A NEW ecological trust to protect beautiful streams and rivers from pollution in Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire has been launched at Somerley House on the banks of the Avon near Ringwood.

With a membership drawn from six interested organisations, the Wessex Chalk Stream and Rivers Trust has been formed to work for the benefit of rivers stretching from the Meon in the east to the Stour in the west and their tributaries.

Organisations contributing to the trust are the Avon and Stour Rivers Association, Wiltshire Fishery Association, Test and Itchen Association, Wessex Salmon and Rivers Trust, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Wessex Chalk Streams and Rivers Trust director Tom Davis stressed the six groups will continue to exist, but the new trust will represent their views on issues like abstraction by water companies, pollution and maintaining the health of the rivers and streams and their wildlife.

It will also comment on things like European strategy documents and obtain a general concensus of opinions, saving duplication.

In addition, it will work closely with the water companies, both suppliers and sewage service providers, to ensure that water flows are maintained and the rivers are clean and devoid of pesticides, phosphates and other fertiliser chemicals which wash off fields, run out of fish farms, watercress beds and private sewage systems, and affect wildlife.

The trust says it will provide advocacy to ensure the fragile riverine eco-systems are understood and protected, and inform the public, inspiring a sense of value and promoting a sense of responsibility.

It will deliver action through conservation projects, direct funding and provide advice.

It will also bring together organisations with common interests and promote and support scientific research.

People can support the trust by donation or become involved by telephoning 01794 341874.