Diy SOS – Mildenhall The Big Build

We joined forces with BBC DIY SOS and other local contractors to help build a much-needed extension to the home of Mildenhall resident, Simon Dobbin, who was left with permanent brain damage from an unprovoked attack after a football match in March 2015.

Four Bateman Groundworks employees joined hundreds of volunteers and specialist local businesses on the project to transform Simon’s home. The build which was carried out over a period of 10 days, included making the ground floor wheelchair accessible, building a wet room, a physio space and a downstairs bedroom for Simon.

On day one of the project, Paul Marsland, Bateman Groundworks Site Manager,  and Groundworkers, Matt Gibbs, Mick Edwards and Craig Read hand dug the essential foundations required to transmit the load of the new extension safely to the ground. On day two, their work continued and the foundations were completed with the laying of concrete donated by Wymondham based, Eastern Concrete LTD in readiness for the build.

Speaking during the project, Paul said: “As soon as I saw the call for help from DIY SOS, I knew Bateman Groundworks had the expertise in groundworks and project management skills this project needed. Our guys took no convincing. I am hugely impressed with the way all of the volunteers and tradespeople involved in this project came together and incredibly proud that we have been able to play our part in making a positive difference to Simon and his family.

After the unveil Matt Gibbs, Bateman Groundworker, said: “This was such a worthwhile project and positive way to dedicate our time. When Nick Knowles presented the family with their new home improvements, the impact was immediate, and the realisation of having played a part in that was very emotional for all involved. The benefits of this build will be felt long after the show airs.”