VOLUNTEERS are being urged to help give the Exe Estuary a spring clean next week.

VOLUNTEERS are being urged to help give the Exe Estuary a spring clean next week.

Since 2008 volunteers have maintained the health of the globally important Exe Estuary by helping to clear waste.

This waste not only harms wildlife but risks the safety of walkers, dogs and their owners, kite surfers and bird watchers.

And afterwards volunteers will be treated to Stuart Line Cruises for a free cruise of the estuary, including a buffet, at 1pm.

For the clean up the Exe Estuary Management Partnership is again joining forces with Darts Farm who are providing a tractor and trailer to help collect the litter.

Exe Estuary Officer, Stephanie Clark, said “It is outstanding to think that volunteers from local communities care enough about our environment to step forward and do something about it. This our eighth clean up event and I am very much looking forward to seeing both old and new volunteers come together on the day and make a real difference to the Exe.”

Councillor Bernard Hughes OBE, Chairman of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership said, “The Exe Estuary Clean Ups are an excellent opportunity for the local community of the Estuary to get together and work to improve the environment and safety of the estuary.”

“The support of local businesses, such as Darts Farm, Stuart Line, Jurassic Coast Divers, Exmouth Mussels and Leese’s Skip Hire has proved incredibly important at all of the events we have run and demonstrates their commitment to the estuary.”

An invite has also been extended to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Kitesurfing associations.

Gloves and equipment are provided but volunteers must 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; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Volunteers should meet at the Imperial Recreation Ground in Exmouth at 10am on May 14.

If you are interested call or email the Estuary Officer Stephanie Clark on 01392 382236 or at exeestua@devon.gov.uk.