reservoir Archives - The Stray Ferret

Dog owners urged to be ‘vigilant’ amid reported ‘poisoning’ at reservoir near Harrogate

Yorkshire Water has urged dog owners to be “vigilant” after reports of multiple dogs being poisoned at a reservoir near Harrogate.

Owners have taken to social media to report suspected poisoning when walking at Lindley Wood Reservoir, in the Washburn Valley, Harrogate.

Leeds man James Bevan lost his Cockerpoo, Winston, to acute kidney failure from toxic poisoning. The five-year-old dog ate something toxic on Sunday, April 7, at the reservoir and died eight days later.

Winston was a healthy award-winning agility dog and Mr Bevan said in a post on social media:

“Please do not walk in Lindley Wood at the moment with your dog. Tell people who do about this as it can’t be a coincidence and I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.

“I don’t have the words to do this justice right now. Maybe I never will. Everyone knows what he meant to us. My boy. My best friend. My team mate. My world. He changed our lives completely and made everyone who met him love him.”

Other dog owners have also taken to social media to warn walkers about the reservoir. Another dog who died from similar circumstances after being walked at the site was a puppy named Bear.

Lindley Wood, along with nearby Swinsty, Fewston and Thruscross reservoirs is owned by Yorkshire Water.

The company told the Stray Ferret that it was aware of the reports, but at this stage there has been no substance found.

However, a Yorkshire Water spokesperson urged dog owners to remain vigilant and to report anything suspicious at its reservoirs.

They said:

“We are saddened to hear of these incidents, which we were made aware of via social media. Our colleagues have not found anything suspicious at the reservoir, but we would encourage the dog owners to reach out to our customer service team and share specific details of where they were walking at the time so we can establish if this was on land owned by Yorkshire Water, and if so, support with any required investigation.

“In the meantime, we would continue to urge walkers and owners to remain vigilant and keep their dogs on a lead when walking around our reservoirs, for their safety, and the safety of surrounding wildlife.”

The Stray Ferret has also approached North Yorkshire Police for comment.

Photo of the Week: Thruscross Reservoir

This week’s photograph was taken by Rich Wilkinson, capturing a blue sky over Thruscross Reservoir and the sun reflecting across the water.

Rich Wilkinson

Photo of the Week celebrates the Harrogate district. It could be anything from family life to capturing the district’s beauty. We are interested in amateur and professional photographs, in a landscape format.

Send your photographs to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk for a chance to be featured next week, we reserve the right to adjust and crop images to fit into our format.

Swinsty and Fewston parking charges to include ‘season ticket’

Controversial parking charges at Harrogate district reservoirs are set to include season tickets, Yorkshire Water has confirmed.

The company is to introduce payment machines and automatic number plate recognition at Swinsty, Fewston and Thruscross car parks.

Yorkshire Water said previously that the revenue generated will help to pay for an in-house rangers team, which would undertake maintenance jobs and tackle anti-social behaviour at its sites.

Proposals for parking machines at both Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs have been approved by Harrogate Borough Council.

While no date has been confirmed for when charges will come in, Yorkshire Water said they will include season tickets for one or multiple sites.

A spokesperson told the Stray Ferret:

“There will be an option for visitors to purchase a ‘season ticket’ for the year which can cover just one car park or all car parks in the Washburn Valley, obviously this will work out cheaper than ‘pay as you go’ option, depending on how frequently people visit.

“The prices for the season tickets will be £30 per annum for a single site and £45 per annum for multiple sites. Blue badge holders, as previously stated, will be able to park free of charge.”

Car park users will be able to pay via card payment on site, by using the RingGo app or telephone.

The proposed tariffs will be one hour at £1, two hours at £2, six hours at £3 and an all day pass for £5.

Bransby Wilson Parking Solutions, based in York, has been appointed to operate the parking meters.

While the company said the charges will help to avert anti-social behaviour, Washburn Parish Council and local residents previously raised “serious concerns” about the impact of parking charges on local roads.

The council wrote to Harrogate Borough Council to object to the plans at both Swinsty and raised concern that the charges will “lead to unsafe conditions on local rural lanes”.

‘Use water wisely’ plea as reservoir levels drop in Harrogate district

Yorkshire Water has advised residents to use water wisely as the spell of warm, dry weather continues.

The organisation said a lack of rainfall over many months has affected the amount of water it has been able to collect in its reservoirs.

Stocks in reservoirs are at 62%, which is 18% down on usual stocks at this time of year.

Meanwhile, in the hot weather, demand is particularly high, further draining supplies in reservoirs including Fewston and Swinsty, west of Harrogate.

Yesterday, Yorkshire Water supplied over 1.5 billion litres of water, which is 200 million litres above normal levels, equivalent to 530 full 25m swimming pools.

Neil Dewis, the company’s director of water, said:

“Our region has seen a prolonged dry spell, and while we’ve not had a bumper summer of sunshine and high temperatures, there has been very little rain with just some short, sharp showers that don’t deliver the water we need in our reservoirs and rivers.

“We’ve got teams out and about across Yorkshire, working round the clock to save water from leaky pipes, prioritising larger leaks. We’re also asking our customers to help us save water where they can. Simple steps can help reduce wastage and ensure we make the most of the water we’ve got so there’s enough to go around.”

Rainfall has been below average in North Yorkshire since last autumn, when the county had only 86% of the average amount.

In winter, rainfall was 95% of the average, while in spring it was 73%. Figures for the summer so far show only 19% of an average rainfall amount has fallen, though they only reflect around a third of the season so far.

Head of the Met Office National Climate Information Centre Dr Mark McCarthy said:

“Summer so far has been drier than usual, and with little significant rain in the forecast this could lead to increasing pressure on valuable water resources.

“Climate change projections show that many parts of the UK, including Yorkshire, are likely to experience milder wetter winters and hotter and drier summers, with this year so far following that pattern.”

Yorkshire Water has advised measures including limiting showers to just four minutes, mulching flower beds to reduce the need for watering, reusing water where possible and turning off the tap while brushing teeth.

It has also said lawns do not need watering as even if they turn brown, they will quickly return to normal as soon as it rains.

West End village emerges

At Thruscross reservoir, the long dry spell has led the flooded village of West End to start appearing above the water line.

The village was evacuated in 1966 so it could be made into a reservoir, with homeowners forced to sell up to the Leeds Corporation.

Thruscross Reservoir. Photos by Louise Pullan.

Graves were exhumed before the area was flooded, but the gravestones still emerge along with some of the buildings when the water level drops, as has been happening in the last few weeks.

Louise Pullan, who owns nearby Breaks Fold Farm with husband Richard, said until recently it was quite rare for the water level to get that low:

“It has been more frequent over the last few years than it was previously. I don’t know if that’s due to a change in climate.

“It will probably get lower because they tend to use Thruscross to top up Fewston and Swinsty.

“It’s still a bit of a sore point with some of the farmers who had their land compulsorily purchased.”

Reservoir parking costs could cause ‘tremendous problems’ on nearby roads

Two local councillors have said the proposed introduction of parking charges at three local reservoirs could cause “tremendous” problems for local residents and visitors.

Yesterday, Yorkshire Water announced it would be introducing parking charges at Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross reservoirs on a trial basis.

Comments on social media indicate many people believe parking at these much-loved beauty spots should remain free. Yorkshire Water has said all funds raised will be reinvested in the sites.

Harrogate Borough councillor Victoria Oldham and parish councillor, Graham Hebblethwaite, both felt the charges could put off visitors using the car parks and that they’d park on nearby roads instead.

All three reservoirs are surrounded by farmland and narrow roads. Both councillors believe increased parking on the roads would create traffic problems, be a danger to pedestrians and potentially block the road to farm machinery.

Cllr Victoria Oldham, Conservative councillor for the Washburn ward, said:

“It will cause tremendous problems. I can understand if they are planning to make improvements but these come at an expense to others.

“When you’re out walking in a beautiful environment such as the Washburn Valley you often get distracted by the scenery but putting a timer on parking means some people may miss out on what is around them.”

Cllr Oldham said she’d be willing to talk to Yorkshire Water alongside residents about the plans.

Graham Hebblethwaite, chair of Washburn Parish Council, who lives half a mile from Fewston reservoir said:

“We have white lines on the road but that doesn’t stop people parking on them, I can’t ring 101 every time a car parks on the lines there’s just not enough time. It’s an easy money maker but they don’t have to live with it, it’s locals who will experience the problems.”

The proposed tariffs will be one hour at £1, two hours at £2, six hours at £3, an all day pass for £5 and an annual pass for £30.

The Harrogate group of ramblers often visit the reservoirs, it said in the short-term it won’t cause problems but as it looks to plan future walks the charges could mean they choose not to start from one of the reservoirs.

Keith Wadd, publicity officer for the group, said:

“Anything that discourages walking in the countryside is a retrograde step. In the longer term it is likely fewer led walks will start from one of the reservoirs.

“The Washburn Valley is virtually inaccessible on public transport so a parking charge could put some people off and makes a place of beauty less accessible.”

Those commenting on social media called for the money to be invested in refurbishing public toilets and removing fallen trees off the land. Yorkshire Water has said the money will go towards the first ever in-house Yorkshire Water ranger team.

The nine rangers will help visitors enjoy their stays, do maintenance jobs and tackle anti-social behaviour that poses a threat to people, wildlife and the environment.

Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor at Yorkshire Water, said:

“We have thought long and hard about the introduction of these charges. We believe we’ve catered for all types of visitors we see. Whether they are looking for a day out or to visit every day to walk their dog.

“As well as improving security and safety at our sites, the parking charges will also be used to fund a variety of conservation, community, and facility improvement projects. It will also help wildlife to thrive on our sites.

“Ultimately, we hope that during the trial we will see incidents of fly tipping and antisocial behaviour decrease; making these sites safer and more enjoyable for people, and more wildlife friendly too. Likewise, we hope that the charges will encourage people to at least consider travelling via public transport, cycle paths, and walking routes rather than by car.”

Yorkshire Water parking charges to make reservoirs safer and more enjoyable

This article is sponsored by Yorkshire Water.

Yorkshire Water is planning to introduce car parking charges at three reservoirs in North Yorkshire – Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross – on a trial basis.

Since making the announcement this morning Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor, wanted to explain the proposed charges, why they are being implemented and what it is hoped the trial will deliver:

“Yorkshire is blessed with fantastic outdoor spaces, including reservoirs owned and operated by Yorkshire Water.

“Over the last two years, people looked for outdoor spaces to enjoy time with their family and friends when permitted. So we’ve welcomed more people to our sites than ever before.

“Unfortunately, this period also saw an increase in anti-social behaviour at our sites. Instances of fly-tipping, the lighting of disposable barbecues, littering, vandalism are on the up.

“All of these hindered the enjoyment of our sites for visitors and posed safety risks.”

As a result, Yorkshire Water decided to introduce its first ever in-house ranger team. A total of ten rangers will be recruited to patrol, manage and maintain the reservoirs.

The rangers will be able to provide information to visitors and enhance their experience. They will also be able to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Parking charges will fund new ranger team

To fund the rangers, Yorkshire Water is trialling car parking charges at Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross. Parking charges will also be introduced at Langsett in South Yorkshire.

Mr Harvey added:

“We have thought long and hard about the introduction of these charges.

“We believe we’ve catered for all types of visitors we see. Whether they are looking for a day out or to visit every day to walk their dog.

“As well as improving security and safety at our sites, the parking charges will also be used to fund a variety of conservation, community, and facility improvement projects.

“The funds will help us increase our work with charities and community groups. It will also help wildlife to thrive on our sites.

“All of this will ensure the money visitors spend on parking is invested directly into the sites they use to further improve their experience.

“Ultimately, we hope that during the trial we will see incidents of fly tipping and antisocial behaviour decrease; making these sites safer and more enjoyable for people, and more wildlife friendly too.

“Likewise, we hope that the charges will encourage people to at least consider travelling via public transport, cycle paths, and walking routes rather than by car.”

Yorkshire Water already sponsors the Dales Bus Service, which provides a specific bus route through the Washburn Valley, on Summer Sundays and Bank Holidays.

If planning is approved for the parking meters, charges will start at £1 for an hour, £2 for 2 hours, £5 for all-day parking of £30 for an annual pass.

Yorkshire Water introduces parking charges at Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross

Yorkshire Water has revealed plans to introduce parking charges at four of its reservoirs, including Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross in North Yorkshire.

The water company has said it will apply for planning permission for parking meters this month and, if approved, they will be installed for a trial period later this year.

The proposed tariffs will be one hour at £1, two hours at £2, six hours at £3, an all day pass for £5 and an annual pass for £30.

Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross are popular with walkers and dog walkers in the Harrogate district.

The company said income raised from the charges would be “reinvested across Yorkshire Water’s sites” on nature conservation projects and improvements to facilities.

Fewston Reservoir

The charges will also contribute towards the first ever in-house Yorkshire Water ranger team. The nine rangers will help visitors enjoy their stays, do maintenance jobs and tackle anti-social behaviour that poses a threat to people, wildlife and the environment.

Alastair Harvey, lead countryside advisor at Yorkshire Water said:

“We know how important our sites are to local communities and visitors alike. We have thought long and hard about the way people use our sites before implementing this trial, as well as considering approaches at similar sites around the country.

“We believe a small parking fee and increased security will help to dissuade anti-social behaviour, such as fly-tipping, at our sites but also have a long-term positive impact in terms of the projects we can deliver in the future.

“We are collaborating with local authorities and local stakeholders to ensure the introduction of these tariffs causes minimal disruption and we will be working hard to ensure all our visitors are aware of the charges before they arrive at our sites.”

Bransby Wilson Parking Solutions, based in York, have been appointed to operate the parking meters. ANPR cameras will be installed at the sites and visitors will be able to pay via card payment on site, the RingGo app and by telephone.

Those without means to pay with them can call the phone line later in the day to pay.

Swinsty reservoir

Photographer on why Swinsty Reservoir saved his life after addiction

Dave Lobley says his love of photographing the sunrise at Swinsty Reservoir saved his life as he recovered from alcohol addiction.

The serene reservoir in the Washburn Valley has been a favourite sanctuary of Harrogate district residents for decades.

Mr Lobley, who was born and bred in Harrogate, quit drinking seven years ago after he ended up in hospital.

He said:

“It was a near-death job.

“But I came out of hospital and had a fresh chance at life.”

One of Mr Lobley’s friends bought him an old Canon camera and it ignited a new passion.

He used to work nights in Blackpool and would walk around Swinsty early in the morning when he finished his shifts.

His spectacular landscape shots of the reservoir have found an appreciative audience on the You Know You’re a Harrogotanian Facebook group, where he regularly shares them.

Swinsty Reservoir. Credit – Dave Lobley

He jokes that photography has become “my new addiction”.

“It saved my life. I was on the road to destruction.”

Mr Lobley said the popular reservoir has become a second home to him and his trusted companion, Lilian, an 11-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

He said photography helps him to express his view of the world and to stay alcohol-free.

Mr Lobley described what he thinks makes Swinsty such a special place.

“For me, the sunrise is amazing. It’s about the trees and the colours.

“With it being so close to Harrogate, it doesn’t cost anything to go there. Disabled access is very good and it’s great to see people there enjoying themselves. It’s a place to clear your mind.”

As well as photographing Swinsty and the nearby Fewston Reservoir, he enjoys taking his camera on walks around the Lake District, Wales and the Yorkshire Dales.

Swinsty Reservoir. Credit – Dave Lobley

In May, he will travel to Scottish Highlands with his partner to walk 96 miles in six days.

He wants to show other people that might be struggling with addiction that another life is possible.

“It’s a bit of closure from not drinking. I’ve come this far so I want to raise awareness if you’re struggling with addiction. There is another way, focus on photography or anything, you can beat it, rather than it beating you.”

Mr Lobley said Swinsty’s pull will always keep him coming back for more.

“When the sun’s comin up at Swinsty and you can feel the warmth, that’s the biggest high you can ask for.

“There’s nothing better.”

You can follow him on Instagram here.

Swinsty Reservoir. Credit – Dave Lobley

Memories of Scar House reservoir wanted as it celebrates centenary

People are being invited to submit memories, photos and documents relating to Scar House reservoir, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

When the reservoir was built, it was seen as one of the most ambitious civil engineering projects in Britain.

It was the focal point of the Nidd Valley reservoir scheme, and had a huge impact on Nidderdale, with hundreds of workers moving to the area to work on the scheme.

A temporary village called Scar was built to house the workforce and their families during the construction of the reservoir from 1921 to 1936. At its peak, the village housed 1,250 people.

The village had luxuries, such as flushing toilets and a 600-seat cinema. It had its own tennis courts, a fire brigade, hospital and fish and chip shop. A 13 mile (21km) light railway from Pateley Bridge was also installed.

Elizabeth Bishop, information officer at Nidderdale AONB, said:

“As the village buildings were sold off and dismantled in the 1930s, nothing much remains of this special place. It would be fantastic if more information came to light on this anniversary to help tell more of its fascinating story.”

The reservoir, which supplies water to Bradford, is now owned by Yorkshire Water.

Lisa Harrowsmith, lead surveyor at Yorkshire Water, said:

“We would love to hear from you if you have family members who were involved in the construction at Scar House, or were affected by it. We’re looking for stories, photographs and any memorabilia relating to the construction or early years of the reservoirs life, to help us celebrate its 100^th anniversary.

“The world is very different to when work began to build Scar House 100 years ago – but despite the reservoir’s age, it continues to play a key role in the water process.”

If you’d like to get involved in marking the centenary or have information you’d like to share, contact Nidderdale AONB at nidderdaleaonb@harrogate.gov.uk

Read more:

Read more:

Read more:

West End village emerges

Read more:

Parking charges will fund new ranger team

Read more:

Read more:

Read more: