December January Crier 2017 by The Torrington Crier

FREE December/January 2017/18 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 2nd December 1pm onwards Christmas Lights Switch On at 5.30pm, see inside for details!

CHRISTMAS CAPER RUN Sunday 17th December Torrington Rugby Club 11am

TARKA VALLEY RAILWAY ‘SANTA AT THE STATION’ Saturday & Sunday 9th & 10th December

CAVALIERS’ CHRISTMAS GROTTO & GIVEAWAY rd Saturday 23 December 10am-1pm

THE BIG SING Wednesday 13th December Pannier Market 7pm

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

MORE CHRISTMAS EVENTS INSIDE!

FREE CHRISTMAS PARKING IN GREAT TORRINGTON!

Sydney House Car Park Saturdays 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd December & Friday 22nd Barley Grove Car Park Free Parking on 2nd December ONLY

Christmas & New Year greetings to all - we would love to see you in 2018

FAMILY COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE SUNDAY 17 DECEMBER 5pm with Brass Band leading the carols, Alpacas, Puppets and FREE Hog Roast Bluecoat CofE Junior School, Great Torrington Grosvenor Church Torrington Pastor Tim Gilbert 07789 670754 www.grosvenorchurch.org.uk

grosvenor church torrington

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Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to you all!

Season’s greetings to all of our readers and advertisers. We would like to thank you all for another year of your support. We hope that The Crier provides what you need for your local community newsletter, but if there’s something you would like us to do, please get in touch, all ideas are welcome!

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

DECEMBER SUNDAYS : 4pm Family Service Jesus - God’s present to you 2

You are very welcome to join us for our family friendly 1 hour service at Bluecoat CofE Junior School, Great Torrington - music, worship, teaching, sunday school & refreshments. Grosvenor Church Torrington Pastor Tim Gilbert 07789 670754 www.grosvenorchurch.org.uk

grosvenor church torrington

Season’s Greetings from New Road Garage Wishing all our customers, old and new, a lovely Christmas & a peaceful New Year. From, Darren, Saskia & our great workshop crew; Chris, James, Pete, Zac, Ian and Jamie. Car Sales • Servicing & Repairs • Valeting • MOTs

01805 625008

From Your Mayor...

ell December is here, are we all ready for Christmas? October has been busy; I was delighted to attend the Torrington in Bloom Awards night at The Torrington Arms, it’s wonderful to see what other people are growing in their gardens. Well done to everyone who took part, and it was so good to see some youngsters involved, these are the gardeners of the future, As you all know the under croft at the Town Hall can now be hired for events. Recently the Rotary Club held a pop up shop for two weeks, and the Kimber family also held one to raise funds for the wonderful Little John’s House. On 15th October I went to the Mayor of Lynton and Lynmouth’s Civic Service, it was a beautiful day, and at the church door is a wonderful view of Lynmouth and the scenic coastline. We then returned to their Town Hall for a lovely lunch, and a catch up with friends I made from last time I was Mayor. I would like to give a mention and

thanks to our Beadle Les Gates, who joined us just over a year ago, he is a valued member of the team, and ensures we get to events safely. Our two technicians, Andy Smale and Colin Davis, have taken over a number of jobs in the town, for example repairs of street furniture, grass cutting and many others, which they carry out with great pride for the town. Each Mayor becomes Chair of the May Fair/Carnival committee, and I would like to thank them for the countless hours they all dedicate throughout the year. It’s not an easy job, and without them there would be no May Fair or Carnival. On 21st October I was delighted to attend the Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club tournament, held at the sports hall. Margaret Brown came with me, and what a fantastic evening it was. They welcomed boxers from Devonport, Falmouth, Bristol, Sydenham and other towns. I don’t know a lot about boxing, but Margaret and I were very impressed! I was delighted to present awards,

along with some of the sponsors; it was fantastic to see the support from local traders and the many draw prizes that were donated. I would sincerely like to thank everyone at the Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club for a brilliant evening, and for the fantastic work you do every week training and coaching all the boxers. On 3rd November Keeley and I supported the Mayor of South Molton at her charity dinner and dance, this was held in their beautiful Town Hall; a lovely evening in the company of other members of the ‘chain gang’. December is looking to be a busy month, with the Big Sing on the 13th, and a coffee morning for the May Fair committee on the 16th at TVSC. I am looking forward to joining the Guides at their celebrations on 6th December. May I take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas, and a healthy, peaceful New Year. Sue Mills Proud to be Mayor of 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

Contact Sue Scrutton 01805 622391 or Val Morris 01805 622306

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

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB Families Welcome

l Local Driving Instructor l Beginners or partially trained l Nervous pupils welcome l Discounts for block bookings l Dual controls Alan Edwards - DSA ADI (Car) l Refresher lessons Tel: Torrington 01805 622972 l Pass Plus Mobile: 07818 667 074

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

New Library & Website of opportunity to ask System We also need volunteers to help with Your Council Needs You e locations for these supporting café and its customers e currently have a vacancy for one co-opted Please Remember Your the Card so if you can spare two hours a month Councillor to join the other Council Members of inChurch December! then please get in touch. Hartland Hall Great Torrington Town Council. uring December, Devon libraries In April Annie Brierley isThe coming Woodland Vale Care Town to Council therefore invites written applications will be introducing a new website read short stories and outlining poems which ton why you are interested in becoming a Town Councillor, and library system. Our existing should invoke a lot of memories from Arts Centre, Bideford and what you believe you can bring to the role for consideration. library system, and some pages from aour the past. If you, loved one or friend Applicants has a memory problem then let themmust meet at least one of the qualifications set out website, Memorial Hall, will be temporarily shut down. below: For a period of up toknow three about weeks the all Café - everyone is a) I am registered as a local government elector for the parish; or welcome. Devon Libraries will be offering a limited ortham Hall b) I have, during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of my coFor further information contact time you will still be ld likeservice. any During further thisPauline option, occupied as owner or tenant, land or other premises in the parish; or Pagebut 01805 items, you 625969 or email ut anyable of to borrow and return c) My principal or only place of work during those twelve months has been in the on paulinepage123@btinternet.com will need to make sure you have your , please parish; or library card with you. Return dates will Jones, d) I have during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of my coMeditation be extended to cover this period, so you ry (01237 option resided There is a weekly meditation class in the parish or within three miles of it. won’t need to renew items. Applications every Thursday in the dance studio at should be no more than one side of A4 paper. Whilst we make the changes there will The Plough Arts Centre, 6.15-7.15pm For further information please see the Town Council’s website www.greatbe no online available, and on Memory Café catalogue Meditation is torrintontowncouncil.gov.uk. a way of will not items. café you seems to be beable to reserve learning to Please relax forward and applications to Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Great rength-to-strength Once the with work is completed, allrespond of our creatively to the Torrington, EX38 8AA or by email to admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk to ers every month. libraries will have a new system installed challenges bewhich life received no later than Thursday 21st December 2017. day felland on our Valentine’s new website will go live. throws at us. It can also M.A. Tighe, Town Clerk ebrate we had a duet The Devon Libraries will be helpwebsite to reduce stress. By learning to ing ballads as well as bright, easy to use and navigate, meditate we and find space in our busy pies and for the adults and chocolate scuits and decorations. Thank You From Torrington lives to get in touch withmince ourselves make browsing much easier. e which helped raise for the children develop of what is going on and a free raffle. Come Please bear with us whilst awareness these Community Food Bank some of the costs. and around join us and ourthank mindyou andfor in the world us. admire the Christmas changes place in and orrington Community Food Bank n fortunate againtake to get tree they have If we think of finding happiness, inner so kindly supplied for the understanding. would like to thank the town, fromyour the Devon building. peace, as a state of mind then d whichChristmas will help usEvents to churches and surrounding villages for Christmas opening hours meditation are offering drop– can help us to achieve that velop theWeservice we two their wonderful support during this year, goal. The library will close at 1pm on Christmas craft events. ple whoinhave memory we really are most grateful. I teach two complementary practices, Saturday 23rd December, and reopen Saturday 9th put December John Portman who The latter part of this year has been th one which focuses on the breath and on Saturday 30 December from 10amwork 10.30am-12pm. to secure this Zuzanna, our young very busy for the food bank, and it is the other which focuses on the 1pm, and then back to normal hours for ntionedvolunteer in last month’s will be ready with glue and been meditating for a emotions. I have only through your support that we are th the New Year on Thursday 4 January movingglitter awayfor from thefestive some fun, of years and learnt the number able to help the people who come to us. 2018. eed to recruit another Tuesday 12th December 3.30-5pm. WeTriratna Buddhist practices with the While we are grateful for any Kate, Lisa, Jennie & Becky wish our aiser. look If forward anyone toissharing the sparkle the Community, a of movement which has donations, we would be most grateful wonderful community a happy and s post then please get adapted Buddhism in a way that is season. peaceful Christmas for the following items as we often run The Friends of Torrington Library will and the out: tea, coffee, sugar, and tinned cold be here to welcome you all on Saturday very best for 2018. meat. 9th December from 10am-12pm, with Torrington Community Food Bank

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity Christmas Distribution of Vouchers

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 8th December 2017 between the hours of: 9.30am-2pm. No applications will be considered before or after the above hours. I M Newman – Steward to the Trustees

The Rotary Club of Torrington Action in the Community

he club has been very busy during September and October; with the street collection for Shelter Box, the popup charity shop and Megadraw. The Pop Up charity shop held in the under croft of the Town Hall was a great success, and raised an amazing £4000 for The Children’s Hospice South West, so a special thank you to everyone that supported us.

Shelter Box

The street collection held in The Square in aid of The Shelter Box Caribbean Hurricane Appeal raised £400, and the club made this up to £590, the full cost of a box, from our charity account.

Megadraw

This year we have broken all records; we distributed 3000 tickets to the twelve clubs or organizations that applied, and between them they raised £2035, our previous record was £1596 in 2012.

Torrington Community Food Bank Collection 9th December

On Saturday 9th December we will be holding a street collection in The Square for the Food Bank, and also inviting you to donate food items there. Rick Smale, The Rotary Club of Torrington

Friends of Torrington Library Volunteers Wanted!

olunteers are required to help on the committee and to assist with future fund raising events. Please contact Christine Bury on 01805 625812 for further information.

Christmas Treats on Saturday 9th December

The Friends group will be holding a Christmas event in the library between 10am and noon. Please come along and see the lovely Christmas tree in the foyer, there will be mince pies for adults and chocolates for the children. All children will receive a free prize draw ticket. We wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Do You Use a Community Transport Service?

he Care Forum would like to get in touch with people who use Community Transport, or who would like to use it. If you use this type of transport, or know someone who does, please pass on the name and contact details to the Care Forum c/o Town Council Offices, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, for the attention of S Crawley. Thank you. Brian Coleshill, Care Forum

what’s on this

Christmas! Torrington Christmas Caper

n Sunday 17th December, Torrington Running Club will be holding its annual Torrington Christmas Caper race. The course is approximately 9 miles on a challenging route around the town and nearby countryside, which takes in some spectacular scenery. The race has previously been voted ‘Devon Race of the Year’. The start and finish is at Torrington Rugby Club, with registration starting from 9.30am, and the race starting at 11am. As well as changing facilities, showers and refreshments, there are prizes for all finishers along with category prizes. Entry is £11 in advance or £13 on the day. Entry forms can be downloaded from www.torringtonaac.org or find out more details from the “Torrington Christmas Caper 2017” Facebook page. Come along and enjoy the race, it will give you the chance to run off your Christmas pudding even before you’ve eaten it! Although fancy dress isn’t compulsory, we always enjoy seeing the occasional fairy or reindeer and this year there is also a prize for the best fancy dress. Merry Christmas from all at Torrington AAC. Michael Newcombe

Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School Christmas Fayre

ome along to Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School’s Christmas Fayre on Friday 8th December between 5:30-7:30pm. There will be lots of games to play and stalls spread across both school halls. Delicious festive refreshments, big prize raffle, the always-popular chocolate tombola, face painting and so much more. Plus, the evening wouldn’t be complete without an appearance from the man himself, Santa, who will be in his grotto throughout the evening to meet the children. There will also be some festive entertainment on throughout the night. Everyone welcome!

Cavaliers’ Christmas Grotto and Giveaway

veryone is invited to the Cavaliers’ traditional Christmas grotto and giveaway in the new Town Hall under croft on Saturday 23rd December from 10-1pm. As usual the grotto theme is a secret so come along and see what it is. There will be treats for everyone, 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

Great Torrington Parish Church Christmas Fair

Saturday 2nd December 10am-3pm n partnership with Great Torrington Chamber of Trade’s ‘Whobilation’ and ‘Grinchmas’. Refreshments, stalls, raffles, all welcome.

Torrington Silver Band Christmas Events

hristmas Concert at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street on Friday 15th December, starts at 7.30pm. Entry is £5 on the door with under 16’s free and includes tea or coffee and a mince pie, and there will be a draw in the interval. Torrington Silver Band Christmas Bingo at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street, on Saturday 16th December, doors open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm. We hope you can join us!

Cavaliers’ New Year’s Eve Disco in the Square

lease join us in the square on New Year’s Eve to welcome in 2018 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 7pm 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

Remember Your Loved Ones This Christmas Light up a Life at Torrington Methodist Church

hoever you are remembering, whether young or old, you can pay tribute to them through the Children’s Hospice South West Light up a Life Appeal. Christmas is a special time of year, and for many, often a time to reflect and remember family and friends who are no longer with us. Children’s Hospice South West’s Light up a Life Appeal is a way to remember the lives of your loved ones through celebration. Your donation, in memory of a love one, will help us continue our care for over 500 children with life-limiting conditions and their families. As a lasting tribute your loved one’s name will be written in our Light up a Life Book of Remembrance and can be viewed at our Little Bridge House children’s hospice. The Book of Remembrance will also be displayed at our Light up a Life services this Christmas. We have a Light up a Life service at Torrington’s Methodist Church on Friday 15th December at 7pm and hope you can join us. For more information and to make donations please visit www.chsw.org.uk/light.

Christmas at Tarka Valley Railway

“

Christmas is coming the goose is getting fat; please put a penny in the railwayman’s hat”. Yes Santa is coming to the Railway on December 9th and 10th from 2-4pm on both days. The cost is £5 per child and tickets can be booked at The Puffing Billy, Torrington. We welcomed Chrissy Harris, journalist for Devon Life who is writing a feature on North Devon including an illustrated article on our Railway. The magazine will be published early next year. This is definitely one to look out for. We have continued to work across the site. Bulbs have been planted, gardens weeded, trees and shrubs cut back and bonfires burned. Torrington Cavalier is being spruced up in its’ correct colour of Ruston green, the brake van restoration continues apace, railings have been painted and sales in the carriage have added muchneeded funds. Our first event of 2018 is a talk by Barry Beckenham on Ambulance Trains of WW1 on Friday 26th January at the Puffing Billy. Tickets are £3 to include a light buffet and will be available in the carriage on Thursdays and at the Puffing Billy. Finally, on behalf of us all at the Railway, I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Follow us on Facebook for up to date news on our activities and don’t forget to look at our website www.tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk Rob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

The Appledore Singers Christmas Concert in aid of Devon Air Ambulance

he Appledore Singers’ Christmas Concert will take place on Sunday 17th December, 2.30pm at Northam Hall (top of Fore Street). 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! This year’s concert will be in aid of Devon Air Ambulance, a very worthy cause, and all profits will go to the charity. The afternoon’s entertainment will also include our popular ‘grand raffle’. All proceedings will be ably, and wittily, coordinated by Anthony Chambers our compere and 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’

Bideford Town Band Christmas Concert

onday 4th and 11th December at The Royal Hotel, Bideford, 7.45pm. Tickets £6, to book, call Becky 01237 475653, and enjoy a brilliant night of festive, musical entertainment.

SP h pr ECIAL O e-c FF Saturday 25 November to 5-8 ut Norw ER ft £1 0 ea ay Spruc Friday 22nd December 9.30am to 3.30pm ch! e

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Fres

Tel: 01837 810 829 or 01769 520508 Mob: 07830 606018

Christmas Community Events at Grosvenor Church

n October 29th we had great fun at Grosvenor with our ‘Light Party’. Over 100 people crammed into Bluecoat Primary School and we celebrated Light! It was lovely to be able to talk about ‘Jesus,’ the Light of the World in amongst the darkness of Halloween. We enjoyed some great party games, witnessed some amazing dance moves (mostly mine of course) and the children made some lovely lighthouses. Some of you may have seen these on Halloween on door steps around the town? We made the lighthouses to remind us that when we follow Jesus, no matter how dark life seems, we never walk in darkness as he lights up our path. In October we found out that some very good friends of ours are expecting their first baby. Nothing spectacular about that I guess, but as I know their story it was incredibly precious news! They’ve walked a very difficult path over the past few years as they tried everything humanly possible to conceive. Like many others who experience similar struggles, their path was very dark at times with much disappointment, hurt and frustration along the way. However despite the dark times they were never overwhelmed by the circumstances and they trusted Jesus was guiding them and lighting up their way. It’s great to see real life examples of people experiencing what the bible promises. Talking of babies and divine intervention, this is the season to celebrate the arrival of a very special baby! Our preaching series at Grosvenor Church in Great Torrington this Christmas is looking at this baby Jesus, God’s gift to us. Please come and check out what we are about this December. On the 17th December you are all invited to our Christmas Carol Service at 5pm, where we will be singing traditional carols, hearing about the Christmas story, watching some puppets and enjoying a free hog roast. When you come, keep an eye out for some reindeers disguised as Alpacas! We hope you can make this community event, and we especially welcome you if you don’t ‘do religion’. Don’t worry, Jesus didn’t ‘do’ religion and neither do we. However we do believe in being a genuine, loving group of people whose lives are full of hope, peace and joy because of God’s wonderful life changing gift to the world over 2000 years ago, Jesus! Merry Christmas. Tim Gilbert

The Winkleigh Singers’ Christmas Concert

his year there is a change of venue for the Christmas Concert. It will be held at Winkleigh Village Hall on Sunday 17th December at 7.30pm. The programme will include Britten’s ‘Celebration of Carols’ accompanied by harpist Elizabeth-Jane Baldery, and will be a magical start to the Christmas week. There will also be carols for all to sing and a bar in the interval. Tickets available from mid-November and on the door, under 16s are free. Please see the website for details www.winkleighsingers.org.uk

46 South Street, Torrington Tel: 01805 938002 instantimages.devon@btinternet.com

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

• 14 The Gallery • Just 4 Kidz •

We work closely with our customers to offer quality embroidered and printed garments. Ordering in time for Christmas? Deadline is 9th December 2017. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Tree Festival will be held in the St.Petroc’s Church on December 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Opening times are 10.30am - 3.30pm Friday and Saturday. On Sunday 3rd we are holding a Christingle Service at 11am, after which the church will stay open until 4.30pm. Light refreshments will be served. There will also be stalls of handicrafts and Christmas items for sale. Members from different village organisations are entering trees which we hope will number around 20, so do come along and support this enjoyable event for St.Petroc’s. The old West Country date for Twelfth Night was January 17th. Petrockstowe Church is holding a Victorian Twelfth Night celebration on Saturday January 20th 2018 to mark the event. We hope everyone will come dressed accordingly, in Victorian costume, to enjoy a hot meal followed by entertainment. Not too bawdy hopefully! 7pm for 7.30pm. For more details of both events please contact Ann Luxton 01837 810728.

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

Instant Images Embroidery

Christmas in Petrockstowe

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

Torrington Baptist Church at Christmas

s we approach Christmas are you looking for something a little bit different from Church? Try the Baptist Church on Sunday 17th December, we’ll be telling the Christmas story in a different way, and you can create your own memory with an ornament, card or something else special as a gift. Sounds too hectic? Well why not come and just relax with a hot drink and a bacon or sausage bap and enjoy a chat? The Church will be open from 10:30am till noon, drop in (or out) as you wish. Christmas Eve is a busy time, when we’re all rushing around doing those lastminute jobs, so this year Torrington Baptist Church will be holding its traditional ‘Carols by Candlelight’ service at 6pm on SATURDAY 23rd December. Please come and join us as we celebrate our Saviour’s birth, and stay for hot drinks, mince pies and sausage rolls afterwards. Loraine Eade

North Devon Choral Society Bach’s Christmas Oratorio

wonderful opportunity to hear all six parts of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. This glorious music will be conducted by John Hobbs, with Andrew Millington playing the organ, soloists Heloise West, Rebecca Smith, Paul Marty-West and Julian Rippon. Saturday 16th December, 7pm, at Church of St Michael & All Angels, Torrington. Tickets and information from Janet Sharp 01805 628262, or www.northdevonchoral.org.uk.

Festive Christmas Concert in Support of Cancer Research UK

aunceston Choral Society is stepping over the border to give a rousing Christmas concert in support of Cancer Research UK. There'll be some wonderful seasonal music, well-known carols to join in, a bar and refreshments. This will be festive evening for everyone. Sunday, 10th December 7pm door and bar, 7.30pm music at Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall EX20 4JT. Tickets are £6/£2 (16yrs and under). Ticket includes a glass of mulled wine and refreshments provided by Bratton Clovelly Festival To book, call 01837 871696 or email: brattonclovellyfestival@gmail.com.

Tanya’s Holistic Beauty & Nails Studio

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

Little Torrington Annual Dinner Dance

ittle Torrington is looking forward to the Festive Season. The annual Dinner Dance is being held on December 8th with dancing to The Texans and Carols at midnight. Tickets £15 from Irene on 01805 623297. The Village Hall is an ideal venue for Christmas Parties and celebrations, booking secretary Rose on 01805 625194.

Girlguiding Beaford Christmas Fair

irlguiding Beaford’s Christmas Fair will be held at Little Torrington village hall on Saturday 9th December 2-4pm. Entrance will be £1 which will include a free hot drink, children free. There will be a tombola, games, teddy stall, homemade goodies, raffle, refreshments and much more. All welcome, please come along.

Beaford Village Hall Events

here will be a ‘Special Christmas Market’ at 10.30am on December 9th, the Village Hall Christmas Quiz at 7.30pm on Friday 15th December and Beaford Cricket Club Bingo on Friday 8th December 7pm. Everyone is welcome, please join us!

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

Christmas and New Year at The Plough Arts Centre

Coffee Morning Raising Funds for May Fair & Carnival Committee

he Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee invites you to their Christmas coffee morning on Saturday 16th of December at the Torridge Vale Social Club from 10am-1pm. 50p entry (includes tea or coffee and a

biscuit). Come along and get yourself some sweet and savoury treats, or pick up some last minute Christmas gifts. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page, and for posters around the town for more details. We look forward to seeing you there, and on behalf of everyone on the Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! If anyone reading this would like to help out in anyway, with the coffee morning or join the committee, please contact our secretary (Tash) on 07787 249 533 or tash. batty@gmail.com.

ive yourself some time off from all the Christmas preparations and join us at The Plough for some fantastic entertainment! As usual there is always a wide choice of music which will satisfy most musical tastes, and for some seasonal music, the Exmoor Carolers will be singing their hearts out on Saturday 23rd December, with seasonal refreshments available in the gallery. Theatre plays a big part this December, with some wonderful shows for children kicking off in late November through to early December, with Quirk Theatre’s ‘Lucy and The Lost Ones’; The Last Baguette theatre company present ‘The Little Match Girl’, followed by a beautiful family show with The Peoples Theatre Company presenting ‘Santa in Love’, plus a ‘Meet ‘n’ Greet with Santa’ which includes a gift for each child! For more adult tastes we are showing National Theatre Live with ‘Young Marx’ on Thursday 7th December at 7pm, and on Friday 22nd December at The Plough, David Mynne will be performing Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ at 8pm. Don’t forget, if you are looking for a Christmas gift that is that little bit different, come along to our ‘Original Gifts Exhibition’ which will be open throughout December, where you will find lots of wonderful and unusual items made by local people! Visit www.theploughartscentre.org.uk for our full programme of events. A very Happy Christmas and a bright New Year to you all.

• WHAT’S ON IN GREAT TORRINGTON •

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

LEISURE, HOBBIES & ENTERTAINMENT (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Plough Workshops: every Monday: Yoga 6:30-8pm; Folk Orchestra 7-9pm; every Tuesday: Yoga 2:30-4pm; Adults ballet 6:30-7:30pm; Ploughcappella 7:30-9pm; every Wednesday: Adult English Class 6:30-8:30pm; Latin for Beginners 7-8pm; Tai Chi 7:30-9pm; every Thursday: Sapta Dance 11am-2:30pm; Tai Chi 2-3pm. Writers Group 7:30-9pm (first Thursday of the month), Life Drawing Sessions 7:30-9pm; every second Thursday Open Mouth Music & Poetry 8pm; every Friday: Sarah Anne Westcott School of Dance 3:30-7:30pm; every Saturday: Plough Junior Jazz 11am-1pm; Plough Youth Theatre 9:45am-5:15pm Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4pm Doug 01805 622648 Beryl 01805 624294 all welcome (every second Saturday) Tai Chi 12.30pm every Thursday, all abilities welcome. Contact Ageing Well on 01805 622666. £2.50 donation Cribbage pairs comp, third Wed of the month, Torrington Arms 8pm Tarka Pottery Adult Pottery Classes every Thursday in term time:10-12 noon, 1.30-3.30pm and 7-9pm 07931 306 414. Every Tuesday in term time: 10-12 noon and 7-9pm t: 07931 306 414 Papercrafts & scrapbooking club every Thursday 7-9.30pm, The Owl Barn Studio, Little West Hole, Newton

St Petrock EX22 7LW, £2 per session, bring your own project or try something new, contact 07853 319 250 or owlbarnstudio@btinternet.com English Folk Dancing 8pm every Fri @ Northam Village Hall with Bideford Ceilidh Club. Info John 01237 476632 Writers Poets & Listeners every first Thursday 7.30pm Conservative Club Tarka Valley Railway. Volunteers meet every Thursday from 9am till about 3pm at Torrington Station (the Puffing Billy), unless weather is appalling. Variety of tasks. 07881 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.

HEALTH, SPORT & FITNESS (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training above TVSC, Mondays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 11+ 7.15-9pm seniors; Tuesdays 6.307.30pm juniors age 8-11, 7-8.30pm ladies boxfit. Wednesdays 6.30-8pm carded boxers only; Thursdays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 8-11, 7-8.30pm ladies boxfit; Fridays 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 11+, 7.159pm seniors Running club every Monday & Wednesday at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm every Wednesday Wendy’s Fitness for Life classes every Thursday at the Scout Hall Gas Lane 07787 607 322 Slimming World Join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street. Every Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Lisa 07515 256 965. Every Thursday 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm.

Norah 07789 632 166. Junior Golf Training every Sat 9-10am @ Libbaton Golf Club Dolton Weight Loss Group every Saturday from 9.3010.30am in the small village hall. Contact Mary 01805 804421 or Emma 01805 603999 Fitness with Friends: Castle Community Centre Torrington, gentle exercise class, every Monday weekly in term time, 2 -3.30pm, £3 donation, 01805 622666 Badminton Club every Tues 7-8pm juniors, adults 8-9pm @ High Bickington Community Centre 01769 561387 Short Mat Bowls 2-4pm every Mon & Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre. Indoor Short Mat Bowls club night every Monday from 6.30 in the clubhouse at the Bowling Green, Castle Street. All welcome.

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

Local Independent Florist Weddings • Funerals Giﬅ bouquets Ar�angements

Torrington Slimming World Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street • Every Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Lisa 07515 256 965

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

• Every Thursday 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Norah 07789 632 166

SUPPORT & FRIENDSHIP GROUPS Singing for health, for older people, those with dementia and their carers. 10.30am-12pm, Torrington Community Hospital. £1 donation per session. For details call 01805 622666. (First & third Wed of the month) Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Wed of the month 10.30am-12.30pm @ Phase 1 Common Room, Ethelwynne Brown Close, East the Water Bideford Men’s Shed: Football Club, School Lane 9am-12.30pm. Come and see us in action, every Tuesday & Thursday. Contact Dave on 07759 783 001 Memory Cafe 10.30am -12.30pm, Methodist Church at the top of Mill Street. Every second Thursday

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

CHILDREN’S CLUBS, TODDLER GROUPS & PRE-SCHOOLS 1st Torrington Rainbows at Torrington Rugby Club every Monday term time 6.15-7.15pm l torringtondistrictguiding@ talktalk.net 1st Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall every Mon term time 6.30-8pm Kathryn Masterson 01805 623212 torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net 1st Torrington Scout Group at Scout Hall every Mon term time 7.30-9pm Peter 01409 281246, email ashton. awslandfarm@gmail.com 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 1st Torrington Beavers and Cubs at Scout Hut, Gas Lane Tuesdays during term time 6-7.30pm, Fran Ashton 01409

281246. Email ashton.awslandfarm@gmail.com Youth Club for 11+ 5-7pm @ High Bickington Community Centre ALLSORTS Children’s Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 6.30-8pm. School years 1-6. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 ALLSORTS Plus Youth Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 8-9.15pm. School years 6 and upwards. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 Little Otters Baby & Toddler Group, every Friday, 9am11.30am, at The Clinton Hall, Merton Little Fishes Toddler Group at Baptist Church every Thurs term time 9.30am -11.30am £1.50 per family. Jill 01805 624387 Toddler Group 9.30-11am every Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre Torridgeside Saturday Football Fun Club - 10am - 11am in the Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School MUGA. Every Saturday. Little Frogs sessions Mon – Fri 8.45am-3.45pm term time, Gas Lane, Torrington, contact - 07870 509 674 Little Otters Pre-School, at The Clinton School, Merton MonThurs, 9am till 3.30pm, with lunch club 12–1pm, term time. For more details 01805 603357 e:admin@clinton.devon.sch. uk

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

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.

December 2017 Friday 1st

Christmas Tree Festival St.Petroc’s Church Petrockstowe, see article on page 9 Abbeyfield Christmas Coffee Morning 10.30am-12 noon, Glen Tor, Villa Road, all welcome Plough Original Gifts Exhibition in The Gallery preview Wed 29th Nov 7pm, runs until Dec 23rd, also Artists’ Wall Exhibition – Anne Dennehy. Plough Theatre: Quirk Theatre ‘Lucy & The Lost Ones’ 10:30am & 1pm Plough Film: Bladerunner 2049 (15) 8pm

Saturday 2nd

Great Torrington’s Grinch-Mas Fayre & Lights Switch On 1pm onwards Christmas Fair St Michael and All Angels Parish Church 10am-3pm in the church Exmoor Carolers Concert at St Peters Church, Tawstock 7.30pm tickets £7.50 to include refreshments. Elaine 01271 858306, 07599 259617 or email elainesmallridge@hotmail.com for tickets or more details Free Parking Day all TDC Car Parks Plough Theatre: Quirk Theatre, ‘Lucy & The Lost Ones’ 1:30pm & 4pm Plough Film: The Death of Stalin (15) 8pm Plough Music: Emily Maguire at The

George Hotel, South Molton 8pm 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 3rd

K9 Focus Christmas Market & Dog Show at Torrington Pannier Market, visit www.k9focus.co.uk for details. Torrington Baptist Church, 10.30am Preacher Mark Stanbury St Michael’s Great Torrington 6.30pm Advent Vigil Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Elsie Potter, 6.30pm Rev Rob Blackhall Plough Music: The London Klezmer Quartet 7:30pm

Tuesday 5th

Plough Music: Barb Jungr sings Bob Dylan 8pm

Wednesday 6th

Plough Film: Buena Vista Social Club: Adios (PG)

Thursday 7th

Tarka Valley Railway working day Plough Satellite Screening: NT Live Young Marx 7pm

Friday 8th

Christmas Distribution of Vouchers at The Plough, 9.30am-2pm. Please see posters around the town for further information. Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity. Little Torrington Dinner Dance, see article in Christmas section. Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School Christmas Fayre 5:307:30pm Plough Music: Elles Bailey & Band 8pm

Saturday 9th

Exmoor Carolers Concert at St James

Church, Ashreigney 7pm tickets £6 ( 3 for children, u11s free) in advance from Rosella 01769 520591 or Marion 01769 520219 or on the door. Concert followed by refreshments in the village hall. Santa at Tarka Valley Railway 2-4pm, £5 per child. Booking essential 01805 623050 Friends of Torrington Library Christmas Treats 10am until noon, mince pies and chocolates! Food Bank collection & donations welcome by Torrington Rotary, in the Square. Free parking in Sydney House Car Park from 8am-12 noon (always free from noon onwards) Girlguiding Beaford’s Christmas Fair Little Torrington village hall 2-4pm Plough Film: The Death of Stalin (15) 8pm

Sunday 10th

Torrington Baptist Church, 10.30am Preacher Dick Chamings Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion, 6.30pm Rev Lynne Burgon Santa at Tarka Valley Railway 2-4pm, £5 per child. Booking essential 01805 623050 Plough Satellite Screening NT Live Follies (Encore) 3pm Plough Film: The Death of Stalin (15) 7pm

Monday 11th

Plough Films: Victoria & Abdul (PG) 5:30pm; Thor: Ragnarok (12A) 8pm

Tuesday 12th

Little Torrington WI Victory Hall, 7.30pm, ‘Let’s get ready for Christmas’ with Ann Ford and Mary Cobbledick, visitors welcome. Plough Film: Victoria & Abdul (PG) 8pm

REGULAR CHURCH SERVICES

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

Wednesday 13th

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

down 7.30pm Christmas Craft Fair, Puffing Billy, 10.30am till 4pm, jewellery, books wooden items & more. Free parking in Sydney House Car Park from 8am-12 noon (always free from noon onwards) North Devon Choral Society Bach’s Thursday 14th Christmas Oratorio, 7pm, at Church Grand Christmas Bingo - St. Giles of St Michael & All Angels, Torrington. in the Wood Parish Hall. Eyes down Tickets and information from Janet 7.30pm. Fantastic meat and poultry Sharp 01805 628262, or www. prizes plus festive hampers and goodies. northdevonchoral.org.uk. Mystery draw prizes. Great fun evening! Plough Film: A Caribbean Dream (PG) Contact Sherrie Turner 01805 623446. 8pm GTS Annual Christmas Concert, Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival 7pm St Michael & All Angels Church. Committee Christmas Coffee Morning Everyone welcome TVSC10am-1pm 50p entry (includes tea Tarka Valley Railway volunteers working or coffee & a biscuit) day Sunday 17th Plough Film: Breathe (12A) 8pm Torrington Christmas Caper Race at Friday 15th Torrington Rugby Club, with registration Torrington Silver Band Christmas starting from 9.30am, and the race Concert at Howe Concert Hall, 7.30pm starting at 11am Light up a Life service CHSW Torrington Baptist Church, celebrate Torrington Methodist Church 7pm the Nativity in a different way 10.30am. Plough Films: Breathe (12A) 5pm; Thor: Carol and Christingle Service St Giles’, Ragnarok (12A) 8pm Little Torrington 6.30pm Carol and Christingle Service SS Mary Saturday 16th & Gregory’s, Frithelstock 2.30pm Torrington Silver Band Christmas Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Bingo at Howe Concert Hall, 7pm, eyes Great Torrington WI Methodist Rooms 7pm, Christmas crafts with members. Carol Service followed by refreshments, St Mary Magdalene’s, Taddiport 6.30pm Plough Film: Call Me By Your Name (15) 8pm

Della Bealey, 6.30pm Rev Rob Blackhall carol service Plough Theatre: The Last Baguette present ‘The Little Match Girl’ 2:30pm Plough Film: A Caribbean Dream (PG) 8pm

Monday 18th

Plough Film: Gauguin - Voyage de Tahiti 8pm

Tuesday 19th

Plough Workshop: Fingerprint Christmas Card Making at Guildhall, Barnstaple 10am-12noon

Wednesday 20th

Carols by Candlelight St Michael’s, Great Torrington 7pm Plough Drama Workshop: ‘The Polar Express’ Play in a Day for 7-12yrs at Guildhall, Barnstaple 10am-4pm Plough Film: Gauguin - Voyage de Tahiti 8pm

Thursday 21st

Plough Theatre: The Peoples Theatre Co present ‘Santa in Love’ a family show for 2yrs+ 2:30pm Plough Theatre: David Mynne performs Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ at The George Hotel, South Molton 8pm Plough Poetry/Spoken Word: Apples

K. Sheppard

Est 1988

North Devon Landscaping

We offer a full landscaping service for:

•Traditional drystone walling • Paving • Block paving • Fencing and gates •All digger work • Seeding and turfing Professional year round landscaping Trevor Andrews Email: north_devon_landscaping@ hotmail.co.uk Mob: 07964 558 703

Plasterer

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

01805 603016

and Snakes presents ‘Call of the Wild’ at St Anne’s Arts & Community Centre, Barnstaple 8pm

Torrington Methodist Church 10am Rev Rob Blackhall

Friday 22nd

PLough Films: Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool (15) 4pm; Murder on the Orient Express (12A) 8pm

Wednesday 27th

Free parking Sydney House Car Park Plough Drama Workshop: ‘The Polar Express’ ‘Play in a Day’ for 7-12yrs10amThursday 28th 4pm Plough Films: Murder on the Orient Plough Theatre: David Mynne Charles Express (12A) 3pm; Film Stars Don’t Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ 8pm Die in Liverpool (15) 5:30pm; Call Me By Your Name (15) 8pm Saturday 23rd Exmoor Carolers Concert at The Friday 29th Plough Torrington 3pm tickets £8 from Plough Films: Murder on the Orient The Plough, 01805 624624 or www. theploughartscentre.org to include glass Express (15) 5pm; Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool (15) 8pm of wine & a mince pie Cavaliers’ traditional Christmas grotto Saturday 30th and giveaway Town Hall under croft 10- Plough Film: Murder on the Orient 1pm Express (15) 8pm Free parking in Sydney House Car Park from 8am-12 noon (always free Sunday 31st from noon onwards) Cavaliers’ New Year’s Eve Disco in the Torrington Baptist Church, Carols by Square 7pm onwards Candlelight 6pm Torrington Baptist Church, Preacher Loraine Eade th

Sunday 24

Christmas Eve St Michael’s Great Torrington 6pm Crib Service, 11.30pm Midnight Mass SS Mary & Gregory’s, Frithelstock 11am Holy Communion Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am L.A., 11.15pm Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion

Monday 25th

Christmas Day St Michael’s Great Torrington 10am Sung Mass St Mary Magdalene’s Taddiport 9am Holy Communion St Giles’, Little Torrington 8am Holy Communion Torrington Baptist Church we will meet with the Methodist Church

FEBRUARY CRIER COPY DEADLINE 11TH JANUARY 2018

Due to all regular events now having their own section, there weren’t enough January entries received to warrant inclusion, apologies for any inconvenience caused. Please get in touch if you would like anything featured on our Facebook page. Thank you.

FOOD BANK

07813 257 471

Great Torrington Bowling Club

ur Club enjoyed a very successful outdoor season. Our Charity Cup day saw Children’s Hospice South West benefit by £350. Our members earned a number of successes, but mainly we enjoyed our bowling and companionship. Notably Tina Payne, Jean Ward, Kath Toogood and Elaine Clements won the County Rinks Section. Elaine Clements reached the unbadged Singles Section Final. Fred Niven and Brian Clements reached the County Finals in the unbadged pairs. Our AGM in November was extremely well attended. Currently Short Mat bowling in the clubhouse is in full swing. Please join us on Monday evenings from 6.30pm for an introduction/taster evening. Bowls will be provided. Finally you may have seen our club featured on Channel 4 Coast vs Country on 8th November. We send greetings for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. www.greattorringtonbowlingclub.co.uk. John Pitts (Secretary) 01805 439100

Food Bank 10am-12pm every Sat @ Castle Hill, (1st floor) Torrington; 10am-12pm every Tues @ Baptist Church. Drop off points in the Parish Church, Methodist Church, Co-op or Tourist Information Centre in Castle Hill, or during Food Bank opening times. Confidential contact details:- Shirley Beer 01805 623887, Dave Martin 01805 623175

PetStay Devon - a Loving & Caring Alternative to Kennels Kenwyn Can Help Ensure Your Stove is Safe & Find the Perfect Gifts Too!

ith the cold weather upon us, it is an important time of the year to check the safety of your wood burning or multi-fuel stove to keep it in good condition. We recommend that you sweep your chimney at least annually if you’re burning wood or approved smokeless fuels. Failing to do so, can lead to a build-up of creosote in your chimney and cause chimney fires. It is important to check that the rope seals on your stove door(s) are in good order, and that the baffle plate inside your stove is in the right position and not warped or rusted. Check that the flue from your stove is also in good condition, and that it is sealed properly. Ensure that you have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted in your room, and that it is working. We stock a wide range of rope seals, high temperature rope adhesive, stove thermometers, carbon monoxide alarms and stove paints to keep your stove in perfect condition. We are HETAS registered installers, and can visit you in your home to offer a free estimate to install chimney liners, alter fireplaces, fit wood and multi-fuel stoves and even twin wall flue systems, if you don’t have a chimney. We can advise whether your chimney complies with Building Regulations or not. We also stock a wide range of home and gift wares such as beautiful Fair Trade mirrors, clocks and unusual gifts for your friends and family. We have an extensive range of Emma Bridgewater collections, including trays, aprons, oven gloves and cake tins. Pay us a visit for a warm welcome in the warmest shop in Great Torrington!

Winkleigh Cider - Try Sam’s Mulled Cider this Christmas!

e produce high quality ciders and scrumpies in the heart of Devon, using traditional production methods and cider apples that come from within a 25 mile radius of our site; the juice is then matured in our 100 year-old oak vats for a minimum of 24 weeks. We have an onsite gift shop, with lots of Christmas hampers on offer along with local produce and gifts. All our range of Sam’s Ciders are available for tasting. For something extra special, our Sam’s Mulled Cider is a must for those cold winter nights. Come and see us and sample our range. Winkleigh Cider Company, Hatherleigh Road, Winkleigh, Devon, EX19 8AP Tel: 01837 83560, email: nfo@winkleighcider.co.uk, visit: www.winkleighcider.co.uk

etStay have been offering their home dog boarding service across the UK since 2005, providing a loving, safe, home environment for your dog(s) when you go on holiday. When we receive an enquiry, we take details about your dog(s) and carefully match them to one of our trusted dog carers who have been handpicked by us. We then organise a no-obligation meeting at the carer’s home to make sure you and your dog(s) are happy with the carer we have chosen. All PetStay carers are passionate about dogs. They are at home during the day with plenty of time for walks, play and cuddles. They will treat your dog(s) as part of the family, and follow all your normal routines. We do not mix dogs from different households, so the holiday booking is exclusive to you. All our carers are fully vetted, licensed and insured, so you can be sure that all the necessary safeguards are in place to give you complete peace of mind when you go away. Could You Be a PetStay Carer? Do you have what it takes to be a carer? Please get in touch to find out more. For further information, please contact Lynda on 01392 984684 or email devon@petstay.net or visit the website www.petstay.net.

Winter servicing: FREE local collection for ride on mowers Unit 2C Hatchmoor Industrial Estate Torrington EX38 7HP Open Tues to Sat

01805 938 947 www.torringtongardenmachinery.co.uk

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

am delighted to announce the launch of our Alumni page on our website and Facebook group. We are hoping that former GTS pupils will be interested in how their ‘old’ school has developed, what is new and what is just the same as when they were here! There is, of course, much that has changed over the years; the staff, the buildings, maybe the subjects we teach and how we deliver the curriculum and much more. We would like former pupils to reconnect with their old school, find out what we are doing and, if possible, come back and visit us. We would love to be able to utilise the skills and experience of former pupils for the benefits of today’s pupils. It would be great to know where former pupils are now in their chosen career paths, and be able to showcase their achievements. We are hosting a very special Christmas tea party in December, for all past pupils who would have attended the school between 1939-1950. It would be an opportunity for you to look round your ‘old’ school and reminisce and share your memories with us. If you would be interested in joining us, please contact Mrs Louise Leonard at the school. I also recommend that those of you that use social media can follow us on Twitter @GTSDevon and Facebook @ GreatTorringtonSchool as we regularly update with our news. Please spread the word! Tracey Amos, Head Teacher GTSAlumni@gts.devon.sch.uk

British Native Wild Flowers to Grow in Your Garden - Ilex aquifolium

therwise known as Holly, this is an iconic Christmas favourite and a native shrub or small(ish) tree that can suit all gardens, great and small. There are many cultivars of I. aquifolium and also many species, and RHS Garden Rosemoor holds a national collection, some of which hardly resemble what we recognise as a Holly! It’s certainly worth investigating. However, our native Holly has plenty to merit growing it in our gardens. It is very hardy, will grow in full sun or light shade in almost any soil type, but preferring rich and moist conditions. Little or no pruning is required as it is fairly slow growing, unless you want it to remain small and bushy, then trim back the strongest shoots when necessary. Of course, if you are using Holly for Christmas decorations, that in itself can constitute light pruning. The foliage needs little describing, being evergreen, stiff and leathery, glossy dark green and very prickly! The flowers appear in clusters during May-July and are white-ish but it is, of course, the berries that make the Holly look so beautiful in winter, being bright scarlet, standing out amongst the dark leaves. Most of the popular varieties reach a height of between 3.5 metres (11 feet) after five years or so, but a mature tree can reach more than 20 feet (6.5m). Interestingly, the leaves at the top of a mature tree are frequently less prickly so, clearly, the prickles are there to deter grazing animals! Holly also makes an excellent hedging plant forming a dense, impenetrable barrier. There are now many very attractive cultivars, some with variegated leaves, or with hardly any prickles and some have yellow berries. Remember, though, that you should ensure that you have one female and one male plant either in the garden or nearby, since the Holly has male and female parts on separate plants (dioecious). Fleur

Hair Cut for Little Princess Trust and Sensory Room!

hank you for the amazing turn out for Effie’s charity hair cut! Effie had her locks cut off at school and thanks to everyone’s generosity will have raised over £400, to be shared among the Little Princess Trust and the school Sensory Room. The hair itself will be used to make a wig for a child that has lost their own hair through undergoing cancer treatment. Well done Effie – what a star! Monkleigh Primary School

The 12 Dangers of Christmas!

he festive period brings excitement and joy to many, but for your pets it can bring some dangers! * Christmas tree needles are very sharp and can easily get stuck in your pet’s paws or throat, so try and sweep up fallen tree needles regularly. * Chocolate is highly toxic, and your pet will be tempted if he can see and smell it, especially if it’s hanging from your tree! Remember, wrapped food parcels under the tree may be disguised from our eyes, but our pets will be able to smell them through the wrapping paper. * With all the beautiful fairy lights at Christmas there also comes the great quantity of electrical cords, try to keep these out of reach or covered so your pet can’t chew them and electrocute himself, and try using fairy lights that don’t flash, as some pets, when up close, can get very scared by these. * Remember loud noises will panic your pet, such as Christmas crackers, poppers, balloons, and champagne bottles, so make sure they have somewhere to retreat to away from it all if they want to. * Remove your Christmas wrapping paper (and toys) from the floor to avoid your pet chewing or swallowing it. * For your pet’s safety this Christmas, always buy their presents from a reputable pet shop or veterinary clinic. * Will you be spending your holidays at home or away? Leaving your pets at home will require the help of a responsible (and sober!) friend or neighbour to visit, feed and care for them. * Some seasonal plants such as holly, poinsettia, ivy and mistletoe are all extremely toxic, so please plan carefully when you’re busy decking out your halls as these need to be kept well out of reach. * Brightly-coloured baubles and tantalizing tinsel are new and exciting objects for pets, who’ll most likely try to eat them and cause them all sorts of internal problems. Cats and young pets especially, will show a great interest in decorations hanging from your tree. * Another common and extreme danger at this time of year is anti-freeze; very palatable to cats, it will cause irreversible kidney failure if your cat even just licks his paws after walking through a puddle of the stuff, so be warned and check all outside areas and garages today. We hope you and your pets have a very merry Christmas! Hatchmoor Vets

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t the November meeting Sarah Jane ran a craft session making decorative Christmas Cards. We are now all looking forward to Christmas lunch at the Torrington Arms, on Thursday 7th December. Just a reminder that you can access a lot of information on our website which is at www.greattorringtonmemorycafe.org. uk There are links to other sites which people with dementia and their carers might find useful. We are always looking for volunteers, so if you would like to join a dedicated team, and can spare two hours a month, then contact me and I can give you more information about the role. People who attend the cafe are from all walks of life and of varying ages. Some people may have had a recent diagnosis of dementia, whilst others may be worried about their memory and want advice. People who attend find that they continue to come along, and value the cafe for its welcoming, informal and relaxed atmosphere. The café offers a listening ear, and a couple of hours break from the regular routine. If you or a family member are affected by memory loss, then do come along and get a warm welcome from everyone at the café, as well as getting support and information. For further information then please contact Pauline on 01805 625969.

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

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

Down on the Farm - A North Devon Short Film Commission Interested? Get in Touch!

armers, film makers and local communities are being invited to show their support for a landmark creative heritage project in North Devon. Local community film making organisation, North Devon Moving Image CIC (NDMI), is making plans to launch an exciting new film commission which will create a series of short documentary films about farmers and farming in northern Devon. Creative Director of NDMI, Amanda McCormack says “Down on the Farm will be a unique chance for the farming community to share their stories with the wider world. Our Boat Stories films have been immensely popular and that project demonstrated the value of preserving and sharing local heritage on film. We now want to do for farming what Boat Stories did for fishing and ‘Down on the Farm’ is set to do that.” Amanda adds “Part of our remit at NDMI is to support film makers, both in North Devon and the wider creative community throughout the UK. This commission will provide an exciting opportunity (and the money - £1,000 per film) for six emerging or experienced film makers to develop and exhibit their individual artistic and narrative skills.” Before NDMI can apply for funding they are seeking written support for the project. Amanda says she would like to hear from: • farming families who would like to be the subject of a film • volunteers interested in local agricultural heritage who will support the film makers with research and contact with farmers • film makers who would like to apply for a commission • film tutors who believe this is a great opportunity for film production students • members of the local community who would love to see the films made. To find out more visit www.northdevonmovingimage.org.uk/down-on-thefarm.html and if you would like to show your support you can email Amanda at northdevonmovingimage@outlook.com, write to North Devon Moving Image, 2 Cullamartin, Instow, Bideford, Devon EX39 4LU or visit the NDMI website and complete the contact form.

Please Don’t Feed the Birds in the Parish Churchyard

e would respectfully ask that no food is put out for birds on the grass in the churchyard, as we have had a serious problem with rats. This has resulted in considerable expense to eradicate the rodents and we are doing everything we can to prevent a re-occurrence. Thank you.

Abbeyfield

esidents have enjoyed outings to the Merry Harriers Garden Centre for Christmas shopping and coffee and The Burton Art Gallery in Bideford, accompanied by volunteers. They organised a trip together to the Plough, to see the film Victoria and Abdul. In-house they heard Vivienne Sheriff speak about her time as a missionary, and enjoyed an afternoon making Christmas crackers to sell at our Christmas coffee morning on Friday December 1st. It will be held at Glen Tor, Villa Road from 10.30am12pm and everyone is welcome for a hot drink and mince pie for just £1. We are looking forward to a Christmas meal at The Royal in Bideford, and the Crediton Church Christmas Tree Festival – always a good day out! The Christmas and New Year celebrations in the house are always very special and the house beautifully decorated. Do you know anyone who might like to find out more about living here in the future, with our friendly and active residents? Why not ring our house manager on 01805 623605 for a chat and perhaps arrange a visit to meet with her, or speak to her at the coffee morning.

jumble sales in the hall on 11 May.

proceeds for the Methodist and Parish

Torrington and Hatherleigh. EX20

Community Information In Memory of Torrington Centre Community Poet Eric Sydney SmithInformation (opposite House Car Park,

His Secondnext Anthology to 'Panamart') Centre orrington's First We are delighted to announce that (opposite Sydney House Car Park, the 'Esteem' group to support those Thursday Writers' next to 'Panamart') suffering with mental health difficulties, Group have enjoyed We are delighted to announce that depression, fatigue, or anxiety reading the second the 'Esteem' groupcollection - pain to support those has been awarded grants from the ofsuffering poems by their late friend, with mental health difficulties, Rural Devon Trust (through the Devon and fellow member, Eric Smith. depression, fatigue, pain or anxiety Community Foundation) and from has grants Eric been died inawarded June, at the age from the Awards For All. Devon Trust (through the ofRural 87, lived long enough toDevon see Wehaving can now buy laptops, enabling Community Foundation) from his anthology of verseand print. thesecond group to use the internet ininorder to Awards Forabecome All. help them anmixture integrated Comprising delightful of and We can now laptops, enabling accepted part of buy our community. They poems, which illustrate Eric's vision of the group to use the internet in order will be able to engage a support worker the countryside, his humorous take on to to assist with form-filling, producing a help them become integrated and everyday life, and his an trials with modern CV, searching courses accepted part offor oureducation community. technology, make this slim volume aThey andbewill betoable to search forworker local will able engage support superb stocking filler forathose who like voluntary or paid work. Theproducing group hasa to assist with form-filling, todrop-in take their poetry in the old fashioned days three times a week, (see CV, searching for education courses way. diary)will which include 'listening and be able to asearch for ear', local A few copies Poetry for Pleasure someone fromofthe community who is voluntary or paid work. The group has happy to sit and price chat, £5, for those are still available, from feeling drop-in days three times a week, (see lonely andEaston low. on 01805 622688. Stephanie diary) include a 'listening ear', The which Centre also offers legal All money raised will go to thefree North someone from the community who is advice, and tenancy and debt advice, Devon Hospice. happy to sit and chat, those feeling by appointment, (seefor diary). Rev. Stephanie Easton lonely andSlingo low. comes Graham in for a coffee Thechat, Centre also offers freea book legal and and we have started advice, tenancy and(read debt aadvice, club forand young people book Extended Opening overappointment, a week or fortnight by (seeHours diary). for Rev. then come in and chat Graham Slingo comesDevon in for a coffee RELATE in North about itELATE over a North drink and and chat, and in we haveDevon startedis a book cakes) onyoung Thursdays after club forpleased (read book topeople announce thata they s c h oao l week / c o l l eor g e fortnight . On over have extended their opening Saturdays, gents canchat sit then in and hours atcome thewith Centre in Barnstaple. and read a coffee, or about it over a drink and Clients can be seen Tuesday, buy books from ouroncharity cakes) on and Thursdays after Wednesday Thursday evenings as bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their s c h o o l / c o l l e g e . well as in the day time. O n Saturdays, gents can sit an To contact RELATE or make and read with a coffee, appointment, please phoneor0300 buy books from our charity 7729681 or go via our website www. bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their relate-ed.org.uk.

carnival queen and her attendants. Dolton’s three pubs are all expected harles Copp was born ininto Ilfracombetoinbenefit 1889. His the carnival atmosphere meetings, 4pm, through carnival from queen and her attendants. wives shopafter to their hearts’ content! the father, Thomas Copp, who was originally anfrom influx three of visitors. be a evenings on most days, andtoalso pubsThere are allwill expected The Centre is available hire on for and Dolton’s Roborough, was a small ‘coachevents proprietor’; hisbenefit mother, trampoline, fish and chips, occasional Saturdays for to from the carnival atmosphere meetings, after 4pm, through into the roundabout, Edith, was born in Bideford. census has an theinflux family and candy wagon. or training days. Please see Kiz and of visitors. There will be a evenings on most days, The and 1901 also or on barbecue, email: living at kizangell@btconnect.com 109 High Street, for Ilfracombe. The family also includes roundabout, trampoline, fish and chips, occasional Saturdays small events wives shop to their hearts’ content! Lance Corporal Charles Copp The Centre is available to hire for

hisorthree brothers, Thomas and or Arthur.barbecue, Your Vote Counts! and candy wagon. training days.Ernest, Please see Kiz st Charity Xmas Cards & Gifts 1 Torrington Scouts have registered By 1911 Charles remained in North Devon and moved email: kizangell@btconnect.com CardsTorrington. for goodHis causes and Fair as ‘Moortown with Nat West Community Force, to Great address is listed Your Voteinvites Counts! TradeGreat gifts will be on sale in St. Mary’s people to st Farm’, Torrington. At this point, his occupation is as awhich Charity Xmas Cards & Gifts nd 1 Torrington Scouts have registered November to church Bideford from 2 vote for a local charity/ smallholder and good foreman on the and farm.Fair His father, is for withThomas, Nat West Force, December, Mondaycauses to Friday 10am7th Cards causeCommunity of their choice, also resident, although his mother isn’t on the census list andwhich invites people to Trade gifts will be on sale in St. Mary’s 4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm. Over 30 with the winner and two nd she remains Ilfracombe. November church Bideford from 2cards a plocalb echarity/ charities to living selectin your from andto r uvote n n e for rs-u ing th th Charles enlisted with the 1/6 Devons December, Monday toof Friday 10am7 causePlease of theirgochoice, an interesting selection gifts from in Barnstaple awarded ina grant. to August 1914, the10am-1pm. outbreak of the war. held the serial number 2221 and and two 4pm, parts Saturday Over 30He www.communityforce.natwest.com/ with the winner many ofatthe world. th projects/ andthe type the rank of to Lance Corporal. On 9from October under orders charities select your cards and 1914, r u1nstnTorrington eofr sthe - u wider p Scout being th Group into the project name box, an interesting selection of gifts from awarded a grant. Please go to Devon andDolton Cornwall Brigade, they set sail for India; they landed in Karachi on 11 Carnival register and vote for us. Please get as many parts of plan the world. November. The was for thembands to be basedwww.communityforce.natwest.com/ in Lahore and engaged in internal Flaming torches, drummers, many of your and family records toScout do Torrington projects/ andfriends type 1st security operations, whicha would be non-combat duties. However, and fireworks will give small effectively Devon so as well, as if we project are successful we Group into the name box, village a blaze of publicity show a number of officers volunteered for assignments that would see combat, and Dolton Carnival will be able to vote continue our Please program of register and for us. get next month. wereFlaming subsequently attached to other regiments. In Charles’ case, he was attached to torches, drummers, bands refurbishment to Scout HQ, not onlyas nd Dolton’s annual carnival, many of your friends and family to do the 2 Dorsetshire Battalion. and fireworks will give a small Devon benefitting the Scout group, but all which fight datesatback to Victorian so aswho well, as commenced if we are successful Charles would the Battle of Ctesiphion. attack on the we villagewilla be blaze of Fawkes publicity thoseThe hire the hall. times, on Guy will be able to continue our nd 22 November 1915 with a night assault. There were a few mishaps inFran theprogram early Ashton of Nnext i g h month. t, Saturday 5th refurbishment to Scout HQ, not only fighting, likeNovember, troops getting lostgives incarnival, the the dark hours, but otherwise the Anglo-Indian Dolton’s annual which benefitting the Scout group, forces werefestivities able todates overrun the first of of the enemy trench lines on the first night.but Theall which tospark Victorian an back extra those who hire the hall. times, be on Guy Fawkes following night sawwill a counter-offensive by the Turks in anto attempt retake the lost Ode DerektoStamp interest this year. Fran Ashton N i g h they tGent, , were S one a t unot rofd a y key 5 t h the ground. Although successful, casualties Derek Stamp iswere 60, huge, with 40% of Farmer Ralph the A milestone his life, figures behind thekilled Dowland country fair November, which gives the servicemen being or injured, this equated to aroundin4,500 men. At this point, comethey this were far together andknowing dog show June, is organising festivities an spark of And we’vewhilst and thereinwas no extra chance of reinforcements, far more likely As devoted man and wife. the spectacular finale in which £1,600Ode to Derek Stamp interest this year. for the Turks, the British forces opted to retreat back to Kut. worth of fireworks will light upof the night Derek Stamp is 60, the Battle of Farmer Ralph one key Reports show thatGent, Charles was the killed in engagements following always there tolife, hold my hand, sky. A milestone in his figures behind thewithdrawal Dowland country fair He’s Ctesiphion and the to Kut. These reports tell that heI’m was injured in the And kiss me come when sad, Thedog Pipe & Drum Band, Samba And we’ve this far and show in June, is organising th together fighting in early December and died of his wounds on December 12 My soul mate for so many1915. years, Band and Torrington Allstar Majorettes As devoted man and wife. the spectacular finale is in remembered which £1,600Lance Corporal Copp on the Great Torrington Best friend I’ve everwar had.memorial, as will all be taking part in the parade worth of fireworks will light up the night well as the Ilfracombe has no known grave, but his name is listed on through the village, memorial. along with He many He’s to hold my hand, sky. We metalways when Ithere was “just 18”, brightly-lit floats, including this year’s the Amara War Cemetery in Iraq. And kiss me when I’m sad,New Buildings or Ren The Pipe & Drum Band, Samba R.PITTS Sadly, in my research, I have been unable trace any descendants. Of course, I am Then call y My soul mate for so many years, Band and Torrington Allstar Majorettes “BUILDING RENOVATIONS” Friendl keen to hear from any to learn more & about his life. Best friend I’ve ever had. will all be taking part in the parade Rola To learn more about the life of Charles Copp, please go to www. through the village, along with many New Buildings or Renovations? greattorringtonremembers.co.uk. You may also wish to ‘like’ the Facebook page. New Buildings WeTel: met01805 when I was “just 18”, brightly-lit floats, including this year’s Then call your Local New Buildings or R 624665 Michael Newcombe R.PITTS R.PITTS cal Mob:We 07812 067199 The are a Friendly family run business Builder Then “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Frie specialising in all types of “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” R.PITTS

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It sounds a long way off seen. Roe deer seem to be thriving But please make a diary note amongst our 18 mammals, but the To come and share the things we do success of the adder in our four The imaginative tote Latin in Gardening reptiles is not popular with some. of all theof town’s societies hy do we still use a ‘dead’ toApart be anfrom accurate way of meetings categorising all number well-known plants and also occasional with their commitment forThis theirresearch roles language to name plants, this material. to their regrouping. is onwasp nests, we know little about our Parkinson’s, and caring surely, the common name will insect In 1753, Carl Linnaeus published going and may yet cause more confusion population together with other Alarms and Football goals News suffice? So,Common while you are digesting your his work ‘Species Plantarum’, one of for us gardeners! invertebrates,. Golf and Exhibitions On The Common we have Christmas turkey and trying desperately the most important works inwould biologybeofa Especially interesting Societies for youth identified 300of species of wild that survey of our ponds aand streams, not to nod offover in front the mother-inperiod. He created system of Fleur And many more, all so worthwhile flowers. There must be some that we this wouldplants also into provide information law, let’s find out why Latin is still so organising categories, so that Truly I say, forsooth have missed, but due to their someone Foetal Alcohol Spectrum regardingcould waterfind quality and pollution. important to us gardeners. and name a plant 7 for 7.30 prominence when flowering, the list I know that Torrington Junior School We already refer to many well-loved simply by its characteristics. He gave Wednesday, December 7 Disorder Local Group must by betheir fairlyLatin complete. pupilsknown usedplant to regularly stream plants names without every a binomialgo(two-part) Torridge Vale Social Club Drinking during pregnancy can cause Theabout Treeit,Trail contains 52 kinds name dipping. schools must have thinking eg: Penstemon, and Other this became the universally Enjoy a bittoofthe local heaven. foetus. This damage developing of native Fuchsia, trees and we have used theway fineofhabitats explore Delphinium, Crocosmia, to 21 accepted definingtoplants and the is VJT can affect the child in a range of ways, introduced species on other parts of still ecology the Plants area. Can have name just a few. We gardeners certainly in use of today. were we grouped including a wide range of behavioural The Common. WeLatin, know of 40 into yourfamily, discoveries please? are not afraid of using are we? genus and species and most and learning difficulties which often In Remembrance different grasses, 11 sedges, nine of us are familiar with Michael Why, though, were plants given Latin these Collingham groupings. Lord the Ponsonby wasfrustrated an absolute leave child feeling and rushes and 15 ferns. We do however names in the first place? In the past, Plants were listed by Genus (always tartar who made his servants live an different, and their families and carers have much more limited knowledge all scholars were required to speak with a capital letter) and species (in absolute dog's life. His harshest struggling. about other types of plant. A list and Latin fluently and to use the language lower case) and described specific treatment wasLink reserved faithful FASD Trust Groupforforhis Devon guide to fungi is underway, but any butler Whibble. It was “Whibble get to describe scientific procedures and, characteristics such as leaf shape, The FASD Trust have a network my additional information would be “Whibble, whisky!'' in fact, Latin forms the baseline of most colour of berries or flowers, the season it boots of linkoff!” groups acrossget theme UK,a which welcome – as in other areas such as Whibble this and Whibble that, all day western European languages. flowered, etc. Other names were given provide support to all those affected mosses, liverworts and lichens. long. One evening his lordship came However, as botanists began to to the person who discovered a plant, or by Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, Our diversity home from his club after a particularly research the native flora, it gradually who actually named it, orAthletic sponsored the including children and adolescents and Torrington Amateur Club’s of butterflies is lavish dinner and barked, “Whibble, run became clear that many plants had the expedition, and from where it Race originated. theira parents, and guardians. annual Christmas Caper on well known, with me bath!” Incarers due course he slipped same or similar names in different parts For example December nudiflorum 2011, startstells at Sunday 18th Jasminum A group of volunteers, allFeeling of whom 30 species gently into the soapy water. the ofdescribed. the country and some still have a us that this plant belongs to the 11am. Registration begins at Genus 9.30am who are currently children after-effects of hisparenting dinner, he passed great many, very localised names. For Jasmine a t T o and r r i nthe g t ospecies n R uisg ‘nudiflorum’ by Club diagnosed with FAS/FASD, haveofcome Especially wind in a manner reminiscent an See torringtonaac.org for further example, Honeysuckle has ten other which means naked flowers, so its name Icelandic together togeyser set up aand group for Devon, promptly fell welcome are the details. means common names, including ‘bindweed’, actually the naked flowered locatedJust in Barnstaple, the first meeting, sleep. then the door burst open Fritillaries, but the and Pulmonaria also has the common Jasmine! Indeed, the pretty pale yellow and Whibble stood, to attention, a getthere to know us coffee morning, is High Brown has Together Againon naked names ‘cowslip’ and ‘Jerusalem during winter with a hot bottle. planned to water take place on His 20th Lordship January not been recorded for ten sage’ years. flowers appear It’s thatthe time of theappearing year againlater in the amongst 24 others! This come causedand go, stems, leaves exploded, “Get out man, I didn't ring 2018. Eighty kinds of birds For you to remember considerable confusion amongst spring. and I don't you, goinaway”. If you arewant interested learning“I beg and as with national trends, some of th “Torrington Together” to differ sir, my hearing perfect. I scientists, there were many arguments During the latter part of the 19 and more about FASD and theisDevon these are becoming more rarely th On the the 7 Decemberadvances in distinctly heardemail you say, what about a about which name should be used into 20thofCenturies, group, please Alana Smith, and as man began to explore other technology set the foundations of modern Voluntary Link Co-ordinator, Devon at continents and brought back new plants botany, particularly with DNA analysis. fasdlinkcoordinatordevon@outlook. that needed to be described, there had This has resulted in the renaming of a com. Cedek Heating & Plumbing Services WHISKERS PET CENTRE

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Exciting Musical Opportunity for Early Years Music

luecoat C of E Primary School have been offered a wonderful opportunity to be involved in a funded research project facilitated by TakeArt, a pioneering arts charity providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience, participate and work within the arts. The project, ‘Soundwaves Extra’ is an innovative and exciting music network for the Early Years, promoting outstanding musical practice across the South West, offering a platform to reflect, share and debate the current early childhood music issues. The Musician in Residence, Rich Hughes, is an Early Years Music Facilitator based in Bristol, and will be visiting Bluecoat’s nursery on Monday afternoons throughout the autumn term to help staff research the question “How can practitioners support children’s musical play?” In order to minimise the disruption to the children, and for visitors to get the most out of their visit, places will be limited to four or five people per session. If any Early Years staff would like to come along from 1-3pm and find out more about the project, please contact Sarah Pester with your details and preferred session. There will be no charge for the visit. Email spester@ bluecoat-primary.org or telephone 01805 622333. You can find more information about the project at www.takeart.org/ soundwaves-extra.

The Café and Garden @1646

Massage treatments & sports therapy Christmas gift vouchers available

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l l Garden Fencing Mobile:-07775 096657 01805 622868 MOB: 07876 454361 l TEL: Hedge Laying Call David Lock EMAIL: davestegg@hotmail.co.uk l Stone Walling R.PITTS on 01805 603 541 l Pergolas e r i c pa l m e r c e n tr e , c a s t l e s tr e e t , t or r i n g t o n , E X 3 8 8 E Z Mobile 07854 816 066 l Patio (this could be as simple as a£1.blue depending on the season, may well be Torrington Rugby Club Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am £2 per child – under £1 – siblings Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Saturday 13th WinteratWonders at Rosemoor mushroom crate 1sturned upside down flowering thewith timeGeoffrey of 16 the walk. Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Price includes healthy snack & drink very mixed bag of opposition Advice Surgery Cox MP. here was a time when gardeners were reluctant to ask anything for of their Waterways Guided Walk carnival queen and herThe attendants. their content!Society st with a 10cm x dialect 10cm hole cut in one of the startearlier of the walk isto atthe Annery Morgan the children & hot drink for adults anhearts’ opportunity for variety of events on (and even a foroffer an appointment ring 01237 459001 or saw Torrington 1 XV playing out th in even times: Roman Devonian is strung across during the winter months; hardly stepping out betweenthere December The season's programme of pubs November will be a On the 16 and earned millions of dollars in royalties Dolton’s three are all garden expected is available tonew hire for Caruso Enrico The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Rebecca Leach 01769 560 685. the short sides a weight on top) Kiln, on the Weare Giffard road by email to tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox or via cross Torridge to be limited edition B10 beer!). th ofafternoon their skins, but starts unfortunately festival of Flora, goddess of fruit anda performance square – Barnstaple Torrington isaid known as a and February. We now expect all year round, which on the Sunday walks on 26 th lunch at in of ACWW, from the retail sales of the resulting to benefit from the carnival atmosphere erimportant 4pm,Day through into the Saints meet @ College which should stop anythislocal catsbetter Halfpenny Bridge, atsymbolizing 2.30pm rebirth on website www.geoffreycox.co.uk (25 February 1873 –been Devon Year 10The haveNorth workwith they do. Biosphere flowers. tradition, friendly town and is at no not winning any ofBideford their games May aBideford, visit toand the site of the th face of26 itThis is ain big ask, but do a islittle research andAssociated you would be surprised how the Country Women of the 78rpm discs. InaThe Italy in 1902-1903, he an influx of visitors. There will be most and Rd, also on nd Abbotsham EX39 3AR Thursday 18th Coffee Morning aid of Wembworthy May. distance little enjoying a free meal. Cat biscuits (not Sunday viting days, nominations for catchment area follows the water from is particularly relevant to us today, displayed than at the May Fair. In this era asked to write a perAugust 1921) 2 throughout October and the first game of Inclined Plane at Ridd. This is the much interest you can inject into your garden during the colder months. Here at is a World, of which the WI nationally cut five batches of records for the roundabout, trampoline, fish and chips, turdays for small events Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50amSt Michael's Church Said Mass Church @ Chulmleigh Town Hall 9-11am over a mile but with plenty to look at fish flavour) are an ideal food to put in new life into the winter of our of social isolation, the May Fair provides eservesNovember. to be2 recognised the source of thea Tawbreathing & Torridge rivers suasive review about Part place where Canal Rosemoor, Winter help find inspiration in choosing member. Not widely known, the G rand aproduce, m odiscuss p h we o n ehave alikely ndevised dappreciated T y ap e w rai t eTrail r theto 1pm barbecue, and candy wagon. ays. Please see Kiz the or Rolle cakes, prizes 10.30am in Styou James to take feeding station but please never and community. the medicine ofChapel friendship, inclusion eering. (and smaller rivers running into thedraw seais What a great shame there are no fair or festival for Our first game was against Saltash was raised up about 43 feet Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 3pm @ The ACWW has representatives from many Company. He was later heard live from plants to add structure, colour and scent to your garden in winter. ll@btconnect.com Major Walker MC Ceremony @ War Music Gaga: Rock Anthems 8pm @ The couple hours. Awith donation of of bread and milk can make community them Moreover, inofkeeping the spirit support. The as fairitencourages Volunteers Week 2013, alongassessment. the coast from Lynton to Hartdigital mastered recordings of Caruso. their GCSE English and a superb effort from the fromdespite the valley floor near Plough nationalities; working towards relief for of theThe stage the Opera Memorial 11am (see article) most valuable are fragrant plants, especially when placed along frequently £2 of to theMetropolitan Rolle Canal seriously Your Vote Counts! rejuvenation, children are the focal pointPlough life asill. the young and old joina together artnership with CATS land) down through the villages and One cannot imagine how wonderful his Weare Giffard to level Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @by The Plough Torrie boys; we losta 52-0. st Here is Charlotte’s timely reminderScouts Taddiport Tea 2-4.30pm details poverty and sickness, promoting health House inDance theMuch first public radio used path. Cultivars of Hamamelis, Viburnum x bodnantense and Daphne with of the festivities. against Mr Gove’s the common good. What better way is Society's funds will be If you find a hedgehog out during the mas Cards & Gifts 1 Torrington have registered ction through Sport) are towns ofHall north Devon out to622648 sea, to voice Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon inOur thewas. side of the valley next game should have been Doug 01805 or Beryl 01805 one such fair we should treasure. Friday 19th and advancing education. It’s down-tobroadcast in 1920. better wishes, Torrington’s there to bring neighbours together? showy, scented flowers are schools the helps best are candidates. appreciated and day, wobbling and unsteady or you’re good of causes and Fair with Nat West Community Force, esentation Evening on Lundy and beyond. Caruso’s 25-year career, stretching 8pm that could be maintained 624294 thein cup against Withycombe, but which Stworried Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am earth approach offers mutual support In thepeople next issue ISociety will you closed tolocally allow full tellto community People come from far and wide to enable the structure keep about one that visits your Evergreens bring to theabout garden and the best value plants are those l be 6-9pm, on in sale St. invites to ne at1895 theMary’s Pier The events 863 will be advertised from toinjury 1920, included all the way inland to the Film 'GreatofExpectations' 7.30pm @be morein St James nd Chapel with a growing and illness list and Mahonia practical help to women and some his operatic roles. participation. What could enjoy the delights of May Fair. They also Sending Out a Mayday volunteer work going to garden, place the hedgehog in a high that have more than one attribute. For example, cultivars have interesting November to rd from 2 vote for a local charity/ ard Ho!, and New via the new interactive B10 the Monday High Bickington Cinema head weir 8th at Rosemoor. 'Zion Train' 8pm @ Plough communities across the world. then good listening appealing than watching the crowning their money with them! The fair itappearances was decided to at withdraw from theYork promote and maintain features of ofGig sided box with a The hot water bottle Monday to Friday 10amcause ofUntil their choice, leaves and sprays of bright yellow inbring winter which are often highly For Our Spring Fair ers aged 5-19 years oldAGM website www.northdevonb10.org.uk. Metropolitan Opera before he died of Music Historical Society & Talksseen 'Beam Coope Boyes &The Simpson 8pm @of flowers Many people will have the May Queen? procession boys replenishes the coffers of the townthe – To find out about the ACWW and Bob Dymond competition, giving Withycombe the the Rolle Canal. Future walks this year wrapped in a towel and cover with the y 10am-1pm. Over 30 with the winnerthere and two perfumed. Sarcococca are less showy, but you cannot beat the scent that drifts Can allow Torrington’s to excitement inated will also Just to add the will House &we Quay' &put John Oatway The Plough an infection at the age of 48. Histo fame this site onbe previous walks buttradition this year thin brightly th th Saturday 20th and girls coloured costumes providing a used welcome boost to with the local Women's Institutes nationwide, visit walkover. June, 28 July and 18 will be 16 cloth that you to pick it up lect your cards from and r u n n e r s u p b e i n g dwindle? widely from some the tiny, hidden flowers. Music Bob Fox 8pm @ The Plough ne of Torrington five aday, free prize draw Clockmaker 7 be for 7.30pm @over has lasted tobeen the present despite there have developments would with melt any heart. Ribbons rippling, theneconomy – such help in following difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk August. For further if required: please ring anya of the Ourofnext game was at Tavistock selection gifts from awarded awhere grant. Please go to details Torrington W.I. What picture comes into your mind If it is colour you areband after, and youthe have an acid soil, camellias incarnival shades ofaspink Methodist Church gories of fabulous prizes by Biosphere Sunday 14th the limited marketing and promotional the winter that will make it well worth adonated skirts skipping and the blasting: Businesses use the an Any queries about Torrington W.I. email: hassallc@ymail.com ortake phone who will than flowers willing that to give yet again injury illness took their when you think ofand Torrington’s Fair? the world. www.communityforce.natwest.com/ Our Annual Meeting place Film 'Wreck it Ralph' 2pm @May The TS business supporters and individuals in thChurch and red would be high onwill the list. Don’t forget thatbe it ismore not only bring Methodist 10.30am avenues available to him. He was, Torrington repeat visit. The(PG) Heritage Lottery is ceremoniously woven. opportunity to advertise their wares. Sunday 21st stmaypole ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on 01237 425357, but you'll probably have advice or take to one of the local vets. For many it is the image of the maypole, toll, coupled witha‘Storm Brian’! A truly Torrington projects/ and type 1 will Plough We are will on Wednesday Rev Peter Whatton 6.30pm Mrs formation or north Devon. There beas of9 November. colour toplenty theScout garden; stems of dogwood and willow (Salix) can be found nonetheless, client of Edward Just the colours on theVivienne maypole Charities also benefit: collection tins are funded ‘Life's Journey’ project has St.(Cornus) Michael’s Church 10am Sung Mass 01805 623588. to leave a message. laughter and sunshine; it would be  British Hedgehog Preservation Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough Group into the project name box, foul afternoon spent on the exposed be electing a new a volunteer opportunities to enter the draw atsoB10 in fiery colours of red, and down yellow. These look planted Bernays during the pathway latter’s tenure a Sheriff intertwined, the May orange Fair breaks soon full tofabulous overflowing. Ignatius Sunday Club in upper roomwith bulbs ton Carnival produced a new from as the ChrisMass Hassalland difficult to imagine Torrington without it. 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough Society 01584 890801 register and Please get as President St.us. Michael’s Church Sung pitch atagent Tavistock, losing 29-7, at fullvote sches, to Film be events and online from May to 10am social barriers as itNarcissus, appealsTorrington Yet it is often argued that historic celpress in the USA. Publicity in for Methodist Church 10.30 such as snowdrops, Scilla and with hellebores or with heathers (Erica). Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the drummers, bands Yet today, our we historic tradition is friends Great Torrington Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room many of your and familyplants to  North Devon Hedgehog Rescue committee for the strength I Plane think would have won to September 2013. to do everyone. Choirs, dance ebrations are archaic and anachronistic. Rev Ken Morgan 5pm Circuit Service @ use of Caruso’s time relied on newspapers, Inclined where two illustrated Special and features in our gardens can be enhanced through the willattend give a small Devon under threat. It is easysotoas allow Tuesday 9th Film 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm & majorettes 7pm @ year, Our Hedgehogs Need You!!!!!! well, as if we are successful we 01271 816989 or 07964 522 359 following Town Hall Project that one. ourservices, next loss against groups and allParkham On the contrary, Torrington’s festivities . Please particularly wire Upcoming Events information boards have been installed ge a Film blaze of After publicity lighting during the winter, and our Magical Garden Illuminations event is a show not the pressures of modern life tomagazines, 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough The Plough will be able to continue our program of Anni Nicholls taking aisalook back Hedgehog Awareness Week on its By the time this report appears in Torridge Ramblers afternoon walk take to the stage: feast for revitalise the old traditions. In the current Withycombe, we played Wellington, photography and the telephone. to describe the saltmarsh habitat by month. to be Wild missed. Sculpture is also a fabulous way of adding interest and our Winter  Get to Know Your Local slowly strangle(12A) our 8pm cultural Film 'Hitchcock' @ The refurbishment to Scout HQ,why not the onlyeyes all to we Local have and ears. way but wait untilatthen ofHedgehog apathy, laziness and 01237climate The Crier, you will have noticed 451820 Torridge Rescue Volunteer Coordinator: who have thethis advantage ofofPierre being and Caruso’s biographers, Key, the Torridge and the workings on’s annual carnival, Sculpture Exhibition is always worth a visit, even if you think that you are not heritage. In fast age Flowers with Plantwalk Expert Plough Monday Film 'Les Miserables' (12A) 3pm Theour spirits dignitaries are and happily indifference, the May Fair benefitting group, but experienced in all the then help? As 15th spring is last here year scaffolding has been put@lifts (working with ND Hedgehog 0130 coached by ex-England International Bruno purpose ofgadgetry, the and Rolle Stanley Canal. It Jackson is the now Scout h dateshigh-tech back toZirato Victorian mass interested inpelted sculpture; let be inspired. Visit rhs.org.uk/rosemoor Singing for Fun 7.30-8.30pm @yourself High Clare Gurton in Hartland Plough in the stocks and and transforms Torrington intofora details vibrant those who hire the hall. and hopefully the weather getting a sneak preview of speakers up to facilitate the repair Rescue) Angela Hodge g@torridgecvs.org.uk attribute his fame not only to his voice possible to gain a far better and former Plymouth Albion Head Coach media and10th instant s, will be on Guy Fawkes or phone 0845 265 8072. Wednesday Bickington Community Centre Film 'I Give it a Year' (15) 7pm @ The subjected to duckings. The community. Despite the continual Clare has organised a series of Fran Ashton improves our spiky friends booked for 2012. Cups and prizes will t h of the roof and make the 07884 486 509 May and but also toofa 29-3 keen understanding ofisSaid theMass lay-out and Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5'sSheila Dearing Garden Technical Services Officer gratification, there little time Graham final result h t , 2013. S aMichael's t umusicianship, r d aDawe. y Church 5The St 8.30am Plough has awho lavish development of modern weekly guided plantwalks in will up Hartland andMayor about again. bebe awarded for those didlunch, best to in building Please water-tight look out forfortechnology events in and business sense and an embrace workings of the inclined plane boat liftof left for what really matters: to Wellington was a fantastic result for ember,in which gives the St James Chapel 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington Community which many are invited. The increasing time spent at computer tothe be acase. part of -It’s the North been an Devon extremely our optional monthly tough competitions, and areaIt during the your winter. will beHedgehog community life. Today, than was previously TheB10 commercial sound recordings, then in Centre s Biosphere Reserve vities an extra spark Torrie and shows that themore team7pm are Torrington W.I @ of Methodist Hall th th town crier be bellows as tea heMonday screens, last year’s record-breaking 22nd Biosphere’s tenth anniversary celebrawinter for them. The there will, of course, time for Awareness 5 to 11forMay. enclosed inWeek waterproof than ever, it ofMany ison essential toOde upper basin the canal the top its infancy. well-known opera toofDerek were Stamp ar.Anniversary th Film 'I Wish' (PG) 8pm @ TheatPlough worthy winners. function room isthere available hire, withlive starting to click the pitch. proudly turnout shows isfor stillunder aworking place Dance 5's for tions. changeable and wet marches weather the streetsMini Mover and a natter. sheeting to Session protect the area keep our historic celebration alive. Our the incline has been cleared of scrub nd singers of Caruso’s time rejected the Derek Stamp is 60, ph Gent, one of the key Tuesday 16th The juniors have played several quite a few bookings already placed. Torrie 2B10) XVwill have played only of his predecessors and The Torrington entertainment. Given the choice of 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington sary (branded has made it difficult for many of These friendly outings, where you Being rather nifty at getting through and to minimise any risk to the internal week of annual festivity fosters sufficiently to enable the outline of its Pets As Therapy phonograph (gramophone) and intheir Thursday 11th A milestone his life, the Dowland country fair 'Hearing for You' Social group forthe the beatingCommunity Silver Band pulsates like playing a videoAvery game07780 or participating in games against Bideford, Contact Adrian 665 378. two of their scheduled games, Centre ls, organisations and them to find food or hibernate properly can find and learn about plants the business side3rd of things, we@will also Pets friendship, aChurch sense of belonging and a this fabric. At the same time, a series of banks to be clearlynot seen, and thecome way voices have been lost as a result, but As Therapy isand a8pm hard of hearing. Every Tues 2pm St Michael's Said Mass And we’ve far together wom in June, is organising heart of the community. the buzz of the fair, I know which I would Comedy Alistair McGowan @ The Ilfracombe and Tavistock As always, new returning players due to other sides being around northern over the past months so many are nowBob national growing on local verges, are link with our past. We cannot let this die. manage a bit ofcall time to welcome photoelectric panels will be installed, to the railway subsequently cut through other singers including Adelina Patti, charity to founded Thewife. Bickford Centre 373236 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by The grand of01271 the May Fair weekPlough choose… As A devoted man and ar in which £1,600atfinale various age levels, are welcome join us at senior training to fulfil their fixtures. utefinale to able an exciting weak and need help. If you know that As you walk the cobbled streets of our usually two hours long and will Brewer, who will give us the low-down reduce running-costs, and perhaps the northern end, destroying the top of Youth Francesco Tamagno and Nellie Melba Club High Bickington Community Walsingham cell in vicarage in sessions 1983. It on is unique in Trioof is the carnival, avery spectacle of light andGallery Today, the new enemy a large-scale Gig The Pete Canter orks light the night with much improved Wednesdays from 6.30trip to up South Molton endedantiquity. of will celebratory ancient town, you breathe The you had a resident hedgehog in your be now held Centre onsound. Wednesday onathe Cavaliers. provide an income for the project by Memory Cafethe 10.30-12.30pm @ The the incline. This basin for 11+ @ 5-7pm exploited new canal technology once thattown it @ provides therapeutic floats journey through the8.18pm event is ‘Health and Safety’. As The Plough He’s always there to hold myFanciful hand, skills they are 8pm. insupports aNorth tight Withycombe ort of Plough the May Fair loss. links present-day Torrington area last year please don’t forget to put evening from 6pm. This is showing a7pm We start at in what the lined Methodist selling surplus power to the National Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm an increasing population of they became aware of the success of visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing town whilst the streets are with huge crowds gather, it could be argued And kiss when I’m sad,capable of. Training is on Sundays & Drum Samba nd Band, with thePurple past, transporting us to aame bygone I can be contacted 07799 401 accident. 704. here Reserve. 2 XV visited Donnacroft, acheering bowl of Hall, water and some out for unique opportunity to and see Church prospective members Grid. @years, Bickington Community Centre Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty &and The Early Orchid and Twayblade (a soAdults children. In thefood packed townTuesday there is a danger of an Caruso’s recording sessions. andthat care homes, special needs 23rd My soul mate for many rington Allstar Majorettes era – when life was simpler. until Beast autumn from 10am. The clubhouse is C’mon Torrie! scratch side played out of their them, placing it inside a feeding station the North Devon Biosphere are very welcome to visit for free. Any Cribbage pairs competition @ Torrington 2pm @ The Plough Although this work is being carried green flowered orchid) which, square, you have no choice but to mingle Nowadays, with all the ridiculous rules Caruso moreBest thatfriend 260 extant schools a variety other venues Youth Cluband for 11+ 5-7pmof@High I’ve ever had. open for teas and coffees, and the in be the made parade Torrington has hosted annual May eking part will Mark Waterson skins to hold back a 7pm verythe strong Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) @ The 8pm from a Arms different angle, topaying their subs thisBickington new members out by the Townlands Trust, payment and make new friends. and regulations it is a struggle to Community Centre recordings in America for the Victor illage, alongand withearly many Fair since 1554. However, many activities Filmmonth, 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pmto @ The Plough note start long film obligatory bacon rolls. Teamwork, Respect, Discipline, Withycombe team forforthe first half, learn more about identifying get 14 months for theee!’ priceThe of will be taken from funds set aside for ‘Uz be plaised zee organise anything. In this age of Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm Talking Machine Company, (later RCA met when I wasPlough “just 18”, ts, this in year’s celebrations England We have their origins New Buildings Renovations? andincluding withat the the note early start for or long film 12.The How about that! local wild and towelcome enjoy newly refurbished clubhouse Enjoyment, Sportsmanship Mayor’s banner in thickAdultscountless litigation, our town is in but end of the second half Withy the project, which would havehall included @ High Bickington Community Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he flowers R.PITTS Then call your Local Centre CRIER COPY DEADLINE for “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Friendly Builder Wednesday 17th Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Roland Pitts Wednesday 24th today please New Buildings or  Damp Surveys & Remedial Works eRenovations? e James Chapel inFrSt

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Devonshire Association, Bideford Branch Talks

Give a man a scanner Stephen Hobbs ‘Hartland Digital Archive’ Friday 8th December, 2pm at the Burton Art Gallery s originator of Hartland Digital Archive and Hon. Archivist at Hartland Abbey, he will describe his project in Hartland, the largest parish in Devon, and the farthest from a railway, with an extensively documented history. This has now been opened up to researchers via an extensive digital project, but did it go as planned? He will give an overview of the project and its spinoffs. Business, Family Life and Living Conditions in the Torrington Area during the 19th Century. Dr Hugh Reed Friday 19th January 2018, 2pm at the Burton Gallery He will present a picture of life and dramatic changes that occurred over the Victorian era. For more details on all events, please contact the Branch Secretary, Michael Wright, bideforddabranch@btinternet. com or 01409 281 565.

Moira’s latest book ‘Jerusalem Morning’ is on sale at Torrington Jewellers in aid of charity.

What Industries Were There In Torrington In The Past?

orrington as a borough dates from the late 12th century, and in its early days the town flourished on its markets and fairs. Agriculture was Torrington's primary industry when the main essential was the cultivation of land and the production of food. The 14th century saw the beginning of the great woollen industry in England, and by the 15th century ‘Devonshire kerseys’ had become famous. Local place names reflect the manufacture of woollen cloth: Tucking Mill meadow, Staple Vale, Rack Park (fields where cloth was stretched out on racks to dry). Glove making developed during the thriving wool industry in the17th century and replaced it as Torrington's major employer in the 19th century. By the 1830s some 3,000 women were employed in the making of kid, chamois, beaver and other sorts of gloves for the London and foreign markets. 'White's Gazetteer' of 1850 lists the names of 13 glove makers in the town. As the smaller establishments disappeared, machines began to be introduced into the larger ones; at first worked by hand on the premises and then by hot air, steam and gas engines. In the 1880s one factory alone had more than 600 employees, both in the factory and as outworkers. By the 1940s there were three glove factories in the town, the last of which closed in 2010. The large imposing Grade II listed building in Whites Lane, the former Vaughan Tapscott glove factory built in 1884 in the style of a grand chapel, was closed in 2002. Since then it has stood forlorn and increasingly derelict.

Many of the old local crafts and trades that were carried on in Torrington have long since disappeared. In the second half of the 20th century the main factories in Torrington employing a large proportion of the town's population were: the Dairy Crest creamery, the North Devon Meat factory and Dartington Glass. The presence of three fairly large, labour-intensive employers was a strength from the 1960s to the 1980s, but by the early 1990s had become a weakness; too many eggs in too few baskets, and all three were badly affected by the recession. There had been a dairy at Taddiport since 1874, but in 1993 the milk factory moved its production elsewhere which meant the loss of 134 jobs. Other businesses occupied parts of the building for a while, but it has stood empty and vandalised for many years, and plans to demolish it and build on the site have come to nothing. In its heyday, North Devon Meat, which opened in 1967 was the largest meat factory in Europe and employed 400-500 people. In the early 1990s 100 workers were made redundant and then part of the building burnt down in 2001, when 250 people lost their jobs. The company was taken over by St Merryn Foods based at Bodmin in Cornwall. In 1992, during the recession, Dartington Glass had to put its staff on short-time but, after numerous management buy-outs and reductions of the workforce over the years, Dartington Crystal, as it is now known, continues to be a major employer in Torrington. Moira Brewer

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All I Want For Christmas is… No Arguments

elate’s guide to avoiding bustups over the festive season. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas is coming. The high streets are getting busy with festive shoppers and across Devon people are dusting off the decorations. But for some, Christmas is an extremely stressful and emotional period, and a time that families have come to dread. This Christmas, Relate in North Devon is asking people across the county to put a ‘Harmonious Christmas’ at the top of their Christmas wish list. And to help, Relate’s counsellors have put together the following tips to help families keep the peace this festive season: For a lot of people this Christmas, money will be tight, so try not to succumb to the pressure and spend more than you can afford. Getting into a mountain of debt is not a good way to start the New Year. Who goes where and when can be a huge issue for parents who have split up and for step families, especially if you are at loggerheads. As hard as it is, try to keep as calm as possible and keep your children’s best interests at heart. Turn the telly off. It’s easy to ‘veg out’ in front of the TV over Christmas, it’s cold outside and the sofa is very inviting after all the rush and hard work. Get some board games to play, go for a walk, have some family/together time. Remember family members who might be alone, or who find the festive period difficult. Just popping in or giving them a call can really help. Don’t feel you have to do everything

New Information Boards put Torrington Landmarks on the Map – Literally!

yourself. Share out tasks amongst your family and friends. We all like to toast Christmas with a nice glass or two, but if there is any tension in your family then steer clear of alcohol; it will only aggravate the situation. Remember to have fun! Christmas can be a very hectic time, especially if you have kids, so make sure you plan in some time for yourself and give yourself some treats. If things get a bit heated, head out for a long walk; fresh air and exercise are a great antidote for tension. Veronica Beckett of Relate North Devon says, “The period after Christmas is the busiest time for Relate so we know and understand the pressures people are facing. If the festive season is getting too much for you, then make sure you talk to someone, your partner, a friend, your family. Or come and see one of our counsellors, by calling 0300 7729681 or visiting www.relate-ed.org. uk.

ew pictorial maps have been put up in six locations in and around Torrington. The maps were designed by local graphic designer Phil Butcher and feature text inlays providing descriptions of historical sites, landscape features, and information on attractions, facilities and services in the town. £1,000 came from the Mary Portas town initiatives but were supplemented by £600 from the Town Council as part of their Great Torrington Futures Group. The long term focus of the group is the economic regeneration of the town and surrounding parishes; next steps concentrate on better highway signage. The signs are located in locations for maximum exposure including Sydney House Car Park, RHS Rosemoor, Town Pannier Market, Dartington Crystal, Puffing Billy complex and at the old Bowling Green. Smaller reproductions of the boards have been placed in Council offices, tourist information and other locations. Torrington Councillor Cathrine Simmons said: “The information boards are just a small part of a much longer list of projects we hope to implement to rejuvenate the town and surrounding areas. But they have already been well received with lots of positive feedback. I want to congratulate the Great Torrington Futures Group for delivering these enhancements and will be working with them to progress other projects in the town.”

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STITCH Campaign Update

t seems a long time now since the beds at Torrington Hospital were closed, in August 2013, without any prior consultation. Back then, in order to make our case to the Secretary of State for Health, we first had to get a resolution of support for the referral from Torrington Council, then Torridge District Council, and finally Devon County Council’s Health and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee, who undertook their own investigation into our town’s case. After two years of persistent pressure and lobbying, the case was sent to Westminster. When a reply was received from an IRP (Independent Review Panel) who examined the case, it was clear the referral hadn’t been made on the grounds of it being a ‘flawed consultation process’, as had been voted on by Torrington and Torridge councils. It was also clear that NONE of our community’s evidence supporting the case had been sent. This included our allegations, all of which were evidenced, regarding the corrupt process surrounding the consultation and evaluation. On 5th December 2016, the community’s evidence and report was finally sent. It then sat on the Secretary of State’s desk for nine months until we received the reply, on 14th September 2017, which stated that the community’s evidence, seen by the Secretary of State for the first time, was not, “new, different, or additional evidence”, even though they had not seen this evidence and report before. As a result of this response from the Secretary of State, we have appealed to our MP Geoffrey Cox, a trained barrister,

www.ngs.org.uk

117 stating that after four years of pursuing this case, our community has not had justice. He wrote back on 25th October 2017. “I agree that it does seem hard to see how some of the evidence supplied did not constitute ‘new evidence’.” He is meeting with the Hospital Minister and will convey our “disappointment and dismay” over the fact that we have not been listened to, or our case dealt with professionally or fairly.

have lost 71% of our community beds in just five years. SOHS campaigners in Torrington are in the process of producing a film outlining these cuts and showing how the ‘Care Closer to Home’ system, which has replaced the community hospitals, is failing in every respect. Our MP Geoffrey Cox said on the issue, “I share your concern regarding the ‘Care Closer to Home’ model and have pointed out the illogicality of closing a purpose-built hospital because of shifting ideology “It was also clear that NONE in the NHS, while the new approach of our community’s evidence remains still not fully tested”. supporting the case had been sent. The film will appear on YouTube and This included our allegations, all of we hope it will also be shown at the Plough, and we would ask for your which were evidenced...” support to bring along friends and The STITCH campaign has now neighbours to see it, and to email the merged into the much wider SOHS YouTube link to anybody on your contact campaign which opposes, “any cuts to list. The film will make the point that what any health services anywhere in Devon”. is happening in Devon is being repeated Northern Devon Healthcare Trust and across England; in that sense the film will the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) have national relevance. More details on have failed to listen to the concern of the film to follow. communities across Devon. They are STITCH pressing on with plans to cut £557 million from Devon’s health budget. If these cuts First Thursday Writing Group were to be implemented, then we would ur November meeting was well not have an NHS as we know it now. The attended, and we welcomed two failure of the CCG to listen to what the new members, and their contributions people of Devon want from their NHS, to the topic of ‘The Inkwell’. means confrontation is inevitable Our next meeting is at Torrington Already in the last five years, 19 Conservative Club at 7.30pm on community hospitals across Devon have th Thursday 7 December. The topic lost all their beds. There are now only will be ‘The Little Mermaid’. For more eight community hospitals with beds left information, please see our website at in Devon, and only one in the North, at www.torringtonwriters.co.uk. South Molton which, instead of 16 beds Nikki Whiting is being run at 10! In all, we in Devon

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nother very successful year has passed; we celebrated with a Silver Gilt award at the South West in Bloom presentation day in Torquay, and two of our three ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ community entries received ‘Outstanding’ awards, which is the highest accolade achievable; the Secret Memorial Garden and the S&G flowerbed (looked after by Torrington Horticultural Society). The third was the Tarka Railway Group, whose work restoring the old coal dock down at the Puffing Billy received an ‘Establishing’ award (which is the first step in this competition). Our Best Garden competition was also a great success, with a number of new entrants, and our new award, Young Gardener of the Year (kindly sponsored by Dartington Crystal) got off to a good start; we need a few more youngsters next year, please! Thanks to Sarah Chesters of RHS Garden Rosemoor for being our judge, her continuing support is much appreciated. The potato competition was another success, despite quite a difficult growing season for the youngsters of Year 4 of the Bluecoat C of E Primary School. The children still managed to achieve some excellent results, considering we give them just one potato to grow! We also eagerly await the results of the Pride in Parks award, which the

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23 formerly Head Gardner at As always, your marshalled by our vo ur lunch venue inHestercombe October wasGardens. the Royal Exchange. To say that the In April we have a coach outing to routes to encourage food and service was good is an understatement. The management the Cornish Flower Show at Bocconoc safety at all times. T and staff worked extremely hard to make sure everything was perfect. Estate. We are delighted at how everyone, from five Special mention to the chef for the roast beef, which was delicious. are already quickly the seats have been taken and We Delicious refreshment looking forward to January when they will be our hosts again. Thanks also the of your w are now praying for decent weather. at theto end management for the very On welcome rafflefront prizes. the home we will be hosting a will once again be on Our dates for Decemberquiz with our ‘adversaries’ from other to ferry you back to yo th * Our Christmas Party will be on Tuesday , strictly Startyear, time we are h gardening clubs in 5the area. members only.This Our remember speaker inyour May, Tuesday 7th at parcel, entertainment 2pm in the Social Club. Please Father Christmas (cost no along th 7.30pm will be Howard Wills, locally ‘themed surprises’ b more than £2). theyetkeeper of a National Collection marshalls! * The film this month has to be confirmed. Contact Marciaofand Val for details Sempervivums Jovibarbums. He priceNightwalk of date and title. Usual tea, coffee and cakeand afterwards and normal of £3.50. has pro will be sharing popular and we hope thwith us the plants he * The beetle drive will be on Sunday 10 , start time 2pm. Remember your bring found on a visit to Madeira. better than ever. So and share tea. For more about the Society thring Sally rally your friends * The lunch will be at The Puffing Billy Tuesday 12 , 12.45 start and and get Ramsden, on on 01805 623152, emailfor 1pm colleagues, usual price of £7.50 (less sallyramsdenindevon@hotmail.co.uk discount). Discount will be according to theforms number of along wi in fast, stamps on your attendance andat ValTorridge for booking Feel with payment. or card. turn Contact up to aMarcia meeting free to photocop Our dates for January 2018 Vale Social Club.. pass them around *The beetle drive will be on Sunday 7th, start time 2pm, at Torridge Vale Social family, or you can reg Sally Ramsden Club. line at www.nightwa noteofthat the £10 ‘Ea *The film will be on Monday 8th, start2013 time 2pm, and will be new version Agatha Nightwalk remains the asame ti Christie’s Murder on the Orient Cost £3.50 to include tea and coffee and Get Express. ready for another thereafter the fee w slice of cake afterwards. Nightwalk to remember please get your entry i th th *Lunch will be at the Royal Exchange on Tuesday 9 , 12.45 for 1pm start, cost May on Saturday 18 £7.50. Contact Marcia or2013…and Val for menuachoices, booking and payment. new leg near Spring Has Sprung Holsworthy! New for 2018, Marcia wishes to remind everyone that her home phone number is now its seventh year, is Little Torrington is NOT to be used, for club Nightwalk business. The newinclub phone number now Marcia’s The snowdrops mobile 07881 875 846. and we are hoping you will sign up for what everyone tells us is young a memorable Marcia and Val (and their elves) wish everybody, and not so been young,lovely, a verythe primr night rest assured we’ve ordered fine are out and the daf Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Peaceful New Year. weather and a lovely sunset! on the bank at the t This will be an unforgettable evening, Mile Hill approaching with an atmosphere full of anticipation, village are about t Common Conservators entered this year. ‘behind the Many scenes’ tomagnificent support and memories and work camaraderie. display of Unfortunately, this will not Nightwalkers be announced wore sponsor our efforts. fancy dress last Spring Fever has h until the spring seminar next year! very Happyfeature; Christmasas to you year which was aAwonderful well;all new firepro whether you decide fancy dresstoor2018,storage All our members have worked andon I look forward and further cupboards ha not, you are warmly welcome! extraordinarily hard to make the town successes for Great Torrington. in order to store the look attractive for all of us who live, work Cherry Hammon 01805 625788, or visit, and I thank them very much Chair Torrington in Bloom indeed. I also thank those of you who Usher, Get Together Friends

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he BIG Sheep will be offering visitors a hot and toasty welcome e are a friendly and informal was at Hatherleigh Com this Christmas, following theMayor’s Diary group set up to preserve to see many of their re Another installation of a new Bio-mass systemhectic month has passed. longstanding ties between Community Awards. T Helen and I have represented the which will totally transform the visitor these twin towns in Devon and Finistère. the awards we have Town at many civic experience in the indoor play area. We work alongside other organizations which recognise peop events, including This year the BIG Sheep is set to wow to support community events, take part made a difference to the church services for the in charity quizzes and help to co-ordinate visitors with their stunning Woolly’s WinterChairs of North Devon It was lovely to at las cross-channel visits by diverse clubs and Wonderland, which opens on Saturday District Council and be involved with, the 2nd December, and remains open every Torridge Father Lawrence MacL organisations from the area. District he and his family will be weekend in December until Saturday 16thCouncil. The Torrington-Roscoff Exchange our town, and the Chu December when it opens every until a trip to Bideford to Group membership is growing, and We day enjoyed Vicarage was a good op Christmas Eve. watch their Regatta and on 10th we continually welcome interest from all to meet them. September spectacular Visitors to Woolly’s Wonderland willwatched first take athe walk through Santa’s enchanted prospective new members. Our current The Co-op and Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, wonderland in search of snowmen, reindeer and sheep before they catch a glimpse members range from 14 years old arranged with visiting bands coming from all over of Santa, who will be waiting in readiness along with his elves to distribute the a Harvest F upwards; some speak French and some Pannier Market on the UK. magic of Christmas. do not. We have recently gained one the 11th September. Barnstaple Fair is always a wellAs well as Woolly’s Winter Wonderland the popular ‘Breakfasts with Santa’ family membership and one individual This waswillthe first with all the “Chain th take place on Sunday 17supported December,day, but do book in advance as these popular membership; one of our new members one organised and I Gang” out in force to celebrate the festive breakfasts have limited spaces. is kindly giving French classes for think it will become a tradition of the Fair. The weather was Breakfast with Santa iskind priced £10 peraround person, which includesregular a hot event on the beginners. as from we walked town, whilst breakfast and an exclusive with Santa and 9.30am before We are now in the process of planning Torrington calendar. themeeting declaration of the between opening 9am of the a full day out at the BIG Sheep from 10amImmediately until 5pm. Book Finally, we tried to a a visit by our Breton friends sometime Fair was read. aftertickets the for your family through the BIG Sheep to avoid coffee mornin next year, and looking ahead to our formalwebsite: part ofwww.thebigsheep.co.uk the proceedings had earlyMacmillan and in fact ended up disappointment. finished, we dashed down to Newquay. involvement in local events and village th th This is a wonderful cha It was 6time forThursday Helen to7put on a ‘posh On Tuesday 5th, Wednesday and December it’s our Christmas fetes. Within the next few months, we will surprising that it’s so fortoddlers a reception the fun. Toddler Takeover Day, sofrock’ let your enjoy celebrating some pre-festive be having a group safari supper; as you After all those ‘SouthourWest in Take Bloom’ This year we will be limiting Toddler Overcompetition. tickets so that the children cancoffees may gather, we all like to socialize and Soap Kitchen shop to s We still had to wait until the following have extra special time with Santa. Book online for discounted tickets: toddlers £5 have fun together. Richard Phillips who each (£6 on the door). day to hear the results, and were proud On behalf of the group, I (Nick years of business on 3 and delighted when it was announced Toddlers under the height of 3ft will be given a Little Shepherds Card which Roberts) would like to wish all the Crier Congratulations to you b that the Torrington in Bloom team had entitles them to free entry on future visits when under 3ft. Adults £5 each, a special readers a very Merry Christmas and a I look forward to hea won a Silver Gilt (last year it was discounted rate for our Toddler Takeover Days when booked in advance. Healthy New Year. you have an event or a silver). Thank you to the committee, The undercover Christmas Food & Craft Marketwho will be opensofrom want 9am to Please get in touch if joining our group to 1pm tell me about traders and individuals work rd on Saturdays 2nd, 9th, 16thhard and 23 December. range turkeys, 01805meats, 625662, or is of interest to you. to enhance ourFree surroundings in organic Pauline at the sprouts on stalks, cheeses, cakes, puddings,We biscuits, fudge, chocolate, bread, fishCouncil o For more information on any of the Great Torrington. will soon have 626135. and Christmas trees are just of the of delights which be on offer. A host of above, please contact: the some opportunity meeting the will judges locally sourced crafted gifts will be perfect for do lasteven minute Christmas gifts. Councillor R to find outthe how we can better Nick Roberts (Chair), 01805 ouryear nextyou challenge is disappointed GOLD!! For all your festive fun –this won’t be with a visit to the BIG 625765, 07779 118 690, email: Our last out-of-town engagement Sheep. nickandanne1620@btinternet.com

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

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ow that the long in a national writing competition: Strong ebony diamonds cord injury supporting SIA’s dark nights have ‘Copywrite’, run by the National Schoolsand Beaten to a pulp. G r e a t information and support services. arrived, I find Partnership. Harley Carter and Reuben You can‘Slave hold a supper in your own myself spending more Musgrave entered their poems The men come and home, at work hold acontainers, larger supper Torrington Ship’ and ‘Don’t Make Promises’ into theor my computer. ‘Floral display’ can include 1. time Beston floral display by aSo business Take people up hanging baskets, For your one stop pet shop, A large at your local community centre. competition when they were in Year 8 window boxes, ornaments. Plants need not be bedding but I was very pleased when I stock of pet food, Toys, We hear screams Cages, SIA will provide a fundraising pack this term have isheard that they are can include fruit, vegetables, herbs, perennials, 2. came Best across floral display bySchool ashowing public house And they come down in shrubs. a website pictures Bedding, wild birdand products, hristmas nearly here, which means lots of excitement our household. containing hints and tips, recipes, runners up. Both boys are delighted, and Medical items etc.... flowers areup not allowed! All covered in cutssparkly baubles, but taken from the air above Great Torrington I can’t waitArtificial to see the tree go and all the bright invitations and donation envelopes. By have won a £50 Amazon voucher each. Red of blood drips. 3. inBest floral display by anlooks individual 1937. The town itself much(best the garden)* especially all the nice presents, some which I just know are for me! The English department is very proud offriends inviting seven and asking them Find us at 20 south street, Can You Help the * category 3 must be able to be viewed from the road or treats same. The paths on Castle Hill are the Sadly we Reuben still have and several dogsitiniskennels but they will be getting special Harley and thinks Great Torrington 01805 622859 to donate an additional £5 say youa will They don’t word pavement, ie, front garden. 4. We Best floral display by a group, ie, scouts, school, Boxingrun, Club Find a same they are today, however there startasthis month with Katie’s minithis yearthat, thanks to again, Bideford Bike Club, have will organised a SantaPaws and wonderful once work done in who raise at least £35, but Likewe they also give neighbourhood** saga. are no trees and bushes, which makes have been asking can people to donate treats and toys. They have a donation bin at New Home? English lessons win national you additional fundraising ideas to Buttoned up theiroflips. group’ must consist of a minimum two people (ofand anyDog the paths a prominent feature. Morrisons, and will **‘A be raise bringing allmore. the donations to our ‘Christmas Market competitions. Torrington Police Am even From The Depths age). 5. Best back garden (photograph only)*** When we look at Castle Hill today it Show’ at Torrington Pannier Market on Sunday 3rdare December (apologies as last homelessn They’ve been in The Crier before, but Club faces Where we going The money raised will help the Nothing could be seen; my pupils here are Ithe twoI winning poems:wrong has become overgrown withballs. treesLight and month think got the Spinal month – well On I am only a dog!). The show promises this never trip? second time in a year an Injuries Association out like glassy *** category 5 photographic must be ending aoffer photograph of your 6. stretched Best allotment orbig vegetable garden**** bushes. So much so that if an aerial to be great, with a special Santa Paws fancy dress class and, of course, an for a home individuals who name become up ahead seemed to be further, further, ownsupport garden,to please ensure your and address is permanent on No-one knows photo was taken today, it would be opportunity to see lots paralysed of motor bikes. All the details can bethe foundsessions. on our website further. A wind flushed down the corridor. and their families, from back of photo (2 photosDoes are allowed) 7. Best floral display outside a public building anyoneand care? if you wouldlike see the paths. Since the club was fo at www.k9focus.co.uk. Don’t make promises I doubtful was a tiny boat on We a moment a spinal injury occurs, for (firewhipped station, about council offices, etc.) Human faeces everywhere the Globe Hotel when Alone in my room, nothing but me. believe that sixty years ten rough, choppy sea. ago A only screaming This year has simply whizzed by, and I can hardly believe we will be the rest of their lives. ****category 6 can be a public allotment or a privateheading garden into For your one stop pet shop, A large I heard the doorI hope from downstairs. pounded at my eardrums, wanting to January, they have 2018, which will be a fantastic year for everyone. The support we receive at been For contain more information or request a and can vegetables and fruit. cannot a 8. Best floral display by a young person (under 16) stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, Do the men live Itlike this?inbeTorrington I heard my name being called, breakthrough. Unwanted tiptoed “In the future it willthoughts beBedding, necessary Town Hall a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright the rescue from everyone is fantastic, and without which I would see so many more wild bird products, commercial enterprise but can be a group or individual “Someone’s on the phone for ayou!” cautiously into further my headareas and bounced measure, but have to le on 0845 0714350 or email to clear of the of my furry friends without home. This year we have helped over 70 dogs that Medical items etc.... effort. It must be your own allotment/garden, or group 9. around Best floral display small garden Quick! Shh! my brain. 30th April. fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk or would otherwise have not seen in 2018. Commons and this will be done allotment /garden of which you are an active participant. (less than 20ft x 20ft approx.), balcony or courtyard. Here they come I picked up the phone, thevisit voice said… Something’s coming. Club coach Heathcliffe Find us at 20 south street, www.siafishandchips.co.uk. In the New Year we doing?” will be looking for more volunteers in Torrington to come and No more thinking. “Hello Son, how are you It’s comingsympathetically.” to get me......andGreat there’s no Torringtonth01805 622859 that the club has never help some of the kennel dogs out entry for walks andand socialisation, and so if you 2013 The closing Please cut off your details hand in to the was atake voice I haven’t heard in years. way out. date for ALL categories is: 30 ItJune set down roots, having t percent of the Commons was covered 1610 Torrington Triathlon at like toI be involved please do emailMake Aunty Lynne atkeep lynne@k9focus.co.uk Theysure take a man addresses supplied. you a note of which – It would was a voice used to know. An echo replaced the air, the echo that different venues since And a woman in trees and bushes, today that figure is Completed forms may be left at the following addresses: categories you have entered! an ideal way to lose some of those extra pounds! We will also be starting training only could be the beating of my panicked Torrington Pool last year. Wonder whatand, will happen. seventy percent (as one conservator Whiskers Pet Shop, plus Vicarage Nursery or Ferry’s Home and socialisation classes, garden of course, will continue I said, “I’m fine, how’s you?” openingrdour sensory heart. June 2013 Sunday 23 He said: “Despite If“I’m you have any please Hardware voice said slowly, fine, thanks commented The End. if this continues the town will The to sell Natural Instinct Raw Food andqueries, accessories (allcontact: profits go to the rescue) - so Torrington Terror: scenic, rural bike numbers of vacant pro Can see black bodies for asking.” The End. Cherry Hammon, Secretary, Torrington in Bloom have to be renamed Great Torrington in exciting times ahead. th and run courses. Novice friendly, but town, the biggest challen As far as my eyes can see. TheWood). End. 2013.a great Christmas Judging will take place on Tuesday 6 AugustHave Association, on 01805 625788. the and a fantastic New Year. Stay safe, have fun anda most will challenge you! is finding new home. T Then voice saidyour veryfurry veryfriend slowly… ...whispered into my ears. felt around, Last year we cleared an Iarea of of allthe remember with someMan extra and hugs. members, boxers and th at treats my foot, whack! Distances “I will be coming in next week…” touching the ice cold stone walls, fingers Castle Hill behind Barley Grove and this Signing Miss Jessica Cut sensation Swim 400m, Bike 32km, Run 4.5km.off for 2017, including Function Fitn outstretched in front of me. Someone or 2013 For your one pet shop, A large I/we wish towe enter the Torrington in Bloom Competition: Name/Group: …………………………….……………. summer have seen the benefits of stop My foot leaking. Not sure about doing a triathlon on Cavaliers, have worked Six weeks past, since I heard the voice. something entwined their fingers in mine. stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, the work. was Whentaking we have areas infected with Dutch elmyour disease. I would take this opportunity, drips from my eye. own? Why notWater enter aslike a to relay make the club a succe I said to myself… Something overcleared my body; I birdThen Bedding, wild products, Category: …………………...Address: in the sure past, we Ihave seen an increase………………………………………………………………………………………… In the future it will be necessary toperfect on behalf of the Torrington Commons “Never make promises you can’t The keep.” team? introduction to the attracts up to 30 membe wasn’t who was anymore. Medical items etc.... Want mother. Want father. in the butterfly and lizardKatie population and clear further areas of the Commons Conservators, to wish you all training a Merry three times Harley Carter, Huxtable, sport of Triathlon. time, Man and dangerous ………………………………………………………Post Code:…………..Contact telephone number: ……………………. the flora in the area have also increased. Year 9 Find us at 20 street, this will be done sympathetically. It Christmas and a Happyhave New more Year. than half a Year 8 southand For more information or to whip book your 622859 In the past few weeks we Great haveTorrington had to 01805 will stop the Commons place becoming Stevewith Jones, Chairman – visitmore www.1610.org.uk. medical cards ready remove a number of dead Elm trees on overgrown and we will reap the benefits chairman.conservators@gmail.com Jubilee path, this was due to them being in years to come.

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19 30

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News Winter Illuminations, the Nutcracker & More at RHS Rosemoor

his year, following the feedback from our first illuminations in 2016, visitors can once again enjoy the garden lit up on a greatly extended trail. Innovative hi-tech, dynamic colour-changing illuminations provide a magical festive trail around the trees, shrubs and winter sculptures. This year, the trail is roughly 4-5 times the length, with additional dates; running until 6th January 2017. It takes in the Formal Gardens and into the Stream Field, where visitors can buy warming hot drinks and snacks at the Shepherd’s Rest – a brand new al-fresco catering facility. The trail then follows back down the Long Borders and incorporating displays in the Hot Garden and all around the Winter Garden too. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday the gardens will be open until 8.30pm to maximise the effects of the lighting into the evening hours, and on those days garden entry will be discounted after 3pm.The Garden Kitchen Restaurant will be serving ‘Simple Family Suppers’ 5.30-7.30pm, and booking is highly recommended to avoid disappointment On some of the evenings there will be Christmas Food, Craft and Antique Fairs; and on two weekends in December, Entertainingly Different will be performing ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ in their

s I write, plans are afoot for our festive gathering, a wonderfully enjoyable occasion with fabulous food and drink contributions and a ’Secret Santa lucky dip stocking’, we had such fun with it last year. Members are welcome to bring guests, but as the festive gathering is held at a private address, booking will be essential. Other news is that just recently I’ve negotiated a good discount for group orders with an excellent company specializing in natural health care for dogs, including homeopathy, herbal remedies, flea control, supplements and more. Another reason to join us! I also have a supply of an excellent book on raw feeding to give away; a small donation to the Buying Group overheads would be appreciated. Next bi-monthly grocery order date:15th January. Contact me now so you’re primed for the new catalogue on 3rd January. Buying Group FAQs * 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. If you would like to know more, please do get in touch. Wishing you all joy and many blessings. Mary Crail own inimitable style, with songs, stories, poems and dancing. Tickets to these are free, but limited, and online booking is strongly recommended. On the final day of the illuminations, Rosemoor will host a special Quantum Theatre production of ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’. Information and details on limited ticket prices, together with a booking link are available on line at rhs.org.uk/rosemoor. During the same period, there will

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also be our annual Winter Sculpture Exhibition, where visitors can enjoy the eclectic mix of exhibits set against the backdrop of the garden. Some of these will be lit up by the illuminations too to make them extra special. For more information on events at RHS Garden Rosemoor visit www.rhs.org. uk/rosemoor. Normal garden admission applies (free for RHS members). Garden open every day (except Christmas Day) 10am-5pm.

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This term, leading up to Remembrance Day, Year 9 have been studying the poetry from and about the First World War.Before meeting one of their WW1 poems for GCSE - ‘Bayonet Charge’ by Ted Hughes – 9G2 were shown some footage of a charge across no-man’s land and some words from Hughes’ poem. They were then asked to write their own poem with the title ‘Bayonet Charge’ before reading Hughes’ version – the pupils were amazed at how they were able to capture the experience. Here’s four superb examples of what they came up with: Bayonet Charge

My Men, I’ve led them this far, But now, a stale mood in the air, The bewilderment of every man, Lined up ….. for a bayonet charge. Pockets brimmed, Bullets scattered everywhere, The silent fear, Only the crackling of the fire to be heard. All eyes, in one direction, forward. Khaki Uniforms, Covering their numb bodies, Every man, Motionless, Waiting for the next chapter. “Fix Bayonets”, My order echoing down the trench, As my men fumble to mount blades to their rifles. Everything stopped. And then, I sound my whistle. I watch as the men I have led do far, Fall, mid-stride Baz Meeson, Year 9

Bayonet Charge

Tick tock tick tock, As we hear the watch ticking, We wait anxiously, Taking deep breaths as our bellies flip, The look of horror in our muddy faces, The silence is broken “One minute!” We start to get ready to charge, “Fix your bayonets!” We fix our bayonets, Our hands shaking with terror, You hear the bayonets click, We wait… Sergeant pulls the whistle out of his pocket, Sweat dripping down his face, We’re ready, The whistle blows, Our numb hands grab onto the damp ladders, As we climb out of the dirty trench with our bayonets, We charge forward, We see and hear the flames roaring, The smoke fills the air…, The bayonet charge has begun. Libby Brown, Year 9

Bayonet Charge

Adrenaline beats within the cold Sticks which hold the bayonet gun. A united breath of hidden agitation Not ordered but followed suit. Ears cloudy, a torment of reticence Yet clamour. Blood brimmed with hate and doubt and nerves. The muttering of others would calm, If not for terrors expected in flame. Eyes look down – and up – the whistle sounds, Pits in wool on palms brush against wood, Clasp the rung, next, next till someone presses play. The scene explodes. The heart beats, loud, screams, strangled gasps, Air is royal, shadows fall, The ghosts of smoke crawl from the sludge, My feet on pattern Steps smack the wire and run Into honour – only if I die today. Lauren Parker, Year 9

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Each year we also ask the pupils in Year 9 to write some creative prose, aiming to ‘walk in the footsteps’ of a WW1 soldier. Here’s Emma’s piece, which captures the horrors of the trenches very powerfully: Bayonet Charge

Silence. I could hear a pin drop Waiting for the call “Fix bayonets!” Fumbling in the pouring rain I get it on. Waiting for the whistle… Bayonet Charge. Heavy breathing surrounds me. Everyone waiting, A minute feels like an hour. And then suddenly the whistle Charge! Then in my own eyes I see the battlefield And then run in my heavy khaki uniform. I can feel the rain dripping down me Around me rifle’s firing Men some, I know some I don’t, flying Dying. Stumbling I look around. Someone is coming, Reaching out I stab them But then a sharp feeling in my heart. Groaning I stumble to the ground… Is this worth it for king and country? Aiden Cracker, Year 9

Hopeless Dreams

he rugged, rocky, rat-ridden trenches - the home to so much pain. The smell of rotting corpses overwhelmed me as I walked. Cries of agony rung out stealing the silence. I continued my heavy-hearted walk down the claustrophobic alley and saw a pair of boots undoubtedly belonging to another one of the fallen. The coat covering him was barely competent - fractured limbs and the cold, bloodshot, lifeless eyes were still on show. This was not the only example of the loss suffered; bodies littered the blood-corrupted snow, their eyes boaring holes into the already lifeless souls that lay here. The saturated ground squelched as I lay my mudcovered boots into it. I coughed trying to rid myself of the burning sensation in the back of my throat: the smoke did things to us - suffocating our already imprisoned humanity until there was nothing left. A man lay cowering in the corner; his cold lifeless eyes fixated on the bayonet in front of him. Crusted blood took place on it and the man- the effects of all the lifeless killing taking its toll on him. He flinched at every sound: the flinch was the only human-like thing that he did. So much pain and emotion sat behind his ossified eyes - all the depression willing to seep out but he would not let it. “Real men don’t cry” they told us – that’s a load of bull. I paused and listened as the distant, man-made thunder storm edged closer. It was like a rumour of some long-forgotten war but we all knew – we

all knew it was coming and sooner or later we would have to fight it. Mundane mumbles competed with the thunderous bombs to be heard although it was all in vain – nothing could out-do the deafening explosions. The devastation they caused was so vile that it was beyond the limits of human comprehension. My ears continued to ring as the stench of gunpowder became ever more evident. The storm was drawing in like a lion stalking its prey and soon enough, it would strike. The blare of the whistle screeched out across the waste-land as everyone scrambled to their feet and up the rusted, unstable ladders. All that was left were the bodies: they had lost their legacy long ago and were now no more than hopeless dreams. One had their gas mask discarded beside him – not quick enough my friend. The rats were the only liveliness in the trench; this was their dream – tonnes of rotting flesh to dig their teeth into. Stagnant water lay in mud-covered metal containers eagerly awaiting the soldiers return. This was a ghost town – no humanity could be found here. Guns chattered mocking the soldier’s only wish – to make it out of here alive. The never-ending trench corresponded well with the never ending pain. Aqueous ground matched the tear stained faces of the families when their loved ones had been lost. Fear over-ruled any other emotions other than that of the pain of losing the brave, young men of the country. Emma Quance, Year 10

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The Jewel in the Town

St�nning Sterling Silver Jeweller� Oﬃcial stockist of Fiorelli Silver, Henr�ka Amber & Shrieking Violet Perfect for your Christ�as giﬅs

5 Pannier Market , Tor�ing�on , EX38 8HD. 01805 624212 Visit: www.thejewelinthetown.co.uk

The Crier Prize Crossword This month’s prize is a £10 voucher for Jewel in the Town, perfect to treat yourself! Please send completed crosswords with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email a completed crossword image to torrington. crier@gmail.com.

The winner of last issue’s prize crossword was S J Chambers of Dolton, we hope you enjoy your prize! The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 11th January, the solution and winner will be in the February issue. The Jewel in the Town is a small jewellery shop in Torrington Pannier Market, selling good quality silver jewellery at very competitive prices and run by Valerie Slatter and Hazel Cooke, a mother and daughter team. We pride ourselves in stocking jewellery that is a little different to what you may find on the high street. We are official stockists of the Fiorelli silver range, which is designed in the heart of London; it is enhanced with rhodium plating for a sleek finish and is exceptional quality. We are also official stockists of Henryka Amber. Henryka have collaborated with Herefordshire wildlife trust and the British beekeepers association for some of their design ideas. The amber comes from the Baltic and their exclusive handcrafted designs are their unique selling point. If you wish to shop online or just have a look before you visit our shop, our website is www.thejewelinthetown.co.uk. We aim to give excellent customer service and we are sure you will find something for every occasion. Why not come in and take a look at our range, we hope to see you soon!

The Okehampton Choral Society at Christmas

New Look for Torrington’s 2018 Festival – Could You Help?

he Okehampton Choral Society has been busy preparing a very special selection of music for this year’s Christmas programme. The first half consists of a performance of the first section of Handel’s immortal oratorio “Messiah”: a firm favourite with singers and audiences alike, ever since it was first performed in 1742. After the interval, the sixty-strong choir will perform a selection of popular carols by composers including Bach, Willcocks, Mathias and Rutter, and there will be a chance for the audience to join the choir in well-known carols too. The organ accompanist is Roger Cleverdon and the concerts will mark the debut of the choir’s new conductor Andrew Wilson, who brings many years of experience as a composer, conductor and organist with him. Following 22 years as Director of Music at Kelly College in Tavistock, Andrew became Director of Studies of the National College of Music and organist and choirmaster of Okehampton Parish Church. There will be three opportunities to hear them this year: at Fairplace Church on Friday 8th and Friday 15th December, and also at St Mary’s Parish Church, Exbourne on Monday 11th December. All three concerts begin at 7.30pm. Tickets are available at £5 for adults and £2 for full-time students and children.

orrington’s ‘Round The Square’ music and art festival will be coming around again in 2018, and it is looking like it’ll be bigger and better but slightly different next time. In June, Torrington’s historic square was filled with music and dance, with gigs at the Plough, Church and Howe Hall. It helped raise over £1,300 towards getting the Town Hall open to the public, and so was successful in so many ways. Its purpose was simple; show off what Torrington has got, a lively spirit, great venues, and great independent shops in a beautiful square. Then, by bringing people into the town, we get to help regenerate it. Next time it is changing, as it should do. In 2018 it’s going to be held on the weekend of September 14th to 16th, so please keep that weekend free. It will keep the best of 2017: free children’s entertainment in the square, jazz band, dance and choir groups, but it will gain an even wider scope of activities and events for the town to join in with, so keep your eyes on The Crier for announcements. In 2018, rather being organized by just two people, it has a larger team and so will be better organized and promoted, in order to attract even more people. The team is looking for more people to join, so if you would like to be involved, please contact us via the Facebook page (details at the end). ‘Round the Square 2017’ will become ‘Torrington Music & Art Festival 2018’, to make it clear where it is and what it’s all about.

“Torrington is going to get an annual music and art festival. It’s going to be bigger and better than this year’s...” Torrington Music & Art Festival will have opportunities for corporate sponsorship of events, so if you know a company that would like to be involved, the organizers would love to talk to you. So there you have it! Torrington is going to get an annual music and art festival. It’s going to be bigger and better than this year’s highly successful one, and it can involve you! So we look forward to seeing you in the square on September 14th -16th and, if you can, please get involved to help make this a wonderful event that shows off , and helps regenerate, our beautiful town. Please contact the organizers with your generous offers of help via the Facebook page ‘Torrington music & art festival’, thank you and see you in the square next September.

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The new Christmas book from Philip J Liney

Available on Amazon.co.uk for £5.99

Meet the new Santa in town ...

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