THE committee and volunteers of the Bere Ferrers Parish Community Project were thanked for all their hard work at the recent annual meeting.

Chairperson Fern Hughes praised their support over the past year and welcomed everyone to the meeting. Treasurer Roger Backaller presented his report for the last time. He is stepping down from this post after 13 years due to increased work commitments.

He was thanked for his commitment to the group by Paul Graeme-Drury who presented a report on the WASPS project.

The parish council has given permission for the wheeled sports area to be sited on the recreation field in Bere Alston.

A wide ranging consultation has taken place this year and further discussion is now needed with the companies involved before a decision can be made on the final design when insurance would be arranged.

Sue Painter presented a written report on the abc project — wrap around childcare for two-and-a-half to 11 year olds — in the Bere Peninsula. A sub-group comprising Sue Painter, Charlotte Hammond, Nick Law and Pru Barnes has been working on the project.

They have obtained funding for a business plan and feasibility study from West Devon Borough Council and the Rural Development Agency. WestDEN contributed their maximum grant of £250 but an application to Awards for All was unsuccessful. Other funding sources are being approached.

In April Bere Valley Playgroup applied for funding to the New Opportunities Fund via the Playlines Consortium and received nearly £48,000 payable over three years. This is for setting up and running lunch, after school and holiday clubs.

Election of officers took place. Bere Valley Playgroup is committed to save for the new building and 10% of their fundraising will be for this purpose.

Meanwhile the temporary use of a classroom has been provided at Bere Alston CP School which means that in theory the scheme can start in January.

Funding for plans, and the build, plus support of the next parish council to build on the proposed site are the next objectives.

Election of officers was as follows: chair, Fern Hughes; vice-chair, Sheila Roffey; secretary, Sue Painter; treasurer, George Nash. Committee: Nick Law, Pru Barnes, Charlote Hammond, Paul Graeme-Drury, Jane Williams, Kim Wild, headmistress, Eaon Wager, Bere Ferrers Parish Council representative, plus the officers.