THERE is to be a break with tradition this year, as the annual West Devon civic service takes place in a new venue, reflecting the theme of youth chosen by the mayor during his year of office.
The ?alternative? civic service will take place at Tavistock College instead of church. In a further break with tradition, students from Okehampton, Tavistock and Kelly colleges will entertain the mayor?s guests.
Following his appointment as mayor of West Devon, Cllr Richard Phillips said he was determined to introduce as many young people to the democratic processes of councils as possible. He said: ?My aim is to to show young people that councils are there to help everyone and that they have just as important a role to play in their communities as anyone.?
Also attending the event this Saturday will be a variety of youth organisations, who have been given the opportunity to stage exhibitions promoting the work they are involved with. They include Youthwize, Taviskate, Tavistock and District Youth Council, Okehampton Teens to Twenties and Ley of the Land.
Civic dignitaries attending include Margaret Garton DL, representing the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, chairman of Devon County Council, mayors of town and district councils and the Archdeacon of Plymouth.