THE Ruby Country Initiative has been saved just days before it ran out of funding, by a new community-owned company.
The project, which works to promote green tourism, has been taken on by Holsworthy MCTI (Market and Coastal Towns Initiative) and HAP (Hatherleigh Area Project).
Both groups include representation from the 45 parishes which make up the Ruby Country area.
Chair of the Ruby Country Steering Group John Allen, said: 'The project remains an innovative regeneration project that looks at the environment, the economy and the community — true triple bottom line accounting.
'However, as a community-owned asset it can only grow and become stronger, so this is indeed a very bright dawn for Ruby.'
The new group, which is non profitable company, will take over the assets and running of the project.
One of the organisers Richard Reid said: 'From small beginnings Ruby Country has gone from strength to strength, and this is a very symbolic moment as the community assumes ownership and control.
'There are many challenges to face, but we should be immensely proud of what has been and what will be achieved with the Ruby Country Initiative.'
Bids are being considered to held with funding by the North Devon and Greater Dartmoor LAGs, with potential funding support being offered by Torridge, West Devon and Devon County Council.
Councillors and MP for West Devon and Torridge, Geoffrey Cox, are also working to achieve a positive outcome for finance to be secured.
• This year's Ruby Run is also nearing, with runners across the region being urged to start training in preparation for its seventh year.
The run has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity since it was created in 2003 and helps to raise the profile of the Ruby Country Initiative.
This year's race is from Hatherleigh to Holsworthy and takes place on Sunday June 14 at 10.30am.
To register for the race email [email protected]">[email protected] or phone race secretary Carole Smith on 01837 810476.