LIBERAL Democrats from Tavistock were given the chance to put local issues in the national spotlight at a one-day party conference in Plymouth last Saturday.

They were among 200 Liberal Democrats from Devon and Cornwall to attend the lively and informative event at the Novotel, by Marsh Mills roundabout.

The conference was opened by regional Liberal Democrat president Noel Thompson, from Mary Tavy.

John Burnett, MP for West Devon, and MEP Graham Watson were among nine South West based Liberal Democrat MPs in attendance.

Mr Burnett was part of a panel who answered questions on topics including the planned rail re-connection between Tavistock and Plymouth, West Devon waste management, the environment and the aftermath of Foot and Mouth.

Mr Watson, leader of the 54-strong Social Democrat Group in the European Parliament, explained the significance to Britain of the recent enlargement of the European Union.

Other subjects for debate included the Iraq situation, health risks surrounding mobile phone masts and local authority funding.