Conservation volunteers receive £420 from Waitrose Community Matters

Community cash boost will enable council to purchase new tools so volunteers can carry out their work

East Devon’s conservation volunteers, who support the work of the East Devon District Council Countryside ranger with practical site management and conservation tasks throughout the year, have received a funding boost from Waitrose Community Matters of £420.

The money will be used to purchase new tools to help volunteers carry out tasks such as hedge laying, fence building and invasive species clearance at nature reserves across East Devon.

Cllr Tom Wright, East Devon District Council's portfolio holder for the environment said: ‘’The Countryside team is supported by a dedicated group of enthusiastic volunteers who enable East Devon’s nature reserves to remain outstanding. The funding will enable tools to be replaced and upgraded so that their work can continue to benefit local residents and visitors and support a diverse range of wildlife.’’

The East Devon conservation volunteering group has over 30 volunteers who meet on a weekly basis under the guidance of Countryside Ranger, Nathan Robinson.

Commenting on the funding windfall, Nathan Robinson said: “The volunteers do an amazing job supporting the work of the Countryside team. Many volunteers let me know how much they enjoy working together, making new friends and the many health benefits of nature’s green gym. The funds will enable us to make some much needed kit improvements, which will benefit everyone who visits East Devon’s nature reserves.’’

The East Devon Conservation Volunteers work across multiple nature reserves including Holyford Woods, Trinity Hill and Knapp Copse. Everyone is encouraged to work at their own pace and there is no experience required. To find out more about the work of the Countryside team and opportunities to get involved with volunteering visit: wildeastdevon.co.uk.

The Countryside team can be contacted via email: countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk or telephone: 01395 517557.