We have previously featured work on the Mill Brook in relation to:

• flood management
• slowing the flow, and
• tree planting by our Sandstone Scout Group

It is terrific to report that during the last few weeks, water voles have been spotted in this stretch of water on The Sandstone Ridge.

Childhood memories of the Water Vole named 'Ratty', a leading character in the 1908 children's book 'Wind in the Willows' by Kenneth Grahame, come to mind, of that I am sure.

You will remember that Mole meets Rat (a Water Vole), who at that time of year spends all of his days in, on and close to the river.

Rat takes Mole for a ride in his rowing boat. They get along well and spend many more days boating, with Rat teaching Mole the ways of the river.