Ex plained - Greenfingers The Alan Titchmarsh Column - page 14
Ex plained - Paul Hollywood’s Scones - page 19
the boys nEx t door - The Braunton Neighbourhood Police Team - page 21
Ex plained - Overseas Overdrawn? - page 23
Ex plained - Graham Bell Page - page 28
The Braunton Ex press - pages 32/33
Ex plained - Braunton Academy - Student Showcase - page 37
The Dog Nex t Door - Daisy - page 41
Ex plained - Dine by Design - page 43
Ex perience - Stay and Play - page 44
Ex plained - Just Right For July - page 49
Ex plained - North Devon Ramblers - page 54/55
perplEX Just for Fun - page 59
The Cats nex t door - Fifi - page 60
EXperience - What’s On - page 61
indEX of Advertisers - page 62
The Braunton Community Page
BRAUNTON & DISTRICT U3A
Monthly meetings in the Parrish Hall, 1st Tuesday of the month. Next meeting is Tuesday July 7th, this months Speaker is Alex Bowler his subject“ My Big Cat Sitings” Entry £2 includes tea/coffee and a biscuit. Members only, new members welcome, sign up on the day. For more information on U3A activities check the Braunton U3A website.
BRAUNTON LIBRARY
Mondays 11.15-12.00 Stay & Play.
Every other Monday Crochet & coffee 2-4pm, enquire in library for details.
Creative Writing second Wednesday of the month 1-3pm. £2.
Wednesday’s Stay & Play 11.15-12.30.
Thursdays 9.30-11am Stay & Play.
Fridays Crafts & a cuppa 2.30-4pm £2.
Fridays 11.15 Mini Readers, Term time only, under 5s
Saturdays Playmobil 10.15-Midday for 4 year Olds plus.
Reading Groups please ask for details. Pebble painting for adults, ask in Library for details. Summer events
Saturday July 11th Launch of Summer Book Quest in the Parrish Hall 10.30~12.30 free event.
Wednesday July 29th - Devon Science at Braunton Library 1.30-3pm please ask in library for details
Thursday July 30th - The Librarians 2.30-3.30pm please ask in the library for details
Volunteers required to help with Library Extra opening, 2 hours a month would make a difference.
Other activities and events are all advertised on our Facebook page and website.
Did you know that we have a free service delivering books to your door (Braunton area) if you are unable to get to the library? If you think you or someone else would benefit from the Devon Libraries Home Library Service then please contact us on 01271812808
BRAUNTON COUNTRYSIDE CENTRE
Open 10am-4pm every day except Sunday, come in and learn about local flora & fauna. Lots to keep children, and adults interested. Entry is free, but a small donation is always welcome.
CHRIST CHURCH, BRAUNTON
Saturday 4th July - 10am – 12 Coffee morning at Christ Church. All money raised will go towards Toilet Twinning. www.toilettwinning.org. Everyone welcome. Home made cakes, raffle, books and more. Community Café meets every Thursday at Christ Church 2.30 - 4.30pm. Come along and enjoy a warm welcome, a cuppa and home made cake - all for just £1.50. All ages welcome. See you there!
THE BRAUNTON MUSEUM AND INFORMATION
We are hoping the next few weeks will bring in more visitors and of course we welcome dogs (some always looking for biscuits!!!) We are also looking for some more second hand paperback books please if you are looking for somewhere to take them. We have our summer flowers and hanging baskets now outside and everyone stops to admire them they are so pretty.
BRAUNTON FUNDRAISING GROUP FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK
Hello everyone, well July is upon us and I expect many of you are looking forward to summer breaks. Would like to tell you all that Jackie has resigned from her position at being chair lady but is continuing her help on the committee. Thankyou Jackie for all your hard work these past few years. Our new Chairlady, Jill Norman is a very keen member of our fundraising group. Good luck Jill. Again might I say if anyone out there would like to join our fundraising group for Cancer Research UK, please get in touch with Chris on 812455.
BRAUNTON PARKINSON’S CAFE
Second Monday of the month at the Vivian Moon Centre, Chaloners Road, Braunton, EX33 2ES - 10.30 -12noon. A Parkinson’s Cafe is specifically for people with Parkinson’s, their partners, carers, family and friends to meet together for a cuppa and a chat in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. It is organised by volunteers from Parkinson’s UK and the Rotary Club of Braunton Caen. Please join us for a chat and the opportunity to make new friends. Contact Sarah on 01271 816150 or just turn up.
THE ROTARY CLUB OF BRAUNTON CAEN MEMORY CAFÉ
Last Wednesday of the month at the Vivian Moon Centre, Chaloners Road, Braunton, EX33 2ES 2-4pm
A memory café is a friendly and informal café with a warm Rotary welcome in a relaxed atmosphere, for people with memory problems. Please come and join us for a chat, fun and refreshments, as well as making new friends. It is free of charge. Just turn up or contact Geoff on 01271 815377.
JP Horticulture
A professional and friendly gardening and grounds maintenance service. Domestic and Commercial. Experienced and RHS qualified.
Please contact us to discuss your needs.
Phone - James 07794268963
Email - jphorticulture@hotmail.com
Based in Braunton, serving North Devon
Romance fraud costs UK victims £102 million
People across the UK lost more than £102 million to romance fraud last year this typically involves offenders building trust and emotional connections over time before requesting money. These requests are often justified using fabricated reasons, such as emergencies, investment opportunities or plans to meet in person. Romance fraud remains closely linked to online environments, particularly social media and dating platforms, where criminals can easily create convincing fake profiles. Investigators have also noted an increase in the use of AI-generated images and messages to make fraudulent identities appear more realistic. In many cases, romance fraud is combined with fake investment schemes, including cryptocurrency, increasing the financial risk to victims. Police are urging people to stay vigilant when forming online relationships and to watch for these warning signs:
Early Warning Signs (Profile & First Contact)
· Too good to be true profile - Unrealistically attractive photos or “perfect” life story (military, engineer abroad, widowed with child, etc.)
Very quick emotional connection - They express love or deep feelings within days (“love bombing”)
· Claims to be overseas - Often working abroad (oil rigs, military deployment, shipping industry)
Minimal or inconsistent personal details - Vague answers, avoids specifics, or stories that don’t quite add up
Communication Red Flags
· Quickly moves you off the social media or dating platform - Pushes to switch to WhatsApp, Telegram, email, or text almost immediately
Always has excuses not to meet or video call - Camera broken, working in a secure location, bad signal, etc.
· Scripted or repetitive language - Messages sometimes feel copied/pasted or overly formal/unusual phrasing
Time pattern inconsistencies - Claims to be in one country but messages at odd times for that location
Emotional Manipulation Tactics
Love bombing” followed by dependence - They rush intimacy, then build emotional reliance
Creates urgency or crisis situations - Sudden emergencies: illness, accident, legal trouble, or stranded abroad
· Plays on sympathy - Widowed, lonely, or raising a child alone
Financial Red Flags (MOST CRITICAL)
Asks for money in unusual ways such as Gift cards and Cryptocurrency
· Requests start small then escalate - Just £50 for phone credit” → later thousands for “medical emergency” Promises repayment but never delivers
Claims money is needed to meet you - Travel tickets, visas, customs or “fees” to release funds
· Mentions large sums of money stuck elsewhere - Needs your help to “unlock” inheritance or contract payment
Behaviour Red Flags
Gets defensive when questioned
· Refuses to verify identity
Profiles disappear or change suddenly
What to do if you are a Victim of Romance Fraud
Report it immediately: Visit - UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud or call 0300 123 2040
If you have shared financial details, or lost money also contact your bank's fraud team by calling 159
More information about Romance Fraud can be found here - Romance fraud | Police.uk
Strangely, many recent conversations have been about St Brannock and the founding of this area. The beginning of Braunton’s history embraces both farming and volunteering. Two foundations of a heritage passed down for over a millennia. If St Brannock had finished his day with a reasonably priced chip supper, then he really would have had the whole Braunton experience. Ours has always been a community that works because people are willing to put themselves forward to help each other.
I’ve recently had the opportunity to meet with some of these groups and to discuss the work they are doing. Projects like Access for All and Wave South West, both based out of Croyde, are providing access to our beaches that our entire community can feel proud of. Likewise, as well as nationally renowned services, we have dozens of small, independent services and individuals helping keep our community beautiful, our library open, and ensuring that people can reach appointments and stay connected. During one recent conversation with Rev Tim Solosy in Georgeham, we discussed the breadth of volunteering locally and how the act of giving is integral to the communities we have built.
Volunteering can be whatever you want it to be. A few hours a month to share a skill, a way to get out and meet new people. Or it can be a huge part of your life. It really is the story that you want to tell, but whatever you choose to do, it will make a real difference. To me, volunteering is getting out and facing the daily challenge of finding better ways to ensure that everyone in our part of Devon has access to the services and opportunities they need.
As part of what I do, I am fortunate to work with parish councillors who give their time to ensure that each village and hamlet is maintained and cared for. Each parish council generally has vacancies for new members, and anyone within the parish can put themselves forward. I really enjoy visiting the four parish councils in Braunton Rural and hearing from, or getting a grilling from, the councillors who have given up a little time each to represent the community.
If finding something that suits you seems challenging, Devon Connect and NDVS (North Devon Voluntary Services) are both fab ways to find something that fits you: https:// devonconnect.org/north-devon-and-torridge. They “help the helpers”. If you are looking to give some of your time and skills, they’re there to help you move forward. Or, if you have an organisation that needs promotion, or you want to build resilience, then they’re there for you too.
As we move forward into 2027, my modestly-paid “voluntary” role is to strengthen and enhance the role of parish councillors and of the voluntary sector. Helping people excited to be active in our community to use their skills and do something special to help define the nature and timbre of our society.
Cllr Graham M Bell (rn)
Devon County Councillor: Braunton Rural North Devon District Council: Lead Councillor for Housing & Homelessness, District & Parish Councillor for Braunton East
Please note, as an RN, I frequently work nights and unusual shift patterns, therefore it might not be possible to respond to queries immediately. If a matter requires an urgent response, please call, message or WhatsApp on 07929159996.
THE BRAUNTON EXPRESS
Clerk’s Office
Chaloners Road
Braunton
Devon, EX33 2ES
Phone: 01271 812131
Email: info@brauntonparishcouncil.gov.uk
Web: www.brauntonparishcouncil.gov.uk
Facebook.com/BrauntonParishCouncil
Hours: 09:00 - 12:00 Monday - Friday
Tracey Lovell, Clerk to the Council
Angela Corner, Senior Council Officer
Julie Spain, Admin Assistant
Meetings Calendar 2026
FullCouncilmeetingsareheldinthe Council Chamber and additional meetings, to primarily consider planning applications, are held virtually.
The next Councillor Surgery will be held in the Parish Hall at 10.30am on Saturday 15 August 2026.
Full Council Meeting 7pm Tuesday 14th July 2026
Additional Council Meeting 7pm Monday 27th July 2026
Dog of the Month - Daisy
Daisy is an adorable four-year-old Spaniel crossbreed who is looking for a loving family to call her own. She came into Dogs Trust Ilfracombe’s care in April when a change in her previous owner's housing circumstances meant they could no longer keep her. Since then, Daisy has been settling into foster care, where she has made wonderful progress. When she first meets new people, Daisy can be shy and reserved. However, once she feels safe and comfortable she forms incredibly strong bonds and shows just how affectionate and loyal she can be. Her confidence has grown enormously in foster care, and she now enjoys greeting visitors – particularly if they arrive with a few treats!
Daisy loves getting out for her walks and is a brilliant companion. Whether you're exploring the countryside or enjoying a stroll around the neighbourhood, she'll be happy by your side.
Daisy has been diagnosed with Addison's disease, a condition that means her body doesn't produce enough steroid hormone. As a result, she will need medication for the rest of her life to help keep her healthy and happy. Her carers know this diagnosis may seem daunting, and it may have discouraged some potential adopters from considering her. However, they’re keen to reassure anyone interested that support and advice will be available, and the team would be happy to discuss her ongoing care in more detail.
Above all else, Daisy is a wonderful, deserving dog with so much love to give. She's overcome a lot of change, and is now ready to find the forever family she has been waiting for.
Could you be the one to give Daisy the happy ending she deserves?
If you think Daisy might be the perfect match for you, please get in touch to find out more information.
Visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/ilfracombe
North Devon Ramblers Walks Programme – June 2026
Please check our website northdevonramblers.org.uk for any changes to our programme. All are welcome on our walks, please wear suitable clothing.
Wednesday 1st July
Celebration King Charles English coast path walk- 5.5 miles circular Brownsham to Clovelly.
Through woods and fields, steep in places with farm tea shop at end.
Meet at Brownsham NT car park.
Start time: 10.30am
Estimated finish: 2.30pm.
Sunday 5th July
South and North Molton.
A 9 mile circular walk through attractive farmland and woodland. Meet in South Molton main car park.
Start time: 10.30am
Estimated finish: 3.30pm
Tuesday 7th July
Time out Tuesday – Ilfracombe.
KC111ECP celebration 5 mile circular stroll.
Meet at the Jonathan Edwards mosaic on the Promenade.
Start Time: 6.30pm
Estimated finish: 8.30pm
Thursday 9th July
Great Torrington circular.
A circular walk though Torrington commons and along the Torridge. Optional coffee stop.
Meet on Torrington Common (Old Bowling Green)
Start time: 10.30am
Estimated finish: 2.30pm
Tuesday 14th July
Time out Tuesday – Bideford
A circular evening stroll around Bideford. Meet at Tarka the Otter Statue on the quay.
Start time: 6.30pm
Estimated finish: 8.30pm
Wednesday 15th July
A Romp around Swimbridge
A 6.5 mile circular walk along fields, paths and quiet lanes. Meet at the Jack Russell Pub.
Start time: 10.30am
Estimated finish: 2.30pm
Thursday 16th July
A 5 mile circular stroll, chat, and coffee around Parracombe
Meet at Barnstaple Bus Station.
Start time: 9.40am
Estimated finish: 3.30pm
Saturday 18th July
Dunkery & Horner Wood Nature Reserve
A circular walk across open moorland, forest trails and numerous streams. Meet at the area above Nutscale Reservoir Cross.
Start time: 10.30am
Estimated finish: 4.30pm
Tuesday 21st July
Time out Tuesday-Braunton
A circular evening stroll around Braunton.
Meet at Countryside Centre, Braunton
Start time: 6.30pm
Estimated finish: 8.30pm
Tuesday 28th July
Time out Tuesday-Barnstaple
A circular evening stroll around Barnstaple
Meet at Barnstaple Railway Station
Start time: 6.30pm
Estimated finish: 8.30pm
Please refer to our website for more information: northdevonramblers.org
JUST FOR FUN
HIDDEN MESSAGE Painters
Junes' answer was:
“Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is painting that speaks.”
- Plutarch
Fifi is 13, but acts as if she is younger. She is a very energetic and independent lady, liking to vocalise and boss you around. She came from a multi-cat household where we think she bullied the other cats, so a home by herself would be best. Fifi would probably not tolerate very young children, but is confident otherwise.
As always with CP cats, he has been Vet Checked, Vaccinated, and treated against fleas and worms. The standard adoption fee of £85 applies.
For more details on any club or event please ring the relevant number
Dance / Fitness / Diet Classes:
Dancing Feet Academy of Dance - 816213
Salsa & Flamenco Dance Lessons with Mercedes - 269146
Yoga with Jules - 07813 874121
Yoga with Simone - 07860 604698
Cardio Kick! - 07876 406077
Toddler Groups:
South Street Baby Group - 07776 261541
South Street Toddler Group - 07776 261541
Noisy Nippers @ South Street - 07776 261541
St Brannock’s Babies & Toddler Group - 07980 915660
Paratroopers Fitness for 3 - 5 yr olds with Laura - 07775 182391
Tag Rugby for Years 2, 3 and 4 with Laura - 07775 182391
Chatty Paces Running Group - Start at the Athletics Track - 07980 342144
Chakra Dancing 07471 894200
Hypno Yoga for Pregnancy and Birth with Kristina - 07907508624
Women's Meditation and Relaxation Circle with Kristina - 07907508624
Paula Harrison Yoga - yoga@paulaharrison.eco - 07917 365318
Private/group yoga and somatic movement classes - 07738014383
Pilates, Yoga, Soundbaths and Over 60s sessions sue@sensegreaterpeace.co.uk
Clubs:
Braunton Original Badminton Club - 374419 or 890185
Braunton Art Group, meet on Thursdays at the Vivian Moon Centre at 1.30pm - 4pm. New members of all abilities are welcome. Tel: 07466 381 770 or email: oldhamstreamways@btintenet.com or just pop in and see us at work.
Braunton Bridge Club - 07734 219859 www.bridgewebs.com/braunton
Braunton Camera Club - Meet on Monday evenings contact Chairpersons 07812753361/01271883306
Braunton Judo Club - bjc@otani.co.uk
Vivian Moon Community Centre Coffee Morning - 815924
Rotary Club of Braunton Caen. www.brauntoncaenrotary.co.uk
Rotary Club of Braunton - www.brauntonrotary.org
Empathy - need some company - See www.brauntonchurch.org
Air Cadets 722 Chivenor Squadron - 07920 091557
Aikido Club - 01769 560605 or 861243
Braunton Army Cadets - 07970 082963
Croyde Surf Lifesaving Club - 890101
Croyde Surf Club www.croydesurfclub.com
Braunton Karate Club - 07736 936738 unionkaratedo.com
South Street Evangelical Church. (currently meeting at Christ Church) 4pm. Tel: 07879 773085
Coastal Community Church - Tel: 813515
(Currently meeting at Sticklepath Primary School, Barnstaple at 10.30am) Life GroupThursdays at 10.30am in Braunton. www.coastalcommunitychurch.org.uk Christ Church Braunton. 10.30am, Wednesday 10.30am. Tel: 07775 804439
Our Lady Star of the Sea at Ilfracombe is now the mother church of the parish. For information please phone 01271 863563
St Brannocks C of E Church (Braunton). 9.45am, Wednesday 10am. Tel: 813367
St Augustine's (Heanton). 11am. Tel: 815795
St Anne’s C of E Church (Saunton). 11am. Tel: 813367
