The Water of Leith is flows from the Pentlands through the heart of Edinburgh to Leith, and it takes a bit of work to keep the river looking it’s best. The Water of Leith Conservation Trust organise regular clean-ups along the stretch of water, and Inverleith Community Learning and Development worker Callum McLeod was involved in the latest spruce-up on 29 July.
He said: “I’d walked the route with Ben from the Conservation Trust and there was no shortage of things to do! Thankfully we had a good team of volunteers on the Sunday and we tackled some troublesome Himalayan Balsam, which is a very invasive flowering plant, and there were a number of log jams to clear. There were also some lighter lighter duties – tending to the formal garden areas and there was no shortage of litter all the way along, unfortunately – but that meant there was something for everyone to do.”
Tons of rubbish cleared from the water and riverbanks tidied up!
It does take a lot of work to keep the Water of Leith looking good, but you can do your bit as a volunteer – check out the website at www.waterofleith.org.uk Among the rewards – apart from the exercise, companionship and fresh air – is a chance to see birds like sparrowhawks and kingfishers up close, and an amazing variety of wildflowers along the banks. It’s like being in the country in the middle of the city!
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