Torrington Crier March 2021 by The Torrington Crier

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March 2021 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.

Read The Crier Online

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

Contact us... Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon. We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication. Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please. Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk Town Distribution: Matt Joy Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

Thank You

We would like to thank the Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity and Great Torrington Town Council, who have provided support towards the cost of using Royal Mail to deliver the Crier through the pandemic. This has enabled us to ensure that important news and information can still be shared throughout our community, when it hasn't been possible to use our normal deliverers. We have been overwhelmed by the continued support from our advertisers, and are so pleased to have been able to continue getting their businesses into 5900 homes across the area, even more important at this time. Our contributors have also continued to provide editorial throughout, and we have had many comments from readers saying how much they enjoy receiving their copy each month.

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

Disclaimer:

The Crier does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, legality or reliability of any information, product or service represented within our publication or on our web site. The information provided is for informational, educational or entertainment purposes only. Anyone using the information provided by The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Crier from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use. The Crier does not endorse or recommend any product, service or information found within said articles. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to The Crier belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Crier or its team. Website links from The Crier or its website are provided for convenience only. The Crier is not responsible for the content or availability of any external or 3rd party sites and does not warrant or guarantee the products, services, or information found on these sites.

Behind the Scenes at Torrington Town & Community Hall

ur Town and Community Hall would not function without the help of so many generous volunteers in our community who give us their time and support. We also value enormously the drive and enthusiasm of Anne Tattersall, our part-time business development manager, who is currently on furlough until the end of March. We’ve had a few recent changes on our Management Board and the new line up is: Chair: Sandra Crawley Vice Chair: Nigel Lewis-Carpenter Secretary: Helen Rumbold Treasurer: Tony McLoughlin Trustees: Sue Mills; Matt Whittaker; Paula Langer; Rosemary Purcell Advisers: Carolyn Walker; Ian Lovett; Henry Harraway; Grant Langer We have recently said goodbye to Richard Rumbold, Brian Davies, Margaret Brown and Cathrine Simmons, who were original members of the Board during the refurbishment project, and would like to extend enormous thanks to them for their tremendous hard work and commitment in steering this major project to conclusion. All of our team have a broad range of skills which are vital to our success - but we could always do with more willing volunteers - so if you are interested, please contact us. We are certainly facing challenging times ahead but with the support of the community we can ensure YOUR Town Hall continues to thrive for future generations to enjoy. If you have any ideas for future events that you would like to see at the Town Hall - please share them with us. Future Catering at the Town Hall We are thrilled that Best of Bev’s Catering have agreed to continue offering their delicious dining in our Great Hall. Bev and her team are looking to add to their menu and once we are allowed to operate safely they will be offering weekly lunches, additional Sunday lunches and a few other surprises. Bev is also our nominated wedding catering for our Silver, Gold and Platinum Packages (see our website for full wedding packages). Stay well - stay safe. Sandra Crawley, Chair

Local Police News

rime figures for the Torridge Sector over the last 28 days, to 9th February 2021. Burglary dwelling 2 Burglary non-dwelling 3 Violence with injury 17 Violence without injury 49 Robbery 1 Shoplifting 7 Other theft 8 Criminal damage 17 Public order 10 Vehicle offences 3 If you need to contact the police, and it’s not an emergency then follow these simple steps to make sure you get the help you need: 1. Are you wanting to report a breach of Covid 19 restrictions? If you are reporting a breach of restrictions then you can do this using the national reporting form on the Police.uk website - www.police.uk . 2. AskNED – the non-emergency directory. Need to ask a question but not sure who to ask for help, then AskNED dc.police.uk/AskNED 3. Go online – dc.police.uk On the force website you can find the answers to many of the questions people ask when calling the police plus lots of helpful information and advice. 4. Report Crime Online If you need to report a crime or tell the police something, then why not report online using WebChat or the Crime Reporting Form. Alternatively, you can email 101@dc.police.uk. 5. Call 101 Non-emergency number. In an emergency always call 999.

Pet, Home & Garden Supplies

Unit 2 Winkleigh The Old Airfield (Next to Jones’s Cafe)

Now open Tuesday - Saturday 10am-3pm • Closed Sunday & Monday Please phone to check times before travelling due to Covid 19 restrictions Wild Bird Foods • Peanuts • Treats • Fat Balls • Dog Foods • Cat Foods Treats • Litters & Bedding For the Home... Toiletries • Cookware • Bin Liners Cleaning Products • Plastic Ware & Stationery For the Garden... Compost, • Wood Chip • Top Soil • Fence Care Hose Fittings • Plant Foods & Pest Control Paints • DIY • Brushes & Rollers • Coal & Solid Fuel We look forward to seeing you, Stay Safe.

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Great Torrington Commons 365 Supporters Group

e have had a great response from last month’s edition of the Crier, many of the readers have sent in their application forms to us. Torrington Commons 365 Supporters get a membership card that they can use

to maintain, improve and protect the Commons. Hopefully, more and more people will apply to be a 365 Supporter and go shopping in Great Torrington. We have a list of projects planned for the Commons, and to do these we have

to get a discount or other benefit from the 36 different shops and businesses participating in our shop local campaign. Hopefully they will all be open soon as normal, for the members to use their cards. We have had great feedback from the shops that are open to say that the existing 365 Supporters have been using their cards. Please ask instore about their current offer before you start shopping. The aims of the project are to increase the trade in Torrington and raise funds

- that’s an extra 50p added to your £2 donation! You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to you. Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple: Option 1: Cut out or photocopy the application form in the Crier and post it to the address on the form. You can pay by standing order or by sending a cheque for £24. Option 2: visit the website www. torringtoncommons.org and navigate to to raise all of the funds. In the last year the 365 Supporters page where you can we have been able to raise funds to build apply online. Here you have the option two bridges and completely renew the of paying by PayPal or standing order playpark. We have recently raised new annually or monthly. You can print an funds for benches and picnic tables. The application form to post in with a cheque. Conservators are a registered charity. You can collect an application form To make it as easy as possible to join from the Post Office or the Tourist the 365 Supporters we have been able to Information Office. Some of the shops in print an application form in this edition so town also have spare application forms. that you can cut it out and post to me. The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per Andrew Giles, Vice Chair month donation which can be increased Great Torrrington Commons with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer Conservators

Blackberry Farm Shop

* Open 7 days a week, & s�ll producing our home cooked food * Please order in advance & use our fully contactless collec�on or delivery service. * Product range: now includes general groceries, household items, toiletries beer, wines & spirits. * Delivery service now reaches out to those who are isolated or wan�ng to stay at home. For full details & a stock list: Call 01409 261440 • Email: lizzy@lizzyslarder.co.uk or Visit our Facebook page Blackberry Farm Shop Stay Safe everyone. Lizzy’s Larder, Blackberry Farm Shop, Milton Damerel, Holsworthy, EX22 7NP

Participants as of February 8th 2021

AHJ Builders 07977 668164 A Place For Everything @no. 11 in the Pannier Market Castle Hill Garden Cafe Collectability in the High Street Crafty Needles in the Pannier Market Dafforn and Sons New Street Dartington Crystal Duane’s Carvings and Gallery in the Pannier Market Everest Indian Takeaway in South Street Fine Floral Design in South Street Hair We Are in South Street Hogwash Soap Castle Street and online Inside 11a South Street Java Gifts Cornmarket Street Jayne Poole Photography Kitch ‘n’ Cupboard in the Pannier Market Lillian Rose Interiors Well Street No. 37 Café in South Street No. 5 Hair and Beauty in South Street Not Just Travel Gillian Farr Proseprints online and craft fairs R&S Ware Butchers in South Street Samantha Hardwick Lifestyle Coach Second Nature Beauty Studio at No.5 Cornmarket Street Squires Electrical in the High Street Steve Gladwin Family Butchers Fore St Tanya’s Beauty Studio Fore Street The Puffing Billy Torrington Framing Torrington Golf Club Torrington Museum Bookshop, High St Toy Swap in the Pannier Market Unique Boutique Cornmarket Street Whiskers Pet Centre South Street Wildwood and Willow in the High Street Xanadu (in-store discount only) South St

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Village Communities’ Films Capture Cheerful & Caring Response to Lockdown

s we shiver through this tough winter lockdown, a look back at how our amazing communities reacted and supported each other during the first one has been captured in four inspiring village films, which can be seen on the Torrington 100 website and Facebook page. Four Torridge villages took part in a project coordinated by Torrington 100 and funded by Devon County Council, to help record reactions and find a focus to help reunite people and cheer them through the current phase. Village volunteers from Petrockstowe, Monkleigh, Littleham and Taddiport all became film experts, using their phones to capture views of village life, and these were then edited together by two expert documentary makers who live locally. The films feature everything from footage of a vicar taking to the belltower to peel the bell for a 100th birthday, to a magnificent family tribute band, a virtual pub get together, children’s home garden sports days, a poignant poem, scenic walks by the Torridge and comments about the many kindnesses and care offered during lockdown. The original intention was to share them in real events to reunite the villages in the autumn, but that was not to be!

By releasing them now T100 hopes to offer a cheerful picture of how incredibly resilient and supportive our communities are and a reminder that better days are round the corner. You can find the films on the Torrington 100 Facebook page (click on videos) and also on our website www.torrington100. co.uk. Huge thanks to the film makers: Sally

Goodger – Monkleigh; Nixie JamesScott – Taddiport; Andrew Tregoning – Littleham; Jennie Wright and Ann Luxton – Petrockstowe. Also to the dedicated film editors Martin Pailthorpe and Martin Kemp. If you need help accessing the films or want more detail on Torrington 100 call our Community Developer Martin Rawle on 07939 154 436.

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB Families Welcome

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Children’s & Youth Club

n the 4th March 2021 we will celebrate the 14th Birthday of Allsorts Children’s Club. Little did we know at our 13th Birthday celebrations what the next year would bring! After stopping meetings in mid-March, we re-started in early May, via Zoom! We would never have imagined running the clubs in this way, nor did we imagine we would still be meeting in this way 10 months later; but we are and we continue to engage with children and young people in their homes, from ours. We have obviously needed to adapt our approach and the contents of each session, but we are told that the children continue to enjoy the fun and madness which also enables children and young

We are also looking to extend "We would never have imagined activities with family challenges when it is safe and appropriate. running the clubs in this way, nor We have a closed Facebook did we imagine we would still be page through which we keep meeting in this way 10 months in touch with families during later; but we are and we continue the week and of course lots of to engage with children and young prizes! We have started to charge a people in their homes, from ours." fee of £5 per child per term, to help with ongoing costs. This people to see each other and mix safely. also secures a place on our list for when we can return to meeting We are very blessed that many of our together. We are incredibly grateful to helpers have also continued to engage the Town and Lands Trustees who gave and join in. Needless to say, sessions us a grant in the autumn of last year contain the usual madness and fun, which helped us greatly due to reduced while still focusing on a Christian theme income. We are also thankful to Devon each week and it has also been great to County Council and TDC's Cllr Chris welcome family members. One lasting memory from our virtual Christmas Party Bright for contributing grants from the Covid-19 funding pot and the District is of a mum, dad and three children Councillor Grant Scheme respectively. all doing the conga in their front room!

These funds will be used to provide a much needed new laptop for the club! If you have children aged 5-11, or young people 11+ who might be interested in joining us for our live Zoom sessions, please get in touch by calling Morag on 07969 497 026 or Karen on 07890 132081. We meet Friday evenings 7-7.45pm for the children’s club and 8-8.45pm for the youth.

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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.

Coronavirus & Eye Care

t A&J Opticians, we remain committed to providing the very best patient care through this current (and hopefully last) COVID-19 lockdown. In line with Government guidelines, we are currently operating an essential and urgent service only. We are temporarily CLOSED for all routine eye examinations and contact lens aftercare appointments and will be in touch with our patients to recall them when it is deemed safe to do so. We will still be monitoring our emails and manning our telephones so please contact us if you are worried about your eyes, in particular if: * Your vision has suddenly become distorted, blurred or has changed in any way that you are finding distressing or worrying. * You have a painful and/or red eye. * You have been advised to contact us by NHS 111 or another healthcare professional for urgent eye care. * You have broken or lost your glasses and need a repair or replacement in order to function. * You have a problem with your contact lenses. We can then assess how best to meet your needs and may be able to answer your queries by phone or video link. We are operating with reduced staffing levels so you may need to leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can. If you have spectacles or contact lenses on order we will contact you when we have received and checked them. At this point we will either schedule an appointment for you to collect or, if you prefer, we can post them to you. If you have an eye emergency, please contact us first rather than your GP or A&E. We urge all our patients to adhere to the latest guidelines and follow the advice given to STAY AT HOME for all but essential reasons. Once we are able to resume routine eye care, we will contact all our patients who are due or overdue their eye examination. PLEASE DO NOT COME TO THE PRACTICE. Only contact us by email (enquiries@aandjopticians.co.uk) or phone (01805 628271). For more information about contact lens wear during the outbreak, please visit www.bcla.org.uk and for information about eye conditions and eye care during the pandemic, please visit fightforsight.org.uk or lookafteryoureyes.org We hope that you stay well and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.

It’s Never Too Late…

n March 2019, after 25 years working as a welder fabricator, I enrolled on a course in Foot Healthcare Practice with Stonebridge Associated Colleges. I was following a long-held interest in foot care and had previously helped family members with foot care issues. Previous to enrolling on the course, it was just an interest; I never dreamt it would turn into a career. My partner encouraged me to consider following my interest and to pursue a formal qualification. This was the nudge I needed to set me on my way. After doing some research, I identified a gap in the market in Torrington and the surrounding area for footcare specialists, in particular those who could provide a mobile service to deliver foot care in the home. Given North Devon is a rural area with limited public transport, I think mobile services are essential. Since qualifying in January 2020, with distinctions in all modules, I have developed a sound client base, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In July of last year, I was able to take the leap to full selfemployment in my new career. I have

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Rangemoors - Keeping Customers Snug & Warm During Lockdown

no regrets and receiving 5-star reviews from my clients makes it all the more worthwhile and confirms I made the right decision. Many clients now book on a six-week rotation. I am passionate about the importance of good foot health and the impact it can have on people’s lives. People with poor foot health are less likely to engage in physical activity, resulting in a higher risk of disease such as heart disease and diabetes. Being born, bred and having lived in North Devon my whole life, I never envisaged a change of career, let alone selfemployment. I love my new career and the satisfaction of helping people to maintain their foot health. To make an appointment please see accompanying advert.

here’s nothing quite like the warmth and atmosphere a real fire can bring to your home, or preparing a wholesome casserole on a range cooker to help keep the winter months at bay. Based just outside Winkleigh, Rangemoors are Devon’s leading stove and range cooker specialists. With over 45 years of experience, they offer an extensive range of woodburning, multi-fuel, gas and electric stoves. There are both traditional and contemporary models to choose from - all of which comply with the latest environmental standards on efficiency and clean burning. Their comprehensive collection of range cookers includes leading brands like Esse, Rayburn, Falcon, and Rangemaster. All offering a host of innovative cooking options and styling that will suit any home. Rangemoors also offer an installation service, the design and supply of complete flue and chimney systems and a national replacement parts service. At the moment the showroom is closed to visitors because of the lockdown but the Rangemoors team are still working hard supplying customers with the products they need during these difficult times. Visit the Rangemoors website or call 01837 680068 to find out more.

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Recommended Reads

find that one of the plus sides of reading is coming across a story that, although fictionalised, is based on fact and takes us to a part of the country which we have not ever visited before but now intrigues us, and my latest read does just that. A recent novel, written by Nichola Upson and titled ‘Stanley and Elsie’ is a departure from her usual historical detective novels featuring Josephine Tey, and is an interesting story based on the life of the famous World War One artist Stanley Spencer. The First World War is over and in a quiet Hampshire village Stanley is working on the commission of a lifetime, painting an entire chapel in memory of a life lost: combining his own traumatic experiences with the soldiers’ mundane, everyday lives in camp, in hospital and the camaraderie between them. When Elsie arrives to take up the position of housemaid to the Spencer family, her life quickly becomes entwined with that of the charming but feckless Stanley, his wife the equally gifted artist Hilda Carline and their small daughter Shirin. As the years pass, Elsie does her best to keep the family together when love, obsession and temptation seem determined to tear them apart. The family dynamics change when the glamorous Patricia Preece arrives to turn Stanley’s head and heart, even though she lives with her lover the artist Dorothy Hepworth. Stanley continues to paint both women, Patricia and Hilda, with an intimacy that shocked the art world. Spencer had wanted two wives… support from Hilda and the carefree excitement of Patricia, but effectively ended up with none. “The English countryside of a hundred years past comes alive in every flower, every tender unsent letter, every contrary shifting of the human heart behind a closed cottage door” was the comment from the author Stephanie Cowell on this novel, and she is so right. Stanley Spencer’s paintings can be seen online at www.stanleyspencer.org.uk from his gallery at Cookham in Berkshire. The chapel that he painted was given to the National Trust and is called Sandham Memorial Chapel. This wonderful book can be borrowed from our library. Bookworm

Keeping Up Appearances

I’m cleaning the house, There’s a ring at the door, So I daintily lay down my mop And I sling on my bling A glamorous necklace and ring For one mustn’t let one’s standards drop. I’m slouched on the sofa, My hair’s in a mess, When I realise I must nip to the shop, So I sling on my bling A glamorous necklace and ring For one mustn’t let one’s standards drop. I’m taking the dog for a walk In my wellies and mask, I look a fright, so I don’t want to stop, But I did sling on my bling A glamorous necklace and ring For one mustn’t let one’s standards drop. Today I put out the bin In my Marigold gloves, But as I open the front door I stop, I must sling on my bling A glamorous necklace and ring For one mustn’t let one’s standards drop Stef Easton

News From Your Library

t is with very great sadness that we mourn the loss of Christine Porter, the Chair of our Friends of Great Torrington Library group. Chris was a great advocate for our town library, putting words into actions to support and better our offer to the community. She leaves a large void. We send Colin and family our sincere condolences. During Lockdown #3 library staff continue to work, for the most part, at home. Going to press, appointments are available for the limited Life-Line service we are offering, but please email or phone (on Tuesday or Saturday mornings) if you need us. Follow our Facebook page #TorringtonLibraryDevon for information of our online services and regular updates and activities run by us and other libraries. It also offers the popular Book Chat group, so why not check it out. Join the Digital Library You can join the library online by visiting Devonlibraries.org.uk. Once you have completed the online joining form, you will be given a temporary library card number, which will enable you to access our digital library immediately. As and when our libraries re-open, we will process all temporary memberships registered during the closure period and we will issue a library card to you. If you already have a library card but require the PIN for your account, you can click on the 'Forgot PIN' option to get a PIN reset sent to your registered email address.

Access our Digital Library - www. devon.libraries.org.uk We have a huge selection of titles available for you to borrow in our Digital Library and new titles are being added every week. * Download and stream free eBooks, eAudioBooks and eMagazines on your tablet, smartphone or home PC. * Access the ‘Reading Well’ collections on our digital platform * Visit our Online Reference resources www.devonlibraries.org.uk/web/arena/ referenceonline * Access to Ancestry Library Edition has been temporarily extended to Devon Library members at home, courtesy of ProQuest and its partner Ancestry * Devon libraries are creating fun online content and live streaming cultural events. Check out individual library Facebook pages for more information For assistance with any queries please contact us by emailing torrington. library@librariesunlimited.org.uk or our general telephone enquiries line is 0345 155001. Census 2021 Local library staff will be offering support to complete the Census 2021. If you need computer access or an advisor to help, please call the library direct to make an appointment. This service will be delivered in a Covid secure way to keep staff and public safe so booking is essential. Please note appointment availability as follows: Tuesday - Bideford Library 01237 476075 Wednesday - Northam Library 01237

475111 Thursday morning - Appledore Library 01237 477442 Thursday - Torrington Library 01805 622107 Friday - Bideford Library 01237 476075 Saturday morning - Northam Library 01237 475111 Keep safe everyone and keep an eye on our Facebook page or Devon Libraries website for updates. Kate G, Kate C, Becky & Michelle torrington.library@librariesunlimited.org. uk, 01805 622107 Your local library in Devon is managed by Libraries Unlimited, the charity responsible for running Devon and Torbay Libraries.

World Day of Prayer 2021

his year’s service will be on Friday 5th March when we will be following material prepared by the women of Vanuatu, an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean on the theme ‘Build on a Strong Foundation’. The service will be at St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington at 10.30am. All are welcome. Please join us as we become part of a worldwide prayer movement reaching 170 global countries and learn more about Vanuatu.

Master Care

‘Professional carpet & upholstery cleaner’ Carpet, Upholstery, Leather & Rug Cleaning Pet Urine Odour Removal Treatment & Sanitisation Contact Colin on 07555 858 094 Email: colin.chemdry1@gmail.com Visit: www.chemdrymastercare.co.uk ‘A local company independently owned and operated’

Commons News

ovely things to go and see on the Commons at the moment are the little wild daffodils that grow at the top of Castle Hill and down by the river. The primroses are also all out and the unmistakable smell of wild garlic is in the air. Hazel catkins or lambs’ tails are waving in the wind and, if you look closely, you might spot the tiny, red female flowers too. There are wild anemones or wind flowers out on Lady’s Island – really a beautiful time of year. Last month the team were busy taking down a number of ash trees which had succumbed to ash die back disease. Unfortunately, it’s not only humans who suffer from pandemics. We are keeping a close eye on them and hoping we have a good number of resistant trees as well. It is lovely to see the new playpark being used. We now need to raise even more funds to pay for the extra insurance on it and also the CCTV we have to keep it safe. So please keep supporting us via the 365 Supporters’ Club or any way you can. The Great Torrington Commons Conservators is an elected board of trustees and elections are due to take place in May, so if you would like to join this band of enthusiastic and sociable people please get in touch. If you would like to get involved in helping out with the Commons in any other capacity, or see anything you would like to report (good or bad) please contact clerk.conservators@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Torrington Commons. Mandy Harrison, Chair GTCC

Fishery Warden’s Report Feb 2021 Pollution Unfortunately, in Torrington, we have inherited some ancient sewage and drainage systems called CSOs (Combined Sewage Overflows) where sewage and rainwater runoff systems are combined. These are being updated gradually by South West Water and eventually will be separated. Occasionally some white discolouration occurs at Ladywash and this has been noticed again recently. Of late, no serious toxic run-off has been experienced. However, these discharges do end up in our River Torridge which we are fighting hard to improve. So please, can you all help us? Some people may have been a little careless when washing out paint cans or possibly the remains of garden chemicals etc. Please do not empty these into the main drains. There are facilities for disposal at the local tip. The 2021 Trout and Salmon Season opens on the River Torridge on the first day of March. It ends on 30th September. As usual, all anglers must have the appropriate Environment Agency rod licence. I remind all those wishing to fish Great Torrington Commons Conservators’ waters that only those who are on the

Great Torrington Electoral Roll are entitled to fish our waters. Dependents aged under 18 are also permitted to fish, providing they are living at the same address. Those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent for health and safety reasons. Those not entitled to be fishing our waters are committing an offence under the Theft Act of 1968. Methods allowed are: spinning or fly-fishing during March and fly only from April to the end of September. The laws are on your licence. The Torridge Fisheries Association normally releases 30,000 or so salmon fry into the Torridge each year, but flood waters have prevented them from operating the hatchery this year. Fortunately, by cooperating with the South West Fisheries Association and the Environment Agency, there may be a solution in the near future from the Colliford Hatchery on the River Fowey. They may get a supply of stock to release into our River. I will research this and keep you informed. The Torridge remains in flood at the moment but as soon as the water subsides a little and clears of sediment, the fishing will be worthwhile. Alan Crawley, Fishery Warden GTCC Please contact Alan at fishing. conservators@gmail.com if you have any queries about fishing on the Commons.

Notable Buildings in Torrington Part Five umber 50 South Street, known as Windy Cross House, is a large four-storey house which dates from the 1820s. It is situated where South Street, Mill Street and Halsdon Terrace meet and was built by the same property developer, Mr Charles William Johnson, who built number 42 South Street (and was an ancestor of the late Sue Scrutton, a local historian).

"On the front of the house are the original sash windows, with the very unusual feature of an acorn under each side of the upper part of the windows. Does this denote that they were made by someone called Oke?" On the front of the house are the original sash windows, with the very unusual feature of an acorn under each side of the upper part of the windows. Does this denote that they were made by someone called Oke? From the back of the house there are lovely views across the Torridge valley. The house may have been built as a boarding house, as there are fireplaces in many of the rooms and it would seem to be a house that needed plenty of domestic staff to run it. There used to be a dumb waiter which came up from the basement, where there was a larder with meat hooks and slate shelves, and passed through a corner of the kitchen up to the first floor. The garage probably dates from around 1750 and, with its thick cob walls,

fireplace and steps to the upper floor, may originally have been a dwelling. It has also been suggested that it was once the stables to Furse House (probably when numbers 42 and 44 were one house). A room at the farthest end wasn't opened up for some ten to fifteen years during the tenure of the present owners until it was converted into a pottery. In February 1904 the house was sold by a Major William Thomas Furse (who lived in Salisbury) to a Mrs E. F. Medland, and in July 1922 it was sold to Dr V. Blacker Kyle. The room to the right of the front door could well have been a doctor's consulting room. There is a door with a knocker on it immediately inside the front door which would have enabled patients to enter the room, without going through the inner door into the main house, and there is a washbasin in this room. In a photo of the house in the Beaford Archive there appears to be a plaque to the left of the front door which might be a doctor's

name-plate. In 1926 Dr Kyle sold the house to a Mr Arthur Bailey Pugh, 'Physician and Surgeon of 28 Barons Court, West Kensington,' for £1,200 with stamp duty of £12. It is not known if he actually lived in the house and only two years later he sold it to Arthur Henry Heaman and his wife, Alice Mary. They sold it to Donald and Jane Oliver in 1965, one of whose sons kept pythons! At one time the house was divided into flats and a local couple started their married life in the 1960s in the basement flat, which has its own entrance. In 1985 Clive and Patricia Richards (a furniture decorator) bought the house, and they sold it to the present owners in 1989. Moira Brewer

Every Wednesday morning & evening 1646 Community Hall, South Street Appointment only Call/Text Lisa on 07515 256 965 13

Lockdown Blues? Meditation Could Help

earning a suite of non-secular, simple, and very powerful meditation practices at your own convenience online, could help to beat the winter lockdown blues. For many years, peer reviewed scientific research has demonstrated the benefits of meditation training in terms of improved mental wellbeing and physical health. Our 6-week online course is based on the gold standard, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme, which explicitly addresses the negative thought patterns that can perpetuate stress and lead to anxiety and depression. However, the benefits of the course are not confined to these areas. Research shows that mindfulness meditation can help us sleep better, reduce rumination (that endless internal chatter), increase focus and boost working memory. It can also decrease emotional reactivity and increases cognitive flexibility, allowing us to become more responsive to changes in our lives. Throughout the course we will explore the core mindfulness meditation practices and cultivate new skilful ways of dealing with what goes on in our bodies, minds and daily lives. I am a trained MBSR teacher with over 30 years of meditation practice, and I am committed to helping individuals find a gentle and compassionate pathway to negotiate the stresses, anxieties and expectations of this particularly challenging phase of our twenty first century life. Please visit www.gentlemind.uk for more information; read reviews from previous participants and complete a no-obligation application form. Alternatively, you can email me, James Murray at info@gentlemind.uk or phone me directly on 01769 302007 or 07866 545978.

Great Torrington Community Development Trust

Looking for Something to Do?

When we come out of lockdown, we shall need one or two volunteers to help us with basic repairs and maintenance around our community gardens at Castle Hill. If you can spare a couple of hours a week on a flexible basis, we would be pleased to hear from you. For further information, please contact Phil on 01805 628 219 or email philtop@hotmail.co.uk.

Torrington RFC

t is always quite annoying that as soon as I have posted copy for the next edition of The Crier, a fairly relevant piece of information arrives in my in box! On this occasion it was notification from South West RFU that the 20202021 season has been cancelled due to Covid19. This doesn’t mean we are prevented from playing any games. As and when we have permission from the Government and RFU to start playing, we can hopefully get some friendlies inked into our schedule. Fingers crossed! Otherwise there is very little else to report this time around. However, we are in the process of submitting a planning application to extend our facilities. The first phase of the plan is to build an extension to our existing clubhouse to add two new changing rooms to give us four in total. This is primarily due to the ever increasing numbers of junior players joining the club, boys and girls, and to create a bigger hospitality space (phase 2) for community use. This is an exciting and large step forward for the club, looking to the future in a positive way. The 6 Nations tournament should be drawing to a close by the time this reaches you, in which England sadly made a very poor start. We can only look forward to things improving! Respect, Discipline, Enjoyment, Sportsmanship and Teamwork. C’mon Torrie! Mark Waterson

Property Marketplace Musings

s the first signs of spring are unfolding, with daffodils opening up their brightly coloured heads, many Camellias beginning to blossom and the hope that the vaccination programme brings, are we entering a more positive phase than we have seen for almost a year since the first lockdown? Only time will tell, but all the property market is showing upbeat signs that there is going to be a brisk early start to the year, building on what the first two months produced. Certainly the guidance rules that we, as agents, have to work under and the ones we have put in place to protect not only our colleagues, but those who want to move, has changed the way the industry works. Be prepared for more searching questions about the reasons behind your ability to purchase/ rent, to give assurance to both vendors and landlords that the viewing is not just an excuse to break lockdown. Viewing numbers may be less, but the quality of those looking has increased and, as a result, there is a lot more motivation in the property market than has been seen for some time. Yes the ‘elephant in the room’ and the most frequently asked question is, will the Stamp Duty holiday finish at the end of the March? On 21st January the HMRC property transactions estimate headline, with seasonally adjusted figures, gave an indication that UK property transactions in December 2020 were 129,400, some 32% higher than last year. Certainly the house builders have been enjoying a boom in construction and the spin off from home moves and rentals goes far

and wide into the overall economy, as online shopping allows for people to furnish their next home and upgrade items, all from their sofas, and have it delivered at a time to suit. It is estimated there are in excess of 450,000 transactions aiming to complete before the deadline. If the Stamp Duty was to end with immediate effect on the 31st of March it could mean a realignment in property prices in some parts of the UK, but I do believe the wider South West will still hold up well as the demand for UK based holidays has soared. This, alongside many home buyers and renters now looking to rebalance their life/work time, as mentioned in my February article in the Crier. We at Webbers hope to see a phasing out of the Stamp Duty holiday over the coming months The online petition that we as agents signed to request a further six months obtained 144,295 signatures, which meant Parliament had to debate it and this happened virtually on 1st February with MPs from across the house. A lively 65-minute session resulted in Jesse Norman MP, financial secretary to the Treasury, responding to the debate on behalf of the government saying it was not appropriate in this debate to “comment on tax policy outside a fiscal event”. We will now have to wait for the Chancellor’s Budget on 3rd March to know more. Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

Little Torrington WI

e were all shattered by the news of Chris Porter’s sudden death. We had all benefited by her warm upbeat take on life, she will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to her family. Ironically the subject of our February meeting had been requested by Chris: to know more about the night sky. Rick Dooley of the Barnstaple Astronomical Society gave a very informative presentation including animated sequences showing the movement of the planets round the sun. Before the meeting was out, three members had already downloaded a free app onto their phones. If you see women out late at night gazing upwards, they are probably members of Little Torrington WI. Should you wish to join us you can always drop in on a Zoom meeting and look at our Facebook page. During any given month we also have book club, craft get-together, coffee morning and plans are afoot for a wine evening. So do contact our secretary Linda on 01805 603442. Sally Ramsden

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GREAT TORRINGTON T From Your Mayor…

s I write this, we are still in a national lockdown and I hope you are all keeping well. I am aware that times have continued to be difficult, but know that people are helping each other across the community. Please don’t forget to reach out for help if you need it. January seemed to last a long time but we are hopeful that once we get to March, we will see the coming of spring. Let’s hope that brings us all a little bit of joy and sunshine I have not been as busy as I would like recently, as all events I would be usually attending are cancelled, however, I have enjoyed doing various interviews over the last few weeks. I was pleased to be able to talk to Devon Live about my time as Mayor and about being a young mayor and Town Councillor. As much as I enjoy talking about my role, I always take these chances to talk about how great, Great Torrington is! I can’t wait until a time when we can safely invite visitors so that they can see for themselves all the lovely things we have to offer! As an offshoot of this interview, I was contacted by Kevin Wadland from Plymouth Hospital Radio to record

something for the hospital radio station. This was something very different for me but very exciting, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The interview will be put out on a Saturday morning at Derriford Hospital and will also be available to listen to on SoundCloud. Whilst we are not organising our usual annual events at the Town Council over the next few months, we are still very much, ‘business as normal’ and are working on some exciting projects: one being our new Marketing Working

shopping experience. We are actively working on various maps, which include a history trail, organised by the Futures Group, Civil War trail and a map of the town centre of Great Torrington setting out the various shops and businesses. I want to thank everyone who has joined this group. These relatively quieter times have given us a chance to prepare for the future of the town. Another longer-term project is a History Alive Weekend, being headed up by John Wardman, Dave Gibbons and Peter Hood in conjunction with the Marketing "Whilst we are not organising our Group. The sub-group have been usual annual events at the Town working extremely hard on this idea and Council over the next few months, the committee were delighted to hear an we are still very much, ‘business as update last month; more information is normal’ and are working on some included in a separate article this month. I hope, by the time this article reaches exciting projects: one being our you all, that we will see ourselves in a new Marketing Working group. different position. The vaccines are being Great Torrington has so much to rolled out and I want to thank everyone in offer and we are looking to ensure our community who has played their part. we celebrate it and publicise for As always, please do not hesitate to get in contact with me if you need locals and visitors." anything. group. Great Torrington has so much Cllr Keeley Allin to offer and we are looking to ensure Mayor of Great Torrington we celebrate it and publicise for locals 07783 711 500 and visitors. We are focussing on cllr.allin@great-torringtontowncouncil. the heritage, environmental, cultural gov.uk aspects alongside the independent small

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Your Council, Working for YOU

Great Torrington Town Council: Motions

embers have fully supported two different Motions brought to two Council meetings over the past couple of months. In December 2020 Members agreed the need to develop the Creamery and for the property to be demolished and/or remaining buildings made completely secure. Also for Torridge District Council to use its powers to ensure these measures are enforced so that buildings are made secure and access to roofs removed. Members also requested that Torridge District Council works with relevant agents to establish a solution to safely demolish any buildings with asbestos. In January 2021 Members agreed to fully support the local campaign mounted by Plastic Free Torridge, Plastic Free North Devon and Keep Britain Tidy’s Ocean Recovery Project, which recognise the adverse effect on the natural environment of cheap discarded polystyrene bodyboards and their request for retailers to remove these boards from sale.

Town Council Award

ach year the Town Council gives an award to the person or persons whom it feels has provided local public service of the highest order. Such service can be of many years’ duration or something extraordinary that was for a short time. The essence is that the time given is voluntary and the people benefiting are within the parish of Great Torrington. The Town Council therefore invites you to submit nominations for consideration. Nominations should be accompanied by a written explanation as to why you believe the person or persons should be considered, what they have done, how long for and who has benefited. Please limit explanations to no more than one side of A4 paper. Please send your nominations to the Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA or by email to admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk, to be received no later than Thursday 18th March 2021. Karen Chapman (Town Clerk)

Annual Town Meeting Thursday 15th April 2021

otice is hereby given that Great Torrington Annual Parish Meeting will be held via video conference on Thursday 15th April 2021 at 7pm. The Mayor of Great Torrington will submit a report on the Town Council’s activities during 2020/21. Consideration will be given to any matters raised by Registered Electors who reside within the parish of Great Torrington. We would be very pleased to see members of the community at this meeting and would value your thoughts regarding priorities for the Council going forward. For video conference at 12 noon. Karen Chapman (Town Clerk)

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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

Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am Rolle NEWS Canal & Northern GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken

depending on the season, Saturday 13th

flowering at thewith timeGeoffre of the Advice Surgery Waterways Society Guided Walk The start of the Morgan for an appointment ring walk 01237 The new season's programme e know we live in a historic of the First and SecondThe World Wars Church ofon Jesus Christ of Latter of Kiln,to on the Weare Giffa email tellgeoffrey@geoffrey Sunday afternoon walks starts on 26th Day Saints meet @ Bideford College town when our ‘New’ Street the town. Halfpenny Bridge, at website www.geoffreycox.co.u May with visit to EX39 the site Abbotsham Rd,aBideford, 3AR of the Coffee Morning in aidThe of Wem dis Sunday 26th May. was built in the 12th century, As a town, over the years, we have Inclined Plane at Ridd. This is the Church Sacrament Chulmleigh Town over a@mile but with plenH but how much do we really know about showcased our history:Sunday the Cavaliers re- service at 11.50amplace where the Rolle Canal 1pm cakes,and produce, draw is prizes a discuss likely our town’s history and the lives of enacted the explosion of Great Torrington was raised up(12A) about3pm 43 feet Film 'Hitchcock' @ The Major Walker MCofCeremony couple hours. A the people who lived here before us? church in 1646 at one of their famous from the valley floor near Plough Memorial 11am £2 (see to article) the R Wouldn’t it be something if the past could bonfires; the informativeFilm work done by7pm Valley Railway News Weare Giffard to a level 'Argo' (15) @Tarka The Plough Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30p Society's fund come to life? the Rolle Canal and Tarka Railway e are nowDoug back01805 in lockdown Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall inValley the side of the valley 622648 or Beryl 0a appreciated That’s the whole idea of ‘History Alive’. groups; the role of the old Torrington but, before the latest 8pm that could be maintained 624294 enable the Soc The event will be part of a national 1646 centre and the workallof the the local announcement earlyExpectations' last way inland to the Film 'Great 7.30 volunteer work heritage weekend 10th-11th September history society. Plus, theMonday local month, a small amount ofBickington work wasCinema High head history weir 8th at Rosemoor. promote and maintai Historical AGM & Talks 'Beam Music Coope Boyes & Simpso 2022. Alongside the Town Council’s work done in our schools, and bySociety the Many people willdone; have seen mainly involving siteRolle tidying and Future the Canal. wa House & Quay' & John tree Oatway Plough this on previous walks but thisfollowing year The th th Commons Conservators, the site Plough and removal storm damage. June, 28 J will be 16 "We could portray anything from Torrington Clockmaker 7 for plan 7.30pm @over there been developments its musicians and players, local have historical The is to level thisAugust. area followed For further details Great Torrington’s role in making the authors and the Taddiport Methodist Church Sunday 14th the winter that will make it well worth awhen Lepers. The by much planting we arehassallc@ymail.co allowed email: Film 'Wreckvisit. it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The Torrington Methodist Churc nation’s favourite tinned rice pudding May Fair and Carnival is repeat The Heritage Lottery a yearly witness back. 01237 you'llMp Plough Rev Peter425357, Whattonbut 6.30pm and fashionable gloves, through to fundedand ‘Life's Journey’ project to the creativity of local Film groups One positive has note is that we seem to to leave a message. 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough Sheriff produced a new pathway from the transport innovations of the canal groups of friends. for athe lifting the current C Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pmbe@heading The Plough St.ofMichael’s Church 10am S Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the and railway. " Let’s bring it all together on a weekend rules sometime in March. This will Club in upper Ignatius Sunday Inclined Plane where two illustrated in 2022, with talks, demonstrations, hopefully coincide with better weather Tuesday 9th Film 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm Our Hedgehogs Need Yo information boards have been installed FilmStarting 'Lincoln' the (12A) 5pmas@inThe The Hedgehog Plough newly formed Marketing Working Group, guides, re-enactments etc. anyPlough event, January was certainly Awareness W to describe the saltmarsh habitat by Filmtime 'Hitchcock' (12A) 8pm @month The to encourage and using the inspiration of other local planning now gives us the we need not a outdoor way but why wait until th the Torridge and the workings and Plough Monday groups in our town and groups of friends to formulate ideas and by autumn of this working. help? As 15th spring is here purpose the Rolle Canal. It is now Singing for Fun 7.30-8.30pm and individuals, we aim to recreate some year we could be ready topossible go to press andof hopefully the weathe Behind thebetter scenes but particular to gain a far Bickington improves our spikyCentre friend of the events that have shaped our town for inclusion in national Wednesday and regional 10th importance, a small team madeCommunity understanding of the lay-out and St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Mini Mover Dance Session will be up and about agaf and the nation’s history. We could portray tourist publicity literature. We really want arrangements for a virtual meeting with the inclined plane boat lift 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington in workings St James of Chapel C It’s been an tou anything from Great Torrington’s role in to involve as many localTorrington people and Devon County Council to assist us extremely in than was theHall case. W.Ipreviously @ Methodist 7pm The Centre winter for them. T making the nation’s favourite tinned rice community groups as possible, so as developing funding upper basin of 8pm the canal theatop of strategy, lease Film 'I Wish' (PG) @ TheatPlough

History Alive

changeable and wet wea to learn more and get involved, please extension discussion and agreeing the incline has been cleared of scrub Tuesday 16th has made it difficult for ma sufficiently to enable the outline of its contact one of us. to comply Thursday 11th a format for our accounts 'Hearing for You' Social grou them to HMRC find food or hibern banks to be clearly seen, and the way Town Council: admin@greatwith Charity Commission and hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tue St Michael's Church Said Mass over the past months so m the 01805 railway subsequently cut through Thehelp Bickford 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk requirements. This will us inCentre our call 0127 weak and need help. If yo the northern destroying the top of Youth Club High Bickington C Walsingham cellend, in vicarage 626135 future planning. you had a resident hedge Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm @ The the incline. This canal basin now Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pm John Wardman: johnwardman@hotmail. Even though our activities have been area last year pleaseJuniors don’t Club Plough supports an increasing population of Badminton com 01805 622622 suspended, our Facebook page has 7pm a bowl of water and some Adults @ Bickington Commun Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Early Purple Orchid news, and Twayblade (ainformation and is Dave Gibbons: photos and them, placing it inside a fe pairs competition @ Beast 2pm @ The Ploughorchid) green flowered which, Cribbage dclaytongibbons@gmail.com well @ worth Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm The a browse. Arms 8pm Peter Hood: hoodp@hoodp.plus.net Rob Martin Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ Plough note early start for long film 01805 622433 Tarka Valley Railway Plough note early start for long CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Wednesday Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist 17th ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon St Michael's Church Said Ma MINIBUS SERVICES today pleaseWorks  Damp Surveys & Remedial ee James Chapel inFrSt

pudding and fashionable gloves, through to the transport innovations of the canal and railway. The town has been no stranger to conflict. There have been conflicts over Great Torrington cemetery, the fencingin of common land, with the lepers, the destruction of two castles, and national conflict between Cavaliers and Roundheads that was fought out on our streets in 1646. More recently the impact

TORRIDGE COMMUNITY

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Hickfords Property Services

 Woodworm & Rot Treatments Friday  Kitchen 12th & Bathroom Design & Fitting StMichael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Property Maintenance in St James Chapel  Extensions Theatre Scottish Falsetto Puppet  Landscaping Decking Theatre 7pm @&The Plough

estim friendly ad ates & Short Tennis vice HNC @ High Bicking , NVQ and Institu Centre 4.30-5.30p WCommunity ood Prese te of rv in g & Legion 3rd We Royal British Damp -Pro ofing month @ GT Conservativ qualifi7pm ed

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Fleur’s Gardening Forum Nursery Beds

ardeners generally understand that we need to become more aware of how we treat the environment, especially regarding the use of peat based composts. For hardy annuals, biennials and perennials, the creation of a nursery bed in your garden is the practical way of cutting back on compost use. To create such a bed, you need to select an area of the garden that is sheltered, sunny and preferably well-drained. Firstly, dig over the area lightly (you don’t need to double-dig), removing all weeds and add sharp sand if necessary to aid drainage. Rake over the bed carefully, then leave for a week or so to allow any weed seeds exposed by digging to germinate. Remove these weeds, then rake until you have achieved a fine tilth, ie, the soil is well broken up with only very small stones present. Firm the soil lightly to remove air pockets, by patting with the back of a spade, then rake again. You are now ready for sowing seeds. Seeds that are ideal for sowing in a nursery bed are hardy annuals, biennials and perennials, such as brassicas, alliums, marigolds, cornflowers, wallflowers, foxgloves and Sweet William (to name only a few). Make a shallow, straight drill in the soil and, if the weather is dry, water the drill before sowing the seed thinly and covering with soil. Mark

Who are Airband?

and label each row before you start the next! Cover the area with fine netting to keep off animals and birds. Once the seedlings have germinated, water well and guard against slugs and snails. As the seedlings grow, thin out the weaker plants and continue watering when required. Once the plants are growing away strongly, dig them up carefully and transplant into their final growing position. Water really well to settle them in. For seeds such as carrots, parsnips, beetroot, these do not transplant easily but you should use the same soil preparation technique before sowing direct and, of course, protect them from predators! For half-hardy annuals, these do need to be sown under cover, so create your own compost by mixing together sharp sand and your own, home grown, very well-rotted compost or leaf mould. Sieve the compost and, if possible, sterilise it by ‘cooking’ it in the oven (as my mother used to do!) or treat yourself to a sterilising unit – they are well worth it. Once the sterilised compost has cooled thoroughly, you should use a mixture of 1 part compost to 2 parts sharp sand (you can, of course, buy a bag of peat-free compost and, to make it go further, use the same one-third to two-thirds mixture). Sow your half-hardy seeds as usual. Fleur

s some of you may be aware, Airband is the company that won the contract for your area in the ‘Connecting Devon and Somerset’ rollout. This means that we have been chosen to work with local councils and area residents to bring the option of ultrafast Fibre to the Premise (FTTP) in Great Torrington. Airband started life as a family run business founded in Worcester in the West Midlands, but we have now expanded our service to large areas of the west of England and Wales. We now have a Devon team and office, focused on the build project in the county. We focus on bringing high speed broadband to people and communities who have not previously had access to these services. At first, we did this through a fixed wireless network, which involves broadband being transmitted from radios. However, we now focus on using fibre for the higher possible speeds and more reliable connection. We understand that building new infrastructure in communities like Great Torrington can be disruptive, but we will keep you in the loop. We will be in touch ahead of time with letters to residents explaining our plans for any proposed works or traffic management. Finally, we believe that dialogue should go both ways. If you have any questions about who Airband are, what we do, or our plans for Great Torrington, you can get in touch by calling Tony Watkins on 07496 179465 or email tony.watkins@airband.co.uk.

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Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he

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From Your County of themCouncillor… too but it would far exceed my

nce again, County Council will be rolling out quota of words. call for emergencies I would likeIf you want to see pictures more community testing sites ofrapid our last to start by plans are afoot to have a mobile show or a list of previousand productions, thanking everyonevisit www.torringtonplayers.com testing site to service Torrington and on Players for the part you are the surrounding rural communities. month! 'Hobson's playingyour in keeping Torrington In Bloom Community testing is for people who do aven't all booked our communities not 2011 have any symptoms and are aimed he dates, time, price Silver-Gilt Winners safe and overcoming at key workers mber are all on the Torrington in Bloom is delighted with who cannot stay at home. the coronavirus. These tests are designed to help pick up ont cover, or pop the above result and would not have thanks to o theIt is Plough in the been able to achieve asymptomatic infections. At the time of writing the Council is erson. magnificent effortsit of without the help and he castourhas been communities that our areaofhas one support localof targeting areas where there have been orking the hard under lowest infection rates in groups the country. traders, and higher rates of the virus, so the first sites e direction oftime Frank At the of writing (10th February), individuals, we would in Torridge and North Devon are likely to lman, toCovid bringcases you ain Torrington Rural are like to thank you all. be in Barnstaple and Bideford. However, emorable evening A ‘suppressed’ list of sponsors and I have been assured by the Director of officially classed as as there acked with laughter. supporters is available Public Health in Devon that testing sites have been fewer than three recorded enry infections Hobson inisthe seven on the noticeboard days prior to theat will become available for Torrington pleby, who t h e e n t r a n c e t o t hand e the c o surrounding uncil 5th alongside February. rural communities, finds time write rate offices/1646. Thetoinfection per 100,000 people and that should we have any flare up of es on our website Britain definition of will move testing sites to in Torridge was just This 22 onisthe 10thin Bloom’s infections they on's eldest daughter what constitutes silver-gilt level: February – the lowest in the UK bar the the area to help contain any community sible one, is Sara ‘Very Good’ (75-84% mark) – a high Orkney and Shetland Islands! Devon’s outbreaks. r, 'bumptious' sisters standard entry, which meets virtually at 59.2, is also To book a test, type devon.cc/testing and Jooverall Wood.infection Neil rate, all of the judging criteria and includes the lowest upper-tier local authority in into your web browser and it will take you as Willie Mossop, sections of exceptionally high and is well below our County to the booking site. Please remember Moore, England plays Albert, standards. Exemplifies best practice in neighbours in Cornwall, Somerset anddemonstrates though, if very you have any Covid symptoms ckie. Joyce Ridgwell multiple areas and Dorset. do not book h and this will be her h i g h p o t e n t i a l f o r c o n t i n u i nag community test but use in Devon has the national ith TP. The vaccine rollout development and sustainable effort. testing system - www.gov.uk/ alsobut beenvery successful so far, with over get-coronavirus-test. members, The judges’ comments were positive 200,000Colin people receiving first too: ‘Torrington While the vaccination rollout has, so ny Bedinetz, in manytheir areas, in dose. Bloom DCC and Officials far, gone Puttick vaccination and Esther hasNHS learned a lot during thewell, last and our infection rates are ng Richard Pitt,confident who remain that will meet ourthe potential low, please yearwe and you have to bedo a remember to follow the g very vaccination Welsh in 'A targets for the top fourentry. 1646 guidelines – hands, face, space – and very strong centre in Wales' to agroups very by improves clinical mid-February. welland don’t let your guard down. Thank you eachAs year is a valuable lane. as the vaccine centres assetin to the town. Dartington’s Barnstaple and again for all your efforts in defeating ere could not be a (Crystal) a virus. valuable Holsworthy, Torrington’s GP grounds Surgeries werethis We must keep our infection the unsung heroes addition to thelocally, route. Therates flowerbed are now administering vaccines low soat that we can start to return I wish with I could list all S&G is a holding vast improvement. The Castle Gardens surgery to normality again in the spring and their first vaccine clinics in January. summer. Alongside this, during March, Devon Although the pandemic continues

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to dominate my work and the County Council’s business, normal day to day work does continue. The major work in February has been scrutinising the forthcoming County Council budget. Exact details at the time of writing remain ‘TBC’, however I’m pleased to report there will be more investment into Adults and Children’s Social Services. Highways matters are also on my priority list at the moment, and the inclement weather over January and February has meant we have seen an increase in potholes and flooding incidents. While I have not been travelling as much due to lockdown, I am continuing to report pothole and drainage issues that I see, or am made aware of, having recently reported incidents in Langtree, Little Torrington, High Bickington, Ashreigney, Winkleigh and in Torrington itself. Please do continue to report highway defects online – devon.cc/report-it – however if there is an incident that needs immediate attention please ring Highways on 0345 155 1004 so that it can be responded to as quickly as possible. As ever, if there is any County Council matter you would like me to look into you can now contact me on Facebook facebook.com/cllrsaywell, as well as ringing 07886 446560 or emailing andrew.saywell@devon.gov.uk.

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From Your District Councillors…

ince the last Crier report we have both had a lot of requests for councillor grant funding and have nearly granted it all for this financial year, but we are so glad it can be put to good use! Most recently we have both granted money to the Commons Conservators towards picnic benches at their amazing new play area on the Old Bowling Green, as well as funding for assemblies and workshops for both Great Torrington’s Secondary and Junior Schools, from the Youth Mental Health Foundation; we feel this is so important and is needed now more than ever with the current Covid situation and numerous lockdowns we have had to endure. We had an informal virtual members’ workshop in mid-January, where councillors answered questions via an anonymous poll. Not all of the councillors were present but the results steered towards wanting no reduction in services but an increase in parking fees and green waste collection; however the budget will be formally decided at the end of February at the Full Council’s ‘budget special’. Cllr Cottle-Hunkin sits on TDC’s External Overview and Scrutiny committee. We had a really interesting meeting with three organisations last month- TTVS, CAB and Encompass who all informed us of their response to the covid pandemic. They are doing fantastic work helping those who need it the most, and the meeting can be viewed on the TDC YouTube channel if anyone is

interested in finding out more. We invited Sir Geoffrey Cox to our March meeting to discuss the impact of Brexit on our community in Torridge, particularly fisheries and agriculture. Unfortunately he declined our invitation stating that he would be willing to answer any questions we have for him via email, which we will now prepare. We are hearing from Westward Housing at our next meeting on 10th March, so please let me know if you have any questions you’d like me to ask. I have had a few complaints over the years from local residents and I know Westward has a large number of properties in Great Torrington so I would like to get as much information for you as possible. At our last Full Council meeting we voted to put forward recommendations from TDC’s Climate Emergency

Working Group in response to DCC’s interim carbon plan. This included recommending the need for DCC’s netzero carbon aim of 2050 to be brought forward; the need to prioritise enhanced digital connectivity across all of our communities; a stronger commitment to active travel and developing cycling routes; and to explore energy generation opportunities utilising tidal flows on the Taw and Torridge rivers. As always, please get in touch if you have any issues and we will do our best to help. Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin Cllr.cottle-hunkin@torridge.gov.uk; 07495 367 801 Cllr Chris Bright Councillor.bright@torridge.gov.uk; 07936 325 909

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Free Training & Business Advice for Retailers

igital skills training provider, Cosmic, is offering a package of free training and business advice to retailers in Devon and Somerset throughout March. With the high street and retailers so dramatically impacted by lockdowns and restrictions, Cosmic want to support businesses looking to adapt to the circumstances and wanting to improve their sales opportunities. They are offering a series of training workshops over the next few weeks, and inviting all attendees to also receive a 1-to-1 action planning session with their experienced advisors. All for free. The main ambition is to help retail businesses in the South West to adapt to the changing and challenging circumstances caused by lockdowns and the many-tiered restrictions affecting business trading. With shoppers barred from all but a handful of retail businesses, most traders have pulled down the shutters and suffered from heavy financial hardship. However, for many businesses, it is possible to still trade online and to communicate regularly with customers through social media. Cosmic is a social enterprise based in East Devon, with the mission of tackling digital inclusion problems. This project, like much of their work, focuses on helping local industry and communities to thrive through better access and use of digital technology. The training provider will be offering a series of online workshops, hosted on the easy-to-use platform, Zoom. Attendees simply need to register in advance, and will then be emailed a link to attend the event. No special applications or software required. There are three workshops: Selling Online: Monday 8th March @ 1pm Our straight forward, no fuss workshop, will guide you through setting up a successful online shop, establishing your online selling strategy, online customer service, payment options and the rules for online and distance selling. Social Media for retail businesses: Monday 15th March @ 2pm Looking at how you become successful on social media; how you create a sustainable social media strategy; and how you can be sure customers will engage and interact with your business. Digital Marketing Strategies for retail businesses: Thursday 18th March @ 11am Learn how to build a digital marketing plan to reach your customers, raise awareness, interest and create desire to purchase your products. After attending a workshop, all participants are invited to a free one hour 1-to1 consultation with a trainer in the following days, to identify key actions that the business can take. Booking and further information is available at www.cosmic.org.uk/projects/retailrecovery-programme or email planning@cosmic.org.uk This activity is being funded by Heart of the South West Growth Hub.

1st Torrington Scout Group

fter a virtual Christmas camp and a nice Christmas break the Scouts are now back to their weekly Zoom meetings. To start the year off they had a big dress up challenge! This was a real laugh; a random piece of clothing was called out and they had to be the quickest to get it and put it on top of their current clothes. The result being Scouts were rather warm with up to 20 layers of clothes on! We also had a big quiz evening where we had a mixture of general knowledge, scouting and music questions. This was run by one of our young leaders. The following week another young leader ran a politics evening where we followed up on the results of ‘Make your Mark’ - the biggest youth consultation in the world! Our Scouts took part in this as part of the UK Youth Parliament Week. A debate night was held by one of the Scouts, to discuss the very serious topis of which is better-ice cream or cake for dessert? Also whether they should be set homework or not. Cubs have been meeting by Zoom every three weeks and setting themselves different badges to complete in-between. The disabled badge has been completed and next time it's global issues. If you have a son or daughter interested in joining Cubs aged 8-10 or Scouts aged 10-14 or if you may be interested in helping out please contact Jordon Group Scout Leader on email Jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Something to Look Forward to After Lockdown from The Plough Arts Centre!

n summer 2020, once restrictions were lifted, The Plough Arts Centre quickly arranged some last minute open air theatre events across North Devon. 2,500 people sat safely in their bubbles and enjoyed some fantastic shows. This summer we have planned our biggest ever Open Air Theatre Festival with 48 performances at 15 venues, including RHS Garden Rosemoor, Tapeley Park, Arlington Court (NT), Lapford Mill, Brushford Barton, Tawstock Court, Hartland Abbey, The Big Sheep, Castle Hill Filleigh, Blackberry Farm, Castle Drogo (NT) Fyne Court (NT) and many more. There are shows for all ages by the cream of the UK open air theatre companies, including Horrible Histories, Illyria, The HandleBards, The Rude Mechanicals, The Pantaloons, Heartbreak, BoxTree, The Three Inch Fools, Immersion, The Festival Players, Jack Dean & Co, The Last Baguette, Cygnet Theatre and The Duke's Theatre Company. Performances for families include Alice in Wonderland, Mr Stink, The Jungle Book, Dr Dolittle, King Arthur, The Three Musketeers, Wonder with Grimm, Robin Hood, The Adventures of Merlin, and Gorgeous Georgians & Vile Victorians. Shows for adults with older children include Romeo & Juliet, Pride & Prejudice, Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Much Ado, Merry Wives of Windsor, The Tempest, HMS Pinafore, Little Lillie Harley, The Great Gatsby and Henry V. The nation's largest open air theatre festival is happening right here in North Devon. It can all go ahead even with social distancing in place, so dust down your low back seating, buff up your blankets, plan your picnic and prepare to enjoy some magical theatrical moments with your family in the great outdoors! See our website for details of all the shows. Tickets will be on sale from 1st April. Thank You… We are delighted to announce that we've received a major award of £50k from Garfield Weston from their culture fund awards. Under a quarter of applications were successful and

successful applicants included the National Theatre, the RSC and the London Symphony Orchestra. The reason why we were successful is that we could demonstrate local authority support from Torridge District, North Devon, Barnstaple Town and Torrington Town Councils - and above all, the support we had from our local community (if you can remember that far back, last year saw a wonderful fundraising effort from hundreds of individuals shortly before lockdown) SO THANK YOU. We were also able to show support from Torrington Alms and Lands, the National Lottery and Arts Council England and many others funders down the years. The award will be repeated again next year if the effects of the Covid crisis are still being felt. So in fact that is one award we'd rather not get and would rather that circumstances had changed so much that we weren't given it again!

Plough Youth Theatre

Youth Take Over Plough The Future Fri 9 & 16 Apr 10am-4pm via Zoom Our Plough The Future team has been busy planning events and workshops via Zoom for a 'Youth Takeover!' Look out for these fantastic opportunities on our website and Facebook page. FREE thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund. Limited Spaces. Witches Can't Be Burned by Silva Semerciyan - National Theatre Connections Plough Youth Theatre Seniors Sat 10 Apr 4pm & 7pm via Zoom Set against the backdrop of a group of students performing Arthur Miller's The Crucible - the play explores the changing perceptions of gender, protest and equality, putting Miller's iconic play, its relevance and politics on trial. FREE thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund Plough Prism Drama Via Zoom Tuesdays An exciting weekly drama workshop via Zoom for adults with additional needs with the support of their carers. Limited numbers.10.30-11.10am (Group Zoom

Workshop) 11.15am-12.30pm (individual Zoom Sessions – times will be allocated) Currently FREE thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund. Motion Dance via Zoom - Tuesdays An enjoyable weekly dance and movement workshop via Zoom for adults with additional needs with the support of their carers. Limited numbers.1.30pm2.30pm Currently FREE Thanks To The Devon Community Foundation. Plough Youth Theatre – Saturdays & Mondays (Via Zoom in lockdown) With fun and friendly weekly workshops and exciting performance opportunities, PYT is the place to be! Learn new skills, make friends and take to the stage! Limited numbers. Seniors (13-18) Saturdays 10am-12noon Juniors (8-12) Saturdays 1-3.00pm Juniors (8-12) Mondays 3.45pm-5.45pm £75/£60 supporters For bookings call 01805 624624 or for further information call 07527 544 694 email sophie@theploughartscentre.org. uk. Plough Youth Theatre is supported by The Achates-Gard Fund

Plough The Future

Are you between 10-18? Do you have a passion for the arts? Do you have new ideas? Would you like to represent young people’s voices here at The Plough Arts Centre? We meet every third Friday of the month between 4-5pm and hold additional opportunities in half terms and the summer. If you would like to be part of our ‘Plough The Future’ team please email sophie@theplougharstcentre.org.uk. FREE Thanks To The Devon Community Foundation For further information call 07527 544 694 or email sophie@ theplougharstcentre.org.uk. For bookings call 01805 624624 or for further information call 07527 544 694 email sophie@theploughartscentre.org. uk.

LIFE BALANCE COACHING

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i, Freddie here, reporting in with all the news from the rescue. It still seems very strange to not have visitors but it has actually been quite a busy month here, with good and sad news. So let’s start with the good news. Bertie the Bassett Hound, who has been with us for 46 weeks has found his forever retirement home and is now living the dream. I am very pleased for him as he had been here so long and was starting to get very sad and, of course, had been very poorly. So although Aunty Lynne is not strictly rehoming from the centre, she made an exception for Bertie. The reason we are not rehoming is that people are not allowed on site to meet any of us dogs, and can only view us by video, which isn’t really an acceptable way - us dogs like to choose our new friends you know!. Anyway, Aunty Lynne took Bertie to meet his new people in their garden and he knew instantly that these were the people he wanted to adopt – they had previously had seven Bassett Hounds so he knew straight away that he would be cared for! That is the good news, now for the very sad news. You will have been following the story about Missy and one day I went to look at her in her kennel – actually to tease her - and she didn’t react to me at all which was no fun, so I had to go and tell Aunty Lynne that I thought something was amiss. She was immediately taken

seeing proof of ownership. Better still be patient and wait until you can adopt one of my friends in rescue. I now must apologise as we did promise another auction in February, but sadly we didn’t have enough goodies to sell so please, if you do have any items that you are able to donate then do email to the vet where she was found to lynne@k9focus.co.uk. She may not be have a very high temperature and was able to collect just yet, but she will get immediately given an antibiotic injection back to you to make arrangements for and tablets. She was brought back and when she can. Sadly, although we truly that night we were all given some lovely appreciate the offers of home cooked chicken (I food, towels and bedding know this was just to try etc, we are unable to take and make her eat but it these at the moment due was nice I have to say). to both the strict Covid Sadly the next day she disinfectant procedures was found paralysed in we have had to adopt and her kennel, unable to storage issues, so please stand. Once again she don’t be offended if you was rushed to the vet have offered things and where, sadly, it was felt items have been declined. the vet could do nothing to help and so my little Missy found her wings and went The offer of support we have received over to Rainbow Bridge. We don’t really from the local community has been amazing and really has kept us going at know what happened and what caused the rescue, through what has been the it, but now she is at peace. most difficult year ever experienced. The other sad story I keep hearing Hopefully March will see the rescue about are all the dog thefts that are happening – not that I am worried as we returning to some sort of normal working have lots of security here at the kennels. practices and I, for one, look forward to seeing visitors, daycare/boarding The demand for dogs has soared since dogs, and volunteers on site but, in the lockdown, along with the price, and so I meantime, please do remember you can am appealing to everyone to please do watch out for us dogs and remember not follow all our antics on our Facebook to leave us tied up anywhere, even for a page at www.facebook.com/K9focus. Enjoy the daffodils that are springing moment. Some nasty people have even broken into cars to steal the dog! These up (remembering that they are poisonous to us woofs) and I will be back next dogs are then being sold at extortionate month. prices and, while I can understand Loves and licks as always, everyone wanting a dog, please do be Fabulous Freddie careful and if you do buy, please insist on

The Devon Beaver Projects - Could they bring flood relief to Taddiport?

ost people will have read For those unfamiliar with beavers, over the last few years of they are a mainly aquatic mammal of the 'Beaver Trials' taking similar size to a small badger and are place in East Devon on the river Otter. totally vegetarian. They are the largest Well, they've finally been found 'Not British rodent -- that is, their teeth are Guilty' and it is established that there continually growing and they live by has been negligible ill effect on the gnawing down riverside scrub and small human environment and tremendous trees and eating leaves and branches improvement in biodiversity, together with which they also store underwater for becoming a popular tourist asset. their winter sustenance. Reference Initially a pair of beavers was spotted to cutting down trees may ring alarm on the river Otter some seven years ago. bells with tree-planting schemes taking It is not known place nationwide, "The initial experiment has now where they came reached its conclusion and it has been but remember from as they beavers never found that the beavers on the river venture far from had been extinct Otter (how inappropriate a name!) the water and in England for are a beneficial addition to the natural Natural England, centuries, but it is assumed that they ecosystem and instead of being illegal the conservation had been illegally authority, pays immigrants, they will become a released by protected species of British wildlife." subsidies to land some 'misguided' owners to coppice enthusiast keen to reintroduce this long- (cut down) areas of riparian marshy lost species to its historic homeland. woodland for the sake of biodiversity -- a The authorities, English Nature at that job that beavers will do for free. time, were reluctant to permit this 'exotic' Another job that the Environment animal to remain at large but wildlife Agency, together with the Wildlife Trusts, conservationists backed by the Devon are spending much effort and money on Wildlife Trust persuaded English Nature is 'natural flood relief' which is achieved to license a controlled experiment to by slowing down the rate at which heavy assess the potential impact on the rainfall on the moors and headwaters of riverside environment over a period of the rivers runs down the valleys often years. causing flooding on more sensitive The initial experiment has now reached sites downstream (like Taddiport). One its conclusion and it has been found technique employed to delay excess runthat the beavers on the river Otter (how off is building brushwood dams across inappropriate a name!) are a beneficial small streams that run into the main addition to the natural ecosystem and rivers. Such dams cause the formation instead of being illegal immigrants, of ponds and restrict the flow of water they will become a protected species of while reducing siltation and improving British wildlife. water purity - but wait a minute - isn't

that just what beavers are most famous for? Introduce a few families of beavers into suitable areas of the upper Torridge catchment and they'll soon be 'beavering away' building dams and containment ponds that will be wonderful for all wildlife while providing some protection from flooding downstream. It just needs some land owners with unproductive riverside marshland and willow scrubland to get together and approach Devon Wildlife Trust to promote such a scheme. Devon Wildlife Trust has produced a colourfully illustrated 20-page scientific report on an enclosed beaver introduction site in the headwaters of Roadford Lake that makes fascinating reading. It includes maps of the Roadford beaver site, developing over six years from a single marshy stream to a network of ponds and dams and interconnecting rivulets, with corresponding enrichment of habitat for plants, fish, amphibians and invertebrates. To learn more about DWT, beavers and other projects, look up the DWT web-site: www.devonwildlifetrust.org. Chris Hassall

Bringing The Globe Hotel back to life - an Update

here’s been a lot going on behind the scenes to keep moving investigations into bringing The Globe Hotel back to life. There’s a lot still to do for what is a hugely challenging and innovative project. We need to make sure that all of the details are just right, so that we can all create a sustainable business for the town and community which will bring a range of benefits for years to come. But we’re now ready to make some real progress over the next couple of months. A quick reminder of our goals; * To bring together a communityfocused acquisition of The Globe Hotel, to be owned by the community. We are investigating this project with the support of the current owner. * As part of that, over the next few months we will be reaching out to start forming the community body who will help steer the project and, ultimately, own the building! Watch this space for more info if you think you might be interested in getting involved. And it really, really doesn’t matter if you’ve never been involved in things like this before- we want to hear passionate, positive voices who are going to help create a real difference for Great Torrington and the surrounding areas. * To develop, along with Petroc, a high quality training offer to support young people to develop higher skills in hospitality and tourism, benefitting hospitality and tourism businesses across the region. Through that to offer a great place to stay, have a drink or eat

some delicious food. * To work with the neighbouring Plough Arts Centre to explore opportunities to create an even stronger artistic and cultural offer for the town. * To create a building and business with genuine climate consciousness, reflecting on the town’s beautiful green surroundings and the Climate Emergency facing us all.

and also your memories! They will be working closely with a range of key community stakeholders, including Petroc, the Plough Arts Centre, Town and Community Hall and, hopefully, you! * Our next step will be to procure architects to take the proposals forward to the planning application stage, making sure that our plans are fully deliverable, but also taking into consideration both the heritage and hospitality needs. We’ve had some really exciting conversations so far, so we’ll see what emerges as the process unfurls! Lockdown, social distancing and all of the restraints that we’ve now become familiar with as a result of the pandemic mean that having ‘in-person’ events is going to be challenging. So we’re going to have to get creative, but hopefully that can also lead to plenty of smiles and fun along the way. This will only work and ultimately be * To create a vibrant, communitysustainable, if we as a community get owned business which can also then on-board and get involved. continue to invest not just in the young To help things along, and to help keep people of the town, but also in creating a in touch, we’ve now set up a Facebook vibrant town centre for everyone to enjoy. page, ‘Bringing the Globe Hotel back to So, thanks to funding from the life’ that we’d love you to come and get Architectural Heritage Fund (one of involved with. We would also ask you, only six projects in the country that they pretty please, to help spread the word funded in November last year). about it and get more people involved. * The Real Ideas Organisation is fully The more of us there are, the more on-board and is now getting active with change we can help to spark! all sorts of fun plans to hopefully get Chris Fuller you all involved in, for your thoughts

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Resistance: the refusal to accept or comply with something. Noun, 10 letters Such a simple word Just another simple word from the dictionary Nothing special. Nothing special? Not only a word, but the base of change The fight, the battle, the war against evil Marked in history Until the end of time Resistance The struggle against evil The refusal to comply with wrong Building up the bravery to help others Selflessly acting to bring about change Resistance: appearing in our history books since the beginning of time Always emerging when justice must be brought Where evil hurts another person, Takes another life What is resistance? To me it is not only a word Not only another 10 letter word To me, resistance is the bravery of normal people Standing up Doing what is right Changing the entire course of history Resistance: another 10 letter word, or the base of change? Adrianna Jankowska, Year 11

Wednesday 27th January was Holocaust Memorial Day. Many of our pupils spent House Time with their tutors (remotely of course!) learning about resistance to Nazism. Here is the outcome of their thoughtful work to mark the occasion: some brilliant pupil poems about resistance. Resistance

Resist, they said. Resist! But resistance is futile. My brain screamed. But I fought, I still fought. Stayed. Just like they said too But the ticking of the time, Running out of my hands The deeper I get The dimmer the lights Shouts from behind But no one came The trees screamed The wind howled Then nothing And I was free Saved by resistance So many won But so many lost And in my head Resistance is not futile Imogen Turnball

Resistance

Resistance to me is not showing fear, To show courage, to keep smiling from ear to ear, Children carried secret messages in deliveries of bread, They were so innocent the idea passed over Nazi heads, Some kept documents, hidden underground, They recorded their lives with gas chambers around, Some Jews were saved, over six million were not, People died but they resisted, keeping their culture and not giving up, Resistance is not expressed in just the ones I have listed, It is hidden in many things, Because thousands of people resisted. Isla Hammersley, Year 7

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On a similar theme, Year 8 pupils have been studying a collection of poetry from diverse cultures, which focuses particularly on the experience of refugees and emigration. Pupils read the poem ‘Mother in a Refugee Camp’ and then wrote their own poems imagining what this harrowing experience would be like: Resistance

Jews taken to their last place Nazis are the enemy's face Nazis had no grace. No food, not even grain Children screaming in pain Men are yelling in vain Nazis making it a game. Then the resistance came Men all blood stained Still have no grain. Bodies lay grey Half knew no name Fighting in the faded sun… Culture carried by they. More men came Jews not the main. Clouds turned grey Nazi force were untamed Will the work pay? Will it all go the drain? The Jews didn't just have the pain Cambodia 1975-79 … Rwanda 1994 … Bosnia 1995 … Darfur 2003 in rain…. Harry Pincombe, Year 7

Trapped

Weeping, crying, sadness Surrounding her, trapping her. She cannot escape: The noise, pounding Like a never-ending headache. Foul mud and grime filling the air And shoeless children running in and Out of the tent in which they call home; Covering it with muddy foot prints. The world is closing in on her: sick and dizzy and her whole head spinning. Why can she just not disappear? Unable to care for her baby properly She feels useless – unneeded – unloved. She is broken, wounded and afraid. No matter how hard she tries She cannot deny it – she is trapped And, there is no breaking free. Holly Sullivan Year 8

Eternal Slumber

Slouched against her tent, Not able to move a muscle, Surrounded by the voices of hopeful youths, And the sullen parents, Knowing of the terrifying fate awaiting them. She watches, As the bell is rung, And the infants run, Excited to collect their share, Hoping to fill the void inside of them. Knowing she doesn't need it anymore, Tears start dropping, Sinking into the mud below, She takes a deep breath, And falls into her eternal slumber. William Loud Year 8

Year 7 poetry inspired by the Raven by Edgar Allan Poe The cold night chilled my nerves as I walked in fright The darkness enclosing, as the silence imposing Within the night ahead, a house, relieving my dread The whisper of more footsteps stalked me This scare I had with no one to share Turning round a wolf stood not making a sound His teeth dripping blood, my adrenaline flood Facing upwards he howled into the night Slamming the door I trembled to the core The wolf stalked around house, it was a game of cat and mouse His hot breath on the glass, how long will this last Endlessly howling as the night went on. Fergus Lewis Year 7

Private Fred Stanley Winson

red Winson was born in Great Torrington in 1894 and was baptised later that year. At the time of 1901 the family are found living at 18 Well Street. Fred’s parents are Fredrick and Fanny, both born in the town in 1868 and 1867 respectively. Fredrick has employment as a tin plate worker. There are three sons in the household; Fred, aged 6 at this stage, his older brother, Charles, who is 8 years, and his younger brother, Herbert, aged 4. Again, all the children were born in Great Torrington. In the same year Fred was enrolled into Great Torrington Bluecoat School by his father. Little had changed by the time of the 1911 census with the household consisting of the same faces and the family still living at 18 Well Street. The parents have occupation as a plumber and a ‘glove pointer’. Two of their children are also in employment with Charles as a plumbing apprentice and Fred having an apprenticeship to ‘engineering implements’. The youngest son, Herbert, is still of school age. Little is known about Fred’s life between this point and his death. We know that he originally enlisted with the Devonshire Regiment, holding service number 266157. At the time of enlistment his residence was listed as Torrington, although he actually enlisted in Barnstaple. After this point he was transferred to the Machine Gun Corps and held the service number 113461. He was attached to the 257th Company. We also know that he was engaged with the Mesopotamia campaign, although details beyond this are unknown. Machine gun technology was seen as a major contributing factor in the huge numbers of casualties during the Great War. This technology advanced as the war advanced both in terms of reliability, efficiency and portability; part of this would be to overcome one of the most common issues, overheating. In November 1915 machine gun companies were formed and one was attached to each brigade. This was coupled with a machine gun training centre based at Grantham, which acted as a conduit to putting newly trained recruits into these companies. The 257th Company is recorded to have moved to the Indian theatre from August 1917 and in Mesopotamia from November 1917. The North Devon Journal reported Fred’s death on 18th July 1918. His date of death is recorded as 18th June 1918. It is also reported that he drowned whilst on active service in Mesopotamia. He was 24 years of age. As well as being remembered on the Great Torrington war memorial, Private Winson is also remembered on the Basra war memorial in Iraq. Although his grave is unmarked, his name appears on panel 41 of the memorial. I would very much like to expand this story, so I would welcome any details you may have on Fred Winson’s life. Please feel free to contact me on 07583 607 434 or email michael.mnewcombe@gmail.com. Michael Newcombe

Cavaliers Column Chapter 11

ith very little to report on the Mayflower Bonfire as we are still awaiting advice on restriction lifting, I thought I’d take a short stroll down ‘Nostalgia Alley’ and reproduce a report that appeared in ‘The Guardian’ Newspaper in August 2000. The Great Fire of Torrington For the best part of two years a team of eccentric volunteers had laboured to create a perfect replica of a corner of 17th century London. Yesterday 100 square metres of smouldering ash was all that remained after the structure was torched in an extravagant re-enactment of The Great Fire of London. An estimated 20,000 people turned out to view the spectacle on the Commons at Great Torrington in North Devon, a beauty spot normally reserved for picnickers and bargain hunters at the car boot sales. The ideas of acting out The Great Fire of 1666 was credited to The Great Torrington Cavaliers, a group which has raised many thousands of pounds for charity by, quite legally, raising fires. Since its foundation in 1970 the group has set fire to replicas of a Spanish galleon, the battleship Bismarck, the

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The Splendour of Spring Arrives & the Garden Awakes!

local church- which was destroyed in the Civil War-and even The Houses of Parliament. But to mark The Millennium year, The Cavaliers set about the demanding task of creating the streets around Pudding Lane where the Great Fire started. Dave Kelly, Chairman of The Cavaliers at the time, carried out much of the research for the project, spending hours in London to ensure that the replica was as accurate as possible and making invaluable contacts. The framework was constructed from tree trunks removed from a nearby school, while roof supports were reclaimed from the local pannier market when it was refurbished. Other materials were donated by local builders, equipment was loaned and businesses chipped in with sponsorship. The team of volunteers put in some 5,000 hours to build the structure, which required temporary planning permission and the attendance of three fire engines and two ambulances standing by. Steven Morris. Mon 28 Aug 2000. Hopefully more up to date news next month once we can firm up on which way we can progress on our current build and in the meantime… ‘All for One and One for All’ Ace

pring is one of my favourite times of year, after a lot of tidying up over winter the garden is ready for all the plants to burst into life again and start the spring spectacle with colourful flowers and lush foliage, with a sense of freshness and hopefully a change in the weather! The first sign of spring to me is the vibrant and often colour clashing flower power provided by some of our garden favourites: camellias, rhododendrons and magnolias. These plants come from many countries, including China, the Himalayas and Japan. They have been a staple of British horticulture since intrepid plant hunters, scouring the world in search of interesting plants to grace our gardens, first introduced them. Here at RHS Rosemoor we grow a huge variety of these gems, many we plant under a light tree canopy to protect them from the often sharp spring frosts which can damage their flowers. Once these trees are in leaf, they protect and shade them during the hotter summer months. With so many of these gems to choose from these are some I would not do without! Camellia x williamsii ‘Saint Ewe’ with a vibrant single pink flower, it arose from breeding work at Caerhays Castle in Cornwall in the 1920s by John Charles Williams, and was named after the nearby village of St Ewe. This

is a reliable flowerer often starting in November and continuing until April. Rhododendron ‘Hino-crimson’, with lush green foliage which adds to the garden throughout the year and bright crimson flowers in spring. The evergreen Japanese azeleas are vibrant in colour from pure whites, shocking oranges and vibrant reds and when all planted in bold groups they provide a spectacle of pure flower power with all the leaves hiding below. A very special plant Magnolia campbellii which is not for a small garden; this graceful flowering tree from the Himalayas produces stunning pink to white flowers the size of dinner plates, it is one of the first magnolias to flower and if not planted in a nice sheltered spot can get caught by a frosty night. Jonathan Webster Curator RHS Rosemoor Image: Azeleas flowering in the Woodland Garden Rosemoor ©RHS/ Jason Ingram

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