WATER quality in North Devon will be discussed at a special meeting of North Devon Council later this month.

Following ongoing public concerns, North Devon Council's policy development committee has invited local stakeholders to a public meeting to discuss the issues around sewage and the water quality of the district's rivers and beaches.

The public meeting, which takes place on Thursday, February 29 will be attended by representatives from The National Trust, National Farmers’ Union, South West Water, Environment Agency, North Devon Biosphere, North Devon Surf Reserve, Westcountry Rivers Trust, North Devon Angling News and Surfers Against Sewage.

Chair of North Devon Council's Policy Development Committee, Councillor Liz Spear, says: "We have heard from residents their concerns around water quality and sewage affecting our incredible beaches and waterways.

"We have therefore invited a range of colleagues from relevant groups and agencies to this special public meeting where we hope to be able to gain an understanding of the issues and look for solutions. We are looking forward to a positive and constructive discussion."

The council's policy development committee meeting takes place in the South West Institute Development Building at Petroc on Thursday, February 29 at 6.30pm.