This is the first entry of our volunteer spotlight series - an opportunity for us to celebrate our amazing volunteers and their generous work to support NWT.
I am fast approaching 70 years of age. I am a retired Probate Practitioner. My interests include singing (with a large choir), swimming, walking and photography (landscape and wildlife). I suppose I should also add Rugby Union and beer!
Whilst working, I was introduced to NWT by a visit from Jane Ryan (NWT staff member) and invited on a solicitor's event, which included a boat trip. I was born and bred in Norfolk and have lived here most of my life. I quickly realised that work was getting in the way of what was most important and the need to help those who were furthering the interests of the planet and my home county in particular. On those rare occasions when NWT's legacy team were having problems with executors of an estate, I offered informal advice towards a solution. I also encouraged my employers to take out corporate membership. I promised Jane that I would volunteer once I had retired.
Peter Callf
I first volunteered with the events team, travelling to festivals etc., throughout Norfolk, doing lots of talking and helping with children's activities. I also helped with such activities at Cley visitor centre. The first Covid lockdown put an end to that, so I offered to help at visitor centres as soon as they were able to reopen. Events are starting to happen again, so I am doing both. I have also started to assist with the distribution of stock to the visitor centres, when needed and now have regular weekly shifts at Ranworth and Hickling visitor centres, helping at Cley when needed. I most enjoy talking to people and opening their eyes to the beauty that they can find on the reserves. It's wonderful being out in the open air, far from the madding crowd!
As Shakespeare said, "How full of briars is the work-a-day world!". As apt today as it was over 400 years ago! When I was working in a stressful environment, the reserves were my sanctuary. They were better than any drug or therapy to me, a person who had suffered with depression since childhood. Volunteering gives me much joy and long periods of fresh air and calm.
Taking part in activities that further the aims of the Trust gives me purpose in the autumn of my life. It helps keep brain and body active and, being an extroverted introvert, something to get up for! I have met many people through volunteering and the social events that come with it (including Sir David Attenborough, though I doubt if he'll remember my name) and they have enriched my life and that of my wife Manda. I see NWT as one big happy family, with a common purpose.
My path through academia was disappointingly short. Every day at NWT is a learning day and I have probably learnt more since volunteering than I ever did at school. I make the point of listening to those that know and they add much to my life. I am also a member of FOND (Friends Of Norfolk Dialect) and being part of NWT helps me with my campaign to give the humble tadpole a more appropriate name. The Norfolk dialect name is POLLYWIGGLE!
Main image: NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes by Elizabeth Dack