Call for volunteers to clear fast-growing Himalayan Balsam from the Coly Valley

Volunteers are being recruited to help rid the Coly Valley of an alien invader.

Teams of helpers are needed to clear fast-growing Himalayan Balsam from Honiton down to Colyford.

The plant is an invasive species and is causing havoc with local riverbank habitats.

The clearance sessions will run from 10am until 3.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, with plenty of breaks.

The work doesn’t involve using tools nor is it heavy going and sessions will run from now through to October.

Organiser Louise Woolley said: “The sooner we can clear it the better before it is in flower.

“A packed lunch and drinks will be needed as well as long sleeves, trousers and wellies - hopefully sun cream and a sun hat will be needed too!

“The area I am co-ordinating runs from Colyford through to Honiton on the river Coly and its tributaries. If anyone is interested in taking part they should contact me and we can arrange the date and location to suit.

“Other dates and other areas are available if those aren’t suitable, especially in the Corry Brook area.”

Contact Lousie on 01395 512536 or 07905418460 or e mail her at louisewoolley@hotmail.co.uk