2nd Feb 2017. Five keen volunteers repositioned the netting around our brassicas, after some intruder (possibly pigeons) had stripped four plants entirely of their leaves and then left them scattered on the ground untasted. If we leave the stalks in place will they be able to re-grow? Yes, at least according to some - although this is a poor start in life for a plant and we may be disappointed.

26 Jan 2016. Planting plans and maintenance were the agenda for eight dedicated volunteers today at the Kitchen Garden in Marble Hill Park. See pics on flickr. In previous years potatoes have been very popular with visitors, who have made donations in return for produce.

Thur 19 Jan 2017. Ruth Walker kindly invited us to visit her allotment at Royal Paddocks Allotments in Hampton Wick and then to Hampton Court Kitchen Garden. See pics on flickr.

Thurs 12 Jan. Determined volunteers waged war on pests today at the Kitchen Garden in Marble Hill Park. Cold weather does not seem to diminish the appetite of slugs for our winter brassicas. To make beer traps we cut letter-box holes in disposable cups, planted them so that the holes are just above ground level and put a few spoonfuls of beer at the bottom to drown any curious slugs. We are advised against using slug pellets

5 Jan 2017. Volunteers climbed up on the roof of the shed to make a temporary cover with tarpaulin. When the weather permits we will need to replace the roof felt, which is letting in water in a couple of places. Six volunteers braved the cold today to help with raking leaves, maintaining tools and to continue the fight against pests.

Tarpaulin protecting the roof of the shed.

From the Cheviot in Northumberland to the South Downs nearly ten per cent of England lies within one of the National Parks, which are said to be 'Britain's breathing spaces.' Everywhere needs a breathing space. In London suburbs a local nature reserve, a community garden or a reclaimed fly-tipping site cannot compete with the Lake District in scale and majesty. But they play an important part in conserving nature and inspiring a love of places - not only the national icons but the places we see and live in every day.

To celebrate the festive season and shut out the chilly weather the Active Environment team got crafty with wintry cards.

Our new volunteer Carmen shared her skills and resources with us to make some beautiful Winter-themed cards for the holidays.

We've seen lots more of Carmen's creative crafts and we hope to see more workshops like this in the near future - watch this space...

Twenty-one volunteers from the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and Kingston University, met on the morning of Saturday the 10th to carry out some vital woodland management at the Kingston Hill campus.

25 Nov 2016, Hill Rise, Richmond. Crowds of children and parents enjoyed a promenade by the Thames and on Hill Rise in Richmond to see the Christmas lights turned on by Maureen Lipman. See pics on flickr.

Art lovers flocked to the Environment Trust's annual Art Auction last Thursday, 17th November, at York House. Photos on flickr. Some artists have contributed works to the charity auction for many years and we are very grateful for their continuing support to the cause of conservation and improving the environment. We are equally delighted to welcome new artists whose works create pleasure for the viewers and much-needed profit for the Trust.