Torrington Crier October 2022

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

This edition was produced prior to the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. May she rest in peace.

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 (please note that this is a home number not an office)

E: torrington.crier@gmail.com

Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon.

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

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E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

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

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Torrington

What's On?

At The Great Torrington Town & Community Hall

Summer is coming to its sticky end and we are now entering the cosy ‘ber’ months, fear not! The Town Hall is presenting some fun events to warm our chilly days and long nights.

Town Hall Lunch Club

Who doesn’t want a generous helping of Rosie’s fish pie - delicious! Currently running every other Thursday from 122pm, our popular lunch club offers a relaxing space to watch the world go by, with great food and drink plus good company. What’s not to love! There is a varied menu to tempt you, just £6.95 for the main course or with a yummy dessert £9.50. Thoroughly recommended by those who have already tried it, we are receiving great compliments and welcoming a lot of regular diners.

Halloween Spookfest!

To all boys and ghouls and creatures of the night - join us on the 31st of October in our haunted Undercroft after you have tricked and treated, to continue the ghostly goings on. We will be selling hot dogs, hot chocolate treats and something witchily warming for the grown-ups, as well as a FREE disco.

From 5.30pm onwards. No bookings required, just turn up, if you’re brave… Mix & Mingle

A brand-new club for people with care needs and their carers to spend either the day, a morning or afternoon session, in the company of others, to enjoy crafts, puzzles, games and other stimulating activities. Just £15 per person per day, but no charge for carers. Our building is fully accessible for all. Our grateful thanks to the Town Council and the Town and Alms trust who have supported us to make this venture possible. Please contact us on 07793 241 555 for more information. Start date 7th November. Community Awards Evening - Friday 25th November

We are thrilled to be doing this event again so get cracking with your nominations in the 10 categories

for adults and children. Check on our website greattorringtontownhall.org or pop in for a nomination form at the Town Hall. Make sure your favourite doesn’t miss out! Quilters Club - fortnightly 12.30-3pm

Another new venture, come along and try it out, lots of fun, enjoy the company of other new quilters. Donna Forse is a highly respected teacher who makes the sessions great fun, and you will be amazed what you will be able to do! Only £5 each session. Ring 07723 047 978 to book a space or for more information. Christmas Fayre Sat 19th November 9am-4pm

Our town centre will be buzzing with lots going on, not only at the Town Hall but at other places too, so there is plenty to see plus a great range of festive prezzies to suit all pockets. Come down with the family and friends to enjoy some Christmas spirit – our bar will be open!

Traders - we have some spaces if you want to book a table and show off your Christmas goods, food, drink and gifts - we want lots of choice for everyone. Please contact Celia on admin@ greattorrington-townhall.org.

Christmas Parties at the Town Hall 3rd &17th December

It’s never too early to think about Christmas celebrations and the Trustees are inviting you to join our festivities! Our Christmas dinner/ dances will be held on 3rd and 17th December. Perfect for family get-togethers, fun with friends, or bring a party from your own workplace for what promises to be an evening of jolly japers. Three course meal by an amazing chef, a glass of bubbly on arrival and then dance the night away! Check out our website for details and to book on greattorrington-townhall.org/ events.

Great Torrington May Fair & Carnival Committee

Whenyou read this we would have had our first meeting after our summer break and are now beginning to plan for the Great Torrington May Fair and Carnival 2023.

Without continued support from the local community these events will inevitably suffer, as has been seen this year in Barnstaple by the cancellation of their traditional carnival procession.

We are seeking a person to take notes/minutes at our meetings once a month. Would you like to join our committee and help to keep Great Torrington’s tradition alive?

We meet on a Tuesday evening once a month, approx. eight times a year. Would YOU have time to spare to help with this admin role?

For further details please make contact via Facebook or call Pauline on 07790 549 982 or email: paulinebaker3@hotmail.co.uk.

Parish Church

Unfortunately, the church has had to be locked again, following two thefts from the building. We are looking into fitting CCTV in order to open it again soon.

The recent organ and voice recital by Andrew Millington and North Devon Choral, together with a recital by Ed Gaut (organ scholar at Keble College, Oxford), raised £1,400 for the organ restoration fund.

The process for the appointment of a new priest for the parishes of Great Torrington, Little Torrington with Taddiport and Frithelstock is well under way and interviews have taken place. We are delighted to report that a priest has been offered the post and has accepted. He hopes to be in post before Christmas. Further details to follow.

A date for your diary – the annual Christmas Fair will be held in the church on Saturday November 19th from 2-4.30pm. More information next month.

Chris Foster

Library News

Gadgeteers

It was wonderful to have the library full of children this summer, engaging in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge and enjoying our library events.

Once again, we must thank our wonderful Friends of Great Torrington Library for financially supporting our events programme and doubling up as Libraries Unlimited volunteers, actively assisting staff to deliver the Summer Reading Challenge and fun events.

Our Friends also supplied the goodies for the Gadgeteer finishers’ prize draw. We offer an ongoing reading challenge for children – The Secret Book Quest –children read a total of 50 books, collect stickers along the way, and decipher a code…!

Fun Palace Saturday morning 1st October from 10am-12.30pm.

Our Fun Palace will be held at the Castle Community Centre (in the garden behind the library) this year. Pop along and see what crafting and fun activities are on offer for you to join in with. Our makers are all enthusiastic to share their skills with budding enthusiasts.

Unlocking the Cage 14-28 October

Unlocking the Cage is coming to Torrington Library, from 14th to 28th of October. Commissioned by Libraries Unlimited through its Arts Council funded programme of cultural activity programme, and touring libraries across Devon including ours, the captivating stories of forgotten female writers have been brought to life in this new augmented reality installation. Unlocking the Cage is an immersive AR experience that takes viewers on a journey through the lives and works of four women writers, whose books reside within the ‘Cage’ beneath the floors of Exeter Library. To experience this free installation, visit Torrington Library.

Hallowe'en Children's Crafting Session 27 October 10.30am-12pm Drop in events - £1.

Bounce & Rhyme story time – Autumn Term Tuesday mornings at 10.30am

Our lively sessions are back for term-time for pre-school children and their grownups. We look forward to welcoming everyone.

Baby Self Weigh Tuesday 11.30am-4pm

New starting time for parents not joining us at Bounce & Rhyme! Walk & Talk Thursday 10.30am

Our weekly walk has proved exceptionally popular and new participants are very welcome to enjoy this gentle walk, with lots of talk, followed by a cuppa.

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

Cost of Living Community Fayre

Weare really pleased to be holding a Community Fayre on 8th October at Torrington Town Hall, running from 9:30am to 1:30pm. If you would like some help and advice on the current issues we are facing around the rising cost of living, then please do come and see us. It’s free and there will be range of organisations who can potentially help you with cutting costs, saving energy and making your money go a bit further. We want to be there to support our communities during these more challenging times.

For more information, please contact Michelle Harding, Community Developer for Torrington 100 on 07939 154 436 or email michelle@ttvs.org.uk.

Torrington in Bloom

On the 23rd August, Torrington in Bloom held the presentation evening for our Best Container competition, which celebrated the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The venue was the Oak Room of the Town Hall which was a very good site to hold such an event. The Town Mayor, Cllr Doug Smith, attended to present the prizes and everyone seemed to enjoy the evening.

Torrington in Bloom would like to thank the Committee at the Town Hall for looking after us so well, particularly Helen Rumbold and Rosie who prepared a lovely spread for us at reasonable cost.

The winners of the competition were as follows:

1st – Barry Sussex, 38 Dartington Fields (a day out at RHS Rosemoor, including a picnic lunch for up to 4 people).

2nd – Bill Metherell, 33 Morton Drive (£25 voucher to spend at Dartington Crystal)

3rd – Mr/Mrs Britton, Westcountry Crystal, School Lane (£15 voucher to spend at Duffy’s Home Hardware)

A special prize was also awarded to Logan Steerment (and Mum & Dad!) of some children’s gardening tools, for the tremendous effort made by him and his family to create a pirate ship from recycled materials. Planting it, painting pebbles and making a lovely seaside scene (I think Capt Jack Sparrow would have been delighted with the effort!).

Torrington in Bloom would like to thank RHS Rosemoor for donating the First Prize (and for Geraldine King who was our judge on the day), Dartington Crystal (2nd Prize) and Duffy’s Home Hardware (3rd Prize).

Thanks also go to Xanadu, Whiskers Pet Centre and those individuals who provided a good variety of prizes for our raffle, which raised £52 towards costs on the night.

Cherry Hammon, Torrington in Bloom

Great Torrington Bowling Club Short Mat Section

TheGreat Torrington Bowling Club has just finished a very successful outdoor season and now retires indoors to play short mat bowls starting on 1st October until the end of March 2023.

On Saturday 1st October we are having two open sessions at 10am and

2pm for two hours, for anyone wishing to try their skills at short mat bowling. All you have to do is have a pair of flat soled shoes or trainers and we supply the bowls.

The bowling club is open all the year round and welcomes anyone wishing to learn the sport and enjoy light exercise

Dowland Memorial

Three young men from Dowland did not return to their families after the end of World War I. Their sacrifice has never been acknowledged in our parish. We aim to put this right by creating a lasting memorial and bring their names back into the village for future generations to remember.

In October, we will be unveiling our handmade memorial, alongside a cascade of over 7000 flowers, both inside the church and outside in the churchyard, at St. Peter’s, Dowland EX19 8PD. More importantly, we will be telling the story of each of our young men and their short lives.

Open over two weekends in October, 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 28th, 29th 30th, 10.30am - 5pm. Refreshments will be available. The proceeds raised will go to support the work of the Royal British Legion and its vital support of veterans of war today, as well as the upkeep of St.Peter’s Church, Dowland, including our war memorial and commonwealth war grave.

We do hope you can visit and join us in our remembrance.

Sue Dunn (susiej03@hotmail.com)

and social activities at the same time. Every Monday is club night and new players are welcome to try their skills. We are a very social and friendly club, come and join us.

Fred Niven Vice Chairman Great Torrington Bowling Club (Estb.1645)

Great Torrington Bowling Club’s Best Season

The Great Torrington Bowling Club has just finished a very successful outdoor season. Three of our players were presented with their County Badge: Mrs Carol Phillips, Mike Bayliss and Keith Jackson by the Bowls Devon Presidents Aileen Rowden (Ladies) and Paul Debnam (Men).

The club’s players qualified for 11 area finals and were successful in winning 10 of them. The ladies winners were: County Singles – Elaine Clements; County Rinks – Jane Ogg, Theresa Cockman, Teresa Walter and Jan Hines; Over55 Singles –Karen Galloway; Over 55 Pairs – Carol Phillips and Jan Hines; Unbadged Singles – Jan Hines; Unbadged Pairs – Jane Ogg and Jan Hines. Men’s winners were: 2-wood Singles – Paul Weeks; Over 55 Rinks – Paul Cockman, Richard Hines, Andrew Galloway and Andy Ralph; Unbadged Triples – Wayne Hendy, Fred Niven and Colin Sowden; Mixed Pairs – Karen and Andrew Galloway.

All of these winners qualified for the county knockout stages against the other seven area winners and still competing are the Ladies Over 55 pairs and Unbadged Pairs and the Men’s Unbadged Triples.

The club’s other achievements were the ladies reaching the quarter finals of the county interclub competition and the ladies 2-wood triples team in the area final. The ladies won the North Devon Triples Champion of Champions final and have still to play the final of the 86 Top Club final. The men reached the area final of the Top Club competition.

The club held its finals day on Saturday 3rd September and the winners were: Ladies: Kent Cup (singles champion) – Jan Hines; Walsh Cup (2-wood singles) – Jan Hines; Edyvean Cup (handicap singles) – Jane Ogg; Darch Cup (over 60s singles) – Christina Payne; Gould Trophy (pairs) – Janice Piper and Elaine Clements. Men: Long Cup (singles champion) – Paul Weeks; Hodge Cup (2-wood singles) – Paul Weeks; Wilson Cup (handicap singles) – Mike Bayliss; Waldron Cup (over 65s singles) – Fred Niven; Quick Cup (pairs) – Alan Toogood and Colin Sowden; Mixed Pairs Cup – Elaine Clements and Andy Ralph.

Fred Niven Vice Chairman

Great Torrington Bowling Club (Estb.1645) held on

Torrington Celebrates 50 Years of Pride in the UK

Sunrise Diversity and the Plough Arts Centre hosted a film night and exhibition to celebrate 50 years of UK Pride.

The event was well received and enjoyed, which demonstrates the support and solidarity for people from the LGBTQ+ community, in Torrington and across Northern Devon.

The exhibition detailed the progress made towards acceptance and inclusion across five decades, whilst recognising pivotal milestones, significant challenges and the discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

Two films were screened: firstly the 2019 documentary ‘Are you Proud’, which used archive materials together with interviews from leading campaigners to portray a moving account of the historical context and the lived experience of people from the LGBTQ+ community.

The second film, ‘Stonewall Forever’, was a short documentary about the past, present and future of Pride.

Sunrise Diversity works across Northern Devon to celebrate diversity, challenge discrimination and change attitudes. If any organisations in Torrington would like to host the 50year exhibition or find out more about what we do: please get in touch with us at admin@sunrisediversity.org.uk. Find out more about us by visiting www. sunrisediversity.org.uk or on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @SunriseDevon

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Blackberry Farm Shop

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Commons News

Thehottest, driest summer on record has given the Commons a challenging time. Many of our trees have suffered from drought stress, as have the meadows. The river and streams have been as low as anyone can recall. I am hoping that by the time you read this we will have had some proper rain, and that things will be starting to recover.

We have received the final species list from our BioBlitz – a snapshot of the plants and animals to be found over a few days. 577 separate species, of which 55 are classed as listed, some being very rare and highly protected. The full list will be put on the torringtoncommons.org website. This is only a sample of the full biodiversity to be found on the Commons, but a hugely encouraging indication that our management methods are allowing a wide range of species to thrive.

The dry weather has been good for our fundraising – we have had some record breaking car boot sales, both in terms of numbers of sellers attending and sales through our own secondhand book stall. The sales continued on Sunday mornings throughout September and we intend to start earlier next year. If April is warm and dry again, we will start to run the sales from then instead of waiting for May.

Less good news has been the damage caused to the newly refurbished picnic benches on Castle Hill, and to the new equipment in the play park. I very much doubt the perpetrators are regular readers of the Crier, so I will not go on. Thank you to everyone who reports issues to us. The quickest method is generally via Facebook messenger, but you can also email either me or Kim, our clerk: clerk@ torringtoncommons.org.

We are keen to recruit some more members of the Commons Conservators, helping to maintain and protect the Commons. We are a small, friendly group with diverse interests and backgrounds, some retired, some working full time. Please drop us a line if you would be interested in getting involved in this very rewarding group. We can use all kinds of skills: from physical maintenance work to administrative expertise to cake baking, but the main requirement is a love of the Commons.

Mandy Harrison, chair@torringtoncommons.org

Know Someone Who Struggles to Read?

R Easy provides free and for can learn to or their reading at their own pace and without pressure. It's friendly, flexible and

To find out more contact: 07942 377 377. Readesay.org.uk

Drain CCTV Tank Treatment

Drain clearing Treatment

Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251

1st Torrington Scouts

The Scouts have been enjoying their summer holidays but, before that we enjoyed a summer camp at the Clinton Hall, Merton. 1st Torrington Scouts were joined by 1st Woolsery Scouts. The Scouts completed a wide range of activities including a water fight, a neon party and even made their own afternoon tea. Both groups had lots of fun and look forward to joining together in the future.

All three sections had the privilege to attend the Mayor’s Civic Service at the end of the summer. It was a lovely service and they took part in the parade through town.

The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are all looking forward to coming back to scouting after the summer with lots of exciting things planned.

Beavers - Monday evenings 6.30 to 7.15pm. Every other week Scouts - Monday evening 7.30pm to 9pm Cubs - Tuesday 6pm to 7.30pm

We urgently need help at Beavers, Cubs and Scouts if you’re willing to spare a couple hours here and there contact our Group Scout Leader Jordon Whitear on jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

Sit Awhile & Rest… Baptist Church has placed a seat on the forecourt of the church to commemorate the Queen's Jubilee, we would like this seat to be used by any member of the public who wants to sit awhile and rest.

Autumn Tips from Samantha Hardwick

Autumnis one of my favourite seasons; when we can enjoy woodland walks, watch the leaves on the trees changing colour, eat warming comfort food, layer up in cosy jumpers and blankets along with warm fires and hot chocolate. My inner child comes out to play when the leaves are on the ground, still enjoying making piles and jumping in them or just kicking them up.

It is a time when we can start to retreat like nature, but this year more than ever we need to look out for each other, to come together and support one another during the ever rising costs, checking in with friends and neighbours – reaching out to others.

We also need to look at ways to support our immune system, as during times of stress and anxiety it is compromised – self-care is one of those ways and here are some ideas for you:

* Eat plenty of vegetables, especially ones which are high in Vitamin C, like red bell pepper, garlic, ginger and spinach, increase your intake of fruit.

* Drink plenty of water to help flush out the toxins and to keep you hydrated.

* Take supplements of Vitamin C and D, we are all lacking in Vitamin D especially during the winter months and need to take supplements.

* Ensure you are getting enough sleep. Our bodies repair whilst we sleep.

* Practicing gratitude – research shows that gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with our greater happiness. Gratitude helps us to feel more positive

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

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

Picture Framing Course with Black Dog Framing Come

along to the Black Dog Framing workshop for a Picture Framing Course. Book your framing experience and learn how to create your very own bespoke picture frame for your own piece of artwork. No prior experience is necessary.

Each course lasts approximately three hours and costs £95 per person. We include all aspects of the frame construction; from the initial design, the framing materials required and tuition needed to ensure that you leave with your own artwork in your own picture frame. Refreshments are also provided.

The course will include the selection of materials e.g. the mount board, the moulding (limited in size to 2.5 cm wide for the purposes of the course), the glazing material, backboards, tapes, fittings and hanging supplies. We will cover the methods of mount cutting (single window mount for the purposes of the course), glass cutting, the fitting of the artwork within the frame, cutting mitres, mire gluing, underpinning and sealing and hanging.

All we ask is that your selected print, or picture is no larger than approximately 30 x 30 cm (12" x12").

To book call: 01805 601777.

emotions, relish good experiences, improve our health, deal with adversity better and build strong relationships. Start by thinking of three things you are grateful for, no matter how small, can be as simply as the bed you sleep in, the beauty of nature, friends etc.

* Breathe - just breathe! Place your

hands on your heart breathe in for six and breathe out for six several times, tapping into your parasympathetic system to calm your body and mind.

Wishing you all well during these winter months and remember this too shall pass and I hope you find these tips helpful.

Black

From Your County Councillor…

Ihope

all readers of the Crier were able to enjoy summer this year, despite the heatwave! It does seem as though we are going to have to get used to more extreme and changeable weather conditions, though I am sure we will be able to cope despite the challenges.

Normally reporting back after the summer months it would be fairly quiet, but at Devon County Council this summer has been different. As we head into the autumn it is clear we are heading into an extremely challenging time as a country, as we face the headwinds of the aftershocks of the pandemic and the fallout from the war in Ukraine, both of which have exacerbated the cost-ofliving crisis that the western World is now facing.

Local government is not excluded from these challenges and over the summer months it has become clear that our budgets at DCC are going to come under severe pressure. The costs of running council services have risen significantly with inflation and the cost of living crisis is starting to bite.

Over the summer it became clear that if DCC took no action on spending between now and the end of the financial year, we would be facing a potential overspend of over £30 million on our budgets. On top of that, inflationary pressures would add a further £10 million cost on top of those budgets. The Budget for 2022 was originally drafted at the

end of 2021, before the war in Ukraine, before the rise in fuel prices, before the spike in inflation.

While the Council does have reserves that can offset some of the projected overspend, to do nothing simply isn’t an option and would ultimately see the Council put in a financially unviable position either next year or the year after.

So, over the summer a huge amount of work has been undertaken, scrutinising every budget and reviewing every contract. This work is still ongoing, but already at the time of writing the projected overspend has been slashed by £18.6 million through stopping or postponing projects, ending contracts and reduced spending on non-essential services. To give an example, the County Council was able to renegotiate its mobile phone contract and has saved nearly half a million pounds alone.

Alongside this financial work, we are also looking at how we can change and deliver services differently. Generally speaking, DCC has been a very traditional organisation that delivers services in a traditional way. A person wishing to access social care support for example, must go through numerous assessments, which take time, and during which that person doesn’t get any support. A pilot project that was run just before the pandemic in the Torridge and North Devon area stripped out those assessments and instead would send a member of staff in to see people and directly assess their needs. Not only did it generate financial savings, but it also actually delivered a better service as people’s needs were seen to far more

quickly and effectively than going through the usual bureaucratic assessments. This and other projects, which got put on the back burner due to the pandemic, are being revisited and my hope is that while these are challenging times, we will ultimately come through this.

While these are difficult times, both for us as families and individuals, and for the County Council, I want to assure readers that the County Council will still continue to do all that it can to protect those in need. As ever, I am here to help and if there are any DCC issues you’d like to raise, you can contact me on Facebook facebook.com/cllrsaywell, ring 07886 446 560 or email andrew.saywell@devon. gov.uk.

The Great Torrington Community Hospital League of Friends Christmas Coffee Morning

Saturday December 10th 9.30am12.30pm

Your local League of Friends extend a warm welcome and hope you will support us at our coffee morning and meet the Committee. Enjoy a coffee and a mince pie. There will also be raffle and some items for sale to tempt you! All proceeds raised are used to help the League purchase equipment for the Hospital Hub and nursing staff out in the Community.

Anne Ayre, Chair

A Bear Hunt in North Devon

NorthDevon is set to host a colourful ‘Bear Hunt’ public art sculpture trail this autumn.

Local artists are currently decorating 25 individual five-foot-tall bears that will form a series of mini trails in around

Citizens’ Advice – Cost of Living Crisis

There cannot be a single person who has not had a conversation about the cost of living crisis, which seems to be escalating at an alarming rate, and this month’s question is typical of the thousands of requests we get each month asking for help and advice.

“The cost of energy and food is so high now. With the kids having been home from school for the summer, I’ve had to pay more for lunches and snacks. I’m worried about how I’ll put food on the table. I’m on a prepayment meter and I’m really scared we’re going to be left without any gas or electric if I can’t top up. What can I do?”

As a prepayment meter customer, your energy supplier will be able to give you temporary credit if you can’t afford to top up your meter. They might add this to your meter automatically, but if they don’t, you can call them and ask them to do this.

If you run out of temporary credit, speak to your supplier and explain your situation. They may give you extra temporary credit if you are struggling with living costs. If you’re disabled, have a long term health condition or you have children under 5 you may also qualify to get extra credit. You’ll have to pay back anything extra you get, but you can agree how to do this in a way you can afford.

CA TNMWD is working with Devon County Council to manage an Energy Relief Scheme and it could be that you qualify for fuel vouchers. We also have a specially trained Energy Advice Team who will provide free, confidential and informed advice. Either visit www.ruraldevoncab.org.uk click on ‘Get Advice’ then go to the Energy tab. Alternatively, ring our free, local Advice Line on 0808 27 87 999. You may like to consider having a smart meter installed (at no cost to you) and this is something else our team can advise on.

At the time of going to print, there is more government support coming in October to help with energy bills, including a £400 payment. With a prepayment meter you will be given vouchers in the first week of each month from October

The Bear Hunt art trail will run throughout September and October in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

The charity, which runs three children’s hospices, including Little Bridge House in Fremington near Barnstaple, has joined forces with The Art of Fundraising to deliver the project.

As well as helping to raise the profile of the hospice, it is hoped that the trail will also bring significant footfall and economic benefit to the host locations and surrounding areas.

CHSW Bear Hunt project coordinator Kate Romo said: “We’re really looking forward to seeing how all the artists choose to decorate their bears and can’t wait to see them form such a fun trail for people to follow in and around beautiful North Devon. We hope it will be hugely popular with both locals and visitors, who as well as being able to discover these wonderful pieces of bear art, will also be able to enjoy visiting the towns and

If you pay council tax and are in bands A-D you may have already received a payment of £150 which is being automatically credited by local councils. If you haven’t and you qualify, check out your council’s website.

You may find it useful to check out www.citizensadvice.org.uk where we have benefits calculators you can use online to assess whether you are eligible to claim anything and there is also advice on how to reduce living costs and other ways to increase your income.

At CA TNMWD we can also help you get a referral for a food bank voucher. You are by no means the only person in your situation so just reach out to us for help. www.ruraldevoncab.org.uk or 0808 27 87 999.

If you are reading this and thinking that you would like to be able to help people like this, email recruitment@ruraldevoncab.org.uk and find out about volunteering opportunities with us. We give ongoing training and support and you would be helping us to meet the ever increasing demands on our services!

villages in which they are located.”

Among the artists taking part are Phil Creek from Ottery St Mary; Mau Mau from Barnstaple; John Hurford from Chulmleigh; Kathy Nettles from Holsworthy; Sally Rich from Exmouth; Jenny Pymont from Paignton; and Jo Brown from Teignmouth. There will also be a number of artist-celebrity collaborations, with former England and Somerset county cricketer Marcus Trescothick, and jockey Tom Scudamore,

among those set to get creative.

“It’s going to be wonderful to see the personalities and styles of all the artists reflected in the bears,” added Kate.

“There will be a special trail app launching soon to help people track down all the bears and learn more about the artists and the work of CHSW.”

For more information, visit www. chswbearhunt.org.

Barnstaple, Bideford, Torrington, Ilfracombe and South Molton.

Petrockstowe Community Church Grand Jigsaw Festival

Saturday 15th October 10am-4pm Baxter Hall, Petrockstowe, EX20 3HQ

Over 400 jigsaws made up as pictures displayed as an art gallery. All jigsaws will be for sale at very reasonable prices or just come and enjoy the spectacular display. Refreshments and a raffle.

Come and join the fun, entrance £1.

Raising money for Petrockstowe Community Church.

Great Torrington Commons 365 Supporters Group

TheGreat Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group continues to grow and the funds raised are making a massive difference in helping us to look after the Commons.

We have a unique resource here with the Commons, and every town in the country would love a space like this near them. Most of us are either a short walk or drive away, and once you are there you can enjoy nature at its best. There are currently six Conservators which means that we are short of our maximum amount of fifteen. If you would like some information about becoming a Conservator please contact the clerk by email clerk@torringtoncommons.org or telephone 01805 462463 you may need to leave a message but we will get back to you.

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

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

Our rangers are out every day working to keep the Commons in the best condition possible. The gates are now closed for the winter, but you can stop for a burger or a drink and the all-important toilets. Autumn is a great time to explore the Tree Trail. You can buy a copy for £1 from the Post Office, the Tourist Information Centre, Collectability, Whiskers Pet shop, Greedy’s Burger van or the Puffing Billy. The trail starts and finishes at the Old Bowling Green. It is a great walk and very educational.

The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per month or a £24 annual donation which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer. You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to you.

Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple:

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

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

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

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

The Old Bowling Green

The car boot season has ended now for this year and we have had our best year ever. Our stall raised £2,550 which is amazing. Thank you to all our customers for buying from us and to all the people that donated the stock to us. We will be looking for opportunities to open during the winter.

We have decided to start next year’s car boot sales on Sunday April 2nd, which is a month earlier than normal. The weather in April this year was great and we can only hope it will be the same for 2023.

I am still collecting items such as books, CDs and DVDs so please get in touch if you would like me to come and collect them from you. During July we had a great donation of 24 bottles of wine and 12 bottles of beer. A big thank you to Mr and Mrs Thompson for your generosity. If you have any spare bottles of wine that you could donate we would be very pleased. We have a very popular stall called ‘Water, Wine or maybe Cider’.

You can contact me on 07956 366 390, or email vicechair@ torringtoncommons.org.

Every penny is used to help us maintain, improve, and protect the Commons.

Andrew Giles Vice Chair Great Torrington Commons Conservators

Goose Green

‘Goose Green’ traditionally referred to a village green or piece of common land where people could graze their animals (pigs, geese or ducks), as long as they didn’t let them stray onto the streets or interfere with the markets. The eastern end of Calf Street is still known as Goose Green.

In 1907 a piece of land at Goose Green was given by Mark Rolle, Lord of the Manor, to be used as a hospital for the benefit of poor people in Torrington and district 'suffering from accident or non-infectious disease who cannot be properly attended to in their own home.'

Towards the end of the nineteenth century, St Gabriel’s mission church stood on land between the site of the future hospital and a house thought to have once been a toll house. The prefabricated church was made of iron and affectionately known as the ‘tin tabernacle’ before it was dismantled and re-erected in Westward Ho! where it ended up as a café.

In January 1919 Herbert Baker, who had a timber felling and haulage business, bought the site of the old mission church for the sum of £28 2s 0d. He wanted his son, Richard (known as Reg), to be able to set up in a mechanical job and build a garage. They created a shop on the left side of the garage, under the same roof, which was run by Herbert’s wife, Ruth, and sold local produce. This also served as an office for the garage.

Reg Baker was called up to fight in the Second World War on 3rd September 1939, at nearly 40 years of age. At first, he was able to do his army training as well as run his garage but, when he was moved up north, he was obliged to sell his garage in early 1941 and it was bought by Alex Overton, who lived opposite. Reg served with the 142nd Field Regiment Royal Artillery as a Staff Sergeant fitter, because of his previous garage skills. He and his men were responsible for maintaining the regiment’s transport as they travelled through North Africa, the Middle East and Italy. They endured many hardships and horrors and Reg described his experiences in a fascinating diary, written in ink in a clear, neat hand, which is now in the possession of his grandson, Ken Stacey. When he came home from the war in August 1945, Reg had no garage to come back to and worked as caretaker at the drill hall in Fore Street. He also set up a milk delivery round from a farm at Langridgeford. The milk was in churns and Reg would measure it off in small tin cans.

During the war, various British and American regiments were stationed in and around Torrington at different times. The Americans commandeered Goose Green garage to service their vehicles, some of which were too tall to get inside the low building, so they worked out in the street. Elderly men in Torrington, who were young boys at that time, remember stopping on their way to school to watch the Americans at work and say it was the first time they had ever seen welding being done.

Herbert Baker & Son became Goose Green garage, owned by Alex Overton, and then Morton garage, named after its owners, Morley Huxtable and Tony Elston. The site of the garage and the area behind is now a housing development known as Torrington Gate.

Moira Brewer

Wellness Event

Earlier

this year Rachel of Infinite Flow and Emma of SaltwaterGaia organised their first collaborative wellness event, Gaia Flow, in aid of Encompass Southwest. Thanks to everyone who supported the event they were able to pass on a cheque to our chosen charity for £651.80!

The second Gaia Flow Charity

Wellness Event will open from 10am5pm on Sunday 9th October at The Kingsley Hall in Westward Ho!

As well as respected local therapists and readers, there will be a wealth of small business stands to support your wellness and get a start on gift shopping. The proceeds from the café, with homemade goodies and a raffle, will also go to supporting Encompass. Further information can be found at the Gaia Flow Facebook page or by contacting the organisers.

All are welcome at this event, entry is free. We recommend you park in the village and make the short walk to the venue. Emms Lowe 07930 410 302, saltwatergaia.com

Beeline for Digital Skills

On this short Learn Devon beginners’ course, you will learn how to stay safe online; how to communicate online using email, Word, and video communication software (Zoom); handle information and content by saving and organising files and web pages; practice online transactions that will allow you to access goods and services (shopping, NHS, travel information) and practice problem solving skills using online resources.

The course will run on Thursdays from 22 Sep 2022 to 20 Oct 11am to 1pm in Torrington Town and Community Hall. It is free.

To enrol, or for more information, look for ITC505 on our website www. learndevon.co.uk or email bideford@ learndevon.co.uk or call 01237 472462.

Learn Devon hopes to run a follow-on course EDSQ Entry 3 after the end of this short course. SonDafforn

Property Market Musings

So,the new Conservative leader and Prime Minister Liz Truss has been appointed and is now residing in No.10. We have a new housing minister, Simon Clarke, or to give him the correct title, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. This is a very wide ranging post, and it did not take long for commentators to give their own opinions as to what should be done, by whom, done where, in what timescale and at what cost.

This all sounds a lot like what we, as agents, get asked when we are visiting a potential landlord or homeowner. They are fair questions that should be asked and as agents we must be in a position to answer these fairly and squarely, along with some other salient ones. It is important to understand what an agent is putting on the table to promote your property, who are the key people involved and what the journey is going to be like to obtain the required result. It is not all about high price and low fee. It should be making sure the result is delivered to achieve the best for the client, not the outcome that suits the agent’s bottom line. Appointing an agent can be likened to which supermarket to shop in. They all deliver an experience but, is it the experience you want to be part of over a period of months, and will you be able to tell your friends and colleagues you feel the agent is a trusted adviser?

The summer has been a far stronger market than one would normally expect, with holidays and the normal goings on for a July and August period happening. Sales were up, property coming to the market was up, rental demand continued to outstrip supply. We took on a property that had been with another agent for over nine months and from the moment the buyers we introduced to it, saw the house to completing and moving in after 23 days! A rarity but it shows the transaction period can be pushed through quickly if all parties work together as problem solvers, not problem creators.

Lurking in the background is a whole load of economic data that may mean the end of the year will be a challenge on so many fronts. Only time will tell. However, if the government does freeze, no pun intended, energy prices and reduce VAT this could all change ever so quickly and the market could well stay strong for the rest of the year and into 2023. The press is all over the place on thoughts and ideas as to what is happening, going to happen and it is hard for any of us to predict.

For now, there is a good and interesting stock of properties coming to both the sales and rental market with motivated vendors and landlords alike, so it is business as usual and in the words of Lance Corporal Jones in the 70s comedy Dad’s Army, ‘Don’t panic Mr. Mainwaring’.

Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director

TAAC Christmas Caper 2022 18th December ‘22

Whatcould be a better way to make room for Christmas dinner than running in Torrington’s biggest race of the year, in fact a previous winner of Devon’s Race of the Year, the Christmas Caper!

Taking place on the last Sunday before Christmas as per tradition, the roughly nine-mile course offers plenty of mud, hills, river bank, fancy dress, forest trails and splendid views of our town and surrounds. It’s a challenging race, but we can almost guarantee you’ll finish with a smile on your face! If not, a Christmas pudding for all finishers will definitely get you over the line.

There will be prizes for top three finishers in various categories and also a prize for the best fancy dress.

We’ve seen a steady increase in runners over the years, often selling out as we did in 2021, so don’t hesitate before going for it if you’re interested.

The race starts at 11am on December 18th at Torrington Rugby Club, with registration from 9.30am. Parking will not be possible on site but there will be plenty nearby. Entries will not be possible on the day and are online only. Please see our Facebook page or website for details and how to enter: www.facebook.com/ TorringtonAmateurAthleticsClub; www. torringtonaac.co.uk/christmas-caper.

If you’re interested in running and keeping fit, we offer weekly club sessions and other events throughout the year. Please email torringtonathleticsclub@ gmail.com for details. Nick @ TAAC

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN

Your Council, Working for YOU

From Your Mayor…

The soaring temperatures contributed to our record-breaking heatwave. We had BBQs galore during the early part of the summer, and thanks to everyone for heeding the fire warnings.

Over the summer I was privileged to visit Ellie Allin as she celebrated her 100th birthday. Ellie was very gracious when we met, surrounded by family and friends, and certainly held court on a very hot and memorable day!

Christabel Palmer also celebrated her 100th birthday, but unfortunately when the time came, I was unable to visit due to Covid restrictions. However, I was very pleased to send her my good wishes along with a bouquet of flowers. I trust both ladies enjoyed their special day and I am thankful for being invited to join them.

We sadly lost a former four times Mayor, John Kelly, in early August. After a service at the crematorium John was given a very heartfelt send-off at the Social Club, where we were regaled by stories of John’s own sendings off whilst a football referee (including the time when he almost ‘red carded’ his own son!). We did our best to make a dent in the buns and cakes! The town gives thanks to John, one of our greats.

Citizen Science Core Group Sass is being promoted shortly to assess and monitor the health of our rivers and watercourses. We are hoping to encourage young and old to take simple samples from rivers and streams, and enter the results on a worldwide database

I was pleased to attend Tarka Valley

Railway’s 150th anniversary open day, which saw me riding from Torrington Station to Bideford behind John Puddy’s steam traction engine! That certainly was an experience I will not easily forget.

The open day was hugely successful, and the weather played its part in attracting a great crowd to enjoy the demonstrations and talks, as well as being entertained by our silver band.

The Bideford Regatta on 3rd September was a great event. Strong winds made the course tricky for some novices, but encouragement from the riverbanks was order of the day.

This year’s Mayor’s Parade and Civic Service on 4th September drew a good crowd as we marched in procession from the council offices to the Methodist Church in Mill Street. My thanks go to all who participated, including our Town Council staff who organised the event, our silver band for their input and the cadets who paraded perfectly.

Special thanks to Rev. Rob Blackhall for conducting the service and Lance Corporal Roy, my Mayor’s Cadet, without whose assistance on the day my job would have been so much more difficult. The catering in the Methodist Church Hall was fantastic: our thanks as ever to the ladies for the glorious spread.

Six months on in the Ukrainian War, please continue to remember and support those displaced citizens who need us so desperately.

Now we have come through the summer heatwaves, droughts, fires etc., our minds are turning to autumn and even, dare I say…Christmas? Let’s hope the financial issues we are all about to face lessen with time.

Enjoy the next season in our glorious town.

Cllr Doug Smith, Mayor of Great Torrington

Opportunity for Voluntary Role Holder (Macebearer) at the Town Council

Wecurrently have a vacancy for the role of Macebearer to the Town Council. This role is undertaken on a voluntary basis, with a small honorarium paid. A brief explanation of duties is set out below, but please contact the Town Council if you would like further information, or would like to discuss further.

A Mace Bearer accompanies the Town’s Mayor to civic events to ensure that the Mayor has ‘free passage’ of the town. The events are currently, May Fair, the Mayor’s Civic Ceremony and the Remembrance Parade and Service. The Mace Bearer will carry a mace whilst on duty and a uniform will be provided. The Council currently has one Mace Bearer and is seeking to appoint a second.

Please can you provide a written application to include why you think you would be suitable for the role. Applications for this post should be no more than one side of A4 paper.

For further information or to discuss further please contact the Town Clerk on 01805 626135 or by email admin@ great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Please forward applications to Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Great Torrington, EX38 8AA or by email to admin@great-torringtontowncouncil. gov.uk, to be received no later than Friday 28th October 2022.

Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

Recovering, and full re-upholstery of antique, modern and automotive furniture. QUOTES

Moore-Stevens Hall for Hire

Peters Marland, 4 miles from Great Torrington

Our hall provides a lovely environment for smaller gatherings, suitable for fitness classes, children’s parties, fundraising events, coffee mornings, meetings, training & community events.

Capacity for 60 people seated. Wifi, projector & large screen, separate kitchen area. Disabled access & WC, EX38 8QG.

To book the hall please contact Mrs Pittman on 01805 601892. Hire cost from £7.50 per hour.

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service

13th November 2022

This year Remembrance Sunday falls on the 13th November 2022. The Royal British Legion will once again hold a Remembrance Ceremony at the War Memorial in the Cemetery, commencing at 10.50am.

There will be some significant changes this year.

1. The Parade Route: The Parade will form at the Old Bowling Green and parade ‘UP’ New Street to the Cemetery.

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

3. Standard Practice: Will move from the Pannier Market to the Town’s Band room in Castle Street. Further information will be sent to individual organisations nearer the time.

Ordering of wreaths will be the same as last year and should be ordered direct from the Royal British Legion in plenty of time. A wreath can be ordered by contacting the Royal British Legion on 0345 845 1945. The wreath will be posted out to you.

Karen Chapman (Town Clerk)

New Councillor

TheTown Council is very pleased to announce that Bruce Callaghan-Martin was voted in as the newest councillor at the September Council meeting. Cllr Callaghan-Martin is well known throughout the community of Great Torrington, having lived in the town for 17 of the last 25 years. During this time, he has been involved in various community activities and currently has a business in the town.

Cllr Callaghan-Martin said; “I feel extremely honoured to have been accepted onto Great Torrington Town Council and will strive to act in the very best interest of Great Torrington and its residents at all times. Becoming a councillor gives me a deep sense of pride and I look forward to working with the Mayor and the other councillors for the benefit of our beautiful historic town and our lovely community”. The Town Council is very happy to welcome Cllr Callaghan-Martin and looks forward to working together in the future.

Vacancy for a Town Beadle

TheGreat Torrington Town Council helps to keep the traditions of the town alive. One of the traditions is to have a Beadle, Town Crier and Mace Bearers to support the Council at various functions. The position of Beadle has recently become available.

Duties include accompanying the Mayor to various functions as well as taking part in events within the town.

A Beadle must have a car and be willing to drive the Mayor and Mayoress/ Consort to functions etc. The Beadle is provided with a mileage allowance, a small honorarium plus a uniform.

Some duties will involve evening and weekend work. This vacancy is open to both men and women.

Please can you provide a written application to include why you think you would be suitable for the role. Applications for this post should be no more than one side of A4 paper.

For further information or to discuss further please contact the Town Clerk on 01805 626135 or by email admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Please forward applications to Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill, Great Torrington, EX38 8AA or by email to admin@great-torringtontowncouncil. gov.uk, to be received no later than Friday 28th October 2022.

Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

Great Torrington Town Council Partnership to Tackle Anti-Social Behaviour

During

July, and in response to a spate of anti-social behaviour and criminal activity, the Town Council facilitated a meeting between the Mayor, district councillors, Great Torrington School, the Police, Fire Service and Torridge District Council’s Environmental Team to discuss the recent activity and establish if there is a way to work together.

Various issues were discussed at the meeting and a couple of initial outcomes include an agreement for the group to meet on a periodical basis to work collaboratively within the community. The group is also looking at increased publicity around reporting anti-social/criminal activity. Further information will be made available in the near future.

Torrington Silver Band Concert

2022is an important year for Torrington Silver Band as it marks 70 years since the band began back in 1952. To celebrate this special occasion, we will be hosting a celebratory concert on Saturday 8th October, where we will be joined by players past and present.

We welcome you to join us at Howe Concert Hall for this special evening, where we will be performing a repertoire of pieces that are significant to the history of the band. It is not to be missed!

As always there will be a raffle with some fantastic prizes and refreshments during the interval. Doors will open at 7pm and the concert will begin at 7:30pm. Tickets will be available on the door at £5; entry for under 16s free.

Little Torrington WI

Ourreturn after the summer break was an activity-based archery demonstration. Supervised by our lady president Jen and her husband Peter Hood and all members participated in shooting. October’s meeting is a talk to be given by Alexis Swain, ‘Living with Ducks’.

The ladies that lunch visited the Old Farmhouse Kitchen in September, next month’s venue to be arranged for the third Wednesday in October. The book group are currently reading Wilbur Smith, Hero of the Nile, meeting on the third Monday of the month.

Other activities in September included several members participating in the North Devon Hospice Night Walk. On the 26th September there will be bulb planting around Little Torrington village to commemorate WI day. Tea and cake in the village hall after. On a similar theme the WI will host a MacMillan coffee morning on Friday 30th September 10.30am-12.30pm in the village hall. There will be tea, coffee, cake aplenty and a raffle. Bring a friend or three!

For more information please find us on Facebook or contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.

An Invitation From Winkleigh Morris Winkleigh

Morris was started in 1990 by the landlady of the former Winkleigh Hotel. Since then the mixed Morris team has performed Cotswold and Border style dances, not only in its local area, but at festivals and events all over the UK, and in the Channel Islands, France, Holland and Germany.

Originally, almost all the dancers lived in or near Winkleigh, but now our dancers are drawn from a much wider area – as far as Lustleigh to the South, Torrington to the West, Chittlehampton to the North and Morchard Bishop to the East. We even have one original member who still travels regularly from her home near Wells, in Somerset!

We are a very friendly and sociable group. We meet from October to April on Tuesday evenings at Winkleigh Community Centre from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. All are welcome – no previous experience is necessary. We are also willing to run workshops for schools, youth groups, WIs, U3A, etc.

For more information contact me at bonnygreencolin@gmail.com, call 01363 877216 or see our website www.winkleighmorris.org.uk. We look forward to seeing you in October!

Colin Andrews, Foreman, Winkleigh Morris

Bideford District Photography Group

The group is looking forward to our autumn/winter programme, with meetings most Tuesday evenings – 7.30pm at the Blue Lights Hall, Appledore. There will be technical workshops, fascinating talks, competitions and lots of social interactions.

Upcoming highlights include the following talks:

Oct 18 “The Quest and Beyond” by John Hudson

Nov 15 “Competition Photography – How to go About it” - George Reekie

We can also look back over our summer activities and review lots of Tuesday evening trips, alongside away-days to Topsham, Stover Country Park and Valley of Rocks, to mention just a few. These trips spawned lots of pictures to view and review, and it is to be hoped that they will provide lots of successful competition entries.

We can also reflect on the curation of our first print exhibition in many years and can be gratified by the high numbers of visitors, which exceeded our best expectations. The high quality of the exhibits was a great testament to the excellent work being produced by the membership.

Anyone wishing to come along is welcome, please come over and make yourself known to one of the members, talks open to non-members for a small charge.

For further information email Tim sanderst99@gmail.com or enquiries@ bidefordcameraclub.co.uk, or visit bidefordcameraclub.co.uk.

Abbeyfield

Our residents have enjoyed using the new summerhouse and the garden is looking very colourful, thanks to our gardener, Julie.

The open morning in July was enjoyed by those who came and we hope to hold regular ‘coffee, cake and chat’ mornings on the third Friday of each month, from 10.30 -12 noon. The October one will be on Friday the 21st. It would be appreciated if you will take a lateral flow test, before coming, to comply with the Abbeyfield regulations. Our residents will welcome anyone who might like some company, as well as old friends.

We have a vacant room and this would be a great opportunity, if you or a loved one, would like to find out more about Abbeyfield. Alternatively, you can contact the House Manager on 01805 623605 for more information.

Torrington & District Historical Society

This beautiful watercolour was sent in by Keith Wharton. It was his entry for the Beaford Autumn Show, which - at the time of going to print - was yet to take place.

Our programme of autumn activities has got off to a great start, with a coffee morning at the History Alive event and the first of our monthly talks in September. We are looking forward to Monday 10th October when we will be inviting Peter Christie to talk about The Church, Sex and Slander during Elizabethan Times in North Devon. Something different! Anyone is welcome to attend; you just need to be curious about history. We meet at the Methodist Hall in Mill Street and you are welcome to come along from 7pm onwards for a cup of coffee and a natter, and to find out more about our group. The talks start at 7.30pm. Visitors £3 and if you enjoy the evening you are welcome to become a member. If you would like to know more contact Pauline on 01805 630089, pallen123@btinternet. com or have a look at our Facebook page - Torrington and District Historical Society.

Bideford District Photography Group

Maggi Rogers

From Your District Councillors…

We hope you’ve had a good summer and enjoyed some of the sunshine, although I think most of us were grateful when the rain eventually came, especially within the farming community where we’ve struggled with the lack of water and lack of grass for the livestock.

At our September full council meeting we heard some very depressing reports, and the council is tasked at deciding on some options to reduce our financial deficit. We received a report from the member budget working group which had put forward recommendations. Unfortunately, some of these suggestions included increasing parking charges across the whole district and reducing councillor community grants, which are so important to local community groups within our individual wards. As your councillors (Cottle-Hunkin and Bright), we voted against and abstained from these votes, however, we do recognise the extremely difficult situation that the council faces.

A huge cause of the financial deficit is the housing crisis here in Torridge. We heard that here there has been a 70% decrease in privately owned rental properties in the last two years, and rents

are also increasingly unaffordable. We are seeing a huge increase in people at risk of homelessness, and the council has a statutory obligation to place these individuals and families into temporary accommodation. There has also been an increased cost to the council in providing this accommodation, but no increase in funding from central government. As a result, the overall projected cost to the council in meeting these obligations in 2022/23 exceeds £1million.

The need for affordable housing and affordable rent to meet local need is very clear, as well as the council’s need for increased funding from central government.

There is a report going to the C&R committee next week to consider leasing the redundant tennis courts in Torrington to the football club. It would be a longterm lease to enable the club to secure grant funding to transform the area into a multi-use sports area, which could be used by both the football club and the rest of the community. The courts at present are dilapidated and a magnet for antisocial behaviour. We are largely supportive of the proposals, as long as the agreement allows for at least two courts to be available to be used for tennis.

After having requested over many years for the cemetery gates to be prepped and painted, and continuously being told that it is ‘on the list’, we finally have some positive news that this is now being looked at with contractors. We really hope that this will take place very soon, as they really are in a very sorry state and have needed attention for years.

We have been receiving complaints of concern over crime and antisocial behaviour in the town. We have been working together with the town council, who have set up a new collaborative working group which includes both town and district councils, fire and police services and Great Torrington School, which is meeting regularly at GTS to address issues in a joined up approach.

Finally, we’re so pleased to be receiving positive reports from local residents that the service at the swimming pool is much better than under the previous operator 1610. We have been hearing feedback from people who are really happy to have the pool back and we are glad to hear that attendance at the classes is really good. It’s cleaner, and staff are more attentive. Please do support the pool and pop in for a swim sometime, no booking required!

Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Cllr.cottlehunkin@torridge.gov.uk, 07495 367 801 Cllr Chris Bright, Councillor.bright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909

"A huge cause of the financial deficit is the housing crisis here in Torridge. We heard that here there has been a 70% decrease in privately owned rental properties in the last two years..."

Torrington RFC Rugby

returned to Donnacroft on September 3rd after an absence of way too long.

Late August saw us visit our old rivals South Molton. This was a game being played for The Dicky Cawthorne Trophy. As previously mentioned, Dicky was President of both Torrington and South Molton many years ago. On his death his will provided for both clubs. It was therefore decided to instigate a trophy game in his honour.

Having had to cancel the first warm up match between Torrington u30s v Torrington over 30s, we went into the game a little rusty. Despite Torrington holding strong for around 60 minutes, Molton surged in the scoring coming out 33-3 victors, retaining the trophy for another year.

Ilfracombe, who themselves have been absent from competitive rugby for a while, brought a strong enthusiastic squad to Donnacroft.

Blustery conditions hampered both sides’ kicking strategies from the kick off! Ilfracombe took an early lead to which Torrington responded quickly. The scores went back and forth in equal measure in a game played with enthusiasm and sometimes got a little feisty! The result was a 21-21 draw.

It was good to see a sizable crowd watch the game, with a good contingent from Ilfracombe too and great to catch up with old friends and see so many excellent players returning after the pandemic.

Also encouraging to see was the amount of players available and committed to turning up, both for training and game day. Numbers have been rising since training started in July. Having said that, we will always welcome more players, new or old.

Off the pitch things are moving along nicely. The foundations for our changing room extension have been in place for a while now and blockwork has begun to rise up from them. It’s going to be a slow process as funds are limited, and work will only progress as money permits.

Another development which has been a long time coming is that we now have reusable plastic beer ‘glasses’ for use pitchside. It’s a simple process which many clubs have adopted in recent years. A £1 deposit is paid for the use of the glass, which is refundable upon return when finished with. These containers can be cleaned many times over before having to be replaced. This is a far greener usage than the disposable one-time use glasses we have used until now. The club is most grateful to our previous Chairman Phil Hearn and his business Pantheon Hospitality for their sponsorship. Most importantly, it alleviates the possibility of broken glass contaminating the playing and surrounding areas.

At the time of going to print, our next warm up game will be 10th September against Barnstaple 3rds who I’m sure won’t disappoint. The season proper starts with Buckfastleigh Ramblers visiting the following week. Reports on those and all other games in the next issue.

As always the clubhouse is available for hire contact us trfc1985@outlook.com. New and old/returning players are always welcome. Training at Donnacroft on Thusday evenings from 6.30pm. Respect, Sportsmanship, Enjoyment, Teamwork & Discipline C’mon Torrie!

Mark Waterson End of 21-22 season

The Appledore SingersCome and Sing with Us!

Open Evening Monday 3rd October

Ladies, now that summer is over, why not join the Appledore Singers at our Open Evening on Monday 3rd October, 7.30-9pm at Appledore Baptist Church, as we continue our Autumn season!

We perform in various venues throughout the year, in North Devon and beyond, and our repertoire includes arrangements of gospel and folk songs, songs from the shows, top ten hits and carols and festive music in the run-up to Christmas.

We are also requested to sing at weddings and for this we have a special selection of songs.

If you’ve ever wanted to join a ladies’ choir, then here’s your opportunity to do so – you’ll be sure of a warm welcome!

Normal rehearsals are held every Monday night at Appledore Baptist Church, 7.30-9pm. Contact our Musical Director Pam Beechey on 01237 420652 for further details. To see our forthcoming concert details visit our website: theappledoresingers.co.uk or see our Facebook page.

‘Seek a Smile thro’ Song’

Come & Sing

Okehampton

Choral Society will hold a ‘Come & Sing’ on Saturday, 29th October 2022 at Fairplace Church in Okehampton. Rehearsals during the day will prepare for a performance with soloists, at 6.30pm, of the 'Little Organ Mass' by Haydn and Part Two of 'Messiah' by Handel.

Audience admission to the performance will be FREE with a retiring collection.

Singers wishing to take part will be welcome. See website www. okehamptonchoralsociety.org.uk

For further details and registration forms, email enquiries@ okechoralsociety.org.uk or contact Jenny Gibbons, Parkfield, Belstone, Okehampton, EX20 1RD, 01837 840282.

Project Report – Rosemoor Site (& elsewhere!)

May to September 2022

Goodprogress has been made in several areas of the Rosemoor site since the last update.

After many months of painstaking work, our masons laid the final stones of the main arch of the lime kiln at the end of May. This brought to a successful conclusion a really challenging miniproject, which was essential to protect this badly damaged section of the kiln. Without our intervention, the arch would, in time, have collapsed destroying even more of this wonderful building. While the work on the arch was under way, we also managed to rebuild a substantial section of the adjacent wall and have now repaired some 60% of this. Ideally, we would like to extend the repair to the very top of the wall to make this completely secure, but this will have to wait until RHS Rosemoor (who kindly provided the scaffolding) have finished using it on one of their own projects. The word ‘iconic’ is greatly over-used today, but there can be no doubt that the lime kiln – together with Beam Aqueduct - are examples of superb industrial engineering and reminders of the fascinating history of the Rolle Canal.

Having gone as far as possible with restoration work on the lime kiln, in early June we turned our attention to the upper basin of the canal. Some time ago, we realised that the eastern wall of the basin was some 12 inches lower than the western wall. This was, in part, caused by the lack of decent building stone. At that time, our ‘in-house’ supplies were running very low and we were making do with whatever we could lay our hands on. In view of this, the Executive Committee decided to purchase several tons of good stone from a local quarry and this – together with stone donated by RHS Rosemoor - has made a huge difference. We have now raised the level of the eastern wall by the required amount, along some 50% of its length and should finish the remainder in the next two to three weeks. The quality of the stonework is so good that we are seriously debating whether the wall will need to be capped off. The advantage

of capping off with concrete coping stones would be to give a consistent finish with the lower basin (bearing in mind that these would originally have been one continuous pound) and protect the stone work. At the southern end of the upper basin, we have also uncovered what we think might have been the pier of an old bridge which spanned the canal by the tucking mill. This would make sense, as access would have been required from the tucking mill to the fields on the opposite side of the canal, where the processed wool was dried. (This was done on a wooden frame or ‘tenter’ to which the wool was attached by hooks and stretched. This is the origin of the phrase ‘to be on tenterhooks’ i.e. to feel tense or stressed).

The team has also put in a sustained effort on the tucking mill site over recent months. Following the successful removal of a huge tree stump (nicknamed ‘The Beast’), we have gradually exposed more of the perimeter walls to the south and west side of the building. The foundations are nearly three feet wide in places and show how solidly the mill was constructed. Our plan is to build these up to clearly define both the internal and external dimensions of the building. As part of this work we are attempting to repair and conserve parts of the cobbled floors which are a major feature of the building. We are also investigating a curious sump or drain adjacent to the tow path. Originally, we thought that this might have been built to allow water from the canal to enter the mill, possibly for the purpose of flushing away waste

matter from the fulling process, but this theory was revised when we discovered the remains of what seems to have been a smelting pit full of clinker-like material, just above the sump. So, the function of the drain or sump might have been to flush waste material from the smelting process out into the canal. Not very environmentally friendly perhaps, but they were different times! We have also done a lot of work on building up the bed of the mill race which was in a poor state. This has been done by first putting down a sloping concrete screed and then

Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group (TREG)

Since my last article, five members from our group attended the Devon Twinning Circle (DTC) meeting at the Commodore Hotel on Saturday 23rd July. We had lunch and then spent a couple hours meeting likeminded people from all over Devon. During the meeting, it was provisionally agreed that our group would host a DTC Meeting in Great Torrington sometime in April 2023. After the formalities of the meeting, we were

(continued from page 22) laying solid slate flagstones on top. At the time of writing, we have flagged about two thirds of the spillway and the results look very impressive as the photo shows.

It should also be pointed out that, as well as our efforts on the Rosemoor site, the team has also spent a considerable number of man hours clearing and tidying up other sections of the canal at Ridd and Furzebeam prior to this season’s guided walks. At Ridd, we removed ivy and brambles from the old stable block, cleared the area around the lower and upper docking bays and the inclined plane itself and opened up the access to the inspection chamber of the wheel pit – a feature which people always find of great interest. At Furzebeam, we concentrated on cutting back the overgrowth along the tow path and around the roving bridge (which originally carried the carriage drive from

divided into groups to discuss twinning topics and then a nominated person from each group shared their thoughts with everyone present; the whole exercise proved very useful and we were able to gain a picture of the challenges facing twinning in the future, with of course some advice on how to overcome those challenges.

On 30th July, Jay and Di Nicholson hosted a Group BBQ in their lovely garden. The event was very well

attended and we welcomed some new members to our group. What makes this type of event so interesting and pleasurable is of course the good company, but also the many different side dishes and desserts brought along by the members. Thank you so much to Di and Jay, and also to everyone who attended, in making it a most pleasurable afternoon.

We had planned to hold a TREG quiz this coming autumn, but it has been postponed until early 2023.

Finally, a huge thank you to Antony Jefferies for his steadfast work as Group Secretary for many years. Antony has worked very hard to maintain the dayto-day running of the group and he has been a pleasure to work with. Antony has now handed over the reins to Chris Cocks and I am confident that she will be an excellent Group Secretary (contact details below).

Torrington to Beam House). Once we had removed a load of creeper from the bridge, it was interesting to see the old grooves in the parapet made by the horses’ tow ropes as they crossed the bridge where the tow path changes. A lot of work but it proved to be very worthwhile as the walks were well attended.

Our thanks to everyone who took part and made them such successful events.

Tony Nicholls

We are always keen to welcome new members. We currently have over 31 members. Age is no barrier, as we have members ranging from 11 years and upwards; you don't have to be able to speak French and you don’t have to be in a position to host a Roscoff family in your home. If you are interested in joining us, please contact: Chris Cocks (Secretary) 01805 623068, or Nick Roberts (Chairman) 01805 625765.

We are holding a General Meeting at the Torrington Arms, at 11am on Saturday 17th September. You are most welcome to come along, have a coffee and learn more about the Group.

Nick Roberts

Fleur’s Gardening Forum

October: Taking Stock

After a magnificent summer of prolonged sunshine and high temperatures coupled with little useful rainfall, particularly during late July/August, we gardeners need to take stock of those plants in our gardens, noting carefully what has thrived and what has suffered. Sometimes, even if something has shrivelled in the heat and drought, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s dead!

Trees and shrubs were shedding leaves several weeks before autumn arrived; that is nature’s way of preserving moisture within the plant because leaves ‘expire’ moisture so losing some is essential to the tree’s survival. Most of these larger plants will survive, although some may struggle; the best way to help them recover is to mulch deeply once good rainfall has soaked into the ground, prune carefully and feed in the spring, if necessary. Mature trees and shrubs are best left to recover on their own, just remove anything that is dead in early spring. Don’t forget the test for dead wood, scrape a little bit of bark away with your thumbnail, if you see green beneath then the plant is still alive and it should make a full recovery.

One aspect of this extraordinary spring and summer is the glut of fruit/nuts that we are seeing; this is yet another way trees/shrubs preserve themselves by producing lots of seeds to take over if the mature plant succumbs. That glut is also beneficial to wildlife, including humans!

Our herbaceous borders have shown us which perennials have coped; many flowered and spent themselves very quickly, but recovered later in the season. It is apparent that those plants which have suffered are the half-hardy/tender annuals such as lobelia and sweet peas which shrivelled in the hot sun. However, many coped pretty well and looking around my garden, I am noting carefully those to grow next year.

Those perennials that do survive hot, dry summers and wetter autumns and winters are often those that grow around the Mediterranean, the Prairies of North America, or the Veldt of southern Africa. These plants frequently have hairy, narrow, or glaucous (bluey-grey) foliage having adapted to extreme conditions over millennia. Others are succulent, whereby their leaves are thick and fleshy, made for storing whatever water might become available. Some have thick tap roots (think dandelions!), again which act as storage vessels.

We need to perhaps rethink the way we garden in the future but our weather has always been unpredictable, since we are an island, therefore keeping notes of what grows well and where is important. Creating shelter by planting more shrubs and trees and mulching the soil really thickly after the autumn rains should become the norm.

One thing is certain – nature will always adapt and adjust, that’s evolution!

Torridge Walk & Talk

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

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

Full details on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk or call Steve 01273 421528.

Library Walk & Talk

Fleur

the celebration of one year happened in perfect sunshine, with a wonderful lunch at the 1646 café, a joyous singalong and very funny poetry. Of course there was also the walk to justify the big lunch, artistically presented.

Somehow

Who should we thank? No one wants to name names, but yellow-jacketed persons organised by the library just make it happen by magic?

Everyone has a story to tell, you can choose to listen or talk, but the walk you do to your capacity and therein lies the skill of the library organisers.

Walk and Talk takes place on Thursday mornings, from Torrington Library at 10.15am. Wear comfortable shoes and be there with a smile, donations to the library of course.

You will need to leave your details with ‘Kate the Walker’ who is at our great library, catch her if you can!

Microsuction Ear Wax Removal

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New private ear wax removal clinic covering Torrington & North Devon

No more waiting weeks, we can sometimes accomodate same week appointments & occasionally same day!

Call 07367 116 468 or visit our website www.devon-ear-clinic.co.uk

4 Well Street Torrington EX38 8EP

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive an evening meal for two at Charlies@ThePlough! Please send completed crossword with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail. com. The winner of last issue’s prize is Nicholas Purcell. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 13th October and the solution and winner will be in the November issue.

Win an evening meal for two at Charlies@ThePlough!

One lucky winner of the Crossword Puzzle will win a delicious evening meal for 2 at Charlies@ThePlough!

We’re very excited to announce that Charlies@ThePlough will be offering a delicious menu in the evenings from 5th October, Wednesday - Saturday between 6-9pm. This will be in addition to the new café opening hours 10.30am-2.30pm, Weds – Sat. It’s been a while since you could dine in the centre of Torrington and we will provide reasonably priced, tasty and varied evening fare – plus a full bar offering.

For a perfect and well-earned treat, have a meal and a show or a film combined and make it a real night out!

The evening menu will soon be available to peruse on our website www.theploughartscentre.org.uk.

Christmas in Town

Bookings are now open for our themed Christmas Dinner Parties, with a Casino Royale themed buffet night on Thurs 8 Dec for £27.95pp, and a 007 themed two-course dinner on Thurs 15 Dec at £39.95pp. Patrons are encouraged to dress up and best dressed will win a prize! Our themed nights will include music and entertainment and are perfect for company parties, professional groups or individuals.

Reservations for evening meals are necessary - call 01805 625925 or email Charlie at charlies@ theploughartscentre.org.uk. All dietary requirements will be provided for, please ensure you inform Charlies at the point of booking.

Easter Hal l Park Stables

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Riding & Carriage Driving Lessons Beginners - to - Advanced Qu alified staff - Fully licensed Indoor & Outdoor Arenas

Livery Vacancies, Training for NVQ/BHS Exams Phone 01837 810350

call for emergencies

Torrington Players month! 'Hobson's haven't booked your The dates, time, price number are all on the front cover, or pop into the Plough in person.

The cast has been working hard under the direction of Frank Allman, to bring you a memorable evening packed with laughter.

Henry Hobson is Umpleby, who alongside finds time to write anecdotes on our website Hobson's eldest daughter sensible one, is Sara younger, 'bumptious' sisters and Jo Wood. Neil as Willie Mossop, Moore, plays Albert, Vickie. Joyce Ridgwell Hepworth and this will be her with TP. members, but very Tony Bedinetz, Colin Puttick and Esther forgetting Richard Pitt, who very Welsh in 'A in Wales' to a very MacFarlane. there could not be a the unsung heroes I wish I could list all

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

If you want to see pictures of our last show or a list of previous productions, visit www.torringtonplayers.com

Torrington In Bloom Silver-Gilt Winners 2011

Hieveryone, Fabulous Freddie checking in. I hope you have all had a lovely summer and enjoyed the beautiful sunshine – seems in the distant past already with the nights drawing in! As always the summer has been busy, with various fundraising dog shows, and we have to say a big thank you to everyone that has attended them. There is no doubt that these events really do help us – both in terms of raising our profile and, of course, muchneeded funds.

Torrington in Bloom is delighted with the above result and would not have been able to achieve it without the help and support of local traders, groups and individuals, we would like to thank you all. A list of sponsors and supporters is available on the noticeboard at the entrance to the council offices/1646.

During August and September we have been busy behind the scenes, and no less than six dogs and two cats (yes cats!) found their new forever homes. Sadly, the requests for us to take in new dogs is on the increase, with many of them needing long term rehabilitation due to various behaviour issues. These dogs still deserve help, but it really is all about space and funds as always. We will continue to help as many as possible, but the rescue industry throughout the country is in crisis, with more dogs being surrendered than are being adopted, which is so sad. We do read quite often that adopting a dog is quite difficult, and there is a lack of understanding as to why adoption applications are taking so long. As a rescue we totally understand the frustration of people who do want to rescue, but never seem to get a dog. Quite simply, as a responsible rescue

Mayor’s Diary

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

we have to match the dogs we have to the most appropriate home, taking into account the personal situation and experience of the applicant, coupled with the needs of a dog.

our planning permission and things will return to normal. The support we have received from everyone has been amazing and Aunty Lynne has asked me to say she has been really moved by all the lovely comments that have been posted. I have been a little lazy in writing newsletters of late, with everything that has been going on, but I promise I will be sending updates as to how things on the

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

This is Britain in Bloom’s definition of what constitutes silver-gilt level:

‘Very Good’ (75-84% mark) – a high standard entry, which meets virtually all of the judging criteria and includes sections of exceptionally high standards. Exemplifies best practice in multiple areas and demonstrates very high potential for continuing development and sustainable effort.

The judges’ comments were positive in many areas, too: ‘Torrington in Bloom has learned a lot during the last year and you have the potential to be a very strong entry. 1646 centre improves each year and is a valuable asset to the town. Dartington’s (Crystal) grounds were a valuable addition to the route. The flowerbed at S&G is a vast improvement. The

Many of you will have seen that we have recently had a need to apply for retrospective planning on one of our kennel blocks, which is still under consideration as I write. We have had to undertake some changes to the kennels and work is currently underway, which we hope will help us gain the necessary approvals. Sadly, like everything, these changes are expensive and so we have launched a Crowdfunder. Please visit our website and Facebook page for details. It is always so hard to ask for monetary help, especially at the moment when times are really tight for everyone, but however small or large a donation, every penny helps to keep our rescue functioning. We receive no official funding and the cost of these works is something we had not planned for. While the works are carried out, regretfully, we have been unable to welcome our normal work experience and volunteers on site, and so I am missing my cuddles and treats. Hopefully it will be completed by the end of October, we will receive

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

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

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

The Co-op and Town arranged a Harvest Festival Pannier Market on the 11th September. This was the first one organised and I think it will become a regular event on the Torrington calendar.

planning front move forward.

Finally, we tried to attend Macmillan coffee mornings as and in fact ended up going This is a wonderful charity and surprising that it’s so well supported. After all those coffees we went Soap Kitchen shop to see Lesley Richard Phillips who celebrated years of business on 30th September.

On a more positive note our thanks must go once again to Bideford Bike Show, who have arranged a ‘Bikers & Paws’ dog show at Bideford Pannier Market on Sunday 6th November. There is still plenty of room for any stalls and if you are interested please email info@ bidefordbikeshow.org. Looks like it will be a fun day and, of course, I am guest of honour.

Congratulations to you both.

Right until November I am woofing off – just leaving you with a picture of my namesake Freddie, who was adopted last month.

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

Take care and don’t forget the clock go back which means an extra lie in for me! Woofs & Licks, Fabulous Freddie

Councillor Richard Town

Equine & Canine Massage

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Great Torrington Remembers

Private Leslie Honeychurch Blake

Leslie Blake was born in Great Torrington in 1897. Although ‘Honeychurch’ would appear a curious middle name, as I’ve seen on a number of occasions with other soldiers, it wasn’t uncommon for a child in those times to have their mother’s maiden name used as a middle name. In this case, his mother, Charlotte Honeychurch, married his father, Thomas Gent Blake. Both parents were born in Great Torrington, as was their wedding; however, we first find them in the 1891 census living in Lion Lane, Frensham, Surrey, with Thomas working as a ‘leather grounder’. The household is completed with their boarder, Samuel Stafford, who is also in the leather trade as a warehouseman.

By 1901, the couple had returned to Devon and were living at 201 New Street, Great Torrington. Both of their children had been born by this time, Leslie and his sister, Emmeline, born in 1895. Leslie’s father continues to work in the leather trade as a ‘chamois grounder’, whilst his mother has a profession as a milliner, which is a maker of hats. Both children are pre-school age. It is not until 1905 that Leslie is enrolled in school at the Great Torrington Council School for boys. The 1911 census has little change in the family make-up. Thomas continues working as a leather grounder, but Charlotte no longer has an occupation listed. Leslie’s sister now works as a draper’s apprentice and Leslie is working as an errand boy. On leaving school, we also know that Leslie began employment with local trader

Messrs Snow and Co. At 18 years of age Leslie was called up to join the forces through conscription.

At the beginning of the War, as a result of a massively successful propaganda campaign, young men flocked to enlistment centres to sign up. Even at the early stages and by January 1915, the British Army could call upon over one million men at its disposal. However, as the casualty lists mounted and the war of attrition took its toll, this number was severely reduced. Despite the universal ignorance of the press, and their subsequent positive messages, portrayed on the back of the information passed to them from the Government, the ongoing reality of a near bloodbath can’t have gone unnoticed by anyone thinking of enrolling. It would have been evident from letters home and the high casualty figures in the weekly lists published in local papers. As a result, the initial recruitment surge tailed away as the war continued, and the amount of men required to replace those killed or injured simply wasn’t enough.

Action was needed and the Government, who were deeply divided on the subject, felt there was no option other than to introduce conscription, which is effectively compulsory active service. The Military Service Act was passed in a number of stages. As of March 1916, there was imposed conscription on all single men between the ages of 19 to 41 years. There were exemptions, though: men who

were considered medically unfit; those in the clergy and essential workers such as teachers, and certain workers in industry were all excused from compulsory military service. Still, recruits were not coming through fast enough and by May 1916 the Act went further, by extending conscription to 18 year olds and married men as well.

Like so many other men at this time, Leslie Blake tried to opt out of national service. On his behalf, his mother appeared at the tribunal seeking exemption. Mrs Blake took the unusual approach of requesting that the appeal be heard in private, the tribunal agreed. Although we do not know the content of the discussions, we do know he was granted a four-month exemption.

Leslie was signed up to the Devonshire Regiment, initially with the 1st Royal Devon Yeomanry, service number 225304, before being embedded with the 2nd Devonshire Battalion, service number 205169. Although on active service by this time, it would appear that the Private was permitted compassionate leave in June 1917, to attend his father’s funeral, as he is listed in the chief mourners along with his mother and sister.

The 2nd Devons would see some of the fiercest fighting of the war, particularly through 1918, not least at Bois des Buttes. I will complete Private Blake’s story in the next edition.

Michael Newcombe, michael. mnewcombe@gmail.com

Collect Torrington,

OCTOBER events at the plough

The Plough Arts Centre says ‘Use it or… Use it Even More!’

Despitetricky trading conditions, caused by all the reasons we know too well, The Plough Arts Centre in Great Torrington and ThePlough@StAnne’s in Barnstaple have just launched a diverse and packed programme of live events, film screenings, exhibitions and participatory arts workshops over the next six months, to entertain and inspire people of all ages and interests across the region.

Director Richard Wolfenden-Brown is encouraging everyone to make The Plough their venue of choice, at this crucial time for the arts centre, which has thrived since 1975. He explained “As a multi-purpose arts venue, with little regular core funding, we continue to rely on ticket sales and donations for the vast majority of our income. Unfortunately, since we reopened in September 2021, audiences have not returned in the numbers anticipated, hence The Plough is faced with challenging business circumstances. Luckily we received government, Arts Council and National Lottery funding during the lockdowns, but those reserves are dwindling quickly. We are therefore appealing to everyone across the region to rediscover The Plough and to visit us very soon. Use it or… use it even more!”

Until February there are many arts

events to enjoy, ranging from live music with Ruby Turner, Martin Harley, Joe Stilgoe, Sarah Jane Morris, Kiki Dee, Barbara Dickson and Big Al, to comedy with Rich Hall, Mark Thomas, Paul Foot, Gary Delaney, Glenn Moore, and Mark Watson, to special events with Sir Geoffrey Boycott, Mi Flamenco, The HandleBards, Quirk Theatre, a Gothtastic DJ night, Haunted History Tours, and a number of National Theatre shows streamed live to The Plough via satellite.

Plough films are now screened much closer to the release date and Oct film offers include ‘Eiffel’, ‘Mrs Harris Goes To Paris’, ‘The Feast’, ‘The Hero of Centopia’ and Bollywood comes to North Devon via ‘Brahmastra Part One: Shiva’. The director of ‘Eric Ravilious Drawn To War’, Margy Kinmonth, will appear live to take questions from the audience after the screening.

The Plough’s two galleries host a wonderful variety of high quality exhibitions with Netti Habel’s photographs using only moonlight as a light source until mid Oct. Other artists range from one of our finest local landscape painters, Colin Allbrook to Anne Jackson's tapestry project inspired by the trials of “The Bideford Witches” in 1682. The annual Christmas craft fair showcases the best work of local makers

and Laura Porter from StudioKIND, who has recently completed her M.A., will exhibit her latest sculptures.

Trustees of the charity met in August and approved some prudent changes to staffing and opening hours from 1 October as part of controlling costs, to get the charity back on an even keel, whilst maintaining the diverse arts programme. Representations will also be made to Torridge District Council who briefly core-funded the venue prior to Covid, but have not renewed their support since the pandemic. The venue is also awaiting the outcome of funding applications for public support for the venue’s thriving participatory arts programme with young people and those with additional needs.

Chair of the trustees of the charity, Hugh Wormington, also announced an expansion of one area of the operation: “Charlies@ThePlough, our daytime café, has proved very successful so we are delighted to support the arts programme by opening an evening bistro food offer every Wed - Sat night from 6-9pm from 1 October. Tables can be booked on 01805 625925 or charlies@ theploughartscentre.org.uk”.

Your Plough Arts Centre

Visual Arts at The Plough

InOctober (up until Sat 15 Oct) we will be showing photographs by Netti Habel. Netti writes "I use the camera to record people and places by the light of the full moon. Shooting at night requires the use of exposures of about a minute. I record the wildlife, plant life, weather, seasons, star-and moonscape, and the cottage at Halsdon Mill where I live. In the intimacy and focus created by opening the shutter in the quiet of night and for a minute at time, I am exploring the deeply human wish for connection with one's surroundings and the natural world; the need for rootedness and home. For the portraits, the sitters are encouraged to stay as still as possible. The camera records their movements, and yet also their stillness, against the backdrop of the north Devon landscape and rotating sky.” www. nettihabel.com.

From Sat 22 Oct to Sat 26 Nov we have Henrietta Job downstairs and in the main gallery, ‘From Country to Coast: The Taw valley and beyond’ - paintings by Colin Allbrook RI RSMA HSEA.

Henrietta Job is an artist and painter living on the edge of Dartmoor, currently working from her converted horse lorry in mixed media and acrylics.

Colin has worked as an artist since leaving school 50 years ago, and paints in both watercolours and oils. Many of his paintings are based on the rural life here in the West Country, on farms and markets and also its rugged coastline and small harbours.

An elected member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour, the Royal Society of Marine Artists and the Society of Equestrian Artists he has, over the years, won many awards for his work. These include the Turner medal at the RI, the Cuneo Medal (Twice) at the SEA, and numerous times at the RWA.

October at the Plough

Sat 1 Oct

Every Sat term time: cost per term

Plough Youth Theatre - Play Story 3-5yrs

10.15-11.15am £40/£30 Supporters

Plough Youth Theatre - Infants 6-7yrs

11.30am-12.30pm £40/£30 Supporters

Plough Youth Theatre - Juniors 8-12yrs 1-3pm £75/£60 Supporters

Plough Youth Theatre - Seniors 13-18yrs

10.15am-12.15pm £75/£60 Supporters

Until Sat 26 Nov Exhibition: Netti Habel

FREE

Live Theatre: 7.45pm Studio Theatre

presents ‘The Silence' at ThePlough@ StAnne’s £8/£6 Plough Supporters

Live Music: 8pm Kiki Dee & Carmelo

Luggeri £22.5010 tickets key workers £11.25

Sun 2 Oct

Film: Eric Ravilious Drawn To War (PG) 4pm + Q&A with director £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Eric Ravilious Drawn To War (PG) 7pm + Q&A with director £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Tue 4 Oct

Workshop: Plough Prism 10.30am12.30pm (every Tue term time) £3.50

Workshop: Motion Dance 1.30pm-2.30pm (every Tue term time) £3.50 n Workshop: Ploughcappella with Alison Whittall: alising.co.uk 7.30pm - 9pm (every Tue term time) £75/£65 per term

Wed 5 Oct

Film: Eiffel (15) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr Residents

Film: Eiffel (15) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Thu 6 Oct

Film: Eiffel (15) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr Residents

Plough Youth Scriptwriting 4.30-5.30pm (every Thu term time) £20/half term

Live Satellite: NTLive ‘Jack Absolute Flies Again 7pm £15/£12 supporters

Haunted Histories Tours: Barnstaple Town & Workhouse 7.30pm starts St Anne’s - ends Undertaker’s! £12/£14.50 inc. refreshments

Plough Storytelling Circle 7.30pm (every Thu term time) at ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple £2

Fri 7 Oct

Sing & Sign 0-14 months 10.45 & 11.45 (every Fri term time) see website for details

Live Music: Ruby Turner 8pm £27/£24 supporters

Sat 8 Oct

Workshop: Contact & Woodcut Printmaking at ThePlough@StAnne’s 10.30am £50

Poetry: North Devon Poetry Stanza 11am: markhaworthbooth@gmail.com £10

Live Theatre: The Handlebards present ‘Twelfth Night’ 8pm £12/£10 supporters/£8 school groups

Live Music: Sarah McQuaid 8pm at ThePlough@StAnne’s £14/£12 supporters

Sun 9 Oct

Encore Satellite: NTLive ‘Prima Facie (15) 4pm £12/£10

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 Supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Wed 12 Oct

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 7pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Thu 13 Oct

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 7pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Haunted Histories Tours: Instow 7.30pm starts & ends Instow Signal Box £12 Open Mouth Music & Poetry in the Gallery 8pm-9.30pm suggested donation: £4 waged/£2 unwaged

Fri 14 Oct

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 7pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Gallery Gig: Rakes Adrift 7.30pm £10/£8 supporter/£5 key workers

Sat 15 Oct

Workshop: Autumn in Watercolours ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple 10am £50

Workshop: Festive Soap Making 11am ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple £50 Sun 16 Oct

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Mrs Harris goes to Paris (PG) 7pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

The Winkleigh Singers 3-6pm £15/£13 supporter (inc cake in interval) u25s free Tues 18 Oct

Barnstaple Jelly South-West co-working 10am FREE

Live Music: Vonda Shepherd 8pm £26/£24 supporters Wed 19 Oct

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Thu 20 Oct

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents Exhibition Preview: Colin Allbrook FREE

Haunted Histories Tours: Barnstaple Undertakers’ Tales 7.30pm starts St Anne’s ends Castle Chambers Café all tickets £12 Workshop: Deep Rest Healing Meditation 7.30pm ThePlough@StAnne’s, B'ple £15

Fri 21 Oct

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Gallery Gig: Marsch & The Reluctant Friends 7.30pm £8 full/£6 supporters Sat 22 Oct - Sat 26 Nov

Exhibition: Colin Allbrook FREE

Artists Wall: Henrietta Job FREE Workshop: An intro to Calligraphy 10am ThePlough@StAnne’s £45

Film: Brahmastra Part One: Shiva (PG) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Live Music: Swymbridge Concert ‘In beauty may I walk’ 7.30pm ThePlough@St.Annes, Barnstaple all tickets £8 (Proceeds to chemo hero)

Gallery Gig: Roseanna Ball 8.15pm £12/£10 supporters

Sun 23 Oct

Workshop: Origins, A Samhain Retreat 11am ThePlough@StAnne’s £55

Live Music: Remi Harris & Tom Moore 7.30pm ThePlough@St.Annes, Barnstaple all tickets £12

Mon 24 Oct

Play in a Day: Ancient Tides 8-12yrs 10am ThePlough@StAnne’s £10/£8 supporters

Wed 26 Oct

Film: Mia and Me: The Hero of Centopia (U) 11am £5 matinees/£10 minestrone

matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: Mia and Me: The Hero of Centopia (U) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: The Feast (18) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Gallery Gig: Plough The Future! 7-9pm £5/£3 supporters & u18s

Thu 27 Oct

Film: Mia and Me: The Hero of Centopia (U) 11am & 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Film: The Feast (18) 7pm £7.50/£6.50 supporters/£4 Gt Torr residents

Haunted Histories Tours: Barnstaple Town, Rail & River 7.30pm Starts St Anne’sends Castle Chambers Café £14.50 inc. refreshments

Gallery Gig: The Kahunas 7.30pm £10/£8 supporters

Live Music: Luke Daniels 8pm ThePlough@St.Annes, Barnstaple £12/£10 supporters

Sat 29 Oct

Workshop: Autumn in Acrylics 10am ThePlough@StAnne’s £60

Film: Mia and Me: The Hero of Centopia (U) 2pm £5 matinees/£10 minestrone matinees/£4 Gt Torr residents

Gallery Gig: Ajay Srivastav 7.30pm £12/£10 supporters

Live Comedy: Paul Foot: Swan Power 8pm £16.50/£14.50 supporters

Sun 30 Oct

Cinematic Experience: The Enchanted Cinema - Spells & Animated Journeys. 5yrs+ 12-1.30pm all tickets £5

Cinematic Experience: The Enchanted Cinema - Nosferatu (PG) 5-7pm £10/£8 supporters

Plough Storytelling Circle: ‘It was a dark and stormy night…’ 6pm ThePlough@ St.Annes, Barnstaple all tickets £5

Mon 31 Oct

Haunted Histories Tours: Barnstaple Witchy & Weird 7.30pm starts Barnstaple Museum - ends Castle Chambers Café £14.50 inc. refreshments

Last term, ‘The Day’ learning site launched a fantastic writing competition titled Celebration Day, ‘inspiring young people to thank those who went before’. They tasked pupils with finding the oldest person they knew, and interviewing them about the person who inspired them the most in their childhood. Pupils then used the interview to tell the story of this inspiring person. We had some amazing entries, two of which we published last month. Here are two more responses to the task:

I interviewed my Great- Great Aunt who is 93 years old, she had asked me not to mention any names in this piece of work.

Born in 1929 the world was a different place then the world is today, there was a King to the throne, few electronics and very little amount of cars on the road. We looked up to the Princess, as now Queen Elizabeth II is only three years older than me. We had no television, so we used to listen to stories of them on the radio. On a Sunday we went Sunday school, in the morning and then again in the afternoon, the highlight of the day was coming home to afternoon tea with teddy pasty, cakes, slices of bread and butter and jellies, we didn’t have that every day so that was a real treat. Sat round by the open log fire we also listened to the radio to hear what was going on with the King.

I also used to look up to my older brothers and sisters coming from a large family of nine, I was number five in the line up! we had to share everything as funds were low and my parents worked hard out on the farm to keep us fed and clothed, I always had someone around and plenty of companionship and love.

When I was four, I remember walking with my older brother, seven and sister,

five, to meet my brothers friends, who lived about a mile away, we walked for miles over the fields and down some steps to the reservoir, I was so excited to see the sea! I dived right in, playing in the water until the heavens opened up and it rained, we were soaked through. We started walking back, we were seven miles away from home, a lady saw us and took us in to dry off, she gave us a banana to eat then the farmer took us home in his car, the first time I had seen a car and went in one, motor vehicles were very rare back then. It was quite an adventure.

I was ten when the war started, my older sister and I had to collect newspapers, for the war effort, we took a pram and walked the mile walk into the village going to every house to find some. We loved reading and although Mother did managed to get us the beno every week, we loved coming across any other comics we could read.

At school we often had to walk down through the playground, in strict order through the field around the edge and into the woods to hide from the German’s in case they came looking for us, fortunately we were never attacked.

As I grew up, I was inspired to be a nurse and my sister got me a job at the local ward. I loved my job being able

to help others, I made many friends. In 1968 I moved to Texas for another adventure, there till 1972, nursing and making lifelong friends, unfortunately most have now passed as I am ninetythree, but I have lots of fond memories.

Lilita Kersey, Year 10

My Grandad and What Inspired Him

Mygrandad was born on the 17th October 1938, Orpington, Kent. He was the eldest of 7 children, 3 brothers and 3 sisters. Growing up they were very poor; with one outside toilet and only second-hand clothes. School was tough, the teachers were strict and my grandad had the cane every morning before he started lessons, just in case he was going to be naughty! This made his school years the most miserable years of his life. There were no birthday parties and as for Christmas they only had a tangerine and a comb in their stocking. But their mother always cooked a good Christmas dinner!

One of the things my grandad remembers the most, is that they lived in a tied cottage that went with his father’s job. He used to see other families lose their jobs and be kicked

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out of their home, suddenly! He always felt very insecure and worried about his own father losing his job and their home. This inspired him, at a very young age, to have a more secure home and life.

Several years later my great grandfather was offered a loan to buy a farm, he was very nervous but other members of the family including my grandad were very keen. The cheapest farm available at the time was 75 acres on the edge of Exmoor for £5000 and they bought it. This was the first step to having the secure life that my grandad had always longed for. He had already left home and was working and saving hard to help his family on the farm and every month he would send a new milking cow home to expand the heard. After a few years the family decided they needed more land as three of the brothers were now home farming. They bought their second farm in Peters Marland, North Devon. My grandad and his brothers milked the cows on the Exmoor farm and then drove a tractor

to Peters Marland to spend a day laying hedges before going back home to milk the cows again, it was a two hour journey each way.

This new farm in North Devon is where he met my granny. He fell in love instantly! They soon got married and bought a small holding of 20 acres together with their savings. This is what my grandad had been working so hard for, all of his young life; a place to call his own.

In my interview with grandad, he had so much to say, but 500 words isn’t enough to tell his long story. He currently has 4 children and 6 grandchildren who all adore him deeply.

It was not one person that inspired my grandad to work so hard, but his early years of insecurity and the determination to change his life around. This does show that hard work can - and will - pay off. I hope I can follow my Grandad’s legacy.

Josh Davies, Year 8

Last term Year 7 learnt about the form and structure of ballads, then had fun writing their own. Here’s an abridged version of an epic ballad from Barnie:

The Quest of Merlin

This story starts in a perfect village, One that thieves were yet to pillage

Six men set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

An impossible quest the men shall face, To slay a dragon with just death to race

Six men set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

Four knights were stupid enough for that quest,

But came like they needed sins off their chest

Six men set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

The dragon’s dark cave was in the distance,

They knew they did not have fire resistance

Six men set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

No matter how many spells Merlin tried, He couldn’t make the dragon get fried Six me set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

He went for the killing blow with his spear, Tales would be told of how he had no fear

Six men set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

The once invincible dragon was now dead,

And Prince Arthur would return with it’s head

Six men set out on a quest to slay, For only two men to come back that day.

The lands were now completely dragon ridden, Because of all the blood they had given Although the four knights were very much gone, Another dangerous quest was sure to come.

Barnie Reeves, Year 7

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

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Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

Our main supplier's catalogue for Sept and Oct is simply crammed with special offers, including never seen before ‘cost of living’ offers which have been specifically negotiated by our wholesaler to help people with the current challenges. In seven years of running OWBG, I have never seen so many. Both our wholesaler and their key suppliers have cut their margins to produce a range of staple lines at incredible prices. Some of these offers may have short dates or be in limited supply, but we and they really hope these great deals will help you in these challenging times. To view the catalogue, follow the link on OWBG's website home page, link below.

Wellbeing Tip:

Winter approaches and we're all wondering how we're going to cope with the increasing cost of living, including rocketing fuel costs and how this is all going to impact our wellbeing. So here are my suggestions – the only potential impediment to implementing them is our own resistance to change and to adapting to new circumstances – we all like our own familiar routines, it's part of being human.

Step 1: Join OWBG (free) from our website, follow the ‘How Tos’ so you can order and save at least 25% on your grocery bill each month.

Step 2: Collect your order from Torrington Rugby Club on collection day, meeting up with others in the group. Besides saving money on your groceries, you'll also save time and fuel – no need to race about trying to source wholesome foods from different sources. Choose

from over 5000 items in the catalogue.

Step 3: Preserve the summer heat that has built up in your body by starting to eat more warming foods now, reducing the quantity of cooling foods such as salads, raw fruits, cooling drinks and definitely avoid ice cream, which is incredibly bad for our kidneys at any time.

Warming foods are for example, foods cooked for a longer time, pulses, miso, tempeh, locally in-season vegetables, short grain brown rice (long grain is more cooling), buckwheat, teff, quinioa, millet and of course oats, either as flakes or groats.

Step 4: Understand that it matters what kind of energy source you use to cook your food. Living flame such as gas is best, it's deeply warming, controllable and food will taste much better. Electricity is very weakening energy and microwaves simply radiate your food, destroying nutrients and insulting your body with an extra dose of radiation over and above the radiation soup that we all live in now. Microwave fuel cost may be low, but it is absolutely detrimental to our health and therefore a false economy.

Step 5: Invest in a good stainless steel pressure cooker - it will last a life time. Cooking times are much shorter and pressure results in very delicious, mellow, warming and strengthening food that is particularly suitable in the cooler months. It's definitely worth taking the time to adjust to pressure

cooking – cooking times are greatly reduced, as once food has been cooked for the required time at pressure, one can turn the heat off, leaving the cooker undisturbed so food continues cooking at no further cost.

Step 6: Carefully choose your ingredients for maximum nutrition, taking into account each person's particular needs: i.e. men, women or children; is their job active or academic; are they well or depleted in some way etc. By preparing a number of different dishes cooked in different styles, each person can select suitable proportions of the dishes, according to their needs.

I do hope these pointers are food for thought and enable you to get started in helping yourself. More help and support coming via the OWBG newsletter (free to members) and our Facebook page too.

Upcoming Grocery Final Order Dates: 13th Oct, 10th Nov

How do I join? Via our Facebook page or website, full info on the website! What does membership cost? Free What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623 307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk OWBG Website: owbg.jimdofree.com Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Email: owbg@protonmail.com, www. marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

Grasses in the Autumn Border

Octoberbelongs to ornamental grasses, when many will be reaching their peak. To get the full benefit of their beauty, most are best planted backlit by the sun. The seed heads look stunning encapsulated with frost and provide a source of late season food for foraging birds.

Miscanthus cultivars are firm favourites at Rosemoor. M. sinensis 'Morning Light' AGM is subtly variegated and the pink feather duster flowers emerge in early autumn, turning silvery beige as they set seed. Of all the grasses in the Hot Garden, M. sinensis 'China' AGM probably impresses the most with large panicles of silky flowers.

Although Stipa gigantea AGM (golden oat grass) is very tall, it does not dominate, as the plants beyond can be seen through the graceful oatlike panicles giving added depth to the

a ripple effect as waves on a gentle sea.

Another tactile genus is Pennisetum (fountain grass) which have softly hairy flower heads in early autumn. Plant within easy reach of outstretched fingers and where the early morning sun catches the dew collected by hairs on the flowerheads.

'Shenandoah' AGM, 'Hänse Herms' AGM and 'Squaw’ all have striking blood red tips to their mid-green leaves. These plants make a great combination with dark leaved plants such as Phormium tenax 'All Black' or the bright oranges and yellows of Crocosmia, Rudbeckia and Kniphofia.

border. Stipa tenuissima AGM (Mexican feather grass) gives a delicate, fountainlike effect; you cannot help but run your fingers through the soft feathery panicles. Groups of five or more will give

Panicum virgatum 'Northwind', up to 2m tall, is a fabulous plant, bolt upright with foliage lasting well into winter. We use it in the Cool Garden, repeated in groups to provide a structural contrast with the rounded shapes of clipped Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Golf Ball'. P. virgatum

The qualities grasses bring to the garden are incalculable; delicate autumn flowers that can endure through winter; a variety of leaf texture and of form; the way they catch and hold the light, seasonal changes and their sociability with other plants.

Sheila Dearing Garden Technical Services Officer

Image RHS/Jason Ingram

Flowers for Flowers Christmas Community Workshop

Sponsored Floral Design

Saturday 10th December 2pm till 5pm at Castle Hill Community Centre £25 per person materials Tea/Coffee & Mince Pies

Majority of proceeds to go to the Community Garden & Torrington in Bloom book a place tel: 01805 938946 pop into the shop Christmas!