A VISIT to the first Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) around Lundy Island was just one of the trips that Huw Irranca-Davies, UK Minister for Marine and the Natural Environment, took on a two-day visit to Devon last week.

Accompanied by colleagues from Natural England, the Finding Sanctuary MCZ project and the Marine Conservation Society, Mr Irranca-Davies was shown the sights that make Lundy such a special place, including porpoises, guillemots and seals. He then returned to Ilfracombe and met members of the local community.

The next day started with a trip to a Plymouth fish market to see the high-tech system of internet bidding for that day’s catch, followed by a look at the range of research which ensures that Plymouth remains at the cutting edge of marine research internationally.

The Minister then joined the 50th anniversary celebrations at Sharpham Estate, on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in South Devon, marked with specially produced cheese developed on the onsite creamery and beer from a local micro-brewery.  Sharpham Estate works to preserve local traditions while encouraging every part of the community to enjoy the wide variety of outdoor activities on offer – from growing vegetables to camping and canoeing on the River Dart.

Mr Irranca-Davies said: “Getting out of the office and actually seeing Defra policy live is an essential and enjoyable part of my job, and the two packed days I’ve spent in Devon have been an inspiring experience.”