On Wednesday 3rd February, we took a group of 15 students to Trentham Monkey Forest for a day of volunteering.
The event proved to be really popular, and all our volunteer places were filled in no time! Despite a snowy start here at Keele, our student volunteers stayed committed, wrapping up warm for a day outside.
We started off the morning with a tour of the forest, learning all about the endangered monkeys and how they live and interact together. The staff invited us to watch feeding time, where we got to see lots of the monkeys up close, including some adorable little baby monkeys!
After learning all about the forest we got stuck in with our volunteering, helping to get the site ready for its Spring re-opening while the monkeys played around us. Over the course of the afternoon we:
- Cleared the forest paths
- Swept leaves
- Collected wood
- Unpacked food
- Set out tables and chairs for the café
Everyone had a great time, the students took so many photos of the monkeys and are really keen to volunteer there again.
Sue Wiper, Director at Trentham Monkey Forest, said ‘It was great to have Keele volunteers here at Monkey Forest today. It gave them a good insight into the behind the season work that goes on to ensure the forest and surrounding areas are well maintained. They also got a good look at the forests endangered Barbary macaque residents! Thanks for all your help we really appreciate it’.
Following the success of the day, plans are being made to run another Keele Makes a Difference day with Trentham Monkey Forest next year. In the meantime, why not get involved with our next Make a Difference days and check out our upcoming events for Student Volunteer Week here.
