FORRABURY and Min­ster Parochial Church Council (PCC) were delighted to welcome Volunteers from the British Trust for Conservation (BTC) to Minster Church­yard at the weekend.

A cancellation from elsewhere had created the opportunity, at very short notice, for the volunteers to visit Minster for the first time and complete tasks suggested by the PCC.

Together with Natural England, the PCC are working to maintain and enhance this Site of Special Scientific Interest, with its important habitat for bats, for future generations to enjoy.

The PCC were very grateful that prompt permission was given by Natural England for the tasks to be done over the weekend. They included clearing the ground gutters, clearing the edges of footpaths, erecting a handrail by the steps down into the valley and erecting a fence to prevent people accidentally falling over the edge where a steep drop into the water could have proved very dangerous for the unwary.

The PCC were also very lucky to have guidance from Robert Moor from the Living Churchyard Project, which operates in the Diocese of Truro.

Churchwarden Mrs Jennie Coles said: "It is very easy to be overwhelmed by all that has to be done to keep two churches, both listed buildings, and the graveyards around them, available and in a fit state for present as well as future generations to use and enjoy. There are always financial issues regarding repair and maintenance and occasionally we lack people power and even energy and enthusiasm to get things done.

"Minster, in particular, is a very special place for the local community, and also receives very many visitors every year. A visit from these enthusiastic volunteers this weekend has given us not just practical help, but enthused us to carry on with our plan for Minster Churchyard."

Mrs Coles added: "We want to maintain the site and also attract more people so that they too may enjoy the tranquillity and variety of flora and fauna in this special place. We enjoyed having the volunteers with us and thank them for giving up their free weekend and dare to hope that they may visit us again soon.

"In the meantime we welcome all offers of help to maintain our buildings and churchyards for all to enjoy. If you would like to offer time, skills or ideas, or would like to join with BTC Volunteers on their next visit, please do contact either of the churchwardens and be assured of a very warm welcome!"