Bowker MINI Staff join Ribble Rivers Trust for woodland maintenance in Samlesbury

Bowker MINI employees have completed a volunteer day with the Ribble Rivers Trust, assisting in woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm, Samlesbury.

The project, located just off the M6 at Junction 31, involved staff from Bowker MINI’s Blackburn and Preston centres. Inspired by MINI UK Big Love campaign, the team carried out tasks such as inspecting tree health, removing competing plants from tree guards, straightening tree stakes, and marking trees needing replacement.

Chris Eccles, for Bowker MINI, said: "It was great to return to Blue Slate Farm, where we had planted trees a couple of years ago. Seeing how they’ve grown and being part of their continued care was really rewarding for us.”

This latest conservation effort follows Bowker MINI's long-standing collaboration with the Ribble Rivers Trust, which has seen the business and its staff participate in a range of environmental projects. 

Jack Spees, CEO of the Ribble Rivers Trust, said: "The continued support from Bowker MINI is invaluable. Having their team back to help with woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm makes a real difference to the health of the woodland and the success of our long-term conservation efforts."

Since partnering with the Ribble Rivers Trust, Bowker MINI has participated in several conservation projects to improve local environments. These have included tackling the invasive Himalayan Balsam at Haggs Wood in Burnley, a litter-picking event along Eaves Brook in Preston, and the recent woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm in Samlesbury.

Each project has involved Bowker MINI staff volunteering to support river health, biodiversity, and wildlife habitats as part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign, which promotes community engagement and environmental conservation across the country.

Bowker MINI’s involvement in these initiatives highlights their commitment to preserving local wildlife and improving the natural environment. The Ribble Rivers Trust encourages local volunteers to join their ongoing conservation efforts, with more information available at ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer.