A LACK of new blood has been blamed for the closure of a society dedicated to the protection and enhancement of Tavistock.
The Tavistock Civic Society was formed almost 30 years ago as an independent voice on the affairs of the town. It was formally closed at a special meeting last Thursday.
Acting chairman John Reynolds said although there were still 50 members, none of them wanted to take on any of the offices, such as chairman and secretary, and the committee was down to four members.
'The society's membership has aged. Many have been with it since it started and many of us are now into our 70s and not prepared to take on these issues.
'There is not enough youth interest — we have tried to get the school involved, but without much success,' he said.
The society acknowledged its difficulties in May, but postponed a final decision for six months hoping more volunteers would come forward.
The society's aims were to encourage public interest in the care of the beauty, history and character of the town and to help in preserving and improving its amenities as well as encouraging high standards of architecture and town planning.
It was involved with many of the town enhancements and Bedford Square, but Mr Reynolds said they were very disappointed with that outcome.