Llynfi Valley
River Care Group
A voluntary environmental group
who are passionate about their Valley and strive to keep it looking attractive
through their efforts. Members range from all walks of life – youth to senior
citizens, including the Town Mayor.
The Llynfi River is a haven for wildlife and recreation and our mission is to
free it from litter and dumped waste.
We achieve this by meeting weekly at designated areas between the months
of March-October to clean a section of the riverbed and banking. The material
we remove ranges from three-piece suites, scooters, highway cones and obligatory
shopping trolleys. This all adds to the cornucopia of waste that people
generally deposit in our perceived liquid dustbin. Over 10 tons of waste has
been cleared so far this season, which is sorted and recycled at our community
waste and recycling plant.
To promote our cause and support our education plans we target areas that have
high visibility and impact such as the Town centre and river crossings. Through
our actions, signage and publicity we endeavour to promote the importance and
benefits of a clean environment, striving to encourage residents to change
attitudes and behaviour. The Group undertakes projects of planting shrubs,
flowers and wild plants along accessible stretches of banks, which enhances the
River environment for the public and has improved the habitats of birds, insects
and river wildlife.
Over the years there has been a
noticeable improvement, with a commendation from the Environment Agency;
however, lots of work still to be done.
The Group meet on the last Thursday of each month at 6.30 pm in the Council
Offices (March to November) – new members always very welcome, even if you only
want to be involved in the clean-up projects, etc.
During the recess period
(November to March) the Group continue to clear the river banks of litter etc.
Members of the Group encourage the Schools within the Community to help promote awareness of the River environment and several talks on the river’s educational value have been given to local schools, together with organising a Poster Competition to encourage civic pride in the younger generation. The posters have been used to promote awareness to members of the public. A prize giving night was held in the Council Chambers with the Mayor presenting the prizes to the young winners.
Hot of the press: The Group have been presented with the 'Bernard Jones Memorial Trophy' for taking first place in the 'TIDY WALES AWARDS 2007' - River Improvement category - Congratulations