Friends of Bartley Park recognised with civic award from Totton and Eling Town Council
VOLUNTEERS have been acknowledged for their efforts to improve a popular New Forest nature spot.
The Friends of Bartley Park, founded in 2020, spend their time improving the appearance and biodiversity of the land between West Totton and Ashurst Bridge.
Working parties regularly involve tidying and litter picking the land, which is owned by Totton and Eling Town Council, and putting up bird and bat boxes. An orchard of fruit trees was also previously planted, alongside over 1,000 bulbs, and most recently a wild play area was built by volunteers for children and benches were installed, thanks to grants.
The group was set up by David and Teresa Young, who wanted to improve the neglected park and create a nicer environment for locals to enjoy. Teresa told the A&T David was “very proud” to accept the award on behalf of all the volunteers “who have worked so hard to improve the environment [and] increase the biodiversity for the wildlife, local residents and visitors”.
She added: “As a family we are so very proud of David for all his hard work, which sometimes isn't seen; talking with council staff, councillors, and other agencies to get the funding to continue the work started in 2020.”
They were handed the civic award at a recent meeting of Totton and Eling Town Council by chair, Cllr Caroline Rackham, with David thanking the group’s volunteers and supporters for their efforts.
She told the A&T: “The Friends of Bartley Park have worked hard to improve the park, creating and managing habitats in a way which benefits both wildlife and the community. The group has also been friendly and welcoming to anyone who wants to help and this award is definitely well deserved.”
From 3rd April the group, sponsored by Totton-based Eight Wealth Management, is running a photography competition to promote the park and encourage volunteers to join.
Entrants must take a photo that relates to the park, which can be black and white or colour. There are two age categories; under 18s and adults. Entries must be submitted by 2nd May, and those shortlisted will be displayed at Eight Wealth Management’s offices in Commercial Road for a week between 6th May and 9th May.
A spokesperson for Eight Wealth Management said: “The Friends of Bartley Park do an incredible job of maintaining and promoting this cherished green space, making it a welcoming place for everyone to enjoy.
“Through this photography competition, they encourage people of all ages to engage with nature, capture special moments, and share their unique perspectives.
“We look forward to seeing the inspiring images that local people create and celebrating the talent within our community.”
Pictures can be submitted in person at the company’s offices or via its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/eightwealthmanagement
