Share

Malvern Qigong group raises £500 for Upton Warren appeal

The Moors at Upton Warren by Mike Perry

A Malvern Qigong group raised £500 to help the Trust make emergency repairs to the lapwing hide at Upton Warren.

Malvern Qigong in the Park Group was set up a year ago by local writer and teacher Chantal Heaven with the aim of offering local people a chance to enjoy practising the ancient Chinese art form and light exercise whilst experiencing the beauty of nature.

On the Group’s first meeting on February 18th, 2022, Storm Eunice struck and the local radio advised people not to go outdoors.  Two people braved the high winds and attended, practising in a sheltered spot. The group has since grown to a core of ten committed members who meet in all weathers in the Park Bandstand.

Chantal explained “In setting up the group, I wanted to raise awareness of the need to protect the natural world. I decided to raise money for Worcestershire Wildlife Trust because of the wonderful and essential work they do protecting and managing local natural spaces, such as at their Knapp and Papermill nature reserve near Alfrick.

Mike Perry receiving a cheque from Chantal Heaven

Mike Perry receiving a cheque from Chantal Heaven

“When I heard about the Trust’s appeal to raise funds to repair the lapwing bird hide at their Christopher Cadbury Wetland Reserve based at Upton Warren, near Bromsgrove, it was an easy decision to donate £500 to the appeal for the people of Worcestershire to continue experiencing the beauty of watching lapwing, bitterns, water rail and many more species there.”

Mike Perry, Head of Resources at Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, commented “The Trust helps to protect wildlife and wild spaces across Worcestershire, for example through our network of nature reserves that now covers over 12.5 square kilometres.  This is an area equivalent to the footprint of the Malvern Hills. 

"Our nature reserve at Upton Warren is particularly special as it has both saltwater and freshwater pools, and it is one of the premier bird watching locations in the region. Huge thanks to Chantal and those attending classes for this wonderful donation.”

The Qigong in the Park group will continue to raise funds for the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.

The group meets every Friday Morning at the Bandstand in Priory Park at 9.30 am come rain or shine and involves a blend of Spring Forest Qigong and traditional Qigong forms. The movements are easily learnt and consist of gentle, free-flowing forms and breathing exercises. The aim is to quieten the mind and allow the spirit to connect with the natural world. New members are always welcome.

Related news