River Tales – a story of the Mersey

WARRINGTON Nature Conservation Forum (WNCF) hosted the premier over a new film “River Tales” which uncovers the hidden history of the Mersey through the memories and experiences of local people.
It is part of the four-year Artery of Life project, which is backed by Warrington and Halton borough councils and Natural England and funded by the Big Lottery and aims to encourage people to understand, appreciate and enjoy the outdoors through a wide range of activities appealing to everyone.
Project officer Anthony Brandreth unveiled the “talking heads” film at Risley Moss.
Its aim is to connect people from Warrington, Widnes and Runcorn and tell the story of the River Mersey through their memories and stories of the river.
Ultimate aim of the Artery of Life is to create an Upper Mersey Estuary Nature Reserve.
Mr Brandreth, said: “Among the various elements of the scheme, we hope to deliver ‘extraordinary encounters’ sessions allowing people to get up close and personal with local wildlife, through the ‘talking heads’ book, film and audio trail, to explore people’s memories of the last 50 years life in and around the river, and through ‘Wild Child’ – a place for children of pre-school age to access wild play opportunities with their parents and guardians”
Residents of Warrington, Widens and Runcorn will be the main beneficiaries but it is hoped that many others will visit the area as the word spreads.
WNCF chairman Geoff Settle said: “Twelve months ago Anthony came to Risley and painted a picture of his vision for the ‘Artery of Life’. It is great to see one of these products ‘River Tales’.
“It captures the environmental history of the estuary through the words, eyes, memories and interviews filmed over the last 6-8 months. It is a fascinating account and available on request to any groups, schools, clubs, societies etc who would like to view it”.
Mr Brandreth has interviewed several people, filmed bird ringing at Woolston Eyes, talked to members of the West Bank Boat Club at Spike Island talking about when they used to fish for shrimps, crab and flounder.
Then there is the account of why boats used to be deliberately scuttled at Wigg Island.
For further details or to get involved, contact Mr Brandreth on 01928 583905 or e-mail [email protected]