Exmouth competition seeks showstopping images of endangered bird on Exe Estuary

Aspiring artists and budding photographers living in and around Exmouth are this month being invited to enter a competition that encourages locals to share their showstopping images of an endangered species of bird, the curlew, which can often be spotted on the Exe Estuary. 

The competition aims to raise awareness and celebrate the beauty of this rare bird, which shares the same name as The Curlews - a new McCarthy Stone Retirement Living Plus community in Exmouth.  Characterised by their slender, down-curved bill and mottled brown plumage, curlews are more abundant in winter and can be found feeding in groups, making it the perfect opportunity to snap a winning shot at this time of year. 

Entrants into the competition, which is being organised byMcCarthy Stone, are encouraged to submit their photos or paintings of the curlew by 11th January 2024. Each entry will be judged by a panel of McCarthy Stone homeowners and staff where one lucky winner will be chosen to have their picture go on display to be enjoyed by visitors and friends and family of the future homeowners at The Curlews. The prize also includes an £150 Hobbycraft voucher. 

In addition, McCarthy Stone will donate £250 to the RSPB, which helps to restore, protect, and care for natural habitats, such as the Exe which is home to more than 20,000 species of ‘wading bird’, many of which are rare or endangered. 

Nicki Beswarick, Divisional Marketing Manager at McCarthy Stone, commented: “Known for its evocative, bubbling call which can be heard echoing across the estuary, curlews have become a firm favourite among local birdwatchers. Not only do they symbolise the natural beauty of Exmouth, but they also provide a sense of serenity, which we too will aim to offer atThe Curlews. 

“We’re looking forward to seeing each of the entries and admiring how they uniquely capture the beautiful scenery of the Exe and its long-legged residents.”

Each entrant is permitted to submit a maximum of five photos, and these should be no more than three years old. These should be emailed to mccarthyandstone@mccann.com by the closing date of 11th January 2024 with ‘Exe Estuary Curlews’ in the subject.  In your email you should include your full name and a title for your photograph or painting. The competition is open to all ages. Under 16s must ask an adult’s permission. For full details of how to enter and terms and conditions visit:https://www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/the-curlews-endangered-bird-competition/

Set just two miles from Exmouth’s lively town centre and the beautiful Sandy Bay beaches, The Curlews will feature a stunning selection of 59 one and two bedroom low-maintenance and energy efficient apartments, where the over 70s can enjoy an independent lifestyle within a vibrant and social community of like-minded people.

Future homeowners will get to enjoy stylish communal facilities, including a well-appointed lounge, wellness suite, bistro, and stunning landscaped gardens. A handy guest suite also means friends and family can enjoy privacy when they come to stay.

A dedicated Estate Management team will be on site around the clock to provide tailored domestic support and personal care to suit individual needs, granting retirees the independence they desire while ensuring support is readily available. Further peace of mind comes from a 24-hour emergency call system and the very latest security features including video door entry and an intruder alarm.

More than nine out of 10 customers would recommend McCarthy Stone to a friend, ensuring it has received the full Five Star award for customer satisfaction from the Home Builders Federation. McCarthy Stone is the only UK housebuilder of any size or type to achieve this rating every year it has taken part in the survey.

For more information about Retirement Living Plus in Exmouth call 0800 153 3076 or visit www.mccarthystone.co.uk/the-curlews.