Volunteers for this week's Exe Estuary clean up will be treated to a cruise from Exmouth as a thank you for their hard work.

Volunteers for this week's Exe Estuary clean up will be treated to a cruise from Exmouth as a thank you for their hard work.

The organisers said the biannual clean up, from 2pm on Saturday May 15, was 'essential' for maintaining the health and vitality of the estuary.

Volunteers are needed to help clear the potentially dangerous litter from some of the key recreational and wildlife areas of the Exe.

Afterwards, as a thank you for all their work, volunteers will be treated to a Stuart Line cruise along the Exe. The cruise leaves Exmouth dock at 4.30pm and includes a buffet.

Those willing to lend a hand are asked to meet at Exmouth's Imperial Recreation Ground.

Darts Farm, at Topsham, is supplying a tractor and trailer to help collect and clear litter and from more remote areas of Exmouth's nature reserve.

Exe Estuary officer Jenny Lockett, said: "It is amazing to think that this is our sixth clean up in the last few years.

"It is such a great opportunity to get out and make a real and visible difference.

"I am always so thrilled to see all of the volunteers, some who have been to every event, as well as those experiencing it for the first time."

Councillor Bernard Hughes, chairman of the Exe Estuary management partnership, said, "The Exe Estuary clean ups are an excellent opportunity for the local community to get together and work to improve the environment and safety of the estuary.

"We are incredibly grateful to Darts Farm whose help and support for this event will make a huge difference to the amount of litter that we can clear.

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

All necessary equipment is provided but it is important that volunteers wear sensible clothing and footwear such as wellington boots or old trainers. Families are welcome, as are friendly dogs. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Anyone who would like to be involved should contact Jenny Lockett on (01392) 382236 or email jenny.lockett@devon.gov.uk to book a place.

There will also be an underwater clean up by Jurassic Coast Divers on Sunday May 16. To find out more contact Jurassic Coast Divers on (01395) 268 090 or email doc@jcdiving.co.uk