Oke Links November/December 2018

OKE LINKS

November / December 2018

Issue 12

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

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PAGES OF CHRISTMAS EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Family Festive Fun and Fairs with the National Trust Winter Gardening RHS Garden Rosemoor Andrew Sinclair North Tawton’s Sculpture King INSIDE: LOCAL PEOPLE • EDUCATION • WHAT’S ON • GARDENING • HISTORY • NOTICEBOARD LOCAL PEOPLE

A sculptor, shoemaker and artist

FEATURE

The success Get in the festive Add some colour to of Christmas thethis your weekend spirit this autumn atDartmoor Gibside at Castle DrogoTrail Artisan

WHAT’S ON

Markets, fairs and events - it’s all happening!

Father Christmas will be visiting on Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest the 15, 22and&autumn 23 December, teeming with16, wildlife colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities.

11am-4pm.

DELIVERED FREE BY YOUR POSTMAN TO ALL EX20 1, 2 & 4 and TQ13 8 POSTCODES Call 01647 433306 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/castledrogo

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, for property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. for ever, everyone.

(a guaranteed circulation of more than 10,200 homes and businesses) © National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent charity, number 205846. © National registered charity,registered number 205846.

Photography Trust Photography © National Trust Images\Adrian Judd.

Images.

#nationaltrust

Commemorations and creativity!

Welcome to the November/December edition of Oke Links - a special issue in that this is our second birthday! It seems hardly any time since I was putting together our first anniversary edition - time really does fly!

The deadline date for any inclusions in the January/February issue of Oke Links will be 30th November 2018. For all editorial enquiries please contact me via email at: jane.honey@linksmagazines. co.uk or 07971 917071.

THE LINKS TEAM: Publisher: Tim Randell Editor: Jane Honey Design: Sara Venner, Julian Rees Customer Services: Rachel Rees Advertising: Jane Daniel, Olivia Breyley, Joanne Mallard

01822 615627 Dinner for two at The Two Bridges Hotel competition.

Due to going to print with this issue prior to the competition deadline, we will announce the winner in the next issue.

Of course, a very important date will be marked around the world this November - the centenary of Armistice Day and the ending of World War I. You can read a little of how the Okehampton area was affected by the Great War in our history feature on page 58 and find out how the centenary is being commemorated in the area in the What’s On Extra section on page 39 This edition, I have been meeting some of the amazingly talented and creative people that live in our area. Top UK sculptor Andy Sinclair is currently working on the Duke of Wellington’s Regimental Memorial and having taken a sneak peak at his North Tawton studio, it’s going to be a wonderful work of art when finished. Alison Hastie, the creator of the well known Green Shoes company in Moretonhampstead, still retains her passion for making fantastic footwear and Kat Middleton is creating beautiful jewellery out of - to put it bluntly - rubbish!

Creativity is an important aspect of the subject of our charity focus, Stone Lane Gardens at Drewsteignton, home to the mythic garden sculptures. And our feature turns the spotlight on a new venture - the Dartmoor Artisan Trail. Turn to page 52 to read all about it and enjoy the beautiful pictures taken by its creator, journalist and photographer Suzie Bennett.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Oke Links - and I’d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year!

Jane

Jane Honey – Editor

18 Contents

60

20 26

58

5 NOTICEBOARD

23 HEALTH & WELLBEING

52 FEATURE

12 SPORTS NEWS

26 GARDENING

56 FOOD AND DRINK

13 LOCAL PEOPLE

29 FARMING

58 HISTORY

18 EDUCATION

30 WHAT’S ON LISTINGS

66 TRADE SECRETS

20 CHARITY FOCUS

39 WHAT’S ON EXTRA

@okelinks

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TAVY OKE

Cover photo by Suzy Bennett, Dartmoor Artisan Trail – see our feature article on pages 52 & 53

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NOTICEBOARD

Local good causes receive first funds from SeaMoor Lotto The community lottery, SeaMoor Lotto, has already paid more than £1,655 to local good causes across South Hams and West Devon after just over a month of operation.

The weekly lottery raised the sum via the SeaMoor Lotto website and, at the current rate of sales, is on track to raise nearly £20,000 annually. Those who purchase SeaMoor Lotto tickets directly support local good causes who, in turn, receive funds from the lottery in a monthly pay-out. Ticket holders can choose which cause they wish to support, as well as entering to win cash prizes of up to £25,000. For every £1 ticket sold, the chosen local good cause receives 50p and 10p goes to a wider community fund.

The biggest cash prize win so far was a ticket holder who chose to support Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon Citizens’ Advice, who won £250.

One local good cause which received money from SeaMoor was K9 Search Dogs, based near Lewdown. Samantha Clark, K9 chair, said: ‘K9 Search Dogs provide a vital service for both local and visiting dog owners who find themselves in the

frightening position of losing their beloved pet. We plan to use the lottery money to purchase wet weather and safety gear to help keep our hounds and handlers safe on searches in the darker winter days.’

With nearly 70 good causes signed up to SeaMoor Lotto, including OCRA and the Okement Rivers Improvement Group, there is a wide range of charities and good causes to choose from. Each organisation has its own fundraising page on the lottery website, featuring information about the cause and what it pledges to raise funds for, as long as they provide services within the South Hams or West Devon areas.

Draws take place every Saturday evening from 8pm online.

Tickets can be purchased up until midnight on the Friday before that weekend’s draw. To purchase tickets or for more information visit www.seamoorlotto.co.uk. Local good causes and charities who wish to join SeaMoor Lotto should contact lotto@swdevon.gov.uk

Keeping the Fairtrade message alive Fairtrade Town Status for Okehampton has to be renewed every two years and we will be going through this process again in November.

The Fairtrade Group, with the support of the town council, presents evidence of support for and activity to promote Fairtrade in the town. We are fortunate that all three supermarkets stock Fairtrade - the churches are supportive, also the primary school has Fairtrade School status. Two Rivers and Country Lanes serve Fairtrade beverages, Kilworthy Kapers and Oxfam also stock several Fairtrade goods.

The Fairtrade Group endeavours to support town events.

This year we had a Smoothie bike at the Food and Music Festival, as well as a hamper to raffle - our thanks to the Co-op for bananas for the smoothies and to Waitrose for donations to the hamper. At Okehampton Show we were able to offer visitors tasters of Fairtrade goodies. We hope to be at the Edwardian evening in Okehampton - our Fairtrade hot chocolate always proves to be very popular.

If anyone is interested in helping with our renewal or keen to support us please contact Cynthia Higbee 01837 861194.

Cynthia Higbee

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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NOTICEBOARD

Be part of something special in the New Year In its 15th year, Hospiscare Open Gardens has become a popular annual event where people throughout Exeter, Mid and East Devon share their gardens, large and small, with like-minded people. Visitors enjoy coffee and cake, explore amazing private gardens and share gardening tips and ideas, and support a worthwhile local cause.

Hospiscare has worked with more than 300 different gardeners over the last 15 years who have welcomed thousands of visitors, raising more than £227,000 for the charity, whose services could not continue without such generous and reliable support.

Open Gardens 2018 saw 36 gardens open between April and September raising a record breaking £27,264.52 allowing Hospiscare to provide the equivalent of 41 local people with 24 hours of care on its inpatient unit.

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Perhaps your garden could make a real difference for a local person approaching the end of their life.

Hospiscare is now looking for gardens of all sizes and styles to join in and raise funds for patients and their families in 2019.

Can you open your garden to the public? You will be supported by a Hospiscare Community Fundraiser every step of the way, and they have plenty of ideas to get you started.

Hospiscare is a local charity, providing free, quality care and support to people with progressive life-limiting illness, and their loved ones in Exeter, Mid and East Devon.

Call 01392 688020 or email fundraising@hospiscare.co.uk for more information or to sign up now.

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NOTICEBOARD

Okehampton Medical Centre Patient Participation Group We are a group of patients and medical staff who meet the first Wednesday of the month. We try to make a positive contribution to the services and facilities offered by the practice to the patients. Your Practice - Your Views is our strapline. A PPG is actually a Government requirement and every medical practice has one - some more active than others! We discuss topics of generic mutual interest to both practitioners and patients. We can make positive suggestions about the practice and occasionally, specific medical conditions, as an expert or experienced patient.

We encourage health education activities and we will be developing self-help projects to meet the needs of fellow patients, such as the Gardening Club. We would like to expand by offering befriending, bereavement support or other help, with the right training and volunteers.

Our fundraising is for items like portable ECG machines and a heart monitoring device to help our doctors help their patients more effectively and more efficiently. We have coffee mornings, quizzes and other events, both to fundraise and to advertise medical services such as the Flu Clinics. We act as a representative group that can be called upon to influence the local provision of health and social care by attending various health and wellbeing fora, countywide PPG group meetings and we will be represented on the Clinical Commissioning

Group meetings. There are currently over 14,500 patients in the practice and we welcome any patient over 18 to come along or volunteer to help at our events.

We have a noticeboard in the main building and hope to have one in the new building shortly, where we advertise fundraising or social events and items of interest. We also publish a newsletter which is available not only in the medical centre but other places around the town and the villages to help publicise what we do.

So, if you are a patient at Okehampton Medical Centre, and would like to be part of the Group, please contact the chair, Jan Goffey at Okehamptonppg@nhs.net especially if you are under 60!

Jan Goffey â&#x20AC;˘ Pictured are Lyn Evans (fundraising group) Amanda Jones (clerk to the chair) Jan Goffey (chair) Margaret Wonnacott (staunch supporter) and Hugh Norman (previous chair). Â

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NOTICEBOARD

News from Okehampton Town Council The 2018/19 Mayor of Okehampton is Cllr Janet Carpenter.

Cllr Carpenter’s chosen charity for the year is Cancer Research UK. She hosted an afternoon tea fundraiser in the Charter Hall during October and will be holding a coffee morning on Saturday, November 17th between 9am and 12noon. Do come along and support the Mayor in raising funds for the charity.

The council has two Mace Bearers, David Hollinshead and Basil Jones, who accompany the Mayor on civic occasions including Okehampton Show, the Civic Service, Edwardian Evening and the Remembrance Parade and Service. This is a voluntary role for which the council is looking for additional volunteers. Written nominations from anyone interested in this role are welcomed.

November 11th, 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI and in order to commemorate this occasion the town council, in conjunction with the Royal British Legion, will be hosting events throughout the day. The programme has yet to be finalised but may include a bagpiper, bugler and beacon of light, as well as the parade and service at All Saints’ Church.

Town Councillor Surgeries are continuing to take place in the Town Hall on the third Thursday of the month between 10am

THE

and noon; the next being on October 18th and November 15th - there are none in December. Do take the time to come along and chat to a councillor. This is a perfect opportunity, with local elections looming in May 2019, to find out what being a councillor is all about and it if is something that you would be interested in doing.

Please keep an eye on the council’s website at www. okehampton.gov.uk and its Facebook page for further information about events and for information about becoming a Mace Bearer.

Emma James, Town Clerk 01837 53179 townclerk@okehampton.gov.uk

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NOTICEBOARD

Try something new – volunteer with us Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon Citizens Advice (TNMWD) is a local charity that provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice on all subjects to members of the local community. Good quality advice can make a huge difference to people’s lives. Four out of five people who came to us for help said the advice they got improved their lives, including reducing stress and improving their finances. Volunteering for TNMWD Citizens Advice not only gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives, it allows you to learn new skills and support your local community.

We have various volunteering opportunities available and are looking for volunteers from all walks of life.

In particular we wish to train more advisers to expand our telephone and digital service and explore more ways of improving our service in the rural parts of Devon. We currently have offices in Barnstaple, Bideford, Crediton, Okehampton, Tavistock and Tiverton. If you can commit to a few hours a week and want to try something

new then come and volunteer with us.

We will give you all the training you need as well as support from a trained supervisor and pay travel expenses.

We are also looking to recruit new Trustees to join our Trustee Board. Our volunteer Trustees are responsible for setting the overall strategic direction and development of the charity, for governance and financial controls and for establishing an effective fundraising strategy. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who can bring different skills, experience and perspectives - in particular, we are keen to hear from people with legal, fundraising or marketing/PR experience.

The Citizens Advice service is committed to valuing diversity and promoting equality. We encourage and welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds regardless of age, disability, gender and sexual orientation.

To find out more please contact our training officer on trainingofficer@ ruraldevoncab.org.uk or 01237 426070

Christmas on the Moors at the Tors Inn A warm Christmas welcome awaits you at this wonderful moorland inn. Kevin, Emma, Amelia and our wonderful team look forward to welcoming you over the Christmas festive season and throughout the year.

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November neutering campaign

Okehampton & District Cats Protection is promoting the benefits of having your cat neutered with a neutering campaign for the month of November.

For just a £5 donation, your cat will be neutered free of any charges.

Participating vets are Okeford Vets at Okehampton and Chagford and North Park Vets at Okehampton, Hatherleigh and North Tawton. This offer only applies to neutering performed at these surgeries.

Please remember that by having your cat neutered you are helping it to have a healthy future.

Okehampton and District Cats Protection covers the Hatherleigh and Okehampton area. The branch is run entirely by a small band of dedicated volunteers there are also a number of fosterers based in villages in the area.

Please ring 01837 738028 for more information about the neutering campaign or how you can help the branch.

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NOTICEBOARD

Time to take a breath!

It was a long hot busy summer for the Ranger team and we are glad that the weather is changing as this often signals less people out on the moor and hopefully a few less issues to deal with. This gives us, the farmers/landowners and the land itself a chance to take a breath!

It has been a particularly busy year with the ranger team attending lots of events. On August 21st the popular free Meldon Wildlife Festival was organised again, this busy day saw between 550 and 600 people come to Meldon Old Quarry. The festival is co-ordinated by Dartmoor National Park Authority and brings together a wide range of wildlife organisations who set up a ‘tented village’, drawing people from the wider Okehampton area.

However, the practical work never stops as we are still completing large contracted works on public rights of way and promoted routes. We have a narrow window to complete these jobs between a very busy summer dealing with members of the public and getting the works complete before the weather breaks and ground conditions become too wet.

One such example is the work due to take place on the Rattlebrook track. This project will be funded by Donate for Dartmoor as well as Duchy of Cornwall and the MoD. It involves undertaking drainage and surfacing work along approximately a 2km section, in preparation for peatland restoration due to take place on Amicombe Hill over winter.

Simon Lee, Ranger Team Manager Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor Local Plan Consultation We’re publishing a draft new Local Plan for Dartmoor, and consulting on it between 3rd December 2018 and 4th February 2019. The Local Plan sets out what type of development is and isn’t acceptable in the National Park; it is what we use to decide planning applications, and sets out where future development may take place. Help us plan for Dartmoor’s future by commenting on it – it’s important to tell us what you like, as well as anything you’d like to see change. View and comment on the plan online or at libraries, parish councils and information centres during the consultation period. dartmoor. gov.uk/localplanreview

Have a chat with us about the Plan and how it might affect you at our public drop-in event in your area – for a list of other drop-in events see the website: Whiddon Down Village Hall - 13 December 3pm - 6pm Moretonhampstead Community Club - 18 December 3pm - 6pm Join the discussion: Twitter: @DartmoorPlan; Facebook: / DartmoorPlan; forwardplanning@dartmoor.gov.uk; 01626 832093

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SPORTS CLUB NEWS

Chagford Runners Chagford Runners is a friendly local running group based at The Clubhouse, War Memorial Fields, Chagford.

The runners meet every Monday at 7pm at the clubhouse for an hour of running, split into two or three groups, depending on speed and distance. The sessions are always varied, everything from ‘run and swim’, making the most of Chagford pool in the summer, to moonlight runs on the moor in the winter.

Group member Rachel Short said: ‘We cater for runners of all ages and ability; from complete beginners, who can do the “Couch to 5K” programme with us, to endurance athletes, completing marathon and longer distances.

‘Every summer we organise a cross Dartmoor run from Lydford to Chagford, nearly 19 miles of tough terrain, and the famous Chagford Two Hills race at the end of May. ‘We are a family friendly club; some of our best runners are at both ends of the age scale, some only just into double figures and others into the super vet categories. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.’

Serious training is mixed with fun running, especially over the summer when the runners get out on the moor and to the coast, incorporating a pub stop where possible.

The clubhouse bar is always open for refreshments afterwards.

Rachel added: ‘We do a more casual run on Saturday mornings, meeting at 10am in Chagford square and usually run around the nearby lanes and fields with a choice of distance; either 5k or 10k.’

New members are welcome – there is no joining fee, but a charge of £2.50 for adults and £1.00 for children in made on a pay as you go basis for the Monday night sessions.

For more information please contact Rachel Short – rachelshort36@gmail.com or Kate Webber krwmakeup@ hotmail.com or see the group’s Facebook page Chagford Runners which has details of the current running programme.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Kat Middleton Finding creativity in recycling Artist Kat is originally from Falmouth in Cornwall. She moved to Devon to train in equine science and fell in love with Dartmoor - an area she finds beautiful and constantly inspirational.

She has always loved working with her hands and when the debilitating effects of ME finally prevented her from practising as a horse and dog behavioural therapist and trainer, she decided to concentrate on art, as a less physically demanding way of working.

‘It seemed a good opportunity to take a different pathway, and I just love creating things, I love working with my hands’ said Kat. ‘I’ve done everything from oil paintings, acrylics, water colours, pyrography - you name it, artwise, I’ve done it! I’ve particularly got into alcohol inks recently - I like the vibrant colours you get with them and they are really versatile, although they are very different. You have to use them on impervious surfaces, so I use plastic paper - they are good on tiles too - you can get all sorts of fantastic effects.’

Kat’s most recent venture is into jewellery - in fact, junk jewellery is a term that could have been coined for some of her creations, as her light and delicate earrings and necklaces are fashioned from old CDs and DVDs. Using the alcohol inks and shaped sections of CD, the jewellery has the effect of fused glasswork - but is incredibly light to wear.

‘I cut the pieces first, then melt them - I actually cook them under the grill!’ laughed Kat. ‘And if you put them in the microwave, they come out with a kind of filigree pattern!

There’s something different about the manufacturing process of DVDs and CDs which is quite bizarre, the colours come out very different.’

Kat says her new line in upcycled CD jewellery is beginning to be quite popular and she has struck up a partnership with Proper Job in Chagford to source materials for her creations.

Her latest inventions involve reel-ends of electrical wire. She strips off the plastic outer coating, coils the wire, saws it through, polishes it in a tumbler to smooth it down and then

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

painstakingly, with two pliers, she coils the circles together to make intricate woven copper bracelets.

She said she loved to recycle materials that would otherwise have gone into landfill - she’s working on a way to deal with the plastic she strips from the copper wire and would dearly like to work her way to ‘zero waste’.

‘I try not to buy beads for my jewellery, I use charity shops and up-cycle as much as I can,

although I do have to buy the clasps and chains. It’s so nice to use as much recycled material as possible, I hate the idea of stuff being buried in dumps or affecting sea life in the oceans.

If we all did a little bit to cut down on waste it would make such a difference.’

Animal lover Kat, 57, may no longer work with dogs or horses, apart from ‘the odd job here and there’, but she and her husband still have their own two very friendly canine companions, Sunka and Poco, both rescued dogs.

They both share her love of walking on the moors near their home in Bridestowe, the village in which they have lived for around 15 years.

While Sunka and Poco may not appreciate the natural beauty of Dartmoor, Kat certainly does: ‘If you are creative and see this lovely landscape all around you, the colours, the trees, it can’t help but give you inspiration.

‘I love the wildness of the moors. Having grown up near the sea I do miss being able to walk out on the beach easily - but this is every bit as good - just different.’

Jane Honey

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Alison Hastie A craftswomen with a life-long passion for shoemaking

When Alison Hastie arrived in Devon to study for a degree in English Literature at Exeter University in 1975, she probably never imagined her life being dominated by the creation of hand-made footwear!

in Devon. At an event called Hood Fair, I met Andy Langford and another guy who were making shoes. I really wanted to learn to do this, I kept on at them and eventually they said “join us”,’ said Alison.

One of the founders of Green Shoes in Moretonhampstead, Alison was very much the product of a different time, far removed from the current age, dominated by the internet and mountains of red tape and legislature.

Before long, Alison and a girlfriend, Sarah Almy, had set up on their own shoemaking business - Green Shoes was born, starting with the princely sum of £300 each, based at a women’s centre in Totnes.

‘It was the 1970s, there was no student debt, no pressure to have “A Career”.

From the age of about 21 I wanted to earn my living using my hands. I suppose it was idealistic, but I set about trying to find people that were involved in crafts

Working on the premise that the business had to be family-friendly, everyone joining Alison and Sarah in their fledgling enterprise did part-time hours, four days a week, working as a team. From the days of hand-drawn

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adverts, leaflets printed on a Gestetner duplicator and one colour printing, Green Shoes has grown, moved, has a classy website - but now the presentation of its printed information has almost turned full circle, going back to those simpler days.

‘It’s a bit like re-inventing the wheel in a way - but it’s rather nice really,’ Alison smiled.

Green Shoes has only ever employed women - Alison said over the years they had interviewed men, but male employees had ‘never really happened’.

‘I think one of the reasons was that right at the beginning, when you are learning the skills with the tools, sometimes men could make you feel unconfident. We are about building self-confidence,’ said Alison, who added that Green Shoes had also recently been asked to run some general leather craft workshops.

She said being able to be creative was a tremendous way of building resilience and a sense of achievement.

‘Spreading the simple skills of leather working is a small contribution that Green Shoes can make - who knows, it

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LOCAL PEOPLE

AMBER & MALLOW may spark a lasting interest in someone? Also we get huge pleasure from helping someone make a purse or on a longer workshop a pair of shoes, so it works both ways!’

‘The ethos of the theatre is for people of all ages to work together in artistic endeavours that are locally distinctive and help to reinforce local identity and confidence. These ideas are at the root of Green Shoes as well, and the way I work and think.’

And what about the name?

Alison is a new trustee of Moretonhampstead Development Trust, set up to help promote the economic and social welfare of Moreton and instrumental in starting Greenhill Arts.

‘It’s called Green Shoes for some key reasons,’ explained Alison. ‘The shoes are re-soleable, so they are green in that sense, trying to reduce what goes into landfill. We started back in the 1980s, when the Green Party started and we were always keen on them - and Devon is a beautiful green county.’

Aside from shoemaking, Alison, 61, loves her adopted county deeply and counts herself as extraordinarily lucky to be able to walk straight from her garden and onto the moor at her home in Belstone.

She enjoys the arts in all its forms and was a founder member of MED Theatre.

She said: ‘I did a bit of acting, but much preferred designing and making the costumes and although I’m no longer directly involved, I always support their work.

‘I have always felt strongly about the link between local business, arts and a healthy community ever since my early days in Totnes,’ said Alison, who believes providing skilled local jobs is vital to everyone.

After nearly 40 years in business, Alison, now a grandmother, is never happier than when drawing, designing, creating or spreading the word about shoemaking.

‘I am afraid it is a real lifelong passion!’ said this enthusiastic craftswoman.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Jane Honey

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Andrew Sinclair Bringing sculptures to life

One of the UK’s foremost sculptors, Andrew Sinclair, counts himself a lucky man to be living and working in the depths of the West Devon countryside near North Tawton.

Andrew was born in Poole, schooled in London but left his former home in Wendover four years ago, desperate to quit the rat-race and the imminent construction of the HS2 track through the area. He said he couldn’t believe how the stress of home counties living and commuting almost instantly lifted following his move to Devon.

‘I absolutely love it here, it feels like I’ve come home, like years of having no roots have just

slipped away. It’s like a bubble of loveliness,’ he said - and you can see he genuinely means it.

It’s also ideal for the cycling and kayaking he loves to do in his spare time.

He started working life as a cabinet maker and spent a while as a despatch rider until a ‘spectacular’ accident put paid to life in the saddle. His compensation money spent on a small studio, he spent seven years working for a moulding and casting company before striking out on his own.

Fast forward some 25 years, he has received commissions from all over the world, from private individuals to

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celebrities like European rap star Sido, for whom he created a perfect, life-sized sculpture, complete with hoodie, in just five days. The video in which it appears, alongside Sido himself, has received more than 40 million hits on You Tube to date.

A series of portrait bas relief for the royal box at Ascot, together two coats of arms, has allegedly received a queenly nod of approval.

Andrew also completed many works for publishing giant Felix Dennis, such as his famous life-sized Durer’s Rhino, plus twelve of the sculptures in Dennis’s amazing Heroes and Villains garden near Stratford-upon-Avon, including one of King Kong.

‘Felix was quite an unusual character, quite a maverick,’ said Andrew, who said he would love to create his own sculpture garden one day. ‘I’d love to let rip with my own imagination, rather than be tied to someone else’s design,’ he said.

His life-sized bronze statue of David Bowie, which stands in Aylesbury market place, was unveiled in March this year, to great acclaim. Sadly, this tremendous work was vandalised within

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LOCAL PEOPLE

home in an effort to escape the ‘yo-yo’ income of being a sculptor.

days, the perpetrators claiming the £115,000 it cost should have been spent on the town’s homeless.

‘What made me so cross was it was so stupid, as the guy who raised so much money for it did a tremendous amount of work for the homeless in Aylesbury!’ said Andrew.

He and his partner Diane Coates set up The Sculpture School at their new Devon

‘I actually really enjoy teaching,’ said Andrew. ‘I hated the idea to start with, but found I love getting the lights going on in somebody’s eyes.

When I teach I am trying to explain things at a very basic level. If you get the basic design right, all the rest falls into place. If you get it wrong, it doesn’t matter what you do, it will never be a good sculpture. And the funny thing is, I think I have become a better sculptor as a result of teaching other people.’

His passion for teaching spills into his philosophy about art.

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‘It’s become the least important subject at school, but actually I think it should be one of the most important. We are the only species on earth that has ever completed works of art or had the cognitive capacity to be able to understand the abstract, or create reality from inks and clay. It’s part of our soul and you can’t belittle that by working on exam statistics.’

He enjoys the challenge of commission work: ‘It’s about getting the best out of someone else’s imagination. They have to be wowed by what I’ve done for them.’

Andrew’s current project is to sculpt the Duke of Wellington’s Regimental Memorial. The life-sized work involves a figure of the Duke himself, plus Napoleonic, First World War and contemporary soldiers. Although the faces are all different, the noses are similar and obviously Wellingtonian.

Other elements in the brief include the game of rugby, the regiment’s colours, its family culture and an Indian elephant. Andrew is aiming for strong characterisation, hoping to draw the onlooker into the work, not simply observing it and walking away.

The project involves a huge amount of historic research - prolific reader Andrew believes immersion in the characters will bring his sculpture to life.

Having seen the work in progress, I have no doubt it will be received to great acclaim.

Jane Honey

18 Red Lion Yard, Okehampton EX20 1AW

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01837 52368 17

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT EDUCATION

New Post-16 Centre for Okehampton College The students and staff at Okehampton College are looking forward to a major boost to their facilities, as work on their new Post-16 Centre has now begun in earnest.

The college received the go-ahead to begin the development of the former Wardhayes care home, which from September 2019 will be the new home of their sixth-form. The vast building is receiving a significant makeover and will comprise teaching rooms, ICT suites, a large café, student social areas, study rooms and garden space.

Neil Sproats, who is assistant principal and Post-16 leader, said: ‘We are all delighted that after many months of planning and decision making the work has now started. Wardhayes is

only 40 yards from the current Post-16 building and so is in a perfect location for our Post-16 students to have their independence from the lower school, but still be able to easily access their classes on the main site.

‘It is hugely exciting, and our students will soon have top-class study and social facilities at Wardhayes. We very much see this as a new chapter for Okehampton College Post-16 and we think this will be an important factor in attracting more students to study with us after Year 11.’

The work is due to be completed between Easter and the early summer of next year with the students accessing the block for the start of the 2019/20 academic year. Mr Sproats added: ‘The

Post-16 area of the college is a high performing one and results this summer were again very strong. I believe Wardhayes will allow us to build upon prior successes and will allow us to grow our Post-16 to continue to meet the needs of the young people in the area.

‘It’s great news for not only our current Year 11 students, who will be the first to benefit, but for all the younger years who will be our sixth-formers of the future.

‘We look forward to seeing this building undergo its transformation from a closed-down care home to a modern educational hub from which thousands of local young people will benefit over the next few decades.’

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SCHOOL EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT

Children’s curiosity is key at pre-school Youngsters in the rural area to the north west of Okehampton are being offered education at a new facility this term.

Opened in September 2018 at Boasley Cross Primary School, Littlemoor Pre-School embraces the Reggio Emila approach to early education – an educational philosophy centred on child-led, experiential learning in relationship-driven, natural environments. At Boasley Cross, staff focus on pupils’ natural development; the child is respected and the school encourages their sense of curiosity, allowing them to succeed long-term.

This unique approach to educating children was founded in the villages around Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II. Parents were looking for a way

to teach their children and found that the early years of development were the best time to help children figure out who they are as individuals.

Parental involvement is invited and encouraged. The pre-school offers a heuristic environment where the outside and inside environments merge, making the most out of the five senses while fostering creativity.

Its guiding principles are: Image of the child – Adults are aware of each child’s potential and it’s their responsibility to help support and guide children throughout the journey of learning.

ENGLISH TUTOR

Dartmoor School of English believes face-to-face tuition is the best way forward if you want to improve your grades and get great job opportunities.

What are the possibilities?

One-to-one tuition and small-sized classes are currently available at discounted rates to local residents. As an English teacher, I have been privileged to provide tuition to primary and secondary school children and to university students.

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Emergent curriculum – Through careful observation of the classroom, teachers can introduce learning explorations and provocations and develop longterm projects. The curriculum emerges from the children, allowing the learning process to become a spiralling progression.

Role of the environment – classrooms are open, inviting spaces filled with natural resources, real life materials, mirrors, windows and natural lighting.

Learning spaces are designed to promote a sense of wonder, inquiry, and human connection.

Parental involvement – learning takes place not only in school but at home and in the community. Parents are encouraged to participate in their child’s education and daily life at school and to extend and reinforce learning opportunities at home.

Beasley Cross headteacher Deirdre Petersen said: ‘At Littlemoor PreSchool, we believe that children are not empty vessels waiting to be filled with adult-given knowledge, but are constructors of their own learning and experience. Children can find meaning and joy through play. Each child has their own language, their own path towards learning. Each child’s unique path becomes our focus.’

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CHARITY FOCUS

A glorious year round spectacle Celebrating art and nature at Stone Lane Gardens As autumn shows its colours, set on a Dartmoor hillside less than ten miles from Okehampton, a year-round arboretum gently changes its beautiful foliage for a winter spectacle of silver, red, pink, black and gold bark, set against the water garden’s rivulets of glistening spring water.

The Stone Lane Gardens, near Drewsteignton, are giving their seasonal display of Birch and Alder in rich solstice hues, so different from its spring and summer showing of opulent yellows and greens. Now is the time to see the gardens lit by low winter sun shining from a bright blue sky, or under a sprinkling of snow, making the landscape every bit as enticing for garden lovers as any other time of the year.

One of the tree species to grace the gardens is Silver Birch, Betula pendula, which has many historical uses including in traditional medicine. In mythology, silver was supposed to have mystic powers and was one of the seven metals of antiquity. Listed in the ages of man, silver, ruled by Zeus, was full of blessed spirits. Down in a hidden corner near a tranquil pool is a registered ‘Silent Space’ set aside for contemplation.

To establish the arboretum in the 1970s - a National Collection of Birch and Alder - original owner Kenneth Ashburner brought back rare and unusual specimens of these trees from abroad and found a new home for them in a field across from the farmhouse in which he and his artist wife June lived.

Dartmoor, known for its many natural springs, offered up fresh water which Kenneth incorporated into his designs to create an enchanting water garden among the trees. The Water Garden is currently the subject of a restoration appeal and

local landscape designer, Duncan Rice, has drafted re-planting plans following Kenneth’s original drawings.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2018, The Mythic Garden Sculpture Exhibition at Stone Lane, which started out as a modest display of local art founded by artist June Ashburner, has recently ended and plans are afoot for the new sculpture exhibition in 2019. This year’s exhibition included a work by internationally renowned, locally-based sculptor, Peter Randall-Page. Peter’s often dramatic and monumental work in stone is in prominent collections world-wide, including the Eden Project. Peter has been generous enough to offer an early work on permanent loan ‘Fish Out of Water’, positioned in the water garden.

Coppelia House is a residential home for the elderly located in the ancient market town of Moretonhampstead.

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CHARITY FOCUS

architects alike. Similarly, sales of Dartmoor Wild Flower Honey are provided from hives kept at Stone Lane by a professional bee keeper.

The Ashburners established Stone Lane as a charitable trust and following June’s death in 2016, the trustees formed plans to make the charity fully sustainable. The traditional old stone and cob barns, now in need of some restoration, are currently let as artists’ workshops and the large hay barn is hired out year round as a gallery and occasional music venue.

During the recent Devon Open Studios fortnight the barn gallery was again for hire. In one of the smaller barns, resident willow sculptor, Katherine Miles has a workshop. To show how Dartmoor farms once looked, the unrestored ‘Goat Barn’ has been opened up for visitors to see inside. In the summer, the barn is a haven for nesting swallows. Professional photographer, John Howells, best known for his landscape and wildlife work, runs regular workshops for photography enthusiasts from here and has work for sale in the visitors’ centre.

Stone Lane Gardens is also a nursery and rare saplings of birch are for sale to amateur and professional gardeners and

For 2019, Stone Lane Gardens is delighted to have been selected by the Royal Horticultural Society as an RHS Partner Garden and looks forward to many more visitors who appreciate the hard work put in by garden manager Paul Bartlett and his team of volunteers. During the selection process, both the curator of RHS Rosemoor and the RHS Director of Horticulture gave very positive accounts of the gardens.

Stone Lane Gardens is open every day, 10am to 6pm. Entry £6. Refreshments available. For more information call 01647 231311 or go to www.stonelanegardens.com Anna Imrie, Stone Lane Gardens Contact: Anna – (01647 433 771) pressoffice@stonelanegardens.com www.stonelanegardens.com

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HEALTH HEALTH & WELLBEING & BEAUTY

Art and well-being Dartmoor artist Laure Bury explains the positive benefits of creativity We know that human beings have had the desire to express themselves artistically throughout history, thanks to the discovery of the famous cave paintings at Lascaux in France, which are thought to be around 20,000 years old. All the extraordinary art that fills our galleries and museums around the world reiterates this.

Pablo Picasso famously said ‘Every child is an artist’ yet unfortunately, for many years, we have thought of artists as being ‘special’, or credited with some sort of divine talent, totally out of reach of the average person. At school, we have also separated the children who are ‘good at art’ from those who are ‘no good at art’. This is a shame and a misconception.

Creativity is at the core of every person’s being. If we do not express ourselves creatively, we are missing out on a very important and fulfilling part of ourselves.

If we suffer from anxiety or depression, it can be difficult to find the words to express how we feel. Art can be a very useful and beneficial tool in reducing anxiety, because words are no longer necessary. This is why art therapy and music therapy are used in hospitals around the world for improving mental health.

Carl Jung used Mandalas in psychotherapy, as a tool for processing emotions. These are intricate circular and symmetrical patterns which can be filled in with colour. It is interesting to note that the same tool is used in Tibetan and other Eastern philosophies for meditation and mindfulness.

Colouring books for adults have recently become very popular in this country for their potentially healing effect.

Thomas Merton said ‘Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time’.

We can indeed process our ‘stuff’ while creating and going ‘into the zone’.

Finding the time to be creative, whether it is through art, craft, music, cooking, gardening, or any other creative means, can take us away from our problems and into a meditative state which is now proven to be very beneficial to our mental health. If we can release expectations, and detach ourselves from the outcome and simply enjoy the process of creating, we are likely to feel much happier in all other areas of our lives.

I am fortunate enough to be a full time professional artist and because I have found this to be potentially transformational in my own life, as well as other people’s lives, I completed a foundation course in Art Therapy and

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now give workshops from my studio on Dartmoor. No previous knowledge of art is necessary, but within a few hours, each student creates a beautiful and colourful painting they can hang on their wall. I provide a calm and safe place for my students to express themselves creatively.

I have also travelled to Peru and India where the children I worked with had no art materials whatsoever. My son and I travelled with a suitcase full of art materials and gave workshops in orphanages, which was a very rewarding experience.

Initially, the children were quiet and shy and seemed almost afraid of the chance to express themselves through art. But they soon relaxed and created beautiful, colourful paintings and, at the end of the day, the beautiful smiles on their faces told us all we needed to know.

Laure Bury www.laurebury.com

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HEALTH HEALTH & WELLBEING & BEAUTY

Flu - best way to prevent it - and treat it Dr Emma Chapman shares advice about an illness that tends to strike in winter Flu can be unpleasant, but if you are otherwise healthy it will usually clear up on its own within a week. Flu circulates every winter and generally peaks in December and January.

This means many people get ill around the same time.

Flu vaccine is the best protection we have against an unpredictable virus that can cause unpleasant illness in children and severe illness and death among at-risk groups, including older people, pregnant women and those with an underlying medical health condition.

Studies have shown that the flu vaccine will help prevent you getting the flu. It won’t stop all flu viruses, so it’s not a 100% guarantee that you’ll be flu-free, but if you do get flu after vaccination, it’s likely to be milder and shorter-lived than it would otherwise have been.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

Flu can be more severe in certain people, such as: • anyone aged 65 and over • pregnant women • children and adults with an underlying health condition (such as long-term heart or respiratory disease) • children and adults with weakened immune systems Anyone in these risk groups is more likely to develop potentially serious complications of flu, such as pneumonia (a lung infection), so it’s recommended that they have a flu vaccine every year to help protect them.

adults (but not children) at risk of flu including pregnant women, people aged 65 and over, people with long-term health conditions and carers.

Can I get the flu vaccine privately?

Adults who aren’t eligible for a flu vaccine on the NHS can pay for a flu vaccination privately. The flu vaccine may be available from pharmacies or some supermarkets. The vaccine costs up to £20.

Flu symptoms Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include: • a sudden fever – a temperature of 38c or above • aching body • feeling tired or exhausted • dry, chesty cough • sore throat • headache • difficulty sleeping • loss of appetite • diarrhoea or tummy pain • nausea and being sick

The difference between cold and flu FLU

The flu vaccine is routinely offered on the NHS to:

• • •

• •

COLD

• • • • •

children aged two and three children in reception class and school years 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 children aged two to 17 years at risk of flu those who live in a residential home if you are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill your child is in an at-risk group and is aged between 6 months to 2 years you are a healthcare or social worker directly involved in patient care

Where to get the flu vaccine You can have your NHS flu vaccine at your GP surgery, a local pharmacy offering the service or your midwifery service if they offer it for pregnant women Some community pharmacies now offer flu vaccination to

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• • •

Appears quickly, within a few hours Affects more than just your nose and throat Makes you feel exhausted and too unwell to carry on as normal Appears gradually Affects mainly your nose and throat Makes your feel unwell, but you’re OK to carry on as normal (for example go to work)

How to treat flu yourself To help you get better more quickly you should rest and sleep; keep warm; take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and treat aches and pains and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

A pharmacist can give treatment advice and recommend flu remedies. Be careful not to use flu remedies if you’re taking paracetamol and ibuprofen tablets as it’s easy to take more than the recommended dose.

Dr Emma Chapman Okehampton Medical Centre

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GARDENING Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ AGM ©RHS/Carol Sheppard

Your very own ‘Winter Garden’ Some suggestions to cheer in the longer, darker days

Richard Wilson

As the nights draw in and the weather turns chill, many gardeners look out at the garden and perhaps think that this is the end for another season. Admittedly, summer perennials have done their thing and are in need of cutting back and the expected detritus and leaves blown in by the first storms is beginning to collect in the corners, but all is not necessarily lost.

Colour, scent, foliage and structure in a winter’s garden can be incredibly uplifting and combining a few select plants in amongst some well-placed evergreens and architectural seed heads can give a remarkable effect. Here are some suggestions of plants to introduce into your garden areas to keep the colours and scents flowing through the coming months.

Mahonia japonica AGM. A distinct addition to any garden, evergreen with drooping sprays of yellow, fragrant flowers.

There are a myriad of evergreens available on the market and a great place to start would be the RHS top 5 evergreens, all of which are well worth a try: Daphne × transatlantica [Eternal Fragrance] = ‘Blafra’ AGM; Euonymus fortunei ‘Silver Queen’ AGM; Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ AGM; Osmanthus × burkwoodii AGM; Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Irene Paterson’ AGM

Lonicera fragrantissima, sweetest Honeysuckle; small cream flowers through the winter pack a fragrance punch!

Erica × darleyensis ‘J.W. Porter’ AGM. A Heather which is easy to grow and will tolerate most soils.

Viburnum tinus. An evergreen shrub with pink tinged, white, fragrant flowers throughout the winter.

Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’. Dogwood, to provide striking winter stem colours.

Jasminum nudiflorum AGM. Winter Jasmine, can be trained up a fence or wall and provides a striking profusion of winter yellow flowers.

The benefits of allowing seed heads to remain in the garden are many fold, from providing food and winter shelter for birds and insects, frost protection for emerging buds and to providing the aforementioned structure, height and interest.

It is especially worth leaving the seed heads on Hydrangea, Hylotelephium (Sedum), Rudbeckia, Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel) and Dipsacus (Teasel).

Grasses can provide a wonderful wind-blown movement and sound to your winter display. Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’ AGM and ‘Morning Light’ AGM, Carex dipsacea and Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ are great performers.

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Winter Service now!

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GARDENING

Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ ©RHS/Neil Hepworth

The Rosemoor Winter Trail will be running from November 16th to March 9th when you can get more ideas to keep the interest going in your garden during the winter.

Viburnum tinus ©RHS/Nigel Chapman

Jobs to be getting on with in early winter Prune climbing roses now. Cutting away diseased or damaged growth and tying in any new shoots to their support. Prune older flowered side shoots back by two thirds of their length.

Dead-head autumn-flowering plants and prune summerflowering shrubs before the first frosts.

Move containers of shrubs or bedding plants to a sheltered spot. Clustering them together helps protect the root systems from suffering frost damage.

Lift and store dahlia tubers once their leaves are blackened by frost.

Check climbers are securely attached with plant ties or string to their supports.

There’s still time to get bulbs in the ground in November.

Choose a mixture of varieties and plant in clumps so that you get a good effect.

Spike lawns with a garden fork to improve drainage and aeration.

Keep clearing leaves off the lawn to let the light in and prevent dead patches appearing.

Wash down garden tools and wipe them with linseed oil on wooden and metal areas to help prevent rusting.

Choose a dry day to clear out the garden shed in preparation for the spring.

Repair fences, trellises and walls. Clean out water butts. Wash and disinfect bird feeders, tables and bird baths. Hang fat balls and keep bird feeders topped up to attract birds, who will eat pests in your garden.

Check tree ties and stakes to ensure that trees are secure.

Tighten or loosen ties if necessary.

Turn compost heaps to mix the ingredients and help contents to decompose.

Make a pile of old logs in an undisturbed corner to provide shelter for toads and other wildlife.

Think about ordering seeds for next year, reflect on what worked well this year and what didn’t.

Take an inventory of tools and equipment that you need for next year. Add them to your Christmas list!

Richard Wilson, Horticulturist RHS Garden Rosemoor

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FARMING DIARY

All about reproduction - and the Institute of Part Time Farming?

Hello again everyone. I hope you have all enjoyed the lovely autumn weather. Christmas is not too far away and it will soon be 2019.

The autumn weather has been very kind, nice and warm and dry with just enough rain to keep things moving.

I have told many of our customers that if we had had two really good wet days in May we would have had a really good summer, all the silage pits and hay barns would be full.

Unfortunately that is not how it panned out. May was dry, crops in general were light and food reserves for the animals are looking pretty bleak for the winter. The old saying is ‘Every shower in May gives an extra load of hay.’

Our autumn calving cows have done a really good job, we have had an unusually high amount of twins and some lovely big strong male calves which will hopefully make lovely bulls.

The ewes have just had a busy week, they have all been to see George and Joe, the farm’s resident beauticians, they all had their bikini lines done and their toenails have been clipped ready to see the rams on October 18th. We hope that if they look their best they will all get lucky and be expecting by roughly November 10th.

The rams are all ready and raring to go. Some farmers will put a strap on a ram called a raddle, this will leave a coloured mark on each ewe he covers. We used these for a while and one year we purchased a cracking new ram, who wore a blue mark. After 24 hours 20 ewes had a blue mark, after 48 hours 40 had a blue mark and the next day the ram was dead by the hedge, he did seem to have a smile on his face though.

There are always new developments in farming - I am interested in some new research by the Institute of Part Time Farming. We are thinking that this autumn we will try taking the rams and bulls out at the weekends, we should then only need to work five days a week during the birthing season - it sounds almost too good to be true...!

In the summer we flew to Scotland and purchased two young bulls, Sportsman and Black Bill. It is always interesting using a new bull. You always wonder what the calves will be like and the effect the genetics will have on the herd. Sportsman was old enough when the heifers were ready to be bulled this autumn, so on a beautiful October day he got to meet 21 young ladies. When next July comes around we will be able to see the fruits of his labours.

Farmer Luxtons will now be ramping up for Christmas. We will be filling the shelves with seasonal offerings - plenty of Christmas turkeys, ducks, chickens and geese. How about a joint of well hung beef from our farm, or local venison cut to your requirements. This year though, things will be better than usual. Our local cheese selection will be larger, we will have local beer, wine and spirits including some seasonal specials like mulled cider and Christmas pudding wine. The order books will be open but please don’t leave it too late as we don’t want anyone disappointed.

I hope that everyone has a great festive period and a Happy New Year.

Stuart Luxton

29

WHAT’S ON

Regulars

At Okehampton Library between 10.30am and 11.30am, for children aged 5+. Free, no booking necessary.

please ring 01837 851269 or 82743.

Donations of puddings welcome!! Please bring your own drink.

TUESDAYS (DURING TERM TIME)

FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH RUN IN THE PARK

9 NOVEMBER

Tai Chi for good health, relaxation and vitality, 11.40am - 12.40pm, Church House, South Tawton. Everyone welcome. Contact Kate Dixon, kate@forestchi.co.uk Tel: 01837 840959 www.forestchi.co.uk TUESDAYS At Okehampton Library - 10am until 10.30am, Bounce & Rhyme for over one year olds; 11am until 11.30am, Bounce and Rhyme for under one year olds. Last Tuesday of the month, Bookworms - a book club for children aged seven to eleven between 3.45pm and 4.45pm. Free, no booking necessary.

WEDNESDAYS At Okehampton Library, 9.30am until 10.15am, Duplo Builders and Storytime for children up to five. Free, no booking necessary.

FOURTH THURSDAY PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP This friendly support groups meets at Castle Ham Lodge, Okehampton. Tea, comfort and mutual support are on offer.

Newcomers are welcome. For more information call 01837 55813.

SATURDAYS LEGO BUILDERS

Joint the regular 5k and 2.5k runs around stunning Simmons Park in Okehampton.

Suitable for adults of all ages, young people and families.

LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH OKEY FOLKY FOLK SESSIONS At the Plume of Feathers in Okehampton.

Singers, musicians, poets, step dancers and audience all welcome! The fun starts at 8pm. For more information call Debbie Jessop, 07773 479375.

November 7 NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS FAIR In aid of Devon Air Ambulance. This is the sixth year that Mrs Murray’s Fair has staged a festive event at Lewtrenchard Manor Hotel.

9 NOVEMBER QUIZ AND PUDDING EVENING At Sampford Courtenay Village Hall, 7.30pm. £5 to enter a team of up to five people for the quiz and £5 per person to sample the puddings. To book a table

CHRISTMAS ART AND CRAFT FAIR A wonderful showcase of quality work from celebrated local makers and those further afield. A perfect opportunity to buy unique gifts! At Green Hill Arts, Moretonhampstead.

9 NOVEMBER WINTER EXHIBITION At Wildwood Art Gallery, Horrabridge. The exhibition will feature new and exciting art work in a variety of mediums, plus ceramics, jewellery and felting by some of the region’s finest professional artisans.

Artists include: Richard Slater (Royal Institute), David William Young, Rebecca de Mendonca, Arthur Homeshaw, Shirley Kirkaldy, plus many, many more. There will be plenty of choice for those seeking unique Christmas presents. Preview evening November 9th, 6.30pm - 8.30 pm meet some of the artists and enjoy a glass or two of wine and seasonal nibbles. The exhibition runs until December 24th.

10 NOVEMBER CRAFT FAIR At Belstone Village Hall. Crafts galore, including handmade soaps, baskets,

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WHAT’S ON

felt goods, turned wood, jewellery and leatherwork plus much more.

Refreshments and snacks available.

Admission free. The fair starts at 10.30am and runs until 4.30pm. All proceeds for hall funds.

10 NOVEMBER HATHERLEIGH CARNIVAL All the fun of carnival day, with the colourful procession, fantastic outfits and the famous flaming barrels that are run through the streets of the town during the evening. The procession starts at 6pm, the evening barrel run approximately 9.30pm.

10 NOVEMBER AUCTION OF PROMISES In aid of Bloodwise, at Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall. Nibbles, bar and raffle. Free entry, 7.30pm until 10.30pm. To donate a promise please contact Mary Tomes on 01837 871541 or email poppetmary@ gmail.com

Henning at m.henning@talk21.co, or call 01837 871498. Proceeds for hall funds.

17 NOVEMBER CALL MY BLUFF In a fit of nostalgia and a desire to have a fun evening to raise money, the Belstone Friends of the Children’s Hospice South West are putting on their own version of Call my Bluff, in Belstone Village Hall at 7.30pm, with a finger buffet served at your table during the interval and a licensed bar which opens at 7pm. In this version of the programme, there will be just one team of three and a host (made up of notable members of the Belstone Players!) and you, the audience, will be invited to vote for the person you think has given the most likely definition of the chosen words. Tickets £10 to include supper, available from Edwina on 01837 840332 edwinarobinhill@outlook.com Also on sale at Belstone Thursday Community Café, or by asking any member of the CHSW Friends’ Group.

17 NOVEMBER ASHRIDGE GREAT BARN CHRISTMAS FAYRE

11 NOVEMBER REMEMBRANCE DAY See What’s On Extra 16 NOVEMBER MORE GOOD TOONS With Graham Crocker and Brian Higbee, sung for the Friends of St Bridget’s at St Bridget’s Church, Bridestowe, 7.30pm.

Tickets £6 from 01837 861194. Light refreshments will be served.

With local craft stalls, mulled cider, delicious food and a bouncy snow globe the Ashridge Christmas Fayre is the ideal way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Running from 10am to 4pm, just outside North Tawton, the fayre is a great family day out with hot donuts and festive facepainting for the little ones and Christmas

shopping options for all. Email Shelley at shelleyashridge@gmail.com for more information.

17 NOVEMBER THANK YOU DANCE To commemorate the centenary of Armistice Day, the dance at the Charter Hall in Okehampton will raise funds for the local branch of the Royal British Legion.

With music from The Hummingbirds and Okehampton College Big Band, the dance starts at 8pm, bar available. Tickets are £5 in advance, available from Mooplehog or Donald’s in Okehampton, or £7.50 on the door. Numbers limited.

17 NOVEMBER THREE KINGS CHILDREN’S THEATRE Travelling Light brings its inventive and fresh twist to a classic tale at RHS Rosemoor. Three Kings fuses storytelling, song and dance and puppetry in a sparkling show about finding out where you belong, overcoming your differences and listening to the secret stargazer in each of us. For ages 5+. Performances at 2.30pm & 5.30pm.

17 NOVEMBER LIVE COMEDY: ANGELA BARNES ‘She’s just a gloriously down-to-earth, straight talking and extremely funny comic’ The Guardian. See Angela Barnes at The Plough, Torrington at 8pm. Tickets £15.50.

17 NOVEMBER BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU DANCE A fun dance and French themed evening in Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall with music from Poisson Rouge (Breton and French traditional dance music) and La Vie en Rose (hot Club de Paris style music) plus a talk by wine expert Anthony Stockbridge.

Buffet snacks available to buy. Doors open at 7pm, £8.50 entry in advance (accompanied under 16s free) or £9.50 on the door. Book tickets by emailing Martin 32

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For experienced, local advice you can trust www.peterslaw.co.uk 01837 52379 B i d e fo rd | B u d e | H o l s w o r t h y | O k e h a m p t o n See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

33

WHAT’S ON

Box office 01805 624624.

18 NOVEMBER OKEHAMPTON FESTIVE MARKET

Phone Alexa on 01647277 for further information.

Co-operative. 2pm-4pm at The Eco Hub, Okehampton College. 01837 318050.

24 NOVEMBER WORD WAR 1 EXHIBITION

25 NOVEMBER BELSTONE CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

Some 60 stalls in the centre of Okehampton. See What’s On Extra.

An exhibition of Belstone’s WW1 photos.

See What’s On Extra.

21 NOVEMBER MORETONHAMPSTEAD HISTORY GROUP AGM

24 NOVEMBER ST CLEMENT’S DAY

A short annual meeting will be followed by members sharing a historical artefact of interest to them that members will bring along in actual or photographic form.

7.30pm at The Stables Room in The Union Inn, Moretonhampstead.

22 NOVEMBER CROSSINGS - AN AWARD WINNING PLAY Well-established rural touring companies, Pentabus and New Perspectives come to Lustleigh with a play to mark the centenary of the First World War. Set in a village hall in 1919 and 2019, characters affected by conflict meet, collide and form life-changing bonds. With live music, the actors will travel through the century, exploring relationships and the human instinct to survive, settle and adapt. See Crossings, presented by LEAP and Carn to Cove, at Lustleigh Village Hall at 7.30pm.

Bar and doors open at 7pm. Tickets £10 adults and £8 under 18s from The Dairy or at http://villagesinaction.co.uk/events/ pentabus-theatre-company-crossings/

Celebrate the patron saint of blacksmiths at Finch Foundry in Sticklepath. Watch smiths from all over the UK demonstrate their skills and take part in some fun competitions. Admission free.

24 NOVEMBER LIVE MUSIC: CATFISH BLUES BAND British Blues Award winners Catfish have carved a reputation for themselves as an excellent live band with a phenomenal frontman in 23 year old guitarist/vocalist Matt Long who plays with a real passion for the blues. Over two years they received five nominations in the British Blues Awards and they have just been nominated for four UK blues awards. See them at The Plough, Torrington oat 8pm.

Box office 01805 624624.

24 NOVEMBER FAMILY DAY Jams and chutneys for families! Stories, creative activities, outside play and gardening. A free event through Learn Devon organised by the Harvest Workers

From 11am until 3pm. Tables are available to local craftspeople, charities and those with homemade or homegrown produce.

A 6ft table or space still costs £5 and there are all day refreshments in the form of bacon baps, cakes and hot beverages.

Doors open at 9.30am for setting up.

If you would like to book a table or space, contact Edwina on 01837 840332 edwinarobinhill@outlook.com 25 NOVEMBER OKEHAMPTON FESTIVE MARKET Some 60 stalls in the centre of Okehampton. See What’s On Extra.

25 NOVEMBER FESTIVE AND LOVELY FAIR At the Two Bridges Hotel near Princetown.

A chance to pick up unique Christmas gifts from local artisan businesses. Live music and lunches served. Free entry. The fair runs from 10.30am until 3.30pm.

30 NOVEMBER HONEYCHURCH FUNDRAISING QUIZ At Sampford Courtenay Village Hall at 7.30 pm. Teams of up to 5 people, £5 per person to include cheese and biscuits.

Join us for lunch or dinner and sample some of our award winning food served in our elegant and relaxed dining rooms.

We welcome non-residents so why not pop in for a morning coffee in front of one of our roaring log fires. Or take afternoon tea in our beautiful courtyard.

A Family Run Hideaway in Devon 34

LEWDOWN, OKEHAMPTON, DEVON EX20 4PN TELEPHONE: +44 (0) 1566 783 222

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WHAT’S ON

Drinks will be available. To book your table please phone 01837 851269. All funds raised will go towards St. Mary’s Church, Honeychurch.

29 NOVEMBER THE ART OF THE DEVON GARDEN A Talk by Dr Todd Gray for Okehampton U3A at The Ockment Centre. In his research his study comprised over 600 historical images, some created in glass, pottery, fabric, wood and stone as well as those on paper and canvas. The period covered is from 1200 to the present day and the result is a visual history of Devon Gardens. The talk starts at 2.30pm. For more information call 01837 89209.

share stories at The Ockment Centre, Okehampton between 6pm and 10pm.

Come and meet people from around the world living in Okehampton! Bring a dish from your homeland however near or far.

Bring a board game (or other type of game) that you enjoy playing. Bring an instrument or a song. Or simply bring yourself! Hope to see you there. For more info contact Xristiana 07510664792 and tiankalouli@ yahoo.co.uk 1 & 2 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS ANTIQUES FAIR

30 NOVEMBER GHOST STORIES An evening of live tellings of traditional stories, some set to music, at Okehampton Library. These are performed by a trio of ‘deceased Victorian Librarians’ who are brought back to the library to provide suitable entertainment and make sure everything is in order! Tickets available from Okehampton Library, price to be confirmed.

At the Garden Room, RHS Rosemoor.

Devon County Antiques Fairs organise another of their popular events with a number of carefully selected stall holders from across the South West and beyond, selling a wide variety of antiques and collectables to suit all tastes and pockets.

An early opportunity to pick up a unique Christmas present or two. 10am - 4pm.

Normal garden admission applies.

4 DECEMBER BRIDESTOWE CHRISTMAS FAIR 4 DECEMBER HOSPISCARE LIGHT UP A LIFE SERVICE All are most welcome to join the annual service of remembrance and thanksgiving at 7pm in Fairplace Church, Okehampton.

If you wish to include a loved one in the Book of Memory, please ask for details in the Hospiscare shop.

See What’s On Extra for more information.

6 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CARD MAKING At Okehampton Library between 2pm and 3pm. For under 5s and their carers – 50p per child, no booking necessary.

Some 60 stalls in the centre of Okehampton. See What’s On Extra.

3 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CRAFTS

7 DECEMBER CHAGFORD LATE NIGHT SHOPPING

December

At Okehampton Library between 3.45pm and 4.45pm, for children aged 5+. 50p per child, no booking necessary.

1 DECEMBER MULTICULTURAL FEAST

03 NOVEMBER FIREWORK MAKING

Gather to share food, make new friends,

Come and make sparklers and fireworks on

at

Brought to you by Tavistock BID, this event is free of charge.

6 DECEMBER OKEHAMPTON EDWARDIAN EVENING

OKEHAMPTON FESTIVE MARKET

Christmas Craft Fair

Bedford Square in Tavistock. 11am-2pm

Running from 5pm until 8pm, you can visit Santa in his grotto, be treated to mulled wine and mince pies in selected shops, a free prize draw and music in the town square.

LAKESIDE ROADFORD L AKE

Saturday 24th November 2018 10.30am until 3.30pm Devon's most scenic craft fair • Wide range of local food and craft stands • Indoor Event • Lakeside Café • Children's play area • Scenic walks • Dogs welcome

Free Entry for Customers 01566 784859 • www.southwestlakes.co.uk • lakeside@swlakestrust.org.uk Roadford Lake, between Okehampton and Launceston PL16 0RL Find us on Facebook - Lakeside, Roadford Lake

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

35

WHAT’S ON

7 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CARD MAKING

8 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

8 & 9 DECEMBER DROGO CHRISTMAS MARKET

At Okehampton Library between 9.30am and 10.30am. For under 5s and their carers – 50p per child, no booking necessary.

The Christmas lights go on in Moretonhampstead today! Fun and frolics in the square for all the family, with stalls, food, music and food. From 6pm.

Enjoy a leisurely shopping experience at the Castle Drogo Visitor Centre. A variety of local specialist food, crafts and unique gifts on sale. 10am until 4pm. Normal admission applies.

07 DECEMBER DICKENSIAN EVENING Tavistock from 5:30pm, with late night shopping until 9pm.

Christmas light switch-on at 5:45 pm, Bedford Square.

Steam engines, hot chestnuts and a traditional fairground organ.

Entertainment including Rob Pudner, Dan the Hat magician, Morris Dancers, Stilt Walkers and Christmas carols. Animal enclosure featuring real Reindeer and Father Christmas.

8 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CRAFTS At Okehampton Library between 10am and 11am. For children aged 5+, 50p per child, no booking necessary.

8 DECEMBER GRAND CHRISTMAS FAIR Organised by St Michael’s Church at the Jubilee Hall in Chagford between 10am and 12.30pm. Gifts, plants, tombola, a draw, lots of stalls and refreshments. For more information contact Lucy Shields on 01647 432304.

8 DECEMBER TURKEY AND TINSEL Supper and entertainment in North Tawton Town Hall, organised by the Friends of North Tawton Surgery (FONTS). 7pm for 7.30pm.

8 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL At St Bridget’s Church, Bridestowe.

Come as see a wonderful selection of trees, decorated by local businesses, organisations and individuals.

8 DECEMBER MISTLETOE FAIR Original, handcrafted, high quality gifts and produce available at the Mistletoe Fair in Brentor Village Hall, between 10am and 3pm. Homemade refreshments including lunches will be available, entertainment will be provided by Brentor and Mary Tavy Singing Club and Santa may also visit!

Admission free. For more information see www.brentorvillage.org

Dartmoor’s Art Gallery

Representing the region’s finest artists Fine art inspired by Dartmoor and the Westcountry of England We also offer a range of art classes & felting workshops Gift vouchers also available

08 DECEMBER A CHRISTMAS CAROL STREET SHOW BY UNTAMED THEATRE. Free performances around Tavistock. The walking performances will have limited numbers. See Visit-Tavistock.co.uk for more information and booking info.

9 DECEMBER WREATH MAKING DAY Come along to Hilltown Organics to create your own handcrafted wreath from nuts, seeds, leaves and flowers gathered from the land and warm up with a hot mulled apple juice afterwards! £15/£8 reduced rate. 11am-3pm at Hilltown Organics, Northlew Road. 01837 318050.

9 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CONCERT Okehampton Excelsior Band will stage their annual Christmas concert at the Charter Hall on Okehampton at 6.30pm.

Come an enjoy a wonderful night of music and with a festive theme. Free entry, raffle and refreshments available.

PROFESSIONAL IT SUPPORT FOR HOME AND OFFICE Home set-ups, problem solving and friendly advice.

Office hardware/software, upgrades and optimisation.

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36

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Dartmoor IT advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

10, 11 & 12 DECEMBER ROTARY CHRISTMAS LUNCHES

15 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS STORY

A three course traditional Christmas dinner for senior citizens at Ashbury Golf Hotel, Okehampton by kind permission of Simon and Joan Essex. Entertainment from choir from Okehampton Primary School and a raffle will be held. Please bring any prizes you would like to donate to the raffle with you on the day. Places, £10 per person are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Cheques should be made payable to the ‘Rotary Club of Okehampton’.

At Okehampton Library, 10am. Suitable for all children and their carers - free event no booking necessary.

Application forms will be available from Okehampton Post Office, 8 George Street, Okehampton, EX20 1LP. Completed forms together with payment must be returned to Okehampton Post Office no later than November 30th.

11 & 12 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS FROM THE HEDGEROW WORKSHOP Learn how to decorate your home this Christmas using nature. Please bring a pair of secateurs and an apron - all other materials provided but feel free to bring your own ribbons, baubles and candles.

The day workshop at Lewtrenchard Manor includes morning refreshments and a two course lunch. £40 per person. Call 01566 783222 or email info@lewtrenchard.co.uk to book.

15 DECEMBER LIVE MUSIC: SETH LAKEMAN A rare opportunity (for those who book early...) to enjoy a very special evening in the intimate surroundings of The Plough Arts Centre, in the company of Seth Lakeman. This is a solo performance. Box office 01805 624624.

15 DECEMBER-05 JANUARY TAVISTOCK CHRISTMAS TRAIL Using a map find Father Christmas throughout town and work out what he likes at Christmas to be entered into a prize draw.

Brought to you by Tavistock BID, this event is free of charge.

19 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS BINGO At Sampford Courtenay Village Hall. The doors open at 7 pm and eyes down at 8pm. Prizes include poultry, wine and chocolates. There will be a £40 cash prize on the special flyer. All proceeds go towards the village hall.

22 DECEMBER FAMILY DAY

creative activities, outside play and gardening. A free event through Learn Devon with the Harvest Workers’ Co-operative. 2-4pm at The Eco Hub, Okehampton College. 01837 318050.

20-24 DECEMBER MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS SANTA EXPERIENCE This year, before he heads out on his sleigh, Father Christmas will at RHS Rosemoor to entertain your family with a festive story telling session in his magical workshop theatre. He will be joined by his Elves and Jack Frost too as they help the children to write a letter to Santa and prepare some magical reindeer food ready for Christmas Eve. Your family will learn Santa’s favourite song and of course each family will get the chance to meet the big man himself. Be sure to bring your camera so that you capture a memory forever.

January 12 JANUARY COFFEE MORNING The Inner Wheel Club of Okehampton is hosting a coffee morning at the Charter Hall Okehampton between 9.30am and noon. All the usual stalls. All are welcome to help us raise funds for local charities.

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w w w. m b c a c c o u n t a n t s . c o . u k See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

We have included as many events as possible here in the magazine but for a full and comprehensive list please see our new community website: www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk All event listings are FREE. Send details to editorial@okelinks. co.uk or upload directly to our website by pressing the SUBMIT button

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Lest we forget Commemorating Remembrance this November Remembrance events this year will be particularly special, as towns and villages throughout West Devon mark the centenary of Armistice Day.

immediately after the parade has been dismissed.

Battle’s Over is a nationwide day of commemorative events paying tribute to the millions killed or wounded in battle and those on the home front who struggled amidst pain and loss to help ensure freedom survived. Battle’s O’er, the traditional lament, will be played by pipers at the beginning of November 11th, with buglers sounding the last post just before 7pm. At 7pm, beacons are due to be lit all over the land symbolising the ‘light of hope’ that emerged from the darkness of war. Locally, you can see one at Cosdon and at Meldon. Church bells will be rung in celebration of peace after the lighting of beacons.

In Okehampton, the Remembrance Parade will take place as usual, setting off at 10.30am precisely from the town hall to All Saints’ Parish Church, where a short ceremony will be conducted at the war memorial, followed by two minutes silence at 11am. The church service of Remembrance will follow.

The parade will reform to march to the town hall where the Mayor will be introduced to those on parade. There will be a ‘reception’ in the Charter Hall for the actual parade participants

In Sticklepath, there will be a short service of Remembrance at the village hall war memorial at 3pm.

In South Zeal the parade, including children from the scout and guide movements, will leave the Victory Hall to process to the parish church. Wreaths will be laid at the war memorial and there will be a small exhibition of memorabilia in the Victory Hall.

At 7.30pm on Friday, November 23rd, Chris Walpole will give a talk in the Belstone Village Hall entitled One Hundred Years Ago: Belstone in War and Peace. Refreshments will be available in the interval and donations will be invited for hall funds.

A special display drawn together by Belstone Community Archive, A Village Vicar Remembers the War, will be on show in the meeting room at the village hall on Saturday, November 24th and Sunday, November 25th between 10am and 5pm, admission free. The exhibition tells the story of some of the men from the village who went to war never to return and, using the recently rediscovered words of Rev Milner, village rector at the time, vividly describes life on the edge of Dartmoor during those turbulent years.

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At RHS Rosemoor, you can visit the centenary display comprising 100 ceramic poppies randomly dispersed in a meadow, combined with a spectacular sculpture of the ‘Unknown Soldier’.

The poppies, designed by local artist Renée Kilburn, will be on display on November 11th. Poppies are available to buy for £28 each with £3.50 from every poppy sold going to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Standing tall amongst the poppies is the ’Unknown Soldier’, a life-size WWI infantryman created by another local Rosemoor sculptor, George Hider.

The award-winning exhibition Dartmoor Life in the First World War is currently being staged at the National Park Visitor Centre in Princetown. The exhibition concentrates on the impact of the War on the people of Dartmoor; the requisitioning of horses, conscription, suffragettes, the increased role of women, the conscientious objectors, the treatment of the wounded and many other aspects of life on Dartmoor, before, during and after the War. The exhibition, presented by The Dartmoor Trust and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, includes material from newspapers of the day, memoirs and diaries written by people who lived in the area during the War. Photographs have also been lent by individuals and organisations.

The exhibition runs until November 25th.

The centre is currently open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am until 3.30pm. Admission is free.

39

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

Welcome to...

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

ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE FOR ALL MUSIC EVENTS AT...

www.wegottickets.com

THE ESKIES Friday 9th November

ELECTRONIX Saturday 10th November

SLADE UK Friday 16th November

ALL THE BEST FREAKS – TRIBUTE TO MARILLION Saturday 17th November

Songs such as When the Storm Came, Tear Along the Line, Jesus Don’t Save Me and Wild, Wild Heart have enough inherent energy to charge a power plant.

Electronix 80s Synth Pop Covers Band specialise in all the 80s Synth Pop classics; Human League, Visage etc.

Bring forth your Christmas party with a night of tremendous fun reliving all those Slade hits to sing along to.

Marillion tribute band covering material from the first 5 albums when Fish was at the helm, a truly memorable night in store.

LIVEWIRE AC/DC TRIBUTE Saturday 24th November

THE PORBEAGLES WITH DAVEY DODDS Sunday 25th November

LIFESIGNS Thursday 29th November

JEAN GENIE Friday 30th November

AC/DC tribute complete with cannons, a wall of marshalls, over two hours of high voltage rock and roll

They will get your toes tapping and your feet stomping but they will also conjure atmospheric ethereal delights

Lifesigns is a British prog rock band conceived in 2008 by John Young and is one of the highlights of The Wharf’s programming this year.

John Mainwaring as David Bowie brings to the stage the very essence of what made Bowie so memorable as an artist.

DREADZONE Saturday 1st December

DAVE HANKIN BIG BAND Sunday 2nd December

JOEY THE LIPS Friday 7th December

BON JOVI EXPERIENCE Saturday 8th December

One of the most energetic powerful live bands to emerge from the post rave scene they bring a party to every venue and dancefloor.

Swing into Christmas with the impeccable big band sounds.

Fast…furious and….fun! The band guarantee you won’t be able to stand still for long

Relive those monster hits of the New Jersey giants fronted by Jon Bon Jovi clone Tony Pearce.

THE KINGSTONS Friday 14th December

DESPERADO Saturday 15th December

ULTIMATE ELVIS TRIBUTE Sunday 16th December

BJORN BELIEF Friday 21st December

An exciting 6 piece contemporary band and have a fresh unique sound incorporating an eclectic blend of influences with a passion for ska and reggae

Desperado show their respect for this timeless music with their usual renowned authenticity and accuracy that have become their hallmark

With a full repertoire of songs covering all era’s, the 50’s, 60’s & the iconic Vegas 70’s, The 2 set show is a must!

There has never been a band more popular and guaranteed to bring fun to a venue than an Abba tribute!

Dates and times shown may vary, so please check our website for all up to date information: www.tavistockwharf.com See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

December 6

Okehampton Edwardian Evening The annual spectacular organised by the town’s chamber of trade runs between 6pm and 9pm and draws thousands into the town, eager to savour the Christmassy atmosphere, enjoy the festive fare on offer and take advantage of the late night shopping opportunities.

There will be stalls in the main street, which is closed to traffic, plus a children’s carousel and outside St James’ Church, the Mayor of Okehampton’s carol service will take place, accompanied by Okehampton Excelsior Silver Band. Visitors can warm themselves by the Norwegian fire pit while taking in the sights and an artificial snow machine will make the evening feel even more festive.

The big barrel organ will be rolling out the festive tunes while delicious smells will fill the air, created by a large hog roast and traditional roasted chestnuts.

Of course, Father Christmas will be there in his grotto in the Museum of Dartmoor Life, so make sure the youngsters don’t miss seeing him! Also in Red Lion Yard will be that most Christmassy of beasts, real life reindeer.

Okehampton College Big Band will be performing during the evening at a special concert in the Charter Hall - the college PTA will also be selling tickets for their very popular hamper draw.

If the children don’t actually tell Santa in person what they would really like for Christmas, they can write him a letter at a special ‘Elf Workshop’ in the Plume of Feathers, where it will be stamped and posted into a special postbox — there will be a posse of elves working hard on the evening and after the event to make sure the letters and their replies get sent out!

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See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Dressing up is an important part of Edwardian Evening — the shopkeepers and their staff get into the swing of things by adopting period clothing as they tempt in customers with mulled wine and mince pies.

The Chamber of Trade and Okehampton Carnival are running a joint raffle this year, with the fantastic 1st prize of £1,000 voucher from Enchanted House Beds. Tickets can be purchased from Donalds Menswear, Mooplehog, A little Gift Co, and other retail outlets throughout the town. The prize winner will be selected by the Mayor at 8pm at the Edwardian Evening – all proceeds will be split between the Carnival and the Christmas Lights.

For those driving to Okehampton to enjoy the evening, parking will be free in Mill Road and Market Street car parks from 6pm and free in Simmons Park from 3pm.

41

WINTER HIGHLIGHTS AT THE PLOUGH ARTS CENTRE

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

THE place in North Devon for superb WHAT’S ON EXTRA

live entertainment, theatre, films, live satellite screenings, exhibitions, workshops... and delicious local food!

Paul Foot

Provincial Patriots

Fri 2 Nov 8pm

Sun 4 Nov 7pm

Sarah McQuaid Sun 4 Nov 7.30pm

Plough Arts Centre

Plough Youth Theatre

St Anne’s, Barnstaple

Rob Newman’s Total Eclipse of Descartes

An Intimate Evening with Boycie - Only Fools & Horses actor John Challis

Angela Barnes

Fri 9 Nov 8pm

Sat 10 Nov 8pm

Plough Arts Centre

Plough Arts Centre

Townsend Theatre ‘The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists’

Harry & Chris

Plough Arts Centre

Thur 29 Nov 8pm The George, South Molton & Fri 30 Nov 8pm Plough Arts Centre

Above Bounds Theatre ‘The Elves & The Shoemaker’

Peter Knight & John Spiers

Wed 28 Nov 8pm

Tues 11 - Wed 12 Dec (various times) Plough Arts Centre

Fri 14 Dec 8pm The George, South Molton

Fri 16 Nov 8pm Lynton Town Hall & Sat 17 Nov 8pm Plough Arts Centre

Andy Fairweather Low and The Low Riders + High Riders

Sat 1 Dec 8pm

Plough Arts Centre

Seth Lakeman Solo Sat 15 Dec 8pm

Plough Arts Centre

Dreadnought Southwest ‘The Cause: An Overture of Rebellion & Revolt

Tue 6 Nov 8pm

Plough Arts Centre

Catfish Blues Band Sat 24 Nov 8pm

Plough Arts Centre

Quirk Theatre ‘Puffin Island’ Wed 5 - Sat 8 Dec (various times) Plough Arts Centre

David Mynne in ‘A Christmas Carol’ Fri 21 Dec 8pm St Anne’s, Barnstaple & Sat 22 Dec 8pm Plough Arts Centre

Coming Soon! Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy - Snake Davis Band - Jamie Smith’s Mabon - Dire Streets - Steve Harley 42 To promote your business to 23,536* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk Climax Blues Band - Al Murray - The Animals & Friends - Jason Donovan - Show of Hands - Lil’ Jimmy Reed

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

November 18 & 25 December 2

Okehampton Festive Markets Organised by the One Okehampton community charity, the festive markets will offer residents and visitors to the town a great opportunity to source some Christmas presents that will be that little bit different.

The stalls will be spread right around Okehampton and will provide shoppers with a wide range of unique crafts and gifts, from soaps and woodwork to jewellery and metalwork, plus artisan food producers. The markets also give the opportunity for local charities to showcase their operations alongside commercial businesses.

Rebecca Green of One Okehampton said: ‘We should have masses of stalls - it was a phenomenal success last year and this year will be every bit as great!

In addition, the Elf Outpost will be in operation at the Plume of Feathers. The free workshops for children offer a free hat,

sticker and pencil which they can use to write their letters to Santa Claus, helped by a busy posse of Christmas Elves. After being stamped by the Head Elf, the letters are posted in a special letterbox and then handwritten replies (last year more than 470!) are given out at a free tea party. A group of burly volunteer motorbikers dressed in elf gear deliver the letters to children unable to go to the party.

Rebecca Green said: ‘The Elf Outpost ran brilliantly last year, the kids loved it and the fantastic volunteers that get involved in it all have great fun - it’s hard work but so worthwhile!’

The Christmas Festive Markets will run from 10.30am until 3pm each day of operation. Anyone who would like to get involved in the Elf Outpost or who would like more information should call 07806 770926 or go to www.facebook.com/ oneokehampton

Every fourth Saturday

Kickstart your weekend with a selfless act!

Join the enthusiastic Okement River Improvement Group (ORIG) volunteers and give something back to our thriving community this month.

Each fourth Saturday of the month the ORIG volunteers meet at 10am near the Waitrose Recycling Area and dedicate their morning to help maintain nature’s pristine focal point in our town - the Okement River. The river is currently threatened with the relatively large scale dumping of beer cans and plastic casings into the water flow – each month there’s a new obscene surprise to be found - from toasters to neon orange cones.

Volunteers get fully kitted up in Wellington boots or wader suits before dividing up the river into sections for each pair to work on. Karma also reaps rewards for keen ORIG Volunteers; on one occasion, after abseiling into the steep-banked river and hauling out a large Waitrose shopping trolley, the store rewarded volunteers with a small token of appreciation and a much welcomed hot drink.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Motivation to wake up on Saturday morning and join the group may come from knowing you are not only protecting marine life in the river, but also sea ecosystems from plastic waste, which threatens biodiversity.

Inspiration to join may also come from the knowledge that members of the group range from teenagers through to people in their 90s who, no matter what the weather conditions, continue to give to our beautiful community and climb into and around the Okement on Saturday mornings. Find us on Facebook or just turn up!

Megan Cousins 43

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For the chance to win an autumnal hamper worth over £100... drop your name into Nigel’s Steamer (hat) on Dickensian Evening or email info@hansfordbell.co.uk using “Nigel’s Hamper - Oke” as the subject

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44

MUSIC & ART

Dancing in the sea?

Cogs and Wheel’s Ladies’ Morris ended another successful and busy summer with their annual seaside trip to the Swanage Folk Festival, dancing alongside groups from all over the country, from Yorkshire to Cornwall. The weather was kind and the sea warm enough for the ladies’ traditional dance on the beach and final swim.

The group would like to thank Mike Webber for his great music all weekend, and all the musicians for playing this summer in both extreme heat and light drizzle. Thanks are also due to the ‘Oily Rags’, the partners who turn out to support the ladies and keep the Wheels turning, plus stalwart hat-passer Linda, who makes sure money is collected for local charities.

There was also a very successful Morris workshop for the French visitors during Craôn’s twinning visit to Okehampton and two Memory Café performances.

This year’s programme included, in addition to the weekly pub ‘stands’, appearances at Lustleigh May Day, Okehampton Food Festival and the Sidmouth and Dartmoor folk festivals.

Cogs and Wheels welcome potential new members, both dancers and musicians. If you think you would like a ‘taster session’ do get in touch – at the moment the side draws people from Yeoford to Okehampton and North Lew to Lustleigh. Just ring Ania on 01837 840756 or see www.cogsandwheels.co.uk

November 15

November 18

The Churchfitters – Folk Unlimited

Paddleboat Theatre – Rustle

The Churchfitters is a folk band like no other. A double bass made out of a motor bike petrol tank. Heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by a musical saw. Foot-stompingly fast fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock rhythms and traditional tunes reinvigorated with mesmerising jazz sax!

Imagine that you’re far from home Playing in the woods all on your own And all is still and calm and clear – But what’s that rustle that you hear?

PaddleBoat Theatre Company invites you to help set up camp so that you can hear the greatest campfire story ever told: where sleeping bags evolve into monsters, rucksacks become friends and torches highlight the forest’s closest secrets.

Throw in exquisite harmonies, a slew of startlingly original songs and a few jokes that create instant rapport and you’ve got a high energy show that always leaves audiences cheering. How do you adequately describe such a musically diverse, uplifting band? Just leave it to Mike Harding, a self-confessed ‘huge, huge fan’. He calls their music ‘totally brilliant and beautiful’.

See The Churchfitters on Thursday, November 15th at 7pm in The Nicholls Hall, Lydford. Tickets from 01822 820589.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Join in an interactive family adventure, jam-packed with puppets, songs and outdoor surprises on Sunday, November 18th at 3pm at South Zeal Victory Hall. Tickets from 01837 840829 / 07980 837156.

This production is part of the Villages In Action autumn programme, which brings top class performances to village venues across Devon, thanks to a team of dedicated volunteers and funding from Arts Council England. All of the Villages in Action events and booking information can be found on the VIA website: www.villagesinaction.co.uk 45

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46

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MUSIC & ART

November 23

Living Spit – Giants of Science Howard Coggins knows nothing about science. Stu Mcloughlin knows even less.

Nevertheless, they have agreed to give a comprehensive lecture on the subject, and by enlisting the help of the smartest scientific sages of the ages, that is just what they aim to do.

But even with the likes of Albert Einstein, Galileo, Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and . . . um . . . Kriss Akabusi along for the ride, the chances of the dim-witted duo making it

through the evening with any sense of dignity remaining intact seems less than likely. Still, they are determined to stay positive. With jarring jokes, pitiful puppetry, and the silliest of scientific songs, you can expect this raucous romp through the hilarious history of scientific stupidity to be, well, if nothing else, thoroughly entertaining.

See Living Spit - Giants of Science on Friday, November 23rd at 7.30pm at Sticklepath Village Hall. Tickets from 07856 062407.

December 7

A Christmas treat!

A group of local musicians are banding together to stage a Christmas Concert in aid of the Friends of Okehampton Library on Friday, December 7th at The Ockment Centre in Okehampton, beginning at 7pm.

Among those taking part will be Uke ’n’ Play - a 20-strong ukulele group from the local area. It comprises members of all abilities who perform a range of songs old and new, including classics from Abba, The Beach Boys, Rod Steward and Elvis.

Also performing will be The Electroleles - a spin-off from Uke ’n’ Play, playing guitars, ukuleles and bass with a wide range of songs featuring vocal harmonies and the virtuoso guitar and ukulele playing of Nathan Platts. The trio is well known around the local music scene and earlier this year was a support act for The Bohemians, a Queen tribute act.

Rough Diamonds are a saxophone quartet playing in close harmony with feeling and fun! Their material ranges from traditional to modern and should put a smile on everyone’s face.

And The Briars are an acapela trio who sing everything from ballads to modern classics - Handel to Guns ’n’ Roses, including some original compositions.

Michelle, Marilyn and Morwenna blend three unique voices effortlessly to produce harmonies and music to lift the spirits.

The event promises to be an entertaining evening and a great chance to watch local musicians strutting their stuff, while supporting the Friends of Okehampton Library. Tickets on sale in early November at £5 each from the library of Friends group member David Shipway on 01837 54439. Refreshments on sale but no bar - bring your own if you wish!

November 23

Talking Heads A performance of Alan Bennett’s classic play Talking Heads will be coming to Okehampton this November, brought to the town by the Tavonians Theatre Company. The performance includes rehearsed readings of two of Alan Bennett’s muchloved dramatic monologues.

Originally written for television in the 1980s and 1990s, Alan Bennett’s six monologues have become classic pieces of performance and literature, included on the A-level and GCSE English Literature syllabuses. Although the plays deal with a variety of subjects, there are certain recurring themes such as guilt and isolation.

In A Lady of Letters, Sarah Denne plays Irene, a working class single woman who is not afraid to speak, or rather write, her mind: she writes letters to her MP, the police, the chemist – everyone she can, to remedy the social ills she sees around her. Her letters have a dramatic consequence which impacts on her life, but doesn’t change her attitudes or feelings.

In A Cream Cracker under the Settee, Pam Smith plays Doris, a woman who despite being incapacitated by a fall is trying to clear up after her considerably less thorough home help. She remains determined to stay living on her own in considerable pain rather than be shunted off to a care home ‘smelling of pee’.

See Talking Heads at Toast Coffee House in Okehampton on Friday, November 23rd at 7.30pm. Tickets £20 including interval supper. Book at Toast by November 20th by calling 01837 54494. Full details are on www.tavonians.org.uk or call 08455 196592.

47

NATIONAL TRUST

Busy times at the castle As the building project to make the castle watertight nears its end, there’s lots of work to do inside to start the redecoration, cleaning and unpacking needed to make the castle a beautiful family home once more.

Because of all this work, the castle won’t be open this winter, but now is the perfect time to blow away the winter cobwebs with a walk in the garden or Teign Gorge and then reward yourself with a treat in the Drogo café. We’re looking forward to some of our favourite events of the year over the next couple of months, including the annual 10 mile race through the Gorge in November and the arrival of Father Christmas in December.

DROGO 10 RUN

Sunday, November 18th 10.30am. A challenging 10 mile race in the beautiful Teign Gorge. For info and to register contact South West Road Runners on www.swrr.co.uk/the-drogo

FATHER CHRISTMAS COMES TO DROGO

Saturday and Sunday, December 15th,16th, 22nd & 23rd,11am4pm. Follow the trail through the garden to find Father Christmas and receive a special present. £3.50 to see Father Christmas, plus admission prices.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH IN THE CAFÉ

Wednesday, December 12th, Thursday, December 13th & Friday, December 14th, 12-2.00pm. 3 courses £25 per person (includes coffee and mince pies). Booking essential on 01647 434143.

WIND DOWN AND WARM UP

Thursday, December 27th – Wednesday, January 2nd, 11am4pm. Relax after Christmas with a walk in the beautiful Drogo garden and Teign Gorge, visit the café and indulge in some retail therapy with sale offers in the shop. Children can follow the winter trail around the grounds. Normal admission applies.

DROGO CHRISTMAS MARKET

Saturday, December 8th and Sunday, December 9th, 10am-4pm. Enjoy a leisurely shopping experience at the Castle Drogo Visitor Centre. A variety of local specialist food, crafts and unique gifts on sale. Normal admission applies

Get in thecolour festive Add some to your weekend this spirit this Christmas autumn at Gibside at Castle Drogo Father Christmas will be visiting on Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest the 15, 22and&autumn 23 December, teeming with16, wildlife colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities.

11am-4pm.

Call 01647 433306 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/castledrogo 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. © National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent charity, number 205846. © National registered charity,registered number 205846.

Photography Trust Photography © National Trust Images\Adrian Judd.

Images.

48

#nationaltrust #nationaltrust

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NATIONAL TRUST

Wildlife provides an antidote to Christmas shopping!

The walks to Whitelady Waterfall and the bird hide are open during daylight hours and are a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations. Look out for jays stocking up on acorns and of course the squirrels.

For your own tasty treat head to the tea-room - open Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-3.30pm until Christmas. There will be warming soups and paninis available as well as cream teas and cakes. During November the Waterfall Tearoom will be open; perfect for a cuppa and a catch up after a wander to the waterfall. During December the Devil’s Cauldron Tearoom will open, a chance to relax before the Christmas shopping. The shop will be open Thursday to Sunday 11am-3.30pm, with a range of traditional and contemporary Christmas food, cards, decorations and more.

Lydford Gorge is classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its geology as well as the plants and animals that call it home. Now is the time that the rangers take back most of the gorge, working to make it a great habitat for wildlife and visitors alike. Since March over 100,000 feet have walked the gorge and this takes its toll on the surfaces,

handrails, steps and bridges. The rangers work hard to maintain the safety of the paths over summer, but use the winter to do some of the bigger jobs. For example, to stop the path edges from eroding away, winches are used - powered by ranger muscle - to move large lengths of tree trunk into place.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lydfordgorge or call 01822 820320.

WINTER FAIR

Saturday, December 1st & Sunday, December 2nd, 11am-3pm.

Pick up a Dartmoor Christmas tree and do some Christmas shopping supporting local craft and food producers. Free entry to all.

Escape the crowds Add some colour to at Lydford Gorge

your weekend this daily.

Waterfall walks open autumn Gibsideopen Shop and at tea-room until Christmas, for opening Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest times please check online. teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities.

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 2018. after special places <in the region> <like ©support National The 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\Rose Cooke.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

49

NATIONAL TRUST

Christmas shopping ideas at the foundry This winter at Finch Foundry we will be open at weekends from 3 November until 23 December from 11am until 3pm, with last admission at 2.30pm.

There will be our usual talks and demonstrations of the large machinery in the forge and our resident blacksmith will be here making things while you watch.

Our tea-room will be open serving soup and hot drinks to keep out the cold, plus mince pies of course.

In our shop we have a lovely selection of National Trust goods to buy, including snuggly throws and decorative things for the home, ladies accessories, books, calendars, family games and children’s toys (ideal for stocking fillers). We also have an extensive selection of ornamental metal birds and animals, Frith bronze sculptures, plus our seasonal range which includes Christmas cards and some delicious festive food. There are plenty of ideas for gifts, or you may just want to treat yourself.

This year our St Clement’s Day event will be on Saturday, November 24th. This will feature blacksmiths from all over the country coming together to celebrate their patron saint by demonstrating their skills and competing in competitions for fun. Admission will be free on this day.

St Clement's Day at Finch Foundry, Sticklepath

Add some colour to your weekend this autumn at Gibside

Saturday 24 November 2018, 11am-4pm.

Blacksmiths from across the country will be competing in this special event. Free entry.

New for this year - we will be open at Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest weekends throughout November and up teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities. till 23 December, 11am - 3pm. nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01837 840046 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/finch-foundry When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

helps usTrust to look 2018. after special places <in the region> <like ©support National The 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\John Millar.

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FEATURE

Dartmoor Artisan Trail A creative showcase that’s sparked national accolades Something as mundane as a curtain pole may be an odd way to start a successful new venture - but that’s exactly how the Dartmoor Artisan Trail came into being.

Suzy Bennett, who is based in Moretonhampstead, was on the hunt for one such pole and ended up sourcing it from a local blacksmith. Seeing the craftsman at work and realising her home town was a hot-bed for creativity, journalist and photographer Suzy had that storyteller’s tingle there was a tale in the making.

‘Just by chatting to people I realised in a very small area there is a very, very intensive concentration of people who are doing creative things, differently. It seems like behind every door, there’s someone doing something creative and they’re not bound by the rules you might have to abide by if you are working in a city,’ said Suzy.

Inspired by photographing the traditional Victorian blacksmith’s forge, she moved on to the shoemaker, the potter, the cider maker - and the whole project gained momentum.

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‘Initially I was just going to do an exhibition but people started saying they’d like to see these people at work and the idea of a trail on Dartmoor grew from there,’ said Suzy, whose atmospheric

pictures are stunning, providing a fabulous showcase for these moorland creators.

The Dartmoor Artisan Trail links arts, crafts and food and gives visitors to the moor the opportunity to watch makers at work, take part in classes and buy products directly from their creators.

Suzy has chosen artisans that have true passion for their craft - and if they are doing something a bit different, so much the better. Who’d have thought there was a textile designer breeding silkworms on Dartmoor, for example? And felt - it has its obvious uses - think tea cosies or slippers - but did you know the only woman making felt burial shrouds in the UK is practising her craft in Moretonhampstead?

‘Everyone on the trail has something that bit different about them - and I think the fact that I am not originally from this area, that I am looking at it with a fresh viewpoint, makes a difference as well,’ Suzy said.

So how did the men and women involved in the artisan trail react to her idea?

‘They were really up for it,’ said Suzy. ‘I think they liked the idea of coming together as a creative community. These people tend to be working in little, isolated workshops and studios that are quite solitary and when we held the exhibition, I think pretty much all of them came and it was really nice to have them all in one place.’

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FEATURE

Once the Dartmoor Artisan Trail went live online, it soon became apparent that Suzy had hit on a winning formula - not only for those craftsmen and women who have become part of it, but also for the visitors to our own very special area of the British Isles.

‘I think it’s really sparked the public’s imagination,’ said Suzy. ‘I think people are starting to value traditional crafts and it’s provided a new income stream for the artisans themselves. What’s been nice is you get fathers and sons having bonding weekends, doing courses together, or mothers and daughters doing crafts.’

She also reckons Dartmoor provides the magic ingredient visitors love the spectacular scenery, the romanticism, the peace and quiet, while the moors inspire people in a way unlike any other.

‘Many people have a real connection with the land and get inspired by the wildlife we have here and I’m sure the

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wildness of Dartmoor gives people a creativity you’ll never get by being stuck in a workshop all day - I’m sure that gets reflected in their work.’

The first of its kind in the UK and in the year following its launch, the Dartmoor Artisan Trail was featured on BBC Countryfile and has been widely acclaimed in the national press, including The Guardian, Lonely Planet Magazine and The Daily Telegraph, who named it one of the UK’s best travel experiences of 2017. It was also awarded the ‘UK’s Best New Tourism Project of 2017’ by the British Guild of Travel Writers.

Having taken 18 months to set the trail up, Suzy was awarded the Heritage Crafts Association’s Marsh Volunteer of the Year award, an accolade she was pleased and proud to receive.

She’s since been asked to set up similar trails elsewhere in the UK and is currently working on an exciting new project, still under wraps.

‘I’ve loved doing it, I got a lot out of it and I also learned a lot from it - it’s been great,’ she said.

You can see the trail and more of Suzy’s beautiful pictures at www.dartmoor-artisan-trail.co.uk Jane Honey

53

DOG WALK WALKS WITH WINNIE

Walks with Winnie This walk has been kindly written (and walked) for us

by Denise Horner of Dartmoor Nordic Walking with her dog, Winnie.

www.dartmoornordicwalkng.co.uk www.pentranger.co.uk ‘Dartmoor Nordic Walking’ and ‘Walks with Winnie’ are on Facebook.

Distance - Approximately 4 k Time - Approximately 1 hr An easy mostly flat walk with several stiles and gates.

Starting point SX659902 A lovely varied, circular walk starting at Shilstone Tor, Throwleigh, taking in part of the Mariner’s Way and returning along the edge of the moors.

Park in the car park below Shilstone Tor. With the Tor behind you, take the road and walk to the right, then first left signed Throwleigh and cross over the cattle grid. As the road bends to the left, notice the lovely water feature on your right. A good first stop for drinks and a paddle for the dog.

Stay on the road passing the row of houses on your left. After the properties on your right and next to the farmer’s gate on your right, take the signed

MOORLAND

PAWS

@ Chagford

footpath that runs along the edge of the field. At the end of this path, climb over the stile, taking care if it has been raining as it can be slippery. The path follows the left hand side of this lovely open field with views to the open moors on your right. Climb over the next stile in the corner and again stay to the left of this field, following the hedge and taking note of any cows. Same again for the next field - when you reach the fourth field, head for the gate towards the centre of the hedge in front of you.

Take this gate, again staying to the left of the field and head for the farm gate.

This will take you through Aysh Farm yard, dogs need be on a lead at this point.

54

Cross the stream - a scenic spot for a picnic, the dog to drink and a paddle.

You will see the path on the opposite side which continues toward a track way and a couple of houses on the right. Stay on this track, the Mariner’s Way, through the moorland and back to the open road.

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Once through the farm, turn right onto the road. The houses here are very pretty, a lovely spot. Follow the road, cross the cattle grid and approaching Ash Green, follow the sign directing you left towards the woods and the stream, until you come to the clapper bridge.

This is now part of the Mariner’s Way - a path created by sailors linking existing pathways from Bideford to Dartmouth, taking the most direct route available.

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WALKS WITH DOG WINNIE WALK

Turn right on the road passing Ensworthy Cottage and Farm on your right hand side, with a pretty stream running alongside the road. The open moors will now be on your left with views towards Shilstone Tor and Kennon Hill. Stay on the road now all of the way back to the car.

If you would like to join us for this ‘Walk with Winnie’ meet at Shilstone Tor on Tuesday, November 20th for a 2.30pm start. To book your place visit the web site www. dartmoornordicwalking.co.uk and find the ‘Book a session’ page or phone Denise 07944 630677.

Map for guide only.

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55

FOOD & DRINK

Fantastic festive alternatives Jason Mules of Waitrose in Okehampton takes a look around the shelves Festive food takes centre stage over Christmas, and rightly so. We all love that little extra special something - but don’t forget the drinks, which are as much a part of Christmas as the pud and turkey! Here is a brief look at some alternative festive delights to tempt your taste buds!

Any Port in a storm Port is a fortified wine. Essentially this means it’s a careful blend of wine and spirit - in this case, brandy. The blending achieves two things - it makes the drink stronger (better for customers) and it makes the drink more shelf-stable (better for producers). Historically, blending was done to achieve the simplest way to export wine cheaply and safely over long distances.

It can be used more or less in the same ways as Madeira, sherry or vermouth - consumed straight, mixed in cocktails or punches, or as an ingredient in cooking when a recipe calls for a lot of flavour and a little de-glazing.

Taylor’s Late-Bottled Vintage Port (£14.99) is a rich, robust and fruity port, aged five to six years in wood prior to bottling.

Wines labelled as late bottled vintage (LBV) emulate the vintage style, but do not have sediment or crust and are ready to drink immediately.

Satisfying Sherry Sherry comes in a huge array of styles, ranging from bone-dry fino to the lusciously sweet Pedro Ximénez (also known as PX).

This underrated fortified wine pairs fantastically with food, due to its diversity of styles. Although it has seen a decline in popularity, it is back on the rise and we in the UK actually drink more sherry than the Spanish.

One thing sherry also needs is time. Even young sherries have been aged for three to four years.

Fino and manzanilla are the lightest and driest sherries, with virtually no sugar content. My advice is to treat it like a dry white wine - it’s superb with tapas, sea food and can stand up to strong flavours such as garlic and chilli.

Hidalgo La Gitana Manzanilla £10.99 is one of my all time favourites. It boasts a good balance of dryness and flavour, perfect with Christmas nuts!

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Cream sherry, like the world famous Harveys Bristol Cream, are at the sweeter end of the spectrum and the one I know Santa likes!

The pale cream variety is light-coloured and only slightly sweet, whereas the cream sherry is sweet, dark and has a very intense aroma. Cream sherry is actually made from the Oloroso variety. These are good dessert wines and work well with food like tiramisu, chocolate, crème brûlée, vanilla ice cream, strawberries, banana, citrus - and blue cheese!

Try Harveys Signature 12yo Sherry (£12.99), it’s smooth, velvety with a dried fruit warm spice finish!

Marvellous Madeira Madeira is another fortified wine, like port and sherry. It’s available in a range of dry to sweet styles and gets its name from the island of Madeira. Madeira’s unique taste comes from repeatedly heating the wine. The heating creates a wine with fascinating flavours of roasted nuts, stewed fruit, caramel, and toffee. Similar to sherry, it has the dry/sweet scale of dry wines such as Sercial and Verdelho. All are delicious as chilled aperitifs, with the sweeter wines served with dessert. However, the richest wine, Malmsey, makes an excellent after-dinner drink.

Henriques & Henriques Full Rich Madeira (£10.99) is a lush, fragrant sipping wine, packed full of dried fruits and a scrumptious caramel finish. A captivating wine that leaves you wanting more!

Waitrose & Partners at Okehampton would like to wish you and your family a very happy, peaceful Christmas!

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FOOD & DRINK

Spice up your Christmas Turkey Eversfield Organic serves up a tasty suggestion for those festive leftovers There’s no centrepiece quite like a turkey at Christmas.

That’s why we traditionally go back to it year after year, at that time where good food matters most. When cooked well, it’s a moist and flavourful bird, perfect to feed a crowd. But how to make the best of those leftovers without resorting to turkey sandwiches until the New Year?

Eversfield’s Turkey Biryani Serves 6 Ingredients 2tbs butter 2 chopped onions 3 crushed cloves of garlic 1tsp grated ginger 1tsp turmeric 1 finely chopped green chilli 1tsp ground cumin 1tsp ground coriander Salt to taste 200g chopped tomatoes 4tbsp natural yoghurt Chopped fresh coriander 4 cardamom pods 1tsp garam masala 1tsp cinnamon 800g left over turkey For the rice: 2tbsp butter, 1/4tsp ground cloves, 1tsp turmeric, 1tsp garam masala, squeeze of lime juice, 500g basmati rice, 800ml turkey or veg stock.

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Method: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a large pan over a low heat with 2 chopped onions, 3 crushed garlic cloves, 1 tsp each of grated ginger and turmeric, 1 finely chopped green chilli, 1 tsp each of ground cumin, coriander and salt, plus 200g chopped tomatoes. Cook until reduced, then add 4 tbsp natural yoghurt, fresh coriander, 4 cardamom pods, 1 tsp garam masala and cinnamon. Turn heat to high and stir often for 8 - 10 minutes, until cooked through.

When the mixture is thick and smooth, add 800g leftover turkey, shredded and stir to coat. (If you have any turkey juices left over from the roast, add some here!) Cover and cook on a low heat for 15 minutes.

In a large saucepan on high heat, add 2 tbsp of butter, ¼ tsp ground cloves, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala and a squeeze of lime. Add 500g basmati rice and fry for 4 - 5 minutes, stirring continuously. Gradually add 800ml turkey or veg stock until the rice fully cooks through. Turn to low heat and cover to steam the rice for about 10 minutes.

Add the turkey to the rice, along with 1 green pepper, chopped and stir to combine. Serve with a sprinkle of coriander, raita and fluffy flatbreads!

Why Organic?

The Soil Association Organic certification mark guarantees that your food has been produced with a conscientious desire to conserve the natural environment and its biodiversity, look after animals to the highest welfare standards, and produce a healthier, more nutritious end product.

On the Eversfield Organic Farm, we rear 100% pasture fed, organic cattle and lambs. Our Christmas turkeys are slow reared on organic pasture for a more natural lifestyle. Both our organic Bronze and Norfolk Black turkeys are grown in Devon, ask in store for more information on our farmers.

Order local, organic turkey at our new farm shop & deli at 2 West Street, Tavistock or online at eversfieldorganic.co.uk.

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HISTORY

The war to end all wars A look back on the impact of conflict, 100 years after Armistice Day The guns of the First World War fell silent on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, 1918. Even in the final hours of conflict, many casualties were reported, including that of celebrated war poet Wilfred Owen.

Around eight million men lost their lives during the four years of hostilities - some ten percent of them British - with many more suffering life-changing injuries.

But before the war had even started, military preparations were taking place throughout the country. Early in the summer of 1914, a drill hall in Okehampton was opened, built at a cost of £2,250 for the Devon Territorial Association and described as ‘one of the most commodious and best-appointed’ drill halls in the country.

The building, on the site of what is now Okehampton Conservative Club, was invaluable in developing a force that was ‘disciplined, drilled and made into efficient soldiers capable of offering efficient resistance in time of war or invasion’.

During the war, the close proximity to Okehampton of the Dartmoor military training area proved invaluable, as military strategists imitated various aspects of warfare, including advancing cavalry or infantry. With the provision of live firing, the troops must have felt a genuine sense of battlefield reality.

The influx of soldiers in the area meant many men had to be billeted with local families. One family, the Hornes, who owned a large property at the bottom of Station Road in Okehampton (Fairfeld House), managed to put up 22 soldiers.

Devon not only offered military personnel to the national war effort, it led the way in terms of the

58

number of local horses requisitioned by the authorities and subsequently transported to the battlefields of France and Flanders. Most never returned - an estimated 10 million horses were believed to have perished during the war.

Requisitioned horses were herded onto trains at Okehampton Station, ideally situated for the easy access to the town’s military camp. Countless troop and horse wagons would have passed through the town, either arriving for training or setting off en route to the Western Front.

Many rural Devon villages made extraordinary contributions to the war effort in terms of personnel, few greater than Sampford Courtenay. In 1914, Sampford had a population of barely 100 - but as many as 14 men with local connections are listed on on its war memorial. Most households lost a son, father, brother or nephew. Two brothers, William Phare, a stoker on HMS Defence and Henry Phare, serving on HMS Indefatigable, died on the the same date in May 1916 during the Battle of Jutland. By the middle of 1915, some 40 men from the village were serving including the vicar, the Rev Fouke Barnaby.

The first recorded Okehampton war fatality was Jack Friend, killed in the first Battle of Mons in September 1914, aged 21.

At this early stage of fighting, British military strategists clung to the traditional notions of warfare - Jack, a farrier by trade, died in what proved to be the last ‘lance on lance’ military action involving the 9th Lancers and the Prussian Dragoons.

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HISTORY

Using the Devon Record Offices for family history research Every county holds historical records pertaining to their area, usually in a County Record Office. These paper records are far more extensive than the records which are currently available online, and it is often worthwhile making a trip to the office to look at documents which can help you discover more about your ancestors.

While the fighting raged, life in the Okehampton area changed dramatically and by 1917, food shortages had become widespread. Women took on work on the farms and in a wide range of voluntary activities in support of their communities.

Okehampton took a lead in the National Egg Collection Scheme, in which thousands of eggs were despatched to wounded servicemen in hospitals.

Regular collections took place on Saturdays, donations rising from 384 in mid September 1915 to 522 in early June 1916.

Perhaps the most useful item collected in Okehampton and on Dartmoor was sphagnum moss, which had remarkable qualities in keeping wounds dry when used under bandages. Up to 40 volunteers dried the moss at a special centre at Princetown before packing it for the front. In an age before antibiotics, its use in surgical dressings was vital and by the middle of 1918, more than a million bags of moss were prepared each month across the UK. With the cessation of hostilities on November 11th, 1918, the continuous ringing of church bells and impromptu announcements of services of

thanksgiving were the first indications to many that the war was, indeed, finally over.

A special ‘peace committee’ in Okehampton organised celebration day on Saturday, July 19th which strived to strike the right balance between commemoration and celebration. It included a remembrance service, sports events for children and adults, dancing, lunch and tea.

On November 2nd, 1919, a service was held at All Saints’ Church, after which a memorial cross was unveiled by the Archdeacon of Totnes.

The final verse of one of the hymns chosen for the service read: ‘O valiant hearts, who to your glory came through dust of conflict and through battle-flame; Tranquil you lie, your knightly virtue proved, Your memory hallowed in the Land you loved.’

Jane Honey Collated from ‘Okehampton and District’s Great War’ by Okehampton and District Local History Society, edited by Alan F Parkinson

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Historical records for Devon are to be found at the Devon Heritage Centre in Exeter, and also at the North Devon Record Office in Barnstaple and at the Plymouth and West Devon Record Office. In this article I will talk about the Exeter centre, which is located at Great Moor House, Bittern Road, Exeter EX2 7 NL. They are open from 10am to 5pm but closed on Mondays. You will need to take ID so that they can issue you with a readers’ card. It is a good idea to check on their website or phone them on 01392 888700 to find out whether they hold the kinds of records you are looking for.

The Devon Heritage Centre generally holds collections which relate to the whole county, including the Diocesan records, county Quarter Sessions and county council collections. This includes estate and family collections, and solicitors’ collections which cover more than one area of Devon. Most of these records are not filmed or digitised, and are only available in their original format. The centre also holds non-conformist registers, Bishops’ Transcripts and tithe maps and apportionments. Plus electoral registers, land tax assessments and the Inland Revenue wills series.

The West Country Studies Library, which contains the county collection of local history material is also available at the Devon Heritage Centre. It includes published books, manuscript volumes, pamphlets, journals, maps, prints, engravings, photographs, newspapers and various files relating to local parish and family history.

Susan Francia, Family History Research Services 01822 820855 fhistoryresearch@gmail.com www.family-historyresearch.co.uk

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TRADE SECRETS

Edward Baily DISTILLER Where are you based and how long have you been in business?

We are based in Okehampton, just off the northern tip of Dartmoor National Park. We registered the company in 2015 but didn’t get trading until November 2016 due to a bottle manufacturing error.

What made you decide to start distilling vodka?

The idea first came from watching a program of whisky production. Not wanting to have to wait three years for the whisky to mature and to be legally called whisky, we decided to go down the vodka route. This is also my drink of choice which made even more sense. No distillation takes place at HQ, we work closely with a distillery for that part. We intend to go from field to bottle within the next few years after we have secured the funds to do so.

What sort of experience or training do you need to make vodka?

All you really need is the want to do it. It took us four years to get to the point where we were ready to register the company and a further year to start trading. You also must have the need, the want and desire to create a quality product. There is no hiding with vodka. If the taste profile isn’t there, your product will fail at the first hurdle.

What is your vodka made from?

Our vodka is made from a mash made with British Soft Winter Wheat. It is distilled to produce alcohol and then blended with Dartmoor Spring water. It is then charcoal filtered for up to three months before final filtration and bottling.

How long does it take to make a bottle of vodka, from start to finish?

It takes in between two and three months per batch. The batch size ranges from 200 to 300 bottles at a time.

How does your day usually unfold?

We both work full time so TORS is created and run evenings and weekends. Evenings usually start with answering emails and the rest of the night is spent cleaning, then product product creation before another clean. Weekends are spent at shows and events up and down the country.

What is the best thing about your job?

Without fail, people’s reactions to our product. Vodka can tend to have a bad reputation as people have usually had a bad experience with a lesser product in years gone by. We are on a mission to change their opinion and manage that on a regular basis. Our vodka is a product that can be drunk on its own over some ice. A testament to its quality.

What is the most challenging aspect of your work?

Time! As the business is run in our spare time keeping up with growing demand is a bit tricky but worth every sacrifice.

What would you say to anyone thinking of starting a business like yours?

Make sure you have a love for your product and prepare yourself for lots of late nights and lots of setbacks.

Tors Vodka of Okehampton

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TAVISTOCK

BATHROOMS & TILES By amanda - james

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