Locals have leapt to the defence of Lyme Regis after it was listed among the UK's most "depressing town" online.

It's one of 153 towns and cities listed in a poll by iLiveHere.com to find Britain's most spirit-crushing location.

The 2024 poll marks a shift from previous years, seeking not the "worst place" to live, but settings typified by a "bland, boring, soul destroying mediocrity".

The website states the poll aims to highlight towns "devoid of cultural vibrancy, where it feels like residents merely exist, rather than live".

Examples include "suburban dormitories that become desolate after sundown or seaside resorts that transform into ghost towns in winter".

The people of Lyme Regis have reacted strongly to the poll when the Herald asked them to share their positive thoughts about the town.

One local said: "Oh, I like Lyme Regis, it is one of my favourites".

Another added: "Lyme Regis is fabulous, I live in East Devon and we absolutely love it!"

Echoing these sentiments, a resident said: "It has so much to offer and is truly beautiful".

Another staunch defender noted: "Absolutely nonsense, Lyme Regis is lovely" while one added: "It is beautiful and interesting, especially the amazing dawn and sunset".

A frustrated Midweek Herald reader remarked: "Nonsense really as it has always been special", while one baffled local added: "How rude!".

The full list of towns, which this year includes those in Wales and Scotland, does not feature any East Devon locations.