MEMBERS of the Action for the River Kennet group were thrilled to find out that its work at the Stonebridge Wild River Reserve resulted in an Outstanding rating at the South West in Bloom ceremony.

ARK were proud to be presented with the achievement during the annual South West in Bloom ceremony in Taunton on Thursday (October 6). The group was presented with the away as part of SWIB’s It’s Your Neighbourhood awards.

Anna Forbes, ARK project manager, said: “Stonebridge is a long-term project and has had, and continues to have, input from so many individuals and groups of all ages. Most of it would be impossible without our brilliant volunteers, who much in to a variety of tasks in all weathers, throughout the seasons.”

The meadow, owned by Marlborough Town Council and ARK, was described as excellent throughout with the judges praising the level of public participation and the community engagement from ARK.

“From river restoration to hedge maintenance, litter picking to wildlife surveying. I would also like to acknowledge the input from Marlborough Town Council, particularly head groundsmen Richard Beale,” added Miss Forbes.

The river reserve, which was bought in 2011 between ARK and the town council, has been managed by a management plan with the emphasis to preserve the natural space.

“As towns expand it is really important these green spaces, particularly flood plain, which act like a sponge during in the wetter months, are protected both for the abundance of wildlife that depend on these areas and for people to enjoy. Since 2011 many projects and events have gone on at Stonebridge and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. It is also of course a lovely place to enjoy anytime,” Miss Forbes said.