SHOPPING trolleys were amongst the ton of rubbish pulled out of the River Hyndburn during a clean-up in Church.

Twelve people took part in a new project to revitalise streams and rivers.

Mark Hopley, Prospects Co-ordinator, said: "We carried out the clean up at Church to raise people's awareness about caring for rivers. The rubbish was taken off the site straight away by the Environment Agency."

River Enhancement East Lancashire (REEL), is East Lancashire's newest River Valley Initiative, part of the expanding Mersey Basin Campaign network. The partnership covers the Calder catchment in Hyndburn, Burnley and Pendle and since last October has worked to set up activities to highlight the key issues affecting the river corridor, such as stream cleans, guided walks and conservation projects.

The initiative was officially launched with a wide variety of events and attractions to get people involved. There was a photographic exhibition, "REEL Life Along the River", with prizes for the best shots, as well as displays by over twenty local community and voluntary groups. Henna painter Samra Quraishi demonstrated an ancient traditional craft and everyone got the chance to try willow weaving.

REEL Co-ordinator Judy Yacoub, said: "The launch went really well despite the lousy weather. We managed to hold the events indoors and we were really pleased with the turnout."

Young visitors had plenty to do with pond dipping, nest box building and environmental games, and story telling sessions by Pam Jelley. There was also an opportunity to try out specially adapted handcycles, designed for disabled people.

REEL Chairman Arthur Micklewright, said: "REEL's future success depends on involving the public in its efforts to improve the waterside environment. We hope that the wide range of events will spark a lasting interest in caring for rivers and streams in our area."

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