A lifelong Buckfastleigh resident has written in with a heartfelt nudge for us all, sharing concerns about how the town is looking at the moment and wondering whether a small volunteer effort might help turn the tide.

They say: “Having lived in the town all my life (went to Bfl Primary) and worked here as well I am now somewhat upset to see how untidy and unkept the town has become… It’s not just the state of the roads it’s the overhanging of growth, weeds and bigger things growing out from the pavements etc. leaving some places only to walk in the road.”

They add: “There appears to be no council workers in groups available so is it time something perhaps on a voluntary group basis be formed and have a go ourselves… Buckfastleigh is a nice town and it just don’t get shown as it should… It’s not a note to complain just a thought whether or not something better could be done.”

Fancy lending a hand? Late summer growth can make our Devon lanes and pavements feel a bit hemmed in, and plenty of towns run occasional “tidy days” where neighbours pick litter, sweep paths, and report bigger issues for the authorities to sort. If there’s interest locally, a simple get‑together could be arranged to explore what’s safe and practical for volunteers.

If you’re interested, here are a few easy first steps:

• Register your interest in a light-touch volunteer tidy‑up group so we can gauge numbers.
• Suggest spots that most need attention (overhanging growth, weedy kerbs, litter hot‑spots).
• If there’s enough interest, agree a time to meet and plan a small, safe starter session.
• Keep it sensible: volunteers usually stick to light tasks on pavements and open spaces, and report highway defects or anything hazardous to the appropriate council team.

The writer hopes others will respond: “Maybe in next months newsletter others may write in or even arrange a meeting just to see what reactions there have been.” If you’d like to add your voice, do let us know — we’d love to hear from residents who could spare an hour now and then. Your support really does make a difference.

To connect with local groups who may be interested in this idea, or to share details for a proposed Buckfastleigh tidy‑up group, please contact paulbennet27@hotmail.co.uk