Staying out for the summer

Date published: 11 September 2011

Teenage volunteers have been having the Summer of a Lifetime in a project run by Bury Ranger Service.

The rangers, with Greater Manchester Youth Network (GMYN), carried out archaeological excavation work at the site of Tottington Printworks, in the Kirklees Valley Local Nature Reserve.

They were joined by 12 young people aged 16 who volunteered their services as part of the Summer of a Lifetime National Citizen Service programme.

The idea was to overcome various challenges and develop skills such as team-working, leadership, communication and decision-making, as well having fun and making new friends. On completing the programme, they will receive an award in recognition for their achievements.

Anna Cocker, ranger for Tottington, said: “It has been a pleasure to support this exciting project. The young people were really enthusiastic in taking part in practical conservation work as well as learning about their local environment and heritage.”