A campaign is underway to secure Tavistock?s place as the best market town in England. It is over a year since Tavistock topped a list of 120 of England?s best market towns published in the Daily Telegraph ? now residents are being called on to present the town?s case, this time to a panel of celebrity judges. The move comes after Country Life magazine launched an appeal for nominations from the public to help their judges choose a town worthy of the title. Judges confirmed so far are The Good Life?s Penelope Keith, Countryfile presenter Ben Fogle and celebrity and businessman Noel Edmonds. Tavistock resident Graham Kirkpatrick, who is busy rallying support within the town, told the Times: ?Our title as the best market town is being challenged ? and we need to do something about it.? Mayor Jenny Metcalf appealed to residents saying: ?We must not rest on our laurels of being the best market town in England ? the more publicity we get the better?. ?We have such a wonderful town here, beautiful in appearance, rich in opportunity and at its centre a thriving marketplace.? Cllr Metcalf said if the town won the competition. the benefits for local businesses would be great given the large number of visitors who would be attracted here. The pannier market has already presented their case to the magazine. Deputy market reeve Mike Souttar said: ?One of the most important aspects of a market town is the market and we are fortunate enough to have such a great one of which we can all be proud. ?We?ve just been named the best farmers? market in Devon and we have the best pannier market for miles around. The best most other market towns can boast is a supermarket.? Among the evidence presented by Mr Souttar was a letter from the BBC praising the town?s hospitality after a recent visit from the Antique?s Roadshow. The judges will assess each town on community spirit, charm, architecture, accessibility and transport facilities; amenities; open areas and playing fields; activities for youngsters and range of traditional shops and supermarkets. Mr Kirkpatrick and his fellow campaigners are encouraging Tavistock residents to log on to the Country Life website where they can place their nominations for ?Best Market Town in England?. He said: ?We need people to take action. ?It is down to individuals to log on and let Country Life know we are here and want to be counted.? Nominations can be made by visiting http://www.countrylife.co.uk">www.countrylife.co.uk or by writing to the publication. Deadline is July 7.
