DOORS will open early at a town council meeting on Wednesday to encourage more participation from residents.

Buckfastleigh Town Council will open up for half-an-hour before its full monthly meeting, for people to meet and discuss any issues with the councillors.

Doors will open at the town hall at 7pm and the meeting begins at 7.30pm.

A spokesman for the council said: ‘We want residents to come and talk to us about anything they would like to see raised; find out more about what is going on; how to get involved with projects in the parish; bring their ideas, thoughts and issues regarding the town – or just say hello.’

Although there is provision for the public to speak during the first ten minutes of town council meetings, Buckfastleigh councillors are keen for people to become more involved.

The spokesman added: ‘We really want people to feel free to drop in and chat, stay for the council meeting or leave after the informal session.’