THE inhabitants of the town and hamlets of Okehampton are invited to the 2015 Okehampton Beating of the Bounds, which is being planned for August.

The ancient tradition invites members of the community to walk the boundaries of the parish together. Now seen as a way of strengthening community spirit, the ancient ritual was originally held to pass on knowledge of the parish boundary through generations, maintain the boundary lines and ensure no encroachment from neighbours.

The custom is carried out every five years. Groups set off from Meldon Village Hall to 'beat' 13 marker stones across eleven miles of moorland during the day.

At the 2010 event, hundreds of people took part, including some on horseback. Official guides lead the walk, accommodating their pace to the convenience of the walkers.

Derek Webber has been key to the organisation of the event since 2000. He said: 'The custom has gone on for years and years, it is an ancient custom and one we like to keep going. It is popular — I have already had people asking me when the next beating of the bounds is going to happen.

'We will be looking for volunteers to help run the event and act as guides. We will be holding a meeting shortly at Meldon Village Hall inviting people to come along and get involved.

'Since I got involved the event has always been very well supported, with around 400 to 500 people getting involved last time. We are hoping to get similar numbers this time around.

'Everyone from the community is welcome and we really hope that people do turn out to take part.'

This year's beating of the bounds is due to take place on Wednesday, August 19.

As with the 2010 event, free transport from Okehampton to Meldon is being planned and a picnic lunch is being considered though no details have yet been confirmed.

Organisers are looking for volunteers to help co-ordinate and run the event. Any help in any capacity will be welcomed, to fill a number of roles, including as guides on the day.

A meeting for anyone interested in helping in any way is to be held on Thursday, March 5 at Meldon Village Hall from 7.30pm. All are welcome.