Love Your TPT – Celebrating Roz and the Worsbrough Volunteers 

As part of #LoveYourTPT month, we’re once again celebrating the people who help make the Trans Pennine Trail such a special place. This time, we’re focusing on Roz, and the brilliant team of volunteers who care for the Worsbrough section of the Trail.  

Back in 2025, we had the privilege of joining Roz and her team out on the Trail on a sunny day — lending a hand, sharing stories, and getting to know the volunteers first-hand. Spending time with the group made it clear just how much care, pride and thought goes into everything they do, and how deeply connected they feel to their stretch of the Trail. 

Caring for the Trail, one project at a time
The Worsbrough volunteers meet once a month, planning their work well in advance. Rather than tackling lots of small jobs, the group prefers to focus on larger projects, seeing them through from start to finish so they can really see — and feel — the difference their efforts make. 

From cleaning signs and removing graffiti, to cutting back vegetation, improving sightlines and planning future planting projects, their work often happens quietly in the background. But the impact is clear to anyone walking, cycling, wheeling or horse riding along the route – a Trail that feels welcoming, safe and well cared for. 

“We like to have big projects to do – rather than just doing a little bit here and there, we really focus on something, get it done from start to finish, and then you can see the difference.” – A Worsbrough volunteer 

The group brings together a wide mix of skills and experience. Some volunteers share horticultural knowledge, advising on when and where to plant wildflower seeds, while others focus on practical tasks such as cutting back overhanging branches to improve safety along the route. Everyone plays a part. 

Transforming spaces into places people love
One of the most rewarding parts of the group’s work has been transforming neglected areas of the Trail into welcoming community spaces. Working closely with Barnsley Council Countryside rangers, volunteers have helped install benches and picnic tables, planted fruit trees, and created places where people can stop, rest and enjoy the surroundings. 

“When you walk past and see people sat at the picnic bench enjoying it – it’s amazing.” – Roger E, Worsbrough volunteer 

Even where ground conditions have been challenging, the group has persevered – improving soil, planting carefully and giving these spaces the best possible chance to thrive for years to come. 

What the Trail gives back
For many volunteers, their connection to the Trans Pennine Trail started long before they picked up tools. They walk it, cycle it, and enjoy it themselves. Volunteering is a way to give something back to a place that has given them so much, while also staying active and connected — particularly after retirement. 

“I use the Trail, and I feel everybody has a responsibility to give something back.” –  A Worsbrough volunteer 

The social side of volunteering is just as important as the practical work. The group speaks warmly about the friendships they’ve built, the shared sense of purpose, and the simple enjoyment of working together outdoors. Spending time on the Trail – listening to birdsong, being surrounded by green spaces and sharing a brew – brings real benefits for mental wellbeing, offering calm, positivity and a reason to get out of the house.  

What really stood out during our time on the Trail was how much the Trail gives back to the volunteers too, supporting wellbeing through connection, fresh air and the joy of working together in a place they care deeply about. 

“It gets you out of the house, it’s good for your mental wellbeing, and you meet fabulous people.”  – A Worsbrough volunteer 

Why Roz matters
At the heart of it all is Roz. She plays a central role in keeping the group going — coordinating dates, liaising with the council, and making sure everyone knows where and when to meet. Her organisation and enthusiasm help turn goodwill into real, lasting improvements along the Trail, and make volunteering welcoming and accessible for everyone involved. 

Hear more from Roz and the team
We recently recorded a podcast with Roz and the team, where they talk about the work they do, and why volunteering on the Trans Pennine Trail matters so much. It’s a fascinating and uplifting listen that really brings the team’s efforts to life. 

👉 You can listen now on Spotify, Acast, and access a version with subtitles, on YouTube.  

As we celebrate #LoveYourTPT, stories like this remind us why the Trail means so much to so many people — not just as a route, but as a shared space shaped by care, community and commitment. 

Thank you to Roz, and to every volunteer who helps keep the Trans Pennine Trail thriving. 💚 

Hannah | TPT Senior Development Officer
Date: 20th February, 2026

         
Mandy Loach                Hannah Beaumont     Robert Drummond