A CLEAR message was sent to the business community of Okehampton this week. Speaking at the annual general meeting of the Okehampton and District Chamber of Trade, chamber president William Cornish said: 'The Chamber of Trade gives the business community a clear opportunity to contribute and improve our own community. 'There is a lot of talent in Okehampton and district. If one percent of this was devoted to the chamber think what would be achieved and through this effort the whole town and community would benefit.' Chamber chairman, Ian Bailey, reported on the chamber's achievements in 2007. Some of the highlights included the Christmas lights and the hanging baskets. Mr Bailey expressed his thanks to Donald Rooke for his valued contribution to these projects. Coupled with this, the chamber produced and distributed 10,000 town maps and 10,000 'where to stay and where to go' leaflets, designed to bring direct benefits into Okehampton. Mr Bailey said: 'Last year saw a significant, innovative move from the chamber in the creation of our own website. This, I am sure, will prove to be a valuable tool in marketing Okehampton in the coming years. 'With pundits predicting a tough year for business and retail in particular, we have to use every weapon in our armoury to bring business to us. 'We already have 1,000 car stickers ready for distribution and banners to hang in the town to publicise the website.' The chamber believes the website, http://www.okehamptondevon.com">www.okehamptondevon.com, will benefit, not only business in Okehampton but also sports clubs and other organisations. The website was created by businessman Anthony Martin who said: 'The website is the town's own site.' Mr Bailey added that the message came across clearly at the AGM that the chamber is and will remain to be at the heart of the Okehampton community. Anyone who would like further information on the chamber or wishes to join should contact secretary Janet Gee on 01837 54481.
