MONTHLY charity markets outside the historic St James Chapel could bring a buzz to the heart of Okehampton.

Trustees of St James Chapel are hoping the venture could provide a valuable income for charities in the Okehampton area as well as raising money to maintain the building.

The trustees hope to hold the first street market next month and say registered charities will be able to rent space for a stall and keep money raised for their own funds.

Chair of the trustees, the Rev Stephen Cook, team rector for Okehampton, said: ?This is part of our plan to use St James more and more.

?There are services nearly every day now and a family service for people with young children every month.

?This new idea will raise a little money for maintaining the building, but most importantly will be a source of income for other worthy causes.?

Mr Cook added: ?It will also be an attractive occasional feature in the middle of the town and may encourage those just driving through to stop and take a look around.?

The first charity market is planned for Saturday, August 16.

Mayor of Okehampton Christine Marsh said she hoped charities in the area would come forward to make the first market a success.

?We would like to encourage markets back into the town like we had years and years ago. Okehampton used to be a very busy town for markets.

?This is part of our review to encourage all sorts of open air and indoor markets and with that large pavement area by St James, it is ideal to hold an outdoor market.?

Cllr Marsh said she was hopeful if the first market would be a success, it could become a monthly feature creating interest in Okehampton.

Last month, Okehampton Town Council?s property committee backed the trustees? plans to hold a charity market on the pavement adjoining the chapel. Councillors resolved to give permission for such a market subject to a small licence fee.

Games of chance and commercial ventures will not be allowed by the trustees. Registered charities are being invited by the church to get involved and help make the first charity market a great success.

Anyone interested in finding out more, or who wants to apply for an application form and a list of conditions, is asked to contact organiser John Bower, by telephone 01837 659590, or St James trustee Andrew Bourne on 01837 53784.