Everyone’s invited to take part in this year’s community Rivercare Clean Up

volunteers carrying blue sacks and litterpicking equipment are walking across a bridge in Bedford as part of the Rivercare Clean Up event
Rivercare volunteers. Image: Bedford Borough Council

If you would like to do your bit to help make Bedford better, then why not sign up to take part in this year’s Rivercare Clean Up event on Saturday, 22 March.

Everyone is invited to the annual litter-picking event which will focus on the riverside between Bedford Town Bridge and St Mary’s Gardens.

As well as land-based volunteers, kayakers will be clearing the banks from their vantage point in the river and the Environment Agency will be on hand to help out too.

“Maintaining the beauty and health of our riverside is a community effort, and the annual Rivercare Clean Up is a perfect example of that,” said Cllr Nicola Gribble (Independent, Renhold and Ravensden), Bedford Borough Council’s portfolio holder for environment.

“It’s great fun and a good opportunity to meet new people. I encourage everyone to come along and contribute – even a small amount of time can make a big difference to this valuable green space.”

All litter-picking equipment is provided by the council and volunteers will be serving refreshments from the John Bunyan Boat which will be moored up at St Mary’s Gardens.

A view of the River Great Ouse from St Mary's Gardens featuring a family taking part in the Rivercare Clean Up event
Everyone’s invited to take part in the Rivercare event, especially families. Image: Bedford Borough Council

The first 50 volunteers that visit The Longholme Cafe on the day will recevie a complimentary tea or Americano coffee and all volunteers that book ahead for lunch or brunch will receive a 10% discount.

Everyone taking part can take advantage of free parking at Borough Hall.

To take part, simply wear suitable clothing and sturdy boots and meet next to Bedford Town Bridge in St. Mary’s Gardens at 10am on Saturday, 22 March.

You can find the location easily using What3Words: ///bowls.rushed.translated. Children are welcome to join in but must be accompanied by a parent or carer at all times.

For more information or to enquire about volunteering, please contact Bedford Borough Council at volunteering@bedford.gov.uk

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