AN inspirational informal think tank meeting hosted by South Hams district councillors to revitalise the high streets has revealed innovative ways of increasing footfall and stimulating trade.

It included examples like Ilfracombe which has doubled its visitor numbers after installing Damien Hirst's giant bronze statue Verity - the naked, sword wielding pregnant woman, pilloried by some and loved by others.

Over 65 people attended the evening presentations at Follaton House on Tuesday November 6 as ward members sought to draw in the 'movers and shakers' within the South Hams towns who might be prepared to put their shoulder to the wheel to drive up the success of their communities.

This round of renewed business and community focus follows the Portas Review, an independent review of the future of high streets commissioned by the Prime Minister and carried out by shopping expert and television-star Mary Portas.

During the evening Matt Day, coordinator for Somerset Towns Forum gave a presentation on what strategies have worked in towns such as Ilminster, Frome, Melton and Crewkerne to increase footfall.

Councillor Ron Ley of Ilfracombe Town Council then presented the long term vision which Ilfracombe has adopted to transform the fortunes and branding of the town, including the stimulus from those wishing to see Verity for themselves.

Councillor Ley, congratulated the South Hams Council for hosting the event which was a great success. He said: 'It appears to have achieved much in engaging with key members of the community.

'It has been a privilege to have taken part.'

South Hams Councillor Simon Wright headed up the drive to engage with local businesses, residents and those with ideas about how to restore the 'bustle' to the high street. He had headed a task and finish group on car parking in the district and this drive followed on from that investigative work.

He added: 'The guest speakers were really engaging. They showed what can be done if someone has the ambition to do something for their town. You have to have the ambition to make it happen. As we saw with Ilfracombe it is pregnant with possibilities!' He said communities needed to offer something that made them unique.

'It was a big success. One thing that did emerge was that Kingsbridge Farmers' Market wanted to hold a market in South Brent,' he added. 'This may be a way in which footfall can be increased in South Brent.'

Cllr Hilary Bastone, a ward member for Dartmouth and Kingswear, said: 'The event was very well attended and a great deal of enthusiasm has been generated by the presentations.'