Cash boost for Rotherham's 'hidden gem'

A £7,826 boost will help give the Fitzwilliam Canal in Rotherham a makeover and make it easier for visitors to learn about its wildlife.

TWO nature projects will be nurtured by grants of more than £17,000 from the Big Lottery Fund.

Groundwork Dearne Valley community project officer Elise Munby said: “The site is a hidden gem in the industrial landscape surrounding it, many of the nearby residents don’t even know of its existence.

“We hope that by getting local young people involved and giving them an input into the design of interpretation boards through workshops with local artists the profile of the site will be raised.

“We hope that work will begin in June 2011 and these improvements will ensure the canal is a site for future generations to be proud of.”

Wingfield Business and Enterprise College has been awarded £9,200 for its community garden, which provides environmental resources for pupils and groups.

BLF regional head Paul Jones said: “Our community wildlife programme is all about supporting projects that get people of all ages and backgrounds working together to improve and protect their local wildlife.

“This funding will enable people across the region to enjoy the natural environment and help protect and preserve local habitats and threatened wildlife for future generations.”

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