Written by Amber, one of our young volunteers: "I’ve only been living in the area for a short time, so joining the youth rangers seemed like a brilliant chance to meet new people and get involved with wildlife and conservation work. I wasn't wrong. From the first day I knew it was going to be a great and rewarding experience. The Youth Ranger’s work is based at Flatford, which is such a beautiful area, just bursting with wildlife throughout the year. It’s always lovely in the RSPB gardens during lunch as we can watch all the different birds and insects and smell the beautiful plants. We’ve worked in different areas around the lovely Flatford, doing various tasks including building and lighting a bonfire! What has been really beneficial is learning things you wouldn't have learnt in a classroom, such as building a deadwood fence or how each plant benefits different aspects of wildlife in its own way, including those pesky stinging nettles! Another great thing about the Youth Rangers is that everything we do around Flatford benefits everyone; people who visit the mill, people who work there and even the wildlife that lives there. It’s always great to see people walking along a path you have helped clear or using the sign you have installed. I personally feel that the best thing about the youth rangers is the people. Everyone you work with is so passionate about everything they do for the area so you can't help but share their enthusiasm as you work alongside them. Going home from the day always leaves you feeling that it was time very well spent. Knowing you've helped local wildlife and given something back to the community rather than staying at home watching TV always boosts your mood. And so ends the day in the life of a youth ranger. "