Llangollen lecturer raises £10,000 for the RSPB

Dec 22 2008 By Andy Davies

A COLLEGE lecturer from Llangollen has raised over £10,000 for charity in her spare time.

Anne Cook, who lives in Llangollen, started her volunteering work three years ago for RSPB Cymru, after seeing the pin badge boxes in a Tourist Information Centre whilst on holiday in Derbyshire.

After re-marrying and moving to Llangollen in 2000, the Wrexham Yale College lecturer found placing the pin badge boxes provided the opportunity to make new friends and create a whole new social circle.

Anne said: "Moving to the area meant that I didn't know many people, but after three years of placing the pin badge boxes I know most people in town now. Doing volunteering work like this is a great way to meet new people and get out and about."

She now has 10 boxes under her supervision and spends around an hour a week collecting the money and ensuring the boxes are kept well stocked.

"I never go out of my way to check the boxes, they are all in places where I go on a weekly basis, so its no extra effort for me at all," she said.

The boxes are located in local cafes, hardware shops and restaurants in Llangollen town, and locals now recognise Anne from her association with them. She explains: "People call me the 'bird lady' and are always keen to tell me what new birds they've seen recently and where."

Volunteering for RSPB Cymru has been a positive experience for Anne, and given her life a new focus and interest. She also volunteers her time at RSPB events in her local area, such as Save the Birds Day and Big Garden Birdwatch.

"Looking after the pin badge boxes lead to my developing a keen interest in birds and wildlife, and by looking after the pin badge boxes I feel as though I'm doing my bit to help - to think I've raised so much money is unbelievable!" added Anne.

RSPB Cymru are currently recruiting for more pin badge volunteers. For more information call Lizzie Vine on 02920 353 009 or e-mail elizabeth.vine@rspb.org.uk