The Exe Estuary Festival on Saturday, August 8, on the Maer in Exmouth will host a series of presentations to explore the history, wildlife and importance of the Exe. One of the presenters is local naturalist Rod Lawrence; Rod is an avid fan of the Exe

The Exe Estuary Festival on Saturday, August 8, on the Maer in Exmouth will host a series of presentations to explore the history, wildlife and importance of the Exe.

One of the presenters is local naturalist Rod Lawrence; Rod is an avid fan of the Exe and dedicates much of his time helping to raise awareness of this fantastic site.

Rod said: "The Exe Estuary is very special, something that everyone living on or near it must be extremely proud of. Sixty miles long, the River Exe meanders from its source high on Exmoor through some of the most beautiful moor land, woodland and farmland to be found anywhere in the world. The Exe Valley creates an important ecological corridor connecting the South coast of Devon to Exmoor and beyond. Such corridors are of vital importance creating avenues through which animals and plants can migrate in response to climate change.

"The wildlife and scenery of the estuary and river are spectacular; the beauty of the landscape, the richness of wildlife and vibrant hustle and bustle of a well-enjoyed site. However, the river remains less understood and appreciated than the estuary but there is much to be explored. Travelling downstream from the source you pass through ever-changing landscapes and habitat which support wildlife never, or rarely, encountered on the estuary. This is the subject of my first presentation at the Exe Estuary Festival.

"Come along and find out where to go and what spectacular wildlife you can find, from red deer and wild boar to Dippers and Hen Harriers. This presentation describes how the river and the estuary are connected and why they are important, one to the other. Later in the day I will be giving a second presentation describing the connections between The Exe Estuary and Jurassic Coast. Here we will look at some beautiful, some strange, and some incredibly weird creatures that live right on your doorstep, some of which I bet you have never even heard of."

Event organiser and Exe Estuary Officer Jenny Lockett said, "The Exe Estuary Festival (Spirit of the Exe) is free to enter, including the presentations, and open to everybody, so please come along and join us. The marquee is limited on seating, so please come along early to get your place and experience the delight of the Exe. The festival is open from 11am till 5pm with different presentations, live music and a theatre performance throughout the day, as well as informative stalls from some of the key businesses, clubs and community groups around the Exe, such as Exmouth Mussels, Natural England, Stuart Line Cruises, Exe Sailing Club and many, many more.

The festival is only possible because of generous sponsorship from Devon Cliffs, Darts Farm, South West Water and the Exmouth Town Management Partnership.