The people of Seaton are being invited to share their stories about four popular local natural beauty spots at a special Devon Wildlife Trust event being held next Tuesday (July 21)The sites, distributed around the town, have been pinpointed as Discovery Points and each one will have a unique sculpture as well as an interpretation pillar explaining why these places are of such importance to our natural environment.
The Trust, in partnership with East Devon District Council, is now appealing for help from Seaton residents to collate stories about each site which can be used for future events at each location. They are being invited to drop in to the event at Seaton Town Hall from 4.30pm to 7pm.
The four Discovery Points are at: Seaton Wetlands, Axmouth Harbour, Seaton Seafront and Seaton Hole. The sculpture at Seaton Wetlands will be ‘The Stargazer’, a stargazing circle which doubles-up as a sundial; ‘The Prow’ is the Axmouth Harbour feature reminiscent of the seafaring glory; ‘The Waves’ frame the Seaton seafront, reminding us of the dance between sea and shore, and ‘The Portal’ showcases the rich diversity within the rockpools of Seaton Hole.
Mike Ruiter, Seaton Jurassic Centre Manager, said: “The Discovery Points are such an important part of Seaton Jurassic’s aims to encourage visitors to explore the area and enjoy the fantastic local natural environment. I want these features to be more than sculptures; they should be theatre stages where we can tell the stories hidden in the landscape.
“Since joining the project, I have spoken to many local people about the history of Seaton and every time I have learned something new. Now imagine if we could share our rich natural history with visitors to the town through these sculptures and public events. It would mean we can inspire future generations to look after these places and be proud of their unique natural heritage.”
Mike added: “This public information event is all about local people sharing their knowledge of these special natural places as well as thinking about ways to tell these stories to visitors to the town. We can then create an events programme that celebrates these hidden gems.”
Cllr Phil Skinner, East Devon District Council’s Cabinet member for the economy, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Seaton to get involved in putting together the stories behind these beautiful places. I do urge people to go along and join in.”
