National Express West Midlands

"We need your help!" was the cry made by the production team of BBC's popular Springwatch programme to National Express. They needed voulnteers to help them undertake a wildlife makeover audit at Thimble Mill Brook in Smethwick to help improve the local environment for the many birds, trees and flowers in this green oasis close to the heart of Birmingham.

Within 48 hours, volunteers from the nearby National Express West Midlands bus garage at West Bromwich set out.

The team soon identified many species of plants and wildlife. Driver Trainer Rachel Allen said: "I have passed this place hundreds of times in my car and on the bus, and have never given it a second look. I am amazed at the amount of wildlife there is so close to my home."