My first experience as a conservation volunteer was when it was known as BTCV – and there were opportunities for residential holidays . At that time I was training to be a nurse and for one of my holidays I went away with a group in Chorley where we built a fence . Many years later I travelled in Australia and joined the Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers planting trees . More recently – after reducing my nursing hours I found the BAT north while cycling through Old Redding in Harrow . I spent many Mondays enjoying working outdoors with them . The combination of a passion for conservation and nature and all my nursing skills has lead me to taking up a new role at Lauriston Farm in Essex . I feel so lucky !!
Written by Mary Rive
Mary has been involved with TCV since 1985