The Pillhill Brook, a beautiful chalk stream just south of Andover, has received a boost from its neighbouring communities. This summer, a group of residents joined forces to care for this rare and precious wildlife habitat. Flowing for around 10km before joining the River Anton - and ultimately the River Test - the Pillhill Brook faces pressures from issues like flooding and sewage pollution.

By forming the Pillhill Brook Association, the residents aim to expand and co-ordinate their efforts to safeguard their chalk stream. Their activities include conducting species surveys, promoting good habitat management, assessing groundwater levels, and monitoring water quality. They are supported in their work by the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme.

The initiative was launched by Janet Wright - a geologist, local resident, and long-time champion of the Pillhill Brook. Janet became inspired through volunteering with Watercress and Winterbournes, and through her involvement in the Pillhill Pan Parish Forum; a group of nine parishes who work with Southern Water to tackle sewer network issues in the area.

You can now learn more about the Pillhill Brook Association's work, including their water quality monitoring data, on their new website. If you live in the area, why not get involved? Like Hampshire's other amazing chalk streams, the Pillhill Brook needs our help to remain a healthy habitat for species like the kingfisher, brown trout, otter, mayfly, and water vole.