Torrington Crier March 24

FREE March 2024 The Crier is produced 10 times a year on behalf of the community, by The Crier Community Interest Company.

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

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One person’s clutter...

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

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

Contact us...

Disclaimer:

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

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

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 07912 693 858 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £26 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £51 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

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

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Friendly professional lawn mowing and general garden maintenance.

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.

Face-to-face or online sessions available Contact for more information 07467 702 605 www.birds-willowcounselling.com

Town Hall News

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he weather may be gloomy, but at the Town Hall we are in great spirits looking forward to planning future events for our community – more on this later.

Meanwhile, we are pleased to report on the FREE Beeline for Digital skills course which we mentioned in last month’s Crier. Nigel, one of our Trustees, who is on duty while the 5-week course is running, was delighted to hear from a local resident who, after just one session, felt more confident and was really looking forward to getting to grips with technology! This is one of several courses run by Learn Devon, and the computers are provided for the lesson at the Town Hall. Do get in touch with them to find out how they can help you on 01237 472462 or go to www.learndevon.co.uk to see all the information available.

Burlesque & Flex It! Claire Harris has been running her well-attended Burlesque Classes every Tuesday evening at the Town Hall from 7-8pm, and is now offering a new ‘Flex It’ class from 8.15-9pm. Claire recommends this for anyone wishing to increase flexibility in their joints, relaxation, release tension and increase their mental and physical wellbeing. It sounds amazing! £17 for both classes, or £10 each if only attending one class.

Message Claire on 07793 317 847.

Say “I Do” Again at the Town Hall

Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding.

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

The Town Hall makes a perfect venue, with historic spaces and a beautiful staircase providing a stunning location for a renewal of vows ceremony. Want to know more? See below.

What is a renewal of vows ceremony?

It’s a way couples can reaffirm their vows to each other, when they have previously entered into a formal wedding or civil partnership.

When does it take place? Anytime!

Some people choose a milestone wedding anniversary, but there are no set times - you decide.

Who takes the service? You can choose who you want to officiate; it could be a family member, a friend, or a Celebrant who specialises in enhancing the ceremony in various ways. We have a list of Celebrants we can put you in touch with.

What happens after? Perhaps you might want to consider a special cocktail or bubbly to finish the celebration, served by our own staff, or this can be followed by an intimate lunch or big party for family and friends.

Our team at the Town Hall can help you with your arrangements and suggest caterers if required. Ring us on 01805 625662 if you would like to discuss in more detail and don’t forget we can help you arrange any special celebrations coming up, in a beautiful setting for

Garden waste removal service also available.

precious memories.

A very special date for your diary!

On the 8th June we are holding a ‘Boogie in the Bunker 40s’ dance to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. In tribute to the men and woman who gave their lives for our freedom, we plan to have a nostalgic night of 40s music, dancing, food, fun and glamour.

If anyone would like to be involved or has any memorabilia we could borrow, please contact Paula on 07793 241 555.

Watch this space for further details!

Volunteering The Town Hall is a building of historic interest, and deserves to be reserved as part of the town’s heritage for now and future generations. Would you like to be part of our team of volunteers, advisors and trustees to support the continuation of this important building? Events are fun to plan and work at and you’ll get to meet new friends. Pop in or call Sandra 07966 570 367 or email us admin@ greatttorrington-townhall.org.

01805 601122

www.removalsnorthdevon.co.uk sales@coppsremovals.co.uk Storage & self-storage available at our secure premises at Stibb Cross, Torrington, EX38 8LQ

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Drain clearing Drain clearing CCTV surveys CCTV surveys Repairs/Relining Repairs/Relining Septic Tank Septic Tankand and Treatment plant Treatment plantinstallation installation Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251

The End of an Era

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evon Mobile Libraries, including our Torrington Mobile, end their service to rural communities on 29th February.

We say a very sad farewell, knowing this service will be greatly missed by customers.

It is hoped a Home Library Service of volunteers, in communities no longer serviced by the mobile, can deliver books - including large print - and audio books to homes. If you would be interested in being a volunteer, please contact your local library or look for details online. We also offer Good Neighbours, a membership for friends, family and neighbours wishing to choose and deliver books for those not able to come to a library themselves.

Libraries Unlimited’s digital offer on Borrowbook continues to grow, with ever more titles for eBooks, eAudio, eNewspapers and eMagazines. Check out our website for more details.

Meet up Mondays 10am-1pm Our final session this year is on 11th March.

We have enjoyed hosting some great events and activities so far, so join us for our last few sessions.

One 2 One IT support for your device or laptop If you have received a new smartphone, tablet or laptop for Christmas, and are now confused over what seemed so simple and easy when

you were first shown, our volunteer Perry is here to offer you practical help, every other Thursday morning over a cuppa (by appointment only). Please call: 01805 622107 to book a support session.

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

Our lively sessions for babies, toddlers and their grown-ups clearly dispel any assumptions that libraries are quiet places! Come along, join the fun and stay after to play and chat.

Baby Self Weigh Tuesdays 11.30am-4pm is available each week after Bounce & Rhyme.

Children’s Crafting with Chris Saturdays 9th & 23rd March. Drop-in session between 10.30am-12pm Donations welcome, to support the event and materials.

Children can sign up free for The Secret Book Quest, our fun reading challenge. Read books and progress through amazing zones, collect certificates, and get entered into an amazing prize draw after reading 50 books.

Remember your library is free to use, to choose and enjoy a wide range of books. We have a great online offer - also free!

We also have internet access via public access computers, WiFi and printing and photocopying availability.

Why buy books when you can borrow! www.devonlibraries.org.uk/web/arena Facebook: @TorringtonLibraryDevon Follow us on Facebook to find out

the latest information about library events and information. We post on our page regularly, so it is a good place to find out what’s going on and share it with your friends.

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

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

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

Torri Youth

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rojects and activities are coming soon at Torrington Youth!

From April onwards there will be: Getting Creative Sew Day - join us to have a fun day learning how to use a sewing machine and make a bag.

Photography Project No 2 Graffiti Project Arts n Crafts workshops Torri Media- learning skills in creating social media posts, recordings, newspaper articles.

For more information or to book a space contact Paula.ftorriyouth@gmail. com.

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

Collect from Torrington, Bideford, Barnstaple, & surrounding areas

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

A Wife for all Reasons

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ocal writer Stephanie Easton, a member of Torrington Players, whose six monologues ‘A Wife for all Reasons’ were performed to sell-out audiences he Rolle Canal & Northern Devon in the Oak Room of the Town Hall in 2019 and 2021, is delighted that they Waterways Society is once again have recently been staged in Sherborne. putting on a series of monthly These award-winning reflections on the lives of the wives of Henry Vlll, were walks throughout the summer and invites recommended to the prestigious Amateur Players of Sherborne by the National the public to join them in discovering the Operatic and Dramatic Association’s regional representative Graham Liverton, history of the canal and other transport since the group performs in their own small theatre, a venue ideal for these intimate links between Great Torrington and the cameos to be staged.

Torridge estuary.

Said Director of APS, Adrian Harding, “On first reading the play I was instantly Sunday 12th May: Ridd Inclined Plane; attracted to the way in which these little “dramas” were constructed and I Walk Leader: Tony Nicolls immediately knew that I wanted to bring these to our Sherborne audiences. We Sunday 9th June: Rosemoor Basin/ initially only intended to run the monologues for three nights, but they so captured Darkham Weir; Walk Leader: Michael the cast’s - and the public's - imagination that we ended up by extending the run to Elliott a whole week, including a matinee. We had sold all the tickets by the Wednesday Saturday 6th July: Annery Kiln/Sea evening of the week of the show.”

Lock; Walk Leader: Adrian Wills Stephanie was thrilled by the reception of ‘A Wife for all Reasons’ and has Sunday 11th August: Staple Vale/Beam already had approaches from other societies interested in performing them.

Aqueduct; Walk Leader: Ian Harrison Sunday 1st September: Taddiport/ Torrington Commons; Walk Torringon Rotary Open Leaders: Mickey Reynolds & Ian Gardens Harrison ollowing the success of the The Rolle Canal Walks take place inaugural ‘Open Gardens’ on summer weekends starting at event last summer, when we 2:30pm and lasting two hours or a raised over £1000 for the Bickford little more. They are guided by Rolle Centre, we’re working again this year Canal Society members and, where with Torrington in Bloom and RHS on private ground, permission has Rosemoor for a second ‘Open Gardens kindly been granted by the landDay’ this summer – Sunday 16th June. owners. However, individuals take Entry will include free admittance to part at their own risk and must take RHS Rosemoor too…. But we need responsibility for their own safety your help! Our charity this year will be at all times. The distance is usually Torrington Foodbank, so if you’d like around two miles. The income from the small charge of £2 per person on the guided walks makes a valuable contribution to the Society's work in improving access along to help us and have a garden, large or small which could be open to the public, the canal and providing interpretation of the major features. please contact our President Stephen Stout footwear is recommended. Please note that dogs, even on leads, are Saywell, stephenhsaywell@hotmail. discouraged. More details will be published on the society’s website at www. com for further details. rollecanalsociety.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/rollecanal

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Great Torrington Commons

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May 11th we will be at the Castle Hill Creatives craft show in the gardens, then on July 20th we will be on the Old Bowling Green for the K9 Focus Dog Show. Then there will be a children’s fun day and picnic on the OBG, organised by the Plough Arts Centre in August, more details coming soon. We will be doing our famous ‘Water, Wine or Maybe Cider’ lucky dip at all of these events. We will be doing other events as they arise; please let us know if you would like us to come along to your event.

The Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group continues to grow, with more members signing up each week.

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

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

Andrew Giles 07956 366 390 and either The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per deliver to my home or arrange for me to month or a £24 annual donation, which collect them from you. We are so grateful can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if to Dartington Crystal for letting us use you are a taxpayer. You can let us know the space. They have told me that the at the application stage if this applies to shop and café have been busier due to you. the amount of local people that are going Joining the 365 Supporters group is there. simple: Webbers are continuing to sell our Option 1. Cut out or photocopy the brand new teddy bears, 17 bears have application form in the Crier and post it to found new homes so far. You can also the address on the form. You can pay by buy them from the Tarka Valley Railway standing order or by sending a cheque shop on any Thursday and one Saturday for £24. per month. They would make a great Option 2. Visit the website www. birthday present at only £5 each. torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you We will be at quite a few events this year to raise funds for your Commons. can apply online. Here you have the May 4th and 5th we will be at Rosemoor; option of paying by PayPal or standing he Mayor of Great Torrington, Doug Smith, has officially opened our bookshop at Dartington Crystal. Doug was surprised how big the shop is, we have thousands of books there priced at only £1, £2 and £3. The shop is proving to be extremely valuable in helping us to raise the funds needed to look after your Commons: the Conservators need to raise almost £70,000 this year. I would like to thank everyone who has donated books, CDs, DVDs, records, cassettes, jigsaws and LEGO to us. We have also received foreign coins and lots of maps. The Dartington Crystal shop will be selling books only, and all the other items will be sold from our car boot stall starting from the first Sunday in April. You can drop off items in the shop or you can contact me

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Current 365 Supporters Shops AHJ Builders 07977 668164 Attic Gems Antiques Fore Street Bokhara South Street Candles and Pearls in South Street Boom Tingz Burgerz Potacre Street Computer Works 07714 717055 Cornmarket Antiques Pannier Market Crafty Needles In the Pannier Market Dafforn and Sons New Street Dartington Crystal Duane’s Carvings & Gallery Pannier Market Fine Floral Design in South Street Fork ‘n’ Feast at 1646 Castle Hill Hair We Are in South Street Hogwash Soap Castle Street and online Ian Coote Architecture 07883 067899 Instant Images embroidery South Street Java Gifts Cornmarket Street Jayne Poole Photography Cornmarket St Kitch ‘N’ Cupboard in the Pannier Market Lillian Rose Interiors Well Street Little Leaf Pregnancy 07714 717055 No. 5 Hair and Beauty in South Street Not Just Travel Gillian Farr on Facebook Proseprints online and craft fairs R&S Ware Butchers in South Street Samantha Hardwick Lifestyle Coach Squires Electrical in the High Street Steve Gladwin Family Butchers Fore St Tanya’s Beauty Studio Fore Street The Cabin in South Street The Puffing Billy The Whole Jar in the Pannier Market Torrington Framing Torrington Golf Club Torrington Museum Bookshop High St Torrington Refill Shop in South Street Torr Vapes in South Street Toy Swap in the Pannier Market Whiskers Pet Centre South Street Xanadu (In-store discount only) South Street

order annually or monthly. You can also print an application form to post in with a cheque.

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

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

Andrew Giles

One Great Torrington Town Website

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

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

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

Have a look at www.

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

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

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Men’s Shed

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s the New Year gets underway, we are looking forward to the warmer, drier days so that we can get our garden projects started. The lean-to greenhouse is underway and hopefully will be completed soon.

We have increased our growing beds to two this year and will have a raised bed as well.

Lots of vegetables are planned for planting, potatoes are chitting as we speak.

Planters, potting tables and tiered stands are currently being built for sale, as well as to use in the vicarage garden.

Our normal nucleus of shedders is keeping busy by making bird boxes, recycle box storage units and general bits and bobs for the lovely people of Torrington. A donation of old wood from Trafalgar Drive play park, dropped off by Andy and Colin, will be well used in our projects this year.

We really need more people to come along and help with all of this year’s projects, any age, male or female are always welcome, so if you have a spare morning on a Tuesday or Thursday you would be warmly welcomed and tea and biscuits are always available.

Keep up to date with our progress through our Facebook page, Great Torrington Men's Shed.

Tony Warren

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Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Available in Torrington We are the only Ear Wax Clinic in Devon that doesn’t charge for a follow up appointment Call 07367 116 468 or visit our website www.devon-ear-clinic.co.uk 4 Well Street Torrington EX38 8EP

Torrington in Bloom

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he 31st January saw RHS Rosemoor apprentices begin working again in Rack Park. They removed the old tree stump, pruned the apple trees and crown-lifted some of the ornamental trees to allow more light in the areas surrounding.

The larger beds at the top of the park are being extended, and wooden edging is to be replaced over the coming weeks.

Not only that, our efforts at bulb planting last autumn are beginning to reap rewards and, by the time this issue of the Crier comes out, there should be a lovely display, especially on the sloping areas.

There is one big problem, however, and that is dog mess. Please, when you are walking your dog, make sure you clean up any mess they make. Dogs should actually be kept on a lead in a public area such as Rack Park, so please make the effort; there is a bin by the upper entrance, near the Methodist Chapel.

Following our successful ‘Garden Safari’ last year, TIB is looking to work together again with the Rotary Club, this time hopefully opening a few gardens (and perhaps some new gardens), during early/mid-June. Watch this space for further details.

Anyone can join our group, so if you are interested, pop along to Castle Hill Community garden on a Wednesday morning to meet some of our volunteers who will be very keen to recruit you!

Cherry Hammon

Torrington & District Historical Society

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ur next meeting is on Monday 11th March when we will be welcoming Sharon Snell, who will be telling us more about the Braddick family history. Sharon has done a lot of research into her family and collected a large family archive which she has been sharing with us. This is part three, so we are gradually getting up to date, and she includes a lot of images of Bideford and Westward Ho! in her presentations.

The Historical Society meets on the second Monday of the month and covers a wide range of subjects. We have had talks on many local subjects, like the history of the milk factory, Roman burial mounds and Torrington during the civil war. Sometimes we have subjects not quite so local and we love it when one of our members has an area of interest that they are happy to share with us. There are some very interesting family histories out there! During the summer we try and arrange visits to local places of interest such as Barnstaple Museum.

Membership of the society is £15 per annum, which covers all the talks during the year and an invitation to the visits during the summer. We welcome visitors to our talks at a cost of £4. The meetings are held at the Methodist Church at the top of Mill Street at 7pm for tea or coffee and a chat, followed by the talk at 7.30pm. If you are interested, details of meetings are in the Crier and on our Facebook page. Or phone Pauline on 01805 623089.

RHS Rosemoor Community Open Weekend 2nd-3rd March

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ome and watch spring unfurl at RHS Rosemoor for just £1 on the first weekend of March. Tickets are available by advance booking, and entrance fees will be returned as catering vouchers to use during your visit for this special community event.

At this time of year, the beautiful gardens are literally bursting into life. Relax on a peaceful lakeside stroll, take in the first burst of blossom in the Cherry Garden and follow the upper Woodland Walk to see an amazing variety of rhododendrons and camellias.

Families can follow a fun leaf-rubbing trail and let their imaginations run wild in two dedicated adventure play areas. Plus there is den building, Mr McGregor’s vegetable garden to visit, and pooh sticks to play on the bridges!

Bring a picnic or treat yourselves to a delicious meal in the Garden Restaurant which uses fresh produce straight from the garden.

Giant Easter Egg Hunt, 29th March-14th April Explorers of all ages can hunt down the enormous eggs hidden in the gardens to win a chocolately treat from NOMO - the UK’s No. 1 vegan & ‘free from’ chocolate brand. You can also book onto a special welly walk, meet the Easter bunny and even some real woolly friends during the Great Wool Weekend on Saturday 13th Sunday 14th April.

Activities included with garden admission (unless otherwise stated) - entry is free to RHS members and children under 5.

Visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on for details.

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Core Rehabilitation & Massage We can help you with: *Pelvic floor issues/women’s health For more information or to book please contact: *Core Rehabilitation for chronic muscular pain or weakness 07939 656 082 *Pilates & Hypopressives lizzie@completecorecontrol.com www.completecorecontrolandfitmummy.co.uk *Massage & Mobility

Slimming World

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hen we ran competition at the end of 2023 in the Crier, the winner was Veronica.

Here is what she says…

“The Covid pandemic knocked me sideways. Instead of the routine of going to work - walking home - I was working at home, so just sat in from of a computer most days.

I found I was seeking comfort, so comfort eating became my new routine.

My husband would bring me cakes and snacks - I didn’t even have to walk to the kitchen!

I didn’t need to dress smartly, so wore jogging bottoms and gradually the weight just crept on and on, until my clothes just didn’t fit!

I had gone from a size 12 to a very tight 16. I had been ill so I decided to retire and made a commitment to lose weight. I tried various diets, but nothing seemed to work and I did think about joining Slimming World but kept putting it off.

There was a competition in the Crier to receive membership and 12 weeks free so I had nothing to lose, except a stone or two, so I entered and luckily for me I won.

After the welcoming first day at group I felt re-focussed and re-energised, and I have managed to lose nearly two stone in 12 weeks!!! Stepping onto the scales at group each week kept me on track in a way that weighing at home just couldn’t do. I always stay at the group, you get amazing support and lots of ideas, and hear all the meals other members are

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Keep a Close Eye on Employee Absence

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he bottom line is that absence costs you A LOT of money. In 2020, absence cost UK business owners approx. 7bn. Can you believe it?

While colds and flus are unavoidable, and it’s expected for your employees to take the odd day off here and there, it is important to keep a close eye on how much absence could be costing your business.

How can you calculate the cost to your business?

You need to think about the knock-on effect.

Well, not only is their salary still being paid, but this causes a resourcing issue for you, their workload often falls on the shoulders of their colleagues, which can lead to decreased productivity, missed deadlines and possible disruptions to client relationships.

How you can track absence The easiest way for you to keep a close eye on absence is to track it using HR software like Breathe. Software like this allows you to automatically record, monitor and report on trends; giving you all of the insights you need to understand how much of an issue absence is to your business.

How you can understand the cause of absence in your business Carrying out return-to-work interviews is the easiest way for you to understand why employees are taking time off from work. In some cases, these interviews can be enough to make people think twice about pulling a sickie.

How to take action to reduce absence This will, of course, depend on why there is absence in your business. But those businesses that pay closer attention to the health and wellbeing of their teams, typically see reduced absence rates than those who don’t.

For more information about managing absence, please get in touch with Tracy Madgwick at Crafnant HR on 07899 665506 or email her at tracy@crafnanthr. co.uk. planning and making.

Just before Christmas we had a taster event, where members brought samples of food you could make for Christmas simple swaps to help protect our weight loss.

Our Consultant Debbie is always supporting members - there is no judgement and no criticism. You leave with a personal plan for the week ahead.

Winning the competition has given me

a chance to make the changes I need to achieve my target weight, just two pounds to go. I seem to have so much energy now; I have started a Pilates class and exercise daily. I am so proud of my weight loss since attending Slimming World - it was a magic moment.”

I am so proud of Veronica!

Debbie

New Bus Route for West Buckland School

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est Buckland School is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of a new bus route catering to students in Holsworthy, Langtree, and Great Torrington. We hope more families will now have the opportunity to be part of the West Buckland School family. The new bus route is set to launch on the 15th April.

West Buckland School, a distinguished independent day and boarding school, is situated across 90 acres of scenic North Devon countryside and provides the tranquillity and security in which students thrive. West Buckland School actively encourages student engagement, through a dynamic curriculum characterised by high teacher expectations, personalised learning approaches, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to technological advancement. The school's commitment to creative and enriching education has made it a hub for academic achievement, personal growth, and innovation. This has been most recently exemplified through its accreditation as an IB World School.

With small class sizes, a full programme of sport, music, and drama, plus an incredibly exciting and forwardthinking academic curriculum, the possibilities are endless.

Mr. Stapleton, Head of West Buckland School, expressed his enthusiasm for the new bus route, highlighting, "Ensuring accessibility to quality education is a top

Slimming World Groups at Torrington’s Castle Community Centre Wednesday 9am & 10.30am

Debbie Summers 07796 945 039

Core Rehab, Women’s Health, Massage & Mobility

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am so excited to be starting a clinic at North Devon Chiropractic rooms in Torrington, and Private Health Professionals in Barnstaple.

Some of you will know me from my Hypopressives/Core Rehab courses, MenoCore or my weekly Pilates and Yoga in Torrington and Peters Marland, but there is more to me than group fitness.

I have been an exercise and soft tissue specialist for 25 years and, in this time, I have worked with a variety of people from all ages to help release tight muscles, improve the function of their bodies, and strengthen their core. Over the last 10 years, I have specialised in core dysfunction in women’s health, and I feel there is so much knowledge that needs to be shared to help women suffering with core weakness issues like prolapse, stress or urge incontinence or abdominal separation from childbirth. I am here to let you know things can be done; women just need to know about it.

I will be offering bespoke 1-1 coaching in Hypopressives and Pilates for Core Rehab to work on the issues above, but also for anyone who has had abdominal surgery and is looking to recover and rebuild their core, or suffer with recurring back, hip and shoulder issues due to a weak core. The list is endless, why not get in touch and see how I can help with your core rehab.

Tight muscles? Sports injury? Or looking for stress release? I will also be offering a variety of massage options.

I will be offering an introductory 20% discount for the first 10 bookings. Please contact me to either book an appointment or find out more about how I can help you.

Lizzie priority for us. This new bus route will not only connect more communities to our school but also contribute to a more seamless educational experience for our students."

The carefully planned route aims to serve key areas, facilitating a smooth and efficient commute for students residing in Holsworthy, Langtree, and Great Torrington. With the addition of this route, we aim to enhance West Buckland School's accessibility for families across the region.

Moving forward, the school remains

,dedicated to providing exceptional education and opportunities for personal growth. We believe that easy access to education is crucial for nurturing young minds and shaping future leaders.

For more information about the new bus route and other developments at West Buckland School, visit www. westbuckland.com. We look forward to welcoming more students from Holsworthy, Langtree, and Great Torrington to our vibrant school community.

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From Your County Councillor…

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t has been a busy start to the year at Devon County Council, with this time being taken up predominantly with budget setting for the next financial year. This is especially important for a large organisation like DCC – the turnover of the County Council is over £1.5 billion pounds, with a net revenue budget of over £700 million in the coming financial year – so it is no small, or easy, task to set budgets, especially when you are dealing with millions of pounds of expenditure of public money.

At the time of writing (7th February) the final budget figures are still being finalised and I hope to report in more detail in my next article. However, broadly speaking, although money - as for so many people and organisations in this current economic climate - remains tight, we are not looking at the kind of budget cuts that other local authorities have been forced into.

This is because, despite the huge challenges the last couple of years brought us, with inflation and the war in Ukraine, the County Council was able to tackle its in-year overspends and deliver a balanced budget. For this current financial year due to end, we are again aiming to break even. Some of our neighbouring authorities, like Somerset, have been less fortunate and have not only overspent by millions of pounds, but have had to make deep inroads into their reserves – a finite resource that can only be spent once. Thankfully, we are not in that situation in Devon and, although we cannot be complacent, I am cautiously optimistic about our overall financial position.

Onto local matters, in January I was delighted to visit Dolton Primary School with our local MP Sir Geoffrey Cox, and other local councillors, to congratulate them and the Clinton Primary

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School in Merton on their success in being awarded the prestigious ACE (Association for Character Education) Award. This award recognises the schools’ work to ensure pupils become well-rounded individuals and give them the values and characteristics needed to succeed in adulthood. Less than 100 schools across the UK have been given this award, and it is a testament to our local schools and pupils that they have achieved it.

As ever, a lot of my local work has been dominated by highways related issues. Please do continue to report the potholes and blocked drains or empty grit bins as often as possible! If there are any issues with the reporting or the response, then please do contact me and I will follow it up with my local and Devon-wide highways officials.

The other major development I want to write about this month is the publication of the Devon and Torbay Devolution Deal. The Government has chosen Devon and Torbay as one of only a small number of local authority areas in the country to form a Combined County Authority. This will not require an elected mayor or changes to the current structure of local councils.

The proposed Combined County Authority would be a partnership made up of councillors representing the councils of Devon and Torbay, including the District Councils, and representatives from business and education. Together, this partnership would deliver on a jointly agreed programme working alongside businesses and partner organisations that will draw down more funding for Devon, help stimulate economic growth and support our young people leaving education.

The deal should allow important decisions to be taken locally by people who know their areas best, on priorities that matter to the people of Devon and Torrington Rural such as building more affordable homes, investing in new quality jobs and skills, and improving

public transport.

Initially at least, don’t expect any massive changes overnight. But if this deal does go through it will reset Devon’s, Torridge’s and indeed Torrington Rural’s relationship with central Government and give us access to funding and powers from Whitehall, that hitherto our area has always either missed out on, or been overlooked on.

Highlights of the deal include granting direct control over further and adult education to create up to 50,000 new training and retraining opportunities by 2030, improving the opportunities for our young people leaving school, college and university. £16 million of capital funding will be made available to invest in new green jobs, homes, skills, and business growth, and accelerate Devon and Torbay's transition to a net-zero economy. With our local environmental initiatives here in Torrington Rural, I hope that we will stand to benefit from this.

There should be more powers and funding devolved on housing matters, unlocking funding from national bodies which I hope will mean we have more opportunities to provide housing for local residents and key workers in their communities who are unable to get onto the housing ladder locally.

And there will be more support and funding to improve local public transport across Devon and Torbay. I know here in a rural area we are reliant and dependent upon car travel. But if we can improve our local bus services and introduce new public transport services, that can only be a good thing for us.

So overall, I think this is a positive development for Devon and one which locally, we should stand to benefit from over time. You can read more about the Devolution Deal online at - www. devontorbaydeal.org.uk As ever, if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise with me you can contact me on Facebook facebook.com/ cllrsaywell, ring 07886 446 560 or email andrew.saywell@devon.gov.uk.

St Petroc’s Open Forum - Saturday 23rd March

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t Petroc’s church in Petrockstowe was formally closed as a place of worship at the end of last year. The cost of repair and ongoing maintenance was beyond the means of St Petroc’s congregation and very sadly, time and time again, grant applications were turned down for the restoration of the building, in particular, the roof which is in a poor state of disrepair.

Thanks to the work of a dedicated team of parishioners, Petrockstowe Community Church was set up: the Methodists and Anglicans worshipping together in the chapel.

It is now necessary to come up with a plan for the alternative use of St Petroc’s church building.

To explain this in more detail, and to gather ideas and interest from the local community (and beyond), an open forum is being held at the Baxter Hall, Petrockstowe, Saturday 23rd March at 2pm. Members of Petrockstowe Parish Council, Petrockstowe Community Church, Torridge District Council, the MP and representatives of the Diocese will be present.

All those interested in the future of this beautiful historic building are encouraged to attend.

Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin Torridge District Councillor & Lead Member for Culture & Community Engagement

Little Torrington WI

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ebruary’s meeting was an informative and interesting talk from John Hedge on the Mali Project. As it was Pancake Day, there were pancakes provided by our lady president and her husband.

Book Club is reading ‘Two Women in Rome’, by Elizabeth Bucan, meeting on the third Monday of the month.

Ladies that Lunch are meeting on the third Wednesday of the month, at the Crealock in Littleham.

The Environment Group is taking part in the Citizen Science Water Watch scheme. The first river Torridge dips will be on 29th February. This is a quarterly undertaking, feeding into a worldwide database on the condition of our blue spaces.

Art Class continues over Zoom, featuring a different artist each week; we have studied the works of Eric Ravilious, Samuel Palmer, Sonia Delaunay, with more artists over the coming weeks.

February saw a very grey winter walk at Meeth Nature Reserve, the rain stayed off just long enough.

Throughout the year, the WI organises hands-on craft events for its members. These include a Lino Cut Printing Day, Pottery Day and a Colour Themed Painting Day. If any of the above sounds of interest please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.

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Torrington Baptist Church

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ow - well February was certainly a very busy month for the rescue, the phones just never seemed to stop with requests to take in dogs. It was made even more difficult as Aunty Lynne managed to contract Covid for the second time this year, and so my first thanks has to go to the volunteer team who really stepped up and helped with the dog assessments and meet and greets.

February saw little Poppy, our 7 month old Cavador, go to her new home together with Holly and Ben; two 8 year old Shiranian pups. For anyone who has not heard of these two breeds, a Cavador is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Labrador Retriever, and a Shiranian is a cross between a Shih Tzu and Pomeranian!

Specific cross breeds have become so popular in recent years, but it is important when considering these dogs to really research the breeds in the mix and glean an understanding of their various traits.

Some of these dogs may be small, but they were originally bred for a purpose which will be inherent in them, and so it is vital that these behaviours are fully understood and that you have the time (and often energy) to provide fully for their needs. We are often being asked

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to rehome these dogs simply because they are too lively for the family to cope with, which is hardly surprising if you put two working breeds together. If they are

not provided with enough exercise or stimulation, they will more often than not find their own stimulation, which usually means mischief!

Last month also saw the rescue hold another Volunteer Open Day, which was really well attended and means that we have some new faces on the team. Aunty Lynne is currently updating our website and so you will soon be able to meet the team and put faces to names. While talking about the team, we have once again been nominated for

e will be having a Light Lunch on Tuesdays at 12.30pm until about 2.30pm.

There will be a suggested donation of £2. Anyone looking for lunch and some good company is welcome.

the PetPlan Charity Team of the Year award, and also for the Animal Star awards. These nominations are always so pleasing, as it gives the team a real boost, especially when you remember these are national awards.

It only seems like yesterday that we were talking about Christmas and all the food goodies that were harmful to us woofs, and here we are heading into Easter when there is so much temptation with all the chocolate eggs! It really doesn’t seem fair that we are not able to join in the fun and munch on a little bit of yummy chocolate. There are lots of lovely doggy treat recipes on the internet, and with the school holidays at the end of the month I thought it would be a great idea for a youngsters baking competition.

All you have to do is bake some nice doggy treats, take a picture and post up on our Facebook page to win your woof a lovely doggy Easter hamper. The competition will open on 29th March, and is free to enter so keep an eye out for the event.

Happy baking and back next month with more news.

Woofs & licks Freddie

From Your District Councillors…

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he Community and Resources Committee have adopted the Great Torrington Regeneration Strategy, and TDC will have a key role in delivering its proposals. These range from ambitious, large-scale projects to smaller 'quick-wins' which could be implemented in a short time frame and have a significant impact, including working with Torri Youth on the creation of a youth shelter.

Representatives from South West Water came to Full Council on Monday January 29th, in response to TDC's criticism of their bland responses in planning decisions. The company now seems to be adopting a more proactive approach, and is working with the Plans Committee and with TDC officers in an effort to understand and fulfil its role more effectively. Representatives from SWW will meet with councillors again on March 1st, in a session specifically designed to deal with more specific concerns.

At that meeting we also heard from the Director of Strategy, and from the Director of Estates and Facilities and Our Future Hospital Programme for the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. They confirmed that a new offer had been negotiated for the re-development of the existing hospital site (not for a brand new hospital) which included more money than had previously been agreed. The first phase of this will be largely concerned with improving provision of accommodation for NHS staff.

In recent months, residents have raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in the town centre. These concerns are being followed up by TDC and the Police, but it is really important that residents report anti-social behaviour using the 101 service, and complete a Complaint of Nuisance form (which is available on the TDC website), as this will build up a bank of evidence on which the relevant authorities can act.

Torridge District Council has adopted new Procurement and Social Value Policies. The Procurement Policy makes a commitment to engaging with councillors during the procurement process, which should mean more informed decision-making, greater transparency and better outcomes for all involved. The Social Value Policy recognises that as part of the procurement process, social and environmental factors have value alongside economic considerations: the cheapest isn't always the best value for money for the community.

Cllr Doug Smith, Councillor.smith@torridge.gov.uk, 07970 636 199 Cllr Lauren Bright, Cllr.laurenbright@torridge.gov.uk, 07595 659 310 Cllr Chris Bright, Councillor.bright@torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909

Nourished Drop-in Torrington

Breastfeeding and infant feeding support Thursdays 10-11.30am arly Nourishment CIC invite you to come along with your baby, toddler or preschool child.

There are lots of toys to keep children happy and a range of refreshments.

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

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

How can you help me?

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

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

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Services include: House sitting • Dog walking • Equine care • Emergency cover Contact Isabel on: Tel: 07989 995935 14

Email: isabelspetsitting@gmx.co.uk Visit: www.isabelspetsitting.co.uk

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Alan Woollacott Logs Dry, Seasoned, Barn-Stored 1 pick-up load £115

Also oak posts, beams, lintels & boards available for sale.

T: 07886 465 668

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

Fleur’s Gardening Forum The Vegetable Patch

Torrington RFC

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anuary has given us very mixed fortunes.

League leaders Topsham 2nds came to Donnacroft sensing an easy win, given our previous form. Torrington had other ideas! In a closely-fought game with scores swapping with great regularity, Torrington saw off the interlopers with a remarkable result of 45-38. Shocked and stunned was the reaction from many. Not least Topsham! Tries from Ben Harper, Oli Vowles, Billy Cockwill x2, Ben Sawyer, James Reeves and Vinnie Bott, complemented by the steady boot of Nick Evans, giving us the extras for a remarkable and morale-boosting victory.

With that win giving the squad some good cheer we headed off to Exeter Athletic in the rearranged game. The spectre of the injury list raised its ugly head once again, with three players suffering long term injuries which may well see their season out. Despite that, Torrington gave it their best shot, 41-12 being the final scoreline.

On the back of that we have had to concede our next two matches against Crediton 2nds and Okehampton 2nds. However, the respite might give those other injuries a chance to recover. And hopefully we can see the season out.

Three tough games away to Cullompton, Tiverton and Newton Abbot, all 2nds, see us into mid-March with the final game of the season Sidmouth 2nds at Donnacroft.

Training continues on Thursday evenings at Donnacroft. Get your boots on and join the best rugby team in Torrington. We still know how to party no matter what!

As always the clubhouse is available for hire. Go to TRFC1985@outlook.com to get in touch.

Hopefully there will be more interesting news to report in the next edition. Let’s see what happens.

C’mon Torri!

Respect, Discipline Sportsmanship Teamwork & Enjoyment Mark Waterson

North Devon Choral Society

7.30pm Saturday 6th April Church of St Michael & All Angels, Great Torrington Our Concert on 6th April will be Mozart's Requiem and Haydn's Theresa Mass.

Conducted by John Hobbs with soloists, Elinor Chapman, Rebecca Squire, Mark Hounsell, and Julian Rippon, accompanied by Andrew Millington on Torrington's famous 'Father Willis' organ.

Tickets at £20 are available from Torrington Jewellers, from choir members, and on the door.

See also our website www.northdevonchoral.org.uk.

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Christian Aid Lenten Lunches

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uring Lent the different Christian communities in Great Torrington will provide light lunches consisting of homemade soup with a roll, cheese, marmite, pickles and a cup of tea or coffee for a donation of £4 to help raise funds for Christian Aid, a charity which helps families around the world to overcome poverty and injustice.

Please see below for the dates and venues of all the lunches. All are welcome, so please come along and help support the work of Christian Aid. Fri 1st March 12-1.45pm at St Michael’s Parish Church Fri 8th March 12-1.45pm at the Methodist Church (hosted by the Holy Family) Fri 15th March 12-1.45pm at the Methodist Church (top of Mill Street) Fri 22nd March 12-1.45pm at St Michael’s Parish Church (hosted by the 4 churches) Great Torrington Christian Aid Committee

arch is the time of year when we keen gardeners really start to work on our allotments, veggie patches or containers. If you haven’t yet purchased your seeds or potatoes, onions, etc., then get a move on or you may lose out on favourite varieties. Having said that, you can also pick up quite a few bargains at this time too!

The sun is now higher in the sky, with longer days and the promise of warmth to come (hopefully). It is time to prepare your soil for planting/sowing. If you have not yet manured or composted do so quickly and at the beginning of the month; there is still time for the mulch to break down. However, it may be advisable not to manure where you are about to sow root crops such as carrots and parsnips, because they do not like growing in freshly manured soil (their roots can split and spoil).

If you are sowing directly into the soil, rake over the area really well to expose potential pests to be eaten by birds.

Remove larger stones and any perennial weeds; break up stubborn clods of earth if necessary. For tiny seeds to germinate successfully, the earth should resemble a fine crumble mixture, a ‘tilth’. Firm down lightly with the back of your rake to expel larger air pockets, then you are ready to go.

Devon Sensory Outreach Service

What is the Devon Sensory Outreach Service?

This outreach service is available around the towns and villages of West Devon and Torridge on a regular timetable, offering a free, confidential, and impartial service for people with a hearing and/or sight loss.

Families, carers, neighbours, friends and professionals are also welcome to come and see us.

What does the Sensory Outreach Service offer?

• Trained staff who understand the effects of hearing and sight loss and can provide support and advice.

• Demonstrate and short term loan of a wide range of equipment to help with everyday difficulties including - hearing the doorbell and smoke alarm, listening to the television and managing communication on the telephone.

Lamps, tactile markers, and talking alarm clocks and watches.

• Manufacturers contact details and up to date catalogues. Help to order equipment.

• A wide range of information on hearing and visual impairment and services available locally and nationally.

• Information and referral to other services provided by Devon County Council or sources of other professional help.

• Maintenance of NHS hospital hearing aids. Batteries and retubing.

The service visits The Bickford Centre, South Street EX38 8AA on 1st Wednesday every two months.

Anne Humphreys, Rehab Officer - Hearing Impairment Sensory Team 07966 596881 or 01392 386611 You can purchase soil thermometers to test whether the temperature is at the correct level, a minimum of 7°C - 10°C, but preferably higher. However, the back of your hand is usually sufficient – if the earth feels cold, then don’t sow. To offset this, you can cover the site with black polythene or fleece, which will help retain heat, then test again in a few days.

If you have a greenhouse with raised beds, it will be necessary to completely change the old soil every 3-4 years; you can use the spent compost as a mulch rather than dispose of it. Otherwise,

work it over to remove old roots and if it is dry, give it a really good soaking. You can top up the bed with fresh compost if required.

For outside containers, again, renew the compost or at the very least top up with fresh compost and work it into the older mixture. If necessary, add some fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone.

Remember; try not to sow the same crops in the same position to avoid pest and diseases which may be lurking in the soil.

Fleur

WILLS

POWERS OF ATTORNEY

TRUSTS

INHERITANCE TAX ADVICE 16

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

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

Contact me for a free consultation.

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

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Friendly & Reliable Service

ZENITH HIRE

ZENITH HIRE TORRINGTON 01805 624945 07988 010569

THE MILK CART

The UK’s first solar-powered, mobile vending machine, selling wholesome milk from the Squire family’s farm!

Open & on location 7am-8pm as follows:

Friendly & Reliable Service Est 1995

Monday & Friday - Caddywell Lane Tuesday, Saturday & Sunday - South St Car Park Wednesday - The Pill Car Park, Bideford Thursday - Langtree Village Hall Dispensing whole milk, £1.30 per litre Bottles £1.50 each or bring your own

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Your Council, Working for YOU

New Member Joins Great Torrington Town Council

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t our first meeting of 2024, members welcomed Councillor Jason Isaac to Great Torrington Town Council. Jason has been working on the Regeneration Strategy for Great Torrington since September 2023, and has been a key local representative. He then applied for a Co-opted seat on the Council in December. Members voted unanimously in favour and were keen to welcome Jason, with his broad local knowledge and experience.

Councillor Isaac said “As someone who both lives and works in Great Torrington, I am deeply invested in our town’s success. I’m driven by a strong desire to ensure Torrington doesn’t lag behind neighbouring towns but prospers equally.

My focus includes fostering economic growth, attracting businesses, promoting tourism, and safeguarding our unique natural environment and historic character.

Together with fellow councillors and the Mayor, I am dedicated to advancing Great Torrington’s interests and ensuring our town flourishes alongside our neighbours.”

There are still two vacancies on the town council so if you are interested in becoming a councillor, please contact us on 01805 626135 or admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk to find out more.

Budget 2024/2025 - Commons Allotment Charity Grants & Precept Grants

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he Town Council has allocated its Commons Allotment Grant Funding (£6,600.00) as well as Precept Grant Funding (£22,400.00) for 2024/25. A full list can be viewed on the Town Council’s website.

As per last year, Members decided to keep a small pot of reserve grant funding to be made available during the period 1st April 2024 – 31st March 2025 for adhoc urgent requests for funding.

At the January Town Council meeting Members agreed a budget for 2024/25.

The agreed precept reflects an increase of 3.65% on the Town Council element of council tax bills in Great Torrington for 1st April 2024 – 31st March 2025.

The increase of 3.65% equates to an increase of £3.16 per annum for a Band A property and £3.69 per annum for a Band B property compared to last year. (Town Council element of increase only). Full details of increases for all Bands will be available on the Council’s website in due course.

Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator Fully qualified tradesman

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

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T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

Reporting Antisocial Behaviour

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number of residents have reported to the council that they have witnessed incidents of antisocial behaviour in the town centre recently. If you experience any issues you are concerned about, we have been advised by the police and Torridge District Council that you should use the following reporting tools: CRIME: NON-EMERGENCY CRIME: E.g. assault, anti-social behaviour, damage, harassment, or theft can be reported: • By calling 101 • Online via the online crime reporting form or by emailing 101 at: www.devoncornwall.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/howto-report-a-crime Crime can also be reported ANONYMOUSLY to CrimeStoppers: • By calling: 0800 555 111 • Online at: crimestoppers-uk.org In an EMERGENCY, always dial 999 LICENSING: Concerns with licensing issues can be reported directly to Torridge District Council: • By calling 01237 428700 and asking to be put through to the licensing officer • By email: licensing@torridge.gov.uk • Online at: www.torridge.gov.uk/ licensing-complaints

Annual Parish Meeting - Thursday 21st March 2024

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he Great Torrington Annual Parish Meeting will be held at Great Torrington Town Hall on Thursday 21st March 2024 at 7pm.

This meeting is an opportunity for you to speak directly with your Town Councillors and a chance to have your say on future priorities for the Town Council.

If you are curious to know more about what your local council does, this is an opportunity to find out.

Local councils are the first tier of local government and work towards improving community well-being and providing better services. Their activities fall into three main categories: representing the local community; delivering services to meet local needs; striving to improve quality of life and community well-being. (www.nalc.gov.uk/about-local-councils) At this year’s meeting we are hoping to have invited speakers and displays from community groups. Reports from Full Council and the Council Committees will be available, as well as a report on the Council’s finances.

The Annual Parish Meeting is an opportunity for Registered Electors who live in the parish of Great Torrington, to come along and hear about projects that the Council have been working on this year, and to have their say on things they would like the council to work on in the future.

It would be great to see a good selection of members of the community at this short meeting, refreshments will be available, and we will be seeking your views on priorities for the Town Council going forward.

We would really like to hear the views of registered electors in Great Torrington

Trafalgar Drive

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ou may have noticed that during a very wet and windy week in January, the Town Council Technicians and Chops Tree Services were busy removing the wooden fort in Trafalgar Drive play park. The fort was about 15 years old and it was rotting and becoming dangerous, so Council members decided to remove it before it deteriorated further.

At the Environment Committee meeting in January, Alan Williams gave an update on Jubilee Wood and mentioned that Devon Wildlife Trust had suggested some nesting boxes would be a good addition to the area. With the planned dismantling of the fort, we were able to work with Alan, his team of volunteers and Torrington Men’s Shed, to organise the transfer of some of the better planks from the fort, to be used to make the nesting boxes for Jubilee Wood. This is a great example of coordinated community working to reduce waste and enhance the natural environment.

We are now considering how the space at Trafalgar Drive could be used and what equipment people would like to see there. If you would like to tell us your thoughts, come along to our Annual Parish Meeting on March 21st 2024, 7pm at Great Torrington Town Hall. We will also be gathering views and ideas outside of the Bluecoat Primary School on March 5th.

We are interested to hear from all members of the community who may have ideas about this: if you know of a young person who likes drawing or making models, perhaps they could create a plan or model of their ideas. These could be brought along on March 5th or bring them to the Town Council offices before March 21st. and would ask that you use the space below to respond to the questions asked, and to send in your own questions and suggestions. (Please refrain from using any names of individuals or businesses in your answers or questions. If you would like an individual response, please include contact details).

Your responses can be returned to Great Torrington Town Council offices at Castle Hill (above the library),

the Museum, or Torrington Library.

Alternatively, you can email us your responses. Responses by March 14th If you would like to discuss an issue further, please do contact the office on 01805 626135 or admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Feedback form on page 20

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07949 041 799 Sammoircarpentry@gmail.com

• Kitchens

• Decking/Fencing

• Custom built furniture

• Cladding

• Storage solutions

• Timber repair

• General home improvements • External painting

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Annual Parish Meeting - Thursday 21st March 2024 Your Council would like to know: What do you like most about living in Great Torrington?

What do you think would make living in Great Torrington even better?

HMy question/suggestion for Great Torrington Town Council:

Howe Plate Award

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ach year the Town Council gives an award to the person or persons whom it feels has provided a local public service that has benefitted local people. This could be something that they have done over a number of years, or something that has made a big difference in a short space of time.

The criteria states that the time given is voluntary, and the people benefiting are within the parish of Great Torrington.

If you would like to nominate someone for consideration for this award, please get in touch.

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 or drop-in your nominations to Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA or email to admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk, all nominations to be received by midday on Tuesday 26th March 2024.

We are always delighted to receive letters from our community.

Please send to torrington. crier@gmail.com, post to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or send via Facebook @ torringtoncrier 20

Volunteering - Is it for Me?

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ave you ever wondered how you could get more involved with your community? Have you wanted to help solve a local issue but are short on time? Do you have a special skill/interest you would like to share with others? Are you feeling a little alone or disconnected and would like to widen your social network? There are many reasons why people consider volunteering; the evidence is clear – volunteering can benefit our mental health and bring communities together. So, what is a community? It is a group of people living in the same place. But it is more than that - a sense of community is the condition of sharing or having certain attitudes and interests in common. Some would say having a connection. It is well documented that for positive well-being we need a sense of connection. Libraries are places where connections happen!

Volunteer coordinator with Libraries Unlimited Being new to the district of Torridge, I have had the pleasure of recently visiting the local libraries and have spent time with a few of those who are active in and volunteer in the community. What has been striking is the sense of community in Torrington – a feeling that is tangible.

However, there will be members within the community who are struggling and who may feel isolated – disconnected. This can happen to anyone at any stage of life for a variety of reasons: whatever the reason the unwanted feelings of loneliness are incredibly damaging to our health.

As a volunteer coordinator working for Libraries Unlimited, I am interested in how we can enhance the existing opportunities for people to volunteer within Torrington and the broader Torridge district. I want to support people who would like to be part of a community project they are passionate about. There are already numerous community events and organisations, some of whom are reaching out for volunteers, this is a chance to enhance this offer.

You know your community the best. Libraries are looking for more ways to bring people together both as volunteers to support and run local projects, and to also try and break down the barriers to those who would like to participate and connect.

Voice of volunteers Libraries Unlimited volunteers were recently asked about their experiences and here are a few comments.

‘The library is the centre of our community, and the staff are helpful and supportive to new ideas as well as complementing the traditional.’

‘I like to think I am giving something back for the kindnesses I have received in my life. I'm also an avid reader and I would like to think that there will be someone to bring me books when I can no longer get to the library!’

What and how? Common misconceptions The volunteering landscape is changing. Recent reports show this year more people than ever are interested in volunteering in some way. It does not have to be a long-term commitment – it can be a one-off event. Virtual volunteering is another option which enables people to volunteer from home either online or via phone.

Micro volunteering allows people to give their time and skills in small chunks.

Volunteering projects aim to meet the needs of the community; be flexible and inclusive to enable more people to participate - we are open to all suggestions.

So, if you have any ideas or questions, please contact Sarah Robinson Libraries Unlimited Volunteer Coordinator either by email sarah.robinson@librariesunlimited. org.uk or by phone: 07976584722. Monday-Thursday.

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café

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eaford Village Hall Market & Café is held on the second Saturday of the month 10am1pm. Grab yourself a coffee and a bacon roll, and see what the market has to offer. The stalls vary, but we regularly have: The Body Shop, Usborne Books, Linda's handmade cards, Beaford Ladies Group, local honey, Spencer's Glass, Sam's Household and Stuff and others. Free car park! Follow Beaford Village Hall on Facebook, and follow us to keep up with all of our events!

Parish Church

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his year, the service for the World Day of Prayer is in the Parish Church on Friday March 1st at 2.30pm – the same day and place as the Christian Aid lunch.

Services for Holy Week and Easter: Sunday March 24th: Palm Sunday.

Distribution, Blessing, and Procession of Palms at 10am followed by Parish Eucharist.

Thursday March 28th: Maundy Thursday at 7pm, Institution of the Holy Communion, followed by a Watch of Prayer.

Friday March 29th: Good Friday. 12 noon Stations of the Cross, followed by the Good Friday Liturgy.

Saturday March 30th: Holy Saturday.

8pm Liturgy and First Mass of Easter.

Sunday March 31st: Easter Day. 10am Parish Eucharist.

See our website for details of services on Easter Day at Taddiport, Little Torrington and Frithelstock. (www. stmichaelstorrington.org.uk)

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Adapting to Climate Change over the Last Thousand Years Introduction umanity has faced climate challenges throughout history, from the ice ages of the Pleistocene to the warming trend of the present day. Over the last thousand years, the Earth's climate has undergone significant fluctuations, primarily driven by natural factors such as changes in solar activity and volcanic eruptions.

These changes have led to periods of warming and cooling such as the Medieval Warm Period (1000-1300 CE) and the Little Ice Age (1300-1800 CE).

Adapting to Climate Change We have responded to climate change with a range of adaptations, often tailored to specific regions and environments. These adaptations can be broadly categorized into four areas: 1. Technological innovations: We have developed technologies to cope with changing climate conditions, from improved agricultural practices to advancements in housing and clothing.

For example, the development of irrigation systems allowed for agriculture in arid regions, while the introduction of new crops and livestock breeds increased resilience to drought and variable weather patterns.

2. Social and cultural adaptations: Societies have adapted their social structures and cultural norms to suit their changing environments. For example, nomadic pastoralists have developed strategies for managing herd movements and grazing patterns in response to seasonal variations in rainfall and vegetation. Similarly, coastal communities have adapted their fishing practices and settlements to account for rising sea levels and changing marine ecosystems.

3. Migration and trade: When climate change rendered regions less habitable, we often resorted to migration, seeking more favourable environments for survival. This led to the exchange of knowledge, technologies, and cultural

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practices, further enhancing human adaptability. Additionally, trade networks facilitated the movement of goods and resources, enabling communities to access necessities and adapt to changing conditions.

4. Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices: Indigenous communities have accumulated vast knowledge about their local environments, including their climate patterns, ecosystems, and resource availability. This traditional ecological knowledge has played a crucial role in their ability to adapt to climate change, providing guidance on sustainable resource management, agricultural practices, and disaster preparedness.

Lessons from the Past Examining the history of human adaptation to climate change offers valuable insights for addressing the challenges of the present. However, it is important to recognize that past adaptation strategies were often reactive and not always sustainable.

As we face the accelerating pace of climate change today, proactive and sustainable adaptation measures are essential. These include: 1. Investing in climate science and research: Understanding the complex dynamics of climate change is crucial for developing effective adaptation strategies.

2. Promoting sustainable resource management: Sustainable practices, such as conservation agriculture and renewable energy, can reduce our impact on the environment and enhance resilience to climate change.

3. Building adaptive infrastructure: Infrastructure, such as water management systems and coastal defences, needs to be designed to withstand the impacts of climate change.

4. Empowering local communities: Indigenous communities and local stakeholders possess valuable knowledge and expertise that should be

Two Thriving Businesses in Torrington

integrated into adaptation planning and decision-making.

5. Enhancing international cooperation: Climate change is a global challenge that requires international cooperation and collaboration to share knowledge, resources, and best practices.

In conclusion, our adaptation to climate change over the last millennium demonstrates our ability to adjust to changing environmental conditions.

By learning from the past, adopting proactive and sustainable adaptation strategies, we can mitigate the impact of climate change and build a more resilient future. climatechangingroom@hotmail.com Phil Topham

Tenor Gregory Steward at Buckland Brewer

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ome to see and hear wellknown West Country tenor Gregory Steward in concert at Buckland Brewer Parish Church (St. Mary & St. Benedict) on Friday 19th April at 7.30pm.

A graduate of the Welsh College of Music and Drama, Gregory’s programme will include songs we all know and love, from musicals and light opera. Tickets: £10 adults - children and students free. Tickets can be obtained from Torrington Jewellers or by phoning 01237 451193/452389.

Drinks and nibbles will be available in the interval. Money raised will go to the Buckland Brewer Education Support Fund. The event is being sponsored by West End Precision Ltd.

I

have been shown a newspaper supplement dating from 1983, which features a celebration of the new technological advances at the dairy.

In an article entitled ‘It’s the Micro Chip Creamery’, readers are told that ‘Tomorrow Torrington Creamery’s new processing plant is to be opened by the chairman of the Milk Marketing Board, Sir Stephen Roberts – and it celebrates two anniversaries: ‘First is the centenary of the creamery itself; the second the 50th anniversary of the Milk Marketing Board … and the £5.3 million investment in a new separation area, butter making area and new cold storage for butter is a mark of renewed confidence in the industry’s future, especially in the West Country.

‘The creamery stands on the banks of the River Torridge, famous for its salmon in one of the most beautiful valleys in North Devon, and the centre of a rich milk producing area. It dates back 100 years to the times when a Torrington grocer, Mr Robert Sandford, started wholesaling local dairy produce. From these small beginnings the creamery gradually grew to its present size capable of handling 1.6 million litres of milk a day … and the latest development brings in new technology by the use of microprocessor controls. The milk is collected from 950 farms in North Devon and North Cornwall by a fleet of 40 bulk tankers based at Torrington.’

Another article entitled ‘Butter made by computer’ describes how the whole process of butter and powdered milk production will now be done using the new APV (Automated Pipes and Valves) Accoss control system which is fully automatic in its various programmes, yet control of the plant settings is still done manually.

Who would have believed, after all this investment and modernisation,that in ten years’ time the dairy would be closed down and hundreds of jobs lost?

Another article in the newspaper supplement celebrates the success of

the Torrington Cattle Breeding Centre, established in 1947 by a group of local farmers and the then manager of Torridge Vale Dairies, Tom Sandford (nephew of Robert). The building was up at Hatchmoor, where Kingsmead is now. Until 1969, the Torrington group consisted of the main centre, with sub-centres at Barnstaple, Holsworthy and Lapford. But in that year the Clyst Honiton and Tiverton Junction units were amalgamated with Torrington, forming one of the largest A.I. centres in the country. It had a membership of about 6,000 and covered an area in the South West of some 2,000 square miles.

‘Fifty inseminators are employed, travelling a total of 890,000 miles a year in the course of inseminating some 220,000 cows. Since the early days, the Torrington Centre group has inseminated a total of 4,258,600 cows and heifers. In the peak breeding period of December, January and February, on average 20 farms a day are visited and 40 animals inseminated by each of the technicians, creating a vast amount of record keeping for the 17 clerical staff. In addition, two veterinary officers, two livestock officers,

two fieldmen and six stockmen, who tend the 75 bulls, are employed, together with a manager and assistant manager.

‘Artificial Insemination has revolutionised cattle breeding and has enabled any farmer, no matter the size of his herd, to use the top production sires available in the country at a reasonable cost. Average milk production per cow has risen from 3,320 litres in 1959 to the present figure of 4,745 litres.’

The Torrington Cattle Breeding Centre closed in 1994.

Moira Brewer

Big Breakfast in aid of North Devon Hospice

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angtree Parish Hall, Sunday 3rd March 9.15am-12.15pm. Cereal, juice, fruit, full English, toast and tea / coffee, (vegetarian option available).

Bookings preferred especially for groups of four or more with preferred time. Suggested donation £10.

To book call 01805 601602 or email hall@langtreeparishhall.co.uk.

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Great Torrington Water Forum

Springtime Art Exhibit at RHS Rosemoor

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s a local Devon artist, I am inspired by our beautiful countryside and spectacular, rugged coast. The changing seasons and all the glorious colours seen in our gardens and surrounding landscape have provided me with plenty of inspiration over the years!

This year RHS Rosemoor has selected me to be one of their guest exhibitors.

Having visited and enjoyed the Rosemoor gardens on numerous occasions, and also its partner Clovelly Court Gardens, I have always enjoyed being close to nature. Walking around the gardens and woodland and seeing the variety of flora is such a delight, and I love to bring these colours, patterns, shapes and textures into my paintings. The 50 or so paintings on display will show how nature has inspired me: from landscapes to florals and beyond.

Creating in my studio brings me joy and calm. It is this sense that you will see in the paintings and can also experience for yourself when visiting the exhibit.

You are welcome to attend anytime during RHS Rosemoor open hours. I will be happy to meet you on weekends between 2-4pm when I will be in attendance.

Nature: Through My Eyes, an art exhibit by Connie Vickers Peter Buckley Learning Centre Exhibition Room From Good Friday 29th March through to Sunday 28th April 2024 FREE entry to exhibition

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n recent news, water companies in England and Wales have proposed a substantial increase in water bills to fund infrastructure upgrades and reduce sewage discharges. This comes at a time when the cost of living is still causing many of us big headaches.

Being efficient in how we use water is essential in order to reduce the impact of the cost increases. ‘Saving’ water is something we have highlighted in the past and continue to do so.

Understanding how water bills are calculated is crucial. In the United Kingdom, water bills are typically calculated based on several key factors, and comprehending these elements can shed light on why costs may be on the rise. We will be explaining how water bills are calculated, and information on if a water meter will help, on our Facebook page. Anyone struggling with paying water bills should contact SWW (www. southwestwater.co.uk) who will help you.

Climate change is, as expected, leading to an increase in extreme weather, including in the UK. The latest State of the UK Climate report, published in July 2023 and providing a look back at 2022, highlighted a year of extremes.

2022 was shown to be the warmest

year in the UK series from 1884, 0.9°C above the 1991–2020 average, and included the first time 40°C was recorded in the UK. Earlier this month, the Met Office also announced that 2023 was provisionally the second warmest year on record for the UK. Records also show that the UK is getting wetter, and heavy rainfall exceeding 50mm has become more frequent in the autumn. A warmer, moister atmosphere increases the capacity for deluges of rain, which can result in serious flooding, damaging property and crops. We need to do more as National and Local Government and individuals to try and adapt to the new conditions by managing our water in order to provide sustainable

TORRINGTON ARMS Open daily from 11am

Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm Takeaways Available Function Room available for all occasions SKY SPORTS • BT SPORT • RACING CHANNELS • POOL DARTS • LIVE MUSIC • QUIZ NIGHTS

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For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook

water management practices, such as water neutral developments, rainwater harvesting and reducing water waste.

Further to Moira Brewers great article on the Rolle Fountain in last month’s Crier, and our request for information on Great Torrington’s wells, we too are looking at a possible refurbishment project. We believe the well at Windy Cross can be brought back into working condition and are currently assessing what can be done. Anyone interested in joining the team please contact us. gtwaterforum@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ greattorringtonwaterforum

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The Fire – Part 2

Judith Jones is a member of the Torrington Writer’s group and recently wrote this story in response to the prompt ‘Fire’.

‘That’s a bit of a monstrosity,’ Lottie peered at the photo, ‘says a prime example of Modern English Renaissance architecture. Those turrets and fancy bits over the windows are a flippin eyesore.’

‘Like Marmite,’ Brenda said, ‘suppose you love the style or hate it. I rather like it. Lots of that yellow brick in the town.

They were sat at a table in Torrington library, the librarian had found a book explaining the history of Sydney House and the terrible fire that reduced it to a charred ruin.

‘You’ve seen the hidden garden?’ she’d said when they’d come in, ‘a lovely tribute to the children.’

‘That sculpture made me quite sad and I don’t even know them,’ Brenda had said.

‘Affected the town very badly at the time.

My gran remembered it happening. Said the flames lit up the night sky, could be seen for miles,’ the librarian had beckoned them to follow her, ‘they took in three children till their parents could come and get them. Two of them only had nightdresses on. Imagine those poor little mites in all that cold, not even shoes most of them. There weren’t many spare clothes either with it being war time.’

‘Where was Sydney House?’ Lottie had asked.

Where the memorial is, its gardens are the carpark. Waste land for years, house demolished and the materials largely recycled. Load of the bricks were used to build an outside privy,’ the librarian extracted a small book from the shelf, ‘cost ten shillings for 750 bricks, imagine that. Says it’s still standing. Have a read, tells you the whole history. Quite harrowing in places.’

‘She was right,’ Brenda closed the book, ‘those poor children suffocated by the smoke, yet the water was freezing it was so cold.

‘I need some lunch then a mooch. Feel quite rung out by it all,’ Lottie put the

book back on the shelf, ‘surprising what you find when you least expect it.’

‘Miss Chandler you can’t go up there, it’s not safe, look at your hands,’ the fireman pulled her away from the burning staircase, ‘we’ve got the long ladders to the top floor, Fred’s going up to get in through a window. He’s got Mr Kelly with him. They’ll find the lads, bring ‘em down.’

Matron nodded, turning away her shoulders sagging under the weight of her worry. Where were Ronald, Geoffrey, David, Peter and Tom? ‘Ivy?’ a hand touched her shoulder, ‘three have been found but not Peter or Tom.’ Squaring her shoulders, matron followed the voice back out into the cold to see three firemen carrying three small figures. Head bowed she took a deep breath, now to find the words to tell her staff and the children. Behind her the flames leapt, higher and higher, timbers burned and debris rained down on those below battling with the blaze. Tomorrow would come and Sydney House would loom out of the mists, blackened and twisted, roofless and destroyed, never to be rebuilt. Its last horrors revealed around midday, one beneath many tons of rubble the other close to the front door.

Peter and Tom. Four days later, seven year old Tom Shute was laid to rest, never to sing ‘You Are My Sunshine’ again, borne on the shoulders of those who fought to save him.

The water froze as it fell, so cold that February night.

They fought the heat, the flames, the terror and were beaten back a force greater than the will of those who survived.

They do not forget us though, the ones who went forward across the years.

We are remembered, our names said aloud and proud.

If you listen we are still there, in the garden, playing.

‘You just here for the day then?’ the old gent leaning on his spade in the hidden

garden smiled at the two women. He’d seen them come in and sit near the statue of the little boy reading. Watched them smooth the statue’s head, fingers outlining his small face.

Lottie nodded and remarked on how well kept the gardens were, ‘we had lunch earlier, in that old pub but just had to come back in one more time. It’s such a lovely place.’

‘Group of us look after it. Took a while to get the memorial sorted, many of the survivors were involved and lots from the town. Quite a party when the big stone was brought in. Whole town came out, half of ‘em dressed up like they was from the 1940s. Treat it was to see ’em and the town band. We know how to party in Torrington. Did those little lads proud, lot of their families came back too.

Did ’em proud,’ the old gent smiled, ‘well must get on, weeds wait for no one.’

‘You know that was probably one of the best days out we’ve had. Quite unexpected,’ Brenda slid the key into the ignition, ‘what a wonderful place to live.

We should come back again soon, see some more of it. Try out that little arts centre next time.

‘Not sure it was the best day finding out about that fire,’ Lottie leaned back and closed her eyes, ‘so very sad but I’m glad we found out about it all.’

‘The scones were worth the drive,’ Brenda reversed out of the space, ‘perhaps bring the grand kids, plenty of things to do and places to stay. They’d like the museum. Just think those little boys are the same age as our lot.

Doesn’t bear thinking about.’

Lottie patted her hand, ‘but they’ve never been forgotten and just think how well some of those survived got on, one Deputy Major of Plymouth, a few nurses, and a deep sea diver.’

Nodding Brenda drove out past the memorial stone and half waved to it, ‘bye boys, we’ll come back again.’

Judith Jones

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GREAT TORRINGTON GOLF CLUB Open Day Sunday 7th April 2024, 1-3pm Thinking of joining or changing golf club?

Come to our Open Day, look around & play a little golf to test our course!

Friendly, relaxed club with good all-year facilities for all ages & levels • Social or competitive play • Academy for those new to golf, includes lessons & support Special promotional rates for the Open Day only If you’d like a chat please contact: Great Torrington Golf Club, Weare Trees, EX38 7EZ 01805 622229, email: info@torringtongolfclub.co. uk Follow us on Facebook

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive receive a 1 hour 1-1 wellbeing session with Samantha. Please send completed crossword with contact details to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com. The winner for last issue is David Todd. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 14th March and the solution and winner will be in the April issue.

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Are you prepared to embrace that rejuvenating sensation of mental and emotional clarity that comes with springtime? As we welcome the arrival of spring, our focus naturally shifts to decluttering our physical spaces, tending to our gardens, observing nature's renewal. Perhaps it's also an opportune moment to embark on a mental and emotional spring cleaning journey – to prioritise our mental well-being, purge emotional clutter, and alleviate negative thoughts and stress.

Carve out time for yourself: Take a moment to schedule dedicated ‘time out’ in your diary be it an hour, an afternoon, a full day, or even an entire weekend.

Prioritising self-care is crucial for nurturing a clear and revitalised mind. Compile a list of self-care activities and integrate them into your daily/weekly routine.

Simplify your life: Feeling overwhelmed often stems from attempting to juggle too many responsibilities. Simplify wherever feasible by breaking tasks into manageable segments. Fostering a sense of accomplishment with each completed task and triggering the release of dopamine ‘feel-good’ hormone. Assess your current state by asking yourself how you feel and identify areas for potential change.

If you find yourself in need of support to declutter your mind, the book a complimentary 30-minute nurturing call.

Samantha Hardwick – Emotional & Physical Wellbeing www.samanthahardwick.com

Tarka Valley Railway

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anuary is behind us and, as mentioned in last month’s news, the final 60 foot panel has been laid to take us just short of the overbridge as shown in the photo courtesy of Phil Tarry.

When Phase 2 starts, the trail will be diverted to the right under the bridge - at the moment the new panel is too close to the side of the bridge; nothing will pass under the bridge at present. It will all be corrected when we commence Phase 2.

On February 3rd we held our AGM at Castle Hill Community Centre, when after the formal proceedings an update was given regarding current and future projects, including costings for Phase 2. The second part of the meeting was given by Mike Teare, chair of the Bideford and River Torridge Heritage Group and The Way of the Wharves Project. It was a fascinating talk on the history of our area and the group’s plans for the way forward. TVR is part of this group, and we look forward to working with them to boost preservation and heritage in the area.

A reminder that on Saturday March 30th from 10am-4pm, we will be having our ‘Easter Eggpress’ where there will be passenger rides on our 143, with stalls and games throughout the day. For every child ticket purchased, there will be a free chocolate egg plus a chance to meet the Easter Bunny.

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

Robert Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

Property Marketplace Tips Moving home with your pets Moving is often stressful for everyone involved and, unfortunately, we can’t exactly tell our pets what’s going on.

It’s important to get things in order beforehand, so you and your pets can make a smooth and easy transition to your dream home. Here are some tips to help you along the way…

Get advice from your vet Seeking professional advice will help to ensure that your pet is getting everything they need during an inevitably stressful time. Having strangers enter the house during viewings, watching furniture get moved around and boxed up, and the transition to a new environment can all become very overwhelming.

Your vet can help you decide the best plan of action for your situation. This is extra important if your pet is older and may not adjust well to new surroundings.

Staying with friends and family If a friend or family member is willing to house your pet temporarily, you may be able to save yourself a lot of time and stress. Having someone to take over for

a short while, means that the animal can receive the care and attention that they need while you’re busy moving.

However, it’s important to carefully consider where your pet takes their holiday. You should only hand your pet over to someone confident and comfortable with taking care of them.

It should also be noted that your pet will need to adjust to living somewhere temporarily, and then they will need to adjust again to their new home – this could cause a lot of stress if not handled well. Make sure they’re comfortable at their temporary home, they know the person well, and that they aren’t left there for longer than necessary.

Handling viewings Viewings can be tricky with pets in the house, even if your particular pet is friendly and easy to clean up after.

It’s best to keep your pets away during viewings and bring them home when buyers have left. Whether this means going for a walk, visiting a friend or family member, or even spending the day at a pet day care centre, most buyers will

prefer to visit a vacant home – and this could be the thing that snatches you a sale.

Having a pet present during viewings can also leave your agent in a difficult situation. Even the most placid of pets can become territorial and aggressive in situations they aren’t used to. However, if removing your pet from the property is not a viable option, it’s important to let your estate agent know as soon as possible so you can decide on a good plan of action.

Repairing pet damage Pet damage can be a huge turn-off for many buyers, and cats and dogs in particular can leave their mark on expensive areas of the home such as carpets, walls, and fencing. Before putting your home on the market, take some time to assess and repair any damages your pets have left behind.

Focus on dispelling odour odours and clearing away stains, as these two issues are the most noticeable.

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

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Abbeyfield

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ur spring fund raising coffee morning is on March 15th from 10.30am-12pm, at Glen Tor, Villa Road. Entrance is £2 to include tea or coffee and a cake. There will be the usual raffle and an Easter Egg tombola, cake stall, and a chance to win an Easter cake. You can meet staff, residents, and volunteers, with the opportunity to find out more about Abbeyfield.

If you would like to come in one day for a two-course lunch at a very reasonable price, please contact our House Manager to book, on 01805 623605 We currently have a ground floor one-bedroom flat available, suitable for a couple to live in and another vacant en-suite downstairs room. Our House Manager is always happy to talk to anyone interested in accommodation, either for themselves or a loved one.

Please call her on the number above.

Easter Bingo

Thursday 28th March Burrington Parish Hall Eyes down 7.30pm

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February events at the plough National Lottery Funding to Help The Plough’s Community Work

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e are delighted to announce that we have been awarded £19k by the National Lottery Community Fund, which will enable us to run four weekly workshops for adults with additional needs and their carers for the next two years! This means we can continue to offer our very popular ‘Motion Dance’ sessions along with our ‘Plough Prism’ drama workshops. As well as these regular groups we can extend our offer to groups from Madewell CIC and pupils from Pathfields School.

The lottery was also able to contribute to our larger fundraising plan which will see our dressing rooms become fully wheelchair accessible.

During the same week, we learned that we were receiving £20k from the Rural Priority Fund, administered by Torridge District Council that will help us with the repairs and upkeep of our building. This is vital work and we'd like to say a big thank you to Torridge District Council for making it happen.

Our March-June Brochure is here!

If you don’t already have one, we hope you can pop in to pick one up! It’s full of exciting news of upcoming live events, workshops, films, exhibitions, and more! You can also view and/or download a digital version from our website: theploughartscentre.org.uk.

We hope to see you very soon.

Your Plough Arts Centre

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

01/03 7:30pm Film: Some Like It Hot 02/03 10am ThePlough@StAnne's, Workshop Visual Arts: Square Work Tea & Biscuit Tray Willow Weaving 10am ThePlough@StAnne's, Workshop Visual Arts: Monet for Nothing! Acrylics 8pm The Plough Arts Centre Music: Show of Hands 04/03 7pm The Plough Arts Centre Workshop Visual Arts: Pattern Cutting with Toni Alexander 7pm The Plough Arts Centre Workshop Bioform Dance Workshop with Miranda Jankowska 7:30pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Ploughcappella 06/03 2:30pm & 7.30pm Film: Your Fat Friend (15) 07/03 2pm Film: The Zone of Interest (12A) 7pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Workshop Visual Arts: Create your own Natural Cleaning Products 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Plough Storytelling Circle 7:30pm Film: The Zone of Interest (12A) 08/03 7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre Miracle Theatre of Cornwall presents ‘Hell’s Bells’ 8:00pm Music: Eddie Gripper at ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 09/03 10:30am Meeting Room at The Plough Plough Writers

7:30pm Film: Bob Marley One Love (15) 11/03 7:30pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Ploughcappella 13/03 2pm Film: Bob Marley One Love (15) 7pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Workshop Visual Arts: Spring Candle Making 7:30pm Film: Poor Things (18) 14/03 2pm Film: Poor Things (18) 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Town Centre Haunted History Tour 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Town Centre Haunted History Tour 8pm Film: Chaplin, Keaton & Harold Lloyd 15/03 2pm Film: Next Goal Wins (12A) 8pm The Plough Arts Centre Comedy: Paul Foot: Dissolve 16/03 10:30am ThePlough@StAnne's, Workshop - Visual Arts: Spring has Sprung: Contact and Wood Cut Printmaking 7:30pm Film: Next Goal Wins (12A) 8pm The Plough@StAnne's Music: James Oliver Band 18/03 7pm Dance Studio at The Plough Arts Centre Bioform Dance Workshop with Miranda Jankowska 7:30pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Ploughcappella 20/03 12:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, North

Devon Poetry Stanza 2pm Film: Someone’s Daughter, Someone’s Son (15) 7:30pm Film: Someone’s Daughter, Someone’s Son (15) 22/03 2pm Film: The Great Escaper (12A) 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Bygone Brothel Tour 23/03 8pm The Plough Arts Centre Music: John Etheridge (solo) & special guest Kit Holmes 25/03 10:30am & 1pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Theatre: Above Bounds Theatre presents 'Brilliant Bee' 26/03 10:30am & 1pm ThePlough@StAnne's Above Bounds Theatre presents 'Brilliant Bee' 27/03 2pm Film: Oppenheimer (15) 28/03 2pm Film: Where Is Heaven? (cert tbc) 7pm ThePlough@StAnne's, The Magick of The Viking Runes (part 2) 30/03 10am ThePlough@StAnne's, Fruit Basket Willow Weaving Workshop 10am ThePlough@StAnne's, Visual Arts: Moon Gazing Hare Terracotta Sculpture Workshop 7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Murder & Macabre Haunted History Tour 8pm The Plough Arts Centre Fleetwood Mac Songbook

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TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB

Dafforn & Son

Families Welcome

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

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

Independent Family Owned Funeral Directors Torrington

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Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

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ur social is gathering pace, with new and prospective members joining us for a cuppa and a bite to eat on Collection Day, between about 12-1.30pm. If you'd like to find out more, this is an ideal way to do it, socially and in person. You'll find the dates on our website and we'd love to see you. We're starting to offer short informal talks/ discussions/demonstrations on subjects of interest to members and their guests.

Our little market is very popular, offering handmade organic ferments such a kimchi, sauerkraut and a range of other delicious krauts, fermented chutney, mustard, preserved lemons and cashew nut cheese. We also offer free kinesiology testing, for a range of liquid probiotics that really benefit people's health. There is also local unpasteurized honey for sale, plus handmade snacks, treats and sometimes some eggs.

Wellbeing Tip: The benefits of probiotics are now much more widely known and accepted, but what is not so widely appreciated is the difference between probiotic capsules on one hand and live fermented foods and live liquid probiotics on the other.

Taking probiotic capsules can make a contribution to improving your gut microflora, but it's important to understand that these capsules contain a very limited variety of beneficial strains compared to nature, and that the contents are produced in artificial laboratory conditions.

Conversely, liquid, naturally sourced and fermented probiotics contain a

much wider range of beneficial strains in high quantities, plus – and this makes a significant difference – many other strains in smaller quantities.

Liquid, naturally sourced probiotics are much more easily utilized by our bodies and, of course, they don't contain fillers, capsule shells or artificial additives of any sort – they are simply and purely as nature intended.

Likewise, shop bought fermented food is pasteurized, which means that the fermentation process has been halted using heat to kill the active microbes. The reason for pasteurizing is to standarize the product and avoids the 'nuisance factor' of the product continuing to ferment. Nutritionally these products have some value, as the fermentation process will have enhanced their nutritional value, but they will be devoid of beneficial microbes.

Handmade organic ferments are also unpasteurized, meaning they contain a wealth of beneficial microbes and depths of beautiful flavours! No two are exactly the same and we find people love them more and more. The reason for this is as we start eating them, our microbiome starts to gradually become more varied and balanced. There's a very strong connection between our microbiome and our brain, our moods and the foods we desire. So as our microbiome changes for the better with fermented foods,

Torridge Walk & Talk

the good guys get the upper hand and shout loudly for more of those delicious ferments, so they can make more good guys and more nutritional variety for us! So although we might not have liked these foods so much to begin with, we actually end up liking them more as time goes on, plus our overall wellbeing improves all round.

Two other interesting benefits of lacto fermentation are that the microbes pre-digest food for us, making it much easier to digest and absorb and, by this process, microbes actually produce trace elements we need or are lacking in – how magical is that? Another benefit is that initial studies have shown that the fermentation process neutralizes toxic agricultural chemicals and there's a call for more studies.

If you'd like to find out more, feel free to come along on our Collection Day and Social, you'll find the dates for the year on our website.

Mary

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

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

Full details on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk or call Steve 01237 421528.

Torrington Methodist Church

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

Sunday Worship 10.30am at Church.

Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom email sarahrichards185@gmail.com to request the link. Join us for our Bacon Butty Coffee Morning 10am-12pm, third Saturday every month.

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

Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.

Upcoming grocery final order dates: 20th March, 17th April How do I join? Via our Facebook page or website, full info on the website!

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

Torrington Baptist Church

S

ervices on Sunday mornings at 10.30am followed by refreshments.

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

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

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

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

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PeaceCanal Within Pale Milk Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rolle & Northern Devon I stammered.

Rev “Looks Stephenabandoned?”

Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Waterways Guided Walk “Let’s hopeSociety so.” Blake posed.

Morgan The new season's programme The “We Church of to Jesus Christ of Latter of have make sure…”

Sunday walks starts on 26th Day Saintsafternoon meet @ Bideford College May with aBideford, visit to EX39 the site of the Abbotsham I led theRd, way through the 3AR deep mud Inclined Plane at Ridd.

This is the Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50amthat was like wading through a swamp place where the Rolle Canal 1pm of German soldiers trying to steal your was'Hitchcock' raised up(12A) about3pm 43 feet Film @ The boots, approaching the half standing from the valley floor near Plough structure of a7pm house.

Weare to a Film 'Argo'Giffard (15) @level The Plough Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall in the side of the valley “I’llcould take be front, you take back,” I 8pm that maintained

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

WW1, crate Year turned 9snack pupils have been paleSurgery liquid peace sloshing against mushroom upside down flowering at the timeGeoffrey of the walk. includes healthy & drink for Advice with Cox MP. the Price developing their own with a 10cm x 10cm hole cut increative one of The start of the at Annery the children & hot drink for adults for tin. an appointment ring walk 01237is459001 or Leach 01769 685.pictures silence drowned as Rebecca the writing short sides and560 a weight on top)and Kiln,Atoloud on the Weare Giffardmyroad skills using email tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox orears via by should stop any local cats Halfpenny Bridge, at 2.30pm onof which I slurped away.

The peaceful sound website www.geoffreycox.co.uk film clips as prompts.

We set 18th Coffee Morning in aidThe of Wembworthy distance is little Thursday enjoying a free meal.

Cat biscuits (not a Sunday 26th May. relief. them the challenge of writing Michael's Church Church Chulmleigh Town Hall 9-11am overI snatched a@mile but plenty to look at Stfish flavour)of are anSaid idealMass foodbased to puton in a mywith billy can from its pouch piece description cakes, produce, drawmilk prizes in St James discuss is likely a 10.30am the feeding stationChapel but please never andand poured the intoappreciated it to liketake a white compelling extract from the film Major Walker MCofCeremony War @ The couple hours.

A@donation of Music breadGaga: and Rock milk Anthems as it can8pm make them river; the sensation of peace soothed 1917.

Memorial 11am (see article) Plough £2again. to the Rolle Canal seriously ill. me once Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30pm details Society's funds will be If you find a hedgehog out during the says the ridge to Friday Doug “This 01805map 622648 orjust Berylover 01805 19th and unsteady or you’re appreciated and helps day, wobbling 1917 Auve,” Blake muttered as he strolled 624294 Michael's Church Saidthat Mass 8.30am enable the Society to keep Stworried Tomabout Blake one entered thevisits mustyyour old whispered, up the to the house andFilm towards me. all the way walking inland to 'Great Expectations' 7.30pm @ in St James Chapel volunteer work going to garden, place the hedgehog high house and8pm shook his Plough headininadisbelief.

Monday High Bickington Cinema tip toeing my way through the barely head weir 8th at Rosemoor.

Gig 'Zion Train' @ The promote and maintain features of sided with a hot water ransacked bottle The box whole house had been Historical Society AGM & Talksseen 'Beam Coope Boyes & Simpson 8pm @ Many people will have hung door.

The door groaned.

The floor Music The hum of planes flew back into the Rolle Canal.

Future walks this year wrapped in a towel and cover with the House & Quay' &weak John and Oatway Plough as from top 20th to bottom. He trod on a child’s this site on previous walks but this yearlayThe th though a th th Saturday boards were rotten.

Glass earshot bee wasand buzzing June, 28 July 18 will be 16 cloth that you used to pick it up with Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @overa doll asFox he stealthily moved through the there have developments The smashed all been over the floor as though around For my head. walkedifoutside to Music August. furtherI details required: then Bob please 8pm ring @ any ofPlough the following Methodist Church Sunday 14th the winter that will make it well worth a house, searching each roomtoone by hand grenade had shattered the heart of email: peer on the action. hassallc@ymail.com or phone who will be more than willing give Film 'Wreckvisit. it Ralph' 2pm @ The Methodist Church 10.30am repeat The(PG) Heritage Lottery Torrington Sunday 21st one.

Through a hole in a wall he spied a the house.

“Our friends from earlier!?”

Tom 01237 you'llMrs probably have advice or take to one of the local vets.

Plough Peter425357, Whattonbut 6.30pm Vivienne funded ‘Life's Journey’ project has Rev St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Mass beam of sunlight streaming in through a “Anything?” mentioned, to leave a message.  British Hedgehog Preservation Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough Sunday Club in dashes upper room produced a new pathway from the Sheriff“Yeah,” I said, window, causing of light to dance I muttered back.

ChrisMass Hassall Ignatius Film“Nothing...”

'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough Society 01584 890801 St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Torrington Methodist Church 10.30 Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the all throughout the room.

He brought his My heart skipped a beat as a little toy Ignatius “Dogfight!”

I announced, my hands Rev Sunday Club in upper room  North Devon Hedgehog Rescue Ken Morgan 5pm Circuit Service @ Inclined Plane where two illustrated head 816989 up and or looked through the box-like doll struck9th the corner of my eye, like a Film shaking with excitement and fear.

Tuesday 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm & 7pm @ Our Hedgehogs Need You!!!!!!

01271 07964 522 359 Parkham information boards have been installed frame.

He flinched and reached for his Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough The Plough lone girl seeking shelter.

You couldAwareness hear the machine AnniRamblers Nicholls afternoon walk Hedgehog Week isgun on its Torridge to 'Hitchcock' describe the saltmarsh habitat by rifle when the silhouette of a man stalked Film“Any (12A) 8pm @ The grub?”

Blake questioned bullets hitting the German plane, a 2 v 1, way but why wait until then to 01237 451820 Torridge Hedgehog Rescue the Torridge and the workings and Plough Monday 15th in from the side of the frame.

His eyes Film 'Les Miserables' (12A) 3pm @ The hungrily.

BOOM! help?

As spring is here (working with ND Hedgehog purpose of the Rolle Canal. It is now for Fun 7.30-8.30pm @ High were dazzled by the sunlight and took and“They hopefully the weather “No nothing, nothing at all!”

I sighed inSinging got him!”

I applauded as the Plough Rescue) Angela Hodge possible to gain a far better Wednesday 10th Bickington Community Centre Film seconds 'I Give it ato Year' (15)to7pm Thethen he adjust the@ light; improves our spiky friends 07884 486 509 disappointment, as the silhouette of Tom enemy plane came crashing down over of Said theMass lay-out and Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5's Stunderstanding Michael's Church 8.30am Plough spotted that the silhouette was merely will be up and about again.

Please look out for events in entered through the contrasting front the other side of the ridge, but then, all the inclined plane boat lift 9.30-10.30am in workings St James of Chapel @extremely Bickingtontough Community It’s been an his partner Will Scofield checking the your area during Hedgehog door. of a sudden the plane came sliding over than was previously the case.

The Torrington W.I @ Methodist Hall 7pm Centre th th Monday 22nd winter for them.

The yard.

He was amazed by the way the to 11 May. Awareness Week 5 the hill into the barn burning in flames. upper basin of 8pm the canal the top of Film 'I Wish' (PG) @ TheatPlough Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5's musty changeable and wet weather light contrasted to the dark, damp, the‘The incline been cleared of scrub barn’has I thought to myself; there Tuesday We panicked and grabbed the pilot, 16th 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington has made ithim difficultofforthe many of insides of the house. sufficiently to11th enable inthe outline of its 'Hearing Pets As Therapy might be something there?

Anything dragging cockpit Thursday for You' out Social group for theand Centre them tofrom find the foodaircraft. or hibernate properly Community He made his way outside and spoke beChurch clearly seen, and the way Pets As Therapy is a8pm at all. Itowaded once again through the hard away of hearing.

Every 3rd Tues 2pm @ Stbanks Michael's Said Mass Alistair McGowan @ The over the past months so many are now Comedy the subsequently cutbaying through to his charity partner founded in short sharp words. national Centre 01271 373236 10.30am St James followed by out The Bickford mudrailway tointhe barn – Chapel The cows “We should putcall him out of his Plough weakClub and needBickington help. If you know that the northern destroying clear. theinbarn.”

Walsingham in vicarage in “All 1983.

It isCheck unique Gallery Gig The Pete Canter Trio He was in the fieldcell – end, then I clicked! the top of Youth misery!..”High I proclaimed. Community you had a resident in your Memory CafeMilk.

10.30-12.30pm The now Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pmhedgehog theCows… incline.

This canal @ basin that it provides therapeutic good friends with Will, but in pressured 8.18pm @ The Plough Ewan Johns, Year 9 area last year don’t forget Badminton Clubplease 7pm Juniors 8pm to put Plough supports an increasing population of visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing situations like this he never showed I saw the bucket on the floor. I a bowl of water and some food out for Tuesday Adults @ Bickington Community Centre Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Early Purple Orchid andsound Twayblade (a andmuch care homes, specialwith needs 23rd emotion, especially such a would never forget the of the lid them, placing it inside a feeding station Youth pairs competition @ Torrington Beast 2pm @ The Ploughorchid) green flowered which, Cribbage schools and a variety of other venues Club for 11+ 5-7pm @High mammoth task in hand. They had to slapping the ground and the noise of the Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Arms 8pm Bickington Community Centre Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm Plough note early start for long film Adults @ High Bickington Community CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Centre

deliver a crucial message of warning to the Manchester regiment by tomorrow noon.

“Oi, over ere,” shouted Will. He carefully made his way over to the barn, rifle still raised.

“Look, fresh milk. Someone’s been here recently.”

The milk was like a lighthouse of pure white in a sea of brown mud and grassy fields.

In the distance he could hear the droning of two planes, high above. They were twisting and turning in arduous battle, but it seemed like the Brit was coming out on top. They rocketed past the farm and banked hard over the other side of a hill. Just as they turned back around to head towards us, the German plane burst into a ball of fire and plummeted towards the ground at an alarming rate.

Tom’s heart was beating hard and fast.

The plane hit the ground 200 metres away and bounced back up into the air. It was soaring straight for the barn they were sheltering in! He turned and sprinted out the door as fast he could. He was thrown off his feet and landed face down in the mud. He looked behind him slowly and saw hot red flames licking up the side of the German aircraft. He passed out.

Leo Gilbert, Year 9

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

Last month we published some poems written

by Year 9 pupils. One of them was accidentally published with an incorrect author name – apologies to Evie Hill! Here is the poem reprinted, with the correct author name this time.

“Fix Bayonets!”

“Fix Bayonets!”

The fumbling of blades and guns desperate to Connect.

Then silence.

The officer revealed a time piece Pulled from his pocket, Tick, Tick, Tick.

Unsettling to all, We heard a muffled fumble as he reached Back to grab his whistle The object we all dreaded.

We turned, Hands on ladders, we waited.

A sharp breath in and a shrill screech, I froze.

I couldn’t I didn’t want to.

Fightin for our country?

More like fighting for our lives.

A shove from behind forced me up towards the End… We were over the top.

Evie Hill, Year 9

Bayonet Charge

The loud ruffling of bullets in fear, Rain glinting on the blades of our shaking bayonets.

As the time passes, we stay standing here, We think, regretting our debts.

All the regrets plague our minds.

We were taught to keep our honour and dignity in all.

How could we ignore them being so kind?

In our minds we regret answering this call.

Fear wells up inside as we ready for the fight, Stumbling up our ladders, afraid.

All falls dreadfully silent; not even at night.

This is the place where soldiers are made.

Our hearts plunged in fear when we hear him yell, ‘charge…’

Jack Ainscough, Year 9

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Wednesday 24th TESTING StFreMichael's Church Said Mass 8.30am today pleaseMOT  Damp Surveys & Remedial Works e eJames in St stimates Chapel St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am & fr ie SERVICING ndly adTennis Short  Woodworm & Rot Treatments vice HNC @ High Bickington in St James Chapel , NVQ and Friday Institu Centre 4.30-5.30pmProviding for 5+ quality but  Kitchen 12th & Bathroom DesignDIAGNOSTICS & Fitting WCommunity Short Tennis @ Highaffordable Bickington ood Prese te of rving & Legion 3rd Weds of every StMichael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Royal British Damp -Pro Property Maintenance REPAIRS Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+ o fi n accountancy and taxation services. g in St James Chapel month @ GT Conservative Club qualifi7pm Film 'Fire in the Blood' (PG) 8pm @ The  Extensions ed TYRES Theatre Scottish Falsetto Puppet Film 'No' 8pm @ The Plough Plough  Landscaping Decking SALES Theatre 7pm @&The Plough Atherington Acorns, fun, friendly group

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Pause for Thought

E

aster Day this year falls on the last day of March - a wonderful month, full of hope as the days get longer, flowers appear once again and there’s the promise of warmer days ahead.

The shops are full of chocolate eggs, the children are excited to be on holiday.

Yet, is this enough? For Christians it is the greatest day of the year, the Day of Resurrection. A day of wonder, mystery and joy.

Jesus was the most extraordinary man who ever lived. Every detail of his life and death was foretold in the Bible centuries before. His disciples wondered who he was ‘that even the wind and waves obey him’. I wonder, do you know him? The women who loved him stood by the Cross on that Friday, as darkness covered Jerusalem and an earthquake tore the Temple curtain as he died. It was a scary time. Very early on Sunday morning the women, carrying spices, came to anoint his body. Yet he was not there. They were afraid when angels, present in the empty tomb, said ‘Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen’.

1st Torrington Scouts Group

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his half term some of Cubs moved up to Scouts. Five new cubs were welcomed and invested into the pack.

The year started with some yummy allergen free baking. The children followed a recipe and made either cookies or cakes, resulting in some delicious bakes.

In the second week we celebrated all things Scottish, with Burns Night. From weaving paper in a tartan pattern to shortbread, and a quiz about Burns Night/ Scotland and famous Scottish folk.

Towards the end of the half term, we worked hard towards the Personal Safety Badge. This badge covers many aspects of safety such as, electrical and gas safety in the home, safety against crime, emergency services, first aid kits and much more.

Beavers started the term with the Camper Badge and they learnt how to put a tent up, which was great fun as they could hide inside. They also learnt basic knot skills and spaghetti pioneering, where they had to build the tallest tower with dry spaghetti and mini marshmallows. Lots of fun and lots of mess. At their next meeting the Beavers completed their Money Skills Badge, where they learnt about British coins and notes. They made their own piggy bank, designed a coin and chose something to save for. Beavers enjoyed Pancake Day for the last meeting.

The Scouts patrols each had to plan a meeting. This term we’ve completed our Local Knowledge Badge, answering questions about the town and buildings, a tricky thing to do in the dark! In model making, we made some famous landmarks out of lolly sticks and straws and they enjoyed using hot glue guns. Our Circus Skills Badge was lots of fun but, we definitely need to improve before we go into the circus! Pancake Day had the Scouts making and eating pancakes themselves.

The group needs your support. For more information, please contact our Group Scout Leader Jordon on jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Pope John Paul II reflected: “We do not pretend that life is all beauty. We are aware of darkness and sin, of poverty and pain. But we know Jesus has conquered sin and passed through his own pain to the glory of the Resurrection.

And we live in the light of his Paschal Mystery – the mystery of his Death and

Resurrection. ‘We are an Easter People and Alleluia is our song!’”

This is our Easter hope and promise, that all who believe in Him will find love, forgiveness and everlasting life. Do come and sing Allelujah in one of our Churches this year.

Kathy Luck 07702 589 799

Magnolias at Rosemoor

Local Baby & Toddler Groups

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here are few plants that can match the elegance and sheer flower-power of Magnolias.

Around March (and beyond) Rosemoor is furnished with an extravagant display of blooms across the gardens, showing off a huge variation in colour, size and shape across the many different species and cultivars.

Magnolias are an ancient lineage of flowering plants, evolving before pollinators such as bees became prevalent. Instead, their flowers evolved to be pollinated by beetles, each richly scented flower creates a cosy sheltered place for beetles to feed on the plentiful pollen grains within. Spring-flowering Magnolias are usually deciduous, so their blooms can be enjoyed without any leaves to obscure the display.

A very striking Magnolia, found standing by Lady Anne’s house, is M. campbellii ‘Charles Raffill’, bedecked with huge decadent pink flowers.

Despite being from the Himalayas, its flowers are sometimes hit by a late frost.

Somewhat less extroverted - but just as exquisite - is M. denudata, a pure white flowered sentinel that can be seen from afar on the Woodland Bank. M. stellata (pictured) is an ideal choice for smaller gardens, easily kept as a neat shrub, it has smaller but very numerous star-like flowers.

Later on in spring there are plenty more delights to see, such as M. x soulangeana in April, a reliable stalwart of any garden that will also give a few bonus blooms later in summer. As March

ends, many more Magnolias are just getting going – evergreen species such as M. laevifolia have fuzzy cinnamon coloured buds and an alluring scent that drifts through the garden, there’s one cultivar called ‘Gails Favourite’ (pictured) in the Exotic Garden that is worth searching out in April.

Whatever your preferences are, there’s sure to be a Magnolia out there that would make a fine addition to your green space.

Simeon Cotterell Horticulturist at RHS Garden Rosemoor Top: Magnolia stellata ©RHS/Carol Sheppard Above: Magnolia campbellii (Raffillii Group) 'Charles Raffill' ©RHS/Sheila Dearing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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