SHOPPERS help will keep a recently re-vamped Sidmouth play area in tip-top shape thanks to a town supermarket scheme.

Waitrose representatives this week handed over �220 to Sidmouth Town Council as part of the firm’s Community Matters programme.

The funds will go towards the upkeep of a childrens’ play facility on the Ham which was the subject of a �40,000 makeover earlier this year.

Town council chairman Stuart Hughes said the cash boost was “marvellous”.

The Waitrose initiative sees customers at the Stowford Rise store handed tokens at the check-out and given the opportunity to vote for one of three causes which change every month. A �1,000 cash kitty is then divided up proportionally according to votes.

Councillor Hughes added: “It’s one of the best schemes I’ve come across as they are helping people in the local community. It’s a great advert for localism and the town council is delighted and we really appreciate it.

“The money will help play for the play area – there’s always equipment that needs replacing.”