October Crier 2015

www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk

FREE October 2015

Great Torrington & District Community News & Events

The Crier is produced with support from Great Torrington Town Council, Great Torrington Commons Allotments Charity, Great Torrington Town Lands Charity, and a team of volunteers. 5800 copies are distributed door-to-door and throughout the rural district.

1

Torrington Town Council From Your Mayor

Torrington & District Community News & Events

Crier Contacts:

Editor: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Advertising: Esther Williams, 01805 603023 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA Copy deadline, 12 noon on the second Thursday of the month,

Next Copy Deadline

The next issue will be November, copy deadline 8th October.

Could You Distribute The Crier in Huntshaw?

If anyone would like to step up and take over this round, please contact via email at torrington.crier@gmail.com or pop along and see Kate at Torrington Library.

Where can you get the Crier?

The Crier is delivered door-to-door in Torrington, if you don’t receive a copy please call Becky Huxtable on 01805 603152. Criers are also distributed throughout the rural district, and are available at Torrington Library, Lidls, Budgens, the TIC, 1646 Cafe and the Plough.

2

I

thought August would be quieter but I have continued to attend civic functions and official openings.

Both the Pretty Maid ceremony at Holsworthy and the Civic Service in Barnstaple showed Devon at its best and most interesting. Cllr Sue Mills kindly attended with me. The Pretty Maid was certainly pretty, and the flower festival in the church was lovely, using church events in the calendar as the theme. The Barnstaple Civic Service involved local children who did a play on the parable of the bread and the fishes.The Bideford Regatta is something I have never attended, but it was fascinating watching the races up the River Torridge just four minutes apart. Teams had come from all over, including Christchurch, Torquay and Plymouth.

Together with past Mayor Richard Rumbold and Deputy Mayor Margaret Brown, I visited the Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club to support their application for funding from the Devon Community Foundation. They certainly are a thriving club for all ages and abilities.

Another thriving club is Slimming World and I was glad to be able to present the awards to successful slimming ladies.

I opened the Langtree Church Fete in early August, and was presented with a lovely posy from a little girl called Poppy.

I officially opened the Unique Boutique in Cornmarket Street which has changed hands, so do pop by and see what clothes they have in stock. Another most enjoyable event was the official opening

of the Men’s Shed, based at Torrington Football Club. If you are a man over 50 and would like some company, they meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Finally I was happy to congratulate Mr and Mrs Simons on the occasion of their golden wedding anniversary and Mrs Anne Baker on her 90th birthday, these are wonderful milestones to achieve.

Don’t forget the Silver Band Concert on Saturday 17th October at 7pm in the Howe Concert Hall. Tickets are £5 (children free) on the door. This is in aid of the Mayor’s Charities. Do visit our website to see what your town council is up to at www.great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

My telephone number is 01805 622409 and email address cathrinesimmons@ hotmail.co.uk.

Cathrine Simmons, Mayor

Remembrance Sunday Parade

T

his year Remembrance Sunday falls on the 8th November 2015.

The Royal British Legion will once again hold a Remembrance Ceremony at the War Memorial in the Cemetery next to the Old Bowling Green, commencing at 10.50am.

The parade will form up in Lidl’s Car Park, New Street at 10.15am and march from the Car Park to the Cemetery at approximately 10.30am. Organisations and members of the public are welcome to attend the ceremony.

Michael Tighe (Town Clerk) Great Torrington Town Council

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity 202801 Grants

T

he Trustees of the above Charity wish it to be known that they are willing to consider financial help by way of a Grant to any Church, Club, Society or similar organisation operating within the boundaries of Great Torrington.

Under instructions from the Charity Commissioners NO application can be considered from any Sporting Club unless any Grant awarded will be used exclusively for the benefit of the young or otherwise disadvantaged persons.

Application Form available from:The Steward 25 South Street, Torrington, EX38 8AA E: greattorringtoncharities@btconnect. com T: 01805 623517 Completed forms to be returned to the above address no later than Saturday 21st November, 2015.

N.B. Applications will NOT be considered unless accompanied with a recent copy of the balance sheet, bank statements or building society books.

Christmas Fayre in the Pannier Market

T

he Chamber of Trade Christmas Fayre and the turning on of the Christmas lights will take place on Sunday 29th November. If you wish to book a stall in the Pannier Market for this event, please call Kate on 07596 742 909. Stalls cost £20.

STITCH Update

T

he fight for Community Hospitals’ bad Ofsted report, and is effectively under Inpatient Beds has escalated special review measures, so they are just across North Devon with the hoping for Success! We will give you an announcement that the Trust has decided update on this meeting in the next issue. on three options to cater for the needs of The Clinical Commissioning Group vulnerable patients, with a total of just 40 have now pulled out of many of the beds. They are: ongoing consultation meetings, as they * Option 1 - All beds will be at the NDDH do not agree with the Trust’s undue haste * Option 2 - Beds will be divided between in closing beds. (See the article on page NDDH and just one Community Hospital. 6.) * Option 3 - Beds will be divided over two The whole ‘consultation’ process has Community hospitals. been a total sham and a gross waste Consultations have been held across of public money, with a staunch refusal the District, and the response from all by the CCG and Trust to listen to the Towns and Parishes is that it will not communities who best know what is work. None of these Options are safe needed in our rural areas. So, a petition for a rural area and has been launched will expose many “Consultations have been held for the CCG & Trust to across the District, and the patients to increased halt the whole review danger, as there are response from all Towns and and decision process. simply not enough Parishes is that it will not work.” We have circulated nurses or carers to it far and wide to provide essential 24-hour cover to cope ensure as many people as possible sign with the demand for medical needs. This it. Also, there is a Consultation feedback is a major concern for people from those form on the Trust website - www. professions who are already stretched, northdevonhealth.nhs.uk - where you can and who are unable to speak out to express your views on their proposals. employers, for fear of losing their jobs. This form needs to be completed before With NDDH already on black and red the proposed decision date in the first alerts, with winter approaching and with week of October, and can be completed potential flu epidemics or other medical online or returned to any Councillor, who emergencies, they cannot cope without will forward it to the Trust. our community beds being available.

We have to stop the closures and At the time of going to print, we are fight together in the name of democracy. waiting to find out the date that the Health Hopefully our MP with his legal background and Well Being Committee from Devon as a Barrister will find a strong avenue of County Council will be in Torrington to challenge. speak with patients, with regard to the By the time that this Crier is with you I ‘Success Regime’ announced recently. hope we have some better news.

A very misleading name indeed, as the Margaret Brown, STITCH Trust has received the equivalent of a

A J Installations

TV, DVD, Video and Digital Installations Got equipment you can’t use properly?

We can offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service With over 25 years experience in the North Devon Area Phone Alistair McMillan

01805 804626 or 07977 810 088

3

AGRIMOTORS Merton Garage MOTs - Tyres - Batteries Servicing - Repairs - Diagnostics Mechanics Tony Elston and Dan Heal look forward to receiving your call We can collect vehicles from Torrington

01805 603324 Fire and Water

A major new arts project in Torrington

A

rts Wave Devon invited local people in the Torrington Learning Community to an open consultation in July, to help design a new arts project for the Autumn. Dance in Devon and Wolf and Water will be delivering the Arts Wave Devon programme of activity, working with Devon County Council. Starting in September we have begun launching projects in dance, music, art and film, under the chosen project name and theme of Fire and Water. There will be a particular focus towards supporting groups working with children and young people, older people and people with disabilities.

Wolf and Water will be working with The Plough Arts Centre to launch ‘Meet Me at the Plough’, which will provide a weekly opportunity for local people to come together to share and develop their arts skills in a relaxed, friendly and fun environment. Wolf and Water will also support 30hz, local music industry professionals, to deliver digital music production and DJ workshops for a variety of local youth groups. There will be opportunities for young people to learn new skills, expand existing ones, learn about new and developing technologies in music production and have a go at creating their own music.

Dance in Devon will be running a series of Silver Dancers workshops at Woodland Vale Residential Home. There will also be public sessions in dance for older people at the local memory café, balance groups at day centres designed to improve balance, reduce falls and enjoy dance. Dance students at Great Torrington School will have the chance to work with contemporary dance company Cscape, performing a new piece at The Plough Arts Centre on the 14th October, opening for Cscape’s latest show. Dance in Devon will also be creating a site specific dance film project, bringing together a variety of local dance groups and dancers to make a piece in the local landscape.

We will be advertising all opportunities and events on our Arts Wave Devon Facebook page and our blog: artswavetorrington.wordpress.com To be kept up to date, join our Fire and Water mailing list by emailing Lizzy: projectmangerdanceindevon.org.uk or to speak to us directly call Jules at Wolf and Water on: 07941 648 059 or Lizzy at Dance in Devon on: 01803 868116 or via the email above.

Torrington Community Foodbank

O

n a windy, damp and chilly morning THANK YOU, to all those folk in Torrington who stopped to have a word or drop coins into our buckets. We appreciated all of the donations, which came to £127.95, but we valued more the kind comments and encouragement we received Torrington’s Community Foodbank’s aim is to support those within the town, and surrounding area, who have a need.

“Anyone who is struggling to make ends meet will receive help...”

All it takes is a sudden, unexpected event; bereavement, illness, change in benefits or an unexpected repair bill, redundancy or theft – to create genuine problems.

Anyone who is struggling to make ends meet will receive help, with a gift of food donated by people of Torrington.

Castle Gardens Surgery Please just call into either Castle Hill (over the Library) Great Torrington on a Torrington Flu Clinics lu clinics for all our patients aged 65 years and over will be held on Saturday 10th Saturday morning, or the Baptist Church in New Street on a Tuesday morning.

October and Saturday 7th November.

If you are under 65 and the department of health has recommended you should have Both are open between 10am and noon.

Torrington Community Foodbank an annual flu vaccination, you will be sent a letter inviting you to make an appointment.

Shirley Beer 01805 623887 To book your appointment telephone 01805 623222.

F

4

Unit 2C Hatchmoor Industrial Estate Torrington EX38 7HP Open Wednesday to Saturday

Fishing the Torrington Commons Waters

S

almon and sea trout fishing can starting next season, 1st March 2016, be very expensive. On some fishing will be by permit only, available to famous beats in Scotland for Torrington Residents only – free of charge! example, charges can be over £1,000 per Anyone fishing without a valid permit after rod, per week! Residents of Torrington are that date may be liable to legal action. blessed by having Tarka Outdoor “Residents of Torrington are an ancient right to Pursuits have kindly fish the Torridge, blessed by having an ancient right agreed to help us to an historic salmon to fish the Torridge, an historic manage this system. and sea trout river.

Simply show your salmon and sea trout river.”

Although in recent Fishing Licence years our river has (available on-line or not been at its best, from the Post Office) moves are afoot to and a document improve things a to prove you are a great deal!

Torrington Resident A salmon hatchery (e.g. driving Licence is now established upstream, and young or utility bill). You will then be registered salmon are being introduced into the river and given a numbered permit which is when they have safely grown beyond yours alone and is not transferable to the vulnerable stage. The Environment anyone else!

Agency, Devon Wildlife Trust and fishing Bound by the Commons Act of 1889, organisations, are working together with we are unable to issue permits to fish farmers, industry, local authorities and the Commons waters to non-residents conservation groups, to improve our of Torrington or visitors. We also have river - so we can now look forward to the authority, under the Act, to bar from the restoration of the Torridge as a prime fishing those who cause damage to our fishery. The Conservators are committed river environment or break the law. to supporting this valuable effort, and I Your fishing rights are a rare privilege, have been appointed as Fishery Warden so please help us prevent others taking to monitor the river, liaise with others and advantage. Be our eyes and ears by the provide regular river reports to the board water, and let us know if anything is not as of the Conservators. it should be! A good number of fish are in Whilst we manage the Commons the river right now and the future is very environment on behalf of the people of promising! Get out there and enjoy some Torrington, we also guard your fishing good sport, the salmon and trout season rights. Unfortunately, some outsiders ends on 30th September!

Alan Crawley have chosen to poach on our river and we Commons Fishery Warden cannot allow this to continue. Therefore,

Other Commons News

The Conservators have a new formal address so you can now contact us by writing to: Great Torrington Commons Conservators Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Please note that we no longer have any formal connection with the Town and Lands Trust and staff there will not be able to answer any queries in relation to the Commons. Contact us on our dedicated phone line 01805 462463.

and finally . . .

Our congratulations to the Cavaliers for a magnificent bonfire and fireworks event on the Old Bowling Green. They just get better and better, don’t they!

STITCH We want to hear your views

M

any thanks to all of you who have displayed our new ‘Beds Yes, Closure – No’ posters. It is good to know that you are still very much behind the STITCH campaign, and it also shows visitors to the town that Torrington people will fight to protect their community.

Thank you also to those people who have sent us their views and comments.

Keep them coming - it is your hospital!

If you are affected by ongoing health issues or simply want to make life easier for others, please let us know your views, ideas or concerns.

Our contact details are: Secretary: Sandra Crawley 07966 570367 sandra.guard@me.com Chair: Margaret Brown 01805 624375 councillor.brown@torridge.gov.uk

5

proceeds for the Methodist and Parish

VICARAGE HQ the Salon

01805

GAR

School Lane, (near 625489 A friendly welcome in a lo your Bedding a Family Hair aAll nd Wig Specialists

12 South Street ““We We care about your hair” air” Great Torrington Devon Ex38 8HE carnival queen and her attendants. wives shop to their hearts’ content!

The agreement again are provided NDHT proposed. www.newhairathq.co.uk Dolton’s three pubs all expected The Centre is available to hire for

Common & Unusual Shrubs, Grasses, and Free A

Statement re: Future location of Community Hospital Beds in Northern OPEN 10 –Devon 4 MOST DAYS , May F Community Information HS Northern, Eastern and Barry 018 Centre

N

Western Devon Clinical (opposite Sydney House Car Park, Commissioning Group (NHS next to 'Panamart') NEW Devon CCG)to announce is temporarily We are delighted that pausing its consultation on the future the 'Esteem' group - to support thoseof community services Northdifficulties, Devon. It suffering with mentalinhealth follows Northern Devon Healthcare NHS depression, fatigue, pain or anxiety Trust’s (NDHT) own decision to combine has been awarded grants from the the consultation to make services more Rural Devon Trust (through the Devon efficient, with the CCG’s consultation Community Foundation) and fromof the longer term Awards For All.future of the services.

As we laptops, were concerned We acanCCG, now buy enabling that combining two issues would the group to use the the internet in order to help them become an integrated complicate the process and and have acceptedpaused part of our our consultation. community. They therefore will be able to engageitsa intention support worker NDHT announced on 11th to assist with form-filling, producing a August 2015, to begin a six-week public CV, searching for education courses consultation on maintaining safe and and will care be able search for local effective in theto North Devon area, voluntary or paidbudget. work. The group has within its existing drop-in days three times a week, (see The CCG understands that NDHT diary) which include a 'listening ear',in has put forward a range of options someone from the community who is its consultation, related to a reduction happy to sit and chat, for those feeling of community hospital beds and we lonely and low. welcome alternatives to community The Centre also offers free legal hospital provision, which has been shown advice, and tenancy and debt advice, to in Devon, as(see well diary). as otherRev. parts bywork appointment, of England.

Graham Slingo comes in for a coffee Wechat, also welcome the a Trust’s and and we have started book commitment to provide more club for young people (read apubliclybook available information about home-based over a week or fortnight care, North Devon District then including come intheand chat Hospital (NDDH) site for community beds about it over a drink and and criteria for assessing cakes) on Thursdays after the various proposals. school/college.

On We support NDHT Saturdays, gents cantositdeliver costand readand withsafe a coffee, or but remain effective services, buy books from charity concerned that our some of the options bookshopdo 'Book UK',our while their proposed not Relief align with strategic direction. We also have misgivings about the speed and impact of change being

sufficient funds continue to provide We do after not 4pm, support permanently to benefit from the to carnival atmosphere meetings, through into the with highanlevel its acute closing beds community hospitals influxofofservice visitors.inThere will beand a evenings on in most days, and also onin aand roundabout, trampoline, fish and chips, occasional forincreasing small events hospitals.

North DevonSaturdays without first out- community Twoaround students from barbecue, and candy wagon. or trainingsupport, days. Please Kizview or Any further concerns you have of-hospital and it see is our Torrington School ha email: kizangell@btconnect.com out by that investment

by NDHT is needed in the current process being carried in a national w directed to them.

Thererun by t community services to enable them to NDHT, should YourbeVote Counts!

‘Copywrite’, st G r ways eScouts ato thave Charity Xmas & feedPartnership. in to their Harley thrive in future.

We Cards believeCATEGORIES: thisGifts can be are1numerous Torrington registered Cards by forrebalancing good causes and Fair with Nat and West Community Force,entered these are theMusgrave following: achieved resources from consultation Ship’ and to ‘Don’t Mak 1. St. Best floral display byTorrington a business Trade gifts hospitals will be ontowards sale in Mary’s people * Complete the which online invites feedback form on community community nd competition November to church Bideford from 2 vote for a local charity/ the Trust website at northdevonhealth.when th services. th and choice, this term have 2. number Best floral bySchool a publiccause house of their December, Monday Friday 10am7We nhs.uk/consultnorth. do support flexingtothe of display runners up. Both boy 4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm.

30 * Download thewith the winnerdocument and two consultation community beds to meet patientOver demand, have won a £50 Am 3. from Bestand floral display by an individual charities select your cards r u n nate(best r s - ugarden)* pThe English b e i n g departm northdevonhealth. but not to their closure.

Proposals to on the Trust website an interesting selection of gifts from awarded a grant. and Please go and to Harley nhs.uk/consultnorth e-mail permanently remove any inpatient beds 4. We Best by aKatie’s group,miniie, scouts, school, the Reube startfloral this display month with many parts of the world. www.communityforce.natwest.com/ wonderful that, once in community hospitals in North Devon feedback form to ndht.contactus@nhs. neighbourhood** st saga.

Torrington Scout projects/ and type 1 English lessons require a full assessment of their impact net or post it to Communications Team, competitions.

Group into theHealthcare project name box, From The(photograph Depths 5. Best back garden only)*** Dolton Carnival Northern Devon NHS Trust, on the community.

They’ve register and vote for us.

Please get as been in Nothing be seen; my pupils Devon, EX31 Flaming bands could Raleigh Park, Barnstaple, NHS NEWtorches, Devon drummers, CCG is therefore here are the two winn many of your friends and family to do stretched out like big glassy balls.

Light 6. Best allotment andtofireworks willthat givethe a current small Devon 4JB.or vegetable garden**** yet be assured NDHT up ahead seemed to be further, further, so as well, as if we are successful we a blaze of publicity * flushed Write down to Dr Alison Diamond, Chief proposals village increase overall service A wind the corridor. will beoutside able to our program of 7. further.

Best floral display a continue public building next month.

Executive, Northern Devon efficiency, rather than reduce the service I was whipped about like a tiny boat on a refurbishment to Scout HQ,Healthcare not Don’t only make (fire station, council offices, etc.)

Dolton’s annual rough, carnival, Alone in my room, no choppy sea.

A Raleigh screaming NHS Trust, Park, Barnstaple, itself. benefitting the Scout group, but all dates about back tothe Victorian I heard the door from pounded at my eardrums, wanting to Devon, EX31 4JB. We havewhich concerns impact 8. Best floral display a young person 16) those by who hire the hall. (under I heard my name bei breakthrough.

Unwanted thoughts tiptoed times, will be on Guy Fawkes * E-mail contactus@nhs.net. on community services, at the very time Fran Ashton on the p t h “Someone’s cautiously into my head and bounced N i gtrying h t , toSassist a t u r9.dacute a yBestunits 5floral * Call small on 01271 322460. when we are display garden around my brain.

November, which gives the (less than 20ft x 20ftthem approx.), balcony or courtyard. * Invite to a meeting if you’re part by providing more robust and sustainable I picked up of the phone Something’s festivities an extra spark of acoming. group or organisation can’t attend community services and we will It’s continue Son, how are y coming to get me......and there’s noandth“Hello Ode to Derek Stamp interest this year.

June closing categories is: For 30 Itinformation, was a2013 voice I haven way out. anyfor ofALL the public events. to talk with NDHT aboutThe the issuesdate Derek Stamp isecho 60, that Farmer Ralph Gent, one of An theecho key replaced It a voice the air, the call Nellie Guttmann on 01271 was 313971 or I used outlined.

Amay milestone in the his life, figures behind the DowlandCompleted country fairforms be left following addresses: only could be the beating of at my panicked e-mail her at nellieguttmann@nhs.net.

NHS NEW Devon CCG, whichPet is Shop, Nursery Home I said, “I’m fine, how’ AndVicarage we’ve come thisor farFerry’s together and dog show in June, isWhiskers organising heart.

Regarding the NHS NEW Devon CCG responsible for commissioning healthcare Hardware The voice said slowly The End. As devoted man and wife. the spectacular finale in which £1,600consultation process carried out between services in most of Devon, is trying to for asking.”

Thenight End. worth of fireworks will light up the th The End. 17 September 2014 – August 12 December balance a £40 million budgetJudging deficit.

2013. will take place on Tuesday He’s always there to 6hold my hand, sky.

Then thewith voice said v ...whispered into my the ears. ICCG felt around, 2014, is compliant NDHT remains the CCG’s only major And kiss me when I’m sad, “I will be coming in ne The Pipe & Drum Band, Samba touching the ice cold stone walls, fingers requirements and years, the decision, NHS healthcare Allstar provider to plan a national soul mateSomeone for so many Bandacute and Torrington Majorettes outstretched in My front of me. or 2013 Competition: wish to enter thefriend Torrington in Bloom in principle, to reduce beds in future, is since budgetary Devon.

Negotiations Best I’ve ever had. will all besurplus takingin part in I/we the parade Six weeks past, something entwined their fingers in mine. associated with agreed process on this the year’s contract toSomething provide through village, along with many was Then I saidto to myself taking over my an body; I Category: …………………...Address: …………………………… invest inanymore. community healthcare including community make promise wasn’t sure who I was We met when I wasservices. “just 18”,“Never brightly-lit services, floats, including this year’s New Buildings or Re R.PITTS Katie Huxtable, Caroline Dawe hospitals and related services, concluded Then call ………………………………………………………Post Code:……

Year 8 Managing Director – Northern Locality Frien in May 2015.

“BUILDING & RENOVATIONS”

Torrington In Bloom 201

Rol

R.PITTS Heavy Duty Gardening Compact Tractor

R.PITTS

New Buildings or Renovations?

New Building Ltd Then call your Local Tel:S&GCarpets 01805 624665 IWe clean your oven...

Mob: 07812 067199 Th Pure PILATES We clean yourrun oven are a family business Friendly Builder

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

Tel: 018 Mob: 078

specialising in all types of “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” www.yourgardencare.com Louise & Paul Banfield so..you don’t have have to... to. so you don’t Flail/Topper Mowing

General Garden Maintenance Rotavating, log sawing/splitting Garden Fencing Wood chipping, trimming etc.

Mobile: 07775 hedge 096657 Hedge Laying Call David Lock Stone Walling Garden overhaul and tidy R.PITTS on 01805 603 541 the farm Pergolas Small/odd jobs done around Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio

R. Pitts

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

Michael Harris, Petrockstowe 01837 811283

16 6 of dollars in royalties

On the 16th November there will be a

www.devonpilates.co.uk

l l l l l l

Dip FTST BCPA

flooring including Marmoleum, Cushion Vinyl, Safety Flooring, Contract Carpets, Wood and “BUILDING & your RENOVATIONS” To book clean contactFloors.

Gary today: Laminated e: purepilates@aol.com

01271 376263

8

Torrington and Hatherleigh. EX20

Tel:01237 01805 624665 Tel: 01805 624665 Tel. 477636 Mob. 07983298813 New Road, Torrington Web: ovenwizards.com/devon Mob: 07812 067199 Web. Mob: 07812 067199 Call us onovenwizards.com 01805 623112 water bottle Whibble!”

events to celebrat

Community First Responder Volunteers Needed Make a Difference in Your Community

H

ave you a few hours a week to The Torrington group does now have a spare? Would you like to help liveried vehicle, very kindly supported by New Road Garage and Budgens of Great your local community?

Exciting volunteering opportunities have Torrington, to be used whilst responding arisen within South Western Ambulance to incidents, This role is highly rewarding and offers NHS Foundation Trust for Community First Responders to join the Community opportunities to meet new people and learn valuable First Responder skills Scheme in “...meet new people and learn valuable lifesaving the Torrington lifesaving skills through the training through training provided A Community provided...”

by South Western First Responder scheme is made up of groups of Ambulance Service NHS Foundation volunteers who, within the community in Trust.

Applicants will have a good all round which they live or work, have been trained to attend emergency calls on behalf of education; a full clean driving licence held South Western Ambulance Service NHS for at least one year, with no more than Foundation Trust, and to provide basic life three current penalty points You can make a difference in your support until the arrival of an emergency ambulance, 24 hours a day 7 days a community If you would like to know more please week.

As a volunteer and member of this contact the Community Engagement Community First Responder Scheme Department, South Western Ambulance you would provide this community Service 01392 261646. Or you can apply based service, willingly and without pay. through NHS Jobs.

Parish Church News. New Parish Priest Appointment

T

he Churchwardens are delighted to announce the appointment of Rev. Peter Bevan as the Parish Priest for the United Benefice of Great Torrington, Little Torrington (with Taddiport) and Frithelstock.

Fr Peter will not be with us until December, at the earliest, but we look forward to welcoming him and his wife Ann, when they arrive.

An interesting display of wedding dresses and wedding photographs was held in the Church over the Bank Holiday weekend. Our late Summer Fete was held in the Church on September 5th and £584.25 was raised for church funds.

Coffee at St Michael’s is available from 11am to 1pm each Thursday until the end of October. Yummy homemade cake and a cuppa for just £2. Everyone is welcome.

Local People Invited to Open Day at Torrington Hospital

T

he NHS health and social care team in Torrington is inviting local people to the first of a series of open days at the town’s community hospital.

The first event takes place from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday 29th September.

Visitors can meet members of the team, including the new community matron, and find out more about the hospital’s transformation into a health and social care hub.

There will be more information about the new, extended, and ongoing clinics and services available; including day treatments, while people can suggest things they’d like to see at the hub.

“We were keen to hold some open days to enable local people to meet the team and find out more about the many services we offer at the hospital,” said Nikki Kennelly, health and social care community services manager in Torridge for the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust. Visitors can also learn about the care and support we provide to patients and families in their own homes, helping people to maintain their independence.

“There will be an opportunity to take a basic health check, including blood pressure, and find out more about local voluntary sector services. Refreshments will be available.

People arriving by car are asked to park nearby as the hospital car park will be for patients attending clinics only.

The next open days will take place on Wednesday 21st October and Thursday 26th November, both from 10am to 3pm.

TEL: 01805 622637 MOB: 07818 084633 EMAIL: gebsfires@gmail.com

7

PEE WEE’S CLEANING CO. Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Services Do you need help around the home?

Regular cleans, One offs, Deep cleans, Whatever your needs, contact Hayley for; * Vacuuming, Dusting, Polishing, Mopping * * Shopping, Laundry, Ironing * Any household needs catered for Ask for a quote to have your carpets cleaned with professional help of the rug doctor pro.

01805 622056/07989 254 504 Local, friendly & reliable team www.peeweewelcome.com CRB Checked, Fully insured

Men’s Shed – It’s Open!

C

athrine Simmons, Mayor of Great Torrington, officially cut the ribbon on 5th September to open Torrington and District Men’s Shed. After a viewing of The Shed, guests and visitors enjoyed cakes generously provided by Shedder’s wives and partners and tea and coffee kindly provided by the Football Club.

The Shed was fortunate to have John Beer, a Shedder from Bourke, Australia, a former Torringtonian and inspirational supporter of The Shed movement, as guest and speaker at the opening. Harry Cramp, the main mover behind Torrington’s Shed, are a group of older men who meet socialthanked the numerous supporters and ly to work on practical projects which help backers of The Shed, and paid tribute to the community, or pursue hobbies and the energetic group of Shedders who have crafts of their own choice and interest. If decorated and “...we are a group of older men who you interested in refurbished the taking a look at meet socially to work on practical old Band Room projects which help the community, or The Shed to see if at Torrington its relaxed atmosFootball Club and pursue hobbies and crafts of their own phere suits you, choice and interest.” transformed it into do just drop in on a true workshop. either a Tuesday The Shedders are particularly grateful to or Thursday morning from 9.30am-2pm those who have made the creation of the and join us for a drink and a chat; or conShed possible: Torrington Town Council tact either Harry Cramp 01805 938965 and the District Council, Torrington Town email: harryecramp@talktalk.net or David Lands and Poor Trustees, the local Darts Nainby 01271 379016 email: david.nainClub, Rotary and the Viscount Amory by@btinternet.com.

Trust. Thanks also go to Steve Tithecott The Shed is located in the main of Torridge Gates for supplying the high Torrington Football Club building at the quality wooden storage shed, essential School Lane end. From School Lane go for the Shed’s activities. We are also into the Swimming Pool entrance car park, very grateful to Garry and Lorraine turn left round the back of the Swimming Dymond at Torrington Football Club, Pool and go parallel to School Lane for for their ongoing support in letting the about seventy yards until you reach the premises and providing refreshment and steps on the right. Go up the steps and accommodation at the opening. you’ll see The Shed sign over the door.

New members are very welcome. We

8

Barnstaple Ladies Choir Seeks Assistant Accompanist

W

e are looking for an Assistant Accompanist to share the load of practices on Tuesday nights in Fremington, and to help accompany the choir at their concerts. Our programme consists of a varied repertoire including songs from shows, sacred and popular music. Our aim is to enjoy singing and entertaining people, and to help raise funds for local churches and charities. If you are interested please phone our Musical Director Mary Chant on 01271 860500.

Our website is barnstapleladieschoir. btck.co.uk.

Little Torrington Village Hall Events

L

ittle Torrington Village Hall will be holding their annual Dinner Dance on Friday December 4th with dancing to the Texans. We look forward to starting the festive season in the traditional style.

Tickets from Irene, 01805 623297.

Advance notice. The Pantomime Cinderella will take place at the Hall on January 29th & 30th 2015! Guaranteed to start the New Year off with a bang.

Are you looking to play Badminton?

There are places at the Wednesday evening sessions where you would be made very welcome, contact Sally on 01805 622252.

The Hall makes an ideal venue for a whole range of functions at reasonable hire charges. To book ring Rose on 01805 625194

s

27

R.PITTS

“BUILDING & RENO www.yourgardencare.com l l l l l l

R

General Garden Maintenance Garden Fencing Mobile: 07775 096657 Hedge Laying Call David Lock Stone Walling R.PITTS on 01805 603 541 Pergolas Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio

“ T M

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

16

Enrico Caruso (25thFebruary Year 10 1873 have –been to write August 1921)a per2ndasked

suasive review about a Part 2 What a great there are for no fair shame or festival digital mastered recordingsassessment. of Caruso. their GCSE English One cannot imagine timely how wonderful his Here is Charlotte’s reminder voice was. of one such fair we shouldBonfire treasure.

Cavaliers’ Trumpton Caruso’s 25-year career, stretching n behalf of the Torrington Cavaliers, from 1895 to 1920, included 863 Sending Outlike a Mayday I would thank New everyone for appearances atto the York their support of our Trumpton bonfire.

For Our Spring Fair Metropolitan Opera before he died of hope agree aHis fantastic weyou allow Torrington’s to anICan infection atallthe age itofwas 48.tradition fame night and to a the great event. dwindle? has lasted present day,Everything despite What into your mind went as picture wellmarketing as comes we had planned, and it the limited and promotional when you think of Torrington’s May Fair? all contributed to a spectacular evening. avenues available to him. He was, For many it is thea image the maypole, Even the weather was onofour nonetheless, client of side.

Edward laughter and sunshine; it would bean Two Tigers Bernays during Fireworks the latter’s provided tenure as a difficult to imagine Torrington without it. press agent in the USA. Publicity in Yet“Everything today, our historic went on astradition well asiswe Caruso’s time relied newspapers, under threat.

It is easy to allow had planned, and it all contributed particularly services, the pressureswire of modern life tomagazines, to a spectacular evening.” photography and the telephone. slowly strangle our cultural Caruso’s biographers, heritage.

In this fast age ofPierre Key, Bruno Zirato andandStanley Jackson awesome display, Trumpton burned high-tech gadgetry, mass attribute fame not instant only to his voice media as well ashis weand expected. and musicianship, a keen gratification, thereto is but little time It was great seealso the toCommons business sense and an embrace left for what really matters: packed with so many people, and of the community life.

Today, more since commercialwe sound recordings, thenshow in comments have received than ever, it Many is essential to its infancy. well-known opera how well it was appreciated. Please visit keep ourofhistoric celebration alive. Our singers Caruso’s time rejected our website Facebook pagefosters to the view week of and annual festivity phonograph (gramophone) and their photos and videos of the night. friendship, a sense of belonging andbut a voices have been lost as a result, Once again, our thanks golettothis alldie. those link withsingers our past.

We cannot other including Adelina Patti, who us cobbled throughout the Melba project As supported you walk the of our Francesco Tamagno and streets Nellie with sponsorship, materials and their ancient town, you breathe antiquity.

The exploited the new technology once May Fair links present-day Torrington time, particularly to the all the stewards they and became aware of success of with the past,out transporting us to a bygone who helped on the night.

Caruso’s recording sessions. era – when life was simpler.

We are made still working on finalising the Caruso more that 260 extant Torrington has hosted the annual May figures, and will be announcing the total recordings America for the Victor Fair since in 1554.

However, many money shortly.

Talkingraised Machine Company, (laterorigins RCA celebrations in England have their Thanksfrom once1904 again, Victor) to your 1920,support and heof our efforts will make a difference to many local people, groups and organisations.

O

th in earlier times: to the Roman Devonian dialect is strung across thea November there will be On the 9th 16 earned of dollars infrom royalties A even localmillions interest article the Gazette, October 1970 festival of Flora, goddess of fruit and square – Torrington is known as a at Barnstaple in aid of ACWW, from the retail sales of of the the Bideford resulting &lunch edition, courtesy District flowers.

This tradition, symbolizing rebirth friendly townCommunity and this is Archive no better the Associated Country Women of the 78rpm discs. In Italy in 1902-1903, he is particularly relevant to us today, displayed than at the May Fair. In this era World, of which the WI nationally is a cut five batches of records for the breathing new life into the winter of our of social isolation, the May Fair provides member. widely known, the G r a m o p h o n e a n d T y p e w r i t e r community. the medicineNot of friendship, inclusion and ACWW has representatives from many Company.

He was later heard live from Moreover, in keeping with the spirit of support. The fair encourages community nationalities; working relief for of the stage ofchildren the Metropolitan rejuvenation, are the focalOpera point life as the young and oldtowards join together poverty and sickness, promoting health House in the first public radio of the festivities. Much against Mr Gove’s the common good. What better way is and advancing education.

It’s down-tobroadcast in 1920. better wishes, Torrington’s schools are there to bring neighbours together? earth approach offersfarmutual support In the next you about closed to issue allow I will full tell community People come from and wide to and the practical to Fair. women and some of his operatic participation.

What roles. could be more enjoy delightshelp of May They also communities acrosswith the them! world. The fair Until then good listening appealing than watching the crowning of bring their money the May Queen? The procession of boys replenishes coffers of the and townthe – To find outthe about the ACWW Bob Dymond and girls in brightly coloured costumes providing welcome boost to the local Women's a Institutes nationwide, visit would melt any heart. Ribbons rippling, economy – such a help in difficult times. www.theWI.org.uk Torrington W.I. skirts skipping and the band blasting: the Businesses use about the carnival as W.I. an Any queries Torrington Our Annual Meeting will take place maypole is ceremoniously woven. opportunity to advertise their wares. ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on We are will onJust Wednesday 9th November. as the colours on the maypole Charities also benefit: collection tins are 01805 623588. be electing a new intertwined, so the May Fair breaks down soon full to overflowing.

President and social barriers as it appeals Yet it is often argued that historic celTorrington committee the to everyone.

Choirs,for dance ebrations Great are archaic and anachronistic. following year, Town Hall Projectfestivities groups and majorettes all On the contrary, Torrington’s taking a alook back By thethe time reportIn appears in take to the stage: feast for revitalise old this traditions. the current all ears. we Local have the eyesat and climate of you apathy, and The Crier, will laziness have noticed are and happily indifference, the been May Fair experienceddignitaries in the last year then scaffolding has put lifts our spirits peltedpreview in the of stocks and and Torrington getting a sneak speakers up totransforms facilitate the repair into a vibrant subjected to and duckings. community. booked for 2012.

Cups prizesThe will of the roof andDespite make thethe continual has awho lavish development of modern be awardedMayor for those didlunch, best to in building water-tight fortechnology and which many are invited.

The increasing time spent our optional monthly competitions, and the winter. It will be at computer town crier be bellows as tea he screens, last year’s record-breaking Bideford Phoenix Morris there will, of course, timeJoin for enclosed in waterproof shows therethe is the still aworking placePhoenix forarea live may have Bideford and a natter.proudly marches the streets ou turnout sheeting toseen protect of Being his predecessors and The Torrington entertainment.

Given the choice of andany dancing during the rather nifty at getting through Morris and playing to minimise risk to the internal Silver Band pulsates like the beating summer playing a video game or participating in in and around If you the business side of things, we will also fabric.

At the sameNorth time,Devon. a series of heart of the community. the buzz of the fair, I know which I would manage a bit of time to welcome Bob want to be active, have fun and certainly do something photoelectric panels will be installed, to The grand finale of the May Fair week choose…

Brewer, who will us the different not join us and a go! running-costs, perhaps is the carnival, a give spectacle of low-down light and whyreduce Today, the newhave enemy ofand a large-scale on the Cavaliers. provide an income for the project by As our dancing out season comes to an end we As are sound. Fanciful floats journey through the town event is ‘Health and Safety’.

We whilst start the at 7pm in are the lined Methodist selling surplus power to the National now with looking huge for musicians and dancers to be join us this town streets crowds gather, it could argued Church Hall, and prospective members Grid.

Autumn.

October ourofmusicians and cheering children.

In the packed town From that there isonwards a danger an accident. are very welcome to visit for free.

Any Although this work being square, you have no choice but to mingle meet Nowadays, theisridiculous rules dancers to practisewith our all dances for 2016carried at the newmake members paying their subs thisChurch out Hall, by the payment and new friends. and regulations it Bideford. is Trust, a struggle to Baptist MillTownlands Street, Why not month, months price of will be taken from funds set aside ‘Uz get be 14 plaised to for zeetheee!’

The organise anything.

In this age for of join us?

12. How about that! banner in Tothick Mayor’s welcome litigation, our Carolyn town is in the project, which havehall included find outcountless more contact Neil would and Bennion

Y

01237 473798 info@bidefordphoenix.co.uk

Easter Hall Park Stables Petrockstowe

Riding & Carriage Driving Lessons Beginners - to - Advanced Qualified staff - Fully licensed John Dobie, Mark Alford,Arenas Scott Cann Indoor & Outdoor

and Andrew Luxton are available to SOLICITORS see clients by appointment.

Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams Call 0180501837 623725 or or visit our622556 offices in 01805 Phone 810350 Okehampton and Exeter

6

call for emergencies

ormail@stones-solicitors.co.uk 01805 622556 www.stones-solicitors.co.uk

of them too but it would far exceed my quota of words.

9

Torrington Plough 10.30-11.30am, Samina 01837 buy 3rd books from ourBrownies charity at through village, with Film the 'Kill List' (18)along 8pm @ Themany Plough Torrington Baptist 682811 or I07974 43318”, 156 bookshop 'Book ReliefHall, UK',every whileterm-time their We met when was “just brightly-lit floats, including this year’s New Buildings or Reno R.PITTS Then call you “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Friendly 14 The Gallery • Computers at Torrington

l l l l l l

•

For Socks etc. • Town Museum • Times Past

• Crafty Needles • Odds & Sods • Fish ‘n’ Chips Restoration • Toy Swap Shop •

Great Torrington North Devon EX38 7EZ

GREAT TORRINGTON R.PITTS En-suite Accommodation PANNIER MARKET

R.PITTS

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

Rolan A.B.C. RBuildings STACEY New Renovations?

Anne Bacon or Catering New Buildings o Then call your Local Tel: 01805 624665 'BUILDERS' Mob: 07812 067199 Then Friendly Builder

Food Hygiene Courses

MrsWorkshops Tracey Martin Retail Outlets, Craft & Café & RENOVATIONS” “BUILDING Small groups, www.yourgardencare.com General Building Contractor ( (01805)623213 Open Monday to Saturday all day

Tel:Garden 01805 626110 • genesis@great-torrington.com General Maintenance Garden Fencing Tuesday HedgeThursday Laying to Call David Saturday Crafts, Lock Stone Walling * Food *541 ** General Market &603 Books R.PITTS on 01805 Pergolas 8am-5pm 9am-4pm www.locksbeamfarm.co.uk Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio email: tracey@locksbeamfarm.co.uk Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

British Red Cross • Sheena’s Sweetshop • The Market Café • Fiddlesticks

Great Torrington Memory Café

J

•

Buildin

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

F

running monthly in Torrington R. Pitts please telephone

All types of building work undertaken Renovations - New Build - Extensions Barn Conversions - Roofing - Plastering “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS” Damp proofing - Timber Treatment

01805 622604

Tel:624665 01805 624665 Tel: 01805 For a free quotation call For more information Mob: 07812 067199 Mob: 07812423176 06719907721 398 Tel: 01237

829

The November meeting is on the 12th ust to remind people that we have Wed 6.30-8pm Shirl wives shop to their hear Information impressed byyour the way some itCommunity had been recycle their cardboard -625965 place it in to the meeting roomatat and are hoping to have musical Usher,moved formerly Head Gardner safely for future generations.

Aswealways, evening will be The Centre is availa Centre conducted.bythat Some of their poems your new brownisbag and put out for the Methodist Church at the top entertainment Hestercombe Gardens.

The committee now working hard marshalled ourday. volunteers alonghave all Weightafter Watchers @ meetings, 4pm, th (opposite Sydney House Car Park, been on display in the Plough.

Their collection with your bottles, cans and It is to important for and people who your have raising funds for some of InMill Street, and held our first meeting April we have a coach outing to bright new routes encourage ensure Conservative e evenings on mostClub days next to 'Panamart') presentation was so well written newspapers. there in August dementia the Cornish Flower Show at Bocconoc to give the hall a7.30pm, fresh new safety at all times.

There’s a walkthat fortoI curtains Berni 0183 occasional Saturdays fo delighted to As announce that note can I wish decided their efforts should beof Community, a parting Aare Listing Social “If youatorhow a family memberfrom are five Estate.

We are look. everyone, toWe18 miles! when Renata – a delighted keep active and Free English or training days. Cours Plea the 'Esteem' group to support those recognized by a wider circle.

I have everybody a May Fair and Fundraising in happy the quickly seats been taken WhyEvents not come and join interm-time the fun on Delicious refreshments will be and provided personal trainer, and at Hellothe from thehave Mayor affected byand memory loss, then do stimulated Weds 7-9 email: kizangell@btconn suffering with mental healthApril difficulties, them along to Friday keeping my fingers crossed for toward for 7.30pm) when are now praying for decent weather.

26th (7 attherefore the end asked of your walk, Stagecoach Torrington and Surrounding came theto come memory café basics or aim Since lastalong writing to you Icome havealong...” depression, fatigue,wesunshine pain orcelebrating anxiety - St George’s Night. a once meeting of the Planning Committee – and warmth! are On the home front events. we will be hosting a will again be on hand end we try at totheprovide and facilitated qualification.

Jayne attended various District Areas.

Charity Xmas has been awarded grants from the Best you all. Car of the Town Council, to present their You will be assuredwishes of7985 ato or warm quiz with our ‘adversaries’ from other to ferry you backare to your starting point.

01237 4724 I spent the activities Saturday, 16th March an On armchair exercise session which which fun,Rural interesting and Cards for good cau Could Help?

Trust Befriending, (through Devon Cllr Mrs You Margaret Brown findings us are in person. welcome the and fun-filled evening with gardening clubsBideford in the area.

This year,towe hopingArrangements toDevon provide Langtree Unites Ne morningenjoyed. with Town Council to everyone stimulating. th Trade gifts will be on sa Community Foundation) heand Ageing WellMayor Projectof(sponsored Torrington at hot food have been made this on and 24 April at and from entertainment.

All for Our speaker in age-old May, 7thCourt entertainment alongforthe way more eve term-time (Junio celebrate Manor On the 27ththe August weTuesday took a trip down Keeping occupied andAwards stimulated can church Bideford from 2n For All. by the Big Lottery) has been (If each. you have views on the use of the Town Hall. The by future is theirs, and £7.50 th details).

7.30pm will be Howard locally (Seeany diary for ‘themed surprises’ some ofperson our 8-9.30pm)@ Torring ceremony.

This is on where members of improve the Tiverton Canal aWills, horse drawn quality of life for the December, Monday t 7 can hands now buy funds laptops, enabling established in of thethe Torrington area from the sale Eric Palmer I am confident it will be We in good the of aquestions National Collection marshalls!

Tessa 07971 083 51 thekeeper public of thetoCouncil, dementia, as well as for those barge.

The ask weather was kind us of and with 4pm, Saturday 10am-1 group use theforinternet in order to like Tue Centre, and would them in after listening to proved the the ideas they have about six months, andto weshare are pleased Sempervivums and He Nightwalk to be1to very Torrington Silver in peaceful the manner of a Jovibarbums. jury, about scenery making Torrington Uncovered charities to select yourB around them.has Activities can act as an the pace and beautiful help them become an integrated and Story time 10–10.30am in Library on The Crier, please send letters to put forward. to say that it is growing from strength-towill be sharing with us the the plantsTown. he popular and we hope this year will be 9.30pm, Nick 01805 improvements around st th an interesting opportunity for fun30andMarch, playfulness.

They made it a wonderful experience.

Acommunity.

New Book accepted part our They5's Tues ofofevery month for under 1 Isure torrington.crier@gmail.com, ormatched drop selection was again On than Saturday strength.

We have successfully found on a visitalso to Madeira. better ever. So make you Film 'The There an interesting talk can many parts of Hedgehog the world.

We hadwas two meetings in September; also encourage independence, social My book about Torrington is finally will be able to engage a support worker Fitness League taster classes every them into the Library, thanks) at the Plough for the Dream Kidz nearly thirty befrienders to lonely or For more about the Society ring Sally rally your friends, family and The Plough given about the local pottery. a talk by Alison from TorrAGe about the inclusion, communication expression onThe its way! toand assist with his form-filling, producing a Tues 10-11am @ Plough production and isolated elderlyMichele people.

The impact our Ramsden, on 01805 623152, email a colleagues, andof getJoseph your registration That same evening I attended feelings. services they offer, and at the second of CV, searching education courses I haveTorrington written it Town as series of Carn 01237 422195 07527406743 Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Sold Dolton Thu 3 lives Great Council volunteers have made on a people’s sallyramsdenindevon@hotmail.co.uk your entryout fee.forfor or celebration of St Patrick’s Day at the forms in fast, along withand will be able to search for local questions that newcomers are likely to If you or a family member are affected meeting a quiz.

1st Torrington Guides every Tues at practically every performance, thisand was can be summarised in this Flaming Pannier Generaldru M feedback. orPlough turn upwith to aBig meeting at Torridge the forms Al and his band Feel free to photocopy voluntary Notice of Annual Meeting of torches, the ask about Torrington and itswill give oralong paid work.

The group has Torrington Rugby Club 7-8.30pm Linda then do come From October we go back to one bya memory fabulousloss, evening offriends music and fireworks 10am–4pm Vale Social Club.. and “She’s someone you feeland instantly at ease playing Irish folk tunes. Some visitors pass them around todrop-in Town Council daysonthree times a week, (see the answers, surroundings and of Toddl Masterson 01805 623212 get a warm welcome for everyone at meeting a month; the second Thursday of and entertainment by the young people of with; village Little Fishes and pay Sally Ramsden I really look forward to her coming.

It a bla from France, along with their delightful family, or you can register diary) which include a 'listening ear', Notice is herby that: varying andgiven detail, to next thosemonth.

Beaver Group boys & girls 6-8yrs thecafé, Town.

We as really are very lucky to has madelength the as well getting support and each month, when we have a presentation Torrington Baptist C line at www.nightwalk.co.uk.

Please such a difference…” children, danced around with adults in someone from the questions. community who isare 64 There sections on The Annual Meeting and every term-time Tues @ Scout Hut, have such talent‘Early in Torrington.

The Dolton’s an byLeprechaun Legal Solutions to keep us informed information. time Thurs 9.30-11.3 note that the £10 Bird’ entry fee In order to help others in160 ourofcommunity costumes. It was a fun Nightwalk 2013 happy to the sit and for those feeling different topics and black and dates Inauguration of theover Mayor thewhich above Anne Lewis, Beaver kids standing ovations at endchat, b about changes to the socialand carewas act well and remains For had further information then please family.

Wendy 0180 April and the same till 1st 4.30-5.45pm evening’s entertainment we need more volunteers, who can offer Get ready for another lonely and low. named Town Council will be held at the white photographs.

I hope that, as well Leader 01805 601580 of their performances and there are times, will be contact Pauline on 01805 625969. the financial implications.

Rosemary Conley be £15, so supported,toasremember Ann Tattersall’s events thereafter the fee will The an hour a&aweek to for chat and provide Nightwalk alsojust offers free legal asPlough providing guide visitors, Arts Centre, Great Torrington Spiritual Healing 3-4.30pm 7-9pm. rumours of them putting onCentre another NBluecoat ithis g h t , Ear Sa Class, please get your entry in fast! th always are.

Yet another of her th company for someone.

We keep our on Saturday 18 May and tenancy and debt advice, will contain of material that May 2013 at 7pm. on Tuesday 14 plenty 01805 622883 performance in Juneadvice, forFrithelstockstone, those that book November, wT 6.30-7.45pm every successful afundraising events my recruitment process simple and public are 2013…and new legFLYBE near for is ofThe interest to townspeople. by to appointment, (see diary).

Rev. meeting is open to the Bingo Taddiport Village Hall every were not lucky enough get tickets GTS Partners with to Build a Plane! festivities 01237 424787 an chosen charities this year, The North Spring Has Sprung at happy volunteers ofthis all ages Holsworthy!

Graham comes into forwelcome a coffee I would like towelcome. take this opportunity toWorld TV who are most Tues, eyes down 7.30pm thisfor time around. huge thankSlingo you to interest year. xciting newsand at Great Torrington Academy students whoA will Slimming Devon Hospice the Plough. and from all walks of life.

Nightwalk is now in its seventh year, Little Torrington and chat, and we have started a book Michael Tighe, Town Clerk thank all the local people who have Rugby Training at Donnacroft every Stephanie Easton Farmer Gent, have ththeMarch chance starting in Autumn build a kit plane:and the Liz Harris and 5.30 &Ralph 7.30pm Bev our children atfor the to help On and we 27 are hoping you will sign up Please callawrite us on 622666 clubTues for young (read book Therestsnowdrops have helped me this01805 book bybehind givingor 7pm the of the production team for allpeople figures the Dowl Groppo.

624955 Junior Schooltells invited and I to been lovely, the primroses what everyone us isCheryl a memorable if Training youin June overFilm a week or e-mail fortnight generously of providing me 'Troll Hunter' (15) enquiries@torrage.org.uk 8pm @ their The time, their hard work and effort. and dog show Great Torrington May Fair Rugby at This is oneapartpresentation of the school’s on new initiative to develop the Science, receive the are night - rest assured we’ve ordered fine are interested, we very much look forward out and the daffodils then come in and chat with information and lending me their Plough On the topicThis of funds from the sale of the spectacular finale in st th Thurs 7pm, clubhou Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) departments. joint & Carnival 1you!to 4 IMay 2013 regeneration of our Town and their on the bank at the topabout weather and a lovely sunset! over a drink and from Everyone photographs. have spoken to hearing the Eric Palmer Centre, of I haveit received worth of fireworks will lig Writers, Poets and venture will begin with the delivery of the kit plane in early September.

Great Torrington’s May Fair & visions theunforgettable future. Thisevening, was the Mile Hill approaching cakes) This willfor be an on 2Thursdays after the Wed has shown an interest in the project We are also looking for volunteers of letters, e-mails and toPS. sky. @ the Plough GTS Governors and full staff thisInside will be themany first ofcopies a number of projects designed result of their viewing the recent Carnival is a time for fun, laughter and Little Tadpoles stay & play session with an atmosphere ofhope anticipation, casking h o o linto / cFather o l lae g eto . help n enjoyed village are about to s burst and IOhave to you all.on with a regulartalking coffeeThe morning telephone callsin class all Pipe &aBazaar Drum Christmas to give our students rare opportunities to use what they learn in real ‘handsOut programme.

They spent many we all hope great weather!!

However, every term-time Wed 1-3pmand 01805 memories and camaraderie. Many Torrington Uncovered will Watch’ beMethodis Saturdays, gents Wednesday can sit magnificent display of spring colour.

Lawrence to reconsider the decision for a ‘Well-being Band and Torrington Al 3.30pm @ on’ ways.interviewing We are grateful the support encouragement of FLYBE622747 who will be it can be the a time when we see an weeks townsfor people in the andSpring Nightwalkers wore fancy dress last and Victory read a coffee, or also Fever hit the Hall available from weekend following made by thehas Trustees.

The with Town volunteer who will all be taking part include refreshment increase antilaunch social behaviour, square, visiting and they as well; new fireproofbuy actively involved thisshops project.

3rd Torrington Brownies atin the year which was with alocal wonderful feature; books from charity to behalf the ourcould May Fair, on Saturday Council has agreed to doors write on through the village, call after clients Film 'Kill List' 8 underage drinking, violence and (18)alo also visited the old creamery site atnotice the storage th Watch GTS Facebook for advance of the delivery and for progress reports.

Torrington Baptist Hall, every term-time whether you decide on fancy dress or bookshop 'Book Relief UK', while their at the Plough. brightly-lit floats, cupboards have been installed 4 aMay of the Community. includ for regular chat. criminal damage! bottom of Mill Street.

I was so not, you are warmly welcome!

Moira Brewer in order to store Parish can Records Everyone in the Torridge now

Diary

Great Torrington Town Council

T

Nov 2011

E

SliceCafé of Life, High Street Torrington The and Garden @1646 Phone Orders Welcome 01805 628080

DeliciousOpen organic8.30-4pm soups, locally made bread, cakes andSat sausages, Mon-Fri & 8.30-2pm Cornish cured bacon and free range eggs.

Fresh homemade fillings for; Local*stockists of The Bay Tree Company award winning chutneys Baguettes, Wraps, Jacket Potatoes, Salad Bowls, * & Jams, all made in the West Country. * Panini, Toasties, Pasties & Sausage Rolls, Homemade Soup, * All Day Breakfast, Sausage &IN Bacon * DOGS* ON LEADS ARE WELCOME THE Baps GARDEN * Italian Coffees,FREE Teas,WIFI Cakes, Milk Shakes, *

10 2

*Castle Hot Chocolate cream & marshmallows Hill, South whipped Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA * Tel: 01805 626146 Email: 1646@great-torrington.com All available for take-away or eat-in Visit our website at: www.torrington-1646.co.uk

Great Torrington North Devon A EX38 7EZ

new book...

R.PITTS En-suite Accommodation TORRINGTON UNCOVERED Mrs Tracey Martin

“BUILDING & RENO

by Moira (Brewer www.yourgardencare.com (01805)623213

l l l l l l

General Garden Maintenance and join us for a glass of wine Come Garden Fencing Hedge Laying at the launch Call David Lock Stone Walling * *541 ** R.PITTS on 01805 603 Pergolas www.locksbeamfarm.co.uk - 12.30pm Saturday 4th May 10.30am Mobile 07854 816 066 Patio email: tracey@locksbeamfarm.co.uk Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

in the Plough Gallery

23

R

“ T M

Organic & Wholefoods Buying Group Join us and save money!

W

e are a newly formed group of households in the Torrington area, placing a combined grocery order with an organic and wholefood cooperative. We would love to welcome new participants.

What are the benefits?

Abbeyfield Coffee & Cake on International Older Persons Day October 1st

A

bbeyfield is an international charity providing supported sheltered housing in a homely situation. Torrington residents of Glen Tor have enjoyed the beautiful garden and views throughout the summer and have also been on outings to see the Trumpton Bonfire site and to Westward Ho! They are delighted that the driveway to the house has been resurfaced. It makes the house looks very smart.

October 1st is International Older Persons Day and to celebrate this, you are invited to Glen Tor, Villa Road for Coffee and Cake, between 10.30 and 11.30am. All donations are to be given to The British Heart Foundation.

We are also holding another open morning on Thursday October 22nd from 10.30-11.30am. Please feel free to come and see what we have to offer.

There is currently a vacant room in the house and if you think that you, or a loved one, would like to be freed from the daily chores of cooking, cleaning and laundry, why not ring our housekeeper on 01805 623605 for a chat and perhaps arrange a visit to meet the staff and residents.

We improve the range and quality of our families’ diet and health; spend less time and money running around shopping for items unavailable locally, and also order regular store cupboard items. Generally we save 25% by buying wholesale, so we get more for our money. By ordering together and sharing, our individual outlay can be modest, but we still reach the minimum order value and qualify for free delivery. We also find that other group members introduce us to new products; we swap recipes, knowledge and have a chat and a laugh with other local foodies with an interest in health and green living.

Who is this for? Anyone!

The group is informal, community based and currently not for profit. We welcome families, singles, old and young alike, small businesses too. We hope doctors, therapists, community workers, schools, sports clubs and more will find this useful for their clients and network it to their contacts. There are no limits - there are many different ways to grow and develop. The whole idea is to be INCLUSIVE rather than exclusive!

How does it work?

We aim to order regularly once a month. Goods come by the case/bag or sack, but of course group members can share these and we have a system to make this easy.

Mary places the order and the goods are delivered to her house for prompt collection.

How do I get invoved?

To find out more ring Mary Crail 01805 623 307 or email mary.crail@yahoo.co.uk

Why am I doing this?

Because I want to make organic, wholefood and green groceries available and affordable to all, and because I feel this is one way I can contribute to the community.

Mary Crail

Free Night out at the Milky Way For children with special needs

T

he Rotary Club of Torrington invites children with special needs and their families to a special FREE Night out at The Milky Way Adventure Park, Clovelly, on Friday 23rd October 2015 at 5.30pm. The Milky Way and all its facilities have been put at the disposal of North Devon Rotary Clubs for this special fun evening. If you and your family would like to attend please contact Rotarian Sue Evely on 01805 601498 or email sueevely@hotmail.com for details.

Please check out the Milky Way’s website www.themilkyway.co.uk.

11

Oakwell

Professional Fitting Service

01805

Supported sheltered housing for people aged 55+ at Abbey622614 field GlenKitchens Tor, Villa Road,Ltd Torrington.

Please phone 01805 623605 if you, a family member, or a friend is interested in becoming a resident, or look at the website: www.abbeyfield.com Email:abbeyfield.torrington@btconnect.com Exempt Charity registered as an Industrial and Provident Society No 23413R and with the HCA No H3383

T

Helenheand I have represented the Military Wives from Chivenor, Town atOrchestra, many civic and the Hartland have including kindly agreed toevents, give a Charity Concert church services for the in aid of Northam Lodge on Tuesday th Chairs of North Devon November 24 2015 at the Bideford District Council and Methodist Church, High Street, Bideford, Torridge District at 7pm.

Council.

Charlie Dixon, Executive Director of We enjoyed a trip to Bideford to Northam Lodge, said “weand are very watch their Regatta on excited 10th about this event and are hoping it will raise September watched the spectacular much needed funds for Northam Lodge.

Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, The visiting Militarybands Wivescoming have been with from wonderful all over in helping the UK. us organise the concert and we areBarnstaple delighted that FairtheisHartland always Orchestra a wellare able to day, join the event this supported with all and the make “Chain a truly local musical celebration.

I believe Gang” out in force to celebrate the there willofbethe some songs tradition Fair.well-known The weather wasas well as as we some new around ones and of whilst course kind walked town, the declaration of the opening of the some audience participation.”

Fair was read.

Immediately Tickets will be £15 eachafter andthewill formal part of the proceedings had be available from the Northam Lodge finished, dashed down to Newquay. website, we www.northamlodge.co.uk from ItOctober was time to put prefer on a ‘posh 1st. for OrHelen if you would please frock’ a reception celebrating the contactforAnnabel Cope on 01237.477238 ‘South West in Bloom’ competition. or emailtickets@northamlodge.co.uk.

We still had to wait until the following day to hear the results, and were proud Coffee and when Cakeit Morning at and delighted was announced that the Torrington in Bloom team Weare Giffard Village Hall had won a Silver Gilt (last year it was ome along for coffee, silver). Thank you to the committee, cake, egg and bacon traders and individuals who work so rolls and a meat raffle at hard to enhance our surroundings in WeareTorrington.

Giffard Village Hallsoon have Great We will on opportunity Saturday 3ofrd meeting Octoberthe judges the 201510am till noon. to find out how we can do even better Raffle tickets are available – our next challenge is GOLD!!from Tracy: 01237 478043.

Supporting Weare Giffard Our last out-of-town engagement Village Hall refurbishment/rebuild.

C

Qualified, Experienced, Reliable & Insured We supply trade price, ready assembled, Howdens kitchens Free design & estimates 12 months workmanship guarantee

www.oakwellkitchens.co.uk

Charity Concert with the MilitaryMayor’s Wives &Diary hectic Orchestra month has passed. theAnother Hartland

Save ££££’s on high street installation

Inheritance Tax Changes

C

an you and your family benefit 2020-21 (or £350,000 for married couples was at Hatherleigh Community Centre or civil partners) This will be added to the from inheritance tax proposals to see many of their residents receive announced in the budget? The existing thresholds.

Community Awards. This is similar to Secondly, the home must be left to Chancellor, George Osborne, declared the awards we have in Torrington, that he will effectively raise the individual children or grandchildren for the allowance which recognise people who have be available. inheritance tax threshold from £325,000 to Sir Duke here again – wow how made a difference to their town.

Thirdly, if someone ‘downsized’ to It£500,000, for those with a family quickly a month goes by!has Well Autumn was lovely to at last welcome, and or has home.

Married is definitely had uponto be involved with, the Induction of “The new rules will mean that people will sell their home, couples and us and many of Father Lawrence MacLean. We hope example civiland his partners have to think carefully about how theythe for rescue dogsto he family will be very happy in for nursing maytown, therefore gaining their our and the deal Church Fete at the with their property, particularly inare pay homecoats fees inor be able towas pass winter Vicarage a good opportunity forolder us age” to move into on to estates to readiness for the all meet them. then their theirThe children or grandchildren up to supported accommodation, onset of Winter!

Co-op and Town worth Traders forhave an ‘inheritance £1million, without paying inheritance tax. estate may still qualifyWe been as arranged a Harvest Festival in the as ever of with Pannier Markethouse on prices in the South tax credit’ up to the busy full amount the With average th threeof this newaredogs the yet to West11nowSeptember. exceeding £200,000, more and allowance (the full details This was the being taken in who were due to be put published). more people werefirst having to find ways to be one organised I sleepnew – I rules don’t will really know why as mean that people minimise their and inheritance tax liabilities. to“The think will become a theyhave are to lovely very friendly – they thinkand carefully about how they This itlatest announcement will therefore will regular event relief on theto those with higher deal even with like children! their property, particularly in be of some Torrington calendar.

Bruno, 12-month-old that older age”our says solicitor andpuppy inheritance value homes and other assets.

Finally, we tried to attend as many needs an eye operation, is still However, the change will not happen tax specialist, Alex Jenkins. “Early advice Macmillan coffee mornings as possible bouncing around and we are well on immediately and there are some is recommended if you want to maximise and in fact ended up going to five! our way to raising the £3,000 needed tax savings and you may need to change technicalities to be aware of.

This is a wonderful charity and it‘s not for his operation.

Firstly, the £325,000 per person your Will now.” surprising that it’s so well supported.

We have been chosen as one of For more information on minimising (£650,000 per married couple) threshold After all those coffees we went toth the three charities to participate in a will remain. It will not be until 6 April your inheritance tax liability and related Soap Kitchen shop to see Lesley and fantastic scheme run by Animal Alex Jenkins at Toller 2017 thatPhillips a ‘familywho home’ allowanceten will issues Richard celebrated Friends contact Insurance.

Basically the th £100,000 for Beattie on 01271 341000. be introduced, which will be years of business on 30 September. charity that receives the most votes 2017/18, rising in to £175,000 in gets a whopping £5,000. So come on Congratulations to stages you both.

I look forward to hearing from you if all you Facebook fans, please vote for Freehave Improve English you Classes you an eventYour or anniversary us, in andTorrington pass the word around to all mprove Your English classes run every Wednesday 8.30pm Torrington want to tell me about – just call me your friendsfrom and 6family.

It isatsimple to Fire Station. to brush up on skills such nothing. as punctuation, spelling, 01805 625662, So, orif you our want secretary, vote, and costs Just go to: grammar, and discussion do come along.

These classes, run by Learn Devon, Pauline atreading the Council offices on 01805 www.facebook.com/feelgoodpark and are free of charge to those without a GCSEonEnglish qualification andyou canwill leadsee to a 626135. the left-hand menu nationally recognised qualification.

Councillor Richard Rumbold ‘Vote for Charity’. Click this and it will Please contact Rosemary Dymond 472462 to discuss possibilities Town Mayoron: 01237 take you through to a page showingor email: rosemary.dymond@devon.gov.uk or charities alternatively drop into theThen session in the scheme. clickforonan informal chat.

I

PEE WEE’S CLEANING CO. Domestic & Commercial Cleaning cleaning Services services

Dafforn & Son

noS & n Dafforn r o ff a D & S

STEGGLES TREE SERVICES TREE REMOVAL AND PRUNING, INCLUDING HEDGES

Roger P. Byrom Do you need help around the home?

Regular cleans, One offs, Deep cleans, Independent Family Owned Whatever your needs,Directors contact Hayley for; Funeral

Torrington * Vacuuming, Dusting, Polishing, Mopping * * Shopping, Laundry, Ironing * Any household needs catered for 6 New Street, Torrington Ask for a quote to have your carpets cleaned with professional help of the rug service doctor pro.7 days a week 24 Hour personal 01805 622056/07989254504 Local, friendly & reliable team & monumental Funeral plans masonry www.peeweewelcome.com CRB Checked, Fully insured

srotceriD larenuF tn01805 Independent edne622263 pednI Funeral Dire

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

TEL: 01805 622868 - MOB: 07876 454361

12

EMAIL: davestegg@hotmail.co.uk

Pause For Thought

W

e read in the bible at Matthew 7:13 about two ways or paths; one is wide and the other is narrow. It says ‘broad is the gate and the way that leads to destruction and there are many who go in by it. Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.’

Since becoming a Christian, God has led me over different paths. Some twenty years ago He gave me a picture in my mind; a white sign post was pointing to a narrow grassy path, the path was rising a little, He said it was the path he wanted me to go on, there being no stones to hurt my feet, and I must not look back.

This was a great challenge to me as it meant many changes; like moving from the Church fellowship where I was happy and comfortable, to one that was much different and challenging. After a number of changes and different paths, I am still moving on to yet another path and more challenges. Looking back, I am so thankful for that picture and the amazing greatness of God that I have had the joy of experiencing since.

God’s narrow path leads to life and heaven. If the broad path has been chosen, we can change to the narrow by repenting of our sins and asking Jesus to come into our hearts; He transforms our lives no matter what we have done in the past. Recently a broken man came to our Church and gave his life to Jesus, already changes are taking place, and he is experiencing God in his life.

The broad path or the narrow path the choice is ours.

Vernon Andrew (01805 623230)

How to Start a Family History 4

S

o, we have looked at starting a family history using your knowledge, and that of the family (and bearing in mind a need to assess the reliability of the information given). We have looked at Censuses back to 185, and touched upon using General Registration for births, marriages and deaths, since 1837. It is worth recalling that the information there is not entirely gospel. Births which were registered late incurred a fine, so sometimes the baby gets a birthday a few months late in order to avoid this. Also, deaths get registered by many different people. Look at the column ‘relationship to deceased’, as if it is a doctor, age and date of birth can be guesses.

There are short cuts to avoid the expense of getting certificates, but they involve some educated guesswork which can only be confirmed by getting the certificates. However, you need to remember a few dates. In the GRO indexes which are all on-line recall: Births: from September quarter 1911 the mother’s maiden name is added Marriages: from March quarter 1912 the partner’s surname is added Deaths: from March quarter 1866 the age at death is added Deaths: from June quarter 1969 the date of birth is added If you have a death entry you can look for the marriage (remember the bride will

die with her husband’s surname). Take a guess at the date from the age at death.

Deduce a date of birth; add 26 years and search 10 years either way on that. You won’t get them all, but you should get it most times. You may have both names, and the addition of the spouse’s surname since 1912 should mean you can identify the marriage to a quarter, unless both names are common. If you find too many using one spouse, search under the other spouse’s name.

When searching for other children of a marriage than the one you know, enter the surname in the search criteria and then lower down add the mother’s maiden name; take a guess at the earliest date of birth (I take the marriage date, subtract three years to allow for an illegitimate first child) and add 10 years then search for 10 years either side of that date. You should get all the children with that surname and mother’s maiden name. If you can narrow down the search geographically as another criterion, you can get almost certain.

Remember, ages and dates of birth at death are only as accurate as the informant’s information. Also, if you get muddled with too much information, try cross-referencing to the Censuses which should give you an address for the search area in the GRO indexes. I’ll give you an example of how to work this next time.

Jon Frayne

STUART STACEY CARPET & VINYL FITTER

Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator

ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED REFITS UNDERTAKEN REPAIRS & RESTRETCHS MEASURING MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

• Interior and exterior painting • Paper hanging • No job too big or too small

01805622967 or 07767024688

Fully qualified tradesman

For a friendly reliable service from a local tradesman ring:

T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

13

Torrington in Bloom

I

am writing this article in August for the October issue, so I can’t include any results for the Britain in Bloom or Best Garden competitions. However, I can state that both judging days were very successful and we are hopeful that we have retained our Silver Gilt status with Britain in Bloom.

The Best Garden judging day went extremely well, there were a number of new entries this year which was good and overall entries were up. Consequently, we didn’t complete our tour of the town until mid-afternoon! Our last port of call was the Puffing Billy, where we were supplied with some delicious crab sandwiches and about a gallon of tea!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sarah Chesters for judging the competition again, and also to Nigel Stark for being our chauffeur and photographer.

We were all pretty tired afterwards, but what a great day we had.

One thing we all noticed, for both those who entered the competition and those who did not, was the lack of watering of hanging baskets in particular. It seems such a shame when someone has gone to considerable expense and effort to create a lovely display only to forget to water sufficiently. Containers and baskets need watering every day, sometimes twice a day even if the weather is wet – rainwater just doesn’t penetrate

14

Partnership Working to Tackle Dog Fouling in Torridge

D

og fouling remains a significant problem within Torridge as elsewhere. While most owners behave responsibly, by picking up and properly disposing of their dog’s waste, many do not.

In order to address this issue, partnership working with other agencies has been undertaken and Torridge District Council have engaged with the Devon & Cornwall Police, and their Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), to assist in issuing fixed penalty notices to offenders. The public face charges of up to £75 for failing to comply with these measures.

Torridge’s Lead Member for the Environment, Councillor Alan Whittle said “I welcome this new initiative. With Torridge District Council and Devon through the foliage into the soil. Regular, weekly feeding is also essential even if you have mixed slow release fertiliser into the potting compost, after a few weeks they will need a booster feed. Check out the baskets in the Pannier Market, or outside Taff’s Fish & Chips shop, or the Conservative Club… these are displays which are watered and fed regularly.

Having stated the above, there were plenty of outstanding displays of pots and baskets, and some very attractively planted and designed gardens – I think we shall have some very close results again this year!

Cherry Hammon, Chair Torrington in Bloom 01805 625788

& Cornwall Police working closer together this will increase the number of enforcement officers who can prevent, detect and enforce current national and local legislation. We can better protect the parks and public open spaces, making Torridge a cleaner and safer place to live and visit.”

Inspector Brock, Devon & Cornwall Police said “This commitment across our agencies to tackle the issue of dogfouling is evidence of the co-operation which exists in the delivery of public service for the people of Torridge. A larger number of ‘eyes on the ground’ able to deal with this thoughtless behaviour will assist in the reduction of the problem and is only one of the many examples of where TDC and Police staff are working together.”

The Appledore Singers - A New Season

I

t’s the beginning of autumn and the Appledore Singers are starting their new season, so here’s an invitation to all ladies who enjoy singing: why not come along to one of our Monday night rehearsals (7.15-9pm at Appledore Baptist Church) and experience singing with us? We welcome new members and have a variety of musical arrangements on offer, from gospel and show-stoppers to Top Ten hits.

For more information contact our Musical Director, Pam Beechey on 01237 420652 or see our website: theappledoresingers.co.uk ‘Seek a Smile thro’ Song’

First Thursday Writers’ Group

Thank You From Little Torrington Village Fete & Dog Show

T

he weather was certainly kinder to us than last year and there was a good turnout of villagers, neighbours, friends and visitors.

The addition of the Dog Show proved popular, many thanks to Trophy Pet Foods (Les & Kay) & Torridge Vet Group for their sponsorship. Thanks also to our judges who did a great job.

We maintained our policy of ‘shop local’ and all of the BBQ supplies came from shops in Great Torrington. It all went down a treat, as did the barrel of real ale and the local Winkleigh cider!

The WI cake stall looked fantastic and provided the opportunity to buy gorgeous homemade cakes and treats.

Artisan, crafts people and other organisations were well represented with their own stalls and gave everyone things to look at, buy and do.

The Friends of St Giles were as helpful as ever, and the Fete could not have taken part without them and all the other helpers; setting up and clearing down (especially the marquee), stewarding the car park, serving teas, selling raffle and tombola tickets, running the Frisbee and skittles competitions, manning the BBQ and Bar, entertaining us with their singing and providing cakes and bakes.

A massive ‘thank you’ to everyone concerned. Everyone had a good time and the fete raised £753 towards the Church Restoration Fund.

O

ur September meeting saw eleven enthusiastic writers meeting up to discuss ‘intoxication’. The meeting started off on a happy note, celebrating the fact that one of our members had just got a contract to have three books published, and another had a book available on Amazon. We then settled down to listen to the contributions for this month’s topic.

Several poems were offered, including one on having writer’s block - something we all know about I’m sure, and a very evocative description of a summer’s day stroll with all its sights and sounds. One member had bravely attempted her first ever poem; a very amusing tale of a drunken woman and a frisky cabbie! ‘To be or not to be’ was a poem musing on whether you need to drink to excess when you can enjoy an evening on the coast, enjoying an intoxicating sunset. A very clever take on W.H.Auden’s ‘Stop All The Clocks’ impressed us all, with its ode to giving up drinking.

We heard an extract from a play about a promising young man’s life going out of control because of drink; memories of a fundraising event where two teenage fundraisers got a little tipsy without anyone noticing, and a descriptive piece about a small girl being traumatised by having to take part in a death vigil for a nun at her school.

The interesting mix of sad, happy, funny, and serious pieces gave us all food for thought and topics for conversation. We also discussed ways we could help one another with our writing skills, and left feeling enthused about our various writing projects.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 1st October at Torrington Conservative Club at 7.30pm, when the subject will be ‘refuge/refugee’. For further information please view our website torringtonwriters.co.uk.

Nikki Whiting

St Mary Magdalen Church Taddiport News

S

t Mary Magdalen Church Taddiport recently held a twoday flower festival which was an outstanding success.

The church was full with flowers of every colour, size and shape, exuding an odour that people would pay a fortune for, and wonderful refreshments were also provided. A profit of £830 was made, thanks to all who made the festival an outstanding success Our next event is the Harvest Festival on the October 11th with a 9am service and 12th at 6-30 service all welcome We at Taddiport look forward to welcoming Fr Peter Bevan as the new incumbent of Torrington Derek Skinner

15

Diary

A Listing of Community, Social and Fundraising Events in the Torrington and Surrounding District Areas.

To place an entry in the diary, please either email torrington.crier@gmail.com, call 01805 603152, or write your entry in the diary on the Library counter.

October 2015

16

Thursday 12.30 - 3.30pm @ The Bickford Centre South Street Torrington £2 per session inc refreshments, call and see us for a chat or call Jeanne Singleton 01805 622650 Merton Meal & Market in The Clinton Hall, Merton, every Thursday from 10am2pm. Local produce, food and gifts and a community café. Come and join us! www. mertonmealandmarket.weebly.com Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 8-11, 7-8.30pm ladies boxfit Tarka Valley Railway. Volunteers meet every Thursday from 9am till about 3pm at Torrington Station (the Puffing Billy), unless weather is appalling. Variety of tasks. All welcome. 07881 905 260.

10am–4pm Food Bank 10am-12pm every Sat @ Castle Hill, (1st floor) Torrington Junior Golf Training every Sat 9-10am @ Libbaton Golf Club Coffee and Cake Morning with Meat Raffle, Weare Giffard Village Hall, 10am till noon Raffle tickets are available from Tracy: 01237 478043. Supporting Weare Giffard Village Hall refurbishment/rebuild.

Sunday 4th

Plough Films The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (12A) 3pm; Trainwreck (15) 7pm Catholic Church of the Holy Family – Thursday 1st Mass every Sun 9.15am Coffee & Cake at Abbeyfield, Glen Tor Friday 2nd St. Michael’s Church 9am Choir Villa Road, celebrating International Plough Film The Man From U.N.C.L.E. Practice,10am Sung Mass Ignatius Older Person’s Day. Donations to the (12A) 8pm Sunday Club in upper room British Heart Foundation.

Plough Exhibition Open Drawing Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Plough Workshop 6 Week Fabric Preview 7pm Mr David Ley 6.30pm Rev Ken Morgan Printing Course (until 12 Nov)10am – Plough Music The New Jersey Boys The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter 12:30pm “Oh What A Night” at Devon Hall, Day Saints meet @ Bideford College Plough Film Dartmoor Killing (15) 8pm Bideford 7:30pm Abbotsham Rd, Bideford Sunday Plough Music Kara Richardson – A Pannier Market every Fri 8am-5pm Sacrament service at 11.50am-1pm Gallery Gig 8:15pm ALLSORTS Children’s Club at Bluecoat ALLSORTS Sunday Brunch, first Bingo Burrington Parish Hall. Eyes down Primary School, Fridays, 6.30-8pm.

Sunday of each month @ Bluecoat 8pm School years 1-6. Phone Morag on Primary school, 10.30am. Contact Morag Tai Chi 12 -1pm and 1-2pm every 01805 625510 on 01805 625510 Thursday, Torrington Hospital. TorrAge ALLSORTS Plus Youth Club at Car Boot Sale Tesco Rose Lane.

Ageing Well 01805 622666 Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, Every Sunday 10am - 2pm cars £5 Community events at the Plough 8-9.15pm. School years 6 and upwards. vans £7. Sellers 9am. Contact Maureen every Thursday; Sapta Dance Phone Morag on 01805 625510 Beauchamp 07999 445 489 no need Company 11am - 12.30pm, Tai Chi with English Folk Dancing 8pm every Fri to book just turn up. Raising funds for Ian 2.15 - 3.15, @ Northam Village Hall with Bideford Diabetes UK which is Tesco’s charity of Pannier General Market every Thurs Ceilidh Club. Info John 01237 476632 the year.

8am–5pm Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Torrington Commons Car Boot St Michael’s Church 10.30am Said Club training 6.30-7.30pm juniors age Sellers 7:30am (£5 per vehicle), Mass in St James’ Chapel, 11-1pm 11+, 7.15-9pm seniors Buyers 8am, until 1pm. The Old Bowling coffee morning.

Green. Every Sunday.

Little Fishes Toddler Group at Baptist Saturday 3rd Church every Thurs term time 9.30am Langtree Parish Hall, celebratory tea Monday 5th -11.30am £1.50 per family. Jill 01805 with craft tables. All you can eat tea Community events at the Plough 624387 3-5pm £5.

To commemorate 100 years every Monday Yoga with Naomi 6.30 Short Mat Bowls 2-4pm every Thurs @ of WI. All welcome Sue 01805 601602 8pm; Folk Orchestra 7 - 9pm High Bickington Community Centre Plough Community Theatre 7.30 Wendy’s Fitness for Life classes at the Northam Community Hall social event/family disco. Hot food available 9.30pm Scout Hall Gas Lane 07787 607 322 Little Frogs sessions Mon – Fri 8.45amSlimming World Join us at TVSC every proceeds to Home Start Bideford.

Margaret 01237 476910 Elaine 01237 3.45pm term time, Gas Lane, Torrington, Thurs at 5.30 & 7.30pm Norah 07789 431426 contact - 07870 509 674 632166 Plough Workshop Printed Lampshade Short Mat Bowls 2-4pm every Mon @ Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm at Workshop (2 Days) 10am – 4pm High Bickington Community Centre Donnacroft 1st Torrington Rainbows at Torrington Toddler Group 9.30-11am every Thur @ Plough Workshop Junior Jazz 11am every Saturday Rugby Club every Monday term time High Bickington Community Centre Plough Music Edwina Hayes and 6.15-7.15pm Emma Keil emmakeil@ Writers Poets & Listeners 7.30pm support Keira Osment 8pm talktalk.net.

Conservative Club Pannier General Market every Saturday 1st Torrington Brownies at Torrington Torrington Craft Group, Every

For when it’s more than just the destination that matters….  Home

Collection  Luxury Coach Holidays  3 – 5 * Hotels  Half Board Accommodation  All admissions and Excursions included  UK & Overseas Coach Tours

Baptist Hall every Mon term time 6pm7.30pm Leanne Wade 01271 377094, 07729 065 556 1st Torrington Scout Group at Scout Hall every Mon term time 7.30-9pm Peter 01409 281246 Torrington Silver Band practice Mon & Weds 8-9.30pm @ Howe Concert Hall Nick Megson 01805 622150 Cash Bingo TVSC 7.30pm every Mon Torridge Gingerbread Group, every Monday, 10-12 noon, Bluecoat Centre, Beach Room (usually) email: torridgegingerbreadgroup@ outlook.com or find us on Facebook.

Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training, above TVSC, 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 11+ 7.15-9pm seniors.

U.S. Social Group. Get out and meet new friends. We meet every Monday at 8pm @ the Panniers in Barnstaple (Weatherspoons). The age range is 40 plus. Varied interests including skittles, dancing, meals out etc. Mixed social group for people on their own.

Running club every Monday at 6pm (except Bank Holidays) at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym.

Tuesday 6th

Plough Theatre Angel Exit Theatre Co. “The Ballad of Martha Brown” 8pm Community events at the Plough every Tuesday; Yoga 2.30 - 4pm with Eve, Adults Ballet 6.30 - 7.30pm with Carol Plough Capella 7.30 - 9pm with Alison Market in the Pannier Market 9am-4pm new stall holders reqd. looking for crafts, foods, books jewellery, clothes, Kate 07596 742 909.

Hobbies Arts & Crafts Group Langtree Parish Hall every Tues 10.30-12.30pm £1.50 inc Tea & coffee Sylvie 01805 601485 Food Bank 10am-12pm every Tues @ Baptist Church 1st Torrington Guides at Torrington Rugby Club every Tues 7-8.30pm Linda Masterson 01805 623212 1st Torrington Beavers and Cubs at Scout Hut, Gas Lane Tuesdays during term time 5.30pm - 7pm, Fran Ashton 01409 281246.

Youth Club for 11+ 5-7pm @High Bickington Community Centre Badminton Club every Tues 7-8pm Juniors, Adults 8-9pm @ High Bickington

For a brochure please call 01805 603706 www.swantours.co.uk Grange Lane, Merton, Okehampton,EX20 3ED

Community Centre 01769 561387 Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training 6.30-7.30pm juniors age 8-11, 7-8.30pm ladies boxfit

Wednesday 7th

Latin for Beginners first session. The Plough. 7-8pm. Lauren 01805 624250 Plough Film 13 Minutes (15) 8pm Ancestry Helpdesk Northam Library 10.30-12.30– a member of the Devon History Society will be joining us to answer your family history research queries. To book: 01237 475111 Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Wed of the month 10.30am-12.30pm @ Phase 1 Common Room, Ethelwynne Brown Close, East the Water Bideford 3rd Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall, every Wed term time 6.308pm Shirley Lee 01805 625965 Free English Course for Adults every Weds 6-8pm @ The Fire Station. Learn the basics or aim towards L2(GCSE=) qualification. Rosemary Dymond 01237 472462 Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm at Donnacroft Langtree Reunites Netball Club High 5 training (sch yrs 3-6) 6-7pm, Junior training (sch yrs 7-9) every Weds 7-8pm evening (Juniors 7-8pm and Seniors 8-9.30pm) @ Torrington sports hall.

Visit www.langtreereunites. hitsnetball.co.uk Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training 6.308pm carded boxers only Running club every Wednesday at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym

Thursday 8th

Plough Films The Gift 5:30pm; The Wolfpack (15) 8pm Plough Poetry Open Mouth Poetry Night 8pm Open mouth music and poetry 8pm on the 2nd Thursday of each month St Michael’s Church 10.30am Said Mass in St James’ Chapel, 11-1pm coffee morning.

DEADLINE FOR NOVEMBER CRIER 12 NOON TODAY

Friday 9th

Plough Workshop Print Club 10am – 4pm Plough Film The Diary of a Teenage Girl (18) 8pm The Three Library Challenge Northam Library 2pm– join us for a walk along the coast path from either Bideford or Appledore Libraries to Northam Library, where Northam WI will reward your efforts with afternoon tea! £2.50 per person. To book 01237 475111 or 01237 476075

Saturday 10th

Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4pm all welcome, Doug 01805 622648 Beryl 01805 624294 Plough Workshop Printed Lampshade Workshop 10am – 4pm Plough Workshop Indian Painting Workshop 11am – 4:30pm Plough Music Jo Harman and Friends 8pm

Sunday 11th

Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rev Ken Morgan Holy Communion, Plough Films The Gift (15) 3pm; The Diary of a Teenage Girl (18) 8pm St. Michael’s Church 9am Choir Practice,10am Sung Mass Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room

Monday 12th

Plough Music Folk Orchestra of North Devon 8pm Torrington and District History Society Elizabeth Medley Smith. Private Smith’s War: researching and writing his experiences.

Tuesday 13h

Plough Film Theeb (15) 8pm

Wednesday 14th

Torrington WI 7pm, Methodist Church Hall. Mill St, 86th birthday party with Eric Smith a local poet The Plough AGM 7pm Plough Dance Escape Dance Co. “Taste” 8pm Guided local history walk with Peter Christie starting at Northam Library at

17

Pre-school Spaces Available at • Parkham School Open all day from September

• Exciting new facility with large play areas • Fully equipped indoor and outdoor learning spaces • Highly qualified and friendly staff with a fully qualified teacher • Opening times: Mornings (9-12) Afternoons (12-3) Three year olds are entitled to 15 hours of FREE pre-school time Additional sessions: £9 Please call the Head teacher Gina Finch on 01237 451334 Visit: www.parkham.devon.sch.uk 2pm and returning for light refreshments.

To book: 01237 475111

Thursday 15th

Plough Workshop Painting Landscapes with Watercolour 10:30am – 3pm Plough Live by Satellite Benedict Cumberbatch is Hamlet 7pm St Michael’s Church 10.30am Said Mass in St James’ Chapel, 11-1pm coffee morning.

Friday 16th

Plough Workshop Willow Basket Making 10am – 5pm Plough Theatre “I Believe in Unicorns”

by Michael Morpurgo 1.15pm Plough Film Rikki & The Flash (12A) 8pm

Saturday 17th

Silver Band Concert 7pm at Howe Concert Hall, raffle, teas & coffees, £5, children free. Cathrine Simmons 01805 622409 Plough Workshop Feltmaking 10am – 4pm Plough Comedy Sean Hughes “Mumbo Jumbo” Comedy night 8pm Craft and Table Top Sale Chittlehampton Village Hall 10 til 12 Contact Val 01769 540093 to book a table. £5 pre booked, £6 on the day Proceeds to Chittlehampton Village Hall

Sunday 18th

Plough Films Miss Julie (12A) 3pm; Rikki & The Flash (12A) 7pm Plough Theatre Cate Vincent Torridge Ramblers afternoon walk. Ring 01409 253462 for details Torrington Baptist Church informal time for ‘Bacon Butties’ and a chat, from 10.30am. Every third Sunday. Morning worship with Messy Church for the children 10.30am St. Michael’s Church 9am Choir Practice,10am Sung Mass Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room 6.30pm Rev P J Jackson Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Mr Colin Rice, 6.30pm Rev S Hill with Exeter Male Voice Choir

Monday 19th

Plough Music Folk Orchestra of North Devon 8pm

Tuesday 20th

Plough Workshop Cold Process Soap

18

Making 10am – 2pm Plough Film Miss Julie (12A) 8pm ‘Hearing for You’ Social group for the hard of hearing. Every third Tues 2pm @ The Bickford Centre. Call 01271 373236

Wednesday 21st

Royal British Legion meeting, Conservative Club 7pm Plough Live by Satellite RSC Henry V 7pm ‘Have We Got News for You’ Northam Library 10-4pm – a selection of national and local newspapers will be available throughout the day for reading and discussion along with tea, coffee and biscuits. We are hoping this will inspire a regular newspaper discussion group.

Ancestry Helpdesk Northam Library 2-4pm. A member of the Devon History Society will be joining us to answer your family history research queries. To book: 01237 475111 Cribbage pairs comp, third Wed of the month, Torrington Arms 8pm

Thursday 22nd

Plough Talk The Great War in Perspective 8.15pm Plough Film 45 Years (15) 8pm St Michael’s Church 10.30am Said Mass in St James’ Chapel, 11-1pm coffee morning.

Probus Club meets at the Black Horse, High Street, Torrington, 10am. Every fourth Thursday.

Friday 23rd

Plough Film Draw on Sweet Night (12A) 8pm

Saturday 24th

Plough Comedy Jenny Eclair 8pm Plough Music Three Reelin – A Gallery Gig 8.15pm Torridge Ramblers day walk ring 01237 429080 for details

Sunday 25th

Plough Films 45 Years (15) 3pm; Draw on Sweet Night (12A) 7pm St. Michael’s Church 9am Choir Practice,10am Sung Mass Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room Baptist Church Holy Communion fourth Sunday Alverdiscott Methodist Chapel, EX31 4PT, 6.30pm, ‘Explore’ interactive Bible study, light refreshements, every last

Sunday in the month Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am & 6.30pm Rev Ken Morgan

Monday 26th

Plough Films Inside Out (U) 3pm; Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (12A) 7pm

Tuesday 27th

Plough Films Inside Out (U) 3pm; Aluna (tbc) 7pm Plough Music Debbie O’Shea – A Gallery Gig 8.15pm

Wednesday 28th

Plough Films Inside Out (U) 3pm; Hard to be a God (18) 7:30pm Plough Gallery Gig Simon Blake “Ghosts and Characters of Devon” 8.15pm

Thursday 29th

Plough Workshop Play-in-a-Day – The Hobbit Part 3 10am – 4pm Plough Films Inside Out (U) 3pm; Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (12A) 5:30pm; Everest (12A) 8pm Plough Music Wildwood Kin A Gallery Gig 8.15pm Bingo at St Giles Parish Hall. 7.30pm

Friday 30th

Plough Workshop Plough Play Story workshop for 3-5 yrs with Richard Wolfenden-Brown 11am-noon Plough Music Wille and the Bandits 8pm

Saturday 31st

Plough Music Judie Tzuke 8pm Jumble Sale 10am till 12pm at St.Margaret’s Church, Northam. Quality second-hand clothes for adults and children, bric-a-brac, books and homemade cakes. Entrance 20p.

Beginner’s IT Sessions at Torrington Library

I

f you’re over 50 and would like help getting started with emailing and using the internet, then book onto a session with our IT Volunteer on Friday mornings.

Try a couple of sessions to get you started, and then use the Library computers to build your confidence.

Call 01805 622107 to book a session.

SANE Supporting anyone affected by mental illness

M

iss Jessica here, back from my summer holidays. I hope everyone had a good time and enjoyed the sunshine – what little there was! Here at K9focus it has been a very busy summer with dogs arriving and preparing for our various shows. What a time we all had at Castle Hill House, Filleigh! Sadly the liquid sunshine came down early in the morning as we were setting up, however it did dry up at lunchtime and those brave enough to attend had a lovely afternoon. Our thanks have to go to so many people for making the day a great success; our supporters, volunteers and all the entertainers including the Bideford Pipers who looked magnificent on the lawns of Castle Hill House. It would, of course, be rude of us not to give special thanks to Lord and Lady Arran, who firstly allowed us to use their lovely grounds, but then gave special permission to use their beautiful gardens when the fields became flooded. It truly made it a very special day, and raised muchneeded funds for the rescue.

Usually we take a little break from fund raising in the winter, but having had to cancel two shows this year has hit our finances quite hard, and so we are now planning a fashion show on 5th December in Appledore using models from the Kalm Supported Living Students who run our charity shop. More details to follow but promises to be fun. Following on from our successful Purple Ball last year, we also have our fabulous Masquerade Ball coming up on 21st November, with an opportunity to win a weekend in Venice. Tickets are still available by contacting Lynne on 07971 461 806 or emailing lynne@k9focus.co.uk.

On to my new sister Minky. You will remember that she came into rescue suffering with renal problems and had to be put on a special diet. She is now living with me and is doing really well. Our recent ‘Dunk a Duck’ appeal raised a fantastic £365 which will cover her food for another 4 months and so thank you to everyone who entered.

Right off to play in the fields but will be back next month with lots more news of our dogs and upcoming events.

Woofs & Licks as always, Miss Jessica

Torrington WI

A

fter all the joys of summer, we are looking forward to the pleasures of autumn with the preserve-makers amongst us already picking blackberries from the hedgerows. Our Book Club and 1646 Coffee & Chat meetings continue regularly. Langtree WI has invited us to their tea party and table-top sale on 3rd October and there is a Fashion Show at South Brent. We are sending a team to Roborough for the first quiz of the season.

The Autumn Council Meeting this year takes place at Plymouth on 14th October, which is also the date of our monthly meeting. We shall then be celebrating our Institute’s 86th Birthday with tea and cake after listening to local poet Eric Smith reading some of his work.

Our meeting place is the Methodist Hall at the top of Mill Street. We are there at 7pm on the second Wednesday of most months. If you think you would like to know more about us, please ring our President, Daphne Metherell on 01805 622876.

S

ANE, the national mental health charity, provides emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental illness, including families, friends and carers. Our mental health services are completely confidential and our professional staff and trained volunteers strive to provide nonjudgemental emotional support.

This may be in the form of our helpline, available on 0874 767 8000 every evening from 6-11pm. As well as providing practical information to those struggling with their mental health, we have found that a lot of our service users appreciate us just simply being there for them.

Our Textcare service is also a way in which we have been able to help people feel less isolated, as it allows us to share a message of support and comfort with people directly to their personal mobile phone at any time they choose. This may be at a time when other services are not available; when it’s not possible to make a phone call or to get online; when the house is full of family, or the person is not in their own home. We have also found that many of our service users schedule texts from us at particularly difficult times, such as doctors’ appointments, CBT sessions, job interviews, etc.

Our online Support Forum, available 24 hours a day, is also a place where many seek support from their peers, as talking to others who may be experiencing similar thoughts and feelings can be a real comfort to those who may not have a support network at home. This service is part of our vision of the wider SANE community: a community where we can work together to address the complexities of mental ill-health including stigma, exclusion and isolation, as well as the daily challenges of living with mental illness.

Our website also provides a space for people to share their mental health blogs, art work and any other creative pieces with the SANE community.

Visit: www.sane.org.uk Call: 0874 767 8000 evenings from 6-11pm.

19

Fleur’s Gardening Forum October in the Garden

O

ctober is an excellent time for taking stock of your garden; whether to create or renovate a flowerbed, plant shrubs and trees or bulbs, or plan next year’s planting; the soil still being warm and moist enough to enable new plants to establish before the really cold weather sets in.

One task I have been doing recently is collecting seed from all sorts of plants growing in my garden, both annuals and perennials, including Aquilegia, Foxglove, hardy Geraniums, Hyssop, Salvias, Honesty, Sweet Rocket, and also digging up stray seedlings, taking cuttings and dividing existing plants. It’s good fun, can save you a lot of money and provides continuity, so that if the mother plant dies you have replacements for free!

Seed can still be harvested during October, if the weather hasn’t knocked everything for six. Harvest seeds during a dry spell of weather; if the seed is stored whilst still damp then rot can set in. To make sure the seed is dry, place in an open dish in a cool, light and airy spot and ensure you write a label for them. If the seed is ripe, you can sow straight away into trays and keep in a cool, frost free environment – do not over-water in winter.

The seed is unlikely to germinate until the following spring but during a mild winter, you may get some germination.

Otherwise, store the dried seed in small brown envelopes in a cool, dry place, out of direct light, clearly marked with variety and date collected.

You can also create a ‘nursery bed’ in

which to sow the seeds. Rake an area of earth to a very fine tilth, add a bit of potting compost or fine sand if necessary, but it must be weed free and as fine as you can muster. Sow the seed in rows (so you can tell them apart from weed seeds) and mark each row with a named marker. Cover with mesh or similar to prevent damage by animals and birds and leave undisturbed until next spring when, hopefully, you will have more plants for your garden.

Small seedlings can also be dug up and planted into a nursery bed to overwinter, or you can pot them up and keep them in a cold frame or mini-greenhouse. Most of the seedlings won’t need protection, although if they are from half-hardy plants, they will need the shelter of a cool greenhouse or windowsill.

Another way of increasing your stock is to dig up and divide existing perennials, especially those which are past their best.

By such division these plants can often be rejuvenated and serve you well for years.

October is a good month for undertaking this task.

Dig up the plant carefully with as much root as possible and divide using either a sharp spade or knife, or prise apart using two forks placed back-to-back. Discard anything that is damaged or diseased and tidy up the new plantlets. Replant or pot up ready to plant again in spring. You can replant in the same place but make sure you incorporate some fresh compost and a bit of fertiliser first.

Fleur

Torrington Library What went on…

T

he Record Breakers Summer Reading Challenge started with our part in an official country-wide Record Breaking attempt for the highest number of pledges to take part, and/or support, a Reading Campaign. Whilst 100,000 pledges were not achieved, 80,000 represented an enormous number of children and parents supporting this year’s reading challenge.

On a smaller scale, our own challenge here has been very enthusiastically received with over 200 children taking part, and at the time of going to print we have over 100 finishing before the cut-off date.

Supporting the challenge with record breaking themes, our young members enjoyed events from The Dogs’ Trust and a visit from the Exmoor Zoo Roadshow.

What’s on…

The Torrington Children’s Centre will be holding Bouncing Bees singing sessions for 0-5 year olds every Tuesday morning from 10-10.45 am (term time only).

New Scottish Country Dancing Class

T

hursdays at 7.30pm in Westleigh Village Hall. All welcome. No partner needed. Keep fit, make new friends. Ring Anthony on 01237 473801.

Clinton Hall, Merton Ideal for Weddings, Parties & Functions Up to 300 people - Full licensed bar

Tel: 01805 603 300 www.clintonhallmerton.co.uk 20

VICARAGE HQ the Salon

GARDEN NURSERY

R

pool) Hickfords S ooccuusseedd H nnootthheeLane, rraapp(near yy swimming Sool01805 luuttiioonn­­FF625489 HyyppSchool All your everyday Property motoring needsServices

C

A friendly welcome in a lovely ‘Walled Garden’ Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist A large selection ofourselves pre-owned and Basket needs  HomeLife Damp Surveys & we Remedial Works on offering quality home At Carers pride Clare Hooper Free esti 12 South Street mates & care services to people throughout the local community,  Woodworm & Rot Treatments cars & vans always in stock Common & Unusual Shrubs, Grasses, Perennials, Alpines, Climbers, Veg.frienincluding: dly advi Great Torrington your Bedding Family Hair aAll nd Wig Specialists ““We We care about your air” air” BSc Hons h DHP

& Bathroom & Fitting • Personal CareDesign Services • Preparation of Meals 01837 and Free Advice Kitchen Property Maintenance • NightGeoff Care • Home Help • Sitting Serv ices on: Contact Williams OPEN 10 – 4 MOST83254 DAYS , May Fair, Carnival Holidays  Extensions & Bank Call us today on: 404406 01805 623157 / 07971 Care Worker Regulated by

Devon Ex38 8HE

www.newhairathq.co.uk

ce HNC, NVQ and Institute of Wood Pre serving & Damp -Pro ofing qualified The Care Quality

 Landscaping Barry 01805 www.monkleighgarage.co.uk 622 604 & Decking Opportunities Tel: 01805 625 999

hooper_clare@yahoo.com

 Plastering/Renderingwww.homelifecarers.co.uk - Alterations Available

Commission

Contact Colin Hickford C.S.R.T—Tel 01805 623376 FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION Mob: 07976 936 465 Email: hickford208@aol.com Two students from Year 9 at Great and chip supper on Friday 17thSlave May ship Torrington Centre Torrington SchoolChildren’s have come runners-up Condensation rising from 2013 whilst raising awareness of spinal e have writing had a wonderful summerStrong here at the Children’s Centre; seeing so in a national competition: ebony diamonds cord and and supporting SIA’s ‘Copywrite’, many run bychildren the National Schools and injury their families enjoying the chance to get out in the Beaten to a pulp.

G r e a t Partnership. garden information and support services.

Harley and Carter andsome Reuben enjoy of the sunshine.

You can‘Slave hold a supper in your own Musgrave entered their poems Theweek men come and Our new timetable was launched in the first of September and has a number home, atinto work hold acontainers, larger supper Ship’ and ‘Don’t Make Promises’ theor ‘Floral display’ can include 1. Best floral display byTorrington a business Take up hanging of sessions in and around the Torrington area forpeople everyone to enjoy.baskets, Do take a look at at your community centre. competition when they were inlocal Year 8 window boxes, ornaments.

Plants need not be bedding We hear screams our Facebook Page ‘Torrington Children’s Centre’ for all the details, or popbut in to the SIA will provide a fundraising pack and this term have heard that they are Triodisplay to Launch can include fruit, vegetables, herbs, perennials, shrubs.

2. Wind Best floral bySchool a public house And they come down centre for a copy. containing hints tips, in recipes, runners up. Both boysArtificial are delighted, and flowers areoffer notand allowed!

All covered cuts We all need a helping Didwon youaknow the Children’s Centre Family Support?

New Season invitations and donation envelopes. have £50 Amazon voucher each.

Red blood drips. By 3. Best floral display by an individual (best garden)* hand sometimes for lots reasons.

If you think you would like to talk to someone he Marylebone Trio will perform The English department is of very proud inviting asking them Can * category 3seven mustoffriends be ableand to be viewed from the roadYou or Help the about financial support, budgeting, giving up smoking, moving house, accessing Bideford Music Club’s first concert of Harley and Reuben and thinks it is to donate an additional £5 you will They don’t say a word pavement, ie, front garden.

4. We Best floral display by a group, ie, scouts, school, Boxing Club Find a start month Jemma with Katie’s mini-(oboe), wonderful more parenting support, help eat £35, healthily, getting out more the newthis season.

Bausor that, once again, work done in but raise attoleast will also give and developing your Likewe they neighbourhood** saga.

New English lessons can win national own social and emotional well-being, we can enable you to access the Home? right kind of Helen James (clarinet) and Alexandra additional fundraising ideas to Buttoned up theiroflips. **‘Ayou group’ must consist of a minimum two people (of any competitions.

Torrington Police Am help, when you and your family need it.

Drop into the centre for information on lots Davidson (bassoon) will play pieces by raise even more.

From The(photograph Depths only)*** age).

5. Best back garden They’ve been in The Crier before, butnumbers Club faces homelessn Where are we going of practical issues, leaflets, telephone and helpful contacts to keep you and J.S.Bach, Schubert, Ibert, Telemann, The money raised will help the Nothing could be seen; my pupils the two poems:WeInjuries never ending trip?second time a year an yourare family safewinning and*** thriving. haveOn a this Centre mobile number which youincan Spinal Association Beethoven, C.P.E Bach, Maros, here out Mozart, like or big glassy balls.

Light category 5 also photographic must be aoffer photograph of your 6. stretched Best allotment vegetable garden**** for a permanent home support to individuals who become contact us on, 07889own 604 652. up aheadand seemed to be further, further, Kovács de Haan. garden, please ensure your name and address is on No-one knows sessions. further.

A wind flushed down the corridor. paralysed and their are families, from the you all soon.

Thisfloral is a classical woodwind trio formed back of photo (2 photos allowed) 7. Best display outside a public building Look forward to seeing Doesoccurs, anyone care?

Since the club was fo Don’t make promises I in was whipped like a tiny etc.) boat on a at moment a spinal injury for The Team atand Torrington Children’s Centre.

2003 by about postgraduate students (fire station, council offices, Human faeces everywhere the Globe Alone in my room, nothing but me. rough, choppy sea.

A screaming the rest of their lives.

Kayleigh Stringer, Service Co-ordinator the Royal Academy of Music and since ****category 6 can be a public allotment or a private garden Hotel when I heard the door from downstairs. pounded at my eardrums, wanting to January, they have been For contain more information or request a triodisplay has been regularly and can vegetables and fruit. cannot a 8. then Bestthe floral by a working young person (under 16) Do the men live Itlike this?inbeTorrington I heard my name being called, breakthrough. Unwanted thoughts tiptoed Town Hall a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright commercial enterprise but can be a group or individual together, touring the UK and beyond “Someone’s Calling All Artists! on the phoneon for you!” cautiously into my head and bounced measure, but have to le 0845 0714350 or email effort. ItSouth mustWest be your own allotment/garden, or group 9. around Best floral display small garden concerts giving recitals, running education hildren’s Hospice (CHSW) is Shh! encouraging artists, Quick! thcelebrities and my brain.

April.

30 fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk or /garden of which you ancreate activeaparticipant. (less than 20ft xand 20ft providing approx.), balcony or courtyard. and workshops music for Here theyare come tothe unleash their creative talents and piece of artwork for I picked upsupporters the phone,allotment voice said…

Something’s coming.

Club coach Heathcliffe visit www.siafishandchips.co.uk.

No more thinking. weddings and other events. there’s no th“Hello Son, a how secret auction to be held later in the year. areonline you doing?”

It’s coming to get me......and that club has never The closing date for ALL categories is: an 30 ItJune Please cut off your entry details andlandscape hand in to artist the the Many appreciate hearing was voice I haven’t heard in years.

Witha2013 original pieces already secured from celebrated Alan roots, Cotton,having t way out. audiences set down 1610 Torrington Triathlon Theysure take you aat man addresses supplied.

Make keep a notetoofbe which wasthe a voice I usedOscar to know.

An echo replaced the echo that ensemble that is athe bit air, different from their Itand four times winners, Aardman Animations, there’s going some great since different venues And a woman Completed forms may be left at following categories youishave entered! only could be beating ofpiano mythe panicked Torrington Pool usual diet ofthe strings and and enjoy addresses: interest in the auction and CHSW hoping to secure as many pieces as possible to last year.

Wonder what will happen.

Whiskers Petlively Shop, Vicarage Nursery Home I make said, “I’m fine,more how’sofyou?” heart. the trio’s presentation style. or Ferry’s it even aSunday lottery. 23rd June 2013 He said: “Despite If you have any queries, please contact: Hardware The voice said slowly, “I’m fine, thanks The End. The trio is also enthusiastic and Taking the theme of ‘Raise a Smile’, Art for Precious Lives is a fundraising initiative Torrington Terror: scenic, rural bike numbers of vacant pro Can see black bodies for asking.”

The End. Cherry Hammon, Secretary, Torrington in Bloom passionate about encouraging the thnext whereby pieces of art will be sold in a secret online auction to help raise funds forchallen and run courses.

Novice friendly, but town, the biggest far as my eyes can see.

The End. Judging will take place on Tuesday 6 August 2013.

Association, on 01805As 625788. generation and has a wide range of CHSW, to safeguard its vital services for life-limited children and their families into the will challenge you! is finding a new home. T Then the voice said very very slowly… ...whispered into my ears. I felt around, education for all levels; they will be “Ifuture.

Man at my foot, whack! members, boxers and th Distances will be coming in next week…” touching thework ice cold stone walls, fingers Cut sensation giving a workshop tome. oneSomeone of Bideford’s can submit artwork, and Bike the appeal of this fun auction including is trying toFunction guess Fitn Swim 400m, 32km, Run 4.5km. outstretched in front or 2013Anyone I/we wish to enter the of Torrington in Bloom Competition: Name/Group: …………………………….…………….

My foot primary schools the morning after the Not sure about doing a leaking. triathlon on areCavaliers, have which items are the work of a renowned artist, and which ones the scribbles of a worked Six weeks past, since I heard the voice. something entwined their fingers in mine. drips my eye.make the club a succe your one own?

Whyhospice notWater enter as from a relay concert. was taking over my body; I Then I saidsupporter to myself…

Something celebrity, or even of our children!

Category: …………………...Address: ………………………………………………………………………………………… make promises can’t The keep.” team? perfect introduction to the up way to 30tomembe wasn’t who I was Thesure concert will anymore. take place at The “Never Emma Perry, Headyou of Community Fundraising said: ‘This is an attracts innovative Want mother. Want father.

Harley Carter, Katie Huxtable, of Triathlon. time, training three Methodist Church Hall, High Street, help support your local sport children’s hospice. We hoping to get as many varied pieces of times Man and dangeroushave more than half a ………………………………………………………Post Code:…………..Contact telephone number: …………………….

Year 9 talented 8 For more information or to whip book Bideford on Wednesday 7th Year October art as possible, and we don’t mind how you are!” your place – visit in www.1610.org.uk. medical cards ready at 7.30pm. Single tickets are £13 or a If you would like to get involved Art for Precious Lives, simplywith email art@chsw.

Torrington In Bloom 2013 Competition Entry Form

W

CATEGORIES:

GUIDELINES/RULES

T

C

season’s membership for four or six org.uk and an art pack will be sent out to you. Or for more information visit www.chsw. concerts will be available at the door. org.uk/artauction

H

Pure PILATES We clean your oven

so..you don’t have to.

Dip FTST BCPA

01271 376263

e: purepilates@aol.com

www.devonpilates.co.uk

Louise & Paul Banfield

To book your clean contact Gary today: quality but affordable Tel.Providing 01237 477636 Mob. 07983298813 accountancy and taxation services.

Web. ovenwizards.com www.pgdaccountants.com Tel: 01271 268082 Mob: 07810 448 618

McTimoney Chiropractic John Francis BSc. (Chiro.) M.M.C.A.

INSTALLATIONS - MAINTENANCE - REPAIRS For gentle and effective treatment of 07816 many conditions including: TEL: 01805 624558 MOB: 600677 * Back neck and shoulder pains *

PROP: ROBERT * Pain, discomfort andTAYLOR stiffness in joints*

* Muscular aches * GAS SAFE: 202034 10 Fore Street, Torrington

ADVANCED QUALIFIED Reflexology 01805 628271 We look forward CRAFT Dip. Reflex. (B.C.M.A.) ! to seeingSue youCochrane

TORRINGTON

Www.aandjopticians.co.uk

19

Please phone 01805 622465

21 27

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB REAL ALE - DRAUGHT GUINNESS SKITTLES - DARTS - POOL - SNOOKER S CASH BINGO MONDAY NIGHTS At HomeLife Carers we pride ourselves on offering quality home care services to people throughout the local community, including: LARGE FUNCTION ROOM K • Personal Care Services • Preparation of Meals IDEAL FOR PARTIES/WEDDINGS AVAILABLE FOR HIRE • Night Care • Home Help DAYTIME • Sitting Serv ices

E

Slimming World

Y

Call us today on: Care Worker Regulated by VARIOUS ENTERTAINMENT EVENINGS N The Care Quality Opportunities Tel:BOARD 01805 625 999DETAILS WATCH FOR Available www.homelifecarers.co.uk Commission CALL SHARON ON 01805 622543 EVENINGS

Property Management

Property Management Torrington Torridge Vale Social Club Dedicated to Property Management and Residential Lettings 5.30pm & 7.30pm The Personal Approach Tel: Bev 01805 624955

S P

THURSDAY Tattersalls

ith the ub wa624059 cl01805 b i g he rt

th e

0844 897 8000 www.slimmingworld.com

Est 1991

www.tattersalls.co.uk

9

soft toys, curtains and bedding (not their experiences to understand about their natural selfwas in 21,share TBC). with Players w And Der time Thurs 9.30-11.30am, £1.50 per Is Your Winter? duvets or pillows). family.

You can use 01805 any 623214 sustainable like instead PV relation toChimney the natural Ready world is aFor really Marks of We’ve been together all thesetechnologies years, Wendy ith summer drawing a close, the evenings get noticeably bin bag to donate your items. Conley dietimportant panels, burningtostoves, internal aspect of child development. beetle design, an Andtowe have and a grown upwood son. starting Rosemary & exercise cooler, you might be greater tempted toand lightexternal a fire rather than put the central Bags2School will be collecting from wall insulation, secondary Children develop e 10am-5pm @ Little include Fairtrade Class, Bluecoat Early Years Centre will heating on.

Are you sure your chimney is clean and ready to light?

Great Torrington School on Thursday glazing and more.

Although many knowledge and understanding of the ory Hall,Volunteers hot snacks The next Grou We’d like to have a special day 6.30-7.45pm every Thurs Wendy Required stPrevention Manager explains: Marc around House, them; Community the 8th Nove bring your 16th May at 9am. Please people can be put off by “Now the words world ranging from 5 622304 November.

Tuesday On Safety the 21 01237 424787 cooler people will begin to fires Plough and their for Care car bags to the school park at the rearTVSCgrowing renewable and open sustainable, thisArts C seeds have and arrived, watching them zaar 2pm @Victim Chulmleigh A day that’s special, juststart likeusing him, Slimming World everyevenings Thurs chimneys again.

In order to keep you and your family safe from fire, you need of book the sports hall and help Sara-Jane weekend of open homes is set to lift turning into flowers, fruit and avilion,Do to table Which he will long remember. along, or for m you want to support of Bev Roberts 01805 5.30victims & 7.30pm to take necessary steps, such as ensuring yourconcern. chimney is swept regularly andon I 01805 raise money towards624955 her trip. We will that vegetables to understanding why 0723 crime?

Emma do a collection service for anyone who book alarm a visitintotheir seehome.” one of these worms and are important would urge all bees householders to have ainworking smoke Being such a quietTo man, Rugby Training at Donnacroft every Do you have or bags to is unable to any bringknowledge their bag7pm, or households go relaxing to ourambience. website Open fires not only warmHe up a home, want but also create a unique doesn’t a fuss, Thurs clubhouse nature. open 8pm ethodistbackground Church in fraud or the impact of the school car park by phoning 01805 www.bidefordsustain.org/seeinggreen Through hands on interaction, But we really ought to celebrate, With the numbers of people using open fires growing, the Fire Kills campaign has Writers, Poets and Listeners 7.30pm Martin Goord, 7pmcrime?

624787.

Please phone to the or call Jolene on 01237 474 123. children develop great of the financial Cossense he means World to us. provided will some top tipsa for safer chimneys. @ theprior Plough collection date. empathy natural and will * Alwayswith usethe a fire guardworld to protect against flying sparks from hot embers Have you got the necessary skills to e 10am-5pm @ Little I would appreciate Fri your2 help to raise learn to truly appreciate and respect Love you Aikido * Make sure embers are properly putDer out before youBlack go to Belt bed for GTS Student support victims to cope and recover ory Hall,funds, hot snacks for me to be Pannier able to go on this Market the very beautiful we clean call home, Bric-a-Brac every Fri place Ros & Hamilton Great Torrington School student Ollie * Keep chimneys and flues and well maintained from the of crime? s 01805 622304 ‘once in effects a life time’ World Challenge Torrington.

10am-4pm Stainesswept? has become the first junior How often should you have your chimney/flue We have two opportunities coming up: O' Connoradventure.

- Bluja tour+ ...

The sessions began on Thursday Allsorts Childrens’ Club, Bluecoat member of Torrington Aikido Smokeless coals - at least once a year Fairtrade Volunteers the Thank Victim you, Care heds) 7.30pm @ The to support 25th 1.30– 3pm.

Infants School every FriApril 6.30-8pm, club‘Wine to obtain As part of a successful and his black belt.

Wood - up tointerested four timesin a year Unit based in ExeterSara-Jane Vanstone If you are signing up to School years 1-6 Morag 01805 625510 Fund R OllieFairtrade recently completed his Wisdom’ evening, the Bituminous coal twice a year Volunteers to support victimsPlus of Fraud become Club, part of Grow ‘Little Buds’ Allsorts Young Persons’ In aikido grading on Saturday Group asked for suggestions Oil once a year BluecoatSteering throughout DevonBuds’ andBluecoat CornwallSchool every please th contact Children’s Fri – 8-9pm years Grow – ‘Little The March and is now the 16 for furt her Fairtrade r by Torrington Girl like to apply/receive further Gas - once a year IfGrowing you would Centre on 01805 625830.

Morag 01805 625510 proud owner of 1st Shodan black belt. plants 6-9 and promotions Torrington.

Chemot @ The Pannier Market adds: “Latest statistics show that there werein 6,000 chimney fires in England information, please read through Fair the role Christmas 5-7pm @Marc Torrington Ollie started Aikido in 2006 and trains New discovering nature is a One idea was reducedstalls, tombola & loads in 2013/14, but -most chimney fires are preventable. All chimneys and flue-ways profiles andway provide us with School the following Junior stalls £5 Seeing 01805 623240 Green three times tea a week in both wonderful to spend price Fairtrade and Therethewill be me should be cleaned and checked to ensure they’re free from debris and in full working information: Barnstaple and Torrington club. time with your children, coffee for clubs and staffStone Village H How Can You Make Sat 3 order before your central heating goes on. A blocked or defective chimney can Name contact details.Explain/highlight as they& marvel in the rooms.

This is something November 10am Pannier General Market every Satchimney Your Home Energyfires Efficient? cause both and carbon monoxide poisonings so it’s very important to any im' (12A) 8pmrelevant @of Thethe experience/background miracle natural we are keen to do, especially as one of for the new chem Getting Older?

10am–4pmrole that employ Many apeople are worried about their Sweep.” professional qualified related specific world. to In the Grow ‘Little volunteer Buds’ we will be the Chimney Fairtrade Finding Town goals is To to Hear?Good quality It Harder Christmas Fair stalls, fuel coffees, lunches worried about how they can call free on: now 0800 0502999. For any To bills, request free Home Safety advice you are interested in (if applying both growing many different edible for plants encourage clubs, societies, community books, bric-a-bra 10am-2pm St Michaelsafford Church Come along and join the Hearing to heat their homes during the other fire safety advice, contact the Somerset Fireto & Rescue on: roles make that garden clear). over This may (and please flowers!) in our the groups Devon and &staff-rooms use helpline home-made Loss Support Group in Torrington light winter.

BidefordorSustainability Group is (U) 8pm @ The professional, Plough 01392 872288 visit our website www.dsfire.gov.uk. seasons and exploring how use include voluntary Fairtrade refreshments. available.

Sun 4 toand/or enjoy and a cuppa and friendly be company. helping you information find the answers to this For further on Chimney Fire Safety download them in healthy recipes.

ComeChurch along toof the personal experience ofCatholic supporting people So, our special offer is ato£5 packageour leaflet visit Holy Family Informal monthly ‘get together’ at the most important question.

Over the our website, also visit Fire Kills www.gov.uk/firekills Bluecoat Children’s to Please enjoy containing 100 tea bags, a jar of with empathy and understanding.

–Centre Mass every Sun 9.15am Par For Th Bickford Centre on the third Tuesday weekend 18th and 19th May, many some healthy outside time, and help coffee, 100 sugar sticks and a packet use no more than 500Baptist words. Church 10.30am Creative around Bideford householders and its every month at 2pm.

Book create taste Church your own edible of biscuits. The normal cost of these st th pnn.police.uk (We areand committed to ensuring people provided May, 18 surroundings are opening up their Next quarter dates:21 My new sportin garden. items would over £8, th so this is a Any questions Due Mass totothe of thecan work being beJune, St. Michael’s Sung & nature with a disability can undertake Church our homes July 2013 16 show you what be done world of Devon g ral Market every roles.

Thurs Children will be able to play, explore, significant saving.

Pleaseplease contact us Sermon every Sun 10am carried out, we can only accept applicants orLyn queries, volunteer Reasonable adjustments - See Hear Centre to reduce your energy consumption Over which was discover and learn about the beauty of to take up this contact special offer.Sarah Community Church aged over 18. can be made based Torrington on an individual’s Office: 01271 373 236 from the grid.

Village Cricket C Toddlerrequirements).

Group nature at as they interact with Infants the wild We will be holding a nFairtrade Bluecoat SchoolEOI every Sun returns to: Sue Hayman, Office C arlse - B r o w n e‘Beetle There are numerous householders th Mobile: 07831 515 809 Lords. tist Church every termand natural Supporting children November, Drive’ on 12 by 11am Karen 01805 622866 email 7pm sarah.(venue ofgenerously the Police giving and Crime Commissioner, Please note,world. final acceptance is subject seehearnd@livingoptions.org up their time to Endeavour House, Pynes Hill, Exeter EX2 carlsen-browne@devonandcornwall.pnn. to vetting clearance Full induction and training will be 5WH sue.hayman@devonandcornwall. police.uk or call 01392 225555.

W

011

opodist

y

MSSCh. MBChA.

he British Chiropody Association rofessions Council Also Home V Visits isits throughout North Devon T Tel: el: 01237-474244 22

RON SUSSEXTHURSDAY AND SONS LTD Slimming World PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS (Est 40+ yrs) Heavy Duty Gardening Torrington Oil, LPG and Natural Gas Heating, Domestic dwellings & caravans Torridge Vale Social Club

Compact Tractor & Loader

Landlords, Servicing & Commissioning 5.30pm & 7.30pm Flail/Topper Mowing

All Plumbing work—Calor Gas Stockists (delivery624955 available) Tel: Bev 01805 Rotavating, log sawing/splitting

trimming etc. ith theTel &hedge wchipping, ub Garden Fax 01805 623293 clWood overhaul and 8000 tidy 0844 897 ig heart jobsFREE bSmall/odd ESTIMATES done around the farm

th e Oftec Reg.

116 New Street (via Stoneman’s Lane), Torrington www.slimmingworld.com

Gas Safe No. 21765

Michael Harris, Petrockstowe 01837 811283

21 13

Easter Hall Park Stables Petrockstowe

Riding & Carriage Driving Lessons Beginners - to - Advanced Qualified staff - Fully licensed Indoor & Outdoor Arenas Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams

Phone 01837 810350

Could Your Cat be Suffering from Hyperthyroidism?

H

yperthyroidism is a common disease seen in old cats. It often goes untreated for a long time as owners can mistake the symptoms for ‘old age’. Symptoms can often be subtle and will be overlooked until they become more severe.

In the vast majority of cases, hyperthyroidism in cats is caused by a benign (noncancerous) change in one or both of the thyroid glands (situated in the neck). Due to this change the glands will become overactive and will not be working properly.

Thyroid hormones have an important role in controlling the body’s metabolic rate and in turn the general activity level of your cat. The overactive thyroid gland results in over stimulation of nearly all organ systems, which puts significant stresses on the cat’s body. It can cause increased heart rate, but also changes the muscular wall of the heart that can eventually cause heart failure if un-treated. As well as this, the high blood pressure can cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, heart and brain.

Cats with hyperthyroidism tend to burn up energy too rapidly and typically suffer weight loss despite having an increased appetite and food intake.

So what signs could possibly reflect hyperthyroidism? * Weight loss * Ravenous appetite * Rough and unkempt coat * Occasional vomiting and diarrhoea * Behavioural changes such as irritability and restlessness. * Increased water intake and more frequent urination * Heat intolerance- seeking cooler places to rest * Fast, often uncountable heart beat One or more of these signs could indicate that your cat is suffering from hyperthyroidism. Medication can help control the disease. Operating to remove the affected gland can cure the disease and most cats will make a full recovery.

Hatchmoor Vets

Torrington Craft Group Coffee and Cake Morning with Craft Bazaar

T

orrington Craft Group is holding a coffee and cake morning with a craft bazaar at Torrington Methodist Church from 10.30-12.30pm on Saturday 14th November.

Admission is free and there will be a raffle on the day. All proceeds are in aid of the Devon Air Ambulance.

The group meets every Thursday at the Bickford Centre, Torrington from 1-4pm, costs £2 per session and includes refreshments as well as good company. Thanks to generous grants from Great Torrington Commons Allotment Charity and Great Torrington Town Lands Charity, they have purchased two brand new sewing machines together with other sewing requirements for use by the group. New members are always welcome and for more details should call Jeanne Singleton on 01805 622650.

Please support North Devon Hospice Big Breakfast 2015!

B

ig Breakfasts have been popping up all over North Devon and Cornwall borders, giving you the chance to enjoy the most important meal of the day with family, friends, neighbours or colleagues, whilst also raising vital funds for your local hospice.

Please come along and support your local Big Breakfast at: Black Horse, Torrington Saturday 17th October 9am-12 noon Delicious Big Breakfast £5.95 donation.

Raffle draw.

Please pop in or phone 01805 622121 to book or everyone welcome on the day!

You can be sure of a warm welcome, so please support our generous Big Breakfast organisers if you can.

The money raised through Big Breakfast, which is generously sponsored

by Phillip Dennis Foodservice, will help North Devon Hospice care for local people who are suffering from the impact of cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. All hospice services are provided completely free of charge, but it costs £4million each year to care in this way.

This is only possible thanks to the ongoing support of the local people of North Devon, so by attending your local Big Breakfast event, you will be helping us support people in your own community.

For more information, please visit www. northdevonhospice.org.uk, or call Gerard Fawcitt on 01271 347224.

23

Some inspired poetry, a letter to really make us think and a tribute to a wonderful profession.

Enjoy!

In the Year 9 end of year examination, pupils are asked to: Write a description about a person who has made a strong impression on you.

Here’s one answer.

Guardians of the Next Generation

My teachers have made a strong Teachers are pressured, they plan our impression on me because they help me lessons every day, they spend hours to realise my full potential and show how writing out a way to educate us when hard I can work. they could have been going out with their Because my teachers are encouraging, friends and having fun. That’s how much they care about our education. If we do Ben has been inspired by Seamus they make me feel that it is safe to talk to them about issues that make me sad. not listen to them, then we will fail in life.

Heaney’s poem ‘The Grauballe They are also Some young Man’ and the pictures that “Some young people do not care helpful and funny, people do not care inspired that poem, to write his about knowledge. Knowledge is the about knowledge. they push you to own. Absolutely stunning. key to a happy life. Why do people Knowledge is the become the best not care about what they will be that you can be. key to a happy life.

The Grauballe Man doing for the rest of their lives?”

Yes, granted Why do people not A body, planted into the I may complain care about what searing heat of the Sahara, about boring lessons or how impatient they will be doing for the rest of their a symbol of the death that is burnt they are sometimes, but that is because lives? Do they just expect that they will into the withering skeleton, immortalised sometimes I don’t understand what they learn everything by themselves? If they In stone. are trying to do: to push me to see how cannot be bothered to learn in class, His corpse, naturally fossilised forever in good I can become; the best that I can what makes them think that they will the ground. be! learn on their own?

Most of my teachers are kind, Overall, I think that teachers are the A fallen King, a twisted leader, understanding, careful and not most inspirational people on this planet. an unloved master, despairing dictator, embarrassed by things they have to talk They teach us - the next generation. If all together, a broken emperor. about. They are strong. Sometimes I most of us could pay attention then we feel sorry for them because they strive could do something great with our lives All different body parts, to teach those who do not want to like become a doctor and save millions crookedly crafted, like an unfinished learn or who want to mess around, but of lives, become a scientist and invent puzzle. eventually they come up with a solution flying cars, or we could be an artist and that benefits everyone. They are problem paint the next Mona Lisa. Or, we could He is one with the bed of peat that is solvers. become a teacher and help teach the now his home.

They are guardians to every one of next generation who could become Relaxed in a position that is impossible their students, good or bad, they protect something even greater. We could to be relaxed in, us and make sure we are safe. We achieve all these things if we listen to the Forever preserved. don’t treat them, or their classrooms, most inspirational people there are. Our Ben Cross, Year 8 with enough respect; I don’t understand teachers. how they put up with it and carry on like Anonymous, Year 9 normal. That is what impresses me.

Cedek Water Treatment Ltd. Central Heating & Plumbing Services Boiler Installation, Maintenance & Service Borehole Maintenance & Service Legionella Testing, Risk Assessment & Service

Free Quotations 01805 625395 Email: office@cedekwatertreatment.co.uk Web: www.cedekwatertreatment.co.uk

24

Mobile: Chris 07857 767 579 Dave 07429 546 983

listener and offers comfort to those

www.ngs.org.uk

Clinton Merton For when it’s more than just the destination thatHall, matters….  Home

Collection  Luxury Coach Holidays  3 – 5 * Hotels  Half Board Accommodation  All admissions and Excursions included  UK & Overseas Coach Tours

Oscar, Chloe and Emily wrote poems inspired by Ian McMillan and some pictures people.

Torrington Writers’ ofGroup Apologies received from Sue Davan Man From Battle for the April meeting.

Man from battle, Elizabeth’s War wounds in sensitive the head, poem ‘Where We Played’ was a vivid evocation of Mind of memories childhood.

All abandoned. Making fine use of assonance, alliteration and Standing in the the distance. onomatopoeia poem transported all Standing back to tall. the precious days of early Solid rock. girlishas a innocence and wonder.

Robert’ssandy.

‘The Games We Played’ did Clothes the same for the boys. Improvisation Home… sweet home. was to the fore in Robert’s poemYear and 8 Oscar Jarrett, both works explored the fact that little organised adult supervision was Is he still or here? required for children to enjoy play.

Face as blank as paper.

Warren’s of playing Lips as dry asinterpretation a summer’s day. was making music and by His eyes look sorry for what heusing did. the metaphor of the seasons in his Heart as still as stone.

‘Seasons of Life’ he used four tightly Body proud – like a survivor. constructed stanzas to comment Lived a life that no-one philosophically on the four seasons of Should ever live. life.

Graceful.

Stef’s short essay was redolent of Is he still an here? perhaps older youthful time. Writing Chloe Loates, Year–8 in her usual stylish manner sometimes in almost iambic Things can happen pentameter – Stef’s tale had a salutary Hair is grey and dull,in the denouement. if slightly sad sting Mouth slanted.

Doreen cannily invited us to Is he scared? remember the darker side of ‘Games’, especially at school.

The opportunities Body shaped like a tree trunk, for bullies to thrive were, we all Ears huge, recalled, legion.

Were teachers tainted Stretched. with a hint of masochism back then; Eyes wherea dark was mystery, health and safety when it Whole, was actually needed?

A body a soldier, Eric like changed the subject and gave Survived. us a beautifully crafted poem, ‘The Moon’.can Using clever and varied figures Things happen. of speech he let us share his exquisite Emily Marshall, Year 8

Up to 300 people - Full licensed bar

For a brochure please call 01805 603706 Tel: 01805 603 300 www.swantours.co.uk www.clintonhallmerton.co.uk Grange Lane, Merton, Okehampton,EX20 3ED

117 In 3Rs, Roles, Relationships and Responsibilities, Nell learned about worldwide poverty and wrote a letter to the General Secretary of Makes with he red.would pass them onbrings the story himyou myooze details, ecology ofalive.

The Com the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon spring into summer before setting seed vision.

With a strongDon’t yetMr steady rhythm word The onlyevents disadvantage t tosay myalong lost school friend. these will be and disappearing, although it is itawas broa the poem conveyedOr both the romance it comes time when One down Sunday afternoon I received ais theincluding The Tree Tra Dear Mr Ban Ki-moon, allow them Ragged to start a Robin business, whichtoclever a prefers and the majesty of our closest celestial toperennial.

Again and again. of the phone call, yes! It was my old schoolone the newmost Rolle Cana My name is Nell Gierke, a 12 year old will then help them to make more money grow in damp or marshy ground, inT.V sun has to neighbour.

Harder and harder.

Britishpopular friend, we had not spoken to eachseries always Wild F or light shade.

Jean’s ‘Bienvenue Encore!’ was an Reuben student from Great Torrington School, and could, eventually, have an impact on Musgrave, pushed aside in sched other for over 58 years, and I was so would like suggestion widespread, Ragged Robinbig popu whimsical, thankvillage you to the Although inaffectionate, the UK. I liveif in a small,choked quiet GDP, mortality rate because of other Year 9 infant with emotioncountry’s I could hardly activities that you w is becoming increasingly rare in the our twinning with Roscoff. like The Fam situated betweentradition two small towns.

I live and education speak, not just with hearing hisrate. voicethe time include, or Royal perhaps countryside, sothat it Iis definitely worth Bothmythe people and countryside of practising all in all Spaced has no ma Year 11 have been with Mum, Dad, my two brothers Another issue feel strongly about but knowing what My Father God had interest which could pull theIn series down. it gender in your garden.

Sow seed in Brittany were celebrated.

Another transactional writing skills, by writing and my Grandma.

I consider myself toconcerts isgrowing ensuring equality. done.

The were what I call your some own evening If you haven’t seen the late TV summer/early autumn (you can poem honoured memories thatfavourite reviews aboutatheir shows, be very which fortunate; I have aGod’s family, roof countries your gender gives you a status. stepping stones, I haverecommend photography, sketchin it. Spaced is Br games and are two ofloads them. collect existingSaudi plants) and do not over myfade. head, an education and films. the Here example a from country Arabia, experienced theseFor several times overatlike also be with contac itswillbest, along sho prick out when large enough to handle.

Iain wrote about the dangers of opportunity to voice my feelings. women’s stay in theExtras. home,In my o the last few years,it is Hethe puts things job intoto schools.

Office and Theafter seed is quite and fine,have so cover only overplaying overacting your Spaced I am takingor this opportunity to part. voice look limited place that never happen if the left family to us. IPegg’s Please contact: best role is Tim very lightly or not at all.

They don’t The group reflected that the selected Spaced is some of the earliest work of my opinions as I have a growing rights.

Whereas, raised info@torrington to and fresh. had no concern idea where my friend was,boys he areEmail: require a lot of heat Funny, so caninventive, over-winter topic had been stimulating and that Simon the Pegg actor comedian best known now lives in Basingstoke.

Phone: gender.

01805 624176 for extreme poverty in other countries believe thatSometime they are the superior Core in ofa thecold topic for the nextformeeting his mainon rolethe in Shaun Dead. frame or unheated duringcrisis. this year In weorder are for planning to Visit: oura website and feel that it is a very current gender equality to be right, or Fa Spaced is a clever inventive series with greenhouse, or you can just scatter second of May would be meet the seashore. how I amI feel going to from handle that age boys should It upsets me that there is suchstories aup, huge that a young whacky involvingseed smart parodies Iain about and scratch it roughly into I don’t know, one thing I do know iswomen difference between the developed be raised to respect more.

New Programme at Fifa 11 review on big Sci-Fi movies, especially the of Star the surface the soil.

I have an However, incredible inGod who ofFifa and developing world.Wars In athat developing the case religion, it could 11 is the latest footb trilogy.

Children’s Centre!

Fleur British Native Wild Flowers loves me.

Delight yourself inmates the Lordfor anypeople football fanatic.

Thisthega country families struggle to provide challenging to accept Spaced is even the storybe ofmore two flat We are putting and will you desires of yourbeen To meal Growa In Garden released

by EA Spo who meethesome interesting friends. one day,Your whereas families in agive thethe concept ofThe changing their tradition. our new programme fo Pause ForbutThought heart. buyerslike will talk not be disappoint Lychnis flos-cuculi spoof is not just for to developed country can easily provide 3 comedic My effect, last issue that I would you can pick up a Vernon Andrew This game brings ma My Second BirthdayHundreds Some meals Latin forhelp names story forward; this makes wholesome theirmove familythe every about is deforestation. of centre, ortrees download playing for your own team fs the storyline feel very epic and altogether May is a very special month in my describe plants more by st day. are being chopped down every day in . your ch from April 1 it’s just a shot away, makes the series much more funyear, and calendar being my second the when they Common The season government spend billions of News order to make way for roadsFor or buildings.

2013/2014 th howthe on your team and y gripping to watch. birthday as I call it.

On Saturday 19 flower and this one is no For many years we have been money on the military, yet only a quarter Trees are a vital part of our lives, they favourites together game.

The players have adw Spaced has a very unique style to it. exception, flos-cuculi May 1984 at 4pm I became a new organising an annual week of events to and of that money goes toDirected improving takeand in Carbon Dioxide give sessions such as M soKingdom they lookoff realistic by the Edgar Wright written creation born by intoWe the of God. to viewe meaning Cuckoo Flower. celebrate life on Oxygen.

The Common. lives of people living in poverty.

Surely, Without trees humans just is Pattern Changing, This game Simon Pegg and Jessica Hynes it has a It this was tonothing to do with me but allthe next However, I think most of have us now extended aable fortnight Bookstart Corner dif giving more money torealistic those who really wouldn’t be to survive.

Sure, trees series and is completely feel; this is very clever writing about Him, Jesus. know it as ‘Ragged Robin’ sobenefits that the more activities can beseries includedfrom Saturday morning visual effects paper, have beenFam vas need it would have multiple to help with everything, making considering crazy storyline the I was invited to Fifa go 11 to has a Christian and, yes, it does flower– from May toit cannot and surely continue to rain many brilliant ch If you are interested revolves around.

Parody and our quotethe economy of that country.

I feel that to heating houses but there has meeting led by Drthe Billy Graham at July when the cuckoo is for usually heard. two areplease made to in l sessions, call spotting plays a big part weeks. in enjoying theway otherplayers sometimes ignored, asconsecutive though be a different than killing Aston Gateour football stadium in Bristol.

I the sty The prettypoverty pink is flowers look as ifwill to This year start with Golf football players from series, however, because these are book. itsomeone isn’t as important as athepair latest fashion the thatbeen helpsinusasurvive.

There th thing football stadium has taken scissors June, with cashof their Competition 24had eyes which makes crucial toof the story on it makes it never much more We also have threei or been up to, should at least be more work dedicated so thought it would be fun, I had heard towhat them,celebrities hence thehave name. prizes and a chance to win ‘Theplay.play sessions, fun and enjoyable. includin thus causing notCommons’ see, or treat replanting trees.

I thought would like to to leave Billyfinish Graham itbest ok go. I of Fifa There arepeople also towhite and The feature Cup’.toof We on so the The forms series becomes really interesting forkilling twins, triplets th itcultivated as real issue.

More should be done to you with this question: isn’t trees remember singing wasown cho double forms which canofbe can Thursday’s play for your July when weekend 6/7 on the realisation of howcan attached to we the willthe 10-11.30 a promote charities.

This done via marquee simply later generations? wonderful, remember a word purchased, usually atcould specialist plant from Leeds United to characters are and howkilling you but findcan’t havebeayou small on The Old Our many outreac the media asFlowering people are becoming more Yours Billy Graham spoke. nurseries. stems rise Green up to to Manchester yourself agreeing with what Tim (Simon Bowling to house afaithfully, display, andMacclesfield continuing including reliant technology.

All poorer families Nellmany Gierke, Year are different At the made an appeal for9challeng 80cm,onbranching naturally, and theyis saying; Pegg’s character) thisclose really some practical examinations of hethe sessions at Winkleigh a need, a small of money people to come to the front if they wish floweris over a amount long period fromeach late

A J Installations

TV, DVD, Video and Digital Installations Got equipment you can’t use properly?

We can offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service With over 25 years experience in the North Devon Area Phone Alistair McMillan

01805 804626 or 07977 810 088 24

Ideal for Weddings, Parties & Functions

Total Property Services Property Maintenance Renovation & Extensions Patios & Decking

Roofing

TPS T

Pvc Fascias & Guttering Painting & Decorating Bathroom Specialists

Plumbing

01805 624382 01805 623223 "No job too big or too small" for property 'TLC' phone TPS

25

generously giving up their time to

R.PITTS

Then call your Local Friendly Builder

“BUILDING & RENOVATIONS”

.PITTS opodist R.PITTS

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

& RENOVATIONS”

R. Pitts he British Chiropody Association “BUILDING & RENOVATIONS”

k rofessions Council Tel:624665 01805 624665 Tel: 01805

Also Home Visits V isits throughout Mob: 07812 067199 Mob: 07812 067199 North Devon T Tel: el: 01237-474244

What is the Tarka Trail?

T

he Tarka Trail is a recreational route opened in May 1992 which describes a figure of eight, centred on Barnstaple, through the beautiful countryside of North Devon.

It extends for 180 miles (290 km) and different parts of the trail can be covered by rail (the Barnstaple to Eggesford section of the Tarka Line), on foot or by bicycle.

The part of the Tarka Trail that is nearest to Torrington follows the route of the old railway line, which opened in 1872 but fell to Beeching’s axe in 1965, although freight continued to be transported until 1982. About a mile out of town on the A386 towards Bideford is the old Torrington railway station which, since 1984, has been a pub, restaurant and café called the Puffing Billy. Nearby is Torrington Cycle Hire, and families can often be seen cycling along the trail at weekends and holidays. A group of railway enthusiasts are hoping to return a railway to Torrington.

Going in a southerly direction, you can walk or cycle via Watergate Bridge, East Yarde and Petrockstowe to Meeth Halt (11.4 miles/18.3 km). In the other northerly direction, the trail crosses over the River Torridge several times as it winds through the meadows and woods. It passes the village of Weare Giffard on the far side of the river, goes through an echoing tunnel and then crosses the river via an iron bridge and continues alongside the Torridge estuary to Bideford. (Torrington to Bideford is 5.3 miles/8.5 km).

Beyond Bideford is Instow, which

RON SUSSEX SONS LTD Easter HallAND Park Stables Building & Renovations R. PITTS

Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

For your one stop pet shop, A large stock of pet food, Toys, Cages, Bedding, wild bird products, Medical items etc....

Find us at 20 south street, Great Torrington 01805 622859

Petrockstowe

Friendly Builder

Riding Carriage Driving Lessons Oil, LPG and Natural Gas&Heating, Domestic dwellings & caravans Torridge Vale Social Club Beginners - &toCommissioning - Advanced Landlords, Servicing Roland Pitts 5.30pm & 7.30pm Qualified staff - Fully licensed

All Plumbing work—Calor Gas Bev Stockists (delivery624955 available) Tel: 01805

Indoor & Outdoor Arenas

club t 0844 897 8000 810350 b ig hearPhone FREE 01837 ESTIMATES

Building Renovations 116 New & Street Stoneman’s Lane), Torrington R. PITTS eTel (via th ith w Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams & Fax 01805 623293 th e Tel: 01805 624445 Mob: 07812 067199

Oftec Reg.

www.slimmingworld.com

overlooks the Taw and Torridge estuary, and Fremington, once an important port, and then the trail goes alongside the River Taw – at a distance – to Barnstaple.

The cycle track crosses the river and, on the other side, leads on to Braunton which marks the end of the stretch where it is possible to cycle. Beyond Braunton to Croyde, Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, Combe Martin, Lynton and Lynmouth the trail is for walking only, and is partly along the South West Coast Path. You can then follow an inland route back to Barnstaple.

From Torrington, in the southerly direction, it is possible to cycle as far as Meeth but, before Meeth, the trail continues, for walkers only, to Dolton, Iddesleigh, Hatherleigh, Jacobstowe to Okehampton and on to Belstone, Sticklepath and South Tawton on Dartmoor and then, via North Tawton and Bondleigh, to Eggesford where you can catch the train back to Barnstaple.

The Tarka Project was set up in 1989 with the aim of protecting and preserving the environment which led to the creation of the Tarka Trail. Its name was inspired

by Henry Williamson’s classic novel, ‘Tarka the Otter’ (1927) and takes the traveller through the contrasting landscapes of ‘Tarka Country’ described in the book: peaceful countryside, wooded river valleys, rugged moorland and dramatic coast. Tarka was born and died near Torrington so, in one sense, this is the beginning and end of the trail.

Moira Brewer An extract from ‘Torrington Uncovered’ Available at Jack & Molly’s, Crawfords, 1646 and Ferry’s.

Whiskers Pet Centre

26

Roland Pitts

New Buildings or Renovations?

New Buildings or Renovations?

Slimming THURSDAY Then call your Local Tel: 01805 624665 World Mob: 07812 067199 Then call your Local PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS (Est 40+ yrs) Friendly Builder Torrington

MSSCh. MBChA.

1 6

seehearnd@livingoptions.org

Gas Safe No. 21765

British Native Wild Flowers To Grow in Your Garden

21 13

Limonium vulgare

T

his is a hardy perennial that can be found growing in dense colonies on salt marshes around the country, sometimes colouring the higher parts of such marshland with a flush of bluishlavender during July and August, hence its common name of Sea Lavender.

However, it can and does make an attractive garden plant and is reasonably easy to grow from seed.

The flowers are small, forming dense one-sided, flat topped branched spikes approximately 20-40cm in height (8-16”), sometimes taller. They look quite delicate but are pretty tough. The leaves form a basal rosette and are broadly spear shaped/elliptical.

Seed can be sown in spring in good compost, the seeds are small and can be lightly covered with vermiculite.

Germination can be erratic. Prick out when large enough to handle and plant out in a sunny position where the soil is moisture retentive but not boggy or permanently waterlogged. Plant in groups, otherwise individual flowering spikes can be ‘lost’ amongst more vigorous foliage.

Obviously, Sea Lavender is ideal for a coastal garden, being salt tolerant and wind resistant, but it is well worth trying it further inland, perhaps at the base of a rockery.

If you enjoy flower arranging, Sea Lavender flower spikes can be cut and dried, in similar fashion to Statice, but make far more delicate sprays that look a bit like ‘lucky’ white heather.

Fleur

Aerial & Satellite

SKY FAULT REPAIRS. CALL ABOUT - BBC i Player and ITV Player Connections

SIGNAL SOLUTIONS HOME SERVICES

01805 804 640 or 07970-963-450 now.

HD FREESAT PVR,S

CCTV

“SKY DIG BOXES” Email: signalsolutions@tiscali.co.uk

SKY+ SKY HD. Magic eyes.. EXTRA SKY POINTS.

CSCS Registered - CRB Secure - City & Guilds - Public Liability.

3

seehearnd@livingoptions.org giving up their time to the C18 is scarce. suggest Torrington is very Documents well supported bygenerously further by organising a five to ten days for the vaccine to take the local community collection of good quality clean clothes, effect so it is important to get the flu jab and all the money bedding and curtains. My aim is to fill before flu is about. I’d urge everyone th r a i s e dTreatment h e l p s Services Cedek Water 100 bags by 5 December. eligible for the flu vaccine, particularly pWelcome r o v 01805 i d e628080 THURSDAY If you would like a bag to fill, Orders those in the clinical at risk groups, to Phone  PropertyCentral Maintenance Pvc Fascias & Guttering Heating & Plumbing services humanitarian aid Torrington Library has kindly agreed to PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS 40+ get vaccinated as(Est soon asyrs) they are Open 8.30-4pm Mon-Fri & 8.30-2pm Sat Renovation  Painting & Decorating & Extensions Boiler Service/Installations/Maintenance Work both in the UK and Torrington be a collection point (my Mum works able.

Protect yourself early to minimise Fresharound homemadethe fillings for;Bathroom Patios & Decking  Legionnaires Control Specialists Specialists world.

LPG andtoNatural dwellings & caravans there, it’s alwaysOil,good haveGas Heating, Torridge Vale Social Club the riskDomestic of getting flu.

MSSCh. MBChA. The shop, which Free has Quotations been Plumbing in someone on the inside!) and I will Flu &can be a serious illness, Landlords, Servicing Commissioning Roofing 5.30pm & 7.30pm Torrington for 16 years, recently arrange collection of the filled bag from particularly for those in an ‘at risk’ * All Day625645 Breakfast, Sausage * 01805 email: cedek.co@virgin.net All Plumbing work—Calor Gas Bev Stockists (delivery624955 available) Tel: 01805 underwent a small refit, giving it& aBacon newBaps624382 your home. Alternatively if you would 01805 group. It can result in a spell in * Italian Coffees, Teas, Cakes,07857 Mlik Shakes, *like your car cleaned I can be lease of life!

Mobile: Chris 767 579 116 New Street (via Stoneman’s hospital, and Lane), sadlyTorrington flu kills. The best Chocolate whipped cream & marshmallows * 01805 Steph 07791 019 we would like you464623223 On 1* stHotDecember with theTel &way contacted on 01805 622539.

Fax 01805 623293 yourself is to be to protect e th "No job too big or too small" Also Visits V isits throughout available forGas take-away orwhat eat-in to come andAllfind outHome more about Natural & LPG Registered Henry D’Alberti-Nicholson 0844 897 8000 vaccinated. www.slimmingworld.com Oftec Reg. FREE ESTIMATES Gas Safe No. 21765 we do as an organisation; whatT we 01237-474244 do for property 'TLC' phone TPS North Devon Tel: el:

Slice of Life, High Street Torrington Total Property Services

opodist

y



RON SUSSEX AND SONS LTD Slimming World



he British Chiropody Association Professions Council

TPS

clubeart big h

relevant for western cultures. There is seen. Roe deer seem to Medals and Promotion forbe thriving no charge for the sessions other than a amongst our 18 mammals, Torrington ACF Members but the small charge covering the cost of the success of the adder in our four Torrington Army Cadet Staff room hire. reptiles isEllie not Kinsella popular with some.

Sergeant (17) has If you are interested or want to know Apart from occasional meetings with received promotion to the senior rank more (even if Thursday is not a wasp nests, we know Major. little about our of Cadet Sergeant Adult convenient time) please give me a ring insect population together with other Instructor Staff Sergeant Gary Woods on 01769 579829.

Common News invertebrates,. has received the Queen’s Jubilee Simonwe Millward On The Common have Medal, Especially interesting be a having given more would than five identified over 300 species of wild years surveyvoluntary of our ponds and tostreams, service the Raising flowers.Funds There for must be some that we organization this would which also promotes provide information personal have missed, but due to their development Educating Children regarding water quality and of pollution. in young people 12 to prominence when flowering, the list 18I years. know that Torrington Junior School in Uganda and must be fairly complete.

The presentations were go made at pupils used to regularly stream Cambodia The Tree Trail contains 52 kinds RAF St Mawgan March training dipping.

Otherduring schools must have Over Eastertrees Ian and we have 21 camp. of native used the fine habitats to explore the Kevern will attempt introduced species on other parts of For moreofinformation Torrington ecology the area. on Can we have toThe cycleCommon.

600km from We The knowAtlantic of 40 ACF call Sergeant Major Garry Coates your discoveries please?

Ocean to The Mediterranean. It's different grasses, 11 sedges, nine 0773 910 961 Michael Collingham further than he has ever cycled.

J Harvey, Sergeant Major rushes and 15 ferns. We do however He is doing it because he wants to have much more limited knowledge help children in Uganda and Cambodia Counselling for Families and about other types of plant. list and Jessica Here Folks get an education. Edukid is aA charity guide to fungi is underway, but any With Another Update Young People that helps former child soldiers, additional information would orphans, HIV/AIDSbe From The K9focus at abductees, RELATE North Devon welcome – as in other areas such as sufferers and those living in chronic Family Counselling Rescue mosses, liverworts and lichens. poverty. They provide everything they amilies can be a source of support, Mad March has lived diversity need Our to attend school - books, shoes, encouragement and love, but sometimes up to its name Amateur with the Athletic Club’s Torrington of butterflies is accommodation, uniform, school fees, relationships within families are put under strain and family members feelon rescue taking in more annual Christmas Caper Race welletc. known, with food, th dogs than 18 ever, although 2011, due tostarts lots ofat isolated overlooked.

December Sunday 30 species Fororevery child Edukid helps, their local support we on, haveorbeen able to find Family counsellingwill canincrease help when aren’t getting when parents 11am.

Registration begins at 9.30am lifedescribed. expectancy by siblings an more homes for our four-legged andaverage children are going through a divorce or separation.

Forming a new family is a t T o r r i n g t o n R u g b y C lau b of seven years. It costs Especially friends.

K9focus was only set up in See torringtonaac.org for further challenge, and it is at this point that many parents contact Relate for some support Edukid £60 per welcome are year the per child, and the August and since that time has

details.2010 to help everyone settle. aim of his ride is to help many children.

Fritillaries, but the over to 200 and When families go through it can difficult to learn adapt.abused Counselling Please sponsor to make a be rehomed High Brown has Ian change, abandoned dogs in North Devon, and Together Again candifference help members toforsupport one another through these difficult times, to to these children's lives. not family been recorded ten years. soIt’s I was Lynne to say thataasked time ofby theAunty year again reduce conflict and of arguments and and growgo, stronger as result.

Please visit: www.justgiving.com/ Eighty kinds birds come BIGyou thank to everyone for all For to remember Relate Devon counsellors can see family oryou members individually; iankevern to make a small donation oroftheaentire andNorth as with national trends, some your help and support. find me onare Facebook. it gives everyone abecoming chance to have voice and“Torrington be heard. Together” these more a rarely th all pleased to hear the Wethe were On of December Thank you, the extent “It is amazing how many parents realise to7which their child has bottled recent announcement regarding Ian Kevern up their feelings” says a Relate Family Therapist.

If you’re having problems as a family, whatever’s causing them, Relate Family Counselling can help the whole family to communicate better, and to understand and resolve differences.

Cedek Heating CHURCH STREET& Plumbing Services

F

Gardening Service

9

21 13

It sounds a long way off Course compulsory microchipping and if Rosemoor Allotment

But please make a diary anyone has anynew concerns about this Rosemoor seeks cropnote of To come and share the things do Aunty Lynne is at the end of the we phone. allotmenteers The imaginative tote able to offer K9Focus is now

R

HStown’s Garden of all the microchipping.

Allsocieties us rescue dogs are Rosemoor iscan their commitment their rolesbe lost chipped so that wefor never once again Parkinson’s, and caring again and end up in a horrible dog looking keen Alarmsfor and10 Football goals be put to pounds where we might gardeners to take part Golf and Exhibitions sleep. in Societies its informative andhave seen on our for youth Some of you may practical nine-month And many more, (www.facebook.com/ all so worthwhile Facebook page allotment course.

Truly I say, K9focus) thatforsooth we recently took in a 7 for year 7.30 in Starting February, three old mastiff calledsuccessful Bella.

Wednesday, December 7 but candidates will receive expert RHS Bella really is a big softie she is Torridge Vale Social very much overweight.

She needsand tuition, have their ownClub plotalso to tend, aan bithome-grown of local heaven. toEnjoy have operation costing around take away harvests.

They VJT £500receive as she has in-growing eyelashes will regular allotment master and is and in weekly constantaccess pain. toWe classes theirare plots, launching an Remembrance appeal this month to get all in the picturesque setting of the RHS’ In her Lord eyes corrected ensure she Devon garden.

Ponsonbyandwas an that absolute is‘Our no longer pain.

She is also on from aan alloment course has grown tartar who in made his servants live diet as tothe operation cannot absolute dog's life. strength strength overHis the harshest pastbefour performed until she has losthisexcited a faithful few to treatment was reserved years, and once again wefor are pounds!

We know times are difficult butler Whibble.

It was “Whibble getformyto welcome new novice vegetable growers everyone at “Whibble, the moment buta whisky!'' if you boots off!” get me join us to learn from our expert team. We could sparethis a few to helpallmy Whibble and coppers Whibble that, day offer brilliant facilities, all the equipment lovely friend then she would be very long.

One evening his lordship came and know-how for a successful year of grateful.

You his canclub donate via our home from afteronline acourse particularly vegetable growing, says leader website (www.k9focus.co.uk) and see lavish dinner and barked, “Whibble, run Peter Earl. more pictures of Bella, or alternatively me a bath!”

In due course he slipped our not allotmenteers haveto come if ‘All youof into do havewater. access a gently the soapy Feeling the from a great variety of backgrounds computer thenofcheques (made toand after-effects his dinner, he out passed across all age groups but one K9focus) be sentreminiscent to they Miss have Bella, wind in can a manner of an thing in common – the passion for and K9focus, Shepherds View, Lower Hill, Icelandic geyser and promptly fell a willingness to learn basic principles Stsleep.

Giles, Torrington, Devon EX38 Just then the the door burst7JU. openof growing your Whibble own vegetables,’ Nextthere month I will be telling you Peter. all and stood, to says attention, The of the course is ashows veryLordship low, £50, about our forthcoming dog , but withcost a hot water bottle.

His which the cost of the gardening in exploded, thecovers meantime please do keep “Get out man, I didn't ring following us seeds. on Facebook and sharing boots Students will“I beg have and Iand don't want you, go away”. our access to their plots everyisWednesday to stories. differ sir, my hearing perfect. I Lots ofsay, woofs and licks, (10.30am 4pm) and must beabout able ato distinctly- heard you what attend the two-hour tutorials the start Miss at Jessica. of each month.

How to apply

To take PET advantage of this opportunity, WHISKERS CENTRE

please write to Curator Jon Webster with (approx 50 words), stating why you would like a Large stock of pet foods Washing 8QE beginners’ vegetable plot at Rosemoor being bullied. EX19 YoungPressure people often feel pressurised by their peer group to conform Nutro, Wellbeloved, Beta Free Quotations Tel: 01805 804205 Tidying & More Mark Alford, Cann andBird (approx 50Scott words), and indicating what in ways they areGarden not comfortable with.

Bakers etc.

Wild you will do with your new Andrew Luxton are available to knowledge Open Having someone ‘outside’ and independent to talk to often helps put these issues Repairs Cycle seeds and nuts.

01805 625645 email: cedek.co@virgin.net 100 words). see(approx clients by appointment. into perspective.

Lots of posh & normal Monday to Saturday 6.30am - 8.00pm Applications close November 2015.

Mobile: Chris 07857 767 579 If you’re having problems, Relate North Devon Young Person counselling may wellies in all30sizes Local, reliable, ‘on the dot’ Sunday 8.00am - 7.00pm Call 01805 or visit our RHS Garden Steph 07791 019 464 Entries623725 to: Jon Webster, be able to help.

20 South Torrington offices in Street, Okehampton and Exeter Convenience Store & Post Office Rosemoor, Great Torrington Devon EX38 Relate Ring counselling available in Barnstaple.

Simonis 01805 622851 07779 489 925 ( (01805) 622859 www.stones-solicitors.co.uk mail@stones-solicitors.co.uk For further information please go tofor www.relate-ed.org.uk www.churchststores.co.uk our latest offers or phone 0300 7729681 8PH or jonathanwebster@rhs.org.uk

Young People’s Counselling STORES

Central Heatingcounselling /Bathroom/Shower/ Children and young people’s is for any young person who is having Grass &Installations Hedge Cutting DOLTON Wet Room + Boiler problems. Often young people are troubled byService issues such as parents arguing, or

2

Fora all pet needs briefyour personal background

15

27

L

l Local Driving Instructor l Beginners or partially trained l Nervous pupils welcome l Discounts for block bookings l Dual controls Alan Edwards - DSA ADI (Car) l Refresher lessons Tel: Torrington 01805 622972 l Pass Plus Mobile: 07818 667 074

also needClub volunteers to help with Torrington We Rugby supporting the café and its customers so if you can spare two hours a month 2015-2016 Season then please get in touch.

Dry Seasoned Hardwood Logs Hardwood £110 a load 1 Truck load = 1.3m³/46ft³ Please ring Ambrose Wood Fuels, Umberleigh

opportunity to ask e locations for these

Hartland Church Hall In April Annie Brierley is coming to Training Woodland Vale Care read short stories poems which raining for the new season hasandMike on Squire should invoke a lot of memories from begun with some good numbers Arts Centre, Bideford Cricket match past.

If you, athe loved one or friend turning up the and enjoying This fun-filled has a memory problem then let them evening Memorialbenefits Hall, of two new coaches with loads of went ahead again, watched by Sarah know about the Café - everyone is new ideas and enthusiasm.

Squire and family members, although the welcome.

Please feel free to turn up on weather was more suited to playing water ortham Hall For further information contact evenings, 6.30/7pm to join polo than d likeWednesday any further cricket! Following last year’s Pauline Page 01805 625969 or email fields. ut any in, ofat Donnacroft playing draw, the on paulinepage123@btinternet.comRugby Club were outplayed please and unfortunately lost, even allowing for Jones, Dickie Cawthrone memorial game some outstanding field catches and a Meditation ry (01237 certain Mr Scoynes getting his first v South Molton There is a weekly meditation class ever Following lasteveryyear’s Thursday in the dance studio atwicket (against a proper inaugural match at TheSouth Plough Arts Centre, 6.15-7.15pm cricketer at that!). on Memory MoltonCafé in memory of Meditation is a way of Our thanks to all café Dickie, seems a togood be friend to learning to relax and at St.Giles’ Cricket ength-to-strength both clubs, with this year’s respond creatively to the and Social Clubs for ers every month. game went ahead at challenges which life organising the event day fellTorrington, on Valentine’s refreshments with the throws at us. It can also and ebrate we hadteam a duet home being help the to reduce stress. By learning toafterwards. Perhaps we ng ballads as again! well as meditate we find space in our busystart playing them at rugby, should victors cuits and decorations. lives to get might actually win that.

We have benefited from the in touch with ourselvesweand e which helped raise awareness of what is going on arrival of some newdevelop faces this some of the costs. our mind us. season, following inthe aboveand in the world aroundNatWest Rugby Force fortunate again to get If we think of finding happiness, inner mentioned new coaches, which We have been very fortunate from the Devon peace, as ato state of in mind then enabled us to take the game being accepted for a grant from d which will help us to meditation can lead help us to achieve that South Moltonweand gain a healthy NatWest, through their involvement with velop the service goal. half came with half-time.

The second our great game via the RBS Six Nations ple whobyhave memory I teach two on complementary practices, various changes to personnel both sponsorship.

We are one of 350 Clubs John Portman who put one which focuses on the breath bearing this is still being throughout and the work sides, to secure thisin mind the other which focuses on the country getting at least a pre-season training game. £500 to put towards the general benefit ntioned used in lastas month’s emotions. I have been meditating for a brought the final score line of the whole club, players, spectators, moving South away Molton from the number of years and learnt the 33-28. With South Molton still members etc. eed to back recruittoanother practices with the Triratna Buddhist a division than us,a this is aiser. being If anyone is higher Wewhich still have Community, movement hassome exciting work to be post then please get indication hopefully a good the seasonin completed, couldn’t be done on adaptedofBuddhism a way thatwhich is ahead - why not try to come up and watch the annual ‘clean up’ day, but a massive a game for yourselves in the near future. thanks to all who gave their time and energy to a very successful day, all washed down with a few free pints and a Dates for the diary 3rd October – Barnstaple are hopefully couple of burgers as a suitable thank you.

If anyone else would like to become bringing two teams for our first and involved on or off the pitch, please contact second XV to play.

10th October – first home league me on the details below. You can hire our game of the season against Ilfracombe. facilities for various purposes or sponsor Following Ilfracombe’s first victory over us in a variety of ways, all help is, as us earlier this year, for many years, this always, greatly appreciated.

C’mon Torrie. should make for an interesting afternoon.

Rob Bewes, 07976 066 440, Why not encompass watching part of Club Chairman the Rugby World Cup at the same time.

Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportsmanship 28

T

01769 540 014 Thank you from the Friends of Torrington Bluecoat

F

riends of Torrington Bluecoat have enjoyed another amazing year!

In the 2014/2015 school year we raised an amazing £9695. We are delighted that from monies raised, £8796 has been invested back into school to support the identified priority of ICT, and to enhance enrichment activities that are made available to the children throughout the year. The fundraising has had a direct impact on the provision for our children and has enriched their experiences. Full details are available on the school website on the FoTB Fundraising page.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the local businesses who made donations towards our Summer Fayre: 1610, A&J Opticians, Black Horse, Cavalier, Co-op, Crafty Needles, Crawfords, Gnome Reserve, Jewel in the Town, John Patts, Kenwyn Stove & Chimney Company, Kitch n Cupboard, Mike the Sign Maker, Pannier Market— Tuesday Traders, Post Office, Puffing Billy, Slice of Life, The Big Sheep, The Milky Way, Torrington Cycle Hire, Toyzone, Webbers Property Services, Westcountry Maintenance Services Ltd. We would like to say a very big thank you to Ware’s Butchers for bringing along their BBQ and providing the crowds with tasty burgers and hot dogs once again.

The fayre was an overwhelming success and raised over £1800. It was a real community event and the new attraction of The Bungee Run and our Water Bomb throwing competition kept the crowds amused! It was wonderful to welcome 2015’s May Queen, Neve Cox, to officially open the fayre for us. Thanks to all the May Fair entourage that attended and their parents. We would also like to thank our friends Streetz, our fayres wouldn’t be complete without them.

If you can spare any time and would like to get involved with the Friends we would love to hear from you – volunteers are always welcome. Leave your details at school reception or drop us an email at fotb@bluecoat-primary.org and we’ll be in touch.

FoTB Committee fotb@bluecoat-primary.org

W

e have some great highlights this month including The New Jersey Boys - Oh What a Night! The music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons on Friday 2nd October over at Devon Hall in Bideford College; we have the return of the lovely voice of Edwina Hayes here at The Plough on Saturday 3rd October, definitely one not to miss.

Great theatre with Angel Exit Theatre Co, The Ballad of Martha Brown - the last woman publicly hanged in Dorset in 1856 on Tuesday 6th October. Recently voted ‘Female Vocalist of the Year’ at the British Blues Awards, Jo Harman is here on Saturday 10th October.

Other highlights include live screenings from the National Theatre’s production of Hamlet with Benedict Cumberbatch, and RSC’s production of Henry V. If comedy is your thing, don’t miss Sean Hughes with his new show ‘Mumbo Jumbo’ and Jenny Éclair- How To Be A Middle Aged Woman (Without Going Insane), they are both putting middle age under the microscope and don’t know whether to laugh or cry We round the month off with a rocking good night with Willie and the Bandits, a classic blues rock trio.

For more details pop into The Plough, call the Box Office on 01805 624624 or check the website www.theploughartscentre.org.uk.

Visual Arts at The Plough

I

t’s The Plough Open Drawing Competition 2015, with the shortlisted artists providing a fascinating chance to explore the various approaches and techniques different artists bring to the discipline of drawing. Always a varied and interesting exhibition, do come along to the prize giving night on Friday 2nd October at 7pm. The exhibition runs Friday 2nd - Saturday 24th October.

Cliff Lee - North Devon Based Fine Artist, shows his abstracted photos on the café wall from Tuesday 29th September - Saturday 31st October. Cliff grew up in North Devon, and developed a love for the sea and art. In August, 2013 he suffered a major stroke, losing the use of

his right arm, the tool of his trade. This led him to create new artistic pieces with his left hand, producing increasingly detailed abstract work.

Workshops this month include; 6 Week Fabric Printing Course 1st October 10am-12.30pm.

2 Day Lampshade Making Workshop 3rd October and 10th October 10am-4pm.

Improving Your Photography, 5 week course from 5th October 6.30-8.30pm.

Open Access Print Workshops 12th October, 2nd November and Monday 30th November 10am-3pm.

Indian Painting Workshop 10th October 11am-4.30pm.

Design a Screenprinted Shopper Bag or Cushion 17th October 10am-4pm.

29

This ‘Think Local First’ page is available to all advertisers, existing and new, who wish to share their business news. Please email Esther at torrington. crieradverts@gmail.com or call 01805 603023.

Latin for Beginners at The Plough! visne discere linguam Latinam?

A

ccording to Swedish scientists, learning a foreign language can increase the size of your brain; it can also improve memory and mental flexibility. Latin specifically, as opposed to modern foreign languages, is taught to be read and not spoken, so it is the perfect choice for the timid of Torrington! A knowledge of Latin aids understanding of languages generally, in particular the Romance languages and English, so it would be an excellent support for other school subjects, as well as a new skill in its own right. Learning Latin also introduces you to the remarkable literature and history of the ancient Romans – think gladiators, gods, lavish parties, romance, lots of battles and a volcano.

If all of that isn’t enough, consider two giants of the modern world: J. K. Rowling and Mark Zuckerberg. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series, studied Latin at Exeter University; much of the magic in her writing, in particular the naming of spells, comes from the Latin language. Zuckerberg, creator of social networking site Facebook, also studied Latin and now regards the subject as one of the keys to his success: he is reportedly worth $39.7 billion.

Interested? Lauren Douglas, a teacher and enthusiastic Latinist, has just returned to Torrington from the South East and is keen to introduce Latin learning to North Devon. She will be running a class for beginners every Wednesday at 7-8pm in The Plough Arts Centre. The class is for anyone from secondary school age to retirement and beyond, and no previous experience in Latin or modern foreign languages is expected. Sessions cost £5 each or £30 for the term (8 sessions). Please contact Lauren by email (ldouglas7399@gmail.com), telephone (01805 624250) or via Facebook (www.facebook.com/romansintorrington) if you want to find out more, or just turn up for the first session on Wednesday October 7th 7-8pm at the Plough.

Lauren can also offer private tuition to anyone interested in working towards entry Level, GCSE and A level qualifications.

P

ee Wee’s Personal Homecare Ltd, run by Hayley and Phil, has just celebrated its first anniversary in business and in that time has served a large number of people in the Great Torrington and surrounding areas.

The enormous help of a very dedicated and professional team of DBS checked and fully trained staff, has enabled our Care Quality Commission registered company to expand in that time, and it continues to do so month on month.

We offer a full range of Home Care Services; from general housekeeping/ cooking to the more personal help with washing and dressing. Depending on each individually tailored care package, Function Fitness Going from we offer a number of regular visits during Strength to Strength the day/evening or block visits of longer duration.

Bring this article with you for your first session free!

Promoting independence, choice and unction Fitness is in its fourth year now, and equality are at the centre of what we do will be celebrating its fourth Christmas in the Eric Palmer Centre. It fills us with pride when people tell us how much a part and our motto “We Care Because We Care About You” is never forgotten. We of the community it is, as that was always the intention. Thank you to all the people are the only care service with offices and our amazing staff, who have supported us over the years! in the town of Great Torrington, so are We are in Autumn, so now is the time to make your Christmas Cracker of a body, easily accessible if you need help or not two weeks before your work party! advice.

We run regular bootcamps and have over 25 classes that run every week, and if We are more than happy to come that isn’t for you we will help plan a programme in the gym that suits you. Why not to your home to discuss your needs. train with a buddy to encourage each other?

Hayley or Phil can be contacted on ‘The best project you’ll ever work on is you!’

Lou, Paul and Team. 01805 628066 or 07442 507593.

F

30

Pee Wee’s Personal Homecare We Care Because We Care About You

Half Term Halloween Rosemoor Half Term events for Families Pumpkin Weekend

Spooktacular Halloween Festival

24th - 25th October Saturday & Sunday, 10am - 3pm.

Saturday 24th October until Sunday 1st Carve your own pumpkin at our lantern making workshops with pumpkins supplied at £1 each. Take the Pumpkin Trail around the Garden and learn how to cook delicious November 2015 Fun by Day & Scary by Night pumpkin based dishes at our cookery demonstrations each afternoon. he BIG Sheep’s annual Hedgehog Homes - Craft Workshop for Families with Diana Goodacre Spooktacular Halloween Festival, th 26 October 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm. which takes place at the awardMake a home for the hedgehogs that visit your garden. winning family attraction from Saturday Seed Hedgehogs Craft Workshop for Families - WOW Recreate with Mrs Recycle 24th October to Sunday 1st November, is 27th October 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm. set to be the most sensational to-date.

Have a go at collecting autumn seeds, which in turn can be mixed in bubbling Themed ‘Fun by Day’ and ‘Seriously cauldrons of black, peat free soil to make Seed Hedgehogs and decorate a Sinister, Scary and Spooky by Night,’ terracotta dish for taking home and reusing to feed water to wildlife during winter. there will be lots of family fun to enjoy Willow Spiders with Mary Jannaway - Craft Workshop for Families throughout the day time. If however, 28th October 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm. you are fearless and full of courage, the Make a simple but scary spider from coloured willow to dangle from trees and Fright Fest attractions on the evenings of bushes and give your friends and family a fright !

Thursday 29th, Friday 30th and Saturday Leaf Mobiles and Hangings - Craft Workshop for Families 31st will be perfect for you.

29th October 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm.

The Halloween day time festival 10am Make a beautiful woodland inspired room decoration for your ceiling or window from to 6pm, will be a ‘Happy Halloween’, and the colourful fallen leaves of autumn families and young children can enjoy the Forest of Fright! Craft Workshop for Families with Rebecca Lucraft happy, smiley side of Halloween.

30th October 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm.

Attractions will include: Haunted Make a miniature 3D autumn forest scene from paper, complete with spooky Hayride, Haunted House – the most woodland wolves, crows and bats. haunted house in Devon that no Estate Agent can sell!

Evening Witches Witch’s Cave - Halloween Trick or Treat with Entertainingly Different Flying School, Lakeside Ghost Train 31st October 11am - 1pm or 2pm - 4pm Ride, Arachnophobia Ride, Halloween Join us if you dare for a visit to the Halloween Witch’s smoky, spooky cave at the Panto and fun in the Ewetopia Indoor bottom of the Winter Garden. Meet the witch herself and fish for a trick or a treat in Playground, avoiding ghosts amongst the her caldron of sticky green gloop. play equipment.

Lantern decorating Workshop for Families There will also be Pumpkin Carving – st 1 November 11am - 1pm carve your own Jack O’ Lantern, and meet Come along and decorate your very own paper bag lantern to let the light of a our special guest – amazing pumpkin battery powered flickering tea light candle shine out. carver, Simon McMinnes who will be Guided Lantern Walk for Families carving on site on 26th & 27th October.

1st November 2.30pm Daily Fancy Dress – FREE Halloween Join us for a tramp through the Woodlands with your decorated paper bag Lantern to face painting.

Daily fancy dress light your way and help us scare off any lingering spooks from Halloween. competitions, prizes and parade.

(Normal Garden Admission for all events) The Fright Fest Devon Company will be taking over the BIG Sheep on the evenings of Thursday 29th October to Active Kidz Holiday Programme Saturday 31st October and have ramped th th up previous Halloween evening parties 26 to 30 October njoy half term holiday fun at one of our Active Kidz Holiday Playscheme days. by several scare factors. This year’s Keep your little horrors busy this October half term by booking them on to your Halloween attraction should only be local 1610 leisure centre half term play scheme. Each day offers a host of spooky attended by the brave and courageous. sports and activities to entertain the children as well as ghostly themed games and The evening attraction will NOT be arts and crafts. So why not book your child on for half a day, a day or even a whole suitable for children under 14 years of age and parental discretion is advised. week?

From 6.30pm onwards attractions will The play scheme will take place at Torrington Pool and Torridge Pool.

For more information and full details of what is on offer please contact your local include: Zombie Zone Live, Carn-Evil of 1610 centre or visit: www.1610.org.uk/events/active-kidz-october-holiday-programme/ Chaos and The Deadly Sinster Hay Ride!

T

E

Events

31

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

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

01805 6280666 PHIL OR HAYLEY 07442 507593

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

Torrington Torrington & & District DistrictCommunity CommunityNews News&&Events Events

email: torrington.crier@gmail.com www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk 01805 603152

Editorial: torrington.crier@gmail.com Becky Huxtable: 01805 603152

If possible, all submissions and enquiries to the email above - 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: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Esther Williams: 01805 603023

Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue.

10% discount for a run of five adverts. All advertisements are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

Deadlines: All copy by 12 noon on the second Thursday of the month before publication.

32

The Crier Diary, for community and fundraising events only, is available on the Library counter, please enter details yourself.

Please include event, venue, time and a brief description if required. Or email: torrington.crier@gmail.com.

EDITOR/PRODUCTION ADVERTISING/ACCOUNTS PRINTED BY DISTRIBUTION RURAL DISTRIBUTION TYPING ONLINE CRIER

Becky Huxtable Esther Williams Toptown Printers Alan Blamire/Sue Crane Community Jenny Hearn Steve Young

The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Crier Team.