Molton Monthly February 2021

Serving your community since 2007

Molton mum’s first book flies out of lockdown!

February 2021

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Molton Monthly - February 2021 Welcome to the February edition of Molton Monthly - can you believe it’s now almost a year since the first lockdown, a year that we’ve all been living under the cloud of Coronavirus.

At the time of writing, ‘lockdown 3’ appears to be starting to work here in North Devon, with new cases of Covid-19 showing gradual falls around mid to late January. However, the situation in many other parts of the country is truly terrible, and we’re not out of the woods yet.

Despite the situation here, the Government’s lockdown restrictions look set to continue until at least the mid February school half term, and quite possibly well into March or beyond. It seems we’ll return to the Tier system whenever it is lifted (lockdown guidelines are on page 36).

Although there have been delays reported getting supplies to our rural area, the Covid vaccine roll-out is gathering pace.

I’ve included a handy guide as part of our February Coronavirus update (pages 14-17).

There have been some good things to come out of lockdown, as you’ll see with this month’s cover story. Mum and artist Jo Blake has written her first book, which is aimed at helping children get over their fears and shyness (page 8).

Don’t forget Valentine’s Day on February 14th! Although sadly it will be another celebration forced into lockdown this year.

Please stay safe, wear your face coverings, wash your hands and keep your distance.

Molton Monthly is published free to read on our website moltonmonthly.co.uk and we have daily news updates on Facebook and Instagram @MoltonMonthly Pete Robinson, Editor & publisher.

What’s Inside - February P6-7 P8 P9-10 P11-12 P14-17 P18 P22-23

Photo of the month Cover story - Jo’s book flying high Pub food guide

What’s On - February Covid-19 - latest on vaccines Police officers hurt in road crash Otter charity on prime time TV

P26-27 P28 P31 P34-35 P36 P38-39 P42-43 P46-47 P49-57 P60-61 P62 P63

Policing the Coronavirus rules Lockdown DIY guide February gardening tips Health & Wellbeing Lockdown guidelines Farm Life - February Filldyke A361 upgrade gets underway Air Ambulance fundraisers thanked Community News Schools and Learning Index of Advertisers

Local Information

South Molton Business Association is open to anyone running or planning to start a business in South Molton and the surrounding 32 parishes. SMBA - ‘promoting investment & growth in the community’.

Please visit smba.info to find out more about the benefits of joining us.

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Winter solitude

by Sarah Hailstone

Something a little different for our February photo of the month, but it’s an image that keeps drawing me in. I think it reflects not just winter, but these challenging times we’re living through - a feeling of a dystopian landscape. A lone stag, antlers mirrored by windswept bare branches.

This grainy picture might look like a vintage photo, or even a pencil sketch, but it was actually taken on Exmoor last month on a mobile phone at 10 x zoom, and converted to black and white by tutor and avid walker Sarah Hailstone. You might know Sarah from her work with children in North and South Molton, but her passion for trekking in our beautiful countryside has brought her to a new audience.

She can be found on Instagram and Facebook as ‘Discover Exmoor with Jack’. Walking with

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her dog Jack, she provides tips, maps and inspiration for everyone to explore our wild west landscape.

Whether it’s wildlife like this, a landscape, sports, special events, rural life, a local character or something else; please keep emailing us your pictures. We usually only feature one each month in the magazine, but show more on our Instagram and Facebook pages: @MoltonMonthly Please mention Molton Monthly when contacting advertisers

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Flying high - Jo hopes book will help shy kids

Photo courtesy Jo Blake

Stuck in Covid lockdown, South Molton mum and artist Jo Blake saw an online advert ‘how to write a children’s book in five days’. Four days later she’d completed her first draft, and now it’s for sale through web giant Amazon - and there’s even a copy in South Molton Library!

Inspired by her own childhood experiences, ‘Shy Skye Flies High’ is about a young hyacinth macaw called Skye, who finds the courage to overcome her fears and play with her friends.

It’s aimed at four to eight year olds.

“The story is based on my school days. Being quiet, I was often left out and alone at break time and found it difficult to make friends,” Jo told Molton Monthly. “I hope to inspire others to push through their shyness. If I can do it you can do it too!”

Jo had considered writing a book before but says she always made excuses not to finish it, but when she saw the free Facebook course she thought, “what have I got to lose?”

You can buy signed copies of the paperback direct from Jo (Jo Blake Art on Instagram and Facebook), and via Amazon. Jo says she’s happy to sign copies bought online as well. amazon.co.uk/Shy-Skye-Flies-HighChildrens/dp/B08NRZ1XRR

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What’s On - February 2021

Please contact event organisers to check events are still running, with Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines subject to change. Many events are now online or outdoors - be prepared for all weathers and possible postponements or cancellations.

17th 7.30pm - Online event ‘Rocks Rule!’ - join Geologist Ken Rutherford as he discovers why the geology of North Devon makes it so special.

Tickets £3 plus booking fee: brauntoncountrysidecentre.org/events/event/rocks-rule-whythe-geology-makes-north-devon-so-special Castle Hill Estate Filleigh - open Monday to Friday 12pm to 4pm for ‘locals only’ winter walks in the grounds.

South Molton Pannier Market - currently only open Saturdays from 9am for essential shopping items (one person per household requested, face coverings needed).

South Molton Library - see advert on page 12.

Text only what’s on listings in Molton Monthly are free - please email details to info@moltonmonthly.co.uk - deadline 12th each month.

Display adverts may carry a small charge.

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Covid warning - “think twice” before leaving home Despite the roll-out of the Coronavirus vaccines gathering pace in North Devon, NHS chiefs warn that the coming weeks could be the “most dangerous time” and are urging everyone to “think twice” before leaving our homes.

Devon’s Director of Public Health, Steve Brown (pictured right), has called on us all to be extra vigilant in following the Government’s Covid-19 lockdown rules.

“I completely understand how difficult this dreadful situation is for so many people in rural Devon. But every time you leave home you risk coming into contact with an infected person or touching a surface, door handle or petrol pump which may be contaminated.”

Photo courtesy NHS

He added, “Any one of these interactions could be a link in the chain of transmission which could lead to someone becoming seriously ill or dying from Covid-19.”

NHS healthcare experts add that while it’s really important to take daily exercise in the fresh air for physical and mental wellbeing during the continued lockdown, please stay as close to home as possible. Ideally start and finish your exercise at your front door, and if you meet a person from another household on your exercise, make sure you stay two metres apart (guidelines page 36).

Meanwhile, all GP surgeries in North Devon are now taking part in the vital vaccine roll-out. Chulmleigh area patients have a vaccination unit at the Lords Meadow Leisure Centre in Crediton, while South Molton and Lynton area patients are covered by the set-up at Barnstaple Leisure Centre.

All four of Devon’s main hospitals are now giving vaccinations to vulnerable patients, and GPs are also covering care homes. New regional mass vaccinations centres are also due to start operating.

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When will I get the vaccine?

Vaccines are being given to the most vulnerable first. The Government plans to inoculate a list of nine high-priority groups by the end of April, and everyone else by autumn (see page 16 for more information).

People are being reminded not to contact their practice or hospital to ask about an appointment, your local NHS team be in touch with you when it’s your turn.

Lockdown guidelines are on page 36

Almost 90,000 people in Devon received their first vaccine dose in the period up to January 17th, and a further 10,651 had their second jab in the same period according to the NHS. Watch out for vaccine scams Trading Standards say beware of fake texts or calls offering a Covid-19 vaccine, in an attempt to steal bank details. The Coronavirus vaccines are free, and the NHS will never ask for your payment details (see page 17 for more information on scams).

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Police officer knocked unconscious in “frightening” road crash A traffic cop was thrown under his vehicle and knocked unconscious while helping a brokendown driver on the A361. His Sergeant was flung onto the verge by the impact, when a car ploughed into the back of their parked patrol vehicle.

The Sergeant has been praised for his quick actions, rescuing his injured colleague. The crash happened just before 6pm on January 8th near Landkey. The link road was closed from Aller Cross to Barnstaple for several hours while an investigation was carried out.

Chief Superintendent Matt Lawler, head of specialist operations for Devon and Cornwall Police, said, “I spoke to both officers shortly afterwards and I’m so relieved they were not more seriously injured. This highlights the dangerous role that our roads policing officers undertake every day on our behalf, and it’s obvious to say that this could easily have resulted in fatalities.”

“This was a truly frightening experience for everyone involved, especially for the officer who regained consciousness whilst still lying underneath his own police vehicle, and I pay tribute to the courage and focus of his Sergeant in coming to his aid.”

The police officers had stopped to help a broken-down driver at the roadside when their vehicle was struck from behind by a Citroen C4, driven by a 77-year-old Bideford woman.

They had been protecting the scene with their marked BMW X5 (similar to the one pictured above), with all its emergency lights on, for about 15 minutes when the collision happened.

The Citroen rebounded into the opposite carriageway, hitting another vehicle, which also then collided with a further motorist.

The driver of the broken-down vehicle was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.

Officers have also been investigating the drivers’ reasons for being out during Covid lockdown. All those hurt were checked over in hospital before being allowed home to recover.

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Otterly marvellous! Wildlife charity on prime time TV

Dave Webb, left, is interviewed by Gillian Burke and the crew from The One Show - photo Kath Webb Orphaned otter Olly, released into the wild Photo - Nigel Childs

The work of North Devon based charity the UK Wild Otter Trust was showcased on the popular current affairs programme ‘The One Show’ on prime time BBC One in January.

Presenter Gillian Burke (pictured opposite right) and the film crew spent two days with founder, Chittlehampton based wildlife expert Dave Webb and his volunteer team.

They were following the story of orphaned otter ‘Olly’ who was released back into the wild at a secret North Devon location, after almost a year of rehabilitation by the charity.

“I was really excited to see first hand the fantastic work that they do to secure the

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future of this iconic mammal,” Gillian Burke told Molton Monthly.

TV presenter and naturalist Gillian Burke - photo Kath Webb

The TV naturalist is well-known for her work on BBC wildlife programmes, and has now become a patron of the UK Wild Otter Trust.

“Within weeks of linking up with Dave, his team had produced an educational pack for ethnic minorities, which has been very successful in bringing all people together in nature - no matter what background, religion or colour they are,” added Gillian.

Founder Dave Webb, says he’s very proud of the charity’s achievements becoming one of the most respected conservation groups in Britain. “What started as a passionate hobby is now helping to protect one of our most special native animals. And to become the leading centre for rehabilitating orphaned otter cubs - it’s a pretty amazing feeling!”

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To support the UK Wild Otter Trust go to: ukwildottertrust.org

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Photos by Simon Ellery

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Covid - policing the rules With concern that the worst wave of Coronavirus is yet to hit the area, North Devon Council is teaming up with local police officers to step up enforcement of Covid-19 breaches.

The Government is urging local authorities and police forces to use the powers available to crack down on those people who are not social distancing, travelling unnecessarily or continuing to run a business that should be closed.

Their four pronged approach involves: * Acting on reports of breaches of regulations and virus outbreaks * Using intelligence to identify potential breaches such as the advertising of holiday lets * Inspections of high risk places such as supermarkets, offices and showrooms * Checks on temporary accommodation to ensure vulnerable people are being housed safely The police will accompany council officers on inspections of holiday homes and extra NDC staff are being diverted into the authority’s Covid enforcement team. The council is also working closely with the Health and Safety Executive, and 340 local businesses have already been approached to check they are Covid Secure.

Council Leader Cllr David Worden says, “The vast majority of local people are abiding by the rules, but there are still a minority who are posing a huge risk to others by not taking the measures that are needed to prevent the spread of this killer virus. We only ever carry out enforcement as a last resort but some people have left us with no choice - so now is the time to step up our efforts to protect the rest of the community.”

“We have invested a considerable amount of time and energy helping to engage, explain and educate - and people have had plenty of time to fully understand the rules,” said Toby Davies,

Exmoor beaver - photo Ben Birchall

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PC Charles Northcott and council Neighbourhood Officer Ray Jones, who are part of the joint Covid enforcement team.

the Local Policing Area Commander for North and West Devon. “Those who continue to blatantly breach the rules, do so knowingly, and can expect robust formal action.”

Lockdown guidelines are on page 36

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How to get a professional DIY finish during lockdown With the third national lockdown continuing, people are spending a larger amount of time than usual in their homes, and taking on DIY tasks has proved to be a popular way to keep active.

One of our valued advertisers, RGB Building Supplies, has put together top tips on how to tackle three of the most popular DIY jobs.

Phil Sparks, manager at RGB South Molton, says, “We would always encourage people to give a job a go, but for complex projects, or anything that involves electrics, gas, or plumbing, please wait until a qualified professional can do it - with safe social distancing of course.”

Achieve a professional paint finish – preparation is key Before opening the can, the surface that’s about to be painted needs to be prepared. This includes giving it a quick wipe with ideally a sugar soap spray, filling holes, sanding if necessary and masking off the areas. To get a smooth finish, paint a whole section at once, whether that’s a wall, door, or floor and do it in long strokes. Then remove the masking tape before the paint is fully dry.

Top tip: the better the quality of the brushes and roller, the better the finish.

Repair fencing – use the right fixings Having had winter storms batter North Devon, many people have fallen or wobbly fence panels in their garden that were damaged, which they now have time to repair. Give the fallen panel a once over to check it’s not too damaged and if it is it will need replacing. If OK to repair, remove any loose nails, then line up the edge of the panel with the post and fix. Use fixings, which are either galvanised or stainless steel for durability.

Top tip: Ask a member of the household to hold the panel when fixing it to the post.

Putting up a shelf – have a spirit level handy This is one of the simplest jobs you can do, but one that can go very wrong. Firstly, what type of wall is the shelf being fixed to? Different fixings are required for putting up a shelf into a plasterboard wall, compared to a brick or masonry wall – don’t be afraid to speak to the retailer and ask for the right fixings. Hold a bracket at the right height using a spirit level to ensure it’s vertical, then mark the holes with a pencil. Drill the hole, then attach the bracket with the fixings. Repeat for the second bracket, but use a spirit level to check the shelf will be flat. The shelf can then be fixed to the brackets.

Top tip: Use a drill bit that is a size smaller than the screws.

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Jobs to do in February 1. Mulch shrubs, trees, hedges and climbers after pruning with organic matter such as well-rotted farmyard manure or garden compost.

2. Lay turf if the soil is not too wet or frosty. Work from planks to avoid compacting the soil.

3. Prune autumn fruiting raspberries, cutting all stems down to ground level.

4. Sow broad beans 2-3’’ deep, directly in the garden, or in pots of multipurpose potting compost.

5. Aim to complete renovation and pruning of deciduous hedges by the end of this month, before the nesting season starts.

Unlike many of the large garden centres who buy in their stock fully grown, ready to sell, at Ash Moor Nursery we still grow the majority of our plants from seed, plugs or liners (3’’ pots). From the middle of this month, we will start the mammoth task of potting up thousands of plugs - the first delivery will be Herbs, Lavenders, Heucheras, Alpines and Perennials.

The Nursery is now 29 years old and yet we still find it exciting every year when new shoots start to appear and the first flowers bloom. I guess it’s the same for all gardeners!

Until next month, Jenny Howells

Free Alpine worth £3.50 with any purchase over £15 with this voucher **Valid until February 28th, voucher only valid once**

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Highlighting homelessness

Photo: Guy Harrop

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Farm Life - February Filldyke

by Roger Hill

‘February Filldyke’ would occur almost every winter in years gone by. It was when we had a lot of snow during January and at the beginning of February. That would melt followed by heavy rain, thus filling the ditches, rivers and reservoirs.

Today with climate change, weather patterns are more unpredictable with more storms resulting in floods but usually less snowfall. Hopefully as farmers we can play our part by planting more trees, creating absorbent soil structure on the poorer and steeper land and work in harmony with nature to stem the flow of rivers.

Having said all that, the core business of food production must not be forgotten. Our enthusiastic and extremely talented young farmers need to be encouraged to continue to expand high quality, sustainable food to feed our nation.

They have the advantage of well researched, fine tuned winter rations for their animals.

A little different from what ‘we oldies’ grew up with consisting of hay, oats, kale (now a human delicacy), flatpole cabbages and mangolds (mangels) - Google them! The more we can produce in this country the less miles we use to import goods.

Until next time, Roger

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Our sheep overlooking the Exe Valley and the village church

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Website: quoit-at-cross.co.uk

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A361 upgrade will see 3 years of traffic hold-ups Work is getting underway now on the £60 million improvement works for the North Devon Link Road between South Molton and Barnstaple.

However, drivers are being warned to expect up to 35 months of delays, as the upgrade on the busy route is scheduled to be completed by December 2023.

Contractor Alun Griffiths Ltd has been appointed to carry out the work on the Government funded scheme, on behalf of Devon County Council.

The firm will carry out the planned improvements on a 4.8 mile stretch between Portmore Roundabout at Barnstaple and the Borner’s Bridge Junction at South Molton, as shown in the image opposite. Several sections of road will be widened between Portmore and Filleigh.

The project is designed to improve road safety and reduce delays. New roundabouts will be built and some junctions redesigned.

“This will boost active travel and facilities for pedestrians and cyclists will be introduced along the route,” said a spokesman for the contractors Alun Griffiths.

“Once completed it will not only benefit regional travel, it is expected to increase cross-country connectivity by improving people’s ability to travel into and out of North Devon.”

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council cabinet member for infrastructure said it is “fantastic news” for the local economy.

“It is the biggest transport investment in North Devon for a generation. It will help unlock the true potential of the local economy in northern Devon,” she said.

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Image courtesy Devon County Council

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Thanks to you - a new air ambulance for Devon Everyone who raised funds for Devon Air Ambulance is being thanked for their hard work and dedication, as the Trust’s new helicopter takes to the skies over the county (pictured right).

It also means the charity’s ‘old’ helicopter has relocated to the service’s North Devon airbase at Eaglescott near Burrington. This means that Devon now has two aircraft with full night vision capability, another huge benefit when the crew are called out to a medical emergency in the hours of darkness.

Ian Payne, Flight Operations Director explains, “We are absolutely thrilled to bring the Airbus H145, thanks to the people of Devon. Their determination to raise the funds needed, coupled with our determination to deliver this magnificent aircraft, means we now have state of the art flight systems and much improved space available to treat and convey patients.”

Critical Care Paramedics are on site from 7am until 2am waiting for a call, and can be airborne and on their way to assist their patient within just 2 minutes.

Pilot Craig says, “The new helicopter contains vital safety information which enables us to plan and make the best decisions possible to fly our medical team, and our patients, safely to our destination. I would like to thank our supporters for all they have done to enable us to welcome this new helicopter to the fleet, without them it would not have been possible.”

Linda Gilbert (left) has raised almost £10,000 for Devon’s air ambulance service since the start of the pandemic, by making fabric face masks.

“I am from a Devon family and am very proud of my county,” said Linda. “I have been so heartened by everyone’s overwhelming support.

2020 was a difficult year, but a year where there has been a very positive and rewarding outcome from my sewing machine and me!”

Devon Air Ambulance Trust will soon reveal plans for a fun new fitness fundraising event, which will take place this spring.

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Photo: Stephen Hampson

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Community News pages 49-57 Chulmleigh College leads campaign for better broadband With the third national Covid lockdown closing schools to most pupils, teachers say slow internet speeds in our rural communities are causing major problems for home schooling.

Michael Johnson, Executive Head Teacher at Chulmleigh College, has been leading the fight to improve broadband speeds here in North Devon. He says not being able to learn online effectively is making children “vulnerable”. He took the decision to invite pupils who suffer from slow internet connections to come back to school.

“It’s important that the issue of slow broadband is highlighted because it has become a critical utility during the pandemic,” said Mr Johnson. “The Government won’t know the impact of poor connections if they are not told, and will assume children will continue learning at home.”

“Rural areas must have good broadband access to allow its residents to work, access information, shop online and participate in society. We must not be left behind in an information revolution, or allow our children to settle for lower expectations. Online learning is not a good substitute for school, we all know that.”

“But those of us in schools also know that our communities (and our schools) depend upon being connected and attractive to a working population, so that our children are not disadvantaged just because they live in one of the most beautiful parts of England”.

A recently released Parliamentary report identified the South Molton rural area as having the slowest broadband in North Devon, and overall one of the slowest parts of the country.

The campaign has featured on the national and regional news, including interviews on BBC News, Radio 5 Live, ITV Westcountry and BBC Spotlight. The school is carrying out a survey among pupils and parents and the results will be sent to North Devon MP Selaine Saxby.

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Victorian tourist attraction gets 21st century broadband Engineers scaled the 862 foot incline to connect the historic Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway to full fibre broadband, futureproofing the iconic North Devon tourist attraction for generations to come.

The project involved installing new cabling up the entire length of the historic railway track. Ashley Clarke, general manager of the cliff railway said, “We’re a major yearround employer, and better connectivity will mean being able to run our business more efficiently. This is an exciting moment in our proud engineering history”.

Gigabit broadband will now be available at the cliff railway and the tourist information centre

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Openreach engineers will also be building the infrastructure to allow homes and businesses in Lynton and Lynmouth to upgrade to full fibre broadband.

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Walkers and dog owners urged to act reponsibly

Photo: Pete Robinson

With more people using Devon’s public rights of way and trails for their daily exercise during lockdown, Devon County Council says it is receiving increasing complaints from landowners, especially about livestock being disturbed by dogs.

When walking your dog in areas used by other people they advise that dogs are kept on a lead, especially if a ‘social distance’ of two metres can’t be achieved.

Farmers also warn care must be taken when approaching animals with their young. Pregnant ewes and newborn lambs are especially vulnerable at this time of year. Crops have also been damaged by walkers straying off footpaths.

Devon County Council leader John Hart said, “We know that exercising and enjoying green space is vital to people’s physical and mental wellbeing, but we would urge everyone to respect the land and livestock, and to give others plenty of space. Dogs must be kept under control.”

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Will you drive electric?

Nine out of ten Devon residents say they aim to buy an electric vehicle (EV) by 2025 according to the results of a survey of more than 1700 people just released.

And a third said they aimed to replace their petrol or diesel car for an EV within five years. Only six per cent of those questioned said that they would ‘never’ buy an electric car or van.

Emma Fancett took part in the survey, and has already made the switch to drive electric.

“I’m excited to see new chargers popping up around Devon, helping us to make cleaner transport choices,” she said. “It felt like a gamble when we switched to an electric car for our family in 2019. We had no off-street parking and there were no public charge points in our area.

I think it won’t be long before switching to an EV will be a no-brainer decision.”

As reported in last month’s Molton Monthly, the first electric vehicle charging points are up and running at Pathfields Business Park in South Molton (below), and North Devon Council has launched a scheme to introduce them to all its car parks this year.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s cabinet member for Highways Management, says, “The survey has shown that increasing numbers of people are considering exchanging their vehicle for an electric one.

By continuing to improve the infrastructure across the county, I have no doubt that we will continue to see an uptake in those choosing electric vehicles in Devon.”

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Testing times Mass Covid-19 testing started last month at Chulmleigh College.

The announcement that schools will be carrying out testing of all staff and pupils on a regular basis was made over the Christmas holidays.

Staff training and initial testing was completed, and the school would like to thank the catering team for helping and supporting them by swapping roles and carrying out tests. Other members of staff and volunteers are also getting ready to join the team in order to test the pupils.

Deputy Executive Head Teacher Neil Payne is pictured left taking his first test, which involves swabbing the throat and nose. His result came back negative.

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Hospital trusts set to merge Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust and the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust have received the go-ahead from NHS England and NHS Improvement, to continue working on plans to formally join together by April 2022.

Suzanne Tracey, chief executive of both NDHT and the RD&E says, “This partnership is focused on benefitting patients and staff across Northern and Eastern Devon. Both trusts face many of the same challenges - ensuring we have enough staff, responding to the Covid-19 pandemic, managing our waiting lists and transforming services.”

Health bosses say North Devon has a track record of innovation and adaptability, while Exeter is seen as a centre of excellence in research, with teaching and links to the university and a positive reputation for many of its clinical services.

Suzanne added, “Both trusts have something to offer the other, and it is clear that our strengthened partnership can make a real difference to our communities and our staff across Northern and Eastern Devon.”

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Big offers for music maestro Sixth form student Max Lo has been awarded a scholarship to study for a music degree at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama - and a place at the Royal Academy of Music.

Max (pictured right), who has been at West Buckland School since he joined in Year 10, specialises in clarinet and saxophone.

Director of Music, Nick Smith, says, “Despite the setbacks and frustrations that the pandemic causes, our musicians are still doing really well. Max’s achievement should not be underestimated as the Guildhall and Royal Academy are amongst the most prestigious institutions in the world, and only accept the very best musicians. We are all very proud of him.”

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Play equipment grant New play equipment has been installed in Swimbridge thanks to a ‘Community Councillor Grant’ from North Devon Council. £700 was given to Swimbridge Parish Council and has been put towards the new play area which includes a wooden climbing frame, slides and a zip wire (right).

Chulmleigh refugee approval The Chulmleigh Community Welcome group (pictured right) says it has received full approval from the Home Office to welcome a refugee family to the town. It follows a year of fundraising and form filling to reach this pivotal stage.

We hope to bring you the full story in next month’s Molton Monthly magazine.

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Bird flu warning Animal welfare experts are reminding owners to house their birds to protect again the latest outbreak of bird flu.

All poultry and captive birds including hens, ducks and geese in Great Britain must be housed - this is the best way to keep them away from wild birds who could infect them with avian influenza.

The British Hen Welfare Trust, based at Rose Ash, says if it’s not possible to house your birds for welfare reasons, you must keep them in a fully enclosed or netted area.

Food and water must also be kept undercover, and all ponds and any other standing water should be fenced off. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the charity’s website: bhwt.org.uk/news/tip-for-keeping-your-hens-safe-under-a-housing-order/

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Index of advertisers Accounts & Bookkeeping Elaine Fields p43 NOIS Business Services p7 Philip Milton p59 Agricultural Services Bobcat Hire p39 Jack Croft Contractors p38 Andrew Symons front cover Appliance Repairs Don Bailey p45 Artists Karolina Andreasova p8 Business Services South Molton Business Association p3 Building Services Bobcat Hire p39 Dan Jury p24 Darren White p24 Richard Wilmott Thatcher p22 RGB - p29 Sheds4You - back cover Stag Construction p40 Care Homes/Social Care Filo Project p37 Cleaning Services Allshines p26 Contract Cleaning p56 J&G Carpet and Window Cleaning p14 North Devon Cleaning p46 Oven Wizards p20 Computing/Internet/Websites CBM p42 PC Geek p55 Decorating Plastering Tiling Highland Artexing p26 Design Services Blue Orange Signs p27 DIY & Building Supplies MP Supplies p41 RGB p29 Electricians Chris Thorne p57 Theo Webster p58 Estate Agents Geoffrey Clapp p25 Michael Adey p19 Financial Services Lendology CIC p24 Philip Milton p59 Town & Country p32/33 Flooring Homechoose Carpets p44

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Food & Drink North Devon Hog Roast p11 The Bell Inn p10 The Grove Inn p9 Fuel Supplies Kiln Dried Logs p43 Stag Logs p44 Winson Fuels p39 Funeral Services HN Blackmore p21 Garage Services Custom Valets p4 TGB Automotive p4 Gardens & Landscaping Andrew Symons front cover Ash Moor Nursery p31 Darren White p24 DCF Fencing p30 Four Seasons p30 Sally’s Garden Services p30 Sheds4You - back cover Variety Landscapes p59 Health & Wellbeing EFT Devon p50 Electrolysis Solutions p34 Slimming World p53 Step Ahead p35 TCH Footcare p34 Home Improvements Darren Smallbone p45 Exmoor Fascias p45 Finishing Touches p15 Homechoose Carpets p44 Industrial Coating Supplies p44 The Kitchen Exchange p5 Lendology CIC p24 Living Needs Home Solutions p20 Mitchell & Dickinson p2 MP Supplies p41 RGB p29 Richard Wilmott Thatcher p22 Sheds4You - back cover Simon Cooke Interirors p48 Stove Centre p48 Variety Building p59 Insurance Services NFU Mutual p7 Town & Country p32/33 Locksmiths Darren Smallbone p45 Marketing NOIS Business Services p7 Medical South Molton Medical Centre p35

Opticians Atlantic Home Eyecare p34 Byrnes & Byrnes p13 South Molton Eyecare p5 Pest Control Pests Off p41 Pets Care for Birds & Pets p18 Cats Protection p58 Plumbing & Heating Jad Mottram p51 Mark Berry p21 MS Plumbing p44 PPE MP Supplies p41 Printing & Design Services Blue Orange Signs p27 Property Geoffrey Clapp p25 Lendology CIC p24 Marsdens Devon Cottages p25 Michael Adey p19 Pubs & Restaurants Bell Inn p10 Grove Inn p9 The Red Lion p23 Schools & Education Chittlehampton School p61 Kings Nympton School p61 North Molton School p60 South Molton Library p12 West Buckland School p60 Storage Ucanstore p49 Thatchers Richard Wilmott p22 Telephone Engineers CBM p42 Tourism North Devon Hawk Walks p12 Training RE Consultancy & Training p54 Travel Swantours p47 TV Services CBM p42 Clearview TV p45 Van Hire Forent p4 Water Services Exmoor Water p40 Windows Darren Smallbone p45 Exmoor Fascias p45 Mitchell & Dickinson p2

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Local contact numbers

Utility Services - emergencies South West Water 0344 346 2020 Western Power 105 or 0800 678 3105 British Gas 0800 111 999 Local Community Services Devon & Cornwall Police 101 (non emergency) 999 (emergency) Citizen’s Advice Bureau 03444 111 444 South Molton Town Council/Tourist Info 01769 572501 South Molton Library 01769 572128 Swimming Pool 01769 572522 Children’s Centre 03300 415 493 Learn Devon 0345 155 1014 Go North Devon including: North Devon Ring & Ride/Shopmobility 01271 328866 Age UK Devon 0333 241 2340 South Molton Volunteer Bureau 01769 573167 Wiltshire Farm Foods (home meal deliveries) 01769 573135

Health Centres & Hospitals South Molton Medical Centre 01769 573101 Chulmleigh 01769 580295 NHS Direct 111 (non emergency) North Devon District Hospital 01271 322577 South Molton Community Hospital 01769 572164 Churches Parish Church - St Mary Magdalene 01769 572079 Catholic Church of St Joseph 01271 343312 Our Lady & St. Benedict Church 07851 187335 Baptist Church 01769 574365 Gospel Hall 01769 572908 Methodist Church 01769 572637 One Way Community Church 01769 572786 Quakers 01271 344203 To minimise the environmental impact of this magazine, Molton Monthly is printed in the West Country using vegetable based inks on uncoated sustainable paper.

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