THE fourth annual Hatherleigh tar barrels 'world tour' takes place on August 27 in preparation for the Hatherleigh Carnival on November 12.

The ten-mile pull is being held to raise money for the tar barrel funds for the carnival. Each barrel is costing around £40 this year, and so to ensure a spectacular display the tar barrel committee is hoping to raise as much money as possible.

The pull starts at the Crossways Inn at Folly Gate at 3pm, and coincides with the pub's beer festival weekend.

Landlord and landlady John and Wendy Williams have kindly agreed to have collection tins on hand throughout the weekend to help boost the committee's coffers.

The half-time break will be at the Green Dragon in Northlew, with landlord John Palmer opening at 5pm for the barrel pullers. After a pint and maybe a sandwich, the barrel pullers are returning to the Square in Hatherleigh with an impressive torchlight return at 8.30pm.

The committee is also receptive to meeting those keen to take part in the tar barrel pull at the carnival in November. New members from the area are always welcome, but they must be over 16 on Hatherleigh Carnival day.

The next tar barrel meeting is on Wednesday September 21 at Hatherleigh Cricket Club at 8.30pm. Any new members who wish to pull barrels at this year's carnival must attend this meeting.