IT is amazing what finds its way into rivers in Ludlow.

As the weirs manager for the Teme Weirs Trust, one of Gareth Thomas’s jobs is to remove all the debris that ends up on our three weirs – Mill St, Horseshoe and Casemill.

“The variety of items never ceases to amaze, some distinctly more unmentionable than others,” he said.

Trees account for a large proportion, which have to be cut up, but road signs, Traffic cones, wheely bins and even a large television are all in a day’s work. Sheep, cows and deer also turn up regularly, along, sadly, with some pets.

“The occasional car tyre and wheel are not uncommon, but recently I had the present of a huge combine harvester tyre in Mill Street leat.

“It was a 23.1-26 Continental brand and so huge I could hardly move it.

“Luckily I had the offer of invaluable help from Richard Brindley who donned waders and helped me remove the tyre from the river bed. In 2015, I had another in December, slightly smaller, which I had managed myself, but this one was a real beast.

“I am deeply indebted to Richard for helping me out with this and both I and the Weirs Trust Charity owe a big debt of gratitude to TNT Tyres, of Weeping Cross Lane for once again collecting the tyre from the roadside and disposing of it. This is a costly business these days and we are all extremely grateful.”