Gypsey Race Operational Catchment

About

Gypsey Race is a naturally intermittent chalk fed river that normally flows from its headwaters in and around Duggleby to West Lutton where the water sinks back into the ground. Between West Lutton and Rudston the river is normally dry. However, during very wet conditions, the water can reappear as far upstream as Wold Newton. From Rudston to the coast at Bridlington there is usually a continuous flow. It is a small river in comparison with other surface water features in East Yorkshire. Water feeds back into the chalk in the West Lutton area and re-emerges further south in the aquifer at West Beck. The catchment is mainly rural and the river is contained within a well defined valley. Flamborough Head is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as well as being a Special Area of Conservation for its important sea bird breeding colonies.