Council makes history, scooping a second national green award

Three Rivers District Council made history on Friday November 9, after becoming the only local authority in the country to receive two national Green Apple Awards for work on the same project. The Withey Beds Local Nature Reserve in Rickmansworth was first commended for environmental best practice in 2005, with the second Green Apple Award from The Green Organisation recognising the site once again in 2007.

The popular Withey Beds site was purchased by the District Council in 2001, with the aim of turning it into a Local Nature Reserve for the whole community to enjoy. Regular family events and activities are held at the site, which is home to rare insects, animals and plants. Volunteer group The Friends of the Withey Beds also provides invaluable support.

Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Councillor Martin Trevett, said:

"We are delighted that our work at The Withey Beds has received national recognition once again. Sites like these and the wildlife they protect are so important in Three Rivers and with the help of groups such as Friends of the Withey Beds, we will continue to work to preserve them for future generations."

The awards are co-ordinated by The Green Organisation, an independent international environment group backed by the Environment Agency and other organisations. The presentation ceremony took place at the House of Commons on Friday November 9.