a new interpretation board has been unveiled in South Zeal Recreation Ground.

The ceremony was carried out by South Tawton and District Local History Group, assisted by pupils from South?Tawton Primary School.

The board, situated in the ground's car park, provides residents and visitors with information concerning the conservation area of South Zeal, and the historic landscape of the medieval Newtown, commenced in 1264, from which the modern village has evolved.

South Zeal is regarded by both English Heritage and the Dartmoor National Park Authority as one of the best preserved settlements in England. where an illustration of medieval town planning can be readily seen and understood.

Financial assistance for the board was received from Devon County Council and South Tawton Parish Council, with the majority of the funding coming from the group's own resources.

History group chairman Nick Atkinson said: 'We are very appreciative of all the help received and the interest shown in the interpretation board, which we hope will strengthen the pride local people have in their surroundings, and encourage visitors to South Zeal to spend more time here, bringing benefit to local pubs and services and the village shop.

'With the car park having been recently resurfaced by the Recreation Ground Association, visitors to the village now find a much improved starting point from which to appreciate and enjoy the locality.'

Draped for the occasion in a Devon flag, the board was unveiled by the youngest and the oldest pupils attending South Tawton Primary — the school has taken a keen interest in the project and prior to the unveiling everyone attending was entertained with dancing and two songs from the school choir.