Axminster traders are being asked to come up with ideas to encourage visitors back to the town.

East Devon District Council has received government funding from The Reopening High Streets Safely Fund (RHSSF) to support the safe opening of high streets and neighbourhood shopping areas.

The council is asking the Axminster business community for their views on how the money should be spent to provide safe and welcoming public spaces to encourage and welcome shoppers back in a bid to support business at this difficult time.

The fund will not provide grants to businesses but will help create a safer environment, instil customers' confidence and encourage visitors back into East Devon towns.

Local businesses are being asked to complete a short questionnaire which can be accessed by clicking here as soon as possible so that action can be taken swiftly.

Axminster Totally Locally, the group which promotes independent traders in the town, has urged its members to complete the survey as soon as possible, saying: "Please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire as our enthusiasm may well help us get support and funding in the future."