Torrington Crier

December 2025 & January 2026

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.

Mortgage Advice Bureau

Award Winning Mortgage Advice

Local Mortgage & Protection Adviser

Rate Renewals • First Time Buyers • Product Transfers Buy to Lets • Life Insurance • Income Protection

Critical Illness • Building & Home Contents

Plus so much more...

Contact Elize: 07825 - 946 723

Elize.savage@mab.org.uk

Read The Crier Online

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

Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?

Torrington & District Community News & Events

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 07443 491 972

E: torrington.crier@gmail.com

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

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 07912 693 858

E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com

Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £28 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £54 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

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

Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk

Proof reading: Sam Williams

Town Distribution: Esther Williams

Rural Distribution: Torrington Library & the community

Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton

Volunteers collect Criers from the Library each issue and drop them off in various villages. If your community doesn’t receive the Crier but would like to, and you can help, please contact Becky on 07443 491972, torrington.crier@gmail. com, or call in to Torrington Library.

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

Anyone using the information provided by The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Crier from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use.

The Crier does not endorse or recommend any product, service or information found within said articles. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to The Crier belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Crier or its team.

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

Beaford Village Hall

Christmas Market & Cafe

13th December 2025 9.30am-noon

Christmas Hamper Raffle - draw at 11.45am

Treat yourself to breakfast

Yummy homemade cakes • Tea & coffee

Christmas treats that will excite your taste buds Browse the market stalls

Find your Christmas presents here!

Enjoy the festive morning and have a chat with friends

New stall holders welcome Contact elliepearce.77@icloud.com

Town Hall: A Year in Review

Reflecting on a Year of Events

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect moment to pause and reflect on the diverse range of events hosted at the Town Hall throughout 2025. From a lively May Fair and vibrant VE celebrations, to toe-tapping band nights, training courses, and a memorable Spanish students' disco, there has been no shortage of excitement. Add to the mix charity fundraising events, martial arts classes, swing dance classes, amateur dramatics, and our own Christmas Fair, and you have a rich calendar of activities in our beautiful building.

We have also had the privilege of hosting beautiful weddings, joyful parties, and fond farewells. Our Events Team is grateful for the kind words from those who took the time to write and express their appreciation for our attention to detail, making the occasions memorable. Call us to see what we can offer.

Improvements and developments

Throughout the year, we have been delighted to introduce improvements to our bar and seating arrangements, with a cosy new fire, providing a more comfortable and relaxing environment for all. A new lighting system has been installed in the main hall, making parties and dances even more special. Some painting needs to be done in communal areas, so if anyone can help us with this, please let us know. With such a large building, there is always something to fix, and every event you book with us helps keep the building in shape.

Upcoming Events for your Diary

*21st/22nd November 7.30pm - Join the Torrington Players for their brandnew comedy mystery murder, “When Arthur meets his Deadline”. Enjoy a drink from our bar as you puzzle out the whodunnit’ bit! Tickets available from Duffy’s and Whiskers Pet Shop.

*27th November - Nikki Kitt, Psychic Medium. Reserve your ticket online at psychicmediumnikkikitt.com or just come

along to the show.

*29th November - Town Council Event for Christmas lights switch on. Starting 4.15pm. Lots going on in the Pannier Market and Town Hall. Come along and learn how to make paper lanterns in our main hall. The bar will be open with a special festive discount on beer as well as some delicious, mulled wine, free mince pies and tea and coffee served up in the Undercroft while you are listening to the Silver Band.

*5th December 930am-1.30pm Voucher Distribution Day. The Town Hall team and volunteers will be in the Undercroft serving hot drinks and mince pies. Please check your eligibility for a voucher on Great Torrington Town and Lands Trust website and in the Crier.

*6th December - Step into the season with style at our Winter Warmer Dance with Fine Whines from 7.30pm, an elegant evening with music, dance and cheer. The perfect start to the festive season, whether you’re celebrating with friends or hosting an office party. Our thanks to Anthea and Michael Sussex at WMS Ltd who are sponsoring the entertainment so we can offer free entry to our community! (Donations always welcome.)

*13th December 2.30-4pm - Treat yourself this festive season! Join us for a Christmas afternoon tea with a glass of Prosecco, treats, and live festive music from Black and Gold. Only £15 per person, booking essential! Call 07793 241 555 to reserve your table.

* 20th December - Step into the magic of Christmas 10am-1pm. The Cavaliers will be turning our Undercroft into a Father Christmas Grotto for the little ones and the Silver Band playing in the Square.

*Every Wednesday throughout the year - Knit and Natter 10am-12pm. Drop in and meet this warm and welcoming group of ladies. Enjoy a cuppa and cake! If you are new to knitting, there’s plenty of help and advice. What wonderful window displays they have done this

year, and the ideas keep coming!

Community Spirit and Collaboration

2025 has been a year rich in shared experiences, laughter, and community spirit. We look forward to working with the Town and District Council, The Plough, The Globe, local businesses, and charities to keep Torrington vibrant and welcoming.

A message from our Chair - Sandra Crawley

As the year comes to an end, the trustees would like to thank several people.

Becky and Esther deserve special recognition for the very professional production of the Crier, ensuring prompt delivery to our town and parishes.

The Town and Lands Charity, Town Council, Rotary and donations from individuals who have supported us. Every contribution helps and we are always seeking further grants or sponsorship to help maintain our building.

Gail, always cheerful and meticulous, who keeps the Town Hall spotless, which is commented on by our hirers and of course, our volunteers who are versatile and willing to help at events – we couldn’t manage without you!

Finally, I want to give my personal thanks to our trustees (we only have seven) and advisors who help support me throughout the year and have the energy and vision to keep the Town Hall operating for the benefit of the community and future generations.

If you would be interested in joining our small team, we would love to tell you more about what we have achieved since opening and help us shape the future.

We wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

Sandra Crawley Chair, Gt Torrington Town Hall admin@grettorringtontown-hall.org; 07944 639 739

Torrington Amateur Athletics Club

We were devastated to have our running equipment store destroyed by fire recently at the Rugby Club. We are so very grateful to the support of the town, the Rugby Club, the community and many others to get us back on our feet. We wholeheartedly appreciate the donations made to us and offers of help by Bideford AAC, Just Jog, Friends of Torrington Hospital and Function Fitness, thank you all so very much.

We have purchased some replacement equipment already, including a new sail flag, in preparation for the Christmas Caper on Sunday 21st December –(see opposite). Fancy training with us to run the Caper? Or for a New Year Resolution? Everyone is welcome, with any running ability (or none!). We might be a small club, but we are very welcoming and friendly, and there is no pressure to be at a certain level. We have some faster runners and several slower runners if you’re thinking of starting to run in a more gentle waywe were all first-timers once! We have a coached session every Wednesday evening 6.15pm from GTS car park. Coaches will give you all the support and encouragement you need, and there is fun along the way. You’ll often find TAAC runners at local parkruns (timed 5km runs or walks on a Saturday morning), or spot the green-and-white stripes at events around the county or beyond.

See our NEW website www. torringtonaac.co.uk; contact us at torringtonathleticsclub@gmail.com Facebook www.facebook.com/ TorringtonAmateurAthleticsClub

Library News

Meet-Up Mondays

10am-1pm

Our extra opening hours start on Monday 15th December. We will be providing free hot drinks, cake, biscuits and a warm welcome. Come on in and stay for a chat.

We will also be offering craft sessions, boardgames and jigsaws. A full library service will be available, including new books for you to enjoy, WiFi and printing services.

On Monday 15th December at 10.30am volunteer Chris will be running craft for adults. Come along to make attractive hanging paper bag stars.

Thank you to our Friends group who have raised the funding this year for our extra sessions.

Bounce & Rhyme Christmas Story Friday 19th December 10.30-11am

Come and join in with a Christmas celebration, with singing and action songs. Suitable for pre-schoolers.

NB: Our last Tuesday Bounce and Rhyme/Stay and Play of 2025 will be on 16th December 10.30am. We start again on Tuesday 6th January 2026.

Children’s Christmas Craft

Bring the children along on Saturday 6th December 10.30am-12pm, to make Christmas decorations for the Christmas tree. We will have lots of festive materials for them to use.

Elevenses Saturday 13th December 10th and 24th January 11am

Join us for a chat about what you’ve

been reading, your favourite authors, your week or just the weather! A free cuppa and cake will be on offer. Open to all.

Needle Felting with Furzie Wednesday 21st January 2026, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm

Needle felt with Furzie (www.furzie. co.uk) and learn to sculpt with wool. Make a little blue tit in the morning or a hare in the afternoon, or both. All materials are included - and the laughs are free!

Furzie creations sell worldwide - we are delighted to host these workshops at Torrington Library!

One workshop is £20, book for both for £35. Booking essential. Wrap-Up Campaign – Rotary Club of Torrington

This is likely to launch in November so please look out for it and contribute your thoughts. Please continue to support us by using the library.

Christmas opening times at please refer to our posters, Facebook page @ TorringtonLibraryDevon and Instagram @torrington.library for details.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thank you for all your fantastic support over the past year.

For assistance with any queries or to book tickets please contact us by emailing torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk or telephone 01805 622107.

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

The coat rail is in the hallway of the building Castle Hill (opposite the Post Office). Donate or take a coat. Thanks to Torrington Rotary Club for organising this campaign. If you would like to donate clean coats, please come along to the library, put them on the rail in the hall or drop off at The Bickford Centre. Thank you.

Consultation on the Future of Libraries in Devon

As you may have seen, Devon County Council have announced a consultation on the future of libraries in Devon.

Ink Cartridge Collection Point at Torrington Jewellers

We now have a recycle point for your old ink cartridges. Please bring in your cartridges, we will recycle them and donate to Little John’s House. Thank you.

Friends of Torrington Library

Ibecame involved in the Friends of Torrington Library some years ago and am currently the Chair of the Committee. Our library is a wonderful place, nothing like the old libraries when I was young, but vibrant with a variety of events for all ages and people.

The modern library is not just for books anymore, and the range of things you can find include baby weighing, bounce and rhyme, crafting for children and adults, author events and art workshops to name a few. Over the last few winters, we have seen the library open on a Monday morning as a warm, safe space with refreshments. This year we have applied for, and received, lottery funding to support this, so the library will be open again on Monday mornings from 15th December through to the end of March.

Libraries Unlimited is the charity who run Devon and Torbay libraries on behalf of Devon County Council and have done so for nearly 10 years. In that time the funding has dropped drastically, and the current situation is not sustainable.

Torrington Silver Band

Preparations are well underway at Torrington Silver Band for our calendar of Christmas events and it’s looking like another busy festive season for us. On Saturday mornings throughout December, you will find us under the Town Hall from 10am playing Christmas carols. We are always happy to take requests, so please stop by to say hello and let us know which we can play for you.

On Saturday 29th November, the band will be hosting a Christmas Fair at Howe Concert Hall. Come along between 10am and 1pm for a mince pie and a cuppa. There will be a raffle and games plus lots of Christmas items for sale, including decorations, small gifts, stocking fillers, and so much more. Plus, our wonderful training band will be playing carols for us.

Our annual Christmas Concert will take place on Saturday 13th December 2025 at Howe Concert Hall. The concert will begin at 7:30pm, doors will open from 7pm. Admission cost is £8 per person, under 16s free. There will also be free refreshments throughout the interval and a Christmas raffle. It’s sure to be an evening of festive entertainment for all the family. We look forward to seeing you there.

On Saturday 20th December, we will be opening the doors at Howe Concert Hall and invite you to join us for a new event in our calendar – ‘Sing for Little John's House’. The band will play some well-known Christmas carols and welcome you to join us with your singing voices. Doors will open at 2:40pm and the band will play from 3pm. Entry will be free but donations for Little John's House will be gratefully received. Refreshments will be available to purchase.

Torrington Silver Band would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support throughout 2025. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We have also seen the removal of the mobile library service. As a result, the County Council has decided to have a public consultation on the future of the library service, and this is due to take place between November and January.

As I write this (9/11/25) we do not know what form this consultation will take, but we desperately wish to at least preserve the status quo of our wonderful library and staff, after a very tough year for them.

We sell fiction books, jigsaws and puzzles to raise funds in support of our Library. We are very proud of what we, as a group, the staff and volunteers are achieving in our library.

Please get involved with the public consultation when it takes place, as your views will help us move forward.

Joy Morrison, Chair, Friends of Great Torrington Library

21 Chingswell Street, Bideford EX39 2NF

Monday-Tuesday - 10am-1pm 2-3pm

Thursday - 10am-1pm 2-6pm

Friday - 10am-1pm

07885 440 143 (text only) ...and Cinderella shall go to the ball

Great Torrington Commons

We have been planting 1,000 wildflower plugs on the Commons. Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT) has organised this for us, with thanks to Izzy Mosser who was in charge.

The aim is to restore and improve three of our meadows and to diversify them to support a greater abundance of wildlife. The first planting of 550 plugs was done on the meadow known as Quiet Possession, or Clarkes Meadow or even the Dump Field, in species clumps. Then 250 were planted in Reeds Field and another 200 on Tanton’s Plain. The mix includes some wet grassland species and dry grassland species, depending on the soil type. They include Agrimony, Angelica, Betony, Cowslip, Devils bit Scabious, Field Scabious, Fleabane, Hemp Agrimony, Meadow Saxifrage, Meadowsweet, Ragged Robin, Sneezewort, Valerian, and Wild Carrot. If you Google these, you will be able to see what they look like. The plants were grown at Devon Wildlife Trust’s nursery by the Farming and Conservation Services Team, and the seeds are collected from local species rich meadows including some DWT reserves.

Tanton’s Plain was also power harrowed in patches and oversown with wildflower seed. Further meadows will be

• Kitchens

• Custom built furniture

• Storage solutions

receiving attention in the future. We have been doing shrub clearance on Carriage Path, and this looks a bit drastic at first, but already new wildflowers have been coming through.

We have put up a Facebook post with lots of photos and information, and we would like to thank all the people who help us with this project.

We are continuing to work our way around the Commons during the winter months to open up the views from the benches on the many pathways. A lot of the benches do not have a memorial plaque on so if you have a favourite bench, and you would like to have a plaque, please get in touch for the details.

A new information board was placed by the Waterloo Monument, and three new benches will be put there very soon.

We do have a lot of diseased Elm trees around the Commons, and they will have to be felled unfortunately. Otherwise, they might get blown down over the winter.

Andrew Giles, Chair – Great Torrington Commons

07949 041 799

Sammoircarpentry@gmail.com

• Decking/Fencing

• Cladding

• Timber repair

• General home improvements

• External painting

Torrington Baptist Church at Christmas

Join with us to celebrate Christmas starting on:

Wednesday December 10th at 6.30pm for the Torrington community 'Big Sing' in the Pannier Market.

Sunday December 14th at 10.30am at the Baptist Church for the 'Nativity Service' and refreshments.

Sunday December 21st at 6.30pm at the Baptist Church for the 'Carols by Candlelight Service' followed by sausage rolls, mince pies and a cuppa. Wishing you all peace this Christmas and hope for 2026.

Torrington Methodist Church

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

Sunday Worship 10.30am at Church (but not on Sunday 21st or 28th December, see below). Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom email sarahrichards185@gmail.com to request a link.

Christmas Warm Welcome to All: Saturday 13th December 12-2pm homemade soup, filled rolls, cake, meet friends old and new all at no charge. (Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.)

Carol Service: Sunday 21st December 4pm followed by refreshments.

Christmas Eve Holy Communion: Wednesday 24th December 6.30pm.

Christmas Day Service: Thursday 25th December 10am.

Warm Welcome to All: Saturday 11th January (TBC) 12-2pm, info as above. Bacon Butty Coffee Morning restarts Saturday 18th January 10am-12pm and continues on the third Saturday of most months.

Our premises (various rooms incl wifi, screen mirroring and projecting) are available to hire, see website or phone Sheila 07579 058 284.

Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.

The Whole Jar

We are based in the traditional Pannier Market in the heart of Great Torrington.

Our speciality is local products from Devon & Cornwall: cheeses, preserves, pates, crackers & so much more. We also have a wonderful selection of homemade goods provided by @Sonu’s Kitchen: Indian pakoras, samosas, sausage rolls, feta, & spinach slice.

Look out for added items for your lunches & weekend treats. Gluten free options will also be available soon. If you would like to order anything do pop in & see us.

Email: hello@thewholejar.co.uk • Tel: 07398182659

Don’t forget our hamper service for birthdays, special occasions, & any other events.

The Whole Jar

It is hard to believe this is our second Christmas in the delicatessen. We have fabulous items in the shop for the festive period. We will be doing our super popular starters like mackerel pate, salmon pate and prawn cocktail for your Christmas Eve or Christmas Day table. I have not forgotten the sausage rolls and cheese rolls. We also have some graze boxes for you to collect, which can be made to order and will include some deli items, a selection of cheeses and a few treats created by Sonu’s Kitchen.

Our bespoke hamper service is available again this year. Let us know your budget and we will collaborate with you to create something unique. We are also joining together with some local shops to create a Great Torrington hamper, which means you can buy a variety of items or vouchers to add to the hamper. This can also include gifts for your furry friends. Why not create a lovely family hamper, now there’s an idea! We also have our own vouchers in the shop.

Another option is to bring your own hamper, cheese board, or even a decorative Christmas plate to us and we will make them into bespoke hampers for you.

Recently our catering business, Sonu’s Kitchen, provided ‘Heat and Eat’ Indian food which had a very positive response. We will be repeating this but expanding the range to include Indo Chinese cuisine, which is a speciality of my home city, Kolkata in India.

One of the most popular weekly items we offer are our salads, freshly prepared to each customer’s choice, as well as our usual deli items. Check out social media for more!

Finally, Graeme and I would like to thank all our wonderful customers and other business owners in Great Torrington for supporting our little family business and we would like to wish everyone a peaceful, restful, and enjoyable Christmas.

See you in January 2026.

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

Jayshree

LB Pilates – Reset & Recharge in January!

As we step into 2026, there’s no better way to reset, recharge, and refocus than with LB Pilates, beginning January 5th. These thoughtfully designed classes offer a perfect start to your wellness journey, helping you build strength, improve posture, and enhance body awareness.

Each class is kept small and personal, ensuring that every participant receives detailed coaching and individual attention. This focused approach allows you to maximise results safely and effectively, whether you’re new to Pilates or a seasoned enthusiast.

What truly sets LB Pilates apart is the expertise behind every session. Our instructors bring over 30 years of professional experience, combining deep technical knowledge with a passion for helping every client move better and feel stronger.

Make this January the start of something transformative, commit to your body, your balance, and your wellbeing with LB Movement and Pilates held at Function Fitness. www.lbmovement.co.uk; email lou@ lbmovement.co.uk.

Dartington

Crystal – Torrington Quality on Your Doorstep

The origins of Dartington Crystal lie in the vision of an American heiress and her English husband in 1920s Britain. Wealthy philanthropist Dorothy Elmhurst and her spouse Leonard, established the Dartington Hall Trust, aiming to revive struggling rural economies in England’s south. Among their socially-minded ventures was the founding of Dartington Glass as it was then known.

The story of Dartington Crystal began in 1967, with 16 highly skilled Swedish glassmakers who brought their intricate handcrafting techniques to Torrington, laying the foundations for a one-of-a-kind glass company.

Today, Dartington Crystal continues to provide beautiful, simple designs in crystal and glass. Much of our range continues to be handcrafted in the Torrington factory and Dartington is now the only crystal brand still producing in volume in the UK.

Characterized by sleek, elegant designs, Dartington Crystal is the perfect addition to any home. The items make for ideal gifts and with timeless style and meticulous craftsmanship, Dartington continues to provide glassware that is appreciated and enjoyed for generations.

The factory has been a major employer in the area for many years, and has developed a highly skilled workforce, many of whom have passed down their skills and passion for glassmaking to

their children.

Our Head of Design is Hilary Green, a local lady who is arguably the most talented glass designer working in the UK today. A graduate of the prestigious Royal College of Art, Hilary is devoted to the intricate craft of glassmaking. She relishes collaborating with Dartington’s skilled artisans during the sampling and development processes.

Dartington has become a brand leader in the home industry and can found for sale in many retail outlets such as John Lewis and Fenwicks. Widely purchased online through www.dartington.co.uk and other outlets.

The company operates a bustling Visitor Centre and Café here on our doorstep in Linden Close, Torrington, within the factory grounds, along with a well-stocked shop of not only crystal and glassware. There are also many other brands and gifts to suit all tastes and needs – including Denby dinnerware and cookware along with a vast range of gifts and Christmas ornaments. Lots of activities for the children too, including the Teddy Factory which is always a popular choice.

We welcome you all to come and pay a visit to this gem of a factory and visitor experience and stock up for Christmas.

The factory, visitor centre and café are open to visitors Monday to Friday and the shop is open Monday to Saturday. On Saturday 28th November, we are having a Super Saturday shopping day, especially for all our locals, from 10am to 4pm. There will be a 10% discount off all purchases on the day.

We are also taking bookings for the hand casting service where you can preserve the handprints or footprints of your loved ones forever, in crystal – even your pet’s paw prints! There is a half price offer currently running - book early to avoid disappointment.

Call 01805 626242.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get all the latest news of our local activities.

Torrington Library & The Bickford Centre joining Torrington Rotary in ‘WRAP UP’ Project

Our lovely Torrington Library will have a rail again this year with pre-loved, good winter coats for those in need… It’s part of a Rotary UK-wide project that Torrington Rotary has joined, to collect good coats that are no longer worn and redistribute them to those who need one. Please come along to the library and take a coat if you need it or donate one if you have a spare. Coat donations: please take to the collecting box in the Bickford Centre. We are collecting men’s, women’s and children’s coats.

Wrap Up This Winter - Give What You Can, Take What You Need. Cold days, warm libraries

Jan Bungay, Secretary, Torrington Rotary Club Email janbungay@gmail.com for information

Could You Help Organise Crier Deliveries?

We are looking for someone to take over delivering boxes of Criers to our town deliverers, and also to sort the Criers for collection by those who deliver out in the community too.

St Michael’s Church

As Christmas approaches, we warmly invite you to join us at St Michael’s Church to celebrate this special season together.

Christmas Service Times

Sunday 21st December: 10am Parish Eucharist, 6.30 pm traditional Carol Service with The Winkleigh Singers, followed by mulled wine and mince pies.

Wednesday 24th December: Christmas Eve, 5pm Family Crib Service 11pm Midnight Mass.

Thursday 25th December: Christmas Day, 10am Parish Eucharist. Wishing everyone a joyful and peaceful Christmas.

At St Michael’s we are a fully inclusive Church – everyone is always welcome. Come and celebrate with us this Christmas!

Torrington Baptist Church Light Lunch

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

We take delivery of Criers on a Tuesday towards the end of every month except for August and December. They are already bundled and labelled, and will be delivered to your home, so it's a case of dropping them off with each deliverer on the day, we pay expenses for this role. For the community copies we need someone to be at Torrington Library and bundle copies ready for collection.

Please contact Esther on 07912 693 858 or email torringtoncrieradverts@ gmail.com if you're interested.

Torrington in Bloom

We will be holding our Annual General Meeting on Monday, 1st December in the Great Torrington Town Council offices at 7pm. All are welcome to attend. Barry Cubitt, Chairman

Torrington & District Community News & Events

Tarka Valley Railway News

The past four weeks have flown by with much to report on since my last news item.

On October 9th, we had a planning visit from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue to discuss the arrangements for a fire drill and evacuation scheduled for the following week. This duly took place on the evening of October 16th where a simulated fire was staged on our DMU, which then spread to other vehicles and structures. Four engines and crews from Torrington, Bideford, Hatherleigh and Appledore. It was a very useful exercise for all involved and, importantly, a duty of care for a working heritage railway. A great deal was learnt by TVR and the fire service.

A few days later, we held our last running day of the year - the Halloween Spooktacular. We were fortunate in having a dry and bright day and our visitors enjoyed a ride on our suitably decorated train, met the friendly witch with her cauldron of treats and perused the many items on sale in our shop. It was a successful end to our 2025 program of events.

Despite all this excitement, our normal work continued aided by predominantly

Torrington Active Travel

“I can't currently access the Tarka Trail but would love to.”

This is one of the comments from a Torrington resident with restricted mobility, following the launch of our Active Travel survey (see below).

While our focus has been primarily on creating a safe and convenient cycle path between the town and the Tarka Trail, the initial responses to our survey indicate that users of mobility scooters find it near impossible to access the Tarka Trail independently, unless they have use of an adapted motor vehicle and helper to transport user and scooter to a trail car park.

While mobility scooters have access to Commons footpaths and the vergeside footway on Station Hill, none of these routes provide an accessible and safe connection to the Tarka Trail without moving onto the A386 carriageway on the narrow bridge over the Tarka Trail, then making a right turn into the Puffing Billy – a dangerous manoeuvre for cyclists, lethal for anyone on a mobility scooter.

There are solutions, however. A detailed design was prepared some years ago for a double hair-pin ramp up from the Tarka Trail to the start of Station Path, though this was subsequently rejected. A more feasible design might utilise the stone arch which provides access off the Tarka Trail to Rolle Rd. A graded curving ramp from

dry conditions. Vegetation clearance is ongoing; clay hood restoration occupied the carriage and wagon team and our per way volunteers started work on replacing, where necessary, all the wooden sleepers in the platform to the north of the Puffing Billy. This will keep us occupied for several weeks.

This is the final report of the year and I would like to thank everyone who has supported us and to ask that if you would like to help us to achieve our current and long term objectives, do come down on a Thursday, have a chat and a cup of tea

here leading up to a ‘path for all’ over a lightweight bridge parallel to the A386 bridge is a possible design, linking up to an improved verge-side path adjoining Station Hill. Various design options are possible for safe onward travel to Torrington centre and residential areas.

While such a design would be costly, it would be a drop in the ocean compared to the huge expenditure by Devon Highways on road schemes. Furthermore, the benefits of active travel designs have been shown to outweigh costs by a factor of 6 (Institute for Public Policy Research) – in other words £1 spent on active travel infrastructure generates £6 to the public purse and local businesses through health benefits, reduced congestion, climate change amelioration and tourism access to local services.

Torrington Active Travel has launched a survey to assess the level of support for a Torrington to Tarka Trail (T2TT) active travel link. If you would like to participate in the survey, this can be accessed using this QR code or via a link on the Torrington Active Travel FB page.

Torrington Active Travel

to discuss how you can help. In the meantime, I hope you all have a very happy festive season.

Weekly progress reports and photographs are always available on our Facebook page, showing how our various projects are moving forward. Please also visit our website www. tarkavalleyrailway.org for much more information on our history, rolling stock, how you can get involved and our ambitions for the future.

Robert Martin Tarka Valley Railway

Services include:

House sitting • Dog walking • Equine care • Emergency cover

Contact Isabel on: Tel: 07989 995935

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

Ho, Ho, Ho! It’s Freddie here getting in the mood for Christmas. While everyone is thinking mistletoe and wine, I will be thinking liver cake and Bonios! It is always such an exciting time for many of us woofs and felines, but for some, just like people, it can be a very stressful time –lots of new people around, strange noises, excited children opening presents, glass baubles that break so easily! So, while I am very excited at the thought of Christmas, please do make some plans for us less gregarious pets!

• I really like a safe space where I can retreat to if the hustle and bustle all gets a bit too much.

• Aim to stick as closely to our routine as possible, especially with regards to mealtimes and walks – we are creatures of habit! I for one get very upset if my dinner isn’t ready at 5pm, I have to go and keep nuzzling my mum if she forgets!!

• Try not to leave us alone for longer than we are used to, so we don’t get bored and start finding things to amuse ourselves, like chewing or barking!

• Secure the Christmas tree so it won’t fall over if bumped into, best not to put chocolate decorations on it either!

• Some nice toys or licky mats will keep us occupied and help us to relax.

Settling any new pets in before Christmas is important, and here at K9Focus we will stop rehoming our cats and dogs by the second week of December, as Christmas is simply just too busy a time to give a new pet the time and attention it needs. All the dogs and cats that are still with us for rehoming will stay with us until after the New Year, but they can be reserved, especially our five puppies! Wow, have you seen them on Facebook? Four boys and one girl with a Patterdale for their mum and a Border Collie for their dad and so will definitely need an active home – beautiful natures though.

Although our rehoming stops during December, our fundraising doesn’t, and so you will find everyone at Barnstaple Pannier Market on 14th December for our Victorian Christmas Fayre and Dog

Show. Lots of stalls to get those lastminute presents and, of course, a real chance for us woofs to show off our finer features. We will have carols, mulled wine, mince pies and hot food, so fun for all the family – 10am through to 4pm. Also in December, our annual Santa Paws appeal runs at the Barnstaple Pets at Home Store from 1st - 24th December, where our volunteers will be helping raise awareness (and funds) for the rescue, so do pop in and meet the team when you are out and about. We also have in our Torrington Shop, the Voice Toy Appeal collection box, which is collecting toys for children in North Devon that need them most.

Looks like it is going to be a busy December, and so I am off to look at Aunty Lynne with appealing eyes in the hope that she will get me something nice for Christmas or perhaps even bake my favourite liver cake! So that is me, Fabulous Freddie, signing off for another year and leaving me just to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and thank you for supporting all our dogs and cats throughout 2025.

Licks & woofs, Freddie Don’t forget to pop into our Torrington Shop (next to the Plough Theatre), still time to grab a bargain!

From Your County Councillor…

Icannot believe where the year has gone! The months are going by so quickly it’s scary. By the time this is printed there will be a consultation out on the future of Devon’s Libraries!

At the end of November we’ll be launching the consultation which will last for 12 weeks. This is a chance for residents to tell us about what matters most about their local libraries (which are increasingly becoming community hubs for all to enjoy), and to help shape how they can evolve in the years ahead. We’re looking carefully at how to balance financial pressures with new opportunities - for example, using technology and “open access” systems for some libraries (which are very successful in other parts of the country) as an option to help improve opening hours, as well as making library spaces more flexible for community use and different initiatives including public health. Please do complete the consultation, whether you’re a current user of the service or not, and help to shape its future. There is also a

questionnaire available for children to put forward their thoughts!

As part of my remit for Rural Affairs I am also arranging a series of informal meetings and briefings with officers and local organisations. These focus on tackling issues like digital exclusion, rural deprivation, and how we can better support isolated and rural communities. The aim is to find practical, local solutions by working together.

We recently met again with the Chief Executive of Stagecoach to discuss the recent changes to bus fares across Devon. The company has been looking again at its pricing zones, and I’m pleased to say there are plans for a new, larger travel zone in North Devon (currently, there is only a Barnstaple zone). If confirmed, this would be great news for those living in Great Torrington.

Devon County Council has now published its proposal for a new unitary authority - what we hope will be a simpler, stronger, and more sustainable way to deliver local services across the county. Under this proposal, known as the 9:1:1 model, the county and district councils would be brought together into a single Devon-wide unitary council, while Plymouth and Torbay would remain as their own unitaries. The idea is that

key services such as children’s services and adult care would benefit from being managed at a larger scale (rather than broken up into smaller unitaries), with more consistency and efficiency.

A key part of the proposal is the creation of Neighbourhood Area Committees (NACs) - around 16 across the county, each representing roughly 50,000 residents. These committees would bring together local councillors, parish and town councils, the voluntary sector, emergency services, businesses, and others to make sure decisions are informed by local voices and priorities.

The proposal will be debated by Full Council at County Hall on Friday 14th November and a final decision by the County Council’s Cabinet is expected on Tuesday 18th November. Ideas and feedback will be submitted to central government and ultimately, the Secretary of State will decide. If the timetable goes ahead as planned, we could see elections for an interim authority in May 2027, with the new council fully operational by April 2028.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to share your views on any of these issues. Wishing you all a really lovely Christmas and New Year.

Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin Devon County Councillor for Torrington Rural 07495 367 801

Cheryl.cottle-hunkin@devon.gov.uk

The Globe Hotel AGM Community Update

Abig thank-you to everyone who joined our first Annual General Meeting (AGM) as a Community Benefit Society (CBS) on 20th October at The Plough. We had a fantastic turnout: 127 of our 700 members came along, and the formal business wrapped up in 15 minutes.

Your board: Re-elected trustees: Doug Smith, Bill Blythe, Jayne Wafforne, Penny Maisey, and Mark Keeley. New trustee: Grant Langer.

Board roles will be confirmed at the first board meeting following a skills audit. We may also co-opt extra trustees if specific expertise is needed. What we covered

After the formalities, our project manager Rachel Kelly gave an update, followed by a lively Q&A.

You can find the minutes, slides and video of the AGM at www. theglobetorrington.co.uk. (Note: the livestream contractor had audio issues on the night. The recording of the event has been cleaned up and, whilst still not perfect, is much improved.)

Progress on the building Procurement of the design team is moving apace; the architect practice commissioned is Rhind Associates, who are based in Barnstaple and specialise in historic buildings conservation and re-use, and new innovative, high-quality projects, often for difficult or controversial sites throughout the southwest. The Quantity Surveyor is MEA, who are based in the South West and have a strong track record of delivering complex heritage development projects, as well as schemes specifically involving grant funding and the conversion of buildings for residential and hospitality use.

Immediate repairs to sections of the roof and some windows are about to begin, so expect to see scaffolding going up soon.

Have your say: Stakeholder panels

We’ve asked Community Heroes Ltd, who are based in Torrington, to run a

Volunteering on The Rolle Canal

The Rolle Canal Society was started with the intention of preserving those parts of the Rolle Canal which are still evident. The Canal was constructed in the 1820s and has a number of interesting features which are worth retaining for posterity. It featured barges with wheels attached, which allowed the use of an inclined plane instead of multiple locks. It crosses the river Torridge on an elegant aqueduct and traverses the hillside at Torrington, on a ledge 20 feet above the river. It began at Annery and ended at Rowes Moor, now RHS Rosemoor.

The volunteers meet every Tuesday afternoon and/or Wednesday morning and are busy restoring stone walling, digging out the filled-in canal bed and reconstructing some aspects of the route such as the inclined plane, the River Lock at Annery and the terminal basin at Rosemoor. The work involved is mostly manual, using hand tools, as in many instances access for machinery is not easy. A volunteer can be involved in many different tasks, such as weeding the bed of the canal of invasive shrubs and trees, repairing the stone walling and surface of the towpath, cutting back vegetation and installing control features such as non-return valves and sluices.

A knowledge of canals, while useful, is not necessary, and actual tasks are usually tailored to the abilities of the volunteer. All tools are provided and where required, instruction on their use. Parts of the canal are built on embankments high above the river, and many of the paths are intersected by big tree roots and large stones. Care must be exercised at all times to avoid tripping accidents. Hazard waistcoats are provided and expected to be worn when on site. The work is as hard as you wish it to be.

Your involvement will be greatly appreciated, and you would be joining a lively and friendly group of like-minded characters. To learn more please contact Tony Barnes on 07960 119 982 or Ian Harrison on 07557 478 371.

series of stakeholder panels with a focus on community, on local businesses/ partnerships, and on training providers/ participants. The goal is to inform the project strategy - and ultimately the building - that works for the whole town. These will now start in early December, with three sessions per stakeholder group, about two hours each. Participants will be asked to attend all three.

If you’ve already expressed interest, look out for an email invite. If not, drop Rachel a line at manager@ theglobetorrington.co.uk. These sessions will help expose both opportunities and barriers, build partnerships, and set clear outcomes and measures that align with the Globe’s objectives - all vital for tracking the project’s progress. Questions?

Rachel Kelly is happy to help: manager@theglobetorrington.co.uk

Keep an eye on updates at www. theglobetorrington.co.uk.

Borrow a Blood Pressure Monitor

You can now check out a blood pressure monitor from Torrington Library with your library card!

We have partnered with Devon County Council Public Health and NHS Devon to bring blood pressure monitors to all the libraries in Devon. The kits can be borrowed for up to three weeks and include a monitor, a simple instruction leaflet, a blood pressure diary to record the readings, and advice on what to do if numbers are high.

We hope this will help people to regularly check their blood pressure in the comfort of their home and take control of their health. Doing this and submitting readings to your local GP surgery could save your life.

Alan Woollacott Logs

Dry, Seasoned, Barn-Stored

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

T: 07886 465 668

1st Torrington Scouts

BCall or message Matt on: 07808 056 473 or Facebook: Matts-Garden-Services

eavers have been doing lots of badge work. First, their cooking badge and they made pizza, fruit kebabs and decorated ice cream. It was a super fun meeting where they learnt about healthy eating and ate their creations at the end. They’ve also learnt new skills such as how to roll their scarf, light a candle and about Diwali. This was followed by a meeting on bonfire night, and they learnt about Guy Fawkes, made a fireworks display picture out of chalk and pipe cleaners, and edible sparklers out of breadsticks, chocolate and sprinkles.

Cubs have also been cooking up a storm in the kitchen! So far, they’ve made pancakes, toasted sandwiches, chocolate cupcakes and chicken burgers. All the Cubs have been involved and really enjoyed being able to eat at the end of a meeting. While one group is cooking the other two keep busy by being judges and entertaining them. From tap dancing to jokes, dances and games, a great mix of entertainment.

Scouts have also been doing a mix of activities, starting off with escape rooms, which were great fun. All got involved in the story lines, one group went to the zoo and the other to space. Following on from that was a refresher on map skills, especially useful for the moonlight challenge team and we then got autumnal and carved pumpkins. It was messy but, fun! Lego came out and we made random objects to gain patrol points. Models ranged from an odd sock to a post-it note and a rubber duck, we had a great mix! Still to come this term is the Xmas fayre, Xmas camp and a pantomime trip. If you are interested in joining or helping, please contact Jordon (Group Leader) on jordon.whitear@gmail.com for some more information.

Art on Thursday

The group is an informal gathering of artists based at the Castle Community Centre, Torrington. We meet from 12.30pm to 3.30pm every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. The Fork n Feast is handy for refreshments or you can bring your own and also make use of the kitchen in the hall.

Beginners and experienced artists alike are welcome to join us for each three hour session to paint and discuss all things art and also sometimes put the world to rights!

We cover a different subject each session, guided by a 6-weekly schedule, which includes free choice sessions, to pursue your own particular interest. We have no tutor but do arrange an occasional workshop and also a life drawing session.

For further info contact: Hazel 01805 623757 or email - hazel.montgomerie60@ gmail.com.

Friendly professional lawn mowing and general garden maintenance.

Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding.

Garden waste removal and jet washing services also available.

Torridgeside Talking Newspaper for the Blind & Disabled

Losing your sight can mean that other things go as well, the ability to keep up to date with your community, reading the obituaries, and the more joyful things in your area, and you can feel increasingly cut off.

The Torridgeside Talking Newspaper provides a free service to people with sight loss, sending a memory stick with extracts from the North Devon Journal and the Gazette each week. Each week a group of volunteers gather to read from the papers, we admit that there might be a bias, two of us always read anything to do with the lifeboats, and another always reads anything to do with the museum. Near election time, we read out all the statements in the papers from the candidates and do this without comment.

If you, or someone you know, would like to try our service, please contact Shirley or Alan on 01271 861032. The service is free, but you will need a device which can take the memory stick, Alan is happy to give advice about this. Registered Charity No 289676

Torrington & its History

Coming soon! A new book by Moira Brewer entitled 'Torrington and its History: Articles from the Crier 2015-2025'. Sold in aid of the Children's Hospice South West.

TORRINGTON ARMS

Open daily from 11am Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm Takeaways Available Function Room available for all occasions

For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook

GREAT TORRINGTON

From Your Mayor…

The first week in October saw my consort Elizabeth and I joining Richard Wilson and Sue Davis from Torrington in Bloom, at the South West in Bloom awards ceremony in Torquay. As reported in last month's Crier, the group did incredibly well, obtaining many gold and outstanding awards. It was also great to see two of our local businesses (Fine Floral Designs and Kitch “n” Cupboard) also receiving gold awards! Well done to all involved for really putting Torrington on show! Thank you.

Sunday 12th October, was a very special day for myself as it was my official Civic Service. To celebrate this event in St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, with a service led by Father Steve, was special. However, to have our Army Cadet Force out in strength, with my new Mayor's Cadet, LCpl Imogen Pascoe, plus a strong representation from my fellow local mayors, and from Torrington Rugby Club, all singing along to music kindly provided by our town's wonderful Silver Band, made it a very memorable day!

next meeting is on December 9th 7:30pm at The Methodist Church.

Another organisation which does so much for our town is the Rotary Club. It really is amazing to see the amount of help and support it gives to both organisations and individuals within our community. It was a pleasure to be able to represent the council at the awards ceremony for those who had taken part in Torrington in Bloom's Open Garden event which took place a few months ago. Well done and thank you to all who took part.

The following weekend I attended Torrington Rugby Club's sponsors' lunch followed by a game against South Molton. Although Torrington narrowly lost the game, the team's spirit, energy, and attitude, was brilliant. This combined with the commitment to introducing many, many, youngsters to the game, really does help to bring about a family feel to the club where everyone supports each other. It is for these reasons that I have chosen the club to be one of my charities this year.

A few days later I was attending a very important meeting with the town's May Fair and Carnival Committee, to discuss arrangements for May Fair 2026. What was painfully clear is the fact that much help is needed if this event is to continue in a well organised and safe manner. So, it was great that at the following meeting in early November, members of the community responded to the requests for support and have come forward to help. Previously this event - which is enjoyed by thousands - has been organised by about a dozen hard working volunteers, so it is great to see a new influx of support. Many thanks to everyone who has already come forward, and if you would like to get involved the

A few days later I found myself at the official opening of the new shelter which is in the Calf Street Park. It is fantastic to think that this new facility was instigated by youngsters from the Torri Youth group, who also helped with fundraising. I’m sure it will really help those of all ages to keep dry in the rainy days to come.

Last week I paid a visit to our Man Down group, which meets fortnightly (on Thursday evenings) in the Bickford Centre. It really is good that we now have a place where men can go and talk in a relaxed, non-threatening, and confidential environment, about anything, and everything that might be on their minds. As I, and others, have said before, taking the opportunity to

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Your Council, Working for YOU

talk about experiences and feelings is a strength and not a weakness. Please feel free to go along and support this group if you possibly can, the door is open if you would like to attend. I know that you will be made very welcome. A huge thank you to Dave Bradley for working with the Man Down community and setting up this group.

Finally, last Sunday Elizabeth and I were involved in the annual Remembrance event at our War Memorial. I can honestly say that it was a privilege and an honour to lay our Council's wreath, and to read the Roll of Honour, along with Cllr. Sue Mills (the current President of the Torrington Branch of the RBL) in memory of those who lost their lives, making the ultimate sacrifice during all wars from 1914 to present day. To witness the Royal British Legion, along with so many organisations and community groups, laying wreaths demonstrated the depth of our town's community spirit. The service was led by Father Steve, and music including the Reveille was provided by Torrington Silver Band. Thank you to all who came along and paid their respects.

Take care and thank you for your continued support.

Phil Cloke, Mayor of Great Torrington

Christmas Lights Switch On

Date: Saturday 29th November 2025

Location: Pannier Market, Town Hall and Town Square

Time: from 4:15pm

So that as many people as possible can enjoy our Christmas Lights Switchon activities this year, we have made a couple of changes to the event on Saturday 29th November.

We will now be hosting the activities across three locations: Pannier Market:

• 4:15-5:15pm: Children’s Disco; facepainting; candyfloss/popcorn stall and the Market Café will be open selling hot drinks and food until 5:30pm.

Town Hall:

• 4:15-5:15pm: Christmas Lantern Making craft activity in the Great Hall.

Also, the Town Hall will be opening their bar on the first floor and will be serving teas, coffees and mulled wine for a small sum in the Undercroft. Free mince pies (supplied by the Chamber of Trade) will be available in the Undercroft.

Town Square:

• 5:20pm: Torrington Silver Band will parade from the Pannier Market to outside the Town Hall: everyone who

has made a Christmas Lantern is encouraged to join the short parade.

• From 5:30-6pm: Torrington Silver Band will lead carol singing in the square and the Mayor will switch the Christmas Lights on.

Please be aware that there is a strict limit on numbers in the Pannier Market, so if the market gets too full at any point in the evening, you will kindly be asked to either pop over to the Town Hall to make your Christmas Lantern or to wait a short while until some people leave the disco.

Please Note: entry into the Pannier Market will be from the town centre only. There will be no access to the Pannier Market from Barley Grove Car Park.

This is to allow us to monitor numbers inside the Pannier Market.

For further details please look out for posters and check our social media nearer the time.

Come along and join in the festivities as we once again light up the town centre in readiness for this special Christmas time.

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Free Parking Christmas 2025

Torridge District Council has confirmed the small businesses free parking day across all Torridge District Council car parks, will be on Saturday 29th November 2025, therefore parking will be free in both Sydney House and Barley Grove car parks in Great Torrington on this day.

Great Torrington Town Council has some hours remaining of its allocated free parking allowance for 2025. Members have agreed to use the remaining eight hours of allocated free parking plus fund two additional hours to allow free parking in Sydney House Car Park only during popular retail hours between 8am and 12pm on Saturdays during December.

This means that parking in Sydney House car park will be free all day every Saturday in December as it is already free from 12 midday on Saturdays every week!

See below for full details of free parking for Saturdays in December:

• Saturday 29th November FREE ALL DAY in BOTH Sydney House & Barley Grove - Torridge District Council Small Business Saturday.

• Saturday 6th December Sydney House ONLY FREE All Day

• Saturday 15th December Sydney House ONLY FREE All Day

• Saturday 22nd December Sydney House ONLY FREE All Day

We hope you make the most of the free parking and use the opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts and supplies from our local shops.

Remembrance Sunday Parade & Service

9th November 2025

Great Torrington Town Council and the Torrington Branch of the Royal British Legion would like to extend a big thank you to all community groups and everyone who attended the Remembrance parade and service held on Sunday November 9th 2025.

We would also like to thank everyone who supported the Council in the initiative to recycle the poppy wreaths for a second year running; by cleaning and re-using a total of 53 wreaths over the course of the last two years, we have saved 8.63kg of plastic from going to landfill. This year, the initiative raised just under £620 for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal which was a fantastic sum.

Unfortunately, now that the wreaths have been used for three years in a row, they are not suitable for re-use next year. We are, however, keen to hear from any local community groups who might be interested in using the wreaths for an art project to be displayed next year at Remembrance. If you think this is something you might be interested in, please contact the Town Council on 01805 626135 or admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Great Torrington Town Council will continue to liaise with the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal to highlight the issue of single use plastic.

Thank you also to everyone who attended the short service at the War Memorial at 11am on Armistice Day, 11th November 2025.

CCTV in Great Torrington

Look out for posters and social media posts in the New Year for further information regarding an informal meeting to gather community feedback on proposed plans for CCTV in Great Torrington.

Christmas Opening Hours

The Town Council offices will be closed from 1pm on Thursday 18th December 2025 and will re-open at 9am on Tuesday 6th January 2026.

If you have a query regarding Refuse & Recycling, Council Tax, Car Parks, Housing or Planning please look for the ‘Contact Us’ page on the Torridge District Council website. If your enquiry is urgent, you can call the Torridge District Council Switchboard on 01237 428700.

If you have a query regarding highways/roads (including potholes), street works, street lighting, on street parking, social care and safeguarding please contact Devon County Council (www.devon.gov.uk 0345 155 1015)

You can also use the Devon County Council reporting tool to report certain issues: www.devon.gov.uk/roads-andtransport/report-a-problem

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe and peaceful New Year.

Defibrillators around Great Torrington

We are pleased to announce that the lease on the five defibrillators situated around the town has been renewed for another four years.

Thanks to: Great Torrington Town and Lands Charity; Rotary Club of Torrington; Torridge District Councillors; Devon County Councillor Cheyrl Cottle-Hunkin; The League of Friends of the Torrington and District Cottage Hospital who all contributed towards the cost along with Great Torrington Town Council.

The defibrillators are situated at Torrington Methodist Church, Torrington Fire Station, Great Torrington Museum, the Old Bowling Green and Torrington Cycle Hire. The defibrillators have been accessed by paramedics on numerous occasions over the past year to assist with emergency situations.

Growbaby

For the last two and a half years

Growbaby has been working to make a difference to the lives of families in Great Torrington and surrounding areas. Growbaby is a national initiative, connected to local churches, providing preloved clothing and essential equipment for babies and children from birth to aged 5. The team, from Grosvenor Church Torrington, supports parents and carers from all walks of life, regardless of income or background.

Since opening its doors in April 2023, Growbaby has had the privilege of supporting 88 families and giving away 230 bundles of clothing and equipment. Requests come in many ways, mainly from direct requests from families, or through referrals from health visitors, family practitioners and Social Services who have contact with families who need support to access the service. We meet parents who are having a tough patch, parents who prefer preloved items for environmental reasons, and parents who simply prefer preloved to save valuable pennies for other essentials. All clothes are sorted and checked to ensure that our stock is clean and in good condition. Recently, Growbaby started a new chapter by moving to a new home at Great Torrington Bluecoat School café. It now runs every Friday from 1.30-3.30pm. This partnership has been a real blessing – not only does it provide a welcoming space for Growbaby families, but it has also allowed the team to support the school by running the school uniform shop, strengthening the bond between Growbaby and the community. Local grants have enabled us to redecorate the café and soon provide some new kitchen items.

Parents and carers will always find a warm welcome, a cup of tea and some cake waiting for them in a friendly and relaxed

From Your District Councillors…

This month, thanks to an unusual situation where both the Chair Cllr Doug Bushby, and the Vice Chair Cllr Doug Smith were absent, Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin (previously a Cllr for Great Torrington, and our current Devon County Cllr for Torrington Rural) chaired her first Full Council meeting at Torridge District Council, decided by a unanimous vote.

In another first, there was recently a by-election at Milton and Tamarside, and the winner, Cllr Nigel Kenneally, attended his first TDC Full Council.

We also discussed the Solar Beacon, another Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, similar to Xlinks. It is a solar farm in the Holsworthy Beacon area, expecting to yield 100 megawatts. It’s planning to cover mostly ‘lower grade’ agriculture land (grades 3-4b), and at about 2,700 acres, it is expected to be one of the largest in Europe. Lots of residents have already been in contact with us.

Like Xlinks, they will only be consulting with Torridge District Council and hear its opinions, as opposed to the standard planning application process where the Planning Committee make the decision. This is because of its application as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, which is an application to the government direct. TDC’s comments will be taken into consideration, but it

atmosphere. While many parents initially come to choose items they need, many regularly return to simply enjoy the company, have a chat or even a good cry, all of which is very welcome. We are there to give a listening ear, offer prayer if wanted, and further practical support if possible.

We have also celebrated offspring of our own! From doing presentations to various groups locally and through connections made, two more

would be down to the Government to decide.

There was also a NOM from Cllr Thomas, raising awareness of TTVS and the significant reduction in grants which cover core running costs. As a result, TTVS is now planning on winding down its operation. Many of you will be aware of TTVS, and its work within the voluntary sector in our area. Councillors are also aware of the great work they do. So unsurprisingly it was well supported and now we wait for the report to come to a future Full Council with options of what actions the Council could take to support them.

We have been working on tackling empty properties, and properties which are in desperate need of some TLC. If you know of any properties which have been empty for over a year, or properties which are facing neglect, please email Chris Bright with the address, and he will look into it further. If you have any concerns in your area, please get in touch.

Cllr Doug Smith, Councillor.smith@ torridge.gov.uk, 07970 636 199

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

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

Growbabies have been launched in the South West, in Bideford and Launceston!

Growbaby runs from donations, and thanks to the incredible generosity of local people we currently have all the clothes and equipment we can store, and so are not currently accepting further donations. However, we are deeply grateful for every contribution that has made our work possible.

If you are a parent or carer with a baby or young child and would like to use our service, please contact Julie on 07883 864934.

Little Torrington WI

NWinter at Rosemoor

ovember's speaker was Peter Adams, Head of Edibles and Nursery Team at RHS Rosemoor. It was a fascinating insight into the developments and plans for the edible garden areas and huge behind the scenes nursery operation to keep the gardens looking so good.

Our autumn nature ramble at Meeth Nature Reserve was cancelled due to bad weather, a new date to be arranged in the new year. The rain held off long enough on Remembrance Sunday for the WI to lay their wreath at the war memorial in Little Torrington.

December’s meeting is macramé Christmas decoration making, with Lorna Green - mince pies and mulled wine to accompany. Christmas jumpers at the ready!

Christmas lunch is at The Bell Inn, Parkham on the 4th December. In the new year we are looking forward to our WI 80th birthday celebration lunch at the Imperial Hotel in Barnstaple.

As part of WI members’ 8 Challenges set to commemorate our 80th year, we will be visiting the Red Dress exhibit at the National Trust’s Killerton. This is to give us inspiration for our individual panels as part of our group project to commemorate our WI 80th year.

WI members supported the Castle Hill Creatives Christmas Craft Fair at

Now that the winter is upon us, Rosemoor is in full swing with the evening Glow Illuminations; it is amazing to see the garden in all its winter glory both day and night.

As this is the first year for the recently redesigned Winter Garden, we are excited to see how everything is bedding in. With new additions to the garden, such as Hydrangea paniculata and lots more varieties of Miscanthus grasses, we are looking forward to seeing how the abundance of dried flower heads works against the structures of the existing evergreen shrubs and vibrant coloured stems. Jo Thompson officially opened the garden in October 2025 and the whole curatorial team, including lots of volunteers, have worked so hard to make her design come to life over the last two years.

Within the lower half of Winter Garden, classic favourites such as Sarcococca confusa ‘Sweet Box’ and Daphne bholua are now beginning to bloom and the sweetly scented perfumes are already filling the air. We are also seeing the first signs of snowdrops poking through the soil and hope they bring as much joy as they have in previous years. Editing of the remaining Winter Garden has begun and we are now working towards unifying the garden.

Jobs this time of year - winter mulching of beds and borders, selective cutting back of herbaceous plants, seasonal pruning of dormant trees, cleaning and sharpening tools in preparation for spring, pot washing ready for new year’s planting and propagation through hardwood cuttings.

Grace Barker, Decorative Ornamental Gardener

the 1646 Centre in Torrington. The WI provided mince pies and mulled wine.

The book club meets on the third Monday of the month and is currently reading Elly Griffiths, ‘The Last Remains’. Little Torrington WI members have made 160 dental bags, in support of this year’s National WI resolution, dental health matters. The dental bags have a toothbrush and toothpaste and will be distributed to North Devon Women’s Refuge, and to local food banks.

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

Torridge Ramblers

Torridge Ramblers are a friendly group of walkers who originated in Torrington 40 years ago and now walk Torridge, North Devon and occasionally Exmoor and Dartmoor. Visit www.

torridgeramblers.co.uk.

Upcoming walks

Sunday 14th December Treasure Hunt, Northam (members only); Saturday 10th January AGM, Alwington; Sunday 11th January Westleigh, 3-4 miles; Saturday 31st January, Dolton 7 miles.

PHILIP W TAYLOR LLB LEGAL CONSULTANT

Free initial consultation & estimate, no obligation.

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

Contact me for a free consultation. Telephone: 01271 858482 or 07766 714503 Email: philipwardtaylor@outlook.com

YOUR LOCAL GYM

Dafforn & Son

Independent Family Owned Funeral Directors

Funeral Directors

Roger P. Byrom 01805 622263 Independent Funeral Directors

Torrington

6 New Street, Torrington

24 Hour personal service 7 days a week Funeral plans & monumental masonry

Torrington Baptist Church

Everyone is welcome to our friendly, growing family church as we journey together to know Jesus and make Him known.

We meet every Sunday 10.30am followed by a cuppa and biscuits. The third Sunday of every month is 10.30am Breakfast Church, when our time together starts with bacon and sausage butties, vegetarian and gluten free are available, plus fruits, a lot of chatter, and followed by a shorter meeting.

Alverdiscott Church

Atraditional service of Holy Communion using the Book of Common Prayer is now being held each week at 8am in the beautiful village church of Alverdiscott. There is a sermon but no hymns. Anyone who appreciates the rich spirituality of the old 1662 service and King James bible, or anyone who has never used it but would like to give it a try, is invited to attend.

Badminton for Fun!

We don’t take it too seriously! Come and have fun. Players aged 18 to 118. 7.30-9pm, Wednesdays at Little Torrington Victory Hall, £3. Please telephone Jen on 01805 622433.

Great Torrington Water Forum

Microplastics (1 micrometreone-thousandth of a millimetre) and nano plastics (smaller than 1 micrometre) are small fragments of plastic that become detached from everyday objects when sunlight, wind, rain, seawater, or abrasion degrade them. Known as MNPs, these particles have been detected all over the world in natural environments, as well as throughout the human body and in meat, water, and various agricultural products. Their chemical make-up is complex, comprising not just plastic polymers like polyethylene, but also a vast array of chemical compounds and additives. Plastics today contain about 16,000 chemicals, including fillers and finishing chemicals that give plastic their different properties.

MNPs have become an unavoidable part of our environment, infiltrating our water, food, and even the air we breathe. While the scale of the problem can feel overwhelming, there are practical steps we can all take to reduce our exposure and help limit the spread of these tiny pollutants.

1: One of the simplest changes you can make is to drink tap water instead of bottled. Recent studies have found that bottled water can contain up to 240,000 plastic particles per litre, with 90% being nano plastics. Even glass bottles aren’t immune, but plastic bottles are by far the worst offenders. By switching to tap water, you not only reduce your microplastic intake but also cut down on plastic waste.

2: Heat and plastic are a dangerous combination. When plastic comes into contact with hot water, it can release trillions of nano plastics. Avoid drinking hot beverages from polystyrene cups, which have a particularly high toxic load. Don’t microwave food in plastic containers; instead, transfer it to ceramic or glass. Wash plastic containers in lukewarm water and always move baby food out of plastic pouches before heating.

3: Household dust is a major source of microplastic exposure, especially if you have synthetic furnishings. Regular vacuuming can help keep dust, and the microplastics it contains, at bay.

4: Many personal care and cleaning products are packed with microplastics, even if they don’t contain visible beads. Apps like Ban the Bead can help you identify and avoid products with hidden plastics.

5: Microplastics have been detected in honey, beer, milk, seafood, and table salt. Seafood lovers should be especially cautious, as mussels and crustaceans often contain the highest concentrations. Opt for organic produce certified by the Soil Association, which prohibits the use of sewage sludge, a major source of microplastic contamination in agriculture. Reducing packaged foods and shopping at zero-waste stores can also help.

6: Clothing made from synthetic fabrics like fleece and polyester shed microfibres whenever they’re washed. To prevent releasing the fibres you could buy a washing machine with a built-in filter, not all machines have them yet, but a Bill going through Parliament will require all washing machines to have them (don’t hold your breath!). Alternatively, you can fit a filter to the machine drainpipe. There are various types available with varying costs, we will provide information on our Facebook page. These filters help reduce microplastic pollution from laundry, contributing to cleaner waterways and a healthier environment.

While we can’t eliminate microplastics from our lives overnight, these small changes can make a meaningful difference for our health and the planet.

The Water Forum was created to raise awareness about the critical issues facing our rivers, lakes, and water resources. While some of the issues we talk about seem negative, understanding them is the first step towards change.

Across the country, and the world, dedicated groups are gathering data, sharing insights, and helping

communities better understand the health of their waterways. They’re also working to safeguard our water supply, promoting clean, reliable, and sustainable systems for today and tomorrow.

Climate pressures and financial hurdles make this work complex. But every action, whether monitoring a local stream, supporting a campaign, or making mindful choices at home, adds up to real progress. Together, we can transform concern into change, and change into a legacy of clean, sustainable water for all. By acting now, you’re helping build a healthier, more resilient planet for future generations. We hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year. Contact us @ gtwaterforum@ gmail.com; www.facebook.com/ greattorringtonwaterforum; www.linkedin. com.

Merton 01805 603924

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

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

Great selection of wines, real ales, ciders

Personally Supervised by Andrew & Janice Gist 01805 622364

Open fire and snug rooms

Climate Changing Room News

Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Waterways Society Guided Walk

Torrington Methodist Church 10.30am Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Morgan

OSaturday 13th

depending on the season, may well be flowering at the time of the walk.

ur third annual Summer Breeze event in August was a fantastic day, the weather mostly behaved, and the crowd brought the sunshine anyway!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bideford College Abbotsham Rd, Bideford, EX39 3AR Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50am1pm Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 3pm @ The Plough Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @ The Plough Comedy 8pm

Under Construction

The new season's programme of Sunday afternoon walks starts on 26th May with a visit to the site of the Inclined Plane at Ridd. This is the place where the Rolle Canal was raised up about 43 feet from the valley floor near Weare Giffard to a level

Advice Surgery with Geoffrey Cox MP. for an appointment ring 01237 459001 or email to tellgeoffrey@geoffreycox or via website www.geoffreycox.co.uk

£2 per child – under 1s £1 – siblings £1. Price includes healthy snack & drink for the children & hot drink for adults

We enjoyed an amazing line-up of bands, plus new additions Really Wild Learning and Beatz Cooking, alongside returning favourites Circusy Workshop. A huge thank you to our brilliant local volunteers, the Castle Community Centre team and Fork ’n’ Feast Cafe, we couldn’t make Summer Breeze happen without you!

Coffee Morning in aid of Wembworthy Church @ Chulmleigh Town Hall 9-11am cakes, produce, draw prizes appreciated Major Walker MC Ceremony @ War Memorial 11am (see article)

Torridge Walk & Talk

Our permanent Climate Changing Room building is now under construction.

Monday 8th

Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4.30pm details

The start of the walk is at Annery Kiln, on the Weare Giffard road by Halfpenny Bridge, at 2.30pm on Sunday 26th May. The distance is little over a mile but with plenty to look at and discuss is likely to take a couple of hours. A donation of £2 to the Rolle Canal Society's funds will be

Historical Society House & Quay' & John Oatway Torrington Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @ Methodist Church

Film Plough

Film Film

Tuesday 9th

Film

Film Plough

Wednesday 10th

St Michael's Church in St James Chapel Torrington W.I Film

Thursday 11th

St Michael's Church Said Mass 10.30am in St James Chapel followed by Walsingham cell in vicarage Memory Cafe 10.30-12.30pm @ The Plough

Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Beast 2pm @ The Plough Film 'Cloud Atlas' (15) 7pm @ The Plough note early start for long film

banks to be clearly seen, and the way the railway subsequently cut through the northern end, destroying the top of the incline. This canal basin now supports an increasing population of Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a green flowered orchid) which,

Rebecca Leach 01769 560 685.

W

alks every Tuesday and Wednesday, a variety of routes at different levels each lasting about an hour.

Thursday 18th

St Michael's Church Said Mass

10.30am in St James Chapel

Free walks led by trained walk leaders, full details are on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk.

Music Gaga: Rock Anthems 8pm @ The Plough

(this could be as simple as a blue mushroom crate turned upside down with a 10cm x 10cm hole cut in one of the short sides and a weight on top) which should stop any local cats enjoying a free meal. Cat biscuits (not fish flavour) are an ideal food to put in the feeding station but please never bread and milk as it can make them seriously ill.

Or contact Steve on 01237 421528.

Friday 19th

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

Torrington Memory Cafe

WGig 'Zion Train' 8pm @ The Plough

Saturday 20th

Music Bob Fox 8pm @ The Plough

Sunday 21st

If you find a hedgehog out during the day, wobbling and unsteady or you’re worried about one that visits your garden, place the hedgehog in a high sided box with a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel and cover with the cloth that you used to pick it up with then please ring any of the following who will be more than willing to give advice or take to one of the local vets.

St. Michael’s Church 10am Sung Mass

e have been in receipt of two financial donations recently, perhaps Christmas came early for us! As a not-for-profit group, these give us a real boost, but it is a shame that both come from unfortunate circumstances.

 British Hedgehog Preservation Society 01584 890801

Ignatius Sunday Club in upper room

Torrington Methodist Church 10.30

Rev Ken Morgan 5pm Circuit Service @ Parkham

 North Devon Hedgehog Rescue 01271 816989 or 07964 522 359

Anni Nicholls

Torridge Ramblers afternoon walk 01237 451820

The Friends of Torrington Cottage Hospital have given sterling work over many years. We are one beneficiary of their closure. We thank Stuart and Judith Lee and Jax Hughes for a very kind donation in memory of mum and mum in law Sheila Lee.

hard of hearing. Every 3rd Tues 2pm @ The Bickford Centre call 01271 373236

Youth Club Centre for 11+ @ 5

Badminton Club

Adults @ Bickington Community Centre Cribbage pairs competition @ Torrington Arms 8pm

them to find food or hibernate properly over the past months so many are now weak and need help. If you know that you had a resident hedgehog in your area last year please don’t forget to put a bowl of water and some food out for them, placing it inside a feeding station

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

Hickfords Property Services Hickfords Property Services

Located in the beautiful gardens of Castle Community Centre, Torrington, right beside the veg patch and physic garden, it uses low-impact steel screw foundations, no digging or concrete, and a well-insulated timber frame with tripleglazed windows and doors. The space will have power, lighting and (hopefully) fast Wi-Fi, with easy access to the Community Hall facilities. We’re also conveniently accessed from the main car park, next to the Library, Post Office and Fork ‘n’ Feast café. More events on the horizon

Film 'Les Miserables' (12A) 3pm @ The Plough

 Torridge Hedgehog Rescue (working with ND Hedgehog Rescue) Angela Hodge 07884 486 509

Film 'I Give it a Year' (15) 7pm @ The Plough

Such support gives us emotional momentum, helps secure our future and allows us to fund increased support.

Monday 22nd

Please look out for events in your area during Hedgehog Awareness Week 5th to 11th May.

Mini Mover Dance Session for under 5's 9.30-10.30am @ High Bickington Community Centre

Pets As Therapy

We meet at the Methodist Church on the second Thursday in the month from 10.30am-12.30pm. We help clients, families and carers.

Comedy Alistair McGowan 8pm @ The Plough

Gallery Gig The Pete Canter Trio 8.18pm @ The Plough

We welcome new members and helpers. For further information contact Lorraine 07377 363 477 or John 07986 586 799.

Tuesday 23rd

Youth Club for 11+ 5-7pm @High Bickington Community Centre Badminton Club 7pm Juniors 8pm

Pets As Therapy is a national charity founded in 1983. It is unique in that it provides therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing and care homes, special needs schools and a variety of other venues

Christmas

Craft Fair

Adults @ High Bickington Community Centre

W Damp Surveys & Remedial Works

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

Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist

Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist Damp

Wednesday 17th

Friday 12th

 Woodworm & Rot Treatments

 Kitchen & Bathroom Design & Fitting

 Property Maintenance

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

 Extensions

Theatre Scottish Falsetto Puppet Theatre 7pm @ The Plough

St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am in St James Chapel Short Tennis @ High Bickington Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+

Royal British Legion 3rd Weds of every month 7pm @ GT Conservative Club

Wednesday 24th

We are so excited about the Climate Changing Room and about hosting more events, talks, workshops. But this room is for you, so if there’s anything you’d love to see us put on, we’d love to hear your ideas! Drop us a message on Facebook or Instagram or send us a quick email at climatechangingroom@hotmail.com. Let’s make it happen together!

 Landscaping & Decking

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

Film 'No' 8pm @ The Plough

Atherington Acorns, fun, friendly group for parents & children aged 0-5

Great Torrington and District Community Development Trust, Castle Hill, South Street, Torrington EX38 8AA. Charity registration number: 1055230

9.30am-11am @ Atherington Pavilion every Wednesday term time.

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

e are holding a Christmas craft fair in the Northcote Hall, Iddesleigh, on Friday 5th December, starting at 4.30pm. Supporting North Devon Hospice and other local charities, including Farms for City Children.

Short Tennis @ High Bickington

Community Centre 4.30-5.30pm for 5+

Film 'Fire in the Blood' (PG) 8pm @ The Plough

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

Contact Colin Hickford C.S.R.T—Tel 01805 623376 Mob: 07976 936 465 Email: hickford208@aol.com Free estimates & Free estimates & friendly advice HNC, friendly advice HNC, NVQ and Institute of and Institute of Wood Preserving & Wood Preserving & Damp Damp--Proofing qualifiedProofing qualified Providing quality but affordable accountancy and taxation services.

There will be mulled wine and mince pies to enjoy. Craft stalls, Christmas wreaths, cards, jewellery, handmade decorations, craft stalls, preserves and a tombola.

Thursday 25th

St Michael's Church Said Mass

JAMES WASTE COLLECTION

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

For any kind of clearance, please call, text or pm anytime for a no obligation quote. Thank you!

Collect from Torrington, Bideford, Barnstaple, & surrounding areas

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

Slimming World Groups at Torrington’s Castle Community Centre

Wednesday 9am & 10.30am

The Crier Prize Crossword

The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a free membership - 6-week Slimming World course, their latest magazine and a box of our Apple Crumble & Custard H-Fi Bars! (Prize valid Torrington only.) Please send your completed crossword with contact details to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington. crier@gmail.com. The winner for the last issue is Sharon Lambert. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 8th January.

Debbie Summers 07796 945 039

As January approaches, I’m thrilled to be celebrating 14 years as a Slimming World Consultant. It’s been such a privilege to support so many wonderful members, and I couldn’t be prouder of our amazing Torrington group. We meet every Wednesday morning at Castle Hill Community Centre at 9am and 10.30am, and each week is filled with inspiration, encouragement.

This year brings the launch of our brand-new pack, Essentially Slimming World. It’s designed to help you eat well, move more, and build lasting success with our Food Optimising plan. It’s the perfect way to refresh your journey and set yourself up for a healthier future. Since November 2025, our incredible members have lost over 195 stone. What an incredible achievement, and proof of the power of our supportive group. Expert support is waiting for everyone. Whether you’re a mum-to-be, a new mum, living with diabetes, navigating the menopause, or even stopping smoking while losing weight, Slimming World has resources tailored to you. We also provide accessible materials for blind or partially sighted members, ensuring everyone can food optimise for a healthy future.

Our group is more than just a meeting, it’s a family. As member Gemma says: “I love group, hearing everyone’s inspiring stories and great recipes. We are like a family.”

If you’d love to be part of our amazing community, pop along and join us, or contact Debbie on 07796 945 039 to hear about our latest joining offers.

Eight stone-built holidays cottages • Pretty countryside open gardens setting• Comfortably priced • 1-5 bedrooms • Spacious indoors & out • Somewhere for everyone to enjoy. couples, families, family celebrations • Outdoor summer pool, small animal farm, games room, playroom, fast wi-fi

Torridge House Cottages, Little Torrington 07807 698 224 • www.torridgehouse.co.uk

North Devon Ramblers Walks in December

Here are the walks from the North Devon Ramblers.

Please remember that walks may be cancelled or changed at short notice owing to weather conditions. It is recommended to check on our website northdevonramblers. org.uk or with the walk leader if in doubt. Everyone is welcome to join us on our walks, but please come suitably shod and with food, drink and waterproof clothing. It is likely to be wet and muddy at this time of year!

4-mile circular river walk with one ascent returning in time for lunch!

Saturday 20th December: Melbury Hill. Meet at 10am by St James’ Church in Parkham for a leisurely 5.5-mile walk towards Melbury Plantation and Melbury Hill.

You are welcome to join us for our

Talking About Death Doesn’t Make it Happen

DWednesday 3rd December: Baggy Point Circular. Meet in Baggy Point NT Car Park at 10.30am for a pleasant 5.5mile walk to Putsborough and back returning on the South West Coast Path.

Saturday 6th December: Christmas at the Hall. Meet at Chapleton Station at 10am for a leisurely 4.5-mile walk to Herner Chapel and The Hall.

Sunday 14th December: Harwood goes to Horwood. Meet at the lay-by by the Westleigh turn off on the B3223 at 10.30am for a 9-mile walk around Horwood.

Wednesday 17th December: Dulverton Riverside Walk. Meet at Exmoor House Car Park in Dulverton (car parking fees apply) at 10.30am for a

Winter Walking Festival which will be taking place daily from 1st to 4th January 2026, with a family walk on the 1st, a walk from Bampton on the 2nd, a coast path walk from Stoke to Hartland Point on the 3rd and a walk from Watersmeet on the 4th

Further walks in January are from Burrington on the 6th, Croyde on the 11th, Holdstone Down on the 17th, Hillsford Bridge on the 21st and Woolacombe on the 25th

More details of these walks can be found on our website from 1st December.

Total Property Services

eath Cafes are a global movement offering space and time for conversations about death, dying, grief, and, inevitably, also life and living. In a society that often uses euphemisms and shies away from talking about death, a death cafe offers people the opportunity to share experiences, ask questions, listen to others and say what we may not feel comfortable saying elsewhere. There is no agenda, and there are no set topics, conversation flows and themes are developed from what people bring to the discussion.

So do come and join us in an open conversation about all things death related at the Great Torrington Death Café.

Recently we've discussed our hopes and fears about 'getting old' and how death is another transition like birth, adolescence or marriage.

On Friday 21st November 7-9pm at the Bickford Centre on South Street, Torrington; Monday 15th December from 10.30am-12.30pm in the foyer at the Castle Hill Community Centre (1646); Monday 19th January 2-4pm at the Bickford Centre on South Street, Torrington and Tuesday 17th February from 7-9pm in the foyer at the Castle Hill Community Centre (1646).

T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

events at the plough

Festive Magic & New Year Highlights at The Plough Arts Centre

There’s so much to enjoy at The Plough Arts Centre this December and January, from festive markets and family films to live music, laugh-out-loud comedy, and delicious winter dining. Whether you’re looking for a cosy night out, a special gift, or something fun for the family, The Plough is the perfect place to celebrate the season with warmth and community spirit.

Join us for our Christmas Makers Markets on Sunday 7th and Sunday 14th December, 10am–4pm. Discover a treasure trove of handmade gifts, local crafts and festive treats in our main auditorium, all set to the joyful sounds of carol singers and live music. Families can enjoy our Children’s Grotto (£10, bookable separately), and on Sunday 7th there’s a Wreath-Making Workshop (£28, booking required and selling fast). The Plough Café | Bistro will be serving up a delicious Christmas Roast Dinner on Sunday 7th and Hot Roast Filled Ciabattas on the 14th, alongside mince pies, mulled wine, and our usual range of hot and cold drinks. It’s the perfect way to soak up some festive cheer! To book your table email the Café | Bar | Bistro cafe@theploughartscentre.org.uk or call 01805 625925.

Live music lovers can gear up for the

party season with Voodoo Room on Friday 8th December, a phenomenal power trio paying an electrifying tribute to Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Cream (£21, £20 supporter). There’s also still time to squeeze in a night of laughter with Andy Parsons: Please #@!$ Off to Mars on Saturday 6th December, 8pm (£19, £17 Supporter). At time of writing there were just a handful of tickets left, so don’t delay!

Our talented Plough Youth Theatre take centre stage this December with two special seasonal performances: A Winter Wonderland on Saturday 13th December, 7pm (£8, £6 U18s) and Winter Solstice Celebration in Torrington town centre (exact location TBS) at 5pm on Saturday 20th December. Come along to support our incredible young performers and enjoy a magical evening of performance, song and seasonal sparkle.

The festivities continue with the Exmoor Carolers Sing-Along on Saturday 20th December, 7:30pm, a heartwarming evening of traditional and ancient carols from the Exmoor region, open to all ages (£14, £12 Supporter, £10 U18s). Film fans are also in for a treat with a host of festive family favourites: The Greatest Showman Sing-Along on Friday 19th December, complete with a warm-up led by sensational singer Debbie Kent

(costumes encouraged!); The Polar Express Onesie Party is on Saturday 20th December (free hot chocolate for onesie wearers and 10% off group bookings of 4+); and three screenings of Wicked for Good on Friday 19th , 7:30pm; Saturday 27th , 2pm & 7:30pm. Join us to experience the magic of the big screen during the Christmas Holidays (£8.50, £7 Supporter, £6 U18s).

Families with younger children will love A Winter’s Tale, a play-along immersive theatre adventure for ages 2+, on Monday 30th December, with performances at 11am and 2pm. Join Ratty and his woodland friends and help bring their wintry adventure to life, the perfect festive outing for little ones (£12, £10 Supporters).

After a bustling festive season, The Plough Arts Centre will close briefly from 5th–19th January for essential flooring refurbishments. Renovations are funded by grants from the Claire Milne trust and Arts Council England. We are getting rid of all the lumps and ridges to make the foyer and cafe more accessible.

We’ll reopen with a fantastic line-up to brighten the winter months! Janet Street-Porter is Off The Leash Friday 23rd January. The nation's favourite grumpy pensioner is bringing comedy, tragedy and gossip in equal measure- a tour de

force rant against growing old gracefully 23rd January, 7:30pm (£30).

The party season continues with our Burns night celebration. Come raise a glass, recite a verse, and dance the night away in honour of the great Robert Burns on Saturday 24th January. The celebrations begins at 6:30pm with a Burns Open Mic in the Café | Bar | Bistro, where you can share a poem, a song, a toast or soak up the atmosphere. A three-course Scottish Supper Club will also be available (menu coming soon, limited places, booking essential). At 8pm join the Appledore Ceilidh Band for a lively evening of dancing and music — no experience needed, just enthusiasm! Dancing starts at 8:15pm sharp! (£12.50). Arrive early, grab a dram, and soak up the spirit of the night!

If you thought that was all for the party season - you’d be wrong. Riding into town to banish the January Blues is ‘Not The Cowboys.’ Imagine Guns and Roses

or Bon Jovi played with a boot stompin’ wild-westcountry twist. Grab your cowboy hat and come experience their unique brand of chaos and the best hoedown in town. You’ll be singing, swinging, and shouting the night away! Kick off 2026 in style with the ultimate post-holiday party, Friday 30th January 8pm (£18). For families, Zootropolis 2 (PG) screens twice on Friday 2nd January with a relaxed screening at 10:30am, an afternoon showing at 2pm, and a third showing on Saturday 3rd January, 2pm. Take advantage of our Family Film Deal with 10% off groups of four or more (£8.50, £7 Supporter, £6 U18s). Theatre fans can enjoy National Theatre Live: Hamlet, directed by Robert Hastie and starring Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi), on Friday 23rd January at 2pm and Saturday 31st January 2026, 7:30pm (£15, £12. Supporter, £12 U18s, 10% off groups of 6+).

Meanwhile, over at The Plough@ St.Anne’s in Barnstaple, December is alive with live music, including the Kahunas on 6th and 7th December and Small Town Jones + Special Guests on 19th and 20th December. Plus, a host of creative workshops to keep your imagination glowing all season long.

From festive markets to family films, laughter, live music and ceilidh dancing, there’s no better place to make memories this winter than The Plough

Arts Centre. For tickets, menus and full event details, visit theploughartscentre. org.uk or call 01805 624624.

Visual Arts & Exhibitions

Enjoy three enthralling exhibitions January through March: Freedom of Spirit: A collection of work by children of Palestine 19th January – 31st January 2026

The Artist’s Wall: This touring show hosts a collection of paintings and drawings by two groups of children from the West Bank: Nablus in 2019 and Hebron in 2025.

Cream First! Remembering The Creamery in Great Torrington 4th February – 28th February 2026

PV: Saturday 6th February 6-8pm. The Plough invites visitors to reflect and share memories of The Torrington Creamery, since it opened in 1952. Featuring photographic work by Philip Thomas, alongside archive material. Expect a visual showcase of the building’s many uses, through its heyday, dilapidation and finally its demolition in 2025.

KINections: Emerging Rural Artists 4th March – 4th April 2026

PV: Saturday 7th March 6-8pm

A multi-media exhibition of new works by emerging rural artists based in Cornwall, Devon, and Torbay.

All exhibitions are free, no booking required, gallery access available during open hours.

The Sound of The Whistle

One minute…

I clutched the bayonet close to my heart, Nothing but regret piled up in my brain. Sheets of rain plummeted down on my head; My pulse quickened.

Fifty seconds…

The perpetual thought of my loved ones trapped in my mind, Hammered into my soul. My vision became hazy, A shield of tears blocked my view.

Forty seconds…

One hand gripped the ladder, The other pressing metal into my heart. Then time stopped. I swayed motionless.

Thirty seconds…

Some voices rattled with fear, Others stood tall. My thoughts drained out of my skull. Am I going to die?

Twenty seconds… “Fix bayonets” the sound roared, With nightmare music of metal Slicing our air, our dreams. Killing the major melody of my youth.

Ten seconds…

I scanned the trench for joy, for love. But clutched the empty crucifix round my neck. The power that used to fill me with hope… Lost.

My ears rang to the sound of the whistle.

Flo Whiting

This month we are featuring more superb war poetry from some of our Year 9 writers. Taking inspiration from the iconic war poets they have been studying such as Wilfred Owen, these pupils have impressed us with their thought and creativity.

Didn't Deserve Death Silence

Only the sounds of shaken breath And whispered prayer our anxious souls wishing for mercy

Gun shots echoed in my ears I felt stuck, stranded Helpless

CHARGE! those words cut through me like a knife Terrified and confident yells Seared the silence

I ran fearing for my life

People falling all around me Machine guns bloodthirsty Calling my name over and over

My gun held strong

The knife rusty with blood

Blood from people that didn't deserve Death

Izzy Andrews

Silence

The silence hits loud as we wait for the time, bayonets swaying, reflecting a shine. Here we are in a straight line Trusting our lives to a clockwork chime.

Tick...Tick...

Tick... the sound sways we struggle to grasp why we live this way we cling to the quietness for one last moment this is the reason for our enrolment. Adrenaline rushes faster than vision feet stumble soldiers toppled like toys never to be played with again. Running… Running… Running… then you stop is this end or not?

Bayonet Charge

We charge through the sludge, like the belly of the beast Soldiers collapse, struck down by guns, off their feet

The cold, bitter wind whistles and shrieks Playing in unison with dying soldiers' screams

One gets shot, hopelessness flickers in his eyes

A tear rolls down his cheek as he crumbles and dies

Pieces of shrapnel fly through the air Innocent men, struck down, without care

Bayonets fixed, we charge at their guns Enemy troops pick us off one by one Another soldier is hit, his body drops dead

Plunges into a crater, sinks down like lead

The sound of bombs, piercing our ears Men cower away from shell shock fear We storm through the wire, stomp through the mud

The green fields of France, now stained with blood

The Rifle

The rifle stands, a silent soldier that’s tall,

Its metallic skin reflects a bygone call, It experienced battles, felt the soldier's grip,

Now rests in silence from its duty slipped.

The rifle remembers the thunderous roars,

The screams of men, the ground bloodied with gore,

It mourns the fallen, an honourable friend,

Their stories etched until the very end.

The rifle dreams of a world with no wars,

You cannot tell if it’s just fear in your brain, but it brings you back here again. The silence hits loud.

Bexleigh Weeks

The enemy trench is in our sight Dare we believe that we've won this fight?

Our mission is over, for what it's worth Our friends from this hell lay dead in the earth.

Rory Bidwell

Where fields are green and people suffering no more,

It yearns for peace, a gentle, soft embrace,

To lay down its arms and find its resting place.

Rupert Andersen-Sims

Drain clearing CCTV surveys Repairs/Relining Septic Tank and Treatment plant installation

Drain clearing CCTV surveys Repairs/Relining Septic Tank and Treatment plant installation

Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251

RICHARD HEYWOOD ELECTRICAL

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

What we're about: a Torringtonbased group enabling members to order organic wholefoods from our wholesaler's catalogue of over 5000 items, at wholesale prices, i.e. at least 25% less than retail prices. Our aim is simply to make better quality food available at affordable prices to more people, and to support our health and that of our families. You can find full information and become a member at no cost on our website, owbg.jimdofree.com

At our order collection day social and lunch, we have great discussions, sharing knowledge and supporting each other in our efforts to really invest in our own health, and rise to any challenges we may have. Our kitchens are our pharmacy, and we enjoy swapping recipes, techniques and tasting each other's dishes.

We're aware that not everyone is free on our monthly Wednesday socials, so in November we had a very enjoyable social evening in the Torridge Inn's Thai restaurant, with regular, lapsed and new members and their families. In the new year we'll be offering a variety of different events and get-togethers on different days, so do watch this space. Our collection day social on 21st January will include a clothes swap/sale, the

emphasis being on organic and ethical clothes brands. Do contact us for details. Anyone interested in finding out more about what we do and in joining OWBG is welcome, if you would like to come – do! The dates and location are on our website and a quick email to owbg@ protonmail.com is very helpful so we are in the know about numbers.

Wellbeing tip:

Quick Delicious Festive Treats

It's a busy time for all of us, so here is a quick recipe for delicious finger food to offer your family and guests.

Sweet Potato Chilli Bites

Ingredients: 85g dried chickpeas soaked overnight or 200g tinned, drained chickpeas; 200g chopped unpeeled sweet potato; 1tbsp coconut oil; 1/2 red onion finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves crushed; 1tsp ground turmeric; 1tsp ground cumin; 1.5 tsp finely chopped red chilli; juice half lemon; 2tbsp tahini; 30g roughly chopped coriander leaves or coriander microgreens.

Method: cook the dried chickpeas or drain if using tinned. Steam the sweet potato chunks for 15 minutes until soft, meanwhile sautéing the onion and garlic in the oil until soft, adding the turmeric, cumin and chilli and sautéing for 2 more minutes. Preheat oven to 200C (180 fan/400F/ Gas 6). Whizz chickpeas, sweet potato, lemon juice, tahini and

coriander in a food processor for about 10 seconds to rough up a little – avoid over blending! Put the mix into a big bowl, add the onion mix, season with salt and pepper. Roll into 16 balls, bake on parchment paper in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. Leave to cool on a wire tray for a few minutes, then serve hot or cold. Enjoy!

Wishing you all a jolly, happy and healthy festive season.

Mary & all at OWBG

Upcoming grocery final order dates: 17th December; 15th January

How do I join? Via our website, where you'll find all the info you need. What does membership cost? Free What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

OWBG website: owbg.jimdofree.com

Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group

Email: owbg@protonmail.com www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

St Giles Church

Christmas Tree Festival

13th , 14th December and 20th 2-5pm; 21st December 2-4pm. Refreshments available. Carol Service start at 6pm. All welcome.

Fleur’s Gardening Forum

Hyacinths

One morning, in the middle of winter when the weather outside is grey, damp and miserable, you will slowly make your way downstairs and into the kitchen, or the dining room and suddenly, as if someone has just slapped your face, you are transported into a warm spring morning as an almost overpowering perfume fills the air around you! A pot of bulbs, carefully nurtured by you has rewarded you with a scent that ‘out-scents’ any artificial air freshener ever invented. That is the power of the Hyacinth. Hyacinths originate from Western and Central Asia and they are a member of the lily family. The most common species is Hyacinthus orientalis but it has been so hybridised over many decades that it is probably unrecognisable from the original.

The bulbs are quite easy to grow, either in pots indoors, in spring bedding displays or containers outside. ‘Prepared Hyacinths’ are those which you buy in autumn, pot up in free draining but moisture-retentive soil (specialist bulb fibre is best), whereby you plant them so that the neck of the bulb is just proud of the surface. Then you store them in a cool dark place until the bulbs show signs of growth (about 5cm/2 ins). You then bring into the light and give them a good drink but not too much warmth until you see the flower stem beginning to grow away. Then you can bring them

Bideford Music Club

Tinto their final position indoors, again not in too much heat but in good light. Water when the compost shows signs of drying but be careful if you’ve planted them in a container without drainage holes.

It’s a little late now to do this but you should be able to purchase ready planted bulbs from good garden centres. Try not to be tempted to buy those which are already flowering because they’ll go over in a few days. Instead, buy those which are showing signs of the flowering stems growing and bring them into a cool, light room before moving them into a warmer environment.

Potted bulbs can become top-heavy and flop over when in full bloom, so you might need to prop them up with some twiggy sticks, and if possible, put some moss or gravel over the soil which will help to retain moisture.

Once Hyacinths have finished flowering, remove the spent stems and place them in a cool light place to die back. These forced bulbs can be planted in the garden and will eventually revert to their wilder form with multiple stems but can still create a pleasing display, nevertheless.

Garden Hyacinths should be potted anytime from now until the end of December for a spring display. Those grown in containers should again be planted with their necks just above soil level. For those to be planted as bedding, it’s a good idea to pot them into 9cm/3in pots first whilst the weather

he next concert at St. Marys Church will be on Sunday 11th January at 3pm when we welcome MZ Duo, a Canadian saxophonist David Zucci and a Spanish accordionist Mikeleiz Berrade. Their repertoire includes traditional works, modern compositions and improvisation. The programme will include works by Grieg, Ravel Piazzola. On Saturday 10th January, in collaboration with the Burton and the Friends of the Burton, the MZ Duo will present a programme at the Burton based around the artwork and musical interests of Joan Miro at 4pm, tickets £10. Advanced booking is essential as space is limited. Please contact Pam Thompson gthomp1059@aol.com for more details about the Saturday concert. The concert in February will be on Sunday 1st February at 3pm when guitarist Arie Dakesian will bring warming music from around the Mediterranean.

is poor, to get them started. Plant into well drained soil in a sunny position, if necessary, incorporate sharp grit or sand at the foot of each bulb to aid drainage. There are many colours to choose from nowadays but for the best scented, white, blue or pink Hyacinths are probably the best.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Gardening Year from Fleur

Devon Sensory Outreach Service

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visits The Bickford Centre, South Street. EX38 8AA on 1st Wednesday every two months: next visit 3rd December.

Anne Humphreys, Rehab OfficerHearing Impairment Sensory Team 07966 596881 or 01392 386611

Microsuction&Irrigation

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB

Families Welcome

Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool

Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY

Large function room for parties/weddings

Check out our Facebook page for dates of upcoming live entertainment

Contact Sharon 01805 622543

Pause for Thought

Christmas is just a few short weeks away, so are you ready? We all know it's a busy time, so much to think about and so much to stress over. Gifts, food, family, visiting, cards to write, presents to buy, food to buy and prepare. Have you made your cake and puddings yet? But is all this really necessary? What are we celebrating, is the real meaning of Christmas being swallowed up in all the hype and clever advertising? To have a really good Christmas you simply must have this brand of chocolates, biscuits or cake?

There is a saying that goes "Jesus is the reason for the season" and that's it in a nutshell; He is God's gift to us and that is what we are celebrating. We give gifts to remind us that He is the greatest gift of all. Everyday each of us receives another gift in the form of 1440mins. How do we spend them? Some, of course, in everyday tasks and employment but maybe over this special Christmas period you could set aside a few of those minutes to remember the baby born in a stable, laid in a manger, visited by shepherds and wise men. Jesus, God's son, who is still changing men and women’s lives today. Perhaps when you put up your decorations you could include a nativity scene or Christmas card with a stable scene on, just as a reminder to be thankful that Jesus came to live among us and 30 or so years later died on a cross to save us all and give us eternal life.

Jesus said, "I have come to give them life and life in all its fullness".

We have 1440 mins each day to live a full and thankful life. O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

You will be made very welcome at any of our local churches’ Christmas celebrations and carol services, or to find out more about Jesus’ birth and life you can call Trisha 07866 861 156 or Karen 07890 132 081.

We both pray you will have a peaceful Christmas and a blessed New Year.

Beaford Village Hall Market, Café & Tabletop Sale

Held on the second Saturday of every month from 9.30am-12pm.

An opportunity for you to treat yourself to a delicious breakfast bap, hot drink and home baked cake whilst browsing our busy indoor market. We usually have a large variety of stalls (all under cover) for you to browse. A raffle is held at each market, with the draw taking place at 11.45am.

Free on-site car park. Disabled access and parking. Books and jigsaws are available to borrow. If you’d like a stall, either in the hall or outside; please email elliepearce.77@icloud.com. Visit www.beafordvillagehall.com.

Come & enjoy the magic of Zumba!

Dance , exercise & most of all have fun!

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

First Class Free - no tie in

Thursday 6.15pm-7.15pm

Contact Wendy to book your free class t: 07787 607 322 e: wendy.cox@btinternet.com Scout Hall , Gas Lane Torrington EX38 7BE

North Devon Choral Society

Next

Concert at the Parish Church of St. Michael and all Angels in Great Torrington on

Saturday 6th December at 7.30pm, Donizetti Requiem, Lotti Crucifixus, Schubert Mass in G.

Tickets £20 - free for children and students, available from Torrington Jewellers, Walter Henry’s Bookshop, Bideford, Tarka Books, Barnstaple and also from choir members, at the door, or by phoning 07414 255 500 www.northdevonchoral.org.uk. For any further press details contact John Hedge 07414 255 500.

North Devon Choral Society has also announced the two other concerts in its 2025/6 programme

Saturday 28th March 2026, St John Passion - J.S. Bach at Torrington Church. Conducted by John Hobbe with professional soloists and a full orchestra.

Saturday 4th July 2026, Elijah –Mendelssohn Church of St John the Baptist, Newport, Barnstaple 9DT EX32. Conducted by John Hobbs with professional soloists with proceeds to choir and to church funds.

Garden & Landscape

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

LOGS FOR SALE

Tel: 07971533 235

Welcome to Active Torridge

We manage the local pools Torridge, Torrington & Holsworthy. Our friendly & welcoming centres offer something for everyone in the local community. With great value memberships on offer or PAYG we will ensure you reach your goals & enjoy the journey.

Come & join one of our Group Exercise classes: We offer something for everyone, from Aquafit to Pilates, all ages & abilities welcome. For more information, please see our website www.activetorridge.co.uk & select your chosen centre.

Email hello@activetorridge.co.uk with any enquiries.

Rosemoor Events

Winter Sculpture Exhibition until Saturday 31st January

Admire work by artists from all over the country set against a beautiful backdrop of winter textures.

Magic of Christmas Food and Craft Fair Saturday 6th – Sunday 7th December

Bring your gift list to the Garden Room and browse and buy beautiful crafts and handmade delicacies for your friends and family, made by the best local artists and food producers.

Glow 2025, selected dates from Friday 21st November – Tuesday 30th December

As twilight falls, on selected dates from Friday 21st November, RHS Rosemoor near Great Torrington will transform into a world of magical winter wonders where you can admire the garden’s dramatic architecture in a whole new lightilluminated by thousands of glittering lights.

Step into an enchanted garden where twinkling lights dance across curated landscapes, where every path leads to a new discovery, and where the spirit of the season glows brighter than ever. Expect immersive experiences, breathtaking light art, and enchanting trails that celebrate the beauty of nature in winter, accompanied by music to lift your spirits.

This year the sparkling route incorporates a total of seven brand new, atmospheric light and sound

Open for takeaway & eat-in

Monday 5-9pm Tuesday to Saturday 12-2pm, 5-9pm

Open on Bank Holidays

NEW MENU AVAILABLE!

Phone orders welcome!

installations for you to discover, and also takes in the newly refreshed Winter Garden, designed by award winning Jo Thompson. What’s more, as you explore the trail, beautifully illuminated artworks created by talented UK sculptors will reveal themselves, as well as pictureperfect moments and opportunities to become the stars of the show with family and friends.

Kick start your festive season by booking tickets for the opening weekend and become part of the show by wearing your brightest and most colourful outfits – you could just win a VIP package

including annual membership, a festive hamper and Restaurant vouchers! You can even do a spot of Christmas shopping before you leave, with everything from beautiful baubles and a huge selection of Christmas trees and plants to unique gifts and stocking fillers in the Garden Centre on your way out, so you can bring the magic home.

Houseplant Weekend Saturday 24th –Sunday 25th January

Browse and buy houseplants of all shapes and sizes and get expert advice about which ones to choose and how to help them thrive.

Taffs Fish & Chips shop providing quality fish & chips since 1958. Thank you for your continued support.