VOLUNTEERS who saved the Smithills Estate from the Winter Hill moorland fire have scooped a national award.
The Smithills Estate volunteers received the Woodland Trust's Juniper Award, at a ceremony at Kelham Hall and Country Park in front of dozens of guests — recognising their work caring for the land, as well as their efforts to halt the flames spreading from Winter Hill in July.
When the blaze broke out the volunteers stationed themselves around the Smithills site, helping to transport materials down narrow lanes and watching for the spread of flames — without which the damage could be much worse.
Sarah Shaw, volunteer journey officer for the Woodland Trust, said: “Our volunteers are the backbone of what we do at the Trust. Without their efforts and time, we could not achieve half of what we have. Thanks to them, the UK is a greener place and we continue to thrive as well."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel