I retired from my job as a busy Town Clerk in June and had always planned to do some practical volunteering for Dorset Wildlife Trust. I am a keen organic/wildlife gardener and was hoping my skills might be of use. I am very supportive of Dorset Wildlife Trust’s work and wanted to contribute in some small way. 
 
My plans were initially scotched as volunteering was on hold during lockdown, but I was delighted in September when Dorset Wildlife Trust asked me to join the volunteer group at Kingcombe. It has been great to get outside, make new friends and socialise after being mainly stuck at home, and my skills are being used. Being involved with a project like this really does lift my mood which is so important during the pandemic - I know lots of people have struggled with the restrictions. I am also learning lots from the Dorset Wildlife Trust staff and other volunteers, and taking ideas home. 

The second lockdown was a blow and I, like many others, found it difficult, especially as it was through the winter months. It was been amazing to be back in April, getting together with the staff and other volunteers. It is so great to be around others again and having lots of great conversation whilst we work. We have so many plans at Kingcombe I am certainly going to busy there for a while!