A NATIONAL park has marked the 40th anniversary of its volunteer service in a special film.

The South Downs Volunteer Ranger Service, created in 1981 - three decades before the National Park was created in 2010, had its history in a film, showcasing the breadth of volunteering in the park.

From coppicing, wildlife surveys, laying hedges to public engagement, the service is one of the cornerstones of conserving the special qualities of the South Downs, growing to around 300 volunteers today.

Kirsty Ferris, a youth ambassador for the National Park from Littlehampton, said: "I found when I was struggling with mental health, volunteering gave me something to look forward to and something I was confident in.

"Coppicing is one of my favourite tasks. I find it really satisfying to come back and see all the wildflowers that have grown because they have more light. Coppicing also helps the hazel dormouse, which is one of my favourite animals in the National Park, because they can get more food and nest space.

“Volunteering is a way to be in nature and you also learn lots of skills you can use in other jobs or hobbies. You’re also helping your local environment in a very direct way.”

The film was released to coincide with International Volunteer Day on December 5.

Keen wildlife photographer Roger Kiernan, from Eastbourne, said: “Most people don’t realise that they don’t need to go to Africa on safari. There’s a whole safari under their feet and in the bush alongside them.

"I take great pleasure in bringing the biodiversity to people’s eye level so they can really understand what insects are like. If you see something and appreciate it, you’re more likely to care for it.

“The work we do as volunteers really does increase the chances of insects flourishing. We clear areas, letting sunlight in and encourage lots of different insects and butterflies into our wonderful chalk grassland.”

Chairman of the South Downs Volunteer Ranger Service Steve Brookman said: "Being able to celebrate 40 years shows shows the level of commitment given by volunteers in the National Park.

"This is a great film, really inspiring, forward looking and inclusive. I am very proud to be chairing the VRS Committee and look forward to supporting the National Park into the future.”

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