Which organisation do you volunteer for?
The RSPB

What sort of voluntary work do you do, and where?
I work with Becky Clews, a senior officer working on the RSPB Aren't Welsh Birds Brilliant! project. My volunteer base is at the Conwy RSPB Reserve but we travel to venues and events throughout North Wales.

I also tow the society's Mobile Hide to events from which we show passers-by the birds which can be seen in their neighbourhood.

How did you get started?
My children, Emily aged 9 and Rebecca aged 5, developed an interest in birds following a RSPB presentation at their school. After much pestering from them, we went to the Conwy reserve to look at local birds and their environment. Following a couple of visits, I became interested, bought a pair of binoculars and the rest, as they say, is history!

How long have you been a volunteer?
Almost 12 months.

Are there any special skills you need to be a volunteer?
I think it depends on the organisation and the role a person is carrying out. I have to be able to tow a trailer and set it up, in addition to that I am rapidly trying to improve my bird identification skills as people often ask testing questions!

I think there is only one main skill that is required for any voluntary work - the willingness to give something new a try.

How many hours a week/month do you give?
I have worked a number of weekends to go to events and attended a couple of weekday training courses but it is very much down to the individual.

What are the best and worst things about being a volunteer?
Doing something very different from what I do as a career. I have never had any experiences of working in conservation before and it has opened my eyes to the environmental issues which face us all. Once you become involved, other related opportunities often come up, for example I have assisted in maintenance at Malltraeth Marsh and wardening at the little tern colony in Gronant. You also meet new people and consequently develop a new circle of friends. As for the worst things....none so far!

How can others get involved?
Give Becky Clews a ring on 01492 562 163. She will be happy to have an informal chat to let any potential volunteers know more. It's great, give it a go!