An Exeter family were at the centre of celebrations as Devon Wildlife Trust hosted a garden party to celebrate their milestone membership.

John and Rachael Harris and their children Elijah, aged 8, and Erin, 6, are new members of Devon Wildlife Trust and the 100,000^th membership signed-up by South West Wildlife Fundraising Ltd (SWWFL), an Exeter-based fundraising organisation wholly owned by Wildlife Trusts.

Staff from both organisations joined the family for a presentation and afternoon tea at Devon Wildlife Trust’s Cricklepit Mill headquarters in Exeter on Friday 18 August, with Erin and Eijah enjoying a bug hunt in the garden.

John Harris said:

“We all had a great time – the children especially loved the bug-hunting activities – and are thankful to be part of such a milestone.

We really became aware of the work Devon Wildlife Trust when they took over the management of Mincinglake Valley Park. The area is good for wildlife but the charity is also making it accessible so people can be introduced to it and experience nature.

We’re already planning new places to explore, thanks to the map that came with our membership pack and are looking forward to visiting the River Otter to see if we can spot the beavers.”  

SWWFL, based at Western Way, Exeter, is also celebrating ten years of membership fundraising after being set up in 2013 by local Wildlife Trusts to provide public engagement at venues and events. It’s grown to 11 local Wildlife Trusts in England and Wales. 

Membership of local Wildlife Trusts provides vital, ongoing support, helping them to combat the climate and nature emergency while keeping members connected with what’s happening for wildlife in their county and how they can get involved.

David Stansfield, chief executive, SWWFL, said:

“We’re proud to be the face of our Wildlife Trusts in local communities they serve. The Trusts need financial support more than ever to improve local habitat and protect wildlife.”