An urgent appeal has been launched to attract more volunteers to help with Pendle’s local nature reserves and parks.
The Friends of Greenfield Local Nature Reserve, also known as the Greenfielder Green Gang, hope to attract more residents to help care for their green environment.
According to Annette Hawkins, secretary of the Friends of Greenfield LNR, community groups across the borough are struggling with a shortage of helpers. They could be forced to close if more people do not offer their services. There are currently only eight members in the Friends of Greenfield LNR.
Mrs Hawkins said: “We want people with a keen interest in the general environment and nature.
“Work mainly involves litter picking, tidying up, and helping with any events that we might put on.
“If we could get three to four more people who would be prepared to turn up regularly it would mean a lot.
“Somebody is going to have to take over eventually, and if it doesn’t happen soon they won’t see what needs to be done.”
The Friends of Greenfield LNR, who are also looking for a new treasurer, meet once a month at the nature reserve, off Whitewalls Drive.
Chairman David Penney added: “What we have found, along with other groups, is that we have older volunteers who are out work, and it is stretching us a bit.
“One of the problems is the reduction of funding from local authorities, which puts more pressure on local voluntary groups.”
The Friends of Greenfield LNR would like to offer facilities to any school or nursery group, who want to make use of a “green classroom”.
Anybody wanting to become treasurer or a volunteer is asked to ring Mrs Hawkins on 07890835363.