Nature-lovers hoping to kick-start a career in conservation in the New Year have been offered the chance of an internship working within the region's wildlife havens.

The RSPB is looking for four people with a passion for conservation who can dedicate a year to volunteering on the charity's nature reserves in East Anglia.

The residential scheme, which begins in March, will offer enthusiastic interns the chance to work against the backdrop of some of the most nature-rich areas in the country.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to spend two consecutive six-month periods working at reserves including Titchwell Marsh on the north Norfolk coast, Strumpshaw Fen near Brundall and Minsmere in north Suffolk.

Interns will be provided with accommodation, training, mentoring, work experience and networking opportunities.

Annie Sadler, volunteer development officer for the RSPB in the East said: 'Over 17,000 people are currently volunteering with the RSPB for wildlife and conservation, giving over one million hours of their time each year.

'But there's plenty of room for more. Why not head the January blues off at the pass by jumping into 2012 with a new purpose and volunteering with the RSPB?'

'Our full-time internships are an amazing opportunity, and there is also a multitude of other ways to help us ensure that there is a viable future for the natural world, no matter how much time or experience you have.'

Paul Stagg, one of 2011's conservation interns, said: 'This internship provides an excellent head start and gave me the opportunity to get involved with all aspects of reserve management – from survey work to land management to people engagement.

'Along the way I always had a supportive team around me, happy to share their knowledge and teach me what they knew. There were countless opportunities to meet people already working in the field, gain the benefit of their experience and learn a wealth of skills.

'The natural world urgently needs passionate, versatile individuals to take on the challenge of protecting it and this is an excellent opportunity to gain the skills and experience you need to do just that.'

?To apply for internships or enquire about volunteering opportunities at the RSPB, contact Annie Sadler on 01603 697504 or annie.sadler@rspb.org.uk.