VOLUNTEERS TRANSFORM EAST DEVON THROUGH OVER 5,100 HOURS OF DEDICATION - 💚
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
East Devon’s landscapes and biodiversity have flourished in 2024 thanks to the extraordinary efforts of 160 dedicated volunteers who contributed over 5,100 hours to conservation and site improvements across the district.
The East Devon District Council Countryside team recently celebrated these remarkable achievements during a festive gathering at Offwell Woods.
The event featured a walk through the scenic woods, a talk on local wildlife by countryside ranger Ben Morgan-Brown, and festive refreshments in the log cabin.
Councillor Geoff Jung, portfolio holder for coast, country, and environment, praised the volunteers’ impact. He said, “Our 160-strong team of countryside volunteers have made an incredible impact on East Devon’s landscape. Their dedication has boosted biodiversity, with protected species like dormice and bats found across our reserves. Their tireless efforts to reduce invasive species have restored vital habitats, and their commitment to public engagement ensures that both residents and visitors are inspired to help protect our outstanding environment.”
This year, volunteers have been instrumental in projects across East Devon. At Seaton Wetlands, the Tuesday Taskforce rebuilt the boardwalk at Colyford Common and created a new viewpoint for tramway arrivals.
Meanwhile, a volunteer recruitment drive bolstered the Discovery Hut team, allowing for extended opening hours.
In collaboration with the Axe Vale and District Conservation Society, the East Devon Conservation Volunteers continued their work clearing invasive rhododendrons at Trinity Hill. They also launched new public engagement initiatives, including the Guide in the Hide event, which encourages community interaction with nature.
Countryside manager James Chubb expressed his gratitude for the volunteers’ efforts. He stated, “The dedication and hard work of our volunteers has been instrumental in protecting and enhancing our local countryside. This year, volunteers have dedicated over 5,100 hours to conservation and site improvements across East Devon, enabling the team to make a greater impact.”
Volunteers themselves reflected on the joys and rewards of their work. Lesley Clarke, a longstanding volunteer at the Seaton Wetlands Discovery Hut, said, “My husband and I have been volunteering at the Seaton Wetlands Discovery Hut for several years. We love sharing our enthusiasm for local wildlife with visitors, spending time in nature, and learning more from some of our regular visitors. If you enjoy meeting new people and have an interest in wildlife, I’d recommend finding out more about volunteering with the countryside team in 2025.”
The East Devon Countryside team is actively encouraging new volunteers to join their efforts in 2025. With opportunities to engage in conservation, habitat restoration, and community education, the team offers an enriching way to contribute to the environment.
To learn more about volunteering, contact the East Devon District Council Countryside team for information on how to get involved.
( Photo courtesy of East Devon District Council 📸 )