A NEW Teignmouth fish quay complex costing nearly £1 million has taken a giant step forward.

The promise of European funding has been described as 'the best Christmas present ever' for fishermen.

It means that work on planning the revamp of the Gales Hill area at the harbour can go ahead in earnest. The scheme will revitalise the fishing industry, and also provide a boost to tourism and recreation activities.

'We are now able to drive this project forward from the front, making sure that Teignmouth's rich fishing heritage remains at the heart of the town's future,' said Cllr Sylvia Russell.