CENTRAL Devon MP Mel Stride has praised West Devon Borough Council, saying it does a good job in difficult times by improving efficiencies and finding savings.

Mr Stride has backed various measures put in place by the local authority after a meeting with leader of the council Cllr Philip Sanders, the chief executive Richard Sheard and head of finance Lisa Buckle.

Sharing services with South Hams District Council has saved residents £2.1-million since 2007 and is saving the borough council £600,000 a year ongoing.

Mr Stride said: 'I am very impressed with how West Devon Borough Council has risen to the challenges that inevitably result from reduced Government funding. The savings made through sharing many of its officers and services with South Hams is ensuring that frontline services are protected as much as possible.

'I was also encouraged that the council is placing a firm emphasis on business support and regeneration in Okehampton.'