ON FRIDAY, March 13, the next in a series of volunteer days will take place on the Axe Estuary Wetlands.

ON FRIDAY, March 13, the next in a series of volunteer days will take place on the Axe Estuary Wetlands. This time, the task is fencing at Colyford Common, to allow more scrub and rush to develop at the edge of one field.For January's project, volunteers cleared roosting areas for wildfowl on the Borrow Pit island at Seaton Marshes. Luckily the boat provided was flat-bottomed and had wheels because, on the morning in question, the pond was completely frozen over and 7 volunteers had to scoot across the ice using ropes to pull each other to and fro! Volunteer Christine Sullivan, from Seaton, enjoys helping out on the volunteer work parties because she says: "It's so satisfying to look back and see what you have achieved at the end of the day. It feels great to be out in the fresh air, learning practical skills and doing something positive for wildlife". Dave Palmer, East Devon District Council's Countryside Ranger, who has been working on the nature reserves and the South West Coast Path for many years, said: "There is plenty of work planned on the Axe reserves and we would really welcome more volunteers to come along and take part. Volunteer work days usually start at 10 a.m. and run until 4 p.m., but if you can't spare the whole day, please just come along for as long as you want".EDDC's Countryside Service has produced a leaflet giving details of all the volunteer work parties and events for 2009. Please phone 01395 517 557 for a copy to be sent to you, or pick the leaflet up at the Seaton TIC. Future volunteer projects planned for the year include creating and clearing paths, installing fences and gates and joining the Axe Vale and District Conservation Society's annual litter pick. For anyone who would like to help with the fencing on 13 March, the group will be meeting at Colyford Memorial Hall at 10.00 a.m. Bring a packed lunch, stout boots and warm clothes.