ONE of the oldest tidal shipping quays on the River Wye has been reinvigorated after being weeded, scrubbed up and enjoying a major facelift.

Brockweir Quay is the last remaining stone-built quay of its time on the Wye. Believed to have been built in around 1750 it was the furthest point on the tidal river that could be reached by seagoing vessels. Once docking at the quay, goods would be unloaded onto shallow 'trows' which would be sailed or hauled upriver to Herefordshire by 'bow hauliers'. The mix of seafarers, ship-builders, farmers, hauliers, squatters and more than 20 pubs and cider houses was an explosive cocktail and the quay found itself at the hub of a bustling village which earned a reputation as both lawless and Godless.

With the end of river traffic, the quay slowly fell into disrepair, sprouting knotweed and regularly being coated in a thick layer of silt.

Restoration work took place through the year via The Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's 'Overlooking the Wye' Project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Gloucestershire Environment Trust.

Working between the tides, experts from Strachey Conservation, repointed stonework, and cleared out the weeds and silt, to extend the life of the quay for another generation. Commemerative plaques have also been made and placed on the quay by Ned Heywood of the Workshop Gallery, Chepstow.

Kate Biggs, Overlooking the Wye Project Officer said: "Strachey Conservation have done a wonderful job in conserving the quay for future generations. It is an asset to the village and demonstrates the positive effect that valuing and conserving our heritage can have on a place."