A BID for financial assistance to help with the organisation of this year's Tavistock Food and Drink Festival came under the spotlight during a meeting in the town last week, writes Jane Honey.
The festival, which is being held at Morwellham Quay this year, takes place on September 12 and 13.
Members of Tavistock Town Council's finance committee were told the festival organisers had requested a grant of £1,000, which could be used towards providing a shuttle bus to transport visitors to the event between the quay and Tavistock.
Town mayor Cllr Robin Pike reminded members that the council's policy was only to give grants to events or organisations operating within the parish.
Cllr David Whitcomb said: 'This organisation started some time ago and has got brilliant publicity for Tavistock.
'With something as successful as this, I do think the council should support it in some way. It's been such a good ambassador we should certainly consider it.'
Cllr Philip Sanders said he had 'grave concerns' that the festival would be financially viable, having 'decamped' from the town to Morwellham.
While he appreciated Cllr Whitcomb's views, he said the committee should pay heed to Cllr Pike's warning regarding the council's policy regarding grants.
Cllr Anne Johnson proposed the council reject the request for £1,000, and offer £700 towards the bus service for the festival.
Her motion was seconded by Cllr Mandy Govier, who said having read the festival's accounts, she doubted if the event ever made any profit.
Cllr Govier said: 'It's obviously going to be a difficult year for them this year. They have decreased the entry prices, which is good, because it has been quite cost prohibitive before, specially if you were taking a family.
'Tavistock is well known for its food festival and we should support them.'
The committee agreed the proposal, which was due to be ratified by the full council at its meeting on Tuesday night.