Volunteer Voices
Graham – Barkway Parish Paths Partnership representative
I became the P3 volunteer for Barkway in 2001. In the following years, I and a variable number of local volunteers have been involved in a number of projects, ranging from the installation of waymarkers and benches, to the production of our own Parish map board.
One of the rewards of being a volunteer is to see the immediate results of one’s efforts. As a group, we have joined in with CMS practical conservation volunteer sessions in the Parish on a number of occasions, most notably repairing a flight of steps and clearing half a mile of undergrowth to expose the route of a permissive path. Breaks for lunch with sandwiches and the billy can brewing are all part of the camaraderie!
Two of us volunteers from Barkway attended First Aid courses, and a seminar on map and leaflet production. We’ve since planned and produced our own Parish map board, and with further funding we have completed the production of a walks leaflet.
We have a good relationship with local landowners and successes have been the re-instatement of a long defunct footpath, the introduction of several kissing gates, and a new large bridge over a stream.
With CMS involvement and encouragement, we have found the funds to involve a group of village volunteers to improve drainage, and the discovery and improvement of an orchid site now flourishing well.
Working within P3 has enabled me to be out in the fresh air with fellow volunteers, on worthwhile and locally appreciated projects, establishing new friendships, and making a mark. In conclusion, I would say to any Parish not yet involved in P3 to get volunteering!