Mile 11 Gargrave 391'

So far much of the River Aire has looked very straight and straightened. Straightening effectively shortens the river and reduces its water holding capacity. Straightening, while increasing flood risk, makes room for roads, railways and more pasture.

Here, the Aire has been left to meander and it’s steep eroded banks are burrowed by sandmartins. The lowest laying meadows are the realm of oystercatchers and the cattle as you can see here, moved politely away to let me pass. Perfect.

I loved this field and aim to return to see if I photograph the fast-flying martins.