This two-year project, ending in October 2020, raised awareness around these cherished natural areas with the hope of creating new commons in future. It was made possible thanks to a £58,800 National Lottery grant.

Volunteers received training to help them collect wildlife records and research the commons’ history. This research explored their past usage and archaeological features such as burial mounds and wartime pill boxes.

“If we didn’t enjoy it we wouldn’t do it, it’s been great fun. It feels good to be working with others to improve the state of wildlife in Norfolk."

Roger, volunteer

Roger and Jenny Jones have been volunteering with Norfolk Wildlife Trust for over 30 years. They contributed over 1,000 volunteer hours between them in 2019. Together they have surveyed the commons, compiled lists of plants and wildlife and helped share their expertise with other volunteers.

Roger said, “If we didn’t enjoy it we wouldn’t do it, it’s been great fun. It feels good to be working with others to improve the state of wildlife in Norfolk."

Their advice for anyone wanting to get involved in volunteering is to start by attending events and talking to people. You’ll meet those with similar interests, learn new skills and have the chance to pass these on to others.