Hardworking volunteers in Beer giving up their time to make a difference have been praised for their community spirit and dedication.

Sidmouth Herald: Volunteers working on the Self ShelterVolunteers working on the Self Shelter (Image: Archant)

Residents have answered the call of parish councillors Maureen Westlake and Mandy Graham to form working parties to spruce up the village’s Jubilee area.

Some 20 helpers have joined the Beer Volunteer Group, taking on a number of projects including the ‘rejuvenation’ of the Self Shelter.

Cllr Westlake said the idea was to try and replace the man-power lost by council cutbacks.

She said: “The whole idea is we are trying to take up some of the slack and carry out some of the jobs that we are able to.

“I am very thankful to these people; I cannot stress it enough how hard they have worked and what a difference they have made.

“I’m thrilled with the folk that have responded to the appeal for volunteers.”

Fellow parish councillors have praised the efforts of both their colleagues and their ‘trusty band of volunteers’.

Annie Dallaway, parish clerk, said the councillors ‘proactive’ response has brought about a fantastic team to make sure the Jubilee area is cared for.

She added: “Volunteers have weeded and swept public areas, sanded down and varnished benches and carried out minor maintenance jobs.

“The volunteers deserve an accolade – they have demonstrated great community spirit, teamwork and a real pride in Beer.”

Cllr Westlake is inviting residents to bring their brooms down to the Jubilee to help with sweeping on Wednesday, August 3. A group of volunteers will be down from 8.30am.