VOLUNTEERS are needed to help manage visitors to one of the most spectacular annual nature events on Exmoor.

Snowdrop Valley, near Wheddon Cross, will be open for people to visit this year from January 25 through to February 23, weather permitting.

The display of tens of thousands of snowdrops carpeting the remote valley attracts huge numbers of visitors each year and is organised by Cutcombe Parish Council, courtesy of landowners the Badgworthy Land Company and with support from Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA).

Snowdrops are one of the first plants to flower in the New Year and are said to herald the coming of spring.

But the council’s Snowdrop Valley committee is faced with managing visitors to avoid issues with car parking and to ensure they find their way safely to and from the valley about a mile from the village and are able to access refreshments.

Committee volunteer co-ordinator Jim Winzer, who is giving up the role this year, said anybody who could spare ‘even a couple of hours’ on any of the days should contact him by calling 07593 199021 or emailing [email protected].

The event also sees Exmoor Farmers Market allow its car park to be used by visitors and Cutcombe First School hold a refreshment stall.

This year’s event is able to go ahead after a group of locals, including Mr Winzer, Paul Parfitt, Phil Farmer, and Nick Winzer, cleared about 40 trees which were brought down by December’s Storm Darragh.

Committee chairman Cllr Eric Norman and a team of volunteers also worked to clear all the paths.

Mr Parfitt also cleared trees for last year’s event, which was eventually closed two days early because of the bad weather conditions.

A committee spokesperson said: “We are currently looking to sign up volunteers now to help manage the car park and to help direct visitors.

“All proceeds from the event go toward supporting the local community.”

ENPA rangers this year have also allocated at least two new seats to be installed on Snowdrop Valley’s paths.

Road access to Snowdrop Valley is closed to all vehicles except permit holders during the event dates.