As Barnstaple people gear up for New Year's Eve celebrations we take a look back at the year gone by and wonder what is in store for 2011.

Barnstaple had more than its fair share of tragedy in 2010.  Local people were shocked and saddened by the murders of Deborah Jones and Donna St John back in August.  Teenager Ben Foulds was seriously injured when his bike crashed over railings on Old Sticklepath Hill.  Barnstaple hit the headlines again when an explosion in a Trinity Street flat rocked the town leaving two men in hospital.

North Devon's local radio station, Heart FM, closed its doors in August leaving Barnstaple without a truly local radio service.  However, with strong local support the independent Network North Devon sprang up to give the locals what they clamoured for with The Voice 106 and Festive FM bringing local presenters, music and news to the people of Barnstaple.

The North Devon Festival was a great success once again in 2010 entertaining locals and visitors alike.  The Aegon Pro women's tennis tournament at Tarka Tennis in Barnstaple brought international sports stars to our little town.

So ... what's in store for 2011?  Oceanfest will be back of course and earlybird tickets are on sale now.  The North Devon Marathon raising funds for the North Devon Hospice is set to build on last year's success, let's hope the weather is just as good.  We're getting a HUGE new Tesco on the site of the old Brian Ford's supermarket.

Whatever lies ahead for Barnstaple in 2011 remember to let your fellow locals know about it right here on barnstaplepeople.co.uk.  Upload your photos, share your news, discuss local issues, praise local heroes and list, rate and review local business.

Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year for 2011!