A FREE guide book to help residents and businesses affected by the current economic downturn has been published by West Devon Borough Council.

The booklet, 'Your guide to help in difficult times', includes information about services and the support available for those facing financial difficulties.

Designed as an easy-to-read directory, it provides details of national and local organisations that can help individuals, families and businesses on a range of matters, including debt relief, benefits, job seeking and further training.

The free booklet is just one part of a wider recession action plan developed by the borough, as measures have been introduced over the last few months to help hundreds of businesses.

The council is committed to paying small businesses for goods and services within ten days of receiving their invoice, continuing to offer small business rates relief, and is working with specialist organisations to ensure businesses in the borough are given support and advice.

Cllr Robert Sampson, chairman of the borough's environment and community committee, said: 'We hope this guide will prove to be very useful, signposting people to the different agencies who are there to help them.'

The booklet is available from the council offices at Kilworthy Park in Tavistock, the Customer Services Centre in St James Street, Okehampton and at libraries in both towns.