Meet our volunteers - Karen

Every year, many people from Andover and the surrounding villages give their time to volunteer with Andover Trees. These people help with all sorts of tasks across the organisation and without them, the planting and the ongoing care of Harmony Woods wouldn’t be possible.

We would like to introduce you to these people and show our appreciation for all the time, energy and love they commit to the project.

First up is Karen who has been a regular volunteer with us since 2012 which was the first year of planting. Karen is committed to volunteer when there are children planting with us so she is a regular face throughout planting fortnight in November and other projects and events when schools are involved. She has also been to some of the schools to help with their nursery beds however she is often here for other occasions if extra hands needed.

What attracted you to Andover Trees?

I was an assistant Guider and wanted an opportunity for the Guides to plant trees. The motto that year was 'Plant a tree for the Jubilee'. When I made enquiries with TVBC I was put in touch with Wendy and discovered this wonderful project was starting. I helped build some of the nursery beds in the schools and have planted every year since. 

What do you gain from volunteering with Andover Trees?

 I've always loved nature and am concerned about climate change so it's good to be involved in something positive. I like the opportunity to be involved with children especially since I have retired from teaching at Andover College.

It's been amazing to have seen a bare very muddy field turned into a wildlife habitat. The presence of barn owls and kestrels shows there is a good food chain and there are always skylarks singing. In the summer there are swallows skimming about the pond. It's a lovely place to be and many of the children express their delight too.

What’s the funniest thing you have experienced whilst volunteering for ATU?

The funniest thing was when I was asked to do the demonstration of planting a tree. We were a bit short of time so rather than starting afresh I dug up the tree which had been used for a demonstration with the first group and then proceeded with the talk. Then I was giving out trees to be planted and these two boys told me they had already planted their tree. On further enquiry I discovered they had copied me exactly i.e. they had dug up a tree that was already there and replanted it! 

What would you say to someone who was considering volunteering?

It's great fun. It’s a worthwhile project which has even won awards. You can get involved in different ways, and every week if you want, or just at the main events like I do. You get to know lots of people. Harmony Woods is for the community and a lovely place to be.

If you are inspired by Karen’s story and would like to find out more about volunteering with us please get in touch volunteers@andovertrees.org.uk