River Stour's beauty has long inspired artists like John Constable, but for one group of pupils from Dedham Church of England Primary School in Essex, it's a different story. They claim the river is "dying" due to alarming levels of pollution, and are now calling on authorities to take action. Water quality sampling by the nine-year-olds – with help from local climate charity PACE – has revealed concerning results.
According to the Environment Agency, multiple factors can impact water quality, including weather patterns, animal waste, road runoff, and littering. The pupils are urging immediate attention be given to the installation of a storm drain on the nearby A12, which they believe is allowing chemicals to seep into the river.
Locals have expressed concern over increased issues like litter and poor parking in the area, mirroring the children's findings. The Environment Agency has praised PACE's "citizen science" work, while welcoming new legislation aimed at improving water company regulation in England and Wales.
The pupils' efforts have been commended by their teacher, Emily Keeley, who noted they were "passionate and enthusiastic" about raising awareness for the river's plight. The children are planning to write to Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin to highlight their concerns and push for protective measures.