Staff from Axminster-based Xylem Water Solutions changed jobs for a day when they volunteered at Seaton Wetlands Nature Reserve.

The group spent the day under the guidance of East Devon District Council’s Countryside rangers, collecting and burning soft rush cuttings in preparation for the winter flooding of the site.

James Chubb, one of the Countryside team leaders said that it was great to welcome the five staff for a corporate day of volunteering.

He added: “While the five staff from Xylem spent the morning volunteering, we were able to explain the ecological benefits of the work they were doing.

“This is hugely rewarding for groups of volunteers who can look back and see what they have helped to achieve during the day.’’

Peggy Alcock, of Xylem, a global water technology company, said that the organisation is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a global month of service.

She said: “As part of this work, volunteers from across our business are getting hands-on in a series of waterway clean-ups.

“We are absolutely delighted to support Seaton Wetland’s work, particularly as it will help prepare for winter floods, an issue elsewhere that we deal with.”