There is more kerb appeal than ever in Banwell after the local councils organised and installed new drop kerbs around the village.

With the help of a £3,500 donation from Southern Co-op, it is hoped the new kerbs will make it safer and easier for residents to get around and do their shopping.

It is also hoped they will enable more people to walk to the local store and reduce emissions from vehicles.

Arranged by Banwell Parish Council and installed by North Somerset Council, the four pairs of drop kerbs have been carefully placed around Banwell.

Store Manager Justine Ball at The Co-operative Food in Knightcott Road, said: “We’ve lots of people in the local area who use mobility scooters plus there are mums and dads who will be happy with the new drop kerbs.

“If you are walking with a push chair and a toddler, it was dangerous crossing the road as – not only is it a busy route – there was the added risk of your toddler running into the road as you needed to let go of your little one’s hand in order to push the pram on and off the pavement.

“We are very grateful that Banwell Parish Council helped to get the four sets of drop kerbs installed. They will make it a lot easier for people to get around.”

Paul Harding, Banwell Parish Chairman, said: “Banwell Parish Council is delighted that the new drop kerbs have now been installed near the Co-op, making it safer for parishioners to walk to the store.

“As the drop kerbs have made crossing the road safer, the council hopes more people who live opposite will now be able to travel safely to the Co-op without needing to use a car. This could not only promote spending more time in the fresh air, but also reduce carbon emissions from cars travelling to and from the store.

“A big thank you to Southern Co-op for funding the new drop kerbs, which will no doubt improve inclusivity and accessibility and hopefully promote healthier lifestyles for the parishioners of Banwell.”

The drop kerbs were funded as part of Southern Co-op’s ‘Love Your Neighbourhood’ programme. The programme aims to create greener, safer, healthier or more inclusive neighbourhoods.

To find out more, visit southern.coop/ .