This group came into being in 2001 although some members had worked for the Trust previously.  They meet on Wednesdays throughout the year and undertake a variety of tasks on the National Trust land.  Usually it is repairing dry-stone walls, or “gapping”, but they also repair footpaths, plant trees, lead walks and help with open days. 

Recently they raised well over £20,000 to build the outdoor classroom/shelter in the small Garth next to Buckden car park.  This is to be used by visiting school parties who can book talks from Trust staff, as an information centre, a bus shelter for the Dales bus, as a hikers’ shelter and picnic site.  Picnic tables are also provided outside with one adapted for disabled people.  The group hope that the Garth will become a useful facility for the village and attractive to visitors. (see photos)

Buckden Garth, as it is called, was formally opened by Paul Hudson from BBC Look North on Wednesday 18^th April 2007 at 11.30 and then handed over to The National Trust.

Recently the group won The National Trust’s Marsh Heritage Award as the most innovative and enterprising volunteer group in the country.  The award will be presented to the group on 5^th June 2007 during National Volunteer Week and it is expected that the presentation will be in Buckden.  Teams from the volunteer groups which came second and third will also attend as will senior staff from The National Trust.  The first prize is £1,500 to spend on the estate. 

For more information contact Peter Katic at Peter.Katic@nationaltrust.org.uk