A MAJOR environmental initiative aimed at improving and preserving the River Ribble has been launched.

The Ribble Valley Initiative, a partnership between local authorities, businesses, conservation groups and schools, and backed by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, was launched at the Gibbon Bridge Hotel, Chipping.

To mark the occasion, BBC TV gardening expert Pippa Greenwood presented a commemorative bench to Chipping Parish Council.

Several schools taking part in the Tidy Britain Group's Eco-School project were also presented with £200 grants to support their work.

The Ribble, the most ecologically important river in Lancashire, runs through the boroughs of Ribble Valley, South Ribble, Preston and Craven.

Local authorities in these areas have joined forces with Lancashire County Council, British Aerospace, North West Water, the Environment Agency, community groups and schools to improve the catchment of the Ribble.

They aim to improve and enhance the river and its environment for the enjoyment of future generations. The initiative will promote features along the river, raise awareness of how pollution from agriculture and industry can harm it and create better habitats for wildlife through tree and shrub-planting, clean-up schemes, footpath and bridleway improvements and special wildlife and conservation areas. Spokesman Ron Freethy, who is also the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Grimewatch co-ordinator, praised those involved with the scheme.

He said: "There is no point in launching this initiative unless we can sustain it.

"We need the enthusiasm and commitment of conservation volunteers, but also the support of local firms and businesses to give us muscle, as well as North West Water and the Environment Agency.

"The River Ribble is an excellent asset. Let's keep it that way."

Cheques were presented to Stonyhurst College, Edisford Primary School, Clitheroe; Bowland High School, Grindleton; and the Cli- theroe Young Ornithologists' Club.

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