East Devon District Council Countryside Team Thank Volunteers for Their Achievements Across Local Nature Reserves

East Devon District Council's Countryside team recently celebrated the contributions of their volunteers at a festive gathering held at Offwell Woods.

The event recognised the vital role volunteers play in maintaining and improving East Devon's nature reserves.

The celebration began with a walk through the woods, followed by mince pies in the on-site log cabin. The volunteers were treated to a talk about the site and its diverse wildlife, with details about the fascinating bat species found at the site shared by Countryside Ranger Ben Morgan-Brown.

Councillor Geoff Jung, Portfolio Holder Coast, Country and Environment 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.”

Countryside Manager James Chubb expressed his thanks to the volunteers, acknowledging their incredible contributions throughout the year. James said: “The dedication and hard work of our volunteers has been instrumental in protecting and enhancing our local countryside. This year volunteers have dedicated over 5100 hours to conversation and site improvements across East Devon, enabling the team to make a greater impact.”

In 2024, the Seaton Wetlands Tuesday Taskforce volunteers undertook a major rebuild of the boardwalk at Colyford Common, ensuring safe and enjoyable access for visitors. The team also created a brand-new viewpoint for those arriving via the tramway, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

A successful volunteer recruitment drive resulted in a boost of Discovery Hut volunteers at Seaton Wetlands, the additional manpower enabled extended opening hours for visitors looking to learn more about the site management, the wildlife found at the wetlands and to warm up with a hot drink!

Working in partnership with the Axe Vale and District Conservation Society, the East Devon Conservation Volunteers continued to clear invasive rhododendron at Trinity Hill, helping native species thrive.

Volunteers also played a key role in public engagement initiatives, including the newly launched ‘Guide in the Hide’ event, ensured bird hides were well-maintained for visitors, and assisted with surveying efforts to help the team monitor conservation progress.

Countryside volunteer Lesley Clarke 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 Countryside team invites anyone interested in conservation and nature to get involved in volunteering. Visit wildeastdevon.co.uk or contact the Countryside team to find the volunteering role to suit you.