Torrington Crier July 2020

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July 2020 The Crier is produced 10 times a year on behalf of the community, by The Crier Community Interest Company.

5900 copies are distributed throughout Great Torrington and the rural district.

Thursday 9th April 2.00—3.30pm

The Summer Reading Challenge 2020, will celebrate funny books, happiness and laughter.

Children taking part in the Challenge will join the Silly Squad, an adventurous team of animals who love to have a laugh and get stuck in to all different kinds of funny books! sillysquad.org.uk Join the challenge, get rewards, play games and earn badges as you discover awesome books to read this summer. #SummerReadingChallenge #SillySquad2020

Challenge ends 5th September 2020 Illustrations Š Laura Ellen Anderson 2020

Libraries Unlimited - the charity running Devon Libraries since 2016

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Read The Crier Online

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon.

We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication.

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk Town Distribution: Matt Joy Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

About The Crier...

The Crier is produced 10 times a year by The Crier Community Interest Company, a social enterprise, and aims to support the local community and local businesses, by providing a publication in which news, events and information can be shared throughout Great Torrington and the rural district.

Production costs are covered by advertising income. We would also like to thank Great Torrington Town Council for their support.

We would be very grateful if you could please ensure you inform any advertiser of where you saw their advert.

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

Disclaimer:

The Crier does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, legality or reliability of any information, product or service represented within our publication or on our web site. The information provided is for informational, educational or entertainment purposes only.

Anyone using the information provided by The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Crier from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use.

The Crier does not endorse or recommend any product, service or information found within said articles. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to The Crier belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Crier or its team.

Website links from The Crier or its website are provided for convenience only. The Crier is not responsible for the content or availability of any external or 3rd party sites and does not warrant or guarantee the products, services, or information found on these sites.

Tribute to Harold Martin

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ancy and Peter Hickman of Little Torrington would like to say thank you to the ‘angels without wings’ Jenny Glover, Lin Bailey and Sandy Styles, who have been helping them since lockdown began for them on 15th March.

Nancy and Peter are in their 80s and their medical issues mean that they have been isolating since that time. In the beginning they couldn’t get groceries delivered from any of the supermarkets and were very scared and worried about what they were going to do. Jenny, Lin and Sandy stepped in immediately, doing their food shopping, collecting prescriptions, dropping off cakes and ensuring they had regular socially distanced chats over the garden fence.

Nancy said that they are so incredibly grateful for everything these ladies have done for them and wanted to say thank you in a special way!

If you would like to say thank you to anyone in our community, please email torrington.crier@gmail.com or message our Facebook page @ torringtoncrier. If you don't have access to the internet, please call 01805 603152.

any of you will have seen the tributes in the local and regional newspapers to Harold Martin. These tributes are a measure of the esteem and respect with which Harold is remembered.

Harold was a trustee of the Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity and the Great Torrington Almshouse Charity for many years, involving himself in all aspects of our charitable work and he will be greatly missed. Friendly and approachable, his nature made him a great trustee, a true gentleman, always ready to help others. In his views and willingness to listen, he was balanced and fair, never dogmatic. He had a quiet reflective wisdom about him and he always wanted to learn more, whether it was on his farm or with the charities, councils, church or other organisations he supported. Harold left school at 15 and throughout his life mixed well with people at all levels, treating them the same whether aristocracy, members of parliament or just ordinary people. His civic involvement was diligent and committed, at village, town and district levels. Harold was Mayor of Great Torrington three times: 2007-2008, 2008-2009 and 20132014.

During the last few years he fought a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, but continued to work right up until the end. During this time he was sustained by the piece of music “You raise me up” by Brendan Graham..

The line “You raise me up to more than I can be” is so apt for Harold.

When I am down and, oh my souI so weary When troubIes come and my heart burdened be Then, I am still and wait here in the siIence UntiI you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas I am strong, when I am on your shouIders You raise me up: to more than I can be.

There is no life-no life without its hunger Each restless heart beats so imperfectIy But when you come and I am filled with wonder Sometimes I think I glimpse eternity.

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity 202801 Great Torrington Almshouse Charity 202802

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Commons News

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am sure that like me, you will all have been very thankful to have the Commons to walk on over these last weeks. The team have been doing a fantastic job keeping the paths strimmed so people can walk them while maintaining social distancing, and for the most part people have been using the Commons responsibly. We are still asking that people keep their dogs under close control, and that all mess is picked up.

We had to remove the top of a large tree on Barley Grove at the top of Castle Hill. If you stand on the bank above it, you can see that the branches were hollow and so is the trunk, sadly it had to come down as it was in such a busy spot.

Many people have asked when the car boot sales will start up again. I’m afraid my answer to this at the moment has to be ‘I don’t know’! We are in correspondence with our health and safety advisor and at the moment the restrictions and extra safety measures which would have to be taken make it impractical. Maybe next month I will have some better news.

I just missed being able to get the yearly report from our AGM in last month, so I am including it below. We were sorry not to be able to have our yearly public meeting.

Please look out elsewhere in the Crier for the article about our new supporter’s club, explaining how you can help us look after the Commons.

Chair’s report GTCC AGM I write this report at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. We are not able to hold our fourth public AGM and our formal AGM this year will be held via video conference.

Since our last meeting we have considered the comments made by members of the public on our management plan – mostly positive and with no major amendments to be made.

We have therefore ratified the plan and are now using it to inform our day-to-day management of the Commons, as well as giving us long term goals to aim for.

We have significantly improved the

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signage on the Commons Lake side of the Commons, with help from the Men’s Shed; we have installed a number of wooden fingerpost signs with smart metal ‘lollipops’ on the top. We have put small round Torrington Commons footpath signs on many of our less wellknown paths and have improved signage on the tree trail. When funds allow, we plan to extend this signage to the Castle Hill side of the Commons.

We have raised a substantial amount of funds for the improvement of the playpark at the Old Bowling Green, and though the planned phase one has not been able to go ahead, we will be ready to start as soon as restrictions are lifted.

Special mention must be given to Gerry Duffy for his efforts on this project.

We also held a number of general fundraising events over the last year, but we will have to make this our number one priority in the latter part of the coming year. We have lost most of our regular streams of income because of the pandemic, and though we had improved the income from our reserves, they are declining at an alarming rate.

We do have plans to try and redress this situation, from grant applications to the setting up of a supporter’s club which is on-going. Many thanks to Andrew Giles for his enthusiasm and expertise in this area.

The river and waterways remain healthy, and the last of the fishing steps

have been installed to the delight of many, not only anglers. We have also improved the access to the canal path along the river which was impassable in the winter, but is now a safe, dry path.

A number of trees have had to be removed due to them becoming unsafe, but as yet, ash die back is not prevalent as was feared. We continue to monitor and log the trees and take action as is necessary.

The litter situation remains good, chiefly down to the efforts of the Friends of the Commons, a great band of volunteers who strive to keep the Commons litter free.

We are continuing to keep a close eye on abutting planning applications; at least one major one will certainly have an impact on the Commons. We have met with the land owner, and discussed various options, our overriding aim being to minimise disruption to the land and public rights of way we control. Little has changed in this area in the last year.

We are looking to welcome a number of new people onto GTCC as soon as we are able to and are hopeful that we have some wonderful new people to join the board.

We continue to have an excellent set of staff, both working on the Commons, and in administrative roles, who all go over and beyond their expected duties and to whom we are very grateful.

Mandy Harrison, Chair

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Great Torrington Commons ‘365 Supporters Group’

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he Great Torrington Commons Conservators ‘365 Supporters Group’ is now live. The aim of the new scheme is to help to raise much-needed funds for the continued maintenance and improvements of Torrington Common, for the benefit of the public.

Many residents of Great Torrington use the Commons every day, and appreciate its natural beauty and the opportunity to escape back to nature especially in the last few months during the Covid-19 pandemic, when social distancing and exercise near home have

"The new ‘365 Supporters Group’ initiative seeks membership from people who love nature, and value what the Great Torrington Common has to offer..." become priorities. The Conservators make sure that the Act of Parliament Byelaws of 1889 (updated 2010) which govern the Common are adhered to, thereby ensuring that it continues to be accessible for all and provides a highly valued amenity.

Alan Mitchell, known to many as ‘Big Al’ is the Conservators’ Head Ranger, he and his ranger Jason Golder, along with a number of volunteer assistant rangers, work to look after the 365 acres of common land and its 20-plus miles of footpaths. Contractors are employed on an annual basis to cover the more specialist work and tasks that the Conservators do not have the equipment for, such as the annual cutting of Reeds Field and Quiet Possession.

The Conservators raise some income from the franchise agreements that are offered to businesses which have permission to operate on the Common; the popular Hockings Ice Cream and

Torrington Library News

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he Summer Reading Challenge 2020 is a new model to allow this fun reading activity to still take place this year. Themed the 'Silly Squad' this is a celebration of funny books, happiness and laughter, featuring artwork from award-winning children's author and illustrator, Laura Ellen Anderson.

Whilst our physical library has remained closed, our online service has eBooks ready and waiting for our young readers to enjoy. If you haven’t discovered your library online please go to www.devon.libraries.org.uk. You need your library card and PIN. If you have a library card but have misplaced your PIN, please email us at torrington.library@librariesunlimited with you card number and name and we will be happy to assist you.

Going to press there is movement afoot, so please watch Facebook pages @ TorringtonLibraryDevon or @DevonLibraries for updates on the service. Library staff have very much missed being in our active local library with our wonderful customers, and very much look forward to seeing you all again, even if things are a bit different initially.

Take care.

Kate Greaves, Torrington Library

Greedy’s burger vans are familiar favourites. Torrington Golf Club has a long- standing permission to utilise part of the Common.

The recent news is that Hockings ice cream is back, they were sorely missed during the lockdown.

They are trading using social distancing rules and are busy every day.

At the time of writing the Greedy’s burger van had not returned, hopefully they will soon.

The new ‘365 Supporters Group’ initiative seeks membership from people who love nature, and value what the Great Torrington Common has to offer them, their families and their pets. Membership is £2 per month. If the member is a taxpayer then an extra 50p per month can be claimed from the Inland Revenue in the form of Gift Aid.

365 Supporters Group members will have access to: * 365 Supporters Group members Facebook page * Guided walks * Free Tree Trail Commons map * Other exciting benefits will be announced soon.

365 Supporters Group members do not have to help with fundraising or maintenance of the Common, however, if they want to help it would be welcomed. There are currently vacant positions within the ‘Friends of the Common’ group, and on the Board as a Conservator for those with specific skills who live in Great Torrington, the Clerk can provide more information on these.

Applications to join the 365 Supporter Group can be made via the Vice Chair: vicechair@torringtoncommons.org If you would like to apply to be a Conservator or a Friend of the Common, please contact the Clerk for more information: clerk@torringtoncommons. org.

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Did You Know Mr Royston VGH Recommended Reads ‘The Giver of Stars’ by Jojo Moyes is a very absorbing and Drayton?

Do you know where/if he was buried or cremated in 1984/85? y way of introduction, I am Tony Barnes, a retired British Army officer who, as a hobby, researches the British occupation of the Faroe Islands in World War 2.

The late Royston Victor George Henry Drayton served on the Faroes with the Army (Gunner, 537 Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery) from 1942-45. When stationed on the Faroes, he had a relationship with a Faroese girl, Pouline Elisabeth Poulsen (1924 - 2002). As a result of the relationship, a daughter - Ellin Maud Katrine Drayton Hansen (1945 - 2017) was born. In 2018, I was asked by Mr Drayton's Faroese grandson, Bent Drayton Hansen, to research his British grandfather and, as a result, produced a booklet which included Mr Drayton's family history, copies of his birth, marriage and death certificates, a record of his Army service and a selection of paternity case documents referring to his Faroese child.

The grandson now wants to know where his grandfather is buried and would like a photograph of his grave. He is aware that his grandfather may have been cremated and that there may be no grave.

Mr Drayton, born 24 December 1921 in Shebbear, died 28 March 1984 in

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pertinent book to those used to regularly visiting libraries, about the setting up of a library in the Catskill Mountains in Kentucky.

The time is 1930 and a young English woman, Alice Wright, who is living a very constrained life in the very stuffy England of that time, is expected to find a wealthy husband in order to leave home and gain some freedom for herself. She meets a wealthy young American, Bennett Van Cleve, who is on a tour of Europe with his father, and to the sheltered Alice the thought of going to live in America as his wife is very exciting. However, Bennett’s father is autocratic and overbearing and so she finds herself ‘out of the frying pan and into the fire’. They marry and return to America, to Baileyville, a small town in southern Appalachia and here the story starts - what a rollercoaster of a story it is.

Bennett turns out not to be the kind of husband she was hoping for, nor indeed is she his kind of wife. She is persuaded, through boredom, to start up the ‘Woman’s Pack Horse Library’ with Margery O’Hare, who is a local troublemaker and daughter of a notorious felon, who is adventurous and just the sort of friend that Alice needs. She loves the mountains and the never-ending skies; she grows fonder of her little pony day by day and loves helping to change the lives of these impoverished backwoodsmen and women, word by word.

Alice finds she needs the help of a ‘ well thumbed’ book in the library, to open her eyes to what she needs physically from marriage, even though Bennett’s restrictive upbringing has not prepared him, or the other men of the town for this. It is 1930 remember, and all in the town are wondering whether they need the library (they were expecting cookery books and ‘Little Women’) after all, and so a battle of the sexes ensues.

All kinds of dastardly deeds occur; violence, court cases and floods, to name just a few, but the women of the pack horse library discover freedom, friendship and a life to call their own, so there is a happy ending, which is what we all want after all.

Bookworm

Torrington Cottage Hospital. His home address was 6 Marwood Court, Calf Street, Torrington and he was a retired meat factory worker.

Regrettably, enquiries made with local authorities and internet searches have been unsuccessful. The hope now is that a reader of this article can throw some light on where Mr Drayton was

buried or cremated, as well as supplying any information about the Drayton family in the Great Torrington area.

I can be contacted by email at 0341. tb@gmail.com or by phone - 01722 331983.

Pictured: Gunner Drayton on the Faroes - 1944.

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Hi everyone – Fabulous Freddie checking in.

Firstly I have to say a massive THANK YOU to everyone for the amazing support you have given the rescue following our appeal last month. To date you have managed to raise just under £1200, which means that I can continue to eat my bonios for a little while longer! Many people have been asking again how they can donate, and so Aunty Lynne has set up some very easy ways – either by visiting our website at www.k9focus.co.uk where there is a donation button; via PayPal at lynne@k9focus. co.uk or by the new text donation method below:* To donate £3, text DOGS01 to 70331 * To donate £5, text DOGS01 to 70970 * To donate £10, text DOGS01 to 7019 Basil (previously known as George) and Mylo told me that they are very keen to adopt a human, have been sifting through the various applications and are hopeful that a forever sofa will soon be waiting for them. Our lovely black and white collies have both found their own homes and while I miss running around with them, I know that they will certainly be enjoying their new surroundings and of course being spoilt!

Miss Sparky has also landed on her feet and is now in her 4EverFoster home in Hampshire. She has gone to a lovely home with a kind lady who specifically looks after German Shepherds – especially those that have special behaviour problems. She will continue to be a K9Focus sponsor dog and so if you would like to sponsor her

on a monthly basis, and receive details of her progress, then please email info@ k9focus.co.uk to get details of how to become a 4EverFoster sponsor. The 4EverFoster Scheme looks after very special dogs like me to ensure that we have a safe home for the rest of our lives – and of course ensure that we are very

spoilt!

While the rescue centre re-opened for rehoming last month, we did of course remain closed for day care and boarding and I, for one, certainly missed all the woofs that used to come to play and stay. I am pleased that we are now once again welcoming woofs to come to our facilities. We are also offering training sessions for both dogs and humans, as of course it is never us woofs that need training! Especially useful for any puppies and dogs that have not been socialised during lockdown. If you would like more details then do visit our website, give Aunty Lynne a call on 07971 461 806 or email lynne@k9focus. co.uk.

We now have another Aunty – Aunty Pat who is with us at the centre full time.

It’s a bit confusing as she goes under the title of Bimbles – that is because she ‘bimbles’ along most of the time (ssshhh don’t tell her I said that!). She has been busy over the last few weeks doing ‘K9focus Live’ on Facebook and this is now going to be a regular event, so you can see what we get all up to here and what fun we have. If you don’t have Facebook these will be recorded and put on our website each week, so do check us out. Obviously you will see a lot of me in all my finest and showing off my party tricks.

Times are still very difficult for us, especially with no dog shows or events, but we are surviving thanks to all our lovely local support. We are continuing to think of innovative ways to raise funds, and would ask for any help you can give on that front – perhaps doing an online quiz, a sponsored cycle or dog walk (socially distanced obviously), or an online karaoke session – let your imagination flow! You can email any ideas and we can always set up a Just Giving Page and/or promote on our social media.

Thanks to everyone again for the continued support – I am now off to make myself look even more handsome ready for the next ‘K9focus Live’ session.

Take care, keeps safe and be with you again next month.

Licks & Woofs, Freddie xx

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Coronavirus & Support For Businesses

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t the time of writing (9th June 2020) we are seeing a gradual release of lockdown measures, although concerns perhaps remain about the risks of a second wave of infection.

Businesses are now grappling with the thought of re-opening and this is being supported and/or encouraged by the changes in support provided by the Government.

The main sources of assistance that remain in place are the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) and the Job Retention Scheme (JRS). I set out below the current position for each scheme.

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) The scheme went live on 13th May 2020 and by now many self-employed individuals will have made their initial claims.

Not everyone will qualify to make an application, and the application itself sets a number of conditions to be passed before a legitimate claim can be made.

There is a simple online tool for checking your eligibility to make a claim which can be found at:www.tax.service.gov.uk/selfemployment-support/enter-uniquetaxpayer-reference After the Chancellor announced the extension of the JRS, there was concern that the SEISS had not been mentioned.

I am glad to report that the SEISS has now been extended to include a second (and it should be noted ‘final’ grant) to cover the period June 2020 to August 2020.

This second grant should be available

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to apply for from August 2020, but will be a lower percentage of 70% of monthly ‘trading profits’ and will be capped at a lower monthly rate of £2,190 per month.

We expect full technical details of the extended grant scheme to be published on Friday 12th June.

Job Retention Scheme (JRS) Major changes to the scheme are due to be implemented from 1st July 2020, these are designed to allow flexible working whilst still being on furlough.

The changes are as follows:* From 1st July 2020 employers will be able to return furloughed workers on a part-time or reduced hours basis while still claiming from the JRS for the hours the employee is not working. * The JRS will be closed to employees who have not already been furloughed for a minimum of three weeks under the existing scheme as at 1st July 2020. * The scheme remains closed for those employees who did not start with their current employer and were included in an RTI submission or before 19th March 2020. * From 1st August 2020 employers will be asked to pay the employer’s national insurance contributions and pension contributions. * From 1st September 2020 employers will also be asked to contribute 10% of the wages of furloughed staff whilst the Government’s contribution will fall to 70%. * From 1st October 2020 the employer contributes 20% of wages with the Government’s contribution falling to 60%. * The scheme is then set to close on 31st October 2020.

The Crier is delighted to be supporting our local businesses through Coronavirus, so many of them are going over and above to help our community at this difficult time. It has definitely shown just how important they all are.

As always, please Think Local wherever possible and support those who support you.

The challenge remaining for business is the degree of uncertainty regarding the impact of the virus and the health and safety measures that need to be put in place to re-open safely. Even though the above schemes have been extended, many difficult decisions will likely need to be made before the year is out and seeking advice from appropriate sources will be as important as ever.

As Chartered Accountants, we are used to helping our clients through difficult circumstances and decisions and we will be here to help as is necessary.

If you have any questions or need assistance. Contact Keith Berry on 01805 628122 or email keith.berry@ berrysaccountants.co.uk Keith Berry FCA (Berrys, Chartered Accountants)

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

through the village, a brightly-lit floats, inclu

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&J Opticians remain committed to providing the very best16 patient care through this Covid-19 outbreak. At the time ofearlier writing,times: we aretostill in the in even Roman earned millions of dollars the in royalties Enrico Caruso red phase of the pandemic during which we are only permitted to carry festival of Flora, goddess of fruit and from the retail sales of the resulting (25thFebruary 1873 –been Year 10 eye have flowers.

This tradition, symbolizing rebirth out essential and urgent care.

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What a however, great there our areemails no and fair shame or festival for We are, monitoring manningHe ourwas telephones, so live please Company. later heard from Moreover, in keeping with the spirit of digital mastered recordings of Caruso. contact us if you English are worried about your eyesthe andstage feel that you need an their GCSE assessment. ofchildren the may Metropolitan rejuvenation, are the focalOpera point One cannot imagine how wonderful his essential or urgent appointment.

Due to reduced staffing levels, you may need to Here is Charlotte’s timely reminder House in the first public radio of the festivities.

Much against Mr Gove’s voice leave asuch message; weshould will get treasure. back to you asbetter soon as we of onewas. fair we broadcast in can.

1920. wishes, Torrington’s schools are Caruso’s career,or stretching What might25-year be essential urgent? Please contact 01805 628271, In the next issue I will tell community youif:about closed tous on allow full 1895 has to 1920, included 863 *from Your vision blurred or operatic has changed some of his roles. participation.

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York Until then good listening appealing than watching the crowning of that you are finding For Our Spring Fair Opera and/or beforered he eye. died of the May Queen? The procession of boys Bob Dymond *Metropolitan You have a painful we allow Torrington’s to anCan infection at the age of 48.tradition His fame and 111 girlsor in brightly coloured costumes * You have been advised to contact us by NHS another healthcare dwindle? has lasted to the present day, despite would melt any heart.

Ribbons rippling, professional for urgent eye Torrington W.I. What picture comes and intocare. your mind the limited marketing promotional skirts skipping and the band blasting: the *avenues Youryou glasses are broken or lost and you need a repair or replacement in orderplace to when think of Torrington’s May Fair?

Our Annual Meeting will take available to him. He was, maypole is ceremoniously woven. th For many it is the image of the maypole, function.

We are will onJust Wednesday 9 November. nonetheless, a client of Edward as the colours on the maypole laughter and sunshine; would be *Bernays You have a problem with ityour contact beFair electing new during the latter’s tenure as alenses. intertwined, so the May breaksadown difficult to and imagine Torrington without it. to meet your needs and may James Anita assess how best be toand President social barriers asable it appeals press agent in thewill USA. Publicity in Yet today, our historic tradition is committee for the answer your queries by phone or video link.

An appointment for you at the practice to everyone.

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Local prepare the practice and adapt our procedures for entering amber the Caruso’s biographers, Pierre Key, heritage. In this fast age of dignitaries areenhanced happily experienced inand the have last year and then pandemic.

We have a detailed risk assessment put Bruno Zirato and carried Stanley high-tech gadgetry, massout Jackson peltedpreview inmodified the of stocks and getting a sneak speakers attribute his fame not only to his voice infection control procedures in place: including social distancing, clinical media and instant subjected to duckings.

The booked for 2012.

Cups and prizes will and musicianship, to between a keen appointments to allow time for disinfection procedures and time gratification, thereincreased is but little also time Mayor has awho lavish lunch, to be awarded for those did best business sense andmatters: an embrace left forequipment what really of the and surfaces.

In the of amber phase, attendance at the practice forin which many are invited.

The ourand optional monthly competitions, and community Today, more commercial sound recordings, in any reason life. will continue to be bythen appointment, we will be limiting the number of town crier be bellows as tea he there will, of course, time for than ever, it is essential to its infancy.

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It will betime necessary wear aofmask or face covering and you will need his predecessors The Torrington Being rather nifty and at getting through week of annual festivity fosters phonograph and their Silver Band pulsates like the beating to attend alone(gramophone) or, if you require assistance, with just one other person. the business side of things, we will also friendship, a sense of belonging andbut a voices have been lost as a result, heart of the community.

We will keep changes developments. hesitate to link with our past.you Weinformed cannot letofthis die. andmanage a bit ofPlease time todon’t welcome Bob other singers including Adelina Patti, The your grand finale of the May Fair week contact us if you are in any way concerned about eyes or vision.

However, until As you walk the cobbled of our Brewer, who will give us the low-down Francesco Tamagno and streets Nellie Melba the carnival, spectacle light and we havetown, passed the red and amber The phases,is please do not acome to theofpractice. ancient breathe antiquity. on the Cavaliers. exploited theyounew technology once sound. Fanciful floats journey through the Contact uslinks by email (enquiries@aandjopticians.co.uk) phone (01805 May present-day Torrington We whilst startorthe at 7pm in are the628271).

Methodist they Fair became aware of the success of town streets lined with with the past,information transportingabout us to contact a bygone For more lens wear during the outbreak, please visit Church Hall, and prospective members cheering children. In the packed town Caruso’s recording sessions. era – when life wasand simpler. www.bcla.org.uk information about eye andnoeye carefor during the areconditions veryyou welcome tochoice visit free.

Any square, have but to mingle Caruso made moreforthat 260 extant Torrington has hosted the annual May ornew pandemic, please visit fightforsight.org.uk lookafteryoureyes.org members paying their subs this and make new friends. recordings in America for the Victor Fair since that 1554.

However, many We hope you stay well(later and we look forward seeing you all soon. month, 14 months for priceThe of ‘Uztoget be plaised to again zeethe ee!’

Talking Machine Company, RCA celebrations in England have their origins A & J Opticians 12.

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Mural Forms Part of Town’s th Devonian dialect is strung across the November there will be a On Tribute! the 16 NHS square – Torrington is known as a lunch at Barnstaple in aid of ACWW,

friendly town and this is no better the Associated Country Women of the displayed than at the May Fair. In this era World, of which the WI nationally is a of social isolation, the May Fair provides member. widely known, the the medicineNot of friendship, inclusion and ACWW has representatives from many support. The fair encourages community nationalities; working relief for of life as the young and oldtowards join together poverty and sickness, promoting health the common good. What better way is and advancing education.

It’s down-tothere to bring neighbours together? earth approach offersfarmutual support People come from and wide to and the practical to Fair. women and enjoy delightshelp of May They also communities acrosswith the them! world. The fair bring their money replenishes coffers of the and townthe – To find outthe about the ACWW providing welcome boost to the local Women's a Institutes nationwide, visit economy – such a help in difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk Businesses use about the carnival as W.I. an Any queries Torrington opportunity to ofadvertise their wares. ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on s part Great Torrington’s Charities also benefit: collection tins are 01805 623588. tribute to the NHS, a mural soon full to overflowing. was privately commissioned to Yet it is often argued that historic celTorrington adorn theGreat outside of a and house at the New ebrations are archaic anachronistic.

Street/Warren Lane junction, the idea Town Hall Project On the contrary, Torrington’s festivities being some colour forappears May Fairin By to thebring time this reportIn revitalise the old traditions. the current climate of you apathy, laziness and in the absence of thewill carnival The Crier, have noticed indifference, theis May lifts our spirits scaffolding has been put As Torrington TheFair Cavalier Town, and Torrington into awith vibrant up theme totransforms facilitate the the was to berepair a Cavalier community.

Despite the continual of the roof and make the the NHS rainbow colours incorporated, development of modern technology and building water-tight forshows and the completed work a increasing time spent at computer the winter.

It sword will be defiant Cavalier, drawn and with screens, last year’s record-breaking enclosed in waterproof his cape painted in the appropriate turnout shows there is the still aworking place forarea live sheeting to mural protect colours.

The took about a entertainment.

Given the choice of and totominimise any to the internal week andrisk itorisparticipating hoped, playing acomplete video game in fabric.

At the will same time, a series of once removed, on display the buzz of the fair, be I know which Iatwould photoelectric panels will be installed, to choose… the Bonfire site in the near future, if reduce running-costs, perhaps Today, the new enemy ofand a large-scale permitted. provide an income for the project by town is ‘Health Safety’.

The event artist, Damo, wasand pleased with As sellingcrowds surplus power to thebeNational huge gather, it could argued the result and it attracted many positive Grid. that there is a danger of an accident. reviews and seemed to be being well received Although this all work carried Nowadays, with theisridiculous rules by passers-by.

Will another its to out by the Townlands payment and regulations it is Trust, a take struggle place? will be taken from funds set aside organise anything.

In this age for of countless litigation, our town isAce in the project, which would havehall included

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From Your County Councillor…

O

nce again I would like to start effect any rise in visitors will have in the become ‘business as usual’ again, the this community. priority of the County Council is to help article As the lockdown restrictions begin to and protect the old, the young and the by thanking ease, we will start to see the reopening vulnerable during this pandemic and everyone in of our local economy. Many shops will beyond. This is particularly true of our Torrington Rural start to re-open and I have been working care home residents. Devon County for the part you with the Town Council, the Chamber of Council has been allocated £10.5 million are all playing Trade, and the District Council to ensure by the Government, as part of its support to overcome the we can see this achieved safely and package for care homes, and this fund coronavirus. I effectively in Torrington Town Centre. will support adult social care providers would also like I attended a virtual meeting organised to reduce the rate of transmission inside to pay tribute to by the Town Council with Town traders and between care homes, as well as the many schools and businesses and representatives supporting the wider workforce. within Torrington from the District Council to discuss Thankfully the number of care home Rural who have worked so hard to allow re-opening plans. Clearly, while social outbreaks in Devon has been one of the for their partial re-opening. Although distancing remains in place, we must do lowest in the country, and we continue lockdown restrictions have started to what we can to ensure pedestrians and to have a lower proportion of reported ease, I know it has been a trying time for traders can use the Town Centre safely. outbreaks within our care homes than many families and households.

The approach we are taking is a the regional and national benchmarks.

Fortunately, at the time of Local PPE stocks in Devon "The recorded number of coronavirus cases, both continue to be stable and DCC writing, our local efforts do locally and across Devon, remains low and there is will continue to work closely appear to be working. The recorded number of coronavirus still a large capacity within the NHS to cope with with the care sector to manage any spike in cases. As of June 10th, there have been this ongoing situation. cases, both locally and across Devon, remains low and there Lastly, as we see some just 36 recorded coronavirus cases in Torridge is still a large capacity within District, with no new cases recorded in the previous more easing of the lockdown the NHS to cope with any spike some more regular activities three weeks. " in cases. As of June 10th, there of the County Council will have been just 36 recorded coronavirus cautious but practical one. There are, recommence. This includes in Highways cases in Torridge District, with no new at the time of writing, no plans for any where regular drainage maintenance, cases recorded in the previous three road closures and vehicular access will which was suspended apart from weeks. You can look at the latest local, be maintained, but we are looking at emergency maintenance, will resume County and national figures on the suspending an on-street parking space from mid-June, alongside more Government website here - https:// outside the Co-Op, to allow pedestrians resurfacing and patching repairs. The coronavirus.data.gov.uk/ to pass by at a safe social distance from Department for Transport has recently Importantly, we have now seen the those who are queuing to use the shops confirmed that Devon will receive an launch of ‘Track and Trace’ testing and on that side of South Street. If there are additional £27 million of funding, and I Devon County Council has been made other ‘pinch points’ identified, we will look am hopeful that we will see some of the one of 11 ‘Beacon Councils’ across the at taking similar measures, though at the benefits of this in Torrington Rural.

UK – and the only one in the South West time of writing I do not anticipate there As ever, there is a lot more work going – to help launch this service. being many more parking suspensions. on that I could report, but I hope this has Significantly, the ‘Beacon Council’ We also intend for these measures to provided a useful summary of the main status gives Devon County Council the be enacted in a ‘low key’ style – none of issues. I am still available to contact and flexibility and autonomy to develop our us want to see the Town Centre divided if there is any County Council matter I own locally based plans to monitor and up by unappealing and unattractive crash can help with, please get in touch. You control the spread of any infections and barriers with roads or pavements blocked can ring me on 07886 446 560 or email manage any local outbreaks. off. Clearly the situation will evolve as andrew.saywell@devon.gov.uk.

This will include being able to safely Government guidance changes, and monitor more closely, and contain, any the pandemic eases, but I will continue outbreaks in schools, care homes, and to work closely with all involved to help workplaces. Local Track and Trace also ensure we get our local economy back gives the County Council the ability up and running while maintaining social to monitor closely during the holiday distancing. season, should we have one, and what While it will be sometime before things

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Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

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s I write we're preparing for our June order, which at present looks to be more modest, probably because many of our members are pretty well stocked, given that since March we have offered monthly ordering instead of bi-monthly. Before entirely committing to 12 orders per year, I would like to see how August ordering goes, as it's a time when normally many people are away. The more members we have, the easier these transitions to offering more and better services are, so come on now, what are you waiting for? New members are very welcome.

Whilst it's rather frustrating not to be able to proceed with our ‘Getting Started Socials’, lockdown has meant we've fine-tuned our system, so by and large it runs very smoothly. Supplies of different flours are still erratic and some companies are struggling more than others to maintain their product lines. When ordering tomato products one needs to be flexible and prepared to go with the brands that are available. However, overall the situation is gradually improving and we consider ourselves really fortunate to be able to access the vast majority of what we need, most of the time.

Well-being Tip: Growing our Own The events of the past few months have meant many people have had more time to spend in their garden, rediscovering the pleasures of growing at least a little of their own produce, teaching and having fun with the children, connecting with nature and the source of our food. Children who are involved in growing food are much more likely to eat well, and to continue these habits on into adult life, so the time we spent gardening with them becomes an inestimable gift.

Recent events have highlighted the fact that we all need to become more selfreliant, as the apple cart of global supply is so easily drastically disrupted. As Dr Zac Bush describes in his excellent YouTube video 'Coronavirus: The Great Awakening', the health of the soil is closely linked to the health of our own blood. We have quite a number of gardeners amongst the Buying Group members; both newbies, amateurs, old hands and professional vegetable growers, so we've recently been offering surplus plants for pick up with order collection. There's no satisfaction like that of harvesting and eating your own produce – it may not look perfect, but if you haven't already done so, you'll discover flavour, freshness, nutrition and LIFE in a different class to most shop bought produce.

The growing, harvesting, cooking and preserving and eating of home grown produce involves so much more than providing us with fruit and vegetables - exercise, fresh air, sunshine, relaxation, peace and quiet, family time, connection with nature, sharing and learning in a fun way. It grounds us with a real understanding and appreciation of the cycle of life and that speed, instant gratification, easy come-easy throw away means we not only deprive ourselves of so much, but we also throw ourselves concerningly out of balance.

Next grocery final order date: 16th July Next body care final order date: 2nd July How do I join? Via our Facebook page or website, full info on the website!

What does membership cost? Free What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623 307/email mary@ marycrailwellbeing.co.uk OWBG Website: https://owbg.jimdofree.com/ Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Twitter: Follow us @owbg1 or #owbg Facebook: Mary Crail Biofeedback & Wellbeing www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk Mary

Spring Cleaning Covid Style I’m clearing out my cupboards, A Covid-friendly chore, Delving to the back of every one It’s a great way to explore All the packets, jars and tins Most near their “best by” date, Did I really want all these cans of soup?

Well I’ve got them, any rate.

Then lurking on a topmost shelf I find to my surprise A very fancy pot of jam It was a raffle prize.

And next to that another jar, Its content covered in green fluff, Something seems to tell me I should get rid of all this stuff.

Then on to the beverage store Where I keep my supply of tea, Lo and behold there’s a selection box Someone once gave to me.

I thought “why not open this And have a taster of Earl Grey, Then perhaps I can try Darjeeling On another day?”

Up into the bathroom next, It’s crammed full of nice surprises, Bath crystals and shower gels All in various disguises.

I can have baths full of bubbles And delight in luxury and smell If they’re so old they don't froth up It won’t matter – what the hell?

Next I come to the bedroom With drawers stuffed up to the brim, Then there’s the wardrobe to sort out It’s really looking grim But when coronavirus is over Just between me and you It will simply be delightful To try on something new!

Stephanie Easton

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From Your District Councillors…

W

e hope everyone is keeping well in these strange times.

As a result of Covid-19, rather than meeting in person we have been having virtual video council meetings via Zoom which is working very well (as long as there is a good internet connection!). One of our meetings this month was with developer Red Earth, who went through their initial plans to develop Brunswick Wharf in East-theWater. They have a website showing the designs and we’re encouraging people to give feedback and ideas via their online survey.

There have also been new and interesting meetings across District, Town and Parish councils with regard to renewable energy projects, and Chris Fuller at TDC has been working hard together with the Town Council and local traders on strategies for the town centre to promote safer shopping; this could include a one-way system on pavements around the square, and using some car parking spaces around the square to allow for safe queueing distances.

Staff at Torridge District Council have been working extremely hard to deliver government Covid grants, and we’re really pleased that many businesses in and around Great Torrington have been able to benefit from this, including town and village halls and a number of local community groups in the town.

If you have been unable to receive a business grant, please get in touch as you may be eligible for a discretionary grant which is now being administered

Torrington Town Hall - Covid 19 Update

I

f you need to hire a space which is safe and adheres to Government guidelines on social distancing - our Great Hall is the perfect space! The Great Hall is 49ft long and 23ft 6ins wide, with two separate staircases for safe one-way entry and exit. Log on to www.greattorrington-townhall.org and see the pictures of the space. If you are interested in hiring the Great Hall, or are planning a future event and would like more information, please ring Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192. * Weddings at the Torrington Town Hall If you are planning your wedding and looking for a unique venue that offers, Bronze, Silver and Gold inclusive wedding packages, please ring Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192 for an informal chat. We can tailor our exclusive packages to ensure your special day is a truly memorable one. * Torrington Job Club & Community Hub Every Monday 10am to 1pm – Torrington Town Hall We began opening from 10am to 1pm every Monday on 22nd June (in line with Government Covid 19 guidelines). If you are seeking employment or information about accessing courses/workshop which will help you enhance your return to work, we look forward to welcoming you.

If you are a local employer with positions to fill, please contact Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192 – keep it local! * Pop Up Shop Saturday 4th July in The Great Hall – Torrington Town Hall 10am to 3pm Huge thanks to everyone who has donated clothes and goods for our regular ‘Pop Up Shops’, which help raise money for the upkeep of your Town Hall. We will be holding our next Pop Up Shop in the Great Hall on 4th July (all in line with Government Covid 19 guidelines) so come along and grab a bargain and support your local Town and Community Hall. If you have anything you would like to donate, I am happy to come and collect (at a safe distance of course!). Ring or leave a message with Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192, many thanks! to various organisations who were unable to receive the initial grant. There are also coronavirus grants for sports and physical activity groups via Sport England.

On a national scale we have been extremely concerned by what is happening with the Agriculture Bill and have been lobbying MP Geoffrey Cox. There is currently the potential for substandard food to enter our food chain

in future trade deals (such as chlorinated chicken and hormone-treated beef) which is an issue not just for our farmers, but for all of us as consumers and we encourage everyone to contact our MP on the matter.

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

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Tarka Valley Railway News

D

espite the lockdown, we were very fortunate in getting the pointwork delivered the day before shutdown. It was dropped in place pending easing of restrictions.

We were unable to progress any work until very recently, when there was a slight lifting of restrictions allowing a small number of socially-distanced volunteers to be on site when overgrown vegetation was cleared, and the pointwork temporarily clipped into place.

The task will be completed when the site fully opens.

In my last report, I mentioned that we were aiming to raise £1,500 via the Aviva crowdfunding appeal. I am delighted to say that we reached £2,500. Huge thanks to all who supported us.

Despite this success, we are now looking for further funds for a road/rail dumper to be used for carrying items up and down the track. This will cut down on the use of wheelbarrows and unloading by hand, as well as eliminating dumper hire. The equipment will cost us approximately £10,000. We know that fundraising is particularly difficult for charities in the current climate, but all donations are welcome. Our bank details are Barclays 20-04-59, a/c 33321045, Tarka Valley Railway CIO. Cheques can be sent to Tarka Valley Railway CIO c/o Puffing Billy, Station Hill, Torrington EX38 8JD. Latest news and weekly updates with photos can be found on our Facebook page. Our website is still in the process of being updated and more information will be available as soon as possible.

Rob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

Great Torrington Heritage Museum & Archive

Sad News… he Museum has some very sad news to report in this month’s Crier. Sue Scrutton, the Museum’s Archivist, died on Friday May 29th. She will indeed be greatly missed by everyone, but most certainly by all in the Museum. We knew if we had a query about a person or a building in Torrington, Sue would probably know the answer. There were many people she helped here, and abroad, to trace their ancestors that lived in Torrington. Nothing was ever too much trouble, and she spent many hours in Barnstaple Library’s records department, and also the record office in Exeter, making sure all the details were correct before passing it on.

She thoroughly enjoyed life, and in later years took herself off on a cruise to Norway to see the polar bears and the Northern Lights. She also took many of us on a steam train trip to Minehead, and provided the picnic lunch, a most wonderful outing. She wrote a most interesting, beautifully illustrated and readable book on the Rolle Canal, as well as putting together a display explaining the history of the Canal.

Sue has donated all her archive material and books to the Museum. It is the most marvellous record of everything connected with the town, and includes the people, the buildings, and especially all the events. We, the town, the Museum and its people are extremely lucky to have had a person who has collected all this information.

In time the Museum will have all the archive material put into a digital format, which will then be accessible on the internet for everyone.

On a private note, Peter and I had the most marvellous days out with Sue, which were always interesting and full of fun, we shall certainly miss her.

Val Morris

T

The June Issue Cover Girls

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expect many of you will have recognised my mother and her best friend on the cover of the June Crier.

Muriel Pitts and Cathy Weeks were real characters in supporting Dr Cramp, the Cavaliers or any other Torrington cause back in the day. They had great fun with many an event; carnival, knees-up or any occasion. I hope you have fond memories of having your leg pulled by them. If you managed to pull their legs, then very well done.

Muriel is still a character - living at Castle House Nursing Home where she is very well looked after and is happily settled. I am sure, if she were able, she would send her very best wishes, especially at this unprecedented time. I am not sure that she is fully aware of the current events. Perhaps that is no bad thing.

John Pitts

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Your Council, Working for YOU

From Your Mayor…

I

can’t believe I am beginning my second term as Mayor of Great Torrington; thank you all for your support over the last 12 months.

It’s been incredible serving our wonderful town and I’m looking forward to continuing to do so. This next year will be different, but I know as a community we will embrace the challenges and come out stronger.

I have been very proud to raise funds for the Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club and the 1st Torrington Scout Group, and it was lovely to see you supporting these local groups through various fundraising events. I am very pleased to say that we have raised a total of £4500; money which will be divided equally and I know, gratefully received by both groups and will hopefully serve to help them continue their fantastic work.

(Please note this sum does not include sponsorship for my postponed sky dive.

Once I have done this, these funds will be divided and sent separately to these groups).

At this point I choose two new charities to support over the next 12 months, and

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it hasn’t been an easy decision. Will suggested that I look back over the last year at who has made a real impact, so my first charity is the Torrington Silver Band. They were all very welcoming at the events I’ve been invited to, they are the beating heart of the town, and I look forward to supporting them in any way I can over the coming year.

My second charity is the Friends of Great Torrington Library. Being a keen reader myself, I know how vital this service is to a broad range of individuals in our community. As well as being able to access a wide range of resources, the library offers events and support for all ages. I fondly remember doing the Book Track program as a child and would love to see more people taking an interest in reading.

Again, at this point, I would usually award the Mayor’s Award to an individual or group at our Mayoral Introduction Ceremony. Naturally this event was unable to go ahead, but I would like to announce that this year’s chosen recipient is ‘The Great Torrington Knit and Natter Group’: a recently formed group meeting every Wednesday to knit/crochet and share companionship. The defining moment for me was the incredible work that went into our fantastic poppy display for Remembrance celebrations last

year. This was a wider community effort, but with the group forming and coordinating the display, it became a breath-taking piece. I’ve also received comments about how warm, welcoming and friendly the group is, with some members even travelling from outside of Great Torrington for weekly meetings.

Community is what our town thrives on and so I know that this community group are truly deserving of the award.

As a council, we have been trying to resume some normal proceedings by commencing virtual meetings. It’s all very different but as we all adjust it is working well. By the time you read this we will have held our first full council meeting (25th June 2020). I hope you are all continuing to stay safe, and perhaps that you have managed a socially distanced catch up with friends or relatives.

Businesses are adapting to the ‘new normal’ as shops start to re-open and I know our traders appreciate your support and consideration as they adjust to this change.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need anything at all.

Keeley Allin – Mayor of Great Torrington.

Cllr.allin@great-torringtontowncouncil. gov.uk 07783 711 500

In Memory Harold & Gillian

W

e have been greatly saddened at the deaths of two local people over the past couple of months, both of whom have been connected to the Town Council at some time. Harold Martin, a former Town Councillor and also three times Mayor of Great Torrington in 2007, 2008 and 2013 and Gillian Saich, who volunteered at the Town Council offices from time to time.

Harold served the town in many ways, with associations with various groups; however, we remember him as a keen Councillor who was passionate about local matters; well-respected, trusted and a man of integrity. Whilst he had not served the Council for a few years, we continued to be grateful for his input and dedication whilst he did. We are also conscious that Harold was faithful in

New Website for Great Torrington Town Council

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reat Torrington Town Council is pleased to announce the launch of its new-look website. All of the information from the previous website has been migrated onto a new platform which we hope users will find easier to navigate, especially when accessing it via smart phones and tablet devices.

In addition, the new website is now fully compliant with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. These are an internationally recognised set of recommendations for improving web accessibility for everyone, including users with impairments to their vision, hearing, mobility and thinking/understanding.

The new website can still be found at the following address: www.greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk. We hope you will find it easier to use and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any ideas for further improvements, or if you would like to have something added to the website for the benefit of the community.

You can contact us via phone on 01805 626135 or e-mail at admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

his work with a number of organisations across the town up to his death.

Gillian volunteered in the Council offices for a number of years, and was an enthusiastic and supportive individual who we know was also very involved with a number of other initiatives and organisations across the community.

Both Harold and Gillian will be sorely missed by many, many people, and the community of Great Torrington is much the poorer because of these losses. We would like to wish both sets of family and friends our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time.

Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Reopening of Non-Essential Retail in Great Torrington

This notice was prepared on 11 June 2020 n preparation for the reopening to the left pavement, which has the effect of non-essential retail in Great of creating a one-way pedestrian flow Torrington, the Town Council held around the town centre (South Street, a virtual meeting via video-conference High Street) with many of the town traders, * Plans to temporarily suspend some of representatives from Torridge District the parking bays and therefore widen the Council’s Economic Development team pavement outside Coop and Whiskers and our County Councillor, Andrew Pet Centre on South Street are being Saywell, on 3rd June 2020. The aim of discussed. This will allow for customers this meeting was to discuss plans for to queue for these shops and allow reopening shops from 15th June 2020, pedestrians to pass at a safe distance and how we can all work together to as they walk up South Street towards help make the shopping experience Sydney in the town centre as safe as possible * Traders are using Government for the community. The Town Council guidance to help prepare their shops would like to thank all participants for for reopening, including implementing taking the time to join what was a very measures such as Perspex screens at collaborative meeting, despite some pay-points, provision of hand sanitiser at technological challenges, and to share shop entrances and limiting the number their suggestions and ideas. of customers permitted in a shop at one During the meeting traders shared time. ideas about how to keep customers Please note that by the time this article and staff safe once more shops reopen, is published in The Crier, the situation ‘pinch points’ where pavements are may have changed and some of these narrow/many shoppers queue were proposed adaptations and actions may identified with possible solutions have been revised. The Town Council, discussed, and new social distancing along with the traders and District and signage for the town was reviewed.

County Councils will be continually At the time of writing this article, the reviewing any changes implemented following actions are being undertaken: in the town centre to ensure we keep * ‘Keep Left’ and ‘Keep Your Distance’ up to date with the latest Government signage is being prepared by Torridge guidance and to take into consideration District Council to be placed in town feedback on how any adaptations made centres across the district. are working in practice. * This signage includes boards and floor If you have any suggestions you would stickers which ask pedestrians to keep like to share with the Council, on how

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Drain clearing Drain clearing CCTV surveys CCTV surveys Repairs/Relining Repairs/Relining Septic Tank Septic Tankand and Treatment plant Treatment plantinstallation installation Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251

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we can continue to make our town safer during the coronavirus outbreak, please do not hesitate to contact us via phone on 01805 626135 or e-mail at admin@ great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Please note: The Council telephones are manned on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays only.

Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

The Mayor’s Good Citizen Award 2020

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llr Miss Keeley Allin has awarded her Good Citizen Award for 2020 to The Great Torrington Knit and Natter Group which has recently formed and meets every Wednesday to knit/crochet and share companionship. The defining moment being the incredible work that went into the fantastic poppy display in the Town Hall for Remembrance celebrations last year. This was a wider community effort but with the group forming and coordinating the display, it became a breath-taking piece. Cllr Allin said, “I have also received comments about how warm, welcoming and friendly the group is, with some members even travelling from outside of Great Torrington for weekly meetings.

Community is what our town thrives on and so I know that this community group are truly deserving of the award”.

Great Torrington Town Council

Great Torrington Remembers- Private John Weeks

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ohn was born in Great Torrington in 1881. He was the son of George and Elizabeth Weeks, born in 1856 and 1858 respectively. His father was born in Great Torrington and his mother hails from Merton. He was one of twelve children.

In 1891 the family address is Castle Street, Great Torrington. The household consists of the head of household George, a carpenter; his wife, Elizabeth; the eldest daughter, Maud, a gloveress; as well as John, at this point aged 10 years and his brother and sister, George and Annie, are all scholars. The youngest two daughters, Mary and Gertrude, are pre-school age.

The 1901 census finds the family living at 119 New Street, Great Torrington, and the family has expanded somewhat, but largely comprises of the same faces with a few additions. George maintains his job as a carpenter whilst Annie has progressed from school to be part of the gloving trade, much like her elder sister from the last survey. George has also moved on from school and is a paper seller. Brothers and sisters Mary, Gertrude, Lily, William and Bessie are all of school age, whilst Nellie and Samuel are infants. John Weeks now holds down employment as a ‘navvy’.

Newspaper articles from the time show that John lived a troubled life and was often in the gaze of the authorities.

On 13th January 1903, The Western Times reports that John Weeks was brought before the Borough Justices with a charge of drunk and disorderly.

He was fined five shillings and costs for his misdemeanour. This would not be his

last case in front of a judge.

In September 1909 John would again have a brush with the law. The Western Times’ column highlights the case where he is accused of stealing 40lbs of wheat from his grandfather’s shed, which was in a field adjacent to Calf Street. His grandfather, William Passmore, had reported the incident to the Police and the wheat was duly recovered by the end of the day, in the possession of John Weeks. He pleaded guilty and a fine of £1 was meted out.

John continues his trade as a general labourer. At the outset of war John, who is living at 79 Well Street at this point, enlisted into the Devonshire Regiment and was posted with the 2nd Battalion. His enlistment place was Exeter.

He held the Service Number 11205.

John Weeks will have seen action at the Battle of Neuve Chapelle. This followed a wretched string of operations over the winter months leading into 1915. With the growing number of British forces now arriving in the region, this would be the first assault solely involving their forces.

Although the 2nd Devons were part of the initial fighting as the offensive was launched on 10th March, which saw positive forward gains, the fighting soon became bogged down. March 12th saw a formidable German counter-attack, although the Devons would play no part in its fending off, as they were being held in reserve at the time. Despite their position in reserve, they were subjected to heavy bombardment that resulted in a high casualty toll. Although the beleaguered 2nd Devons were pushed

forward to help recommence the attack, toward the late afternoon this would eventually be called off.

In the aftermath there were mixed outcomes. On the one hand, the battle could be deemed a success insofar as a reasonable amount of land was captured, including Neuve Chapelle.

However, casualties were undeniably high.

John Weeks was killed on March 12th.

Specific details into his death are scant.

Indeed, it would appear that there is a degree of misinformation amongst the information released in the local papers.

A number of those that reported John’s death are consistent, by reporting that he was killed at Neuve Chapelle and died from wounds that were inflicted

"Indeed, it would appear that there is a degree of misinformation amongst the information released in the local papers. A number of those that reported John’s death are consistent, by reporting that he was killed at Neuve Chapelle and died from wounds that were inflicted on the same day." on the same day. However, it is also reported that he was attached to the 22nd Ambulance Field Corps. The fact that a number of papers report this is not in itself conclusive, as they would have received the same information from the same source. However, this is in stark contrast with official records assigning him to the 2nd Devons. At the time, the 22nd Ambulance Field Corps were embedded with 7th Division who also fought at Neuve Chapelle, so it is feasible that this may have been the case. Again, poor record keeping and miscommunication has caused some confusion.

John’s headstone can be found at the Estaires Communal Cemetery in the Nord region. He was unmarried and had no children.

Michael Newcombe

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Cavaliers’ Column Chapter 5

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ith all the ‘cummings’ and goings of the past few weeks we are still trying to formulate a plan for getting back on site to restart our Mayflower project. We hope to begin mid/late June and cleaning stations, hand sanitizer equipment and masks are all sourced ready for the off.

You might have picked up from social media that we had an unwanted visitor or two on the site. One thought it clever to climb the security fencing and act the fool on the deck. We are well covered with security cameras, and have footage and a name which we might be following up with the authorities. We take these infringements very seriously. Our other uninvited guest helped himself to the contents of our donation box by forcibly removing the padlock. Fortunately, the contents are collected on an almost daily basis so assume that very little was stolen, however it still hurts. We must thank one supporter from Bath who very kindly sent us a donation of £10 to help offset any loss, for which we are very grateful. There are some lovely people out there!

It’s not all doom and gloom though, and there is some great news also in that The Bohemians Queen tribute act has been rescheduled for 15th May 2021, and tickets for the new date are once again available online. Likewise, our Bonfire tickets are once again available through our website and through Duffy’s Home Hardware in the Square, and the ‘Early Bird’ offer for reduced prices has been extended. We know the event is still 14 months away (28th August 2021) but it will soon come, so get your tickets early!

We have had some excellent support for our Pumpkin Competition with over 40 plants sold. This is always a highly contested competition, particularly amongst The Cavalier participants, and I assume the ‘Pumpkin Police’ will be doing the rounds to ensure no skulduggery and cheating. I understand that the plants thrive on beer slops, which is a bit unfortunate considering there aren’t any beer slops to be had at the moment. Ah well!

On that note we were sorry to hear that Bev and Neil have made the difficult decision to retire from The Black Horse Inn after a number of years. They have, along with all the other established watering holes in Great Torrington, been tremendous supporters of the Cavaliers and have raised thousands of pounds for our various events and projects. We wish them well in their new adventures, with a tear in our eyes.

Please visit our website www.torrington-cavaliers.co.uk to keep updated on events.

‘All for one and one for all.’

Ace

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Cavaliers Pumpkin Competition 2020

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big thank you to everyone who has purchased a pumpkin plant for the Cavaliers’ competition. At the time of writing, 46 plants have been sold.

As I wrote last month we plan to have the weighin on Sunday 1st November 2020, if the virus has settled down.

Roger and Sally, hosts at the Torrington Arms, have kindly agreed for us to hold it there, so watch this space and keep your fingers crossed.

I understand some of the contestants think they are expert pumpkin growers, but I think Dr Google has had a say in that, so don’t be put off by stories you may hear, everyone has an equal chance!

I will share with you a bit of advice I was given: 1. Feed your plant with a high balanced potash liquid fertilizer.

2. Remove all but one or two pumpkins per plant for the largest fruits.

The rest is up to you.

Good luck!

Dick Matthews

The Trumbles of Torrington Commons Part 3

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ig Barry was a lovely man who had worked on the Commons for a very long time. He had learned all about the trees and the animals who lived everywhere on every bit of ground that he covered on his busy days. He knew the Trumbles and that they lived in the Thinking Tree. He always made sure that they could easily get to their home by cutting back all the nettles and brambles that might make it difficult to get in.

Barry Ranger knew all the little Trumbles and had particularly helped Tommy when he was a young Vole learning about surviving on the Commons.

It was Big Barry who saw Tommy first! “What on earth are you doing up that tree Tommy? If you fall you will really hurt yourself. Please stay where you are I’m coming!

I’m coming!”.

But as soon as Big Barry got to the stream he nearly fell in with surprise! “Hello!

Hello! Hello!” said all the Trumble children. “Pleeease Big Barry! Can you help Uncle Bert?”

Uncle Bert was moaning and groaning and Big Barry could tell he wasn’t very well, so he had to help him very quickly. Big Barry got into his tractor and got as close to where Bert was as he could. He then called all the little Trumbles to help. He asked them to get the end of the rope so he could tie it on to his tractor. Then he would slowly drive forward and the little Trumbles could try and and pull Bert out.

“Come on down Tommy, I need your help” he said. Then Barry started to move forward and Bert moaned again. “It's OK Bert!” said Tommy. “We are going to get you out!”

All the Trumbles loved working together and soon they were all trying as hard as they could to get Bert free. Barry shouted “Ready everybody! Here we go!” and they all pulled with all their strength and suddenly there was a loud sucking noise. Slluurrpp! Then Bert came up to his feet and all the little Trumbles went flying backwards and got very wet bottoms! Daddy Tommy held on to Bert and managed to get him on to the grass where they both collapsed in a heap.

Everyone cheered and breathed a very big sigh of relief. Big Barry untied the rope and got off his tractor to go and see if everyone was OK. Everyone was fine including Bert who started playing around with his little nephew and nieces. Big Barry said good bye and they all waved as he drove off. They all loved Big Barry.

They all set off jumping into Uncle Bert’s arms and climbed into their thinking tree where Mummy was waiting with some big mugs of warm chocolate for everyone!

By Gerry Duffy

Treasurer Needed!

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e are on the lookout for a new Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee Treasurer! If you would like to join us and help keep this important tradition alive in Great Torrington, then we would love to hear from you.

Contact pauline-baker3@hotmail. co.uk if you are interested.

Commons Trumble Character Drawing Competition!

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he Commons Conservators have organised a drawing competition for children who are asked to take inspiration from the Trumbles story by Gerry Duffy, you've now been able to read all instalments! Prizes will be awarded for the best pictures/drawings overall with 1st, 2nd and 3rd places and there will be a 4th prize for the best effort.

Entrants are asked to send in character drawings either on their own or in a scene from the story.

Please email entries to competitions@torringtoncommons.org by 15th August 2020.

We will feature winners in the October issue.

Now running virtual groups & open to new members.

For more info please contact Lisa 07515 256 965 19

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

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

We look forward to seeing you!

RHS Rosemoor Reopens! Celebrating 30 years of Garden Inspiration

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he Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Garden Rosemoor is this year celebrating its 30th anniversary as an RHS Garden open to the public.

A horticultural haven, Rosemoor was once a private garden owned by Lady Anne Berry with plants collected from her travels around the world. She then gifted her eight acres of garden, together with around 30 acres of pastureland, to the RHS in 1988 and following two years of development including the creation of the Formal Garden and construction of the Welcome building – it was opened to visitors on 1 June 1990. Over subsequent years and subsequent land purchases, the garden has become a 65 acre gem, renowned for its exceptional plant combinations and design, while

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retaining its regional identity and links to its heritage.

It is now home to amazing National Plant Collections, such as Cornus (common name Dogwoods), Ilex (ivies), the Rosewarne Daffodil Collection, grasses and a collection of Iris. In addition it has the largest rose gardens in the South West, with over 2000 plants across around 200 different varieties, and the iconic Hot Garden with its vibrant colours throughout the summer.

For the first time in 30 years, the Plant Centre has also had a refresh, with a bright new layout and more accessible displays. The staff are very well placed to offer advice for gardeners and supply a great range of plants, tools and accessories.

So what does the future hold for

Rosemoor? A great deal of work has already been taking place to renovate the historic Rolle Canal and lime kilns.

These limekilns provided raw materials for the pottery industry in Bideford, which in turn supplied crockery that travelled on the Mayflower on its journey to America. Over the next couple of years the towpath will be reinstated and new footpaths linking areas of interest, such as the Learning Centre, Lake and the limekilns will be opened to the public.

A Garden Party Weekend planned to celebrate the anniversary has been postponed and will hopefully now take place on 8 & 9 August in combination with the Local Produce Show, in the hope is that everyone will be able to join in the celebrations. For more information rhs.org.uk/Rosemoor.

Visitor changes due to Covid-19. * Strictly limited capacity of 200 per time slot with five slots per day * Online booking only for all visitors – both members and non-members * New entrance (by the Garden Room) and exit via normal route * No catering facilities open (at the moment) * Extra cleaning and hand sanitization * Play areas and enclosed spaces closed such as the Alpine houses

Notable Buildings in Torrington Part One

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he square and the roads leading into it are a conservation area, and there are many Grade II listed buildings worthy of notice.

The Black Horse Inn is believed to date from the 15th century, but its frontage was rebuilt in 1681. There is a stud-and-panel screen in the passageway. This inn was said to be the headquarters, at different times during the Civil War, of both Lord Hopton, Commander in Chief of the Royalists who were trying to defend the town, and Sir Thomas Fairfax who led the victorious Parliamentarian army.

At 7 Fore Street is the Globe Inn, formerly a hotel. The present building dates from 1830 with a three storey front and very tall first floor windows with round-headed arched recesses, which used to have an iron balcony in front of them. During the 19th century all coaches travelling between Plymouth and Barnstaple, Exeter and Bideford called there. It has been a fine building, with its sweeping staircase and ballroom with a sprung floor upstairs, but it needs a lot of money spent on it to bring it back to its former glory.

Next door to the Globe is the Plough Arts Centre, a red-brick neo-Georgian building of 1913. It is thought that the original building may have been the town house of a wealthy merchant or, possibly, a building with some municipal purpose and the site has always belonged to the town. In around 1750 the building became the Plough Inn and it remained as a public house until 1910, by which time it was in a shocking

state of repair. In 1912 the inn, with its many stables and outhouses, was demolished and a drill hall for the use of the Territorials and Yeomanry was built on the site and completed in 1914. A group of people who wanted to set up a theatre bought the lease of the building from the Town Council in 1974, and the arts centre was opened in 1975.

Just along from the Plough is Potacre Street and number 18, Corner House, was built by John Warren Glubb (c1760s-1804), a banker and lawyer.

Six generations of his family lived in or near Torrington for two centuries and were very active in the life of the town and district as benefactors, mayors, vicars and Town Clerk. William Frederick Glubb was the last of the family to live in Corner House and he died there in 1901.

In the 1930s Corner House was a small private school called St George's.

The author Rosemary Sutcliff was a pupil there, when she lived near Torrington, and writes about the school in her book 'Blue Remembered Hills'.

Doctors John and Gwen Searle, he a GP, she an optician, lived and worked from Corner House for over half a century. After they both died and the house was sold, the new owners sold off part of the back garden and, in 2009, a row of houses was built behind the property's high wall. Apparently, the builders were unaware the wall was listed and couldn't be demolished! It must be very dark and gloomy in the ground floor rooms.

Moira Brewer

Covid-19 Lockdown Life Remembered Project @ The Plough Arts Centre

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he Plough Arts Centre has launched an exciting Community Photographic Project to record the Covid-19 pandemic, and how it has brought huge change to the daily lives of individuals and communities across North Devon.

The ‘Lockdown Life Remembered Project’ welcomes your photographs about adapting to Lockdown Life and what it means to you. This could include images of key workers; support and care in the community; daily exercise; daily life such as shopping for food or medical supplies and cooking; transport and getting around; creative responses such as producing art work, writing or making music; places close to your home you have explored and discovered; working from home and home schooling; entertainment and light relief.

With support from Torrington Town Hall, a selection of photographs submitted, together with descriptive short texts, will be collated and brought together into a slideshow to be screened at the Town Hall from the end of July.

To take part and contribute your Lockdown Life photos, please go to www.theploughartscentre.org.uk/ and follow the link on the home page. You will find further details about the project, including the terms and conditions for your contribution. Deadline 5pm July 10th.

Please also check The Plough’s Facebook page for announcements and updates about the project.

The Plough Arts Centre

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Cannot Give Up Yet ( to the tune of ‘I Just Haven’t Met You Yet, Michael Buble) We weren’t surprised It was really clear That we would all need to play our part and obey the law The PM he said We MUST Stay at Home To save many Lives And Protect the NHS

When lockdown is over, then we'll give so much more than we get We just cannot give up yet!

I miss my friends Most of the time But it’s not forever We’ll win this war And we’ll be reunited

On the twenty-third of March, schools were closed People stockpiled toilet rolls Prepared, for every eventuality

And I know that it will be so amazing And the experience is going to change me And now I can see, less cake is a possibility

And I know someday that it'll all work out We'll be together and allowed to live our lives When lockdown is over, then we'll give so much more than we get We just cannot give up yet!

Mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm We all have to wait We'll never give up Our life will be normal When the virus is up We order the shop For neighbours that can’t Deliver the groceries, like the Hovis Ad

Mmm… And Thursday I know that we’ll all turn out And we’ll clap, to give our thanks When lockdown is over, I’ll give more than I get Than I get, than I get, than I get Oh, you know it will all work out We'll be together and allowed to live our lives When lockdown is over, then we'll give so much more than we get We just cannot give up yet!

We just cannot give up yet And I know that it will be so amazing When lockdown is over We’ll see our grandparents and friends I’ll give so much more than I get again daily And appreciate how wonderful life can be I say stay, stay, stay, stay, stay safe We just cannot give up yet!

Mmm… And someday I know that it'll all work out Stay, stay, stay, stay safe We just cannot give up yet!

We'll be together and allowed to live our Lucy Beer, Year 7 lives

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How Long Must We Wait?

Preposterous thoughts they were.

Something to pass the time I said.

Senseless- that’s how I felt; How long must we wait?

Playful mist coated the streetsEvery cry, laughter, shout, gone…

Now, deadly echoing silence.

How long must we wait?

A white ball, aflame in the sky; Blazing to everything below, But no jubilance is exposed.

How long must we wait?

A Kaleidoscope of perplexed thoughts, Our dreams becoming forgotten, Voices, souls condemned to boredom.

How long must we wait?

How long must we wait?

Perhaps no one knows, or they do.

We wait, mindlessly, we wait.

Is that the only thing we can do?

But yet, we must not wait fruitless, As we shall sustain our dreams, Even with the raging nightmare.

No matter how long we must waitWe will come out stronger.

Molly Hooper, Year 11

Dom

Merton 01805 603924.

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This is the Church Sunday service at 11.50amSt Michael's Church Said Mass @ Chulmleigh Town Hall 9-11am The Sacrament Lyrics Lockdown over a mile but with plenty to look at fish flavour) are an ideal food to putininour actions; it feels like we've been trapped place where the Rolle Canal 1pm cakes,and produce, draw is prizes appreciated 10.30am in St James Chapel discuss likely to take a the feeding station but please never We had over 150 entries for A nation clouded in ambiguity and own boxRock Anthems 8pm @ The was'Hitchcock' raised up(12A) about3pm 43 feet Film @ The Major Walker MCofCeremony @donation War Music Gaga: couple hours.

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Jamesplace Chapel volunteer going to garden, the hedgehog in a high pupils. be publishing ALL High Bickington Cinema Monday head weir I8th atwill Rosemoor.

Gig 'Zion Train' 8pm @ The Plough An aloof population ignoring restrictions sun box is beaming down at me bottle promote and maintain features of sided with a hot water the entries inAGM a book once we Historical Society & Talks 'Beam Music Coopelives Boyes &momentary Simpson 8pm @ Many people will have seen Risking for happiness like itsinpersuading mecover to getwith up,the the Rolle Canal.

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And most importantly do 01271 816989 or 07964 522 359 again? information boards have been installed Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough TheNHS Plough AnniRamblers Nicholls Hedgehog Awareness Week is on its Torridge Chelseyafternoon Stannettwalk Fuller, Year 10 to 'Hitchcock' describe the saltmarsh habitat by Ally or Rival?

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Wednesday 10th Bickington Film From 'I Give it a Year' (15) 7pm The of an improvesCommunity our spikyCentre friends 07884 486 509 the point of@view of Said theMass lay-out and had shown greed and selfishness, in Mini StItunderstanding Michael's Church 8.30am Mover Dance Session for under 5's Plough Please look out for events in Army of Blue will be up and about again. workings the inclined plane boat the lift 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington Community old lady who has to stay in insupermarket St James of Chapel hauls and not obeying It’sCoronavirus been an extremely tough look what you have done your area during Hedgehog than wasW.Ipreviously theHall case.

The Centre Torrington @ Methodist 7pm hospital while husband has th th Monday 22nd law. winter for you them.

The enough sun. to 11 May. Awareness Week 5her Coronavirus have had upper basin of the canal at the top of Film 'I Wish' (PG) 8pm @ The Plough Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5's It had shown triumph and selflessness, changeable to stay at home. and wet weather We are coming to get you the incline has been cleared of scrub Tuesday 16th 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington in the hospitals, wherethe heroes areofheld has made itarmy difficult for many of With our of blue. sufficiently to enable outline its Pets As Therapy Thursday 11th for You' Social group for the Centre in awe. to be clearly seen, and the way 'Hearing If I cannot breatheisunderwater. them to find food hibernate properly Community done tooormuch damage Pets As Therapy hardYou’ve of hearing.

Every 3rd Tues 2pm @ Stbanks Michael's Church Said Mass Comedy Alistair McGowan a8pm @ The over the past months so many are now It had shown pain and loss, loss of family How can I breathe alone? the railway subsequently cut through that hard to manage. national charity founded TheYou’re Bickfordnot Centre call 01271 373236 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by Plough weak and need help.

If you know that and no goodbye to the feeble.

If I cannot hear the birds, the northern destroying the top of Youth Highthe Bickington Community Walsingham cellend, in vicarage WeClub will see last of you in 1983.

It isPete unique in Trio Gallery Gig The Canter you had a resident hedgehog in your Itthe hadincline. shown recovery and @ perseverance, How can I sing my favourite song?

Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm The now Centre This canal basin for 11+ @ 5-7pm that it @ provides therapeutic We wish you all the luck of survival 8.18pm The Plough area last year please don’t forget to put asupports greener an planet, yet sicker people. of Badminton If you are not with me, Club 7pm Juniors 8pm Plough increasing population visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing Because …. a bowl of water and some food out for Tuesday Bickington Centre Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & Thesplit us(a Adults ItEarly had bought us together and can Ihomes, live?

Purple Orchid and Twayblade andHow care special needs 23rd We@are coming Community for you them, placing it inside a feeding station Youth pairs competition @ Torrington Beast 2pm @ The Ploughorchid) green flowered which, Cribbage apart, it was a blessing and a curse.

If Club my and heart broke, schools a isvariety other venues for 11+ 5-7pmof@High With our army Film 'Cloud (15)a7pm @ The Arms 8pm It was an Atlas' ally and rival.

Bickington Community Centre How can I see how broken you are?

Of BLUE. @ The Plough note early start for long film Club 7pm Juniors William Bird, Year 9Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm Holly8pm Sullivan, Year 7 YearBadminton 7 Plough note early start Harry for longPledger, film Adults @ High Bickington Community CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Centre

Hickfords Property Services Wednesday 17th Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon

St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Wednesday 24th ee eJames inFrSt stimates Chapel St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am & friendly ad Short Tennis vice HNC @ High Bickington in St James Chapel , NVQ and Institu Centre 4.30-5.30pmProviding for 5+ quality but WCommunity Short Tennis @ Highaffordable Bickington ood Prese te of rving & Legion 3rd Weds of every Royal British Damp -Pro Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+ ofing accountancy and taxation services. month @ GT Conservative Club qualifi7pm Film 'Fire in the Blood' (PG) 8pm @ The ed Film 'No' 8pm @ The Plough Plough Atherington Acorns, fun, friendly group www.pgdaccountants.com Gallery Gig 'Judith Christie & Diane for parents & children aged 0-5 25th Hickford 623376 Calvert Contact 8.15pmColin @ The Plough C.S.R.T—Tel 01805 Tel: 01271 Thursday 268082 Mob: 07810 448 618 9.30am-11am @ Atherington Pavilion St Michael's Church Said Mass Mob: 07976 936 465 Email: hickford208@aol.com every Wednesday term time.

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Residents Encouraged to “Shop Local” as Town Centres Reopen Torrington RFC

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ouncillors and Officers from Torridge District Council and Town Councils worked hard behind the scenes to help facilitate the safe reopening of Town Centres across the District, which took place on Monday 15th June.

Business owners and trade organisations were also a key part of this process.

All businesses wishing to reopen were required by central government to risk assess their operations and ensure that social distancing and other safety recommendations are implemented. Only businesses that have completed this process can reopen, providing a level of assurance to shoppers that public safety is being taken very seriously by every high street operator.

The updated guidance takes into account the best practice demonstrated by the many retailers, which were previously allowed to remain open, and successfully applied social distancing measures in their stores. Measures that shops have been required to consider include: * placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance and commitment to safety measures * storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor * placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas * frequent cleaning of objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, including self-checkouts, trolleys, coffee machines and betting terminals, for example To cement this approach to safety Town Councils have agreed temporary “Keep Left” and “Keep your Distance” policies they are asking people to support and follow. The same signage in all towns will advise people to keep to the left on any pavements or walkways, while remaining at a suitable distance from each other, currently advised as two metres. Some areas, such as the long bridge into Bideford, will advise people to keep on the left or right side of a bridge or road depending on whether they are entering or leaving, effectively encouraging one way travel on some sections of pavement. Some parking bays may also be temporarily taken out of use to prevent pinch points and improve the safety of pedestrian corridors.

Councillor Ken James – Leader of Torridge District Council said: “We have been very fortunate in Torridge to have seen only very low levels of infection from the virus and one of our main priorities is to continue to shield our vulnerable residents. But now it’s also important that with safeguards in place, we take the next steps towards restoring people’s livelihoods, and restarting our economy. I hope that people will do everything they can to get behind and support local businesses with a “shop-local” approach to their spending. These businesses are vital to our economy and support many local jobs and families and it’s important that we help aid their recovery from this very difficult period.

While some of the temporary pedestrian measures may seem unfamiliar at first, they are there to make the whole experience as safe as possible, and I am hopeful people will quickly get used to them, while they remain necessary.”

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A

nd, so it continues. I hope this finds everybody well and coping with the current conditions?

At time of writing no information has been issued by either The Government or RFU as to when grassroots rugby can start playing again, but there has been outline guidance on training. This is very much non-contact and only in small groups. I’m sure the squad is itching to get back together and be an integrated unit once more.

Off the pitch the club is ticking over.

We should have had our AGM by now, but obviously this can’t happen. Until it can it was agreed by the Committee that all current post holders would continue until such time as the AGM could be held in the correct manner.

When this will be? Who knows?

Hopefully soon.

In the meantime, STAY SAFE! Respect, Discipline, Enjoyment, Sportsmanship & Teamwork C’mon Torrie!

Mark Waterson

Stars

I’m sure many of you are fascinated by stars.

Those little sparks of light which light up our sky at night when clouds are not around.

Just by looking at them we feel touched, touched by something we can’t properly put into words. We can just stand still, gazing, in silence.

Gradually we feel warmed up by a sense of wonder that slowly diffuses inside of us.

Amazed by the absolute beauty we see up there and of which we are a part of, we feel generously and fondly embraced by the glimmer coming from above.

But there is more.

Science tells us that everything in nature is made of basic elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen… and that these are the elements even stars are made of, as incredible as it may seem!

We, as part of nature, share more than we think we do with what is around us and stars are no exception.

This can come as a revelation but it has to become a notion to live with. It could support us when we are feeling low, when we are going through a difficult time and feel fragile, closed up, disconnected from everyone and everything, lonely.

Now we know that the enchanting light of stars is the same light that shines at the centre of our being, their beauty is our beauty, we are as precious as they are.

We are so much more than we think we are.

Not to forget!

I wish you wellness May we all walk in beauty Valeria

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Grosvenor Church’s New Way

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hese are certainly strange times we are living in. As a nation we have a glorious history of adapting and overcoming when faced with adversity and the reaction has been beautiful to watch. Our wonderful community has rallied around to help the isolated, whilst individuals and families have changed their habits for the greater good. The community joined together on doorsteps every Thursday to cheer frontline workers.

Churches up and down the country have also been faced with the challenge of adapting and overcoming, as they were rightly instructed to cease meeting together to worship. During this time at Grosvenor Church we have been reminded of how unimportant the building where Christians meet actually is. The Bible describes how the church is made up of a body of people that love God, and it’s actually nothing to do with the collection of bricks and ornate decorations. No matter how precious these places feel to us, it’s all about the community of people!

Thanks to technology, we have been able to remain connected via our Sunday services broadcast on Facebook, and with the discovery of ‘Zoom’ our church family groups have continued to meet online every week. We have also added online Bible studies, ‘Discovering Christianity’ courses and the odd quiz, whilst adapting our children and youth ministries to try and keep everyone connected during lockdown.

We are all looking forward to getting back together in person, but there is also a growing sense that we don’t want

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Fleur’s Gardening Forum - All About Pumpkins

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noticed in the June Crier that the Torrington Cavaliers are organising a pumpkin growing competition, so I thought I would give you a few tips on how to achieve that prize-winner, although perhaps not one that requires a fork lift truck to move it! But first, a short history of the pumpkin.

The name ‘pumpkin’ appeared in our vocabulary during the 17th Century and is derived from the Greek word for melon, ‘pepon’ or ‘cooked by the sun’. ‘Squash’ is derived from the North American Indian word askutasquash which means eaten raw or uncooked. It follows that squashes, of which the pumpkin is a member, originate from the Americas and are believed to have been cultivated for at least 5,000 years.

Many varieties were brought to Europe soon after the discovery of the New World in the 16th Century, where they were not only eaten but the seeds were pounded into oatmeal and applied to the face to bleach freckles and other blemishes.

During the 17th Century pumpkins were often mashed to bulk up bread, or boiled and buttered.

So, how do you grow that prize-winner? Pumpkins love a rich soil in a sunny position, especially during autumn as the fruits ripen, and need plenty of space.

In fact, one of the best places to grow a pumpkin is on top of your compost heap because the heat within aids growth and protects from autumnal frosts. However, if you can’t manage that, make sure you incorporate into the planting site lots of wellrotted compost. Feed and water your plant regularly (Tomorite is excellent).

When your pumpkins have reached a reasonable size carefully place them on to a board, sacking or thick straw. This keeps them off the earth and aids ripening.

You may also need to trim back any foliage that overshadows the pumpkin.

Harvest your pumpkins during early autumn once the foliage has died back and before sharp frosts occur. Leave them outside in a sunny spot or a greenhouse for about 14 days as this helps harden the skin and dries the stem. Afterwards, store pumpkins in a cool, dry place – they will keep all winter. Good luck!

Fleur things to go back to ‘normal’. Maybe you are feeling the same? For many, the change of pace of the past few months has been welcome, ’normal’ doesn’t seem too attractive anymore.

One great thing about doing church online is that some who don’t normally attend were able to check us out from a safe distance. Some became Christians through the process, and for them life will never be ‘normal’ again. I want to invite

you, as you consider your new ‘normal’, to check out one of our online services from the comfort of your sofa. It’s even easier than slipping in at the back of church! Just search for our Grosvenor Church Torrington Facebook page and join us on a Sunday online at 10:30am.

If you want a life of purpose, peace and fulfilment invite in Jesus. I promise you, life will never be ‘normal’ again! Tim (07798 670 754).

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1st Torrington Scout Group

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espite the lockdown, our Scout section is still meeting up via video call. These meetings have included debating, scavenger hunts, Pictionary, catchphrase, quizzes and so much more. Members of our group have also taken part in weekly challenges and we have even been on a virtual Scout camp, complete with den building and campfire songs. The whole Scout section took part in a ‘hike to the moon’ where between us all we walked over 240,000 miles and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Children in Need. An amazing effort, well done to all involved.

Our Cubs have been finishing certain elements of their badges whilst at home. Tyler has been making crystals as part of a science badge, compiling a community map as part of a world badge showing where local amenities are. When the sun was shining, an attempt at making a water rocket was great fun; the lemonade bottle rocket went a super distance. Alex has been cycling in his spare time, and Farran completed a litter pick in Bideford park. He collected yoghurt pots, sweet wrappers, drinks bottles, plastic film from food trays, broken sunglasses and a range of plastic bags - a carrier bag full. Charlie has been learning to ride and care for his horse. Well done Cubs.

If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Cubs aged 8-10 or Scouts aged 10-14 or if you feel you may be interested in helping out in anyway please contact Jordon on email Jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Watch Out for Coronavirus ‘Test & Trace’ Scam

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evon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service is warning residents to be aware of scammers looking to exploit the new NHS Test and Trace service.

The government system, which launched last week, is designed to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) by quickly testing people with symptoms and either phoning, texting or emailing whoever they have had close contact with to tell them to isolate for 14 days.

There are concerns that some people, particularly the vulnerable or elderly, could be susceptible to fake calls or messages from criminals looking to get access to personal information or trick them into handing over money.

Contact tracers WILL: • call you from 0300 013 5000 • send you text messages from ‘NHS’ • ask you to sign into the NHS test and trace contact-tracing website • ask for your full name and date of birth to confirm your identity, and postcode to offer support while self-isolating • ask about the coronavirus symptoms you have been experiencing • ask you to provide the name, telephone number and/or email address of anyone you have had close contact with in the 2 days prior to your symptoms starting • ask if anyone you have been in contact with is under 18 or lives outside of England Contact tracers WILL NEVER: • ask you to dial a premium rate number to speak to them (for example, those starting 09 or 087) • ask you to make any form of payment or purchase a product of any kind • ask for any details about your bank account • ask for your social media identities or login details, or those of your contacts • ask you for any passwords or PINs, or ask you to set up any passwords or PINs over the phone • disclose any of your personal or medical information to your contacts • provide medical advice on the treatment of any potential coronavirus symptoms • ask you to download any software to your PC or ask you to hand over control of your PC, smartphone or tablet to anyone else • ask you to access any website that does not belong to the government or NHS If you see or hear anything suspicious, please report it to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or via the webform on their website.

If you think you’ve been scammed, please contact the Police on 101.

Government information about the service can be found on the NHS Test and Trace website, provided by the Department of Health and Social Care.

More information on scams, rogue traders and doorstep crime is available on the Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards website.

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Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator Fully qualified tradesman

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

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

T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

The Crier Prize Crossword The winner of this month’s crossword will win a choice of one service such as a day sit, night sit, walk or pamper with Isabel's Pet Sitting Service, up to the value of £40. Please send completed crossword with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com. The winner of last issue’s prize is Veronica Hooper The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 9th July and the solution and winner will be in the August/September issue.

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My name is Isabel Pinno, I have grown up with animals all my life and have 12 years’ experience in animal care. My passion for animals meant I went straight from school into working at an animal rescue where I stayed for seven years, caring for and rehabilitating animals in need.

There are so many reasons why I love animals; from their beauty to their personalities animals amaze me every day, and no matter what, they can always put a smile on your face.

I know how hard it is to find someone you can trust to care for your animals; this is one of the many reasons I decided to offer a service to look after your pets. I had my own horse and he meant the world to me, and was in my life for 15 years. I sadly lost my boy when I started this job and not a day passes that I don’t miss him, he held me up and made me strong and taught me all I know today, so my tribute to him was to follow my heart and offer a service to care for other people’s animals as well as they do themselves.

It can be hard to know what you want from someone when it comes down to your pets; they are your family and you only want what is best for them. What I offer is a stress-free environment so you relax knowing your pets are being taken care of and getting love, care and fuss in the comfort of their own home.

Please get in touch, I look forward to hearing from you.

Isabel

Covid-19 Avoiding Scams - Help From the Alzheimer’s Society

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s the world faces the unprecedented challenge presented by the Covid-19 virus pandemic, people living with dementia face the greatest threat. Government advice says that men and women in the UK with chronic neurological conditions are at increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus and are asked to stay at home for an extensive period. For the 850,000 people living with dementia, their loved ones and their carers, the situation is causing panic, stress and anxiety.

have a huge impact in helping protect people affected by dementia from falling victim of scams during this period.

Current corona-themed scams include: fraudulent sellers claiming to sell protective face masks that haven’t arrived, paying for tests which do not exist, emails that appear to be from a legitimate company or government department attempting to trick you into clicking on a malicious link and providing sensitive information, and door-knockers using coronavirus as a guise to gain entry to homes and steal money.

Some older people living with dementia may not be familiar with handling emails and surfing the internet, meaning they can be easy targets for scammers. To avoid scams online: "To add to the stress, fraudsters * Check you’re buying from a are exploiting the spread of the real company. You can search for a COVID-19 coronavirus to help company's details on GOV.UK. This will commit various types of fraud and tell you if they're a registered company or not. cyber crime." * Check to see what people have said To add to the stress, fraudsters are about the company. It’s worth looking exploiting the spread of the COVID-19 for reviews on different websites such coronavirus to help commit various types as Which? – don’t rely on reviews the of fraud and cyber crime. For some company has put on its own website. people, Covid-19 may increase their * If you decide to go ahead with the susceptibility to the risk of financial abuse purchase, use a credit card if you have due to being home alone, answering one, as most major credit card providers telephones, being on the internet more insure online purchases. than usual and potentially trusting others * If you get an email from a company with their cash to buy supplies. with a strange email address or one that We are calling on people affected by has never emailed you before asking dementia in the UK – whether you’re you for money/payment unexpectedly, living with dementia, supporting or caring don’t click on links to download anything. for someone living with the condition – to Doing this could infect your computer follow and share Alzheimer’s Society’s with a virus. Make sure your antivirus top tips on avoiding scams. This could software is up to date to give you more

protection.

There is also plenty of COVID-19 information available online from reputable sources, including Alzheimer’s Society, GOV.UK, and the WHO. With people affected by dementia now being isolated in their own homes, they may be more likely to answer their door bell and interact with door to door scammers. To avoid falling victim of a face-to-face scam: * Don’t feel pressured to accept help from a stranger. Never hand-over money, bank details or bank cards to someone you don’t know who is offering to help you. Offers of help for most things should be free of charge, for example dog walking or fetching medication. * If someone offers to do your shopping, ask for a receipt so that you can pay them on their return to cover the cost of the items. * If someone claims to be from a recognised organisation, then don’t be afraid to ask to see proof (e.g. ID card) or check with the organisation itself. * If possible, call a friend or family member to discuss the help you’ve been offered.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Alzheimer’s Society is providing advice and practical tips for people living with dementia and those supporting them – either in the same household or from a distance. Anyone affected by dementia can call their support line on 0333 150 3456.

Angela Rippon, CBE Alzheimer's Society Ambassador

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Blackberry Farm Shop

* Open 7 days a week, & s�ll producing our home cooked food * Please order in advance & use our fully contactless collec�on or delivery service. * Product range: now includes general groceries, household items, toiletries beer, wines & spirits. * Delivery service now reaches out to those who are isolated or wan�ng to stay at home.

For full details & a stock list: Call 01409 261440 • Email: lizzy@lizzyslarder.co.uk or Visit our Facebook page Blackberry Farm Shop Stay Safe everyone. Lizzy’s Larder, Blackberry Farm Shop, Milton Damerel, Holsworthy, EX22 7NP

Gillian Saich 1945-2020

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f you didn’t know Gillian personally, you would have seen her buzzing around in her bright yellow Skoda or rushing around town. Always busy, always willing to help anyone!

Margaret Brown, Gill and I met on Torrington in Bloom; they were the first two people to truly hold out the hand of friendship when I moved to Torrington four years ago.

Gillian was a special friend who I miss every day; we shared laughter, fears and hopes for the future. She filled her days helping others. She would often ring me with an offer of homemade soup or to check I was ok.

Here are some tributes people wanted to share.

“Gillian will be remembered by all those who attended the first Xmas lunch in Torrington for those alone. The preparation took days, all overseen

by Gillian with a little help. She was completely exhausted afterwards but that was Gillian, wanting everything to be perfect and it was!” Margaret Brown The volunteering continued in the council office.

“Gillian initially was our top shredder and then went on to help with other office jobs, always keeping us fed with homemade goodies! It was very clear that Gillian’s life was devoted to serving those around her, but what was extra special was her natural gift of bringing joy and laughter.” Karen, on behalf of Great Torrington Town Council Gill was a wonderful mother to her two boys and a loyal sister.

She adored her boys (as you can see by the photo of her snuggling into her son Toby).

She would willingly drop tools to help Toby, staying weeks at a time to keep his business on the road. Gill loved her sister Cynthia, who was her rock, shared her passion for crafts and loved their dog Izzy.

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However as Andrew Copp says: “Gillian was such a wonderful neighbour to my parents, she did many things for Mum her final days and thereafter did much for my Dad Peter.

She invited me on to a regular quiz team. Gillian liked the competition but also took it in the spirit it was meant, as a social gathering and was pleased to be helping the charity involved. We

looked to her especially for sixties music questions from the time she worked for NME!! It was a pleasure to know her.”

Gillian's work as a reporter for The NME meant she knew many in the music industry: Neil Diamond, Phil Collins, Elton John, Dave Kelly to name but a few and she interviewed Jimmy Hendrix shortly before he died. Her love of the arts spread to a love of The Plough: “Gillian’s help in the marketing department as a volunteer at The Plough was invaluable. Gillian was a livewire

and one of the most conscientious, able and productive volunteers I had the privilege to work with.” Julie Cooke.

“Gillian was a force of nature, bursting with energy, ideas and innovation; her attention to detail and passion for The Plough were heart-warming.” Richard Wolfenden-Brown Then there was her love of languages.

Was there any end to her talents?

“Gillian was a valued member of the Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group for four years; she will be sadly missed by us all. Gillian displayed a keen attitude for getting involved, despite her other many involvements around town. During our two exchange trips, Gillian stayed with Jean-Claude and Marie-Paule Prigent and the memory of her bubbly personality and language skills will no doubt be held in their hearts forever.”

Nick on behalf of TREG Her other passion was gardens.

“Gillian was a great volunteer at Rosemoor and an even better friend to the events team. She was always willing to help out wherever and whenever, particularly with our ‘live’ events. Her baking was legendary and she was generous with her treats. She will be sorely missed.” The team at Rosemoor Gill was also a keen swimmer and supporter of Torrington Pool. As John Hayes says: “Gillian was an early starter (7am), doing proper lengths with a powerful breaststroke.”

Gillian had so many hobbies including - dare I admit it - Coronation Street! She will be gutted not to know the outcome of Geoff and Yasmeen! An extremely intelligent lady all round, she could talk on so many levels. She loved to sit in my kitchen chatting and watching me cook, tasting the odd morsel and waiting for the lemon drizzle to emerge from the oven. I remember her excitement, having spent the day on Lundy, when a pod of dolphins followed the boat home. Plans for the future have been abruptly halted but she did not suffer and the end was so quick.

Up until two hours before, she was having fun all morning with me. Everyone will miss her in this community.

RIP our special friend Gill.

Sue Harrison

Great Torrington Bowling Club (Est.1645)

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arly in the year everything was ready and in place for the Great Torrington Bowling Club to celebrate their 375th year of playing bowls. Along comes Covid-19 and puts a spoke in the wheel and everything had to be cancelled. Even the weather has been unkind by being the warmest, driest May for years, because if it had been wet we may not have minded too much.

One of the things that has been cancelled was a visit by the Presidents of Bowls England, and they were bringing a team of 24 players from all over England to play against us. The other prime matches we have lost out on are matches against; Bowls Devon Presidents team, Devon Patrons team, Gloucester Vice Presidents Association and two special triples matches against seven different clubs from North Devon. These fixtures as well as our normal friendlies, and competitive matches within the county, accumulated to 140 fixtures cancelled.

Next year we are planning to celebrate our anniversary as a plus one, and we have heard that Bowls Devon Presidents, Devon Patrons, and the Gloucester Vice Presidents teams are going to come and play us. We are still hopeful that Bowls England Presidents will accept our invitation to fulfil this year’s commitment next year and also play against us.

Under the current Government and Bowls England guidelines we are opening our green to members only, to allow them restricted access bowling with only three rinks open at a time and pre-booked before playing.

The club looks forward to the next 25 years when we will celebrate 400 years of bowling in Great Torrington.

Alderman Holwill’s Coffee Table

Does anyone know where it is?

I'm trying to track down a coffee table presented to Alderman E.R. Holwill, the Chairman of Torrington Council, in 1946 when the steam locomotive ‘Torrington’ was named at the old station. I attach an image of another one of these tables to show you what it looks like. Yours will, obviously, have the Torrington shield on it. It's not in your Museum or Town Hall, but has anyone seen it? It's 17" inches in diameter. It is possible that it stayed with the Mayor and has passed down to his descendants.

If you are able to help, please contact me on clive.fairchild119@gmail.com.

Many thanks for any help you can give me.

Clive Fairchild Tavistock

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Supply and installation of Wood, Gas & Electric Stoves & Fires throughout Devon & Cornwall The Showroom

Unit 5 Red Post, Bude EX23 9NW 01288 381852 carl@cblstoves.co.uk • www.cblstoves.co.uk

I am a very competent engineer for both oil & solid fuel and I am fully insured.

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

Tel 07500 861 862

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