Torrington Crier April 2019

FREE April 2019 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.

THE NOW FULLY RESTORED

GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN & COMMUNITY HALL is OPEN FOR HIRE! An ideal venue for:

Receptions & Business Functions Parties & Corporate Events Anniversary Celebrations & Quiz Nights Concerts & Exhibitions * Beautiful oak-panelled room licenced for Weddings and Civil Partnerships * * Premises Licence and large commercial-style kitchen for your own catering needs * * The glazed Undercroft, visible to the general public, is excellent for fund raising activities, charity events, or a pop-up shop *

Special rates for local residents Call Helen Rumbold on 01805 625662 or Anne Tattersall 07971 696 192 Disabled Access. Visit: www.greattorrington-townhall.org.

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Bray’s Garden Services is a family company covering Torrington and all of the North Devon area. We specialise in hard & soft landscaping with an emphasis towards more natural design including paving, stonework, turfing, planting schemes and natural ponds.

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

Why not have your landscaping done in the spring so you can enjoy the garden in the summer?

Visit: www.braysgardens.co.uk Tel: 01237 452361 or 01271 320724 Mobile: 07932 457 921 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?

Contact us...

Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 01805 603152 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon.

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

Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 01805 601964 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £24 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £48 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.

Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk Town Distribution: Dy Darch Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community Printers: Toptown, Barnstaple The Crier is produced 10 times a year by The Crier Community Interest Company, a social enterprise, and aims to support the local community and local businesses, by providing a publication in which news, events and information can be shared throughout Great Torrington and the rural district. Production costs are covered by advertising income. We would also like to thank Great Torrington Town Council for their support.

We would be very grateful if you could please ensure you inform any advertiser of where you saw their advert.

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

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.

Web site 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.

Commons News

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pril is always a beautiful month on the Commons. The starry white wild garlic flowers are out by the river and the bluebells might just be peeping out by the end of the month.

The birds are starting to nest and, if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a lizard or even an adder!

We are very pleased to hear that Great Torrington Commons was awarded a second 5-star award at the SW in Bloom Seminar. It is lovely to have others notice what we all know in Torrington, that the Commons is a very special place. Many thanks to everyone involved in this, especially Cherry from Torrington in Bloom for her time and support.

More good news; the plan for the new playpark at the Old Bowling Green is now well under way, and we are having various site visits with different suppliers to finalise the best choice for local families and visitors alike. We hope you will be able to enjoy our new playpark in 2020!

Thank you to everyone who supported our Race Night. This was held in conjunction with the Cavaliers at Torridge Vale Social Club on 2nd March.

A fantastic night with much humour was enjoyed by everyone, and it raised £418 for the Cavaliers and another £418 for Great Torrington Commons. It was a superb evening and for those of you who missed this year, we are hoping for a repeat performance next year!

The Friends of the Commons have been clearing sycamore saplings along Rolle Road recently. Sycamore is not a native tree and it grows very quickly, outcompeting our native species. Because it comes into leaf earlier than oak or ash, it also shades out the woodland spring flowers which have adapted to flower before the trees come into

leaf. If you would like to get involved with volunteering on the Commons, please get in touch either by email clerk. conservators@gmail.com or Facebook – Torringtoncommons.

We’d like to give people warning that Millennium Path, from the back of South Street carpark down towards Rolle Road and Taddiport, will be closed from March 18th for a number of weeks. This is to allow SWW to install some drainage pipes. We are very much hoping that it will all be finished by May week, so the Round The Tree Race can follow its usual route.

You may have noticed that the river turned a disturbing milky colour for a while a few weeks ago.

This was due to a discharge from the Clay Works at Peters Marland. While this is legal, you can be sure that we are monitoring the situation and any problems arising very closely.

A few reminders. We have spent a lot of time and effort on establishing horse trails on the Commons, so please would horse riders not use the footpaths intended for walkers. Some of the paths have been badly churned up with hoof prints recently, making it difficult for people to walk. Metal detectors are not permitted on the Commons; again damage has been caused by people digging up the ground in recent weeks.

Finally, our next fundraiser will be an exhibition of Al Mitchell’s collection of historical artefacts that he has found during his many years of working on the Commons. This will be held in the Undercroft of the Town hall on 27th April Please come along and find out more about our lovely Commons.

Mandy Harrison Vice Chair GTTC

Great Torrington Commons Management Plan

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he Board of Conservators are currently studying a draft management plan which has been prepared for the five year period from autumn 2019 to autumn 2024. The Commons were formerly maintained as part of a husbandry regime based around grazing, which is no longer practical, whilst machine cutting and removal of herbage is limited by available resources. As a consequence the Commons are gradually reverting to woodland. To a degree this has to be accepted, and the current task is to determine the grassland and heathland communities that merit retention and can be effectively sustained. Recent approvals for built development, most notably the old creamery site and the former meat factory, abut the Commons and have considerable implications for landscape, wildlife and the pattern of use by local residents because of their scale. Other similar commons have either had management plans in place for some time (Tunbridge Wells) or are planning to do so (Wimbledon).

The aim of the management plan is to establish a permanent process to inform future planning and provide the framework for day-to-day maintenance operations. The plan divides Great Torrington Commons into a number of different regimes based on the type of wildlife habitat and the nature of human use. This will allow the Board, employees and the public to be aware of the basis on which the Commons are being managed and the underlying reasons. The management plan is intended as an on-going process with annual reviews and up-dating every five years. There will be a public consultation period running from midApril to mid-May 2019 when local residents will have the opportunity to comment on the proposals. It is intended to make final amendments to the plan and formally adopt it by the end of June.

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May Fair Celebrations 2019

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ay Fair and Carnival are almost here. We have our two sets of royalty: the May Queen and her entourage and the Carnival Queen and attendants, and planning is entering its final stages. We look forward to seeing our sons and daughters taking part; catching up with family members who will return to Torrington for its biggest day of the year and, most of all, that moment at 12 noon on May Fair day when, accompanied by our very own Torrington Silver Band, the May Queen will make her way up the square to be crowned.

We also have entertainment in the Town Square all day – see the May Fair programme for information about that: available from all the usual places.

Great Torrington’s May Fair celebration takes a lot of hard work and commitment from all involved. The current May Fair and Carnival Committee works with just a small group of people, and with 199 tasks needing to be done, it has become increasingly difficult.

on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout April to enable draw tickets to be sold * Help with practical matters for, and during, the Wednesday evening practice session * Help with stewarding on May Fair day * Help with putting chairs away on May Fair afternoon * Help with stewarding at the Carnival These are all very practical needs, and we really do need help from the town’s people to make sure that May Fair continues. However, these events can only keep going for our children and grandchildren if volunteers come forward and get involved.

If you have some spare time and could help with one or more of the activities, please get in touch with the May Fair Secretary either through a message on our Facebook page, or by email: gill61clayton@gmail.com.

A note to those in wheelchairs or are disabled, there are seats/space for you outside The Green Lantern in the square – due to health and safety regulations these are difficult to access after 10.15am, so try to get there before then.

Fancy entering the Carnival? Go on, Before Christmas we used Facebook you know you want to! Entry forms are to ask for help with some of these tasks available from The GTTC website, The and managed to get one volunteer: a May Fair Facebook page and Xanadu huge thank you to Sue Harrison, who Grocer’s on South St, Torrington. Please is going to organise the May Fair Draw. note that all vehicles must have the However, we still need help for tasks appropriate insurance, and entrants are both big and small. not allowed to consume alcohol during Examples are as follows: the event. Coming to see the Carnival? * Help with moving the heavy ticket Please be aware that some roads and booth from the Town Hall across the road streets in Torrington will be closed at 9.30am, and back again at 12.30pm, between 6 and 8pm and also, please

Mollie Banfield

Massage & Sports Therapist Castle Street TORRINGTON EX38 8EZ m 07854 805336 e mbsportstherapy@outlook.com

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do not throw coins at the floats. Don’t forget, Rowlands fairground will be here all May Fair week too.

Finally, please support The Mayor’s charities: the North Devon Hospice and The Torrington Memory Café by buying May Fair draw tickets which will be on sale in the Town Square; you can also donate by putting money in the collection buckets during the Carnival.

We, on the Great Torrington May Fair and Carnival Committee, wish you all a wonderful May Fair!

Gill Clayton, Great Torrington May Fair and Carnival Secretary

Sports Massage Deep Tissue Massage Hot Stone Massage Relaxation Massage Ultrasound Kinesiology Taping Biomechanics & Mobilisation Trigger Point Therapy

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ith May Fair week fast approaching, the traditional

MAY FAIR INFORMATION

* May Fair: For health & safety purposes, can wheelchair users assemble early in The Square on May Fair day please * May Fair: Volunteers are needed to put away chairs after the May Fair celebrations from 4.30-5pm * Carnival: Entry forms can be found at Xanadu, the Great Torrington Town Council website, the May Fair Facebook page, and from paulinebaker3@hotmail.co.uk * Carnival: Absolutely NO THROWING OF COINS at the Carnival floats and walkers, and NO ALCOHOL * Carnival: Remember that from 6pm on Saturday 4th May, there will be disruption on the roads around Great Torrington until the end of the Carnival at 8pm.

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reat Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School has been a hive of May Fair activity recently, with votes and draws taking place for the much sought after Entourage roles. The children displayed maturity and support for each other throughout the selection process and we are delighted to confirm the selected Entourage for 2019. Rehearsals are now underway in preparation for the main event on Thursday 2nd May. Pictured: Front Row L-R: Martha Heal (Attendant), Jemima Mitchell (Crowner), Frankie Potts (May Queen), Dotty Scoynes (Attendant) Middle Row L-R: Kensi Johnstone, Libby Childs, Millie Watson, Faye Thorne, Willow Parkhouse, Alisha Bradley (Attendants) Back Row L-R: Di Davey (Mayor), Sidney Hill and Billy Williams-Rice (Heralds), Margaret Brown (Consort)

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May Fair Entourage for 2019

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‘Round The Tree’ race will once again be part of the annual celebrations.

Organised

by Torrington Amateur Athletics Club, the challenging three-mile route takes in some of Torrington’s most spectacular views. From the start, the course takes runners down through the commons and into Taddiport, around the tree, then a reasonably level middle section following the river along Rolle Road before a final climb past the monument and back into the town.

Every year runners of all abilities take part; from the experienced athletes to those new to running, and see this as a challenge. This year’s event takes place on Friday 3rd May. There are separate races for juniors, women and male runners. Race entry can be completed before the event, please find the entry form at torringtonaac.co.uk or sign up on the evening.

The last few years have seen an excellent turnout. So, either as a spectator or as a runner, we look forward to seeing you there. Fancy dress is not essential, but always welcome.

Good luck to all runners.

TAAC

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* Freelance Florist - Locally Based * Bespoke Wedding Flowers - Free Consultation * Beautiful West Country Seasonal Flowers * Special Occasions * Corporate Events * Funeral Flowers * Environmentally Friendly Funeral Tributes * Free delivery within 10 mile radius Tel: 01805 938946 Mob: 07533891380 • 27 South Street, Torrington, EX38 8AA Visit: www.tinahodgson.com Email: tina-hodgson@hotmail.co.uk

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Qualified & Experienced Landscape Gardener For all your gardening needs large or small Call Stuart 07971533 235 Great Torrington Town & Community Hall A New Chapter

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feel sure that the original Trustees of the Buildings Preservation Trust, under the Chairmanship of Dr Harry Cramp M.B.E and formed in 2003, would never have thought it would be 2019 before the Town Hall was completed. As the current Chair, I am proud that Harry’s dream has finally been achieved. I must also mention our previous Chair Richard Phillips, who did so much to move the project forward. Thank you to all the organisations, schools and individuals who have helped over the years.

A special thank you to all the traders, and people who live in the square, for their patience while the final phase of work has taken place.

If you would like to look around and missed the Trustees’ open day on 30th March, we will be happy to arrange a visit, please contact me on 01805 625662 or Anne Tattersall 07971 696 192.

Richard Rumbold Chair, Gt Torrington Buildings Preservation Trust

Business Development Officer - Here to Help!

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rom the 1st April, I will be working as Business Development Officer for the Trustees of the Great Torrington Town & Community Hall. The appointment is for 12 hours per week, but I hope to be available as much as I can during the first few months to welcome anyone who would like to come have a look around the building.

The Great Torrington Town & Community Hall belongs to the people of Torrington - the Trustees are simply the custodians who have worked tremendously hard for almost 10 years to raise enough funds to ensure our Town Hall is now one of the grandest buildings in town, which will be run as a sustainable business venture. We have a license for wedding ceremonies and the main hall can sit up to 120 people.

There are other rooms which can be used for various functions.

Please come along and see for yourselves. I’m sure you will be immensely proud of what the Trustees have achieved. If I am not around when you are passing, please ring me on 07971 696 912 and we can arrange a mutually convenient time and date to come along for a tour and share any ideas you might have for using the space that we have available.

Anne Tattersall

Time on Your Hands?

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he Great Torrington Community Development Trust and the Great Torrington Futures Group work on projects for the economic and community improvement of the neighbourhood. Our projects are based on local consultation and currently include the appearance of the town; signage and information; developing a new town website; gardening; tourism; fundraising.

We are always looking for help; the commitment is flexible depending on your availability and project preferences. For further information please contact Phil Topham on 01805 628 219 or philtop@hotmail.co.uk.

Thanks…

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ollowing my recent heart surgery I have much to be thankful for; the support and kindness of family, friends and neighbours and numerous wishes for a speedy recovery.

A special thank you must go to our local district nurses, without whose help and support during a particularly difficult phase of my recuperation, I could not have managed. The professionalism and sympathy shown to both myself and my husband I will always remember.

So thank you to everyone who has aided my convalescence with their good wishes, emails, cards and get well gifts, and to a kind and supportive medical team. It is these things that make living in Torrington so special.

Stephanie Easton

Torrington Library News & Children’s Events this Month

* Saturday Egg hunt - (4-11 yrs) 13th April 10.30am – 12pm Find the egg, make the word, eat the chocolate! * Craft Club (4-11yrs) Saturday 27th April 10.30am -12.30pm * Lego Club (5yrs +) Saturdays 10.30am-12.15pm, 6th and 20th April * Spanish Story Time (pre- schoolers) Hola amigos, Lucia is taking a break this month but will be back on Tuesday 21st May 2-2.30pm * Stories & Songs A ‘join in’ session for 7 years and under. Thursday 18th April, 10.30 -11am. This is an open library session.

Moving on…

In March we wished a fond farewell to Lisa and Jennie who have moved on to other positions within Devon Libraries. We are sad to say farewell but delighted for their progression. Thank you both and good luck.

Friends’ Quiz The Friends of Torrington Library hosted an evening quiz at The Black Horse, raising funds to support events and activities here at Torrington Library. It was a really enjoyable evening, thanks to all our Friends and especially quiz master, Dy Darch.

Kate Greaves, Supervisor, Torrington Library

Torrington-Roscoff Exchange Group

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ast month we held the first of the regular gatherings we’ve scheduled for this year. The season’s opener, this year as last, took the form of a buffet Canadien – the French term for what we know as an American, or ‘bring and share’, supper.

Our members brought along a wonderful selection of French dishes – all homemade of course. We started with bouillabaisse and quiche and moved on to coqau-vin, boeuf bourguignon, poulet basquaise, raclette and tarte aux oignons, with ratatouille, gratin dauphinois and salad on the side.

It was hard to choose between these classics of French cuisine, and in fact many of us didn’t: we went for the easy option, a morsel of each. Whether it was wise to continue that tactic when faced with the tempting array of puddings, including the classics tarte tatin and profiteroles, I couldn’t possibly say.

A certain amount of wine (French, naturally) was consumed, which helped the evening along nicely. And while the more mature members chatted, the youngsters – ages ranged from 8 to really quite grown up – played word games that entailed much raucous laughter.

So, as you see, age is no barrier to joining us (and nor is lack of knowledge of the French language). If you’re tempted to join us at our next buffet Canadien to sample some delicious French cuisine, don’t be shy, get in touch by calling Nick on 01805 625765 or Antony on 01271 549454.

Concert to Support Young Musicians

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oung Musicians Support is a charity that encourages and helps children across North Devon who have enthusiasm and talent for music. It gives grants to families who are finding it difficult to meet the cost of lessons or instruments, and creates opportunities for schools and their pupils to work with professional musicians and to enjoy topquality performances.

A major activity this summer is a series of three concerts in Torrington, in St. Michael and All Angels Church, all featuring prize-winning musicians with international reputations. Alongside each concert, the musicians will visit a school for a workshop or concert. The programme is: Thursday 25th April ‘Three Centuries’ Andrea Emanuele – piano. Music by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Liszt and Rachmaninov.

Saturday 18th May ‘Contrasts’ Rose Hsien - violin and Andrew Hsu – piano.

Music by Brahms, Strauss, Elgar, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Debussy, Kreisler.

Thursday 27th June ‘Imagination’ The Stradivarius Trio. Music by Clara Schumann, Schubert and Elgar.

All concerts start at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12, £30 for all three, from The Plough Arts Centre.

Michael Downward, Young Musicians Support

Instant Images Embroidery We work closely with our customers to offer quality embroidered and printed garments.

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46 South Street, Torrington Tel: 01805 938002 instantimages.devon@btinternet.com www.instantimagesembroidery.co.uk

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banner

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countless litigation, our town is in the project, which would havehall included

• Adult Bikes • Child Buggies • Child Bikes • Services •Tandems • Repairs • Disabled Tag-alongs • Wee-Hoo

A Roborough Diamond Jubilee Club has been formed to raise funds for

the future position of the Christmas tree, the Town Council

ACUPUNCTURE

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ERRY’S

Food for thought I think!

Anne Bacon

H

OME

H

ARDWARE

01805 938502 07711 079 577

With registered practitioner Lynne Parkyn MBAcC 07795 073966 for appointments or enquiries

Bluecoat’s Reading Stars Shine Bright

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ome along to Rosemoor Gardens on Sunday afternoon April 28th where, starting at 2pm the Rolle Canal and Northern Devon Waterways Society are holding a display and update of works on the Rolle Canal.

After a very brief formal AGM of the Society, there will be reports on the projects underway, plus possibly a speaker on West Country Canals.

Then a short walk through the gardens will lead to the Canal Basin and wharf which is now in an advanced stage of restoration. Here one can visualise the horse drawn tub boats bringing coal and limestone up the canal from the port of Bideford, to be burnt in the lime kilns of Rowe’s Moor to provide fertiliser for the improvement of local agriculture.

This afternoon event is free and open to both members and non-members of the Canal Society. Why not make a day of it and spend the morning exploring the nationally-famous gardens (normal admission charge), lunch at the Rosemoor tea-rooms and then enjoy the Canal event in the afternoon?

The programme of monthly summer Sunday afternoon guided canal history walks is being prepared now and will be available at the AGM event. All the walks will, of course, be announced in the appropriate month’s edition of the Crier - - so make sure you read your Crier each month and don’t miss out!

Chris Hassall Rolle Canal Walks Organiser

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stories.

n Thursday 7th March, pupils and staff celebrated their love of books and reading by participating in World Book Day. There was a fantastic array of costumes and characters and the school devoted the day to sharing

Friends of Torrington Library

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n 24th February, The Friends of Torrington Library held a very successful quiz at the Black Horse, raising £252, which will go towards funding the Summer Reading Challenge for the children of Torrington. Thank you to the Black Horse for hosting the event and to Xanadu, Lloyds Chemist, the Plough, CoOp, Fine Floral Design, Lloyds Pharmacy, Duffy’s Home Hardware and Eastmond House for supplying the raffle prizes.

On Tuesday 4th June we are holding our AGM. If anyone is interested in attending, please email scbury47@gmail.com for details. All welcome.

And finally, please put a note in your diaries to save 10th November – we will be holding another ‘Murder Mystery’, as the last one was hugely successful and such great fun. Watch this space for details nearer the time.

Friends of Torrington Library

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12 Cornmarket St, Torrington, EX38 8EY

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Windows • Gutters • Soffits Conservatories Wall & Cladding Cleaning (soft method), Roof de-moss • Patios • Driveways, etc.

Can help with a variety of health issues The Well St Clinic, Torrington, on Fridays

Rolle Canal AGM at Rosemoor

All Shines Window Cleaning Services

Tarka Valley Railway News

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ince my last update, there has been a great deal of activity on site with much work carried out in preparation for track laying, digging, drain repairs plus many tons of stone delivered and laid ready for installation of sleepers and track. Weather permitting we hope to have track panels laid by the time the Crier goes to press. Restoration work on our rolling stock continues and shop stock has been ordered and checked ready for the forthcoming holiday season.

We are “steaming ahead” at a great rate but, as always, volunteers are needed in all areas; particularly on restoring the carriage itself and a volunteer coordinator. Please see us in the carriage on a Thursday to find out how you can help.

Weekly updates and photos can be found on our Facebook page or visit www.tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk.

Rob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

Christian Aid Lent Lunches

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he next Lent Lunch will be held on Friday 5th April in the Methodist Church (top of Mill St) between 12 noon and 1.45pm, with a choice of homemade soup, rolls with butter, cheese, chutney, and a cup of tea or coffee for £3.50. The final Lent lunch will be held on Friday 12th April at the Parish Church. These lunches are hosted by the Baptist, Holy Family, Church of England and Methodist Churches. All are welcome, so please come along and help support the work of Christian Aid. Torrington Christian Aid Committee

Tower and Spire Restoration Project Complete!

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know you will be delighted to see the people who have tower and spire of St. Michael and made the project All Angels Parish Church revealed possible and brought from its scaffolding shroud and restored it to completion. in splendid condition after over a year of We are immensely specialist work. grateful to the This a matter of great achievement Heritage Lottery and thanksgiving. A local resident Fund for their commented that he thought the generosity, and to spire now looks straighter and more local organisations and individuals rounded than it did before. An optical without whom the project would’ve been illusion perhaps, but maybe the spire impossible. is standing more proudly now that it The Church will be open throughout has been carefully restored. So as to the May Fair Flower Festival (10am – ensure the new work dries, hardens 5pm) daily with floral displays on the and strengthens theme of ‘Times sufficiently, we are “May I take this opportunity to thank and Seasons’. sorry that our peal local residents for their patience and Entry is free, and of bells cannot forbearance during the restoration refreshments ring out for a few works. It has ensured the future of the will be available months yet. town’s historic Church at the heart of each day.

Carrek Historic On Friday the community.”

Buildings 3rd May at 7pm Restorers have done a superb job, everyone is invited to the Festival Organ often battling the elements in difficult Recital to be given by Peter Stevens conditions. The golden cockerel of Westminster Cathedral. Admission weathervane – nicknamed ‘Torrie’ is is free with a retiring collection. Peter again resplendent atop the spire, his will play magnificent works showcasing gilded metal in finer fettle than for many the fantastic church organ, which ranks a year! as one of the finest in the country.

To celebrate completion, we are Everyone is welcome to come along. having an exhibition about the project May I take this opportunity to thank as part of the Church’s May Fair Flower local residents for their patience and Festival (2nd - 5th May) on Friday 3rd forbearance during the restoration May. More details will follow in next works. It has ensured the future of the month’s Crier. The tower room and bell town’s historic Church at the heart of the chamber will be officially reopened, and community. we hope that people will be able to climb Looking forward to May Fair. at least part of the tower to see the bells.

All good wishes, We will formally thank the many Peter Bevan, Vicar

The Castle Community Centre Lizzy’s Larder

You will be sure to receive a warm welcome when you visit Blackberry Farm.

In our tearoom you will find some of Devon’s finest Entry is FREE produce, with beautiful Dartmoor views.

Open 7 days a Our traditional family run farm shop is full of week.

01409 261440 delicious homemade food, local crafts and gifts, and Milton Damerel don’t forget to visit our friendly animals or join us on one of our farm tours.

Nr Holsworthy Visit: www.Blackberryfarmshop.co.uk EX22 7NP

Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Now available for hire!

A multifunctional room with garden, based at Castle Hill, Torrington Ideal for private parties & group meetings.

• Adjacent to public car park • Self contained kitchen facilities available • Wifi available • Catering by Café @1646 • Regular bookings welcomed • Competitive rates For booking rates & details contact Susie and John Golightly 07917 651 938 Genesis (Great Torrington) Ltd, Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Tel: 01805 626100 (Admin office Tues, Wed & Thurs 9.30am–12.30pm) Email: genesis@great-torrington.com

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS YOUR COUNCIL... WORKING FOR YOU! Great Torrington Annual Parish Meeting

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here can be, and often is, confusion between the Annual Parish Meeting and the Annual Council Meeting of the Parish/Town Council.

All Parish and Town Councils throughout England are required by law to hold an Annual Parish Meeting, which must take place between 1st March and the 1st June (inclusive). Meetings should not commence before 6pm. The Meeting in 2019 is planned for 11th April at 7pm in the Town Hall.

The purpose of the Annual Parish Meeting is that the Town Council can explain what it has been doing over the last year, and it enables the electors to

have their say on anything they consider is important to the people of the town.

The Annual Parish/Town Meeting is a meeting of all the local government electors for the Parish. It is NOT a meeting of the Town Council, which the public can participate in. Anyone may attend, but only registered electors of Great Torrington Parish may ask questions or speak generally. Any registered elector may ask questions of the Council, which will usually be answered by the Chairperson, the Clerk to the Council, or a designated Councillor. An elector may also make suggestions and comment on anything pertinent to the people of Great

Torrington. This will be welcomed and is the whole purpose of the meeting.

The Chairperson of the Town Council will chair the meeting. It is usual for councillors to attend, but the purpose of the meeting is to enable ordinary electors to have their say. Councillors will listen with interest and, as electors themselves, also have the opportunity to raise questions and make comments if they wish.

A written record of the meeting will be taken and will be presented at a future meeting of the Council for their consideration.

Karen Chapman Town Clerk

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otice is hereby given that the Great Torrington Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Thursday 11th April 2019 at 7pm in the Town Hall, Great Torrington.

The Mayor of Great Torrington will submit a report on the Town Council’s activities during 2018/19.

Consideration will be given to any matters raised by Registered Electors who reside within the parish of Great Torrington.

Karen Chapman, Town Clerk

Pre-Election Purdah

Castle Hill Opening Hours Library Book Renewals

01805 622107 0345 155 1001

New Opening times Tues 10am-6pm, Thursday 10am-5pm, Fri & Sat 10am-1pm

Café & Garden @ 1646

01805 626146

Open Mon – Sat 9am-4pm

Tourist Information

01805 626140

Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 4pm. Wed, Fri & Sat 10am – 1pm

Torrington Town Council

01805 626135

Tues, Wed & Thurs 9am-1pm answerphone available

Citizens’ Advice Bureau Torrington

03 444 111 444

Tues 9.30am-12.30pm drop in

Community Development Trust

01805 626100

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Genesis/Pannier Market Admin

01805 626110

Tues, Wed, Thurs morning

Heritage Museum & Archive

Annual Parish Meeting

Contact Sue Scrutton 01805 622391 or Val Morris 01805 622306

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here will be no articles from the Mayor, Town Council and District Councillors for April and May 2019 due to pre-election requirements for ‘Purdah’. This stipulates that councillors cannot use their current position to the advantage of other candidates, nor use Council resources for their campaign.

(The Crier receives some grant funding from the Town Council.) The Town Council will submit a full report in time for June’s Crier once we know the outcome of elections.

Torrington Let’s Talk

Tuesdays 12 –2pm at Castle Hill Are you living with a mental health issue? Do you experience emotional distress? Are you suffering with depression, anxiety or loneliness? Let’s Talk is a safe, supportive group environment professionally facilitated by qualified counsellors working with Clarity, a registered charity which offers therapeutic counselling, group support and group therapy to anyone experiencing mental health or emotional issues.

Our aims: * Improve quality of life and increase self -esteem and positivity * Raise personal awareness and gain greater understanding of your issues * Give you an opportunity to help others through shared experiences * Relieve isolation and loneliness If you are interested contact Clarity on 01271 267474 on Tuesday or Thursday or email us Clarity.northdevon@yahoo.co.uk.

Proudly sponsored by Torridge District Council, Devon County Council and supported by Great Torrington Town Council.

Torrington Festival Saturday 14th September 2019

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e are currently busy booking bands and acts for this, our third festival, on Saturday 14th September. We aim to have a varied programme for the day and evening, including a variety of genre of music, various historical events along with a number of artistic contributions. The day will have something for everyone! We also want to encourage our local talent to get involved. If you are musical and would like to be considered for a slot, please contact Dave Gibbons on dclaytongibbons@ gmail.com - if you would like a stall or to get involved from an artistic/heritage point of view, or any other way, please contact Cathrine Simmons on cathrinesimmons@ hotmail.co.uk.

Check out our Facebook page on www. facebook.com/TorringtonFestival.

Watch this space for further information!

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

Eight great holiday cottages • Prettily situated Comfortably priced • 1-5 bedrooms • Spacious indoors & out Gardens for play and relaxation Outdoor summer pool, table tennis, pool table, wi-fi

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

6-7.15pm

Please call WENDY on 07787607322 or email wendy.cox@btinternet.com Class includes optional weigh in, motivational talk and 45 minutes of Zumba Fun

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CHURCH STREET STORES DOLTON

K. Sheppard

Plasterer

FREE QUOTES Loose covers, recovering, and full re-upholstery of antique, modern and automotive furniture.

EX19 8QE Tel: 01805 804205

General Building Maintenance Ceiling Specialist, Internal Alterations, Re-skims & Artex Removal

Open Monday to Saturday 6.30am - 8.00pm Sunday 8.00am - 7.00pm Convenience Store & Post Office

8 Clinton Gardens, Merton, Okehampton, Devon EX20 3DP

01805 603016

07813 257 471

www.churchststores.co.uk for our latest offers

Merton 01805 603924.

Personally Supervised

by Andrew & Janice Gist www.themaltscoop.co.uk/info@themaltscoop.co.uk Excellent home-made food served every day 12-2pm/6-9pm Great selection of01805 wines, 622364 real ales, ciders Open fire and snug rooms

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Are there any old Toll-Houses left around Torrington?

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he Great Torrington Trust made use of eight toll-houses around the town, but only three can still be identified. The Rothern Bridge Tollhouse, which stands in the fork where a steep minor road turns off to Frithelstock from the main A386 about a mile out of Torrington, is a very good example of a traditional angle-fronted toll-house. There would have been space for a toll-board above the projecting ground floor window overlooking the road, or over the porch.

It was occupied in 1871 by ‘toll collector’ John Tucker and his wife.

Town Bridge Toll-house is a Grade II listed, square built, classically inspired toll-house next to Taddiport Bridge. It was built by the Great Torrington Trust in around 1830, alongside the town’s Canal Offices that, in 1874, became the Torridge Vale Butter Factory. This company, by then known as Dairy Crest, closed down in 1993 and the house faces the dilapidated remains of the factory buildings. Census returns of 1871 show 33-year-old ‘Farmer’s labourer and toll-collector’ Robert Mitchell living at the house with his wife and daughter.

An unusual two-storey house which stands in Calf Street opposite East Street, where the roads from Barnstaple and South Molton enter the town, was probably the Calf Street East Tollhouse. It is in the right position for a toll-house and possesses a blanked out window suitable for a toll-board on its tall projecting front gable. In 1841 the ‘Toll-gate keeper’ is recorded as 55-yearold John Hill. Still recorded as the ‘Calf Street Toll Bar’ in the Census of 1871,

it was then occupied by 53-year-old Rebecca Copp and her family.

Other toll-houses which no longer exist include Rosemoor Toll-house, which stood near the junction of the presentday A386 with the A3124, and was used to catch travellers coming from the direction of Morchard Road and Exeter.

In 1871 it is recorded as the ‘Row’s Moor Toll-Gate’ with 71-year-old Chelsea Pensioner Joseph Hammon in residence.

A new bridge over the River Torridge was constructed in 1843, to carry the new main road into the town from Okehampton and Hatherleigh, and New Bridge Toll-house was built on the west side of the bridge. In 1871 the ‘turnpike gate toll-collector’ is recorded as 44-year-old Sarah Hammet, in residence with her four children.

After New Road was built into the town, a turnpike gate was constructed at the west end of Calf Street, which probably also had a toll-house. Another toll-bar operated at the western end of what is now Dick Hills Lane, to catch travellers from the direction of South Molton who tried to evade tolls in Calf Street. Although retaining the name of

‘Castle Garden Lane Toll Bar’ in 1871, the house was occupied at that time by 71-year-old ‘Master Shoemaker’ Richard Hill and his family, and may by then have stopped being used by the trust for collecting tolls on this road.

There was another toll-house built at the junction of the road into the town from Weare Giffard, where School Lane joins New Street. The toll-house has long since been demolished, no doubt a victim of road widening, but was occupied in 1871 by ‘Glover and Toll-collector’ Fanny Piper and her two children.

In 1880 toll gates throughout North Devon were sold off as the old toll road system had come to an end.

Moira Brewer

Summer Solstice Cruise on the MS Oldenburg

Friday 21st June 2019 he Northam Care Trust is celebrating the Summer Solstice by hosting a charity fundraiser on the MS Oldenburg on Friday 21st June from 7.45pm. We will leave Bideford Quay for a two hour sailing around the Taw and Torridge estuary.

We have a brand new sound this year from The Smokey Mountain Boys, who will be playing the toe-tapping sounds of bluegrass, and you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy, alongside a fully licensed bar.

Tickets cost £16 (adult), £8 (child) and can be purchased directly from our website at www.northamcaretrust.co.uk.

T

Fully qualified tradesman

For a friendly reliable service from a local tradesman ring:

T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603

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Saturday 4th May & Sunday 5th May he Bradworthy Arts Festival will take place in ten different venues in and around Bradworthy village.

A huge variety of art forms can be experienced: photography, jewellery, paintings, glass work, ceramics, textiles, spinning, weaving, sculpture work and much, much more.

Many of the artists and craftspeople will share their expertise and give visitors

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This and canal basin Centre for 11+ @ 5-7pmhedge area last year don’t create work for the festival on the an increasing Square.

Clubplease 7pm Juniors Plough supports population of Badminton a bowl of water and some theme of ‘UNITY’: a schools project, Visit www.bradworthyartsfestival.co.uk Adults @ Bickington Commun Theatre Multi Storey: Beauty & The Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade (a them, placing it inside a fe pairs competition @ Beast @ The Plough a community read project, an2pm online to orchid) find out more aboutCribbage our many venues, green flowered which, Film 'Cloud Atlas' 7pm @ programming The Arms 8pm and all the projects. photographic open competition, and a (15) artists, 'Cloud Atlas' Plough note early start forWe long filmforward to Film group exhibition of artists. look welcoming you! (15) 7pm @ Plough note early start for long There will be tasty food on offer - wood CRIER COPY DEADLINE for Wednesday Professional Builder, Carpenter & Damp Specialist 17th ‘MAY 2013’ by 12noon St Michael's Church Said Ma today pleaseWorks  Damp Surveys & Remedial ee James Chapel inFrSt

Hickfords Property Services Local Independent Florist

Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator • Interior and exterior painting • Paper hanging • No job too big or too small

depending on the season, Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am Rolle Canal & Northern Saturday 13th flowering at the of the Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Advice Surgery with Geoffre s a Business and Intellectual Property Centre Waterways SocietyAbbeyfield Guided WalkNews The start of time the walk i Morgan for an appointment ring 01237 we follow a programme and ethos developed new season's programme enjoyed the early The The Church of Jesus Christ of esidents Latter of Kiln, on the Weare Giffa email to tellgeoffrey@geoffrey th by the Business and Intellectual Property Sunday walks starts on 26 Day Saintsafternoon meet @ Bideford College spring weather and www.geoffreycox.co.u are looking Halfpenny Bridge, at website May with a visit to the site of the Centre at the British Library, London, providing support Abbotsham Rd, Bideford, EX39 3AR Coffee Morning in aidThe of Wem dis Sunday 26th May. forward to another good Inclined Plane at Ridd.

This is the Church to business owners, entrepreneurs and inventors. There Sunday Sacrament service at 11.50amChulmleigh Town over a@mile but with plenH summer. place where the Rolle Canal are currently 11 Business and Intellectual Property 1pm cakes, produce, draw is prizes a and discuss likely have welcomed a new member was'Hitchcock' raised up(12A) about3pm 43They feet Film @ The Centres across the UK. Major Walker MC couple ofCeremony hours. A of staff, having sadly said goodbye to a fromcollection the valleyoffloor near Plough Memorial 11am At the Centre in Barnstaple Library you can access a comprehensive £2 (see to article) the R serving one. Taddiport Tea Weare Giffard to a level Film 'Argo' (15) 7pm @long The Plough Dance 2-4.30p online databases, including Cobra and IBISWorld, publications and attend practical Society's fund have beenDoug planned for622648 the or Beryl 'Russell Kane' @Outings Devon Hall in the side of the valley 01805 0a workshops, FREE one-to-one advice sessions and inspiring talks.Comedy appreciated next few months and624294 we hope to be 8pm that could be maintained enable the Soc Our trained business champion team, work alongside industry experts to to spend time out in 'Great our lovely all the way inland able to the Film Expectations' 7.30 volunteer work provide guidance and information on a range of business issues. Our collection Monday garden.

High Bickington Cinema head weir 8th at Rosemoor. promote and maintai of databases and publications can be used to research trademarks, patents, Historical & Talksseen 'Beamour Abbeyfield Music Coope Boyes & Simpso Don’t forget Spring Many Society people AGM will have the Rolle Canal. Future wa registered designs, copyright and other intellectual property (IP) issues.

House & Quay' & John Coffee Oatway The Plough this site on previous walks but this year th at Morning on Friday 5th April will be 16 June, 28th Ju You can find Barnstaple Business & IP Centre on the first floor ofTorrington Barnstaple Clockmaker 7 for 7.30pm @Road, there have been developments over from Glen Tor Villa 10.30amAugust.

For further details Library during library opening times: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9-6, Weds Satthat 9-5.

Methodist Church Sunday 14th the10-6, winter will make it well worth 12pm.

There will abe stalls, refreshments email: hassallc@ymail.com Film 'Wreck it Ralph' (PG) 2pm @ The Upcoming workshops are: Torrington Methodist Church repeat visit. The and Heritage a raffle.Lottery All are welcome to comebut you'll p 01237 Plough Rev Peter425357, Whatton 6.30pm Mr * Thursday 28th March 2-5pm – An Introduction to Business Planning with Angie funded ‘Life's Journey’ project has and see the house and meet the to leave a message.

Film 'Argo' (15) 5pm @ The Plough Sheriff Taffs produced a new pathway from the C Film 'Lincoln' (12A) 8pmresidents. @ The Plough St. Michael’s Church 10am S * Friday 17th May 2-4pm – Turning a Hobby into a Business with Angie Taffs Tarka Trail down to the the Webottom have aofvacancy at Glen Tor, and Ignatius Sunday Club in upper Inclined Tickets for workshops are £5 (£2.50 concessions) and can be booked via Plane where two illustrated if you would like to find out more about (15) Tuesday 9th Film 'The Sessions' 3pm Our Hedgehogs Need Yo information boards have been installed Eventbrite www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/devon-business-amp-intellectual-propertyFilm 'Lincoln' (12A) 5pmAbbeyfield, @ The Plough Theor Plough for yourself a loved one, Hedgehog Awareness W to describe the saltmarsh habitat by centre-10906433333 or at the library.

Film 'Hitchcock' (12A) 8pm @ along The to the coffee come morning or way but why wait until th Torridge Are you willing to share your expertise? Do you feel able to run Plough athe workshop or and the workings and Monday 15th give our House Manager a call help?

Asonspring is here purpose of the Rolle Canal.

It is now give a talk to aspiring entrepreneurs? We can’t pay you, however, you will have Singing for Fun 01805 623605 to arrange visit.

You7.30-8.30pm and ahopefully the weathe possible to gain a far better the opportunity to promote your business. Email lisa.d’alberti@librariesunlimited.

Wednesday 10thcan be sure of a warm Bickington Community improves our spikyCentre friend welcome. understanding of the lay-out and org.uk for more information.

St Michael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Mini Mover Dance Session will be up and about agafo the inclined plane boat lift 9.30-10.30am @ Bickington in workings St James of Chapel C It’s been an extremely tou than wasW.Ipreviously theHall case.

Torrington @ Methodist 7pm The Centre winter for them.

T upper basin of 8pm the canal the top of Film 'I Wish' (PG) @ TheatPlough Bradworthy Arts Festival

Business & IP Centre at Barnstaple Library

 Woodworm & Rot Treatments Friday  Kitchen 12th & Bathroom Design & Fitting StMichael's Church Said Mass 8.30am Property Maintenance • Funerals in St Weddings James Chapel  Extensions Theatre Scottish Falsetto Puppet Giſt bouquets  Landscaping Decking Theatre 7pm @&The Plough

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

estim friendly ad ates & Short Tennis vice HNC @ High Bicking , NVQ and Institu Centre 4.30-5.30p WCommunity ood Prese te of rv in g & Legion 3rd We Royal British Damp -Pro ofing month @ GT Conservativ qualifi7pm ed

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Film 'No' 8pm @ The Plough Atherington Acorns, fun, frie Gallery Gig 'Judith Christie & Diane for parents & children aged 0-5 Hickford 623376 Calvert Contact 8.15pmColin @ The Plough C.S.R.T—Tel 01805 9.30am-11am @ Atherington P Mob: 07976 936 465 Email: hickford208@aol.com every Wednesday term time.

Please call Melissa Baker on 07846 857 933

Ar�angements

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36 Bur�ood Road, Tor�ing�on, Devon EX38 7NE.

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Torrington Players

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ell hello everyone! You may have noticed that we have been quiet for quite a while… Many of you will know that we put our energies in the autumn into working alongside The Cavaliers to put on a Christmas Panto. And what a great time we had. We do hope that it will be the first of many collaborations (and that the great acting talents in The Cavs will enhance some of our future productions). Talking of which – read our exciting idea below: Christmas Crackers by John Godber ‘It’s a late Christmas night outside a busy A & E department and Keith, the security guard, is taking a breather from the hectic chaos inside. Whilst there he has conversations with nurses, an ambulance driver, a street girl and a children’s entertainer, amongst others. In his imagination though Keith is far away; standing on the Charles Bridge in Prague watching Kath the nurse dance before he makes his move, no longer a security guard but a suave college lecturer, quite at home in the mystical, ghostly and magical aura of the city. From the bleak realities and madness of the hospital at Christmas, to the expressionism of Keith’s imagination, we are taken on a journey from who we are to who we would like to be, through the experiences of many at Christmas for whom there is no candy coating.’

If you would be interested in being a part of this production in any way: actor, set design and construction, costume, marketing, stage managing, assistant director, then please come to a meeting on Monday 29th April, 7.30 pm at the Plough Arts Centre. You will have a chance to take a closer look at the play, ask questions and meet the director. Open auditions will be held shortly afterwards. If you cannot make that date but are interested in taking part please contact Paul Cockman on paul_ cockman@btinternet.com.

Torrington Garden Society

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t our March meeting Howard Wills shared his experience of Yellowstone National Park. Being a plantsman as well as inveterate traveller, there were plenty of insights into the native plants as well as the grizzly bears, bison and geysers.

In April we welcome other local gardening groups to our annual quiz. This year we shall be holding it in the newly refurbished Town Hall, and we expect our visitors to be impressed.

Aside from the winds of Storm Freya the winter has been mild. The ‘tete-a-tete’ daffodils in the flower bed (near S&G Carpets) have been looking good, and the tulips and alliums will be making a good display in April.

On Tuesday 7th May we welcome as our speaker, Sally Nex. She writes regularly in the RHS ‘The Garden’ magazine. Her talk will be on the bugs and slugs that plague us gardeners. We meet at the Methodist Hall at 7.30pm. Visitors and new members are most welcome.

Sally Ramsden, Hon Chair 01805 623152

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Bag a Bargain The Results are In!

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espite the onslaught of Storm Freya on Sunday 3rd March, a massive £1,125.90 was raised from the ‘Bag a Bargain’ charity event held at Torrington 1646 Community Centre, in aid of North Devon Against Domestic Abuse and our local Alzheimer’s Society. This was an event that involved so many people: Tesco Barnstaple, Lidl Torrington, Aldi Bideford, Asda Bideford and Barnstaple and Torrington Unique Boutique.

Promotion via Torrington Crier, North Devon Journal, North Devon Gazette and social media platforms was excellent.

To everyone involved, especially the people who donated quality clothes, footwear, jewellery, homemade cakes and quiches and other items, and those who helped with set up and on the day, I thank you one and all. Together we created an awesome community event which was great fun and brought so many people together. It also raised a fantastic amount of money and helped highlight the profile of domestic abuse and dementia – your combined efforts will make a positive difference to both these worthwhile charities.

Working together makes for a better community – shame our politicians can’t do the same and create a better world!

Anne Tattersall

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts

‘

Skills for Life’ - as Scouts we are guided by these values: care, respect, integrity, co-operation, belief. We design our activities and programmes around the above to enable the young members to learn and develop confidence in themselves and the world around them. Each section works towards activity badges, which in turn link towards an overall ‘Challenge Award’ for each section: bronze, silver and gold. In the Scout and Explorer Scout sections, the older members can work towards other awards such as Duke of Edinburgh, Ten Tors Challenge, Queen’s Scout Award, Young Leader etc. which provide valuable skills for life and future opportunities such as university and careers.

In the last few weeks our youngest members, the Beaver Scouts, have been working towards their Cook’s Badge making pizzas and pancakes. Many also took part in a joint District Scouting event, with around 60 Beaver Scouts. This was held at the Holsworthy Scout Group, where they celebrated St Patricks Day, fancy dress and lots of Irish-themed activities took place. They have also been learning about healthy foods and keeping fit.

Our Cub Scouts have been busy working on their DIY Badge, learning about different DIY tools, how to use them and keep safe. They then put this to use and made a garden bird feeder – lots of hammering and sawing. They

have also been working on their Home Help Badge, learning skills at home and in their Cub meetings i.e. ironing, sewing, cooking, cleaning.

The Scouts enjoyed a fantastic evening recently, hosted by Great Torrington Town Council, The Mayor and her fellow Councillors. The Scouts were invited to a mock Town Council Meeting and elections took place for Scouts to become Mayor, Deputy Mayor

and Town Clerk for the evening. The Scouts had provided items for the agenda to be debated: play park usage and the future of the old dairy factory – and each item was discussed. The Scouts showed their maturity and skill in debating complicated and difficult subjects. It was such an insight for them to see how decisions within their community are made, who knows for some it may even set them on a political path for the future. We would like to thank everyone at the Town Council who made this event happen.

All of the above activities have been amazing fun for our young members, as well as providing them with lots of new skills and experiences to build upon in the future.

The funding we recently received has been put to good use, and we now have new heating, lighting and windows – the hall feels like a different place. The final works to take place from these funds will be new guttering and fascias. The funding to enable this work to be carried out was received from the Coastal Recycling Community Fund, which provides funding through the Landfill Communities Fund and from Devon County Council.

If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Beavers (age 6-8), Cubs (age 8-10), Scouts (age 10 -14) or if you feel that you may be interested in helping in any way - please contact Kirsty Pells on 07887 557574 or email kirsty.pells@btinternet.com.

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What’s On in Great Torrington?

At a loose end? Need to find a new hobby or activity? There should be something here for you!

If you run a sports club or community activity in Great Torrington or the surrounding area, or the exisiting information we have needs amending, please send details in to: torrington.crier@gmail.com.

Monthly diary events are on page 12, making it easier to find what’s on!

SUPPORT & FRIENDSHIP GROUPS FOODBANK Tuesday 10am-12noon at the Baptist Church and Saturday 10am-12noon at Castle Hill Singing for health, for older people, those with dementia and their carers. 10.30am-12pm, Torrington Community Hospital. £1.50 donation per session. For details call 01805 622666.

(First & third Wed of the month) Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Wed of the month 10.30am-12.30pm @ Phase 1 Common Room, Ethelwynne Brown Close, East the Water Bideford Men’s Shed: Football Club, School Lane 9am-12.30pm.

Come and see us in action, every Tuesday & Thursday.

Contact Colin on 01805 624030 Memory Cafe 10.30am -12.30pm, Methodist Church at the top of Mill Street. Every second Thursday Torridge Gingerbread Group, every Monday, 10-12 noon, Bluecoat Centre, Beach Room (usually) email: torridgegingerbreadgroup@outlook.com or find us on

Facebook.

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

‘Hearing Loss Support Group’ Social group via our bus at Bideford Pill Car Park, (opposite the Burton Art Gallery), every first Thursday of the month between 2 and 4pm. Call 01271 373236 The Jolly Dollies is a social support network for widows, offering support and understanding in a social setting. Meets twice monthly in Torrington. For further information please go to www.thejollydollies.com to discover more about us.

Torrington Friendship Club for town residents - over 65.

Weekly social event, every Thursday Methodist Church Hall 2-4pm. Contact Margaret Woodman 01805 622096

HEALTH, SPORT & FITNESS (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club training above TVSC, Mondays 6.15pm boxers; Tuesdays 6.30pm Recreational boxers (fitness); Wednesdays 6.30pm carded boxers only; Thursdays 6.30pm Recreational boxers (fitness), Fridays 6.15pm boxers; Saturdays 9.30-11am Junior BoxFit (6 to 10 year olds) Running club every Monday & Wednesday at 6.15pm meet at GTS gym Rugby Training 6.30-8.30pm every Wednesday Wendy’s Fitness for Life classes every Thursday at the Scout Hall Gas Lane 07787 607 322 Slimming World Join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street.

Tuesdays 5:30 & 7:30pm. Thursdays 9.30am,11.30am & 5.30pm. Lisa 07515 256 965 Junior Golf Training every Sat 9-10am @ Libbaton Golf Club Fitness with Friends: Castle Community Centre Torrington, gentle exercise class, every Monday weekly in term time, 2 -3.30pm, £3 donation, 01805 622666 Badminton Club every Tues 7-8pm juniors, adults 8-9pm @ High Bickington Community Centre 01769 561387 Short Mat Bowls 2-4pm every Mon & Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre.

Short Mat Bowling at the Clubhouse, Castle Street. Every Monday and Friday 2pm or 6pm. Visitors will be made most welcome. Secretary John Pitts 01805 439100 or visit www.

REGULAR CHURCH SERVICES

Gt Torrington Parish Church Services: Thursdays 10.30am Said Mass, Coffee morning 11am-12.30pm; Fridays 8.30am Said Mass; Sundays Parish Church Eucharist 10am & Sunday Club Encounter. Modern worship, exploring faith, meeting with others. Encounter God. Great coffee and cakes.7pm High Bickington Community Centre. Every second Sunday.

Catholic Church of the Holy Family Mass every Sun 9.15am Torrington Methodist Church, services at 10.30am & 6.30pm every Sunday, please see diary for any changes.

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greattorringtonbowlingclub.co.uk Hatha Yoga Thursdays 10-11.30am, Castle Community Centre, South Street, Torrington, 01805 93812 or 07789 020 668. Email: ruthchambers@gmail.com Pilates in Yarnscombe on Mondays & Tuesdays, contact: Sue 07896 326 024 email sue.spiritunleashed@gmail.com Function Fitness classes 01805 622719: Mondays: X-fit 7am, Spin 9.30am, Total Balance 10.30am, Spin 5.30pm, Pump 45 6.30pm, Hiit circuits 7.30pm Tuesdays: Pump 9.30am, Spin 6.00pm, Legs, Bums, Tums 7pm Wednesdays: X-fit 7am, Spin 9.30am, Youth Inductions 3.45pm, Boxfit 6pm, Ergo rowing circuit 7pm Thursdays: Pump 9.30am, Barre Concept 5.30pm, Spin 6.30pm, Pump 45 7.30pm Fridays: X-fit 7am, Spin 9.30am, Kettlebells & bars 10.30am, Spin 6pm, Pole Fitness 7pm Saturdays: Spin 8am, Pump 9am, Barre Concept 10.15am Sundays: Sunday Circuit 8am, Spin/core/stretch 9am Pilates with Lou Banfield ‘LB Movement’ @ Function Fitness: Mondays 12.15pm & 1.30pm, Tuesdays 6pm & 7pm, Wednesdays 1.30pm, 5.45pm & 6.45pm, Fridays 10.30am Authentic Wado-Ryu Karate-Do “Ken Shu Kan”, Function Fitness. Classes for beginners Mondays 7-7.45pm (12yrs+) Thursdays 6-6.45pm (6-11yrs) & 7-7.45pm (12yrs+) Saturdays 1.30-2.15pm (12yrs+), www.devonwadoryu.co.uk

Grosvenor Church Torrington, The Plough10.30am, with an exciting children’s programme. Every Sunday. Tim 07798 670 754.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meet @ Bradford Village Hall, Holemoor, Bradford, Holsworthy, EX22 7AB. Sunday Sacrament service 10-11am Torrington Baptist Church, services every Sunday at 10.30am.

St Giles, Little Torrington all services at 11.15am

CHILDREN’S CLUBS, TODDLER GROUPS & PRE-SCHOOLS 1st Torrington Rainbows at Torrington Rugby Club every Monday term time 6.15-7.15pm l torringtondistrictguiding@ talktalk.net 1st Torrington Brownies at Torrington Rugby Club every Mon term time 6.30-8pm Kathryn Masterson 01805 623212 torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net 3rd Torrington Brownies at Torrington Baptist Hall, every Wed term time 6.30-8pm Emma Keil torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net Beaford Guides at Beaford School Tuesdays term time only 7.15pm till 8.45pm Bridget Wade 07830 797 050 or email BeafordGuides@outlook.com Beaford Rainbows will meet at Beaford school on Tuesdays 4.15 till 5.15pm for more information please contact Leanne 07842344302 or Email rainbows@girlguidingbeaford.co.uk Beaford Brownies meet at Beaford School on Tuesdays 5.30pm till 7pm contact Bridget Wade on 07830 797 050 or email beafordbrownies@outlook.com 1st Torrington Guides at Torrington Rugby Club every Tues 7-8.30pm Linda Masterson 01805 623212 1st.torrington. guides@gmail.com SCOUTS IN TORRINGTON - All Scouts groups meet at the Scout Hall, Gas Lane. Contact for all groups is Kirsty Pells on 07887 557 574 or email kirsty.pells@btinternet.com 1st Torrington Beaver Scouts (age 6-8) meet during term time on Tuesdays 6-7:30pm.

1st Torrington Cub Scouts (age 8-10) meet during term time on Mondays 6-7:30pm 1st Torrington Scouts (age 10-14) meet during term time on Monday 7:30-9pm.

Youth Club for 11+ 5-7pm @ High Bickington Community

Centre ALLSORTS Children’s Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 6.30-8pm. School years 1-6. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 ALLSORTS Plus Youth Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 8-9.15pm. School years 6 and upwards. Phone Morag on 01805 625510 Little Otters Baby & Toddler Group, every Friday, 9am-11.30am, at The Clinton Hall, Merton Little Fishes Toddler Group at Baptist Church every Thurs term time 9.30am -11.30am £1.50 per family.

Jill 01805 624387 Toddler Group 9.3011am every Thurs @ High Bickington Community Centre Little Frogs sessions Mon – Fri 8.45am-3.45pm term time, Gas Lane, Torrington, contact - 07870 509 674 Little Otters Pre-School, at The Clinton School, Merton MonThurs, 9am till 3.30pm, with lunch club 12–1pm, term time.

For more details 01805 603357 admin@clinton.devon.sch.uk Grow Curious Toddlers, every Friday 9:15am. Grow Curious Babies, every Friday 11:15am, both at Torrington Children’s Centre to book visit grow.org.uk or call 01271 371961.

LEISURE, HOBBIES & ENTERTAINMENT (ADULTS & CHILDREN) Plough Workshops: every Monday: Yoga 6:30-8pm; Folk Orchestra 7-9pm; every Tuesday: Yoga 2:30-4pm; Adults ballet 6:30-7:30pm; Ploughcappella 7:30-9pm; every Thursday: French Conversation with Sylvie Guers 6-7pm; Sapta Dance 11am-12:30pm; Tai Chi 2.15-3.15pm. every second Thursday Open Mouth Music & Poetry 8pm; every Friday: Sarah Anne Westcott School of Dance 4-7.15pm; Art on Friday, twice per month 10.30am-2pm; every Saturday: Plough Youth Theatre 9:45am-5:15pm; first Sunday of the month: Plough Story Telling Circle 2.30-5.30pm Bideford Camera Club meets on Tuesdays, 7:30pm, at Bideford Methodist Hall, 60 High Street, Bideford. Phone: 01237 421391, email: enqs@bidefordcameraclub.co.uk.

Taddiport Tea Dance 2-4pm Doug 01805 622648 Beryl 01805 624294 all welcome (every second Saturday) Tai Chi 12.30pm every Thursday, Torrington Community Hospital. Ageing Well on 01805 622666. £2.50 donation Cribbage pairs comp, third Wed of the month, Torrington Arms 8pm Tarka Pottery Adult Pottery Classes every Thursday in term time:10-12 noon, 1.30-3.30pm and 7-9pm 07931 306 414.

Every Tuesday in term time: 10-12 noon and 7-9pm t: 07931 306 414 Papercrafts & scrapbooking club every Thursday 7-9.30pm, The Owl Barn Studio, EX22 7LW, £2 bring your own project or try something new, 07853 319 250 or owlbarnstudio@ btinternet.com English Folk Dancing 8pm every Fri @ Northam Village Hall with Bideford Ceilidh Club. Info John 01237 476632 Writers Poets & Listeners every first Thursday 7.30pm Conservative Club Tarka Valley Railway. Volunteers meet every Thursday from 9am till about 3pm at Torrington Station (the Puffing Billy), unless weather is appalling. Variety of tasks. 07881 905 260.

Bingo at St Giles Parish Hall, eyes down at 7.30pm, last Thursday of the month Torrington Craft Group, every Monday 1-4pm in the

Methodist Church Hall £10 per month or £3.50 per session including refreshments, Jeanne Singleton 01805 622650 Torrington Silver Band practice Mon & Weds 8-9.30pm @ Howe Concert Hall Nick Megson 01805 622150 Cash Bingo TVSC 7.30pm every Mon Hobbies Arts & Crafts Group Langtree Parish Hall every Tues 10.30-12.30pm £1.50 inc tea & coffee Sylvie 01805 601485 Probus Club meets at the Black Horse, High Street, Torrington, 10am. Every fourth Thursday.

Torrington Rotary Club meet weekly on Tuesdays at Torrington Golf Club (6pm for 6:30pm) - Secretary Rick Smale on 01805 622419. Prospective members, and members from other Rotary Clubs most welcome.

Learn Bellringing for free: Most Mondays 7.30pm at Monkleigh Church and Wednesday, 7.30pm at Torrington Church, contact - Clive Ward 0771078 885 or monk2364@icloud.com Art on Friday meets every second and fourth Friday at The Plough Arts Centre 10.30am-2.30pm. New members always welcome. Contact Hazel 01805 623757.

Great Torrington WI meets second Wednesday of each month excluding June (outing) & August (picnic). 7pm at the Methodist Rooms. Visitors & new members welcome.

Phoenix Line Dancing Club. Beginner/improver line dance classes at Weare Gifford Village Hall Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm.

All ages and abilities welcome. Ian 07833 720 050 or Marilyn 07825 278 405.

Dance & Tea with Mazzy B, afternoon tea, then an hour’s fun introduction to line dancing. Fridays 1.30-3.30pm Northam Community Centre 07825 278 405 Bideford Folk Dance Club 7.30pm Wednesdays in term time at Northam Hall. Further details from Chris on 01237 423554 Torridge Ramblers walk footpaths in the Torridge area with additional walks further afield. For details of the programme contact 01805 625485 or 01237 429080

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The Café and Garden @1646 Delicious organic soups, locally made bread and cakes All meat supplied by RS Wares. Free range eggs.

High Teas 2 days pre-order £12.95pp 2 for £25, £5 non- refundable deposit DOGS ON LEADS WELCOME IN THE FOYER ADJACENT TO THE CAFÉ & IN THE GARDEN. FREE WIFI. Open daily 9am-4pm, Wednesdays 10am-2.30pm, closed on Sunday

Castle Hill, South Street, Great Torrington EX38 8AA Tel: 01805 626146 Email: 1646@great-torrington.com

Diary

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

April 2019 Monday 1st

Plough Exhibition: ‘Radical Landscapes’ until Sat 20 April

Tuesday 2nd

Plough Workshop: Introduction to Making Pendants with Mary Myers 10am – 4pm Plough Films: Capernaum 5:30pm; Bohemian Rhapsody 8pm

Wednesday 3rd

Devon Sensory Outreach Bickford Centre 11-3pm Plough Theatre: Frozen Light ‘The Isle of Brimsker’ 11am & 1:30pm Plough Films: Tigers 5:30pm; Capernaum 8pm Plough Theatre: in the Gallery Studio Theatre ‘Dylan Thomas at 100’ 7:30pm

Thursday 4th

Plough Theatre: Frozen Light ‘The Isle of Brimsker’ 11am & 1:30pm Plough Satellite: ‘The King and I’ (encore) 7pm

Friday 5th

Plough Music: Elles Bailey 8pm Bingo Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes down 7.30pm

Saturday 6th

Quiz in aid of Torrington Food Bank, Taddiport Village Hall 7.30pm, teams of up to 6, £4 per head, including nibbles.

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Book 01805 622594, BYO drinks Atherington Easter Egg Hunt, Coffee Morning & Car Boot Sale 10am. Egg hunt in the playing field, £2 entry. To reserve an egg hunt prize please ring Sarah 01769 560537. Car Boot Sale EX37 9HY.Sellers 9am, 10am buyers, £5 per car. Stalls available £10 per table. Proceeds Atherington Church and Playing Field.

Breakfast rolls, coffee and cake 10am to noon, meat raffle, 1st prize £25, 2nd prize £15, takeaway available. In aid of Weare Giffard Village hall refurb/rebuild Plough Workshop: Words & Wildflowers with Adam Reeve 1pm Plough Talk: ‘Radical Landscapes’: Curator’s Talk & Poetry Readings 6–8pm Plough Music: The NewGrass Cutters 8pm

Sunday 7th

Plough Storytelling: The Haunted Inn and other Weird Tales at The Plough@St Anne’s, Barnstaple 3pm Plough Films: Accidental Anarchist 3pm; Cold Pursuit 7pm

Monday 8th

Second Part 5:30pm; Tigers 8pm

Thursday 11th

BINGO at Beaford village hall! Doors open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm. Bar, tea and coffee available. Free parking and cash prizes. Second Thursday of every month Plough Film: The Kid Who Would Be King 3pm Plough Satellite: NT Live: ‘All About Eve’ 7pm Plough Walk: Bygone Brothel Walking Tour at ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple 7:30pm Plough Poetry: Open Mouth Music & Poetry in the Gallery 8pm

MAY CRIER DEADLINE 12 NOON TODAY Friday 12th

Plough Workshops: The Lion & The Unicorn Play-in-a-Day (8-12 yrs) 10am4pm; Book Page Wreath Making at ThePlough@StAnne’s, Barnstaple 10.30am-12-30pm or 2-4pm Plough Music: An Evening of Johnny Cash & June Carter Music with Roseanna Ball & Ian Holleran 8pm

Plough Films: The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part 3pm; Alita: Battle Angel 5:30pm Saturday 13th.

Torrington Historical Society AGM Beaford Village Hall Market 10.30am to Methodist Rooms 7.30pm, new members 12.30am breakfast baps, coffee & cake welcome and a chance to buy from a range of stalls. Car washing £5. New stall holders Tuesday 9th welcome, please ring 01805 603199 or Plough Films: The Lego Movie 2: The 01805 603046 for details.

Second Part 11am; The Kid Who Would Be King 3pm; Alita: Battle Angel 5:30pm; Plough Music: The Afrocentrics (standing gig) 8pm Cold Pursuit 8pm Plough Music: The Shee at Little Torrington WI - Belly Dancing for fun and exercise with Lesley and Louise. ThePlough@TheGeorge, South Molton 8pm Little Torrington Village Hall 7.30pm Torrington Silver Band Easter Bingo Visitors welcome doors open 6.45pm eyes down 7.30pm, Wednesday 10th at Howe Concert Hall, Torrington. See Plough Films: The Lego Movie 2: The

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

article for more details.

Sunday 14th

Torrington Parish Church Palm Sunday - Palm Procession from the town square and Parish Eucharist 10am Plough Films: The Aftermath 3pm; Old Boys 7pm; Nex’t’Nothin - A Gallery Gig 7:30pm

Young ‘In Search of the Unknown Celebrity’ 8pm

Sunday 21st

Torrington Parish Church Easter Day: Easter Parish Eucharist 10am Torrington Methodist Church 11am Rev Rob Blackhall Holy Communion, 6.30pm Roy Harris Monday 15th Torrington Baptist Church Easter Plough Fillms: The Lego Movie 2: The Sunday Service 10:30am at the Baptist Second Part 3pm; Alita: Battle Angel 7pm Church, a time of celebration, food, fun and joy as we celebrate a risen Saviour.

Tuesday 16th

Plough Films: The Kid Who Would Be King 2pm; Alita: Battle Angel 4:30pm; The Aftermath 8pm

Tuesday 23rd

Plough Satellite: RSC: ‘As You Like It’ 7pm Plough Music: The Askew Sisters at ThePlough@TheGeorge, South Molton 8pm; Russell Bave - A Gallery Gig 8:15pm

Plough Theatre: Endless featuring N:Dless! 8pm

Wednesday 17th

Thursday 18th

Torrington Parish Church Maundy Thursday Celebration of the Lord’s Supper 8pm followed by quiet vigil Easter Bingo Burrington Parish Hall eyes down 8pm Plough Workshop: Beaded Spiders 2-4:30pm; The Last Baguette Pre-Show Workshop for 5-11 yrs 2:30pm Plough Theatre: The Last Baguette present ‘The Bird Show 4pm Plough Film: The Aftermath 8pm Plough Comedy: Shappi Khorsandi at ThePlough@TheGeorge, South Molton 8pm

Plough Films: Old Boys 5:30pm; Fisherman’s Friends 8pm

Wednesday 24th Thursday 25th

Plough Films: Happy as Lazzaro 5pm; Lifeboat and other Refugee Stories 8pm Plough Ghost Walk: Workhouse Tales and Haunted Tales of Derby area, Barnstaple 7:30pm Plough Concert: Andrea Emanuele Piano at St Michael’s & All Angels Church, Torrington 7:30pm Plough Music: A Retro Musical Soiree in the Gallery 8:15pm

Friday 26th

Plough Theatre: RBM present: ‘The Life & Times of John LeMesurier’ 8pm Torrington Auction Viewing 5-7pm Castle Hill

Saturday 27th

Torrington Auction Sale from 9am hammer up 11am Castle Hill Friday 19th Plough Walk: A Walk Back In time Torrington Parish Church Good Friday Through Barnstaple at ThePlough@ 12 noon Stations of the Cross,1pm Good StAnne’s, Barnstaple 11:30am Friday Liturgy Plough Social: Pie & Pint Night at The Torrington Baptist Church Good Friday Plough Café 6-8pm Service at 10:30am all welcome.

Plough Film: Fisherman’s Friends 8pm Plough Comedy: Shappi Khorsandi at Plough Music: High Times - A Gallery The Plough 8pm Gig 8:15pm Bingo Yarnscombe Village Hall eyes Sunday 28th down 7.30pm Plough Theatre: Strictly Ann – An Saturday 20th Intimate Evening with Ann Widdecombe Torrington Parish Church Holy 7:30pm Saturday Easter Vigil 8pm Tuesday 30th Plough Workshop: Introduction to Plough Films: Fisherman’s Friends Beaded Jewellery 2-4.30pm Plough Theatre: Murray Lachlan Young 5:30pm; Happy as Lazzaro 8pm ‘The Mystry of The Raddlesham Mumps’ (7 yrs+) 4pm Plough Comedy: Shappi Khorsandi at Lynton Town Hall 8pm; Murray Lachlan

Torrington RFC Juniors

L

ast week we hosted our first touring side and it was great to welcome Abercynon RFC youth to Torrington. We played games against their U7, U8, U9 and U10 teams and had a cracking morning.

Our U13 girls recently played at a very wet and windy Ilfracombe RFC in a combined training session with Barnstaple, Ilfracombe and Okehampton. They then combined to take on a very strong Sidmouth touring team. Although being on the wrong end of the result, they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

We are always looking for more players and coaches for all age groups, so if you would like to be involved, please get in touch.

If you have a son or daughter aged between 7 and 13, please feel free to bring them along. * U12 boys Fridays: 6.30-7.45pm * U7-U10 boys & girls: Sundays: 10am11am For any more information, please contact Adrian Avery (Youth Chairman) on 07780 665 378 or agavery81@ gmail.com.

Pannier Market News

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he Friday market has become established with a good mix of regular stalls and individual stalls such as Devon Time, fundraisers and bric-a-brac, so always something interesting to see and lovely people to chat to.

Saturday regulars are The Old Farmhouse Kitchen, Sandra’s Accessories, Elaine’s Makes and Bakes and Grantons’ Pies.

Last month saw the first Food Fair and the third Flea Market. Look out for more of these coming up. On April 13th there is an Arts and Craft market and a Holistic and Wellbeing event is planned for May, date tbc.

Thank you to all those who come along and support our traders. For more information and trader enquiries contact Kay on 07398 234 579, or check out the Torrington Pannier Market Events Page on Facebook.

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be hot! with

Slimming World

Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street, Torrington Every Thursday 5.30pm Contact Lisa 07515 256 965 slimmingworld.co.uk

Meet Your Local Slimming World Consultant

M

y name is Lisa Tucker, a local maid born and bred in Torrington. My family and I are well known in the town, and I am proud that my Grandad, the late Norman Dymond, was a Town Crier. I now dedicate my time and passion into helping local people lose weight and achieve those weight loss dreams.

I have been a Slimming World member since March 2013 and lost an incredible 3.5 stone in a year so I know first-hand that it really works! I now run groups in Torrington, and have successfully helped many members reach their own target weight with our food optimising plan.

I am extremely proud of the friendly groups that I run, and the supportive members and I are always ready to welcome new members who want to be able to lose weight, but never need to go hungry, and learn how to be healthy for the rest of their life.

I run a group on a Thursday evening at 5:30pm, plus many more to choose from.

If you would like to find out more please do contact me on 07515 256 965.

Not Just Travel’s First Birthday!

I

t’s fast approaching the first anniversary of me starting my own travel business in Torrington, and what an amazing first year it’s been! Thank you for the unwavering support I’ve had from the local community. In the last year I have arranged trips from Weston-Super-Mare to Western Australia. Cruises around Asia and road trips across the USA. Family holidays to the Mediterranean and honeymoons to the Maldives. Bucket list trips to see the northern lights and Broadway shows in New York City. It’s really been a huge variety!

A lot has changed in the travel industry since I first started as a YTS with Lunn Poly 38 years ago. Lunn Poly is no more, and gone are the days where I would hand write airline tickets. Some things, however, remain the same, and that’s my customers’ gratitude for the advice that I give, and suggestions that I make, to ensure they have a truly memorable holiday, no matter what their budget.

For those that don’t yet know me, I work from home in Torrington as this means I can be in contact with my customers during the evenings and weekends or as they need me. I do love to meet up with people though, and will happily meet you in a local café or come to your home for a chat to discuss your plans. My contact details are on my advert below. I am fully ABTA bonded, and all the trips I arrange are ATOL protected (or the equivalent for non-flight holidays). I can usually price match and sometimes beat offers that you may have seen online too!

Thank you once again for your support during my first year, and I look forward to helping the fab folk of Torrington with all your future travel plans.

Gillian Abram, Not Just Travel

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0344 897 8000

Acacia Arb for Your Tree Care

A

cacia Arb provides specialist tree care in North Devon. We are fully insured and NPTC qualified arborists, adopting modern and traditional techniques and always promote an environmentally sustainable approach for all our tree management services. Our extensive knowledge and experience ensure all tree works are carried out to the highest standards to benefit the health and conservation of trees. We always take a pride in our work and strive to find an understanding of our customers’ requirements.

We cover all aspects of tree work, from pruning to promote growth, enhance shape and regulate size, to complete tree removal for hazardous or diseased trees. Trees can also be subject to legal obligations; we can provide expert advice to submit tree/conservation applications through the planning permission process.

Acacia Arb is enthusiastic about conservation and can provide tree and shrub planting schemes for everything from an attractive orchard incorporating rare Devon varieties, to planting a natural hedge using a wide array of native/nonnative species to create biodiversity and regenerate gardens/woodlands. We also provide seasoned ‘logs’ or ‘woodchip’ as by-products, which can act as a mulch or natural covering for borders and pathways.

If any of your trees require attention please do not hesitate to contact us, we always provide free estimates so look forward to hearing from you.

Mobile: 07702 735 853.

Website: www.acaciaarb.co.uk.

Please remember to support our local businesses and ‘Think Local First’! To feature in these pages is free for advertisers, please contact Esther Williams on torrington.crieradverts@ gmail.com for information.

Chartered Town Planner Here to Help!

T

I understand what clients want from ree Tops Planning is managed the planning system and the level of by me, Lewis Andrews. I am a service that people expect and require.

Chartered Town Planner with I operate an over 27 years’ “I understand what clients want open and honest experience from the planning system and the service, and working in planning for Local level of service that people expect and therefore will require.” advise you of my Government in informal opinion North Devon.

This experience gives me an invaluable on whether your proposal is likely to receive permission or not. I also have understanding of local planning professional relationships with planning authorities and what is required to officers throughout the region, as well make the complex planning system work for you. I am able to provide the as unrivalled contacts with architects, following: general advice on all planning urban designers and technical bodies who will be needed to enable a planning matters; pre-planning advice – whether application to be submitted. your proposal is likely to gain planning permission; submitting a planning I attended school in Bideford and application; compile planning supporting therefore have a passion for the statements; submitting third party area which has been my home since childhood. I provide a free initial objections to planning applications and provide advice on relevant objection; informal consultation to discuss your present your proposal, or your objection, proposal and an informal site visit, if necessary, if the site is within the local to the planning committee; submit an appeal should your application area. Please call or email me if you feel I am able to assist you. Email: info@ be refused; act on your behalf on enforcement action and advise on listed treetopsplanning.co.uk, call 07854 590 503. building and conservation proposals.

What’s the Buzz about Gong Baths?

E

xperience a gentle sound journey that will leave you feeling refreshed, calm and clear-headed; that’s a Gong Bath. The sound of these ancient instruments is again being used to help heal and restore balance within bodies and minds, soothing and effortlessly inducing a deeply meditative state.

The sounds of the gong have a powerful multi-layered effect - physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. Whether you are experienced in meditation and regularly practice yoga or not, you will benefit from this extra time of sublime sound and relaxation.

Lying on a mat (or remaining comfortably seated) and using a blanket for warmth, surrender to the sounds that gradually suffuse the space around you.

A healing session of 1.5 hours including approximately 50 minutes of gong and sound journeying will leave you feeling calm, clear and rested.

For more information contact me at cass@cassandracollins.co.uk

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Berry Castle – Join Us!

W

ith early spring-like weather, we began our cycle of site management. Clinton Devon Estates kindly helped us out, by clearing the vegetation within the site, allowing us to begin this year’s maintenance programme.

If you are feeling energetic, then maybe one of our site maintenance mornings would be of interest to you. We meet every Tuesday, 10am-1pm, from the 5th March, where the focus will be on removing saplings from the monument.

It’s fairly easy work, for any age or fitness level and volunteers will be welcomed.

Just bring some gardening gloves and a flask and join our dedicated team in the fresh air.

For those who are working during the week, we will be organising further weekend working parties on the last Sunday of each month, starting on the 31st March, 10am-1pm. Please let us know if you intend to join us, so we have an idea of numbers and also, we can let you know if we have to cancel. Details will be on our ‘events’ page on our website, www.berycastlehuntshaw.com.

We held our AGM at the Cranford Inn, thank you to everyone who supported us.

We used this as an opportunity to share our ideas and discuss how supporters wanted the group to move forward this coming year. If you weren’t able to make the meeting, we would still value any comments or ideas you have. Please let us know your thoughts, by contacting us at berrycastle1@outlook.com.

We have arranged several events, coming up in the next few months:* A historical walk around Torrington on

Private William Vodden

Torrington in Bloom

J

ust to clarify, I am still a member of TIBA but no longer the Chairperson. I am also no longer the Secretary, but we are trying to share these tasks.

Members of TIBA recently attended a Britain in Bloom seminar in Chippenham, where we were delighted to receive a ‘5- Star Best Park’ award on behalf of the Torrington Common Conservators. Many congratulations, it is welldeserved and Al Mitchell received particular praise for his in-depth knowledge of the Common.

At the seminar, we also heard about the ‘Blue Heart Campaign’ which is aimed at preserving areas of land and gardens for wildlife habitat. An apt demonstration was made showing a Peacock Butterfly feeding on Buddleia, which is fine as the shrub provides a good nectar source, but unless there is a supply of nettles nearby, there is nowhere for this particular butterfly to breed (along with Red Admirals and Tortoiseshells). The talk did not advocate leaving your garden to ‘go to seed’ entirely, just allowing nature back in sedately!

The judging criteria has also changed in that the percentage of marks now awarded by the judges will be 40% horticulture, 30% community involvement, 30% environment (which includes clean pavements, street furniture, graffiti/litter-free, etc).

The school potato growing competition is now underway for children of Year 4, Bluecoat CofE Primary School. We should like to thank RHS Rosemoor for allowing us to use their facilities to enable us to fill the pots with compost, etc., as our usual venue has now closed down.

Cherry Hammon, Torrington in Bloom, 01805 625788 Saturday 6th April (please contact us for times and where to meet.) * Summer Dig – 3rd-10th July. Keep an eye on our website for updates.

We are organising an Easter Egg Hunt on Friday 19th April, 12-3pm, where children (and children at heart) can join us at Berry Castle, for an egg hunt and quiz. Bring a picnic lunch and make the most of the warmer spring days. Eggs will be hidden around

the site, each with a letter on. Find all the eggs, re-arrange the letters to form a phrase and collect your reward of chocolate eggs. We’ll also be trialling our new quiz, based around the information boards. Be the first ones to try it out and tell us what you think.

From Torrington, take the turning for Gammaton, to Huntshaw Mill, where signs for parking will be displayed.

Please don’t attempt to park at Foxes Cross for this event. We look forward to seeing you there.

W

illiam Vodden was born in from Monmouthshire. He joined the Buckland Brewer in 1888.

Kings Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment) The 1891 census lists and was entered into the 8th the family living at ‘Potheridge Battalion. His service number Cottage, Buckland Brewer’ was 28245. with a household of six The 8th Battalion was others. William’s parents are raised at Lancaster from Robert Vodden, born in St October 1914 as part of Giles in the Wood in 1857, Kitchener’s Third New Army. who works as a ‘woodman’ Following enlistment and and his mother, Elizabeth, born training, the first recruits landed in Great Torrington in 1861. at Le Havre by late September In 1891, William was 1915. The 8th Kings “...William was unmarried enrolled into Buckland Owns would see a and had no children. His wider Brewer Board School great deal of action family still live in the Great by his father, but in the French theatre, Torrington area and have helped including battles with by 1895 the family contribute to the information...” the Somme offensive had moved to Great Torrington where and the third battle of he was enrolled into Great Torrington Ypres.

School.

The Battle of Lys was part of the 1918 By 1901, the family can be found at German Spring Offensive and a last 87 Well Street, Great Torrington. Father, throw of the dice by the German forces Robert, now works as a general labourer, to force back the Allies around Ypres. whilst his mother is now employed as a The German aim of the Battle of Lys was silk glove maker. Older brother, John, is to capture Ypres and the surrounding still resident with the family, whilst there high ground. The River Lys formed a are now three younger brothers as well, barrier between two Allied armies. The showing a growing family.

First Army, commanded by General Finding William in the 1911 census Horne, was south of the river while the was tricky, partly as he’d moved away Second Army, commanded by General from Devon and partly as they’d misspelt Plumer, was to the north.

Torrington in the census collection.

As part of these month-long By this time, William had moved to engagements, the town of Bethune Monmouthshire in Wales, living at 3 Park was assaulted on 18th April 1918.

Street. He was living at this address as a Unfortunately, I have not been able to boarder. source any further information about I have not been able to determine an precise details of the battle. However, enlistment date for William, but records the 8th Kings Owns were posted at the show that his enlistment place was location with the 3rd Division of the First Pontypool, which is only a short distance Army. Despite the attempt of the German

Sixth Army south of the main thrust of the attack to break through at Bethune, these advances were repelled.

Records show that William Vodden was killed in action on 18th April 1918.

Notice of his death was reported in the North Devon Journal on 13th June 1918.

His parents are shown as living at 111 Well Street at the time.

Although William’s grave is unmarked, he is commemorated at the Loos Memorial at Pas de Calais. As far as I am aware, William was unmarried and had no children. His wider family still live in the Great Torrington area and have helped contribute to the information above.

To learn more about the life of Private Vodden, please go to www. greattorringtonremembers.co.uk; you may also wish to ‘like’ the Facebook page.

Michael Newcombe

Calf Street Park Action Group

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e would like to update you with what’s going on so far. We are very excited that TDC is contributing £25,000 from their capital project to our cause and we have also received a grant from the Government’s Pocket Park Fund. This has really helped us on our way and we are working closely with Property Management to sort a final design and get the park started.

Thank you to everyone that has helped and supported us in getting this far, we can’t wait to see the new park get underway!

Calf Street Park Action Group

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Dog Training Classes at Taddiport Village Hall

TORRIDGE COMMUNITY MINIBUS SERVICES Run by Ilfracombe & District Community Transport

Ring and Ride services operate in the following areas: Mondays from Westward Ho! and Bideford Tuesdays Torrington Wednesdays from Hartland Thursdays High Bickington and south of the area.

Fridays Bideford

Puppies, Teenagers and Adult Classes for all skill levels Trainers formerly from Puppy Gurus Nurturing the bond between you & your canine companion through force free, positive training For more information please call Rachael: 01409 282814 thehavendogcentre@gmail.com

Further details from: Shirley Davies 07776 414740

Rotary Open Evening 4th April 7pm at Torrington Golf Club

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The Arts Society North Devon

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he May lecture, at the Durrants hy not give Rick Smale, our Rotary Secretary, a ring on House Hotel, Bideford, will start 01805 622419 to reserve your place at our ‘come and th at 2pm on Tuesday 14th May meet us evening’ at Torrington Golf Club on 4 April and be given by John Francis. He is an at 7pm, and see what Rotary is all about (or you can email Rick inspirational speaker who has delivered at secretary@torrington.rotary1175.org). We are looking for new lectures and members, both young and old, women and men. All are welcome but we do need workshops to know numbers for catering purposes! We look forward to meeting you and in the US, explaining how and what Rotary does, and you can see if it just might be for you.

Beijing, Photograph Competition: On a different note, as I advised last month, we Malaysia and are looking for digital photographs from you all so that we can have a Torrington the UK. Initially trained as a painter, he calendar for 2020, which will also celebrate Torrington Rotary’s 50th anniversary. went on to become the artist in residence So all you budding photographers please get snapping! The competition is open to anyone and there will be a prize of £100 for the best photograph and a further prize for the state of Texas. Later in his career he produced and directed several short of £50 to the best photograph taken by someone under the age of 16, so please films and animations. He has taught give us your age if this applies to you. There will also be a framed certificate to all entries that are chosen for use in the calendar, and remember it can be yet another film, art and pedagogy at the University of Exeter, Arts University Bournemouth, birthday or Christmas present solved!

Brunel University London, and in many Please note this competition will close on the 30th September 2019 and photographs should be emailed to stephenhsaywell@hotmail.com. Needless to say overseas locations.

This lecture is entitled ‘Hitchcock, we are looking for pictures with a connection to Torrington.

The Master of Suspense’. It has Stephen Saywell, Torrington Rotary been argued that his films should be regarded as artistic masterworks – he Probus Rolling in the Aisles remains by far the most studied film t the last meeting the guest speaker was Peter Smith, the well-known director of all time. Using innovative and trombonist who has played with many famous orchestras including the Halle experimental techniques with sound and and BBC Orchestras, together with several ‘big bands’. His talk covered editing. Hitchcock thrilled, scared and many odd adventures, and humorous incidents, laced with anecdotes that had manipulated anxiety that made him into members ‘rolling in the aisles’. a cinematic genius of his time. Perhaps There were many quotes from some of the famous conductors he has played one of the best remembered clips ever is under the direction of. This included one by the famous Sir Thomas Beecham, the ‘Psycho’ shower scene that, having known for some of his eccentricities. At rehearsal, if something did not meet his watched it, made it imperative for you to approval, he would stop the orchestra and address the leader of the section in lock your bathroom door before taking a which the offender sat. One day he stopped the music and roared “Trombones!” shower.

The leader responded “Yes sir”, Sir Thomas said “Will you tell the second trombone Visitors are welcome and will be asked he is playing flat”. The leader said, “The second trombone is not here sir”. Without for a small donation of £5. For more any expression Sir Thomas replied, “Well when he arrives, tell him”. Then promptly information about becoming a member, restarted the music. This was the vein of his talk throughout, and members agreed or details of our future programme, that this had been the most entertaining and enjoyable of presentations. The please contact: Pamela Selman on applause said it all.

01271 866661.

Bob Mather, Torrington Probus

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Fleur’s Gardening Forum Create an Ornamental Garden with Fruit & Vegetables

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e do love to see neat rows of vegetables in our gardens, areas carefully planted with the same type of plants and this can be impressive, but many vegetables (and fruit for that matter) can be utilised as ornamental plants, grown as one would an herbaceous border. This is how vegetables were once grown in cottagers’ gardens, before vast estates created formal kitchen gardens where everything was carefully ordered.

In today’s tiny, modern gardens, it could be time to throw out the idea of row upon row of vegetables and create a beautiful ornamental display which is also edible! For example, runner beans were once grown as herbaceous climbers for their flowers before someone discovered that the seedpods were delicious!

To create space in a tiny garden, look no further than heavenwards grow vegetables up obelisks, trellis or over pergolas. Purple podded peas, runner beans, climbing french beans, cucumbers, tomatoes can all be so trained, as can squashes and melons.

Vegetables such as lettuce come in all sorts of leaf forms and colours and could be used as a summer bedding alternative.

Fruit trees can be trained in the same manner. Look for upright cordons, called ‘Minarette’ trees, these are particularly dwarfing and take up little space – you

Families Welcome

Contact Sharon 01805 622543

can grow an orchard of mixed fruit in a very small area. There are also ‘stepover’ trees which can be used as edging to a path (pop down to Rosemoor’s vegetable garden to see examples of these cultivars).

Some fruit have particularly attractive flowers, Blueberries are one and the leaf colour is gorgeous in autumn. Look out for new cultivars of strawberries which have pink flowers.

Many years ago, I saw a garden at a show which had been created by a garden ‘furniture’ company (gazebos, bowers, obelisks, etc) in which was growing only fruit and vegetables and it looked amazing! Tomatoes grew from hanging baskets, strawberries edged a pathway, runner beans grew over a pergola and herbs were planted by the ‘front door’! Curly kale and other cabbages, in different shapes and colours, formed the herbaceous border, alongside aubergines and tomatoes, together with Swiss chard.

There are also advantages to growing vegetables and fruit mixed together, in that pests can find it more difficult to single out every plant and some plants may ‘safeguard’ others by confusing scents. Why don’t you transform your little patch of garden into a beautiful and edible haven, with a seating area where pots of mint and other aromatic herbs scent the warm summer air, instead of roses or jasmine!

Fleur

Little Torrington WI - Line Dancing, Belly Dancing & More!

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t has been a busy couple of months for the members of Little Torrington WI. January saw each member bringing along a keepsake and explaining why it was important and of interest to them. We shared a lot of enjoyable memories, and heard stories we would not normally have heard.

February had us all lining up for a new experience, well to some of us anyway! Ian and Marilyn introduced us to line dancing. It certainly set our pulses racing and we had great fun learning all the steps.

In March we had a talk on ‘Living Well’ from Beth Ann Graveley, who explained how important diet and exercise was and how we could all make small changes in our everyday lives. Some of our members had opted to go on a WI trip - an open evening at John Lewis in Exeter, which involved cookery demonstrations and even a fashion parade.

Coming up in April we continue with the exercise theme as we have an evening of belly dancing. If you are interested in joining us, why not come along?! If you want more information please contact our President, Lyn Wharton on 01805 603052.’We meet on the second Tuesday of every month at 7.30 in the Little Torrington Village Hall.

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Great Torrington Golf Club Taster Day

Sunday 19th May 12-4pm s early summer approaches we are, once again, looking forward to welcoming our local school children to the Golf Course to have a go at playing golf. Last year over 300 boys and girls from six local schools paid us a visit, as part of the Club’s and England Golf’s initiative to ‘Try Golf’. Over 50 boys and girls aged between 4 and 17 were so interested that they decided to join our Junior Section.

Sunday May 19th (12-4pm) sees another opportunity for anyone wishing to ‘Try Golf’ when the Club has its annual ‘Taster Day’ at the Golf Club up on the Common. Come and have a go with us at anything from a bit of putting, to playing 9 holes - or anything in-between.

All are welcome, with our Ladies Section especially keen to meet some newcomers. The Club can supply clubs and balls on the day, but come suitably dressed for the outdoors. Golf is a great and healthy game for all the family, whatever your age, male or female, you can play golf together.

Complimentary refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon. If you really enjoy it then we have special membership packages (Individual, Family, Partners and Junior) available on the day which also include coaching and tuition. If you already play golf and just want to try our course then come up and have 9 holes on us.

Come and see what we have to offer on the 19th May, anytime between 124pm.

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Fleur’s Best Trees - Crab Apple (Malus sylvestris)

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here is some debate as to whether the Crab Apple is actually native to the UK; it is certainly widespread throughout much of Europe and was probably introduced here centuries ago, possibly by the Romans.

Crab Apples will thrive in almost any soil, as long as it is not waterlogged or very acidic. They tend to grow as single trees and a wood may contain but one specimen; they can also be seen growing as part of ancient hedgerows.

The truly wild tree is spiny and has mainly white flowers in spring. Mature trees have a dense, tangled crown with large twisted branches, hence the name ‘crab’.

The bark is brown and cracked into scales, the leaves toothed, set alternately along branches and vary in shape from oval, elliptical to circular. The fruits are much smaller than the cultivated apple and are yellow-green, flushed red, hard and sour.

The Crab Apple and all its species and cultivars are wildlife friendly, being good for pollinating insects and providing food for birds during autumn and winter.

I cannot list all the different species and cultivars, but perhaps the most wellknown is ‘John Downie’ and this specimen is often referred to as a ‘universal pollinator’, ie., if grown with cultivated apples it provides a source of pollination to practically all the other varieties. In old orchards, you often find it growing in the surrounding hedgerows.

The Crab apple itself produces an excellent jelly and being very acidic, sets quite readily.

Fleur

Volunteer Tour Guides Needed

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ould you welcome visitors on board SS Freshspring?

Would you enjoy learning and sharing information about the ship?

We’re keen to give our visitors a first class experience and wondered if you’d like to be part of it?

No previous experience is needed as full training will be given, but you do have to have an enthusiastic and friendly nature, with a talent for communicating.

Want to know more? Please contact Hayley Buscombe, Educational and Project Officer. hayley.buscombe@ssfreshspring.co.uk The Steamship Freshspring Society is a ‘not for profit’ organisation based in Bideford, whose aim is to return SS Freshspring to operation. Visit www. ssfreshspring.co.uk for more information.

From Your County Councillor...

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s we are now into the ‘new’ financial year for the County Council, I am hoping to be able to devote more time to economic development and regeneration in the coming months. I am passionate about revitalising our local economy – if we are to attract business and investment into our area then we need a thriving high street and local economy in Torrington.

There are also fundamental issues to look at. Our area has some of the poorest economic statistics when compared with other parts of Devon; lower than average wages, lower productivity and lower connectivity. We are also ranked poorly for social mobility – which is very disheartening, as we do not want our young people to feel that they have no choice but to leave North Devon for opportunities.

It is easy to talk about these problems, but less easy to solve them. I am under no illusion that it could take more than a few years to improve these economic indicators. However I wasn’t elected just to talk about problems – I want to see some positive action.

On that front, I was pleased to see that an Analysis Report of Employment Space in Torrington is now being carried out by Torridge District Council, with a funding contribution coming from Devon County Council. This is a good example of both the District and County Council working together and I hope once the Analysis Report is finished, that both Councils can continue to work together in developing some long-term plans for

Torrington.

There are some exciting opportunities coming up on the horizon which I hope we can link Torrington with, such as the new Enterprise Centre at Roundswell, which will start development this summer, along with a new Centre of Technology and Innovation Excellence at Petroc.

Alongside this work, with the issue of the future of our high streets becoming a nationwide issue, there are now more pots of funding available that Torrington, Torridge and Devon can potentially tap into. I certainly hope that for Torrington we can access funding that would both exploit the heritage of our town, and provide more support for our traders, and potentially lead to more services and facilities being available in the town centre.

Nonetheless these initiatives will take time to come to fruition. While I do not expect our economic indicators to change drastically overnight – I do remain optimistic though that something can be done to improve them. It will be hard work – but I am determined that we can, and we will improve our local economy.

On a different note, the issue of our highways network remains, as ever, a ‘popular’ topic with many residents.

Thankfully the weather this winter has not been as severe as last year, but nonetheless there are still quite a few pothole and drainage problems to sort out.

While I report as many defects as possible, with 18 Parishes to represent it simply isn’t possible for me to report

every pothole, blocked drain or broken sign. So, can I please ask Crier readers to report any problems to Highways as soon possible?

It is now easier to do this online – simply type in devon.cc/report-it into your browser and it will take you straight to the online reporting website. Alternatively, you can ring Devon Highways Customer Services on 0345 155 1004 if you would prefer to speak to someone.

I cannot stress enough that it is a numbers game – the more reports/stats there are in Torrington Rural the more likely a road will be resurfaced or a new drain is installed. If problems don’t get reported then the issue won’t get fixed!

I know it is frustrating when sometimes we report a pothole and it doesn’t get fixed – but if you report something and nothing happens then let me know about it. As ever, you can ring me on 07886 446 560 or email andrew.saywell@ devon.gov.uk.

School of Rock at GTS

‘School of Rock’ is our whole school musical production which takes place on the 2nd 3rd and 4th April at Great Torrington School. For tickets call the Box Office, 01805 623531.

Based on the hit movie, this irresistible musical follows a failed, wannabe rock star who poses as a supply teacher at a prestigious prep school. There he turns a class of straight ‘A’ pupils into a guitarshredding, mind-blowing rock band. But can he get them to the ‘Battle of the Bands’ without their parents and the school’s headmistress finding out?

Tarka Pottery

Pottery classes, potter’s wheel, family activities, pottery painting, children’s & hen parties, holiday club, hand & foot prints, experience vouchers Little Torrington Tel: 07931 306 414 www.tarkapottery.co.uk email: info@tarkapottery.co.uk

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Grow by Action for Children

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row offers a new approach to services for families from pregnancy to preschool. Life as a parent can be demanding at times, and it’s easy to forget about your own mental health and well-being. At Grow, our experiences are designed to support parents’ health and well-being and that of their baby or toddler, through our calm, relaxed and nurturing approach.

Grow offers quality and ethical experiences from pregnancy to preschool, delivered by qualified and very experienced early years’ practitioners.

We offer: Grow Curious Babies and Curious Toddlers: A great way to introduce your baby or toddler to treasure baskets, sensory and messy play while developing their natural curiosity. You’ll learn different ways to help your baby discover the world around them. Our sessions help your understanding of how toddlers learn and play, and provides a safe place for your toddler to develop their curiosity. Often play can be messy when children are discovering, so our experiences give your toddler maximum opportunity to have fun, explore and you don’t have to worry about the mess.

Every Friday morning at Torrington Children’s Centre.

Grow bump to baby is an ideal place to meet other pregnant couples in your area. Our two-hour sessions are warm, friendly and relaxed, providing great

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Torrington Silver Band News

Torrington RFC

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t time of writing we have had the misfortune to have suffered another break in at our clubhouse. This time however, our recently installed CCTV and alarm system have been able to give excellent images of the perpetrators and their vehicle. A knock on their door is anticipated!

Back to normal business. Our 1st XV have been consolidating their position in the league with close run games. Away at Tamar Saracens the last kick of the game gave Sarries a 20-18 win. A disappointing result.

We then travelled down to Dartmouth with a seriously depleted squad, due to this being a rearranged game and a former player getting married. A 17-10 loss was, in all, a good result given the circumstances.

A week off gave the guys time to recover from the strains of a hard season, leaving them refreshed for the visit from Totnes. A strong wind did little to hamper a stronger win, with Torrie coming out sound winners 27-19.

The day was also buoyed along with our ladies enjoying their ‘Ladies Day’ charity luncheon. This year the chosen charity was CLIC Sargeant. An enormous table of donated raffle prizes boosted the coffers, and a healthy amount was secured to aid the charity. Well done to all concerned.

By the time you are reading this we shall have returned to Totnes for a twicecancelled game. And on 30th March we are playing North Tawton at Donnacroft for a place in the Devon Junior Cup Final.

Sadly our 2nd XV have had to cancel their remaining fixtures due to lack of players. A disappointing decision, but one that had to be made. Hopefully we can consolidate a strong side for next season.

Discipline, teamwork, enjoyment sportsmanship and respect.

C’mon Torrie!

Mark Waterson support in your third trimester as you prepare for life beyond pregnancy.

Grow Baby Massage is for babies from six weeks up to crawling, making it an ideal first experience together. Each session lasts about an hour, and during this time you’ll learn many techniques to help calm and soothe your baby in our baby-friendly settings.

Grow Baby Yoga incorporates breathing techniques, stretching and movements for you and your baby, as well as rhymes, actions and sensory play. Each session last about an hour,

but we don’t rush at the end, enjoy one of our Fairtrade teas or coffees and get to know your new friends.

Our Grow Crafty Kids is running over the Easter holidays at Sticklepath Children’s Centre, come along and get creative. Suitable for three to eight years approx..

You can find out more about our Grow experiences: find us on Facebook Grow Devon, email us Growdevon@ actionforchildren.org.uk, go to www.grow. org.uk or call us on 01271 371961.

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ere is a piece written by one of our younger members about a recent workshop she attended.

‘Last month, along with four other Torrington Silver Band members, I attended the South West Brass Band Association’s mid- winter workshop: 100 local brass band players spent two days at West Buckland School and were tutored by three members from the world-famous Black Dyke Band. Throughout the weekend, we worked on nine pieces by various composers. We finished off the weekend with an hour-long concert for family and friends.

I really enjoyed taking part in the workshops, I was lucky enough to attend last year too. We were given many helpful tips and I have used them in my playing recently; the tutors were very encouraging and eager to help us out in any way they could. I found the sectionals very helpful because we would all be playing something that was similar to one another, and we could all learn it together. The sectionals were also a great way to get to know people from different bands who play the same instrument as you.

We were given the option to purchase some of the pieces played throughout the weekend, I am really looking forward to playing them with the Torrington Silver Band family soon. I really hope I am lucky enough to get the opportunity to attend again next year to continue to develop my playing skills further.’

Emily Cooper Easter Bingo Torrington Silver Band would like to invite you to our upcoming Easter Bingo. On Saturday 13th April come along and join us at Howe Concert Hall, Castle Street, Torrington. Doors will open at 6:45pm and eyes down at 7:30pm. We will have lots of fantastic prizes up for grabs, including chicken dinners and Easter eggs!! There will be a raffle and refreshments will be available throughout the evening. As always children are most welcome and there will even be a game of bingo just for them with a fabulous prize for the winner. Everyone welcome!

Why not join us?

Also if you have seen the Band and Corps of Drums playing at May Fair, Carnival and various other events and fancy having a go yourself, we are always looking for new members. Whether you have any musical knowledge or not, why not come and learn a new skill. The band practises on a Monday and Wednesday night from 8pm9.30pm at Howe Concert Hall in Castle Street. Our learner groups are on Monday and Wednesday between 7pm and 8pm and our Corps of Drums practise on Wednesday between 7pm and 8pm. Please phone Nick Megson on 01805 622150 for more details.

Join in the Fun with National Gardening Week

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his year, the theme is ‘Edible Britain’. We aim to show that everyone has somewhere to grow something to put in the pot, even if it is just a few herbs on a windowsill.

Although our gardeners are happy to stop and talk at any time, they will be available during the week of 29 April-3 May, on the terrace each day 11am12pm and 2-3pm to answer all those burning questions.

Alternatively, you might want to join in with ‘Rosemoor Question Time’ which will take place in the Garden Room on 1st May, compered by our very own, and Radio Devon’s Sarah Chesters.

Please book your ticket through the website or with the staff on reception, submitting your question so that we can give you the fullest of answers.

There will also be a series of ‘Meet the Gardeners’ walks lasting about 30 minutes each day, covering a range of topics; foliage plants, early season perennials, exotic and Mediterranean plants, the Vegetable Garden and trees and shrubs. We hope these talks will give you confidence to grow almost anything!

If you are a beginner you might want to take advantage of our offer to plant a pot of rocket seeds to take home to grow on your window sill; we will be providing seeds, compost and pots.

Check out our website for more details (rhs.org.uk/rosemoor) come along and get growing!

Sheila Dearing Garden Technical Services Officer

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Next up is Sebastian’s story about a ghostly encounter…!

Our Year 8 pupils spent last term in English studying creative writing. One class were asked to write a short story based on a visual prompt of an elderly woman. Here is Grace’s powerful and well-crafted response: Neighbour

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n the 7th of May, the house next door was no longer empty. At around 3pm, a cheap moving van pulled up outside the house, closely followed by a small, beat up mini cooper that looked as though it should have been in the junk-yard years ago. The driver’s side door swung open and ever-so-slowly, an old women got out.

She had curly white hair, piercing hazel eyes and wrinkled skin- which looked as though one bump would rip the top layer.

Within about half an hour, everything was transferred and the sub-standard moving van pulled away. My mother, eager to make the neighbour feel welcome, rushed across with a fresh tin of cake. I watched with curiosity as the two women laughed and gossiped, convincing my mother that the old lady was a friend. Everything was totally normal, I thought.

I have never been so wrong.

The days turned to weeks, then months. Nothing happened. The old woman (whose name I never learned) did the things you would expect. Her daughter came to visit and she went shopping once a week. Totally normal now I look back on it.

But then one day it all changed. I was doing measured keepie-uppies in our over-grown garden when I clipped the

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ball wrong and it flew over the stained fence. That was my last ball and I wasn’t just going to leave it there! So I turned around and slipped through the wood panelled door, careful to lock it behind me. I hopped lightly over the brick fence that separated our front lawn with her’s and as softly as a cat licking her young, knocked on the door. There was no answer; I knocked a little harder; still nothing. I went around and peered into the lounge’s lace curtained window.

Then it hit me.

The entire house was empty!

What was I going to do? I couldn’t just leave my ball there sitting pretty! So I turned around and slipped back into our bleached garden. Checking no-one was looking, I pulled myself up on to the rickety flat-pack shed and flopped over the fence. When I say flopped I mean flopped. Totally non-graceful. I saw my ball and swooped to pick it up, checking for damage. I was about to turn back when I caught sight of the door. It was hanging open.

An internal battle later, I walked into the bland kitchen.

“I shouldn’t be here,” I thought “this is wrong,” I thought.

But I carried on anyway. When I entered the living room, I noticed a small box sat patiently in the centre of

The Encounter

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At GTS we have several children in care. An organisation called ‘CORAM’ - who work to uphold the rights of children in care and give them a voice - recently ran a poetry competition.

One of our Year 9 pupils entered with this brave and powerful poem. the room. It was a metallic black with a snake like clasp and made indents from its metal feet in the carpet. I prised it open with my fingertips after curiosity got the better of me. Inside sat a full face prosthetic of an old woman with the same curly white hair and a box of contacts, of the same hazel tone. There was other stuff as well, like a bin bag full of stereotypical old women clothes your nana wears pushed up against the wall.

But that didn’t seem to matter then. All I could think of was that we had all been lied to and betrayed. This person who we had opened are arms too had done the complete opposite.

This person wasn’t normal Wasn’t ordinary.

They were a mystery.

Grace Bromhead Year 8

My Recipe.

Take some bruises from a small boy’s face, Settle some anger and pain from an adult’s misplaced list, sprinkle some fresh fear and uncertainty, then blend well with a Judge’s perspective.

I am.

I am more than just a child in care, I am a misplaced, worried possibility, I am a warrior of my own making, I am an expectation, I am a statistic of bad behaviour, I am judged

he day started like any other, but ended in a much different way. Once I’d finished my normal morning routine, I went to the park- as I usually did. It was a wonderful day; the sky was a bright blue; it was the perfect temperature and the grass was a satisfactory shade of green. I thought that the day was going to be brilliant, but I couldn’t be further from the truth. Behind the park there were tall dark trees, reaching out to seize their next victim. That day, young, stupid me decided that it would be a brilliant idea to explore there. Slowly, I made my way around to the entry. The joy drained from my body and the sun hid behind some clouds as I got close. Once I got there, I looked in…

It was a jungle! There was an overgrown, dirt path going straight with rows of tall, dark trees either side. The trees were perfect for climbing as there were little branches up the side of the tree, like a ladder. I climbed up to the top. Towering, I stood above everyone. After a while, I climbed back down to explore further. I followed the path until I discovered a small tunnel in a bush. The leaves crunched under my feet.

I crouched down at the mouth of the tunnel. I hesitated. “Should I do this?” I thought.

But while I was contemplating whether to enter or not, my body entered the tunnel by its self so I decided to carry on. Carefully, I crawled through the winding tunnel for what felt like an eternity. I came out the other side, terrified of what was in front of me.

I tried to move, but I couldn’t. I was frozen in fear. I just wanted to close my eyes and be back at home, but there was no waking up from this nightmare. The swings and rocking horses were moving by themselves, the icy wind was howling and whipping me. My mind went to quick conclusion. Ghost! Terrified, I lifted my feet and dove for the tunnel. The branches tried to clench hold of me but nothing could slow me down. I broke into a sprint the second I emerged from the tunnel and continued home. Once I’d finally reached my house, I started to calm down and tried to process what just happened. I feared for my life!

Sebastian Maslanek, Year 8

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The Crier Prize Crossword This month’s prize is a month’s free membership to Function Fitness. Please send completed crossword with contact details, to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington.crier@gmail.com. The winner of last issue’s prize is Louise Hunter. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 11th April the solution and winner will be in the May issue.

Here at Function Fitness we have a passion to stay current, and have recently teamed up with Les Mills, a New Zealand based fitness company to deliver new classes.

Not only should these classes appeal to anyone new to fitness, they are great for those of you who have been sweating it out to reach those much-desired goals.

Once in a while it is important to shake up your routine, to keep it fresh, avoiding boredom, increase fat loss, prevent injuries and build muscles that haven’t been worked for a while.

Teaming up with Les Mills has brought our old class timetable up-to-date with current fitness trends. It has meant that we have been able to increase the range and number of classes to give you extra without you having to think about it and to help you get the best results.

Joining one will not only make you feel instantly better, you’ll meet a community of friends looking to achieve the same goals.

We really appreciate the ongoing support we receive from Great Torrington, and these timetable changes are not only the best way for you to get fit, they are also the building platform for our future plans for a healthier Torrington. We have some really exciting announcements for you to look forward to in the near future. If you want to be the first to know, then make sure to check out our Facebook page where we will be keeping you all updated!

Function Fitness

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

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n March we said ‘thank you so much’ to Anne for all her diligent and patient work refining the collation process for our group order and to Brian for taking on the collation process on top of transcribing everyone’s orders. We also welcomed volunteer George to help with design work and social media, so we can reach and help more people. Our Facebook group is growing apace, and I’m receiving questions and responses to our offer of arranging a talk demonstration and discussion about 5G, what it means and how we can best protect ourselves from the very concerning health hazards. If you’re interested, please do get in touch.

Well-being tip: Bread: Most of us love bread, it takes us back to our childhood, it’s filling, versatile and nourishing. Or is it? The answer to this is – it depends.

Bread made with whole organic ingredients undoubtedly yes, but commercial mass produced bread made with cheap refined and chemicalized ingredients is definitely a health hazard. Artisan breads are very popular but can be rather expensive, so why not make your own? Bread making is relaxing and children enjoy getting involved too. Bread can be hard on the digestion given that flour and water make what? Glue!

Did you know it’s possible to make delicious bread without flour? I’ve been trying a couple of recipes for this; one using raw buckwheat groats and another with nuts and seeds and oat flakes, both enthusiastically received. These kinds of breads have no yeast and are also gluten free. Commercial yeast is undesirable from a health point of view and best to avoid. I always use organic ingredients, even more important now that we know many people are actually reacting to glyphosate (aka ‘Roundup’, a known carcinogen) residues rather than gluten. All the ingredients you need for home bread making are available through the Buying Group at wholesale prices – a huge range of flours of every kind, whole grains and pseudo grains, nuts, seeds, good oils, wholesome sweeteners, sea and Himalayan salt, dried fruits and pretty much anything else you care to name. Sourdough bread, soda bread, flat breads, pancakes and muffins – there’s a world of healthy yumminess to be had, full of real flavour, texture and nutrition, especially if it’s made by your own fair hand.

Bi-monthly grocery order dates: 20th May /15th July /16th Sept /18th Nov /22nd Jan. Contact me now so you’re primed for the new catalogue on 1st May. Buying Group FAQ’s How do I join? Via our Facebook page or email Mary What does membership cost? Free Must I order a minimum amount? No Must I order every month? No If I don’t order, can I still apply to share someone else’s order? Yes How do I pay? BACS or cash on collection What if I need advice or have questions? Ring me now 01805 623 307 or email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk. Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Twitter: Follow us @owbg1 or use the hashtag #owbg. Facebook: Mary Crail Biofeedback & Wellbeing. www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk

Plant Swap 1646 Garden Saturday 27th April 10am-12 noon

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ut the date in your diary, and start potting up some of those spare plants you have in your garden or are growing from seed! Bring them along to swap and return home with some great new plants for your garden!

Torrington Memory Cafe

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he Memory Cafe will be open twice a month from April till September - the second and fourth Thursdays.

We meet at the Methodist Church from 10.30am till 12.30pm. The cafe caters for people who have memory loss and their families/carers, to enable them to share experiences and information. The people who attend the cafe are from all walks of life and of varying ages.

Some may have had a diagnosis while others may be worried about their memory and want advice.

People who attend the cafe find that they continue to come along and value it for its welcoming, informal and relaxed atmosphere. The memory cafe offers a listening ear and a couple of hours’ break from the regular day’s routines.

Do come along and joins us you will be most welcome.

Pauline Page

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Springtime at The Plough

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Plough Visual Arts

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p until Saturday 20th April we will be presenting an exhibition of calligraphy by the late Madeleine Dinkel, working with the poetry of John Moat - a local poet who co-founded the Arvon Foundation, and showing ‘Radical Landscapes’ a remarkable show of nationally acclaimed language artists curated

by Camilla Nelson.

We are hosting a series of events associated with the show including: Words & Wildflowers Workshop; An Edible Odyssey with Adam Reeve Saturday 6th April 2019 at 1pm, tickets £20. Join local wild food gatherer Adam Reeve on a journey through Torrington Commons, and along the banks of the River Torridge, in search of wild edibles and toxins to avoid; the walk will also feature a poem linked to each plant giving insight into humankind’s relationship with wild flora over the ages. The walk will begin at 1pm from the Plough and will last between 2-3 hours, ending at the South Street Car Park. Sturdy boots, clothes suitable for the local forecast and reasonable fitness are recommended.

Radical Landscapes: Curator’s Talk & Poetry Readings, Saturday 6th April 6-8pm, £5. Come along for a guided tour of the exhibition with curator Camilla Nelson and live radical landscape performances from exhibiting language artists.

Friday 26th April 2019 to Monday 6th May 2019 in the main gallery - Celebrating Creativity: A vibrant, creative and colourful exhibition showcasing the many talented artists across all years at GTS. The artwork has been created using a variety of materials from many interesting starting points from May Fair, festivals and fairgrounds to name just a few.

Downstairs we have work from Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School.

The children have been working hard to develop a range of artistic skills; they have loved expressing their ideas creatively and have been inspired by a range of artists and styles - from sketching in the style of Charles Keeping to creating beautiful silhouette scenes and carnival masks!

alling all Harry Potter and Lemony Snicket fans celebrated poet, stand-up performer and children’s author Murray Lachlan Young is performing at The Plough over the Easter holidays!

Audiences aged 7-107 are welcome to his thrilling theatre with a touch of panto.

Another family show not to miss this Easter: The Last Baguette are presenting ‘The Bird Show’ - ‘a flap-tastic’ fact-filled comedy that will use live music, puppetry and physical comedy to explore the fascinating life of birds.

In addition to great family theatre and films, we’re kick-starting the springtime season with a variety of music this month, including rootsy blues with Elles Baily (Fri 5) and foot tapping bluegrass tunes from The NewGrass Cutters (Sat 6). The 7-piece Afrocentrics are bringing their afrobeats, reggae and funk to The Plough, with a standing gig performance the weekend after on Sat 13.

ThePlough@TheGeorge, South Molton has some great folk and country music to look forward to as well throughout April including The Shee, The Askew Sisters and Harbottle and Jonas, check out the details in our programme or online!

Plough The Future Are you between 13-18 with a passion for the arts? Do you have new ideas?

Would you like to represent young people’s voices here at The Plough Arts Centre? Think council, but more creative! To be considered for our ‘Plough the Future’ team please send CV and covering e-mail to sophie@ theploughartscente.org.uk by 12 noon Tues 9th April.

Rosemoor Events

6th-22nd April Family Fun with The Rhyming Rabbit Easter Hop About This Easter the RHS Gardens have teamed up with publisher Macmillan Children’s Books for an exciting programme of family fun, based on The Rhyming Rabbit, a clever adventure from the picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks. With brilliant rhyming verse, bright and distinctive illustrations, this story is a delight to read aloud.

The RHS Gardens will bring the tale to life this Easter with The Rhyming Rabbit Hop About, which will take families on a trail around the gardens, through a giant burrow meeting the Rhyming Rabbit’s animal friends along the way.

Activities vary daily. Normal garden admission.

6th & 7th April Wool & Yarn Fest Supporting the local sheep farming heritage, this brand new event will feature local traders and exhibitors including young alpacas and spring lambs for all the family to meet. Every available indoor space has been allocated out to house crafters and demonstrations, it all promises to be a ‘woolly’ great day out for all the family!

8th-18th April Easter Holidays drop-in family craft workshops A chance for families to have fun together whilst exploring the gardens in all their spring glory and finding wonderful flowers, beautiful views, spotting the abundance of wildlife and solving all the clues on the trail. Drop-in workshops are suitable for children aged 5+ and take place between 11am-1pm and 2-4pm in the Learning Centre South Classroom Maximum of 4 children per adult. Included free with normal garden admission, which is free for RHS members.

27th & 28th April RHS National Rhododendron Show Supported by Atkins Ferrie Wealth Management This National Show has over 60 classes covering all types of Rhododendrons, as well as trade and advice stands plus magnificent displays of Magnolias and Camellias too, and is an event not to be missed.

Past competitors have included Royal Parks department, Exbury Gardens, Caerhays Castle, The Savill Garden, Trewithin, Marwood Hill and several National Trust properties in the South West including Glendurgan and Trelissick. The competitions are entirely free to enter and open to anyone who wishes to exhibit.

Entry forms are available direct from RHS Competitions Manager, Georgina Barter at: georginabarter@rhs.org.uk Saturday 11:30am (after judging) to 4pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm Included in normal garden admission which is free for RHS members.

Great Torrington Bowling Club

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our local bowling club starts its new season of outdoor lawn bowls on Sunday 14th April, on their bowling green at the top of Castle Street, adjacent to Barley Grove Car Park. We start at 2pm and any new members will be made very welcome.

We are the third oldest club in England, and next year we celebrate the 375th anniversary of the founding of the club. We play outdoors from April until the end of September, then play short mat bowls from October until the end of March. We also run social events during the year, and a bar.

From the first Monday after May Fair, we run a club night every Monday throughout the season, for members to practice and new members to get tuition in playing and perfecting their skills. When you are accepted as a member the green is open to you to play at any time after 11am.

Any further details about the club can be obtained through our Secretary John Pitts on 01805 439100 or by visiting our website www. greattorringtonbowlingclub.co.uk Fred Niven Great Torrington Bowling Club Fixture Secretary

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