FOR the first time in living memory the parish boundaries of North Tawton will be walked on the weekend of August 19 and 20.

The beating of the bounds is being held as a special millennium event but may well be repeated if townspeople request it.

The 20-mile route will be split over the two days with the northern boundary on Saturday and the southern boundary on Sunday. Walkers are being asked to bring a packed lunch and drinks.

Secretary of North Tawton Millennium committee Gill Hoggins said the event was only possible thanks to the support of local landowners.

'When we were coming up with ideas for the millennium somebody suggested beating of the bounds because they could not remember it being done before,' she said. 'We thought it was a good idea because it involves everybody.

'With support from landowners and help from people who do a lot of walking we managed to get it going.'

The beating of the bounds will entail a guided walk with features of interest pointed out en route.