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Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Thames Water team up to support Birdland’s penguins during heatwave

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Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) and Thames Water have joined forces to support Birdland Park & Gardens in Bourton-on-the-Water by refilling the penguin pools following a request for help due to a lack of useable water caused by the recent hot weather.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service teams help to refill Birdland's penguin pool

The collaborative effort took place on Tuesday 19 August at Birdland’s Penguin Shore, home to England’s only group of King Penguins. The pools are vital for the penguins’ wellbeing.

 

Nathaniel Hooton, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We’re always proud to support our local communities in any way we can. When Birdland reached out, we were happy to help ensure the penguins have a safe and comfortable environment, especially during these challenging weather conditions.”

Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, cabinet member with responsibility for the fire and rescue service, said: “Supporting our communities goes beyond emergency response—it’s about being there when help is needed most. We’re proud to assist Birdland to ensure the welfare of their penguins. This collaboration with Thames Water reflects the spirit of partnership and public service we strive for every day.”

Simon Cox, General Manager for Birdland, said: “We are incredibly grateful to both Thames Water and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service for stepping in to support us. Their help is invaluable, and we want to extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved. The whole Birdland team and most importantly our new Penguin chicks will be delighted to have a freshly filled pool.”

A spokesperson for Thames Water said: “We’ve recently seen the fourth heatwave of the year and conditions have been incredibly dry over the spring and summer months. We’re really pleased to be able to help Birdland’s penguin community by refilling their pool after the effects of prolonged dry weather and thank both Birdland and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service for their collaboration.”