THREE proposed trustees of an Okehampton organisation set up to boost the community after the foot and mouth crisis have resigned.

Mayor of Okehampton Christine Marsh, chairman of Okehampton Chamber of Trade Ian Bailey and Judy Pride have all stepped down from the First Aid company, which is currently seeking charitable status.

Mrs Marsh said: 'I wish it every success, I really do, but at this time I feel I have nothing to contribute.'

Mrs Marsh said the original idea for a festival in May, featuring the Three Degrees and other big names, was a good one, had it been able to take place when plenty of momentum had built up and foot and mouth was still a threat.

Judy Pride, who was involved with First Aid for fewer than two months, said: 'I just don't feel I am the right person for it. The skills needed are quite specific and I have learned that now.

'The idea behind First Aid is a very positive one, but it's hit a series of problems — they have had the most enormous bad luck. I don't believe anything has been done for the wrong reasons,' she said.

Ian Bailey, one of the original founders of First Aid, blamed ill-health for his resignation.

Tim Jones, a Government rural task force member and chairman of Devon and Cornwall Business Council, who is an advisor to First Aid, said he was 'not at all' worried about the future of the organisation following the changes in personnel.

He said the idea of First Aid was 'brilliant'.

'It's something I one hundred per cent support. If there were big-time problems I would certainly know about it and I would take whatever action was needed.'

Susanne Watt, festival organiser, said: 'There is a complete change-over which is being done officially and through solicitors who are well aware of the whole situation.

'Christine and Judy are high-standing members of the community and work at community level. With no disrespect, we are doing this for the community within the community, but the actual management is done out of the community and at a high level.'

Mrs Watt said the Atomic Kitten and Lulu concert, which had to be postponed recently, would definitely be going ahead in Okehampton on February 9. She urged people to book their tickets now, as prices would increase after February 1.

'We are very grateful to all those people who have retained their tickets,' added Mrs Watt.

First Aid has suffered a series of setbacks in its efforts to put on a big fundraising event to benefit the area.

The original festival featuring the Three Degrees, Damage and the Honeyz was cancelled twice due to problems with foot and mouth restrictions.

A one-day musical event eventually went ahead in August, rounded off by a spectacular firework display. But despite praise by those who attended, organisers were disappointed by the level of local support.

Another First Aid concert featuring the London Community Gospel Choir had to be postponed at the last minute as a mark of respect because of the tragic death of Okehampton student Charlotte Saunders.