Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, the co-chairman of the Conservative Party, visited Teignbridge last week to talk to prospective candidates for the May election.

She visited Newton Abbot on Thursday morning and went onto Chudleigh to discuss the localism Bill, which was introduced into Parliament in December.

This Bill shifts power from central government back into the hands of individuals, communities and councils.

'She was supportive of our wish to partner with West Devon Conservatives as way of cost cutting,' said district Cllr Jeremy Christophers, Conservative group leader for Teignbridge, who headed the visit.

'The AV (alternative) vote was also discussed and we believe it won't work. It could play to pressure groups and minorities. In practice it could open up politics and make room for radical movements, who may not understand or care about certain decisions they'd have to make.

'Baroness Warsi seemed extremely personable and she enjoyed her tour and while she was here got to see areas of Dartmoor that she had never seen.'