aTHE economy in West Devon is booming, according to a new report by the county council.
Output in the region has experienced an ?excellent? rate of growth from 1991 to 2001, increasing by 7.1% each year ? faster then the national average.
Growth has been strongest in manufacturing, distribution, business activities, health and social work, according to the report by the economic research unit at Devon County Council.
Manufacturing, including food, drink and tobacco, makes up 77% of the total growth and growth rates were almost twice the national average.
The food manufacturing sector, mainly milk and milk products, which includes national brands Ambrosia and Heinz, has seen a significant increase.
Economic success has also been attributed to tourism. Latest figures, from a separate report, show a 17% increase in the number of tourist nights and that the region is recovering from 2001?s foot and mouth crisis.
Agriculture saw a decline in output, 8.7% per annum, particularly in the second half of the decade.
Employees in the region were also included in the report. Compared with national levels, the borough has more female employees, part-time employees and self employed people. The downside of this is low income levels and average earnings are significantly below the national average.
The report states: ?In many respect West Devon has a well balanced economy and has enjoyed an excellent rate of growth in output between 1991 and 2001 despite being held back by the difficult conditions that faced agriculture between 1995 and 2000.?