Andover Trees United AGM: A Celebration of Nature, History, and Community
This past Saturday, Andover Trees United (ATU) hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM), a vibrant event that brought together members of the community to reflect on the year’s achievements, connect with nature, and honour the ancient history of the land. Held for the first time at The Cabin, nestled within Harmony Woods, the AGM featured a variety of activities and presentations that highlighted the importance of conservation, youth leadership, and the rich heritage of the area.
The day began with a youth-led walk around Harmony Woods, organized by ATU’s inspiring Youth Team, the Nature in Harmony: Exchange Project (NIHEP). The young leaders guided attendees through the woodland trails, sharing their knowledge of the key features of the woods and pointing out their favourite areas. With each stop, they spoke passionately about their involvement in the project, making clear the deep connection they’ve fostered with this growing community woodland. It was a poignant reminder of how this local treasure is being shaped for future generations through youth engagement.
A special moment of the day came with a presentation by archaeologist Chris Elmer, who addressed the recent discovery of a 5000-year-old Bronze Age ditch uncovered in Harmony Woods. As part of the AGM's homage to the past, Elmer shared the significance of this ancient feature, built by the diggers of millennia ago. "We honour those who came before us by commemorating this extraordinary find before we reinstate the path," Elmer said, marking the occasion before the ditch is carefully filled back in. The archaeological discovery sparked excitement among attendees, and the announcement of a new ditch being uncovered to serve as a permanent feature added an extra layer of anticipation for future explorations.
The AGM also served as an opportunity to reflect on ATU's achievements over the past year. Trustees, volunteers, youth members, and staff took turns speaking about the organisation’s projects, sharing stories of growth, community involvement, and the collective efforts to preserve and expand the woodland. The sense of accomplishment was palpable as the community celebrated its hard work and vision for the future.
In a heart-warming ceremony, ATU also presented the King's Award for Volunteering badges to those who were unable to attend the formal award ceremony in April. The recognition underscored the essential role of volunteers in the organisation's success and ongoing mission to protect the environment. As the awards were distributed, attendees gathered on the veranda of The Cabin to enjoy a beautifully prepared lunch under the September sunshine, reflecting on a successful day of celebration and connection.
This year’s AGM, the first to be held in The Cabin, was a significant moment in ATU’s journey, demonstrating the strength of community collaboration and youth leadership in environmental stewardship. With new archaeological discoveries and an exciting year ahead, Andover Trees United continues to grow as a beacon of hope for conservation and a deeper understanding of the natural and historical heritage in the Andover area.
Key Highlights:
Youth-led tour of Harmony Woods by the ATU Youth Team, part of NIHEP.
Archaeologist Chris Elmer’s tribute to the Bronze Age diggers and discovery of a new ditch.
Celebration of the year’s achievements by ATU trustees, volunteers, and staff.
Presentation of King’s Award for Volunteering badges.
Lunch and reflection at The Cabin in the September sunshine.
As Andover Trees United looks forward to another year of growth and discovery, the AGM was a fitting reminder of the community's shared commitment to both its past and future, rooted in the land of Harmony Woods.