Our Warwick team recently had the opportunity to volunteer at Ryton Pools Country Park, a stunning 100-acre nature reserve nestled in the heart of Warwickshire. This park, renowned for its lush landscapes and peaceful pools, has undergone an impressive transformation from its industrial past into a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation.
Once used for sand and gravel extraction, the park’s two flooded pits and two landfilled areas were repurposed in the 1980s, with gas and leachate extraction systems and a protective clay capping layer. Over time, these sites have been restored and have naturally evolved into a thriving “meadow habitat,” providing a safe haven for local wildlife.
Our mission? To help the park rangers reclaim a grazing meadow overrun by blackthorn trees and stubborn shrubbery. Armed with saws and questionable confidence, our Warwick team hacked through the undergrowth (no blackthorn was safe!) to ensure that sheep could graze safely without the risk of injury from sharp vegetation. The day ended with a mighty bonfire, worthy of a campfire tale or two.
Ben, the park ranger, shared his appreciation: “Many thanks indeed for all the incredible work you all undertook on our behalf the other day, it was an incredible amount achieved!”
Volunteering isn’t just about giving back to the community; it’s also a great way to break up the daily routine. At JNP, we encourage our employees to take part in local projects—it’s a rewarding way to make an impact while fostering team spirit. These activities not only benefit the community but also boost team bonds and inject fresh energy into the workplace.
