WEST Devon and Torridge has been shortlisted for one of the first EU referendums by campaigners People's Pledge. People's Pledge, which is led by both pro and anti-EU MPs, is planning more than 100 separate votes across the country by 2013.

Its aim is to force a national referendum on the UK's membership in the European Union.

The first local referendum will take place on April 5 in one of 13 shortlisted constituencies of which West Devon and Torridge is one. Ten more will follow in the autumn.

People's Pledge said this would be the largest ground campaign for an EU referendum ever held in Britain and would complement its lobbying campaign of MPs at Westminster. Campaign elements will include: a high visibility local shop front headquarters, door to door canvassing, posters and other external media, leaflet drops, street stalls and public meetings.

Ian McKenzie, People's Pledge spokesman said: 'The last time Britain had a referendum on whether we should stay in the Common Market was in 1975, since when it has changed beyond recognition from an economic to political union. 'A referendum in the next parliament would determine the modern, settled view of the British people.'

The Coalition Government has promised a referendum - backed by law - on the UK's role in the EU only if there is a significant transfer of power from London to Brussels.