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.
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.
Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £28 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £54 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please.
Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk
Proof reading: Sam Williams
Town Distribution: Esther Williams
Rural Distribution: Torrington Library & the community
Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton
Dolton & Dowland Horticultural Show
Saturday 9th August 2025
Please come along to the Village Hall in Dolton & support our annual event Attractions for the family Entry: £1 Adults, Children Free
We look forward to seeing you there!
Read The Crier Online
If you don’t normally get the Crier delivered, you can now view the latest issue and back issues online, including all adverts, which can be clicked on to visit their websites.
Would you like the Crier delivered in your village?
Volunteers collect Criers from the Library each issue and drop them off in various villages. If your community doesn’t receive the Crier but would like to, and you can help, please contact Becky on 07443 491972, torrington.crier@gmail. com, or call in to Torrington Library. Disclaimer: The Crier does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, legality or reliability of any information, product or service represented within our publication or on our web site. The information provided is for informational, educational or entertainment purposes only.
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North Devon Show 2025
Tickets have gone on sale for this year's North Devon Show, which takes place at its usual Umberleigh venue on Wednesday 6th August
The show committee is delighted that so many supported last year’s event, on the back of the freak weather which caused such disruption in 2023. Show secretary Theresa Soanes said, “The North Devon Show is such a highlight in the calendar for local people and continues to be very well supported by the public. It was wonderful to see so many return last year. This year we are offering increased discounts on early bird tickets which are now available.”
The North Devon Show celebrates a myriad of local talent and is supported by participants and visitors from all over the United Kingdom. It’s a hub of activity for farmers, livestock owners, equestrians and local businesses, as well as craft, food and drinks suppliers. Featuring many animals, it has also developed a reputation for putting on much-loved performances in the show rings, together with added entertainment for families and visitors.
Theresa Soanes commented further, “This year will see the return of popular showman Jonathan Marshall, plus some amazing quad bike stunts from ATV Events.
The ever-popular giant tortoises will be there too, as well as the much-loved ‘meet and greet the animals.' The dog shows are always really well attended and with fairground rides and a live music stage throughout the day, there is plenty to enjoy. There are far too many things going on to mention them all here, but there really is something for everyone to enjoy on show day.”
Last year Theresa Soanes said she put out a special request for the sun to shine, and it shone all day. So she’s asking for more of the same this year! For further details about the show, and information on how to get reduced priced early-bird tickets, see NorthDevonShow.com.
Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator
Fully qualified tradesman • Interior and exterior painting • Paper hanging • No job too big or too small
Could You Help Organise Crier Deliveries?
We are looking for someone to take over delivering boxes of Criers to our town deliverers, and also to sort the Criers for collection by those who deliver out in the community too. We take delivery of Criers on a Tuesday towards the end of every month except for August and December. They are already bundled and labelled, and will be delivered to your home, so it's a case of dropping them off with each deliverer on the day, we pay expenses for this role. For the community copies we need someone to be at Torrington Library and bundle copies ready for collection. Please contact Esther on 07912 693 858 or email torringtoncrieradverts@ gmail.com if you're interested.
TORRINGTON ARMS
Open daily from 11am
Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm Takeaways Available Function Room available for all occasions
For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook
Torrington & District Community News & Events
Great Torrington Town Hall News
In the July edition of the Crier, we wanted to bring you some updates on various activities taking place at the Town Hall.
This month’s highlights include the wonderful activities happening in our community space. These events reflect the vibrant spirit of our town, catering to a diverse range of age groups and interests: whether it's building selfconfidence through martial arts, finding comfort and companionship over knitting and coffee, or improving your health and wellbeing, the Town Hall continues to serve as a hub of connection for so many people.
Master Chris Faulkner – Professional Martial Arts Instructor
It’s hard to believe Chris has been doing his classes with us since 21st January this year!
We love seeing the young children (youngest is just 3) coming up to the main hall, with plenty of space for them to use for their activities and we asked Chris for some information about the classes. He has years of experience working with young children and adults, teaching them valuable skills in a supportive environment. Chris commented, “The classes help develop confidence, self-esteem and self-discipline. I design each session to make learning fun! When the children first join, they get a white belt with their uniform then this is followed by a purple/ white stripe for the Mighty Matts age 3–6-year-olds, and purple for the Juniors and Adults after showing techniques. This is followed 4/5 weeks later by a Commitment belt which is white/purple stripe, to show they are committed to their training. The gradings will be done at classes on 24th June, which is very special for the parents and children”. If you want more information Chris offers a free trial session, so go to www. mattfiddes.com and just book direct with him. Classes are every Tuesday evening: 3-6 years at 5pm and 7 years plus at 6pm.
Neil and Kerry - Swing Dance Classes
We asked them to tell us us more about the very popular classes they run at the hall and what attracts them to swing dance.
“We dance because sitting still to some of the most amazing music ever produced is just not possible, and because it helps us engage with each other without other distraction, and finally, because it gives our brains and bodies a gentle workout.
Swing dance is a mix of flowing styles, some Lindy Hop, Jive and a little Charleston thrown in for good measure, danced to Big Band sounds, American Song Book classics and some modern retro greats.
Our weekly dance night at the Town Hall on Thursday at 7:30-9pm costs just £5, and gives you time to practice your moves, meet new friends, get some expert help to learn more in a relaxed setting and enjoy the swing/jive experience.
Want to join us? – learn and improve your dancing to the sound of big band swing, crooners and modern retro classics in our 6-week programme of partnered dance. FREE TASTER SESSION in week one then just £6 each week. Starting Thursday 4th September. It’s a great opportunity to practice your moves, meet new friends and get our expert help to learn in a relaxed setting at the Town Hall.
Beginners arrive at 6.50pm and are ready to dance from 7-7.45pm, with a chance to put your moves into action with some free-style time at the end. Stay until 8pm then learn the Shim Sham stroll each week with the Improvers. Need a partner? Don’t worry, just drop us a line at stepintoswingtime@outlook.com and we can add you to a waiting list to match you with a dance partner. Follow us on Facebook @ stepswingtime to keep up to date with dance opportunities here and at other locations and, lastly, come along to the RHS Rosemoor Vintage Weekend and join us at the dance marquee on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July.”
Join the Knit and Natter groupevery Wednesday morning - a warm welcome awaits!
What makes Knit and Natter Special?
It’s not just about knitting, but the focus is on being part of a warm environment where you can relax and enjoy each other’s company. If you are feeling a bit lonely and want to step out of the house and share a cup of tea or coffee and good company, then Knit and Natter will be something to look forward to each week. They also have some fantastic cake!
Don’t hesitate just pop in – make your Wednesdays special! The group is waiting to welcome you from 10 to 12 noon.
Mayor Making Ceremony Held at the Town Hall
We were honoured to host the Mayor Making Ceremony on 21st May 2025: our beautiful Grade 2 Building is a wonderful setting and highlights the venue’s significance for civic events. The tradition dates back centuries and is the time when, during a formal ceremony, a new Mayor is appointed or the current Mayor continues in office for another year, voted in by the Gt Torrington Town Councillors. The Trustees would like to offer their congratulations to Cllr P Cloke who is continuing as Mayor for a further term, and Cllr Dave Parish who is the Deputy Mayor and a Trustee of the Town Hall. Help shape our future at the Town Hall & become a volunteer
Whether it’s lending a hand to help events run smoothly, offering administrative or IT support, decorating and DIY - maybe you have a special skill which would be really useful to us! If you can offer a few hours a month to help keep the Town Hall a vibrant venue, we would love to hear from you. If you would like to hire the Hall for a wedding, special party, wake or a community event, please contact us on admin@greattorringtontown-hall.org, or call Helen or Sandra on 07944 639 739/01805 623298.
Torrington Library News
A new Summer Book Quest - join us on a deep-sea adventure!
It’s here!
We are thrilled to announce the launch of Libraries Unlimited’s very own reading challenge, based on our popular reading scheme
The Secret Book Quest!
Launch day
Saturday 12th July 10am-1pm. Visit Torrington Library for your free challenge pack and join in the fun!
Dive into a deepsea adventure with characters Pip, Zena and Libro this summer. *Read what you love, *complete fun sea-themed activitie, *collect stickers along the way, *finish the quest to earn a certificate, keyring and finisher sticker, *enter our prize draw for fabulous prizes. All for FREE!
On our launch day children can make personalised ninja starfish and jiggling jellyfish to use on our underwater safari trail, have a temporary sea creature tattoo and of course collect their starter packs. Come along dressed as a pirate or sea creature!
If you miss the launch day you can still come along any time between 12th July and 6th September to take part.
Summer Events
This summer’s packed programme of children’s events includes:
• Sea Science Adventures – make fluffy seaweed slime, deep sea potions and a magnetic fishing game with Devon Science.
• Really Wild Learning - learn all about some amazing amphibians and reptiles in this animal encounter
• Toy Figures Photo Fun Adventure with Mandi McCormack Photographer–families can make their own toy adventure photo stories.
• Clay Sea Creatures - make your own starfish, turtle, shark, and fish.
•Underwater Print Workshop –explore printmaking techniques to create an ocean scene for the library and to take home.
• Foil Rainbow Fish – make a colourful Rainbow fish.
• Make a Treasure Map – where will you bury the treasure?!
Some of these events will require booking, please contact the library for more information.
Bounce & Rhyme, Stay & PlaySummer Sessions
Tuesdays 10.30-11.45am. Our weekly Bounce & Rhyme sessions will continue right through the summer this year. Just drop-in.
Craft Club
Alternate Thursdays 1.30-3.30pm. This month, Craft Club for adults meets on
3rd, 17th and 31st July. £1 per person to include hot drinks and biscuits. Bring your own craft to share over a cuppa and a chat.
NHS App Support
Thursday 31st July 10am2pm. Learn how to use the NHS app on your smartphone or tablet to:
• Book medical appointments
• Order repeat prescriptions
• View your medical records
Shelley Hartley, Primary Care Project Manager at NHS Devon will be here to show you how. Come along, no need to book.
Our regular activities continue over the summer, please contact us for details. Email: torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk, telephone 01805 622107, or just pop in. Follow us on Facebook. We post regularly so it’s a good place to look and share with your friends. @TorringtonLibraryDevon.
Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092 Librariesunlimited.org. uk.
Torridge Walk & Talk
A nice way to get fit, make friends and enjoy yourself! Every Tuesday and Wednesday, with a variety of walks for all levels. Just turn up and join in for free. Full details on our website torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk or call Steve 01237 421528.
As part of a project directed by the Great Torrington Regeneration Board, the town website has been revamped and renamed. It is now www.greattorrington.uk and has a fresh look and feel. All of the existing information on the website has been retained and reorganised to allow for improved navigation. You can still add listings and events – FOR FREE – for your Great Torrington and locality businesses, shops, services, clubs, groups and sports groups.
Great Torrington Calendar
So far, in the three editions we have published, the town calendar has been successful in the aim of promoting the area in which we live. It has raised enough money to be self-sufficient, and there is a small amount of money in reserve to be distributed to good causes around the town.
It is now time for someone else to take this on if they wish. There is a bit of organisation involved to collect photos from contributors, to select photos for each month, get them printed, and out to shops to sell - it will soon be time to start that process again.
Please express your interest by emailing gt.futuregroup@gmail.com and we will happily go through it in a bit more detail, if not then the entire pot will be distributed to good causes, once the project is closed down. If someone does step forward to run with next year’s calendar, we will keep enough funding back to cover printing costs for the next round.
Talking about Death Doesn’t Make it Happen!
Death Cafes are a global movement offering space and time for conversations about death, dying, grief, and, inevitably, also life and living.
In a society that often uses euphemisms and shies away from talking about death, a death cafe offers people the opportunity to share experiences, ask questions, listen to others and say what we may not feel comfortable saying elsewhere. There is no agenda, and there are no set topics, conversation flows and themes are developed from what people bring to the discussion.
So do come and join us in an open conversation about all things death related at the Great Torrington Death Café.
Recently we've discussed our hopes for a 'good death' and what that means to each of us and how lovely it is to talk about a loved one who died several years ago.
Wednesday 30th June 2-4pm at the Bickford Centre on South Street, Torrington.
Tarka Valley Railway News
We are now into June and, as I write, it is just less than two weeks until Midsummer Day. The year is certainly flying by, and our working Thursdays have been helped by the warmest and driest spring on record. We have already had two running days this year; the Easter Eggspress on 19th April where our visitors met the Easter Bunny and, just three weeks after on 3rd May, we ran our May Fair Special. We were joined by the May Queen and her Entourage, who enjoyed their ride on our BR Class 143. There were a number of stalls and various other attractions on both days for visitors, and our shop was also open. I am pleased to say that they were two very successful events. We are now preparing for a special event on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th July where we will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the opening of the North Devon and Cornwall Junction Light Railway in 1925, and 200 years since the opening of the first passenger railway in 1825. It promises to be an exciting weekend. Further information will be available on our social media sites. Weekly progress reports are always available on our Facebook page, showing how our various projects are moving forward. Please also visit our website for much more information www. tarkavalleyrailway.org
Robert Martin Tarka Valley Railway
Great Torrington Commons
As we head into summer, the Commons seem to look more spectacular by the day. The May blossom and the bluebells have been wonderful this year, and next to come in their full glory are the wildflower meadows; Reed’s Field and the field variously known as Quiet Possession, Clarke’s Meadow or the Dump Field. Whatever you choose to call it, be sure to take a walk over it in July to see the marsh orchids and other beautiful flowers.
his chest on many occasions this year trying to clear them away. You might see the water level go down later this year to get it cleared, and some of the overhanging branches will be lopped off to create more sunlight. This will encourage more wildlife to thrive going forward.
We had a great response to our article last month about sponsoring a bench. We still have a lot of benches available to become memorials for loved ones. Please get in touch with Carolyn by email on carolyn.larwood@torringtoncommons. org, further details can be found on our website.
Butterflies that you might see this month on the Commons include speckled wood, orange tip, small white, brimstone, peacock, small tortoiseshell and pearl bordered fritillary butterflies. The last of these is one of the UK’s most threatened butterfly species, so we are always very happy to see it, and we tailor our conservation work on the slopes underneath the golf course to maximise its chances. We’ve also had plenty of reports that our reptile populations are thriving, and as always remind people to be careful of letting their dogs nose around on south-facing slopes in case they meet an adder! A less welcome creature that is also about now is the tick. Check your dogs, especially around the muzzle and ears after they have been in the long grass. These can carry Lyme’s disease so any that attach to your dogs (or yourselves) should be removed as quickly as possible. Whiskers pet shop sells the special tools.
Big Al, our Head Ranger, and his team will be out every day on the Commons doing their great work of looking after the 365 acres of land. They have been repairing picnic benches, strimming the 20 miles of pathways and countless other jobs. One of their projects this year will be to renovate the pond on Common Lake stream. It is full of rotten leaves from previous years. Al has been up to
On 12th July we will be hosting the annual K9 Focus Dog Show on the Commons. This is a very popular event, and you don’t need a dog to come along and attend, there will be lots of things to do on the day. We will be doing our famous ‘Water, Wine or maybe Cider’ lucky dip stall. There will also be some extra mystery prizes to win.
The Dartington bookshop is doing very, very well. Please go along and have a look at the assortment on offer. There is a table with celebrity cookbooks all priced at £3 each most of them are like new. There are two other tables with cooking and gardening books, these are priced mainly at £2 each. The paperbacks on the wall of books are all £1 each and there are more than 1,500 of them.
Please contact me Andrew Giles on 07956 366 390 or by email chair@ torringtoncommos.org to donate more items arrange a different drop off address.
The car boot sales continue until the end of September. Sellers can arrive between 7am and 8am and buyers can come from 8am. We get lots of sellers each Sunday, but we can provide space for even more. It’s a great opportunity to sell your old stuff. Remember that there are public toilets, free car parking, a great children’s playground, miles of countryside to walk, the refreshments
Open for takeaway & eat-in
Monday 5-9pm
Tuesday to Saturday 12-2pm, 5-9pm
Open on Bank
Holidays
NEW MENU AVAILABLE!
Phone orders welcome!
Torrington Active Travel
wagon and, from 11am, Hockings Ice Cream. On our stall we sell DVDs, books, CDs, maps, cassettes and jigsaws. If you have any of these please contact me Andrew Giles on 07956 366 390 or by email chair@ torringtoncommos.org to donate them. Or you can bring them along on the day. The Torrington Commons 365 Supporters group continues to grow, with more members signing up each week. We are into our fifth year since the project started, and we raise around £4,500 per year. With Gift Aid this increases to nearly £6,000. Please, consider applying to be a Commons 365 Supporter if you can, the funds will be used to continue our goal of maintaining, improving, and protecting the Commons. As a Commons supporter you are also able to be a town supporter by using your membership card to get a discount or other benefit when you shop at the participating businesses. The 365 Supporters just pay a £2 per month or a £24 annual donation which can be increased with Gift Aid by 25% if you are a taxpayer. You can let us know at the application stage if this applies to you.
Joining the 365 Supporters group is simple:
Option 1. Visit the website www. torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page where you can apply online. Here you have the option of paying by PayPal or standing order annually or monthly. You can also print an application form to post in with a cheque.
Option 2. You can email chair@ torringtoncommons.org, phone or text me on 07956 366 390 and I will get an application form to you. You can also collect an application form from the Post Office. Some of the shops in town also have application forms. Andrew Giles Chair, Great Torrington Commons Conservators
Our column in last month’s issue, proposing a cycle path to the Tarka Trail from Torrington, has met with considerable enthusiasm - but not only from cyclists and would-be cyclists. The idea of a ‘shared path’ is a path for all – ramblers, cyclists, mobility scooters, dog walkers – in fact most forms of self-propelled travel. The Tarka Trail is a good example of shared use, where with consideration and respect for others, different modes of travel can happily co-exist. The Sustrans signs, which you see on the Tarka Trail, and which are used throughout the National Cycle Network, provide simple guidance for harmonious enjoyment of shared paths.
The idea of a Tarka Trail to Torrington active travel path is gathering momentum, but we need to be patient as implementation requires co-operation between a number of local agencies and organisations.
But once a route is agreed upon, how would it be created and maintained? Compared to the amounts spent on highway construction and ‘improvements’, the costs are a drop in the ocean, especially where upgrading of an existing path is involved. Small scale drainage works, and a compacted stone or scalping treatment are often all that is required to provide an all-season surface for both boots and wheels. Tarmac is neither necessary nor appropriate in a natural setting.
Elsewhere in North Devon there are major plans to improve active travel connectivity through the setting up of a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure
Plan (LCWIP). Initiated by the Northern Devon Cycling Campaign, town councils in Barnstaple, Bideford and Northam contributed to the creation of a plan which has the potential to offer healthier travel options for short urban journeys and significantly reduce traffic congestion. Thus far little has yet been achieved, as active travel infrastructure has a low priority among county highway decision makers, though maybe under the new regime at County Hall this might change! Torrington was omitted from the LCWIP as it was considered too removed from the North Devon ‘conurbation’, a real disservice to a growing town in need of active travel opportunities.
But that may be no bad thing, as some of the most significant advances in active travel provision have been achieved through a bottom-up, communityled approach rather than struggling with the inertia and complexities of local government bureaucracies. The Strawberry Line path in Somerset (www. thestrawberryline.org.uk/) provides a good model for what can be achieved by volunteers and community involvement.
Torrington has a proud tradition of the community acting autonomously and collectively, deciding it’s priorities and using volunteer effort and local funding sources to improve our lives.
Torrington Active Travel now have a Facebook group which is already providing a lively channel for discussions around potential routes, or we can be contacted by email via: davidjob49@ icloud.com.
David Job
Taffs Fish & Chips shop providing quality fish & chips since 1958. Thank you for your continued support.
YOUR LOCAL GYM
From Your County Councillor…
IGarden & Landscape
All garden & landscape work undertaken, large & small, by experienced & qualified landscaper & designer, plus LOGS FOR SALE
Tel: 07971533 235
Come & enjoy the magic of Zumba!
Dance , exercise & most of all have fun! It’s more than a workout!
You will leave feeling happy & energised. It is for all ages & fitness levels, you don’t need to be able to dance...
First Class Free - no tie in Thursday 6.15pm-7.15pm
Contact Wendy to book your free class t: 07787 607 322 e: wendy.cox@btinternet.com Scout Hall , Gas Lane Torrington EX38 7BE
t’s been an extremely busy few weeks since being elected as your County Councillor, especially with the added responsibility of being Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs! This appears to have an extremely wide remit... A huge amount of work involved but I am hoping it will give me the opportunity to have a really positive impact on the council and it will allow me to have a much stronger voice for our communities up here in Torridge and North Devon, which as we know, are extremely rural and isolated and are so often forgotten about in favour of urban areas such as Exeter and the Southern half of Devon.
I attended the Devon County Show this year and was pleased to speak on BBC Radio Devon, alongside our new leader Cllr Brazil, about rural isolation here in Devon, including the lack of public transport and poor access to services as well as the isolation experienced by farmers and the farming community.
At our first full council meeting and AGM, as well as voting for our leaders and chairs, we also voted to install ‘swift boxes’ to some of DCC’s buildings, a small decision to make and a quick and easy way to protect this declining species, and we will be lobbying central government to require all new-builds to install ‘swift bricks’ as standard.
At our first cabinet meeting we heard about plans to improve support for local foster carers and agreed to bring allowances in line with national levels, reduce council tax charges for registered foster carers in line with neighbouring authorities and we also introduced an equipment fund to provide carers with equipment such as new mattresses, buggies and car seats. We hope this will show how much we value our foster
carers and the important job they do and help to increase retention rates across Devon.
I have had lots of informal meetings too, including some training, and briefings on a wide range of issues affecting the county, from broadband to childcare provision. Luckily most of these meetings can take place online so I haven’t had to travel to Exeter too much! You will be pleased to hear I also spent a day travelling throughout Torrington Rural in the Highways van, with our Neighbourhood Highways Officer. We were looking at the state of our roads, and I was learning about different methods and processes and finding out about what has been prioritised for future work. As well as this, it was the opportunity for me to highlight the many roads and areas that have been raised with me by residents in the past few months. We will be heading out again soon as we were unable to look at everything in one day!
I attended the public meeting in the pannier market from Torrington Regeneration Board to find out what has been happening and some of their planned projects. They have created a new website for the town, building on the original OneGreatTorrington website that was set up five years ago. This website has new branding and will be updated regularly to show all the local events taking place etc. I was particularly interested to find out about the Tarka the Otter Trail initiative, which will involve several sculptures across Great Torrington and the Commons, and a dedicated storybook linking to the trail. The regeneration board is looking for people to join them, so if you would like to join or have any ideas, please email great-torrington@torridge.gov.uk. As your county councillor I now have £8000 available through the locality budget. Very exciting! This can be used for projects that will benefit the local community. Please get in touch with me first if you are interested in applying. The
application form is very simple and can be found on the Devon County website.
I was really pleased to be invited to the Friends of Great Torrington Library’s AGM and to hear from their guest speaker Alex Kittow, Chief Executive of Libraries Unlimited. I heard about the numerous craft events, message in a bottle, bounce and rhyme, walk and talk, plans for a repair café, and being the only place to print in Great Torrington. The friends have raised £1500 from book sales and do such a fab job volunteering at the library. Summer ‘25 has a new reading scheme with an underwater adventure theme, launching 12th July! The importance of the summer reading challenge was really emphasised, and I learned that children drop two reading levels at school if they don’t read over the summer holidays. There was a reminder too that libraries are a charity. Libraries Unlimited run 54 libraries across Devon, have 2.3million visits, and receive help from more than 700 volunteers offering more than 24,000 volunteer hours (including teenagers doing their Duke of Edinburgh Award!). Yes, reading is a tool to increase life chances, but libraries are much more than a place to borrow books. The slogan for Libraries Unlimited is ‘Enriching lives, building communities’, they are a community hub where everyone is welcome.
On a wider issue, I was shocked to hear on the news about the plans to phase out fire service co-responders across the Southwest, and the decision to move solely to volunteer community first responders. I put out a response on the same day and will be writing to the Southwest Ambulance Trust seeking information and answers to find out the detail, their reasoning, and whether their plans can be reconsidered. Please get in touch if there is anything I can help with.
Please help our local businesses and 'Think Local' whenever possible.
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Please contact Esther Williams on 07912 693 858.
Why Zumba with Wendy?
Zumba isn’t just about having fun, it’s a fantastic way to stay active, boost your mood, and improve overall health. It's the perfect way to:
• Improve balance and coordination – reduces the risk of falls and enhances stability.
• Build strength and endurance – keeps muscles strong and joints mobile.
• Improve your mood – releases endorphins to lift your mood and reduce stress.
• Get a great workout – a brilliant way to connect with others and stay motivated. Have fun whilst you exercise - there is no judgement here, no need to worry about going the wrong way. There are NO wrong moves! No dance experience required! Everyone is welcome. Join us for the next class and see what all the fun is about!
Every Thursday 6.15-7.15pm Torrington Scout Hall, Gas Lane Torrington EX38 7BE. No membership required. Pay as you go and pre-payment options available.
Contact Wendy to book your FREE trial class. Wendy.cox@btinternet.com; 07797 607 322.
Help at Home…
Hi, my name is Rachel. I have recently started up as a self-employed home help. I aim to provide help and assistance to people in their own homes to remain as independent as possible. I have worked for the NHS and Devon County Council, in many different care roles, for over 30 years. I have my NVQ in care and a current DBS certificate.
I appreciate that life is very hectic for a lot of families, and I would like to take the pressure off where I can. I would be happy to take you or your loved ones to appointments, accompany them to pick up some grocery shopping or even just to pop out for a cuppa and a change of scenery. If required I can help with household tasks, or assist with a shower or bath. I would like to think that I am a caring person who is honest and reliable. I will provide my clients with confidentiality and respect. I have business insurance for my vehicle and public liability insurance.
Please give me a call and I would be happy to discuss how I can assist you.
Rachel Watts, 07796 917 236.
Rachel’s Home Help
• Confidential & respectful
• Offering help with personal care, companionship, household tasks, shopping & attending appointments.
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News from Abbeyfield Glen Tor
Greetings from Glen Tor! Well, what a month June has been for us here at the house. We have enjoyed some lovely trips out this month. We’ve been to the rose festival at Rosemoor and enjoyed the amazing display of blooms; a day trip out with the Dartmouth Steam Train and Railway company enjoying an award-winning tour exploring South Devon! It included a steam train journey, river boat cruise and bus jaunt, visiting the quaint towns of Paignton, Dartmouth and Totnes. Of course this had to include lunch as well, well why wouldn’t we? Now to get down to business and start planning our summer fete. This year the theme is Hawaiian as Charlie, our staff member, wanted to serve pina coladas! There will hopefully be a BBQ, raffle, our usual stalls and possibly some island-themed games. Let’s just keep everything crossed for some Hawaiian-themed weather! Save the date August 16th 12-3pm. Prize for the best and loudest outfit! Aloha.
Glen Tor Team
Little John’s House
Little John’s House was established in 1994 by Mags Zaharia and her parents, Tilly and John Kimber from Torrington. The charity provides a permanent loving home for young people with additional needs. It also runs an 8-week summer school each year, which is accessible to hundreds of local children and young people, and a day centre - providing care, support and opportunities for the local youth community with additional needs living in and around Sibiu and Cisnadioara, Romania. Alongside this work support is given to some of the poorest families in the area by way of necessary everyday supplies.
Post-revolution Romania left the country with thousands of forgotten children with disabilities who were living in very poor conditions in state homes and hospitals. The Little John’s mission is to help those children and young adults in achieving a better quality of life and look to a brighter future.
Over the past 30 years, Tilly and John worked tirelessly alongside Mags and a number of willing volunteers, to make sure the house ran smoothly and continued providing support for the children into adulthood. Mags, together with her family, spent every summer at Little John’s House running the summer school, inviting in hundreds of local children. Both Tilly and John are sadly no longer with us and just last year, Mags’ son Alec, who was an inaugural part of the volunteer team, died in a horrible accident leaving the family, and extended Little John’s family, devastated. Mags and her family, together with the trustees of the charity, are determined to carry on the work set up all those years ago as even now the need in Romania appears to be just as great as it was 30 years ago. Unfortunately, times have moved on and costs are exponentially greater than they were 30 years ago, and we are seriously struggling to fund the charity.
The people of Torrington have been incredible in their support over the years, but we are having to reach out and ask if anyone is able to make further contributions to allow us to continue our work, helping as many young people as possible.
A little goes a long way when you donate monthly. You can help to ensure the young people are provided with the love and opportunities they deserve becoming a constant source of hope and help for those who need it the most. Please visit our website or scan the QR code to set up a monthly donation or a one-off payment. If we can appeal to enough people who might gift £5 or £10 per month, then we can see our way to helping those far less fortunate than ourselves for many more years to come. Thank you.
The Trustees of Little John’s House www.littlejohnshouse.co.uk
Torrington Commons Tree Trail
Friday July 25th
7-9pm, a guided walk by Mandy Harrison. Meet at the Old Bowling Green Lower Car Park EX38 8DL, grid ref SS 48517 19372. Please contact Hazel Donovan on 01805 804425.
Please no dogs, donations to Torrington Commons.
Torrington Museum
As I write this article it’s Volunteers’ Week 2025 and, even though it’ll have passed by the time of publication, I thought it was a great opportunity to tell you more about what volunteering at your local museum actually involves.
Lots of people still think of the traditional image of a museum volunteer: you know, the retired colonel in a blazer, glowering at you and watching like a hawk in case you dare show any interest or, heaven forbid, try to talk. Actually, it’s just the opposite! Our volunteers are friendly, sparky people who’ll welcome you with a smile and are happy to engage to help you make the most of your visit: after all, we want to you to have a good time and come back again and again to see new displays and show us off to your friends and family. We’re careful to make sure your visit’s the best you can have, so if you’d rather go round on your own that’s absolutely fine and we won’t pester you, hover over you or generally make a nuisance of ourselves but will always be there when you need us.
Oh, and we’re not experts in local history! We all know the basics, of course, but even that isn’t necessary because you pick up a lot as you go along, and we can generally track down the answers to even the most difficult questions so there’s no need to worry if that’s been putting you off. Besides, most visitors ask the same few questions and you soon develop a set of standard answers to the most common questions (the nearest Saturday to February 16th, round the corner on White’s Lane, and not since 2002, since you ask - and if you can work out what those questions were, you’re already halfway there!) but there’s no limit to the amount of knowledge you can build up. Speaking of building up knowledge, it really changes the way you walk around town when you know you’re standing where Oliver Cromwell was nearly killed or where American soldiers stayed in 1944; you feel very differently
about the town when you know more about it.
So, that’s the basic role. But, as with all museums, there’s a huge range of other things you can do, especially if you have other skills we can put to good use. If you worked with young people, we regularly host school visits or perhaps you were an administrator, in which case the back office running of the museum has plenty of things you have the skills for. Now the Market House ceiling is fixed, we’re embarking on a huge project in there, part of which will involve conservation of our extensive textile collection to make sure it’s preserved for future generations. May Fair outfits, military uniform, Lord and Lady Clinton’s coronation robes and a whole host of other objects all need cleaning, packing, reports written up and inventories completed. You’ll be fully trained by our Chair of Trustees, who spent 15 years working for the National Trust, and you’ll help with conservation demonstrations in public as well as working with some pretty cool stuff. If textiles aren’t your thing there’s also the rest of the collection to look after, of course, and you might be surprised at how much work goes into the conservation side that the public don’t generally get to see. Perhaps you’re handy at DIY or have good digital skills? There’s almost nothing we can’t put to work.
Shifts are pretty flexible because we’re all volunteers here and understand that real life happens too. You can do as many days, mornings or afternoons as you like and we’re open from 10am3pm, which is perfect if you’re looking for something to fit in with school dropoff and pick-up times. Volunteering also looks great on a CV, so if you’re jobhunting or thinking your work history’s a little thin lately, volunteering is a good way to add something which employers really like to see.
The last reason for volunteering is that it’s terrific fun: we have a fantastic team here and they’ll make you really welcome, plus of course you’ll meet new people every day when they visit. Of course, there are times when there’s nobody in apart from us, but even then, you’ll find lots of interesting things to do around the museum, so it’s never boring. Drop in for a chat any Thursday, Friday or Saturday between 10am-3pm or email us on enquiries@torringtonmuseum. org.uk and we’ll set up a trial session for you. There’s absolutely no pressure and we’ll give you all the training and support you need. We welcome anyone from 18 years and over and we’re very inclusive, so will do our absolute best to find a role for you if you have any specific accessibility or health needs. What are you waiting for? Come and join us!
Dave Gibbons, Chair of Trustees, Torrington Museum
Fabulous Freddie checking in with all the news from June, and what a sizzling, busy month it has been! We wrote last month about the stray cat we took in that very quickly produced four little kittens; well, the mum, now named Sparkle, has proved herself to be a great little mum and has been looking after her youngsters extremely well and they are all thriving - one girl and three boys. What is even better, is that Sparkle has a forever home to go to when the kittens are old enough to leave her. The little girl now called Spangles, also has a home, which just leaves the boys - Spot, Star and Spooky. Bringing kittens into the world is never cheap, as with all our cats (and dogs) they will be microchipped, vaccinated and neutered by the charity. For cats vaccinations cost £98 and neutering on average £210, and are much higher for us woofs, hence all the fundraising events our volunteers do!
Sadly, in addition to the costs quoted above, little Spot has a birth hernia, which will need to be operated on at a cost of £515, which will be undertaken as soon as he is old enough and we will update you next month.
It’s not been quiet on the dog front either. I am so pleased to advise that the handsome Otto has been adopted at long last and has his very own forever couch! As always, as soon as one goes out another arrives and so this month, we said hello to another handsome fella called King, who is a 15-monthold rottweiler. Blimey, all these handsome dogs coming our way, it’s making me feel a little oldbetter be on my best behaviour or Aunty Lynne may just think about swapping me in!!
I mentioned earlier that we are always fundraising; well, what a day we had at our dog show at Castle Hill Estate last month. It was packed and raised just over £1600, so a massive thank you to everyone who came and supported and, as always, to our volunteers who give their time freely. Lots of great pictures on our website and if you couldn’t go, well don’t worry as we have two more shows coming up in July.
Microsuction&Irrigation
Firstly, our own 15th Anniversary Fun Day and Dog Show at Torrington Commons on 12th July and then on the 26th we will be at High Bickington Summer Fete - all details are on our Facebook page and website. Now did you spot that it’s our 15th anniversary? 15 years of rescuing dogs and now cats as well! Our other event coming up to celebrate is our Black & White Gala, which we will be holding at the newly renovated Barnstaple Hotel on 9th August. Tickets cost £40 which is a real bargain for a champagne reception, three course meal, casino and dancing to the fabulous Soul Intention Band. So why not grab your party outfits and book a ticket now from our website - www. k9focus.co.uk. Party on and have fun, knowing you are helping all us woofs and purrfect pussycats!
I did say it had been a very busy month, and our last bit of news is that on Saturday, 2nd August we will be opening our K9Focus Community Hub & Charity Shop in Torrington, next to the Plough. More details can again be found on our website, but I will be cutting the ribbon at 12 noon and everyone is welcome to join us for coffee and cakes. Did I say that was our last bit of news? Well actually I forgot that June also saw us opening our charity boarding cattery - The Great Catsby (booking details on our website) where all profits will be donated to the rescue.
Well, that’s it from me this month, phew, no wonder I am tired!
Till next month, woofs and licks, Freddie
Rolle Canal News
Restoration Work at Furzebeam
Over recent months our team has concentrated its efforts on our ongoing project to restore the inclined plane at Ridd. However, there are other parts of the canal which require continuous maintenance, and we are anxious to ensure that these do not get overlooked. One such area is the section at Furzebeam, from the roving bridge south towards the Commons. Unfortunately, given other priorities, this has often been neglected in the past so, earlier in the year, we decided to spend a few weeks here in a sustained session to carry out some much-needed maintenance.
Our main objective was to remove the invasive rushes and brambles from the canal bed. To underline the waterretaining qualities of the canal, there is a 10-metre stretch close to the bridge which is extremely boggy. There were a number of occasions when volunteers were in serious danger of losing a wellington boot in the sludge! The work was also hampered by the presence of a huge fallen tree lying over the canal. This had been partially cut up several years ago to maintain access, but several massive limbs remained projecting towards the tow path. We had wanted to remove this tree for some time but had been deterred by the scale of the challenge. Fortunately, one of our team is an experienced chainsaw operator and rose to the challenge! He did this by severing the upper branch of the tree at its base. With some persuasion, this came down quite quickly and was sawn up into manageable lengths. The lower limb could then be safely tackled and was also dismantled.
This work has made a huge difference to the appearance of the canal, as the tree had lain across the canal for many years and was a visual eyesore. We also found a substantial number of tree sections lying in the canal which had been left there from previous fellings. With a lot of effort, we managed to lift
these out and position them along the towpath, which helps to define the edge of the path more clearly.
(There are a number of places where there is a drop of some thirty feet from the canal embankment to the river.) The damage to the embankment caused by falling trees is a perennial problem which requires attention.
Fortunately, our team has had a lot of experience dealing with such problems and we have been able to repair several serious collapses in recent years.
The rest of the team devoted their time to the important task of scrub bashing and clearing invasive vegetation. Up to our necks in the undergrowth and lacerated by brambles, it was quite possible to imagine how Henry Stanley felt on his quest to find Dr Livingstone! After three weeks of solid work, we
succeeded in clearing about 400 metres of the canal south from the roving bridge. The effect of all this effort has been to open up the canal quite dramatically, and clearly define the bed, which had virtually disappeared under a blanket of brambles and small saplings. All in all, this section of the canal is now looking in better shape than it has for many years andwe hope - can be properly appreciated by walkers.
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North Devon Ramblers Walks in July
Here is the programme of walks for July. It is great to see so many new people trying out our walks. Don’t forget that ‘Time out Tuesday’ walks (for everyone) will be continuing for those who prefer a shorter evening walk, making the most of our longer summer days.
1st July - Time out Tuesday. Join us for a gentle 3-4 mile walk from Bideford Victoria Park entrance around Bideford starting at 6.30pm and finishing with some refreshment!
5th July - The American Road, a circular walk from Braunton to Saunton along lanes and paths returning on the south-west coast path. Meet at 10am at the Caen St car park in Braunton. (approx. 10 miles.)
8th July - Time out Tuesday. Meet at the clock tower, Barnstaple for a gentle 3-4 mile walk around Barnstaple.
9th July - Take the bus to Lynmouth departing Barnstaple bus station at 10.50am and link up with the Exmoor Explorer (12.15pm departing from Lynmouth). Walk from County Gate back to Lynmouth for the return bus to Barnstaple. (approx. 7 miles.)
12th July - A classic Exmoor walk starting from Challacombe (Rooksfoot Bridge) at 10.30am. (9.5 miles.) See the website for more details.
15th July - Time out Tuesday from Bideford. Meet at 6.30pm. Same details as before.
19th July - Dartmoor Way Weekend, starting from Buckfastleigh Abbey at 10.30am, walking to Ashburton (10.5 miles.)
20th July - Dartmoor Way Weekend, starting from Reddaford Water to Ashburton. (12 miles.) This is a linear walk. Please book with Janice by 13th July so that transport can be coordinated. See the website for more details.
22nd July - Time out Tuesday. Meet at the clock tower, Barnstaple for a gentle 3-4 mile walk around Barnstaple.
24th July - Trio of churches by train. Meet at Barnstaple station at 10.15am for train to Lapford. Walk to Coldridge for a visit to the church and return from Eggesford. This walk needs to be booked in advance with Mo. See the website for details. (10 miles.)
26th July - Great Links Tor and Widgery Cross. Meet at 10.30am behind the Dartmoor Inn for a 9-mile ramble on Dartmoor.
For further details for any of these walks, see our website at northdevonramblers. org.uk.
Open Gardens
Torrington Rotary & Torrington in Bloom Open Gardens tickets are available from Whiskers Pet Shop and Duffys Hardware from June, and on the day, 20th July, at Castle Hill Gardens (by the car park).
Torrington Memory Cafe
Torrington Memory Cafe has been running for 13 years. It meets every second Thursday of the month. The cafe is entirely free to all who have memory issues and/or carers. Please come, join us and share the supportive, friendly atmosphere. New faces are always welcome. Perhaps you may wish to volunteer?
More information from Lorraine Pearce (Leader) 07377 363 477 or John Pitts (Secretary) 07986 586 799.
Wellbeing Cafe
Would you like to meet others and find out about different groups, activities and organisations in our local area? Come and enjoy a FREE cuppa and have a chat with the Social Prescribers from our local GP Surgeries. All welcome! Hope to see you there. Phone for more information or just pop in! Justine 07377 176 457.
At The Market Café, 13 Pannier Market, Torrington, EX38 8HD. Every first Thursday of the month, 9.30-11am.
The Adventure Awaits at Taw Fishing Club: Where Every Cast Tells a Story
At Taw
Fishing Club, we believe that every great adventure starts with a cast, and every moment on the water is an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Nestled in the serene beauty of Taw Valley, our club offers more than just fishing - it’s about connecting with nature, honing your skills, and being part of a community that shares a deep love for the waters.
Our story:
Taw Fishing Club was founded by a group of passionate anglers back in 1912 who shared a vision: to create a welcoming space where fishing enthusiasts of all levels could come together to enjoy the sport, learn from each other, and relax in the peaceful embrace of nature. From seasoned pros to beginners eager to cast their first line, the club is a place for everyone to enjoy the thrill of the catch.
Why Taw Fishing Club?
• Exclusive access to prime locations. As a member, you gain exclusive access to some of the most beautiful and pristine fishing waters in the region. Whether you’re chasing the perfect wild brown trout or hoping for a big catch, a sea trout or even a salmon, our carefully selected fishing spots are perfect for any angler.
• Learn from the best. We have members who are professional guides that can take you not only on club beats, but fish on other rivers too. As a club we hold regular sessions throughout the season around bank and river maintenance and ad hoc sessions on casting and tackle set up.
• A community of passionate anglers. Fishing is more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. At Taw Fishing Club, you’ll meet like-minded individuals who share your love for the sport. Whether you’re swapping stories face to face on our meet up days or fishing alongside fellow members, you’ll find camaraderie in every cast.
• Escape to tranquillity. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of daily life and escape to the peaceful waters of Taw Valley. The sound of the flowing river, the thrill of the catch, and the tranquillity of nature will help you unwind and reconnect with what matters most.
• Commitment to nature. As a club we are committed to the conservation of the river and surrounding area, we work with local and national groups on water quality, tree planting, bank erosion, fish refuge area in certain parts of the river and good practice and management of the river in general.
Our promise: At Taw Fishing Club, we promise that every visit will be an adventure, no matter how big or small the catch. It’s about the joy of being outdoors, the thrill of the sport, and the camaraderie of a community united by a love of fishing. We welcome new members novice or professional, please visit www.tawfishingclub.org to find out more.
Friends of Great Torrington Library AGM
The Friends of Great Torrington Library support and help the library in many ways, by fundraising and paying for events and workshops held in the library as well as helping out at various events, not to mention providing tea and cake at Meet up Mondays!
Our AGM was held on 5th June, and we were delighted to welcome Cheryl Cottle Hunkin, our new County Councillor, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, who includes libraries among her responsibilities. Our guest speaker was Alex Kittow, Chief Executive of Libraries Unlimited, the charity that has the contract from DCC to run the county’s 54 libraries, lending 1.5 million books each year. He pointed out that in the past six years fixed costs for running the libraries have risen considerably (by 86% in the case of gas and electric), while funding has been reduced by 2%. Despite this, Torrington library has run 380 events in the past year, attended by 6,735 people, while also lending 18,472 books, thanks to the hard work of our library staff. Congratulations were also offered to our Chairman, Joy Morrison, who has been appointed as a trustee with Libraries Unlimited. She will be the only member of a friends’ group on the board and the only member from North Devon, so Torrington will be very well represented.
Friends of Great Torrington Library
BBQ at Little Torrington Victory Hall
Little Torrington Victory Hall is holding a Summer BBQ on Saturday 26th July from 4-7pm. Everyone welcome - bar, raffle and games. No booking required, just come along!
GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
From Your Mayor…
It seems hard to believe that it was a full month ago that we were all enjoying our town's V.E Day celebrations.
Everyone really did get into the swing of things (no pun intended) with the Swing and Lindy Hop workshops at the Town Hall during the day, in preparation for the celebrations which followed in our Pannier Market, which was beautifully decorated, and a joy to behold. The entertainment throughout the day was superb! We had the fabulous Hummingbirds vocal group, and our wonderful Silver Band providing music from the era, and many putting the dance moves - many in 40s costumes - they had earlier learnt into practice. A mobile bar, and nearby food vendors, helped to ensure that a good time was had by all. The evening closed with the lighting of a beacon, the lowering of a flag, the ‘Last Post’ being played, and a minute’s silence. What a tremendous event.
A huge thank you goes to everyone who helped make the day such a great success, with a particular mention to our Town Council's Charlotte Kirby, who planned and organised the event, and her fellow Council land girls, Jennie Smithson and Sharon Lambert, who made sure that everything ran with military precision!
The following weekend I had the privilege of compering the Massed Bands concert at Rosemoor. Being given the opportunity to hear Appledore, Bideford and our own Silver Band, playing both individually and together, was superb. My thanks go to all musicians, and conductors involved.
This last month we have been involved in mayor making activities. These are the occasions where mayors are sworn in to perform their duties for the coming year. We’ve attended events for the mayors of Barnstaple, Bideford and Northam, and of course my own on 21st May. To be made mayor last year was a terrific honour, and to be elected for a second year was no less an honour! My thanks go to all who attended this ceremony, and particularly to those that I had the pleasure of presenting the following awards:
The Howe Plate: Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club for all their hard work in working with young people. Not only teaching them the skills of boxing but also developing within them a true respect for others!
The Good Citizens Award: Mr. Al Mitchell in recognition of his remarkable commitment to our town through his work as the common's Head Ranger, Town Crier, Flag Raiser, and Town Marshall. Big Al always goes beyond the call of duty in all he does for our town.
The Young Person's Award: This is a new award sponsored by Dartington Crystal. The first recipient was young Elliot Ashelford for all his fundraising activities and being involved in our Town Tidy campaigns over the years.
The Mayor's Cadet Award: Corporal George Batten, for supporting me throughout the year. At all times George has proved himself to be courteous, efficient, and incredibly professional. A real credit to both his cadet Division and his family.
I look forward to working with Lance Corporal Imogen Pascoe, who was honoured to take up the baton in the role of Mayor's Cadet for this coming year. Also, during the evening, I presented cheques to my past charities, the
Children's Hospice South West, Torri Youth, and our own Torrington Amateur Running Club. This year I have decided to raise funds for two local charities.
One group which has many members with dodgy knees, aching backs, and often sore heads. Yes, you've guessed it...Torrington Rugby Club! My second charity is one that provides some of our more senior citizens with a warm comfortable venue where they can sit, talk and have a laugh, whilst enjoying a cuppa and biscuit, for just £1. The Bickford Centre.
Recently I became the Council's representative on the town's Torrington in Bloom committee. This incredibly hardworking group helps keep our town's flower beds, public gardens, and park looking beautiful throughout the whole year. They’re a very friendly group and I know would give a warm welcome to any new member, so why not join them? Also please enjoy the open gardens event which will be taking place in the very near future.
Similarly last week I attended a meeting of our May Fair and Carnival committee. Yet again a glorious example of very small group of individuals working tirelessly to ensure that year on year we do have May Fair and Carnival celebrations! They really are desperate for new members, without which the future of the said events will be in question! So please come along and join us.
Well, that completes my piece for this month. I can assure you that I will continue to fulfil my role to the very best of my ability, and that Elizabeth and myself, will do all we can to serve and promote our lovely town. So as usual, take care, keep safe, and thank you for your continued support.
Phil Cloke, Mayor of Great Torrington
Co-Option of Town Councillor
The Town Council has vacancies for four Co-Opted Councillors to join us.
Becoming a Town Councillor will give you the opportunity to get involved with various projects and interests within the community of Great Torrington. If you are passionate about the town, prepared to roll your sleeves up and get involved, and meet at least one of the criteria below, we invite you to apply detailing why you are interested in becoming a Town Councillor and what you feel you can bring to the role.
If the answer to at least one of the below statements is “yes”, you are eligible to apply for this voluntary role:
a) I am registered as a local government elector for the parish; or
b) I have, during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of my co-option, occupied as owner or tenant, land or other premises in the parish; or c) My principal or only place of work during those twelve months has been in the parish; or
d) I have during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of my co-option resided in the parish or within three miles of it.
Application forms are available from
the Town Council office or can be downloaded from our website: www. great-torrintontowncouncil.gov.uk
We welcome applicants from all walks of life who are over 18 and meet the above criteria. The more varied the membership of the council the more diverse the range of issues and perspectives that can be represented.
If you have a little bit of time each month to attend meetings, please do get in touch. Current members range from local business owners, managers and staff to postmen, teachers, retired nurses, volunteers, sound engineers etc. There are no barriers. A good council benefits from being representative of the local community, so if you think you would like to represent issues for a certain sector of the community give us a call.
For an informal chat with one of the team, please call the office on 01805 626135. Email admin@greattorringtontowncouncil.gov.uk. Closing date Thursday 21st August 2025. Cooptions will take place at the Full Council meeting on Wednesday 3rd September 2025. Great Torrington Town Council, Castle Hill Community Building, South Street, Torrington.
TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB
Allotments Available for Residents of the Parish of Great Torrington Great Torrington Town Council provides 40 allotments at Weare Trees, on the road to Weare Gifford. Each allotment plot measures approximately 7m x 21m and at present the cost for renting a plot is £18 per year. The site is very popular, the views are glorious, and it is a sunny spot.
We currently have some vacancies. To find out more please contact us on 01805 626135 or by email to admin@ great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk.
Mayor’s Civic Parade and Service
The Mayor, Councillor Phil Cloke, will hold his Civic Service at St Michaels and All Angel’s Church, Great Torrington on Sunday 12th October 2025 at 10am: the service will be led by Fr. Steve Turner and combined with the regular Parish Eucharist Sunday service. Torrington Silver Band will lead a parade to St Michael’s Church before the service. The parade will depart from Sydney House Car Park at approximately 9:30am: if you wish to join the parade, please assemble in Sydney House Car Park outside the Castle Hill building from 9:15am. Please note: standards should not be paraded.
GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
Town Council Awards 2025
This year the Town Council has awarded the Howe Plate to Torrington Police Amateur Boxing Club, in recognition of the many hours volunteered to support local young people in developing their physical skills and building their confidence.
The volunteers at the club have done extensive work in creating the amazing training venue at Torridge Vale Social Club, where boxers train for fitness and fun as well as in preparation for representing the club and the town all around the country at boxing shows. The volunteers also dedicate many hours to training and accompanying the boxers to various venues across the country, to put their skills into practice.
Heathcliffe Pettifer and Shaun Kenneally attended the mayor’s introduction ceremony to collect the award on behalf of the club.
The Mayor’s Good Citizen Award for 2025, was given by Mayor Cllr Phil Cloke to Alan Mitchell, in recognition of the remarkable work Al does for the community, as Head Commons Ranger, Town Crier, Flag Raiser, Town Marshall and local celebrity. Big Al was given a well-deserved standing ovation on receiving his award and gave a great speech about his selection as Town Crier many years ago. Congratulations Al!
This year Great Torrington Town Council awarded the first ever Young Person’s Award, sponsored by Dartington Crystal. All the nominees were outstanding and very deserving, so it was a difficult decision.
The winner for 2025 was ten-year-old Elliott Ashelford, nominated by Cllr Keeley Allin, for his commitment to Town Tidy events over the years, his willingness to make suggestions and try to create change and his recent fundraising efforts particularly for Torrington Silver Band.
Congratulations to all the award nominees and winners, it was great to welcome you all to the Mayors Introduction Ceremony.
Meet your Town Councillors
Cllr Chris Bright
Alittle bit of a background on me. I studied Engineering at both school and college. I always knew I was going to be making something for a career. I got an apprenticeship with Appledore Shipyard as a shipwright and later became a safety rep. I worked on aircraft carriers, submarines, frigates, and patrol vessels. I worked there for 10 years until it closed in 2019 (I am glad to say it has since reopened and is still open). After that I started work in South Molton making aircraft components, and I am currently a CNC machinist there, and also a safety rep and quality rep as part of that role.
I have been on Great Torrington Town Council since 2017 and a Torridge District Councillor since 2019. I became a councillor because I wanted to ensure the best for the town’s future. It’s that simple. That principle has led me to speak out on planning issues, argue on policy decisions, challenge the actions of other authorities and bodies, and to challenge the councils of which I am a member
I currently live on South Street with my lovely wife Lauren, and my three-yearold son and keen drummer, Humphrey. And while it is hard to juggle a full-time job, two councils, childcare and family, I know I do it to try and make Torrington the best town for Humphrey’s generation.
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From Your District Councillors…
Town regeneration
There was a good turnout of shop owners, businesses, and community groups, at a public meeting in early June about the current projects of the Torrington Regeneration Board. Attendees learned more about the development of the town’s website and new town branding, opportunities for local traders to upskill and to boost their businesses, and ways they could get involved in the new Tarka the Otter Trail. If you would like to find out more about the work of the Regeneration Board or get involved in these and future projects, please email great-torrington@torridge. gov.uk.
The town’s pannier market has recently undergone a significant refurbishment programme to ensure it remains a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike. As part of the transformation, a set of new doors has been installed. TDC’s aim was to create a more inviting and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Ceilings, walls, roof supports, pillars and gates have all been given a fresh coat of paint. Improvements to the available lighting, power and ventilation mean that food vendors are able to use the space alongside other market stall holders. A new high-security external storage shed for the market’s tables and chairs has
CHURCH STREET STORES DOLTON EX19 8QE Tel: 01805 804205
also been constructed. If you haven’t had a chance to see the refurbishment for yourself yet, head on over on a Friday or Saturday to take a look and browse the market stalls. Thanks to the officers involved in seeing this project to completion.
Car parks
This month, there are some updates on the theme of car parking. The electric charging points in the car parks in Torridge have not been operational for over a year, and this was the fault of the company who installed and owned the charging points, despite TDC’s best efforts to make the company repair them. The threshold for non-performance has now been reached, and the contract has been terminated. TDC officers have already started a bidding process for 24 new electric vehicle charging points across the district and are planning for them to be in place by the end of summer. There are soon to be new parking machines installed across the district because the old ones have reached end of life, particularly the ones corroded by saltwater in coastal areas. The new machines will still use cash sales, but they will also use 75% less energy than the current models, they will have LED displays allowing for us to advertise community events on screen, and on top of that they will have solar panels on them (location dependant).
And the last update on parking is that
Monday to Saturday 6.30am - 8.00pm Sunday 8.00am - 7.00pm Convenience Store & Post Office www.churchststores.co.uk for our latest offers
next year Torridge will be joining the National Parking Platform. This system, led by the Government, is to make parking apps work together. This will allow all parking apps to be able to pay for parking at any car park, instead of people having to download new apps for specific car parks across the country. If you have any concerns in your area, please get in touch.
Every Thursday 10am-2pm. Band N foods always in attendance selling fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and bakery goods together with other stalls. More stall holders wanted! Tables £5 please ring Mo if you are interested 07747 453 774.
Popular cafe serving breakfast and lunch with reasonable prices (£7 - £8 for breakfast and main meal). Come and browse and borrow a huge range of books from our community library, use the Milk Cart or facilities from the Post Office van (11.30am-12.30pm).
TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION
General Builders
Groundworks
Slabbing & Fencing
HS & E Tested
Call Jason t: 07968 825 811
Great Torrington, North Devon
Thank You
On May 1st we went to the polls to elect our new county councillors. I stood as your local Conservative candidate, but unfortunately this time it was not meant to be. I came third behind Reform, who were second to Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin (Lib Dem).
Firstly, I would like to thank the retiring Andrew Saywell, who over his eight years as our County Councillor for Torrington Rural has been an absolute stalwart, working his socks off representing us all.
Secondly, I would like to congratulate Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin on her election to Devon County Council and on becoming our new representative for Torrington Rural. I wish her the best.
Thirdly, but most importantly, I would like to thank all 1,023 of you who voted for me. I appreciate you putting your trust and faith in me, but sadly this time I didn’t prevail. I will still continue my role as District Councillor for the Two Rivers and Three Moors Ward, alongside Cllr Lock.
With the LGR on the horizon, we could be back to the polls at any point in the next two to four years to elect our new unitary council, of which, I hope to be selected to stand again for you all and give it another shot.
Thank you very much indeed, your support means a huge amount to me, and I look forward to building up to next time.
Thomas John Elliott
TRIPLE J CONSTRUCTION
Painting & Decorating
Interior & Exterior
Contact Jason or Tony t: 07968 825 811 t: 07790 645 063
Open Garden for The National Garden Scheme
Mowhay, Merton EX20 3DS
This is our first year opening for the NGS, a charity that supports health and nursing charities.
If you were not aware, the NGS is the only charity that raises money for other charities - a strange concept you may think. It started in the early 1900s as a result of a wealthy businessman needing care of a Queen’s Nurse, and realising that she only got paid when she worked. A full history and how it all started is available on their website, and at our garden, and also a talk delivered on behalf of the charity.
The NGS has raised over £74 million pounds since then; last year alone was £3.5 million, every penny of which went to our charities which include MacMillan (£450,00) Hospice Care (£450,000) Marie Curie (£450,000) Parkinsons UK (£350,000), Carers Trust (£350,000) Queen’s Nurses (£500,000) plus 12 others and a Community Garden Programme – Devon raised £196,000 all on its own!
So that’s why we get involved. Please do pay us a visit. The garden is four years old so there are still a few things we to do, but we have ponds, a waterfall, a white garden, recycled ornaments, a Hosta Walk, a veg patch, an orchard, oh and roses - we have a lot of them! There are delicious cakes and tea /coffee available. Opening: 10am and 4pm, Saturday 19th July and Sunday 20th July and 2nd & 3rd August. We also open by arrangement for groups of 10 or more - to book for a private visit please contact us (07727 657 246). It costs £6 entry, and the refreshments are reasonably priced and cut rather generously!
We look forward to seeing you.
Kerry and Neil Littleales. www.ngs.org.uk Follow us on Facebook @makingmowhay
Coffee & Pancakes at St Michael & All Angels Church
We’re delighted to share that St Michael & All Angels Church is now offering ‘Coffee & American Pancakes’ on the last Saturday of each month, from 10.30am to 12 noon. Whether you are just popping in for a cuppa or fancy a stack of pancakes and a chat, everyone is very welcome — we would love to see you!
Our Sunday morning service takes place every week at 10am, and you are welcome to join us at any time, whether that’s every Sunday, some Sundays, or just now and then - we look forward to seeing you soon!
Why do I need to Vaccinate my Pet?
Vaccinations are needed to:
• Protect our pets from nasty, life threatening diseases
• Give peace of mind
• Create or boost our pets’ immunity to certain diseases
• Prevent pets from passing on a disease such as Leptospirosis, which can be passed from animals to people
Sadly, a lot of the diseases your pet can catch if they aren’t vaccinated are fatal in most cases. Even if your pet catches one and can recover, they will often be left with long-term problems which can put them through a lot of pain and distress and leave you with some costly vet bills.
How do vaccines work?
When your pet is vaccinated, a small amount of the disease (changed so it can’t cause illness), is injected into them. This teaches their immune system to defend itself against that disease, so if they are exposed to it for real, they are much less likely to become poorly.
Dog vaccinations overview
All dogs in the UK should be vaccinated against:
Parvovirus – a highly contagious, potentially deadly disease that causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea. After an initial primary course, parvo vaccination is usually necessary every three years.
Distemper – a very serious disease that affects several different organs in the body including the guts, heart, immune system, lungs, brain and nerves. After
an initial primary course, distemper vaccination is usually necessary every three years.
Infectious Hepatitis – a virus that attacks the liver, kidneys, eyes and blood vessels. Infectious hepatitis spreads in bodily fluids and can survive in the environment for up to a year. After an initial primary course, infectious hepatitis vaccination is usually necessary every three years.
Leptospirosis – a bacterial disease that causes serious illness by damaging vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. After an initial primary course, leptospirosis vaccination is usually necessary every year.
Some dogs need other vaccines, such as:
• Kennel cough – recommended if your dog mixes with a lot of other dogs or has a health condition that could make kennel cough more serious. It’s usually a requirement if your dog spends time in kennels, doggy day care, has a dog walker, or attends dog events and shows. Kennel cough vaccination should be given each year your dog is at risk.
• Rabies – necessary for dogs that travel in and out of the UK. Rabies vaccination is given every one to three years (depending on the vaccine) – your vet will discuss the best schedule to keep your dog safe if you are travelling abroad.
Cat vaccinations overview
All cats in the UK, even indoor cats,
need to be vaccinated against:
• Cat Flu (protects against Feline Herpes Virus and Calicivirus)
• Feline parvovirus (also known as 'Panleukopenia'/'Infectious Enteritis')
If your cat goes outside, even just your garden, they also need a vaccine for:
We don’t take it too seriously! Come and have fun. Players aged 18 to 118. 7.30-9pm, Wednesdays at Little Torrington Victory Hall, £3. Please telephone Jen on 01805 622433.
Badminton for Fun!
Torrington Methodist Church
Awarm welcome from Torrington Methodist Church EX38 8AL, top of Mill Street.
Sunday Worship 10.30am at Church. Evening Worship 6.30pm via Zoom, email sarahrichards185@gmail.com to request link.
Mid-week Morning Prayer every Wednesday 9.30am (around 20-30 minutes) tea and coffee afterwards, should you wish to stay.
Join us for our Bacon Butty Coffee Morning 10am-12pm, third Saturday every month, followed by Warm Welcome from noon to 2pm with soup, bread rolls, hot drinks and the possibility of cake! (Warm Welcome at no charge). Come and relax, chat and enjoy crafts as well if you like.
(Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.) Our premises (various rooms, incl. wifi, projector) are available to hire, see website or phone Sheila 01805 622949.
Blessings from us all, hope to meet you soon.
Torrington Baptist Church
Services on Sunday mornings at 10.30am followed by refreshments.
Everyone is welcome to join our friendly, growing fellowship, as we seek to glorify God in our worship.
Fleur’s Gardening Forum
Pruning your Prunus
The best time to prune your Prunus trees is during the late summer, rather than winter. The main reason behind this is because if these trees are pruned during the winter months, there is a chance that you could introduce a disease called ‘silver leaf’. The symptoms are not always that obvious, but leaves take on a silvery sheen and, over time, affected trees will lose vigour and branches will gradually die off.
Silver leaf disease is caused by a fungus that spreads by spores which find their way into damaged parts of the tree, including the bark.
An affected branch, if cut, will show brown staining in the centre. The most vulnerable Prunus varieties are plums and cherries.
Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News
1st Torrington Scouts
Pruning these trees is no different from any other; that is, you first remove anything that is dead (more obvious during summer) or damaged, back to a healthy branch. Remove any rotting fruit too, because that will deter insect pests from possibly spreading diseases.
If you do find silver leaf disease whilst pruning, make sure you thoroughly disinfect any tools you are using before moving on to prune healthy trees! Also, treat pruned branches with a ‘wound protector’ paint.
Try to reduce branches that are growing towards the centre of the tree; this will enable more light and air to penetrate the tree and may help reduce the spread of infection. This will also encourage fruit to ripen better.
If you are growing trees as cordons, espaliers or fans, you also need to train in any new branches and be even stricter with your pruning regime. Cordon trees need a central trunk, with smaller branches or fruiting spurs growing off. Espaliers and fans will need new strong stems to be trained and tied into the existing framework. Choose only those which are to replace branches you have already removed and trim growth back to fruiting spurs those growing from existing branches.
After you have completed your pruning, you can mulch around the base of these trees with well-rotted compost.
I've lost count of the many, many people who say what a brilliant idea this group is, but that somehow joining and ordering remains on their 'to-do' list. After nearly 10 years of hearing this, my response is simply that all groups need new active members, otherwise they're simply likely to cease to exist. So, if you like the sound of what we offer, do get in touch, join and come along to our free social on collection day, details below.
Not familiar with what we're about?
We're a Torringtonbased group enabling members to order organic wholefoods from our wholesaler's catalogue of over 5000 items, at wholesale prices, i.e. at least 25% less than retail prices. Anyone is welcome to join, and our members include both single person households, families, the disabled, the young and the not so young. Our aim is to make better quality food available at affordable prices to more people, and to support our health and that of our families. You can find full information and become a member at no cost on our website, owbg.jimdofree.com.
protonmail.com is very helpful so we are in the know about numbers.
Wellbeing tip: Smoothies are often thought of as a convenient and enjoyable way of consuming plenty of fruit and vegetables. Quite so, provided we avoid turning them into another form of junk food, full of processed sugar and cheap fat, laden with empty calories.
"We're a Torrington-based group enabling members to order organic wholefoods from our wholesaler's catalogue of over 5000 items, at wholesale prices, i.e. at least 25% less than retail prices."
Smoothies are excellent, containing whole fruits and vegetables, rather than simply juice with the pulp discarded. But do be aware that giving your taste buds sole control of the recipe, isn’t a good idea! Avoid too much high calorie fruit, rather keep the balance with vegetables too, especially leafy greens such as kale, dandelion leaves, spinach etc. Lemon is alkalizing to the body, and ginger root lends spice and warmth in cooler weather. Absolutely avoid ice –all chilled food and drink is damaging to the kidneys, which burst into tears when you so much as even look at ice cream, being iced and hugely high in refined sugar is a deathly combination.
At our order collection day social and lunch, we have great discussions, sharing knowledge and supporting each other in our efforts to really invest in our own health and rise to any health challenges we may have. Our kitchens are our pharmacy, and we enjoy swapping recipes, techniques and tasting each other's dishes.
Anyone interested in finding out more about what we do and in joining OWBG is welcome. Guests very often say how much they enjoyed themselves, how lovely it was to meet such interesting people and to partake of delicious healthy food made and contributed by the members. If you would like to come – do! The dates and location are on our website and a quick email to owbg@
Superfood powders e.g. moringa, spirulina, barley grass, maca, carob and cacao make great additions.
Bearing these points in mind, smoothies are a healthy, useful and enjoyable alternative to snacks and light meals, especially now the warmer weather is here.
Upcoming grocery final order dates: 10th July, 14th August.
• How do I join? Via our website, where you'll find all the info you need.
• What does membership cost? Free.
• What if I need advice or have questions? Ring 01805 623 307/email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk
Carrying on with a jam-packed term the Beavers took a trip up to Torrington Golf Club, where they had a go at some simple golf games: they learnt some basic skills, and this was good fun - with one or two close calls with the clubs. We then took a trip to Let’s Go Tenpin Bowling, everyone got involved, and we even had a few strikes. After half term the Beavers continued with their badge work. This meeting was all about global issues where they learnt about recycling, endangered animals and fair-trade products. Their favourite part was getting to eat some fair-trade foods. The term’s not over yet though, with plenty more to come.
The Scouts also took a trip to the golf club, where their shots were ‘slightly’ more accurate than the Beavers. They also went to Let’s Go Tenpin Bowling, this was definitely a fun activity. The Scouts enjoyed catching up and got very competitive with each other; one of them even let the leader have their go, a lucky strike that was! Carrying on with the term, they have planned their food for the upcoming food challenge where they will be judged on their cooking, as well as playing a good old game of hide and seek, with some interesting rules. Still more to come in the summer term. The group needs your support, for more information please contact our group Scout Leader Jordon on jordon. whitear@gmail.com.
St Michael & All Angels Church
Awarm welcome always awaits you. We are a friendly and inclusive community where everyone is valued,both regular worshippers or those visiting for the first time.
Services are held every Sunday at 10am and Thursday at 10.30am, we would love for you to join us in worship, prayer, and fellowship. You will find a place of warmth and friendship. We really look forward to seeing you soon!
Fleur
The Crier Prize Crossword
The winner of this month’s crossword will receive a physiotherapy session, which will include a full assessment, to the value of £60. Please send your completed crossword with contact details to The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA, or email to torrington. crier@gmail.com. The winner for the last issue is Carol Gale The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 10th June.
Anna Squire is an exceptionally experienced and highly qualified specialist physiotherapist, with over 25 years’ experience working in senior physiotherapy roles in both the NHS and the military. As well as her vast clinical experience, she keeps up to date with the latest research in her field and qualified with distinction with a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Research from the University of Plymouth.
Anna offers expert assessment and tailored treatment for a wide range of conditions, including all spinal conditions such as sciatica, neck related headaches and all nerve related pains in arms and legs. All joint symptoms, all types of muscle, tendon and ligament injuries, including acute sports injuries. Postoperative rehabilitation is also offered. This list is not exhaustive, and Anna is very happy to discuss your particular injury or problem before booking an appointment. Client feedback echoes the quality of Anna’s work - one Google review writes: “After years of suffering shoulder pain and trying many specialists I had almost given up. Anna was my last try and I am so thankful for finding her. She is extremely professional and knowledgeable with a positive, kind and caring nature. It is thanks to Anna’s support, treatment and advice that I was able to recover and live my life without pain…”
The clinic is conveniently located on Hatchmoor Common Lane on the outskirts of Torrington, making it easy to reach both from rural areas and from Torrington. There is parking directly outside making for easy access to the clinic for those who are less mobile.
Great Torrington Water Forum
Planning for long-term resilience of our water system is critical. But is pouring billions into massive infrastructure, with long lead times and community disruption the only way forward? Let’s not fall into the trap of thinking reservoirs alone can secure our water future. We urgently need a more diverse, decentralised approach, and water reuse should be front and centre. This has been known for years, but ignored by our planning authorities both local and national.
What about capturing rainwater and greywater at source in homes, businesses, communities and reusing it for non-potable applications like toilet flushing, irrigation, and cooling?
This relieves pressure on our drinking water systems today, not just decades from now. Instead of overriding local objections to build more mega-projects, why not empower local solutions that:
• Reduce potable water demand
• Build resilience close to where water is consumed
• Avoid the ecological and social costs of large reservoirs
We need a complete overhaul of the way we use water… to recycle water where it is used, rather than pumping it across huge distances using large amounts of energy. We can’t afford to be narrow-minded. Let’s invest in smarter, more circular water systems, not just bigger ones. This means making new developments and extensions to existing buildings water neutral and building smart water systems. We will explain water neutrality in a future article. More bad news about contamination in water. TFAs are forever chemicals
that form when some pesticides and chemicals used in refrigeration and air conditioning degrade. We've never seen in recent history a chemical that’s accumulating in so many media at such a high rate. It’s accumulating in our tap water, the food we’re eating, plants, trees, the sea, and all in the past few decades. If you’re drinking water, you’re drinking a lot of TFA, wherever you are in the world. China had a 17-fold increase of TFA in surface waters in a decade, the US had a sixfold increase in 23 years. Water companies in England have to test for 47 types of PFAS in drinking water. Unfortunately, TFA is not one of them, in spite of studies indicating TFA levels increasing in water. The use of TFAforming pesticides may be behind rising TFA levels in groundwater, which is, in turn, used to irrigate crops, finding its way into food. German authorities have classified TFA as toxic to reproduction and the European Chemicals Agency will consider whether a similar classification and restrictions should be applied Europe-wide. For wine drinkers, TFAs have contaminated groundwater and soil, meaning grapes are exposed to accumulating levels of TFAs. The study found no TFAs in wines produced before 1988, a ‘moderate increase’ thereafter, and a sharp rise after 2010, which could suggest, for wines, application of PFAS containing pesticides, and their consequent accumulation in soil, water and the vines themselves, may be the driving factor in rising TFA contamination. Contact us @ gtwaterforum@gmail. com, www.facebook.com/great torrington water forum, www.linkedin.com.
Devon Sensory Outreach Service
This outreach service is available around the towns and villages of West Devon and Torridge on a regular timetable, offering a free, confidential, and impartial service for people with a hearing and/or sight loss. What does the Sensory Outreach Service offer?
* Trained staff who understand the effects of hearing and sight loss and can provide support and advice.
* Demonstrate and short term loan of a wide range of equipment to help with everyday difficulties includinghearing the doorbell and smoke alarm, listening to the television and managing communication on the telephone. Lamps, tactile markers, and talking alarm clocks and watches.
* Manufacturers contact details and up to date catalogues. Help to order equipment.
* A wide range of information on hearing and visual impairment and services available locally and nationally.
* Information and referral to other services provided by Devon County Council or sources of other professional help.
* Maintenance of NHS hospital hearing aids. Batteries and retubing. Visits The Bickford Centre, South Street. EX38 8AA on 1st Wednesday every two months: next visit 6th August. Anne Humphreys, Rehab OfficerHearing Impairment Sensory Team 07966 596881 or 01392 386611
Weare Giffard Village Hall Art Exhibition
Our very popular yearly art exhibition will take place at Weare Village Hall on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July between 10am and 4pm.
Not only are these local artists, probably the most talented you are ever likely to come across, but they also make the best cakes to have with a hot drink!
Our joint project this year is a large wall painting of a ‘Dartmoor Clapper Bridge’, sixteen individual tiles, each one by a different artist. There is lots to see, plenty of parking and a warm welcome to all, so do come and join us.
e will be having a Light Lunch on Tuesdays at 12.30pm until about 2.30pm. There will be a suggested donation of £2. Anyone looking for lunch and some good company is welcome.
Call or message Matt on: 07808 056 473 or Facebook: Matts-Garden-Services
Friendly professional lawn mowing and general garden maintenance. Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding.
Garden waste removal and jet washing services also available.
Thanks to your incredible support, our ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign is making fantastic progress! We’re thrilled to announce some exciting upgrades:
- A brand-new scissor lift is in action
- Our new fire alarm system is nearly complete - Shiny new fire doors installed
- Repairs and double glazing for our historic sash windows are just around the corner!
We’re so close to unlocking the full potential of a £245,000 grant – we’ve already released £67,000, but we need to raise just £28,000 more to receive the full amount. Every donation brings us one step closer to transforming your community arts space – thank you for being part of it! If you want to donate, please go to: donorbox.org/the-plougharts-centre-buy-a-brick-build-our-future.
Thank you!
Open Air Theatre Festival – Summer at its best!
Looking for the perfect day out?
Gather your friends and family and
enjoy our Open-Air Theatre Festival – a joyful blend of sunshine, picnics, and unforgettable performances!
Group discount available for parties of six or more, a fantastic way to enjoy a summer treat together.
Your ticket includes FREE access to our beautiful gardens two hours before the show, so you can relax, explore, and soak up the atmosphere before the curtain rises. Don’t miss this chance to make magical memories under the open sky!
Plough Youth Theatre takes the stage!
Our talented young performers are ready to shine this July, with a series of fantastic productions bursting with creativity, energy, and passion. Join us for:
Wednesday 2nd July, 11:30am –Trouble at the Plough 2: Revenge of the Villains (Pathfield School & PYT)
Please note, a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings
Our Box Office opens Friday to Saturday 10am - 4pm & 6.30pm - close. Our Cafe | Bar | Bistro is open Weds-Sat from 10am - 2.30pm and for evening events - please call 01805 625925 for details.
For details of the below events and more go to: theploughartscentre.org.uk 01/07
additional needs
Twelfth Night (PYT Seniors) in the Open Air at Castle Hill 1646!
Friday 18th July 7pm & Saturday 19th July 2pm – Peter Pan (PYT Juniors)
These shows promise laughter, emotion, and a showcase of incredible youth talent. Come and support the future of theatre!
PHILIP W TAYLOR
or 07766 714503 Email: philipwardtaylor@outlook.com
10:30am The Plough Arts Centre Prism Drama – Workshop for adults with additional needs
1:15pm The Plough Arts Centre Motion Dance – Workshop for adults with additional needs
10:30am The Plough Arts Centre Workshop: Plough Writers
7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Music - Acoustic: Barney Kenny 8pm The Plough Arts Centre Comedy: Dylan Moran & Support 07/07
7:30pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Workshop: Ploughcappella with Rosa Rebecka 08/07
10:30am The Plough Arts Centre Prism Drama – Workshop for adults with
1:15pm The Plough Arts Centre Motion Dance – Workshop for adults with additional needs
6:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Workshop: Sacred Drum Circle with Zara Tricconet 10/07
7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Bygone Brothel Tour 11/07
7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Music - Acoustic: Chris Murphy 14/07
7:30pm The Gallery at The Plough Arts Centre Workshop: Ploughcappella with Rosa Rebecka 18/07 2pmThe Plough Arts Centre Film: Ocean with David Attenborough (PG) 23/07
7:30pm ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Haunted History Tour: Barnstaple Riverside Tales Haunted History Tour 25/07
2pm The Plough Arts Centre Film: 42nd Street: The Musical (PG)
7:30pm The Plough Arts Centre Music: The Unravelling Wilburys 26/07
10am ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Green Man Pottery Workshop 10am ThePlough@StAnne's, Barnstaple Workshop - Visual Arts: Seascape in
Beaford Village Hall Market, Café & Tabletop Sale
Held on the second Saturday of each month 10am-1pm.
Grab yourselves a hot drink and a breakfast roll and see what we have to offer.
The stalls vary each month, but we regularly have M & E Family Farm produce, fresh bread, handcrafted gifts, delicious preserves, Linda’s handmade cards, cake and Sam’s household stall and others.
Free car park. Disabled access and parking, books and jigsaw borrowing area.
If you’d like a stall, either in the hall or outside; please email elliepearce.77@ icloud.com. Visit our website for all our events www.beafordvillagehall.com.
Acrylics
8pmT he Plough Arts Centre Music: Green Haze
Eight stone-built holidays cottages • Pretty countryside open gardens setting• Comfortably priced • 1-5 bedrooms • Spacious indoors & out • Somewhere for everyone to enjoy. couples, families, family celebrations • Outdoor summer pool, small animal farm, games room, playroom, fast wi-fi.
Torridge House Cottages, Little Torrington 07807 698 224 • www.torridgehouse.co.uk
This month we are delighted to share more work experience reviews from our wonderful Year 10 cohort!
Work experience review: A&J Opticians
Iam very thankful I got to spend my work experience week in an extraordinarily welcoming office environment at A&J Opticians; learning the details and getting experience of what will hopefully be my future career. All staff gave me many things to try, experiencing their separate roles in the opticians. I enjoyed my whole experience with this lovely work-place and some of my highlights of the week included; when I was working with the dispensing optician to fix people’s broken glasses they had brought into the practise and inserting the new lenses into the chosen frames, while also working with him I enjoyed re-organising and cleaning the glasses in the displays. When working with the receptionist I enjoyed ordering the lenses people needed, double, even triple checking the measurements to make sure they were inputted correctly before ordering. I also really enjoyed learning from James (one of the owners of the opticians). One of the highlights being using a microscope to look into another worker’s eye (with his permission of course). It was so interesting to be able to see the parts of the eye in such detail first hand.
One of the parts that challenged me the most was the hours I worked. Them being longer than my usual school hours I found it very tiring to be concentrating
the few extra hours I was at the practice but that is to no fault theirs. I cannot think off any way they could have improved my experience, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
While being at this placement I developed my people skills and confidence having it be my first job working alongside adults and in a professional work setting. When developing those skills it has also given me very a pleasant introduction to the working environment I would like to be employed by in the future.
Emily Ovenell
Work Experience Review Newton Tracey Primary School
When I found out I’d be doing my work experience at my old school, Horwood and Newton Tracey Primary School, I expected some quiet colouring and a rest…what I actually got was a whirlwind of energy, endless questions and more pictures drawn for me than I thought humanely possible.
I won’t lie; I was quite nervous on the first day. I didn’t really know what to expect from it all and I wasn’t sure how the kids would react to me being there. But I was soon put at ease after a few friendly chats with some of my old teachers – it
was strange being on the other side of the desk and talking to the people, who had taught me. I was able to spend time in each of the classrooms throughout the week. Each day was packed with activity – I helped set up classrooms, listened to students read and helped small groups with their work. A definite highlight was the amazing pictures drawn for me by a few of the students – colourful masterpieces that I have proudly kept. By the end of the week, I’d learnt more than just how to survive a classroom full of 7-year-olds. My social skills have improved – I was chatting to teachers, helping kids and hopefully sounding as if I knew what I was doing. Looking back, I enjoyed the week a lot more than I thought I would. As much as it was challenging, it was also surprisingly wholesome. I gained confidence, patience and a lot of respect for the people who manage to teach, entertain and herd a group of 30 children at once. I may not be planning on a teaching career just yet, but I have definitely learned a lot.
Evie Williams
My
Work-Experience: RL, RT &
For my work-experience I went to a farm, one of my favourite places to be. I worked with some amazing people: the types of people who could do it without questioning anything. I worked with RL,RT&DE HILL where they taught me a mixture of things that included:
· Fencing
· Lambing (by myself and assisting)
· Treatments
· Farm management skills
· Farm hygiene
Their farms are primarily sheep with a big fencing company as well. Most of my work experience was outside on the fields whether it was helping with outdoor lambing or whether it was fencing the new fields ready for the sheep to move into. While we weren’t doing those things, it was making sure the farm was as hygienic as possible.
The things I enjoyed the most about my work experience were communication, responsibility, and hard work. The communication with not only the people around but also with the animals, understanding each other and being sympathetic. The responsibility when I was in control of helping the newborn lambs or when moving the sheep from field to field with help. The hard work and the sense of accomplishment when sitting in the tractor and just watching the lambs play around on the open fields.
There wasn’t anything that was difficult. I enjoyed my work experience so much,
DE HILL
it made it so easy, all of it. I don’t think I stopped laughing, I don’t think I ever wasn’t smiling. The long hours and exercise only made me appreciate the farmers we have more, which made it even more worthwhile.
To make work experience better, school could have done more writing on paper or do more photos rather than online on Grofar as it wasn’t very captivating and made a lot of year 10s not want to use it. One other thing the school could have done to improve work experience is to send more people out to see the year 10s rather than having to wait for one person to turn up as for me it put the work schedule back further in the day as we had to wait, which meant we had to do some things in the dark.
Some skills that I have enabled are to drive specific farm vehicles like the tractor or the farms quad bikes. Another 2 skills that I have acquired are how to inoculate and castrate. Inoculating the sheep that were unwell and castrating the new ram lambs that then turned into whether lambs afterwards. All these skills were developed through my work experience as I kept and kept practicing them until I am like I am now doing it
confidently. My work experience will help my future as it has helped me realize what I love, appreciate and will put my heart and soul into helping others and not just myself. Farming for my work experience has really helped me decide what I want to do for a collage course which is Duchy’s T LEVEL IN LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION (AGRICULTURE). My work experience has really helped me decide my next few steps in life, in farming, breeding, safety, raising and all the important parts of animal farming. But it has also taught me the farming fields part as well as part of fencing but also now with grass cutting and much spreading. Would always recommend work experience.
Chloe Newell
Torrington in Bloom
July is here and Torrington in Bloom has a full diary of events, not least our Open Gardens Day on Sunday, 20th July. In fact, you have probably already seen the signs around the town, and tickets are now available from Duffy’s Home Hardware and Whiskers Pet Centre; at £5 per person (children free), visitors will have a very economical day out: we have 14 gardens opening their gates for us. These gardens are varied in shape, size and aspect and should suit all tastes: from those of you who like bright bedding displays, to perennial borders, vegetable plots or the informal, wildlife friendly garden. The gardens will be open from 10am4pm, and if you haven’t bought a ticket in advance they can be purchased on the day from the Community Garden, entrance via the side wall in South Street car park. The Fork ‘n Feast café will also be open for refreshments. Monies raised are being divided evenly between Torrington Rotary Club and Torrington in Bloom. Another important date for Torrington is the judging of our ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries in the South West in Bloom competition. The judge will be visiting the town on Wednesday 9th July, so please help our members to keep the town looking neat and tidy for the day. Some of the areas include the Swimming Pool, Rack Park, Secret Memorial Garden, flowerbed by S&G Carpets, the Community Garden and the Town Planters. Also being judged will be two ‘Best Business’ entries, Kitch ‘n Cupboard and Fine Floral Design. The Jubilee Wood project and Rack Park are also being judged in the ‘Best Park' category, so our judge is going to be very busy! We are also pleased to report that two of the bird boxes placed in Rack Park now have occupants, which is great news. Also, the meadow area has germinated well and now we’ve had some rain, should be growing on strongly. Annoyingly, there has been further vandalism in the park, where someone has either fallen or jumped into one of the beds, severely damaging some shrubs and some plants were also pulled up – it’s all very childish and disappointing for those who work extremely hard to keep Rack Park looking good all year round.
Lastly, the Secret Memorial Garden had a delivery of delicious compost (for the plants, of course!) courtesy of Glen Bealey and we would like to thank him very much for his kindness and help.
Cherry Hammon
Torrington in Bloom, 01805 625788
Little Torrington WI
June’s meeting was hands-on
CPR training with paramedic Ryan Ware. An excellent and informative evening. The national WI resolution for 2025 is ‘Bystanders can be life savers’, an excellent start to the national campaign at local level. July’s speaker will be Tom Humphreys, from North Devon Biosphere. The Taw and Torridge River Champions, have continued to raise awareness of the plight of our local rivers. With continued monitoring of river phosphates, nitrates and turbidity, along with a survey of the wildlife and levels of litter and pollution. The WI national AGM was held online on the 4th June, with Sally Ramsden representing our local group of WIs in voting matters. In the general meeting the speakers were Angel Strawbridge from Escape to the Chateau, and ceramicist Emma Bridgewater. The meeting was very upbeat, the WI is growing with 22,000 new members, 59 new WIs forming in the last year. The coffee morning in WI member Mary Cobbledick’s beautiful garden, to raise funds for the Globe Hotel project in Great Torrington, raised £111. The book group will be meeting on the third Monday of the month. They are currently reading ‘The Midnight Library’, by Matt Haig.
If any of the above sounds of interest, please contact Jen Hood 01805 622433.
Property Market Musings…
To renovate, or not to renovate a property.
Making the decision to take on a renovation project is a huge challenge and commitment and should not be taken lightly. We reveal a few things to consider before you delve into a big home renovation.
Fail to prepare, prepare to fail Renovations are daunting, and so creating your own detailed schedule, with sections for each room e.g. ‘loft conversion’ will help massively. In each section, write time frames and assign job roles to ensure no jobs overlap or conflict with each other.
When working on a big task, it’s always easier to take it one step at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Without a detailed plan of action, the whole process becomes hectic and stressful. It’s normal to miss deadlines but do your best to make a schedule and stick to it!
Budget for additional costs
Home renovation projects tend never to be simple and rarely go exactly to plan. You will save yourself a lot of time and energy by pre-empting these potential pitfalls along the way. For example, old buildings will most likely require new electrics.
According to Homebuilding and Renovating, rewiring a typical threebedroom terrace measuring around 100m² will cost between £2,500-£3,000, adding a modern heating system to a typical house will cost around £2,5005,000 and a new roof can cost about £2,000-£3,000 for a typical threebedroom house.
Who are you renovating for?
People renovate for different reasons, whether it is to increase the value of your property, restore an old or derelict property or enhance your return on investment, everyone has their own goal in mind. Renovating for you and your family to live in the home, to rent your property or to sell your home, tailor the renovation to meet your goal. However,
Promising Start for Torrington’s New Baseball Team
Since our first report in The Crier in April, the Torrington Riptides – the town’s new baseball team – has grown considerably, and we continue to go from strength-to-strength.
We are still welcoming new members to our diverse club. We have men and women playing for us, with ages ranging from 16 years old to 56 and at least one player in each decade in between. We have in the team a husband and wife, a father and son, and a father and daughter – so if you fancy joining us, you can bring the family along too if any of them are interested.
We’re a very new club. All but three of our members have never played baseball before, and our focus this year has been on learning the game and developing our core skills – from batting to fielding to pitching. We find victories in every achievement in every game – each run, strikeout or fielding play is another sign that we are constantly improving.
Our training sessions (Thursdays, 6.30-8.30pm) and home games are at Great Torrington School. If you’re curious to see what a baseball game looks like, come along and support us. Games start at noon – bring a chair, some refreshments and some sunscreen (we’ve been lucky with the weather so far). You can also follow us on our new website, www.torringtonriptides.co.uk – or search for us on Facebook. Our remaining games this year are:
6th July - Newton Abbot Brewers (home)
20th July - Taunton Pistols (friendly) (home)
27th July - Cornish Pioneers (away)
If you’d like to support our growing team, we would love to find a local sponsor or two. Our players currently pay for their training sessions and matches, which helps cover some of the costs of venue hire and equipment, and there’s no doubt that some additional funding would really help us on the road to success. To join or sponsor the team, email Jess Cooper at torringtonriptides@gmail.com.
even if you are renovating for yourself, think longterm and make sure that the decisions you make will not have a negative impact when you eventually decide to sell your home. Be realistic
Nothing ever goes perfectly, and renovation deadlines are almost always extended. Remember that you can’t rely on everyone all the time and you’re
probably going to go over budget. It’s all worth it in the end though, and if you remain realistic with your expectations and vision, you’ll be on the path to success.
Adrian Hardwick, Webbers Local Director
Torrington Christian Aid
Torrington Christian Aid
Fundraising Group would like to thank everybody who supported the various Lenten lunches held in the local churches, and a big thank you to the people who provided the meals. These raised a total of £641.90. Many thanks to all the volunteers who helped with our street collection and to all who put money in the collecting boxes in the square during Christian Aid Week, which raised a further £177.78. Many thanks also go to Torrington Methodist Church for raising funds for Christian Aid at their May coffee morning amounting to £293.90.
The final total raised was £1113.58. These funds will help many people across the world to overcome poverty and injustice.
What’s on at RHS Rosemoor
Summer Holidays - The Great Woodland Adventure, 19th July – 31st August
Get hands-on with den building and forest skill workshops, explore a treetrail and enjoy a Robin Hood theatre performance. Or book ahead to join The Woodland Tribe and help build an extraordinary Adventure Castle! Vintage Weekend 26th – 27th July
Travel back in time and admire an eclectic selection of classic and vintage vehicles, try 1950’s swing dancing, listen to live music and get glam while you explore the vintage emporium.
Pause for Thought
“Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me”. Do you recognise that saying? Perhaps you have said it yourself. It’s true sticks and stones do have the ability to break bones, but words will never hurt me is the biggest lie ever spoken. Words can have a devastating effect on our lives that can last for years and influence the way we view ourselves. My friend says words are like toothpaste, once they are out of the tube you can't get them back.
I wonder what has been said to you over the years. Things like “you’re just like your father, you’ll never amount to much, or “look at your sister, why can't you be more like her?”, or “there's no point even trying you’ll never be able to do it”. These things are cruel and hurt us deeply, especially if spoken by a parent, grandparent or teacher. I wonder how many have given up before they had even started because of a cruel word spoken to them. It takes several positive words to overcome a negative one, it doesn't happen overnight, but you can lessen the effect of deepseated lies spoken to you, no matter how long ago it happened. Recognise what was said to you wasn't true, no matter who said it and start reminding yourself that you are who you say you are, not someone else's flawed opinion.
In the book of James, the Bible has a lot to say about our tongues, likening it to a rudder which controls a huge ship, or a bit in the mouth of a horse with which we can control the animal. A spark can start a huge forest fire, a careless word out of your mouth can do that. We can turn harmony to chaos or throw mud on a reputation. Blessings and curses come out of the same mouth! So how do we tame our tongue? Maybe listen twice and speak once, after all we do have two ears and one mouth!
Jesus said, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free”, (John ch 8 v 32). So why not begin today and say something positive and encouraging to your family and friends, it will make a huge difference to them and to you as well. If you would like to know more about Jesus and His teachings, visit a local Church or call Trish 07866 861 156 or Karen 07890 132 081. God Bless.
North Devon Choral Society
Saturday 5th July 2025 7.30pm Christ Church, Braunton
North Devon’s summer concert will include Stanford’s stirring ‘Songs of the Sea’ – five songs including the well-known Drake’s Drum. We will also be singing songs by Vaughan Williams and Dyson, and Andrew Carter’s melodic ‘Horizons’.
Conducted by John Hobbs, with professional soloists Lisa Moffat and Tim Mirfin, details of tickets are on our website www.northdevonchoral.org.
lthough I said last year was the last, due to requests, I am prepared to offer all four walks again this summer, but this really will be the last year! There are three walks in the actual village, and the fourth to Berry Castle. Weare Giffard’s history spans millennia: men, women and children were here from 12,000 years ago (flints found at Annery Kiln) and it is not just a sleepy, rural, agricultural and pretty village – we have, for example, a surprising rich and diverse industrial history. All walks start at 2.30pm, maximum distance is half mile out, and half a mile back.
1. Sunday 6th July - Parish Church to the Old Corn Mill
2. Sunday 20th July - The Old Corn Mill to Chopes Bridge
3. Sunday 10th August - Annery Kiln Area (will not include the Sea Lock)
4. Sunday 31st August - Berry Castle, Iron Age ‘Hillfort’/Settlement. Prior registration is essential. These short walks are open to all and each lasts around two hours. There will be a small donation of £5 per head, children free, towards Weare Giffard History Projects. I would ask anyone who would like to attend one or more of these walks, to ring or email me expressing a firm interest. Fee when registering please, (or no later than a month ahead of each walk). Further details re. parking etc. to those registering.
The Stumpery, found at RHS Garden Rosemoor, Great Torrington, is an interesting and surprising area!
Following a path that leads through old stumps, you will find many interesting ferns, including one of my favourites, Blechnum novae-zelandiae (kiokio fern).
This fern’s origins are set in New Zealand. It copes with our cold winters, dying down in the autumn and staying dormant under the ground through the winter. In spring, it reappears, growing fresh new leaves known as fronds. Ferns are ancient plants dating back to the Carboniferous period. They reproduce by spores and were doing this long before the evolution of flowering plants producing seeds. Fern fronds are where the spores are located. Blechnum novae-zelandiae is what is known as a ‘dimorphic’ fern. This means it has two remarkably different looking fronds with varied purposes. The usual looking fronds are present but do not show the existence of spores. Their sole aim is to use chlorophyl within, to feed the plant through sunshine. The strange looking thin fronds in comparison, holds the spores, and this is their main purpose. The quirky appearance of this fern is very ornamental on closer inspection.
Ferns really are an overlooked plant but are a valuable addition to any garden, especially where there are pockets of full, dappled, or partial shade. They offer an array of different shades of green, interesting forms and they soften plantings with their architectural grace. Why not visit Rosemoor and discover the Stumpery for yourself and enjoy the world of ferns!
Please ring or email Keith Hughes 01237 475168, keith_willows@talktalk. net (note underscore). If out do please leave your name and tel contact, plus the walk(s) number you are wishing to attend, and I will get back to you. Spaces will be limited to 20 on each walk. I look forward to welcoming you to the fascinating history of Weare Giffard.
Welcome to Active Torridge
We manage the local pools Torridge, Torrington & Holsworthy. Our friendly & welcoming centres offer something for everyone in the local community. With great value memberships on offer or PAYG we will ensure you reach your goals & enjoy the journey. Come & join one of our Group Exercise classes: We offer something for everyone, from Aquafit to Pilates, all ages & abilities welcome. For more information, please see our website www.activetorridge.co.uk & select your chosen centre.
Email hello@activetorridge.co.uk with any enquiries.
Penny King, Horticulturist Stumpery RHS Penny King
