Volunteers maintain East Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

East Devon District Council’s Countryside Team has been overwhelmed by the commitment and generosity of local volunteers.

Throughout 2015, they dedicated an astonishing 4,500 hours of service to the East Devon Countryside team, maintaining and preserving important nature reserves.

Cllr Iain Chubb, the council’s portfolio holder for the Environment, said:  “Volunteers offer a range of skills and experience and are an invaluable resource to the Countryside team.

“Without their work, the East Devon countryside and the abundance of wildlife we enjoy would be very different.“

During most weekends, the Information Centre at Seaton Wetlands is hosted by volunteers who provide local knowledge, hot drinks and access to the disabled Tramper vehicle.

Every week, there are two groups who run practical work at various sites including Knapps Copse, Trinity Hill and Holyford Woods. The volunteers assist with a range of tasks including scrub clearance, tree coppicing and hedgelaying in order to promote wildlife conservation.

In addition, there are volunteers who run monthly Meet the Bird sessions, maintain the hides at the Seaton Wetlands, support the Countryside team events and much more!

For more information on volunteering opportunities and the EDDC Countryside Team please contact countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk or call 01395 571707 or visit http://eastdevon.gov.uk/countryside/volunteering/

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