Sidmouth residents who’re concerned about the climate emergency are being encouraged to join a group dedicated to taking action on a local level.

The Climate Awareness Partnership Sidmouth (CAPS) was set up in the Sid Valley more than a year ago. Its first goal was to help people understand their carbon footprint and how their individual lifestyle affects the environment.

CAPS worked with its partners, including local churches, to hold the 'Good for Change' event last March. In the summer a survey by  CAPS showed ‘significant motivation to act’, and in October, CAPS launched its monthly newsletter, working closely with its lead partner the Town Council.

This year CAPS wants to galvanise residents, businesses, groups and individuals in the Sid Valley into doing more to combat climate change.

Dave Bramley from CAPS said: “We understand that people want to see real progress on the ground – and so we're hoping to look at energy generation, food production and other possible actions we can take forward here in the Sid Valley.

"We also received some excellent feedback from our survey last year and that has encouraged us in turn to keep up the debate and engagement on the issues.”

CAPS are particularly keen to spread the 'good news' that is happening locally and further afield on the climate – and much of this is shared in the regular blog pieces on the CAPS website. They are expecting further positive stories to come out in the coming year – despite the prediction that 2024 will be the hottest year on record.

Dave said: “If anyone would like to get on to our mailing list, just contact us through our website or Facebook page.

“Anyone can be a partner of CAPS. You don't have to be an organisation or suchlike. If you have any ideas, energy or experience, please do get in touch or go to the CAPS website: https://caps.vgsidmouth.co.uk/

“We really want to make 2024 the year of us pushing not only a better awareness of the climate, but action on climate – here in the Sid Valley.”