Shire employees volunteer for wildlife
21 May 2009
Employees from Basingstoke based Shire have been helping the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust enhance the environment for wildlife by building and repairing fences at their North Warnborough Greens Nature Reserve, near Hook.
Shire is keen to help their employees make a real difference to the local environment, and their SAVE programme - Shire's Actions and Values for the Environment - brings a number of environmental initiatives together.
Joining the Wildlife Trust as a Wildlife Investor has helped Shire demonstrate to its employees its commitment to the local environment, but it's how that translates into practical action that matters most.
Shire's staff are the key to the success of SAVE and as part of the programme, Faye Morris, Shire's Corporate Communications Manager set up the company volunteering day for the staff.
Mike Morton, Reserves and Grazing Officer at the Wildlife Trust said, "A group of 24 keen workers from Shire spent the day building and fixing fences at North Warnborough Greens. We need the fences to be in good order so that we can graze the site with cattle. This grazing really benefits the wildlife present. The group from Shire have done a great job in helping us do that. Without groups like this we couldn't complete all the work that needs to be done."
Faye Morris adds, "We were put to work constructing fencing around the reserve using a variety of tools. The group worked hard digging and moving timber, and our efforts have made a real difference to the management of the reserve. And not only was it great for the environment, but the day was also excellent for team building."
Donna Birch, the Trust's Volunteer Development Manager said, "This type of support from Shire is really appreciated. It generates real help and is also a powerful way to raise awareness. Thanks to Shire we have helped local wildlife and introduced the Wildlife Trust to a completely new audience. It's a great partnership."
If you would like to find out more about how your business can become a Wildlife Investor, or would like information about company volunteering days, please contact Donna Birch at the Wildlife Trust on donnab@hwt.org.uk or call her on 01489 774400.
Ends
Photo opportunity
For additional images or to arrange photography, please contact:
Donna Birch, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, donnab@hwt.org.uk 01489 774400
The attached photos show the Shire volunteers about to start work, and hard at it.
Notes to Editors
For further information please contact:
Donna Birch, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, donnab@hwt.org.uk 01489 774400
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust strives to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. It is the leading wildlife charity in the counties of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, and is part of a nationwide network of 47 local charities. We work together to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in the UK. With the support of our 27, 000 members, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Trust is taking effective action to protect our natural heritage, helping it to flourish again. Find out more at http://www.hwt.org.uk/
