The volunteers were repairing a willow tunnel that is much enjoyed by visiting schoolchildren, by planting new willow and weaving it to make a living tunnel for environmental play. There are two more events planned for December - on Thursday 11th December you can take part in a day of hedge planting and tree planting, and on Wednesday 17th December you can help us to rebuild a dry stone wall. Anyone who would like to get involved should book a place by emailing skelton@btcv.org.uk or ringing 0113 2430815. The events are free of charge, include a free lunch, and are aimed at 16-25 year olds.
The events are supported by GreenPrints, a partnership of five of the country's leading not-for-profit organisations that provides funding and support for over 700 projects, dedicated to helping young people improve green spaces in our communities. SITA Trust, v the youth volunteering charity, BTCV, The Wildlife Trusts and the BBC's Breathing Places campaign, have joined forces to run one of the most integrated, supportive and intuitive funding programmes in the country.
"Children really enjoy running through our willow tunnel, so the work we've done today will be used by thousands of kids this year", said Project Officer Toby Roberts. "The volunteers have made a really positive contribution to Skelton Grange's wildlife gardens, as well as getting out in the fresh air and learning some new practical skills".
Skelton Grange Environment Centre is an innovative environmental education project in South Leeds, which is a partnership between BTCV and National Grid with support from Leeds City Council. It offers a range of fun, hands-on environmental education activities for schoolchildren which aim to encourage an interest in the natural world.