From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, May 09, 2008

RELEASE ON BEHALF OF THE EXE ESTUARY MANAGEMENT PARTNERSHIP

THE Exe Estuary Management Partnership is working with the Devon Wildlife Trust to offer volunteers the opportunity to get involved with the management of the Old Sludge Beds on the Estuary.

Volunteers are needed between 10am and 3.30pm on Friday 16 May to help create boardwalks on the site. These structures will improve public access to the nature reserve and allow the Devon Wildlife Trust to monitor the wildlife and habitat condition.

The day is part of a series of volunteer opportunities being organised by the Exe Estuary Management Partnership at different locations on the Estuary between May and November.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Chairman of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership and Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "The aim of the events is to allow local communities the opportunity to get more involved with the practical management of the Exe Estuary, meet new friends and get active in beautiful surroundings."

The Old Sludge Beds are named after their former use as part of the slurry storage for the water works. They were given to the Devon Wildlife Trust to manage as a nature reserve in 1979. The reserve is a major stop-off point for migrating birds and many stay on to breed, including the Cetti's Warbler.

Some of the upcoming volunteer events will take place on weekdays, while others will be at weekends to give everybody the opportunity to get involved. All of the events will take place between 10 am and 3.30 pm and will include a complimentary light lunch.

Jenny Lockett, Exe Estuary Officer, said: "Full instruction of the task will be given as well as a safety brief and all necessary tools and protective clothing will be provided."

Volunteer spaces are limited due to health and safety precautions. To book your place please contact the Exe Estuary Officer on 01392 382236 or email exeestua@devon.gov.uk

Notes for Editors:

For further information, and photographs, 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