A NEW initiative has been launched to allow residents including those in West Devon to share their experience of delivering a community project so others can learn from their example.

'Connecting Communities' aims to bring together individuals and groups starting off on a project with those who have completed one so they can pass on their experience and knowledge.

The initiative, set up by West Devon Borough Council, South Hams District Council and the Community Council of Devon, could help with affordable housing schemes, play parks, community shops and a range of other village amenities.

Cllr Jonathan Hawkins, South Hams District Council's executive member with responsibility for housing said: 'We have so many talented and resourceful individuals in our district and this project seeks to make the most of their experience and expertise.

'We are hoping to create a database of people who can become "mentors" able to give tips and advice to others working on similar projects. It can be very useful to talk to someone who has "been there, done that" when you are starting a project, and this is a new way of putting communities in touch.'

The scheme is looking for mentors prepared to share their experiences to help inspire and support another community group. There are many skills and projects that require support, from setting up a community shop, writing a funding application, developing a local housing project to running a successful community building. Connecting Communities are looking for mentors from across the rich spectrum of community focussed activity in Devon.

An introductory evening session for potential mentors is taking place on November 21 at the Watermark centre in Ivybridge. It will allow people to find out more about the scheme, discuss how they might be able to provide support and ask questions. For further details or to reserve a place visit http://www.devonrcc.org.uk/events">http://www.devonrcc.org.uk/events.

There is a small fund to cover reasonable travel costs and expenses of mentors.