MERTON is among the villages vying for the title of Devon Village of the Year — and expectations are high in the county after the success of Devon villages in last year's national competition.

Merton is one of 14 villages across Devon which entered the competition organised by the Council for the Protection of Rural England and the Community Council of Devon, and sponsored by Calor Gas.

Judging for the competition will take place during the summer with the results announced at the end of August or early September.

The villages will be keen to emulate the achievement of Tedburn St Mary, last year's national title winner.