A HEREFORDSHIRE town is revamping a popular trail as an overflowing ditch has been "devastating" for locals.

Over the past few years, much of Ledbury's Town Trail has become overgrown and neglected, putting off walkers who want to enjoy the path.

But a section of the trail is set to be transformed following a grant from Severn Trent's Community Fund.

This will improve the area for walkers as well as the ditch running between Bridge Street and Woodleigh Road.

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The ditch alongside has become clogged up, which hasn't helped the drainage of rainwater from the path or the diversity of plant life.

Following a successful application from local community group Sustainable Ledbury, Severn Trent has awarded £3,462 towards the clean-up of the area.

The grant will enable the group to dig out debris from the ditch and stream, cut back the overgrown vegetation, remove litter and plant marginal plants that are in keeping with the area.

The project will improve the appearance of the area and allow the stream to flow more freely, enhancing the habitat for local wildlife.

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Information boards will be placed along the footpath, educating walkers on the history of the town, as well as providing information about the flora and fauna to be found along the trail.

Nina Shields, sustainable Ledbury's project leader, said it has been devastating to see the stream choked by debris and litter.

"Improving and maintaining the stream will reduce flooding onto the path in heavy rain and improve the quality of the water draining into the river Leadon," she said.

"We know from residents whose gardens back on to this part of the trail that there are newts, frogs, toads, and slow worms in the area.

"They will benefit from a richer habitat, and we also hope to see bats again.

"We're so grateful for the grant from Severn Trent.

"Thanks to them, this project will complement the work we've already done to improve the area. It will be great to see the trail used more frequently as we progress with the project and we're looking forward to seeing a wider range of wildflowers flourishing."