AN annual appeal has been issued for people to help with Exmoor’s Snowdrop Valley festival, when millions of the tiny flowers can be seen in bloom.

Snowdrops are some of the first plants to flower in the New Year and the sturdy bulbs even push through snow to bloom.

Each year, they create one of the most spectacular annual nature events seen on Exmoor in a hidden valley a mile outside Wheddon Cross.

The 2026 festival, centred on Exmoor’s highest village, is scheduled for four weeks from January 24 to February 22.

Cutcombe Parish Council organises the event and needs volunteers to help with visitor access to the remote valley, which is permitted by the Badgworthy Land Co, supported by Exmoor National Park Authority.

Volunteers help with car parking, directions to the valley, and generally making visitors feel welcome.

A council spokesperson said: “If you could spare even just an hour during the Snowdrop Valley Event in 2026, please get in touch.

“Come and join the Snowdrop Valley team.

“Bring a friend or make new friends.

“An hour makes a difference.”

The spokesperson said all Snowdrop Valley proceeds were used to help support the local Cutcombe and Wheddon Cross community.

They said: “The event is run entirely by a group of local volunteers and we are on the look out for new volunteers to come and join our friendly team.

“Could you spare a morning or afternoon during the event dates?

“If yes, we would love to hear from you.”

A Visit Somerset spokesperson said: “There are various walking routes for visitors to enjoy, the most popular being the shorter walks, which are approximately one mile down to the valley and looping back uphill for a further mile.

“Maps of the walks will be available from the parking kiosk, which will be staffed daily.

“Refreshments options are available in the village.”

A cash-only Snowdrop Valley Café in the valley with cake and a hot drink from 11 am to 2 pm is run by volunteers and is raising funds for Friends of Cutcombe and Exford Schools.

The Cutcombe Market Café in the village will also be open and Wheddon Cross has a local shop, petrol station, and cash machine, while lunches will be available in The Rest and Be Thankful pub, for which group bookings need to be made by calling 01643 841222.

There are free public toilets in the pub’s car park.

A festival spokesperson said: “It is winter, the weather can be variable, and the paths are muddy.

“Please ensure you wear suitable warm and waterproof clothes, sturdy footwear is essential.

“The paths are muddy and slippery and walked entirely at your own risk.

“The organisers accept no responsibility for any loss or damage to property or persons.

“You can bring your dog to Snowdrop Valley.

“We do ask you keep them on a lead and pick up after them.”

Anybody who wants to register their interest in helping should contact parish clerk Elizabeth Stitt by emailing [email protected] or calling 07919001801 or 07593199021.