A MAJOR three‑year restoration project at Stover Country Park has now been completed, and the public are invited to help celebrate the occasion next weekend.

The Restoring Stover Park Project has seen more than £4.2 million invested in the park. Half of the funding came from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the remainder provided by Devon County Council and a range of partners, (see Note to Editors for full list of funders).

The project has transformed the park for wildlife, heritage and visitors. It marks the biggest programme of improvement at Stover for generations.

Next Wednesday (4 March), invited guests including funders, contractors, community partners and volunteers, are attending a private celebration to thank all those involved in the restoration programme.

Guests will mark the occasion by unveiling a commemorative granite plinth, planting trees in new woodland and celebrating Stover’s history.

Celebrations continue on Sunday, March 8, with a free public event at Stover Country Park.

Everyone is welcome to drop in between 10am and 3pm to explore the improvements and enjoy family‑friendly activities.

Over the three years of the restoration, volunteers have played a vital role in the project, contributing more than 5,500 hours caring for Stover’s wildlife and heritage.

The project has delivered new and improved facilities, restored historic features, improved paths and trails, and carried out major work to improve Stover Lake and its wildlife.

It has also helped more people enjoy the park through education, volunteering and community activities.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: ‘This project shows what can be achieved when people and experts come together to care for a special place. Stover Country Park is now better protected for the future and even more welcoming for visitors.

‘It is an extraordinary achievement for our heritage and wildlife in this wonderful location and a moment to celebrate as Stover opens up for everyone to appreciate and enjoy’.

For more information, email [email protected]