SUNDAY (February 7) saw the third public meeting for residents of Bude, Stratton and district, who are concerned by the proposals to build up to 400 houses on Binhamy Farm.

The meeting, held at the Parkhouse Centre, Bude was called to let residents know just how much money had so far been pledged towards the Fighting Fund, and how that money will be used to present a case of opposition to the development at the forthcoming planning appeal, to be held at the Falcon Hotel (March 16 to 19).

Local Councillors Nigel Pearce, Nathan Bale and Ian Saltern, chairing the meeting, were delighted to inform those present that the sum pledged had now reached well over £10,000.

However, the councillors were quick to point out that the target sum (£30,000) had not yet been reached and asked people to please keep pledging money. They also again requested all those who had pledged money so far, to please now send their cheques, made payable to Binhamy Appeal Fighting Fund, to the following address: 132 Berries Avenue, Bude, Cornwall EX23 8QP.

Residents attending the meeting were told that money raised will be used to employ a planning lawyer to prepare a statement of opposition for the forthcoming appeal, and to employ a planning consultant to present the case.

A spokesman said: "The more money that is raised, the more help residents can get from these professionals."

Cllr Saltern also told the meeting that it was vital that as many people as possible attended the appeal to show the strength of local feeling.

Pledges and cheques can also be left in the Fighting Fund boxes at Wroes, Lansdown Dairies, HBH Woolacott and Life's a Beach Restaurant, Summerleaze.