Community Group Registration Number: 16133171
Our Story
The Calder Conservation Group CIC started as a small team of passionate locals who wanted to
protect and restore the River Calder and its surrounding environment.
As our work expanded, we became a Community Interest Group (CIC) to enhance our impact.
Today, we run practical conservation projects,
community clean-ups, and educational initiatives to help create a sustainable future for our Rivers and Waterways.
Meet the Team
Lee Murrell - Founder and Chairman
My journey started as a boy, fishing gave me a love of not just the river systems but the habitats and wildlife surrounding and using them.
Fast forward to my 30s and I was quite a prolific barbel angler who was regularly bringing bags of waste and pollutants home with him.
At this point I was involved with the RACG, a group of likeminded anglers with a passion to make a difference to our waterways. The group unfortunately didn’t succeed for a variety of reasons.
Lengthy conversations however with one of the committee members lead me on a journey of thinking at great length about not only what goes into our waterways, but what, if anything can be done about it and how I could raise awareness and interest around the subject.
This I what drove me to set up The Calder Conservation Group, I believe that the power of community and collaboration is where the change happens!
If we can get enough likeminded community members talking about the issues that face not just our waterways, but our planet, together we can raise awareness, foster a sense of community pride and empower the next generation of conservationists!
Christophe Pelhate 24/07/1968-04/01/2024
Toni Holmes - Safeguarding Officer
A little about me.......
I'm an independent person who loves helping others and our environment. If you had asked me when I was leaving London in 2017 what would I be doing in Halifax, I would never had said volunteering my time for good causes.
I have so far volunteered for Victim Support, Marie Curie and the Better Living Team. I now have the following voluntary roles - Unmasked Mental Health, facilitating craft groups and peer to peer support hubs. I have a role as a Community Governor for Park Lane Academy. I co-ordinate Siddal Community Clean Up litter picks, and Wandering Womble litter picks and most recently, I got on board with The Calder Conservation Group CIC helping clean up our River Calder and Hebble Brook. In 2023 I was nominated for the Green Award for the BBC Leeds Make A Difference Awards and Calderdale Councils Our Stars Awards becoming a finalist in both. I have also been interviewed live on BBC Radio Leeds recently.
I thoroughly enjoy being part of the community and I attend all the Ward Forums and make sure councillors know what we need.
I do have health issues but getting out there helps improve my physical health and is fantastic for my Mental Health. Everyone should get out there.
I do like football but I left my team in London and although I can never see me moving back, I still support them.
Fiona Whittlestone - Secretary
My background is office management and hospitality and I've enjoyed many years of happiness within this area. I "fell" into Health and Safety, and 5 years ago I gained the NEBOSH Diploma in Health, Safety, Environmental and Quality Management - which is by far my greatest
academic achievement.
Unfortunately my health declined rapidly and I decided to move away from the corporate world and I now work as a Self Employed Advisor to companies across West Yorkshire.
As my children have grown and become more self sufficient, I have the time to become more involved in Conservation. I've always been an animal lover, and I've enjoyed and been on awe of natures beauty walking the lengths and breadth of our absolutely stunning national parks, rivers, and waterways along with my canine companion.
However, over the years I've seen a rapid decline in our native flora (plant life) and fauna (animal life) and a massive increase in the levels of pollution, litter, and of course non native flora which damages the delicate ecosystems.
Hearing about The Calder Conservation Group CIC via Social Media, and after attending an event I decided that I'd like to get more involved - so hear I am.
Being a part of the group is so rewarding, working with such a diverse group of like minded people gives not only a great sense of achievement but it helps massively with my mental health and wellbeing.
Join Our Mission
Be Part of Our Conservation Efforts
Together, we can enhance the environment and advocate for healthier rivers.
Get involved in local cleanups, restoration projects, and educational programs.
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