SURREY Wildlife Trust is on the hunt for new recruits to join its small army of volunteers. The trust has 120 paid staff, but its ranks are swelled by nearly 2,000 volunteers, who provide almost 10,000 extra ‘people days’ every year.

From teenagers to people in their 80s, all give up their time, skills and energy for free – but get much in return too.

The trust’s Claire Courtier said: “Our enthusiastic conservation volunteers help us carry out wildlife surveys, clear ponds and paths, look after our grazing cattle, thin woodland, remove invasive plant species and lots more.”

Volunteers have been at the heart of success stories for the county’s wildlife – they’ve helped restore vital habitat on Chobham Common, which now boasts a promising breeding population of nightjars and even the rare Dartford warbler.

In the rivers, the trust’s volunteers have been working hard on the Wey and Mole to restore and improve habitats for fish and reduce pollutants.

Claire added: “We simply couldn’t manage without them – they make a massive difference to the work we’re able to carry out to help wildlife in Surrey. But our volunteers gain so much from working with us too and we’d love to see some new faces!”

Research by the WRVS showed people who had donated their time to a good cause showed lower rates of depression later in life.

Working outside also has lots of health benefits - regular exercise in the fresh air is a lot cheaper than the gym.

When Caroline Hayes moved from London to Surrey she decided to join one of the trust’s work parties.

“As soon as I started I was almost addicted,” she said. “The variety of work is great – it’s not all heavy lifting – the people are lovely and I’m learning all the time.”

If you would like to help protect Surrey’s wildlife visit www.surreywildlife trust.org/volunteering