News

A team of volunteers from Severn Trent branched out in a new direction this week – by clearing selected trees and bushes for a charity in Derbyshire.

The group of ‘Community Champions’ spent a day based at Hilcote Community Centre near Alfreton to help the Trent Rivers Trust with some maintenance work along the river.

The team got involved in cutting down carefully selected trees and removing bushes along the river banks to allow more light through to help the local environment.

Leanne Town, who organised the day, said: “Our volunteers had a great time and helped to make a real difference by clearing a large section of the river bank that can now be enjoyed by wildlife and members of the local community.

“I’d like to thank members of staff from our partners MWH Treatment who came along on the day and helped us get so much done. It was a really fun and rewarding experience for everyone involved.”

Trent Rivers Trust works with anglers, landowners, partner organisations and the general public to improve the environment along the River Trent.

Julie Wozniczka, from the trust, added: “It was great to see so many people from Severn Trent volunteering – we wouldn’t have got half as much done without them.

“In total we let light in along 250m of the river bank which will really help our local wildlife here to thrive, water voles and butterflies should really benefit.

“Derbyshire County Council own the land, provided staff and equipment and were very happy with the results.”

The clean-up day was part of Severn Trent’s Community Champions scheme which allows every member of staff to spend two working days a year doing volunteer work in their community.

Leanne added: “We’re big believers in volunteering, which is why we encourage and empower our employees to get out and about in their communities.

“Whether it’s volunteering at our one of our stunning visitor sites, supporting our chosen charities or working with our key partners to help make our region’s rivers even healthier, we’re proud that our Community Champions are helping to make a real difference.”