A new slipway has been installed beside the River Great Ouse in Earith thanks to granting funding from a construction firm.

Huntingdon-based Mick George Ltd contributed £22,500 towards the installation of a slipway and garden area for gaining access to the river, and for general outdoor activities.

This area is located at the back of Earith Village Hall and has a small car-park positioned nearby. The work on the slipway saw overgrown foliage and weeds cleared and landscaped into an attractive new area for residents to enjoy.

Councillor Mandy Pink, of Earith Parish Council, said: “The end result has been fantastic, and we have received nothing but positive praise from villagers who are utilising the facility. The parish council, together with the Mick George Community Fund, has transformed a derelict, unusable area into a haven of tranquillity and enjoyment.”

The slipway will provide safe accessibility for all river users, not only village inhabitants. The river is part of the Ouse Valley Way Area of Outstanding Beauty, with the new amenity certainly befitting of its locality. Volunteers will maintain the location to ensure it remains clean and tidy.

And the improvements aren’t due to stop there. Plans have already been made for a First and Second World War memorial lectern to be installed as the garden is being dedicated as a remembrance area for the village. The lectern will bear the names of the fallen from Earith.

Stuart Costello, marketing director at Mick George, said: “For many years the residents of Earith have supported our business in various capacities and we remain grateful for that. We’re always mindful that the village lies adjacent to our core operating areas, so do our upmost to assist with any development works that need funding in the area.”

Mr Costello added: “Those who reside in Earith and the surrounding areas are fortunate to have such beautiful landscapes on their doorsteps, it is only fair that they are able to take satisfaction from them. We’re certain the recent changes will allow that to happen for generations to come.”