I’ve been a Dales Volunteer since 2001 and can honestly say that I have enjoyed every minute of my volunteering career.
I joined the volunteers to “give something back” to an area I have known since the early 1970s. What I wasn’t anticipating was the journey I was about to undertake in terms of the diverse activities I would take part in, the new skills I would learn, and the good friends I would make along the way.
As well as the usual tasks, such as footpath repairs and parish path surveys, other activities have included assisting the BBC in programme-making (Walking with Cavemen) and helicopter lifts on the Three Peaks. The skills learnt have included drystone walling and leading walks, and numerous other practical skills too many to mention.
Probably the highlight for me has been meeting and working alongside like-minded people (volunteers and members of staff) who all wish to contribute towards looking after and making the Yorkshire Dales the special place it is. It is great to work with positive people and make a positive contribution.
For more information on how to become a volunteer and get involved in looking after this special landscape, go to www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ways-to-volunteer
