Volunteers split into teams to carry out a range of task to look after the Water of Leith walkway, including cutting back overgrown vegetation, sweeping up leaves and litter picking locally to stop rubbish getting into the river.

The clean-up formed part of Interlaw’s Annual Global Meeting in Edinburgh, where senior lawyers from over 80 countries gathered for four days of knowledge-sharing and international collaboration. This year marks the first time the conference has been hosted in Scotland for almost 40 years.

Edinburgh-headquartered MFMac – this year’s host – organised the clean-up event as a way to make a positive impact and help protect the natural environment that makes Edinburgh a beautiful and inspiring place to live and work.

Chris Harte, chief executive officer at Morton Fraser MacRoberts, said: “Interlaw is a powerful network bringing hundreds of delegates to Edinburgh and this clean-up has been a great opportunity to give something back to our host city while they’re visiting. 

“The Water of Leith is a landmark that flows through many of Edinburgh’s local communities, so it’s been a privilege to organise a meaningful activity to protect it. We know how packed our colleagues’ schedules are so we’re grateful to everyone who rolled up their sleeves!”

Johnny Wells, ranger from the Water of Leith Conservation Trust, added: “The Water of Leith is an amazing green corridor for both people and wildlife in Edinburgh, support like this makes a real difference allowing us to care for it.

“We’re very grateful to MFMac for involving us in their programme and for highlighting the importance of looking after this special place.”