PARISHIONERS from a West Devon village have pulled together to form a community group to create an action plan based on the needs and aspirations of its residents.

The Dolton Vision Group will ensure the future sustainability and vibrancy of the parish and improve its facilities.

The group was officially set up last October, consisting of residents, local businesses and organisations.

The six key areas under which the group will base its work are, quality of life, housing, local economy, the environment, stronger and safer communities and traffic and transport.

Dolton Parish councillor and member of the Dolton Vision Group, Clive Burnage, said: 'Affordable housing in rural areas is nationally recognised as being a priority and Dolton is no different on that front.

'The Vision Group recognises that this is not the only challenge the community faces and is actively encouraging the use of wider-thinking when considering solutions.'

Mr Burnage said the needs of the primary school, transport issues, employment, together with the parish's access and service infrastructure — are just some of the issues that need to be considered to ensure the virtuous circle remains complete.

He added: 'Finding a balance between maintaining the character of the village, while ensuring genuine sustainability, opportunity and solution is absolutely key.

'There is a significant move to encourage a more ground-up approach to governance, together with an increasing recognition of the fact that it is the people who live and work in a given area, who are best placed to know what is needed.'

The group is holding an open day to gather thoughts and views of parishioners, and will also offer ideas of what can be achieved for youngsters.

Representatives from local organisations will be at the event, as well as a model of the village, activities for youngsters, free refreshments and plenty more to encourage input.

Head of community planning at Torridge District Council, Maria Bailey, Devon County councillor Andy Boyd and The Devon Reinvestment Service, have all offered their support and encouragement to the work of the Dolton Vision Group.

Mr Burnage added: 'Recognising the shortcomings is an important step.

'Creating practical, achievable and exciting plans to address the issues is the next stage.

'Community projects have made an incredible difference to many areas and the group hope to be able to achieve the same for Dolton.'

The open day will be held on Saturday, April 24 in Dolton Village Hall.