Buckingham Town Council is delighted to announce the success of this year’s two Annual River Rinse events. Once again, volunteers, divers, and local organisations joined forces to help clean and protect the River Great Ouse—a much-loved natural feature at the heart of our town.
Over Two Decades of River Care
Taking place for over 20 years, the River Rinse is a long-running environmental initiative. Each year, skilled volunteer divers from the Stowe Sub Aqua Club walk sections of the river Great Ouse to retrieve litter and debris from the riverbed. Their dedication plays a key role in keeping the river—and its surrounding habitats—healthy and clean.
Tonnes of Rubbish Removed
This year’s events were especially productive. Enough rubbish and discarded items were collected to fill a 3-tonne skip at each session. As in previous years, the divers uncovered everything from shopping trolleys and bicycles to skateboards.
However, a few unusual finds also made an appearance. Among them were a vintage milk churn, a pair of cattle horns, and more than 30 empty sherry bottles.
The divers received essential support from the Town Council’s Green Spaces Team. This team managed the removal and safe disposal of the recovered items.
In addition, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service provided assistance, bringing both expertise and enthusiasm to the clean-up effort along the riverbanks.
Importantly, the event wasn’t just about professionals. Local residents also stepped up. A team of committed community volunteers joined in with a coordinated litter pick along the riverbanks. Their efforts helped further improve the look and health of the River Great Ouse and nearby green spaces.
Cllr Robin Stuchbury, Chair of the Town Centre & Events Committee, praised everyone involved:
“The River Great Ouse is a key part of our town’s identity and environment. The River Rinse is a fantastic example of what we can achieve together to protect it. I want to thank all the volunteers, divers, and partners who took part this year—you’ve made a real difference.”
Fuelled by the WI’s Generosity
Adding to the community spirit, the ladies from the Buckingham Women’s Institute provided much-appreciated refreshments at both events. Volunteers and divers were treated to bacon sandwiches, homemade vegetarian sausage rolls and scrumptious flapjacks—a valued contribution that kept everyone energised and boosted morale throughout the clean-up.
The Annual River Rinse remains a much-loved tradition in the town’s calendar. It reflects our shared commitment to environmental care and the wellbeing of our local river.
Notes:
- For enquiries, please contact Claire Molyneux at Buckingham Town Council on 01280 816426, communications@buckingham-tc.gov.uk