Chris and Anita Churchouse, a dedicated couple from Wiltshire, are lending their voices to a national campaign celebrating the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the UK.
Their inspiring story highlights the personal rewards and community impact that volunteering can bring.
Chris, 74, a retired engineer and project management consultant, and Anita, 59, an occupational health professional with a background in nursing and midwifery, are active volunteers with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust.
The Trust is dedicated to restoring the historic waterway that once flowed through the Wiltshire and Berkshire countryside. Since joining the Melksham, Chippenham & Calne branch of the Trust last summer, the couple has immersed themselves in a diverse range of activities.
Their efforts range from hands-on tasks like reed removal and hedge trimming to vital support roles such as crewing tripboats and assisting with IT.
Now, as part of national Volunteers' Week (June 2nd - 8th), Chris and Anita are sharing their experiences to encourage others to get involved.
"We enjoy having a shared hobby and were looking for a cause which would keep us physically and mentally fit while also giving something back to the community," explains Chris.
"I feel that heritage and the environment are critically important and so I wanted to use my time to preserve both.
“A friend introduced us to the local branch of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, and we were immediately impressed by the warm welcome and the shared sense of purpose.
“There were lots of activities available, and since then we’ve filled many hours with conversation and fun. We’ve loved every minute!”
Anita echoes this sentiment: "Volunteering is a great way to meet new friends while bringing the charity closer to its goal of a fully restored canal. Each week is different, and we feel we are learning all the time."
The couple spend much of their time on the canal restoration project at Pewsham Locks, where they've both acquired new skills. Chris now expertly wields a concrete mixer to help build a new bridge, while Anita is trained in operating a strimmer and hedge cutter, also contributing to health and safety activities.
"Everyone has their own story about why they got involved but they’re all so friendly, and there’s a great sense of community spirit – we’ve had lots of laughs," adds Anita.
"In years to come, when people are wandering along the towpath or travelling on their boats, we’ll know that we contributed to their joy. It’s wonderful.”
The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust aims to restore the waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon, connecting Chippenham, Calne, Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.
To learn more about the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust and how you can volunteer, visit www.wbct.org.uk.
Chris and Anita’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the difference individuals can make when they dedicate their time and talents to a worthwhile cause.
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