The huge tangle of tree roots, branches and logs left by last year's flood just below the bridge in the village is being cleared by the Environment Agency.

But they have had to change their work patterns so the bird can nest and rear its young among the debris.

It will take weeks for the chicks to hatch and fledge but the law says the spot cannot be disturbed until they fly the nest.

"No nesting bird can be moved if it's sitting on eggs," said Ian Jackson, Specialist Team Member working on the river.

"As part of our bio-diversity considerations we have not been able to work in the area where the moorhen is nesting.

"We have been able to work up to it and around it. We have not been held up, we just haven't disturbed that area.

"This is the first time I have come across something like this. We are moving the debris left by the floods. We don't know how long it's going to take there are always problems involved in things like this.

"You never know what's going to crop up."

Maximum penalties under the Wildlife And Countryside Act are a fine of up to £5,000 and six months in prison.

n A year ago Oughtibridge's Coronation Park was under water. The village gala, planned for that weekend, was cancelled – no tug-of-war or egg custard competitions while people were busy bailing out their front rooms.

It's back this Saturday and events include a photography competition on the theme: The Day It Rained.


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