A cider-maker in North Somerset has taken steps to reduce its plastic packaging.

Weston Mercury: Join our Cleaner Coastlines campaign.Join our Cleaner Coastlines campaign. (Image: Archant)

Thatchers Cider, in Sandford, has replaced plastic ring carriers for cans of cider with cardboard packs.

MORE: Gulls caught in brambles because of plastic can ring holders.

The Mercury is running its Cleaner Coastlines campaign to achieve plastic-free coastlines status for Weston-super-Mare.

The aim is for businesses to reduce their single-use plastics, while also achieving widespread support from schools and community groups.

Managing director Martin Thatcher said: “This is a major initiative for us and we’re very pleased to say we no longer have any plastic ring carriers on our packs of cider.

“We’re determined to be doing things the right way for the environment, and although we know there’s more to do, we are well on our way down this road of reducing our use of plastic.

“We’ve all seen the harm plastic packaging can do to our coastlines and our wildlife – and by having introduced new cardboard packaging, we’re very pleased to be playing our part in implementing change.

“Campaigns such as Cleaner Coastlines are so important, and we’re very pleased to lend our support in raising awareness of this issue.”