A group of local organisations and residents gathered in Luton's Leagrave Park on Friday 29 May to celebrate the improvements made to the Source of the River Lea.

Over the past eight months or so, work has been carried out at the Source by a variety of hard-working volunteer groups alongside Groundwork Luton & Bedfordshire and specialist contractors. Together they have improved access to the river, opened up the glorious view along it and overseen the creation of interpretation panels to increase the public’s appreciation of this historic site.

All of this work is thanks to funding from Biffa Award and the Luton Airport Community Fund as well as partnership working with Luton Borough Council.

At the celebration event, guests heard from Groundwork's Steve Harvey and Gill Taylor about the nature of the organisation and its role as co-host of the Luton Lea Catchment Partnership. Luton Borough Council's Trevor Tween gave a fascinating overview of the site's role in local history and its significance for wildlife.

Groundwork's Christian paired up with local volunteer Christian to explain the value of volunteering at the site - as well as being able to play a central role in making the area more inviting for members of the public, Christian was able to meet new people, learn new skills and improve his confidence, all in the great outdoors.

After a much-needed warming cup of tea, guests were led on an educational walk along the Source of the River Lea and through Rotten Spinney, enjoying the bark and board walk and learning about the local flora and fauna.

A conservation volunteer explains the work he did at the Source    Trevor Tween tells the group about the local wildlife and how it's been managed through the work.

A conservation volunteer explains the work he did at the Source; Trevor Tween tells the group about the local wildlife and how it's been managed through the work.

Despite the rain and wind, it was a brilliant afternoon and we all enjoyed seeing the work now it's really settled into the landscape. Why not visit for yourself, and find out more about the site through the brand new interpretation panels?

Guests braved the weather to celebrate the achievements at the Source of the River Lea

Design by LTD Design Consultants and build by Garganey Consulting.