Aerial view of Exmouth Ref: 23-05-0043SH

A litter-pick of the Exe takes place next weekend and volunteers are being sought for what will be the 10th anniversary of the event.

A decade of cleaning up the Exe estuary is being celebrated with a litter pick-up on Saturday May 19.

Volunteers are being asked to meet at the Imperial Recreation Ground in Exmouth at 12 noon to spend a couple of hours cleaning up the Exe.

Those taking part will have their efforts rewarded with a free river cruise and buffet at 3pm for up to 80 people onboard Stuart Line Cruises.

Exe Estuary officer Midge Kelly said the clean-up was ‘essential for the wildlife, safety and beauty of the Exe’.

The officer said past volunteers had made a ‘substantial impact’ on the health of the Exe estuary, by helping to clear large and often dangerous items of litter, adding: “It is fantastic to see that people from the local community care enough about the estuary environment to give up their time, roll up their sleeves and do something about it.

“This our tenth clean up event and I am very much looking forward to seeing both old and new volunteers come together on the day and make a real difference to the Exe.”

Gloves and necessary equipment are provided but volunteers are advised to wear sensible clothing and footwear such as wellies or old trainers.

Families are welcome and well-behaved dogs. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The organisers are asking anyone interested in attending to contact the estuary officer Midge Kelly on 01392 382236 or email exeestua@devon.gov.uk