‘Thames Champion’ appointed by district council

SOUTH Oxfordshire District Councillor, Jo Robb, has been appointed to the new post of Thames Champion after Green Councillors pushed for the creation of the role. 

Cllr Jo Robb, (left) with other members of the Henley Mermaids, wild swimming group

The Thames Champion will network with river users, councillors and neighbouring councils to improve access to, and protect and enhance the biodiversity and water quality of the river.

A first challenge will be to stop Thames Water releasing raw sewage into the river and, in the meantime, to ensure that river users and communities have access to real-time information about when this happens. 

“All rivers should have bathing quality water – waters fit for swimming.,” said Jo, who is herself a very keen wild swimmer, and a member of the Henley Mermaids. Jo was the Green Party candidate in the May 2019, General Election.