Every September, volunteers usually converge on the Exe Estuary for an annual autumn clean-up removing everything from litter, glass and clothing to metal, broken crab pots and rusting car wheels.

However, because of COVID-19 and the 'Rule of Six', this year's autumn clean-up at the Local Nature Reserve at Exmouth is unable to take place.

Instead, users of the area, including walkers, watersports enthusiasts and cyclists using the Exe Estuary Trial, are being asked to take a bag with them and pick up any rubbish they see while they are enjoying what the area has to offer.

While members of the public are urged to help keep the beauty spot tidy and safe for local wildlife, if they find any particularly large or potentially dangerous items, like sheets of rusting metal, to contact the Exe Estuary Officer Jay Boyle.

Chair of the Exe Estuary Partnership, Cllr Jeff Trail BEM said: "Over the many years that the partnership has coordinated clean-up events, there has been a significant decrease in rubbish found in the area.

"However, with the restrictions regarding gatherings of more than six people, this year's clean-up will have to take a different form.

"It's important that we maintain the momentum to ensure that the area stays tidy, that's why this year we are asking that everyone who enjoys the beauty of the estuary plays their part.

"If every user picks up a single item, either on the shoreline near The Duckpond, on the Imperial Recreation Ground, or along the Exe Estuary Trail, it will make a huge difference.

"It will help protect wildlife and mean when the annual clean up resumes next year, there will be less for the volunteers to clear up."

Exe Estuary Partnership Officer Jay Boyle said: "The annual clean-up helps create a safer environment for recreational users, families and helps protect local wildlife at this internationally important site. This year we are asking that everyone play a small part.

"However, if there is an item that is particularly large, or potentially dangerous I would urge that you contact me."

You can contact the Exe Estuary Officer by emailing: [email protected]