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Grey Heron at Northenden Weir

A grey heron standing near the bottom of the weir at Northenden. (It can be seen in SJ8390 : River Mersey Weir, Northenden).

The heron is a symbol of the improvement to the river's water quality since the 1980s. During the nineteenth century, the increase in industry along the banks of the Mersey caused it to become one of the most polluted rivers in Europe and wildlife was virtually wiped out. It is only relatively recently that fish have been once again been able to survive in the river. Of course the heron's presence could also symbolise the decline of the local industry.

Link for more photos of this heron