A river is set for a new lease of life as restoration projects are well under way.

The River Blackwater at Bocking will be reshaped by two schemes, undertaken by the Environment Agency and Essex Wildlife Trust.

Previously the river has been heavily modified to improve land drainage and reduce flood risk, which created a number of problems and affected the fish habitat.

Schemes will reduce erosion and flood risk, as well as improve the habitat and the ecology of the river. It will also provide recreation opportunities for the local community and angling club.

See this week's Braintree and Witham Times for more.