MORE than 12,000 hours of time was given by volunteers at Natural Basingstoke in 2024 alone who dedicate their time to are for the borough’s green spaces.
Picking up the Green Champion Place to be Proud of Award, the audience at Audley’s Wood heard how Natural Basingstoke carries out vital work to restore wildflower meadows, manage ponds, and protect ancient woodlands.
The team has made conservation genuinely accessible – to children, retirees, and anyone who wants to feel connected to the natural environment on their doorstep.
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It runs educational days for young people, gives older residents a reason to get outside and be part of something, and builds real social connection in the process.
Judges noted that Natural Basingstoke doesn't just do this work itself — it actively helps other groups get started and keeps supporting them along the way.
It shares tools, knowledge and expertise so that every hour of volunteer time, across the whole borough, goes further.
Accepting the award for Natural Basingstoke, Gillian Smallman said: “We had more than 200 volunteers last year working in nature conservation. We helped children understand nature. We acted as advocates for nature and make sure our environment in Basingstoke is appropriate for wildlife and birds.”
The team also highlighted its involvement in Basingstoke Green Week taking place in the town centre.
The other category finalists were:
Inspero WellnessNWellies
Martin Heath
Vanessa Richards
