Business supports canal restoration charity
1:00pm Tuesday 16th October 2012 in Latest News
A green energy company has demonstrated its support for the environment by becoming a corporate member of a canal restoration charity.
Melksham businessman Matt Sidnell, director of Consumer Renewable Technologies, has joined the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust.
He hopes it will encourage other businesses to support the campaign to bring the former waterway back to life, creating a new wildlife corridor linking local towns.
Mr Sidnell said: “I’ve been following the progress of the canal’s restoration for several years, and this seemed like the perfect partnership between my own business and a worthy cause.
“I provide a consultancy service for the design and installation of solar panels and other sources of renewable energy in order to encourage a cleaner and greener environment, while the volunteers with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust are improving wildlife habitats and creating a new amenity for the local community.
“Corporate membership is a simple but effective way to support their ambition, and the cost is so low that I’ll also be looking for sponsorship opportunities to help with the promotion of their events.”
Branch chairman Derek Flexer said: “We are delighted to welcome CRT as our latest corporate supporter and its recognition of the positive impact of our work.
“Every new member demonstrates to our partners and potential funders an increasing deter- mination to restore this wonderful waterway.
“Alongside the restoration of the canal itself, work parties have also been busy planting trees, clearing rubbish and installing birdboxes and batboxes.
“Longer-term, the towpath network will encourage people to cycle between our local towns, improving health and safety while reducing congestion and pollution on the roads.”
Corporate membership of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is just £25 per year and includes a quarterly newsletter and invitations to local work parties and social events.
Family, junior and individual memberships are also available.
Visit www.melkshamwaterway. org.uk for more information.
