We're joining forces with the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority to tidy Swan and Pike Pool, near Enfield Lock, and we're are hoping to recruit a team of volunteers to help us.
Work includes removing invasive weed, collecting litter and cutting back vegetation.
Once a bathing pool and a turning point for barges that serviced the nearby Gunpowder Mills, it's thought that the pool was named after the pub, The Swan and Pike, which was once situated on the site, but demolished in 1921.
Debbie Vidler, Canal & River Trust volunteer co-ordinator, says: “Swan and Pike Pool has quite a bit of history behind it, so we want to clean it up and bring it back into a manageable state. The more volunteers that can help the better. So if you're interested in the River or just keen to do some work outdoors with like-minded people, then I'd definitely recommend it. The local community do so much to look after the River, and it's events like this that are so crucial to us improving it even more in the future.”
Paul Roper, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager said: “We're pleased to assist in cleaning up the Swan and Pike Pool. I hope that we'll have lots of people from the surrounding communities assisting us on the day. Completing these kinds of projects is always fulfilling for those involved and we have plenty more volunteering opportunities like this across Lee Valley Regional Park.”
The event takes place from 10am-3pm, meeting just off Swan and Pike Road, Enfield, EN3 6GQ. Hot drinks, soup and rolls will be provided. There are no skills required for this task and all safety procedures and work instructions will be given on the day; you just need to be willing to get stuck in and get your hands dirty. Old clothes and protective footwear are recommended.
