IN a survey, the results of which were published today, April 1, Crediton was voted The Most Huggable Town in Britain.

The award, from Fillooa PR, a national public relations company, was based on research conducted by company representatives who have been touring towns and cities across the country.

In the Crediton area they visited, A E Lee, outfitters; Four Seasons, Phillips (Print and Stationery) Ltd: Helmores estate agents; Tuckers Country Stores; Mole Avon Town and Country Store; Video Movies and some other shops, offices, banks and restaurants and pubs.

While at these locations, the "undercover" agents, asked unsuspecting individuals questions which they hoped would result in a "hug".

The people of Crediton were judged to have been the most responsive and gave the "undercover" agents hugs with open arms.

A spokesman for Fillooa PR told the Courier: "What lovely people there are in Crediton.

"They were very friendly and genuine and hugs were freely given."

Also highly placed were Ashby De La Zouch (Leicestershire), Wellington (Somerset), Axminster (Devon) and Farnham (Surrey).

The news comes fast on the heels of Crediton being rated the fifth best town in which to live.

The New Economics Foundation (NEF) described Crediton as having "a near-idyllic lifestyle" and "good community spirit", set in glorious countryside, with great shopping, instancing an independent butcher, two bakers, two delicatessens and a family-owned general store, in addition to a monthly Farmers' Market, unlike others who were on the verge of becoming "clone towns".

Alan Quick