Our team highlight of the week came when working on a reserve last Saturday. James went to help at Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve, and not only did he get four memberships – which were matched by reserve staff –he also helped make one visitors’ day.
A gentleman using crutches was overwhelmed when he was told that he could use one of our reserve scooters for free. He returned to staff at the end of his visit, shaking their hands and explaining that he’s not able to get out of the house much, so the scooter made a huge difference to his experience.
We will be at Newport Wetlands National Nature reserve again on Saturday 22 and Saturday 29 March. It’s well worth a visit with lots to do on site. There is a lovely visitor centre with a shop and cafe and children’s play area as well as walking routes and bird hides.
Next week, the South Wales community team will also be visiting Abergavenny High Street with our bright green marquee opposite Greggs – come and have a chat with us and see how you can help to give nature a home! If you’re looking for a quiet Sunday out of the house on Mothers Day, come to the Norwegian Church. They have a cafe and lots of interesting displays to enjoy, they will also be running a Recycled Art Workshop with Caroline Deacon from 11am – 4pm.
There are also rather exciting things happening here at Wales HQ, with a new starter joining us to help cover events in Mid Wales. This means that we will have two staff working in the area and will allow us to cover more events. We also have two of the team returning into post in South Wales, doubling our numbers all round!
Next week in Mid Wales we will be setting up in the reception area at the IBERS Aberystwyth University building near Penrhyncoch on Wednesday 26 and Friday 28 March. We’re hoping to speak with lots of people who we hope to inspire to support us in a number of ways – either by becoming members, or signing up to do some volunteer work with us.