21 Apr 2026
The Ver Valley Society has launched a Chalk Stream Challenge on the River Ver, offering the opportunity for young people to explore their local river and discover why chalk streams are so special.
The challenge is suitable for schools, Scouts, Guides, similar groups and supervised, keen individuals. Not only is there a suggested walk route along the Ver but there is also a choice of additional activities that are tailored to suit different age ranges. There’s plenty to do for under 7s right through to those in their mid-teens – from completing Spotter Sheets to making twig boats and a badge that can be claimed for completing the challenge.
Teachers and group leaders can learn more about the challenge for their young people and how to get the best from the river dipping loan kit at a special one-hour session on Saturday May 23. For details see riverver.co.uk/the-chalk-stream-challenge/
The loan kit, paid for from donations to the Society, consists of nets, buckets, trays, ID sheets and magnifying pots – the perfect tools for exploring the River Ver and seeing what lives beneath the surface.
VVS events manager Lee Wood said: “This is an exciting initiative which we hope will encourage and delightyounger generations. The more adventures our young people and their families have on the river, the greater chance of us being able to protect the Ver and its habitat.”
