New benches installed at Little Hartham

Two new benches have been installed at Little Hartham, overlooking the winding hole at the head of the River Lee Navigaion.

The two benches mark the completion of The River Lea Art Trail, an installation of eleven upcycled and artistically decorated benches lining the towpath between Hertford and Ware.

Bench 10 was designed by local artist Donna Reeves and features a painted river scene with a proud kingfisher, as well as whimsical fantasy elements inspired by Cicely Mary Barker illustrations. 

Painted by students from Simon Balle School, Bench 11 showcases a vibrant tapestry of local wildlife and stands as a permanent symbol of student achievement and shared community pride. Students Verity, Elliette (both Year 7) and Carolina (Year 12) worked together to create their bench following a school-wide competition and have gained a wider appreciation for art outside of the classroom as a result.

Councillor Vicky Glover-Ward, Executive Member for Planning and Growth, said: "I am truly delighted to finally announce the completion of the River Lea Art Trail after many months of hard work by all those involved. These two benches make wonderful additions to the trail and offer an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to reflect and admire one of the town’s most popular scenes.  

"I must congratulate all the artists involved, whilst also offering my thanks to them and our other partners for all their endeavours. I am especially proud to have had Simon Balle School get involved in the project, which has always been one with the local community at heart.

"I am grateful to have been able to play my own small part in the creation of the magical Bench 10, which uniquely features floorboards recycled from my house, as well as two locally salvaged tree trunks! I look forward to seeing the benches get plenty of use over the coming weeks, months and years - it fills me with joy to know they will feature in many treasured memories."