THE former Blackdown Garage site, opposite the Post Office and Stores in Mary Tavy, will shortly be undergoing a makeover, thanks to the efforts of a village community group.

The site has become increasingly unkempt and the Mary Tavy Jubilee Group is to tackle the problem with the aim of making the disused site less unattractive. Planning permission is in process for the site to be developed as housing over the longer term.

The jubilee group has approached the parish council to obtain the relevant permissions they are hoping local helpers will join them on July 16 and 19 at 10am for a working party.

Anyone who would like to join in should bring along tools, compost and a few shrubs or perennials.

There are limitations to what can be done; as a former garage the site is considered 'contaminated' and the fencing barriers must remain as an insurance requirement.

However the group is hoping the appearance of the site can be improved to the benefit of villagers and passers-by.