Torrington Crier June 2024

June 2024

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.

Country Ways Wedding & Event Venue OPEN DAY

The Country Ways Family would like to invite EVERYONE to our OPEN DAY and the official opening of our New Event Space, The Highland Barn on Saturday 29th June 2024 from 11am

The Terrace Bar will be open all day from 11am. Fresh Homemade Pizzas will be available from 1pm, Burgers & Chips from 7pm. Live Music from Meg Scoins from 11.30am & The Bicycle Repair Men at 3pm, DJ music from 7pm. Free admission all day! For more information, please see page 11. Please come and meet the Country Ways Family & see all that Country Ways has to offer. Proceeds from the day will be donated to the Devon Air Ambulance Country Ways, Little Knowle Farm, High Bickington, EX37 9BJ Email - office@country-ways.org • Telephone - 01769 560503

May Fair & Carnival 2024

What a wonderful few days we have all had for May Fair and Carnival 2024, the committee hope you all enjoyed the festivities!

Hats off to all the children, parents and teachers who braved the weather in the morning, and performed their singing and dancing. You did the town proud! Well done to those who won the floral dancing and thanks to Paul Tennant and Jean Jones for judging for us.

I think we were all delighted when, at just before 12noon, the rain stopped just in time for our May Queen and her entourage to make their entrance.

The beautiful outfits made by Toni Alexander were truly magic, and I think the children thoroughly enjoyed the Harry Potter theme. All the children did incredibly well and, in front of many visitors, the May Pole dances were executed perfectly! This is down to many hours of practise by both children and teachers and we want to thank the school for their constant support: May Fair wouldn’t be what it is without the children taking part and it’s such an important part of the town’s history.

Crowds enjoyed watching the Littleham Howlers and, of course, our very own Cavaliers, who provided entertainment throughout the day! A huge thank you goes to them for their support, not just on the day but with preparations beforehand in erecting the bunting and the bandstand, and helping in the morning to put out chairs.

I think everyone will agree that

Saturday was an incredible event, and the committee is delighted that it all went well and everyone enjoyed themselves.

A huge shout out goes to Toni Alexander, who put so much work into organising this event. She worked so hard to make sure we had entertainment all day and that every last little detail was thought about.

and friends

The weather helped make the day and seeing everyone congregate in the square at 6pm was a sight to behold; it was packed! The standard of the entries was very high and the Mayor, the entourage and myself had a very difficult time of choosing the winners, everyone was worthy of taking home a cup!

There had to be winners though, and they were as follows:

Best Family Entry (Jeff Guppy Cup) -

Hill Family - Labour Ward.

Best Children’s Group - FlintstonesBettis Family

Best Adult Group – Vintage May Pole

Dancers - Team Legend, WAGs and Stragglers

Best Adult Individual - Andrew GistLast Appeal

Best Child Individual - Henry WhiteRex Toy Story

Best Double Act - Gargoyles - Nick

Davey and David Allen

Carnival Queen - Carnival Drag Queens

- Anne Tattersall and Abbi Copp

Largest Group - Sheep - Alfie Stevens

Best Overall - Barbenheimer - Chris Tattersall and Darren Nudds

Lastly, and most importantly, we want to say a huge thank you to those of you who came forward to help us with stewarding and setting up over the three days. Events like these would not be possible without this kind of support and we are extremely grateful! A lot goes on behind the scenes in preparation for May Fair and it simply would not happen without our volunteers.

This last year has not been easy and personally, I want to thank the committee who I have worked with over the last eight months. We’ve pulled together and we did it, even when some months it seemed a little impossible.

We held a meeting on 21st May and at the time of going to print, we hope to see a lot more people there! If you’d like to see May Fair continue for 2025, we need your help!

Information on funds raised over the event will be available in due course.

Keeley Allin - Chair of the May Fair & Carnival Committee

Photos: Tarma Lynn Top right: Torrington Museum (From Facebook)

Read The Crier Online

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 07443 491 972

E: torrington.crier@gmail.com

Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon. We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication.

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 07912 693 858 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £26 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £51 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk

Town Distribution: The Joy family & Esther Williams

Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community

Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

Volunteers collect Criers from the Library each issue and drop them off in various villages. If your community doesn’t receive the Crier but would like to, and you can help, please contact Becky on 07443 491972, torrington.crier@gmail. com, or call in to Torrington Library. Disclaimer: The Crier does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, legality or reliability of any information, product or service represented within our publication or on our web site. The information provided is for informational, educational or entertainment purposes only.

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

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

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

& friendly Home Help

498

The Torringtones

On a day that threatened rain and grey skies, the Torringtones choir - used to the comfort of Torrington Town Hall - came out to play! Arriving at the town square adorned in their finest floral headwear and spring green colours, fitting in with the festive theme of the town, the choir assembled just as the sun came poking through the clouds ready to shine upon their performance.

Being May Fair weekend in Great Torrington, the town was truly alive with the sound of fantastic local music in all styles and genres, and the atmosphere was electric! As a choir that does not perform very often, I imagined nerves would be high and eyes wide, but as soon as they began they absorbed the crowd’s energy and shone! With the help of the band, they even got the crowds bopping along with them.

Singing the likes of Bowie, Blondie, Stevie Wonder and Bon Ivor, accompanied by the Bone Idols band, it seemed over in the blink of an eye, but they were ready to do it all over again. I can quite imagine this feeling was reflected throughout town, and it was down to the wonderful community that came and supported all the musical talent that took to the stages all over Torrington that day: dedicating their time to put on a show, bringing that community buzz that makes this town something special.

The incredible fancy dress efforts worn by many definitely helped bring the fun and laughter! It is a joy to see so many people out singing again after COVID scared many away, with two other choirs gracing the stages on Saturday (Ploughcapella and Teachers Rock) all with local members. It shows that group singing still has a place in many hearts! Credit to Toni Alexander and everyone involved in organising the day and proving that Torrington has talent, style and community. Thank you to everyone for making all the performers feel so welcome and loved!

The Torringtones choir was formed in 2019 by Rhiannon and Tom, and was planned as a one-off project, but the reception they received was beyond anything they could have imagined and thus the choir lives on. Ditching the traditional methods of SATB and sheet music, this choir thrives on its flexible structure and singing by ear approach making singing for the benefits of heart and head its priority Creating a safe space for those who may not have done anything like this before, with some diehard original members and newer members joining all the time, they are a wonderful friendly community ready to welcome you! For more info contact: thetorringtones@gmail.com

Rhiannon Wright, Peripatetic Singing & Piano tutor

Torrington Baptist Church

We will be having a Light Lunch on Tuesdays at 12.30pm until about 2.30pm. There will be a suggested donation of £2. Anyone looking for lunch and some good company is welcome.

Church Summer Fete

Save the date for our Church Summer Fete on July 27th 2024, running from 10am to 2 pm. Find us back in the garden at The Vicarage, if the weather is good, or at St Michael's Church should it be raining. Explore stalls offering crafts, books, cakes, plants, and more, and don't forget to grab one of our famous Holy Hot Dogs, before buying a raffle ticket! It's the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends, make new ones, and dive into the heart of our community. Come, join us for a day filled with fun and community spirit – see you there!

Torrington & District Community News & Events

What’s On at the Town Hall

May Fair was an incredible success, despite the weather trying its best to put us off. Torrington did what it does best and really got into the spirit of this ancient and important tradition. Hats off to the May Fair Committee, who worked tirelessly to ensure this was a spectacular celebration for the whole community.

Carnival was a stunning success, music pouring out of every venue, fabulous costumes and an atmosphere of absolute fun. Well done to Toni Alexander whose hard work brought out the best in this creative town.

Thank you to everyone who came to the Tavern at the Town Hall, with special thanks to Jim and his team from the Globe in Beaford who brought us delicious ales and beverages. Thank you also to the innovative and imaginative members of Knit and Natter, who once again produced a great window display. We are always proud of our wonderful building and the part it plays at May Fair. We welcomed the Mayor and his guests for the Proclamation, as well as the Town Council and VIPs.

The next civic event is the Mayor’s Introduction Service on 22nd May, when our Mayor Cllr Doug Smith will be formally completing his term of office and handing over to Cllr Phil Cloke. We wish him and his consort a very happy and rewarding year.

Other News…

Boogie in the Bunker Saturday 8th June 7pm

Excitement is mounting for our D-Day commemoration dance. Your ticket will entitle you to a vintage cocktail and access to our wartime buffet in the NAFFI, and there will be a raffle and prizes. Music is provided by DJ - The Sultan of Swing and The Hummingbirds, for a night of nostalgic, swinging fun. 40s fancy dress optional but appreciated. Veterans past and present have free entrance.

Our thanks to Michael and Anthea

Sussex from WMS, Torrington Freemasons and Langden Estates for their generous donations. Tickets are going fast and are available through Golden Days Vintage in the Pannier Market, or by calling 07793 241 555. Swing Dancing

Swing Dancing is becoming very popular, and we are very lucky to have Neil and Kerry from Step into Swingtime at the Town Hall, teaching us to swing in style! The classes are informal and fun where everyone is warmly welcomed. No experience required. The next 4-week beginners’ course begins on Tuesday 2nd July Call 07722 321 838 for more details. The English Psychic Company

Last reminder to get your tickets for this popular event on 14th June. Previous date a sell out! A delicious two-course meal, alongside readings from this renowned company. Starts at 7.30pm, ring Lorna to book on 07788 756 773. Beeline Training by Learn Devon

A further five sessions of this digital training course recommences on 11th June 9.30-11.30am. Please contact Learn Devon 01237 472462 or email bideford@learndevon.co.uk, for more information on a whole range of adult courses they offer.

Hiring the Town Hall

The Town Hall lends itself to all types of events, from beautiful, stylish weddings to fun parties for any occasion. Why not hold your celebration with us? You’ll be well looked after, and we will ensure your event runs smoothly and is all you want it to be, and we have a full catering kitchen and a fully-staffed bar. Contact 07944 639 739 or admin@ greattorrington-townhall.org for further details.

Remembering D-Day

Dear Editor

Just a note for congratulations, and to say how pleased I am to see that people are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings. I am so pleased, as we really should commemorate these occasions. I am 99 now. I served for 4.5 years in the women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service and, because of my age, I actually lived through those times. I remember D-Day very well. I was stationed at Aldershot and walked into the town on the evening of the 4th June. D-Day should have been the 5th, but it was postponed because bad weather was expected. If you went over on the 6th June, that was ‘D-Day 6’. My husband worked on tanks, and he was on ‘D-Day 6’. He took a tank over, made his way back again, and then took another, etc., etc.

He survived the ‘Italian assault’ and D-Day 6. He never said much, just that it was ‘dreadful’.

So, I am with you when you celebrate the 80th anniversary. The atmosphere in Aldershot was really strange: all military just very quiet and waiting to go over! The streets and side roads of the town were full of armoured vehicles, just waiting their turn.

Thank you for your interest.

Adrienne Winkley Umberleigh

Library News

Craft with Chris – Elmer Day!

Join us to celebrate Elmer the Elephant’s 35th birthday! Children and their grownups can join our volunteer Chris to make their very own Elmers on Saturday 25th May, 10.30am-12pm.

from you!

All proceeds go towards the upkeep and maintenance of the Town Hall. 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

We will also have Elmer colouring sheets, Elmer games and an Elmer birthday card to make. Dress up in your brightest colours for the morning! Donations for materials appreciated. Tree Clay Faces We will be giving the trees in the

Castle Community Gardens clay faces on Friday 31st May, 10.30am-12pm. Using natural air-drying clay, children can create gargoyle-like faces and adorn them with foliage found around the area. Ages 4 years and above. We will be under cover if the weather is wet. Booking is essential as places are limited. £2 per child. Please book in the library in person or by phone/email. Contact details below.

Author Event Liz Shakespeare – My Writing Life Thursday June 13th 7pm for 7.30pm start in the library.

We are delighted that Liz will be here to tell us how she researches her stories, which are all set in Devon. She will describe the process of writing and publishing them, along with giving readings from some of her books. Liz draws her inspiration from the people, the history and the landscapes of North Devon. In the last 30 years she has written seven books, bringing to life the stories from the past that she finds in old newspapers, on gravestones and in parish records. Her most recent, ‘The Ordeal of Miss Lucy Jones’, is set in Torrington.

Join us for a glass of wine or soft drink in the Secret Memorial Garden from 7pm before we settle down for her talk at 7.30pm. Tickets £6 per person. Booking essential.

NEW! Craft Club

Following the popularity of our craft sessions over the winter, we have started a fortnightly craft club for adults. It takes place on Thursdays, 1.303.30pm. Bring along your projects to share with others whilst enjoying light refreshments. We are also going to have demonstrations on occasions, details to follow on our Facebook page @torringtonlibrary. £1.50 per session to cover costs.

This month’s dates are: 6th and 20th June. For further information please contact us.

Home Education Social Club

We are thinking of starting up a monthly event for adults and children/ young people involved with home education. If this is something you would be interested in, we would love to hear

One 2 One IT support Tablet, laptop or smartphone problems to solve? Our volunteer Perry is here to offer 1-2-1 support every other Thursday morning (by appointment only). He has been helping people with digital problems for a number of years now and is always happy to give instruction on any issues you are having with IT. Why not come along, enjoy a coffee, and see if he can help you?

Please call: 01805 622107 to book. Walk and Talk in Torrington Join our regular Walk & Talk every Thursday, for a gentle walk followed by a cuppa. New members are most welcome, to join this friendly groupplease 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) 10.3011am. 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.

Lego Club

Our fortnightly Lego Club takes place in the Children’s Library on Saturday 1st, 15th and 29th June, 10.30am-12pm. Come along and get creative! For up-to-date information on events listing 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 at your local library. Please refer to our website: www. librariesunlimited.org.uk for up-to-date information on all our services. Please contact us by emailing torrington. library@librariesunlimited.org.uk or telephoning 01805 622107. Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092 Librariesunlimited.org.uk

Torrington & District Community News & Events

Great Torrington Commons

OEXPERIENCED MECHANIC REQUIRED

J. E. Stacey & Co. Ltd is an Independent Builder & Civil Engineering Contractor based in Holsworthy, established in 1959

We are looking for an experienced Mechanic to take charge of the maintenance and servicing of our fleet of transit vans, company cars and small plant, including mini diggers & forklifts.

You will need to be able to work well alone and as part of a team, have good initiative and time management skills and be self-motivated.

You will be working in our own, fully equipped garage, using our own diagnostics machine, specialist tools and tyre changing equipment. You will also have excellent support from our existing administrative staff and supply chains If you feel you have the right skills for this role, please email your CV to: info@jestacey.com or send to: J. E. Stacey & Co. Ltd, Inceworth Building Works, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 6BD

ur car boot sales are in full swing now, and we have been getting lots of stalls each Sunday. This year I have noticed more plants sellers than before: you can buy plants at bargain prices and they are all grown locally. The car boot sales run until the last Sunday in September; sellers can arrive from 7am and the cost is cars £7 and vans £12 - this is the same price as the last three years. Buyers can come along from 8am. The hot food van will be there of course and Hockings Ice Cream will arrive about 11am. We, of course, will have our own stall selling books, records, maps, CDs, DVDs and hundreds of children’s books. The DVDs and children’s books are all 50p each and everything else is £1 each or 6 for £5.

The Dartington Crystal shop has now raised £3,200, and we can only hope that with the spring and summer months ahead, that this amount should rise considerably.

I would like to thank everyone who has donated books, CDs, DVDs, records, cassettes, jigsaws and Lego to us; we have also received foreign coins and lots of maps. The Dartington Crystal shop will be selling books only, and all the other items will be sold from our car boot stall.

You can drop off items in the shop or you can contact me, Andrew Giles, on 07956 366 390 to either drop off at my home or arrange for me to collect them from you. We are so grateful to Dartington Crystal for letting us use the space; they have told me that the shop and café have been busier due to the amount of local people that are going there.

Webbers are continuing to sell our brand new Teddy bears, 30 bears have found new homes so far. You can also buy them from the Tarka Valley Railway shop on any Thursday and one Saturday per month. They would make a great birthday present at only £5 each.

The Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group continues to grow with more members signing up each week. 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 the website 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 me at 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 them.

Andrew Giles, Torrington Commons Conservators Vice-Chair

Transforming Your Inner Critic into Your Inner Coach: A Path to Empowerment

Do you find yourself caught in a relentless cycle of self-doubt and criticism? Is that inner voice constantly whispering that “you're not good enough”, “smart enough”, or “capable enough”? Welcome to the realm of the inner critic, a persistent presence that can sabotage your confidence and hinder your growth. This critical voice could be transformed into a source of empowerment and motivation, so it's time to turn your inner critic into your inner coach.

What exactly is the inner critic? It's that nagging internal dialogue that feeds us negative messages about ourselves.

“You're lazy.” “You'll never succeed.”

“You're not worthy.” These messages, stem from a place of perceived protection. The inner critic believes it's shielding us from shame, failure, and rejection by pointing out our flaws and weaknesses before anyone else can. However, if we allow it to dominate our thoughts, it can paralyse us with fear and self-doubt, preventing us from taking risks and pursuing our goals.

There are three common triggers that can amplify the voice of our inner critic:

1. Emotional turmoil: During times of heightened emotion our inner critic tends to become louder and more insistent. It thrives on uncertainty and vulnerability, using our emotions as fuel for its destructive narrative.

2. Limiting beliefs: Deep-seated beliefs like “I'm not good enough” or “I can't trust anyone” reinforce the agenda of self-preservation. These beliefs create barriers to growth, making it difficult to embrace mistakes, seek help, or handle criticism constructively.

The Whole Jar

We are based in the traditional Pannier Market in the heart of Great Torrington.

Our speciality is local products from Devon & Cornwall: cheeses, preserves, pates, crackers & so much more.

We also have a wonderful selection of homemade goods provided by @Sonu’s Kitchen: Indian pakoras, samosas, sausage rolls, feta, & spinach slice.

Look out for added items for your lunches & weekend treats. Gluten free options will also be available soon.

If you would like to order anything do pop in & see us.

Email: hello@thewholejar.co.uk • Tel: 07398182659

Don’t forget our hamper service for birthdays, special occasions, & any other events.

Torrington Employees Need More than a Pay Rise

An HR expert in Torrington says that if employers want to keep hold of their best employees, they need to consider using more than a pay rise as an incentive.

In reality, small pay rises or unobtainable bonus schemes aren’t effective motivators and can actually have the opposite effect on employees. Instead, employers need to look at rewards that are intrinsic motivators, such as recognition, learning and development, and additional responsibilities.

Tracy Madgwick owns and runs Crafnant HR based near Torrington. She said, “Contrary to belief, money isn’t the best motivator - especially for individuals who are career focused.

“What’s more important to these employees is feeling valued, having their accomplishments recognised, and creating a path that helps them reach their goals.

“Companies that take the time to learn more about these motivators in their employees often find that their teams are more engaged, more loyal, and far more productive.”

Tracy also points out that small rewards can have a big impact on employee motivation and job satisfaction too.

She said: “Little things can have the same effect as a grand gesture, too. For example, giving a box of chocolates as thanks to an employee who has really impressed a client will demonstrate that you’ve noticed their actions and value their work.

“And helping an employee to work towards their career goals with additional learning and development opportunities will show how invested you are, and that you hope to have this employee working with you for years to come.

“It all helps an employee feel valued, appreciated, and demonstrates that you’re as committed to them as they are to you.”

“These are all things that are low cost to you, but make a big impression on your people.”

Tracy added: “In the current climate where budgets are often smaller, rewards like these can make a huge difference on your ability to retain your best people, which is another big bonus!”

Tracy is available to assist local employers to improve their reward systems, develop their teams, and retain their people for longer.

You can contact her at tracy@crafnanthr.co.uk or call 07899 665 506.

3. Exhaustion: When we're physically and mentally depleted, our inner critic often takes centre stage. It capitalises on our fatigue, bombarding us with negative self-talk and convincing us that we're incompetent or hopeless. But here's the good news: You have the power to shift the narrative and reclaim control over your inner dialogue. You can cultivate a compassionate inner coach -one that nurtures selfworth, fosters empowering beliefs, and encourages personal growth. Imagine quieting that critical voice and tapping into a wellspring of selfconfidence and resilience. Embrace challenges with courage and seize opportunities for growth with enthusiasm. If your inner critic is holding you back from living your life to the fullest, it's time

Country Ways Open Day – Everyone Welcome!

The Country Ways family would like to invite everyone to our Open Day and the official opening of our new event space, The Highland Barn, on Saturday 29th June 2024 from 11am, with free admission all day!

Country Ways is a family run wedding, events and holiday cottages business in High Bickington, North Devon.

The Country Ways family has made a huge investment in the business since they arrived, and have just finished their brand new barn, nestled in the North Devon Countryside between High Bickington and Torrington.

The combination of the amazing setting, the little village of six cottages sleeping 28 guests, and the choice of two beautiful barns for intimate or larger gatherings, set in 42 acres with stunning views, makes this a spectacular and unique venue, which can host weddings, events, corporate gatherings, retreats, holidays and so much more.

North Devon’s Member of Parliament and our local Councillor will be cutting the ribbon at 12pm, with canapés and Pimms. Free admittance all day, and proceeds from the day will be donated to the Devon Air Ambulance.

The Terrace Bar will be open all day from 11am till late. Popcorn and candy floss all day. Fresh homemade pizzas will be available from 1pm. Burgers and chips from 7pm. Live music from Meg Scoins from 11.30am; The Bicycle Repair Men at 3pm and disco from 7pm.

Meet Holly our baby Highland cow, have a game of pool or take a woodland walk. “Paw guests” are also welcome. Please come and meet the Country Ways family and see all that Country Ways has to offer.

Country Ways, Little Knowle Farm, High Bickington, EX37 9BJ

Green Lantern Café – Under New Ownership!

After years and years of dreaming to open my own small baguette shop, the opportunity came for me to purchase a business as a going concern. I knew this was going to be a huge commitment, but ploughed my money, time and energy into this adventure.

Tarka Digital –

What can we do for you?

Tarka Digital, although only coming into existence in 2022, has been dealing with businesses throughout the UK for over 30 years. Leaving the PC world behind now and concentrating on telecoms, CCTV, design, sign and print, Tarka is able to offer a high level in knowledge in these products, having worked with them for the past 30 years.

Professional sound and lighting is a new product line we are trying, due to a keenness in theatre and cinema, along with supporting local bands with high quality, good value equipment. We are forever adding products to our website, but if there is something you don’t see on there yet, feel free to send us a message or reach out and call us. Why not sign up to our newsletter (only sent out once a month) newsletter@tarkadigital.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you!

to take action. Reach out and schedule a free 30-minute nurturing call to explore how you can transform your inner critic into your greatest ally. Together, we'll uncover strategies to silence the negativity, cultivate self-compassion, and unleash your full potential. Don't let your inner critic dictate your destiny any longer. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and empowerment, and let your inner coach guide you toward a life of joy, fulfilment, and abundance. Samantha Hardwick www. samanthahardwick.com.

My husband has been my rock, and after 11 days of cleaning, decorating and sorting furniture the shop opened on 15th April. My dream is now a reality, I go to work and come home smiling. I have had great support from customers and brilliant feedback. I hope to see many more customers in the coming months. Come and have a look at our revamped Green Lantern Café and baguette bar!

Lorraine

RICHARD HEYWOOD ELECTRICAL

&

Blackberry Farm Shop

* Open 7 days a week, & s�ll producing our home cooked food

* Please order in advance & use our fully contactless collec�on or delivery service.

* Product range: now includes general groceries, household items, toiletries beer, wines & spirits.

* Delivery service now reaches out to those who are isolated or wan�ng to stay at home.

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

Rolle Canal Society Guided Walk

Core Rehabilitation & Massage

We can help you with:

*Pelvic floor issues/women’s health

*Core Rehabilitation for chronic muscular pain or weakness

*Pilates & Hypopressives

*Massage & Mobility

For more information or to book please contact:

07939 656 082

lizzie@completecorecontrol.com www.completecorecontrolandfitmummy.co.uk

A J Installations

Alistair McMillan specialising in

Aerial, Satellite and TV Installations

Got equipment you can’t use properly? We offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service

With over 35 years’ experience in the North Devon area Phone Ali on 01805 804626 or 0797 781 00 88

Sunday 9th June Rosemoor Basin, Darkham Weir & Lime Kilns

This walk will be led by Michael Elliott. Starting from the end of the new extended car park at RHS Rosemoor Gardens, it’s an opportunity to walk beyond the public gardens through attractive woodland to Darkham Weir on the River Torridge, from where the waters to feed the Rolle Canal were taken. Then follow the Mill Leat to the recently cleared Canal Basin, effectively the terminus of the Rolle Canal. Here the old lime kilns can be seen as well as the foundations of a tucking mill.

The income from the small charge of £2 per person on the guided walks makes a valuable contribution to the Society's work in improving access along the canal and providing interpretation of the major features.

RHS Rosemoor operates a strict no-dogs policy. The length of the walk is about 2.5 miles. Meet at 2:30pm on Sunday 9th June at the far end of the main RHS Rosemoor car park.

Torrington in Bloom

Work continues to be undertaken to keep the parks, planters, borders and gardens in Torrington looking neat and tidy, and although I am writing this article at the beginning of May, there is still a lot of wet weather about, which means there are delays in planting. Not only that, but some plants have decided they do not like sitting in soggy ground for the best part of six months and have given up the fight. So, there are a few gaps here and there, which we are gradually replanting.

We are still hoping to have some gardens open to the public this month, but at the time of writing I can’t confirm if we have enough; our next meeting falls after the cut-off date for June Crier. I believe at present there are four – another four would be ideal. Your garden does not have to be perfect, but with enough interest for people to linger for a while enjoying the scene. Neither does your garden have to be large, and a front garden visible from the path will be fine. Even a show of planted containers and/or baskets makes an interesting subject, especially if something ‘different’ is included, such as vegetables and herbs. Don’t forget, the Rotary this year will be supporting the Torrington Food Bank, so ticket money will be donated to their funds.

Cherry Hammon

01805 625788 (leave a message if no answer)

Torrington Senior Citizens Group

In March we held our AGM for 2024. We have kept our prices the same: £6 membership; £10 member trips; £15 for guests.

Our programme of events is as follows:

Tuesday 18th June - Brixham

Tuesday 16th July - Minehead

Tuesday 17th September - Dartmouth

Tuesday 12th November - Truro

Christmas lunch Saturday 30th November at Langtree Village Hall. Our pamphlet for the year has been widely distributed. We are always keen to welcome new members to our group. Further info from Beryl 07870 812 744; John 07986 586 799 or Jax 07932 023 606.

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café is held on the second Saturday of the month 10am1pm. 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!

From Your County Councillor…

Acommon issues that we face in the parts of Devon we represent.

s I am writing this article immediately after May Fair, I would like to thank everyone who was involved in any way in helping to organise and run this year’s festivities. It is a great privilege to be able to take part in the May Fair traditions as the Town’s County Councillor, and in an ever changing and difficult world, it is a testament to the strength of our community in Torrington that we are able to pull off a major event like May Fair (barring pandemics) year after year. A big, big thank you to all the volunteers and officials who worked so hard to make this great event possible, and well done to everyone who took part. Even the rain, thankfully, stayed away for the majority of the May Fair weekend! As ever, it has been a busy time at the County Council and there are a number of developments I would like to update readers on.

First, as you will probably have seen in the local news, the Leader of the County Council, Cllr John Hart, will be retiring after 15 years as Leader. John has been one of the longest serving Local Government Leaders in the Country and his dedication has been second to none. He has been an invaluable source of support to me and I have learned a great many things from him. Cllr Hart will be standing down at the County Council’s Annual General Meeting when, barring anything unexpected happening, he will be appointed the next Chairman of the Council and will become the new ‘Civic’ head of the Council.

His replacement as Leader is likely to be Cllr James McInnes, who is the current Deputy Leader and ward member for the neighbouring division of Hatherleigh and Chagford. The new Deputy Leader is likely to be Cllr Andrea Davis, ward member for Combe Martin Rural and current Cabinet Member for the Environment, Infrastructure and Transport. Both are very experienced Councillors and I am looking forward to working with them on tackling the many

As we head into a new ‘municipal’ year I am pleased to report that the County Council was able break even for the financial year just ended, coming in with a small underspend. I cannot stress enough what a strong achievement this is, given the difficult financial climate many other local authorities, including some near neighbours, have found themselves in.

While we are not facing a ‘financial emergency’ like our neighbours in Somerset, it is crucial that we do not become complacent and that we continue to drive forward with modernising the Council, both internally with its structures and processes, and externally – looking at how services can be delivered differently and more effectively.

One of the services I take a close look at, and I know many of the readers of the Crier do, is Highways. A major piece of work that has now started is looking at the future delivery of the Council’s highways maintenance contract. Although the current contract still has over two years to run, a huge amount of work will need to take place between now and then to ensure whatever the future model is – whether it is taking the entire contract back in house, creating a Council-owned arm’s length company, or continuing as is – that we get the right solution that works best for our residents.

This work is still in the early stages and I will keep readers informed of any developments, however alongside this, the County Council is continuing to trial new methods and techniques of road repair: with the use of the ‘Dragon Patcher’ and ‘Elastomac’ (a new recycled material for pothole repairs which binds itself to the road surface and should prevent water ingress), and a new ‘recycling’ retread/resurfacing treatment. All three of these treatments have been put to use in Torrington Rural and will be again this coming summer. Mostly, I am pleased to report the new treatments have been successful. I have seen some major improvements to some of the roads which have been dragon patched for example. The Elastomac repairs have also worked well and the feedback I’ve

had on the ‘recycling retread’ schemes carried out in Roborough and St Giles in the Wood have also been positive. Nonetheless, sometimes with a new treatment it won’t work as well as we would have liked, which can in turn be hugely frustrating, but I would rather we actually tried something rather than do nothing or have to wait for a lot longer, years even, for a full resurfacing scheme for example. When a new treatment doesn’t work, the Council will look to carry out remedial works and if the initial fault was with the contractor then this will be done at the contractor’s expense and not the Council’s.

Nevertheless, while we are in a situation where money remains very restricted for Highways, I would rather we trialled a new treatment to improve a road’s condition than either see it being unable to secure funding for resurfacing or worse, do nothing.

Nonetheless, although funding for highways remains tight, I am extremely pleased to report that a further £10 million of funding for Highways has been approved for this financial year. Thanks to the County Council’s prudent financial management in balancing its budget for the last two years and disposing of, or repurposing of, redundant buildings, the Council has been able to free up this additional funding and re-invest it directly into Highways.

The majority of this new funding will be used for ‘serviceability patching’, which is resurfacing repairs covering partial or full sections of the carriageway. I have already been out and about in Torrington Rural identifying potential sites with my Neighbourhood Highways Officer, and you can rest assured I will be sending him a lot of requests through!

Although the state of the Highway network remains challenging, as we now come in the warmer summer months I am expecting to see a lot more repair work going on from resurfacing, patching, dragon patching and serviceability patching.

As ever, if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise with me you can contact me on Facebook facebook.com/ cllrsaywell, ring 07886 446 560 or email andrew.saywell@devon.gov.uk.

Hi there, Fabulous Freddie checking in with all the recent news.

This month has been so very busy with dogs in and out! Our new motto for the rescue is ‘Stressful but Successful!’ During April no less than six dogs came to us and are now settled in their new forever loving homes. Unfortunately, most of the dogs that we are being asked to help are coming to us without up-todate vaccinations and are entire. This is putting such a strain on the resources of the rescue with vet charges being so high. So far in April alone the vet bill was in excess of £2800! Thankfully our summer fundraising events are soon to start kicking off: at Braunton on 27th May and quickly followed by Castle Hill, Filleigh on 2nd June – hopefully we will see lots of you there. I am actually in practice, as of course the Fun Day at the Castle Hill show includes a Family Fun Run. The course is only 3km and you can walk or run, with or without your woof but it does give you the chance to see the beautiful gardens. Tickets for the show can be purchased in advance from castlehilldevon.co.uk/charity-dog-show/. Lots to do and see for everyone and of course I will be there with Aunty Lynne. I mustn’t forget to mention our Torrington Show on 20th July and there is

Open for takeaway & eat-in

Monday 5-9pm

Tuesday to Saturday 12-2pm, 5-9pm

Open on Bank Holidays

NEW MENU AVAILABLE!

Phone orders welcome!

still room for any ‘crafters’ who may want a stall – just email rpage753@gmail.com and she will send you all the details. Many of you will know that our onsite kennels closed last year, and that we have been operating the rescue on a ‘home to home’ and foster basis, which has been working very well. However, every rescue does need a backup for those dogs that are really in danger of being put to sleep, and for the odd occasion when a rehomed dog has to come back to us and the original owner is not in a position to take the dog

back. So, some other great news for the rescue is that our volunteers have been working extremely hard and have completed the groundworks for our new thermal kennel, which will be arriving on 20th June. Our thanks have to go to them and also to our volunteer (who didn’t want to be named) for allowing the kennel to be placed on their property. We are naming the kennel ‘The Armstrong Unit’ after the kind donation received to purchase the kennel. So what with the upcoming shows and the placement of the kennel, it looks like June is going to be a very busy month for the rescue!

Short and sweet this month as so busy, but I will be back next month with a bumper update. So in the meantime have a great June (hopefully a sunny one).

Licks & Woofs, Freddie

Beaford Village Hall

D-day celebration on 6th June from 7pm. Claire playing the Last Post on her bugle, followed by lighting our beacon by fuse and gunpowder at 9.15pm. A real family event with BBQ, NAAFI and bar.

Taffs Fish & Chips shop providing quality fish & chips since 1958. Thank you for your continued support.

Rolle Canal Report by Adrian Wills

What happened to the gates?

Regular users of the Tarka Trail, travelling between the tunnel at Landcross and the Weare Giffard road junction, may have noticed that the inner lock gates at Sea Lock are no longer in position.

They have been lifted out of the lock chamber and laid on the wharf side.

Pairs of gates at either end of the lock chamber were essential for containing and maintaining water levels within Lord Rolle’s Canal. When restorative work began in the early 2000s on the lock chamber, there were no remnants of the original gates.

The gates recently removed from the lock chamber were donated nearly 20 years ago by British Waterways (today Canal and Rivers Trust). Even at that time they were well past their useful working life and required a great deal of work to repair them and make them fit. Since being substitutes, they were never watertight so only held water for the length of time that tides were high.

Due to the fact that the timbers of the gates were, at times, saturated and alternately bone-dry, tremendous stress and strains were created, eventually warping and opening cracks in them.

Finally, the headstock (where the top of the gate is hinged against the wall), of the inner, riverside gate conceded defeat to the passage of time and snapped. Being no longer safe to operate, it was decided to wedge it and its partner together in their closed position, until a solution to the problem could be found.

Whilst it is possible to repair the gates, the time and effort required is considered impractical and not cost effective.

New replacement gates are the most obvious choice to ensure the longevity of this site and preserve its heritage, but they are likely to be astronomically expensive. The frames of the gates were originally constructed from very large baulks of oak, clad in larch. Suitable sized pieces of oak cannot be sourced from this country and would have to be

imported.

An alternate form of construction is modular steel: a kind of giant ‘Meccano’ kit, which can be assembled on site. This system has been used quite extensively in this country, especially on some of the Welsh waterways and is common on the continent.

Steel modular gates are likely to be no cheaper to construct than wooden ones, but have a number of advantages; in particular their life-span which is generally at least twice, if not three times, as long as wooden ones, i.e. 100 years as opposed to 20-25 years.

Whichever method of construction is ultimately decided on, precise, engineering drawings have to be produced in order to get costs for their replacements. The initial stage in this process necessitated lifting the gates out.

both pairs of gates is estimated (at the moment) to be around £500,000, which is a huge amount of money and is only realisable through grant funding. But then what value do we place on conserving and preserving our heritage?

Enquiries have been made of engineers capable of producing such drawings, and to date, the cheapest quote from a not-for-profit engineering company specializing in canal restoration has come in at £6,500. Construction and installation of the gates is likely to be in excess of £200,000!

This figure is, of course, only for the inner pair of gates. The outer pair will cost considerably more, since whilst they are the same width as the inners, they are approximately two metres deeper.

The anticipated costs of replacing

The site of Sea Lock is privately owned, however the owners say that whilst they strive to maintain and restore it as much as possible, they are only custodians of it. They are only too pleased to show the site to interested parties or individuals by prior arrangement.

If you or any organisation/society wish to visit the site and have a guided walk around it, then please contact: www. rollecanalsociety.org or phone 07377 904 068.

Mike Harper

Is Taddiport part of Torrington?

Taddiport, which lies in the valley of the River Torridge below Great Torrington, is, strictly speaking, in the parish of Little Torrington which is out of sight over the hill to the south. Between the fourteenth and the eighteenth century it was known variously as Taddy-Ford, Addiport, Taddyporte or Taddypitte. 'Taddy' from the Old English 'Taddige' means 'toad' and was thought to have some reference to the scaly skin of the lepers who lived in the village at the Magdalen Hospital, or there may have been toads coming up from the river, thus 'Toadpit'. It tends to be a damp place at the foot of two steep hills, often filled with early morning mist, and has been flooded badly on occasions.

Taddiport, or Town Bridge as it was originally known, was first mentioned in documents from the early fourteenth century and was probably built during the previous century. Before that people crossed the river by a fording-place known as 'Fordham'. The bridge was a focal point of several routes: Barnstaple to Plymouth, Torrington to the west side of Bideford, the route to Hartland, and the northerly route to Cornwall. Taddiport and Rothern Bridge were the only two bridges over the Torridge connecting Torrington to the outside world until New Bridge at Town Mills was built in 1843 and Rolle Bridge was constructed down by the station in 1928, when Rothern Bridge could no longer cope with the heavy traffic that used it. Before these

new bridges were built, the main road out of Torrington to the south passed through the village of Taddiport. At different periods, the bridge has been used by pack-horses carrying clay, carts collecting lime or coal from the canal boats or, later, bringing milk to Sandford's dairy, wagons carrying timber, and many other conveyances. It is still a popular shortcut, despite the steep, narrow lane up Dick Baker's Hill. The little chapel of St Mary Magdalen still retains traces of its early origin as the chapel for the leper hospital which stood nearby. At the west end is a small embattled tower, measuring 5ft (1m 50) square. The nave is only 30ft (just over 9m) long and there is seating in the church for about 40 people. The south doorway is not the original one, which was further to the west by the font and only 5ft high. The stained glass south window commemorating the leper hospital was created by Chris Sing in 1972. Richly coloured in greens, browns, yellows and blues, it depicts lepers working in the fields, lying ill in bed, walking in pairs with heads bowed, and

kneeling before a priest being blessed. Around the edge it reads: 'Remember the lepers who lived and worshipped here and all who befriended them in the 15, 16 and 17 Century of our Lord.' Within living memory, much of the village was thatched. There was a pound, a saw-pit, smithy, inn, carpenter's shop, infants' school (which closed in 1901 and became the village hall) and chapel. The cottages had 'hatches' (halfdoors) over which residents would lean and chat to their neighbours. Part of an old shop front survives advertising that it was licensed to sell tea, coffee, tobacco, pepper and snuff. The last place to close was the Post Office and shop in around 1995.

Moira Brewer

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity Avery-Cramp Education Bursary

Save ££££’s on high street installation

Qualified, Experienced, Reliable & Insured

We supply trade price, ready assembled, Howdens kitchens

Free design & estimates

12 months workmanship guarantee www.oakwellkitchens.co.uk

Mayor’s Diary

Another hectic month has passed. Helen and I have represented the Town at many civic events, including church services for the Chairs of North Devon District Council and Torridge District Council.

We enjoyed a trip to Bideford to watch their Regatta and on 10th September watched the spectacular Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, with visiting bands coming from all over the UK.

was at Hatherleigh Community Centre to see many of their residents receive Community Awards. This is similar to the awards we have in Torrington, which recognise people who have made a difference to their town.

We are delighted to announce that a new fund has been set up to support young people aged eighteen years or over, who currently live within the parish of Torrington and who are starting higher education, whether at university, college or via an apprenticeship. Applications are invited for the purchase of IT equipment, books, tools, instruments, and other expenses relating to the chosen course of study (excluding living costs).

Barnstaple Fair is always a wellsupported day, with all the “Chain Gang” out in force to celebrate the tradition of the Fair. The weather was kind as we walked around town, whilst the declaration of the opening of the Fair was read. Immediately after the formal part of the proceedings had finished, we dashed down to Newquay. It was time for Helen to put on a ‘posh frock’ for a reception celebrating the ‘South West in Bloom’ competition. We still had to wait until the following day to hear the results, and were proud and delighted when it was announced that the Torrington in Bloom team had won a Silver Gilt (last year it was silver). Thank you to the committee, traders and individuals who work so hard to enhance our surroundings in Great Torrington. We will soon have the opportunity of meeting the judges to find out how we can do even better – our next challenge is GOLD!!

It was lovely to at last welcome, and be involved with, the Induction of Father Lawrence MacLean. We hope he and his family will be very happy in our town, and the Church Fete at the Vicarage was a good opportunity for us all to meet them.

The Avery-Cramp Education Bursary will be worth up to one thousand pounds each year and has been made possible by two legacies given in memory of Miss Liz Avery and of Dr Harry Cramp MBE respectively. Application forms and more details about the bursary can be found: On our website - Torringtontownlands.org

Sir Duke here again – wow how quickly a month goes by! Well Autumn is definitely upon us and many of the rescue dogs are gaining their winter coats in readiness for the onset of Winter! We have been as busy as ever with three new dogs being taken in who were due to be put to sleep – I don’t really know why as they are lovely and very friendly – they even like children!

Bruno, our 12-month-old puppy that needs an eye operation, is still bouncing around and we are well on our way to raising the £3,000 needed for his operation.

On our Facebook page (Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity) Or by emailing admin@townlands.org.uk

Applications for the 2024 bursaries must be received by 30th June 2024 and bursaries will be paid by 30th September 2024. The decisions made by the trustees will be final.

The Co-op and Town Traders arranged a Harvest Festival in the Pannier Market on the 11th September. This was the first one organised and I think it will become a regular event on the Torrington calendar. Finally, we tried to attend as many Macmillan coffee mornings as possible and in fact ended up going to five! This is a wonderful charity and it‘s not surprising that it’s so well supported. After all those coffees we went to the Soap Kitchen shop to see Lesley and Richard Phillips who celebrated ten years of business on 30th September. Congratulations to you both.

The Trustees of the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity

We have been very fortunate to receive two legacies, which will fund our new annual education bursaries.

Our last out-of-town engagement

I look forward to hearing from you if you have an event or anniversary you want to tell me about – just call me 01805 625662, or our secretary, Pauline at the Council offices on 01805 626135.

Councillor Richard Rumbold

Town Mayor

We have been chosen as one of three charities to participate in a fantastic scheme run by Animal Friends Insurance. Basically the charity that receives the most votes gets a whopping £5,000. So come on all you Facebook fans, please vote for us, and pass the word around to all your friends and family. It is simple to vote, and costs nothing. Just go to: www.facebook.com/feelgoodpark and on the left-hand menu you will see ‘Vote for Charity’. Click this and it will take you through to a page showing charities in the scheme. Then click on

One legacy was given in memory of Liz Avery, who chose to move to Torrington for a fresh start in life. An enthusiastic nature-lover, Liz relished walking her spaniel on the Commons. As a flautist, she enjoyed local musical events and joined the Torrington and Monkleigh bellringers. Keen to give something back to her new community, Liz volunteered for several local charities and made new friendships which were sadly cut short by her terminal illness.

The second legacy was given in memory of Dr Harry Cramp MBE, husband of Cynthia, father of their eight children and a popular GP in Torrington. Harry was committed to making our town the best it could be, as a councillor and trustee of the Town and Lands Charity. He served three terms as mayor of Torrington and was a leading light in many initiatives including the Community Development Trust, the ‘Genesis’ Project, the Men’s Shed, the ‘Torrington Together’ Project and in the restoration of the town hall. Harry was made an honorary freeman of Torrington and awarded his MBE for services to our local community.

We offer our sincere thanks to the families of Liz Avery and Dr Harry Cramp. The Trustees of the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

From Your Mayor…

Well, so much has happened since I last wrote that I hardly know where to begin. What a busy month May has been.

As Mayor Elect, I was pleased to be involved with two of our town’s annual sporting events.

The end of April saw the Swimming Club’s annual gala take place. It was a joy to see so many young people involved in friendly competition, and to witness the skills and sportsmanship shown towards each other was a credit to all participants. After a very close competition, the winners, the White team, were victorious by a mere two points over the Red team. A huge ‘thank you’ to all the coaches and organisers for making this event such a success. Similarly, this year’s Round the Tree Race proved to be equally exciting! As someone who has on a couple of occasions completed it, albeit some time ago, I know what a hard and

challenging course this is.

But as usual most runners finished with smiles on their faces, no matter what their times were. It was also fantastic to see so many local people and fun runners taking part, alongside the most talented club runners. The sportsmanship and support from a large crowd of spectators made it an evening to remember.

Thanks must go to Peter Coates, TAAC’s Chair and event organiser, and the club members who either ran or marshalled the event.

There were of course two other highly successful and important events which must be mentioned!

Wasn’t our May Fair brilliant? The early morning rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of those taking part!

The May Queen, Effie Hill, and her entourage looked fantastic in their Harry Potter themed outfits. The may pole dances by both Years 5 and 6 from Bluecoat School were completed without putting a foot wrong. And despite some little ones shivering with the cold,

they continued to smile throughout the morning. When you add to this the stirring performance (as always) by Torrington Silver Band, and the riotous performance by our Cavaliers throughout the day, you can see why our May Fair celebrations are the envy of many other local (and I believe national) councils. If that wasn’t enough, we had our fantastic Fancy Dress Music Festival! I think that the number of people taking part and the superb range of fancy dress costumes exceeded everyone’s expectations. A wonderful time was clearly had by all.

As I have said before, these terrific events which we all enjoy, are only able to happen because of the incredibly hard work and commitment of a small and dedicated few! Therefore, a huge ‘thank you’ must be given to Keeley Allin and the May Fair/Carnival Committee. Thanks also to Toni Alexander for designing and making the wonderful May Fair costumes, and for co-ordinating the Fancy Dress Music Festival. Finally, thank you everyone for making Great Torrington such a wonderful town, I am very proud and honoured to have recently become your Mayor.

Phil Cloke

May Fair Day Special Guest

As well as the fabulous 2024 May Queen with her entourage and their families, we welcomed another special guest at the May Fair Proclamation and lunch on May 2nd 2024.

Our guest, Mrs Pat Martin, made most of the outfits for the May Queen and her entourage from 1969 until 1992. During the May Fair lunch there was a small selection of these outfits on display, and a handful of the people who loaned us their historic costumes came together for a photograph with Mrs Martin. Thank you to everyone who helped to make it a special day for Mrs Martin,

people were so happy to share their outfits and their May Fair stories.

Our thanks to: Andrea and Scott Magarotto, Mags Zaharia, Melissa Baker, Gwen Magarotto, Moira Brewer, Julie Steward (Shirley Smithson), Suzanne Dymond,

Mary Adams (Murray and Paul Clarke), Hannah Pettifer, Jenny Hedden, Louise Barton, Liz Harris, Sharon Lambert, and many thanks to Great Torrington Museum for the loan of the additional outfits and the mannequins.

Great Torrington Town Council News

Torrington Together

The summer meeting of Torrington Together will be held at Torridge Vale Social Club, South Street on Wednesday June 19th at 7pm.

May Fair - Thanks

Firstly, we would like to congratulate everyone on the May Fair and Carnival Committee for organising such an amazing event this year, there are very few volunteers on this committee, and they all worked extremely hard to deliver the fabulous weekend enjoyed so much by the whole community. May Fair Day was a great success despite the weather, and the Fancy Dress Music Festival was spectacular. Thank you from us all. There are also many people we would like to thank for their support with the Town Council elements of Mayfair 2024. Thank you to Dave Young and Ant Grills at Torrington Football Club, who kindly provided parking for the Mayors and guests this year, this meant that all of the spaces in Sydney House Car Park were available for free to members of the public, this was very much appreciated. Many thanks to Charlotte and her staff at Charlies@The Plough for the lunch and Brady Coysh for producing a slide show of past May Fairs to display during the lunch. Also, thanks to John Insull for giving us permission to use the photographs for this display. Thank you to Great Torrington Town & Community Hall for hosting the Proclamation ceremony. Thanks to the Cavaliers for volunteering to put up the bunting, and to firefighters at Torrington Fire Station for helping with a slight practical issue with the bunting. Finally thank you to the amazing children and teachers from Great Torrington C of E Bluecoat Primary School for performing their roles so well, despite the cold and the rain, 2024 was most definitely a May Fair to remember.

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

At each meeting there is always something new to learn and valuable information about local events, groups, and services. There is an opportunity to network in the interval and at the end of the meeting – if you think this would be a useful opportunity for your group or service, please do come along. Connecting people and information is the aim.

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.

It is easier for us to plan if people let us know they will be coming along, however don’t let this put you off. If you decide on the night to come along, we would be pleased to see you. However, speakers must be booked in advance.

Hoping to see lots of new people at our June meeting, June 19th 2024.

Window Dressing

Thank you to everyone who decorated their shop windows for the annual May Fair window dressing competition. Congratulations to the winners - 1st Lilian Rose Interiors; 2nd Dartington Crystal; 3rd Whiskers Pet Centre. Highly Commended: Knit & Natter - Great Torrington Town Hall. Well-done everyone.

Annual Meeting & The New Mayor For 2024/25

At the Annual Business Meeting, held on Thursday 9th May 2024, Cllr Phil Cloke was elected as Mayor of Great Torrington for 2024/2025, Ms Elizabeth Yates will be the Mayor’s Consort. Cllr Dave Parish was elected as the Deputy Mayor.

D Day 80 Commemorative Beacon

June 6th 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of D Day, the largest naval, air and land operation in history, implemented to bring peace to Europe in World War Two.

As part of the national programme of events there will be a Commemorative Beacon at the Rugby Club (Donnacroft/November bonfire site) and members of the community are invited to attend. The lighting of the beacon is scheduled for 9:15pm.

Torrington Silver Band will be entertaining everyone from 8-9pm at Torrington Rugby Club; they will then play the last post ahead of a minute’s silence and the Reveille, and the Mayor will read out the International Tribute, just before the lighting of the beacon.

8am – Proclamation by the Town Crier, Town Hall.

6:30pm – Ringing Out for Peace by Torrington Bell Ringers, St Michael & All Angels Church.

8-9 pm – Torrington Silver Band – Torrington Rugby Club.

9:15pm – Lighting of the Beacon & International Tribute.

Providing Help & Advice in our Local Community

Regular readers of these community columns will know that we help people with a vast array of problems. Many are finance related, especially since the increase in the cost of living has impacted on households across the area. People by and large do not know what benefits or financial assistance is available that they may be able to claim, and even if they think they may be able to get help, they often don’t know how to go about applying for it or are simply too proud to ask. Quite often, eligibility for certain benefits opens the door to other assistance and, in today’s world, the problems that people present to us are becoming increasingly complex.

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

We have specialist teams to advise on things like debt and energy, as well as help that is available to people with special needs, such as cancer or other life-limiting illnesses. We can help with housing problems and social needs and, if we can’t provide the help that is needed, we can refer people to other organisations that are more specialised in particular areas.

In our articles we have talked about shoddy workmanship, rights that people have when holidays don’t measure up, employment issues and what to be aware of when buying a car. We are here to listen and give free, impartial advice to anyone who needs it.

For us, the start of a new financial year is a time to reflect on what we have achieved in the previous one, in terms of the numbers of people we have helped, the problems we have advised on and the impact that has had. We are continually striving to improve our efficiencies and find more ways to help more people. This year we introduced a new email advice service for instance, and we are looking at ways to make getting advice more accessible: for example, by making more information available on our website.

We also understand that not everyone is computer savvy, and sometimes people just want to be able to talk on the telephone or in person. This is why we have an ongoing recruitment and training programme to grow our volunteer numbers. All our volunteers get full training and ongoing support, and volunteering with us can lead to paid employment opportunities. You don’t need to be an expert in any particular field, you just need to care and have a willingness to listen; our training and support will see you through the rest.

If meeting new people and helping within our local community appeals to you, please contact recruitment@citizensadvicetnmwd.org.uk

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.

Bideford & District Photographic Group

WFrom Your District Councillors…

inding up the formal business before getting our summer programme underway, the club announced the winners of our most prestigious competition of the season “The Masters”, judged by the highly-respected and liked Peter Fry from Barnstaple. The contest itself was hotly contested, with only three points covering the gold, silver and bronze awards. The high quality of the entries was reflected in the four pictures that received perfect marks: Judith Flacke in the Close Up/Macro category; David Shaw in the Creative category and Martin Stephenson picked up two for his images in the Landscape and Architecture categories. So when the dust settled it was Martin who took the gold award, Judith the silver and David the bronze. All entrants are to be congratulated on the superb images entered and for providing such a fascinating and inspiring evening of photographic art.

The AGM has also taken place and some new blood has been added to the committee, along with some old stagers. Sadly, Mac Chivers has stepped down and is leaving the club, as he is moving to Somerset. The Committee and members wish Mac well, and thank him for the huge amount of work he has done for the club, starting from the very first meeting he attended. He has always been happy to help and advise other members, especially with his vast technical knowledge. Now we are hoping for some fine weather as our summer programme is well under way.

Some upcoming trips:

Sunday 9th June - Exmoor Zoo

Tuesday 11th June – ever-popular trip to Hartland Quay

Tuesday 18th June - evening trip to Halsdon Nature Reserve

For full details please see the website for the comprehensive programme. Why not come along, meet the members and have a relaxing camera-exercising stroll. For further information email Tim sanderst99@gmail.com or enquiries@ bidefordcameraclub.co.uk, or visit bidefordcameraclub.co.uk.

Nourished Drop-in

Torrington

Breastfeeding and infant feeding support Thursdays 10-11.30am

Early Nourishment CIC invite you to come along with your baby, toddler or preschool child. There are lots of toys to keep children happy and a range of refreshments.

Our breastfeeding support is provided by accredited peer supporters and breastfeeding counsellors. However, we support all parents with all feeding queries without judgement or expectation. You don't need to have a problem either, just come for a cuppa and chill.

Our Torrington drop-in is held at the Torrington Children's Centre at Bluecoats School. We will provide refreshments if you can bring a travel mug. How can you help me? We can support you with: breastfeeding latch issues; sore nipples; coping with night feeds; bottle feeding; expressing; returning to work; breastfeeding twins (we have three peer supporters who’re twin mums!); tandem feeding; breastfeeding in pregnancy; milk supply worries; weight gain issues; introducing solids and much more!

We hope to see you soon, follow us on Facebook Early Nourishment Community Interest Company, for regular updates.

This year’s May Fair was magical. We thought the Harry Potter theme looked brilliant. The Walking Carnival was a great success, with crowds bigger than I've ever seen before.

We would like to give a huge thank you to the May Fair and Carnival Committee, whose work will soon be starting for next year's event! If you would like to volunteer to make May Fair happen, please email torringtonmayfairsecretary@gmail.com. There are a variety of ways you can help even without being on the committee if that's not your thing. But any support would be welcome.

At Community and Resources committee, it was agreed that Planning S106 agreements would now include scope to include habitat banks. These habitat banks are to be maintained by the developer for 30 years after the development is built. This can be done by creating new habitats as part of a new development, or to enhance an existing local habitat site. These habitat banks will be able to offset the biodiversity lost from building the site itself, and to actually increase the biodiversity overall between the development and that habitat combined. This will also include monitoring fees so that the developer will be paying for Torridge District Council officers to monitor both the site and the habitat.

Also at Community and Resources, during conversation about the Devon,

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Adaptation Strategy, we discussed a document which is to steer councils across the South West on actions which can be delivered to adapt to both reduce the manmade impact, and the changes needed, to cope with climate change. There were some concerning comments by Councillors about manmade climate change being unproven, and some members found it was becoming hard to identify the truth around the issue because of the rise of false information through social media. One Cllr even suggested that children should not be educated at schools about climate change or its impacts. As a coastal area, as climate change starts to occur and sea levels rise, Torridge would be affected quite quickly. Given that TDC and the Environment Agency use a lot of money to ensure the pebble ridge at Westward Ho! Is maintained, reducing the rate of sea rise would also reduce the burden on the tax payer. Cllr Lauren Bright spoke out against the climate change denial, and focused on how TDC can deliver the actions in the report, and use the report when it comes to updating the Local Plan. The committee narrowly managed to change the recommendation from endorsing the document and giving clear direction to officers, to noting the document. Cllrs Chris Bright, Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin and Wendy Lo-vel called this decision to Internal Overview and Scrutiny, where it was unanimously agreed that TDC should not note the

Drain clearing CCTV surveys

Repairs/Relining

document, but fully endorse it. This is now to go back to Community and Resources, and if they disagree with the endorsing of the report, then it would have to go back to Full Council to be decided by all councillors, as opposed to the committee.

Following recent lobbying by TDC to South West Water to improve communications and service, particularly around new developments at planning stage, there have been many discussions between councillors, officers and SWW taking place.

SWW are planning to reduce storm overflow spills in Torridge by 58% by 2030, and are investing £850M across the South West over the next two years. SWW are taking the challenge of storm overflow spills head on, having the highest planned reduction percent in the UK compared with the national average of all water companies in the UK reducing storm overflow spills by only 36% by 2030.

With this newfound cooperation between SWW and TDC, we hope the discussions will continue to bear fruit. As always, if you have any concerns about any issue, please contact us:

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

Septic Tank and Treatment plant installation

Tank and Treatment plant installation

Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251

How Food, Water & Energy are Connected

Water, energy and food are essential for human wellbeing, poverty reduction and sustainable development. Projections suggest that the demand for freshwater, energy and food will rise due to demographic changes, economic development and international trade, amongst others.

Climate change puts an additional stress on water availability and quality, and causes extreme events (floods/droughts) that have severe socioeconomic and environmental consequences.

We need to better understand the connections between growing enough food, meeting rising energy needs and providing ample clean water. Our everyday food, water and energy choices have a profound effect on each other and the environment. The more we take these connections into consideration, the better our chances will be of achieving a sustainable future. Let’s look at a few examples:

Water/Food

When we consider water and food we have to think globally, as just under half of the actual food on plates is produced in the UK. UK agriculture uses around 28.4 billion cubic meters/year (Bm3/y), its ‘water-footprint’ (WF) while the imported food WF is around 46.4 Bm3/y. Processed food such as dairy products, tomato sauce, fresh bread, bacon all have a WF.

Water/Energy

Total Property Services

� Property Maintenance � Renovation & Extensions � Patios & Decking \/ Roofing

Energy supply depends on water.

Water supply depends on energy. The interdependency of water and energy is set to intensify in the coming years, with significant implications for both energy and water security. Each resource faces rising demands and constraints in many regions because of economic and population growth and climate change. Energy is needed to extract water from lakes, rivers and oceans, to lift groundwater from aquifers and pump it through pipes and canals, to treat and deliver it to users.

Food/Energy

The UK is one of the top producers of sugar beet, growing around 6 million tonnes per year. As beets have a water content of 75% by mass, significant amounts of energy are needed to produce dry crystalline sugar.

Potatoes are important vegetables in the UK food market and approximately 6 million tonnes are processed each year.

Drying potatoes is energy intensive.

Something to think about: if everyone in the UK stopped wasting food at home for just one day, it would have the same impact on greenhouse gasses as planting half a million trees.

0.9 million bananas are wasted in UK homes every day. It takes 330 thousand m3 of water to grow the bananas wasted at home every year

It takes 65 thousand m3 of water to grow the potatoes we waste at home every year.

The tomatoes wasted at home

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB

� Pvc Fascias & Guttering

� Painting & Decorating

� Bathroom Specialists \/Plumbing

07974 888324

Dafforn & Son

Dafforn & Son

Independent Family Owned Funeral Directors

Dafforn & Son

Torrington

Independent Funeral Directors

07817 993819 "No job too big or too small" � for property 'TLC' phone

every year have the equivalent greenhouse gas emissions of 51,000 cars.

Meal planning is a great way to reduce food waste and to save water, energy and money. 1m3 = 500 x 2 litre bottles of milk!

SWW have begun to explore four alternative billing methods to better align charges with actual usage. The first tariff trial, which began on February 1st, offers households in Cornwall a credit of up to £30 on their bill if the county collectively reduced its water consumption between the start of the trial and April 30th 2024. The second one is to trial a block payment tariff in Barnstaple from April 1st called ‘Smart Saver’. This is the type of tariff we have been suggesting for some time, unfortunately it has not been coupled with a smart meter and app. Two further tariff trials will be introduced later this year.

SWW is also launching a trial to address customer leaks by distributing 6,000 ‘LeakBots’, ‘LeakyLoo’ strips and offers to perform ‘water audits’ in selected households in Devon and Cornwall.

See our Facebook page for more details. gtwaterforum@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ greattorringtonwaterforum

Eight stone-built holidays cottages

Roger P. Byrom 01805 622263 Independent Funeral Directors

6 New Street, Torrington 24 Hour personal service 7 days a week Funeral plans & monumental masonry

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 01237 421528.

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.

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.

Fleur’s Gardening Forum

All things bright and yellow

What is it about the colour yellow that some gardeners really seem to loathe? I have met one or two who refuse to grow any plant that has yellow flowers, even daffodils! All I can say is that they are missing out on some truly beautiful blooms.

Yellow is one of the significant colours in nature, particularly early in the season in the UK. This may be because it is bright and attracts pollinating insects. Having said that, it is difficult to know if these insects actually see in colour, or more in shades of brightness. Who doesn’t have a frisson of pleasure on a cold winter’s day, when the sun is shining, when they come across a bank of glistening celandines arching up towards the light? Or perhaps the little winter aconite (Hymalis) that grows happily under deciduous shrubs and trees.

Then there is the daffodil – how can anyone not enjoy its many forms? The wild form can be seen around the Torrington area, along the Tarka Trail in particular, and is daintier than its cultivated relatives. Daffodils look wonderful en masse in grass, which is their preferred habitat.

The dainty primrose, ‘prima rosa’ or first rose to our ancestors, is a long-lasting flower, and loves to grow on grassy banks, in deciduous woodland, virtually anywhere in our gardens. How can anyone not like it just because it’s yellow! Dandelions, hawkweed, meadow and creeping buttercup may not be so popular yet there they are, flashing golden yellow, attracting bees and other mainly beneficial insects.

Late summer brings Rudbeckia, Helenium and Dahlias to light up our autumn borders just as the daylight hours are growing shorter and, of course, the wonderful sunflower in all its shapes and sizes.

As the year turns unto autumn, our trees take on shades of gold and ochre, creating a fiery last display before the winter storms blast the leaves everywhere; a natural display of fireworks to mark the end of the growing year.

Yellow can be ‘awkward’ to fit into those ever-popular pastel-coloured borders, with their blues, pinks and lavender shades, yet with some careful planning and ensuring that there is plenty of ‘green’ in between the various colour forms, yellow flowers will bring warmth and a splash of light to your garden.

So, let’s be brave and include yellow in our garden colour schemes and say ‘Yippee to Yellow!”

Fleur

Thursday - Monday 11.30am-4.30pm

Garden & Landscape

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

LOGS FOR SALE

Tel: 07971533 235

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive an afternoon tea for two at The Old Farmhouse Kitchen. 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 John Baker. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 13th June and the solution and winner will be in the July issue.

The Old Farmhouse Kitchen & Tearoom

For a cream tea, afternoon tea or a light lunch to remember, tucked away down a quiet country lane lies The Old Farmhouse Kitchen and Tearoom. A destination cafe with pretty, tranquil garden, you may catch a glimpse of delightful donkeys, greedy goats or even a timid tortoise, whilst enjoying your tea.

The delicious food, using locally sourced ingredients, has won The Old Farmhouse Kitchen and Tearoom a Gold Award from Taste of the West. The menu includes sandwiches, toasties, ploughman's lunches, homemade sausage rolls plus much more. Luscious, large, handmade scones, made fresh each day, drenched in locally produced clotted cream and jam. The selection of award winning cakes changes each week; make sure you sample a slice of what many customers have called “the best ever cheesecake”!

The traditional tea room also has on offer locally-produced honey, preserves, artwork and jewellery, along with Jellycat soft toys and natural Moogoo skincare products, suitable for all ages.

A great place for children, with their own menu, secure garden and an abundance of activities to keep them occupied.

The friendly and accommodating staff at The Old Farmhouse Kitchen, look forward to seeing you soon. Delicious homemade food &

Tarka Valley Railway News

We had hardly had time to put everything away after the Easter Open day when preparation began for the second running weekend of the season - the May Fair Special, a community event in conjunction with the annual Great Torrington May Fair celebrations.

Royalty descended on us on a fine day on Saturday 4th May in the form of the 2024 May Queen and entourage. The event was opened by the Mayor Cllr Doug Smith, with a speech about the original Special that ran in 1978. Roger Davis did a great job in painting the replica headboard for our DMU. Our guests were on the first ride of the day. Much fun was had by all with plenty to enjoy on the day.

Despite the change in the weather on the Sunday, we were able to raise muchneeded funds both for the railway and for the Great Torrington May Fair organisers. Our working Thursdays have continued, regardless of some inclement weather: the ballast hopper is being rubbed down ready for paint, the new ceiling for the brake van has been fitted

In Memoriam - Tony Easton

Stephanie Easton, on behalf of Jennie, Leo and Heidi, would like to say thank you to all those who have helped them in this time of sadness. Tony passed away suddenly on the 28th March 2024, and we would all like to pay tribute to the paramedics, the ambulance crew and especially our neighbours, who came to offer assistance in this family emergency. It must always be remembered too, that Tony had been supported throughout his illness by our dedicated local medical professionals.

Also it has been a delight to receive so many messages of sympathy from the folk of Torrington and others further afield, for it will help us in time to come to know that so many remembered Tony with respect and affection.

Special thanks must go to Andrew and Janice Gist, Celebrant, Amanda St John, Tina for her floral tribute and all those who took part in the service to celebrate Tony’s life. Also thank you to Annie at the Torrington Arms for making his wake such a memorable occasion.

And when we re-read the cards

That helped us along the way

We realised we must say thank you

To all those who took time to write and say

“What a privilege to have known Tony

I was so glad to call him “friend,”

And we know he would appreciate

You kept faith with him until the end.

and the trolley shed repair is at a stage when the roof can be fitted.

We rely on volunteers of all ages, some help regularly others occasionally; some have previous experience but many do not. It is not all tracklaying work, there is woodworking, metalworking, painting, storekeeping and working in the shop. We also have a range of behind the scenes work including fundraising, advertising and marketing. Whatever your skills, there will be an opportunity to use them at the Railway.

Our Facebook and Instagram pages

have latest news and regular updates and our updated website has much more information. Do check it out: wwwtarkavalleyrailway.org.

Robert Martin

Tarka Valley Railway

Pictured: Great Torrington May Queen and entourage on board for the first run of the day

The Plough Arts Centre’s June Exhibitions

Exhibition: DUNSLAND drawing with tree shadows until Saturday 15th June

Karen Howse has been a visiting artist at Dunsland. This exhibition is a gathering of her drawings, monoprints and experiments made over the five years she has been re-visiting this NT Parkland. Karen’s art practice is attentive to cycles and patterns that connect; recognising the urgency of ecological collapse, longing for hope; seeing nature as talisman, balm and messenger. Dunsland in North Devon has an intriguing history, an absent house, ancient 700-year-old Sweet Chestnut trees with heavy limbs spiralling towards the sky and rare lichens that thrive in its undisturbed microclimate. This exhibition is mostly a story of the artist’s correspondence with these trees and an open ended experiment in how drawing in a place can bring us closer. Drawing is used as tool for listening, inviting other ways of being, knowing and responding.

Artists Wall: Stephanie Lamb until Saturday 15th June

With drawing at its heart, my work is both representational and abstract, moving between the allegorical, the mythical and the natural worlds perpetually re-interpreted. Recent world events, both environmental and political, however, have presented questions about the nature of my work and what it means: how do we make sense of these events through our work, how can we find our voice and how can we make a difference?

Exhibition: Great Torrington School & Bluecoats

Tuesday 18th June to Saturday 6th July

GTS welcomes you once again to their annual Art Exhibition. Showcasing the amazing creativity and artistic talents of GTS pupils across all years. Vibrant, diverse original ideas covering a variety of themes, including art and literature with our Yr 9 Iconic Fictional Character paintings, birds with attitude in our Feathered Friends project, therapeutic

june events at the plough

The

Plough

Receives Key Funding to Benefit the Community!

We are delighted to share with you this statement from Arts Council England:

“The Plough Arts Centre in Devon has received a £245,000 Capital award to upgrade its visitor experience. This funding will address urgent building maintenance needs and reduce the venue's carbon footprint. The North Devon site will undergo exterior and foyer refurbishments to improve accessibility. A new website and improved digital infrastructure will engage more communities than ever with the centre's public activity.”

Fran Hardiman, Chair of the Board of Trustees says “As with so many buildings in Torrington, The Plough is an elderly one with a story to tell. It's a mishmash of infills and additions linking two separate buildings from front to back and this causes maintenance and repair problems. We are celebrating receiving an award from the Arts Council England which will enable us to improve the roof, install solar panels, upgrade our fire alarm, foyer and add other energy efficiency items. It's a three-year project and we are currently scoping out the order of works.”

The Plough Arts Centre

and mindful art outcomes and sculptural forms inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. GTS pupils have explored a range of different ideas, experimenting with a variety of materials resulting in some inventive and original outcomes. Come and see for yourselves! 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. (Bluecoats show downstairs on our Artists Wall.)

Please note, a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings 01/06

8:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Music: Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll 04/06

11:00am Dance Studio at The Plough Arts Centre

Workshop - Visual Arts: Life Drawing 5 week course 05/06

7:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Music: Dan Whitehouse + special guest Gustaf Ljunggren 06/06

7:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Theatre: Thestival - A Celebration of North Devon School Drama and Youth Theatre 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple

Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple

Murder & Macabre Haunted History Tour 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, BarnstapleLivewire e

Poetry/Spoken Word: Plough Storytelling Circle

07/06

8:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Music: AC/DC TRIBUTE 08/06

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

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

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Monster (Subtitled) (12A) 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Music: Swimbridge Consort with Emma Collingham: "Feel the Light"

8:00pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre

Music: Mark Ben Wilson 12/06

2:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Wilding (Cert tbc) + recorded Q&A (20 mins) with Isabella Tree hosted by Craig Bennett of the Wildlife Trusts, filmed at the Knepp Estate.

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Wilding (Cert tbc) + recorded Q&A (20 mins) with Isabella Tree hosted by Craig Bennett of the Wildlife Trusts, filmed at the Knepp Estate. 14/06

8:00pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple

Music: Lost Songs of Scilly: John Patrick Elliot & Piers

8:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Music: Music For The Earth 15/06

10:00am ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple

Workshop - Visual Arts: Terracotta Dragon Sculpture Pottery Workshop

10:00am ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple

Workshop - Visual Arts: Square to Round House Plant Willow Basket Weaving Workshop

8:00pm The Plough Arts Centre, Barnstaple

Theatre: ‘What’s Wrong With Benny Hill?’

A comedy with songs by Mark Carey. Music by Kevin Oliver Jones 19/06

2:00pm The Plough Arts Centre, Film: Only Love Matters (12A)

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre, Film: Only Love Matters (12A) 20/06

2:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Drift (15) 7:30pm ThePlough@ StAnne's, Barnstaple

Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Town, Park & Prison Haunted History Tour

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre Film: Drift (15) 21/06

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre

Music: The Darkside of Pink Floyd 22/06

10:00am ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple

Workshop - Visual Arts: Stone Carving in Abstract 2 day Workshop

8:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Dance: Skermish Ceilidh Band 26/06

2:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Civil War (15)

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Civil War (15)

8:00pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre

Music: Jess Vincent and Katie Whitehouse 27/06

2:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Civil War (15)

7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre

Film: Civil War (15) 28/06

8:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Music: CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIEW TRIBUTE SHOW 29/06

7:00pm The Plough Arts Centre

Dance: Inspire! A Community Dance Celebration

Little Torrington WI

May’s meeting was our AGM with re-election of our President Jen Hood and the co-option of the committee, with our annual reports on the WI activities over the past year. It was a busy evening with a members’ bring and buy plant sale. June’s meeting sees a return to the normal meeting format.

The print workshop with Annabel Hill was a great success and enjoyed by all who took part. There was an amazing variety of final pieces, printed from many different materials used. It was a fullon day but everyone was pleased with their results and had had a very creative enjoyable day.

The water testing groups continue to monitor the Torridge, testing at our designated sites for phosphates and nitrates, along with turbidity. The results are submitted to Citizen Science Water Project.

The book club is meeting on the third Monday of the month and is currently reading ‘A Keeper’ by Graham Norton. The ladies that lunch are becoming the ladies that coffee, venue and date of next outing to be discussed.

If any of the above sounds of interest please call Jen Hood 01805 622433.

Call or message Matt on: 07808 056 473 or email mferry8@yahoo.co.uk

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

After a little break due to travel, we welcome Taw Valley Microgreens back to the market at our collection day and social and I'll be back with the excellent range of liquid probiotics that I recommend, with free kinesiology testing available to determine which of the range suits you best at the time. We will also have our range of handmade fermented foods such as kimchi, krauts and chutneys available too. We always welcome new active members, and anyone is welcome to join us on the collection day social each month to discover more about how joining OWBG could be of benefit to you and your family.

This month I am offering an informal talk and discussion on the specific medicinal uses of certain foods which can be the pharmacy in your kitchen. Please see below for further details.

Wellbeing tip:

Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, famously said 'Let thy food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food'. This is borne out and becomes a very powerful approach if we combine the wisdom of oriental energetic traditional medicine and modern nutrition. To do this, we need to care enough about our own wellbeing to take some time to discover what this is all about and how we can practise it in our daily lives. In recent times there's been a huge swell of interest in holistic health, with people seeking more natural ways of looking after their wellbeing, so I thought it might be timely to host an informal talk about less widely-known foods that have particular benefits.

One of OWBG's suppliers produce high quality food ingredients that have traditional health benefits, tried and tested for millennia in the Orient, but not so many people are aware of these foods, their benefits or indeed how to use them.

So, with this in mind, I am offering an informal talk and discussion at our collection day and social on June 19th introducing their uses, benefits with some tasters too no doubt. So if you're curious and eager to discover ways of preventing and dealing with every day complaints such as headaches, tummy upsets, coughs, colds and so on, you're very welcome to come along and join us for the social and talk/discussion 12-1.30pm at Torrington Rugby Club.

There is no charge, but it would be really helpful to know numbers so please book your place by emailing owbg@protonmail.com, subject ‘Medicinal Foods Talk’. Mary

Upcoming grocery final order dates: 13th June, 11th July

How do I join? Via our website, where you'll find all the info you need. What does membership cost? Free. What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk. OWBG website: owbg.jimdofree.com Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group email: owbg@protonmail.com; www. marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

Appledore Singers

Super Summer Concert

Appledore Singers are delighted to announce that they will be performing their ‘Super Summer Concert’ on Sunday 7th July, 2.30pm, at Northam Hall (top of Fore Street). This promises to be a concert full of toe-tapping tunes, ranging from gospel to show-stoppers and there will be plenty of opportunity for audience participation in a medley from one of the most popular musicals ever produced. As usual, the concert will be conducted by their Musical Director, Pam Beechey, with piano accompaniment by her husband, Chris. They are also delighted to have the services of Tony Nicholls as compere, to bring the whole concert together. It promises to be an enjoyable afternoon for all.

Entry: £6 at the door (U16s free) to include light refreshments. Contact: 01237 420652

‘Seek a Smile Through Song’

Advertise in The Crier?

Friendly professional lawn mowing and general garden maintenance.

Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding.

Garden waste removal service also available.

Just before the Easter holidays, the GTS E&I Musical cast performed ‘Matilda’ on three consecutive evenings. The result of two term’s hard graft, the show was an absolute triumph: strong performances, amazing choreography, and simply bursting with energy and song!

Matilda the Musical: Reviews from the Cast I have always loved Matilda the Musical because I went to see it in Cardiff when I was six. When I found out I could be part of the GTS production of Matilda the Musical for my E&I choice, I was delighted.

The plot is based around a unique girl who loves reading and has magical powers, but her parents aren’t supportive as all they want to do is watch TV! When she starts school, she meets Miss Honey and they turn out to be good for each other in many ways. Together they defeat The TRUNCHBULL (nasty Head Teacher!

We started our sessions by reading the script and getting to know the characters. Then Mr Pluckrose decided on the casting and we began blocking the scenes and learning the challenging choreography. I was a schoolgirl called Alice, and the Matilda understudy, which I loved because I always on stage and involved in the action and dancing.

During the process of putting the show together, Mr Pluckrose took the whole cast to London to see the show being performed at The West End. This helped us because we got to see how the professionals do it and it really inspired us.Performance week was tiring because there were three shows. For me, the best show was Thursday night because we had all learnt from our mistakes on the previous evenings and performed it with enthusiasm and energy. One of the standout performers was Peter Knott, brilliantly cast as The Trunchbull – he was hilarious! Also Abby Gear, who was Matilda, did an amazing job learning all of her many lines and solo songs.

My favourite song and dance to perform was ‘Revolting Children’ at the end of the show because it was a great tune and a high energy dance! I also loved listening to Freya Bond as Miss Honey sing her songs, especially ‘This Little Girl’, because her voice is calming and beautiful.

Overall, I have gained new friends and we have built a strong community of people who love drama. I would definitely recommend the E&I Musical option to others, especially new Year 7s, even if they’re shy because they can build their confidence and will definitely fit in if they love drama.

Flo Whiting Year 7

Matilda the Musical: Reviews from the Cast

The process of putting the musical together was a tricky one! There were a few changes here and there, but it was fun to tweak things. Casting was a little dauting, because you want a certain character but you may not get the one you wanted. This was dealt with well though, because you can get one of the main character’s understudies. The first rehearsals were nerve-racking; they were scary and just so stressful.

We all went to see Matilda at the West End. The show in London was excellent. Everyone on stage was amazing; they didn’t forget any of the lines. I especially enjoyed the Physical Education scene with the song, because Matilda stood in a special palace and a pile of wooden books lifted her off the stage. I found that the songs and the choreography which were stunning on stage, were quite difficult for our cast.

I think that the best performance was Thursday the 21st of March, because we remembered everything and we didn’t forget to do the platforms on the sides. What went well was the ‘Physical Education’ song, because everyone remembered their song lyrics and just because the scene was great. We did get a little tired and sweaty at the end of the scene!

Backstage was chaotic during the rehearsals as everyone was so loud and maybe worried or even nervous for the upcoming shows. The actor who played Lavender, in the first song when they were singing ‘Miracle’ was very impressive when her notes were very high. Also the actor who played Mrs Wormwood, in the first scene when she found Matilda reading and she shrieked “Ahhhh! Harry!”, her shriek in the first rehearsal wasn’t really a shriek, it was more of a shy talk, but as we practiced more and more, she found her voice and when it was time for the show she wowed me - and maybe everyone! I think that being involved in this production was one of the best opportunities for making friends. I feel that I have learnt a lot from being in this musical. I have learnt how to make new friends and how to face my fears of performing in front of an audience. I think that it is fantastic facing your fears, so when you come back to them you are not as scared and feel ready to take on new challenges.

Emily Dawson, Year 8

Our Year 10 English pupils have been studying war poetry for their GCSE Literature course, alongside building their non-fiction reading and writing skills. We set them this thought provoking task: if a friend or relation was thinking or joining the army, would you persuade them or dissuade them? Coby’s letter below showcases some of the persuasive devices we have been learning very well:

Dear Richard,

I have heard of your decision to join the army on the one hand it may be good for you and be useful for your future. However, I feel the path you stride so bravely may be fraught with risk of stress fighting and mines. I know you feel a great deal of patriotism for the British government but do not forget they don’t care know or feel for you.

Some may say patriotism and joining the military are good, but don’t be seduced by the miasma of war: it’s not brave, it’s brutal and you may find yourself doing things you aren’t comfortable with or accidently hurt innocents. Did you consider the mental toll it may take on your health? Trauma, stress, PTSD - but still being a solider is cool, right? Well, a veteran friend of mine told me he does get respect for being a soldier, however he says abuse, distaste and apathy are just as prevalent as gratitude, admiration and respect.

Others of course will argue that the army builds your confidence. However, my veteran friend again told me of this piece of political propaganda, that preys on unconfident youths who do not realise that confidence can be gained from numerous positions. You must remember that although some suggest that the army removes vain materialistic items from your life, you could just not buy such things, and if you want a lifestyle change that doesn’t result in PTSD, trauma and depression, there are other options. If a war breaks out, you will have made a commitment to fight in such a war a war where you will be assaulted by mud, noise, chemicals and blasted with trauma for decades to come.

Is being a soldier really worth this?

p.s I will support any decision you choose to make.

Kind regards,

Your friend Coby,

Pause for Thought

Abbeyfield

We are pleased that the greenhouse is up and ready to use, and we hope to get started growing things very soon.

Our summer fundraiser will be a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, on July 20th here at Glen Tor, Villa Road, from 12-3pm. Entry is £5 which includes a savoury buffet and dessert. There will be the usual stalls and you are invited to join the staff and residents in fancy dress, or hats, if you wish!

We have an informal coffee morning on June 21st from 10.30am-12pm. Please join us for a drink and delicious cake.

Our House Manager would love to hear from you, if you would like to join the residents for a very reasonably priced lunch, one day, or if you are interested in our accommodation for yourself, or a loved one. We currently have a room to let. Join us at the coffee morning or call the house on 01805 623605.

Free Family Fun Day

IWwonder what's your opinion about prayer? Do you pray, have you ever prayed?

Maybe you think it's for Church Ministers or very religious people.

I heard about a minister who called a Church meeting to try to resolve a particularly tricky situation that had arisen in the Church, after a couple of hours no solution had been found, so someone in the congregation suggested ‘maybe we should pray about it’. ‘Oh dear’ said the minister ‘has it come to that’! Prayer had become the very last resort, perhaps you can identify with that thought. When all else fails, pray. When Jesus’s disciples were with Him, they didn't ask show us how to be successful, to become rich and famous, what they did ask was ‘Lord teach us to pray’.

What Jesus taught them was what Christians refer to as The Lord's Prayer. Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be your name.

Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For Thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory for ever and ever, Amen. Wonderful, powerful words, taught to us by our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Perhaps you have said those words in school, at a wedding or funeral service, sadly we don't hear this prayer in as many official meetings as we once did.

Have you seen the signs on the side of buses or bus shelters saying ‘Try Praying’ it may change your life. Many people have taken up that challenge and discovered that it did indeed change their life, giving them peace where before they had none. Why not give it a go? The Lord’s Prayer is a good place to start, and then as you gain in confidence move on to saying your own prayers, making them God-centred, praise filled and life changing.

You can find help with a meaningful prayer life in any of our local churches, or contact Kathy 07702 589 799. God Bless.

hat a great way to kick off the summer holidays with a free family fun day on the commons! The Torrington Cavaliers will be hosting a fun-packed day, just before the school holidays on Saturday 6th July on the Old Bowling Green. The event starts at 2pm. There will be lots of free things to keep the kids entertained, including several bouncy castles, games and sporting activities. There’s a cheap BAR for the adults, live music in the beer tent, and food will be available. With some

nice weather booked, we’ve got all the ingredients for a great family day out! If there are any musicians or local groups or sport clubs that would like to be involved, please contact us via WhatsApp on our Facebook page.

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

The Showroom Unit 5 Red Post, Bude EX23 9NW 01288 381852

carl@cblstoves.co.uk • www.cblstoves.co.uk

New Cutting Beds at Rosemoor

We are delighted to announce an exciting new venture at RHS Rosemoor – our very own cut flower beds! In a bid to enhance sustainability and celebrate the homegrown beauty of our gardens, we are embarking on a journey to grow our own cut flowers onsite.

Traditionally, The Garden Restaurant has sourced cut flowers from external suppliers. However, this year we are planning to change things. Our primary goal is to provide the restaurant with freshly cut, garden-grown blooms throughout the summer season. How? By cultivating a variety of flowers from seed here in our market garden area. Why dedicated cut flower beds, you may ask? Well, for starters, having these beds in one central location makes it easier for our garden team to care for them. It streamlines the process, ensuring efficiency in both cultivation and harvesting.

June Events at RHS Garden Rosemoor

Summer in the gardens is a delight – full of colour, texture and life. Try our new lichen trail to learn more about these fascinating organisms, or just enjoy a relaxing walk followed by a traditional cream tea in the Wisteria Tea Room. There are plenty of great events to choose from too this month… May Half Term - Family Gardening Festival with Burgon & Ball, 25th May- 2nd June

Enjoy a week packed with planting play, creative crafts, storytelling, bird puppets and fun garden trails. Whether you join the free drop-in sessions or book ahead for the indoor entertainment, there’s plenty to keep everyone amused.

Paul Harvey Sculpture Exhibition 15th June – 1st September

Admire the beautiful work of this British sculptor, inspired by his love of birds and Art Deco design, in the calm of the Cool Garden. Some works will be available to purchase.

Festival of Roses, Saturday 15th June – 14th July

(Rose Weekend Friday 21st – 23rd June)

Immerse yourself in the fragrance and spectacle of thousands of roses in bud and in bloom, in two gardens dedicated to the species. There’s no better place to admire the breadth of colour, shape and habitat of these national favourites in early summer. Boasting one of the UK’s largest collections of roses, Rosemoor is home to more than 200 different varieties and over 2,000 specimens, ranging from traditional cottage garden climbers to modern varieties, all planted in different settings and combinations in the heart of the garden. It’s a sensory experience that is not to be missed!

Join one of the weekly walks or talk to their advisory team to make the most of your visit. Or, for the ultimate summer’s day out you won’t find better than the Rose Weekend when you can enjoy daily walks plus entertainment and a floralthemed craft and food market! Relax with a picnic on our lawns or one of our many benches and let the scent of roses and the sound of live music and birdsong wash over you. Try out our 'Smell-a-thon' to vote your favourite scented rose then head to the Garden Room to browse beautiful handmade items created by some of the best crafters and producers in the West Country.

And, while our main gardens boast an abundance of beautiful flowers, not all are suitable for cutting. By establishing dedicated beds, we are able to focus on varieties specifically chosen for their suitability as cut flowers. This not only preserves the integrity of our garden displays but also ensures a consistent and seasonal supply for the restaurant. We're proud to follow organic principles in nurturing our flowers and, by eliminating the need for external sourcing, we are reducing our carbon footprint – locally grown, freshly picked with no travel. Our cut flower initiative also benefits biodiversity, attracting pollinators and enriching the environment in our gardens.

So, when you next visit, make sure you wander over to our market garden and cut flower beds. Come and see the beds in bloom, and perhaps you'll spot our flowers gracing your table in the restaurant.

Melissa Clark Horticulturist

E: support@crafnanthr.co.uk

M: 07899 665506

W: www.crafnanthr.co.uk

Providing local businesses with pragmatic and sensible HR advice:

» Contracts of employment

» Staff handbooks

» Advice on dealing with those “tricky” staffing situations

» Underperforming staff

» Sickness

» Redundancy

» Dismissal

Our commitment to you:

�� Friendly, responsive and knowledgeable

�� Your own dedicated HR consultant

�� We’ll only charge you for the work we do

�� Whatever your challenging people issue, the chances are we’ve encountered it before