Dedication of Derby Parks Volunteers recognised with award

A group of volunteer.

A team of hard-working volunteers that helps look after Derby’s parks and green spaces has won an award.

Derby Parks Volunteers received the Green Award at BBC Radio Derby’s recent Make a Difference Awards.

The awards recognise individuals and groups who improve lives in Derbyshire and East Staffordshire. The Green Award is awarded for making where we live more environmentally friendly and better for nature.

Derby Parks Volunteers working closely with Derby City Council’s Parks team, carrying out conservation work and improvements to parks and green spaces across the city to ensure they’re preserved for the public to enjoy.

The group was nominated by the Council’s Parks team in recognition of their passion and dedication to improving parks for people and nature. Members contribute countless hours to the conservation and enhancement of Derby’s treasured green spaces.

Volunteers undertake essential tasks such as path and step building, pond restoration, wildflower meadow management, hedge laying, woodland care, and tree planting. Their tireless efforts have not only improved biodiversity and ecological resilience but also created accessible, beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.

They also work closely with two schools for children with special educational needs, providing hands-on learning experiences that foster a deeper connection to nature.

Peter Marshall, chair of Derby Parks Volunteers, said on behalf of the group: “We were delighted to win this award and we’d like to thank the Council’s Derby Parks team for nominating us.

“We look upon it as recognition of the of the many and varied tasks we’ve completed in Derby parks and green spaces over the years. It backs up the thanks, good wishes and compliments we receive from the public and park users whilst we are out on task, and we’ll continue our works with renewed vigour. We’d love more like-minded people to join us.”

Derby Parks Volunteers welcome new members to join them – volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new friends, get out in the fresh air, learn new skills or get a bit more exercise. For more information go to the Derby Parks Volunteers website or check out the group’s Facebook page.