MERTON has carried off a major honour in this year's Devon Best Kept Village Competition — much to the delight of its inhabitants.

A special certificate was awarded to the Torridge village for the Best First Entry in a contest which was described as 'a tougher battle than ever this year'.

Chairman of Merton Parish Council David Nancekivell said it was 'wonderful news' but also 'thoroughly deserved.'

The judges had a daunting task selecting winners from the 60 entries for the annual competition organised by the Devon CPRE (Council for the Protection of Rural England) and sponsored by Calor Gas.

Dartington in the South Hams was a winner in the large villages category whilst Clyst Hydon in East Devon won the small villages section. The past winners category was won by Atherington in North Devon.

Mr Nancekivell said there were a lot of good things happening in Merton which had resulted from a strong community spirit.

'A community spirit was built up through the new village hall project and things have just flowed on from there,' he said.

'Winning the best first entry prize is wonderful news and thoroughly deserved because everybody has worked so hard.'

Merton has also been chosen along with Halwill as a finalist in the Devon Village of the Year Competition.