The Sutton Ecology Centre celebrated its 20th anniversary on Sunday with an old-fashioned summer fete.
Opened in 1989, the council-run centre has provided a focus for environmental, ecological and wildlife initiatives ever since.
During that time, more than 200 full and part-time members of staff and volunteers have contributed to the success of the centre, including winning London in Bloom twice.
Volunteers and friends have always played a major role, with the Ecology Centre Volunteers and Sutton Nature Conservation Volunteers operating from the office for 20 years.
Volunteers helped create the large pond and marsh area, planted woodland, established spring and summer meadows, developed organic vegetable gardens, and greenhouse and forest gardens.
They also planned and built alternative energy, composting and recycling displays, as well as running innovative environmental education activities.
Thousands of schoolchildren have visited the grounds to attend workshops, explore the environment and learn more about the nature around them.
Councillor Colin Hall, executive member for environment said: “Over the past 20 years, the centre has been at the forefront of the council’s environmental policy, giving a generation of schoolchildren the chance to learn more about the wildlife around them.
“None of it would have been possible without the many volunteers that over the years gave up their weekends and free time to create and maintain the grounds.
“This anniversary is a big thank you to them and all the staff that make the centre what it is today.”
For more information or to volunteer, call the Ecology Centre on 020 8770 5820.
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