A PIONEERING community group based in Okehampton this week said it was delighted with the positive response by residents to its work.

The Devon Heartlands Community Development Forum has published the final report of its rural action project.

The project looks at sustaining community engagement and gives residents the opportunity to see and hear from those who are working to represent them.

Chairman of the Devon Rural Network and the Devon Heartlands Community Forum Philip Wagstaff said the work had brought about a terrific resource for local people.

He said: 'People now have a really good community forum where they can meet with the agencies and our elected member in an informal and friendly setting.

'The research has been a great opportunity for our local community to become more involved in local issues.'

The report is the fifth in a series of in-depth reports produced by Devon Heartlands on the theme of ongoing community led planning for rural communities.

The report captures all the good work and commitment of Devon Heartlands partners and the local community.

Sgt Jonathan Ludwig, Okehampton's neighbourhood beat manager until recently, said the police service was committed to providing the best possible service for the people of Okehampton and its surrounding parishes.

He said: 'The Devon Heartlands Community Forum allowed me, as neighbourhood beat manager, to get a better understanding of the needs of individuals and the different communities.

'It provides a relaxed way for members of the local community to get together on a monthly basis to discuss issues that may interest or concern them.

'The forum benefits from being free from political bias and has an open door policy to all.'

Forum regulars Dave and Val Cushing said forum meetings helped them to see and hear from those working to represent them.

'We probably wouldn't go to a formal council meeting, but feel welcome and encouraged to take part here and think the forum is very good for local communication.'

The report study by Devon Heartlands highlights the value of local community forums as a key mechanism for sustained community engagement and empowerment.

Anyone who would like more information about the Devon Heartlands Carnegie Rural Action Research Project, or would like to come and see how the forum is working, phone 01837 659991 or email [email protected]">[email protected]

To view or download the Devon Hearlands report visit http://www.devonheartlands.co.uk">www.devonheartlands.co.uk