Devon and Cornwall’s largest environmental charity marks milestone year

The South West Lakes Trust (SWLT), the region’s largest combined environmental and recreational charity, is marking its 25th anniversary this year with a series of special events and activities designed to engage communities and celebrate a quarter-century of conserving the region’s lakes and landscapes.

Established in 2000, the charity manages 50 inland waters across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset, covering an area ranging from 1 to 900 acres. The lakes provide opportunities for watersports, angling, walking, and cycling while also safeguarding vital habitats for wildlife.

The anniversary celebrations, running from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, will feature a variety of public events, including:

• Dawn Chorus event: In partnership with Cornwall Birds, a special dawn chorus event will be held at Lower Tamar Lake in North Cornwall on Friday, April 18.

• Celebratory meal: A gathering for trustees, patrons, and key partners at Roadford Lake on May 1 to recognise the charity’s contributions.

• Open Days: Public open days at key lake sites, including Roadford, Wimbleball on Exmoor, Stithians in West Cornwall, Burrator on Dartmoor, and Longham in Dorset.

• Photography competition: The annual photographic competition will launch just before Easter, with a new historic photo category celebrating the lakes' past.

• #ItsYour25 Challenge: Supporters are invited to complete 25 activities throughout the year such as walking 25 miles, visiting 25 times, or trying 25 new activities, and share their progress online. Those who complete the challenge by November 2025 will be invited to a celebration event in early 2026.

James Platts, Chief Executive of SWLT and one of the original members since its founding, is embracing the #ItsYour25 Challenge himself, planning to take on activities such as game fishing at Kennick, sailing at Roadford, and birdwatching at Longham.

Reflecting on the Trust’s journey, James said: “As a charity, South West Lakes Trust has evolved over the past 25 years, but our commitment to protecting these special places for people and wildlife remains unwavering. We are dedicated to preserving and enhancing these beautiful countryside locations so they can be enjoyed today and for generations to come.”
Over its 25-year history, the Trust has made a significant impact:

• 47.4 million visits to the lakes

• 71,528 days donated by volunteers

• 54,887 participants engaged in educational sessions

• 1.7 million people took part in watersports or fishing

John Lee OBE DL, Chair of SWLT Trustees, said: “25 years of dedication, action, and impact in our mission to protect the environment and promote active, healthy communities is a remarkable achievement. But there is more to do as we work towards a sustainable future. Here’s to the next 25 years of making an even greater impact together!”

With around 2 million visitors annually, SWLT’s lakes provide an unmatched space for recreation, relaxation, and environmental education in the Southwest. The Trust remains committed to nurturing these spaces, ensuring they continue to support vibrant ecosystems and offer people a chance to reconnect with nature.

For more information on events, the #ItsYour25 Challenge, or to get involved, visit www.swlakestrust.org.uk