River Fest 2025 will take place on May 4 to celebrate the River Lavant.
The event will include a duck race, which this year marks its 30th anniversary, starting at 2pm from the Pot Nore bridge.
Organised by the Western Sussex Rivers Trust and Lavant Parish Council, the event is free to attend and will be a day of river-focused fun for all the family.
The River Lavant is one of less than 300 chalk streams in the world.
At the event, experts will be on hand to show what lives in the river bed and help identify species along the river, from water-dwelling insects to the flora and fauna along the banks.
There will also be a range of taxidermy river mammals on display, including a beaver.
Kate Whitton, Chalk Stream Resilience Officer for the Western Sussex Rivers Trust, said: “We are very excited for this activity-packed day on the Lavant where the Western Sussex Rivers Trust will be on hand to answer all your watery questions and help you get up close to some river creatures.
“The beautiful River Lavant has seen its fair share of issues over recent years.
“We are working hard with communities and landowners to restore it back to being a healthy river, but we need your help.
“Come and see us during River Fest to find out how you can become a River Guardian and help this precious river thrive again.
“There are lots of easy ways to help and you can quickly become a citizen scientist by getting involved with The Big River Watch and WaterWise Week, as well as having a go at some water quality testing.”
The event will be held on Lavant Village Green, with refreshments provided by Lavant Primary School.
Jenny Quest from Lavant Parish Council added: “The Duck Race has always generated a sense of fun and belonging.
“Children of yesteryear now share their enjoyment with their own children.
“Locals are relieved to have the support of the Western Sussex Rivers Trust after the great concern of last year’s overpumping disasters.
“The river has been here for millennia and we look forward to its restoration so it can continue to bring life and joy to the village.”
Source link
[Featured]
[Just In]
