WE MIGHT be experiencing the hottest summer for decades, possibly the hottest ever, but one forward thinking council is already making plans for the coming winter.

Poverty in rurual areas and smaller towns can be as harsh as the big cities. Chudleigh Town Council is setting up a drop-in centre for residents who they expect will be struggling with rising food prices and spiralling fuel bills. It’s beleived to be the first in the district to do so.

From September 6, the drop-in facility will be operating at the town hall, offering a safe refuge for Chudleigh residents.

A spokesperson for the council said that despite fuel subsidies and government loans, the reality is that for most families this support barely covers the first energy increase imposed in April.

They said: ‘It does not address the increase coming in October or the current price rises for food and fuel and other necessities.

‘This means that although people will have an extra money to go towards their energy costs it may not make enough of a difference.

‘That is why Chudleigh Town Council is intending to offer the rest centre at the Town Hall as a warm, safe space from the autumn onwards.’

The intention is to provide a warm, safe space most evenings as the nights draw in, between 6pm and 9pm.

People can stay for as little or as long as they like. Free hot beverages will be available and visitors will be able to use the attached kitchen. It will be open to anyone who wants to use the facilities but under 18s will need to be part of a family group.

The council staff member managing this will be Geoff Curtis who also manages the markets held on the Town Hall forecourt.

John Carlton, Chudleigh town clerk, said: ‘The idea was totally Geoff’s idea, his initiative. All credit to him.

‘The council will now provide funding for it and as well as insurance.’

The drop-in centre won’t be available every evening as it will still be needed for council meetings and for existing hirers.

The council spokesperson said: ‘Initially, the drop in will provide warmth, drinks and company.

However, over time it will develop and change. We’ve never done anything like this before so, beyond the basics, we don’t know what residents will want and need.

‘How the warm space develops will be very much in the hands of the people using it. So if you need us, we are here.’

Mr Carlton added: ‘We’re not sure yet how much of a demand there might be. It might be a bit early to open the facility but it’s a way to ensure we won’t be inundated by unexpected numbers. The September date will give us a chance to gauge its popularity.’