MORE than 350 people attended the recent Bere Alston Celebration Day. Held at Bere Alston School, the multi-agency event involved the parish council, Police, West Devon Borough Council, WestDen, Youth to Youth, Devon Fire and Rescue, Getting There Project, Citizens Advice Bureau, and West Devon Warm Up Project. Adding more interest was Tavistock Let?s Get Crafty, which kept children amused making cards, and Pete Church brought along a skittle alley which appealed to everyone. Other stalls were provided by Then but Now baby gifts, Georgina Pet Supplies and Sheila?s Clothing. Also taking part were Bere Alston Trekkers, West Devon Neighbourhood Watch and West Devon Homes. As well as being able to try the arts and crafts, children could dress-up in police uniforms and have an instant photo taken. Parish council chairman Cllr Michael Endean was presented with a cheque for £800 from the Tenants? and Residents? Association towards the provision of a cycle/BMX track, construction of which is due to start soon. There was also a raffle which raised £155.20, to be split between the BMX dirt track and the village youth club. There were free goody bags for each household and all children received a cream egg. Everyone was also entered in a second, free draw. WPC Angie Frost, crime prevention officer, who organised the event, thanked the residents for making the day a success: ?Over 350 people attended and many phone calls before the event were received from residents who were working but would have attended if possible.? Residents were sent a form asking them to list likes and dislikes regarding Bere Alston. Comments covered both crime and issues regarding agencies across the board. Issues have included overgrown paths, the use of mini motor bikes, a request for a café, highway matters and the effectiveness of the police. A further letter wil be sent to residents once all the forms have been read, informing them of the issues to be looked at. WPC Frost said a downside to the event was the report that the free personal attack alarms issued to female adults only on the day had got into the hands of young people, who were misusing them. ?I would ask all parents ot check that these alarms are in the hands of adults only or young girls who can be trusted to use them correctly. ?These alarms have a serious purpose and are there to help protect people. They are not a toy,? she said.
