AN appeal to raise money for West Devon communities affected by the foot and mouth crisis has been launched by the borough council.

The Green Ribbon Appeal will raise funds for the Devon Community Foundation, a registered charity, which gives grants to voluntary groups working within the community.

All money raised from the appeal will go to West Devon and the foundation is able to match pound for pound all donations from Government funds.

Everyone who donates to the appeal will be given a green lapel ribbon.

Mayor of West Devon Cllr Christine Grills, who launched the appeal, said: 'Foot and mouth has taken a terrible toll on our community and will continue to do so for quite a while yet.

'We felt that a green ribbon is a small symbol to show that people care about what is happening in their community.

'Everyone in West Devon knows someone who has been affected by the foot and mouth outbreak — whether it be a farmer or a business.

'Please give generously. The Green Ribbon Appeal is for West Devon communities alone so all the money raised can be used to help our borough.'

Donations to the appeal can be made at West Devon Borough Council's offices in Kilworthy Park, Tavistock, and Oaklands Drive, Okehampton.