Torrington Crier December & January 2020/21

FREE

December & January 2020/21 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.

GREAT TORRINGTON CHAMBER OF TRADE

YOUR LOCAL SHOPS HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED THIS CHRISTMAS

THINK LOCAL! LOCAL SHOPS SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY NOW THEY NEED YOU!

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PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SHOPS

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Read The Crier Online

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

Thank You!

The Crier Team would like to thank all of our town and rural deliverers who work so hard for us each month. They started delivering again in October after several months of Covid restrictions, and for that we are very grateful. We couldn't produce the Crier without you. We would also like to thank all of our advertisers and contributors who have continued to provide content for the Crier throughout the pandemic, it has been humbling to see the amount of adverts and editorial that we continue to receive.

We hope that you all stay well during this time, and that everyone has a peaceful and enjoyable Christmas.

The Crier Team

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

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.

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Torrington Library News

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uring the second lockdown we have only offered the Choose & Collect service and plan to continue with this when we are able to open once more under restriction.

Going to press we hope this will be, as before, on Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-12pm and 2-4pm and on Fridays and Saturdays 10am-12pm. Hours are subject to change so if you are online you can check out our Facebook page @ TorringtonLibraryDevon where we post all service updates along with events; visit www.devonlibraries.org.uk/web/arena; phone us on 01805 622107 or email torrington.library@librariesunlimited.org.uk.

To use our Choose & Collect service please phone or email and staff will select some books or audio for you and agree a collection time slot. This may appeal to those who feel more vulnerable at this time or those with family, friends or neighbours who can collect for them. Books on Torrington’s shelves can be isolated via the advanced search option on the online catalogue visit www.devonlibraries.org. uk/web/arena/catalogue. We offer a reservation service for a small fee, 85p for over 65s, £1.10 for adults, children’s reservations are FREE. BookTrack, our popular reading challenge for primary aged children, is still available albeit not in its usual face-to-face form. We have a new online review form which can be completed online and it will come directly to the relevant library. Access this via the Devon Libraries website (see above) and click on the ‘Children’ tab.

Our Facebook page @TorringtonLibraryDevon is the best place to go to find ‘What’s On’. Devon Libraries are all working together to offer and support online activities and events.

Christmas Hours: The library will be open on Christmas Eve 24 December, closed until New Year’s Eve on Thursday 31 December, closed for New Year’s Day on 1 January and opening (maybe in our new normal – look out for updates) for 2021 on Saturday 2 January.

Kate, Kate, Becky & Michelle wish all our customers, the Friends of Great Torrington Library, and our wonderful community a peaceful and safe Christmas and every good wish for 2021.

Sole Solu�ons Mobile Foot Clinic

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he Torrington Community Foodbank would like to say a big thank you to everyone in Torrington and the surrounding villages for their very generous support during this year, especially since the Covid pandemic. We feel very blessed that you have felt able to continue to support us in this very difficult time, when the need is becoming more vital.

The churches, both in the town and surrounding villages, have held a different Harvest Festival this year and chose to collect for the Foodbank rather than to have the normal fresh items.

We do feel gratitude to the village of Dolton, who have supported us for a number of years by holding a monthly coffee morning, and of course are now unable to do so but still continue to collect and deliver to us.

It will continue to be a very difficult time with people losing their jobs, and a very uncertain future for many; but please, if you need help, we are at the Baptist Church on a Tuesday and Saturday morning 10am-12 noon, you can self-refer for three parcels after which we do need to have some official documentation or a referral by an official body.

Thank you once again for your valued support.

The Torrington Foodbank

Quality treatments in your own home

Table Tennis Club

Callus • Corns • Athletes Foot • Cracked Heels Fungal Infec�on • Ingrowing Toenails Diabe�c Footcare • Toenail Trimming/Filing Thickening nail reduc�on

Weare Giffard Village Hall Monday & Thursday 7pm

Darren Avery (S.A.C. DIP FHPT/FHPP RFHP) H: 01805 624664 M: 07891 614 320 4

Thanks From Torrington Community Foodbank

Covid rules followed

Other sessions may be available on request Call Andrew to discuss 07887 921321 Commencing after lockdown on Thursday 3rd December

OneGreatTorrington.uk

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alling shops, trades, businesses, B&Bs, accommodation providers, clubs, societies, etc - don't forget your *FREE* listing on the OneGreatTorrington.uk website. This is free advertising, for local and national searches. Visit the website and find the ‘Add listing’ button in the top-right – it takes 10 minutes and you can upload your logo and photos. If you are holding an event then those can also be featured. Any organisation in the locality of Great Torrington can have a listing or event; did we mention that it is FREE? Did you make a purchase before lockdown which you are proud of?

Did a trades person make good work of a job you needed doing? Did you achieve something in a club or social group? Did you take a stunning photo somewhere around the town? LET US KNOW on social media by tagging us or use the hashtag #onegreattorrington!

Follow us and we’ll follow you back – Facebook – www.facebook.com/ OneGreatTorrington Twitter – www.twitter.com/ OneGTorrington Instagram – www.instagram.com/ onegreattorrington We are working with the Town Council’s Marketing Working Group to further promote the town, our new website and social media channels are becoming more popular. If you feel you can offer some help then do get in touch.

Great Torrington Futures Group Email – gt.futuregroup@gmail.com

Can You Help at May Fair & Carnival?

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orrington May Fair and Carnival committee is looking for volunteers to fill a number of roles, both physical and administrative, in the run up to and during May Fair week itself. There are specific roles to fill but we also require general help at the event themselves; individuals, families, sports teams, gym goers or anyone who feels they can offer support we would love to hear from you as soon as possible. The roles are as follows, with a short explanation: Raffle Coordinator - collate prizes and distribution of raffle books to sellers (2020s prizes already in place to use next year).

Traffic support - mainly an administrative role to coordinate road closures etc., over all May Fair events.

Equipment Coordinator - physical/organisation role on rehearsal evening and May Fair day to help in positioning of throne etc.

Equipment assistants - physical role on rehearsal evening and May Fair day to support moving equipment/chairs etc.

Carnival support - various jobs prior to and on carnival day.

To play a vital part is this amazing event please contact the committee for more information via the Torrington May Fair and Carnival Facebook page or by emailing george29575@aol.com. Thank you.

Common News

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espite everything, work goes on to protect and maintain Torrington Commons. Our new play park is finally going ahead and it will be a very high quality and wonderful space for the children who visit the Commons.

Many people and organisations have contributed to help make this possible, to whom we are very grateful!

We are also grateful to the Great Torrington Chamber of Trade, who many years ago funded the installation of the picnic benches at the top of Castle Hill and, more recently, have provided the funds for them to be repaired and refurbished. This work is going ahead as I write. We have also been opening up the views from that area, where invasive sycamore had grown up.

We note with sadness the passing away of Kieron Crawley, a former member of the Great Torrington Commons Conservators. A very practical man who loved the Commons, Kieron helped dig the pond on Reid’s field and also to plant the first trees for Collingham’s Orchard. A new tree will be planted there in his name.

The Great Torrington Commons Conservators would like to thank the people of Torrington for their continued support in this difficult year. Please get in touch if you see anything that needs attention or would like to get involved, and do look out for the article giving the latest update on our 365 Supporter’s Club.

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and a happier New Year!

Mandy Harrison, Chair GTCC Chair@TorringtonCommons.org, Facebook @TorringtonCommons

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New clients enjoy 15% off Please call Aimee 07742 798 851 Above Obsessions Hair Salon Torrington Goddess Lashes & Holistic Treatments

Soft furnishings, living & dining room furniture & accessories.

Unique & stylish to make your home beautiful!

01805 938967 • 39-41 Well Street, Torrington

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Blackberry Farm Shop

FREE QUOTES Loose covers, recovering, and full re-upholstery of antique, modern and automotive furniture.

Cavaliers Column Chapter 9

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* 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

irst of all, an apology. Last month I mentioned fellow Cavalier Ed ‘Bluebeard’ Sturridge and his carpentry skills but somehow, I really messed up his name which should have read Ed ‘Greybeard’ Strugnell. I understand his wife is gunning for me!

It’s been an eventful few weeks for a change, where we have been able to get on with a bit of Cavaliering away from the bonfire (although that work has still been progressing slowly). The Torrington World Championship Pumpkin Competition weigh-in was held and 17 pumpkins arrived to be weighed. The owners waited eagerly for the results, with many in with a shout to take the top prizes. That was until Rachael Nudds turned up with a 55.4 kg monster, followed by Daz and his 35.9 kg whopper. Colin Pettifer arrived as we were clearing down, with a magnificent decorated specimen depicting his tribute to Remembrance Day, but unfortunately was too late for the judging.

It is on display though in Xanadu and is well worth a look. Our thanks to all who participated in this light hearted fun event, and for the socially distanced pint or two afterwards in the Torridge Vale Club. It was good to have a bit of a get together at last. Thanks also to Jayne Wafforne at Whiskers and Charlie Banfield at Function Fitness for the loan of their weighing scales, and to Genesis for the use of their wonderful function room.

There have been hundreds of kind comments on social media about the fireworks display on the evening of 5th November. These were well received by the Cavaliers, and lifted our spirits as I am sure it did for many townsfolk. A bit of brightness and relief from the current situation we are all in. For those who complained, we did post a Facebook notification and hinted prior to the event that a surprise was in store, and there was another clue in the date, November 5th! Ah well we can’t please everyone however much we try! Our thanks to Glenn Bealey, Two Tigers Firework Company and Cavalier Nick Hallam for their involvement in such a successful display.

We are currently looking at erecting the town’s Christmas lights towards the end of the month, along with the tree, so the Square should bring some festive cheer to our town and brighten our mood.

The Mayflower is now floodlit from 4pm to midnight and thanks again to Cavalier Nick Hallam for sorting out all the electrics; it is looking really impressive so take a look if you can.

More next time.

‘All for One and One for All’ Ace

LITTLE OTTERS PRESCHOOL DOLTON

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Preschool places available for children aged between 2-4 years Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.15 to 3pm If you would like to arrange a visit please contact the school office on 01805 84315 or dolton.sch@alunismat.org

Joy to The World

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orringtonwriters have not met since February due to the ongoing Covid situation and will not be meeting again until next year. However, not to be beaten, five of its members have come together by email to write a Christmas story.

Each individual author has composed a chapter of “Joy to the World” and the story opens on Christmas Eve of 1946 when the vicar of St Saviour’s Church is preparing for Midnight Mass. As he stoops over the figure of Jesus in the manger he realises that the baby moves and that it is not a doll, but a real live little boy. However no-one comes forward to claim him or to reveal that they are his mother or father.

The vicar and his wife call the little boy Noel, and the story then takes us forward to the present day. We then unpick the history of how Noel came to be left in the crib in the village of Middlethorp at Christmas and ultimately discover, through information gleaned by successive generations, who his parents are and why he was abandoned.

If you would like to read the whole story then visit - torringtonwriters.co.uk.

You can also find out how the story came to be written and a little bit about each author.

If you read the story and have a computer and would like to take part in writing future “pass the parcel” stories then please contact Stephanie Easton on 01805 622688. Similarly if you would like a printed copy of “Joy to the World” then contact this number too.

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Recommended Reads

t is now time to think about Xmas! There are many new titles on the Xmas lists but one, from a first time author who we all know well from TV is ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ written by Richard Osman.

This is a lovely light hearted romp with a couple of murders thrown in. It is set in Coopers Chase Retirement Village which is very upmarket indeed with a gym, a pool, spacious grounds and separate flats for all the residents, a bit like living in Centre Parcs. The Thursday Murder Club comprises four residents all in their seventies. Elizabeth, who was something that nobody talks about in MI5; Joyce a retired nurse; Ron a retired shop steward who says he never believes a single word anyone ever says to him, especially the police and finally Ibrahim who swims every day to ‘keep the skin tight’.

They, due to Elizabeth’s contacts in MI5, delve into ‘cold cases’ and try to solve them. They meet every Thursday in the jigsaw room, which they manage to keep empty for meetings by booking it under the disguise of ‘Japanese Opera…a Discussion’ which is enough to keep anyone out.

Then miraculously they have a couple of murders to solve on their own doorstep. One, the owner of Coopers Chase, a very sharp cookie who wants to expand, against the inhabitants’ wishes and secondly his very nasty ‘right hand man’. Of course the police are soon on the scene but are very happy to elicit the help of the Murder Club, because as Elizabeth says “After a certain age you

Great Torrington Commons 375 Supporters Group

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he next phase of the Great Torrington Commons 375 Supporters Group has started.

All 365 Supporters have got or will be getting their membership cards very soon. The card can be used to get a discount in certain shops in Great Torrington. The list of shops is growing, at the time of going to press in early November the shops are as follows.

Unique Boutique, Whiskers Pet Centre, Hogwash Soap, Inside 11a, Java Gifts, Collectability, Hair We Are, Lillian Rose Interiors, No. 37, Xanadu and Fine Floral Design.

I am waiting to hear back from the other shops in town and hope that most of the independent shops will join the project.

The idea of the project is to increase the trade in Torrington and raise funds to maintain, improve and protect the Commons. Hopefully, more and more people will apply to be a 365 Supporter and go shopping in Great Torrington.

The Conservators are incredibly grateful to all supporters of the 365 group as every donation makes a huge difference.

The 365 Supporters pay just a £2 per month donation which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer - that’s an extra 50p added to your £2 donation! You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to you. You can pay £24 annually if you prefer. One off donations can also be made via our website www.torringtoncommons.org.

Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple: Option 1 email Andrew Giles at vicechair@torringtoncommons.org with your name and address and he will send you an application form.

His telephone number is 07956 366390 if you would prefer to contact him directly.

Option 2 visit the website www.torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you can apply online.

As well as the discount card all 365 Supporters will receive a free Tree Trail map when they sign up. The Tree Trail starts and ends at the Old Bowling Green and is around 4 kilometres in length. As you proceed you will notice a numbered post by each example of tree or shrub. There are 55 different native specimens.

Andrew Giles, Vice Chair, Great Torrrington Commons Conservators

can do pretty much whatever you fancy and no one tells you off except your doctor and your children”.

This would be a fun book to give to anyone, especially the more mature members of the family. Full of twists,

turns and surprises that don’t get solved until the very end. As far as our author Mr Osman is concerned, book two is ready to be released shortly.

So there you go, one Xmas present sorted!

Authentic Indian & Indo-Chinese Food (unique to Kolkata, India)

Catering for all occasions Cooking demonstrations & lessons T: 07298 182 659 E: kitchensonu@gmail.com

Please get in touch to find out more!

2, Church Walk, Torrington, EX38 8HS 7

Is it Time to Slow Down & Take a Breath?

A new start for a New Year? n this frantic world of recent and ongoing uncertainty, how often do you jump from event to event, just trying to keep everything going? But in the rush to accomplish all those necessary tasks, do you find yourself losing connection with the present moment and sadly, missing out on what you’re doing and how you’re feeling?

Mindful meditation can create a greater capacity to deal with adverse events.

Many people who practice mindfulness find that they are less likely to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets over the past and are better able to form deep connections with others. With practice, Mindful Meditation can serve as the perfect healing antidote to those habitual thought processes that can undermine our health and overall well-being.

These courses, ideal for those who wish to learn to meditate or those who are seeking to deepen and reinforce their existing practice, can be taken face to face via Zoom online or, Covid 19 restrictions permitting, in small groups in Bideford.

Why not resolve to enter the New Year with zero pressure to do anything other than remain present and awake to your own potential?

A trained practitioner with over 30 years of meditation practice, registered and listed with the Mindfulness Teachers Register, I am committed to helping individuals find a way to negotiate the pressures and expectations of these difficult times.

The next courses in December 2020 will be held online and in January 2021 at The River Rooms in Bideford, so please visit www.gentlemind.uk for more information. Alternatively, email me, James Murray, at info@gentlemind.uk or phone 01769 302007 or 07866 545 978.

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Top Meadow Farm Organic & Local Produce

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e are your local farmer and butcher supplying local meat to local residents and we are fanatical about the amazing taste of slow-grown, locally farmed meat.

We believe that consumers should know where their meat comes from, and should be confident that the welfare of the animals comes first.

So we farm only native or rare breeds that are free to graze and forage naturally for their entire lives. Our own home farms are all Soil Association certified organic, and we partner only with small scale, high welfare and sustainable, local farms.

We respect our North Devon landscape and work tirelessly to maintain and improve our soil and bio-diversity for future generations.

The end result is thoughtfully crafted, protects our natural heritage and has exceptional flavour.

Please see our advert for more information, we also deliver!

Email: contact@topmeadowfarm.co.uk. Website: www.topmeadowfarm.co.uk

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Improve Your Natural Defences

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inter is here; now is an important time to start boosting your immune system to help combat seasonal bugs and viruses. Self-care is paramount in strengthening your natural defences and holistic treatments like reflexology and massage are the perfect way to rejuvenate and build a stronger immune system ready to fight-off any lurgies. Equally, if you are recovering from bugs or cold/flu viruses, reflexology has been known to help the body recover from deep fatigue, as well as physical, emotional, low energy levels and other associated symptoms. In this way, regular treatments can help play a vital role in one’s general well-being.

During my sessions I use heated basalt stones on the calves and feet to induce a deep sense of calm, while working all of the traditional reflexology points that are connected to systems of the body. Within that inner stillness, anxieties can be lessened and the body is allowed to recharge itself in its own individual way.

Please note that I have been a trained therapist since 1995 and a full member of the Association of Reflexologists and I practice with a Covid-19 secure workplace policy. I look forward to working with you.

Tara Gibson

I have been a fully qualified Reflexologist and a member of the Association of Reflexologists since 1995.

REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENTS & HOT STONE REFLEXOLOGY in Torrington or in the comfort of your own home.

INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE & REIKI also available.

Telephone: Tara Gibson M.A.R. on 01805 439253 or 07876 050 892

Free local delivery when you spend over £25!

Reflexology Feet First Tara Gibson Dip Ref. M.A.R. A.O.R.

Webbers - Property Market Musings

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his is being written as we enter into our second lockdown of the year due to Covid-19. After the first national lockdown, the housing market responded with a definite rebound with some very strong sales and rentals across all price ranges. What was interesting was that many of those making moves were local buyers, either upsizing or downsizing. It was not all about getting the buyers, as it were, from ‘up country’ although for many years the London market or, indeed, buyers from abroad were seen as the ‘geese that laid the golden eggs’! What was becoming more important was the lifestyle to be had, in and around their new home. That search for work life balance was becoming a key factor.

What Great Torrington was able to offer during those turbulent times was the ability to still have some semblance of normal life. We are lucky to have a great range of independent shops that remained well stocked with product and produce to enable our day to day lives to carry on. Queues for loo rolls and flour did not materialise unlike many parts of the country!

The weather was certainly on our side and, as estate agencies returned to some modicum of normal, we saw a marked increase in homes being prepared for the market, with sharp decoration, tended gardens and the all-important stripes appeared on lawns ready for the photographs! This however was coupled with the fact that some buyers or tenants were not even ready to make the move, and shied away from viewings, meaning that the number of viewings to sales/let ratio saw a significant drop. Vendors and landlords had to be content with less footfall, but those that came were better quality and it was all about matching motivated buyers and sellers.

Agents had to reinvent themselves to adapt to the new normal way and, over time, saw the rise of video tours, often quite amateurish but none the less, effective. Since then, we have invested in even better technology to help present homes to their very best, be it video tours, 360 degree tours or high level photography.

What has slowed down is the overall legal process once a sale has been arranged, due to many solicitors being overloaded with transactions, people having to jump through more hoops to get a mortgage and delays in searches. Typically, from the time of instructing an agent to moving out is 5-6 months.

Now into the first week of the second lock down what is in store for the coming months?

With the advent of the Stamp Duty holiday ending in March 2021, a lot of buyers are very focused on the saving to be made and we can foresee a bottle neck forming as the date gets nearer and nearer.

As always, our highly trained and motivated staff will be on hand to help and guide.

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

Tips for Boosting Your Immune System

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s we step into Winter we need to look at ways in which to boost our immune system. When we are stressed our immune system is lowered but here are some ways to boost it. * Eat plenty of vegetables especially ones which are high in Vitamin C like red bell pepper, garlic, ginger and spinach, increase your intake of fruit. * Drink plenty of water to help flush out the toxins and to keep you hydrated. * Take supplements of Vitamin C and D, we are all lacking in Vitamin D especially during the winter months and need to take supplements. * Ensure you are getting enough sleep.

Our bodies repair whilst we sleep.

Whilst we are not all shut away in our homes yet, then do get outside and enjoy the sunshine and boost your Vitamin D naturally. You will be able to step outside into your garden to enjoy nature, Research essential oils or speak to an Aromatherapist to find out which oils are best to use to boost your immune system. I use tea tree, lavender, thyme and lemon, either in diffusers or to bathe in.

And lastly just breathe! Place your hands on you heart breathe in for six and breathe out for six several times tapping into your parasympathetic system to calm your body and mind.

I wish you all well during these winter months and hope these tips are helpful.

Please see my advert on this page to get in touch.

Samantha Hardwick

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that she doesn’t have to be aggressive to everyone. She is even learning to like me! We also have a lovely GSD who loves everyone except other dogs, including me sadly. i Freddie here Although we have had less dogs with tails from coming into rescue, some of our K9focus!

4EverFocus foster dogs have been quite What a strange year poorly and our vet bills have escalated; this has been – who every penny has been spent to keep could have guessed this these furbies comfortable. Aunty Lynne time last year what 2020 has asked me to thank everyone for would bring. It has been their donations. Every little helps as the hard times for the rescue, saying goes. During the first couple of as it has been for many charities and businesses, and all we can weeks in December we will be having an online K9 Auction to help raise some wish for is a better and brighter 2021.

The support we have had during the year funds, so do please visit our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/K9focus from everyone has truly been amazing where you will find some gifts for both and really has allowed us to survive, for humans and woofs. If you find yourself which all us woofs thank you. with little time to write all those Christmas There have been less dogs coming cards, you can also visit ‘Send Christmas into rescue this year, which is good news, but hopefully they will all remain in E-Cards’ (visit our website and Facebook page) and perhaps then donate the their new homes when everyone starts money saved to our sponsor dogs. to go back to work and won’t be too This will be my third Christmas in stressed if they find themselves alone for part of the day. This is something that rescue, as I really do struggle when I go to a new home, and so I am very settled most charities are a little worried about. here and love being the K9focus mascot Many rescue dogs may never have experienced Christmas in a home and so dog. I do think about all the dogs that will be in kennels for Christmas and could find all the excitement quite scary. may be sad, and it made me write this There will no doubt also be lots of food little poem! I have dedicated it to all the around, which can be so tempting for volunteers and helpers in rescue centres dogs and which can make them very ill; around the country who I know will be mince pies, Christmas pudding, grapes working hard to give all the dogs a very and nuts, chocolate and alcohol, so do special Christmas Day. make sure that these are well out of So that is all from me and just leaves reach. Some dogs also like a little den to me to wish everyone a very Merry escape to.

Christmas and my wishes for a healthy Missy, the little collie, is still with us and happy 2021. as it has taken quite a time for her to Licks and woofs as always, Freddie realise that people are quite nice and

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Twas the Night Before Christmas…

Was the night before Christmas, when all through the pound, Not a dog was yelping or making a sound Leads hung on doors, beds clean and bright All hoping that Santa would visit them, that night They longed for a time when they had a home Not matching the new sofa is why they’re alone Snug in their kennel but missing a hug And the warm fire curled up on the rug Thoughts of the presents under the tree Dreaming of things they will no longer see Visions of turkey cooked to perfection But now they’re in kennels, hurt with rejection The fairy lights twinkle and carols they hear play As they awake on this Christmas Day They haven’t heard Santa and so feel forgotten So stay in their beds, alone and downtrodden Voices they hear shouting come out and play Let’s have fun on this very special day As they peek from their beds the treats they do see ‘Oh’ they exclaim, he didn’t forget me Santa has been and left parcels galore They look at each other and their hearts do soar In kennels they may be on this Christmas Day But presents and love will certainly come their way

By Freddie

Please Come Back to The Plough!

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id we say Thursday 5th November was our date to reopen? We got it wrong - we meant Thursday 10th December!

We have rescheduled everything and all the dates are listed below. Any extra workshops or screenings will be advertised outside the building, on our website and via our social media. Many events will be live streamed for those who prefer to join in from home. With social distancing and Covid precautions in place, it will be new to all of us and as safe as we can possibly make it. Please come back! We can’t wait to see you.

Thank you for your support and encouragement in these tricky times.

Take care.

Richard Wolfenden-Brown & all at The Plough

carers. Limited numbers.1.30-2.30pm.

FREE thanks to The Devon Community Foundation) Plough Youth Theatre – Saturdays & Mondays (via Zoom in lockdown).

Limited numbers. For bookings call 01805 624624 or e-mail sophie@ theploughartscentre.org.uk (Plough Youth Theatre is supported by The Achates Foundation & The Guards).

Streaming) Fri 18 Dec 8pm Comedy Night: Paul Foot: Swan Power 90 mins inc Q and A (no interval), £16.50 Full (10 tickets avail @ £8.25 for Key Workers) + Live Streaming Course Sat 19 Dec 6.30pm & 9pm The Wild Printmaking 7th January 10 week Printmaking Course with Faye Strawberries, £9 Full £7 Supporters (10 Anderson-Retter. The first five weeks you tickets avail @ £4.50 for Key Workers) + will learn Lino, Dry point, Monoprint and Live Streaming Collagraph. Then five weeks to work on Sun 20 Dec 4pm The Postman Poet: A your preferred process. £160 materials Seasonal Celebration of the Life and extra. Welcome to bring your own Songs of Edward Capern materials and refreshments. £10 Full £8 Supporters (10 tickets avail @ £5 for Key Workers) + Live Streaming Live Events & Films Mon 21 Dec 7pm, Tues 22 Dec 2pm, Regular Events Box Office 01805 624624 or book Wed 23 Dec 7pm National Theatre Print Workshop with Faye Andersononline via our website Retter – Thursdays 10am - 1pm. Starts Thurs 10 Dec 8pm Kathryn Roberts & Live: War Horse by Michael Morpurgo.

Filmed live in front of an audience 165 Thurs 5 Nov. Bookings via The Plough.

Sean Lakeman, £17.50 Full (10 tickets T’ai-Chi Ch’aun with Ian Godfrey – mins, £10 Full £8 Supporters (10 tickets avail @ £8.75 for Key Workers) (+ Live Thursdays 2.15 – 3.15pm. Starts Thurs avail @ £5 for Key Workers) Streaming) 5 Nov. Bookings via Ian 01271 850918 Wed 30 Dec 8pm Rosa Rebecka at Fri 11 Dec 6.30pm & 9pm Comedy vintagewarrior.uk@gmail.com ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple. All Night with Laura Lexx, £12 Full (10 Plough Prism Drama via Zoom – tickets £8 tickets avail @ £6 for Key Workers) + Tuesdays. An exciting weekly drama Sat 9 Jan 6.30pm & 9pm Comedy Live Streaming workshop via Zoom for adults with Night with Rich Hall £20 (10 tickets Sat 12 Dec 6.30pm & 9pm Comedy additional needs with the support of avail @ £10 for Key Workers) Night: Shappi Khorsandi, £16.50 their carers. Limited numbers.10.30am16yrs+ Likely to be swearing and adult 11.10am (group Zoom workshop) Full (10 tickets avail @ £8.25 for Key content.

11.15am-12.30pm (individual Zoom Workers) + Live Streaming Fri 15 Jan 6.30pm & 9pm Voodoo sessions – times will be allocated).

Sat 12 Dec 8pm Jacob Houghton at FREE Thanks To The National Lottery Room (A Night of Hendrix, Clapton ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple, All Community Fund. & Cream) £15 Full £12 Supporters (10 tickets £8 Motion Dance via Zoom – Tuesdays. An tickets avail @ £7.50 for Key Workers) + Sun 13 Dec 3pm & 6pm Paul Jones enjoyable weekly dance and movement Live Streaming & Dave Kelly, £26.50 Full (10 tickets workshop via Zoom for adults with Sat 16 Jan 6.30pm & 9pm Simon additional needs with the support of their avail @ £13.25 for Key Workers) (+ Live & Garfunkel Through the Years,

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Bespoke Garden Services Daniel Jokic Qualified Horticulturist

Regular Maintenance • Garden Design Lawn Mowing • Clearance Hedge Cutting/Tree Pruning T: 079640 552 244 E: danjokic@hotmail.com performed by Bookends £16 Full £14 Supporters (10 tickets avail @ £8 for Key Workers) + Live Streaming Sun 17 Jan 3pm & 6pm Show of Hands Duo, £23.50 (10 tickets avail @ £12 for Key Workers) Sat 23 Jan 6.30pm & 9pm Comedy Night with Mark Steel, £18 Full (10 tickets avail @ £9 for Key Workers) 16yrs+ Likely to be swearing and adult content.

Fri 29 Jan 6.30pm & 9pm Comedy Night with Daliso Chaponda, £16.50 Full (10 tickets avail @ £8.25 for Key Workers) + Live Streaming Sat 30 Jan 6.30pm & 8pm Grace Petrie, All tickets £13.50

Workshops & Talks at ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple

Book via The Plough Sat 5 Dec: Workshop: Christmas Decoration Weaving workshop. 10am Sun 6 Dec: Workshop: Basket Weaving Workshop. 10am Sun 6 Dec: Workshop: Introduction to Acrylics whole days workshop. 10.30am Mon 7 Dec: Workshop: Introduction to Watercolours. 7pm Wed 9 Dec: Workshop: Introduction to Acrylics workshop. 6.45pm Thur 10 Dec: Tour: Tarka Trail Haunted History Tour. 8pm Friday 11 Dec: Talk: Liz Shakespeare: A Devon Christmas. 8pm Saturday 12 Dec: Live Music: Jacob Houghton. 7pm Tues 15 Dec: Workshop: Introduction to Acrylics workshop. 6.45pm Wed 16 Dec: Workshop: Introduction to Acrylics workshop. 6.45pm Fri 18 Dec: Haunted History Tours of DevonTalk: Sex, Drugs & Penny

“The garden suggests there might be a place where we can meet nature halfway” Michael Pollan

Trembles. 7.30pm Wed 30 Dec: Live Music: Rosa Rebecka. 8pm

Plough Visual Arts

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e are going to keep our current show in the main gallery up until Christmas. A short film about it is on our Facebook page. Instead of having the craft fair in the gallery, we will spread it throughout the Plough for three days: Tuesday 15th, Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th from 10am - 8pm. Our empty auditorium and foyer will provide ample space for a socially distanced display of local makers. You will still be able to buy an original gift from the Plough, and a list of participants will be available on our website nearer the time. So why not come along and see both the craft fair and the show in the main gallery, which features Merlyn Chesterman, Bill Stewart, Paul Seed, Popalini and Jezando, Jacob Lane, Truda Lane, Laura Porter, Jay Luttman Johnson, Peter Stiles, Mahali O'Hare, Joy Wolfenden Brown, Pavel Isupov, Irene Jones and Petra Freeman.

In January we are aiming to show ‘Portraits of Torrington’ by Shan Miller, which had to be postponed from October and was featured in the Crier.

20 years ago Shan Miller painted a series of portraits of some of Torrington's characters. She is trying to get as many as possible back together in order to put on a show that will bring back more than a few memories for most of us.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Get Together Friends

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don’t think anyone can argue if we say that it has been a very difficult year for everybody. With Coronavirus and lockdowns, not to mention shielding and difficulties with social mobility. We can only hope that 2021 will be a definite improvement, and we can go back to enjoying days out and unrestricted access to our families and friends. Let’s be positive and assume a vaccine will be forthcoming, at least for all senior citizens, before Easter.

Then things can slowly start returning to some semblance of normality.

Don’t forget to wrap-up and go out and get some exercise (in between the showers) even if it is only for twenty minutes a day.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish one and all the best wishes for the coming season. A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, even if there might be a few minor difficulties along the way. Look after yourselves.

Marcia Fuller and Val Copp

Pet, Home & Garden Supplies Unit 2 Winkleigh The Old Airfield (Next to Jones’s Cafe)

Now open Tuesday - Saturday 9-4pm • Closed Sunday & Monday

Services include: House sitting • Dog walking • Equine care • Emergency cover Contact Isabel on: Tel: 07989 995935 12

Email: isabelspetsitting@gmx.co.uk Visit: www.isabelspetsitting.co.uk

Wild Bird Foods: Peanuts • Treats • Fat balls Dog Foods • Cat Foods • Treats • Litters • Bedding For the Home: Toiletries • Cookware • Bin Liners • Cleaning Products Plastic Ware • Stationery For the Garden: Compost • Wood Chip • Top Soil • Fence Care Plant Foods • Pest Control • Paints • DIY • Brushes • Rollers Now run by the original owners Steve & Shirley

Tel 01837 680084

Your Town Hall News

Regular Covid 19 Updates or regular updates log on to our new website, designed by local man Jamie Loud and paid for from the legacy Brian Oke recently bequeathed to the Town Hall, for which we are enormously grateful. Go to https://greattorrington-townhall.org and then click on the NEWS section on the menu bar or call Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192 if you have any queries.

As Trustees and staff of the Town Hall, it is quite challenging to know what to submit for the December and January Crier when, at the time of writing, we are currently in our second lockdown and uncertain about the future. However, it is important to remain optimistic - help and support our friends and neighbours and simply do what Torrington does best - be kind to each other.

Town Hall Events Bev’s Catering at the Town Hall: December & January food events will resume as soon as the current Covid-19 restrictions are lifted – check our website for updates North Devon Hog Roast: Many of you will already have enjoyed the delicious takeaways from under the arches at the Town Hall, served by local lady Sam Hastings and her family. Sam and her team will be back on Friday 4th December from 5-8pm.

In addition to takeaways, North Devon Hog Roast will be serving tasty takeaway Sunday Roast Boxes from 12-2pm on Sunday 13th December.

We would like to extend our thanks to Bev and Sam for their much-needed financial support to the Town Hall during

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these challenging times. work prospects.

The Wednesday Knit & Natter Group Unfortunately, we are seeing an The Knit and Natter group hope you increase in the number of people enjoyed the display of poppies on show attending the weekly work club. These numbers are likely to rise during the coming months and Iain Harris and Robin Davey, who run the Monday Club, are working hard – offering help with writing CVs, organising mock interviews, sourcing potential jobs for clients and extending support in any way they can.

Iain will be working from home during lockdown but can be contacted by email Iain.harris@librariesunlimited.org.uk.

The big January pop-up sale with quality clothing, shoes, jewellery, cakes, and produce will be on Friday 15th & Saturday 16th January.

As many of you can imagine, we need to generate a constant income stream to in the Town Hall’s Undercroft and would cover the running costs, maintenance, like to thank everyone who contributed to part time staff costs etc., to keep your this great project.

Town Hall operating. Arranging a whole Prior to lockdown the group were range of events is essential for our working hard on a fantastic Christmas continued success. display, and are currently continuing the To date we have been overwhelmed by project from home (I can almost hear the the generosity of local people, who have clicking of knitting and crochet needles donated so many wonderful goods to us because the group are so determined to and who have come along to support our unveil their display before Christmas.) regular pop up shops.

The group meet every Wednesday If you have any goods you would like from 10am to 12noon and newcomers to donate - or perhaps bake a cake or are always welcome. offer a draw prize, then I would love to Torrington Job Club hear from you. I am happy to come and We would like to extend massive collect. thanks to the Great Torrington Townlands Have a wonderful Christmas and best Charity for their generous funding grant, New Year ever from everyone at your which was used for two local men to Town Hall. embark on courses that will furnish them Anne Tattersall 07971 696 192 with additional skills to increase their

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Torridge House Cottages, Little Torrington 07807 698 224 • www.torridgehouse.co.uk

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Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he

Mayor’s

welcome

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countless litigation, our town is in the project, which would havehall included

Easter Hall Park Stables Drain clearing Drain clearing CCTV surveys Petrockstowe CCTV surveys

• Adult Bikes • Child Buggies • Child Bikes • Services •Tandems • Repairs • Disabled Tag-alongs • Wee-Hoo

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Dispelling Theof Myth… them too but it would far exceed my

to see in a garden in winter” quota of words. call for “Nothing emergencies ou may think that there is see not apictures of our last If you want to lot to seeshow in a garden during the or a list of previous productions, winter months.

But nothing could visit www.torringtonplayers.com on Players be further from the truth as RHS Garden month!

'Hobson's proves and it Torrington is open every In Bloom aven't Rosemoor booked your day except Christmas Day. he dates, time, price Silver-Gilt Winners 2011 time celebration on Snowdrop Weekend 6 mber areThe all winter on theis a wonderful Torrington intoBloom is delighted with enjoy or a walk the 65-acre garden. & 7 February ont cover, popround the above result and would not havededicated to these little is a surprising amount o theThere Plough in been able of to colour; achieve lights of the darker months. Winter colour and snowdrops, erson. from early camellias it without the help and and scent is also provided by Daphne, fragrance from plants he castincredible has been support of likelocal Viburnum, Mahonia, and Helebores to orking Mahonia hard under and Daphne, interesting traders, groups and name a few. e direction of Frank textures from our individuals, ornamental grasses Rosemoor will be once again we would lman, tocollection bring you a the like and barktoof thank ornamental you all. transformed into a magical place in the emorable evening A listbirch of sponsors cherry, Acer and silver trees and evenings with Glow and is one of only acked with laughter. is available together with greatsupporters structure from tightly a few such events taking place in the enry clipped Hobsonyewishedges on and the trained noticeboard fruit at whole of the South West. The garden pleby, who alongside t h e e n t r a n c e t o t hwill e bec oilluminated uncil trees. by innovative, hifinds time write theoffices/1646.

It isto perhaps best time of year to tech lights as the gardens glow with its es on see our the website This is Britain in Bloom’s definition multi-coloured stems of many magical trailof around the trees, shrubs, on's eldest daughter what constitutes silver-gilt level: types of plants including the Cornus water features and sculptures. It runs sible one, is Sara ‘Very as Good’ (75-84% mark) – atohigh group, commonly known dogwoods, through 2 January 2021 and every r, 'bumptious' sisters standard entry, which meets virtually or the young growth of the many year we refresh the content. and Jo Wood. Neil all of the judging criteria and includes varieties of willow (Salix). Plus it’s a great Set against the backdrop of the as Willie Mossop, sections of exceptionally high see the National Collection of structural horticultural elements, Moore, time playstoAlbert, standards. Exemplifies best practice in Hollies located here at Rosemoor, many Rosemoor will be displaying its annual ckie. Joyce Ridgwell multiple areas and demonstrates very laden berrieshtoo.

Exhibition until 31 h and this willwith be her i g h p o t e n t i a l f o r Winter c o n t i Sculpture nuing when Rosemoor January 2021.

Throughout the garden, ith TP. Winter is a time development and sustainable effort. displays bare bones; as some of the over 100 unique pieces, individual members, but its very The judges’ comments were positive foliage recedes, creations in in steel, glass, stone, copper ny Bedinetz, Colin the in garden many appears areas, in too: ‘Torrington different way; structural elements and resin, seem to loom out of the gloom Puttick quite and aEsther Bloom has learned a lot during the last of the garden moreand evident treesthe potential of a winter’s day. The low winter sun, ng Richard Pitt, who are year you -have to be a g very and Welsh in 'A more shrubbery dramatically or the pale quality of the light before very strong show entry. 1646 centre in Wales' to a very off different bark textures. has the effect of dramatically improvesCatch eachthe year and snowfall, is a valuable lane. garden on a frostyasset morning the highlighting the sculptures. to and theseetown.

Dartington’s ere could not be grasses a (Crystal) grounds a valuable ornamental looking silvery andwere For more information rhs.org.uk/ the unsung heroes addition to the route. Therosemoor. flowerbedAllatvisits need to be booked feathery.

I wish I could list all will S&G is aandvast improvement.

The Snowdrops come out be ready online, please. to delight in mid-January to mid-February and at Rosemoor there is a special

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Torrington in Bloom

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ello everyone! Our little group of merry people are still working hard to keep Great Torrington looking colourful throughout the year, although we have been very careful not to expose ourselves too often. It is reasonably easy to garden without getting too close to one another and often, only one or two of us has be working at any given time.

I do, though, want to thank especially Val Knight and Dave Squire who have both worked so hard, and also to those of you who have grown and donated plants for us to use where we have been unable to source our usual supplies. Thanks must also be passed to RHS Rosemoor who have donated plants, bulbs and also labour (from a few who were furloughed).

We have also had help from the Town Council and from Tina and Sue at Fine Floral Designs, and to the volunteers who care for the gardens at 1646.

Finally, we have just received a lovely certificate from the Royal Horticultural Society ‘Bloom Groups’ section to thank all those groups who have continued to work to make our towns as attractive as possible during such trying times.

These certificates mean a great deal to those volunteers (and we are all volunteers) who work to maintain the gardens at 1646, and the Secret Memorial Garden, the flowerbed by S&G and the displays within the town centre.

Congratulations to you all and Thank You. Cherry Hammon

STUART STACEY CARPET & VINYL FITTER ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED REFITS UNDERTAKEN REPAIRS & RESTRETCHS MEASURING MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

01805622967 or 07767024688

TORRIDGE COMMUNITY MINIBUS SERVICES Run by Ilfracombe & District Community Transport

Ring and Ride services operate in the following areas: Mondays from Westward Ho! and Bideford Tuesdays Torrington Wednesdays from Hartland Thursdays High Bickington and south of the area.

Fridays Bideford Further details from: Janice Banks on 01271 864258

Why Advertise in The Crier?

FREE Online business directory entry FREE Clickable adverts to your website in the online Crier FREE colour cover advert with 5 large adverts booked Your special offers promoted FREE on our Facebook page Affordable rates and FREE design of your advert Call Esther on 01805 01805 601964 Email torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

We’ll Get Through This Together

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orking together across Torridge, Torrington 100 has been busy offering support to communities in all our rural villages and the people of Torrington itself since the pilot programme started the ball rolling in October 2019.

While we’re still restricted and unable to do everything we’d like, the new Community Developer, Martin Rawle is keen to reach out and hear what Torrington 100 can do to help. It could be enabling an individual to get the voluntary support they need or linking people up via the social prescribing programme now in place through local GPs, or even finding the funding to help solve a local problem or create a new facility.

One community that has already benefited is Weare Gifford. As part of T100’s ‘Seed Funding Project’, which made £500 available for each village and £1,000 for Great Torrington, Weare Gifford asked for some support for their table tennis club.

They have now set themselves up with two tables and plenty of bats and balls and host the club on Thursday evenings. They adhere to strict Covid guidelines to keep people safe so if you’d like to book a session once the current restrictions lift contact Kev Richards via email riversdalewg@gmail.com.

Community Developer Martin commented: “I love to see successful projects like this. I know we have awarded all the funds now and I’m here to help people realise their plans if they need a hand. My current personal passion is the ‘Friendly Bench’ initiative so do contact me if you’d like to know more!”

Martin was appointed in November and joins us from TorrAGE, where he has been spending time as a support worker. He is a trained Dementia Friend and is involved with the memory cafes in the Torridge area. In addition he is a community mediator with North Devon Community Mediation. Martin is a keen supporter of communityled health and wellbeing activities and whether you are a community group or individual he is looking forward to connecting with you.

Contact Martin on 07939 154 436.

Could You Volunteer for The Crier in St Giles in the Wood?

Do you live in St Giles in the Wood? e would like to thank Gail Hookway for collecting and dropping off Criers for us for some time now, however as she can no longer do this we need someone to take on the job!

This involves collecting Criers from the Library 10 times a year, and dropping them off at collection points in the village.

Could you help? If so please email torrington.crier@gmail.com.

Thank you!

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Tarka Valley Railway News

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s I write this update, we are now heading into lockdown the sequel, so all activities have been suspended until further notice. We have at least four weeks off so it’s time to resume those home DIY projects!

Nevertheless, in the short period since last month’s news, the team have continued with work on all our projects. The ‘track gang’ fettled the new point work and screwed down sleepers. The brake van trio freed off the brake linkages and manually pushed the vehicle up and down.

Torrington Cavalier’s engine has been run up and with the generator putting out good voltage, it is almost ready to move. Progress has been run up to temperature with a new filter on order.

The estates team have been clearing the site of logs ready for bagging and overgrown vegetation cut back.

I am pleased to report that we have been chosen by the Co-op to be one of their local Community Fund charities for the next 12 months. When you shop in the Co-op use your Co-op card. For more information on how to donate email info@tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk.

Please visit our Facebook page for latest news and information.

Rob Martin Tarka Valley Railway

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOW From Your Mayor…

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t the time of writing this article we are back into tighter restrictions. We will have to wait to see what happens on December the 3rd and my hope is that the number of people affected by Covid-19 will have reduced and, if appropriate, restrictions will be relaxed as we move towards Christmas.

I have been impressed again by the town traders who have risen to the challenge a second time as ‘essential’ providers, as well as those traders and businesses who have had to close again; but despite this have remained up-beat and been incredibly innovative.

In October I was delighted to be asked to ‘switch on’ the new floodlights at Donnacroft Playing Fields for Torridgeside Football Club. It was a fabulous evening and one which was an example of Torridgeside and the Town Council working well together. We wish them good luck in the future!

You will note from an article in this Crier about Remembrance that we filmed two separate ceremonies prior to the 5th November, and aired one on Remembrance Sunday and the other on Armistice Day. Both occasions were incredibly poignant and gave a window

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for everything to stop and ‘remember’ what so many gave for the lives of others. I would like to give a special thank you to Torrington Silver Band’s Nick Megson for playing the Last Post, the Chairman of the Great Torrington Branch of the Royal British Legion, Sid Adams, and The Royal British Legion Chaplain, Reverend Peter Bevan, for joining my Beadle and I on these very special occasions.

As we head towards Christmas I would

"I have been impressed again by the town traders who have risen to the challenge a second time as ‘essential’ providers, as well as those traders and businesses who have had to close again..." urge everyone to consider ‘buying local’, if at all possible. We have so many lovely independent shops and a unique pannier market where you really can buy original gifts and support the local small shops as you do. As well as this, we all play a part in keeping our local economy strong!

I would like to mention the Mayor's Raffle which is taking place throughout December up to the 18th. I would thank everyone who has donated a prize and would encourage as many people as possible to buy a ticket or two in support of my two charities this year: Friends of

the Library and Torrington Silver Band.

I'd like to wish you all a very happy, peaceful and healthy Christmas time, on behalf of myself and all at the Town Council. We look forward to a calmer 2021.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything, I can help you with.

Cllr Keeley Allin Mayor of Great Torrington cllr.allin@great-torringtontowncouncil. gov.uk

Christmas Parking Charges in December 2020

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orridge District Council has confirmed the ‘small businesses free parking day’ across all Torridge District Council car parks will be on Saturday 5th December 2020.

Great Torrington Town Council Members unanimously agreed to cover the cost of free parking at Sydney House Car Park only on the following Saturdays in December: 12th and 19th December 2020 between the hours of 8am and 12 noon.

Additionally, the Town Council agreed to have its second allocated free parking day on Thursday 24th December 2020. This applies to Sydney House and Barley Grove Car Parks.

Karen Chapman (Town Clerk) Great Torrington Town Council

WN COUNCIL NEWS Your Council, Working for YOU Remembrance Sunday 8th November 2020 & Armistice Day

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ue to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions the Town Council approached the time of Remembrance very differently this year. For Remembrance Sunday on the 8th November, the Town Council pre-recorded a service at the War Memorial, Great Torrington Cemetery, where an appropriate number of people attended and remained socially distanced.

The service was filmed and this, along with a montage of photos, was displayed on the Town Council’s website on Sunday 8th November.

The Royal British Legion Chaplain, Reverend Peter Bevan welcomed those present which then led to into the Last Post being played by Nick Megson from Torrington Silver Band, with two-minute’s silence being observed.

Mr Sidney Adams, Chairman of the Great Torrington Branch of the Royal British Legion read the reading; They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Wreaths were then laid by Sidney Adams and the Mayor, Cllr Keeley Allin on behalf of the Uniformed Services and the Town Council respectively.

The Kohima Epitaph was read by Sidney Adams, and the Mayor read the poem, ‘For the Fallen’ by Laurence Binyon. Reverend Peter Bevan read from the Bible and led prayers and a blessing.

For Armistice Day the Mayor of Great Torrington and Beadle, along with the Royal British Legion Chaplain Reverend Peter Bevan, attended the War Memorial prior to the new restrictions being enforced. At this time a simple service was conducted which included the Roll of Honour being read by the Chaplain and Mayor, a Bible reading, prayers and the laying of a wreath. A second montage of photos along with the Roll of Honour was posted on the Council’s website on 11th of November 2020.

All of this information can be viewed on the Town Council’s website; https://great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk/remembrance-service-2020 https://great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk/armistice-day-2020 We received government guidance two days before Armistice Day and as a result the Mayor also visited the cemetery on the 11th November at 11am to pay respects on behalf of the Town Council.

We Will Remember Them.

Marketing Working Group

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he Town Council, along with representatives from a wide variety of community groups, has established a Marketing Working Group with the aim of promoting and marketing the many assets Great Torrington has to both local residents and visitors. The group is working together to encourage footfall in the town centre and to promote enjoyment of the various historical, cultural, sporting, leisure and environmental experiences offered in our town throughout the year.

The working group held its first meeting in September and members are already working on a number of projects. This includes updating maps of the town centre, developing a new history trail, improving information about Great Torrington’s attractions across a number of websites, for example, www.OneGreatTorrington. uk and www.visitdevon.co.uk and establishing a new Treasure Trail for Great Torrington.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any ideas as to how we can promote the great things our town has to offer, and keep an eye out in future editions of The Crier for updates on how we are progressing.

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Environment Working Group Seven ‘Quick Wins’

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he Environment Working Group has established, and the Environment Committee has adopted, the following seven ‘Quick Wins’.

1. REPAIR, REUSE, RECYCLE: have things repaired if possible, try Men’s Shed, buy from Charity Shops/Second-hand. If it has to go: recycle it.

2. If you have to buy it new, and for everyday items and food, when you can, SHOP LOCAL from Independent shops, and if you can, avoid single-use plastics.

3. REDUCE FOOD WASTE: Torridge has 200 tons of food waste a month. Don’t over-buy/love your freezer/compost what you can.

4. SAVE WATER: 4-minute shower challenge/turn the tap off when brushing your teeth/get a water butt for the garden. See southwestwater.co.uk/savewater for tips and free water-saving devices.

5. SAVE ELECTRICITY: insulate your home/switch to LED light bulbs/turn off at the switch/only boil the water you need/switch to a renewable electricity company for your power. Contact 361energy.org to see if you qualify for a free energy-saving consultation, they can also help you to switch to a cheaper/more environment friendly tariff.

6. FLY LESS: car share/use public transport/when (and if) you can walk!

7. LET YOUR GARDEN GO WILD: stop mowing/let the wild flowers grow/stop using weed killer and other chemicals and welcome the insects.

GTTC Support Scheme

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ollowing the announcement of a further four-week lockdown the Town Council contacted the team of volunteers who had been working across the community earlier in the year. We then wrote to previous clients to offer assistance with prescription collection and delivery during the renewed period of restriction.

This time the Town Council also worked with TTVS, who offered additional services such as shopping and social phone calling.

We were mindful that a lot of our previous volunteers would be working and/or at university, but despite this, it was heart-warming to see so many offer up their services again. We are very grateful to all who have volunteered this year and been able to help so many people from across our community.

Arts Society North Devon Lectures

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he Arts Society North Devon is continuing to deliver its outstanding lectures via Zoom.

Enjoy top quality talks from the comfort of your home during the pandemic.

For more information visit tasnorthdevon.org.uk or contact the Chairman on selman.smile@talktalk. net or phone 01271866661. Email: emailjoaniesam@gmail.com.

Grateful Thanks to a Stranger

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big thank-you to the gentleman who kindly came to my assistance when I fell onto my face in the afternoon of 16th October in the car park in town, and also to a lady who was quickly at my side as well. He kindly walked me to the dentist where I had an appointment, the First Aider there cleaned my wounds.

After a check-up at A&E I am home with lots of grazes and scratches to my face, and two black eyes, but no bones broken. The First Aider at Torrington Dental Practice even telephoned a couple of days later to see how I was.

What a kind and caring community there is in Torrington - thank you to all concerned.

A very grateful local lady

**Reopening on 3rd December after lockdown**

Tanya’s Holistic Beauty & Nails Studio

www.tanyasbeautystudio.co.uk tanyasbeautystudio@yahoo.co.uk 01805 625400 15 Fore Street, Torrington, EX38 8HQ

18

Crime Prevention Messages from Devon & Cornwall Police Beware Porch Pirates…

Did you take advantage of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals at the end of November? Thieves know that many of you are expecting parcels through the post over the coming days and will be looking out for them on your doorsteps, behind your bins and so on.

Please arrange for your deliveries to arrive at a time when you are home, or if that is not possible, direct the courier to leave them with a trusted neighbour.

If you see any suspicious activity, please report this to us, which leads me to… …Incident Reporting!

It has come to my attention that some incidents and potential crimes have been posted on social media platforms but have not been reported to the Police. I’ve heard anecdotes of theft and hearsay of minor issues here and there, but have no evidence of these issues on the Police system.

Unfortunately, the Police do not have the capacity to monitor social media pages and so there is the potential that the things you see within your community are not coming to our attention.

Everything the Police does has to be evidence-led, so we cannot target resources to a problem without the incident logs, intelligence or crime reports to justify that action. Please do report to the Police, every instance of theft, damage or anti-social behaviour no matter how minor, through the correct channels. It really helps us to build a better picture of what is going on in the area and

will enable us to respond accordingly and target our resources effectively.

Never hesitate to report any incidents of suspicious behaviour or suspicious vehicles. You might think what you’ve seen is minor, but if it doesn’t feel right it may well not be, and sharing that information with us could be a key piece of information in an investigation. I know that the 101 telephone line can sometimes cause frustration as it can take a while to get through, but we now have many more ways of hearing from you. Please, please make use of them: * If your call is an emergency do not hesitate to call 999. * For non-emergencies you can either phone 101 (calls cost 15p) or email 101@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk * If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can textphone us on 18001 101 or sms/text 67101. * Your local Policing team are here for you. You can even report to them directly via email: https://www.devon-cornwall. police.uk/find-team * We have an online crime reporting form: https://services.devon-cornwall. police.uk/crimereporting/ * And a webchat facility: https://www. devon-cornwall.police.uk/contact/non-

emergency-101/how-to-use-web-chat/ * We have Devon and Cornwall Alert which is a two-way community messaging system. It tells people what is happening in their area and allows them to respond directly with any information. https://alerts.dc.police.uk/ * You can also report via Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111. This is totally anonymous.

Please report through the channels I have outlined above. We will only ever get the true picture through your continued support in this matter.

Kim Foster, Crime Prevention Officer for North and West Devon, Devon and Cornwall Police Crime Figures for the Torridge Sector over the last 28 days, up until 5th November Burglary Dwelling 4 Burglary Non-Dwelling 3 Violence with Injury 27 Violence without injury 70 Robbery 0 Shoplifting 12 Other Theft 14 Criminal Damage 27 Public Order 13 Vehicle Offences 5

19

From Your County Councillor…

C

an I once steadily since August, with the number again thank of tests carried out doubling. Most all the people current cases have had contacts traced in Torrington Rural for through the NHS Test and Trace system everything you have and, according to the Director of Public done and are doing Health, the latest performance data at during this pandemic. the start of November showed over 75 I know that a second per cent of contacts are followed up in lockdown will have Devon. been a blow for many Nevertheless, prior to the second people, especially for lockdown cases in Devon were rising in our local businesses who have worked all age groups and it remains absolutely so hard to remain open, have put in essential that we all follow the public ‘Covid Secure’ measures and kept our health guidelines and remember to local economy going. observe ‘Hands, Face, Space’ – sticking However, at the time of writing (11th to social distancing, regular hand November) it does now appear that washing and wearing a face covering in there is light at the end of the tunnel, an enclosed space. with positive news about a vaccine being I know it is difficult and we all long to announced in recent days. As I have return to normality, but I have no doubt also reported in previous editions of The at all that one of the reasons why our Crier, locally and infection numbers "Torridge still has one of the lowest are lower in both county wide our infection numbers Torrington Rural, infection rates in the country and in Devon have has the lowest rate of all the Devon and Devon, has remained low, been precisely Districts..." and here in because we’ve Torrington Rural well below the national seen such strong adherence to the basic average. guidelines. It should also be said too I asked the Director of Public Health for that Torrington Rural’s residents, shops, the background information behind our businesses, educational establishments local coronavirus cases and, in general, and care homes have all behaved the cases picked up within Torridge tend impeccably to limit the impact of the to be scattered - with a scattering of 1-2 virus. infections cropping up in workplaces, As we go through the second national schools, and routine staff and resident lockdown, we must keep up our efforts at testing in care homes. Cases have all times so that if and when we do revert also been limited to single or whole back to more regional and locally based households, with no evidence yet of restrictions, we can be in a good position wider community spread. to have a safe Christmas.

Torridge still has one of the lowest I want to assure readers that Devon infection rates in the country and has the County Council and its partners will be lowest rate of all the Devon Districts, at doing all that it can to support those in approximately two thirds of the overall need during these difficult times. The Devon rate and a quarter of the national County Council re-opened its Covid-19 rate, which is good news.

Grant Fund up to the 2nd December to Across the whole of Devon, while our provide flexible funding for organisations case numbers have risen in line with supporting those in need and has also the national picture, they remain below been awarded £2million from Central the national average and in October Government to support vulnerable the majority of infections (55%) were children and families over the coming in young adults aged 16 to 39. Testing months. Over the coming weeks a range capacity has increased in Devon and of community kitchens, holiday clubs, the number of tests completed has risen charities and local businesses will be

20

enlisted to coordinate help and support those who need it in the most in Devon.

They will ensure that every child entitled to Free School Meals will be able to get food over the Christmas holiday, during the Easter half-term, and the Easter holidays. The County Council’s top priority is to ensure those in receipt of free school meals have enough to eat over the holidays, but the Council also wants to help and support people with wider vulnerabilities as well during this difficult time.

Lastly, I am working with the District and County Councils to secure funding for new ‘work hubs’ in Torrington Rural, which will provide bespoke office space and facilities for workers and businesses who will be working from home, not just for now but for the future.

While it has been a most extraordinarily difficult year, I know that we will get through this stronger as a community and we will see each other again. I wish all readers of the Crier a safe and Happy Christmas. If there are any County Council issues you would like to contact me about you can ring me on 07886 446 560 or email andrew. saywell@ devon.gov.uk.

From Your District Councillors…

W

hat a crazy from one hour per day month it’s to up to eight hours by been; we have appointment. The council had various extraordinary showed unanimous meetings, two community support for these and resources changes. committees, three full The second motion councils, and a members was lobbying local MPs briefing on the proposed and central government planning reforms, as to support farmers and well as all of the regular protect food standards committee meetings. by supporting the TDC approved both Winkleigh and amendments to the Agriculture Bill. The Great Torrington’s neighbourhood plans. amendments have been recommended We also approved TDC’s strategic by the House of Lords on numerous plan, an air quality supplementary occasions for those very reasons and planning document, a Coastal Concordat, a moorings and "TDC also announced a support package facilities policy, a port marine of £141,000 was being given to leisure safety code, approval to provider 1610 to cover costs lost through explore forming a dedicated the pandemic, and out of that, only Destination Management Northam pool would be reopened at first, Organisation (DMO) for while Great Torrington Pool undergoes Northern Devon, and a formal response opposing much of the £65,000 of work to remove asbestos government’s proposals on the discovered in the roof. " ‘planning for the future’ white paper. yet still they are being voted down in the Cllr Cottle-Hunkin submitted two House of Commons. motions to Torridge District Council, Cllr Bright also submitted a motion, which were both passed successfully. which was seconded by Cllr Brown, The first was lobbying NDDH to ease and was supported well with public maternity restrictions which had been contributions from David Gibbons on imposed due to the pandemic. The behalf of the Museum trustees, Kevin Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust Stevens, Sue Shrubsole, Linda Copp, have now changed their restrictions Sue Leech and our very own Mayor of in line with government guidance to Great Torrington. The motion proposed now allow partners back in to attend repair and maintenance works at both milestone scans, to be present for the Market House and the Pannier Market. induction of labour, the whole of labour, Works are to include the repairing of the and increased visiting hours for partners lift, the leaking roof, painting the front

facade, repairing the rotting window frames, repairing the gates, upgrading to more energy efficient lighting, and upgrading the down pipes to reduce further risk of flooding. It was well supported, and is now awaiting an officer report with costings, and is en route to the major projects committee where it will be discussed further.

TDC also announced a support package of £141,000 was being given to leisure provider 1610 to cover costs lost through the pandemic, and out of that, only Northam pool would be reopened at first, while Great Torrington Pool undergoes £65,000 of work to remove asbestos discovered in the roof.

However, the lockdown announcement has now thwarted these plans to reopen, which is most frustrating for everyone.

As a result of the new lockdown, there are many new grants available from central government, which are being administered by Torridge District Council, including business support grants and hardship schemes, so please do contact the council if you think you might be eligible.

If you have any queries, please get in touch.

Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, 07495 367 801, Cllr.cottle-hunkin@torridge.gov.uk Cllr Chris Bright, 07936 325 909, Councillor.bright@torridge.gov.uk

21

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Great Torrington Remembers

Third Engineer Ernest Reginald Copp rnest Copp was born in Ilfracombe in 1892. His father, Thomas Copp, who was originally from Roborough, was a ‘coach proprietor’; his mother, Edith, was born in Bideford. The 1901 census has the family living at 109 High Street, Ilfracombe. The family also includes his three brothers, Thomas, Charles and Arthur. His brother, Charles, also fought and died in the Great War; he was a Lance Corporal with the 2nd Dorsets (you can read more about his life at www.greattorringtonremembers.co.uk).

By 1911 the brothers’ lives had taken different directions. By this time Ernest, now aged 19 years, had moved to Bristol living at 29 Belvoir Road. He is listed as living as a boarder with the Hawkins family. The Hawkins family includes the head, James Henry, a ‘tailor master’, his wife, Ada Augusta Mary, a ‘school mistress’ and their son, Cecil Henry Lionel, who was of school age at the time. Ernest’s profession is listed as an ‘apprentice to general engineering’.

Just as the brothers’ lives would head in different directions, so would their service in the military. Ernest joined the merchant navy. Sadly, I have been unable to find any details of his recruitment and dates. We do know that he held the rank of Third Engineer, which was presumably obtained as a result of his civilian engineering experience. We also know that he was assigned to the ship SS Santa Amelia. As we have seen from other stories, cargo freighters would commonly be armed and manned for their own defence at sea. The SS Santa Amelia was a steel construction cargo ship, powered by steam, built in 1906 and owned by the Eagle Oil & Shipping Co. Records show that the ship was attacked off the Irish coast on 28th December 1917. The German U-boat, SM U-19, torpedoed without warning and sunk the Santa Amelia in the North Atlantic 30 miles northwest of Malin Head. The crew of 43 hands were all lost at sea. I noted that a high percentage of the crew were of Chinese nationality and are subsequently remembered on the Hong Kong naval memorial.

The brothers are remembered on the Great Torrington war memorial, as well as the Ilfracombe memorial. Ernest’s grave is unmarked, but he is commemorated at the Tower Hill naval memorial in London.

I’m afraid I have been unable to find a photo of Ernest, but I would be interested in this, or any further information you may have. Please feel free to contact me on 07583 607434.

Michael Newcombe

E

22

Little Torrington WI

A

ll members received a goody bag this month, including a hyacinth bulb to plant and a quiz to stretch the mind. Two committee members kindly organised and delivered and it was well received.

We are now comfortable with using Zoom for all our meetings. Our speaker in October was Dr Ann Stobart, an expert in medicinal herbs. In November Rachel Dunn from ‘All Dunn Up’ will be showing off her millinery skills and in December we will be making a Christmas centrepiece.

As well as our speaker-led meetings, we have a 4-week arts workshop running, this time using acrylics.

Our Book Club is in the groove and our virtual coffee morning is a great opportunity to chat. Members are also branching out joining various WI Facebook pages (Wanderers and Unofficial WI), attending online courses and Denman lectures.

One of this year’s national campaigns was sponsored by the Barnstaple Bloomers. This aims to increase the number of registered potential stem cell donors. With Zoom distance is no object. The Bloomers have organised a session on this subject for later this month which will be attended by up to 200 members from across the country. If you fancy coming on board, if only whilst the pandemic rules, email our secretary Linda at littletorringtonwi@gmail.com.

More national information is available on www.thewi.org.uk and on our local Facebook page: Little Torrington WI. Sally Ramsden

Abbeyfield

I

am pleased to report that all the residents have kept well during the enforced lockdowns and are remarkably cheerful. This has been due to the care of the staff team who look after them like members of their own families. They are a small caring and supportive team led by an excellent House Manager. Nothing is too much trouble and support is always there when family and friends are unable to visit.

We can be sure that Christmas Day will be celebrated in style, even if there is uncertainty about our usual events leading up to the festival. We will miss the visits from the carol singers, young and old, as well as meeting friends at our Christmas coffee morning.

We were all shocked and saddened by the unexpected death of Trish Simmons, a valued member of the House Committee. Trish visited and supported any resident who wanted company or help and played a part in all the activities at the house and on outings. We all miss her.

We look forward to better times in 2021 and to welcoming you back to Glen Tor before too long.

Fleur’s Gardening Forum

Christmas Quiz Here’s something for all you budding gardeners, to get those brain cells exercised after you have eaten your fill on Christmas Day and can’t move out of your armchair!

1. Quercus robur is a stately mature native tree, what is its common name?

2. The Rowan tree has another common name, what is it?

3. What is the name of the tree Prunus dulcis, a popular health food?

4. Name our 3 native conifers?

5. Salix babylonica is a type of willow, but which one?

6. Which hardy annual seeds can be picked and used as a substitute for capers?

7. Sweet William is a member of which Genus of sweetly scented perennials?

8. ‘Bishop’s Children’ is a variety of what tuberous perennial?

9. Lupin seeds are poisonous, true or false?

Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group

F

or obvious reasons, there is nothing to report since my last article. During this second lockdown, we can all reflect on this last year and how it has affected us all in different ways; there have been undoubtedly some good aspects and some not so good. It is my understanding that our friends in Roscoff have been going through similar measures as we

have and we wish them a speedy return to normality.

Although the group has postponed all events and gatherings until it is safe to continue, we welcome new members.

We currently have over 40 members.

Age is no barrier, as we have members ranging from 10 years and upwards; you don't have to be able to speak French.

If you are interested in joining us,

10. Penstemon plants are native to which country?

11. ‘Charlotte’, ‘Maris Bard’ and ‘Pink Fir Apple’ are varieties of which vegetable?

12. Maize, wheat and rice are all wind pollinated, true or false?

13. Leeks are a member of which Genus?

14. Which vegetable genus can suffer from a disease called Club Root?

15. What colour is the Lily Beetle?

16. Which famous garden has a lavender named after it?

17. RHS Rosemoor has a national collection of which evergreen shrub/ tree?

18. Which North Devon garden has a national collection of Astilbe?

19. The common named of Streptocarpus is what?

20. Which prehistoric conifer was fairly recently discovered growing in a remote valley in Australia?

Answers on page 35

please contact: Antony Jefferies (Secretary) 01271 549454, or Nick Roberts (Chairman) 01805 625765.

On behalf of all our members, I would like to wish everyone Seasons Greetings; keep safe and let's all look forward to a better New Year.

Nick Roberts

23

Notable Buildings in Torrington Part Four

W

alking up South Street from the square you come to number 28, Cawsey House, on your left. This fine house, built in 1701, was completely restored by the Landmark Trust in 1996 using authentic materials, such as lead for rainwater pipes, sash window weights, and retaining historic window glass wherever possible. The house is of a similar architectural style to Palmer House in New Street, with its red brick, sashed windows and wooden cornice.

One of the finest features inside is the ornamental plasterwork in the principal staircase and main rooms, which are heavily embellished with natural motifs such as acanthus leaves and branches, and there is also some rope work. In one of the ground floor rooms there is a plaster ceiling with lobed centre, and an exquisitely modelled group of musical instruments. Outside, there is a very attractive porch head with trophies in relief inside the hood. This house can be rented by holidaymakers from the Landmark Trust and can sleep up to seven people.

Further up South Street, on the same side, is number 42, Furse House, built in about 1810 for Charles William Johnson.

The son of a Torrington apothecary, Johnson was orphaned at the age of ten and brought up by relations who sent him to India at the age of 17 to become an indigo planter. There he made his fortune and returned to marry a cousin, Theresa Furse, of Halsdon, Dolton. He extended the property to include number 44 next door. Johnson was five times Mayor and his name appears on the

Market Hall. One of his sons was the classical poet, William Cory (he took his grandmother's name), a master at Eton and composer of the Eton Boating Song, who spent his childhood in this house.

After the death of Charles William Johnson the property was split into individual houses. Furse House (so called from the mid-19th century onwards after the Johnson family changed their name to Furse) was acquired by Samuel Doidge and for about forty years housed the Middle Class School, a day and boarding school for boys.

A builder, Henry Grant, lived in the house for a while and then, during the First World War, it was occupied by an artist, Francis Edward James, who leased it from the Torrington Town Lands who owned the property. He was a flower painter and, to Torrington's amazement, he painted the house peacock blue and white. He furnished it exquisitely and created a formal flower garden out of the vegetable patch at the back which stretched into the fields.

In 1920 the Town Lands leased the house to a Mrs Isabella Van Wisselingh (whose address was 3 Hyde Park Mansions, London) and she bought it from the charity a year later. In 1926 she sold it to a Mrs Sandford (whose husband ran the creamery) and Furse House remained in the Sandford family until it was sold to Mr Banta Singh in

1957, who turned the ground floor into a drapery shop. A dumb waiter used in the shop exists to this day. Mr Singh eventually sold the property and it returned, after some forty years, to being a family house.

Moira Brewer

Let’s Talk Torrington Support Group Relaunching in January 2021 Tuesdays 12-2pm Castle Community Centre, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Are you... * Living with a mental health issue? * Experiencing emotional distress? * Suffering with depression, anxiety or loneliness? * Feeling the effect of COVID-19?

If you are interested in attending our group please contact Clarity on 01271 267474 to book an assessment or email Clarity.northdevon@yahoo.co.uk for more details.

NEW PHONE NUMBER! 01805 624141 24

FOR FAST, FRIENDLY, LOCAL SERVICE CALL ROB ON 01805 624141 OR 07717 3131941

St Giles In The Wood Parish Council

T

he Parish Council is delighted to announce that the Village Green car park in St Giles in the Wood has been resurfaced with a grant from Deep Moor of ÂŁ11,625.

The Parish Council and parishioners’ grateful thanks are extended to Deep

Moor for this generous grant enabling the work to be undertaken.

The resulting work is excellent and much appreciated by all who use the area to park their cars.

25

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Finding Barney, A Trip Down Memory could be as simple as a£1.blue dependingLane on the season, may well be £2(this Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am per child – under 1s £1 – siblings Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Saturday 13th mushroom upside down flowering at the time of the walk.

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His was a trade that is fast needBickington help. If you know that the northern end, destroying the topWe of Youth Community Walsingham in now vicarage in disappearing 1983.

It isPete unique in Trio Gallery Gig The Canter ‘Jack’ Johncell Bell lives in Brazil! my Club eyes.aHigh The picture had been placed and youngsters need you had resident hedgehog in your Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm The now Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pm the incline.

This canal @ basin thattoitknow provides therapeutic @ TheofPlough sit on our computers and reminisce about area on Facebook by a Mr Glen Davey and 8.18pm these trades and the men last year don’t forget Clubplease 7pm Juniors 8pm to put Plough supports an increasing population of Badminton visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing the many jobs we did and slowly the I shall always be in his debt.

To see a who suffered such hardships to keep a bowl of water and some food out for Adults @ Bickington Community Centre Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a and care23rd homes, special needs Tuesday forgotten jobs back.

It waswhich, during Cribbage picture of Barney after some fifty years them alive. I hope your teachers will them, placing it inside a feeding station pairs competition @ Torrington Beast 2pm @ Thecome Plough green flowered orchid) schools a variety other venues Youth Cluband for 11+ 5-7pmof@High such a session that 7pm Torrington is a8pm remarkable find. Barney was a tell their childrenCentre how men like Barney Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) @ The came up. Arms Bickington Community I havenote to admit mostfor oflong it is film a blur, but Film Torrington man through drove hundreds of sheep from places 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @and Thethrough and Plough early start Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm starthim for long filmthought. Like there is always something or someone Plough I asknote youearly to give a kind like and Cornwall all the way to Adults @ Devon High Bickington Community CRIER COPY DEADLINE for who triggers the faded memory.

I loved old fashioned steeplejacking, his was Centre London, a feat that seems impossible

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Hickfords Property Services Wednesday 17th

Professional Builder, Carpenter Damp Specialist your town,2013’ everyone so friendly & and a trade that was extremely dangerous, now. Without a doubt, Barney was a ‘MAY bywas 12noon Church SaidtoMass 8.30am so it came today that weplease lodged in one of the St Michael's and his contribution the town cannotWednesday special man24th and it was a pleasure for Free eJames  Damp Surveys & Remedial Works stiunderestimated. mates &Chapel St Michael's Church Said Mass his 8.30am town’s inns. Neither of us could recall frinienSt be The food that was us London boys to share company. dly adTennis Short  Woodworm & Rot Treatments vice HNC @ High Bickington James Chapel , tables of your town’s elderly in St If NVQ an which one and it was for this reason put on the I had my way I would put a plaque on d InstituteCentre 4.30-5.30pmProviding Friday Community for 5+ quality but  Kitchen 12th & Bathroom Design & Fitting of Short Tennis @ Highaffordable Bickington oodcitizens Preservin was I turnedChurch to the Said CrierMass to see if they WRoyal only made possible by hard Marwood Court with a simple inscription Stthat Michael's 8.30am g & Legion 3rd Weds of every British Damp -Pro  Property Maintenance Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+ ofilike ng @ accountancy and taxation services. help.Chapel The only clue I had was that month men Barney working in the harshest ‘Barney Hutchings a Torrington Drover incould St James 7pm GT Conservative Club qualified Film 'Fire in the Blood' (PG) 8pm @ The  Extensions Theatre Puppet a reallyScottish friendlyFalsetto man called Barney was Film of'No' conditions. lived here’.

I think many of your older 8pm @ The Plough Plough  Landscaping &The Decking Theatre 7pmIt@ Plough group a regular. wasn’t long before people Atherington WithoutAcorns, a doubt,fun, thefriendly kind and friendly citizens, and perhaps some younger www.pgdaccountants.com Gallery Gigthe 'Judith Christie & suggestions, Diane for people parents of & children aged 0-5 made this a Thursday wroteContact to Crier making Torrington really ones, would share that sentiment.

25th Colin Hickford C.S.R.T—Tel 01805 623376 Calvert 8.15pm @ The Plough Tel: 01271 268082 Mob: 07810 448 618Steeplejack 9.30am-11am @ Atherington Pavilion Tom Benfield, London and with their help I was able to move brilliant ‘away job’.

Of the hundreds of St Michael's Church Said Mass Mob: 07976 936 465 Email: hickford208@aol.com every Wednesday term time. tommybenfield@googlemail.com forward. places I worked, Torrington was one of Image: My friend Barney 10 One Torrington gentleman, Bob Fisher, the best and had I the chance I would 11 Hutchings, an image found on Facebook said that he had worked in the pub where have liked to have settled there. The

26

Ask fo

Local, fri CRB Che

TRFC Juniors

I

am sure I won't be the only one reporting this month about the frustrations of the latest lockdown measures now in place.

Just as we seemed to be getting somewhere, we then have to stop.

Frustrating, but essential for the wellbeing of everyone, which we are happy to support.

Hopefully we will be able to return for a couple sessions with the kids before the Christmas break. Before we got locked down, we were at stage D of the RFU

"If the Government's rules allow, and weather dependant, we will be training again on Sunday 6th and Sunday 13th December, we will then return on Sunday 10th January." return to rugby roadmap. No games against other clubs allowed, but could just about start doing contact rugby again and the kids were really starting to enjoy it. The coaches have worked really hard in ensuring a safe playing environment, sanitising everything every 15 minutes!

If the Government's rules allow, and weather dependant, we will be training again on Sunday 6th and Sunday 13th December, we will then return on Sunday 10th January. All at Torrington Rugby Club from 10am.

As always, if you would like more information about anything or have young people interested in playing, please contact Adrian Avery (Youth Chairman) at agavery81@gmail.com or 07780 665 378.

We are always looking for new players (and coaches) of all abilities.

Best wishes and stay safe!

Torrington RFC

S

ome very disappointing news. As if it couldn’t get any worse?

The RFU has decided that any club in leagues below level 3 (we are level 9) will not be playing in any recognisable league game format!

However, they are working extremely hard to come up with some sort of system to get us back playing rugby in a friendly, very local interclub network. What this is we shall have to wait and see.

This has come as a major blow to our willingness to get back to playing.

However, we are still ploughing on trying to keep the club active.

Sadly, the second lockdown has put a temporary halt to the juniors training. More from them elsewhere.

A treasure hunt around the town is being organised, within Government guidelines, to offer people a fun form of exercise. Hopefully, this will have occurred before this copy hits your doormats.

Free lunches for children Huge thanks must go to our committee member Charlene Hoare, who organised free lunches for children who otherwise may have gone hungry over half term.

Initially the lunch would have consisted of a ham or cheese sandwich, bag of crisps and a drink. However, in true Torrington spirit donations of food, money and help flooded in enabling the lunches to be substantially better, making life so much easier for those less fortunate than others. It remains to be seen whether the scheme will be happening over the Christmas period. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for information.

Let’s hope this current lockdown is the last we have to endure and with the fantastic news of a vaccine being developed, we can return to some sense of normality. If that’s ever possible again?

Have a great Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

C’mon Torrie!

Mark Waterson Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Enjoyment & Teamwork

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27

Businesses - Covid-19 Support Update

A

t the time of writing (11th November 2020) we have entered the second lockdown and an extension to the support provided

by Government has been announced.

Job Retention Scheme This was due to end on 31st October 2020 and be replaced by the Job Support Scheme.

The CJRS (also known as the furlough scheme) will remain open until 31 March 2021. For claim periods running to January 2021, employees will receive 80% of their usual salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500 per month. The £2,500 cap is proportional to the hours not worked.

The government will review the policy in January 2021 to decide whether economic circumstances are improving enough to ask employers to contribute more.

The key points to the extended scheme are: * Employers do not need to have used the CJRS previously. * Employers across the UK can claim, whether their businesses are open or closed. * Employers can claim for employees who were employed and on their PAYE payroll on 30 October 2020. The employer must have made a PAYE Real Time Information (RTI) submission to HMRC between the 20 March 2020 and 30 October 2020, notifying a payment of earnings for that employee. * Employers will have flexibility to use the scheme for employees for any amount of time or shift pattern, furloughing employees on either a full-time or part-

28

time basis, and will be able to vary the hours worked in, as under the current CJRS rules, employees can be on any type of employment contract.

Full details of the changes are currently available at: www.gov.uk/ government/publications/extension-tothe-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme/ extension-of-the-coronavirus-jobretention-scheme Self-Employment Income Support Scheme Grant Extension The extension will last for six months, from November 2020 to April 2021.

Grants will be paid in two lump sum instalments each covering a three month period.

The third grant will cover a three month period from 1 November 2020 until 31 January 2021. The Government will provide a taxable grant calculated at 80% of three months average monthly trading profits, paid out in a single instalment and capped at £7,500 in total.

This is an increase from the previously announced amount of 55%.

The Government has already announced that there will be a fourth grant covering February 2021 to April 2021. The Government will set out further details, including the level, of the fourth grant in due course.

Details of the changes are currently available at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/self-employment-incomesupport-scheme-grant-extension/selfemployment-income-support-schemegrant-extension Other Measures/Changes The following additional measures/ changes have also been announced:

* Cash grants of up to £3,000 per month for businesses which have been mandated to close by Government – check with your local authority for details * £1.1 billion is being given to Local Authorities, distributed on the basis of £20 per head, for one-off payments to enable them to support businesses more broadly – if you are not already covered by the above grant it may be worth checking with your council to see if any discretionary help is available * Plans to extend existing governmentbacked loan schemes and the Future Fund to the end of January, and an ability to top-up Bounce Back Loans * An extension to the mortgage payment holiday for homeowners If you or your business are not sure about the help available to you, we would be very happy to help.

Contact Keith Berry on 01805 628122 or email keith.berry@berrysaccountants. co.uk.

With the very best of wishes to you all for a safe and Merry Christmas and our hopes for a more normal New Year!

Keith Berry FCA (Berrys Chartered Accountants)

RHS Apprentices

Horticulture is the career I always wanted but didn’t realise iselle Silvester originally trained in technical theatre, but after a couple of years, she sought a different direction, working in a variety of roles supporting adults and children with additional needs. It was during this time that the penny dropped, as she found that working outside, particularly in a multi-sensory environment, not only benefited her learner’s physical and mental health, it also benefited hers, and had the potential to positively relate to the environment. She said, “I’ve always loved the outdoors, practical and creative work underpinned by theory and with the ultimate purpose of making the world a better place”.

After an unrelated move to Devon, Giselle heard about the Apprenticeship scheme at RHS Rosemoor. She said “For me it was important to be trained well, so that my impact would be informed and I feel incredibly lucky to have found this work based option; being able to learn and apply new-found knowledge every day for two years is incomparable”.

RHS Apprentices spend two years earning and learning in one of five prestigious RHS gardens, such as RHS Rosemoor. They work alongside experienced and inspiring horticulturists to gain a real understanding of the seasonal work involved in an ornamental garden. Giselle says of RHS Rosemoor, “If you haven’t been to Rosemoor, I recommend a visit and if you have, I still recommend a visit! It is a garden of two halves, nestled in a small north

G

Devon wooded valley. As an apprentice I rotated through teams (Lady Anne’s old garden, formal garden, nursery and edibles) covering all areas in all seasons during the two years. The staff here are super supportive and hold a wealth of knowledge that they readily impart.”

RHS Apprentices learn through a combination of lecture weeks at college and online learning, which prepare them to achieve theory and practice end-point assessments, as well as submitting a professional portfolio. Giselle had pesticide training and was required to pass emergency first aid at work as part of the course, but said she was also lucky enough to do professional competency tickets in strimming, hedge trimming and tractor driving.

“As an Apprentice at RHS Rosemoor, opportunity was always thrown in my direction and I was able to gain a wellrounded education.

The edibles garden is one area where I felt particularly inspired by the connections between edible plants and people. I love the orchard and some of my favourite tasks have been learning different pruning requirements and the harvest. This led me to apply for further work based training on the one-year Specialist Horticultural Placement (SHP), which I have just started. In the future, I’d like to work within a kitchen garden or to support others to add edibles to their own or their business’s gardens. Plot to plate has the potential to improve health,

well-being and be a more delicious, sustainable way of eating. I can’t imagine wanting to do anything else”.

So would Giselle recommend applying for an RHS Apprentice to others? She said, “My hesitations were based on age and salary. The RHS pays a living wage, which meant I could still pay my bills, and the RHS welcomes diversity so age was an unfounded worry. The world of horticulture is essential and future career options are hugely varied. My advice to anyone is: don’t hesitate”.

For the first time, the RHS will be offering a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Landscape or Horticulture Supervisor, an ideal way of progressing your career towards a more senior or assistant manager role.

Recruitment window Applications open for all programmes on 1 December 2020 SHP applications close on 1 February 2021 Apprenticeship applications close on 1 March 2021 Visit: rhs.org.uk/rhsschoolofhorticulture Contact: schoolofhorticulture@rhs.org.uk Follow:@RHSEducation

Every Wednesday morning & evening 1646 Community Hall, South Street Appointment only Call/Text Lisa on 07515 256 965 29

The Crier Prize Crossword The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a three bottle gift set from Clearwater Brewery.. 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 issue’s prize is Beryl Heard. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 14th January and the solution and winner will be in the February issue.

30

New Ownership for Clearwater Brewery

My name is Brett Stephens and I thought it would be a good idea to take on a small brewery during a pandemic!

Many of you will know that Clearwater Brewery was founded in Great Torrington back in 1998 and is now located in Bideford. I have worked here for nearly three years and have recently taken ownership. Some might argue that this is a mad thing to do in these times, but I am passionate about brewing and customer service so, as they say, nothing ventured...

Our range varies from light, easy drinking ales to fuller, chestnut styles and each recipe has been carefully developed to deliver great taste and quality. All are available in 500ml bottles, 5 litre mini-kegs, gift boxes for home delivery and we supply 4.5 or 9 gallon casks to many local pubs.

As I am writing this, we have just entered a second lockdown so our supply to the pub trade has all but come to a halt again.

However, we have a new website for online ordering for home and are delivering for free in the Torrington area (I live in New Street!). Orders can be placed through the website, by email or phone - all payments, deliveries and collections are contactless with social distancing measures in place.

As with all small businesses at the moment, we will appreciate any support that comes our way - shop local where you can, stay safe and, although it won't be a 'normal' one, have a good Christmas.

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01805 938502 07711 079 577 Steamship Freshspring Celebrates Four Years in Bideford

D

uring the Second World War, work. Volunteers stepped forward and a fleet of fresh water carrying achieved miracles with the ship but some steam ships was commissioned things needed funds. The wheelhouse by the Royal Navy to deliver water to and boat deck were rotten but the team warships. These became the ‘Fresh’ persisted. class of ships and the last one to be built Four years later with Heritage Lottery

by Lytham Shipbuilders, in 1946, was Funding, local financial support and in named ‘Freshspring’. She served most the safe hands of the people of Bideford, of her time in Malta before being retired SS Freshspring is a very different ship. to the Clyde in the late 1970s where she Welcoming over 3,500 visitors during was decommissioned and mothballed.

2018/2019, the Trust’s 54 registered While all of her sister ships were volunteers have been working hard to scrapped, Freshspring was sold into make sure that the visitor experience is civilian life and truly memorable. was towed to a From 2017"...a virtual reality tour, currently new life in Bristol’s 2019, the being created in partnership with Floating Harbour.

BMT Global, will provide a valuable Steamship However, all did Freshspring Trust education resource and let the public contributed over not go well and in tour the ship without leaving the the late 1980s she £18,000 to the comfort of the fore deck..." eventually ended local economy. up moored on the With its own banks of the River Severn at Newnham, brand of beer, sponsored and brewed in where her machinery was kept in a local brewery, and a range of branded good order by her then owner, though clothing, also supplied locally, the Trust externally she was deteriorating. is proud to cultivate maritime pride In 2012, a charitable trust was set back into Bideford and be part of the up with the aim of saving Freshspring, community. and she was acquired by the Trust in SS Freshspring is more than a 2013. Major funds for hull repairs were steamship. She’s a place for volunteers gained in 2016 and on 16th Oct 2016, to meet, learn new skills and have a SS Freshspring, towed by the tug Severn sense of purpose. She’s a classroom for Sea, made her way down the Bristol local schools where education involves Channel and up the Torridge to a new hands on activities and learning, she’s a home in Bideford. It was an amazing venue for art classes, she helps young journey managed by a team classed as people to understand careers in maritime lunatics by experts for even attempting and has potential for so much more. this remarkable project.

In recent months, Covid-19 has During her early days in Bideford, forced the Trust to review its ways SS Freshspring could not be opened of working. Confined spaces have to the public, as she needed further made it impossible to safely open the

ship to the public. However, a virtual reality tour, currently being created in partnership with BMT Global, will provide a valuable education resource and let the public tour the ship without leaving the comfort of the fore deck. This is a really exciting piece of work using cutting edge technologies. With the newly crowdfunded awning in place, tours won’t even be hampered by inclement weather!

The next challenge is to secure funding for two essential studies. Tenders are in for feasibility and viability studies and are ready to go. Once funds for this work are obtained, the Trust will learn exactly what needs to be done for SS Freshspring to operate and become economically sustainable. These studies are pivotal pieces of work.

There are so many ways that you could help Freshspring, either from home or by helping on board. You are promised a warm welcome and a range of activities to choose from. Visit www.ssfreshspring. co.uk/get-involved/volunteering to find out more.

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31

Vision

A new life, a new beginning Breathe in. Out. Blinking in the blinding light.

A smiling woman, a proud man.

Moving on, new clothes.

Dark colours, a small emblem on the jumper. Sat in a car, awaiting the same fate as 12 other kids.

7 years of hell ahead of me.

New clothes, new day. Sat on a bus, Surrounded by strangers. No one talking, All sullen. Tie straight, bus stops. Off we get.

New friends, new school.

Sat in a cold room, cold chair. 50 kids sat Around me. Awaiting the same opportunity.

A paper is placed in front of me. Silence.

Time starts now… Have to do well.

Getting the keys, proudest moment.

Slowly turning the key handle, it clicks.

Walking in. Freedom. At last.

A wife. Kids. This is happening to me.

Walking with them to school, same feeling As I felt years ago. Waving goodbye, pride.

It’s fading. The last look. Goodbye.

Cameron Williams, Year 8

Dreaming

I can see the crystal-clear sea in front of me, The roaring waves crashing on the surface of the water, The sky reflecting on the sea, I can hear the whistle coming from the wind, The leaves of trees rattling against each other, And the birds repeatedly chirping in my mind, I can feel the soft touch of sand beneath my feat, The cold water brushing my legs, And the tickle of seaweed that’s been sitting in the heat, I can smell the salt that has filled the air, The smell of sun cream that I rubbed on my skin, And the shampoo that I put in my hair.

Annabel Berry, Year 8

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32

46 South Street, Torrington Tel: 01805 938002 instantimages.devon@btinternet.com www.instantimagesembroidery.co.uk

Vision

I see the sea with my eyes and murder the person looking at me with my hands.

My future is their past.

Daisy Rowlands Year 7 (winner of the KS3 category)

Vision

V vision of the trees, I ice cold winds, S staring out into the hills I indulging in fresh air O on the uneasy paths, we walk N never knowing where to go Georgina Durk, Year 9

A Vision’s Warning

The stars were always there, too bright Glistening truths as yet undiscovered Amazed in dreams of shock that suddenly came true

As always, our annual poetry competition to honour National Poetry Day received a tremendous response. Here are the outstanding poems which made it to the shortlist!

Background noise that no one cares to hear Starstruck by the surroundings that hold you like a kite tuned to keep you in place.

You thought to hear the lightning’s surge of energy?

To carry it through your restless thoughts And generate the connection between past, present And future?

You will not find them here, they blew away.

You are awake, aware of what comes next.

Your vision is yet a warning…

Leah Roy, Year 10 (winner of the KS4 category)

VISION: Being Colour Blind

My eyes are a flame alight That burns brightly through its lantern frame Gazing restlessly ‘pon the world around me Each sight a fixated beauty.

Yet my broken vision blurs the colours Of each ruby red and emerald green.

They form an unreadable shade A restless tone my sight cannot comprehend.

Jess Parker Year 11

In the Blink of an Eye

Vision

The winter is coming in The grey clouds are roaring at me with anger I see snow pouring down from the grey clouds like water from a running tap as it hits the ground it makes a white blanket across the green frost - bitten grass The rain is coming down hard Kicking and screaming The sun keeps trying to show its head It is not going down without a fight But the clouds are now trying to part them What are they going to do?

I see my sister sat there shivering Her hands feel like they are ice cubes She’s wrapped in a bright purple fluffy blanket Sat there with her warm milk in her hand She is sat in a warm jumper as she gives me a hug My dog is wrapped up in a blanket She is fast asleep in a ball Maci Tompkins, Year 9

I close my eyes.

I don’t see blackness, Or a reflection of light.

I see cities of glass.

Burning stone buildings.

New worlds, covered in shadow.

Walls surrounding us, Closing in.

Universes with more colour than our own.

Magic, mischief and melancholy.

All merging into one.

Trapped in a maze.

Slowly crying I see people dying.

Dehumanised.

Forced to fight.

This can’t be real.

It can’t be.

This can’t be our future!

It can’t be.

My eyes open.

Yet, only a second has passed.

Nobody looks at me.

I’m not sure that I want to look.

Is my mind playing tricks?

I’m not sure I want to close my eyes.

Why so many different worlds?

I’m not sure I want to let my mind drift.

Why so many different versions.

I’m not sure which future is real.

Or if any even are!

Olivia Davies, Year 10

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33

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

W

ell, 2020 has certainly been a challenging year for everyone, in many different and unforeseen ways. Our focus here at OWBG has been to view the situation as an opportunity to stretch ourselves, grow and adapt, so we can help our members as much as possible in their efforts to cherish and maintain their good health, and that of their families. Difficult circumstances have actually proved to be the very stimulus we needed to change and upgrade many of the ways we work! We're now more established, organised, offer even better service and our active membership has increased with many messages of thanks and appreciation.

Once again, I invite anyone committed to taking active steps to improve and support their own health, to join us and avail themselves of our many services.

These currently include: monthly ordering from our grocery wholesaler; regular orders from our organic, vegan, made-inthe UK, naturopathic body care supplier; gravity water filters; stainless steel lunchboxes and eco products; UK sea vegetables; Japanese style vegetable brushes and discounts on various other group orders. You'll receive plenty of help and support from us, save money and be able to select from a huge range of high quality organic foods this Christmas and throughout the coming year.

Wellbeing Tip: The Festive Season needs to be just that, particularly this year. The root of the word ‘festive’ embraces joy, feasting, mirthful holiday!

So here's a different way to enjoy the season healthily and more economically,

34

without a trace of frugality!

Mincemeat & Almond Cake Mince pies are lovely but can be excessively sweet and we do also soon tire of them, so here's a different, very enjoyable and easy way to offer the traditional mincemeat taste without lots of fiddly preparation.

Our supplier offers 400g jars of organic sugar free mincemeat - so much nicer than other brands, I find. This cake only uses 140g of mincemeat, so you'll have plenty left for a second one, or pies. If you have a sweeter tooth, of course you can use more. Homemade goodies are so appreciated by friends and family, often much more than readymade gifts.

I like to make up a small basket with a variety of goodies that I know will suit particular friends and they're always enthusiastically received. Vegans and vegetarians are especially grateful to have something they can happily share with others, without running the conversational gauntlet of what they eat, what they don't eat and why it gets boring! The cake is also gluten and dairy free.

Ingredients: all organic 50g brown rice flour 50g maize flour (or more rice flour) 50g millet flour 50g medium oatmeal 50g ground almonds 1.5tsp Doves Farm baking powder (wheat and aluminium free) 2 tbsp ground linseed OR chia seed with 6tbsp warm water 1 tbsp lemon juice 150ml oat milk 140g Infinity sugar free mincemeat

50g coconut oil Method Grease and line a 1lb loaf tin Sift dry ingredients Whisk wet ingredients, forking in the mincemeat at the end.

Add wet to dry, fold in to mix well, but avoid over mixing.

Place in the loaf tin, glaze with a little oat milk.

Bake middle of the oven, gas 5 for 20 mins.

Turn down to gas 4 and bake for 40 mins or until a skewer comes out clean.

Allow to cool in the tin for 10 mins, then turn out on to a wire tray and allow to cool completely before serving. Tastes even better if left overnight for the flavours to develop. Oat cream goes very nicely with it too.

Wishing you joy and the best of health always.

Mary Remaining 2020 grocery final order dates: 10th Dec/14th Jan Next body care final order date: 11th March * 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

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In This Bleak Mid-Winter In this bleak midwinter Where there is so much gloom, Have we each within us Our own “stable room?”

Somewhere calm and peaceful, Somewhere to feel joy, To celebrate the season Of God’s own baby boy.

Many feel abandoned Lonely and depressed, With life so topsy turvy It’s hard to feel you’re blessed.

But at this time of Christmas Accept it if you can, That someone holds you near them It is the Son of Man. And as we face the New Year Who knows what it will bring?

Listen to the Christmas bells The message that they bring, Hope and expectation To all who live on Earth, So cherish one another, And know each other’s worth.

And if we help each other, Look out for one and all, We’ll welcome baby Jesus When He comes to call.

His is the gentle, helping hand Ignore Him if you must But when you need a steadfast friend, Hold on to Him and trust.

Stephanie Easton

Residential Care, Sheltered Housing, Day Care & Domiciliary Care

Recruiting Now! Interested? Apply today.

Part time or full time jobs@westheanton.co.uk

1st Torrington Scout Group

T

his term the Scouts have been super busy. We started the term off with some recycling of newspapers, where we made items such as coasters and woven baskets.

We have also been baking and the Scouts made chocolate caramel flapjack, this was good fun and tasted lovely. The Scouts have also created bug hotels - these creations are made from recycling bottles and filling them with foliage from outside, suitable for all types of bugs.

To celebrate Halloween this year we did a virtual camp, this meant we had several Zoom meetings throughout the weekend, completing many activities.

These included Halloween decorations, themed cupcake decorating, pumpkin carving and mummy calzones, as well as much more. Everyone who took part had lots of fun and is looking forward to the next camp at Christmas.

Cubs are still using Zoom as a way of communicating and they had to get their parents involved for the first aid badge. Learning and the practising the recovery position, gave a few giggles and they also used their scarves to practise bandages and slings. Quiz time is always popular with the Cubs, seeing who knows what and who can answer the quickest.

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 Group Scout Leader on email Jordon. whitear@gmail.com.

Fleur's Christmas Quiz Answers 1. The Oak tree 2. The Mountain Ash 3. The Almond 4. Yew, Juniper, Scot’s Pine 5. The Weeping Willow 6. Nasturtium seeds 7. Dianthus 8. Dahlia 9. True, they are very poisonous 10. Penstemon is native to the USA 11. They are all types of Potato 12. True, they are all types of grass 13. They are members of the Allium Genus 14. Club root affects Brassicas of all kinds, including wallflowers and stocks 15. Scarlet red on the top, black underneath 16. Hidcote 17. Ilex (holly) 18. Marwood Hill holds a wonderful collection of this moisture loving perennial 19. Cape Primrose 20. The Wollemi Pine (and the area where they are found apparently survived the recent devastating fires).

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BESPOKE PICTURE FRAMERS BLENDING CONTEMPORARY STYLES WITH TRADITIONAL FRAMING METHODS

CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE OR VISIT US AT OUR WORKSHOP STIBB HOLLOW FARM, LANGTREE, TORRINGTON, EX38 8LP TEL: 01805 601777 Or message us @Facebook: BlackDogFraming • Instagram #BlackDogFraming

Adam Woodhouse Windows Ltd trading as

AW Windows

Windows - Doors - Conservatories - Cladding Fascias, Soffits & Gutterings All aspects uPVC, wood, aluminium & glass

07968 472972 • 01769 560655

aw.windows@hotmail.co.uk • www.adamwoodhousewindows.co.uk Country Landscaping is a family company covering Torrington and all of the North Devon area. We specialise in hard & soft landscaping with an emphasis towards more natural design including paving, stonework, turfing, planting schemes and natural ponds.

Patios, Pathways, Raised Beds, Low Maintenance Gardens, Fencing.

“Thank you to all our valued customers past & present for their valued custom & support” Visit: www.countrylandscaping.co.uk Tel: 01237 452361 Mobile: 07932 457 921

Five and ten-week po�ery courses are back up and running - ask if you’d like to sign up.

Studio po�ery experiences are available all year round for all ages.

Our exciting range of clay projects and pottery painting take home kits have been super popular over summer - great for a party, family activity or something to do on a rainy day.

Visit the studio to choose or order online via the website Takeout Kit page.

Instructions and tools included – simply return to us for firing.

From £10 for po�ery pain�ng kits – £18 for a clay project make and paint kit – discount for par�es

Visit: tarkapo�ery.co.uk or call/text 07931 306 414 36