June Crier 2018

FREE JUNE 2018 The Crier is produced for the community, supported by advertisers, Great Torrington Town Council, and the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity.

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

rose festival 16 June - 22 July

Boasting one of the UK’s largest collections of roses, Rosemoor is home to two dedicated rose gardens, bringing together over 2000 roses across more than 200 different varieties and a wealth of hues and perfumes.

Rose Weekend including Craft Market, guided walks & advice 22 - 24 June Armed Forces Day, free admission to armed forces personnel 30 June

All included free with normal garden admission rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on Great Torrington, Devon EX38 8PH Tel 01805 626810 RHS Reg Charity No. 222879 / SC038262

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Missed the print deadline?

Contact us...

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

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

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

Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All advertisements 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: Dy Darch Rural Distribution: Sue Crane and the community Printers: Toptown, Barnstaple

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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.

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

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Dog Training Classes at Taddiport Village Hall

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

From Your New Mayor...

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would like to introduce myself as your newly elected Mayor of Great Torrington. I am proud and honoured to take on this role. I commit to serving the people of Great Torrington to the best of my abilities with enthusiasm, compassion and devotion to our community.

Our Council has to function as a team, because at this level of local government it is the most effective way to complete the day-to-day work of our Council.

We represent our local community of Great Torrington, and we cannot allow interference from political parties, or the promotion of them in any shape or form. Our priority is the people whom we serve.

We are an active Council with committees whose members work hard.

If people have some ideas, they are more than welcome to come to Council to discuss them.

Our Council has once again had a very busy year. The Great Torrington Futures Group continues with their enthusiasm for making changes which may benefit the local economy and coming up with new and innovative ideas.

We are also pleased to announce that the Great Torrington Town & Community Hall restoration project is now nearing completion. Hopefully open for full use by the summer, for events and functions.

The first wedding has been booked.

For all your quality bespoke Wooden Gates, Sheds, Garden Furniture & Timber Do come down and see us at Victoria Sawmills, Merton EX20 3EG, 01805 603429 visit: www.torridgegates.co.uk

Our Council was instrumental in securing access for the Devon Air Ambulance to land on the Vicarage Field, and we also agreed to finance the remote light system for night landings.

We are delighted at how our town is moving forward to make Torrington a plastic-free town. Special thanks to Great Torrington Chamber of Trade for promoting this initiative. Our Town Council unanimously agreed to support this at the full Council meeting in January.

Clarity ‘Let’s Talk’ is a North Devon based mental health charity that offers counselling, group and one-to-one therapy services for anyone experiencing mental health or emotional issues. This charity also runs a Bereaved Through Suicide group. Our Council unanimously agreed to initially help fund this service for the benefit of our community.

As Dementia Action Week took place on 21-27 May, The Friends of Torrington Library and the Torrington Memory Café, with the full support of Great Torrington Town Council, have launched the project with the aim to make Torrington a ‘Dementia Awareness Town’.

Great Torrington has, per head of population, the most active community of volunteers in the UK; this is evident when you look through the Crier to see the many groups and organisations here in our town. We give our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all the volunteers who give up their valuable time to work tirelessly for the benefit of our community.

The two charities I have chosen to raise money for this Mayoral year are the

Torrington Memory Cafe and the North Devon Hospice. I look forward to having the support of our generous community and for ideas of fundraising for these very worthwhile charities.

Cllr Di Davey, Mayor of Great Torrington

Mayor’s Civic Parade & Service

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he Mayor, Councillor Mrs Diana Davey, will hold her Civic Service in Saint Michael and All Angels Parish Church, on Sunday 1st July at 3pm.

Uniformed organisations are requested to assemble at the bottom end of Sydney House Car Park at 2.35pm. Councillors, Trustees, Conservators and the Presidents of the Chamber of Trade, Rotary and British Legion and their partners are requested to assemble in the Town Council’s Committee Room, Castle Hill at 2.30pm. Standards should not be paraded.

Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee Draw

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hank you to everybody who supported our annual draw, which helps to pay towards the running expenses of the May Fair and Carnival.

Winners have already been contacted, but the cash prizes are as follows: First Prize - £100, P. Edwards Second Prize - £50, A. Harper Third Prize - £25, D. Davey Richard Rumbold, Treasurer

Castle Hill Opening Hours Library Book Renewals

01805 622107 0345 155 1001

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

Café & Garden @ 1646

01805 626146

Open Mon – Sat 9am-4pm

Tourist Information

01805 626140

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

Torrington Town Council

01805 626135

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

Citizens’ Advice Bureau Torrington

03 444 111 444

Tues 9.30am-12.30pm drop in

Community Development Trust

01805 626100

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Genesis/Pannier Market Admin

01805 626110

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Heritage Museum & Archive

Contact Sue Scrutton 01805 622391 or Val Morris 01805 622306

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Tarka Pottery

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

Highways a Priority for Cllr Andrew Saywell

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t doesn’t feel like it has been this long, but May marked a year since my election as your County Councillor. I am not quite sure where the time has gone, but I hope in my year in office I have put Torrington Rural back on the map at County Hall.

Last month was also my first May Fair as your County Councillor, and it was wonderful to see so many people out in Torrington. I would like to thank the May Fair Committee and all the volunteers and organisers who helped make it such a successful occasion. My thanks, as well, to Sue Mills who has finished her year as Mayor.

Sue has done a fantastic job as Torrington’s Mayor and I look forward to working with the new Mayor, Di Davey, over the next year – welcome Di. The last time I wrote an article for the Crier it was snowing! Thankfully, the weather has now improved, but the impact on the highway network has been severe.

Normally there are around 200-250 potholes reported to DCC countywide every day. If you think that number is high, in the aftermath of the ‘Beast from the East’ the number of pothole reports went up to 600-700 a day!

Skanska, DCC’s Highways Contractor, have put out extra gangs but the backlog is huge and at the moment they are prioritising the A, B and large C roads first. I want to stress that this does not mean potholes on rural roads won’t be repaired, but it may take longer than usual. I would ask for readers’ forbearance whilst they work through the backlog.

Highways will be on my agenda for the next few months at County Hall, as I will be working on two task groups on the subject. The first task group will examine how Highways performed over the winter. The second will look at how our new contractor is performing. Skanska has been DCC’s Highways Contractor for over a year now and I would welcome residents’ feedback on their performance.

Although Highways issues make up the majority of my casework, there are other projects that I am working on at the moment. One of these is rural mobile phone coverage. While signal strength in the villages is generally much improved, there are still areas where a lot more progress needs to be made.

High Bickington is one such village where the mobile coverage is poor. Having lobbied the mobile phone operators, I was pleased to be able to organise a meeting between EE and the Parish Council to discuss how the operator can help improve mobile coverage in the village. I am hoping to organise similar meetings with other Parishes as well where mobile coverage is poor.

As ever, this is just a small snapshot of the work I’m doing, but if you have any problems or queries about any services Devon County Council provides please do not hesitate to contact me. You can ring me on 07886 446560 or email andrew. saywell@devon.gov.uk.

Cllr Andrew Saywell

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Farewell From Your Mayor…

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his is sadly my last Mayor’s article, as on the 15th of May Cllr Diana Davey became the Mayor for 2018/19. I wish Diana and her Consort, Cllr Margaret Brown, a very enjoyable and prosperous term in office.

My daughter and I have had a wonderful year, meeting many lovely people who I’m sure will remain as friends for a long time. One such couple are Cllr Dermot McGeough Mayor of Bideford and his lovely wife Sarah who, while in office, became the proud parents of a baby boy called Atlas. He joined them in nearly all their engagements, and certainly stole the show on a few occasions, such as our own May Fair day, where he had his own invitation and was so good, and a credit to his parents.

April and May have been very busy!

Louise Dunn organised an afternoon tea in aid of the British Legion, and raised well over £330. Louise and helpers made all the delicious food, thank you, you all worked so hard.

May Fair is always a great day for Great Torrington, and I want to thank everyone who helped to organise and put things in place, enabling everyone to enjoy this very special day. There are too many names to mention, but we all appreciate everyone who helps.

My two chosen charities were Great Torrington Army Cadets, and The North Devon Hospice, and their cheques were presented at ‘Mayor Making’ on

15th May. My Mayor’s award went to the Kingsmead Park Funraising Group, who have worked so hard organising many fundraising events and raising a lot of money. They have been very successful in working with TDC, our own Town Council, and many other organisations, to qualify and obtain grant funding. I wish you every success in the future, and look forward to seeing all the new play equipment in place.

My thanks must go to my daughter Keeley, who has helped me so much over the year, and am delighted she is the new Deputy Mayor. Keeley worked so hard with the May Fair dressmaker Stephanie Fisher, her husband Bill, and daughter Tanya, in producing the wonderful outfits, and honouring our own fantastic Cavaliers.

Best wishes and I thank everyone for their support.

Sue Mills

Torrington Town Tidy Up Day

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We are The Town Task Force

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e are a group of able and enthusiastic volunteers at Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School who enjoy helping out in our local community.

We’ve already taken part in creative and artistic projects at the Library, and the Plough, and we designed the recycle bins that were in the square for May Fair.

We’ve delivered and helped sort food at the Food Bank, designed and made lanterns for the Grinchmas parade and even helped with theTown Tidy-up.

We like being involved in helping improve our town because we love it and also like to have a voice in our local community. We would like to help out wherever needed. So if anyone has a job for us, or a project for us to get involved in, we would love to help.

Maisie Stevens, Town Task Force Bluecoat Primary School email: admin@bluecoat-primary.org, 01805 622333

would just like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came and helped at our town tidy up day, it was a great success and I like to think that this could become an event that happens at least a few times a year.

So many groups from the community came out to lend a hand, and I am so proud of our town for coming together to get Great Torrington looking it’s best for May Fair. I have heard so many lovely comments about how good the town looked, and it’s all down to the volunteers who got stuck in. Big thanks should also go to Guy Sanders who, with agreement from Torridge Distrcit Council, collected all the rubbish bags, I appreciate your help.

Special thanks must go to Gill Clayton and Chris Bright who helped me organise this event and manned two of the areas that we focused on, on the day – I think we made a good team!

I am hoping to organise another event like this in time for the South West in Bloom judging day in July, so please keep your eyes peeled for any information nearer the time.

Keeley Allin (Torrington Town Councillor)

Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival 2018

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hat’s another successful May Fair and Carnival completed, and I think you’ll all agree that this year’s events, along with the weather, were very well received by everyone.

As they say, the sun shines on the righteous, and the people of Great Torrington are definitely that.

I would list everyone who helps the Committee to bring the events together, but I’d go over my allotted space! On behalf of everyone on the Committee thank you to everyone who helps us; from when the preparations begin to when the flags are taken down. Also thank you to everyone who contributed to the Carnival collection, this year we raised an amazing £1881.49.

Now is probably a good time for me to let you all know that the Committee will need a new Secretary shortly as I’ll be stepping down from the role and the Committee at the AGM, so if you’re reading this and have some spare time on your hands, please do not hesitate to get in touch. I will be putting more details of what the Secretary role entails in the July edition, but if you have any questions beforehand I’ll be more than happy to answer them.

Right now to get started on the thank you letters!

Natasha Batty, Secretary tash.batty@gmail.com

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TORRIDGE COMMUNITY MINIBUS SERVICES Run by Ilfracombe & District Community Transport

Ring and Ride services operate in the following areas: Mondays from Westward Ho! and Bideford Tuesdays Torrington Wednesdays from Hartland Thursdays High Bickington and south of the area.

Fridays Bideford

Further details from: Shirley Davies 07776 414740

Celebrating May Fair

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n Thursday 3rd May, the community of Great Torrington came together to celebrate the annual tradition of May Fair. The Square was festooned with colourful bunting, and the sun was shining, as celebrations were kicked off in style by the Reception and Year 1 children of Bluecoat C of E Primary School. Their beautiful voices rang through the crowd at the service in the Square, led by The Reverend Peter Bevan. Year 2 children led the Floral Dance from the Pannier Market into the Square, the country dancing was performed by Years 3 and 4 and the maypole dancing was expertly executed

by Years 5 and 6. Year 2 children also formed the Guard of Honour ready to receive May Queen, Amelia Batten, and her entourage: Crowner, Paige MacDonald-Bale; Heralds, Albie Smithson and Freddie North; and Attendants, Allannah McConnachie, Poppy Fry, Ellie Cooke, Lilie Barber, Evie Hill, Calypso Smithson, Amber Schofield and Lily Beer. As they entered the Square the theme was revealed; this year it was ‘Our Cavalier Town’, celebrating Torrington’s heritage. The theme was chosen by Mayor’s Consort Keeley Allin, dressmaker Steph Fisher and her daughter Tanya. The Heralds were dressed as Cavaliers and the May Queen and Crowner wore golden gowns, representing the wealth and the monarchy. The Attendants wore 1646 style costumes holding baskets of bread and vegetables representing the market town.

Keeley Allin commented “We all agreed how lovely it would be to see two

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Cavaliers walking through the Square on May Fair day, so the theme was built around the boys, which is very unusual.

The Cavaliers are such an amazing group of people, we are very lucky to have them in Great Torrington and I felt it was appropriate to build a theme around their history. Coincidentally, they are starting their build on their latest bonfire, so fitted in quite well. It was just lovely to have a theme that was entirely based around our town”.

May Queen Amelia Batten, added “May Fair is a truly magical tradition. It brings an array of colours. Everybody involved with May Fair is hardworking especially Steph Fisher, the dressmaker.

It meant the world to me to be chosen as May Queen as I fell ill in Year 3 and was unable to be an Attendant. The best moment for me was seeing my sister lost for words, overcome with tears of joy”.

This year also marked the end of an era for teacher, Paul Tennant, who

retires at the end of the summer term.

Mr Tennant has been integral to May Fair celebrations over the past 32 years taking children through the steps of the various maypole dances, ensuring the ribbons are just so and so much more besides. May Fair, and Bluecoat as a whole, will miss him greatly. Thank you Mr T for all your contributions to this wonderful occasion!

Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School

Life on the Verge Free Plant Identification and Survey Training Sessions

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ife on the Verge Biosphere project aims to coordinate a network of volunteers to identify, ‘adopt’ and manage species-rich verges across the North Devon Biosphere.

To help people get involved with the project we are running free plant identification and survey training sessions.

These sessions are for anyone who would like to learn how to carry out a wildflower survey, brush up on plant identification skills and help preserve wildflower verges. * Saturday 2nd June, 9.30am-12.30pm at Meeth Quarry * Saturday 2nd June, 1.30- 4.30pm at Meeth Quarry * Wednesday 6th June, 6-9pm at Fremington Cuttings * Wednesday 20th June, 6-9pm at Meeth Quarry To book a place on one of our training sessions, or to learn how you can help preserve the wildflower verges in your community, contact Jo Pullin Project Coordinator: verges@tarkacountrytrust. org.uk or 07855 660 139.

We are appealing for people to get in touch to find out more about how you or your community might get involved and to suggest and discuss verges that might be of interest.

Your District Councillor Working for You!

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have been honoured to represent Great Torrington as a District Councillor now for just over 5 months! I would like to say thank you to everyone who voted for me at the end of last year and I hope that the result will inspire more young people to get involved in local government. I was also privileged to be co-opted onto the Town Council last month.

The last few months have been extremely busy and a lot has been going on in Great Torrington in particular. I was delighted to be invited to take part in the May Fair parade; such a monumental part of life in Great Torrington, and a day that I will never forget. I was told that my Great-Grandfather also took part in this parade many years ago, when he was on what was then called Torrington Rural Council.

So what have I been up to? You’ll be glad to know that I won’t include everything here, and I also have a Facebook page which I use to try and keep people up-to-date.

One of the successes I’ve been involved with recently is the Great Torrington ‘bag for life’ initiative, which we’ve been running through the Great Torrington Chamber of Trade, with the hard work of WildWood and Willow. I visited town businesses to find out what they are doing to reduce plastic use and waste, and was really encouraged to hear about how environmentally conscious many of them are. The majority of now stock cotton ‘bags for life’ for just £1, hand-printed by the ladies at Wildwood and Willow, to offer

customers an alternative to plastic carrier bags.

Following the success of ‘Kingsmead Park Fundraising Committee’ in raising money for their play area, a group of us have set up ‘Calf St Park Action Group’ with the aim of raising money to completely transform the main town park. We have contacted both GTS and Bluecoat school and held a public consultation on 12th May to find out what new equipment people want. We will then put a plan together and start applying for grants. TDC has already promised £10k in 106 monies, and have urged us to apply for £10k through the community grant scheme; some local councillors have agreed to donate once we know the specific equipment we’d like.

Many more things have been happening but I’ll save it for another day, and of course there are the numerous potholes, dead trees, uncut grass, dog poo, fly-tipping incidents etc I have been reporting and looking into on a regular basis!

Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement, and please get in touch if you would like me to look into anything for you, my email is Cllr.CottleHunkin@torridge.gov.uk, phone no: 07495 367 801.

Heavy Duty Gardening Compact Tractor & Loader Flail/Topper Mowing Rotavating, log sawing/splitting Wood chipping, hedge trimming etc.

Garden overhaul and tidy Small/odd jobs done around the farm

Michael Harris, Petrockstowe 01837 811283

Spirit Unleashed Pilates

Stretch & Relaxation Classes in Yarnscombe

Mondays ~ 9am-10am • 10.15am-11.15am Tuesdays ~ 9am-10am • 10am-11am • 11am-12pm For details & booking contact: Sue 07896 326 024 Email sue.spiritunleashed@gmail.com

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

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

Tel: 01805 623865 / 07771884918 waynerowtcliff@hotmail.com

opportunity ask Weand also District need volunteers to help with GreattoTorrington Community Development Trust locations for these supporting the café and its customers Tourist Information Centre: Call for Volunteers so if you can spare two hours a month Up to 6 hours per week, flexible then please get in working touch.

Hartland Church Hall he CDT has recently become a member of the North In April Annie Brierley is coming to Devon Marketing Woodland Vale Care Bureau.

Through its website, social media and industry contacts, the NDMB read short stories and poems which on promotes tourism in the region to individuals and travel agents across the should invoke a lot of memories from Arts Centre, Bideford UK, Europe and North America. the past.

If you, a loved one or friend In order to keep the supplied with up-to-date information about attractions, hasNDMB a memory problem then let them emorial Hall, know Café -area, everyone is extra volunteers to join events and facilities in theabout Great the Torrington we need welcome. the Tourist Information team at Castle Hill. rtham Hall information Good interpersonalFor skills,further IT skills and experiencecontact of marketing will be an d like any further Pauline Page 01805 625969 or email advantage in this role. ut any of on paulinepage123@btinternet.com please If this sounds interesting, please contact Penny Podmore, Tourist Information Manager, for a discussion. Contact her at: Tourist Information Centre, Castle Hill, Jones, 26 South St, GreatMeditation Torrington, EX38 8AA. y (01237 There a weekly meditation class Tel: 01805 626 140.

Emailisinfo@great-torrington.com every Thursday in the dance studio at The Plough Arts Centre, 6.15-7.15pm on Memory Café News Need Library Help With Your Meditation is aTablet way or of Laptop? café seems to be learning to relax on’t forget you can borrow a micro:bit on your and ength-to-strength with respond creatively to are the library card for three weeks for free!

So if you rs every month. which lifeto interested in coding this challenges might be an opportunity day fell on Valentine’s throwsyou atwhat us. it’s It can also try had your ahand, someone show about! www. ebrate we duetor lethelp to reduce stress. By learning to microbit.co.uk/home# ng ballads as well as meditate we find space ourfully busy Lego club event scheduled for half terminwas booked almost instantly, cuits and The decorations. lives to get in touch with ourselves and youraise to Northam Library for loaning the Lego. e which thank helped develop awareness of Reading what is going on – Mischief Makers. To this year’s Summer Challenge ome of thePlans costs.are afoot for in our mind and in the world around us. compliment this we have events planned: The Magic Garden, theatre for the under fortunate again to get If we think ofback finding inner sessions. All will be 5s.

Really Wild will be plushappiness, Lego Animation from the Devon Learning peace, as a state of mind then revealed in next edition, on our Facebook page and via posters. which will help us to month’s meditation can help us to achieve that ourwe IT volunteer, is with us on Thursday mornings by appointment. Over elop the Perry, service goal. lastmemory few years heIhas helped so many users get to grips with their tablets le who the have teach two complementary practices, ohn Portman who put or phones, turning one themwhich into useful tools rather than focuses on the breathirritating and gizmos! If you work toaresecure this suffering from brain your device, session and Perry will the strain other with which focusesbook on a the tioned in last month’s endeavour to makeemotions. the impossible seem logical.

Give us I have been meditating for aa call on 01805 622107 moving away the hours duringfrom opening and book slot and for a one-to-one number of your years learnt thesession. ed to recruit another Torrington Friendship Groupwith for seniors is looking to welcome new members, if practices the Triratna Buddhist iser. you If anyone think youismightCommunity, like to shareacompany, conversation and a get-together on a movement which has post then please getjoin us regular basis, here onBuddhism Friday 22nd fromthat 10.30-11.30am for a one-off adapted in June a way is coffee morning, and find out what this group has to offer you and what you might like to offer a group.

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Please join us on a Sunday afternoon 8

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ingsmead Park Fundraising Committee has provided an exciting update on their progress to regenerate Kingsmead Park.

As this edition goes to print, we as a Kingsmead Park Committee can report that the first two items of new playground equipment arrived on Thursday 10th May, and will be installed over the course of 2-3 weeks.

We were able to secure two more substantial amounts of community funding, plus we raised £250 at our last fundraising event, the family quiz. Grills Renovations & Refurbishments Ltd generously donated another £100 to our cause, and altogether this enabled us to add a single baby carriage swing to our existing order for the Fairfield Multi Play Unit, both items totalling £15,550!

We have been very determined to make this project a success, and have been amazed at the amount of community funding available to anyone looking to improve things in their local area, and the town and district councils have fully supported our efforts.

We are continuing our fundraising with an upcoming bingo on Saturday 16th June, at the Torridge Vale Social Club, 6.30pm and we shall be repeating our summer BBQ event, more details to follow. We look forward to seeing you!

Thank you Torrington community for your ongoing support of our project!

Mandy Isaac, Secretary, Kingsmead Park Fund Committee

JUNE SUNDAYS 4pm FAMILY SERVICE You are very welcome to join us for our family friendly 1 hour service at Bluecoat CofE Junior School, Great Torrington - music, worship, teaching, sunday school & refreshments.

Grosvenor Church Torrington Pastor Tim Gilbert 07789 670754 www.grosvenorchurch.org.uk

grosvenor church torrington

Torrington Dementia Alliance Dementia Awareness Training

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he Torrington Dementia Alliance will be offering dementia awareness training during Dementia Action week 21st-27th May. (Further training will be available in the next few months.) This is the start of an ambition, led by Cllr Sue Mills and Mayor Di Davey to see Torrington recognised as a dementia friendly community.

The training lasts an hour and will enable people to understand more about how to support and help those living with dementia. Becoming a dementia champion will support the move towards recognition of our town.

If you are interested in the training, or helping to realise this ambition, please leave a name and contact details at the library or email christine.porter45@ yahoo.com.

This is just a start, so join us to show to the world how Torrington cares for all.

Christine Porter

Weare Giffard Art Group

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or their exhibition last year, Weare Giffard Art Group constructed a large early morning scene of Bideford Bridge, made of 32 separate tiles; all painted individually by each group member, the effect was stunning.

This year’s exhibition is at Weare Giffard Village Hall on 30th June and 1st July from 10am until 5pm; see this year’s joint project and original paintings for sale at very reasonable prices.

Delicious home baked refreshments are also available. Please join us, you will receive a very warm welcome.

Torridge Council Community Grant Scheme Now Open

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orridge’s Community Grant Scheme is now entering its third year of operation with grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 up for grabs. In the last few years the scheme has distributed nearly £800,000 right across the district which has helped community halls, local clubs, and organisations make their wish-lists become a reality.

The process of applying is quick and easy but applications must adhere to the following criteria: * The funding isn’t available for a project that has already been completed. * The project must be achievable within the funding timescales. * A project must be within the Torridge area with funds to benefit residents of Torridge. * It must have the support of ALL relevant Local Ward Councillor(s). * A project must be run by a local Parish or Town council, voluntary organisation, community group, social enterprise - not individuals or businesses. * The project must have a long-term impact. Applications for capital spending will be considered, but core organisational costs such as salaries, rent or utilities will not be eligible.

For further information please visit the website at www.torridge.gov.uk/ communitygrants, email www.leisure.gov.uk or contact Leisure Services on 01237 428700.

Torrington Library Needs Activities to Share

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un Palaces is both an ongoing campaign for culture at the heart of every community, and an annual weekend of action – arts, science, craft, tech, digital, heritage and sports events and activities – run by and for local communities.

Ideally a Fun Palace is by local people for local people. Fun Palaces are about joining in with whatever your version of ‘culture’ (arts, science, craft, tech, digital, heritage, sports) turns out to be – whatever brings people together.

The campaign promotes culture at the heart of community, and community at the heart of culture; with local people sharing their own passions and skills, as a catalyst for community-led transformation, with active participation for all ages.

We want to turn Torrington Library into a Fun Palace on Saturday 6th October.

So if you have an activity that you can share rather than demonstrate, and if it is logistically possible to deliver it within our library space, I would love to hear from you.

Check out the Fun Palaces website for more details of this annual event on the first weekend in October. Funpalaces.co.uk.

Kate Greaves Torrington.library@librariesunlimited.org.uk

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

Lizzy’s Larder

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

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

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

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

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

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What’s On in Great Torrington?

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

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

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

SUPPORT & FRIENDSHIP GROUPS FOODBANK Tuesday 10am-12noon at the Baptist Church and Saturday 10am-12noon at Castle Hill Singing for health, for older people, those with dementia and their carers. 10am-12.30pm, Torrington Community Hospital. £1 donation per session. For details call 01805 622666. (First & third Wed of the month) Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Wed of the month 10.30am-12.30pm @ Phase 1 Common Room, Ethelwynne Brown Close, East the Water Bideford Men’s Shed: Football Club, School Lane 9am-12.30pm.

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

Contact Dave on 07759 783 001 Memory Cafe 10.30am -12.30pm, Methodist Church at the top of Mill Street. Every second Thursday Torridge Gingerbread Group, every Monday, 10-12

noon, Bluecoat Centre, Beach Room (usually) email: torridgegingerbreadgroup@outlook.com or find us on Facebook.

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

‘Hearing Loss Support Group’ Social group for the hard of hearing. Every third Tues 2pm @ The Bickford Centre. Call 01271 373236 Jolly Dollies coffee morning (a social network for widows) at Rosemoor on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Be assured of a warm welcome. Free entry to the Terrace Cafe.

HEALTH, SPORT & FITNESS (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training above TVSC, Mondays 6.15pm boxers; Tuesdays 6.30pm Recreational boxers (fitness); Wednesdays 6.30pm carded boxers only; Thursdays 6.30pm Recreational boxers (fitness), Fridays 6.15pm boxers; Saturdays 9.30-11am Junior BoxFit (6 to 10 year olds) Running club every Monday & Wednesday at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm every Wednesday Wendy’s Fitness for Life classes every Thursday at the Scout Hall Gas Lane 07787 607 322 Slimming World Join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street. Every Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Lisa 07515 256 965. Every Thursday 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm. Norah 07789 632 166.

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

Lawn Bowls every Monday 6.30pm at the Green, Castle Street. New members will be made most welcome.

Contact Secretary John Pitts 01805 439100 visit www. greattorringtonbowlingclub.co.uk.

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

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB Families Welcome

Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY Large function room for parties/weddings Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month Plus other entertainment 10

Contact Sharon 01805 622543

REGULAR CHURCH SERVICES

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

Catholic Church of the Holy Family – Mass every Sun 9.15am Torrington Methodist Church, please see diary section.

Grosvenor Church Torrington, Bluecoat Junior School 4pm, with an exciting children’s programme, refreshments at 5pm. Every Sunday. Sunday Brunch (Grosvenor Torrington Church) Every 1st Sunday 10.30am - 12noon Bluecoat School Hall. Food and fun for all the family! Tim 07798 670 754.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bradford Village Hall, Holemoor, Bradford, Holsworthy, EX22 7AB. Sunday Sacrament service at 1011am Torrington Baptist Church, please see diary section.

CHILDREN’S CLUBS, TODDLER GROUPS & PRE-SCHOOLS 1st Torrington Rainbows at Torrington Rugby Club every Monday term time 6.15-7.15pm l torringtondistrictguiding@ talktalk.net 1st Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall every Mon term time 6.30-8pm Kathryn Masterson 01805 623212 torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net 3rd Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall, every Wed term time 6.30-8pm Emma Keil torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net Beaford Guides at Beaford School Tuesdays term time only 7.15pm till 8.45pm Bridget Wade 07830 797 050 or email BeafordGuides@outlook.com Beaford Rainbows will meet at Beaford school on Tuesdays 4.15 till 5.15pm for more information please contact Leanne 07842344302 or Email rainbows@girlguidingbeaford.co.uk Beaford Brownies meet at Beaford School on Tuesdays 5.30pm till 7pm contact Bridget Wade on 07830 797 050 or email beafordbrownies@outlook.com 1st Torrington Guides at Torrington Rugby Club every Tues 7-8.30pm Linda Masterson 01805 623212 1st.torrington. guides@gmail.com SCOUTS IN TORRINGTON - All Scouts groups meet at the Scout Hall, Gas Lane. Contact for all groups is Kirsty Pells on 07887 557 574 or email kirsty.pells@btinternet.com 1st Torrington Beaver Scouts (age 6-8) meet during term time on Tuesdays 6-7:30pm.

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

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

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

LEISURE, HOBBIES & ENTERTAINMENT (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Plough Workshops: every Monday: Yoga 6:30-8pm; Folk Orchestra 7-9pm; every Tuesday: Yoga 2:30-4pm; Adults ballet 6:30-7:30pm; Ploughcappella 7:30-9pm; every Wednesday: Adult English Class 6:30-8:30pm; Latin for Beginners 7-8pm; Tai Chi 7:30-9pm; every Thursday: Sapta Dance 11am-2:30pm; Tai Chi 2.15-3.15pm. Writers Group 7:30-9pm (first Thursday of the month), Life Drawing Sessions 7:30-9pm; every second Thursday Open Mouth Music & Poetry 8pm; every Friday: Sarah Anne Westcott School of Dance 3:30-7:30pm; every Saturday: Plough Junior Jazz 11am-1pm; Plough Youth Theatre 9:45am-5:15pm Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4pm Doug 01805 622648 Beryl 01805 624294 all welcome (every second Saturday) Tai Chi 12.30pm every Thursday, all abilities welcome.

Contact Ageing Well on 01805 622666. £2.50 donation Cribbage pairs comp, third Wed of the month, Torrington Arms 8pm Tarka Pottery Adult Pottery Classes every Thursday in term time:10-12 noon, 1.30-3.30pm and 7-9pm 07931 306 414.

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

unless weather is appalling. Variety of tasks. 07881 905 260.

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

Torrington Rotary Club meet weekly on Tuesdays at Torrington Golf Club (6pm for 6:30pm) - Secretary David Large on 01769 560556. Prospective members, and members from other Rotary Clubs most welcome.

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

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

Phoenix Line Dancing Club. New beginner/improver line dance classes at Weare Gifford Village Hall Tuesdays 7.309.30pm. All ages and abilities welcome. Ian 07833 720 050 or Marilyn 07825 278 405

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Diary

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

Organisations are responsible for advising of changes to entries.

June 2018 Friday 1st

Plough World Music:Tashi Lhunpo Monastery present ‘The Power Of Compassion’ 8pm Bingo Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes down 7.45pm

Saturday 2nd

Plough World Music: Femi & The Inrhythms 8pm

Sunday 3rd

Plough Workshop: Storytelling Circle 2.30–5.30pm Plough Films: Funny Cow (15) 5.30pm; The Lesiure Seeker (15) 3pm; A Quiet Place (15) 8pm Torrington Garden and Horticultural Society visit to The Mill Bridgerule, Sally Ramsden, Chair 01805 623152 Torrington Commons Car Boot 7am for sellers, 8am-1pm for buyers, Old Bowling Green, every Sunday from May to September, weather permitting. £5 a pitch for sellers, free parking for buyers. 01805 462463 or email torringtoncommons@gmail.com Torrington Commons Car Boot 7am for sellers, 8am-1pm for buyers, Old Bowling Green, every Sunday from May to September, weather permitting. £5 a pitch for sellers, free parking for buyers. 01805 462463 or email torringtoncommons@gmail.com Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am

Julia Spencer, 7pm concert at Bideford

Monday 4th

Plough Films: Let the Sunshine In (15) 5.30pm; Crowhurst (12A) 8pm

Tuesday 5th

Plough Films: A Gentle Creature (18) 3pm; A Quiet Place (15) 6pm; Funny Cow (15) 8pm

Wednesday 6th

Plough Films: The Lesiure Seeker (15) 5.30pm; A Gentle Creature (18) 8pm

Thursday 7th

Plough Film: Avengers: Infinity War (12A) 7.30pm Plough Music: Lewis Clark & The Essentials at The George Hotel, South Molton 8pm

Friday 8th

Plough Comedy: Tony Hawkes: Trust The Bucket 8pm Car Treasure Hunt Thornhillhead Methodist Church register 6.30-7pm. £5 per car, return to Frithelstock Village Hall for BBQ, raffle fun & games

Saturday 9th

Beaford Village Hall Market 10.30am to 12.30am tasty breakfast baps, coffee and cake and a chance to buy from a range of stalls. Car washing £5. New stall holders welcome, please ring 01805 603199 or 01805 603046 for details.

Plough Film: Avengers: Infinity War (12A) 8pm Plough Folk: Jinski at St Anne’s Arts & Community Centre, Barnstaple 8pm Coffee and cake at Glen Tor, Villa Road, between 10am and 12noon to celebrate ‘Abbeyfield Week’ Plant sale and coffee morning at Northam Library10am-12pm. Donations of plants welcomed.

Sunday 10th

Plough Films: Peter Harris Films 4pm;

Beast (15) 8pm Concert at Thornhillhead Methodist Church 7pm Arscott Ladies & Harmony supper to follow Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am David Watson, 7pm concert Thornhillhead

Tuesday 12th

Plough Film: Funny Cow (15) 8pm

Wednesday 13th

Plough Theatre: PYT Juniors: ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ by William Shakespeare 7pm

Thursday 14th

BINGO at Beaford village hall! Doors open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm. Bar, tea and coffee available. Free parking and cash prizes. Second Thursday of every month Plough Theatre: PYT Juniors: ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ by William Shakespeare 7pm Plough Walk: Ghost Walk at St Anne’s Arts & Community Centre, Barnstaple 7.30pm Plough Open Mouth Music & Poetry Night (In The Gallery) 8pm

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Friday 15th

Plough Theatre: ‘Great Expectations’ by Charles Dickens 8pm Bingo Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes down 7.45pm

Saturday 16th

Plough Theatre: David Mynne presents ‘Great Expectations’ by Charles Dickens at The George Hotel, South Molton 8pm Plough Music: ‘Simon & Garfunkel through the years’ performed by Bookends 8pm

Sunday 17th

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Plough Films: That Good Night (12A) 3pm; Crowhurst (12A) 5pm; Finding Your Feet (PG) 7.30pm Plough Music: ‘Simon & Garfunkel through the years’ performed by Bookends at Lynton Town Hall 7.30pm Rolle Canal Walk from Torrington Railway Station to Beam Aqueduct. Start 2.30pm for details see article elsewhere in the Crier.

Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion, 6.30pm Rev Lynne Burgon

Tuesday 19th

Plough Films: That Good Night (12A) 6pm; Beast (15) 8pm

Wednesday 20th

Plough Rock Music: Livewire (AC/DC tribute) 8pm Plough Folk: Alaw (with Jamie Smith & Oli Wilson-Dickson from Mabon) at The George Hotel, South Molton 8pm

Sunday 24th

Plough Films: Mary & the Witch’s Flower (U) 3pm; Edie (12A) 5.30pm; Ghost Stories (15) 8pm Plough Open Air Theatre: Hotbuckle Productions ‘Wuthering Heights’ at Hartland Abbey 7pm Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Beverly Bedford, 6.30pm Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion

Monday 25th

Plough Talk: Peter Christie ‘Folklore in Winkleigh Morris at Weare Giffard, North Devon’ at St Anne’s, Barnstaple Cyder Presse 8pm 7:30pm Plough Workshop: Film Workshop with Battlefield Northam 1069 - Talk & Tour.

Anda Union 2-4pm See history on your doorstep in a brand Plough World Music: Anda Union 8pm new talk and guided tour of Northam’s Royal British Legion meeting battle with Nick Arnold. A short talk with Conservative Club 7pm slides will be followed by a fairly short level guided walk around Northam Thursday 21st with views of the battlefield. 2pm or Plough Open Air Theatre: The Handlebards ‘Romeo & Juliet’ by William 6.30pm suitable for adults and children accompanied by parents or carers.

Shakespeare at Tapeley Park, 7pm Plough Classical Music: George Todica Tickets £2 to be booked in advance from Northam Library 01237 475111 at St Michael & All Angels Church, Torrington 7.30pm Tuesday 26th Plough Film: The Greatest Showman Plough Films: Mary & the Witch’s (PG) 8pm Flower (U) 5.30pm; On Chesil Beach Plough Music: A Retro Musical Soiree (15) 8pm (In The Gallery) 8.15pm Plough Open Air Theatre: Miracle Theatre ‘The Cherry Orchard’ by Anton Friday 22nd Chehkov at Blackberry Farm, Milton Plough Open Air Theatre: Hotbuckle Damerel 7pm Productions ‘Wuthering Heights’ at RHS

Rosemoor 7pm Plough Film: On Chesil Beach (15) 8pm

Wednesday 27th

Plough Open Air Theatre: Hotbuckle Productions ‘Wuthering Heights’ at Manor Green, Lynmouth 7pm

Plough Film: Edie (12A) 8pm

Saturday 23rd

Plough Film: Redoubtable (15) 8pm

Thursday 28th Friday 29th

Plough Americana: Talon ‘The Acoustic

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Collection’ 8pm Bingo Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes down 7.45pm

Saturday 30th

PloughTheatre: Bristol Old Vic Theatre presents ‘The Mill on the Floss’ by George Eliot 8pm North Devon Choral Society Summer Concert Shakespeare in Song 7.30pm at Christ Church Braunton, £12, children & students free,ticket info see article page 18.

Massed Bands Concert 2018

W

e invite you to join us on Friday 20th July, 7pm at Devon Hall, Bideford College for an evening of musical masterpieces to suit all.

Steeped in history, the concert has brought together three brass bands in North Devon for over 20 years.

The tradition started in the 80s when Appledore, Bideford and Hartland bands joined together once a year to perform a large concert.Torrington Silver Band took over from Hartland, and the tradition continues.

The bands take it in turns to organise and host the event and 2018 is the turn of Appledore. Last year’s concert was hosted by Torrington Silver Band at Rosemoor Gardens; the evening was a sell out and a huge success.

We are hoping to see this repeated at this year’s concert, you won’t be disappointed.

Tickets are available on the Massed Bands website massedbands.co.uk at £8 per person and £1 for children aged 16 or under.

Everyone welcome!

Easter Hall Park Stables RIDING & CARRIAGE DRIVING LESSONS FOR ALL ABILITIES & AGES • Small groups or private lessons • Fully licensed and qualified staff • Indoor and outdoor schools

LIVERY • DIY, GRASS, PART & RETIREMENTS Petrockstowe, Devon, EX20 3HP, 01837 810350 www.easterhallpark.co.uk

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Instant Images Embroidery We work closely with our customers to offer quality embroidered and printed garments for business, leisure and schools.

T

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

We have recently discussed the financial pressures that many people are under. Trying to find solutions to cope with money worries can cause a great deal of anxiety and stress, which may lead to serious health problems. Helpful advice and practical assistance are offered by the following members of our group: LEAP (Local Energy Advice Programme) provides free advice on getting the gas and electricity tariff which best suits your needs, assistance with switching supplier and offers energy saving tips. Also, subject to eligibility (e.g low income, receipt of tax credits/ housing benefit) they can offer a free home energy visit when they check your tariff, install simple energy saving devices and also provide debt and benefit advice. For details, contact Marion Fanning on 07485 534 177, email Marion@361energy.org - or pop in for a chat with her at the 1646 Cafe on the second and last Tuesday 10am-1pm.

The Transitions Project is a Big Lottery Funded Wiser£money partnership that offers free, independent and confidential money and debt advice across Torridge and West Devon, for those that cannot

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TV, DVD, Video and Digital Installations Got equipment you can’t use properly?

We can offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service With over 25 years experience in the North Devon Area Phone Alistair McMillan

46 South Street, Torrington Tel: 01805 938002

Great Torrington & District Care Forum Working For The Community

A J Installations

01805 804626 or 07977 810 088 Great Torrington Music, Arts & Heritage Festival 14th-15th September 2018

F

ollowing on from last year’s inaugural Round the Square event, the overall aim of the now renamed festival is to bring people into Great Torrington, to showcase the town and also of course to create an event enjoyed by visitors and locals of all ages.

Arrangements for September are taking shape as the working group pulls together a packed programme designed to bring the town together, by maximising local skills and knowledge. The weekend kicks off on Friday 14th September with a folk evening at the Plough, followed by a variety of activities the following day: singing, drama, art in the church and the Plough, musical events throughout the day at different venues, historical tours and talks, children’s activities, dance groups, an open mic session and much more. The day will climax with a concert in the Church by the Silver Band/Two Rivers Wind Ensemble whilst for those who like it loud, there’ll be local bands in the Square and, as darkness falls, in the Plough.

We’re happy to consider any other acts/event and so if you or your group has a musical or artistic skill, we’d love to hear from you. We’re looking for local volunteers to play throughout the day in local premises, such as cafes and pubs and, if weather permits, in the town centre. We’re also specifically looking for face painters if anyone is able to volunteer their services. We really do have a blank sheet and would encourage anyone to come forward and offer up their skill/talent to add to events already in the programme – the more diverse, the better.

To make sure the events are accessible to everyone, we hope the majority of events will be free of charge or open to donation as people feel appropriate. We also hope our local traders will enter into the spirit of the event by encouraging interaction in and outside shops/cafes/pubs etc. so, if you have a business in the town and would like to get involved, please let us know. If you think you can help in other ways, perhaps with practicalities, by hosting an event of any size, large or small, or by being involved in an event yourselves, please contact Cathrine Simmons on cathrinesimmons@hotmail.co.uk or 07930 944 971.

Facebook: RTSfestival, Twitter: TorringtonF access advice services due to their physical or mental health, rural location or caring responsibilities. We offer home visits and individuals can self-refer or be referred for advice by partner agencies.

For details contact: enquiries@ wisermoney.org.uk, 01823 461099 or visit: www.wisermoney.org.uk.

If you represent a group that shares our aims, you would be very welcome at our meetings; our contact details are below. * Chair Sandra Crawley sandra.guard@ me.com. * Secretary Judith Nock judithnock@ btinternet.com

Tanya’s Holistic Beauty & Nails Studio

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

LIFE BALANCE COACHING Do you need to make changes, but not sure how to begin?

Are you feeling stuck or need some clarity?

Are you troubled by personal issues and need to talk in confidence?

Then call Ruth Chambers Life Balance Coach, NLP & EFT Practitioner 01805 93812 or 07789 020 668 Email: ruthchambers@gmail.com

To support local businesses, it’s important that we ‘Think Local First’ whenever possible!

If you would like your business to feature in these pages, please email Esther on torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com or call 07912 693 858

Great Torrington Auctions

G

reat Torrington Auctions is a new and vibrant business, and we are excited to offer regular general auction sales centrally at the Castle Community Centre, Castle Hill commencing on 21st July. ​On sale day viewing will be from 9am, with the sale itself commencing at 11am.

Café 1646 will be open for refreshments before and throughout the sale.

Our passion is to offer regular auction events, each with over 400 easily portable lots that will have wide appeal; from art and antiques to collectables and quality household items.

We will also be supporting Torrington-based charities by offering the chance to submit lots into every sale free of seller’s commission, subject to available space.

Also, Torrington residents can take advantage of a discounted seller’s commission rate, only applicable to holders of an EX38 prefix postcode on a first-come-firstserved basis. ​With over thirty years’ experience in the antiques and auctioneering world, and with a particular expertise in collectable books and ephemera, the auctioneer will be pleased to help with any advice needed. We are excited to add bi-monthly auction events to the Great Torrington calendar!

Come and enjoy the bidding! We look forward to seeing you!​

What is MBSR and How Can It Help You?

M

indfulness is a non-secular, simple, and very powerful practice of training our attention. It’s simple in that it’s really just about paying attention to what’s happening here and now; such as sensations, thoughts, and emotions in a non-judgmental way. It’s powerful because it can interrupt the habit of getting lost in thoughts, mostly about the future or past, which often generates more stress on top of the real pressures of everyday life.

Our 8-week course follows the gold standard Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme, originally developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn in the late 1970s, which explicitly address the negative thought patterns that can perpetuate stress and lead to depression and anxiety. Through the course we will explore the essential mindfulness meditation exercises and cultivate new skilful ways of dealing with what goes on in our bodies, minds and daily lives. As a course participant you will receive a comprehensive Course Handbook and a set of audio files in CD or mp3 format, which will guide you through the core meditation practices. Ongoing support is always available during and after the course.

I am a trained MBSR teacher with over 30years of meditation practice, and am committed to helping individuals realise their full potential through MBSR. Group sizes will range between 4 and 8 participants and will be held at local venues in Mid/North Devon depending on demand. Please visit www.gentlemind. uk for more information; access links to the growing body of scientific research around MBSR and to lodge an expression of interest. Alternatively, you can email me, James Murray at info@gentlemind.uk or phone me directly on 01769 302007.

Could Life Balance Coaching Help You?

I

t’s hard to get it all right in life - if not impossible - but we can usually make some improvement! Do you feel your life is out of balance in some way? Do you need to make changes so that your life runs more smoothly? Then you may benefit from Life Balance Coaching.

If you doubt yourself or have thoughts about not being good enough or not able enough coaching can uncover the limiting beliefs underlying these thoughts and help you to change them.

Imagine taking time for yourself to work out what you really want out of life.

You can take the chance to talk through issues in a positive and encouraging way and receive the help you need to start making changes. The coaching process is very creative and it can be challenging too, but Ruth has a gentle and supportive style. She can help with all sorts of issues including phobias (especially spiders and snakes), health, self-image, career and relationships.

A session of Life Balance Coaching with Ruth Chambers starts from where you are now, and then focuses on getting you to where you want to be.

Ruth has been coaching since 2001 and her style is encouraging and gentle so you will leave feeling more positive with some concrete plans to work on. All sessions are confidential so you can be completely open.

If you’d like to know more about discovering your inner confidence and potential please call Ruth Chambers, Life Balance Coach, NLP & EFT Practitioner on 01805 93812 or 07789 020 668 or email ruthchambers@gmail.com.

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proceeds for the Methodist and Parish

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Amazing Sporting Achievementswives for shop to their hearts’ content!

Community Information The Centre is available to hire for Centre Monkleigh Primary School! meetings, after 4pm, through into the

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Torrington and Hatherleigh. EX20

carnival queen and her attendants.

Rolle Canal Walk Dolton’s three th pubs are all expected Sunday 17 the June to benefit from carnival atmosphere Those who went awayThere for thewill Bank and an influx of visitors. be a Holiday rather than come on the roundabout, trampoline, fish and Rolle chips, Canal walkand on 6th May missed a barbecue, candy wagon. treat with perfect weather and good company!

Your Vote Counts! st mind, on Sunday 17th June 1Never Torrington Scouts have registered there’s a stroll up the Tarka Trail with Nat West Community and Force, canal path to Beam and people the whichWeir invites to famous Torridgevote Aqueduct, built charity/ in for a local 1815-17, wherecause the canal of crossed their choice, the valley and river way from with on theits winner and two the estuary to its r uterminus n n e r s - uatp Rowe’s being Moor. (Yes,ayougrant. guessed it; Rowe’s awarded Please go to www.communityforce.natwest.com/ Moor eventually became Rosemoor st projects/ Gardens!)and type 1 Torrington Scout Group into the project box, Heading northwards fromname Torrington register and vote for us.

Please get Station, now the Puffing Billy, after as many of your friends and family to do a few hundred yards the Tarka Trail so as well, wethe are successful crosses the as lineif of Rolle Canal, we will be had ableemerged to continue which fromour theprogram woods of refurbishment to Scout HQ, not only of Furzebeam Hill to wend its way benefitting the Scout group, all across the riverside meadows tobut Staple those who hire the hall.

Vale. Here a new permissive path Fran Ashton was prepared in 2013 that followed the canal around the base of the hill, to rejoin the Tarka Trail behind Beam to Derek House.Ode The route of the Stamp canal was quite Derek Stamp is feat 60, in its day, being cut an engineering A milestone his on life,one side and built into the rockinface And we’ve come this together up on dry stone wallsfar some 20 feet high As devoted man and wife.

(opposite ur Sydney amazingHouse schoolCar hasPark, certainly evenings on most days, and also on next to 'Panamart') shone, with pupils’ sporting occasional Saturdays for small events We areachievements! delighted to announce that or training days. Please see Kiz or theEden, 'Esteem' - toEmily support Lexi,group Georgia, andthose Erin email: kizangell@btconnect.com suffering with mental health difficulties, travelled to Torquay to represent North depression, fatigue, pain or anxiety Devon in the Devon Winter Games, (cross Charity Xmas Cards & Gifts has been awarded grants from the country event). In a field of nearly 90 runners,Cards for good causes and Fair Rural Devon Trust (through the Devon Eden came first and after a long Trade gifts will be on sale in St. Mary’s Community Foundation) and nervous from wait we were delighted to hear that Monkleigh church Bideford from 2nd November to Awards For All. Primary School honours of first 7th December, Monday to Friday 10amWe can now took buy the laptops, enabling place in Devon!

Such an achievement!

Thank you to Mrs Amanda Reeves for 4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm.

Over 30 the group to use Wow! the internet in order to travelling with an our integrated team. charities to select your cards from and help themdown become and anchallenge. interesting of teams gifts from An earlypart Sunday brought our next Weselection had seven accepted of ourmorning community.

They many parts of the world. competing in the gymnastics competition at Falcons Gym. In only our second year will be able to engage a support worker of assist competing this field, we are very aproud to say that we took third in the U9’s to with inform-filling, producing boyssearching team; Percy, Barniecourses and Archie. We came third in Carnival our U7 mixed team; CV, for Ernie, education Dolton Joe, will Millie, Welocal are very proud of everyone our squad! bands and beJosie ableand to Isabelle. search for Flaming torches, indrummers, voluntary or paid work. The group has and fireworks will give a small Devon drop-in days three times a week, (see village a blaze of publicity diary) which include a 'listening ear', next month.

Thanks from Melissa Baker someone nfrom the 22nd community who is carnival, Sunday April I completed the LondonDolton’s Marathon,annual and I would happy to sit chat, everyone for those for feeling which back to Victorian likeand to thank their kind donations and dates sponsorship.

It lonely andwas low.very hard, and very hot, but an amazingtimes, will be on Guy Fawkes experience.

The crowds The Centre offers free legal i g halong t, Stoathe t u rfinish. day I 5th were wonderfulalso and like everyone says, certainly helpNyou advice, and tenancy and debt advice, November, which completed the race in 5hrs 20 mins, nowhere near Dad’s time of 2hrs 50,gives but I’mthe by appointment, (see diary). Rev. festivities an extra spark sure he would have been proud and I wish so much he could have watched and of Graham Slingo comes in for a coffee interest this year. cheered me on! and chat, and we have started a book Farmer Gent, the key I would also like to thank everyone who helped and Ralph supported meone withofmy coffee club for young people (read a book figures behind the Dowland country morning back inorMarch, and also to the many people who attended. It was a fair over a week fortnight and dog show in June, is organising pleasure to see there to help raise funds for the British Lung Foundation, then come in you andall chat the spectacular finale in which £1,600especially when started to snow! about it over a itdrink and worth of fireworks will light up the night Manyon people suffer from the UK, and the British Lung cakes) Thursdays afterlung conditions across Torrington Silver Band He’s always there to hold my hand, sky. people, families fund sFoundation c h o o l / c ocontinue l l e g e . to work O n hard to support those And kiss me when I’m sad, The Pipe & their Drum Band,andSamba Summer Concert research. I am verycan proud far raised £1200,Allstar with further Saturdays, gents sitto say I have so Band My soul mate for so many years, and over Torrington Majorettes ou are invited to join Torrington funds still coming in. and read with a coffee, or Best friend I’ve ever had. will all be taking part in the parade Silver Band for their Summer is not too lateour if you wish to make a donation, please visit Virgin Money buyIt books from charity through the village, along with many Concert at the Howe Concert Giving – Melissa Baker4 uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/ bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their We met when I was “just 18”,New brightly-lit floats, including this year’s Buildings or Re fundraiserPage?pageId=858604. Thank you all once again.

R.PITTS Hall, Castle Street, on Saturday 28th Then call y July.

The evening promises a repertoire Melissa Baker “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Friend

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Rola

R.PITTS

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R.PITTS

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

“BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” www.yourgardencare.com l l l l l l

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

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of dollars in royalties

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New Buildings Ltd Then call your Local Tel:S&GCarpets 01805 624665 Mob:We 07812 067199 The are a family run business Friendly Builder

Tel: 01805 Mob: 07812

specialising in all types of flooring including Marmoleum, Cushion Vinyl, Safety Flooring, Wood and “Committed to topContract qualityCarpets, workmanship, “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” professionalism andLaminated customerFloors. satisfaction”

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Tel:624665 01805 624665 Tel: 01805 New Road, Torrington • Specialist finishes/effects • Wallpapering • Period properties • Mob: 07812 067199 Mob: 07812 Call us on 067199 01805 623112 Tim Parkinson City & Guilds NVQ Level 2 Qualified • Fully insured

Tel: 01805 623678 Mob: 07522 880 484 E: tiptopdecorating@outlook.com

On the 16th November there will be a

water bottle Whibble!”

events to celebrat

Little Otters Whiskers Pre-schoolPet Centre

Little Otters Pre-school offers a fun and safe environment For your one stop pet shop, A large for 2 –5 year olds to learn and stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, play. We accept Early Years Bedding, and wild bird products, 2-Year-Old funding. Medical items etc....

If you would like to come and visit please contact Dolton Find us at 20 south street, Primary School on 01805 804315.

Great Torrington 01805 622859 www.tarkafed.org

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

Find us at 20 south street, Great Torrington 01805 622859

Torrington Rack Park Community Project

Whiskers Pet Centre S

Whiskers Pet Centre

Whiskers Pet Centre

Whiskers Pet Centre

Whiskers Pet Centre

Whiskers Pet Centre

Whiskers Pet Centre

Whiskers Pet Centre

ince my last update, we have spent another two days in Rack Park. above the river on the other.

On Friday 16th March, RHS Work was carried out under the apprentices Alex and Ollie, myself, plus Heritage Lottery funded ‘Life’s Journey’ Dave and John from Torrington in Bloom For your pet shop, A large For your one stop pet shop, A large project to make this path easier andone stop(TIB) removed the old wooden edging stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, safer to walk, before it was officially from the borders at the top of the park wild bird products, Bedding, wild bird products, opened to the public, and byBedding, permission and replaced it with new wood, purchased Medical items etc....

Medical items etc.... of the landowners, Clinton Devon

by TIB. A further top dressing of RHS Estates, (successors in title to Lord Rosemoor’s own compost was added.

Find us at 20 south street, Find us at 20 south street, Rolle who built the canal) weGreat are Torrington now On Friday 01805 622859 20th April the re-planting Great Torrington 01805 622859 able to walk it with care. began. Thanks to a further donation from The whole walk is barely two miles, TIB, an eclectic group of plants were selected for planting. The plants were chosen so any keen walkers from Torrington by apprentices Alex and Cordy as part of their horticultural development. They both can join in without having to drive to spent time in the RHS Rosemoor Plant Centre selecting plants able to withstand the the start, while for those based further dry, exposed and sloping site. In addition to this, colour, shape, height and spread away there is car parking at the Puffing all had to be taken into account. The final list of plants included: Buddleja, Sedum, Billy, or cycle access from the Tarka Agapanthus, and Salvia.

Trail. This is part of the ‘Life’s Journey’ During the day, the beds were weeded and prepared for planting; apprentices Tim project and is organised by the Rolle and Cordy placed the plants out across the borders where they thought they would For your one stop pet shop, A large For your one stop pet shop, A large Canal and Northern Devon Waterways be best suited. After some discussion, the design was finalised and we all began the of pet food, Toys, Cages, stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, Society, who will appreciate stock a donation planting.

Finally, the new plants were watered in andBedding, a goodwild tidybird up carried out.

Bedding, wild bird products, products, of £2 per person towards their on-going None of the above work would have been possible without the facilities and able Medical items etc.... volunteer work on the canal Medical and its items etc.... assistance of Torrington Methodist Church, Torrington in Bloom and members of historic features.

Great Torrington Neighbourhood Chaplains, so a bigFind thank you all street, concerned.

Find us at 20 south street, us at 20 to south The start is at 2.30pm on Sunday RHS622859 Garden Rosemoor takes on two apprenticesGreat eachTorrington year for a01805 two year training Great Torrington 01805 622859 17th June, meeting at the old Torrington course to gain practical experience and study for the RHS level 2 in horticulture.

Station, and we hope for weather as This is a fabulous grounding for a career in one of the many aspects of horticulture. good as we had on the first walk. For For more information on the RHS Apprentice scheme (2019 recruitment will start information email hassallc@ymail.com December 2018), visit the RHS website rhs.org.uk. but all are welcome, no need to book.

Richard Wilson Horticulturist. Image byRichard Wilson/RHS

Jolly Dollies Coffee Mornings at Rosemoor of musical masterpieces to suit all ages he Jolly Dollies is an organisation started by widows for widows, whose and tastes. There will be a raffle with For your one stop pet shop, A large For your one stop pet shop, A large main objective is to help widows regain a social life through friendship and fantastic prizes, and refreshments will stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, social events. be available in the interval. Doors will Bedding, wild bird products, Bedding, wild bird products, on the first and third open at 7pm and the concertMedical will begin atetc.... There will be a Jolly Dollies coffee morning at Rosemoor items Medical items etc....

Tuesdays of each month, starting this month on Tuesday 5th June and Tuesday 7.30pm. Tickets will be available on the 19th June 10.30 - 12 noon. Be assured of a warm welcome.

Free entry to the door at £5 per adult and under 16’s free.

Find us at 20 south street, Find us at 20 south street, Terrace Cafe.

Everyone welcome!

Great Torrington 01805 622859 Great Torrington 01805 622859

T

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

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

Find us at 20 south street, Great Torrington 01805 622859

Find us at 20 south street, Great Torrington 01805 622859

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Moira Brewer

Parish can Records ne the Torridge now

R.PITTS

Then call Friend

“BUILDING & RENOVATIONS”

Great Torrington North Devon A EX38 7EZ

new book...

Rola RBuildings STACEY New or Renovations?

New Buildings Then call your Local Tel: 01805 624665 'BUILDERS' Mob: 07812 067199 The Friendly Builder

R.PITTS En-suite Accommodation TORRINGTON UNCOVERED Mrs Tracey Martin “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS”General

by Moira (Brewer www.yourgardencare.com (01805)623213 l l l l l l

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General Garden Maintenance and join us for a glass of wine Come Garden Fencing Hedge Laying at the launch Call David Lock Stone Walling * *541 ** R.PITTS on 01805 603 Pergolas www.locksbeamfarm.co.uk - 12.30pm Saturday 4th May 10.30am Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio email: tracey@locksbeamfarm.co.uk Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

in the Plough Gallery

North Choral Usher,Devon formerly Head Society Gardner Hestercombe Gardens.

Summer Concert In April we have a coach outing Shakespeare in Song

at

to the Cornish Flower Show at Bocconoc Saturday 30th June 7.30pm at Estate.

WeBraunton are delighted at how Christ Church quickly the seats have been taken and ur concert this summer is a are now praying for decent weather. stimulating mixture of music On the home front we will be hosting a inspired by Shakespeare, quiz with our ‘adversaries’ from other and songs from hisinplays and sonnets, gardening clubs the area. including Vaughan Williams’ gorgeous Our speaker in May, Tuesday 7th at ‘Serenade to Music’.

As we are 7.30pm will be Howard Wills, locally discovering in rehearsal, it is Collection a total the keeper of a National of delight to sing such and poetry.

Other pieces Sempervivums Jovibarbums.

He include George Shearing’s suiteshe will be sharing with us choral the plants ‘Music Hear’, and and Sonnets foundtoon a visit to ‘Songs Madeira. ‘fromFor Shakespeare, include theSally more about which the Society ring time honouredon ‘Who is Silvia, What email Ramsden, 01805 623152, is she’.

There will be an excerpt from sallyramsdenindevon@hotmail.co.uk ‘Agincourt’

by George Dyson, with words or turn up to a meeting at Torridge Vale Social from Henry V. Club..

Sally Ramsden We will also sing the Finale from ‘Quaker Cantata’, composed by choir member, Helen2013 Robinson, who will Nightwalk be singing in this performance.

And Get ready for another there will be a to world premiere of Nightwalk remember th ‘Nature’s Changing18Course’, May a choral on Saturday suite of four songs with words from 2013…and a new leg near Shakespeare, Holsworthy! composed by our multitalented rehearsal accompanist, and year, Nightwalk is now in its seventh and we are hoping will sign Torrington’s own, Peteryou Clarke, who up willfor everyone tells us isperformance, a memorable bewhat the accompanist at the night - rest assured we’ve ordered fine conducted

by John Hobbs, and there will and aby lovely beweather introductions Bobsunset!

Godfrey.

This will antounforgettable evening, Tickets arebe £12, include with an atmosphere full of anticipation, refreshments, children and students memories camaraderie.

Many free, available and from Torrington Jewellers, Nightwalkers wore fancy dress last Tarka Books in Bear Street, Barnstaple, year which was a wonderful feature; Walter Henry’s Bookshop in Bideford, whether you decide on fancy dress or or Braunton Museum. Also from choir not, you are warmly welcome! members, or at the door on the night, or call Janet Sharp on 01805 628262.

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Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

B

Tel: 01805 Mob: 07812

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Building Contractor All types of building work undertaken Renovations - New Build - Extensions Barn Conversions - Roofing - Plastering “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Damp proofing - Timber Treatment

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safely for future generations.

As always,Garden your evening will be Torrington & Horticultural Society

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The committee is now working hard marshalled byspeaker, our volunteers along allgave us ur last Dr Ann Stobart, a fascinating raisingproperties funds for some bright new routes insight to encourage andand ensure into plants trees your with medicinal curtains to give the hall a fresh new safety at all times.

There’s a walk for that we might grow in our own gardens. Her website look. everyone, from five has to lots 18 ofmiles! www.holtwoodherbs.com information on her Why not come and join in the fun on Deliciousproject refreshments will be provided woodland just outside Torrington.

Friday AprilIt 26th (7 for 7.30pm) when at end walk, at Stagecoach Ourthe work onof theyour flowerbed S&G Carpets continues. we there are celebrating St George’s willhave oncebeen again on hand at the end may thebesnow or a frolicking dog, but has been some damage Night.

You will be assured ofbeen a warm to ferry you back to your starting point. to shrubs. Certainly the cold weather has set things back. The tulips have welcome and fun-filled evening with This year, we are hoping to provide colourful and we hope to keep the colour going through the summer. hot food and entertainment. All for entertainment along the way and more We are now into our summer programme of garden visits, to which non-members £7.50 each. (See diary for details). ‘themed surprises’ by some of our are most welcome. Our first is on Sunday 3rd June when we shall visit the Mill, marshalls!

Bridgerule near Holsworthy EX22 7EL. Cars will be leaving South St Car Park at Nightwalk has proved to be very Torrington Uncovered 1.30pm promptly. wellthis as ayear working mill, lovingly restored, there is a one acre popular and weAs hope will be A New Book organic garden, medicinal and dye plants,16 acres of woodland, lake and riverside better than ever. So make sure you My book aboutThe Torrington is finally walks as well as homemade teas and plenty of dry seating. cost is £4, children rally your friends, family and on its way! gocolleagues, free. and get your registration I have written asday a or series If you would to come as a entry passenger, take pot luck onit the give of forms in fast,like along with your fee. either questions that newcomers are likely to me a ring to see if there are spaces.

Feel free to photocopy the forms and ask about Torrington and its Sally Ramsden, Chair 01805 623152 pass them around to friends and surroundings and the answers, of family, or you can register and pay onvarying length and detail, to those line at www.nightwalk.co.uk.

Please th questions. There are 64 sections on Probus Inaugurate 39 President note that the £10 ‘Early Bird’ entry fee different topics and over 160 black and Perry as 2018 April inaugurated and remainsr Kenneth the same till has 1st been white photographs.

I hope that, as well President of Torrington Probus, thereafter the fee will be £15, soand is the 39th as providing a guide for visitors, this President of the club. please get your entry in fast! book Ken is a remarkable man of personal courage andwill contain plenty of material that is ofby interest to townspeople. determination. of his ill health Spring Has Most Sprung atchildhood was doggedI would like to the extent of him receiving no formal schooling. Reachingto take this opportunity to Little Torrington thank his teens and seeking work with no qualifications, heall wasthe local people who have The snowdrops have helped me write this book by giving employed at various times as milkman and off-airport parking driver. He recognised been lovely, the primroses generously of their time, providing me the need for more substance and embarked on a rigorous programme of selfare out and the daffodils with information and lending me their tuition. on the bank at the top of photographs. Everyone I have spoken Following an appointment his outlook by moving into Mile Hill approaching theas a clerk, he broadened to has shown an interest in the project sales and eventually into the more technical fields of diesel pumps, dynamos and village are about to burst into a and I have enjoyed talking to you all. construction Torrington Uncovered will be magnificentplant. display of spring colour.

HeSpring later developed in diamonds, and eventually his ownfollowing Fever hasan hitinterest the Victory Hall available from formed the weekend company in drilling andtocutting a victim of as well;specialising new fireproof doors the which, May unfortunately, Fair, after thebecame launch on Saturday the crash in the financial world returning previous situation.

May at the Plough. storage cupboards have been installedhim to4thhis Even though Ken isthe nowParish retired,Records he has maintained his interest in all forms MoiraofBrewer in order to store transport and is currently involved in restoring a 1939 Rover 16.

Bob Mather

M

A new book...

TORRINGTON UNCOVERED

by Moira Brewer

Come and join us for a glass of wine at the launch Saturday 4th May 10.30am - 12.30pm in the Plough Gallery 18

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Exhibition at the Plough

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his summer sees two consecutive exhibitions of paintings

by Peter Stiles, at opposite ends of the county. From 30th June to 21st July he will be holding a one-man show at The Plough Arts Centre in Great Torrington and then the exhibition moves onto Devonport Guildhall from 25th July to 15th August.

The exhibition features an eclectic mix of images: Plymouth Lido sparkling in the sunshine, charity shop windows, kitchens, hallways, waterfalls and rock pools.

There are shaped canvases including ovals and quatrefoils - both abstract and figurative.

He makes paintings that commemorate lost events and feelings by changing them into something else - a bit like planting a tree among the ashes of someone you love.

Peter Stiles shows his work in London and across the South West. Recent one-man shows include Plymouth Arts Centre, The British Academy, London and The Black Swan in Frome.

He has lived in North Devon for over 30 years. Recently he found an essay he wrote when he was 6 years old about wanting to be an artist. Most of it holds true today.

The Plough Arts Centre www. theploughartscentre.org.uk.

Sing for Water with Ploughcapella

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loughcappella started their new summer term in April at the Plough Arts Centre, and want to encourage lots of you to come and join them for a special reason. The ‘Sing for Water’ events raise vital funds for the WaterAid charity and one of these events is a sponsored sing on July 15th 2018. The money raised will help to change the lives of the world’s most marginalised people in Rwanda, and provide them with water, toilets and hygiene.

Despite over 43% of the population in Rwanda being under 15 years old, estimates show that more than half of secondary schools in the country do not have access to clean water. If you can join us, we thank you for being a part of making this happen!

Ploughcapella’s summer term runs on Tuesdays at 7.30pm until 3rd July. There will be a fundraiser concert with Crediton Community Choir and Ploughcappella on Saturday June 23rd, 7.30pm at the Congregational Church in Crediton. Suggested donation £5 but generous donations most welcome! A Wateraid speaker has been invited.

We are raising money for WaterAid who will install rainwater systems into 41 schools, making the most of Rwanda’s rainy seasons. They will also set up 82 hygiene clubs to encourage positive hygiene behavioural change in school children, as well as training 164 teachers to be water, sanitation and hygiene champions. * £4 could pay for a year’s hygiene education for one school child * £24 can help provide one person with access to clean water * £88 could pay to connect a tap to a water source Contact Alison www.alising.co.uk, alising@btopenworld.com, 01363 774324.

Sing for Water In 2002 composer and singer Helen Chadwick, inspired by the power of song, initiated the first ‘Sing for Water’ event at the Thames Festival in London. Since then, Sing for Water has gone from strength to strength as community choirs and performance groups around the UK have been inspired to organise their own events, and to-date they’ve raised over £1 million for WaterAid projects around the world. In 2018 events will happen in London, Manchester, Leicester, Shropshire and Bristol.

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

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

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

Local Independent Florist Weddings • Funerals Giſt bouquets Ar�angements

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

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6-7.15pm

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

Fleur’s Gardening Forum Plants for Ground Cover in Shade

I

am often asked about a suitable plant that will cover an area of ground that is ‘difficult’ to garden, but that plant should not be invasive.

Of course, some ground cover plants are more vigorous than others and it all depends on the size of your garden! However, here are a few that are ‘easy’ to maintain and look good over a long season.

Euonymous ‘Emerald & Gold’ is a low-growing, evergreen, hardy shrub which can take an amount of abuse and still look fine. The foliage is variegated as its name implies, and it has insignificant flowers during summer if not kept clipped. It will grow almost anywhere and lights up a dull area, especially when the low winter sun reflects off the leaves. Sometimes, the leaf edges can be tinged reddish during cold weather. If it starts to creep where it’s not wanted, merely snip it back into shape with secateurs.

Galium odoratum (Sweet Woodruff) this native perennial loves a ‘woodland’ situation and can cover a shady area under shrubs and trees quite quickly. It can be invasive but is easy to pull up. It has pretty white flowers in spring/early summer. The whole plant is sweetly scented with hay and used to be strewn on floors in medieval homes to disguise nasty smells!

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Alchemilla mollis (Ladies Mantle) - this hardy perennial is only invasive if you let it go to seed, so make sure you cut off all the flowers before this happens! The leaves are particularly beautiful, being grey/green and soft to the touch (mollis means soft) and look particularly beautiful when morning dew has settled on them.

Geranium nodosum - very hardy with attractive bright green leaves and pretty lilac/mauve flowers in summer, and there are also varieties with white or purple flowers available. Forms a neat ‘clump’ and will seed itself politely. Tolerates quite deep shade and moist soil, but not waterlogged.

Cornus Canadensis - this is a groundhugging dogwood, believe it or not, with typical dogwood ‘flowers’ (actually bracts) of a greenish-white hue. It likes dappled, moist shade and creates a dense mass of foliage, with good autumnal tints typical of the Genus.

Pachysandra - grown mostly for its leathery, evergreen foliage, although it does have small, white flowers in spring.

This hardy perennial/sub-shrub is ideal for almost any soil except bone dry and will tolerate dense shade.

Fleur (Next month, ground cover for sunny sites)

Fabulous Freddie Checking In…

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ay has been an amazingly busy month as usual, with lots of ups and downs. I am pleased to say that a few of our kennel dogs managed to worm their way into new homes, but as always there are abandoned furbies looking to take their place; this month we have welcomed 4 collies into rescue. None of them have lived indoors so it is all new to them, and initially they were very timid, however they have settled well and have really come out of themselves. I am sure they won’t be waiting long.

Sadly the requests to take dogs in always exceed the number of spaces we are able to offer. This is mainly due to lack of funds rather than space, which is why our fantastic team of volunteers are always organising fund raising events. Talking of which we are looking for new volunteers to help us at ‘in store’ collection days, particularly throughout June. We always work in pairs and so if you are able to give an hour or so please do contact Aunty Lynne on 07971 461

Mill Street Part One

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806 – you might even get to meet me!

I am also planning to go to our Fun Dog Show at Westward Ho! on Saturday 2nd June, 12 noon onwards, so do come along and meet me – oh and I love treats!

It’s quite sad that many of the dogs that come to us do not get on with other dogs, usually due to not having been socialised as puppies. Fun dog shows are a great way of socialising your dog and having fun at the same time. There are lots of them throughout the summer, all usually raising funds for good causes.

Our next one after the June event is at High Bickington on Saturday 25th August – so if you can’t make the June event I would love to see you then.

Right I am off for a scamper in the woods; remember that if we are lucky enough to have warm weather, do the 5 second hand test on concrete. If it is too hot for your hand then it is certainly too hot for our paws, and it goes without saying that car journeys really should be a no, no.

Enjoy the June sunshine and I will be back in July.

Licks & woofs from the rather handsome Freddie!

ill Street is a very old street of access.

There is a ‘drangway’ wivesbetween shop to their hea Community Information mainly terraced houses,which numbers 84 and 86 leading The up toCentre Mill is avail Centre drops down the hill from the Street common and a steep pathwayafter 4pm, meetings, (opposite Sydney House Car Park, town to the river. It starts from the down towards the river between evenings on most da next to 'Panamart') corner of South Street and We Halsdon numbers 101 and that 103. occasional Saturdays are delighted to announce or training Terrace, and winds downthe to the site of group Some of the houses, on the days. Ple 'Esteem' - to support those mainly email: kizangell@btcon the old ruined dairy at Taddiport.

The north side of the street, have a well suffering with mental health difficulties, Methodist Chapel is at the top and the indoors or in the garden and there used depression, fatigue, pain or anxiety Charity Xmas Ca Torridge Inn is at the bottom. to begrants wooden doors under the has been awarded from thein the wall for ofgood ca The road is narrower and steeper at Trustpavement led to waterCards supplies Rural Devon (through which the Devon Trade gifts will be on s the top where it is some sort.

Community and from “Mill StreetFoundation) was the escape Bideford from 2 one-way only from Therechurch has been a Awards For All. th route

by Royalist where Warren Lane change7in December, usage in Monday We cantaken now buy laptops, enabling Saturday 10amsoldiers the west joins Mill Street. the buildings the group tofleeing use thetointernet in ordermany to of4pm, charities to select your help them anthe integrated their become defeat at Battle and However, people have after over the years. Barns an interesting selectio accepted part of our community.

They been seen driving and sheds have of Torrington in 1646.” many parts of the world will be able to engage a support worker down: during the been incorporated assist with form-filling, producing a and businesses snow in 2010; when roadtoworks closed into houses, and shops searching forhave education courses Dolton Ca New Street in 2011 and aCV, complicated disappeared.

Number 130 used to will be able be toa search torches, dr diversion was set up; andand at other times, fish andfor chiplocal shop andFlaming at number work. group of has and fireworks if the fancy takes them! voluntary or paid 29, onThe the corner Sandfords Gardens,will give drop-in days three times a week, (see Mill Street was the escape route was a shop selling groceries, bread village a bl which a 'listening ear', There were four next month. taken by Royalist soldiersdiary) fleeing to theinclude and general supplies. from the community who the is Torridge Inn Dolton’s an west after their defeat at someone the Battle of other pubs besides happy to sit and chat, for those feeling Torrington in 1646. Originally, all the in the 19th century: the Canal Inn atwhich dates lonely and low. times, will be houses were thatched; some of them number 120 (which burnt down in 1859), The Centre also offers free legal S up until the 1960s, but the only thatched the Greyhound, the Nelson and the N i g h t , advice, and tenancy and debt advice, November, w buildings remaining are Rose Cottage Plymouth (behindRev. Mill House). by appointment, (see diary). festivities an and the Torridge Inn down at the bottom The in high was known Graham Slingo comes forpavement a coffee (which interest this year. of the street. ‘thestarted course’)a on the north side of the and chat, and weas have book Farmer Ralph Gent, Those houses on the south of street had railings added some 25 years club side for young people (read a book figures behind the Dow the street have very steep gardens so ago and ramps built down to the over a week ororfortnight and dog show in Jun plunging down to the commons by the roadway.

Mill Street finale then come in and chat People who lived theinspectacular river, while those on the other of thea drink as children aboutside it over and in the 1950s, remember worth of fireworks will street have gardens sloping up toontheThursdays playing out in the street (when cakes) after sky. they Mill Street common to thes cnorth. apples from h o o lSome / c o l l e g weren’t e.

Oscrumping n The Pipe & Drum of the old houses have been divided into butand there Saturdays, gentsSandfords’ can sit orchards nearby) Band Torrington A readjoined with a coffee, or traffic and toowill two, while others are twoand houses is too much many parked all be taking par books from our into one, and gardens arebuy often irregular carscharity for that to be possiblethrough these days. the village, a bookshop Moira Brewer in shape with complicated rights of 'Book Relief UK', while their brightly-lit floats, inclu

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Unit 2C Hatchmoor Industrial Estate Torrington EX38 7HP Open Tuesday to Saturday

Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group

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e are a friendly and informal group set up to preserve longstanding ties between these twin towns in Devon and Finistère. We work alongside other organizations to support community events, take part in charity quizzes and help co-ordinate cross-channel visits by diverse clubs and organisations from the area.

The Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group membership is still growing, and we continually welcome interest from prospective new members. Our current members range from 10 years of age upwards and some speak French and some don’t.

The French Visit May Fair We hosted fifteen French visitors over the May Fair period; some joined us for breakfast in the Black Horse and then enjoyed the outstanding entertainment throughout May Fair Day. On the Friday we hosted a social in the Castle Hill Centre (photo above) and we enjoyed the delights of a first class buffet, contributed by all of our members.

Many of us then moved on to the Plough Arts Centre, where we enjoyed a superb performance by Harriet.

On Saturday, we ventured to Appledore and broke through the sea fog on the ferry to Instow. It turned out to be a glorious day, with good food and drinks enjoyed both sides of the water. Returning to Torrington for the Carnival, there was much interest, laughs and pleasure in what was an outstanding procession.

Sunday was very much a ‘do as you wish’ for our host families. It could be clearly seen, that when boarding the coach for Plymouth Ferry Port, our French guests had enjoyed a thoroughly good time and we were all quite emotional saying our farewells; until next time.

We are now looking ahead to our involvement in local events, village fetes and of course some fundraising. Please get in touch if joining our group is of interest to you.

For more information on any of the above, please contact: Antony Jefferies (Secretary), 01271 549454, email: antonyandcynthia@hotmail. co.uk Nick Roberts (Chair), 01805 625765, email: nickandanne1620@btinternet.com

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Parkinson’s Group Spring Fayre

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he Torridge Branch of Parkinson’s UK would like to thank everyone who supported and donated to the successful fundraising fayre on Saturday 28th April at Weare Giffard Village Hall.

We are pleased to announce we raised a record breaking £1740 on the day, proceeds which go towards providing social events and activities, and continuing support for people with Parkinson’s, carers and their families.

If you require information about the local support group, please contact the Secretary on 01237 478128.

Evening Garden Party at Stafford Barton, Dolton

Sunday 5th August from 6-9pm £5 at the gate which will be open from 5pm, EX19 8PW ander round the beautiful gardens; try your hand at croquet or garden skittles; or simply relax and listen to the music whilst you sip on a glass of wine sitting on the grass on a summer Sunday evening. (Please bring your own picnic blanket or chair.)

With The Dolton Rock Choir, Bob Emmanuel’s Jazz Band, Dolton Ukulele Band, Ashreigney Singing Ringers.

Wine, cheese and other refreshments available for purchase.

All proceeds to North Devon Hospice and St Peter’s Church, Dowland.

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ith two of the largest and most beautiful rose gardens in the UK, consistently voted one of the top ten places to enjoy the sights and scents of Britain’s best loved flower, join us for a month long celebration of the rose.

Rose Weekend on 22 -24 June featuring a floral-themed craft and food market with over 30 stalls in the Garden Room plus free, guided walks of our rose gardens with members of Rosemoor’s curatorial staff. Free, timed tickets available from the entrance Courtyard on the day.

Rosemoor’s Garden Kitchen will be celebrating roses throughout the month with a delectable series of rose-inspired and rose-infused treats, from rose meringues, rose and rhubarb cakes, to the restaurant’s much-lauded Turkish Delight Coffee.

‘Rosemoor Late’ evening opening every Friday in July until 9pm with live music.

Enjoy the gardens at dusk as the roses release their evening perfume and listen to live music wafting out across the formal gardens as you enjoy a glass of wine or Pimms’.

Every Wednesday, an expert florist will demonstrate flower arranging techniques featuring roses during an afternoon Victorian tea followed by a Q & A session, £20pp plus normal garden admission.

Other June events

* 16 June 1940’s Dinner Dance. Live music from The South Devon Big Band and delicious three course dinner and 1940’s style dancing. See website for details, ticket only event. * 16 & 17 June Re-enactors from the Second World War will be encamped here at Rosemoor to give visitors an interactive idea of what life was like for ordinary soldiers, medics and civilians during these periods in English history. * 22 June ‘Wuthering Heights’ by William Shakespeare - Outdoor Theatre from Illyria Theatre. To buy your tickets, visit ploughartscentre.org.uk or phone the Plough Box Office on 01805 624624 * 30 June & 1 July Carnivorous Plants Weekend. Find out more about these fascinating plants with the Devon Carnivorous Plants Society, who will be on hand to give advice and information from 1-5pm, with talks/presentations at 2pm and 3:30pm.. * 30 June Armed Forces Day. 100 red ceramic poppies by artist Renée Kilburn will be on display to start our commemorations of the centenary of the end of the First World War. Armed forces personnel have free admission to Rosemoor today – simply bring ID.

Free Books & Crafts in

National Bookstart Week!

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t’s National Bookstart Week from 4th

to 10th June. Aimed at encouraging a love of books in children under 5, all Devon libraries will have a limited number of free books to give away. This year’s book is called ‘A Busy Day For Birds’ by Lucy Cousins (famous for Maisy Mouse). Some libraries will also have colouring in and crafts to go with the theme.

Appledore Library is teaming up with the Poppins Parent and Toddler Group on Monday 4th June from 10-11am, and will have a special story time, music and crafts session at the library, then it’s back to St Mary’s Hall for snacks and playtime 11am-12pm For more info on National Bookstart Week go to www.booktrust.org.uk

A Hele

W wat Sep Bide with the B sup Gan trad kind the Fair form finis It w froc ‘Sou We day and that won silve trad hard Gre the to fi – ou O

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Event details: Thursday 7th June 2018 5-8pm at Great Torrington School (Hatchmoor Road entrance).

Contact details: email: admin@gts. devon.sch.uk. Please like our Facebook page – Fyranite Music Festival.

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Entertaining Evenings with the Little Torrington WI

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splash of colour was the theme of our recent meeting. What a great evening, Debbie Flint our guest speaker, entertained us whilst our own members put on a wonderful show with some singing, sketches and poems. We had spent many months preparing for this event and were delighted that all our efforts and hard worked had paid off.

We continue to meet monthly in Little Torrington, and our meetings are well attended. We have also continued with our regular events such as book club, skittles and ‘ladies that lunch’. Coming up we have our Annual Meeting which gives us all a chance to pause, reflect and celebrate our achievements, but also to plan for the year ahead.

The Little Torrington WI meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in the Victory Hall at Little Torrington. If you are interested in coming along you will be most welcome. For more information call President, Sally Ramsden on 01805 623152.

Busy Times for the Boxing Club!

T

he boxing club has enjoyed getting involved in local events this month and would like to thank everyone who took part!

We helped with the Torrington Town Tidy at the end of April and what a success it was! Coaches, boxers and parents all got stuck in to help the town look its very best. Well done to Cllrs Keeley Allin, Gill Clayton and Chris Bright for organising such a fantastic event, and to so many different people in the community for getting involved.

Next was the annual ‘Round The Tree’ race, and the club saw a brilliant turnout of club members, with our men and women winning both the women’s and men’s group prizes. We’d also like to thank Torrington Running Club for letting us take our juniors on the run together after the official junior race, they all thoroughly enjoyed it and it was lovely to watch them as they turned and ran together down the final stretch.

The day after the tree race was, of course, the carnival, many thanks all those who joined in, to head coach Heath Pettifer for organising it and to Jayne Wafforne for driving the minibus. Coach Wayne Hill also informs me that this year’s annual charity day for Children’s Hospice Southwest is nearly sorted so watch this space - what’s it going to be this year?!

The competitive boxing season has finished now for the summer, but we are continuing with training sessions to keep the boxers fit, and also have Ned Pettifer and Nicole Wafforne-Lock entered into some box cup competitions over the next few months.

Many thanks for your support and as always, everyone is welcome regardless of age/gender/ability. £2.50 per session and no membership fees.

Torrington Amateur Police Boxing Club

24

Torrington Memory Café

I

n May the customers at the memory café enjoyed a game of musical bingo at the first meeting, and a James Ravilious photos reminiscence session at the second meeting, facilitated by Sophie Hatch.

In June the activities are chair exercises on the 7th and a ‘Devon Remembers’ reminiscence session on the 21st.

The memory café offers peer support which helps to promote self-care, independence, wellbeing and choice.

We enable people to meet regularly with others and provide an informal environment in which to find information about dementia/memory loss, practical tips about coping with dementia, a social network as well as a forum where advice can be given by health and social care professionals. It also offers emotional support and reduces social isolation You don’t have to have dementia to come and join us – there are various reasons for memory loss; stroke, head trauma or age-related memory loss. If you have any concerns about your memory you can talk to a NHS professional here at the memory café about your concerns and get advice and guidance.

For further information contact Pauline on 01805 625969.

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

through the village, a brightly-lit floats, inclu

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16 hat a season that was! high!

Despite us winning five Training will begin again, earnest, in even millions earlier times: to inthe Roman earned of dollars in royalties Enrico Caruso games, other teams won in late July, so as always the cry goes festival of Flora, goddess of fruit and th from the retail sales of the resulting (25last February –been Year have flowers.

This tradition, symbolizing rebirth more! The game 10 of the1873 season was out to all you budding, established 78rpm discs. In Italy in 1902-1903, he is particularly relevant to out us our today, asked write perAugust 1921) 2ndand at Wellington theytoneeded aabonus and players! cut returning five batches of Check records for the breathing new life into the winter of our suasive review about Part 2win to secure point promotion.

With a Facebook page, Torrington RFC, for G r a m o p h o n e a n d T y p e w r i t er community. a great there are for no fair shame or festival yetWhat another depleted team, Torrington details of upcoming training sessions Company.

He was later heard live from Moreover, in keeping with the spirit of digital mastered recordings of Caruso. their GCSE English assessment. travelled with a coachload of andstage get involved! also applies for the ofchildren the This Metropolitan rejuvenation, are the focalOpera point One cannot imagine how wonderful his supporters in high spirits. those of you who want to play fun Here is Charlotte’s timely reminder House in the first public radio of the festivities.

Much against Mr Gove’s voice Wellington soonwe secured rugby inTorrington’s our second schools team too.are of onewas. such fair shouldthe treasure. broadcast in 1920. better wishes, Caruso’s bonus point,25-year and thencareer, played stretching By the time this goes to In the next I will you about closed to issue allow full tell community fromrest1895 1920, included 863 some of his operatic roles. the ofOut theto game in true print our presentation participation.

What could be more Sending a Mayday appearances at their the New York Until then good listening appealing than watching the of rugby spiritSpring by taking evening willcrowning have taken For Our Metropolitan OperaFair before he died of the May Queen? The procession of boys Bob Dymond foot off the gas, whilst place; awards will we allow Torrington’s to anCan infection at the age of 48.tradition His fame and girls in brightly costumes our players enjoyed havecoloured been presented, dwindle? has lasted to the present day, despite would melt any heart.

Ribbons rippling, the game formarketing what it and anecdotesW.I. will have been Torrington What picture comes into promotional your mind the limited skirts skipping and the band blasting: the was.

With the score line told and elaborated upon.

Much when you think of Torrington’s May Fair?

Our Annual Meeting will take place avenues available to him. He was, maypole is ceremoniously woven. th For many it is60 thea image the at 75-3 after minutes, banter have exchanged November.

We are will onJust Wednesday 9 nonetheless, clientofthe of maypole, Edward as the will colours onbeen the maypole laughter and sunshine; would be captains to call it ait day. in what promises tobreaks be a adown beFair electing new Bernays decided during the latter’s tenure as a intertwined, so the May difficult to imagine Torrington without it.

President and Victory celebrations good night’s entertainment. social barriers as it appeals press agent in the ensued USA. Publicity in Yet today, our and historic tradition is committee for the with the hosts, then the coach We will have also held our to everyone.

Choirs, dance Caruso’s time relied newspapers, under threat.

It is easy on to allow following year, took the players and supporters Junior Presentation Night.

Where groups and majorettes all particularly wire services, magazines, the pressures of modern life to taking a alook back take all to those the stage: feast for on a tour of hostelries who have photography and the telephone. slowly strangle our cultural allbit, we have eyesattheir and ears.

“Our proud en-route back to fast age ofPierre big Local or Caruso’s biographers, Key, boast of the the done heritage.

In this dignitaries are happily experienced in the last year and then Bruno Zirato and Stanley Jackson Torrington. was that we were small, will be rewarded high-tech gadgetry, massseason pelted inTorrington the of stocks and getting a sneak preview speakers attribute his fame not only to his voice So that’s it, back with RFC’s media and instant able to put out booked a squad for subjected to duckings.

The for 2012.

Cups and prizes will and musicianship, to a keen gratification, there is but little also time down to a revamped hospitality, and medals ALL of our fixtures, so well Mayor has awho lavish lunch, to be awarded for those did best in business sense an embrace of left for League what really Devon 1 andmatters: will haveare been awarded which many invited.

The done then to allinour players, you our optional monthly competitions, and community life.

Today, more commercial sound recordings, from which we were tocrier ALL players atas a night bellows he will, course, be time for tea heads upoftown than ever,atitthe is end essential tocan hold its infancy.

Many well-known operayourthere promoted for them to remember. proudly marches the streets and a natter. keep our historic celebration alive.

Our singers of Caruso’s of last season.

On thetime rejected thehigh!”

The junior of Being his predecessors The teams Torrington rather nifty and at getting through week of annual festivity andfosters phonograph (gramophone) their SilverU7s, Band pulsates like the beating plus side, the revamping of League 1 from U8s and U11s recently took the business side of things, we will also friendship, a sense of belonging andbut a voices have been lost as a result, heartinofathe community. means there are more teams to play part rugby tournament hosted link withsingers our past.including We cannot let this Patti, die. manage a bit of time to welcomebyBob other Adelina The grand finale of the May Fair week against the forthcoming season.of our Bideford RFC. Thisgive wasus held over the As youinwalk the cobbled Brewer, who will the Francesco Tamagno and streets Nellie Melba is theMay carnival, aHoliday spectacle of low-down lightand and Which will mean more games at early Bank weekend, ancient town, you breathe antiquity.

The on the Fanciful Cavaliers. exploited the new technology once sound. floats journey through the Donnacroft; you present-day can come along to enjoy teams from theincountry took part.

May links Torrington We whilst startallthe atover 7pm the lined Methodist they Fair became aware of the success of town streets are with with the past, transporting us to acracking bygone the hospitality and watch some In blistering weather our boys acquitted Church Hall, and prospective members cheering children. In the packed town Caruso’s recording sessions. era – when life wasboast simpler. rugby.

Ourmade proud of the260 season themselves admirably, giving are veryyou welcome visit for free.

Any square, have notochoice butthe to mingle Caruso more that extant Torrington has hosted May was that we were able tothe putannual out aVictor squad opposition a good run fortheir their subs money. newmake members paying this and new friends. recordings in America for the Fair However, many for ALLsince of our 1554. fixtures, so well(later done to all Well done all those who took part, a of month, get months for theee!’ priceThe ‘Uz beto 14 plaised to zee Talking Machine Company, RCA celebrations in England have their origins 12.

How about that!

Mayor’s welcome banner in thick our players, you can hold your heads up truly fitting end to the season.

Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he

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Our previous Chairman and Vice Chairman Rob and Adrian th Bewes Devonian dialect is strung across the November there will be a On the 16 Avery, have been nominated for their square – Torrington is known as a lunch at Barnstaple in aid of ACWW, friendly town andforthis is no better outstanding efforts grassroots the Associated Country Womenrugby of the displayed than at the May Fair.

In this era inWorld, the Mitsubishi of whichMotors the WIVolunteer nationally is a of social isolation, the May Fairis provides Recognition Programme. member.

Not widely This known, the the medicineinitially, of friendship, inclusion and recognised, at an evening ACWW has representatives from many support. The fair encourages community function in Exeter, then progressing to of nationalities; working relief life as the young and oldtowards join together for Twickenham with a full blown awards poverty and sickness, promoting health the common good. What better way is ceremony. and advancing education.

It’s down-tothere to bring neighbours together?

We are always forand volunteers earth approach offersfarmutual support People come looking from wide to and practical to Fair. women and toenjoy helpthe outdelights off thehelp field, particularly the of May Theyinalso communities across the them! world. bring theirwemoney with The fair bar where are looking for a volunteer replenishes the coffers of the ofand townthe – To findtoout about theaspects ACWW manager cover most providing welcome boost the for local Women's Institutes nationwide, visit running theaclub bar, and alsotostaff economy – and suchthe a help in difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk match days occasional function.

Businesses use about the carnival as W.I. an Any queries Torrington If you are interested in these posts opportunity to advertise their wares. ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on please callalso Adrian Averycollection on 0778 tins 065 are Charities benefit: 01805 623588.

378. soon full to overflowing.

As clubhouse is available for Yetusual it is our often argued that historic celGreat Torrington your function. ebrations are archaic and anachronistic.

Town Hall Project Teamwork, Sportsmanship, Discipline, On the contrary, Torrington’s festivities By the time reportIn appears in revitalise the old this traditions. the current Respect and Enjoyment. climate ofC’mon apathy, and The Crier, you will laziness have Waterson noticed Torrie!

Mark indifference, the been May Fair scaffolding has put lifts our spirits and Torrington up totransforms facilitate the repair into a vibrant community. of the roof andDespite make thethe continual development of modern building water-tight fortechnology and increasing time spent at computer Barton Barn Bash the winter. It will bePresents screens, last year’s record-breaking enclosed in waterproof ABBA - Chique Chique turnout shows there is the still aworking place forarea live th sheeting to protect July 14 from 7 until late at Barton entertainment. Given the choice of and to minimise any risk to the internal Farm, Giffard. playingWeare a video game or participating in fabric.

At the same aDevon series of The event is in aid oftime, North the buzz of the fair, I know which I would photoelectric will beBar installed, to Hospice, with panels tickets £10. and food choose… reduce running-costs, and perhaps Today, the newwill enemy available.

There also of beaalarge-scale draw and provide an is income forand the Safety’. project As by town event ‘Health auction tickets on sale. sellingcrowds surplus power to thebeNational huge gather, it could argued Come along and help raise money Grid.there is a danger of an accident. that for our local hospice. To book tickets Although with this all work being carried Nowadays, theisridiculous rules contact Sharon 07943 033 057 payment or out by the Townlands and regulations it is Trust, a struggle to Jenny 479594. will be01237 taken from funds set aside organise anything.

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

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oung Musicians Support, part of the Dartington North Devon Charitable Trust, is co-operating with The Plough to was at Hatherleigh Community Centre Mayor’s Diary present a short series of ‘International Classics’ to see many concerts of their residents receive Another hectic month has passed. this summer. Each of them is linked to an outreach activity in a This is similar to Community Awards.

Helen and I have represented the school and all profits will be ploughed backthe into awards the work we of the have in Torrington, Town at many civic charity. This is primarily financial assistance to families people towards the which recognise whocost have events, givingincluding of specialist music lessons and the purchase of instruments.

The cost of musical made a difference to their town. church services for the education of talented be quite a burden for parents.

It was lovely to at last welcome, and Chairschildren of Northcan Devon with, Induction of The first concert has already taken place,be butinvolved the second is onthe Thursday District Council and Father Lawrence MacLean.

We hope 21st June at St. Torridge Michael’s Church in Torrington and features the prize-winning District he and his family will be very happyby in Council.

Romanian pianist George Todica. He will play an exciting programme of works our intown, andhethe Fete at the We enjoyedGranados a trip toand Bideford Rachmaninov, Chopin.to Earlier the day willChurch give a masterclass a good watch their College, Regattato and on from 10ththereVicarage at Shebbear pianists and otherwas schools in opportunity the area. for us all to meet them.

September watched the spectacular Tickets are available from The Plough, on 01805 624624 or on their website The Co-op and Town Traders Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, www.theploughartscentre.org.uk. arranged a Harvest Festival in the with visiting bands coming from all over Pannier Market on the UK. the 11th September.

BarnstapleHo! Fair Beach is always a wellWestward Dog Restrictions was the on firstWestward Ho! supportedntilday, with all the there “Chain 30th of September will beThis dog restrictions one organised andPublic I Gang” out in force to celebrate beach and promenade.

Thethe restrictions relate to the Spaces think it will become a tradition of the Fair.Order, The weather was Protection which was passed earlier this year following a public event on the kind as we walked around town, whilst dogregular consultation, and replaces the previous control orders.

Torrington calendar. theAlthough declaration of the opening of the under a new title the controlled areas are the in previous Finally, wesame tried as to attend as many Fair was read. Immediately after the years. During the restricted period dogs willMacmillan be allowed at the north endasofpossible the coffee mornings formal part of the proceedings had beach between Sandymere Bridge and the Taw/Torridge estuary.

At the same time and in fact ended up going to five! finished, we dashed down to Newquay. dogs will be prohibited on the beach to the south of Sandymere Bridge and will be This is a wonderful charity and it‘s not It was time for Helen to put on a ‘posh need to on a lead on the promenade.

The order allows for well fixed supported. penalties surprising that it’s so frock’ forbea kept reception celebrating the After allcomply those coffees went to New the of £100West to be issued in cases where owners fail to with the we restriction.

‘South in Bloom’ competition.

Soap Kitchen shop to see Lesley and signage is in to place clearly restricted areas.

We still had waittountil the identify following Richard Phillips who celebrated ten day to hear the results, and were proud years of business on 30th September. and delighted when it was announced ThetheUmberleigh Garden 4th August Congratulations to you both. that Torrington in Bloom teamShow had Saturday I look forward to hearing from you if won a Silver Gilt (last year it was Photography Competition you have an event or its anniversary silver). Thank you the to the committee, nce again, Umberleigh Garden Show will be hosting popular you want to tell me about – just call me traders and individuals who work so Photographic Competition, so now’s the time to start hunting for this 01805 625662, or our secretary, hard to enhance our surroundings in year’s ‘perfect picture’.

Pauline at the Council offices on 01805 Great We will haveP1 New ThisTorrington. year’s categories are:soon Adults: and Old; P2 Black and White; P3 626135. the opportunity of meeting the judges Three; P4 Action; P5 Within five minutes from home. Children: A dayRumbold out; P7 Councillor P6 Richard to find out how we can do even better Joy; P8 Transport; P9 My Favourite Place Town Mayor – our next challenge is GOLD!!

Watch out for the full show schedule, to be issued in June, with details of how to Our last out-of-town engagement enter, or check the website www.umberleighvillagehall.co.uk

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O

Great Torrington Heritage Museum Open!

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he news you have all been waiting for! The museum is now open until the end of October so do come and look around the new layout and displays. We have a lift which Sirtake Duke again – wow how can you here up to the Grade 2* listed quickly month goesHouse, by! Well Autumn building,a The Market and also is definitely round the first floor where you canupon see us and many and read all about the Civil War in theof the rescue dogs Town. are gaining their We have a couple of talks organised winter coats in in July. The first one is on Thursday 5th readiness for the July given by Alan Crawley, onset ofmember Winter! of the Commons Conservators. willasbe We haveAlan been talking about the creatures living in the busy as ever with river and the problems the Conservators three new dogs being taken whoand were duethey to be putto face with theinriver, what hope to sleep in– the I don’t really know whynear as achieve future.

As we all live they are lovely and very friendly – they the Torridge we should be interested in even like what is inchildren! it and how we can help to look Bruno, after it. our 12-month-old puppy that needs an eye is 26th still The second talk isoperation, on Thursday bouncing around and we are well on July by Harry Juniper, the famous Potter our way to raising the £3,000 needed from He will bring his son with for hisBideford. operation. him and he will set up a film as recorded by We have been chosen one of the BBC about himself and his pottery. three charities to participate in a Then he willscheme talk aboutrun when was an fantastic byhe Animal evacuee in Torrington.

I am sure Friends Insurance.

Basicallyit will thebe a very interesting evening. charity that receives the most votes gets a whopping £5,000.

So come on Both talks will be in the Market House all you Facebook please for starting at 7pm, thefans, doors to thevote museum us, andopen pass the word all will be at 6.30pm foraround tea andtocoffee. your friends and family.

It is simple There will be a £3 charge per person.to We vote, and costs Just go to:you all. very much look nothing. forward to seeing www.facebook.com/feelgoodpark and Opening times for the museum: on the left-hand menu you will see Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at ‘Vote for Charity’. Click this and it will 10.30am 4pm. Wednesday, and take you tothrough to a page Friday showing Saturday, 10.30pm to 1pm charities in the scheme. Then click on Val Morris

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Get Together Friends June Events

*Tuesday Enrico 5th - Jurassic Coast Boat by volunteers with Caruso their own friendly, trip.

Fully booked.

The pick-up times th temperament-tested and 1873 vaccinated (25 February – will be from 8.15am.

So we should all be nd dogs and cats.

August on Since board at 2Exmouth for an1921) 11 o‘clock Part 2 it’s beginning over 22,000 PAT sailing.

Let’s hope forregistered a sunny day and a dogs have been What a great shame thereinto are the no calm sea.

Pets As Therapy scheme.

Every year digital mastered recordings of Caruso. *Sunday 10th - Beetle Drive at the some of these retirehow and new dogs, One cannot imagine wonderful his Bickford Centre in South Street.

No having first been examined and passed voice was. admission but career, remember your onCaruso’s health,charge, temperament, suitability and 25-year stretching stability grounds, join Petsincluded As Therapy. bring sharetotea.

Spaces are limited, fromand 1895 1920, 863 Today there are currently so you must reserve seat. appearances at your the Newaround York 4,500 active12th PAT dogs 108 *Tuesday – visiting lunch will be atdied the Metropolitan Opera before heand of PAT cats in1pm. the UK. Every an infection atwork thefor age of 48.

His£7.50. fame Puffing Billy.at12.45 Cost week these friendly dogs and has lasted tocalm the present day, despite Contact Marcia or Val for menu choices, cats give more than 130,000 people, the limited marketing and promotional booking and payment. Please remember both youngavailable and old, to the pleasure and avenues He will was, that we cannot guaranteehim. that you sit chance to cuddle and talk to them.

The nonetheless, a client of Edward with your friends. bedsides that are each year Bernays during the visited latter’s tenure as a *Saturday 23rd - Table Sale at the number a staggering halfTop million. press agent in the USA. Publicity in Torridge Vale Social Club, 2-4pm, tables Sick patients and Caruso’s time often relied feel on isolated newspapers, are limited.

Get your booking in early. even the most withdrawn seem to open particularly wire services, magazines, Admission include tea orwhen coffee up and let £1 theto barriers down their photography and the telephone. regular Pets As Therapy visiting dog is and a slice of cake, apologies for the Caruso’s biographers, Pierre Key, around. dogs bring everyday life necessary change of date.

Bruno These Zirato and Stanley Jackson closer and with allfilm the happy The date and title not ofit the the attribute his fame only toathis voice associations for them of and musicianship, but please also tocheck ahome keen Plough is to be advised, comforts. constant companionship business sense and an embrace of the BickfordThe Centre window. of an undemanding animal, thatthen gives commercial sound recordings, in Thank you to The Royal Exchange unconditional love, iswell-known often one of the its infancy.

Many opera for hosting our lunch in May, it was an most missed aspectstime of rejected their lives. singers of Caruso’s the excellent meal and the raffle prizes Pets As Therapy was formed to were help phonograph (gramophone) and their appreciated. make bearable voices this haveloss beenmore lost as a result,and but Marcia and Val can be contacted at speed other recovery. singers including Adelina Patti, the Bickfordwas Centre on South Street, Buttons the first Pet Nellie As Therapy Francesco Tamagno and Melba on Wednesday between in North Devon and Josie the first in exploited the mornings new technology once 10a-12pm.

Torridgeside.

Thereof the have been they became aware success of outstanding resultsthat with the Read2 Please remember Marcia’s home Caruso’s recording sessions. programme in isour schools, which has phone number not to be used forextant club Caruso made more that 260 no sponsorship conditions and Victor business.

TheinClub phonefor number ishas recordings America the helped many children to learn to read.

Talking Machine Company, (later RCA now Marcia’s mobile number 07881 875 The dogfrom acts1904 as ato non-judgmental Victor) 1920, and he 846. listener and offers comfort to those

earned of dollars in royalties who find millions reading stressful. from theand retail the resulting Come seesales us atof Green Lanes 78rpm discs.

In Italy in 1902-1903, he Shopping Centre on Sunday 19th May cut five batches of records for the 10-30am-4.30pm. Enquiries; K Moore G r a m 624739 o p h o n eNorth and T y pArea e w r iCoter 01805 Devon Company.

He was later heard live from Ordinator PAT. the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House in the Farmhouse, first public radio East Woodlands broadcast in 1920.

Alverdiscott, Open Garden In thegarden next issue I will tell youforabout This will be opening the some of time his operatic second as partroles. of the National Until then good on listening Garden Scheme Saturday 8th and th Sunday 9 of June 2013Bob fromDymond 2-5pm

each day.

Torrington W.I. Five miles

NE of Our Torrington, Annual Meeting will take place Great five miles south of November.

We will on Wednesday 9th B3232 Barnstaple off the at Windmill be of electing new Cross along one mile single atrack and road. Postcode EX31President 3PP for the Richard and Ann committee welcome you to following year, their sculptured gardens, extending to taking a look were back just over an acre. The gardens all we have created in 2006 atfrom a blank experienced in have the last year and then landscape and been transformed getting a sneak of speakers into a hidden oasispreview of swaying grasses, booked for 2012.

Cups and prizes will spectacularly architectural bamboos be awarded for terraces. those who did garden best in and cool-to-hot Little our optional rooms createmonthly hidden competitions, gems where and the there can will, sit of and course, for tea visitor enjoybethetime tranquillity andthe a natter. of garden as it blends with the Beingtireless rather nifty at getting through rolling, views.

A pond area the business side (unfenced) andof things, still weinwill also its manage a bit ofstages, time to welcome developmental provides Bob an Brewer, willfor give us the low-down area of who shade gunnera and bog on the A Cavaliers. plants. potager’s delight.

We start 7pm and in the Methodist Entry costsat £3.50 teas will be Church Hall, andwill prospective members available.

There also be plants for are very welcome to visit for free. Any sale. new paying their subsEast this For members further information about month, get garden 14 months for theopen pricefor of Woodlands and others 12. How about Garden that! the National Scheme visit www.ngs.org.uk

On the 16th November there will be a

Great Torrington lunch at Barnstaple in aid of ACWW, Memory Café Country Women of the the Associated

March’s memory World, of which the WI nationally is a café went Not with widely a member. known, the buzz despite having ACWW has representatives from many to cancel working the towards relief of nationalities; activity. poverty and sickness, promoting health A presentation took place John and advancing education.

It’s for down-toPortman who has nowmutual retiredsupport from earth approach offers being our Volunteer and and we and practical helpFundraiser to women are still trying across to recruit this post, so communities thefor world. if To youfind would like the to ACWW be partand of the a out about committed team of nationwide, volunteers visit to Women's Institutes www.theWI.org.uk provide this valuable service then please get in about touch. Torrington We are also Any queries W.I. looking for volunteers help with ring President, Joyce toRidgwell on memory café – if you can spare two 01805 623588. hours a month then please contact me.

We are looking forward to this Great Torrington month’s Town meetingHall where Annie Brierley Project will be reading short stories and By the time this report appears in poems. This will invoke memories and The Crier, you will have noticed raise discussions and should be a very scaffolding has been put enjoyable activity. up to facilitate the repair Dementia Awareness week takes of the roof and make the place in May. Along with the building water-tight for Alzheimer’s Society we are planning to the winter. It will be have an information giving presence in enclosed in waterproof the town square on Thursday 23rd May sheeting to protect the working area so do come along and find out more. and to minimise any risk to the internal The theme of this week is “Worry fabric. At the same time, a series of changes nothing. Talking changes photoelectric panels will be installed, to everything”. reduce running-costs, and perhaps May’s café meeting will be on provide an income for the project by Thursday 9th when David Clinch will be selling surplus power to the National playing guitar and pipes to entertain us Grid. all. Do come along and join in the fun Although this work is being carried as well as being able to access out by the Townlands Trust, payment relevant information and discuss will be taken from funds set aside for concerns with professional NHS staff. the project, which would have included Contact: Pauline Page 01805 625969

27 7 11

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www.slimmingworld.com Please bring voucher to claim.

ship News and chip supper on Friday Buying 17 Slave May Group Organic & Wholefood 013 Competition Entry Form l have come runners-up Condensation rising from 2013 whilst raising rogress on aawareness number of spinal ingredients. Next workshop Sunday 24th from Year 9 at Great

th

tournaments”.

Finding a home for Mary the club and its How do I join?

Contact as below writing competition: Strong ebony diamonds cord injury and supporting SIA’s members is a matter of urgency, so if of fronts!

Our main June.

If you’re interested in eating in a What does membership cost?

Free by the National Schools Beaten to a pulp. information and support you Ican please amount? contact No head Infinity services. more wholesome way, or perhaps have Must orderhelp a minimum ey Carter and supplier, Reuben You Wholesale, can‘Slave hold a now supper in your own coach Gavinevery Lanemonth? on 07901 some sort of health challenge, come and Must I order No 654 999 ed theirFoods poems The men come and home, at work or hold a larger supper email: Make‘Floral Promises’ into the supplies halfcan cases of us!

If I don’t order, can I still apply to share display’ include baskets, Takecontainers, people up hangingjoin at your community centre. torringtonpoliceboxing@gmail.com. n they were inlocal Year 8 packaged window boxes, ornaments.

Plants need not be bedding butWorkshops: Next tasters, their own brand Qi Gong someone else’s order? Yes We hear screams SIA provide a fundraising pack ve heard that will they are canproducts, include fruit, vegetables, herbs, perennials, shrubs. day and weekend workshop And they come down making sharing workshop How do I pay? BACS or cash on containing hints tips, be recipes, boysArtificial are delighted, and flowers are notand allowed!

All covered in cuts easier.

A good example would their 7th and 8th July at Langtree Parish Hall. collection invitations and donation envelopes.

By Amazon voucher each.

Red blood drips. range of organic gluten free flours, a Contact me to or for more information.

What if I need advice or have questions? artment is very proud inviting andbe asking them Can * category 3seven mustoffriends be viewed roadYou or Help half case being 3x able 500gtobags.

Onlinefrom the WellBeing Tip:the Smoothies are often Ring me now 01805 623 307, email ubenpavement, and thinks itanis additional to donate £5 say youa will Our new housekeeper is setThey don’t word thought ie, front garden.

Boxing Club Find a ordering is up and running for whole of as a convenient and enjoyable mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk. Here to nce again, work done £35, in but raise at least will also give tling in well and is enjoying the Likewe they half national cases, and we’re working on way consuming plenty of fruit and help.

NewofHome? s can and win you additional fundraising ideas to challenge of the job.

Buttoned up theiroflips. **‘Athe group’ must consist of a minimum two people (of anyQuite so, provided we avoid best way to incorporate shares, vegetables.

Torrington Police Amateur Boxing raise even more.

The Easter Coffee Morning was very age). determined to Where make this service turning them into another form offorjunkthe in The being Crier but raised Club faces homelessness arehelp we going Thebefore, money will the successful, Abbeyfieldwith over £500 being winning accessible poems: Injuries to all, including food full time of processed sugar and cheap On thissingle never ending trip? second in a year and is searching Spinal Association offer raised for the residents’ comforts fund. *** category 5 photographic must be a photograph of your esidents households. fat, with emptyhome calories. aware for laden ais permanent forBetraining individuals who name become We thank everyone ownsupport garden,to please ensure your and address on enjoyed the who came and knows We’re also achieving our goal that giving your taste buds sole control sessions. paralysed theirNo-one families, from the supported the event. Our next fund back of photo and (2 photos are allowed) May Fair Doesoccurs, anyone care? of servinga local businesses, withand of Since the recipe goodforced idea! Avoid too the isn’t club awas to leave ake promises moment spinal injury for raising effort will be a Garden Party in Flower Festival in Human faeces everywhere the Globe Hotel when it shut in , nothing but me. community benefit shop Nature’s much high calorie fruit; rather keep the the rest of6their the Summer. If you know of anybody ****category can lives. be a public allotment or a private garden the Parish Church rom downstairs.

January, theyvegetables have beentoo, using a room in Bideford ordering in May, balance with especially For contain more information or request a who might be interested in becoming a andNutrition can vegetables and fruit.

It cannot be a Do the men live like this? and someplease went out being called, in Torrington TownasHall asdandelion a temporary enabling them to access particular leafy greens such kale, fundraising pack call resident, ring the housekeeper commercial enterprise butElizabeth can be a Wright group or individual to watch the Carnival e phoneproducts for you!” measure, but have to leave there by on 0845 0714350 or email without a minimum order leaves, spinach etc.

Lemon is alkalizing on 01805 623605 for further effort. It must be your own allotment/garden, or group Quick!

Shh! th procession. Everyone enjoyed the visit April.

30the fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk or information. value or carriage charge.

The shop has to body, and ginger root lends spice allotment /garden of which you are an active participant.

Here they come hone, thevisit voice said… of the May Queen, Crowner, Heralds Club coach Heathcliffe Pettifer said www.siafishandchips.co.uk. just celebrated its first as a and warmth in cooler weather.

Absolutely Nobirthday more thinking. are you doing?” and attendants on the afternoon of the that the club has never been able to community enterprise, and we’re Youth Group News Needed! cut off your entry details and happy hand in toavoid the ice – all chilled food and drink is aven’tPlease heard in years. carnival. setofdown roots, having trained in four to be working together cooperatively.

In a note damaging the kidneys, which burst 1610 Torrington Triathlon They take you aat man The Crier would like to start a regular addresses supplied.

Make sure keep whichto sed to know.

Nationally, Abbeyfield Week is different venues And aat woman June I’myou invited toentered! speak Torrington into tears when yousince even being look at formed ice categories have section on youth activities in the Torrington Pool last year. celebrated from June 9th-16th and Wonder what will happen.

Together and look forward to meeting cream, being iced and hugely high in Torrington area.

5350 copies of The ow’s you?” rd June 2013 Sunday 23 He sugar. said: Superfood “Despite powders the relative the Torrington is marking the you have any queries, please contact: Crier are House distributed throughout owly,If“I’m fine, thanks everyone there. refined eg Torrington Terror: scenic, ruralbodies bike numbers of vacant properties in the occasion by inviting to visitthe Can seeTorrington black Cherry Hammon, Secretary, Torrington, and everyone all over Cooking Workshop: April’s workshopin Bloom moringa, spirulina, barley grass, maca and run courses.

Novice friendly, but town, the biggest challenge for the club As far as my eyes can see.

Glen Tor, Villa Road, for coffee and Association, on 01805 625788. surrounding rural area. featuring portable food went down very and cacoa make great additions. Bearing will you! is finding a new home. The committee cake on Saturday June 9th, of between aid very well, verychallenge slowly…

If you run a youth group any sort, as did lots of goodies!

We made: these points in mind, smoothies are a Man at my foot, whack! members, boxers and their supporters Distances n next week…”

10am and 12 noon.drama It will be including sport, orananything ultra-green complete lunch healthy, and enjoyable Cut sensation Swim 400m,smoothie, Bike 32km, Run 4.5km. includinguseful Function Fitness alternative and the opportunity to see the house and meet else, please send news, appeals and n: Name/Group: …………………………….……………. quinoa salad, sunset dip, butter beanon to snacks and lightworked meals, especially My foot leaking.

Notthesure about doing a triathlon Cavaliers, have tirelessly now to ince I heard voice. some of the residents, volunteers and information to: spread, pressed cucumber festival spice the warmer weather is on its way.

Water drips from my eye. make the club a success. The club self… your own? Why not enter as a relay staff. torrington.crier@gmail.com Email: ………………………………………………………………… muffins, flapjacks with a difference, Next bi-monthly order mises you can’t The keep.” team? perfect introduction to and the attracts up to 30 grocery members at any one Another for your Library, diary is August Drop it intodate Torrington or post Want mother.

Want chocolate and coconut protein balls in father. dates: 16th July, 17thtimes September,12th Harley Carter, sport of Triathlon. time, training three a week, and to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, 18th when we shall be holding our Man and whip dangerous …………..Contact telephone number: ……………………. two flavours.

Participants November.

Year 9 For more information orreceived to book ayour have more than half a dozen boxers EX38 8AA, or call 01805 603152. summer event from 12noon-3pm. full set–ofvisit notes on the techniques and Contact mecards now so you’re primed forin place www.1610.org.uk. with medical ready to compete There will be a barbeque, ‘Pimms on specific superfoods we used, recipes the new catalogue on 1st July. the lawn’, entertainment and stalls. and where to source the less common Buying Group FAQ’s

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Northam Lodge Events 40th Anniversary Fete

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North Devon Diversity Festival 30th June

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his year’s North Devon Diversity Festival starts with Barnstaple’s first Gay Pride march, starting at 10am outside Barnstaple library. We are so excited that this year’s celebrations are starting with a march, and hope that anyone interested in getting involved gets in touch with us.

Moving onto other Diversity Festival celebrations, we are looking for people to join the African drumming workshop at 1pm, on the library stage. This free workshop will be led by professional drummer, Greg White of Bristol based band – Helele - one of our headline acts this year. The African drumming will be leading this year’s Festival Parade that takes place straight after the workshop, at 2pm.

Please get in touch if you would like a free place, as spaces will be limited to the drums and percussion instruments available. Please let us know if you can bring along your own instruments.

We are also looking for people to volunteer to help us at this year’s Festival. This is a community event, and as such, we truly can’t put on the day on by ourselves without your help. If you are able to volunteer on Friday 29th June, anytime from 2-7pm, or else on Saturday 30th June from 9am onwards, please get in touch. Even a few hours really helps! We will be truly grateful to you, and we promise you’ll have a wonderful day with us, as well as helping to create this year’s Festival and making it a truly diverse, colourful, vibrant and uplifting day for our Northern Devon community.

Would you like to volunteer at this year’s North Devon Diversity festival on Castle Green? Please get in touch: email admin@northdevonsunrise or call the office on 01271 328 915.

Friends of Torrington Library

On Tuesday 5th June at 2pm, the Friends of Torrington Library are holding their AGM in the Black Horse, Torrington. If you would like to come along to see what we do, or have a say in what will happen in 2019, you are most welcome.

ur summer fete will be held on Saturday 21st July from 2-5pm in the grounds at Rose Hill, Heywood Road, Bideford.

There will be a variety of stalls to browse and fun and games for all ages.

Satisfy your appetite with hot dogs, ice cream and our own delicious cake stall.

Entertainment will be provided by Rob Pudner from Entertainingly Different, as well as the Dance Fit Belly Dancers amongst others.

This event will be bigger and better than anything we have previously held as it’s our 40th year, so please save the date and come along for a fun afternoon and support your local charity.

40th Anniversary Jazz Cruise on the MS Oldenburg

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ortham Lodge is celebrating its 40 year anniversary by hosting a fundraiser on the MS Oldenburg on Friday 15th June 2018 from 6.30pm. We will leave Bideford Quay for a two hour sailing around the Taw Torridge estuary.

The wonderful Alan Lewis All Stars Jazz Band have been booked to entertain you, and you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy alongside a fully licensed bar.

Tickets cost £16 (adult)/£8 (child) and can be purchased directly from our website at www.northamlodge.co.uk.

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Plasterer

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My Wonderful Work Experience

I

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

01805 603016

In our Year 10s have been

07813 257 471

spent my week working in the Nursery/Reception busy this term on their work class of Beaford Primary school. I had so much experience placements. Over fun, that now I know what I want to do in the future: the next few editions, we be a teacher. hope to share some of their On day one I joined in with a magnificent Maths fantastic adventures and the workshop and I helped the pupils create 3D cubes.

After that I played with the pupils and helped a young knowledge they’ve gained girl make a kite. We both attempted to fly it. But it didn’t from the process. Here is fly because it wasn’t windy enough! I also took three Amy’s account of her week at pupils outside to collect different types of plants and leaves in order to make a picture. The highlight to my Beaford Primary School: day one was making the pupils laugh.

On day two, I joined in with the tasks, for example I taught four pupils how to give each other instructions. I also contributed to the Reception in their PE lesson. We were throwing and catching bouncy balls. Then I helped the Nursery with their PE. They played Duck, Duck, Goose! When I got back from PE, I helped the Reception class with their spelling/grammar lesson. After lunch, I read books to some of the Nursery pupils which I loved because they enjoyed the story and reacted well.

On day three, I assisted the Nursery with their PE again. This time I was The Easter holidays feel like helping them with their ‘Log Rolls’. When we got back I let the pupils brush my a long time ago now! Here’s hair in their ‘Hairdressers – they absolutely loved this but for me, it was pretty Seth’s little poem about what painful! I even helped a young boy improve his spelling and he felt proud of what he’d achieved. In the afternoon we went out into the big playground, we he got up to – he was very played catch with the rugby ball. I told them to share it, which they did and I was busy! pleased that I got to show my authority and that they respected it.

On day four I joined the year 5/6 class, they did literacy and I helped them with THE EASTER HOLIDAYS metaphors and similes. Afterwards, I went back into the Nursery/Reception class and I read books to the pupils. Then we went outside to play with the balls and Cleaning my room bikes.

Painting over the mould On day 5 I helped the Nursery construct a marble run. Then I helped the In my mom’s bathroom Reception class with their Maths. I went in with the Nursery to do PE, they were And we are moving on the ropes swinging. Just before lunch I helped 2 pupils with their spelling.

And we are zooming though are list After lunch I played football with some of the boys. I also read stories to the And I found my watch pupils.

I put it on my wrist Overall, I really enjoyed my week because I have made good relationships And I found out with the staff and pupils. I have gained confidence and I can’t wait to start work That in my new house as a teacher. I have learned a lot about the challenges teachers face such as And its route how much patience is required to teach younger children and the amount of Is past an old house paper work they have to deal with. This doesn’t put me off though – I loved my Of mine experience so much I am willing to work hard to achieve my goal.

Amy Symons, Year 10 Seth Jepson, Year 7

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Year 9 have been writing stories using their knowledge of Victorian England, in preparation for studying A Christmas Carol. Here’s Tani’’s fantastic tale of one working class family in the 1800s: The Downfall of the Thatchings

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er pale forehead glistened with a cold clammy sweat, slowly lifting the needle, replacing the thread and setting the old machine off again.

The same repeated action, all day, every day. The same methodical hum of the mechanic beasts, all day, every day.

Eliza stopped for a second, just a glance, to see her small sooty son Benny, hardworking on a minute patch of tattered fabric. His face warped in pain as he pricked his finger on a small needle which smiled at him like a shark hunting its prey. A dingy window, high in the wall casted a dull shine off it as he glared at his feet. Her heart sank; he didn’t deserve the hard life which owned him. Not a single one of them did, but John had no work in West Country and so they had decided that they had no choice but to move to the big city, London.

Eliza sighed, she so dearly missed the chirp of the birds; the whisper of the wind in the grand oak; their ample sized cottage which made her so happy; the smiles of her beautiful children when they paddled in the fresh spring and most of all the feeling of the evening sun kissing your skin goodnight as it disappeared over the rolling hills of Devon.

Once John and Eliza came to terms with the fact they would soon leave paradise, they told their children that they were going on an adventure to

London. However great they made it sound the children begged them to stay in the countryside ‘where we belong’ Emma had cried.

Approaching London was awful, a black smog covered the old buildings which were squeezed into the smallest of alleyways creating a feeling to surge inside of you.

Hysteria. John looked at his hands as Emma started to cough, the pollution already filling her lungs, the beginning of her death sentence. The cart came to a slow outside a house which seemed to be full of life, but not good life. Their land and home hadn’t got them far in London, a small room in a mansion had been saved for them once they sold up. Not what they wanted but it would do.

“Back to work Mrs Thatching! Don’t forget how lucky you are to be earning!”

Eliza flushed, beet red creeping up her neck, she was horrified at herself for stopping. Fumbling to get the thread in place her heart sank, knowing she wouldn’t get a decent pay that day.

A scream broke her from her thoughts – she looked up to see a crowd gathering around the machine nicknamed ‘the splicer’; the machine little Benny had been working on only moments ago. In a daze she darted out

of the old wooden chair and towards the crowd. Her heart was hammering so hard, she could hear the rapid thrum in her head as she broke into the centre of the circle.

Benny! Benny!

Benny her head screamed! Horror consumed her, sick to the bone as she knelt beside his bloody body.

His small hand curled around his other wrist, knuckles turning white with force. Eyes clamped shut knowing what he would so or even worse what he wouldn’t see?

The contrast of his knuckles clutching what was now a stump, pumping out thick black blood seemed as white as paper. Slowly but surely his face relaxed into a calm manor as if he was sleeping.

“He’s gone.” A voice in the crowd whispered. Eliza hadn’t realised it but her daughter Emma was knelt beside her. A small sob escaped Emma’s mouth, all the time she had been strong and stood silently alongside Eliza and the moment of Benny’s death was her downfall.

All dressed in black the family of three stood over the fresh mound of dirt, tears slipping from their aged eyes and the setting sun kissing their skin goodnight.

Tani Johnson, Year 9

Est 1988

North Devon Landscaping

We offer a full landscaping service for:

•Traditional drystone walling • Paving • Block paving • Fencing and gates •All digger work • Seeding and turfing Professional year round landscaping Trevor Andrews Email: north_devon_landscaping@ hotmail.co.uk Mob: 07964 558 703 31

Torrington Slimming World Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street • Every Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Lisa 07515 256 965 • Every Thursday 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Norah 07789 632 166

The Crier Prize Sudoku This month’s prize is free registration and a 6-week block booking of slimming with Slimming World. Please send completed Sudoku with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com.

The winner of last issue’s prize Sudoku is Allan Marden of Umberleigh. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 14th June, the solution and winner will be in the July issue.

32

We are delighted to have this opportunity to introduce ourselves; Lisa Tucker and Norah Hale, your Torrington Slimming World Consultants, working as a team and running our groups at The Howe Concert Hall Castle Street on Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm and 7.30pm and on Thursdays at 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

We are both Slimming World members as well as being consultants, so we both understand the challenges members face every day on their weight loss journey. We are passionate about Slimming World food optimising; eating healthily and never being hungry; eating meals the whole family can enjoy.

Our prize for the winner of this competition is free registration and a 6-week block booking of slimming.

This may not be the prize for you, but could be a life changing gift for a friend or family member. This prize allows you to attend any of our groups at your convenience. Good luck looking forward to meeting you.

Lisa 07515 256 965, Norah 07789 632 166.

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April 25thProgramme Infants School every 6.30-8pm, New at Bluecoat Fifa 11 review on big Sci-Fiknow, movies, especially Star club‘Wine tocreative obtain his black belt. of whom arrived on site at 7.30am. thewaxy, surface of the soil.

As part of a successful and cushions of grey/green, fleshy leaves (which protect it from salt winds) and game comes highly recommended. that I have an incredible God who please contact us.

We also have Ra Sara-Jane Vanstone If you are interested in signing up to School years 1-6 Morag 01805 625510 Fund Fifa 11 is the latest football game for evening, Wars trilogy. recently completed his Children’s Centre!

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This game brings managing and My Second Birthday tin names help move the story forward; this makes Christmas Fair 5-7pm @ Torrington Ollie started Aikido in 2006 and trains discovering nature is a centre, or download from our website One idea was reducedstalls, tombola & loads worked on.

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If there is light Loss Support Group in Torrington winter.

Bideford Sustainability Group is more often, so if you are able to spare I was invited to go to a Christian oes flower from May to U) 8pm @ The Plough Bale and Bobbi Manning recently competed at the – surely itParody cannot continue to rainFifa 11Ifhas seasons and exploring how to use Fairtrade refreshments. brilliant characteristics; youmany are interested in any of these be to available.

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Year 5 This year start with our Golf Bluecoat Centre to enjoy football players from the style and colour jar of series, however, because these are 9.15ambook.

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Book see us at weekends. prizes andtaste a chance win ‘Theplay. with their crew ‘Union’; Yearown 3topupil Freddie came create and your edible fun and enjoyable.

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I also white forms and My new sportin As always our Facebook page The best feature of Fifa 11 is that you Commons’ Cup’.

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July 2013 and the June, 16I’m homes toforshow can of beteam done But can remember the singing wasownwhat bleMarket forms which can be world of Devon go can play your choice has updates website July when we will weekend 6/7 on the realisation of how attached to the while awake, al every Children willofbe able to play, explore, Bobbi andThurs Paige came 3rd with their crew ‘Solid8’. significant saving. Please contact us Thursday’s 10-11.30 am.

Sermon every Sun 10am Kind regards, Lyn - See Hear Centre to reduce energy consumption wonderful, but can’t remember ayour word sually characters at specialist plant Over which was from Leedsmany United to Liverpool orthis areand and how you find have ayou small marquee on The Old My dreams I will keep. has information on our railway www. discover and learn about the beauty of to take up special offer.

The commitment dedication given by all Streetz Our outreach sessions are Torrington Community Church Viv 373 Jones - Bluecoat Children's Office: 01271 236 from the grid.

Billywith Graham spoke. owering stems risethey up isto to Manchester United, there Cricket C agreeing with what Tim (Simon Benson, Bowling Green to Bluecoat house a Infants display, andMacclesfield tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk oddleryourself Group at nature as interact the wild will be holding a Fairtrade ‘Beetle OliVillage crew members admirable. continuing including We well-attended School every Sun Centre Leader and allYear the staff at 515 809 There are numerous householders th Mobile: 07831 are many different challenges you can At the close he made an appeal for ingChurch naturally, and they Lords.

Pegg’s character) is saying; this really 10 some practical examinations of the ist every termRob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway and natural world. Supporting children Drive’ on 12 November, 7pm (venue sessions at Winkleigh Parkham.

Torrington Bluecoat C of E and Primary School 11am Karen 01805 622866 Bluecoat Children’s Centre seehearnd@livingoptions.org people to come to thegenerously front if they giving wish up their time to long period from late

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Also Home V Visits isits throughout "No job too big or too small" North Devon T Tel: el: 01237-474244 for property 'TLC' phone TPS

RON SUSSEXTHURSDAY AND SONS LTD Slimming World PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS (Est 40+ yrs) Torrington Oil, LPG and Natural Gas Heating, Domestic dwellings & caravans Torridge Vale Social Club Landlords, Servicing & Commissioning 5.30pm & 7.30pm All Plumbing work—Calor Gas Bev Stockists (delivery624955 available) Tel: 01805 Fax 01805 623293 clubewaithrttheTel &0844 897 8000 ib g h FREE ESTIMATES

th e Oftec Reg.

116 New Street (via Stoneman’s Lane), Torrington www.slimmingworld.com

Gas Safe No. 21765

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Beavers, Cubs & Scouts Out & About

S

ummer is here, which means that we are able to get outside; we love the outdoors and fill our meeting times with lots of activities and opportunities to be outside, come rain or shine.

Bear Grylls, who is currently the Chief Scout of The Scout Association, is a well-known advocate of the outdoors and has said “The scouting movement is a massive force for good, touching many, many young lives. Above all, it gives millions of kids the chance to live and learn about the wild and to experience real adventure. Nature and the outdoors are languages that can be learned. Once you identify a beech tree, tie a clove hitch or cook a simple meal over a fire that you’ve built yourself, you’ll never forget it”.

During the last few weeks the Beavers and Cubs have been gaining certain badges outdoors by completing a Monopoly street trail, finding all the local street names, an historic trail of Torrington, a treasure hunt and rounders, as well as compass work towards their navigation badge. The Scouts have been busy making rockets, which they launched at a local farm and which was very exciting, this counts towards their astronautics badge. They also met up with 2nd Bideford Scouts and enjoyed a track and trail making activity for groups to follow. We have plenty of other outdoor activities to come, such as crabbing, visiting the fire station, games on the Burrows, cycling, bridge building and more!

As a group we all enjoyed being outdoors at the Carnival at the end of the May Day festivities. Our theme was ‘The Farm’ and we had all sorts of lovely costumes; farmers, a chick, a scarecrow, a tractor, shepherds – they all looked amazing. We enjoyed the wonderful weather, along with the crowds who came out to watch the parade.

We shall be out and about again in June. We are holding a Coffee Morning on Saturday 9th June at the Torridge Vale Social Club, in Torrington, from 10am-12pm.

We are raising funds to help maintain our hall and there will be tea/coffee, cakes, raffle, tombola etc. Please come along and support us and meet our Scout Group members.

If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Beavers (age 6-8), Cubs (age 8-10) or Scouts (age 10 -14) please contact Kirsty Pells on 07887 557 574 or email kirsty.pells@btinternet.com.

Need a plumber? Or a builder?

Someone to walk your dog?

Help around the home?

New windows?

Somewhere for a day out?

Find this and more in our online business directory & local information page.

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Visit our website at: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk

Torrington in Bloom

T

orrington in Bloom has been placed in a different category for the South West in Bloom competition, the Ayre Cup which means we shall have two completely new judges We shall be working hard to continue our run of Silver-Gilt awards and hopefully, these two new judges will award us a Gold!

The South West in Bloom judging date is the 12th July, from 10am, and there is a lot to do in the meantime.

We have already re-planted the little corner flowerbed by the swimming pool and this should be colourful all summer.

We have also completed building and planting the new Dartington Crystal planter, opposite the visitor car park.

We have completely renovated the old trug in the churchyard; this now just needs a coat of preservative and planting. Watch this space!

Both these new planters have been built by the Men’s Shed and we would like to thank them very much, particularly as they were able to do the trug in time for May Fair Day. Just before May Day, there were a lot of people hard at work sweeping, weeding and litter picking all around the town; the result of an appeal by Keeley Allin, and others, to help tidy up Torrington. A grand job was done by everyone and let’s hope we can have another ‘blitz’ before the 12th July.

Thank you everyone for helping out on the day, and to Jenny and Colin of Brown’s Delicatessen for baking lovely cheese scones for the ‘workers’ to enjoy!

Cherry Hammon, Chair Torrington in Bloom, 01805 625788

B n i l o n o o m t g 2 n i 0 r 1 r o 8 T

BEST GARDEN COMPETITION 2018 ENTRY FORM

CATEGORY 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Best display by a shop, retail or otherwise.

Best display by public house, private club or B&B residence.

Best individual display with no front garden, ie, baskets, window boxes, etc.

Best community group display, eg: schools/cadets/brownies or gardening/allotment groups, row of house fronts, public or private areas.

Best large garden over 9.50sq metres (approx) (100sq ft approx).

Best small garden, courtyard or balcony (less than 9.50sq m/100sq ft approx).

Young Gardener of the Year, up to age 18 (nominations accepted from adults).

(Can include container/hanging basket/own vegetable patch/flowerbed or helped an adult in a garden, or an individual in a group effort)

The winner from each category will be put forward for the best overall display chosen by the judge from all the categories, ie, the best of the best.

The closing date for entries is 30 JUNE 2018. Judging will take place on 24 July 2018

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ENTRY FORM

Name: .............................................................................................................. Tel. No: …………………….......................…

Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………............................................ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..............................................

Category entered (may be more than one): ……………………………………………………..…............................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................

Completed entry forms may be left at Duffy’s Home Hardware or Whiskers Pet Centre NB: winners’ gardens may be placed on-line or Facebook (addresses would not be included)

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General Building • Plastering • Renovations Woodburner Installations • Open Fires • Servicing & Repairs RESTORATION: Non Standard fire places are a speciality. Gerald Norris is an approved National Trust contractor BRICKWORK: From restoration to a complete rebuild we have the necessary skills 07818 084 633 • 01805 625333 gebsfires@gmail.com www.geraldnorris.co.uk

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FIREPLACES: A wealth of knowledge and experience mean we can design and build the the fire place you desire WOODBURNERS: We have a close working relationship with Rangemoors in Winkleigh. We can source any make of woodburner to suit your needs