We are ‘Chalk and Stream’, a collective of nature writers, artists and a printmaker.

Winterbourne Poems

For our first collaborative volume, we explored the Winterbourne, gradually deepening our understanding and relationship with this exceptional rare chalk stream that weaves a watered song-line through Lewes.

This collection aims to bring the Winterbourne back into our consciousness. It seeks to restore an awareness of the stream's presence, its beauty and its resilience; to acknowledge the intertwined histories of water and people: and to revive the spirit of this unique stream.

Through the changing lens of season, accompanied by the creatures, plants, trees and birds who root and fly and roam nearby, we gathered words and images to create this exploratory body of work.

Cover of Winterbourne Poems

A year in the making, these 32 pages contain 15 specially written poems by members of Chalk and Stream Collective and 16 lino cut prints by Lewes artist Michelle Hockey.

How to get a copy

Community copies

We have allocated a limited number of copies to give to Lewes-based community, educational and environmental based groups. Some have already been allocated but please get in touch with Love Our Ouse (email info at loveourouse.org) to request a copy if you think your group would qualify.

Public copies

The book costs £10 and is now available for anyone to buy!
All proceeds will be reinvested into future projects by the collaborators.

Regular sale point (cash or card)

Lewes Climate Hub, Lewes House, 32 High Street, Lewes BN7 2LU (map)
Open Wednesday to Saturday from 11am to 3pm.

Local events

We have stalls at a range of events in the lead up to the festive season. What better present for a local friend or relative?

We're delighted to be selling alongside Grown in Lewes; a new book about cultivation in Lewes - past and present.

This project has been generously supported by the National Trust and the Changing Chalk Community Grants Scheme, and funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players.

About the Collective