Volunteers wanted for Exe Estuary clean-up

Volunteers are needed for an event to help clean up the Exe Estuary.

People are asked to meet at the Imperial Recreation Ground slipway in Exmouth at 2pm on Saturday 13 May, to spend a couple of hours cleaning up the estuary.

Staff from the local McDonald’s will be on hand to offer refreshments prior to the clean.

After a couple of hours of cleaning, Tim and Kelly Barnes, owners of Krispies Fish & Chips, have offered to feed volunteers with a hot supper of Fish & Chips, free of charge! Krispies have just won a national award for their chips – they are officially the best in Britain! Not only that, but they are passionate about sourcing sustainable fish, which are taken from fish populations which are at healthy levels whilst protecting the marine environment.

Following this, volunteers will be welcomed aboard a fantastic free cruise of the beautiful estuary, courtesy of the family-run Stuart Line Cruises.

Exe Estuary Officer, Stephanie Clark, says:  "This will be the 19th clean-up event of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership, and is another excellent opportunity for the local community to come together and improve the health of our estuary.

"Local volunteers offer their time year after year to clear tons of rubbish that accumulates in the estuary, items that can be hazardous to not only wildlife but also the people who enjoy using the site for recreation, such as walking their dogs and kite surfing.

“The support of local businesses, such as Stuart Line Cruises, Krispies Fish & Chips, and McDonalds, has proved incredibly important at all of the events we have run and demonstrates their commitment to the estuary. 

“We are also grateful to local organisations such as East Devon District Council and the National Trust, whose help with this event will make a huge difference to the amount of litter that we can clear. 

“It is essential for the wildlife, safety and beauty of the Exe that these clean up events continue, but they are completely reliant on your help and support.”

Limited places are available, so anyone interested in attending are asked to email or call Stephanie in advance on exeestua@devon.gov.uk or 01392 382236, to book their place.

Gloves and necessary equipment are provided but it is important that volunteers wear sensible clothing and footwear such as wellies or old trainers, and bring sun cream just in case!  Families are welcome, as are friendly dogs on leads; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Pictured are volunteers on Stuart Lines following a previous clean up event.