Thursday 4 June 2026
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Helping with the WCCP family events is a great way to explore some of the incredible sites that the partnership manages and meet some of children that will be our future environmentalists.

Within the last year I have been a scary person during Halloween at Fort Burgoyne, a facilitator of clay crafts at the Melanie Wrigley Hub, a river dipper on the Dour and an insect gatherer at Cowgate Cemetery. This is all in addition to my ranger duties at Samphire Hoe.

Without exception, the children and their carers have been an inspiration to work with. Most of the children have huge enthusiasm for the tasks and often have a surprising amount of knowledge and new ideas. They leave the events inspired to do more and with an appreciation of the community and surroundings in which they live.

The sites at which the events are held are quite different. Some are full of history and amazing stories of lives past; some are in parts of Dover that families may not usually access, and some are overlooked by families passing by. Without the children realising, each site has its own web of wildlife that the ranger explains and explores. The children are amazed and have fun learning. I have certainly learnt a lot about Dover and its animals and plants and there are still so many places for me to visit!

These events are important for children growing up in this world. They are well-organised and resourced, and it is fun to help and learn along with the children and other adults.

Interested in volunteering with us? Find our more on our volunteer webpage.

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Anne Everett
WCCP volunteer