VOLUNTEERS are needed in South Tawton to form a Parish Emergency Plan committee to spring into action should the need arise.

The large rural parish is setting up a Community Response Team to help the emergency services and to step in if the community is cut off from outside help.

Residents are invited to volunteer everything from chainsaw assistance to building, electric and plumbing expertise, childcare and medical care. Among eventualities which the group will prepare for is heavy snowfall. Another emergency people need to be prepared for might be flooding.

‘Quite simply, if you’re able to, you are welcome,’ said a spokesperson. ‘Yes, we need medics, owner/operators of tractors, tigers and chainsaws (operator certificate needed), builders, registered electricians and plumbers.

‘But we also need anyone willing and able to help with catering, staff reception centres, administration, being a runner, helping families with young children, helping elderly and vulnerable people, to help with anything else as requested, and of course to make cups of tea!’

Anyone interested is invited to email stpcemergencyplan@ gmail.com, reply to the parish council’s Facebook page or contact a parish councillor by phone or in person to find out more.