Torrington Crier May 2023

May

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.

28th May

Great Torrington Bowling Club

Great Torrington was established in 1645 and is the oldest bowling club in Devon and the fourth oldest in England. We are a very friendly club and compete in the Devon County Section One (North Devon) leagues and competitions, as well as friendly matches against other local clubs and visiting clubs on tour.

We welcome new members and run a club night every Monday, starting at 6pm where friendly play with experienced members and coaching on how to play the game can be attained.

We also play short mat during the winter months indoors (October to March), both competitive in leagues and in club competition and roll-up matches internally.

Once a year we run a Charity Challenge day where we invite non-bowling clubs and organisations, or a group/ family of non-bowlers, to have a go and win some money for their charity. This is followed by an open-to-all day where people can try bowls.

If you are interested please contact one of the following, or come along to the club and see any of the members on a Monday evening:

Fred Niven (Chairman)

07748 142405

Elaine Clements (Captain)

07426 364027

Andrew Smith (Secretary) 07485 648704

Charity Challenge Day 2023 Sunday 21st May

Open-To-All Day 2023 Sunday

Historical Match for Armada 400 Torrington History Alive Day 29th July

Left: Section One Winners 2022 Right: Short Mat

Torrington & District Community News & Events

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 07443 491 972

E: torrington.crier@gmail.com

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

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 (please note that this is a home number not an office)

E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

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

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

Town Distribution: The Joy family & Esther Williams

Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community

Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

Read The Crier Online

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

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

Disclaimer:

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

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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.

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB

Families Welcome

Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool

Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY

Large function room for parties/weddings

Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month

Plus other entertainment

Contact Sharon 01805 622543

Welcome to Great Torrington May Fair 2023

May Fair is without doubt the finest day in Great Torrington’s calendar.

Celebrated on the first Thursday in May, this year the date coincides with Star Wars Day, so:

‘May the 4th be with you!’

As always, the day will be filled with lots of events, like country and floral dancing, and the eagerly anticipated contribution from our very own Cavaliers.

Noon signals the moment the Silver Band strikes up with the familiar music, and our May Queen and entourage to make their way through the square and past the crowds who are eager to see the theme of the costumes for this year.

May Fair doesn’t organize itself. It relies on an army of volunteers who give selflessly of their time and experience to make this famous event possible.

They are not Droids or Wookies, but flesh and blood people, many of whom are known to you.

I want to express my personal sincere thanks to the May Fair and Carnival Committee for putting in so much time and effort to give us our special day.

Thanks also to the teachers at Bluecoats School who work with the children, teaching them to perform the traditional May Pole Dancing, and to our town traders who always ensure their shopfronts are so beautifully decorated.

Last, but by no means least, thank you ALL for always supporting Great Torrington May Fair. I know everyone will have a wonderful time, and, as always ‘Uz be Plaized to Zee Ee’.

Cllr Doug Smith Mayor of Great Torrington

TORRINGTON ARMS

Open daily from 11am

Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm

Takeaways Available

Function Room available for all occasions

SKY SPORTS • BT SPORT • RACING CHANNELS • POOL DARTS • LIVE MUSIC • QUIZ NIGHTS

For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook

May Fair Road Closures

Wednesday 3rd May from 6pm, Thursday 4th May all day, and Friday 5th May for the Round the Tree race. No road closures on Saturday 6th May as no official carnival. See elsewhere for alternative pavement carnival, arranged by Daren Nudds and Chris Tattersall.

Notice of the fair making its way through the town early on the morning of 30th April

Access needed through South Street including lower part, Castle Street and other roads in the town centre Please be mindful where you park your car, as there will be some large lorries moving through the town towards Barley Grove car park. The car park will be out of use for the week, to allow for the fair to take place.

May Fair Schedule 2023

Tuesday 2nd May

Window Spotting Competition. For all children up to 11 years of age. Organised by Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School

Wednesday 3rd May

• Rehearsal of May Pole and Crowning of the May Queen by Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School Years 5 & 6 at 6pm

• Opening of Rowlands Fair at 7pm by the Mayor

• Window Dressing organised by Great Torrington Chamber of Trade

Thursday 4th May – May Fair Day

• 8.45am Torrington Silver Band will play around the Town.

• 9am Bells from St. Michael and All Angels Church

Festivities & entertainment to be held in the Square

• 9.45-10am United Open Air Service

• 10.05-10.25am English Country

Dancing by Years 3 & 4 Children from Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School

• 10.30-11am Floral Dancing for ALL Year 2 starting and joined by Years 3 & 4

• 11.15-11.35am Littleham Howlers

• 11.40am Torrington Cavaliers

• 12 noon Proclamation of May Fair & Crowning of May Queen

• 1.15pm Lunch break

WHEELCHAIR USERS: Any wheelchair user/disabled person who wishes to come and see the May Fair celebrations is advised to be in the Square by no later than 10.15am. We do try and keep seats for disabled persons outside the Green Lantern, which are allocated on a first come first served basis. Due to Health & Safety Regulations it is very difficult to get wheelchair users/disabled persons in the Square after 10.15am.

Walking Carnival

This year’s Carnival, on the first Saturday in May, will be a fancy dress, Walking Pavement Carnival and is a FAMILY event! Please get behind the Walking Carnival and make it another great Torrie end to May Fair.

Registration is £1 per entry, at The Torrington Arms between 4pm and 6pm. Every individual/group entry will be given a passport which has to be stamped at each of our local pubs to show that you have completed the route. This is NOT a pub crawl and entrants are NOT required to have a drink (but plenty of drinks will be available for those who wish to imbibe).

Every pub will have sweets available as treats for the children. Judging will take place in Torrington Town Square at 7.30pm. Thanks to the lovely Jayne Wafforne from Whiskers, Declan Tattersall from Honey Wood Distillery, and Torrington Cavaliers for supporting this event. All registration fees, collections etc., will go to Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival, towards next year’s event. All participants take part at their own risk.

Parish Church May Fair Flowers

So come along and join in on the 6th May or if not, support those who do and make this a great event for all of Torrington.

Dazzy & Chris Tat

The church will be open between 10am and 5pm on May Fair Day and the following two days, for you to view a number of flower arrangements. Once again have not chosen a theme for the displays, but are leaving it to the arrangers to use their own discretion. We will hope to have information about many of the clubs and organisations, in and around Torrington. There will be the usual delicious refreshments on May Fair Day and light refreshments on the other two days.

Torridge Vale Social Club. Free Disco for everyone on May Fair Day from 1.30pm at the Club!

Great Torrington Town & Community Hall Important May Fair News!

It’s almost that time again, when our marvellous May Fair Celebrations take place. We are honoured that before the crowning of the May Fair Queen, the Town Hall will be the venue for dignitaries from around North Devon to meet and hold the formal part of the May Fair proceedings. Once all the VIP guests have left the building to join the Mayor in the square, it will be time for the Town Hall to start their own celebrations! The good news is we will be offering locally brewed cask ales and cider at the Town Hall Tavern in the Undercroft. Boom Tingz will also be there to serve their own food. We look forward to seeing everyone - more news and opening times for May Fair week will be on Facebook and posters.

Town Hall Community Awards

Evening 17th March 2023

The Trustees wish to thank so many people who made this evening such a wonderful success, including our staff and volunteers. We provided in-house catering which was appreciated by all our award winners and sponsors who were able to attend. We also welcomed our Mayor Cllr Doug Smith, who assisted with the presentations. The following sponsors helped us stage this very special evening, recognising unsung children and adults who do so much for Great Torrington: Berry’s Accountants, The Community Fund, Langden Estates, Pearce Construction, Tamar Trading, Torrington Town and Lands Charity, Torrington Dental Practice, Webbers

Estate Agency, and Torridge District Councillors.

Our winners, who were nominated by the local community in the adult category were: Debbie Veale, Denzil and Janet Daniel, Martyn Hoare, Morag Flower, Karen Chapman, and Val Knight. We also had a special runner up award for Gill Clayton. In the children’s category our delighted winners were Ethan Hare, Eashan Nijjar, Coral Guppy, and Tina Parkhouse. There were also two runner-up awards for Ruby and Jas. The Trustees also decided to have two special trustee awards for the Cavaliers and the Knit and Natter Group, for their important contribution to the Community. Well done to everybody involved.

Our recent Wedding Fayre attracted over 30 exhibitors from the local area and the feedback has been excellent. We were thrilled to be supporting Devon Air Ambulance who showcased some stunning dresses on the bridal cat-walk, and our thanks to Owen Boundy who worked his magic on the various models’ hair styles. A special mention also to Celia Lancaster, who was the main event organiser.

Town Hall Lunch Club - re-starting Thursday 27th April 12 to 2pm then every two weeks. Don’t miss out on great food, company and drinks available from our licensed bar.

Courses From Learn Devon in May Wednesday 10th May 6.30-8.30pm for

Still life Painting and Drawing. Ring Learn Devon 01237 472462 to register your interest and more information.

Torrington Memory Cafe

We are a friendly, sociable group that meets every second Thursday in the month. Our next meeting is Thursday 11th May. We meet in the Methodist Church from 10.30am until 12/12.30pm. We offer fun activities for members and respite for carers or loved ones.

We enjoy refreshments, games, reminiscences, entertainment and fun. Please come and see what we can offer.

For further information contact leader Lorraine 07377 363 477 or Secretary John 07986 586 799.

Delicacies from the South West

Local cheeses, organic olives, sourdough bread & bagels, pates, salami, crackers, honey & jams, teas & coffee, nut butters & so much more!

Shop 5, Torrington Pannier Market, Great Torrington

TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION

TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION

Library News

Mobile Library Consultation

For Mobile Library customers: Devon County Council are consulting on a proposal to close Mobile Libraries.

This is a proposal, within the context of the financial challenges that Devon County Council currently faces, to end the current mobile library service delivered by Libraries Unlimited, and instead to seek and develop further alternative arrangements to ensure that people can continue to access and engage with their local library or library service.

Devon County Council would like to hear your views on the proposal by the 26th May 2023.

www.devon.gov.uk/haveyoursay/consultations/mobile-libraries-consultation/

If you are unable to do this online, printed and large print copies will be available in the mobile libraries during this time.

If you have any questions please contact communitiesconsultation@devon.gov. uk or telephone 0345 155 1001.

Coronation Tea & Chat Tuesday 2nd May from 2-4pm

Drop by for tea (coffee), biscuits and chat ahead of the week’s main events, the coronation of King Charles III & Torrington May Fair. Share memories and memorabilia of events from the past, local and national.

Walk & Talk - Thursdays 10.30am

Join our regular Walk & Talk every Thursday for a gentle walk followed by a cuppa. New members are most welcome to join the group, please arrive a bit earlier to register in advance of your first walk.

We look forward to seeing you!

Bounce & Rhyme Storytime – Stay & Chat

Tuesdays (term-time only) 10.30-11am followed by Baby Self Weigh Tuesdays 11.30am-4pm.

One 2 One IT Support

If you have a tablet, laptop or smartphone you are struggling with, our volunteer Perry is here to offer support every other Thursday morning (by appointment only). Please call: 01805 622107 to book.

For up-to-date information on events listing please check us out on Facebook @ TorringtonLibraryDevon

We post on our page regularly, so it is a good place to find out what’s going on. Play our Lottery!

We’ve launched our own weekly lottery. Playing the weekly lottery will give you the chance to support your libraries to stay open and help support everyone, particularly through the cost-of-living crisis. Tickets for the lottery cost just £1 per week, with a top prize of £25,000 each week. There will also be regular additional lotteries such as shopping vouchers, food subscriptions, Christmas hampers. We will receive 50% of every ticket bought, with all proceeds going back into providing and expanding these critical services.

To sign up, visit www.librariesunlimited.org.uk/support-us/ Supporters must be aged 16 or over.

Please play responsibly, and good luck!

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

For assistance with any queries please contact us by emailing torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk or via our general telephone enquiries line is 0345 155001. Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092 Librariesunlimited.org.uk

Friends of Torrington Library

As you may be aware, the National Grid sponsored ‘Warm Hubs’ this winter, and Torrington’s ‘Meet up Mondays’, held in Torrington Library, officially finished on the 27th of March. However we have had so many people coming in to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy a friendly chat, craft with Chris, sew with Susie, and especially drink lots of tea and coffee, which the Friends of Torrington Library decided to sponsor an additional week, April 3rd

Our numbers had been swelled, in part, because the Bickford Centre was closed for refurbishment. However it is due to reopen after Easter and we hope that our new friends will enjoy their freshly renovated space.

Our thanks go to Libraries Unlimited and our fantastic Librarians and their helpers.

Nonetheless, special thanks must go to the Co-op who have, once more, kindly donated tea, coffee, biscuits and also cakes for our final Monday meet up. The Co-op has helped the Friends with refreshments for so many events this year and we are also recipients of their Local Community Fund. They have been truly generous in all respects.

If you would like to become a Friend of Torrington Library, the group has its AGM on Thursday 1st June at 2pm in the Council Chamber, which is in the Castle Centre above the Library. The group always welcomes new members and innovative ideas are appreciated too.

Friends of Torrington Library

Buckland Brewer Plants for Sale

Saturday 13th May 10am-3pm

Village Green, EX39 5LP

Flowers ~ vegetables and much more, enquiries Daphne Schermuly 01237 451019, or Trevor Mills 01237 451314. Order forms email washhousebbb@aol. com

All proceeds to The Parish Church Roof Restoration Fund

Local Professional Qualified Counsellor

Face-to-face or online sessions available

Contact for more information

07467 702 605

www.birds-willowcounselling.com

Birds Willow Counselling

Birds Willow is a counselling service based in Great Torrington. I wanted to extend a huge thank you to everyone that has helped and supported me over the last year. It’s great to see local people supporting a local business.

Secondly, I wanted to introduce you to a service that I offer called ‘Single Session Therapy’. Not many people know about this type of therapy and assume that counselling involves many visits over weeks or months.

In certain circumstances one session is all that is needed. The intention is to ideally help you in literally one session. Having said this, there is an opportunity to have more if you feel you need them outside of this meeting.

Who would this benefit? You may feel that you don’t ‘need’ counselling but something doesn’t feel right or it can be useful if you have an important decision to make, wanting to talk it through with someone impartial and non-judgmental. It can also be a gentle introduction to counselling, if you are unsure or want to try. This brief therapy session works if you have an issue which could benefit focusing on a solution rather than the problem. It is a great tool to help those who suffer with anxiety, depression and could benefit from building on strengths rather than focusing on limitations.

If you would like more information please call 07467 702 605 or email admin@birds-willowcounselling.co.uk.

Hello from Hogwash

I’m Christine and I’ve run Hogwash Soap for 10 years, I thought I’d let you know what goes on here at Hogwash HQ… …Making and a whole lot more!

I make all the soap, bath bombs, creams and body washes, here in the back of the shop. Our soap is palm oil free and aimed at sensitive skin (like mine). The only ingredients in the soap are coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter, essential oils. No colour, or any nasties. Apart from The Devon Honey and Oat soap, everything is vegan friendly. The other products are all vegan and natural.

Alongside the Hogwash goodies, we stock mainly hand-made products from North Devon, a lot of them made in Torrington. I believe it’s important that this small individual business supports other makers and small businesses. I like to be different, a bit quirky in fact!

My quirky shop is open three mornings a week, (at the moment), on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 10am-2pm. When we are closed its because I’m doing all the other business ‘stuff’: the legal stuff, the social media stuff , the money stuff, the designing, making wrapping and packing stuff. Our soap is also stocked at fantastic Torrington Refill Shop and I’m at Croyde Craft Market every Thursday in the summer from 10-4.

Over the past few months, I’ve been developing new soaps and bath bombs to add to our range, and am now happy to say that, after a lot of testing recipes, wasting a lot of ingredients, and sending them off to our very patient chemist, they are now all legally assessed and ready for sale. Come in and have a sniff!

If you order online you can pick up from here at your convenience too, www. hogwashsoap.co.uk If you would like Hogwash in your holiday accommodation or as wedding favours, just get in touch and we will be happy to help.

We have a few exciting plans and one is to run workshops in collaboration with other local businesses. Our first collaborative event is with Elska Yoga.

‘CREATE & BALANCE’ Sat 10th June 10am-1pm Castle Hill Community Hall CREATE and have fun with Hogwash Soap as I take you through the first part of the session. You will be making your own bath bombs using essential oils and botanicals. All materials are provided and you will have your own lovely pampering bath treats to take home for a relaxing bath treat.

Then BALANCE your mind and body with Helen from Elska Yoga. Using meditation, breath work and gentle movement to calm your mind and sooth your soul. The perfect way to relax on a Saturday and a great start to your weekend. Perfect workshop to do with a friend and have some time for you. Yummy cake and tea will be provided and no experience of yoga necessary. Contact Hogwash or book at www.elskayoga.co.uk £40.

So that’s Hogwash Soap. After 10 years I am glad to have finally got around to saying Hello!

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

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

Greenways Valley Holiday Park

Great Torrington Seasonal Holiday Units Available

We are offering a seasonal (April to October) licence to occupy some of our units at a fixed price.

Imagine having your own holiday retreat to return to again and again, without the initial capital costs, maintenance costs, operating costs and the asset's residual loss when selling.

The season will run in line with the rest of the Park (April to October) in each year and the unit will be licenced to you for your use. It will not be let/rented/licenced to anyone else during that season.

We will still own the unit. We will insure the structure and maintain it in good condition. We will undertake Gas Safety and Electrical Checks as required (but not your portable appliances). The unit will have all fixed furniture including beds, tables, a cooker and hob etc. but the licensee will have to supply everything else. (Bed linen, towels, crockery, glassware, cutlery, small portable appliances, television, radio, vacuum cleaner etc.) The licensee will be responsible for insuring their own contents, as this will not be covered by the Park’s insurance policy. We will cover all standard maintenance issues.

In order to keep the base cost down, the occupiers will be responsible for the payment of bottled gas and individually metered electricity.

Occupation is suitable for four persons comfortably. The occupation is not limited to the Licensee as they can permit family and close friends to use the accommodation. However sub-letting will not be permitted.

Dogs and visitors are free of charge. One car may be parked adjacent to the unit, additional vehicles are upon request.

The idea of this proposal gives you the total flexibility to have a holiday home year-by-year without the long term commitment. It will also be a comfort to many in the knowledge that they can have the enjoyment of a UK holiday destination that is totally self-contained and that the use has been limited to their own family unit.

If this proposal is of interest to you, please do not hesitate to contact us so that we can discuss it further.

Tel: 01805 622153 Email: enquiries@greenwaysvalley.co.uk

Exciting Changes at Tamar Trading Building Supplies

With the landscaping season now upon us, we have teamed up with suppliers of premium products such as Pavestone, Artificial Grass, Grange and Millboard, to offer a wide range of quality garden and landscaping products at competitive prices.

Porcelain slabs are now available from stock, alongside a range of sandstone and limestone paving, fencing panels and timbers, composts, grow bags, bark, and blended loam topsoils. As the premier distributer of Millboard for North Devon, we are also able to offer the world’s finest hand-moulded composite decking at attractive rates.

We are also in the process of completely updating our Kitchen and Bathroom Showroom, with products from new suppliers such as Merlyn Showering, Eco Bathroom Furniture, Roper Rhodes, QX Bathrooms, Highlife, and Fibo Shower Panels on display. Our showroom now hosts a large range of new display bathroom furniture, shower cubicles, baths, taps, tiles and shower panels. You will be spoilt for choice!

As an approved retailer of both Symphony Gallery and Milano kitchens, we are proud to offer a diverse range of kitchen furniture, from traditional Shaker and painted designs to more contemporary kitchens.

With so much to offer we would love to hear about your project. Please do come and visit us on Hatchmoor Industrial Estate.

Baby Development Classes

At Castle Community Centre Torrington

Tuesday Mornings

Busy Bees – 9.30-10.15am (babies 6mths-15mths)

Caterpillar Club 10.45-11.30am (babies 6wks-6mths)

Our baby development classes have lots of sensory lights and props, bespoke music, parachutes, a different theme every week and our gorgeous sensory caterpillar Cooper! All of our activities follow the EYFS and focus on parents’ wellbeing and bonding with your baby too.

We introduce Makaton signing and messy play to our Busy Bees and finish our Caterpillar Club with a gentle baby massage. There is availability to book a full term or payg spaces too.

Please contact me, details on the advert elsewhere on this page, if you need any more information. I look forward to welcoming you to Bloom!

Andrea

New Chiropractic Clinic Opening Soon!

Abrand-new Chiropractic Clinic is due to open here in Torrington very soon. Mike Belcher, an experienced Chiropractor, is setting up his practice at No. 2 Cornmarket Street (opposite the Opticians).

Mike graduated from the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic with Merits in 2016, and has been in practice ever since. Mike has seen and done most things Chiropractic, ranging from back pain, neck pain, headaches, shoulder problems, pregnancy related pelvic girdle pains, and various other ‘wild and wonderful’ ailments.

Mike said “My wife is a ‘Torringtonian’, and she helps to run Sandford’s Bakery with her family. I’m very fortunate to live here now (I am a Welshman!), I really love the community spirit of Torrington and I want to be able to help the people here. I want to be the most affordable chiropractor in the whole of North of Devon, and I want to help everybody I can. I like to use plain simple language to explain things, I don’t want to confuse anybody and above all I want people to understand what is going on with their body and why, and then help them to recover!”

No. 2 Cornmarket Street has been extensively refurbished since Mike has taken it on. Using local skilled tradesmen, it has been turned it into a welcoming and comfortable purpose-built place to be.

Once Mike has settled in, he plans to look for a complementary professional therapist to take on the upstairs room. If you are, for example, a practitioner of Reiki, a Podiatrist, Nutritionist, or other therapist, and you’re looking for a suitable space to rent, please get in touch.

Please see the advert elsewhere on this page for details.

Local Baby & Toddler Groups

Buckland Brewer 'Time Together' Toddler and Baby Group Mondays during term time at Buckland Brewer Methodist Church from 9.30am to 12noon. £1.50 per family. Dave Watson 07484 223 515

Coldridge Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am every Friday (except 1st Friday of the month) £2 per family.

High Bickington playgroup runs on Mondays 9.30-11am at High Bickington Community Centre. Cost: £2 families, £1 for singletons under 6 months. Petrockstowe Community Church Tea and Tots coffee morning, for mums, dads, grandparents, carers, babies and toddlers together for a drink and a chat. Every Monday 9.15-11am in the school room of the Chapel. Kate Cutter entertains with songs and stories. All welcome.

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 only, 9.30-11.30am. £2 per family, which includes a cuppa for the parents/carers and a 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

From Your County Councillor

This month we see not only the return of May Fair, but also the Coronation of His Majesty the King, and I would like to wish all readers of The Crier an enjoyable Coronation and May Fair Weekend.

I know many of the communities in Torrington Rural will be celebrating with their own events – let’s hope the weather holds out, and we’ll all be able to come together for what should be a happy time for our country.

I know a huge amount of work goes into organising and running May Fair, and a huge amount of voluntary effort is being put in for local Coronation celebrations too. I would like to thank all those who have been involved in the preparations – I, and many others, do appreciate the work that you do!

As ever this past month, one of the main issues coming into my email and phone inbox has been highways-related issues. I know we have had some big problems with potholes in some areas, but I hope readers of the Crier will find it useful to know that from January 1st to the 31st March this year (which was the peak period for the pothole backlog), a total of 16,572 safety defects were repaired all over Devon. As I’ve previously written, more gangs were deployed and we also saw the dragon patcher out and about in Torrington Rural as well.

I know it has been frustrating for residents when reporting a pothole, only to be told that the pothole didn’t meet the safety defect criteria. And yes, there may have been times when a mistake was made. But, of the 16,500 repairs carried out since the New Year, 7,603 additional safety defects were identified by Safety Inspectors when out inspecting the reports coming in from the public. So a further 7,500+ potholes got fixed, due to the inspectors finding them when out inspecting the road following reports from the public. While I know it has been

a frustrating few months, I do have to reflect that when I first became a County Councillor the pothole reports actually went straight to the pothole gangs, and that they would only fill in the ones reported. So, if there was a road with 10 safety defects, you would have to put in 10 separate pothole reports. Now, all 10 should get marked up for repair through a single report.

To give you a further idea of context, in December, before the cold snap, 2431 potholes were repaired. In January that number leapt up to 7,376. In January 2022 (last year), the number of defects needing repair was 3,494. So the weather does have a big impact on the network.

It is due to the cold winter that we have seen pothole problems all over the Country. So, I was very pleased when the Chancellor announced additional capital funding for Highways, and that Devon has received over £9.4million of this funding – the highest amount for any other local authority in England. This will be used to fund further patching and resurfacing schemes, and I have already recommended several new sites to my Neighbourhood Highways Officer, including resurfacing repairs on the B3232 and B3227 in Torrington and High Bullen, and dragon patching on numerous rural roads in Langtree, Peters Marland, Buckland Filleigh, Roborough, St Giles in the Wood, Ashreigney, Winkleigh and many more places besides!

Aside from Highways, there are other developments going on. The Government has given outline approval for Devon to be part of a ‘Devolution Deal’ that could see the local authorities in Devon gain more powers to help tacking affordable housing problems, and improve public transport, connectivity and economic development. Crucially this will not involve the creation of an elected mayor, and we will continue with our existing democratic structures. Discussions on this are still ongoing, but I hope we will be able to see a significant windfall of additional funding and powers

coming our way.

Lastly, DCC has announced another round of the ‘Growing Communities Fund’ which is designed for not-forprofit groups, charities, church/faith groups, schools and Town/Parish Councils to bid for projects. These can be anything from offering warm safe spaces to encouraging healthy activities and tackling loneliness and isolation. Typically grants range from £500 to £1,000, but for larger projects bids up to £3,000 will also be considered. More information can be found online herewww.devon.gov.uk/communities/growingcommunities-fund I hope to see many groups from Torrington Rural applying!

May I wish all readers an enjoyable May Fair and Coronation holiday. As ever, if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise with me you can contact me on facebook.com/cllrsaywell, ring 07886 446 560 or email andrew.saywell@ devon.gov.uk.

Torrington Open Gardens

2nd July 2023

Let’s get up to date as to how things are progressing on the Torrington Open Garden Day in July. I am very pleased to say we have a nice collection of gardens that will be open, as well as RHS Rosemoor, for the £5 each entrance fee (don’t forget all entrance money will go to the Bickford centre). We could possibly still squeeze in another one or two, so if you’re tempted to open your lovely garden please contact me (Stephen) on 07885 443236. In the meantime let us hope the sun will have his hat on in July.

We are trying to arrange for tickets to be on sale in advance in Torrington town itself, so will advise on this next month. As they say watch this space!

Dry Seasoned, Ready-to-Burn logs

Torrington in Bloom

Firstly, congratulations to Great Torrington Common Conservators for yet again winning a 5-star award in the Best Park category of South West in Bloom – it is well deserved and needs to be recognised for the conservation work and bio-diversity of the area. We are extremely lucky to have such a wonderful site to wander round at leisure whenever we wish.

Torrington in Bloom is also considering entering Rack Park into the same category, as well as retaining it as one of our ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries – it counts for both, apparently. It is also likely that the Jubilee Wood project might be entered for a new ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ award, which would further highlight the community work that goes on there.

I hope you have also been enjoying the lovely display of spring bulbs and flowers around the town, in Rack Park, Castle Hill and the Secret Memorial garden. More bulbs are being purchased to plant in the autumn.

Our Open Garden day on 2nd July is moving ever closer, and there’s so much to do! Tickets hopefully should go on sale from mid-May (£5 per person, children free). This will entitle you to visit all the gardens and RHS Rosemoor, so start working on your fitness regime! Each garden will be slightly, or considerably different from the next, from colourful bedding displays to wildlife friendly, informal planting and vegetable patches. Plants will also be on sale at some of the venues.

Cherry Hammon, Torrington in Bloom T: 625788

Community Excavation Open Day

Dig the Castle Open Day Saturday 22nd April Heritage Museum, Gt Torrington South St., 10am-4pm Dig the Castle Project September 23rd -

October 8th 2023

This is a reminder that on Saturday 22nd April, Dig the Castle members will be holding an open day for the public at the Heritage Museum in Gt. Torrington, 10am-2pm. We will have photos and plans for the dig, and will hope to be able to answer any questions you may have – you can also find out how you can get involved! Please come along and see what is planned The project is set to excavate parts of the castle area sited by the town’s Barley Grove carpark, an area that has never been touched by archaeologists, and see if there are any ‘finds’ that will give us more information on the history of the town’s castle.

The event also provides the dig with its first opportunity to start registering people who wish to ‘dig’ during the two weeks – we need you to register so we can arrange suitability, contact, timings etc.

This month the dig obtained its W.S.I. from Devon County Council, so we have the legal process well underway, and we now have over 100 young people booked to get involved in the dig over the period.

Please keep your eyes on the announcement of our open meeting, to be held at some point in May, where all are welcome to come and learn a little more of the plans in hand for the project – date and time will be notified on Instagram, Facebook and the website (see below for contacts).

Question: Are we digging up the whole mound?

Answer: No! We are only licenced to dig trenches/pits at the places we have indicated across the site.

For more information www.onegreattorrington.uk/digthecastle and our Instagram and Facebook pages @digthecastle

Commons Events

We had our first car boot sale on the Old Bowling Green on Sunday April 9th, it was a great success. We managed to raise £268 in five hours. This is the most that we have raised on a morning since we started our stall. We continue to collect your donations of DVDs, CDs, and books to sell on our stall. You can either bring them along on a Sunday morning or contact me on 07956 366 390 so that I can collect them from you. Thank you to all the people that have donated items and a thank you to all the people that have bought them from us. The car boot sales will continue each Sunday until the end of September. We will also have car boot sales on bank holiday Mondays.

Please come along and either have a stall or have a look around for a bargain. It is £7 for a car and £12 for a van. All you need to do is come along and our steward will show you to a pitch. You can arrive from 7am and the buying will start at 8am. This is all weather permitting of course.

We will be doing our popular Water, Wine or Maybe CIDER event at Castle Hill (1646) on Saturday May 13th It’s like a lucky dip and it costs £1 a go, you will at least win a bottle of water that can cost more than a £1 in London! There will be lots of craft stalls there on the day. Hopefully see you there.

For details of our pub quiz please see the separate article. Big Al will be singing in the Pannier Market during the summer to help us raise the funds to repair the Waterloo Monument. If you see him please put some money in his hat.

Andrew Giles, Vice Chair Torrington Commons Conservators

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

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

Congratulations to our Sports Clubs!

Having watched the local derby between Torridgeside FC and Torrington FC, I would to congratulate both teams on a great game But more than that, I would like to congratulate both clubs for their magnificent efforts in developing both club sites; the committees and backers deserve so much credit for the way they are developing both their clubs and the facilities for local people to enjoy.

It’s a great achievement and they, along with Torrington rugby club, must be the most impressive in the region and I’m sure, with all the young people benefiting from the use and coaching these great clubs provide, the future is bright for Torrington sport!

Alex McNamee

Torrington Community Pantomime

Oh yes it is!

Open Meeting at The Plough 24th May 6pm

Torrington Players, in conjunction with The Plough, are planning to produce a spectacular Community Pantomime in January 2024. Everyone is welcome to attend this initial meeting: actors, dancers, singers, set designers, set builders/ painters, tech/ musicians, just interested to hear about our plans…

No immediate commitment necessary. Oh no, there isn’t!

Torrington RFC

Our trip to Buckfastleigh, for the last league game of the season, proved to be a successful day out. We came away victorious 9-20. With tries from Liam Ellis (2) and Aidey Guppy, with Guppy converting one and a rare drop goal from Jamie Sands. This also gave us a good position in the Devon Junior Shield. So much so, that we have progressed to the semifinals without playing our last game, giving us home advantage against Plymouth’s Old Technicians on 15th April, I will update you on the result next issue

Our Ladies Day was a great success, both on and off the pitch. South Molton 2nds very kindly stepped in to provide opposition on the day, as our scheduled opponents have withdrawn from all competition. A strong Molton side turned up, not intending to make life easy for Torrington.

A hard fought first half saw possession seesawing between the two sides, with Molton having much possession in Torrie’s half. Our defence stood fast, despite the ever-increasing threat of Molton scoring. However, this was not to be as a rare excursion into Molton’s half saw a beautifully flighted kick to the wing, where guest player

Tom Owen picked the ball up and went over in the corner. Aidey Guppy’s conversion went off course. That’s how it stood at half time. The second half was a different matter, with both sides playing out of their skins for the win. Molton scored two tries with only one being converted. In the meantime, Torrie burst into action with further tries from Aidey Guppy, who converted his own and a penalty by him too. Then Vinny Bott went over late on, to give Torrington a well-earned 20-12 victory. Not bad for a friendly!

The Ladies Day luncheon went ahead and was a great success.

A good attendance saw much frivolity in the clubhouse, with a goodly number of refreshing beverages being consumed. A raffle was held, with many donated prizes, and proceeds going towards the changing room building project. Over £450 was raised to boost funds. Thank you to all those who donated or purchased tickets. As they say ‘every little helps’

My usual plea for new and returning players to rock up to a training session. Check out our Facebook page for details, Torrington RFC.

The clubhouse is available for hire go to TRFC1985@outlook.com for details.

Teamwork, Respect, Sportsmanship, Enjoyment & Discipline

C’mon Torrie! Mark Waterson

Commons News…

As we move into May the Commons are looking spectacular! The bluebells and wild garlic in Furzebeam Wood are particularly splendid, and I recommend you take the canal path walk from the end of Reid’s Field along to the Tarka Trail near Beam Weir (the Commons end about half way along this path near the information board).

We have removed a large tree which fell into the pond in last year’s storms, only to have another one fall across Rolle Road. We have ensured the path is walkable, and the rest of the tree will be moved as soon as possible, but after bird nesting season.

The car boot sales on the Old Bowling Green are already up and running. As long as the weather allows, we will be holding them every Sunday and bank holiday until the end of September. All details can be found here on our website, www.torringtoncommons.org/events/car-boot-sales/.

No need to book, just turn up on the day!

As well as our regular fundraising to keep the Commons maintained, we now need to raise the money to repair the Waterloo monument on Castle Hill. As this is a listed structure there are strict rules about how this can be done. There will a pub quiz to add to the fund on 20th May in the Royal Exchange. Please ring 01805 622875 to book your table.

If you would like to get involved in the running of the Commons, or volunteer in any way please contact clerk@torringtoncomons.org.

Mandy Harrison, Chair GTCC

Little Torrington WI

We enjoyed our spring walk at a Meeth Nature Reserve, listening to the bird song and identifying wild flowers. The weather managed to hold until we got back to the car park.

April’s speaker was David Ramsden, it was a very enlightening insight into climate change, and produced a lively debate among members. Highlighting climate issues at a world and local level, and how as individuals and collectively, we may influence the future of our planet.

Next month sees our AGM, with the committee up for nomination and election; to help the process along cheese and wine refreshments will be provided.

The book group are currently reading ‘Stranger Diaries’ by Ellie Griffith. The book group meets on the third Monday of the month.

The ‘Ladies that Lunch’ are visiting St John’s at Ashford on the third Wednesday of the month.

If you wish to find out further details please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433

Spring Arts & Craft Fair

Our next event takes place on Saturday 13th May from 10am until 4pm at the Castle Hill Community Centre Great Torrington, EX38 8AA.

In recent years, Great Torrington and its surroundings has become a hotbed of dynamic, original and nationally known artists, makers and crafts artisans. Some of these talented people have organised themselves into a very special group to build the prominence and reputation of those involved.

Since its formation in 2020, Castle Hill Creatives (CHC) have blossomed into Great Torrington’s premier creative community hub and a fully-fledged arts and makers organisation, with upwards of 30 members and several exhibitions/ events already curated.

The group of members and guest artists bring a very wide and diverse palette of artistic and creative skills to the mix, including paint, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery, pottery, textiles, photography, carpentry, print, knitwear, glassware, etc. The upcoming fair on Saturday 13th May at Castle Hill Community Centre features stalls selling handcrafted and original creations and gifts made by the CHC members. Entry is free and the onsite Fork and Feast Café will be open for refreshments.

Come along, support your local makers and buy some unique gifts!

For more information please contact the team at chctorrington@gmail.com

Fleur’s Gardening Forum

Hardy Annuals for Summer Colour

Hardy annuals are those plants which are cold tolerant, their seeds lying dormant until the soil warms up sufficiently for them to germinate. Many of them are old favourites that your grandparents would recognise, so here are just a few to try in your garden.

I must start with probably the nation’s favourite annual, and that is the Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odorata), grown for centuries for its pretty flowers and wonderful perfume. In May, they can be sown directly into the ground, two to a position, up a trellis or wigwam. Don’t allow them to run to seed - keep cutting the flowers as they open.

Calendula, the Pot Marigold, will grow in almost any position in the sun. They are slightly lax plants and the petals can be used to decorate salads. Sow at the foot of your beans to attract bees!

Helianthus, the wonderful bird-friendly sunflower, is a must for the back of the border and trained to grow up a sturdy pole or against a fence. Some new cultivars are dwarf so are ideal for exposed sites. Look out for darker burgundy colours as well as the usual yellow and gold.

Nasturtium are very versatile annuals and again, they are available in myriad colours, can be grown in hanging baskets or in the ground, perhaps to cover an untidy corner. The leaves of nasturtium are edible, being quite peppery so use sparingly in a salad and the green seed capsules can be pickled

and used as a substitute for capers.

Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) is a native of cornfields, hence its common name. The original blue is still a beautiful flower but you can get them in shades of burgundy, pinkish, and lighter blue. They are a good cut flower, too.

Scabious (S. atropurpurea) is the very pretty ‘pin-cushion’ scabious of old cottage gardens. Scabious was once used as a ‘cure’ for an itchy skin condition called scabies (caused by a mite). Anyway, it is also very good for cutting and comes in many colourways. Plants may survive a mild winter if trimmed back in autumn.

Larkspur (Delphinium consolida) is a much daintier plant all round. The flowers are similar to those of its taller, bolder relative and also come in different colours. Petals can be dried and used as a natural confetti.

Love-in-the-mist (Nigella damascene and N. papillosa). Pretty flowers some in shades of blue to white, something with contrasting stamens and the foliage is almost filigree in some varieties. The seed pods can be dried and used for decoration (children enjoy ‘popping’ them when the capsules are large enough!).

Papaver rhoeas/P. somniferum, the former is the familiar red poppy of cornfields and the latter the big blousy single or double forms of the opium poppy. P. rhoeas is a plant of farmland or disturbed ground and there are some pretty variations of the original, the Shirley poppy being one. P. somniferum

has many different cultivars, both single or double (peony flowered) and in many shades from white to deepest burgundy. The fat seedheads can be used in floral arrangements, especially at Christmas. Hardy annuals can be sown in gaps in your borders. Sow a few in a group and thin out as necessary once they germinate. You can also sow a few in a 3 inch (7-9cm) pot and once they are growing well, plant them out where a bit of colour is needed.

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café is held on the second Saturday of the month 10am12pm. Come along and grab yourself a coffee and a bacon roll, then have a look around at what the market has to offer. The stalls vary, but we regularly have: The Body Shop, Usborne Books, Linda's handmade cards, Beaford Ladies Group, local honey, Spencer's Glass, Sam's Household and Stuff and others. We also have a large free car park!

We look forward to seeing you! The next dates are 13th May, 10th June. Look for Beaford Village Hall on Facebook, and follow us to keep up to date with all of our events!

Fleur

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN Your Council, Working for YOU

From Your Mayor…

Iwas very pleased to be asked to attend an assembly at the end of February, at Great Torrington Bluecoats School, to announce the winners for the design of the May Fair programme.

Congratulations to all those children who entered, and especially to those chosen as the winners. We all look forward to seeing the final versions in print.

It was an honour to give a speech at the tea party held to celebrate Cllr Margaret Brown’s award of Honorary Freewoman of Great Torrington Town & Parish. These awards are very rarely given, and only bestowed on individuals who have contributed over and above to the local community. Margaret is a very worthy recipient and continues to represent local issues at both Town and District level – congratulations Margaret!

On March 16th Great Torrington Town Council held their Annual Parish Meeting in the Oak Room of the Town Hall. This meeting is open to all members of the parish to attend, and there is an opportunity to raise questions or

Town Tidy

Sunday 30th April

suggestions at the end of the meeting, as well as the presentation of the annual Mayor’s Report. Thank you to those members of the community who attended and raised very important points. We promote this meeting on our social media and in the Crier each year, and would love to see as many representatives of the community as possible coming along, so watch this space in February 2024!

Funding proposals for The Plough were discussed at a recent meeting at Torridge District Council; I would

"I would like to personally congratulate the two young people from The Plough Youth Theatre who spoke so eloquently to the committee in daunting circumstances – well done!"

like to personally congratulate the two young people from The Plough Youth Theatre who spoke so eloquently to the committee in daunting circumstances –well done!

I attended several community events this month; firstly, at Abbeyfield and then the Town & Community Hall Community Awards, where I was asked to present some of the awards. It was fabulous to see so many people of all ages being recognised for their valuable contributions to our community. The

Bideford Manor Court ceremony was like stepping back in time, and so nice to see this tradition being kept alive as it is one of only a handful of Manor Courts across the country that still take place.

I attended another Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club show, where they hosted the Western Counties Finals, as well as the regular home show showcasing local boxers – well done to all those who took part on this very successful evening.

This week I popped along to the final ‘Meet-Up-Monday’ at Torrington Library. I would like to congratulate all the staff and volunteers for making this group such a huge success, the group provided an opportunity for people to meet up have a warm drink and a biscuit, read and discuss the newspapers, play a board game, and join in with sewing activities amongst other things. It really was a hive of activity, and those who attended will very much miss their Monday meet-ups.

I am very much looking forward to May, as we all know it is the most important month in Great Torrington’s annual calendar and this year, we also have the added excitement of the Coronation of King Charles III. I hope you all enjoy celebrating both our local fair and this historic occasion.

Cllr Doug Smith, Mayor of Great Torrington

Royal Garden Party

Why not join us for our next Great Torrington Town Litter Pick on 30th April 2023 as we get ready for our May Fair celebrations? We will be working in the town centre but also along New Street and Calf Street. We will have some litter pickers available or bring a brush, shovel, bin bag, gloves trowel etc. and get stuck in. Meet us by the Town Hall at 10am if you would like to helpwe hope to see you there!

Cllr Keeley Allin

We would like to congratulate our Town Crier, Town Marshal and Flag Raiser Alan Mitchell, who will be attending the King’s Coronation Garden Party on May 9th, where he will be representing Little Torrington Parish Council. We hope he has a great day and look forward to hearing all about it.

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Great Torrington History Alive Event

Following the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II last September, our History Alive event originally scheduled for Saturday 10th September, had to be cancelled. We are now delighted to be able to confirm that it has been rescheduled to take place on Saturday 29th July 2023! The event will be an opportunity for Great Torrington to showcase the town’s rich heritage, which dates all the way back to the 8th century AD.

The town will be buzzing with plenty of free, fun, educational and interactive activities to highlight important milestones experienced by our relatively small, but hugely significant North Devon market town throughout the ages. Activities will include living history re-enactments, guides dressed in period costume ready to talk to visitors about notable characters who lived in Great Torrington, a costumed bowls competition, guided tours of the Rolle Canal and Tarka Valley Railway, free entry to Dartington Crystal’s Visitor Centre, talks, displays and exhibitions and a costumed market day.

In addition, RHS Rosemoor will be hosting a Vintage Weekend (normal entry fees apply) with a large collection of vintage and classic vehicles, steam traction engine rides, 1940s re-enactors and singers, Lindy Hop dancing, vintage games, food and drink. There will be a vintage bus running shuttles between RHS Rosemoor and Sydney House car park in Great Torrington. Come and join us in July and experience some of the fascinating history Great Torrington has to offer!

Dementia Action Week

Dementia Awareness Session

Adementia-friendly community is a city, town or village where people with dementia are understood, respected and supported.

In support of Dementia Action Week, which runs between 15th-21st May 2023, Great Torrington’s Dementia Friendly Community Working Group is working with the Alzheimer’s Society to encourage people to ‘act on dementia’. The theme for this year’s campaign is diagnosis.

The Alzheimer’s Society has noticed a sustained drop in dementia diagnosis rates and is therefore keen to encourage those who are concerned they, or a loved one, may be experiencing signs of dementia to contact their GP or the Alzheimer’s Society for guidance and support.

The Alzheimer’s Society offers

Notice of Annual Council Business Meeting

Tuesday 16th May 2023

The Annual Business Meeting of Great Torrington Town Council will be held at Great Torrington Council Chamber, Castle Hill on Tuesday 16th May 2023 at 7pm.

Members of the community are very welcome at this meeting, it would be helpful if you could let us know in advance if you are planning on attending. Please call 01805 626135 or email admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Notice of Great Torrington Mayoral Introduction Ceremony

The Introduction Ceremony for the Mayor of Great Torrington Town Council will be held at Great Torrington Community Hall on Tuesday 6th June 2023 at 7pm.

practical advice and information on memory loss and diagnosis, a symptoms checklist to help describe symptoms to GPs and has some videos of firsthand stories from people living with and affected by dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line can be contacted on 0333 150 3456 and more information can be found on their website: www.alzheimers.org.uk

During Dementia Action Week, one of our local Dementia Champions will be hosting a Dementia Awareness Session at the Town Hall, on Wednesday 17th May 2023 between 1-2pm. This is an opportunity for anyone to learn more about dementia and memory loss and with this increased understanding, help to support and make a difference to

Members of the public are very to welcome to come along to this event, however we do ask that if you are planning to attend, please let the Town Council know by Tuesday 30th May 2023 so that we can plan provision of refreshments. Call 01805 626135 or e-mail admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk to let us know you’re coming.

those amongst us living with dementia. If you would like to come along to this session, please contact the Town Council on 01805 626135 or admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk, to book your place.

Rolle Canal & Society Anniversary

Not only is this an auspicious year for our monarchy, it also is for the Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Waterways Society, and Lord Rolle’s Canal itself.

In January 2003, a group of people interested in Lord Rolle’s Canal met in the Burton Art Gallery and by the end of the afternoon, the RC&NDWS was inaugurated. This makes 2023 the 20th anniversary of the formation of the Society.

The aims of the society, as established during its inauguration, to research, conserve, publicise and restore surviving features of the Rolle Canal in North Devon, have been more than adequately achieved over its past 20 years of its existence, and continues to do so today.

1823 was also an auspicious year since this was when James Green began the construction of Lord Rolle’s Canal, making this year its 200th anniversary.

Lord Rolle was very keen on pomp and ceremony and on the occasion of his laying the first stone on the beautiful Beam Aqueduct on 11th August 1824, there were a number of local dignitaries present, members of the public as well as a number of canons. Lord Rolle was at the time Colonel of the North Devon Yeomanry. Unfortunately, one canon burst during the ceremony and a person attending was injured. Lord Rolle promptly paid a surgeon to attend the injured man who was compensated with one year’s allowance.

In order to mark and celebrate these historic events, on Saturday 12th August, starting at 2.30pm the site of Sea Lock will be open to the general public. The site is accessed from the yard at Annery where there is limited parking, so those wishing to attend, are asked to car-share as much as possible or take advantage of the local bus service.

At Sea Lock there will be the opportunity to view the restoration work that is on-going at the site as well as visiting the specially constructed traditional wharf-side building which houses an archive of photographs and canal artefacts.

A number of other attractions are planned for this open day, sadly not including the firing of canons but maybe, fireworks?

All are welcome to attend, but dogs are discouraged. More details will be made available in due course at www. rollecanalsociety.org and on Facebook.

Abbeyfield

Supported Independent Living

Our Easter Coffee Morning was well attended and raised £224.50 for the residents’ Comforts Fund. We were delighted that Torrington’s Mayor, Councillor Doug Smith, was able to join us. It was so nice to meet up with friends, old and new, once again. Thanks go to all the staff, residents, volunteers and friends, who helped in any way on the day or beforehand. We are also grateful to local businesses, John Patt’s, Taff’s Fish and Chips, Aurora Candles and Green Lantern Bakery, who generously donated raffle prizes.

We would love you to join us for coffee and cake on the third Friday of each month, between 10.30am and 12 noon. Our cooks bake the most delicious cakes! It is an opportunity to have some lively conversation, meet our residents and perhaps see what we can offer in accommodation, if you are looking, for yourself or a loved one.

If you live alone and are missing company, why not join us for a delicious two-course Sunday lunch for only £6.50. To book a place please ring our House Manager on 01805 623605.

We are now planning our Summer Fête for Saturday July 8th. There will be food, stalls, a raffle, tombola and musical entertainment and great company, so please put the date in your diary now! We look forward to meeting you at Glen Tor, Villa Road EX38 7DZ at any or all of these events. You can always be sure of a warm welcome!

Torrington Baptist Church

Services on Sunday mornings at 10.30am followed by refreshments.

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

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4 Well Street Torrington EX38 8EP

Torrington – a Special Town Part One

At first sight, Torrington appears to be similar to many other small Devon towns but, by looking a little more closely, I hope to uncover its more individual and interesting features. These include its impressive location, its medieval castle, and the former leper colony across the valley, as well as the historic parish church, the town’s royal connections in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, and the Civil War battle which raged through the streets in the mid-seventeenth century. In addition, there are the Torrington Cavaliers, the May Fair celebrations, an important annual event, and the Commons that contribute to making Torrington a special town.

Walking from the square up through the pannier market brings you out onto Castle Hill with its steep drop down to the River Torridge, after which the town is named, and views over the countryside towards Dartmoor. This superb hilltop position has led to the town being referred to as ‘the English Jerusalem’ and it must have been valued for its strategic importance during the Middle Ages.

Torrington, or Great Torrington to give the town its official title, shares the same problems as many small rural towns

in the twenty-first century: dwindling amenities (banks, pubs and community hospital beds gone, the library and post office fighting to survive) and too many cars chasing too few parking spaces on

operation for nearly a hundred years, closed to passengers and general goods services in 1965 and to freight in 1982. Track-lifting began in the mid1980s and the line became part of the Tarka Trail footpath and cycleway. The station building became the Puffing Billy pub and restaurant. A group of railway enthusiasts still have hopes of opening up a steam railway and re-establishing the line to Bideford.

roads built for horses and carts. The old industries, which provided employment for everyone, are long gone (glove factories, dairy, meat factory) with only Dartington Crystal left of the major employers. But the community spirit of the inhabitants is strong, and there is a lot of voluntary organised activity in and around Torrington that supports young and old, fit and infirm. In a South West survey, it was found that Torrington had the greatest number of volunteers per head of population in the whole of the region. This became very apparent during Covid lockdowns.

The rail service to Torrington, in

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There are also remains of the Rolle Canal, which was in use between 1827 and 1871, when it was replaced by the railway which was built over sections of the same route. It was designed by civil engineer, James Green, and was similar to the one he had recently constructed at Bude. Seven miles long from Sea Lock on the Torridge to Rosemoor (Rowe’s Moor in those days) just beyond Torrington, it was used to transport heavy goods such as lime and coal inland and, in the other direction, agricultural produce, bricks and clay out to the port at Bideford.

In my articles during the next few months, I shall write about those aspects of Torrington that, in my opinion, make it a special town.

Moira Brewer

Tarka Valley Railway News

Our first event of the year took place on a bright and sunny Easter Saturday.

The highlight of the day was the naming ceremony of our recently acquired 143 unit which was named after the late Rod Garner, a founder member and chairman of TVR. The train was kindly blessed by Fr Steve from St Michaels Church; it was then followed by Mike Harper playing ‘Amazing Grace’ on his bagpipes.

The open day itself was a great success, attracting many visitors to the stalls, classic cars, motorbikes, the always-popular traction engine rides and, not forgetting, ‘Laurel and Hardy’. Our takings for the day amounted to over £750. Huge thanks to all those who supported the event and to our volunteers who gave up their time to

Pause for Thought

This year May will be filled with excitement, beginning here in Torrington with the May Fair, and then a weekend of celebration as King Charles is crowned after the extraordinary 70-year reign of his mother Queen Elizabeth. The Coronation is a deeply religious ceremony, filled with symbolism, prayers and words from Scripture. In the most sacred part of the service the King will be anointed with oil from Jerusalem using the 12th century spoon from the crown jewels. When the Orb is given to him, the following words are said: ‘Receive this Orb set under the Cross, and remember that the whole

organise, run and, of course, pack up at the end of the day. We also enlisted a number of new volunteers which was brilliant.

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

Robert Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

world is subject to the Power and Empire of Christ our Redeemer’.

Could Jesus really be the world’s true King, coming back to reign? His title, Christ or Messiah, means anointed one. Christians throughout the world keep two feasts this month - Ascension Day and Pentecost. Luke tells us that forty days after he rose from the dead, Jesus, having taught his disciples about the Kingdom of God, was taken up into heaven. As they watched him disappear into the clouds, two men in white robes said he would return from heaven in the same way as he ascended. Ten days later, on the great Jewish feast of

Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on all those gathered in Jerusalem. Kings and Queens have come and gone throughout the history of the world. Our glorious hope is that one day Jesus will return to establish a Kingdom that will never end.

‘But this I know, the skies will thrill with rapture, and myriad, myriad human voices sing, and earth to heaven, and heaven to earth will answer:

At last the Saviour, Saviour of the world is King.’ ( William Young Fullerton) Kathy Luck 07702 589 799

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

The Rolle Canal walks take place on summer weekends starting at 2.30pm. They are guided by Rolle Canal Society members and, where on private ground, permission has kindly been granted by the land-owners. However, individuals take part at their own risk and must take responsibility for their own safety at all times. The distance is usually around two miles and the aim is to locate and identify surviving clues to the history of the Rolle Canal, and other transport links between Great Torrington and the Torridge estuary. The income, from the small charge of £2 per person, makes a valuable contribution to the society's work in improving access along the canal and providing interpretation of the major features.

No booking is required - all welcome. Please note that some walks include private land where dogs may not be permitted. Up to date details of each walk will normally be published in the local press and on our Facebook page and website: rollecanalsociety.com. If you need any further information, please email Ian Harrison at: halehillfarm@ gmail.com

Sunday 14th May 2.30pm: Annery Kiln to Ridd Inclined Plane. Starting from Annery Kiln by Halfpenny Bridge on the Bideford to Weare Giffard road, see the site where tub-boats were hauled up an incline from the river level to the canal summit level. Part of the underground water-wheel chamber is visible beside the Tarka Trail. In spring, orchids and other wild flowers abound in the dry

canal basin. Distance less than two miles. Please note that the route includes 100 metres walking over rough meadow grass which may be wet after rain. Meet at 2.30pm at Annery Kiln.

Sunday 18th June 2.30pm: Rosemoor: The Dark Weir, Canal Basin and Lime Kilns. Starting from the end of the new extended car park at RHS Rosemoor Gardens near Great Torrington, this is an opportunity to walk beyond the public gardens through attractive woodland to Darkham Weir on the River Torridge from where the waters to feed the Rolle Canal were taken.

Then follow the Mill Leat to the recently cleared canal basin, effectively the terminus of the Rolle Canal. Here the old lime kilns can be seen as well as the foundations of a Tucking Mill. (Rosemoor operates a strict no dogs policy). Length, about two and a half miles. Meet at 2.30pm at the far end of the RHS Rosemoor car park.

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

Saturday 12th August 2.30pm: Sea Lock and Canal Museum. From the

temporary car park next to the Annery lime kilns walk along the canal to Sea Lock.

This is an opportunity to see the restoration work on the lock where in the nineteenth century river barges could enter the canal basin from the tidal Torridge estuary. A specially constructed traditional canal-side building houses an archive of photographs and canal artefacts. Distance less than two miles. Meet at 2.30pm at Annery Kiln.

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

Sunday 3rd September 2.30pm: Taddiport/Torrington Common. The headquarters of the Rolle Canal Company was at Taddiport, and several associated buildings and structures can be seen here. From the entrance of the old milk factory, the route proceeds along the Rolle Road, a bridleway which is actually the fairly intact bed of the Rolle Canal, through Torrington Commons. Then, via the back street ‘ginnels’ off Mill Street, down to the beautiful Torridge-side meadows and back to Taddiport Bridge. A fascinating mixture of nature, past industrial sites, proposed developments and efforts to safeguard ecology. Length, about two miles. Meet at 2.30pm at the entrance to the old milk factory at Taddiport.

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Property Market Place Musings

Is the sales process taking too long?

The estimated cost of property sales falling through was estimated to be a staggering £1billion, in 2022. Nationally, a sale falls through every two minutes, according to Twenty CI group, and the average time nationally for an exchange to take place is now sitting between 120-150 days. This is the figure recently issued by HBB

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Bideford District Photography Group

April seems to have flown by and a full programme of talks, competitions and practical demonstrations have passed in a flash. The AGM on the 25th managed to complete all the club business and election of officers, before we moved on to the programme covering the rest of 2023.

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

Lots of variety and places have been incorporated into a packed programme including:

2nd May: Evening at Bucks Mill.

6th May: A Saturday trip to see The Western Counties Print Exhibition at Bovey Tracey, lunch and exploring the area.

9th May: Back for a Tuesday evening in and around Mortehoe.

16th May: Spend the evening photographing at Mouthmill.

23rd May: Members’ Night at the Blue Lights Hall Appledore

30th May: Tuesday evening at Fremington Quay.

6th June: Tuesday at Wistland Pound

10th June: A Saturday at Meeth Nature Reserve.

So, there is a good mix coming up to serve the membership whatever their tastes.

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

(House Buying Bureau). I would suggest the fall throughs have been exasperated by events around September/October last year, when interest rates rocketed at an alarming rate, and the whole sale process is taking too long.

What is the answer?

Well there is no panacea but everyone can play their part to speed it up. Certainly, as agents we have always been focussed on getting as much information as possible from prospective buyers upfront, before taking client instructions to agree a sale. For some buyers they see the questions that a true agent will ask as invasive, but by being upfront at the beginning with information, it can save a lot of heartache a few weeks down the line. Yes, we can all go onto a comparison website or a lender’s website direct and punch in some figures on what we earn and what our outgoings are and be issued a ‘Decision in Principle’. It is a very exciting feeling to be able to contact agents and, if questioned, tell them you are in possession of a DIP. However, if you are offered the chance to have a free conversation with a whole of market mortgage brokerage, do not

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

shun the chance. These people are a gold mine of knowledge. Yes, they are more than likely to initially ask deeper questions about income and expenditure, but when the time comes to submit a mortgage application, they are likely to have a better success rate of getting it placed, especially if more information is required by the lender, as they will be able to put it across in the best light, as they know how the system works. Often these brokers will also have a line into the lender to be able to speak to them, rather than as a direct applicant, being beholden to emails or even text requests for more information, that going direct often produces. How you answer these emails and texts will have a bearing on the decision to lend or not. Also, using a brokerage does enable the agent to have a loose conversation with the advisor, so when it comes to putting the offer forward, they can do so in the best light, informing the client they have had a talk with the advisor who is likely to place the mortgage. What a positive message to

give to a homeowner to accompany the offer! Once a sale is agreed, a line of communication to the advisor as part of the onwards sales process can cut down the time taken to be being handed over the keys. That has got to be good news for all involved.

Another development within the industry is something being trialled in various parts of the country - Reservation Agreements, that require a seller to have certain information available upfront before marketing a property for sale. When a sale is agreed, a binding reservation agreement is put in place between the buyer and seller right at the beginning, with the express aim of speeding up the transaction by both parties committing to the sale and purchase. There are penalties on both sides if they withdraw. The process of buying and selling looks to be changing over the coming months and years, which is no bad thing.

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

Does the word ‘diet’ make you think about being controlled and restricted?

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

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

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Astrange couple of months! February the driest for 30 year, March England’s wettest since 1981 and the third wettest on record, which goes back to 1836 - April is starting very wet. Rainfall in March has helped water levels improve, but it follows on the heels of a very dry February, so there is a need to remain vigilant – especially in areas that have not recovered from the drought last year. As ever, it is important that we all continue to use water carefully to protect our precious rivers, lakes and groundwater, and the environment and wildlife that depend on it. Now is the time to plan ahead: fit water saving devices and water butts- check South West Water’s website (www.southwestwater.co.uk) for freebies.

Recently, two national newspapers, The Times and the ‘i’, launched campaigns to improve the nation’s rivers and seas. This is really important, it’s right that the state of our waterbodies gets this kind of attention. Our rivers are better than in previous decades – but their ecological quality is still far too low, improvements seem to have plateaued, and there is little attention on public health as an objective for investment and regulation. This will only improve if water companies, agriculture, government and regulators, all take action – so press attention can help accelerate progress.

The Times’ main points are:

1. Jail and other criminal penalties for water chiefs under the beefed-up Environment Agency

2. Bring forward the target date for improving three quarters of overflows discharging near sensitive sites

3. Hundreds of clean bathing sites by the end of the decade

See our Facebook page to follow the ideas.

Being a member of the United Nations World Water Quality Alliance (UNWWQA), we support these objectives and in terms of quality, see the river Torridge as an issue.

The river Torridge was clean enough to swim in once, unfortunately it is no longer. We need it to be designated a swimming river again. We realise this will not happen overnight, but constant monitoring of the river to determine what is polluting it will help identify the source of the pollution and thus help eliminate it. We will approach our local councils and other environmental groups to help achieve this. Please support us.

‘Integrated Plan for Water’ is a newly announced Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) policy document, which promises more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement on water companies. The plan covers both the water environment - how clean it is – and water resources, how much of it we have. It tackles every source of pollution, including from storm overflows, agriculture, plastics, road run-off and chemicals - as well as the pressures on our water resources as a result of hotter, drier summers and population growth. Again, see our Facebook page and Crier articles for further details. Water bills must reflect use, which means they will increase, with protection for the vulnerable. Big users must be discouraged by financial incentives. One idea is that a base use of water is set and charged at one rate, with use above that being charged at a higher rate. Another idea is to charge an annual fee for home hot tubs, swimming pools and jacuzzis. New homes must be built as both energy and water efficient. The use of smart water meters must be pursued, with direct read out to an app, not some plug in device. SWW installed 103 smart water meters in Great Torrington, as part of the project which led to our creation, we also helped create an app. Unfortunately SWW are still coming round and reading them – what a waste!

Contact us @ gtwaterforum@gmail.com

Fancy a Run?

Now’s a great time to consider joining us at Torrington running club/Torrington Amateur Athletics Club (TAAC) – with a strong emphasis on ‘amateur’. Due to the way the membership cycles work, this is the best time of year for value for money, with annual membership costing no less than 60p per week (£31 for the year if signed up by 30th April). If you could buy a chocolate bar for 60p, I would say this was a better way of spending it, but we’ll have to make do with about half a chocolate bar for this analogy.

Why join up, aside from value for money? A few reasons:

• Weekly coached sessions for members starting at GTS, Wednesdays 6.15pm. This session is engineered so it caters for all our members and mindsets – you can push yourself one week, with perhaps a more social pace the next. Whatever works for you. The only requisite we have is that you can already run 5k/3miles (doesn’t have to be quick). This is just so we can ensure cohesive sessions.

• Once-a-month club ParkRuns and Long Runs (Sunday mornings)

• Affiliation to England Athletics – this has various perks, but importantly offers you £2 off race entries for any UK licenced race, including our own Christmas Caper and Round The Tree events.

• Pretty sure you were aware that running is healthy. It is. Arguably, it’s as good for mental health as physical health, though the two are linked. Anyhow, you pretty much always feel good after a run. And doing it as part of a Club community makes it more fun! More to be found www.torringtonaac. co.uk/membership and you can contact us via this website and the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ TorringtonAmateurAthleticsClub.

CAB Advice Column

With three Bank Holidays coming up in May this seems to be particularly timely!

“I recently started a new job where my boss has told me I will have to work on Bank Holidays. This was never the case in my old job. Can my employer really make me work on a public holiday and should I get paid extra if I do?”

Unfortunately, when it comes to Bank Holidays, whether or not staff have to work is up to their employer, and you don’t have to be paid more if you do. The situation will vary from job to job, and will depend on a number of factors, such as whether your place of work is open on Bank Holidays, your hours of work and, crucially, what your contract of employment says.

Take a look at your contract. It may say that you will always get Bank Holidays off, or it may say that sometimes you will be required to work them. If your place of work is open on Bank Holidays you may be asked to work some, but if your contract clearly says that you get Bank Holidays off you shouldn’t be asked to work them.

Your contract may say “In addition to bank and public holidays, your annual holiday entitlement is x days” This means you get public holidays off in addition to your annual leave entitlement, but might not mean you are entitled to take specific days off. You may be required to work on a Bank Holiday in which case you should get another day off instead.

Alternatively, it may say something like “Your annual holiday entitlement (inclusive of bank and public holidays) is x days.” This means that you have to take Bank Holidays off as part of your annual leave allowance (so you’ll have to book all Bank Holidays as paid time off) or counted as additional holiday days.

A common misunderstanding is that employers have to pay you extra when you work a Bank Holiday. This is not the case unless your contract specifies otherwise. Your employer needs to stand by what is in your contract of employment. In the absence of a contract, the legal default position is that your employer can tell you when you can and can’t take time off. If you wish to take a Bank Holiday off you should request it in the usual way within your organisation. If this becomes an issue with your employer, you should try and resolve it via an informal chat in the first instance and if that doesn’t get you anywhere, raise a formal grievance. If you need help and advice with this, please get back to us!

CA TNMWD is available on its free, local AdviceLine on 0808 27 87 999 or you can visit our website www.ruraldevoncab.org.uk and click on ‘Get Advice’.

1st Torrington Scouts

The Beavers ended term by making cards and coupon booklets for Mother’s Day, and a night walk around town to learn about their local area. Just before we finished for the Easter holidays, they got a chance to play in the park and all received a little Easter Egg

After the Scouts planned and budgeted for the ‘Come Dine with Me’ challenge, over the next three weeks each patrol took it in turns to make their choices. The Stags made bolognaise with pasta, alongside an orange and lemonade drink. The Eagles made a giant tray of nachos for everyone to share, and a few different crumbles. Finally, the Panthers made macaroni cheese and pancakes; all of the meals were very tasty. The Scouts very much enjoyed this challenge, especially eating all the food, not so much the washing up afterwards. To finish the term the Scouts completed a round robin of life skills, including cleaning, sewing and ironing. They also wrote the quiz for our fundraising ‘Curry and Quiz’ event, which they then helped to run, including table service. The event raised an amazing £530, to go towards refurbishing the Scout HQ toilets. We would like to thank the local community for supporting us.

If you can spare an hour, or feel you could help/support within the hall committee and the groups, please contact the Group Scout Leader, Jordon via email on jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Fridays 1.30-3pm Email to book your space hello@wellbeingmethods.co.uk

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The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive one free chair fitness class with Zita Costello 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 Pat Boud. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 11th May and the solution and winner will be in the June issue.

Yoga has helped me balance my mind and body. I have a very gentle practice that has helped me overcome injuries, anxiety and overwhelm.

I am passionate about mental health and would love to share my wellbeing practices with the community. Particularly those who are seniors, have limited mobility, injuries and disabilities. Aiming to reduce social isolation, loneliness and help to improve physical and mental wellbeing.

Chair fitness is a very gentle form of exercise that is suitable for those who need to sit down for any reason. A gentle practice will help if you have health issues that are temporary or chronic, and can help regain some strength and flexibility that has been lost by your condition.

Benefits may include relieving stress, fatigue, pain, joint lubrication and balance. It is very gentle and acceptable for all levels of fitness.

Everyone will feel very welcome and will get to choose their favourite song to put on the class playlist!

It will be a 45 minute class with a 45 minute social at the end. We will share stories, cups of tea and biscuits all while getting to know one another in a relaxed and safe environment.

Sign up to the first class on 12th May to win one month’s worth of classes!!! Class is £10 or buy three and get the fourth class free!

Booking essential. hello@ wellbeingmethods.co.uk, 07950 864611. Available to hold classes in rural areas. One-to-one teaching available on request.

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Fabulous Freddie here checking in with all the K9Focus news.

Well, April was quite a busy month at the rescue in terms of both organising all our summer events, new dogs arriving and some lucky dogs finding their forever home. Aero the Sprocker adopted his new family and I was quite sad to see him go, as he was such a lively little soul who I loved playing with, although he did wear me out at my grand old age! Bodhi the lurcher also left us and went to Battersea, as sadly we had no interest in him at all - fortunately, he too has now found his home. Being one of Battersea’s Animal Partners is really helpful to the rescue, as it does

enable us to share our dogs with such a large rescue and improve their chances of finding that loving home. Sadly as many of you will know, Battersea lost one of its main ambassadors last month in Paul O’Grady, who did so much work not only for Battersea, but also as a direct result for many of us smaller rescues – a great loss to all us woofs.

Anyway on to brighter things. Our summer events are all planned and we’re really excited that we have been given permission to hold one of our fun dog shows on the Torrington Common on 22nd July – I’m so looking forward to meeting all my followers. Aunty Lynne has asked that if anyone would like a stall at the show, then please email her at lynne@k9focus.co.uk for more details. The stalls will be free and we are only asking for a donation to the rescue to help us help more woofs. It is already looking like it will be a fun day, with lots of activities planned for all the family. Before that you will find us at the Braunton Fair on 29th May, which is one of our regular dog shows and always great fun.

Now between you and me (and about 50 others in the club), Aunty Lynne has been going to Slimming World with Tracy, in the hope to shed the few pounds that she gained during lockdown.

Now this has meant that I am getting extra walks as part of her weight loss programme which is great – but crikey, she is wearing me out!! Anyway it made me think that a few people might also be thinking of shedding a bit of their coat now that summer in nearly upon us, and so in the middle of May we will be starting a fitness campaign called ‘Pedal for Paws’. This is an idea that has been thought up by some of our volunteers, who find it quite amusing that Aunty Lynne bought an electric bike in an effort to get fit, but has never really managed to ride it. The group will be aimed at anyone who would like to start riding a bike, but is a little nervous or hasn’t ridden one for a while. You don’t even need to have your own bike as there are plenty of local places who will hire them. Full details will be launched on our Facebook page later in the month, but it sounds like fun, although I am not sure that I will be fit enough to chase alongside!

Enough of all this slimming malarkey – who baked doggie biscuits for Easter? Sadly at the time of writing the rescue had not received one single entry into its photo competition, perhaps all the dogs ate them before pictures could be taken! A bit disappointing but watch this space for our online summer competition.

Don’t forget you can follow me on my own Facebook Group - www.facebook. com/groups/freddiesfrolicks

That’s about all for this month –hope to see you on the 29th and in the meantime…

Licks & woofs, Freddie

Torri Youth

As we are now looking to summer evenings, don't miss out on the activities and projects we have on offer both at Torrington Methodist Church and offsite.

If you’re aged between 10-17, registering with us to participate in our activities is easy, just scan the QR code and complete our online membership form.

Some projects have limited spaces, book yours by speaking to a youth worker or emailing You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.

We have a photography project starting in May, ‘Through your Eyes’, which we hope will lead to a display of young people's work in the winter term.

We want young people to capture May

Fair, or your favourite place in Torrington, the landscape, places of interest or just what you see in your town?

Please remember, if taking photos with people in them, always better to ask the person’s permission first, even if it's your friends/family, they might not want their

photo taken!

We have photography consent forms available for you to use, please ask your youth worker.

We can also update you with some exciting news, the shelter project is getting nearer the target, thank you to everyone who has fundraised, donated and given grant funding for this project.

We are looking to have a community fundraising day in the park in the summer, so watch this space!

Do you have skills or experience of working with young people?

Would you like to gain new skills, training in youth work?

If you are over 18, would like to volunteer and are interested in joining our committed staff team, please get in touch. For enquiries email sec. torriyouth@gmail.com, or contact paula. ftorriyouth@gmail.com

Paula Fuller, Senior Youth Worker, Torri Youth

MAY events at the plough

Great Live Music in May at The Plough Arts Centre!

We have a fantastic line up this month, of live theatre, NTLive Satellite, workshops and exhibitions. It must also be said that music lovers will be very spoilt for choice!

Those who like to perform can join our new Open Mic Night on 11th May. These monthly sessions offer a friendly space to air your creations or share your passions, in an informal space. You can share or perform poems, rap, or acoustic songs of your own, or that you admire. Keep calm and carry on raving because the famous Devon Sessions collective are back, with ‘A Royal Session’ on Sat 6 May. Expect an intimate night of top DJs including Andy Manston, the Devon Sessions Crew and Guest DJs. Book early to avoid disappointment!

For the first time ever in the UK, fans can experience the Eurovision Grand Final Live on the big screen – and it’s coming to The Plough! We’re very excited at the thought of a night of crowd pleasing performances and a potential UK win! We hope you can join us for this historic event, which will be a fundraiser

for Ukraine and The Plough.

If you’re into Roots music then Stevie Ray Latham and Small Town Jones could be right up your street. Stevie Ray Latham has built a reputation for complex lyricism, transcendent melodies and perpetual reinvention. Small Town Jones is the musical project of Devon based artist Jim Jones. The last few years have seen Jim making noticeable waves, garnering great reviews and high profile appearances.

Later in the month, we warmly welcome back Albert Lee, one of the World’s finest guitarists. He’s appeared with Glen Campbell, Dave Edmunds, Dolly Parton, Joan Armatrading, Ricky Scaggs and Joe Cocker. Tickets are flying for this one, so hurry to secure yours!

If folk music is more your thing, Hannah Sanders and Ben Savage will join us at the end of May. Hannah Sanders has an alluring mystique and a voice of disarming purity that massages your senses. Ben Savage is a bubbling ferment of energy and infectious enthusiasm, seemingly able to play any instrument you put in front of him with grace and favour.

And finally, DAISI is proud to present The Melting Pot at the end of the month; a musical feast showcasing the talents of young North Devon musicians. Spend an afternoon immersed in a mix of all musical genres, from folk, rock, classical ensembles and everything in-between.

We hope to welcome you soon!

Your Plough Arts Centre

MAY at the Plough

Tues 2 May

Exhibition: (until 16 May) Compost by Laura Porter Tues – Sat, 10.30am – 4pm

Plough Prism & Motion Dance every Tues in term time 10.30am/1.30pm

Ploughcappella Community Choir every Tues in term time 7.30pm The Gallery at The Plough Weds 3 May

Dance Workshop: Resource Dance with Becca Parkinson The Plough 6pm

Thurs 4 May

Plough Youth Scriptwriting Group & every Thurs in term time 4:30pm

Poetry/Spoken Word: Plough Storytelling Circle

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 7:30pm Sat 5 May

Music: Local bands night 8pm Sat 6 May

Plough Youth Theatre 3-5yrs / 6-7yrs / 8-12 yrs / 13-18yrs & every Sat term time 10.15am/11.30am/1pm

Plough Youth Creative Dance 8-18yrs & every Sat term time 3pm

Music: Devon Sessions presents A Royal Session 7pm

Mon 8 May

Workshop: Moon Circle ThePlough@ StAnne's, Barnstaple 7pm

Wed 10 May

Theatre: 'Quintessence' by Emily Carding (+ 'Tales From Set' a talk by Susan Luciani) 10:30am

Thurs 11 May

Theatre: 'Quintessence' by Emily Carding (+ 'Tales From Set' a talk by Susan Luciani) 10:30am

Workshop: Crystal Sound Bath Meditation

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 6:30pm

Theatre: 'Shadowless' by Susan Luciani

7:30pm

Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Bygone

Brothel Tour ThePlough@StAnne's 7:30pm

Music: The Plough Open Mic

The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre 8pm

Fri 12 May

Theatre: 'Quintessence' by Emily Carding (+ 'Tales From Set' a talk by Susan Luciani) 10:30am

Workshop: Gong Bath Meditation

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 7pm

Theatre: 'Shadowless' by Susan Luciani

7:30pm

Sat 13 May

Workshop - Visual Arts: Square Work

Basketry 2-day Workshop ThePlough@ StAnne's, 10am

Workshop - Visual Arts: Terracotta Pots for your garden Pottery Workshop

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 10am

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

Theatre: 'Quintessence' by Emily Carding (+ 'Tales From Set' a talk by Susan Luciani) 3:30pm

Theatre: 'Shadowless' by Susan Luciani

7:30pm

Music: Eurovision Grand Final Live! 7:30pm

Mon 15 May

Theatre: 'Quintessence' by Emily Carding (+ 'Tales From Set' a talk by Susan Luciani)

10:30am

Weds 17 May

Dance: Resource Dance with Becca

Parkinson

Dance Studio at The Plough 6pm

Thurs 18 May

Workshop: Deep Rest Healing Meditation

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 7:30pm

Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Town, Rail & River Haunted History Tour

ThePlough@StAnne's, 7:30pm

Fri 19 May

Music: Stevie Ray Latham & Small Town Jones 8pm

Sat 20 May

Exhibition: Andrew Hardwick - Lost Landscapes

Sat 20 May until 24 Jun 10am – 4pm

Artists Wall: Art on Friday group exhibition until 24 Jun

Workshop - Visual Arts: Bluebells in

Watercolours ThePlough@StAnne's, 10am Workshop - Visual Arts: Floral Woodcut Print Workshop ThePlough@StAnne's, 10:30am

Music: Albert Lee 8pm

Thurs 25 May

Thestival: A Celebration of North Devon School Drama and Youth Theatre 7pm

Music: Iona Lane 8pm ThePlough@ StAnne's

Workshop - Visual Arts: Explore MultiColour Monoprinting Half Day Workshop

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 10am

Sat 27 May

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

Workshop - Visual Arts: Illumination Calligraphy Half Day Workshop

ThePlough@StAnne's, 1:30pm

Exhibition Preview 2pm: Andrew HardwickLost Landscapes Sat 27 to Mon 29 May

Barnstaple Arts Festival Selling Exhibition: ThePlough@StAnne's Workshop Providers

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 10am4pm

Music: Hannah Sanders & Ben Savage 8pm

Sun 28 May

Workshop - Visual Arts: Introduction to Soap Making Half Day Workshop

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 10am

Workshop - Visual Arts: Watercolour Seascape Half Day Workshop

ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple 1:30pm

Mon 29 May

Workshop - Visual Arts: Gargoyle Clay Modelling Half Day Workshop ThePlough@ StAnne's, Barnstaple 10am

Workshop - Visual Arts: Plant Support Willow Weaving Workshop ThePlough@ StAnne's, Barnstaple 1:30pm

Weds 31 May

Music: The Melting Pot 2pm

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

Our Breath-Taking Planet

How I miss the glory days of college! Do you remember college? Or perhaps, your years after college? Did you have a break year? A lot of people do – and why shouldn’t you? It’s beautiful, refreshing, like having a hot bath after a long run. Well, let me tell you, I did. And just like much of the population, I went travelling. Travelled the country; travelling the continent; travelled the world! It was a heart-warmingly delightful time. So, when I hear these folks going on about “Travel is a foolish waste of time!” I can’t help but say something. And I imagine some of your heads are turned, too. Today I’m speaking for us “travel freaks” to show you the beauty of adventure, and maybe next time you’ll be doing so too.

For starters, travelling, as we all know, is culturally enriching. There’s nothing that opens your heart to the world more than having the chance to mingle with a community so wildly different than your own. It is truly magical. If we want to achieve this world peace and equality, I don’t believe that travel is just helpful, but absolutely essential to show people more than what the fairy tales describe, and more than what education can teach. People need such experiences to feel the warmth of another culture, which only seems like a distant story to those who don’t travel.

Besides, why should we waste such a breath-taking planet like the one we live on? How should we be expected to truly appreciate our Earth if we are bound to the confines from which we are born? You must let us free ourselves from the shackles of our birthplace and

experience the fresh beauty of the other regions of our planet. There are people being sent to space and back every single day, missions planned to Mars, and yet you tell us not to travel our own Earth. How are we to progress as not only a society, but as a civilisation, if we cannot utilise our gear to experience the fullness of this planet?

Now, I know the counter arguments. And I don’t necessarily disagree with all of them. For example, the amount of fatalities caused by travelling – but to that I ask: should we ban swimming pools because some people drown? Of course not. It sounds silly, doesn’t it? Then why ban travelling because of the fatalities? People claim that we’re travelling “further and faster” every day and it’s becoming increasingly dangerous, but I have to disagree. Travelling fast is perfectly safe if done properly and under the right conditions. Therefore, I see no reason why we should ban travelling altogether. I have been asked why I can’t just enjoy my own country, but that limits the term ‘travelling’ to just plane travel. To enjoy even my own country, I will have to navigate by car, bus, bike, whatever you can think of. But nonetheless, it is travelling.

So now we must ask ourselves the question. Is a life full of entrapment and monotony worth the defamation of our busy world today? Personally, I believe the answer is a resounding no, and I won’t sit here idly by as extremists try to rid this gorgeous Earth of our most efficient way of appreciating it. Will you?

Riley Bailey, Year 11

Year 11 are busy preparing for their GCSE exams. For English Language GCSE, pupils plan and craft two pieces of writing in very different styles: an argumentative piece and a description or story. Pupils were recently set this prompt and it inspired some great articles:

“People have become obsessed with travelling ever further and faster. However, travel is expensive, dangerous, damaging and a foolish waste of time!” Write an article for a news website in which you argue your point of view on this statement.

Travelling Isn’t Foolish: It’s Fun!

Born in a little village? Me too. Fear leaving that safe place? Me too. But don’t knock it until you try it. For years on end, I wanted to help endangered animals in their natural habitats. For example: turtles, dolphins, certain fishes. However, I couldn’t achieve my dreams in a rural countryside village. Step outside of that comfort zone and face your fears. Book those one way plane tickets to your desired destinations.

Travelling is essential and the opportunity to travel as far as your pockets takes you is indeed something everyone should experience. Being young, wild and free doesn’t last forever – as some may know. This is why you need to do it while you can. Imagine a heart broken young twenties woman barricading herself in her bedroom tied to her phone. There is only one answer to that. Travel.

In my opinion, travelling is the solution

to any problem. Experiencing different cultures, eating a range of exotic foods and dancing in the beach. Any place you go, your eyes are fulfilled with mountains of urban colours. Almost as if somebody has set off a confetti canon. Exploring, learning and living life like those in different countries certainly uncovers the real you.

Greta Thunberg. A hot-headed girl who would find any reason to sway you off the idea of travelling. I understand if everyone hopped on a plane the carbon footprint and climate change will be affected negatively. However, solutions can be made and things can be put in place so it isn’t as impacted. Don’t get me wrong though – global warming is a devastating situation but it shouldn’t stop you from thriving and diving all around the world.

Are your parents the ones holding you back? Well, make sure they know that under 8% of people o the last 5 years who have travelled have experienced and accident. Meaning it’s highly unlikely. The majority of the time we visit new places to learn, not to find trouble. Mums, dads, carers: let your son or daughter travel. Let them find happiness in what they love to do. Travelling

Born in that little village and don’t want to leave home? Well, we all know that after you travel, the “don’t want to leave home” will change to: ”I don’t want to come home.”

Hannah Burton, Year 11

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

Bird’s Eye View

Isoared gracefully over the picturesque, turquoise ocean. The waves gently lapped against the golden sands like a mother’s touch nursing their baby. Wooden fishing boats, which were just a speck of colour against the ocean, bobbed up and down as the tide rolled in. Above me, wispy trails of clouds were being painted against the blue canvas of the sky, and I longed to be able to breeze through their layers of cotton. As I began my descent, the familiar smells of a wellused fishing village wafted their way up my nose and I shivered with pleasure and happiness.

I landed in my usual spot on a mossy cobble wall that still stood the test of time. I ruffled my feathers and stretched my wings. Almost immediately, I strolled over to the market to see what I could find for a meal. While this was only a small market the place was bustling and full to the brim with generous helpings of very food imaginable. Some stalls were stacked with meats of all types. Sausage, steak, ham, beef, gammon, pork and lamb. But most importantly. Bacon. Layer upon layer of bacon was stacked as far as the eye could see in every direction. The glossy slices of pure delight beckoned to me, tempting me to take a bite. I knew that I couldn’t but the beautiful smell of the juicy bacon grows to be too much. I had to leave.

Around the corner, I found people making themselves busy with their work. I try my best to steer clear as they don’t take kindly to strangers. Occasionally, a little boy or girl runs over ti me but their parents always call them back. Sometimes people drop their food and I carefully make my way over to my prize – gulping down every scrap I can until I feel as though I could burst.

The sun begins to set on the ancient village, closing its curtains for the night. The dark mist of night descends and people begin to leave until I am the only one still there.

Wondering through the empty wooden stalls, I feel a sense of loneliness ease its way into my mind: an unwanted stranger intruding into my life. Its dark and dangerous tentacles of confusion and sadness pry their way through the sunshine and peace, leaving nothing to remain. I lay down in a cold and dusty stall which ahs long been disused. The darkness is absolute and it encompasses me like the walls of a prison.

I hear myself calling although my mouth is closed. I hear the ruffle of feathers although I lay still. I open my eyes and there I stand in front of myself - only…it’s not me. Someone has come for me and she has brought the sun with her.

Jesse Binmore, Year 11

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

In April we placed our first order with a Somerset company who produce a brilliant range of organic household products - castille soap, washing up liquid, laundry liquid and more. They're a small family business with the very highest ethical standards and supply both retail and bulk sizes of their range. A number of us have trialled their castille soap and laundry liquid and have been very pleased with the results. OWBG is delighted to find such a company that really does walk their environmental talk – the products come in glass, not plastic, the pumps are super sturdy and long-lasting, bulk containers can be returned for reuse with the next order, the products themselves are super concentrated e.g. just 5 tsp for a laundry wash. Fragrances are entirely natural, coming from high quality essential oils, alongside non-scented products too.

As I write, I'm also in the process of negotiating terms with another Somerset company, this time producing fresh traditional tempeh which comes vacuum packed and long dated, which makes it practical for OWBG to order for our monthly collection day. So naturally, as tempeh is such a delicious and useful food and not just for Christmas, (Dec Crier 22), it's the obvious subject for the following....

Wellbeing Tip: Tempeh is a traditional fermented food originally from Indonesia that's packed with powerful plant protein and a great source of vitamins and dietary fibre. It is made using a living culture (Rhizopus oligosporus), that

breaks down the soy beans making it easier for us to digest them and benefit from all the good stuff, like calcium and zinc, that are normally locked away inside. It also tastes great, with a unique nutty savoury flavour that works well in all kinds of dishes and with all kinds of flavours, sauces and marinades. It is incredibly versatile and can be cubed, sliced, crumbled, grilled, fried, steamed or boiled!

Whilst tofu is more cheese or curd like, tempeh is meatier and gives you oomph! You can buy it either fresh or frozen in wholefood shops and now even in the supermarket, although it must be said that many of the supermarket ones aren't made using traditional methods and therefore lack the classic depth of flavour and health benefits.

From Paul Pitchford's 'Healing with Wholefoods - Oriental Traditions & Modern Nutrition'

For crispy tempeh with a savoury flavour, slice thinly and fry.

Serve small quantities when fried. This improves digestibility.

Store in a cool place or freeze. Don't worry if it gets greyish and has an ammonia smell (because of sporulation). However, discard if the smell becomes unpleasant.

Do not eat tempeh raw. It needs to be thoroughly cooked.

Suggested seasonings: 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp curry powder; 1/2 tsp each coriander, cumin and ginger powder; 1/2 tsp grated ginger

A good way to prepare tempeh is by

first adding the whole block to a pan of boiling water which is seasoned with a tsp of good quality tamari, a 1" piece of kombu and a few slices of fresh ginger.

Simmer for 20 mins, remove from the pan and place between two side plates, using the plates to gently but firmly squeeze out the excess moisture, as you want the tempeh to be fairly dry for frying.

Then slice the block into either cubes or thin slices, whichever you prefer.

Sauté in a little of a lightly steamed coconut oil (steaming removes the coconut flavour without damaging the oil), adding a drop or two of tamari to each piece. Cook till golden and slightly crisp on the outside.

Just before serving, grate some ginger root, squeezing the root juice over the tempeh. Ginger juice has a mellowness and depth of flavour that dried powder does not. The result is delicious and hard to beat in my book.

Mary

Upcoming Grocery Final Order Dates: 11th May, 15th June

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 623307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

OWBG website: owbg.jimdofree.com

Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group

Email: owbg@protonmail.com

www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

The Plough Celebrates a New Beginning…

With a callout to New Venue Partners

Following recent news that Arts Council England has awarded regular core funding to The Plough Arts Centre, the multi-purpose arts and community venue in Great Torrington has become a National Portfolio Organisation (N.P.O.) and is announcing a range of new initiatives to establish Plough Hubs across northern Devon, support talent development and broaden the impact of its outreach and open air theatre festival.

For five years The Plough has worked with Barnstaple Town Council to develop ThePlough@StAnne’s in a beautiful Grade One listed 700 year old former chapel in the centre of the town. It now operates as a thriving arts hub, hosting performances, workshops, exhibitions, walks and talks, weddings and community arts events. The Plough wants to replicate this type of provision across northern Devon and welcomes emails of interest from local councils, village halls, schools and community groups etc. that would like to collaborate to create ‘The Plough@ our venue’. These hubs are likely to vary considerably in how they operate, given the varied nature of suitable spaces across the region, but The Plough is keen to start the conversation to see what is possible and to bring the arts directly into local communities. Interested groups and individuals contact richard@ theploughartscentre.org.uk or call him on 01805 622552.

Merton 01805 603924

www.themaltscoop.co.uk/info@themaltscoop.co.uk

Excellent home-made food served every day 12-2pm/6-9pm

Great selection of wines, real ales, ciders

Personally Supervised by Andrew & Janice Gist 01805 622364

Open fire and snug rooms

Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am

Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken

Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Waterways Society Guided Walk

Morgan

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bideford College

Abbotsham Rd, Bideford, EX39 3AR

Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50am1pm

Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 3pm @ The Plough

Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @ The Plough

Comedy 'Russell Kane' @ Devon Hall 8pm

Monday 8th

The new season's programme of Sunday afternoon walks starts on 26th May with a visit to the site of the Inclined Plane at Ridd. This is the place where the Rolle Canal was raised up about 43 feet from the valley floor near Weare Giffard to a level in the side of the valley that could be maintained all the way inland to the head weir at Rosemoor.

Historical Society AGM & Talks 'Beam

House & Quay' & John Oatway

Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @ Methodist Church

Film 'Wreck it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The Plough

Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough

Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough

Tuesday 9th

Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pm @ The Plough

Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 8pm @ The Plough

Wednesday 10th

St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am in St James Chapel

Torrington W.I @ Methodist Hall 7pm

Film 'I Wish' (PG) 8pm @ The Plough

Thursday 11th

St Michael's Church Said Mass 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by Walsingham cell in vicarage

Saturday 13th

depending on the season, flowering at the time of the

Advice Surgery with Geoffrey for an appointment ring 01237 email to tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox website www.geoffreycox.co.uk

Coffee Morning in aid of Wembworthy Church @ Chulmleigh Town Hall cakes, produce, draw prizes appreciated Major Walker MC Ceremony Memorial 11am (see article) Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30pm Doug 01805 622648 or Beryl 624294

Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm @ The Plough

Many people will have seen this site on previous walks but this year there have been developments over the winter that will make it well worth a repeat visit. The Heritage Lottery funded ‘Life's Journey’ project has produced a new pathway from the Tarka Trail down to the bottom of the Inclined Plane where two illustrated information boards have been installed to describe the saltmarsh habitat by the Torridge and the workings and purpose of the Rolle Canal. It is now possible to gain a far better understanding of the lay-out and workings of the inclined plane boat lift than was previously the case. The upper basin of the canal at the top of the incline has been cleared of scrub sufficiently to enable the outline of its banks to be clearly seen, and the way the railway subsequently cut through the northern end, destroying the top of the incline. This canal basin now supports an increasing population of Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a green flowered orchid) which,

Sunday 14th

The start of the walk Kiln, on the Weare Giffard Halfpenny Bridge, at Sunday 26th May. The distance over a mile but with plenty and discuss is likely couple of hours. A £2 to the Rolle Society's funds appreciated enable the Society volunteer work promote and maintain the Rolle Canal. Future walks will be 16th June, 28th July August. For further details email: hassallc@ymail.com

Film 'Great Expectations' 7.30pm High Bickington Cinema Music Coope Boyes & Simpson The Plough

01237 425357, but you'll probably to leave a message.

Our Hedgehogs Need You!!!!!!

Torrington Methodist Church Rev Peter Whatton 6.30pm Mrs Sheriff St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Ignatius Sunday Club in upper Film 'The Sessions' (15) 3pm The Plough

Monday 15th

Singing for Fun 7.30 -8.30pm

Bickington Community Centre Mini Mover Dance Session for 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington Community Centre

Tuesday 16th

For more information on joining Great Torrington Army Cadet Force please contact the Detachment Commander: SSI Charles Westley-Clark

2192clar@armymail.mod.uk or 07484 333 264

Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Beast 2pm @ The Plough

Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film

Friday 12th

'Hearing for You' Social group hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tues The Bickford Centre call 01271 Youth Club High Bickington Community Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pm Badminton Club 7pm Juniors

We parade on Tuesdays in the grounds of Great Torrington school from 18:50 until 21:15

Hedgehog Awareness Week way but why wait until then help? As spring is here and hopefully the weather improves our spiky friends will be up and about again. It’s been an extremely tough winter for them. changeable and wet weather has made it difficult for many them to find food or hibernate over the past months so many weak and need help. If you you had a resident hedgehog area last year please don’t a bowl of water and some them, placing it inside a feeding

Adults @ Bickington Community Cribbage pairs competition @ Arms 8pm Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ Plough note early start for long

CRIER COPY DEADLINE for ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon today please

PHILIP W

TAYLOR LLB

LEGAL CONSULTANT

Wednesday 17th

Free initial consultation & estimate, no obligation.

St Michael's Church Said Mass in St James Chapel Short Tennis @ High Bickington Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm

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

St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am in St James Chapel

Theatre Scottish Falsetto Puppet Theatre 7pm @ The Plough

Contact me for a free consultation.

Telephone: 01271 858482 or 07766 714503

Gallery Gig 'Judith Christie & Diane Calvert 8.15pm @ The Plough

Email: philipwardtaylor@outlook.com

Royal British Legion 3rd Weds month 7pm @ GT Conservative Film 'No' 8pm @ The Plough Atherington Acorns, fun, friendly for parents & children aged 09.30am-11am @ Atherington every Wednesday term time.

Torrington Methodist Church

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

Sunday Worship 10.30am at Church. Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom email sarahrichards185@gmail.com to request the link.

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

Our premises (various rooms, incl. wifi, projector) are available to hire, see website or phone Sheila 01805 622949. Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.

The Versatility of Herbs

If you have a small but sunny garden, it can be difficult to decide what to grow. Culinary herbs tick all the boxes because they make your kitchen creations taste good, most have beautiful foliage and the flowers attract pollinators. They can be grown in the vegetable garden, mixed borders, raised beds and pots.

Many herbs can be used as companion planting in the vegetable garden. For example, basil, mint and chives help to repel aphids. Parsley flowers attract beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps, ladybirds and damselflies and sage deters cabbage moth and carrot fly. Herbs for the pot are at their most flavoursome before the flowers develop and you need to pick when the aromatic oils in the plants are at their highest levels, i.e. in the morning after the dew has dried. When harvesting, pinch out the top fresh growth which will also encourage a bushy plant.

You will probably have more than you can use, so have a go at drying or freezing any surplus before they start to lose flavour. Dry herbs on a tray by arranging them evenly and in a single layer. To freeze, simply chop and add to water in ice cubes.

Herbs grow best in full sun in moistureretentive fertile soil with plenty of organic matter incorporated. Annual herbs such

as coriander and dill can be sown on a fortnightly basis for a continuous supply throughout the summer. Cuttings of bay, marjoram, mint, rosemary, sage, tarragon and thyme can be taken from

late summer to early autumn and root quite readily.

Try growing strongly growing herbs such as mint and sage in large pots to prevent them from taking over your herb bed. A mix of small herbs in a large container can be placed near the kitchen door for easy access when you want to pop something tasty in the pot.

If you want plants for a sunny spot that are beautiful, attract bees and butterflies and have a use, then culinary herbs are the perfect choice.

Sheila Dearing Garden Technical Services Officer

Planting a container of herbs ©RHS/Tim Sandall Rosemoor Herb Garden ©RHS/Neil Hepworth

Half Term