Archived press release

Date Published: 17/12/07

Andrew Grant, Chief Executive of Aylesbury Vale District Council, put on his work boots and gloves this week to join Vale Countryside Volunteers on their latest conservation task day. The chief executive joined a group of 10 volunteers to carry o...

Andrew Grant, Chief Executive of Aylesbury Vale District Council, put on his work boots and gloves this week to join Vale Countryside Volunteers on their latest conservation task day.

The chief executive joined a group of 10 volunteers to carry out improvement works in Akeley Wood as part of the district council’s management plan for the area.

Mr Grant, who has a forestry degree, was keen to see at first hand the practical conservation work undertaken by the volunteers on behalf of AVDC to help improve the countryside in the Vale.

During the event he helped to remove invasive, non-native species of trees, such as rhododendron and laurel. The removal of these species will allow more light into the ancient woodland to enable flowers such as primroses and bluebell to flourish, which will attract more wildlife to the area.

Mr Grant said: “It was a great thrill to be able to see at first hand how the Vale Countryside Volunteers are working with the district council to help improve our countryside. I was really impressed with all the conservation work that is going on to protect and enhance Akeley Wood and the volunteers should be congratulated on their efforts. We have a rich woodland heritage in Aylesbury Vale and by working in partnership on schemes like this we can make sure that it is not only maintained, but that we leave a richer heritage for the future.”

The Vale Countryside Volunteers help care for and protect the wildlife and countryside of Aylesbury Vale by carrying out practical conservation work and related activities using traditional crafts and skills. Their work includes habitat restoration and creation to help endangered plants and animals such as the black poplar, barn owl and water vole.

Tony Talbot, Chairman of Vale Countryside Volunteers, said: “It was great to be joined by the chief executive of AVDC, he really mucked in and seemed to enjoy himself. Conservation work is a very good way to keep fit and to have a positive impact on your natural environment. It is amazing what you can achieve with enough people and a little effort. We are always looking for more volunteers so please get in touch if you are interested.”

Through the local wildlife sites programme, AVDC surveys and identifies the most ecologically important woodlands and grasslands in the Vale, such as Akeley Wood. Management advice and sources of funding are then provided to landowners in order to encourage them to implement the actions necessary to increase their wildlife value. Often the work to improve the biodiversity of the woodlands can then be undertaken by volunteer groups such as Vale Countryside Volunteers.

For further information about the Vale Countryside Volunteers, or to find out more about the local wildlife sites programme, please call 01296 427972 or email mdodds@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk