FREE health checks offered by Okehampton Medical Centre staff were taken up by more than 50 residents at West Devon Connect's community event at Okehampton's Charter Hall recently.

A joint venture between a number of public and community organisations, the event saw hundreds of visitors gathering information and advice on a wide range of services.

Along with the medical centre nurses, whose checks resulted in 17 GP referrals, West Devon Borough Council's own recycling and education team informed local residents of the new waste and recycling collection arrangements which start in the autumn.

Visitors enjoyed refreshments provided by the town's Waitrose, while tapping into information from the Police, Fire and Rescue Service, Age Concern, Care and Repair, Hearing Dogs for the Deaf, the town council, community transport and the local Lions Club. A number of other organisations were also represented, helping to make the morning a success.

West Devon Connect also holds regular outreach events in a number of the borough's rural locations, taking services out to residents. For further information, contact West Devon customer service advisors on 01822 813600, email [email protected]">[email protected]