Falkirk nature reserve volunteer is honoured
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Nina Saunders has won the Community Path Volunteer of the Year at the 2020 Paths for All Volunteer Awards.
The volunteer path warden patrols Bonnyfield Local Nature Reserve every day to ensure the path is clear of obstructions and fit for purpose.
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Hide AdSince Nina began volunteering, over 200 new trees have been planted, with other work carried out including clearing dumped food waste, debris and reporting incidents of wildlife crime.
Nina said: “I was shocked and surprised as I have never received anything like this before - I feel a tremendous sense of appreciation.
“The award win means a lot to me as the nature reserve holds a special place in my heart.”
Nina said volunteering had made a “massive difference” to her life, adding: “I feel more encouraged than ever to keep active and switch off from work whilst at the reserve and enjoy the nature around me.
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Hide Ad“My dog Donna enjoys the reserve as well as there are so many places to explore.
“It is great to hear that I have made a difference to the local area and the wildlife from the people of Falkirk who have been using the path network.
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“Through volunteering I have made new friends and found a new lease of life by getting out into the fresh air enjoying nature so would encourage anyone thinking about it to give it a go!”.
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Hide AdNina was commended at the first ever Paths for All virtual awards ceremony hosted by BBC’s Scotland’s Fiona Stalker this week.
She was among 13 different winners at the 11th annual volunteers awards.
Ian Findlay CBE, chief officer at Paths for All, said: “Getting outside and going for a walk has been even more important than normal over the last few months for our physical and mental wellbeing.
“Volunteers, like Nina have carried out tremendous work and adapted their work during the Covid-19 pandemic to reflect the changing needs of the Scottish public and for that we have to say a massive thank you.