Local company supports popular tourist attraction for the day

On Friday 23 August 2019, Harborough District based business, Joules, took part in a pilot volunteering day in partnership with Harborough District Council, Voluntary Action Leicestershire (VAL) and Canal and River Trust.

Fifteen Joules colleagues (pictured) volunteered their help for the day and learned how the Canal and River Trust staff maintains such a prestigious tourist attraction throughout the year.

Councillor Phil King, Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “It is great to support this volunteer project to encourage businesses in the Harborough District to offer a few hours of their day to help play a part in improving their local community.”

James Cockbill, learning and development manager for Joules, said: “It’s been a brilliant experience. The team have enjoyed getting out of the office and being able to learn and offer their time to help maintain such a popular tourist attraction that is enjoyed by so many visitors throughout the year.”

During the day the team were able to learn about the nature and habitat of Foxton. Whilst taking a tour of the site they were informed about the number of tree and plant species at Foxton Lock and the surrounding area, as well as their importance in creating a healthy environment for visitors to enjoy.  

Furthermore, one of Canal and River Trust’s Ecologist & Environmental Scientists offered their expertise and showed the group how the water is tested; discussing what the readings mean, the effects of pollution on our inland waterways and the importance of testing water conditions.

The team were hands-on and got involved in helping to paint lock gates and fencing around the Foxton site. The Foxton Locks staff explained how this is an important aspect of the job as it enhances visitors’ experience of visiting a well kept and managed site.

Dave Cliffe, VAL’s employment hub development officer, said: “It has been great to pilot this volunteering day with such a well-respected local business, Joules, at Foxton Locks. Days like this are a great way for businesses to engage with their staff beyond the traditional office environment, while offering help and support their local community.”

Both the Canal and River Trust and VAL websites provide a range of information about how you can get involved in volunteering.

For any information regarding business advice or support you can contact Harborough District Council’s Economic Development Team by emailing business@harborough.gov.uk or via Twitter @InvestHarbDist

Notes to editors:

Find out more about Joules here