The Friends of the Byes (FOTB) have been handed £640 from the Sid Vale Association’s Keith Owen Fund so that two kilos of mixed wild flower seeds can be planted.

Kati Fitzhenry, who received the cheque from the Reverend Handel Bennett, said: “This will enable us to plant wild flowers in the Sid Meadow, at the side of the Byes.

“It will make a great show later this year.”

Mr Bennett added: “This sort of project is very much in tune with Keith Owen’s hope, that his money would be used where it can benefit the whole community. The intention, I know, is to try to make the wild flowers a sustainable crop, which will give pleasure to all who walk the Byes for years to come.”

The Friends of the Byes welcomes anyone who wants to help in all sorts of ways in the Byes.

Volunteers gathered in Sid Meadow on Saturday and Tuesday April to rotavate the ground, spread the wildflower seeds and rake them gently in.

East Devon District Council parks department kindly prepared the new area by spraying and cutting the grass.

Aside from the Keith Owen Fund money, a collection from generous locals and visitors to the Byes raised £230 towards the seeds.

“Last year’s wildflower area at the top part of Sid Meadow has been left to see what comes up and at the moment it looks rich and diverse, so fingers crossed this will put on a good show,” said FOTB’s Michael Horsnell.

Helpers are being sought for volunteer days tomorrow (Saturday, April 26) when a clearing of the Toll house flowerbed will take place along with planting of more trees along river bank.

On Saturday, May 10, herbs and mulberries will be planted in the community orchard and mulching of trees will also take place.

Sessions take place from 10am to noon.

Email Kati at kati@fitzhenry.me or 01395 578344 for more information.