LNER backing enables community-led conservation of the River Aire

The Aire Rivers Trust is working to protect and enhance the River Aire and its tributaries, engaging local communities in monitoring and restoration efforts. Through its Riverfly programme, the charity partners with volunteers to track eight groups of invertebrates in Yorkshire’s rivers, gathering data that identifies areas affected by pollution.

Support from the LNER Customer and Community Investment Fund (CCIF) has allowed the Trust to expand the programme into Leeds, recruiting and training additional volunteers. These citizen scientists collect critical information that highlights vulnerable sections of the river and informs future conservation projects.

A short film produced by LNER highlights the work of volunteers from the Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods, who, with guidance from the Aire Rivers Trust, are helping to improve biodiversity along Leeds Beck.

Sam Riley-Gunn, Citizen Science & River Worth Officer for the Aire Rivers Trust, said:

“The funding from LNER is allowing us to expand our project to create and sustain improvements in the River Aire, enhancing water quality and the ecosystems in the river. We have been able to train local environmental groups, meaning communities are able to get actively involved with the regeneration and maintenance of their local river. We’re grateful to LNER for their support.”

Rachael Wilson, Community Investment Manager for LNER, said:

“The work carried out by the Aire Rivers Trust not only improves the quality of river life, but it also improves the quality of life for the local community. Through its Riverfly programme the charity empowers both young and older members of the community to be actively involved in the improvement of their surrounding environment. LNER is incredibly proud to support their work.”

Image: LNER