Less than 50 years ago, the River Wandle in South West London was officially a sewer. Last summer it was declared one of England’s 10 most improved rivers, supporting all sorts of wildlife and even spawning trout. One of the most recent projects, nearing completion, is the restoration of a branch of the river through Wandle Park in Croydon which until recently was buried in a culvert. It won’t be long before the newly excavated channel is reconnected to flow freely through the rejuvenated park, for everyone to enjoy.