WILDLIFE trust members can once again take advantage of a free will writing service with leading solicitors next month.

Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT), the county's largest conservation charity, has teamed up with a network of solicitors to provide the service for its 25,000+ members throughout October.

The free service is for members hoping to make a will or update an existing one. They will also be given the option to leave a gift to the charity which says it relies on 25 per cent of funding for its vital conservation work to be given through wills.

The will writing initiative was developed seven years ago to raise awareness of how important this type of fundraising is and what a significant part it plays in conserving Dorset’s valuable wildlife.

Solicitors taking part in the scheme in Dorset are Battens, Humphries Kirk, Coles Miller, Kitson & Trotman and Ellis Jones.

Naomi Dyer, head of private client from Battens Solicitors in Sherborne, said: "Battens are delighted to be taking part in the free will scheme at DWT, as part of our ongoing support of the charity.

"It is fantastic to see people using this opportunity to tackle a job which they shouldn’t, but often do, put off and also to see the benefit to DWT in the process."

DWT’s fundraising officer, Clare Busby said: "Dorset Wildlife Trust is delighted to be offering the free will service to our members for the seventh year running.

"Donations through a gift in a Will play an ever-increasing part in how we fund our nature reserves across Dorset. Those that do decide to use the free Will writing service to leave a gift, however large or small, can take great comfort in knowing their legacy will be helping to conserve and protect Dorset’s wildlife for many years to come.”

The will writing service is only available to Dorset Wildlife Trust members.

To find out more and to request information about the service contact Clare Busby on 01305 264620 or visit the trust's gifts in wills page at dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/gifts_in_wills.