Lesnes Abbey Conservation Volunteers (LACV) is looking for volunteers to help with a wooden fence repairs in Lesnes Abbey Wood on Sunday (mar7). Volunteers will learn how to restore the traditional fencing which protects the wood’s important wildflower enclosures, designated as a site of special scientific interest. Volunteers should meet at the information centre near Lesnes Abbey ruins, off Abbey Road at noon, and work will finish by 3.30pm. Drinks and equipment will be provided but volunteers should wear suitable clothing and bring a packed lunch. Call 0208 3173748 or email jwcannell@yahoo.co.uk

Waterways charity Thames21 needs volunteers to help clear litter from the Thames foreshore in Thamesmead on March 21. Everyone is welcome, and wellingtons, gloves and socks will be provided. people should meet at Merbury Road, Thamesmead, at 9am and work should be finished by 11.30am For details call Solomon Small on 07826 913261.

A bat-inspired womenswear collection hit the catwalk during London Fashion Week. Designer Ada Zanditon teamed up with charity the Bat Conservation Trust to draw attention to the threats facing UK bat populations. Her collection, Echolation, was based on the shapes and movements of the nocturnal animals. Trust chief executive Julia Hanmer said: “Bat populations suffered severe declines throughout the past century. It is great to have the support of the fashion industry.”

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds is urging people to put up their nest boxes as quickly as possible. With the breeding season about to get underway many birds may have already chosen their nesting sites, but some may still take up residence. RSPB’s Tim Webb, said: “If you’ve still got nest boxes sitting in your shed or garage, now is the time to get them out. Ideally nest boxes should go up in autumn for winter shelter followed by breeding, but you could still get birds coming to nest if you put boxes up now.”

The National Trust has launched a festival to celebrate fruit tree blossom as it sweeps across the country. Its Full Bloom project will encourage people to visit fruit orchards as they come into bloom and send in photos of what they see. Kent used to be famous for its spring blossom tours.The festival will start in Cornwall in April and finish in Cumbria in May. It is hoped the festival will also highlight the dire plight of fruit orchards in some regions.