Stansted Airport volunteers help create veg patch and reading area at Gorsefield Rural Studies Centre in Stansted Mountfitchet for inner-city kids

A team from Stansted Airport’s communications department swapped laptops and phones for spades and gardening gloves at a rural studies centre at Stansted Mountfitchet.

The volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help prepare a patch of land where children will grow pumpkins and squashes, and helped create a reading area for young visitors to enjoy between outdoor adventures.

Set in seven acres of countryside, Gorsefield Rural Studies Centre off Grove Hill is an Edwardian house owned by the London borough of Tower Hamlets. It welcomes schools and community groups for outdoor learning experiences including archery, campfire building and guided walks.

Chris Collins, from the centre, said: “Huge thanks to the team from Stansted Airport – they were brilliant. They got stuck in and helped create a great new veg patch and reading area for the kids. We really appreciate their time and effort.”

One of the volunteers, Laura Cope, said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to help such a great organisation. It was so rewarding being outdoors and seeing how the help we gave would benefit the children who visit Gorsefield.”

Stansted encourages employees to take part in volunteering opportunities that support local schools, charities and community groups.

Dan Turpin, the airport’s community engagement manager, said: “Supporting local organisations like Gorsefield is really important to us. It’s just one of the ways we’re committed to giving back to our community.”