Norman Gate Lodge Help Andover Children Connect with Nature at Harmony Woods

Andover Trees United has received a generous donation from Norman Gate Masons to support its work helping children and young people learn outdoors, connect with nature and care for Harmony Woods.

The donation was presented by long-standing ATU supporter and volunteer Carl Bakes, who, together with his wife Naomi, has supported the charity for many years. Carl was also closely involved in the early stages of The Cabin build, helping create a practical base for outdoor learning, volunteering and community activity at Harmony Woods.

Members of Norman Gate Lodge in Andover have seen first-hand the value that charities such as Andover Trees United bring to the local community. Through their own volunteering and community involvement, they recognise the important role ATU plays in giving young people practical opportunities to understand, enjoy and protect the natural world.

The donation will help Andover Trees United continue its outdoor learning, youth engagement and conservation work, supporting children, young people, volunteers and the wider community to learn about and care for local nature.

Carl Bakes, speaking on behalf of Norman Gate Masons, said: “Normangate Masons are pleased to support Andover Trees United and the important work it does for the Andover community. ATU has created something very special at Harmony Woods, which we appreciate as a unique community nature space where young people, families, volunteers and local organisations can come together, learn about the natural world and help protect it. As local volunteers ourselves, we understand the value of community-focused projects and the difference they can make. We are delighted to support ATU and hope this donation helps its work continue to grow.”

Liz Scrace, Treasurer of Andover Trees United, said: “We are extremely grateful to Norman Gate Masons, and to Carl and Naomi, for their generous support. Donations such as this make a real difference and help us continue our work with young people, volunteers and the wider community. Carl and Naomi have been valued supporters and volunteers for many years, so it is particularly special to receive this donation through Norman Gate Masons. Their support will help us continue developing Harmony Woods as a place where people can learn, volunteer, explore and connect with nature.”

Andover Trees United is a volunteer-led community charity based in Andover. It works with schools, volunteers, families, businesses and local partners to care for nature, improve biodiversity and give people of all ages opportunities to learn through practical action.

The charity’s work includes outdoor learning, woodland care, wildflower restoration, youth nature activities, community volunteering and events at Harmony Woods and The Diamond Wood.