THREATENED voles have found a saviour in a Stoke St Gregory eco-engineering company.

Willowbank has developed a new dredging system that offers protection to banks and most importantly to vole habitats.

Senior partner James Hector (pictured) said: "This is a big breakthrough in water engineering.

"We have been working on this since we were approached for advice from a local drainage board last year.

"There is no exact science as most locations require their own individual solutions.

"However our system includes a mix of hard engineering and natural elements - this will ensure affordable efficient dredging plus the best sustainable environment for voles.

"All British waterways should now be able to be cleared without threatening Britain's best loved mammal - Ratty will live to see another day."