EXMOOR National Park Authority (ENPA) is joining thousands of charities and voluntary organisations which are recognising the contribution volunteers make across the UK.

It will be offering a number of activities for Volunteers’ Week, which runs from Thursday (June 1) until next Wednesday (June 7).

With this year’s theme of ‘Celebrate and Inspire’ the authority, which will celebrate its 70th anniversary next year, wants to encourage people to make a difference and become involved in volunteering with it in whatever way works for them.

Volunteer support and partnerships co-ordinator Jackie Kiberd said: “The contribution of volunteers is often unseen and unrecognised, so taking the time during Volunteers’ Week to celebrate their efforts and all they contribute to our society and local Exmoor communities has never been more important.”

The park authority will be asking people to try their hand at practical conservation activities in Ashcombe Gardens, in Simonsbath, where volunteers have been helping to bring a wild 19th century garden back to life.

On Monday (June 5) from 10 am to 3 pm its volunteer support team and volunteers will be working on site and happy to show visitors what is happening around the garden this summer.

Or, people can meet the volunteer walk leaders on one of a series of free guided walks and discover fascinating aspects of Exmoor’s history and beauty.

Other events lined up include a Lynmouth Flood guided walk on Tuesday, June 6, from 2 pm to 4 pm, and a Dunster Outback guided walk on Wednesday, June 7, from 11 am to 1.30 pm.

The ENPA volunteer team will also be at the Talking Café, in Minehead Methodist Church, on Monday, June 12, from 10 am to 12 noon to chat about its monthly communities for nature activity days on North Hill, and volunteering in general on Exmoor.

Ms Kiberd said: “Volunteers’ Week is a chance to celebrate and recognise the fantastic contribution our volunteers make.

“Volunteers bring their enthusiasm, skill and creativity and help look after Exmoor.

“They are a joy to have on our team.

“Volunteering is a fantastic way to learn more about and help care for Exmoor and brings a great many benefits both to the individual and community.”

One volunteer said: “Being able to work outdoors in such a beautiful spot, helping look after somewhere, makes me feel better - especially knowing my efforts are helping others gain enjoyment from Exmoor, too.’’