AN area of beauty has been targeted for a five-year management plan to help protect it for the future.

The project has been launched by the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership, near Honiton.

It has been produced on behalf of six partner local authorities, including East and Mid Devon district councils.

Included in objectives is the protection of the flora and fauna of the Blackdowns, as well as the sustainable economy of the area.

Partnership chairman Paul Diviani said: "The involvement of a wide range of organisations will be essential in achieving the plan's aims over the next five years."

The plan can be seen on the AONB website www.blackdown-hills. net.