MORE than 80 people turned out to a meeting to organise setting up a volunteer force to clear up Dawlish Brook.

WADE, Waterways Around Dawlish Environment, was set up in response to serious concerns over the state of the town’s ‘jewel’.

It was agreed to form a specially trained volunteer group to tackle minor maintenance and enhancement work on the Brook from Tuck’s Plot to Manor Gardens.

The first public meeting held at the Manor House saw potential volunteers hear a presentation from town councillor Scott Williams.

He explained how Dawlish Dawlish has its own microclimate and why it is one of few rivers in the south west that experiences flash flooding during heavy rain.

Others include Boscastle and Lynton and Lynmouth.

He also explained how volunteers would be able to smarten the Brook after some basic training, which is expected to take place in January.

Town and district councillor Rosie Dawson updated the meting on the outcome of the Teignbridge Council executive meeting, which discussed the 2,200 signature petition to ‘Save Our Brook’.

She was very encouraged by the authority’s stated aim of helping the Friends of Dawlish Brook in their endeavours.

WADE member David Force said: ‘There will be a level of funding available, as well as the regular work that contractors do on their behalf.

‘There was then a lively discussion on various aspects of the Brook and the difficulties we could encounter due to rules, regulations and red tape.

‘There was a determination that we should work closely with Teignbridge District Council, Dawlish Town Council and the Environment Agency to do what we can to improve the aesthetic appearance of the Brook.’

This was considered imperative in light of the disruption that will be caused by South West Water for several months next year.

Other points raised included the amount of work being carried out by the Environment Agency on Shutterton Brook as opposed to Dawlish Brook.

James Manning pointed out that the properties around Tuck’s Plot seem more susceptible to flooding since the new sea wall was built.

There was also some debate on whether the Brook is a river or a canal.

Despite it having been canalised in 1807, it is in fact a river as it flows into the sea.

Cllr Dawson pointed out that the Environment Agency had been responsible for dredging the Brook in the past but its current thinking is that dredging is not a viable option these days.

Names and email addresses of potential volunteers were taken.

Work will start as soon as feasible with the aim of making the Brook look as good as possible for the tourist season which campaigners say is ‘imperative’ in view of the disruption from work being carried out by South West Water.

WADE will operate under the Action on Climate in Teignbridge organisation and its experienced wardens will provide training including water safety.

Dawlish Town Council will provide occasional financial help through grant funds for tools and equipment, pay for any relevant training and insurance premiums.