The work of Somerset Wildlife Trust across the county and the public’s love of wildlife bridged the generation gap today as the organisation said thank you to two wonderful fundraisers: Netta Joan Morgan celebrated her 100th birthday in February and, instead of accepting any gifts at her birthday party, she and her family elected to ask guests to make a donation to Somerset Wildlife Trust which amounted to £215. The Morgan family has farmed 190 acres of land on the Somerset Levels since 1939, and their donation is a wonderful way to celebrate their love of their land, the landscape, and recognition of the work that the Trust does to support Somerset’s wildlife and wild places.
Cross off a zero and we come to 10 year old Hetty Walter, who entrepreneurially and single-handedly decided one day to raise money for the Trust by bundling up some kindling twigs with pretty ribbon and building herself a mobile shop, and then selling the bundles from her driveway to passers by – all in one day! Hetty raised £12 for Somerset Wildlife Trust – and also rather neatly demonstrated that a passion for the outdoors, a love of wildlife and fundraising isn’t just for grown ups.
Katie Arber, Director of Fundraising said, “Having fundraisers at either end of the age spectrum is a perfect demonstration that wildlife, and a connection to nature and the outdoors, brings pleasure to everyone, whatever their age. We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of ways to get involved with wildlife and our work to support it, whether it’s fundraising for us, volunteering, joining in with events, or visiting and enjoying our nature reserves – there is something for everyone. We are delighted with both Netta and Hetty’s kind contributions.”
Supported by our members, Somerset Wildlife Trust has been protecting vulnerable wildlife and preserving wild places for over 50 years. We manage over 1,700 hectares of nature reserves, provide wildlife-friendly land management advice, campaign and educate to make sure Somerset remains one of the most wildlife-rich places in the UK. Our vision for the county is ‘an environment rich in wildlife for everyone.’ The Trust is one of 47 in the UK – together they make up the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts (RSWT) www.somersetwildlife.org