A year of mud and hard work at The Deneway

Sophie Atkinson

Youth Action Officer

Down at The Deneway, our youth-led, urban nature reserve, the Youth Rangers have put over 300 hours of work into improving the reserve for wildlife in this past year. These 16-25-year-olds have given up their time to ensure a better future for this reserve, and I am immensely proud of what they have achieved so far.

From building bug hotels and steps, to planting wildflowers and endless removal of brambles, there is no task that they shy away from, and the passion for nature is evident in their commitment to get stuck in, rain or shine. Those who are unable to visit the reserve regularly in person find ways to contribute remotely, writing blogs, creating logos, and drawing up maps. 

During these recent wet winters, the area of the reserve we refer to as ‘base camp’ cannot be described any way other than ‘treacherous quagmire’, and yet the enthusiasm of the Youth Rangers does not wane, if anything they are spurred on by the challenging conditions.

2025 will surely bring more determined young faces down to The Deneway, ready to immerse themselves in this beloved wildlife corridor. If you are aged 16-25 and would like to get involved, please sign up to a taster session via our Eventbrite page: 

You will be rewarded with biscuits, a cup of tea, and a great sense of achievement to take home with you.