Buckfastleigh is set to name its first Freeman during the weekend of October 20-21, as part of the celebrations to mark the town hall's 125th anniversary. The mystery recipient will not only earn the thanks of the community for their sustained voluntary contributions but the right to drive a flock off sheep through Fore Street should they so wish.

Also to be announced are a number of Pride of Buckfastleigh awards for people who have contributed to the life of the town. Mayor Cllr Denise Rudgely said she hoped residents would turn out in force. 'We are delighted as a town council to be able to stage this celebratory weekend for the people of Buckfastleigh and Buckfast,' she said.

'The cost has been covered within existing funds and what we have lined up is a weekend of events and special guests such as the High Sheriff of Devon and our MP Mel Stride. 'We thought the town hall's 125th anniversary was a fitting occasion to make the presentations and we believe it is the first time a Freeman of the Town will have been created. 'Who is in line for this award is a secret but what will soon become clear is just how much their volunteering has meant to our community and we intend to raise the public's awareness of that. 'Tomorrow will be more of fun-filled family day while Sunday will focus, with a touch of nostalgia, on our history. There really will be something for everyone and it's all free.'

Tomorrow's opening ceremony at 10.30am will be conducted by Dr Peter Edwards, president of Ashburton and Buckfastleigh Hospital League of Friends.

The Pride of Buckfastleigh Awards are to be presented by Sandra Coleman, manager of the Tourist Information Centre and the Valiant Soldier. The Freedom of the Town award will be made by Mel Stride MP at 11.15am. Later in the morning children from the Buckfastleigh Primary School Choir are due to perform and there will be a demonstration of ki-aikido.

In the afternoon youngsters can enjoy magic and a balloon show as well as face painting and traditional games.

Also on the bill is live music, the Captain Jack Sparro Show, a kung fu demonstration, children's Victorian fancy dress competition and cafe.

On Sunday the hall will feature a display by Rosalyn Maynard to include a hand stitched Dartmoor pack pony saddle, a playlet by the Buckfastleigh Drama Group, tea dance and cream teas, art exhibition, poetry, children's paintings, photos and memorabilia, a raffle and music in the foyer.