The 20-year partnership between Network Rail and The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) is being celebrated.

The group cares for the Great Stukeley Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) at Huntingdon, which they first got involved with on 17th May 2006.

The work was celebrated with a special event, with volunteers gathering to recognise the efforts made to protect the local wildlife.

Back in 2006, just seven volunteers and a staff member began clearing the overgrown grass and bramble, and in 2026, the area is flourishing.

Over the last 20 years, there have been 1,266 volunteer days, equating to 26,000 hours of conservation efforts.

Through careful management, huge areas of the 35-hectare cutting have been reshaped into a thriving chalk grassland habitat, with an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife, including:

• 46 species of butterflies and moths
• A range of reptiles and insects, e.g. grass snake, common lizards and great green bush crickets.
• Larger wildlife, including kestrels and foxes
• Over 70 species of flowering plants

“The success of Great Stukeley shows what long-term partnership working can achieve. For 20 years, volunteers have played a vital role in protecting this special habitat on our land. Their sustained dedication has helped create a thriving environment for wildlife beside one of the country’s busiest rail routes.”

Rob Woodger, infrastructure maintenance protection co-ordinator, Network Rail

“We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved here over the past two decades. From that first small group in 2006 to the hundreds of volunteers who have contributed since, this site is a testament to what sustained conservation effort can deliver. We’re excited to celebrate with everyone who has been part of the journey and to welcome new volunteers in the years ahead.”

Katherine Miskin, TCV team leader