7:19pm Tuesday 7th October 2008
By Marc Meneaud
Otter spotters have braved the chilly waters of the River Aire in a major clear-up project.
The team of animal enthusiasts have been clearing debris clogging up the river near Buck Mill Lane, Thackley, as part of a five-day scheme to clear the way for water-loving creatures.
Run by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust (YWT), the Mid-Aire Otter and River Project is designed to create comfortable breeding grounds for the mammals, which are slowly returning to the river.
It was once thought impossible for wildlife such as otters to make a home anywhere near an industrial centre like Bradford after more than a century of industry caused pollution levels to soar.
Project leader Don Vine said: “We know they are further up-stream. I was at Denso Marston nature reserve speaking to their warden, who says they have had signs of them there.
“At Buck Mill, we have cleared debris for the water to run more freely. Otters like fast-flowing water and they like backwaters, so this is the place for them.”
The team included children, aged between 11 and 16, who learn at home.
They spent more than three hours clearing wood, rubbish and non-native trees such as Himalayan Balsam from the riverbank.
With the help of parents and other volunteers, they cleared a path to the river for other teams to clear up the river during the next four days.
Mr Vine, a conservation officer for YWT, said: “They have been brilliant. In just two or three hours, they have cleaned up the riverbank and got all the stuff out of the way.”
Rebekah Ashworth, 43, of Bracken Bank Walk, Keighley, brought sons Sidney, 11, and Stanley, 14, to help.
She said: “It has been hard work because it is warm but we have now stripped off our waterproofs and are all enjoying the sunshine. We will definitely be back to see the otters.”
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