From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, October 24, 2007

RELEASE ON BEHALF OF THE EXE ESTUARY MANAGEMENT PARTNERSHIP

A NEW edition of the free guide to exploring the Exe Estuary is now available.

The Exe Explorer leaflet has been updated to provide clear information on everything needed to plan an outing or to refer to en route.

It includes details of all forms of available transport, including the various ferry services, routes around the Estuary for walking and cycling and birdwatching, including information on accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs, as well as providing the location of RSPB reserves, toilets, refreshments, parking, cycle hire and bus stops.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Chair of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership and Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "The previous leaflet proved very popular with walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers to help them make the most of this fantastic area and its wildlife, and this new version builds on that success and provides the most up-to-date information. The guide is easy to use for everyone who wants to explore the estuary, and for walkers and cyclists, the routes are colour-coded to demonstrate whether they are on-road or off-road stretches."

The leaflet contains the latest information on the National Cycle Network development around the Estuary, The Exe Estuary Trail. It also offers concise summaries on some of the key sights of interest and features, such as Brunel's pumping station and picturesque towns.

The Exe Estuary Management Partnership, made up of Devon County Council, East Devon District Council, Teignbridge District Council, Exmouth Town Council, Natural England and the RSPB, has also announced the appointment of Jenny Lockett as the new Exe Estuary Officer. She will be representing the Partnership in its delivery of key objectives from the Exe Estuary Management Plan while working to support the local communities, groups and users around the Estuary. Jenny will also be working to provide education events on the Estuary for local school children, as well as volunteer and community opportunities.

The Exe Explorer is available from Tourist Information Centres in Exeter, Exmouth and Dawlish as well as some local pubs, Post Offices and libraries. Alternatively, you can download a copy or find more information about the partnership from the website, www.exe-estuary.org or contact Exe Estuary Officer Jenny Lockett on 01392 382236 or email exeestua@devon.gov.uk

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers 01297 680384.

For further information contact:

Jenny Lockett, Exe Estuary Officer, Exe Estuary Partnership, Lucombe House, County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter EX2 4QW

Tel: 01392 382236 / Fax: 01392 382135 / Mobile: 07967 456376

Email: jenny.lockett@devon.gov.uk