HISTORIC monuments and street furniture in Tavistock went under the spotlight at a consultation day held in the town recently. The event was organised by the town council as part of its ?best value? operation. The street furniture presentation involved bin displays and competitions, including guessing the cost of a replacement light fitting, damaged by vandals in the Meadows ? the answer to which was £860. There was a photographic presentation of the monuments involved in the review, taken by Tavistock resident Alex Mettler, with supporting text provided by Rod Martin of the local history society. There was also a questionnaire for the public to complete, which will enable the council to assess the views and suggestions they have produced. Rosie Keyhoe, deputy town clerk, said the consultation was greatly enhanced by the involvement of two students from Tavistock College, who displayed intelligence, innovation, capacity for hard work and ?good old common sense? throughout the day. Mrs Keyhoe said: ?It was evident from views expressed on the day that although most were aware of a majority of the monuments, the level of expert maintenance needed to keep the town?s history intact for the future was less evident. ?Nevertheless, it was generally agreed Tavistock?s history was of prime importance to residents and visitors alike and that the duty of care for these monuments should remain in the custodianship of the town council.? Mrs Keyhoe said although the council was disappointed with the number of members of the public who turned up to the consultation day, the process was definitely a success. ?The people that did come voiced their views and often their surprise at what the council did do. ?Their comments will be noted and considered as the services are reviewed and updated and the residents of Tavistock will have been given the opportunity to have their say,? said Mrs Keyhoe.
