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There is a new
face at the River Project.
We are very happy to welcome Jim Bunting into the
Project. He has joined us as Assistant River Projects
Officer for a year. He is already arranging a programme of
free fun events. And getting stuck into the practical side
of the project. Building a Tree Nursery clearing rubbish
from the river, dry stone wall building, footpath maintenance and
creation
The river Colne at Linthwaite. Many centuries ago, the River
Colne was the reason settlers decided to live and work in the
Colne Valley. Ever since then and up to the present day it has
been a source of life
The
Project led by Project Officer Mick Smith, works with community
groups and individuals as well as land managers and businesses,
carrying out practical projects up and down the valley.
Some
projects are simple and straightforward such as repairing stone
walls, planting trees, putting up bird boxes, and improving footpaths.
Others are more ambitious, such as surveying and recording the
distribution of traditional iron field gates in the valley and
helping to develop the River Colne Sculpture Trail. All make a
contribution towards improving the valley's environment.
As
well as practical work and workshops, each year brings fun events
such as dragonfly walks, bat nights and river picnics!
The
Project publishes its River Guardian newsletter two or three times
a year, and holds its River Forum twice a year - open to everyone
interested in the river, its wildlife and landscape. It is based
in the Rail and River Centre in the Civic Hall, Slaithwaite, and
since its beginning in 2001, has completed some 50 projects. |
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The canal and the river flow down the valley together, feeding
each other and working the old textile mills.
Funding
comes via a range of grants and sponsorships, including the National
Lottery, Kirklees Metropolitan Council, local businesses and charitable
organisations. The Project is run under the umbrella of Environmental
Alliance Ltd, a not-for-profit company dedicated to community-oriented
environmental projects in the Kirklees area.
The river Colne in winter.
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THE
VOLUNTEERS ROLE
The
River Colne Project relies heavily on the support and enthusiasm
of a huge number of volunteers. The projects we deliver
would simply not happen or be as successful as they are
if it wasn’t for the dedication of local volunteers.
I am grateful to all our current volunteers but we are always
looking for more. As projects develop and new projects start
there are always new and varied opportunities to be involved
with.
If
you would like to become involved in the River Project please
contact me for a chat.
Kind
regards
Mick
Smith
River
Colne Project Officer |
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