Bowker MINI plants trees with Ribble Rivers Trust

Bowker MINI staff have volunteered with the Ribble Rivers Trust planting trees as part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign. The tree planting took place off Spring Lane in Samlesbury as part of the trust’s ongoing conservation efforts to improve the River Ribble and its tributaries.

Prepared with sturdy footwear, waterproofs, and a packed lunch, seven staff planted over 400 saplings. The planting focused on an area near Nabs Head in Samlesbury. The trees will help reduce the River Darwen flood risk, a River Ribble tributary, and aid carbon capture.

Bowker MINI’s volunteering commitment is part of a national initiative launched by MINI UK last year called Big Love. This ongoing campaign encourages MINI retailers nationwide to establish strong connections with their local communities by creating unique Big Love pledges. This initiative motivates centres to collaborate with local organisations like The Ribble Rivers Trust to provide help and support.

Jonathan Rogan, head of business, commented: "Thank you to everyone who turned up for a fantastic tree planting day. Since last year, our collaboration with the Ribble Rivers Trust has become a volunteering highlight. Despite the weather, this latest event is another example of how our volunteering and charity partnerships make life at Bowker MINI unique."

The collaboration between Bowker MINI and The Ribble Rivers Trust began last year when Bowker MINI centres on Preston Docks and Trident Park, Blackburn, dedicated staff time to volunteer for the local charity. The centres also encouraged MINI owners to participate in volunteering activities.

Bowker MINI staff volunteers have been actively involved in several conservation tasks within the Ribble catchment area, including tree planting, clean-ups, fencing, and brash building using wood from fallen trees.

Amy Lancaster-Hall, group marketing manager, added: "The Ribble Rivers Trust offers a wide range of activities for our staff to participate in, ensuring there's something for everyone. We'll continue promoting conservation efforts at our Centre and encourage our MINI owners to join us in volunteering too!"

The Ribble Rivers Trust is a Clitheroe-based charity working tirelessly to improve, protect, and promote the River Ribble for people and wildlife. The Trust collaborates with various public and private organisations to implement river improvement projects across the Ribble catchment area, benefiting local communities and the environment.

Jack Spees, CEO of The Ribble Rivers Trust, said: "Our volunteers are vital to the success of our conservation projects. Volunteering is an amazing way to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and learn new skills. We're thrilled that Bowker MINI staff were able to help us with the tree planting in Samlesbury."

Organisations interested in volunteering for The Ribble Rivers Trust can find more information by visiting ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer