CENTRAL Devon MP Mel Stride visited Exbourne last week to inspect the progress of the construction of The Burrow underground shop.

The warm end to September has aided the progress of construction so far, with the digging out phase being undertaken as quickly as possible.

Keri Quertier, publicity officer for the project, said: 'Mel was interested to view the site and visualise the finished building which will essentially be underground when it is covered by a layer of soil to form a sedum roof.

'He discussed the geothermal heating of the building with architect Steve Blakeman and was surprised to discover that commercial refrigeration units do not come with the same energy saving specifications that domestic refrigeration is required to have.

'As the shop will have high environmental credentials he has offered to look into this.

'In the meantime construction is continuing at a great pace.'

Digging started at the site on September 5 following a nine year effort by the Exbourne and Jacobstowe Community Association to get the project off the ground.

The build is expected to take around 30 weeks subject to the weather.

Once completed the Burrow will provide villagers with post office services, a book exchange, internet access and a prescription collection point.

The adjoined café will use local seasonal produce where available to provide sandwiches, soups and light snacks.

Once open, it is hoped that a breakfast club for Okehampton College students can also be established.

l Mel Stride is pictured right at The Burrow in Exbourne, accompanied by members of the Exbourne and Jacobstowe Community Association.