The future of water voles in the Wye Valley is looking brighter, thanks to a grant of almost £46,000. The grant has been received by the Monnow Rivers Association and will be used to fund their 'Water Voles on the Wye' project.

The aim of the project is to expand the range and extent of water voles on the Rivers Wye and Monnow. The water vole is the UK's fastest disappearing mammal, having endured a 97 per cent population decline because of loss of habitat and predation by the American Mink.

Water Voles on the Wye will be working closely with landowners and volunteers to implement two years of mink control and habitat management. The work will be carried out in partnership with the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, among others.

The grant has been made by the Sita Trust, a non-profit organisation dedicated to making lasting improvements to the natural environment.