
If you want to connect with nature and give service to a South Devon charity, volunteers to help plant, restore and care for the trees on the beautiful Sharpham Estate.
Sharpham’s Winter Tree Care Day takes place on Sunday February 7, from 10.30am to 3.30pm and is free.
The focus for this day is to plant new trees repair tree guards on The Great Run – a sweeping vista facing Sharpham House, and a highlight in a landscape thought to have been designed by Capability Brown.
The tree-guards prevent deer, cattle or sheep from eating the bark of newly-planted trees, helping them to a better start.
“The work done on this day helps to ensure the future of our parkland trees,” said Sharpham Trust volunteer coordinator Kate Davy.
“Without our team of volunteers, conservation work on Sharpham Estate would go much slower. This is a day that really highlights the valuable job they do.”
Volunteers on the day will also plant new trees to be enjoyed by future generations as part of the Trust’s Higher Level Stewardship agreement.

The tree-care day will involve a range of tasks: some heavy and some lighter. Participants should bring gloves, boots and suitable clothing.
The Trust will supply a tasty campfire soup round the fire with spiced apple juice – sourced from Sharpham’s orchards of course – to keep volunteers warm and refreshed.
Participants interested in getting involved can just turn up on the day, without booking. “Any help offered will be greatly appreciated,” said Kate.
The day is not suitable for very young children. Before you set out, check the website and our social media for announcements if the weather is terrible.
The team will meet at Sharpham apple orchards directly below Sharpham House. Please park at the back of Sharpham House and walk down to the orchards. The way will be signposted on the day. The Great Run is a steep hill – get in touch if you’ve got mobility issues.
There is more information, including directions on how to get to Sharpham visit the website www.sharphamtrust.org
Each week, a team of volunteers works on the Sharpham Estate, helping to conserve the grounds of this Grade 1-listed Georgian mansion on the banks of the River Dart.
“It’s a win-win if you volunteer with us,” said Kate. “They gain experience in working on the land and in this special landscape, they gain gardening and tree knowledge and they stay fitter too.”
Find out more about volunteering at The Sharpham Trust throughout the year by emailing their Volunteers Co-ordinator on volunteer@sharphamtrust.org or on the phone at 01803 731803.
(from a press release)
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