Oke Links - September/October 2017

OKE LINKS

September / October 2017

Issue 5

Okehampton • Chichacott • Stockley • Belstone • Bondleigh • North Tawton • Sampford Courtenay Taw Green • Sticklepath • South Zeal • Throwleigh • Wonson • Lydford • Lewdown • Bridestowe Sourton • Meldon • Boasley Cross • Bratton Clovelly • Portgate • Lewtrenchard

t u o b A d Out an n m u t u A this A FREE HLY BI-MONT E MAGAZIN D DELIVERE

BY THE AIL ROYAL M

FROM HARVEST TO HALLOWE’EN, THERE’S AN EVENT TO SUIT EVERYONE IN THE OKEHAMPTON AREA

INSIDE: LOCAL PEOPLE • SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT • WHAT’S ON • GARDENING • HISTORY • NOTICEBOARD SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Outside learning is so much fun!

TRAIN TALK

What’s happening with the railway?

An update from OkeRail Forum

WHAT’S ON

Carnivals, a folk weekend and a Big Breakfast

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• Landlord & Tenant

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My goodness this year is flying by! The new school year is starting, while 2017 heads into its last few months. It’s time for apples to be harvested and in this issue, one of our local people interviewees, Alison McIlwraith, has a keen interest in the size of the crop, being a traditional cider producer with a passion for nature and conservation.

The mayor of Okehampton Jan Goffey is another of our local people. She is a hugely energetic lady with a deep love of her town but admits that her role carries little power – unlike the subject of our history feature this issue, John Prickman, who was the town’s mayor in 1891. In those days, the mayor was a powerful figure with a range of responsibilities ranging from slaughter houses to lighting and a lot more besides.

Such a busy man may well have suffered with stress at times, which can result in high blood pressure, or hypertension to give it the medical term. High blood pressure is often known as the silent killer, as there are seldom any warning signs that a person is suffering with the condition. Judith Magowan, the hypertension lead nurse at Okehampton Medical Centre, explains why it’s so important to get your blood pressure checked regularly in our health article on page 23.

And on a healthy theme, the Okehampton area has miles and miles of the most beautiful countryside to get out and explore on foot. This issue, Denise Horner describes a beautiful circular walk from the pretty village of Belstone – ideal for an afternoon’s ramble.

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I hope you enjoy this issue of Oke Links as much as I have enjoyed meeting and interviewing the people that feature in its pages. If you have an interesting story to tell or know of someone inspiring or intriguing – please do get in touch!

WELCOME & CONTENTS

CONTENTS 5. NOTICEBOARD North Tawton is on the lookout for firefighters, the Men in Sheds project has been launched and a new walking map has been published.

10. SPORTS CLUB NEWS Rugby in North Tawton and the rise and rise of Okehampton Hockey Club.

12. LOCAL PEOPLE A young farmer with a passion for running, a chat with the mayor and a lady that loves to forage!

18. SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Lifton Primary School pupils head outside the classroom – and onto the moor.

20. CHARITY FOCUS The Mary Budding Trust gives invaluable support to children and their families.

26. GARDENING Tim Penrose explains that you can grow bamboo in a small space.

45. MUSIC AND ART The Baring Gould Folk Weekend and Jukebox Jewels!

48. FEATURE The latest news from Oke Rail and the campaign to bring a regular service back to Okehampton.

54. HISTORY Mike and Hilary Wreford tell the story of a civic leader in Okehampton at the end of the 19th century.

Jane Jane Honey – Editor. Please contact me via email at: jane.honey@linksmagazines.co.uk or 07971 917071.

The deadline for any inclusions in the November/ December/January issue is 6th October 2017 We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our many contributors for so kindly giving us their time and expertise, in helping keep our magazine so interesting to all.

OKE Links is produced by Olijam Communications Ltd. THE OLIJAM TEAM:

Editor: Editorial Director: Publisher: Design: Advertising:

Jane Honey Lizzie Watt Tim Randell Sara Venner, Julian Rees Jane Daniel, Victoria Smith

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Email: advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk or visit our website: www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk to view our rate card.

Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the editorial team.

We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oke Links or Olijam Communications Ltd accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. All data contained in advertisements are subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and are accepted by us in good faith at the time of going to press. Reproduction of editorial is strictly prohibited without prior permission from the publisher.

All rights reserved copyright © 2017

3

NOTICEBOARD

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Town councillor Christine Marsh, who is also the treasurer of Okehampton Community Archive, said: ‘It’s been going on for about ten years now really, from start to finish. As a town council we still maintain the Simmons’ graves and I think it’s important because there’s no-one else to do it, no immediate family, and Sidney Simmons gave so much to Okehampton, I think this was the least we could do – I think it’s brilliant that the project has finally been completed.’

A new headstone in memory of the sister of Okehampton’s greatest benefactor has finally been placed in position at All Saints Church.

Sophia Simmons, the sister of Sydney Simmons who left so many legacies to Okehampton, died on June 25, 1869 at the age of 39. Her gravestone, in the family plot at All Saints, had been deteriorating due to water damage and the town council has been working to replace the stone for many years.

The project has been complicated, requiring much negotiation between Okehampton Town Council and the Diocese of Exeter.

Christine said while Sidney Simmons left Okehampton to make his fortune, his sister Sophia stayed in her home town and worked as a shop assistant. Sidney outlived her by many years, finally dying on 29 April, 1924, aged 83. ‘He left 38 bequests in his will, to all sorts of different people and organisations, like schools for the poor, homes for single mums, all people of a poor ilk. He was very generous and very much ahead of his time. He also gave the town its iconic castle, land for the town’s beautiful park, Okehampton Golf Club, the bowling club and almshouses.

‘Okehampton wouldn’t be as you see it today without Sidney Simmons,’ said Christine.

Walks in South Zeal and South Tawton A new leaflet featuring a selection of mapped and described walks in and around the beautiful north Dartmoor area of South Zeal and South Tawton has just been published by South Tawton Parish Council. The leaflet also identifies points of interest along the routes, including historical facts.

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The five walks range from a 2 mile/ 3.2 km route (approximately 1 hour) through to 5 miles/ 8 km (2.5 – 3 hours). Four of the routes are circular, starting and finishing at the car park in South Zeal Recreation Ground. They include a pavement only option, a walk to the nearby Ramsley Common viewpoint and 19th century mine workings, a boardwalk over wetland meadow

plus scenic woodland. There is a route along the Tarka Trail, to join up with neighbouring Sampford Courtenay’s own village walks trail, via Taw Green and South Tawton through to the moor and Belstone via Sticklepath. Lastly you can take a walk along tracks and open moorland to the well known local Shilley (Shelley) pool.

The leaflet can be downloaded from South Tawton Parish Council’s website www.southtawtonparishcouncil.org.uk/ southtawtonparishcouncil/activities/footpaths) and as an A3 fold-out colour leaflet, available from the shops, pubs and other venues, both in and around the parish.

The leaflet was funded both by a grant from Devon County Council and South Tawton Parish Council, with additional advice and support from the local Ranger at the Dartmoor National Park Authority.

5

NOTICEBOARD

NOTICEBOARD

Men in Sheds!

A BBQ was held recently to celebrate the completion of the first phase of a ‘Men in Sheds’ project in Okehampton.

Support for Hospiscare Hospiscare is a local charity, providing free, high quality care and support to people with a progressive life-limiting illness and those close to them across Exeter, Mid and East Devon and North Dartmoor, from Highampton to Lustleigh and from Lydford to the Teign Valley.

The incredibly valuable work carried out by the Hospiscare team can only continue thanks to fundraising. For example, this spring, Angela and Heather from the Hospiscare Okehampton Fundraising Support Group picked up a cheque from Waitrose staff in Okehampton for £500. The donation was given to Hospiscare as part of Waitrose’s Community Matters scheme.

‘We really appreciate Waitrose supporting local charities like ours,’ said Hospiscare community fundraiser Susie Healey.

‘Our Okehampton support group are all volunteers who work

so hard raising funds for Hospiscare. It’s fantastic when a business in the area gets involved and contributes to the team’s fund raising efforts.’

Susie said volunteers were always very much welcomed by the fundraising teams. She added: ‘If anyone reading this has some spare time and would like to join a Hospiscare support group in the North Dartmoor area, we would love to hear from you. There are fundraising support groups in Chagford and Okehampton and it’s a great opportunity to make new friends as well as helping a local charity.’

For more information contact Susie Healey on 01392 688062 or email s.healey@hospiscare.co.uk

Your Fire Station needs YOU! On-call firefighters are a group of community-spirited men and women who are called into action by fire control operators. They come from a variety of backgrounds such as those who are self-employed, full time parents, trades people, administrators, shopkeepers, but they all share a common purpose of wanting to give something back to the community.

North Tawton Fire Station is currently recruiting and would love to hear from anyone who would like to serve their community by becoming a retained firefighter. A spokesperson for the fire station said: ‘You will be providing a part-time service, responding to fire and emergency calls. This is an

opportunity to be part of a highly trained, tight-knit team. It is exciting, challenging and most of all, rewarding.

‘Incidents can range from attending fires, floods, road traffic accidents, chemical spills and talking to your community about fire prevention. You may be called out two/three times a week for one/two hours. This can be during the day, evenings or weekend, but you can choose the hours when you are available, all we ask is for you to be flexible.

In addition, employers are often interested in the benefits and transferable skills the fire service can offer in your workplace.

For more details see the North Tawton Fire Station Facebook page or call 07850 963608.

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Men in Sheds projects are springing up all over the country and for a long time there have been discussions about getting one up and running in Okehampton. After a long search failed to find a suitable existing shed, it was decided to build one on charity land on the community garden site in Fatherford Lane.

The shed is now nearly complete and has been built from scratch entirely by volunteers.

Stephen Cook, one of the organisers, said: ‘We have landed on our feet with a spectacular setting – the shed has a veranda which looks out at a panoramic view of Dartmoor.

I think a lot of tea will be drunk on that veranda!

‘The project aims to bring men together to use their skills for the good of the community – to provide a “man cave”

where things can be made, mended and adapted. There comes a time in every man’s life when the call of the shed becomes strong – that is why Men in Sheds is a worldwide phenomenon! We hope to be properly operational by the late summer, but anyone is welcome to come up during the build phase. We are there most Saturdays.’

Anyone interested in finding out more can contact the organisers by phoning 01837 659297.

Queen Bees Welcome Scientist Bridestowe Queen Bees, a social group for ladies in the village and surrounding area, will be learning about the fascinating work carried out at Plymouth Marine Laboratory at their meeting in September.

The guest at the meeting, on September 21, is scientist Phil Nightingale. Previous speakers at the regular meetings, on the third Thursday of the month, have included Adrian Brooks, the vicar of Bridestowe, who gave an interesting account of his work with travellers and Kathy Curtis from the Tropic company, which produces skin products without the addition of harmful chemicals.

The Queen Bees were formed in January, after the winding up of Bridestowe’s WI group. Trish Butler, the group’s secretary, said: ‘We are a friendly group of ladies, there were about 13 or 14 originally but there are about 28 of us now — we have certainly attracted some younger ladies and hopefully we will continue to do so. We have workshops and speakers and we meet on the third Thursday of the month, currently at 8pm.’

The ladies held a very successful garden party at the vicarage in Bridestowe during June, raising approximately £500 — half the proceeds were donated to the parish council to help with its project to install night landing lights for Devon Air ambulance, with the remainder going towards ongoing running costs of the Queen Bees.

Anyone interested in joining Bridestowe Queen Bees should call chairman Diane Brooks on 01837 861580.

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7

NOTICEBOARD

NOTICEBOARD

I’m planning a long holiday and have been struggling to find travel insurance for a reasonable price. I’ve found a good deal from a Facebook advert but my friend thinks it might be a scam. How can I be sure if it’s legitimate?

Your friend is right to raise the possibility that it might be a scam and you should do some research on the company before making a purchase.

Insurance is a financial product and the seller must be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Check they’re listed on the financial watchdog’s register which can be viewed at www.register.fca.org.uk.

If they’re not named, take your business to a different provider as the seller will not be legitimate. If they are listed, it’s still worth doing further checks on them.

A good starting point is comparing the price of the insurance deal with similar offers from competitors. Big discounts are often a tell-tale sign of a scam, but it could also be that the policy is cheap because it doesn’t provide adequate cover.

Ask for a copy of the full policy so you can check it against where you’re going and what you’re doing. If the seller won’t provide one, or says they will only give it to you it after you’ve paid, don’t give them your business.

Once you know the seller is legitimate use a secure payment method, such as a money transfer service like PayPal, to pay for the insurance. Don’t pay with a bank transfer, and don’t go ahead with the deal if they ask you to.

Local NHS Provision

Help is at Hand When Under Pressure

At their meeting on 18th July, Okehampton Labour Party members discussed the proposed closure of the local maternity unit and unanimously condemned this act, in a rural area with so many potentially isolated and vulnerable residents.

The quality of important relationships have a very significant influence upon how well, or how healthy, a person is feeling.

If those relationships are under pressure – whether it’s the intimate relationship with a partner, or an inherited relationship with parents, or the precious relationships with children – then it is not unusual for the sadness associated with that to creep into all other aspects of life. That sadness, those struggles in a valued relationship, show themselves in different ways in different people. For some people, they may simply feel generally ‘unwell’. Others may become grumpy, and short tempered, and snappy, even when they really don’t mean to be. Others may feel extraordinarily tired, or world weary. Or maybe one just feels very lonely.

The meeting heard that the ‘vision’ of the NHS NEW Devon Clinical Commissioning Group for the Okehampton area is that ‘patients will receive the best affordable healthcare available from within current resources and this will be easily accessible to local people’.

A lively debate followed as to how affordability and current resources are entirely dependant on how far the government are prepared to support the NHS and it was generally agreed that the withdrawal of services certainly does nothing to promote easy accessibility.

An explanation was given as to how the Health and Social Care Act 2012, brought into being by the recent Conservative/ Liberal Democrat coalition Government, created the 211 Clinical Commissioning Groups we have today and had the effect of further distancing the government from accountability for what health services are provided.

This means that the government can no longer guarantee patients a universal service, which was one of the founding principles of the NHS when it was set up by the post-war Labour Government.

The latest rounds of cuts are part of the government enforced ‘Sustainability and Transformation Plans’ designed to achieve £22bn of ‘efficiency’ savings by 2020/21.

Now of course if your car was making an uncharacteristic noise you’d pop it into the garage. And if you started experiencing regular pains in your body, after mentioning it to a couple of friends and the pain persisting, you’d be likely to make an appointment with your GP. When relationships are in crisis, however, it does not always feel ok, or even useful, to talk to friends, or ‘bother’ the doctor.

For further help and advice, contact your nearest Citizens Advice.

For the most up-to-date advice, please visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk pop into your local office or call Adviceline on 03444 111 444

Members were reminded that a Labour Government would be committed to a fully funded universal healthcare service run according to need and not to satisfy the profit motive nor subject to market forces as is increasingly the case.

Okehampton Citizens Advice (Ockment Centre) Tues & Weds 10-4pm and Fri 10-1pm www.ruraldevoncab.org.uk

The meeting resolved to express their concerns in a letter to Mel Stride MP, asking him to justify his government’s retrograde actions.

Ray Aplin, Chairman

Exeter & District Relate are very pleased to be able to increase their availability in Okehampton, at the Ockment Centre. They also offer counselling in Exeter, Barnstaple, Honiton, Tiverton and Taunton. Simply put, most people who talk to Relate feel better about themselves and their relationships for having given themselves that opportunity.

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Members were reminded that our local MP has expressed his disappointment at the planned closure despite having consistently voted with the government in favour of these cuts.

Many of those present were involved in the recent election campaign and reported the level of alarm that is felt by the local population about the ever worsening state of the NHS, that only functions as well as it does through the sheer dedication and determination of its staff.

‘Relate’ has been talking to people about their important relationships for decades. Counsellors meet with couples and with individuals (whether or not they are currently ‘in a relationship’) and they also work with families and with young people. Relate offers a confidential service.

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9

SPORTS CLUB NEWS

SPORTS SPORTS CLUB NEWS CLUB NEWS

A Flourishing Club with Great Facilities!

North Tawton Rugby Club is entering its 133rd season and currently runs two teams. The men play in Devon Tribute 2 and the ladies’ team has just reformed and are getting back into the league system.

The club, which has fantastic facilities and a strong presence in the local community, has been improved with the use of floodlights which are due to be completed before the start of the coming season. Looking forward, the mens’ team is looking to put the heartache of last season behind them and gain promotion to Devon 1.

Club chairman James Miller said: ‘The long term ambition is for the mens’ team to play in Cornwall/Devon, but this can’t be

achieved without the formation of a seconds team. This is the main aim for the club this coming season.

‘In addition, the club is looking to rebuild the ladies’ team and compete to a high standard as they have done in previous seasons. As well as the rugby, the club is a fantastic venue for events, weddings and parties.

There are many events being planned at North Tawton RFC throughout the coming season, including a bonfire night on October 27, the grand opening and switch on of the new floodlights, plus much more.

If you think rugby is for you, or you want to give it a go, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the chairman and captain, James Miller, jamesmiller14@hotmail.co.uk

KEEP WiNTER AT BAY...

An Award-Winning Club!

Hockey is thriving in Okehampton. Both the Men, who recently celebrated their 25th anniversary, and the Ladies, who will be marking their centenary in 2018, have first teams playing at the highest level ever. The Men play in GoCrea8 league South Division 1, stretching from Penzance to Chard, while the Ladies are in West Clubs Women’s Hockey League South Division, again covering similar distances. In addition there is a second XI for the Men and two additional ladies’ teams playing regular league hockey.

There is a large junior section with over 70 youngsters from nine years upwards receiving coaching on Saturday mornings.

Boys’ and girls’ teams compete in county development tournaments at U12 and U14 level. The club assists with after school training sessions in several local primary schools and Okehampton College. An annual primary school festival and the West Devon Primary Quicksticks tournament are organised in partnership with OCRA. For those ladies not wanting to commit to regular league hockey there are ‘back to hockey’ sessions on a Monday

evening offering a fun and informal way to play for ladies of all abilities.

The club has use of the Pavilion in the Park as its clubhouse and consequently has gained an excellent reputation for social events such as quiz nights, curry evenings and race nights. The Men’s club recently received the Devon Hockey Hospitality Club of the Year award for the second time in three seasons, along with the Team Discipline of the Year award, reflecting the welcoming nature of the club and the importance of sportsmanship to its members.

A spokesman for the club said: ‘We are always keen to attract new members who are welcome to attend Men’s training on Tuesday evenings, Ladies’ training on Wednesday evenings or Ladies’ ‘back to hockey’ sessions on Monday evenings.’

If you would like more information please contact: John Jarvis on 01837 52482 or thistlebank@tiscali.co.uk; Lesley Bingham 07730654442 or okehockey-secretary@homail.com or visit www.Okehamptonhockeyclub.clubbuzz.co.uk

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11

LOCAL PEOPLE

NOTICEBOARD LOCAL PEOPLE

Katie Littlejohns

sports massage and they’re having a nice meal together in the evening. Definitely my sort of hen night!’ l

A young farmer with a passion for running…

An Okehampton girl through and through, Katie works on the family farm near Meldon with her parents, Martin and Sarah.

Now aged 25, she wasn’t sure about taking the university route when she left Okehampton College and with Mum and Dad’s encouragement, she combines working on the farm with a part time job at her former school, as a food technician.

managed it in under four hours, which I was quite surprised about!’

Juggling animal husbandry (the farm has Hereford X cows and some 600 sheep), with general farm work would be enough to keep anyone fit, but Katie is a self-confessed obsessive when it comes to putting on the trainers and taking to the hills.

Two more marathons followed, one in Manchester to raise money for a cancer charity, as her uncle was having treatment for the condition at the time. Bitten by the running bug she joined Okehampton Running Club and now competes regularly, mainly in 10k and half marathon races and has broken several club records. But her real love is running off-road and last year she was proud to take the title in the Great West Fell Run, a six-mile event that is partially self navigated.

She took up running when she was doing her A-levels as a way of coping with exam stress. ‘I had a friend who was running a marathon and being a bit naive I thought – ‘I can do that’. I was probably the least prepared person there but I

Taking off-road running to the next level, she has now qualified as a fell trail leader, enabling her to take athletes out into the countryside on off-road runs. The move has also taken the process of farm diversification along a new route. ‘We have a

big holiday let that sleeps 13 so it’s the ideal size for groups of people and I thought I could organise running holidays. The fitness industry is massive and I just feel so lucky that I can run in such beautiful countryside, I want to share it with other runners. I started to build the business last year, we’ve now got a website and I’ve had T-shirts done — the important stuff!’

T-shirts aside, Katie was delighted to host a fell trail leadership course herself this summer, organised by British Athletics and she is due to attend the National Running Show in January 2018 to promote her business. At the time of our interview, Dartmoor Running Holidays was looking forward to welcoming a somewhat athletic hen party in September.

‘They want to arrive about 10am, go running for a couple of hours, they’ve got a bounce and groove class organised, then a

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Being bored is a state of mind that Katie is unlikely to encounter as she says: ‘Literally one day is never the same as the next. But you can’t run a business unless you have a passion and running is my passion, so is Dartmoor and the farm, so hopefully it will all work out!’

Jane Honey

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Katie explains how her parents have encouraged her ideas for the farm business. ‘Mum has always been very supportive of my running and Dad’s always talking about diversification,’ says Katie, sitting with her leg elevated as a result of a twisted ankle getting out of the tractor. ‘The ankle means I can’t run for a few days which makes me a bit twitchy but there’s plenty of other stuff to do,’ she says. It seems there certainly is. The farm’s paperwork is her department too and in her spare time she loves to bake. ‘I am making a wedding cake for a family friend next month but thankfully it’s a naked one!’

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13

LOCAL PEOPLE

Jan Goffey A passionate and committed lady with community definitely at heart...

Jan might say that in her 70th year she doesn’t have the energy she used to have but Okehampton’s mayor most definitely still has the passion and commitment of a person half her age. This former teacher is putting in a good 37 hours a week on behalf of the community she loves and I get the feeling she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Originally from Liverpool, Jan arrived in Okehampton more than 30 years ago with her husband and three children. She taught in the town’s primary school and many of the village schools in the area until she retired. Jan gets great delight from seeing former pupils greet her from behind pushchairs.

‘I can remember a time when you stood in Fore Street and you knew virtually everyone that came up to you. It’s very different now,’ she said. ‘The town boundary is only half a mile each way from the crossroads, which is why the population doesn’t appear to change. It’s only about 7,000, but all the development is in the hamlets. Within a 15-mile radius, not including Tavistock, we have a population of around 30,000, which is a factor that has enabled us to get the railway trial between here and Exeter.’

The railway, the traffic chaos which can bring Okehampton to a halt on a regular basis and the impending changes at the town’s hospital are all issues very close to Jan’s heart and ones in which she has been heavily involved since she became a councillor seven years ago.

‘People have been asking me for the last 30 years to stand for the town council and I always said no, but I got inveigled into it – I never for one moment thought I would end up being mayor though!’ says Jan. ’People think you can wave a magic wand if you’re mayor but really we are just a glorified parish council. You can bang so many heads together but at the end of the day we don’t have any true power.’

On the subject of Okehampton’s roads, Jan explains she actually feels sorry for Devon County Council and believes they are ‘between a rock and a hard place’ when it comes to funding improvements. However, there’s no sympathy when it comes to the subject of bed closures at Okehampton Hospital.

‘I care deeply and passionately about the NHS,’ she said. ‘I think the charter says it’s for the people and free at the point of service and what they are trying to do is push us into the American system by the back door – chip, chip, chip – until there’s nothing left. In the US, unless you are employed by a

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major employer you can’t afford the insurance costs and that’s what we are heading for here, unless the entire country says enough is enough.’

When not fighting the town’s corner when it comes to health services, Jan’s favourite part of her mayoral duties is being able to meet and support the many community organisations that flourish in the Okehampton area, particularly those involved with young people.

A family woman, Jan’s three grown up children were all educated in Okehampton. She now has four granddaughters, two in Seattle, America and two in London. She was widowed for 30 years but is now happily settled with partner Lyn. In what little spare time they have, they grow vegetables at their Fatherford allotment, which she said was a great way to chill out and whenever she gets a couple of consecutive days off, she and Lyn like to take off for short breaks. She said she was very fortunate Lyn understood she was a self-confessed workaholic and she very much appreciated coming home of an evening and being able to ‘offload’.

‘I couldn’t do this job without him,’ she said.

Jane Honey

15

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Alison lives in the heart of West Devon, the family farm forming part of the parish boundary between Sampford Courtenay and Exbourne. It’s a unique environment, an ancient quarry within the boundary even qualifying as a Site of Scientific Interest (SSI).

Alison and her husband James, with children Matthew and Alice, moved to Solland Farm some 20 years ago. As experienced cider makers (they ran Inches Cider at Winkleigh prior to the move), they chose Solland precisely for its suitability for cider apple production. Alison said: ‘Almost immediately we arrived we planted 40 acres of cider fruit.

Apple trees take up to seven years to mature, so during that time we ran a warm blood stud, breeding and working horses for showjumping and dressage.’

An accident forced the cessation of the stud business, which had seen more than 100 foals born and raised at the farm, although the family still retain their ‘fat old bags’ as they affectionately call the seven remaining retired brood mares.

While the stud is no more, the cider business, which also employs Matthew and Alice, is very much full swing and is growing, with the opening last year of a farm shop, converted from the barn where their pregnant mares over-wintered.

The shop is mother and daughter’s baby – stocked with a wide range of artisan products made in Devon. Alison also bakes a tempting array of cakes and pies, with many dishes including ingredients picked on the farm. ‘I love to forage and create ideas for what I find – I will either want to cook what I find or ferment it,’ she says. ‘At this time of year we are very busy picking elderflowers. It’s quite labour intensive as they are hand-picked and trimmed. We make a syrup from the flowers which is then added to one of our ciders. This year I am going to launch an elderflower syrup.

‘We have an abundance of wild food on the farm from nuts, elderflowers, sloes to bullace, (a cross between a plum and a sloe), and we are very passionate about conservation. We have doormice, newts, barn owls, little owls; we sometimes say we have to fight the wildlife off with a stick there’s so

much of it. We have ravens too, which have a sort of uneasy truce with the buzzards on the other side of the wood.’

Alison explains the family is also keen to create wildflower meadows to benefit the bumblebees that are so important for the pollination of the apple orchards. And if all this natural bounty wasn’t enough, the farm also lies on some very interesting geological fault lines. ‘That’s why this farm was selected by the Government in the Second World War to be part of a gold survey,’ said Alison. ‘They dug several pits along the fault line and they did find gold, just not in commercially viable quantities.’

A hugely knowledgeable cider maker, Alison said her craft was more akin to that of a wine maker rather than a brewer.

The ciders made at Solland are produced from Michelin, Dabinett, Ellis Bitter, Tom Putt and Browns cider apples, the juices blended to create different styles. Many variables can affect the resultant brew including, obviously, the weather.

And unlike many producers, Alison and James don’t shake the trees to release the fruit, they wait for it to drop naturally as they feel this results in a better quality cider.

‘It’s a lot of hard work but we think it’s worth it,’ said Alison.

‘You are never going to be rich as a cider maker, but it means you are very connected with nature and the seasons. When James and I first married we always dreamed this would be what we would do; it’s amazing to have achieved it.’

Jane Honey

17

SCHOOL NEWS

SCHOOL NEWS

Taking Classes Outside high throughout, which resulted in the successful completion of the challenge.

It’s stimulating – but most of all – FUN! At Lifton Community Primary School we pride ourselves on the outdoor learning opportunities that we provide for our children. They allow the children to work in an environment away from the classroom, in a way which is stimulating and engaging. People often link outdoor learning to ‘forest school’, when really it can be as simple as taking an English lesson and delivering it outside.

At Lifton, Forest School sessions play a part in our outdoor learning provision, however, this is just a small part. Each class uses the outdoor environment at least twice a week.

Some of the lessons which the children have taken part in have included using being outside to stimulate senses for atmospheric writing, creating their own games using sticks that they have found around the school site to practise times tables, creating puddles on a hot sunny day to gain a greater understanding of evaporation and lots more!

We try to take as much of our curriculum teaching as possible outside as well as providing outdoor after school clubs.

These have included a gardening club where the children had the opportunity to plant and grow their own vegetables and a science outside club looking for mini beasts and using microscopes to investigate. Children in Year 1 to Year 4 also receive weekly Forest School sessions which are delivered by a qualified Forest School practitioner. This gives the children the opportunity to learn how to use tools in a correct and safe manner, light fires safely, create shelters outdoors and provides them with a stimulus for learning.

We have regular ‘Special Outdoor Learning’ days for the whole school where the children are able to take part in a range of different activities including creating stories using story stones, making faces out of natural resources, toasting

marshmallows and making hot chocolate on a campfire, using sticks to create 2D and 3D shapes and going on a bug hunt in our designated outdoor space. The children were all fully engaged throughout the last such event, with one child telling a member of staff: ‘This day is brilliant! We are actually learning but not having to write anything’.

‘We are actually learning – but not having to write anything!’

The children all went home smelling of bonfire smoke and telling stories to their parents of what they had done during the day! Part of our recent OFSTED report stated that ‘Pupils remarked how learning was made fun, especially outside, where the forest school activities play a significant part in the uniqueness of your school’.

This year we have further enhanced our outdoor learning opportunities by entering a year 6 team in the Junior Ten Tors Challenge. This is an annual event which has been running for over 20 years, but it was the first time that a team from Lifton Primary School had entered a team to undertake the challenge.

The children are required to choose and plan their route prior to the event, navigate their way across Dartmoor, camping overnight and cooking their own food. Leading up to the challenge they received training on how to put up tents, light camping stoves, use a map and compass and they learned how to stay safe on Dartmoor. This training was run as an after school activity over the summer term. On the first day of the event the weather was perfect for walking across Dartmoor, slightly overcast but dry. However on day two, it was a completely different story, with constant rain and thick fog. The children kept each other motivated and spirits

We have many plans to develop the outdoor learning further in our school including clearing an overgrown, unused pond in our designated outdoor space and creating a safe environment where the children will be able to take part in pond dipping. This will provide a wonderful resource for the school especially when learning about habitats in science.

Our long-term aim is to build a outdoor classroom within our school grounds to further enhance our provision of outdoor learning opportunities for all children at the school.

Carrie Honey Outdoor Learning Leader

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CHARITY FOCUS CHARITY FOCUS

CHARITY FOCUS

The Mary Budding Trust A small charity making a big difference to the lives of West Devon children with additional needs The Trust’s objective is to support children with additional needs, aged eleven or under, living within the area of Okehampton, Tavistock and surrounding villages. It is a selffunding charity which has been in existence since 2002, run by unpaid volunteers. We appreciate that each and every child has only one chance in life so our aim is, through providing grants and equipment, to give children as full and rich a life as possible and provide opportunities that might not be available without additional support.

Katie was delighted with the way we helped Kian: ‘Thank you so much for the grant for my son Kian. We are overwhelmed by it all, if there is any way we can help the trust just let us know.

He is so over the moon with the pushchair and it is amazing taking him out and not having to worry that he is going to get out and run at the road or his usual trick of stamping on the wheels half way across the road so I can’t move the pushchair.

We cannot thank you enough, it has made leaving the house enjoyable again as it was becoming very stressful.’

We can provide financial help for individual children – at home or school, or for groups of children within an educational setting. Individual families can apply (with a confirmation statement from a professional) or the request can come directly from a professional.

Where did the name come from?

The Mary Budding Trust has recently helped to fund equipment for the new sensory room at Lew Trenchard Primary School.

The £1,750 needed for the equipment had been collected in memory of Ann McDonald, who helped to establish the Trust.

Other funding has included money towards ‘Soundfield Systems’ in two primary schools, a laptop to support a child that suffers severe pain when writing and specialist computer programmes to support children having difficulty with reading, writing and spelling. The list goes on – specially adapted equipment, including wheelchairs, car seats and tricycles, iPads, laptops, special books or assistance with travel costs for intensive hospital appointments.

Appreciation from families We were delighted recently to be able to support Isabelle and her family. The family wrote: ‘Thank you so much for the funding so that we could purchase a Pulseguard sleep monitor so that we can monitor our precious Isabelle while she sleeps.

With the risk of SUDEP (Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy Patients) being terrifyingly real, it means that we know she’s safe whilst she’s sleeping, which means that we can sleep at night. We really can’t explain how much this means to our family and how it has a huge impact on our lives. Thank you so much.’

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As the medical officer for Tavistock and District, the late Dr Mary Budding devoted much of her life to the support of young children.

She came into contact with numerous families who had children with severe difficulties and recognised that there was little structured support for them so set out to rectify this. With the help of Mencap, The Mary Budding Centre was opened in 1984 in a converted Victorian cottage. At that stage, at any one time, it supported six children under five and gave the opportunity for support from psychologists, medical officers, speech therapists and other experts. It also gave parents regular access to support from professionals. In 1991, The Centre moved to a unit in Tavistock Primary School, where it still thrives and, in 2002, The Mary Budding Trust was set up.

How can you help the Trust?

All Trustees give their time freely so all money received goes directly to help families – except for the small amount that goes towards stationery and the annual website upkeep. You may have seen Trustees and friends amongst the crowds, holding buckets at the Tavistock Passion Play on Good Friday. We were tremendously grateful to the organisers for supporting the Trust and much enjoyed the friendly atmosphere. Thanks to the very generous donations we made an amazing £1,426.73 (and 10 cents!)

Can the Mary Budding Trust help you or a family you know?

If you, or someone you know, has a child (or is responsible for children) with additional needs who would benefit from a specific piece of equipment, therapy or professional support, please visit the website http://marybuddingtrust.org.uk/ and contact the Trust. Parents, carers or any professional person who is already involved in supporting the child or children can make an application.

Robin and Edwina Hill (Trustees)

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We are very grateful to anyone who will help the Trust to raise funds – however small or large. It all goes towards providing equipment and support to young children with specific needs.

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21

HEALTH HEALTH & WELLBEING & BEAUTY

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Finding and managing raised BP

Lyndridge Community Care Providing a range of services and personal care for elders in their own homes to enable them to maintain independence Day Centres

Day centres in Hatherleigh, Okehampton, Chagford, Moretonhampstead, Crediton and Whiddon Down. Wheelchair friendly mini-bus available.

Additional services

We also offer meals on wheels (Okehampton only), respite care, bathing, laundry, day care, shopping, cleaning and a sitting service.

Supported Living

For further information visit

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We can provide 24/7 care and support services for seniors within a range of homely settings in Okehampton and Crediton to actively encourage continued independent living.

We are registered with CQC, and all our staff are trained and checked to provide a quality service.

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High blood pressure

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Raised blood pressure or hypertension is a very common problem. Blood Pressure UK estimates that one in three adults in the UK has high blood pressure. Most people have no warning signs that the blood pressure is raised so it’s important to have regular BP checks to ensure that it’s in the normal range. If untreated, over time high blood pressure greatly increases the risk of stroke, heart attacks, damage to the kidneys and the eyes, heart failure and dementia.

Hypertension is usually easy to treat if picked up early and well managed through healthy lifestyle and medication.

Untreated high blood pressure overtime becomes more difficult to get under control.

What is blood pressure and how often should it be measured?

Blood pressure is a measurement of the strength of blood pushing against the side of the blood vessels. The first (or top) number is your systolic blood pressure, the highest level your blood pressure reaches when your heart beats and the second (or bottom) number is your diastolic blood pressure, the lowest level your blood pressure reaches as your heart relaxes between beats. The ideal BP is 120/80.

If you don’t have hypertension you should get your blood pressure checked at least once every five years. However, as you get older your blood pressure is likely to increase and you should be checked more often – every year is ideal. A BP check can be arranged by simply booking an appointment with Health Care Assistants or Practice Nurses or alternatively you can do a self-measurement using the BP monitor, which at our surgery is situated in the old building by reception.

If your blood pressure is greater than 140/90, you will be investigated for high blood pressure by your doctor or nurse.

Part of these investigations includes recording your blood pressure measurements at home using either an electronic BP monitor (which can be loaned from the practice) or being fitted with a 12 hour automatic BP monitor.

If a diagnosis of high blood pressure is confirmed, your doctor or nurse will advise you on measures that you can take to help manage the blood pressure. These include following a healthy diet with lots of fruit and vegetables and low in salt, not

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smoking, avoiding exceeding the safe intake of alcohol (14 or less units per week) and keeping active.

As well as a healthy lifestyle, your doctor or nurse may prescribe tablets to help with control of the blood pressure.

As high blood pressure cannot usually be cured, you will need to keep taking these tablets for life, so it is important that you report any side effects to your doctor or nurse.

If you have hypertension, you will be invited to attend once a year for blood tests and then an appointment with the long term conditions nurse or hypertension clinic. It is important to keep these appointments to ensure that your blood pressure remains under control. Some people find it helpful to measure your own blood pressure at home between appointments with your doctor or nurse, particularly if they suffer with white coat hypertension; this means the blood pressure is artificially high when seen by a doctor or a nurse.

For further information you may wish to look at www. bhsoc. org/ or www.bloodpressureuk.org Judith Magowan Hypertension Lead Nurse, Nurse Prescriber and member of the British Hypertension Society Okehampton Medical Centre

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Please ring Okehampton Medical Centre to make an appointment (01837 52233) 23

HEALTH & WELLBEING BEAUTY

HEALTH HEALTH & WELLBEING & BEAUTY

Fitness can be fun The importance of exercise and some top tips on how to get started...

4. Get active together

As a mum of two, I know how difficult it can be to find the time, let alone the inclination, to exercise and enjoy the benefits that follow.

shapes and sizes. In one group there are three generations of the same family all working at different levels but within the same session.

We only have to listen to the media to hear how obesity in young people is on the rise and how sedentary many of us have become. Apart from the obvious benefits to physical health, exercise in any form has also been proven to improve mental wellbeing. Many of my participants say their mental health has improved as well as their cardio health, strength and shape.

One area I am passionate about is parents and children working out together. Mums and teenage daughters attending together is proving very popular and a really encouraging step to help parents influence the lifestyle choices that their children take. Seeing mums, dads and their teens all laughing (and sweating) together gives me such satisfaction and I hope encourages the young people to realise the health benefits of regular exercise and how important it is to make time to fit it into their future lives. These are my tips for a healthier lifestyle:

Inclusion is really important to me, I genuinely want to encourage more people who wouldn’t normally join a class to come and have a go. Often people avoid exercise classes because they don’t think they are fit enough, they are too old or they are the wrong shape. Currently my classes include 12 to 72 year olds – all of different abilities,

1. Make time The most used excuse for not exercising; ‘I don’t have the time!’ A minimum of

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30 minutes per day of an activity that increases your heart rate can really make a difference to your health. If your time schedule or ability restricts this then break it down to 3 x 10mins.

Why not get off the bus a stop early, walk into town instead of taking the car, borrow a friend’s dog for a walk, run up the stairs at home instead of walking?

2. Eat less Busy lives sometimes result in grabbing food when you can, which are often results in poorly thought out choices. Try and plan ahead. Having healthy snacks to hand such as fruit, nuts, seeds or raisins is a great way to keep energy levels up and hunger pangs at bay.

Within a healthy, balanced diet, a man needs around 2,500 caloriesinspired per day to by maintain a healthy weight and a woman 2,000.

3. Drink more water Most people don’t drink enough. It is vital that we keep ourselves hydrated in order for our bodies to function healthily.

Government recommendations are 6-8 glasses of fluid per day depending on how healthy you are, how much exercise you are taking and how hot or dry the conditions are. Dehydration is often mistaken for hunger, so a top tip is always to drink a glass of water before food.

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5. Join a Sports Club We have many fantastic clubs in our area from squash, football, rugby, tennis, walk and talk and many more. All welcome new members. It’s a great way to keep fit and meet new friends too.

nature

Exercise is not only good for keeping us ‘heart healthy’ and ‘weight healthy’ it has huge benefits for our mind health too. Exercise really does enhance your mood and is proven to reduce stress too! We live in such a beautiful part of the country with so much to offer so even going for a walk could be, literally, your next step to a happier and healthier life. Enjoy!

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It has been proven that double the amount of ‘happy hormones’ (endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin) are produced when exercising with company, as opposed to working out alone. Having a ‘buddy’ or ‘buddies’ can help you stay on track when you don’t feel like being active and also encourages you to encourage one another to reach your goals.

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25

GARDENING

GARDENING

Bamboo – for the smaller garden!

Advice from Tim Penrose Anyone who has never grown bamboo before probably conjures up an image of a plant that is invasive and will run riot in the garden. However, not all bamboo are large rampant space invaders.

While more invasive running bamboos which originate from lower forest regions of Asia are sold, there are also nonaggressive bamboos from the colder high altitude regions of Chile, China and Himalayas. These are ideal for small gardens and growing in pots and containers. Most suitable are the Fargesia bamboo especially F. robusta and F.murielae varieties which have a weeping umbrella habit. F.m.‘Simba’ only grows to 1-1.5m high. With green culms (canes) and white papery sheathes that give it an unusual chequered appearance.

One of my favourites is Fargesia jiuzhaigou – the Red Panda Bamboo growing to 3m that has culms that emerge green, turn crimson red then mature to yellow. Another favourite is Borinda papyrifera CS1046, a loose clumping bamboo that can grow to 6-7m and as it matures, culms turn icy light blue.

There’s still room for running bamboo

The versatility of bamboo

In the UK not all running bamboo will be rampant and may take on a more clumping habit. Often grown for their colourful canes they are not capable of growing anywhere near the height or cane diameter attained in their native tropical climates. This is true of phyllostachys aurea, P. aureosulcata ‘Aureocaulis’, P.aureosulcata ‘Specatabilis’ yellow canes with green stripes and P. nigra the ebony black bamboo that are better behaved and can grow in tighter clumps when contained.

Customers at the nursery cannot resist touching the leaves and giving bamboo a shake to hear leaves rustle as they would in wind. When explaining bamboo, I ask them to take a closer inspection of the pot for emerging shoots, coloured stems and habit and help customers envisage the plant in their garden.

I then like to explain the unseen and most important part of the bamboo – the rhizome – as this is what you are really investing in.

For dwarf bamboo, it’s hard to beat Pleioblastus variegatus with its variegated leaves, which doesn’t grow taller than 3060cm and is useful for groundcover.

Planted in the ground, soil conditions influence how bamboo behaves, so in drier soil the roots seek water and may run, whereas in more water retentive soils such as clay, the roots have moisture and are more restrained. The trick is to incorporate plenty of water retentive compost or humus in the soil. Autumn is still a good time to plant bamboo.

Underground rhizomes which have roots and buds support the culms (canes) and branches and leaves above. The rhizomes are shallow rooting found within the first 30cm of soil. As the rhizome grows and expands it is able to produce taller and wider growing culms each year. Usually the larger pot sizes on offer have been grown on longer and have a larger rhizome capable of producing a larger diameter culm and this is reflected in the price you pay. The rhizome and root system forms an intricate matted web which means it can feed and support the weight and mass above ground.

ALL ASPECTS OF LANDSCAPING AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Unlike trees, the culms of bamboo are comprised of a series of alternating nodes (usually solid) and internodes (usually hollow) producing a segmented structure. This gives the bamboo great strength, light weight, flexibility and ability to bend in the wind. P. bisettii is a really good choice for windy locations and there are others. Once a cane has been cut at the top it cannot grow taller, only new culms can overtake it, making it the easiest to maintain of screening hedges. Being a grass it is not subject to the ‘Hedge Law’ regulations which apply to trees and shrubs. It is evergreen and one of the hardiest of plants.

Bamboo provides foliage and form in abundance and are versatile plants that can be used as a specimen, hedging or in planting schemes. You might like alternating bamboo of contrasting colours in a hedge such as the ebony black of phyllostachys nigra and yellow of Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Aureocaulis’. You can also highlight both their colour and their vertical accents by planting them with other plants such as dogwood (Cornus) with their colourful stems, Miscanthus sinensis and Mahonias.

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Fencing • Paving • Decking Brickwork • Stone Walling Turf Laying • Tree Felling Weed Spraying • Hedge Reshaping Garden Clearance • Lawn Mowing Soft Landscaping and more...

Shearing hard work – best left to the experts!

Area covered includes: Yelverton • Horrabridge • Tavistock • Roborough • Princetown • Gunnislake Callington • Bere peninsula • Buckland Monachorum • Lydford • Lifton • Okehampton

Design and Installation Waterfalls and Streams Planting and Stocking Water Features Renovation Leak Repair

Dartmoor Pond Services Ellis Taylor

Tel: 01822 852699 M: 07836 576722 www.dartmoorpondservices.co.uk

Stuart Luxton explains how some financial outlay does pay extra dividends…

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Established for over15 years.

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01822 834443 07977 272170

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Monday to Friday 8am-5.30pm Saturday 8.30am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm

Available while stocks last Shop online at www.moleavon.co.uk

Hello again everyone. As I write the weather seems to be playing up – just warm and pleasant but with little sun. It could be worse but conversely could be much better. The seasons are rolling on though and Autumn will be here sooner than we think.

Harvest has been going well with the silage all but done, although we could do with some sun to finish off the hay harvest – but I am sure it will come.

Because of our geographical location we grow very little corn, so we need to buy our straw from other farmers. We have started collecting this and storing it away so we can provide the animals with bedding over the winter months.

The bill from this is usually one of the biggest of the year but it is something we cannot avoid or do without. One of the good things about all the straw is that we get plenty of farmyard manure to spread back on the land. All our fields have been regularly tested for levels of plant nutrients. We then target the manure to the areas that need it most, which helps us achieve good yields in subsequent years without as much need for artificial fertilizer.

On the animal front we have finished our spring calving but it won’t be long before

the cows that have their young in the autumn, start to calve. The bulls have been hard at work; their workload seems to be reducing – which is a good sign as it should mean that most of the ladies are in the early stages of pregnancy.

We have been out on the moor rounding up our sheep and getting them shorn too. It is always a busy time of year!

We have to gather all our sheep from their grazings on Dartmoor and walk them back to the farm. Once at the farm we shear the adults and also perform a variety of animal husbandry tasks such as prevention of fly strike and foot trimming. The sheep are then marked with fresh paint and walked back to the moor. In the heat it is very noticeable that they are happier without their winter coats and are always in a hurry to return to the areas they regard as home.

I decided to give the lads a hand shearing the ewes this year, which with hindsight was not a good idea! I enjoyed it at the time but having not shorn a sheep for a quite some time I might have overdone it – it was a good workout and I was very stiff and sore the next day!

We recently had a sad experience on the farm with a new brood of pups. Sadly when they were just two weeks old we lost their mother. We then had to rear them on artificial milk with a bottle – with its obvious highs and lows. The pups are doing well and now think we are their mum and dad, but we definitely

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

don’t want to repeat the experience.

At the shop things are as busy as ever.

We were very pleased to have our planning application for an extension approved and are now excited to be planning the new build and the products and services we will be offering.

I hope you’ve all have a great summer!

Stuart Luxton

PETER GREEN WOOD PRODUCTS Animal Housing Specialists Est.1985 Bespoke products built to your specifications by order or choose from our own range designed and built by Peter Green.

Poultry Arks • Aviaries Dovecotes • Kennels Goat Shelters • Field Shelters Stables • Sheds Garages • Workshops Goose & Duck Houses and more...

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 01837 52432 ALFORDON MANOR FARM OKEHAMPTON EX20 1RX 29

WHAT’S ON

REGULARS

YOUR FRIENDLY, TRUSTED AND RESPECTED LOCAL ESTATE AGENCY IN

OKEHAMPTON Are you thinking of selling or letting a property in Okehampton?

Local homeowners and landlords have been trusting Bond Oxborough Phillips to get the best deal for them for more than 25 years.

In that time, we’ve established ourselves as one of the leading independent estate agents in the region. Our reputation is built upon an exceptional sales record; giving our clients access to footfall and window space in many busy, central locations; and our ability to combine tried and tested marketing techniques with the latest technologies.

But most importantly, we are known for our staff ’s expertise and knowledge of the local property market. We happily offer advice to anybody interested in buying, selling, letting or renting property in the area, so feel free to ask any questions you have.

Branch Manager

EVERY THURSDAY Belstone community cafe is open between 10am and noon. All welcome for homemade cakes and tea.

13 SEPTEMBER TAI CHI Weekly classes start at fairplace church in Okehampton, 1.15pm until 2.30pm. An evening Tai Chi class will be starting — venue and day to be confirmed, please contact Kate Dixon if you are interested on 01837 840959 or email forestchi@ btinternet.com

Meet the team

LEE HEYWOOD

EVERY TUESDAY WALK AND TALK If you have problems with your health, or have had in the past, it can be hard to stay active. If you need just to get out of the house and meet others, then come and join the friendly walk and talk group on Tuesdays at 10.30am opposite the Okehampton post office for a short walk.

You can walk for 20 minutes or 40 minutes, it is up to you. Need to talk about it? Ring pat on 01837 83487 or just turn up.

GILES KOPS

Valuer & Negotiator

ALISOUN PHILLIPS Negotiator

SALES 01837 500600 Email: okehampton@bopproperty.com

LETTINGS 01837 500600 Email: okehampton@bopproperty.com

Church Chambers, 26 Fore Street, Okehampton EX20 1AN OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 18:00 Saturday: 09:00 - 16:00 Sunday: 10:00 - 14:00

GRACIE HARCOMBE Trainee Negotiator

September 2 SEPTEMBER DEVON AIR AMBULANCE FUNDRAISER Live music with a blues brothers tribute band, the Okehampton ukulele band and a comedy act performing on stage on the village green at South Tawton. Organised by the seven stars inn, the event will run from 4pm until 10pm and include a hog roast and barbecue. All welcome — proceeds from the day will be donated to Devon Air Ambulance trust. Please note a road closure will be in operation throughout the day in the village centre.

3 SEPTEMBER RURAL SKILLS DAY

The National Trust’s Finch Foundry at Sticklepath welcomes visitors to a day of local rural skills, arts and crafts. See page 42.

8 SEPTEMBER SOIL TO PLATE A tour of the vegetable garden at Lewtrenchard Manor, followed by food demonstration. The tour includes a two course lunch. 9.30am arrival with coffee and biscuits. The cost is £32.50 per person.

For more information call Lewtrenchard Manor on 01566 783222.

7 - 10 SEPTEMBER HERITAGE OPEN DAYS Free entrance to visitor attractions in the area, including the Museum of Dartmoor life, Cotehele Manor, Lydford Gorge and Castle drogo. See www.heritageopendays. org.uk for more information 9 - 24 SEPTEMBER MUSE: MAKERS IN MUSEUMS An exhibition of artworks inspired by the collection at the Museum Of Dartmoor Life In Okehampton. This event is part of Devon open studios.

9 SEPTEMBER COFFEE MORNING Coffee morning at the church hall in market street, Okehampton, 9.30 Until 12noon, organised by Okehampton friends of hospiscare, to raise funds for this vital charity. All welcome.

9 - 24 SEPTEMBER DEVON OPEN STUDIOS Devon Open Studios is organised by Devon Artist Network (DAN) and provides a unique opportunity to meet artists in their own studios in Devon. 250 Artists will be opening their doors to the public and exhibiting their work in more than 160 locations across Devon, showcasing paintings, prints, furniture, sculpture, photography, crafted ceramics, handmade jewellery and cutting-edge fashion.

9 SEPTEMBER COFFEE MORNING The Friends Of North Tawton Surgery (Fonts) will hold a coffee morning at north tawton town hall between 10am and 11.30Am. Tea, coffee, various stalls and a raffle will be available – proceeds for north Tawton medical surgery.

10 SEPTEMBER DARTMOOR FAMILY DAY Join Miss Ivy Events and Visit Dartmoor to celebrate the best that Dartmoor has to offer. There will be an array of food and artisan exhibitors, outdoor activities, archery, ponies, workshops and lots more.

Entry £3 (under 12’s free) Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor 10.30Am – 4Pm. 12 SEPTEMBER OBJECT HANDLING WORKSHOP A dementia friendly event taking place at the museum of dartmoor life in Okehampton. The workshop starts at 2pm and is free of charge.

Bracken Tor House A beautiful countryside venue on edge of Dartmoor

01837 53916 - www.brackentorweddings.co.uk Ideal for weddings, birthdays, receptions and civil ceremonies 31

WHAT’S ON

12 SEPTEMBER PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

With local photographer John Howells at Castle Drogo. See page 43 for more information.

13 SEPTEMBER 400 YEARS OF OPERA DESIGN

A talk by Simon Reese on the arts associated with opera. The event takes place in the charter hall, Okehampton, 10am. Dartmoor decorative and fine arts society (DFAS), booking on 08137 871481, www.Dartmoor-dfas.Org.Uk 16 SEPTEMBER DEBBIE FLINT AND THE ERIC GILCHRIST JAZZ TRIO Author and Tv presenter Debbie Flint will be singing a selection of light jazz favourites including ‘That Ole Devil Love’ And ‘What A Difference A Day Makes’

Supporting the arts and sport in and around Okehampton Available for private hire: parties, weddings & functions Café and Licensed Bar Great stopping off point for cyclists and walkers Talk to us about your catering requirements

WHAT’S ON

At The Plough, Torrington, accompanied by the superb Eric Gilchrist Jazz Trio who have most notably played at The Albert Hall. The evening is to raise much needed funds for medical detection dogs and The Plough Arts Centre. 8pm. Box office 01805 624624.

16 SEPTEMBER SOUTH ZEAL FLOWER SHOW

See what’s on extra for more details.

16 AND 17 SEPTEMBER EDWARDIAN COUNTRY FAIR Traditional fun and games for all the family at this event staged by castle drogo. See page 43.

17 SEPTEMBER FOOD FAIR Mouth watering delights from some of the best food traders in the south west gathered for the day at rhs rosemoor, torrington. A great way to spend your sunday, breathing in those tongue tingling smells and trying out a few samples before buying some amazing produce to take home with you. The fair is open from 10am until 4pm. Normal admission prices apply.

21 SEPTEMBER AUTHOR TALK Meet best-selling author Graham Hurley at Okehampton library. His books have been described by The Guardian as ‘Britain’s finest and hardest-hitting series of police procedural novels’. Copies of Graham’s books will be available to purchase on the night. The talk takes place at 7pm.

Entrance £3 to include refreshments.

21, 22, 23 SEPTEMBER JUKEBOX JEWELS Presented by The Courtenay Players in The Charter Hall, Okehampton. See music and art for more information.

Call: 01837 318010

email: pavilion@ocrasport.org.uk Okehampton College•Mill Road Okehampton•EX20 1GE 32

21 SEPTEMBER BEARNES HAMPTON & LITTLEWOOD VALUATION MORNING Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood valuations

for antiques, jewellery and ceramics with Lucy Marles (jewellery specialist) and Nic Saintey (ceramics and general valuer) who will offer advice and valuations on items you may be thinking of selling at auction.

No appointment necessary – for further information please call 01392 413100. The bedford hotel, tavistock 10am-1pm.

21 SEPTEMBER ART WORKSHOP With Artist Celia Osson At Castle Drogo.

See Page 43 For More Information, 22 SEPTEMBER ZION TRAIN Back at The Plough, Torrington by popular demand, one of the most unique and enjoyable live dub acts on the planet, their use of dynamic onstage dub mixing whilst performing alongside acoustic instruments and exceptional vocalists make Zion Train one of a kind. Plus support act. Doors open 8pm, Zion Train at 9.30pm. Box office 01805 624624.

23 SEPTEMBER COFFEE MORNING Okehampton Community Archives Coffee Morning, held at Okehampton Church Hall Between 9am And 12.30pm.

23-24 SEPTEMBER GREAT BRITISH COUNTRY APPLE WEEKEND AT COTEHELE HOUSE Go along for apple day combined with a lively Miss Ivy Events Autumn Fair. This festive weekend features artisan stalls, live music, games, refreshments, and the victorian cider press ‘big squeeze’.

10.30am-4.30pm Member £3, non-member £4, child free, parking £3 (members park free) 24 SEPTEMBER EVENSONG Evensong sung at 6.30pm by the Exeter Cathedral Choir At St Mary The Virgin Church, Bratton Clovelly EX20 4JX. All welcome. Retiring collection.

To promote your business to 18,400* readers - call 01822 615627 editorial@okelinks.co.uk

25 SEPTEMBER STORY AND CRAFTS A fun morning for the under 5s and their carers at Okehampton Library. This event is free – no booking is necessary.

29 SEPTEMBER – 1 OCTOBER REAL ALE, ENGLISH WINE AND CIDER WEEKEND The Fourth Real Ale And Cider Weekend to be held at Rhs Rosemoor, Torrington, will feature a range of interesting, unusual and eminently quaffable real ales from near and far – plus ciders too – all served direct from the barrel. Celebrate the harvest with displays of produce from the garden, food stalls, plus sample and buy delicious wines from Devon and Cornish vineyards. Two pint carry-outs also available so that you can take your favourites home. Supported by the north devon branch of camra. Open noon to 5pm, friday to sunday. Normal admission prices apply.

30 SEPTEMBER HEARTLAND CHAMBER ORCHESTRA At Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall. See music and art pages for more information.

30 SEPTEMBER RIVERS IMPROVEMENT GROUP The regular monthly clean up/maintenance day in Okehampton takes place today.

Meet at the recycling bins in Waitrose car park at 10am. All welcome.

Under a Bushel Bridestowe Village Hall

Opening Friday 1 September 7.30pm Saturday 2 September 10.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 3 September 10.00am - 4.00pm

Local Artists, Crafts & Refreshments More Info Call 01837 861158 f underabushelbridestowe

30 SEPTEMBER BIG BREAKFAST Lions Big Breakfast In aid of Force at the Charter Hall, Okehampton. See what’s on extra for more information.

October 1 OCTOBER SECRETS OF BELSTONE CLEAVE A two hour guided walk led by Chris Walpole to discover the old mining and military secrets of the river taw valley at Belstone, followed by cream teas and cakes in the village hall. Meet outside Belstone Village Hall at 1.30pm.

Wear your walking boots, dogs on leads please. Donations invited for hall funds. Contact 01837 840498 for more information.

1 OCTOBER FUNGUS FORAY Explore the Castle Drogo Estate looking for fungus with an expert. See page 43.

4 OCTOBER TEA AND TALK The subject of this month’s talk at The Museum Of Dartmoor Life In Okehampton Is Castle Drogo. Entrance £4 to include refreshments. The event begins at 2pm.

4 OCTOBER ACTIVE LIFE, ACTIVE MIND A complimentary health talk at

GOOD ADVICE IS PRICELESS

Okehampton Library by therapist Morewenna Bradly, who will be talking about the use of natural modalities, such as flower essences, to help support people in grief and loss. The talk is free – please book in advance at the library.

5 OCTOBER TWO BRIDGES CHARITY DINNER Executive chef Mike Palmer and his team will prepare a five-course dinner featuring some of the finest seasonal produce from exceptional local suppliers with carefully matched wines. Tables seat 6, 7 or 8 guests. Take a whole table, or join other guests on a shared table. £47.50 Per person, black tie, all profits will be donated to the Devon Air Ambulance. To book your table please phone 01822 892300. 7pm - 10pm at Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor National Park, Pl20 6sw 7 OCTOBER APPLE DAY At Lydford Gorge. See page 44 for details.

9 OCTOBER — 14 OCTOBER NATIONAL LIBRARIES WEEK Pop Into Okehampton Library to find out what’s going on to celebrate.

10 OCTOBER OBJECT HANDLING WORKSHOP A Dementia Friendly Event taking place at the Museum Of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton. The workshop starts at 2pm and is free of charge.

Sold for £4,300

St. Edmund’s Court, Okehampton Street, Exeter EX4 1DU T: 01392 413100 W: www.bhandl.co.uk E: enquiries@bhandl.co.uk

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

33

13 - 15 OCTOBER WOODFEST AT RHS ROSEMOOR, TORRINGTON See artisans at work on traditional crafts, including wood turning, whittling, basket weaving and spinning. There will be demonstrations of woodcarving, tree planting, willow wand making, chainsaw carving and a woodcrafts market. The exhibition is open from 10am until 3pm daily – normal admission applies.

14 OCTOBER PP ARNOLD One of the iconic faces of London’s Swinging 60’s appearing at The Plough, Torrington. She has collaborated, recorded, worked and toured alongside such luminaries as The Rolling Stones and The Small Faces and this year she celebrates 50 years in the music industry with a tour of classic songs from her historical back catalogue with a couple of new songs thrown in from an album she is working on

Suzuki Cello Classes

Classes for all ages from 4 to 104.

Studio in Lewdown, Okehampton.

School visits available.

Tim Pratt BA(hons), ATCL, CELTA, ESA level 2 www.dartmoorcello.co.uk tim@dartmoorcello.co.uk

0755 1936011 01566 783455 34

with Steve Cradock of Ocean Color Scene, Paul Weller Band and The Specials. Box office 01805 624624.

14 OCTOBER OKEHAMPTON CARNIVAL A day full of fun culminating in the big procession. See what’s on extra for more information.

14 AND 15 OCTOBER DEER WALK A guided walk during the fallow deer rut at the Castle Drogo estate. See page 43.

18 OCTOBER ACTIVE LIFE ACTIVE MIND A free health fair is being organised to take place in Okehampton Library – further information will be appearing on the library’s website at okehampton.library@ librariesunlimited.Org.Uk 19 OCTOBER QUIZ NIGHT The friends of North Tawton Surgery (Fonts) quiz night takes place in North Tawton Town Hall. Entrance is £2 per person for teams of up to five people. 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

21 - 29 OCTOBER HALLOWE’EN TRAIL At Lydford Gorge. See page 44 for details.

21 OCTOBER OPEN DAY The gates of Solland Farm, between Sampford Courtenay and Exbourne, will be

open to visitors today. See what’s on extra for more details.

22 OCTOBER OPEN GARDENS The garden at Andrews Corner, Skaigh Lane, Belstone, EX20 1RD will be open in aid of the National Gardens Scheme between 2pm and 5pm. Well established, wildlife friendly, plantsman’s garden in high moorland setting with refreshments and plants for sale. For more information visit www.andrewscorner.garden 22 OCTOBER – 30 OCTOBER OUTDOOR ADVENTURE! Daily activity programme at Adventure Okehampton that varies depending on the day. Due to Autumn season with its shorter day length there are only two activities each day. During the week there are three full activity days in addition to the taster session programme. Tuesday is watersports day, Wednesday is family rock day on Dartmoor and Thursday there is the paddle trip down the Exe. Taster sessions from £20 pp, full days £49pp. www.adventureokehampton.com/ activity-days 25 OCTOBER CRAFT ACTIVITIES A spooky day of crafting activities with a Hallowe’en theme at the Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton. The event runs between 11am and 3pm.

26 - 28 OCTOBER KEY FOR TWO

THE NEW INN Restaurant & Bar

Box Office: 01805 624624 or online at www.theploughartscentre.org.uk

11 OCTOBER THE ARTS IN THE CYCLE OF CRIME, PRISON AND REOFFENDING Years of working as an artist within the criminal justice system in England and Germany have given Angela Finley unique insights into the destructive and costly cycle of crime, prisons and re-offending.

This talk takes place in the Charter Hall, Okehampton at 10am. Dartmoor decorative and fine arts society (dfas), booking on 08137 871481, www.dartmoor-dfas.org.uk

AUTUMN HIGHLIGHTS AT THE PLOUGH ARTS CENTRE

WHAT’S ON

THE place in North Devon for superb live entertainment, theatre, films, live satellite screenings, exhibitions, workshops... and delicious local food!

Fri 1 Sept 8pm ’Cloudbusting’ Music of Kate Bush

Fri 15 Sept 8pm

Fri: George Hotel, South Molton Sat: The Plough

Phill Jupitus

Hi On Maiden

Sat 16 Sept 8pm

Fri 22 Sept 8pm

Fri 22 Sept 8pm

Sat 23 Sept 8pm

Debbie Flint & The Eric Gilchrist Jazz Trio

Zion Train + support from Zamba

John Otway at The George Hotel, South Molton

Dr John Cooper Clarke with special guests

Thurs 28 Sept 8pm

Fri 6 Oct 8pm

Wed 11 Oct 7pm

Sat 14 Oct 8pm

Johnny Hates Jazz + disco with Radio Devon’s Richard Green

RSC Live Coriolanus

P.P. Arnold

Black Sabbath The End of the Concert (satellite)

John le Carre

Coming Soon!

Thurs 19 Oct 8pm

BOOKINGS & RESERVATIONS TELEPHONE 01837 82247 SAMPFORD COURTENAY . OKEHAMPTON . EX20 2TB

Comedy with Andy Parsons

advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

Fri 8 Sept 8pm Sat 9 Sept 8pm

‘An Evening with George Smiley’ (satalite)

We only use the freshest ingredients from local suppliers and farms from fish to meat and game lovingly created into mouth watering dishes by our Michelin Chefs Malcolm and Mathew. Booking highly recommended.

To promote your business to 18,400* readers - call 01822 615627

Thurs 7 Sept 7.45pm

Sun 22 Oct 7.30pm Comedy with Paul Foot

Sat 28 Oct 8pm Polly Toynbe interviewed by David Walker

John Illsley & His Band (Dire Straits) Lemn Sissay ‘Something Dark’ Judie Tzuke Barb Jungr sings Bob Dylan

WHAT’S ON Ants (Actors Of North Tawton Society) 2017 Production Key For Two by John Chapman and Dave Freeman and Directed

by Nigel Davies will be staged in North Tawton Town Hall, doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start.

27 - 29 OCTOBER FOLK WEEKEND The Baring Gould Folk Weekend takes place in Okehampton, organised by Wren Music. See music and arts pages for more details.

27 OCTOBER TORCHLIT WALK Enjoy the magic of Lydford Gorge by torchlight. See page 44 for details.

27 OCTOBER MUSEUMS AT NIGHT The Museum Of Dartmoor Life is taking part in The Museums At Night Festival and will be open during the evening, from 6pm.

27 OCTOBER BONFIRE NIGHT A traditional bonfire night being hosted

by North Tawton Rugby Club. Full details of the event will be posted on the club website www.pitchero.com/clubs/ northtawton closer to the time.

27 OCTOBER MURDER MYSTERY EVENING At Lewtrenchard Manor. A black tie event to include a four course dinner. 7.30Pm arrival with fizz and canapés. £75.00 Per person. For more information call

lewtrenchard manor on 01566 783222.

Gorge. See page 44 for details.

28 OCTOBER SOUTH ZEAL CARNIVAL See What’s On Extra For More Information.

2 NOVEMBER A CONCERT FOR REMEMBRANCE This Royal British Legion organised event at the Mint Methodist Church in Fore Street, Exeter, is being held to replace for 2017 only the annual Devon Festival of Remembrance. The aim is to raise funds so that the Devon Festival of Remembrance can return to Exeter Cathedral in 2018 to commemorate the centenary of the end of the Great War. The concert will feature Okehampton Community College Jazz band, mezzo soprano Cassy Jane and the pupils of St Sidwell’s School. Doors open 6.30pm, the concert starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £7.50 and are available from www.rbldevon.events@gmail.com or 07588 129131.

28 OCTOBER HALLOWE’EN SPOOKTACULAR At Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre, lifton. Entertainment, vintage rides and games at ‘the dingles after dark abandoned fairground’. Doors open at 8pm, hot food is available and there is a licensed bar until midnight. The event finishes at 1am. Not suitable for children under 16 – advance tickets only. Go to www.Fairground-heritage.Org.Uk or call 01566 783425.

28 AND 29 OCTOBER CRAFTY CAPERS Make Hallowe’en Creations At Castle Drogo. See Page 43 For More Information.

All event listings are FREE. Send details to jane.honey@ linksmagazines.co.uk or upload directly to our website by pressing the SUBMIT button

29 OCTOBER SPOOKY DAY Get into the spirit of Hallowe’en at Lydford

Café Scrumptious Licensed premises serving home cooked food, cream teas and fresh cakes

Opening hours 9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday Sundays 12 – 4pm for Traditional Sunday Roast Blackdown, Mary Tavy PL19 9QB 01822 810555 We also do catering for events, meals on wheels and sandwich delivery.

Cafe Scrumptious is available to hire for private functions.

36

We have included as many events as possible here in the magazine but for a full and comprehensive list see: www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

29 OCTOBER OPEN GARDEN The garden at Andrews Corner, Skaigh Lane, Belstone, EX20 1RD will be open in aid of the children’s hospice south west between 11am and 4pm. Well established, wildlife friendly, plantsman’s garden in high moorland setting with all day refreshments and plants for sale. For more information visit www.andrewscorner. garden

To find out about...

Tavistock’s main venue for Films, Theatre, Live Music and Live Broadcasts

Welcome to...

MUSIC......................................

The Normals Fri 8th Sept

Beach Boyz Tribute Band Sat 9th Sept

Stray Sunday 10th Sept

Ozzbest Fri 15th Sept

Come along to the launch of their much anticipated new album titled 1986, this is a band growing immensely in popularity.

The Beach Boyz Band create a place where familiarity and nostalgia come together, making it a night to remember.

Stray is an English hard rock band formed in 1966.

The very best of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath with a dynamic style that has earned them a reputation for outstanding live performances

The Floyd Effect Sat 16th Sep

Jack Bartlett Band Sat 23rd Sep

Fri 29th Sept The Total Who Story

Sat 30th Sept Green Haze

A musical journey from the Dark Side Of The Moon, through Wish You Were Here and Animals, to The Wall, and all the way to the Division Bell

Along with The Broken Men and Lewis Hayward, a night of superb music in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

The show is not just an imitation but one of the greatest exponents of the music that defines their generation.

The ultimate tribute to one of the best rock bands the world has ever seen – Green Day

Fri 6th Oct Focus

Sat 7th Oct G2 Definitive Genesis

Fri 13h Oct Pearl Jamm

Sat 14th Oct The Kingstons

Focus manifested themselves at the start of the seventies as the most successful and the most appreciated of all the Dutch poprock exports.

G2 Definitive Genesis pays tribute to a Vintage period in Genesis’ long and colourful history

The band puts on an exciting stage show that authentically recreates the sound, look and feel of the Seattle giants.

The Kingstons are an exciting 6 piece contemporary band based in West Devon WIith the moto ‘ska for the soul.

Sat 21st Oct Beatlemania

Fri 27th Oct Kast off Kinks

Sat 28th Oct Whole Lotta Led

Online booking available for all music events at...

Beatlemania are regarded as one of the most accurate tributes to the fab-four in the world

The Kast off Kinks were formed in 1994 by the original Kinks drummer, Mick Avory and never fail to deliver.

Whole Lotta Led performing the classic album Led Zeppelin IV along with the most memorable numbers.

A

WHAT’S ON in your local area VISIT

Dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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www.tavistockwharf.com

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Tavistock Wharf Box Office 01822 611166

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

1 - 3 September

Closing date 30 September

Under a Bushel

Get snapping!

A wide range of arts and crafts will be on display at the Under a Bushel exhibition being held in Bridestowe Village Hall this September.

Under a Bushel is a revival of an event which was originally held in the old parish hall 20 years ago. Then, there were more than 200 entries – organisers are hoping this will be easily surpassed this time! Much of the work will be on sale although some exhibits are for display only.

The exhibition is open to locals of Bridestowe and Sourton parishes and those with a strong connection to Bridestowe.

There will be photography, sculptures, watercolour, carving, abstract, needlework, quilting and everything in between. The primary school and the pre-school will both be involved by creating artwork collectively to be displayed specifically for the exhibition.

Drinks and canapés will be available at the opening evening at 7.30pm on Friday 1 September. On Saturday 2 September you can visit the exhibition between 10am and 5pm – bacon baps will be on offer during the morning – and on Sunday 4 September the exhibition will be open from 10am until 4pm. Tea and cake will be available all weekend.

Admission costs £2 to include the programme – entrance is free for children. All welcome.

For more information, call 01837 861158.

There’s still time to enter the South West Lakes Trust photo competition 2017 and be in with a chance to win some great prizes!

The trust is looking for photos which show off the splendour of lakes and reservoirs like Roadford and Fernworthy and the activities that take place on them. There are three categories – family fun, on the water and feats of engineering. The first prize for the overall winner is £250 and each category winner will received £100. There are also runners-up prizes and a special award for the photo which receives the most public votes. The winning photographs will appear in Cornwall Life, Devon Life and Somerset Life.

The guest judge for this year’s competition is the well-known Westcountry photographer Richard Austin.

30 September

October 28

A Big Breakfast!

South Zeal Carnival

The delicious smell of sizzling bacon will be wafting around the Charter Hall in Okehampton on Saturday 30th September, when Okehampton and District Lions Club hold their Big Breakfast event to raise money for FORCE.

South Zeal Carnival was revived in 1987 and has gone from strength to strength and with it, the size and standard of the procession entries, bringing the village to life with colours, lights and sound.

It’s the second time the club has held the event, the first being in March last year, when more than £1,000 was raised for FORCE, but the Lions are hoping that this September’s event, between 8am and noon, will be even more successful.

This year’s big event takes place on Saturday, October 28 and taking pride of place will be this year’s Carnival Prince and Princess, Xavier Diffey and Dorothy Parker Groom. The afternoon procession starts at the King’s Arms in South Zeal at 2pm. The procession then wends its way down to the recreation ground where the judging will take place. The classes are for under 5s, ages six to seven, eight to nine, ten to eleven and over 12, decorated wheels and pairs.

A spokesman for the Lions said: ‘Last year, we cooked over 200 breakfasts, using 35lbs of bacon, 200 sausages, 128 eggs, 28 tins of baked beans, 200 hash browns, 14lbs of mushrooms

and ten loaves of bread!’

For further information please contact Lion Michael Chastey (01837 53346), or Lion Michael Brint (01837 82220).

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The evening procession starts at 7pm with judging at 6pm.

The classes include artistic, topical, original, trade, comic, visiting royalty, walking individuals, pairs, groups and decorated wheels.

Prize money is presented to the best entrants and there are also appearance fees. There are also challenge cups for the best children’s entrants, best walking, best YFC, best local, best visiting and best overall.

Part of the carnival but prior to carnival day itself is the flower show which this year will be held on September 16 at the victory hall. Schedules are available from The Stores in South Zeal, the King’s Arms or from the carnival website.

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Photos must be submitted in digital form of at least 1MB – entrants can submit a maximum of one photograph per category. To enter, go to www.swlakestrust.org.uk and click on the What’s On section.

The categories are for fruit, vegetables, pot plants, flower arrangements, craft, cookiing, preserves, hime brew, photography, cut flowers, under fives, under eleven years and under 16 years. Entries for the show should be received by September 14 at the latest.

For more information call 01837 840946 or email southzealcarnival@googlemail.co.uk or search for South Zeal Carnival on Facebook.

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

21 October

Cider Farm Open Day There’s an opportunity to enjoy an old-fashioned English fair and explore the wonderful orchards at ancient Solland Farm this month, when the home of Sampford Courtenay Cider is open to the public.

21 October

There will be stalls, crafts and activities for all the family to enjoy, in addition to tours of the orchards, which are planted with a range of traditional cider apples – some 14,000 of them in total! The cider made at Solland Farm, which straddles the Exbourne and Sampford Courtenay parish borders, is produced in the traditional way using the same methods that Devon cider makers used 250 years ago. Only apples grown on the farm are used to make Sampford Courtenay Cider and farm owners James and Alison McIlwraith are passionate about making only the highest quality range of beverages.

Okehampton Carnival All the fun of a traditional carnival procession is in store for residents and visitors alike when Okehampton’s big event is staged towards the end of October. Carnival day starts with a coffee morning in the Charter Hall from 9am until noon to which everyone is welcome.

Then the judging for day collectors and the children’s classes begins at 2pm in the Charter Hall. This will be followed at 3pm by the crowning of the Prince and Princess, Zac Funnell and Evie Allen, by the Mayor of Okehampton, Cllr Jan Goffey, in School Way. The procession, led by Okehampton Excelsior Band, sets off from School Way at 3.15pm.

Steve Bolt, carnival chairman, said: ‘We are very keen to create a wonderful procession. This means encouraging more of you to join in, pubs, clubs, groups, schools, businesses, musicians, individuals, anyone and everyone — the more the merrier. It’s a great form of advertising and a way of showing off who you are and what you can do!’

Roads affected for the evening procession (from 6.30pm) will be Mill Road, George Street, Market Street, Fore Street, North Street, East Street, Northfield Road, Barton Road, Link Road, Crediton Road, Leaholes Avenue, Limehayes Road and Exeter Road.

Entry forms for the afternoon and evening classes are available 40

LAKESIDE CAFÉ & GIFT SHaOkeP

er e

The Carnival Queen, Yasmin Langman, will be crowned by the mayor at 7pm and the procession will move off at 7.15pm, led by the Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service.

Tickets for the evening sundowner cost £12 to include food, the talk and a pint of cider. For information, call Solland Farm on 01837 851638.

m a l ics ust m c S fabr ug S u b r i f all of A Fa % of e end 10 l th ti

Mill Road (from the waterwheel to its junction with Station Road), St James Street, Park Row and Kempley Road will be closed from 5pm for the assembling of tableaux. Judging for the evening classes starts at 6pm.

More collectors are needed for the day and evening, so even if you can only spare an hour to help, please contact Sally Wilson on 07821 049538.

During the open day, which runs from 10am until 6pm, visitors will have the opportunity to taste the ciders, learn how they are produced and see the apples being pressed. They will also be able to browse the wide range of food, drinks and crafts made by Devon producers in the farm shop, the Cider

un

The brightly coloured procession then goes up Market Street, turns left into Fore Street, goes up East Street to the junction at Mill Road and then back through the town, before dispersing in Market Street. Road closures will be in place from 3pm until the procession ends.

from Donald’s Menswear in Fore Street, Okehampton or from Karen Penna, 19 Wonnacotts Road, Okehampton EX20 1LX.

Vat. During the evening, between 7pm and 10pm, it is hoped there will be an ‘end of season sundowner’, when a local producer will give a talk about their work, weather permitting.

There will also be a bar, music and food to enjoy as the sun (hopefully!) sinks behind the West Devon hills.

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41

NATIONAL TRUST

NATIONAL TRUST

Autumn at the Foundry

Enjoying Autumn at the Castle

As the leaves begin to turn we’re looking towards harvest, a busy and very important time for the Foundry in the past. As a factory producing edge tools for the farming industry it relied on these busy times of year for survival.

This time of year is perfect to get outside and make the most of the last days of summer and look ahead to the crisp colourful days of autumn. There are lots of walks in the Teign Gorge to explore and many events to get involved in with over the coming months.

Art workshops with Celia Olsson. Suitable for beginners and those wanting to experiment with different methods. £35 per person (includes coffee and lunch). Booking essential on 01647 433306.

The building project to make the castle watertight continues in earnest and there will be a very special chance to meet the castle builders on Tuesday 24 October.

Sunday 1 October, 2–4pm

To celebrate this we will be holding a Rural Skills Day on September 3. We hope to display a range of local skills on the day and have plenty of interesting arts and crafts for viewing. Last year we had many stalls from water divining to photography so it was a varied day!

RIVERBANK PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

We close for the winter on October 29, but we then re-open for one day on November 18 to celebrate St Clement’s Day. St Clem was the patron saint of blacksmiths and we celebrate by inviting as many craftsmen as possible to have fun and compete to find out who is the fastest snail maker and who has the skills to win the design and forge competition.

Tuesday 12 September, 11am-3pm

EDWARDIAN COUNTRY FAIR

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 September, 11am-5pm Come and enjoy a day at the Drogo country fair. There will be lots of traditional fun and games for all the family. Normal admission prices apply.

After that we close our doors until March, getting ready for another year of hammers and sparks.

Join an experienced mycologist finding and identifying the wide range of fungi on the Castle Drogo estate. £5 per adult, £3 per child, booking essential on 01647 433306.

AUTUMN WOODLAND DEER WALK AND BREAKFAST

Join local photographer John Howells and capture the magic of the River Teign. £37 per person (Includes coffee and lunch).

Booking essential on 01647 433306.

The sight of over 10 blacksmiths working is a rarity in the modern era and something special to celebrate the craft.

FUNGI FORAY

ART DAYS

Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 October, 7.30-10am

Join this guided walk during the fallow deer rut. Afterwards enjoy a delicious home cooked full English breakfast in our café. £17.50 per person (£10 children). Booking essential on 01647 433306.

CREEPY CASTLE CRAFTY CAPERS

Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 October, 11am–4pm Make your own Hallowe’en creation to scare family and friends. £2 per child, normal admission prices apply.

Thursday 21 September 10.30am-3.30pm

The fire in the Add some colour to Forge at Finch your weekend this Foundry provides autumn at Gibside a warm glow this autumn

Immerse yourself Add some colour to in your passing weekend this the of time autumn at Gibside at Castle Drogo The castle is host to over 2000 Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest teeming with wildlife and autumn walking clocks displayed bycolours, artistwithLuke routes for all ages and abilities.

Jerram until Sunday 29 October.

Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities.

Call 01647 433306 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-drogo

nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01837 840046 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/finch-foundry

When you visit, donate, volunteer join the National When you visit, donate, volunteer or join theor National Trust, your support your helps us to look after special places <inafter the region> <like Trust, support helps us to look special places property X, property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. for ever, for everyone.

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

helps usTrust to look 2017. after special <in the region> <like ©support National Theplaces National property property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone.

Trust isX,an independent registered charity, number 205846. © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust #nationaltrust Photography © National Trust Images. #nationaltrust Images\National Trust.

42

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© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent registered charity, number 205846. registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Photography © National Trust Images\Steve Images.

Haywood.

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43

NATIONAL TRUST

MUSIC & ART

September 30

Changing Seasons at the Gorge The gorge is a great place to make the most of the late sunshine as we head towards autumn. Now is the time to make the most of your visit and explore the whole gorge. From November only the circular walk to Whitelady waterfall and the track to the bird hide are open. For those that have been before there are always reasons to visit again — have you found the bird hide on the old railway track or made it all the way to Tucker’s Pool? The change in the seasons means the gorge is always unique.

There will be free entry to everyone as part of the Heritage Open Days scheme on Saturday, September 9 from 10am until 5pm. A great chance to stop by for a long or short walk and maybe reward yourself with an indulgent cream tea or slice of cake in the tea-rooms.

Hartland Chamber Orchestra

HALLOWE’EN TRAIL

There’s a treat in store for music lovers this September, when The Hartland Chamber Orchestra makes an appearance in Bratton Clovelly, as part of the Bratton Clovelly Festival of Music and Art.

Saturday 21 to Sunday 29 October, 10am – 3.30pm Creep through witch’s wood following the spooky trail to see what scary myths and ghastly legends you can uncover to gain your prize. £3 per trail, normal admission applies.

This gem of the North Devon music world is celebrating their 25th anniversary. They will perform some rousing classics and other well loved pieces including Elgar’s Serenade for Strings, Boyce’s 5th Symphony, Bach’s concerto for two violins and Pachelbel’s Canon in D. The conductor for the concert will be Malcolm Woodcock.

TORCHLIT WALK

Friday 27 October, 5.30-6.30pm Light your way to Whitelady waterfall with a flaming torch, enjoy music as night descends then head back to toast marshmallows over the fire. £10 (£8 for members) per ticket with torch, £2 per ticket for accompanying adults and children over 5, booking essential.

The concert takes place in Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall on Saturday, September 30 at 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets cost £6/£4 (16yrs and under). To book email: brattonclovellyfestival@ gmail.com or phone 01837 871696.

SPOOKY DAY

Sunday 29 October, 11am-3pm

APPLE DAY

Saturday 7 October, 11am-3pm Come along to help us press the apples from the orchard, your efforts will be rewarded with a taste of the juice. Enter the longest peel competition and learn about how to turn juice into cider. Normal admission applies.

Get into the spirit of Hallowe’en. Make your very own broomstick, fashion yourself a spider familiar and take home a magic wand. Join in the potions class to brew up some strange concoctions. £5 per child, normal admission applies.

For more information please visit our website or call 01822 820320.

Proceeds will go towards Cancer Research UK and Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall.

Monday 30 October – Wednesday 15 November

Moving, emotional – and makes you laugh!

The Tavonians Theatre Company are back on the road in October and November with an exhausting comedy Cheshire Cats. Raising funds for St Luke’s Hospice as they go, Cheshire Cats is a laugh out loud comedy play by Gail Young.

Catch a glimpse Add some colour to of yourgolden weekend this autumn at Gibside sunlight at Lydford Gorge Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities.

Camaraderie, frayed relationships and blisters are to be expected when a team of women from Cheshire decide to speedwalk their way to fundraising success in the London Moonwalk. Along the way this cleverly crafted comedy will not only have you laughing out loud, but also feeling the deep emotion associated with the Moonwalk’s aim which is to raise money for breast cancer.

nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01822 820320 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

helps usTrust to look 2017. after special <in the region> <like ©support National Theplaces National property property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone.

Trust isX,an independent registered charity, number 205846. © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust #nationaltrust Photography © National Trust Images. #nationaltrust Images\Dianne Giles.

44

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In their decorated bras and posh new trainers the girls are up for the challenge, but when one of the team can’t make it, the substitute 6th member of the team doesn’t exactly meet the physical criteria! At the end of the 13 miles of aching feet, heaving bosoms, friendships and tears, the walkers will have a stitch in their sides, but so too will the audience, from laughing out loud.

‘A genuinely funny and even touching ensemble piece’ – Edinburgh Fringe review, The Scotsman See Cheshire Cats at Callington, PrimRaf Theatre, Monday 30 October Lydford, Nicholls Hall, Wednesday 1 November Meavy, Parish Hall, Thursday 2 November Bere Alston, Parish Hall, Friday 3 November Upton Cross, Sterts Theatre, Thursday 9 November Tavistock, Town Hall, Friday 10 November Okehampton, Charter Hall, Saturday 11 November Tavistock, The Wharf, Wednesday 15 November.

All performances 7:30pm Further information and tickets from www.tavonians.org.uk

45

MUSIC & ART

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September 20, 21 and 22

Jukebox Jewels – Courtenay Players The latest production by Okehampton’s Courtenay Players takes to the stage in the Charter Hall this September.

Jukebox Jewels, directed by Sheila Gregory, is a nostalgic look back at the music of the rock and roll years, featuring songs from the likes of Elvis, Cliff Richard, Buddy Holly etc. Sheila explains: ‘We have a medley of rock ’n’ roll classics, like “Rock Around the Clock”, big ballads, even a tribute to Lonnie Donnegan and a touch of “La Dolce Vita”. There should be many songs that people will love to remember, and hopefully, might even join in and sing with us.’

The show is taking place at 7.30 pm on each of the three nights. Tickets are £8 for adults and £4 for children to include a free drink of wine or fruit juice and refreshments. Tickets will be available from Okehampton Fairplace 50/50 shop.

Previous members of the Okehampton Operatic and Drama Association, who were mainly presenting Gilbert and Sullivan

The Players have staged many productions in the past including shows like Rebecca, Oliver, Sound of Music and South Pacific, proving they are willing to take on any type of performance. The Players have around 40 members aged between eight and 85 who produce up to three productions each year and are regularly in rehearsal, usually on a Wednesday.

If you would like more information about Courtenay Players please contact Stan Stormont on 07880 537946 or via stanislaus21@homail.com Information can also be found on www.courtenayplayers.co.uk.

Friday, October 27 to Sunday, October 29,

Folk Weekend and Song School The Baring-Gould Folk Weekend, which takes place in Okehampton town centre is an intimate affair, offering a chance to get up close and personal with the guest artists and features a mixture of events; some things you can sit and listen to or others where you can get involved.

The programme comprises workshops, sessions, folk clubs, dances and concerts, all held at indoor venues within easy walking distance of each other. The festival is organised by Okehampton-based Wren Music. A spokesperson for the charity said: ‘This year we are very pleased to be able to welcome from Florence the trio Vincanto, a group of singers we met as part of our European project. They have a great store of traditional Tuscan and Italian folk songs and work in ways very similar to Wren with community projects. Other artists booked so far include John Kirkpatrick, Polly Bolton, Hannah Cummings and of course the full Wren team will be there to showcase highlights from this year’s busy Wren programme.

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operettas, formed Courtenay Arts in 1950. The Courtenay Arts originally had a number of smaller groups including photographic, art and music. By the nineties this had become just the drama group, which changed its name to the Courtenay Players so that there would be less confusion.

‘There is an emphasis on family activities on Sunday, with new for this year, a scarecrow festival to add to the annual conker competition – Hannah Cummings is the current champion!

Prior to the festival itself, the Baring-Gould Folk Song School will run from Monday, October 23 to Friday, October 27. Led

by Wren Music’s vocal team of Paul Wilson, Sarah Owen and Marilyn Tucker, the main guest tutor will be John Kirkpatrick.

The Folk Song School gives you time out to concentrate on your own singing: your voice, your performance, your repertoire. Tuition is done in a range of settings from large group work, to one-to-one surgeries with the tutors, and many small group sessions are developed as the week goes on.

The week is suitable for first time singers through to professionals and the emphasis is on learner led activities, one-to-one and/or small group working with individual tutors and peer support.

The full programme for the festival and information about the song school are available at www.wrenmusic.co.uk 47

FEATURE

FEATURE

FEATURE

Forum Presses on with Okehampton Rail Project For more than a decade a campaign has been running for the re-establishment of a daily passenger service between Okehampton to Exeter and it looks like this dream is now coming closer to fruition.

Devon County Council originally established a forum for the people of North Cornwall, West Devon and North-West Devon to meet community aspirations regarding daily rail provision.

The purpose of the forum (now known OkeRAIL Forum), is to lead and manage all steps necessary to re-establish a daily rail service from Okehampton to Exeter and in the future, look towards linking up with Tavistock through to Plymouth.

The group has covered some ground since its formation and the forum continues to grow in strength. It now consists of many member organisations who have each demonstrated they have the ability to provide tangible resources that can be used to actually help re-introduce train services to the local people.

Since the formation of the OkeRAIL Forum, OkeRAIL CIC (Community Interest Company) has also been formed with the support of Okehampton United Charities. This has helped to raise funds and provide the wherewithal to deliver the Royal Oke special train from Okehampton to Paddington earlier this year. It was a train journey that sold over 500 passenger tickets in just one week! Although other trains have departed from Okehampton to Paddington in recent years this was the first Pullman dining train for more than 50 years.

The CIC is also in the process of making an application to the Great Western Railway (GWR) customer and communities

48

improvement fund for a study into the old railway bridge, linking the site of the car park to the proposed Okehampton Parkway station. The study would examine land ownership and access, a structural survey of the bridge and the provision of a passenger footpath.

As well as being convenient it is seen that a daily passenger service from Okehampton will help to regenerate the local economy of West Devon, Torridge and North Devon. For almost half a century, large areas of West Devon and North Cornwall have been without easy access to the national rail network.

Conservative estimates believe this to affect over 100,000 people.

Problems with the Dawlish line in recent years have proven a lack of resilience to the rail network in the south-west and this has impacted both the economy both through business and tourism.

Plans are now afoot, and being discussed, for a new Okehampton Parkway station to be built to the east of Okehampton. This would provide easy access from the A30 and A386 and hopefully help reduce traffic within the town of Okehampton.

The Rt Hon Chris Grayling MP, Secretary of State for Transport, announced recently that the Department for Transport was now looking to run a trial service from Okehampton to Exeter.

The Forum continues to push ahead and a meeting was recently held with representatives from the Department for Transport locally. Forum members stressed to the DfT that they need to ‘future proof’ the line, so in time, it could be linked with Tavistock and Plymouth. Any stations constructed would need to be able to be converted for mainline use and provision

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for signalling improvements would need to be planned for future development of the line. It was pointed out that the introduction of a service would provide a gross value-added uplift of £3.3 million in the first year of operation.

Forum members have also stressed that with more than 900 additional homes being built in Okehampton during the coming few years, the more that is done to reduce the number of cars on the road, the better.

The introduction of a service would provide a gross value-added uplift of £3.3 million in the first year of operation.

The distance between Bude and Exeter is just over 54 miles and through surveys carried out by ‘Destination Okehampton’, it has been found that people catching a train from Bude are more likely to drive to Exeter St David’s than anywhere else.

If they could travel to Okehampton to catch a train to Exeter, the car journey would be reduced to just over 28 miles. A new group to support the re-opening of the railway to Okehampton and eventually Holsworthy and Bude has also been formed.

Connect Bude (www.connectbude.uk) has four key objectives: to reconnect Bude and Holsworthy to the national rail network promote improved rail services between Okehampton and Exeter ensure the track bed of the former railway is protected gain community support for these objectives.

The Sunday summer trains from Okehampton to Exeter have proved a huge success in recent years. In 2016 the first summer train out of Okehampton had 109 passengers!

Despite the temporary timetable for part of the 2017 season, passenger numbers are growing each week. The present Sunday service offers excellent value for money at £5.20 return to Exeter. To coincide with the school holidays, trips were also available to the popular seaside resorts of Exmouth, Dawlish and Teignmouth (£6.30 return) or Torquay and Paignton (£7.80 return). GroupSave tickets are available for three to nine people travelling together, saving a third on the total cost.

This service is about far more than trains to Exeter, it makes national and international destinations accessible. This year we have already had passengers travelling to and from Italy [Milan], Germany and Spain. Our passengers are not just from Okehampton, they regularly come from Bude, Launceston, Hatherleigh and Holsworthy. The train brings tourists into Okehampton as well.

Michael Ireland is working with Dan Okey of GWR to offer an enhanced summer trains service for 2018 with better connections to the national network and a special train programme of high speed services to Oxford, Tenby and London Paddington.

Mike Davies & Michael Ireland OkeRail Forum

Overseas visitors spend an estimated £552 million in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset (published figures 2013) and a lot of this could be going into West Devon.

Centre picture from left to right, Cllr Dr Michael Ireland (Chair OkeRAIL CIC), Paul Maynard MP (Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Department for Transport), Cllr Rev Mike Davies (Chair OkeRAIL Forum and West Devon Borough Councillor for Okehampton North), Rt Hon Mel Stride MP.

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

49

DOG WALK WALK WITH WINNIE

WALK WITH DOG WINNIE WALK

Walks with... Winnie A varied walk – just watch for mud!

This walk has been kindly written (and walked) for us by Denise Horner of Dartmoor Nordic Walking with her dog Winnie. www.dartmoornordicwalking.co.uk www.petranger.co.uk Approximate time one and a half hours and about 6k.

1:25000 Outdoor Leisure Map 28 This month’s walk is a circular one from Belstone, taking in Belstone Cleave, Skaigh, Tongue End and Priestacott and is ideal if you need a sheltered walk from the sun or the rain — the rain being more likely! It can, however, be quite muddy in places after heavy rain. It is a lovely varied walk along tracks, fields and meadows starting from the car park.

Turn left out of the car park and follow the road, pass the stocks and animal pound until you reach the grass triangle and the Standing Stone, taking the left fork. Once you come on to the common, stay close to the hedge on your left and start walking down hill on the grass. You will see a seat on your left and a small path. Take this path which is level and follows the wall behind the houses at the top of Belstone Cleave. There are amazing views across the valley on your right hand side towards Cosdon Beacon.

The path takes you through a tunnel of trees which has a feel of the jungle at times. Stay on this path to the end, turning left and up towards the road. You will see a lovely fountain with drinking water, just at the right time for the dog! Once on the road, turn right down the hill and walk about 100m. Next to a big tree on your left there is a gravel path that will take you up the hill, away from the road. Follow this until it becomes level and you can see the top of the trees in the Skaigh Valley below. At the end of the path you will reach a small gate.

During the winter without the leaves on the trees you will see ‘White Rock’ where the Minister would preach to the folk of Sticklepath. Go through the gate, turn left up the hill, meeting a path coming from the right, continue left along this narrow path and through the five barred gate.

The track now widens, stay on it and at the next gate and cattle grid, continue straight on to Tongue End and the main road. On reaching the road, turn left and after walking about 50 metres, take the footpath on the right, cross over the stile and head into the open field. At this point the walk feels very different out in the open. Walk through the middle of the next

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Please refer to OS Leisure Map 28, or Explorer 113 Okehampton. Starting point grid reference 621.938

Map for guide only. three fields which are great for the dogs to run and run, as long as there is no livestock of course. There is a large oak tree in the last field, the next stile will be in front of you. This path will now bring you into Priestacott. Turn left on the road and take the second footpath sign on your left through the courtyard of the house. The path is to the right of the house and brings you into a field. Stay to the right and follow the signs, through fields and meadows. You will be amazed where this path comes out! Turn left on the road as you are now back in Belstone and if you have timed it right the ‘Old School Tea Rooms’ may be open.

If you would like to join us on this walk, with or without poles or dogs, we will be meeting on Wednesday, September 13 at 10am in Belstone Car Park. Please book your place on this walk at www. dartmoornordic walking.co.uk

Dedicated Small Animal Veterinary Care in the Okehampton and Chagford Areas Contact: 01837 52148 Okeford Veterinary Centre Ltd School Way, Okehampton EX20 1EU 70B The Square, Chagford TQ13 8AE

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A destination for the curious, the enquiring and those with a passion for wine

THE SQUARE, CHAGFORD

NORTH ST. ASHBURTON

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51

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINK

Top of the Crops It’s that glorious time of year in our part of the world when growers are rewarded with (hopefully) an abundance of crop and the serious hard work of the harvest begins.

Methods of harvesting have not seen many changes in recent decades with the two main techniques still being by hand or machine. Hand-picking fruit is naturally labour-intensive and costly. For smaller producers or in areas of steep and unforgiving terrain, this may be the only viable option. Some larger producers, especially wine makers, will choose to hand pick a selected portion of crop for their higher end products to ensure a certain quality of fruit. Hand-picking is usually a guarantee of quality.

Mechanical harvesting on the other hand, is efficient, cost effective and flexible. Introduced commercially in the 1960s, it has transformed the industry, giving the grower more options like harvesting at night when the sugar composition of the grapes is more stable, or if an early frost was forecasted and the harvest was brought forward. Vineyards can hire out the machinery for the duration of the ingathering — some machinery even comes across from France!

In celebration of this time of year, I have chosen a selection of products which are diverse, unique and very English; perfect for raising a glass and saying a huge thanks to the growers and producers.

The Grape Harvest Grapevines first arrived on the shores of England thanks to the Romans, who brought viticulture to every new land they sought to conquer. With around 700 vineyards and 130 wineries producing an average of 5 million bottles each year, the UK is edging on to the main stage at a rate of knots. The cool climate here ripens the fruit slowly, producing grapes that bear a delightful fresh vibrant character.

Our vineyards did not have the best start to the year, after temperatures plummeted in late April. English wine producers feared the frost would wipe out developing buds, catastrophically reducing this year’s yield by as much as 80%. However, following the early summer heatwave, wine producers have become a little more optimistic about this year’s harvest.

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An example of an accomplished English wine is Chapel Down’s Bacchus 2016 vintage at £13.49. With an alluring aromatic palate of citrus fruit, gooseberry and nettle, leading to a clean dry finish, this gem from Kent is a must with seafood.

The Apple Harvest The UK is the biggest consumer of cider and here in the West Country we don’t disappoint. Harvest time for cider fruit, be it apples or pears which make perry, is roughly from September to November according to apple growth, but certainly by October, production is in full flow. As with grape harvesting, hand-picking and mechanical methods are used, the latter being more popular in the larger orchards. Notable varietals include Brown Snout, Dabinett and Kingston Black.

Get Pickling!

Pickling is a great way to use up a glut of produce from your garden or greenhouse. Just about any vegetables can be pickled, from onions and peppers to carrots, courgettes, aubergines.

Use glass jars and lids that have been sterilised by washing in warm soapy water and then placed in the oven at 150c for ten minutes — there’s no need to dry the jars or lids.

A basic pickling liquid recipe is a litre of cider or white wine vinegar, a litre of water and 2 tablespoons of salt. Bring this to the boil in a large pan and add your vegetables, sliced to

Dunkertons Organic Black Fox Cider £2.29 is the perfect English cider. From Herefordshire, slightly off-dry, this sultry cider is crafted from traditional cider apples. Expect to be greeted with a robust explosion of full flavoured apples followed by a divine bittersweet finish.

Ingredients 6 pickling cucumbers, or 2 regular-sized cucumbers 2 banana shallots 2 teaspoons mustard seeds ½ teaspoon turmeric 2 star anise 75 g caster sugar 150 ml vinegar

Method

Nowadays the tables have turned; potato vodka is generally more expensive and complex to produce. Potatoes are harvested small so they retain their fullest flavour and generally potato-based vodkas have a creamy characteristic.

1. C ut the pickling cucumbers in half lengthways, and slice regular ones through the middle, then into fingers. Peel and finely slice the shallots.

My top of the vodkas has to be Chase Potato Vodka, at £35.50.

Using potato varieties such as King Edward and Lady Claire this English vodka is smooth with a naturally sweet and creamy taste and an elegant finish. The ultimate Martini base – the only question is – shaken or stirred?

3. Combine all the other ingredients in a pan and bring to the boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

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Lift the veg out with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl with a marinade of 500ml of extra virgin olive oil, five cloves of garlic, peeled and sliced and a fresh red chilli, deseeded and chopped. Stir well and place the vegetables in the clean jars, cover with the marinade and put the lids on tightly. Store the jars somewhere cool and dark, preferably leaving them for about two weeks before use. The pickled vegetables should keep for about three months. Happy pickling!

Spicy Cucumber Pickle

The Potato Harvest?

Not a food you would associate with an alcoholic beverage, but the humble spud has been used for centuries as an ingredient in vodka. In the late 18th century, potatoes were a much cheaper raw material than cereal grains and were used to make a ‘consolation spirit’ for those who could not afford the grain alternative.

whatever size you prefer but probably no larger than 1cm thick.

Small veg can be left whole. Boil the vegetables for 3 minutes.

2. Put the cucumbers and shallots in a colander. Sprinkle over teaspoons of sea salt. After 45 minutes, rinse well.

4. Fit the cucumbers snugly into a sterilised Kilner jar, then pour over the liquid. Seal and leave for at least 24 hours.

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53

HISTORY

HISTORY

Prickman had a great love of Dartmoor and of Okehampton and was a good friend to the Reverend Sabine Baring-Gould of Lewtrenchard, famous now for writing the hymn ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’, but also as a respected collector of folk music.

During his life Prickman researched a great deal of the history of Okehampton, providing the council at various times with much historical information lists, of mayors and much else, including photographs. He also completed a paper on the French prisoners of war in Okehampton for the Devonshire Association.

The Story of John Dunning Prickman One of many Okehampton public figures who undertook their duties with pride and diligence…

A few years ago, Okehampton Town Council discovered in their archives photographs of a large number of mayors dating back to the 1880s. The council subsequently received a grant to re-condition and frame these photographs, accompanied by articles on each mayor. The task of writing these and bringing these notable figures to life was given to Okehampton historians, Hilary and Mike Wreford.

Returning to Devon, he moved to Savile House in Fore Street, Okehampton in 1880 and a few years later, entered into partnership with Arthur Felix Risdon, practising as Prickman and Risdon in Exeter and Okehampton.

In the early days, the town mayor was a most powerful man and as well as being elected to office was also Chief Magistrate of the Borough of Okehampton, combining immense power and authority in the two appointments. Today it may seem unbelievable, but as well as chairing the council and the bench, the mayor was responsible for bridges, street lighting, roads, rivers, pavements, water, sewage, licensing laws, planning, slaughter houses and just about everything else in the town – there was never a dull moment or time to rest!

For a short period John Prickman acted as deputy recorder of the borough of Okehampton and in 1891, by a practically unanimous vote of Devon County Council, was appointed coroner of the Okehampton district. By 1894, on the death of George Pearse, he was appointed clerk to the Justices of the Petty Sessional Division of Okehampton – both these offices he held until he died.

All these mayors undertook their duties with pride and diligence and there were many fascinating tales to tell. This is an account of the life of just one of these public figures:

Among his many other appointments Prickman was agent at Okehampton for the Devon and Exeter Savings Bank, correspondent for North Tawton and Inwardleigh School Managers, clerk to Inwardleigh Parish Council, steward of the manors of Belstone and Gidleigh, steward of the Stafford Estates at Dolton and of the Luxmore Estates at Broadwoodwidger.

John Dunning Prickman, Mayor of Okehampton 1890-91 Lawyer, antiquarian and sportsman – also known as ‘The Dartmoor Coroner’ A Devonian by family and birth, John Prickman was born at Broadnymett, the son of Thomas Prickman, owner of the Broadnymett Estate in North Tawton. Articled with a Mr W Huggins of Exeter, he became a solicitor in 1878 and served two years as managing clerk with a firm of solicitors in Chester.

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His business, chiefly of a private and conveyancing character, by this time had grown to large proportions, with offices in Hatherleigh and North Tawton as well as Okehampton.

As a solicitor he was county coroner for Devon for the Okehampton district and Dartmoor Prison, clerk to the justices for the Hatherleigh Petty Sessional Area and to the Okehampton Town Justices as well as being clerk and legal advisor to the Okehampton Charity Trustees. Prickman acted for the Duchy Estate, on occasions for the War Office and Treasury. He was also a prominent Freemason.

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It might be felt that in such a busy life he would have little time for recreation but this was certainly not the case. He was always happy in the saddle, riding his horse Stocking along with his hound, Emperor, and he was secretary of the Mid Devon Hunt, as well as a follower of the Eggesford Hunt. He found time to write, contributing to The Field and other sporting journals. In his younger days, he played football and cricket for Okehampton and football for the county. For many years he was president of both the cricket and football clubs in the town and took interest in the formation of Okehampton Golf Club.

For Windows: Legacy links to sites such as Ancestry and FamilySearch

At the time of his death in March 1913 at the age of only 58, Okehampton had lost one of the best and multi-talented figures in public life in Devon.

The scarlet tunic of the Devon Regiment could be seen at his funeral procession, a reminder of John Prickman’s captaincy in the local company of the 4th Devon Local Volunteers.

Hilary and Mike Wreford

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Or you could buy one of the genealogy software programmes. All good programmes will allow you to create many different family trees if you wish, offer several types of charts and reports, and enable you to add notes and photographs. Some also have other features and some programmes offer a free trial period, so that you can try out the software for a limited time.

He even found time for politics. A staunch Conservative, he campaigned in vain for the ‘working classes’ to be allowed to play sport on a Sunday.

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You can then print out your family tree, although if it is extensive it may become difficult to read on home-printer A4 sized paper. It is often very useful to get a larger sized version printed by an online printer, which you can do by sending a pdf of your tree with the required size.

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Shopping heaven in the heart of Devon Tuesdays - Antiques & Collectables | Wednesday - Crafts and mixed market Thursday - Crafts and mixed market | Friday - Traditional Charter Market, fresh produce Saturday - Regular themed markets - 1st Saturday of the month is Aladdins Cave collectibles, 2nd Saturday is crafts, others are mixed.

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Ian Renwick JADED PALATES WINES OF CHAGFORD AND ASHBURTON How long have you been in the wine business?

It’s such a cliché to say ‘x number of years, but I’ve always been passionate about wine’ isn’t it? I don’t attach that much importance to experience, to be honest. I’ve recently been hiring a new team to help with the expansion of the business, and without fail, all of us have come from non-standard backgrounds. I find it really helps with bringing perspective to wine – no-one likes a wine-snob. But we all LOVE wine.

And we are only too pleased to chat to anyone about it!

Why did you choose Dartmoor as your base?

Easy – my children are now the 4th generation of Renwicks to live on Dartmoor. I visited my Grandmother in Lustleigh almost every summer growing up, so it really is home to us.

How do you choose the wines you stock?

Ridiculously carefully! I see it as a huge part of our job to ‘filter’ down the selection to make sure each wine shows of the best of what that grape or region can do. This takes part of the work away from our customers. Many of our wines are imported directly from the vineyard – as an ex-winemaker myself, I know only too well that the distance between producer and consumer can sometimes be huge. We’re trying hard to close that gap and tell the stories behind the people making the wines.

in style and you can find them in any supermarket. There aren’t any people helping you choose in a supermarket though, so it’s no wonder people stick with what they know. That’s the real advantage of shops like ours – we are on hand to help guide you and find out exactly what kind of wines you like. We get so excited when a die-hard Malbec fan falls in love with a beautiful Rhone or Puglia red we’ve suggested.

Is there a ‘rule of thumb’ as to how long wine can be kept?

The short answer is, this depends. The longer answer is that probably only 5% of all the wines in the world are meant to be ‘aged’ – that means keeping it for longer than a year. The rest and certainly almost all wines under £12 or so, are meant to be drunk in the year after they are made.

Do you need any qualifications to become a wine merchant?

Some places reckon having qualifications from organisations such as the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) are useful, and I wouldn’t disagree. But as I said earlier, for me, passion and loving dealing with people

are much more important. Anyone can pass any test with application, but to sell wine (or anything for that matter) you’ve got to show spark and enthusiasm.

without replacing the existing roof!

Do you have a favourite wine?

Loads of them! I can be just as satisfied with a bone-dry cheapie Sicilian white at a summer BBQ as I can with a full-blooded Chateauneuf-du-Pape for Christmas dinner. It really depends on food, weather, mood and company.

Is there any wine you dislike?

As a merchant, it’s important to distinguish between ‘bad’ wines and wines I like less. There are plenty of wines I prefer to others, but as long as it’s well-made, it’s important to recognise that my customers have different palates to me, and might prefer that style more.

What would you say to anyone wishing to make a career in wine?

What other industry can bring together farming and incredible glamour; massive industry and micro-scale family; beautiful travel and the comforts of a bottle and a warm fire?

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Which wines are the most popular?

In the UK in general? New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Argentinian Malbec. But I think that’s mostly because they’re the most consistent

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