Estuary inspires

SCHOOL children from Brixington have been heading out into the Exe estuary to learn about the geography and ecology of the area.

It has been part of a project run by Exe estuary officer, Jenny Lockett, that has seen more than 500 pupils looking at the life of the estuary.

Four classes from Brixington have taken part in the project.

Teaching assistant Margaret Mackinnon said of the sessions, "They are absolutely fantastic and provide a great opportunity for outdoor education. They have tied in really well with our current topic of geography, which has helped to bring the classroom learning to life."

Class teacher Miss Hughesdon said: "This is an experience that the class would not otherwise have been able to enjoy and learn from but has given them the confidence, skills and knowledge to now come back and explore more of this amazing site which is right on their doorstep."

Jenny said, "One of the main things we look at is the different species that live on the estuary and how they are able to cope with the ever-changing conditions. We look at the types of shells such as cockles, periwinkles and Hydrobia, as well as dig up lug worms and fish in the channel for shrimps, small fish and crabs to name a few.