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The River and Park has the potential to be the jewel in Grimsby's Crown, as it offers so many opportunities for recreational and educational activities as well as being unique within North East Lincolnshire being the only park with a river flowing through. There are large open spaces and beautiful gardens as well as play areas and community buildings. If you want to read further when read more is displayed, double click on the title of the article to open up the remainder. This will work on all but this current aricle. For many years the Duke of York Gardens and River Freshney had suffered from mindless vandalism and fly tipping which resulted in the park losing most of its features. People were scared to go onto the park because the gangs of youths, vandals and bullies. 85% of local children wouldn't use the park because of the associated problems and lack of facilities and as they are situated in one of the most deprived areas of the UK, regeneration is essential for the health of the community and young people.The Friends of the Freshney formed 5 years ago when founder and Chairman Chris Scott returned from working in the Southern USA, he was shocked at the state of the river and park. Seeing his local environment with a fresh set of eyes, Chris decided that something needed to be done before it was too late. Since then the Friend's have removed over 12 tonnes of rubbish, provided art projects, raised funds and have engaged the community in all kinds of activities from Pond Dipping and Nature Trails to Litter Picks and River Clearances. By engaging the community, the Friends of the Freshney are educating people to appreciate the diversity of the wildlife and are restoring pride in the community; we are committed to improving and enhancing the river for the benefit of all. We care passionately about the many different species of wildlife that inhabit the River Freshney and surrounding areas. There is a healthy population of Water Voles which are a protected species and are currently the most endangered mammal in Britain today. Other species include all kinds of water fowl and many different fish including some gigantic Pike and Carp. Since the Friends were formed we have worked tirelessly in raising awareness to the plight of the River and Park and have worked closely with numerous local schools and community groups to help educate people young and old.
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Welcome to the Friends of the Freshney's Home Page where you can access all kinds of information relating to the River Freshney, Duke of York Gardens and surrounding areas.