Volunteers Tackle Years of Tangled Fishing Gear in North Devon Cleanup

Croyde: In late December, the North Devon Coast National Landscape team got busy. They tackled a huge pile of fishing gear washed up on the coast. With winter storms rolling in, it was the perfect time to act.

They teamed up with folks from Plastic Free North Devon, North Devon Biosphere, and Northam Burrows Country Park. Together, they pulled a bunch of lobster pots and a massive fishing net from the rocks at Downend. This mess had been sitting there for years, so it was definitely time for a cleanup.

Jenny Carey-Wood, the National Landscape manager, shared how marine litter is a real problem. It can harm wildlife and ruin the beauty of our beaches. She thanked everyone who helped, especially local landowner Rupert Hare and North Devon Council for their support.

Evie Giblett, a team member, mentioned they’ve set up a rapid response team. If you spot any litter on the coast, just shoot them an email at aonb@devon.gov.uk. They’re eager to help out! Plus, there are regular litter pick events organized by local groups, which you can find on their website.

If you want to join in on the beach cleans or learn more about events in North Devon, just reach out or check their site!