MID Devon District Council will close its counter service at the Council Offices, in Market Street, Crediton, on Thursday, March 31. It is no longer able to afford to pay for what the public regards as a much-valued service.

Until that time the district council says its team of ladies in the office will be helping customers to plan for the change, for example by providing information on how to make a payment in the Post Office, online or over the telephone.

“We will do our best to let all our customers know about other ways of contacting us for advice and information about our services,” said MDDC.

Crediton Town Council will move from upstairs to downstairs in the Council Offices and Crediton Town Council will operate a part-time counter service from Monday, April 4.

Mrs Clare Dalley, town clerk, said: “I am very pleased to say that Mrs Sandy Blake, who has a wealth of experience in customer service and local government, will be joining the Crediton Town Council team.”

Mrs Blake has worked for Mid Devon District Council for the past 31 years. She will take up her appointment in May.

Mrs Dalley added: “We are really pleased to welcome Sandy to Crediton Town Council. She will be the first person people meet when they call at the Council Offices.”

The CAB and Crediton and District Community Transport Association will still operate from the Council Offices.

Alan Quick