IT'S good to talk say Hatherleigh Carnival Committee who last week scooped a £1,407 grant to provide two-way radio equipment for stewards to help make sure everyone enjoys a safe and fun centenary carnival.

The Awards for All grant was made to ensure organisers and stewards have a good communication system in place when the large crowds flock to the town for the celebrations on Saturday, November 8.

Cindy Squire, from the committee, said: 'We are absolutely delighted with this grant. Last year, the police said everything had gone well, but we did need better communication and we were advised to invest in two way radios.

'With the numbers of people growing every year, safety is very important.'

The majority of the grant went on the two-way radio equipment, but a small amount was left over to support special centennial events taking place around the town throughout the year, including a Punch and Judy show and a workshop for primary school children.

Those going along to the carnival will be able to look the part in special souvenir fleece jackets, polo shirts, sweatshirts and caps which have been produced this year.

Orders for Hatherleigh Carnival clothing can be placed at the town Post Office or with Dawn Stevens at 14 South Street, Hatherleigh.

The carnival committee was one of many groups and charitable organisations in the South West which were successful in the latest round of Awards for All lottery grants.

Acting senior awards officer Ray Moore said: 'The competition has been strong but we are pleased that, to date, we have been able to support 55% of those groups applying to us.

'Those groups who have got a grant in this round of Awards for All are to be sincerely congratulated on their success.'

Mr Moore added: 'Making a successful application means demonstrating that a project will be of real benefit to the local community, that it will extend local access and participation, increase skills, creativity or improve the quality of life for those living in the region.'

To find out more about making an application visit the website at: http://www.awardsforall.org.uk">www.awardsforall.org.uk or telephone 0845 6002040.