Lib Dem Councillors call for vote on best river

Liberal Democrat Cllrs Nick Charsley, Harrold Ward, and Anita Gerard, Kingsbrook Ward, are calling on residents across Bedford Borough to help put Bedford and its river, the Great Ouse, at the top of the table of best loved rivers. Both wards back onto the river and both Councillors feel that it is one of the jewels of the Borough, so much so that we should all make a big fuss about it.

The WWF, RSPB and Angling Trust have come together to create the 'Our Rivers' campaign and are now looking for the best, and worst, rivers from across the UK.

Cllr Charsley, who until recently was the portfolio holder responsible for the river on Bedford Borough Council, said, "The Great Ouse is such a wonderful asset to the area and is used by many residents for leisure activities. Whether it's fishing, walking, paddle sports, or the numerous other ways you can enjoy the river I think most people would agree that it is worth having at the top of the nations list of best rivers."

Cllr Gerard added, "The great thing about this river is that even in the town it looks good and attractive. Look at the river festival this year. If this river, and the events upon it, can attract so many thousands of people then it should be top of the list, without a doubt."

Both Councillors are urging residents to log on to the Our Rivers website, at: www.ourrivers.org.uk and nominate the Great Ouse for best river. Currently the top three rivers are the River Wye, River Dart and River Thames. Followers will then be able to watch as the chart changes and hopefully The Great Ouse climbs to top place.