The Washbrook Wombles

Oadby-based group The Washbrook Wombles has been set up to take care of the Washbrook and reduce the risk of flooding.

The Washbrook Wombles is led by residents of The Morwoods whose properties border the brook, designating them as riparian owners and meaning that they have a responsibility for the brook’s maintenance.

Recently heavy rainfall has seen unprecedentedly high levels of water along the banks of the Washbrook, and in 2023 water levels rose by over 6ft entering four houses on The Morwoods.

The Washbrook Wombles organise regular group clearing events to ensure the brook is free of obstructions and debris, which will allow it to remain free-flowing and reduce the risk of future flooding. Some of the debris The Washbrook Wombles cleared from the river in summer 2023 is pictured below.

The Washbrook Wombles is open to volunteers as well as the riparian owners, and anyone who would like to join in can find more information on the group’s Facebook page.

The group is also encouraging the riparian owners to get involved and fulfil their obligations to the brook by:

• Pruning overhanging branches and shrubs
• Not leaving garden waste in or near the brook
• Not disposing household waste anywhere near the bank – during heavy storms it may end up in the Washbrook
• Preserving the Washbrook by checking and keeping it free from obstructions and debris on a regular basis