Hereford's Hidden Waterways

Find out more about how Herefordshire Lore are uncovering stories of Hereford's waterways through the Hereford ~ River City project.

Herefordshire Lore is delighted to be working with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust on The National Lottery Heritage Fund project, Hereford ~ River City.

The project celebrates Hereford's network of waterways, including the Yazor, Canonmoor ("the Canny", also known as Widemarsh), Eign and Newton Brooks – by restoring habitats for wildlife and reconnecting people with these important natural spaces.

As part of River City, Herefordshire Lore are creating an oral history archive of memories from local people who have lived, worked or played beside the brooks, while also researching their fascinating history. Long before today's city developed, these waterways powered mills, supported wildlife, shaped neighbourhoods and provided generations of children with places to explore.

A young man sitting on a tree on the banks of the Canny Brook

One memory already recorded comes from David Cotton, who remembers long summer days playing along ‘the Canny’ with other choristers from Trinity Church.

A particular haunt for them was a willow tree – ‘It’s still there,’ says Dave. In his photo (as seen above) it’s 1958, and David (then a young Teddy Boy) sits on the willow tree alongside the brook, with an unrecognisable background. Now, meadows and fields have been filled with housing developments. Such a precious reflection on change and continuum.

If you have a story to share, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us via the details below.

There are also opportunities for volunteers to help with research and oral history interviewing. No experience is necessary – full training will be provided.

Join us for our first research session on Monday 7 September, 10.30am–12.30pm at HARC. And Oral history training will take place at HARC on Friday 11September, from 10.30 to 1.30.

To find out more, email info@herefordshirelore.org.uk or call Marsha on 07989 733870.