If you’re reading this, you’re holding the very first issue of Rural Reach, a magazine created especially for the villages of Northern Devon and Torridgeside My name’s Graham Harris, and after years of previously running the North Devon Gazette and now publisher of the Ilfracombe Magazine, I’ve seen firsthand how a good local magazine can bring people together, support small businesses, and keep everyone in the loop about what’s happening on their doorstep. The idea behind Rural Reach is simple: to help rural communities like yours stay connected In our beautiful, scattered villages, it’s all too easy to miss out on local events, news, or the services of a trusted local tradesperson Rural Reach aims to bridge that gap, delivering a reliable monthly round-up of what’s going on, who’s offering what, and how you can get involved, right to your letterbox.
But this magazine can only be as strong as the community behind it. That’s where you come in I’m on the lookout for local stories, events, and news from every village we serve. Whether you’re running a coffee morning, hosting a charity fundraiser, or want to share a local success story, I’d love to hear from you If you’re a keen writer, photographer, or someone who simply loves village life, your contributions would be invaluable
Even better, I’d love to find a “community champion” in each of the 19 areas we deliver to, someone with their ear to the ground who can help share what’s happening locally. If you think you could be the voice for your village, please get in touch.
We’re also looking to build a team of local distributors. If you fancy a regular monthly round, delivering Rural Reach to your neighbours and earning a bit of extra income,
let me know. Ideally, I’d love to see each village have its own distributor, keeping things local and personal.
Rural Reach is here to serve you, and with your help, it can become a real asset for every home in our patch. If you have news to share, want to get involved, or are interested in becoming a distributor or community champion, please drop me a line Together, we can make sure no one misses out on what makes our rural communities special.
Due to the task that we have undertaken to spread this magazine to 19 rural locations and over 4,000 homes delivery was always going to be a challenge as are deadlines. I would suggest that we think ahead so if you have an event in December we should publish it in November This gives me the time to pull the magazine together and fingers crossed our new distributors the chance to deliver in a timely fashion If you have any suggestions about content, please don’t hesitate to get in touch You can call the office on 01271 326694 or email ruralreach@boomboommedia.co.uk
Warm regards,
Graham Harris
Publisher, Rural Reach Magazine
Rural Reach is not liable for services provided by advertisers or for inaccuracies within this publication. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage due to errors or omissions. Reproduction of content without our prior permission is prohibited.
RHS Garden Rosemoor has introduced a new paw-friendly walking guide and facilities for dogs as part of its ongoing ‘Paws on Paths’ pilot, running every Monday to Wednesday until 17 September
To help visitors keep their dogs cool during the summer heat, a new leaflet now highlights shady routes across the 65-acre site near Great Torrington, North Devon. The map includes a shorter, fully accessible route for those seeking easier or quicker walks. As part of the pilot, dogs must stay on paths and off lawns to protect planting and preserve the visitor experience for families. Recognising the challenges of summer heat, extra watering points have been installed, and access to catering areas has been expanded Dogs and their owners can now relax at additional tables on the main restaurant terrace and outside the Wisteria Tea Room, both of which are now dogfriendly.
The garden has partnered with Okehamptonbased natural pet food company Forthglade, who are supplying water stations and offering free dog treats on arrival.
“We’ve worked hard to balance the needs of dog walkers with our responsibility to the gardens,” said Site Manager Emma Thompson. “The 'Paws on Paths' rule minimises impact while allowing visitors and their pets to enjoy the grounds. With added shade, facilities, and clear guidance, we’re confident responsible dog owners can make the most of Rosemoor this summer.”
Forthglade’s Liane Meade added, “We love supporting local initiatives that nurture the bond between dogs and their owners.
Rosemoor’s dog-friendly days were a perfect opportunity for us to get involved. We hope our treats and watering points enhance the experience.”
Previously, Rosemoor held popular ‘Walkies’ evening events during summer The current pilot was launched following growing demand from RHS members and the public for increased dog-friendly access. Feedback from this summer’s trial will help shape future access for canine companions
Let me know if you’d like a version adapted for print layout or formatted for social media promotion.
Age Concern North Devon is calling on local residents to step forward and help make a real difference to the lives of older people in our community. With a variety of volunteer roles available, there are opportunities to suit all interests and time commitments
Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring older people stay connected, supported, and active
Some of the roles currently available include: Befriending & Telephone Befriending: Offering companionship through weekly home visits or phone calls to those who are lonely
Carer Support: Providing respite breaks for carers by befriending the cared-for Community Transport: Driving people to medical, practical, and social appointments
Community Transport Book Desk: Answering phone calls and taking transport bookings using our booking desk software.
Shopping Assistance: Supporting older people by shopping with or for them.
Community Activities: Setting up and helping with activities such as coffee mornings.
We value our volunteers, ensuring they have everything they need to make a difference including our Volunteer Handbook and excellent staff support Volunteers will: Complete an application form and informal interview
Provide two references and undergo an enhanced DBS check.
Be given Induction Training, with additional optional training in subjects such as Dementia Awareness and First Aid.
Volunteers involved in Community Transport will also have their driving documents, insurance, and MOT checked for safety.
To ensure volunteers are not out of pocket, all expenses are reimbursed, including car mileage, parking charges, and public transport costs. We welcome feedback from volunteers, including through our Volunteer Steering Group.
Additionally, volunteers are encouraged to take part in quarterly social events, such as a Spring
Coffee Morning, Summer Afternoon Tea, Autumn Big Breakfast, and a Christmas Party —fantastic opportunities to meet fellow volunteers and celebrate achievements!
Volunteering with Age Concern North Devon is a chance to make a real difference, meet new people, and gain valuable experience. Whether you have a few hours a week or just occasional availability, your contribution will have a lasting impact on someone’s life.
If you’re interested in joining our dedicated team of volunteers, we’d love to hear from you
Contact us by phone: Jill, 01271 445134, email: jill@ageconcernnorthdevon.org.uk website www.ageconcernorthdevon.org.uk
Facebook: @ageconcernnorthdevon
Wine lovers are in for a treat this summer as The Carlton in Ilfracombe hosts a weekend dedicated to local flavour, food, and fine wine From 29th to 31st August, guests are invited to discover the delights of Venn Valley Vineyard, North Devon’s very own boutique winery, paired with a specially curated dining experience at the hotel.
The centrepiece of the weekend is a fivecourse wine dinner on Saturday evening, held in The Brasserie at The Carlton Each dish is designed to complement a featured wine from the Venn Valley cellar, with a strong focus on local produce, bold seasonal flavours, and seamless pairings. The menu has been devised and prepared by Eliot, the hotel’s chef patron, who brings a thoughtful and elegant touch to modern British cooking.
Guests can choose to attend just the dinner, or opt for the full weekend experience which includes:
∙Two-night stay in a comfortable, ensuite guest room
Friday evening welcome drink
∙Guided tour and tasting at Venn Valley on Saturday
∙Saturday’s five-course paired dinner
∙Full breakfast both mornings
The Carlton’s long-standing commitment to local collaboration and independent food and drink is at the heart of the event. Venn Valley Vineyard, located just outside Barnstaple,
has built a strong reputation for producing award-winning still wines, crafted with care from grapes grown on Devon slopes.
The weekend promises not only great wine and food, but also a relaxed, sociable atmosphere — ideal for those looking to expand their wine knowledge in an informal and welcoming setting. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus are available by request and staff are on hand to guide
Whether you’re a curious local, a visiting foodie, or simply after a memorable night out, the Wine Weekend at The Carlton offers an accessible yet elevated experience. It’s a chance to explore North Devon’s quiet confidence as a destination for great food and drink — with the sea and hills just moments away Limited availability. Advance booking essential
To book either the wine dinner or weekend package, visit: www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk or call The Carlton on 01271 862446
There’s nothing quite like exploring North Devon on foot. With so many quiet lanes, ancient woodlands, and sweeping views, our patchwork of villages is a walker’s paradise offering something for everyone, whether you’re after a gentle afternoon ramble or a more challenging trek.
Start your adventure in Bratton Fleming or West Buckland, where a network of peaceful lanes and bridleways winds through rolling farmland These routes are ideal for a relaxing stroll, with hedgerows brimming with wildlife and the distant sound of church bells marking your progress For a longer outing, head towards Brayford or Chittlehampton, where you’ll find circular walks that take in riverside meadows and ancient woodland, especially beautiful in bluebell season.
picturesque harbour are well-known, the real magic lies just beyond the village. The South West Coast Path offers dramatic clifftop walks with panoramic views across Bideford Bay.
Nearby, Woolsery and Buckland Brewer are gateways to both coastal and countryside walks, with paths leading through ancient woods and undulating fields.
The Tarka Trail is a highlight for many Accessible from villages like Chulmleigh, Winkleigh, and Littleham, this wellmaintained path follows the route made famous by Henry Williamson’s beloved otter. It’s perfect for families, cyclists, and anyone seeking a flat, easy-to-follow route Along the way, look out for historic railway bridges, wildflowers, and the occasional glimpse of deer or fox in the early morning.
For those drawn to the coast, Clovelly is a must-visit While the cobbled streets and
Inland, the villages of Filleigh and Goodleigh offer woodland walks beneath leafy canopies, especially rewarding in spring when wild garlic carpets the ground, or in autumn as the leaves turn.
The riverside trails near Muddiford and High Bickington are a haven for birdwatchers, with kingfishers and herons often spotted along the banks
Wherever you choose to wander, remember to bring a map, wear sturdy footwear, and respect the countryside code close gates, leave no trace, and greet fellow walkers with a friendly nod Many routes end conveniently close to a welcoming village pub or café, perfect for a well-earned rest and a chat with locals
Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to appreciate the unique charm and natural beauty of our rural communities. Every path has a story, and every walk offers a new discovery, so why not set out and see what you can find?
North Devon’s villages continue to buzz with activity. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone, community fairs, music evenings, countryside walks, and more. Here’s a taste of what’s happening across the Rural Reach area this late summer and early autumn:
Woolsery Harvest Fair (Early September):
Celebrate the best of local produce, with stalls offering homegrown fruit and veg, baking competitions, and live folk music.
Brayford End-of-Summer Show (Late August): A traditional village show featuring flower displays, homemade crafts, children’s games, and a friendly tug-of-war.
Clovelly Lobster & Crab Festival (End of August): A day of delicious seafood, familyf i dl f d li i f t l t d l l
North Devon Festival of Transport (August)
A family day out featuring all kinds of transport, food, and craft stalls.
Appledore Book Festival (Late August):
Celebrated literary festival with author talks, workshops, and family events. If your village group or club has an event this season, Rural Reach would love to help spread the word. Send us your details for a mention in the next issue!
