AN environmental group is appealing for more volunteers and questionnaire feedback as they set up a new venture.

Helmsley Green Team, established by Eileen Shearer and Wendy Rushton are a group of residents who are concerned about the effects of climate change on the environment, community and families.

The inspiration came from a Facebook post by the Ryedale Environment Group, who are keen to establish an environmental group in Helmsley.

Eileen and Wendy are circulating an online and paper questionnaire about potential activities and environmental improvements in the town.

“The climate change agenda is something we are very concerned about,” said Eileen.

“We are both grandmas and it gets more and more scary reading about climate change; it makes you realise we have to do something.

“The UK government can do things - businesses and local government too - but we all need to do little bits to achieve that target for 2050.”

“The group is basically us at the moment, however we are waiting to get the surveys back and start prioritising our next step.

“Other places have established environmental groups such Hovingham and Kirkbymoorside, who have been helpful and supportive of setting up this new group. We are really keen to understand people’s views and attract more volunteers.”

Helmsley Green Team is now requesting feedback from residents on environmental activities.

This includes a repair café, food waste recycling, community fridge, plant and herb share, bring and take day and many more.

“We’re looking to see what our community wants, set an agenda and hold a meeting with potential volunteers,” added Wendy.

“We want to say a massive thank you to All Saints Church in Helmsley, who have paid for printing and distributed it to every single household in Helmsley. We couldn’t have done it on our own.”

To complete the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/9Z96V5M

If you’re interested in volunteering, email eileen.shearer@btinternet.com