The River Medlock runs through the heart of East Manchester, passing through Clayton Vale, Philips Park, Eastlands, Holt Town and the city centre to join the River Irwell at Castlefield.
In days gone by, the Industrial Revolution exacted a heavy toll on the river, with factories and waste tips lining its banks. However recent restoration of the river and its landscape has seen a massive improvement in water quality and the return of fish and other wildlife.
The improvements in the Medlock Valley were recognised with a regeneration award at the BURA Waterways Renaissance Awards in 2009.