GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Not-so Good News

Sadly, there have been some disappointing incidents over the past couple of months, which have caused damage to council property, and cost a considerable amount of money in work hours for your council.

Firstly, there was an incident of criminal damage in the skate park, where obscene drawings and writing were drawn all over the ramps in permanent pen. This incident required our technicians to spend several hours attempting to clean off the most offensive words and images, which included having to sand down the boards to remove the damage. Although some people may feel this is part and parcel of a skate park environment, it should be made clear that this was reported to the police as a criminal offence; this wasn’t artwork by any stretch of the imagination. This incident occurred in an area designed to be accessed by children, it involved obscene images and offensive language where individuals within the community were named. The estimated cost of dealing with the incident so far is approximately £400. If anyone has any information about this incident do contact us, or Great Torrington School, and we can pass it on to the police.

Secondly, over the past few months we have found several small pieces of the Grade II Listed fountain in the town square broken off and scattered in various places. This historic fountain is very fragile; it isn’t suitable for climbing on, or for standing on or sitting in the flower beds. Any damage caused is expensive, given the specialist skills required for the repair work. As well as the damage caused to the fountain, there is potential for injury if any attempt is made to climb/sit or stand on any parts of the fountain.

As ever, it is the few creating problems for the many, as we are very aware that the majority of people in Great Torrington of all ages behave in a respectful way towards each other and towards their environment. We should all have pride in the lovely town we live in and be glad that these incidents are the exception and not the norm.

Little Torrington Village Hall

Jonny and June Tribute Evening, Saturday 2nd September, 7.30 for 8pm

Enjoy an evening of toe tapping and singing with Rosanna Ball and Ian Holleran, with their unique tribute to the man in black.

Tickets £8, available from Rose 01805 625194 and Nicky 01805 439336. Cash bar and raffle.

Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service

12th November 2023

An early reminder that this year Remembrance Sunday falls on the 12th November 2023. The Royal British Legion will once again hold a Remembrance Ceremony at the War Memorial in the Cemetery, commencing at 10.50am.

Further details will be included in the October edition of the Crier.

Ordering of wreaths will be the same as last year and should be ordered direct from the Royal British Legion in plenty of time. A wreath can be ordered by contacting the Royal British Legion on 0345 845 1945, and will be posted out to you.

Jennie Smithson (Town Clerk)

Torrington Methodist Church

Awarm welcome from Torrington Methodist Church EX38 8AL, top of Mill Street.

Sunday Worship 10.30am at Church. Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom email sarahrichards185@gmail.com to request the link.

Join us for our Bacon Butty Coffee Morning 10am-12pm, third Saturday every month.

Our premises (various rooms, incl. wifi, projector) are available to hire, see website or phone Sheila 01805 622949.

Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.