Volunteers need for Exe Estuary clearup
The Exe Estuary Partnership is inviting members of the public to lend a hand with a litter pick in Exmouth on Saturday 10 May.
Meeting at the Imperial Recreation Ground slipway in Exmouth at 10am, volunteers who help with a couple of hours of litter picking will be able to enjoy a relaxing cruise on the estuary with free buffet, although places are limited.
Over the past few years volunteers have had a substantial impact on the health of the globally important Exe Estuary by helping to clear large and often dangerous items of litter that accumulate in the estuary. There may well be plenty of debris lurking in the mud after the storms over the last winter.
This litter and waste not only detracts from the beautiful landscape and harms wildlife but is also a hazard for people who enjoy using the site for recreation – for dog walking, water sports, and bird watching.
Last year’s spring clean did not take place because of the works to the embankment around Imperial Recreation Ground. However, the hardy souls who braved the elements to join the autumn clean up collected an amazing 2.22 tonnes of rubbish. The haul included old anchors, tyres, barrels of concrete, lengths of chain – and more bizarre items such as pillows, men’s swimming trunks and ladies’ tights.
The one-hour cruise after the clean up is provided by Stuart Line Cruises exclusively for volunteers, and the boat departs from Exmouth Quay at 1pm.
Exe Estuary Officer Midge Kelly said “The estuary clean ups are great fun, good exercise and a chance to do something really useful to bring a sparkle to the estuary for this summer. It’s incredible how much rubbish is collected and who knows what’s out there waiting for us. It is essential for the wildlife, safety and beauty of the Exe that these events continue, but they are completely reliant on the help and support of volunteers. The lovely cruise afterwards is the perfect way to relish the feeling of a job well done, and the onboard buffet is always appreciated after the exertions of the morning. I hope that lots of people will come along on Saturday and join in. There is no need to book onto the event, just turn up – the more the merrier!”
Councillor Bernard Hughes OBE, Chairman of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership, said: “The regular Exe Estuary Clean Ups have always been really popular activities for families. It’s an excellent example of residents and local businesses pulling together to improve the environment and safety of the estuary. Our thanks must go to local organisations such as East Devon District Council and the National Trust, and businesses including Stuart Line Cruises and Leese’s Skip Hire, whose help makes a huge difference to the amount of litter that we can clear. Their support also demonstrates their fantastic commitment to the estuary.”
Some gloves and necessary equipment are provided but it is important that volunteers wear sensible clothing and footwear such as wellies or old trainers. Families are welcome (including friendly dogs), but children must be accompanied by an adult.
If you have any queries about the Exmouth event, please contact the Exe Estuary Officer Midge Kelly on 01392 382236 or email midge.kelly@devon.gov.uk
Photo Credit: Deemac Photography via Devon Newscentre
