FIREWORKS and food helped to celebrate the re-launch of a scheme designed to promote some of Devon?s most beautiful countryside. Businesses in Ruby Country look set to enjoy a boost with the official re-launch of the Ruby Country Initiative. The initiative is designed to bring extra business to the 45 parishes around the market towns of Hatherleigh and Holsworthy by promoting the area. The project is named after the indigenous red cattle of the area and has recently received new funding, with which they hope to develop a ?unique? identity to attract more visitors and encourage better promotion of local produce. Devon County Council?s executive member for strategic planning and regional affairs, Cllr Humphrey Temperley, said: ?New objectives include linking the existing Ruby trails and cycle routes to include more local producers, pubs and places to stay. ?Helping to develop active holidays including workshops, demonstrations and farm walks.? ?A comprehensive directory of local businesses will be available and the current website will be developed to match tourist searches with local offers.? The official re-launch of the project took place at Lizzie?s Larder at Blackberry Farm in Milton Damerel on Friday . Lizzie Kirby, Lizzie?s proprietor, produces her own on-farm produce and sells a variety of other Ruby Country branded produce from other suppliers. Lizzie said: ?Ruby Country has given me the confidence to expand my business into the new farm shop. ?It is important for me to be part of this branded area of Devon and to take advantage of growth within the development plans of the Ruby Country project.? The project is sponsored by Devon County Council, Devon Renaissance, Devon Wildlife Trust, West Devon Borough Council, Torridge District Council and the Forestry Commission. Ruby Country project chairman, Cllr Des Shadrick, said: ?We are delighted the project has been successful in achieving this investment. ?Ruby Country is helping to support and empower a community that is still recovering from the impact of Foot and Mouth. ?This funding will support a 10 year plan which will enable sustainable development and growth for the area in a way that makes the most of its rich heritage.? The Ruby County Initiative can be contacted for further information at the Ruby Country Project Office, Cookworthy Forest Centre, Beaworthy, Devon, EX21 5UX or on 01409 221896.
