THE need for Cornish bilingual signs has been questioned by a Helston town councillor.

Councillor Niall Devenish addressed the matter, following an announcement that town and parish councils have been given responsibility for naming new streets and are encouraged to choose Cornish names.

Mr Devenish said: "I don't wish to be too controversial, but I don't feel the need for Cornish bilingual signs is there. I had several comments from visitors that some of the existing street names are difficult enough and I think it would add to the confusion."

He added that whilst he was all in favour of the Cornish language he didn't think it was enough of a "living language" at the current time to merit bilingual signs.

"If, in several years time, the situation is different and Cornish is widely spoken, then have a debate," he said.

However, councillor George Dyer said: "I think that having bilingual signs will raise the profile of the Cornish language and encourage people to learn it."

Although Kerrier district council will retain legal responsibility for street naming, town and parish councils have been given the job of actually thinking of a name.

Cornish should now be used where possible, although English names will still be accepted and the Cornish version added in a smaller type at the base of the sign.