BUSINESSES and individuals involved in Tavistock's 'late night economy' have recently joined forces to launch a new initiative aimed at creating an enjoyable, trouble-free experience for revellers, and encouraging a safe and responsible attitude towards others at the end of the evening.

Those involved in the new forum, which was set up by West Devon's Community Safety Officer, Louisa Wall, and the South Devon and Dartmoor Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, include licensed premises, taxi/private hire drivers, take-aways, hotels, restaurants and convenience stores.

They are working together to form a network for sharing information, which will enable them to identify problems, have a consistent approach to dealing with them, and have a collective voice when enlisting the help and advice of local agencies such as the police and licensing authority.

The launch of the forum coincides with the introduction of a street pastors scheme in the area, where church volunteers patrol the streets of Tavistock during the late nights and early mornings.

The pastors bring care and understanding to the streets, from helping people to organise their own transport home, to dealing with those who might just have had a little too much to drink.

The forum is hopeful that its new measures will make evenings out in Tavistock a better experience for all.

West Devon Borough Councillor Mandy Govier, chair of the South Devon and Dartmoor Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, said: 'We are looking forward to working together to reduce anti-social behaviour in the town.'

Anyone with a business interest in the late night economy of the town is welcome to join the forum, which intends to meet three or four times a year as well as forming a realistic information-sharing network.

For further details contact Louisa Wall, community safety officer, on 01822 813720 [email protected]">[email protected]