USDAW shop steward and former PoleStar employee Terry Cummings writes to the Times:

'AS one of the people affected by the situation at PoleStar Foods, I would like to commend the good people of the town and the surrounding area for the way we have received their support.

'The girls in the St James Street office of West Devon Borough Council were met with a barrage of enquiries on Wednesday. To quote the girl I spoke to, they had been 'swamped' and had received the training ready for the outcome of the Wiseman's depot.

'I have spoken to people from the Foodbank that has given tremendous support to my friends and colleagues from PoleStar, the people from the CAB for the support that they have given and give — the list goes on!

'David Cameron talks of the Big Society; well look to our little town, an excellent advocate of his Big Society but with no help from the Government.

'Once again, people power has been the driving force. The same care and commitment for our friends and our neighbours which makes this community so good.

'Okehampton should be proud of itself.

'Thank you, all.'