County council hopes visitors will flock to its stand at the Devon County Show

Devon County Council will be inviting people to find out about its environmental initiatives, business support and work to help farmers at the Devon County Show next week.

There will also be information about the Tour of Britain in September and the chance to win two VIP hospitality tickets to the Devon stage of the race.

The show takes place from Friday, July 2 until Sunday, July 4.

Visitors to the council's Covid-safe stand will be able to explore exhibits, enter competitions, get on-the-spot business advice and enjoy a free mini cream tea.

People will be able to learn about the environmental impact of different household items, calculate their own carbon footprint and step into a net-zero carbon Devon, a world where action has been taken on climate change, and people and nature thrive.

There will also be a chance to see the shared low-carbon Co Cars and Co Bikes, which help people travel more sustainably and affordably. The latest addition to the council's electric vehicle fleet will be on display.

The Devon Local Nature Partnership will be back, with a focus on communities, as they highlight ways people can learn more about their local area as well as take action to help improve it and protect local wildlife.

Businesspeople are encouraged to drop by and see the exhibits by the Heart of the South West Growth Hub and Cosmic, who will be on-hand to share their knowledge and provide business support on everything, including finance and grants, training, and digital skills. Throughout the show Cosmic will be showing individuals and businesses how digital technology can enhance their business practice.

Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service will also be promoting the Made in Devon Scheme at the show this year, and offering a year's free membership to those who sign up at the show (subject to eligibility).

Made in Devon will be joined by the Mental Health and Wellbeing in Farming initiative, which is helping rural businesses by highlighting and reducing the stigma around mental health, and publicising the support available. Various guests and speakers will be visiting the stand throughout the show.

This year, the Devon County Council stand will be joined by a community Covid testing van, and staff will be encouraging people to get free rapid lateral flow tests.