Meet our volunteers - Trevor

Everybody meet Trevor. Trevor has been giving his time every week since 2018 to care for the trees at Harmony Woods and help protect the biodiversity of Andover. To find out why he does this and what he gains from volunteering with us read on…

Why do you volunteer?

I worked for Southern Water for many years however back in 2018 I took redundancy. I saw an advert in the local newspaper asking people to get involved with the 2018 tree planting fortnight so I called the volunteer line and was invited up to meet everyone and I have never looked back. 

I’m someone who likes to keep busy and I also love working outdoors so volunteering here is a good fit. 

I like working with the younger generation and passing on the knowledge - this is really important to me as nature studies aren’t taught in schools any more as they were when I was younger.

What have you gained from volunteering with Andover Trees United?

I have learned new skills in sustainable woodland management - tree planting, coppicing plus wildflower planting and looking after the allotment in Andover. I have also made new friends and I have a lot of fun!

What would you say to someone who was considering volunteering?

Come up to the woodland for a cuppa and a chat on a Monday workday (or the second Saturday of the month) and if it suits you, get involved! It’s always good to have ‘fresh blood’ and we need more muscle! I would be particularly pleased to see more men involved to rebalance the male v female numbers.

How has life under lockdown been for you?

I have missed the other volunteers’ friendly faces and laughter but I have also enjoyed the peace and tranquility of the woodland in my own neighbourhood. 

Would you like to find out more about volunteering? Please drop us an email to volunteers@andovertrees.org.uk