AN innovative trial of an environmentally-friendly way to kill weeds and moss in the streets of Minehead is being watched by other towns which may want to take it up.

Minehead Town Council has replaced traditional glyphosate-based herbicides with a plant-based product called Foamstream, made from natural plant oils and sugars.

The biodegradable foam has since been used to treat most of Minehead sea front as well as Townsend Road, Alcombe Road, and parts of Alcombe.

A town council spokesperson said: “With the first month’s trial complete, crews will continue by treating Bircham Road before shifting focus back towards the town centre.

“Once that area is finished, efforts will head towards the top of Parkhouse Road via Bampton Street and Poundfield Road.

“Residents and visitors are asked to remain patient as this alternative weed control method allows the town to avoid using potentially harsh chemical herbicides.

“Progress updates will continue as the amenities team methodically works through the town's streets in the coming months.”

The spokesperson said the trial had received interest from other towns ‘seeking sustainable vegetation management solutions’.

They said the Minehead trial would gather valuable data on the effectiveness and efficiency of the Foamstream treatment.

The UK is phasing out glyphosates by December of next year because of concern about their impact on the environment and genetic material and nervous systems in animals and humans.

Anybody with comments or concerns about the trial can email [email protected] or call 01643 707213 or use a feedback form here.