Meet our volunteers: David Phillips

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, 30 January 2025
Meet our volunteers: David Phillips
David Phillips © Julia Hoare

By Julia Hoare

Volunteer Coordinator 

I caught up with volunteer David Phillips to find out a bit more about him.

How long have you been volunteering with us?

Initially for about four years on the reserves with the Ebernoe Hit Squad, then Old Lodge, then latterly at Woods Mill. I had a break for a few years after a hip replacement. Since 2023, I’ve provided admin support/data entry for the Membership, Conservation (WildCall) and now Fundraising teams at Woods Mill.

Why did you get involved?

I wanted to do something positive after my retirement and have always been interested in the countryside and wildlife. Initially I wanted to be outdoors, undertaking physical activities (while I still could!) and experiencing and developing my understanding of nature’s many and varied offerings on Trust's reserves. 

After the new hip, it became more a question of keeping my brain active (endless games for seniors on my iPad only go so far!).  In all my volunteering work for the Trust, the camaraderie has been an additional attraction. Becoming a volunteer is pretty easy - just check out this page.

Which groups have you volunteered with?

Originally the Ebernoe Hit Squad for about a year then Old Lodge for several years, then latterly at Woods Mill. All the places I’ve volunteered at have been extremely welcoming.

What have you particularly enjoyed? 

A lot of banter at Old Lodge. I particularly enjoyed inspecting bird boxes at the reserve. Seeing a sunbathing Adder was a highlight. I learnt a lot from the group leader Martin Wilkinson, who could seemingly hear a Redstart a mile away! I’ve also enjoyed the office environment at Woods Mill – all the staff are really friendly. I’m constantly amused by the paradox in people’s eating habits: everyone has a really healthy lunch, but also tucks in to the sundry biscuits, cakes and chocolates which are donated frequently in the kitchen area.

I learnt a lot about flora and fauna on the reserves and my computer skills have improved greatly at Woods Mill with the considerable help of Jamie Warren and Charlotte Owen.

What are the benefits to you of volunteering?

Fitness while working on the reserves and a full-frontal assault on dementia (I hope!) while offering administrative support at Woods Mill.

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