Invitation to join the special branch

Helpers wanted at woodland project

YOUNG co-ordinators are wanted to help plan and lead a series of community events at Moston Brook.

Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale is looking for volunteers, aged 16-25, to attend weekly meetings in order to plan monthly events for the whole community.

They will also have the opportunity to learn about conservation, woodland management and the biodiversity of the area.

Moston Brook is a green space corridor which links New Moston and Failsworth.

Plans have been developed and funding is being sought to transform the area into a vibrant community woodland.

Sophie Heywood, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Groundwork, said: “We are looking for a group of enthusiastic individuals who want to get involved in their local area.

“They can bring their own skills to the project and develop a variety of new skills and experiences.”

The meetings will be held on week nights, and events are expected to take place every month during a weekend.

These will include orienteering and arts, but young people will be able to have their say in the planning of each event.

Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale, with funding from United Utilities and national volunteering charity ‘v’, are delivering a project in partnership with Oldham Council and Manchester City Council to improve the area of Moston Brook and encourage more people to use it.

Ryan Smith (20), from Oldham, has volunteered.

He said: “Working on Groundwork conservation projects was great fun.

“I met new friends and picked up lots of new skills - definitely worthwhile.”

Anyone aged 16 to 25 and interested in being an event co-ordinator should contact Sophie Heywood on 0161 624 1444, or email:

sophie.heywood@groundwork.org.uk