During Volunteers Week, I met with local charities at an event organised by Hambleden Parish Council in Frieth Village Hall. Did you know that more than half of the UK population volunteers at least once a year?
I was impressed by the passion and diligence of the volunteers. At the Lady Ryder Memorial Garden, volunteers give up their time and skills to help vulnerable people in our community to enjoy the outdoors, while the Frieth Natural History Society and the Butterfly Conservation Trust focus on improving the local environment. It was inspiring to see Frieth School pupils and Community Speedwatch working together to improve road safety, and I will continue to back their campaign.
Poppy aged 10, “It’s important for the environment be clean so animals don’t get caught in rubbish and their habitats damaged.”
Andy Chanter from Frieth Natural History Society said: “We were extremely impressed with Emma and her team. They were lovely and prepared to give time and listen while being genuinely interested in the concerns of the villagers and the effort locals are putting in to caring for the village.”
Mr Gosling, Headteacher of Frieth Church of England Primary School said: “I couldn’t be prouder of our school Eco Council. Their enthusiasm and leadership remind us that caring for our planet starts with the small choices we make every day. Protecting the environment isn’t just important for the future but something we all have a responsibility to act on right now.”