the boys nEx t door - The Braunton Neighbourhood Police Team - page 21
Ex perience - Clare Smyths Chocolate Tarts - page 23
Ex plained - Graham Bell Page - page 28
The Braunton Ex press - pages 32/33
Ex plained - Braunton Academy - Student Showcase - page 37
Ex plained - The £10 a Day Challenge - page 40
The Dog Nex t Door - Pixie - page 41
Ex plained - Greenfingers The Alan Titchmarsh Column - page 43
Ex perience - Stay and Play - page 44
Ex perience - Kids Page - page 45
Ex perience - Christ Church Braunton - page 48
Ex plained - A Design of Life The Kevin McCloud Column - page 49
Ex plained - A Love of Local - page 51
Ex perience - Sumptuous Summer Drives - page 53
Ex plained - North Devon Ramblers - page 54/55
perplEX Just for Fun - page 59
The Cats nex t door - Merlin - 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 June 2nd, this months Speaker is Ashley Jones talking about “The Dicken Medal - Animals at war” 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. 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
Come and join our celebration! Its 40 years since the Methodist Church, Hills View joined with the United Reformed Church, Challoners Road. The celebration is on the 7th June at 11am followed by a shared lunch. See you there!
THE BRAUNTON MUSEUM AND INFORMATION
The Museum is putting on a new display of Braunton at Leisure over the years. We are looking for any photos of sports and social clubs over the years and old sports equipment on loan to the Museum for this project please. We are very lucky to have three new volunteers at the Museum and welcome them. We are hoping with extra help that we can open on some Saturdays throughout the summer. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Barbara on 07740941263
BRAUNTON FUNDRAISING GROUP FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK
Hello everyone, hope you are all well. This month we have our summer coffee morning on 13th June at the Parish Hall, doors open at 10am.There will be lots of stalls including our ever popular cake table and our exciting raffle. Also in June we are holding a quiz night at Croyde Bay holiday camp on 18th June, door's opening at 7pm. if anyone is interested and would like to purchase tickets please contact Jackie on 814475. Our last quiz held in March raised £608 and March coffee morning raised £475.03. For that's over £1000 raised for Cancer Research UK'S trials We couldn't do this without the help of all our loyal customers. A big thankyou to you all.
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.
Warning - Fake Security Apps
A widespread scam is tricking people into installing fake security apps. Scammers impersonate major email and tech providers to convince you that your account is at risk so they can steal your personal information.
Scammers send urgent messages that look like they are from your email provider (e.g., Outlook, Gmail, iCloud, or Yahoo).
These include official-looking emails or texts warning of unauthorized logins. Urgent pop-ups saying things like, “Security Breach: Protect your account now!”
These links lead to a convincing fake website designed to look like a legitimate login or security portal, where you are asked to perform a "security check."
You are guided through a series of fake "security steps. At the end, you are prompted to download and install a security app or certificate to "fix" the issue.
In reality, this app is malware designed to monitor your device. It bypasses security: because you are tricked into giving the app permission to install, your antivirus might not always block it. Persistent spying: Once installed, the app can monitor your keystrokes, read your messages, and access your contacts even after you close your browser.
How to Protect Yourself
Your email provider will never ask you to install a separate "security app" via a pop-up or a link in an email.
Red Flags to Watch For:
• Being asked to install software to "verify" your identity.
• Requests to share your real-time location or contact list.
• Prompts to enter your password on a site you didn't navigate to yourself. Golden Rule: If you get a security alert, close the message. Instead of clicking the link, open a new browser tab and log in directly through the official website (e.g., mail.google.com or outlook.com) to check your account status.
Quick Tips
• Check the URL: Before typing your password, look at the address bar. If the website name looks slightly "off" (e.g., security-login-check.com instead of microsoft.com), leave immediately.
• Use 2SV: Enable Two-Step Verification. It’s the single best way to stop a scammer even if they get your password. For more information on setting, up 2SV please see here - Setting up 2-Step Verification (2SV) | National Cyber Security Centre What to Do if You are a Victim
• Report it: Visit - UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud or call 0300 123 2040.
• Contact your bank: If you shared financial details, contact your bank's fraud department immediately by calling 159.
• Report Phishing: Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and suspicious texts to 7726. Scammers rely on urgency and fear. By sharing these red flags, you help take away their power!
As an ICU nurse, I see a lot of grief as well as triumph. The triumphs are always wonderful but there is very little we can do for a grieving family who are enduring the very worst. One of the hardest things about I’ve learnt about grief is that it is so random, messy and chaotic. And, for many people, it is something that can feel utterly insurmountable. Grief is a journey that no one should have to walk alone, that is why I wanted to highlight the work of Rise & Spark, which I was recently invited to visit at the “Ask for Jake” hub here in Braunton. Whether your loss is recent or from years ago, the weight of it can often feel isolating. Rise & Spark believe in the power of connection, understanding, and shared experience to help navigate the darkest of times. They host monthly support sessions at the Ask for Jake Hub. The mission is to provide a safe, calm, and entirely non-judgemental space where you can simply be. Sessions aren’t about "fixing" grief, they are about finding ways to carry loss with more ease.
Rise & Spark focus on providing a Safe Space to Share with no pressure to speak, a friendly, welcoming environment to meet others with shared experiences, and, to provide coping strategies; practical ways to manage the daily challenges that grief brings. You don’t need an appointment or a referral. Simply phone, or visit the website and just show up as you are.
Website: www.riseandspark.co.uk, Phone: 07824620565 “Let’s find the spark of hope together.”
After visiting Rise & Spark, I came away feeling that this is exactly the sort of quiet, practical, human support that all communities need. Braunton is fortunate to have people willing to create that space, and I wanted to help make sure more residents know it is there. If you are struggling, or if someone you love is struggling under the weight of grief, this may be a very good place to start.
Saunton Road
Following my discussion of the new A361 speed cameras in the March edition of EX33, there has been a renewed interest in safety on Saunton Road. Over the last decade, there has been a growing need to consider the speed and alternative options that will make walking and cycling on Saunton Road safer and less frightening. Over the next few weeks I will be delivering an online and printed survey asking for opinions on Saunton Road. Then, in June I will be addressing the Highways Committee and will be presenting my findings as well as discussing safety, speed and future options for improving the economic, environmental and safety factors between Braunton and Croyde.
You can find the complete survey at https://tinyurl.com/SauntonRoad
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
Summer Events at Braunton Recreation Ground
We are excited to welcome a number of events this summer at Braunton Recreation Ground:
Braunton Fun Fair
25 June - 5 July 2026
5.00pm-8.30pm (2.00pm-8.30pm weekends)
Wheels
Car, Bike and Vehicle Show
26 July 2026—10.30am-4.00pm
Big Summer Bash 1 August 2026
12.00 noon-8.00pm
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
Full Council meetings are held in the 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 20 June 2026.
Full Council Meeting 7pm Tuesday 9th June 2026
Additional Council Meeting 7pm Monday 22nd June 2026
the
Pixie is a three-year-old Bichon Frise looking for a loving home at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe Rehoming Centre. Little is known about her past as she arrived in the charity’s care as a stray. She is currently living off-site in a foster home, having a quality home-life experience while she waits for her forever family.
Pixie is a timid girl who is initially shy when you first meet her, although after spending only a short amount of time with her foster carers, she has already grown in confidence. Her foster carers said, “She has wagged her tail practically non-stop since she arrived. She loves sitting on your lap and having cuddles.”
Pixie is happy to travel in the car. While she is not into long treks, she does enjoy going for a couple of shorter walks every day. She plods along gently on her lead and enjoys meeting and greeting other dogs. Once Pixie is comfortable with someone, she likes having her fur brushed. She is not yet into playing with toys, but she does enjoy zoomies around the garden and rolling around on the grass.
Pixie could share her home with secondary school aged children, and another calm, confident dog. She has no history with cats, small pets, or livestock.
If you think Pixie might be the perfect match for you, please get in touch to find out more information.
Visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/ilfracombe
Could Pixie Be Your Perfect Match? Dog of
Month - Pixie
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.
Tuesday 2nd June
Time Out Tuesday – Ilfracombe
A circular 5 mile evening stroll around Ilfracombe. Meet at the Jonathan Edwards mosaic on the promenade.
Start Time: 6.30pm
Estimated Finish: 8.30pm
Tuesday 9th June
Time Out Tuesday – Bideford
A circular 5 mile evening stroll around Bideford Meet at Tarka the Otter statue on the quay.
Start Time: 6.30pm
Estimated Finish: 8.30pm
Wednesday 10th June
Exford and Room Hill
A 6 mile circular walk with beautiful views across the moor with one fairly steep ascent and descent.
Meet at Exford Car Park.
Start Time: 10.30am
Estimated Finish: 2.30pm
Thursday 18th June
A circular stroll, coffee and chat through Valley of the Rocks, Lee abbey Cottage Tea Rooms and the SWCP.
Meet at Barnstaple Bus Station at 9.40am.
Estimated Finish: 3.15pm
Tuesday 23rd June
Time Out Tuesday – Braunton
A circular 5 mile stroll around Braunton
Meet at The Countryside Centre Caen Street Car Park.
Start Time: 6.30pm
Estimated Finish: 8.30pm
Friday 26th June
Webbers Post to Wooton Courtney
A 7.5 mile circular leisurely walk across open moorland with beautiful views over Exmoor.
Meet Webbers Post Car Park.
Start Time: 10.30am
Estimated Finish: 3.30pm
Tuesday 30th June
Time Out Tuesday – Barnstaple
A 5 mile circular leisurely stroll around Barnstaple.
Meet at Barnstaple Railway Station
Start Time: 6.30pm
Estimated Finish: 8.30pm
In addition there is a Two Moor Ways 50th Anniversary walk in June led by Two Moors Way Assoc. Please refer to our website for more information: northdevonramblers.org
HIDDEN MESSAGE Painters
Mays' answer was:
“All the colours are the friends of their neighbours and the lovers of their opposites.”
- Marc Chagall
Merlin is a 9 domestic short hair male. He came into care after his owner had to give him up due to personal circumstances. He is very friendly and has lived with other cats but was very dominant, so would be best with no other cats in the home. Merlin is friendly with adults and children, but has no experience living with dogs. He needs access to outside.
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 further information please contact; T; 0345 3714203 E; barnstaplecats@hotmail.com W; www.cats.org.uk/barnstaple f;
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
