BOVEY Climate Action is in talks with Western Power to see if the town's electrical use can be monitored and made publicly available.

Group member Leighton King said that the project is in its early stages but that if such information was readily available to residents it would be a first step in reducing energy use.

'It would make a big psychological impact if you can see where you are, so we can actually set some targets as a town.' The group, which was formed only months ago, is pursuing a handful of innovative projects aimed at heightening awareness of global warming and helping people locally reduce their carbon emissions.

Its latest initiative is a newsletter. The first issue is being distributed in shops, public buildings and to residents. The group's fortnightly meetings number between a dozen and 20. The stylish four-page publication invites householders to join Waste Watchers and to have their homes measured for carbon emissions.

There will be six-monthly 'Way-Ins' to see how participants are keeping up with the targets. The newsletter emphasises the impact individual contributions can make, also the power people can wield by acting together.

Marks & Spencer's announcement that it intends to become carbon neutral is cited an example of consumer power. On the political front, the newsletter asks: Why aren't there more wind farms in Devon? And why aren't more new houses equipped with water and power saving devices?

Residents will have the opportunity to probe local politicians on their green credentials at a public meeting to be held on April 24 at Bovey Church Rooms in the run-up to the local elections on May 3.

In another sign that Bovey Tracey is taking the issue to its heart, it was standing room only at a recent showing of Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth at the town hall. The group has become an unincorporated association, which will enable it to raise funds and apply for grants. It is already casting its eyes around for green projects it can set up in the town.

Mr King said that there have been stirrings of interest from Buckfastleigh, Ashburton, Moretonhampstead, Chagford and Yelverton.

'We've been contacted by a number of towns who want to repeat our model. 'It's all about sharing information and helping each other out. I really feel we're beginning to build some momentum,' he said.