Festive Diary

Festive

Winter Diary 2011

November Friday 18 November - Friday 23 December EXHIBITION, BARNSTAPLE Christmas Through the Ages, Barnstaple Heritage Centre.

Tues-Fri 10am-4.30pm. Sat 10am-3.30pm. From Saxons to Victorians find out how Christmas was celebrated with sights and sounds and fascinating facts in an exhibition that will appeal to young and old! Admission: Adults £3.50, Concessions £3. Children £2.50. Family Ticket (2 Adults & 2 Children) £10. Group Rates available. Wheelchair access. Contact: Barnstaple Heritage Centre on 01271 373003. website: www.barnstapletowncouncil.co.uk Friday 25 EXMOOR CAROLERS St Sabinus, Woolacombe, 8pm. £7.50 on the door or from 01271 870467. For all Exmoor Caroler performances see panel on p.85.

Friday 25 LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING, MINEHEAD Christmas lights and late-night shopping.

Saturday 26 ACOUSTIC CONCERT, ROADWATER As part of his European Tour Kieran Goss, Ireland’s premier solo artist, will be in concert at Roadwater Village Hall. 7.30 for 8pm.

Tickets £9.50 in advance. Contact John Middleton 01984 641426/ johnmiddleton04@gmail.com or visit www.roadwaterperformance.com Bar and refreshments available.

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 EXMOOR CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR, PORLOCK Local crafts & gifts. Craft demonstrations. Village Hall.

Sat. 12 noon-6pm. Sun. 10am-4pm.

Refreshments all day. Free entry. Disabled parking, access & toilets.

Saturday 26 ACOUSTIC MUSIC CONCERT, COMBE MARTIN Shammick Acoustic, Pack o’ Cards, High St: Pete Coe in concert, multi-talented folk artist, plus local performers. 8pm onwards. £6 in advance via www.wegottickets.com/event/92551 or from venue, £7 at door. 01271 882366. Wheelchair accessible.

WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY CHRISTMAS SERVICE December 2 and 3 Special Trains from Bishops Lydeard to Dunster and Minehead for Dunster by Candlelight Event ** December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 23 & 24 Santa Express between Bishops Lydeard & Williton** December 4, 11, 17, 18, 21, 24 Santa Special Trains between Bishops Lydeard & Crowcombe Heathfield** December 18, 23 and 24 Santa Special Trains between Minehead & Blue Anchor **

December 12, 13 and 14 Carol Trains between Minehead & Williton & Bishops Lydeard & Williton** December 27 to January 2 Daily Steam Train services over whole length of the line December 28 & 29 Winter Steam Festival with extra services 2012 Train services resume on February 11. ** Indicates advance ticket booking is strongly advised Please call 01643 704996/visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

S&DJR No 88 with a Santa Express at Whiskey Trail by Alan Turner, courtesy West Somerset Steam Railway

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 CHRISTMAS FAIR, BROMPTON REGIS Annual Christmas Fair, Pulhams Mill. 10am-5pm. 01398 371366. www. pulhamsmill.co.uk

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Diary NOW OPEN

CHURCH HOUSE ANTIQUES Church Institute, Bancks Street, Minehead AN IMPRESSIVE VICTORIAN CHURCH INSTITUTE IS THE HOME OF THIS NEW ANTIQUES CENTRE, OFFERING A WIDE SELECTION OF ANTIQUE, PERIOD AND VINTAGE FURNISHINGS, PAINTINGS, GLASSWARE, CERAMICS, JEWELLERY, COLLECTABLES AND ITEMS OF INTEREST FOR THE GARDEN & CONSERVATORY.

CHURCH HOUSE ANTIQUES IS ALSO THE NEW SHOWROOM FOR MOONLIGHT ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE LIGHTING, FORMERLY OF DUNSTER.

www.moonlight-lighting.co.uk OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY, 10am till 5pm

Tel: 01643 708111 Email: periton@tiscali.co.uk

Tea and Coffee blended and roasted in the heart of the West Country Based in the small Exmoor village of Porlock, Miles have been blending and roasting coffee on its premises using the finest teas and coffees from around the world.

With over 100 years of tasting experience, Miles have been delivering great tasting tea and coffee to retailers, hotels, cafes and people who’ve just called in to say ‘Hello’ since 1888.

Croft House and Wyndham House are two of Somerset Care's 27 care homes in the South West. The newly completed Croft House (Williton) opened in May 2011, and provides residential and dementia care for 67 residents. Wyndham House (Minehead) provides a high level of care with excellent food (5-star hygiene rating), in a wonderful setting.

Croft House: 01984 632536 Wyndham House: 01643 703934

Womens fashion Great Plains Numph Fever Nour of London Jewellery Stone Handbags Opening Hours Mon to Sat 10.00 to 5.00 1 The Parade Minehead Somerset TA24 5NL

Daisy Nail and Beauty We offer a variety of treatments including • facials • manicures • pedicures • tanning

• massage • waxing • wrinkle reducing injections • facial fillers • lip augmentation

• facial sculptering • facial peels • hand and neck hydration • laser teeth BEFORE whitening

All treatments are carried out by qualified Nurse Practitioner.

Visit our salon to discuss the treatments we have on offer.

Tel: 0800 387948

www.djmiles.co.uk

Please quote EMA2011 in any correspondence.

80 2011 80 Exmoor ExmoorWinter Winter 2011

AFTER

4 & 6 Friday Street • Minehead • Somerset • TA24 5UA Tel: 01643 704760 Email: daisynailandbeauty@yahoo.co.uk www.daisynailandbeauty.co.uk

Diary Wednesday 30 – Sunday 4 CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL, MINEHEAD Avenue Methodist Church.

The Festival is again being organised jointly by Save the Children and the Avenue Methodist Church. The opening ceremony will take place on Wednesday 30 November at 6.30pm when all the trees will slowly be illuminated as St Lucia makes her way round the church. This will be followed by a short presentation by a local children’s group and at the close of the ceremony the church will remain open for a short time to allow everyone to admire the trees. The festival will last until Sunday 4 December when it will close with a short service at 10.30am with the chance for a last look at the trees until 12 noon.

Opening hours: Thursday 1 December, Friday 2, Saturday 3: 10am-4pm Admission: Adults £1 (accompanied children free). Musicians will play during opening hours; light refreshments in the church hall.

Sunday 27 MESSIAH, SOUTH MOLTON South Molton Sing Messiah in aid of Radio Devon Air Ambulance Appeal and Chemotherapy Unit Appeal for North Devon District Hospital. Pannier Market. 6.30pm.

Contact: John Parkhouse, 01769 550624.

Sunday 27 ADVENT CAROLS, DUNSTER Advent Candlelit Procession and Carol Service. St George’s, Dunster. 4pm.

Wednesday 30 CHRISTMAS FAIR, WHEDDON CROSS Rest & Be Thankful Inn 9am-2.30pm and 6pm-9.30pm.

Raffle at 9pm in aid of local charity CLOWNS. Contact 01643 841222.

Local Art, Crafts & Food

December Thursday 1 LIGHT UP LYNTON Town Hall Lynton. 6pm. Santa appears on the balcony and turns on the Christmas lights outside the Town Hall, a signal for everyone else in Lynton to switch on their window and external festive lights. Santa meets the children and collects their Christmas letters and lists, sprinkles them with fairy dust to help them to be good. Children who include names and addresses will get a reply from Santa.

Friday 2 – Saturday 31 FAMILY SHOW, BREWHOUSE THEATRE, TAUNTON Alice in Wonderland. 10.15am, 2pm, 7pm. For full details see www.thebrewhouse.net or ring the box office 01823 283244.

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Diary

‘Reaching Out'

by Jane Winton, Mixed Media on Canvas.

Paintings Prints Ceramics Glass ‘Howling Fox' by Brian Andrew, Raku Studio Pottery.

Jewellery Textiles

10% off everything on Light Up Lynton night!

Gallery @ 500ft, The Old Bank House, Church Hill, Lynton, EX35 6HY www.gallery500feet.com 01598 752560

STAINED GLASS WINDOWS and LEADED LIGHTS by

Clare Maryan Green BA(Hons)

01598 752797 07854 434853

21 Queen Street, Lynton www.claresbeautifulwindows.co.uk

Exmoor Flowers Flowers for all occasions Our wide delivery area covers most of West Exmoor

1 Lee Road Lynton tel 01598 753322

82 Exmoor Winter 2011

Lynton Late Night Shopping

Sunday 3 December 5.30pm-late

All shops are open, the local schoolchildren sing festive songs on the steps of the Valley of Rocks hotel, the brass band from the local URC play carols and there are other street entertainment and street stalls including Christmas trees for sale. Father Christmas usually arrives about 6.15pm on an all-singing, all-dancing sleigh and spends an hour or so in his grotto in Queen Street. Many local shops give away festive food and warmed spicy drinks, we have a grand Christmas draw and many of us have promotions on the night too.

Generally a great night out for all the family and a great social occasion! Car parking is free in November/December in Lynton! Further details from Exmoor Flowers, 1 Lee Road, Lynton. 01598 753322.

Your Santa Special awaits

at Woody Bay Station on the A39 between Lynton and Blackmoor Gate December 10-11th, 17-18th, 21-24th Mince Pie Specials

December 26, 27th, 31st & January 1st

Bookings: 01598 763683 www.lynton-rail.co.uk

Diary Dunster by Candlelight 25th Anniversary

Friday 2 December 5pm-9pm and Saturday 3 December 4pm-9pm No parking in Dunster. Please use Park and Ride as signposted.

Also visit www.visit-exmoor.co.uk

Introducing Dunster’s new antique shop

“CHATELAINE” Antique and Vintage Treasures at

14 West Street Enquiries please call

01643 821651 or email

jillwilliams1@talktalk.net

HARWOODS of

DUNSTER

self-winding watches from £145

watch and clock specialist CHURCH ST, DUNSTER

TEL: 01643 821485

The anniversary event will feature the traditional lantern lighting procession with stiltwalkers and medieval musicians will lead you into the village where you will find music, fun and laughter with Rattlebox Theatre, handbell ringers and the brass band. There will be a free balloon modeller for the children, fire juggler, carollers, Blue Moon Theatre and of course Father Christmas.

There will be singing in St George’s Church, hot chestnuts, torchlit walks, festivities at the Castle and much, much more.

Programmes giving full details of timings and venues for performers are on sale throughout the area, priced at £1 with all sales proceeds going to the Hospice. Programmes also contain a trail for the children to follow through the village to collect clues and, once completed, this can be returned direct to Father Christmas in Dunster!

Friday 2 – Sunday 4 EXMOOR NAVIGATION WEEKEND Fun weekend learning to use a map and compass and other navigation skills. The course will lead to a recognised navigation award (NNAS Bronze or Silver). If you’ve no previous experience then the Bronze level is ideal, If you’ve played out in the hills before then perhaps the Silver is better suited to you. Either way all you need is a love of walking and being outdoors! The course runs from Friday evening until Sunday 5pm. Accommodation is at the National Trust’s Exmoor Bunkhouse (Countisbury) and will be in shared rooms. All meals are provided. £160 per person. This course is being run in partnership with Exmoor Adventures; please check out their website for more information and to book a place. www.exmooradventures.co.uk or call Dan on 07976 208279.

Humming Bird

Home • Vintage • Gift • Living

10-12 Church Street, Dunster, Somerset TA24 6SH tel: 01643 821880 www.hummingbirddunster.co.uk

Friday 2 & Saturday 3 DUNSTER CASTLE FESTIVITIES (NT) Part of Dunster by Candlelight. See the Castle spectacularly lit with live music and refreshments in the festively decorated house. 5pm-9pm. Adults £3, children £2. Visit the festive market in the seventeenth-century stables, stallholders will be selling a range of unique jewellery, pottery and textiles. The National Trust shop will be open until late. 01643 821314.

Friday 2 & Saturday 3 CHRISTMAS MARKET, MINEHEAD EYE Friday from 4pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, in the main hall at Minehead EYE with additional stalls in the café area and balcony.

The café will be offering ‘festive treats’ including mulled wine and live music on Friday. Dunster by Candlelight Park & Ride picks up from the car park by Minehead EYE and nearby West Somerset Garden Centre will also have food stalls and special events.

Friday 2 CANDLELIGHT BAZAAR, WIVELISCOMBE St Andrew's Church, 5-8pm. Mulled wine and seasonal food, Christmas hampers of locally-produced goodies, craft stalls, farmers market, games and raffle. Carols and handbells. Free.

Parking free in Wiveliscombe car parks. Disability access good.

Friday 2 WINTER WONDERLAND, SOUTH MOLTON Late Night Christmas Shopping featuring the Christmas Market with Children’s Lantern Parade and live entertainment.

See page 89 for more details.

Photo by Naomi Cudmore

Exmoor Winter 2011 83

Diary B R O M P TO N R E G I S near Wimbleball Lake

Visit one of the oldest sites on Exmoor, mentioned in the Domesday Book (1086)

Pulhams Mill Craft Centre (OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK)

our annual CHRISTMAS FAIR

The Wardrobe Exciting new collections to suit all occasions, from casual wear to weddings, also a wide range of accessories including Vivien Sheriff millinery.

If you are looking for something different please call in and feel free to browse.

18 High Street, Dulverton, Somerset TA22 9HB

November Sat 26th 10am–5pm & Sun 27th 10am- 5pm Mulled Wine & Mince Pie! Food served all weekend

Lots of beautiful velvet and beaded jackets and tops.

Furniture by Ian Mawby, China by Pauline Clements, Local and British Arts & Crafts and gifts.

Christmas Lunches OK !

BO DAYWed 7th Dec • Thurs 15th Dec • Thurs 22nd Dec TO plus Christmas Day

RIVERSIDE TEAROOMS Pulhams made cakes, puds, lunches weekday Book for Sunday Roast and Christmas Lunches

GREEN OAK BARN

Visit our website for future events & courses woodcarving, painting, spoon making, plus more

www.pulhamsmill.co.uk on the road from the bridge on Wimbleball Lake towards Brompton Regis village near Dulverton TA22 9NT

Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12.30-5

phone for Jan, Feb opening times

Tel: 01398 371366

N U M B E R S E V E N Dulver ton high street

01398 324288 PHOTOS COURTESY OF VIVIEN SHERIFF

Lance Nicholson Country Pursuits 9 High Street, Dulverton

01398 323409

Shotguns, rifles, ammunition, clays etc.

Shooting jackets, breeks, socks, waterproofs.

New Barbour ladies range of clothing.

Gifts and accessories.

Fly fishing tackle and day tickets.

www.lancenich.co.uk

Exmoor Healthy Living Fair Thursday 12th January 3-6pm in Dulverton Town Hall

Come and meet Health, Beauty and Fitness Experts from the area and get 2012 off to a great start.

A wealth of information, free tasters, demonstrations & offers.

Refreshments available

FREE ENTRY Any questions call Emma on 07988 518 989.

• Dermalogica skin care centre • Mavala nail care • Absolute Aromas essential oils • Gift vouchers • Come and see us for lots of present ideas for Christmas!

Offering you a practical approach to beauty therapy and holistic treatments Waxing • eyelash tinting • electrolysis • skin tag / thread vein removal ear piercing • Hopi ear candles • massage • manicure • pedicure

Open all day for Dulverton by Starlight, Sun 4th Dec The Old Blacksmiths, Bridge Street, Dulverton, Somerset TA22 9HJ Tel: 01398 324155 Email: info@isiswellbeing.co.uk • www.isiswellbeing.co.uk

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Diary Dulverton by Starlight

Sunday 4 December 10am-late Dulverton Christmas lights, a plethora of street entertainment, craft stalls, music, fireworks and delicious treats, competitions, raffle, and tombola as well as Father Christmas and his reindeer.

Full details: www.visit-exmoor.co.uk

Exmoor Carolers 2011 The Exmoor Carolers are a group of 12 local folk musicians who get together each year to sing carols which were either written or sung on Exmoor in years gone past. Most concerts are on or around Exmoor.

This is their sixth year.

EXMOOR CAROLERS DATES Friday 25 November St Sabinus, Woolacombe, 8pm. £7.50 on the door or from 01271 870467.

Friday 2 December Washford Pyne Church, 8pm. £5 in advance from 01884 860940.

Saturday 3 December St Thomas, Kentisbury, 7pm. Tickets £5 in advance from 01598 763207.

Wednesday 7 December South Molton Methodist Church, 8pm. Collection.

Friday 9 December St Pauls, Filleigh, 8pm. £5 on the door.

Saturday 10 December Stoke Rivers Church, 7.30pm. £7 in advance from 01598 710408 or 01598 710445.

Friday 16 December St John the Baptist, Lynmouth, 7.30pm, £5 on the door.

Saturday 17 December St Mary’s, Pilton, 7.30pm. £6 in advance from Pilton Stores.

Sunday 18 December The Holy Trinity, Challacombe, 3pm. Retiring collection.

Photos by Chris Jelley

Exmoor Winter 2011 85

Diary Saturday 3 December CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING, ARLINGTON COURT (NT) Make a natural wreath for your door and find out other winter floristry skills. Plus a delicious warming lunch. 11am-3pm. Adults £20 including refreshments and lunch. Booking Essential: 01271 850296. Bring secateurs and dress warmly in clothes you don’t mind getting damp or dirty. Wheelchair accessible. Arlington Court, 01271 850296, arlingtoncourt@nationaltrust.org.uk Saturday 3 BAMPTON COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON 1pm-5pm. Bampton Town Centre. Christmas gifts and craft stalls, local produce, shops open, mulled wine, carol singing, Father Christmas, turning on the Christmas Tree Lights. Parking on street and car parks. Contact: Katrina Munro 01398 331777.

More info on www.bampton.org.uk Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 December SOUTH WEST CHRISTMAS EQUINE FAIR, WESTPOINT, EXETER 9am-6pm (Sat), 9am-5pm (Sun). Details and booking available on www.contour.uk.net or by calling 01749 813899.

Jane A. Mares

Sunday 4 CAROLS, DUNSTER Christmas Candlelight Lessons and Carol Service. 4pm.

St George’s Church, Dunster.

Sunday 4 DULVERTON BY STARLIGHT Soak up the festive magic in the beautiful Exmoor town of Dulverton. A wealth of independent shops, restaurants, cafes and tea rooms. Ample free parking noon onwards. 2.30pm onwards, 6.30 Firework Finale. Special attractions include: Father Christmas, Heavy Horse & Dray, Exmoor Ponies, Nativity Display, Christmas Market, Bands, Bell Ringers, Players, Storyteller, Folk Singers, Church Fair and much more! Contact Ivan Gunn, 01398 324395. See panel on page 85 for details.

Wednesday 7 WALKS, WIVELISCOMBE Wivey Walkers celebrate their tenth birthday with two walks.

A 2½-mile afternoon walk repeats the first ever Wivey Walkers walk. Meet Wiveliscombe Square 1.30pm. A 5½-mile circular walk starts from Wiveliscombe Square 11am. Both groups will return to The Square for tea and birthday cake at the pub for a small charge. Wear suitable clothes and bring a picnic. Details from wiveyway@googlemail.com or leave a message at Wiveliscombe House 01984 624777.

Wednesday 7 ENTERTAINMENT, WATCHET with Paul Upton. ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’. Watchet Market House Museum Winter Talks. Methodist Schoolroom. 7.30pm. £2 non-members, £1 members. 01984 631660.

Churchgate Gallery High Street Porlock Somerset TA24 8TP Tel: 01643 862238 E: churchgategallery@live.co.uk www.churchgategallery.co.uk

Contemporary Paintings, Prints, Ceramics & Jewellery Open Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm Perfect Gifts for Christmas Late Night Christmas Shopping Saturday 10th December 6pm-9pm Mulled Wine & Cider and Festive Nibbles

50+ Local Cheeses ARTISAN BREADS (baked on the premises) OLIVES & ANTIPASTI • CHILLIES & CHUTNEYS PICKLES & RELISHES • HONEY & JAMS TAKEAWAY PICNIC & RAMBLER PACKS PIES & PASTIES WINE, PORT, BRANDY, LOCAL ALES, BEERS, CIDER & SOFT DRINKS

Gift Shop Cheese Room Slate Cheese Boards, Olive Oil Come in, unwind & relax. Try a Cheese Platter or Ploughmans with Drizzlers, Antipasti Trays, Cheese Knives, etc. a glass of wine, cider or freshly ground coffee. Browse in our shop. Open all year (phone for times) The Big Cheese, High Street, Porlock, Somerset TA24 8PT Tel: 01643 862773 email: thebigcheeseporlock@btconnect.com www.thebigcheeseporlock.co.uk

86 Exmoor Winter 2011

Porlock Late Night Shopping

Saturday 10 December 6-9 pm A traditional Christmas evening with a variety of activities, with Father Christmas, carol singing, bands, street entertainers and Morris Dancing.

Old-fashioned hospitality in shops throughout the village.

Porlock Visitor Centre has live music and free refreshments including Community Orchard cider.

Christmas Market. Doverhay Museum open.

Quality Handcrafted Fairtrade� Gifts and Homeware�

Tuesday to Saturday�opposite Costcutter,�

High Street, Porlock 01643 863061�

Diary Wednesday 7 SANTA CLAUS, WIVELISCOMBE Santa Claus arrives at 6pm in the Square. Children can come to meet Santa in his igloo and get a present, if they are good!

Thursday 8 VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FAIR & CAROLS, BARNSTAPLE The Pannier Market, Barnstaple. 6.30-8.30pm. Father Christmas, stalls and games, hot food, music, entertainment, traditional fayre, seasonal crafts and gifts. Admission free. Wheelchair access. Contact Barnstaple Town Council 01271 373311. website: www.barnstapletowncouncil.co.uk Thursday 8 to Saturday 10 SUPPER AND CONCERT, KNIGHTSHAYES COURT (NT) Buffet supper (5.45pm) in the Stables Restaurant followed at 7.30pm by a Christmas concert performed by Exmoor Voices in the great hall of the house. £12 concert only. £14 supper only. £24 concert and supper. Booking essential. Elaine Vergette, 01884 254665.

Friday 9 ENTERTAINMENT, DULVERTON Stage School Entertainment. All Saints Church. 7.30pm.

Wheelchair access, parking in town. 01398 323425.

Saturday 10 CHRISTMAS BAZAAR & SHOW, NORTH MOLTON Victory Hall. 2.30-4.30pm. Christmas stalls, show entries, games, raffle & mulled wine & mince pies. Father Christmas’s PA on hand to pass requests on to him – all children receive a gift.

Special post box for letters to Santa. 01598 740477.

Saturday 10 DRAMA, DULVERTON Vamos Theatre presents 'Much Ado About Wenlock' based on the 1850 Olympian Games held in the Shropshire town. A full mask show with original music which will appeal to all ages and backgrounds. Town Hall. 7.30pm. Tickets: £7/£3.50.

01398 323818. Wheelchair access.

Saturday 10 ACOUSTIC MUSIC, COMBE MARTIN Shammick Acoustic, Pack o’ Cards, High St: Open Night 8pm onwards. Collection. All genres of music, song, poetry, story and listeners welcome. 01271 882366. Wheelchair accessible.

10, 11, 17, 18, 21-24 LYNTON AND BARNSTAPLE RAILWAY Santa Specials. Festive family fun on the Lynton line at Woody Bay Station. Booking essential 01598 763487. For more details see www.lynton-rail.co.uk Saturday 10 CHRISTMAS CRAFTS AND FESTIVE FUN, WISTLANDPOUND Collect natural materials from the forest to make your own Christmas cards and decorations. 1.30-4pm. Suitable for children aged four and over. £10 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Car parking charges apply. Booking essential. 01598 763706 or info@discoverwistlandpound.org.uk

Saturday 10 CAROL SERVICE, EXFORD Calvert Trust Exmoor Carol Service. St Mary Magdalene. 6pm.

Saturday 10 COFFEE MORNING, MARTINHOE St Martin’s church. 11am-1pm. Christmas coffee morning with gifts for sale and a White Elephant stall. Coffee and home-made biscuits £1, lots of bargains and friendly chats in the warm glow of the Christmas Tree.

Sunday 11 CHRISTINGLE, DULVERTON All Saints Church, 3pm. Wheelchair access, parking in town.

01398 323425.

Sunday 11 CAROL SERVICE, EXTON St Peter’s. 6pm. For all Exmoor Benefice Carol Services see p.91.

Wednesday 14 EXMOOR READINGS WITH CAROLS, LYNMOUTH Lynmouth parish church. 7.30pm. Readings of interest to the Exmoor congregation of local happenings in days gone by interspersed with all the old favourite carols and followed by yummy home made cakes and piping hot tea or coffee.

Parking free. 01598 753295.

Thursday 15 CHRISTMAS SALE, WATCHET Mothers Club Grand Christmas Sale. 9.30am-12 noon. Methodist Schoolroom. Parking, wheelchair access. 01984 631635.

Thursday 15 CONCERT, WATCHET Watchet Choral Society Christmas Concert. Watchet Methodist Church. 7.30pm. Tickets £5 on the door or contact David Hart (01643 822054) to book.

Friday, 16 CONCERT, MINEHEAD Minehead and West Somerset Arts Society. The New Scorpion Band presents The Holly and the Ivy. Regal Theatre, 7.30pm.

Adults, £12. Under-18s and full-time students aged 18-21, £2.

Box Office 01643 706430.

Friday 16 & Saturday 17 CHRISTMAS CONCERTS, DULVERTON Voices for Exmoor. Dulverton Town Hall. 7.30 pm. In aid of local charities. Tickets £5 from The Tantivy, Dulverton.

Saturday 17 CHRISTMAS MUSIC, NORTH MOLTON North Molton Circuit Choir performs a medley of Christmas favourites. Victory Hall. Doors open 7.30pm for 8pm. Interval buffet. Tickets £7.50 available on a first come first served basis.

01598 740477.

Sunday 18 CAROL SERVICE PARRACOMBE Christ Church, Parracombe. 6.30pm.

Exmoor Winter 2011 87

Diary AUD’S FURNITURE SHED I can offer a unique selection of hand-painted country and farmhouse furniture.

Coffee shop serving homemade cakes and local produce.

Range of Childrens Wooden Toys.

Frugi Baby & Childrens Wear.

Beatrix Potter Range & Hungry Caterpillar.

LizzieShirt - handmade clothes from Cornwall.

20 Broad Street, South Molton.

01769 572999

I like to give vintage furniture a new lease of life using traditional paints and waxed to give a Vintage Chic Look!

West Welland, Ash Mill, South Molton

Tel: 01769 550308 Mob: 07967 232338 Email: Audielil@aol.com www.audsfurnitureshed.co.uk

The Clock Shop 101 East Street South Molton North Devon EX36 3DF Refresh and revitalize the real you with a visit to Personal Best hair and beauty salon in South Molton.

Monday & evening appointments Gift Vouchers available

Personal Best 01769 579156 55 Cooks Cross, South Molton www.personalbestsouthmolton.co.uk

88 Exmoor Winter 2011

Watch and Clock Repairer Specialist in the Repair and Restoration of Antique Clocks

Richard & Mary Werner Phone/Fax: 01769 579090 Mobile: 0777 6380546

richard@werner.fsbusiness.co.uk

Insurance Valuations

Diary South Molton Late Night Extravaganza Friday 2 December 6.15pm The lantern parade from the infant school starts the proceedings, led by the lively rhythms of Samba Soul.

South Molton Town Band and two local choirs will then lead carol singing around the Christmas tree.

For those in hot pursuit of that elusive Christmas present or a few locally sourced culinary treats, there are plenty of retail therapy opportunities offered by South Molton’s individual shops, a special Pannier Market and an arts and crafts fair in The Assembly Rooms. Santa’s Grotto, entertainments on The Square.

70-foot-high illuminated hot-air balloon. www.businesssouthmolton.org

Pop in for low everyday prices, great special offers and friendly local service.

01398 331403

39 Brook Street, Bampton EX16 9LU BEAUTIFUL BARKERS WE CARE MARI & GRAHAM BAKER MOBILE DOG GROOMERS ALL BREEDS WELCOME

WHY NOT TREAT YOUR DOG THIS CHRISTMAS?

NO TRAVELLING NO STRESS NO MESS Tel: 07881 505221 / 01398 361672 beautiful.barkers@btinternet.com

Saturday 3 BAMPTON COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON 1pm-5pm. Bampton Town Centre. Christmas gifts and craft stalls, local produce, shops open, mulled wine, carol singing, Father Christmas, turning on the Christmas Tree Lights. Parking on street and car parks. Contact: Katrina Munro 01398 331777. More info on www.bampton.org.uk

No.

4

4 Brook Street Bampton EX16 9LY Co-operative Shop and Gallery Showcasing local art and crafts Open 11am -3pm Tues, Thurs, Fri, 10am– 1 pm Sat.

Bampton Fruit & Veg

for all your fruit and vegetables and much more

21 Brook Street, Bampton, Tiverton, Devon EX16 9LU

Order via email or phone for daily home or business deliveries.

T: 01398 331204

E: bamptonfruitandveg@gmail.com

ENGLISH TUTOR

YOUR LOCAL ESTATE AGENT COVERING MID DEVON AND EXMOOR BAMPTON 01398 332006 Email: bampton@seddons.com

DULVERTON 01398 324488 Email: dulverton@seddons.com

www.seddons.com

Bawdens the Bakers

...great food and friendly service Fresh Homemade Bread, Pasties, Pastries & Cakes.

Meals & Snacks.

■ KS1 to 'A'level & beyond.

■ Excellent references available.

■ CRB checked.

Winner - Western Bakery Championships 2010

42 Brook Street, Bampton, Devon EX16 9LY Telephone: 01398 331426 www.bawdensthebakers.co.uk

Exmoor Winter 2011 89

Diary CHIVES cafe & deli

a wonderful West Somerset food experience

CHIMNEY SWEEP

NACS REGISTERED CLEAN AND EFFICIENT FULLY INSURED/CERT ISSUED COWLS AND BIRDGUARDS FITTED WOODBURNERS REFURBISHED

Visit us for our food, coffee and ambience.

Eat in our Café - paninis, homemade

meals, delicious quiches and ploughmans.

From our Deli - Cheeses, hams, pies, jams, chutneys, biscuits, chocolates and teas.

Hampers - order online or from our deli.

What’s On? - November 25th & 26th Mexican Food Evenings.

Free Wi-Fi • Open 10-4.30 everyday

WILLITON PET CARE & ANIMAL FEEDS

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Tel: 01984 631508/634277 Email: willitonpetcare@btconnect.com PET FOODS & ACCESSORIES HORSE & SMALL HOLDER SUPPLIES FREE LOCAL DELIVERY DOG GROOMING & PET MICROCHIPPING Mon-Fri 9.00-5.30/Sat 9.00-5.00

Ceramics, Glass, Silver, Furniture, and Fine Art

OFTEC REGISTERED FULLY INSURED/ CERT ISSUED SERVICE AND REPAIRS OIL BOILERS AGA'S AND RAYBURNS

PHONE IAN TEL : 01984 640893 MOBILE : 07502 099323

4 FORE STREET & ROUGHMOOR ENTERPRISE CENTRE

Quality Antiques bought and sold

OIL BOILER ENGINEER

Tel 01984 632038 www.chives-deli.co.uk or email info@chives-deli.co.uk

Chives Cafe and Deli, 33 Swain Street, Watchet

Keith Richards Antiques

Member of the West of England Antiques Dealers’ AssociationThe Sign of Quality in the West

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Torweston Farm, Williton, Taunton, Somerset,TA4 4LL Tel: 01984 632210 Mobile: 07833 337051

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enquiries@keithrichardsantiques. c o. u k www.keithrichardsantiques.co. u k

Specialists in: Krieghoff Guns Oakley and Dirty Dog Eyewear Rhino Chokes FOB Cartridges Also

an extensive r ange of country clothing and country gif t department.

T e l : 019 8 4 6 2 3 8 2 9 w w w. w e s t c o u n t r yg u n s . c o m 90 Exmoor Winter 2011

Diary Exmoor Benefice Carol Services

Festivities at Arlington ArlingtonCourt Court Festivities at Narnia in North North Devon Devon Narnia in

Every weekend in December, 11am-3pm Every weekend in December, 11am-3pm Enjoy a family trail around Arlington inspired by C.S. Lewis' Enjoy a family trail around Arlington inspired by C.S. Lewis' timeless tale. Go through the wardrobe, visit the beavers den timeless tale. Go through the wardrobe, visit the beavers den and vanquish the theWhite WhiteWitch.

Witch. and vanquish

Christmas Past Christmas Past

Saturday 10 10 December, December,11am-3pm 11am-3pm Saturday See Hands on on History Historycreate createaafestive festivefeast feastfrom fromArlington's Arlington's See Hands Victorian cookbook.Taste Tastetheir theircreations creationsand andlearn learntotomake make Victorian cookbook. traditional decorationsfor foryour yourhome. home. traditional decorations

Christmascomes comesto tovisit visit Father Christmas

High Tea 11, 11, 17, 17, 21-23 21-23December,2pm-4pm December,2pm-4pm High Tea £6 per child, child, £5 £5 per peradult adultBOOKING BOOKINGESSENTIAL ESSENTIAL and magic magic 18-20 18-20December, December,11am-3pm 11am-3pm Gifts and child £5 per child chance to to meet meetFather FatherChristmas Christmaswith withaaspecial specialgift giftfor forallall A chance girls and and boys! boys! good girls

Book your place or find out more on

01271 850296 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arlingtoncourt

11 December Carol Service, St Peter’s Exton, 6pm 18 December Carol Service, St Luke’s, Simonsbath (the parish church of Exmoor), 6pm 19 December Carol Service, St Mary Magdalene, Winsford (or village hall if church still closed for repairs), 6pm 21 December ‘Spirit of Christmas’. Readings and music for the Christmas season. St Mary the Virgin, Luxborough, 7pm 23 December Carol Service with the Hawkridge Choir, St Giles, Hawkridge, 7.30pm 24 December Crib Service, St Mary Magdalene, Exford, 4pm 24 December Christingle, St John’s, Cutcombe, 6pm 24 December Carol Service, St Andrew, Withypool, 6.30pm

Registered charity No. 205846.

Sunday 18 MIDWINTER CAROLS NIGHT, COMBE MARTIN George & Dragon, Castle Street. Carols in the bar, 7.30 onwards.

Any instrumentalists welcome as well as singers, words and/or music available. Charity collection. 01271 882366.

Wheelchair accessible.

Sunday 18 CAROL SERVICE, MARTINHOE 6.30pm. Carol Service with folk music interludes by Pip Ash and friends followed by mulled wine and seasonal nibbles.

Sunday 18 CAROLS, DULVERTON Carols and Readings by Candlelight. All Saints Church, Dulverton.

6.30pm. Wheelchair access, parking in town. 01398 323425.

Wednesday 21 CAROLS, MOLLAND Carols by Candlelight. 7pm in the church followed by seasonal refreshments in the Village Hall.

Saturday 24 CHRISTMAS EVE, WATCHET Father Christmas and his reindeer sleigh drive through Watchet lit up by Festival illuminations. See local press for route.

01984 632783.

Saturday 24 CRIB SERVICE, DULVERTON All Saints Church. 5pm. Wheelchair access, parking in town.

01398 323425.

26, 27 & 31, & 1 & 2 January LYNTON & BARNSTAPLE RAILWAY. Mince Pie Specials. Festive family fun on the Lynton line at Woody Bay Station. Booking essential 01598 763487.

For more details see www.lynton-rail.co.uk Monday 26 – Sunday 1 January SKATING, KNIGHTSHAYES (NT) Winter Wonderland Skating Rink. Daily 11am-3pm. Gates open: 10.45am. Last admission time: 2.30pm. Timed tickets for half-hour slots. Synthetic rink measuring 8m x 10m. Booking essential. Please have skate sizes ready when you book. Payment in full at time of booking. Cancellation fee applies. Adult £4, Child £3.50. Contact: Elaine Vergette 01884 254665 Friday 30 – Saturday 7 January PANTOMIME, MINEHEAD Minehead Panto People present Sleeping Beauty. Fri 30, 7.30pm, Sat 31-Mon 2 Jan, 2.30pm, Tues 3-Fri 6, 7.30pm, Sat 7, 2.30pm & 7.30pm. Tickets: Adults £9, Friends £8.50, ES40s/Students/ Children £7, Family Ticket (2 Adults + 2 Children) £27.50.

Box Office 01643 706430.

Thank you so much to all of the communities who replied to our requests for details of your festive events. Our diary is a limited service designed to display the entries which are sent in to us and relies on submission so do keep your dates coming (see page 92)! Further events and details are available at: www.visit-exmoor.co.uk, www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk, www.activeexmoor.com and www.everythingexmoor.org.uk

Exmoor Winter 2011 91

Diary Sunday 1 WALK, WIVELISCOMBE A 5½-mile circular walk starting from Wiveliscombe Square at 11am includes lanes, tracks, the odd muddy field. It is a bit hilly.

All walkers welcome. Wear suitable clothes and bring a picnic.

Details from wiveyway@googlemail.com or leave a message at Wiveliscombe House 01984 624777 Friday 6 PORLOCK WASSAIL Starts 6pm Dovery Manor Museum. Procession through village with music to wassail trees at Sparkhayes and the Visitor Centre.

Bonfire at Porlock Community Orchard. Free refreshments.

The evening finishes in The Ship Inn with a Mummers Play.

Free event, suitable for all ages. Please bring saucepan lids or something to make a noise.

Friday 13 ‘CHINESE’ AUCTION & SUPPER, DULVERTON All Saints Church, 7.30pm. Wheelchair access, parking in town.

01398 323425.

Saturday 14 ACOUSTIC MUSIC, COMBE MARTIN Shammick Acoustic, Pack o’ Cards, High St: Open Night 8pm. onwards. Collection. All genres of music, song, poetry, story and listeners welcome. 01271 882366. Wheelchair accessible.

Sunday 15 CHAMBER CONCERT, MINEHEAD Avenue Methodist Church. 2.30pm. Tickets: £12.00. Florin ensemble plays Beethoven String Trio Op.9 No.1 in G major; Dohnyani Serenade for String Trio; Mozart Divertimento for String Trio K.563.

Sunday 15 - Saturday 21 Jan PANTOMIME, BREWHOUSE THEATRE, TAUNTON The Wayfarers Pantomime Society presents Cinderella by Alan Fryan, directed by Brian Epps as their 50th Gala Production. This promises to be an evening of colour, magic and comedy.

Expect lots of singing and dancing and plenty of fun. Sun 1.30pm & 5.30pm, Mon-Sat 7.30pm, Thurs & Sat 2.30pm. Tickets: Sun 1.30pm & 5.30pm, Thurs & Sat 2.30pm: Full £14, 60+ £11, Conc. £11. Mon 7.30pm £10; Tues-Sat 7.30pm £14, Family Ticket (4 people, max 2 adults) £45 (Tues-Thurs only).

Box Office 01823 283244.

Tuesday 17 WASSAIL, CARHAMPTON See press for details Sunday 22 HEDGING, WIMBLEBALL Practical Hedging Course. Wimbleball Lake. 10.30am-3.30pm. £10 per person, booking essential on 01566 771930. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and bring your own refreshments.

If you have your own billhook/axe/bowsaw/gloves please bring them, otherwise equipment will be provided.

92 Exmoor Winter 2011

Saturday 28 ACOUSTIC MUSIC CONCERT, COMBE MARTIN Shammick Acoustic, Pack o’ Cards, High St: Pat Smith and Ned Clamp in concert, music and song from Wales and beyond, plus local performers. 8pm. onwards. £6 in advance via www.wegottickets.com/event/131358 or from venue, £7 at door. 01271 882366. Wheelchair accessible.

Sunday 29 EXMOOR TRIAL, NORTH DEVON North Devon Motor Club 60 miles across North Devon & Exmoor with a real mixture of sections including the famous Beggars Roost, High Bray and Riverton. Given the time of year and location can be cold and wet, especially when the run takes you across the top of the moor to ‘Beggars Roost’. Open to cars and motorcycles.

Start: Cedars Inn, Bickington, Barnstaple. Finish: Staghunters Inn, Brendon. For regulations and entry forms contact Meeting Secretary Jill Hayward Mob: 07814 387343.

Email: rhayward_69@hotmail.com www.ndmc.org.uk www.eventdirectory.org.uk

February Saturday 4 - Sunday 26 SNOWDROP VALLEY Park and Ride from Wheddon Cross village car park daily from 10.30am-4pm. The access road to Snowdrop Valley will remain closed to traffic until Sunday 4 March to allow walkers a further week to enjoy the snowdrops, but there will be no buses running that week. The Snowdrop Cafe will be open daily in the Moorland Hall next to the Park and Ride offering a variety of refreshments. Details available on www.wheddoncross.org.uk/ snowdropvalley.htm or email snowdropvalley@googlemail.com Friday 10 CONCERT, ALCOMBE Minehead and West Somerset Arts Society. The Carducci Quartet. West Somerset Community College. 7.30pm.

Tickets: £14. Mozart String Quartet No. 18 in A major K. 464; Moeran String Quartet No 2 in E flat; Beethoven String Quartet in C sharp minor, Op.131.

Saturday 11 ACOUSTIC MUSIC, COMBE MARTIN Shammick Acoustic, Pack o’ Cards, High St: Open Night with visiting performer Simon Kempston. 8pm. onwards. Collection.

All genres of music, song, poetry, story & listeners welcome.

01271 882366. Wheelchair accessible.

Jane A. Mares

January

Spring Diary!

We include diary dates that are submitted to us and as far as we are aware the information is correct at the time of going to press. Contact details are included so that you can check events nearer the time.

Please send your dates for Spring 2012 Diary (on sale mid- to late-February), by email: enquiries@theexmoormagazine.com by 2 January. Please try to be specific about times, wheelchair access, dogs, prices and contact details.