ITS name may have become synonymous with the latest crisis in farming but there is a lot more to the quaint Devon market town of Hatherleigh than a cattle market and an abattoir.

With a strong community which rises to the challenge in times of adversity Hatherleigh has loads of ideas to attract the tourist and bring a welcome boost to the economy.

The town, which grabbed national media attention when it instigated a ban on French produce after our European neighbours refused to lift the ban on British beef in 1999, is in 'innovation' mode to win back visitors.

'Because of the media attention on us during the foot and mouth crisis everyone thinks, "Poor little Hatherleigh" . We have become the blighted town of the South West,' said deputy chairman of Hatherleigh Business Association Tim Brandon-King.

'We have a very strong community which is looking on the positive side in these times of adversity. We want people to know although there are difficulties in the countryside Hatherleigh is open for business and we would love to see them here.'

Bustling street markets, inviting friends to stay for Easter and the re-opening of the weekly town auctions are all set to get the town buzzing again.

Mr Brandon-King said Hatherleigh was helping itself through the crisis and far from the 'doom and gloom' image portrayed in the national media it was ready with a warm welcome to give visitors.

This charming mid-Devon market town is one of the smallest of its kind in Britain. Its colour-washed and thatched cottages nestle in the glorious and gently folding hills of the Devon countryside and offer the tourist a glimpse of a bygone era.

Given its town charter in 981 and growing in stature during the 17th century, the town now boasts a number of interesting points of contact which include the George Hotel, a 16th century coaching inn, the Church of St John the Baptist, Norman in origin and returned to its former glory in 1991 after suffering huge storm damage, a pottery with a working potter, a honey farm, an art gallery and antique shops.

The Tuesday market sells everything from crafts to confectionery, locally-grown veg to superb cheeses, and local shops offer designer clothing to a cappuccino.

But above all Hatherleigh offers the tourist a relaxed and informal place to relax and enjoy.

For more information about what to do and where to stay in Hatherleigh contact Tim Brandon-King on 01837 811005 or 07771 1754820.