THE fight is on to tackle the invasive weeds and litter threatening a popular Hereford site.

A new initiative by St James' and Bartonsham Community Association and Hereford Community Cleanup Group, is working to tackle the Himalayan balsam covering the riverbanks from the Old Bridge to the end of Bishop’s Meadow at Putson.

Himalayan balsam is an invasive plant and now covers more of UK riverbanks and fields.

It is the UK's tallest annual and the fastest growing, crowding out native species and eroding riverbanks.

Hereford Times: Bishops Meadow has invasive weeds eroding riverbanksBishops Meadow has invasive weeds eroding riverbanks

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The group has already started getting rid of the weeds in the area from Victoria Bridge to the disabled access path, but there is a lot more to do.

The group has already held a balsam bash at Bishop's Meadow but it is now looking for volunteers to help make a difference again, said a spokesperson.

The group has now organised a litter pick and will be meeting at the Bishop's Meadow end of Victoria Bridge on Saturday, June 11, at 10.30am to 12.30am.

Hereford Times: Bishops Meadow is a popular park in Hereford next to the riverBishops Meadow is a popular park in Hereford next to the river

There will be a demonstration on how best to tackle the balsam before volunteers are sent out along the riverbank.

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People are asked to bring gardening gloves and wear long sleeves, to protect against nettles, plus a bottle of water and perhaps a snack. 

They are also in need of help from canoeists to reach the areas at water level and from fisherman for the steeper banks near the Old Bridge.