VOLUNTEER Robert Yates was part of a team who spruced up heathland at Shotover Country Park.

The 63-year-old joined a team to clear gorse and birch seedlings from Mary Sadler’s Field on Thursday to get the land ready to be mown, which will allow heather to flourish and improve the conditions for the animals that live there.

Mr Yates from Oxford said he enjoys volunteering for a variety of organisations and said: “I meet lots and lots of lovely people.

“It is rewarding in different ways.”

Councillor Mark Lygo, Oxford City Council’s board member for Parks, Sport and Events, said: “These days are great for local residents to work together and improve facilities within their community.”