Countryside service announced as Exeter Living Award finalists

East Devon District Council's Countryside team is delighted to announce that it has made it to the finals of the Exeter Living Awards in the Leisure and Tourism category.

The team, which manages ten nature reserves across East Devon, including the flagship site at Seaton Wetlands, is thrilled to be recognised for its contribution to residents, tourists and the local economy.

Seaton Wetlands offers nearly 4 kilometres of paths and boardwalks through beautiful marshland and reed beds alongside the river Axe. The site is home to an abundance of wildlife, and is popular with bird watchers, walkers and families.  You can easily access Seaton Wetlands with bikes, wheelchairs and pushchairs, and are able to hire an off-road mobility tramper, making the site truly accessible to all.

Throughout the year the team runs a range of exciting events to suit all ages, including outdoor yoga, regular ‘What’s that bird?’ guided bird watching sessions and adventure trails during school holidays.

Councillor Iain Chubb, East Devon District Council's portfolio holder for the environment said: ‘’Making it to the finals of the Exeter Living Awards is a fantastic achievement for the Countryside team and demonstrates the benefits their work brings for tourism in Devon.

‘’The team manage sites such as Seaton Wetlands for the enjoyment of local residents, tourists and wildlife. The exciting events programme, accessible trails and warm welcome from staff or volunteers showcases the team’s commitment to local wildlife and to providing an excellent visitor experience.’’

‘’I wish the Countryside team the best of luck in the awards process and congratulate them on being finalists in a highly competitive category.’’

To find out more about the work of the Countryside team and their contribution to leisure and tourism find them on social media @wildeastdevon. The team can be contacted via email: countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk or calling: 01395 517557.