Community News

Young Ryder’s tractor treat

As an early birthday present, Andrew Symons Ltd gave young Ryder a New Holland peddle tractor, and treated him to a seat in the real thing (below and right).

It came about after his family appealed for tractor drivers to do a ‘drive by’ in South Molton to celebrate his 2nd birthday in style at the end of July.

Lee Hatters of Andrew Symons said Ryder’s story had touched everyone’s hearts

Tractor mad Ryder was born with Pierre Robins Syndrome leaving him with additional needs and a multitude of health issues that have seen him on life support twice, with frequent visits to Bristol’s children’s hospital.

Following the appeal on social media, he will be picked up from his home in a brand new Massey Ferguson tractor, and driven to M Way & Son on Pathfields Business Park where a special display of tractors has been organised by Ashley Sanders. It’s due to happen around midday on July 31st

His mum Michaela Holland said, “He really is a shining light and our warrior, he’s overcome obstacles that we were told would be impossible.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help make it a second birthday to remember: gofund.me/0ae40099

Photo: Karolina Andreasova

South Molton Town Council has appointed its mayor and deputy mayor for the year ahead. Councillor Mervyn Way has replaced Paul Henderson as mayor, with Councillor Stephen Lock as his deputy. Due to Covid-19 restrictions there isn’t a formal swearing in ceremony this year.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic and the ever changing restrictions, Chulmleigh Old Fair is scheduled to go ahead at the end of July maintaining its 768 year history. Organisers say most events are outdoors, and urge everyone attending to follow the guidelines on social distancing, mask wearing and hand washing. All events and timings are subject to change.

Tuesday 27th July

Spot the Oddity and Scarecrow competition 6.30pm Church Service 7.00pm Procession of royalty, town crier, fair opening and money scramble 8.00pm Races for children in Fore Street and Higher Beings Circus act

Wednesday 28th July

Craft Market in the Shippons (9.30am-3pm) Flower Festival Country fair and Sheep Show, with entertainers, vintage vehicles and dog show Golf Challenge begins Gig at the Golf Club

Thursday 29th July

Junior Sports Day (tbc) Children’s party

Friday 30th July

Horse Show Treasure Trail Young Footballers’ competition

Saturday 31st July

Orienteering Fancy Dress Carnival Fun and games with entertainers

Chulmleigh Old Fair royalty for 2021: Fair Queen – Katie Elder and left to right in front, Herald – Stanley, Attendant - Eliza, Crown Bearer - Scarlett, Attendant – Helena, Herald – Rory

Celebrity Joe Wicks supports local youth homeless charity

The Amber Foundation at Chawleigh has announced that the well-known lifestyle and fitness coach Joe Wicks (right) has agreed to become the charity’s new patron.

“Being a child growing up in a family with experience of addiction and chaos, I am reminded just how important places like this are for people who need some love and support, which is why I’m delighted to become a patron,” said Joe.

“Amber is a place that truly cares and wants to see people live a healthier and happier life. We both share this mission and it is important to me that I do anything that I can to help this work continue. I hope my involvement can lead to even more people receiving help and support in the future.” Paul Rosam, Chief Executive at Amber said, “We’re thrilled to have Joe Wicks as our patron. He is passionate about helping people lead healthy lives and giving young people the opportunity to learn about, and take part in, activities to develop health and fitness.”

“This is a key part of our support at Amber, and it really helps the homeless young people who stay here to gain the resilience to be able to leave their troubled pasts behind and transform their lives.” More information: amberweb.org

Village pub saved

Campaigners have called time on their plans to save the Earl of Portsmouth pub in Chawleigh after a buyer came forward wanting to take it over.

The Earl of Portsmouth Preservation Society had been trying to raise more than £200,000 during the pandemic so that the closed pub could be taken over and run by the village community.

All those who bought shares in the project are due to get their money refunded. The campaign group thanked everyone for their support and said they’re looking forward to their first pint when the Earl reopens.

Help create an interactive poetry map for South Molton Community Woodland as part of this summer’s Deep Roots Festival.

Courage Copse Creatives CIC are asking local people to write poems about Ash Trees - these can be anything to do with Ash, including effects of Ash Die-back. Submission deadline is July 11th, with details online: bit.ly/AshPoems

Don’t know where to start? Pop into South Molton Library where you’ll find an ‘Inspiration Board and Ash Treasure Box’. Plus free workshop for adults at Courage Copse on Sunday July 11th, 10am - 3pm.

For all of July’s Deep Roots Arts Festival events see the advert on page 11 (advert space donated by Molton Monthly).

A new group is starting in South Molton to bring you the exotic sound and rhythm of Samba!

The one-hour classes start on Wednesday July 21st, with beginners at 7.30pm and those more experienced at 8.30pm. The venue is the Dance Centre in Mill Street South Molton.

Non-profit group South Molton Samba will provide all drums, bells and whistles!

The first evening is a taster session and will be free. The classes are every Wednesday for a total of forty weeks in a year (price £18 per month). You can find South Molton Samba on Facebook or email: brian.mcgovern@hotmail.com

Samba leader is Trinidad born Richie Dickson

Can you help with information about this photo (right)? It’s believed to be the last service at the Bible Christian Chapel in Charles village and is being used to launch a history exhibition.

Organisers of the Charles Village History Exhibition would like to know if anyone recognises any family members or have other memories of the picture. They’re also looking for personal stories and history from anyone who has lived there. The exhibition is open from July 17th to through to September 11th at St John the Baptist Church, Charles EX32 7PX (from 10am daily).

Estate agent takeover

Michael Adey Property is taking over the long established South Molton estate agents Geoffrey Clapp Associates this summer. The new venture will operate in East Street.

Community group closes

South Molton Community Connections based at Amory House is closing due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lack of volunteers. They thank all their many supporters.