Suffolk Wildlife Trust is on the hunt for volunteers to offer their services to a range of activities at Redgrave and Lopham Fen, near Diss, and Knettishall Heath, near Thetford.

Eastern Daily Press: Redgrave and Lopham Fen is home to the rare fen raft spider.Redgrave and Lopham Fen is home to the rare fen raft spider. (Image: Archant)

People are able to help out with educational activities and survey work, or for those who may like something a bit more physical, there are work parties to help with the practical management on the reserves.

Samantha Gay, people and wildlife ranger at Knettishall Heath, said: 'The work parties take place every week and it depends on the season as to what we do. During the winter it is woodland management, tree felling and shrub clearance. And during the summer it is more maintenance work and fencing repair.

'Some people like the social side and like to meet new people and some like the fresh air and exercise. It's good because people are doing something positive. If they do it all year round then they can see the results.

'We have two 430-acre sites where people can have access to all areas and get to see places which the general public don't have access too.'

Volunteers can also help with educational visits from schools and can be trained to lead the groups.

Deborah Key, education officer at Redgrave and Lopham Fen, said: 'We're looking for people with a passion for wildlife but you don't need to know anything in particular, just people who want to help children and have a good time.

'We also have events throughout the year that we need help with, including a plant sale and Inspired By Nature, an art exhibition.'

There are no commitments, so people are able to volunteer to do as many days as they want.

John Hill has volunteered for five years and takes people on guided tours of Redgrave and Lopham Fen every first Saturday of the month.

He was hoping someone may volunteer to help with his guided walk.

He said: 'There is so much to see here, it is just brilliant. We have barn owls, lizards and the rare fen raft spider. I love seeing the surprise of people when you talk about how things were thousands of years ago.

'It's a very special place and in the spring and summer it is just wonderful.

'We couldn't manage without volunteers. This place is alive not just with creatures but with people.'

For more information, call Deborah Key on 01379 688333 or Samantha Gay on 07717 156601.