HUNDREDS have backed calls from a Ludlow angler to impose stronger protections for a local river, saying pollution, invasive species and declining wildlife have left the river "unwell".
Samuel Jones, an osteopath, keen angler, swimmer, and kayaker from Ludlow, has launched a petition urging residents to advocate for the River Teme.
Mr Jones says he has witnessed a decline in aquatic species, including fish and invertebrates, as well as the spread of invasive plants and animals over recent decades.
The campaign coincides with the 30th anniversary of the River Teme being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a status awarded for its high water quality and rich biodiversity.
However, Mr Jones questioned whether the river is receiving sufficient protection, citing concerns about pollution, water extraction and recent findings of elevated bacteria levels.
Drawing inspiration from the River Wye's newly adopted rights charter, which recognises rights including freedom from pollution and the protection of biodiversity, Mr Jones believes the Teme should receive similar recognition.
Through his petition, he hopes to encourage greater action from local and national authorities to restore the river's health from its source in the Kerry Hills to its confluence with the River Severn near Worcester.
"The simple truth is that our rivers have been in gradual decline for decades: insect hatches aren’t the same, there are invasive species, and all fish stocks are under duress from pollution, migration barriers, and climate change," he said.
He added that he believes no specific agency is to blame for the decline of the Teme, "but the most important aspect for recovery is that if we all look after habitat, meaning everybody in the entire river catchment, then recovery has a chance."
Members of the public can sign Mr Jones' petition by following this link: https://www.change.org/p/grant-the-river-teme-and-its-tributaries-rights-of-nature
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "We understand how much the local community values the River Teme and its tributaries.
“We take our role in cleaning up our rivers seriously and encourage anyone to report any environmental or pollution concerns to us as soon as possible so we can take appropriate action.
“Please report them to our National Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60, or online at Report an environmental problem - GOV.UK."
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