North Devon Residents Urged to Join Urgent Beach Cleanup on Jan 31

UPDATE: Residents of North Devon and Torridge are called to action for the fourth annual Day of Action on January 31, 2026. This urgent community cleanup event, organized by Earth Action North Devon (EAND), aims to combat the escalating threat of plastic pollution affecting local beaches, parks, and communities.

Participants of all ages are invited to join organized clean-ups or conduct their own litter-picking efforts to tackle this pressing environmental issue. Volunteers will focus on critical areas including Northam Burrows, Instow Beach, and the scenic Tarka Trail, among others. Anne-Marie Eveleigh, operations manager at EAND, emphasizes the importance of community involvement, stating,

“Every action adds up. The Day of Action connects people through shared purpose and pride in where we live, and it’s amazing what that can spark.”

Plastic pollution poses a severe threat to both the environment and human health, with global plastic production projected to triple by 2060. Microplastics have been found in food, human blood, and even the deepest parts of the oceans. Local action is vital; each piece of litter collected fosters community pride and supports broader environmental campaigns.

The Day of Action will take place from 10 AM to 12 PM at various locations, including:
– Northam Burrows – meet at Westward Ho! slipway
– Bideford Tarka Trail – meet at Bideford Station platform at 11:30 AM
– Instow Beach – meet at The Glorious Oyster, Sandhills car park from 11 AM to 1 PM
– Rock Park, Barnstaple – meet on Ladies Mile from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Newport, Barnstaple – meet in B&M car park from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Crow Point, Braunton – meet at Crow Point car park from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Croyde Beach – meet by the slipway from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Woolacombe Beach – meet at Mill Rock from 10:30 AM to 12 PM
– Lee Bay, Ilfracombe – meet at Lee Beach slipway from 9:30 AM to 11 AM
– Wildersmouth Beach, Ilfracombe – meet at beach entrance from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Hele Bay, Ilfracombe – meet at beach entrance from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Lynmouth (family-friendly) – meet on the Esplanade by the Rhenish Tower from 10 AM to 12 PM
– Lee Bay, Lynton (for the adventurous) – meet at Exmoor National Park car park, Valley of Rocks from 10 AM to 12 PM

For those unable to participate in organized sessions, EAND encourages individuals to conduct their own clean-ups, providing guidance, equipment, and promotional support. Schools and businesses can also get involved during the week of January 26–31.

Participants are invited to log their clean-ups and enter a prize draw for a chance to win a Dryrobe® or a Hydro Flask. EAND is also actively seeking local businesses to sponsor the 2026 Day of Action and future clean-up initiatives.

Future clean-ups in 2026 include multiple dates at Saunton Beach and Instow Beach, contributing to ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment.

For more details, to register a clean-up, or discuss sponsorship opportunities, visit www.earthactionnorthdevon.org or email [email protected]. Join the fight against plastic pollution and make an impact in your community!