We are now in April and, true to the season, we have already seen a number of showers, with more forecast in the coming days.

The river is currently running low but remains clear. Recent water testing at the Stakeford Cross site shows encouraging improvements, with phosphate levels recorded at 0.07, down from 0.26 just a month ago. Ammonia levels remain at zero and E. coli tests are negative. There have been no recorded CSO discharges into this tributary since 19th February 2026.

However, at the Beer Hackett Combined Sewer Overflow, a discharge event was recorded on 9th March 2026 at 01:42am, lasting 34 minutes. This equates to an estimated 20,000 to 180,000 litres of untreated sewage entering the tributary that flows into the River Wriggle.

Over the coming week, further water samples will be taken at both Beer Hackett and Downs Lane tributaries. These results will help build a clearer and more consistent picture of the river’s condition.

Walking around the local area, there are many welcome signs that summer is approaching—wildlife is returning, with birds, butterflies, hares and deer all visible. Unfortunately, there is still little evidence of life within the river itself.
In the week ahead, I will be meeting with local residents to discuss the formation of the Community Group. Leaflet drops will take place around Brister End, and further correspondence will be submitted to Wessex Water and the Environment Agency.

If you would like to get involved or support this work, please get in touch:
📧 wrigglevalleycommunity@yahoo.com
📞 07815 135602