Volunteers from Vernon Building Society in Greater Manchester have taken part in planting oak and alder saplings at the RSPB site at Dove Stone Nature Reserve.
The volunteering took place during National Tree Week (23 November to 1 December) as part of the society’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
Nine employees pledged to spend two days planting trees on the 26th and 28th of November to help increase biodiversity, slow water run-off, and combat climate change.
Since their first visit in February 2023, Vernon employees have planted around 2,200 trees as part of their commitment to community support.
Next year, Vernon volunteers plan to continue their work with the RSPB, with a peatland restoration project at Dove Stone being considered.
Steve Fletcher, CEO at Vernon Building Society, said: “So far, we’ve had 21 colleagues planting trees at Dove Stone and they’ve thoroughly enjoyed the small part they’ve played in helping the planet and the local area.
“We’re aiming to provide 100 days of paid volunteering during our centenary year.
“Colleagues can choose from a wide range of opportunities to help in as many different areas of our community as possible, from decorating community premises to distributing food to the homeless.
“With tree planting, volunteers get to spend time outdoors in nature in the beautiful Peak District so it’s a very popular choice for our team.”
