A section of the Exe Estuary footpath and cycle path will be closed from Wednesday (6 September) to repair the flood defence embankment.

It follows the discovery of a large, two-and-a-half-metre-deep hole on the bank near Powderham, pictured above, reportedly caused by spring tides in March.

The path will be closed for around three weeks and a diversion will be in place. The Turf Hotel will stay open and can be accessed from the north.

Map showing closure and diversion (EA)

Neal Ricketts of the Environment Agency's Asset Performance Team said: "This essential work should prevent further degradation of the bank, meaning that the area can be enjoyed into the future and the nearby railway line is protected."

The repairs will include restoration to the front and back of the bank, replacement of the stone pitching, reinstatement of the footpath and cycle path and reseeding the area with native plants.