A TEAM of volunteers dedicated to clearing up the Brook in Dawlish has been officially launched.

WADE - Waterways Around the Dawlish Environment - was set up in response to concerns over the state of the town’s waterway.

Now the volunteers have been fully trained on water safety and provided with tools to start work.

WADE co-ordinators are now liaising with Teignbridge Council and a schedule of work has also been drawn up.

The project began in October last year following a raft of complaints and concerns about the visual appearance and condition of the Brook.

Proposals were put to Dawlish Town Council and WADE was born.

The volunteers are aiming to cover the Brook’s length from Tuck’s Plot to Manor Gardens.

One of the founders town councillor Scott Williams said: ‘We will act with a light touch, with nature preservation and water quality at the core - putting the wildfowl, pollinators, water based wildlife and fish first.

‘Most of the Brook bays and neighbouring flora are in a condition that will be enhanced by WADE, in some places we have started already.

'As trained Wildlife Wardens, they all advocate for embracing nature-based solutions.

‘Not only are these approaches potentially more effective in flood prevention, but they also support biodiversity, enriching our green space and waterways, and prepare us for a climate-challenged future.

‘Restoring the Brook naturally can bring back its charm and make it a jewel of our town once again.

‘A thriving example of a community coming together to put nature at the heart of their town.’

Some initial clearing and planting work has already started.

The group will also be carrying out water quality testing.

WADE is operating under the Action on Climate in Teignbridge organisation and Dawlish Town Council is to provide occasional financial help through grant funds for tools and equipment.