IT'S FREE, it's fun and it's your future — the regeneration of Okehampton and its surrounding area starts on Saturday with a community day in Simmons Park to which everyone is urged to attend.
The day is being seen as the first step to accessing many millions of pounds for the area but the vision for Okehampton's future will be that of the people's not local authorities and agencies.
More than 100 organisation and groups covering everything from sports to learning opportunities, arts to village hall projects, will be exhibiting in a marquee which will be alive with entertainment and activities throughout the day from 10am to 4pm.
Organised by the steering group of the Okehampton Market Towns Initiative, which has been appointed to put together a community plan of regeneration projects for the area, the event is a way of informing every local resident about what the area has to offer and what it could offer in the future.
Billed as 'Tradition with Vision' it is believed to be the most dynamic and interactive community event in the South West.
Steering group member Judy Pride said no-one could afford to miss out on this day.
'It is a chance for everyone to have their say on the environmental, economic and cultural needs of the area,' she said.
'It is just the start to putting together one community plan for the area rather than things happening piecemeal.'
Judy said there were many people out there who had expertise in various fields whom the steering group would be looking to snap up.
'We want to draw on all the skills we have in the area — there is so much untapped expertise and this day is very much about getting everyone together and involved in the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative.'
Okehampton is one of seven Devon market towns which has been identified by the South West Regional Development Agency to receive a 'virtual £1-million' of Government funding.
The agency will be at the community day to inform people about the initiative and how to put their projects forward for funding.
Entertainment will include the Hard Place Band and Okehampton College Big Band, stilt walkers and a children's entertainer.
'This is an opportunity for everyone to become a part of Okehampton's vision for the future — people often complain when their views are ignored but this time they won't be,' added Judy.
'All we ask is that they turn up and I think they will be pleasantly surprised.'
Anyone who needs transport to Okehampton on Saturday is being asked to call 01837 55000 or for further information about the day telephone 01837 53276 or 55775.
One of the area's top chefs will be cooking up a feast of delights at Okehampton Farmers' Market in the Charter Hall to link with the community day.