IT took more than a bit of mud to deter the 100 plus keen visitors from joining the Bonfire, Baked Potatoes and Butterflies day.

The event, organised by Exmoor National Park Authority was, to help remove silver birch trees from moorland.

It was to help improve the habitat for butterflies, nightjars and glow worms, and stop the area becoming dominated by trees.

Burning the trees gave an opportunity to cook some baked potatoes for lunch and a chance to relax and explore the hills.

Somerset Wildlife Trust volunteer Janet Dixon said: “It was wonderful to see so many people of all ages out working together, there much have been people there from seven to 75 years of age.”

Richard Scott from the South Molton Scout group added: “We all really enjoyed it- it's great to be out working in the fresh air in such a wonderful location.”

David Rolls, Moorland education officer said: “We were really pleased to support this event through the Changing Moorland Project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Exmoor National Park Partnership Fund.

“The next big event is the Big Adventure day at Haddon Hill, overlooking Wimbleball Reservoir on April 26 during the Easter holidays.

“This is another free event, which everyone is welcome too.”