The River Hiz in Hitchin is set to receive its annual clean in the week commencing Monday, January 23.

Ths sections of the river outside St Mary's Church and Peppermint Court in Whinbush Road operate via a 'balancing tank' system which - with the sluice gates which help retain river water - create a more visually appealing and deeper river in the centre of town.

However, if the silt and sludge in the tanks are not removed they can obstruct the flow in the tanks. They will now be removed, as well as general rubbish.

The Comet: The water will be drained from the River Hiz on Friday, January 20.The water will be drained from the River Hiz on Friday, January 20. (Image: North Herts Council)

The water will be drained on Friday, January 20 and refilled from Friday, January 27, after the cleaning work has been completed.

Sarah Kingsley, place director at North Herts Council, said: “This annual work is important in maintaining the river in the centre of Hitchin, helping it to flow freely, helping maintain it as a vital habitat for ducks and other birds and wildlife, and visually appealing.

"The work will take place during the day and will cause minimal disruption to the surrounding areas.”