MONEY is still 'in the pot' for the completion of the Ruby Way, but there are fears time is running out for it to be spent on the project.

The Ruby Way was planned to be the longest traffic-free walking/cycling/horse-riding route in the UK, which connects Hatherleigh to Holsworthy.

It was hoped, eventually, to link with the Tarka Trail at its eastern end and to Bude via a new 'Atlantic Ruby Trail', boosting regeneration and tourism in the area.

Coles Mill Viaduct was one of the last hurdles of the route which would connect to the town — but plans to restore the structure came to a standstill almost a year ago when it failed to meet requirements for Heritage Lottery funding. The viaduct celebrates its 135th anniversary on January 20.

Graham Cornish, project manager from Devon County Council, last week updated Holsworthy Town Councillors. He said the application was 'basically, ready to go', but faced problems with ownership and funding.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.