Robert Plant Lends Voice to River Severn Conservation Effort

A rock icon has backed a campaign group’s attempts to “protect and rejuvenate” the River Severn.

During SustFest, Communities Against River Pollution (CARP) organised a ‘Remember Our River’ parade and service in Bewdley to raise awareness about river pollution. Participants dressed in river-themed attire and held fish on poles.

On Sunday (June 15), more than 250 people marched silently through town behind a magnificent casket to mourn the river’s death, which was caused by a poisonous mixture of sewage and agricultural pollutants.

Members of the local WI, Bewdley Rowing Club members, and local fisherman all participated, as did celebrity face Robert Plant, who has openly supported the cause.

Robert Plant, a CARP supporter, stated: “If you sit on the river bank, I challenge you to see a fish jumping and feeding.” We cannot stand by and watch this happen. It cannot be ignored. It’s time for everyone to work together.”

Many more people joined the parade as it approached Jubilee Gardens, spreading a good message of hope that by working together, we can make things better.

The service, led by Mel Beynon, Rector of St Anne’s Church, and accompanied by Wyre Forest Climate Choir, aimed to acknowledge the river’s current state and celebrate its potential future.

There were public displays and stalls, and family could have picnics in Jubilee Gardens or eat at The Garden Kitchen.

Dee Edwards, Chair of CARP, stated: “We must build on today. We need more volunteers to become River Stewards, who will look after a section of the river and report pollution to us. We also need people to actively participate in campaigns and write to our MP, Severn Trent, and the Environment Agency to demand change.

“This is the river that existed long before Bewdley town expanded into what it is today. It attracts tourists, walkers, anglers, and nature lovers.

“We want to preserve and revive it. CARP is a volunteer organisation, and in order to continue this essential work, we need donations to support more chemical testing kits and campaign events like this one.”