Cash boost for town plan

A Somerset town has received a cash grant of £85,000 to help plan for its future.

Shepton Mallet was granted £60,000 from the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA), and £25,000 from the local council.

The cash will be used to help local people and businesses develop a plan to breathe new life into the town and surrounding area.

Potential ideas include improving the town centre and encouraging work skills development.

Zena Pollard, of local community group Shepton 21, which will oversee the plan, said: "We have already undertaken a study to look at the town's needs and opportunities.

"Now we have funding, this is a fabulous opportunity to ensure we make a real and lasting difference to the community here."