Environment honours for region’s canals

CANALS IN Ripon and Pocklington have gained Green Flag Awards, joining just 11 other Canal and River Trust sites across the country in being recognised.

The Green Flag scheme, run by Keep Britain Tidy, celebrates the country’s best open spaces.

The 9.5-mile Pocklington Canal, in its 200th anniversary year, was recognised for its ecological management as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, which sees it attract kingfishers, bank voles and all sorts of invertebrates.

Ripon Canal, which stretches 2.5 miles, was honoured for its importance to the local community and environment.

Pocklington Canal project officer Lizzie Dealey said: “We know that canals improve the wellbeing of those who visit.

“We’re thrilled that Pocklington Canal has been recognised with a Green Flag Award in its bicentenary year, highlighting how important this waterway is for the community, visitors, and wildlife.

“Everyone who volunteers or donates is helping to make our waterways such special places where people can come to boost their wellbeing, so we thank them all for their continued support.”

Across the UK, six new Canal and River Trust sites were given Green Flag Awards, while seven retained their awards, including the Peak Forest Canal in the Peak District.