Devon County Council is inviting businesses to public meetings attended by the leader of the council to discuss how the council should spend its budget to reduce costs and save money.

Meetings in North Devon, starting at 6.30pm, will be at:

October 14: the Amory Centre, South Molton

November 16: Bideford Town Hall

Businesses who can't make these meetings can submit comments through the council's toughchoices.co.uk website.

As the public sector raises a huge amount of money through taxes generated by the private sector, this is an opportunity for businesses to voice their opinions and, possibly, influence decisions.

Whether or not opinions are actually taken into account by the council, local authority cutbacks are certain to be felt by all in the years ahead, so now is the time to engage with Devon County Council.

11 members and guests took the opportunity to discuss the budget and other topical issues at June's monthly NDBA lunch at the Chichester Arms, Bishop's Tawton on Friday 25 June.

James Hellyer painted a bleak economic scene, which set the tone for discussing how to move forwards. There seemed to be a considerable body of opinion that there is a lot of scope for public sector cuts which wouldn't be noticed. However, there was also concern at the effect on jobs of cuts and a drop in retail activity.

Suggestions for issues that the NDBA could pursue were broadband provision in the area and the future shape of business support after the abolition of the South West Regional Development Agency.

Barbara Fryer impressed everyone with her outstanding photograph of a white puffin which is available for sale as a limited edition print.

Kevin Woodward arrived late, but in time for the meal, after acting as llama midwife and delivering a male cria. The party raised their glasses to wish it well.