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River Wey adventures and a windy day at Gilbert White’s House

An update from Water Testing Coordinator, Alex Pocock


May has already been a busy and brilliant month for our water testing community. A huge thank you to all our volunteers who have been out collecting samples from across the Wey catchment and delivering them into the lab. Last Friday alone we processed 12 samples - a smooth, well-coordinated effort that shows just how powerful this growing network has become.


We’re always looking to build our team. If you’d like to get involved as a sampler, delivery helper or lab volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. We’re particularly looking for support in Liphook, Haslemere, Godalming and Woking, as well as extra hands in the lab on Friday and Saturday mornings. Drop Alex a line at alex@waterrangers.com



Big Paddle Clean-Up with Wey Kayak Club

We were delighted to join the Big Paddle Clean-Up alongside Wey Kayak Club, River Wey Trust and Water Rangers. The river was full of life, with volunteers out in force collecting litter, supporting each other and celebrating the Wey. We spent the morning chatting with members, helping clean boats and cheering on young paddlers.


It was fantastic to see Zöe Franklin there too, handing out prizes to children who had kept paddling through the winter - a real show of dedication. The day wrapped up with pizza, ice cream and that unmistakable “Wey family” feeling. A reminder of what community action looks like at its best.



Wind, wildlife and wonder at Gilbert White’s House

Sunday brought us to Gilbert White’s House & Museum - and some very enthusiastic wind. After a slightly chaotic start (our gazebo definitely had other plans), everything settled and the day unfolded beautifully. Families gathered to explore freshwater life up close, using magnifiers and asking brilliant questions about rivers and wildlife. It was one of those days full of wet hands, wide eyes and genuine curiosity - exactly what this work is all about.



Water testing in action at ZERO

By Tuesday, the sunshine returned just in time for a hands-on water testing demonstration by the River Wey in Guildford with Zero Carbon Guildford. We walked through how to use freshwater testing kits, take accurate samples and carry out E. coli testing. These sessions are relaxed, practical and a great way to get started with citizen science. If you’d like to join the next one, you can sign up via the ZERO website.


A group of people stands outside on grass, watching a woman demonstrate using items on a bench. Air conditioning units are in the background.

Behind the scenes: Thursday packing parties

Every week, our lab at ZERO comes to life with Thursday packing parties - assembling kits, checking stock and keeping everything running smoothly. If you fancy getting involved, you can sign up through ZERO or Better Impact, or email Alex directly.


For Duke of Edinburgh students


Five people examining trays of water and debris by a stream in a grassy area. One person wears a green cap. Intense focus on the samples.

If you’re completing your Duke of Edinburgh award and interested in environmental volunteering, this is a great way to get involved. You can collect water samples on Friday mornings, carry out E. coli testing at home, and contribute real data to support river health across the Wey catchment. We’ll provide all the equipment and training you need - and you’ll be making a genuine difference.


You’re also welcome to join us at Allee’s Meadow in Liphook on the last Sunday of each month for Water Testing Weekend and Riverfly monitoring.



Join us

This work is powered by people - and there’s always room for more. Follow the River Wey Trust and Water Rangers to stay up to date, and get involved in upcoming activities. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just curious about your local river, there’s a place for you in this growing community of river guardians.


What’s coming up

  • 23–31 May - London Rivers Week 2026

  • 31 May - River Wey Trust water testing weekend

  • From 1 June - Let’s Pull Together: Balsam Bash

  • 6–14 June - Great Big Green Week 2026

  • 9 June - Writing About Rivers workshop

  • 14 June - Guildford Green Day (with ZERO, Water Rangers & River Wey Trust)

  • 13–14 June - Bramshott Open Gardens, Allee’s Meadow


If you’re planning to take part in the Balsam Bash or have ideas to help coordinate activity across the catchment, Alex would love to hear from you. alex@waterrangers.com



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