South Somerset District Council (SSDC) has announced that it is exploring whether local businesses could be given more support to help develop an 'equine tourism destination'.

The local authority aims to gather feedback from local people, including the owners and employees of equestrian-related businesses in the Wincanton, Castle Cary and Bruton areas. SSDC's consultation will also seek comments on whether it should look at promoting the region as an equine tourism destination in a bid to increase the number of visitors and boost the local economy.

Mike Allen, the council's regeneration officer, said: "We know that all things equine play a large role in the local economy, but we want to find out exactly how significant the industry is. "We want those who are involved with horses to help us establish what we have in terms of equine-related business, employment and recreation on our doorsteps."