Life - the tortoise and the hare

by Roger Hill

I was asked by Peter, our editor, to take some photos of our visit to the Devon County Show, one of which I could use for this month’s article. Honestly, there were so many choices from prizewinning cattle and sheep, to both modern and vintage machinery. Crafts in abundance and so many countryside pursuits from heavy horses to dog agility.

All this plus much much more can be found at our forthcoming local agricultural shows such as our Mid Devon Show on July 27th swiftly followed by North Devon on August 7th and others. To me though it is the people that make these events. Catching up with friends old and new. Discussing our respective lives including ups and downs.

Two aspects come to the fore - mental health and safety awareness. Farmers typically work alone and for long hours. Pressure can build in an effort to get the job done resulting in stress and accidents.

That’s why I chose the adjacent photo. Not for novelty but as a lesson. It’s not always wise to be the hare in striving for the finishing line. Why not be the tortoise? Slow down, take a deep breath and you’ll get there calmly and safely.

‘Til next time, Roger #TuppertheTractor (tupperthetractor.com)

Organisers say that plans are progressing well for the return of South Molton’s popular carnival in October, with the theme of ‘Be Yourself’.

It is set to take place on Saturday, October 12th, with the main parade setting off around the town at 6pm.

Parade entry forms & conditions are now available on their Facebook page (South Molton Carnival 2024), together with the ‘Carnival Ambassador’ application form. You can also download a drawing competition template for younger children.

Printed copies are available from the Carnival Communication Points; Bar 27, The Cheese Larder, Rachael’s Bakery, The Rotary Shop & The Amory Centre in South Molton. Posters are being distributed soon.

Last held in 2018, South Molton Carnival had to be cancelled due to bad weather in 2019 and then Covid restrictions in 2020.

The volunteers organising this year’s parade say a lot of hard work has already been done to put on a great event for the community.

If you would like to support the carnival or make a donation to the South Molton Carnival Fund, please contact Claire Bracher at Bar 27 on Broad Street, or email: info@bar27.co.uk