Shrewsbury Town Council’s Countryside Team welcomed volunteers to Monkmoor River Ground on Friday 28 November for a community effort focused on removing hundreds of tree guards that were installed around young trees in 2021.
The guards were originally placed around newly planted tree whips to help establish a thriving hedgerow and wildlife corridor. Over the last four years, this planting has supported pollinators such as bees and butterflies, created shelter for small mammals, and enhanced biodiversity in an area bordering farmland. Trenches dug beneath the hedges also helped with natural water collection, contributing to reduced localised flooding. For neighbouring farmland, established hedgerows bring additional benefits including reduced wind speed, protection for crops, and decreased soil erosion.
This was the second tree-guard removal volunteer day of the year, following a successful session at nearby Monkmoor Meadows in March.
Joining local volunteers were five staff members from the Shrewsbury branch of Hickory’s Smokehouse, who took part, as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to community engagement.
David Cator, General Manager at Hickory’s Smokehouse Shrewsbury, said:
“We were really pleased to have the opportunity to support this event. It’s great to get out into the community and help protect and enhance local green spaces. We’re already looking forward to getting involved in more volunteering activities like this in the future.”
Countryside Ranger Adam Clifford expressed his gratitude to all who took part and reflected on the progress made since the initial planting effort.
Adam Clifford, Countryside Ranger for Shrewsbury Town Council, said:
“It’s fantastic to see how well these hedgerows have taken since we planted the tree whips a few years ago—especially considering the challenges we faced at the time with ground conditions and maintaining moisture levels. The volunteers have done an incredible job removing guards now the trees are established, and their support makes a huge difference to the long-term management of these sites.”
The event also welcomed The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Alex Wagner, who joined volunteers in the field.
The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Alex Wagner, said:
“It was brilliant to be part of the team. These hedgerows are now flourishing and will benefit both wildlife and the local community for decades to come. I’m grateful to everyone who gave their time to support this important work.”
Shrewsbury Town Council will continue to run public volunteering days over the coming months, providing opportunities for residents, community groups, and businesses to get involved in hands-on conservation projects.
For more information on future events, please visit:
https://www.shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk/volunteer-with-us/