April Crier 2018 by The Torrington Crier

FREE APRIL 2018 The Crier is produced for the community, supported by advertisers, Great Torrington Town Council, and the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity. 5900 copies are distributed throughout Great Torrington and the rural district, with a readership of 14,750

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The Crier does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, legality or reliability of any information, product or service represented within our publication or on our web site. The information provided is for informational, educational or entertainment purposes only. Anyone using the information provided by The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Crier from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use. The Crier does not endorse or recommend any product, service or information found within said articles. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to The Crier belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Crier or its team. Web site links from The Crier or its website are provided for convenience only. The Crier is not responsible for the content or availability of any external or 3rd party sites and does not warrant or guarantee the products, services, or information found on these sites.

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From Your Mayor…

ell we have had some snow, pretty as it was, it does cause so many problems. On 9th February, Keeley and I visited Bluecoat Primary School, to count the votes for the May Queen. This is always an exciting day; all four girls were lovely and a credit to the school. Next the Heralds and the Attendants were picked and the excited children rang their parents! Now the hard work starts for the dressmaker Stephanie Fisher. My daughter Keeley and Steph have had lots of secret meetings, so now I’m like the children, excited to see what theme has been chosen. On the 17th February I was delighted to march a short way with the Cavaliers, and members of the Sealed Knot, to commemorate the 1646 Battle of Great Torrington. This is a wonderful evening steeped in history, and events like this must not be forgotten; my sincere thanks to everyone who helped that evening, the fireworks were fantastic. Special thanks to Big Al, whose knowledge of the history

of the battle and many other events in our history is amazing. Last month I attended Carol Curtis’ 60th Birthday party at Weare Gifford Village Hall, where we were entertained by an ABBA tribute band; it was a fantastic evening, the same band will be performing at Weare Gifford again, this time to raise much-needed funds for the North Devon Hospice, please support it if you can. I visited the Boxing Club recently; they were presented with a cheque from TDC for double glazed windows for the boxing club room. I was delighted to watch the youngsters training and having fun, well done to everyone involved. So much hard work goes in to training our excellent boxers of various ages. By the time you read this, the next Boxing Show will have taken place in Torrington, I’ll write about it next month. A date for your diary; on Sunday 22nd April I am having a Sunday roast lunch at Langtree Village Hall to raise money for my two charities: North Devon

Hospice and Torrington Army Cadets, please watch out for posters with more information, If you would like me to attend a special birthday or any event, please ring our office on 01805 626135, I will be delighted to support you. Best wishes Sue Mills, Proud to be Mayor of Great Torrington

Great Torrington Town Council Notice of Annual Meeting of the Town Council

otice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting and Inauguration of the Mayor of the above-named Town Council will be held at the Plough Arts Centre, Great Torrington on Tuesday 15th May 2018 at 7pm. The meeting is open to members of the public who are most welcome. Michael Tighe, Town Clerk

Castle Hill Opening Hours Library Book Renewals

01805 622107 0345 155 1001

New Opening times Tues 10am-6pm, Thursday 10am-5pm, Fri & Sat 10am-1pm

Café & Garden @ 1646

01805 626146

Open Mon – Sat 9am-4pm

Tourist Information

01805 626140

Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 4pm. Wed, Fri & Sat 10am – 1pm

Torrington Town Council

01805 626135

Tues, Wed & Thurs 9am-1pm answerphone available

Citizens’ Advice Bureau Torrington

03 444 111 444

Tues 9.30am-12.30pm drop in

Community Development Trust

01805 626100

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Genesis/Pannier Market Admin

01805 626110

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Heritage Museum & Archive

Contact Sue Scrutton 01805 622391 or Val Morris 01805 622306

The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Crier Team

Unit 2C Hatchmoor Industrial Estate Torrington EX38 7HP Open Tuesday to Saturday

Commons Conservators Elections

here are only two bodies in the town that are elected by the people of Great Torrington. The Town Council and the Great Torrington Commons Conservators. The election for the Conservators takes place every three years and the 10th May 2018 will see the latest elections. The election is administered by Torridge District Council and advertisements will be placed in the local press explaining how to enter into the election to become a Conservator. To be a Conservator you must be on the Great Torrington electoral roll and once you have applied, your name is entered on the ballot paper and Torrington residents will have the opportunity to vote at a date and place specified by the administrators. The fifteen candidates who receive the highest number of votes are elected. Who are the Conservators? The Commons Act of 1889 was an act of parliament that gave the Commons to the people of Great Torrington and it states that there should be a maximum of fifteen Conservators who are resident in Great Torrington and elected by the residents of Great Torrington, every three years. The Conservators are responsible for the administration and upkeep of the Commons. What does being a Conservator involve? First and foremost you are a trustee of the Commons and you apply the rules set out by the Commons Act 1889, standing orders and the Commons bye-laws. You will be expected to attend our monthly board meeting, held in the evening in Torrington. At these meetings you will have chance to discuss matters relating to the Commons and vote on issues which affect it. Approximately every three months we meet on a Saturday morning on the Commons to view work that has been completed and work that is required. Generally the Conservators do not carry out the Commons maintenance work, but knowledge of botany and wildlife are an advantage. If you live in Torrington, love Torrington Commons and have got a few hours a month to spare, why not put your name forward for election? Steve Jones, Chairman chairman.conservators@gmail.com

David ‘Fat Butcher’ Heywood is 80!

e will be holding an ‘open house’ at St.Giles sports club on the 8th of April, between 2-6pm for the occasion of David’s 80th birthday. He has requested no presents, but would love to see some old friends we hope you can make it! Rachel Heywood

Torrington Art & Music Festival 2018 Public Meeting

orrington Art & Music Festival will take place on September 14th, 15th and 16th this year in the square and there will be a public meeting to discuss it, and a great opportunity to see what you need and want from it. The meeting is at Torridge Vale Social Club on 19th April at 7pm and is open to the public, organizations and businesses so do come along to let us know your ideas and views. Also, if you are experienced at running projects there is an exciting opportunity as we have a paid role vacant to be the main coordinator for the event. If you are interested in running the festival and getting paid for the responsibility, then please contact Matt via info@hippymotors.co.uk.

Torrington Silver Band’s Easter Bingo

orrington Silver Band is excited to invite you to our upcoming Easter Bingo. On Saturday 31st March come along and join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street, Torrington. Doors will open at 6.45pm and eyes down at 7.30pm. We will have lots of fantastic prizes up for grabs, including chicken dinners and Easter eggs! There will be a raffle and refreshments will be available throughout the evening. As always children are most welcome and there will even be a game of bingo just for them, with a fabulous prize for the winner. Everyone welcome!

Giant illuminated numbers and letters for your birthday party, anniversary or special celebration. A great backdrop to any party and a brilliant photo opportunity!

Contact Alice 07881 920 169 www.partyilluminations.com

MAY FAIR & CARNIVAL 2018 Great Torrington May Fair The Square Thursday 3rd May 2018

vents start around 9am with a morning service and continue throughout the day. There will be floral dancing and country dancing during the morning, the crowning of the May Queen around 12 noon and the Cavaliers entertaining during the afternoon, plus much more entertainment for all throughout the day. Rowlands Fair will also be in attendance at Barley Grove Car Park.

Access for wheelchair users & disabled persons

Any wheelchair user/disabled person who wishes to come and see the May Fair celebrations are advised to be in the Town Square no later than 10.15am. We do try to keep seats for disabled persons outside the Green Lantern, which are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. Due to Health & Safety Regulations, it is very difficult to get wheelchair users/ disabled persons into the Town Square after 10.15am. Following the celebrations on May Fair day, help is required to put away the chairs that have been used. Anyone who is willing to help should meet in the Town Square at about 4.30/5pm. Any assistance we receive is greatly appreciated.

May Fair Rehearsal & Crowning of Torrington Carnival Queen The Square, Wednesday 2nd May 2018 Events will start at 6pm with Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School rehearsing maypole dancing and the crowning of the May Queen. This will be followed by a performance from STREETZ Dance Crew and then the crowning of Torringtonâ€™s Carnival Queen. Rowlands Fair will also be in attendance at Barley Grove Car Park. Natasha Batty, Secretary Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee

Great Torrington Carnival Saturday May 5th 2018

ntry forms for the Torrington Carnival are available from Xanadu, South Street Torrington, The Town Council Website & The Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee Facebook page. Please note: * All vehicles MUST carry the appropriate insurance. * No intoxicating drinks will be permitted on any of the floats or by walking entries that take part in the procession. * Please do not throw coins at the floats. Would all road users please note that various roads and streets in Torrington will be closed for a short time between 6- 8pm whilst the Carnival is proceeding through the town. Please bear with us but do expect some delay if your journey takes you through Torrington at this time. Natasha Batty, Secretary Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee

Do your trees and hedges need attention?

rees and hedges are an important part of our landscape, and appropriate management is often necessary to maintain their health and aesthetic value. For example, in a small garden crown reduction may be necessary to stop the tree from outgrowing the available space, or to reduce the weight of the tree to make it less likely to fail. Thinning may be valuable where trees are beginning to block out light from a window or outdoor space. Sometimes a tree needs to be removed completely, and perhaps a replacement tree planted wherever possible. Whatever your tree work requirements, ‘Andy Winsbury Tree Work’ can help. We offer a free quotation visit where we can discuss appropriate works and advise you of the best way to manage your trees and hedges. If you live in a conservation area, or your trees are subject to a TPO, we can also help you with the application process where necessary. I work with a team of highly competent and qualified arborists to deliver a top quality tree surgery service. We carry the appropriate public and employer’s liability insurance, so you can have peace of mind knowing that everything is covered. If your trees or hedges need attention, I look forward to hearing from you soon. Andy Winsbury, www.awtreework.co.uk

Library News Need Help With Your Tech Gadget?

ur Coffee and IT volunteer is available on Thursday mornings from 10am. If you would like some help or support with a device: tablet, iPad, laptop or mobile phone, please call in or phone the library on 01805 622107 and book a slot. Perry will be able to guide you through general or specific problems so you can make the most of your gadget. We have Royal Voluntary Service volunteers available to offer a home library service to those unable to make it to the library because of illness, disability or caring responsibilities. If you are someone, or know of someone, who would benefit from this service please contact us on the above number, pop by or email torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk.

Friends of Torrington Library

ongratulations to Torrington Library for hosting an incredibly successful animation workshop at half term. It was so successful there was a waiting list! We hope to be able to fund similar activities in the future. The Friends of the Library will be holding their AGM on 5th June at 2pm in the Town Council Meeting Room above the Library. All welcome. Come and see how you could help to support your local library.

Dog Grooming Salon Four Paws Parlour

teph the owner and stylist has a long background in working with animals, including an extensive 10+ years working for a local veterinary practice, and has always had a passion for being ‘hands on’ with animals. In September 2017 she set up the Four Paws Parlour dog grooming salon at a farm in Langtree near Torrington. Steph has college trained for two years, now becoming professionally qualified to the highest Level 3 in City & Guilds, also gaining an Animal First Aid certificate along the way. From the professionally fitted grooming salon, Four Paws Parlour can offer a variety of doggy treatments: from standard grooms to customised pet trims, for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Welcoming young dogs onto her introductory puppy package, allows your puppy to be slowly introduced to being brushed, then bathed and dried at a pace to suit him/her. Since recently opening, customer feedback has been very positive, with many happy returning dogs, ranging from Cockapoos, Terriers and a Bichon Frise, even up to a Newfoundland and several Spaniels. To find out more and make a booking, please contact Steph on 07977 602580 or see the website www. fourpawsparlour.co.uk

* Freelance Florist - Locally Based * Bespoke Wedding Flowers - Free Consultation * Beautiful West Country Seasonal Flowers * Special Occasions * Corporate Events * Funeral Flowers * Environmentally Friendly Funeral Tributes * Free delivery within 10 mile radius Tel: 01805 938946 Mob: 07533891380 • 27 South Street, Torrington, EX38 8AA Visit: www.tinahodgson.com Email: tina-hodgson@hotmail.co.uk

The History of Torrington Jewellers

n May 1991 I took over Torrington Jewellers at No.9, South Street in Netherne House. There had been a jewellers there as far back as I remember, when Harold Pointon owned the shop, and when I took over the lease there was a clause stating that the shop could only be used as a watchmaker and jewellers. Mr and Mrs Wright moved into the premises in the early eighties, after Harold Pointon had died, and ran it for a few years until they moved their enterprise to Devises. Mac and Martin bought it in 1987, not knowing the first thing about jewellery but a great deal about business, and stayed until 1991 when I began my venture there. The shop relocated to 14 High Street Heywood House, in March 2005, opening just prior to Mothering Sunday. Due to the extra space in the shop to accommodate customers, I had a queue of more than five people for the first time ever! Actually quite disconcerting! HQ Hairdressers previously held the lease at 14 High Street after Heywood House had been refurbished. The shop had formerly been part of the Town Council offices, and prior to that been Serendipity, a gift shop, a stationer, Sully and Co accountant and even, as one Torrington resident has told me, the place to take your ration books! Torrington Jewellers is now moving to the former Lloyds Bank building, 2 Fore Street. This grand building had been Fox Fowler bank from 1846 until 1922 and afterwards Lloyds, in various forms, until its closure in June 2017. There is much work to be done to bring the building back from its current neglected state, but I shall endeavour to be open in time for May Fair without too much disruption. It would seem quite fitting for a bank building, with its added security and very large vault, to be used as a jewellers! The residents of Torrington and the surrounding area have always been very supportive of our local businesses and I hope to see you all at the new premises. Liz Harris

Acupuncture - What’s the point?

Natural Path to Good Health. Acupuncture is a tried and tested, sophisticated system of medicine. The Chinese and other eastern cultures have been using acupuncture to restore, promote and maintain good health for over 2,000 years. Nowadays more and more people are finding this longestablished therapy an effective treatment for a wide range of health conditions, illnesses, disease and injuries. These can range from clearly defined complaints, such as headaches, migraine, back ache, arthritis, asthma, IBS, cystitis, period pain, through to more general feelings of ill health, such as nausea, low immunity, tiredness, insomnia, low mood. Ultra-fine, sterile, single-use needles are carefully inserted into specific points on the body which have the effect of stimulating the body’s natural self-healing mechanisms. Acupuncture aims to address the root cause of a condition and not just the symptoms alone. This approach can lead to a more permanent resolution of problems. I have 14 years’ experience as a fully qualified Traditional Acupuncturist, having gained my Licentiate in 2004 at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, accredited to the British Acupuncture Council. Whilst experienced in treating a very wide range of conditions, I have a special interest in anxiety and stress-related problems, women’s health, fertility and gynaecological conditions. I am committed to helping people through their emotional and physical difficulties to promote good health and enable them to live life well. Treatments available with Rachel Townsend at ‘the River Rooms’, 8A The Quay, Bideford. 01237 478899. FREE mini-consultations available to find out how acupuncture could help you. Or feel free to contact me directly on 07810 823109.

To support local businesses, it’s important that we ‘Think Local First’ whenever possible! If you would like your business to feature in these pages, please email Esther on torrington.crieradverts@gmail. com or call 07912 693 858

Learn floral skills with Tina Hodgson

re you interested in learning new floral skills? Tina Hodgson Fine Floral Design is running workshops throughout the year. * Buttonholes and Corsages - Saturday 28th April & 25th August 2-4pm £35 * Flower Crowns - Saturday 26th May & 29th September -2-4pm £30 (can be run in the evening as a hen party, with bubbly!) * Hand tied Bridal Bouquets - Saturday 30th June & 27th October 2-5pm £45 * Contemporary Decoration - Saturday 28th July 2-4pm £35 * Christmas Table Decorations - Saturday 8th December & 22nd December 2-5pm £35 * Wreath Making - Saturday 1st December & 15th December 2-5pm £35 All prices include tea, coffee, biscuits and cake. Gift vouchers are available should you wish to treat a loved one to a class as a present. Please call Tina on 01805 938946 to book.

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From Your County Councillor…

riting this article in the aftermath of ‘Storm Emma’, I hope that by the time you read this we’ll have seen off the worst of the weather and will have repaired any damage caused

by it! I would like to thank the teams from DCC Highways, as well as all the volunteers and community snow wardens who helped clear the roads in the aftermath of the storms. While I hope we do not experience such severe weather for a long time, readers may be interested to know that in such situations DCC’s Highways Operations Control Centre co-ordinates activity across the highway network. The Council’s aim is always to ensure that the necessary arrangements are in place across the road network and to ensure that vulnerable people can continue to receive support. Lessons can still be learned and I would be grateful for any feedback – good or bad – on how Highways responded, and I will pass this information back up to the teams. On non-weather related issues, you will probably have seen that Devon County Council has agreed a new Budget for the forthcoming financial year. DCC’s share of the Council Tax precept is due to rise by 4.99% - with 2% specifically allocated for Adult Social Care. I know that Council Tax increases are not welcome, however this rise helps fund an increase of 6.1% (£13m) in the Adult Care and Health Budget, and a 5.5% increase (£6.5m) in the Children’s Services Budget. In addition, there has been an additional £6.5m allocated to the Highways Budget. This will be used specifically to fund improvements to drainage, as well as patching and potholes. As I mentioned in my previous article, when the budget proposals for Highways were put forward to the Council’s Corporate Scrutiny Committee, I requested that more resources and funding was allocated towards improving drainage on the highway network, particularly in rural areas such as ours. This formed part of the Committee’s overall recommendations to the County Council’s Cabinet and I was pleased that it was subsequently adopted by the Council, not least as this funding was not part of the original Budget proposals. I have already had a meeting with the Head of Highways at County Hall to make sure that Torrington Rural gets its fair share of resources, and I am hopeful we will see more ditching, ploughing and gully cleaning work taking place. I regard fixing our drainage system as the highest priority for Highways; after all we can fix as many potholes as we like but it will be no good (and also a complete false economy) if the repairs are washed out by water on the road. Finally, I will also have access to a further £10,000 community grant for ‘capital’ projects, on top of the £10,000 Locality Budget that I currently receive. If any of you have any projects in mind then please do get in touch. You can ring me on 07886 446560 or email andrew.saywell@devon.gov.uk. Cllr Andrew Saywell

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Little Torrington WI

t has been a busy few months for the Little Torrington WI members. In December, members got into the festive spirit by making Christmas garlands and hanging decorations from garden greenery and plant materials. We had a relaxing and fun evening, made even more so by a delicious ‘bring and share’ supper complete with mulled wine. At the start of January we had a very enjoyable members’ evening with a skittles competition, games and social time. Jacket potatoes with a variety of tasty toppings were served. At the end of the month, many of our ‘ladies who lunch’ attended Weirmarsh Farm for a delicious birthday celebration lunch. A good time was certainly had by all. Last month we had a very engaging talk on ‘Playing History’. We were shown historical costumes and artefacts which help to recreate aspects of a historical event or period. We have also been updating and improving our WI web page. This is still work in progress, but we certainly hope to have much more information available soon. The Little Torrington WI meets on the second Tuesday of the month, at 7.30pm in the Victory Hall at Little Torrington. If you are interested in coming along you will be most welcome. For more information speak to our President, Sally Ramsden on 01805 623152.

Heavy Duty Gardening Compact Tractor & Loader Flail/Topper Mowing Rotavating, log sawing/splitting Wood chipping, hedge trimming etc. Garden overhaul and tidy Small/odd jobs done around the farm

Michael Harris, Petrockstowe 01837 811283 Torridge District Council Funded Loan Scheme

id you know Torridge District Council fund a loan scheme for homeowners, for essential home repairs and improvements?* For more information, visit www.wrcic. org.uk, call 01823 461099, or email enquiries@wrcic.org.uk. Wessex Resolutions CIC is a ‘not for profit’ lender working in partnership with Torridge District Council . Wessex Resolutions CIC, Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton, TA4 1EU * Subject to Status

An Arresting Performance at PROBUS

t the last meeting the speaker was a retired member of The Metropolitan Police, who spoke about the history of ‘The ‘Met’. The talk was not only illustrated in striking fashion, but demonstrated with examples of police uniforms and equipment through the ages. Truncheons, handcuffs, helmets capes and equipment were displayed. Volunteers to be ‘arrested’ were not too numerous following a demonstration of how the old style cape could be used to give a miscreant a ‘clout around the earhole’! A most informative and interesting talk, much appreciated. For membership enquiries please call Mike Evans on 01805 601166.

Torridge Increase Council Tax by £5 a Year

n 26th February, Full Council voted to increase Torridge’s share of the Council Tax by £5 for 2018/19; the equivalent of 10p per week but most Torridge residents will pay less than this. This means that Torridge’s average Band D Council Tax will rise from £153.66 to £158.66. It is proposed that the additional resources be directed to Economic Regeneration. Although Torridge collect the Council Tax, they do not keep it all, retaining

Council Tax rise has been necessary. Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Customer Services, Councillor David Hurley said: “Torridge is a low wage economy and across the district families are struggling to keep up with the cost of living. That’s why it is so crucial that Councils do as much as they can to help. We do operate under increasing budgetary constraints but we are determined to do all that is possible “The bulk of Council Tax receipts to limit the burden on our Council Tax continue to go to Devon County payers. Financial reductions from Council, which has already voted Central Government and changes to the to increase their share of the method that that payment is delivered Council Tax by 4.99%...” bring ever increasing pressures to local Councils to provide a balanced budget. I around 9p out of every £1. The bulk believe that the relatively small increase of Council Tax receipts continue to go in the Council’s share of the Council Tax to Devon County Council, which has will help secure the balanced budget already voted to increase their share of and financial security of this Council, the Council Tax by 4.99%, plus the Fire and thus ensure that the service and Police Services have also increased provided to our Residents and visitors their share, so despite Torridge meets the expectations that they hold.” only adding £5 to the bill, our local Torridge are still providing flexible communities will unfortunately still face payment options to local residents increases of around £85 in their Council in order to pay their Council Tax on Tax this year. time and when it suits them. Council Local residents, businesses and Tax payers throughout the district can communities are at the very heart of opt to pay in either 10 or 12 monthly everything Torridge District Council instalments, thereby helping them does, and the Council continues to to manage tight household budgets. reshape the way we will be working in Torridge also offers additional payment the future and to achieve a balanced dates each month: residents can opt budget and effectively manage the to pay on the 1st, 7th, 15th, 21st or 28th of impact of significant reductions in grants each month. from central government, this small

• WHAT’S ON IN GREAT TORRINGTON •

What’s On in Great Torrington? At a loose end? Need to find a new hobby or activity? There should be something here for you! If you run a sports club or community activity in Great Torrington or the surrounding area, or the exisiting information we have needs amending, please send details in to: torrington.crier@gmail.com. Monthly diary events are on page 12, making it easier to find what’s on!

LEISURE, HOBBIES & ENTERTAINMENT (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Plough Workshops: every Monday: Yoga 6:30-8pm; Folk Orchestra 7-9pm; every Tuesday: Yoga 2:30-4pm; Adults ballet 6:30-7:30pm; Ploughcappella 7:30-9pm; every Wednesday: Adult English Class 6:30-8:30pm; Latin for Beginners 7-8pm; Tai Chi 7:30-9pm; every Thursday: Sapta Dance 11am-2:30pm; Tai Chi 2-3pm. Writers Group 7:30-9pm (first Thursday of the month), Life Drawing Sessions 7:30-9pm; every second Thursday Open Mouth Music & Poetry 8pm; every Friday: Sarah Anne Westcott School of Dance 3:30-7:30pm; every Saturday: Plough Junior Jazz 11am-1pm; Plough Youth Theatre 9:45am-5:15pm Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4pm Doug 01805 622648 Beryl 01805 624294 all welcome (every second Saturday) Tai Chi 12.30pm every Thursday, all abilities welcome. Contact Ageing Well on 01805 622666. £2.50 donation Cribbage pairs comp, third Wed of the month, Torrington Arms 8pm Tarka Pottery Adult Pottery Classes every Thursday in term time:10-12 noon, 1.30-3.30pm and 7-9pm 07931 306 414. Every Tuesday in term time: 10-12 noon and 7-9pm t: 07931 306 414 Papercrafts & scrapbooking club every Thursday 7-9.30pm, The Owl Barn Studio, Little West Hole, Newton St Petrock EX22 7LW, £2 per session, bring your own project or try something new, contact 07853 319 250 or owlbarnstudio@btinternet.com English Folk Dancing 8pm every Fri @ Northam Village Hall with Bideford Ceilidh Club. Info John 01237 476632 Writers Poets & Listeners every first Thursday 7.30pm Conservative Club Tarka Valley Railway. Volunteers meet every Thursday from 9am till about 3pm at Torrington Station (the Puffing Billy), unless weather is appalling. Variety of tasks. 07881

SUPPORT & FRIENDSHIP GROUPS Singing for health, for older people, those with dementia and their carers. 10am-12.30pm, Torrington Community Hospital. £1 donation per session. For details call 01805 622666. (First & third Wed of the month) Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Wed of the month 10.30am-12.30pm @ Phase 1 Common Room, Ethelwynne Brown Close, East the Water Bideford Men’s Shed: Football Club, School Lane 9am-12.30pm. Come and see us in action, every Tuesday & Thursday. Contact Dave on 07759 783 001 Memory Cafe 10.30am -12.30pm, Methodist Church at the top of Mill Street. Every second Thursday

The Castle Community Centre Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Now available for hire!

A multifunctional room with garden, based at Castle Hill, Torrington Ideal for private parties & group meetings. • Adjacent to public car park • Self contained kitchen facilities available • Wifi (coming soon)• Catering by Café @1646 • Regular bookings welcomed • Competitive rates For booking rates & details contact Susie and John Golightly 07917 651 938 Genesis (Great Torrington) Ltd, Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Tel: 01805 626100 (Admin office Tues, Wed & Thurs 9.30am–12.30pm)

905 260. Bingo at St Giles Parish Hall, eyes down at 7.30pm, last Thursday of the month Torrington Craft Group, every Monday 1-4pm in the Methodist Church Hall £10 per month or £3.50 per session including refreshments, Jeanne Singleton 01805 622650 Torrington Silver Band practice Mon & Weds 8-9.30pm @ Howe Concert Hall Nick Megson 01805 622150 Cash Bingo TVSC 7.30pm every Mon Hobbies Arts & Crafts Group Langtree Parish Hall every Tues 10.30-12.30pm £1.50 inc tea & coffee Sylvie 01805 601485 Probus Club meets at the Black Horse, High Street, Torrington, 10am. Every fourth Thursday. Torrington Rotary Club meet weekly on Tuesdays at Torrington Golf Club (6pm for 6:30pm) - Secretary David Large on 01769 560556. Prospective members, and members from other Rotary Clubs most welcome. Learn Bellringing for free: Most Mondays 7.30pm at Monkleigh Church and Wednesday, 7.30pm at Torrington Church, contact - Clive Ward 0771078 885 or monk2364@icloud.com Art on Friday meets every second and fourth Friday at The Plough Arts Centre 10.30am-2.30pm. New members always welcome. Contact Hazel 01805 623757. Great Torrington WI meets second Wednesday of each month excluding June (outing) & August (picnic). 7pm at the Methodist Rooms. Visitors & new members welcome. Phoenix Line Dancing Club. New beginner/improver line dance classes at Weare Gifford Village Hall Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm. All ages and abilities welcome. Ian 07833 720 050 or Marilyn 07825 278 405

Email: genesis@great-torrington.com

Torridge Gingerbread Group, every Monday, 10-12 noon, Bluecoat Centre, Beach Room (usually) email: torridgegingerbreadgroup@outlook.com or find us on Facebook. U.S. Social Group. Get out and meet new friends. We meet every Monday at 8pm @ the Panniers in Barnstaple (Weatherspoons). The age range is 40 plus. Varied interests including skittles, dancing, meals out etc. Mixed social group for people on their own. ‘Hearing Loss Support Group’ Social group for the hard of hearing. Every third Tues 2pm @ The Bickford Centre. Call 01271 373236

REGULAR CHURCH SERVICES

Gt Torrington Parish Church Services: Thursdays 10.30am Said Mass, Coffee morning 11am-1pm; Fridays 8.30am Said Mass; Sundays 10am Sung Mass with Sunday Club Encounter. Modern worship, exploring faith, meeting with others. Encounter God. Great coffee and cakes.7pm High Bickington Community Centre. Every second Sunday. Catholic Church of the Holy Family – Mass every Sun 9.15am Torrington Methodist Church, please see diary section.

Grosvenor Church Torrington, Bluecoat Junior School 4pm, with an exciting children’s programme, refreshments at 5pm. Every Sunday. Sunday Brunch (Grosvenor Torrington Church) Every 1st Sunday 10.30am - 12noon Bluecoat School Hall. Food and fun for all the family! Tim 07798 670 754. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bradford Village Hall, Holemoor, Bradford, Holsworthy, EX22 7AB. Sunday Sacrament service at 1011am Torrington Baptist Church, please see diary section.

HEALTH, SPORT & FITNESS (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training above TVSC, Mondays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 11+ 7.15-9pm seniors; Tuesdays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 8-11, 7-8.30pm ladies boxfit. Wednesdays 6.30-8pm carded boxers only; Thursdays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 8-11, 7-8.30pm ladies boxfit; Fridays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 11+, 7.15-9pm seniors Running club every Monday & Wednesday at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm every Wednesday Wendy’s Fitness for Life classes every Thursday at the Scout Hall Gas Lane 07787 607 322 Slimming World Join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street. Every Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Lisa 07515 256 965. Every Thursday 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm. Norah 07789

632 166. Junior Golf Training every Sat 9-10am @ Libbaton Golf Club Dolton Weight Loss Group every Saturday from 9.3010.30am in the small village hall. Contact Mary 01805 804421 or Emma 01805 603999 Fitness with Friends: Castle Community Centre Torrington, gentle exercise class, every Monday weekly in term time, 2 -3.30pm, £3 donation, 01805 622666 Badminton Club every Tues 7-8pm juniors, adults 8-9pm @ High Bickington Community Centre 01769 561387 Short Mat Bowls 2-4pm every Mon & Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre. Indoor Short Mat Bowls club night every Monday from 6.30 in the clubhouse at the Bowling Green, Castle Street. All welcome.

CHILDREN’S CLUBS, TODDLER GROUPS & PRE-SCHOOLS 1st Torrington Rainbows at Torrington Rugby Club every Monday term time 6.15-7.15pm l torringtondistrictguiding@ talktalk.net 1st Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall every Mon term time 6.30-8pm Kathryn Masterson 01805 623212 torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net 3rd Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall, every Wed term time 6.30-8pm Emma Keil torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net Beaford Guides at Beaford School Tuesdays term time only 7.15pm till 8.45pm Bridget Wade 07830 797 050 or email BeafordGuides@outlook.com Beaford Rainbows will meet at Beaford school on Tuesdays 4.15 till 5.15pm for more information please contact Leanne 07842344302 or Email rainbows@girlguidingbeaford.co.uk Beaford Brownies meet at Beaford School on Tuesdays 5.30pm till 7pm contact Bridget Wade on 07830 797 050 or email beafordbrownies@outlook.com 1st Torrington Guides at Torrington Rugby Club every Tues 7-8.30pm Linda Masterson 01805 623212 1st.torrington. guides@gmail.com SCOUTS IN TORRINGTON - All Scouts groups meet at the Scout Hall, Gas Lane. Contact for all groups is Kirsty Pells on 07887 557 574 or email kirsty.pells@btinternet.com 1st Torrington Beaver Scouts (age 6-8) meet during term time on Tuesdays 6-7:30pm. 1st Torrington Cub Scouts (age 8-10) meet during term time on Tuesdays 6-7:30pm

1st Torrington Scouts (age 10-14) meet during term time on Monday 7:30-9pm. Youth Club for 11+ 5-7pm @ High Bickington Community Centre ALLSORTS Children’s Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 6.30-8pm. School years 1-6. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 ALLSORTS Plus Youth Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 8-9.15pm. School years 6 and upwards. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 Little Otters Baby & Toddler Group, every Friday, 9am11.30am, at The Clinton Hall, Merton Little Fishes Toddler Group at Baptist Church every Thurs term time 9.30am -11.30am £1.50 per family. Jill 01805 624387 Toddler Group 9.30-11am every Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre Torridgeside Saturday Football Fun Club - 10am - 11am in the Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School MUGA. Every Saturday. Little Frogs sessions Mon – Fri 8.45am-3.45pm term time, Gas Lane, Torrington, contact - 07870 509 674 Little Otters Pre-School, at The Clinton School, Merton MonThurs, 9am till 3.30pm, with lunch club 12–1pm, term time. For more details 01805 603357 admin@clinton.devon.sch.uk

Easter Hall Park Stables Lizzy’s Larder

You will be sure to receive a warm welcome when you visit Blackberry Farm. In our tearoom you will ﬁnd some of Devon’s ﬁnest Entry is FREE produce, with beautiful Dartmoor views. Open 7 days a Our traditional family run farm shop is full of week. 01409 261440 delicious homemade food, local crafts and gifts, and Milton Damerel don’t forget to visit our friendly animals or join us on one of our farm tours. Nr Holsworthy Visit: www.Blackberryfarmshop.co.uk EX22 7NP

RIDING & CARRIAGE DRIVING LESSONS FOR ALL ABILITIES & AGES • Small groups or private lessons • Fully licensed and qualified staff • Indoor and outdoor schools

LIVERY • DIY, GRASS, PART & RETIREMENTS Petrockstowe, Devon, EX20 3HP, 01837 810350 www.easterhallpark.co.uk

6-7.15pm

Please call WENDY on 07787607322 or email wendy.cox@btinternet.com Class includes optional weigh in, motivational talk and 45 minutes of Zumba Fun

Diary

To place an entry in the diary, please either email torrington.crier@gmail. com, call 01805 603152, or write your entry in the diary on the Library counter. Organisations are responsible for advising of changes to entries.

April 2018 Sunday 1st

Plough Workshop: Storytelling Circle 2:30-5:30pm Torrington Baptist Church 10:30am Easter Celebrations. Egg hunt, buns & bacon butties, fun and crafts. Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Roy Harris, 6.30pm Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion

Tuesday 3rd

Plough Comedy: Modern Cautionary Tales for Children 4pm; An Evening with Murray Lachlan Young 8pm Plough Talk: Salt Cod pop-up Talk and Tasting with Felicity Sylvester 6pm

Wednesday 4th

Plough Films: Coco (PG) 3pm; The Mercy (15) 5.30pm; Dark River (15) 8pm Plough Music/Poetry: Simon Millward, Tony Wade and Frances Corky Thompson (In The Gallery) 8.15pm

Thursday 5th

Plough Folk: Andy Irvine 8pm Tarka Valley Railway volunteer working day every Thursday

Friday 6th

Plough World/Jazz: The Dime Notes 8.30pm Tarka Pottery Spring bird house decorate with leaves & bugs book online

now www.tarkapottery.co.uk 07931 306 414 Bingo at Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes down 7.15pm

Saturday 7th

Coffee morning in aid of the North Devon Hospice 11am-2pm St Giles in the Wood Sports Club. Huge prize draw, bottle tombola, cake stall, secret auction and much much more! Plough Exhibition until 12th May Benedict Rubbra Plough Film: Coco (PG) 11pm Plough Talk: Henry Blofeld Farewell Tour 7.30pm Breakfast rolls, coffee and cake 10am to noon, meat raffle, 1st prize £25, 2nd prize £15, takeaway available. In aid of Weare Giffard Village hall refurb/rebuild.

Sunday 8th

Plough Films: Finding Your Feet (12A) 3pm; Dark River (15) 5.30pm; Lady Bird (15) 7.30pm Plough Blues/Soul: Julian Piper and Dave Peabody (In The Gallery) 7.30pm ‘Walk and Talk’ around Berry Castle Iron Age Settlement, 2.30pm Keith 01237 475168 Torrington Baptist Church 10:30am Preacher Dick Chamings Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Elsie Potter, 7pm Concert at Lake, Newton St Petroc Choir Tarka Valley Railway come and meet the volunteers, behind the Puffing Billy 11am-4pm

Monday 9th

Plough Workshop: Lino Cut Workshop 10am-3pm Plough Films: Early Man (PG) 11am; Coco (PG) 3pm Children’s author Tanya Landman at Northam library 2pm. Booking essential 01237 475111.

Tuesday 10th

Plough Films: Coco (PG) 2pm; Lady Bird (15) 8pm

Wednesday 11th

Great Torrington WI Honeybee Floral Art Methodist Rooms 7pm Plough Films: Early Man (PG) 2pm; Coco (PG) 5pm; A Fantastic Woman (15) 8pm Plough Music/Spoken Word: Jan Baker, Robert Barber and Peter Clarke ‘Swann Songs’ (In The Gallery) 8.15pm

Thursday 12th

Plough Films: Early Man (PG) 3pm; Finding Your Feet (12A) 8pm Plough Open Mouth Music and Poetry Night (in The Gallery) 8pm Plough Blues/Soul: Maggie Bell and Dave Kelly (The George Hotel, South Molton) 8pm BINGO at Beaford village hall! Doors open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm. Bar, tea and coffee available. Free parking and cash prizes. Second Thursday of every month

MAY CRIER COPY DEADLINE 12 NOON TODAY Friday 13th

Plough Music: Eleanor (in The Gallery) 8pm Plough Magic/Comedy: James Phelan 8pm

Saturday 14th

Plough Films: Coco (PG) 11am; Winchester (15) 8pm Quiz at Taddiport Village Hall 7.30pm teams of up to 6, £3.50 per head byo refreshments 01805 622594 Beaford Village Hall Market 10.30am to 12.30am tasty breakfast baps, coffee and cake and a chance to buy from a

range of stalls. Car washing £5. New stall holders welcome, please ring 01805 603199 or 01805 603046 for details.

Sunday 15th

Plough Theatre: The Pantaloons ‘The War of the Worlds’ 4pm Clovelly Dykes hillfort visit with the Friends of Berry Castle 10.30am register interest to berrycastle1@outlook.com Torrington Baptist Church 10:30am Breakfast Special Topic Ascension Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion, 6.30pm Rev Rob Blackhall

Monday 16th

Plough Workshop: Printing Workshop 10am-3pm Plough Film: Winchester (15) 8pm

Tuesday 17th

Plough Film: Red Sparrow (15) 8pm

Wednesday 18th

Plough Film: The Most Wonderful Evening of My Life (nc) 8pm Plough Folk: Ross Couper & Tom Oakes (in The Gallery) 8.15pm Royal British Legion meeting at Conservative Club 7pm

Thursday 19th

Driscoll The George Hotel, S Molton 8pm

Sunday 22nd

Plough Films: Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist 3pm; Red Sparrow (15) 7pm Plough Folk: Charlie Dore with Julian Littman (St Anne’s Arts and Community Centre, Barnstaple) 7:30pm Torrington Baptist Church 10:30am Holy Communion preacher Dick Chamings Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Nancy Hall Tomkin, 6.30pm Julia Spencer

Wednesday 25th

Antiques and Collectibles Valuation Day in aid of Children’s Hospice South West, at RHS Gardens Rosemoor 10am6pm.

Thursday 26th

Plough Film: Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist 8pm Plough Music/Spoken Word: A Retro Musical Soiree (In The Gallery) 8.15pm

Friday 27th

Plough Folk: Calan (The George Hotel, South Molton) 8pm Plough Comedy: Gein’s Family Gift Shop Volume 3 8pm

Plough Film: Red Sparrow (15) 8pm Torrington Festival: meeting at Torridge Vale Social Club at 7pm

Saturday 28th

Plough Comedy: Richard Herring 8pm Bingo at Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes down 7.15pm

Sunday 29th

Friday 20th

Saturday 21st

Plough Workshop: Photography 10am1pm Plough Blues: Giles Robson band + support from Jim Crawford 8pm Plough Folk: Nick Wyke and Becki

Plough Comedy: Gein’s Family Gift Shop Volume 3 (The George Hotel, South Molton) 8pm Plough Americana: Andrew Riverstone (In The Gallery) 7.30pm Torrington Baptist Church 10:30am Preacher Magnus Proctor Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Professor Roy Sambles, 5pm tea at Thornhill Head followed by Methodist women in Britain service.

Monday 30th

Plough Talk: ‘The true story of North Devon Savages’ with Peter Christie (St Anne’s Arts and Community Centre, Barnstaple) 7.30pm

Abbeyfield

he residents enjoyed a visit to The Burton gallery in Bideford to see the exhibition of Torridge schools’ art and a trip to St John’s Garden Centre. Our spring coffee morning is on Tuesday April 10th from 10.30am-12pm at Glen Tor, Villa Road. There will be stalls and a raffle. Please put the date in your diary and come and meet the residents and staff, all the proceeds go into the residents’ comfort fund. Do you know anyone who might like to find out more about living here in the future, with our friendly and active residents? Why not ring our house manager on 01805 623605 for a chat and perhaps arrange a visit, or speak to her at the Coffee Morning.

Join us for Easter Fun at Torrington Baptist Church

n 1st April at 10:30am it’s Easter Celebration time, join us to celebrate our Risen Christ. Why sit through a service as usual when you could join us on Easter Sunday morning at 10:30am? We aim to really celebrate the fact that Christ rose from the dead, with food, crafts, songs and story-telling. Come and go as you please between 10:30am and noon and have fun in Church.

Spirit Unleashed Pilates

Stretch & Relaxation Classes in Yarnscombe

Mondays ~ 9am-10am • 10.15am-11.15am Tuesdays ~ 9am-10am • 10am-11am • 11am-12pm For details & booking contact: Sue 07896 326 024 Email sue.spiritunleashed@gmail.com

bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their

brightly-lit floats, inclu

R.PITTS

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General Garden Maintenance Garden Fencing Mobile: 07775 096657 Hedge Laying Call David Lock Stone Walling R.PITTS on 01805 603 541 Pergolas Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

Caruso Torrington Enrico in Bloom

even is earlier times: to Church? the Roman Howinearned Old the Parish millions of dollars in royalties

achieve some bumper crops this summer! Cherry Hammon, Chair 01805 625788

Henry ‘Father’ Willis (1821-1901) for Sherwell Congregational Chapel in Plymouth in 1864. In 1989 Sherwell planned to get rid of the organ during alterations to the church and it was dismantled and rebuilt at Torrington church where it is much treasured.The present vicar is Peter Bevan. Moira Brewer

th Devonian dialect is strung across the November there will be a On the 16 festival of Flora, goddess of fruit and square – Torrington isaid known as a th lunch at Barnstaple in of ACWW, from the retail sales of the resulting here has been a parish church in Torrington for at least 750 years. The ome(25 of you will 10 1873 February Year have –been flowers. This tradition, symbolizing rebirth friendly townth and this is no better th Women of the the Associated Country 78rpm discs. 1902-1903, he oldest partsInrelevant ofItaly the in present from thethan 13 atand have noticed thatto write is particularly to usbuilding today, datedisplayed the14 Maycenturies. Fair. In this era August 1921)a per2ndasked World, of which the WI nationally istoa cut five batches of records for the In 1510 theour rectoryofand advowson Great breathing new Henry life intoVIII thegranted winter of social isolation, of the May Torrington Fair provides the tree suasive review about a Part 2 Silver Birch member. Not widely known, the G r a m o p h o n e a n d T y p e w r i t e r community. medicineofofChrist friendship, inclusion and Wolsey, who appropriated them to histhe foundation Church, Oxford, What a great shame there are for noCardinal at Windy Corner has fairbeen or festival ACWW has representatives from many Company. He was laterwith heard live from Moreover, in keeping the spirit of support. The fair encourages community 1549 the perpetual curates (more recently called vicars) have been digital mastered recordings of Caruso.and since their GCSE English felled; this was because it was assessment. infested nationalities; working relief for of the stage ofchildren the Metropolitan Opera rejuvenation, areChapter the focalof point life as the young and oldtowards join together One cannot imagine how around wonderful hisappointed by in the Dean and that College. isfungus, Charlotte’s timely reminder with Here honey especially poverty and sickness, promoting health House theMuch first public radio of the festivities. against Mr Gove’s the common good. What better way is voice was. The olderwishes, rectory had been atschools Priestacott the road to Huntshaw Mill), when of one such fair treasure. and advancing education. It’sbut down-tobroadcast in 1920. the roots and base of we the should trunk. In fact, better Torrington’s are (offthere to bring neighbours together? Caruso’s 25-year career, stretchingMargaret of Richmond the Manor ‘she pitied longfarmutual path the to earth approach offers support In the next I will you of about closed to issue allowbecame full tellLady community People comethe from andthat wide in autumn 2016 there was an eruption from 1895 to 1920, included 863rector and practical help to women and some of his operatic roles. had from the church’ and in 1491 presented to the rector, Thomas Burswell, participation. What could be more enjoy the delights of May Fair. They also Sending Out a Mayday of theappearances actual fungi all around base York at thetheNew communities across the which world.stands then good listening than watching thehouse crowning their money with them! The fair and appealing hisUntil successors her manor andofland.bring The present vicarage, Our Spring Fair of theFor tree, and the roots that were Metropolitan Opera before he died of the May Queen? The procession of boys replenishes coffers of the and townthe – To find outthe about the ACWW Torrington’s toon this site, dates from 1841. Bob Dymond exposed at we the allow surface. I know ittradition isHis fame anCan infection at the age of 48. and girls in brightly coloured costumes providing a Institutes welcome boost to the local Women's nationwide, visit During the Civil War, at the Battle of Torrington in February 1646, there was an dwindle? hassad lasted to athe present despite always to see lovely tree day, having would melt any heart. Ribbons rippling, economy – such a help in difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk Torrington W.I. What picture comes and into promotional your mindexplosion in the church which some and destroyed of theas an limited marketing to bethe felled but, sooner rather than skirts skipping and the bandkilled blasting: the200 people Businesses use about the part carnival Any queries Torrington W.I. when you think of Torrington’s May Fair? Our Annual Meeting will take place avenues available to him. He was, building as well as many of its records of other events. Restoration work was carried maypole is ceremoniously woven. opportunity to advertise their wares. later,For it would have posed a hazard as it th ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on many it is the image of the maypole, November. We will on Wednesday 9 nonetheless, a client of Edwardout in 1651. Just asThe the lower colourspart on the maypole are tower Charities alsothe benefit: collection of the old south survived explosion whiletins the are 01805 623588. succumbed the infestation. laughter toand sunshine; it would be beFair electing new Bernays during the latter’s tenure as aupper intertwined, so the May breaksadown soonhad full previously to overflowing. part and the spire disappeared. The church had a leaded difficult to imagine Torrington without Unfortunately, the little bed where the it. President and social barriers Yet it is often argued that historic celpress agent in the USA. Publicity inbroach spire, similar thas it appeals to the 14 century spires of Barnstaple and Braunton. A second Yet today, our badly historic traditionand is Great Torrington tree grew has been trampled committee the to everyone. Choirs,for dance ebrations are archaic and anachronistic. Caruso’s time relied on newspapers, under threat. It is easy to allow spire was erected which and remained at least untilOn 1786 but, at some time before following year, Town Hall Project so the expected spring display of bulbs groups majorettes all the contrary, Torrington’s festivities particularly services, the pressureswire of modern life tomagazines,1830, it was blown downtaking bystage: a gale. The remaining oftime the was In converted aa look back Bypart thethe this report appears in take to the feast for revitalise old spire traditions. the current that had been planted will probably photography and the telephone. slowly strangle our cultural at and allinears. we old have into the curious cupola shown the engraving 1830, a will bell hung theand the eyes Local climate of with apathy, laziness The of Crier, you have onnoticed Caruso’s biographers, Pierre Key, not now materialise. Some of the heritage. In this fast age of dignitaries are spire happily the been May lifts our spirits experienced in 1830s the last year and then scaffolding has putthe During the a new was builtindifference, at the western end Fair of church, by Bruno Zirato and therein Stanley Jacksonoutside. hardyhigh-tech perennials planted gadgetry, mass have pelted in Cock. the of stocks and and Torrington into a vibrant getting aWalter sneak preview speakers up totransforms facilitate the repair local builder Brown The old south tower was converted into a transept attribute his fame not only to his voice media and instant survived and we have rescued some subjected to and duckings. The community. Despite the continual for 2012. Cups prizes will of the roof make theput and seedlings musicianship, to a keenand, booked gratification, there is but little time grow after 1864, it accommodated the schoolchildren and and seating was in for Honesty to pot up also and has awho lavish development of modern be awardedMayor for those didlunch, best to in building water-tight fortechnology and business sense andmatters: an embrace ofthat purpose. left for what really In 1938 the seating was removed and the transept spent was furnished many are invited. The increasing on. Itcommunity won’t be long before this bed will optional which monthly competitions, and the winter. time It will be at computer Today, more commerciallife. sound recordings, then inas a our side chapel and memorial to thefor late the Rev. Frank Emlyn-Jones, who town crier be bellows as hevicar,screens, last year’s look than splendid again. there will, of course, time tea enclosed in waterproofrecord-breaking ever, it Many is essential to its infancy. well-known opera proudly marches the streets turnout shows there still aworking place forarea live served asa parish priest from 1894-1934. It is named the Chapel ofisStthe James after the and natter. Bykeep now, the ‘School Potato sheeting to protect our historic celebration alive. Our singers of Caruso’s time rejected the of Being his predecessors and The Torrington entertainment. Given the choice of demolished chapel of Torrington Castle. rather nifty at getting through and to minimise any risk to the internal week of annual festivity Competition’ for Year 4 of the Bluecoat phonograph (gramophone) andfosters their Silver Band pulsates like the beating playing a video game or participating in the business side of things, we will also The inside of the church feels large (107ft/33 metres long) and bare. The fine friendship, a sense of belonging and a fabric. At the same time, a series of have been lost a under result, but CofEvoices Primary School will beas well heart of the community. the buzz of the fair, I know which I would link withsingers our past.including We cannot let this Patti, die. roof is manage a bit of time to welcome Bob photoelectric panels will be installed, to of the waggon-shaped pattern typical of this part of England. The pulpit, with other Adelina way, and we hope for a better return The grand finale of the May Fair week choose… As you walk the cobbled streets of ourits carved Brewer, who will us the reduce running-costs, and perhaps and gilded lions’ heads, 17ththe century work. of During the Francesco Tamagno andwell Nellie is the cherubs carnival, a give spectacle of low-down light and is typical Today, new enemy a large-scale this year than last. Webreathe have overMelba ancient town, you antiquity. The on the Cavaliers. provide an income for the project by exploited the new technology once sound. Fanciful floats journey through the townbox event is were ‘Health and Safety’. As restoration of 1860-64 (when the old galleries and pews removed) the 70 pupils to cater for and May Fair links present-day Torrington We whilst start the at 7pm in are the lined Methodist sellingcrowds surplus power to thebeNational they became aware of the success ofpulpit town streets with discarded. huge gather, it rescued could argued was moved and the sounding-board Someone later the Nigel hadtransporting a tricky timeusofto a bygone withStark the past, Church Hall, and prospective members Grid.there is a danger of an accident. cheering children. the packed towngavethat Caruso’s recording sessions. sounding-board from aInbuilder’s yard and it Although to the Victoria and Albert Museum era – when life wasequal simpler. it purchasing enough, sized are veryyou welcome visit for Any this all work being carried square, have noto choice but free. to mingle Nowadays, with theisridiculous rules Caruso made more that 260 extant Torrington has hosted the annual May in London. It remained there until 1960 when the Mayor of Torrington, Colonel J. E. to newmake members paying their subs this potatoes to go round, and wefor thank out by the Townlands payment and new friends. and regulations it is Trust, a struggle recordings in America the Victor Fair since 1554. However, manyPalmer, arranged formonths its return to the church. month, get the price of will be taken from funds set aside ‘Uz be 14 plaised to for zee ee!’ The organise anything. In this age for of Duffy’s HomeMachine Hardware forhave helping us Talking Company, (later RCA celebrations in England their origins The Willis organ is one of the finest organs in the West Country. It was built by is in 12. How about that! Mayor’s welcome banner in thick countless litigation, our town hall the project, which would have included from 1920, and he out! Victor) Let’s hope you1904 Year to 4 students

Easter Hall Park Stables Petrockstowe

Riding & Carriage Driving Lessons Beginners - to - Advanced Qualified staff - Fully licensed Indoor & Outdoor Arenas Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams or 810350 01805 622556 Phone 01837

es. er to call for emergencies ged.

14 Players ington

This month! 'Hobson's

of them too but it would far exceed my quota of words. If you want to see pictures of our last show or a list of previous productions, visit www.torringtonplayers.com

RHS Rosemoor to Host Line-up of Live Entertainment

osemoor Live! consists of a whole variety of live entertainment, sure to appeal to many different audiences, including music, theatre, comedy, talks from TV presenters and children’s shows. For the first time in Devon, and probably the whole of the South West, we have drive-in movies too. Music includes, The Cory Band, The Fisherman’s Friends of Port Isaac, The Chamber Ensemble of London, Georgie Fame, and tribute bands ‘And Finally… Phil Collins’, and The Bootleg Beatles. In May BBC Countryfile’s Adam Henson will be discussing the state of UK farming and talking about his latest book as well as tales from his life, including his agricultural trips to places like Australia, New Zealand, California and Canada. BBC Gardener’s World presenter Adam Frost will be at Rosemoor for the first time when he will be guiding you through his landscaping projects including his home featured on the program. Comedian Mark Steel and award-winning restaurant critic and TV’s Masterchef judge Jay will be visiting in May. A first for Devon, Rosemoor will also be holding a drive-in movie event on the 7th April, showing two iconic movies: ‘Brassed Off’, starring Ewan McGregor and Pete Postlethwaite, followed by the legendary Rocky Horror Picture Show, starring Tim Curry and Richard O’Brien. In association with the Plough Arts Centre*, we’d also like to announce five magical outdoor theatre performances for kids and adults alike. Immerse yourself in shows with stories from both classic and modern-day authors, from Emily Bronte and Robert Louis Stevenson to the hilarious David Walliams: * The Winter’s Tale,* 31st May * Wuthering Heights,* 22nd June * Pirates of Penzance,* 7th August * The Midnight Gang* by David Walliams, 9th August * Treasure Island,* 14th August More information, can be found on the Rosemoor website rhs.org.uk/rosemoor and ticket prices and booking link can be found below or contact the Rosemoor Box Office on 01805 626810 or via email at rosemooradmin@rhs.org.uk. Visit: gardentickets.rhs.org.uk/rhsrm/sessionseating.aspx?tid=22 The Plough events highlighted with an * need to be booked via the Plough Box office 01805 624624 or via www.theploughartscentre.org.uk. Normal garden admission applies, which is free for RHS members. For more information on events visit rhs.org.uk/rosemoor.

The Winkleigh Singers at St Michael’s Church

he Winkleigh Singers’ programme starts with a concert on Saturday 21st April at St Michael’s Church in Great Torrington. Handel’s Coronation Anthem was composed for the coronation of King George II and Queen Caroline in 1727. From Mozart is the 4 movement Exsultate Jubilate, and the spine tingling Laudate Dominum from the K339 Vespers. Haydn’s Little Organ Mass is for chorus, soprano soloist and a virtuoso organ part. The concert concludes with 16-year-old Mozart’s Regina Coeli. The soprano soloist for this concert is Donna-Marie Broomfield. At the age of 25 she decided to have singing lessons and within six months had landed her first principal opera role. Since then she has performed with various opera companies throughout England and Europe, and the choir is delighted to present her wonderful singing at this splendid concert in Great Torrington. The organist at St Michael’s Church is David Read. After being sub-organist at Sheffield Cathedral, he spent the rest of his career as Director of Music at various schools and colleges around the country, and now in early retirement he has been able to return to the focus of organ playing. This wonderful concert is on Saturday 21st April at 7.30pm and tickets are available through choir members, via the website www.winkleighsingers.org. uk or on the door, if available on the night.

Little Otters Pre-school

Little Otters Pre-school offers a fun and safe environment for 2 –5 year olds to learn and play. We accept Early Years and 2-Year-Old funding. If you would like to come and visit please contact Dolton Primary School on 01805 804315. www.tarkafed.org

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opportunity to Methodist ask & Northern We also need volunteers to help with depending on the season, may well be British Native Wild Flowers to Grow in Your Torrington Church 10.30am Rolle Canal Devon Saturday 13th e locations for these supporting the café andAdvice its customers flowering at thewith timeGeoffrey of the walk. Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Surgery Cox MP. Garden - Trollius europaeus Waterways Society Guided Walk so if you can spare two for hours a month The start of the at Annery Morgan an appointment ring walk 01237is459001 or e don’t often see this lovely native growing in the The new season's programme of then please get in touch. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Hartland Church Hall Kiln, on the Weare Giffard road email to tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox or via by th it is more commonly wild in this part of the country, Sunday afternoon walks starts on Brierley 26 In April Annie is coming toBridge, at 2.30pm on Day Saints meet @gracing Bideford College www.geoffreycox.co.uk Woodland Vale Care found our gardens with website itsHalfpenny elegant, cupped May with aBideford, visitread to EX39 the site of the th short stories and poems which Abbotsham Rd, 3AR Coffee in aidThe of Wembworthy May. distance is little Sunday 26native on flowers inPlane variousatshades ofThis yellow. Trollius is, inMorning fact, Inclined Ridd. is the should a lot of Alps, memories frombut and Sunday Sacrament service atinvoke 11.50amChurch Chulmleigh Town Hall to 9-11am over a@ mile with plenty looktoat Arts Centre, Bideford to northern and central Europe, from the the Auvergne the Pyrenees, place where thethe Rolle Canal 1pm past. If you, a loved one or friend cakes, produce, draw prizes appreciated and discuss is likely to take a northern Britain, Wales occasionally Northern Ireland, usually on higher ground was'Hitchcock' raised up(12A) about 43aand feet Film 3pm @ The has memory problemMajor then Walker let couple themMCofCeremony War hours. A@donation of sometimes at lower levels. Memorialbut Hall, from the valley floor nearabout the Café Memorial Plough know - everyone article) £2is (see toof its the Rolleand Canal The common name is Globeflower because of the11am shape flowers, it Weare to welcome. a Film 'Argo'Giffard (15) 7pm @level The Plough Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30pm details Society's funds will be is a member of the buttercup family. The ‘petals’ are actually sepals which curve rthamComedy Hall 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall information in athe side of circle the valley For further contact Doug 01805 622648 or Berylpetals 01805 appreciated and at helps in around the actual, inconspicuous, strap-shaped d like8pm anyprotective further that could be maintained Pauline Page 01805 625969 or email 624294 the centre, and in the wild are an attractive shade of lemon-yellow. It is a hardy enable the Society to keep ut any of all the way inlandon the Film 'Great Expectations' 7.30pm @flowers perennial, growing totopaulinepage123@btinternet.com a height of approximately 25-60cm (10-24ins) and the volunteer work going to please Monday 8th High Bickington Cinema head weir at May Rosemoor. appear from to August. promote and maintain features of Jones, Historical AGM & Talksseen 'Beam in damp Music Coope Boyes & Simpson @ Many Society people will have Meditation Trollius europaeus prefers growing bog Future gardens and8pm themeadows, Rolle Canal. walks this year y (01237 House & Quay' & John Oatway The Plough this site on previous walks but this year th th Therewoodland, is a weekly meditation class streamsides and in open so should our climate in north 28 July and 18th willbebeideal 16 forJune, Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @ there have been developments over every Thursday in the dance studio at further details if required: Devon. August. For Methodist Church Sunday 14th the winter willThe make it well worth anotably There arethat cultivated forms available, Trollius x cultorum ‘Alabaster’ which Plough Arts Centre, 6.15-7.15pm email: hassallc@ymail.com or phone on Memory Cafévisit. Film 'Wreck it Ralph' 2pm @ The Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am repeat The(PG) Heritage Lottery has fine, creamy-yellow flowers that are is tinged with green and which is probably Meditation a way of 01237 425357, but you'llMrs probably have café Plough seems be Journey’ Rev Peter Whatton 6.30pm Vivienne funded project has to the mostto‘Life's popular variety, and one called ‘Orange Princess’ with golden-orange learning torelax leave aand message. Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough ength-to-strength with Sheriff producedTrollius a new from the creatively flowers. canpathway also be grown from seed sowntointhe spring. respond ChrisMass Hassall Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough ers every month. Michael’slife Church 10am Sung Fleur Tarka Trail down to the bottomchallenges of the St. which Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room day fell on Valentine’s at us. It can also Inclined Plane where two throws illustrated 9th 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm & 7pm @ ebrate Tuesday we had a duet Our Hedgehogs Need You!!!!!! reduce stress. Film By learning to information boardshelp havetobeen installed Film 'Lincoln' (12A) @ The Plough The Plough ng ballads as wellYouth as 5pm WHAAM Concert Westward Ho! & Appledore Hedgehog Awareness Week is on its meditate we find by space in our busy to 'Hitchcock' describe the saltmarsh habitat Filmdecorations. (12A) 8pm @ The cuits and th with ourselves way but why wait until then to lives to get in touch and the Torridge and theFriday workings Music Showcase, 20 and April 6-10.30pm Plough Monday e which helped raise help? As 15th spring is here develop awareness of what is going on purpose of the Rolle Canal. It is now Pier House, Westward Ho! ome of The the costs. Singing for and hopefully the weather@ High in ouramind and better in the world around Fun us. 7.30-8.30pm possible to gain far Wednesday Bickington Community Centre fortunate again to HAAM get 10th Youth Concert representing North Devon’s youth improves our spiky friends If we think of finding happiness, inner of Said theMass lay-out and Mini Mover Dance Session Michael's Church 8.30am for under 5's fromStunderstanding the Devon bands, singers and choirs will be performing in aid of will be up and about again. peace, as a state of mind then workings of the inclined plane boat lift 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington St James Chapel Community d whichin will help us to the RNLI’s Appledore Lifeboat Station. The concert will been that an extremely tough meditation can help us toIt’s achieve than wasW.I previously theHall case. Torrington @ Methodist 7pm Theyouth Centre elop the service we showcase the talents of North Devon’s bands, singers and choirs,The featuring a winter for them. goal. upper basin of the canal at the top of 'I Wish' (PG) 8pm @ The Plough le whoFilm have memory broad spectrum of music from rock ’n roll to folksy and individual singers from youth I teach two complementary practices, changeable and wet weather the incline has been cleared of scrub Tuesday 16th John Portman who put one which focuses on the breath and theatre groups, senior schools and colleges and pantomimes. has made it difficult for many to11th enable the outline of its 'Hearing for You' Social group forofthe work Thursday tosufficiently secure this other which focuses on thefoodopen Theretowill also bethe aseen, Grand Raffle aid of the RNLI. Doors at 6pm and the them to find or hibernate properly banks be clearly and the in way hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tues 2pm @ Church Said Mass ntionedStinMichael's last month’s emotions. I have been meditating for a over the past months so many are now entertainment will run from 6.30 to 10.30pm with a short break at 9.05pm for the the railway subsequently cut through The Bickford Centre call 01271 373236 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by moving away from the number of years and weak learnt the and need help. If you know raffle. the northern destroying the top of Youth Club High Bickington Communitythat cellend, in vicarage ed to Walsingham recruit another practices with thedetails Triratna Buddhist you had a resident hedgehog in your For further information, contact are John Barton email: johnbarton007@ Cafe 10.30-12.30pm The now the incline. canalour@ basin Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pm aiser. Memory If anyone is ThisCommunity, a movement which has please area year don’t to put gmail.com, tel: 07725 056population 094. Ticketsof£6 Badminton Adults,last children freeforget from Café Clubunder16 7pm Juniors 8pm supports post Plough then pleasean getincreasing adapted Buddhism in a away that is bowl of water and some food out Adults @ Bickington Community Centre for Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Food,(aKitemark-Surf Italia The Co-operative & Kite Shop of Westward EarlyPizzeria, Purple Orchid and Twayblade them, placing it inside a feeding station Cribbage pairs competition @ Torrington Beast 2pm @ The Plough Ho! and Market Street Kitchen On the door or on Facebook: www. green flowered orchid) of Appledore. which, Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The ArmsEngineers 8pm facebook.com/WHAAMShowcase/. The Sound are Phatdog Events – Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film Dean Kersey and Steve. Plough note early start for long film

Hickfords Property Services CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Wednesday 17th Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon

EMAIL: davestegg@hotmail.co.uk

(this could be as simple as a£1.blue Tarka Valley Railway News £2 per child – under 1s £1 – siblings mushroom turned upside down pringcrate has arrived they say; Price includes healthy snackso & drink for with a 10cm x 10cm hole cutand in one of the children & hot drink adults let’s hope thatfor the ice Rebecca Leach 01769 685. the short sides and560 a weight snow inflicted upon us byonthetop)

which should stop local combined forces of ‘Theany Beast from cats the Thursday 18th enjoying free meal. (not East’ and a ‘Storm Emma’Cat willbiscuits be distant Stmemories. Michael's Church Mass fish flavour) are even anSaid ideal food the to put in Don’t mention 10.30am in St James Chapel the feeding station but please never ‘Pest from the West’! Music Gaga: Rock Anthems 8pm @ The bread and milk as it can make them We only lost one working day Plough seriously ill. because of the weather, work continued If you find a hedgehog out during the in clearing and burning the mountains Friday 19th day, wobbling and unsteady or you’re of brash left over from trail clearance. Stworried Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am about one that visits your This has resulted in many favourable in garden, St Jamesplace Chapel the hedgehog in a high comments from trail@ Survey bottle Gig 'Zion box Train' 8pm The sided with ausers. hot Plough water work revealed a minor landslip wrapped in a towel and coverwhich with the Saturday 20th will have be dealt One itofup ourwith cloth thatto you usedwith. to pick Music Bob Fox 8pm The new has@ started re-pointing thenvolunteers please ring any ofPlough the following the make whoplatform will beedge, morewhich than will willing to the give Sunday 21st approach much tidier. advice or take to one of the local vets. St. Fettling Michael’s 10am Sung Mass of Church Torrington Cavalier  British Hedgehog Preservation Ignatius Sunday Club in upper roomhas continues; a temporary fuel tank Society Methodist 01584 890801 Torrington Church 10.30 been installed, cleaner replaced  North Devon air Hedgehog Rev Ken Morgan 5pm Circuit Rescue Service @ and the instrument panel full 01271 816989 or 07964has 522a 359 Parkham complement of dials and switches. AnniRamblers Nicholls Torridge afternoon walk The451820 new season is fast approaching, 01237 Torridge Hedgehog Rescue with'Les more remedial work continuing Film Miserables' (12A) 3pm @ The (working with ND Hedgehog on theRescue) brake van, and Progress Plough Angela Hodge was Film 'I Give a 486 Year' (15)the 7pm The in started up itand run509 for first@time 07884 Plough several Please weeks. look out for events in A noteyour for thearea diary:during on Friday April Hedgehog Monday 13th, we are22nd hosting a talk to the 11thPuffing May. Awareness Week 5th at Mini Dance Session for under 5's BillyMover by Combe Rail (Ilfracombe Branch 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington Project) 7 for 7:30pm. Tickets at £3, Pets AsatTherapy Community Centre to include a buffet; in the Pets Alistair As light Therapy is available a8pm @ The Comedy McGowan carriage on Thursdays or in the Puffing national charity founded Plough Billy. in 1983. It isPete unique in Trio Gallery Gig The Canter Follow us Facebook for up to that it @ provides therapeutic 8.18pm Theon Plough date and latest photographs. Do visitsnews to hospitals, hospices, nursing also a 23rd look at our website and take care homes, specialwww. needs Tuesday schools a variety other venues Youth Cluband for 11+ 5-7pmof@High tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk Bickington Community Centre Rob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm Adults @ High Bickington Community Centre

St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Wednesday 24th ee eJames inFrSt Chapel stim St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am friendly ad ates & Short Tennis vice HNC @ High Bickington in St James Chapel , NVQ and InstituteCentre 4.30-5.30pmProviding for 5+ quality but of WCommunity Short Tennis @ Highaffordable Bickington ood Prese rving & Legion 3rd Weds of every Royal British Damp -Pro Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+ ofing accountancy and taxation services. month @ GT Conservative Club qualifi7pm Film 'Fire in the Blood' (PG) 8pm @ The ed Film 'No' 8pm @ The Plough Plough Atherington Acorns, fun, friendly group www.pgdaccountants.com Gallery Gig 'Judith Christie & Diane for parents & children aged 0-5 Thursday 25th Hickford 623376 Calvert Contact 8.15pmColin @ The Plough C.S.R.T—Tel 01805 Tel: 01271 268082 Mob: 07810 448 618 9.30am-11am @ Atherington Pavilion St Michael's Church Said Mass Mob: 07976 936 465 Email: hickford208@aol.com every Wednesday term time.

today pleaseWorks  Damp Surveys & Remedial  Woodworm & Rot Treatments Friday  Kitchen 12th & Bathroom Design & Fitting StMichael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Property Maintenance in St James Chapel  Extensions Theatre Scottish Falsetto Puppet  Landscaping Decking Theatre 7pm @&The Plough

10 16

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Get Together Friends Dates for April Enrico by volunteers with Caruso their own friendly,

th Monday – theand film 1873 atvaccinated the – temperament-tested (25th16 February Plough will be ‘Finding Your nd dogs and cats. 2 August 1921) Feet’ at 2pm. Entrance over £3.5022,000 to include Since it’s beginning PATa Part 2 cup of tea/coffee andregistered a slice of cake. dogs have been into What a great shame there are the no *Tuesday 17th – lunch will be theyear Pets Asmastered Therapy scheme. Every digital recordings ofatCaruso. Royal Exchange, 12.45how for some of these retire and1pm, new£7.50. dogs, One cannot imagine wonderful his Contact Marcia or Val for menu choices, having first been examined and passed voice was. booking andtemperament, payment. onCaruso’s health, suitability and 25-year career, stretching stability grounds, As Therapy. Please1895 be aware thatPets although Marcia from to join 1920, included 863 Today are currently and Val try there very hard accommodate appearances at tothe Newaround York 4,500 active visiting dogs 108 members thatPAT wish to sit together, Metropolitan Opera before heand died of PAT cats at work in the UK. Every sometimes it is just not possible. The an infection at the age of 48. His fame week theseGet friendly dogs and idea Together Friends is to hasbehind lasted tocalm the present day, despite cats givechat more thanpeople, 130,000 meet and to new so people, please the limited marketing and promotional both young and thethe pleasure and avenues available to him. He was, be patient and try old, to help organisers. chance to cuddle and talk to them. The nonetheless, a client of Edward We cannot guarantee that you will sit bedsides that are each year Bernays during the visited latter’s tenure as a with your friends. number a staggering half our million. press agent inattending the USA. Publicity The numbers lunches in Sick patients feel and Caruso’s time often relied on isolated newspapers, has been steadily increasing. Our last even the most withdrawn seem to open particularly wire services, magazines, lunch at the Black Horse was attended up and let theand barriers down when their the byphotography eighty diners and wetelephone. have decided regular Pets As Therapy visiting dog is Caruso’s biographers, Pierre Key, that eighty will be our maximum for all around. These dogs bring everyday life Brunolunches. Zirato This andwillStanley Jackson future be a first closer and with not it only all onthe attribute his fame to hishappy voice come basis. associations for them of home and musicianship, but also to a keen *Sunday 15th -constant Beetle Drive at the comforts. companionship business The sense and an embrace of Bickford Centre in South Street. Nogives of an undemanding animal, that commercial sound recordings, then in admission charge, but remember bring unconditional often one to of the its infancy. love, Manyiswell-known opera something for the ‘bring and share’ tea. most missed aspects of their lives. singers of Caruso’s time rejected the Spaces limited, so you must reserve Pets Asare Therapy was formed to help phonograph (gramophone) and their your seat. make this bearable voices haveloss beenmore lost as a result,and but Thankrecovery. you to the Black Horse for Patti, speed other singers including Adelina Buttons the Pet Nellie As Therapy hosting our was lunch in first February. Francesco Tamagno and Melba in North Devon and Josie the first in There will be an afternoon Table Top exploited the new technology once Torridgeside. There have been Sale the Torridge Vale Club onof theyatbecame aware of Social the success th results with the Read2 outstanding Saturday May. Tables are limited. Caruso’s12 recording sessions. programme in our schools, whichextant has GetCaruso your booking in early. made more that 260 no sponsorship conditions and has There is noinjoining fee for recordings America forGet the Victor helped children tomust learn to read. Talkingmany Machine Company, (later RCA Together Friends, but we have all The dogfrom acts as onatofile. non-judgmental Victor) 1904 1920, and your contact details Marcia andhe listener and offers comfort to those

Bluecoat Primary School Pupils Awarded On the 16th November there will be a earned millions of of dollars in royalties Art Certificate Merit who find reading stressful. Great Torrington

at Barnstaple aid of have ACWW, from the retail sales the resulting luecoat Primary School is Lanes pleased tolunch announce that Year 1inchildren Come and see us atof Green Memory Café th the Associated Country Women of the 78rpm discs. In Italy in 1902-1903, he been awarded a Certificate Merit from The Burton Art Gallery in Bideford, May Shopping Centre on Sunday 19 of March’s memory World, of fish. which the WI nationally is a cut fivefor batches of records the 10-30am-4.30pm. Enquiries; K for Moore their magnificent sketches and paintings of These were drawn as café went with a member. Not widely known, the G r a m o p h o n e a n d T y p e w r i t e r 01805 624739 NorthofDevon Area Copart of their ‘Harvest the Sea’ topic. buzz despite having ACWW has representatives from many Company. He was later heard live from th Ordinator PAT. On 20 February the Arts lead and Assistant Headteacher went along with to cancel working the towards relief of nationalities; the stage of the Metropolitan Opera some of the Year 1 artists and their families to receive this award, on behalf of all activity. poverty and sickness, promoting health House in the Farmhouse, first public radio East Woodlands the Year 1 children, and had the opportunity to their workeducation. proudly onIt’s display. Asee presentation took place for John and advancing down-tobroadcast in 1920. Alverdiscott, Open Garden Bideford’s Deputy Mayor presented the awards and said how proud the Gallery Portman who has now retired from earth approach offers mutual support In the next issue I will tell you about This garden will behigh opening was to of celebrate such qualityforartthe work from schools in the locality. Mrs being our Volunteer Fundraiser and and we and the practical help to women some his operatic roles. second time as part of the National Harris (Assistant Headteacher andth lead for Early Years) said, “Wethe are exceptionally are still trying to recruit for this post, so communities across world. Until then good listening and Garden Scheme on Saturday 8 art proud of our work of such awould high quality which was if you like to be part of a th children for producing To find out about the ACWW and the Bob Dymond Sunday with 9 of June from 2-5pm created such skill2013 and attention to detail.committed Bluecoat Primary has always valued team of volunteers to Women's Institutes nationwide, visit each day. the importance of the arts in helping our children develop learn; this award then www.theWI.org.uk this and valuable service Torrington W.I. NE of provide Five miles has ensured that our children now more thanplease ever really do see themselves as also get in touch. We are Any queries about Torrington W.I. Our Torrington, Annual Meeting will take place Great five miles south of artists. The confidence and pride instilled from creating a valued piece of artwork th looking for volunteers to help with ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on November. We will on Wednesday 9 B3232 Barnstaple off the at Windmill memory café – if you can spare two impacts on other areas of children’s learning such as their vocabulary, as well as 01805 623588. be electing a new Cross along one mile of single track hours a month then please contact me. developing perseverance and road. Postcode EX31President 3PPand resilience”. We isare looking forward to this Whilst the Burton Art Gallery schools’ exhibition now closed, the Bluecoat Great Torrington for the Richard and Ann committee welcome you to month’s meeting where Annie Brierley Primary café – ‘The Coffee Pod’ – will be exhibiting work from various classes following year, their sculptured gardens, extending to Town Hall Project at will there be isreading short stories Bluecoat rest The of thegardens academic year, and an open to the and taking a look were back just overfor anthe acre. By the time this invitation report appears in poems. This will invoke memories and community see atfrom all this. we have created into come 2006and a blank The Crier, you will have noticed raise discussions and should be a very The ‘Coffee Pod’ ofyear the Bluecoat Years Teaching Centre) experienced in the(part last and then Early landscape and have been transformed scaffolding has been put is open enjoyable activity. to the general public for lunches on Wednesdays to Fridays, serving a selection getting a sneak of speakers into a hidden oasispreview of swaying grasses, up to facilitate the repair Dementia Awareness week takes of delicious dishes andwill booked for home-cooked 2012. Cups and prizes spectacularly architectural bamboos of the roof and make the place in May. Along with the be awarded for those who diddrinks best in refreshments. A self-service hot and cool-to-hot terraces. Little garden building water-tight for Alzheimer’s Society we are planning to our optional monthly rooms create hiddenatcompetitions, gems where the the winter. It will be machine is available all other timesand as have an information giving presence in there will, of and course, bethetime for access. tea visitor sit enjoy tranquillity enclosed in waterproof well as can computers with free internet the town square on Thursday 23rd May andthe a natter. of garden as ithas blends with of the The Teaching Centre a number roomssheeting to protect the working area so do come along and find out more. Beingtireless rather at getting through rolling, views. Aconference pond area and to minimise any risk to the internal available for hire,nifty including The theme of this week is “Worry the business ofdelegates. things, will more also (unfenced) and still wein its fabric. At the same time, a series of facilities for upside to 40 For changes nothing. Talking changes manage a please bit ofstages, time to welcome Bob developmental provides an photoelectric panels will be installed, to information contact 01805 622333 Brewer, will give us the area of who shade gunnera and bog to everything”. reduce running-costs, and perhaps and a member offor our team will low-down be happy May’s café meeting will be on on the Cavaliers. plants. A potager’s delight. provide anthincome for the project by help. Thursday 9 when David Clinch will be We start 7pm and in the Methodist Entry costsat £3.50 teas will be selling surplus power to the National playing guitar and pipes to entertain us Church Hall, and prospective members available. There will also be plants for Grid. Val can be contacted at the Bickford business. The Club phone number is all. Do come along and join in the fun are very welcome to visit for free. Any now sale. Although this work is being carried Centre on South Street, on Wednesday Marcia’s 875 as well asmobile beingnumber able 07881 to access new paying their subsEast this 846. For members further information about out by the Townlands Trust, payment mornings between 10am and noon. relevant information and discuss month, get garden 14 forhome theopen price of Woodlands and others for will be taken from funds set aside for Remember thatmonths Marcia’s phone concerns with professional NHS staff. 12. How that! the National Scheme the project, which would have included number is about not to Garden be used for Club visit Contact: Pauline Page 01805 625969 www.ngs.org.uk

17 117

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General Garden Maintenance and join us for a glass of wine Come Garden Fencing Hedge Laying at the launch Call David Lock Stone Walling * *541 ** R.PITTS on 01805 603 Pergolas www.locksbeamfarm.co.uk - 12.30pm Saturday 4th May 10.30am Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio email: tracey@locksbeamfarm.co.uk Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

in the Plough Gallery

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Building Contractor All types of building work undertaken Renovations - New Build - Extensions Barn Conversions - Roofing - Plastering “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Damp proofing - Timber Treatment

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23 your evening will be Hestercombe Gardens. marshalled by our volunteers along all nd n Friday 2 February, some of you may have noticed activity in In April we have a coach outing to routes to encourage and ensure your Torrington’s Rack Park. the Cornish Flower Show at Bocconoc safety at all times. There’s a walk for This was day one of an Estate. We are delighted at how everyone, from five to 18 miles! ongoing involving quicklyproject the seats have RHS been taken and Delicious refreshments will be provided Garden Rosemoor, are now prayingTorrington for decent weather. at the end of your walk, Stagecoach in Bloom Grosvenor On the (TIB) homeand front we will be hosting a will once again be on hand at the end Church, to initially renovate thefrom other quiz with our ‘adversaries’ to ferry you back to your starting point. twogardening rectangular flower beds on clubs in the area. This year, we are hoping to provide Our speaker in May, Tuesday 7th at entertainment along the way and more the upper slope below the viewing 7.30pm will be Howard Wills, locally ‘themed surprises’ by some of our seats. the have keeper a National Collection of marshalls! We fourofHorticultural Sempervivums and Jovibarbums. He Nightwalk has proved to be very Apprentices; Alex, Cordelia, Tim will be sharing with us the plants he popular and we hope this year will be and Ollie and as part of their found on a visit to Madeira. better than ever. So make sure you ongoing development, they have For more about the Society ring Sally rally your friends, family and taken on this project with the Ramsden, on 01805 623152, email colleagues, and get your registration intention of dedicating a day, sallyramsdenindevon@hotmail.co.uk forms in fast, along with your entry fee. three four or or turn uptimes to athroughout meeting at Torridge Feel free to photocopy the forms and theVale yearSocial to restore, Club..re-plant and pass them around to friends and maintain the planted areasSally in Ramsden family, or you can register and pay onthis striking south facing corner, line at www.nightwalk.co.uk. Please note that the £10 ‘Early Bird’ entry fee nestled within the Torrington Nightwalk 2013 remains the same till 1st April and community. Get ready for another thereafter the fee will be £15, so Initial work carried out included: Nightwalk to remember please get your entry in fast! th removing the weeds from the on Saturday 18 May beds, digging them over, leg assessing 2013…and a new near the condition of Photo credits: top David Squire, bottomatRichard Wilson Spring Has Sprung theHolsworthy! wooden edging and seeing what plants remain is now inschemes its seventh fromNightwalk previous planting andyear, decidingLittle Torrington and we arewould hoping willsaving. sign up for The snowdrops have whether they beyou worth what everyone is acomplete memorable lovely, the primroses Once the abovetells workuswas and oldbeen plants removed, a number of night rest assured we’ve ordered fine are out and the daffodils attractive shrubs remained and the decision was made to spread them across weather and a lovely sunset! bank ata the topstructure of the two borders to add a degree of symmetry on andthe to provide basic in This will be an unforgettable evening, Hill approaching the own support of the future planting plans. Finally, aMile top dressing of Rosemoor’s with an atmosphere full of anticipation, village are about to burst into a compost was applied to both beds toMany enrich the soil and keep the weeds at bay. memories and camaraderie. magnificent display of spring colour. The next phase, to take placedress around mid-March, is to replace Nightwalkers wore fancy last Spring Fever hasthe hit wooden the Victory Hall edging addwas another layer of compost beds. We are already planning year and which a wonderful feature; to both as well; new fireproof doors to the and are liaising TIBon and Grosvenor aboutcupboards plants to be planted the whether you with decide fancy dress orChurch storage have beenfor installed future. not, you are warmly welcome! in order to store the Parish Records If you are passing through and we are at work, then please say hello and ask about what we are doing, we are always happy to chat. Richard Wilson - Formal Garden Team Usher, formerly at As always, Torrington RackHead ParkGardner Community Project

Build

Tel: 01805 62444 Mob: 07812 0671

829

Great Heritage safelyTorrington for future generations. The committee is now working hard Museum - Could You Help? raising funds for some bright new

elp is curtains to give the hall a fresh new look. urgently Whyneeded! not come and join in the fun on We have April started Friday 26th (7 for 7.30pm) when onwe theare big celebrating clean up St George’s Night. and changing all assured of a warm You will be thewelcome displays and fun-filled evening with hot foodis and everything goingentertainment. All for £7.50 (See diary for details). well, buteach. we really do need some new Torrington Uncovered volunteers to lighten theAload us NewforBook regulars. Could My book aboutyou Torrington is finally on its way! possibly spare a couple of hours, just it as series of onceI ahave week,written to help put theamuseum questions that newcomers are to back on its feet? Come and meet likely us and ask about Torrington and its learn all about the interesting history of surroundings thea very answers, Great Torrington. and We are happy of varying length and detail, to those bunch trying to put the museum together questions. There are 64 sections on asdifferent a main tourist for the town. topics attraction and over 160 black and The Museum has had a marvellous white photographs. I hope that, as well letter support afrom the for current Master as of providing guide visitors, this of book the Worshipful Company Glovers. will contain plenty ofof material that They goingtototownspeople. lend their expertise to is ofare interest helpI us startlike a small gloving workshop, to would to take this opportunity all theand local people sothank that visitors children canwho have helped me write thiswere bookmade, by giving understand how gloves and of their time, thegenerously expertise will not be lost.providing If you areme information lending metotheir anwith ex-glover pleaseand come and talk us, photographs. Everyone I have the museum really does need yourspoken help to has shown an interest in the project We are all determined to have the and I have enjoyed talking to you all. Museum open for Uncovered May Fair Week, Torrington willso abe few more helping hands will be fantastic. available from the weekend following We areFair, working thelaunch museum May afterinthe on on Saturday Tuesdays, the Plough. and Thursdays 4th May atWednesdays from 10.30am to 12/12.30pm. Come on Moira Brewer give it a go! Look forward to meeting you. Val Morris, 01805 622306

A new book...

TORRINGTON UNCOVERED by Moira Brewer

Come and join us for a glass of wine at the launch Saturday 4th May 10.30am - 12.30pm in the Plough Gallery 23

The Tricky Period

taff at Northam Library have been inspired to take on an initiative developed by Norfolk Libraries to tackle period poverty in our communities. The issue of period poverty has been highlighted in various articles recently, and shockingly there are many women and girls who are unable to afford sanitary protection. Women and girls who then have to find their own, often insufficient alternatives, like toilet paper or stuffing socks. Unsurprisingly girls can feel unable to attend school for the worry of bleeding onto their clothes and find it almost impossible to talk to anyone for the shame surrounding both periods, and lack of money. There are women who simply cannot afford sanitary products for themselves because they are trying to survive or feed a family. To tackle this difficult situation, The Tricky Period project will run in selected Devon Libraries with initially Northam, Appledore, Bideford and Torrington Libraries taking donations of any spare sanitary products from the public. Once there is a sufficient amount, packs can be organised to be given freely, with no questions asked, to anyone in need. It is hoped that if successful all Devon Libraries would offer this service in time. The aim is to improve the health of low income/homeless women and girls, and work with local organisations and schools to maximise the benefits. By highlighting this issue we can help to dispel some of the shame, by recognising period poverty in our area and making these necessary products accessible. As an integral part of the community that supports well-being and education, the public library is particularly well placed to take on this necessary initiative, and we hope you will support us by donating products or simply by spreading the word in your community. Please contact Northam Library (01237 475111) if you have any queries.

Antiques & Collectibles Valuation Day at RHS Rosemoor In aid of Children’s Hospice South West

t is with great pleasure that Torrington Rotary Club announces an Antiques and Collectibles Valuation Day, in aid of Children’s Hospice South West, at RHS Gardens Rosemoor on Wednesday 25th April 2018 from 10am-6pm. Our expert valuers come from two of Britain’s leading specialist auctioneers; Dominic Winters Auctions of Cirencester and Cavendish Philatelic Auctions of Derby & London. Both companies are giving their services without charge. Booking is optional, but preferred, via the RHS website- see www.rhs.org.uk/ gardens/rosemoor/whats-on or entry at the door. Entry including one valuation is £5pp, (£10 for an extra three valuations). Please note that after your valuation your programme will then give you FREE entry to the Rosemoor Gardens. Torrington Rotary would like to thank RHS Rosemoor and both auction companies for their support for this very worthwhile charity. C.H.S.W gives high quality care to children with life-limiting illness, and their families, at a difficult time. As President of Torrington Rotary, I would encourage you to support this great event; not only can you have the benefit of professional valuations but also the opportunity to check out that ‘treasure in the attic’. Why not make a day of it? Spring will be in the air and it will be an ideal time to visit the superb Rosemoor gardens. We look forward to seeing you there. Ray Harris, President, Torrington Rotary Club

Dog Training Classes at Taddiport Village Hall

Puppies, Teenagers and Adult Classes for all skill levels Trainers formerly from Puppy Gurus Nurturing the bond between you & your canine companion through force free, positive training For more information please call Rachael: 01409 282814 thehavendogcentre@gmail.com

Fleur’s Gardening Forum How to Create a Prize-Winning Hanging Basket

hoosing a hanging basket can be difficult because there are so many different styles and sizes available. Select something that looks pleasing to the eye without plants in it, especially from underneath; if your baskets are going to be hanging above head height, they need to look reasonably attractive when someone glances up. A word of caution here, once the baskets are filled with plants and compost, they can be very heavy so make doubly sure that any fixings are strong enough to hold the basket in place and this includes the chains or plastic hangers attached to the basket. For baskets which are not solid or ready-lined, you will need to choose a decent lining material. Moss is an old favourite and can be purchased from garden centres at a cost; you can use moss from your garden if you have enough but it can contain bugs and pathogens. There are also biodegradable liners, and coir (which is really good but is rather attractive to birds… they like using it for nest building!). For annual bedding plants a general purpose compost is probably best since it usually comes with added fertilisers and sometimes water retaining chemicals. If you are planning to grow perennials in your basket, you may need to add some John Innes’ No. 3 to the mixture, but this can make the basket much heavier. Water retaining crystals are really useful, but make sure to follow the instructions

to the letter or you may end up with a basket that resembles something from a horror movie! Regular watering is absolutely essential, especially as the plants grow and fill out to cover the soil. Most baskets are hung close to or under the eaves of a house in hot sunshine and you may need to water twice a day, irrelevant as to whether rain has fallen. I often see once beautiful baskets looking sad after just a few weeks because the owner hasn’t bothered to water it thoroughly. Feeding is also essential, most composts contain enough fertiliser to last about six weeks, after which you will have to feed regularly with a good, general liquid feed, such as Tomorite. Even if you have put in your own slowrelease fertiliser, this will also run out of steam in a tightly planted basket. Some plants will need regular deadheading to maintain a longer flowering season. The size of your basket will determine how many plants to purchase, eg: a 14” basket will take 9 cascading Pelargoniums, a 12” basket will take 7. For Fuchsias a 12” basket will take 5-7 plants and a 15” basket 7-9 plants. Have a look at the ready-made baskets to see how many plants have been used. Whether you have purchased plants or grown them from seed, it is very important to remember to harden off the planted basket before placing it in its final position. If the plants are quite

small, they may also need to be grown on before you plant them into the basket; planting a tiny plug into a large container can cause the plant to be ‘overwhelmed’ and possibly die off. Fleur

Live Jazz on the MS Oldenburg Friday 15th June

ortham Lodge are hosting a fundraiser on the MS Oldenburg on Friday 15th June from 6.30pm. We will leave Bideford Quay for a two-hour sailing around the Taw Torridge estuary. The wonderful Alan Lewis All Stars Jazz Band has been booked to entertain you, and you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy alongside a fully licensed bar. Tickets cost £16 (adult), £8 (child) and can be purchased directly from our website at www.northamlodge.co.uk.

buy books from our charity bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their

through the village, a brightly-lit floats, inclu

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“BUILDING & RENO www.yourgardencare.com

The Importance of Vaccination For Cats

l l l l l l

16 uring their early weeks, kittens viruses called Feline Calicivirus and in even earlier times: to the Roman are usuallyCaruso protected by an Feline Herpesvirus. is less fatal but earned millions of Itdollars in royalties Enrico festival of Flora, goddess of fruit immunity passed on by their isfrom highly infectious to other cats resulting and and th the retail sales of the (25 February Year 10 1873 have –been flowers. This tradition, symbolizing rebirth mother. However, as time progresses can cause permanent to the 78rpm discs. In Italy damage in 1902-1903, he nd is particularly relevant to us today, asked to write a perAugust 1921) 2 this will fade and the kitten will need to cat’s sinuses. Symptoms include:for the cut five batches of records breathing new life into the winter of our suasive review about a Part 2 its own develop immunity. unusual G r a m otiredness, p h o n e runny a n d eyes T y pand ewriter community. What a great shame there are no fair or festival for He was later heard from Kittens can have their first vaccination Company. nose, sneezing, high temperature, Moreover, in keeping with thelive spirit of digital mastered recordingsassessment. of Caruso. their GCSE the conjunctivitis, stage ofchildren thesalivation Metropolitan Opera from nine weeksEnglish of age. They and rejuvenation, are the focal point One cannot imagine how wonderful his Here is Charlotte’s House in theMuch first public radio will need a second timely reminder occasional coughing and of the festivities. against Mreven Gove’s voice of onewas. such fair should treasure. broadcast in 1920. better wishes, Torrington’s schools are vaccination threewe weeks pneumonia. Caruso’s 25-year career, stretching In the next issue tell community you about closed toCats allow full later when is included 863 that Idowill recover from from 1895the tokitten 1920, some of his this operatic roles. participation. What could beunable more Sending Out a Mayday 12 weeks of age. virus are often appearances at the New York Until then good listening appealing than watching the eliminate crowning of There are a number to completely For Our Spring Fair Metropolitan Opera before he died of the May Queen? The procession of boys Bob Dymond ofCan diseases your kitten these viruses from their we allow Torrington’s to an infection at the age of 48.tradition His fame and girls in brightly coloured costumes dwindle? will need vaccinated body and may become has lastedtotobethe present day, despite would melt any heart. Ribbons rippling, Torrington What picture comes and into promotional your mind against. These are: of W.I. theblasting: virus tothe the limited marketing skirts skipping ‘carriers’ and the band when you think of Torrington’s May Fair? Our Annual Meeting will take place Feline Enteritis: This other cats. Prevention of avenues available to him. He was, maypole is ceremoniously woven. th For many is it a is significant thea image November. We will onJust Wednesday 9 disease Cat Flu is best achieved by nonetheless, clientof the of maypole, Edward as the colours on the maypole are laughter and sunshine; it would be be electing new threat to during cats in the the latter’s UK. It tenure as a regular yearly vaccinations. Bernays intertwined, so the May Fair breaksadown difficult to imagine Torrington without it. President and social barriers as it appeals press agent in the USA. Publicity in is highly contagious and Feline Leukaemia Virus: Yet today, our historic tradition is committee for the to everyone. Choirs, dance Caruso’s time relied on newspapers, can spread rapidly, carried Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) under threat. It is easy to allow following year, groups and majorettes particularly wire services, magazines, onpressures shoes, clothing, foodlife dishes and suppresses the immune system and all the of modern to taking a alook back take toand the stage: feast photography and the telephone. litter trays. The severity of the disease causes leukaemia cancers of the for slowly strangle our cultural at all we have the eyes and ears. Local Caruso’s varies from abiographers, mild fever a severeKey, glands. It is one of the most common heritage. In this fast agetoofPierre are and happily experienceddignitaries in the last year then Bruno Zirato and the Stanley high-tech gadgetry, mass syndrome in which cat mayJackson sadly causes of death in young cats. It canand be pelted in the stocks getting a sneak preview of speakers attribute his fame not only to his voice media and instant die. In un-vaccinated cats the mortality spread through the mother in the womb subjected to and duckings. booked for 2012. Cups prizesThe will and to a keen 1 or gratification, there is but littleisalso time rate musicianship, from this disease approximately through saliva during licking and Mayor has awho lavish lunch, to be awarded for those did best in business sense and anbeing embrace of left for with what really matters: in 10, young kittens the worst grooming. which many are invited. The our optional monthly competitions, and community Today, more then in commerciallife. sound recordings, town crier bellows as tea he affected. Symptoms include: unusual The time infection andfor there will, between of course, be time than ever, it Many is essential to its infancy. well-known opera proudly marches the long streets tiredness, a high celebration temperature, lack Our of appearance of symptoms is very and a natter. keep our historic alive. singers of Caruso’s time rejected the of Being his predecessors and The Torrington appetite with vomiting and profuse, up to several years in some cases. rather nifty at getting through week of annual festivity andfosters phonograph (gramophone) their Silver Band pulsates by likethis thevirus beating wateryhave anda bloody diarrhoea. Cats that Symptoms the businessproduced side of things, we will also friendship, sense of belonging and a voices been lost as a result, but heart of the community. do with survive mayincluding take weeks to this recover vary widely. Theofvirus as its name link our past. We cannot let die. manage a bit timecan, to welcome Bob other singers Adelina Patti, The grand finale of the May Fair week As you walk the cobbled streets of our fully and often suffer from a variety of suggests, cause Leukaemia, but more Brewer, who will give us the low-down Francesco Tamagno and Nellie Melba is the carnival, a spectacle of light and ancient town, breathe The on the Fanciful Cavaliers. other infections due totechnology theantiquity. reduction in commonly produces in various exploited theyounew once sound. floats tumours journey through the May linkssystem. present-day Torrington Weof start at 7pm in are the Methodist their Fair immune parts the body. The virus can alsowith they became aware of the success of town whilst the streets lined withVaccination the past, transporting usdisease to a bygone Church Hall, and prospective members against this is suppress the cat’s immune system, cheering children. In the packed town Caruso’s recording sessions. era – when life was simpler. are very welcome to visit for free. extremely successful and it is vital to making them more susceptible a Any square, you have no choice but to mingle Caruso made more that 260 extant Torrington has hosted the annual May newmake members paying their subs this and new friends. protect yourincat from this illness. variety of other infections. recordings America for the Victor Fair since 1554. However, many month, months for price of ‘Uz get be 14 plaised to Hatchmoor zeetheee!’ The Cat Flu: Cat flu is caused by two Vets Talking Machine Company, (later RCA celebrations in England have their origins Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he

12. How about that! banner Mayor’s welcome

thick

Survivors Alliance North Devon

th Devonian dialect is strung across the oung film makers at Petroc November there will be a On the 16 square – Torrington is known as a in Barnstaple lunch atCollege Barnstaple in aid ofhave ACWW, friendly town and this is no better producedCountry two short videosof the the Associated Women displayed than at the May Fair. In this era World, of whichthethe WI ofnationally is a toof help promote work Survivors social isolation, the May Fair provides member. Not widely known, the Alliance North Devon (SAND). SAND the medicine of friendship, inclusion and ACWW has representatives from many provides a specialist counselling service support. The fair encourages community nationalities; working relief for of inlife north Devon forand adults who have as the young oldtowards join together poverty and sickness, promoting health the common good. What better way suffered from sexual abuse or rape, andis and non-offending advancing education. It’s down-tothere to bring neighbours their familytogether? members. earth approach offers mutual support People come from far and wide to Supported by a grant from the Wace and the practical help to women and enjoy delights of May Fair. They also Family Fund via Devon Community communities across theofthem! world. bring their two money with The fair Foundation, groups learners replenishes coffers of the and townthe – To find outthe about the ACWW from Petroc worked with community film providing welcome boost to the local Women's a Institutes nationwide, visit maker Amanda McCormack from North economy – such a help in difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk Devon Moving Image (NDMI). They Businesses use about the carnival as W.I. an Any queries Torrington chose fromadvertise aJoyce numberRidgwell of local opportunity to their wares. ring SAND President, on charitable organisations who pitched Charities also benefit: collection tins for are 01805 623588. soon fulldigital to overflowing. the free media support. Yet it isofoften argued that historic celDirector SAND, Karen Black says; Great Torrington ebrations aredelighted archaic and “We were so and anachronistic. felt privileged Town Hall Projectdesign contrary, toOn bethe chosen by theTorrington’s students to festivities By thethe time reportIn appears in revitalise old this traditions. the current a multimedia campaign that would help climate of you apathy, and The Crier, will laziness have noticed raise our profile North Devon. The indifference, theinbeen May Fair scaffolding has put lifts our spirits whole process was made fun and transforms Torrington into aand vibrant up to facilitate the repair simple by the students and and community. the continual ofboth the roof andDespite make theAmanda we were highly with the level development ofimpressed modern and building water-tight fortechnology time spent at computer ofincreasing student interest and maturity relating the winter. It will be last year’sWerecord-breaking toscreens, this difficult are over the enclosed in subject. waterproof turnout shows therethis is the still aworking place forarea live moon that through project many sheeting to protect entertainment. Given the choice of more people in thisany area and to minimise riskwill tobe theable internal a video game or participating in toplaying receive help from Survivors Alliance fabric. At the same time, a series of the buzz of the fair, I know which I would North Devon CIC, andwill realise that thereto photoelectric panels be installed, choose… running-costs, and perhaps isreduce aToday, light atthe thenew endenemy of the of tunnel.” a large-scale provide an income for the project by Watch the film here: www. town event is ‘Health and Safety’. As sellingcrowds surplus power to thebeNational northdevonmovingimage.org.uk/ huge gather, it could argued Grid.there is a danger of an accident. survivors-alliance-north-devon.html that this work being carried Nowadays, with all theisridiculous rules andAlthough to find out more about Survivors out by the Townlands payment and regulations it visit is Trust, atheir struggle to Alliance North Devon website: will be taken from funds set aside organise anything. In this age for of survivorsalliance.org.uk. countless litigation, our town is in the project, which would havehall included

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Torrington RFC

he weather has played a significant part in our games this month. Apart from a plague of frogs and pestilence, just about everything else has been thrown at us! In a rearranged game that should have seen us playing Saltash, who had to play a National Cup fixture, Wessex, whose opposition were also playing in the same competition, visited Donnacroft. With both clubs propping up the bottom of the table it was a ‘winner takes all’ game and a well-deserved 24-7 win for Torrington. Tries from Sam Britton and Captain Ben Harper, with one conversion and two penalties each from Vice Captain Tom Gooch and Sam Britton, saw us leapfrog Wessex and leave the bottom spot. Continuing the morale-boosting win, our next opponents were Withycombe. A hard fought game saw Torrie come out victorious 22-20. Our scorers were tries from Charlie (Chunk) Bazell and two from Jaymie Todd. Conversions courtesy of Sam Britton and Tom Gooch. Gooch also kicked a penalty bolstering our lead over Wessex in the table. Sadly our game against Wellington fell foul of the weather and was postponed. It looks likely that again due to fixture commitments, any postponed games will not be played on the usual Saturday.

Perhaps even Easter Monday! Torrie 2nds have been playing well. With numbers boosted by cajoling we have been able to fulfil two of our three games. Topsham visited, and in a much closer game than anticipated, a last minute penalty saw Topsham come out winners 19-20. Our next game against Withycombe 2nds had to be cancelled due to lack of players. Torquay were our next visitors and in a fairly tough game Torrie did well to hold the visitors to a 0-38 defeat when a cricket score loomed. Our juniors just keep on blooming, with numbers increasing weekly at training sessions. Sadly matches have fallen foul of the weather here too, with visits to Ilfracombe and Bideford being cancelled due to waterlogged pitches. Don’t forget we are still looking for players old and new. Training on Wednesday evenings from 6.30 for seniors and junior training sessions on Sunday mornings from 10.30am. Our clubhouse is always available to host parties, receptions or just a gettogether. Contact Adrian Avery on 07780 665 378 for further information. Mark Waterson C’mon Torrie! Respect, Discipline, Enjoyment, Sportsmanship and Teamwork

Torrington Silver Band’s Howe Concert Hall 20th Anniversary

018 is an important year for Torrington Silver Band as it marks the 20th anniversary of the opening of the band room, Howe Concert Hall. The band purchased the building in February 1996 and extensive renovations took place over the following 17 months. The Concert Hall was officially opened during May Fair 1998, and has been our home ever since. To mark the occasion we have some special events planned for May 2018. On Friday 18th May we will be hosting an Anniversary Concert at Howe Concert Hall. With a repertoire of musical masterpieces to suit all ages and tastes planned it is not to be missed. As always there will be a raffle with some fantastic prizes and refreshments during the interval; doors will open at 7pm and the concert will begin at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available on the door at £5; entry for under 16s free.

TORRIDGE COMMUNITY MINIBUS SERVICES CHURCH STREET Run by Ilfracombe STORES & District Community Transport

Ring and DOLTON Ride services operate in the following areas: EX19 from 8QE Westward Ho! and Bideford Mondays Tel: 01805 804205 Tuesdays Torrington WednesdaysOpen from Hartland Monday Saturdayand 6.30am - 8.00pm Thursdays HightoBickington south of the area. Sunday 8.00am 7.00pm Fridays Bideford

Convenience Store & Post Office Further details from: Shirley Davies 414740 www.churchststores.co.uk for our07776 latest offers

Merton 01805 603924. Personally Supervised by Andrew & Janice Gist www.themaltscoop.co.uk/info@themaltscoop.co.uk Excellent home-made food served every day 12-2pm/6-9pm Great selection of01805 wines, 622364 real ales, ciders Open fire and snug rooms

2 Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am Rolle Canal & Northern Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group

On Saturday 19th May we will be welcoming the whole community to join us for our Howe Concert Hall Anniversary Fayre. The Fayre will run from 10.30am till 4.30pm and there will be lots to see and do for all the family; including stalls, refreshments, BBQ and much more. We are still in the early planning stages of this event so look out for our next article in the May Crier for more info. We will have lots of band photos displayed over the anniversary weekend, if anyone has any photos of the band or building it would be wonderful if we could get a copy of them. Pictures can be emailed to our band secretary jowhite1974@sky. com. We are also on the lookout for a face painter, if anyone would be willing to volunteer their time, we would be extremely grateful to hear from you. For more information and to keep up to date with the latest band news join our Facebook page. Torrington Silver Band

depending on the season, Saturday 13th

flowering at thewith timeGeoffre of the Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Advice Surgery e are a friendly and informal groupGuided set Ken up to Waterways Society Walk The start of the walk i Morgan for an appointment ring 01237 preserve longstanding tiesseason's between programme these twin of new The The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter th email Kiln,to on the Weare Giffa tellgeoffrey@geoffrey towns in Devon and Finistère. We work alongside Sunday afternoon walks starts on 26 Day Saints meet @ Bideford College Halfpenny Bridge, at website www.geoffreycox.co.u May community with visitevents, to EX39 the take site of the other organizations to Abbotsham support in Coffee Rd,aBideford, 3ARpart Morning in aidThe of Wem dis Sunday 26th May. Inclined Plane cross-channel at Ridd. This visits is the charity quizzes, and help to co-ordinate by Church Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50amChulmleigh Town over a@mile but with plenH place where thearea. Rolle Canal diverse clubs and organisations from the 1pm cakes,and produce, draw is prizes a discuss likely was raised up about3pm 43 feet Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) @ The is still Major Walker The Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group membership MCofCeremony couple hours. A fromwelcome the valleyinterest floor near Plough Memorial 11am growing, and we continually from prospective new members. Our £2 (see to article) the R Weare Giffard to a Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @level The Plough and someTaddiport Tea Dance current members range from 14 years of age upwards speak French and 2-4.30p Society's fund Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall in the side of the valley Doug 01805 appreciated 622648 or Beryl 0a some do not. 8pm could be maintained 624294 enable the Soc The Roscoff Twinning that Group has officially transformed into a new organisation all the way inland to the Film 'Great Expectations' 7.30 volunteer work and they are now up and running with a formal committee to take control. The new Monday High Bickington Cinema head weir 8th at Rosemoor. promote and maintai organisation is officiallyHistorical named as l’Amicale Roscoff/Great-Torrington. & Talksseen 'Beam Music Coope Boyes & Simpso Many Society people AGM will have thePlough Rolle Canal. Future wa The French are coming! House & Quay' & John Oatway this site on previous walks but this year The will 16th inJune, 28th Ju At the time of writingTorrington this article, webeen havedevelopments our French be friends Clockmaker 7just for heard 7.30pmthat @over there have August.were For further details Roscoff will be paying Methodist a the visitwinter to Great thisworth May aFair.Sunday There 17 Church 14th thatTorrington will make itforwell email: hassallc@ymail.com 'Wreck it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The visitors during the MayFilm Fair of 2016 and they all agreed that it was the best visit Methodist Church repeat visit. The Heritage Lottery Torrington 01237 you'llMr p Plough Peter Whattonbut 6.30pm they have ever had; they experienced Torrington and of 425357, course funded ‘Life's Great Journey’ projectat its hasbestRev to leave a message. Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough the weather was glorious. We expect a similar number of visitors this time and let’s produced a new pathway from the Sheriff C 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough St. Michael’s Church 10am S hope they bring some Film ofTarka that warm Roscoff. Trail and downsunny to theweather bottom from of the Ignatius Sunday Club in upper where two beillustrated As well as planning forInclined the MayPlane Fair visit, we will looking ahead to our Tuesday 9th Film Sessions' (15) 3pm Our'The Hedgehogs Need Yo information boards have been installed involvement in local events and village fetes. Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough rd The Hedgehog Plough Awareness W to describe the saltmarsh habitat by We intended to haveFilm a group safari(12A) supper on@Saturday 3 March, but the snow 'Hitchcock' 8pm The way but why wait until th the Torridge and the workings andfor the 24th March, so and ice put paid to that; we have now rescheduled the event Plough Monday help? As 15th spring is here purpose the Rolle Canal. is now hopefully all will have taken placeofbefore this hits the Itpress. Singing for Fun 7.30-8.30pm and hopefully the weathe possible to gain a far better Please get in touch ifWednesday joining our group is of interest to you. Bickington 10th improvesCommunity our spikyCentre friend understanding of the lay-out and For more informationSton any of the above, please Michael's Church Said Mass contact: 8.30am Mini Mover Dance Session will be up and about agafo of the549454 inclined plane boat lift 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington in workings St James Chapel C Antony Jefferies (Secretary), 01271 It’s been an extremely tou than wasW.Ipreviously theHall case. Torrington @ Methodist 7pm The Centre Email: antonyandcynthia@hotmail.co.uk winter for them. T upper basin of 8pm the canal the top of 'I Wish' (PG) @ nickandanne1620@btinternet.com TheatPlough Nick Roberts (Chair)Film 01805 625765. Email:

changeable and wet wea the incline has been cleared of scrub Tuesday 16th has made it difficult for ma sufficiently to enable the outline of its Thursday 11th 'Hearing for You' Social grou them to find food or hibern to beChurch clearlySaid seen, and the way hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tue Stbanks Michael's Mass over the past months so m the railway subsequently cut through The Bickford Centre call 0127 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by Barton Barn Bash Presents ABBA - Chique weakClub and High needBickington help. If yo the northern destroying the topChique of Youth C Walsingham cellend, in vicarage July 14th from 7 until late at Barton you had a resident Memory CafeFarm, 10.30-12.30pm @ The now Centre the incline. ThisWeare canalGiffard. basin for 11+ @ 5-7pmhedge area last year don’t he event is in aid of North an Devon Hospice, with tickets Clubplease 7pm Juniors Plough supports increasing population of Badminton a bowl of water and some £10. Bar and food available. There will also be a draw and Adults @ Bickington Commun Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a them, placing it inside a fe pairs competition @ 2pm @ The Ploughorchid) auction tickets Beast on sale. green flowered which, Cribbage Film 'Cloud Atlas' @hospice. The Arms 8pm Come along and help raise money for(15) our7pm local To book start for long film 479594. Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ tickets contact SharonPlough 07943note 033 early 057 or Jenny 01237

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Friends of Berry Castle - Clovelly Dykes Visit New Date

ith everything set for a morning out at Clovelly Dykes hillfort with the Friends of Berry Castle, the weather didn’t get the memo. In fact, it threw down plenty of snow and freezing temperatures, which would have challenged even the most dedicated historian. Alas, the visit is postponed until Sunday 15th April, at 10.30am, when hopefully the weather may be a little more agreeable. However, for those who were not aware of the visit, here’s a bit of

“Clovelly Dykes is an impressive hillfort next to the A39, lying between the junctions to Clovelly and Hartland. It is one of Devon’s most impressive prehistoric earthworks , with a total of over three kilometres of banks enclosing 8.09 hectares.” information which may tempt you to join us. Clovelly Dykes is an impressive hillfort next to the A39, lying between the junctions to Clovelly and Hartland. It is one of Devon’s most impressive prehistoric earthworks, with a total of over three kilometres of banks enclosing 8.09 hectares. To the south of the A39, cropmarks indicate that the site may have extended further than we see today. Even though it’s thought to be of Iron Age date (c.500 BC – AD 50), no reliable dating evidence has ever been found at the site The banks and ditches of ‘hillforts’ are usually seen as defensive, to guard against tribal attack or invasion. But sitting on a flat plateau, without

any steep hillside around it, they may be more symbolic, or ritualistic. The construction of such a large and complex earthwork could not have been completed if there was always danger of attack. It is more likely that Clovelly Dykes was a statement of power or ritual. In its age, this site would have dominated the Hartland/Clovelly area and it is clearly built to impress. The resources required to build it, in terms of man-power, food-supply and time, would have been enormous; indicating that many years of work, undertaken by a large number of people, would have been needed to construct such a monument. No definite evidence points to it being inhabited, but that’s not to say it wasn’t. Finds of flints from East Dykes Farm including four microlithic points and waste, points to Stone Age industry, along with a stone axe. The tip of a leafshaped arrowhead and a small barbed arrowhead have also been found, as well as a blue bead which was found on the surface, similar to one found at Glastonbury Lake Village. Could this indicate trading? It’s thought that several ancient trackways passed by Clovelly Dykes, to the south, east and west, so it’s perfectly possible; not forgetting the coastal access to the north. If you would like to join this visit, please register your interest by emailing us at berrycastle1@outlook.com. Or to find out more and join the Friends of Berry Castle, why not visit our website www.berrycastlehuntshaw.com. ‘Walk and Talk’ around Berry Castle

Merton Vintage Rally 2018

inal preparations are well underway for this years’ event being held on Sunday 6th May 2018. Last year many people braved the weather and enjoyed all the entertainment that was provided throughout the day. As a committee we were amazed that nearly all the vehicles came to exhibit despite the rain, and the public seemed to enjoy every minute in ‘true’ British style! We have plenty of free parking and we look forward to welcoming you all on the day. £3 adults; £1 child; under 5’s FREE. 11 am-5 pm. More info next issue!

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Iron Age Settlement, at 2.30pm on Sunday 8th April One of our founding members, Keith Hughes, will be leading a ‘Walk and Talk’ around Berry Castle Iron Age Settlement, at 2.30pm on Sunday 8th April. Meet at Foxes Cross, Huntshaw. This will be a pleasant walk to the site, through Huntshaw Woods, where you can learn about the site and its history, as well as the invaluable work put in to conserve and protect it. Those, who haven’t yet visited the site, will have an opportunity to see an historical gem. Those who may have visited previously can see how the site has developed over the past few years. For more information, phone Keith 01237 475168. We’ll be offering assisted transport from Foxes Cross car park to the site on advanced request.

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and chip supper onT.A.O. Friday (Torrington 17 Slave May shipAgainst Torrington In Bloom 2013 Competition Entry Form Torrington School have come runners-up Condensation rising from 2013 whilst raising awareness of spinal Two students from Year 9 at Great

in a national writing competition: Otterbines) Public Meeting Strong ebony diamonds cord injury supporting SIA’s run by the National Schoolsand Beaten to a pulp. G r e a t ‘Copywrite’, information and support services. Plough Talk Sun 1st April Partnership. Harley Carter and Reuben You can hold a supper in your own Musgrave entered their poems ‘Slave 2018 The men11:30am come and home, at work or hold a larger supper Ship’ and ‘Don’t Make‘Floral Promises’ intocan the include display’ 1. Best floral display byTorrington a business Takecontainers, people up hanging baskets, at your community centre. competition when they were inlocal Yearornaments. 8 window boxes, Plants need not be bedding but We hear screams SIA provide a fundraising pack and this term have heard that will they are can include fruit, vegetables, herbs, perennials, shrubs. 2. Best floral display bySchool a public house And they come down containing hints and tips, recipes, runners up. Both boysArtificial are delighted, and flowers are notAll allowed! covered in cuts invitations and donation envelopes. have won a £50 Amazon voucher each. Red blood drips. By 3. Best floral display by an individual (best garden)* The English department is very proud inviting asking them Can * category 3seven mustoffriends be ableand to be viewed from the roadYou or Help the Harley and Reubenpavement, and thinks itanis additional to donate £5 say youa will They don’t word ie, front garden. 4. We Best floral display by a group, ie, scouts, school, Boxing Club Find a start this month miniVisual Arts at with TheKatie’s Plough wonderful that, once again, work done £35, in but raise at least will also give Likewe they neighbourhood** saga. New Home? wo exhibitions are opening at English lessons can you winadditional national fundraising ideas to up theiroflips. **‘A group’ must consistButtoned of a minimum two people (of any th competitions. The Plough on 7 April, and both Torrington Police Am raise even more. From The(photograph Depths thonly)*** age). 5. Best back garden They’ve been in The Crier before, but raised Club faces homelessn run up until Saturday 12 May. Where are we going The money will help the Nothing could be seen; my pupils here are the two winning Spinal poems: Injuries On this never ending trip?second time in a year an In the main gallery we are showing Association offer stretched out like big glassy balls. Light *** category 5 photographic must be a photograph of your 6. Best allotment or vegetable garden**** for ais permanent home works by seemed BenedicttoRubbra. “This individuals who name become up ahead be further, further, ownsupport garden,to please ensure your and address on No-one knows sessions. A wind flushed down the corridor. paralysed their are families, from the exhibition, celebrating my eightieth arka Turbines have submitted back of photo and (2 photos allowed) 7. further. Best floral display outside a public building Doesoccurs, anyone care? Since the club was fo Don’t make promises I birthday, was about like tinyextension boat on a moment a spinal injury and for can be seen asa an a draft planning application (firewhipped station, council offices, etc.) Human faeces everywhere the Globe Alone in my room, nothing but me. rough, choppy sea. Aat RAMM screaming the rest of their lives. of the 2015 retrospective for permission to erect threeHotel when ****category 6 can be a public allotment or a private garden I heard the door from downstairs. pounded atThe mywork eardrums, wantingonto January, they For more information or request a in Exeter. again focuses wind turbines on public land close to have been and can contain vegetables and fruit. cannot a 8. Best floral display by a young person (under 16) Do the men live Itlike this?inbeTorrington I heard my name being called, breakthrough. Unwanted thoughts tiptoed Town Hall a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright my technique of constructing three Torrington centre. The proposed commercial enterprise but can be atown group or individual “Someone’s on the phoneon for you!” cautiously into my head and bounced measure, but 0845 0714350 or email dimensional forms that become 57-metre take the formhave to le effort. It must be your own allotment/garden, or group 9. around Best floral display small gardenthe Quick! Shh!high structures th my brain. 30 fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk or allotment /garden you an otters activewith participant. (less than 20ft x 20ft approx.), balcony or courtyard. The show will of which of three adult theApril. whiskers Here theyare come I drypoint picked upand the wood phone,cut. thevisit voice said… Something’s coming. Club coach Heathcliffe www.siafishandchips.co.uk. celebrate printmaking. forming the rotating blades of each No more thinking. Son, the howfun areofyou doing?” It’s coming to get me......and there’s no th“Hello the club has never The closing Please cut off details and hand in to that the Against In April we Iare offering three freeyour entryturbine. T.A.O. (Torrington was a2013 voice haven’t heard in years. way out. date for ALL categories is: 30 ItJune set down 1610ofTorrington Triathlon They take you aat man addresses sure keep a note whichroots, having t part asupplied. series of Make Otterbines) has called thisofimportant Itworkshops, was a voice which I used are to know. An echo replaced the air, the echo that different venues since And a woman Completed may be left following addresses: categories only couldforms be the beating of at mythe panicked events celebrating the legacy ofyou thehave Rev entered! public meeting to contest the planning Torrington Pool last year. Wonder what All willwelcome. happen. Whiskers Home I Keble said, “I’m fine,sponsored how’s you?”by the Co-op. heart. Pet Shop, Vicarage Nursery or Ferry’s Martin application. rd June 2013 Sunday 23 He said: “Despite If you have any queries, please contact: Hardware The voice said slowly, “I’m fine, thanks The End. If you wish to attend you Torrington must book a Pleaserural comebike along to show your Terror: scenic, numbers of vacant pro Can see black bodies for asking.” The End. Hammon, Secretary, Torrington in to Bloom place by contacting Cherry theand Plough 01805 support andeyes help us protect the run on courses. Novice friendly, but town, the biggest challen As far as my can see. The End. 2013. Judging will take place on Tuesday 6th August Association, on 01805 625788. 624624. green belt. is finding a new home. T Then the voice said very will verychallenge slowly… you! ...whispered into my ears. I felt around, Free Printing Workshops with Tickets: £0.50. To buy your tickets, Man at my foot, whack! Distances members, boxers and th “I will be coming in next week…” touching the ice cold stone walls, fingers Faye Anderson-Retter phone the Box Office on 01805 Function Fitn Cut sensation Swim 400m, Bike 32km, Run 4.5km. including outstretched in front of me. Someone or I/we wish to enter the Torrington in Bloom 2013Monday Competition: Name/Group: …………………………….……………. 9th April Cut Workshop: 624624 or visit our at www. My foot Notthe sure about doing a leaking. triathlon on website Cavaliers, have worked Six weeks past, sinceLino I heard voice. something entwined their fingers in mine. my eye.make the club a succe 10am-3pm. Using inspiration from Why the notWater theploughartscentre.org.uk. your own? enterdrips as from a relay Then I said to myself… Something was taking over my body; I Category: …………………...Address: ………………………………………………………………………………………… plant world will cut your own lino “Never make you promises you can’t keep.” team? The perfect introduction to the attracts up to 30 membe wasn’t sure who I was anymore. Want mother. Want father. Carter, Katie Huxtable, ofhome Triathlon. time, training three times block and have a print sport to Harley take at Man and dangerous ………………………………………………………Post Code:…………..Contact telephone number: ……………………. Year 9 YearThe 8 For for more information or to whip book your have flowers more than photographing British native for half a point of departure for each painting. the end of the day. Suitable ages

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place – visit www.1610.org.uk. medical cards ready the beginner, or just to with improve on what recent canvases will be shown together 12+. you are already doing! Following a brief with a selection of drawings and relief Monday 16th April Mono Printing meeting at the Plough, to chat about prints”. Workshop: 10am-1pm. A lovely what you hope to get out of the morning For more information on Benedict immediate printing process using found We clean your oven - we will head out to the beautiful Rubbra visit www.benedictrubbra.co.uk. plant materials and cardboard cut outs. Torrington Commons; inspiration to the On our Artist’s Wall we have an Suitable for ages 10+. Louise & Paul Banfield so..you don’t haveFree to. Photography Workshop e: purepilates@aol.com Reverend Keble Martin. We will have exhibition showcasing the work from opportunities to photograph a variety of The Plough Printmakers. All the work Saturday 21st April John Insull on Castle Hill as-we descend has been produced by participants of ‘Photographing British Wild Flowers’ flowers INSTALLATIONS - MAINTENANCE REPAIRS towards Taddiport. Here we will be able a To class run every morningGary by today: Meet in The Plough at 10am. The book your Monday clean contact TEL: 01805 624558 MOB: 07816 600677 to spend time in the meadow beside Faye Anderson-Retter. It includes work morning will include a walk around Tel. 01237 477636 Mob. 07983298813 ROBERT TAYLOR Taddiport Bridge. Following a slow from those relatively new to print and Castle Hill, down to the meadow byPROP: the Web. ovenwizards.com meander back to the Plough, in time experienced printmakers from past Torridge and return, so a certain level GAS SAFE: 202034 for a coffee, there will be a chance to courses. The prints will demonstrate a of fitness required. Anticipated finish at ADVANCED CRAFT explore waysQUALIFIED of refining and displaying wide variety of different types of print 1pm. the images captured during the morning. making including lino, monoprinting, A short introduction to ways of 19

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Rolle Canal and Northern Devon Waterways Society AGM

nd n part Sunday April 22exciting, , the Rolle Makes with he red.would pass them onbrings the story to sessions take inare and many different himyou myooze details, ecology ofalive. The Common. InbetweenchooseAll free, fun, spring into summer before setting seed strongDon’t yet steady rhythm Canal Northern Devon by wordlost school friend. The onlyevents disadvantage theguided series has that you can opt for. tosay myalong these will be walks,tournaments interactive andand well supported and disappearing, although it is itawas broadcast: being eyedOr both the romance Waterways Societyearly willFifa be it comes time when One of the disappointments of One down Sunday afternoon I received ais theincluding The Tree Trail, exploration of Bluecoat Children’s Centre years perennial. Raggedone Robin prefers to y of our closest celestial Again and again. of the andPath inventive the music. isn’t a veryallgood holding their There AGM at Rosemoor Gardens, phone call, yes! It was my old school the newmost Rolleclever Canal and our11 is practitioners. They are based grow in damp or marshy ground, inT.V sun has to offer, it got Harder and harder. Britishpopular This could Centre. be improved if youyour inaround the Learning friend, we had not spoken to eachseries always Wild Flower Stroll. Werange. developing and supporting or lightMusgrave, shade. venue Encore!’ was an Reuben pushed aside in scheduling purelyothercouldchild download your own choice of other for over 58 years, and I was so would like suggestions for any in earlyAGM year’s education The formal business onlythrough takes a Although widespread, Ragged Robinbig popular shows at whimsical, thank you to because of other music onto the game which you may Year 9 choked with emotion I could hardly activities that you would like us to play, and inand particular many ofto the few minutes, of more interest nonis becoming increasingly rare in the tradition speak, with Roscoff. like The Family. However, rather than choiceonof developing music not just with hearing his voicethe time include, or Royal perhaps you have anprefer sessions are the focused countryside, so it is definitely worth ple and countryside of practising all in all Spaced has no major flaws that thatmembers is already there there. will be illustrated updates Year 11 have been but knowing what My Father God had interest which could be the basis of thethe skills needed to supportprojects your child on various pull theSow series down. I think Fifa 11 improvement brings the game of that growing it in your garden. seed in celebrated. Another transactional writing skills, by writing done. The concerts were what I call your own evening stroll (eg. to have strong communication skills to haveinto been taking along itthe If you (you haven’t seen the show I highly football your own place living room, is canal a late TV summer/early autumn can onoured memories thatfavourite reviews about their shows, God’s stepping stones, I haverecommend photography, sketching, geology). Wefun in support them through life. by one it. Spaced is British comedy challenge that can be played the last few years. games and films. Here are two ofloads them.from existing plants) and collect experienced these several times overat itswillbest, also be with contacting have an orexcellent along shows likeourThelocalplayer We on their own, up to fourVolunteering prick out when large enough to handle. about thethedangers of “...after the meeting onplayers Sunday last few years, He puts things intoOffice schools. Pathway here atbeBluecoat Children’s and Extras. In my opinion Simon on each team. It could a good excuse overacting your part.SpacedThe seed is quite fine, so cover only nd 22 there will be the opportunity place that never happen if left to us. IPegg’s Please contact: Centre, so if you think you may best role is Tim in Spaced. to invite your best mates over, get the be lightly orofnot at all. They don’t flected Spaced that theno isselected some of thevery earliest work had idea where my friend was, heFunny, Email: info@torringtoncommon.co.uk interested in volunteering in our centre, to walk down to the site, which inventive, and fresh. crisps and coke in, and have a big require a lot of heat so can over-winter stimulating and that Simon the actornow comedian Pegg best known lives in Basingstoke. Sometime Phone: 01805 624176 with a rangethe of opportunities including football tournament. Corey Woodward, is outside publicly accessible in ofa thecold nextformeeting his mainon rolethe in Shaun Dead. frame or unheated during this year we are planning to Visit: our website or Facebook page office experience, years Year 11 Because I and think it the is early such an gardens, view restoration a clever inventive series with greenhouse, or you can just scatter wouldSpaced be meet the is seashore. up, how I am going to handle that education, enjoyable game, andhorticultural/gardening, one you can play whacky stories Iain involvingseed smartabout parodies work.” and scratch it roughly into fromstorytelling, the comfort of your own home, I don’t one thing I the do Star know is creative play andthis more, at Bluecoat Fifa 11 review on big Sci-Fiknow, movies, especially the surface of the soil. New Programme game comes highly recommended. that I have an incredible God who please contact us. We alsothehave Most noteworthy of these are Fifa 11 is the latest football game for Wars trilogy. Children’s Centre! Fleur e Wild Flowers Charlotte Avery, loves me. Delight the Lordany football fanatic. This game has just access towork freeontraining support restoration the Sea to Lock at Spaced is the story yourself of two flatinmates We are putting the final touches to Year 11the and he will give you the desires of your volunteers. We would welcome you. our who Garden been released by EA Sports and any the Bideford end of the canal, and meet some interesting friends. The our new programme for 2013/2014 and Pause For Thought We also confidential buyers will not be disappointed. culi spoofheart. is not just for comedic effect, but to clearing andoffer rebuilding of thecounselling basin and you can pick up a copy from the And finally: and family support to help Vernon Andrew sessions game brings managing and My Second Birthday This n names help move the story forward; this makes wharf beside the lime kilns at Rosemoor. centre, or download from our website playingmonth for your with latter issues suchhas as proceeded housing, money the storyline feel very epic May and altogether is a very special in stown my team seem like it’s s more by This project apace . your choice of who’s from April 1 it’s just a shot away, challenges, relationship support or just Life the series much more fun and calendar year, being my second whenmakes they Common News during the last year, with assistance from Forteam 2013/2014 will be th howthere and you play the oldThere to watch. general advice children’s behaviour. are chains thaton bind, birthday as I call it.on Onyour Saturday 19 s onegripping is noFor many years we have been Rosemoor staff themselves, and after favourites together with some new game. The players Spaced hasan a very unique style toatit.4pm The Please pursuits contact of my mind, our centre to make an flos-cuculi May 1984 a new have added features organising annual week of events to I became sessions such toasviewers. Mellow Parenting,Andthe meeting on Sunday 22nd there will be soKingdom they look of realistic Directed by Edgar Wright and written by faces that judge appointment. creation born into the God. koo Flower. celebrate life on The Common. We Pattern Changing, Beyondblue,Thethe opportunity to walk the site, This game Simon and JessicaIt Hynes it has a to do with fate of mankind. We hope you enjoydown your totime you was tonothing me but isallthe next in the Fifa k most of have usPegg now extended this a fortnightseries Bookstart Corner different and as monthly and is completely the realistic feel; this is very clever writing which is outside the publicly accessible and your child spend here together at about Him, Jesus. gged Robin’ so that more activities can be included Saturday morning effects have beenFamily vastly Thrive. improved. considering the crazy storyline theinvited series to visual If fate is deciding gardens, and view theCentre. restoration work. Bluecoat Children’s If there is I was go to a Christian oes flower from May to – andaround. surely itParody cannot continue to rainFifa 11Ifhas brilliant characteristics; youmany are interested in any of theseAnd any revolves and quotetime ismeeting dividing, This starts at and visitors group you would like2pm us to provide, meeting led by Drthe Billy Graham at cuckoo is for usually heard. two consecutive weeks. players areplease madecall to into lookthe likeoffice real andThe hope will not comfort sessions, spotting plays a big part in enjoying the please let ustoknow weand willview try to are welcome comeand along the Astonwith Gateour football in Bristol. I the style and colour nk flowers This look year as ifwill start Golfstadium football players from series, however, because these are book. The plan fear that I’m hiding. th it into our sessions and activities presentations and see what we are doing had never been in a football stadium akencrucial a pair of scissors Competition 24 June, eyes which makes great fun to and to the story on it makes it muchwith morecashof theirWe also have threeitdrop-in stay fordisplay later inour the year. so thought it would fun, I had heard the name. to prizes and a chance to win ‘Thebe play. fun and enjoyable. I will walk canal heritage and improve play sessions, including one especiallyIn grace We hope tosleep, see you your family Billyfinish Graham itbest ok to go. I of Fifa 11 is that you also white forms and access along the line of and the Rolle Canal. The feature Commons’ Cup’. of We on so thethought The series becomes really interesting And in death I will for twins, triplets and more on th can at Bluecoat Children’s Centre. remember the singing was ble forms which can be play for your own choice any I’m more information is required email whento we weekend of of 6/7 on the realisation howJuly attached the willcan Thursday’s But Ifwhile awake, 10-11.30 am. of team Kind regards, remember a word ually characters at specialist plant Leedsmany United to Liverpool or areMy dreams are marquee andwonderful, how on you but findcan’t have ayou small The Oldfrom I will keep. hassallc@ymail.com. Our outreach sessions Viv Jones Bluecoat Children's Billy Graham spoke. wering stems rise Green up to to Manchester United, there yourself agreeing with what Tim (Simon Oli Chris Benson, Bowling to house a display, andMacclesfield Hassall, continuing including well-attended Centre Leader and all the staff are many different challenges you can At the close he made an appeal for ng naturally, and they Pegg’s character) is saying; this really Year 10 at some practical examinations of the Rolle Canal Walks Organiser sessions at Winkleigh and Parkham. Bluecoat Children’s Centre people to come to the front if they wish long period from late

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Torrington Memories

enjoyed reading Moria Brewer’s article in ‘The Crier’ (March edition), especially regarding the cattle market and the agricultural show. I am a Torritonian of long-standing, and have seen many changes over the years. Nearly all of my school holidays were spent at Burwood Farm, and I loved it. I guess this is where my love of tractors and farm machinery began. When my school years were coming to an end, my father said ‘how would you like to work on tractors and machinery?’. I guess my enthusiastic response was enough that the next thing I knew I was going for an interview with Mr Algie Furse proprietor of Pope and Co agricultural engineers in New street (near Lidl’s). I began my five years’ apprenticeship on the August 8th 1956, the start of nearly forty years in the trade. Mr Furse was a great boss, being very fair and honest. The cattle market was held on Thursdays and was well attended by many farmers, Algie (as he was known), always attended. I remember he once bought many galvanised roofing sheets for stock, but they did not sell, farmers said they were ‘too dear’, so after some years Algie put them in the market sale, where he made three times as much for them! Surprising what a few competing farmers can do. After the market closed down I spent many days burning off the tubular stantions with an oxy-acetylene cutter, some farmers bought them to use as sheep penning. The late fifties saw the boom in sales of the ‘Lister Start-o-matic Generating Plant’. As a dealer we installed many units on farms and small holdings where

The Cool Garden Project

egular visitors to RHS Rosemoor will be familiar with the Spiral Garden; an ever popular garden which dates back to the very beginning of the ‘New Garden’ at Rosemoor. As no garden stands still, we have decided to replace the Spiral Garden with an exciting new design, created for us by Jo Thompson MSGD, a Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winner. Her inspiration was; “the site, which is at the bottom of a slope, and very wet. North Devon has high rainfall, so it seemed sensible to make a feature of the water. In my design, water flows out of a raised curved viewing platform and into a series of rivulets; it then disappears below ground and re-emerges into a pool at the bottom of the slope, as it would in a natural landscape”. The colour scheme is to be similar to the Spiral Garden; it will include whites, blues and yellows with grey foliage. Our new garden is to be named ‘The Cool Garden’. Work has recently begun on this 18-month project and our gardeners have already lifted a large part of the existing plants and ‘heeled’ them in to a large storage bed. Others have been potted, to be cared for and grown on by our nursery team. Important larger shrubs have been propagated in order for us to have fresh specimens for the new plan. Remaining plants are being re-distributed to other garden areas, so nothing is wasted. The iconic Ligustrum hedge has now been felled and cleared to make way for the removal of the remaining stumps and the lifting of the centre circle and the paving material; this will be stored and used as the base for the new design features. Work is due to begin on the new design early this summer. Richard Wilson, Horticulturist Image: Clearance of Spiral Garden credit Richard Wilson mains electric was not possible. It was a boom for many farms and this meant electric light inside too. The Torrington agricultural show was held in the big field at Crowbear Farm, and I remember one year we fitted up one of the Lister units at the show, this enabled us to supply Mr Bill Plucknett, who had the adjoining stand, with power to run his new

televisions etc. Once whilst reloading the generator, which weighed something like two tons, I recall nearly going out over the side of the trailer. In those days everything was man-handled. I hope readers will find this interesting. Vernon Andrew

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01805 938502 07711 079 577 Huntshaw Church: A Hidden Gem in Rural North Devon Open Day 21st April

he future of our rural churches is under threat due to dwindling congregations and financial constraints. The beautiful, Grade II* listed Church of St Mary Magdalene at Huntshaw, is one of those churches whose future is under discussion. Our churches are at the heart of our sense of national and local history and identity. These important buildings have provided a place for community worship and social support for hundreds of years, and they are often the oldest surviving buildings in villages. Significant events such as baptisms, weddings and funerals have taken place within them, and memorials and liturgical features, monuments and architecture constitute a large part of their historic character. The Friends of the Church of St Mary Magdalene Church Huntshaw was established on 16th February 2018. Our aims are to raise funds for the maintenance and preservation of the church, and to encourage enjoyment and appreciation of the building by the people of Torridge. It’s a tiny church but small is beautiful, and with creative new schemes and commitment it will survive. Come along to our Open Day on Saturday, 21st April, 1-4pm to find out how we are going to take the church into the 21st century. The event will feature the launch of ‘Huntshaw Through the Ages’ a new book by Richard Sears who will be on hand to sign copies of the book. All proceeds of sales will go towards the preservation of the church. There will also be guided tours, new displays - including one or two surprises, a children’s treasure hunt, cream teas. Another date for your diary: Saturday and Sunday, 2nd and 3rd June 12-4pm each day, ‘Reflections on War and Peace’ a flower festival to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War. More on this in the next edition. Audrey Alimo and Lorraine Hooper Joint Chairs of the Friends of the Church of St Mary Magdalene Huntshaw More information: audreyalimo@yahoo.co.uk or lorrainehooper489@btinternet.com

abulous Freddie here reporting in with an update on my adventures over the last month, and news about the rescue. Last month was really exciting for me as the new mascot dog; not only was there snow, which I had not seen before, but I got to visit lots of great places. I went to visit Hopps & Chapple at ‘The Voice’ radio where they launched an appeal just for me! They thought that I perhaps needed some extra treats and toys as I have to spend a lot of time in my kennel, and so they very kindly said that anyone who wanted to donate anything could drop it into their studios at Belle Meadow, next to the bus station in Barnstaple. Of course I would be very grateful and share any gifts with the other kennel dogs! Sadly I can’t be rehomed at the moment, because although I am lovely and very friendly if you see me out and about with my sponsor shirt on, I have developed a bad habit of guarding my food and bed. I understand that many dogs have a habit of doing this, and it is something that can be worked with. As a puppy, my old owner used to take my

Visit: www.k9focus.co.uk Call: 07971 461806 Please leave a message if no reply as we will get back to you. The rescue is run by volunteers, most of whom work full time and so we are unable to man the phones continuously. If your enquiry is urgent then email is often the quickest way to contact us. bowl away from me just because she could, and I soon learnt that if I growled and showed my teeth then she would leave me alone. Sadly this is what I now do, but I am only protecting what is mine really! Anyway Aunty Lynne says this is quite naughty and I am learning that I don’t have to protect things because she doesn’t take my food away, in fact she gives it to me and so I am learning slowly! Sadly the handsome Otis and bouncy Benji are still looking for homes and no one really seems very interested in them. I can’t understand why as they are very friendly and a lot of fun – there are some really nice pictures of them on the website (www.k9focus.co.uk). I should mention as well that there are lots of picture of yours truly on there, as I now have my very own blog ‘Following Freddie’! It is coming towards that time of year when all the volunteers get together to plan the year’s events and as always the rescue is in need of more volunteers to help. Last year we helped over 100 people either rehome their dogs in times of need, or find a new furry friend like me. However Aunty Lynne said we need more people to help us continue this work and so she has organised an Open

Day on Saturday 7th April at The Voice Studios, Barnstaple from 2pm. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to join our happy band of volunteers, then do come along – apparently there will be lots of coffee and scrumptious cakes on offer. Come and meet the team, including me, have a chat and find out a bit more about the rescue. Well that about it for this month. Have fun and enjoy the spring weather; hope to meet some of you at our open day. Woofs & Licks Fabulous Freddie

Knit ‘n’ Natter at Weare Giffard Village Hall

nit ‘n’ Knatter plus any other crafts you would like to bring along, or just come along for a coffee and tea on Saturday 14th April from 10am to 12 noon. There will be some wool, needles and patterns available on the day. So whether you’re a novice or advanced knitter, please come and support the North Devon Hospice. If you would like any further information please contact Tracy 01237 478043.

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Great Torrington Memory Café

rom April, the memory café will be open twice a month. The dates for the next three months are as follows: April 12th and 26th, May 10th and 24th, June 7th and 21st. The activities for these meetings will include music, presentations and exercises. If you are a friend/family member and are concerned about memory loss then do come along and talk to one of our trained volunteers. For further information contact Pauline on 01805 625969.

Thanks From a Grateful Dog Walker!

would like to say a very big ‘thank you’ to the person who, at some point 28th February and 4th March, found a pair of black, knitted gloves and a black dog lead on the ground at the entrance to the Tarka Trail car-park, and placed them on the fence of the Puffing Billy. I had walked my dog and placed these items on the roof of the car and subsequently drove off, leaving them on the roof. We walked there again on Sunday 4th March and I decided to check the area; low-and-behold, there they were, somewhat wet and bedraggled but now home and dry. Someone deserves thanks for their kind and thoughtful act. Jonathan Richards, Petrockstowe

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In the ‘Youth Speaks’ Year 7 Lbacc challenge, pupils were asked to write a speech about something they were interested in. This is Gracie’s convincing speech on ‘Why Girls Should Play Rugby’ Why Girls Should Play Rugby

My name is Gracie Avery and I am here to tell you why more girls should be encouraged to participate in rugby. Rugby is a brilliant sport. Although from watching the sport it may seem like everyone just charges into each other, there are many different technical aspects of the game to explore. The trouble is, so many girls are missing there chance to dive in and explore this game. And that’s what needs to change. I have only recently been introduced to full contact rugby in my PE lessons and I instantly fell in love with the sport. For some other girls the connection wasn’t quite there. I wouldn’t stretch quite so far to calling them wimps (although the fear of mud to me seems slightly pathetic) but the fear of starting a new full contact sport was understandable. This fear is holding back too many girls from even attempting the sport. Rugby is often portrayed as a hard tough sport not for the faint hearted, you do have to have a bit of grit, but I think what a lot of girls don’t understand, is that with the proper instruction and training injury can easily be avoided. Women’s rugby is becoming better and better all the time. It is continuously growing and on a global scale more and more countries are getting involved. With every success of England’s women team funding gets more plentiful and popularity expands. Our women’s team are obviously doing wanders for rugby, but sooner than later a new generation of girls rugby will have to take over. The more young girls that get involved in the sport, the more funding that will get pumped into youth rugby, which will boost the new generation and take women’s rugby to another level in the future. Lack of opportunity is a big setback in girl’s rugby. There are so many clubs and training camps local to boys across the country, but for girl’s rugby seems hard to locate. You would think schools would be the place to look. It isn’t always there fault as rugby isn’t included in the curriculum for years above year seven. Luckily enough my school have an afterschool club I was inspired to attend after doing rugby as part of my PE seeming I am in year 7. Numerous times I have heard other girls complain about not having the opportunity to do rugby in their PE. Luckily for them they had the urge to attend the club and pursue rugby in their school years. In this speech I hope you have either been inspired to encourage someone to participate in rugby or join yourself I feel strongly about this subject and believe in this day and age it is a matter that needs to change. If this speech made you realise rugby isn’t for you perhaps you should probably just stick to netball, but beware, the rugby uniform is a lot more comfortable. Gracie Avery, Year 7

On the opposite page, Year 10 have been studying a collection of ‘Power and Conflict’ poetry. This is Saskia’s retelling of ‘The Charge of The Light Brigade’, where she exposes a more realistic account of events: In the ‘Frankenstein’ Year 7 Lbacc challenge, pupils read the wonderful novel ‘Wonder’, This year, they were lucky enough to be able to visit The Plough to see the film of ‘Wonder’ which released last year. Here is Ailis’ short review of the film: Wonder

Wonder, the film which unquestionably forges emotional connections with the viewer through its harsh realism. Wonder is about prejudice an discrimination. We witness Auggie’s struggles against this treatment. Leading us to reflect upon how unaccepting society can be. From my perspective the triumph of Wonder is that it gives you an insight into the lives of people within Auggie’s social circle. This is structured throughout the film by the use of chapters each chapter is about someone connected to Auggie. This creates a strong image because the story is being told from different points of view. A beautifully written touching film about the effect of discrimination on the individual. Ailis Temple-Thurston, Year 7

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“Forward, the Light Brigade! Charge for the guns!” He says. The shout echoes around the camp, some more doubtful than others to announce it. Half a league, that’s as far as we have to go. But it seems to go on for much further than that. I grab a few moments of peace, overlooking the idyllic valley, thinking of how the lush green of the grass will soon be spattered with blood from both Russians and English. Because it doesn’t matter which side you’re on. We all bleed crimson. The command comes, that we are to prepare to charge. With weak knees, I meander back to camp. We mount up and trot to the top of the valley, a line, as some believe, of unstoppable power. In reality, 600 men. Riding to slaughter. My hands are trembling slightly, but I keep a firm grip on the reins. My mount snorts and paws the ground, sensing my trepidation of the charge. Next to me, Albert, both a long standing friend, and fellow soldier in the Light Brigade, nods, his expression hard to read. But I see the fear in his eyes and realise I am not the only one considering their likelihood of survival. However, like the rest of the brigade, we keep our mouths shut, and our heads high. Because this is what we are meant to do. Ask no questions. Just do, and die. After what feels like forever, the Light Brigade charges. The tension built up by the beast beneath me is suddenly released, and like a spring, I am propelled forward. I charge towards the slope, surrounded by soldiers on horseback. Ahead of me, I see the guns and cannons of the Russians. To my left, I see a grey horse streaking ahead of the rest. An eager patriot or something

more? I strain to see what he is doing. But I can’t. Not before the cannon blows his head off. Horses shy to the right, and my own gets shunted sideways by the fearful creatures. I struggle to regain control of her as we reach the bottom of the valley. The bottom of the valley of death, no less. We are riding into the mouth of hell. Cannons rumble and my ears ring. The flashing of the sabres blind my vision as the sun overhead reflects off of them. We drop like flies, easy pickings for the Russian cannons. They surround us, on all sides, and we are like fish in a barrel. My horse screams – she has been hit. I am flung forwards over her head as she collapses on the ground, which is already littered with the bodies of our brave cavalry. I cradle her head as she dies, fighting for breath, legs kicking aimlessly. There is nothing I can do. As the light leaves her eyes, a wave of sorrow washes over me, and it feels like a punch in the gut. We had a bond, however small. I rise, and look for a horse amidst the chaos. I see one, stood still, seeming to be grazing. I wander over to it, and almost tread on the soldier it’s nuzzling. Albert. His gaze is glazed over, and I realise he is dead already. A red wound has blossomed on the shirt under his jacket, which what hastily ripped open in what must have been an attempt to save himself. It looks like a watercolour painting of a rose. I force myself to look away. Now the only death I should fear for is my own, but I feel nothing. I mount his horse, and pull its head away from the dead body. I whisper a silent prayer to any god that is listening, and gallop

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away. Other soldiers have broken the Russians ranks, fighting ferociously. I think the Russians were at least a little taken aback, assuming we would so surely retreat when we realised the mistake of the charge. I joined the others, slashing with my sabre at any man on the ground, not caring, not feeling. And then I stop. Why were we doing this? Are we, men, as a race, doomed to destroy ourselves? Is our true destiny to wipe ourselves out? Will we forever hate one another? Are we, as the wiser men among us put it, a worthless race, unfit to rule the Earth? Thoughts rush through my head, and I shut my eyes, trying to shut off the flow of questions. I feel sick. In that moment’s hesitation, a match is struck, a fuse is lit. I hear it before I feel it. I am thrown, face down, into the grass. My hearing is gone, taken by the blast from the cannon that now takes my life. The pain only starts when I hit the ground, spreading like a fire through my body, tearing though me. I shut my eyes and smell the sweet grass, and in this moment, I can almost imagine sitting in the valley, on another day, where the only sound you can hear is the soft breeze on the grass, and the birdsong in the trees. I welcome death with open arms. Hoping, with all my heart, that in the future, the real reason the Light Brigade were sent on a suicide mission will not be eclipsed by some flashy, glorified story, and that people will remember it happened because we asked no questions. We only did, and died. Saskia Batten, Year 10

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The Valley of Death

The Crier Prize Sudoku This month’s prize is two tickets for ‘Comedy with Mark Steel’ on Saturday 26th May, 8pm at RHS Garden Rosemoor, kindly donated by The Plough Arts Centre. Please send completed Sudoku with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com.

The winner of last issue’s prize Sudoku was Pete Reeves! The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 12th April, the solution and winner will be in the April issue.

The Plough Arts Centre is at the heart of the community in the centre of Great Torrington (9-11 Fore Street).The Centre provides exciting opportunities for all people to experience a wide and vibrant range of high quality arts events both as audience and participants. Through creative partnerships the Plough Arts Centre is a welcoming and dynamic venue for artistic expression and education, responsive to the needs of the local community and a beacon for the arts across North Devon - visible and valued throughout the South West. From our stunning rural setting we offer a varied and exciting programme of arts events and activities. We aim to entertain, inspire, educate and challenge in equal measure. Our packed annual programme includes film, live events, exhibitions, workshops and educational outreach for people of all ages, interests and abilities. We think we are ‘the largest arts centre in the smallest town’ and we know our positive impact is felt across the region. Visit www.theploughartscentre.org.uk or call us on 01805 624624.

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...so why put off feeling good? t~01805 622719 e~team@torrigym.co.uk www.functionfitnesstorrington.co.uk e r i c pa l m e r c e n tr e , c a s t l e s tr e e t , t or r i n g t o n , E X 3 8 8 E Z

Great Torrington Remembers Every Man Lance Corporal George Stephen Robert Bright carnivalofqueen and attendants. variety events onher offer (and even a

Junior Golf at Torrington

have heir content!e for anhearts’ opportunity anfor it is worth pointing out the surprising frequency in which people’s Dolton’s three are allirstly, expected is available to hire oss Torridge to be limited edition B10pubs beer!). exciting names are altered from their original birth-names to what appears on ‘official’ to benefit from the carnival atmosphere 4pm, through into the mportant work they do. The North Devon Biosphere junior golf and an influx of visitors. There will be most days, and also on documents. iting nominations for catchment area follows the water froma From a research point of view, this can prove frustrating when programme plannedthe roundabout, fish and chips, urdays to for events tracking an rivers individual. George Stephen Robert Bright is a good example of this. serves besmall recognised source oftrampoline, the Taw & Torridge barbecue, and candy wagon. ys. Please see Kiz or at Great Torrington Born in Reading ering. (and smaller rivers running into the sea in 1891, we find George in the census data of the same year. @btconnect.com Golf Club this is thetofirst child of George Bright (senior) and Elizabeth Ann Bright (formerly olunteers Week 2013, along the coast from He Lynton Hartyear, aimed at Your Vote Counts! Atherton). At this tnership with CATS land) down through the villages and point the family are resident in Reading at Edgehill Street. The only encouraging a younger mas Cards & Gifts 1stgeneration Torrington Scouts have of information we can extrapolate from this information is that George’s tion through Sport) are towns of northinto Devonother out piece toregistered sea, to theEvening sport. conjunction England ood causes andIn Fair with with Nat West Community Force, father works as a postman. Death records also show that this would be the same sentation on Lundy and beyond. on sale inwe St. Mary’s which invites people to would also pass away at the age of 25 years. Golfat are promotingThe ‘TRI-GOLF’ for year that his father ebe 6-9pm, the Pier events will be advertised locally nd November to drdfrom 2 vote for a local charity/ young people, which aims to make an His father’s death would have been a massive upheaval for the family. By 1901 Ho!, and via the new interactive B10 Monday to Friday 10amcause his of mother their choice, to more fun. s aged introduction 5-19 years oldthe game website www.northdevonb10.org.uk. has remarried and they are located at a new address. His mother is now 10am-1pm. Over 30 event withexcitement themarried winnerthere two Ford, aged some five years her junior, who is employed as a localto the nated will Our alsofirst betri-golf put Justwith to add will toand William thr u n n e r s - u p ect your cards from and b e i n gbiscuit factory. Their residence remains in Reading, but is now 254 e of five be aMarch free 13prize draw some schools was on Tuesday . carterwith at a local th selection of gifts from awarded a grant. Please go ories of fabulous by Biosphere On Tuesday 10 April at 1pm prizes we are donated Liverpool Road,toReading St Giles. Along with George, who now goes by his middle he world.holding a junior coaching www.communityforce.natwest.com/ S business supporters individuals event with a stand name, Stephen.inThere are three step brothers and sisters in the household; Arthur Torrington Scout projects/ and type ormation or Devon. There1 will be6,plenty of local north golf professional aged Mabel aged 5 and Herbert aged 2. Group into the project name box, aonvolunteer opportunities to enter the at B10 – all young people are Carnival Bydraw the age of 21, Steven (name change, or at least a variation of it, for the second register and for us.from Please get as to be events and online May to out of the family home and was lodging with the Aldridge family, in hes, drummers, bands welcome to join in.vote time) had moved many of your friends and family to do th o attend September 2013. will give a small Devon Then on Sunday 15 Burghfield, a short way outside Reading. The exact address is given as Kings Hill. At so as well,Events as if we are successful we Upcoming e Please a blaze of publicity April between 12 and this point he was will be able to continue our program of working as a dairyman. The Aldridge’s son’s position is listed as a month.  Get Know Your Local Wild 4pm we aretoholding milk boy, which suggests a connection. refurbishment to Scout HQ, not only Volunteer Coordinator: n’s annual carnival, a Family Open Day At some point Flowers with Plantwalk Expert benefitting the Scout group, but allbetween this census information and 1914, George would have h130 dates back to Victorian with fun competitions Clare Gurton those who hire in theHartland hall.moved to Great Torrington. In addition, at some point between leaving Great ,@torridgecvs.org.uk will be on Guy Fawkes – refreshments and organised Torrington and of enlisting, he moved with his family to South Wales where they settled. Clare has aFran series Ashton t h ay t , 2013. S aequipment t u r d a y provided 5 – come along and Unfortunately, exact details are scant. We know from his service records that he weekly guided plantwalks in Hartland mber, which have agives go! the enlisted the Kings Royal Rifles Corps and carried the service number 11811; he to be a part of B10 - the NorthinDevon Biosphere Reserve ities an extra spark of 649 289) or email Phone (07984 was aligned to 2nd Battalion. We also know his enlistment place was Reading, so Biosphere’s tenth anniversary celebraOde to Derek Stamp ar. h Anniversary Clarry clarry650@outlook.com for more he had returned to his birth town to join the colours. He was enlisted at the rank of tions. Derek Stamp is 60, haryGent, one of the key (branded info. B10) will These friendly outings, you Lancewhere Corporal. A milestone in his life, he Dowland country fair s, organisations cannowfind and learn Again, about details plantsof the Lance Corporal’s death are vague. Reports received at Our Easterand Quiz will be held And we’ve come this far together in June, is organising om around northern on local the verges, are that he was fatally wounded and died on Christmas day 1914 in onwhich Friday April 6th at As thegrowing Clubhouse time indicate devoted man– and wife. in £1,600tefinale to an exciting usually two hours long andand willFlanders theatre. Later official records would go on to state that everybody welcome to this fun night. the France light up the night ofks will celebratory be held onhea actually Wednesday Call Trish on 01805 622229 to find out died a week later on New Year ’s Day 1915, most likely from injuries He’s always there to hold my hand, ort of themore North evening fromsustained 6pm. This andSamba enter a team. on is25ath December. Either way, the North Devon Journal goes on to report And kiss me when I’m sad, Drum Band, ere Reserve. unique opportunity toCorporal see Finally don’t forgetMy thatsoul ourmate ‘Golf that years, Lance George Stephen Robert Bright was the first soldier from Great for so many ngton Majorettes until Allstar autumn the North Devon Biosphere Express’ scheme offers anyone an Torrington to have been killed in action in the Great War and must hold a high place Best friend I’ve ever had. ng part in the parade will be from angle,roll toof honour. George is remembered at Le Touret Memorial in France. opportunity to play 9 holes of golf for a different in the town’s lage, along with many activities and learn more about identifying just £10. a go! Michael Newcombe We met when I was “just 18”,New Buildings or Renovations? s, this Come year’sand have andincluding with the local wild flowers and to enjoy R.PITTS Then call your Local “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Friendly Builder

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New Buildings or Renovations? New Buildings or Renovations? Then call your Local Tel: 01805 624665 Mob: 07812 067199 Then call your Local Friendly Builder

R. Pitts “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Tel:624665 01805 624665 Tel: 01805 Mob: 07812 067199 Mob: 07812 067199

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• Specialist finishes/effects Building & Renovations• Wallpapering • Period properties • R. PITTS Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams Tim Parkinson City & Guilds NVQ Level 2 Qualified • Fully insured Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

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TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB

K. Sheppard

Families Welcome

Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY Large function room for parties/weddings Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month Plus other entertainment Contact Sharon 01805 622543

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

f you lead a busy life, you’ll probably find yourself eating less healthily when you’re out and about. Commercial ‘Food to Go’ is rarely good quality, or good value from the point of view of

health. Our cooking workshops are small and tailormade. We cook and eat together, with a portion of goodies to take away and all the notes and recipes emailed afterwards. Depending on the interests and experience of the participants, we select from soup, savoury bakes, hearty salads, protein balls, chunky, yummy but simple chocolate, cake or bars. Everyone welcome, beginners to more experienced and we all learn and share. The April Crier won’t be out in time for you to book on to our next cooking workshop, but more events are in the pipeline, with catering from Kindness Kitchen, our in-house teaching and catering service. Look out for flyers online with the Crier, Torrington Town News and North Devon Holistic Events Facebook pages, also our own Organic

Plasterer

General Building Maintenance Ceiling Specialist, Internal Alterations, Re-skims & Artex Removal 8 Clinton Gardens, Merton, Okehampton, Devon EX20 3DP

01805 603016

& Wholefood Buying Group Facebook page, which you’re most welcome to join. To start our page was simply for local people ordering organic and wholefoods together, but now it’s also becoming a forum for people from further afield who’d like to learn, ask questions and discuss anything affecting our wellbeing. The aim is to create a kindly, polite, safe and respectful space for discussion, where everyone can feel comfortable. . Qi Gong Workshops: Sadly road conditions scuppered March’s classes. But we have new dates for an April taster session and day workshop with international instructor Dario Gerchi www.qigongdario.com and more in May. We’ll learn simple techniques and moving meditations for better digestion, increasing energy flow throughout the body and directing healing energy to specific areas, to name just a few. Taster sessions: Mon 9th April, Fri 18th May. Day workshops: Sat 7th March, Sun May 20th. Do get in touch for full information. Wellbeing Tip: Now is the season of the liver and gallbladder, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. In spring we see young green leaves bursting forth, full of vibrancy, flavour and tenderness, just what livers love best, so spring is the perfect time for an internal spring clean and to change our more sedentary, winter energy to being more active and outward-going. It’s a time of renewal and that’s just what our livers actually do, but they do need a regular service! As our chief organ

07813 257 471

of detoxification, and in our world of synthetic chemical pollution, de-natured, chemicalized, processed food and pressured lifestyles, our livers commonly suffer the most. Irritability, anger, frustration, impatience, resentment and stubbornness are all signs of a sluggish, clogged up liver. There are many foods to cleanse and refresh the liver e.g. leafy greens, raw garlic, ginger root, olive oil, apples, turmeric, lemons, micro algae (eg spirulina, chlorella, wheat / barley grass) sprouted seeds, nuts and pulses. The first essential step is to eat less. Eat cleaner, lighter, fresher, avoid processed foods and of course alcohol, being toxic to the liver. Enjoy sour and bitter flavours; look for foods rich in chlorophyll. If you do, your liver and gallbladder will love you back and serve you well. Next bi-monthly grocery order date: 14th May. Contact me now so you’re primed for the new catalogue on 1st May. Buying Group FAQ’s How do I join? Ring or email Mary as below What does membership cost? Free Must I order a minimum amount? No Must I order every month? No If I don’t order, can I still apply to share someone else’s order? Yes How do I pay? BACS or cash on collection What if I need advice or have questions? Ring me now 01805 623 307, email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk. Here to help.

Scouts Don’t Just Do Camping!

f you mention Scouts then you are bound to be asked about camping and yes we do love camping and being outdoors, however we also love getting involved in lots of other activities! Since September 1st Torrington Scouts have had a full and exciting program. Last autumn the older Scouts visited Braunton Scout shooting club where we all had a go with air rifles, pistols and archery. This term they brought their range to us by bringing their laser rifles and pistols, everyone enjoyed this activity so much that we plan to do this again. We have also been working towards our First Aid badge through practical first aid skills, and our International badge by learning new international games and making a Chinese Dragon, as well as a noodle eating competition! We recently visited Rock and Rapid in South Molton where the Scouts were all able to experience climbing and belaying on the climbing wall and even some of our Scout Leaders managed to climb to the top of some of the walls (but not all!). Three of our Scouts join with other local Scout Groups and are out on Dartmoor every other weekend with Torridge Explorers, training for this year’s Ten Tors event in May. As well as the walking, other challenges for these weekends are the weather, keeping dry has been quite a test, and the horses who find everyone’s sandwiches irresistible! The younger members of our group, Beaver Scouts and Cub Scouts, have been having plenty of fun and learning lots of new skills. In the autumn they spent time working towards their Personal Safety and First Aid Badge, giving them lots of invaluable life skills. Leading up to Christmas, they created their own play, with lots of well-known characters such as the Grinch, Willy Wonka, and Guy Fawkes, which they then presented to their family members. This term they have been working on their Home Help and Artist badges, with lots of lovely things made for Mother’s Day. With the summer term almost upon us and our love of being outside, we will be planning lots of outdoor activities for our members, and yes it will include camping! If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Beavers (age 6-8), Cubs (age 8-10) or Scouts (age 10 -14) please contact Kirsty Pells on 07887 557574 or email kirsty.pells@btinterent.com.

Did You Work in North Devon’s Trades & Industries

he Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon’s Pop Up museum is open at Bridge Chambers on the Strand in Barnstaple. We are getting objects out of store and collecting stories from the community around several themes during 2018, to help us gather information for our new

gallery telling the story of North Devon’s social history. Our next theme is the ‘World of Work’ and we want to hear from North Devon people who worked at Shapland and Petter, Brannam’s pottery; other trades and industries such as the creamery, glove making; also making a living from the land and the sea; working in offices and public sector. We will be running targeted sessions on these topics throughout April and May - you can follow what we are doing on Facebook at Popupbarnstaple. Drop in and see us at the Pop Up on a Monday or Tuesday between 11am and 3pm. We look forward to meeting you over a cup of tea and a biscuit! Call us on 01271 346747.

we’re local - call 01237 452333 info@jamaicapress.co.uk

Meet, chat and enjoy some company for the day

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Let us help choose the right holiday for you. Or join us on one of our ESCORTED, EXCLUSIVE departures. Please call our office for details..

•Open daily 9am-4pm

in aid of the North Devon Hospice Friday 6th April

Price includes light buffet 36

Interested? Apply today. Part time or full time jobs@westheanton.co.uk

Offering an unrivalled choice of holidays to suit every taste and budget from: Snow, Sun, City breaks, Coach Tours, Theatre/Theme breaks Cruising and Tailor-Made Holidays.

Charity Quiz Night

£5 per person, £4 going to charity. 7pm for 7.30pm start

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• Available for functions • Serving great local food & drink Tel: 01805 623050 Email: info@pufﬁngbilly.co.uk

• Carvery Sundays 12-3pm