We are very lucky to live close to both the Rivers Itchen and Test, two of the most beautiful chalk stream rivers in the world. I can walk alongside parts of the Itchen from my home, without getting in the car, and many of my favourite circuits take me down sections of each river. In 2017 I read ‘Life of a Chalk Stream’ by Simon Cooper which is a delicious, gentle reflection on the year of a river keeper, and I learnt much about the environment which I take for granted. I recommend it to all who are interested in the landscape and the creatures within it. You don’t need to enjoy fly fishing to appreciate the mesmerising account of the love and care of the ecosystem that lies behind the pastime.
