Following representations from members of the public, and taking a lead from East Devon District Council, Axminster Town Council has resolved to stop using Glyphosate based weed-killers on its own land and areas it maintains with immediate effect.

It was felt by councillors that the harm from such chemicals to the environment, to wildlife and upon soil based organisms far outweighed the benefits of such use.

The council, therefore, will be exploring alternative methods of weed control and asks residents to bear with them as they undertake some trials to see what works best to keep weeds under control.

It is known that - unchecked - they can cause damage to kerbs, result in trip hazards, and are generally seen as unsightly and detrimental to the upkeep of the town's public areas.