The Ivybridge magazine - March 2011

It’s all about you!

Issue 002 MARCH 2011

LEN DAR

What’s On W

ITH A HAN TC DY PULL-OU

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PROFILE ON

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STAIRWAYS Helping others to help themselves

SCHOOL REPORTS

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

COMMUNITY NEWS

How music is being used to inspire learning

Reports from the town’s varied and vibrant groups

News and views from around the town

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It’s all about you !

Issue 001 FEBRUARY 2011

It’s all about you !

Issue 002 MARCH 2011

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What’s On

TH ALE HAN DY PULL-OUT C

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First issue –––––––

LIFE IS LOCAL

PROFILE ON Why–––– now––– is the

time to ‘think local, act local’

STAIRWAYS Helping others to help themselves

SCHOOL REPORT

S How music is being to inspire learning used

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

Reports from the varied and vibranttown’s groups

COMMUNITY NEW S

News and views around the townfrom

COMMUNITY NEW S

What’s happening in Ivybridge

WHAT’S ON

Events in February with handy pull-out calen dar

Welcome to issue two

T

hank you to everyone who contacted me with such positive comments about the magazine.

The most commonly expressed sentiment seems to be that it is good to get a magazine focused solely on the town; as it says elsewhere, the magazine is about Ivybridge, exclusively, and will always be so.

While such positive feedback is of course gratifying, I am conscious that the magazine may not be so strong covering

some aspects of town life and I will be looking to address this as the magazine develops.

One of the first people to contact me was Ann Laity, who told me about Stairways, a group for adults with learning disabilities which she helps to run. Ann invited me to one of the group’s meetings, and you can read my feature about the group and its members on page six.

My main reason for starting the magazine was the belief that in the town there are many

groups, clubs and societies who would like to get their news in print. I think I was right! Many groups have contacted me and you can read their news inside issue two.

When responding to an advert, please mention that you saw it in The Ivybridge magazine. Even if you are just casually going around town, please feel free to do some cheerleading for the magazine!

I hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue.

Steven

Be in the headlines!

COVER PHOTO: The Watermark, taken by Steven Vincent © The Ivybridge magazine

Publisher and editor Steven Vincent E: steven.vincent@ theivybridgemagazine.co.uk T: 07773 293467 The Ivybridge magazine is published by Lily design, 6 Claymans Pathway, Woodlands, Ivybridge PL21 9UZ www.lilydesign.co.uk

It’s easy to be part of The Ivybridge magazine. If you belong to a club or society, run a sports team, raise money for charity, run a business or volunteer, we want your story! Turn to page 4 for details of how your news can be headline news in every issue.

All information, advertised or provided, is accepted in good faith as being correct at the time of going to press.

Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher & editor.

The publisher accepts no responsibility for products, goods or services that may be advertised or referred to.

How to be part of The Ivybridge magazine should 5sonswhygetyouinvolved

rea

1. Get money for your club/group Get up to £100 for your cause just by submitting news

The Ivybridge magazine is a fresh, bright new concept in community news. And it’s about you!

There is much good news to celebrate about our town, news that does not always receive particularly good coverage in existing local newspapers and magazines.

The new Ivybridge magazine is different - you can be sure that your news will be headline news in every issue.

We want to cover all aspects of life in the town.

To help us do that we need your news. It could be achievements, forthcoming events (we have a comprehensive What’s On listing too), new recruits – anything you would like the wider community to know about.

2. Ivybridge news exclusively No news from outside the town

3. It’s easy!

Simple ways to submit news

4. Pull out and keep What’s On calendar Get your events listed

4. Don’t be left out Make sure your group/club doesn’t miss out

It is easy to submit a story to The Ivybridge magazine - and you could earn money for your cause as well. We appreciate that sending us your news is a commitment so The Ivybridge magazine Community Fund has £200 to give away every month - every club and group contributor (including schools, sports teams etc*) who sends in an article that is used in that month’s magazine will be entered into a draw with a 1st prize of £100 and two other prizes of £50.

Issue 002 MARCH 2011

What’s On

TH HAN ALE DY PULL-OUT C

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To be part of The Ivybridge magazine email steven.vincent@theivybridgemagazine.co.uk and we will send you details of how to submit news, deadlines, the Community Fund and so on.

It’s all about yo u!

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IT’S ABOUT YOU!

So don’t delay – get in touch today! * Excludes businesses, public bodies and individuals. No group/club can win more than two prizes in a calendar year

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PROFILE ON

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STAIRWAYS Helping others to he themselves lp

SCHOOL RE

How music is beiPORTS ng used to inspire learni ng

CLUBS & SOCIE

TIES Reports from varied and vibthe town’s rant groups

COMMUNITY

News and views NEWS from around the tow n

A QUICK ROUND-UP OF IVYBRIDGE NEWS

newsdigest Got a story? Send it to: news@theivybridgemagazine.co.uk

District Council votes to freeze council tax

COMMUNITY FUND WINNERS

Councillors’ grant helps youth service move

SOUTH HAMS’ councillors have voted to maintain the district council’s proportion of 2011/12 council tax bills at last year’s level, despite a reduction in funding from central government.

South Hams District Council (SHDC) budget proposals for 2011/12 came before full council on 10 February, when councillors voted to accept the Executive’s recommendation that its portion of council tax should not be increased.

The council, which is facing a combined reduction in formula grant from central government over the next two years of 26 per cent, has identified budget savings of £722,000 and anticipates that further savings will be achieved through its continued approach to shared services with West Devon Borough Council and a resulting new management structure.

South Hams District Council has the third-lowest council tax in Devon and its Band D amount of £134.52 remains well below the 2010/11 average council tax in Devon of £152.

A YOUTH advisory service which has helped more than 1,600 young people in the Ivybridge area over the last four years will be able to move into new offices thanks to a grant from two district councillors.

The Ivybridge branch of the Youth Enquiry Service (YES) can now complete The first winners of The Ivybridge magazine’s its move to the project’s £200 Community Fund have been drawn. head office at the top of The first prize of £100 was won by Ivybridge & the town centre, where District Community Transport Association, with staff will have more space two prizes of £50 going to Ivybridge Flower Club to deliver services effecand Ivybridge Camera Club. tively and YES will be more The Ivybridge magazine Community Fund is a small visible to young people. way of showing appreciation to those people who The grant was awarded take the time to send in news about their club,

by Cllr Michael Saltern group, team or society, and has £200 to give away and Cllr Louise Jones, who every month. Every club and group contributor agreed to contribute £500 whose article appears in the magazine is entered each from their Sustaininto a draw and could win the 1st prize of £100, or able Community Locality one of the two prizes of £50, for their cause.

Fund, which gives each district councillor £1,000 to help and encourage services, which are cur- have been approved by community vibrancy. rently only available at government inspectors.

The South Ham District large hospitals, to be ofDoes your group make Council proposals for Ivyfered in the town. a positive difference in The plan is opposed by bridge were scrutinised the community? nearby residents and during public hearings last If so, your district users of the field. They November and the inspeccouncillor may be able claim that the loss of pub- tors have concluded that to offer support lic space is contrary to na- the plans are in line with through their Sustaintional policy guidance, government criteria. able Community LoThe plans include the and have concerns about cality Fund. the adequacy of the adja- provision east of Ivybridge Tell them about your cent pavement and an in- for 100 homes and five project and they can crease in traffic associated hectares of employment guide you through the Health centre planning with the new facility, land up to 2016, and an application process. application submitted which makes it the wrong additional 275 homes and Decisions are norfive hectares of employsite for the new centre. mally made within a CONTENTIOUS plans to build ment land beyond 2016. few weeks. a new health facility on Town development The report states that For the contact dehalf of MacAndrews Field plans are approved Ivybridge central area tails of your district have been submitted to seeks to enable regeneracouncillor, go to the PLANS FOR new housing and tion of part of the town planners.

South Hams District The proposed new cen- employment land to help centre focused on the River Council website at tre would enable a range meet the needs of the town Erme, and is expected to www.southhams.gov.uk of new and better medical up to 2016 and beyond provide 50 homes.

March 2011 THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE

5

When education classes for adults with learning disabilities were closed in 2005, a group of volunteers were not prepared to see such vulnerable people cast adrift. They set up a club called Stairways and the work they do is making a real difference to the members’ lives, as Steven Vincent discovered when he joined them at a meeting

Helping others to help themselves

F

or all of us, moving house is an exciting time and it is no different for David, who is telling me about his trip to the furniture shop to buy a sofa and coffee table for his new home. What is different is that David is an adult with a learning disability.

That David is confident living independently is thanks in large part to a volunteer-run club which helps adults with learning disabilities. He is a regular member of Stairways, a club run by Ann Laity, Margaret Grimoldby and Monica Hefford, which helps David and the other members develop social skills and confidence, as well as improve literacy and numeracy, so that they can live as full a life as possible.

The club meets once a week, on Friday mornings at the Scout Hut off Blatchford Road, where members engage in a wide variety of activities and projects designed to fire their imagination and act as a stimulus for reading, writing and discussion.

The variety of work the members do is truly impressive, and the group had prepared many of their projects

David

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THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

Games are fun but challenging

for me to look through during my visit. All activities are recorded in some form – written as a story, illustrated with a drawing or a piece of art, or photos in an album – and each member has their own portfolio which they keep at home.

As I talked with the members they all said how much they appreciated the work Ann, Margaret and Monica do with them on basic skills like numeracy, reading and writing. Naturally, they also all have their own favourite activities.

Linda, who is a very talented artist and drew a fabulous picture of lion cubs as the front cover of her project on animals, really enjoyed the yoga classes they took. “It was good for my fitness,” she said. “And it really helped me de-stress from the pressures of life.” She also likes the fact that they learn skills that they can use at home. “We have done quite a lot of cooking here,” explained Linda. “Now I help with meals at home by preparing the vegetables.”

Using writing and art to make the storyboards for the club’s performances was one of Neil’s favourite ac-

Linda

tivities, and he also enjoys the trips.

“We went and picked strawberries,” he said. “And when we got back to the club we made our own jam.”

Louise is the newest member of the group. She really liked doing the animal project – she did it on hamsters – and is enjoying making new friends.

The showman of the group is undoubtedly David. He has taken the lead role in several of the performances the club has produced; he was the giant in Jack and The Beanstalk,

The group proudly showed off their work

Neil

and Toad in Wind in the Willows. But one piece of work David showed me really emphasised how what the members do at the club can help them in their lives. One of the first elements of a project on food is a checklist of how to use a kitchen safely. “In my house, when I am in the kitchen I follow these instructions,” he said.

Trips are a popular part of what the club offers, and they are not only beneficial for the members. Monica told me how a visit to Buckland Abbey for a flower arranging session led to the Abbey offering more group visits.

Monica explained: “We organised a trip to the Abbey for a session of flower arranging and when we arrived, the garden staff had laid on a nice work area and lots of beautiful flowers and plants. They then helped everyone make some delightful Christmas table centre pieces.

“Some while after, I learned that the garden staff had enjoyed the session so much that they approached the managers at the Abbey to suggest

that they offer more activities like this. Now, many more groups can go to the Abbey for these hands-on sessions, not only in the garden but also the kitchens as well.”

In an echo of current local authority spending decisions, Stairways was set up in September 2005 following the closure of local community education classes for adults with learning disabilities due to spending cuts.

“It was just not fair that such vulnerable people were being treated this way,” said Monica. “So we decided to set up our club, initially on a three month trial basis, using our own money if necessary, to ensure that they still had somewhere to go to continue their development.”

Fortunately, the club was supported by a group of enthusiastic funders from the beginning, and Ann, Margaret and Monica did not have to use their own money. Stairways became a charity at the end of 2007, which enabled the club to access new sources of financial support.

The club currently has four members attending regularly, which allows Ann, Margaret and Monica to devote a tremendous amount of time to each member, and this has had a real impact on their development. However, the small number of members is also a cause for concern. “It’s lovely to be able to spend so much one-to-one time with the them,” said Ann. “But we are worried that when we next have to apply for funding this could go against us. Some grants have criteria attached regarding the number of people benefiting from the money and we may be below the required number.”

The session ended with some games, and they kindly invited me to join in. The games are of course meant to be fun but they also continue to challenge Linda, David, Louise and Neil, this time to use their numeracy skills. The group members, like anyone playing a game, clearly have a competitive spirit, but there was also a wonderful sense of helpfulness towards each other – if someone misunderstood the rules they would calmly and quietly repeat them, or if a wrong card was put down someone would explain why that card could not be laid. An important factor in allowing this interaction to develop is the ability of Ann, Margaret and Monica to stay in the background and allow the group to work things out for themselves.

It was a very humbling experience attending the session. The dedication and enthusiasm of Ann, Margaret and Monica, and their selflessness in voluntarily giving their time to help others is amazing. But the real stars of the club are the members. Despite their learning disabilities, David,

Louise

Linda, Neil and Louise are determined to make the most of every day and live as independent and fulfiling lives as they can.

It is the help with developing everyday life skills that makes the club so valuable, and is really making a difference for each member.

The final word goes to Louise, who simply says: “I like coming here and telling my friends all about the things I have done during the week.”

FIND OUT MORE

Contact Margaret on (01752) 894763, email margaretgrimoldby@googlemail.com or Ann on (01752) 691648, email a.laity@btinternet.com March 2011 THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE

7

Ellen’s grand jeté

“The change in my dancing since I joined the Academy is amazing”

A TALENTED

young dancer has been given a fantastic opportunity to kick-start her dancing career by securing a three year scholarship to the Youth Dance Academy.

Ellen Andreassen was put forward by her school dance teacher to attend an audition last summer and, after some gruelling dance sessions and a second audition in Exeter, was thrilled to win the three year scholarship.

The academy sponsors young dancers who might aspire to a career in dance by covering the cost of lessons, dancewear and equipment. The students are also mentored by a senior tutor with the Academy and attend regular training sessions at Exeter University – often taught by a guest teacher or dancer currently performing with a dance company.

But the hard work doesn’t stop

there – the students also have to commit to spending every school halfterm holiday at a residential dance school; all this in addition to fitting in their usual school work.

Ellen, who is a Year 10 student at Ivybridge Community College, is studying for 12 GCSE’s and says: “Although it is hard work and I get very little time when I’m not either dancing or studying, it gives me such a buzz. The change in my dancing since I joined the Academy is amazing.

“Although I danced as a hobby before getting into the academy, I had never considered it as a career. Now, I feel that anything is possible if you work hard enough. I’d love to be a dancer

with a company like Rambert, and maybe go into dance or sports physiotherapy afterwards.”

Ellen also dances with the Lucy Abbot Dance Academy and is currently rehearsing for the annual show in March. She will perform along with her eight year old sister, Charlotte, who would love to follow in her big sister’s footsteps... or should that be dance steps?

Children’s Hospice group is supporting precious lives A GROUP supporting the Children’s Hos- sure that you are certain of a ticket. Tickpice South West’s ‘Precious Lives Appeal’ has raised an incredible £9,500 in its first two years thanks to the amazing support of the people of Ivybridge.

Ivybridge Friends’ Group of Children’s Hospice South West was formed to help the hospice achieve its dream of building a new children's’ hospice, called Little Harbour, in Cornwall.

The friends’ group’s next big event is its spring quiz evening at The Rugby Club on Thursday, 14 April. The group’s quiz evenings are always hugely popular, so put the date in your diary now to make 8

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

ets cost £7.50 and include a light supper.

The new children’s hospice covers south Devon, as well as Plymouth and Cornwall, so it is very much a local charity.

It is hoped it will open at the end of 2011, and there is now a real push to raise the remaining £800,000.

These are exciting times for the group, and they know that the wonderful people of Ivybridge will continue to support them in whatever way they can.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact local co-ordinator Diane Croad (01752) 892223

Veterinary team takes to the trees A GROUP of 10 nurses and receptionists from Woodlands Veterinary Group are undertaking a ‘tree surfing’ challenge to raise money for St Lukes Hospice.

The team face a gruelling three-hour assault course around tree tops at Gulworthy, near Tavistock in the beautiful Tamar Valley The challenge takes place on 13 March. If you would like to support the team, sponsor forms are available at Woodlands Veterinary Centre on Cornwood Road.

Bike and trike for Poppy Appeal

Mark of Respect Bike Builder members with Poppy Bike One

Sam Tayler

A GROUP of Ivybridge motorcycle enthusiasts is busy building bikes to support the Royal British Legion (RBL) in its 90th Anniversary Poppy Appeal.

The group, known affectionately as the ‘hairy bikers’, are the Mark of Respect Bike Builders, and was the brainchild of group president and founder member Ian Couzens. He wanted to support the RBL appeal in light of current armed forces operations, and decided to do what he does best and build a custom motorcycle to raise money.

The group set about building a first bike as quickly as possible, using charitable donations and aid as much as possible, to raise funds to support the build of a second, 90th anniversary bike. Together with fundraising events and activities, the first bike generated in the region of £6,300.

Work is now underway putting bike number two together, which will be a

Ian Couzens Andy Hardaker

Andy Stephens

tricycle. This type of motorcycle was chosen as it has the option for conversion to enable a rider with physical disability to take to the roads.

The group has set itself a tight schedule for the trike build. They are hoping to have it fully completed by midApril, which will allow them to display it at various events throughout the spring, summer and autumn, where raffle tickets will be sold, and the bike

Dry cleaning OTHER SERVICES WE OFFER: • Alteration and repair service • Duvets, curtains, loose covers, blankets and rugs cleaned or laundered • Carpet cleaner hire

finally raffled in November. Additional fundraising is also planned, primarily through local events, and the fund has already received a boost from naval base and ship support contractor, Babcock International.

All funds raised from the 90th Anniversary Trike will be donated to the RBL 90th Anniversary Poppy Appeal.

The group’s progress can be monitored at the Ivybridge RBL website – www.rblivybridge.co.uk

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STOWFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL

school

Year five children from Stowford Primary School raised money for the Children’s Hospice when they played their trumpets in Glanvilles Mill

REPORTS

Science, sights and a show in London Year five children from Manor Primary School went on a two-day visit to London. Here, pupils Zara, Lace, Jonathon and Jack report on the trip.

ON THE 1st and 2nd of February we went on a trip to London. (Our capital city!) We left at half-past seven in the morning – we were all half asleep! When we arrived, the buildings were amazing – some of the houses were as much as five, even 10, stories high! Before we knew it we were at the Science Museum, it was huge and there were lots of different activities that were amazing fun! After that we had tea at Planet Holly“We saw the Houses of Parliament”

wood, they gave us a great welcome as our name Manor Primary was on the big screen! Our next stop was the Meininger hotel.

The next day we had a quick breakfast and then off to the London Eye. We were the first Manor children to go on it and just before we did we were allowed to watch a fantastic 4D film! We all loved the London Eye, although it was a little bit scary. After that we went sight-seeing – we saw the Houses of Parliament and even Buckingham Palace!

Then it was time for the Lion King, which was outstanding!

Sadly, it was then time to come back to Ivybridge; we finally arrived back at school at eleven fifteen!

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MUSIC INSPIRES LEARNING PRIMARY SCHOOL children in Ivybridge are at the forefront of a government project to use music to raise achievement standards in primary schools.

Four years ago Stowford, Manor and Woodlands Park primary schools in the town, together with those in Ermington, Ugborough and Holbeton, were invited to be among the first primaries in the country to become specialist schools.

Building on the success of specialist secondary schools in raising attainment, the pilot programme was developed to assess whether specialising at primary level would raise standards in literacy, maths and science.

The Ivybridge cluster became music specialism schools. They received extra funding to spend on staff, training and equipment in their specialist area so that all children had access to music, and they had to develop a strategy for raising standards in the specialism.

The first year of the project focussed on the Voices Programme, which teaches music through singing. Staff from all the schools were trained how to teach singing and record music, and all children were given opportunities to sing.

Also, as part of the programme, all Key Stage Two children (aged 7-11) learn to play an instrument in large groups and have the opportunity to learn individually if they wish. Some of the instruments the children have the chance to learn include ukuleles, djembe drums, violins, brass instruments and recorders.

All the schools have formed choirs and orchestras, and they are much in demand at various venues and events lo-

A celebration of music The Walking on Sunshine concert is at The Watermark on Tuesday 22 March (performances at 1.30pm and 6.30pm) and Wednesday 23 March (performance at 6.30pm).

Tickets go on sale from 26 February and are only available directly from The Watermark. The performances are open to all, so go along and enjoy the children’s enthusiasm and talent.

cally and further afield. There is also a great deal of combined work, both in teacher training and the children performing together. This has included a workshop with the Royal Opera Company at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth, and last year an amazing concert at The Watermark, entitled Thank you for the Music. It was such a success that an extra performance had to be added, and it has inspired them to want to perform another concert, Walking on Sunshine, on 22 and 23 March (see panel for details).

With the programme now in its fourth year, music plays a central role in the curriculum at all the schools. The scheme has resulted in an excellent level of collaboration between the schools, at all levels, through the combined choir and orchestra and shared projects, such as the Royal Opera workshop and The Watermark concert. The schools also report that the singing and music teaching has had a big impact on children’s confidence and self esteem.

THE ERME PRIMARY SCHOOL

school

Books at bedtime launch reading challenge A ‘COME BACK & READ’ evening at The Erme Primary School

David Linus Luke

Elsie

Friends, Romans, parents THE ROMANS invaded Woodlands Park Primary School in the week before half term as children in years 3 & 4 got a taste of the life of a Briton at the time of the Roman invasion during a series of workshops.

Pupils came to school in Celtic costumes and Archie McWhinnie, 8

REPORTS

Olivia

had the opportunity to handle artefacts, as well as musical instruments, weapons used in battles and food from the era, and try on costumes.

In the afternoon they took up their hand-made shields and joined the Roman Army and trained to march as a Roman legion.

The day culminated with parents joining in to do battle against the well-trained Roman legion and try to fire play pit balls through their defensive shields!

Jack

Summer

Youssef

PENNIES FOR YOUR POTTIES CHILDREN AT Woodlands Park Primary School brought in their pennies to fill up potties as part of a novel fundraising event to raise money for the ‘Stand Up for Toilets & Clean Water’ campaign. The campaign raises money to repair, renovate and build rainwater tanks and toilets in schools in rural Uganda.

The children raised a tremendous £103.50p. Well done!

The Jays Day Care Nursery & Pre-School

The Jays Day Care Nursery and PreThe Nursery is set in 65 acres of School has been open since September magnificent parkland, and is just two 1995 and offers quality care for miles from Ivybridge, two miles Call Jacqui or Gill your child in a comfortable, safe from South Brent and only five on 01752 894437 and stimulating environment. minutes from the A38, for further details

OPENING TIMES We are open all year round except Bank Holidays and cater for children aged 3 months to school age Day Care 8am until 6pm: Includes toast, two course home-

cooked meal and healthy afternoon snack.

Sessions: 8am-1pm – includes toast and home-cooked lunch 1pm-6pm – includes healthy afternoon snack and high tea.

I Pre-School Funded Hours We also offer free early years entitlement hours for all eligible 3 and 4 year olds.

This entitles them to a minimum of two and half, and a maximum of 10 hours per day, up to a maximum of 15 hours per week.

Why not come along and see us at our

OFFICIAL OPEN DAY Saturday 26th March 2011, 10am til 1pm.

With Billy Wiz, Storytelling, Musik Garten & fun sidestalls/activities

Moorhaven Village, Ivybridge | Email jacqui@thejaysnursery.entadsl.com | www.thejaysdaycarenursery.co.uk

WOODLANDS PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL

launched a new reading competition which aims to encourage children to read a good selection of fiction books. Children and staff wore their night clothes, read a bedtime story and had hot chocolate and a biscuit. Parents remarked on how lovely the evening was, with one commenting: “Ooh, it’s just like Christmas!”

Each child has a reading trail with 44 different titles, with a book ticked off on completion. There are prizes for completing 20, 30 or all 44 titles, and they have a term to complete the challenge.

Ivybridge’s twinning with St Pierre-sur-Dives, in Normandy, France, is one of the most successful in Devon, says Clive Hunter.

But what is the story behind those twinning signs as you enter the town?

Good friendships have been forged on twinning visits

Long standing entente cordiale THE TWINNING of Ivybridge and St bridge consider the Pierre-sur-Dives was ratified in 1972, and is one of the oldest twinning charters in Devon.

The origin of the link goes back to the late 60’s and was the brainchild of then Devon County Council education/twinning officer Frank Caxton.

He thought there was much to be gained by the twinning of schools in the area and in France for educational purposes. These school exchanges developed into formal twinning between towns.

Fate played a hand in Ivybridge coming to be twinned with St Pierresur-Dives. Originally, Frank Caxton suggested a formal twinning between Plympton St Mary Rural District Council (PRDC) and St Pierre-surDives, south of Caen, but the soon to be implemented Local Government Act would mean PRDC was to be dissolved, so it was suggested that IvyFIND OUT MORE: To join the Twinning Association ring Clive Hunter (01752) 893726, Jane Britton (01752) 893245 or Judith Tasker (01752) 894766

link up.

On 27 September 1971 a public meeting was held at Ivybridge Comprehensive College, at which a local twinning committee was established. Soon after, a delegation paid an exploratory visit to St Pierre.

Following a similar visit from St Pierre to Ivybridge, a formal twinning was agreed.

On 25 June 1972, a delegation led

by Frank Caxton travelled by invitation to St Pierre, in Normandy, to sign the Charter. In September of that year, a delegation from St Pierre signed the other half of the agreement on a visit to the area. During the stay, the French visitors were entertained by the Ivybridge Rotary Club at a luncheon.

Under the chairmanship of John Congdon, a full twinning committee

was formed (the Mayor of Ivybridge becoming the permanent president), and so began one of the most successful twinnings in Devon.

Bi-annual exchange visits, when members stay in each others homes, have forged long standing friendships between families. Invitations to weddings, christenings and offering homes for holidays are common.

The association is always looking for hosts for its French friends and raises funds by organising events such as fairs, raffles, barbecues, quizzes, dances and walks.

On 28 April, 22 people from St Pierre are coming to Ivybridge for their bi-annual visit. A full social programme is planned, including a reception in The Watermark.

SOME SPACE TO BE YOU IVYBRIDGE NWR is a ladies’ group that join. There is no initial commitment, so

Club, society and groups’ news wanted!

Your club, society or group can be headline news in The Ivybridge magazine.

To be included, all you have to do is send your news to news@ theivybridgemagazine .co.uk 12

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

have been meeting successfully in Ivybridge for many years.

The once-a-fortnight meetings were held at members’ homes, but with 20 and more ladies attending, the group had a re-think, and now meets at The Priory, Cadleigh.

The meetings are varied – sometimes they take the form of a discussion, other times there is a speaker and some are just “silliness” (most meetings usually end up by having some sort of silliness in them).

Now that room allows, Ivybridge NWR would love new members to attend and

if it’s not for you there is no obligation attend again. The group prides itself on being very friendly and would certainly make everyone feel very welcome.

During the summer months, lots of outdoor activities are planned, such as boat trips, coastal walks, and concerts to name a few.

As an offshoot, the group also run a book club and is just about to start a writing group.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact Maggy Swinson (01752) 698041 or Rene Gulch (01752) 690542

PUTTING THE FUN IN FUNDRAISING ARE YOU looking to do something different? Do you want to help your local community and make new friends?

If yes, then The Lions Club of Ivybridge could be just for you. The Lions are a group of people, aged 18 to 70, who enjoy giving their time to raise funds for local charities, through everything from car washes to organising the Fun Day in July.

Meetings are held in The Old Smithy, on Fore Street, on the fourth Thursday of each month, starting at 8pm.

The Lions Club is also looking for storage in the town or the surrounding area – can you help? If so, please contact them with details.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact Jayne Edwards on 0845 8339834, or email lionsivybridge@gmail.com

The Germans are not coming THE GERMAN SOCIETY finally held its visit to Beverungen, from 21 to 30 Octoweather-delayed AGM and ‘Christmas’ meal (cleverly changing the theme to ‘Valentine’s Night’) in February. Guests from the French twinners joined members for a very pleasant evening. Special guest was Manfred, a sausage seller from Saxony, over to make his fortune at local barbecues!

Disappointingly, for the first time, the Germans will not be visiting Ivybridge at Easter. This does not affect the society’s

ber, but does mean that, to ensure members keep in touch, more social events will have to be planned in the meantime.

Finally, everyone at the society wishes Adrian Southwood a speedy recovery from his recent operation. Chairman Alan Wright in particular hopes he’s soon back in action as Adrian is due to drive Alan to Karneval, in Germany. Gute Besserung Ade (get well soon) Adrian.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact alanjwright1@btinternet.com

Flower club goes on world tour IVYBRIDGE FLOWER CLUB went on a trip “around the world in 80 minutes” at their February meeting at The Watermark.

Demonstrator Linsay Johns took members on a whirlwind tour of Holland, Singapore, Australia, Mexico, the Caribbean and back home to a spring garden and wedding.

Her informative and humourous commentary was very much enjoyed by everyone. Following the demonstration, 13 lucky people won arrangements in the raffle.

The club’s next meeting, on 8 March, has been changed to “Tulipmania – a hands-on evening”. This takes the place of an informal workshop; the d e m o n s t ra tion by Sarah Pepper has been cancelled.

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What’s on

IN MARCH

Arranging an event? Send details to: events@theivybridgemagazine.co.uk

The art of war A War Artist Exhibition, at The Watermark on Friday and Saturday, 11-12 March, explores the country’s military history through an amazing exhibition of pieces by both contemporary and classic war artists. Visit the 2nd floor Atrium at The Watermark.

Ivybridge Library events If you are interested in your family’s history, there is a family history workshop in the IT Suite at The Watermark on Thursday 17 March, between 11am and 1pm. There is no charge but people do need to book with the library staff.

It is Readers’ Day on Thursday, 31 March, at The Watermark between 9.30am and 4pm. There will be workshops and author talks from Lesley Pearse, Elizabeth Buchan and Christina Hopkinson (debut author).

Lunch and tea/coffee is included in the cost of £6.

Learn Italian You can learn Italian for fun at The Watermark on Fridays between 1.30 and 2.30pm.

The classes, taken by Giuseppina Graziano are held in the IT Suite. There is no fee but donations will go to Blossom Ivybridge Breast Cancer self-help and support group and Dame Hannah Rogers Trust. Call 07964 124896 for details.

More What’s On - page 16

Mad Dog Mcrea with support from Dan Donnelly Friday 18 March Musical magicians Mad Dog Mcrea are synonymous not only with a damn good party but also quality musicianship and the odd surprise.

Casting spells with kaleidoscopic orchestration, blistering on-stage energy and jiggery folkery, the Mad Dog’s cauldron bubbleth over with a fizzing potion of hocus-pocus that Merlin would be proud of.

They have toured extensively in Ireland, England, Europe, USA and Thailand, growing their large and loyal fanbase wherever they go.

With support from Dan Donnelly, this is a St Patrick’s day celebration not to be missed.

Tickets: £12 full price, £10 concession.

Fantastic evening of song When Oscar Met Billie – a tribute to the life and work of Billie Holiday with Louise Parker, comes to The Watermark on Friday, 4 March.

This fantastic evening of music is influenced by the legendary Billie Holiday and her infamous collaboration with Oscar Peterson in 1952.

Performed by Plymouth-based Louise Parker and supported by Craig Milverton, we have the ideal partnership to recreate what must have been a memorable get together.

Louise, who was named after Louis Armstrong by her jazz-obsessed father, grew up in a household filled with music. In addition to jazz, she heard folk, calypso and opera which her Jamaican born mother enjoyed.

Billie Holiday was a major influence when developing her singing style which can be tender or wild but always with superb phrasing, drive and intonation.

A fantastic evening of jazz and song awaits all lovers of quality music in this wonderful concert.

Tickets: £12, concessions £10

MARCH’S THURSDAY NIGHT CINEMA @ The Watermark Films start at 7.30pm ––––––––––––

10th Wall Street, Money Never Sleeps (12A) : 133 mins 24th Age of Innocence (U) : 139 mins

All information is printed in good faith but The Ivybridge magazine cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions 14

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

PULL OUT

Calendar

h c r a M

To make sure your event is included in the community diary, please supply details by the 12th of each preceding month – tel 01752 892220 or email info@ivybridgewatermark.co.uk

1

8

Ivybridge & District Camera Club meeting, 7.30pm, New Hall, Bittaford.

Tutorial by David Rayner Colour, space and other tips. Visitors welcome.

Meeting of town council Planning & Infrastructure Committee, 7pm, including public participation session, at the Town Hall, Erme Court.

Ivybridge Flower Club, 7.30pm, The Watermark.

Ivybridge & District Camera Club meeting, 7.30pm, New Hall, Bittaford.

‘Show your own work’.

Members show a short portfolio. Visitors welcome.

Ivybridge Work Club, 10am-12 noon, IT suite at The Watermark.

9

3rd Friday breakfast meeting, The Watermark, 8.30-10am.

Open House Cafe, Methodist Church, 8-10pm.

Ivybridge Country Market 8.30-11.30am, at the Scout Hut next to the Leisure Centre.

Live Event: Mad Dog Mcrea with support from Dan Donnelly 8pm @ The Watermark

2 Ivybridge Work Club, 10am-12 noon, IT suite at The Watermark.

Toybox re-opens at Chapel Place Community Centre, 9.30-11.50am, £1.50 per family.

4 Ivybridge Country Market 8.30-11.30am, at the Scout Hut next to the Leisure Centre.

Abstract Painting Workshops 10am-12 noon at Erme Lodge.

Buon Anno Nuovo 2011, Italian for Fun. IT Suite, The Watermark, 1.30-2.30pm.

Praying for Chile, Women’s World Day of Prayer hosted by The Salvation Army, 7.30pm, Methodist Church.

Live Event: ‘When Oscar Met Billie’ A tribute to the Life and Work of Billie Holliday with Louise Parker 8pm @ The Watermark Open House Cafe, Methodist Church, 8-10pm.

5 Erme Court Saturday Market @ The Watermark 9.30am - 12.30pm.

6 Ivybridge Cricket Club indoor practice 11am1pm, the leisure centre.

7

Meeting of Ivybridge Town Council, including public participation session, 7pm, The Watermark, Erme Court.

One-day drawing and colour pencil workshop (10am-4pm) in Ivybridge Town Hall.

Ivybridge Work Club, 10am-12 noon, IT suite at The Watermark.

10 South Hams Connect @ The Watermark, 10am12noon.

Film: Wall Street, Money Never Sleeps, 7.30pm, 133 minutes, rated 12A.

11 Buon Anno Nuovo 2011, Italian for Fun. IT Suite, The Watermark, 1.30pm to 2.30pm.

Ivybridge Country Market 8.30-11.30am, at the Scout Hut next to the Leisure Centre.

A War Artist Exhibition, The Watermark Craft Fair, Woodlands Park Primary School Friends’ Association, time tbc.

12 A War Artist Exhibition, at The Watermark

13 Ivybridge Cricket Club indoor practice 11am1pm, the leisure centre.

All dates and times believed to be correct at time of going to press

16

22 contd Ivybridge & District Camera Club Meeting, 7.30pm, New Hall, Bittaford. Merit Print Competition - Club League competition. Open subject.

17

23

Ivybridge Library event Family History Workshop, 11am-1pm, IT Suite,The Watermark.

Ivybridge Work Club, 10am-12 noon, IT suite @ The Watermark.

Walking on Sunshine – @ The Watermark. 6.30pm.

18

19

24 Ivybridge Garden Association, 7.45pm, Methodist Church Hall.

Film: The Age of Innocence, 7.30pm, 139 Minutes, Rating U, @ The Watermark.

25 Ivybridge Country Market 8.30-11.30am, at the Scout Hut next to the Leisure Centre.

26

Richard Durrant The Guitar Whisperer.

Masterclass 9.30am1.30pm. In concert 7pm for 7.30pm. Both @ The Watermark.

Erme Court Saturday Market @ The Watermark 9.30am-12.30pm.

Ivybridge Information Fair, 9am-1pm, @ The Watermark

20

Ivybridge Cricket Club indoor practice 11am1pm, the leisure centre.

Ivybridge Cricket Club indoor practice 11am1pm, the leisure centre.

22 Walking on Sunshine – specialist music schools’ concert @ The Watermark.

Performances at 1.30pm and 6.30pm. See page 10 for details.

Meeting of Town Council Planning & Infrastructure Committee, 7pm, including public participation session, at Town Hall, Erme Court.

27 28 Ivybridge U3A Methodist Church Hall at 2pm.

30 Ivybridge Work Club, 10am-12 noon, IT suite @ The Watermark.

31 Ivybridge Library Event Readers’ Day, 9.30am 4pm, The Watermark.

March 2011 THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE

15

WHAT’S ON CRAFT FAIR Woodlands Park Primary School Friends’ Association is holding a craft fair on Friday, 11 March, (time tbc).

Tables are £5 plus the donation of a raffle prize, or £10.

FIND OUT MORE: email wpfachair@ googlemail.com

ART GROUP Ivybridge Art Group meets every Friday, 10am to 12 noon, at Erme Lodge.

Whether a beginner or a professional artist, all are welcome. The first session is free, thereafter it is £3 per session, which includes coffee/tea and cakes. Bring own materials (canvas/paper, paint, brushes, apron) or contact them.

FIND OUT MORE: contact Esin Forster 0776 040 1477, esinforster@ groups.facebook.com.

Richard Durrant, the Guitar Whisperer, is holding a masterclass at The Watermark on Saturday, 19 March, between 9.30am and 1.30pm. There are only six places – call 07792 896225 for more information or to book.

Richard is also performing a concert at The Watermark, 7pm for 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £16 (£5, 14 and under) and are available from The Watermark, tel (01752) 892220, or online at www.WeGotTickets.com.

Tickets are also on sale to watch the masterclass.

Gardeners set to talk flower arranging Ivybridge Garden Association’s March meeting is on Thursday 24 March, at the Methodist Church Hall, starting at 7.45pm. The meeting will include a talk about flower arranging by Mrs Williams.

Quality Framing at affordable prices Whatever you want to frame, bring it to us and we will do the rest!

Loyalty Card

10% DISCOUNT ON FRAMING Cut out your Leading Edge Loyalty Card and pop in and see Liz or Karen to choose a frame and get your 10% discount!

Meetings are free for members, while visitors pay just £1.50. Tea and coffee is available, there is a raffle and much more. Membership is £7 per person.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact Lesley Acheson, tel 01752 894867

Bored with your old wardrobe?

Want to raise some extra cash?

Give your clothes a new lease of life and make yourself some money by selling your things at the

Nearly New Clothing Sale Saturday 28th May 10.30-12.30 BOX FRAMING There is nothing that can't be framed! Football shirts, house deeds, ceremonial swords, even boxing gloves, can be professionally framed

MEDAL BOXES We can expertly mount and frame medals which, along with other related items, make wonderful heirlooms

01752 691352 | 56 Fore Street, Ivybridge theleadingedgegallery@hotmail.com

3rd Ivybridge Scout Hut (next to Leisure Centre) For information and a sellers’ pack, please contact Lydia Farmer (01752) 893838

A great offer for your business

Book two adverts, get one FREE See page two for details The Ivybridge magazine

LEISURE

WRANGATON GOLF CLUB

The best of both worlds A RUGGED Dartmoor landscape on the outward nine holes, with several winding moorland streams and the occasional grazing sheep and Dartmoor pony, gives way to a sculptured, lush parkland layout on the inward nine at Wrangaton Golf Club, near Ivybridge, offering players a truly unique golfing challenge.

This contrasting layout, which cannot be found anywhere else in Devon, is a true test for golfers of all abilities. The course’s elevated position means the course drains well, ensuring playing conditions are excellent all year round.

Following a round, the relaxed and friendly clubhouse is the ideal place to share a drink with your playing partners. For those wishing to make a day of it there is a range

Views across the South Hams are a stunning backdrop to a round

of delicious food available daily, and a traditional roast is served at Sunday lunchtime.

Wrangaton Golf Club was formed in 1895 when nine holes were laid out on moorland at the southern edge of Dartmoor. The parkland holes were added in 1988 when the club purchased 50 acres of parkland below the original course.

The club is a popular course for society days, with golfers coming

from far and wide to experience the unique challenge Wrangaton Golf Club has to offer.

The clubhouse and conservatory can be booked for a range of functions, and if you purchase food from the club there is no hire charge.

The course measures 6,065 yards with Par 70, and is a haven of peace and tranquillity. If you are looking for a friendly club in a magnificent setting, look no further than Wrangaton.

OUTSTANDING OFFER

Become a

FULL MEMBER for ONLY £250

Wrangaton Golf Club Offer open to first 50 applicants only.

Golf levies and bar card not included

t of The bes rlds... both wo A UNIQUE BLEND OF MOORLAND AND PARKLAND HOLES

APPLY NOW! limited

offer Apply to the secretary/manager Call 01364 73229 / 72161 Email wrangatongolf@ btconnect.com

Wrangaton Golf Club, Golf Links Road, Wrangaton ––––––––––––––––– www.wrangatongolfclub.co.uk

IVYBRIDGE

IS OPEN FOR

Business

‘Think local, act local’ Follow your dream - pg 19 Helpful healthcare direct to you - pg 21

Got a story? Send it to: news@theivybridgemagazine.co.uk

Do business over breakfast 3rd Friday Breakfast Meetings, as the name suggests, are held on the third Friday of each month to give local business people the chance to get together on a regular basis in an informal setting.

The meetings, at The Watermark, run from 8.3010am and attract up to 50 attendees. As well as networking opportunities, the meetings include a guest speaker who gives a short presentation about a specific business topic, such as managing your time, looking after your customers, effective marketing and boosting sales through the internet, and a breakfast buffet.

Admission is free for first timers, thereafter it costs £5 which includes the tasty buffet breakfast.

FIND OUT MORE: Call 01803 540500 or www.swinnovationcentres.co.uk

18

Make a will and help your favourite charity The Can’t take it with you series on BBC2 showed how important it is to make a will, particularly when there are children involved.

However, it is something many do not like to think about, or do anything about. If that sounds like you, an offer from Eric Cowsill Solicitors really does make it worth your while, and it can benefit the charity of your choice too!

Eric Cowsill Solicitors is offering to write simple wills for free. All they ask you to do is to make a donation of not less than £50 to your favourite charity.

For more complex wills they offer a substantial discount and they can advise you on a range of methods to make sure your estate is managed according to your wishes, and that any tax payable is kept to a minimum.

Writing a will is put off by many people

Eric Cowsill Solicitors is based near Tesco, on the Lee Mill Industrial Estate. There is easy, free parking and if you have difficulties with mobility, they can come to you.

Call 01752 205 202 to find out more about making your will for free, or visit their website www.swlaw.co.uk

Advertise and help local groups

A showcase for business success

You can now advertise and help local groups, charities and clubs as well thanks to The Ivybridge magazine’s Community Fund.

The new magazine for Ivybridge is packed with community news, submitted by people involved in the town’s groups and clubs.

In appreciation of their support The Ivybridge magazine launched its Community Fund, which has £200 to give away every month.

Club and group contributors are entered into a draw with a 1st prize of £100 and two other prizes of £50.

Ivybridge’s first Business Fair has been hailed a success by local businesses, job hunters and budding entrepreneurs after visitor numbers exceeded expectations.

The twin aims of the fair, which was held at The Watermark, were to showcase the wide range of successful businesses that are based in Ivybridge and encourage networking among exhibitors and visitors.

As well as an exhibition covering a huge range of local commerce and services, there were a series of very well-attended free business-focused seminars, covering topics such as starting your own business and effective marketing.

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

The fair was the result of collaboration between Ivybridge Town Council, the South West Innovation Centre, Ivybridge Chamber of Commerce and Ivybridge Community College, as well as South Hams District Council and South West Business Mentors.

Organisers of the fair, who are considering running similar events in the future, have been delighted with the positive feedback they have received.

Attendees commented on the high calibre of people, both exhibitors and visitors, the fair attracted and how the event was a fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded business people, to share ideas and meet potential new customers.

BUSINESS

LIME SQUARE

Follow your dream

Think local for great gifts

LIME SQUARE is a new gallery and giftware business located in Glanvilles Mill, Ivybridge. Its has a modern, fresh and uncluttered look with one side having a large window which allows light to flood in and the other having a large fold-back door allowing easy access – all of this giving an excellent view into the gallery.

The opening of Lime Square is the realisation of a dream for owners Mark and Jan. As Mark says: “Jan and I discussed owning a gallery like this one day but it was a fleeting discussion and was put out of our minds for some years.

“It wasn’t until a couple of years ago, when I was made redundant, that the idea of a gallery resurfaced.

The initial attempt to open failed, through no fault of our own, but

the second attempt, a year later, went to plan and here we are with Lime Square.

“The idea behind Lime Square was to bring something different to Ivybridge. Our vision was a place to display local art and provide a selection of unusual, quality gifts.”

Visitors to Lime Square will see that Mark and Jan have achieved

their aim; on display they have local art including pictures, turned wood, pottery, glassware and fused glass. They also sell locally handcrafted soaps and body products, Funky Fashion Jewellery, candles and much, much more. It is clear they focus on quality rather than quantity and they are continually on the lookout for new products and artists.

Lime Square also provides a gift wrapping service so you can leave the shop with your purchase wrapped and ready to give to that special someone, whether it’s to celebrate a birthday or anniversary or just to say “thank you”.

Mark says: “We have endeavoured to provide a selection of quality items that are affordable and cater for most occasions.

“Equally important, Ivybridge residents wanting a quality gift, or seeking an inspirational piece of art, no longer have to travel further afield, therefore keeping it local.”

‘Keep Shopping Local’ Ivybridge 01752 89 30 30 Occombe Farm 01803 69 62 53 Plympton 01752 34 01 01

Support Ivybridge Town Centre

H V D H 3O

www.gribblesbutchers.co.uk

BUSINESS

IVYBRIDGE PHARMACY

Helpful healthcare direct to you HELPING LOCAL RESIDENTS with their healthcare needs, by providing a range of pharmacy services direct to the patient, and excellent customer care, is the aim of Ivybridge Pharmacy, the town’s only independent pharmacy.

Ensuring people can access healthcare services at a time convenient to them is what Ivybridge Pharmacy offers its customers. The free collection and delivery service for NHS prescriptions and OTC medicines, covers the town and surrounding area. They can bring your medication to you, either at home or to your workplace.

Ivybridge Pharmacy offer a free collection and delivery service

In addition to prescription and over-the-counter medicines, the pharmacy offers customers free assistance taking their medication including medication reviews, a flu vaccination service, a weight management service and blood glucose monitoring.

There is also an interactive website (www.ivybridgepharmacy.com) with health and well-being advice,

an online GP service available 24 hours’ a day, seven days a week, and a prescription ordering service.

Healthcare products can also be bought online.

Ivybridge Pharmacy started in the Watermark three years ago, before moving to its current premises in July last year, and is proud to have local staff serving local people.

News Got a story? Send it to: news@theivybridgemagazine.co.uk

Cricket club looks beyond the boundary AN IVYBRIDGE sports club is set to step up its involvement in the community and is looking to improve its environmental creditials as well.

Ivybridge Cricket Club prides itself for being a positive force in the local community, and has, in recent STEVE ANSELL

FAIR IDEAS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF LIFE THE IVYBRIDGE branch of the Senior Council for Devon will once again be hosting the Ivybridge Information Fair.

The fair is at The Watermark on Saturday, 26 March, and will be open from 9am to 1pm.

There will be over 20 organisations offering in-

formation and ideas for getting the most out of life. These range from health care and healthy living to financial advice, and local services including the police, fire and rescue, local transport and caring organisations.

Each organisation will have a table-top presenta-

tion in Stowford Hall that will appeal to the over 50 age group and to the community as a whole.

If you would like to attend the fair but have difficulty with transport or mobility, free transport is available with Ivybridge Ring & Ride – call to book.

Better late than never The club’s new ground at Filham Park

years, organised fundraising activities for charities such as Dame Hannah Rogers School and the Sri Lankan Tsunami Relief Fund.

The club also wants to do its bit for the environment.

With this in mind, it is looking for contributions to help it invest in efficient water harvesting and is investigating the possibility of solar power generation.

Walk this way Ivybridge Walking Club is planning a long walk in addition to its normal fortnightly events.

On Sunday, 10 April, there will be a 15-mile walk from Princetown to Ivybridge. The coach leaves from The Watermark at 8am. Non-members £6.

Members free (annual sub only £10). Booking essential at Trail Outdoor, (01752) 892585.

22

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

Over 60 users of IDCTA services enjoyed a belated Christmas lunch, in January

THE WEATHER-DELAYED Christmas lunch for over 60 elderly passengers of the Ivybridge and District Community Transport Association’s vital services finally took place in January at Cockhavon Manor, Bishopsteighton The severe weather in mid-December led to the postponement of the original lunch date, but the association was determined to honour the commitment and give its passengers a treat.

The outing was so well supported that the association had to borrow two buses from Totnes to use alongside its own two minibuses to transport all the passengers to the lunch.

A thoroughly enjoyable day out finished with a scenic journey home along the coast through Torbay.

A group of pensioners were also taken to see the film The Kings Speech in Plymouth. Many of the passengers could remember the reign of King George and were very interested in seeing the film, but without the association’s transport would never have been able to access the cinema. For many, the trip was the first time in 20 years they had visited the cinema.

Ivybridge & District Community Transport Association is a registered charity which provides transport for the elderly, disabled or residents rurally isolated in villages within the South Hams of Devon.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact the co-ordinator. Dave Simpson, tel (01752) 690444, email idcta@btinternet.com, web www.idcta.co.uk

CHILDMINDERS SHARE THE CARE IVYBRIDGE CHILDMINDERS and the children they look after got the ball rolling at the beginning of the spring term with an energetic group trip to JUMP in Plymouth.

The outing gave the children the opportunity to explore a range of soft play equipment, and they could safely play in ball pools, on climbing frames, scramble nets and slides, and multi-level play, either on their ‘own’ or with friends.

While essentially playing, having fun and allowing their imaginations to run wild, they were also developing their physical and social skills, co-ordination and balance.

Providing opportunities for active play within a home-based setting, where children have few constraints and can be as energetic and active as they wish, can sometimes be seen as a drawback of choosing a childminder for childcare. However, many of the

Small changes make a huge difference

Council services closer to you

THE FIRST anniversary of Ivybridge gaining Fairtrade status was celebrated by Ivybridge Fairtrade Town Group at a wine tasting evening at Lukesland House.

The process which led to Ivybridge achieving Fairtrade status was started by a group of Rangers (14-25 year old members of Girlguiding) when they made a presentation to the town council to gain its support. The group then completed an audit of businesses within the town, writing many letters and talking to others.

Next, they focused on organisations, schools and churches, running activity sessions for Brownies, Guides and Beavers, as well as taking assemblies at school.

In March last year Ivybridge was granted Fairtrade Town status following several years’ hard work by a small group co-ordinating what was already happening within the town.

SOUTH HAMS District Council is coming to town. As part of its commitment to making services more accessible to residents, the council goes ‘on the road’ with surgeries and attends local events with its South Hams Connect initiative.

For Iybridge residents, the South Hams Connect team comes to The Watermark on the second Thursday of the month between 10am and 12noon.

Many residents have unanswered questions that trouble them, and it’s usually because they don’t know who to ask.

If that sounds like you, the South Hams Connect service can help with many enquiries, at the very least pointing you in the right direction to help solve the issue.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact South Hams District Council on 01803 861234 or visit www.southhams.gov.uk

fundraiGsUinIDEg

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

See page four to find out how you can be in The Ivybridge magazine

Ivybridge Childminders overcome this potential lack of space through the regular use of purpose-designed indoor soft play areas, where children can access the necessary space and equipment in a safe yet exciting environment. Also, if using the local leisure centre to access play and balance equipment, participate in the local community.

r Ove

60

ways to y raise mone

A Fairtrade Town is one that has made a commitment to support Fairtrade and use products with the FAIRTRADE Mark. The whole community contributes by pledging to do what they can to support Fairtrade.

Gaining Fairtrade Town status is just the beginning. The group wants to encourage the whole community to understand Fairtrade and make the small changes necessary to make a huge difference to so many throughout the world.

Fairtrade Fortnight 2011 runs from 28 February until 13 March, with the theme Show Off Your Label.

Keep an eye out around town for the bunting, which is part of a world record attempt, and take a look at the many shops and cafes which are supporting Fairtrade already.

FIND OUT MORE: Go to www.fairtrade.org.uk To let the group know how you are supporting Fairtrade contact Janet Parsons (01752) 897082 or Lorna Howell (01752) 691749

COMING UP with new and interesting fundraising ideas is always difficult, so Woodlands Park Primary School Friends’ Association decided to investigate what works and put them all together in the Fundraising Guide. The booklet contains over 60 tried and tested events. Some of the activities are small and only require one or two people, some are more ambitious, but all give you a ‘recipe’ for holding a successful fundraiser. The booklet would be a great reference for any group which needs to run regular fundraising events. The booklet is just £3.99 – for more information and to order a copy email lesley.andreassen@tesco.net March 2011 THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE

23

Edmund (Lewis Clark), Peter (Ed Grimoldby), The Professor (Adam HartDavis), Susan (Katherine Howard-Davies) and Lucy (Louise Merrington) PHOTOS BY ALISON SELDON

An enchanted evening AN ACCOMPLISHED adaptation of C S Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe was this year’s Ivybridge Theatre Company pantomime, performed at The Watermark in February.

This timeless tale was thoughtfully recreated and the diverse cast produced faithful interpretations of some of the literary world’s bestknown characters.

The four children, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are central to the story and members of the company’s thriving section of gifted young actors produced accomplished performances in the lead roles.

Not to be overshadowed, some of the company’s veteran performers brought years of experience of treading the boards to the main fantasy

Mr Tumnus, superbly played by Dan Shepherd 24

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

Editor Steven Vincent went with his youngest daughter, Charlotte, to Ivybridge Theatre Company’s pantomime Aslan

The White Witch

About Ivybridge Theatre Company

characters; Ann Laity as The White Witch and Alan Davis as Aslan.

More than 500 people attended the performances over three nights, testament to how well the company is settling into its new home.

The story required 25 scene changes and the backstage team also produced a near-faultless show. As Charlotte said, somewhat beyond her years: “It was very good because it was obvious a lot of thought had gone into it.”

The company was founded in 1994 and has performed over 50 plays and 13 pantomimes at many different venues in the town. They are pleased to feel more ‘at home’ in The Watermark and strive to make the most of their opportunities there by providing good all-round family entertainment at reasonable prices.

Membership is open to anyone over the age of 16 years, although children are often invited to participate in pantomimes. Ivybridge Theatre Company is the town’s official theatre company and welcomes new members who are interested in the performing arts (acting, directing or back-stage).

FIND OUT MORE: Contact the chairman Mr R Davis, (01752) 893308

Take better LAST TIME, we covered the importance of holding a camera steady to avoid blurry images. Sometimes, however, parts of the photograph come out blurred even though the camera is held absolutely steady.

This may be because the subject in your photograph is moving, which can cause blur – to solve this, we’ll look at panning (moving the camera at the same speed as your subject) in a future article.

Subject movement is easily identified and camera movement generally blurs the entire photo, so if parts are sharp and your main subject is not then this is most likely a problem with focus.

It’s so easy for the camera to get focus wrong, so my next essential tip is – learn to focus on your subject.

No lens can focus over a wide range of distances without adjustment (think of using a magnifying glass), and camera lenses are no exception. To deal with this, modern electronic cameras are fitted with some form of automatic focus, therefore, assuming you have held the camera steady, something, somewhere, in your image will be sharp. But is it the part of the image you wanted to be sharp?

By default, the camera will probably attempt to focus on what is in the centre of the picture, but this may not be what you wanted. Well-composed images may well have more than one part you’d like sharp, or maybe an off-centre subject. Portraits may have two people with neither in the centre of the view, causing the central auto-focus to settle on something in the background.

In these cases and many others you must take charge and find a way of telling the camera where to focus. If your camera shows you where it will focus with a little box or cross in the viewfinder or LCD screen, then you will probably find that you can adjust the position of this point before you take the picture. This is very useful, but often not as quick and easy as the catchall solution I shall show you here.

In part two of an occasional series of features, David Rayner, of Ivybridge & District Camera Club, gives you some tips to improve the images you take with your digital camera

Taking control of the focal point PHOTO BY DAVID RAYNER

How to make auto-focus always work for you (a) Do all the things you’d like to do about composing and framing your scene. Perhaps move a little so that there is not a tree appearing to grow out of someone’s head. Or try to be creative and put your main subject to one side. (b) When you have the scene just as you’d like it, move the camera slightly so that your main subject is now in the centre of the LCD screen. (c) Push the shutter halfway down.

This forces the camera to engage the auto-focus. You’ll hear a confirmatory bleep or see a green dot on the screen when the camera has finished focussing. Depending on the type of camera, this may take up to a second, but once it has happened, and while you keep the button halfpushed, you can move the camera and the focus setting won’t change. (d) Now, with the button still halfway depressed, carefully return the camera to the originally composed scene, express something to

make your subject laugh, and then complete the shutter squeeze.

Improve your photography by using this tip every time. It’s so easy to learn and use that you’ll soon find yourself making photos with it every time – even though sometimes you don’t need to!

Other skills to learn The auto-focus is normally activated as the shutter button is pressed to the halfway position. For this reason, always pause at the halfway point to allow the camera to find your subject and for its tiny motors to move the lens into focus position.

Most cameras have the ability to control the range of depths in the scene that are acceptably sharp, but if you want to do this without getting too technical, use the camera’s scene modes. Portrait mode will give a shallow focus zone, suitable for creatively blurring the background. Landscape mode will extend the depth of focal acceptability to the camera’s maximum.

March 2011 THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE

25

Sport

Ladies lead the way I Padding up for the new season I Mini rugby marvels I

Got a story? Send it to: sport@theivybridgemagazine.co.uk ERME VALLEY HARRIERS

Ladies lead the way RUNNING

THE LADY ATHLETES of Ivybridge-based Erme Valley Harriers have produced excellent results in recent weeks, none more so than Jess Harvey and Alison McEwing.

Jess, representing Devon, won a silver medal in the U17 age category at the South West Cross Country Championships, at Bicton College in East Devon.

The championships are one of the major events in the calendar and saw many of the South West’s top runners contesting club and county titles.

Also competing was club colleague Carie Robertson-Bell, in the U15 girls’ race, who finished a creditable eighth, helping the Devon team to the runners-up spot in the team competition.

Alison McEwing has started the year in fine style by setting a new ladies’ club record in the Exeter First Chance 10k, with a time of 38.43. Alison now holds all the ladies’ records – 10 miles, half marathon and marathon.

FIND OUT MORE: www.ermevalleyharriers.co.uk

Jess Harvey

ing Alison McEw MINI RUGBY

Padding up for the new season

Mini rugby marvels

Giving children the chance to play rugby in a safe, supportive and stimulating environment is at the heart of mini rugby at Ivybridge Rugby Club.

Players are required to attend training sessions every Friday and matches every Sunday throughout the season (September to May), and the knowledgeable and dedicated coaching team, all volunteers, take pride in seeing children progress every season.

Rugby doesn’t finish when a player comes off the pitch; there is a meal after a match, once a year there is a tour and each age group has its own annual presentation where the season’s achievements are celebrated.

IVYBRIDGE CRICKET CLUB is CRICKET nights and quizzes during busy preparing for its first the forthcoming season.” full season at its new home The club is holding indoor at Filham Park. pre-season net practice at IvyThe club runs junior teams for bridge Leisure Centre each Sunboys and girls at u15, u13 and day in March, from 11am to 1pm u11 levels, as well as two Satur- – anyone wishing to come down day league teams and a Sunday and join in is most welcome. league team, and welcomes FIND OUT MORE: For adult cricket contact players of all abilities.

Gareth (07944 978570) or Des (07984 A team also competes in the 456060) or Dave (07979 542155) for weekend P&D league, last season junior cricket enquiries. Alternatively, pulling off the Cup and divisional email jonsparkes1974@aol.com title double, and the club play IVYBRIDGE RUGBY CLUB Twenty20 matches and host Can you help? As part of touring teams during the season. the Nat West Cricket Force Chairman Steve Ansell said: “We project, players, supporters, hope that we can really add someparents, indeed, anyone thing to Filham Park. We were dewilling to lend a hand, are lighted last season that members invited to the clubhouse at of the public stopped to watch the Filham Park on Saturday and cricket and to take some tea or a Sunday, 2 and 3 April, when cold drink at the club bar. a programme of spring“We welcome not only new cleaning and improvements players but social members too, to the facilities will be unand we hope to develop the dertaken. Refreshments will FIND OUT MORE: To register your child, or if you would like to club’s social activities with events be provided. know about the club, visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ivybridge/ such as barbecues, fun days, race 26

THE IVYBRIDGE MAGAZINE March 2011

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