IT was a case of boots on and spades at the ready for a group of 15 volunteers from a Worcester-based energy supplier when they spent a day helping out at Croome Park.

Although it was blowing a gale, the rain stayed away and let the team of npower staff get on with traditional, circular hedge-planting in the grounds of the landscaped-park designed by Lancelot Capability Brown.

The park, which was designed in 1751 for George Coventry, 6th Earl of Coventry, has often been described as one of the single most influential and breathtaking landscapes in Europe.

Team leader Julia Brockley said it was both physically demanding and marvellous fun.

She said: “Volunteering is a great way to get to know colleagues and be able to make a positive contribution to the local environment.

“Several of the volunteers have already said how much they enjoyed the day and would be willing to volunteer again.”

After completing their work, Katherine Alker from Croome Park gave the group a tour of the grounds, explaining the history and future plans the National Trust has in mind.

She said she was delighted with the efforts and achievement of the group.

“They did a fantastic job, were really enthusiastic and managed to complete more than we anticipated in just one day,” she said. “Should they want to volunteer again, I’m sure we would have some work for them.”

People working at npower hope that their activities will encourage other companies to get involved in local volunteering and help the environment.

The volunteering programme at npower is run in partnership with Community Service Volunteers and provides opportunities for employees to develop their all-round skills and make a positive contribution towards their community.