Abigail Webber Somerset Catchment Partnership Coordinator Expand Abi first joined FWAG Southwest in 2013 as a Farm Liaison Officer on the Value of Working Wetlands (WOW) Project, before going on to coordinate the Fodder Bank for the Somerset Flood Recovery Project. Abi also worked as a Lower Catchment Farm Adviser on the Hills to Levels Project, delivering part of the land management workstream of the 20-year Flood Action Plan. Abi now coordinates the Somerset Catchment Partnership, which works collaboratively under the Catchment Based Approach (CaBA), to drive improvements to the water environment within the catchments of the Rivers Parrett, Tone, Axe, Brue and the West Somerset Streams.
Adam Lockyear Head of Advisory Services Expand Adam has been a farm conservation adviser for 8 years. He has worked on many stewardship agreements and climate change issues. Adam works on the Value of Working Wetlands Project covering the Somerset Levels and Moors working with farmers managing wet grassland habitats. He also runs a dairy goat farm for a cheese maker in Somerset.
Alex Butler Senior Farm Environment Adviser Expand Alex works from the Dorchester office and much of his spring and summer is spent helping farming clients apply for the Countryside Stewardship scheme. Other work includes organising training events on conserving farmland wildlife and managing both arable and grassland habitats.
Ali Morgan Senior Farm Environment Adviser Expand Ali Joined FWAG SW in September 2020 and works mainly in the Somerset Frome catchment, offering business critical advice to farmers and landowners on resource protection, Natural Flood Management, river restoration and land management to reduce pollution risks and enhance environmental benefits. Ali graduated from Reading University with a degree in Agriculture and has worked with farmers and land-managers in advisory and project management roles across the UK and overseas.
Alison Mitchell Farm Environment Adviser Expand Alison joined FWAG SW in September 2021 and works mainly in north-east Somerset. She is the facilitator for the Selwood Forest Facilitation Group. Alison has worked as a conservation adviser for over 15 years, since gaining a BSc Hons in Zoology from the University of Dundee. She has worked with farmers and landowners for over 10 years to develop land management plans and strategies which deliver both for wildlife and farm businesses. Prior to joining FWAG Alison has held roles with Plantlife, RSPB, local planning authorities and worked as a freelance ecologist. She has wealth of knowledge and experience of a wide range of plant and animal species and habitat conservation, such as farmland birds, breeding waders, mammals, and rare arable plants.
Aloysia Daros FWAG SouthWest Trustee and Chartered Accountant Expand Aloysia is a qualified chartered accountant and chartered tax advisor. She has worked for Smith & Williamson for over 10 years specialising in tax advice to Farms and Landed Estates. She grew up in Devon on a small holding and is a keen horse rider.
Ampney and Poulton Brooks (source to Thames) - GB106039030300 Catchment area 73.5km2, length 16km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 73.5km2, length 16km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Water body description Relatively small spring-fed gravel bed river flowing mainly in a southerly direction. Owing to the Cotswold inferior oolite limestone geology there is a large seasonal flow variation until it reaches Ampney Park. At Ampney St Peter it runs on gravel overlaying clay retaining a summer flow. It is joined by Poulton Brook (a largely dense shaded straight channel) downstream and meets the Thames in the parish of Latton. The channel is overlarge and incised by high winter flows along its course. There are remains of weirs and side channels from the historic network of water meadows and areas of extensive channel straightening, particularly in the downstream stretches. A river habitat survey in September 2013(1) identified areas of extensive shading from tree planting within Ampney St Peter and scrubby hedgerows downstream. Outside these areas, there was good aquatic and marginal vegetation and meandering form. The brook is healthy in the upper reaches before sewage works and diffuse pollution from arable land impact on it. Under cycle 1 2009-2012 the Brook was classified Bad for fish element due to barriers to fish movement, seasonal water levels, and crayfish predation. From 2014-2016, under cycle 2, it has reached a moderate status for both phosphates and fish. Land Use and Designations Surrounding land is used for arable and semi-improved pasture for grazing, managed by a few large and several small landowners and there is active gravel mining downstream towards the confluence with the Thames. There is abstraction at Latton and Meysey Hampton under an abstraction permit. There are a few footpaths crossing the upstream sections of channel, with greater access downstream from Latton to the Thames. There are light local fly fishing and access rights for Cotswold fly fishers. Flora from catchment walkover (September 2013) 1 Amphibious bistort, Branched Bur-reed, Canadian pondweed, Duckweed, Fool’s Water Cress, Iris, Lesser water-parsnip, Meadowsweet, Reed Canary Grass, Reed Sweet Grass, Water Crowfoot, Water forget-me-not, Watermint, Watercress, Woody nightshade. Fauna from catchment walkover (September 2013) 1 Signal crayfish present, good river fly life. Fish include minnows, bullhead, and brown trout, along with dace and chub further downstream. Signs of otter and water vole have been recorded through stretches of Ampney Brook. Riparian birds included typical pasture, hedgerow and woodland species, also kingfisher, grey wagtail and grey heron. Conclusions of the WILD parish reports (1) Ampney Brook is of high ecological value, with a significant downstream value being particularly suitable for brown trout. However, it is still extensively modified and would benefit from enhancement. There are also signs of nutrient enrichment downstream of the sewage works at Ampney St Peter. Poulton Brook is of significant ecological value for its linear scrub and tall ruderal vegetation and is an important habitat for breeding birds and invertebrates. It is unlikely to provide habitat for aquatic species due to the regular drying of the channel. Catchment Issues Ampney St Peter village has flood risk (to buildings within 90m of the river). There is no flood risk to the slightly elevated Poulton, Down Ampney or Latton villages or Driffield village. Signal crayfish Nutrient enhancement downstream of sewage works and diffuse pollution from farmland Water with Integrated Local Delivery (WILD) Project, Rivers Management Plans, Poulton Parish, St Peter Parish, Driffield Parish, Down Ampney Parish and Latton Parish (May 2016) Water Framework Directive Water Framework Directive 2016 Cycle 2 failing due to fish and phosphates (moderate status) http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039030300 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Angelique McBride Farm Environment Adviser Expand Angelique joined FWAG SW in 2017 and mainly works on the Hills to Levels project in Somerset, managing the Hills to Levels Multi-Benefit Project. She offers advice to farmers and landowners on natural flood management and river restoration, including the design and implementation, to reduce localised flooding issues and to also provide other multiple environmental benefits.
Ann Langdon Senior Farm Environment Adviser Expand Ann has worked for FWAG for the last 14 years. Her experience ranges from advising on and preparing agri-environment schemes to providing more specialist soil, water and grassland management advice. Recent work includes working on reducing flooding and diffuse pollution in Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire as well as managing projects like the EU funded Triple C project and the Stour Headwater Multi-benefit project
Anna Lantaff Assistant Farm Environment Adviser Expand Anna joined FWAG SW in March 2022 after completing a Diploma in Countryside Management at Sparsholt College Hampshire. With a BA in History & Archaeology from the University of Leicester, she worked as a commercial archaeologist in East Anglia before becoming interested in soil health and regenerative agriculture. She currently provides assistance to other members of the team with mapping, soil sampling, habitat surveys, and Countryside Stewardship applications.
Anne May Farm Environment Adviser Expand Anne has been working for FWAG since early 2018, mainly working across Exmoor. Initially she worked on the Exmoor Coastal Streams Facilitation Fund organising events for farmers, on the Headwaters of the Exe Project and on Countryside Stewardship applications. Currently she is working on the Headwaters of the Exe project, delivering advice to farmers on water quality improvements, soil health, grazing management, parasite control, farm infrastructure, and habitats and wildlife. Before joining the FWAG team Anne graduated from Harper Adams University having studied Countryside Management BSc Hons. She then worked for the Exmoor National Park Authority mapping moorland vegetation change from aerial photography. Anne farms alongside her husband on an Exmoor beef and sheep farm.
Antony 'Aj' Bellamy Regional Wetlands Adviser Expand Aj graduated from Plymouth University in 1996 and has worked mostly in Devon in the conservation land management and ecology sector; briefly for Devon Wildlife Trust, then RSPB for 15years based at the Exe Estuary Reserves. Within his role at FWAG SW, Aj is working with landowners within the somerset coastal levels to restore and recreate farm ponds and assisting in larger-scale wetland creation works within the Pawlett hams.
Beatrix Oliver GREAT Project Manager Expand Bea is delighted to have joined the team as project manager for the new Gloucestershire Regenerative Environment and Agriculture Transition (GREAT) project. Bea spent the past three years working at DEFRA, where she worked in Farming and ELM teams on social research, innovative evidence dissemination, and Tests and Trials. During that time, she also did an MSc in Food Policy, looking into which policy approaches could champion more types of value in farming, such as by using True Cost Accounting. Bea is delighted to be working in the charity sector, really getting stuff done. She loves leisurely cycling, low-tech camping, and walking, though she spends more time these days with her young daughter at the allotment.
Bel Whitwam Senior Farm Environment Adviser Expand Bel has 25 years experience of working alongside landowners to deliver effective Countryside Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship agreements which deliver for wildlife, wildlife habitats, clean water, healthy soils and help to strengthen our well-loved landscapes. She has worked as an adviser on Countryside Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship and more recently in Catchment Sensitive Farming and over the years has developed an expert knowledge on hedge and lowland meadow restoration. With FWAGSW she is now delivering advice on Countryside Stewardship schemes, Cross compliance, resource protection and soils advice and is leading on a project to deliver natural flood management in the Upper Coln.
Ben Thorne Senior Farm Environment Adviser Expand Ben has over 25 years’ experience working with farmers in Somerset and has recently led on the delivery of the land management workstream of the Somerset 20 Year Flood Action Plan – including heading up the Hills to Levels program. Ben specialises in agri-environment schemes, making the environment relevant for every farmer and Natural Flood Management. Ben also acts as Team Leader in Somerset.
Billy Watson Financial Controller Expand Billy joined FWAG in Dec 2019. After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1991 she has worked in the charity sector, mainly in environmental charities, but most recently in the hospice sector. Her work largely involves payroll, management accounts, statutory accounts, compliance & tax, ensuring that the charity ticks all the financial compliance boxes in the background & enabling effective decision-making. Despite being office-based, Billy loves to spend her free time outside, enjoying the natural world in a variety of activities, having grown up on Somerset’s Polden Hills.
Bydemill Brook (source to Thames) - GB106039023710 Catchment area 17km2, length 13.6km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Banner Image @Harry McGregor Catchment area 17km2, length 13.6km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description This waterbody rises to the north of Stratton St Margaret and flows in a northerly direction passing the village of Stratton and to the west of Highworth to join the River Thames near the village of Upper Inglesham which is south of Lechlade. Land Use and designations From the source the brook flows through woodland, a lake at Stanton Country Park (local nature reserve) and through farmland. It is crossed by the Thames path near the confluence with the Thames. Flora and Fauna Conclusions and Issues Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 (cycle 2) Moderate status owing to ‘Bad’ phosphate (from sewage discharge and poor nutrient management) and ‘Moderate’ Macrophyte and Phytobenthos elements. The waterbody has also in the past failed on invertebrates, dissolved oxygen and specific pollutants (ammonia and triclosan). It is likely to be technically infeasible and disproportionately expensive to achieve more than a Moderate Status. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039023710 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Caroline Fowle FWAG SouthWest Trustee and Chairman of Kingfisher Award Scheme (KAS) Expand Caroline lives on a farm in East Devon that is mainly organic and has stewardship schemes in place. She has a particular interest in helping young people understand the connection between food, farming and wildlife and has been chairman of the Kingfisher Award Scheme (KAS) for over 10 years.
Carolyn Jennings Office Manager Expand Carolyn has swapped Teachers for Advisers, joining FWAG in November 2016, from an education finance background. She is local to Wellington and enjoys the countryside from a walker’s perspective, having covered many miles on Dartmoor in particular. Keen to learn more about her surroundings she is enthusiastic about FWAG’s work and is being very hands on.
Cerney Wick Brook (source to Thames) - GB106039023800 Catchment area 18.3km2, length 6.2km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 18.3km2, length 6.2km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The Cerney Wick Brook runs along the parish boundary of Ashton Keynes and South Cerney, entering the parish of Ashton Keynes at the northerly extent and then running in a south-easterly direction, reaching the River Thames to the northwest of Cricklade. It is a very small channel, only 0.3-0.5m wide, and often has very little water (5-30cm deep). It has consistently failed to reach good ecological status due to poor fish numbers and high levels of phosphates. The failures are considered due to point source pollution from South Cerney Waste Water Treatment works and physical modification of the channel. Land use and designations A river habitat survey in May 2015 (1) found the brook runs mainly through open countryside owned by a wide variety of landowners from farmers to leisure businesses and with one section bordering an industrial unit. Surrounding land is used for agricultural small holdings, semi-improved grassland and arable farmland. Ex-mineral extraction land now is used for nature reserves, sailing and fishing lakes. In places where livestock access the brook there is some damage to the bank and sedimentation of the watercourse. The Thames & Severn Way canal runs through the land and over the river. Overshading is a significant issue where the brook flows behind hedgerows and dense scrub and reduced sunlight is inhibiting marginal and aquatic plant growth. There is limited public access and it has a reputation for smelling due to the high input from South Cerney Waste Waste Treatment Works. Flora from preliminary assessment May 2015 (1): The banks were dominated by stinging nettles and shaded by hawthorn scrub, elder and willow trees. In less shaded areas there was marginal vegetation including Branched Bur-reed, Lesser water-parsnip, Water mint. There was little aquatic vegetation present but there was filamentous algae growing on the bed. Fauna from preliminary assessment May 2015 (1): Invertebrates included Common Blue damselflies and Beautiful damoiselle. Large Signal crayfish were present. The brook is known to have some small fish species such as Minnow and Bullhead. There was no indication of Water Vole, but signs of Otter were noted on and around the brook. Hedgerows and woodland bird species were noted including Song Thrush, a Red Listed species. Main conclusions from the WILD parish reports (1) Overall Cerney Wick Brook through South Cerney parish is of significant ecological value, mainly as a migration corridor with its associated scrub habitat rather than the brook itself. It would need significant investment in both water quality and habitat improvements to bring it up to good ecological status. Catchment issues There is no real risk of flooding to Ashton Keynes as the village itself over a kilometre away from the brook, however, there is a high risk of flooding throughout South Cerney Parish. Phosphate pollution from point and diffuse sources (Wastewater treatment works and land management) Signal crayfish are established in this water body. WILD Project, River Thames Management Plan, Ashton Keynes Parish (March 2016), South Cerney Parish (June 2015) Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 Cycle 2 failing due to fish and phosphates (poor status) http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039023800 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Charlie Steele Assistant Farm Environment Adviser Expand Charlie joined FWAG SW in 2021 after graduating from the University of Birmingham in BA Geography, with a year spent studying in Wisconsin, USA. He currently provides assistance to other advisers in the team and supports the Hills to Levels project in Somerset, and has a background in practical environmental management from volunteering positions whilst at university and abroad.
Churn (Baunton to Cricklade) - GB106039029750 Catchment area 30.7km2, length 20.4km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 30.7km2, length 20.4km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description This section of the river flows on from Perrots Brook through Baunton alongside the A435 road and through Cirencester town centre. After Cirencester, the river continues through the village of Siddington and farmland to South Cerney. It is frequently split to create mill-leat channels for historic watermill uses. It flows past small privately-owned fishing lakes and through the South Cerney outdoor recreation areas. After flowing through the village of Cerney Wick the river splits into two channels, the more northerly channel being created to supply various old mill buildings. it then re-converges before skirting Cricklade and joining the Thames. North of Siddington the river flows mainly over gravel substrate but there are some silty stretches where signal crayfish are causing bank erosion. It is subject to a wide fluctuation in water levels. Through Siddington it has a more natural meandering form with obvious areas of eroding banks. There is evidence of historic modification including channel enlargement and embanking in the water body, mill and flood meadow infrastructure. It has also been subjected to channel straightening throughout the South Cerney and Cricklade parishes. The modifications have reduced the biodiversity value of the river. The River Churn has previously failed to reach good ecological status due to inadequate numbers and/or diversity of fish. Reasons include insufficient water levels and flows during the summer, over-predation by signal crayfish, physical modifications of the river creating barriers to fish movements, urbanisation destroying habitat and land drainage/agricultural activities. In 2016 it reached a good status for fish and moderate for macrophytes and phytobenthos. Land use and designations Land use in the catchment includes semi-improved pasture for grazing, woodland, historic water management systems, residential, recreational and commercial business and aggregate extraction. The area is crossed by various footpaths, the Sustrans 45 cycleway, and the Thames & Severn Way canal. Stakeholders include Bathurst Estate, Cotswold Flyfishers (CFF), the Welcome Trust, and Cricklade Town Council. The North Meadow National Nature Reserve, managed by Natural England and the Cricklade Court Leet is a part of the North Meadow and Clattinger Farm Special Area of Conservation and is designated for its very important lowland haymeadow plant community (including the nationally important population of Snakeshead Fritillary). There is no bank-side fencing on the Nature Reserve (the Commonland status means it cannot be permanently fenced) and there is damage of the river banks and bed by cattle accessing the watercourse from the opposite side. There are also areas of over-shading which prevents the sunlight from reaching the water and water’s edge inhibiting marginal and aquatic plant growth. Flora from preliminary assessment On sections that are fenced, there are dense stands of Reed Sweet-grass, Canary grass and rushes. Typical wetlands plants found such as Fool’s water Cress and Lesser water-parsnip, Floating sweet grass and Amphibious bistort, Fools Water Cress, Water mint and Lesser water-parsnip. There are several large old Willow/Ash trees which have significant landscape and biodiversity value and native Black Poplar, a rare British tree included in the Cotswold Water Park Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2007-16 and currently the focus of a Gloucestershire FWAG tree planting project. Wildmoor way Meadows SSSI has unimproved grassland dominated by Crested Dogs tail, Common Knapweed and a healthy display of Southern Marsh Orchid. Himalayan balsam is a major problem through South Cerney and Cricklade with a stronghold due to interconnected drains and ditches between the river and the disused Thames & Severn canal. Fauna Signal crayfish are undermining the bank in places. Aquatic invertebrate life includes Beautiful damoiselle and Keeled Skimmer. Fish species are known to include Chub, Dace, Roach, Brown Trout (some natural and some stocked), Brook lamprey, Minnow, Bullhead and occasional Perch and Pike. Signs of Otter were recorded along this stretch of the river. A survey by Cotswold Water Park Trust in Autumn 2014 found Water Vole were present in low numbers. Kingfisher and Grey Wagtail were also recorded (Amber Listed species) and Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher and Yellowhammer (Red Listed species). Main conclusions from the WILD parish reports 1 Overall the Churn through Siddington parish is of high ecological value, particularly where the river has been fenced from livestock with a wide buffer. The river appears to have reasonable quality water due to the presence of indicator species such as Dipper. All sections have a high ecological potential that could be achieved by enhancements to riparian management some of which are already being implemented by the river tenants and the landowners. Through South Cerney and Cricklade parishes it is of significant ecological value, despite the modifications and the impact of some land uses and associated infrastructure, trees, and scrub. Through Cricklade, its main value to fish is during the winter when it has significant flow and it can act as a bypass channel. During the summer it generally is too dry, silty and lacking in aquatic vegetation to have much value for all but the smaller fish species, but it does have value for Water Vole. Catchment Issues Land to the south of Siddington is subject to flooding during high rainfall periods. There is also a relatively high risk of flooding throughout South Cerney and Cricklade parishes with most of the land being in the natural floodplain, however, the village/town are at low risk. North Meadow has always flooded throughout history and Natural England has improved the connectivity of the floodplain to the river. This catchment has a strong presence of invasive species; Signal crayfish and Himalayan balsam. WILD Project, River Churn Management Plan, South Cerney Parish (June 2015), Siddington Parish (April 2015), Ashton Keynes Parish (March 2016) Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 achieved a Moderate overall status with the Fish element ‘Good’ after being consistently bad or poor previously. Macrophytes and phytobenthos were assessed as Moderate. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039029750 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Churn (source to Perrots Brook) - GB106039029810 Catchment area 58.6km2, length 16.9km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 58.6km2, length 16.9km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The waterbody rises at Seven Springs (South of Cheltenham) and flows in a largely southerly direction alongside the A435 passing the villages of Cowley, Colesbourne, Rendcomb and North Cerney. Land use and designations Steeply sloped valley sides, woodland and farmland in the upper catchment. Crossed by Gloucestershire Way and Macmillan Way and followed by Monarch’s Way footpaths. Flora and Fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 Moderate overall status owing to ecological elements Fish and Macrophytes and Phytobenthos. Under cycle 1 from 2009 to 2014 it had a Poor overall WFD status due to Phytobenthos and Fish and in 2014 under cycle 2 it achieved a Good overall status, falling to Moderate in 2015 with a reduced flow (due to suspected groundwater abstraction). http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039029810 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Clare Buckerfield Senior Farm Environment Adviser Expand Clare has been a FWAG Adviser in Dorset for 20 years. She has a lot of experience preparing agri-environment scheme applications and helping farmers implement agreements. With a keen interest in chalk downland, she can advise on the management, restoration and creation of chalk grassland and other grassland habitats. Clare currently facilitates the Cranborne Chase Farmer Cluster, co-ordinates the Long Bredy Farmer Group, and provides land management advice to farmers for the Devils Brook Multi-Benefits Project, Piddle Valley NFM project, and the South Dorset Grasslands Facilitation Fund Cluster.
Coate Water - GB30642155 Catchment area 794km2, lake surface area 0.3km2, mean depth 2.8m, heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 794km2, lake surface area 0.3km2, mean depth 2.8m, heavily modified. Waterbody description Coate Water is a small lake making up a part of the Coate Water Country Park. It is located near junction 15 of the M5 5km southeast of central Swindon. Within the park there is a woodland, nature reserves and bird hides. Land Use and designations Recreational use for walking and nature watching. Flora and Fauna The lake is a valuable nesting site for waterfowl and reed bunting, with warblers present during the summer and spring. It is also an important habitat for dragonflies and damselflies, plus a wide range of fish such as carp, bream and pike. Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive Water Framework Directive 2016 overall status Moderate, due to biological (phytoplankton) and physio-chemical elements (Total Phosphorus) and physical modifications. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB30642155 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Cole (Acorn Bridge to Bower Bridge) - GB106039022930 Catchment area 1,446 ha, length 6.1km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Banner image @Harry McGregor Catchment area 1,446 ha, length 6.1km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description This waterbordy follows on from Acorn Bridge (West of Bourton) flowing northerly direction under the A420 and a railway line. Land Use and designations Passes through woodland and farmland. Catchment also contains the village of Sevenhampton. Flora and Fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive The Water Framework Directive 2015 and 2016 overall status was Poor owing to ecological elements (macrophytes and phytobenthos and phosphates) due to point source (sewage) and diffuse source (from urban, transport and agriculture/land management) pollution. It also had a Moderate assessment for copper in 2013 and 2014. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039022930 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Cole (Bower Bridge to Thames) including Coleshill - GB106039023730 Catchment area 22.6km2, length 13.9km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 22.6km2, length 13.9km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The waterbody flows in a northerly direction from Bower Bridge, past the village of Coleshill towards Lechlade, where it joins the Thames. Modifications include a weir and land drainage, ditch infrastructure and channel straightening. Land Use and designations Initially the waterbody passes alongside woodland at Watchfield Common Wood (Nature Reserve) and farmland. The catchment also contains Coleshill Park, the eastern side of the town of Highworth and a solar farm at Upper Inglesham. Flora and Fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive From 2013 to 2016, under cycle 2, the overall status became Moderate (previously Poor) according to ecological elements. Phosphates have been Poor from sewage discharge since 2014 and Moderate for macrophytes and phytobenthos due to sewage discharge and diffuse pollution from agricultural and land management. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039023730 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Cole (source to Lenta Brook) - GB106039022890 Catchment area 2,497 ha, length 6.9km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 2,497 ha, length 6.9km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The waterbody rises in the residential area of Walcot East (East Swindon) and flows in an easterly direction parallel to Drake’s Way under the A419 and out of the town into farmland. This waterbody contains the self-contained waterbody of Coate Water. Land Use and designations Urban area and farmland. Flora and Fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 overall status Poor owing to ecological elements Macrophytes and Phytobenthos (poor), invertebrates (moderate) and phosphates (poor). The status was Good from 2009 to 2011 (cycle 1), however then falling to Moderate in 2012 and to Poor in 2015. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039022890 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Coln (from Coln Rogers) and Thames (Coln to Leach) - GB106039029992 Catchment area 52.3km2, length 28km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 52.3km2, length 28km, Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The River Coln is spring fed, rising north of Brockhampton, flows in a south-easterly direction (passing through villages of Withington, Fossebridge, Coln Rogers, Winson, Abington, Bibury, and Quenington) to join the Thames between Fairford and Lechlade. The underlying geology is limestone and the river has a gravel base. Stretches of the river have been modified, there are on-line lakes and ponds, mill buildings and a trout farm. Point source pollution arises from wastewater treatment works at Andoversford, Withington, Bibury, and Fairford. A River habitat survey was undertaken from Fairford parish to Lechlade April 2014 (1). Between Quenington and Fairford stretches have good meandering but it is modified through Fairford, damned by a mill, creating an online lake and split and straightened for a stretch reaching a weir before reconnecting. Further downstream the channel has been modified and is wider, shallower and straighter than natural. Banks have been damaged by public access and vehicle crossings. More natural meandering stretches have been managed to improve the ecology but there is overshading in areas. As the river approaches Lechlade it has good morphology with frequent meanders and the surrounding farming is well buffered. The main detrimental impacts here are from dense shading from non-native tree plantations and dense Himalayan Balsam growth. Land use and designations Through Fairford and Kempsford parishes and around Lechlade the land use next to the river is largely grazing for cattle and sheep with some arable, woodland planting, holiday homes, recreation facilities, sailing and walking. Numerous fishing clubs and access result in it being a heavily fished river. There is a high level of public access around Lechlade including gardens, pubs, the Riverside Country Park and footpaths. Flora identified from a walk over assessment of in Spring 2014 (1) Margin species - Reed Sweet-grass, Fools Water Cress, Common Reed, Lesser pond-sedge, Water mint, Meadow Sweet, Butterbur, Water Forget-me-not, Marsh Marigold and Flag Iris. Bank vegetation - nettles, Great willowherb, and Common comfrey. Aquatic vegetation - some Water-starwort. Thick stands of Himalayan balsam is a major problem on the Coln through Kempford and Lechlade parishes, excluding native vegetation and exposing soil to erosion. Fauna identified from a walk over assessment of in Spring 2014 (1) Signal crayfish are present in high numbers on the River Coln, undermining banks. Known to have a range of fish species including stocked Brown trout Typical species of hedgerows and woodland birds (including song thrush) and riparian birds. Reed bunting, reed warbler sighted, and Kingfishers are known in the area. Signs of otter and water vole in Fairford to Lechlade section of the Coln, work has been undertaken by Cotswold Water Park and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on conservation and habitat improvement. Main conclusions from Parish WILD reports (1) The River Coln through Fairford to the Thames is of significant ecological value despite the modification and the detrimental impact some river uses and management of trees. The ecology of the river habitat could be improved but requires significant landowner co-operation. Identified issues Flood risk; Fairford is in flood zone 3 due to its location (1 in 100 or greater chance each year). There is no risk to Kempsford or the village of Whelford. There is relatively low-level risk of flooding to the town of Lechlade however, parish land is in Flood Zones 2 and 3. The invasive signal crayfish and mimalayan balsam are both established in this waterbody. WILD Project, Rivers Management Plans for Fairford Parish, Kempsford Parish and Lechlade Parish (May 2016) Water Framework Directive For 2016 the WFD overall status ‘Poor’ for ecological elements – Fish (poor), macrophytes and phytobenthos (moderate) owing to physical modifications and land drainage (probably due to changes in monitoring points and updated data). In 2013 the WFD status for the Coln to Leach waterbody was ‘Good’. It is worth noting pre-2013 Coln (source to Thames) was one water body 29990. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039029992 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Coln (source to Coln Rogers) - GB106039029991 Catchment area 89.9km2, length 27.1km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand (nb previously part of a single waterbody: Coln (source to Thames) 29990) Catchment area 89.9km2, length 27.1km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The River Coln is spring fed, rising north of Brockhampton, flows in a south-easterly direction to join the Thames at Fairford (passing through villages of Withington, Fossebridge, Coln Rogers, Winson, Abington, Bibury and Quenington). The underlying geology is limestone and the river has a gravel base. Stretches of the river have been modified, there are on-line lakes and ponds, mill buildings and a trout farm. Point source pollution from wastewater treatment works at Andoversford, Withington, Bibury and Fairford. Land use and designations The waterbody has some steep slopes with extensive woodland particularly to the west of Brockhampton (new plantations) and in the valleys around Chedworth (ancient woodland). The farmland is mixed; principally permanent grassland but with significant areas of cultivated land. It is crossed by dismantled railway, major roads (including the A429 and A40) and Gloucestershire Way, Monarchs Way and Macmillan Way public footpaths. Flora and fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive In 2013 the WFD status was Good, by 2015 this had dropped to Moderate for the biological quality element macrophytes, due to physical modifications, and dissolved oxygen. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039029992 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Cotswold Water Park Lake 12 - GB30641559 Catchment area 0.16km2, lake surface area 12.165 ha, mean depth 2.47m, artificial lake. Expand Catchment area 0.16km2, lake surface area 12.165 ha, mean depth 2.47m, artificial lake. Waterbody description Part of the South Cerney lake development alongside the River Churn. Land use and designations Recreational lake owned by the South Cerney Outdoor Centre (https://www.southcerneyoutdoor.co.uk/) and used for water sports such as sailing and kayaking. Flora and Fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 overall status was Moderate (owing to the biological element macrophytes and phytobenthos due to physical modification, land drainage and probable invasive non-native species). http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB30641559 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Cow by Ted Hughes Expand The Cow comes home swinging Her udder and singing: ‘The dirt O the dirt It does me no hurt. ‘And a good splash of muck Is a blessing of luck. ‘O I splosh through the mud But the breath of my cud ‘Is sweeter than silk. O I splush through manure ‘But my heart stays pure As a pitcher of milk.’ from the collection ‘The Cat and the Cuckoo’
Cow II by Ted Hughes Expand The Cow is but a bagpipe All bag, all bones, all blort. They bawl me out of bed at dawn And never give a thought a thought They never give a thought. The milk-herd is a factory: Milk, meat, butter, cheese. You think these come in rivers? O The slurry comes in seas seas The slurry comes in seas. A cowclap is an honest job, A black meringue for the flies. But when the sea of slurry spills Your shining river dies dies Your shining river dies. Say this about cows: Nothing can stop From one end the Moo From t’other the flop flop flop flippety-flop Floppety-flippety. from the collection ‘What is the truth?’
Crow by Ted Hughes Expand Thrice, thrice, thrice, the coal-bright Crow Baaarks – aaarks – aaarks, like a match being struck To look for trouble. ‘Hear ye the Preacher: Nature to Nature Returns each creature.’ The Crow lifts a claw – A crucifix Of burnt matchsticks. ‘I am the Priest. For my daily bread I nurse the dead.’ The monkish Crow Ruffles his cloak Like a burnt bible. ‘At my humble feast I am happy to drink Whatever you think.’ Then the Crow Laughs through his hacker And grows blacker. from the collection ‘The Cat and the Cuckoo’
Daglingworth Stream (source to Churn) - GB106039029770 Catchment area 22.4km2, length 11.1km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 22.4km2, length 11.1km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The Daglingworth stream begins north of Duntisbourne Abbots and winds itself between the agricultural hills of Duntisbourne Leer, Middle Duntisbourne and through Daglingworth. It flows into the north of Cirencester joining the Churn within the Bathurst Estate. The geology is mainly limestone formed approximately 166-168 million years, with occasional mudstone bedrock. There are opportunities to explore the geology to divert the flow away from sinkholes or use them in flood events. Currently flood meadows are used to slow the flow during these times. Land use and designations Flora and Fauna The stream itself is famed for its fish diversity and there is a known population of water voles in the lower reaches. Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive *research is on-going to identify if sinkholes are the cause of water loss. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039029770 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Derry Brook - GB106039023620 Catchment area 15.8km2, length 8.6km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 15.8km2, length 8.6km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The Derry Brook rises south-west of Minety on rural land supplied largely by field drains. It initially flows in an easterly direction then heads north before passing the boundary of the Ashton Keynes and Leigh Parishes before joining Swill Brook. It has been consistently failing for both ecology and water quality (except 2013 Cycle 2), with the ecological status determined by macrophyte (moderate) and invertebrate data (poor). The brook has high levels of Phosphates and very low oxygen levels. The reasons for these failures are thought to be diffuse pollution and physical modification. The river habitat was surveyed in February 2015(1)) and found to run as a field boundary with significant scrub and is very shaded. Water quality looked poor with the water being very muddy and turbid. Where it was visible the base was a mix of fine gravels sand and silt. Surrounding farmland is largely semi-improved pasture for cattle and horses and some arable crops. A significant section is owned on alternate banks by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and Distillery Meadows Nature Reserve. The villages of Ashton Keynes and Minety are under no real risk of flooding. Flora Some section with Pendulous sedge growing. Fauna Few fish noted – No evidence of otter or water vole. The brook is likely to be too small to provide otter holt habitat although they might potentially use the brook to forage for food. Mallard ducks and species more typical of pasture, hedgerows and woodland were more commonly noted including Robin, Long-tailed tit, Blue tit, Great tit and Wood Pigeon. Main conclusions from the WILD parish reports Overall the brook is too small and shaded to have significant value as an aquatic habitat, but the surrounding scrub has value particularly for birds. In the summer it is likely that brook has very little water flow however it may provide habitat for smaller fish species. Any potential enhancement to the brook’s morphology is unlikely to be cost effective. Turbidity is worthy of further investigation if the water quality of the brook is to be improved Water with Integrated Local Delivery (WILD) Project, River Thames Management Plan, Ashton Keynes Parish, March 2016. Also, Leigh Parish (March 2016) Mintey Parish (February 2016) Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 (Cycle 2) Bad overall status (Bad for Invertebrates, Bad for Dissolved Oxygen and Ammonia, Poor Phosphates, Moderate for Macrophytes and Phytobenthos. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039023620 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Dougal Hosford FWAG SouthWest Chairman and Dorset Farmer Expand Dougal Hosford is a second generation tenant farmer on the Bryanston Estate near Blandford in Dorset. The family have been farming there for nearly 60 years and Dougal has a particular interest in conservation, managing a large stewardship scheme on the farm in harmony with the 1650 acres of combinable crops, 200 breeding ewe flock and 60 head suckler herd. Several of the traditional farm buildings have been converted to light industrial and office lets. Dougal won the FWAG SW Barn Owl trophy in 2013 and was runner up in the Silver Lapwing in 2014.
Dragonfly by Ted Hughes Expand Now let’s have another try To love the giant Dragonfly. Stand beside the peaceful water. Next thing – a whispy, dry clatter And he whizzes to a dead stop In mid-air, and his eyes pop. Snakey stripes, a snakey fright! Does he sting? Does he bite? Suddenly he’s gone. Suddenly back. A Scarey jumping cracker – Here! Right here! An inch from your ear! Sizzling in the air And giving you a stare Out of the huge cockpit of his eyes - ! Now say: ‘What a lovely surprise!’ from the collection ‘The Cat and the Cuckoo’
Dudgrove Brook - GB106039023110 Catchment area 1,294 ha, length 7.8km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Expand Catchment area 1,294 ha, length 7.8km. Not designated artificial or heavily modified. Waterbody description The Brook rises east of Meysey Hampton flowing south between Whelford and Kempsford. It joins the River Coln near Bowmoor Lake. The geology is mainly made up of Oxford clay which is a mudstone formed during the Jurassic Period 157 million years ago. Land use and designations Flora and Fauna Conclusions and issues Water Framework Directive WFD 2016 overall status was Moderate (owing to the biological element macrophytes and phytobenthos) and phosphate, however, there is no further data provided by the Environment Agency. http://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning/WaterBody/GB106039023110 Click here to go back to the main waterbodies information page
Edward Bonn GREAT Project Manager / Farm Environment Adviser Expand Edward joined FWAG SW in April 2022 and will be managing the GREAT Project as maternity cover, as well as farm advisory provision. He previously ran the Cotswolds National Landscape’s rural skills programme, offering a range of conservation-focussed and traditional land management courses, along with coppicing rotations and charcoal burning in various woodlands. He has an MSc in Countryside Management from Scotland’s Rural College and a real passion for engaging people with the wider countryside.