OTTER Garden Centres has pledged to carry out 60 'good deeds' across 2024 to mark its 60th anniversary.

The family-run business, which has two branches in Taunton and Wincanton, is gearing up to bring smiles to the faces of those in local communities.

The company plans to engage in good deeds of varying scales as part of its year-long initiative.

The business has kicked off its goodwill drive with the donation of a fire pit to a local Scout group.

The Scouts, who are unable to have an open fire on their site, are looking forward to incorporating lessons on fire safety and cooking into their activities.

Collaborations with charities, schools and community organisations are also in sight as the year unfolds.

Somerset County Gazette: The family-run business has two branches in Taunton and Wincanton

Managing director, Jacqui Taylor emphasised the company's intent to make a meaningful difference.

Ms Taylor said: "We really are keen to make a difference to our local communities throughout this very special year.

"As a family-run business we have always believed in building close relationships with the neighbourhoods we are part of, whether through sponsoring sports teams or offering free sunflowers seeds."

The company now owns seven garden centres and three nurseries, growing nearly 80 per cent of the plants they retail.

Echoing the spirit of gratitude, Ms Taylor extended her appreciation to the Otter team, noting their role in shaping the traditions and values of the business.

She said: "At the same time, we are working to ensure our teams flourish; we have many long-standing colleagues at our branches, whose loyalty and hard work we really do appreciate, so they will be very much a part of our celebrations."

The 'good deeds' to be performed throughout the year include enhancing local school outdoor spaces and beautifying community hospital gardens.

Additionally, every Otter branch will be organising fundraising events for its pre-selected charity.

An extended company history dating back to 1964 is accessible on the Otter Garden Centres website, providing greater insights into the company's foundations and progress over the last 60 years.

To learn more, visit www.ottergardencentres.com/about-otter.