Plans to create a Dawlish town trail featuring sculptures and other landmark pieces is starting to take shape.

The Dawlish Community Trust wants visitors to seek out not only the town's well known spots but its hidden gems too.

Such a scheme could have a wide appeal, not only to history buffs but cash-strapped families looking for a cheap day out.

Bob Vickery, trust chairman, said the time was right for something more than the trail published in 2001 by the town council and the Teignmouth and Dawlish Ramblers Association.

'We were spurred on by the relative success of the Brunel Trail which was established a couple of years ago with help from Lottery Funding.

'We were further encouraged by the tourist information centre which said that last year there was an increase in the number of people wanting information on activities which did not involve a trip to an expensive theme park.

'Currently there is little information generally available about the town. that's partly because we have had few high profile individuals such as admirals who go off to victory at Trafalgar.'

Mr Vickery said he hoped that the trail would not only be published in leaflet form but that there would be physical features as well.

'We could have sculptures and objects along the route, possibly stories written into the pavements. As visitors followed the trail a new picture of the town would emerge.

'It would give casual visitors something to do for half an hour or even three hours.'

Mr Vickery said he would like to highlight topics such as how the Lawn was created from a muddy tidal creek, the presence of Regency houses opposite the museum and the role played by Luscombe Castle.

A meeting about the plan, open to invited organisations including the chamber of trade and the history group, is set to take place on February 9.

Mr Vickery hoped a trail could be established this year although elements such as sculptures would take longer.

The trust is also busy helping to push forward a plan for a public arts and performance space on the Lawn, as well as offering skills training to boost employment opportunities.