Two Havant based companies, Lockheed Martin UK and Pfizer Pharmaceuticals spent two days undertaking environmental tasks on Hayling Island and Langstone Harbour.
The first session took place on a sunny day in the Wildflower Meadow at the top of Hayling Island. In conjunction with The Hayling Coastal Conservation Group, a volunteer-led environmental task force, Pfizer employees spent the morning cutting & sacking wild docks, thistles & ragwort. Tony Craig, a Pfizer employee who lives locally, said: “It’s great to be involved in such a fantastic local project that really benefits the environment and the communities who enjoy spending time hereâ€.
Lockheed Martin UK, a large employer based in Havant spent their session supporting Friends of Langstone Harbour, a Conservation Group which promotes interest in Langstone Harbour, working for its maintenance & improvement for local people and wildlife. Bob Kramer, Vice President and Group Managing Director of Lockheed Martin UK – Integrated Systems said, “As a major employer in the area, Lockheed Martin UK has an important role to play in the local community. Our employees are encouraged to volunteer their time and expertise to help with local projects, and we were delighted to be able to work with the Friends of Langstone Harbour to collect 18 bags of litter from Budds Farm beach on Saturday. I know the team found this a very rewarding and worthwhile activity and we really hope the area can be enjoyed by many people throughout the summerâ€.
Community First HEH facilitated the events and Janet Duggan, Volunteer Service Co-ordinator, said “it was fantastic to see local business professionals giving their time to support the local community. Volunteer support from the business sector is vital in supporting local groups, who themselves struggle to find volunteers. Both Pfizer and Lockheed Martin UK have helped to keep the local coastline protected which is used and enjoyed by the local community and beyondâ€.
Community First HEH, through its Volunteer Service, is looking for new businesses to work with. Volunteering in the community has many benefits, not only to the local community but for all organisations involved. If you would like to find out how your company can get involved with the scheme contact Janet Duggan on 0300 500 8085 or email janet.duggan@cfheh.org.uk