BRENTWOOD Council has thanked the local branch of Wilko for their donations of gardening supplies that will benefit community projects and the dedicated volunteers who tend them.

A van load of supplies were delivered that will be used by the council’s Countryside Management Volunteers and volunteers from the Sensory Garden and The Cemetery Gates horticultural project.

Whatever the weather, every Wednesday the Countryside Management Volunteers get together to undertake practical work, often on one of the Council's countryside sites.

These include the many Local Nature Reserves, Commons and Sites of Special Scientific Interest, which can be found around the borough. Examples of some of the tasks they do include path clearing, litter picking, clearing invasive trees, tackling conservation issues, helping maintain habitats and managing the woodlands.

The Mayor of Brentwood, Councillor Vicky Davies, said: “I really enjoyed meeting all the volunteers who make such a difference to the green spaces lots of us enjoy. Their enthusiasm and dedication was clear to see. It’s thanks to them that our parks and sites are well-maintained and are welcoming places for everyone.

“So I am grateful for the generous donation from Wilko’s which enables the volunteers to continue doing their fantastic work. I would also like to thank Wilko’s for starting to stock the Council’s free orange recycling bags in their store.”

Tim Phillimore, store manager of the Wilko store in The Bay Tree Centre, said: “We were really keen to donate as much gardening equipment as we could to the fantastic volunteers from the sensory garden, Cemetery Gates and the Countryside Volunteers. They do so much to keep our town looking beautiful, so we were happy to help.

“We donated a van full of gardening equipment including forks, fencing and wood stain – we are sure it will all be put to good use.

“Any other charities or community groups in the area wanting a donation are welcome to come to the store and ask about our Helping Hands scheme, as it allows us to donate Wilko products to worthy causes in Brentwood.”

If you would like to get involved with the Countryside Management Volunteers, please contact Tracey Lynch on 01277 312701. No experience is needed, all tools and equipment are provided as well as tea/coffee and biscuits. You just being a packed lunch and wear suitable clothes and safety footwear.