Tenants take a walk on the wild side with David Bellamy

Wildlife presenter and environmental campaigner, Professor David Bellamy OBE, joined Midland Heart in welcoming the housing association’s Birmingham-based customers to an event offering advice on everything from DIY, money management and healthy living.

Bellamy was on hand to find out what customers thought about eco-kitchen supplier Chamois Eco-Kitchens, where he is a non-executive director, and gave advice on the benefits of ‘thinking green’.“This has been a great opportunity to inform people that making small changes to their daily routine can help the environment,” he explained. “Installing smart new kitchens made from recycled materials is just one example of how housing associations like Midland Heart are doing their bit to reduce their carbon footprint.”

Interactive features at the event included a ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’ housing quiz, a ‘Big Brother’ style diary room chair and a gardening advice stand.

The event, held in Digbeth, also gave customers the opportunity to learn more about the improvements that Midland Heart has made to its services and its plans for the year ahead.

Tom Murtha, Midland Heart chief executive officer, said: “We are passionate about delivering a quality service and empowering our customers to make decisions which affect their homes and daily lives.

“The event has provided customers with a chance to learn more about the services we can provide in a fun and informal environment.”

Customers also had the chance to win a DVD player, weekend break for two, iPod touch and Nintendo Wii in a prize draw featuring gifts donated by Midland Heart contractors, Morrison, Mears, Connaught and Lovell.

Younger customers were kept entertained with basic DJ taster sessions and light refreshments which were provided throughout the day.

Pictured: Tom Murtha, Midland Heart chief executive officer with David Bellamy