LIFTON's Community Centre project received a boost last week when the Big Lottery Fund accepted a first stage funding bid and invited the committee to submit a more detailed second bid by April this year.

In addition West Devon Borough Council have pledged a grant of £20,000 to the project, which will help the village become more of a service centre to the population of Lifton and its surrounds.

Tony Phillips, former Lifton postmaster and community centre chair, said: 'This is a huge step in the right direction for the village, which began fundraising for this much needed facility 20 years ago.'

The centre has been identified as a priority in numerous parish and community consul-tations over the years with facilities for all generations being incorporated into the design, and residents' concerns about pricing and parking being taken into account.

Planning permission has been granted and the project is starting to gain momentum.

The committee will now work on the detailed business plan for the centre to ensure it is both financially and environmentally sustainable into the future.

More members and supporters would be welcome to join the community centre committee, with roles such as event organising, business planning, book keeping, marketing and fundraising available.

To get involved contact Tony at [email protected]">[email protected]