A petition has been launched calling for Sidmouth to become a plastic-free town.

Denise Bickley, who started the campaign, said the ‘beautiful’ resort ‘deserves more than being a litter bin’ and it should be at the forefront of change coming across the country.

She is calling on the town council to seriously consider installing water fountains, encourage retailers to stop selling bottled drinks and for eateries and supermarkets to stop giving away plastic straws, cutlery and cup lids.

The petition also says more recycling bins should be installed on the seafront and throughout the town and traders should be encouraged to stop using plastic bags.

Denise said: “Sidmouth is a beautiful town that deserves more than being a litter bin. “Let us take the brave step of encouraging local traders, local people and tourists all alike to look after our beautiful town and find ways to change our throwaway society. “We do regular beach and street cleans but this is not enough against the tidal wave of rubbish being thrown away every day.”

Click here to view the petition.