Torrington Crier July 2023

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.

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Commons News

We are pleased to be able to report that after literally decades of negotiations, we have been able to get the stretch of Rolle Roadbetween the Puffing Billy and the old Creamery in Taddiport - improved. The Highways Section of DCC has carried out this work for us, and I’m sure you can see it is a great improvement. There is still a small section in need of further drainage work, on the part used by SWW, and we are now working on this! The newly upgraded section is now classed as a multi-user track – and it is now explicitly allowed for bicycles to use this section. This does not apply to the section of Rolle Road beyond Taddiport, going towards Orford Mill or indeed, any of the other footpaths on the Commons.

On 2nd June, we were pleased to welcome author Michael Morpurgo and illustrator Yuval Zommer on to the Commons as part of the launch of their new book ‘My Heart was a Tree’. They were accompanied by Richard Wolfenden-Brown from the Plough Arts Centre and some members of the Plough Youth Group. An apple tree was planted in Collingham’s orchard and some poetry was read. All in all, a lovely event. Thank you to Richard for organising it, and providing the tree.

As the hot summer days have now arrived, can we remind people that no fires or barbecues are permitted anywhere on the Commons.

Our team are working very hard to keep the paths and verges clear, always a huge task at this time of year, so if we have missed your favourite spot we will get there – but please drop us a line on Facebook or at clerk@Torringtoncommons.org if you would like to get in touch.

If you would like to read the minutes from our recent AGM, they will be published on our website as soon as they have been agreed.

Mandy Harrison, Chair GTCC

Torrington Football Club Girls’ U15s

Who can believe it is almost a year ago that we were cheering on England’s Lionesses at Wembley as they made history and brought home the Cup at the Euros 2022! Soon we will be cheering them on again at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

If you or a young girl you know loves football and see themselves as a future Jill Scott or Beth Mead, and are in school years 9 or 10 in September, Torrington Football Club Girls U15s would love to hear from you. We are looking for more players for the 23-24 season, if you would like more information, or a sign-up sheet please message Torrington Football Club on Facebook, or ellieleonard318@hotmail. com. You can also come along to the Youth Open Day at Torrington Football Club on Saturday July 8th from 10am (see other article) – to find out more or sign up on the day.

Torrington Football Club Youth Open Day

On Saturday 8th July from 10am there will be a youth open day at Torrington Football Club for the girls’ U15 team and the boys’ U13s.

If you are interested and in either of these age groups, please come along and see us on Saturday 8th Sign-up sheets will be available on the day or contact Torrington Football Club via Facebook or the website for further information.

Members of Exeter Ladies’ team will be providing a training session, there will be food, drink, and fun activities throughout the day, as well as players and coaches on hand to tell you all about playing for Torrington Football Club and give you a tour of the facilities. Please contact Torrington Football Club via Facebook, the website or ellieleonard318@hotmail.com if you want to know more.

JAMES WASTE COLLECTION

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Contact James on 07714 819 415

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Great Torrington Commons

Our car boot sales have been very busy over the last few weeks. Our stall on the Old Bowling Green has also been very busy, we get lots of donations throughout the morning and they replace all the items that we are selling. We are still collecting books, CDs and DVDs to sell, as well as old stamps, foreign coins and now Lego. If you have any of these items, please bring them along on a Sunday morning or call me Andrew Giles on 07956 366 390 and I can collect them from you.

On Saturday July 22nd K9 Focus will be holding a dog show on the Old Bowling Green. At the time of writing this the full details are not available, but it looks like being a great event.

We will also be attending an event at RHS Rosemoor in September, more details about this event are to follow.

The Rangers and their helpers will continue to look after the Commons so that we all can enjoy them. The Conservators are all volunteers and most of us have a daytime job as well, and we are looking for more people to join the team. Please get in touch if you would like any information about being a Conservator or a volunteer.

We have recently introduced some new collection boxes in the town shops. This is where you can donate coins or even notes to help us, there is also a QR code on the label, you can scan this and make a donation online. It doesn’t matter if they are foreign coins either.

Please, consider applying to be a Commons 365 Supporter if you can, the funds will be used to continue our goal of maintaining, improving, and protecting the Commons.

As a Commons supporter you are also able to be a town supporter by using your membership card to get a discount or other benefit when you shop at the participating businesses.

The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per month or a £24 annual donation which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer. You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to

you.

Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple:

Option 1 cut out or photocopy the application form in the Crier and post it to the address on the form. You can pay by standing order or by sending a cheque for £24.

Option 2 visit www.torringtoncommons. org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you can apply online. Here you have the option of paying by PayPal or standing order annually or monthly.

You can also print an application form to post in with a cheque.

Option 3 you can email vicechair@ torringtoncommons.org or phone or text 07956 366 390 and I will get an application form to you.

You can also collect an application form from the Post Office. Some of the shops in town also have application forms.

Andrew Giles, Vice Chair, Commons Conservators

Current 365 Supporters Shops

AHJ Builders 07977 668164

Attic Gems Antiques Fore Street

Boom Tingz Burgerz Potacre Street

Collectability in the High Street

Computer Works 07714 717055

Cornmarket Antiques in the pannier market

Crafty Needles In the Pannier Market

Dafforn and Sons New Street

Dartington Crystal

Duane’s Carvings and Gallery in the Pannier Market

Fine Floral Design in South Street

Fork ‘n’ Feast at 1646 Castle Hill

Hair We Are in South Street

Hogwash Soap castle Street and online

Ian Coote Architecture 07883 067899

Java Gifts Cornmarket Street

Jayne Poole Photography Cornmarket St

Kitch ‘N’ Cupboard in the Pannier Market

Lillian Rose Interiors Well Street

Little Leaf Pregnancy 07714 717055

No. 37 café in South Street

No. 5 Hair and Beauty in South Street

Not Just Travel Gillian Farr on Facebook

Proseprints online and craft fairs

R&S Ware Butchers in South Street

Samantha Hardwick Lifestyle Coach

Second Nature Beauty Studio at No.5

Cornmarket Street

Squires Electrical in the High Street

Steve Gladwin Family Butchers Fore

Street

Tanya’s Beauty Studio Fore Street

The Cabin in South Street

The Puffing Billy

The Whole Jar in the Pannier Market

Torrington Framing

Torrington Golf Club

Torrington Museum Bookshop, High Street

Torrington Refill Shop in South Street

Toy Swap in the Pannier Market

Unique Boutique Cornmarket Street

Whiskers Pet Centre South Street

Xanadu (In-store discount only) South St

Little Nest Cleaning

Cleaning,decluttering & garden

maintenance

Your one stop shop for professional & friendly home help,both inside & out

Call Nicci 07917 108 856

Walk & Talk in Torrington Reaches Second Anniversary

The idea for the Walk and Talk in Torrington group came about after the strict pandemic restrictions were lifted two years ago. We still had to be careful, carried hand sanitiser and face masks with us and obeyed all the guidance. However, meeting outside seemed the safest way of bringing people together again after the isolating months of lockdowns.

With an enthusiastic and friendly group of volunteers, we started our walks on 1st July 2021. From the start they proved popular. As well as locals, we have seen people new to the area come and make friends. This in turn has led to further outings and has helped them to feel part of the community.

Others have come for the light exercise and to explore footpaths around the town.

But I think most of all, everyone has enjoyed the chat, cuppas and cakes! A big thanks to Leanne and her team at Fork ‘n’ Feast for providing us with treats, and cooking our Christmas and summer lunches!

This is a friendly group of people who enjoy a laugh or two, but who also support each other when times are hard.

These are gentle walks of between 40 and 50 minutes. We split into two groups if necessary, offering a shorter walk to cater for various abilities. We walk around the town and its surrounding footpaths, with occasional outings to the Tarka Trail and Commons. We have discovered all sorts of footpaths and vary the walks as much as we can.

We meet every Thursday morning, come rain or shine, outside the library building in Sydney House Car Park. Walks start at 10.30am but please arrive earlier to register. We ask for a £1 donation for the walk and there is a small charge for refreshments.

New walkers are always welcome, so if you’re looking to get out in the fresh air and meet others why not come along?

If you want to have a chat about the group, please contact Kate Cooper at Torrington Library. Just pop in or give her a call on 01805 622107, email Torrington. library@librariesunlimited.org.uk.

Great Torrington Town & Community Hall News & Events

It’s a busy time for the Town Hall, preparing the building for our summer weddings. Planning the big day with the happy couple takes a lot of time, care and attention to detail and we pull out all the stops to get it right. We are very thankful for the help and support of our volunteers on the day itself, who work with the Registrar, greet guests, serve reception drinks and generally make sure everyone is well looked after. It’s a real joy to be part of the celebrations. But, we never have enough volunteers - both for weddings and the various other events we organise - so if you are interested in finding out more please ring Helen on 01805 625662 or email her on admin@ greattorringtontown-hall.org.

Future events

The Trustees are delighted to announce we will be working with Lucy Lowe from EPIC Events and entertainment to run some special community events, starting with a Summer Food and Drink Festival on 15th July from 10am to 3pm. If you are interested in booking a stand, please contact Lucy direct at lucyloweevents@ outlook.com or ring 07518 066 623. We have a series of events planned throughout the year, so watch for information in the Crier and on social media.

Date fixed for Christmas Fayre!

Last year’s Christmas Fayre was such a success - so we are doing it again on Saturday 18th November! Many of last year’s stallholders have already reserved

their spaces so don’t delay, contact Lucy or email the Town Hall now if you would like to book a space.

Valuation Day Tuesday 22nd August 10-3pm

Have you ever wondered what one of your treasured tucked away items might be worth? We are delighted to welcome Lays Auctioneers, whose experts will be happy to look at antique items, fine art, jewellery and watches. It’s free to attend, no appointment necessary - just drop into the Undercroft between 10am and 3pm. For more information their contact details are enquiries@ davidlay.co.uk or ring 01736 361 414 History Alive 29th July

This is an event which we are really looking forward to. The official opening takes place at 10am in the town square and then our wonderful Silver Band will be playing for us outside the Undercroft, where the museum will have a May Fair exhibition. In the afternoon at 2pm Peter Christie will be in the Great Hall to give a lecture. His talks are always fascinating and entertaining. Teas/coffees will be available, and our Trustees will be on hand to show you around. For more information on the History Alive events taking place throughout the town and surrounding areas please contact the Town Council.

Psychic Supper 4th August 7.30pm

We are excited to welcome the esteemed Susan Pengally and the English Psychic Company who are holding a Psychic Supper. Enjoy a delicious two-course meal followed by two private readings. Call 07788 756 773 to book.

Police Surgery – every first Thursday of the month 10.30-11.30am

Just a reminder to pop in if you have any questions or need advice, there is someone on hand to have a chat with.

Are there any events you would like to see at the Town Hall? We welcome your ideas on how you would like to see the building used for our community. Just email us on admin@greattorringtontownhall.org or ring 07546 695 938 ALL EVENTS PROCEEDS ARE USED BY THE TRUST FOR THE UPKEEP OF THE TOWN HALL

Library News

The Summer Reading Challenge 2023 –Ready, Set, Read!

We are looking forward to being overwhelmed by our young members signing up for this year’s challenge. Please see the front cover for more information.

Your library service is FREE, run by the charity Libraries Unlimited. If you are not currently a member, we look forward to signing you up. Why not borrow, rather than buy, books from a library!

We will host events and activities running throughout the holidays, so please check us out on Facebook @TorringtonLibraryDevon. We post on our page regularly, so it is a good place to find out what’s going on or pop into the library and ask the staff.

Walk & Talk - Thursdays 10.30am

Join our regular Walk & Talk every Thursday for a gentle walk followed by a cuppa. New members are most welcome, to join the group please arrive a bit earlier to register in advance of your first walk.

We look forward to seeing you!

Bounce & Rhyme Storytime – Stay & Chat

Tuesdays (term-time only) 10.30-11am. These are happy, lively events. After the singing, the toys are out for babies and toddlers to play. If you ever thought libraries are quiet places, think again! Followed by Baby Self Weigh, Tuesdays 11.30am-4pm

We will continue to offer this facility during the school holidays though we will move availability time to 1- 4.30pm.

One 2 One IT support

If you have a tablet, laptop or smartphone you are struggling with, our volunteer Perry is here to offer support on every other Thursday morning (by appointment only). Please call: 01805 622107 to book.

Please refer to our website: www.librariesunlimited.org.uk for up-to-date information on all our services. For assistance with any queries please contact us by emailing torrington.library@librariesunlimited.org.uk or via our general telephone enquiries line is 0345 155001.

Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092. Librariesunlimited.org.uk

Over 50s Walking Football

My name is Les and alongside Torridgeside AFC we've set up an over 50s walking football group here in Great Torrington. We started indoors at GTS last December, and have now moved out on to the AstroTurf pitch at GTS. We play every Wednesday between 7-8pm and subs are £4 per player.

It's strictly no running, limited physical contact and is open to anyone over 50 years old. We currently have around 10-12 regular players and we'd welcome anyone wanting to have a go. We recently played in a friendly tournament with Braunton Ladies WAFC, and are hoping to build on this and eventually become FA registered. We are totally self-funded.

For more information please contact Les on 07852 724 560.

Parish Church

The Mayor’s Civic Service took place on June 25th in St Michael’s and it was a privilege to welcome the Mayor and councillors together with members of town organisations.

We are delighted that the Church Summer Fête will be held in the garden of the Vicarage, once more, on Saturday July 22nd from 12-4pm. It is hoped that the May Queen and her attendants will be there to open the event. There will be stalls, refreshments, raffle, tombola, books. Bric-a-brac and activities for children, on which you can spend your money! It will also be an opportunity to meet Fr. Steve and his family. Please keep the date free and come and join us. Should the weather be unkind, we will be holding the event inside the Parish Church.

On Saturday August 5th we welcome Timothy Noon, Director of Music at Exeter Cathedral, to play the inaugural organ recital on the newly restored Fr Willis organ at 7.30pm. The restoration was carried out by Lance Foy Organs of Truro. Later in the year, on October 15th, Timothy Noon will be bringing the Cathedral choir to sing Choral Evensong in St Michael’s.

You are always welcome to our regular Parish Communion service at 10am each Sunday morning or to a shorter communion service on Thursday mornings at 10.30am.

Please help our local businesses and 'Think Local' whenever possible.

Think Local editorial is free for advertisers! Please contact Esther Williams on 01805 601964 for more information.

North Devon Auctions… Online!

Are you decluttering and need some extra cash? Or perhaps you would like to buy some quality items without the large price tag, from the comfort of your own home.

Come and try out our auctions!

At North Devon auctions we run our online auctions every six weeks and hold inhouse viewing at our auction house near Stibb Cross. We sell a large selection of antique and general items and have something for everyone!

Registering for our auctions is easy, just a few clicks of a button explained step-bystep on our website (www.northdevonacutions.co.uk), you never know what kind of bargain you might get... or maybe you’ll find a bit of nostalgia that brings back happy memories.

If you wish to sell with us, it’s just as simple. Pop us an email with the photos and we can advise you or schedule one of our staff members to view your items at your property in the local area free of charge, with no obligation to sell with us.

If you have a full/part house that needs clearing, we work with Copps Removals and Storage and have a full waste carriers’ licence, so we can even remove your rubbish. Contact us for a quotation today. 01805 601800.

Need Removals Help?

Are you planning to move this summer? Or maybe you are organising an event?

Copps Removals can help. We provide a UK & European Removals service, car transport, packing service/materials and event/festival transport, plus a lot more!

Our vehicles are Euro 6 so we can access any city in the UK and Europe and also include everything from 3.5t vans to cover small local and tight access moves, to the latest road train for large, long-distance removals and transport.

Maybe you are moving yourself and need some low-cost packaging materials? We have small and large used boxes for sale with the prices ranging from 50p to £1.

If you need affordable storage, we offer self-storage in our 20ft and 10ft insulated containers.

Email sales@coppsremovals.co.uk; call 01805 601122; Gary 07787 587 410.

Unmasking the “I’m Fine” Mask

How often do you respond with a casual “I’m fine” when someone asks you “how are you?”, even when deep down it simply isn’t true. It’s so easy to say but as I know, over the years of working with my clients, most of the time there is a whirlwind of emotions going on inside.

We have been conditioned to suppress and deny our true emotions and the “I’m fine” façade is a convenient mask we put on to protect ourselves from fear, especially fear of judgment, rejection, conflict, appearing weak or burdening others, sadness, disappointment and frustration. One definition of ‘FINE’ is - Feelings, Inside, Never, Expressed.

It does sometimes feel easier to deny our feelings to avoid certain problems, traumatic memories, or deep-seated emotions we struggle to put into words. It can feel overwhelming when we don’t know what to do with our feelings or problems or how to solve them, so we try to ignore them. But the more we ignore these feelings or problems the bigger they become, impacting not only our mental and physical health but also our relationships and overall quality of life.

It is not easy to remove the mask and start looking at the messy stuff beneath the surface, but to feel better we must acknowledge that we are not fine, that we are struggling, hurt, afraid or angry, or that our needs have not been met. Unmet childhood needs have a profound impact on us and if our need for love, validation, security, and acceptance are not adequately met as a child, we carry these unfulfilled longings into adulthood. They often manifest as feelings of unworthiness, low self-esteem, and difficulty in forming and maintaining healthy relationships. Understanding and addressing these unmet needs is essential for our emotional healing and well-being.

Sometimes acknowledging we need support is the first step toward emotional wellbeing. Let go of the belief that seeking help is a sign of weakness, when in fact it is a sign of strength, as it takes strength to confront our emotions and true feelings. If you need support then let’s talk, to see how I may help you explore and express all that has been suppressed in a safe, non-judgmental way, to heal and transform your life so you can say “I am doing well”, “I am good”, “I’m feeling content and at peace” or “I’m feeling optimistic and hopeful”. Let me guide you on a journey of self-discovery helping to identify and reframe the limiting beliefs and patterns that stem from childhood experiences. You can book a call via my website www.samanthahardwick.com or email hello@samanthahardwick.com. Please know that you are not the only one struggling, I have been where you are, and I would love to support you on your own unique journey to reclaim emotional wellbeing.

Samantha Hardwick

Castle Hill Work Hub

Not sure if a co-working hub is for you? Here are some benefits: Flexibility - we have a range of memberships designed to suit your schedule, so you can use the hub as much or as little as you want!

Sense of community - the hub has created a welcoming and friendly community of regular users, all from different fields, allowing you to create personal and business networks.

Low costs - your membership includes all facilities, such as tea and coffee, parking, wifi and more. This is often much cheaper than working from home, especially with the cost of living price rises.

Mental health - working from home can be isolating, so having the option to use a shared office space can have a positive effect on mental health when you feel like you need some company.

Increased productivity - it’s easy to become distracted at home when working, so using a co-working hub can help you to remain focused on your work. Head to castlehillworkhub.co.uk to find out more, or email us at castlehillhub@ torridge.gov.uk

Local Professional Qualified Counsellor

Microsuction

Ear Wax Removal Available in Torrington

We are the only Ear Wax Clinic in Devon that doesn’t charge for a follow up appointment

Call 07367 116 468 or visit our website www.devon-ear-clinic.co.uk

4 Well Street Torrington EX38 8EP

Local Baby & Toddler Groups

Buckland Brewer 'Time Together' Toddler and Baby Group Mondays during term time at Buckland Brewer Methodist Church from 9.30am to 12noon. £1.50 per family. Dave Watson 07484 223 515

Coldridge Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am every Friday (except 1st Friday of the month) £2 per family.

High Bickington playgroup runs on Mondays 9.30-11am at High Bickington Community Centre. Cost: £2 families, £1 for singletons under 6 months.

Petrockstowe Community Church Tea and Tots coffee morning, for mums, dads, grandparents, carers, babies and toddlers together for a drink and a chat. Every Monday 9.15-11am in the school room of the Chapel. Kate Cutter entertains with songs and stories. St Giles in the Wood ‘Cubs in the Wood’ playgroup for 0-4 year olds on Thursdays 9.30-11am at the Parish Hall £2.50.

Torrington Babies and Toddler Group at the Baptist Church, Thursday mornings term time, 9.30-11.30am. £2 per family, includes a cuppa for parents/ carers, healthy snack for the children.

Castle Community Centre Tuesdays

Busy Bees – 9.30-10.15am (babies

6mths-15mths) Caterpillar Club 10.4511.30am (babies 6wks-6mths)

Torrington Children’s Centre, ‘Noah’s Ark’ Fridays 9.15-10.45am, run by Grosvenor Church Tim Gilbert 07798 670 754.

We offer free vehicle collection from Torrington 01805 603081

From Your County Councillor…

After a long wait summer has at last arrived and with it, I am pleased to report, some major road improvement works in Torrington Rural will be taking place. In June, the A386 from the Gribble Inn junction to Little Torrington will be resurfaced. Last year I was able to get Highways to do some temporary pothole patching repairs, and while these did hold throughout the winter, they were always going to be a short-term fix, so it will be good to see this section of the road fully resurfaced. In October there will be another road closure on the A386, this time for Mile Hill, where we will see a major upgrade of the drainage network along the road. At the same time, we will use this closure to patch and repair the surface defects down Mile Hill. The Council did look at doing this for the June closure, but it would have involved having to extend the road closure and adding considerably to the expense of the scheme, so it was decided that logistically it made more sense to do the Mile Hill patching in October. (Any safety defects will, though, be repaired during that time!).

After a lot of improvements to the A3124, improving the A386 has been my next priority so it is good to see these schemes finally coming to fruition. Similarly, also taking in place in June, the B3227 between Stibb Cross and Langtree will see major patching and resurfacing repairs, and in July there will be drainage work upgrades in Frithelstockstone on the A388. There is also a scheme confirmed for this financial year, though exact dates ‘TBC’, for a further resurfacing scheme on the A386 north of Torrington along the Beam Quarry/Loxdown section.

In addition, with the additional Highways funding we received from the Government, I have put forward patching and resurfacing schemes along the B3232 at Calvesford Road and the B3227 at Hatchmoor Road, and outside High Bullen in St Giles in the Wood. While these schemes are still being assessed and can’t yet be guaranteed, if we don’t ask for them, we won’t get them, so I always try to be as proactive as possible in putting forward schemes and suggestions to the Council, so that even if they can’t get approved this financial year, they remain in the mix for the next year and beyond.

On top of all this, the summer months will see Devon County Council’s ‘Dragon Patcher’ out and about on our more

minor road network in Torrington Rural, with over 25 sites committed from Langtree, Buckland Filleigh, Peters Marland, over to St Giles in the Wood, Roborough, Dolton, and through to Ashriegney and Winkleigh. Having looked through the list, Torrington Rural has more sites approved than any other area! Again, I have been as proactive as possible and throughout the year have been giving my local Highways Officer list of roads to look at for Dragon Patching, and will continue to do so.

Away from Highways, this summer will also see a change to one of our local bus service routes, with the 315 bus, operated by Go Devon, changing back into the 5B bus operated by Stagecoach. For those of you online, I have posted about this on my Facebook page but for those who don’t use Facebook, the outgoing operator Go Devon handed their notice into DCC and, as the 315/5B route is financially supported

£2.50 up until November 2024. There are not many forms of transport where it will cost you just £2 to go to Exeter or Barnstaple for the day."

by Devon County Council, the route was retendered and awarded back to Stagecoach.

Initially, we were looking at a much reduced service as, due to extremely low passenger numbers and rising costs, it was proposed to run a peak time only service, which I know was causing a lot of anxiety for regular passengers who were dependent on some of the lesser used services.

I have been working behind the scenes with the DCC Transport Team and, thanks in part to some additional funding for bus services coming through from the Department for Transport, we have been able to secure additional offpeak services which means, while not a complete like-for-like replacement, the new 5B will be very similar in timings and frequency with the old 315. Working with the Transport team we were also able to secure a late night service running from Barnstaple to Torrington, via Bideford, which I know was an important service for a number of shift workers who were dependent upon these services.

Nonetheless, while it is good news that we have been able to keep the 5B bus services going, I cannot stress enough that we must ‘use it or lose it!’ The reason why the off-peak services were originally proposed to be axed was

due to the very low passenger numbers using these services. If we are to keep these buses, or even better improve the bus service with more routes and Sunday services, then we need to see an increase in passenger numbers or else the service will become unviable. Ultimately, neither the Government nor Devon County Council can justify spending hundreds of thousands of pounds of bus grant monies if they are just simply moving near empty buses around the County.

The good news is though that it is still very cheap to use the bus network. The Government has extended the £2 bus fare cap until 31st October this year, and after that it will be £2.50 up until November 2024. There are not many forms of transport where it will cost you just £2 to go to Exeter or Barnstaple for the day.

I know that the bus network isn’t convenient for everyone, especially for those living far away from the bus stops (myself included in this!). But, on the other hand, it would still be cheaper for me to drive to or be dropped off at a local bus stop and catch the bus into Exeter or Barnstaple than it would be to drive directly given the cost of fuel. So, this summer I am looking forward to taking more bus trips than I would normally make.

As ever, there is lots going on both in Torrington Rural and across DCC, but if I wrote about everything I think I’d take up the entire space of the Crier! But I hope to write about some of the more pan-Devon issues next month. As ever though, if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise you can contact me on facebook.com/cllrsaywell, ring 07886 446 560 or email andrew.saywell@devon. gov.uk.

What's on at Torri Youth

For young people aged 10-17

* Photography project

* Torrington in Bloom - Bee Friendly

* Detached Park Games

* Dig the Castle Talk and Tour - 7th July, book your space to be part of the team for the excavation!

* Laser tag trip - 14th July - limited spaces available

* Saturday 22nd July Picnic in the Park, 2-4pm. Family fun session in Calf Street Park, to help raise funds for the community shelter project. Bring a blanket and have a picnic in your park. Youth workers and young people will be organising games, activities and face painting, pop along and see us.

For further information email paula. ftorriyouth@gmail.com.

"The Government has extended the £2 bus fare cap until 31st October this year, and after that it will be

RICHARD HEYWOOD ELECTRICAL

Why Not Join the Ramblers?

Do you like being outdoors, discovering new places, meeting people and preserving the countryside?

If so, have you considered joining the Ramblers? Not only do they play a valuable role in checking and ensuring the maintenance of our footpaths, but they also offer a variety of walks exploring the local area.

I joined the North Devon group of Ramblers almost two years ago and am still finding places and paths that I didn’t know existed! Walks of varying lengths are offered twice a week: the weekday walks tend to be shorter (4-6 miles), while the weekend walks are usually longer (8-12 miles).

You can find out about all the walks on our website: ramblers.org.uk/north-devon, including a brief description of the walk, its grading and details of where to meet.

It does not cost a lot to join, the walks are free, all our walk leaders are volunteers, and we try to car-share or use the bus where possible. If you would like to try it out first, you can join us for three walks before signing up. Once you have joined, you can then walk with other Rambler groups all over the country! Why not give it a go?

Janet Ellis

Weare Giffard Art Group

Every year, we at Weare Giffard Art Group welcome the general public to our Summer Exhibition, which takes place at Weare Giffard Village Hall - this year it will be on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd July.

The hall will be open from 10am to 4pm, and we will all be behind the coffee pot with our usual array of delicious homemade cakes to welcome you.

Most of the art works displayed are for sale at unbelievably reasonable prices and this year, as our joint project, we are all taking part in a large jigsaw of Clovelly made up of different tiles, all painted by our members, plus some lovely independent tiles displaying our beautiful county at its finest.

So do come along because “Us be plaised to zee ee”.

Ploughcappella

Come and sing! You are warmly welcome! Ploughcappella is a community choir that is warm hearted, fun and uplifting.

There is wonderful company, the harmonies are easy to learn and the songs are so beautiful! Alison Whittall is a member of the Natural Voice Network, which is inclusive and accessible for all.

The songs are learnt by ear, the atmosphere is happy, relaxed and informal and yet we make the most sublime sounds.

We perform an eclectic repertoire from pop to gospel, with World music and contemporary songs written by amazing composers and choir leaders of our time.

We meet on a Tuesday evening at the Plough Arts Centre from 7.30-9pm in term time. Enquiries: Box Office 01805 624624; www. theploughartscentre.org.uk/event/ploughcappella-1

Telephone: 01271 858482 or 07766 714503 Email: philipwardtaylor@outlook.com

Why Advertise in The Crier?

Fabulous Freddie calling in with all the latest news from the rescue. Well, June saw our second show of the year at Braunton, which was really busy with glorious weather too! Our thanks go to everyone that came and helped us raise much-needed funds for the rescue - £304.39 in fact. Our next show is in our home town of Torrington, and I am really looking forward to this one as it promises to be really good fun, with lots of stalls and things for the family to do and, of course, Mr Hockings will be there! We are still, however, short of volunteers to help us run the event and so if you could spare an hour or two on the 22nd July then please do email Aunty Lynne at lynne@k9focus.co.uk – I promise it will be fun! Don’t forget that we also have a show the following week at Bideford Panier Market, indoors in case it rains!

Sadly, June saw the lovely Diesel come back to us, and he is now in a foster home until a new forever couch can be found for him. Diesel is a Husky X Malamute, which makes him very handsome but he needs an owner that has experience of the breed and is around most of the time, as he really does not like to be left alone. Do check out our website to see some lovely pictures of him, I am sure he will be in someone’s home soon!

Following my x-rays last month, a few people have been asking for an update, especially as they saw me running around and swimming in the lake on my holiday. Well I am now on full time medication which really helps me, and soon I will be starting the monthly injections. Mum keeps restricting my

exercise as I still love running around and, like many dogs, I am very good at hiding the fact that I am in pain –this is something that so many of us woofs do apparently. Mum, however, knows the signs and says I should share these with everyone, as canine arthritis is the most common cause of chronic pain in dogs and affects four out

endorphins which provide comfort. As the pain got worse I then started biting my legs, as they were really hurting, but I still liked to run around and enjoy my walks but would often then be lame. If you recognise these signs in your dog, then it is definitely time to take a trip to the vet and get some professional advice. Other things to consider, especially if your dog is like myself and getting a little older, is to treat your friend to a new specialist orthopaedic bed which is very firm and supportive. Other things to consider:

* Shorter walks, opting for soft grassy routes rather than hard surfaces

* Swimming is a good way of gentle exercise

* Buying a coat for the colder weather, as cold weather can really exacerbate arthritis and stiffness (I have a really nice one – purple of course!)

* If you have laminated floors try to make them less ‘slippery’ as sliding is certainly not good for dogs with joint problems

of five older dogs.

While it can be prevalent in specific breeds, it can occur in dogs of all shapes and sizes. The first sign I showed, apparently, was that I was constantly licking my legs as licking releases

* Think about a ramp to help get in and out of cars to avoid jumping Adjusting life around arthritis can be something of a learning curve, and I guess it can be quite expensive, especially at the moment when things are difficult financially for many people, however Aunty Lynne says that having a dog is a lifelong commitment and that owners need to ensure that we have the best quality of life, especially in our senior years. I guess I am expensive, but as the advert goes – ‘Because I am Worth It’!

That’s all for this month, hope to see many of you on the 22nd July at Torrington Commons.

Woofs & licks, Freddie

Torrington – a Special Town Part Three - The Leper Strips

Another reminder of Torrington’s ancient past can be seen from the top of Castle Hill: two long thin fields across the river, alongside the village of Taddiport. These two strips, or ‘straps’, are examples of the medieval field system, a method of cultivation which was once standard practice across the country. These two particular strips are what remain of between seven and a dozen fields (reports vary), which were reserved for cultivation by lepers who lived in the village from the fourteenth until the seventeenth century, when leprosy was eradicated from Britain. The Tithe Map of 1838 shows that seven strips were still in use, though the lepers were long gone.

Taddy’ is from the Old English ‘taddige’ which means ‘toad’, and the name of the village may have had some reference to the scaly skin of lepers who lived at the leper hospital of St Mary Magdalen. There are many references to the Chapel or Chantry in the Registers of the Bishops of Exeter, but it is not until 1418 that it is actually named as a Leper Hospital when a certain Thomas Reymond, in his will dated 8th June 1418, left 4d to ‘the Leper house at

Torrington’. Only three lepers could be accommodated at the hospital at any one time. They would go from door to door in Taddiport with their begging bowls, using clapper and bells to warn of their arrival, but were forbidden from going up into Torrington. In 1593 the hospital appeared to have its full complement of lepers, but no further mention of it can be found until 1645 when the chapel was provided with a bell. There were no longer any lepers at the ‘lazar house’ by this time.

In 1665 the Magdalen Lands were

granted to the corporation for the relief of the poor of the borough. Farmed by the civic authorities over the centuries, the fields gradually began to lose their distinctive appearance as the closely spaced hedges fell away. The fields were made larger during the Second World War to fit in with war-time food production. The remaining strips were rescued in 1970 by a local benefactor, Mr McKinnon, and public subscription and are now in the safe hands of the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity.

A programme of works to rebuild the traditional Devon banks and the hedgerows returned the leper strips to their former glory. Using local rural craftsmen to restore the land to its condition when the strips were first created in medieval times, a fascinating piece of history has been preserved.

The appearance of the narrow fields is being safeguarded, and the Trustees will ensure the agricultural use of the land mirrors the environmentally-friendly practices of the past. No artificial fertilisers are to be used, the grass is not to be cut until 13th July and summer grazing is to stop by 31st October. From an archaeological point of view, the banks themselves are interesting as they contain quite a lot of medieval pottery, which was spread on the fields with manure and the hedges act as time capsules.

Moira Brewer

"Taddy’ is from the Old English ‘taddige’ which means ‘toad’, and the name of the village may have had some reference to the scaly skin of lepers who lived at the leper hospital of St Mary Magdalen."

Fleur’s Gardening Forum Garden Visiting

This is the main season for visiting other people’s gardens, and what a choice we have here in Devon! We have to thank all these gardeners for their generosity, and perhaps bravery, in opening their gardens for others to scrutinise!

Most of these gardens open their gates to raise money for charitable purposes and the most well-known of these is the National Garden Scheme (the Yellow Book as it has been known for years because of the colour of the covers). This scheme raises money for nursing charities, including Marie Curie and MacMillan Nurses, but they can also cover local charities such as the North Devon Hospice and Devon Air Ambulance. Having visited many such gardens over the years, I have been pleasantly surprised at the beauty of most of them and the imaginative designs built by the owners who, for the most part, are true amateurs. This, of course is one of the best parts of visiting these gardens because you can pick up tips and ideas for your own patch. In fact, it can sometimes inspire you to open your own garden, since many very much reflect the owner’s character and tastes and are, therefore, uniquely special.

Neither are these gardens always several acres/hectares in size, many are quite small and they are all different! And, of course, you must always remember that there is frequently tea and homemade cake for sale, too!

You can sometimes buy bargain plants, but you have to get there early… some kind gardeners might even give you a plant if you are lucky.

You can also find a series of gardens in one village that are open, often to raise money for a local good cause and this brings me to Torrington itself, which I note is holding its own open garden day on Sunday, 2nd July. This is to raise money for the Bickford Centre which is a house in town which caters for retired (over 65s) people who can meet up and chat and sometimes. The entrance fee is £5 per person for all the gardens and any plant sales will raise money for Torrington in Bloom.

Whatever gardens you manage to visit this year, have a great time but especially keep the 2nd July in your diaries for Torrington’s own special day.

Fleur

We are always delighted to receive letters from our community. Please send to torrington. crier@gmail.com, post to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or send via Facebook @ torringtoncrier

Torrington Baptist Church

Services on Sunday mornings at 10.30am followed by refreshments.

Everyone is welcome to join our friendly, growing fellowship, as we seek to glorify God in our worship.

Torridge Walk & Talk

Anice way to get fit, make friends and enjoy yourself!

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, with a variety of walks for all levels. Just turn up and join in for free.

Full details on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk or call Steve 01273 421528.

GREAT TORRINGTON Your Council, Working for YOU

From Your Mayor…

May Fair weekend was the final event for the Mayoral year 2022-23, and I am thrilled to have now officially accepted the role of Mayor for next year. I would like to thank everyone who supported me throughout last year and I look forward to working with you all again over the next twelve months. It was my pleasure to present cheques to the Girlguiding Association and Devon Air Ambulance during the Mayor’s Introduction Ceremony. It was also wonderful to present my Good Citizen’s award for 2022-2023 to Andrew Giles, who has raised significant sums for the Torrington Commons Conservators, and to present the Howe Plate to Stuart Davey on behalf of Great Torrington Town Council. Stuart has raised thousands of pounds for local and national charities over the years organising quiz nights at The Torrington Arms.

I would like to pay tribute to my retiring Mayor’s Cadet, Corporal Leah Roy, who has stepped in to help me on countless

Portrait of the King

Thank you to everyone who sent in their entries to the ‘Portrait of the King’ competition for the Coronation, we were very impressed with the overall standard. After much deliberation, the Mayor, Cllr Doug Smith selected sisters Ana and Alexandra Sararu - (Cllr Smith was unaware that they were sisters!) - as winners in their respective age groups, with Tilly Coates and Rita Coysh being awarded second place in their age category.

occasions throughout the year at various parades and functions. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome the new Mayor's Cadet for 2023/2024 Sgt Lee.

My charities for the upcoming year are the Eve Appeal, a national charity who research Gynaecological Cancers, and Torrington Foodbank, who are providing a vital service to many local families.

Rev Rob Blackhall deserves special mention as my retiring Chaplain; he has been a source of inspiration and support. Father Steve Turner, our new Vicar at St Michael’s and All Angels is going to be the Chaplain for 2023-2024, and he will be conducting our Civic Service at 10am on 25th June in the church, to which everyone is cordially invited.

I am delighted to welcome Cllr. Phil Cloke as my Deputy Mayor for the coming year, Phil and I have many ideas in common, and I look forward to working with him on many projects.

Cllr Doug Smith, Mayor of Great Torrington

Town Council Awards 2023

This year the Town Council has awarded the Howe Plate to Stuart Davey, in recognition of the brilliant quizzes that Stuart has organised over many years, helping to raise thousands of pounds for a variety of both local and national charities. Stuart gives a lot of his time to set the questions for each quiz and is always an entertaining quiz master, which means anyone attending is guaranteed an enjoyable evening alongside raising charitable funds.

The Mayor’s Good Citizen Award for 2023, was given by Cllr Doug Smith to Andrew Giles, who is Vice Chair of the Great Torrington Commons Conservators. Andrew has raised thousands of pounds by selling books and jigsaws, with all funds going towards the ongoing maintenance of our wonderful commons.

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

History Alive Saturday 29th July

Did you know that the two strip fields across the valley are what remain of fields that were reserved for the use of lepers who lived in the hospital of St Mary Magdalen in Taddiport from the 14th to the 17th century?

Join us on Saturday 29th July to find out more about Great Torrington’s fascinating heritage at our History Alive event! Activities will be taking place all over the town all day – please see below for details. A programme will be published prior to the event and will be available for collection from the Town Council, Tourist Information Centre and various other outlets across the town.

Timed Events

10am: Official Opening: Town Square

10am-12 noon: Torrington Silver Band, Town Square

10-11am & 1:30-2:30pm: Rolle Canal Society Guided Tour: Starts & ends at Puffing

Billy (total distance approx. 1 mile)

10am-1pm: Great Torrington Bowling Club ‘Open House’: The Bowling Club, The Green, Castle Street

11am-12 noon: Torrington Historical Society Talk on Gloving in Great Torrington: Methodist Church, Mill Street

11:30am-12:30pm & 3-4pm: Tarka Valley Railway Tour: Starts and ends at Puffing

Billy (no more than 1 mile)

2pm: The Great Cemetery Scandal Talk by Peter Christie: Great Torrington Town Hall

2-4pm: Costumed Bowls Competition: The Bowling Club, The Green, Castle Street

All Day Events (10am-4pm unless otherwise stated)

Costumed Market Day (10am-2pm): Pannier Market

May Fair Exhibition: Great Torrington Town Hall

Dig The Castle stall: Great Torrington Town Hall

Vintage Weekend: RHS Rosemoor (normal entry fees apply)

History of Glass Making in Great Torrington: Dartington Crystal

17thC Costumed Guides: Physic Garden, Castle Hill

Historical Characters: Throughout the town

Vacancy for a Town Beadle

Great Torrington Town Council is active in keeping the traditions of the town alive, one of those traditions is to have a small team of civic role holders which includes a Beadle, Town Crier and Mace Bearers. Their role is to support the Council at various functions throughout the year. We currently have a vacancy within the team for a Town Beadle.

Duties would include accompanying the Mayor to various functions as well as taking part in events within the town.

In order to carry out the role of Beadle, you would need a car, be willing to obtain the appropriate insurance and be happy to drive the Mayor and Mayoress/ Consort to functions etc. The Beadle is provided with a mileage allowance, a small honorarium, plus a uniform. Some of the duties will involve evening and weekend work. This vacancy is open to both men and women.

If you are interested in being the Beadle for Great Torrington Town Council, give us a call on 01805 626135 or email: admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk before Tuesday 15th August 2023.

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Co-Option of Town Councillor

The Town Council has vacancies for four Co-Opted Councillors to join us. Becoming a Town Councillor will give you the opportunity to get involved with a number of projects and interests within the community of Great Torrington. If you are passionate about the town, prepared to roll your sleeves up and get involved, and meet at least one of the criteria below, we invite you to submit a written application outlining why you are interested in becoming a Town Councillor and what you believe you can bring to the role for consideration.

If the answer to at least one of the below statements is “yes”, you are eligible to apply to be a Town Councillor:

a) I am registered as a local government elector for the parish; or

b) I have, during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of my cooption, occupied as owner or tenant, and or other premises in the parish; or

c) My principal or only place of work during those twelve months has been in the parish; or

d) I have during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of my cooption resided in the parish or within three miles of it.

Application forms can be obtained from the Town Council office or downloaded from our website: www.great-torrintontowncouncil.gov.uk

One of our most recently appointed councillors, Cllr Dave Parish says; “I am proud to have been a Town councillor for 18 months now, and have immensely enjoyed the experience and learned much in the process.

It has been a pleasure to work with a truly dedicated team who contribute to make Great Torrington a ‘Great’ place to live.

There so much more we can do. Be part of the future, ‘Come and join us.”

For an informal chat with one of the team, please call the office on 01805 626135.

Applications can be posted to or dropped in to our offices: Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Great Torrington, EX38 8AA or sent by email to admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk to be received no later than Tuesday 15th August 2023. Co-options will take place at the Full Council meeting on Thursday 7th September 2023.

Jennie Smithson, Town Clerk

Torrington Together

The summer meeting of Torrington

Together will be held at Torridge Vale Social Club, South Street, Torrington on Wednesday June 28th at 7pm.

There will be a variety of local speakers and we invite representatives of local community groups to attend the meeting. If you would like to attend, please do get in touch ASAP so as we can have an idea of numbers.

Also, if you would like to speak at a future meeting contact us on 01805 626135 or admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk. We are always looking for speakers and would love to hear from representatives of new groups.

Snow Warden Volunteers

Great Torrington Town Council is currently part of the Snow Warden scheme with Devon County Council. Our technician Andy is our trained Snow Warden and receives relevant updates from Devon County Council (DCC). Further information about the scheme is available on their website: www.devon.gov.uk/communities/ opportunities/snow-warden-scheme

During the spell of snow in December 2022 Great Torrington Town Council officers received several phone calls, social media messages and emails about grit bin locations and problems with ice, which was making it difficult for people to safely leave their homes in various housing estates. The main roads through Torrington are gritted by DCC, and our technicians clear the Square as a priority to allow people to access food and medicines etc. Great Torrington Town Council is in the early stages of considering extending the Snow Warden Scheme to include a small team of volunteers. These volunteers are given some training and would receive updates from the Snow Warden and could potentially grit areas of the town which would not be included in DCC’s route, or be gritted as a priority by the Snow Warden. This could help more people to continue to access employment, appointments, and shops more safely.

If you would be interested in volunteering for Great Torrington Town Council as part of the Snow Warden Scheme, please get in touch 01805 626135 or email admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

On September 20th OWBG will be hosting a free event at Torrington Rugby Club to which anyone is welcome, so we're in the throes of doing the necessary preparation and organization.

OWBG is about helping us all to support our own health in a multitude of practical ways, so we've asked one of our suppliers, Microbz, to give a 45-minute talk about the probiotic micro-organisms They are fundamental and essential to all life and the talk will show us how we can harness the power of microbes for vitality, health and wellbeing in our bodies, our homes, gardens and animals.

OWBG members will provide a delicious handmade light buffet lunch after Q & A, so it'll be an ideal opportunity to try different dishes and discover how being an active member of OWBG could benefit you, your family and friends. Full information and booking details in the Crier next month and on our website and Facebook page very soon! We trust that everyone will appreciate that while the event is free, booking is essential - we do need to know how many people we're catering for!

Wellbeing Tip: Summer is the time associated with holidays, fun and relaxation. Nature is in full bloom with a wonderful array of colours, tastes and aromas. Summer energy nurtures the heart and the small intestine, so naturally we want to feel lighter, more joyful and to align with the heat of summer and the element of FIRE. In hot weather our body naturally sweats more, which means we lose more minerals and these need to be replenished.

If we base our daily food on mainly animal proteins and heavy saturated fats that generate heavy, slow, dense, hot energy in the body, when the heat arrives we will be attracted to the opposite energetic extreme in the form of excess liquids, tropical fruits, ice cream, cold drinks, sugar and alcohol for example. These extremes will make us lose our energetic balance and produce very acidic blood, just at the very time our bodies need to lighten and improve our blood quality and circulation. Pathogens such as bacteria and viruses just love acidic blood! Acid blood exacerbates pain too.

To eat well in summer, we need to use a wide variety of brightly coloured fruits and vegetables to create dazzlingly attractive meals. Regularly use a little spicy, pungent food or even fiery flavour. Cook more lightly - more quick water sautéing and steaming, use high heat for sautéing, only for a very short time. Eating less is helpful too.

Warm and hot drinks will make the body disperse heat from inside to outside, so you'll feel more comfortable. In the same way, spicy food makes us warm, so we sweat and disperse heat. Nature's order is perfect - that's why spicy foods are actually cooling and why they grow in hot countries where they are needed. Too much cold food in summer heat weakens the digestion, causing contraction, holding in sweat and heat. Ice cream and iced drinks contract the stomach and stop digestion, and are also extremely bad for our kidneys.

On hot days, use cooling fresh foods such as salads, sprouted beans and seeds especially mung beans and alfalfa, cucumber, tofu; fruits such as apples, watermelons, lemons and limes. For pungency use hot red and green peppers, cayenne red pepper, fresh ginger root, horseradish and black pepper. Particularly beneficial foods are corn, quinoa, long grain brown rice, bitter greens, sea vegetables such as nori, organic strawberries (strawberries are one of the foods containing the most pesticides).

Upcoming grocery final order dates: 13th July; 10th August

How do I join? Via our Facebook page or website, full info on the website! What does membership cost? Free; What if I need advice or have questions?

Ring 01805 623 307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk; OWBG Website: owbg. jimdofree.com; Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group; Email: owbg@ protonmail.com; www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

Torrington RFC

Very little to report this time around. With it being the close season, obviously no match reports. Our Trophy final replay date is still to be decided, this will probably happen at some time in the new season. Well, let’s hope so anyway!

A new player recruitment event was held at Donnacroft, with some success. This was to entice new players to sample Torrington RFC and to see our facilities, followed by a BBQ and some light refreshments afterwards. This is a series of recruitment drives funded by the RFU. Another was to have been held in July but has been deferred to a later date. Keep an eye on social media for announcements.

The only other item of interest is our AGM on 9th June, where the election of committee members will take place, although there seems to be little change in the offing. We are, though, still looking for a treasurer; Charlene Hoare has been ably keeping the books for us on a temporary basis. Thanks Char.

As always the Clubhouse is available for hire. Email TRFC1985@outlook. com to check availability.

Enjoy the good weather and your summer.

C’mon Torri!

Teamwork, Respect, Discipline, Sportsmanship & Enjoyment

Mark Waterson

For all your quality bespoke wooden gates, garden furniture & timber needs, inc all fencing materials.

Dry Seasoned, Ready-to-Burn logs

Now available!

Do come down and see us at Victoria Sawmills, Merton EX20 3EG, 01805 603429 www.torridgegates.co.uk

Rosemoor Live! in the Garden Room

Motown Soul & Disco Party, Thursday 29th June

Dance the night away with a whole evening of Motown, with Richie Sampson breathing new life into classic Drifters hits, followed by Angelo Starr and the Edwin Starr Band performing Motown legend Edwin Starr’s greatest hits, plus other favourite covers.

Members £15 Non-members: £20

An evening with songs from James Bond, Friday 30th June

Dress up like your favourite British spy and enjoy an evening of cocktails, martinis and songs from James Bond.

‘Q’ The Music Show has gone on to critical acclaim thanks to its adrenalinefueled performances and superb musicianship and flair.

Members £22:50 Non-members: £27.50

Barrett's Privateers, Saturday 1st July

Barrett's Privateers have delighted audiences throughout Cornwall and beyond with their broad, rich harmonies. singing songs of the sea, shanties, traditional folk, Cornish and mining songs.

Members £15 Non-members: £20

Everly Brothers & Buddy Holly

Tribute, Thursday 6th July

Rock the night away with an evening of spectacular live performances of the music of one of the greatest harmony duos, The Everly Brothers, and Buddy Holly, performed by The Temple Brothers and Buddy Walker.

Members £15

Non-members:

£20

Rum & Rhythm, Friday 7th July

An evening of live music and dancing with your favourite tipple, with The Bone Idols’ covering blues, rock, psychedelic and everything in between,

Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator

Fully qualified tradesman

• Interior and exterior painting

• Paper hanging

• No job too big or too small

For a friendly reliable service from a local tradesman ring: T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

and The Wild Strawberries, featuring local legend Big Al, performing a range of country, pop and Tex-Mex classics, as well as their own original music.

Members £15 Non-members: £20 Rockabilly night with The Kingsnakes, Saturday 8th July

The Kingsnakes, one of Bristol’s hardest workin’ rockabilly and rock n’ roll bands, are guaranteed to get you up and dancing. Enjoy music from a mixture of artists from a fantastic era including Elvis, Chuck Berry, and Eddie Cochran. Put on your denim and polka dots and join us for a fantastic night!

Members £15 Non-members: £20 All shows are indoors in the Garden Room, doors open at 7pm with music starting at 8pm. Tickets include access to the gardens from 3pm, catering and refreshments available from 5pm. A concert bus will run from Bideford to Great Torrington and onto Rosemoor for £8 return per person.

Vintage Weekend, Saturday 29thSunday 30th July

Go back in time and see our largest ever collection of vintage and classic vehicles, 'Dig for Victory' in the Stream Field with the Land Army and 1920s re-enactors, plus family entertainment, trade stands and food and drink

Little Torrington WI

June’s meeting was a trip to the RNLI station at Appledore, it was a busy practice night for the station and the RNLI volunteers, we had a great tour highlighted with stories of rescues. Members enjoyed fish and chips on Appledore Quay afterwards.

Members of the WI Environment Group had a successful first meeting discussing topics repair, reuse, recycle, reducing our use of fossil fuels and preserving our natural environment.

The ladies that lunch dinned at the Imperial Barnstaple. They meet on the third Wednesday of every month.

The book club is reading ‘The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake’, by Aimee Bender. The group meets on the third Monday of the month.

The next WI meeting is Monday 3rd July with an evening of archery, with members participating.

For further details of Little Torrington WI please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.

Community Sponsorship Group Starting in Torrington!

Community Sponsorship gives refugee families a brand new start in the heart of welcoming communities.

It's a practical and inspirational support network, and it transforms lives forever.

You may never have heard of it, but it's going on quietly across Devon and we want to give you the chance to be part of it. Feeling a little bit curious?

You can come along to our open evening on Thursday 29th June at 7pm, in the Undercroft, Torrington Town Hall.

throughout

For further info contact Sara Wilson: sara@thepickwellfoundation.org.uk

the garden.

Free with garden entry, members go free

Property Market Place Tips

Additional bedrooms are a huge selling point in and of themselves; but a stylish and cosy spare room could be just the clinching incentive for buyers looking for a lifestyle upgrade this year. If you’re thinking about transforming your spare room in time for house hunting season, we’ve compiled our favourite decorating ideas, perfect for those extra spaces that could thrive off some TLC.

Craft a space for creativity

The function of the spare room needn’t be confined to a guest bedroom, in fact, contriving a space fit for an artist, a hobbyist or a remote worker might just bag you a buyer willing to pay a premium. Separate your spare room from the distractions of the rest of the house with an appointed work area, some handy fitted shelves and thick curtains for soundproofing.

Cosy

up in a home cinema

An impressive home cinema can call for a small or large budget depending on your desired effect. A large-screen TV, surround sound and a variety of comfortable loungers make up the perfect recipe for an at-home entertainment hub to kick back in after a long day. Or if you really want to amp up the theatrical appeal, invest in a wall projector and black-out blinds for the windows to create a truly weekendworthy escape for non-stop classics.

Make a home office

Home offices are sought after by many buyers - and for good reason. Gone are the days of working from the kitchen table, the next generation of buyers

Bideford District Photography Group

June provided lots of good weather and colourful and interesting events to get our shutters clicking, filling memory cards and draining batteries. Tuesday evening trips have proved popular, with some excellent photographic opportunities, as well as being convivial and often extended for a bevy and banter.

The trip to Meeth Nature Reserve was also popular, with the enticement of dragonflies and damselflies and waterfowl on the lakes.

The monthly members’ meeting at the Blue Lights Hall in Appledore provided ample opportunity for the sharing of images from our outings, and also for members to share their own personal projects.

Our summer programme continues through July and August, and there is plenty of variety and places to join us on a trip in a packed programme including:

4th July - Hartland Quay

8th July - day trip to Stover Country Park

11th July - in and around Torrington

18th July & 15th August – members’ night at the Blue Lights Hall Appledore

25th July - Westward Ho!

1st August - Morwenstow

8th August - Halsdon Devon Wildlife Trust, 10am start

22nd August - Halwill Junction

29th August - Meldon Reservoir

So, there is a good mix coming up to serve the membership, whatever their tastes.

We welcome photographers of all abilities: from complete beginners to more experienced practitioners. Most of these trips are completely free.

For further information, or if you need encouragement, email Tim at sanderst99@ gmail.com or enquiries@bidefordcameraclub.co.uk, or visit bidefordcameraclub. co.uk.

will be looking for appointed spaces in their homes to spend their 9-to-5. An ergonomic home office should ideally be a dedicated space that is properly outfitted for work, while also embracing a touch of personal style for extra cosiness.

Set up a games room

Think outside the box and indulge in a room designed for fun. Transforming your spare room into a games room can be as simple as styling a pool table, a video game setup, a dart board or even some vintage arcade machines. Top the whole thing off with a cosy sofa or some bean bags and a fun stereo so that guests know that this room is the place to be. Build a floor-to-ceiling bookcase

An at-home library sounds like a luxury

reserved for the rich, but book lovers can make this dream easily attainable by fitting a floor-to-ceiling bookcase. In a comfortable room with some warm lighting, a woven rug and a few seats or benches, a wall of books can become your home’s own secret library. Create a walk-in wardrobe or dressing room

Show off your home’s functionality with a walk-in wardrobe. Show off your favourite fashion pieces with shelving and racks, hang a wall-mounted mirror, and finish with a glamorous velvet seat for trying on shoes. If the space is really limited, opt for open wardrobes with shelving rather than doors and drawers, make use of coat hooks and stands, and ensure there is enough central floor room to get dressed comfortably by keeping furniture flat against the walls.

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

A J Installations

Alistair McMillan specialising in Aerial, Satellite and TV

Great Torrington Town Council & Futures Group Calendar 2024

Calling all local photographers! The Town Council in conjunction with the Futures Group is looking to publish a town calendar for 2024.

Torrington in Bloom

Our Grand Garden Open Day is upon us; at the time of writing, I am sure those who are kindly opening their gardens are frantically trying to tidy, plant, titivate, you name it, ready for the 2nd July. Let’s hope we get some rainfall between now and the 30th June (but none on the 2nd!).

We have 10 gardens available for you to visit, a number within walking distance of each other, some further out. Tickets are £5 per person and are currently on sale at Whiskers Pet Centre, Duffy’s Home Hardware and Fork ‘n’ Feast café in the gardens of Castle Hill (formerly 1646). On the day, tickets can be purchased from Castle Hill Gardens and some of the outlying gardens, too. Don’t forget that the ticket also entitles you to free entry to RHS Rosemoor garden, so a jolly good bargain all round.

Some gardens will have plants for sale and the proceeds will be donated to Torrington in Bloom. Proceeds from ticket sales will be given to the upkeep of the Bickford Centre in Torrington.

We should like to convey our thanks to Stephen Saywell of the Torrington Rotary Club for organising this event and for the excellent guide to the gardens.

Work continues on the flowerbed by S&G Carpets and also in Rack Park. Again, monies donated by Torrington Horticultural Society have been used specifically on the former and some has gone towards the latter.

We are still waiting to hear of the date the judge from South West in Bloom will be visiting to look at our ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries for this year. Usually, judging takes place during July and this is our opportunity to show how much work our lovely volunteers carry out over the year. Without such help, Torrington would not be nearly so welcoming to the many visitors to our town, so a huge thank you to you all.

Cherry Hammon, 01805 625788

You will remember our 2023 calendar; we had such a brilliant response we thought we would do it all over again. The calendar raised approximately £1200, of which some of the proceeds will be put towards the ‘Dig the Castle’ project (www.onegreattorrington.uk/ digthecastle).

We are looking for a new set of photographs of the town, whether that’s beautiful landscapes, nature, events, groups, clubs, etc. If you have a favourite photograph, or a few, which you have taken and are happy for it to be used in the calendar and on the OneGreatTorrington.uk website, please send it through. We will ensure all photographs are credited to the photographer and photographers featuring in the calendar will receive their own copy of the calendar for FREE as a thank you. Please send your high quality photographs via email to gt.futuregroup@gmail.com or visit www. onegreattorrington.uk/calendar2024

We have taken on board comments and feedback from the 2023 calendar and will be making improvements to the layout. We are also considering selling calendars through the OneGreatTorrington.uk website.

Ian Ashelford

Garden & Landscape

All garden & landscape work undertaken, large & small, by experienced & qualified landscaper & designer, plus

Tel: 07971533 235

One Great TorringtonTown Website

The town website has been live now for a few years and contains a wealth of information about the town's history, heritage, tourist attractions, accommodation, things to do, exploring the area with maps, walks and trails. We are regularly adding information so have a look and see what is new!

Are you a new shop owner, trader, club, society, etc., in or around town?

If yes, welcome! Are you aware you can get FREE advertising on the town website? Do you have a listing already, have you checked it recently or perhaps have updates or new photos to upload?

Have a look at www.

OneGreatTorrington.uk to log in to your account and to find your listing, you can do it online, anywhere at any time.

If you are having problems please contact us via email gt.futuregroup@ gmail.com or via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/

OneGreatTorrington

Torrington RFC Youth Section Awards

The Youth Section had a fantastic end of season, despite the continued rain which seemed to really enjoy showing up on a Wednesday training night, every week! As I write this in early June, the pitches could do with a bit of rain after a few really dry weeks!

On Friday 19th May, we held our annual awards evening. After two years of desperately trying to have the presentation on the pitch in the sunshine with glorious weather and picturesque setting, this was the year. Until the end of the first speech when the one black cloud decided to release heavy rain, at which point, the parents and players grabbed everything and headed indoors to continue with the awards. Maybe next year! In typical Torrington style, everyone helped and found the funny side.

Congratulations to the following players:

U9 Most Improved - Barnaby Sims; U9 Trainer of the Year - Henry Kite; U9 Coaches’ Player of the Year - Archie Allan; U9 Players’ Player of the Year - Riley Drew

U10 Most Improved - Cai Duggan; U10 Trainer of the Year - Jake Nicholls; U10 Coaches Player of the Year - Jack Quinlan; U10 Players’ Player of the YearHarry Vickary, Jake Pincombe & Ashley Gaskin

U11 Most Improved - Josh Huxtable; U11 Trainer of the Year - Jake Body; U11 Coaches’ Player of the Year - Ted Simmons; U11 Players’ Player of the YearJake Body

Girls Most Improved - Effie Amey; Girls Trainer of the Year - Lily Beer; Girls Coaches’ Player of the Year - Maisie Simmons; Girls Players’ Player of the Year - Leah Quinlan

U13 Boys Most Improved - Slava; U13 Boys Trainer of the Year - Adam Beer; U13 Boys Coaches’ Player of the Year - Ewan Johns; U13 Boys Players’ Player of the Year - Miles Holland

U14 Boys Most Improved - Leon Gardiner; U14 Boys Trainer of the YearCharlie Fuller; U14 Boys Coaches’ Player of the Year - Camball Reeks; U14 Boys Players’ Player of the Year - Will Vowles

We like to take part in community events where possible, and some of the players entered the gruelling Round the Tree Race on the Friday of May Fair week and did very well. No coaches took part this year!

All the coaches, players and parents are now taking a well-deserved break from rugby, but we'll be back in September! Training for all age groups will be on a Wednesday evening and the age groups we will be running are U7, U10, U11, U12, U14 and U12/14 girls.

Please contact the youth section chairman Adrian Avery for more details agavery81@gmail.com or 07780 665 378

What is Hope?

Recently there have been a number of worrying press reports about detrimental issues affecting many teenagers. For example addiction to vaping, a rise in sexually transmitted diseases and increased mental health problems. It’s sad to listen to these news reports and worrying to think of how the future will unfold for some of our young people. Is there hope?

The world’s view of hope is not the same as the biblical (Christian) definition of hope. For the world, they hope their team wins the match or they hope that they might pass their exams, but the biblical definition is different. The world’s hope is a “hope-so” but the Christian’s view of hope is a “know-so.” What does Christian hope do for us? It changes the way we think and how we live. It changes our perspective about what we are going through today. It changes what we think might be important to what really is important. It even changes how we see ourselves, both today and forever. If our hope is in God, our hope is more certain than the sunrise tomorrow.

A passage in the Bible teaches us about the hope God promises: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

The Door of Hope team pray regularly for our wonderful young people. If you would like to know more about this Christian hope or if you have any prayer requests, please contact 07702 589 799.

Does the word ‘diet’ make you think about being controlled and restricted?

At my Torrington group, we’ve ditched the diet mentality to focus on making enjoyable, sustainable lifestyle changes that work in the real world. It’s a switch from ‘I shouldn’t’ to ‘I want to’, because Food Optimising is all about choice –and it puts you back in control. Discover the difference at my supportive group on Wednesdays at Castle Community Centre, Torrington, at 5.30pm or 7pm or call Tracy on 07787 010 400.

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a Slimming World cookery book. Please send completed crossword with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com. The winner for last issue is Neil Reeby. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 13th July and the solution and winner will be in the August/September issue.

Slimming World

If you’re used to always putting your family first, it can be hard to move yourself up your to-do list. It’s not selfish to prioritise the time you need to cook healthy meals ahead, though, or to fit activity into your busy week. In fact, it’s likely to have a positive knock-on effect on those you love

“I was fed up of sitting on the sidelines watching my kids’ adventures. Now, I love that I can join in on bike rides, walking and bodyboarding on holiday. They’re so proud of me.” Meet Slimming World member Fiona, who lost 5st 9.5lbs and built a healthy mind and body habits along the way! Inspired? Talk to me!

My groups are on Wednesday’s, at the Castle Community Centre (1646), Torrington, at 9am, 10.30am, 5.30pm & 7pm. Or give me a call to find out more: Tracy 07787 010 400.

Rolle Canal Rosemoor Site

Our team of volunteers has been fully occupied working on various areas of the canal over the last three months.

As ever, our main focus has been the Rosemoor site, where satisfying progress has been made on the upper basin and the tucking mill. We spent several weeks consolidating the stonework of the west wall of the upper basin to create a sound base for the concrete capping. This entailed constructing extensive wooden formwork within which to cast the coping blocks. The stretch of wall to be capped was approximately 80 metres long, so the casting was done in four stages. This required a huge amount of concrete and kept our resident mixologists busy producing sufficient material for each pour. We had some difficulty removing the wooden dividers between the individual capping blocks, but the finished length of coping looks very professional. We are currently debating whether we should cap off the eastern wall of the upper basin.

We have also carried out further restoration work on the tucking mill, which has included re-building the wall of the mill race – the last section of wall needing repair. There are some interesting features in the wall here which we have taken pains to preserve, as we believe these may have been the housings for the long shaft from the water wheel which drove the tucking mechanism. There are two distinct grooves in the floor which may have held a wooden base for the machinery.

Fortunately, we had some large timber baulks on site which were exactly the right size and we have inserted these into the grooves to indicate the possible location of the tucking mechanism. While this work was going on, other members of the team have spent time consolidating the floor of the mill and repairing some of the cobbled sections which are badly damaged. Inevitably, in the absence of any plans, we have had to make educated guesses as to how the structure of the mill might have looked originally, but the restoration is starting to look very impressive.

In addition to the above, we had a working party at Ridd in early May to tidy up the site prior to the first guided walk of the season. As ever, nature had started to reclaim the site and a substantial amount of scrub bashing was required to get it ship shape again. We were very pleased to see that the ivy on the roof of the old stable block had died back over the winter, and we hope to remove this entirely later in the year. Given our limited resources, it is an unfortunate fact of life that places

like Ridd and Furzebeam do not receive as much attention as they deserve. However, when our work at Rosemoor is complete (target date Spring 2024), we will be able to devote much more time to the maintenance (and enhancement!) of these important sections of the canal.

Tony Nicholls

Top: Rebuilding mill wall

Above: Prepared & in position; completed capping Eight stone-built holidays cottages

• All general cleaning

Shopping / Prescriptions

07773 973 498

From Your District Councillors…

At the Annual Business Meeting of Torridge District Council in May, members were elected to key roles within the Council:

Cllr Ken James was re-elected to the role of Leader of the Council, with Cllr Claire Hodson returning as Deputy Leader. Member for Shebbear and Langtree Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin was elected as Chair of the External Overview and Scrutiny Committee and Cllr Chris Bright was elected as Chair of Licensing. Members met for the first Full Council meeting of the term on June 19th

In response to the National Highways consultation on the Strategic Road Network, which outlines the most significant motorways and A roads in England, Chris has proposed that the A361 and A39 be considered as strategically important for linking Northern Devon and Cornwall to the rest of the country; at present only the M5 and A30 are part of the SRN in our region. Chris has been speaking to the Torridge and West Devon MP about raising the profile of the North Devon Link Road in government strategies, in the hope that this vital road can more easily

secure funding in the future.

Your District Councillor team have been following up on several issues relating to rubbish and recycling in the town. If there is anything you would like us to look into on your behalf, please contact us using the details below.

Cllr Doug Smith, Councillor.smith@ torridge.gov.uk, 07970 636 199

Cllr Lauren Bright, Cllr.laurenbright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07595 659 310

Cllr Chris Bright, Councillor.bright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909

JUly events at the plough

Visual Arts at The Plough

The Plough Goes Outdoors (again!)

Our Open Air Theatre Festival is back, and this year it’s better than ever.

It all began over 20 years ago when our Artistic Director, Richard, produced ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ at the Great Torrington Vicarage Gardens. Now we have 37 brilliant shows from 12 diverse theatre companies across 12 beautiful venues across Devon!

From Shakespeare to David Walliams and Jane Austen to Lewis Carroll, there really is something for everyone to enjoy. Many of the performances have pre-show drama workshops for 6-11 years, making this a fantastic way for the kids to become really immersed in the experience.

We’re also hosting an exciting outdoor music event, ‘Summer Sounds at The Big Sheep’, at 4pm on 29th July. Expect to enjoy up and coming local talent from the likes of The Kahunas, an alt-folk trio whose star is rising fast; Captal, who blur lines between garage rock, post-punk, and indie pop; a Johnny & June Tribute with Roseanna Ball and Ian Holleran; Small Town Jones (aka Jim Jones) who’s been garnering great reviews and high profile appearances; and the winner of our Battle of The Bands competition (which takes place on Friday 14th July 8pm).

Tickets are selling faster than anticipated – so get booking, bring your low backed seating and come and enjoy some exceptional outdoor fun!

Your Plough Arts Centre

From Tuesday 27th June to Saturday 8th July the GTS Summer Exhibition showcases the amazing creativity and artistic skills of GTS pupils across all years. Vibrant, diverse original ideas covering a variety of themes, including links between mental health and art, climate change and the environment, African culture and much more. GTS pupils have explored a range of different ideas experimenting with a variety of materials resulting in some inventive and original outcomes. Be a part of it as we invite you to vote on your favourite piece of artwork, with winning artists awarded from the public vote. We are also exhibiting work from the Bluecoats school downstairs until the 8th. On Saturday 15th we are opening a show of work by recent graduates. Devon-based artists Erika Cann, Millie Laing-Tate and Laura Robertson bring their practices together through a shared language which investigates our human relationship with the environment. This new body of collaborative work is inspired by the fluidity of rocks and geological time. Interactions within the ecosystem become methods of workingtouch, collage and installation are standins for percolation, weathering and the animacy of stone. Downstairs we will be showing a collection of black and white film photographic prints by local North Devon artist George Rayner

JUly at the Plough

Sat 01/07

Until 08/07 Tues-Sat 10am-4pm, Great Torrington School & Bluecoats Exhibition

10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Green Man

Pottery Workshop ThePlough@StAnne's

10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Animals in Pastels ThePlough@StAnne's + every Sat in term time 10.15am/1pm

Plough Youth Theatre 3-18yrs

7:30pm Film: Pretty Red Dress (Cert tbc)

7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple

Bygone Brothel Tour ThePlough@StAnne's

Sun 02/07

10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Bowl Basket

Willow Weaving Workshop ThePlough@

StAnne's

7pm Film: Pretty Red Dress (Cert tbc)

Mon 03/07

7pm Workshop: Moon Circle ThePlough@

StAnne's

Tues 04/07

+ every Tues in term time 10.30am/1.30pm

Plough Prism/Motion Dance. For adults with additional needs.

7pm Workshop - Dance: Bioform Dance

Theatre with Miranda Jankowska Dance Studio at The Plough

7:30pm Workshop: Ploughcappella The Gallery at The Plough

Weds 05/07

2pm Film: Pretty Red Dress (Cert tbc)

6pm Dance: Resource Dance with Becca

Parkinson Dance Studio at The Plough

Thurs 06/07

10:30am Workshop: Sing and Sign Babes

Dance Studio at The Plough

2pm Film: Pretty Red Dress (Cert tbc) + every Thurs in term time 4.30pm Plough

Youth Script Writers

7pm Theatre: Plough Youth Theatre Juniors: 'Riverwalks'

7:30pm Poetry/Spoken Word: Plough

Storytelling Circle ThePlough@StAnne's

7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple

Town, Rail & River Haunted History Tour

ThePlough@StAnne's, Fri 07/07

7pm Workshop: Gong Bath Meditation

ThePlough@StAnne's

7pm Theatre: Plough Youth Theatre Juniors: 'Riverwalks'

Sat 08/07

10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Seascape in Acrylics ThePlough@StAnne's

10:30am Workshop: Plough Writers The Plough Meeting Room

8pm Music: James Dixon The Gallery at The Plough

Thurs 13/07

7:30pm Workshop: Deep Rest Healing

Meditation ThePlough@StAnne's

7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Torrington

Tarka Trail Haunted History Tour, The Gallery at The Plough

8pm Music: The Plough Open Mic The Gallery at The Plough

Fri 14/07

8pm Music: Battle of the Bands (Bands Night)

Sat 15/07

Until 23/8 10am-4pm Tues-Sat Exhibition: The foot sinks into it

Until 23/8 10am-4pm Tues-Sat Artists Wall: Transient Tales

10:30am Workshop - Visual Arts: Wish you were here? Print Workshop ThePlough@ StAnne's

4:30pm Workshop: Find Your Voice Singing Workshop with Rosa Rebecka ThePlough@ StAnne's

Open Air Theatre Sun & Moon present

Romeo & Juliet Castle Hill Gdns, Gt. Torrington

8pm Music: Rosa Rebecka ThePlough@ StAnne's

Sun 16/07

Open Air Theatre Sun & Moon present

Romeo & Juliet Castle Hill Filleigh, S. Molton

Tues 18/07

7pm Workshop - Dance: Bioform Dance Theatre with Miranda Jankowska Dance Studio at The Plough

7pm Workshop - Dance: Bioform Dance

Theatre with Miranda Jankowska Dance

Studio at The Plough

Weds 19/07

6pm Dance: Resource Dance with Becca

Parkinson Dance Studio at The Plough

6.30pm Open Air Theatre Festival Players present: Twelfth Night Clovelly Court

Thurs 20/07

7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple

Town, Park & Prison Haunted History Tour

ThePlough@StAnne's

Fri 21/07

7pm Open Air Theatre Sun & Moon present

Romeo & Juliet Lapford Mill, Nr. Crediton

8pm Music: The Oggle Band Barn Dance/ Ceilidh

Sat 22/07

10:30am Workshop: Plough Writers The Plough Meeting Room

8pm Music: This Flight Tonight - An intimate acoustic tribute to the music of Joni Mitchell

Sun 23/07

6pm Open Air Theatre The Duke’s Theatre present: Twelfth Night Arlington Court (NT)

Weds 26/07

6pm Open Air Theatre Slapstick Picnic Theatre presents: Peter Pan Tapeley Park, Bideford + Drama Workshop 4pm

5pm Open Air Theatre BoxTree Productions:

A Midsummer Night’s Dream: The Musical Hartland Abbey + Drama Workshop 3pm

Thurs 27/07

5pm Open Air Theatre BoxTree Productions presents: A Midsummer Night’s Dream: The Musical Castle Hill Filleigh, S. Molton + Drama Workshop 3pm

7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple

Town Centre Haunted History Tour

ThePlough@StAnne's,

Fri 28/07

8pm Theatre: Don't Go Into The Cellar Theatre Co. present 'Restless Graves and other Ghostly Tales'

ThePlough@StAnne's

8pm Music: The Heathen Apostles

Sat 29/07

4pm ‘Summer Sounds’ North Devon Bands for all Ages at The Big Sheep

Sun 31/07

10am Workshop: Play in a Day - My heart was a tree (8-12 yrs) ThePlough@StAnne's Please note, a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings

Dear friend,

Thank you for your email which I read with interested. I was especially enticed to hear how you felt about joining the army and I felt compelled to reply to put forward my argument about why you should join.

Do you think it’s a difficult choice? I know someone who has been in the army for well over 20 years, and he said that it was and still is one of the best choices he has ever made. Did you know that 89% of veterans would choose to do it all again?

Imagine how proud everyone would be if you decided to join. I feel that participating in it would be an incredibly invigorating, inspiring, exciting experience and it would be your duty to care for those in need, and the people that would be collaborating with you. Joining up makes you proud, proud of the opportunities you chose to take. It makes you feel challenged, makes you persevere, but with both of those factors you can achieve great success.

Secondly, do you think joining would give you the freedom that you might not already have? You’ll have plentiful new opportunities available to you, like travelling the world, learning more complex skills (they could be useful to you in the future) and you could even discover some new hobbies that you may have. Some people may think that being a part of the army means that all you will be doing is going to different countries to fight their enemies with/for them.

However, not all of the jobs are to do with fighting; plenty of them are usually to do with helping groups of people and different areas if they’ve been affected by natural disasters or some other situations. Other examples, which don’t have anything to do with fighting, include supporting the NHS, protecting the country, preventing conflict here and in other places that need that help, and a multitude of more. As dangerous as some jobs can be at times, a lot of them can assist people who are in dire need of support. Not all jobs are high risk and some of the safer ones are paid more. Imagine the amount of people’s lives you could change!

Another good reason for joining would be the rewards that come along with being in the army. Not only do you have particularly good income, but all of your healthcare, rent, education and pension are all paid for. This is another thing that could benefit you in the future, and you’ll be grateful for it. Not only does this guarantee that your livelihood will have a huge amount of stability, it can also guarantee that you won’t really need to worry about how comfortable you are financially. You do want this don’t you? Do you think you would benefit from any of this?

I hope you take all of what I have mentioned into consideration, and I hope you take your time to think about it. It will really change your life, no matter how tiresome it may become at times. Just push through it and you may enjoy it. Yours sincerely, Caitlyn

Caitlyn Andrew, Year 10

Year 10 have been learning about the features of writing to argue and persuade in English. After exploring some non-fiction texts on the theme of war, we gave them the task of writing to a friend considering joining the army, to put forward their arguments about whether they should join up. The two examples below are from pupils who have been working really hard to apply the devices we have studied in class.

Dear Oliver,

Thank you for your letter which I read with exciting interest. I was mostly interested to hear why your thoughts about why you think joining the army is a good idea. I felt compelled to reply to put my argument about why I disagree with this concept. To a huge extent I strongly disagree with the idea of you joining the army. This is because of the high hazards you would have to take. Do you really want to put your life at risk? I imagine not. No amount of money should ever want to make you risk your life. Approximately 82% of veteran soldiers or current soldiers have got health problems such as, brain injury, PTSD, loss of body parts. My companion Jake is a veteran and has told many stories. Like how he now suffers with dejected nightmares, sorrowful and unexciting experiences.

Although most people say: “joining the army allows you to travel the world” “joining the army provides you discipline” “joining the army provides you with free health care” which I suppose people believe is a terrific argument. Travelling the world opens your mind to new things, everyone wants to do something new. Also having discipline could be good, however I disagree with this. Forcing discipline on people can result in injuries, only because forcing people to follow rules that they don’t agree with, they can go both ways, depraved and moral. I totally disagree with all of this. Travel: you could travel abroad just to be destroying the place you find yourself in. Free healthcare? Yes of course superb idea for some but would you really want to risk your life for free health care? Would you maybe never see your family again? Would you maybe never sleep in your own bed again for free health care? I thought not.

I’m most certain you don’t want to feel like a slave I mean who does? Well, if you join the army that’s what going to happen. You will feel prisoned, trapped. All that just so you can feel patriotic. You determine your free will, you choose what path you go down, free will means making the decisions right for you! Did you know In Switzerland, Korea and Japan it’s compulsory for you to join the army once you’re a specific age. Why would you want to feel forced into doing something you don’t want to do? 72% of teenage men now suffer from crippling anxiety and depression because of this. I have proved my many points and hope you think and consider this letter.

Yours sincerely with great wishes, Amelia

You are a total whey-face, I am stronger than you, Macbeth the little promise-breaker, You WILL listen to me, Drown in my disgusting deeds, Do as I say! How dare toy break your enterprise to me?

Spongy double-dealer, You could be king, Kings aren’t promise-breakers Bring yourself together, Stick with the plan. Come on my deadly-Duncan-plot, Make me proud of you again! I will not love a fancy-monger, You are weak to the bone, Macbeth you total why-face I am stronger than you.

Ben Webster, Year 7

Thou art a double-dealer, Two-faced liar, Oh I do desire

We were better strangers. I must have looked for a Fool when I was searching for you! Oh my stomach’s churning, When I cast mine eyes on thou. Thou art poison to my Blood, Oh my eyes flood

With the sting of your stench. I bite my thumb at thee; oh I guarantee Thou art not more man than me!

Lola Quick, Year 7

Amelia Ingram, Year 10

Here are two more of our excellent Lady Macbeth songs, written by Year 7 pupils after studying the scene in which the character persuades Macbeth to kill the king.

Abbeyfield

We are holding our Summer Garden Party on Saturday July 8th at Glen Tor, Villa Road, from 12.30 -3pm. Stalls include a raffle, bottle tombola, cakes, books, brica-brac and plants. Refreshments will be available including delicious desserts, accompanied by music! Entrance is £1.

If you are interested in the accommodation we have on offer, there should be an opportunity to be shown around the house too.

Don’t forget our monthly coffee mornings held on the third Friday of each month, from 10.30am-12pm, when you can enjoy tea or coffee and great cakes and meet residents, staff and volunteers for an informal chat about life at Glen Tor.

Our House Manager is always happy to talk to anyone interested in accommodation for themself or a loved one. Please call her on 01805 623605.

DO YOU RUN A LOCAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT COMMUNITY GROUP?

We are hoping to include the 'What's On in Torrington' local group listings again. If you run a community group for children or adults, then email torrington.crier@gmail.com.

Thanks!

Torrington Methodist Church

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

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

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

Our premises (various rooms, incl. wifi, projector) are available to hire, see website or phone Sheila 01805 622949. Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.

Tarka Valley Railway News

Since last month’s news, we have enjoyed largely unbroken sunshine on working days, including on the monthly Saturday when people who are unable to come along on Thursday can help out. This initiative has resulted in a number of new volunteers, although we still need more as there is a myriad of jobs to be done. Please email us on tarkavalleyrailway@gmail.com to find out more. We are currently looking for HR, safeguarding and site maintenance people.

The per way team have uplifted the infilled track between the gates and emergency crossing, and used the material to complete the surfacing of the area behind our container in preparation for more storage. The rear wall of the old Cattle Dock has also been cleared, and a raised garden created at the back of the coal dock. Broken fence posts on the platform side have been removed in readiness for replacement, and vegetation clearance carried out on platform 2 where we hope to place new containers.

Our TSO carriage has finally received some attention with the application of rust preventer on badly affected areas, followed by undercoat to prevent further rust damage. A full repaint will be required in due course.

The scaffold tower has finally been removed from the brake van, and the running boards cleared and treated with timber preservative. Undercoat has been applied to the north balcony side and further sanding and filling carried out.

It is encouraging that the good weather has brought visitors out, and our shop has had a successful period of trading. Every penny counts!

Our next Open Day will be held at Torrington Station on Saturday 5th August from 11am-4pm when we hope to be able to demonstrate an exciting development. We will have a variety of stalls, classic and sports cars and much more. Please make a note for your diary.

Do take a look at our Facebook and Instagram pages for latest news and updates, and our website has much useful information including videos, photographs and historical data. It is well worth checking it out: wwwtarkavalleyrailway.org.

Robert

Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

Meadows at Rosemoor

Across the garden’s various fields, large swathes of wildflowers dominate the landscape during summer. These meadows, first established in 2003, are a recreation of an increasingly rare but important habitat once found across Britain.

Here, the wonder of our native flora gets a chance to shine, with plants such as meadow buttercups, ox-eye daisies and ragged robin flowering in varied sequences throughout summer. With each year bringing differing weather, so too the meadows vary, as conditions favour one plant over another. The seasons are extended with introduced bulbs such as Camassia, Fritilaria and Narcissus.

Diversity in meadows naturally relies on conditions of low fertility, where the grasses are unable to bully out any competition. Being on heavy clay at Rosemoor however, intervention was needed in the form of a parasitic native called Yellow Rattle. This plant attaches itself to the roots of the grasses and helps keep them in check. By introducing the rattle and allowing it to continue to seed, more intensive and disruptive methods of establishment have been avoided.

We aim to manage the meadows in a way which works with the natural sequence as much as possible. In early August, once the wildflowers have set seed, the meadows receive their annual cut using a reciprocating mower or a scythe. The grass is left to dry over a few days before being collected to allow any seed to fall out. The meadows then receive a pass over with a chain harrow, creating light soil disturbance and replicating the effect of passing cattle, allowing for better seed germination, and then are left till next year’s cut.

The meadows continue to improve as they age. Early purple and marsh orchids have naturally colonised the fields, and autumn displays of fungi have increased, an indicator of the health and diversity of the meadows.

Alex Paines, Horticulturist Image©RHS/Sheila Dearing

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café is held on the second Saturday of the month 10am12pm. Grab yourself a coffee and a bacon roll, and see what the market has to offer. The stalls vary, but we regularly have: The Body Shop, Usborne Books, Linda's handmade cards, Beaford Ladies Group, local honey, Spencer's Glass, Sam's Household and Stuff and others. Free car park! Follow Beaford Village Hall on Facebook, and follow us to keep up with all of our events!