A group of our councillors showed that they’re not afraid to muck in as they helped the Council’s Urban Rangers Team to install a new sleeper bridge in Tile Hill Wood! During a volunteers day in the woods councillors Lepoidevin, Male and Ridley joined volunteers and helped to clear brambles and undergrowth to set up a new pathway and improve accessibility.
Designated as a site of special scientific interest and a local nature reserve, the site is home to 69.92 acres of deciduous and coniferous woodland with examples of Norway Spruce, European Larch and Hazel coppice, together with Sycamore, Oak, Spruce, Birch, Chestnut, Ash and Pine.
Speaking after the volunteers day event Cllr Julia Lepoidevin said; “At the volunteer day I helped the rangers’ team who are rebuilding a pathway with sleepers. I really enjoyed helping to clear the area which will improve access to the woods for everyone. Volunteer days are a great way to have a laugh - and it helps you to keep fit while you’re doing it! My message to everyone would be just come and join us!”
Fellow woodlands ward councillor, Cllr Pete Male said; “I’d like to thank the urban rangers and the volunteers who helped with this project. This was a fantastic experience for me to be part of and a great way to support our local community. This bridge will improve access to these fantastic woods and it shows that we can achieve great things when the community pulls together. I’d encourage everyone to get involved – there really is something for everyone!”
Commenting on the day, Cllr Gary Ridley said; “Tile Hill Wood is a real asset to the whole community and it’s great to see everyone pitching in at a volunteer’s day. There’s nothing like a bit of fresh air and exercise to make you feel better and we got both of those here! It was a really fun experience and I’d encourage everyone to get involved and make a difference for our community.”
The urban rangers hold regular volunteer days in Woodlands ward and across the city. They’ve undertaken a range of projects from community clean up events to installing bird boxes with school children.
To find out more about Volunteer Days please call 02476 833633 select option 3 and ask to speak to an Urban Ranger or email [email protected]