NEWTON Abbot Civic Society is to extend its catchment area after members agreed to a name change at the annual meeting.

The group, now named Newton Abbot and District Civic Society, covers Kingsteignton, Kingskerswell, Ipplepen, Ogwell, Abbotskerswell and Teigngrace as well as Newton Abbot.

Members believe it will give them a stronger voice on issues involving those areas.

The annual meeting also discussed the membership fee – to remain at £10 a year – and the year’s activities.

Particularly mentioned was the group’s involvement with the Royal British Legion in the commemoration of the start of the first world war, and the society’s organisation of the civic awards.

Guest speaker Keith Stokes-Smith described his work as a magistrate and gave an insight into the challenges faced by the magistracy.