Local wildlife rescue receives equipment donation from United Utilities

WWR Wings Wildlife and Bird Rescue has received a welcome boost to their community wildlife care and conservation efforts, thanks to a donation from United Utilities.

The group, based in Merseyside, was presented with brand-new equipment to help volunteers continue their vital rescue work.

WWR Wings Wildlife and Bird Rescue is made up of volunteers who dedicate their time to rescue and protect ducks, geese, swans, and other wildlife in parks across the region. The group regularly responds to reports from members of the public of birds in distress, many of which have been caught in fishermen’s hooks or lines, or even attacked by dogs or other animals.

With the help of United Utilities’ Better Rivers Community Fund, the donation will help WWR Wings Wildlife and Bird Rescue continue their efforts to protect wildlife, whilst also cleaning up local parks and lakes. The group also educates the community and local fishermen on the importance of keeping wild birds safe and the correct ways in which lines and hooks should be disposed of safely.

The WWR Wings Wildlife and Bird Rescue group met with River Rangers from the North West’s water company as they handed over the equipment. The donation from United Utilities provided the local group with a range of equipment such as safety gloves, torches and floating lines, helping them to continue their work safely and efficiently.

Jay Scott from WWR Wings and Wildlife said: “We want to say a massive thank you to United Utilities for all their help in providing us with the equipment we needed, we all appreciate it so much.”

Mark Booth, Area Engagement lead for Merseyside at United Utilities, commented: “Wildlife and birds are so important for water conservation and the maintenance of healthy ecosystems, so it’s vitally important we do all we can to protect them - we’re really pleased to have been able to support WWR Wings Wildlife and Bird Rescue group.

“They’re extremely passionate about what they do and it’s encouraging to see a group of volunteers dedicate their time to help protect the local wildlife. Hopefully, our donation has given them the tools they need to become more efficient, allowing them to treat and protect as many animals as possible, while also helping keep our local lakes clean.”

The Better Rivers Better North West Community Fund supports community groups whose activities:

• Benefit local watercourses and riverside environments
• Act as catalyst for improved community and environmental wellbeing
• Reconnect communities to riverside environments
• Promote sustainable drainage

Groups can apply to the fund for up to £2,500 worth of support by emailing  Stakeholderrelations@uuplc.co.uk with details of their request.