Torrington Crier November 2024

November 2024

The Crier is produced 10 times a year on behalf of the community, by The Crier Community Interest Company. 5900 copies are distributed throughout Great Torrington and the rural district.

Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity

202801 Voucher Distribution Day

When: Friday, December 6th 2024, 9:30AM - 2:00PM

Where: Great Torrington Town & Community Hall

Eligible households can receive vouchers to spend in local businesses.

To qualify, you must be able to show that you:

• Live within the Great Torrington Parish boundary.

• Are registered to vote for at least 12 months before December 6th, 2024. And receive one or more of the following benefits:

• State Retirement Pension

• Attendance Allowance or Constant Attendance Allowance

• Disability Living Allowance

• Employment and Support Allowance

• Incapacity Benefit

• Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit

• Personal Independence Payment

Please note:

• ONE claim per household only.

• If you're applying for a relative or friend, you MUST bring a letter of authorisation signed by the recipient and also

• Paper evidence of entitlement to the benefits above which MUST be shown on the day to be able to receive the Vouchers.

• Applications can only be accepted during the specified hours

Blackberry Farm Shop

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?

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, 07912 693 858

E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

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

Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA.

Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk

Proof reading: Sam Williams

Town Distribution: The Joy family & Esther Williams

Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community

Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

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 07443 491972, 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.

Anyone using the information provided by The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Crier from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use. The Crier does not endorse or recommend any product, service or information found within said articles. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to The Crier belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Crier or its team.

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

Great Torrington Calendar 2025

ACome & enjoy the magic of Zumba!

Dance , exercise & most of all have fun!

It’s more than a workout!

You will leave feeling happy & energised. It is for all ages & fitness levels, you don’t need to be able to dance...

First Class Free - no tie in

Thursday 6.15pm-7.15pm

Contact Wendy to book your free class t: 07787 607 322 e: wendy.cox@btinternet.com

Scout Hall , Gas Lane Torrington EX38 7BE

Library News

t time of writing, a superb selection of photos have been sent in, selected by two town councillors, put into the calendar design process and we have just seen the printed-proof. So in the not-too-distant future the 2025 calendar will be available to buy. Photographers featured in the calendar will receive their own FREE copy of the calendar by way of a ‘thank you’ - photos will also appear on the www.OneGreatTorrington.uk website. With big photos and big boxes to write in, get your copy for £8 or two for £15 (cash only please and exact money appreciated) from Whiskers Pet Centre, Duffy’s Home Hardware or Collectability.

We are also going to sell a small batch online, with a small additional charge to cover postage and packaging, via the www.OneGreatTorrington.uk website. Last year some calendars went as far as New Zealand and the USA! Keep an eye on our social media - www.facebook.com/onegreattorrington - for further updates.

We hope that in future years the calendar will be self-sustainable and also provide a small amount of funds for projects around the town.

Please keep sending in your photos for next year’s calendar, and get involvedgt.futuregroup@gmail.com.

Ian Ashelford

Torrington Community Hospital League of Friends

It is with deep regret that following an Extraordinary Meeting held on Tuesday October 1st 2024, we have reluctantly made the decision to disband the Torrington Community Hospital League of Friends. Further details will be available at a later date.

Ann Ayre, Chair - League of Friends

One Great TorringtonTown Website

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

Are you a new shop owner, trader, club, society, etc., in or around town? If yes, welcome! Are you aware you can get FREE advertising on the town website? Do you have a listing already, have you checked it recently or perhaps have updates or new photos to upload?

Have a look at www.

OneGreatTorrington.uk to log in to your account and to find your listing, you can do it online, anywhere at any time. If you are having problems please contact us via email gt.futuregroup@ gmail.com or via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/

OneGreatTorrington

Little Torrington Victory Hall

This year’s Christmas Party is on Saturday 14th December 7pm for 7.30pm start, come along and join us for an enjoyable and festive evening.Tickets £15 per person, to include a sit-down meal followed by music and dancing until midnight. Cash bar and raffle. To book call Jen Hood on 01805 622433. Everyone welcome – ‘tis the season to be jolly!

BESPOKE PICTURE FRAMERS

Stibb Hollow Farm, Langtree, Torrington, EX38 8LP Tel: 01805 601777 or email mferry8@yahoo.co.uk

Personal and professional picture framing service

Framing everything from prints and paintings to magazines, medals and more Repairs: Replacing broken glass, rehanging slipped artwork and replacing damaged frames

For a free quote please visit us at the workshop Visit: www.blackdogframing.co.uk

What’s on this month: Meet-up Mondays Start Again!

As the weather turns colder and the heating goes on, we are pleased to announce that we will be starting our extra opening hours on Monday 25th November 10-1pm. We will be providing free hot drinks, cake, biscuits and a warm welcome. Come on in and stay for a chat.

We will also be offering activities, including craft sessions, Postcard Pals, board games and more. The extra Monday mornings will run every week (except 30th December) until mid-March. There will of course also be our full library service too.

Photography for Wellbeing - NEW Come along for six sessions of relaxing walking photography for adults. Bring your camera phone or digital camera if you have one - complete beginners welcome. Meet at the library before going out into Torrington. The group will meet once a month on Mondays, starting 11th November 10am-12pm. Contact us to sign up.

An Evening with International Bestselling Author Sarah Pearse Friday 1st November 7pm for 7.30pm We are still taking bookings for our next author event.

South Devon-based author Sarah Pearse (The Sanitorium, The Retreat) will be with us for the evening to discuss her work and read from her new thriller, ‘The Wilds’.

Sarah’s debut novel, ‘The Sanitorium’,

was an instant No.1 Sunday Times and New York Times Top Ten bestseller in hardback, and a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick. It has been translated into over 30 languages and has sold over half a million copies.

Sarah will also be taking questions and will be happy to sign copies of her books which will be on sale.

Tickets are £7 each and include a glass of wine or soft drink and nibbles. Booking essential, via the library.

Craft Club for Adults

Do you have various craft projects that you are working on? Would you like to bring them along on a Thursday afternoon to continue and share with like-minded people? Our club meets fortnightly which is 7th and 21st November 1.30-3.30pm. Donation of £1 for refreshments appreciated.

One 2 One IT support

Our volunteer Perry is here to offer support every other Thursday morning (by appointment only). This is a relaxed session where you can get an answer to your particular query over a tea or coffee. Please contact us to book if you would like some assistance understanding your smartphone, laptop or tablet.

We look forward to seeing you!

Please refer to our Facebook page for up-to-date information @ Torringtonlibrarydevon

For assistance with any queries please contact us by emailing torrington.

library@librariesunlimited.org.uk or telephone 01805 622107. Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092. Librariesunlimited.org. uk

BIG SING!

Date for your diary. The return of this popular celebration of the great story of Christmas! Pannier Market, Wednesday 11th December, 6.30-7.15pm. Featuring Blue Coat Junior School, Town Band, Churches in Torrington. Come and celebrate Christmas with us. More details to follow!

Torridge Walk & Talk

A nice way to get fit, make friends and enjoy yourself! Every Tuesday and Wednesday, with a variety of walks for all levels. Just turn up and join in for free. Full details on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk or call Steve 01237 421528.

What’s On at The Town Hall

So far this year we have enjoyed lots of music, dance and fun at the Town Hall, and this is set to continue into next year. We love it when the roof is lifting with the pumping sounds of a dance, or the glorious harmonies of the Torringtones!

Weddings and private parties are also a joy to help plan, facilitate and work at, and we look forward to future events.

If you would like to hire the Hall, Undercroft, or Oak Room for your event, please contact us to talk through your vision. Apart from weddings, birthdays and other celebrations, what about hosting a dinner – or even doing your own pop-up restaurant! We have a fabulous commercial kitchen, admired by professionals who have used our facilities. Always happy to show you around.

Coming up…

The Torringtones. This Choir started a little later than planned, on the 9th October, but from the sounds coming out of the hall were a feast for our ears.

If you would like to attend, come along and meet Rhi and Tom on Wednesdays at 7pm.

Dancing. If you’ve attended swing dance classes with Neil and Kerry from Step into Swingtime, you’ll have probably already spun round the dance floor at our monthly Jamboree. If you haven’t – you don’t know what you are missing! Every Thursday from 7th November (no class on 14th November):

Beginners/refreshers 7-8pm; Social dancing 8-8.30pm; Improvers 8.30-9pm. Neil and Kerry will also be holding some new workshops for Lindy Hop and Shim Sham: Lindy Hop 17th November 11am-1pm; Shim Sham 12th January and 19th January 11am-1pm We would love to host dance classes for children, if any teachers are looking for a venue?

Halloween fancy dress dance 2nd November 7pm. Dance through the

decades up to the 80s – come in your spooky best! No entrance fee and cheap bar, but a donation is always welcome.

Project Dance Devon. We are delighted Project Dance Devon has hired the Great Hall from 2pm on Sunday 1st December, for a fantastic afternoon of dance and music. Tea Dance, tuition, tea buffet, performance and more! Look out on Facebook or posters at the Town Hall nearer the time for more information.

Christmas Ball Saturday 14th December. Festive frolics with Fine Whines - the phenomenal duo with the big band sound and, of course, our resident DJ the Sultan of Swing playing all your festive favourites - make up a party and come and join us! All this, no entry charge, and our own Town Hall bar team on hand to serve cheap drinks and make it a great night!

More dates for your diary… Knit & Natter Exhibition of WorkFriday 8th and Saturday 9th November. Come and view the incredible creations the team from Knit & Natter has produced over the years. If you would like to join Knit & Natter for a wholesome morning of knitting, crochet, cake and chat, come along to the Town Hall on Wednesdays from 10am-12pm.

Nikki Kitt Medium Thursday 14th November 7.30pm. Nikki has been to the Town Hall since 2022 and each year her popularity increases!

Please contact her direct for tickets. Psychicmediumnikkikitt.com or ring 07788 756 773.

Great Torrington Lights Switch-on Saturday 30th November. We will be in the Undercroft ready for the traditional lights switch-on by the Mayor and a good old sing song. Wrap up warm and bring the family down to the Square. Hot drinks and mulled wine will be available. More information will be posted by the Town Council.

Girl Guides Christmas Fete Tuesday 3rd December in the Undercroft from 5.30pm. Please come along and support this event, more information to follow, and look out for their posters which will be distributed around the Town and at the Town Hall.

Great Torrington Town & Lands

Charity Distribution Day Friday 6th December 9.30 to 2pm Great Hall. The 2024 Distribution Day is being held at the Town Hall, and our Trustees and volunteers will be on hand to offer you mince pies, a hot drink and an opportunity to catch up with old friends in the Undercroft area. We can help if you need the lift to take you straight into the main hall to collect your vouchers and there are disabled toilets on each floor. We all look forward to seeing you Lunch Club. Look out on Facebook and at the Town Hall for the upcoming dates of Lunch Club. Good value homecooked meals by Rosie and her team. Reclamation 21st December 7pm The boys with support acts are back in town (hall)! More details to follow. Annual Christmas Fayre 16th November 10-3pm. The town comes alive with the sounds, smells and sights of Christmas! Beautiful hand-crafted gifts, local produce food and drink -something for everyone. Join us for a glass of mulled wine, a mince pie or two and to welcome the season of goodwill

Our grateful thanks… If you have recently enjoyed a party, dance, wedding celebration, or a community event, you would have seen our fabulous new disco and mood lights. This has been possible thanks to grants from Cllr Chris Bright and the Townlands and Almhouse Trust. We also have received a donation from Rotary, who have kindly paid for two computer tablets.The Buildings Preservation Trust who own the town hall uses all proceeds raised from events, grants, and donations for the running and upkeep of this historic building. Please contact us on 07944 639739 or admin@greattorrington-townhall.org.

A Festive Invitation to The Pannier Market

16th November 9am to 3pm

When you visit Great Torrington Christmas Fair on 16th November, the Pannier Market will be filled to the brim with festive goodies: there will be a huge selection of unique gifts available from our market traders including everything from beauty products to bags, paintings and handmade clothing.

Our shops in the arcade have an amazing array of offerings too: crystals, cards, cheese, chutneys, clothing, incense, musical instruments, decorations, kitchenware, crafts and household items.

Be sure to pop over to the market and have a browse, meet the wonderful traders and keep an eye out for some Christmassy characters and seasonal specials!!

Castle Hill Creatives Christmas Art & Craft Fair

Saturday 16th November 10am-4pm

Castle Community Centre Torrington EX38 8AA

Castle Hill Creatives is a well-established group of artists and makers based in and around Great Torrington, who have become well known for the high quality of their work. Much of their work reflects the beauty and distinctive qualities of the local environment and many have sold and exhibited their work across the country.

The group’s first exhibition was held in 2020, and with two events held a year, this is now their ninth event.

A wide variety of art and craft will be on display, all locally made. As well as ceramics and jewellery, there will be glass work and paintings, print and textiles, knitwear and sculpture. As well as ‘buying local’ and helping to support the local artist community, you will meet the artist and have something to cherish from your visit.

There will be around 20 exhibitors in the hall. Little Torrington W.I. will be raising funds by serving mince pies and mulled wine from 11am. For further information about the press notice you may also contact Gill Hedge on gillhedge@gmail.com or telephone 07792 188 128; www. castlehillcreatives.co.uk.

Parish Church News

As we move towards the festive season, the Church is bustling with activities and we are excited to announce our annual Christmas Fair on November 16th, from 10am to 3pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a day of festive fun, browse a variety of stalls, and pick up some unique Christmas gifts. There will be homemade crafts, delicious treats, and a raffle. We welcome everyone to join us for this joyful event! Looking ahead, Kennford Productions will be performing ‘A Christmas Carol’ on December 15th at 7:30pm in the Church. This timeless holiday classic is perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit. Tickets are available at the door: £10 for adults and £5 for children. We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of festive entertainment!

Merry Caper

Everybody!

Are you looking for a challenge and some fun?

Is it time to enter Torrie’s famous run?

Will you see a red nosed reindeer? As you’re wading through the flood Will you keep the marshals smiling as you slither on the mud?

So here it is… the Christmas Caper Everybody’s having fun! Look to the finish line It’s only a ten-mile run!

The Christmas Caper is a challenging BUT fun race where fancy dress is strongly encouraged. There'll be a prize for the very best dressed runner, as there will be for 1st three overall male and female and 1st in veteran age categories. We often sell out or get close to it, so if you’re interested don’t hesitate too long before going for it! The club donates much of the race proceeds to local charities or causes, often presented at Round the Tree on May Fair.

Some practicalities:

* The race starts at 11am on Sunday December 22nd at Torrington Rugby Club

* Online entries only. NO entries on the day

* Parking will not be possible on site but there will be plenty nearby

* Food + hot drinks + bar will be open

* Changing rooms onsite, but no muddy shoes in the clubhouse!

Please see our Facebook page or website to find out more about the event and details on how to enter: www.facebook.com/ TorringtonAmateurAthleticsClub www. torringtonaac.co.uk/christmas-caper If this is not your scene but you’re interested in running and keeping fit, we offer weekly club sessions every Wednesday meeting at Great Torrington School at 6.15pm. Please drop us a line at torringtonathleticsclub@gmail.com

The TAAC team

Great Torrington Commons

Autumn is here and the weather will be getting colder, but the Commons are open every day for us all to enjoy. It’s a big job for the Conservators and our Rangers to look after them. It costs over £70,000 a year to maintain, protect and improve the 365 acres. So please help us where you can by visiting our events and shops or by joining the Commons 365 Supporters group. The details are all below.

We will be doing our famous ‘Water, Wine or maybe Cider’ lucky dip stall at Castle Hill Community Centre (1646) on November 16th. We were invited by Castle Hill Creatives who will have craft stalls in the main hall.

Just as a reminder that our bookshop at Dartington Crystal has moved into the main shop. This means that we will now be open 7-days-a-week. One thing that has changed is that you cannot leave any donations of books there now. So please contact me Andrew Giles on 07956 366 390 or email chair@ torringtoncommos.org to arrange a different drop off address or to see if I may be able to collect from you. The shop is doing really well and raising a lot of money to look after your Commons. You will find a vast selection of books in the shop all priced at £1, £2 or £3. Just visit the shop, select your books and pay at the main till: by either dropping cash in the collection box or paying by card at the till.

Felicity at Collectability continues to

sell a selection of local interest books for us, as well as postcards and foreign coins, so please go along to her shop in Well Street and have a look. She has managed to raise an exceptional amount of £508 for us so far. I will be delivering more local interest books to her as I get them.

Webbers Estate Agents and Tarka Valley Railway continue to sell our teddy bears. At £5 each they must be an ideal stocking filler for Christmas. These bears are brand new with tags and they were donated to us. We have about 700 of them in stock.

The Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group continues to grow, with more members signing up each week. We are into our 5th year since the project started, and we raise around £4,000 per year.

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

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

The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per month, or a £24 annual donation,

which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer. You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to you.

Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple:

Option 1: Cut out or photocopy the application form in the Crier and post it to the address on the form. You can pay by standing order or by sending a cheque for £24.

Option 2: visit the website www. torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you can apply online. Here you have the option of paying by PayPal or standing order annually or monthly. You can also print an application form to post in with a cheque.

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

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

Andrew Giles, Torrington Commons Conservators Chair

Current

TORRINGTON ARMS

Thursday - Monday 11.30am-4.30pm

The Globe Hotel Exciting Plans for Community Ownership

Many people will know that there have been efforts for years to try and save the Globe Hotel. Having been frustrated the first-time round, we are delighted to announce that the project is now live, at last.

A second chance

We were blocked back in 2022 when the original owner decided not to sell; we thought all our work had been for nothing. However, he then passed away and his executors reopened discussions, seeing the value of the offer to create a real opportunity for the town and the community.

Two benefactors have stepped in to safeguard the building on a short-term basis, giving the community a one-off chance to save The Globe. The chance depends on people coming together to secure long-term ownership.

The new project

We invite the community to play a key role in its revival, by joining our exciting plans to bring this cherished landmark back to life. Our goal is simple: to breathe life back into this historic asset, turning it into a vibrant hub that benefits the whole town. The project aims: Buy the building!

Save it from dereliction, fully renovate to restore its former glory

Create a vibrant hotel with high-quality accommodation and services

Open a full new restaurant and bar, in the heart of town

ZENITH HIRE

Great Torrington Commons Head Rangers Report

Hi all, I have been up to my chest in cold water as I had to clean out the Victorian pipes in Common Lake Pond. This is a yearly task and not one I look forward to doing. It needs doing to maintain the water flow back into the stream; otherwise the water will become stagnant. I did have my waders on but it was still cold. Luckily my height kept my head above the water; this is why Jason couldn’t do the job.

You may hear chainsaws early in the morning over the coming months. This is essential work that needs to be done in the autumn; we will try and not wake you up too early in the morning. We have done a lot of work around the monument site to improve the views. The Conservators have decided to wait until spring to do the Waterloo Monument unveiling day. So more details about this will follow. We will be working our way around the Commons during the winter, to open up the views from the benches on the many pathways. A lot of the benches do not have a memorial plaque on, so if you have a favourite bench and you would like to have a plaque, please get in touch for the details.

By the time you read this I will be back from my holiday abroad, I have looked forward to this as I didn’t get a holiday last year.

See you around town.

Create 20+ new year-round jobs

Work on a major new training facility for more employment

This is a unique opportunity for Torrington residents to shape the future of their town and bring The Globe hotel back to the heart and soul of the community.

We are currently setting up a Community Share Offer, giving everyone the opportunity to purchase a direct share in the building. These are not donations; you get a share certificate as a part-owner of the building, and you have the right to be consulted on the project as it develops – a genuine voice for the community. We will announce the launch date for the Share Offer in the

Big Al, Torrington Commons Head Ranger

month of November.

For more information, please visit www.theglobetorrington.co.uk or email us at info@theglobetorrington.co.uk.

Please help our local businesses and 'Think Local' whenever possible. Think Local editorial is free for advertisers! Please contact Esther Williams on 07912 693 858 for more information.

Property Market Place Tips

When it’s warm outside, you may want to keep things minimal and breezy in your home. But as the cold seeps in, you’ll start to miss those cosy, insulant layers that make you feel glad to be home. Thankfully, it doesn’t take much to bring back all your creature comforts and ready your home for lower temperatures. Here’s how to add a touch of warmth to your home, ready for the season ahead. Add warmth underfoot. Cold feet can offset any amount of warm blankets and cosy clothes, so make use of large, fluffy rugs in strategic spots around the home. Whether it’s to protect bare feet from tiles or to break up an expansive room with a pop of colour, opt for large area rugs that cover plenty of surface area to completely transform your room.

Style up a bookshelf. Putting your favourite books on display is a costeffective way to cosy up your home. No matter what aesthetic you’re going for, match up your book colours to the theme and personalise with a few pieces of décor relating to the books, a cosy candle and perhaps a string of fairy lights.

Accentuate the fireplace. Now that the fireplace is back in use, draw your guests’ attention to the cracking flames by styling the mantle area. Consider things like ornate vases, seasonal displays, and outdoor foliage to really bring the outdoors in. Finding pieces that coordinate with the rest of the room will

Crowdforce – Local Buying Collective

We are Crowdforce, and we’re excited to introduce ourselves to the North Devon community. Founded in early 2024 by two local mums with a bit of extra time now that our children have grown up, we’re proud to continue the legacy of the successful Devon business, Groovees Local Buying Collective. After rebranding as Crowdforce, our mission remains the same: to connect local businesses with the people in their communities by offering incredible deals on products and services from businesses near you.

We know how hard it can be for small businesses to gain visibility, even in their own neighbourhoods. That’s why we’ve created a platform where businesses can come together, support one another, and reach more local customers. At Crowdforce, we believe that by helping businesses grow, we’re also helping our community thrive.

For locals, Crowdforce is your go-to source for exclusive deals from trusted businesses in the South West. Whether it’s a favourite café down the road, a local shop you’ve always wanted to try, or a service you need, we bring you these great offers at discounted rates. Our goal is to make it easier for you to support local businesses and discover everything your area has to offer.

If you’re a business owner looking to reach more customers, get in touch to put a deal on Crowdforce. Together, we can help your business grow while bringing value to the community.

Crowdforce.co.uk

inject some personality into your space. Choose a rich colour palette. For a warm but versatile colour scheme, focus on rich and nuanced tones like earthy coral and burnt sienna. Autumnal colours lend both sophistication and warmth to a home, and they won’t feel out of place come summer if used as accents.

Enticing scents. The right scent can make you feel relaxed, calm, and right at home. This season is well-known for hosting some of the most popular scents on the market; fall in love with ginger, apples, cinnamon, cranberry, pecan and many more. To evoke feelings of cosiness, choose candles that are made with natural wax and essential oils and avoid coloured candles that are often made with toxic pigments. Keep the heat in. Tactful design is important for keeping your home warm in the winter. For example, you could rearrange your furniture so that radiators aren’t trapped, and heat is able to spread more evenly around the room. Double and triple glazing is also a great way to tackle the draughts and cut them off at the source, while also saving some of the energy and money it takes to heat up your home

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director, Great Torrington

NatWest Bank in Torrington

In 2008 the NatWest bank in Torrington produced a pamphlet celebrating 200 years of banking in the town.

NatWest’s Torrington branch can trace its origins back to 1808, when the firm Cooke & Co. was established as the first bank in the town. By the beginning of the nineteenth century, Torrington was a small but prosperous town of just over 2,000 people, known for its wool industry and, increasingly, for glove manufacture. Cooke & Co. was one of many new private banks founded at around this time in rapidly expanding towns, and survived the financial crises of the 1820s when so many similar firms failed. In 1835 a second bank, National Provincial Bank of England, opened for business in Torrington. This bank had been established in 1833 and rapidly embarked on developing an extensive national branch network. By the summer of 1835 it had 15 offices, rising to 32 a year later, of which six were in Devon. The two banks in Torrington continued to trade until 1843, when the partners of the old bank, then known as Loveband & Co. or Torridge Bank, agreed to sell their business to National Provincial Bank of England. The combined business operated thereafter from the offices of the Torridge Bank. In about 1860 the present branch premises were built in the High Street to provide for the growing business.

During the middle decades of the century Torrington prospered, with the opening of a canal to the River Torridge and the arrival of the London & South Western Railway. The bank’s branch in Torrington also flourished and by the early 1880s had a staff of five and over 360 accounts on its books. A new agency was established at Dolton in 1905, which was managed from the Torrington office. National Provincial Bank of England merged in 1918 with Union of London & Smiths Bank to form one of the ‘Big Five’ high streets banks, later known simply as National Provincial Bank. During the Second World War the bank faced staff shortages and controls on lending and foreign exchange, but in the years that followed its business in Torrington flourished. By the mid-1950s Torrington branch had 640 accounts and also operated agencies in Stibb Cross and Beaford.

In 1970 National Provincial Bank merged with Westminster Bank to form National Westminster Bank. During the following two decades the bank launched a range of new products and services, including credit cards and Servicetill cash dispensers and, later, telephone and internet banking. In 2002, in response to customer feedback following a period with limited opening times, Torrington branch extended its business hours, opening every weekday.

'NatWest is proud of its long association with Torrington. Today, two centuries after your branch first opened for business, our aim is just as it has always been: to provide a high quality service to our community’.

Within a few years of giving this assurance, Torrington’s NatWest had moved to Bideford and then to Barnstaple. By 2018 all the town’s banks had closed. Thankfully, we still have a Nationwide building society. The way young people conduct their banking affairs has changed but there are still many, mainly older people, who do not have computers or smart phones and they have to travel a long way if they need to deal in cash or wish to speak to a person.

Moira Brewer

Badminton for Fun!

We don’t take it too seriously! Come and have fun. Players aged 18 to 118.

7.30-9pm, Wednesdays at Little Torrington Victory Hall, £3. Please telephone Jen on 01805 622433.

Abbeyfield

Greetings from Abbeyfield in Great Torrington. The residents have enjoyed some lovely-weathered trips out this month. We have been to Westward Ho! for Hockings, had a steam train ride from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead station and had lunch at the Café Du Parc in Bideford, which was absolutely delicious and a firm favourite with the residents.So much so we are hoping to go back again next month!

Also in our November diary we have our Christmas Coffee Morning on Friday 29th 10.30-12pm. Please feel free to come along and support us, there will be our normal stalls including a raffle, guess the weight of the cake and, of course, our town famous mince pies will be on offer. £1 entry fee gets you a free cuppa!

We are also joining in again this year with 'A Gift for a Child at Christmas'.

We have volunteered to be a collection point for any gift you may feel you want to donate for a child whom otherwise may not get one. If you would like more details pop over to our Facebook page Abbeyfield Torrington.

Charity Head Shave!

Louise Dunn, Grace Metherell and Christopher Drayton will be doing a charity head shave on Saturday 30th November, at St. Giles Sports and Social Club, EX38 7JG. Starting at 7pm with the head shave at about 8pm. Food, music and raffle, in aid of diabetes UK, all welcome!

From Your County Councillor…

It has been another busy month for me and the County Council heading into the autumn.

First, I am delighted to write that the new government has given the green light to Devon’s Devolution Deal and will implement the deal negotiated with the previous government.

The deal which had been negotiated will see a whole raft of powers, responsibilities and funding devolved to Devon and Torbay from Whitehall – and will allow us to make important decisions about the future of Devon on how we improve jobs, skills, housing, and the environment, at a much more local level than from a desk in London.

As I have previously reported, this will see the transfer of Adult Education to Devon and Torbay, with the aim of creating up to 50,000 new training and retraining opportunities by 2030. We know that improving skills and training for our young people in Torrington Rural is a key priority for us locally, and this new devolution settlement should help us with that.

The government has re-confirmed the transfer of £16 million capital funding to invest in new ‘green’ jobs, homes, skills, and business growth. There will also be

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

a focus on the environment and how we can capitalise on Devon’s science and technology sectors as we continue to reduce carbon emissions and move towards net-zero.

In order to implement the Devolution Settlement, a new Devon and Torbay ‘County Combined Authority’ (CCA) is legally required to be created to assume responsibility for new funds and powers transferred by government from Whitehall. The CCA will be run by a committee of council leaders and representatives from Devon and Torbay, and while there will be some administrative costs, these are funded by the government. I do want to stress this is not about creating some vast new bureaucracy. The practical day to day work of implementing these new powers, once the CCA has taken a decision, will continue to fall with our existing local authorities and partners.

This arrangement I believe is preferable than going down the other model, which would have been the creation of an ‘Elected Mayor’ which would have seen a much vaster layer of bureaucracy created.

It is hoped that with draft regulations to create the CCA to be made this autumn, the Devon and Torbay CCA could hold its first meeting early in the New Year.

As well as the powers mentioned above, the government is also offering a stronger partnership with Homes England, using the Affordable Housing Programme and Brownfield Infrastructure and Land Fund to create

Friendly professional lawn mowing and general garden maintenance.

Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding.

Garden waste removal service also available.

a joint action plan for affordable housing schemes for local people and to reduce homelessness. While again, it will take some time for this to come to fruition, we know of a number of derelict brownfield sites across Devon and Torridge and with the old Dairy site finally being demolished, I would hope it would be possible to link up this site with this new initiative, to help secure some new homes ring-fenced for local people who need to get onto the housing ladder. So, it is interesting if not even exciting, times ahead for Devon. I have always thought that the Devolution Deal would be the start of a journey for us and that over time we will see more government powers devolved down to us, and that is and should be a good thing for Devon and for us here in Torrington Rural. I will write about more local matters in my next article, but just to briefly touch on some local highways issues, I am pleased to confirm that dates have been pencilled in early next year for resurfacing on the B3227 at the top of Hatchmoor Road in Torrington, and along the rough section of road just outside High Bullen. As we head into the more autumnal months, patching and resurfacing repairs are continuing and we have had over 4,800 square metres worth of patching (i.e. resurfacing style repairs) done in Torrington Rural alone. As ever, if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise you can contact me on Facebook facebook.com/cllrsaywell, ring 07886 446 560 or email andrew. saywell@devon.gov.uk.

Services include:

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

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

Fabulous Freddie checking in with the latest news from K9Focus.

Hard to believe that we are already into November, which can be quite a stressful month for many of us dogs, cats and wildlife with firework season – yes we now think of it as a season as the bangs and flares no longer seem to be restricted just to the 5th. I am not actually that worried about the loud bangs, but I know that many of my four-legged friends are, and so I would suggest that now is the time to be putting together a strategy for managing the next week or so. Simple things can help a lot:

* On and around the 5th build a safe place – a crate covered with a blanket.

* Make sure all windows and doors are closed.

* Turn the radio/TV on.

* Walk the dog early in the day and keep on a lead.

* Keep cats indoor for the evening.

* Get some really high value treats –see the recipe below for my favourite bonfire treats!

* Try not too stress yourself, as us furbies are very sensitive to your feelings

and will definitely pick up your vibes. Now all dogs love cheese and yes, it can be fattening, however as a special treat Aunty Lynne makes these for me and they certainly get my attention even with fireworks going off!

Ingredients:

115ml of hot water

1 chicken or beef stock cube

1 egg

200g of wholemeal flour (any standard flour will do but we prefer wholemeal!)

40g of shredded cheddar cheese

Method: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees. Make your stock. Mix flour, egg and stock together to make a dough. Add the grated cheese (yummy!). Mix through adding more water or flour if you feel the consistency isn’t quite right to roll out. Knead dough and roll out to about ¼ inch. Place on baking paper and cook for approx. 20 mins. Make sure us woofs are not around when you get them out of the oven, or we will just be trying to grab one!

trend that these dogs are not vaccinated, neutered and their microchip details have not been updated. This month we have taken in two cockapoos, one husky, one corgi x, one labrador and one cavapoo – all needing veterinary attention, which is obviously putting financial pressure on the rescue. However our thanks have to go to the Bideford Bike Show Team who organised a dog show at the Bideford Pannier Market and raised £361, which will certainly help towards vaccinations. Our main concern at the moment is the trend we are seeing with microchip details not being up to date, which means if your dog is lost it cannot be returned quickly to you. It is easy to check by just going online but if you don’t have that facility, then your vet will check for you and if like my vet, will also give you a treat!

As seems to be the case every month, requests for us to take dogs into rescue are non-stop and there is a continuing

With requests to surrender dogs and now cats on the increase, we do need more help to join our rehoming team and so if you have a few hours to spare then please email lynne@ k9focus.co.uk to discuss how you can help. Other than fireworks, November is one of my favourite times of the year as we are now allowed back on the beaches and everywhere locally is a little quieter! So I am off for a scamper and will be back next month with all the news. Have fun, woofs & licks Freddie

From Your District Councillors…

We are really pleased to see the new disabled parking bays in Sydney House Car Park being used. We hope this will make the library, Post Office and community centre more accessible for residents of the town and surrounding villages.

effectively to the local community.

torridge.gov.uk, 07970 636 199

Cllr Lauren Bright attended the first Torrington Family Hub Focus Group, following Devon County Council’s decision to repurpose the Torrington Children’s Centre building near the junior school. Attendees of this meeting were informed that the building is DCC’s costsaving solution to increasing the number of childcare places for 2-year-olds in the town. Communication from DCC has been extremely poor throughout this process, even with key stakeholders. Whilst the childcare places are in demand, it is a huge shame that these will come at the expense of this muchvalued physical hub for young families in the town. Popular groups including Noah’s Ark and Early Nourishment and the Growbaby initiative, all of which currently run from the centre, will need to move to other spaces, and this is a priority for the Focus Group going forward. Details are still to be confirmed about what this will mean for Public Health Nursing activities that currently happen in the centre. We hope that the next steps will be communicated more

At Torridge District Council, the Climate Change Working Group listened to a presentation from Phil Topham about the Climate Changing Room project, which is raising funds to build a volunteer-led facility in the grounds of Castle Community Centre. The aim of the project is to make it easier for people to get practical guidance about steps they can take both to reduce their carbon footprint, and to adapt to the environmental challenges we face. In the same meeting, members discussed TDC’s progress towards its commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030, a target which it is currently not on track to meet. Cllr Smith is chair of this working group and noted that in order to reach this ambition, which was triggered when the Council declared a Climate Emergency in 2019, TDC would have to be prepared to commit some significant resources to it, which at the moment is not happening.

A briefing was held in early October on some major projects coming up at Torridge District Council and we hope to be able to share further details in the next issue. Discussions also continue around the emerging Housing Strategy.

If you have any questions or concerns relating to waste and recycling collection, planning, car parking, licensing and events, public safety, housing or benefits, please get in touch using the contact details below.

Cllr Doug Smith, Councillor.smith@

Cllr Chris Bright, Councillor.bright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909

Cllr Lauren Bright, Cllr.laurenbright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07595 659 310

Wellbeing Cafe

Would you like to meet others and find out about different groups, activities and organisations in our local area? Come and enjoy a FREE cuppa and have a chat with the Social Prescribers from our local GP Surgeries. All welcome! Hope to see you there. Phone for more information or just pop in! Justine 07377 176 457. At The Market Café, 13 Pannier Market, Torrington, EX38 8HD. Every first Thursday of the month, 9.30-11am.

Torrington Rotary –Collecting Unwanted Coats

We are collecting unwanted coats until the end of November. If you have any unwanted coats just hanging around please donate them and we will find a good home for them.

Drop off point is at The Bickford Centre, from 10am-4pm Mon-Sat.

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

We always welcome new active members and anyone is very welcome to join us on the collection day social each month, to discover more about how joining OWBG could be of benefit to you and your family, who we are and what we do. If you're coming, it would be really helpful if you could email owbg@protonmail. com so we have an idea of numbers for shared food and tasters.

Delicious lunches are now well established at our order collection day and social, as members who can, bring a dish to share. This means the spread is always a wonderful pot luck surprise. Recipes are exchanged and our talking point, where we learn about and discuss a subject of interest, continues to be an interesting and enjoyable focus. As I write, the topic for November’s talking point is still to be decided upon, but closer to the time you'll be able to see the details on our Facebook page –Organic & Wholefood Buying Group.

Wellbeing Tip:

Eating & Lifestyle for Graceful Ageing We all know that ageing is inevitable, yet there are simple habits and ways of being that can help preserve our vitality, and enable us to age gracefully, if we choose to adopt them.

It's a big subject, but here are the basic guidelines for avoiding premature ageing and being able to actually enjoy our third age.

1) Overeating is a major cause of premature ageing in wealthy countries;

we should never eat until we're completely full. This single habit is the most important.

2) Avoid eating late at night – the last meal should be small, truly nourishing and at least three hours before bed.

3) Sudden, extreme changes in diet are unhelpful, gradual changes will be tolerated best. The majority of the diet needs to come from complex (unrefined) carbohydrates, pulse, seeds, nuts, vegetables, sea vegetables and regional fruits. So simply making gradual changes to incorporate more of these foods is a smart move. High fibre foods clean the heart and arteries and keep the digestive tract working smoothly.

4) Choose easily digestible foods: eg soaked, well-cooked grains including purees, if thorough chewing is a problem.

5) Weakening foods include refined sugar, refined flours, caffeine, alcohol, excess salt, highly processed food with many ingredients and additives. In fact processed foods are effectively dead, stress inducing 'food' laced with toxicity, so all efforts to reduce these will be beneficial.

6) As we age, a diet heavy in meats becomes taxing to our digestive system, circulation and respiration and additionally weakens our bones. If meat is needed due to weakness, small quantities of fish, organic organ meats and organic bone marrow soup are best.

7) Organic minerals from plant life are the most fundamental

nutrients. Marine animals with diets high in sea vegetables and algae show no obvious signs of ageing. An adult whale's cellular vitality is virtually equal to a new-born whale, whereas adult humans generally show massive cellular deterioration. Therefore it makes complete sense for us to take the time to learn how to incorporate sea vegetables into our diet in a way that is appropriate for our individual needs – one size doesn't fit all.

8) Sprouted seeds, nuts and pulses are easily digested and are in fact powerhouses of nutrition. Likewise, unpasteurized lacto-fermented foods deliver delicious umami flavours, an abundance of helpful probiotics and easily digested super nutrition. Upcoming grocery final order dates: 14th Nov; 12th Dec. How do I join? Via our website. What does membership cost? Free What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623 307 or email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

OWBG Website: owbg.jimdofree.com Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Email: owbg@protonmail.com; www. marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

Wishing you vibrant vital health and wellbeing.

Mary

First Avery-Cramp Bursary Awarded

Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group Celebration

Acelebration, marking 50 years since the start of twinning between Great Torrington and Roscoff, was held over the weekend of the 14th/15th September. The main event was a celebration dinner evening on Saturday the 14th, held at the Castle Hill Community Centre, attended by Councillor Phil Cloke (Mayor of Great Torrington), the Mayor Consort, nine Twinners from Roscoff, members of the current and past Great Torrington twinning organisations and the Torrington Silver Band. The event included a welcome speech by the Councillor Phil Cloke (in French), much reminiscing and a very informative and humorous speech by John Hayes, a member of the original twinning organisation.

Community Event –Save the Date!

Wednesday 27th November, 4-7pm at the Plough Arts Centre

Although the physical twinning between the two towns started in 1974, the official Charter was drawn up in 1975. The current Roscoff Twinning Group (L ‘Amicale Roscoff/Great-Torrington) will be celebrating 50 years since this event and some of our group hope to join them in Roscoff next Easter.

Before our French friends departed Great Torrington on Sunday the 15th, a farewell afternoon tea was held at Di and Jay Nicholson’s home (photo above). A huge thanks to everyone involved in the organisation of the Celebration events.

Nick Roberts

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.

Mid-week Morning Prayer every Wednesday at 9.30am (around 20-30 minutes long), tea and coffee afterwards, should you wish to stay. Join us for our ‘Bacon Butty Coffee Morning’ from 10am-12pm, on the 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.

Everyone welcome. Torrington 100 brings Torrington Together, an event where local groups and organisations in the health and wellbeing world can share what they do with the public of Great Torrington and surrounding areas. There will be a wide range of information stalls to browse in the auditorium and guest speakers in the Gallery. Refreshments will be available for purchase at The Plough Café. Come along and explore what Great Torrington has to offer. Like or Follow Torrington 100 on Facebook for updates. If you require any further information please email: amanda.s@ ttvs.org.uk.

St Michael's & All Angels Church

At St Michael's & All Angels Church, we warmly invite you to find a moment of peace and reflection within our doors. Whether you're seeking quiet time for personal prayer or simply a space to unwind during the day, our church is open from 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday. For those looking to join us in worship, we hold regular services on Thursdays at 10:30am and Sundays at 10am. All are welcome to join us and we look forward to seeing you there!

The trustees of the Great Torrington Town Lands Charity are very pleased to announce that the first Avery-Cramp Bursary has been awarded.

The bursary was set up to help students and apprentices from Torrington to buy essential equipment, as they start their degree course or apprenticeship.

The 2024 award has been shared equally between two students, one pursuing an academic course, the other a more vocational course. Each student has received the sum of five hundred pounds and we wish them very well in their studies.

We acknowledge with gratitude the legacies given in memory of Miss Liz Avery and Dr Harry Cramp MBE which have funded this bursary.

Applications for the next bursary will be invited in May 2025.

Your Council, Working for YOU GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

From Your Mayor…

Every so often something happens that is really special! That's basically what I feel about my Mayor’s Civic Service which took place in St. Michael and All Angels Church last month. An enormous thank you must go to Father Steve Turner, for leading the service and creating such a lovely atmosphere. Add to that the superb playing of our town's Silver Band, both standalone and alongside the Church's Father Willis organ, some truly wonderful music was created throughout the morning. I must say particular thanks for the amazing rendition of ‘All You Need is Love’ which was specially arranged for the day and was very touching. A fitting farewell glass of fizz being raised to retiring Church warden, Chris Foster, completed an excellent morning. One which I shall always remember! So thank you to all who attended and raised a generous £192.90 for my Mayor's Charity Appeal.

to our Roscoff visitors. My thanks go to Nick Roberts for organising this very enjoyable event. I must also add that the presentation of an incredibly colourful and detailed historic map (A Waters Map, Histories & Mysteries of the River Torridge) of our town and surrounding area, by local artist Rob Temple-Thurston, really went down a storm!

On Thursday 24th September, my Deputy Dave Parish and I had an invitation to witness the wild flower meadow creation day in partnership with Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT), taking place at Jubilee Woods. However, the volunteer team must have received a different memo! The organiser Izzy from DWT soon had us using scythe, hoe, fork, and generally helping to clear the area, prior to spreading the seeds, we look forward to seeing the meadow blossom over the next few years. At the same time a spitfire was giving a short but marvellous display over the town, with Dave Sawyer sharing the twin cockpit. Here's to you Dave!

pleasure of presenting. Secondly, thanks go to all the local traders who came along with suggestions to put forward to Devon County Council Highways to improve parking within our town centre, particularly at delivery times. Your suggestions have been noted. Thank you. Finally, I attended the celebration of Harvest at Taddiport's lovely little church, complete with homemade cakes, savouries, and cider, it was a great end to a busy, but very enjoyable month. As usual, take care, keep safe, and thank you for your continued support.

Phil Cloke

Community Speedwatch Initiative

ASince my last report I've been involved in a variety of activities. My consort Elizabeth and I were pleased to attend both Barnstaple's historic Fair Proclamation and the Civic Service for the Mayor of Bideford. We were also honoured to attend the 50th Anniversary of the Great Torrington/Roscoff twinningexchange group. It was great to reflect on the history of the association, meet old friends, revisit memories of twinning excursions from over the years and attempt to speak in French

Staying with a floral theme, Elizabeth and I will be off to Bath, where the Torrington in Bloom group is nominated for a national award called ‘It's Your Neighbourhood’ in recognition of all the hard work undertaken in keeping our lovely town looking truly beautiful. I must briefly mention three more local events of note. Firstly, well done to all those children who received prizes as part their Summer Reading Challenge. Thanks go to Kate Cooper from Libraries Unlimited, for organising the event and the Friends of Torrington Library for supplying the prizes which I had the

re you concerned about speeding in your neighbourhood? Did you know you can work with Devon & Cornwall Police to set up a Community Speedwatch? Volunteers from the community use detection devices to monitor local vehicle speeds. They receive training, equipment and support from the local neighbourhood policing team.

To get started you need to have a team of four people, one of which will need to be the Group Coordinator. If you are concerned about driving speeds in a particular area in Torrington, and you have a small group of volunteers, then please sign up using the following link to the appropriate website.

www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/ advice/advice-and-information/wsi/ watch-schemes-initiatives/speedwatch/ community-speedwatch/

Remembrance Sunday Parade & Service

10th November 2024

This year Remembrance Sunday falls on 10th November 2024. Great Torrington Town Council and The Royal British Legion will hold a Remembrance Ceremony at the War Memorial in the Cemetery, commencing at 10.50am. The location for the forming up of the Parade will remain the same as last year, details below:

1. The Parade Route: The Parade will assemble in the driveway at Woodland Vale Care Home from 10:25am and parade UP New Street to the Cemetery. Please note: There will be NO VEHICULAR ACCESS (no exceptions) to Woodland Vale Care Home. LIMITED PARKING will be available at the Old Bowling Green; however, we encourage all participants to walk to the event if they are able to do so.

2. Dismissal at the end of the Service: Following the National Anthem at the end of the service, the Mayor will thank the Parade, who will then be dismissed in the cemetery as last year. The order for dismissal will allow for those at the back to be the first to leave.

3. Standard Practice: Will take place at the Town’s Band room in Castle Street. Further information will be sent to individual organisations nearer the time.

As detailed in last month’s Crier, we are encouraging the use of recycled wreaths this year to reduce the use of single use plastic. Many organisations have already been in touch to organise the collection of their wreaths and to discuss the process for donating to the Poppy Appeal. The main collection dates will be Saturday mornings November 2nd and 9th from Torrington Museum.

Christmas Window Dressing Competition

TIf your organisation is new to attending the ceremony you can order a wreath in the traditional way, directly from the Royal British Legion in plenty of time. A wreath can be ordered by contacting the Royal British Legion on 0345 845 1945 and it will be posted out to you.

Please note the main issue we have had at this event for the past few years is the amount of cars dropping people off at the Old Bowling Green (Lidl previously). This causes a great risk to the pedestrians in the parade, many of whom are children, therefore we please ask that you walk to the event wherever possible and supervise young children while they are waiting for the parade to begin.

he Town Council is hoping that shop keepers in the town will help us celebrate Christmas by entering our Christmas Window Dressing Competition. We invite all businesses to create a beautiful window display with a Christmas theme, the Mayor will judge them on 3rd December. For further information, or to confirm your entry, please contact us at the Council offices on 01805 626135 or email admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk. All window displays should be complete by Monday 2nd December, judging will take place on Tuesday 3rd December. All shop windows that have been decorated will be judged, but if your shop is in a location that isn’t in the main trading area of the town, do let us know you are taking part, as we don’t want to miss any displays. We look forward to seeing the town decorated for Christmas.

Garden & Landscape

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

LOGS FOR SALE

Tel: 07971533 235

Emergency Planning Group

Getting Ready for Winter

In August a small group of Councillors from Great Torrington Town Council plus local representatives from Devon & Cornwall Police and Devon & Somerset Fire Service, met to discuss emergency planning for the town. As part of this discussion, it was suggested that it would be useful to produce information each season to address common concerns that effect local people.

So here is the first one ‘Getting Ready for Winter’. There are many useful online resources offering advice about getting ready for the colder months ahead. However, we understand that not everyone can access online resources confidently, so if you need help accessing further information do get in touch (01805 626135) we can provide printed copies of information where needed. It is also possible to obtain information and IT support from your local library. If you have specific concerns relating to your health during the cold weather speak with your GP and other healthcare providers.

Examples of useful online resources:

• Winter advice for the elderly - Age UK

• Winter vaccinations - NHS.gov.uk

• Things to do now to prepare for winter - Met Office.

• Financial advice - for those experiencing financial difficulty in later life, independentage.org

The Met Office recommends these ten steps: (Metoffice.gov.uk)

1. Be prepared for power cuts

and internet outage due to stormy weather. Have a battery pack or separate batteries, keep a list of important contact numbers somewhere easy to find (near the phone) e.g. family members, GP practice, the power cut helpline number – 105, plumber, electrician etc.

2. Check your heating. Cold weather can be a risk to your health, particularly if you are over 65 or have health conditions. Ideally your home (and those of elderly relatives and neighbours) should be heated to at least 18°C. Keeping your home warm this winterMet Office.

3. Weatherproof your home & garden. Pack away items that may be vulnerable to high winds, consider checking for loose branches, fence panels or slates. Anything that may become dangerous in high winds.

4. Check your plumbing. Do you know where your stop tap is?

5. Make plans. Think ahead, consider how you will get to work, can you work from home, how will childcare be managed if the schools are closed?

6. Have basic supplies to hand. Make up a handy supply of essential items.

7. Check your car is winter ready. Prepare a winter kit for your car - Met Office. Keep a warm blanket, torch, high visibility jacket, and some food in your car for emergencies. For the full winter car kit list visit the Met Office website.

8. Think about vulnerable

neighbours. If you know you have a family member or neighbour who may find it difficult to access the information or resources they need, could you offer to help?

9. Keep up to date with recommended seasonal vaccinations. (www.nhs.uk)

10. Find out how the community can prepare for seasonal changes and emergencies. Have a look at the below webpages for further information on being prepared and resilient as a community:

* prepare.campaign.gov.uk & Metoffice. gov.uk – community resilience. One of the most common issues people contact Great Torrington Town Council about during winter, particularly if we experience snow and ice, is the location of salt bins. So please do get in touch if you need information about your nearest salt bin. Guidance on how the salt should be used can be found online, grit/salt should be used sparingly and is provided primarily for use on the roads. If you need a warm space this winter Torrington Library will be doing their Meet Up Mondays again, starting 25th November 10-1pm, so pop along there for a free hot drink, cake, biscuits and access to information.

Look out for other local services offering a warm space throughout the winter.

Great Torrington Town Council

Tarka Valley Railway News

Autumn has well and truly arrived. The very occasional dry and bright Thursday has meant that on the many dull and wet days our work plans have been severely affected. Despite these setbacks, we have focussed on finishing the interior of our brake van and when the weather has been kind, restoration of the exterior of our 70-year-old BR TSO carriage has begun. This involves much sanding down, rust protection and gloss paint. It will be a long job.

The ballast hopper has presented a significant challenge in as much as the ballast hopper door wouldn’t open fully, but after a great deal of effort and a little brute force, it looks as though we have succeeded.

In further good news, by the time you read this we should have our own electric supply installed, which will be most convenient as our trusty generator suffered a terminal failure at the end of September. We are managing with a temporary connection until the electrician connects the supply to the cabinet at the rear of our box van. You may rest assured that our tea consumption has not been affected!

Our efforts to keep the site well maintained proceed albeit slower than we would like; the worn-out slats have been removed from the platform benches and the metal frames now looking resplendent in green gloss. The wooden slats are to be renewed as soon as

Devon Sensory Outreach Service

What is the Devon Sensory Outreach Service?

This outreach service is available around the towns and villages of West Devon and Torridge on a regular timetable, offering a free, confidential, and impartial service for people with a hearing and/or sight loss. Families, carers, neighbours, friends and professionals are also welcome to come and see us. What does the Sensory Outreach Service offer?

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

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

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

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

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

• Maintenance of NHS hospital hearing aids. Batteries and retubing. The service visits The Bickford Centre, South Street EX38 8AA on 1st Wednesday every two months: next visit 4th December.

Anne Humphreys, Rehab Officer - Hearing Impairment Sensory Team 07966 596881 or 01392 386611

possible.

We have been fabricating new gates for the coal dock. All the pieces have been cut, but we still need to fit them together and hang the completed gates at the entrance. There is still work to be done. It is a project that we can turn to on dry days.

Our two working locos have received ongoing maintenance but unfortunately, the old shunter “Progress” is still waiting for mechanical repairs before it can be put to use. It would be great to have it running in time for its 80th birthday next year.

Please visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates and our website has much more information about our vision, our locomotives and rolling stock plus the history of the railway. Do check it out: wwwtarkavalleyrailway.org.

Robert Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

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Fleur’s Gardening Forum Hydrangeas

For many years, the Hydrangea was much maligned: its worth mainly because it could grow almost anywhere in almost any situation, preferring shade, so you could see them everywhere from lining the grand entrances to large estates to a couple of shrubs in a suburban garden that filled a space where not much else would grow. They were also easy to maintain, and still mostly are. Now, there are many new cultivars coming on to the market and their popularity is growing.

The Genus Hydrangea has almost 100 species, from deciduous to evergreen, shrubs to climbers. They are mostly native to East Asia, North and South America. They nearly all prefer dappled/ light shade and good soil that is moisture retentive but not waterlogged.

The most familiar species known to us is H. macrophylla: either the ‘mophead’ or daintier ‘lacecap’ varieties and cultivars, of which there are many. These are very easy to grow and maintain and provide colour during late summer and autumn.

H. macrophylla tolerates both acid and alkaline soil and comes in a range of colours from pink through to purples, reds and on to shades of blue, the blue colour ranges retain their colouring best in acid soils and the pink in alkaline soils.

H. macrophylla makes a large, deciduous shrub which should be pruned quite hard during March, to good, strong new shoots. You can also prune lightly during winter to prevent storm damage.

Watch out for late frosts. They have few pests or diseases.

Native to Japan and SE China, H. paniculata is probably the second wellknown species, taller growing than H. macrophylla and can be pruned during winter when not in growth. The flower heads are conical in shape, resembling a ‘Mr Whippy’ ice-cream. Probably the most familiar is ‘Vanilla Fraise’ which has large creamy white flowers that develop a raspberry flush as they age.

H. petiolaris, the climbing Hydrangea, is native to Russia and parts of the Far East. The leaves are dark green and attractive, the flowers are large, creamy lacecaps. These appear earlier in the season. Do not prune this shrub, except to keep it within its bounds.

Hydrangea arborescens originates from N America and is a large shrub/ small tree that can reach up to 12’ (3.5m), preferring moist shade. It has very large, creamy white mop head type flowers, and probably the best known cultivar is ‘Annabelle’.

Lastly, H. quercifolia (oak-leaved) has, guess what, oak leaf shaped leaves which develop good autumn colouring. This shrub is native to SE USA and can reach up to 8’ in height (2.5m).

Modern cultivars can now be grown in large containers if space is lacking, coming in a wide range of colours both for foliage and flowers. To plant in a pot, you need a good compost (John Innes No. 3 mixed with ordinary potting compost) and keep the pot well-watered.

Torrington in Bloom

We now have the results of the ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries from the SW in Bloom competition and they are our best yet, so without further ado: Swimming Pool Bed, School Lane: Outstanding Secret Memorial Garden: Outstanding Castle Hill Community Garden: Outstanding Rack Park: Outstanding Town Centre Planters: Thriving Puffing Billy: Thriving These awards are thoroughly deserved, in particular, the firsttime entry of the Puffing Billy. Congratulations to all our lovely volunteers for their hard work and dedication to making the town of Torrington look so attractive. Next year, we are intending to open our gardens along with the Rotary Club of Torrington, whereby the entrance fees will be donated to a local organisation or charity (yet to be selected). There is much discussion and organisation to be undertaken but if you would like to open your garden for a good cause then please let us know (the date has to be confirmed but will probably be Mid-July). You now have eight months to prepare!

Cherry Hammon, 01805 625788

Little Torrington WI

October’s meeting was a talk on Cyber Security with Steven McWatters. It was very informative and sparked much discussion in the group. Our speaker for next month is Alan Fraser-Smith, ‘One Family’s Approach to Farming North Devon’. The skittles team has its first match against Highbray & Charles WI, at Poltimore Arms, North Molton.

Book group meets on the third Monday of the month and is currently reading ‘Big Sky’, Kate Atkinson.

‘Ladies Who Drink Coffee’ are meeting on the third Wednesday of the month at the Puffing Billy.

The Autumnal Meeth Nature Reserve walk will be on Friday 1st November. Welly boots are compulsory!

Art Class over Zoom will recommence mid-November. It will be over four online sessions ‘In the Eye of the Artist’, and based around observation, studying different schools of art naive, realism finishing with futurism.

There will also be a WI painting day in Little Torrington Village Hall, using acrylic paints. ‘The Point of Painting’, will take in influences of Klimt, Monet, Van Gogh. It should be a colourful day!

Little Torrington WI will supporting Castle Hill Creatives Christmas Craft Fair, on 16th November, at Castle Hill Community Centre 10am-4pm, providing mince pies and mulled wine.

If any of the above sounds of interest please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.

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Rolle Canal News

Progress Report - July to September 2024

Over the last three months, our team of volunteers has been working hard on our current project to restore the inclined plane at Ridd. Whilst is it not feasible to reconstruct the plane to its previous working order (we can only dream about that!), there are certain things we can do to enhance the site and provide better interpretation of some of the original features.

At the bottom of the site, working in partnership with the Environment Agency, we have cleared a lot of the invasive vegetation which obscured much of the lower section of the incline and opened up the area around the former stable building. The Environment Agency has kindly repaired the floor of the building, which had deteriorated badly over recent years, and this is now in good condition. Eventually, we would like to use this building as an interpretation centre for visitors with display boards explaining how the incline worked.

At the top of the incline where it is intersected by the Tarka Trail, we have made really good progress clearing the original route of the canal southwards. This section was completely overgrown and had never been fully exposed, but the line of the canal and the embankment are clearly visible. We have also started to rebuild the boundary wall on the western side of the upper pound. The foundations of the wall are still pretty much intact, but much of the original stonework has disappeared – probably ‘robbed’, we think, for the construction of infrastructure for the railway. Sourcing stone for the rebuild has been a challenge, but fortunately we have found a large trove of stone produced from the excavation of the wheel pit many years ago, so we believe we have enough to complete the job. At the same time as rebuilding the wall, we have also created a proper set of stone steps to the footpath to the entrance to the inspection chamber. This has often been hidden from view in the past and we hope that the improved access will enable visitors to appreciate this interesting and well-preserved structure.

All in all, we have made excellent progress during the first six months of the project. The work will help to set the canal in its proper context and improve public understanding of this fascinating piece of engineering.

Tony Nicholls

Debbie Summers 07796 945 039

Bideford & District

Photographic Group

Well after a very successful and popular exhibition at the Blue Lights Hall in Appledore, which continued the club’s long tradition of excellence in printed work, we have moved on to our winter season.

The ‘Open Category’ digitally projected image competition had over 60 entries and saw success for: Gold Award - Judith Flacke for ‘Love in a Mist in a Mist’, she had a really good evening also getting a Silver Award for ‘Tulip's Last Dance’ and a Highly Commended (HC) for ‘Morwenstow Revisited’.

Also gaining Silver Awards were David Warnes for ‘Rendezvous’ and Tim Sanders for ‘Run Run’.

Two Bronze Awards were given to David Shaw for ‘Water Dragon’ and Mike Deaton for ‘Window Box’, Mike also got a commended for his image of ‘Jewel Anemone - Lundy Island’.

Other HC images were ‘Silverwashfritillary’ by Jenny Wright, ‘Violinist on Stage’ by Rupert Stockwin and the awards were rounded off with a commended to Biddie Bix for ‘Stylish Lady’.

Our programme at the Blue Lights Hall in Appledore, all Tuesdays with a 7.30pm start time, for the coming weeks include:

November 5th members’ evening; 12th Talk Critique your own photograph by Martin Patten; 19th members evening; 26th judging and critique of the Open Category print competition. December 3rd members’ evening; 14th talk on Long Exposure by Anthony Zacharis via Zoom.

Then we have our winter break until January 7th when we re-open with a members’ evening.

For further information email Tim at sanderst99@gmail.com; enquiries@ bidefordcameraclub.co.uk or see the website bidefordcameraclub.co.uk.

Pause for Thought…

Awhile ago I bumped into an old school friend and we chatted about our journey over the past few decades. The one significance I mentioned was that I became a Christian in my later 20s. My old friend responded by saying that God wouldn’t want to know him as he was, ‘not good enough’. It was a view which resonated with the start of my own faith journey years before, I came to realise it was not true. In a world where we are constantly invited to compare ourselves, it can feel hard to keep pace and accept ourselves for who we are. The Bible teaches that God made us, and knows the nitty gritty of every person; despite all our imperfections, he loves us and wants a relationship with us. There is no mention of being, ‘good enough’.

Jesus came to earth and showed us the nature and heart of God as he cared for the untouchables, the lost, the poor, and those ostracised by their community. He stood for justice and mercy before position and his value system had nothing to do with money or possessions. So, what does God want from us? Jesus set out the greatest commandment… “To love God with all your heart, soul, and mind and to love your neighbour as yourself.” As simple as that! Whatever may stop you exploring Christianity, please don't let it be concerns about being good enough. If you want to know more – why not give one of us a call? We are happy to chat! Karen 07890 132 081; Trish 07866 861 156.

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a free dog groom from Foxy Dogs up to the value of £50. 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 the last issue is Adrienne Brown. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 14th November.

Hi, my name is Paula and I am the owner of Foxy Dogs Grooming Studio. If you have heard of me, or come across my Facebook or Instagram pages already, it’s probably because you have a furry friend. Like you, my dogs are my babies, and so working from home was really important to me. That’s how the concept for Foxy Dogs was formed. I mean, who doesn’t want to be at home for their animals and also get to meet all of your wonderful dogs too?

I’m a small business but that doesn’t affect the quality of my service. My studio is set up in an out building in my garden; it’s a calm, tranquil environment, away from the road where your dog can feel secure and relaxed.

My aim at Foxy Dogs is to create a place your dog will be comfortable and you as the owner will feel at ease leaving them. I look forward to meeting you all!

Beaford Village Hall Market & Café

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

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.

Torrington Baptist Church Light Lunch

We will be having a Light Lunch on Tuesdays at 12.30pm until about 2.30pm. There will be a suggested donation of £2. Anyone looking for lunch and some good company is welcome.

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November events at the plough

Growing and Celebrating Talent in the Heart of our Community!

On 1st November The Plough will be hosting an evening in special celebration of young bands – right here in Great Torrington. Our ‘Plough The Future’ group has gathered together the best young musicians to celebrate local talent, energy and a passion for music. No prizes – just a great celebration! For an unmissable event, join us at 7pm on 1st November.

Meeting once a month, Plough The Future provide opportunities in the theatre-making, performing arts and creativity for all young people in Devon. So, if you’re between 10-18 and have ideas and enthusiasm for all things art, then you need to be a part of this youth council that is shaping the arts in North Devon! For more information, contact katherine@theploughartscentre.org.uk.

At The Plough we love to get creative in our community and to offer the colourful engagement of the arts to our local schools, community organisations and support groups. We believe that the performing arts encourage confidence, communication, team work, and individuality and our workshops have keen focus on self-expression and

creativity, celebrating participation, and building strong performance and theatre skills.

Our creative story begins with Theatre Tots, where through fun and play, we bring music, dance, drama and storytelling to our youngest participants from the age of two.

On Saturdays our Infants, Juniors, Middlies and Senior groups come together to form our Plough Youth Theatre, where participants build a strong and diverse range of performance skills in acting, drama and theatre arts and more, to create and perform exciting public performances.

In addition, let’s not forget Creative Dance - a mixed ability session for 8-18 year olds focussing on choreography and devising dance theatre; Creative Movement and Mindfulness – a combination of creative dance, movement, yoga and mindful and expressive choreography for 4-12 year olds; and Writing for Performance – developing skills across a variety of creative and performative writing, including poetry, comedy, song writing and writing for film.

Alongside the valuable work we do with young people, we also offer Drama & Dance sessions for adults with additional needs in our Plough Prism and Motion Dance sessions every Tuesday. Our community choir, Ploughcappella, also meets every Monday evening! If you’d like to support the valuable work we do in our community then join us as a Plough Supporter – and enjoy the many benefits it brings!

Visual Arts

Exhibition on screen: Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers (PG) Made in close collaboration with the National Gallery, London, as it hosts the UK’s biggest ever Van Gogh exhibition. Van Gogh is not only one of the most beloved artists of all time, but perhaps the most misunderstood. This film is a chance to re-examine and better understand this iconic artist. Focusing on his unique creative process, it explores the artist’s years in France, where he revolutionised his style. Explore one of art history’s most pivotal periods in this once-in-a-century show!

Directed by David Bickerstaff –

RICHARD HEYWOOD ELECTRICAL

Please note, a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings 01/11/2024

10:30am The Gallery at the Plough Arts Centre Art On Friday

7pm The Plough Arts Centre A Celebration of Young Bands 02/11/2024

10:15am Dance Studio at the Plough (every Saturday) Plough Youth TheatreInfants (5-7yrs)

10:15am The Plough (every Saturday) Plough Youth Theatre - “Middlies” (1114yrs)

10:30am Meeting room at the Plough Arts Centre Plough Writers

12:15pm The Plough (every Saturday) Plough Youth Theatre - Senior Theatre Company (14-18yrs)

1pm The Plough (every Saturday) Plough Youth Theatre - Juniors (8-11yrs)

produced by Phil Grabsky. Running time 120 mins.

Exhibition in the Gallery: Jenny Arran 4-28 November 2024

Private View in the Gallery 6.308.30pm 6th November 2024. All welcome.

Having trained at The Slade school of Fine Art, Arran has exhibited widely. Her work is inspired by the natural and sensory world, the contrasts of stillness and energy, light and shade. She describes her paintings as remembered landscapes - a distillation of time, experience and sensory response. Working from memory, painting becomes a process of translation and connection.

3pm Dance Studio at the Plough (every Saturday) Creative Dance (8-16yrs)

7:30pm The Plough Film: Joker: Foile a Deux (12A)

8pm The Gallery at the Plough Music: Mark Harrison 03/11/2024

2pm The Gallery at the Plough Music: Heartsong with Alison Whittall 04/11/2024

7:30pm The Gallery at the Plough Ploughcappella with Rosa Rebecka 05/11/2024

10:30am The Plough (every Tuesday) Plough Prism Drama

1:30pm The Plough (every Tuesday) Motion Dance 06/11/2024

2pm & 7:30pm The Plough Film: Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers (PG) 07/11/2024

5pm Meeting Room at the Plough (every Thursday) Writing for Performance (818yrs)

7pm The Plough Arts Centre ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ filmed live at the Royal Albert Hall

7pm ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple 08/11/2024

10:30Aam The Gallery at the Plough Art on Friday

8pm The Plough Music: John Bramwell (I am Kloot) 09/11/2024

8pm The Plough Music: Nick Harper ‘Earth Day Blue’

8pm ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple Music: Richard Malfait ‘Rich and Friends’ 11/11/2024

7:30pm The Gallery at the Plough Ploughcappella with Rosa Rebecka 13/11/2024

1pm Dance Studio at the Plough Visual Arts: Life Drawing with Jenny Arran 5 week course 15/11/2024

8pm The Plough Music: Martyn Joseph 16/11/2024

7:30pm The Plough Music: The Kate Bush Song Book 18/11/2024

7:30pm The Gallery at the Plough Ploughcappella with Rosa Rebecka 20/11/2024

6pm The Gallery at the Plough A.G.M. of The Plough Arts Centre 21/11/2024

7pm The Plough Theatre: ‘Girl From The North Country’ 22/11/2024

10:30am The Gallery at the Plough Art On Friday 8pm The Plough Music: Sundown Social presents Dub Wagon 23/11/2024

8pm The Gallery at the Plough The Two Robbies: Spoken Word Comedy 25/11/2024

7:30pm The Gallery at the Plough Ploughcappella with Rosa Rebecka 30/11/2024

8pm The Plough The Comedy Store

A Missionary in India 1908-1940

The Life of Rev A Ernest Smith

Ihave often wondered how my family came to be in Torrington after 1940, as my father’s family were from Birmingham and Yorkshire and my mother’s family from Bristol and Somerset. However, after researching the life of my grandfather I now know why I am here!

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Grandfather, A Ernest Smith, (1882-1956) was born into a strongly pro-active religious family which had been heavily involved with the anti-Catholic Murphy riots and would be considered extremist today. After a family crisis, at the age of only 14, he promised himself to God. His story takes him from modest beginnings in Birmingham to Cheshunt College Cambridge, and to South India, where he devoted his life to missionary work, which included a furlough as a YMCA chaplain in France in 1916. This book covers the lives (some very tragic ending violently at the hands of cannibals) of his family, colleagues and those who inspired him. It also gives a glimpse into British rule in India and the rise of Mahatma Ghandi Ernest’s family was secondary to God’s work and had to survive the dangers of an alien climate, deadly wildlife, isolation, separation, cold English boarding schools and another world war. Only in sickness was Ernest forced to retire early, in 1940, and moved to Great Torrington Devon, where he often preached at Howe Congregational Church and took the train to preach in villages in the area. In 1946, His son, Bernard Medley-Smith, became a teacher and taught at White’s lane and the Bluecoat at Borough Road.

The book is available at Torrington Museum, or from Elisabeth at welshtale@ gmail.com.

Elisabeth Medley-Smith

Talking About Death Doesn’t Make it Happen!

We meet monthly for two hours of open discussion on all matters related to death and dying. We have lots of laughter as well as profound moments and there's always tea and cake. Do join us!

The next Great Torrington Death Cafe will be held at the Methodist Church Hall at the top of Mill Street on November 4th from 10am-12pm. On December 10th we will be in the Methodist Church Hall from 3.30-5.30pm. Please book your place with Ruth Chambers on 07789 020 668 or Nixie Scott James on 07974 119 428.

Appledore Singers

Charity Christmas Concert

In aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association

Appledore Singers’ Charity Christmas Concert will take place on Sunday 8th December, 2.30pm at Northam Hall (top of Fore Street).

The choir is looking forward to entertaining the audience with arrangements of festive music – both traditional and modern – and, as always, there will be the opportunity for audience participation. There will also be our annual Grand Raffle and tea and mince pies will, no doubt, be a welcome treat during the interval. Tony Nicholls will compere the concert, the choir will be accompanied by Chris Beechey and conducted by our Musical Director, Pam Beechey. This year our chosen charity is the Motor Neurone Disease Association. The Association focuses on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those people living with – or affected by - MND in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Admission is £6 at the door (u16s free), to include tea and a mince pie. For further information contact Pam Beechey 01237 420652.

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Mayor’s Diary

Another hectic month has passed. Helen and I have represented the Town at many civic events, including church services for the Chairs of North Devon District Council and Torridge District Council.

We enjoyed a trip to Bideford to watch their Regatta and on 10th September watched the spectacular Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, with visiting bands coming from all over the UK.

Barnstaple Fair is always a wellsupported day, with all the “Chain Gang” out in force to celebrate the tradition of the Fair. The weather was kind as we walked around town, whilst the declaration of the opening of the Fair was read. Immediately after the formal part of the proceedings had finished, we dashed down to Newquay. It was time for Helen to put on a ‘posh frock’ for a reception celebrating the ‘South West in Bloom’ competition. We still had to wait until the following day to hear the results, and were proud and delighted when it was announced that the Torrington in Bloom team had won a Silver Gilt (last year it was silver). Thank you to the committee, traders and individuals who work so hard to enhance our surroundings in Great Torrington. We will soon have the opportunity of meeting the judges to find out how we can do even better – our next challenge is GOLD!!

Our last out-of-town engagement

was at Hatherleigh Community Centre to see many of their residents receive Community Awards. This is similar to the awards we have in Torrington, which recognise people who have made a difference to their town.

It was lovely to at last welcome, and be involved with, the Induction of Father Lawrence MacLean. We hope he and his family will be very happy in our town, and the Church Fete at the Vicarage was a good opportunity for us all to meet them.

The Co-op and Town Traders arranged a Harvest Festival in the Pannier Market on the 11th September. This was the first one organised and I think it will become a regular event on the Torrington calendar. Finally, we tried to attend as many Macmillan coffee mornings as possible and in fact ended up going to five! This is a wonderful charity and it‘s not surprising that it’s so well supported. After all those coffees we went to the Soap Kitchen shop to see Lesley and Richard Phillips who celebrated ten years of business on 30th September. Congratulations to you both.

I look forward to hearing from you if you have an event or anniversary you want to tell me about – just call me 01805 625662, or our secretary, Pauline at the Council offices on 01805 626135.

Councillor Richard Rumbold Town Mayor

Sir Duke here again – wow how quickly a month goes by! Well Autumn is definitely upon us and many of the rescue dogs are gaining their winter coats in readiness for the onset of Winter! We have been as busy as ever with three new dogs being taken in who were due to be put to sleep – I don’t really know why as they are lovely and very friendly – they even like children!

Bruno, our 12-month-old puppy that needs an eye operation, is still bouncing around and we are well on our way to raising the £3,000 needed for his operation.

We have been chosen as one of three charities to participate in a fantastic scheme run by Animal Friends Insurance. Basically the charity that receives the most votes gets a whopping £5,000. So come on all you Facebook fans, please vote for us, and pass the word around to all your friends and family. It is simple to vote, and costs nothing. Just go to: www.facebook.com/feelgoodpark and on the left-hand menu you will see ‘Vote for Charity’. Click this and it will take you through to a page showing charities in the scheme. Then click on

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On October 3rd we celebrated National Poetry Day with our annual poetry competition. This year’s theme was ‘counting’. We had some amazing entries and here are the winners’ poems:

The Final Countdown

While some people snored, And others lay bored.

Something appeared in the sky that everybody would see, It was the number 20.

Everyone wondered what it meant, Maybe it was a gift God had sent.

Would we have to fight something and work as a team, Then it changed... it now read 19.

Even though the numbers glistened like stars in the night, All it did was cause a fright.

People shouted - it's a countdown, the end is near, Suddenly, hairs pricked up on everybody's skin,

As things were about to take a bit of a spin. 16, 15 the numbers started to drown, 14, 13 they went down and down.

Every glimpse of hope left people's eyes, No voices were heard, only cries.

Soon the number 12 rose, It made some people feel depressed, so they sank into their shadows.

Others screamed in agony as they felt pain, And when the rain turned to wind, a building caught aflame. 11 appeared, like two columns of fire standing proud, Though this inevitable sight did not please the crowd. Boom, crack, thud a building fell to the ground, This deadly whirlwind of chaos was producing a blood-curdling sound.

With a howl from the distance, a new number emerged, it read 10,

All of a sudden, some animals came rushing in, from the big Asian elephant to the tiny wren.

The people wanted freedom, so the animals must’ve too, Though the person that released the animals didn’t know the

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Counting

Counting the twinkling stars at night

It like a never-ending ocean

Counting a swan coloured mountain

Counting how many droplets of rain is on the ground

Is like the never-ending process

Counting the days to see the sunshine again

Counting days to remove jackets

Counting days to see colour again in the world

Counting the days to hear birds singing

Counting the days to fee warm again

Counting days wandering around.

Staff Winner Mr Cloke

Abia Mijo, Year 10

damage that they’d do.

When the number turned to 9,

Someone was getting rammed by a bovine.

When the countdown struck 8,

One child was getting beaten up by a primate.

At the speed of light, it now read 7, It shone so bright; it was like an angel had walked down from heaven.

As fast as a cheetah the numbers sped down to the floor,

And as soon as you blink it read 6 then 5 then 4.

As the timer had come close to its end,

The numbers had started to blend.

3,2,1 is what it said,

Families looked at each other with love as they knew soon, they would be dead.

Because the world was about to be put to sleep forever, Friends, families, and lovers seemed to go on confessing endeavors.

Most of the world took a deep breath, ready to see what it read in the sky, Zero... Seth Hare, Year 7

These are other excellent poems which were close runners up!

Jaycob Marshall, Year 10

7 missed calls, 6 texts on read, those 5 words, never realised, had such an edge, 4 days rest, 3 steps forwards, 2 strangers again, 1 love story over.

Harry Hinson, Year 9

In shadows deep, where silence reigns, A battle fought with unseen chains.

Thoughts like whispers, sharp and cold, A story of courage yet to be told.

Each day a climb, a steep ascent, Through valleys of doubt, where hope seems bent. But within the storm, a flicker of light, A reminder that dawn follows the night.

Though storms may rage and tempests roar, Strength lies in knowing you’re not alone anymore. With every tear, a seed is sown, In the garden of healing, where love has grown.

Talented Pianist Comes to Bideford

An internationally renowned pianist will be performing in Bideford in November

Music lovers in the Bideford area will be able to hear Roelof Temmingh play works by Beethoven, Schumann and Prokofiev at St. Mary’s Church, Bideford on Wednesday 6th November.

Critics are impressed by this young pianist. Matthew Parris of The Times writes “ …Roelof played like a musician twice his age with the energy and passion of youth and the precision and fluency of a much more experienced soloist”.

Doors open at 7pm tickets at the door £16.50. Students, children and accompanying carers – free.

The next concert hosted by the Bideford Music club will be on Sunday 5th January at 3pm.

Diary Dates...

Baltics Adventure

An illustrated talk by Diana Goodacre. Devon Wildlife Trust, Halsdon & Dolton Local Group.

Wednesday 13th November 7.30pm, in Dolton Village Hall. Adults £2.50. Children free.

Burrington Christmas Fair Saturday 23rd November

Burrington Parish Hall 10am- 3pm. Admission free, with crafts, gifts, cakes and a raffle.

Christmas Bingo Thursday 28th November, at Burrington Parish Hall. Eyes down 7.30pm.

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RHS Rosemoor Glows with Seasonal Delights this Winter

You needn’t dread the shorter days and longer nights as the seasons change, because there are a host of sensory experiences to enjoy at the beautiful RHS gardens in the heart of North Devon.

The festive highlight must be the RHS Glow illuminations which transform the horticultural landscape into a dazzling winter wonderland. Explore the garden and make memories with friends and family on an after-dark trail of kaleidoscopic light and colour. For the first time, the twinkling route with atmospheric light and sound installations reaches the majestic arboretum, where you can admire a carpet of colour and harlequin trees. With family entertainment also scheduled every evening, it’s the perfect night out for all ages. Keep a look out for the opportunity to take a starring role! You are advised to book early to secure your preferred time on selected dates between 15th November – 28th December.

Prefer to make the most of the daylight hours? Plan to visit the garden between 9th November and 31st January to admire the work of 40 sculptors from across the UK, including local artists from the West Country. See over 200 sculptures, ranging from fluid installations to thought-provoking, large-scale pieces, set against the architectural textures and subtle tones of winter. Bring the children 9th-10th November or 25th-26th January to enjoy living sculpture performances in unexpected places!

If you plan ahead, you can even combine your visit with some retail therapy. Steal a march on your Christmas shopping at the Magic of Christmas Craft and Food Fairs, from Friday to Sunday 15th-17th and 22nd- 24th November and Saturday 30th November - Sunday 1st December, (admission after 4.30pm included with Glow tickets on selected dates). You can even pick out a UK grown Christmas tree, buy decorations and find gifts for the bookworm in your life from the Garden Centre.

Lose yourself in the magical tale of Beauty and the Beast at 2pm, Sunday 8th December, where bookworm Belle’s quiet life is turned upside down when she is imprisoned by a hideous beast. Or enjoy an evening of traditional carols with a mince pie and mulled wine with The Exmoor Carollers at the Victorian Christmas Carol Concert, 4pm Sunday 15th December.

However you plan to spend your holidays, you’ll find a great way to relax at RHS Rosemoor this winter.

Bamboozlement & Watchwords

Being a professional horticulturist with the RHS is an incredibly stimulating job in many ways, and keeping abreast of the myriad of trends, challenges and changes is key to enabling us to answer our visitors' questions in an informed manner.

A prime example of this is plants having their names changed; it is an ongoing process and really keeps us on our toes! As a result of scientists being able to study plants at a molecular level, some of our garden favourites (usually with easy to remember names) now have much more memory-challenging titles. The ever popular late colour specialist Michaelmas Daisy, known by us all for generations as the Aster, is now Symphyotrichum. The humble Stonecrop, or Sedum, a favourite late flowering bee magnet, should now be known as Hylotelephium. My final example (of the many) is Russian Sage; our Perovskia at Rosemoor is a stand out star in both the Cool Garden and Long Border and is now known as Salvia.

Winter is a great time to take stock of your garden and, if necessary, to plan your adjustments. Your changes could be based on many factors: “plant health”, “resilience”, wanting to be more “sustainable” or “adapting” to “climate change”. The five key watchwords mentioned in my previous sentence are primarily, and importantly, what dictates most of our decision making when determining the future of our garden areas at work and at home.

I was fortunate enough last year to work on a key show garden at Hampton Court with an eminent and well-respected horticulturist. It was a golden opportunity to glean inspiration and take away plant lists to add resilience to my green spaces, both at work and home. After much deliberation, the following beauties are amongst the ones to have made the shortlist.

Achillia ‘lachsschonheit’ (Salmon Queen) (Galaxy Series): this Yarrow is robust and able to grow in poor soils, broad flower heads start salmon pink with orange tints, fading to pink and cream, what's not to like?

Hemerocallis ‘Absolute Zero’ is a Daylily that steps away from the vibrant, hot colours, being almost white. Hardy and perfect for the Cool Garden colour palette.

Artemisia ludoviciana ‘Valerie Finnis’ AGM is a semievergreen perennial with woolly, white foliage and mimosa-like flower towers, great to weave through blues and yellows.

As for an alternative evergreen, I'm turning to Phillyrea angustifolia, known as the False Olive, with small white fragrant flowers and lance shaped leaves, it is low maintenance once established.

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Regardless of your particular tastes, garden style or individual requirements, winter is the time to take stock, think, research and plan for a less vulnerable garden. Enjoy.

Richard Wilson, Horticulturist

RHS Garden Rosemoor Image: RHS / Tim Sandall.

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