Bere Peninsula residents have been working hard to develop a local parish plan for their peninsula.

The project has actively involved local people from across the parish which organisers say 'is a shining example of a community driven activity and even the the Prime Minister's "Big Society" at work.'

A wide range of proposals is being considered by the residents.

Subject to available funding, the plan could include aspects of youth services, needs of the elderly, support for local businesses, education, public transport and leisure activities.

Environmental and sustainability considerations are high on the priority list.

The initiative to produce a Parish Plan has attracted a large number of local residents with Councillor Mike Benson representing Bere Ferrers Parish Council and Cllr Robin Musgrave representing the district on West Devon Borough Council.

It is recognised that the plan must have the support of the whole community and as part of the consultation process a series of open forum sessions are being held to allow all local residents to input their own ideas.

l Details of these events are as follows: Bere Ferrers Church Hall, on Saturday, March 12 from 11am to 1pm; Bere Alston Primary School on Thursday, March 17 from 3.15pm to 4.15pm and Bere Alston Parish Hall on Saturday, March 19, from 11am to 2pm.