DOG fouling, litter, the gravestone of Sophia Simmons and car parking were among the wide range of topics discussed at the 'busiest town assembly in a long time'.

This year's annual assembly saw one of the highest turnouts ever, with around 25 people attending.

Each year the council holds the assembly at the Charter Hall, offering the public the chance to ask questions of the council and share their views on how the town is being run.

The evening was a relaxed, informal affair, with members of each of the council's four committees giving a talk, providing insight into the workings of the council. Vice-chairman of the policy and resources committee Cllr Terry Cummings used the meeting as an opportunity to promote the council's grant aid scheme.

At the beginning of each financial year, the council sets aside a pot of money to help organisations and charities directly benefiting Okehampton residents. Each organisation can apply for a maximum of £500, and the council reviews applications on a case by case basis.

Cllr Cummings said: 'The grant aid and the way the scheme works means as a council, there are some great things we can do on the town's behalf, and benefit local organisations and groups.

'I implore everyone to go out there, talk about it, and spread the word. We want more organisations to apply for the funding, and we will help where we can.'

Town mayor Cllr the Rev Mike Davies was glad to see such a large turnout: 'This is the busiest town assembly in a long time, and it is good to see so many people interested in the working of the council and taking an interest in Okehampton.'