Community News

Link Road work latest

Local people have been expressing their concern about the perceived lack of progress with the A361 upgrade works, especially with the diversion needed at the Borners Bridge junction between North and South Molton. The £63 million project is scheduled to be finished in December 2023.

Lynda Sudlow, the public liaison officer for the construction company Griffiths, sent Molton Monthly the following update: “The works to date have avoided environmentally sensitive areas. Dormice being present along the intended route has substantially restricted works, and any works within a water course has been restricted by legal constraints between the first week in

Borners Bridge junction - photo by Peter Robinson

June and the end of September because of spawning fish.”

“The site looks rather barren without the trees and stumps, also soil forming materials are currently being removed and pre-earthwork drainage ditches are being constructed.”

“So now we are moving into a more intense period over the summer with earthworks and the construction of culvert extension structures across the site.”

“One section to note is the construction of the new Landkey junction Roundabout, which is an area that will be prioritised.”

“We will also be carrying out a lot of work at the Borners Bridge junction at South Molton, initially extending the culvert that will then allow earthworks and carriageway works to form a new elongated roundabout junction.”

“We will continue to update the local press with progress on the scheme, and we wish to thank all the local communities for their continued patience and understanding.”

You can find the latest information on the Griffiths website: community.alungriffiths. co.uk/projects-in-your-area/north-devonlink-road/

It was full steam ahead for the South Molton Vintage Rally, despite the best efforts of the weather, over the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend of June 4th and 5th.

Because of Covid-19 restrictions, it’s the first time the popular event could be held for more than two years. It raises thousands of pounds for local charities and good causes.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to the 2022 South Molton Vintage Rally, and most especially the Govier family at Great Hele Barton who allowed their land to be transformed into a rally site and car park,” said Linda Regan from SMVRC.

“There are very many people that generously gave assistance advice and time to prepare and present the two day event - pulling together and working as a team enabled the rally to happen.”

Vintage tractor parade - photo by George Tyacke

“A very big THANK YOU to all of the exhibitors who brought their engines and machines to display and parade; to all of you that came through the pay gate to the show, this made all of the efforts worthwhile, and to everyone who bought draw tickets before and during the rally weekend.”

Young Noah Trevena (right) has brought flower power to South Molton Community Hospital, in tribute to his nan Pat Lock - who has retired after 33 years working there as a Patient Services Assistant.

His colourful planter is part of the South Molton in Bloom entry, and the eight year old will be a guest of honour at the judging which takes place in the town on July 11th.

He already has his own family business ‘Noah’s Perfect Plants’ and regularly raises money for charity with his flower sales.

Noah’s nan Pat (right with red hat), recently had a dream come true when she was invited to a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace in honour of her long service at the community hospital.

The old charter fair in Chulmleigh, that has taken place every year since 1253, will run between July 26th and July 31st (see page 12 for programme of events, advert space donated by Molton Monthly).

The event royalty has been appointed (pictured right): Fair Queen - Harriet Peacock; Attendants - Milly Gibbings & Hollie Hill; Crown Bearer - Esmee Cleverdon; Chief Herald - Leo Mosley; Heralds - Ethan Suker & David Peacock.

The fair theme is the 1950s - dress up and imagine yourself back in the era of the Queen’s Coronation. There will be special emphasis on the Wednesday craft market and the Saturday parade and fancy dress competition, with prizes for the best dressed.

A Heritage Crafts Day was held at South Molton Pannier Market on June 3rd as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Run by Arts Destination South Molton, it was opened by Lady Arran and featured a wide range of local arts and crafts displays and demonstrations. The organisers thank South Molton Town Council, Devon Community Foundation and Arts Council England for supporting the event.

Among the activites were weaving and clay workshops - photos by Karolina Andreasova