A marshland which underwent a two-year project to restore it to its former glory was officially opened by the Mayor of Harrow.

Stanmore Marsh Wetlands, in Marsh Lane, Harrow, now has a 400m footpath and a network of restored wetlands and ditches.

The four acre site was opened by Mayor of Harrow Cllr Margaret Davine on Wednesday, June 28, after the project was completed by Thames21 and Harrow Council.

The wetlands used to be full of wildlife and part of it was known as Toad Pond however, over the years it dried up and became neglected, which meant the chance of flooding increased.

Vicky D’Souza, Stanmore Marsh project officer at Thames21, was “impressed” at the number of people who turned up to see the new wetlands – including pupils from Whitchurch Primary School, in Stanmore, who took part in a nature walk and had a dip in the river.

She said: “It has been great watching the site transform and watching Harrow Council, residents and community and school groups work together to grow and help restore this wetland.

“It was amazing to see so many new and familiar people to the project joining in the activities including led nature walk and river dipping sessions.

“It was also great to see people help celebrate at the ribbon cutting ceremony with the Mayor of Harrow and pupils from Whitchurch Primary School who have been learning about their local wetland.”