THE ANCIENT tradition of inspecting Newton Abbot's watercourses has been carried out by the Court Leet and Court Baron.

The annual view of the waterways attracted scores of local dignitaries.

The age-old tradition dates back to Medieval times when the Court Leet, on authorisation of the King or Queen, dealt with matters relating to local people.

Among the responsibilities of the role was to make sure bread and ale was worthy of sale and that local boundaries were not being encroached upon.

The waterways inspection covered a course of two miles starting from Steppes Meadow past parts of the River Lemon and Bradley Mill Leat to Puritan Pit where a short dedication was performed by the Rev Roger Whitehead.

The gathering continued to Ogwell Mill and Bradley Woods ending at the leat bridge at Bradley Manor where refreshments were provided by Aileen and Peter Carrett.

It was attended by Newton Abbot mayor Councillor Carol Bunday, Newton Abbot crier Eveline Davies and Court Leet Portreeve Michael Davies.

Spokeswoman Wendy Smith said: "While the official purpose of this medieval custom is to check that the watercourses are not obstructed, considerable fun was had on the way.

"This is a great family event in which anyone can join, no age limit. This year our ages ranged from 17 to 86 and people needed only a bit of stamina and stout shoes for the muddy parts of the route."

The next event is the autumn litter pick on Saturday, September 18, starting from Hero Bridge, Newton Abbot, at 10.30pm.