AN IMPLICATION by protesters that the whole of Highampton is against C-FAR's proposed move to the village is wrong, said the charity this week.
The Centre for Adolescent Rehabilitation, which is hoping to purchase Burdon Grange Nursing Home to use as a residential education and training establishment, gained support for its plans at a presentation in the village last week.
The charity wants to relocate from its base at Okehampton Camp to more suitable accommodation where it can continue running 11-week intensive residential courses for young offenders.
But the plan has provoked controversy in the village and protesters claim it will bring a cultural revolution to the area.
Chairman of C-FAR Ian Courtney and chief executive Trevor Philpott spoke of the work of the charity at the parish hall last Tuesday which included a short video and a question and answer session.
It was explained that C-FAR was an educational and training centre that offered selected young men, who wished to do do, the chance to change their lives.
Spokesman for C-FAR Richard White said many people took the opportunity to stay behind after the meeting to discuss the issues.
'A number of residents have subsequently expressed support for the proposed move,' he said. 'The implication that 100 per cent of the residents of Highampton do not support our plans is wrong. Unfortunately the group that have applauded our work and wished us well have chosen to remain silent.'
As announced at previous meetings, C-FAR has extended an invitation to residents to visit the centre at Okehampton. Those wishing to do so are requested to telephone on (01837) 659556 in order that someone is available to show them around.
West Devon Borough Council is currently investigating whether the application by C-FAR will have to get planning permission because the charity says it does not need change of use.
Mr White wished to stress that, in accordance with West Devon Borough Council, C-FAR had openly carried out the legal requirements in relation to the proposed purchase of Burdon Grange and the application for a Certificate of Lawfulness.
'There has been no question of deception or underhand action,' he said. 'The charity will continue to maintain its standards of integrity and openness in all its future negotiations and contractual arrangements.'