Sustainability stories - Leyburn LM

Janet Quilley, Leyburn LM

Since October 2009, three members of Leyburn LQM have been involved in setting up a transition group, Transition Richmond Yorkshire (TRY). The primary focus has been awareness raising. We think it is important to value and develop the links between existing local community groups, rather than seeming to evangelise with an exclusive message about climate change e.g. local environmental protection, fairtrade, shop local initiatives etc. We started with a very successful film showing in the local cinema (charging normal prices) and we have held several talks during the year. Our main awareness raising activity has been a thought-provoking and continually changing window display, by courtesy of a sympathetic local grocer. Topics have included keeping warm in winter; composting tips; bicycle use; school students looking to the future; foraging and jam making; fairtrade linked with shop local (being aware of labelling and where things come from), plastics and recycling.

A very active ‘Growing Food Together’ subgroup has evolved, which is identifying and bringing into use waste council-owned and other land. (It’s quite a challenge to convince and then work with the local authorities to get this going.) Pruning and care of local fruit trees and demonstrating apple pressing and juicing in the market place have been other activities. We recognise the value of being involved with the local council and related organisations. Some of us attend the meetings of the council’s Green Living Task Group, so that we can feed in ideas and make links e.g. we are contributing to the planning of an Eco week, involving local businesses and schools; it will also see the launch of an arts group involving local musicians and artists.

We’d love to hear the story of you or your meeting too. Just email sunnivat@quaker.org.uk and tell us about it.