Back to nature for National Grid volunteers

18/05/2009

NATIONAL Grid volunteers exchanged the office for the great outdoors as they helped build fences at a rural beauty spot.

Sixteen National Grid staff from Warwick and Wokingham took part in an environmental challenge at the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) Warburg Nature Reserve near Henley-on-Thames.

Volunteers had to build a new fence to prevent grazing sheep and cattle from wandering on to neighbouring farm land.

It was not all hard graft for the volunteers who also enjoyed a guided nature walk around the reserve, which is home to a wide variety of animals and plants.

National Grid volunteer Jen Lawson, a business assurance manager, said:  “The location and facilities were completely different to our normal roles and everyone gained an enormous sense of satisfaction from what we achieved on the day. The Warburg staff were very friendly and helpful and made sure that we all had a safe, enjoyable day.”

Emily Gould, Fundraising Officer for BBOWT was impressed with the team’s efforts.

She commented: “BBOWT really appreciates the practical help provided by corporate volunteers to improve habitats for wildlife on our nature reserves and welcomes companies to get in touch and join in.

“Corporate volunteering provides a great opportunity for companies to help local wildlife whilst encouraging team building and teaching new skills.”

Ends

For further information regarding this release contact Antony Quarrell, National Grid Media Relations on 07810 853075

To learn more about BBOWT, companies can call Emily on 01865 775476, or email her at emilygould@bbowt.org.uk

Last month a National Grid team from Wokingham built a fence which helped protect a newly restored pond on the reserve.

Notes to Editors:

National Grid
National Grid is an international electricity and gas company and one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. We play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to millions of people across Great Britain and northeastern US in an efficient, reliable and safe manner. We believe the power of action can play a major role in safeguarding our global environment for future generations and tackling the effects of climate change, providing all our customers with the highest standards of service through network investment and through our talented, diverse workforce.

National Grid owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain. It also owns and operates the high pressure gas transmission system in Britain and its distribution business delivers gas to 11 million homes and businesses.

National Grid manages the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.  

*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.

BBOWT
BBOWT is one of 47 Wildlife Trusts working across Britain to secure a better future for wildlife. BBOWT cares for 80 nature reserves, works in partnership to look after the wider countryside and inspires people to take action for wildlife. For more information go to www.bbowt.org.uk