WEST Devon Community and Voluntary Services have been forced to close their office in Tavistock, but will retain their office in Okehampton.

West Devon CVS are dedicated to supporting and working with voluntary and community organisations and groups.

Acting where possible with local partners, they stimulate community activity, develop local networks, increase volunteering and provide a voice for the community and voluntary sector in West Devon. They do this through advice, support, practical and development services and providing learning opportunities for people in the area.

The Tavistock office in Kingdon House has been shut due to financial pressures on WDCVS.

Karen Nolan, chief officer for the organisation said: 'It is with great regret that we have closed the doors to our permanent office in Tavistock. It was proving impossible to sustain fully operational premises in Okehampton and Tavistock within our current funding constraints. We are retaining our office in Okehampton at 13 East Street, and have taken this opportunity to look at how we can best deliver our services across the borough, and have come up with a way of providing more flexible access to our services.'

Support for groups and volunteers over the phone has been increased. Those needing support can call from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 3pm. Volunteers can call 0330 660 0357. Groups needing help should call 01837 53392 or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]

If a query can't be dealt with over the phone, a development worker will organise a meeting at either of the CVS premises in Okehampton and Tavistock. There will be a drop-in service for people considering volunteering who wish to talk to someone face-to-face.

In Okehampton, the service will be available from 10am to 2pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. In Tavistock, volunteers can drop into Kingdon House on Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 2pm. Meetings in a more convenient place can be arranged over the phone.

l For more about local volunteering opportunities visit http://www.do-it.org.uk">www.do-it.org.uk