VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help look after the King Charles III England Coast Path, which runs through West Somerset and Exmoor.

Somerset Council is encouraging people to sign up as ‘rights of way volunteers’, particularly if they like the outdoors and want to help others explore the joys of the county’s network of paths.

There are six trails which are currently being promoted by the authority’s rights of way team, including Somerset’s 65-mile long section of the England Coast Path.

It is a National Trail and one of the most popular walks in Somerset.

Promoted trails are divided into sections of various length and volunteers can choose from the available sections to ensure their volunteering can fit around other commitments.

Those who sign up for the role receive a map or directional guide for their section of trail and can request gloves and secateurs to help keep the route clear.

There is a self-led, online induction to complete and other optional eLearning available if people want to find out more about the council, volunteering, and rights of way.

The council is currently developing a guide for how to report back on the status of sections of trail and the role also includes an option to help seek feedback from people using the trail through visitor survey questionnaires.

Some of the tasks which volunteers undertake are to three or four times a year walk their ‘watched’ section of trail and record findings, carry out light cutting back of vegetation from around gates, stiles, bridges, and signposts, and waymark trails to ensure the route is easy to follow.

Anybody who is interested in volunteering can contact the rights of way team by calling 01823 358250 or emailing [email protected].