Local housebuilder Cotswold Homes stepped in to help when it learned that Canal and River Trust volunteers have been working so hard on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Freshford that many of their tools are worn out.

The firm, which is putting the finishing touches to six bespoke country houses it has built nearby on its Freshford Fields development, has sponsored the cost of much of the new equipment needed by the volunteers to clear vegetation, repair towpath potholes and paint lock gates.

This week the firm’s donation was praised by the trust’s volunteer development coordinator, Steve Manzi.

He said: 'Cotswold Homes' generosity has enabled my team to continue its valuable work. The volunteers make a massive contribution to the Canal & River Trust, undertaking activities we would not otherwise be able to carry out.'

Just up the hill from the canal, all but two of the new homes have been snapped up by buyers, reports Cotswold Homes’ head of sales and marketing, Terri Hayes-Pugh. 

These homes reflect local architectural styles with the use of local stone and timber detailing beneath tiled roofs. They combine the character and spaciousness of an earlier age with modern practicalities and efficiencies.’

Features of the new homes – all of which are included in the price – range from large format Porcelanosa floor tiles which enhance the contemporary Shaker kitchens to granite worktops and upstands which marry perfectly with integrated SMEG appliances.

Bedrooms have ample built-in wardrobe space. Bathrooms include a bath and separate double shower, The Gap sanitary ware by Roca, chrome towel rails and contemporary vanity units.

Prices of the four-bedroom detached homes still available to buy start at £750,000. To arrange a private viewing call Cotswold Homes’ dedicated sales consultant on 07989 581236 or visit www.cotswoldhomes.co.uk

Pictured beside the Kennet and Avon Canal with Terri Hayes-Pugh of Cotswold Homes (centre) and the new tools supplied by her firm are (left to right) John Webb, Mike Brown, Trevor Walker, Mike Finch, Derrick Hunt, Luke Giles (team leader), Peter Barlow and Rosemary Ainsworth.