Crediton residents and organisations are being asked to support a major environmental initiative that will lead to a day of action in the town. Their views will then be taken to a key international conference in Denmark ... by bicycle.

Crediton Climate Action chairman Gerald Conyngham and his wife Laura plan to cycle to Copenhagen with the messages from the town calling for strong action by politicians to respond to the huge threat from climate change.

The couple will be handed messages from local groups by Crediton Mayor Frank Letch at the end of a colourful event of music, entertainment and displays in the Town Square on Saturday, October 24.

The Crediton initiative, called "Crediton Counts," is just part of a worldwide campaign calling on politicians to work harder to reduce carbon emissions all over the planet. The campaign is based on the number 350, as organisers want politicians to agree that carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere must be cut to 350 parts per million. At present climate scientists say they are dangerously high, at nearly 390 parts per million.

CCA spokesperson Linda Lever said: "The most recent science tells us that unless we can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere to 350 parts per million, we will cause huge and irreversible damage to the earth. This means it's essential that governments reach a strong and binding agreement controlling carbon dioxide emissions at the climate talks in Copenhagen in December. It could be our last chance.

"The aim is to show the world's leaders that millions of people all over the world care about this issue and will support their Governments in whatever actions are necessary to control CO2, before it is too late. Crediton Climate Action is joining this worldwide effort."

CCA is writing to numerous groups in the town asking them to organise an event or activity involving the number 350.

Another CCA member, Paula Mossman, said: "A church group might decide to ring the church bells 350 times, a swimming group might decide to swim 350 lengths of a pool, a school class might get involved in art project based on the number 350. The possibilities are endless and can be great fun!

"Our effort will end at the Town Square from 10am to midday on October 24. We will chalk 350 footprints around the edge of the Square and display the contributions.

"Gerald and Laura Conyngham will cycle 140 miles during their journey to Copenhagen with the Crediton messages.

"Please become part of this important event. It is a chance for each of us to join with people all over the world to make a real difference. But time is short to make this a success."

To find out how you can take part, call Linda Lever on 01363 777624, Gerald Conyngham on 07795 151552 or Paula Mossman on 01363 866106 or 07050 354989.

You can also find out more about the campaign at http://www.350.org">www.350.org. To find out more about CCA visit http://www.creditonclimateaction.org.uk">www.creditonclimateaction.org.uk .