Bedford Borough Council is inviting all local residents to join a community Rivercare Clean Up event on Saturday 22 March 2025 from 10am-12pm.

“Maintaining the beauty and health of our riverside is a community effort, and the annual Rivercare Clean Up is a perfect example of that,” says Councillor Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Bedford Borough Council. “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.”

The clean-up will focus on the area alongside the river near Bedford Town Bridge in St Mary’s Gardens. Volunteers will be tasked with litter picking along the riverside, with support from kayakers clearing the banks. The Environment Agency will also be present to assist.

Here’s what you can expect at the event:

All litter-picking equipment is provided by Bedford Borough Council.

Support from kayakers, and the Environment Agency.

Refreshments provided by The John Bunyan Boat, moored in St Mary’s Gardens.

A complimentary tea/Americano coffee for the first 50 volunteers who visit The Longholme on the day. 

10% discount on sit-in lunch/brunch at The Longholme for volunteers who book ahead and mention the event in the booking notes, visit www.thelongholme.com to book.

Free parking is available in Bedford Borough Hall car park for all participants.

Getting involved is easy!

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

Teams at Bedford Borough Council install, maintain and empty 1,800 litter, dog, layby and dual recycling bins throughout Bedford Borough and are regularly out clearing litter. Residents can support these teams by reporting a major litter problem, overflowing or damaged street bins at www.bedford.gov.uk/litter

Bedford Borough Council also welcomes local groups who wish to organise their own Community Clean Ups, details of how to do this can be found at www.bedford.gov.uk/leisure-parks-and-sport/parks-and-open-spaces/get-involved/community-volunteering

Let’s work together to keep Bedford’s riverside beautiful!