Stonebridge City Farm to regain heating and hot water after six-month outage

Stonebridge City Farm, a charitable organization in Sneinton, Nottingham, is poised to have its heating and hot water supply reinstated after a six-month absence, following the failure of its boiler in May. This restoration is attributed to the efforts of a volunteer team. Warriors of Warmth, a collective of plumbers and engineers committed to combating fuel poverty, has since intervened to repair the system. Grace Devey, the charity’s marketing and events co-ordinator, commented: “It will be life-changing for the farm – we can leave our hot water bottles at home!” Stonebridge operates as a free admission attraction, housing a variety of animals, including horses, cows, guinea pigs, and a tortoise. Additionally, the site features vegetable and fruit gardens adjacent to its paddocks. Ms Devey stated: “During the summer it wasn’t such a problem, but now we are really noticing it.”With no heating and hot water, it means the staff and volunteers, especially those who have been working outside, can’t warm up.”Even small things like doing the washing up and cleaning hands is a real struggle.”For the animals, it means frozen baths and drinking water can’t be defrosted.”The only downside with the work is we might have a battle with the cats for space next to the radiator.” The replacement of the boiler is scheduled to occur during the weekend. Jonathon Hallam, who founded Warriors of Warmth and is from Bingham, remarked: “We have an amazing team of volunteers, and we have amazing sponsors who donate equipment.”It is really daunting for charities, and particularly the trustees of charities, to get a new heating system.”We provide the system for Stonebridge but also experience and advice for people trying to get into the plumbing industry.” For updates, follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or by WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.