IF swingeing cuts are implemented by East Devon District Council, Honiton will lose all of its flowerbeds and hanging baskets.

IF swingeing cuts are implemented by East Devon District Council, Honiton will lose all of its flowerbeds and hanging baskets.

That's what town councillors heard last week, when they were reminded there is no spare cash in next year's budget to take on the responsibility.

Town clerk Lyn Hargood revealed talks were taking place with Honiton and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

She believed there was enthusiasm among the town's business community to sponsor floral displays in the town.

Eyebrows were raised when Councillor John Taylor revealed Honiton Town Council had been paying the district authority �5,000 a year for just 25 hanging baskets.

"That's �200 per basket, which doesn't make sense," he said.

But it was pointed out the figure included the planting, hanging, watering and removal of the displays.

Councillor Sally Casson said: "I think it is a necessity for the town to look attractive in the summer."

Tell the Herald what you think. Take part in our phone-in - call (01392) 888486 anytime on Friday and ask for the editor, Belinda Bennett.