The former Undertones frontman will attend the public meeting at Maldon Town Hall on 15 July at 7pm, to discuss the status of the River Chelmer and the Blackwater Estuary.

Several notable guests will form the discussion panel, hosted by Councillor Andrew Lay, Maldon Town Mayor.

They will include Dr Robin Price, Director of Quality and Environment at Anglian Water, a representative from the Environment Agency, along with Maldon's MP John Whittingdale, and singer-turned-environmental campaigner Feargal Sharkey.

Feargal Sharkey is best known as the former vocalist for punk band The Undertones, who released their debut single Teenage Kicks in 1978. For the last decade, however, Feargal has been a prominent campaigner for clean rivers throughout Britain.

Maldon Town Mayor, Councillor Andrew Lay with his wife Karen, Town Mayoress (Photo: Maldon Town Council)

Maldon Town Mayor, Councillor Andrew Lay, told Nub News Feargal is a 'very passionate' advocate of rivers, so the meeting will be a good opportunity to discuss the future of the River Chelmer and the Blackwater Estuary.

He said: "We'll be inviting all the heads of the local schools to come, as it's very important that all generations are represented here.

"Because we are all custodians of this river and this area.

"We need to make sure that we preserve it for the people who come after us."

Since Coronavirus restrictions have ended, Councillor Lay feels this will be a chance to meet the public face-to-face and hear their thoughts on how to protect the river and estuary.

He said: "They have always historically been an important part of our town, from when the first people settled in this area.

"We're really pleased to have put this panel together, and I think it's important to hear both sides of the matter."

Residents who wish to attend the meeting have been asked to book their place by calling 01621 857 373, or by sending an email.