Torrington Crier December & January 2019-20 by The Torrington Crier

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December & January 2019/20 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.

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Torrington & ... District Community News & Events 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: Matt Joy Rural Distribution: Sue Crane & the community Printers: Toptown, Barnstaple

Merry Christmas from the Crier Team!

We would like to thank everyone who contributes to The Crier - without editorial contributors and our advertisers The Crier wouldn’t exist. Thank you to you all for another year of support, we hope you have a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! 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.

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

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

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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

Weekly Work Club & Community Information Hub at the Torrington Town & Community Hall

ollowing an almost 20 year hiatus, and thanks to £11,241.50 from the European Social Fund, Torrington will be running a weekly Work Club and Community Information Hub at the Torrington Town and Community Hall from Monday 6th January, 2020. According to Devon County Council Facts and Figures data, the latest unemployment figure for Torrington is 65, with others who aren’t claiming but are actively looking for work. As well as

“Torrington is renowned for its community spirit, so if you have skills you would like to share to help someone get on the employment ladder, or identify their training needs, it would be an enormous bonus to have you on board”. supporting those in the community who are unemployed and have experienced difficulty in obtaining interviews, the new Work and Community Club will also support local individuals by offering digital skills, support and link into training offered by other providers. The club will work with the new Torrington 100 social prescribing initiative, helping GP surgeries link to community groups who offer health and wellbeing provision within Torrington and the surrounding 16 villages. Torridge Training and Volunteer Service will also use the club to support local groups and to source and place volunteers. Richard Rumbold, Chairman of the Torrington Town & Community Hall, is

Commons News

delighted to host such an exciting initiative and says: “We used to have a thriving work club in Torrington in the 1990s and many people benefitted from the support they received, so it’s been a fantastic boost to receive funding from the European Social Fund to revive such a much-needed resource for some of the most vulnerable in our community. We hope that they gain additional skills that will make them more employable”. Anyone interested in registering with the Work and Community Club should, in the first instance, contact Anne Tattersall on townandcommunityhall@gmail.com or on 0797 1696 192. Anne would also like to hear from anyone in the community who would like to become a volunteer and come along to share their skills and says: “Torrington is renowned for its community spirit, so if you have skills you would like to share to help someone get on the employment ladder, or identify their training needs, it would be an enormous bonus to have you on board”. Anne would also encourage other organisations who can come up with creative ways of helping people find employment to apply for a European Social Fund grant and adds, “Applying for funding can be a minefield if you haven’t done it before, but we had enormous help and support from the Community Grants Team at Petroc Barnstaple, who are the managing agents for the regional European Social Fund Community Grants Project”.

Christmas Day at the Town Hall

he weather has certainly kept us busy on the Commons recently, from clearing drains to relieve flooding on paths, to removing trees brought down by the storms. It is a great help when people report issues like this so we can get them sorted out as quickly as possible, so a big thank you to everyone who has contacted us recently. You can find us on Facebook or ring or email (details at the bottom). We’ve also been busy taking out dead elm trees in a number of places around the Commons. We have received a donation from Great Torrington WI to be used for planting fruit trees, many thanks. These will be added to Collingham’s Orchard in the near future. We’re also very grateful to the Rotary Club and the Great Torrington Chamber of Trade for their donations enabling us to install two viewing points on top of Castle Hill, which will allow people with reduced mobility to enjoy what we feel could well be the best view in North Devon. We haven’t managed to get any photographs, but we have had reports

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. If you are interested please contact Clarity on 01271 267474.

his year, if you are spending Christmas Day by yourself, why not consider joining us at the Town Hall for a delicious traditional Christmas lunch and some festive

of salmon swimming upstream to spawn. The floods make it difficult to spot them, but we’re confident that they are there. We are still trying to find some more people willing to be trustees on the board of the Conservators. We are quite a sociable and friendly lot, so if you would like to find out how you could get involved, again please get in touch. We particularly need people with fund raising skills! It is with great sadness that we note the passing away of Nigel Stark who was on the board of the Conservators for many years. He was always passionate about the Commons and his wealth of local knowledge will be greatly missed. Lastly I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas from the Commons Conservators, and a Happy New Year full of wonderful walks on the Commons. Mandy Harrison (Chair GTCC) 01805 462463 torringtoncommons@gmail.com

fun! Stephen and Paul from Lions Coffee House have kindly offered to prepare a tasty Christmas lunch with all the festive trimmings. We are very grateful to them for coming up with this wonderful idea and giving up their time to make it happen. We have been overwhelmed with offers of help from local people and businesses, plus various other groups - not only with financial support but a lot of great ideas and help on the day. Don’t fret if you have no transport, we will be arranging a free transport service for all our guests. Lunch will be served at 1pm. If you would like to join us on Christmas Day please get in touch by email townandcommunityhall@gmail.com or by ringing Anne on 07971 696 192, and we will do the rest to ensure you have a truly memorable day at Great Torrington Town & Community Hall. If you’d like to help us on Christmas Day, offer any help prior to the day or make a small donation, we would love to hear from you! Let’s keep our wonderful Torrington Community Spirit Alive! Anne Tattersall

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity 202801 Distribution Day

New venue - Great Torrington Town & Community Hall Date: Friday 6th December 2019 Time: 9.30am-2pm Qualifying households are entitled to receive vouchers to be spent within the town. To qualify you must be living within the Great Torrington Parish boundary (and shown on the Electoral Roll for not less than one year before the date of the distribution) and be in receipt of any of the following benefits: * State Retirement Pension; * Attendance Allowance; * Constant Attendance Allowance; * Disability Living Allowance; * Employment and Support Allowance; * Incapacity Benefit; * Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit Please Note: * Only ONE claim per Household; * If you are claiming on behalf of a relative/friend, you MUST bring a letter of authorisation signed by the recipient * Suitable evidence of entitlement to these benefits MUST be presented on the day No applications will be considered before or after the above hours. I M Newman – Steward to the Trustees

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Torrington Memory Cafe

Cancel May Fair 2020?

We may have to! organised: there is a set diary of tasks reat Torrington May Fair and Carnival may not happen in for each month and the paperwork etc. 2020. Our wonderful tradition is already in place, we just need people to do them. that has been going for centuries, may We also need a bank of volunteers have to be cancelled in 2020 due to who we can call on for stewarding duties a lack of volunteers to organise it. It takes a lot of planning and preparation on May Fair day and Carnival evening. to make these “We need more volunteers to join the So if you have a couple of two huge events committee, and in particular four happen; they people to take on the roles of: Secretary, hours to spare have to be done Treasurer, Events/Media, and Road on either day please let us to the highest Closures.” know. level of safety for all involved and there are just not So, people of Torrington, how about it? Can you step up and join the committee enough people left on the committee to in one of those roles and save May do all the tasks. Fair? We need more volunteers to join If so, please contact us on our the committee, and in particular four people to take on the roles of: Secretary, Facebook page or email: Cllr.Allin@ Treasurer, Events/Media, and Road greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk or Cllr. Clayton@great-torringtontowncouncil. Closures. gov.uk. All these roles are already carefully

Great Torrington Futures Group - Town Tidy

n 12th October, the Futures Group held a town tidy on Caddywell/Dick Hill/ Watery Lanes to tidy up the area, cut back some of the overgrowth, scrape the edges and brush down through. About a dozen volunteers of all ages rose to the challenge and within a few hours we certainly made an improvement! The Futures Group have been working with County, District and Town Councils and Councillors to improve this area, with future work including cutting back dead trees on the banks, scraping the path edges back even further, drainage works and the installation of a new litter bin. This work will take some time to organise, we recognise it is taking some time, but we will get there eventually. Our thanks go to those who helped on the day and for the ongoing work. Find out more about the Futures Group and the many other projects we have going on at the moment relating to economic regeneration, tourism, appearance of the town, etc., do get in touch by email gt.futuregroup@gmail.com or via our Facebook page - fb.com/gtfuture. Maybe you have an idea for your own project?

Thanks from the Foodbank

e would like to thank everyone who has supported the Torrington Community Foodbank this year with their generous donations. We have seen an increase in numbers and it is only with your support that we have been able to help all those in need of help. It is especially wonderful that we have had such good support, as unlike other towns we do not have a number of big supermarkets, only the continuing generous support of our town and surrounding villages. May we take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy Christmas and blessings for the coming year, once again thank you all for your support. Shirley Bere Torrington Community Foodbank

A Wife For All Reasons

ollowing the October staging of ‘A Wife for all Reasons’ by members of the Torrington Players, the cast has been asked to repeat the monologues of the six wives of Henry VIII, so that a wider audience may have the opportunity to see them. The monologues will be staged, as before, in the Oak Room of Great Torrington Town Hall on Tuesday and Wednesday 24th and 25th March 2020 at 7.30pm. Ticket numbers are limited, as before, and will be priced at £10 each to include a glass of wine or soft drink. They will be available from Torrington Jewellers early in the New Year.

t the November meeting Sarah Jane ran a craft session making Christmas decorations. We are now all looking forward to Christmas lunch at the Black Horse on Thursday 12th December. Just a reminder that you can access a lot of information on our website which is greattorringtonmemorycafe. weebly.org.uk. There are links to other sites which people with dementia and their carers might find useful. People who attend the cafe are from all walks of life and of varying ages. Some people may have had a recent diagnosis of dementia, whilst others may be worried about their memory

“If you or a family member is affected by memory loss then do come along and get a warm welcome...” and want advice. People who attend find that they continue to come along and value the cafe for its welcoming, informal and relaxed atmosphere. The cafe offers a listening ear and a break from the regular day’s routine. If you or a family member is affected by memory loss then do come along and get a warm welcome from everyone at the café, as well as getting support and information. A big thank you to all our volunteers and supporters, your dedication is much appreciated. We hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. For further information then please contact Pauline on 01805 625969.

Torrington in Bloom

SW in Bloom Results & Annual General Meeting News a great deal to the reat Torrington’s entry into the South West in Bloom success of the town’s competition achieved a Silverentries into South Gilt award again, which breaks down into West in Bloom. He Gold for Horticultural Work, Silver-Gilt for organised the potato Environmental Impact and Silver-Gilt for growing competition Community Input. with Year 4 of the Our two Business, Leisure & Tourism Bluecoat CofE Primary School which entries, the Conservative Club and has proved to be very popular with many Dartington Crystal, “Lastly, the Committee is urgently children. He will both achieved seeking new members who would be greatly missed Gold standard by us all. be prepared to take over the for the second The Committee administration work previously year running. also agreed that undertaken by myself, as I am also Congratulations to it would not be stepping down from this role. This both businesses for means that there will no longer be a entering the SW in maintaining such Bloom competition ‘Best Garden’ competition.” high standards. again. However, We also had a number of ‘It’s Your the good news is that groups can still Neighbourhood’ entries: the gardens at enter the ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ 1646, the Secret Memorial Garden, Rack competition by themselves, as can Park, the flowerbed by S&G Carpets the entrants to the ‘Business, Leisure (looked after by our local Garden & Tourism’ awards. The Best Park Society), Tarka Valley Railway group award is a separate competition so is and 1610 Swimming Pool flowerbed. unaffected. The first three entries all received an The committee would like to thank all Outstanding award which is the highest those groups and individuals who have accolade in this competition; the Garden helped us out this year and, in particular, Society received a Thriving certificate, to RHS Rosemoor for their ongoing the next highest, and Tarka Railway and commitment with the Rack Park project the Swimming Pool were both awarded – their support is vital to this particular an Advancing certificate. ALL of these project. awards were big improvements on last Lastly, the Committee is urgently seeking new members who would be year, so the hard work put in by those prepared to take over the administration people who have been caring for the various sites has paid off – well done all. work previously undertaken by myself, as Our AGM took place on 4th November, I am also stepping down from this role. at which the Committee paid homage This means that there will no longer be a to Nigel Stark who had been a member ‘Best Garden’ competition. of TIBA for many years and contributed Cherry Hammon

NEW! CHAIR YOGA CLASS For anyone with mobility issues Come and get more flexible, stronger and chill out! Thursdays 12.30 to 1.30pm Castle Community Centre in Torrington To find out more or book your place Please call Ruth Chambers on 07789 020668 6

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what’s on this

Christmas!

Parish Church at Christmas

Big Sing 2019

Wednesday 11th December 7pm Torrington Pannier Market

Free Parking this Christmas!

Great Torrington Christmas Lights Switch On

Saturday 30th November 5.30- 6.30pm oin us for a traditional Christmas carol service by the Christmas tree in the Square, with Torrington Silver Band. We have new Christmas lights this year that will be switched on by our Mayor. There will be mince pies, tea and coffee available for all to enjoy. We hope you can join us!

Cavaliers’ Christmas Giveaway!

he children of Torrington are invited to come and see Santa and his Cavalier helpers on Saturday 21st December at the Town Hall from 10am until 1pm. Children get a FREE goodie bag from Santa and there’s hot mince pies and hot mulled cider for the adults! We hope to see you there!

orridge District Council has confirmed that the ‘small businesses free parking day’ across ALL Torridge District Council car parks will be on Saturday 7th December 2019. Great Torrington Town Council Members unanimously agreed to cover the cost of free parking at Sydney House Car Park only on the following Saturdays: 14th and 21st December 2019 between the hours of 8am and 12 noon. Additionally, the Town Council agreed to have its second allocated free parking day on Tuesday 24th December 2019. This applies to Sydney House and Barley Grove Car Park. Karen Chapman (Town Clerk), Great Torrington Town Council

What a Caper!

ith Christmas fast approaching, the traditional Christmas Caper race will once again be part of the seasonal celebrations. Organised by Torrington Amateur Athletics Club, the challenging 10 (ish!) mile route takes in some of Torrington’s most spectacular views. From the start at the Rugby Club, the course takes runners down through to Orford Mill and into Taddiport, along the Tarka Trail up to Watergate then through woodland tracks back to the Rugby Club. Every year, runners of all abilities take part; from experienced athletes to those new to running, and see this as a challenge. This year’s event takes place on Sunday 22nd December, race starting at 11am. Please enter online at torringtonaac. co.uk by 13th December. 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 with a prize for the best fancy dress! Good luck to all runners! Merry Christmas! Torrington Amateur Athletics Club

The Big Sing... Everyone Welcome!

he Big Sing is one of my highlights in the run up to Christmas. It is good that we can gather as a town to celebrate the joy of Christmas. It is a heart-warming occasion when people of all ages and backgrounds join together to sing our Carols and once more hear the incredible story of the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s Son. The Town Council, members of the Churches, Bluecoat School, Cavaliers and the Torrington Silver Band, along with many others have joined together to prepare the evening. We look forward to welcoming you. Don’t forget to dress up as one of the characters in the remarkable Nativity story. Do come along and join in with a host of well known Carols. We wish you a merry Christmas. Everyone is warmly invited. Rob Blackhall Methodist Minister

Chivenor Ladies’ Choir, Christmas Fair and more! e are delighted to announce that after two years of silence, St. Michael’s Church bells will ring out once again this Christmas time. We look forward to the wonderful events of the Christmas season, and to joining with townsfolk to celebrate in traditional style. Everyone is welcome to come along to all our events and services which are listed in The Crier diary. Further details can be found on our website www.stmichaelstorrington.org. uk. If you would like to keep up to date by receiving our weekly newsletter by email, please send a short email to events@ stmichaelstorrington.org.uk. On Saturday 30th November we are delighted to have the original Chivenor Military Ladies Choir in concert in the Church at 7pm. Tickets are available on the door. Songs will include some of the favourites that made the choir famous with Gareth Malone, including ‘Wherever You Are’. Sunday 1st December brings the start of the Christian Advent Season with a quiet reflective service of music and readings at 6.30pm. On Saturday 7th do come along to our Christmas Fair from 10am-3pm. Father Christmas will be in his grotto. There will be lots of stalls, refreshments and free entry. The life of Lady Anne Palmer, founder of Rosemoor, will be celebrated at a service in St. Michael’s on Wednesday 11th December at 12 noon. Many of you will have read about her extraordinary life in the local and national press. Everyone is welcome to attend. With all good wishes. Peter Bevan, Vicar

Cavaliers’ New Year’s Eve Disco in the Square

lease join us in the Square on New Year’s Eve to welcome in 2020, with lots of music and dancing. As in past years the Cavaliers will be staging the traditional New Year’s Eve disco in the Square from 8pm to past midnight. Free music all night, so we look forward to seeing you there to see the New Year in with a bang. We hope you can join us. Great Torrington Cavaliers

Tarka Pottery

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Rosemoor at Christmas

Winter Sculpture Exhibition until 31 January 2020 osemoor’s Winter Sculpture Exhibition continues through into 2020 with an exciting and eclectic mix of exhibits from a diverse collection of sculptors, spread throughout the Garden. Pick up a trail and see how many sculptures you can discover. Most of the pieces exhibited are for sale. Normal Garden Admission, daily 10am-5pm. Rosemoor GLOW (Selected Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays until 8pm) Follow the magical illuminations along a new route through the brand new Cool Garden and to the Lake again following the overwhelming feedback from visitors last year. Come and enjoy the magical illumination of the garden in the depths of winter as you have never seen it before. Remarkable, hi-tech colour-changing lights illuminate the trees, shrubs, water features and sculptures making an amazing show to delight and enthral visitors. Rosemoor’s Garden Kitchen restaurant will be open late with a special family friendly hot pre-booked ‘Simple Suppers’ menu. Normal Garden Admission includes entry to Glow. Christmas Food & Craft Fair 14 & 15 December Come and buy unique and wonderful gifts from a mixture of food and craft stalls in the Garden Room. With artisan traders from around the West Country, there is sure to be something for everyone. Saturday 11am -7pm, (to coincide with Glow) and Sunday 10am -4pm. Magic of Christmas Santa Experience 20-23 December (Ticketed event) Father Christmas will entertain your family with a festive storytelling session in his magical workshop theatre. He’ll be joined by his elves who will teach children Santa’s favourite Christmas song and help them to make a beautiful decoration for their Christmas Tree. Your family will have the opportunity to meet some of Santa’s Reindeer and of course, each family will get the chance to meet the big man himself.

Mayor’s Charity Bingo

ome and join us for charity prize bingo on Friday 6th December at the Torridge Vale Social Club, with bingo caller John Kelly. Doors open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm, 12 games for £8 and two flyers at £1 each. Snacks while you play! Come along and support the Mayor’s Appeal for two local charities – there are lots of lovely prizes to be won! Keeley Allin, Mayor of Great Torrington

Make Your Own Natural Christmas Wreath

Join us at the Town Hall on Saturday 7th December 10am to 2pm. ocal legends Ann Ayre, President of The Atlantic Flower Club, and Elaine Weeks, long standing member of the National Association of Flower Arrangers, will be joining forces to share their expertise and skills to guide participants through the process of preparing and arranging a stunning Christmas wreath. The day will start at 10am with a wreath-making demonstration by Ann and Elaine. This will teach participants how to add depth and texture to their wreath by adding bundles of seasonal foliage, moss and berries to a wire frame. Following this demonstration you will have the opportunity to make your own wreath, with Ann and Elaine on hand to help and guide you. Basic materials will be provided but if you would like to add your own personal touch, you can bring along your own selection of festive decorations such as dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, baubles, fairy lights, ribbon etc. Be as creative as you like! Tickets cost £10 and will include the wire ring and basic materials, tea, coffee and festive treats. Please bring your own pair of sharp scissors. For further information please contact Anne Tattersall on 07971 696 192 or Helen Rumbold on 01805 625662.

December & January Events at The Town & Community Hall

Dates for your Diary Topiary Trees 4th December 10.30am-1.30pm Cost: £21 book on-line www.learndevon.co.uk or ring 01237 472462. Using a selection of festive fabrics and ribbon you will learn how to create your very own topiary tree decoration. Our textile topiary trees are an environmentally friendly festive decoration you can use year after year to celebrate Christmas. All resources will be provided. Please bring a bag to take your topiary tree home in. For any information on any of these events or if you would like to become a Town Hall Titan and volunteer, please contact Anne Tattersall on 0797 1696192 Torrington Town & Lands Distribution Day Friday 6th December 9am-2pm Tea/Coffee will be available. Prize Bingo Sunday 8th December Eyes Down at 3pm Come and enjoy a lovely Sunday afternoon prize Bingo in the company of caller John Kelly. ‘GTXMAS Rocks’ Friday 13th December 7pm Tickets £10 (includes supper) Put on your party clothes and polish your dancing shoes and get ready for a sensational Christmas party bash! Rehearsals are well underway for this year’s GTS Christmas concert. ‘GTXMAS Rocks’ is an exciting new concept and Great Torrington School will be showcasing some fantastic musicians from the school’s music department. This sophisticated evening will give guests that warm Christmassy feeling, while the talented young people in your community play popular Christmas pop tunes and you enjoy cheese, wine, desserts and a little bit of dancing! Tickets available from Great Torrington School 01805 623531 or finance@gts. devon.sch.uk. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Winkleigh Singers to Perform Handel’s Messiah

he Winkleigh Singers will be performing the Christmas movements from Handel’s Messiah, along with a selection of traditional Christmas carols, with audience participation, at All Saints Parish Church, Winkleigh, on Saturday 14th December at 7.30pm. Accompanied by Tom Bayliss on organ and keyboard, and directed by Roland Smith, the audience will enjoy some of the most popular pieces from Handel’s great oratorio, including, ‘For Unto Us a Child is Born’, ‘Glory to God’ and ‘His Yoke is Easy’. Tickets are £10, with accompanied U16s free. Tickets available from www.winkleighsingers.org.uk or from Winkleigh PCC members.

Little Torrington Christmas Events

ur monthly coffee morning will be on Monday 2nd December 10am-12pm. Come along and enjoy coffee, chat, and homemade cake in the Victory Hall. Why not start the festive season on Friday 6th December at our annual dinner dance? Dancing to the Texans, carols at midnight, 7 for 7.30pm, tickets £16 from 01805 623296 or irenemdaniel@icloud. com. St Giles’ Church invites everyone (young and old) to a ‘Decorate the Tree and Christingle Service’ on Sunday 8th December at 6pm. Come and join in decorating the Christmas tree (decorations provided) and filling the manger with toy animals. Enjoy a festive service with favourite carols. The Carol Service is on 22nd December at 6.30 pm, with refreshments following in the Victory Hall. The Village Players are proud to present the ‘NOT so LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD’ pantomime on January 30th, 31st, and February 1st in the Victory Hall. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm performance. Tickets from Bob Harrod on 07918 865 777 or Jen and Peter Hood, 01805 622 433. The Hall committee is pleased to announce the complete refurbishment of the kitchen, making it an ideal venue for Christmas parties and social functions. To make enquiries and bookings contact Rose 01805 625 194.

Christmas Crafts & More at the Plough!

hen you come into the Plough Arts Centre in January prepare to be amazed. We are having new seats on the balcony funded by Viridor and a whole new staircase - constructed by WM Ironwork. We have also received funding from Awards for All and Torrington Alms and Lands Trust to install automatic fire doors, which will make it even easier for everyone to get into the Plough to see the delights on offer. The new doors are going to be installed one at a time through the coming months. Up until 22nd December, The Plough is the place to get your original Christmas Crafts gifts. Featuring 36 local makers we have everything from ceramics to fabrics, jewellery and basketry. We are open Mondays 10am-1pm, Tuesdays - Saturdays 10am-8pm and Sundays 2-8pm. And downstairs in the cafe we are showing the work of Nicky Montague. In January, after our dramatic refurbishment, we have a themed series of shows, events and workshops entitled ‘Four Hugs Wide’ which deals with our relationship with trees. The photographer Harry Borland, better known for his celebrity portraits (everyone from Margaret Thatcher to Tony Blair, The Spice Girls to Bjork) has been photographing people in Devon who have a love of trees and these portraits will be accompanied by essays written by Mireille Thornton from Clovelly. Accompanying the show will be a workshop on Thursday 23rd January and a discussion on Thursday 30th January. Don’t forget - January sees the start of a number of regular evening and daytime workshops in print, illustration and watercolour. See our website for details www. theploughartscentre.org.uk.

Charity Christmas Fair & Grotto

he Northam Care Trust will be hosting its annual Christmas Fair and Grotto on Sunday 8th December 2019 from 12-4pm at our Rose Hill Activity Centre on Heywood Road, Bideford, EX39 3PG. There will be many stalls with festive crafts and gifts to purchase, fun games and activities to enjoy and Santa will be in his grotto to hear the children’s wishes and give a gift. Hot food and refreshments are available, as well as our bountiful cake stall. Enter and park for free, and bring the family along. All money raised at this charity event will go towards a mobile hoist to allow our clients to be fully supported whilst still enjoying holidays.

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The Appledore Singers Charity Christmas Concert In aid of North Devon Hospice

The Appledore Singers’ Charity Christmas Concert will take place on Sunday 15th December, 2.30pm at Northam Hall (top of Fore Street). This year’s concert will be in aid of North Devon Hospice (charity number 286544), a very worthy cause. The Choir will delight the audience with arrangements of festive music – both traditional and modern - and, as always, there will be the opportunity for audience participation! The afternoon’s entertainment will also include our popular Grand Raffle. The choir, accompanied by Chris Beechey, will be conducted by our Musical Director, Pam Beechey and our entertainment will be ably compered by Anthony Chambers. The audience will undoubtedly leave with a spring in their step! Admission is £6 at the door (under 16s free), to include light refreshments. For further information contact Pam Beechey 01237 420652. ‘Seek a Smile thro’ Song’

Torrington Library News

Upcoming events: * Tuesdays 3rd &10th December 10.3011am. NEW: Bounce & Rhyme Storytime * Saturday 7th December. Friends of Great Torrington Library’s Christmas Celebration: The Christmas tree will be dressed, the lights on and there will be treats for our library visitors. Christmas stories 10am and 10.30am; Christmas crafting 10.45am-12pm * Friday 13th December & Friday 24th January: Little Fingers pre-schoolers crafting 10.30-11am * Tuesday 17th December: Spanish Storytime 10.30-11am * Thursday 19th December : A preschooler event. Vote for us at your local Tesco! Drop your blue tokens to support Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs Devon & Torbay Libraries. Libraries Unlimited want to create a brand new reading scheme for children, encouraging them to develop a love of reading at a young age. Please support us. Check out our Facebook page for regular updates of events and news. Did you know Libraries Unlimited is a charity? Donations are therefore always welcomed and appreciated. Torrington Library Opening Hours Christmas & New Year Closed: Tuesday 24th December – Friday 27th December. Open: Saturday 28th December. Closed: Tuesday 31st December. Open: Thursday 2nd January 2020. Kate, Kate, Becky & Michelle wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Bringing The Library To Your Doorstep

re you organised and enthusiastic about volunteering in the local community? A popular home library service run by Royal Voluntary Service is in need of a Volunteer Co-ordinator to manage its service from the Torrington Library. Although a voluntary role, it is key to maintaining the service within the Torrington area. Devon Home Library Service brings books to people throughout Devon who can no longer get to a library due to mobility issues, ill health or caring responsibilities. Volunteers choose and deliver books, sharing their love of reading and providing a friendly face and regular visitor to their ‘readers’. Provision can be long term or temporary, and includes those whose conditions give them good and bad days, limiting their opportunities to get to the library. Books can be provided in normal print, large print, audio and, increasingly, electronic formats. A volunteer co-ordinator promotes the service in the local area, makes initial visits to new readers, interviews new volunteers and matches them up with readers. It is varied and interesting and knowing that you are helping to combat loneliness and isolation in the local area can be hugely satisfying. A DBS check, referee and mandatory on line training will be required. To find out more about the role or request a more detailed role description call Cathy Saunders 07786 635 163, email: DevonHLS@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk, visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or contact your local library.

Tarka Valley Railway News

ur activities have remained undiminished as we head into mid-autumn. Track ballast has been delivered and laid, carriage renovation and undercoating continues, tank wagon underframe painted, blockhouse repaired and more work done on the brake van. Our two locos have also received much attention with the electrical gremlins of Torrington Cavalier finally resolved. The area at the rear of the coal dock has been cleared, and the spoil removed used to fill in sections of the overspill car park. Replies to our questionnaire published last month have been coming in and the results will be published when they have been collated. Many thanks to those who have responded. Finally, following positive articles in the local press, our ‘King Point’ appeal has now reached £12,000. Grateful thanks to those individuals and organisations who have contributed to date. Weekly updates and photos can be found on our Facebook page or visit our website www.tarkavalleyrailway.co.uk for more information. Rob Martin, Tarka Valley Railway

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GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Your Council, Working for YOU Lloyds Bank - Survey

From Your Mayor

t was an honour to represent the town at the Mayor of Tiverton’s Civic Dinner in early October; it was also Will’s first ‘black tie’ event! It was a lovely evening, particularly getting to know local organisations from around the town. A few days later I was honoured and excited to officially open No5 Hair and Beauty. It was great to see so many traders from around the town showing their support. It’s great to see a new business in the town and I give my very best wishes to Helen, Tony and their staff in this new venture. One of my goals for this year is to share civic experiences with other councillors, so that they can better understand the Mayoral responsibilities and widen their own experience of being a councillor. It was opportune, therefore, to have Cllr Bright join me for Lynton and Lynmouth’s Civic Service, which we both thoroughly enjoyed, as well as meeting some of the locals afterwards in their beautiful town hall. It was lovely to help to give out the prizes at the Torrington in Bloom Best Garden Competition. Huge congratulations to everyone involved, especially to Riley Sanders, the Young

Gardener of the Year and to Steve Ware for winning Best in Show. We are very grateful for the work Torrington in Bloom do all year round for Great Torrington, and it is lovely to see the community support them by making their gardens look so beautiful too. Will and I have also attended a couple of local events; a presentation by the Torrington Players of ‘A Wife for All Reasons’ by Stephanie Easton, and the Torrington Silver Band ‘Remembrance Concert’ in aid of the Royal British Legion. Both were fabulous evenings and really do highlight and showcase the local talent we have in this lovely town. Talking of which, there is a new ‘Knit and Natter’ group that meets at the new Town Hall, and over the past couple of months have worked hard on their poppy project. In early November I was very proud to unveil the project in the under croft of the Town and Community Hall. I was completely taken aback at the scale of the project - so much love, care and attention had gone into every poppy; it was very emotional. A massive well done and thank you to everyone involved in the project - you did Great Torrington proud and showed that we will always remember the sacrifices made for us. On 10th November I attended the town’s Remembrance Parade and Service. I was blown away by the

number of people who turned out for the parade; thank you all for representing all of your organisations and joining the community to say thank you to those who gave their tomorrow for our today. It was also a great honour to wear the poppy knitted by my Nan – a poignant family emblem. By the time this reaches you, I’m sure we’ll all be in the Christmas spirit. On behalf of myself and all at the Town Council, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. Cllr Allin Mayor of Great Torrington

Mayor’s Challenge – Love Your Town & Buy Local

ou may recall that I have challenged the community of Great Torrington to support our town traders and ‘buy local’ wherever possible. As we come up to Christmas, here continues the challenge – buy as many Christmas presents as you can locally. We have a myriad of different types of shops selling all sorts of unique, high quality gifts. Join with me as we support our local traders and also, grab some great gifts at the same time!

ollowing the closure of Lloyds Bank Plc in June 2017, the bank has provided a mobile service to the town. The mobile bank visits Great Torrington on a Monday and Thursday each week, and positions itself at the bottom of Sydney House Car Park. At the beginning of 2019 the Town Council approached Lloyds with regards to the positioning of the mobile bank. It is positioned at the bottom end of the car park and is an approximate walk of 200 metres from the top of the car park, which is also a further 100 metres from the town centre. The Town Council raised the possibility of having the mobile bank closer to the town and primarily at the top end of the car park. Lloyds Bank plc undertook a two-week survey with customers who visited the van in May. The outcome of their survey concluded that a high percentage of customers visiting the van were happy with the current position. As a result of this, Lloyds were naturally reluctant to make any changes. There has been concern however, that the survey would not have included those people who no longer visit the van due to its location and may have made alternative arrangements. For this reason, it has been proposed that the Town Council conducts its own informal survey, primarily to target those who no longer use the van, or limit use due to accessibility issues. Lloyds Bank has confirmed that they are in support of this action and has asked the Town Council to report any findings to them, for their consideration. Therefore, the Town Council would like to ask members of the public to respond to the following questions; 1. Have you stopped using the Lloyds mobile van due to its current location? Yes/No 2. Do you visit the van less frequently due to its’ current location? Yes/No 3. Would you use the van more if the van was situated at the top of the car park? Yes/No 4. Name and contact details (not obligatory) This questionnaire will also be available through the Town Council’s Facebook/ website pages, and paper copies in shops. If you have a view on this matter, please respond to the above questions and pass information to the Town Council, either by e-mail, (admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk) letter or handing your responses into the office in person, Castle Hill, Great Torrington EX38 8AA. The survey will run up to 31st January 2020 at which time we will collate responses and feed back to Lloyds Bank accordingly.

VE Day – Victory in Europe Day Anniversary

he 75th anniversary of VE day falls on Friday 8th May 2020. The Town Council is interested to hear from individuals and groups within the community regarding any activities being organised within the town, and additional suggestions to commemorate the above anniversary, and to pay tribute to the men and women who served during the Second World War. Please contact the Council offices by e-mail, letter, in person or by phone.

Christmas Opening Hours

The Town Council offices will be closed from 1pm Tuesday 24th December 2019 and re-open at 9am on Thursday 2nd January 2020. Karen Chapman (Town Clerk)

Remembrance Sunday

he Town Council would like to thank all who were involved in this year’s Remembrance Parade and Service. The weather was good to us, and it was lovely to see so many people attend and stand in remembrance of all those from our community who gave their lives, and those who continue to serve in the armed forces. The Mayor also attended the Cenotaph on Monday 11th November at 11am, laid a wreath and observed the two-minute silence.

Remembering a Former Councillor

t was with great sadness that Members and staff received the news of the death of Nigel Stark at the end of October. Nigel only stepped down as a Councillor in May of this year. During his time on the Town Council he brought valuable contributions from his extensive and rich experiences, both professionally and personally. Nigel was involved in many areas of community life over the years and served the town with diligence and passion. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and worked with him, and we continue to remember his family over this sad time.

Councillor Training

uring the past few weeks councillors have received training on social media, planning and, for new councillors and/ or those wishing to have a refresher, training on being a local councillor. Members are keen to be better equipped to serve the community of Great Torrington and we hope this training will be useful going forward.

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Jubilee Wood - Update

ver the past twelve months work on Jubilee Wood has progressed, with the help of town council staff, contractors and volunteers. 250 trees and shrubs were planted last winter, and more are due to go in during the present season. There are also plans for local pupils to help with this, to tie in with the Plough’s ‘Four Hugs Wide’ exhibition in the New Year. We will also be working to improve the paths across the site, putting in steps where necessary and improving access at the Stonemans Lane end, with the aim of creating a new link from the town onto the Commons. The meadow, which was mown for the first time in many years last autumn, had a second cut this September. We are working to reduce the vitality of the grass in this area with the aim of encouraging more wild flowers. Across the site there are areas where scrub, brambles and nettles will be allowed to grow, providing food and refuge for birds, insects and other wildlife. Jubilee Wood is in the stewardship of the Town Council and you can access it via the bottom of School Lane, where the road divides, and from Trafalgar Drive. We will be holding weekly weekday working parties over the next few months and anyone interested in joining us should contact the Council offices. Great Torrington Town Council

our Members of Devon WadoRyu in Torrington represented Wado Academy England at the Wado Friendship Cup in Rome, Italy in October 2019. Kieran Beer gained double gold in Under 14’s Kata and Kumite; Sabella McPake achieved gold in Junior Female Kata and a bronze in Junior Female Kumite. In the senior category Craig Hill achieved gold in Senior Kata and James Bolton achieved a gold in Senior Kumite, a bronze in Senior Kata and a silver in Team Kumite – all representing England. The Friendship Cup was held in Rome and had representations from England, Norway and Italy. The England Squad consisted of seven members, all achieving medals. Local referees Matthew Soanes and Andy Kilby also attended with two squad coaches. Huge congratulations to the squad on their fantastic successes, and they will now be building on their achievements and looking forward to their preparations for Japan 2021.

Parkinson’s Torridge Branch Needs You!

he Torridge Branch of Parkinson’s UK provides support for people with Parkinson’s, their families and carers and we cover much the same area as Torridge District Council. We do this by holding monthly coffee mornings in both Holsworthy and Bideford, as well as a whole raft of events and activities aimed at improving the lives and wellbeing of everyone affected by this disease. We are currently hoping to recruit new volunteers to continue and expand this important work. You don’t need to be directly affected by Parkinson’s, only have ability and enthusiasm to join us. We need a newsletter editor/compiler, a branch librarian, a meeting minute taker, someone to help with admin, an event and transport organiser, a workshop/seminar organiser, and of course lots of people to help with the important things like making tea and coffees and fund raising etc. particularly in Holsworthy. It involves nothing too onerous or challenging but we do have a lot of fun. So, if you think you could offer as little as a couple hours a month give our secretary Julie Jones a ring on 01237 478128 or email jjones53@btinternet.com. Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch, Bideford.

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Torrington Horticultural & Garden Society

e made some important decisions at the AGM in November, including having a Spring Show and Coffee Morning in the Town Hall Undercroft on the 4th April. Anyone can enter and we are hoping for a colourful display of spring flowers. The schedule of classes will be on display in the town from January, so plant a few extra tulips and daffodils with this date in mind. The cakes will be good too! The annual award for Plant of the Month went to Joyce Wooldridge (again) and Flower of the Month to Alison Purchase, well done! We were very pleased to have been presented with a “Thriving” award in the SW in Bloom “It’s Your Neighbourhood” category. We are now hoping to get a top award next year for the flower bed at the junction of New Road and Well St. We are delighted that Coastal Recycling has agreed to donate a load of much-needed compost, which we hope will give the bed more resilience in dry weather. You can follow these events on Facebook. Our 2020 year starts on Tuesday 4th February, when we meet at 7.30pm in the Methodist Hall and Roy Crook will be talking about the role of bees in the garden. For more information give me a ring on 01805 623152, or email sallyramsdenindevon@hotmail.co.uk. Sally Ramsden, Hon Chair

From The Great Torrington Buildings Preservation Trust

s the end of the year draws to a close, on behalf of the Trustees of Great Torrington Town and Community Hall, I would like to thank everybody who has supported us over the past eight months since our newly refurbished Town Hall opened to the public in March of this year. Our aim was to ensure that after the final phase of the build, we would have a wonderful restored community building which would be accessible to everybody - not only for now, but for future generations. We have been encouraged to see the wide variety of organisations and individuals who have used the building to date. We have hosted weddings, civic events, anniversaries, workshops, meetings and small theatre shows. Charity pop-up-shops in our Undercroft have proved to be highly successful events for a variety of charities to raise funds. I would like to thank Anne Tattersall, our part-time Business Development Manager who has worked tirelessly since our opening. Together with community support she has organised our first Great Torrington Community Awards evening, and the forthcoming Christmas lunch for anyone in the community who may be alone this Christmas. Her love of this town shines through in everything she is doing on our behalf. Two other important members of our team are Duane Cartwright and Sharon Prisk, who are looking after the caretaking and housekeeping side of the business. Both take great pride in their work and we greatly appreciate their flexibility and commitment. We are also extremely fortunate to have our own ‘Town Hall Titans’ (volunteers) who come along and give their time freely at our various events and fundraising activities. Our Titans have also helped with lots of behind the scenes duties which include IT, admin and photography duties. Our Knit and Natter group and the wider community did an amazing job of putting together a spectacular display of knitted, crocheted and crafted poppies. We are very proud to have been involved with this, and I hope lots of you managed to see this amazing community project. We are now looking forward to 2020 and have lots of exciting projects and events in the pipeline. Anne is busy putting together a programme of events for our Festival of Female Voices in March, so look out for more details in the Crier. We have also been successful in securing funding from the European Social Fund to set up a Work Club and Community Information Hub. So, if anyone in Torrington or its surrounding parishes is unemployed and would like help in securing employment, please come and register at the Work Club in January. Finally, thanks to Becky and Esther at the Crier, and their team of local distributors. Without your support, we would not be able to publicise the Town Hall to so many local people. Richard Rumbold, Chairman Report from the Chair of Great Torrington Town & Community Hall (The Great Torrington Buildings Preservation Trust Limited)

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16 e eat an awful lot more nuts these ichael Beer was born in Great see action at the Somme, the German Sapper Michael Beer was killed in Christmas! days than we ever used to; in the Torrington Devonian in 1892. His father,is strung retreatacross to the Hindenburg Line, the Arras the engagements on 22nd March, th in even earlier times: to the Roman dialect the On the 16 November there will be a earned millions of dollars in royalties n Saturday Enrico Caruso bottle Whibble!” events to celebra past, nuts were only eaten during the also Michael, wasat– Barnstaple andwater the Third despite earlier reports that he had been festival of retail Flora, sales goddess of fruit and square Torrington inisaid known asoffensive a th th lunch of ACWW, from the of the resulting 9 November That joke was told to me on a balmy Diamond (25 February 1873 – Year 10 have been flowers. This tradition, symbolizing rebirth friendly town and this is no better autumn and winter months or when they were mason, originally However, taken captive. As well as the Great Jubilee in J the Associated Country Women of Battle the of Ypres. 78rpm discs. In Italy ina 1902-1903, he from and warm Wednesday in 1976 WO2 Michael Bingo is particularly relevant Exeter to usandtoday, displayed than at the May Fair. In this era toTorrington write perAugust 1921)a Silver 2ndasked in season, but like most foods of today, better was to of which the WI nationally itiswould be at the Battle of Torrington warby memorial, is at Roboroug World, a cut five batches of records for themarried Band hosted a Concert Mick O'Neill whenalso every day was filled take war place on the 6 breathing new life into the winterborn of our of social isolation, the May Fair provides suasive review about ofa Part 2 storage facilities mean nuts are available most of Lavinia, in Frithelstock. Saint Quentin where they remembered on the Totnes member. widely known, the Gramophone and Typewriter Remembrance dedicated with withgreatest laughter, and beingwhere a British community. the medicineNot of friendship, inclusion would and What a great there are for no fair shame or festival the year. But what, actually, are we eating when From 1891 to 1901 we see their memorial, he lived his adultgood prizes ACWW has representatives from many Company. He was later heard live from Moreover, in keeping with the spirit of support. The fair encourages community Draw. soldier was the best job in the world; to the heroes that fought digital mastered recordingsassessment. of Caruso. their GCSE English we break open the packet of mixed nuts – are find them living at 35nationalities; Mill years. His headstone can be foundEyes at down at working relieftest. of the stage ofchildren the Metropolitan rejuvenation, are the focalOpera point life as the young and oldtowards join together for Please being paid to fulfil an adventure for our country. All proceeds raised One cannot imagine how wonderful his they nuts at all? Street in the town. Record The plan at Saint the Pozieres Memorial in the Sommesee future Here is Charlotte’s timely reminder poverty and sickness, promoting health House in theMuch first public radio of the festivities. against Mr Gove’s the common good. What better way is German for events in 2012. seemed unnecessary. Six years later from the concert were donated to The voice was. The botanical description of a nut is a single of Michael found Quentin, where the poor area of France. Sadly, I was unable to of one such fair we should treasure. and advancing education. It’s down-tobroadcast in 1920. better wishes, Torrington’s schoolscan arefirst be there to bring neighbours together? he was killed dealing with an IRA car Royal British Legion and we were Caruso’s 25-year career, stretching seed contained within a hard, woody shell (the ontell thecommunity School Admission defensive positions were find any descendants of Sapper Beer, or earth approach offersfarmutual support In the next you about closed to issue allow I will full People come from and wide to bomb, leaving a family and many be match funded TT of his operatic roles. from 1895 delighted to 1920,to included 863 by pericarp) and that this shell is indehiscent (it and the practical to Fair. women and as a soft target, was to any photos, but I would appreciate any some Register 1898 where seen participation. What could be from more enjoy delightshelp of May They also Sending Out a Mayday friends who remember a good man appearances at the Barnstaple. New York Electronics, A member of then communities acrosswith the them! world. The split Until good listening appealing than watching theiscrowning of Great bring their money fair the enemy lines where doesn’t split open to release the seed when he enrolled at information you may have. For Our Spring Fair will, as they say, be forever the Metropolitan Opera before he died of works our band, Matthew Bradley, for the May Queen? The procession of Blue boysCoatreplenishes the coffers of theand town – forces who To findbyout about theBritish ACWW and the Bob Dymond mature). Most of the nuts that we eat don’t live up to this description at all, with the Torrington School his French met, and punch Michael Newcombe we allow Torrington’s tradition to smiling twenty-seven-year-old I anCan infection at age of 48. 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The bombardment would when you think of Torrington’s Fair? Our Annual Meeting information will take place avenues available to £1110 him. May He be was, maypole is ceremoniously woven. opportunity to advertise their wares. incredible will donated. Many th Have you ever tho ring President, Joyce Ridgwell on Abbeyfield News For many it is the image of the maypole, grows below ground! This is probably why some people are allergic to them, since as hisare parents, he is joined be the largest ever seen on the Western We will onJust Wednesday 9 November. nonetheless, a client of Edward as the colours on As thewell maypole Charities also benefit: collection tins are to TT itElectronics for supporting 01805 623588. a brass s we come to the end of instrument o and thanks sunshine; would be bean seeds contain all kinds of toxins of which not everyone is immune to.laughter by five siblings, Fanny, Lavinia, John, Front, and the subsequent attack would be electing a new Bernays during latter’s tenure as a intertwined, so the May Fair breaks down soon full to overflowing. us. the previously? If you 2019, we would like to take difficult to imagine Torrington without it. President and Almonds look like nuts but they aren’t, being members of the Prunus family, theagent Louisa William. AllYet theitchildren thehistoric largestcelmilitary operation of any social barriers as itand appeals is oftenare argued be that press inWe thewould USA.likePublicity in to invite you all to local band, come alo Yet today, our historic tradition is the opportunity of saying a Great Torrington committee the same as apricots, plums, peaches, etc. Here, the outer pericarp is fleshy (almond of Choirs, school for age or below. army since the German invasion of to everyone. dance ebrations are archaic and anachronistic. Caruso’s time relied newspapers, under threat. It is easy on to allow our Christmas Concert on Saturday Howe Concert Hall, C huge ‘Thank you’ to the staff, house following year, Town Hall Project pericarp is not edible, by the way) and the woody inner part contains the seed. We By 1911 Michael had to Totnes 1914. The most decisive hammer-blow groups and majorettes all On moved the contrary, Torrington’s festivities particularly th st services, the pressureswire of modern life tomagazines, 21 December at Howe Concert Hall. Nov onwards, on 14 committee, friends’ group and other taking a look back By the time this report appears in take to the stage: a feast for with revitalise the old traditions. In the current eat only the fleshy outer part of the pericarp of the closely related apricot and discard and was boarding the Eastman would come at Saint Quentin, where the photography and the cultural telephone. slowly strangle All Things Vintage, Weour will be performing a repertoire of volunteers who enable us to live life to all ears. we have the eyesat and Local climate of you apathy, laziness andwould be the 5th Army The Crier, have noticed the woody bit and seed! family, living at 1 High Street, where he willopposing force Caruso’s biographers, Pierre Key, heritage. In this fast age of musical masterpieces to suit all ages Retro & Kitsch! dignitaries are happily indifference, the May Fair lifts our spirits the full. Nothing is too much trouble for experienced in the last year and then scaffolding has been put Walnuts, pecan, cashew, pistachio and, yes, coconuts are also technically not Bruno Zirato and Stanley is pursuing a career as a tailor. and the 21st Division, which included the high-tech gadgetry, mass Jackson th and tastes including many festive peltedpreview in theMichael stocks and forand transforms Torrington into a vibrant getting a sneak of speakers them! up to facilitate the repair This November 24 , come along to attribute his fame not only to his voice nuts, the pericarp is partly fleshy or spongy or, in the case of coconuts, fibrous. enlists service at the 97th Field Company and Sapper Michael media and instant subjected to and duckings. The community. Despite the continual numbers! always a booked for 2012. Cups prizes willin 1914. of the roof and We have enjoyed as well as the British Red Cross charity shop outings in and musicianship, also to a there keen will be gratification, there is but littleAs time These ‘nuts’ are all actually ‘drupes’ which are single seeds contained within a fleshy outbreak of war Joining the make the Beer. Mayor has awho lavish lunch, to development of modern technology and be awarded for those did best in raffle with some fantastic prizes plus building water-tight for activities within the house and we all Torrington. We have everything from business sense andmatters: an embrace of left for what really outer layer, ie, blackberries and raspberries (which are drupelets). Corps of Royal Engineers, he signs up spent Following the crushing artillery many are invited. The increasing time at computer ourthe optional which monthly competitions, and the winter. It will be tea/coffee and mince pies during enjoy the freedom to come and go as community life. Today, more commercial sound recordings, then in Ladybird storybooks to vintage Brazil nuts are contained within a hard shell which is actually part of the seed itself inbellows Exeter as sapper with the Service came the ground attack, which town crier be as atea he screens, year’s barrage record-breaking there will, of course, time for enclosed last in waterproof interval. Doors will open at 7pm and the The Christ than ever, it is essential to we please. its infancy. Many well-known opera crockery and beautiful vintage clothing (the testa). If you ever see Brazil nuts on the tree, they are contained within a hard Number 46955. Michael is attached to is still commenced on turnout shows there place forarea livethe 21st March. The and a natter.proudly marches the streets sheeting to protect the aworking keep our historic celebration alive. Our concert will begin at 7:30pm. Tickets As you are aware singers of Caruso’s time rejected the We are looking forward to another to wonderfully kitsch homeware. capsule and arranged in segments, the capsule eventually falls to the ground and the 97th Field Company. for the of Being his predecessors The Torrington entertainment. Given conditions the choice of attackers were perfect rather nifty and at getting through and to minimise any risk to the internal week of annual festivity on will be available thetheir door atSilver £5, entry is visits, provided phonograph (gramophone) andfosters year stimulating talks and and in the S The event will run forofthree days and Band pulsates likeThe the97th beating playing of a the video game or participating in over the battlefield breaks open or is gnawed by animals and the seeds dispersed. Field Company Royal as dense fog lay so the business side of things, we will also friendship, a sense of belonging andbut a fabric. At the same time, a series of for children Everyone welcome! voices have been lost asis afree. result, positioned in the r hope8pm that you will visit we willtobe open until on the first us when heart of the community. Engineers were embedded the buzzinofthe the fair, I know which I would The pine nut is not a nut at all, since pine trees don’t have flowers; therefore, there the werewe blind what link with our past.including Wewould cannot letto this die.this opportunity manage a bit of time to welcome Bob photoelectric 21st panels will bedefending installed, troops to other singers Adelina Patti, We like take tower. This has cau day. So why not come along and have coffee mornings and ‘open house’ The grand finale of the May Fair week choose… is no pericarp (or outer, protective shell). Division under the wider umbrella of 5th was approaching. Army took As you walk the cobbled streets of our Brewer, who will give us the low-down reduce running-costs, and perhaps The 5thhave Francesco Tamagno andthank Nellieyou Melba to say a big to all the local traffic coming into t is the carnival, a spectacle of light and Today, the new enemy of a large-scale a look, try something on and events at Glen Tor. Chinese water chestnuts are actually an underwater corm, whilst ‘tiger nuts’ are town, you breathe antiquity. The Army. The end of 1914 and the half the brunt of thebyonslaught, which saw ancient onour the Fanciful Cavaliers. provide anfirst income the project exploited thebusinesses new technology once sound. floats journey through the town event is ‘Healthforand Safety’. As been suggested tha that have supported enjoy a glass of bucks fizz, you might We have one first floor bed-sit vacant tiny stem tubers. 1915 were spent in training, and it power atoGerman advance of some forty miles May Fair links present-day Torrington We whilst start the at 7pm inofare the Methodist selling surplus thebeNational they becameevents awarethroughout of the success of andtown streets lined with huge crowds gather, it could argued more suitable site w the year to wish even say “I used to have one of those"! and if you would like to find out more with the past, transporting us to a bygone If you are confused, don’t worry, just enjoy eating nuts, especially at Christmas wasn’t until town September that theyismoved the prize of the Amiens railway Church Hall, and prospective members Grid. cheering children. In the packed that there a danger reaching of an accident. Caruso’s recording sessions. be by the Town H them and all of our valued supporters about it, for yourself or a loved one, era – when life was simpler. – oh, and by the way, eat too many almonds and you could suffer symptoms Caruso made more that 260 extant to France. The introduction tothejunctions. are veryyou welcome visit for Anyimmediate Although this all work isridiculous being carried square, have notochoice but free. to mingle Nowadays, with rules (near the Green Lan a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Torrington has hosted the annual May give our house manager a call of cyanide poisoning! If you are considering roasting some chestnuts, please War was this a marchand across the Townlands country and Commonwealth casualties Bingo at please Roborough newmake members paying the their subs out by the payment and new friends. regulations it is Trust, aBritish struggle to recordings America for the Victor Café). ma Year. since inNew 1554. However, many on 01805 623605 to arrange a visit.Before You remember to make a slit in the skins beforehand to stop them exploding! Fair to link up with the British assault at the were in the region of 177,500, which month, get 14 months for the price of will be taken from funds set aside for be plaised to zee ee!’ The organise anything. In this age of Village Hall Talking Machine Company, (later RCA Silver ‘Uz any decision regar celebrations in England have their origins Torrington Band can be sure of a warm welcome. 12. How about that! banner Mayor’s welcome in Loos. thickThey countless litigation, ourincluded town is in 15,000 soldiers Fleur Battle of would go on to around killed. the project, which would havehall included Victor) from 1904 to 1920, and he A Roborough Diamond Jubilee Club the future position of has been formed to raise funds for Christmas tree, th

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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 18, 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) 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 Torrington Friendship Club for town residents - over 65. Weekly social event, every Thursday, Methodist Church Hall 2-4pm. Contact Margaret Woodman 01805 622096 Anxiety Support Group every Friday 11am-12.30pm at Lincontro Coffee Shop, South St, Torrington, all welcome. Facebook – Great Torrington & Surrounding Areas Anxiety Support Group Get Together Friends of Torrington (GTFOT) monthly meal, film, Beetle Drive for over 60s. Contact Marcia 07881 875 846 or drop into the Bickford Centre for coffee and a chat on Wednesday mornings. Headway North Devon day centre each Tuesday for people with an acquired brain injury, at the Salvation Army Church, Oakleigh Road, Barnstaple, EX32 8JT. 07971 174 960 or email headwaynorthdevon@hotmail.co.uk for further information. Parkinson’s UK Torridge Branch monthly coffee morning every 1st Thurs of the month from 10am @ Alwington Village Hall, nr Fairy Cross on A39 road out of Bideford. (look for sign on left to Woodtown). Julie Jones 01237 478128.

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, £3.50 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 in the Clubhouse. Torrington Bowling Club on Monay and Friday evenings from 6pm. All welcome. Contact John Pitts for more information 01805 439100 visit www.greattorringtonbowlingclub.co.uk

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. Visit:

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

torringtonmethodistchurch.weebly.com 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 Rugby club every Wed term time 6.30-8pm Mary Davis torringtondistrictguiding@talktalk.net Beaford Guides at Beaford Village Hall 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 Village Hall on Tuesdays 4.15 till 5.15pm for more information please contact Leanne 07842344302 or rainbows@girlguidingbeaford.co.uk Beaford Brownies meet at Beaford Village Hall 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 1st High Bickington Rainbows High Bickington Community Centre every Tue 5-6pm Sue Birch torringtondistrictguiding@ talktalk.net 1st High Bickington Brownies High Bickington Community Centre Fridays 5.30-7pm Angie Galliver Highbickingtonbrownies@aol.com SCOUTS IN TORRINGTON - All 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 7:309pm. Youth Club for 11+ Wednesday (term time only) Community 6 - 8pm @ High Bickington Community Centre ALLSORTS Children’s Club at Bluecoat Primary School, Fridays, 6.30-8pm. School years 1-6. Morag 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, 9am11.30am, 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 9.30-11am 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 morning 10am to 12:30, 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 07800 523 444 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, 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 2-4pm 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 Gypsy Q Line Dancers meet every Wednesday evening 7.30-9.30, Owl Barn Studio, EX22 7LW. Beginners welcome, 07853 319250 or owlbarnstudio@btinternet.com Torrington & District History Group meets second Monday of the month Sept-April, 7.30pm at the Methodist Church Rooms. Refreshments from 7pm. Interesting and varied talks, see diary for details. Outdoor visits in summer months. Details Sue 01805 624291. Board Game Club – join in fun, strategic games such as Risk, Evolution and Axis and Allies. All welcome to bring their own games too. Every Sunday at the Globe Inn, Beaford. 8pm start.

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Diary

To place an entry in the diary, please email torrington.crier@gmail.com, or write your entry in the diary on the Library counter. Diary entries are not created from articles received, if you submit an article about an event and would also like it feature in the diary section, please submit in diary format.

December 2019 Sunday 1st

Christmas Market, St Giles Parish Hall, 12-4 pm. Crafts, gifts, food & drink, face-painting, Father Christmas, stalls 01805 625727. Exmoor Carolers All Saints Church, Eggesford, 3pm. Retiring collection Plough The Original Gifts Exhibition until 23 December Plough Artists Wall Nicky Montagu until 23 December Plough Films: Mystify 3pm; Wise Children 7pm

Wednesday 4th

Devon Sensory Outreach Bickford Plough Theatre: Quirk Theatre: ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’ 10:30am & 1pm until 6th December

Thursday 5th

Plough Film: Monos 8pm

Friday 6th

Great Torrington Town & Lands Charity Distribution Day at Great Torrington Town & Community Hall 9.30am - 2pm. Please see posters around the town/article elsewhere for further information.

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Jameson 7:30pm Christmas Tree Festival at St Petroc’s Wednesday 11th Monday 23rd Church, Petrockstowe, until 8th Great Torrington WI, Methodist Rooms St. Michael’s Parish Church Carols by Monday 16th Dec. 10.30am-3.30pm entrance £1 Christmas Party 7pm. Visitors welcome. Candlelight 7pm was at Hatherleigh Community Centre Mayor’s Roborough Concert Community Rock Diary Plough Films: The Aeronauts 5:30pm; Plough Theatre: Above Bounds Plough Film: Shaun the Sheep: to see many of their residents receive Another hectic month has passed. Choir & Ashreigney Hand Bell Ringers Peanut Butter Falcon 8pm Theatre: ‘The Elves & The Shoemaker’ Farmageddon 3pm Community Awards. This is similar to Helen andChurch, I have represented the are performing on in St Peter’s 1pm Tuesday 17th Tuesday 24th the6pm; awards Roborough from 7pm, suggested Town Plough at manyFilms: civic Cielo Sorrywe We have in Torrington, Plough Film: The Aeronauts 8pm Family Crib Service for all ages St. which recognise people who have £5 donation to include entry and events,Missedincluding You 8pm Michael’s Parish Church 6pm Sir Duke here again – wow how made a difference to their town. refreshments, all money raised goingchurch to services for the Wednesday 18th Thursday 12th quicklyChurch a monthServices: goes by! 6.30pm Well AutumnMidnight Mass St. Michael’s Parish It was lovely to at last welcome, and the upkeep of the Church, all welcome. Chairs of North Devon Christmas Plough Theatre: Above Bounds Theatre: is definitely uponChurch 11.30pm be involved with, the Induction of Plough Film: Dogwoof 8pm District Council and Taddiport Chapel Carol Service ‘The Elves & The Shoemaker’ 10:30am us and many ofWednesday 25th Father Lawrence MacLean. We hope Plough Film: Here for Life 8pm Torridge District Saturday 7th & 1pm the rescue dogsChristmas Holy Communion at Little he and his family will be very happy Plough in Theatre: David Mynne performs Council. Natural Wreath Making Demonstration Plough Walk: Haunted History Tour: are gaining our town, and the Church Fete at the ‘A Christmas Carol’ at Tawstock Court theirTorrington 8am enjoyed to Bideford to Town Hall 10-2pm £10 toWe include wirea trip Rail & River atthThePlough@StAnne’s, winter coats inChristmas Holy Communion at Vicarage was a good opportunity for us (Pre show meal available) 8:30pm watch their£10Regatta and on 7:30pm 10 ring and basic materials Tickets (see Barnstaple readiness for theTaddiport Chapel 9am all to meet them. September watched the spectacular full details in this Crier.) Anne 07971 696 Plough Open Mouth Music & Poetry Thursday 19th onset of Winter! Christmas Eucharist at St. Michael’s The Co-op and Town Traders Bideford Massed Pipes and Drums, 192 or Helen 01805 625662 Plough Films: Here for Life 6pm; The (venue to be confirmed) 8pm We have been asParish Church 10am arranged a Harvest Festival in the visiting bands coming from all overSingin Charity Stalls in thewith Undercroft - Town Aeronauts 8pm Plough Film: in the Rain 8pm busy as ever with Pannier Market on the UK. Hall 9.30-4pm Please come along and Plough Theatre: David Mynne performs Friday 27th 13th the 11th September. three Court new dogsPlough Films: Frozen 2 11am; Shaun Barnstaple always a wellsupport our local organisations tea, Fair is Friday ‘A Christmas Carol’ at Tawstock Intention This was Fundraiser the first beingmeal takenavailable) in who were due to be putthe Sheep: Farmageddon 2pm; Downton supported day, with Plough all the Music: “Chain Soul coffee and refreshments (Pre show 8:30pm The Plough Centre 8pm and I organised to sleep – I don’t really know why asAbbey 4pm; The Good Liar 7pm out Parish in force toforcelebrate the Artsone Christmas Fair in St.Gang” Michael’s Saturday 21stand very friendly – they think it will become a they are lovely Church 10am-3pm tradition of the Fair. The weather was14th Saturday Plough Workshop: Play-in-a-Day: The Saturday 28th regular event on the even like children! Breakfast rolls, coffee cake 10amaround kindand as we walked town, whilstChoral Society North Devon Elves & Bruno, The Shoemaker 10am – puppy 4pm thatPlough Films: Frozen 2 11am; Shaun Torrington calendar. our 12-month-old to noon, meat raffle, 1st prize £25, 2nd the declaration of the Concert opening of withthe full orchestra in St. Plough Films:anShaun Sheep: is stillthe Sheep: Farmageddon 3pm; Downton Finally, we tried to attend as many needs eye the operation, prize £15, takeaway available. In aid of Fair was read. Immediately after the Michael’s Farmageddon 3pm; The Aeronauts Macmillan coffee mornings as possible bouncing around and we are 8pm well onAbbey 5pm; The Good Liar 8pm Weare Giffard Villageformal hall refurb/rebuild. part of the proceedings had by Bach and 7.30pm. Works Torrington Silver Band’s Christmas and in fact ended up going to five! our way to raising the £3,000 neededSunday 29th Plough Theatre: Quirk Theatre: ‘The Vivaldi finished, we dashed down to Newquay. Concert at Howe Concert Hall, Castle This is a wonderful charity and it‘s not for his operation. Velveteen Rabbit’ 1pm & 3:30pm Plough Films: Frozen 2 2pm; Shaun the It was time for Helen toBeaford put on aVillage ‘posh Hall Market Street. Doors openbeen at 7pm, concert Plough Music: The Finn surprising that it’s so well supported. We have chosen as starts one ofSheep: Farmageddon 5pm; The Good frock’Collinson for a reception 10.30am celebrating the to 12.30am tasty breakfast at 7:30pm. see to article for more in a Band + Support ThePlough@StAnne’s, Afterand all athose coffees three Please charities participate Liar 8pm ‘South West in Bloom’ competition. baps, coffee and cake chance to we went to the information Barnstaple 8pm Soap Kitchen shop to see Lesley and fantastic scheme run by Animal We still had to wait until the following buy from a range of stalls. Car washing Monday 30th Plough Film: Cielo 8pm Sunday Richard Phillips who celebrated ten Friends22nd Insurance. Basically the day to hear the results, £5. and New werestall proud Plough Films: Frozen 2 2pm; Knives holders welcome, please th St. Michael’s Parish Church years of business on 30 September. charity that receives the10am most votesOut 5pm; Judy & Punch 8pm announced Sunday 8th and delighted when it was ring 01805 603199 or 01805 603046 for Parishgets Eucharist Congratulations to you both. a whopping £5,000. So come on team had Christingle Service that at atthe St Torrington in Bloom details. Frithelstock Priory Church Carol vote for I look forward to hearing from you if all you Facebook fans, please won a Silver Gilt (last year it was Petroc’s Church, Petrockstowe COPY DEADLINE FOR Plough Storytelling: ‘Sir Gawain & theor anniversary you Service 2.30pm you have an event us, and pass the word around to all the committee, 11am all welcome silver). Thank you to Green FEBRUARY CRIER 9th Knight’ told by Sarah Rundle 7pm Little your Torrington Carol Service want to tell me about – just call me friends Church and family. It is simple to and individuals who work so Plough Storytelling traders Circle 2:30pm JANUARY 12 NOON Plough Music: Knight & Spiers at 6.30pm 01805 625662, or our secretary, vote, and costs nothing. Just go to: to Rain enhance Plough Films: Singinhard in the 3pm;our surroundings in Exmoor Carolers at The Plough, Lynton Town Hall 8pm; Clare Teal Duo Pauline at the Council offices on 01805 www.facebook.com/feelgoodpark and Peanut Butter FalconGreat 7pm Torrington. We will soon have Torrington, 3pm. Ticketsmenu £8 to include 8pm the judges 626135. on the left-hand you will see We couldn’t include the January diary the opportunity of meeting mulled wine & mince pie in advance Tuesday 10th to find out how we can do even Councillor Richard Rumbold ‘Vote for Charity’. Click this and it will in this issue due to a lack of space. better Sunday 15th from The 01805624624 or www. Plough Films: Peanut Butter Falcon Town Mayor takePlough you through to a page showing For Plough events please visit www. – our next challenge is GOLD!! Plough Theatre: A Dickensian theploughartscentre.org.uk ploughartscentre.co.uk 3pm; Sorry We Missed You 8pm charities in the scheme. Then click on Our last out-of-town engagement Christmas with Robert Powell & Susan Plough Film: The Aeronauts 7pm

Raise Christmas Cheer in Your Santa Gear at RHS Garden Rosemoor

hildren’s Hospice South West’s spectacular ‘Santas on the Run’ will be returning to RHS Garden Rosemoor this December. More than 350 people took part in last year’s festive 2k fun run – the first of its kind held at the gardens near Great Torrington – and this year’s event on Sunday, December 8th is expected to be even bigger. Registration is now open and entry includes a free Santa suit as well as entry to the gardens at Rosemoor and Christmas event village, with face painters, music and entertainment. Money raised through registration and sponsorship will help support nearly 200 children and families who use CHSW’s Little Bridge House children’s hospice in Fremington, near Barnstaple. Tickets are priced £16 for adults and £8 for children (under 2s are free). For more information, or to sign up online before Wednesday, December 4th, visit www.chsw.org.uk/santasrosemoor.

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Hi there, Freddie here! s you read this I guess most people’s thoughts will be of Christmas and the parties, food and family get-togethers. It’s a busy time of the year for everyone, and there is always great food around, but do remember that lots of the foods that we woofs love to eat are actually poisonous to us; mince pies, Christmas pudding, macadamia nuts, and of course rich food may well give us upset stomachs. There’s lots of information on the internet listing foods to avoid, and also on our website at www.k9focus.co.uk. Sadly this will be my third Christmas at the rescue, and although I know Aunty Lynne will have some special treats in store for me, I can’t help feeling sad for all the dogs that are in rescue and without a special family to care for them. The last few weeks has already seen an increase in the number of requests to the rescue to take dogs. We have had to refuse most as we only have limited kennel space, and very limited funds. So my wish for Christmas is that if you are thinking of getting a furby to share your life, please think about adopting before buying, as there are so many lovely boys and girls who are sitting waiting for their special home. I think this poem sums it up…

Tis the night before Christmas and all through the town Every rescue is full – we are lost but not found Our numbers are hung on our kennels so bare, We hope every minute that someone will care They’ll come to adopt us and give us the call, May even bring us a toy, a chew or even a new ball!! But until then we sit here and think of the days… We were treated so fondly when we had cute, baby ways Once we were little, then we grew and grew

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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 and details contact Penny Podmore 01805 626140 or 07766 711 124. Email: info@great-torrington.com, or call into the Tourist Information Centre at Castle Hill. Open Mon, Tue, Thu, 10am to 4pm; Wed, Fri & Sat 10am to 1pm Now we’re no longer young and we’re no longer new So out the back door we were thrown like the trash They reacted so quickly – why were they so rash? We ‘jump on the children’, don’t come when they call We ‘bark when they leave us’, climb over the wall. We should have been neutered; we should have been spayed, Now we suffer the consequence of the errors THEY made. If only they’d trained us, if only we knew… We’d have done what they asked us and worshipped them, too. We were left in the garden, or thrown out to roam Now we’re tired and lonely and out of a home. They dropped us off here without a kiss good-bye… ‘Maybe someone else will give you a try’ So now here we are, all confused and alone… In a kennel with others who long for a home. The volunteers come with a meal and a pat, So many to care for, they can’t stay to chat, They move to the next kennel, giving each of us cheer… We know that they wonder how long we’ll be here. As we lay down to sleep, sweet dreams fill our heads Of a home filled with love and our own cosy beds. Then we wake to see eyes, brimming with tears Our heart filled with emptiness, worry, and fear. If you can’t adopt us and there’s no room at the inn Could you help with the bills and fill our food bin? We count on your kindness each day of the year Can you give more than hope to everyone here? Please make a donation to pay for the heat… And help get us something special at Christmas to eat. The rescue that cares for us wants us to live, And many more of us will, if more people give. As well as donations the rescue relies heavily on volunteers to help clean and take us out for nice walks, especially at weekends. If you do have a few hours to spare and fancy a cuddle with some of us then please give Aunty Lynne a call on 07971 461 806 or email her at lynne@k9focus.co.uk. So that just leaves me to say have a lovely Christmas, and to wish all our supporters a very happy and healthy 2020. Woofs and Licks, Freddie

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A Mindful Approach to New Year’s Resolutions

n this frantic world how often do you jump from event to event, just trying to keep everything going? But in the rush to accomplish all those necessary tasks, do you find yourself losing connection with the present moment and sadly, missing out on what you’re doing and how you’re feeling, perhaps even losing sight of who you really are? Being mindful makes it easier to savour the pleasures in life as they occur, and creates a greater capacity to deal with adverse events. Many people who practice mindfulness find that they are less likely to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets over the past and are better able to form deep connections with others. This course, ideal for those who wish to learn to meditate, those who are olution Focused Hypnotherapy is a highly effective form of therapy, which is seeking to reduce the effects of stress attracting clients looking for support with mental and emotional struggles as or address the negative thought patterns that can lead to anxiety and depression, well as physical ones. There is no doubt that illness caused or made worse by stress are on the increase. comprises of eight two-hour sessions spread over eight weeks. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Enter the New Year with zero pressure agoraphobia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and migraines are all ways that excess to do anything other than remain open or sustained stress can affect our well-being. to the possibility of your potential, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) tackles these conditions by reducing receptive to change and ready to anxiety and helping clients to regain a sense of perspective; once anxiety is under show compassion to yourself for your control many troublesome symptoms are alleviated. The therapy encourages shortcomings? positive thinking by helping clients to focus on solutions to problems, rather than Remember what Albert Einstein said: dwelling on the problems themselves. Clients usually find their sleep patterns “Insanity is doing the same thing over improve and motivation, confidence and self-esteem are all enhanced. and over again and expecting different SFH is the brainchild of David Newton. David is the founder of the nationally results”. recognised Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy Training School originally founded in A trained practitioner with over 30 Bristol, and which now has training centres across the country. He explains: “Stress years of meditation practice, registered is a part of normal everyday life: dealing with household accounts and paperwork, and listed with the UK Network for traffic hold-ups, pressures at work, strains in our close relationships, health worries Mindfulness-Based Teacher Training — if the stress is sustained or excessive it can lead to a vast array of emotional, Organisations, I am committed to helping behavioural or even physical illnesses”. individuals find a way to negotiate the SFH differs from earlier forms of therapy by encouraging clients to formulate pressures and expectations of this a positive image of their problem-free future rather than analysing the cause or twenty first century life. symptoms of the problem itself. It is a highly effective and liberating approach. The next course in January 2020 will Local hypnotherapist Meg Palmer of Torrington Hypnotherapy says, “I welcome be held at The River Rooms in Bideford, the opportunity to help people and understand how hard it can be to make changes so please visit www.gentlemind.uk for without support. I have seen the tremendous benefits of focusing on solutions and more information. Alternatively, email encouraging positive thinking – clients find the approach amazingly uplifting”. me, James Murray, at info@gentlemind. Meg Palmer is a solution focused hypnotherapist practising from her home in Mill uk or phone 01769 302007 / 07866 545 Street, Torrington. Call 07814 522 591 for a chat in confidence or to book an initial 978. consultation. To find out more visit: torringtonhypnotherapy.moonfruit.com.

Hypnotherapy Promotes the Benefits of Focusing on Solutions

From Your County Councillor…

s we approach Christmas, I while the data think it is true to say that we live is generally in ‘interesting times’ nationally. accurate, But regardless of what happens in it can Westminster and with Brexit, the work nonetheless of the County Council does and will go lead to on. Throughout the Christmas period the wrong DCC will be looking after the elderly, the road being young and the vulnerable, and in my prioritised for last column I outlined some of the work repair. This the Council was doing with Health and new way Adult Social Care and in Fostering and of working Children’s Services. should, I It is worth remembering that the hope, address these issues and see Adult and Children’s Budgets at Devon greater community involvement over County Council account for nearly 75% local highway priorities. of the Council’s expenditure. If nothing On this subject, I was disappointed else, it is ironic that well over 75% of that the works to the footpaths in the emails I receive Torrington Town “...I also think we must take a longfrom residents Centre overran and term strategic view as to how we can are to do not with the adverse effect improve footfall in the Town Centre these services, but this had on local and boost our local economy in about Highways! traders. While this Torrington for the future.” Nonetheless our first was disappointing duty as a Council and lessons will is to protect people over objects, and need to be learned, I also think we while I know how important maintaining must take a long-term strategic view the Highway Network is, services for as to how we can improve footfall in vulnerable people will ultimately always the Town Centre and boost our local take up the lion’s share of the budget. economy in Torrington for the future. Nevertheless, we cannot protect those This is something that I want all three vulnerable people if our staff cannot of our Councils – County, District and reach them due to the state of the road Town – to work together on. I believe network! I think, overall, we have made through the Future High Streets Fund good progress within Torrington Rural there is potential in the future to draw in improving both our main roads but some funding down, and having spoken also many of our village roads that are to Torridge District Council’s Economy vital to maintain if we are to keep our Officer, I was pleased to support communities connected. through my Locality Grant - the funding More though does need to be done, of a workshop in Torrington to promote and I still think that work needs to be ‘town centre vitality and viability’. This done in improving the efficiency of though will only be the start of a long the Highways Department. This year, process, but it is better to start now than Torrington Rural has been chosen to do nothing. be part of a pilot to trial different ways It remains a great honour to serve you of working. Highways have met with as your County Councillor, and I would all 16 Town and Parish Councils in my like to wish all readers of The Crier a County Division, and towards the end very Happy Christmas and a peaceful of November I will be meeting with and prosperous 2020. As ever, if there Officers to discuss their priorities and are any County Council matters you the schemes that have been designed are concerned about, you can ring me to meet those needs. Historically DCC on 07886 446 560 or email andrew. has relied on computer data to tell them saywell@devon.gov.uk. which roads need to be improved, and

A Healthy Town

y Torrington members at Slimming World have lost a fantastic 6,983lb so far this year! That’s just January to October! We really are changing lives for the better, so if you would like to be a part of this please contact me for all the details. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and I look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

Merry Christmas from Torrington Rotary

ell I doubt if I am the first to wish you a Merry Christmas but who knows I may be, it seems to get earlier every year! Christmas is a time when, believe it or not, there is a lot of goodwill about; it’s not all bad news, Brexit or elections! Rotary is all about goodwill, not thinking of ourselves but trying to help others. This can be anything from donating funds to the hurricane-devastated Bahamas, to local matters in Torrington itself; such as helping the youth club or working with the school on young chef or youth speaks events. The trouble with Rotary, is we don’t actually shout about it all from the top of a hill, so often people are unaware that Rotary has done anything other than meet for a meal once a week. So, once the festivities are over and the New Year resolutions have to be made, why not make it one of your resolutions to pop up to Torrington Golf Club on a Tuesday evening, just after six, and see what we are all about? There is no pressure to join and what have you got to lose? I hope to see you there in January, I might even buy you a drink (did say might!) Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year to you all. Stephen Saywell President, Torrington Rotary Club

Torrington RFC

o yet another year draws to a close. Our 1st XV continue their efforts in Devon League 1. Our visit to Old Techs in Plymouth with a fairly depleted squad proved an uphill task, losing 38-24 in a fiercely contested game. The scoreline didn’t do us justice as we fought tooth and nail against Techs, with two breakaway tries proving our undoing on this occasion. Plymouth Arguam visited Donnacroft in late October. In a concerted effort to keep our heads up and maintain our league position, a 53-12 win did morale the world of good. With no games organised throughout the lower leagues on World Cup Final day, the clubhouse at Donnacroft, like many others up and down the country, opened up early. The club was absolutely packed with supporters, both young and old cheering on our boys. Sadly it wasn’t our day as South Africa strode ahead and kept England out of the game. The 1st XV paid a visit to Tamar Saracens on 9th November. With Sarries sitting top of the league it was never going to be an easy game. To keep the scoreline to 34-3 was an accomplishment in itself! Our points coming from the boot of Sam Britton. Our only home game in December is

Great Torrington History Group

e start off the New Year in fine form with ‘Murder, Mystery and Mayhem’, a tale of family history by Jan Stuart Windsor. Future talks planned include ‘Thatching’, ‘Bideford Cotton Industry’ and ‘The

against Dartmouth on the 14th. The annual Dave Hickman Memorial trophy match between Torrington Veterans and Bideford Veterans should be played between Christmas and New Year. A word of thanks goes out to Derek Hutchings of Peter Hutchings Agricultural Contractors for the cutting of the slightly overgrown 2nd XV pitch, and the machinery operator Matthew Waterson for donating his time to undertake the task, not for the first time. Thanks also to Asset Goods for their kind donation of a tumble dryer after our previous one gave up and died. Thank you both very much. It’s generosity such as this that keeps our costs down and enables our finances to be channelled elsewhere. As always, any new or returning players are welcome to join in the fun at Torrington RFC. Training is 6.30ish on Wednesday evenings. Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. C’mon Torrie! Mark Waterson Respect, Discipline, Sportsmanship, Teamwork and Enjoyment

Battle of Northam’. Outside summer visits are being planned too. More details to come. We are a friendly group, so do come along. Members £12 per year, or a modest entry fee for visitors. We meet

Weare Giffard History Books ‘The Story’ & ‘The Illustrated’

ay back in the year 2000, we as a village wrote up the history of our community. The main book was ‘The Story’ of the village from flints to even looking into the future. With so many photographs and graphics left over, we then set about ‘The Illustrated’ version, of similar size and with the same chapters, thus complimenting ‘The Story’. These are now out of print, and too expensive to consider a re-print, but we have a waiting list for both the above books, so if you would like to relinquish

“... if you would like to relinquish yours... We would be prepared to offer you a reasonable price.” yours, or you come across either in a charity shop or elsewhere, please contact us. We would be prepared to offer you a reasonable price. We also have a novel ‘The Riddle of the River’ by J. Weare-Giffard, a sort of Poldark of Weare Giffard, filled with smugglers and romance. This book is available on loan. All enquiries please contact Keith Hughes 01237 475168.

in the Methodist Church Rooms on the second Monday of the month at 7pm (for a cuppa), 7.30pm talks begin. Further information from Sue 01805 624291.

Why Advertise in The Crier? FREE Online business directory entry FREE Clickable adverts to your website in the online Crier FREE colour cover advert with 5 large adverts booked Your special offers promoted FREE on our Facebook page Affordable rates and FREE design of your advert Call Esther on 01805 601964 Email torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com 27

Torrington Ghost Stories

hen I was researching my book, ‘Torrington Uncovered’ (published 2013), from which my Crier articles have been taken, I spoke to a lot of local people. One elderly woman asked me if I’d heard about the ‘eadless ‘orseman’ who’d been seen by a number of people riding out of the trunk of a tree on Castle Hill common! He was said to be dressed in Cavalier clothing but he had no head and was consequently referred to as ‘Headless Harry’. A couple told me about a woman who saw the imprint of something on her bed, as if someone had been lying there, despite all her doors and windows being locked. They also knew of a woman in Well Street who saw the ghost of a Cavalier walking literally through the door of the pub. A woman who lived as a child in Bank House, Church Walk, in the flat over the former Midland Bank, said the ghost of an old lady was seen in the breakfast room area of the kitchen which was on the first floor overlooking the churchyard. The ghost walked behind her mother as she sat having a cup of tea with Mrs Halfyard in the late 1960s. A bedroom on the second floor, above the breakfast room, was thought to be very spooky by the family who lived there in the 1930s. No-one liked sleeping there. A local man saw a young girl standing by his bed in Windsor House. The sound of horses’ hooves have been heard in New Street around the Rolle Court area. A woman, who used to live in Warren Close, was very frightened when she

was woken one night by the sounds of battle. She was later told that fighting had taken place in that area during the Civil War. A solicitor at Stones’ office, South Street (now the museum) said that part of the building had a very cold, eerie feel to it. It is thought the building may have been an undertakers at one time. Cross House is said to be haunted by the ghost of a maid who jumped out of a top floor window and killed herself. I have often heard about a ghostly woman who has been seen in the lane which comes down the hill from Cross House to Taddiport. It is believed to be the ghost of Mary Richards, a young glovemaker from Langtree, who was murdered there in 1854. Her killer was Llewellyn Harvey, a chimney sweep from Buckland Brewer. He was hanged in public in front of Exeter gaol, where 10,000 people turned up to see his execution. The Green Lantern is an ancient building dating from the 17th century and has been a café and bakery for fifty years. The people there say they hear bumps and footsteps and things ‘being moved around’ in the top floor flat which lies empty and is ‘a spooky old place’. A radio, which had been turned off, was found to be on again when someone returned upstairs. A chimney sweep, who visited the house next door to Porch House in New Street, simply asked the owners, ‘Have you heard them ...?’ I am sure that there are many more instances of people feeling a ghostly presence near them, even in these

sceptical times, and, to quote from Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’, ‘There are more things in heaven and earth … than are dreamt of in your philosophy.’ Moira Brewer

“Wassail in Weare Giffard” Come one, come all! Saturday 18 January 2020

Torrington Players Present ‘Christmas Crackers’

t’s a cold winter’s night outside North Devon District Hospital as Keith the security guard keeps a watchful eye on lots of interesting characters coming and going. As he trudges through the humdrum of work, he dreams of being in a different place and being a different man. When Kath, an A&E nurse, receives two surprise tickets for Prague, a whole new adventure unfolds – and we would love you to join us for the ride. It really is a great play - it’s raw, comical and unpredictable at times. We will be performing at The Plough Arts Centre on Thursday 16th, Friday 17th and Saturday 18th January 2020 at 7:30pm each night. Tickets are £11, or £10 for concessions and £9 for Plough supporters and to book call the Box Office on 01805 624624 or visit www. ploughartscentre.org.uk and search ‘Christmas Crackers’. Please note, this play is not suitable for children. This amateur production of ‘Christmas Crackers (Godber)’ is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French LTD a Concord Theatricals Company. Samantha Bright, The Torrington Players

eet in the village park at 6.15pm for a 6.30pm start. There will be Morris Dancers, a mad axe man, musket shooting, verses and singing for the children, apple bobbing, toffee apples and glow sticks. Wassail: to drive away any evil spirits; to awaken the trees; to bless the community orchard; to wish good health to our trees; to ensure a good harvest. Bring rattles, whistles, pots to bang, instruments, all to make a racket. Bring torches, lanterns, fairy lights; let’s shine in the darkness. Bring a musical instrument, words and music provided. Attendees will share in a ‘small’ glass

of punch/cider/juice. Adorn yourself in greenery - ivy /holly etc. and wear warm clothing/wellies. Let’s have fun! Donation of £2, children free.

Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News

f you’re interested in eating more healthily, sustainably and economically, then this group is for you! Established in 2015, we have now have around 70 members and a simple ordering system run by our brilliant back office team. Our main supplier’s catalogue includes over 5000 grocery items, so plenty of choice! Our sharing scheme makes it possible for even small households to benefit from wholesale prices. We add a voluntary 10% to the final bill, which means no one in real need is excluded. The money raised covers overheads, volunteer expenses and promotional costs. Next Grocery Order Date: 22nd January. WellBeing Tip: Love food but don’t enjoy that stuffed Christmas feeling? Chestnuts, a traditional festive season food, are very nutritious and make lovely naturally sweet desserts or snacks. Here is a suggestion; vegan, gluten and sugar free. Use precooked or pureed chestnuts and a tin or jar of Aduki beans if you’re short of time. Kelp makes beans more digestible and gives a lovely mellow, sweet, deep flavour when cooked in to dishes. Use high quality traditionally fermented shoyu or tamari – commercial versions full of sugar and cheap additives won’t produce the desired result! Aduki Bean & Chestnut Balls Ingredients: for 6 people 450g/1Ib Aduki beans; 225g/8oz dried chestnuts; 1½ tablespoons Shoyu or a little Tamari; Grated rind of 1 lemon or tangerine; 2 x 6” strips of Kombu (kelp); 170g/6oz sunflower seeds Method: Soak the chestnuts overnight in enough water to cover. Wipe the excess salt from the Kombu and place in the bottom of a saucepan. Add the soaked chestnuts, chestnut soaking water and washed Aduki beans with enough water to cover and simmer for 1 hour 20 minutes. Add more water when necessary to keep the beans and chestnuts covered. Add the Shoyu and cook for another 50 minutes. Add more water if necessary, but at the end let all the water cook away so that the Aduki and chestnut mixture is quite dry. Use a flame tamer to prevent burning. Remove the Aduki and chestnut mixture from the heat and puree it in a suribachi or blender (better in a suribachi as it’s better if the mixture is not completely smooth, leave some bits in). Mix in the grated lemon rind and roll into balls. I also add a little rice syrup and sometimes some grated dark chocolate or coconut - have fun experimenting! Roast the sunflower seeds until golden and chop up. Roll the balls in the chopped seeds. I also use chopped almonds or coconut. For more information please get in touch. Warmly wishing you a wonderful festive season. Mary OWBG Website: owbg.jimdofree.com; Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group; Twitter: Follow us @owbg1 or #owbg; Facebook: Mary Crail Biofeedback & Wellbeing; www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk.

Covering North Devon & surrounding areas

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The Big Soup Share & Harvest Celebrations

he Clinton C of E School is a small rural school in North Devon that houses a large amount of outdoor space for learning. Over the past year, since the appointment of the new head teacher, Mrs Rachael Sharpe, the school has been working hard to develop an innovative curriculum that takes into account the local community, and offers opportunities for children to experience outdoor learning. Just last year Mrs Sharpe approached a class teacher, Mrs Bolton, and asked if she would like to lead on developing an outside learning space and garden and link it to the themes of learning the children study throughout the year – ‘Stewardship, Social Injustice and Service’. The new vision and values, which was written as a school community, places an emphasis on nurturing and loving one another whilst aspiring for excellence, and with this in mind Mrs Bolton embarked on a community wide project to inject life back into the outside space. This resulted in community clear up days, the planting of vegetables and the official opening of the garden area by Lord and Lady Clinton during the annual Coldstream Guards event. Whilst doing this the school managed to work towards their RHS gardening awards and currently have levels 1,2,3 and 4. However just this week the Eco Committee and Ethos Committee, made up by a selection of pupils within the school, worked hard to write and deliver a harvest worship at St. Petroc Church for the community, harvest the vegetables from the school garden, make a soup and then embark on the RHS Big Soup Share. They opened the school to the local community to share the food they had made, and in doing this the school has now been able to apply for the final, level 5 RHS gardening award to officially say they are a growing school. “It is wonderful to see children engage in the world around us through outdoor learning and consider how they can be courageous advocates for change. In school we value courage and aspiration and continually encourage children to take ownership and be positive citizens to our world. Seeing the outdoor space develop and hearing children from The Clinton School talk passionately about the need for growing and harvesting in this current climate makes me exceptionally proud. I am grateful to all staff, parents, pupils and the community for their exceptional hard work, especially Mrs Bolton who has worked tirelessly on this development,” Mrs Sharpe.

Join Bondleigh Barn Band!

he Chulmleigh and District Society is delighted to be sponsoring the opportunity for anyone who would enjoy the experience of playing in an orchestra, to do so by playing alongside the Bondleigh Barn Band. The band began in 2013 with six players and Richard Edwards, its musical director, meeting in a barn in Bondleigh. It now has over 40 players who meet once a fortnight to enjoy making music together. It has increasingly been invited to play in public and has raised over £13,000 for local causes and charities. Richard said “This is an opportunity for anyone who fancies the idea to come along and enjoy the fun of making music with other folk. In rehearsal the band will prepare music it has not seen before, and would welcome visitors to sit with them and play along. We cater for violin, viola, cello, double bass, oboe, flute, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, tenor saxophone, acoustic guitar, banjo and keyboard. If you play another instrument please get in touch and we shall endeavour to make provision for you”. To participate in this free event please contact Liz Wesson 01769 580005 or email liz.athome@live.com, giving your name, instrument, what sort of standard you are (however rusty, whatever age) and if you would like afternoon tea. Music will then be prepared for you accordingly. Saturday 14th March 2020 at Chulmleigh Pavilion, Leigh Road, Chulmleigh EX18 7JW. 3pm rehearsal, 4.30pm afternoon tea, 6-7pm concert.

All Kerbside Waste Collected in Devon is Recycled or Turned into Energy

ouncillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure Development & Waste, has announced that Devon no longer sends any rubbish from kerbside collections to landfill. Cllr Davis says that all residual waste now goes to energy recovery facilities, and is used to create heat and electricity. The news follows Devon maintaining its status as one of the top recycling counties in England, recycling 56% of household waste. The latest 2018/2019 draft figures show that the recycling rate has increased by 2% when compared to the previous year. Over the same period the total quantity of residual black bag waste collected across Devon has gone down by 4.4%, meaning that people are throwing less into general ‘non-recyclable’ waste. Torridge saw the biggest increase from 41.2% to 51.3%. This follows the introduction of a fortnightly residual waste collection from a weekly one and separate food waste and garden waste collection. The figures also show that the county’s Household Waste Recycling Centres recycled 75% of their waste. Councillor Andrea Davis, Cabinet member for Infrastructure Development & Waste at Devon County Council said: “I would like to thank the residents of Devon for their efforts in producing less waste and improving their recycling helping to conserve valuable resources. “Working in partnership with the district councils, we have seen a real change in how household waste is managed across Devon and this has been supported by the £1.1million disposal savings that the Devon County Council has shared with the district councils as a result of these changes – this is good for the planet and for the public purse. “I am pleased to also report that none of the residual waste collected by the district councils goes to landfill, it all goes to Energy Recovery Facilities and used to create heat and electricity. This means reduced carbon dioxide and methane emissions and therefore a reduced impact on climate change.”

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The Arts Society North Devon

ur next meeting will be held on 10th December 2019 at The Durrant House Hotel Northam. We will be holding our AGM at 1.30pm and this will be immediately followed by the lecture by John Ericson entitled ‘Children’s Book Illustrations – How They Influence Memories’. Many of us have childhood memories of the wonderful illustrations in the books we read or were read to us. Images of ‘Tigger’ or ‘Toad’ or ‘The Tiger who came to Tea’ will stay with us forever and be refreshed when we read to children or grandchildren. This lecture will explore how illustrations contribute to the development of understanding and how image and narrative create such powerful memories. John was formerly the Director of Studies at Bath University, with responsibility for the professional development of teachers. He has worked abroad as an Educational Consultant and has developed a particular interest in the role of pictures in learning. He also lectures in a diverse range of topics including Pub Signs and The Shakers of North America. We welcome visitors at a cost of £5 or why not join our friendly Society and enjoy all our lectures for the year. For further information please contact Pamela Selman, 01271 866661, selman. smile@ talktalk.net.

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Historic Roscoff - The Story of Dorothy Silburn

ny visit to Roscoff would be incomplete without a visit to its imposing church, the Église Notre Dame de Croas-Batz, built around 1522 and supporting an intricate spire. In the grounds of the church one finds a solitary tomb bearing marble slabs inscribed surprisingly, to the memory of an Englishwoman, Dorothy Silburn (1753 -1820). Why is she held in such high regard by the French? To answer this we have to look to the consequences of the French Revolution of 1789. It is common knowledge that the French rose up at that time, against their King Louis 16th and his wife Marie Antoinette and that they, and many of the nobility associated with their court, were executed by guillotine. Less well known is the fact that the catholic clergy were also persecuted during the revolution. Many bishops, priests and even nuns were executed and around 30,000 were exiled. A number in excess of 8,000 of them fled to England and it was in Bloomsbury, London where many of them found refuge in the house of the kindly Dorothy Silburn. She became hugely popular and was even nicknamed ‘mother’ by the growing number of clerics who passed through her household. These priests, according to one source, were responsible for paving the way for the demystification of ‘popery’, and the eventual repeal of the laws preventing Catholic emancipation. They were model citizens in Britain, led by Jean-François de la Marche, the bishop of St. Pol de Léon, a large town near to Roscoff. In later life Dorothy become so enamoured of the French that she decided to spend her final years living in Roscoff. She was well looked after here and was granted a pension of 100 livres a year for life by the new (restored) King Louis 18th of which, it is said, she spent the best part, on the poor people of Roscoff. Quiz Night - We held our annual quiz on Saturday 26th October at the Torrington Arms. We raised just over £300, which will go a long way to hosting our French visitors next August. A huge thank you to Roger, Sally, Stuart, Vicki and staff at the Torrington Arms for providing the venue and support in making this a very successful and fun event; also, a huge thank you to everyone who took part. We currently have 42 members. Age is no barrier, as we have members ranging from nine years and upwards; some speak French and some don’t. We welcome new members, so if you are interested in joining us, please contact: Antony Jefferies (Secretary) 01271 549454, or Nick Roberts (Chairman) 01805 625765.

Dog Training Classes at Taddiport Village Hall

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

torringtonwriters

orringtonwriters were pleased to welcome two new members to their writing circle in October and it was a delight to hear their contributions on the subject of ‘New Beginnings’. This topic proved evocative on many levels, with pieces written on several diverse subjects including immigrants setting out in small boats to reach the UK; a lady who in her retirement developed a hobby of cat burgling; and an eloquent description of encountering a crossroads in life and opting to make a new start. A poem on how the ring of a bell often denotes a new beginning was followed by a contribution from another member, who had also taken the subject of a bell, and developed it into a piece relating to the imagery remembered from his Welsh childhood. However the final piece was set in Spain, and related to an extraordinary bottle of red wine unearthed in a cellar which proved to be an elixir, having the power to rejuvenate a married couple. We await the second episode of this story with baited breath! The meeting was rounded off with a short period of free writing, with each member composing a limerick on Brexit. However I’m afraid I daren’t publish the resulting poems here! The last Tuesday in December falls on New Year’s Eve, so torringtonwriters will next meet on Tuesday 28th January at Castle Hill above the Library at 2.30pm, so if you would like to join us then please make a note of the date and bring along one of your short pieces of writing which has happy memories for you. Stef Easton

Rosemoor Winter Garden Highlights

on’t miss the Winter and Foliage Gardens which are enchanting at this time of year. These gardens are filled with a surprising mix of colour, fragrance, texture and structure. Key highlights include Daphne, Mahonia, Sarcococca, Hamamelis, dogwood and willow stems, silver birch, Acer and cherry tree bark. Check out our national holly collection and the ornamental grasses. Through January and into February early camellias and drifts of snowdrops are in flower. Your very own ‘Winter Garden’ As the nights draw in and the weather begins to chill, many of us gardeners look out at the garden and perhaps think that this is the end for another season. Admittedly, the summer perennials have done their thing and are in need of cutting back and the expected detritus and leaves blown in by the first storms is beginning to collect in the corners, but all is not necessarily lost. Colour, scent, foliage and structure in a winter’s garden can be incredibly uplifting and combining a few select plants in amongst some well-placed evergreens and architectural seed heads can give a remarkable effect. Here are some suggestions of plants to introduce into your garden areas to keep the colours and scents flowing through the coming months. Lonicera fragrantissima, sweetest Honeysuckle; small cream flowers through the winter pack a fragrance punch! Erica × darleyensis ‘J.W. Porter’ AGM. A Heather which is easy to grow and will tolerate most soils. Viburnum tinus. An evergreen shrub with pink tinged, white, fragrant flowers throughout the winter. Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’. Dogwood, to provide striking winter stem colours. Jasminum nudiflorum AGM. Winter Jasmine, can be trained up a fence or wall and provides a striking profusion of winter yellow flowers. There is a myriad of evergreens available on the market and a great place to start would be the RHS top 5 evergreens, all of which are well worth a try: Daphne × transatlantica [Eternal Fragrance] = ‘Blafra’ AGM. Euonymus fortunei ‘Silver Queen’ AGM. Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ AGM. Osmanthus × burkwoodii AGM. Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Irene Paterson’ AGM. The benefits of allowing seed heads to remain in the garden are many fold; from providing food and winter shelter for birds and insects, frost protection for emerging buds and to providing the aforementioned structure, height and interest. At Rosemoor we leave seedheads on for as long as possible especially in the Hot and Foliage Gardens. Richard Wilson Horticulturist RHS Garden Rosemoor Image ©RHS/Tim Sandall

Torrington Scouts, Cubs and Beavers

eavers have had fun with more experiments using bottles and pen lids, another messy but fun evening. Science continued as a theme when they all created a foaming monster and a show and tell evening followed with the Beavers bringing in and taking about their collections. On Guy Fawkes Night sparklers added some fun with straw men being made. After the preparations from the last Cub night, the international party was in full swing. Cubs turned up all in fancy dress and brought along food from their respective countries. Over the next three weeks they were separated into groups and cooking and science events took place. One evening they also turned their hands to model making and had discussions about life choices, diet, drinks, smoking and drugs. A reminder night of ‘back to basics’ was held, with ironing and cleaning and how to change a plug and a light bulb. Scouts, Cubs and Beavers attended the Remembrance Sunday Parade on 10th November. All who attended were extremely well behaved. The group is in need of someone who would like to become a leader for Cubs or Beavers, so if you are interested in any level of helping out, please contact Jordon on the email below. If you have a son or daughter who may be interested in joining Beavers aged 6-8, Cubs aged 8-10 or Scouts aged 10-14,or if you feel you could help out in anyway please contact Jordon on jordon.whitear@gmail.com.

1St Place Upper School Misguided

Fifteen Never cared for schooling But educated the expensive way Preferred cigarettes and cheap beers Hated all authority Not even much love for his lover But the drums and the bugles entrance him The marching glory calls Just sixteen Fails the test After school he dances with his girlfriend Always to the beat of the drums Hypnotised as he is, she wills him on A child in a man’s uniform, he receives a weapon Thinking of honour as a heroism Forever hearing the pounding of the drums Now eighteen Deployed to a country He cannot point to on a map Sandy roads strewn with poverty stricken children No more dreams of heroism A few months of patrolling, IED explodes Mismatched puzzle of men’s limbs, boots, feet remain No remnants of that child, but for another the beat starts up again He dies in an honourless place She’s eighteen No sense of patriotism left A medal doesn’t replace him An afterthought for those pointlessly massacred Out of her window She can see her parade The youth cheering, pounding the drum Honour and heroism Only now she knows

No level of respect can bring him back His soul resides on that track Among the blood and sand With other youthful dead Not men But children Every year they march Hailing the freshly slaughtered She often wonders why they are marching at all Some have no legs to march, others no life But the eternal beats march on In years’ time they will forget those who have fallen Already they have little idea Why they’re marching at all. Stan Pateman

1st Place Staff Truth

We stand on a precipice ready to fly, into an abyss or up in the sky, pilots are many, some friend and some foe, Bojo the captain, then Jezza, then Joe, Brexit our flight path, set East or set West? In which direction? Which one is the best? Opinions are varied, families now split, Which side of the fence should I choose to sit? Rhetoric now boring, please tell me no lies. I now need the truth before this plane flies. Mr Beam

1st Place Lower School The Untold Truth About War

Your country needs you they say they lure you in with the sweetest lies and yet only the bitterest of truths remain and that truth is, God has abandoned you. The minute you step out onto that battlefield, you’re a dead man walking. To hell with your country to hell with Kings and Queens Your family needs you you can’t help anyone if you’re dead. Once you write your name in that book it becomes a list of the dead. My heart beats faster everytime I think of you out on the front line fighting for your life sometimes it feels as if it could beat right out of my chest. The letters you send now sound like the posters on the walls, telling me only what you think I want to hear, not what I need to hear. It fuels my fear even more not being able to know what you’re going through out there. So do not tell me your country needs you when the people you love the most are left waiting, waiting for you to step off that bus, waiting and hoping for you to come home. And that’s the untold truth about war: nobody gets left untouched. everybody gets left with battlewounds, whether its from fighting out on the front line, or whether its from waiting for that person you love to come home. Caitlin Mitchell

It’s a poetry take-over this month, in honour of National Poetry Day! We celebrated, as always, with a hugely popular poetry competition – we had literally hundreds of entries. The theme this year was ‘truth’ and it inspired some truly outstanding writing! Thank you to Mrs Furness for organising and to all our wonderful poets. Here are the winner and runner up entries for each category:

2nd Place Staff 2nd Place Upper School The Truth Will Be Known The truth will be known Here rests truth Suffocating under a colossal mountain of lies, Each gust of wind sweeping away some lies, Bringing truth to the surface Soon, he will be uncovered, Like an innocent child, abandoned Alone. Everyone gathering to see the long unseen, unknown truth Alone together. A deafening silence. Here lies truth. Once safe and comfortable Under a blanket of lies. Now, unsurprising known By all. Here lies truth No longer abiding in an unscathed home Under lies Now uncovered, Known by all.

Adrianna Jankowska

Shared Secret

Small, scrubby tree standing proud on the hillside. Modern Day Myth. Shimmering, siren filled, celebrity driven concrete jungle sprawling, it eats into the hillside and laps at the shores of the distant ocean. The patriotic flag flutters, playing its part in the pilgrimage. Sandy, shaley soil, slippery underfoot. Endless clear blue sky. Ever reliable, constant –in contrast with the city below. City of angels – city of dreams – City of Hope? Where everything is possible… Snatches of animated, Angelino chatter shatters the silent morning air. Punctuated with exclamation. Enthusiastic, driven, fading like the jaded green scrub, worn like a pair of old jeans. I climb, hiking upwards, the temperature rising as I ascend. Small, scrubby tree standing just in front of me. Carefully graffittied, artificially aged, hipsteresque trunk beneath; alien yet deeply rooted. Part of the fabric of the people. Full of the ‘truths’ they hold. Confidant, entrusted memory keeper, old friend. Shared secret. Ms Mounce

2nd place Lower School Lies Lies creep up and attack from behind They are deceptive creatures Lurking in the dark Then they jump out and bite and scratch But lies don’t start this way They start as little white lies Then they grow and grow And become snarling beasts Lies are destructive They break many things Hearts, relationships, trust Lies are fast They spread ten times faster Than what is true Lies are easy “I love the gift”, “I loved the meal” they say But how quickly lies can change to “I’m not guilty” or “It was him.” Lies cause grief and pain and loss. We all know this. So why do lies escape? Hannah Bowen

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The Crier Prize Crossword

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Mollie Banfield is a qualified Level 5 sports therapist, and Biomechanics coach. This includes sports massage, deep tissue and remedial massage, trigger point therapy, assessing injuries, rehabilitation and reconditioning, kinesiology taping, and mobilisations. Mollie can also assess your movement to optimise performance and prevent injury. Massage can be used as a great tool for coping with, and at times overcoming, many conditions including reducing stress and anxiety. The voucher can be used for any of the following: Sports Massage: sports massage will improve performance, help prevent injuries and reduce recovery time. Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles Remedial massage: Remedial massage also has benefits for many medical conditions. When used alongside other medical procedures patients can feel a sense of alleviation from pain and the soft tissue symptoms associated with the conditions. Mollie Banfield Sports Therapy 07854 805 336

From Your District Councillors...

uring October the External Overview and Scrutiny committee had a couple of joint meetings with North Devon Council. In mid-October we had a presentation on the NHS Long Term plan by John Finn, Associate Director of Commissioning, NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group. There were a number of recommendations put forward by the committee including: -That there be no reduction in any of the current services from North Devon Hospital and the care it provides. -That there should be a recruitment drive for staff at North Devon Hospital and great confidence in its future be promoted. -That Torridge District Council fully support the reinstatement of nursing bursaries. At the end of October we had a North Devon and Torridge Community Safety Update and received a presentation from Superintendent Toby Davies, Devon & Cornwall Police. Again there were a number of recommendations put forward from the committee including: - That the CSP address, as a priority, the issues of suicide, mental health and selfharm in the northern Devon area. -That the NFU be invited to be a partner in the CSP. - That the possibility of establishing a ‘Place of Safety’ in northern Devon be investigated (currently the closest is in Exeter). The Community and Resources Committee primarily discussed the proposed new Northam Burrows Centre and had an update on progress. It will be a new facility to replace the old building on the Burrows and will be displaying information about the natural habitat, the geology and the history of the area, as well as also being an exhibition space for community events. It is expected to produce 32 jobs directly, with 90 jobs as

Fleur’s Best Trees Ilex aquifolium (Holly)

nother wonderful tree for your garden, which comes in many forms and species, the holly needs little introduction. We all recognise those shiny, leathery dark green leaves which are painfully prickly and, of course, the lovely bright red berries; a well laden tree in winter is a wonderful sight to behold. Being evergreen, the holly provides interest all year and the berries attract migratory birds during the winter months. Holly is a tough, very hardy tree tolerant of most sites and soils, but preferring moisture retentive, fairly rich conditions and sun or light shade. Most hollies need little or no pruning except perhaps to retain a specific shape/size. One aspect to remember is that holly trees are either male or female (dioecious) and so you will need one of each in order to get berries. RHS Rosemoor holds a national collection of hollies, and some species will certainly surprise you! It is well worth looking round to find one that you prefer – many have variegated foliage (such variegation needs more sunshine to maintain), some have leaves with a bluish tinge and some have yellow berries. Some good cultivars are: ‘Golden Milkboy’ (male) with spiny, gold-centred leaves and purple stems, ‘Golden Queen’ is also male with gold-edged leaves and cream-streaked stems. Now it gets even more confusing, because ‘Golden King’ is female with gold-edged leaves and fewer spines and ‘Silver Queen’ has silveredged leaves, but is male! ‘Silver Milkmaid’ is female with spiny, silver or white-centred leaves, whilst ‘Argentea Marginata’ is also female with spiny, purple/pink young leaves which become cream-streaked and white-edged when mature. Both of these forms have lovely bright scarlet berries. Fleur a knock-on effect. October’s full council meeting had a number of motions on the agenda and Cllr Cottle-Hunkin put forward a motion that was previously passed by GTTC. The motion was to support renewables and energy efficiency of new-builds, to lobby government and also look at possible solar energy on Torrington Pool. We were really pleased that the majority of councillors supported the motion and it will now be looked at by the Climate Change working group in detail. We also supported a motion to join other councils in funding a judicial review of the restructuring of the Fire and Rescue Service. We recently had an extraordinary full council meeting relating to the Kivells Court Case. In response to this meeting, the leader has said on behalf of the council, “There is a strong feeling that,

as a new Council, we repair our working relationship with Kivells and thus support our economy going forward.” At the beginning of November Cllr Cottle-Hunkin attended a two day Leadership course at Warwick University to support her new role as Lead Member for Community, Leisure and Culture. It was an intense course funded by Sport England with a number of highly experienced speakers. It has given her more knowledge of the role and has put her in contact with people who can help and advise the council in terms of providing sport and physical activity. She would like to thank her Mum for going with her and looking after Theo during the day! Cllr Bright is also enrolled on a course there at the end of the month, being run by the Local Government Association for young councillors. We would both like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas. Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin cllr.cottlehunkin@torridge.gov.uk, 07495 367 801 Cllr Chris Bright councillor.bright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909

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Phone Alistair McMillan

01805 804626 or 07977 810 088 Bluecoat Needs You!

o you have time or skills brambles, reeds and weeds – they need to help rebuild the school rebuilding. Some path paving slabs have vegetable garden? been uncovered, others need re-siting At Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E to be safe. Some beds are now clear to Primary School we are keen to make access but there is a long way to go. All the most of our outdoor space to further of this, and the wet weather, have made enhance our curriculum provision. Since real work in the garden with the children September, we have been looking at difficult. So ideally, we need a polytunnel how to integrate growing and use of to begin working outdoors with the the outdoors into the life of the school, children whilst the weather is poor, cold and children have been attending a frames to bring on small plants and the weekly Gardening Club and Gardening garden beds to be up and running. Enrichment Afternoon. This is where you can help. From So far, the children have planted January, we hope to bring together carrots and beetroot, potted up a group of people to help the school strawberry runners, made a leaf mould to fundraise, re-build and help the bin and collected leaves for it, learnt children to begin a real school garden. how to weed and Enthusiasm, “...and for this we need to bring back practical and have planted seeds into use the school’s raised garden organisational (beans, acorns, beds. They are currently rotting and skills, community conkers and other falling apart, and were overgrown spirit, hard work fruit seeds). We and full of brambles, reeds and have learnt about and materials weeds – they need rebuilding.” the life cycle of are all we need. plants and trees, the benefits of compost, We hope that the children will not only made a wormery and learnt how worms learn about gardening, but also have aid the soil. We have identified leaves, the chance to take the vegetables made our own dials to match leaves and home. Any surplus will go on the trees, made hyacinth bulb planters and Food Share tables and eventually we autumn leaf artificial tea light holders. may even explore the possibilities of We have created two gardens for the selling produce, seeds and plants via playground and a spring bulb lasagne the school, developing the children’s (layered spring bulbs) and flower-filled enterprise skills. planters in the ‘Sanctuary Garden’ at the We believe many hands make light centre of the school. work so please watch this space. We However, the children would really will write again in January inviting you to like to plant seeds and grow vegetables, our Big Soup Event where you will also and for this we need to bring back into be able to see what we have achieved so use the school’s raised garden beds. far and how you can get involved. This They are currently rotting and falling event will be on Tuesday February 4th 2020 – 3.30pm at Bluecoat School Café. apart, and were overgrown and full of

Light Up a Life Appeal

ight Up a Life this Christmas and support Children’s Hospice South West and North Devon Hospice. You can light a candle in memory of your loved ones on Sunday, 15th December at Torrington Methodist Church, 6.30pm. These services are open to everyone, not just those who have been supported by either hospice. If you cannot attend a Light Up a Life service but would still like to be part of this season of remembrance, you can take part in the appeal and add your loved one’s name to a special book of remembrance by making a donation to the hospices at www.lual.co.uk.

Friends of Burton Art Gallery, Bideford

Annual Open Christmas Exhibition 16th to 22nd December 2019 he Friends of Burton Art Gallery and Museum will be holding their Annual Open Christmas Exhibition from 16th November to 22nd December. Do come along and see the exhibits, at the Burton @ Bideford. Local artists are invited to submit their work for exhibition and sale. Hand In Days are at the Burton on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th November, 11 am to 4 pm. Terms and Conditions of Entry and Entry Forms are available in person from the Burton, or via email from margaretcookson@hotmail.com . Submission fees are £4 per item for Friends of the Burton, and £7 per item for non members, and all proceeds are used for the benefit of the Burton Art Gallery.

Higher Cherubeer Snowdrops

et the year’s garden visiting off to a great start and venture out to see all the snowdrops at Higher Cherubeer Garden, near Dolton, which is opening in February for the charities supported by the National Garden Scheme (NGS). Devon galanthophile, Jo Hynes, has over 400 snowdrop varieties in her one and three quarter acre garden at Higher Cherubeer, two miles east of Dolton, Devon, EX19 8PP which is open on Fridays 7th and 14th and Saturday 22nd February from 2-5pm. The woodland paths are lined with named snowdrops, hellebores and winter flowering shrubs. As well as many other spring flowering plants, Jo has a National Collection of cyclamen species. In poor weather the alpine house provides refuge and is used to display plants in season. There will be refreshments and plants on sale including snowdrops. Admission is £5 and children are free. At NGS open gardens the money taken at the gate goes to Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Hospices UK, Carers Trust and other nursing and caring charities which are supported by the NGS. The money taken for the teas and plants also goes to the charities unless stated otherwise. For more information and to see all the gardens opening in 2020 please visit www.ngs.org.uk.

Local Schools Committee Member Vacancy

The Clinton Church of England School & Dolton Church of England School Voluntary position, to start as soon as possible. he role of a Local Schools Committee Member is a serious yet extremely rewarding duty. Our Local Schools Committee plays an essential role in supporting the school. Local Schools Committee Members come from all walks of life, and are able to bring a mixture of skills and experience to the role. It is an opportunity to use your existing professional and intellectual skills in a new setting, many people do not realise that these skills can add huge value to the school. Volunteering as a Committee Member is a great way to make a valuable contribution to your local school and be inspired by the impact of education. If you are interested and would like to discuss this further or ask for an application form please email: clerk@ alumnismat.org.

Torrington Music, Arts & Heritage Festival

he Festival Committee is pleased to announce that the festival was successful in achieving a financial surplus, with many enjoyable events. However the audiences were disappointing, especially in the square in the later afternoon during the singing acts. At a recent meeting it was decided to review the idea of the festival. We want your feedback, perhaps one-off events throughout the year would be a way forward. Next year’s festival would only be two weeks after the Cavaliers’ Mayflower Celebration. Summer dates clash with other festivals. Please contact me Cathrine Simmons with your ideas and thoughts at cathrinesimmons@hotmail.co.uk.

Calling All Bridge Players

am struggling to find a local Bridge club, can you help? Since moving to the area two months ago my only disappointment is that I cannot find anywhere to play Bridge without driving to Barnstaple. I have seen an old reference to Great Torrington Bridge Club but I cannot find anything current, does it still exist? Where can I find it? If there are no active local clubs would anyone be interested in helping me start one? Please let me know if you would be interested in playing and/ or organising one. John Burrill johnandkay@talktalk.net, 01805 622755.

TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB Families Welcome

Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY Large function room for parties/weddings Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month Plus other entertainment 38

Contact Sharon 01805 622543

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