An Andover-based group of volunteers has clocked up more than 16,000 hours of conservation work.

The Anton River Conservation Association (TARCA) was set up by Test Valley Borough Council in 2009 to help with work on the nature reserves.

Since then, hundreds of volunteers from Andover and the surrounding area have worked alongside council staff to help preserve the nature reserves.

They have now completed more than 16,000 hours of conservation work.

The nature reserves include Anton Lakes Local Nature Reserve, Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve, Ox Drove Meadow, Harewood Common and Ladies Walk.

(Image: Test Valley Borough Council) TARCA is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.

Terry Stevens, a long-term member, said: "What we get out of this group is immeasurable: an improved knowledge of all aspects of nature and the environment and a really close group of long-term friends.

"Then there's the knowledge that through TARCA's efforts we have made a great improvement to all the reserves that we all work in."

Ron Davis, a fellow volunteer, said: "The fact that people see us working has helped make people aware of their environments and more people are now litter picking.

"My original reason for joining the group was to do something to make my small part of our precious planet in better condition than we found it for our grandchildren."

Councillor Alison Johnston, portfolio holder for climate emergency and countryside, said: “We would like to thank all TARCA members for their dedication over the past fifteen years and congratulate them on reaching their anniversary milestone."