Farrans has volunteered alongside the Wear Rivers Trust to support environmental improvement works on the River Gaunless in Bishop Auckland, contributing to the ongoing Northumbrian Water Blue Spaces Scheme.

The volunteering day involved members of the Farrans team participating in a range of practical conservation activities designed to enhance river health, biodiversity, and long-term environmental resilience within the Gaunless catchment.

Over the course of a four-hour session, volunteers assisted in constructing a "green engineered" revetment. Built using natural materials such as logs and willow, the structure is designed to stabilise eroded riverbanks. This approach encourages natural regeneration, reduces silt run-off into local watercourses, and creates improved habitats for native wildlife species.

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The team also took part in Riverfly monitoring activities, helping to assess water quality by identifying and recording aquatic invertebrates found within the riverbed. Because these sensitive species act as important indicators of river health, the monitoring data will contribute to wider environmental protection efforts through the Riverfly Partnership.

In addition, the volunteers assisted with the removal of Himalayan balsam, an invasive non-native species capable of damaging riverbanks and outcompeting native flora. Removing these shallow-rooted plants before they go to seed helps protect and restore local biodiversity along the river corridor.

Farrans has previously supported the Wear Rivers Trust through sponsorship initiatives, which included funding workwear jackets for the charity's team and supporting its 2025 Riverfest summer event.

By working alongside organisations such as the Wear Rivers Trust, Farrans continues to back projects that deliver positive environmental and community impacts, helping to create more sustainable and resilient places for future generations.