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People wearing gloves pulling plants out of the ground in a park
Community Volunteering: Himalayan Balsam Bashing

Give native flowers a helping hand by joining us on this task to remove Himalayan Balsam from the parkland.

Loughton Valley Park

Sat 31 May 2025
Various times
Suitable for all ages
Free

Join the Community Bash!  Are you ready to battle the invader?

The time has come to roll up your sleeves and take on the notorious Himalayan Balsam! This pretty but pesky plant is taking over our riversides, and we need your help to put it in its place.

Mission: Protect our native plants and wildlife from this greedy invader.

Your role: Pull it, bash it, and restore nature's balance! Whether you're a seasoned balsam basher or a complete beginner, we’d love to have you on the team. No experience is necessary. All you need is some elbow grease and a love of the outdoors.

When:
Saturday 31st May from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Wednesday 4th June from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 13:00 PM to 15:00 PM

Meeting locations Look out for a large purple Parks Trust flag!

What you need:

  • Wellies
  • Gardening gloves if you prefer to bring your own
  • Suitable jacket
  • Drink and a snack

Car parking:

  • Lodge Lake car park is a 10 min walk south along the lake and under the underpass. What3Words location automate.frog.rinse.
  • The Sports Pavilion or Loughton Manor First School off Linceslade Grove, Loughton. Parking is available on both sides of the road and is a 5-minute walk away from the event. What3Words location flopped.tadpole.spends.
  • Parking is also available on nearby roads, please park your car considerately. We recommend walking to the event where possible.

We welcome participants of all ages on this activity but young people attending must be supervised at all times. 

You don't have to stay for the full session - so please come along for as long as you'd like.

Any questions you may have about this event or volunteering with The Parks Trust please email us on volunteering@theparktrust.com.

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