Bay name causes headache

The Taw-Torridge Estuary has Biosphere Status

The naming of Devon's prestigious new international nature reserve is causing a diplomatic dilemma.

North Devon's Taw-Torridge Estuary has been awarded Biosphere Status by the United Nations (UN), which has suggested calling it Bideford Bay.

However, the area is also known locally as Barnstaple Bay.

Public help is now being sought to resolve the thorny issue of what the official name should be.

The public is being asked to suggest names and the winning suggestion will be carried on an extensive advertising campaign.

Biosphere Status recognises the area as being globally important for scenery and wildlife.