Torrington Crier June 2023

FREE

June 2023 The Crier is produced 10 times a year on behalf of the community, by The Crier Community Interest Company.

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

Supported by

rhs.org.uk/rosemoor

Festival of Roses E RHS T

O

I

Y

JO

RHS X Members X go free TH

D

I

N

AY

JO

Your visit supports our work as a charity.

TH

DA

Sat 17 Jun – Sun 16 Jul

N

E RHS T

O

1

Read The Crier Online

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

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

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 07443 491 972 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon.

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

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 (please note that this is a home number not an office) E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £26 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £51 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

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

Telephone for a free quote: Office: 01237 473197 Mobile 07971 173170 enquiries@atawindows.co.uk

2

Windows • Doors • Cladding • Conservatories Porches • Patios • Guttering

Disclaimer:

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

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

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

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

Monday-Friday 9am-4pm Saturday 9am-12pm Phone: 01237 459193 Mobile: 07494 313242 www.sheds4you.co.uk Email: office@sheds4you.co.uk

Unit 8, Caddsdown Industrial Park, Bideford, Devon, EX39 3DX

Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee

May the fourth be with you… long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, was a town called Torrington and on the 4th of May the whole community came together to enjoy the traditional May Fair events, and the weather in this galaxy was kind to them all as well.

On behalf of the Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who played a part in all aspects of May Fair Day, whether that was before, during or after the event. As without the community and our volunteers, we simply would not be able to put on a May Fair for everyone to enjoy.

It might not have been the warmest or sunshine-filled May Fair, but the atmosphere and cheers from the crowds soon made up for that: when the entertainers performed, the May Queen was crowned, and we were all able to see the eagerly anticipated theme for this year’s entourage.

Congratulations to our fancy dress competition winners (Boba Fett, The Mandalorian & Chewbacca). The last time this competition ran was in 2006, so we were happy to bring it back to the May Fair schedule, and it is something we hope to continue with in the future. As The Mandalorian would say, ‘this is the way’.

You might have noticed our volunteers out in force with collection tins, and we are pleased to confirm that we collected an amazing £600.63, with money still coming in from the draw, local businesses and supporters, which will all go towards the cost of the events for 2024.

As you all know we took the decision not to organise a carnival this year, but well done to Darren Nudds and Chris Tattersall on the organisation of their alternative ‘walking carnival’.

Once again, thank you to everyone for their help and involvement with May Fair 2023. We hope you enjoyed all of it and had a great time with your family and friends. If you would like to get involved with the committee and help keep the tradition alive, please do get in contact with me.

Until next time, ‘may the force be with you’.

Natasha Batty - Secretary tash.batty@gmail.com

A

Mill Street Party!

O

n Sunday 7th May at midday Karl Ayres (Torridge Inn) and Joanne Johns (neighbour on Mill Street) decided between them to put out a couple of tables on Mill Street, with some sandwiches and cake to celebrate the Coronation of the King.

Word got around and within minutes it started to become busy. Jo quickly rallied the kids - Allannah, Fred, Harry and Isaac, to organise and set up tables and chairs, flags and bunting, and within minutes we had a full on street party.

We were overwhelmed by how many neighbours of Mill Street turned up with a vast array of delicious sweet and savoury dishes, cakes, and a great selection of drinks, including Allannah’s refreshing homemade lemonade.

Great Torrington’s Mayor Doug Smith was passing by and couldn’t resist stopping off for a sausage roll or two, even the sun came out to join us!

Thanks to the lovely people of Mill Street that made it a real sense of community spirit.

A wonderful day had by all!

Long live the King!

Karl Ayres

3

Fancy Dress Walking Carnival

A

huge thank you to all of the people of Great Torrington, for turning up in true Torrie style and making a great day on the 6th May. People took a lot of time and effort with their fancy dress and they looked fantastic.

Over 300 people of all ages took part, and many more came out to support the event, culminating with a packed square, with an amazing atmosphere.

The event raised over £700 for the May Fair and Carnival Committee, so well done to Torrington.

A huge thank you to Jane Wafforn of Whiskers and Declan Tattersall of Honey Wood Distillery for sponsoring the cups; to the Torrington Cavaliers for sponsoring the children’s sweets and badges, and helping out with the marshalling and Andrew and Janet Gist for the Last Appeal. Also, thanks to all of the pubs and clubs for stamping the cards and handing out the sweets.

Well done Torrington.

Daren Nudds & Chris Tattersall

BESPOKE PICTURE FRAMERS BLENDING CONTEMPORARY STYLES WITH TRADITIONAL FRAMING METHODS CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE OR VISIT US AT OUR WORKSHOP STIBB HOLLOW FARM, LANGTREE, TORRINGTON, EX38 8LP TEL: 01805 601777

4

Visit: www.blackdogframing.co.uk

Diary Dates...

17-18th June Beaford Open Gardens, and Flower Festival at Beaford Church, combined ticket £5 from the Church.

Teas, plants, books for sale. For more information contact Diana 01805 603937 (evenings).

24th June, 2-6pm Midsummer fun in Devon Wildlife Trust’s Halsdon Nature Reserve (grid ref SS557132) . Walks, pond-dipping, moth id, displays. Contact Diana 01805 603937 (evenings).

What's on at Torri Youth

For young people aged 10-17 * Photography project * Torrington in Bloom - Bee Friendly * Detached Park Games * Skern Lodge - 3rd June (full) * Graffiti workshop Friday 16th June limited spaces available * Dig the Castle Talk and Tour - 7th July, book your space to be part of the team for the excavation! * Laser tag trip - 14th July - limited spaces available * Saturday 22nd July Picnic in the Park, 2-4pm. Family fun session in Calf Street Park, to help raise funds for the community shelter project. Bring a blanket and have a picnic in your park.

Youth workers and young people will be organising games, activities and face painting, pop along and see us.

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

MERTON GARAGE MOT TESTING SERVICING DIAGNOSTICS REPAIRS TYRES SALES

We offer free vehicle collection from Torrington 01805 603081

Great Torrington Commons Conservators

P

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

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

You can buy a copy of the Tree Trail map for £1 from the Post Office in the Tourist Information Centre, Collectability, Whiskers Pet shop, Greedy’s Burger van or the Puffing Billy. The trail starts and finishes at the Old Bowling Green. It is a great walk and very educational.

We have recently introduced some new collection boxes in the town shops.

This is where you can donate coins or even notes to help us. It doesn’t matter if they are foreign coins either. Our car boot sales have also started, and we have a stall on the Old Bowling Green each Sunday morning. We are still collecting books, CDs and DVDs to sell there we are also collecting old stamps, foreign coins and now Lego. If you have any of these items, please bring them along on a Sunday morning or call me, on 07956 366 390 and I can collect.

The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per month or a £24 annual donation, which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer.

Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple: Option 1: Visit the website www.

• Full detailed wash at your home • Upholstery & leather treatment • Plastic & trim restore • Ceramic coatings Paint correction • & more…

Torrington Commons

A local treasure reat Torrington Commons is a natural local treasure. Falling within the UNESCO North Devon Biosphere, it covers a significant area of land totalling 131ha, in the lower catchment of the River Torridge. The land comprises a diverse mix of habitats including unimproved species rich grassland, semi-improved herb-rich grassland, acid grassland, ponds, hedgerows, orchard, young wood pasture, mature and veteran trees, scrub and a significant area of woodland (71ha). This all contributes to a fantastic array of wildlife, of which much is rare or protected.

Extensive surveys have shown the Torrington Commons hosts an abundance of species. Supported by the Devon Wildlife Trust, a bioblitz conducted in 2022 recorded an impressive 576 species, across 27 taxon groups. Further to this, a single moth survey in 2018 found 121 species. Some of the species identified during the 2022 bioblitz are protected species, priority species or nationally scarce.

Torrington Commons is a great asset for the local community. Unlike most other common land, Torrington Commons are not owned by the local authority. For this reason, although classed as a ‘Devon Wildlife Site’, it would be difficult to give it legal protection as a ‘Local Nature Reserve’.

The land was transferred by an Act of Parliament in 1889, to an elected Committee of Conservators, who hold the Commons in Trust and administer the land on behalf of the residents of Great Torrington. However, unlike Wimbledon Commons - which is similarly subject to an Act of Parliament - the Trust receives little public money for its upkeep of the Commons. Relying on charitable donations, its small budget limits what the Conservators can accomplish.

The Conservators are drawing up plans to strike a balance between preserving public access and the rights to Torrington Commons by Torrington residents, with the management of the existing woodlands and species rich grassland, encouraging wildlife and wildflowers. It is hoped the Trust will secure funding to do this, from the Government’s new Countryside Stewardship scheme.

David Nudd, Commons Conservator

G

torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you can apply online. Here you have the option of paying by PayPal or standing order annually or monthly. You can also print an application form to post in with a cheque.

Option 2: You can email vicechair@

torringtoncommons.org or phone or text 07956 366 390 and I will get an application form to you.

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

Andrew Giles, Vice Chair Great Torrington Commons Conservators

Professional Mobile Car Detailing service 07476 859 398 CHautodetailing.co.uk CHautodetaling@outlook.com

5

Looking for help & support at home?

The Helping Hand is based in Torrington & provides friendly caring support in your own home Help in the kitchen •Help around the house •Meal preparation •Medication prompts •Light housework •Trips to town •Walks in the local area •Companionship

Fully insured & valid DBS check Call Tracey 07403 439039 or email pinkdevonlady@icloud.com

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

Dry Seasoned, Ready-to-Burn logs Now available!

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

Great Torrington Town & Community Hall May Fair Round-Up hat a week it was for us at the Town Hall, as we played our part with all the various events taking place throughout the week!

We kicked off with our ‘Mix and Mingle’ party-which rocked! We had the Kazoo Band headlined by Richard, one of our lovely members who was a natural on the mic, singing some great tunes. Tom raised nearly £50 for the Salvation Army selling off his beautiful colouring in.

Mix and Mingle is a club for people who have support needs and their support workers. It’s on every Monday for arts, crafts, music, tea, cake, and conversation. If you would like more information, call 07793 241 555.

Starting on rehearsal night, we opened our ‘Town Hall Tavern’ and throughout May Fair offered a great range of local cask ales, draught lager and cider which, of course, included Chris Tat’s delicious Honeywood Cider.

All this under the watchful eye of Jim Thomas, renowned CAMRA winner from the Globe in Beaford. We were also delighted to host Torrington’s own Boom Tingz, who cooked up their fantastic gourmet burgers, shakes and waffles.

It was so much fun to put some tables out, play a little music and join in the fantastic May Fair celebrations. So many people have worked tremendously hard over many months to make May Fair such an amazing spectacle, and even a little rain couldn’t dampen spirits!

The collaboration with Boom Tingz and our local brewers was great and much

W

appreciated by all the lovely people who came to enjoy what we had to offer.

We look forward to doing more collaboration with our fabulous local suppliers.

Our Great Hall was all set up ready on May Fair morning for the official part of the May Fair proceedings, and we were privileged to welcome the Town Council, visiting Mayors, and invited guests from all over Devon.

Trustees wish to acknowledge all the hard work Nicky did to set everything up prior to the big day.

What a marvellous atmosphere in the Square for ‘The Walking Carnival’ and we would like to say a big thank you to Daren, Gina, and Chris for organising this event and keeping the tradition of the carnival in Great Torrington alive.

Our week was brought to a close with the Coronation tea party organised by Charlotte and Jennie from the Town Council. Proceedings commenced with the Silver Band playing some lively music in the sunshine, followed by a cream tea, our own trustees and volunteers lending a helping hand and more great music.

What a fun way to conclude a fantastic week. Well done, Torrington!

Other News…

Lunch Club is up and running every other Thursday from 11th May. Enjoy reasonably-priced, delicious homecooked food. When the sun is shining,

TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION

6

Groundworks & Concrete works Patios & Fencing Drainage Digger Hire CSCS Competent Operator HS & E Tested Call Jason t: 07968 825 811 Great Torrington, North Devon

we’ll have seating outside for you to watch the world go by. Our bar is open to diners.

Welcome to Rhi, Tom and the Torringtones who are now busy practicing every Wednesday evening in the Great Hall. The acoustics are superb and ideal for their needs. From 7-8.15pm. All welcome.

Don’t forget we have several rooms of different sizes which are available for hire.

If you are planning a wedding or reception, party, wake, charity or community event, pop-up or food event, just tell us what you have in mind! Don’t forget our full catering kitchen to suit all needs and the licenced bar.

For further information please contact us: admin@greattorrington-townhall.org or ring us 07546 695 938.

THE TRUST USES ALL PROCEEDS RAISED FOR THE UPKEEP OF THE TOWN HALL

TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior Contact Jason or Tony t: 07968 825 811 t: 07790 645 063

Library News

Let’s paint together A great opportunity to learn new skills 3 week course.

Torrington Library has invited local art tutor Bill Bromfield to take you through tips and tricks to paint in watercolour with confidence.

For the first time we have arranged a course of three workshops to run for consecutive weeks in June, each session covering various aspects of this exciting medium. The course will have use of the library, adjoining gardens and countryside. Bill will do demonstrations, providing advice and guidance throughout.

Our first workshop will include painting a vibrant sunset. Please bring your watercolour paints and brushes.

Watercolour paper will be provided. To avoid disappointment, book today for all of the sessions in June.

Course dates: 5th, 12th & 19th June.

Workshop time 10am-1pm. Skill level: beginners, improvers, all abilities welcome. Numbers are limited so booking is advised.

This subsidised course costs £30. A deposit of £10 can be paid at time of booking to secure your place.

For more information contact Kate Cooper or email Torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk, quoting ‘Let’s paint together’.

Walk & Talk - Thursdays 10.30am Join our regular Walk & Talk every Thursday for a gentle walk followed by a cuppa. New members are most welcome, to join the group please arrive

a bit earlier to register in advance of your first walk.

We look forward to seeing you!

Bounce & Rhyme Storytime Stay & Chat Tuesdays (term-time only) 10.30-11am.

These are happy, lively events. After the singing the toys are out for babies and toddlers to play. If you ever thought libraries are quiet places, think again!

Followed by Baby Self Weigh Tuesdays 11.30-4pm.

Half-term event Children’s crafting with Chris Pop in for this drop-in session between 10.30am-12pm and get crafting. Chris always has something marvellous to make.

One 2 One IT Support Tablet, laptop or smartphone problems to solve? Our volunteer Perry is here to offer 1-2-1 support every other Thursday morning (by appointment only). Please call: 01805 622107 to book.

For up-to-date information on events listing please check us out on Facebook @TorringtonLibraryDevon We post on our page regularly, so it is a good place to find out what’s going on at your local library.

Play our Lottery!

Playing the weekly lottery will give you the chance to support your libraries to stay open and help support everyone, particularly through the cost-of-living

crisis. Tickets for the lottery cost just £1 per week, with a top prize of £25,000 each week. There will also be regular additional lotteries such as shopping vouchers, food subscriptions.

We will receive 50% of every ticket bought, with all proceeds going back into providing and expanding these critical services.

To sign up, visit www.librariesunlimited. org.uk/support-us. Supporters must be aged 16 or over. Please play responsibly, and good luck!

Please refer to our website: www. librariesunlimited.org.uk for up-to-date information on all our services.

For assistance with any queries please contact us by emailing torrington. library@librariesunlimited.org.uk or via our general telephone enquiries line is 0345 155001.

Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092.

Torrington Book Fair

Sunday 4th June, Castle Community Centre 10am-3pm. Wonderful opportunity to meet the authors, talk books, drink tea and eat cake.

Featuring Hazel Prior ‘Away with the Penguins’ and Helen Garlick ‘No Place to Lie’, who will give talks and many other great authors.

FREE entry.

Ladies! Girls! Great Torrington Golf Club is holding a special afternoon just for YOU! Sunday 25th June 3-4.30 pm

Want to try a new sport?

Have fun, meet new people & get some exercise!

Why not have a go at golf?

A free fun afternoon in a beautiful location with friendly people.

All equipment provided & information about playing more regularly Give us a call or email, leave your name and number to book a place

t:01805 622229 e:info@torringtongolfclub.co.uk See you there

7

Phoenix Creative Devon

Creative Building Services & Property Development with a difference!

P

hoenix Creative Devon is a family run business based near Winkleigh, providing a wide range of creative and skilled services.

We are very experienced in plastering and construction direct to domestic customers and businesses. We have over 30 years’ experience running reputable construction, interior design and plastering businesses.

We undertake all aspects of plastering and building work and offer some unique services. These include vertical wall stamping of wet plaster and renders, where we can create realistic wood and stone effects and various textures and designs. Also Venetian plastering, both polished and textured, in a wide range of designs and colours. We have excellent attention to detail, combined with a courteous and very reliable service.

We are experienced property developers, and we can offer interior

8

TV’s Charles Hanson set for Antiques Treasure Hunt in Torrington!

P

opular TV personality Charles Hanson is coming to Devon in a bid to uncover antique treasures.

Charles, a familiar face on TV’s Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, owns Hansons Auctioneers, a firm renowned for uncovering unusual and valuable finds.

If you’ve always wondered what that antique, quirky collectable or piece of jewellery might be worth, you can find out for free and consign it into auction.

Charles will host a valuation and consignment event at The Plough Arts Centre, 9-11 Fore St, Great Torrington, Devon, EX38 8HQ 21, on June 21st, 11am1pm.

He said: “I can’t wait to see what the people of Devon have tucked away at home. Delve into the attic and under the bed, search out those treasures and find out if you’re sitting on an auction windfall.

“Sales are booming right now. Bidders all over the world are keen to buy all manner of items from gold and silver to rare books and militaria. If you have something at home you no longer need I would love to see it. I just might deliver a wonderful surprise.”

Hansons assesses all types of antiques and collectables including ceramics, coins and banknotes, books, toys, railwayana, jewellery, watches, silver, gold and memorabilia relating to sport, music and films. Items can be entered into a wide range of general and specialist sales.

To learn more email service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk, call 01283 733988 or visit www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk.

Pictured: Charles Hanson with Queen Victoria's table letter box, sold for £14,500 - credit Hansons design and property development advice for people looking to buy or sell properties - whether it is your own home or an investment. Our advice and input can make a difference when trying to buy or sell, advising on the best options to realise the full potential with realistic budgets. For businesses we can work with you to design and create your space, whether it’s an office, a shop, or

just a revamp or maintenance.

We also create a very wide range of original handmade 3D wall art and wooden carvings to enhance your home or business. Please visit our website for full details of our services, or to purchase some of our artwork, see our advert on this page for details.

£5 Fridays 1.30-3pm Email to book your space hello@wellbeingmethods.co.uk Come join our very gentle class & stay for tea!

For limited mobility, injury recovery, disability & seniors

Bookscribe

A

re you looking for a visually stunning logo or an engaging brochure to promote your products and services? I can create it for you. I will work closely with you to understand your brand and create a specific design to reflect your unique identity. A polished and professional service honed from my years of working in publishing.

As a writer I am skilled at crafting compelling content for a wide range of industries and audiences. Whether it is blog posts, web copy, marketing materials or magazine content, I can help to captivate your readers and drive engagement. In addition I can offer you professional editing and proofreading services, ensuring your documents are error-free, grammatically correct and well-structured. Let me refine your message and improve the quality of your communication.

Whether you're a business owner or an individual, my services are designed to help you succeed. I offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, so you can get the help you need when you need it. Contact me today to learn more about how I can help you improve your communication, achieve your goals or perhaps finish that book that is waiting to be published.

Email: vivianhead@gmail.com, tel: 07974 123 001.

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

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

Chair-based Exercise Class

W

hen you think of exercise, what comes to mind? We may often think of exercising as heavy weight-lifting in a gym or going for a run, but vigorous physical activity isn’t suitable for all or the only way to reap the benefits of exercise.

If injury, disability, illness, or weight problems have limited your mobility, seated exercise may help to boost your mood, ease depression, relieve stress and anxiety, enhance your self-esteem, and improve your whole outlook on life. As there is a social element to this class, then you have 45 minutes at the end to share cups of tea and stories with new friends.

Seated exercise is an effective way to help you stay physically active, and all you need is a chair! Low-impact chair exercises help increase movement throughout the day while keeping pressure off of your joints. Like other forms of physical activity, seated exercise offers similar benefits while reducing the risk of injury or discomfort. * Chair based exercises benefits: * Increased flexibility and strength * Increased coordination * Increased circulation * Reduced risk of falls because chair-based exercises improve posture and balance * Increased confidence and self-esteem “I am 73 years old and suffering quite a lot of back and muscle pain at the moment. I asked Zita to help me through chair exercises. She has a very calming style and speaks with politeness and care. She first of all encouraged me to respect and love my body and not let my thoughts be dominated by any frustrations or discomfort. The exercises are gentle with plenty of rest times. Zita makes sure that we do not continue with an exercise if it is causing pain. I am encouraged by the progress I am making and I am very grateful to Zita.” Kevin April 2023 Introductory price £5 per class. Email hello@wellbeingmethods.co.uk or call 07950 864 611 to book your space. Torrington Centre and Community Gardens 1.30-3pm every Friday.

Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator Fully qualified tradesman

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

T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

9

All Shines Window & Exterior Cleaning Windows • Guttters • Soffits Gutter Clearance • Roof de-moss Render & K Rend Soft Wash Conservatories • Patios • Block Paving Driveways 01805 938502 07711 079 577

Local Baby & Toddler Groups

Buckland Brewer 'Time Together' Toddler and Baby Group Mondays during term time at Buckland Brewer Methodist Church from 9.30am to 12noon. £1.50 per family. Dave Watson 07484 223 515 Coldridge Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am every Friday (except 1st Friday of the month) £2 per family.

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

Petrockstowe Community Church Tea and Tots coffee morning, for mums, dads, grandparents, carers, babies and toddlers together for a drink and a chat. Every Monday 9.15-11am in the school room of the Chapel. Kate Cutter entertains with songs and stories.

St Giles in the Wood ‘Cubs in the Wood’ playgroup for 0-4 year olds on Thursdays 9.30-11am at the Parish Hall £2.50.

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

Castle Community Centre Tuesdays Busy Bees – 9.30-10.15am (babies 6mths-15mths) Caterpillar Club 10.4511.30am (babies 6wks-6mths) Torrington Children’s Centre, ‘Noah’s Ark’ Fridays 9.15-10.45am, run by Grosvenor Church Tim Gilbert 07798 670 754.

Local Professional Qualified Counsellor Face-to-face or online sessions available Contact for more information 07467 702 605

10

www.birds-willowcounselling.com

From Your District Councillors…

F

ollowing the local elections on May 4th, Great Torrington has a new team of District Councillors: Chris Bright will continue to represent the town, alongside his wife, Lauren Bright, and Doug Smith. The team are very much looking forward to getting started and will continue to keep residents informed of their work in The Crier.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin is now a member for Shebbear and Langtree, alongside Chris Wheatley, and so the wider Torrington area will continue to benefit from her passion and expertise. The new team wish to thank Margaret Brown for the work she has done for the town as a District Councillor, and in particular her contribution to the planning committee.

Councillor Chris Bright was delighted to participate in this year's May Fair celebrations and thanks the Great Torrington May Fair and Carnival Committee for their year-round work.

Cllr Bright is also pleased to share that £195,000 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund is to be spent on the restoration of Market House in the centre of town. He has been pressing Torridge for action on this since October 2020, and is hugely grateful to business owners and Torrington Museum, whose impassioned speeches and letters made officers and councillors take notice.

If there is anything the District Councillor team can help you with, please get in touch with us. Chris Bright, councillor.bright@torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909; Lauren Bright, cllr.laurenbright@torridge.gov.uk, 07595 659 310; Doug Smith, councillor.smith@torridge.gov.uk, 07970 636 199.

Torrington Memory Cafe

T

he staff and members of Torrington Memory Cafe wish to thank Gwen Jones and Sue Turner for their terrific and significant support.

Gwen and Sue have written and sold a lovely collection of poems and donated £800 to us from the proceeds. Other local charities have also benefitted from their work and generosity. Their support has allowed us to prosper, purchase a karaoke machine and plan future events. We are so very grateful.

Sue and Gwen live in Dolton and know full well the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease on family and carers. We are blessed by their support and friendship. Their books are still available and on sale in the town.

The Memory Cafe is open every second Thursday in the month throughout the year. It runs from 10.30am until noon in the Methodist Church. It is free of charge and attempts to help both members and carers. All are welcome to share refreshments and entertainment. Helpers or volunteers would be particularly welcomed. Please come and join us. For further information contact leader Lorraine 07377 363 477 or secretary John 07986 586 799.

From Your County Councillor…

I

hope all readers of the Crier had a great May Fair, walking Carnival and Coronation weekend! I’d like to start by thanking everyone involved with the organisation and running of the May Fair events, it was another fantastic May Fair and it is a privilege for me, as your County Councillor, to be able to take part in the historic traditions that underpin the celebrations.

Writing this article immediately after the Coronation of King Charles III, I would also like to thank everyone who helped out with the numerous events and celebrations that took place throughout the communities and Parishes of Torrington Rural. It was great to see so many people coming together to celebrate and it was also lovely to see so much of the town, and our villages, decked out with bunting and Union Flags.

As this is my first article since the Torridge District Council elections, I would also like to congratulate all those newly elected and re-elected District, Town and Parish Councillors.

I look forward to working with you all.

I would, though, like to pay tribute and thank Margaret Brown, David Hurley and Rachel Clarke for their many years of service, and wish them well for the future.

As ever, potholes and the condition of the Highway network remains a key priority for many of my residents. I can report that since January 1st to the end of April, a total of 21,199 safety defects have been repaired across the whole of Devon, nearly 7,000 more than the same period last year.

One of the biggest factors behind this has been the weather, with prolonged cold weather spells of freezing weather followed by heavy rain. Approximately 11,500 tonnes of salt was used in Devon this winter for gritting, compared with just 6,000 last year.

Why does the weather have such an impact? Certainly, pressure on the drainage and general maintenance budgets has been immense in the last few years, if not decades, though compared with when I was first elected in 2017, we have seen successive increases in the drainage maintenance budgets (including a further £2 million this year). Though, as ever, I would still like to see more put into drainage budgets, as and when funding allows.

But the fundamental factor is that Devon has over 8,000 miles of road network, (the largest of any English local authority), and the overwhelming majority of which are unclassified roads built on foundations of no more than stone tracks, designed for the horse and cart. To compound this, a clay belt runs through Devon and it just so happens that Torrington Rural is sat inside it! We can see from the number of pothole reports and repairs that in the extreme north and south of the County, where the geology is different, there are far less potholes than in the areas covered by the clay belt.

There are also more vehicles on the roads than ever, and the heavy goods vehicles that now traverse our roads are a lot larger and substantially heavier than the HGVs of 20-30 years ago. To reconstruct all 8,000 miles of highway network – while it would solve the pothole problem – would nonetheless run into the hundreds of millions of pounds, and we have to be realistic that that sort of funding is not going to become available anytime soon.

On top of this, as I’ve written before, the largest proportion of DCC’s expenditure goes on social services – whether it is Adult Social Care or protecting vulnerable children from harm.

Adult’s and Children’s Services alone account for more than three quarters of the overall DCC budget. While I know it is frustrating to see the pothole in the road, I also have a duty as a County Councillor to make sure those in need are supported. While we can see a pothole, we may not necessarily see that

vulnerable child or adult who is in need of help.

However, working with our new Chief Executive, Donna Manson, we are looking at different ways of working in the council and modernising the various services, both to improve the quality of the service but also, if possible, to see if we can free up any extra funding for Highways.

What funding is available for roads, I continue to fight very hard for. DCC was awarded an extra £9.4 million of capital funding by the Government in the recent Budget Statement, the largest amount of any Highway Authority in the UK. Shortly afterwards I met with my local Highways Officer to put forward funding bids for improvement schemes using this extra money, and I can assure readers that several schemes in Torrington Rural have been put forward.

We are also planning on utilising the ‘Dragon Patcher’ to help with the repair of our more rural roads too – several sites have already been approved and signed off in Buckland Filleigh, St Giles in the Wood, Roborough, Dolton, Ashriegney and Winkleigh, with more I hope still to come.

Ending though on a different note, readers of the Crier will have known from my previous articles the immense pressures put on DCC’s Budget for 2022-23. In the summer of last year we were facing a projected overspend of up to £40 million. While at the time of writing in May, the figures are still being finalised, I am very pleased to report that the County Council is on course to break even. We should know the full details for next month but this is still a tremendous achievement, given the huge challenges that the Authority and local councils up and down the country have had to grapple with over the past year.

So, ending on a positive note, if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise with me you can contact me on Facebook facebook.com/cllrsaywell, call 07886 446 560 or email andrew. saywell@devon.gov.uk.

11

The History of Weare Giffard

F

or such a small population, our parish of Weare Giffard has a remarkable history: of Mesolithic man/women knapping their flints; to Iron Age; through to Romano-British and on down through the Saxons and Normans to the post medieval, and us today.

How well do you know Weare Giffard?

Where is ‘Stoney Bridge?

Where did ‘Poor Amy’ live?

Where did Neolithic Weare Giffard man/woman knap their flints?

When was our present Corn Mill built, and what was there before?

Which house was one of the first in North Devon to have electric lights?

Where is our Romano-British crop mark, or do we have two?

When was Half Penny Bridge built?

Where is our Tucking Mill, how was it powered, and what was it used for?

Two History ‘Walk & Talks’ for 2023 Saturday 17th June 2.30-4pm This walk will start at 2.30pm at the Parish Church, parking limited. The Church will be open from 2pm. We will walk and talk our way south, following the river, and finish at the Old Corn Mill.

Saturday 22nd July 2.30-4pm The July walk will be from the Corn Mill south to Chopes Bridge, taking in the lower end of Park Hill and Chopes Road. Meet outside the pub 2.30pm. Please do NOT park in pub car park.

General: all are welcome, locals and visitors, including children, and whether you live in the village or not. Each walk is approximately ½ mile in length and then same back to the cars.

There is a request for a small donation (£4) towards furthering village history research.

Whatever the weather, we walk! NB: the above two walks are repeats of last year’s.

(Also, possible finish at leader’s house with light refreshments -TBD).

Booking Essential. These walks will only run with sufficient numbers, so booking is essential please, along with £4 per person, refundable if cancelled. To reserve a place, and for further details contact myself Keith Hughes 01237 475168 or keith_willows@talktalk.net.

12

Countdown to Open Garden Day on July 2nd

I

t will not be long until Torrington Open Garden Day when, for just £5 per ticket (children 5 and under go free), you will be able to visit a variety of gardens in Torrington, including RHS Rosemoor.

Enjoy the day admiring the gardens, chatting to like-minded gardeners, perhaps buy a plant or two and have a cup of tea, all the time knowing that 100% of your £5 entrance fee will go towards Torrington’s Bickford Centre.

Towards late May tickets will be available to purchase in advance from Whiskers pet store and Duffy’s Home Hardware and, on the morning of 2nd July, at the entrance to Torrington 1646, with the Fork ‘n’ Feast Café being open for the day.

Your ticket will give you full information on each of the gardens, including a QR code to help find the location plus a postcode for sat nav owners.

We look forward to seeing you on the 2nd July.

Why Advertise in The Crier?

FREE Online business directory entry FREE clickable adverts to your website in the online Crier FREE colour cover advert with 5 large adverts booked Your special offers promoted FREE on our Facebook page Affordable rates and FREE design of your advert Call Esther on 01805 01805 601964 Email torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

F

abulous Freddie back with all the news from May. I hope everyone enjoyed all the Bank Holidays and especially the Coronation. Here at the kennels we celebrated with special doggy coronation treats made by Aunty Lynne – yum they were delicious.

It was also Aunty Lynne’s birthday, but she wouldn’t let us have any of her birthday cake, which also looked yummy. She has also asked me to thank everyone who donated to her birthday Facebook appeal, which raised £270 for us woofs – pawesome.

Every month it is the same story, with requests to the rescue to take dogs in that can no longer be cared for. It really is depressing as all rescues are full, and people who are desperate are often taking their frustration out on the rescue when told there is no space – so it’s emotionally tiring for our volunteers. I try and help them by giving them a big lick and performing my best tricks when they visit, as morale in all rescues is at an all-time low according to Aunty Lynne. She has asked me to once again appeal to anyone thinking of getting a dog, to really do your research into the breed so that you know what sort of commitment you are taking on, and for how long. One other important aspect is to understand the cost of things – food, vet bills, insurance etc. While insurance may seem to be expensive each month, so are vet bills, which brings me onto my news.

Sadly, many of you will know that I have quite frequently been lame and so, as a precaution, I was taken to the vet – not a trip I like! I don’t remember

much about it as I was sedated, but was told that I had been x-rayed six times to check out my legs, (yes I know I only have four legs but the other two were to check out a couple of lumps which, thankfully, were only fatty lumps). Initially I could see they were worried as there was talk of something really nasty, however the good news is that it appears that I just have some odd shaped front legs which have a hollow bit in them.

This is the reason I go lame if I have lots of exercise. The vet bill was over £1000, but Aunty Lynne says I am worth it as she thinks I am quite loveable, but I think it is because a few people sponsor me, which all goes to help all the other woofs less fortunate than myself! I also now have to have monthly pain killing injections, which are going to be quite expensive as well, and so being insured would have been ideal but sadly, as a K9focus dog I cannot get insurance.

Sadly, during May many of our volunteers and their dogs attended the funeral of one our great supporters, Martin Essex who, with his wife Annette, ran Top & Tails Pet Shop in Braunton. It was quite emotional seeing all the people and dogs paying tribute to him, but it was the least we could do for someone who gave so much to all rescues.

Indeed, following his death, our team of volunteers helped to sort out some of the stock in the shop, which has been donated to the new local pet food bank, and will hopefully help some people who are struggling to buy good food for their pets. Thank you Martin and Annette.

On to better news. We are all geared up and ready for our first fun dog show

on Torrington Commons, on 22 July starting at 12pm, and our thanks go to Whiskers Pet Shop who are our main sponsor. However we are still looking for craft stalls, face painters etc. to join us on the day, together with sponsors for each of the rounds, so if you are interested please email lynne@k9focus. co.uk and Aunty Lynne will send you out all the details.

Some other good news is that in May both Aero and Benji went off to their new homes and are doing well and, guess what, I went on my holidays again. You can see my adventures on my very own Facebook Page - www.facebook.com/ groups/freddiesfrolicks. Although my exercise was restricted, swimming in the sea was fabulous and the vet said it was ok to go a bit mad as the sand is soft!

That’s about all from me – see you on 22 July. nd

nd

Woofs & licks, Freddie PS if you would like to sponsor me just drop an email to lynne@k9focus.co.uk

13

Torrington RFC

W

riting this in the shadow of our King’s Coronation celebrations and the great success of all the May Fair events makes me, for one, proud to be British.

Opinions may vary. I am quite prepared to accept that fact.

Moving on. Our on field season progressed beyond expectations.

Old Technicians came to Donnacroft with great hope, in the semi-final of the Devon Junior Shield competition. In a cracking game played in good weather, Torrington put paid to those expectations.

With half of the first half played after some endto-end rugby, and possession changing often, James Mill went over in the corner to open the scoring. Aidey Guppy with the extras. Old Techs replied very swiftly to level it up. Vinnie Bott crossed the whitewash within five minutes, Guppy converting again to give Torri the lead. But not for long as Old Techs replied swiftly, making it all square at half time 14-14.

Coming out of the blocks at full steam both sides went up and down the pitch until Aidey Guppy gave Torri a crucial five point lead, nail-bitingly close. A straight red card for Old Techs gave Torri the man advantage. This was to prove highly advantageous, as Old Techs threw everything at Torrington. A late penalty gave Old Techs an opportunity to close the game out. Again Torrington held firm to get the win 19-17.

We went swiftly into the clubhouse to watch the Grand National on the big screen. With not one but two sweepstakes running, the excitement continued. Thanks to Toby Lee for organising those.

Old Techs, to their credit, came up for their last game of their season with a coachload of players and supporters.

Good to their word, they stuck around for a couple of hours before wending their way home. Via several other hostelries I 14 suspect.

This great result meant that Torrington were not only in the final but hosting it too.

The opposition was going to be either Exeter Athletic or Old Plymouthians and Mannamedians (OPMs). Sadly the game couldn’t be played as Exeter were unable to field a front row. Thereby forfeiting the match.

We looked eagerly towards hosting OPMs the following week.

Game day came around with expectations high in the Torrington dressing room.

OPMs got off to a quick start with a try and conversion. However Torrington came straight back with Billy Cockwill scoring, and the ever-reliable Aidey Guppy converting. Another try to OPMs but no conversion, gave them the lead. After 23 minutes the game had to be abandoned. An OPMs sustained a serious injury which resulted in him being airlifted to Bristol with a suspected broken neck.

After a worrying 48 hours and constant contact with OPMs, we were pleased to hear he was released from hospital late on the Monday evening. We wish him full recovery.

We were now faced with a dilemma of when the final could be replayed, as the rugby season was rapidly running out.

After much to-ing and fro-ing between the teams and the organising committee, it seem that the final will have to be played as a prelude to next season. This could change again. Watch this space!

On to our end of season awards night.

This was held in the clubhouse. The theme was a black tie event and many did themselves proud by scrubbing up and donning their finest.

The awards went to:Club Person of the Year - Charlene Hoare Char has so many hats to juggle in her unstinting devotion to the club.

Fred Farmer Legend Award - Martyn Hoare

Besides being our Chairman, Martyn coaches a junior team and, with wife Charlene, promotes the club to many outside agencies.

Supporters’ Player of the Year - Tom Early Tom never fails to give 100% in all games he plays.

Most Improved Player - Will Brown This award pretty much speaks for itself.

Players’ Player - Aidey Guppy Again this speaks for itself. A prolific running player and goal kicker.

Player of the Year - Ben Sawyer A worthy winner of this award, with votes taken from everyone involved in the club.

Training award - Charles Mills A coaches’ award for dedication and effort put into all aspects of training.

And finally… Dick of the Year - Olly Vowles Olly firmly confirmed this by breaking the glass trophy!!

Well done to all of our winners, here’s to next time.

As usual the clubhouse is available to hire details: TRFC1985@outlook.com Keep your eyes peeled for some potentially interesting news for our pre-season friendlies, as well as the rearranged Devon Junior Trophy Final.

C’mon Torri!

Respect, Enjoyment, Sportsmanship, Teamwork & Discipline Mark Waterson

Torrington Baptist Church

S

ervices on Sunday mornings at 10.30am followed by refreshments.

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

Torrington – a Special Town

Part Two - The Medieval Castle he castle was on the south side of the town near the edge of the high, steep precipice overlooking the River Torridge, now called Castle Hill. Its commanding position, with strong natural defences to the south and far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside, can still be appreciated.

In the Middle Ages it was an important site, occupied for about four centuries. As the heavily fortified property of the lords of Torrington, it was the most imposing secular residence in the locality, as well as being the administrative centre of numerous rural estates.

Castle Street leads to the old castle site where there is now a bowling green, car park and the castle mound, which is all that remains of the old fortification and is sometimes referred to as the ‘tump’.

(There is a plan to excavate part of the castle mound later this year).

The original castle was built in the 12th century and the site is first mentioned in 1139, when it was attacked in the civil war waged in the reign of King Stephen (1135-54). Henry de Tracy, a supporter of King Stephen who had received Barnstaple castle and lands in North Devon, took the castle from its lord, William de Toriton, but William’s family later regained control and kept the castle until 1227. It seems that the first castle was built without royal licence, and in 1228 the Sheriff of Devon ordered it to be pulled down and the ditches around it to be filled up level with the ground. A second castle was built, with permission,

T

by Richard de Merton in 1338 on the same site.

The castle of 1139 had a tower, which was possibly situated on the earthwork to the west of the bowling green. There is later reference to a bailey, and the site may well have been of the wellknown motte (mound) and bailey (courtyard) pattern. (The name of the Barley Grove car park could be a corruption of ‘bailey’).

Despite the extensive destruction of the site in 1228, this mainly affected its defences for the chambers, hall, kitchen, grange and cowshed were mentioned in 1343 and the chapel still survived in the sixteenth century, having been used as a school house since 1485. This was eventually demolished in 1780. Another school house was built on the same site which, in later years, became the Bluecoat School, then the Eric Palmer Community Centre. This closed in 2010 and the building is now a health and fitness centre.

The east end of the castle site, said to be the location of the castle keep, is now occupied by the bowling green.

When the old pavilion was pulled down in 1987 to make way for a new clubhouse, an archaeological study was made and evidence of ancient foundations was discovered and considerable quantities

of medieval pottery were recovered. The castellated walls, together with the arrow slits, along the top of Castle Hill are not the original town walls, although parts of them may have been built with stones from the old ruined castle. They were constructed in around 1846, when the Rolle family were lords of the manor.

Moira Brewer

Torridge Walk & Talk

A

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

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

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

15

GREAT TORRINGTON T Your Council, Working for YOU

From Your Mayor…

N

ortham May Fair was held, just a few days before our own; it always seems like the start of summer, and this year was no exception.

With dinosaurs roaming the streets and a steam engine chuffing happily about, it was an interesting day. Northam Mayor kindly invited me to wave the flag for Great Torrington which I happily did.

Our Window Dressing Competition was, as ever, difficult to judge this year, there were some really inspired creations, but we ultimately decided on Collectability, as Fliss had made her tea party cakes, buns and sausage rolls out of outdated flour and ingredients, and recycled packaging materials, and has offered to donate them to the Museum afterwards for their vintage Torrington display. True recycling after my own heart!

May Fair Day itself did not deliver the weather we would have ordered, but

it did stay dry for the fabulous procession and Maypole dancing.

It is always lovely to observe the first sight of the procession with mums and dads straining to catch a glimpse of their stars. It was slightly chilly this year and the little ones were shaking with the cold; it was wonderful to see the Mayor of Ilfracombe Dan Turton and his Mayoress Kerry be the first to offer a jacket to the attendants to keep them warm, as they watched the dancing, thank you to everyone who lent a jacket to keep the entourage warm, it was lovely to see.

The amazing outfits, based on the game of chess, were very popular and received much praise, well done to Antonia Alexander on the design: it was unique.

In preparation for the King’s Coronation, I presented commemorative medals to Pupil Council representatives at Bluecoat Primary School, on the morning of Friday May 6th; medals were also presented to all Bluecoat children,

THE CLINTON HALL MERTON • Wedding Receptions • Conferences and Meetings • Parties and Celebrations • Badminton and Short Mat Bowls • 24/7 Gym • Yoga, HIIT and Flex Classes 16

01805 603300 info@clintonhallmerton.co.uk www.clintonhallmerton.co.uk

from Reception to Year 6, by their teachers later in the day. It is always such a pleasure to visit the school, and on this occasion it gave me the opportunity to say a few words about this historic royal event. I also had the opportunity to pop in to the Bluecoat Nursery to donate some Coronation themed books, for the children to enjoy sharing with their class. The Town Clerk visited Little Frogs on my behalf to donate the same books.

It has been a busy time for all, but as ever May Fair was a great success, thank you to all who contributed.

Cllr Doug Smith Mayor of Great Torrington

JAMES WASTE COLLECTION

House Clearance • Office Clearance • Garage Clearance Garden Clearance • Scrap metal clearance

Matt’s Mowing & Garden Maintenance

For any kind of clearance, please call, text or pm anytime for a no obligation quote. Thank you!

Friendly, professional lawn mowing & general gardening service

Collect from Torrington, Bideford, Barnstaple, & surrounding areas

Cutting, pruning, planting & weeding Garden waste removal included

Contact James on 07714 819 415 Licensed Waste Carrier No: CBDU269392

Call or message Matt on: 07808 056 473

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Coronation Cream Tea

O

n Sunday May 7th we were delighted to host approximately 90 invited guests at Great Torrington Town & Community Hall, for a Coronation Cream Tea. The afternoon began with musical entertainment for all in the Town Square, provided by Torrington Silver Band; the sun shone and several members of the community came along to enjoy the brilliant music. We would like to thank those members of the band who gave up their precious time to entertain us on a Bank Holiday Weekend.

The cream tea followed and guests enjoyed a scone with jam and cream (whichever went first was fine by us!) and further musical entertainment from Kathy Ellis. The hall was decorated with bunting, floral displays, paperchains, and flags all in patriotic red, white & blue. The Town Hall Titans volunteered to serve teas and coffees throughout the afternoon, and we would like to say a massive ‘thank you’ to them for their support, as the event could not have happened if they had not volunteered their time.

A big thank you goes to the Year 6 members of the May Fair Entourage and their parents, who attended the event in their amazing May Fair costumes. We know that you had a very busy weekend, and a very busy day on Sunday when Does the word ‘diet’ make you think about being controlled and restricted?

At my Torrington group, we’ve ditched the diet mentality to focus on making enjoyable, sustainable lifestyle changes that work in the real world. It’s a switch from ‘I shouldn’t’ to ‘I want to’, because Food Optimising is all about choice – and it puts you back in control.

Discover the difference at my supportive group on Wednesdays at Castle Community Centre, Torrington, at 5.30pm or 7pm or call Tracy on 07787 010 400.

you visited local care homes, did some doorstep deliveries of cream teas for people who could not attend, and then came along to the cream tea itself.

It was lovely for our guests to see your costumes close-up, especially those who were unable to see the May Fair procession.

Congratulations on performing your duties at May Fair so well, and thank you for your support with our cream tea – you all looked fabulous.

In organising this event council officers and staff worked closely with Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School, social prescribers, and Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity, who all helped with reaching members of the community to invite to the cream tea. We also worked with Torrington Rotary Club, who provided the transport for many guests: these people would not have been able to attend without this valuable support and we sincerely thank you all for giving up your time to allow these people to

access this event.

Community events take a lot of time and organisation behind the scenes, and this one involved working with different groups within the community to enable others to access a social celebration of this historic event. This kind of community coordination is something that Great Torrington excels at and we thank everyone who played their part in making it happen.

WILLS

POWERS OF ATTORNEY

TRUSTS

INHERITANCE TAX ADVICE

PHILIP W TAYLOR LLB LEGAL CONSULTANT Free initial consultation & estimate, no obligation.

Low rates (no VAT). Free home visits in EX38 area. Evening & weekend appointments available.

Contact me for a free consultation.

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

17

Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Available in Torrington

01805 Drain clearing Oakwell Drain clearing CCTV surveys CCTV surveys

Kitchens Ltd 622614 Repairs/Relining Repairs/Relining

New private ear wax removal clinic covering Torrington & North Devon No more waiting weeks, we can sometimes accomodate same week appointments & occasionally same day!

Call 07367 116 468 or visit our website www.devon-ear-clinic.co.uk 4 Well Street Torrington EX38 8EP

Septic Tank Septic Tankand and Treatment plant Treatment plantinstallation installation

Sa

Qua

We

Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251 www.oakwellkitchens.co.uk

was atNEWS Hatherleigh Communit Mayor’s Diary GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL to see many of their residents Another hectic month has passed.

Community Awards. This is s Helen and I have represented the awards we Town at many civic Coronationthe Badges & have in To which recognise people wh e would like to say a big thank-you and recognise the valuable events, including Books made a difference to their town church services for the contribution of all those Town Councillors who stood down this year. Di It was lovely to at last welco Chairs of North Devon Davey has been a long-standing councillor and former Mayor, and has be involved with, the Indu District Council and worked tirelessly, particularly to represent issues around health and well-being. Gill Father Lawrence MacLean. W District Clayton has chaired the Environment Committee with great passion and given a Torridge new he and his family will be very Council. direction to considerations included during these meetings. Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin has our town, and the Church Fe We enjoyed a trip to Bideford to been a passionate advocate for local issues for many years, but is now out of area. th Vicarage was a good opportun watch their Regatta and on 10 Jonathan Rose, Harry Cox, and Laura Ward have all made valuable contributions to all to meet them.

September watched the spectacular Great Torrington Town Council over the past five years – we would like to thank all of The Co-op and Town Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, you for your time spent representing the Town Council. arranged a Harvest Festiva with visiting bands coming from all over As we say goodbye, we also say hello! We are welcoming Cllr Lauren Bright and Pannier Market on the UK. Cllr Penelope Hewitt as new Town Councillors; we look forward to working with Fair you. is always a wellthe 11th September.

Barnstaple Full list of Great Torrington Town Council Members: Councillor K Allin;day, with all the “Chain This was the first supported Councillor C Bright; Councillor L Bright; Councillor M Brown; Councillor Callaghanone organised and I Gang” B out in force to celebrate the Martin; Councillor P Cloke; Councillor S Ford; Councillor P Hewitt; Councillor D Fair. The weather was think it will become a tradition of the regularth event on the Maisey; Councillor D Parish; Councillor S Mills; Councillor D Smith. kind as we walked around town, whilst n Friday May 7 thecalendar.

Torrington the declaration of the opening of the Mayor attended Great Finally, we tried to attend Notice of Great Torrington Mayoral Introduction Fair was read. Immediately after the Torrington Bluecoat Primary Macmillan coffee mornings as formal part of the proceedings had Ceremony School to present the Pupil Council and in fact ended up going finished, we dashed down to Newquay.

Notice is hereby given that: representatives with badges to This is a wonderful charity an It was time for Helen to put on a ‘posh The inauguration of the Mayor of Great Torrington Town Council will be held at commemorate surprising that it’s so well su frock’ for a reception celebrating the Great Torrington Community Hall on Tuesday 6th June 2023 at 7pm.

After all those coffees we we the Coronation ‘South West in Bloom’ competition.

The meeting is open to members of the public who are most welcome. If you are Soap Kitchen shop to see Le King We thstill had to wait untilofthe following planning to attend, please let the Town Council know by Tuesdayday 30 toMay so Richard Phillips who celebra Charles hear2023 the results, and were III, proud that we can make suitable arrangements for refreshments. Contact are when as years of business on 30th Se anddetails delighted it was announced during a follows: phone 01805 626135 or e-mail admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk Congratulations to you both. that the Torrington in Bloom team had celebration I look forward to hearing fro won a Silver Gilt (lastassembly. year it was Coronation Memories you have an event or anniver silver). Thank you to the committee, Badges e would love to collect your stories of how you celebrated theand recent to tell me about – just traders individuals were who distributed work so towant all other children Coronation. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to rememberhard the Coronation 01805 625662, or our s to enhanceofour surroundings in at Bluecoats from Reception to Year 6 Queen Elizabeth II, we would love to hear about that Great too, and see how We will Pauline at the Council offices o Torrington. latersoon in thehave day. 626135. things have changed in 70 years. the opportunity of meetingCoronation-themed the judges books were Councillor Richard R Contact us by phone 01805 626135 or e-mail admin@great-torringtontowncouncil. to find out how we can do even better donated to the Bluecoat Nursery and to Tow gov.uk or jot your memories down on a piece of paper and drop them letter is GOLD!!

– our into next our challenge Little Frogs Pre-School for the children box at Castle Hill, or pop in and see us and we will jot them down forOur you.last We out-of-town hope engagement to share and enjoy. you all had a great time celebrating!

Council Elections

W

O

W

Dom STEGGLES TREE SERVICES Merton 01805 603924.

Personally Supervised

by Andrew & Janice Gist www.themaltscoop.co.uk/info@themaltscoop.co.uk Excellent home-made food served every day 12-2pm/6-9pm Great selection of01805 wines, 622364 real ales, ciders Open fire and snug rooms 18 Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am Rolle Canal & Northern

TREE REMOVAL AND PRUNING, INCLUDING HEDGES

NO OBLIGATION - FREE QUOTATION NO JOB TOO SMALL - FULLY QUALIFIED AND INSURED

TEL: 01805 622868 - MOB: 07876 454361 EMAIL: davestegg@hotmail.co.uk

could be as simple as a£1.blue depending on the season, may well be £2(this per child – under 1s £1 – siblings Saturday 13th

Ask fo

Local, fri CRB Che

Blackberry Farm Shop

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

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

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

Fleur’s Gardening Forum Keep your Roses blooming! une and July are the months when roses put on their main show, so here are a few tips to keep them flowering and how to encourage more blooms for next year.

Most rambler roses have one main flowering with perhaps a few later on, depending upon the variety. Once flowering has finished, the old stems can be cut back to new vigorous shoots that will carry next year’s blooms. Train these in as they grow away, bending the stems gently to encourage more flowers (you restrict the flow of sap to the underside of the stem, so that more sap/ nutrients flow along the upper side, thus producing more shoots). Most ramblers do not need too much feeding, but if you have been very drastic with pruning, you may want to mulch with some well-rotted manure during late winter.

Climbers, whether it is a shrub or HT type, can be treated similarly to upright versions, training in the new shoots as they grow away. (See above).

Old fashioned shrub roses also usually flower only once and you can trim these back during winter/spring – a later pruning of some shoots may extend the flowering period. They may need thinning from time to time and a good mulch is also recommended.

Hybrid tea roses used to be the epitome of many formal borders and they were often planted en-masse. They went out of fashion for a time, possibly because breeders so hybridised them that they lost their perfume, but today’s

J

new cultivars have had that essential ingredient reintroduced. Hybrid teas flower right through to autumn if the weather is kind, but you need to deadhead to maintain the show. Cut away flowered stems to an outward facing bud (a bit like a mini-prune) and you can give a little booster feed if necessary.

Modern shrub roses should be deadheaded in a similar manner, although they do not need such drastic pruning during winter. All you need do is to maintain a good open bushy habit and they will give you years of colour.

Floribunda or cluster-flowered roses have a mass of flowers at the top of the stem. Remove spent flowers until that stem has completely gone over, then trim back to a new bud as per HT roses. You need to maintain several good, strong stems because the mass of blooms can be top heavy in which case, some support may be required.

Pot grown roses need extra feeding during the flowering season. Repot with fresh, soil based compost such as John Innes No. 3, mixed in with some very well-rotted manure in autumn or early spring. Prune as you would other roses.

Guard against black spot by treating with a fungicide as soon as new foliage emerges in spring, and clean up around the base of the rose as well. Aphids can be dealt with by gently rubbing them off, but if you have blue tits nesting nearby, they will do the job for you!

Fleur

Marland Memories Revisited

Sunday, 2nd July 2023 2-6pm in the Peters Marland Parish Hall here will be another opportunity to see the exhibition of Peters Marland parish photographs, featuring residents, properties and social events from the late 1800s to the present day.

The exhibition includes: Marland clayworks and the brickworks together with photographs of the railway which served it; farming methods past and present; Peters Marland brides and bridegrooms; “Miss Peters Marland”, girls who represented the parish at the Torrington Carnivals; the Queen’s Coronation and the Platinum Jubilee, as celebrated by Peters Marland residents; the Women’s Institute from 1947 to the present day social group, and bellringers past and present. A series of group photographs of pupils of Peters Marland village school, which closed in 1949, together with pictures featuring residents of Yarde Cottages during the 1950s and 1960s. There will also be interviews, recorded in the early 1970s with elderly residents born and bred in the parish, along with people’s school and wartime memories in Peters Marland.

To complete the afternoon cream teas will be served.

Admission £5. (Under 16s free) Proceeds in aid of The Moore-Stevens Hall. Helen Stapleton 01805 601776.

T

A J Installations Alistair McMillan specialising in

Aerial, Satellite and TV Installations Got equipment you can’t use properly?

We offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service With over 35 years’ experience in the North Devon area

Phone Ali on 01805 804626 or 0797 781 00 88

19

Torrington Scouts

T

he Beavers started the summer term off with their disability badge. They tried to put themselves in other people’s shoes. They had a go at navigating obstacles whilst blindfolded, played games where they couldn’t speak and explored how we could make our hut more accessible for all. They all learnt something new, while having some fun. Beavers then started their navigator badge.

They all brought maps to look at and compared differences. They learnt the points of a compass and drew a map of an area they knew.

The Scouts started the term off with a mix up of all the patrols, alongside some back-to-basics like putting up tents before the district camp. The following weekend, 12 young people from Torrington went off to district camp, to take part in all the activities on offer, as well as three nights camping in tents. The theme to the camp was ‘Mission Snapperable’, which involved lots of secret missions, including moving briefcases and complete secret missions. Some of the activities they tried were Zorb football, woggle making, climbing, air rifle shooting, archery, tomahawk throwing, camp fire, silent disco, inflatable games, water fight and so much more. This was such an affordable camp at £35, and gave the Scouts the opportunity to meet so many like-minded people. Some quotes from those who went follow…

“Great time, plenty of food, lots of activities. Favourite was climbing and caving, absolutely bargain”, Farran.

“I really enjoyed all the games, met lots of new friends and got to do activities I’ve never done before”, Isadora.

We urgently need help at Beavers, Cubs and Scouts if you’re willing to spare a couple hours here and there contact our Group Scout Leader Jordon Whitear on jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Abbeyfield

W

e invite you to join us for coffee and cake on the third Friday of each month, between 10.30am and 12 noon. It is an opportunity to have some lively conversation, meet our residents and perhaps see what we can offer in accommodation, if you are looking, for yourself or a loved one. Currently we have accommodation to let, including a ground floor flat suitable for a couple. To find out more, ring our House Manager on 01805 623605.

If you live alone and are missing company, why not join us for a delicious twocourse Sunday lunch for only £6.50? To book a place please ring our House Manager (see above for contact details).

Our Summer Fête will be on Saturday July 8th from 12-3pm in the garden of Glen Tor in Villa Road. There will be food, stalls, a raffle, tombola, musical entertainment and great company, so please put the date in your diary now!

20

Little Torrington WI

M

ay’s meeting saw our AGM, and the re-election of our president Jen Hood, with a strong committee to support her throughout the coming year. The Secretary’s report highlighted the diverse activities that the WI offers its members. Everything from woodland walks, book club, art groups and ladies who lunch.

The WI has been looking into environmental issues locally, nationally and globally, after our climate change speaker at our April meeting. The resolution to vote on at the WI national conference at the end of May is ‘Clean rivers for people and wildlife’. We are in the process of setting up a members’ self-help group to discuss what we can do individually, as well as locally and nationally.

Book Club will meet on the third Monday of the month and is currently reading ‘The Last House on Needless Street’, Catrina Ward.

The ladies that lunch are meeting on the third Wednesday of the month and are lunching at the Imperial in Barnstaple. The WI main meeting is on the second Tuesday of the month.

For further information please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.

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 Contact Sharon 01805 622543

Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Waterways Society Guided Walks Programme Summer 2023

T

he Rolle Canal walks take place on summer weekends starting at 2.30pm. They are guided

by Rolle Canal Society members and, where on private ground, permission has kindly been granted by the land-owners.

However, individuals take part at their own risk and must take responsibility for their own safety at all times. The distance is usually around two miles and the aim is to locate and identify surviving clues to the history of the Rolle Canal, and other transport links between Great Torrington and the Torridge estuary. The income, from the small charge of £2 per person, makes a valuable contribution to the society's work in improving access along the canal and providing interpretation of the major features.

No booking is required - all welcome.

Please note that some walks include private land where dogs may not be permitted. Up to date details of each walk will normally be published in the local press and on our Facebook page and website: rollecanalsociety.com. If you need any further information, please email Ian Harrison at: halehillfarm@ gmail.com Sunday 18th June 2.30pm: Rosemoor: The Dark Weir, Canal Basin and Lime Kilns. Starting from the end of the new extended car park at RHS Rosemoor Gardens near Great Torrington, this is an opportunity to walk beyond the public gardens through attractive woodland to Darkham Weir on the River Torridge from where the waters to feed the Rolle Canal

were taken.

Then follow the Mill Leat to the recently cleared canal basin, effectively the terminus of the Rolle Canal. Here the old lime kilns can be seen as well as the foundations of a Tucking Mill.

(Rosemoor operates a strict no dogs policy.). Length, about two and a half miles. Meet at 2.30pm at the far end of the RHS Rosemoor car park.

Sunday 9th July 2.30pm: Torrington Station to Beam Aqueduct. Start from the Puffing Billy (old Railway Station Inn) and follow the Tarka Trail (old railway line) to where the Rolle Canal skirts Furzebeam Hill. Here the towpath leads to the Roving Bridge behind Beam House and on to the iconic aqueduct over the River Torridge. The Tarka Trail then leads back via Beam Weir to the start point. Length a little over two miles.

Meet at 2.30pm at the Puffing Billy car park.

Saturday 12th August 2.30pm: Sea Lock and Canal Museum. From the temporary car park next to the Annery lime kilns walk along the canal to Sea Lock.

This is an opportunity to see the restoration work on the lock where in the nineteenth century river barges could enter the canal basin from the tidal Torridge estuary. A specially constructed traditional canal-side building houses an archive of photographs and canal artefacts. Distance less than two miles.

Meet at 2.30pm at Annery Kiln.

A number of events centred around Sea Lock are being planned on the day to celebrate the bi-centenary of the commencement of The Rolle Canal and the 20th Anniversary of the formation of the Rolle Canal Society - see website for details in due course.

Sunday 3rd September 2.30pm: Taddiport/Torrington Common.

The headquarters of the Rolle Canal Company was at Taddiport, and several associated buildings and structures can be seen here. From the entrance of the old milk factory, the route proceeds along the Rolle Road, a bridleway which is actually the fairly intact bed of the Rolle Canal, through Torrington Commons.

Then, via the back street ‘ginnels’ off Mill Street, down to the beautiful Torridge-side meadows and back to Taddiport Bridge. A fascinating mixture of nature, past industrial sites, proposed developments and efforts to safeguard ecology. Length, about two miles. Meet at 2.30pm at the entrance to the old milk factory at Taddiport.

21

Torrington in Bloom

A

t last, members of TIB have been able to begin the planting of the flowerbed by S&G Carpets, and we managed to complete the first phase of this project. More planting should take place later in May, as and when the plants we are growing are hardened off and ready to go out.

The expenses for this refurbishment came from the generous donation of funds from the now defunct Torrington Horticultural Club, and since members of that club used to look after the flowerbed, we thought it appropriate that said funds were used thus.

We have planted shrubs, sub-shrubs and perennials that will tolerate this exposed site and that do not need too much attention, i.e., watering etc., at least once they are established. We shall be filling gaps with annuals to give some colour, whilst the main plants establish themselves and, during autumn, we shall be planting bulbs.

Lastly, don’t forget our joint venture with Torrington Rotary Club when we shall be opening gardens in Torrington to raise funds for the Bickford Centre and TIBA. We now have a good number of gardens, of all shapes and sizes, in different parts of the town; some within walking distance of each other and some you will need a car for. The date to put in your diaries is Sunday, 2nd July from 10am-4pm.

Cherry Hammon Torrington in Bloom, 01805 625788 22

Bideford District Photography Group

M

ay heralded in our summer programme, and an immediate change of venue, when we postponed our trip to Bucks Mill after the slipway was closed. Instead, we went to Clovelly and were treated to lovely weather and high drama. At this point I would like to thank all those locals and members who came to the aid of a member who became incapacitated. The anonymous member who we shall call ‘Steve’, had a once in lifetime experience as he was transported to the bottom of the hill on one of the famous sledges, and indeed, treated like royalty, and fortunately all ended well.

The first day trip of the programme visited the ‘The Western Counties’ photographic print exhibition at Bovey Tracey, after which an unanimous decision was taken to visit Stover Country Park for the afternoon. There we were rewarded with sunshine and an abundance of wildlife to photograph.

The ‘Chairs Challenges’ will continue throughout the summer so some weird, wonderful, intriguing and totally perplexing subjects are likely to be set to keep everyone’s creativity going.

There is lots of variety, and places to join us on a visit in a packed programme including: 6 June Tuesday at Wistland Pound 10 June A Saturday at Meeth Nature Reserve 13 June Members night at the Blue Lights Hall Appledore.

27 June An evening around Belstone and Dartmoor 4 July Hartland Quay So, there is a good mix coming up to serve the membership, whatever their tastes.

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

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

th th th

th

Tarka Valley Railway News

T

he poignant, very special, but successful, naming ceremony of our class 143 is behind us and we resumed our working days with renewed vigour.

Unfortunately, we have had numerous rain interruptions when working, and yes, we do have a hosepipe ban in North Devon. However, undeterred, the carriage and wagon group have been able to finally fit the ducket on the 6ft side of the brake van and commence painting. More work is needed on the doors, frames and eventually the roof before we can concentrate on the many other jobs to be dealt with, to include completing work on the clay hood.

The per way team have reconstructed the stop block on the siding, had the pleasurable task of fishplate lubrication and began uncovering the cattle dock, which has seen the light of day for the first time in many years. We also cleared the area to the rear of our container in the concrete yard and surfaced it with track infill to prepare for more storage.

Our Facebook page has weekly updates and the website has much historical information, including videos, photographs and news. It is well worth checking it out wwwtarkavalleyrailway.org, and we are now on Instagram tarkavalleyrailway. We are always looking for new volunteers and you can email us on tarkavalleyrailway@ gmail.com to find out how you can get involved.

Robert Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

O

ur small socials on collection day are becoming well established, and members are enjoying being able to try new foods and others' special dishes. Last time we had tempeh on offer, with a selection of handmade ferments including mustard, a variety of kimchis and pear and pecan chutney, all of which were declared to be delicious. We always leave having learned something new and having shared a few good laughs. If you wonder if OWBG is for you, how it all works or have questions about products, just pop up to Torrington Rugby Club around 12.15pm on June 21st and join us, you'd be very welcome. We're generally still there until 1pm but perhaps clearing up by then. Our internal market has various handmade items for sale, including a range of fermented foods, local raw honey, snacks, veg and other plants and sometimes tinctures. It's a great opportunity to meet up and find out more in a relaxed way.

Wellbeing Tip: Gomashio Gomashio is a traditional Japanese condiment made from roasted sea salt and toasted sesame seeds, ground together by hand in a suribachi with a surikogi.

Salt should never be added raw to food on the plate, as it is extremely yang and unbalancing used in that way. But when it is ground with toasted sesame seeds in just the right proportions and used in moderation, it's an excellent way of adding salty flavour to our plate.

Using a traditional Japanese pestle and mortar (suribachi and surikogi) will give the food naturally calm centred energy, rather than the frenetic whizzy energy generated by electric appliances.

The proportions of salt to sesame seed is important - too much salt will make you feel tight, jumpy and depressed, it needs to be balanced by the yin oils of the sesame seeds.

As a condiment, gomashio is perfect to sprinkle over your rice or other grains

and delicious on porridge - if you haven't tried savoury condiments with good oils on porridge yet, you don't know what you're missing!

To make gomashio: 1 part salt : 20 parts sesame seed Roast 2 teaspoons of sea salt in a pan until it's shiny and crisp.

Set aside into the suribach.

Roast 10 tablespoons of black or brown sesame seeds over a moderate heat, stirring constantly. If you walk away they'll cook unevenly and are likely to singe! They're done when the first one pops (depends on your heat level) or if you can crush a few seeds between your thumb and third finger (ring finger).

Add the toasted seeds to the suribachi and grind steadily until the seeds are partially crushed and the mixture climbs up the sides of the suribachi. I find it helpful to put a damp cloth under the suribachi to keep it firmly in place while I grind.

A suribachi is grooved on the inside, so absolutely perfect for the purpose, much better than a common mortar. It also comes in useful for other jobs too.

Store your gomashio in an airtight glass jar or shaker and enjoy!

Benefits: Condiments aid digestion and add extra minerals and vitamins, but do avoid commercial products as they will have a very high salt content. Gomashio is high in calcium, iron, and vitamins A and B. It is also very strengthening.

Upcoming grocery final order dates: 15th June, 13th July How do I join? Via our Facebook page or website, full info on the website!

What does membership cost? Free What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623 307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk OWBG Website:owbg.jimdofree.com Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Email: owbg@protonmail.com www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

Torrington Silver Band

T

orrington Silver Band was delighted to play our part in May Fair 2023. We thoroughly enjoyed the day, and it is always a

huge honour to be involved in such an important date in Great Torrington’s calendar.

The roof of Howe Concert Hall is still an issue, and we are currently in the stages of gathering quotes and advice.

We will be putting on several events in the coming months to help raise money towards the roof repair. However, we are pleased to report we have fixed the issues with the ceiling, which means we are now able to put some dates in the diary.

On Saturday 8th July you are invited to join us for a concert at Howe Concert Hall. We will be performing a repertoire of musical masterpieces to suit all ages and tastes. As always there will be a raffle with some fantastic prizes and refreshments during the interval.

Doors will open at 7pm and the concert will begin at 7:30pm. Tickets will be available on the door at £6, entry for children is free. Everyone welcome!

We are on the lookout to fill a number of vacancies within the Band. We are in need of trombone, Bb bass and cornet players and a new drummer to play the drum kit. We practice on Monday and Wednesday evenings, 8pm till 9:30pm. We are delighted to have our Drum Corp up and running again, they practice on Tuesday evenings at 7pm and are always willing to welcome new members. If you are interested in any of these vacancies, please send us a message through our Facebook page or email secretary@ torringtonsilverband.com.

Torrington Silver Band

23

Great Torrington Water Forum

C

24

limate change is primarily a Growing demand for water water crisis. We feel its impacts increases the need for through worsening floods, rising energy-intensive water sea levels, shrinking ice fields, wildfires pumping, transportation, and droughts. and treatment, and However, water can fight climate has contributed to the change. Sustainable water management degradation of critical is central to building the resilience water-dependent carbon of societies and ecosystems and to sinks such as peatlands. reducing carbon emissions. Everyone Water-intensive agriculture for food and has a role to play – actions at the dairy production can further exacerbate individual and household levels are vital. water scarcity. The river Torridge sees Did you know that on average in the effects of uncontrolled intensive Great Torrington we use 140 litres of farming. Nearly nine in 10 farms in water per person per day (l/p/d)? That North Devon were not compliant with is a tremendous amount of water, and those regulations and two-thirds were is the direct water causing pollution, "Did you know that on average in according to usage without Great Torrington we use 140 litres a 2020 report. considering your water footprint! Of of water per person per day(l/p/d)? The farmers That is a tremendous amount of need help and course averages water, and is the direct water usage encouragement can give a distorted view, without considering your water to stop the accurate figures footprint! Of course averages can pollution, as well are not available as policing. This give a distorted view..." because not all has to come customers are on a metered supply. from Central Government. In India and Leaks are included in the overall figure. Egypt pollution levels in some rivers, I don’t use anything like that amount as I due to agricultural practices, have been suspect many of you don’t, some people reduced after a change in method was must be using large amounts. introduced.

What is clear is that the figure of Susan Davy, CEO of Pennon, owners 140l/p/d has to be reduced within the of South West Water, has declined a next few years or we will have a major pay rise for the last two years and has water crisis. Water is too cheap, but we also refused a bonus this year (last have members of our community who year’s bonus was £522,000). SWW cannot afford the water they use now. spilt untreated sewage 37,649 times The way water is charged for has to last year, Ms Davy, Chief executive change: one proposal is to have block since 2020, has blamed South West rates with a basic, affordable charge Water’s poor record on sewage spills for a set amount and rising charges for on “population growth, tourism and volumes in excess of this. This would, of lockdowns”. I would suggest it is a course, mean all supplies being metered lack of investment in technology and and some knowledge of the number of infrastructure. This can be financed people being supplied from each meter, in part by suspending shareholder or perhaps just an assumed number dividends for one or even two years based on bedrooms or local tax band. and using that money to improve the Our local authorities can help situation. As a shareholder, I for one by insisting all new developments would support that. (preferably for local people at affordable Contact us: gtwaterforum@ prices) and modifications to property are gmail.com or Facebook water neutral.

‘GreatTorringtonWaterForum’.

Nourished Drop-in Torrington

Breastfeeding and infant feeding support Thursdays 10-11.30am

E

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

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

Our Torrington drop-in is held at the Torrington Children's Centre at Bluecoats School. We will provide refreshments if you can bring a travel mug.

How can you help me?

We can support you with: breastfeeding latch issues; sore nipples; coping with night feeds; bottle feeding; expressing; returning to work; breastfeeding twins (we have three peer supporters who’re twin mums!); tandem feeding; breastfeeding in pregnancy; milk supply worries; weight gain issues; introducing solids and much more!

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

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a £20 online voucher for Munchies Sweet shop. Please send completed crossword with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com. The winner for last issue is Louise Hunter. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 8th June and the solution and winner will be in the July issue.

Jackie & Maxim Brown from Boom Tingz Burgers are delighted to announce the arrival of their new baby... Munchies Online Sweet Shop!

Over 140 different sweeties are available and we're looking to double that over the next few weeks!

You can order online, via Facebook @ Munchies Sweet Shop or WhatsApp +447745202151 for collections, or we can even deliver alongside a Boom Tingz order.

We can cater for all your party needs whether it's a baby shower, wedding or birthday etc., with our colourfull Sweet Cones. Or why not grab a Movie Night kilo gift-wrapped box for only £11 (up to four choices of sweets) or our kilo premixed bags at only £10!

All allergens information can be found on our website or Facebook, and we have a fabulous selection of gluten free, vegetarian, vegan and halal sweeties, which will also include a sugar-free range very soon.

If this is successful as an online shop we will be looking for a proper shop in the very near future, so if you lovely lot want a sweet shop back in town get involved and let's all make this happen!

Currently open from 3pm until 8pm Tuesday to Saturday, order your goodies by heading over to www.munchiestorrington.co.uk and collect within the hour, pick your time slot and date, as you can order upto two weeks in advance!

We have offers on a weekly basis so head over to our Facebook pag and give our page a like to see what we have on offer that week!

Much love, Jackie & Maxim Brown xXxXx

25

Property Market Place Musings

26

Signs that you have fallen out of love with your home As the gentler winds and lighter evenings become the norm, many of us will be ready to welcome a few seasonal changes of our own.

Falling in love with a home is a wonderful feeling, but this love often reaches the end of its natural lifespan long before we think about moving again. Has your family outgrown the space, the décor? Have you started to long for a change of scenery?

Is it simply time to move on? If you’ve asked yourself these questions already, your current home might not be ‘the one’ for you anymore.

Here are some telling signs that you have fallen out of love with your home…

The family has grown up The memories and stories that our homes hold is part of what makes them so special, but it’s also important to make room for new memories. Your home may have been perfect when you first bought it, but with time, large homes can become too small; or as the last bird flees the nest, the home can become too large.

Whether the kids have outgrown their bedrooms, or they’ve grown into adults and left their rooms vacant, the size of your home should fit your current household. Bigger or smaller, a new home should be able to better accommodate you and your family’s needs.

You don’t want to redecorate If you’re feeling uninspired by your surroundings but you can’t muster up the energy to redecorate, it might be time to move on. It’s integral to your well-being that your surroundings fill you with joy and comfort, and the innate urge to change and improve only arises when you’re truly content. To care for ourselves, we must also care for our homes in the same way: by repairing and improving as we go.

A lack of motivation to spruce up your surroundings is a tell-tale sign that you are feeling disconnected from your environment, and you’re likely ready to find somewhere more fitting.

You’ve got a wandering eye With so many beautiful properties on today’s market and such bountiful variety in the modern world, it’s quite normal to daydream about other homes. But if you're always looking elsewhere, it suggests a restless state. You might want to ask yourself what’s missing in your current home to urge you to browse through listings in the evening or crane your neck at the house behind the ‘for sale’ sign as you pass by.

Could your home be someone else’s perfect match?

Finding somewhere new to call home simply means you can take all your wonderful memories with you. Falling out of love doesn’t reflect badly on the property, it only reflects that time has passed. And since you and your family have loved your home so dearly over the years, someone else is bound to fall as head over heels as you once did!

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

Torrington & District Historical Society

D

uring the winter months we enjoy talks on many aspects of history.

Our members have a wide variety of interests: from finding out more about our Roman ancestors and their burial mounds, to those who are interested in family history and how a business has developed which has spanned three centuries. A fascinating talk on the 1952 Lynmouth Flood was delivered by someone who was there, and her descriptions of the events of the day were spine tingling.

In the summer months we have a programme of visits and are looking forward to a visit to a local manor house, and maybe the Rosemoor part of the canal restoration. Fresh Springs in Bideford will be a draw, and a cream tea at the garden of one of our members is all under consideration.

We are also looking forward to being part of the History Alive event. This is being held on Saturday 29th July and we will be welcoming you to a coffee morning at the Methodist Church. The focus will be on the gloving industry in Torrington, so if this was something that you were involved in we would love to hear your memories, otherwise come along and find out about this important industry.

During September and October there is going to be an archaeological dig on Castle Mound on Castle Hill. Lots of local organizations have been invited to take part and The Historical Society will be there.

Meanwhile, our AGM was on Monday 17th April and we were delighted to elect our new committee members. We are always looking for extra help and suggestions for speakers and visits so if you are able to volunteer we would love to hear from you. This was also an opportunity to thank those who have helped over the last year.

Are you interested in history and would like to join us? Contact Pauline on 01805 623089 or email pallen123@btinternet. com.

Maggi Rogers

27

Eight stone-built holidays cottages • Pretty countryside open gardens setting• Comfortably priced • 1-5 bedrooms • Spacious indoors & out • Somewhere for everyone to enjoy. couples, families, family celebrations • Outdoor summer pool, small animal farm, games room, playroom, fast wi-fi.

Torridge House Cottages, Little Torrington 07807 698 224 • www.torridgehouse.co.uk

JUNE events at the plough

Sir Michael Morpurgo comes to The Plough!

W

e’re delighted to welcome our much-valued Patron Michael Morpurgo to our stage on Friday 2nd June at 7.30pm, when he will be presenting ‘An Evening of Songs and Stories’ (suitable for all ages to enjoy).

Michael’s latest book ‘My Heart Was a Tree’ is a discovery of the beauty and wonder of trees and he will be joined by the book’s illustrator Yuval Zommer, who will be demonstrating his drawing skills live. ‘My Heart Was a Tree’ is a celebration, and Sir Michael Morpurgo's love letter to trees. Yuval Zommer's beautiful, detailed illustrations bring the natural world to life, and make this a book to pore over for hours and hours,

28

discovering something new each time.

As the evening begins we’ll also see the winners of this year’s Plough Poetry Prize read their winning poems, judged this year by Imtiaz Dharker. The competition has attracted worldwide interest for 20 years, and the three winners have been picked from over 1,300 entries. Michael has kindly agreed to present the winners with their cash prizes.

We hope you can join us for what promises to be a fascinating look into the minds and skills of some brilliant and emerging creative talent!

Your Plough Arts Centre

JUNE at the Plough

Thurs 1 Until Sat 24: 10am Exhibition: Lost Landscapes by Andrew Hardwick; Artists Wall: Art on Friday group 11am Film: Super Mario Bros Movie (U) 2pm Film: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves (12A) 7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Town, Park & Prison Haunted History Tour ThePlough@StAnne's 7:30pm Film: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves (12A) 7:30pm Poetry/Spoken Word: Plough Storytelling Circle ThePlough@StAnne's Fri 2 2:30pm Theatre: Mark Thompson's Award Winning Spectacular Science Show 6.30pm Open Air Theatre: The Pantaloons Emma by Jane Austen Tapeley Park Gdns 7:30pm Theatre: Michael Morpurgo: An Evening of Songs and Stories (for all ages) Sat 3 11am Film: Super Mario Bros Movie (U) 2pm Film: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves (12A) 8pm Comedy: Rosie Jones: Triple Threat Mon 5 7pm Workshop: Moon Circle ThePlough@ StAnne's Tues 6 10.30am/1.30pm Plough Prism & Motion Dance. For adults with additional needs, (every Tues term-time) 7pm Workshop - Dance: Bioform Dance Theatre with Miranda Jankowska Dance Studio at The Plough Arts Centre 7:30pm Workshop: Ploughcappella The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre 7:30pm Film: All Quiet on the Western Front Weds 7 2pm Film: All Quiet on the Western Front 7:30pm Film: Close Thurs 8 2pm Film: Little Richard: I Am Everything 4.30pm Plough Youth Scriptwriting Group (every week term-time) 7:30pm Film: Little Richard: I Am Everything

8pm Music: The Plough Open Mic The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Fri 9 2pm Film: Little Richard: I Am Everything 7pm Workshop: Gong Bath Meditation ThePlough@StAnne's 7:30pm Film: Dance Craze (12A) Sat 10 10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Fruit Basket Willow Weaving Workshop ThePlough@ StAnne's 10:30am Workshop - Visual Arts: Print the Beach Monotype Workshop ThePlough@ StAnne's 7:30pm Film: Dance Craze (12A) 7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Town Centre Haunted History Tour ThePlough@StAnne's Tues 13 7:30pm Workshop: Ploughcappella The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre 7:30pm Film: Godland (12A) Weds 14 2pm Film: Plan 75 ; 7:30pm Film: Plan 75 8pm Music: Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Thurs 15 2pm Film: Godland (12A) 7:30pm Workshop: Deep Rest Healing Meditation ThePlough@StAnne's 7:30pm Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Town & Workhouse Haunted History Tour ThePlough@StAnne's 8pm Theatre: 'Silo' by Jody Medland Fri 16 2pm Film: Are You There God? It's Me Margaret (PG) 8pm Theatre: 'Silo' by Jody Medland Sat 17 10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Zarzo Basket Weaving Workshop ThePlough@StAnne's 10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Make your own Mugs & Coasters Pottery Workshop ThePlough@StAnne's 7:30pm Film: Are You There God? It's Me Margaret (PG) Sun 18 7:30pm Comedy: Mark Simmons: Quip Off The Mark

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

LOGS FOR SALE Tel: 07971533 235

Tues 20 7pm Workshop - Dance: Bioform Dance Theatre with Miranda Jankowska Dance Studio at The Plough Arts Centre 7:30pm Workshop: Ploughcappella The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Weds 21 2pm Film: Are You There God? It's Me Margaret (PG) 6pm Dance: Resource Dance with Becca Parkinson Dance Studio at The Plough Arts Centre 7:30pm Film: Wicker Man 50th Anniversary + Extra Footage (15) Thurs 22 2pm Film: Are You There God? It's Me Margaret (PG) 7:30pm Film: Finite: The Climate of Change (12A) Fri 23 10am Film: The Little Mermaid (PG) 8pm Music - Rock: Battle of the Bands (Solo/ Duo Night) Sat 24 5pm Film: The Little Mermaid (PG) 7:30pm Film: The Little Mermaid (PG) Sun 25 2pm Film: The Little Mermaid (PG) 4:30pm Film: The Little Mermaid (PG) 7pm Film: The Little Mermaid (PG) Tues 27 7:30pm Workshop: Ploughcappella The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre 7:30pm Film: Mad About The Boy: The Noel Coward Story (cert tbc) Weds 28 2pm Film: Mad About The Boy: The Noel Coward Story (cert tbc) 7:30pm Film: All Quiet on the Western Front Thurs 29 2pm Film: Mad About The Boy: The Noel Coward Story (cert tbc) 7pm Dance: Inspire! Community Dance Celebration Fri 30 2pm Film: Rye Lane (15) 7:30pm Film: Rye Lane (15) Please note, a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings

Dafforn & Son

noS & n Dafforn r o ff a D & S Roger P. Byrom

Independent Family Owned Funeral Directors Torrington

srotceriD larenuF tn01805 Independent edne622263 pednI Funeral Dire 6 New Street, Torrington

24 Hour personal service 7 days a week Funeral plans & monumental masonry

29

TORRINGTON ARMS Open daily from 11am

Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm Takeaways Available Function Room available for all occasions SKY SPORTS • BT SPORT • RACING CHANNELS • POOL DARTS • LIVE MUSIC • QUIZ NIGHTS For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook Last week, one of our Year 10 pupils gave an assembly on a topic they feel very passionate about: disability and discrimination. Lilita told me she hoped to ‘bring awareness to our current generation that just because someone is in a wheelchair, or they need support on a day-to-day basis, doesn't mean they should be treated any differently’. Here is her article based on the assembly she gave. What an inspiration she is!

Disability and Discrimination

My parents run a daycentre for disabled adults which goes by the nameDaisy Chain Social Activity Group ltd.

During the holidays, I help at the centre doing everything from helping clean dishes in the kitchen, to being hands on with the clients. From a young age, I have been surrounded by children and adults with either physical, learning, or mental disabilities and have always been intrigued and fascinated by those with disabilities which will hopefully lead me to pursue a career in the care sector.

No one is the same. We are all different in our own ways. Everyone is entitled to their own rights and opinions. In November of 1995, the UK Government introduced the Disability Discrimination Act. This Act was the first UK legislation protecting disabled people against numerous forms of discrimination. Years of campaigning and protests had led up to the passing of the act including civil disobedience. The Act was passed by the then Prime MinisterJohn Major’s Conservative Government.

The Disability Discrimination Act defined disability as physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term negative effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. The Act provided protection

30

against discrimination in: Employment and Occupation, Education, Transport, Provision of Goods and The Exercise of Public Functions.

The Act was also the first to protect disabled people from multiple kinds of discrimination including: Direct Discrimination- where a disabled person is treated less favourably than another person due to their disability. Failure to make a reasonable adjustment- where any workplace, practice or feature of a premises puts a disabled worker at a disadvantage. Victimisation- where a person is treated poorly because they made a complaint about their treatment as a disabled person.

Today there are unfortunately a handful of people who are cruel towards people with disability. There is a lack of understanding and lack of knowledge, a lot of people are bone idol- they choose to ignore or don’t want to see any difference and don’t want to understand it.

I get to experience what it’s like working alongside those with different abilities and it’s honestly astonishing. I have so much fun with our service users, I have grown so much confidence whilst working with them. They always manage to put a smile on my face after a tough

day or morning and I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to be able to have built such strong relationships with all of the guys who come to our daycentre and use our enabling agency. I love every minute of every day that I am with them and would gladly give up a day with my friends to be at the daycentre. The job role as a carer is so rewarding and when you see anyone of our centre users, you can’t help but feel happy.

For us, it just shows that they are just as special, just as important and just as able as anyone else in our town, in our country and in the world.

They are the same as everyone else, they just need that slight bit of support and encouragement which is totally acceptable. My hope is that everyone else is able to see what us support workers see, and once you get to know who they are inside, you won’t be able to unsee it and you’ll love them just as much as we do for the human beings that they are and what makes them unique.

Lilita Kersey, Year 10

Year 7 have been exploring the life and works of William Shakespeare in their English lessons. After reading some key scenes from Macbeth, pupils had fun writing in the persona of Lady Macbeth, using some lively Shakespearean insults to attack her husband, who she believes is too cowardly to go through with their plan to kill the king.

For their creative writing preparation, Year 11 pupils were tasked with describing a market based on this painting, which led to some wonderful pieces of sensory writing and interesting perspectives: The Market Town

It was my first time selling in Aquitaine, and of all the market towns I’ve been this was by far the most remarkable and visually pleasing. The way the townsfolk had strung the sides of the brilliant brick houses with rustic wooden trays. How they desperately grasp their surroundings in an attempt to prevent themselves from cascading down the stack of refreshing and ripe produce.

A stall across from me was stacked with a superb stock of seafood. Fish the colour of oceans in the night. With eyes like small moons once so full of life, laden with the memory of the fisherman and his knife. Octopi spanned the lower levels of the makeshift counter, a converted dining room table flustered with the scent of meals past gone. Tuna lay motionless on the counters with their magnificent scales glimmering in the morning sun, like jewels.

Venture down the path and you shall find a farmer. He sells his produce to the town, ensuring the animals lived a good life before being humanely put down. Their insides so carefully carved from the carcass that once housed them to result in the roots of so many delicacies the wealthy take for granted. Various cuts of meat kept sanitized and clean in the busy bustling back alleys lay rest in a refrigerated unit.

Nearing the end of the path you reach the cheeses. As you approach your senses become obscured, you’re rushed with a cacophony of smells: stinking Swiss, childish Cheddar and of course wild Wensleydale. The perfect mix to send you stumbling over in your understanding of taste; their intricate shapes, their remarkable structures, their terrific tastes flood the mind confusing any who pass by.

Return to me and you’ll find baskets of pale eggs, as though cleaned in chalk and trays of terrific tomatoes.

Marcus Worth, Year 11

Lady Macbeth Songs

1.

I am Lady Macbeth and I am the best, But my husband over there is a flibbertigibbet Along with a tickle brain!

He is fake and useless But I reign!

He always breaks his promises And acts not like a man.

He said he would Kill the King for me but now he’s not Because he’s having second thoughts.

In my eyes he’s no man And I rule this kingdom!

He lays in bed at night With one eye open in fright, He now has restless nights After having second thoughts On killing the King, But I am Lady Macbeth and I am the BEST! Flo Baxter, Year 7 2.

My husband, a whey-face What a total disgrace.

I need to make him a man And put him back in his place.

I know he’s big and he’s tall But he has no courage at all.

I cannot be with a man Who has blood on his hands.

Duncan the Scottish King must Meet his death At the hands of me and my husband….

Emily Hall, Year 7

31

Ghostly Tales from Great Torrington

library, where he can be seen sitting in a chair, reading a book. Others have reported seeing him walking the reat Torrington, an historic town corridors, a lost spirit, where he walks in North Devon, is famous for slowly as if searching for something. the Battle of Great Torrington His footsteps have been heard echoing which took place on 16th February 1646. through the halls late at night, a troubled The conflict was between the forces of soul unable to move on to the next world.

King Charles I and the Parliamentarians One of the most compelling accounts and is remembered as one of the most of the ghost of the soldier came from a important battles of the English Civil member of the estate’s staff. According War. At the time the town was held by to this individual, they were working late the Royalists, a strong command under one night when they heard footsteps Sir Ralph Hopton, with a force of around coming down the hallway towards them.

3,500 men that included both cavalry and As they turned round to see who was infantry. approaching, they were shocked to see The opposition, the Parliamentarians a spectral figure dressed in a Civil War – a force of around 5,000 men – led uniform who appeared to be searching

by Sir Thomas Fairfax and Oliver for something. The staff member froze Cromwell, had been pursuing Hopton’s in terror as the soldier appeared to pass army for some considerable time. On right through them before disappearing 16th February they finally caught up with into thin air. them just outside Great Torrington. The Those brave enough to explore the Royalists were heavily outnumbered, halls of the mansion at night might well but put up a brave and fierce resistance. experience this ghostly vision, but who They barricaded themselves inside the knows what other secrets and mysteries town, using houses and other buildings they might uncover. as fortifications. These fortifications, The Black Dog however, were not sustainable as the The Black Parliamentarians bombarded the town Dog of Great with artillery, breaching the defensive Torrington, is a walls with explosives. legend that has Despite a brave fight, the been passed Parliamentarians gradually gained down through ground on the Royalists who were the generations. eventually overwhelmed and had to This supernatural surrender. Hopton himself was captured entity is said to and taken prisoner. appear as a large, black dog with glowing Castle Hill eyes and an eerie aura. It has been Castle Hill, a portion of the town that seen wandering around the streets of saw bitter fighting, is the location of a the town and surrounding countryside. stunning mansion that was built in the It is believed that anyone encountering early 1700s. It is an estate that has seen the black dog will succumb to bad luck, a lot of history and the legend goes that misfortune or even death. it is haunted by the ghost of a soldier that According to folklore, the black dog fought in the Battle of Great Torrington. first appeared in the town during the 16th His body lay on the grounds of the century. It gained a reputation as being a estate once the battle was spent and harbinger of death and tragedy as it often it is believed his ghost still haunts the appeared shortly before disasters such property to this day. as fires, plagues and battles.

Although the soldier has no name, his Perhaps the most famous account ghost has been seen by many people dates back to the 17th century, at the over the years and his presence is often time of the English Civil War. The town felt in certain areas of the mansion. was under siege by Royalist forces and 32 Some have reported seeing him in the

G

the black dog appeared on the eve of a major battle. Lured by its presence, the townspeople followed the dog as it guided them to safety through the surrounding countryside and away from the fighting. In this instance, the heroism of the giant black dog has become a source of local pride and inspiration.

Despite its supernatural origins, the legend of the black dog has become a beloved part of Great Torrington’s cultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the town’s history and resilience, featuring in local art, literature and music. Visitors coming to the town want to learn more about the legend and perhaps to catch a glimpse of the elusive canine for themselves.

The Globe Hotel The Globe Hotel is located in Great Torrington and dates back to the 18th century. Originally built as a coaching inn and a stopping point for travellers on their way to and from Cornwall, it is steeped in history.

In the 19th century the hotel became a popular meeting place for local businesses and was even used as a courthouse, due to its central location in the town, as well as its size and distinctive architecture. The building has a grand façade with a central entrance and impressive Corinthian columns.

When it served as a courthouse, the Globe Hotel was an important site for the administration of justice in North Devon.

It was a place where local disputes were settled, where criminal cases were heard. The court was located on the first floor, featuring a large bench for the presiding judge, as well as seating for witnesses and members of the public.

In addition to its role as a courthouse, the hotel has also played an important part in the town’s social and cultural life. It has hosted numerous events and gatherings, including concerts, dances and public meetings.

Over the years, many people have reported paranormal activity at the Globe. There are believed to be several ghosts haunting the premises, including a phantom-like figure of a coachman who has been seen walking the hotel’s

courtyard and the ghost of a woman who has been seen in the hotel’s bar. But perhaps the most famous ghost is that of a young girl named Elizabeth. She is believed to have been the daughter of a former landlord of the Globe, and that she died tragically at a young age. The vision of Elizabeth has been seen in various parts of the hotel, including the bar area and stairway.

In addition to these ghostly sightings, there have also been reports of unexplained noises, strange smells and other unusual occurrences at the Globe Hotel.

The Old Railway Line The old railway line that ran through Great Torrington has long been the subject of local ghost stories. A ghostly figure haunts the abandoned tracks, appearing to unsuspecting passers-by in the dead of night.

The apparition is believed to be that of a railway worker who lost his life in a tragic accident many years ago. It is said that he had been working on the tracks when a passing train struck him, killing him instantly. His ghost has been seen wandering the tracks still dressed in his work clothes, his tools under his arm.

Those who have witnessed this spectral figure also reported hearing strange noises, such as the sound of a distant train whistle or the clanging of metal tools against the tracks. This lone figure has been seen on many an occasion, searching for a way to move on, staring out into the distance looking for an answer.

Today, the old railway station serves as a welcoming café, aptly named Puffing Billy, for visitors and anyone using the Tarka Trail, a walking and cycling route taking the place of the old tracks.

Whether or not you believe in ghosts, these stories will remain a source of fascination and intrigue for generations to come. Whether they are just a figment of someone’s imagination, or they are real spirits that appear from beyond the grave, they are stories that will continue to capture our imaginations. I will leave you to make up your own mind.

Vivien Head

For more information on joining Great Torrington Army Cadet Force please contact the Detachment Commander: SSI Lauren O’Halloran 7518ohallo@armymail.mod.uk We parade on Tuesdays in the grounds of Great Torrington school from 18:50 until 21:15

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café

B

eaford Village Hall Market & Café is held on the second Saturday of the month 10am-12pm. Come along and grab yourself a coffee and a bacon roll, then have a look around at what the market has to offer. The stalls vary, but we regularly have: The Body Shop, Usborne Books, Linda's handmade cards, Beaford Ladies Group, local honey, Spencer's Glass, Sam's Household and Stuff and others. We also have a large free car park!

We look forward to seeing you! The next dates are 13th May, 10th June.

Look for Beaford Village Hall on Facebook, and follow us to keep up to date with all of our events!

33

Torrington Methodist Church

A

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

Sunday Worship 10.30am at Church.

Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom email sarahrichards185@gmail.com to request the link.

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

Our premises (various rooms, incl. wifi, projector) are available to hire, see website or phone Sheila 01805 622949.

Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.

Pause for Thought

A

re you living your best life now? I have a friend who, when I ask how are you? he always replies “I’m living the dream”. Living the dream.

How many of us feel that way? Or does our happiness and contentment depend on a change in our circumstances? Like “when I get a better job, when I get married, when I have a family when they start school, leave school, go to uni, move to their own home”. The list goes on, you can probably add your own “whens” to that list.

It’s true life does follow a pattern of different events, but are we living in the moment or waiting, looking forward to the next change in our circumstances.

There is a saying: Yesterday's history, tomorrow’s a mystery but today is a gift that's why it's called the present.

Jesus said “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full” or as the Message puts it “I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of”.

So are you living in the present and seeing each day as a gift? Or do you find yourself continually looking back to yesterday or forward to tomorrow?

We all have events we look forward to, a wedding, birth of a child etc., but on a day-to-day basis we can live in the fullness of life Jesus came to give you.

You are very welcome to attend any of the Churches in the town, who will gladly give you more information, maybe you could attend an Alpha course and learn more about becoming a Christian? Or call Kathy 07702 589 799. Psalm 90 says “Teach us to number our days aright that we may gain a heart of wisdom”. I’m sure you agree we need to be wise.

Trish Andrew

Newton Tracey Cricket Club

N

ewton Tracey Cricket Club seeks youngsters to join out youth training plan for 2023.

The awful weather has delayed everything, but we hope to get going at the end of May/early June with the Allstars and Dynamos programmes.

You can join via the following links: ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/Course/d6190677-94dc-4488-8c19-9df8ecfa9bb3 ecb.clubspark.uk/Dynamos/Course/0768d913-edeb-47c6-8bfd-d12f625630d4 For the more advanced, we are looking to do a hardball team, no online application for this, but contact me for details, up to age 11. For senior players, we have several teams suitable for different abilities at weekends.

Graham Moore, 07760 197 550, graham.moore62@btinternet.com

NEW PHONE NUMBER! 01805 624141 34

FOR FAST, FRIENDLY, LOCAL SERVICE CALL ROB ON 01805 624141 OR 07717 313194

WE CARE, BECAUSE WE CARE ABOUT YOU QUALITY LOCAL PERSONAL HOME CARE TO ENABLE YOU TO LIVE YOUR LIFE THE WAY YOU WANT IN YOUR OWN HOME.

TALK TO US ABOUT THE DIRECT PAYMENT SCHEME, THE EASY WAY FOR YOU TO DECIDE WHO PROVIDES YOUR CARE. PERSONAL CARE, HOME HELP & DOMESTIC SERVICES. INDIVIDUAL, TAILORMADE CARE PLANS.

01805 628066 PHIL OR HAYLEY 07442 507593

FULLY TRAINED AND ENHANCED DBS CHECKED STAFF. TORRINGTON BASED OFFICES AND MANAGERS 3 WELL STREET, GREAT TORRINGTON, EX38 8EP REGULATED BY THE CARE QUALITY COMMISSION peeweespersonalhomecare@btconnect.com

Early Summer Colour

T

he manic months of spring have finally ended and summer has started to introduce its own feel, bringing in new colours, smells and textures into 2023’s summer display.

Suddenly, luscious new growth is filling up every bare patch of soil, and we feel relieved that we spent the time staking herbaceous perennials that we thought couldn’t possibly grow so big so fast! Many of the deep purple, towering alliums, such as Allium macleanii 'His Excellency' and Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation' AGM in the Hot Garden at RHS Garden Rosemoor, are beginning to lose their place in the limelight as they begin to fade and other garden delights compete to steal the show.

Dierama pulcherrimum (angel’s fishing rod), Centaurea montana (perennial cornflower) and Digitalis (foxgloves) are just a few of the earlier splashes of summer colour in the Cottage Garden.

Many bees, moths, butterflies and other pollinators are often seen enjoying the sweet nectar and pollen from these impressive flowers.

Roses aren’t shy to join in, as the Shrub Rose and Queen Mother’s Rose Gardens burst with colour and fragrance from their first flush of flowers. It won’t be long until regular deadheading is needed

to encourage further blooms as the older ones drop their petals.

Growing beautifully amongst the climbing and shrub roses, such as climbing Rosa 'Dortmund' (S) and rambling Rosa ‘Paul Transon’ Ra, in the Shrub Rose Garden, are a variety of other wonderful gems that contribute to the dazzling display. Lychnis (campion), Stachys (Lamb’s ear) and Nepeta (Catnip) help to soften the garden room, making it a welcoming and relaxing place to rest. Clematis and hardy geraniums can also be found in the rose gardens

and in other areas, such as this vivid Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' in the Model Gardens.

If you’d like to discover more about Geraniums and Pelargoniums, RHS Garden Rosemoor is hosting the Pelargonium and Geranium Society National Show on June 17th 2023.

Fran Camilleri, Horticulturist Rosa 'Dortmund' (S) and rambling Rosa ‘Paul Transon’ Ra in the Shrub Rose Garden ©RHS/Richard Bloom; Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' ©RHS/Mark Bolton

35

Adam Woodhouse Windows Ltd trading as

AW Windows

Windows - Doors - Conservatories - Cladding Fascias, Soffits & Gutterings All aspects uPVC, wood, aluminium & glass

07968 472972 • 01409 261811

aw.windows@hotmail.co.uk • www.adamwoodhousewindows.co.uk

Welcome to Active Torridge

We manage the local pools Torridge, Torrington & Holsworthy. Our friendly & welcoming centres offer something for everyone in the local community.

With great value memberships on offer or PAYG we will ensure you reach your goals & enjoy the journey.

Come and join one of our pool session or classes Visit www.activetorridge.co.uk for timetables & information Email hello@activetorridge.co.uk with any enquiries

Saturdays 11.45am-12.45pm Sundays 11.30am-12.30pm £5 per person

just

Fun

The Puffing Billy Cafe

open 10-4 daily 01805 623050

New garden & deck area available for 2023!

36