Fair helps recruit new volunteers

March 9, 2012 - PRLog -- Around 30 organisations held stalls, demonstrations and talks at the event organised by the New Forest National Park Authority at Lyndhurst Community Centre on Saturday (3 March).

Groups ranging from the Forestry Commission to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and the New Forest Centre turned out to show how volunteers can get involved in their work.

People came from around the New Forest and from towns further afield such as Southampton, Romsey and Salisbury, with many saying they wanted to try new skills, meet new people, improve their fitness and give something back to the community.

Julian Johnson, Chairman of the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘We were delighted at the increased turnout to last year and the enthusiasm of people to get involved. As well as attracting more volunteers, the groups told us it was a great way to network with like-minded organisations and they really welcomed the chance to showcase their work.’

Dr Julian Lewis MP for New Forest East who opened the Volunteer Fair said: ‘This was a hugely successful event, enabling a large number of people to make contact with more than 30 organisations that offered a remarkable range of activities in which to participate. No-one need ever be short of something worthwhile to do as a volunteer in the New Forest.’

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Notes to Editors:

Protect - Enjoy - Prosper

The New Forest National Park Authority’s statutory purposes are to:

■Conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park - Protect
■Promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities – Enjoy.
We also have a duty to:

■Seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities within the Park – Prosper.

The New Forest National Park was designated in March 2005. Its unique landscape has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs which roam free. Majestic woodlands, rare heathland and a spectacular coastline provide fabulous opportunities for quiet recreation, enjoyment and discovery.

Media Contacts:
Karen Evans-McDaid, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans-mcdaid@newforestnpa.gov.uk

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The New Forest National Park lies mainly in south-west Hampshire; it is famous for its stunning landscapes,wildlife,coastline & picturesque villages. It is the eighth national park in England and the first in the south-east to be created for nearly 50yrs.