Simpkins Edwards shows community spirit - come rain or shine

South West accountancy firm Simpkins Edwards commenced its volunteer programme with plenty of enthusiasm this year.

Employees donate a day annually to work with local initiatives such as charities or conservation projects. First up for 2026 was a day spent on the River Tale at Escot, where 10 Exeter team members donned wading gear to remove the invasive species Himalayan Balsam from the river banks, helping to lessen its impact on soil erosion and wildlife habitats.  

This was just prior to the heatwave, and the team braved wet weather conditions, toiling from 8.30am until well after 5pm to clear an impressive length of the river. This area is part of Devon Wildlife Trust’s beaver reintroduction programme, and there was great excitement when a beaver was spotted.

Volunteers have also provided support to Rowcroft Hospice in Torquay, where they cleared pathways and tackled an overgrown car park entrance; an inspiring day involving hard work, plenty of laugh and a visit from the therapy cat. At Animals in Distress in Ipplepen, the morning was spent doing some gardening to help keep the rescue centre looking its best, followed by an afternoon of dog walking and cat socialising.

Managing Partner Mark Simic, who was part of the Himalayan Balsam clearing crew, said: “Each year we support a wide range of charities and community initiatives large and small by carrying out tasks that really make a difference.

“Whether it’s gardening, painting and general maintenance or pulling up swathes of invasive plants, we really put our backs into supporting the communities we are based in.”

There are more volunteering days still to be booked in, and Simpkins Edwards would be pleased to hear of a charity or community initiative that could use some help for a day. Please email: amaguire@simpkinsedwards.co.uk