{"id":15756,"date":"2022-05-05T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-05-04T22:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/?post_type=purple_issue&p=15756"},"modified":"2022-05-12T11:22:26","modified_gmt":"2022-05-12T09:22:26","slug":"rivers-pictures-and-events","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/2022\/05\/05\/rivers-pictures-and-events\/","title":{"rendered":"Rivers: Pictures and Events"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Stories from the river<\/h4>\n\n
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RIVER NEVIS <\/span><\/strong>
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

The boulder-strewn River Nevis winds under Britain\u2019s highest peak, Ben Nevis, in Lochabar.The river arises in the Mamores mountains east of Ben Nevis and flows through Glen Nevis to Fort William and its mouth at Loch Linnhe, a sea loch, to meet the estuary of the River Lochy.<\/span>Following heavy rainfall, the river thunders at full pelt; in summer, it meanders idly along its course.<\/p>\n\n

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Photos: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

RIVER CONWY <\/span><\/strong>
NORTH WALES<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

Near the village of Betws-y-Coed at the gateway to Snowdonia, the River Conwy dashes though a verdant, ferny gorge known as Ffos Noddyn (deep ditch), or Fairy Glen in English. This image captures the ethereal atmosphere of this rushing water \u2013 you can almost hear the roar. Unsurprisingly, it is a favourite stretch of river for canoeists who fancy a challenge.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n

RIVER WENSUM <\/span><\/strong>
NORFOLK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

A paddleboarder skims along this East Anglian chalk stream, a wonderful way to see the fish and other creatures that thrive in these crystal-clear waterways. The Wensum\u2019s pure waters eventually flow into Norfolk Broads National Park.<\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n

RIVER SOAR <\/span><\/strong>
EUROPEAN EEL<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

Constant travellers, European eels migrate in search of nutrient-rich estuaries, canals and lowland rivers, such as Leicestershire\u2019s River Soar. Eels hatch in the Sargasso Sea, north of the Caribbean, making their way to our estuaries as larvae. After several years, adult eels journey back to Sargasso to spawn.<\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n

RIVER THET <\/span><\/strong>
OTTERS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

These charismatic mammals are secretive yet are found on most British rivers where fish numbers remain high. Your best chance to see them is at dawn or dusk. Approach the riverbank quietly and remain still, keeping your eyes peeled for any movement on the surface. Listen out for their thin, whistling calls, too.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

Nature News<\/span> <\/h5>\n\n

Stories from the river<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n

New woodlands for our waterways<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n

A new project \u2013 \u2018Woodlands for Water\u2019 \u2013 is offering farmers and landowners financial incentives to plant and manage trees along rivers and watercourses.<\/p>\n\n

The Riverscapes partnership, which comprises The Rivers Trust, National Trust, Woodland Trust and Beaver Trust, hopes to create 3,150 hectares of trees in six river catchment areas, from Cornwall to Cumbria, by March 2025. theriverstrust.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

Clawing back<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n

The white-clawed crayfish \u2013 one of the UK\u2019s most endangered native species \u2013 has been given a fresh chance of survival thanks to a newly created refuge on Wallington Estate in Northumberland. Up to 100 of these omnivorous crustaceans will be moved to an old cattle drinking hole, where, it\u2019s hoped, they will breed. <\/span>nationaltrust.org.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\n

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Beaver boost<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n

A second family of beavers has been moved to the Argaty Red Kites centre in Perthshire, reinforcing the family of five already relocated there last autumn. \u201cBeavers can play an important role in helping to restore biodiversity and respond to the climate emergency in Scotland,\u201d says NatureScot\u2019s head of wildlife management Donald Fraser. Their dams help improve water quality, and create rich wetlands that benefit other species, such as invertebrates and fish. <\/span>beavertrust.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n

ID guide<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/h5>\n\n

Flora of the riverbank<\/h4>\n\n

The long, balmy days of late spring trigger the vigorous growth of riverside grasses, plants and trees. Here are 12 species to look out for on your next walk<\/strong><\/span> <\/strong>By Kevin Parr<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

\n
\n

1. COMMON REED <\/strong>
Phragmites australis<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Growing more than two metres tall over vast areas, this forms vital habitat for invertebrates, warblers and rare birds such as bitterns. It tolerates brackish water but struggles in high acidity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

2. HEMP AGRIMONY <\/strong>
Eupatorium cannabinum<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also known as holy rope, its mauve flowers are clustered in racemes and appear in late summer, attracting butterflies in particular. It is used traditionally in European medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

3. WATER MINT <\/strong>
Mentha aquatica<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common, widespread and often smelt before seen, this is popularly cultivated and used for infusions and essential oils. The oval leaves and tiny purple flowers are distinct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

4. YELLOW FLAG <\/strong>
Irispseudacorus<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Its striking yellow flowers make the yellow flag popular as an ornamental plant. Often cited as an indicator species, iris beds form vital habitats for the elusive corncrake in western Scotland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

5. ALDER <\/strong>
Alnusglutinosa<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This pioneer species thrives in poor-quality soil, which it improves for other plants. Alder hardens like rock when submerged and was used in the construction of crannogs (island dwellings built by ancient humans).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

6. COMMON BULRUSH <\/strong>
Typha latifolia<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also known as reedmace, the bulrush is fast-growing and vigorous, with distinctive brown cigar seed heads tipped by buff flowers. The rhizomes are foraged for food but are susceptible to water pollution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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6<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

7. COMMON CLUB RUSH <\/strong>
Schoenoplectruslacustris<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Commonly found beside slow rivers and marshland, with thin, tapering stems and submerged leaves. The flowers are small spikes of brown and emerge from the top of the stalk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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7<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

8. HEMLOCK WATER DROPWORT <\/strong>
Oenanthecrocata<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

All parts of this common and deadly plant are poisonous if ingested. Its nefarious use in Sardinia, and the facial expression of poisoned victims, is believed to have led to the term \u2018sardonic grin\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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8<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

9. MEADOWSWEET <\/strong>
Filipendula ulmaria<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A favourite flower of Elizabeth I, the creamy dollops of meadowsweet are a sign and smell of late summer. This widespread plant has a delicate flavour that has long been used in homeopathy, medicine and cooking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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9<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

10. MARSH BEDSTRAW <\/strong>
Galiumpalustre<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Widespread in wetland habitats, this delicate, slightly spindly perennial has small, bright white flowers. It is one of many species of bedstraw, so called because it was once used to stuff mattresses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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10 <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

11. WHITE WILLOW <\/strong>
Salix alba<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of several common willow species, the white willow is familiar due to its long, slim leaves that glisten in silvery white. The hybrid Salix <\/em>alba <\/em>\u2018Tristis\u2019 <\/em>is known for its long, \u2018weeping\u2019 branches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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11<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

12. PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE <\/strong>
Lythrumsalicaria<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tall and striking with red-purple stalks and similar hued flowers, this often grows in dense clumps and attracts pollinating insects. Used traditionally as a treatment for gastric ailments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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12<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Kit for sunny days on the water<\/span><\/h5>\n\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

SEVYLOR THREE-PERSON TAHITI PLUS INFLATABLE KAYAK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

Easily inflated in minutes and folding into its own backpack, this kayak is the epitome of freedom. Ideal for sheltered inland waters, it is surprisingly manoeuverable if fitted with a skeg (keel). \u00a3190, gooutdoors.co.uk<\/a> <\/em><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

PAPER HAT WITH BLUE TRIM<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

Keep cool by the water with this classic summer hat, made with lightweight and durable natural paper. \u00a315, <\/span>nationaltrust.co.uk<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

RAPID EYEWEAR CATCH PRO FLY FISHING SUNGLASSES<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

By removing the sun\u2019s glare, these glasses allow you to see into the hidden world underwater \u2013 and it\u2019s a revelation. Mostly used by anglers, these are ideal for fish-spotting and general riverbank daydreaming. \u00a337.99, <\/span>rapideyewear.co.uk<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n

<\/p>\n\n

\n\n

Did you know?<\/span><\/h4>\n\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

220 miles is the length of Britain\u2019s longest river. Rising in the Cambrian Mountains, the River Severn courses through Wales and England for 220 miles \u2013 which is more than half a million steps.<\/em><\/p>\n\n

Top five…<\/span><\/h5>\n\n

River festivals and events<\/h4>\n\n

Grab your sun hat and head for the water this summer for boat races, music, local food and more.<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

LEICESTER RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL 4\u20135 June <\/strong><\/strong>Leicester\u2019s free waterside festival held on the banks of the glittering River Soar includes a narrow-boat rally, boat trips and the chance to view and buy work from local artists at Art on the River. visitleicester.info<\/a><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA 28 June\u20133 July <\/strong><\/strong>Six days, 300 races and over 300,000 spectators \u2013 it\u2019s no surprise this event has been dubbed the most prestigious regatta in the world. Expect Champagne, canap\u00e9s and summer vibes. Tickets on sale 3 May. hrr.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\n

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BEDFORD RIVER FESTIVAL 23\u201324 July <\/strong><\/strong>There\u2019s something for everyone at this summer festival beside the River Great Ouse, including raft and dragon-boat races, a watersports arena and a fun fair; free entry. riverfestival.bedford.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\n

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MONMOUTH RAFT RACE 4 September <\/strong><\/strong>Fancy building your own raft and racing down the River Wye for charity? The 6.5-mile paddle starts at Monmouth Rowing Club and finishes at Whitebrook, where there\u2019s a family festival; \u00a350 per raft. monmouthraftrace.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n

RIVER NESS 5K\/10K 2 October <\/strong><\/strong>Open to runners of all ages and abilities, including wheelchair and pushchair users, this 5K follows a flat, scenic route along the beautiful River Ness from Bught Park into the heart of Inverness; \u00a312 to enter. lochnessmarathon.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n

Photo: Alamy, Getty, Jack Perks, Naturepl.com, BWalsh, Reuben Tabner<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

This months river special <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":15751,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ub_ctt_via":"","purple_page_number":"6","purple_custom_meta_purple_page_number":"6","purple_seq_number":"1","purple_custom_meta_purple_seq_number":"1","purple_source_article":"article_6-1.xml","purple_custom_meta_purple_source_article":"article_6-1.xml","purple_source_issue":"Special-2022","purple_custom_meta_purple_source_issue":"Special-2022","purple_external_id":"Special-2022-6-1","purple_custom_meta_purple_external_id":"Special-2022-6-1","purple_issue_code":"|0000084056||","purple_custom_meta_purple_issue_code":"|0000084056||","purple_android_product":"com.im.countryfile.190","purple_custom_meta_purple_android_product":"com.im.countryfile.190","purple_ios_product":"com.im.countryfile.190","purple_custom_meta_purple_ios_product":"com.im.countryfile.190","purple_web_product":"","purple_custom_meta_purple_web_product":"","purple_publication_id":"91da22fd-9e7f-40d1-a93f-fc46e9516d91","purple_migrated":"","kt_blocks_editor_width":"","apple_news_api_created_at":"2022-05-12T08:27:38Z","apple_news_article-theme":"","apple_news_api_id":"9e646045-b827-418b-8bc4-d2e3ebbc9188","apple_news_api_modified_at":"2022-05-12T09:22:39Z","apple_news_api_revision":"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ==","apple_news_api_share_url":"https:\/\/apple.news\/AnmRgRbgnQYuLxNLj67yRiA","apple_news_coverimage":0,"apple_news_coverimage_caption":"","apple_news_is_hidden":false,"apple_news_is_paid":true,"apple_news_is_preview":true,"apple_news_is_sponsored":false,"apple_news_maturity_rating":"","apple_news_pullquote":"","apple_news_pullquote_position":"","apple_news_article_theme":"","apple_news_sections":"[]"},"categories":[19],"tags":[14],"apple_news_notices":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"9","apple_news_title":""},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462.jpg",2048,1660,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462-300x243.jpg",300,243,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462-768x623.jpg",768,623,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462-1024x830.jpg",800,648,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462-1536x1245.jpg",1536,1245,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/45\/2022\/04\/13a97629-e16e-4702-8af3-ef3eb641e462.jpg",2048,1660,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"This months river special","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15756"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15756"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15756\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17653,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15756\/revisions\/17653"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15751"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15756"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15756"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbccountryfile\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15756"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}