Torrington Crier August & September 2020 by The Torrington Crier

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August/September 2020 The Crier is produced 10 times a year on behalf of the community, by The Crier Community Interest Company. 5900 copies are distributed throughout Great Torrington and the rural district.

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If you don’t normally get the Crier delivered, you can now view the latest issue and back issues online, including all adverts, which can be clicked on to visit their websites.

Torrington & District Community News & Events

Contact us... Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon. We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication. Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please. Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk Town Distribution: Matt Joy Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

About The Crier...

The Crier is produced 10 times a year by The Crier Community Interest Company, a social enterprise, and aims to support the local community and local businesses, by providing a publication in which news, events and information can be shared throughout Great Torrington and the rural district. Production costs are covered by advertising income. We would also like to thank Great Torrington Town Council for their support. We would be very grateful if you could please ensure you inform any advertiser of where you saw their advert.

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Volunteers collect Criers from the Library each issue and drop them off in various villages. If your community doesn’t receive the Crier but would like to, and you can help, please contact Becky on 01805 603152, torrington. crier@gmail.com, or call in to Torrington Library. Thank you!

Disclaimer:

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. Website 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.

Great Torrington Town & Community Hall New minds needed for new challenges hy not use your skills and energy to help us shape the future of the Great Torrington Town and Community Hall? You don’t need to have specialist skills to be a valued member of our team. A fresh perspective and common sense are the most valuable attributes you can bring. Our current Trustees come from a wide range of backgrounds, but all with the same goal - to ensure the town’s refurbished hall, which opened in April 2019, will be a real asset to Torrington for now, and future generations. If you are over 18 and interested in getting involved please email townandcommunityhall@gmail.com telling us a bit about yourself and what skill/ideas you would like to offer to develop the Town Hall. Pop Up Thanks Massive thanks to everyone who contributed to Torrington’s Town & Community Pop up Shops on Saturday 4th and Saturday 11th July. Together, we raised an amazing £764 This would not have been possible without so much community support, those of you who donated quality clothing, shoes, toys, DVDs, bric-a-brac etc., those who helped set up the Great Hall, to ensure it was Covid-19 safe, the ladies who came along to sell on both days, and to you the customers who came along to make a safe and socially distanced bargain event. Thank you to each and every one

of you. Socially Distanced Meetings Fed up with Zoom and now want a safe and socially distanced meeting space for your organisation? If so call Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192, 01805 623298 or email townandcommunityhall@ gmail.com and we will send you a booking form. Torrington Town & Community Website We are in the process of updating our website and hopefully this will be ready by the time you are reading your August/September Crier. We will be using the same domain name https://www.greattorringtontownhall.org/. Our new website will keep you up to date with all that is going on at YOUR Town Hall. Town Hall Titans The Town Hall Titans are an amazing group of volunteers who help with a variety of Town Hall tasks: organising events; administration tasks; photocopying; sharing ideas; helping with funding applications etc. Now that the money has been raised to restore the Hall to its former glory, we need to find new ways to generate the income needed to maintain and keep the building running for future generations to enjoy. We are always looking for new Titans (especially young people and those young at heart!). If you’d like find out more, please get in touch with Anne on 07971 696 192 or email townandcommunityhall@gmail.com.

Cavaliers’ Pumpkin Competition

e are into the second month of the competition and I hope your plants are growing well. I am hearing some stories, of varying degrees, as to the progress of competitors’ plants, and the extremes some are going to protect their plants. One individual has taken to camping beside the plant; I think that is an exaggeration! We still aim to have the weigh-in on November 1st at the Torrington Arms. Full details will be in the October issue of the Crier. Happy growing! Dick Matthews

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euphemistically being called “service depending on the season, Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am Rolle Canal & Northern Saturday 13th improvements and service changes”. flowering at thewith timeGeoffre of the Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Advice Surgery Waterways At this meeting Cllr. Claire Wright, Society Guided Walk The start of the walk i Morgan for an appointment ring 01237 At the meeting of the Devon County season's programme a councillor from OtteryThe St.The Mary,new put Church of Jesus Christ of Latter of Kiln, on the Weare Giffa email to tellgeoffrey@geoffrey Sunday afternoon walks starts on 26th Council’s Health and Adult Care scrutiny forward a proposal to suspend Day Saints meet @ Bideford College Halfpenny Bridge, at the website www.geoffreycox.co.u May with a visit to the site committee that took place on 12th March, requirement for Devon’s Abbotsham Rd, Bideford, EX39 3AR of the Coffee Morning in aidThe of Wem dis Sunday 26th May. NHS to make Inclined Plane at Ridd. This is the Church there was a proposal put forward by the Chulmleigh Town over a@mile but with plenH hundreds of millions of Sunday savingsSacrament until afterservice at 11.50amplace where the Rolle In the Canal interest of a 'right to and reply', and CCG (Clinical Commissioning Group) cakes, produce, draw is prizes a discuss likely the end of the Covid-191pm outbreak.* was'Hitchcock' raised up(12A) about3pm 43keep feet to our community informed, we Film @ The Major Walker MCofCeremony to cut £400million from Devon’s health couple hours. A The motion was defeated by the from the valley floorcontacted near Plough Cllr Saywell to give11am him Memorial (see budget over the next four years, up until Conservative majority on £2 the to article) the R this scrutiny Weare Giffard to a level Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @ The Plough Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30p opportunity to respond. 2024. This follows cuts of £557 million Society's fund committee, at a time when was, Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall in Britain the side of the valley Doug 01805 appreciated 622648 or Beryl 0a over the previous five years which saw, and is, going through the worst pandemic 8pm that could be maintained 624294 It saddens me to have to respond enable the Soc amongst other things, the loss of 71% of since the Black Death. all the way inland to to an thearticle submitted Film 'GreatCrier Expectations' 7.30 to The volunteer work Devon’s community hospital beds. These cuts have not Monday been High Bickington Cinema headreversed weir 8th at Rosemoor. promote and maintai which is just plain wrong. The NHS and In a presentation on 12th March from Historical & Talksseen 'Beam Music Coope Boyes & Simpso Many Society people AGM will have and are still pending, with every Rolle Canal. Social Care sectorthe have done an Future wa the Sustainability and Transformation &toQuay' & John the Oatway Plough this site on previous walks but this year The th possibility there will be House efforts extend June, 28th Ju will be 16 amazing job protecting our communities Plan’s chief executive, Philippa Slinger**, the scale of these cuts Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @over have been developments inthere a coming August. For further details during this worth pandemic, and keeping us Methodist Church it was stated that to make the £400 14th the further winter that will make it well a Sunday recession, resulting in even email: hassallc@ymail.com safe, and I want to pay tribute to their Film 'Wreck it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The Methodist Church million funding cuts, there were plans for healthcare deprivation forrepeat visit. The Heritage Lottery Torrington the population 01237 you'llMr p Plough fantastic work. has Rev Peter425357, Whattonbut 6.30pm the following: funded ‘Life's Journey’ project of Devon. to leave a message. Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough The Clinical Group * A reduction in agency staff produced a new pathway from Commissioning the Sheriff STITCH supporters across our town C Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pmdid @not Theput Plough St. proposals Michael’s Church 10am S forward any to Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the * More efficiency relating to the number are angry and perplexed that our own Ignatius Sunday Club in upper cut their by £400 million. Before Inclined Plane where two budget illustrated of surgical procedures County Councillor on the scrutiny 9th Tuesday Film 'The Sessions' 3pm Our Hedgehogs Need Yo the pandemic, the total NHS budget in (15) information boards have been installed * Reducing hospital lengths of stay 'Lincoln' The Hedgehog Plough committee, Cllr. AndrewFilm Saywell, did(12A) 5pm @ The Plough Awareness W to 'Hitchcock' describe the saltmarsh habitat by £2 billion. However, Devon was set for * Fewer admissions Film (12A) 8pm @ The not support Cllr. Wright’s proposal. way but why wait until th the Torridge and they the workings and to overspend that were forecast * Reducing overnight stays after surgery We hope that in the future Plough Monday he will do help? As 15th spring is here purpose of the Rolle Canal.byItapproximately is now budget £100 * Capping referrals Singing formillion Fun 7.30-8.30pm everything possible to challenge and and hopefully the weathe possible to gain a far better outlinedCommunity to the * Trying to source less expensive 10tha year. What the CCG Bickington Centre improves our spiky friend oppose any healthcareWednesday cuts, and that of Said theMass lay-out and Committee were indicative measures Stunderstanding Michael's Church 8.30am Mini Mover Dance Session pharmaceuticals will be up and about agafo he will report progress onworkings this issue, the inclined boat that lift overspend to tryplane to contain and in St James of Chapel 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington C * Reducing the cost of procurement, It’s been an extremely tou and his representation Torrington and voting, topreviously than wasW.I theHall case. The Centre @ Methodist 7pm books. balance their That is totally such as replacement hips winter for them. T Torrington Council and Film inupper the'I Wish' ‘Torrington basin of 8pm the canal the of their budget by (PG) @ TheatPlough different fromtop cutting * Reducing the number of outpatient changeable and wet wea Crier’. He has recently written since has this been cleared of scrub Tuesday 16th the incline £400 million. They are has not made reducing appointments by between 60 and 70 per meeting, on 24th June, “Rest it difficult for ma sufficiently to11th enable the outline of its 'Hearing assured Thursday for Philippa You' Social grou their budget and at thethem meeting cent to find food or hibern banks to be clearly seen, and the way I will rigorously opposeSt any cuts to hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tue Michael's Church Said Mass Slinger said, very clearly and in plain over the past months so m * Doing less work in the independent theshould railway subsequently cut through The Bickford Centre call 0127 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by local services by the CCG they English – “there are not cuts”. weak and need help. If yo sector thespace! northern destroying the top of Youth Club High Bickington C cellend, in vicarage announce any”. Watch Walsingham this That@ is why Cllr Wright’s you poorlyhad a resident hedge * Reducing overseas recruitment Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm The the incline. This canal basin now Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pm STITCH area last failed year don’t worded and inaccurate motion * Improving staff retention Clubplease 7pm Juniors Plough supports an increasing population of Badminton *https://claire-wright.org/more-deep-cutsa bowl of water and some to secure the support of not just Adults @ Bickington Commun Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The * E-consultations in primary care (GP Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a loom-as-devons-nhs-must-save-overthem, it inside a fe Cribbage pairs @ Beast 2pm @ The Plough Conservative Councillors, butplacing the competition green flowered orchid) which, surgeries) 400m-by-2024/ Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Arms 8pm members Liberal Democrat and Labour There are also plans to reduce the **View Ms Slinger’s presentation agenda Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ Plough note early start for long film number of hospital beds further. item 7. https://devoncc.public-i.tv/core/ too. Clearly, if the article above was Plough note early start for long Apparently, these cuts are now portal/webcast_interactive/455423 accurate, then the Labour Party is in CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Wednesday Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist 17th ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon St Michael's Church Said Ma today pleaseWorks  Damp Surveys & Remedial ee James Chapel inFrSt

Proposed Cuts of £400million to Devon’s Healthcare Budget

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Torrington Town Treasure Hunt

support of ‘£400 million of NHS cuts’ too! I find it particularly bemusing that the article’s authors seem to think there are cuts taking place in the NHS when, during this pandemic, the NHS and Devon County Council secured an additional 194 beds in Devon, including 50 for us in North Devon. There will be a further 120 beds in the new Nightingale Hospital, which the Government has confirmed will be used to help with routine patient testing and winter pressures this coming season, not just for Covid-19. This will be an enormous benefit to our NHS here in Devon. None of these measures sound like cuts to me. I am fighting and campaigning to secure both the above, and many more improvements for Torrington, so that we can offer more health services in the town for local people. We can secure those improvements if the NHS can reduce its overspending on things like agency staff, something I would have thought we would all welcome. Let us look forward to the future for an even better NHS in Torrington Rural and Devon. Cllr Andrew Saywell

ot only… but instead of… the Cavalier Bonfire, Royal Ascot, Glastonbury and Wimbledon Torrington is holding a Town Treasure Hunt on August Bank Holiday Sunday, 30th August, starting and ending at the Town Hall. Please be there at 2.30pm so that we can send groups out at regular intervals, depending on numbers. This is a walking event, in order that we can re-acquaint ourselves with our wonderful town in which we are so lucky to live, and that has looked after us so well over the last few months. The event is free and teams of up to six are welcome to take part, and it is suitable for children. However donations towards the continued running of the Town Hall can be made on the day. No pre-registration is required. So if you think you know Torrington well, why not come along and join in? All you need is a pen or pencil to write down the answers. But please leave Mr Google at home! Kids, see if you know more about the town than your Mum and Dad, or Grandma and Grandad for that matter! If you’re a visitor to the town then you are invited too. All you have to do is keep your eyes open! There will be a small cash prize for the winning team. Please be aware that this is a privately organised event and that you take part at your own risk. Holmes & Watson

Torrington Baptist Church

ow different all our lives have been since March, and yet Torrington has proved once again what a great community spirit we have in the town and surrounding villages. Torrington Baptist Church has been preparing to reopen for services, ensuring we are complying with the Government rules. We now feel ready to once again hold our Sunday morning service, which starts at 10.30am. It will be a very different style of service, no singing, and the social distancing we are now familiar with, and sadly no tea and biscuits. If you feel able to come you can be assured of a very warm welcome.

Shirley Bere

Services include: House sitting • Dog walking • Equine care • Emergency cover Contact Isabel on: Tel: 07989 995935 Email: isabelspetsitting@gmx.co.uk Visit: www.isabelspetsitting.co.uk

Competition Time at North Devon Hog Roast!

Win a Hog Roast Party for 2020/21 e wanted to say a very big thank you to all our fabulous brides, grooms, corporate clients and private customers for all of your loyalty and love over the craziness of the past few months, by launching our Hog Roast Competition. We are so excited for all the new bookings and enquiries, and all our extra special weddings for couples having to wait just a little longer to say I do! It’s been tough time for everybody recently, including us at the North Devon Hog Roast, with regards to future bookings sadly cancelled this year, so sharing is really caring. To enter this competition please ‘like’ our Facebook page and comment with a friend you would like to share the prize with. www.facebook.com/ northdevonhogroast. Thank you all for entering and good luck! Referral Rewards and Local Discount Tell a friend, colleague or relative about us and if they book you will receive a £20 cashback gift straight from us. Alternatively, you could save £50 on your next hog roast booking. Receive a 10% discount if you are within 15 miles of Roborough, North Devon. We love what we do and we hope that you enjoy it too. Many thanks, Sam & Andy E: info@northdevonhogroast.co.uk Visit: www.northdevonhogroast.co.uk

IG PAT Testing

lectric shock can kill or cause serious injury and damage. All duty holders have a legal responsibility to both their staff and clients to comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulation

1989. Portable appliance testing (PAT) is acknowledged as the most efficient and economical method of conforming with the aforementioned statutory obligations. In essence, any electrical item with a plug on that is used within the public domain should be tested. Dependent on the class of appliance, calibrated testing equipment run a series of individual checks to ensure your appliances are electrically safe for your business, employees and customers to use.Test frequencies are dependent on the type of equipment and its location. Furthermore, whilst the use of labels is not statutory, they often give the user confidence that equipment is safe. Local to Great Torrington, but covering North Devon and Cornwall, IG PAT Testing offers a flexible testing service which fits around your business and clients. Whether it’s a set of hair clippers or 110v power tools, I have the equipment to diagnose faults which are often not visible to the naked eye. On completion of testing, you will receive a test certificate for your property and insurance records. Throughout the months of August and September I am offering a 10% discount, please get in touch for advice or to book an appointment. IG PAT Testing, www.igPATTesting.com

Having a Clear Out?

Get your rubbish collected and disposed of safely! Let’s talk rubbish! I’m sure you’ve seen on the news about fly tipping in our lovely Devon countryside. During lockdown, many people used their time at home to finally get around to tidying the garage or shed and having a good clear out. Once the local council tips reopened, many homeowners paid someone to run their

rubbish to the dump, only for their items to end up in laybys or field entrances. It is so important that you use a licenced waste carrier to remove and dispose of your items responsibly. I can offer competitive rates for garage clearance and waste removal and can take away any metal items at the same time at no extra cost. Please contact me for all your waste removal requirements

New Local Relationship Counselling Service

new relationship counselling service opened in Barnstaple earlier this year, to help couples and individuals struggling with their relationships to access support in their local area. With lockdown restrictions now eased clients can once again have appointments in person. Following the closure of Relate’s Barnstaple centre in December last year, people needing help had to travel to Exeter or Taunton to access specialist relationship support. In response to this need, Jean Bowerman a former Barnstaple Relate counsellor until its closure, set up North Devon Relationship Counselling Service. Jean works from The Tarka Clinic in Barnstaple, and also offers appointments by telephone or video call. Jean said “When people are anxious or stressed by difficulties in their relationships they can feel in real crisis. Being able to talk through their difficulties with an experienced professional can be invaluable. They need to be able to access help easily and quickly, particularly if they rely on public transport or need evening appointments. The Covid-19 outbreak has brought with it extra pressures, such as worries about finances and concerns about future job security. It is really important that local counselling is available, particularly if relationships were already in difficulty before lockdown.” Appointments can be made, sometimes at fairly short notice, by calling 07887 562 072 or Tarka Clinic on 01271 373346. For further information see www.northdevonrcs. co.uk where you can also send an email enquiry. and have the peace of mind that your rubbish is in safe hands. James 07714 819 415 LWC no. CBDU269392

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Tarka Pottery Reopening!

Take Advice Before Booking Holidays

huge amount has changed since I wrote my last piece in April. Not least the fabulous announcement, on 1st June by The Travel Trade Gazette, which is the oldest travel industry magazine in the UK. Each year The TTG carefully select the best UK travel agencies across 50 categories. I am thrilled to announce that Not Just Travel were declared WINNERS in the Homeworking category for 2020! Definitely a reason to celebrate during these challenging times. Speaking of announcements, I write this article on 7th July, just a few days after the Government announced the lists of countries that passengers in England can travel to, without the need to quarantine on their return. As much as the 'list' is out, it’s not as straightforward as it seems, so please don’t be in a rush to book holidays online. There are still many restrictions on where we can actually go, where we may have to isolate when we arrive, take a Covid-test before we go or even arrive and find that the borders are closed to visitors from the UK. If you book a holiday direct online, you won’t be asked where you are from, or if you've had Covid-19, or if you live with anyone shielding, or are a frontline

e’ve missed seeing our regular customers and holiday visitors over the last few months. In the meantime at Tarka Pottery we’ve been redesigning the studio and put lots of measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone this summer. We are able to offer Potter’s Wheel Experiences for all, together with full and half-day throwing and hand-building clay experiences for adults. Take Out Kits We aren’t able to host larger groups with social distancing and safety screens in place. Instead, we’re offering our regular holiday family workshops as take out packs – why not get together with a couple of friends or relatives to have some creative time together? Our clay Take Out Kits offer you the chance to decorate a trio of tiles or make a character, an animal, or a Harry Potter Sorting Hat! We include clay, templates, instructions, brushes, links to YouTube videos, tools and glazes too. The cost is £18/pack or three for £50! Pottery Painting Packs are available to take out too. Simply choose and pay for the items you want to paint and we’ll provide you with a colourful selection of glazes, brushes, sponges and a colour palette guide. Take it home and spend as long as you like on your painting activity. Lovely ideas this year have included rainbows on butter dishes, beach scenes, and hand and footprints on mugs. With the price of a small mug pack for just £10 we hope you think it’s good value for money. All of the projects can be returned to us for firing, which is included in the cost. Get in touch to find out more, we look forward to seeing you. Thank you for your continued support. Jax, Lynne & George 07931 306 414 www.tarkapottery.co.uk worker, or if you’ve travelled to other countries beforehand. Online systems simply do not have the capability to screen - they just assume that you have done all the research first. If you want to travel, book via an agent (ideally me!) so they can tell you all the pitfalls (if there are any) about the country you wish to visit, in order that you can make an informed decision. For example, did you know there are forms you have to fill out in advance

before you go to Spain or Croatia? You may be at risk of being turned away if you haven't filled out these forms beforehand. Right now travel is a minefield, you need to take advice more than ever before. Stay safe everyone. Gill Farr Not Just Travel

Recommended Reads

ugust already and now a with only herbal medicines, it was just newish title ‘Hamnet’ by left to luck whether you lived or died. Maggi O’Farrell, a fictionalised It is the plague-carrying flea which account of the life of William captures the attention, Shakespeare and the death, at the as it makes its way from age of eleven, of his son Hamnet. Aleppo to Stratford, where It sounds gloomy, especially in our it unfortunately finds a present situation, but don’t give up home in Hamnet’s twin as this is a gripping story with a really sister Judith. Eleven year interesting look at the imagined old Hamnet desperately life of Shakespeare’s family. runs around to find a His wife, who was a clever doctor, no-one is home. and lively woman who His mother Agnes, trained falcons, and who a herbalist, is out was older than he and far collecting herbs to help more prosperous, is named cure the town’s sick Agnes for the purpose of population, and his our story, rather than Anne father William has gone (Hathaway). They married when he to London, supposedly to sell was 19 and Agnes was about 25 and gloves for his father, but actually to pregnant with his daughter Susannah. write his plays and find actors to stage They had deliberately arranged this them. Hamnet could not find a doctor so pregnancy as they were very much in lies beside his sick twin to comfort her. love, but her family This is a well"It sounds gloomy, especially in imagined picture did not approve of our present situation, but don’t of 16th century William who was, in give up as this is a gripping story England, the their opinion, from an inferior family. with a really interesting look at interesting young After they married the imagined life of Shakespeare’s life of Anne they lived, as was Hathaway, and a family." expected, with possible reason why William’s family in Stratford-upon-Avon Shakespeare, in his will, was supposed in a very small house with his bullying to have only left Anne Hathaway his father, a glove maker, and his mother ‘second best bed’. Grief is at the heart and sister. Given the addition of their of the tale both for Agnes (Anne) who own small family, which included has to face her son’s death alone, and Susannah and their twin babies, no William, who finds a way of marking it in social distancing was possible, hence his own way. when disease took hold it took many Bookworm lives. This was the Bubonic plague and

Torrington Library News

he Summer Reading Challenge 2020 is up and running; this fun reading activity, themed the 'Silly Squad', is a celebration of funny books, happiness and laughter, featuring artwork from award-winning children's author and illustrator, Laura Ellen Anderson. Parents have to sign up for their children, following the instructions at summerreadingchallenge.org.uk. Our Facebook page will have links to regular special events to support the challenge, so please keep an eye out and let us know if you enjoy what you see - we would love to hear what progress your children are making through the challenge – this is all new to us as well! You need a library card and PIN for each child. If you have a library card but have misplaced your PIN, please email us at torrington.library@librariesunlimited with the card number and name and we will be happy to assist you. All online services require the library card number and a PIN. Going to print, our physical library is now open for a ‘Choose and Collect’ service, but there is no access to the library space. Give us a call on 01805

Litport Echo: What Next?

622107 during normal opening hours or email us for books chosen from the Devon library catalogue (restrict your item search to Torrington Library by clicking the ‘Advanced’ tab), or we can choose a selection for you. We will agree a time slot for you to collect (and return) your books, DVD or audio items. Our online service has eBooks and eAudios ready and waiting for all our readers to enjoy. If you haven’t discovered your library online please go to www.devon.libraries.org.uk. Follow us on Facebook @TorringtonLibraryDevon or @DevonLibraries for updates on the service. Library staff are very much look forward to seeing you all again, even if things are a bit different initially. Kate, Kate, Becky & Michelle #SillySquad2020 #SummerReadingChallenge

he Litport Echo, a bi-monthly newsletter, has been serving the communities of Little Torrington and Taddiport for over 30 years. It started in the days when cut and paste meant scissors and glue, and 50 copies meant turning a handle 50 times for each side of each page. The editorial team of Jill Shawe, Pat Carpenter and Judy Barber set the wheels rolling, with Judy Barber providing the artwork. Now at issue 189, Judy Barber’s work still provides the front cover. I have had the pleasure of editing the newsletter for some 9 years and during that time have been ably supported by regular contributors and distributors. The community photocopier in Buckland Brewer has provided the printing capacity. Robert O’Brien has quietly managed the finances. The ‘Record’, the village archive set up by Judy Barber and cherished by Mike Sampson, provided a source of fascinating articles and each new Litport issue went back into the Record to maintain the living history of the community. Times have changed. Newsprint is no longer the go-to medium. Communities change, key members change. The Crier, once restricted to Torrington, now serves its rural satellites, and with online capacity. The Little Torrington Record has been without a keeper since the death of Michael Sampson, and now we have Covid 19. For a sales pitch this is hardly sparkling, but I should like to pass on the baton to someone with the same convictions but with new ideas. Could you be that person? If so please email me: sallyramsdenindevon@hotmail.co.uk.

Is Taddiport Part of Torrington?

addiport is in the Little Torrington Parish. Across the river is Great Torrington, the River Torridge being the boundary. The toll house for the canal was on the top road of the dairy, and was pulled down in the early 1970s. In the 1920s, Granny Friend lived in this toll house with Mr & Mrs Bert Finnamore. There was a ford across the river and this led up to the Leper Hospital. Buckingham House in Taddiport was a coaching house and livery stables. Later on it became Buckingham Arms and was run by Maggie and Jack Ash. Part of the car park was a small rose garden. This brings lovely memories of Tony Smithson (who was Mr & Mrs Ash’s grandson) playing an old record player, which had to be wound up. Just a few lovely memories of Taddiport and information of which was told to us when we were young. Included in this is a photo of the 1953 flood, with the old toll house in the background. This is the one that was pulled down. Is Taddiport part of Torrington! Freda Palmer

Blackberry Farm Shop

* Open 7 days a week, & s�ll producing our home cooked food * Please order in advance & use our fully contactless collec�on or delivery service. * Product range: now includes general groceries, household items, toiletries beer, wines & spirits. * Delivery service now reaches out to those who are isolated or wan�ng to stay at home. For full details & a stock list: Call 01409 261440 • Email: lizzy@lizzyslarder.co.uk or Visit our Facebook page Blackberry Farm Shop Stay Safe everyone. Lizzy’s Larder, Blackberry Farm Shop, Milton Damerel, Holsworthy, EX22 7NP

Fleur’s Gardening Forum Plants from the New World

he discovery and exploration of ‘Douglas Fir’ fame) in the early 19th the Americas began in earnest Century. Lupinus ornatus grows from the late 15th Century and in the states of Washington, on into the 19th/early 20th Century; from Idaho and California. Lupinus Columbus to the Spanish Conquistadors villosus grows in dry, sandy to the Pilgrim Fathers, then on to areas of South Carolina to the early settlers and explorers who Florida. The famous ‘Russell journeyed further west and north, making Lupins’ from which most the most wonderful botanical discoveries modern cultivars were bred as they travelled. They collected seeds originate from a cross between and cuttings, often working with the L. arboreus and L. polyphyllus indigenous tribes to learn the medicinal both species from North and culinary values of many of these America. plants. In fact maize, which originated One of our most popular in central America/Mexico, has perennials is the Penstemon, become one of the most important cultivars of which can be food crops throughout the world both found growing from Mexico (P. as animal fodder and human barbatus), to north-western USA consumption. into British Columbia, through North America’s varied to the central regions where geology and meteorological P. bradburii can be found and regions, with a coastline which was first bred in the UK that borders the Pacific and in about 1813 under the name Atlantic oceans, P. grandiflora "You get the idea… that without the the vast prairies which became discovery of the Americas we may not the accepted to the Rocky have acquired such a varied number of nomenclature. Mountains and plants to grow in our cottage gardens There are down to the humid, subnumerous other over the last 500 years..." tropical Southern species, some States, gives rise to a huge array of very dwarf, others over six feet in height plant life that must have astounded early but I don’t have room to describe them settlers. Small wonder they regarded all! the New World as some kind of Eden! Monarda didyma (Sweet Bergamot) is Naturally, they brought many back to another well-known plant with aromatic Europe and we still grow them in our foliage and scarlet, bee-friendly flowers. gardens. Named after Nicolas Monardes, author of The Lupin is one such flower, the first book on American plants (circa discovered by David Douglas (of 1569), originally known as ‘Oswego Tea’,

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being first collected from Oswego region near Lake Ontario. Lobelia cardinalis originates from New Brunswick to Michigan and down to the Gulf States, the wild form found in woodland clearings and moisture retentive soils. It has been cultivated in Europe since 1626, its wonderful bright crimson flowers lighting up our borders. The Evening Primrose (Oenothera missouriensis) is often regarded as a weed nowadays, yet its origins, alongside O. caespitosa, are in the states of Nebraska, Texas, Kansas, Missouri and Oregon. Asters of many kinds are also native to the USA, probably the best known being A. nova-belgii and A. nova-angliae (Michaelmas Daisies). The true wild forms can be found from Newfoundland right down the east coastal states to Georgia, South Carolina and across to Colorado. Helenium, Gaillardia and Rudbeckia are all native to the States, and there are many wild species, too many to mention here. You get the idea… that without the discovery of the Americas we may not have acquired such a varied number of plants to grow in our cottage gardens over the last 500 years, and I haven’t even mentioned the various trees, shrubs, cacti or succulents! Fleur (written to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the voyage of the Mayflower to the Americas)

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Torrington RFC

o another month has passed and still Covid-19 is with us. Unfortunately there has been no notification from the Government or the RFU regarding when rugby can start again. It’s a consequence of the very nature of the game that contact is inevitable. Thus we will probably be the last sport to be given the green light to resume playing. Especially at the level of rugby we are playing in, and despite top flight rugby resuming the ‘as yet unfinished’ season in mid-August. We are eagerly awaiting the go ahead to resume training under our new Head Coach, Zerren Bell. On a sad note, our Club Captain Tom Gooch has taken the decision to leave Torrington RFC after many years, to move to Bideford RFC. We wish him all the best and thank him for his efforts both on and off the pitch. As a consequence of Tom leaving, his partner Anna has resigned as Club Secretary. Again thanks for your contribution Anna. Clare Turner has very kindly offered to take up the reins as Anna’s replacement. Welcome to the madhouse Clare!

Torrington Garden Society

ur programme of spring talks and summer garden visits has been on hold due to the pandemic and the committee has taken the decision not to restart our talks programme this autumn, but to defer the programme to next February.

We need to say a very big thank you to L.J. Developments of Torrington, who have very kindly resurfaced a good proportion of our car parking area and the access route through to the main gate. A very generous and much appreciated form of sponsorship. Cheers fellas! With very little else to offer in the way of other developments either on or off the pitch, I’ll wish you all a safe summer, what’s left of it. We are certainly living in strange times! As usual, if there are any players out there looking for a fun club (normally) to be involved with, please get in touch via our email TRFC1985@outlook.com. STOP PRESS! Training has resumed under our new coach Zerren Bell. Wednesdays 6.30pm. Observing current social distancing stipulations. Our overdue AGM will have taken place 22nd July. Further info on our Facebook page Torrington RFC. Respect, Discipline, Teamwork, Sportsmanship & Enjoyment C’mon Torrie! Mark Waterson

Recognising that members enjoyed only two meetings in 2020, we shall rollover all paid subs into 2021. We hope that will meet everyone’s needs. Despite the drought and absence of our usual team, weeding sessions at our flowerbed at the junction of Well St

Torrington Silver Band

orrington Silver Band are sad to inform you that this year’s Massed Bands concert, with our friends at Appledore Band and Bideford Town Band, will unfortunately have to be postponed due to the current situation. The concert was in the early stages of planning when band rehearsals had to come to a stop and lockdown began. But fear not, Massed Bands will return next year. Like many other local organisations, we were very disappointed that May Fair 2020 was unable to go ahead this year. Great Torrington May Fair and Carnival are the band’s biggest events of the year. However, we were delighted to take part in Great Torrington’s Virtual May Fair 2020 and had lots of fun recording our pieces. It was lovely to look back at the photos of past May Fairs to help get us all in the spirit. If you miss hearing the band, then why not check out our YouTube channel for videos of past concerts? Torrington Silver Band

and New Rd have stood up well. The mulch provided last autumn by Coastal Recycling has stood the plants in good stead. Finally, for a glimpse of flowers and gardens do look at our Facebook page. Sally Ramsden, Hon Chair

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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

month! 'Hobson's Torrington In Bloom aven't From booked Your your Mayor… hopeprice by the time Silver-Gilt Winners push the Mayor’s Challenge so much he dates, time, 2011 thison article during lockdown, but I feel now is the mber are all the reaches Torrington in Bloom is delighted with you are time to pick this up again and encourage ont cover, you or all, pop the above result and would not have o theallPlough in and keeping well all residents of Great Torrington to been able to achieve erson. enjoying the eased it without the help and venture into town at least once a week he castrestrictions has been whilst support of local and support our local traders. They orking continuing hard under traders, groups and have all worked extremely hard to to adhere to e direction of Frank individuals, we would make shopping safe and welcoming, updated government lman, toguidelines. bring youI afor one likeamto thank you all. and I know they will all appreciate your emorable evening A list ofshops sponsors enjoying seeing our local backand support. Please feel free to share your acked with laughter. is available open and trading, supporters and look forward to purchases with me; it’s great to see enry continuing Hobson my is ‘Mayor’s on theChallenge’. noticeboard at what you are all able to find in Great pleby, who alongside t h e fore n t r aremain n c e t o t hTorrington. e council Whilst official duties me finds time to write offices/1646. quiet, I am now back to work and I would like to give a shout out to Maya es on our website is Britain in Bloom’s definition of enjoying that little This"...now is the time to encourage and Megan’s World on's eldest daughter what constitutes silver-gilt level: sense of normality of Sweetness – two allGood’ residents of Great sible one, is Sara ‘Very (75-84% mark) Torrington – a high again. I have r, 'bumptious' sisters to venture into town least once young entrepreneurs standard entry, which meetsatvirtually however taken this who have recently and Jo Wood. Neil all of the judging criteria and includes a week and support our local set up their own opportunity to use as Willie Mossop, sections of exceptionally high traders." speak to standards. two business selling Moore, Zoom plays to Albert, Exemplifies best practice in Rotary clubs (Winchester Taunton candy floss and other sweet treats! They ckie. Joyce Ridgwell multiple and areas and demonstrates very Vale) my journey h and this willabout be her h i g h topbecoming o t e n t i a l f o r set c oup n t ioutside n u i n g our town hall on the 4th I am of my great July and had a very successful day. I ith TP. Mayor and how proud development and sustainable effort. town. talk judges’ about my really do wish them both all the success members, butIt was verygreat toThe comments were positive ny Bedinetz, Colinmeet in journey and lotsmany of newareas, people that, for their future too: ‘Torrington in and their candy floss is Puttick without and Esther virtual technology, would havea lot during just delicious! Bloom has learned the last ng Richard beenPitt, a lotwho harder year to organise. At thetoTown and youWhilst have Ithe potential be a Council we are getting g very am Welsh in 'A very meetings, strong entry. missing face-to-face there 1646 used tocentre holding our meetings online, in Wales' toseem a very year and although is a valuable does to be aimproves sense of each convenience it was very strange to chair lane. to online meetings! asset to the town. a Dartington’s Full Council meeting whilst sitting ere couldSaturday not be 4th a July (Crystal) saw the grounds biggest wereonamyvaluable sofa! As you can see from the the unsung heroes addition to and the route. flowerbed at news, we have remained change in restrictions so far, it was TheTown Council I wish good I could list all S&G is a vast improvement. The to see the town busy and people very busy and are working closely with shopping local while adhering to social Torridge District and Devon County distancing. I have been mindful not to Councils.

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By the time this reaches you all, weather permitting, I’ll have finally completed my charity tandem skydive. Writing this, and with two weeks left to go, feeling very apprehensive is a bit of an understatement! However, I am also excited and, like I have heard many others say, that once I’m out of the plane, I’m sure I will love it! Please do not hesitate to get in contact if you need anything at all, I hope you enjoy August and September and I’ll be back to update you in the October edition. Keeley Allin – Mayor of Great Torrington

Town Council Awards 2020

his year the Town Council has awarded the Howe Plate to Pauline Baker, in recognition of all that she has done and continues to do supporting the May Fair and Carnival Committee. Upon being advised of the award Pauline said that she was pleased to accept this award and stressed that thanks must go to all her colleagues on the May Fair & Carnival Committee, past and present, for their hard work and commitment throughout the year to ensure the May Fair celebrations and the Carnival are such an amazing success. Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

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WN COUNCIL NEWS Your Council, Working for YOU

Reopening of Great Torrington Local Applications for Grant Aid reat Torrington Town Council administers the Commons Allotment Charity. Town Council Managed Each year the charity allocates its small amount of funds to locally based Play areas This notice was prepared on 9th July 2020 reat Torrington Town Council manages three play areas in the town: Trafalgar Play Area, Greenbank Play Area and Jubilee Close Play Area as well as the Skate Park in Calf Street. The Prime Minister announced on 23rd June that playgrounds could reopen from 4th July, providing the owners/operators considered it safe to do so. Using Government guidance issued at the end of June, the Council is conducting a Covid-19 Risk Assessment of these areas to determine what measures will need to be implemented in order to minimise the risk of potential transmission once they reopen. These measures will include the implementation of separate entrance and exit gates and new signage to remind users of the following: * Keep a safe distance (ideally 2 metres) at all times * Wash hands thoroughly before & after play: bring your own hand sanitiser * Only one adult to attend with each set of siblings * Equipment should only be used by one family at a time * Please dispose of all litter in bins

community groups. In addition, there are a number of Precept Grants awarded every year. Applications for either/both grant types during the year 2021/2022 are now open and the application form can be obtained electronically via the Great Torrington Town Council website (www.great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk) or in paper format from the Council office. Please contact Charlotte Kirby, Assistant Town Clerk on 01805 626135 between 9am and 1pm Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday or email her on admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk for more information. Please ensure completed applications are submitted no later than 12 noon on Thursday 10th September 2020. Covid19 Funding Pot In addition to the grants for next financial year, the Town Council has set aside a relatively small pot of funding for grants towards expenditure of any local community groups who are struggling due to loss/reduced income streams as a result of the impact of COVID19. Applications will be considered on an individual and ongoing basis over the next few months. Application forms for this funding can be obtained via our website, or via the Council’s contacts as set out above and address below. Karen Chapman, Town Clerk Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, South Street Great Torrington, Devon EX38 8AA

provided or take it home * Use of this playground equipment is done at your own risk The three play areas and skate park will therefore remain closed until the Council is confident it can facilitate their safe usage and appropriate signage has been arranged. We kindly remind parents/guardians/carers and children not to use the play areas whilst they remain closed to ensure we all stay as

safe as we can. As soon as the play areas and skate park are considered safe to reopen, we will update our website and Facebook page to advise. We thank you for your cooperation during this challenging time. Please keep an eye out on our website and Facebook page for further updates.

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Covid-19 Update

This notice was prepared on 8 July 2020 ast month we reported on activity practice. taking place prior to the reopening In late June we were advised that the of non-essential retail shops in District Council would be considering a the Town Centre. Since then we have motion to allow a further two months’ free had further lifting of restrictions and as parking in town centre car parks across we write this, we await to see how it all the district, at a C&R meeting on the 13th works out in the July. Along with "We are continually thankful to these raising awareness long-term. volunteers who faithfully undertake with local Following the this work, and have done since the businesses in the easing to-date, we have continued end of March when we initially went town centre, the to work with into lockdown. They have brilliantly Town Council sent Torridge District and quietly beavered away in the a letter of support and Devon County to the District Councils and have background, meeting needs across Council in respect the whole community. " extended signage of this motion. to stencilling the pavements, increased The GTTC Covid Task Force continues signage and introduced a planter in to be in full swing, as volunteers a parking bay to allow for increased continue to shop, deliver shopping and pedestrian access and distancing from prescriptions and undertake social phone people queuing. All of these measures calling. At the present time, we are have been undertaken to encourage advised that shielding will no longer be safe distancing and enhance safety necessary from August; we will keep an measures, but are open to review and eye on the current situation and review we very much welcome feedback. arrangements according to current and On 1st July a second Zoom meeting ongoing government updates. We are was hosted by Torridge District Council to continually thankful to these volunteers which all retailers were invited. GTTC’s who faithfully undertake this work, and technician hand delivered notices of have done since the end of March when this meeting to businesses in the town we initially went into lockdown. They centre, the week prior to the meeting. We have brilliantly and quietly beavered continue to work with Torridge District away in the background, meeting needs and Devon County Councils on these across the whole community. Another matters, keeping up to date with the example of what makes this town so latest Government guidance and taking ‘Great’. into consideration feedback on how If you have any suggestions you any adaptations made are working in would like to share with the Council on

how we can continue to make our town safer during the coronavirus outbreak, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01805 626135 or e-mail admin@ great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk. Please note: The Council telephones are manned on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays only.

Abbeyfield

he residents have all kept well and cheerful during lockdown. At the end of June they started to meet up with their families and loved ones out in the garden; some visitors travelling from Cornwall and from London. The summer house and garden have been enjoyed by all and we certainly picked the right week to get the ball rolling, with beautiful weather. Some residents have ventured further afield than the garden, to the Secret Garden at Castle Hill and to Rack Park. The garden has started to yield some of the fruits that we have been growing. It is our first year and so far we have picked strawberries and raspberries. There are a few tomato and courgette plants coming on too! Volunteers have missed visiting the house and by the time you read this hope to be back visiting and helping again. The staff have done a brilliant job throughout this difficult time and are a wonderful team!

From Your County Councillor…

nce again I would like to start this article by thanking everyone in Torrington Rural for the part you are all playing to overcome the coronavirus. This past month we have seen the re-opening of more shops, facilities and businesses, and I pay tribute to all those who have worked so hard to re-open safely in this difficult climate. It would be an understatement to say that it has been an extremely difficult three months, and while the threat of the virus has not gone away, we should be conscious that Devon has had one of the lowest numbers of recorded coronavirus infections in the country. Out of the 150 ‘upper tier’ Local Authorities in the country, Devon is ranked 149 out of 150 for the rates of Covid-19 in the population. Only North East Lincolnshire has a lower rating! Nevertheless, to keep these numbers down it is vital we keep up the collective effort to defeat the virus. Please continue to follow social distancing and keep washing your hands regularly. Follow the regulations and guidance and stay alert. If we continue to do this, then the virus will be controlled, and our infection rates will remain very low. With the further easing of lockdown restrictions, I know people have been concerned that the increase of visitors

to our area could cause a second spike or ‘wave’ of infections. However, it is precisely because our numbers of infections have been so low that we are in a good position to both welcome back tourists to the County, and deal swiftly and effectively with any local outbreaks. The County Council has now launched its ‘Local Outbreak Management Plan’ which will place the Council at the forefront of containing any local outbreaks. DCC will work with the national ‘Track and Trace’ service to identify the contacts of any positive cases, and will use the data gathered to take whatever steps needed to help contain the virus. DCC has an excellent relationship with Public Health England and has been receiving high quality and up-to-date data throughout the pandemic. An ‘outbreak’ will generally be defined as two or more cases in separate households recorded in a community. Obviously the circumstances will vary in each scenario, but a range of actions can be taken: from tracking and tracing, isolating work places, deploying more community/mobile testing and so on, to ensure that any local outbreak is contained effectively without the need to enforce a local lockdown as we’ve seen in Leicester. It is also worth pointing out that the circumstances in Leicester are completely different to what we have seen in Devon and in Torridge. There the City was starting to see daily new cases of over 80 a day before its lockdown. These were driven by several factors including local employment conditions

and very densely populated housing, factors that we generally do not have in Devon. Locally, in the Torridge District, we have seen just 49 cases overall (as of July 7th) with the last recorded case being a single case on May 19th. County wide we are now seeing the 7-day rolling average of less than one new case a week. You have to go back to May 28th for the last time the County recorded a double digit increase of infections, which was 12 new cases. Since then the County has recorded either four or less new cases a day. Long may these local trends continue. Finally, our local and County wide hospital capacity remains good, and with 120 additional beds becoming available in the Nightingale Hospital, Devon and the South West overall should be well prepared. As we start to emerge and rebuild following the lockdown, attention will undoubtedly turn to the economy and Devon County Council is publishing an Economic Recovery Plan which I hope we can draw on locally. However, I will write about that and other issues in future articles. I hope though this article has provided reassurance about our local situation with the coronavirus and that while we must remain vigilant and alert, we will be able to enjoy a safe and healthy summer. Stay safe, and as ever if there are any County Council issues you would like to contact me about you can ring me on 07886 446560 or email andrew.saywell@ devon.gov.uk.

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Good Memories

his photo was taken at Bluecoat School, Barley Grove in 1929. It has been shared with us by Eric Bond, who was born at 34 Calf Street in 1921 and will be 99 in September. He has fond memories of his school days in Torrington. Back Row: Jimmy Drayton, Wilfred Lethbridge, Victor Folland, Percy Pettijohns, Charlie Bennett, Percy Slade, Ralph Mitchell, Roy Copp, Reg Hodge Middle Row: Dinky Stacey, Phyllis Jury, Ruby Ayre, Gladys Reddaway, Dorry Bessow, Muriel Weeks, Phyllis Edwards, Fanny Cudmore Front Row: Norman Jordan, Eric Bond, Whippet Mules, Percy Hodge, Wally Mules, Albert Darch, Johnny Allen, Kenneth Mitchell

Royston Victor George Henry Drayton

s a result of my article in the July edition of 'The Crier', I was informed that Mr Drayton was definitely not buried in Torrington Cemetery. Having been advised in May by Bideford Town Council that, had he been cremated, it would have most likely have been at the North Devon Crematorium, I contacted the crematorium who replied as follows: "Royston Victor George Henry Drayton was cremated here at the North Devon Crematorium on the 2nd April 1984, and his ashes were taken away by the funeral director R Gist and Son the next day." I then contacted the funeral director who informed me that the ashes were placed in his mother's grave (Mabel Ellen Maud Drayton) in Merton churchyard. His father's remains (John Walter James Drayton) are in the same grave. All the above details have been passed to his Faroese grandson. The purpose of this is 'to close the loop' so to speak, and to thank you all for the advice and details you provided. Maj Tony Barnes

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Notable Buildings in Torrington Part Two

astle Street is an attractive reputedly modelled on street off the main square, the Cabinet Room at consisting of old cottages and Number 10 Downing substantial houses. At the top of the Street. The gazebo, street on the left is Castle House, now which used to be a care home. This grand, late 18th in the back garden, century house, with its recessed Greek fell into disrepair Doric porch (now closed in) and deep and was dismantled balcony with iron balustrade and canopy, and re-erected at was once the home of Mrs Elizabeth Rosemoor. Deane (nĂŠe Johnson), one of the nieces Between the of the artist, Sir Joshua Reynolds. She alms-houses (built modelled for him as 'Fortitude', one of in 1843) and the the Virtues in his memorial window at Royal Exchange pub New College Chapel, Oxford. is number 88 New Another house in Torrington with Street, a substantial connections to Joshua Reynolds is stone house built in Palmer House in New Street, which is around 1860. The one of the town's most historic buildings house extends a and has been called a 'house of style long way out to the back and part of the and consequence'. It was built in building was once used as a small glove 1752 by John Palmer, an attorney who factory. Local people have said the was several times Mayor and whose house was known as 'The Hermitage' wife, Mary, was the eldest sister of or 'The Retreat' at different times in the Joshua Reynolds. The artist visited past. During the Second World War her occasionally at Torrington and, American soldiers were billeted there, on one visit in including a Native "One of the reception rooms is 1762, he was American who used accompanied by Dr reputedly modelled on the Cabinet to sit at an upstairs Samuel Johnson, Room at Number 10 Downing Street. window, smoking the famous The gazebo, which used to be in the a pipe and looking lexicographer, back garden, fell into disrepair and out at the street. author and critic. was dismantled and re-erected at Many years later, Reynolds' portrait old rough-spun Rosemoor." of Mary is in the shirts were found in Cottonian Library, Plymouth. Successive the attic which may well have belonged generations of the Palmer family lived to the soldiers. in Palmer House until 1870, and the In 1946 the Town Trustees, who owned family's coat of arms can still be seen in the house at that time, sold it to Audrey stained glass in the window on the halfSharpe for ÂŁ2,200 and she lived there for landing. One of the reception rooms is 50 years. She had a little car which she

used to park in the passageway behind the double wooden doors. She let the large room at the back (the former glove factory) to the Catholics for their services and for a Sunday school before a new church was built in Gas Lane in 1964. A bell, hanging on an outside wall in the yard, would summon the worshippers. The town band also used this room for practice at one time. As well as the shirts in the attic, previous owners of the house found love letters dating from the 1930s hidden away in the roof, under the stairs and fireplace, addressed to 'Darling' and 'My Own Dearest'. We'll never know who the participants in this correspondence were and what became of their romance. Moira Brewer

1st Torrington Scout Group

ome things are starting to come out of lockdown but, Scout and Cub meetings at the local hut are not yet one of them. So Zoom meetings are still carrying on, and getting better with each meeting. Cubs were lucky enough to have great weather for completing their athletics badge via Zoom. Tennis balls had to be thrown overarm, underarm and plenty of running was done. Interestingly, a relay race was held, a little disjointed but it was good fun. As we are unsure when Cubs will be able to meet again, it was decided that our new Cubs could be invested via Zoom. We welcome Charlie, William, Thomas, Evie, Stanley, Olly, Heath and Rory. They all said the Promise beautifully, and had an envelope to open on the night which contained their certificate. Smiles all round. Some of our Beavers have moved up to join Cubs. We welcome Phineas, Esther, Harry, Tadgh, Ethan and Howi to the group. Scouts have been getting more inventive with their Zoom meetings. One evening they all made spaghetti bolognaise, working through the recipe step by step, yummy. Also, the Scouts have been stepping up with a chance to plan and run meetings, with a view to doing this more in the future. If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Cubs aged 8-10, or Scouts aged 10-14, or if you feel you may be interested in helping out in anyway please contact Jordon on email Jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Parish Church News

hurch life, along with our daily lives and the activities of schools, businesses, organisations and leisure has been radically affected by these virus times. Church buildings have been closed so church communities everywhere have found new ways of worshipping and communicating. A new on-line public from far and wide has joined streamed and recorded Services from The Vicarage. Commitment to the virtual community will continue. But â&#x20AC;&#x153;virtual faithâ&#x20AC;? online, is no substitute for the physical faith of being together. In the near 1000 year history of St. Michael's Church so interlinked with our Town's life, lockdown has prevented any Holy Communion (Eucharist / Mass) Service. The first priest, Humphrey, was here in 1253 but a Christian community was here long before that. Apart from when the Church was blown up in 1646, and perhaps during times of war, there have been very very few occasions when Holy Communion has not been celebrated inside the Church building! Churches are now permitted to re-open their buildings for public worship again, under special arrangements, as in the hospitality industry. What has been missed during lockdown with all its deprivations and sacrifices? A Church is a special, indeed holy place for a whole community to celebrate life events. Many people have not been able to say goodbye to family and friends who have died in the way that they would have wished. This has caused a great deal of heartache for huge numbers of people. At the time of writing this, there can be no singing of songs or hymns or bells rung, but I am hopeful these restrictions will be lifted soon and we can begin to arrange fitting memorial gatherings for those whom we have lost. Memorial services can take many forms, tailored to individual wishes, with music, readings, songs, poems. Please get in touch if you would like to hold a memorial to celebrate the life of a loved one. Weddings, Baptisms and Funerals are now permitted in Church, but with limited attendance and some other restrictions. It is a way forward that we have to adapt to, but be assured, Church is here for you, as am I. With all good wishes, Peter Revd. Peter Bevan, Vicar of Great & Little Torrington, Frithelstock & Taddiport 01805 622166

The Treasure of Phalerum Year 7: Writing our own Greek myth

t was a blazing hot day, the sun was high in the sky and the water was sparkling like a gleaming diamond across the bay of Phalerum. The streets where crowded with busy market holders and buyers were looking for their next meal. The short, olive skinned, adolescent Phillipio was casting his fishing rod in the bay, like a frog catching flies with its tongue, when he looked up to see the most beautiful Princess in the world, Priscilla. She was stood on her large, tiled balcony looking out at the crystal blue ocean. Suddenly, the blanket of dreaming he was wrapped in was pulled apart when something caught hold of his fishing rod. He was pulled into the bay and went in circles under the water surface numerous times and then he saw a sparkling pile of treasure sat beneath the waves. Just at that moment, he was suddenly bobbing on the water like a duck. The princess laughed and went back inside. Phillipio could not stop thinking about what had happened that day. The treasure, the princess, and the fish he had let go. He realised he was madly in love with the princess, but how would she be able to fall in love with a peasant boy like him? At once, he remembered the shiny gold and diamonds at the bottom of the deep, blue sea and wondered if he could take it for himself to make the princess love him. The young man knew the dangers of going out into the bay as many fishermen on boats had been swallowed completely by the monster, whose name was Protogent. The monster who lived in the bay was made by Poseidon to protect his treasures at the bottom of the bay. This monster had two lion faces that fired

water jets to push her enemies away. She then wrapped her prey up in her tail and diced them up with her sharp tail fin and her claws. This giant could also swim extremely fast. Faster than any boats could. She had a feisty personality and could sniff out the sneakiest of people. Bravely, Phillipio decided he was going to attempt this dangerous activity. He had been planning for days on how to defeat the monster. He had hired a small fishing boat and taken a small wooden dagger. He was worried but was sure that his plans were not going to fail. A few minutes later, he was bobbing in the middle of the water when his boat was suddenly picked up and he realised he was halfway to the sky like a bird flying in the air. It was an intense battle scene with Phillipio struggling to win. And, then, the tide turned, and the boy was winning! He was poised to plunge his dagger into the monsterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart but just at that moment, the monster started pleading for her life and was beginning to sob her heart out. Phillipio felt bad and his sympathy got the better of him. After some talks, they compromised that if he did not kill her, she would not hurt any more people and every person in the town would be given one piece of gold each year from then on. After sailing himself back to shore in a damaged boat, crowds had gathered on the harbour to welcome Phillipio back. At first, they were ashamed that he had not killed the monster but after they heard the adolescentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s explanation they were thrilled. The young man was worried the princess would never love him now but instead she loved him even more for

his kind heart and sympathy. They soon married and moved in together. They named their first child, Protogent! The moral of this story is that you do not need to be wealthy for people to fall in love with you. Ben May, Year 7

Year 8 have been doing a wonderful job studying Romeo and Juliet from a distance! They have been learning about the style and format of sonnets and having a go at writing their own... Sonnet

Shall I compare thou art a summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day, The way the eye shimmer in the sun light. And the way that your blond hair gently sways. As well the way that the smile tis bright. Your loving voice makes me so very happy, And that determination you have got. Long walks we had walking through the valley, Whilst the sun was still extremely hot. When you say something lots of people laugh, But when you cry lots of people get sad I want you to always be in my path. When I met you, I was so very glad. You will be forever very beautiful, And your talent is very musical. Isaac Algar, Year 8

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he rope around my waist was starting to slip. Each time I heaved myself up, I could feel the knot loosen, but I wouldn’t tighten it. That was not a risk I was willing to take. Instead I grabbed a different ledge, one that was sturdy and easy to grip… or so I thought. It crumbled beneath my itchy fingers, kissing my knuckles with vicious grazes. The blood from these new cuts felt warm in my hand as it trickled down my fingers. I bit my tongue against the burning pain. Now only being supported by my other arm, I reached for a different rock. Good. This one stayed and supported my weight. And though it scarred my palms with cruel blisters, the sharp, gritting stone was a pleasant cool to my sweating hands. The breeze from this height was still a breath that whipped my hair across my face, dusty and calm; a quiet wind. I had been climbing for god knows how long, but I daren’t look down. Instead I look up or to the side. To the side, mountains slept in piles of ancient stone, halos of sunlight silhouetted their brawny figures. Below, a gold river ran, sparkling like a jewel, encrusted with dashes of sunlight. On either side ran forest fir trees, green and proud, their colours standing out against the mountains aged complexion. The world seemed filtered. A pink haze from the sky above. I stopped before each curve of the cliff to look across this view, to marvel at the beauty. But never for too long. My fingers soon yearned for the grasp of a different rock, and I kept moving. Now the cliff stretched high over my head, looking down on me like as a giant would a bug. A new wind picked up speed, causing crumbs of broken stone to pierce my head. One got in my eye and I cursed loudly for all to hear. Blinking away the pain, I reached, far, for a solid ridge. I rearranged my feet, positioning myself for yet another heave. Then legs tense, feet ready, arms secure and rope un-tightened, I heaved myself into another climb. This time I had to be careful. The cliff was beginning to curve over my head, and my lower half would no longer be able to support me. I now had to trust my upper strength to pull me up. One foot was off. Now the other. The curve was steep and felt sudden. My hand reached for a mottled hole in the stone and I gripped, hard. The bumpy ridges beginning to cut my palms. Locked in place, I began to contort my body so my other hand could reach behind my head. I grasped a nearby boulder, whose edges seemed strong and supporting, but still sent a shower of pebbles down onto my face. I clung tight, unwilling to let go, soon hanging there, my muscles screeching under skin. Each time I moved along the of the cliff, I forced myself not to look down. Instead, the halo behind the mountains was my new attraction, bright and gleaming, like the stars in a twilight. It gave me courage, perhaps a reason to induce this pain and risk. Jessica Parker, Year 10

A sonnet by Balthasar (Romeo’s servant) to Rosaline (not a servant) A sonnet for Rosaline

My Rosaline you inspire me to write, As a servant my love is forbidden, Invading my mind through the day and night, Ever dreaming of you I stay hidden, My words are lost when I glance upon you, I love your thoughtful, kind and caring ways, Your beautiful smile and your eyes deep blue, I will love you forever and always, Although I know our love can never be, My heart will belong to you forever, I wish for you to be happy and free, Your joy and kindness will leave me never, Now I must away with a broken heart, Knowing that always we must be apart. Reuben Shaw, Year 8

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Where Has ‘Garfield Cat’ Gone?

Who remembers the ginger Garfield cat? Who’d not only catch mice but also a rat, He’s a ‘big old boy’ with a square shaped head, And his actual given name was Fudge instead. He lived on a farm until a stray drove him away, So he roamed near Torrington night and day. But I would often see him near the rugby club, And he would attend the game wanting to be a sub. I am hoping that someone took pity and took him in, As he was so loving - especially if tickled under his chin. If anyone can help with my quest to know he’s ok, Even if he’s ‘passed’ and not here, now today. Any sightings or knowledge of his history to date, Would be much appreciated to just know his fate. Please pass any information to the lovely Crier team As it would be great to know, where he may now dream. Linda Bealey

Businesses What Next After Lock Down?

t the time of writing (8th July 2020) businesses have started to re-open after the lockdown and are beginning to experience what ‘the new norm’ might be like. I do really hope that, at the time of reading, the virus has continued to retreat. There have been significant changes to the Job Retention Scheme (JRS) and the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) has been extended. The JRS is set to end on 31st October 2020 with the value of the grants diminishing from 1st August 2020. Whilst the SEISS has been extended, it has been confirmed to be the final payment. The application process for the second SEISS grant is set to come live on 17th August 2020. So, with the lockdown easing and the above-mentioned support schemes coming to an end in the autumn, where does that leave business? Uncertainty is undoubtedly going to be a major factor in the short to medium term. This is likely to be seen in terms of the ongoing impact of Covid-19, job losses, lending attitudes and the potential impact of Brexit. The Chancellor has today announced a number of measures designed to protect jobs and support the hospitality sector including: * A reduction in VAT for the hospitality and tourism sectors from 20% to 5% from 15th July 2020 to 12th January 2021. * A ‘Job Retention Bonus’ payable to employers who bring back previously furloughed staff and keep them continuously employed throughout the period 1st November 2020 to 31st January 2021 If conditions are met, employers can claim a bonus of £1,000 per employee brought back from furlough. * A new ‘Kickstart Scheme’ designed to encourage employers to create new jobs for 16 to 24 years olds. This will potentially pay up to 6 months wages along with an overhead contribution. * Payments of £1,000 to employers to take on new trainees.

On the Commons…

uly - the school holidays are the best time for children to explore the Commons. If you can sit quietly you may spot many types of birds, including green woodpeckers, gold finches, blue tits and the wonderful buzzards soaring above. Or if you prefer to run about and climb, well there is plenty of room for that too! I’m sure many of our older readers remember doing exactly the same in their youth! Let’s hope the sun shines and we can all get out there with picnics and enjoy our lovely Commons at their best. This month we need to say thank you to Bill Grainger for running a very entertaining quiz in Taddiport Village Hall, with the proceeds coming to the Commons. It was much appreciated, and of course, thanks to everyone who turned up to support it. One job you might see us out and about doing this month is Himalayan Balsam pulling. This non-native and invasive plant has become dominant in some areas near the river, and with limited volunteer time, we aim to stop it spreading in to new areas, while chipping away at the larger patches. If you walk along the canal side path to the west of Reed’s field you will see some path work where we are raising a section of path which is more bog than path for much of the year. This will make the canal path much more accessible for everyone. Dates for your diary include August 24th Cavalier Fun Day – always a great afternoon – live music, beer tent, bouncy castles etc. October 12th Auction of Promises - if anyone has any offers of any services or prizes we could auction please contact Sue Harrison on 07885 510 400. Mandy Harrison, Chair GTCC * Payments of £2,000 to employers to create new apprenticeships. * Payments of £1,500 to employers to create new apprenticeships for the over 25s. * Green Homes Grants – these will be available to home owners and landlords and are designed to make homes more energy efficient and create local jobs. * Increasing the stamp duty land tax threshold from £125,000 to £500,000. * An ‘Eat Out To Help Out Discount’ – for August only, a novel idea to encourage people to eat out! Despite the above, I think we can all acknowledge that running our businesses is going to be tough for a good while, and this will likely involve making some tough decisions for some of us. In the past, there were things that businesses would do to be successful, and it might be that these must now be done to survive such as:* Review sales prices and increase these where necessary to maintain margin. * Consider changes in your market place and adapt to take advantage of opportunities or minimise loss. * Review staffing levels. * Operate effective credit control and policies in order to maintain cashflow and

minimise exposure to bad debts. * Review and cut out unnecessary costs. * Forecast and plan cashflows. * Plan ahead wherever possible. * Get the right advice and act soon enough if change is needed. The above list is of course not exhaustive. Above all, we all need to continue to act responsibly and maintain social distancing and other precautions so as to ensure that every business has a fighting chance of recovering, even if that path to recovery is going to be tough. A second wave of infection would be disastrous both in terms of the human impact and the impact it would have on our livelihoods. Above all stay safe and support local businesses! As Chartered Accountants, we are experienced in helping our clients through difficult circumstances and decisions and we are here to support you. If you have any questions or need assistance. Contact Keith Berry on 01805 628122 or email keith.berry@ berrysaccountants.co.uk Keith Berry FCA (Berrys, Chartered Accountants)

ast month saw the rescue receive an incredible number of adoption applications – well in excess of 500 which we have never seen. Many of my fans will know that the rescue is run by volunteers, and it is still the case at the moment that we are not having volunteers on site, in order to minimise the risk from Covid-19. As a result it has not been possible for all of these enquiries to receive personal replies, as in addition there havs been a tremendous amount of telephone enquiries, so Aunty Lynne has asked me to apologise on her behalf and thank you for your patience and understanding. Rescues all around the country have been reporting a similar surge in people wanting to adopt dogs – Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who we are partners with, are reportedly receiving over 5,000 a week! It is, of course, great that people want to bring a dog into their home, however it has led sadly to the resurgence of smuggling puppies in from overseas, which were born in dreadful conditions and are being sold at extortionate prices. Aunty Lynne wants everyone to be very careful if you buy a puppy, so that you aren’t tricked into buying from these people. If you are going to buy a puppy make sure it’s from a reputable breeder. Be alert – ask questions; make sure you see both the mum and the dad, check out the

just email lynne@k9focus.co.uk. I am also pleased that the kennels have now reopened for day care and boarding and so I will soon have lots of other friends to play with. As we said before, it has been a really hard time with no income for the rescue and so all monies received form the day care and boarding will go to paperwork to make sure it is legitimate looking after all the rescue woofs. You and if you are suspicious report it can find details of all our onsite facilities to Trading Standards. at www.k9focus.co.uk. Reputable breeders will have Last month the lovely no issue with these questions Brian went off to his new being asked! home along with Basil and It is really nice that during Oli and so it is a little quieter lockdown more rescue dogs here at the kennels! Oli was were being adopted, but I do found as a stray and sadly worry for these poor puppies he wasn’t wearing a collar, and wonder what will become he was microchipped but of them now that people are it wasn’t registered and so going back to work. Many his owner couldn’t be found. of the dogs that come and It is also vital to check join me here at the rescue are around your pet’s chip details with the relevant 18 months, which is the age when many microchip company to make sure it is dogs take on their juvenile behaviour registered with your up-to-date details. I – I remember I was a little terror at that do wonder whether Oli’s original owners age – not the well-rounded, sociable are still looking for him! dog that I am now! At that age I was a Although my friends have left to go to little nervous of most things, as I hadn’t their new home, there is still plenty of been introduced to many other dogs and activity with all the work being done on some dogs didn’t understand that when the new compound and kennels, which I bowled up to them, I only wanted to should be completed this month along play and so they would growl, and then with our new onsite shop, so exciting I would growl back and then fur would times for the rescue after the hard early fly. I worry that so many pups adopted start to the year. Let’s hope that the during lockdown may now be facing an second half of the year is a really good outside world they have not had any one, and that lots of rescue dogs find exposure to and will be very frightened. homes. The good news is that Aunty Lynne is Enjoy the summer and I will be back now offering some puppy socialisation with you in the autumn, until then this is classes here at the rescue, as well as Fabulous Freddie signing off with woofs classes for us more mature woofs. If you and licks. are interested in receiving details then

The Rotary Club of Great Torrington

Cavaliers Column Chapter 6

hort and sweet this month, as we are still pretty restricted as to what we can Why not get in touch and find out and can’t do on the Bonfire site. That more? said, a few Cavaliers will begin some work e all hope everyone in Great shortly just tidying up the area, strimming the Torrington is continuing to last three months’ grass growth, making safe stay safe, and we would like and concentrating on ensuring the ship will be to extend thanks to those who have winter proof. worked on the frontline as key workers Discussions amongst the group will also in all areas during the pandemic, and have to take place in the not-too-distant future, to those who have volunteered to help to decide what preparations we will have to vulnerable members of our community. do with regard to our November Bonfire event It’s fantastic to see our usual community at the Rugby Club, the Christmas Giveaway spirit shining through. event in December and New Year’s Eve. It Our club has been virtual for a few seems ridiculous that we have to think of these months now, and we have been very things now, bearing in mind it is only July, but pleased to have been able to stay all of these take a great deal of planning and connected with one another during this we are still unsure how this dreadful situation time. Whilst club events have been we are all in will evolve over the coming months. very limited, we have been continuing On a more positive note, we are pleased that The Commons has now rethe friendship that comes with being a opened and the trickle of visitors to view the work on The Mayflower so far is now Rotarian, and also raising money for the increasing. We have also been fortunate in that some visitors help out by placing North Devon Hospice. Thanks to our small amounts in our donation pot (emptied daily!) which is our only source of now Immediate Past President, Stephen regular income albeit only small. A Town Council grant, a generous private donation Saywell, for organising quizzes and and proceeds from The Torrington World Championship Cavaliers’ Pumpkin games for us all to enjoy. th Competition have also helped to ‘steady the ship’. We are very grateful for these On 30 June, Sarah Colquhoun acts of kindness and support. officially took over as President and, We were unable to celebrate our 50th Anniversary this year, but were humbled by although things may be different for a while, members are looking forward to an the numerous congratulatory messages received on our Facebook pages. Thanks to those contributors! enjoyable year ahead and are eager for Please take a look at our Facebook pages for any up-to-date information, a time when we can again hold events in and don’t forget your Bonfire tickets, available online or through Duffy’s Home the community. Hardware in the square. We all want to thank Stephen Saywell More next time. ‘All for one and one for all.’ for his hard work and dedication over Ace the last 12 months as President. We thoroughly enjoyed a very different If you are reading this and would like to who are keen to serve their community year, and hope he can now take some know more about Rotary, and our club in and further afield. well-deserved rest – although he may particular, please do not hesitate to get For membership enquiries contact have gained a new title of Entertainment in contact; we’d love to hear from you secretary@torrington.rotary1175.org. Secretary! Keeley Allin, President Elect and are always looking for new members

Dafforn & Son

&n Dafforn r o ff a D & Son Roger P. Byrom

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The Crier Prize Crossword The winner of this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crossword will win a bouquet of flowers from Dafforn & Son Funeral Directors. Please send completed crossword with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail. com. The winner of last issueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prize is Veronica Hooper The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 9th September and the solution and winner will be in the October issue.

We are delighted to offer the prize of a bouquet of flowers for the Crossword winner this month, and take this opportunity to tell you a little more about Dafforn & Son. Everyone relies on a Funeral Director to bring sensitivity, knowledge and compassion to funeral arrangements, and our friendly team is available to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our Torrington branch is manned by Laura Cooper, Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm. Dafforn & Son is a branch of RPB Funerals Ltd, independently owned and managed funeral directors. RPB Funerals Ltd was formed by Roger P Byrom and his wife, Paula, following the purchase of two funeral homes from the Co-op 10 years ago, L Clarke & Sons and Dafforn & Son. In 2018 we opened our third office, R P Byrom & Son in Barnstaple. Roger has been involved in the funeral industry since 1997 and was joined by his son, Chris, in 2010. Roger started working at L Clarke & Sons in 2001 when it was owned by the Co-op. In this time Roger gained a Diploma in Funeral Directing, he became an assessor within the Co-op training programme, and worked with the company's Standards Department. Chris is an active member of the business and his knowledge and skills are growing, including a Diploma with the British Institute of Embalmers. We also offer Golden Charter funeral plans, allowing you to choose the funeral you want and take care of the funeral costs in advance. Pop in to Dafforn & Sons or give Laura a call on 01805 622263 to find out more.

Volunteer Work Parties on The Rolle Canal This Summer

lthough the programme of Rolle Canal guided walks had to be cancelled this season for obvious reasons, followers on Facebook and the Rolle Canal Society website will be aware that the first easing of lockdown restrictions saw the resumption of small, socially distanced, work parties at certain restoration sites along the canal. The sea lock at Annery Kiln, Weare Giffard, where the canal joins the River Torridge is in the ownership of Adrian and Hilary Wills, who are prominent members of the Society, so Adrian has been able to continue with his restoration work, initially on his own but lately with a small band of faithful volunteers who had been helping there for years before the epidemic interrupted progress. As visitors on previous years' walks have seen, the lock structure has been fully restored; one of the two pairs of lock gates is operational, and a small canal museum has been built in the style of a canal warehouse beside the lock. There is insufficient funding at present for the lower lock gates, but work is progressing on restoration of the quayside walls of the canal basin, where seagoing ships and barges would have transferred their cargoes into canal tub boats for passage inland to the Torrington area. A few more volunteer workers for masonry and bricklaying would always be welcome. Just a few hours once a week or whenever convenient would be a great help. See contact details below. Barely a mile inland from Sealock is the site of the Ridd Inclined Plane, where the canal is raised by about 42 feet (14

metres) from the maximum spring tide level of the estuary, to the height of the river upstream of Rosemoor where it was fed by a weir on the Torridge. Again, visitors on previous years' walks will have seen the remnants of the workings of the inclined plane, where the tub boats containing several tons of bulk cargo were hauled up the slope on rails into the upper basin of the canal, now running in a channel half way up the west side of the valley. The workings of this primitive boat lift are described on interpretative signs beside the Tarka Trail and a signposted path down to the lower level. Even with no organised visits this year, the canal basins need to be periodically cleared of undergrowth and the picnic site mown, which is more work for volunteers. Alongside Beam House, PGL youth activity holiday centre, the Rolle Canal crosses over the Torridge on the famous aqueduct (which fortunately does not have to be maintained by the Society volunteers!) and then skirts the east side of the valley, cut into the face of Furzebeam Hill, to reach the site of the more recent railway station at Staple Vale. The recent collapse of part of the embankment will probably need more engineering works than volunteers can tackle, but it has been possible to keep the canal path open to the public. This year the volunteers, unable to operate on the canal at Rosemoor, have managed to clear more undergrowth along the towpath and around the Roving Bridge at Beam, to enable users of the path to relate to the descriptions and illustrations on the interpretative boards.

At Rosemoor itself, lockdown restrictions have kept the gardens closed to the public and prevented any volunteer work on the canal basin, lime kilns and tucking mill for a while, but we hope some relaxation will soon allow resumption of the on-going works there. People who may have visited this site two or three years ago will hardly recognise the restored canal wharf and, before the lockdown, the volunteers working on the relics of the tucking mill were finding out more about its lay-out every week. You can see there is plenty of scope for volunteer workers keen to take part in any aspect of these projects. Hopefully, as lockdown eases further, we will see more potential volunteers getting in touch with our work party organisers, eager to join in, get their hands dirty (and wash them of course!) and share the excitement of discovering more details of the nineteenth century industrial sites we are working on. Look up the society web-site: www. rollecanalsociety.org (not to be confused with the Rolle Canal Company web-site) and look for 'Latest News' to see reports and pics of recent working parties. For details of forthcoming volunteering opportunities contact the society chairman Ian Harrison by email: halehillfarm@gmail.com, or call 01237 475707. For volunteering at the Sealock site contact Adrian Wills by email: adrian@ therollecanal.co.uk, or call 01237 477705. Chris Hassall

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

ith a steady increase in membership and increasingly super smooth ordering and admin, we've been turning our attention to adding new suppliers. Existing suppliers already include a British, organic naturopathic body care supplier, Irish sea vegetables, natural dog care and gravity water filters. As I write now in July, we're opening accounts with a green stationery company and with another supplying high quality stainless steel lunch boxes, flasks and cups. In choosing suppliers, we favour smaller companies, looking carefully at their environmental credentials and policies, the ease of communication, customer service and ethics. Our intention is to offer our members products that support a holistic life and do so at a competitive price that still generates a modest contribution towards OWBG funds. The long-term sustainability of the group depends upon our being self-financing – something I'm proud to say, we've been able to achieve for the past couple of years. Wellbeing Tip For many years now, endless amounts of research have shown that plant based diets are not only healthier but more sustainable. In recent times veganism has seen a huge surge, with many people recognizing it's a very practical and impactful way of reducing their environmental footprint and simultaneously improving their

own health and long-term prospects for wellbeing. But does a plant based diet alone guarantee these benefits? The answer to that is sadly no, not if it's rigidly applied with little or no understanding of balanced nutrition and the energetics of food and healing. Plant based eating isn't a rigid religion, it's a personal choice, and so naturally needs to accommodate our own personal tastes, our constitution, be suitable for the kind of work we do, the climate we live in and foods that are locally grown. So eating a plant based diet doesn't necessarily mean entirely giving up all your old favourite dishes, but instead learning how to adapt them to something that's broadly similar, delicious in its own unique way and that really does nurture and sustain your body and spirit. It's a process, a journey to be enjoyed for its own sake, not a strict regime or an overnight revolution – creativity and learning are never finished, after all. There are so many different ways of making plant based shepherd's pie, pizza, macaroni cheese, spaghetti bolognese and many other favourites we all enjoyed as children. So here's one I enjoy - Vegan Quiche. I find it easiest and most adaptable made as individual portions in large muffin trays. They freeze well and are great to take out and about or for when unexpected guests arrive. Ingredients: For the batter: 2tsp olive

oil, 300g chickpea flour, 3 cups water, 2tsp sea salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper. Filling: 3 cups or more lightly sauteed finely chopped vegetables eg onions, leeks, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes (reconstituted), artichoke hearts, chard, spinach, kale – just enjoy experimenting, 1-2 cloves garlic, herbs or spice of choice (turmeric is good and gives a lovely colour). Method: Soak the flour in the water overnight or for at least 2 hours. Add the oil and seasoning, whisk. Preheat a hot oven – around Gas 7. Using a large silicon muffin tray, half fill each section with batter, then top up with veg. Turn the temperature down after 15 mins and continue to bake till firm and golden but not excessively set. Tip: make sure you use enough batter to hold everything together, whilst not skimping on the veg! The texture should be firm but still egg like. Enjoy these hot or cold with colourful raw or warm salads. Next Grocery Final Order Date: 13th August Next Body Care Final Order Date: 19th November How do I join? Via our Facebook page or website, full info on the website! What does membership cost? Free What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623 307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk OWBG Website: owbg.jimdofree.com/ Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Twitter: Follow us @owbg1 or #owbg Facebook: Mary Crail Biofeedback & Wellbeing www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

RHS Rosemoor is now open again and just in �me to celebrate Britain’s iconic ﬂower – the rose - as the rose season gets into full bloom.

Due to Covid 19, ALL visitors (members and non-members) must book �me slots online to visit the gardens, or by phoning 01805 626810. We look forward to seeing you!

From Your District Councillors…

t the last full council meeting we approved the extension of the Westward Ho! slipway. The works are needed as sometimes the slipway does not end on the sand, but rather 2 foot above. This obviously causes access issues for both lifeguards and other emergency services, as well as for visitors to the beach, and needed to be rectified. The damaged road on the Burrows behind the pebble ridge has now also been repaired, allowing the WWHo! gate to be opened, and allows increased space for parking, which will help with social distancing. At the meeting, we passed a notice of motion that TDC should give another two months free parking in town centres to aid businesses back onto their feet. This

motion will have been debated by the Community and Resources Committee on Monday 13th July, following a financial implications report from the council. Great Torrington Town Council has been working with support from TDC, on the one-way system for the town using stickers and signs. Since they started spraying pavements, we feel there has been a notable change in attitudes. This can only be welcomed, especially with the easing of lockdown, as every reduction of contact points will help reduce the spread of coronavirus. The planter outside the Co-op is a lovely addition to the town as well, which was organised by GTTC through the Men’s Shed, planted by volunteer Dave Squire,

and watered by the GTTC technicians. In terms of play areas, Kingsmead adventure trail is now complete and has been signed off by inspectors. Burwood Park received a lovely new climbing frame just before the coronavirus hit, which is now also open for use. The contractors for Calf St Play Area commenced work this month; we hope it will be open to use mid-August! Good news all round and funds for the new equipment were raised by three different community groups! Well done to all those involved! Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin 07495 367 801 Cllr.cottle-hunkin@torridge.gov.uk Cllr Chris Bright 07936 325 909 Councillor.bright@torridge.gov.uk

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