FISHERMEN along the banks of Redbridge’s River Roding have slammed an ‘alarming’ new government report which suggests it could run dry over the next 50 years.

According to a study by the Environment Agency, over the next 40 years the effects of climate change might be so bad that waterflows in the Roding during the autumn months could fall by up to 80 per cent, while other waterways could also suffer.

Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, Dr Paul Leinster, said the “ground-breaking” research indicated a harsh future for England’s rivers, but the forecast has been treated with a large dose of scepticism by people in the borough.

Keen fisherman Mike Smith, of Waverley Road in South Woodford, is a member of the Hollow Angling Society. He said: “I’m 65 and I’ve lived by this river all my life. I can tell you that river is no different now to what it was like back when I was a child.

“The reason the water might look low is because there’s so many weeds and reeds there, that’s the problem.

“The weather man can’t even predict the weather tomorrow. My home’s been flooded by the river before so I’m more worried about that, rather than it running out. I can’t see it happening.

“At the same time we’ve got another department of the Environment Agency saying London’s all going to flood. They’re just covering all the odds.”

Derek Howard, treasurer of the Billericay and District Angling Club, which has a licence to fish on sections of the river, said: “I think the chances of the Environment Agency’s prediction coming true are extremely slim.

“Climate change should mean wetter winters, and seeing as the Roding is a clay-based river, when the rain water flows into it, levels should actually rise.

“I’m sure the Roding, like Old Father Thames, will keep rolling along.”

Meanwhile, Redbridge Council has appealed for people living near the river to help out in the event of any future flooding, by becoming flood wardens.

Residents who would like to take part are encouraged to attend a meeting on Tuesday November 4, at 7.15pm, in Broadmead Baptist Church, Chigwell Road, Woodford Green. Alternatively, call 8708 5897 for more information.