Plym Links April/May 2021 by Links Magazines

PLYM LINKS April/May 2021 | Issue 9

COM UN

ITY

BUS I NESS

BUY LOCAL & SAVE JOBS

NATURE

LOVELY LICHENS

- THE SIGN OF CLEAN AIR

HISTORY

THE GHOSTS OF DENDLES WOOD

the locals

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A vet from Glenholt Farmers from Roborough

YEARS

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Introducing John Widdicombe Shaugh Prior’s new Lengthsman

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Modern Slavery

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IT’S OUR BIRTHDAY!

The deadline date for any inclusions in the June/July issue of Plym Links will be April 30th, 2021 For all editorial enquiries please contact me via email at: jane.honey@linksmagazines.co.uk or by phone 07971 917071. THE LINKS TEAM: Publisher: Tim Randell Editor: Jane Honey Design: Julian Rees Advertising: Jane Daniel, Olivia Breyley, Joanne Mallard

To promote your business to 16,100 readers call: ✆ 07450 161929 ON THE COVER: The Tides Are Changing © Alli Cragg See page 39

This winter and spring has seemed like a procession of milestones - some uplifting, like the success of the coronavirus vaccination campaign - others not so good. Who’d have thought a year ago we’d be where we are now? For the Links magazines, 2021 is a big milestone - our tenth birthday! The first issue of Moor Links, which covers the Yelverton area, was published by Lizzie Watt in 2011. Such was the success of this community magazine that the series has expanded to include Tavy, Oke and now Plym Links too - evolving as the years have gone by but retaining the essential concept of a local publication for local people. As I write, in early March, news is slightly better regarding the pandemic and we now have a ‘roadmap’ to follow towards better times. But spare a thought for those who can see no way out of their current situation. Our feature concerns modern slavery and while this might seem a remote problem for us here in rural Devon, writer Geri Parlby puts the spotlight on an issue that could exist right under our noses. The subject of this edition’s Charity Focus is Gables Dogs and Cats Home in Plymouth, which has been rescuing and re-homing animals for more than 100 years. The dedicated staff and volunteers care for hundreds of dogs and cats that come into the centre through no fault of their own and have faced particular financial

Contents | April & May 2021 5 Feature 8 Local People 12 Noticeboard 22 Education 24 Nature 26 Charity Focus 28 Gardening 33 Health

✆ 07450 161929

35 Food and Drink 36 What’s On 38 Music & Art 42 Walk 44 History 46 Technical Help 47 Directory 50 Trade Secrets

FROM THE EDITOR difficulties this year thanks to the pandemic. Animals are also close to the hearts of local people Duncan MacWhirter and Jon and Stacey Eggins. Duncan is the owner of Roborough Vet practice and has cared for creatures great and small both here and in his native South Africa, while the Eggins family has farmed and raised animals in Roborough since the late 1800s. There are a couple of mysteries in this issue of Plym Links. Ron Smith describes a Dartmoor walk where you can view the isolated Stephen’s Grave - what were the circumstances led to Stephen’s final resting place? And Paul Rendell describes the ghostly goings-on in Dendles Wood, on the southern flanks of the moor. I hope you enjoy reading the latest issue of Plym Links - if you have any ideas for features, if you’d like to contribute an article and if you know of local projects that could do with some publicity, please do get in touch. And, dare I say it, if you are organising events this summer - let me know and I’d be very happy to include them!

Jane

Jane Honey Editor, Plym Links

✆ 07971 917071 jane.honey@linksmagazines.co.uk

² @plymlinks

Delivered by the Royal Mail to the following towns & villages: Roborough, Woolwell, Widewell, Shaugh Prior, Bickleigh, Wotter, Lee Moor, Sparkwell, Glenholt, Derriford, Derriford Hospital, The Plymouth Science Park and selected outlets.

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MODERN SLAVERY

FEATURE

It’s there, now, on our doorsteps

According to the Global “Slavery Index it is thought

there are up to 136,000 victims of modern slavery in the UK.

”

t’s easy to think that slavery is a thing of the past but sadly, nothing could be further from the truth. Centuries after slavery was officially abolished, thousands of people are still being exploited and sold as slaves from Asia to Australia and Europe to the Americas. Even here in the UK right on our own doorsteps. In fact, without realising, you probably see people trapped in slavery on a regular basis. It might be someone working in a private home on your street, the man working in the car wash in town, or the cleaner who empties your office bin every night. It can be difficult to spot the signs. Modern slavery in the UK can take many forms, including forced sexual exploitation, domestic slavery or forced labour on farms, in construction, shops, bars, nail bars, car washes or manufacturing. The number of people identified as victims of modern slavery has been rising year on year. According to the Global Slavery Index it is thought there are up to 136,000 victims of modern slavery in the UK. So how do people get trapped in slavery? According to the world’s oldest international human rights organisation, British based Anti-Slavery Please mention PLYM LINKS when responding to adverts

International, vulnerable people often take big risks in order to provide for their families. Typically, they can be offered an apparently good job in the UK. Often they take a loan from the traffickers in advance. However, when they arrive in the UK, the situation is completely different. Their passport might be taken away and they’re told they need to pay off the debt before they can leave. Violence and threats are common. They are trapped here with no possessions, no means to return and totally reliant on their traffickers. Vulnerable British people are also targeted, especially children from disadvantaged backgrounds, to be groomed into drug criminal gangs in so-called ‘county lines’ trafficking. A prime example of how slavery can exist in plain sight is the case of the Rooney family, who ran a slave ring right under the noses of a UK town in Lincolnshire. By taking advantage of vulnerable populations such as the homeless, the elderly, and the mentally ill, the Rooney family slave ring managed to run under the radar for over two decades, netting the family a huge profit while sending their victims through unspeakable injustices. In Visit our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk 5

all, eleven Rooney family members ended up in prison. These horrific crimes have even inspired recent episodes of Radio 4’s The Archers, which has helped to raise awareness of the evil pervasiveness of modern slavery. A challenging crime to investigate For the police, modern slavery and human trafficking is a tough nut to crack. The complexity of cases, the variety of crimes, the multi-national and multi-ethnic background of participants, the multiple occurrences of abuse, the different forms of deception and coercion used to control victims and the way offences are interwoven with other forms of criminality, sets modern slavery apart. This led to the Modern Slavery Police Transformation Programme being set up in 2017 to help support and train the police in how best to tackle this problem and share intelligence both regionally and nationally. In fact, Devon & Cornwall’s Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer is the police lead for the Modern Slavery and Organised Immigration Crime Unit, based in Exmouth. Last year, they unveiled new figures showing that despite Covid, investigations into modern slavery-related offences were at their highest ever level. More than 2,000 cases were live in September alone. Chief Constable Sawyer said: ‘Modern slavery and 6

trafficking are cruel crimes that see perpetrators target some of the most vulnerable people in our society. ‘Perpetrators range from international and national serious and organised crime networks, through to single individual exploitative relationships. This is arguably the most pernicious crime type of our generation.’ Throughout the UK, many different organisations are working alongside Anti-Slavery International to prevent slavery, promote identification of victims, provide support services to survivors, and ensure that slavery cannot flourish. The Salvation Army has its own anti-trafficking and modern slavery unit providing specialist support to all adult victims of modern slavery in England and Wales via safehouses or through outreach support. ECPAT UK is a leading children’s rights organisation working to protect children from trafficking and slavery. Bristolbased Unseen provides safe houses and community outreach, as well as running the modern slavery and exploitation helpline, ✆ 08000 121 700. Hope for Justice works in the UK and internationally, helping to rescue trafficking victims, assist in aftercare, hold traffickers accountable, and campaign on a wider level to improve awareness and legislation. The Rotary Action Group Against Slavery has been

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FEATURE Simon John’s three-week cycle ride to raise awareness of modern slavery takes place on May 21st. To donate to this worthy cause go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/freedomride2021

human trafficking and modern slavery. The ride is a homage to abolitionist Thomas Clarkson, who in 1791 rode on horseback to towns across Britain, raising awareness of the horrors and suffering in the transatlantic slave trade and, raising support for the 19th century antislavery campaign. Little did Clarkson realise that 230 years later, the horror of slavery would still be with us. n Geri Parlby Rotary Club of Tavistock - Rotary Action Group Against Modern Slavery

More information: Please visit antislavery.org; salvationarmy.org.uk/modernslavery; ecpat.org.uk; unseenuk.org; hopeforjustice.org; ragas.online

working both internationally and in the UK, helping to raise awareness in the community and fund anti-slavery charities while working alongside them to protect the vulnerable from slavery and its consequences. Working with Anti-Slavery International, the Chair of RAGAS, 75-year-old Rotarian Simon John, is embarking on a 1,000-mile Freedom Ride, a speaking/cycling tour from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise awareness of

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Duncan MacWhirter A vet with a soft spot for cats

lephants and lions aren’t exactly the type of companion animals South African vet Duncan MacWhirter meets in Roborough - though he treats big cats at nearby Dartmoor Zoo. As a vet Duncan is obviously animal-orientated, but he does have a soft spot for felines. ‘Big cats, small cats, I’ve been lucky enough to deal with all different sorts, from the biggest lions and tigers to little jungle cats,’ said Duncan. Duncan’s first degree was in entomology - it took some ten years at university before he finally qualified as a vet. He established several successful veterinary hospitals in South Africa before selling them to buy a farm on the borders of Zimbabwe and Botswana, within the Mapungubwe National Park. But challenging circumstances forced he and wife Hazel to move to the UK in 2002. A year later the couple settled in Devon with their three children, when Duncan established his Roborough veterinary base. Duncan knew the South West as his mum was Cornish and brought up at St Austell.

Big cats, small cats, I’ve been lucky “enough to deal with all different sorts, from the biggest lions and tigers to little jungle cats

”

Their boys were home-schooled by Hazel in a purposebuilt room at their house in Glenholt. It was a ‘massive commitment’, but Duncan was fulsome in his praise of Hazel’s achievements. ‘She’s an amazing person. It’s not without its negatives but there’s a lot to be said for home schooling. Funny enough, I had my first child at exactly the same age as my Dad had me. I think as older parents you have a better grasp of life. I was I was a bit of a hooligan when I was young.’ The family still retains the 1,000 hectare property in South Africa. Until the coronavirus pandemic struck, they would return to the farm, where they host safari visitors, for six to eight weeks every winter. For the moment, they’re forced to keep an eye from afar via video link, a local manager running the operation. ‘I had my place designated a Natural Heritage site Mandela signed the document,’ said Duncan. ‘It’s a very special place, the topography is very impressive, we have fantastic San rock art, all sorts of artefacts and dinosaur fossils. We’re having fantastic rain out there at the moment - it’s usually very dry but literally within three days, everything’s gone velvet green, it’s amazing.’ Large herds of elephants regularly pass through their land - an animal for which Duncan has much respect, though he’s not so keen on the destruction they can cause. ‘They’re extremely intelligent, much more so than we give them credit for,’ he said, remembering a certain male elephant that used to follow him around on the farm. On one particular day Duncan had woken up from a snooze to find the elephant in the garden, just a few metres away. Shocked, he stood up and shouted at the huge male: ‘He went off and I never saw him again - I think he was quite insulted that I had behaved like that!’ Elephants have tremendously strong familial bonds Duncan explained herds could be badly affected if any of their members fell prey to poaching - an ongoing problem for which there is no easy answer.

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LOCAL PEOPLE ‘Poaching is part of Africa,’ he said. ‘When you have 95% of the people with hardly any income or prospects, it’s part of the equation. Poverty is the founding principle of all the ills of Africa - spend a week there and you’d understand.’ Duncan acknowledged that poaching for food was bad enough, but when money was involved it became an even more hideous problem. ‘We had a black rhino shot on our farm. When you can sell a horn for ten years’ salary you can see why it happens but it’s not going to bring the rhino back,’ he said sadly. While in the UK, Duncan works six days a week, leaving little down time. When on the farm, he’s often to be found in his workshop or making running repairs on the land. A licensed scuba diver, he’s also a Second Dan in Tae Kwondo and a qualified helicopter pilot. At 68, he’s not ready to retire - but suspects it will be England where he and Hazel stay. ‘I certainly wouldn’t live in South Africa full time,’ he said. ‘England is a great place to live - apart from the crappy weather - and I just love the history here. ‘My mum never really embraced Africa - my parents moved there in 1933 but she always hankered after the green hills - the dryness of Africa never gripped her, but

my roots are there - when the dust of Africa is in your bones, you can’t help it.’ n Jane Honey

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Jon & Stacey Farmers with Eggins green fingers... L

ife at Leigh Farm near Roborough is not likely to ever be quiet - in addition to the 150 cattle there are ‘a houseful of children and dogs’ plus an alpaca called Fudge, chickens, three horses and a tiny Shetland pony, Mr B. Jon Eggins’ family has run the farm, part of Maristow Estate, since 1875 - Jon and wife Stacey took over the business from his Dad in 2009. Jon said: ‘My parents did everything to make me do something else, knowing farming is a difficult job. I went off and became a teacher and tried other things, but I always say to my Dad I wish I’d followed my heart in the first place and gone to agricultural college. ‘I’ve always loved the farm, I’ve always loved the animals and time on the tractor - I think with farming it’s either in you or it’s not.’ Jon and Stacey, who are 41 and 42, met when they were both at school. Their eldest daughter is now at university and the second has started an apprenticeship - when we spoke via Zoom, Stacey was juggling her work as a chiropractic assistant with helping Jon and home schooling the three youngest children. Thankfully the six puppies born over Christmas have all gone to new homes! Not usually to be found on a Dartmoor farm, the alpacas - three originally - arrived by way of a mistake

said John: ‘We went to market to buy ducks and came back with alpacas but no ducks!’ Fudge is now the only one left. ‘He’s an old man now,’ said Stacey. ‘When we had the three of them it was brilliant, they were so much fun, they’re the funniest creatures!’ Jon, proud owner of an alpaca jumper knitted by his mum, said he was particularly keen on their ability to stay put: ‘With every other animal on the farm, if you leave a gate open for five minutes, they’ll find it and they’ll be gone - you could leave a gate open for a week and the alpacas would still be in the same place!’ Leigh Farm’s main business is their prize-winning burgers, using their own beef, fed solely on forage and cereal grown on the farm. They are frequently judged top-notch by Taste of the West judges. Jon said: ‘I suppose I make 3-4,000 burgers a week, selling mostly to restaurants and cafés around the South West, though we have sold all around the country into the catering trade.’ Jon and Stacey used to run a farm shop, initially from Roborough Village Hall and later from the farm, but they discontinued the venture following several break-ins. Stacey said: ‘The second time it was awful, they stole

I’ve always loved the farm, I’ve always loved the “ animals and time on the tractor - I think with farming it’s either in you or it’s not ” 10

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LOCAL PEOPLE the butchery knives so the police were involved, and they broke everything, they smashed every single egg, the chicken carcasses were smashed, it was just carnage and we thought enough is enough.’ John said: ‘At the moment the business we operate works very well with being a farmer. I know when I am busy on the farm I can dedicate my time solely to being a farmer and when I have down time on the farm I make burgers!’ Last year, during the first lockdown, Jon proved he also has green fingers, after making use of a polytunnel he’d swapped for a meat box. From chillies to courgettes, everything he grew in their ‘market garden’ was a success - he reckons thanks to an abundance of marvellous manure! Now, this enterprising couple have a new venture up their collective sleeves - a DIY, build your own gourmet burger meal for two which they will sell via a specially designed website - so look out for the ‘gurt burger’, complete with relishes from the market garden . . . As Stacey and Jon agree, modern day farming has many challenges, not all of which are readily understood, the process between farm and fork not always appreciated. ‘For most people if they’ve had a bad day it’s something to do with the boss - if I’ve had a bad day,

something has died,’ said Jon. ‘Our animals live very high welfare lives, they spend as much time as possible out grazing, we don’t want them in the sheds, we want them outside living their best lives - a happy animal looks after its farmer the same way the farmer looks after them.’ Stacey added: ‘It’s a hard way of life but the rewards are amazing - our children are growing up in an amazing place and we have a lovely lifestyle - when things are going well!’ n Jane Honey

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Neighbourhood Watch returns to Glenholt Glenholt has recently seen the welcome return of the biggest crime prevention organisation in the UK. Glenholt used to have a Neighbourhood Watch scheme although it became inactive years ago. New signs are due to replace the old ones which can still be seen on streets in the area. The new NW scheme started on November 24th last year and is being pioneered by David Couch, a resident of Glenholt for 13 years - a former area manager for the Co-operative Food Group, former Special Constable, traffic officer and enforcement officer at Plymouth City Council. Glenholt Community Neighbourhood Watch (GCNW) covers a large catchment area, from Glenholt Park to the Park and Ride at Roborough and the Eco village further north. David said: ‘Due to Covid 19 we have not been able to reach the wider community - we have launched a Facebook page which gives full details of the aims of our group, the streets we cover and more importantly, alerts issued by the Police, Action Fraud, Trading Standards and more, updated daily. ‘In three months, we have 102 registered members on Facebook with the potential for many more. ‘You can take an active part in your community, make Glenholt a better place to live, free of crime and antisocial behaviour, by joining us via our Facebook page Glenholt Community Neighbourhood Watch or by emailing glenholtneighbourhoodwatch@outlook.com’ Glenholt Community Larder is a new community project run by volunteers, in partnership with St Anne’s Church, Glenholt, supplying free surplus fresh food and more since January 30th this year. We provide help to anyone living in Glenholt or any of the surrounding PL6 areas who is struggling or in need of a helping hand; we are easily accessible as no referral is needed or personal details required. We do encourage people who wish to help prevent perfectly good food going to landfill to support us as well, but ask that you come a little later during our session. This helps us share more widely and reduce queuing. Please mention PLYM LINKS when responding to adverts

NOTICEBOARD Normally we will have a good selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, salad items, bread, pastries, cakes, toiletries, store cupboard items, some treats and the odd surprise item; although this depends on what surplus is available to us the night before. Just bring a bag, no appointment necessary, follow our COVID guidelines, wear a face mask, hand sanitise on the way in and help yourself to the items available. A family member, friend, neighbour or carer is welcome to collect on your behalf as we do not deliver. Find us at St Anne’s Church every Wednesday and Saturday, 11am-12:30pm. You are welcome to visit us on both days - we look forward to meeting you. For more information call ✆ 07422 590242, email: glenholtcommunitylarder@gmail.com or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Karen Woods Manager, Glenholt Community Larder

Spotting coronavirus scams Local advice charity Citizens Advice South Hams is reporting a saddening increase in scams across the region since the beginning of the pandemic. Chief Officer Janie Moor says: ‘Common scams we’re seeing are about bogus testing kits, coronavirus vaccinations and government refunds or fines. ‘You should watch out for messages about coronavirus from unusual email addresses or phone numbers, and shouldn’t click on any links. Be aware that you won’t be asked to pay for coronavirus vaccinations – they are provided for free by the NHS.’ General warning signs to look out for: • You suspect you’re not dealing with a real company – for example, if there’s no postal address • You’ve been asked to transfer money quickly or to pay in an unusual way – for example, by iTunes vouchers or through a transfer service like MoneyGram or Western Union • You’ve been asked to give away personal information like passwords or PINs For help with online scams, contact a Citizens Advice Scams Action adviser by calling ✆ 0808 250 5050. To report a scam to Action Fraud, call ✆ 0300 123 2040 or visit their website www.actionfraud.police.uk Visit our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk 13

New bus shelter at Wotter People living in the Dartmoor village of Wotter have somewhere to stay dry while waiting for the bus once again, after Shaugh Prior Parish Council funded a replacement shelter for the village. The old bus shelter on the main road through the village had to be demolished after years of moorland weather took its toll and the structure was no longer fit for purpose. Nick Wassell, chairman of the parish council, said: ‘Some of the most vulnerable people in our community rely on the local bus service, so ensuring they have somewhere safe and dry to wait for the bus is really important. ‘We’re delighted to have been able to fund the replacement

Could you support local democracy? Planning for the next elections, scheduled to take place on May 6th, is well and truly underway. Local people are invited to sign up now to fill a number of essential paid roles at polling centres across the district. Polling stations are located in towns and parishes across the South Hams and need to be staffed by a team of polling clerks and presiding officers. To sign up as a poll clerk you don’t need any previous experience as full training is provided. The role of presiding officer requires previous experience of polling duties and training will also be provided. The cost of training is fully covered and

Devon

2019/2020 SILVER

bus shelter, using a local contractor to carry out the work. ‘The finishing touch will be to install a gate to keep livestock out, and we hope the new bus shelter will do a great job for many years to come.’ The replacement bus shelter project was completed with help from a substantial Devon County Council Locality Fund Grant, courtesy of Cllr John Hart. Local school children Robyn Best and Lara Pearce at Wotter’s new bus shelter.

participants in the training are paid to attend. There are also counting assistant roles on May 6th in the evening and on May 7th and 10th in the daytime, where no experience is necessary. At the moment, the plan is for these vital elections to go ahead whilst following strict COVID-safe guidelines. Anyone working in the polling stations or at the counting stations can be reassured that their safety, and the safety of the public, will be a priority. Team members are needed for elections taking place for the District, Town and Parish Council by-elections, Devon County Council elections and the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner election, which was postponed from May 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. To apply for a role you must not be politically active, should be over 18 years old and able to travel to a polling station or count venue. If you’re interested in joining the team, please head to www.southhams.gov.uk/elections-recruitment

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Return of the Parish Lengthsman A job dating back to Tudor times is being revived in the parish of Shaugh Prior to improve the upkeep of drains and ditches and monitor local roads. For centuries, communities all over Devon used lengthsmen to maintain highways by ‘walking the length of the parish’, but from the 1900s onwards the role began to die out, largely due to changes in

NOTICEBOARD local government. However, the traditional job is making a comeback in Shaugh Prior thanks to the parish council’s decision to employ a freelance lengthsman, John Widdicombe, to respond to localised issues. John, a fully-training lengthsman, who already performs the role for six other parishes in the South Hams, will work across the communities of Lee Moor, Wotter and Shaugh Prior on a contract basis. ‘I absolutely love being a lengthsman because what I do helps so many people – everyone benefits,’ said John. ‘Just think of the disruption caused to the community when a local road floods due to a blocked drain or a nasty pothole appears. Now, I’ll now be on call to deal with problems and carry out regular maintenance and checks to help prevent issues in the future.’

Can you help? Parishioners living in the Shaugh Prior, Lee Moor and Wotter areas are being asked to keep an eye out following incidents involving off-road bikers - and to alert police if they witness such illegal activity. The bikers, especially at this time of year, disturb ground nesting birds and destroy their habitat. Their activities damage the grazing moorland, leaving tracks and deep grooves of mud which take a long time to heal over and recover. The loud noise made by the bikes have been frightening the sheep off their grazing and sends them running. Around now, many are in-lamb and could abort. The illegal activity of off-road biking on the commons destroys the nature of the national park landscape. Police say there have been four recent prosecutions

under the S34 Road Traffic Act, all involving people riding off-road bikes in the Shaugh/Wotter and Lee Moor areas. And as a result of pictures of other bikes or vehicles such as vans connected with such activities, Ivybridge police officers have visited registered keeper addresses in the Plymouth area issuing warning and advice. Under current Covid laws, it is not permitted to travel to ride a bike either. Police would also like to hear from anyone with information regarding deer poaching in the area. Three roe deer have been discovered killed and skinned; the remains being left at Lee Moor - it is believed dogs were used to bring the deer down. Call Crimestoppers anonymously on ✆ 0800 783 0137 if you can help.

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It’s rare to find a gift both you and the recipient feel good about, but by buying the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust’s Gorse Package, you can support an important cause while bringing happiness to someone close to your heart. The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT) protects the future of true Dartmoor ponies in their natural, native environment. It carries out important conservation projects within 450 hectares it manages at Bellever, an area very popular with visitors, where a herd of 26 ponies play a crucial role in habitat maintenance and management through conservation grazing. However, lockdown has seriously impacted the charity’s usual revenue streams. Its equine assisted learning programme at Parke, Bovey Tracey, using Dartmoor ponies, normally provides educational opportunities for children with special needs and is an important resource, while its Ponies Inspiring People provides a programme for individuals, families and community groups. Both came to a halt at the start of the pandemic last year. Its free guided walks for groups at Bellever have also stopped at the moment. The DPHT’s Gorse Package is proving popular with those who love Dartmoor, as not only does it help to support the future of true Dartmoor ponies, but it gives members unique access to the charity, including a free walk and talk, e-newsletters, a half day photography workshop with international photographer Malcolm Snelgrove and an invite

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How you can help the ponies...

to the annual ‘meet the pony keepers’ day’ - all for just £75. Charity founder Dru Butterfield said: ‘We’re driven by conservation and education and support from the public will help us protect the future of Dartmoor ponies and continue our conservation work at Bellever where we aim to inspire people to connect with Dartmoor’s wildlife, landscape and heritage. ‘The Dartmoor pony is the keystone species, both in terms of the work we carry out here and in helping to encourage visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. The pony is recognised for its conservation benefits, which have a cascade effect. ‘Without the trampling and the nibbling, you wouldn’t get the dung that produces the dung beetle and other insects that attract so many rare bird species to the site. But ultimately, aside from giving the pony a viable role for conservation, we really don’t want to lose the iconic Dartmoors on Dartmoor. ‘I am worried for their future and it’s vital that people understand that unless we can continue protecting and promoting, the day of true native ponies on Dartmoor could be numbered.’ To purchase a Gorse Package please visit www.dpht.co.uk/gorse-membership

NOTICEBOARD

Looking for landing sites... New off-road path network Devon Air Ambulance (DAA) has recently revealed its mission statistics for 2020, showing how vital its service is to the people of Devon, even during a pandemic and continuing lockdown periods. Throughout the year the charity was tasked to attend more than 1,500 incidents across Devon and were, on many occasions, also called to assist in neighbouring counties. Of those missions, 590 were to help patients with medical emergencies (those suffering with a medical condition) and 912 trauma-related incidents (accidents and injuries caused by slips, trips, falls, burns and collisions). Crews assisted 607 male and 261 female patients, plus 68 children who also needed their expert care. Night landing sites have also proved invaluable - 207 missions took place during the hours of darkness. The charity now has over 160 landing sites in Devon providing a safe place to land away from unseen obstacles, enabling the pilot to bring a life-saving service into the heart of those communities up until 2am. A community landing site, is developed and partfunded by the local community, and could be located on a green, field, sports pitch or playing field. DAA is always keen to hear from any local communities who are interested in finding out more about them and you can contact Toby Russell, DAA’s Community Landing Site Officer at t.russell@daat.org.

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Work has started on a new, 5.6km off-road path network within the Bircham, Forder and Seaton Valleys. It will start in the green space between Tailyour Road and Hunter Close in Crownhill and finish at Forder Valley Road, near the entrance of Poole Farm, giving access to the nearby Forder and Bircham Valley Local Nature Reserves and previously inaccessible greenspace along the Seaton valley. The scheme is funded by the Transforming Cities Fund and is part of the wider Derriford Community Park project, which will see 147 hectares of wooded valleys, wildflower meadows and rivers around Poole Farm opened to the public. Cllr Mark Coker, Plymouth council cabinet member for strategic transport and infrastructure, said: ‘This is a fantastic scheme because it finally gives the people who have lived next to or near this wonderful green strip access to it for the first time. ‘It also makes a cycling commute from Forder Valley to Crownhill safer and more easily accessible and compliments the overall strategy of the Forder Valley Link Road.’ The scheme will provide a high-quality surfaced route while preserving the woodland character and trees, ensuring the route follows existing openings and gaps in the foliage. Despite this, 43 trees – generally those in poor health - will be removed, although trees of highest environmental value will be retained. In mitigation, more trees will be planted than were lost and habitat improvements will be added. All footpaths in the area will remain open during construction, which should be complete by September. Visit our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk 17

Nature’s own rock garden

New memorial to slavery victims

The whole of the Devils Point Park at the end of Durnford Street in Plymouth could be regarded as a natural rock garden. Being made of limestone it harbours a remarkably large number of species; I have

A memorial dedicated to the many victims of the slave trade has been installed in the Plymouth Hoe Peace Garden. The memorial, mounted on a limestone plinth, features a plaque commemorating the many lives lost to the slave trade and pays tribute to the work of Plymouth residents who campaigned tirelessly to end slavery. It was unveiled on March 25th to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Cllr Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: ‘It is so important we recognise the role that Plymouth played in the Slave Trade and the devastation this caused to lives and communities all over the world. ‘Although slavery was abolished over 200 years ago, the trauma of these atrocities - the legacy of racism and discrimination - can still be felt today. ‘As a city, we must not try to hide from our past. We must raise awareness of the horrors of this cruel trade and the people and communities it affected.’ An image of the British slave ship Brookes, designed by Plymouth MP and artist William Elford, adorns the plaque. This image was first published in a pamphlet by the Plymouth chapter of the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade and became one of the most important symbols of the national abolitionist campaign. This story and Plymouth’s contribution to this history can be explored in more detail at The Box and its 100 Journeys gallery.

Tree Mallow and inset (top) Valerian, (below) Rock Spurrey

managed to photograph no less than one hundred different ones in these few acres. There is a cliff at the very end above the fishing platform that looks out over the deep water channel between Devils Point and Mount Edgcumbe that offers a spectacular background view for a range of wild flowers as well as examples of garden species such as wallflower, alyssum and antirrhinum growing wild. Perhaps the most stunning of all plants growing there is Tree Mallow. The very earliest of the umbelliferae (umbrella like flowers) is Alexanders, seen on the left as you walk into the park at the side of the car park. It is worth specifically mentioning one rather unspectacular plant that grows further along, just past the noticeboard that advertises a few of the species. This is Field Eryngo, properly a native of the Mediterranean, but growing here and in one other place only in Britain, namely Challaborough. There are a few other less spectacular flowering plants in the area. Do try to find them somewhere as enjoy your walk around. I am sure you will notice many others at various seasons of the year, but please do not pick any, just leave them for the next person to enjoy. Ron Smith 18

Detail of the slave ship Brookes

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Consultation via video Thousands of patients at Derriford Hospital have used video consultations for healthcare appointments instead of having to attend in person - and rate their experience very highly. Since the new scheme was launched in March 2020, 10,000 consultations have taken place. Having a video appointment also means some patients did not need to travel for over an hour to see their consultant, or pay for parking at the hospital. Patients have also found it more relaxing to be able to talk to healthcare practitioners with a cup of tea in hand. Video consultations also allow partners or a family member to be with them during the consultation, which currently is not permitted in face-to-face appointments

Adopt with pride LGBT+ people across the South West are being urged to explore adoption as a potential parenting route as a part of a new national campaign. Families for Children, based in Devon, ran a hugely successful campaign last year in encouraging LGBT+ people to come forward to adopt. Ruth Marriott, Families for Children CEO, said: ‘Being part of the LGBT+ community is not a barrier to being considered as an adopter. Families for Children welcome all potential adopters, regardless of sexual orientation or marital status. We know many people from the LGBT+

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NOTICEBOARD during the pandemic, to reduce footfall into the hospital. Simon Cowls, oncology patient said: ‘Meeting with your consultant in your own home is psychologically better. And there is flexibility - if I got an appointment at say three o’clock, I’m not having to write off huge chunks of the day to travel, to park. You can literally, 10 minutes before, come into the lounge and get set up.’ Patients’ willingness to use remote consultations as a regular part of their healthcare in the future is also high. Mathew Swabey, project lead for video consultations. said: ‘This uptake demonstrates the use of technology at its best; allowing those in most need to access their health care, without having to travel and increase footfall in the hospital during times where social distancing is paramount.’ University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust patients can request video consultations by phoning the number on their appointment letter.

community, as a result of their own experiences, possess key skills like patience, resilience and strength, which help you understand and parent the children waiting for adopted families.’ Joe and Reece adopted a sibling group of three through Families for Children. Joe said: ‘Adoption for us has been a life changing experience. We do know as we get older there will be different challenges that will come up and certain situations, but the main thing is we have the support from our adoption agency, our families and friends and other adoptive families. You know you’re not alone and that’s the fundamental thing for us, especially adopting a sibling group.’ Families for Children is the alternative to regional adoption agencies and local authorities across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset. A warm welcome awaits those considering adoption from a team of experienced social workers and family support workers. For more details call 01364 645480 or visit www. familiesforchildren.org.uk/lgbtqadoption/

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Can you help the ‘manky pups’? An urgent appeal for funding support has been issued by a Plymouth dogs and cats home, following the rescue of seven dogs being kept in appalling conditions in Devon. Gables Dogs and Cats Home received a call earlier this year regarding a suspected puppy farm. When they arrived, staff discovered the dogs living in cramped, tiny, wooden kennels with no heating, the only ‘bedding’ to be seen was filthy, compacted straw on the floor. The seven dogs, aged from three months to six years old, were very underweight and huddled together for warmth. There were six poodle crosses, all with badly matted coats and covered head to toe in mud and their own waste. The seventh dog, a lurcher now named Martha, was suffering from severe hair loss and infected sores all over her body. Her tail had been badly chewed and damaged, leaving open wounds that were also infected. All seven dogs were very nervous and had diarrhoea, with the majority of them also suffering from sore infected ears and in desperate need of dental treatment. Gables took all seven into their care and after thorough checks from their vet, started the treatment they needed, including a hernia repair for one of them. They have all been clipped, trimmed and tidied up to help them feel more comfortable by Dee from Deesigner Pets, who kindly volunteered her time to help them. It is estimated it will cost Gables around £1,200 for all the treatment they have received, plus ongoing medical care. Claire Sparkes, general manager at Gables, said: ‘Although they were nervous when they first arrived at Gables, most of these dogs have quickly found their feet and it is so lovely to see them enjoying some fuss and attention now. However, a few of them have struggled to

cope so will need some extra time and patience. ‘As a genuine non-euthanasia charity we are more than happy to give them all the time they need to learn to trust humans again and find the perfect forever homes they deserve.’ Gables Dogs and Cats Home does not receive any government funding and has felt the financial strain from the Coronavirus pandemic. If you can make a contribution to ‘Seven Manky Pups Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/7mankypups to donate online. You can also donate via text: • To donate £1, text GABLES7D to 70201 • To donate £3, text GABLES7D to 70331 • To donate £5, text GABLES7D to 70970 • To donate £10, text GABLES7D to 70191 * Fundraising, payments and donations will be processed and administered by the National Funding Scheme (Charity No: 1149800), operating as DONATE. Texts will be charged at your standard network rate. For Terms & Conditions, see www.easydonate.org

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Freeport access to jobs and opportunity Plymouth is to become a Freeport, unlocking millions of pounds of funding for the area - both within the city’s boundaries and across wider South Devon area. Plymouth City Council led a partnership with Devon County and South Hams District councils, as well as the Heart of the South West LEP on a bid to become a freezone, to include sites at Devonport South Yard, Langage Energy Zone and Sherford Business Park. The Plymouth and South Devon freezone would aim to create space for businesses to import goods and materials, add value to them by manufacture, and export them and leverage Plymouth’s marine innovation strengths to attract big marine sector tech companies. Up to 1,000 new jobs could be created in the first two years and up to 9,000 over the next 10 years and 50 new apprenticeships and 10 internships every year by 2027. More than 70 local businesses are expected to benefit from the scheme, forecast to bring in over £100m investment in the next six years. Cllr Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: ‘While we are waiting for the detail I am beyond chuffed that our thriving marine sector has been recognised as a strength and something to build on. ‘It also shows working with our neighbouring colleagues pays off. Bottom line this means jobs, job security, opportunities and significant investment.’ Devon County Council’s cabinet member for economy, Rufus Gilbert, said: ‘I am delighted the Government has

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NOTICEBOARD approved the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport. ‘The Freeport will help level up the regional economy and provide good jobs for local people as well as welcome apprentice opportunities for our young people.’ Cllr Judy Pearce, leader of South Hams District Council, said: ‘Plymouth and South Devon will have one of the first Freeport locations in England. This is great news for us in South Hams because it could bring thousands of jobs and millions of pounds of investment to our doorstep. I am delighted our collaborative efforts to work across local authority boundaries has proven successful.’ Under the new Freeport status the proposed sites would enjoy specific tax and relief benefits, with companies based there able to access special allowances encouraging firms to invest. The aim is to increase export trade and direct foreign investment. Another goal would be to not only increase the number of jobs, but the calibre of jobs and encourage higher income jobs into the area through research and innovation opportunities. The knock-on effect locally will enable Devon County Council to bring forward works at the Deep Lane junction on the A38, unlocking housing at Sherford. If all goes to plan, the Freezone could be up and running by next summer.

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Inspiring new facility for higher level education

Centre should provide boost for aspiring engineers

Oceansgate Phase 2 nearing completion

new dedicated learning environment is opening at Oceansgate, Plymouth’s marine enterprise zone, with teaching expected to start this September. City College Plymouth is transforming 631 square metres of industrial unit into a bespoke facility to deliver new university-level courses that will provide highquality and up-to-date training to people both looking to work and already working in the marine and engineering

industries. Alongside the development of the new state-of-the-art building, new degree programmes have been developed as part of the South West Institute of Technology project. The College has worked closely with local employers to identify the skills required and has used this to develop four Bachelor of Science degrees linked to naval architecture, marine engineering, integrated technologies

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EDUCATION and autonomous engineering. Jackie Grubb, principal and CEO at the College, said: ‘Plymouth is a world-leader in marine technology and engineering. The facilities on offer to students at the new Oceansgate site will be world-class, and the training on offer - that has been developed with guidance of industry experts - will equip our students with the skills necessary to continue to take this industry forward. ‘The marine industry has played a vital part in Plymouth’s history, and City College Plymouth is committed to ensuring it is a vital part of the city’s - and wider region’s - future.’ The waterfront facilities will maximise on their location, surrounded by key marine businesses and organisations including the Marine Business Technology Centre (MBTC). Students will be able to access specialist equipment through the MBTC’s proving area, Smart Sound Plymouth, which is used for designing, testing and developing cutting-edge marine and autonomous products. Lance Chatfield, academy manager for higher technology skills, said: ‘Oceansgate unit 1.6 will have traditional classroom spaces upstairs; however, these have been developed with flexible and agile usage in mind, allowing both students and their employers alike to utilise the building and its IT systems across multiple spaces. ‘Downstairs will see the development of three bespoke lab areas to enable the delivery of the College’s new Marine Autonomous Vehicle Foundation Degree and a new Higher National Certificate for the manufacturing maintenance sector, along with its existing provision in relation to electrical, marine and mechanical engineering university-level qualifications. ‘Two new workshops will also be created following feedback from industry to create and develop innovative composite material structures.’ Fiona Horrell, head of strategic partnerships, said: ‘It is fantastic to see the results of this partnership coming together in a way that will truly benefit both our students

and the industries in which they work. ‘City College Plymouth is a key educational partner within South West Institute of Technology, a partnership consisting of University of Plymouth, Exeter University, Exeter College, Petroc, Truro and Penwith College and Bridgewater and Taunton College. ‘We are committed to the vision to revolutionise the education and training for the engineering, marine and digital sectors and hopefully provide more opportunities for people within the region.’ Cllr Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: ‘With Oceansgate, we set out to create a dedicated space for the marine and maritime industry in an unbeatable waterfront location, attracting new businesses to our city and enabling them to flourish. ‘But attracting the businesses is just one piece of the puzzle – we need to make sure we are developing the right skill sets locally. City College’s new facility will help to do just that and we’re delighted to welcome them to Oceansgate.’ As part of the South West Institute of Technology, the College is investing £2million of Department for Education funding to boost the local marine, engineering, manufacturing and digital sectors. It will offer top-quality programmes, training and Apprenticeships in higher-level technical skills with a particular focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. The College’s new facility is based in Oceansgate’s second phase. The already complete Phase 1 has a mix of offices and industrial units, home to several marine and maritime businesses. The £7.6 million Phase 2 development has been funded by Plymouth City Council and a £2.25 million grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). n

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NATURALIST

The joy of

lichens...

dyeing wool - even today a few people still use small s you walk around towns, villages, woodland, amounts for dyeing. ‘Cudbear’ (Ochrolechia) produced a moorland or the seashore, you may have noticed crimson or purple dye (extracted by soaking it in urine!), small greyish-green or orange-yellow plants growing on while ‘crottle’ (or crotal, Parmelia) gave a brown colour. walls, rocks, roofs, trees, the soil, gravestones, or seashore A few lichens are also used to make perfumes with a rocks; many of these are lichens. Lichens are a close musk-like fragrance. The Saami people who inhabit association or a ‘symbiosis’ between a fungus and an alga in which both organisms benefit. There are many different Lapland traditionally have herds of reindeer which they live with all year round. In these Arctic areas lichens like types of lichens, including over 1,900 in Britain, of which ‘reindeer moss’ (Cladonia) are an important food source around 900 are found in Devon. To fully enjoy them for reindeer. you need to use a magnifying glass, or a jeweller’s loupe Lichens are very slow growing, some growing less than (available from opticians), or better still a X10 hand lens. a millimetre per year, others up to 5mm or more per If you look closely, you will see they are truly beautiful. year. By studying the growth rate of different lichens, it They occur in several forms: crust-like (crustose, tightly is possible to estimate the age of a lichen and therefore attached to trees or rocks), leafy (foliose) or shrubby the age of its ‘host’. For instance, (fruticose); some even produce the stone sculptures on Easter tiny ‘pixie-cups’. They are found As the air becomes Island are estimated to be 400 growing on almost all types of progressively cleaner the variety of years old, while the oldest alpine surface, including metal, PVC plastic, and glass; some even grow lichens increases, until in very clean lichens may live up to 1,000 years! on my car! Lichens can grow in air, such as in Devon, rare species Lichens known as dog lichens very harsh environments such as may be found (Peltigera), also sometimes grow deserts, mountain tops or the high in lawns, as do weeds. Gardeners Arctic. In the Himalayas they have often worry about ‘weeds’ – but they are basically been found growing at 7,400 metres (over 24,000 feet). beautiful wildflowers which appear, according to some Lichens are highly sensitive to atmospheric pollution, gardeners, in the ‘wrong’ place. Many flowers such particularly sulphur dioxide (SO2). In industrial as dandelions, daisies, self-heal, speedwell, hawkbits, city centres, there are very few lichens as a result of buttercups, primroses, nettles, etc, are foodplants for high concentrations of SO2; but as the air becomes insects such as hoverflies, bees, butterflies and moths. progressively cleaner the variety of lichens increases, We can take a positive step towards helping maintain until in very clean air, such as in Devon, rare species insect populations by allowing just a part of our lawn to may be found – such as the ‘string of sausages’ lichen become a wildflower meadow, simply by not mowing it (Usnea articulata) which is fairly common on Dartmoor. for a few weeks until the wildflowers have finished.n As well as being indicators of air quality, the presence of certain species is a sign of ancient woodland. Whereas Anthony John on the rocky seashore there are several lichen ‘zones’; More information: the lowest tide-washed zone is black, looking tar-like The Field Studies Council publishes fold-out charts (available (this is Verrucaria); above this is an orange zone (with from local bookshops) showing many of the common lichens Caloplaca), and higher still is a grey zone with ‘sea ivory’ or go to the British Lichen Society website: (Ramalina). www.britishlichen society.org.uk In earlier centuries, lichens were used extensively in

“

”

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Caring for animals for more than a century

ables Dogs & Cats Home is a non-euthanasia rescue and rehoming centre that has been helping the region’s unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats since 1907. They take in and care for up to 1,000 dogs and cats every year and they either re-home them or reunite them with their owners if they are lost. On a daily basis they care for around 80 dogs and over 100 cats. The majority of the animals they help are unwanted pets, given up by their owners for numerous reasons. They take in stray and lost cats that are found wandering the streets, some in a very poor condition and in desperate need of help, and unclaimed stray dogs from local councils. They also take animals from the RSPCA that have sadly been neglected and abused by their owners or injured in road traffic accidents. Gables provide a temporary boarding service for local councils, taking care of dogs and cats for people in

Sam and Phatima

difficult situations, until their owners are in a position to reclaim them. Sometimes they are signed over to the charity’s care once it is established that the owner is unable to provide for them anymore. Most of the animals in their care are re-homed within a few weeks, but some dogs and cats stay in their care much longer than others. This can just be a case of them being overlooked, having a disability that requires specialist care or due to their appearance, but more commonly it is because they have specialised behavioural needs that many people don’t have the time for, or experience to cope with. Some dogs and cats have not been socialised when they are young, so they develop defensive and inappropriate behaviours towards strangers and other animals. Others have experienced trauma, neglect or abuse in their past, which has knocked their confidence with people. It can take a long time to gain the trust of these animals to be able to rehabilitate them so they can start to enjoy life and look for a new home. Gables believes that there is a special someone out there for every dog and cat, it is just a case of finding them. Gables never put a healthy animal to sleep and never give up hope of finding them a new loving home, no matter how long it takes or how much it costs! All of their animals are health checked by a vet, neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and treated for fleas and worms before going to a new home. Dogs are also assessed by a qualified dog behaviourist to establish what type of home they need. Gables re-home animals all over Devon, Somerset,

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CHARITY Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. They totally rely on the generosity and support of the public through donations and legacies, as they don’t receive any Government or other funding. 2020 was a strange and difficult year for everyone and Gables have certainly faced some challenges. The Coronavirus restrictions and lockdowns have limited their ability to offer vital boarding services and their usual fundraising activities have ceased, leaving them with a massive £50,000 deficit. Despite the difficulties of 2020, Gables were able to hold several successful virtual events last year and they would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who got involved and supported them. Whether you took part in one dog show or every single one, bought five slices or a whole ginger cake, tried your luck in a raffle or simply spread the word, they appreciate your support and hope you had as much fun as they did! There are many ways you can show your support and help the dogs and cats that Gables care for each year. These include taking part in their online pet shows, buying their homemade cakes, taking part in their raffles, ordering from their Amazon Wish List, sponsoring a dog or cat, setting up a regular standing order, organising your own fundraising events and much more...

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Gypsy

Gables are always grateful for any donations from their supporters, they wouldn’t survive without them. They have supermarket collections bins in stores around Plymouth and welcome any animal food donations (not bedding) in them or any of the following items that they are regularly in need of: • Laundry washing powder • Heavy duty, large puppy pads • Cardboard cat scratchers • Cat scratching posts • Wet cat food - particularly Felix or Whiskers (adult and kitten) • Wet dog food - particularly Chappie or Pedigree Chum • Cat nip toys & balls • Dog toys - the stronger the better • Olbas oil There are many other ways that you can help and support them during this difficult so please visit their website and follow their social media channels to find out more and for further updates and for any information on when they will be opening again. Gables understand that this is a difficult time for everyone and they really appreciate everything that their amazing supporters do for them.n More Information: Visit www.gablesfarm.org.uk Visit our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk 27

SPRING

gardening Time to rejuvenate those borders...

arly spring is a great time to revitalise garden borders that have become lacklustre, overcrowded, or somehow never quite satisfactory. New plants can be settled in before the growing season really kicks off; mature shrubs may be rejuvenated by hard pruning; herbaceous perennials and ornamental grasses can be divided to turn single plants or small groups into large, eye-catching drifts. It’s easy to overlook how plants grow and change over time and a once-attractive border will have plants that have grown at different speeds to become unbalanced. Start by looking at the largest plants – usually shrubs, sometimes conifers. Even quite mature plants, particularly evergreens, can be moved to a new site if done with care. It very much depends on the type and the root system, but if a plant is in the wrong place, it’s worth a go. Do check for nesting birds first, though, and delay until autumn if you have any residents. Get the new planting hole prepared first; dig round the plant and slip a piece of tarp underneath to keep as much soil round the roots as possible. The other option is to hard prune: the usual method of rejuvenating a mature plant is to thin out about a third of the oldest stems near the ground, letting light and air through the congested centre and encourages new growth. However, there are some shrubs such as camellias and laurels that can be taken back almost to the ground, even when mature, and which will regrow really well. Also late-summer flowering shrubs such as butterfly bush (Buddleja) can be hard pruned in total too. Introducing just a few new plants to a border can make an astonishing transformation. Think about contrasting shape, foliage, and stem colour, as these will impact all year. Flowers are delightful, of course, and choosing blooms for a succession of colour through every season will pay dividends. Choose pollinator-friendly plants wherever possible: bees, butterflies and other insects need every bit of help we can give. Go to www.rhs.org.uk for an extensive downloadable list of Plants for Pollinators. Fortunately, garden centres and nurseries have mostly remained open during lockdown (check opening times first though) and it’s great to continue to support local businesses wherever possible. n 28

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GARDENING

Gardening jobs for the seas

ground, into soil or Plant lily bulbs in tubs or in the and well drainage. Not compost that is organic matter is your priority, plant regal all are scented, so if perfume us Oriental hybrids. lily (Lilium regale) and sumptuo wdrops can be Big clumps of crocus and sno the clump, separating transplanted now by lifting s, and replanting. into several clusters of bulb s. A regular whizz Keep on top of weed seedling young weeds – on a dry round with a hoe to slice oﬀ ing work later. day - saves hours of backbreak kill weeds the slow Avoid weedkiller and instead ground with lightand easy way, by covering the or landscaping fabric. excluding brown cardboard

, shallot, and garlic Plant seed potatoes, onion sets spring planting. varieties that are suitable for

your garden to beneﬁt Add or expand the water in and can be made to any wildlife. A pond is fantastic be a big attraction: do size. Even just a bird bath will regularly and remember clean and refresh the water to clean bird feeders too.

GARDEN DESIGNER & HORTICULTURAL SPECIALIST Inspirational ideas to transform your garden Sue continues to be available for garden advisory visits and design work, operating according to Covid-19 social distancing guidelines. Gift vouchers available for garden advisory visits. Contact Sue for more details.

Sue Fisher

01822 841895 | sueﬁsher@talktalk.net | www.sueﬁshergardens.co.uk

ALL ASPECTS OF LANDSCAPING AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Decking & Fencing • Dry Stone Walling • Patios & Pathways • Timber Structures • Groundworks

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CIT Y AND GUILDS QUALIFIED

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Can a garden be both beautiful and low maintenance?

ardens offer a natural escape and a haven from the pressures of life. However, ‘I love my garden, but not the work!’ is a common complaint amongst householders. For some people life is just too busy to fit those precious gardening hours into a hectic weekly schedule. For others, whilst passionate about gardening, they find that keeping on top of the mowing is getting too much. So what are the options for a beautiful but low maintenance outdoor space? One increasingly popular option is artificial grass. Latest manufacturing technologies mean that modern, fake grasses are very realistic with brown thatch woven into the root zone to resemble real biomass. Artificial grass provides the perfect lawn without the mowing, mud and maintenance hassle of natural grass, and by retaining plant borders, the overall effect looks very natural. Artificial grass is both pet and child-friendly, and is an ideal solution for sloping, smaller, unusual shaped lawns or tricky-to-access areas with a lawn mower. Front lawn installations are just as popular as back lawns, since artificial grass can give a property instant ‘kerb appeal’ – looking tidy and well-kept all year round.

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GARDENING Decking is an attractive option for creating a social space in your garden. There are some fantastic natural-looking decking boards which are anti-slip and eco-friendly, made from recycled materials. These decks look amazingly like wood but come without the maintenance headaches and they will outlast wood by many, many years. Yelverton-based family firm Green Scheme has been creating low maintenance, outdoor spaces for over 10 years for both domestic and commercial customers. One recent Green Scheme customer, Brian Crawford, said: ‘A large acer tree shaded the lawn a lot of the time, so it was always patchy and tatty. It was high maintenance. Now, it’s a piece of cake. And it looks entirely authentic – I don’t think anyone would look at the lawn and think it’s not real.’ For expert advice and a free quote contact 01822 855427 or visit: greenschemegrass.com n

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Do you have suspected or Do you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19? Symptoms may include: confirmed COVID-19? Symptoms may include: Loss or change New cough New cough

High temperature High temperature

HELP THE FIGHT HELP THE AGAINST FIGHT COVID-19 AGAINST COVID-19

in smell or taste Loss or change in smell or taste

If you are either: If you are either:

Aged Aged 65 and 65 and above above

Or aged 18-64 Or and experiencing aged 18-64 and shortness of experiencing breath as part shortness of of COVID-19 breath as part illness of COVID-19 illness

Or aged 18-64 with certain underlying health conditions suchunderlying as: Or aged 18-64 with certain health conditions such as: High blood pressure and/ or heart High blood pressure disease and/ or heart

Stroke or neurological Stroke or problems neurological

disease Known diabetes Known

problems Liver disease Liver

diabetes Asthma or lung disease Asthma or

disease Obesity or BMI ≥35 kg/m22 Obesity or BMI

lung disease ≥35 kg/m2 Weakened immune system due to serious illness or medication Weakened immune system due to serious illness or medication

You could be eligible to join the PRINCIPLE You could be eligible to join the PRINCIPLE trial and help the fight against COVID-19 trial and help the fight against COVID-19 The PRINCIPLE trial aims to find treatments that improve symptoms and reduce hospital admission for people with to COVID-19 The PRINCIPLE trial aims find treatments that improve symptoms and reduce hospital admission for people with COVID-19

To find out more or register for the study, To find visit out more or register for the study, please www.principletrial.org please visit www.principletrial.org

0800 138 0880 0800 138 0880 principle@phc.ox.ac.uk principle@phc.ox.ac.uk

Ethics Ethics ref: ref: 20/SC/058 20/SC/058

Patient Patient recruitment recruitment poster, poster, v1.5 v1.5 12.02.21, 12.02.21, IRAS IRAS no: no: 281958 281958

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Patient recruitment poster, v1.5 12.02.21, IRAS no: 281958

Adults urged to join treatments trial

Devon residents with typical Covid-19 symptoms are being asked to join a national trial of treatments for recovery at home.

ed by University of Oxford researchers, the Platform Randomised trial of Interventions against Covid-19 In older people (PRINCIPLE) trial is investigating treatments for early-stage Covid-19 that can reduce overall recovery time and the burden of symptoms, preventing the need for hospital admission. Previously, only adults aged 50 or over and at most risk of complications from the illness were eligible to join the trial. With the nationwide vaccine programme continuing at pace, expanding parts of the trial to adults aged under 50 will provide new insights into whether treatments can help those at greater risk of severe Covid-19 illness. The trial now includes participants with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 either aged

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HEALTH 18-64 with shortness of breath from the illness or certain underlying health conditions that put them at risk of severe illness, or those aged over 65. The research team is appealing for people with suspected or confirmed coronavirus symptoms to join the trial either online, over the telephone or via their GP practice. The trial is entirely remote, meaning face-to-face visits with the trial team in Oxford are not needed. Professor Michael Gibbons, Clinical Director for the Clinical Research Network South West Peninsula, said: ‘We are asking for eligible volunteers aged over 18 from all across the South West to join the PRINCIPLE trial when they first experience Covid-19 symptoms. With Covid-19 still circulating in the community, and little known about the effect of new viral variants on younger adults, it is vital that we seize this window of opportunity to generate high-quality evidence to determine which treatments work, and which don’t.’ PRINCIPLE is funded by a grant to the University of Oxford from UK Research and Innovation and the Department of Health and Social Care through the National Institute for Health Research as part of the UK Government’s rapid research response fund. To find out how to join the study, visit www.principletrial. org or call 0800 138 0880. n

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HEALTH

Vitamins and supplements They’re big business - but do they work?

alk down the aisles of any chemist or supermarket these days, and you are bound to stumble upon the huge, colourful and confusing vitamins and supplements section. There is no doubt that the supplement industry is big business, but is there any evidence that they do any good? The very short answer is, if you eat a balanced diet, then probably not. Many of the everyday foods we consume are already fortified with essential vitamins and minerals – from breakfast cereals, bread and even table salt, so adding in extra vitamins is rarely necessary. Surely it couldn’t harm to take a few vitamins just in case? Well, apart from the damage to your wallet, it is possible for over the counter supplements to have negative effects. Fat soluble vitamins in particular, such as A, D, E and K can be toxic if the recommended daily amount is exceeded and other popular over the counter supplements such as St John’s Wort can interfere with prescribed medication, such as the contraceptive pill or blood thinners. Never exceed the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of any vitamin and always let your doctor know if you are taking anything over the counter. You may be wondering how manufacturers can sell these products if there is so little evidence that they actually work. Over the counter supplements are regulated by general food law, as opposed to those for pharmaceutical drugs, therefore the only standard they must reach is that they are fit for human consumption. Look carefully and you will see the wording used on the packaging is deliberately vague ‘may help fatigue and tiredness’, ‘designed to boost energy and vitality’, ‘contributes to bone health’, ‘can aid a good night’s sleep’, ‘traditionally used for...’ etc. All that said, there are a few groups in whom extra vitamins and supplements are recommended: • If you’re pregnant or trying for a baby it’s recommended that you take a 400 microgram folic acid supplement, which available over the counter, every day

until you’re 12 weeks pregnant. This is to help to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida. • Breastfed babies should be given a daily supplement containing 8.5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D from birth, (even if the mother is taking a supplement containing vitamin D) Infant formula is fortified with vitamin D and other nutrients • Children aged six months to five years should take vitamin supplements containing vitamins A, C and D every day. Your health visitor is a good port of call if you have any questions about childhood vitamins. • People who are not often exposed to the sun – such as people who are frail or housebound, are in an institution such as a care home, or usually wear clothes that cover most of their skin when outdoors, should take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D. This year the government provided a four month supply of Vitamin D to all care home residents, to counter the effect of the fact that many of these vulnerable residents would have had very little exposure to sunlight during the pandemic. • Many vegetarian and vegan patients ask me if they need to take extra vitamins. While maintaining a balanced diet can be more challenging for those excluding certain food groups, it is perfectly possible to eat a plant-based diet without the need for supplementation, provided you do your homework. NHS choices website has some useful guidance www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/the-vegan-diet/ My advice to my patients is simple - unless you fall into one of the at risk categories, you almost certainly can save your money. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a wide, varied diet with fruit and vegetables and getting regular exercise is the real route to feeling better - and unfortunately, there are no shortcuts to that available over the counter. n

Dr Rachel Tyler is a doctor at Stirling Road Surgery, St Budeax

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FOOD & DRINK

What to drink with a roast meal?

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

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Sauvignons that are superb value. With chicken of the much of the flavour is in the skin and gravy. Generally white wine goes well, but light reds like Pinot Noir and Gamay (aka Beaujolais) can also please. Burgundy-style Chardonnay is the classic pairing but good Chardonnay grows worldwide - again look for a Here are some little oak to add texture and body. Viognier is also a good option, being full-bodied with distinctive notes of peach suggestions... Dave Anning and honeysuckle. Traditional wine pairings for roasts are solid The key to roast pork is crackling - highly flavoursome choices, but times and fashions change - the fat! You can go red or white - robust rose will work too ‘rules’ about red meat/red wine and white meat/white wine have - but I’d like to finish by encouraging you to try something different. blurred and vegetarian/vegan meals have introduced new Nerello Mascalese is little-known, but could have been made for flavours. pork. From the slopes of Mount Etna this has the best qualities of For food and wine to enhance one another they should match in Pinot Noir and Sangiovese - enough acid to cope with crackling and terms of weight and flavour, so consider the strongest flavour on bags of fruit to envelop the meat. Plus - I always like to review the plate. If it’s a sauce, match the wine with the sauce! Consider something that nobody can spell! n Dave Anning two plates of chicken and pasta. One has a rich tomato and garlic sauce, the other a creamy cheese sauce - match the wine to the sauce, not the chicken! Rich, succulent lamb is the Easter favourite. A crispy outer coating, garlic and rosemary - this needs a robust bottle. Classics like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah (Shiraz if you’re an Aussie!) won’t let you down, but I’d suggest a Crianza or Reserva Rioja. These wines spend six months or a year respectively in oak barrels, adding spicy flavours to the natural dark fruit flavours. Don’t get confused with Gran Reserva, which is very complex and better suited to seriously hearty foods like game. Vegan and vegetarian roasts offer enormously varied flavours so I’m going to consider a nut-based roast. Rare but worth seeking out are appassimento white wines from Italy. Some of the grapes are dried to intensify the flavours, and the result is rich, nutty and complex. Red wine fans could consider Cotes du Rhone, with its spicy and herbaceous notes and robust character. Beef is expensive, so do it proud! Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and claret blends are favourites, but can be dear. Fortunately there are tremendous examples from the New World (eg South America, South Africa and the USA). Chile is an excellent choice, producing sophisticated and weighty Cabernet

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FOOD & DRINK

Healthy nutrition for your pets Choosing the right food for your dog or cat and ensuring it gets everything it needs to stay fit and healthy can be the hardest challenge. With new pet foods constantly coming onto the market all claiming one thing or another, that can sometimes make it sound better than your current food, can often make you re-think, or question your dog or cat’s needs. Searching through the internet for the right food can be even more confusing. This is where the knowledge and expertise of your local independent pet shop comes into its own, especially those that actively advertise natural feeding. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing your pet’s food is, will it meet its nutritional needs? And will it help my dog if it has any special requirements such as joint aid, intolerances, skin and coat problems etc? If you can satisfy this, then you are on the right road to having a happy and healthy pet for a very long time. So what are we looking for?

• A natural wholesome diet with minimum ingredients. • A quality protein source not exceeding 60% total, this should be an animal protein which is highly nutritious and easy to digest. • A good source of carbohydrates such as sweet potato not exceeding 30%. • Oils such as linseed, sunflower oil or chicken oils - this will give

GRAIN FREE MADE IN THE UK

your pet the fatty acids that it needs. • Fruits and vegetables which will add natural vitamins and minerals. • Consistency in quantities when looking at the composition on the label to ensure the ingredients are the same each time you buy the same food. • Look for words on the packaging such as hypoallergenic or natural . What to be wary of and to avoid

• Artificial additives and preservatives - these often come with E numbers and can upset your dog’s behaviour. • Meat and animal derivatives - this could be anything belonging to the animal including feathers, beaks, offal, skin and other nasties. It is also telling you the ingredients are inconsistent. • Vegetable derivatives could include potato peelings, roots and off-cuts. • Cereals as a main ingredient is not a natural diet for carnivores. • Vague listing of ingredients - this allows the manufacturer to change the ingredient for cheaper ingredients in the next batch they make. • Read the label carefully, it might say chicken and rice, but manufacturers only need to include a minimum of 4% of each to make that claim. Remember, because it’s expensive, doesn’t make it the best food for your pet. For more information on pet nutrition please do not hesitate to contact us for advice - with over 30 years in the pet industry we have some very wise words. Gavin Ayling, Rons Pet Supplies - Tavistock

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WHAT’S ON

May 2

Open Gardens Covid restricitions permitting, the garden at Mothecombe House, Holbeton, opens on Sunday, May 2nd from 11am to 5pm. The garden is set in a private estate hamlet, with walled pleasure gardens, borders and a Lutyens courtyard surrounding a Queen Anne house (not open) with Lutyens additions and terraces. There is much to see including an orchard with spring bulbs, unusual shrubs and trees, a camellia walk, streams, bog garden and pond plus bluebell woods. Don’t miss the unusual shaped large tulip tree, the new walled garden planting of lavenders and the bee friendly plants and the sandy beach at the bottom of garden. Admission is £6 and children are free. Dogs on short leads are welcome. The garden is opening for the National Garden Scheme who raise money to support Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Hospices UK, Carers Trust and other nursing and caring charities. It is likely that visiting will be by pre-booking only and it is ESSENTIAL to check on the website www.ngs.org.uk for up-to-date information on openings and current Covid restrictions. Also open for the National Garden Scheme are The Haven, Hollacombe, Wembury, and Derrydown, Sparkwell, Plymouth. Both these gardens are open by arrangement for small groups. This means that the garden welcomes visitors on pre-agreed dates. Please contact the garden owner to arrange a date. The Haven is a half-acre sloping plantsman’s garden with two ponds, a substantial collection of magnolias and camellias and rare dwarf, weeping and slow growing conifers. There are also daphnes, early azaleas and rhododendrons, spring bulbs and hellebores. The garden opens by arrangement only from March - May for groups of between 5 and 20. Admission is £4 and children are free. Please contact Mrs S Norton and Mr J Norton, suenorton1@hotmail.co.uk, 01752 862149 to arrange visiting. Derrydown is half-acre garden with raised beds, a quirky fish pond,

pagoda with kiwi, grape vines and a new plot with a 50ft circular lawn, frog pond, berry hedge, wild meadows, flowers, moon gates and double glazed greenhouses. Rain water harvesting and upcycling and a rill is used here. A children’s quiz will be available, dogs permitted on leads only. Admission is £5, children are free The garden opens by arrangement only from April – September for groups of between 4 and 25. Please contact Peter & Ann Tremain anntremain1942@gmail.com 07940 543707 to arrange visiting.

St Luke’s Open Garden Scheme With last year’s Open Garden events for St Luke’s Hospice being cancelled, we all missed getting together to enjoy the beautiful gardens in our communities. Thank you to all those who made voluntary donations to the work of St Luke’s in lieu of garden visits. For 2021 we have organised a varied summer schedule which currently includes 16 garden dates between April and September. We will endeavour to open wherever possible but only if it is deemed safe and legal to do so. On occasions, there may be opportunities to view a virtual tour of some of our gardens. This season you will need to visit the St Luke’s Hospice website and select the garden you plan to visit, then book and pay for your allocated day and time slot. You will also find a link with a chance to win an original Brian Pollard canvas, generously painted and donated to St Luke’s Open Garden scheme by Brian, one of our hospice patrons. Before visiting any of the open gardens, you must check the Government website for national and local Covid-19 guidelines. Over two thirds of St Luke’s running costs are funded by charitable giving, so any donations you can spare will really help to make a difference. Thank you for your help and I look forward to seeing you at our open gardens this season. Wayne Marshall Community Fundraiser & Open Garden Coordinator

Enjoy a venue with a difference! With the completion of our new Barn and The Ark, we are open and available for events that fit into the calm, beautiful, wildness of Dartmoor. Day or residential events to suit your every need, whether they are educational, charitable, family celebrations or business. Delicious home grown and cooked food with an opportunity to help share in the daily tasks of the farm, with the animals as the highlight of your event on the Moors.

Call us directly for a discussion on how we can help? Two miles from Widecombe in the Moor

01364 621392 / info@shallowfordfarm.co.uk Please mention PLYM LINKS when responding to adverts

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WHAT’S ON

April 8

May 28

Take a virtual tour...

Moor Otters Arts Trail is back!

Medieval yeoman farmers on Dartmoor lived in longhouses alongside their animals. Some of these longhouses can still be seen across the moor today, but over time, many of them have been converted and made more comfortable; losing some of their historic features. Higher Uppacott is a wonderful example of a traditional Dartmoor longhouse which still has its living quarters at one end and the shippon for cattle at the other. Join National Park Guide Ian Johnstone for a guided tour of this fascinating building, looking at the clues that tell us how people lived in it for hundreds of years. This is a story of how each generation tried to make the building more comfortable, making small improvements over time which can be seen in the fabric of the walls, windows and even the thatch. This online talk, at 7pm on April 8th, is organised by Dartmoor National Park and is part of a programme of monthly talks bringing Dartmoor’s incredible heritage to you in the comfort of your own home. Register for a ticket to watch using the web link www.trybooking. com/uk/book/sessions?eid=16843&embed=true The talk will take place on YouTube. If you have a YouTube account, you can ask questions throughout the chat or you can email in advance and during the talk and Ian will do his best to answer: education@dartmoor.gov.uk. You will get full joining instructions once you have booked your ticket.

Dartmoor National Park Authority’s Moor Otters Arts Trail goes live on Friday, May 28th, helping people explore, discover and learn more about Dartmoor and raise money for its on-going conservation. Eighty-one stunning sculptures of otters with cubs, designed and decorated by local and national artists – will be placed around the National Park and places near Dartmoor. The trails are designed so people can safely explore Dartmoor on foot, bike, car or public transport and learn about the National Park as they go. There will be four trails on Dartmoor and one in Plymouth, the Mayflower Trail, which commemorates the historic journey of the Mayflower in 1620. Otters can also be spotted in towns and villages on the outskirts of the National Park too. Before setting out on a trail, please check www.dartmoor.gov.uk/ moorotters for the most up to date information. People will have the opportunity to own a sculpture when the public trail ends by bidding for one through an online auction, which also goes live on May 28th. The Moor Otters Arts Trail aims to raise £60,000 for Donate for Dartmoor, the National Park’s fundraising scheme which helps look after the moor’s cultural heritage, habitats and wildlife.

A Shared Perspective & Spring Exhibition Featuring new work from Michael Hill & Shirley Kirkcaldy and other Wildwood artists. View on-line at:

www.wildwoodartsdartmoor.co.uk

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May 1 - 31

MUSIC & ART

Delamore Arts and Sculpture Exhibition This exhibition takes place throughout May at the beautiful Delamore House and gardens at Cornwood. The largest exhibition of its kind in the South West, it boasts over 150 artists, specialising in showing sculpture in a natural outdoor setting. The gardens are rarely open to the public, and are at their best during May. In addition to the main exhibition the South West Academy of Fine and Applied Arts (SWAc) will be holding its Summer Exhibition in Delamore’s Stables Gallery. Now in its 18th successful year the exhibition has raised over £120,000 for local charities and this year it is supporting Starlight Children’s Foundation. For more information visit www.Delamore-art.co.uk or contact 01752 837663.

Unmistakeable style & strength The front cover picture for this edition of Plym Links is called The Tides Are Changing by Alli Cragg. Alli is a Devon-based artist with an unmistakable style. Whether you are gazing at one of her seascapes, landscapes or even her abstract work, you know who’s created it. Her striking use of colour and her ability to create movement and texture, makes her work breathtaking to say the least. All her paintings convey a sense of strength - whether that’s from her choice of colour, or the subject matter. This comes as no surprise when you learn that Alli is also a full-time nurse who has summoned her own inner strength this last year as she faced the pandemic on the front line. View the full collection at www.tavistockgalleries.com or in the gallery.

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MUSIC & ART

May 15-22

These Hills Are Ours A tour with a difference... Daniel Bye and Boff Whalley plan to run Devon coast-tocoast, performing their show These Hills Are Ours along

Plymouth to round off prestigious British Art Show 9 New dates for the UK’s most influential contemporary art exhibition, British Art Show 9 (BAS 9), have been confirmed, the nationwide tour culminating in Plymouth from October 8th to December 23rd, 2022. Held every five years to showcase the work of British artists who have made a significant contribution to international contemporary art, BAS9 will be shown across four city venues – The Box, KARST, The

the way - a journey postponed from last May. Starting on the quay at Hartland, Dan and Boff will perform in beauty spots, up hills, by waterfalls, in coves. They’ll perform on the village green, or in a back garden. Each performance will be different, and each location will tell a different story about what we’ve been missing this past year. The shows, the engagements with audience and singers, and the journey between performances, will be filmed to create a documentary. For more information go to www. carntocove.co.uk Levinsky Gallery at the University of Plymouth and The Gallery at Plymouth College of Art. Forty seven artists have been selected including Turner Alberta Whittle Celestial Meditations II, Prize winners and 2017. Courtesy of Alberta Whittle & bursary recipients Copperfield, London. and artists who have represented Britain at the prestigious Venice Biennale. Many are developing new works for the exhibition which will include sculpture, film, installation, performance, painting and photography.

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From Tavy bank to high moorland... A varied walk from the Mary Tavy Power Station with a 5km short option, extendible to 7km and offering beautiful views from Dartmoor.

START: 200mtrs south of Mary Tavy Church, SX 50901 78576 DISTANCE: either 5 or 7km TIME: Approximately 2-3 hours

ravel north from Tavistock and just before you enter Mary Tavy, turn right off the A386 by the Mary Tavy Inn. At the bottom of the hill, turn right again, pass Mary Tavy Church and park as far along the lane as you can, near the hydroelectric power station. This has operated since 1932, currently rated at about 2.5Mw. Carry on to the footbridge over the River Tavy. You may choose to indulge yourself with coffee on the bench by the river. Over the bridge, turn left and follow the track through heavily mined territory. This was the South Mine of Devon United, mining for tin and a little arsenic in the 1920s. Notice an adit portal with a stream coming out of the hillside; then the remains of a water turbine and the pipe that supplied water. There is also a leat. Just further along is a vast hole in the ground. Leave this to the Mining Exploration Group to delve into! The track rises across fields to a tarmac lane, turn left on this. In about half a kilometre, take the right fork steeply uphill to pass the ancient farm of Cudliptown. 42

Take a break on the Tavy bank

Continue uphill until you turn right off the tarmac across a clapper bridge. This track goes past fields for half a kilometre or so to a T-junction with a main track leading up left to the high moor. Here you have choice. You are now half way through your 5km option. Turn right to complete 5km, or turn left uphill for 1km, then straight back down again. Why bother? Well, firstly you will end up right out on the open moorland, with wonderful views in all directions. But most importantly, you will visit the iconic Stephen’s Grave. It is not a spectacular object; but what a story. Poor John Stephens was an agricultural labourer at Lower Goldsworthy Farm. He wooed and nearly won the daughter of the posh farmer at Wedlake. These two farms are in the valley in front of you, between here and Cox Tor. Perhaps he lost her affections, perhaps her parents rejected him as a future son-in-law; there are various stories. Anyway, he committed suicide, so is buried up here in the middle of nowhere. Locals will not walk up here after dark: would you? So onward and upward you go if your legs feel fit, before returning to this spot. Downhill it is not far to a tarmac lane. Turn briefly left uphill a bit, but do not go far enough to be between fields. An obvious worn path leads down 100m across the last bit of open moor to a stile, crossing into a field with a gate

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WALK Ordnance Survey



Start: Mary Tavy Power Station



John Stephen’s Grave

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At John Stephen’s Grave

Little Combe tumbling stream

at the far side. The path stays above Little Combe with its tumbling stream below and to your left. Beautiful moss covered boulders amaze your eyes! When there is a four way finger post, you go straight on. But pause a while and go left 50m to sit on a nice bench and enjoy the waters of Little Combe as they cascade steeply over water-worn boulders. Continue along the Combe and into

Peter Tavy Village. Immediately after crossing the stream, take the track along the far side of the stream to join the main road. Turn right uphill, and almost at once you reach Peter Tavy Church. Take the lane to the left passing the Peter Tavy Inn, this lane turns into a track that leads diagonally downhill, back to the bridge where you first crossed the Tavy. As I am sure you have noticed,

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there are two Inns available for you; hopefully soon to be re-opened after lockdown. If I were you I would wait to do the walk until they are open. Both do good food. For more and longer walks as lockdown eases try plymouthramblers.org.uk or the Dartmoor Rambling Club on 07780 913546 (public transport mid-week).n Ron Smith

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The Ghost of Dendles Wood Local historian and Dartmoor guide Paul Rendell tells the story of the witch who lived in Dendles Wood

DARTMOOR GUIDED WALKS with

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Enjoy a guided walk with local historian Paul Rendell. Theme walks include wildﬂowers, history and longer walks.

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HISTORY

t the meeting of two rivers on the south side of Dartmoor there used to stand a dwelling house where an old woman called Hannah and her son lived. She was said to possess much skill in magic and was disliked by the local people, who wondered how they both survived, as the son did not work as far as they knew and their garden was not looked after, so didn’t seem to produce any food. A farmer who lived nearby began to have a number of problems over a short period of time - his horse died, then a cow, and some of his sheep fell sick. Then the farmer himself fell sick. This all happened a few weeks after a number of hens had been stolen from his farm, for which he blamed Hannah’s son. The old woman did not take kindly to being called a witch and her son a thief, so it is said she put a curse on the farmer. The people of Cornwood went to see the witch to try to get her to break the spell. They found the cottage deep in Dendles Wood and knocked on the door. Noone answered, so they went away, but not too far, so they could watch the cottage. After many hours, the old woman’s son made an appearance. Alongside him was a lurcher, a dog that nobody knew he had. It was soon chasing and catching rabbits, which the youth put in a sack. Within a short time over 20 rabbits had

been caught. This incensed the locals who believed the rabbits belonged to them. They shouted, the boy ran off with the dog and they gave chase across the slippery woodland floor, jumping over the boulders. The boy leapt across the stream known as Broadall Lake and called his dog to follow, but it froze. The boy was heard shouting ‘Rin, mawther, rin!’, the dog jumped onto a rock in the river but slipped off into the water and disappeared. Within an instant the old woman was seen struggling in the water, in the same spot. She had taken on the shape of the dog but now it had drowned, the spell had been broken. From that day forward the farmer recovered and never had any problems on his farm again. It was said that the witch had died that day in the stream, but some locals did not believe it. As no one had seen the pair for months, they decided to visit the cottage. What they saw shocked them, proving that she had been a witch and was now dead. They found the corpse of an old woman inside with a bunch of broom in one hand and the skin of a black cat in the other. The son was never seen again and the dwelling fell into disrepair. She was truly dead... or is she still there haunting the woods? For it is said that people still claim to see the dog...n

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TECH HELP

Turning off ‘transparency effects’ When Windows 10 starts up, for the vast majority of us the picture is blurred before you get to the desktop. To remove the blurry image and see one of Microsoft’s lovely pictures, go to settings, type ‘transparency’ and choose ‘show transparency in windows’ in the search box. This will take you to the correct section in Settings, where you can turn off ‘transparency effects’ - et voila! Watch out for websites that seem to do the job you want, but for a price, where you can actually do it for yourself at no cost. I found myself wanting to SORN my wife’s car and searched for the service on Google only to find they wanted £37.50 to do it in 7 days or £27.50 in 30 days. I thought about it and went to the DVLA site where I did it myself for free. The

same is true of EHIC cards; there is a site that charges or you can do it for free on the correct site. Go to www.cyberaware.gov.uk for more information. I’ve long been a fan of the ‘Snipping Tool’ in Windows. It is changing to ‘Snip & Sketch’ which means it will be removed at some stage. The simple change means if you want to take a screenshot you start the process by pressing the Windows logo key + shift + S. This starts the app and from there you have a few more options than before, but basically it’s a new look in line with Windows 10 rather than 7. If you live rurally and your internet is not very good, there are some options such as satellite broadband, Airband or 4/5G mobile broadband, or you wait for BT to roll out an upgrade. I suspect conventional broadband and mobile broadband will be the way forward and Airband and satellite will be things of the past. Recent experience leads me to suggest South West Mobile Broadband, based in Axminster. There are other local communications installers and suppliers, but it is worth getting

a site survey first. The change in speed can be incredible. n

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