Westleigh Quarry in Devon is no stranger to holding an open day. For many years the quarry has welcomed visitors who want to get to know us better.
The latest was held in September 2010 provided the chance to walk, talk and see what a quarry is all about. Visitors were greeted in a marquee and made to feel part of the site by being issued with PPE and given a mini induction.
Our industrial heritage – run by the local History Group from Westleigh village along with info from our own site archives prepared over the years by the late Roy Fenn and Alice Cox.
What are our products used for? – helped by our technical team we were able to explain were our products come from, how they are crushed and screened then finally what they are used for.
Quarry wildlife –a nature walk along with talks given by Maureen Tallis, Delia Shannon, Simon Wiltshire and Devon Wildlife Trust were thoroughly enjoyed by all. We took visitors to some of our restored areas where the geology was also explained. We then walked along our newly opened circular footpath encompassing the entire operation and the Grand Western Canal.
Quarrying today – presented by our on site shotfiring team, they showed everybody how we profile and design a blast, visitors had a chance to use a scanner, dip holes for accuracy, they looked around the drill rig, explosives truck and were able to view load n haul demo’s as well as being able to sit in the machines themselves.
Back at the marquee Aggregate Supplies and Bardon Concrete had vehicles and products on display. A climbing wall and bouncy castle kept the kids entertained whilst their parents sampled food cooked by fundraisers from the local United Reform Church, Burlescombe Church, Burlescombe School, Burlescombe Nursery and Youth Club. A farmers market sold visitors locally produced goodies to take home.