ALVATIA: Ingsby - River Ive

River Ive at Ingsby

Bordered by reeds and willows, the Ive flows past Ingsby. In mid-winter, the water meadow floods, but otherwise the river remains within its muddy banks. The stream is generally 25 to 30 feet wide, and 12 to 12 feet deep in the center. Except in winter, the current is slow enough to be no problem for even a poor swimmer; it is cold and clear all year round.

Small fish (maily eels) teem in the river, with a few larger types. The lords of the manor have never concerned themselves with regulating fishing rights; the villagers therefore fish with some enthusiasm -- but little luck. Many places on both banks bear the muddy footprints of hopeful anglers.