Animal loving employees from Barratt Homes’ Southampton Division had a day away from building new homes to visit Marwell Zoo for some volunteering.

The group of five volunteers from the leading housebuilder took a trip to the popular Hampshire zoo and helped the Habitats team to tidy up the Sitatunga paddock.

They spent the day pulling up thistles from the area to ensure it was in the best shape for the park’s animals.

Daily Echo: The volunteers getting stuck in at Marwell Zoo

READ MORE: Five rare mouflon lambs born in the New Forest

With a 140 acre park to look after, support from volunteers is crucial.

Rob Haines, Habitats Team Leader, said: “We couldn’t maintain this incredible home for our animals without the help from those people who give up their time to volunteer.

"We’re really grateful to the Barratt team for their hard work today, they managed to clear 20 bags’ worth of thistles from our Sitatunga paddock, which is fantastic.

"A huge thank you from everyone here.”