Staff from Watford businesses cleared up a riverbank as part of a new community initiative designed to have a lasting impact.

Companies and community partners worked together on projects, designed to improve public areas and help families in need on Thursday, ending the day with a family fun afternoon at Cassiobury Park.

As part of the initiative, more than 100 volunteers from nine businesses including Hilton, Warner Bros. and Intu Watford will take part in riverbank and footpath maintenance, litter-picking and playground makeovers and renovation work at the Meriden Centre. Families will also receive support with tending to their gardens.

In partnership with charity Home-Start, young people from disadvantaged backgrounds will also be invited to take part in an afternoon packed with activities at Cassiobury Park.

Watford Borough Council, the Pump House Theatre and Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust will provide activities ranging from inflatable football and facepainting to theatre workshops and educational nature walks.

Watford is the home of Hilton Europe, Middle East & Africa. The event takes place during Global Week of Service, Hilton’s largest annual community service initiative, in which Hilton staff from all over the world support their communities.

Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president of Hilton Europe, Middle East & Africa said: “Watford is an important town for us. We are committed to creating a lasting impact on every community we touch, and working alongside other businesses based in the area makes this an even more powerful collaboration. We’re looking forward to building on the success of this year’s event in future.”

Chris Luff, chairman of Watford and West Herts Chamber of Commerce and Chamber of Conscience founder, said: “Whether we've lived in Watford all our lives, moved here recently, or commute here for work, Watford takes centre stage in many of our lives. We’re delighted to be working with Hilton and other businesses to make this day memorable for all the right reasons. We’re excited to see how this partnership progresses in the coming years, and would urge any other businesses who want to get involved next year to get in touch.”