FORUM 21, the local sustainability group, is now established in its own premises on Watchet's Esplanade, where a small office holds the forum's growing information and resource collection on environmental and sustainable issues.

During its first year, the forum has been asking local people and organisations for their ideas on what needs doing to preserve and enhance the quality of life in West Somerset.

High on everyone's list were matters related to waste and recycling, so that was chosen as the Forum's theme for the year - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - the 3 Rs of Waste.

"Nationally and locally we produce far too much waste, and too much of it goes to landfill - far more than most other countries in Europe," said Forum 21 co-ordinator Lorna Scott.

"The forum plans to attack in several directions to increase people's awareness of the problem, and do something positive about it.

"We are planning a new campaign later in the year to reduce packaging on food and household purchases. Look out for information on ways in which local people can support this campaign, and a public meeting in the autumn."

Meanwhile, small groups are continuing to investigate some practical projects locally, reusing waste wooden pallets to make compost boxes, which will in turn reduce the amount of green waste going to landfill, reusing plastic tubs to collect rainwater for gardens, and recycling plastic waste from farms and other sources.

The forum, is also liaising with Barbara Robinson, West Somerset District Council's recycling officer, to explore ways in which green waste can be collected and composted locally.

Added Ms Scott: "The district council has made available to us a small sum of money for allocating to local projects which have a sustainable theme.

"This year the forum particularly welcomes enquiries from groups with ideas for projects related to waste reduction and recycling. Write to us for an application form and more details."

The forum can be contacted at Forum 21, 7 The Esplanade, Watchet TA23 OAJ, or by phone 01984 634 242.

On Saturday July 15 it is holding an open morning at the new office from l0.30am to 12 noon. The next steering group meeting is on Wednesday July 12 at 4pm in the Red Cross Centre, Williton. All meetings are open to everyone.