Many readers of The Guardian turn first to the 'Country Diary' page when opening the newspaper. We are encouraging the pupils and parents of The William Barnes School in Sturminster Newton, and any one else who would like to join in, to make their own River Diaries. Diaries are often written for one's private pleasure - but these accounts of the natural history of the River Stour are meant for public consumption. We hope they will include personal observations and musings as well as bald lists of species, water and weather conditions. The best diaries connect personal observations with larger events - local and national.
Many historians go to diaries as source material.
They can be very valuable records - and we hope that the diaries we are promoting will be gathered for safekeeping in the library or local archive. Although they have performed nationally, and have been involved with Confluence composers' workshops, this was their first live performance in the catchment. The trio of clarinet, 'cello and double bass have a diverse and attractive repertoire ranging from arrangements of medieval lute songs to jazz and new music by members of the ensemble. They hope to play more widely in the catchment over the coming year, and if you are interested in booking them for an event, please contact us for more information. Karen Wimhurst is a composer and musician.