OVER 50 businesses across Dorset have signed up to a scheme offering free refills of reusable water bottles.

South Coast Roast on Richmond Hill in Bournemouth, the Urban Wildlife Centre in Poole, Edwards Estate Agency in Ringwood, and Sea Breeze Cafe in Swanage are just a few of the firms supporting the #RefillDorset initiative by Litter Free Coast and Sea Project.

Companies display a blue 'refill here' sticker in their window to show people that they are part of the campaign, which is backed by Dorset Wildlife Trust.

It aims to encourage people to carry reusable bottles to reduce the number of single use plastic bottles which litter streets, green spaces and beaches.

Natalie Poulter, project co-ordinator, said: "Participating businesses have told us it makes perfect sense to offer free tap water to their customers, and many are keen to promote something they’re doing already.

"The refills are totally free with no pressure to buy anything else, but we find often people buy a coffee or cake at the same time.

"Refill not only saves customers money but, for a café, it can also cut down rubbish and recycling bills."

To download the app which displays participating businesses, go to Litterfreecoastandsea.co.uk/refill-dorset