THE launch of an innovative business-booster programme in Tavistock got off to a flying start in the town hall last Wednesday.

Around 80 people attended the first meeting, one of a series of brain-storming sessions headed up by business specialist Graham Vallis, who has successfully used his Towns Alive programme in about 15 other towns nationwide.

The session was introduced by Alistair Cunningham, chairman of the Key Fund which provided the grant enabling the programme to go ahead free of charge to businesses in the town.

John Taylor, chairman of Tavistock Forward which spearheaded the idea of involving the town in the programme, said: 'It went very well. There was a whole range of people, obviously more from the retail sector but with services right across the range.

'Everyone I spoke to was delighted and very impressed with Graham — they all seemed enthralled.'

Mr Vallis said: 'There was a very positive atmosphere in the whole room. I was very pleased with the way it went.

'I think everybody enjoyed the style and content. There was humour and we had good contributions from all the group.'

Mr Vallis said he encouraged people at the meeting to look at Tavistock through the eyes of a stranger — then 'zoom in' to see how things could change for the better.

He showed around 130 slides he described as 'the good, the bad and the ugly', showing a stranger's eye view of the town.

'There were a few wry smiles,' he said.

Mr Vallis said a 'good head of steam' had been built up at the first meeting and he was looking forward to the next one on November 1.

Tavistock trader Georgina Elias said: 'It was very positive. He's actually been round to the people and asked them what they want. It surprised me how much he's been doing.'

She said Mr Vallis is not local and has 'no axe to grind' — she was impressed by his objectivity.

'It's not going to be a five-minute job but I think the town is going to benefit and I'm really pleased we got the money to do this.'

Dick Spackman, of Tavistock Business Association, said the meeting was 'well worthwhile'.

'It went very well. It was very interesting and I think it's an exciting prospect for the town.

'He covered a terrific amount of ground — I'm looking forward to the next meeting.'

Kevin Bryant, of Bryants of Tavistock, said: 'It's not the sort of think I normally get involved in but I am prepared to go on and back it.

'I think it needs supporting. I think it will work, if the majority of retailers and businesses get in there and do it.'

A market research survey of young people in the Tavistock area has already been carried out by Mr Vallis' team, to establish their likes, dislikes and shopping habits.

A selection of businesses in the town have also been interviewed.

The next meeting will take place in the Bedford Hotel on November 1 at 6.30pm, concerned mainly with management effects.

Subsequent meetings are being held weekly until December 7 and will deal with business growth, understanding customers, improving image, promoting Tavistock and planning for growth.