Jon spent his career as an outdoor pursuits instructor,
biology teacher and then with schools developing the first interactive
whiteboards. Teaching, promoting
knowledge and experiences and enjoying the natural world has always meant a lot
to him. When he retired, he became a
keen green woodworker as part of an established group of ‘Bodgers’ near
Bristol. “I was hooked on green woodwork and when we moved to the Forest of
Dean two years ago I planned to continue my hobby at home. Then I met Scott Baine [from the Rewild
Project who leads the Foresters’ Forest Newleaf Project at Kensley Sheds] and realised that I could continue
with my ‘bodging’ as part of a group, and continue to share my interests with
others!” Jon said. “They needed help
with the pole-lathes so I went to Kensley Sheds and did that. I started supporting Newleaf participants to
try lathing. It has worked out great really, I didn’t really have space at home
and it is much more enjoyable to be out in the Forest!”
Jon explained that he really feels part of the team at
Kensley Sheds: “I’m always doing lots of jobs around the place as a volunteer;
building shelters, improving the site, finishing jobs off, chopping wood. It great
to be part of developing the site and plans for the future. I feel that I’m part of an organisation;
there is a real sense of belonging and ownership.”
Jon also met Melanie Getgood (project leader for Worcester
Walk Community Project) at the same time and started to volunteer at Worcester
Walk. “I’ve volunteered on nature reserves
before so liked the idea of Worcester Walk Community Project. I like being
outside and active so it was ideal. I don’t want to sit around and twiddle my
thumbs in my retirement!” Said Jon. “At
Worcester Walk I’ve been involved in group working parties, bracken bashing,
planting new hedges and improving old ones.” He said. “I’ve also helped support regular visits to
the site from Coalway Primary School and the Fire Cadets who come to volunteer
one evening a week. It’s been great,
active stuff to support and fantastic to see the young ones involved!”
Volunteering for Newleaf and Worcester Walk has been a happy
combination for Jon. “The social aspect
is great. It all gets you out of the house and seeing people. I really enjoy the laughs and camaraderie.
We’ve had some great jokes about pole lathing….” Chuckled Jon. “It’s been nice to find activities that carry
on my existing interests too.” He said.
Jon is enthusiastic about future plans at Kensley Sheds and
at Worcester Walk. “We’re introducing ‘Woody
Wednesdays’ on a weekly basis for people to come along and do some green
woodwork with Newleaf. There will also
be lots to do at Worcester Walk as the weather improves. I’m excited about the prospect of moving
forward with the hedges, pond and orchard. Seeing the fruit trees going in is going to be very pleasing.” He said.