Torrington Crier December & January 2018/19

FREE December& January 2018/2019 The Crier is produced for the community, supported by advertisers, Great Torrington Town Council, and the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity.

5900 copies are distributed throughout Great Torrington and the rural district, with a readership of 14,750

Great Torrington at Christmas GREAT TORRINGTON’S GRINCH-MAS FAYRE Saturday 1st December 1pm onwards Christmas Lights Switch On at 6pm see inside for details!

CHRISTMAS CAPER RUN Sunday 23rd December Torrington Rugby Club 11am

CAVALIERS’ NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS Sunday 31st December 7pm ‘til late

MORE CHRISTMAS EVENTS INSIDE!

CAVALIERS’ CHRISTMAS GROTTO & GIVEAWAY Saturday 22nd December 10am-1pm THE BIG SING Wednesday 12th December Pannier Market 7pm

FREE CHRISTMAS PARKING IN GREAT TORRINGTON!

Sydney House Car Park 1st, 8th, 15th , 22nd & 24th December Barley Grove Car Park Free Parking on 1st December ONLY I am a very competent engineer for both oil & solid fuel and I am fully insured.

I always leave your home clean and with a certificate when the job is done - why not give me a call to book an appointment!

Tel 07500 861 862 1

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Dog Training Classes at Taddiport Village Hall

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

wives shop to their hea Community Information The the Centre is avail Merry Christmas from Centre

meetings, after 4pm, (opposite SydneyCrier HouseTeam!

Car Park, evenings on most day next to 'Panamart') We would like to thankoccasional everyone Saturdays We are delightedwho to supports announce thethat Crier; contributors, or training days. Plea the 'Esteem' group - to support those advertisers, volunteers, the Town email: kizangell@btcon suffering with mental health difficulties, Council and readers. depression, fatigue, pain or anxiety Without you all the CrierCharity wouldn’t Xmas Ca has been awarded grants from the be the community publication that for we good ca Cards Rural Devon Trust (through the Devon ... strive for it to be.

Trade gifts will be on s Community Foundation) and from Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 We hope you have a wonderful church Bideford from 2 Awards For All. E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Christmas, Happy New Year for Monday 7th December, We can now buy laptops, and enabling Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon.

2019!

4pm, Saturday 10amthe group to use the internet in order to We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten charities to select your The Crier Team. help them become an integrated and articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, an interesting selectio accepted part of our community.

They particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this Disclaimer: parts of the world will be able to engageThe a support prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication.

Crier doesworker not warrantmany or assume to assist with form-filling, a Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 any legal producing liability or responsibility for the CV, searching for quality, education courses E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com accuracy, legality or reliability ofDolton any Car Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. andLarge will be able information, to search product for local or serviceFlaming represented torches, dr advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue. 10% discount for avoluntary run of five or paid work. group hasor on and withinThe our publication our web site. The will give fireworks adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to drop-in be paid days in three information times a week, (see provided is for informational, village a bla advance, please. diary) which include a 'listening ear', educational or entertainment purposes only. next month.

Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA.someone from the community is Anyone usingwho the information provided by Dolton’s an Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk. happy to sit and chat, for those feeling The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by which dates b Town Distribution: Dy Darch; Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the and low. lonely using such information agrees to indemnify times, will be community The Centre alsoTheoffers freeanylegal Crier from and all liability, loss, injury, Night, S Printers: Toptown, Barnstaple advice, and tenancy and debt damages, costsadvice, and expenses (including November, legal w expenses)Rev. arising from such use. by appointment, fees (seeanddiary). festivities an Thein Crier not endorseinterest or recommend Graham Slingo comes fordoes a coffee Thanks to Jenny Hearn this year. any product, or information foundRalph Gent, and chat, and we have startedservice a book he Crier Team would like to express their grateful thanks to Jenny Hearn, Farmer within said articles.

The views and opinions club of forthe young people (read a book as she stands down after many years contributing to the success figures behind the Dow the authors who have submitted articles over a week or of fortnight Crier. and dog show in Jun to Thechat Crier belong to them alone and do not finale i thenof come in and the spectacular Jenny has been delivering Criers door-to-door in her local community necessarily of The Crier or its about over a drink and reflect the views worth of fireworks will l Frithelstock for many years - this edition is her last run - but a previous roleitalso team.after cakes) on Thursdays sky. saw her typing up handwritten submissions (once the mainstay of the Crier) for the or its website s c h o o l / c o l l e g e . WebOsite n links from The CrierThe Pipe & Drum fast turnaround from ‘copy date to layout to printing’. are provided for convenienceBand only. The Crier is Saturdays, gents can sit and Torrington A The Crier has always been reliant on the support of many - with big and small not responsible for the content or availability and read with a coffee, or will all be taking par contributions adding to the sum of the whole. any external or 3rd party sites and does buy books from ourof charity through the not village, a So many thanks Jenny and best wishes for a smooth move. warrant or while guarantee services, bookshop 'Book Relief UK', theirthe products, brightly-lit floats, inclu The Crier Team

Contact us

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or information found on these sites.

Local Independent Florist

R.PITTS

Weddings • Funerals Giſt bouquets Ar�angements

“BUILDING & RENO www.yourgardencare.com l l l l l l

Please call Melissa Baker on 07846 857 933 36 Bur�ood Road, Tor�ing�on, Devon EX38 7NE. 16

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

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From Your Mayor...

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e recently had a very in-depth meeting with 1610, the company which manages our swimming pool here in Great Torrington. There have been many concerns and complaints from the public about aspects of the management and maintenance of the pool. The results of this meeting were to ensure that these concerns and complaints were addressed. We will continue to monitor the situation carefully.

We also had a meeting with Devon County Council to discuss signage in our town; some signs are too cluttered and fail to point people into the centre. Our Council, together with the Futures Group (a working group of the Council) and Devon County Council hope to resolve this in the very near future.

We met with Jon Olivero, the lead for the Youth Genesis group who are training local people as volunteer youth workers here in our town and our discussion centred on grant funding and the running of this project. It was great to hear that several people have begun their youth training, and hopefully we will at some time in the future have a dedicated Youth Worker once again.

HRH Duke of Gloucester visited Beran Instruments at Hatchmoor, to officially

open an extension to the building and was shown around the factory. He seemed very interested in the projects being done. Well done to this company, who continue their apprenticeship scheme with usually ‘home grown’ employees.

The ‘Big Bang’ event at Great Torrington School couldn’t fail to excite and draw interest into science and technology. Forensic science was a particular draw, with maggots on display.

It was both an honour and privilege for Cllr Margaret Brown and myself to be invited to the Devon Poppy Appeal Launch by The Hon Sarah Lopes, the President of the Royal British Legion, Devon. This was held for the first time in Great Torrington in the grounds of RHS Rosemoor, which was quite fitting for such an occasion.

On my behalf, the Council’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Miss Keeley Allin, represented the town at Civic Services in Lynton and Lynmouth and Barnstaple in October, to welcome the new Mayors of these towns into office.

On Thursday 11th October I visited the Castle Nursing Home to congratulate a delightful lady, Dulcie Pope, who was celebrating her birthday of 100 years young. I gave Dulcie a birthday card and a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the Town Council. She was really delighted with these and chatted about her experiences during World War II when she worked for the Fire Service. She had some really hair-raising moments during

that time.

Finally, on Sunday 4th November I held a very successful Christmas Fair at Torrington Cycle Hire to raise funds for the Mayor’s Appeal. My thanks go to everyone who donated items to be sold, to the volunteers who helped man the stalls and to everyone who came to support us during the day. Just over £1000 was raised which will be donated to my two chosen charities: North Devon Hospice and the Memory Café in Torrington.

Christmas will soon be upon us, so I should like to finish by wishing you and your family warm wishes for the festive season.

Cllr. Di Davey, Mayor, Great Torrington

Thanks from the Mayor

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any thanks to Darren the manager of M&S Food Torrington, for the splendid donations of coffee, tea bags and mince pies to the Mayor’s Charity Christmas Fair, which was held on Sunday 4th November at Torrington Cycle Hire behind the Puffing Billy. Many thanks also to Pam, Manager of the Cooperative store here in Torrington, for the super donations of their mince pies and milk.

The total raised was £1015.89 for the North Devon Hospice and the Torrington Memory Café.

Di Davey, Mayor, Great Torrington

Castle Hill Opening Hours Library Book Renewals

01805 622107 0345 155 1001

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

Café & Garden @ 1646

01805 626146

Open Mon – Sat 9am-4pm

Tourist Information

01805 626140

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

Torrington Town Council

01805 626135

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

Citizens’ Advice Bureau Torrington

03 444 111 444

Tues 9.30am-12.30pm drop in

Community Development Trust

01805 626100

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Genesis/Pannier Market Admin

01805 626110

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Heritage Museum & Archive

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Contact Sue Scrutton 01805 622391 or Val Morris 01805 622306

6-7.15pm

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

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL Park for Free this Christmas!

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orridge District Council has confirmed that the ‘Small Businesses Free Parking Day’ across ALL Torridge District Council car parks will be on Saturday 1st December 2018.

Great Torrington Town Council Members unanimously agreed to cover the cost of free parking at Sydney House Car Park on the following Saturdays in December: 8th, 15th and 22nd December 2018 between the hours of 8am and 12pm.

Additionally, the Council agreed to have its second allocated free parking day in Sydney House Car Park only, on Monday 24th December 2018.

Christmas Opening Times

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lease note that the Town Council offices will be closed from Thursday 20th December 2018 at 1pm until Wednesday 2nd January 2019 at 9am.

In case of emergency, please telephone the Mayor on 01805 624694, or Torridge District Council on 01237 428700.

Karen Chapman (Town Clerk)

Great Torrington Neighbourhood Plan

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fter years of hard work, Great Torrington Town Council is very pleased to announce that their Neighbourhood Plan has now been formally submitted to Torridge District Council (TDC). Great Torrington is the first in Torridge to reach this stage of the process. TDC will now take the lead on taking the documents forward to independent examination, followed by a local referendum. All documents can be viewed on the Neighbourhood Plan website: www.greattorrington-neighbourhood-plan.org. Can we take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in the process to date, and also encourage people to take a look at the documents and come out to vote at the referendum stage.

Cllr Mrs Gill Clayton

An Evening of Music & Dancing For The Mayor’s Appeal

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oin us for a fantastic evening to raise funds for the Mayor’s Appeal, with the fantastic ‘Ronnie Del Rio’ at The Torrington Arms on January 19th 2019 from 8pm until late.

Admission £5 to include light refreshments and all profits to the North Devon Hospice and The Torrington Memory Café.

Draw prizes are welcome. Phone Mayor Di Davey on 01805 624694 or Dick on 07592 587 925 to book tickets.

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity Christmas Distribution of Vouchers

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ualifying residents are entitled to receive vouchers to be spent within the town.

To qualify you must be living within the Great Torrington Parish boundary (and shown on the Electoral Roll for not less than one year before the date of the distribution) and be in receipt of any of the following benefits:State Retirement Pension Attendance Allowance Constant Attendance Allowance Disability Living Allowance Employment and Support Allowance Incapacity Benefit Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit Please Note:Only ONE claim per Household If you are claiming on behalf of a relative/friend, you MUST bring a letter of authorisation signed by the recipient Suitable evidence of entitlement to these benefits MUST be presented on the day Distribution will take place at The Plough, Fore Street, Torrington, on Friday 14th December 2018, between 9.30am – 2pm.

No applications will be considered before or after the above hours.

I M Newman – Steward to The Trustees Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity

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could be as simple as a£1.blue the season, mayYour well be £2(this per child – under 1s £1 – siblings 3th From District Councillors…

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mushroom upside down Jackson number, and ewith timeGeoffrey of the walk. includes crate healthyturned snack & drink for Cox he MP. Local Price Mirror’ a Michael with a 10cm x 10cm hole cut in one of at Annery the children & hot drink for adults nt the ring walk 01237is459001 or Plan was the second was ‘Summertime’ by Etta Leach 01769 685. the short sides and560 a weight on top) Weare Giffard road ey@geoffreycox or via by Rebecca adopted by James. Gracie now goes forward to which should stop any local cats idge, at 2.30pm on ffreycox.co.uk rd both Torridge 18th ay. distance is little Thursday n aidThe of Wembworthy enjoying a free meal. the Cat District biscuitsfinals (not on Saturday 23 of and North Devon February 2019 at Fowey Parish Church.

Michael's leigh Town Hall to 9-11am ut with plenty look at Stfish flavour)Church are anSaid idealMass food to put in Councils invitation to Rosemoor for the draw prizes appreciated in St James ss is likely to on takeMonday a 10.30am the feeding stationChapel but An please never 29thA@ October, with Launch on the 26th October, CofCeremony War @ The hours. donation of Music breadGaga: and Rock milk Anthems as it Poppy can8pm make them see article) Plough weeks seriously ill. supporting our Mayor Di Davey was to the a further Rolle six Canal ance details for consultation a thought provoking and emotional ety's 2-4.30pm funds will beand If you find a hedgehog out during the 648 or Beryl 01805 19th and unsteady eciated and helps Friday day, wobbling you’re challenge. time. A or piper was part of the event and Stworried Michael's Church Saidthat Massvisits 8.30am ble the Society keep has about one your A new to solicitor photographs can be found on the Town ctations' 7.30pm @ in St James Chapel eer work going toat Torridge garden,her place theishedgehog in website. a high been appointed name Council’s Cinema 'Zion box Train'with 8pm @ Plough and maintain features of Gig sided a The hotThe water Staci Dori, so welcome Staci. newsbottle of the Appledore Shipyard yes & Simpson 8pm @ al. Future walks this year wrapped in a towel and cover with the I was pleased to closure has come th th Saturday 20th une, 28be July and cloth that you used to pick it up with invited to 18 the Music as a shock to “The news of the Appledore Shipyard Bob Fox 8pm @ The Plough urther details if required: then please ring any of the following h Big Bang at GTS to closure has come as a shock to the the community, c@ymail.com or phone who will be more than willing to give odist Church meet 10.30am local industrySunday with so many 21st community, with so many skills to be , but you'llMrs probably have advice or take to one of the local vets. on 6.30pm Vivienne St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Mass offering advice weHedgehog all prayPreservation that a solution will skills to be lost, sage. lost, British Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room on careers, and ChrisMass Hassall be foundMethodist and many will10.30 be working we all pray that Society 01584 890801 urch 10am Sung Torrington Church also for children a solution will be Club in upper room  North Devon Hedgehog hard to resolve this Rescue devastating Rev Ken Morgan 5pm Circuit Service @ to have the found and many ns' 3pm & 7pm @ gs (15) Need You!!!!!!

01271 816989 or 07964 522 359 difficult time...”

Parkham opportunity to have will be working AnniRamblers Nicholls afternoon walk wareness Week is on its Torridge at to some small01237 451820 hard to resolve wait untila go then Torridge Hedgehog Rescue projects, having fun whilst this devastatingly difficult time, for all th Film 'Les Miserables' (12A) 3pm @ The ing is engineering here (working with ND Hedgehog 7.30-8.30pm @ High learning.

Eighteen Plough schoolsRescue) from ourAngela Hodge those who fear for their future livelihood. the weather unity Film it a Year' (15) @ Thefor our play areas’ area attended during the'I Give day, to find Support spikyCentre friends 07884 486 509 7pm ceabout Session for under 5's Plough out about possible apprenticeships and out regeneration again.

Please look for eventsisinongoing, well done Bickingtontough xtremely theCommunity grades needed to secure themarea in on theHedgehog fundraising to date. I have your during Monday 22nd them. the The May.to each of them from my Awareness Week donated 5th to 11th£250 future. Our local fire officers allowed Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5's nd wet weather the trying on of uniform, and it was Community Grant, congratulations on th 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington fficult forinteresting many of that only of them the amounts raised so far.

Pets As5% Therapy ' Social group for theto hear Community Centre od or hibernate properly are women, more are needed so ifMcGowan you is a8pm I look@forward to joining you all for Pets As Therapy Every 3rd Tues 2pm @ Comedy Alistair The months so are now national charity founded livemany within five minutes of the fire station the Big Sing on the 12th December tre call 01271 373236 Plough dBickington help. If you know that in 1983.

It them isPete unique youCommunity will be most welcome to join inCanter ininthe Pannier Market, and take this Gallery Gig The Trio sident in your 5-7pmhedgehog that it @ provides therapeutic The Plough their valuable work.8.18pm opportunity to wish you all a Merry please don’t forget to put 7pm Juniors 8pm pleasant visitswas to the hospitals, A most event Rotary hospices, Christmasnursing and a heathy Happy New r and some food out for Tuesday on Community Centre and care homes, Year. special needs 23rd Young Musician of the Year at GTS, You can contact me on 01805 tompetition inside a feeding station @ Torrington schools a variety of@High other venues Cluband for 11+ 5-7pm624375. on 17th October; theYouth successful young Bickington Community Centre entrant old vocalist Gracie Margaret Brown, (15) 7pm @ Thewas 12 year Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm Her first song was ‘Man in the Town & District Councillor start forAvery. long film Adults @ High Bickington Community

s17th

Centre

urch Said Mass 8.30am Wednesday 24th pel St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am High Bickington in St James Chapel e 4.30-5.30pmProviding for 5+ quality but Short Tennis @ Highaffordable Bickington gion 3rd Weds of every Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+ accountancy and taxation services.

T Conservative Club Film 'Fire in the Blood' (PG) 8pm @ The The Plough Plough rns, fun, friendly group www.pgdaccountants.com dren aged 0-5 25th Tel: 01271 Thursday 268082 Mob: 07810 448 618 Atherington Pavilion St Michael's Church Said Mass y term time.

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Rotary Club Update

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he street collection held in the Square in aid of The Indonesia Earthquake raised £525; this will be divided between Shelter Box, who are now working in the area, and Team Rubicon who are first responders.

Please check out their websites.

At GTS the Rotary Young Chef and Young Musician competitions have been held and the winners are Young Musician Gracie Avery, and Young Chefs Lauren Parker and Leah Thorne.

This month at our Club meetings we have enjoyed two excellent speakers: Richard Haste, Torridge District Council’s Head of Recycling and Alistair Miller, Past President of The British Dental Association who spoke on the future of dental health.

We also enjoyed an afternoon at the Bideford Target Shooting Club’s new ‘state of the art’ shooting range at Melbury near Parkham. We had guided tour and then tried out air pistol and bench rest air rifle shooting. Ali Burgess scored an amazing 93/100, having never held a rifle before! It was a great afternoon out and I can recommend it.

Rick Smale

From Your County Councillor…

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hope that by the a meeting recently between Torrington Officers will be working on their budget time you read Town Council, the Torrington Futures proposals ahead of the Budget Setting this article the Group and Devon County Council’s meetings in February. At the time of long closure of the Senior Traffic Officer to discuss writing it is too early to say what specific A3124 will be over. reviewing the existing highways signage proposals are likely to be in the Budget, Writing this article in the town. although Highways, Children’s Services in early November Many of the town’s signs are and Adult Services will remain the there is always a unfortunately in need of being updated priority. Nonetheless I think it is worth danger that what or replaced entirely. A particular priority saying that Devon County Council’s I have written will is to make sure the signs directing overall financial situation is generally be overtaken by visitors to the Town Centre are more good, and the Council is certainly events, but at the time of writing the prominent and less cluttered, in an effort in a far stronger position than our Contractor had made sufficient progress to encourage more visitors into the town. neighbours in Somerset or further afield for the road to be re-opened ahead of By using the County Council’s sign in Northamptonshire. schedule, without the need for traffic maintenance budget, we are hoping to However, given the financial lights. straightjacket local government “By using the County Council’s sign I visited the site on 5th November has had to operate in for the to review the works with the County maintenance budget, we are hoping to be able last decade, the long term to redesign the Town Centre directional signs, financial picture for many Engineer supervising the project. as well as updating and/or replacing other councils remains uncertain. While I was pleased to see the good signs within the town where it is appropriate Central Government has made progress that had been made, to do so. This work will be done by looking with nearly all of the retaining encouraging noises indicating at the town as a whole so that we have a wall completed and new drainage that they will review the funding features installed that will prevent strategic approach rather than approaching it formula for local councils in on an ad-hoc basis. ” water from pooling on the road 2019/20 – rebalancing funding surface by the wall. away from urban metropolitan Whilst it has obviously been an be able to redesign the Town Centre boroughs and taking into account the extremely inconvenient closure I would directional signs, as well as updating rurality of Councils like Devon – we are like to thank everybody – residents, and/or replacing other signs within still having to wait for the Government to businesses, Town and Parish Councils the town where it is appropriate to do come up with their proposals.

– for their patience and forbearance so. This work will be done by looking As this will be the last edition before while this important work took place. It at the town as a whole so that we Christmas, may I take the opportunity is never ideal to keep a main road shut have a strategic approach rather than to wish all readers of The Crier a very for so long, but I cannot stress enough approaching it on an ad-hoc basis. Both Happy Christmas and a peaceful and that these works were essential to the Town Council and the Futures Group prosperous New Year. It is an honour ensure we did not have a collapse in the will be consulted throughout, so I am to serve you on the County Council carriageway and then months – if not hopeful that this joined up approach will and if there are any issues you would years – of closure. ensure we get a strategic solution that like to discuss with me you can ring me On another Highways related topic, I all parties are satisfied with. on 07886 446 560 or email andrew. was pleased to be able to help organise As we head into Christmas, Council saywell@devon.gov.uk.

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what’s on this

Christmas!

Cavaliers’ Christmas Grotto and Giveaway 2018

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veryone is invited to the

St Michael’s Christmas Fair Saturday 1st December

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o come along and join us for our Christmas Fair in the Parish Church! You will be able to visit Father Christmas in the Grotto, find gifts on the craft stalls, and take part in the tombola and hamper raffle.

There will also be cakes and refreshments available and everyone is welcome!

Everyone Welcome to The Big Sing!

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his hugely popular and lively event is a well-established feature of our Town’s run-up to Christmas. It is a unifying and heart-warming occasion for people of all ages and backgrounds on the threshold of the festive season.

The Town Council, members of the Churches, Bluecoat School, Cavaliers and Torrington Silver Band have planned the evening for everyone’s enjoyment, on 12th December in the Pannier Market, 7pm.

Come and join in your favourite carols, listen to Christmas readings, popular favourites from the band, along with a short presentation of the Christmas message and Nativity Story. Local school children eagerly awaiting Christmas will be singing for us. Everyone is warmly invited to come along and join in.

Revd. Peter Bevan, Vicar

Cavaliers’ traditional Christmas grotto and giveaway in the new Town Hall Undercroft on Saturday 22nd December from 10am -1pm.

As usual the grotto theme is a secret so come along and see what it is.

There will be treats galore including goody bags for the children, mulled cider for the adults, mince pies and roast chestnuts for everyone. I am sure Father Christmas will find time to make an appearance.

The event is totally free, so please find time to come along, give the kids a treat, have a chat and get into the festive spirit.

Steve Young, Cavaliers

Free Parking in Great Torrington!

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here will be free parking in ALL Torridge car parks on Saturday 1st December, for ‘Small Business Day’.

Sydney House Car Park will have free parking from 8am-12pm (afternoons are already free) on 8th, 15thand 22nd and 24th December.

Plough Christmas Craft Fair

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irmly established as one of North Devon’s most popular contemporary and traditional crafts events, the Original Gifts Exhibition at the Plough once again kicks off the festive season in style. Over 40 stalls by local artists and makers will provide a fantastic selection of textiles; from quilting and felting to knitwear; furniture, woodwork and driftwood; paper and book crafts; jewellery, glass, ceramics, basketry, ironwork, copperwork, leatherwork, candles, paintings and many other festive goodies including a great range of cards, decorations and fair trade gifts. The Craft Fair runs from Thursday 29th November to Sunday 23rd December. Open Tuesday Saturday 10am - 8pm; Monday 10am – 2pm and Sunday 2 – 6pm.

Downstairs there is the ‘Nature in Poetry’ exhibition of original art work and linocut prints, inspired by a varied selection of poems that celebrate the beauty and fragility of nature.

From classic poems many will be familiar with, to lesser known new poems inspired by this exhibition. Organised by Proseprints and raising money for local literacy projects.

Cavaliers’ New Year’s Eve Disco in the Square

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lease join us in the Square on New Year’s Eve to welcome in 2019, with lots of music and dancing.

As in past years the Cavaliers will be staging the traditional New Year’s Eve disco in the Square from 8am to past midnight.

Free music all night, party poppers and other bits and pieces at midnight to see the New Year in with a bang. We hope you can join us.

Steve Young, Cavaliers

Great Torrington School Christmas Concert

The Plough, Wednesday 19th December, 7pm arents, pupils and friends are invited to a celebration of musical talent featuring the school choir ‘Dynamic Melody’; a taster from the school musical for 2019, ‘School of Rock’, plus a host of soloists who are preparing for the evening. Please join us for some seasonal cheer and celebration of the hard work of our pupils.

Tickets £3 per person available online via Parentmail or alternatively call the GTS Box office 01805 623531.

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Christmas Caper!

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AAC invites you to take part in ‘The Christmas Caper 2018’ to be held on Sunday, 23rd December 2018. Nine miles of mud, forest trails, rivers and hills – one of the most challenging multi-terrain runs in the South West and previously voted Devon Race of the Year!

The run starts and finishes at Torrington Rugby Club, Donnacroft Fields at 11am. To enter, please see the entry form for postal entries on our Facebook page ‘Torrington Christmas Caper 2018’ or find out more at: www. torringtonaac.org. Alternatively register on the day from 9.30am. Please note all entrants need to be over 16 years of age.

Torrington Silver Band Christmas Concert Saturday 15th December

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veryone is welcome to our Christmas Concert at Howe Concert Hall on Saturday 15th December, doors open 7pm for a 7.30pm start. £5 entry on the door and under 16’s free.

There will be refreshments and a raffle during the interval.

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Winter & Christmas at RHS Rosemoor!

Magical Garden Illuminations ‘Glow’ Follow the fabulous illuminations along a new route and extended to The Lake for the first time. Based in and around Rosemoor’s Foliage Garden and Stream Field and down to the Lake, come and enjoy the magical illumination of the garden in the depths of winter. Hi-tech colourchanging lights illuminate the trees, shrubs and sculptures and the Garden Kitchen restaurant will be open late with a special family friendly hot pre-booked ‘Simple Suppers’ menu.

Last entry to the Garden and Gift Shop, plus last Simple Supper sitting all at 7pm.

Normal garden admission includes entry to Glow.

Winter Sculpture Exhibition Every day, 10am - 5pm until 24th February 2019 Set against the backdrop of Rosemoor in winter, the annual Sculpture Exhibition will be on display throughout the garden as well as inside.

Included this year is the poignant soldier and poppy display commemorating the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. The Centenary Display of an ‘Unknown Soldier’ by George Hider and ceramic poppies designed by local artist Renée Kilburn. Poppies are available to buy for £28 each with £3.50 from every poppy sold going to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Most of the pieces are for sale or can be made on commission. Free guided sculpture walks leaving the Visitor Centre every Wednesday at 2pm (weather permitting – please call 01805 626800 on the morning to check). Normal garden admission.

Christmas Food & Craft Fair 15 &16 December 12 - 6pm on Saturday and 10am - 4pm on Sunday Normal garden admission - Garden Room.

Father Christmas & his Elves Family Experience 21st-24th December This year, before he heads out on his sleigh, Father Christmas will be at RHS Garden Rosemoor to for a festive story telling session in his magical workshop theatre. He will be joined by his Elves and Jack Frost too, as they help the children to write a letter to Santa and prepare some magical reindeer food ready for Christmas Eve. Your family will learn Santa’s favourite song and of course each family will get the chance to meet the big man himself. Be sure to bring your camera so that you capture a memory forever.

Tanya’s Holistic Beauty & Nails Studio

www.tanyasbeautystudio.co.uk tanyasbeautystudio@yahoo.co.uk 01805 625400 12 Cornmarket St, Torrington, EX38 8EY

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The Appledore Singers Charity Christmas Concert in aid of ‘Families In Grief’

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he Appledore Singers’ Charity Christmas Concert will take place on Sunday 16th December, 2.30pm at Northam Hall (top of Fore Street).

This year’s concert will be in aid of ‘Families in Grief’, a local charity that supports children, young people and their families who have experienced the death of someone close to them.

The Choir will delight the audience with arrangements of festive music – both traditional and modern - and, as always, there will be the opportunity for audience participation! The afternoon’s entertainment will also include our popular Grand Raffle’. The choir, accompanied by Chris Beechey, will be conducted by our Musical Director, Pam Beechey.

Admission is £6 at the door (under 16s free), to include light refreshments.

For further information contact Pam Beechey 01237 420652 ‘Seek a Smile thro’ Song’

Tarka Pottery

Pottery classes, potter’s wheel, family activities, pottery painting, children’s & hen parties, holiday club, hand & foot prints, experience vouchers Little Torrington Tel: 07931 306 414 www.tarkapottery.co.uk email: info@tarkapottery.co.uk

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

through the village, a brightly-lit floats, inclu

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“BUILDING & RENO www.yourgardencare.com

The Winkleigh Singers Christmas Concert

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

he Winkleigh Singers Traditional Christmas Concert is in even earlier to the Roman being held on Saturday 15th December 2018,millions 7.30pmtimes: earned of dollars in royalties Enrico Caruso festival of Flora, goddess of fruit and at All Saints Parish Church Winkleigh.

Thethe choir are sales of the resulting from retail (25th February Year 10 1873 have –been flowers.

This tradition, symbolizing rebirth performing nd Vivaldi’s ‘Gloria’ plus there will be plenty of carols, 78rpm discs. In Italy in 1902-1903, he is particularly relevant to us today, asked to write August 1921)a permany with2audience participation.

Tickets are from of records for the cutavailable five batches breathing new life into the winter of our suasive a door.

Part choir2members, via thereview websiteabout or at the Under 16s G r a m o p h o e and Typewriter community. nare What a great there are for no fair shame or festival Company.

He was laterwith heard from free.

Moreover, in keeping thelive spirit of digital mastered recordingsassessment. of Caruso. their GCSE English the stage ofchildren the Metropolitan Opera We are recruiting for new members, particularly tenors and rejuvenation, are the focal point One cannot imagine how wonderful his Here is Charlotte’s timely reminder House in theMuch first public radio basses.

This is to allow the flexibility to tackle more multipart of the festivities. against Mr Gove’s voice was. of one such fair we should treasure. broadcast in 1920. better wishes, Torrington’s schools are and adventurous repertoires.

Prospective members are Caruso’s 25-year career, stretching In theon next issue you about closed toMonday allow I will full tell community invited1895 to jointous for a trialincluded period at 863 our rehearsals from 1920, some of hisabout operatic What roles. could be more Sending Out a MaydayDo ask any of ourparticipation. evenings in Umberleigh. members appearances at the New York Until then good listening appealing than watching the crowning of us atOur the Carol Concert or get touchofvia the website www.

For Spring Fair Metropolitan Opera before heindied the May Queen? The procession of boys Bob Dymond winkleighsingers.org.uk.

Can we allow Torrington’s to an infection at the age of 48.tradition His fame and girls in brightly coloured costumes dwindle? has lasted to the present day, despite would melt any heart. Ribbons rippling, Torrington W.I. What picture comes and into promotional your mind Exmoor Carolers Concerts the limited marketing skirts skipping and the band blasting: the when you think of Torrington’s May Fair?

Our Annual Meeting take place ehearsals are in full swing and include many pluswill avenues available to him. He was, maypole is favourites, ceremoniously woven. th For many one it is or thea image the November.

We are will onJust Wednesday 9 two newofCarols.

This year the Carolers charity will be nonetheless, client of maypole, Edward as the colours on the maypole laughter The and North sunshine; it would Last be beFair electing new we presented cheque for Bernays during the Devon latter’sHospice. tenure as a year intertwined, so thea May breaksadown difficult to imagine Torrington without it.

President and barriers press in the USA. in from donationssocial £2500agent to Children’s HospicePublicity South West and CD sales.as it appeals Yet today, our historic thtradition is committee for the to everyone.

Choirs, dance Caruso’s time relied newspapers, Localthreat. dates: 9to December - Clovelly All Saints Church 3pm. under ItSunday is easy on allow following year, groups and majorettes all particularly wire services, magazines, Mulled wine and mincelife pies, the pressures of modern to guest appearance from Clovelly Donkeys!! taking a look back take to the stage: a feast for photography and the telephone.

Ticketsstrangle £5 in advance from Maynard Johns, 37 Mill Street Bideford or Pillowery slowly our cultural all ears. we Local have the eyesat and Caruso’s biographers, Park B&B 431688 online Key, at www.eventbrite.co.uk. heritage.

In 01237 this fast age or ofPierre dignitaries are happily experienced in the last year and then nd Bruno Zirato and Stanley Jackson high-tech gadgetry, mass Saturday 22 December – Chittlehampton St Hieritha’spelted Churchin7.30pm.

Tickets the of stocks and getting a sneak preview speakers attribute his fame not only to his voice media and £6 to include seasonalinstant refreshments and available inforadvance from 01769 540581. subjected to duckings.

The booked 2012.

Cups and prizes will and musicianship, but to a keen gratification, there is wine, little also time Raffle and interval proceeds to be shared betweenMayor Church fund and to hasfabric awho lavish lunch, be awarded for those did best in business sense andmatters: an embrace of left for what really Amigos. which many are invited. The our optional monthly competitions, and community Today, more commerciallife. sound recordings, then in town crier bellows as tea he Sunday 23rd December - The Plough Torrington £8 tobe include there 3pm. will, Tickets of course, time mulled for than ever, it Many is essential to its infancy. well-known opera proudly marches the streets wineour andhistoric mince pie, from Thealive.

Plough, online at a www.ploughartscentre.co.uk or call and natter. keep celebration Our singers of Caruso’s time rejected the of Being his predecessors The Torrington 01805 624624. rather nifty and at getting through week of annual festivity andfosters phonograph (gramophone) their Silver Band pulsates like the beating the business side of things, we will also friendship, a sense of belonging andbut a voices have been lost as a result, heart of the community. link withsingers ourChristmas past.including We cannot let this die. manage a bit of time to welcome Bob Family Fair & Grotto other Adelina Patti, The grand finale of the May Fair week As you walk the cobbled streets of our Brewer, whoChristmas will us the he Northam Care Trust will be hosting its annual Fair and Grotto Francesco Tamagno and Nellie Melba is the carnival, a give spectacle of low-down light and ancient town, breathe antiquity.from The 10.30am on the Cavaliers. on Saturday 8thtechnology December 2pm at our Rose Hill Activity exploited theyounew once sound. Fanciful floats journey through the May Fair links on present-day Torrington We whilst start at 7pm in are the lined Methodist Centre Heywood Bideford, EX39 3PG. the they became aware of the Road, success of town streets with with the past, transporting us to a bygone Church Hall, and prospective members children.

In grotto; the packed town There will be many festive games to enjoy;cheering Santa will be in his plus stalls to Caruso’s recording sessions. era – when life was simpler. are veryyou welcome visit for Any square, have notochoice but free. to mingle Caruso made more that 260 extant browse and Christmas crafts and gifts to purchase.

Torrington has hosted the annual May new members their subs this and new friends. recordings in 1554.

America for refreshments the Victor Hot since homemade soupHowever, and bemake available topaying warm you through, as Fair many willmonth, get 14 months for priceThe of ‘Uz be plaised tofamily zeethe ee!’

Talking Machine Company, (later RCA well as a bountiful cake stall.

Enter and park for free, and bring the along. celebrations in England have their origins 12.

How about that!

Mayor’s welcome banner in thick Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he

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Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

Christmas Tree Festival

Friday 30th November to Sunday 2nddialect December th Devonian is strung across the November there will be a On the 16 10.30am to 3.30pm square – Torrington is known as a lunch at Barnstaple in aid of ACWW, friendly town and this is no better St Petroc’s Church, the Associated Country Women of the displayed than at the May Fair. In this era Petrockstowe World, of which the WI nationally is a of social isolation, the May Fair provides ollowing the member.

Not widely known, the the medicine ofoffriendship, inclusion and success last ACWW has representatives from many support. The fair encourages community year’s Christmas nationalities; working relief for of life as the young and oldtowards join together Tree Festival firstWhat poverty and (the sickness, promoting health the common good. better way is ever and inadvancing education.

It’s down-tothere toPetrockstowe!) bring neighbours together? we just approach hadcome to do itfrom again and wewide wouldto earth offers mutual support People far and andyou practical to Fair. women and love todelights come help and join us.

As wellalso enjoy the of May They communities across the world. The bring their25money with them! as at least trees (all decorated by fair replenishes coffers of theand townthe – Toorganisations, find outthe about the ACWW and local businesses providing welcome boost to stall, the local Women's athere Institutes nationwide, visit individuals) will be a craft light economy – such help in difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk refreshments and araffles and prizes.

Businesses use about the carnival as W.I. an Any queries Torrington Do come; bring the family and friends. opportunity to advertise their wares. ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on You won’t also be disappointed!

Charities benefit: collection tins are 01805 623588.

On Sunday 2nd December at 11am soon full to overflowing. there a Christingle service.

With Yetwill it isbeoften argued that historic celGreat Torrington all the Christmas trees around the ebrations are archaic and anachronistic.

Town Project church be aHall lovely way forfestivities children On theit will contrary, Torrington’s By102!) thethe time report revitalise old this traditions.

In appears the current (2 to to explore what Christmas isin climate of apathy, laziness and The Crier, you will have noticed all about. indifference, the been May Fair scaffolding has put lifts our spirits and Torrington up totransforms facilitate the repair into a vibrant Buckland Brewer Christmas community.

Despite the continual of the roof and make the development of modern and building water-tight Market Saturday for 1sttechnology December increasing time spent at computer the winter.

It not willonly be are we in the his year, screens, last year’s record-breaking enclosed in waterproof Buckland Brewer Hall but also turnout shows there is the still aworking place forarea live sheeting to protect within theGiven schoolthe next choice door. of entertainment. and to minimise any risk tothere the internal With a huge range of stalls, will in playing a video game or participating fabric.

At thegifts same time, a series of be Christmas for everyone: the buzz of the fair, I know which from I would photoelectric panels Buckland will be installed, delicious homemade Brewerto choose… reduce running-costs, perhaps Today, the ofand aBrewery; large-scale Chocolates tonew the enemy Buckland provide an income for the project by town fascinators event is ‘Health and and Safety’. from to scarves even As sellingcrowds surplus power to thebeNational huge gather, it could argued gifts for your pets. Father Christmas Grid.there is a danger of an accident. that has also arranged to drop in again this Although with this all work being carried Nowadays, theisridiculous year. With mulled wine, mince pies rules and out by the Townlands payment and regulations it is Trust, a struggle to BBQ, why not make this a date for your will be taken from funds set aside organise anything.

In this age for of diary.

Contact Dawnwould 01237 451822. countless litigation, our town hall is in the project, which have included

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Easter Hall Park Stables Petrockstowe

Riding & Carriage Driving Lessons Giant illuminated numbers and- letters for to - Advanced Beginners your birthday party, anniversary or special Qualified staff - Fully licensed celebration. A great backdrop to any party Indoor & Outdoor Arenas and a brilliant photo opportunity!

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

Contact Alice 07881 920 169

Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams www.partyilluminations.com or 810350 01805 622556 Phone 01837

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Grosvenor Church Torrington at Christmas

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his Christmas here at Grosvenor Church Torrington we will be celebrating this very special season in our new home, The Plough. At GCT we enjoy and understand the importance of community, so it’s lovely to be able to meet in the centre of our wonderful town.

At this busy time, with all the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations and expectations, we are very aware that for some this season brings its own challenges. Anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses seem to be on the rise, and are very real for many people in our community here in Great Torrington.

Christmas also seems to magnify grief, loss and loneliness for many. This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we also celebrate that the same peace and joy that the angels spoke about to the shepherds, is still being experienced by so many of those who follow Jesus over 2000 years later.

Through moving our church location to the Plough, I’ve been surprised to see how many people are out and about on a Sunday morning, even with so few shops open. We always have some decent coffee brewing and pastries at the ready for anyone who fancies popping in for a chat. The beauty of the Plough is that it’s easy to go upstairs and slip into the back of one of our services to see what goes on. This Christmas why not pay us a visit? Who knows, you may find exactly

Light Up a Life this Christmas

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ight a candle in memory of your loved ones at our special services that take place across North Devon, including in your own community. These services are open to everyone and you will receive a warm welcome; you do not have to have been supported by either hospice to attend a service.

Please visit our websites www.northdevonhospice.org.uk www.chsw. org.uk for details of all services.

Your local service is being held at: Methodist Church, Torrington on Sunday 16th December 7pm Light Up a Life offers us all the opportunity to honour the memory of loved ones, together with many others who are doing the same thing.

It helps us realise we are not alone in missing someone special at this time of year.

If you cannot attend a Light Up a Life service, but would still like to be part of this season of remembrance, you can take part by giving us the name of your loved one when making a donation online at www.northdevonhospice.org.uk. or when donating by phone on 01271 347232. Your loved one’s name will be written on a star which will hang on our Light Up A Life Christmas tree, and also entered into our books of remembrance which will be displayed at the services across North Devon.

To donate to Children’s Hospice South West, please visit www.chsw.org.uk or call 01271 325270. Your loved one’s name will be written in our Light Up a Life Book of Remembrance, which can be viewed at Little Bridge House Hospice and will be displayed at the Light Up a Life services across North Devon.

By making a donation to North Devon Hospice or Children’s Hospice South West in memory of your loved ones, you will be helping to make a difference to those who need our care both today and into the future. what you have been looking for all this time!

On the 23rd of December at 4:30pm we will be back down at Bluecoats CofE Primary School for our annual Carol Service. We are delighted to announce that as well as celebrating the true meaning of this season, we will joined again by a lovely group of friendly Alpacas (a great camel substitute) and our service will finish with sharing a hog roast together. We hope you can make it!

Merry Christmas from all at Grosvenor Church Torrington

Lizzy’s Larder

You will be sure to receive a warm welcome when you visit Blackberry Farm.

In our tearoom you will find some of Devon’s finest Entry is FREE produce, with beautiful Dartmoor views.

Open 7 days a Our traditional family run farm shop is full of week.

01409 261440 delicious homemade food, local crafts and gifts, and Milton Damerel don’t forget to visit our friendly animals or join us on one of our farm tours.

Nr Holsworthy Visit: www.Blackberryfarmshop.co.uk EX22 7NP

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Dolton & Dowland Christmas Fair

Saturday 1st December, 12-3pm, Dolton & Dowland Village Hall, entry is free! Stalls selling crafts, fudge, toys, Christmas gifts, and more. Father Christmas should be there and the cafe will be selling seasonal home cooked food. The Fair will be a great place for a snack and a chat, so please join us!

Proceeds will go to refurbishing the village hall toilets.

Torrington Library Xmas & New Year News & Events

Children’s events this month: *Craft Club Saturday 15th December - A glitter event! (4-11yrs) 10.30am -12.30pm *Lego Club (5yrs +) Saturdays 10.30am-12.15pm, 8th & 22nd December, 5th &19th January *Spanish Story Time (pre-schoolers) Tuesday 18th December. Hola amigos, join Lucia and enjoy this fun session with fellow parents/carers and children. We look forward to seeing you. *Christmas Friends’ Event Saturday 1st December. Join us, and our very supportive Friends of Torrington Library, as we get into the spirit of the Town’s Grinchmas event. Mince pies, sweets and our own Christmas tree light up. Also ‘The Grinch’ - storytelling of at 11am and 12pm.

Proseprint will be with us running a Christmas card workshop 10.15am-12pm *Boo to a Goose Theatre Present! Friday 7th December 1.30 -2.30pm. Join Mother and Father Christmas in this show for 5 year olds and under. Children £4, one accompanying adult FREE. *Active Life Active Mind 2019 *Chair Yoga - Friday 11th January 2019 2-3pm. Come and experience this gentle activity from the comfort of a sitting position. *Meditation for beginners - Friday 11th January 2019 3.15- 4.15pm. Stay after the yoga session or pop in for this introduction to the benefits of meditation. *Coffee & IT Drop In - Thursday 24th January 10am -1pm. Join Perry our IT volunteer for a drop in session. He will be here to answer any queries you have with your Ipad, tablet (electronic variety), laptop or smart phone. If you need more time you will be able to book in for a FREE one-to-one session at a later date.

Teachers Rock® Great Torrington at Christmas

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n Saturday 15th December, Teachers Rock® will be bringing their contemporary choir to St Michael and All Angels Church in Great Torrington, at 7:30pm. This choir of educators has developed into one of the South West’s leading contemporary choirs and their founder and Musical Director Debbie Kent is excited about bringing the vocal ensemble back to the town in which she grew up. The choir will be accompanied on Grand Piano by Teachers Rock® Associate John Bangham, who also originates from the town.

There will be uplifting contemporary music and gospel singing featuring songs like Coldplay’s ‘Fix You’ and the gospel classic ‘Oh Happy Day!’. This choir are guaranteed to get their audience both clapping and singing along! All tickets priced at £5. Available online www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/577005 or from Unique Boutique, 22 Cornmarket Street, Great Torrington, EX38 8EY (01805) 622476 or direct from St Michael’s Church 01805 622166. Visit: www.teachersrock.co.uk.

The Great Torrington Cavaliers Community Panto

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n 2015, after taking several years to build a life size village of Trumpton, The Great Torrington Cavaliers then burnt it down (as they do!), raising thousands of pounds for local charities in the process. One of those charities was The Plough Arts Centre, who have, in return offered them space to stage a panto.

A decision that they hopefully will not live to regret! It’s too late now anyway because in January, the Great Torrington Cavaliers, in collaboration with Torrington Community Players, are staging a traditional Panto – ‘Snow White & The Magnificent Seven (Dwarves)’. Snow White with a Western theme!

There will be goodies, baddies, a horse and several dwarves. There will be singing, dancing, a lot of ‘Yee ha!. and thigh slapping - good old fashioned fun for all the family!

Tickets are going fast already, so shake off those January blues and come and have a good old fashioned ‘boo’, ‘hiss’, and a ‘he’s behind you’, kind of afternoon/evening.

Showtimes are Saturday January 19th 7.30pm and Sunday 20th 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from The Plough online and at the Box Office 01805 624624.

ALL proceeds will go to The Great Torrington Cavaliers!

Whiskers Pet Centre For your one stop pet shop, A large stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, Bedding, wild bird products, Medical items etc....

Find us at 20 south street, Great Torrington 01805 622859

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What’s On in Great Torrington?

At a loose end? Need to find a new hobby or activity? There should be something here for you!

If you run a sports club or community activity in Great Torrington or the surrounding area, or the exisiting information we have needs amending, please send details in to: torrington.crier@gmail.com.

Monthly diary events are on page 12, making it easier to find what’s on!

SUPPORT & FRIENDSHIP GROUPS FOODBANK Tuesday 10am-12noon at the Baptist Church and Saturday 10am-12noon at Castle Hill Singing for health, for older people, those with dementia and their carers. 10.30am-12pm, Torrington Community Hospital. £1.50 donation per session. For details call 01805 622666.

(First & third Wed of the month) Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Wed of the month 10.30am-12.30pm @ Phase 1 Common Room, Ethelwynne Brown Close, East the Water Bideford Men’s Shed: Football Club, School Lane 9am-12.30pm.

Come and see us in action, every Tuesday & Thursday.

Contact Colin on 01805 624030 Memory Cafe 10.30am -12.30pm, Methodist Church at the top of Mill Street. Every second Thursday Torridge Gingerbread Group, every Monday, 10-12 noon, Bluecoat Centre, Beach Room (usually) email: torridgegingerbreadgroup@outlook.com or find us on

Facebook.

U.S. Social Group. Get out and meet new friends. We meet every Monday at 8pm @ the Panniers in Barnstaple (Weatherspoons). The age range is 40 plus. Varied interests including skittles, dancing, meals out etc. Mixed social group for people on their own.

‘Hearing Loss Support Group’ Social group for the hard of hearing. Every third Tues 2pm @ The Bickford Centre. Call 01271 373236 The Jolly Dollies is a social support network for widows, offering support and understanding in a social setting. Meets twice monthly in Torrington. For further information please phone 01271 858685 or go to www.thejollydollies.com to discover more about us.

Torrington Friendship Club for town residents - over 65.

Weekly social event, every Thursday Methodist Church Hall 2-4pm. Contact Margaret Woodman 01805 622096

HEALTH, SPORT & FITNESS (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training above TVSC, Mondays 6.15pm boxers; Tuesdays 6.30pm Recreational boxers (fitness); Wednesdays 6.30pm carded boxers only; Thursdays 6.30pm Recreational boxers (fitness), Fridays 6.15pm boxers; Saturdays 9.30-11am Junior BoxFit (6 to 10 year olds) Running club every Monday & Wednesday at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm every Wednesday Wendy’s Fitness for Life classes every Thursday at the Scout Hall Gas Lane 07787 607 322 Slimming World Join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street.

Tuesdays 5:30 & 7:30pm. Thursdays 9.30am,11.30am & 5.30pm. Lisa 07515 256 965 Junior Golf Training every Sat 9-10am @ Libbaton Golf Club Fitness with Friends: Castle Community Centre Torrington, gentle exercise class, every Monday weekly in term time, 2 -3.30pm, £3 donation, 01805 622666 Badminton Club every Tues 7-8pm juniors, adults 8-9pm @ High Bickington Community Centre 01769 561387 Short Mat Bowls 2-4pm every Mon & Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre.

Short Mat Bowling at the Clubhouse, Castle Street. Every Monday and Friday 2pm or 6pm. Visitors will be made most welcome. Secretary John Pitts 01805 439100 or visit www.

greattorringtonbowlingclub.co.uk Hatha Yoga Thursdays 10-11.30am, Castle Community Centre, South Street, Torrington, 01805 93812 or 07789 020 668. Email: ruthchambers@gmail.com Pilates in Yarnscombe on Mondays & Tuesdays, contact: Sue 07896 326 024 email sue.spiritunleashed@gmail.com Function Fitness classes 01805 622719: Mondays: X-fit 7am, Spin 9.30am, Total Balance 10.30am, Spin 5.30pm, Pump 45 6.30pm, Hiit circuits 7.30pm Tuesdays: Pump 9.30am, Spin 6.00pm, Legs, Bums, Tums 7pm Wednesdays: X-fit 7am, Spin 9.30am, Youth Inductions 3.45pm, Boxfit 6pm, Ergo rowing circuit 7pm Thursdays: Pump 9.30am, Barre Concept 5.30pm, Spin 6.30pm, Pump 45 7.30pm Fridays: X-fit 7am, Spin 9.30am, Kettlebells & bars 10.30am, Spin 6pm, Pole Fitness 7pm Saturdays: Spin 8am, Pump 9am, Barre Concept 10.15am Sundays: Sunday Circuit 8am, Spin/core/stretch 9am Pilates with Lou Banfield ‘LB Movement’ @ Function Fitness: Mondays 12.15pm & 1.30pm, Tuesdays 6pm & 7pm, Wednesdays 1.30pm, 5.45pm & 6.45pm, Fridays 10.30am Authentic Wado-Ryu Karate-Do “Ken Shu Kan”, Function Fitness. Classes for beginners Mondays 7-7.45pm (12yrs+) Thursdays 6-6.45pm (6-11yrs) & 7-7.45pm (12yrs+) Saturdays 1.30-2.15pm (12yrs+), www.devonwadoryu.co.uk

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

A multifunctional room with garden, based at Castle Hill, Torrington Ideal for private parties & group meetings.

• Adjacent to public car park • Self contained kitchen facilities available • Wifi available • Catering by Café @1646 • Regular bookings welcomed • Competitive rates For booking rates & details contact Susie and John Golightly 07917 651 938 Genesis (Great Torrington) Ltd, Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Tel: 01805 626100 (Admin office Tues, Wed & Thurs 9.30am–12.30pm)

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Email: genesis@great-torrington.com

REGULAR CHURCH SERVICES

Gt Torrington Parish Church Services: Thursdays 10.30am Said Mass, Coffee morning 11am-1pm; Fridays 8.30am Said Mass; Sundays 10am Sung Mass & Sunday Club Encounter. Modern worship, exploring faith, meeting with others. Encounter God. Great coffee and cakes.7pm High Bickington Community Centre. Every second Sunday.

Catholic Church of the Holy Family Mass every Sun 9.15am

Torrington Methodist Church, please see diary section.

Grosvenor Church Torrington, The Plough10.30am, with an exciting children’s programme. Every Sunday. Tim 07798 670 754.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bradford Village Hall, Holemoor, Bradford, Holsworthy, EX22 7AB. Sunday Sacrament service 10-11am Torrington Baptist Church, please see diary section.

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

time on Tuesdays 6-7:30pm.

1st Torrington Cub Scouts (age 8-10) meet during term time on Mondays 6-7:30pm 1st Torrington Scouts (age 10-14) meet during term time on Monday 7:30-9pm.

Youth Club for 11+ 5-7pm @ High Bickington Community Centre ALLSORTS Children’s Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 6.30-8pm. School years 1-6. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 ALLSORTS Plus Youth Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 8-9.15pm. School years 6 and upwards. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 Little Otters Baby & Toddler Group, every Friday, 9am11.30am, at The Clinton Hall, Merton Little Fishes Toddler Group at Baptist Church every Thurs term time 9.30am -11.30am £1.50 per family. Jill 01805 624387 Toddler Group 9.30-11am every Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre Little Frogs sessions Mon – Fri 8.45am-3.45pm term time, Gas Lane, Torrington, contact - 07870 509 674 Little Otters Pre-School, at The Clinton School, Merton MonThurs, 9am till 3.30pm, with lunch club 12–1pm, term time.

For more details 01805 603357 admin@clinton.devon.sch.uk

LEISURE, HOBBIES & ENTERTAINMENT (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Plough Workshops: every Monday: Yoga 6:30-8pm; Folk Orchestra 7-9pm; every Tuesday: Yoga 2:30-4pm; Adults ballet 6:30-7:30pm; Ploughcappella 7:30-9pm; every Thursday: French Conversation with Sylvie Guers 6-7pm; Sapta Dance 11am-12:30pm; Tai Chi 2.15-3.15pm. every second Thursday Open Mouth Music & Poetry 8pm; every Friday: Sarah Anne Westcott School of Dance 4-7.15pm; Art on Friday, twice per month 10.30am-2.30pm; every Saturday: Plough Youth Theatre 9:45am-5:15pm; first Sunday of the month: Plough Story Telling Circle 2.30-5.30pm Bideford Camera Club meets on Tuesdays, 7:30pm, at Bideford Methodist Hall, 60 High Street, Bideford. Phone: 01237 421391, email: enqs@bidefordcameraclub.co.uk.

Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4pm Doug 01805 622648 Beryl 01805 624294 all welcome (every second Saturday) Tai Chi 12.30pm every Thursday, Torrington Community Hospital. Ageing Well on 01805 622666. £2.50 donation Cribbage pairs comp, third Wed of the month, Torrington Arms 8pm Tarka Pottery Adult Pottery Classes every Thursday in term time:10-12 noon, 1.30-3.30pm and 7-9pm 07931 306 414.

Every Tuesday in term time: 10-12 noon and 7-9pm t: 07931 306 414 Papercrafts & scrapbooking club every Thursday 7-9.30pm, The Owl Barn Studio, EX22 7LW, £2 bring your own project or try something new, 07853 319 250 or owlbarnstudio@ btinternet.com English Folk Dancing 8pm every Fri @ Northam Village Hall with Bideford Ceilidh Club. Info John 01237 476632 Writers Poets & Listeners every first Thursday 7.30pm Conservative Club Tarka Valley Railway. Volunteers meet every Thursday from 9am till about 3pm at Torrington Station (the Puffing Billy), unless weather is appalling. Variety of tasks. 07881 905 260.

Bingo at St Giles Parish Hall, eyes down at 7.30pm, last

Thursday of the month Torrington Craft Group, every Monday 1-4pm in the Methodist Church Hall £10 per month or £3.50 per session including refreshments, Jeanne Singleton 01805 622650 Torrington Silver Band practice Mon & Weds 8-9.30pm @ Howe Concert Hall Nick Megson 01805 622150 Cash Bingo TVSC 7.30pm every Mon Hobbies Arts & Crafts Group Langtree Parish Hall every Tues 10.30-12.30pm £1.50 inc tea & coffee Sylvie 01805 601485 Probus Club meets at the Black Horse, High Street, Torrington, 10am. Every fourth Thursday.

Torrington Rotary Club meet weekly on Tuesdays at Torrington Golf Club (6pm for 6:30pm) - Secretary Rick Smale on 01805 622419. Prospective members, and members from other Rotary Clubs most welcome.

Learn Bellringing for free: Most Mondays 7.30pm at Monkleigh Church and Wednesday, 7.30pm at Torrington Church, contact - Clive Ward 0771078 885 or monk2364@icloud.com Art on Friday meets every second and fourth Friday at The Plough Arts Centre 10.30am-2.30pm. New members always welcome. Contact Hazel 01805 623757.

Great Torrington WI meets second Wednesday of each month excluding June (outing) & August (picnic). 7pm at the Methodist Rooms. Visitors & new members welcome.

Phoenix Line Dancing Club. New beginner/improver line dance classes at Weare Gifford Village Hall Tuesdays 7.309.30pm. All ages and abilities welcome. Ian 07833 720 050 or Marilyn 07825 278 405 Bideford Folk Dance Club 7.30pm Wednesdays in term time at Northam Hall. Further details from Chris on 01237 423554 Torridge Ramblers walk footpaths in the Torridge area with additional walks further afield. For details of the programme contact 01805 625485 or 01237 429080

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listener and offers comfort to those

Diary

To place an entry in the diary, please either email torrington.crier@gmail.com, call 01805 603152, or write your entry in the diary on the Library counter.

Please note, due to space constraints, there is no January diary in this issue.

Apologies for any inconvenience.

December 2018 Saturday 1st

Grinchmas Fayre! From 10am in the town, lights switch on and carols at 6pm Plough Christmas Craft Fair until 23rd December St. Michael’s Parish Church: Christmas Fair 10am-3pm in partnership with the Town’s Grinch-mas Plough Music Blues/Rock Andy Fairweather Low and The Low Riders + High Riders 8pm Dolton & Dowland Christmas Fair 12-3pm, Dolton & Dowland Village Hall Breakfast rolls, coffee and cake 10am to noon, meat raffle, 1st prize £25, 2nd prize £15, takeaway available. In aid of Weare Giffard Village hall refurb/rebuild.

Sunday 2nd

Plough Story Telling Circle (Gallery) 2.30pm Plough Films: Fahrenheit 11/9 3pm; Black 47 (15) 7pm Plough Music: Jean Toussaint Young Lions Quintet at The George, South Molton 7.30pm Breakfast rolls, coffee and cake 10am to noon, meat raffle, 1st prize £25, 2nd prize £15, takeaway available. In aid of Weare Giffard Village hall refurb/rebuild Torrington Baptist Church 10.30am Morning Service, Preacher David Wilson St. Michael’s Parish Church: 6.30pm

www.ngs.org.uk

Advent Vigil Service of quiet reflection and traditional music Torrington Methodist Church 11am Bideford, 6.30pm Rev Andrew Vidamour Holy Communion

Monday 3rd

Girlguiding Torrington’s Christmas Fayre Pannier Market from 6-8pm.

Refreshments & stalls selling Christmas goods & activities for all ages to enjoy.

Wednesday 5th

Plough Quirk Theatre: ‘Puffin Island’ 10.30am & 1pm Plough Workshop: Watercolour Workshop with Galen at St Anne’s Arts Centre, Barnstaple 7pm Devon Sensory Outreach Bickford Centre 11-3pm

Thursday 6th

Plough Quirk Theatre: ‘Puffin Island’ 10.30am & 1pm Plough Walk: A Walk Back in Time Through Our Historic Town, St. Anne’s Arts Centre, Barnstaple 1pm Plough by Satellite NT Live: Anthony & Cleopatra 7pm Langtree Market every Thursday, 102pm, food, pet supplies, gifts, crafts and more. New stall holders welcome.

Refreshments available

Friday 7th

Burwood Park’s Helping Hands Ladies Night. Torridge Vale Social club, doors open at 8pm. See article for more details.

Victorian Christmas Soiree (or evening get-together!) with sumptuous desserts, entertaining company & carol singing.

Come in costume if desired. Torrington Methodist Church 6.30pm. Tickets from Heather 01805 623002, Vivienne 01805 623024 or Trish 01805 625370.

Plough Quirk Theatre: ‘Puffin Island’ 10.30am & 1pm Plough Films: Waiting for You (12A)

6pm; Peterloo (12A) 8pm Little Torrington Annexe Christmas Dinner Dance, 7 for 7.30pm, dancing to the Texans. £16 01805 623297 Abbeyfield Christmas Coffee Morning 10.30am-12pm, Glen Tor, Villa Road

Saturday 8th

Plough Quirk Theatre: ‘Puffin Island’ 1.30pm & 4pm Plough Music: The Rancheros at The George, South Molton 8pm Plough Film: Peterloo (12A) 8pm St. Michael’s Parish Church: Armistice Centenary Concert by N Devon Choral Society and orchestra 7.30pm Beaford Village Hall Market 10.30am to 12.30am tasty breakfast baps, coffee and cake and a chance to buy from a range of stalls. Car washing £5. New stall holders welcome, please ring 01805 603199 or 01805 603046 for details.

Sunday 9th

Plough Films: Peterloo (12A) 3pm; Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) 7pm Plough Music: Francis Dunnery House Concert - St Annes, Barnstaple 7pm Torrington Baptist Church 10.30am Family Communion, Preacher Magnus Proctor Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Colin Rice, 6.30pm Rev Rob Blackhall

Tuesday 11th

Plough Childrens Theatre: Above Bounds Theatre: ‘The Elves and The Shoemaker’ 1pm Little Torrington WI meet at LT Village Hall 7.30pm, speaker Pam Rayner on ‘Christmas Hand Bells’.

Wednesday 12th

Plough Childrens Theatre: Above Bounds Theatre: ‘The Elves and The Shoemaker’10.30am &1pm Plough Film: Waiting for You (12A) 8pm

Little Otters Pre-school

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Little Otters Pre-school offers a fun and safe environment for 2 –5 year olds to learn and play. We accept Early Years and 2-Year-Old funding.

If you would like to come and visit please contact Dolton Primary School on 01805 804315. www.tarkafed.org

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The Big Sing 7pm Great Torrington Pannier Market Great Torrington WI Methodist Rooms 7pm Christmas Party quizzes, games and party food.

Thursday 13th

Plough Film: Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) 7pm Plough Music & Poetry: Open Mouth Music & Poetry (Gallery) 8pm BINGO at Beaford village hall! Doors open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm. Bar, tea and coffee available. Free parking and cash prizes. Second Thursday of every month Taddiport Chapel: 6pm Carol Service with seasonal refreshments

Friday 14th

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity - Christmas Distribution of Vouchers at The Plough, Torrington 9.30am-2pm. Please see posters around the town for further information.

Plough Film: Juliet, Naked (15) 6pm Plough Music: Peter Knight and John Spiers The George, South Molton 8pm Plough Film: Black 47 (15) 8pm Xmas Bingo Yarnscombe VH 7.30pm

10.30am Julia Spencer, 6.30pm Light up a Life Rev Rob Blackhall

Monday 17th

Plough Talk: Peter Christie talk: ‘The Skeleton Army Comes to North Devon’ at St Anne’s Arts Centre, Barnstaple 7.30pm Plough Film: Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) 7.30pm

Wednesday 19th

St. Michael’s Parish Church: Carols by Candlelight 7pm

Thursday 20th

Plough Films: Widows (15) 5pm; Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) 8pm

Friday 21st

Plough Music: Sam Green and the Midnight Heist + support Black Anchors and Stellar Fox (standing gig + balcony seats) 8pm Plough Theatre: David Mynne ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens at St Anne’s Arts Centre, Barnstaple 8pm

Saturday 22nd

Plough Workshop: Festive Fingerprints Bunting Making at Guildhall, Barnstaple 10am Saturday 15th Plough Theatre: David Mynne ‘A Torrington Silver Band Christmas Concert. Howe Concert Hall, 7:30pm, £5 Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens 8pm on the door, under 16’s free.

St Michael’s Parish Church: Teachers Cavaliers’ Christmas Grotto & Giveaway Town Hall Undercroft 10am Rock Concert 7.30pm – see separate -1pm. article for details

Sunday 16th

Plough Films: Juliet,Naked (15) 3pm; Widows (15) 7pm Torrington Baptist Church 10.30am Nativity celebration join us to hear the Christmas story & enjoy food & activities St. Giles Little Torrington: 6.30pm Carol and Christingle Service wkith refreshments in the Victory Hall Torrington Methodist Church -

Sunday 23rd

Plough Music: Exmoor Carolers 3pm Torrington Baptist Church no Morning Service CAROL SERVICE 6:30PM all are welcome to this traditional service followed by hot drinks, sausage rolls & mince pies.

St. Mary and St. Gregory Frithelstock: 2.30pm Carol and Christingle Service with refreshments

Torrington Methodist Church 6.30pm Elsie Potter, 6.30pm Carol Service with Rev Rob Blackhall Christmas Caper Run Torrington Rugby Club 11am

Monday 24th

St. Michael’s Parish Church: 6pm Crib and Family Service 11.30pm Midnight Mass

Tuesday 25th

St. Michael’s Parish Church: 10am Christmas Day Communion Torrington Methodist Church 10am Rev Rob Blackhall

Thursday 27th

Plough Films: The Grinch (PG) 3pm; The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (PG) 5.30pm; Wildlife (12A) 8pm

Friday 28th

Plough Films: The Grinch (PG) 2pm; Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald 4pm; The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (PG) 7pm

Saturday 29th

Plough Films: The Grinch (PG) 11am; The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (PG) 3pm; Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald 7pm

Sunday 30th

Plough Films: The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (PG) 3pm; Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald 5pm; Wildlife (12A) 8pm Torrington Baptist Church 10.30am Communion service

Monday 31st

Cavaliers’ New Year’s Eve Disco in the Square 8am to past midnight.

FEBRUARY COPY DEADLINE 10TH JANUARY 2019

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Need a New Kitchen or Bathroom?

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amar Trading Building Supplies is an independent builders’ merchant, family-run since 1956. With branches located in Torrington, Holsworthy and Bodmin, the company serves both Cornwall and Devon, and all three branches boast an extensive and comprehensive stock of building materials and supplies. With years of experience supplying the building trade, Tamar Trading have naturally turned their hand to the provision of kitchens and bathrooms, and have showrooms at both their Bodmin and Torrington branches. They now offer a full kitchen and bathroom design service at their Torrington branch on Hatchmoor Industrial Estate.

A designer can discuss the huge range of options available with you to help you to make the best possible use of the space available. They will also be able to advise you upon all of the latest products and technologies to ensure your kitchen or bathroom is functional and attractive.

A huge amount of time is spent in the kitchen; cooking, entertaining and relaxing, so it is important to ensure that your kitchen is designed with you in mind. With a multitude of choices of work-surfaces, units and appliances, not to mention colours, tiles and handles, it is good to have a designer to help you to create your perfect kitchen.

Bathrooms can be a place of tranquillity and relaxation, or a place to invigorate yourself and prepare for the day ahead. Whatever your needs you can be sure that a tailor made bathroom will be perfectly designed for you.

Come along to our showroom to see some of the designs and have a chat with Dan or Becky about your ideas and requirements. We will be happy to help you to create your perfect kitchen or bathroom.

Home Technology Support from Westward IT

W

estward IT has launched a brand new division providing technology support to the home consumer in North Devon.

Building upon nine years of experience delivering premier commercial IT services, WIT Home is a separately managed and staffed division which offers not only support for home computers, laptops, tablets and mobile phones, but also a complete supply, installation and support package for connected home equipment such as personal assistants, multi-room music systems, remote controlled lighting and CCTV. WIT Home offers flexible appointment times - including evenings and weekends - and brings low cost, high quality support and training to the home user. To celebrate the launch of WIT Home we are offering clients the chance to win a brand new Lenovo laptop by signing up to our newsletter before midnight on Friday 30th November.

For further information please visit www.withome.co.uk or call Luke Garrad on 0808 254 0700.

New Year New You

A

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re you thinking of losing some weight in January, perhaps for a summer holiday or a family wedding? Then look no further than your local Slimming World group. With Slimming World you can lose weight and never need to go hungry, eating hearty meals such as a full English breakfast, curries, fish and chips and many more family favourites.

2019 is our golden year, celebrating 50 years of changing people’s lives, so why not be part of it and let it change yours.

We meet every Tuesday at 5:30pm and 7:30pm and every Thursday at 9:30am, 11:30am and 5:30pm at The Howe Concert Hall in Castle Street Torrington.

Please give Lisa a call to find out more on 07515 256 965.

A Mindful Approach to New Year’s Resolutions

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eason’s greetings to you all. As we enter this intense season of merry-making, one more holiday tradition will remain: pondering those pesky New Year’s Resolutions.

It’s probably fitting that after a season of indulgence we resolve to change our habits in the New Year. Lose weight!

Exercise more! Save more money!

And then, come February, we sit on the couch and wonder why we haven’t lost those pounds or saved any money or got any fitter!

If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Research indicates that only 8% of people actually achieve their New Year’s resolutions.

The problem with resolutions is that they focus entirely on notions of success and failure. We should perhaps think in terms of intentions instead of resolutions. While resolutions are fixed, intentions are flexible. They’re about where we direct our attention. They’re about being mindful.

Why not enter the New Year with zero pressure to do anything other than remain open to the possibility of your potential, receptive to change and ready to show compassion to yourself for your shortcomings?

Remember what Albert Einstein said: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results”.

How about, for this New Year, you just allow you to be you? It doesn’t seem like a big resolution, but in fact this is absolutely massive.

Try it. Why not resolve to join us in Great Torrington for our MBSR Meditation January/February course and make a Mindful start to 2019.

Please visit www.gentlemind.uk for more information.

COME JOIN US

CLASSES STUDIO CARDIO WEIGHTS SPIN X-FIT POLE BARRE PUMP BOXERCISE STEP AEROBICS CIRCUITS

GOOGLE US! FULL TIMETABLE ONLINE

FUNCTIONFITNESSTORRINGTON.CO.UK

Please remember to support our local businesses and ‘Think Local First’!

To feature in these pages is free for advertisers, please contact Esther Williams on torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com for information.

Function Fitness Under New Management!

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unction Fitness has been in the town for nearly seven years, where did that time go?

It is now under new management, I am very pleased to report that I have handed the baton over to my son Charlie Banfield, you may have seen him beavering away making changes behind the scenes and front of house. He’s also been known to attend the dance fit and take a few classes! But mostly Charlie has been working hard building a new website, rebranding and injecting his youth and enthusiasm into the business.

He will be launching the new website and branding soon, along with our new memberships. We are really excited about our new personal training membership, which offers free unlimited gym and class use.

We are also investing in some new equipment in the New Year, so if you haven’t been in for a while, come in say hi and have a look around, follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with news and classes.

As for me? Well I’ll still be around the gym, as my new Pilates and Yoga business LB Movement is based there.

Have a healthy and happy holiday season!

Lou and Charlie, Function Fitness

Wellbeing at The Wiszen Way

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he Wiszen Way nestles comfortably within the units at the Pannier Market.

More of a well-being centre than a shop; we aim to support our customers with our beautiful Weleda products, herbal teas and natural remedies. We also stock hand rolled incense, gorgeous diaries and calendars, cds for relaxing and dancing to, and artwork.

I have trained within the Industry for 25 years as a natural health consultant, having previously been a co-owner and director of Canterbury Wholefoods in Kent. Feel free to drop by for a free consultation in the strictest confidence. There are teas to ease winter ailments, comforting oils, salves and syrups with many products to support your family’s well-being this winter I am also passionate about wool crafts. and will be hosting spinning and various weaving workshops throughout the year.

My work is on sale but do come and join me for a knit and natter.

Mezzie Elen Lucerne-Lambourne, The Wiszen Way, Unit 8, Pannier Market

Chimneys, Boilers & More!

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ince moving to the area five years ago, my wife and I have embraced country life and relished being part of a community; supporting the local school and organisations where we can. We began this business as we ourselves found it difficult to find a certified chimney sweep!

I have a military background and this has stood me in good stead, having a ‘get to’ attitude! So therefore we went about getting ourselves trained and qualified to sweep chimneys.

I’ve always been able to take any challenge head on, and for us it was important to be certified and recognised by an organisation. This meant completing many different courses and training and being inspected and accountable!

I have completed a City of Guilds in chimney sweeping and an installation course, as well as an Oftec qualification in oil servicing, tank and boiler installation. My military background (and my wife) have taught me to be timely, efficient, clean and tidy! This is hugely important to us and all work is completed to the highest of standards.

Please get in touch with SJ Chimneys on 07500 861 862.

be hot! with

Slimming World

Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street, Torrington • Every Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm • Every Thursday 9.30am, 11.30am & 5.30pm Contact Lisa 07515 256 965 slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000

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WHO’S WHO? 20

Great Torringto ‘Who is Who’ at YOUR Council?

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here have been a number of changes within the Town Council over the past few years. We thought it might be helpful to introduce those who are new, and remind the community of those who have been in their respective posts for some time.

To that end we have produced a ‘Who’s Who?’ guide with photographs so that you can recognise us in the community. Each Councillor has also set out his/her own specific areas of involvement and interest, to help guide you to the councillor who may be able to help.

As well as this, there have been a few changes of members of staff and role holders. We have included an update on these for your information.

We also thought it would be useful to share regular updates on how the Council is working with, and on behalf of, our wonderful community; so from now on we aim to this on a regular basis in The Crier. We hope you will find this helpful.

Cllr Mrs Di Davey, Mayor of Great Torrington

Town Councillors Cllr Mrs Di Davey Mayor of Great Torrington

Specific areas of interest and involvements are as follows: Planning and Environment Committees. With a particular interest in health and wellbeing, planning in general, dementia awareness and community safety matters. In addition, I endeavour to support the local community as Mayor, and represent Great Torrington throughout various towns, villages and activities across North Devon.

Cllr Miss Keeley Allin Deputy Mayor of Great Torrington

Interests and involvements are as follows: Environment Committee (Chairman); Policy and Finance Committee; Great Torrington Town Tidy initiatives; ‘Scoop the Poop’ initiative; Torrington in Bloom Association.

Particular interests in environmental issues in Great Torrington, and supporting initiatives promoting the appearance of, and pride in, Great Torrington.

Contact us:

Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Great Torrington, Devon, EX38 8AA Tel: 01805 626135 Email: admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk Website: www.great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk Open Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 9am-1pm.

To contact a Councillor, please get in touch via the above information, or direct contact details are on our website in the ‘My Council’ drop down menu, simply select ‘Councillors’.

on Town Council Cllr Mr Chris Bright

I am involved with the Policy and Finance Committee; Environment Committee; the Chamber of Trade; the Futures Group; the Burwood Park Helping Hands; May Fair Committee; Youth Genesis and Town Tidies. I am keen to improve the economic stance of the town and to ensure that it is a wonderful place to live for all.

Cllr Mrs Margaret Brown

My interests are all those that affect the regeneration of Great Torrington, as well as children’s activities; the provision of jobs and affordable housing and making sure that every child receives the education that they deserve. I am a Trustee of the Town Hall and a member of the following: Torrington in Bloom; the dementia group; May Fair Committee; Torrington Together; the Standards in Public Life Committee and Save Our Hospital Services. I am Chair of Planning for Great Torrington Town Council, and Vice Chairman of Planning at Torridge District Council.

As a District Councillor I have been able to support many of our organisations with grants amounting to many thousands of pounds over the years, and continue to do so.

Cllr Mrs Gill Clayton

My specific areas of interest and involvements are as follows: Policy and Finance Committee; Health and Social Care Committee; Neighbourhood Plan Group; Town Tidies and ‘Scoop the Poop’ initiatives. I have a particular interest in health and wellbeing; support for young and older people, and regeneration of Great Torrington.

Cllr Mrs Laura Cooper

Areas of interest include education and the provisions available for young people of the town. I’m a percussionist in Torrington Silver Band, and ‘Events and Fundraising Coordinator’ on the band committee.

I’m often organising fundraisers for the various groups I support and enjoy the community spirit we have in our town. I am also Chairperson of Burwood Park’s Helping Hands. Other interests include the regeneration of Great Torrington, the arts and our local environment.

Cllr Miss Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin

I am interested in all aspects of Great Torrington, but in particular the opportunities for young people, regeneration of the town and protecting our environment. Specific interests and involvements are as follows: The Futures Group; Chamber of Trade; ‘Scoop the Poop’ and ‘Town Tidy’ initiatives; Environment Committee; Youth Genesis; Community Development Trust; Calf Street Park Action Group; Fair Funding for All Schools and Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club. I am passionate that Great Torrington deserves a fair deal and I do all I can to represent the town as a District Councillor for Torridge District Council.

Cllr Mr Stephen Ford

Trustee of Abbeyfield South West Society, Great Torrington and District Community Development Trust and Friends of St. Giles Church.

I am a retired Chartered Accountant, but still active in the community and I very much wish to contribute to the future prosperity and wellbeing of our historic town and its residents; especially our young citizens yet to make their mark on our community.

Cllr Mr John Insull

Specific areas of interest and involvements are as follows: Health and Social Care Steering Group; Environment Committee and ‘Scoop the Poop’. I am particularly interested in the areas of health and wellbeing; our environment and natural resources; education and the arts, and the promotion of a positive and cohesive community in Great Torrington.

Cllr Mr Des Maisey

I sit on the Environment Committee and have an interest generally in the environment of Great Torrington. I appreciate our common land and am interested in the artistic and cultural side of the town. I am also interested in exploring how we can boost economic regeneration and promote our fabulous town.

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WHO’S WHO? 22

Cllr Miss Chenie Miller

I have been a town councillor for over three years and I am interested in the growth of Great Torrington in general. I sit on the Planning Committee and I am a founder member of the Great Torrington Futures Group, which strives to achieve economic regeneration for the town. I am also a member of the Fairtrade group and the Futures Group fundraising subcommittee. I love Great Torrington and I am passionate about the future of our town.

Cllr Miss Sue Mills

I have lived in the area all my life, and I joined the town council 16 years ago, wanting to help the local community. I currently sit on the Planning and Environment committees; my interests are the future of Torrington for our youngsters, and protecting the environment. I am currently Vice-Chair of the Town Hall project, and a trustee at the Bickford Centre. I am also a Rotarian, raising money to help the community and local school children, who are our future.

Cllr Mrs Cathrine Simmons

I have been a Town Councillor for around 23 years. My areas of interest are housing; the economy and vitality of the town and environmental/green issues. I am a Trustee of Town Hall, and the Bickford Centre, and an active member of the festival committee. I am Chair of the Policy and Finance Committee and a member of the Health and Social Care Steering Group and Neighbourhood Plan Group. I wish to see Great Torrington become more prosperous and thrive, and this is my motivation. I also represent the town as District Councillor with Torridge District Council.

Cllr Mr Doug Smith

I have lived in the area for over 25 years, and have always had a keen interest in green issues and renewable energy. I am a qualified Master Scuba Diver, and while exploring oceans all over the globe have seen at first hand, the devastation caused by our ill-considered use of the oceans, as a convenient dumping ground for unwanted and often toxic waste. I am a Parish Councillor in Little Torrington; a member of the Taddiport Village Hall Committee, and a Governor of Great Torrington School.

Cllr Mr Nigel Stark

Areas of specific involvement and interests cover the full range of environmental issues affecting our town. Having been involved in building and civil engineering, I have seen how these have an impact on community well-being. I am a member of the Planning and Environment Committees and am involved with developing our Neighbourhood plan. I am ViceChairman of the town’s branch of British Legion. These activities, together with the Deepmoor Community Working Group and the Area Advisory Group complete the circle. Having been a competitive cyclist, I have a keen interest in sports, and see that maintaining sports venues in the town together with children’s play provisions, as areas of prime importance.

Cllr Mrs Siobhan Strode

I’m interested in helping our town become a thriving hub for young families in Devon. I’m an active campaigner for Fair Funding for All Schools, and a Governor at Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School, as well as helping with the local park groups. I joined the Planning Committee, as I want to ensure that any development in Great Torrington benefits the local people and NOT the pockets of developers. I’ve been involved with the Town Tidies and love seeing the whole community get stuck in!

Great Torrington Town Council Role Holders

Al, Mario and Brian are accomplished role holders and have served the community for a number of years. Andy Griffiths has volunteered in keeping the parish paths clear over the years, but is relatively new to his role of Beadle, starting this summer.

Al Mitchell – Town Crier and Flag Bearer

The Town Crier has an important role in Great Torrington. He is there to bring order to the various celebrations and events. He announces the Mayor and the Town Clerk, and his loud voice is essential when there is a noisy crowd to silence, particularly during the Proclamation of the May Fair. The Flag Raiser is responsible for ensuring the appropriate flag is raised at the appropriate time, according to a calendar of events maintained by the Town Council. The flags are flown on the Town Hall. Al Mitchell has held the position of Town Crier and Flag Raiser for many years. He used to work at Dartington Crystal and since retiring, helps maintain the Commons. Al is also well known as a musician locally and sings a range of types of music.

Mario Magarotto – Mace Bearer

Originally from Italy, Mario came to Great Torrington via Sweden to work in the glass industry at Dartington Crystal. Until he retired earlier this year, Mario maintained the recreation fields at Donnacroft for the local football teams and school sports days. Mario and his family have been involved with the pageantry of May Days in Great Torrington for many years; with his children and grandchildren enjoying roles as May Queens and Attendants, and Mario has been a Mace Bearer for 10 years.

Brian Woods – Mace Bearer

Brian originally moved down to the South West to work in a local pub, and like many others, has made Great Torrington his home! Brian has been a Mace Bearer for the town for over seven years, but prior to this, he was a familiar face around the town keeping it tidy when he worked for Torridge District Council. Brian believes strongly in the honour of the Mace Bearer’s role and enjoys the May Day pageantry.

Working for you

Andy Griffiths – P3 and Beadle

Andy Griffiths, the younger son of the late Frank Griffiths (a well-known teacher in Great Torrington) is our Beadle and P3 Coordinator. Returning home after 30 years of military and pre-hospital emergency care service around the world, Andy has held the position of P3 (Parish Paths Partnership) Coordinator for 14 years.

The P3 Coordinator is responsible for inspecting and maintaining town footpaths out to the town Commons.

More recently, Andy has taken on the important role of Beadle for the town. The Beadle’s duties include accompanying the Mayor to various functions, as well as taking part in events within the town. Andy follows a long-standing family tradition of service to the local community.

Town Marshall

The Town Marshall organises the parades and processions through the town on important days such as May Fair, Remembrance Sunday and the Civic Service. For the past 10 years or so, this important role has been undertaken by Louise Banfield, who has done an excellent job. However, Louise has recently stepped down from this role and we all wish her well for the future. We will be advertising for a new Town Marshal in due course.

Members of staff

Charlotte Kirby joined the Town Council as Office Manager in March 2018, and Karen Chapman joined as Town Clerk in June 2018. Sharon Lambert has worked for the Council for a number of years as the Council’s accountant and website administrator.

Our Technicians Andy and Colin, undertake a number of maintenance activities around the town; in recent years this has included taking on the maintenance of Rack Park and the Church Yard from Torridge District Council, and grass cutting from Devon County Council.

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locations these supporting the café and its customers t this time of year it can Townforand Villages so if you can spare two hours a month be difficult to maintain Great Torrington Benefice: Wed 6.30-8pm Shirley content!

Lee 01805 carnival queen and her attendants. wives shop to their hearts’ Fri 4 Information then please get cardboard in touch. interest Hartland Church Hall yyour the evening way itCommunity had been recycle their place it in in the garden, safely for future generations. will be 625965 Dolton’s three pubs areMarket all expected The Centre is available to hire for Pannier Bric-a-Brac every Fri & Little Torrington, Centre In April is one coming toway is to introduce but easy Some ofGreat their your newAnnie brownBrierley and put out for Woodland Valepoems Care The committee isbag now working hard our volunteers alonghave all Weight Watchers @ The to benefit from the carnival atmosphere meetings, after 4pm, through into the 10am-4pm Sydney House Car Park, read short stories and poems which play in and the (opposite Plough. your Their collection withforyour bottles, cans and shrubs with colourful stems, in on Taddiport &toFrithelstock raising funds some bright new urage ensure Conservative Club every 6.30and an influx of visitors.Devon There will be a evenings on most days, andWed also on Allsorts Childrens’ Club, Bluecoat Roselyn, Shebbear. next 'Panamart') should invoke a lot of memories from was Centre, so well Bideford written that I newspapers. particular shrubby Cornus (C. alba, Arts curtains to give the hall a fresh new mes.

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All for(dark along the way and more eveBideford term-time (Juniors for church funds, 01769 580241 November to church from 2 vote for a local charity/ ‘Kesselringii’ purple-black), please to masonry and stonework are taking Awards For All. (If each. you have views on the use of l.ses’ The by future is theirs, and £7.50 (Seeany diary forth details). some of our 8-9.30pm)@ Torrington sports hall.

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Please go Next to to A New Book accepted part of our community.

They Tues of every month for under 5's 1 torrington.crier@gmail.com, or drop March, I was again y 30 some of the best and planted throughout beautifully the vivid stems. buildings’ contractors, er. So historic make sure you expert Film 'The Hedgehog' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough Arts Centre, 6.15-7.15pm 'Unguiding' preview 7pm tonight @ The many parts of the world. www.communityforce.natwest.com/ about Torrington is finally Salix alba ‘Golden Ness’ willfamily be able to engage abook support worker Fitness League taster classes every them into the Library, gh for Carrek. the Dream Kidz Rosemoor.

Rosemoor Lake, stwe have a wonderful on Memory Café The and work is My largely funded by the isthanks) friends, Theway Ploughof Plough Torrington Scout projects/ and type 1 Meditation a on its way! to assist with form-filling, producing a Tues 10-11am @ The Plough Michele and in the Winter Garden produces display of Galanthus ‘Atkinsii’ AGM café seems to behisFund without learning dof getJoseph your registration Heritage Lottery which the to AGM Group into the project name box, relax CV, searching coursesit Town I haveTorrington written as lovely aThu series of yellow 01237 422195 oreducation 07527406743 Dreamcoat.

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This is one of the rs performance, every month.

Pannier General Market every Sat distinguished history of our town’s Parish Notice of Annual Meeting of the many of your friends and family to do challenges which life ask about Torrington and its voluntary or paid work.

The group has Torrington Rugby Club 7-8.30pm Linda evening music and and and fireworks will give a small Devon 10am–4pm round to 10am–4pm day fell Church, onoffriends Valentine’s for the willow workshops in the Learning earliest snowdrops and one of the most dating back to 1250 is being so as well, as if we are successful we throws It canvillage also Town Council drop-in daysonthree a week, (see attheus.answers, surroundings and of Toddler Masterson 01805 623212 byregister thewe young people of times ais a blaze of publicity Little Fishes Group at an and Film 'Crazy, Stupid Love' (ctba)Early 8pm ebrate had apay duet Centre gardens treat to behold, vigorous, ideal for naturalising. guaranteed for the future. will be able to continue our program of help to reduce stress.

By learning to which include a Notice 'listening ear', is herby that: varying length andgiven detail, to next thosemonth.

Group & girls 6-8yrs e really diary) are Beaver very lucky to boys Torrington Baptiststems Churchleft every termnightwalk.co.uk.

Please @ The Plough ng ballads well as the with multi-coloured standing flowerers such as hellebores look refurbishment to Scout HQ, notalso only In as the present, St.The Michael’s weThere find space in our busy someone from community who isare questions.

64 sections on Annual Meeting and every term-time Tues @ Scout Hut, alent in Torrington.

Thethemeditate Dolton’s annual carnival, time Thurs 9.30-11.30am, £1.50 per 10 ‘Early Bird’ entry fee cuits and decorations. through the winter. stunning. benefitting the Scout group, but all community committed tothose serving, happy to the sitisand and for different topics and 160 and Inauguration of theover Mayor ofblack thewhich above lives to get infeeling touch with ourselves anddates st 4.30-5.45pm Anne Lewis, Beaver nding till ovations at endchat, back to Victorian Sun 6 family.

Wendy 01805 623214 April 1helped eame whichcaring, raise whoWinter hire the hall.

Plant in groups, if you haveFawkes the room, those Our Trail highlights some of – lonely and low. named Town Council will be held at the supporting, partnering, white photographs.

I hope that, as well Leader 01805 601580 develop awareness of what is going on ormances and there are times, will be on Guy Catholic Church of the Holy Family Rosemary Conley diet & exercise fee ofwill be £15, so ome theThe costs.

Fran Ashton t will h tovisitors, make a bold statement and they these plants and others will be seen Centre also offers free legal as providing a guide for this Plough Arts Centre, Great Torrington Spiritual Healing 3-4.30pm & 7-9pm. in our mind and in the world around us. celebrating, music-making and, above hem putting on another i g h t , Early S a t uYears r d a yCentre 5 Mass every Sun 9.15am Class,NBluecoat entry in fast! th fortunate again to get advice, and tenancy and debt advice, fail toNovember, lift spirits in the gloom inBaptist a different light 10.30am on our new garden will contain plenty ofnot material thattheevery Mayhappiness, 2013 at 7pm. on Tuesday Frithelstockstone, 01805 622883 we think of finding inner in June for those that Ifbook all, being welcoming and playing a14 which gives theof Church Creative 6.30-7.45pm Thurs Wendy Devon is ofThe interest to townspeople. bythe appointment, (see diary). meeting is open to the public Bingo Taddiport Village Hall every Stems up best if of they illuminations trail (Glow). For more kyfrom enough to get tickets peace, as a Rev. state ofwinter. mind thenwill colour festivities an extra spark full part in the life of the town.

Our Church 01237 424787 prung atwill which help to to Graham Slingo comes in are forlike coffee I would tohelp take us this opportunity to who most welcome.

Tues, eyes down 7.30pm nd.

A huge thankus you are planted inWorld sun, which also bring details onto Willow Weaving adult learning Derek Stamp meditation can to achieve that interest this year.

St.Ode Michael’s Church Sung Mass & Slimming TVSC will every Thurs foundational values are being aa thinking, elop the service we gton and chat, and we have started a book Michael Tighe, Town Clerk thank all the local people who have Rugby Training at Donnacroft every aston and Liz Harris and Derek Stamp is 60, Farmer Ralph Gent, one of the key goal. out the vibrant autumn leaf colour and courses, the Winter Trail and Glow, visit Sermon every Sun 10am 5.30 & 7.30pm Bev Roberts 01805 praying and worshipping church: we are le whohave have memory clubTues for young people (read awrite bookthis book rops helped me by giving 7pm e production team for all A milestone in his life, figures behind the Dowland country fair I teach two complementary practices, Torrington Methodist Church 624955 make the stems shine.

If they can be rhs.org.uk/rosemoor/whats-on? here forwho you!put overFilm a week or one fortnight eohn generously of providing me 'Troll Hunter' (15) 8pm @ their The time, k primroses andPortman effort. we’ve farGilberson, together and dog show in June, isasorganising Great Torrington May Fair Revthis Mark which focuses on the breath and Rugby Training at Donnacroft every And10.30am planted with evergreens a backdrop, Sheilacome Dearing RHS Garden 6.30 Technical At St. Giles Torrington, new work to secure thisLittle come inof and withchat information and focuses lending me their Plough cheof daffodils fundsthen from the sale As devoted man and wife. Services Officer the spectacular finale in which £1,600st th Rev Graham Slingo Thurs 7pm, open 8pm the other which on the the colours willclubhouse be further intensified. & Carnival 1 to 4 May 2013 heating and lighting have been installed tioned inabout last month’s it received over a drink and I have ter the top of photographs.

Everyone I have Centre, I have of spoken fireworks light up the night Film 'Way of the Morris' (12A) 4.30pm Writers, Poets and Listeners 7.30pm emotions. been worth meditating for a& will Great Torrington’s May Fair to make the2the building comfortable Wed moving away from cakes) on Thursdays after oaching the tomore has shown an interest in the project of letters, e-mails and number He’s always there to mywould hand,like sky. @ Thecontact Plough @ the Plough of years and learnt the unique local treasure.

All our Churches Please ushold if you Carnival is a time talking for fun,tolaughter and Little stay & play session and Mary and St. s burst casking hwelcoming. o oanother linto / cTadpoles o l laeAt g eSt. .

O n bout torecruit and I have enjoyed you all. ed toall alls Father And kiss me when I’m sad, The Pipe & Drum Band, Samba Christmas Bazaar stalls & teas 2practices with the weather!!

Triratna Buddhist have regular Church of England services support sad or difficult times. we all hope great However, every term-time Wed 1-3pm Gregory, Frithelstock plans are in01805 hand Monmate 7during Torrington Uncovered will beMethodist Saturdays, gents can sit play of spring colour. iser.

If anyone is reconsider the decision for so many years, Band and Torrington Allstar 3.30pm @ HallMajorettes £1 entry to My soul Community, a movement which has – see website www.stmichaelstorrington.

Everyone is welcome to our it can also be a time when we see an 622747 for restoring thisaGrade I listed building, & Tone every Mon at Christmas The and read coffee, or from hit the Victory Hall available the weekend following post then please get ehas Trustees.

The with Town BestStretch friend I’ve ever had. will allbehaviour, bethat taking part in the parade include refreshments, adapted Buddhism in a way is increase in anti social org.uk for details.

We are always glad events and services please see the diary 3rd Torrington Brownies at Plough 10.30-11.30am, Samina 01837 buy books from our charity fireproof the Priory.

May Fair, after the launch on Saturday next to the Taddiport agreed to doors write ontohistoric behalf through the village, along with many Film 'Kill List' (18) 8pm @ The Plough underage drinking, violence and th to receive enquiries about baptisms, section for full information.

Torrington Baptist Hall, every term-time 682811 or 07974 433 156 bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their May at the Plough. ards have been installed 4 Chapel is in excellent condition and a unity.

We met when I was “just 18”,New Buildings or Renovati brightly-lit floats, including this year’s criminal damage! weddings and anniversary blessings.

Revd. Peter Bevan, Vicar Moira Brewer ore Parish can Records R.PITTS in the Torridge now Then call your L

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Diary

Nov 2011

VICARAGE HQ the Salon

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care services to people throughout the local community, including: cars & vans always in Build stock & Unusual Shrubs, Grasses, Perennials, Alpines, Climbers, General Garden Maintenance Renovations - New - Veg. Extensions GreatCommon Torrington Come and join us for a glass of wine and Free Advice Barn Conversions - Roofing Plastering • Personal Care Services • Preparation- of Meals Garden Devon Fencing “BUILDING &• Night RENOVATIONS” Damp proofing - Timber Treatment Care • Home Help • Sitting Serv ices on: Hedge Laying at the launch Call David Lock Contact Geoff Williams Ex38 8HE OPEN ,* *May Fair, Carnival & Bank Holidays Stone Walling 10 – 4 MOST DAYS * *541 Tel: 01805 624665

Call us today on: 404406 Tel: 01805 01805 623157 /quotation 07971 For a free call Regulated by Care Worker624665 R.PITTS on 01805 603 www.newhairathq.co.uk Barry Pergolas 01805 622 604 The Care Quality Opportunities Tel: 01805 625 999 www.locksbeamfarm.co.uk www.monkleighgarage.co.uk Mob: 07812 067199 - 12.30pm Saturday 4th May 10.30am Mob: 07812423176 067199 Mobile 07854 816 066 Available www.homelifecarers.co.uk Tel: 01237 07721 398 Commission 829 Patio email: tracey@locksbeamfarm.co.uk ““We We care about your hair” air”

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Thank You from the Torrington Community Food Bank

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he Torrington Community Food Bank would like to say a big thank you to the people of Torrington and surrounding villages, for the wonderful support you have given to us this year. It is only through your generosity that we have been able to support all those who use it. We would also like to thank the Co-op, McColl’s, the hospital and the town churches for having collection boxes for us, and for the donation of bags from the Co-op.

A thank you also to Jamie and Claire at Browns Delicatessen, for giving a free cup of tea and scone to food bank users, and to the Crier for all their support. We are so grateful to you all.

Wishing you all a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

The Torrington Community Food Bank

A Night of Live Boxing!

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on’t forget that Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club are holding their Home Show on the evening of Saturday 8th December at GTS Sports Hall, doors 7pm. Licensed bar, amazing raffle, and hot and cold refreshments available.

Always a great night guaranteed!

Our dedicated boxers and coaches have been working extremely hard in preparation, so please come along, bring your friends, have a great night entertainment and cheer on our local boxers!

Unit 2C Hatchmoor Industrial Estate Torrington EX38 7HP Open Tues to Sat

Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group Breton Christmas Festivities

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nsurprisingly for a country of so many diverse cultures, France has a wide variety of Christmas traditions. In Brittany, one of the six Celtic nations, the locals nowadays observe a mix of Catholic customs and those rooted in their Celtic past.

Ancient Celts celebrated the winter solstice, dedicating themselves to the spruce tree, and the spruce remains at the heart of Breton Christmas festivities and is known as ‘ar wezenn Nedeleg’ – Nedeleg being ‘Christmas’ in Breizh, the local language.

Traditionally during Advent, Breton children go from door-to-door singing a ditty: ‘Chantons Noël pour une pomme, pour une poire, pour un petit coup de cidre à boire.’ [Christmas, sing for an apple, for a pear, for a little shot of cider to drink.]

These little Noëlloux, as they are called, are traditionally rewarded with pennies or candles.

As elsewhere in the world, Christmas Eve is well known as the time when spirits walk abroad, and Bretons must brace themselves for a visit from fairies and korrigans, or dwarf-like spirits. At midnight, well water briefly transmogrifies into wine, and ghosts may appear, prompting families to leave out food in case any deceased, but hungry, loved ones drop by.

Food and feasting are of course essential elements of Christmas. After Midnight Mass on the 24th, the French return home to their traditional Réveillon meal, and in most provinces this is an opportunity for gourmandising. In Brittany, by contrast, the meal is a light one, consisting of galettes – buckwheat pancakes – with cream. The main event takes place at midday on Christmas Day and includes bûche de Noël [Yule log] for dessert.

On Twelfth Night, a Galette des Rois [Kings’ Cake] is served with a paper crown atop. Inside is hidden a tiny figurine, and the person who finds it in their slice wears the crown as king or queen for the day, bringing the festive season to a close.

To discover more about the Breton way of life and traditions, why not join us at the Torrington-Roscoff Exchange group? Call Nick on 01805 625765 or Antony on 01271 549454. In the meantime we wish you all a heartfelt Nedeleg laouen!

Fundraising for Michael in our Local Pubs

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ell done to the Torrington Arms, for raising the tremendous sum of £1300.29 for Michael Arrowsmith, who was badly injured in a road accident whilst in Turkey. This was an all-day breakfast for which all the staff worked for free. The Royal Exchange also held an event which involved the shaving of some brave men! The Cavalier Inn’s event involved painful waxing, an auction, draw and a disco, the sum raised was a grand total of £1116.

Di Davey

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StructuredMassage, Classes For All Levels & Ages l General Garden Maintenance Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Holistic & • All Welcome Children • Adults • Families l Garden Fencing ~ FREE FIRST LESSON WITH NO OBLIGATION ~ Contact Yasmin on Beauty treatments l Hedge Laying Established dojo also located in: with Call David Lock BARNSTAPLE, CREDITON & OKEHAMPTON 07825586474 At l Stone Walling PETER HILL For further information or details please R.PITTS on 01805 603 541 01805622719 l Wado-Ryu Pergolas 7th Dan Karate-Do Academy Tel: 01805 624568 / 07983 174499 Japanese trained and graded to present level Mobile 07854 816 066 Yasmin_stacey@live.com l Karate-Ka Patiowith 47 years experience Professional www.devonwadoryu.co.uk Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

16

Pannier Market News!

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big thank you to everyone who came and supported the events in October!

Great fun was had at the family day, and we saw some fantastic Halloween fancy dress! The holistic and wellbeing day was a great success, and there are plans for this to become a regular event next year.

Coming up in December there will be 30 stalls in the market for Grinchmas, on December 1st a proper festive shopping experience!

On Saturday 15th the market will host a 16ft tall snow globe, which you can climb into for photos.

More stallholders are joining the weekly markets in the run up to Christmas, so there is always something new to see.

Please contact us if you are interested in having a stall or want to be involved in other events.

Contact The Chamber of Trade on 01805 628245, or message the Pannier Market’s events page on Facebook.

Anyone wanting to hold their own event can hire the market space.

Don’t forget that the Pannier Market units are open Monday- Saturday and offer a wide range of unique shopping opportunities.

This month’s spotlight is on: The Jewel in the Town

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Then ca Frie

New Buildings or Renovations?

New Buildin Then call your Local Tel: 01805 624665 Mob: 07812 067199 T Friendly Builder

Te Mo

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

Tarka Valley Railway News

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ctober was another busy month for our volunteers and it is encouraging to see more new faces on site. There are usually around fifteen members on working days, but as our ‘to do list’ increases, more help is needed. Please see us on Thursdays to find out how you can help.

The sealed flange level crossing has now been delivered and installation is planned before the end of the month. Concrete sleepers were changed and the track beds have been filled in to sleeper top level in preparation.

Elsewhere, restoration activities have continued on our two locos: the brake van and TSO carriage and vegetation clearance seems to be a never ending task around the site of the old signal box.

Finally, we have just been notified of the money raised through the Co-op Local Community Fund. An amazing sum of £2770.18 has been raised. Grateful thanks to everyone who chose the Railway as their local cause.

As always, do please visit our Facebook page for weekly updates and the website has useful information on our railway www.tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk.

Rob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway We are a small and friendly Jewellery shop run by a mother and daughter team. We specialise in finding interesting and unusual jewellery. Stockists of Henryka Amber, Shrieking Violet and Fiorello Silver, plus a wide variety of other silver and gold pieces. If you cannot find what you want in the shop we will endeavour to find it for you.

You will always get a high standard of customer service. The perfect place to find something special for that special someone! Also available online at www.thejewelinthetown.co.uk.

Kitch’n’Cupboard Unit 2 In our four years of trading, the business has evolved to reflect the

needs of our customers and we stock a wide range of unique and unusual gifts and home decor items.

New in for Christmas we have a fabulous range of natural toiletries, sumptuous velvet accessories, country inspired homewares and seriously cute seasonal decorations.

Crafty Needles - Unit 1 Sue Shrubsole stocks a huge range of wools, fabrics and haberdashery items.

Everything you could possibly need for those festive decorations and handmade gifts. Don’t miss Sue’s fabulous creative window displays, full of inspiration for every season and occasion.

The Chamber of Trade would like to wish you all a very merry festive season.

Don’t forget SHOP LOCAL!

Torrington RFC

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Torrington Silver Band Fundraising for Children in Need

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n Saturday 13th October Torrington Silver Band were pleased to host a special concert at Howe Concert Hall to raise money for Children In Need. A great night was had by all and it was well supported by the town. We also had a Pudsey Bear cake sale in the interval, and a duck race organised by the junior members of the band and drums. Big thanks to Lorraine at Happy Cakes St Giles, for donating a very delicious cake for the cake sale.

We are delighted to announce that the total profit raised on the evening was £556.20, a fantastic result! Thank you to everyone that came along and supported the evening and to everyone that helped out to make it possible.

We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the local businesses that have supported our events throughout the year, and to wish them and all of our valued supporters a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Torrington Silver Band

his will be the only opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, although it is only early December! Thank you all for your continued support and long may it continue.

Picking up where we left off in the last report, our 1st XV were due to travel to New Cross for the anticipated return match in the Devon Junior Cup game. Sadly, New Cross couldn’t provide enough front row players to satisfy the rules and had to forfeit the game to us. This does mean that by the time you read this, we will have played the quarter finals of the competition against Old Techs; hopefully we will have rectified our loss to them only two weeks before.

Our 1st XV league games are providing a mixed bag of results. Old Plymouth & Mannamedians paid us a visit and in an excellent game Torrington came out worthy winners 50-22.

We then travelled down to Plymouth to play Old Technicians, in what we hoped was going to be a follow on in form. However several key absentees, coupled with a high injury tally, doomed us to defeat, eventually losing 10-43.

Plymouth came visiting again on 3rd November in the shape of Tamar Saracens. In a hotly contested game in windy conditions Torrington came out with a well-earned victory 28-12; putting us, at the time of writing, in a very healthy 5th position in the league.

Our next 1st XV league game will be the journey to Totnes on 1st December.

Buckfastleigh Ramblers travel to Donnacroft on the 8th December and then we are off to Dartmouth for the last game of the year. Hopefully our winning streak will continue.

Our 2nd XV have had a very erratic period, as we have had to cancel games to provide players to cover for injuries in the 1st XV. Tiverton 3rds came to Donnacroft, and a close game saw Tiverton come out on top by the fairly narrow margin 17-25.

In other activities November 3rd saw the annual bonfire and firework display arranged by The Torrington Cavaliers. One of the biggest bonfires for a few years was lit with great ceremony by the current May Queen. Due to the brisk wind it didn’t take long to be burning ferociously and then followed an awesome firework display, culminating in a spectacular burst of sparks that lit the sky, coupled with a huge boom that left ears ringing. A well-deserved round of applause showed the appreciation of the many hundreds that had braved the weather conditions. Well done to all those paying public that attended, swelling the Cavaliers’ coffers for charitable causes. The Rugby Clubhouse was open serving beverages, as well as hot pork baps and sausages in rolls. This was also well supported, helping with club funds.

As always our clubhouse is available for hire. Please contact a committee member on match days or give me a call 07799 401 704.

Mark Waterson Respect, Discipline, Teamwork, Sportsmanship & Enjoyment

27

TORRIDGE COMMUNITY MINIBUS SERVICES

K. Sheppard

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: Shirley Davies 07776 414740

Plasterer

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

01805 603016

Great Torrington School During the Second World War Part Two

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07813 257 471

o help food supplies during the called up for military duty, including Mr kindly Headmaster the school has not Second World War, potatoes Pearse the caretaker. Women teachers only been established but has in the were planted in the school were allowed days off if their husbands national emergency made a definite garden and at the end of the football were home on leave. Staff that had contribution to educational progress in a pitch. Thirty chicks were put in the come from London with the evacuees rural area and has played a prominent garden shed in March 1940, and poultry were often called away because and successful part in the evacuation houses were set up in April. On 9th relatives had died or their houses were scheme’.

October 1940 ‘Mr Popham gave the destroyed. Other teachers obtained On 16th April 1945 the school school a swarm of bees and installed jobs elsewhere. By 22nd April 1941, Mr reopened after the Easter holiday with them’.

Nancekievill notes in the Log Book that the new name of Great Torrington In the summer holidays the school ‘62 teachers have done duty in this Modern Secondary School. On 8th and was unofficially opened for the 9th May the school was closed voluntary attendance of children ‘for Celebration of Victory over “In the summer holidays the school was engaged on work of National unofficially opened for the voluntary attendance the Germans’ and reopened on th Service, which consisted of of children engaged on work of National Service, the 10 with a ‘Special opening gardening, salvage of paper Service for Victory’. Following which consisted of gardening, salvage of paper and iron, stripping tin at the milk this were entries about the and iron, stripping tin at the milk factory, factory, mending and making results of football matches mending and making clothes, and fixing lace on against local teams. clothes, and fixing lace on the the school windows for air raid protection.” school windows for air raid Mr Nancekievill’s final entry protection. Staff took it in turns is on 29th April 1946. The next to be on duty, and were only excused if School since the opening’. entry isn’t until February 1950 when a they were occupied with work of national On 19th November 1941 there is an Mr Hinchley writes, ‘Commenced duties importance. Groups of boys were entry reading, ‘Attended the birching as Headmaster of this school’. employed ‘potato dropping’ in the locality of Hunter and Heath at the Police Moira Brewer in March, and ‘potato picking’ in October. Station.’ Mr Browning, headmaster of Doctors and nurses regularly visited the Croydon school where some of the the school for nutrition surveys, evacuees had come from, was also The Rotary Club of psychiatric tests, examinations for present so perhaps it was evacuees Torrington cleanliness (sometimes children had to rather than local lads who were being be re-examined or were sent home), punished.

Food Bank Street Collection inoculation against diphtheria, eye tests The school was inspected in February n Saturday 15th December we and dental inspection and treatment.

1944 by HMI Arnold Platts. He writes: are holding a street collection On 24th May 1940, the school held ‘The building is perhaps the best of in aid of the Great Torrington ‘a Special Service in Commemoration its kind in the county and much hard Community Food Bank. The collection of Empire Day. Children contributed work has been carried out to put it to will be in the Square from 9am to 2pm the sum of £2 7s 9d to the Over-Seas good use, whilst the land for gardening and we also invite donations of food League Tobacco Fund’. has been put into production. Under items and provisions.

Several male members of staff were an enterprising, painstaking and

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28

Commons Conservators – Good News for the Torridge!

This month we can report good news for the River Torridge on the Commons. I feel that we can raise hopes for the future of life in our river.

Since the Conservators joined ‘Fish Legal’, the pollution fighting body, we have developed a much better working relationship with South West Water.

They have embarked on a course of much-needed improvements to the sewage and drainage systems locally.

The main sewer from ‘Ladywash’ to the sewage works has been rodded, cleared of debris and tree roots, a special camera has inspected the interior of the pipe and the damaged sections have been re-lined. South West Water also has a programme in progress for relieving stress on the CSOs (combined sewage overflows). This antiquated type of sewage system has been at the root of past pollution problems.

Last year we recorded 17 pollution incidents on the Commons. So far this year there have been none. We appear to be safe unless more houses are built, as the pipes are already at maximum capacity.

Positive news is that salmon can be seen attempting to jump Beam Weir. The heron and otter have been waiting! I had a chance meeting with Elaine Sullivan and her husband, who had taken some great pictures. Very kindly, they sent some to me and these are now on Torrington’s Facebook page. Our river appears, at last, to be on the mend.

The season ended on 30th September and re-opens on March 1st 2019.

Alan Crawley - Fishery Warden

Commons Conservators - Calling All Dog Owners!

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ur group of volunteers continues to pick up litter and do all they can to make our wonderful Commons enjoyable for all. Sadly, the ever present blot on the landscape is dog poo! It has become a major problem which is spoiling otherwise pleasant walks on the Commons.

Whilst most of you clean up after your dogs, we need ALL dog owners to do it.

Please either ‘bag it and bin it’ or take the approach encouraged by many other public open spaces now, ‘scoop the poop’ and flick it into the undergrowth where nature will break it down naturally.

So a big ‘thank you’ to all considerate dog owners. For those who are letting the side down - please take responsibility for your dog now, and do the right thing for Torrington.

Friends of the Commons

Santas on the Run Comes to RHS Garden Rosemoor

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rganised by local charity, Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), Santas on the Run is a 2k sponsored fun run being held for the first time at the RHS Garden Rosemoor and is the perfect way to start the festive season.

Santas on the Run takes place on Sunday 9th December and is suitable for all ages and abilities. Participants can choose to run, jog or walk the route whilst dressed in a red Santa suit which is provided as part of your registration.

Money raised in sponsorship by those taking part will go towards the care and support offered to local children and families by CHSW, at its three children’s hospices including Little Bridge House in Fremington. At Little Bridge House families can take a short break away from home to re-charge their batteries in a homely, warm and welcoming environment. It allows families to take a much-needed break from the ongoing strains of caring for their children at home.

To sign up visit www.chsw.org.uk/ santasrosemoor or join the Facebook event at www.facebook.com/ events/286259165522937.

Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator Fully qualified tradesman

• Interior and exterior painting • Paper hanging • No job too big or too small For a friendly reliable service from a local tradesman ring:

T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

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What is the Care Forum?

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he Care Forum is a networking group for those working in health, welfare, caring or pastoral areas - either on a voluntary or paid basis. We meet monthly to discuss current issues and exchange ideas to see how we can best work together for the benefit of our community. The following are a couple of areas that have recently been discussed within the Care Forum.

The Veterans Charity The charity was founded in 2008 and provides immediate assistance to veterans who face hardship and distress.

They provide vital support and assist with food supplies, clothing, household goods and even mobile phones to aid communication.

Adjustment to civilian life is often difficult for veterans and their families.

After years in a disciplined environment where everything is provided by the military, dealing with everyday matters such as payment of rent, shopping for food and buying domestic items can be very stressful, and it may be difficult to know when it’s time to seek help and advice.

If you are a veteran who is facing hardship, or you are concerned about a veteran - contact the charity for information and advice on 01271 859211, email contact@veteranscharity.org.uk.

Torrage - Ageing Well For The Over 60s Ageing Well aims to support the health and wellbeing of older people in North Devon. We offer a range of services including : * Befriending via home visits or weekly telephone calls

British Native Wild Flowers to Grow in Your Garden Persicaria bistorta

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might be in for some criticism by recommending this attractive little plant because it can be invasive. It is, after all, a member of the dock and knotweed family! However, it has a great deal to offer gardeners who want plants that don’t require too much maintenance.

Persicaria bistorta is known by its species name Bistort but in Northern England it is often called Easter Ledges and was used to flavour puddings during early spring. Therefore, it is very common in the north, often found growing around villages and farmhouses.

It is a hardy, leafy perennial and spreads via stout, contorted rhizomes, hence its invasive potential. Bistort is most recognised by its spikes of massed, pink flowers that reach a height of about 50cm at most (20 inches) so makes ideal ground cover. The flowering period is from June to August but often Bistort will flower well into autumn.

In the wild, Bistort prefers damp meadows with lime-poor soils, so grows very well down in the South West, but it is a popular cottage garden flower in its own right and there are a number of cultivars available, notably P. ‘Superbum’ with bolder pink flower spikes.

The best way to cultivate Bistort is by division of the rhizomes, either during early autumn or spring when growth is still apparent. Pot up and over-winter in a cold frame.

Fleur * Help at Home service offering help with cleaning, laundry and shopping plus a sitting service to provide respite for carers. * Singing for Health (Wednesdays) Tai Chi (Thursdays) at Torrington Community Hospital * Fitness with Friends - gentle exercise to improve balance and general fitness - followed by a chat with friends over a cuppa (Mondays Castle Community

Services include: House sitting • Dog walking • Equine care • Emergency cover Contact Isabel on: Tel: 07989 995935 30

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

Centre) For more information on all of the services on offer please call 01805 622666 or visit the website www.torrage. org.uk. If you represent a group that shares our aims and would like to join us, our contact details are below.

Chair - Sandra Crawley - sandra.guard@ me.com Secretary - Judith Nock judithnock@ btinternet.com.

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Drain clearing CCTV surveys Repairs/Relining Septic Tank and Treatment plant installation

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Torrington Memory Café

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Enjoy Rambling This Christmas!

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he North Devon Ramblers would like to invite anyone t the Sarah * News * November Events meeting * Clubs * Announcements * News * Events * Clubs * Announcements * and everyone to join them for one of their six FREE

Jane ran a craft session making Christmas decorations.

The December meeting will be our Xmas lunch, on 13th December at the Torrington Arms.

The dates for the next meetings in 2019 are:th Thursdayto 10the January Welcome new Parish News th Thursday 14 February section of Theth Crier.

We have Thursdayfunding 14 March received from Devon Just a reminder thatTorridge you can District access County Council and aCouncil lot of information on our website at in conjunction with Beaford www.greattorringtonmemorycafe.org. and Little Torrington Parish ukCouncils, There are links to us other sites which to enable to provide people with dementia andany theirnews carers this space.

Please send might find useful. to torrington.crier@gmail.com, call People603152 who attend theinCafé are from 01805 or drop to the thank you.of varying ages. allLibrary, walks of life and Some people may have had a recent diagnosis of dementia, whilst others BEAFORD may be worried about their memory New Toddler Group and want advice. People Caterpillars the name of a new who attend findisthat groupcontinue meetingtobetween they come 9.30-11.30am on Tuesdays in the along and value the Village Hall kitchen.

After dropping off your children cafe for its welcoming, at school why not come along with preinformal and relaxed school children, atmosphere.

Thegrandma Café and even uncle a forlistening a cuppaear andand a chat. The offers group, organised by Clare Heard and a couple of hours break from regular Shelly Nymmo, is open to everyone routines. and costs £1.50 per family.

If you or a family member is affected by memorySale loss, then do come along Jumble and for a warm welcome from everyone Beaford Village Hall committee, at the Café, well asand getting support along with StasGeorge All Saints and information.

Parochial Church Council will be For further information please holding one of their ever then popular jumble sales in the hall on625969.

11th May. contact Pauline on 01805

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‘Festival’ walks New Year: from Hall and It’s time to spring cleanover the Christmas cupboardsand the Church, the Village three to eight miles, help from raise Braunton Fleming and and let any jumble fundstoinBrattonChurchyard.

Mortehoe tothe Arlington. even have free coffee and mince support of hall andWe church. FRITHELSTOCKSTONE piesThe after our Braunton walk sale will start at 2pm on andthe the27th December.

New Shelter Groupselection Chairman, Joan Long said, “For thirty yearsBus Ramblers usual of delicious homehas hosted a Winter Walking Festival. made cakes and refreshments will beDuring that Ontime Tuesday 26th March 2013, the Ramblers throughout the UK have welcomed hundreds available groups throughout. bus shelter that Frithelstockstone has of thousands of people out into the countryside, to enjoy walksfor many decades, patiently awaited Annual Parish Meeting was realise finally installed. led by expert local volunteers.” Joan added, “We that Thepeople annualfind parish meeting bedifficult time Itswhen provision some Christmas to will be a they has been made possible th May at 7pm in the held on Monday 13 bytokind donations from Councillor Sam feel isolated and lonely and wish only to return ‘normality’. village hall. Village organisations have (Devon We would like to extend a special invitation toRobinson anyone who is County Council) and been invited to attend and participate Philip on their own to join us for a walk. Everyone isCouncillor very friendly andPennington (Torridge in the meeting. The parish council will District“Do Council), bothRamblers of whom Festival you will receive a warm welcome” Joan concluded, make our present the latest information on phase contributed from their allocation a3time to take your first steps towards a new beginning, whilst benefitting fromofthe of the parish local plan.

Parishioners Locality Funds. physical well-being walking brings.” will haveand an mental opportunity to offerthat their The shelter was supplied and 4 * views Saturday 22/12/18 Barnstaple Bus Station.

Stand L Bus No. 303 10:50am on the plan. erected by GoShelters of Southport, miles Lancashire.

Social Bridge Group Bus arrives Fortescue Arms Mortehoe 11:25. Linear walk along old railway line a number of people who via There Slade are reservoirs to Ilfracombe. (coffee stop only). Easy pace and hard surface HUNTSHAW are interested in starting a social walking.

Fundraising Lunch group and willBraunton welcome others * bridge Thursday 27/12/18 Overflow Car-park. Caenth Street. 10:30am 3 miles Sunday 12 May - Fundraising two with a similar interest.

If anybody Buckland WoodsBraunton back streets easycourse pace. lunch Tea, coffee, mince at finish and coffee forpies Huntshaw like to join, it doesn't matter atwould Braunton Countryside Centre.

Parish Church at Jenny Staines' Pound are a Baggy total beginner or a * whether Sunday you 30/12/18 Point National Trust Pay & Display Car-park.10am House Barn, Huntshaw,Torrington, experienced player, come along 8more miles.

Croyde beach-Down EndSWCP to EX38 Saunton Court.

Hannaburrow Lane 7HH at 12.30pm. Ticket entry join the group.option Please contact Ian On to Putsborough toand Croyde.

Shorter to peel off here. then back to Baggy only £12. Telephone 01805 624490 or Joan Lovell on 01805 603256.

Point. asap as limited places. * Monday 31/12/18 Bratton Fleming Millennium Car-park.10am 8 miles BUCKLAND BREWER MERTON Acircular route over fields, paths, lanes, and  woods A chance to view migrant birds Plant Sale Vintage & Classic Vehicle on Wistlandpound reservoir. * Wednesday 2/1/19 Arlington Court National Trust & Display 10:30am 3.5 Plant sale on Saturday 11th May from Rally &Pay Summer Fayre th miles.

Fields and to Arlington Becott-Barton Court.

Easy pace with one short 10am–3pm andWoods Sunday 12th May Sunday 5 May 2013 11am–5pm 11am –3pm on the Village Green up.

Come along to this great family day * Safari Saturday 5/1/19 Woody Bay Lower Car-park.11am 6 miles.

Woody Bay-Hunters Lunch out with lots going on for everyone, a Inn On on SWCP. onfrom carriage road. Superb coastal SundayReturn 12th May 12.30pm perfect wayviews. to end May Fair Week! information 01271 376 274 or£1, Angela 07720 atFor thefurther Methodist Chapel,contact tickets either £7 Joan on Entrance: £2, U16’s U5s on free.

203 737 or visit our website at www.ramblers.org.uk/north-devon. from Enid Booth (01237 451655) with Find us on the A386 between proceeds for the Methodist and Parish Torrington and Hatherleigh. EX20

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Torrington in Bloom Best Garden Competition Results

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n the 24th October, we held our prize giving evening at the Torrington Arms and a good time was had by all. Before I actually announce the winners, I would like to thank the Landlord, Roger, and his staff for looking after us so well; to Ann Bacon for supplying some delicious cakes; to Paul and Liz Watson for running the raffle and also to all who kindly donated some lovely prizes.

Thanks are also extended to Di Davey, the Mayor, for presenting the main prizes and to Sarah Chesters our judge, and to Jan Welch who presented the Tony Welch award for the ‘Best in Show’ garden.

The winners are: Best display by a shop, retail or otherwise: Dartington Crystal Best display by a public house, club or B&B: Conservative Club Best individual display no front garden ie, baskets, etc: Conservative Club Best community group: Pannier Market shops and flowerbed Best large garden: Barry Sussex, 38 Dartington Fields Best small garden: Conservative Club Young gardener of the year: Arthur Drayton, 26a Town Park The Tony Welch Award was won by Barry Sussex for his magnificent display of hanging baskets, mass bedding and perennial planting.

Well done to our winners and to all who entered – onwards and upwards!

May I wish all of you a very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year – now’s the time to snuggle down on the sofa with your gardening catalogues and start dreaming about next year’s planting scheme!

Cherry Hammon, Chair Torrington in Bloom Association, 01805 625788

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity Supporting Local Projects

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you.

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he Trustees recently awarded a grant to Little Frogs Pre-School to assist with a project. The completed project is a summerhouse to provide a quiet work space for children and we are delighted to share some photos with

Murder Mystery!

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o magnifying glasses were needed for the 60-or-so sleuths - divided into teams of four – who came to the Black Horse on the 14th October for the Friends of Torrington Library’s Murder Mystery afternoon.

Thanks to author Ann Cleeves, who wrote ‘Bannocks and Blood’ the groundwork had been done for them, so that all the intrepid detectives had to do was listen to the witness statements of the four characters read by members of the Torrington Players, Jo and Lydia Fallaize, Colin Mackie and Lewis Holt, and work out ‘whodunit’.

The teams put Ann’s character Jimmy Perez to shame, as several worked out who murdered Annie Laurenson at the Shetland Sunday tea, but only one identified the real motive behind her murder.

Ann Cleeves donated a signed copy of her latest book ‘Wild Fire’ to the raffle, and the afternoon raised £250 for library funds.

Friends of Great Torrington Library

New Sensory Room at Little Frogs Pre School

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e gratefully received a grant from the Torrington Alms Trust, towards the construction of our new sensory room; the Trustees from the Alms Trust came and opened the lovely new space in September. The children will use this space for quiet and sensory work. We are continually fundraising to purchase new specialist resources for the Preschool. We have also been successful with the Coop local Community Fund, so please nominate Little Frogs PreSchool by going online at coop.co.uk/ membership and make us your cause, and your contributions will be used towards the sensory room equipment.

Little Frogs Pre-School is registered for Early Years Funding for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. If you would like to have a look around or register your child, please call Tracey on 01805 622747 or download an application form at www. littlefrogspreschool.co.uk.

Little Torrington WI Report

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ittle Torrington WI continue to meet monthly in the Victory Hall, Little Torrington and our members’ meetings are well attended.

In October, David Squires gave a really interesting talk about pruning. We all came away knowing how to prune and why we should do it. In November we have Rebecca Jeffrey introducing us to Andigwa Dance, and in December we shall be getting festive with ringing hand bells.

The Little Torrington WI meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in the Victory Hall at Little Torrington.

If you are interested in coming along you will be most welcome. For more information speak to our President, Lyn Wharton on 01805 603052.

Abbeyfield

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esidents enjoyed a Christmas shopping trip to Merry Harriers at Woolsery, and an informative talk about the Torrington/Roscoff Exchange group, in November.

Our Christmas Coffee Morning will be on Friday 7th December at Glen Tor, Villa Road from 10.30am-12pm. There will be coffee and mince pies, stalls and a raffle. You are all welcome. Come and see what a warm and friendly group we are!

Residents are looking forward to the Christmas meal with the staff and volunteers at The Royal, in Bideford; the pantomime, Peter Pan in Barnstaple and other outings, before the Christmas and New Year festivities in the house.

We have a ground floor room vacant at Glen Tor, and if you are interested in finding out more for yourself or a loved one, please give our house manager a call on 01805 623605 to arrange a visit.

Devon Army Cadet’s Visit The Somme to Mark Armistice 100

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he Army Cadet Force (ACF) Armistice 2018 initiative is the largest single activity they have ever undertaken in the UK. During October half term, 19th- 29th approximately 4000 Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAV’s) travelled to France from across the UK to visit the World War 1 battlefields of the Somme.

The event was educational as well as one of respect and remembrance.

The visit explored the different causes of war (militarism, alliances, imperialism and nationalism); technology (tanks, aircraft, communication and medical) and tactics (tunnelling, artillery, trench warfare, cavalry, animals).

During the visit, 88 Cadets and CFAV’s from Devon ACF visited the following battlefield sights: Lochnager; Delville Woods; Fricourt and Thiepval.

Devon ACF also visited The Devonshire trench to remember the sacrifice that the regiment made during WW1. Cadet Sophie Daly aged 14 from All Saints Detachment, B Company (Plymouth) laid a wreath in remembrance of the brave men who defended the trench. On the memorial it has the engraved message, “The Devonshire’s held this trench, The Devonshire’s hold it still”. Cadet Daly said, “I feel very honoured and privileged to have had the opportunity to lay the wreath”.

Prior to the visit Cadet Lance Corporal Jack Pledger from Great Torrington detachment, C Company (N Devon) had the opportunity to research his family tree and discovered that his Great, Great, Grandad was in the Gloucestershire Regiment and fought at the Somme. In 1915 he was awarded the Star Medal, The British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his efforts. In addition, Jack’s second cousin, five times removed, Herbert Herd also fought in the Battle of the Somme. Herbert unfortunately passed away during the four-day battle of Guillemot. His body was never found and there is no Commonwealth Graves Commission grave for him, but his name is on the memorial of the missing soldiers at the Thiepval Memorial.

Battlefield tours are just one unique and fantastic opportunity open to members of the Army Cadet Force. We have detachments all across Devon for young people aged between 12-18 years of age. If you’re interested in joining please contact us on 01392 256251; email: wx-dev-ao@rfca.org.uk or alternatively visit www. armycadets.com/find-a-detachment/.

33

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Woodburning Stoves – Things Youseen.

MayRoe Notdeer Know! seem

O

ver the last 30 years in this business one of the things I get asked the most is “Will the stove run through the night if I shut it down?”. This sentence always gives me News a cold chill.Common You will always The findOn at least one Common person who we have identified overtheir 300firespecies of wild has slumbered flowers.

There mustyears be some that we every night for many havenever missed, but due to their and had a problem. prominence flowering, the list It is the same when as hearing a must besay fairly smoker thecomplete. same thing The Tree Trail contains 52 kinds about smoking but, we all of native trees and we have 21 know the overwhelming evidence is that it is aon bad introduced species other parts of thing do.

The toCommon.

We know of 40 Most people run the different grasses, 11firesedges, nine correctly when areWe do however rushes and 15they ferns. in the room, fire limited burns knowledge have much the more steadily and all is good.

The moment about other types of plant.

A list and you shut and gobut to any guide to down fungithe is stove underway, bed the fire isinformation suddenly starved of be additional would oxygen. fuelinbed is still hot such and as welcomeThe – as other areas the amount of flammable gasses mosses, liverworts and lichens. does not Our decrease.

These gasses cannot diversity burn and without the of butterflies is air flow they also struggle to go up the chimney. The well known, with result gradually cool down and 30 is they species condense described.inside the chimney to form a tar deposit. Repeated slumbering just Especially increases build up until either welcome the aretarthe the chimney blocks Fritillaries, but the or you have a chimney fire. Sweeping, generally, will High Brown has not tar buildfor up as has not remove been the recorded tenit isyears. the consistency hard toffee. thisgo, Eighty kinds ofofbirds come In and case only heat or the use of chemicals and as with national trends, some of will break it down.

If you have a lined these are becoming more rarely chimney it is relatively easy to get it hot enough to break it down if it has not built

to be thriving up too excessively. you don’t have amongst our 18 Ifmammals, but athe liner you willofnever it hotinenough to success the get adder our four break it down, withpopular the exception a reptiles is not with of some. fire. meetings with Apart fromchimney occasional Another thing to consider wasp nests, we know little about our is the reduced efficiency. insect population together with other Many modern stoves are invertebrates,. easily capable ofwould efficiencies Especially interesting be a excess of 80% when survey ofinour ponds andbut, streams, this drops to this wouldslumbering, also provide information around 30% due to the regarding water quality and pollution. amount of unburnt fuelSchool going I know that Torrington Junior up the chimney. pupils used to regularly go stream Sinceschools the introduction of dipping. Other must have the compulsory of the used the fine habitats to fitting explore monoxide ecology ofcarbon the area.

Canalarms, we have we haveplease? noticed another your discoveries dangerous side effect of Michael Collingham

slumbering. If the flue gasses get cooler than the room temperature the gasses reverse flow down the chimney into the room.

This then triggers the carbon monoxide alarm, usually in the early hours of the morning. Even if you don’t slumber the fire, the use of unseasoned wood Amateur Athletic Club’s hasTorrington a similar affect.

A moisture content Race on ofannual betweenChristmas 10% and toCaper 20% being December startsby at Sunday 18thToo about ideal. dry, often2011, achieved 11am. the Registration at 9.30am keeping logs in thebegins greenhouse, the a t burns T o r r ilike n g Acetylene. t o n R u gVaporising

by Club wood See for further the fire torringtonaac.org bricks and burning holes baffle in less than a year. details. the through The exception being if your stove has a Together Again boiler, in this instance, you cannot have It’s that time of the year again the wood too dry, the intense heat being For you to remember easily subdued by the water jacket.

“Torrington Together” Mark Broadhead On the 7thKenwyn of December Stove & Chimney Ltd 07854 799 610

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What a Team Effort It sounds a long way off But please a diary note Thank Youmake Torrington!

A

To come and share theinthings we do nyone involved fundraising The imaginative will know tote that it’s impossible to of all the town’s societies raise money without the help their commitment for their roles and and goodwill of so many people, Parkinson’s, and caringto everyone I am immensely grateful Alarms in and goals involved theFootball success of The Mayor’s Golf and Exhibitions Christmas Fair, which was hosted by Societies for youth John and Jane Hutchins and family at And many more,Hire all so Torrington Cycle on worthwhile Sunday 4th Truly I say, forsooth November. At the time of writing, we 7 for 7.30 have collectively raised over £1,000 Wednesday, December 7 (more donations coming in).

Torridge Vale Social Club Special thanks to everyone Enjoy a bit of local heaven. who helped promote the event: Bond Oxborough VJT Phillips, Halifax, Webbers, Simon and Jo Matthews, Abbi Copp, Ewa and Isobella, Remembrance The Crier,In Torrington Facebook page and Lord Ponsonby absolute everyone who posted was flyers an around town. tartar who made his servants live an Thanks also for donations to help with absolute dog's life. His harshest the setup of the event: the Plough Arts treatment was reserved for his faithful Centre, Honeywood Orchard, The Co-op butler Whibble. It was “Whibble get my and Torrington Marks &get Spencer. boots off!” “Whibble, me a whisky!''

There are too many people to thank Whibble this and Whibble that, all day individually their draw long. Oneforevening his prizes; lordshipI was came overwhelmed with theafter generosity of so home from his club a particularly many people. lavishkind dinner and barked, “Whibble, run And finally, thanks to all me a bath!”aInbigdue course heour slipped helpers on the I hope youFeeling had asthe gently into theday, soapy water. much fun as I did. after-effects of his dinner, he passed My next event will be of for an wind in afundraising manner reminiscent North Devongeyser Against and Domestic Abuse fell Icelandic promptly sleep.

Just thenSociety, the door open and the Dementia thisburst will be there quality Whibble stood,jewellery, to attention, aand pre-loved clothes, with aetc. hot water Lordship shoes sale at mybottle. homeHis in Well exploded, “Get out man, I didn't Garden in January or February, any ring and I don't want you, go away”. beg donations gratefully accepted in the“INew to differ sir, my hearing is perfect.

Year. Watch the Crier for more details. I distinctly heard you say, Anne what Tattersall about a

Apologies if I forgot to mention anyone!

WHISKERS PET CENTRE

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Large stock of pet foods Nutro, Wellbeloved, Beta Bakers etc. Wild Bird seeds and nuts.

Lots of posh & normal wellies in all sizes

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17

Torrington Gardening Society

W

e would like to wish all Crier readers a very Happy Christmas and a slug-free

H

o, Ho, Ho – Freddie here getting in the Christmas spirit early!

Can you believe it but I have been here at K9Focus for a whole year now! I do love it but would still love to find that very special home all of my own – although I will need a very understanding and experienced one!

Anyway I am happy in my kennel at the present time, and so looking forward to all the great things that are happening this month. Apparently Aunty Lynne says that lots of nice people are asking to send me presents – hopefully this will be food! If you would like to send me a little Christmas gift then please email Aunty Lynne at lynne@k9focus.co.uk and she will send you our address.

I am going to be helping put our Christmas tree up, on which everyone is invited to put a bauble in memory of their dog, past and present, and if you email a picture I will also put their picture on our website.

Unfortunately Star the rough collie is still with us. He did go to a lovely home but sadly, because of his background, he was terrified of living in a house and wouldn’t settle. He is a great dog outside, and loves people and other dogs, and so he just needs somewhere that has

an outside kennel and the patience to groom his beautiful coat every day. He is quite a loving dog once he realises that no one is going to hurt him, and is fantastic to walk. We also have two new dogs coming in: Tilly a Rotti and Lexi a JRT, who are both looking for their forever homes – check them out on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ K9focus.

I know I always say this at this time of year, but please do remember that with all the presents and goodies around, much of the food that you all love to eat we do too, except that it is poisonous for us woofs: chocolate, mince pies, grapes, macadamia nuts. We also can get stressed with all the excitement and so it might be an idea to make a little den somewhere for us to escape to.

As always, funds are tight coming to the end of the year and so we will be having a Christmas Auction starting on 1st December, so do visit our Facebook page as there are some really nice items which will make fantastic Christmas presents!

As always, our volunteers have been working really hard and often give their time up to take me out and about to meet people. As a rescue we have no employed staff and are run entirely by volunteers who give their time freely. In 2015 we won a National Award as

New Year.

We are rounding off our year with a Christmas Lunch at the Torrington Golf Club and we start 2019 on Tuesday 5th February at 7.30pm at the Methodist Hall. In the meantime we shall be defending the club at the Fremington Club Quiz, and planting up tulip bulbs for the spring display in the flowerbed

by S&G Carpets. In February there will be a speaker, and all are welcome. For more information contact me on 01805 623152 Sally Ramsden Hon Chair ‘Charity Team of the Year’ which was quite amazing considering we were chosen from over 5000 entries. A fantastic recognition for our volunteers, who really are unsung heroes. To win it once was brilliant but to win it twice would be amazing, so if you do have a couple of minutes it would be great if you could nominate our team again. The link is below, but if you would prefer a paper version please ring or email Aunty Lynne.

This would mean so much to us all. www. petplan.co.uk/about-petplan/charities/ awards/ Have a fantastic Christmas and New Year and I will be back with you in February. In the meantime, if you are missing me, why not pop out to see me, just ring Aunty Lynne on 07971 461 806 to arrange.

Woofs & licks as always Freddie signing off for 2018

Wayne Rowtcliff Plumbing & Heating services Bathrooms-kitchens-Tiling Bathroom Specialist Free estimates

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35

Fleur’s Gardening Forum What Gardeners Want for Christmas

W

hat would we gardeners like Santa to leave us for Christmas? Perhaps just enough frost to kill off all the nasty bugs and diseases, just enough rain (preferably overnight) so we don’t have to water, and plenty of warm sunshine in spring and summer to ripen our crops and encourage lots of lovely flowers. Dream on, I hear you say!

So, what gift will please the keen gardener in your family this year?

Clothing is always welcome. How about a pair of gloves that are waterproof, thornproof and fit? Or waterproof trousers – an excellent choice, especially those with built-in knee-pads, and which are fleece-lined.

Warm socks to wear with Wellingtons for the allotmenteer are another option.

Pruning saws are jolly useful and cut on the ‘pull’ so less effort is required.

Most fold up neatly and fit into your coat pocket.

Shears, loppers and secateurs come in all shapes and sizes, the best are those which have ‘bypass’ blades, not anvil blades. Bypass blades make a cleaner, neater cut. However, the best gadget you can buy to accompany such tools is a decent blade sharpener For that extra special present, try a garden shredder. These are a real boon, because the shreddings compost much quicker and, when dried, can be used to line a path.

For the really keen grower, a compost steriliser is ideal, the heat generated will kill just about all pathogens and most seeds in your own compost and the resulting soil can be used for potting on mature plants, once mixed with a little fertiliser.

Spades and forks now come with longer handles, which saves your back, so look out for those.

Hand trowels and forks are very welcome, since they can easily be ‘lost’ somewhere in the garden – I have seen some with easy grip handles and often the blades are marked with the correct depths for planting bulbs.

For those of us who love houseplants, then a good buy would be mini-hand forks and trowels; these are really useful, even for pots in the garden!

They are excellent for scraping out soil and clearing out weeds.

I have almost run out of space and haven’t even touched on lawn-mowers, edging tools or pretty flowerpots, let alone gardening books, and what about a year’s subscription to the RHS? Or tickets to one of the RHS’s major flower shows?

Merry Christmas from Fleur

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

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36

Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival

C

hristmas and New Year will soon be upon us and after that we will be in that delicious run up to our May Fair and Carnival festivities. This month sees the beginning of the behindthe-scenes preparations for the Carnival Queen and her attendants; GTS pupils will be able to apply in January through the school.

We are so lucky to live in a community where all these old traditions have been kept going; it takes local people getting involved and taking on all those things that need doing, big and small, in order for us all to enjoy May Fair, Round the Tree Race and Carnival. Thank you to all those who do step up, your time and hard work are much appreciated, but we do need more volunteers, particularly if these festivities are to continue so that future generations can enjoy them. Interested? Get in touch with us through our Facebook page or by email: gill61clayton@gmail.com Secretary of the May Fair & Carnival Committee

Let’s Talk Torrington Support

T

he group Let’s Talk Torrington takes place every Tuesday at 12-2pm and is run by two qualified counsellors. Our aim is to support people living with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety or loneliness and to help them towards a happier and healthier future.

For more details please telephone Clarity on 01271 267474 or email clarity.northdevon@yahoo.co.uk.

Making Tax Digital - Just Another Digital Move or More Than That?

M

y career in accountancy started in 1987, at that time almost everything we did was paper based, the only computer in the office was for time and fees and had its own room!

Accounts were prepared manually, typed out on word processors and everything checked by hand before it left the building.

The change since 1987 has been

“So, is the Government’s move to introduce Making Tax Digital (MTD) just another technology driven change that we will all take in our stride or is it more than that?” nothing short of amazing, especially in the world of technology and the effect it has had on our business and our clients. The changes though, have been gradual, with the widespread introduction and accessibility of the internet, mobile technology and their effect on business practices.

As accountants, we have always adapted to adopt these changes and indeed take advantage of them.

So, is the Government’s move to introduce Making Tax Digital (MTD) just another technology driven change that we will all take in our stride or is it more than that?

In my view, MTD represents one of the biggest changes in my career, and it is not the use of technology that is

the reason for this, but the change in reporting requirements.

Whilst there have been many technological and legislative changes since 1987 (the introduction of selfassessment in 1996 springs to mind) there has always been a requirement to report final income and gains on an annual basis.

Making Tax Digital introduces a quarterly reporting requirement, followed by an end of year statement. This will serve to place additional burden on many businesses and without careful planning and action significant additional costs.

As with most tax driven reporting there will be a penalty regime for late or noncompliance. MTD is being introduced in two phases, MTD for VAT and MTD for Income Tax. MTD for VAT VAT registered businesses and organisations with a taxable turnover over the VAT threshold (£85,000) will be required to maintain their accounting records and file their VAT returns using MTD compliant software, from the first VAT period starting on or after 1st April 2019. HMRC has announced a six month deferral to the start date for some more complex businesses. VAT registered businesses with turnover below the VAT threshold (i.e., those that have registered voluntarily) can continue to maintain their accounting records and file their VAT returns as they do currently, at least until 2020.

HMRC have now issued letters encouraging eligible businesses to take part in the MTD VAT Pilot. I would recommend that you seek advice before

joining the pilot as the letters can be misleading.

MTD for Income Tax Mandatory MTD reporting for income tax has been delayed but is still expected to happen. HMRC still expects MTD for income tax to become mandatory, but

“Doing nothing is not an option.

Firstly, check to see if you are affected by the changes in April 2019.” the government has made a commitment that this will not be before 2020.

Where Does This Leave Us? Doing nothing is not an option. Firstly, check to see if you are affected by the changes in April 2019.

If you are indeed affected, you need to review your current systems and arrangements to see what arrangements you need to put in place. If changes are needed, make a plan to implement these without delay and certainly well before the implementation date of 1st April 2019.

Where Can You Get Advice & Help?

For HMRC guidance: follow www.gov. uk/government/news/hmrc-publishesmore-information-on-making-tax-digital Speak to an advisor: Berrys, Chartered Accountants have produced a help sheet and will be running a series of surgeries. For more information email keith.berry@berrysaccountants.co.uk or call 01805 628122.

Keith Berry FCA

37

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Wednesday 24th today pleaseWorks  Damp Surveys & Remedial ee eJames inFrSt stimates Chapel St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am & friendly ad Short Tennis  Woodworm & Rot Treatments vice HNC @ High Bickington in St James Chapel , NVQ and Friday Institu Centre 4.30-5.30pmProviding for 5+ quality but TV, 12th Video Installations  Kitchen &DVD, Bathroom Design &and FittingDigitalWCommunity Short Tennis @ Highaffordable Bickington ood Prese te of rving & Legion 3rd Weds of every StMichael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Royal British Damp -Pro Property Maintenance Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+ o fi ng @ GT Conservative accountancy and taxation services. in St James Chapel Club qualifi7pm properly?

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38

Phone Alistair McMillan

01805 804626 or 07977 810 088

Ask fo

Local, fri CRB Che

Year 9 been could be have as simple asworking a£1.blue depending on the season, may well be £2(this Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am per child – under 1s £1 – siblings Rolle Canal & Northern Saturday 13th We Remember mushroom crate turned upside down flowering at the time of the walk.

Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Price includes healthy snack & drink for hard on the study of the Advice Surgery with Geoffrey Cox MP. The golden cornfield glimmered stride saw another cloud gather to Waterways Society Guided Walkin with a 10cm x 10cm hole cut World in one of War The start of the walk is459001 atlives.

Annery Morgan children & hot drink for adults for watch an appointment ring 01237 or Thethe poetry of The First the morning sun and gently, the heads the men fight for their new season's programme The The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter of Leach 01769 560 685. thein short sides and a term. weight onThis top) Kiln, the WearetheGiffard

by Rebecca email to on tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox orand via the English this of corn swayed back andstarts forth.onHidden hooves engraved groundroad Sunday afternoon walks 26th Day Saints meet @ Bideford College which should stop any local cats Halfpenny Bridge, at 2.30pm on website www.geoffreycox.co.uk year, their reflection and amongst theaBideford, hope summer sights andth sounds engraved history on May with visit of to EX39 the site of men the Coffee Abbotsham Rd, 3ARthe 18th Morning in aidThe of Wembworthy distance is little Thursday enjoying a free meal. Cat biscuits (not Sunday 26 May. readied themselves.

They readied to the men.

They began to gallop.

A learning powerfully coincided Inclined Plane at Ridd.

This is the Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50amMichael's Church Chulmleigh Town Hall to 9-11am over a@mile but with plenty look at Stfish flavour)Church are anSaid idealMass food to put in place whereforthe Canal Cavalry cakes, themselves theRolle thunderous thunderous Cavalry charge.

Swords with the one hundred year 1pm produce, draw is prizes appreciated in St James and discuss likely to take a 10.30am the feeding stationChapel but please never was raised about3pm 43 feet charge andupreadied themselves sliced men as the sun disappeared and Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) @ The for the Major anniversary of the armistice Walker MC Ceremony @ War Music Gaga: Rock Anthems 8pm @ The couple of hours. A donation of bread and milk as it can make them from the valley floor near Plough uncertainty they faced… the storm gathered angrily and aPlough Memorial 11am (see in 1918 and this has led £2clouds to article) the Rolle Canal seriously ill.

Weare to a Film 'Argo'Giffard (15) 7pm @level The Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30pm Clambering upon theirPlough innocent gloom descended onfunds them details all.

Society's will be Ifto yousome find a hedgehog outpieces during the fantastic of Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ in the side the valley 01805 622648 ran or Beryl 19th and horses the of thudding of Devon heartsHall began. Doug The enemies and 01805 being helps Friday appreciated and day, wobbling unsteady or you’re writing.

First is Amy’s prose 8pm that be maintained 624294 Michael's Church Saidthat 8.30am The could trembling hands created a unprepared theythe fumbled in ecstasy enable Society to keepto Stworried one visits your pieceabout based on Mass a clip from all the way inland to the 'Great Expectations' 7.30pm @ St Jamesplace Chapel cacophony of slashing swords as they Film find their weapons.work They dashed into volunteer going to in garden, the hedgehog in a WarTrain' Horse, followed byhigh two Monday 8th High Bickington Cinema head at Rosemoor.

'Zion 8pm @ promote sided box with a The hot Plough water bottle were weir pulled from their scabbards and the depths ofand the maintain forest asfeatures a roar ofof Gig Historical & Talksseen 'Beam Music Coope Boyes & Simpson 8pm @ poems inspired by footage of Many Society people AGM will have the Rolle Canal. burst Futureforth. walksClouds this year were&pointed their fate. A machine of jet wrapped in a towel and cover with the House Quay' & towards John Oatway Plough guns men theit up top’ this site on previous walks but this year The th th th Saturday 20th June, 28 July and 18 will be 16 cloth that ‘going you usedover to pick withand roar of yelling enemy directed the men black whirled above the men’s heads Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @over there have been developments Music Bob Fox 8pm @ The Plough words from Ted Hughes’ poem August.

For further details if required: then please ring any of the following towards their and a pale pallor and some just stood stock-still and Methodist Church 14th the winter that destiny will make it well worth a Sunday ‘Bayonet Charge’ . email: hassallc@ymail.com or phone who will be more than willing to give smothered their faces.

Slowly and embraced their death.

Film 'Wreckvisit. it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am repeat The Heritage Lottery Sunday 01237 425357, but you'll probably have advice or 21st take to one of the local vets.

Plough steadily, they moved forwards.

Every Amy Phillips, Year 9 Rev Peter Whatton 6.30pm Mrs Vivienne funded ‘Life's Journey’ project has St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Mass to leave a message.  British Hedgehog Preservation Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough Sunday Club in upper room produced a new pathway from the Sheriff ChrisMass Hassall Ignatius Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough Society 01584 890801 St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Torrington Methodist Church 10.30 comrade, Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the ‘Bayonet Charge’ Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room  North Devon 5pm Hedgehog Rev Ken Morgan Circuit Rescue Service @ Inclined Plane where two illustrated His face blank The countdown has started Bayonet Charge Tuesday 9th Film 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm & 7pm @ Our Hedgehogs Need You!!!!!!

01271 816989 or 07964 522 359 Parkham information boards have been installed Lifeless.

Tick, tick, tick.

Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough The Hedgehog Plough TheRamblers general’safternoon pocket watch Anni Nicholls Awareness Week is on its Torridge walk ticked in to describe the saltmarsh habitat by Every second (12A) we wait Film 'Hitchcock' 8pmon @the Theedge of our way Menbut shrieking, wailing, fear why wait until then to 01237 451820  Torridge Hedgehog Rescue the Torridge and the workings and Plough nerves, Monday Sloshing though Film 'Les Miserables' (12A) 3pm @of The As we waited a sea raindrops. help?

As 15th spring puddles is here of blood (working with under ND Hedgehog purpose of the Rolle Canal. It is now Singing for Fun 7.30-8.30pm Every second closer, PloughAsRescue) Guns blazing and hopefully the weather@ High the general uttered into the silence Angela Hodge possible to gain a far better Wednesday 10th Community Closer to hearing the dreaded sound of Bickington Film 'IofGive a 486 Year' (15) 7pm @ The Wind whistling improves our spikyCentre friends 07884 509 the itbitter air: understanding of Said theMass lay-out and Mini Stbayonets Michael'sclashing Church 8.30am Mover Dance Session for under 5's Plough“FixPlease into place. will be up and about again.

Hearts pounding. look out for events in bayonets!” the inclined plane boat lift 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington Community in workings St James of Chapel It’s been extremely your area duringfilled Hedgehog Men litteranthe ground. tough The sound of rattling the air as we than was previously the case.

The Like an alarm sounding, Torrington W.I @ Methodist Hall 7pm Centre th th Monday 22nd winter for them.

The to 11 May. Awareness Week 5 Time’s running out did so. upper basin of the canal at the top of The whistle rings out Film 'I Wish' (PG) 8pm @ The Plough Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5's changeable and wet weather Tick, tick,16th tick. the incline hasforbeen clearedonofthe scrub Men fumbling a foothold wet Tuesday 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington has made it difficult for many of sufficiently enable the outline of its 'Hearing PetsAsAsnumb Therapy shaking lips blew Thursday slimy ladder.to11th for You' Social group for the My fingers turn numb Community Centre them to find food or hibernate properly banks to metal beChurch clearly seen, and the way hard Pets As copper, Therapy is a8pm @ The On Alistair the ofmy hearing.

Every 3rd Tues 2pm @ StThe Michael's Said Mass cold of the trigger Comedy McGowan As rifle falls to the ground. over the past months so many are now the railway subsequently cut through national charity founded The Bickford Centre call 01271 373236 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by The high-pitched ring of the whistle The field of discarded bodies I stumble and fall too.If you know that Plough weak and High need help. the northern end, destroying the top of Youth Club Bickington Community Walsingham cell in vicarage in 1983.

It is unique in our Gallery Gig The Pete Canter Triotrench and Ushered us all out of The flash of burning heat as I skim you had a resident hedgehog in your Overwhelming regret.

Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm The now Centre the incline. basin for 11+ @ 5-7pm thatinto it @ provides therapeutic 8.18pm Thefate.

Plough our flaming debris This canal @ area lastfear. year don’t forget Terror; Clubplease 7pm Juniors 8pm to put Plough supports an increasing population of Badminton visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing Shot-slashed men,Beauty gasping for life. a bowl of water and some food out for Tuesday Adults @ Bickington Community Centre Theatre Multi Storey: & The Khaki turned red.

Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a andAll care homes,myspecial that23rd crossed mind wasneeds regret them, placing it inside a feeding station Youth pairs @ Torrington Beast 2pm @ The Ploughorchid) Merciless rain, green flowered which, Cribbage This is it… competition schools and a variety of other venues Club for 11+ 5-7pm @High As I sprinted through the barbed wire Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The 8pm Flooded boots and squelching footfalls. Arms Bickington Community Centre The clock stops. and wet mud Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm The shrapnel haze clouding my vision, bravery and courage.

Zoe Babb, YearAdults 9 Clouding Plough note early start for long film @ High Bickington Community Mid-stride stumbling over a fellow CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Centre

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Dom

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TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB Families Welcome

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

Qualified & Experienced Landscape Gardener For all your gardening needs large or small Call Stuart 07971533 235

Contact Sharon 01805 622543 That Halloween atmosphere may feel some time ago for most of us, but for our Year 7 LBacc Frankenstein classes, it lives on!

Here are Hebe’s and Kristian’s fantastic monologue, written in the voice of Victor Frankenstein.

Torrington Writers’ Group

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Victor Frankenstein monologue shudder as I Horrid, disgusting beast. I’ve prayed for you to die so hard, short black grease for hair and a cold, black pebble for a heart. I hate you. Where did my family go so suddenly? Tell me now. If I can bring back life, then you’re capable of more! OI look at myself. What happened to me?

A curse that lashed my heart to shreds. Nothing came better, a lost soul, contaminated my mind. My breath that lost itself in the mountains, then a

Like rain falling in a gutter, my friends collapsed One by one, their raw, blood littering the soil.

The machine guns mowed us all down like wheat In a field, as I prayed for dear life.

We were the innocent woodchips on the old plank Being sanded down by German rounds.

The vulnerability of our precious lives shattered And our screams of agony echoed around Irrelevant thoughts of the past.

Elan Miller, Year 9

finally wake.

The heart I gave you, frozen, cold, just like mine. A pain stabbed at my chest. I stabbed it back.

Ahhh! Help me, oh please, I can’t bear this anymore. I’m broken, wounded, torn to ribbons of guilt. Elizabeth, come back.

Forgive me?

Hebe Thompson, Year 7

Victor Frankenstein monologue

I wanted to be somebody.

I waited my entire life for that moment, but I had no idea what would happen.

If that moment was to start over, I’d take back what I did.

What I created was a disgrace, an outcast from society.

It looked me dead in the eye and I ran out of the lab.

I now regret this stupid decision.

The monster’s heart was stone and unbreakable.

I did everything I could to defend my loved ones.

But it wasn’t enough.

He is death in my eyes.

Kristian Baxter

he topic for the group this month was ‘The Black Parasol’.

Unfortunately there were only four members present, but one absentee very thoughtfully sent her writing to the group to be read - thank you.

This was a descriptive and sad piece depicting a child’s funeral. Following that piece we were transported to a cold and foggy night where a horse and carriage, driven by a ghostly woman in black and brandishing a black parasol, came out of the castle and set off at speed across the moors.

From ghosts we went to a young man clearing a cottage left to him by his grandmother and discovering a secret cupboard. Inside this cupboard he discovered a portrait of a beautiful woman with a black parasol and also a love letter hidden in the ornate frame of the portrait.

This was followed by a very interesting and true piece about a black parasol that had been passed down through this member’s family from way before the Second World War. Finally we had a ‘lesson’ in the ‘importance of a parasol’ and the possible association with Oscar Wilde. The reading of this caused much laughter, and what a lot we learnt.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 6th December, subject: ‘The Business Card’. There will be no meeting in January 2019; the next will be Thursday 7th February. For more information please visit ww.torringtonwriters.co.uk.

Sue Davan

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The Crier Prize Crossword This month’s prize is £50 off glasses for an Atlantic Eye Care home-visit patient.

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 crossword is Carole Milham. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 10th January the solution and winner will be in the February issue.

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or people who have difficulty getting out to an optician’s practice, looking after their vision is more important than ever in maintaining independence. It’s also sadly one of the things that can be left behind a little. Because of the importance and benefits of regular check-ups, the NHS will cover the cost of a home eye test for most housebound patients.

We’ve been providing professional home eye care for the last ten years.

As part of that service we offer full eye examinations, can provide new tailormade spectacles, and can refer for conditions such as cataract, glaucoma and macular degeneration. In fact, our patients often say they feel it’s the most thorough examination they’ve had, whether at home or in practice!

We’re based in North Devon and specialise in visiting people for their eye care in their own homes. We already see several other residents in the area and one of the most common comments we receive is that our patients didn’t know that a home-visit eye examination service even existed, let alone that a local firm provides it.

If you’d like to know more about having your eyes tested at home, or to book an appointment, we’re happy to have a chat - you can call us on 01271 590039.

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

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018 has been a year in which a great deal of work has gone into building a solid administrative system that will provide us with a firm footing for the future. Invisible work that makes ordering so much easier! If perhaps you were put off by our previous system, do revisit us and reconsider, it really is super simple now.

Our November Qi Gong and Raw Chocolate Making Workshop went well, and we are currently considering what’s next for 2019. If you have ideas, requests or comments regarding our events – qi gong, chocolate, EMF talks and demonstrations, cooking workshops or indeed anything else, please do let me know.

Wellbeing Tip: Organic Wholefoods Strengthen Immunity Of course we all want to be well, feel vibrant and to be able to really enjoy the festive season. Yet we often put off those positive diet and lifestyle changes, saying “I’ll do it after Christmas”; launching ourselves into the winter season with an immunity-depleting barrage of alcohol, refined sugar and carbohydrates, poor quality fats and processed foods, all topped off with plenty of stress! If we treat ourselves this way, we can hardly be surprised if we succumb to winter ills, with low energy and low spirits. So how do we begin to change all that?

1. Make your own health and wellbeing a prime consideration – a gift that will last you a lifetime 2. When shopping and cooking, choose ingredients and dishes for their nutritional qualities and purity 3. Have fun adapting your favourite dishes, by substituting more wholesome ingredients.

4. Be adventurous and try something new!

5. Take advantage of the enormous range of wholesome foods available through the Buying Group, and the support, camaraderie and experience of our members.

Next bi-monthly grocery order date: 21st January Contact me now so you’re primed for the new catalogue on 1st Jan Buying Group FAQ’s How do I join? Ring or email Mary as below What does membership cost? Free Must I order a minimum amount? No Must I order every month? No If I don’t order, can I still apply to share someone else’s order? Yes How do I pay? BACS or cash on collection What if I need advice or have questions? Ring me now 01805 623 307 or email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk. Here to help.

Wishing you and yours a wonderfully well festive season!

Mary Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group & Mary Crail Biofeedback & Wellbeing Website: Mary Crail Wellbeing

Burwood Park’s Helping Hands Fundraising Update

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urwood Park’s Helping Hands have had a busy couple of weeks. On Friday 19th October we hosted our first Quiz Night and raised £121 towards the Park Fund, big thanks to the winning team who donated their winnings back to the park. At the time of writing we are busy organising a number of other events, including a Christmas Bingo for the 23rd November.

On Friday 7th December we will be hosting a Ladies Night at Torridge Vale Social Club. Doors will open at 8pm and entry is by ticket only. Tickets are available at £4 each from committee members, through our Facebook page or through our email address below.

We are sad to report that the climbing frame in our younger children’s play area has been deemed unsafe. At a recent inspection a number of issues were discovered on the frame, and it has sadly been fenced off for the time being whilst Torridge District Council make a decision about its future.

We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone that has supported our events over the past seven months. We are thankful to the local businesses that have been very generous and donated lots of raffle prizes. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Burwood Park’s Helping Hands burwoodparkshelpinghands@outlook.com

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

• Duane’s Carvings • Just 4 Kidz •

Eight great holiday cottages • Prettily situated Comfortably priced • 1-5 bedrooms • Spacious indoors & out Gardens for play and relaxation Outdoor summer pool, table tennis, pool table, wi-fi

GREAT TORRINGTON PANNIER MARKET Retail Outlets, Craft Workshops & Café

Open Monday to Saturday all day Tel: 01805 626110 • genesis@great-torrington.com

Thursday to Saturday General Market 8am-5pm • British Red Cross • Elftree • The Market Café • Fiddlesticks •

For Socks etc. • Town Museum • Kitch ’n’ Cupboard

• Crafty Needles • Odds & Sods • The Jewel in the Town • Toy Swap Shop • Times Past

Torrington RFC Juniors

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t has been a good month or so for the youth section, with games now being played against various local clubs.

The U7s and U8s have had some great tag rugby games over at Barnstaple RFC, whilst the U9s have played games against Bideford RFC, Barnstaple RFC, South Molton RFC and Crediton RFC. The U10s are slowly growing and by the time this has been printed, they would also have played against South Molton and Crediton rugby clubs. The U12s have also had a busy few weeks, with games against Bideford and South Molton. Most age groups will also be playing Okehampton RFC for the first time in December. All these games are giving the players some amazing confidence, and they now realise they are better than they probably first thought. The more they play together, the more they are learning to play as a team and not a group of individuals. It really is a joy to watch all groups learn and grow, but more importantly have a lot of fun together. Well, it is the best team sport!

The new kit has also been ordered for all these age groups. A massive thank you to RHS Rosemoor and WM Ironworks for funding playing shirts, and also a big thank you to RGB Building Supplies for subsidising training jackets for the kids to wear during the winter months. We are looking forward to running out in the new shirts for the first time. Photos to follow in the coming weeks. If there are any other companies out there that would like to support the youth section financially, please get in touch.

The last event of 2018 will be our Christmas party on the 21st December.

A chance for all players, coaches and parents to enjoy some social time away from the muddy pitches.

To end, a reminder that our training times are as follows: U6-U10 are on Sunday mornings from 10am until approx. 11am-11.15am. Our U12s (school years 6 and 7) now train on Friday evenings from 6.307.30pm both at Torrington RFC.

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We would like to wish all players and families an excellent Christmas and New Year. We will see you all again in 2019!

For more information, please contact Adrian Avery (Youth Section Chairman) on agavery81@gmail.com or 07780 665 378.

Victorian Christmas Soiree

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oin us for sumptuous desserts, entertaining company and carol singing.

Come in costume if desired.

Torrington Methodist Church 6.30pm. Tickets from Heather 01805 623002, Vivienne 01805 623024 or Trish 01805 625370.

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts - What a Year!

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hat a year it has been for our group; we have come a long way since the spring, when we were unsure of our future. We have more than doubled the number of young members. Each section has been having lots of fun earning badges and awards, learning new skills and making friends.

We have also received funding to make repairs to the Scout Hall, and we have applied to a number of sources for funding to refurbish the windows and heating, and longer term we would like to look at refurbishing the kitchen and toilet facilities.

We have carried out a number of fundraising activities this year: a coffee morning, sponsored walk, Halloween party and a bag pack at ASDA. Monies raised from these events will go towards activities for the young members, as they were actively involved in raising the monies.

This term our Beavers have been busy working towards their Animal Friend Badge; they learnt about hedgehogs and made hedgehog houses, how to look after pets and have been keeping a diary of an animal that they looked after. They had lots of fun building huge ‘hamster highway’ structures from recyclables.

They have also been working towards their Fire, Water and Road Safety Badges – all very important skills for everyday life.

The Cubs have also been working towards their Animal Carer Badge, and they have been learning about endangered animals and have also been keeping a diary of an animal they have looked after. Cubs visited Pets at Home for a workshop where they were introduced to various animals and reptiles, and learnt about how to care for them. Cubs have also been working towards their Safety Badge, which includes fire, home, personal and road safety, and towards the end of this term have started their Astronomers Badge where they are learning about stars and the solar system. They also had a really fun night having an Archery session

delivered by one of our Scout Leaders.

To complete their World Challenge Badges parents joined us to taste different celebration food and drink from other countries, and were served by Beavers and Cubs – a fantastic way to finish off the year.

The Scouts too have been busy finishing their World Challenge Award, and they have also been working towards their International Badge which looks at Scouting in different countries, and issues and disasters abroad. They have been able to make contact with a Scout Group in the USA, and are currently setting up a ‘pen pal’ programme to write to each other. Scouts also had a fun evening participating in archery and they finished off their term with a ‘Christmas Camp’ in the Scout Hall where they cooked Christmas dinner for themselves and the Leaders, so much fun and not much sleep!

The Scout Group attended the Remembrance Parade on the 11th November and the number of young members who attended was fantastic, they all looked very smart and we were very proud to represent our Scout Group within our community.

The whole Scout Group recently had a presentation from ‘Really Wild Learning’, where they were shown reptiles, snakes, spider and other creepy crawlies. This was a fantastic opportunity to go towards their animal badges and as you can imagine the children loved it. Thank you to Really Wild Learning for providing this event.

We are very much looking forward to 2019 where we hope to continue to increase our group size and to ensure our young members have as much fun as possible, whilst learning new skills.

If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Beavers (age 6-8), Cubs (age 8-10), Scouts (age 10-14) or if you feel that you may be interested in helping in any way - please contact Kirsty Pells on 07887 557574 or email kirsty.pells@btinterent.com.

Torrington Senior Citizens Group

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his year our group has enjoyed trips to Wells, Paignton, Westonsuper-Mare and Dartmouth. The weather has been in our favour throughout. We went on a Christmas shopping trip to Truro in November. We will conclude our year with a Christmas lunch at Launceston on Tuesday 4th December.

Our AGM on Wednesday 27th March 2019 at 2pm at the Methodist Church is open to new members who live in our town. We will elect officers and vote for venues for trips.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2019!

Dear Editor Your readers may have heard recently of the £240m of extra money being allocated to the social care system to ease pressure on the NHS this winter.

We now know this will mean that over £5.6 million will be made available in Devon.

While it’s important that the Government has recognised that social care underfunding lies at the heart of our hospitals’ winter pressures, the amount committed is a let-down – less than 10 per cent of what’s needed to fix the social care crisis now. The social care system is ‘not just for Christmas’ and people with dementia, as its biggest recipients, are experiencing the emotional and economic cost all year round.

To actually turn the tide for the 24,000 people with dementia in Devon we need to plug the current funding gap and offer them the chance to access the good quality social care they have a right to.

Marion Child Head of Region (South West) Alzheimer’s Society

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R & S Ware Family Butchers

Catering & Delivery Available • Quality Beef, Lamb, Pork & Poultry

AWARD WINNING BURGERS & SAUSAGES

Homemade Sausages, Burgers, BBQ Meats, Cooked Meats, Hogs Pudding, Brawn, Faggots, Spit Roast Chicken, Pasties Homemade Pies & Sausage Rolls, Quiche, Coleslaw, Cheeses, Eggs, Frozen Foods Quality Service & Satisfaction • Catering & Delivery Available • Open Seven Days a Week CHRISTMAS ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN Orders to the value of £20 or more will receive a voucher for 10% off 1 single transaction during January/February 2019 15-17 South Street, Torrington • Tel: 01805 622191 • Email: rsware@btconnect.com

December highlight:

Glow

until 5 Jan Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays Christmas Food & Craft Fair 15 & 16 December Winter Sculpture Exhibition until 24 February Father Christmas and his Elves Family Experience (ticketed) 21- 24 December Normal garden admission applies For tickets and information rhs.org.uk/rosemoor or Tel:01805 626810

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