Target of �106,000 set.

Efforts have begun to raise �106,000 for the proposed community complex in Honiton.

A fund-raising group, led by Councillor Sharon Pavey, has been preparing a calendar of events to help raise the money.

Councillor Pavey said: “We are busy putting together a calendar of events, activities and projects which the whole community can be involved in and really contribute to the building of their very own venue for Honiton.”

The first fund-raising event is set to coincide with a public meeting to discuss plans for the complex on Wednesday, January 18, where hampers, made up of contributions from local business, will be raffled off following the meeting.

Raffle tickets will be sold all day on Wednesday outside St Paul’s Church as well as at the public meeting.

She added: “We would love to hear from local businesses wanting to donate items for the hampers - the more local the food is the better.

“We would also like to hear from any local organisations or anyone with experience in fund-raising who would be prepared to join the fund-raising group. We don’t need a huge commitment - but if everyone chips in to do a little then we will reach our target and have an amazing place for all the community to use and enjoy.”

Plans for the complex in the Dowell Street car park were recently submitted to East Devon District Council, who will make the final decision over planning permission.

Honiton Town Council intend for the building to be completed early in 2013, which is set to include a 300 seater main hall and small meeting rooms.

The registrar for births, marriages and deaths has also confirmed an interest in moving to the centre.

The public meeting, on January 18, to discuss the proposals is being held at 7pm in the council’s New Street offices.

Plans for the community complex can be viewed on East Devon District Council’s website or in the town council’s offices between 9am and 1pm Monday to Friday.