Critically endangered molluscs in Cumbria have recieved a four-figure boost to help secure their future.

Drigg and Carleton Community Fund have kindly pledged £5,000 worth of support towards West Cumbria Rivers Trust’s work on the River Irt as part of a national project to conserve the critically endangered freshwater mussel. 

This money, matched with extra from Biffa Award, will be used to deliver habitat improvement projects such as fencing off the river from livestock, planting trees, coppicing existing trees, stabilising river banks and battling with invasive species. 

All of these works aim to reduce the amount of soil getting into the river and improve the habitat within the river for the enjoyment of people and wildlife.

The molluscs in Cumbria are England's last breeding population of freshwater mussels.

For more information about the project or to find out how to get involved contact the PiP project officer on 017687 44347 or visit www.westcumbriariverstrust.org