The Essex Wildlife Trust hold numerous conservation work parties throughout the year. Details can be obtained from the trust headquarters at Abbots Hall farm Gt Wigborough Tel 01621 862960.

Stour Valley Volunteers - Meet every Wednesday fortnight to undertake practical conservation work in the Stour Valley. Volunteers include retired people, part-time workers and those seeking employment skills - new members always welcome. Recent projects range from; planting wildflowers and painting gates and fences at Hornestreet Field, to clearing a pond at Daws Hall, and felling hybrid poplars obscuring views featured in Constable's paintings. Minibus pick up at 9.30am at the lorry park adjacent to Waitrose Supermarket in Sudbury, return at 3.30pm. For more information, please contact the Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley Project. Tel. 01473 264263. Email: dedhamvale.project@et.suffolkcc.gov.uk