WEST Somerset MP Rachel Gilmour is backing calls to conserve part of Minehead’s iconic North Hill as a ‘Covid Memorial Glade’.

Land for the North Hill Community Woodland Project has been under threat of development but Somerset Council has put off a decision on a compulsory purchase order for two years.

Mrs Gilmour visited the site with North Hill Action Group chairman Chris Miller and Minehead Conservation Society chairman Sally Bainbridge.

She said: “This is a wonderful project, which deserves support from Minehead Town Council and the local Somerset councillors.

“It will enhance and preserve Minehead’s woodland backdrop for public benefit.

“The plan to create a memorial glade is fitting, since there is currently no place of reflection and tranquillity for residents to remember loved ones lost to the epidemic.”

Mrs Gilmour wants Somerset Council to act to remove the threat of development so ‘we can all enjoy this glorious part of the town’.