Some volunteer projects aim to protect the countryside and heritage

The Vanishing Britain survey was commissioned by Community Services Volunteers (CSV).

The CSV is urging people to take part in projects aimed at protecting heritage and rural life to mark its Make a Difference Day on 28 October.

Nearly half of the 1,009 people quizzed worried about losing countryside and 41% feared losing local amenities.

One in 10 people questioned in the ICM poll were concerned about losing historical buildings.

And a quarter of those questioned said they were concerned about the "vanishing" dignity of older people due to lack of support, while 40% were concerned over dwindling support and guidance for young people.

The survey also found 30% of those questioned worried about not spending enough time with their families.

'Most value'

CSV Make a Difference Day Campaign Manager Claire Ghoussoub said: "If we are to stop those things we most value about people and places from vanishing forever we must take action now."

She said this could be done through voluntary work such as helping renovate a stately home, helping a school leaver prepare for their first interview or taking an elderly neighbour to the beach for the day.

The CSV survey showed that people under the age of 45 were most concerned by loss of countryside, while people aged 55 and above were most concerned by the loss of local amenities, such as shops and post offices.

Meanwhile, the main issue for 18 to 24 year-olds was losing national heritage, with nearly one in five saying losing buildings, such as castles and stately homes, concerned them.

CSV said around 114,000 people were set to take part in volunteering activities during the two weeks either side of 28 October.

Make a Difference Day is supported by celebrities including music producer Pete Waterman, actor Tony Robinson and T4's June Sarpong.