A recent report from Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has highlighted Scots are losing touch with their natural environment and should spend more time outdoors for the good of their health.
Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate has endorsed this belief and is extending its Volunteer Ranger scheme this autumn to share all the benefits that exercise and fresh air in the great outdoors can bring in.
Mike Cantlay chairman of SNH – the national official conservation agency – highlighted in the media recently his desire for people “get out there” and spend more time in the wilderness.
The team of experienced Rangers at Drumlanrig Castle and County Estate, who maintain the grounds of the 90,000 acre Queensberry Estate, are doing just that and calling out for volunteers to assist them with a host of exciting outdoor projects this autumn.
Green-fingered participants who volunteer at Drumlanrig can assist the Rangers with an array of practical tasks ranging from managing access paths and tracks to building pond platforms and completing conservation surveys.
The biweekly Monday morning sessions are a fantastic opportunity for people to get behind the scenes access to the maintenance of a popular visitor attraction and make a positive contribution to the local area as well as using the natural environment to have a positive impact on their health and wellbeing.
Volunteer Ranger sessions at Drumlanrig will take place from 10.30am – 2.30pm on Monday 11 and 25 September 2017 and Monday 9 and 23 October 2017.
Richard Clarke, Countryside Ranger at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate, said: “Many of us have lost our way in appreciating the countryside and natural environment that’s around us. Our Volunteer Ranger initiative allows people to embrace our beautiful landscape and get an insight into all the benefits of being outdoors.
“We take great pride in our work providing Ranger services across the Estate and we truly love what we do. Our volunteer sessions are a great way to share knowledge and spend time with likeminded people.”
Local couple Simon and Maxine Green have enjoyed the Drumlanrig Volunteer Ranger imitative for two years and are now regular visitors to the Estate as part of the scheme.
Simon said: “Being keen walkers ourselves, volunteering has made us appreciate the work that goes into maintaining the paths and tracks, helping to make the Estate more accessible to others.
“It’s a great way to learn new skills whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of the countryside. You don’t need any experience as the rangers are always keen to pass on their knowledge.
“The Ranger sessions give us a sense of achievement at the end of the day and are a great way to meet new people.”
Richard continued: “The volunteers have a great deal of enthusiasm which is brilliant to see especially when they can see first-hand the contribution they have made to the Estate.
“All are welcome as our sessions are open to all abilities and skill levels.”
To join the Rangers at Drumlanrig this September and October or to find out more, call 01848 331555 or email [email protected].
Visitor season at Drumlanrig is from 10am – 5pm daily through to 30 September with the gardens and playground open until 31 October. The Estate will remain open throughout the year.
Visit www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk for further information and keep track of what’s happening at Drumlanrig via the Facebook page @DrumlanrigCastle.
