Ottery Gazette by John Gaffney

Ottery Gazette ISSUE No114

March 2011

4,000 copies free of charge

WINNER National Parish Magazine Awards 2009/10

Sainsburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discussed at packed Chamber public meeting

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Ottery Chamber of Commerce held an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday 9th February at The Tumbling Weir Hotel,

Ottery St Mary, for a presentation by Sainsburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Public and Community Relations representatives and the building contractor responsible for building the store.The meeting was open to the public which resulted in a full house with over 70 people attending.The object of the meeting was to give residents and businesses an

impression of what the building works would entail in terms of length of build and any resulting inconvenience caused during the period. The following points were clarified by Sainburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: z The building works will start in March and should take 6 to 7 months. The store should be Continued on page 2

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completed by the Autumn and the contractors will do their best to minimise any disruption to residents.The build process will start with the Service Yard Entrance from Canaan Way. If there are any concerns, contact can be made through the website shown below.A free-phone number and telephone numbers will be advertised on the hoardings around the works. There will also be quarterly newsletters to keep people up to date with progress. z The site has been examined by an expert archaeology team. Nothing of any value was discovered. z The construction company have confirmed that they will have to use part of the car park to complete works and store equipment. 50% of the car park may be taken up at any time but they hope to complete this part of the build as quickly as possible. Hind Street will have to be closed at some point in order to lay service cables. An appropriate time will be agreed with EDCC. Access will be available for residents. The car park will be finished before the road closure (2 to 3 days). It was suggested that Sainsbury’s pay for part of the car park at Land of Canaan for free parking to make up for loss of spaces nearer to town. They said this had already been dis-

cussed and it would be a good idea if the Chamber also put forward this proposal to EDDC. z The Farmers market will be moved to the Land of Canaan car park. zThe existing Hind Street toilet block will be demolished and Sainsbury’s will provide temporary toilets at the Land of Canaan car park. The store will have toilets when completed. zThe contractors hope to minimise any noise from the building works. Although they will be restricted to work 7.30am to 6.00pm, they may decide to work seven days a week to expedite the building works. z Once the store has been completed there will be 130 parking spaces. There is a legal requirement to make a specific number of these available for the disabled which Sainsbury’s will comply with. z There will be a display panel in the car park showing a plan of the town enabling people to locate the key points of interest and its shops and businesses. z The car park will be open 24 hours daily with a restriction of two hours parking during store opening hours. This will not be policed by Sainsbury’s initially but it may prove necessary if it becomes mis-used. z There was some concern that if there were events held at the

parish church or in town where be advertised nearer the time people would want to park for in local media on Sainsbury’s more than two hours. Sains- website. There will be a core bury’s Tony Cook didn’t see this management team but the majas a problem. He suggested that ority of the vacancies will be the peak shopping times would filled by local people. Most empbe 5.00pm to 6.00pm on Fri- loyees of Sainsbury’s live within days and Saturday mornings 2 miles of their workplace. and there will be room for all. Training will take place at the He did confirm that principally, Exeter stores a month before the car park is a designated the store opening. shoppers car park as declared z Sainsbury’s endeavour to use in the terms of the lease with local suppliers.These are selecEDDC. ted by the buyers for the store. zThe store will close at 10pm. z Concern was raised about the z The store will be predom- large volume of customer’s cars inately a food store. There will causing air pollution. Sainsbe no garage facilities on site bury’s has complied with rebut if the garage in Hind Street quirements agreed during the should come up for sale then planning process and it was not Sainsbury’s may be interested a stipulation that this should be in purchasing it. This has not monitored after the build. been offered to them at the EDDC have air quality proceedures in place. Sainsbury’s present time. suggested that because shopz Deliveries to the store should pers will be shopping locally, it only involve 3 to 4 lorries a day should actually reduce polluand they will avoid peak times tion. i.e school home time etc. z The store will be heated by a Refrigerated lorries will tele- bio-mass boiler using no gas. phone ahead to announce their This was a condition agreed in arrival which allows the store the planning consent. Kier staff to open the gates ready Construction also propose to for the lorries to drive straight assist in some type of commin to the store, minimising any unity project whilst they are noise to residents. here and have asked for some z There will 200 jobs available suggestions from Chamber at the store. These will be a members that they could mixture of full and part time to consider. MUD ON ROADS At the time of going to press, ground works are now under way which may result in mud on roads as lorries remove soil and clay. The contractor is taking measures to ensure that this is minimised by regular street cleaning. For more details on Sainsbury’s Ottery store visit: http://sainsburys-ottery.co.uk/

End of Ottery Skip Service You may have noticed on the Skip Dates panel on page 39, which we run every month, that there is only one date; Sunday 13th March. From April 2011, Devon County Council is stopping the skip service on the Land of Canaan. Held on the second Sunday every month, this well used service will be missed by many Ottery folk who will now have to travel to Wood’s Farm.

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COUNCIL MATTERS

The February Full Council meeting considered the results of the public voting on which organisations were to benefit from the Section 106 money available in the Parish. The Council decided to approve that ÂŁ15,267 will go to the Skateboard/BMX Project with the remaining ÂŁ4,733 to be granted to the outdoor multigym project with future Section 106 receipts for sport/recreation to go towards the outdoor multi-gym until the target amount was reached. Planning matters are issues that concern many of you. East Devon District Council currently supplies copies of plans to the Town Council which you are able to come in and view. However, soon paper copies will no longer be supplied and we will be showing you plans online in the Office. In order that this can be done efficiently, it will be necessary to restrict the times that it is possible for you to look at plans to between 11am and 1pm Monday to Friday. You can of course look at plans on your own computer at www.eastdevon.gov.uk click on Planning and insert the Planning Reference number. With the Royal Wedding fast approaching, the Council has

decided that it may be able to give some limited financial support to street parties being organised for children in the Parish. Please write to me giving full details of where, when, how many children will benefit and who is organising the street party. It is necessary to apply for a temporary road closure and to do this you need to contact Devon County Council Highway Management department on 01392 381459 to get an application pack. The pack is also available online from www.devon.gov.uk and search on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Royal Wedding road closuresâ&#x20AC;?. Note that a minimum of 6 weeks notice is required to process an application but there is no charge as it is a small community event. I would remind you that the Council will make an award to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Citizen of the Year 2011â&#x20AC;? at the Annual Parish Meeting so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time once again to consider who you think is worthy of this honour. That person may be someone who has done a lot in their community, worked to see through a particular community project or...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really up to you to decide who you think merits this honour and why although no Councillor or Council employee is

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eligible. The person receiving this honour will be the one receiving most votes by you, the public. The person voted for must live in the Parish but the person voting can live outside the Parish. Use the voting slip on page 19 (or write a separate letter or email giving all the relevant information if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to cut up your Gazette) and submit it to the Council Office by 25th March 2011. Remember that the person who will become â&#x20AC;&#x153;Citizen of the Year 2011â&#x20AC;? will be the one who receives most votes so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up to you! At the same time as searching for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Citizen of the Yearâ&#x20AC;?, Mayor Glyn Dobson is also looking to back a charity in 2011 and he is asking for your help in deciding which one to support. The Council will help the successful charity with publicity by including its logos, straplines and slogans on the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website and computer-generated literature. Posters and leaflets will be on show at the Council Offices. Once the voting deadline has passed the Mayor will review the nominations and shortlist three charities, then the residents attending the Annual Parish Meeting on Tuesday 12th April will be asked to vote for their favourite charity from the three shortlisted charities and

the charity with the most votes will become the Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charity of the Year. To vote for your favourite charity please complete the nomination slip on page 19 and return to the Council Offices by Thursday 31st March. Alternatively you can email your nomination to enquiries@otterystmarytc.gov.uk including these details: nominated charity, your name, address and phone number and the reason for your nomination. Allotment holders will be eagerly anticipating the start of the growing season and getting to grips with the ravages the winter weather has caused. The Management Committee has asked me to remind you about its AGM (to which all tenants are invited), to be held in the small room of the Institute, Yonder Street at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16th March. Take along some seeds and swap them for some you need in the seed swap! Another plea to tenants from the Committee is please do not dump stones or other debris in the grass areas around the allotments as it means that grass cutting cannot be carried out. Did you go along to the Councillorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Surgery on 26th February at the Community Market? If you missed that Continued top of next page

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opportunity to find out about becoming a Councillor in the forthcoming Local Elections on May 5th, do call in at the Office for further information, or speak to any Councillor. Contact details for all of them are available on the website, or in the Council Notice boards. Judith Reynolds Town Clerk Council Offices, The Old Convent, 8 Broad Street Ottery St Mary, EX11 1BZ 01404 812252 enquiries@otterystmary-tc.gov.uk

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Green Man at Feniton Church

It has taken me a long time to tell you about this but after the worst of the October flood water in Feniton church had subsided I was walking around the church on my own surveying the damage. Near the back of the church I saw on the floor, still covered in mud, a small 4cm block of wood. I picked it up without looking and put it in my pocket, thinking it had probably fallen off the screen leading into the choir vestry. When I returned indoors I took out this piece of wood and to my surprise found it was a carving of a “Green Man” So what is a Green Man? Well the term was only introduced in 1939 by Lady Raglan who used the terminology in the Journal “Folk Lore”. It is a carving either in stone or wood of a man’s head with leaves or greenery emerging from the face. With only a few exceptions the medieval masons or

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wood carvers depicted him as a gentle and benevolent deity. Try as I might I cannot find where this piece of wood came from, we have no missing pieces on any of the screens, perhaps he was hidden in the church and the flood water released him from his hiding place only to emerge as a symbol of celebration. What will we do with him? I hope that we can mount him on a plaque and record the find so that we will remember the night of 28th October 2008 as a night of the re-birth of St. Andrews Church. David Lanning, Churchwarden

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Ottery Gardening Club What an afternoon we had with Les Peek as our speaker. He was so interesting and knowledgeable and then with the added bonus of a cream tea afterwards, it made a very enjoyable afternoon.With sixty four people attending it was fun. Next was the AGM with our new nominees being voted onto the committee followed by tea and biscuits and later Heather Talbot from Joshua’s as our speaker. Fifty six people attended with a big thank you to everybody for making the effort. We have Chris Laxton from East Devon Produce on 12th April at 2.30pm at a cost of £2.00 which includes an afternoon tea. One last thing to mention on speakers: please amend the day quoted for Keiron Bewes talk on 8th October from Tuesday to Saturday. A typing error, you can’t get the staff nowadays! Our Spring Show is nearly here on Saturday 19th March (how time flies) and we are hoping as many people as possible will enter and attend so that we keep these important activities going. The schedules are now available from Dilly’s and anybody from one to ninety or more can enter, so go for it.The

Institute opens at 8.30am for people to arrange their exhibits and 2.15pm for spectators to arrive. Highgrove Gardens (Prince Charles’s residence) will be our first trip of the year on Friday 15th April.We have been lucky enough to get a spring visit having been in September before also two back to back tours. Although each tour last one and a half hours there is only a twenty five minute wait between starting times, and that can be used to have tea and biscuits or visit the shop for souvenirs. Some of the paths in the garden are unmade and there are cobblestones and no seating facilities so please bear this in mind but there is wheelchair access. More details will be given out nearer the date. One last thing to mention is that Membership Subscriptions are due before the end of March and the fee is still only £5.00 for the year. Future visits and events will be mentioned in the next issue of the Ottery Gazette. For more information on any of the above and to join the Gardening Club contact Joan Dalton on 01404 815082.

Go racing at Bishops Court Enjoy an exciting days racing right on your doorstep. Saturday 5th March is this years date for the Point-to-Point horse race meeting at the spectacular venue of Bishops Court. Situated at Fluxton, just outside Ottery St. Mary on the road to Tipton St. John, Bishops Court, made available by kind permission of John Carter and his family, provides one of the best racing experiences in the

South West. With some 80 runners and riders, stunning views over the entire 3-mile course, licensed refreshments, trade stands, old fashioned sweet stalls and on-course betting, there is something for everyone. At just £20 for the whole family there’s a great day out starting at 11.30am with the first of up to 10 Races. Come and enjoy the thrill and beauty of live horse racing in the glorious Otter Valley.

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Work starts on West Hill’s first play park! West Hill’s long-awaited play park is now being built. The construction and planning of the park has been a huge community effort, with a team of councillors and residents working together. Local businesses have also been very generous. Most generous of all has been West Hill resident, Craig Williams from CSW Groundworks, who is sourcing thousands of pounds worth of materials and giving an equal amount of time and labour to the scheme. With Craig’s involvement, there will be more seating, a drainage system to make the ground drier in the winter, and humps and contours in the ground to make it more fun. Craig is also creating paths between the equipment to prevent shoes from getting muddy. He deserves a large amount of credit for his generosity of spirit. The final design for the park incorporates: • a willow den village • a tree root seating/playing area • swings for older and younger children • a centrepiece treehouse, including rope net, ramp slide and pole

The ground will be attractively landscaped with contours and wildflowers and herbs, which are designed to be hardy enough to withstand regular trampling and picking. There will be provision for a zip wire which will be added at a later date. The Playbuilder Government funding is aimed at 8-13 year olds as this is the age group most in need of play park equipment, however, we also intend to provide more facilities for younger children, as soon as we are in a position to do so.” The park itself will be built by Alastair Guy, the creator of

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much of the equipment at Escot Park, such as the pirate ship. Aside from Craig Williams, special thanks must go to the following individuals and organisations for their work in making West Hill’s play park become a reality: District Councillor, Ray Bloxham, Ottery St Mary Town Council,

Halls Estate Agents, Travis Perkins,Westcountry Milk,West Hill Play Park Committee and West Hill Village Hall Committee. The work will be complete by 31st March. Pictured above: At the turf cut in early February with members of the community who have been involved.

We need your talent! Would you be interested in taking part in our Talent Show? It will be held on Saturday June 4th at The Institute (time yet to be confirmed). We are looking for a variety of short performances (no more than 20 mins) from different community groups within our town. We would also be happy to hear from any individuals who would be willing to perform. Rehearsing would have to be done in the participant’s own time and venue, but we will have a practice run at approximately 2pm on the day. We can provide lighting, but any props will be the responsibility of the participants. The focus of the event will be to provide a fun and entertaining show that highlights our wealth of local talent that sees different age groups working together and gives publicity to the community groups involved. This event is being organised in order to raise money for Ottery Carnival Royalty, but there will be no entry fee for participants. If you feel able to support us in any way please contact Toni Hiscocks on 811636 (hiscocks@toniandalfie.plus.com) Mary Batten-Stevens on 815188 (mbattenstevens@yahoo.com) Please return your registration forms to the Ottery Tourist Information Office by 29th April 2011.

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The King’s School graded Campaign to tackle obesity as ‘Outstanding’ by OfSTED

The King’s School, Ottery St Mary has been officially graded as ‘Outstanding’ at a recent OfSTED inspection. In a letter issued to students, parents and carers Chair of Governors Mr Edward Bloomfield said: “We are delighted to now be able to publish the outcomes of the recent February 2011 OfSTED inspection. OfSTED has officially graded the school as Outstanding. “The Governors would like to thank all of the students and their parents for their unwavering support over the last three years since the last inspection which has led to this fantastic result. Staff, past and present, have worked incredibly hard since the last inspection when the school was judged as Good with Outstanding features, to reach the point where we are now judged as Outstanding overall. The Governors would also like to acknowledge the outstanding leadership of the Senior Team in helping to take the school on this journey. “It was so rewarding to hear the Lead Inspector in his feed-

back describe the ethos of the school as: “Achievement for All is not just a strap line here, it runs through everything the school does and is truly at the very heart of the school which is why the pupils show such strong academic and personal development. This school is all about raising childrens’ aspirations”. “I believe firmly that the opening sentence in the actual report represents everything the school has been striving to achieve: ‘The King’s School is an outstanding school that not only allows students to reach high academic standards, but also to develop into confident, articulate, caring and mature young adult’”. “Although we are obviously all elated at this outcome we are not complacent and will use this OfSTED report as a platform to continue to build on the work we do in the future. Once again congratulations to everyone but in particular to the students who have earned this glowing accolade.” Congratulations to The King’s School, its staff and its students. You are a credit and an asset to Ottery St Mary.

A campaign launches this week to get the people of Ottery St Mary working together to tackle obesity in the town after a national survey revealed that people who are overweight often suffer humiliation and embarrassment and have low confidence and low self esteem, all of which seriously affect their everyday lives. Experts acknowledge that waist measurement, as well as weight, is an indicator of an individual’s health. With an ‘at risk’ waist measurement of more than 88cm for women and 102cm for men, results of the survey show that 41% of people in Devon and the surrounding area are in danger of developing severe health problems. In a similar campaign run in communities across the whole of the UK last year, slimmers in Devon lost an incredible 2,495 stone in 12 weeks. Now local slimming expert Dawn Carter whose Slimming World group is based in the heart of the community at Ottery St Mary Football Club every Monday at 7pm. is pledging to help even more people whose happiness and wellbeing are being affected by worries about their weight. She says: “For many people, being overweight has become a way of life and although they

often feel guilty and unhappy with themselves, they’ve come to accept these feelings just as part of the life they have.That’s certainly how I was before I found Slimming World. Let’s Beat Obesity Together in Ottery St Mary is here to show that it doesn’t have to be like that. Losing weight and keeping it off really is possible, and you don’t have to starve or deprive yourself to succeed. “The members of my group lose weight by making small lifestyle changes. We have 40 members in the group, men and women, and they’ve all pledged to make this year’s Let’s Beat Obesity Together in Ottery St Mary campaign better than ever. ” Anyone who joins their local Slimming World group between 28th February and 12th March and purchases a 12-week Countdown to take part in the Let’s Beat Obesity Together challenge will get FREE membership and two weeks free attendance in a ‘Pay for 10 get 2 weeks free’ offer - representing a total saving of £19.90. For more information about Let’s Beat Obesity Together or the sponsored Slimathon call Dawn on 075450 43059 or visit www. slimmingworld.com

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2011 Spanish Courses The Spanish classes organised by Josefina Gori, held at Ottery Town Council Offices, have proved extremely popular again and will continue in 2011.The programme has been tailored to cover the needs and requirements of those interested in learning the language for the first time and also those who have progressed in their knowledge of the language and their communication skills and want to continue. Monday 7.00pm to 9.00pm - Hablando En Espanol A course for students with a good knowledge of the lang-uage wishing to improve their conversational skills. Want to learn how to speak like a native? Then this is the course for you. Tuesday 7.00pm to 9.00pm - ¿Como Se Dice….? A course for absolute begin-ners specifically designed to enable you to learn quickly with a minimum of effort. Wednesday 10.00am to 12.00pm - El Toro Dos A course for students at inter-mediate level.The saga of “El Toro” will continue during this term and we will be able to finally know who “El Toro” is. Wednesday 1.00pm to 3.00pm - No Comprendo A beginners course for those wanting to take it easy at “siesta time” but still learn quickly. Wednesday 7.00pm to 9.00pm - Puedo Hablar Espanol A course for students at intermediate level. Just the course for those wanting to consolidate their knowledge of the language and discover how much more they know. Free coffee and tea facilities during the two hours sessions.We provide all the material necessary during the course. Recordings from TVE (Spanish television) will be shown periodically using the audio-visual facilities at the Council Offices. Competitive fees. For more information please contact Josefina Gori at: 01297 23777, 01404 811583 / 07941 459441 or e-mail: ftnsy62@aol.com

Ladies Netball Players Wanted Do you wish to join us to play netball? We are a small group of ladies looking for more players for a fun, not serious, 1 hour session for anyone aged 11-100. We play on Wednesdays at 7.00pm at the Colin Tooze Sports Centre, Ottery St Mary. Come and join us! For more details phone Caroline on 01404 815910.

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OTTERY PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS

The roof is on! We now have new contractors working away on the playgroup building and recently the roof and windows were put in place. With the building all but water tight, work can start in earnest on the interior of the building. Completion is scheduled for 22nd April, so hopefully we can welcome the playgroup in the summer term. Many of the children throughout the school have been representing us in local events. Year 6 children attended the Hockey Festival held at the Kings School wnere they performed really well against other local schools.Year 2 soon followed their older counterparts up to Kings to take part in the Potted Sports Tournament. Both sets of children proved to be perfect ambassadors for the school while enjoying themselves at the same time. Many thanks to the children and teachers for taking part so well.We were also represented by individuals at the recent Rotary Music Even-ing and the children who attended that event also entertained the school during assembly just before the half-term break. It would appear that Ottery does indeed have talent, and plenty of it!

In the run up to the Easter break, some Year 6 pupils will be attending a Pupil Voice Conference run by East Devon District Council. The conference allows pupils from many primary schools to come together and share their ideas for the future of the area. I am sure they will be full of good ideas and will have no trouble getting them across. Speaking of ideas, the School Council have been busy organising all kinds of things in school. School Council News Our new Chairperson, Eve has been ably assisted by the rest of the Council in organising fundraising to help children and families in Africa to ontain access to clean water and sanitory conditions.They have been busy selling entry sheets for a design-a-bottle competition and have organised a sponsored obstacle event when the children return to school.They even led an assembly all about the ideas which I’m sure they found nerve-wrackingAs well as their charity work, the Council have also organised litter duty rotas in school to help keep the place looking clean and tidy. Hopefully next month they will be able to tell you how it all went themselves. Mark Gilronan

Witchfinder - a new musical premier for New Ottregians It is 1612 and Jacobean England is still reeling from the Gunpowder Plot of several years earlier, and the implications it has for the people, and more importantly, the Monarchy. The country has also been tainted by the intrigue surrounding Demonology, and specifically Witchcraft. Although not the scourge of the country as is the popular myth, it infested parts of Europe. Against this backdrop, Witchfinder introduces the story of two young lovers from different classes, backgrounds and worlds, thrust together in a melting-pot of politics and suspicion, fuelled by fear and an over-zealous desire to hunt down the evil-doers, whether they exist or not. As you may have read in February’s issue of the Gazette, Ottery’s Health Store closed its doors on 26th February under the management of a very special lady, Vanessa Coxon. It has been a privilege to have had the opportunity to take over the store and to work alongside Vanessa during the past 6 months. That time has enabled me to get to know the trade and the clientele who have been very kind about me taking over the business. So what changes will you find? In principle, the whole idea and ethos stays the same with the addition of a specialised delicounter which will provide a cheese selection from local West Country producers. The key suppliers for this will be West Country cheeses in Topsham and Northworthy Goats dairy, which many of you will know from the farmers market each month. In addition the deli counter will have a selection of olives, flavoured vinegars on tap, freshly baked tarts and

Prejudice, power, love and honour all vie for supremacy in both the corridors of power in London and the simple

village life of Pendle, as they are pitted against each other in a struggle for truth and survival.

new musical, which will be staged as usual at The King’s School from 26th to 30th July.

With a powerful story, dominant characters and soaring music, Witchfinder traces the story of those affected with the tragic and heart-rending consequences painting a picture of people which is just as resonant today, encompassing life and of loss but equally, love and hope.

Rehearsals will start at the United Reformed Church Hall on Tuesday 8th March at 7.30pm, and new members are very welcome to join current members that night to hear Helena Williams, the producer, (among other roles!) introduce the words and music of what promises to be perhaps the most spectacular production in the Company’s history. Anyone wishing to know more about the company or the musical will receive a warm welcome from Toni Williams at Bagpuss Gallery in Mill Street or call 01404 814272. Toni Williams-Pugh

Following their recent successes in raising valuable funds for Hospiscare, not least with two Premieres in the past two years, The New Ottregians Theatre Music Company are extremely honoured to have been granted the performing rights for the South West premiere of this magnificent

Welcome to The Good Life

quiches as well as spelt bread rolls, scones and biscuits to enjoy in the coffee corner which will get a key place in the newly refurbished premises. Vanessa will play a key role in this by baking the goods every week on Fridays and Saturdays so you can start your weekend or finish the week with something truly special. Of course, we will continue selling fresh organic vegetables although we would like to appeal for more suppliers to be able to provide more variety to stock every week. If you know anyone or you are involved in a community project and you would like us to sell your vegetables and fruits please contact us by e mail at enquiries@thegoodlifedeli.co.uk for more details. If there are any individual items that you require we can place small orders. The same applies to bulk orders, i.e. orders per case. I have agreed to sustain the 10% discount if ordered in

bulk. Payment will be required on all orders made in advance. If there are any orders required for the opening weekend 1st April, please let us now before Friday 25th March 2011, either by email or by phone on 01404 812109. To complete the picture, the clinic remains and will be completely refurbished to meet current standards for our practitioners. The doors of The Good Life will open on Friday,

1st April 2011 at 2pm. All are welcome to come and take a look and enjoy wine and canapes etc.The store will be open until 8.00pm and on Saturday from 9am to 4.30pm. During this opening weekend we will give 10% on the whole range to say thank you to those who have been loyal and supportive. The Good Life will operate new opening hours: Monday-Friday 9.00am to 5.30pm, and Saturdays 9.00am to 4.30pm. Lea Wray

z Knife & Scissor Sharpening z Shoe Repairs / Accessories z Watch Batteries / Straps z Dry Ceaning / Duvets z Patching & Stitching z Key Cutting Service z Engraving

Tel: 01404 813088 11 MILL STREET, OTTERY ST MARY E mail: baytreeshoerepairs@googlemail.com Web: www.shoerepairsdevon.co.uk Page 9

The construction of medieval roofs Our forefathers in the medieval building industry could certainly teach us all a thing or two about constructing buildings which would stand the test of time.The timber roof structures in many of our churches and other ancient buildings were built to last, using only the typical carpenters’ tools of the period which, amazingly, have changed little over the centuries. Although after many hundreds of years, timber structures of this nature have been repaired or reconstructed, a surprising number of original timbers can still be identified. At their February meeting in the Institute, members and guests of the Ottery Heritage Society were treated to a fascinating talk on medieval roof construction, with particular reference to the roof of St Mary’s church, Ottery St Mary. Guest speaker, Simon Lowne, is a local carpenter. Although initially from Surrey, he has lived locally for a number of years. He is a chartered surveyor and a former mining engineer before developing his own business here in the South West. As is well known, Ottery St Mary church was rebuilt in the early 1300’s under the direction of Bishop Grandisson, as

With particular reference to St Mary’s Church, Ottery

part of his Ecclesiastical College. The church was modelled on Exeter Cathedral and displays the same style of Gothic vaulting in the ceiling. In order to facilitate construction of such vaulting medieval carpenters and architects devised what is known as the ‘high roof’. Exeter cathedral is often held to be the pinnacle of development for the high roof and Ottery, as originally built, shares many similarities of construction. An illustration of a rafter ‘couple’ from Ottery is shown

above. It consists of rafters, diagonal bracing and a collar. The space under a high roof is unimpeded by any tie beams running between the rafter feet and this allowed clear space for the construction of the fan vaulting. As originally built there were approximately 120 rafter couples in the roof structure. Of these only a handful survived in original position, the ravages of time and decay having required a significant rebuilding

of the roof in the early 19th century. The original timbers were all cut from oak trees of between 80 and 120 years of age which would have been grown in woodland managed specifically for the purposes of producing construction timber. The total number of trees felled to build this roof was in the region of 150, most having a girth of between 13 and 17 inches when cut.All of the roof components have numbering or ‘carpenters marks’ which are a clear indication that the structure was prefabricated in a framing yard before being brought to site for final assembly. In complete contrast to this ecclesiastical style of roof carpentry, Simon also described work undertaken on the conservation of a medieval hall ‘hammer beam’ roof at Whitestaunton in Somerset (pictured below). This required replacement of decayed timber and carving of hammer beams to replace those removed during subsequent alterations.This roof was originally constructed in approximately 1460. Heritage Society secretary, Chris Saunders, thanked the speaker for a most interesting, highly researched and well

The Man with Van STEVE Free Quotations Reasonable Rates Near or far - Large or small

Telephone: 01404 812657 Mobile: 07967 170587 e mail: manwithvan@sky.com Page 10

Coleridge Memorial Project backs poetry stones

The fan vaulted ceiling in St Mary’s Parish Church, Ottery St Mary illustrated talk which, judging from the many questions from the audience, had held their interest and attention throughout the evening. Membership of the Ottery St Mary Heritage Society is open to anyone interested in furthering the work of the Charity. Meetings are held in the Ottery St Mary Institute, usually on the third Tuesday of each month, unless advertised otherwise. Eminent speakers are invited to talk on their particular areas of

interest. These meetings are well-supported social affairs and refreshments are available. Non members are always welcome. The next meeting will be on Tuesday March 15th, when guest speaker Martin Watts will be giving an illustrated talk entitled “Mills in the East Devon Landscape,” discussing the history and technology of milling. Robert Neal Ottery Heritage Society

As anticipated, the Making It Local funding body has deferred CMPs latest bid for funds, but they suggested that CMP put in a new bid which focussed on the poetry stones idea, linked to new interpretation materials - leaflets and an exhibition. This idea was already flagged up very strongly in the public consultation that took place a year ago, so the CMP committee have now decided to push for the stones in advance of the sculpture that was the main aim of earlier bids.The importance of a sculptural centre piece has not been forgotten however, and it remains on the shopping list for future funding efforts. The current plan is to engrave Coleridge’s iconic poem “Kubla Khan” in its entirety, along the edge of the new footpath across Canaan Way recreation grounds. The stones will be or an attractive dark granite and the poem will stretch for about 70 meters along the first part of the path. A new leaflet explaining the story of Kubla Khan and its place in Coleridge’s life is in preparation and it is hoped the work will be

completed some time this year, preferably during construction of the path, but if not, then shortly afterwards. The educational gain is clear enough - but this could also be a unique artefact - possibly the longest single line of engraved poetry in the world. The Heritage Lottery will also be approached for funds for the stones, but clearly there is now a growing need for local funds to top up any grants we may achieve. The CMP website has details of our progress and an oppor-tunity to make a donation - or you can subscribe to a new booklet of Coleridge’s amusing side - entitles Cole-ridge Sauce, it is due for publi-cation around Easter time this year. This is a chance to invest in Ottery’s future, and anyone who has Ottery at heart should be involved in supporting CMPs efforts. For more details please visit www.coleridgememorial.org.uk regularly to keep abreast of developments. Chris Wakefield Chairman CMP

To place Advertising or free editorial matter for your club or organisation in the Gazette please call 01404 815111

Every Sunday at The King’s School main hall at 10.30 For a time of worship, teaching and Sunday School groups for the children. Also midweek home groups and a Youth Group meets every Friday night at the Chapel in Yonder Street. All are welcome to come along to any of our meetings. For more details do contact Bruce and Heather Talbot on 01404 850900 or email info@newlifeottery.org.uk New Life Church is part of Churches Together in Ottery.

www.newlifeottery.org.uk Page 11

Talatones Handbell Ringers

What fun we had at the Brownies meeting in the United Reform Church Hall. I think they enjoyed it as much as we did. They were so interested in the bells and the history of them. After we had played a few tunes they came and had ago and we may have talent for the future so let’s hope they come along occasionally to visit us and take up playing handbells. Our next visits are to Rockbeare in April and Whimple in May and believe it or not we have a future concert in January 2012. It is nice to be so popular. All are welcome and if you would like more information please contact Joan Dalton on 01404 815082.

West Country Embroiderers

This month at the meeting of the West Country Embroiderers Carol Tanner showed members how to stitch Sashiko quilting. This is a form of Japanese quilting that was used to pad or patch their traditional garments. It is a simple straight stitch quilting. Last month Ann Holden demonstrated “stitch and cut back”. This involved layers of materials and the design was stitched around the outline and the centre part cut away to show the colour underneath, rather like a stained glass window. Samples of both these items will be shown in the exhibition to be held in May at the Institute. Anyone interested in joining the group, or coming to see what we do, please contact Pat Snelling on 01404 812226 to make arrangements. The group meet on the first Monday of the month at The Institute, Ottery St Mary.

EAT OUT from AT THE

£5

TALATON INN Tel: 01404 822214 Menu Changes Weekly 2 COURSE LUNCH SPECIAL Main Course and Pudding or Coffee - £5.00 Sunday Lunch from £5.75 Bookings advisable Friday and Saturday evenings Play a game of skittles and enjoy a Buffet - menus start at just £2.95 per person Where are we? Follow the old or new A30 to Fairmile junction, and follow the signs to Talaton. Cheers! Page 12

Enjoy Lambing Sunday at Bicton College Have a go at some exciting, unusual activities at Bicton College Lambing Sunday at Bicton Home Farm on 20th March from 11am to 4pm. Take a tractor and trailer ride to the Farm to see the lambs, calves and afternoon milking. Feed a new born lamb and have a Bicton beef burger or hotdog. For older children, there is Crate Stacking in the barn. Earth Fair - have-a-go on solar powered cars and traditional fun with a Coconut Shy and test your strength with the hammer to ring the bell. Bug Encounters - test your nerve handling crunchy cockroaches and sticky giant stick insects. On the Main College site there is more to see and do including Dog Show and Dog Agility, Countryside camp, Mad about machines, Climbing wall, Mini trikes, Leaf blower assault course, Lake activities, High and low ropes courses, Felt making, Laser metal cutting, Horse

weighing and 24 hour tractor rebuild.Visit E3 cafe for homemade soup, cakes, hot drinks and plant sales or have a two course carvery in the restaurant. We are privileged at Bicton College to have the facilities and the expertise to be able to create a magical day for our community. We are sure that you will have a great time and thank you for your continued support. Entry Adult £5, child £2.50, Family group £12 (2 adults and 2 children) Bicton reminds people that women who are, or might be, pregnant, should not enter the lambing areas because of the danger of Toxoplasmosis. Dogs on a lead are allowed on the main campus, but NOT at the farm. For more information call 01395 562300 or the website www.bicton.ac.uk

Youth Art Competition If you are aged between 10 – 17 and love to paint or draw or if you work in 3D, you could win the opportunity to exhibit your work by entering a local Youth Art Competition organised by Otter Vale Art Society.The exhibition will be held at the Institute, Ottery St Mary on 5th to 14th August 2011. Alan Cotton, internationally acclaimed artist will be judging and is also offering a unique opportunity for winners to spend a day in his studio learning more about art. There will be great prizes awarded to the first three winners in the 2 following age groups: 10-13 year olds and 14-17 year olds. Parents must accompany children submitting work. The exhibition will be open to the public daily, but your work is needed by June.....so get painting now! Apply for an application form either by calling 01395 597221 or e mail sidburymill@btconnect.com

HONITON U3A DIARY DATES

March 16th AGM. Followed by free Cream Teas at 2.15pm at the British Legion Hall, Dowell Street, Honiton. New members always welcome. For more details call 01404 823160.

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Telephone: 01404 813318 Mobile: 07771 645464 Jesmond, Ridgeway, Ottery St Mary EX11 1DT

Ottery St Mary Vision OM

The daffodils are coming out – a sure that Spring is on it’s way. We shall be so pleased to be able totake trips out of Ottery. We do tend to hold our winter meetings at the Institute as it is hard to forecast the weather. However, come April, we shall be venturing further afield. On 31st March we are arranging a speaker and in April we are having lunch at the Pavilion in Exmouth. We so like this venue as there is the possibility, weather permitting, of taking the sea breezes along the prom for those that wish to do this. Otherwise, we can sit and chat in the Pavilion. This winter has seemed a long one and we have sadly lost one of our members. Margaret will be missed. Our founder, Mrs. Anne Decent, is taking a well earned rest from the day to day running of Vision Om. We will divide the various tasks between us, but will still have Anne to guide us. Any new members are still very welcome and if you are interested we meet the last Thursday afternoon at 2.00pm in each month at the Institute. Please ring Mary 01404 813176 or Kay 01404 815001.

People needed for survey to investigate diabetes The Peninsular Medical School in Exeter is looking for people to take part in a survey to investigate the underlying causes of diabetes, a common and increasing condtition in today’s society. 10,000 people are required, of which 4000 have already been recruited. Volunteers of any age over 18 are welcome, whether or not they are diabetic.They will be sent a simple form to fill in, asking for details of their medical history, diet and lifestyle, and asked to attend for a 30 minute appointment at the Medical School. During the appointment blood and urine samples will be taken. All the information will be treated with the strictest confidence, and will not be given to anybody else. This is a very easy and worthwhile way to help in an important research project at very little personal inconvenience. For further details, please telephone 01392 406769 / 406815 or e-mail crf@pms.ac.uk

Discover the Tree Trail and Bird Box Weekend at Escot March introduces two new events at Escot! Springing off with the Escot Tree Trail, in time for the National Tree week commencing the 7th March. Follow the trail and discover all the magnificent tree species on the Escot estate. Why stop at learning about tree species? Book in for the Family Bird Box Making event! Families will have the opportunity of learning more about the native birds and getting creative making their own bird boxes with the guidance of Escot’s Nature Rangers! Morning and afternoon sessions are available with a brief introduction to wild birds and how

BIRDS

to encourage them into your garden, fun information sheets about what birds to keep your eyes open for during Spring and how to care for your bird box when you take it home with you at the end of the day! Hopefully your new bird box will encourage a variety of birds to breed in your garden! Escot’s Bird Box Weekend will take place on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th March. Booking is essential so please call Escot on 01404 822188 or email us for further details: kerry@escot-devon.co.uk Numbers are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

CLUES Playwrights

Cheeky chappies

Pieces of string

Centres

ESCOT’S BIRD BOXES WORD LADDER

WIN A FAMILY DAY TICKET (2 ADULTS AND 2 CHILDREN) TO ESCOT PARK! The word ladder is a sequence of words formed by changing just one letter on each step. For example: CAT - COT - DOT - DOG. Using the clues shown, fill in the words between ‘Birds’ and ‘Boxes’. Simply fill in the word ladder left using the clues provided. Then send in your answer together with your name and address either by letter to Lisa Benton, Escot Ltd, Escot Park. Ottery St Mary EX11 1LU, or by email to: escot@escot-devon.co.uk (if you are entering the competition via email, please include your full name & postal address). Answers must arrive by 31st March 2011. The first five correct answers drawn will each receive a family day ticket to Escot. Conditions apply. Call 01404 822188 for full details.

Name.................................................................................................................... Little rowers

BOXES

Address................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................... Telephone............................................................................................................ Page 13

Free cat neutering for a limited period The East Devon Branch of Cats Protection is offering free neutering for your cat if you are a resident with one of the following post codes: EX5, EX8, EX9, EX10, EX11, EX12, EX13, EX15, EX16, EX24, TA20, DT6 DT7. You will need to contact your nearest participating Veterinary Surgery to make an appointment. They are: Ikin & Oxenham, Veterinary Surgeons, Ottery St Mary. Tel: 01404 814322. Cranbrook Veterinary Centre, Rockbeare. Tel: 01404 823423. The Vale Veterinary, Whimple. Tel: 01884 35558. Last year the East Devon Branch alone took in nearly 200 unwanted kittens. We could have taken in many more but we had neither the room nor the volunteers to care for them. Many of the kittens we were unable to take in will have died in pain and misery or will have been abandoned to become long term strays. This is why we are launching our Free Neutering Campaign to encourage people to get their cats neutered before this year’s kittening season begins. Cats can be neutered from 4 months of age and as a female

Marmaduke - now happy in his new home

cat can become pregnant at 5 months old it is important to book you cat in as soon as possible. Neutering is a safe procedure which has become commonplace in veterinary practices for over 30 years. There are many other reasons for having your cat neutered. Neutered cats cost less to feed and are less likely to get sick or injured. Neutering also reduces a cat’s likelihood to roam, fight, spray and catch certain diseases such as FIV and FELV. They are also less likely to get certain cancers. Un-neutered Toms will be attracted to your home when your un-neutered female is in season. So please take advantage of our offer and ring a participating vet as soon as possible. For participating vets in other post code areas that differ from those shown above call Steph on 01297 22085.

EAST DEVON BRANCH www.eastdevoncats.com

All our cats and kittens are flead, wormed, vaccinated, microchipped and, if over 5 months old, neutered. We also help with neutering costs for the kittens we home.

BILLY

BILLY (pictured left) is a very affectionate 11 year old semi long haired grey boy and SMOKEY is a very friendly 9 year old grey boy. They are staying at our foster home near Tipton St. John. Tel: 01395 577334 TUFTY (pictured below) is a very friendly 12 year old ginger & white boy and TIGGY is a rather timid but gentle 7 year old black girl. They are both staying at our foster home in Sidford. Tel 01395 515601.

Please join us at St. Francis’ Church Hall, Woolbrook on Saturday March 12th from 10am – 12 noon for our coffee morning. AND At our Cats Protection Charity Shop re-opening in Sidmouth on Saturday March 5th at11.30 am. To be opened by Judi Spiers of TUFTY Radio Devon For more information and for General Enquiries call 01404 811089. For Neutering Advice and help with Neutering Costs for those eligible Call 01297 22085 If you have lost or found a cat please call - 01297 21610

Page 14

Moving home? Moving something? Moving away? Moving home. It really can be a stressful experience, something that both Paul Richardson and Kevin Turner, partners at Avid Move have experienced in the last few years.That’s why after a few years away from the industry they have decided to start their new business.Their goal? To make the experience as stress fee as possible. So what do they do and why are they different? Well everything from a single man and a van service to a UK wide home move service. The ethos being it doesn’t matter if it is just a sofa that needs moving to the other side of town, a house clearance with fragile antiques or a home move to another part of the country. The level of service will be the same and the price just as competitive. In fact on their website they offer a unique service guarantee ranging from discounts for late arrival, to a “job for free”. As partner Paul Richardson said, “It’s something we are prepared to offer because we are confident we will never have to use it!” Based locally just outside Ottery St Mary, they have new 3.5 tonne luton vans with tail lifts as well as comprehensive goods in transit and public liability insurance. Every job is unique so they are equipped with

a range of specialist packaging materials as well as piano trolleys, dust sheets etc, - in fact everything that you could need (including a friendly smile!) to make any move, however big or small, a stress free experience. So why not give them a call or drop them an email? For more information call 01404 38400 or visit www.avidmove.co.uk. One of the things they supply their customers moving home is a ‘don’t forget to contact list’ that we have included here – you never know you might find it useful! Moving? Don’t forget to tell them! Personal Contacts: Family, Friends, Colleagues, Employer. Local Services: Milk and Paper Delivery, Library, School, Gym, Social Club Financial Services: Bank & Building Society, Insurance Companies, Credit Card Companies Government Agencies: Local Council, Inland Revenue, DVLA. Health Services: NHS, Doctor, Dentist ,Optician,Vet Utilities: Electricity, Gas, Water, Internet Service Provider, Landline/Mobile Phone Companies, Royal Mail, TV Licence,TV Service Providers.

OTTERY ST MARY CARNIVAL

EASTER BINGO

At Ottery St Mary Football Club on Sunday 10th April. Eyes down 8.00pm Transport available: contact Steve Pearcy on 01404 811335

D.I.Y. TIP OF THE MONTH

BY CHRIS ABBOTT

Bag a bargain at Bits & Bobs

Problems with ‘Compliance’ Paints Hello and welcome to March’s Tip of the Month Column. In the ‘DIY world’ there is a lot of confusion regarding ‘trim’ paints which are gloss or satin paints for wood and metal surfaces. Basically, due to new legislation these paints which are traditionally solvent based, have to reduce their VOC level (Volatile Organic Compounds) which contributes to atmospheric pollution. As a result, a lot of paints and wood preservers are switching from the traditional solvent based paint, to a water based paint. The problem that customers are finding is that, say for example, a tin of Dulux Satinwood that they purchased last year, will not do the same thing as a tin purchased this year. That is because the new water based topcoat will not ‘sit’ on top of a solvent based undercoat. It simply will not adhere and will peel off. Like I said earlier, there is a lot of confusion out there with these new ‘compliance paints’ and a lot of people have been badly advised on these. Abbotts is a Dulux Colour and Advice Centre (the only one in Devon), and as a result we have been sent this up to date information from Dulux which

applies to their products only. “On bare surfaces use two coats of Dulux primer/undercoat (water based), and then one coat of the water based Satinwood or eggshell finish paints. “The general rule of thumb is that water based paints will not go on top of solvent based paints, but, if for example, you are recoating a surface that was painted using a solvent based paint that is a few years old, then you will be able to over coat with a water based paint providing you lightly sand the surface to remove the sheen, and then apply one coat of primer/ undercoat to adhere to the surface, before applying your water based top coat. If the surface is freshly painted in solvent based paint, then the paint will need to be sanded right back or possibly removed prior to applying the water based paint.” I hope this makes some kind of sense! For specific information and the correct advice come and see us in store.You will also find that our range of Dulux paints are very, very competitively priced against the DIY superstores. And we will make sure you have the right paint, for the right job!

Bits & Bobs, another new Ottery business, opened its doors for trading on Monday 7th February. The £1 and Discount shop is located in Jesu Street (formerly Wendy’s Greengrocers). Proprietor Richard said: “Basically, we are selling items that cost a lot more elsewhere for £1, 2 for £1 and some at 3 for £1. Our stock includes items ranging from food stuffs to pet food and we have a great range of discounted puzzle books. We also have a range of top brand cosmetics that are less than half RRP and a lovely range of Fair-trade jewellery. In time we will be bringing even more stock to the shop and selling things to the public at discounted prices. We plan to stock the shop until we can’t fit any more in! “The shop has already been very well received by people who have found us and we already have many regulars who think the business is a good idea - which is really encouraging for us and we would like to thank them for spreading the word! We would also like to thank other shop keepers in the town for displaying our posters. They have been so encouraging.” Richard and his wife Emma, who live in Ottery, had previously been making cushions and selling them various markets twice a week. They decided to open the shop in town to be close to Emma’s mother who became very ill and needs them to be close to home. Richard and Emma took foward to seeing more new customers. Pop soon and grab yourself a bargain!

Is there a DIY problem, that you would like to see answered in this column? If so or if you have any other comments relating to this column visit the Tip of the Month page on the all new Abbotts website www.abbottsdiy.com

PAYHEMBURY SPRING BULB AND FLOWER SHOW

Payhembury Spring Bulb and Flower Show (the 48th Open) will be held on Saturday 19th March 2011 in the Parish Hall, Payhembury. Doors Open at 4:30 pm to 6.15pm. For more information please contact Mrs Pat Holdaway on 01404 841816 or e mail: patholdaway@btinternet.com

LOGS FOR SALE Seasoned Hardwood Great Value and Quality Free Local Delivery 01404 813026 or 07909 524526

Page 15

LION’S CORNER

As I reported in the last edition, we were going to hold the belated wheelbarrow raffle near to St Valentine’s Day. This was held on Saturday 12th February in Honiton, and was won by Sue Broom of Honiton. Photographs of her and other items of interest can be found on our newly established web site, which is contactable on www.honitonlions.org.uk. Lion Bob Francis has put a great deal of work in getting this website up and running, and it is well worth a visit in order to view its regular updates and photographs. I did mention that we were in the semi final of the District Skittles. We won this against Clevedon Lions Club, and now have to play the final which is against Okehampton Lions Club. This game will decide which team with be presented with cup at the District Convention at Torquay in March. We recently presented Honiton Brownies with some money with which to purchase equipment. Some of us went along

to one of their meetings in order to have our photograph taken with them. We may look a bit out of place, but they made us very welcome. Support of local organisations is one of the main objects of the Lions movement, and several of them have benefited over the years. We normally meet at The Deer Park Hotel at Weston near Honiton, but this is closed for re-furbishment, so at the moment we are ‘homeless’. Several of our members and their ladies attended the Seaton Lions Club Annual Charter Anniversary held at the Dolphin Hotel at Beer. We had a

very enjoyable evening, and met many old friends. Our Charter Anniversary will be held at the Tumbling Weir Hotel, Ottery St Mary, on Saturday 14th May. Don’t forget our ‘Friends of the Lions’ scheme,

which you can join for just £5. For this you will receive a newsletter, and will be able to take part in our Social activities etc. I am Bill King and can be contacted on 01404 813513, or lion.bill@btinternet.com

Singers wanted!

Ottery Chorale is a community choir looking for new members, especially tenors and basses, to join and take part in a concert to be performed at Ottery St Mary Parish Church on Saturday 30th April 2011. Rehearsals are held at the United Reformed Church 7.30pm - 9.30pm on Fridays on a weekly basis until the concert. Conducted by Ben Scott, Ottery Chorale will be performing choral pieces by Widor,Vierne, Dupré, Franck, Bellenot, Fauré, Bairstow and Stanford. All abilities are welcome. If you have any questions or would like to join us, please contact Sandra Chapman on 01404 814528 or 07863 325415.

The Gallery @ Hind Street We have NEW Wood Sculptures and various artists exhibiting in March

Traditional & Contemporary Framing of the Highest Quality. Hand Finished by Qualified Artist/Craftsmen.

Regular Exhibitions of work from Established and Up Coming Artists and Sculptors. Page 16

We are highly expert in the complete framing process, all framing work carried out on the premises. We also offer complete oil painting restoration WE CAN FRAME ALMOST ANYTHING!!

BBC’s DIY SOS comes to the rescue of an Ottery family By Ian Osprey BBC Editorial Researcher ‘DIY SOS: The Big Build’ is the BBC’s flagship DIY show and attracts around 6 million viewers in its prime time slot on BBC One. Presented by Nick Knowles, the show is an hour long programme in which we take on really ambitious builds to help out truly deserving families. We are filming the fourth episode of our 22nd series in Ottery St Mary where we will be helping the Wright family (consisting of Mum, Dad and their three sons).The three boys (ages 7, 9 and I1) are currently sharing one bedroom as the family live in a two bedroom bungalow! The Wrights started work on a small extension and loft conversion back in February 2009 but a run of bad luck has severely hampered their progress with the build. Dad (Ian) has had to take on all of the labour himself (with the occasional helping hand from his good friend John) as they don’t have the money to employ trades.Whilst all the work lan’s done is of an excellent standard, he just doesn’t have the time or the experience to complete such a massive build. But still he soldiers on.

Mum (Morny) suffers with chronic M.E and is unable to help with the build. She is being treated for depression because of the state of the house. On top of the build she has also had to nurse her mother through breast cancer and has suffered the death of her estranged father.Their youngest son Casper also has severe behavioural problems which has made life very difficult living in the shell of a small bungalow. It is a case of many cuts have made them weaker.They are in a terrible situation and have endured the winter with only half a roof and missing an external wall! The family are at

breaking point. ‘DIY SOS’ is their only hope. We feel that they represent hard working families who take on these projects with only the best intentions for their family but for reasons beyond their control things don’t work out as planned and they find themselves in dire straights. With the help of the local community and the generosity of local trades people, we’re going to finish the build.This will give the boys the rooms they need for their personal development and will lift the burden from Mum and Dad’s shoulders. Ian and Morny are integral mem-

bers of their community and it is their dream to start a music group for the children in the area. (See panel below left). Ian was a founding member of ‘Stage by Stage’ in Exeter and would like to replicate its success here in Ottery St Mary. By completing the build we will give them the time to do this and ultimately leave a lasting legacy for the family and the community. Pictured above: Members of the DIY SOS team (left to right): Charlie Luxton, Mark Millar, julian Perryman, Billy Byrne, Chris Frediani, Nick Knowles, Mat Skelton.

OTTERY MUSIC GROUP

CALLING ALL YOUNG MUSICIANS

FREE SAMBA

At Ottery St Mary Primary School on Saturdays from 10.00 to 11.00am Learn to play Polyrhythms in a large group using Samba instruments. All ages welcome. Call Ian Wright on 07833 624074

Sean Harris z WINDOW CLEANER z GUTTERS/FACIAS CLEANED z HOUSE/PATIO PRESSURE CLEANING UNDERTAKEN (Excellent references if required)

For that personal service call 01404 814963 or Mobile: 07737 419077 75 Slade Close, Ottery St Mary, Devon EX11 1SY Page 17

Readers Write Cormorant caught poaching in river Dear Sir, On my journey from Fairmile to Ottery I passed over the River Otter. A splash in the water caught my eye and to my suprise I saw a cormorant. I watched it for a minute or two before it swam downstream and flew away. Has anyone else seen this bird poaching? David Mitchem, Clyst Hydon

A Tribute to the Jasmine Amid the season’s taxing moods When nature’s pulse was low I knew someone in the garden would Arrange a cheering show. Would organise a bright display By setting up a stall With yellow blossoms every day Against a sheltering wall. Contrasting with the background grey It made a welcome sight, As if an artist touched a dark scene With a brush of light. While other shrubs are fast asleep I’m glad the jasmine’s here To lift our flagging spirits up Above surrounding drear. DERRICK V. RUGG

Ottery Bowling Club Coffee Morning Ottery St Mary Bowling Club will be holding their popular Hot Cross Bun/ Coffee morning at the Institute, Ottery St Mary, on Saturday 2nd April from 10.00am till 12.00pm. There will be the opportunity to browse along the stalls,enter competitions and chat with your friends over coffee. There are a few remaining stalls for hire at £5 00. Ring 01404 811195 for more details.

Busy Otters Pre-school News We have got some exciting theme based activities in store for the children over the next few weeks which include ‘Post Office,’ ‘The Woods’ and ‘The Garage’. We will be creating some hand print trees and leaf rubbings, together with junk modelling with boxes, creating tyre tracks on paper and having road signs around the playground. To raise money for Comic Relief the children will be participating in a sponsored hop, or jump, around the playground. We will also be doing some red nose painting on Red Nose Day. The Busy Otters building project on the Primary School site is progressing well with the building now watertight with the roof in place and windows and doors fitted. The staff are

looking forward to visiting the building soon and we are all excited about the move. Busy Otters currently runs at The Old Boys School in Yonder Street. We offer pre-school places for children from 2 years 6 months, up until they begin school. Sessions are Monday – Friday 9.30 – 12 noon. Afternoon sessions are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 12.45 – 3.15pm. We also have Lunch Club on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Toddler sessions for the under 5’s are on Thursday afternoons, 1pm – 2.45pm. £2 per family. For further information please ring 01404 815370 or email busyotters@googlemail.com. Check out our website at www.busyotters.co.uk

Jumble Sale success Ottery St. Mary Scout Group Mammoth Jumble Sale is over for another year! We had two very successful weekends with huge support from both far and near. The Group would like to thank the people of Ottery for once again so generously donating so many items to be sold. Thanks also go to the large number of people who came on both weekends looking for bargains. A donation from the Jumble Sale is to be given to the B.B.C. Radio Devon Air Ambulance appeal. On a slightly less positive note, the success of the two weekends were marred by the theft of one of our purpose designed advertising boards, taken from the gate of the Millennium Green. As a result, some of the hard earned funds raised will have to be spent on a new board for next year’s Jumble Sale - an unnecessary expense caused through somebody’s stupidity. Mary Moore, Organiser

Flower Club Diary Dates

HASTINGS ROOFING

Flat Roof Specialist D A VID HASTINGS z Fully Insured z Over 25 Years experience z Free Estimates

Telephone: 01404 814517 Mobile: 07866 433446 anytime Page 18

Ottery St Mary Flower Club will be holding the following meetings to be held on Wednesdays at Ottery St Mary Primary School, starting at 7.30pm.Vistors would be most welcome. 16th March - Demonstrator Pat Penno from Launceston 27th April - Demonstrator Sarah Hills-Ingyon from Sidford 18th May - Demonstrator Alison Penno from Launceston 15th June - Demonstrator Sheila Hadlow from Par 20th July - Demonstrator Tina Parkes from Exeter

Jeanette Freeman Custom Made Curtains and Soft Furnishings

Unit C1, Westleigh Willows Farm, Feniton, Honiton, Devon EX14 3BN Telephone: 01404 851027

Nomination for ‘Mayor’s Charity of the Year 2011’

VOTING FORM FOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR 2011

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