THE ancient tradition of beating the bounds was reinstated after 30 years in Newton Abbot.

Historians, councillors and residents took two days for the 17-mile jaunt around Newton Abbot.

The walk, which dates back to Saxon times, was last held in Newton Abbot in 1979, although smaller versions of the event have been held since. The re-introduced beating of the bounds saw 30 people with their children and dogs tracing the boundaries. The ceremony, which has enjoyed a revival among smaller parishes, was important for checking boundaries and making sure there was no encroachment.

Newton Abbot town councillor Carol Bunday took part, along with fellow councillors, members of the Court Leet and members of the public.

She said: "On our first day we traced the boundaries along the banks of the River Teign from the Town Quay.

"We also walked as far as Kingskerswell, up to Abbotskerswell and came back into Bakers Park.

"The following day we traced boundaries up to Stover and back again.

"It was a lot of fun and the weather was superb. On the second day we had lots of people join us, including those with children and their dogs which was fantastic."