A charity which cares for the River Waveney is looking to launch a youth section for youngsters in Beccles to learn about local wildlife.

The River Waveney Trust (RWT) is a charity formed from the River Waveney Association founded in March 2012, and is part of the national Rivers Trust movement.

RWT has five groups running in Beccles, Bungay, Lowestoft/Oulton Broad, Diss and Harleston, as well as an active sub-group in Scole, with members working together to deliver projects along the river, run working parties and social events.

And now the trust is looking to launch a Beccles branch of its Halcyons Youth Section, offering youngsters between the ages of five and 14 the chance to learn more about local wildlife and become involved in the work of the trust.

A RWT spokesman said: “Membership of Halcyons will enable children to be invited along to events throughout the year during school holidays.

“We are currently looking to carry out an event on Beccles Quay during the May school holidays and if successful another event in the summer holidays. “If these are successful a Beccles branch of Halycons will be formed with regular meetings and activities to encourage a love for our river and its wildlife at an early age.”

The aim of the RWT and its members is to care for the River Waveney, its ecology, water quality and environment guided by the Broadland Catchment Plan.

The trust has two events coming up this month, starting with a talk by naturalist Tony Brown on ‘The River Waveney and its Wildlife’. This will take place on Monday, April 9, at Blyburgate Hall in Beccles, with doors opening at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets are £5 and include a complementary drink and nibbles on arrival. All profits will go to the RWT.

Then on Tuesday, April 17, a River Waveney litter pick is being organised, leaving Beccles Lido at 3pm. The event is being held in conjunction with Beccles Bombles and equipment will be supplied.

For further information on either of these events, call 07398832628.

For further details about the Halcyons Youth Section, email Janine Lascelles at halcyonrwt@gmail.com

The River Waveney Trust website can be found at www.rwt.tidyhq.com