Hugging Trees on the Water of Leith

01/07/2025 29 min Temporada 3 Episodio 6
Hugging Trees on the Water of Leith

Listen "Hugging Trees on the Water of Leith"

Episode Synopsis

Over 12 miles long, the Water of Leith snakes through Edinburgh from Balerno to the Forth Estuary.  Formerly a working river and home to over 70 mills, it is now a nature reserve with a walkway along its length, which makes for a great walk. 
I met with Senior Ranger, Johnny Wells, to find out how the Water of Leith Conservation Trust manages the space and all its challenges.  Johnny was a terrific interviewee and entertained me thoughout my visit with tales of his past, his current role and how volunteers support the work of the Trust.   Johnny is a tree hugger and has had a surprising and fascinating career.   
We met at the Water of Leith visitor centre in Slateford and then walked towards Colinton. 
The Water of Leith visitor centre: here
The Water of Leith Conservation Trust website: https://www.waterofleith.org.uk/