By JOHN WARE Volunteers turned out to help with the habitat management at the renowned Dawlish Warren nature reserve. They spent the day clearing reeds, small trees and other invasive plants, to maintain the wildlife value around the main pond.

Octogenarian Marguerite Fensome is proving age is no barrier when it comes to bracing outdoor swimming. She regularly goes for a dip in the Exe estuary with a friend to keep fit.

The impact of flooding on a nature reserve and the rail artery into the Westcountry will form part of a study into rising sea levels and climate change.

THE avocet is a black-and-white wader with a long up-curved beak. It is the emblem of the RSPB and symbolises the bird protection movement in the UK more than any other species. Its return and growth since the 1940s represents one of the most successful conservation and protection projects.