Several volunteers united to maintain Sidmouth's beach wildlife garden.
The autumn maintenance took place on Saturday, October 26, and was led by Sidmouth in Bloom, with support from East Devon District Council, the town council, and Sid Valley Biodiversity Group.
The area, located near the Belmont Hotel, is home to specific plants and invertebrates that thrive in the coastal environment, including the yellow-horned poppy, viper’s bugloss, and sea kale.
Despite being semi-wild, these seaside-specialist plants are at risk from invasive species like bramble and three-cornered leek.
The volunteers dedicate a few hours each spring and autumn to ensure these invasive plants do not overwhelm the space.
The Sidmouth Plastic Warriors also joined the effort, collecting litter that has ended up on the beach.
One key benefit of the tidying sessions is the interaction between volunteers and passers-by, providing an opportunity to learn more about the project.
The unique approach to nature in Sidmouth attracts visitors, including a holidaymaker this week who was so impressed she plans to write an article for her gardening group in Surrey.
The volunteers plan to return in April, primarily to remove the pretty but invasive three-cornered leek, which has become a nuisance throughout the valley.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here