BRIDPORT is in the running to be named the nation’s favourite market town.

Named as one of the top ten in Britain, a campaign is under way to get locals and visitors voting to make the town the top of the poll.

The ten nominees in the favourite market town category were selected by travel writer Brigid Benson, who said: “Bridport celebrates the high quality of local food producers at bustling markets and an annual food festival."

Town council leader Coun Sarah Williams urged people to vote for Bridport.

“It is fantastic news that Bridport has been recognised as one of the top ten market towns in Britain.

“It is particularly pleasing that this refers to our local food producers and retailers, as well as the vibrancy and variety of our market.

“The town deserves this accolade and I very much hope that everyone will take this opportunity to vote for Bridport in the next stage.”

Coun Ros Kayes said: “A whole range of community organisations have been developing an array of high quality cultural activities in the town and have been sharing the qualities of our unique town far and wide over the last three or four years.

“It's great to get a result, but it would be even better to win. The impact on our local economy would be huge.”

The category for market towns is one of ten in the BBC Countryfile Magazine awards which include favourite conservation projects, heritage attractions and nature reserves.

Votes can be emailed or logged online before September 30.

For more information see bridportnews.co.uk

In the battle to become the nation’s favourite market town Bridport is up against:

  • Totnes, Devon
  • Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
  • St Ives, Cornwall
  • Whitstable in Kent
  • Oban, Argyll
  • Bute, Scotland
  • Narberth, Pembrokeshire
  • Church Stretton, Shropshire,
  • Peebles, Scottish borders
  • Whitby in North Yorkshire