Volunteers from UK Power Networks Services joined forces with staff from the local electricity network operator, UK Power Networks plus contractors Stammatt to improve wheelchair access, not just for anglers, but for all the local residents who visit the popular local beauty spot.

Twenty-five volunteers lent a hand over two days, making a safe new access path off Eastwick Drive through the companies’ Donate a Day scheme, which enables employees to spend two paid days each year supporting voluntary work in their local communities.

Retired UK Power Networks Services’ employee Dave Tarrant, who is chairman of Leatherhead and District Angling Society, approached his former colleagues for help with the accessibility project.

Dave said: “Even though some staff had never worked alongside me, they committed all their efforts to complete the task. I cannot thank them enough, as this will help the whole community more than they can imagine.

“The pond was quite muddy in the winter and we didn’t have the funds to upgrade the path, hence my SOS call to my former colleagues!”

Heather Smeaton-Lowen, high voltage engineering manager at UK Power Networks Services, said: “Everyone wanted to get involved to show their support for one of our former colleagues and help the local community by improving access to this area.

“We used mechanical diggers to excavate the soil for the new pathways, lay a membrane and provide a compacted base giving wheelchair access around the lake. There is a bench under a tree off the pathway so visitors can now take a wheelchair to that spot and enjoy the countryside around them, because it’s a lovely place.”