People do Volunteering for lots of different reasons. For some it’s to get involved in a project they’re passionate about. For others it’s the sense of community and camaraderie. And for others still, it’s about making tangible progress towards a common goal.

Whatever the reason, Volunteering on a local project gives a chance to step away from our increasingly screen-based lives and do something mindful and genuinely productive.  

That’s my experience, anyway. I’ve been part of the Volunteer work party down at the Paulton and Timsbury basins for a couple of years now. We meet each week and work to protect and preserve the historic canal – acting with the expressed permission and consent of the landowners.

If you’ve been down there recently, you’ll see its looking very smart and a haven for wildlife – the canal is teeming with highly vocal frogs, loads of butterflies, ducklings, a pair of swans and we recently saw an otter. This is a great reflection on the water quality and testament to the work we did in winter to remove reeds that were choking off the water flow.

If you’re interested in getting involved, please do – we’re always looking for volunteers. Spending time in fresh air and natural surroundings while making new friends can be a real joy. We meet at the Paulton dry dock (What 3 words = feared.hacking.expectant) at 10am each Sunday and finish up around 1pm. No skills or kit needed. Just bring a pair of boots, a snack and a smile. For further details contact workparty_paulton@coalcanal.com