THE River Severn is Worcester's greatest natural asset. Much of our city's architectural heritage was lost during the planning vandalism of the 1950s and 60s, so it is hardly surprising that we Vigornians like to feel a special affinity with the waterway the Romans christened Sabrina.

Sadly, we do not accord this old lady the respect she deserves. In fact, it would be no exaggeration to say that she has become more of an abused wife rather than much-loved partner. For increasingly, the river is being transformed into a rubbish dump as it wends its sad way through this faithless city.

Down the years, this newspaper has been a tireless campaigning voice for the welfare of our environment. Long before councillors and other public figures accepted - or indeed, admitted - there was a problem, we were at the forefront of campaigns to protect the world in which we live.

True to this tradition, we today call on the authorities to clear the many obstructions that can now be observed littering the riverbed between The Old Rectifying House and South Quay. Most of these items - traffic cones, bicycles, trolleys and other assorted ironwork - have been thrown in by louts. In an ideal world, we would like to see such work come under the aegis of community service orders, but there are probably any number of health and safety issues that might prevent this happening.

However, this is a job that must be done, and the Worcester News is therefore looking to the city council to give the city's jewel in the crown a metaphorical polish.