EIGHTY people gathered in Dulverton Town Hall on recently to celebrate the wonderful wildlife of Exmoor and the work of the numerous volunteers and organisations who help to safeguard it.

It was clear right from the outset that the work of the organisations present (including Exmoor National Park Authority, RSPB, Devon Wildlife Trust and Butterfly Conservation) has been considerably enhanced by the invaluable contribution of a dedicated network of volunteers and by working together in partnership. 
 
The event also celebrated the success of the New Ecologists project, a two year project which comes to an end this year. The New Ecologists project has helped to reach nearly 5,000 individuals through a programme of training and family-friendly events spanning the last two years.

In addition the project has developed a series of resources for schools and engaged with over 900 school children.
 
According to one of Exmoor National Park Authority's Wildlife Conservation Officers, Bea Davis, "We are fortunate on Exmoor to be surrounded by an amazing wealth of wildlife, and to have so many people who are dedicated to keeping it that way. It was fantastic to see people come together to celebrate a small sample of the hard work that goes on for wildlife around the National Park. The atmosphere had such a buzz and vibrancy to it and we hope the event may have inspired more people to get involved." 
 
 Commenting on the day, Dr Stephen Head, Exmoor National Park Authority Member said: "At a time when all conservation organisations are under tight financial constraints, it is really exciting to see how so much important work for Exmoor can be done with the help of our brilliant volunteers - and how much they gain from it too".
 
If you would like to get involved with volunteering for wildlife on Exmoor please contact Patrick Watts-Mabbott or Jackie Kiberd on 01398 323665 or info@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk.