Faith in action: caring for creation on Horsell Common

A wonderful group of 14 volunteers came together on Horsell Common, united by a shared commitment to caring for the natural world. The group reflected the rich diversity of our local faith communities, including participants from Muslim, Baha’i, Methodist, United Reformed Church (URC), Catholic and Quaker backgrounds. This spirit of collaboration beautifully demonstrated how people of different faiths and beliefs can work side by side for the common good.

The focus of the day was to help restore and protect the heather, an essential habitat on the common. Volunteers worked enthusiastically to clear saplings, gorse and brambles that, if left unmanaged, would prevent the heather from thriving. This practical conservation effort plays a vital role in supporting local wildlife, including important bird species such as the Nightjar and the Dartford Warbler, as well as butterflies and other insects that depend on healthy heathland.
There was a real sense of joy and purpose throughout the morning. Laughter, teamwork and fresh air made the hard work enjoyable, and participants found it deeply rewarding to see the immediate impact of their efforts. One of the most encouraging aspects of these regular sessions is returning to previously cleared areas and witnessing the heather flourishing once again, a visible reminder that small, consistent actions truly make a difference.

Events like these reflect the core values of Woking People of Faith and align closely with SMEF’s commitment to community cohesion, environmental responsibility and collective action. By bringing people together across faiths to care for our shared environment, the project not only protects local biodiversity but also strengthens relationships and builds a sense of shared stewardship for the world around us.

We are grateful to all the volunteers who gave their time and energy, and we look forward to many more sunny days of faith-inspired environmental action in the months ahead.