FREE November 2026 The Crier is produced 10 times a year on behalf of the community, by The Crier Community Interest Company. 5900 copies are distributed throughout Great Torrington and the rural district.
Delivering care in the local area for nearly 30 years with a team with extensive training, but most of all bringing a friendly smile to your day. All clients are introduced to their carers and supported by management. Compassionate support & care, For a friendly chat regarding care, or to join our amazing team: expertly delivered in your own home 01271 445940 in Torrington, Barnstaple & ✉ sharon@trustedcaresw.co.uk South Molton
��
1
2
Read The Crier Online
Torrington & District Community News & Events
Contact us... Editorial Enquiries: Becky Huxtable, 07443 491 972 E: torrington.crier@gmail.com Copy deadline: Second Thursday of each month, 12 noon. We prefer all submissions and enquiries to the email above but handwritten articles can still be handed in at the Library. All articles are subject to editing, particularly those over 300 words, it is not possible to inform contributors of this prior to publication. Submission does not guarantee publication. Advertising/Accounts: Esther Williams, 07912 693 858 E: torrington.crieradverts@gmail.com Costs & sizes: Small advert: 9cm wide x 5cm deep, £28 per issue. Large advert: 19cm wide x 5cm deep, £54 per issue. 10% discount for a run of five adverts. All adverts are accepted in good faith. Single adverts to be paid in advance, please. Postal address: The Crier, Castle Hill, Torrington, EX38 8AA. Website: www.great-torringtoncrier.co.uk Proof reading: Sam Williams Town Distribution: Esther Williams Rural Distribution: Torrington Library & the community Printers: Hedgerow Print, Crediton
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. Anyone using the information provided by The Crier, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Crier from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use. The Crier does not endorse or recommend any product, service or information found within said articles. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to The Crier belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Crier or its team. Website links from The Crier or its website are provided for convenience only. The Crier is not responsible for the content or availability of any external or 3rd party sites and does not warrant or guarantee the products, services, or information found on these sites.
YOUR LOCAL GYM Run BY the local community, FOR the local community
Deep Tissue Laser Therapy for People and Animals Reduces pain and inflammation, treats sprains, strains and arthritis, and accelerates wound healing Fast, safe, painless treatment Visit: www.janejoneslasertherapy.co.uk Call: 07876 788 999
Treadmills, Bikes, X trainer, Rower, cable cross machines, multi gym, free weights and much more. A not-for-profit business Registered Charity No. 1002372
On the A386 between Hatherleigh and Torrington 24 hour access Ample free parking No joining fee Flexible membership options
The Gym @ Merton, The Clinton Hall, Merton EX20 3EQ info@clintonhallmerton.co.uk 01805 603300
3
St Michael’s Church Christmas Fair Saturday 14 November
C
ome and join us at St Michael’s Church on Saturday 14 November, from 10am–2pm, for our wonderful Christmas Fair! There will be lots of fabulous stalls to browse, plenty of tasty treats to enjoy and, of course, some early Christmas spirit in our beautiful church. Of course, no St Michael’s Christmas Fair would be complete without our tasty Holy Hot Dogs! Fr Steve will be serving up his delicious hot dogs, so do come along and enjoy one! Whether you’re looking for some early Christmas shopping, a tasty treat, or simply a chance to meet friends and enjoy a very warm welcome, we would love to see you. St Michael’s 100 Club Why not join our St Michael’s 100 Club? It’s a great way to have a little fun while helping to raise valuable funds for our Church. The draw takes place every month at our Pancakes and Coffee morning on the last Saturday of the month, so there is always the excitement of seeing who our lucky winners will be! Tickets can be purchased from Andrew on 07814 766 161. Support St Michael’s with Easyfundraising Did you know that you can raise funds for St Michael’s simply by doing your
4
Remembering Richard Rumbold
W
e mark with deep respect and sadness the passing of Richard Rumbold, who served the Great Torrington Town Lands Charity with unwavering dedication from February 2005 to August 2026. Over more than twentyone years, Richard became a central figure in the charity’s modern history as a trusted colleague whose commitment never wavered. Richard served as Chair on several occasions, guiding the charity through periods of change with calm judgement, good humour, and a genuine care for the people of Torrington. He approached every challenge with positivity and determination, always asking what would best serve the town, the community, and its residents. As a Trustee, one of Richard’s most significant contributions was his role in the Town Hall restoration project. His persistence and vision helped secure the building’s future, overseeing its transfer from the Great Torrington Town Lands Charity to the Great Torrington Town and Community Hall. His work ensured that the Town Hall could continue to serve the community for generations to come. Richard was known for his passion and dedication. He brought steadiness to decision-making and a deep sense of public duty to every aspect of his work. We extend our sincere condolences to his widow Helen, and to all of Richard’s family and friends. His contribution to the charity and to the town will be remembered. everyday online shopping? Getting started is simple. Visit stmichaelstorrington.org.uk/ easyfundraising to sign up for free, with St Michael’s already chosen as your cause. Once you’ve registered, just remember to start your online shopping from the Easyfundraising website or app before heading to your favourite retailer. Whether you’re ordering groceries, booking a holiday or renewing your insurance, your everyday purchases can effortlessly raise vital funds for our church at no extra cost to you. Every little bit makes a difference, so please consider signing up and
supporting St Michael’s in this simple way.
Art on Thursday
D
o you enjoy art and meeting like-minded people? Come along and join our Art Group at the Castle Community Centre Hall in Torrington on the first and third Thursdays of the month, from 12.30– 3.30pm. We will make you very welcome and tell you all about what we do. Your first session is free. For more information, contact Hazel on 01805 623757 or hazel.montgomerie60@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you.
Devon Data Centre & BESS Action Group News
A
s the last leaves of Autumn fall from the stoic oak and the hedgehogs, bats and hazel dormice bed down for hibernation, the Action Group and wider community remain as active as ever in protecting this wildlife, these people, and this land. The past couple of months have seen our campaign capture the nation’s attention, with coverage on BBC Countryfile (World Rivers Day episode, on iPlayer) and a brilliant feature in The Guardian (link on the Action Group Facebook page). The CPRE continue to work hard in representing our cause - if you haven’t yet joined the Army of Objectors please do so, you will receive updates and opportunities to act when Xlinks submit their formal application next year. There have been more peaceful protests at Caddsdown - maintaining an ongoing presence is imperative in keeping this issue frontof-mind for local councillors. We’ve had a couple of great fundraisers in the form of the Ghost in the Machine film screening at the Plough, and the Kahunas and Calypso Jack show at the TV Club on 30 October, courtesy of our brilliant Events team. And there are plenty more opportunities for us to connect, collaborate, and clamour over the coming weeks… Help plan our protest march! Date still TBC at the time of writing but, by popular demand, a protest march is in the works. Planning such an event is a considerable undertaking and the Action Group is looking for volunteers to help bring the idea to life. If organised disruption is your bag, please email actiongroupsteeringcommittee@gmail. com to get involved!
November. To get involved, please contact actiongroupsteeringcommittee@gmail. com. Torridge District Council meeting protest
The next instalment in our series of peaceful protests at council meetings is imminent. It’s important we maintain a strong presence in front of decision makers so please, bring your placards and your camaraderie and join the action! 2 November, 5.30pm, Caddsdown Business Support Centre, Bideford. Benefit event - music, art & words
We are delighted to welcome the genre-bending musical stylings of Echo Town to Great Torrington! The southwest-based duo have performed across the UK festival circuit, from Boomtown to Glastonbury, as well as European Support our Archaeology team! venues and events including the The archaeology team are appealing Montreux Jazz Festival. for volunteers to collect photos and There will also be an exhibition of evidence to support documents they are the artworks collected by the Art Action collating. A training session will be held in Group, and spoken word performances
Get involved! • • •
Join the CPRE’s Army of Objectors, our official campaign, for updates and information Sign Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin’s petition Fund our campaign
www.nodevondatacentre.co.uk Facebook.com/ DevonDataAndBESSActionGroup/ actiongroupsteeringcommittee@gmail. com
- all inspired by our precious landscape. £10 suggested donation. 7 November, 12 noon, St Michael & All Angels Church, Great Torrington. Castle Hill Creatives Christmas Art and Craft show The Action Group will have a table at the show. If you have any questions or feedback, please stop by for a chat, especially if you’re feeling out of the loop with all this - the team will be happy to bring you up to speed! 14 November, 10am-4pm, Castle Community Hall, Great Torrington. Kyla Manenti
5
‘Torrington and Its History’ Charity Donation
O
n 6 October, I presented a cheque for £1,500 to Children’s Hospice South West to support its wonderful work with children who have terminal illnesses. The money was raised through sales of my latest book, ‘Torrington and Its History’. I would like to thank everyone who has bought a copy, as well as the people in Torrington who readily agreed to sell my books: Duffy’s Home Hardware, Torrington Jewellers and Collectability, along with Torrington Library. Copies are still available at the three shops if you are looking for Christmas present ideas. Thank you also to the Crier for publicising my book each month this year. Happy Christmas to you all. Moira Brewer
Tarka Valley Railway News
W
here did the summer go? It was certainly a busy one at TVR with weekly brake van rides every Thursday during the school holidays which proved to be extremely popular. We are planning more brake van rides on the Thursday of half term week. We also celebrated the centenary of the Atlantic Coast Express with passenger rides on our 143 as well as on the brake van and there was a museum display in the carriage with historical information. Plans are now well advanced for our Halloween running day on Saturday 31 October from 10am-4pm. Join us for a fun filled time for the whole family and travel on board our spooky ghost train if you dare! We look forward to seeing you there. Frequent updates and photographs can be found on our Facebook page showing how our various projects are moving forward. Please also visit our website www. tarkavalleyrailway.org for much more information on our history, rolling stock, and our schedule of open events for the rest of the year. We are also on Instagram tarkavalleyrailway where news is regularly posted. Robert Martin, Tarka Valley Railway
6
The Torrington Players Present A Christmas Cracker!
A
n evening of music, laughter and festive fun in this celebration of Christmas past and present. A selection box of sketches, songs, readings and even a potted panto… Oh yes, there is! With Players old and new (and even a couple of old Fannys we enticed out of their rest homes!). There will be mulled wine and mince pies - and a bar! Great Torrington Town Hall Friday 11 and Saturday 12 December, 7.30pm. Tickets: £12. On sale from 30 October at Whiskers Pet Centre and Duffy’s Hardware. The best show in town this Christmas—you’ll be sorry to miss it!
Great Torrington Raft Race
W
e are looking to hold a homemade raft race on the River Torridge and would like to know whether there is enough interest in the community. If you are interested, please email mlb-rotary@ hotmail.com or phone or text 07802 516650. If there is enough interest, we will provide more information at a later date. Martyn Butler
7
Commons News
A
s autumn marches towards winter, the effects of the hot, dry summer on the Commons are still to be seen. Many of the trees started to lose their leaves very early, and now the rest are changing colours and dropping, and a few autumn storms will make everywhere look very different. The butterflies and moths have done well this year, and the distinctive hummingbird hawk-moths are still to be seen hovering around the remaining red valerian flowers. These are becoming more common in the UK as the climate warms up, but they are still very unlikely to survive our winter, and a new cohort will migrate from southern Europe next spring. This is a good time of year to look out for fungi. Big grey clouded funnel mushrooms are very common on the path edges. Or you might spot the bright red caps of fly agaric with their distinctive white spots. Pretty little purple amethyst deceivers can be found in the woods, or multi-coloured waxcaps on the meadows. As the season progresses bright red scarlet elf cups pop up in the wooded areas to brighten up the darker days. We know that most people who use the Commons are responsible and love the area as much as we do. Unfortunately, we have had a spate of anti-social behaviour recently. Motor vehicles, including motorbikes, are not allowed on any areas beyond the designated car parks. Some people have been riding at speed along the footpaths. This is dangerous and illegal, and the police are involved. If you witness this, please report it as soon as possible directly to the police via the Devon & Cornwall Police website, as well as to us via our Facebook page or email clerk@ torringtoncommons.org. Mandy Harrison – Conservator
Local Initiative - Torrington Commons 365 Supporters Group
H
elp us to maintain our beautiful Commons! To become a Supporter, we ask that you donate £2 per month, or £24 per year. By supporting our Commons, there is also potential to support our local shops, many of whom offer a discount to 365 Supporters. All funds are churned back into the upkeep of the Commons. Whilst our current scheme continues to grow, we are happy to have many more new members sign up. Interested? You can sign up online by visiting GTCC’s website www.torringtoncommons.org and navigate to the 365 Supporters page, where you can pick an option and sign up. Alternatively, email the Chair @andrew.giles@torringtoncommons.org, or phone/text 07956 366 390 and we will arrange for an application form to be provided.
8
Rangers’ Ramblings
A
utumn is now the time to start clearing on the common, priority is the magnificent views from the top of Castle Hill, top of Mill Street and the Golf Course, just to name a few. The biggest problem we've got is young sycamore, which grows fast, also brambles and other scrub. If anyone walks the top of Castle Hill to Caynton House, you will see how much we have cleared and how much better the views are, this clearing also doubles as a firebreak. Anyone who has walked Rolle Road recently will also notice the clearing on the riverbank by Ladywash, opening up the views to the river, we intend to do the riverbank clearing in sections, as it is very time-consuming and other jobs need doing as well. Anyone who has walked Commons Lake Path will have noticed the Commons Lake is drying up; this is intentional as we need to get in the lake and remove the rubbish that has been thrown in. There are also a lot of the trees around the lake which are going to be thinned out. The leaves from the existing trees are falling into the lake and rotting away which is killing all wildlife in the water. Al Mitchell - Ranger
Torrington Memory Cafe
T
orrington 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.
Meadow Farm Pork Local farming family, pig herd established 1972 Delicious pork at great everyday price Freezer packs to suit your needs Ring 01805 601232 or message 07773385788 for details or to place order
Dig the Castle
T
he BIG DIG 2026 was a huge success, with hundreds of schoolchildren joining our bespoke education programme. We loved their imaginative castle designs, featuring laser cannons, chandeliers for horses and colourful flags. We also welcomed Torri Youth, a home-school group and charities for special sessions. Archaeologists and experts travelled from the USA, France and Norway to take part and spread the word about our town. Arcadis Consulting returned, Norman reenactors braved the rain, and our artist in residence created paintings for a Dig the Castle exhibition next year. Our thanks go to the Archaeologists Engage team and Community Board, whose teamwork makes this huge project possible. We also thank Mayor Dave Parish, Martyn Butler of Rotary, Bowling Club chair Fred Niven, and county councillor Cheryl and her family for supporting and joining the dig. The archaeology continues to grow more exciting. Beneath 17th–18thcentury levelling material, we found further collapsed and destroyed medieval buildings and a castle ditch parallel to last year’s ditch and palisade, revealing multiple defensive structures. Castle demolition layers produced
Update From the Torrington Cavaliers
T
he Torrington Cavaliers have had a busy summer constructing our latest big burn - the White House. This charity event will take place on Saturday 28 August 2027, raising money for the North Devon Hospice, North Devon Against Domestic Abuse, ChemoHero, and Dementia UK. In the run-up to burn night, we also hope to organise a programme of American-themed activities, including drive-in film screenings, a vintage weekend and themed dances. Some members of the community have asked whether we could change the theme from the White House to a “data centre” as a protest against the widely publicised proposal. Others have suggested displaying banners or flags on the bonfire. We respect the reasons behind these requests. However, we do not want the bonfire to become part of a protest campaign. It is being built to entertain the community and raise as much money as possible for charities and local good causes. This does not mean that we support the proposed data centre or battery energy storage system (BESS). We do not. Like many others, we recognise the potential negative effects these proposals could have on our community and the surrounding countryside. Alongside our work on the White House, we will also be organising our annual Guy Fawkes show at Torrington Rugby Club. This small bonfire and fireworks display will be on Saturday 7 November at 7pm. Gates open at 6pm and the clubhouse will be open to everyone. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. We look forward to welcoming you to both events – events that are focused on community, celebration, charity and FUN! many sherds of 12th–15th-century pottery. Upper layers, dating from the site’s later use as a pleasure garden and bowling green, yielded a child’s whistle, marbles and percussion rifle caps linked to Royal North Devon Yeomanry militia practice around
the 1820s–1840s. Together with documentary research, these finds help us build a fuller picture of the castle’s 1,000-year history. The bowling club gardens have now been restored. This winter, look out for storytelling and castle-building at the library, plus pottery sessions at the museum. Watch this space! Thank you. The Dig Team – Dig the Castle Project Director – Emily Wapshott
GEORGES GARDEN SERVICES General Garden Maintenance Landscaping, Patios, Etc. No job too big or too small Competitive Rates, Free Estimate Trustworthy, Reliable References available
Tel: 07577 748 470 9
Autumn at the Town Hall
A
utumn has rolled in, bringing beautiful misty mornings over the Commons – and we’ve got off to an excellent start at the Town Hall for what looks set to be a wonderfully busy autumn and winter. Supershoes Tea Dance Kicking things off was the fabulous Supershoes Tea Dance, held in aid of Children with Cancer Day. The town went gold to support this very worthy charity – and what an afternoon it was! Our wonderful Knit and Natter ladies won third place for their fabulous decorations in the Undercroft, while we dressed the Hall in its very best. Fine Whines Vintage Jazz once again raised the roof with their incredible music, and Step into Swingtime showed everyone how it’s done on the dance floor. Dancers came from all over Devon to join us, and the afternoon swung in style! Lots of money was raised, and everyone had a thoroughly fabulous time. Supershoes is a charitable organisation dedicated to boosting the wellbeing of children with cancer. They have a shop on Cornmarket Street, so do pop in and say hello! Fine Whines Vintage Jazz – 07970 817 059 Step into Swingtime classes – 07722 321 838 Boozy Lunch On 3 October we hosted our very first Boozy Lunch – and it was a sell-out! It was a great success, helped enormously by our guests, who certainly raised the vibe! Our Rosie produced a marvellous lunch, while we served five different cocktails and a glass of Prosecco. Good food, good music and good cheer all round! Our next Boozy Lunch will have a festive Christmas theme. Keep an eye on Facebook and the posters around town for details and booking information. Christmas Fayre 14 November The town will once again be putting on its festive cloak for the Torrington Christmas Fayre.
10
We are lucky to have so many incredibly talented artists, crafters, food producers and independent businesses locally, and they’ll be coming together in Torrington with their fabulous wares – just in time to get ahead with your Christmas shopping. At the Town Hall, we’ll have stalls in all the rooms, as well as a great raffle. At the time of writing, we still have one or two stalls available, so if you’re interested in taking part, please get in touch. Light Switch-on 28 November The town’s annual Christmas Light Switch-on takes place, with entertainment, festive fun and, of course, the moment when Torrington officially gets into the Christmas spirit! The Council will have further information, but we’ll be open from late afternoon for some Christmas spirit and mulled wine. An Evening with Nikki Kitt Psychic Medium, 2 December, 7.30pm The ever-popular Nikki is back with her evening of mediumship. Tickets always sell fast – so don’t wait! Book directly at psychicmediumnikkikitt.com Harry Pledger & Band 5 December, 7.30pm We are so proud to once again host the incredibly talented Harry Pledger, who returns to the Town Hall with his band for his album launch! Harry will be supported by Violets Grave, with more acts still to be announced. It promises to be an incredible night of live music. The bar will be open, so come along, grab a drink and enjoy what should be a fantastic evening. Tickets: £1.50 in advance / £2 on the door, subject to availability. Torrington Players 11 & 12 December We’ve no idea quite what to tell you
about this performance because, at the moment, it’s all very much under wraps! What we can tell you is that the Torrington Players really know how to bring drama to the Town Hall. So, really, don’t miss out on tickets! Keep watching for more information and we’ll share the details as soon as we know them. Exciting stuff! Cavalier Christmas Giveaway 19 December Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the Cavalier Christmas Giveaway! They’ll be providing their usual festive fun in the Undercroft and outside the Town Hall. Bring your little ones along – this is definitely one not to be missed! Christmas Parties at the Town Hall We still have a couple of slots available for Christmas parties and get-togethers, whether you’re planning a full-blown works party or a simple Christmas lunch with friends in our Oak Room. We’ll dress the place, add a little Christmas magic and help make it a festive occasion to remember! For bookings, events or general enquiries 07944 639 739, admin@ greattorrington-townhall.org. We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Friendly professional lawn mowing and general garden maintenance. Cutting, pruning, planting and weeding. Call or message Matt on: 07808 056 473 or Facebook: Matts-Garden-Services
Hear Well Ear Care Ear wax removal & Syringing Contact Lesley 07508 128088
Garden waste removal and jet washing services also available.
Home visits
They’re Not Just Getting Old – Spotting Arthritis in Pets
A
windowsill, use several smaller jumps to reach somewhere they once reached easily, sleep in different places or become less active. They may also struggle to groom themselves properly, particularly around the back and hindquarters, leading to a scruffier or matted coat. Weight has an important part to play. Carrying excess weight puts additional strain on already painful joints, so keeping pets lean is one of the most useful things we can do for long-term mobility. Exercise is important too, but the aim is usually regular, manageable activity rather than occasional bursts of strenuous exercise. Several steady walks can suit an arthritic dog better than being inactive all week followed by a very long weekend walk. Simple changes around the home can make a surprising difference. Non-slip mats can help on smooth floors, ramps may make getting into the car easier and a supportive bed in a warm, easily accessible place can improve comfort. For cats, providing lower routes to favourite resting places and litter trays with easier access can help preserve independence. If you are worried about your pet’s mobility, a veterinary examination is worthwhile. Treatment is not necessarily just a matter of giving painkillers. Depending on your pet’s needs, management may involve weight control, changes to exercise, physiotherapy or
modifications at home. If medications are felt to be beneficial, your vet will chat through the options available. One important point is that pets do not have to be crying or obviously lame to be in pain. Often the earliest sign is simply that they have stopped doing something they used to enjoy. Getting older is inevitable, but living with untreated discomfort should not be. If your pet is slowing down, it is worth asking whether age is really the whole story. Ruth Ferguson, Brannam Vets
M i & cro Irr su ig ct at io io n n
s the days get shorter and the weather becomes colder and wetter, you may notice that your older pet seems a little less keen to get moving. It is easy to put this down to age, but slowing down is not always something we should simply accept. One common reason is osteoarthritis. Arthritis is a painful condition affecting the joints. It becomes more common as animals get older, although younger pets can also be affected, particularly following an injury or where a joint has developed abnormally. The changes cannot usually be reversed, but there is now a wide range of ways to manage discomfort and help pets remain active and comfortable. In dogs, some signs are fairly obvious. They may be stiff when first getting up, limp after exercise or hesitate before climbing stairs or jumping into the car. Others are much more subtle. A dog may simply walk more slowly, stop wanting to go as far, lag behind on a familiar route or become reluctant to play. Changes in behaviour can also be a clue. A normally friendly pet may become irritable when touched in a particular area, avoid being handled or seem unsettled when trying to get comfortable. Difficulty lying down or repeatedly changing position can sometimes reflect joint pain. Cats often hide discomfort particularly well. Rather than limping, an arthritic cat may stop jumping onto a favourite
Services include: House sitting • Dog walking • Equine care • Emergency cover Contact Isabel on: Tel: 07989 995935 Email: isabelspetsitting@gmx.co.uk Visit: www.isabelspetsitting.co.uk
11
Torrington Active Travel
O
ver many years, there have been a number of attempts to create a cycle path to link the town with the Tarka Trail. Several possible route options have been considered, but none of these have come to fruition. The rationale for this endeavour has always emphasised the considerable benefits to the town economy of drawing some of the many visitors using the Tarka Trail to the town centre to experience Torrington’s rich historical and cultural heritage and make use of the great range of independent retailers and service providers. Of equal significance are the many benefits to Torrington residents of enabling safe access to the Tarka Trail by cycle or mobility scooter without first driving or being driven to a trail car park. Currently there are no safe options for either cyclists or those with restricted mobility to independently access the trail from town. The present situation is especially constraining for our youngsters, who are often discouraged from cycling, either by being told the roads are too dangerous or are remonstrated with for cycling
12
on the pavement. A safe cycling route to the Tarka Trail would liberate our children by providing access to nature, greater autonomy, improved fitness and self-confidence while helping to tackle the physical and mental health issues associated with sedentary lifestyles and excessive screen time. After extensive investigation and trialling a number of route options, Torrington Active Travel now have an outline route design which, with the co-operation of DCC Highways and Torrington Commons Conservators, would be transformative to both the local economy and the well-being, recreational opportunities and sustainable transport options for Torrington residents. The route (see plan) would leave the Tarka Trail through the existing archway which already provides access to Rolle Rd. A right turn links to the (narrow!) footpath adjoining the A386 bridge over the Tarka Trail. Two significant design changes would be required here – adjustments to gradient and curvature where Rolle Rd. meets the roadside footway and creating a wider path over the bridge with a suitable barrier between the path and the carriageway (DCC
Highways have indicated that there is the possibility of re-allocating highway space to allow for this). A new path adjoining the carriageway on Station Hill has already been surveyed in detail by DCC Highways in a 2009 design which never progressed to the construction stage. This route using the highway verge leads to the top of Limers Hill, where the pedestrian refuge creates a crossing point. The path between Woodland Vale and Limers Hill involves a short descent to link with the path which rises at a manageable gradient to Warren Lane. This section of Commons path could be safely adapted to create shared use for both walkers and cyclists by trimming back encroaching vegetation to allow sufficient width for segregated use with appropriate signage to promote respectful behaviours. A level route along Warren Lane and through Rack Park gives access to the top of Mill Street and the town centre. There is space here to create cycle parking for visitors. We would welcome observations on this proposal either through the Great Torrington-Devon-UK or Torrington Active Travel Facebook groups or by email: torringtonactivetravel@gmail.com
Working Together for Great Torrington's Future
G
reat Torrington has a lot going for it. A fantastic history, independent businesses, a thriving arts and cultural scene, beautiful commons and, perhaps most importantly, a community of people who genuinely care about the town. The Great Torrington Regeneration Board was established in 2024 to build on those strengths and help make sure our town continues to be a great place to live, work, visit and do business. The Board brings together people from local organisations, businesses, councils and the wider community with one common aim: to help move Great Torrington forward. Over the past couple of years, we have been involved in a growing number of projects and initiatives across the town. These have included the Tarka the Otter Trail, development of the new Great Torrington website, town branding and marketing, heritage projects, support for community initiatives and work aimed at increasing the vitality of our town centre. Some projects are very visible. Others involve conversations, planning, funding opportunities and bringing the right people together to help turn an idea into something achievable. And there is plenty more we want to explore. We are looking at ways we can improve the appearance and first impression of our town, support and promote our independent businesses, attract more visitors, make better use of what Torrington already has and continue developing projects that give people another reason to spend time here. But regeneration shouldn't just be shaped by the people sitting around a Board table. Some of the best ideas come from people who walk through the town every day, run businesses here, raise their families here, volunteer here or simply see something and think, “Why don't we do that in Torrington?” So, we'd like to hear those ideas too. Perhaps you've seen something work brilliantly in another town. Maybe there's an event you'd love to see here, an improvement you've thought about for years, something we're missing for young people and families, or an idea that could bring more people into Torrington and support our local businesses. It doesn't have to be a huge project. Sometimes a simple idea can make a surprisingly big difference. Not all suggestions can be delivered, but all ideas will be listened to and explored. So, if you've ever thought “Torrington could do with...”, we'd love to hear what comes next. To share an idea, or to find out more about the Great Torrington Regeneration Board, please contact: greattorringtonregenerationcic@gmail.com.
The Victory Hall, Little Torrington Events
Christmas Party on Saturday 12 December, 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 per person and include a three-course meal, followed by an evening of music and dancing. There will also be a licensed bar and raffle. Card payments are available. To book, please call Jen on 01805 622433 or Jackie on 01805 625434. Everyone is welcome! All proceeds will go towards running our community hall. Your support is much appreciated. Breakfast Baps on Saturday 21 November, from 9.30am to 11.30am. Tickets are £5 per person and include a hot drink. Card payments are available. No booking is needed, and everyone is welcome! Please call Jackie on 01805 625434 regarding any food allergies or special dietary requirements.
Greetings from Glen Tor
R
esidents, staff and volunteers would like to send a huge thank you to everyone that attended our Summer Fete and 70th anniversary celebrations this year. It was an absolutely brilliant afternoon filled with laughter and great company. We raised a whopping £560 for our residents’ comforts funds, and I am sure there will be pictures showing how we have spent this coming up in the next few months. We have a Facebook page if you would like to have a look at these pictures under Abbeyfield Torrington. Thank you to everyone who took part in the bake-off. The winners of each category are as follows: Prize winning sponge Dave Kelly; prize winning scones Angie Harper; prize winning sausage rolls Angie Harper; under 12’s favourite prize-winning bake Leighla Evans. Thank you to everyone that donated and also took the time to come along and support us on the day; we really are blessed with great people around us.
Torridge Ramblers
Torridge Ramblers are a friendly group of walkers who originated in Torrington 40 years ago and now walk Torridge, North Devon and occasionally Exmoor and Dartmoor. More information and contact on our website – www.torridgeramblers.co.uk Upcoming walks Saturday 7 November: Bideford/ Abbotsham circular 8 miles Sunday 15 November: Northam/ Bideford 3-4 miles Thursday 19 November: Hartland 4 miles Friday 27 November: Annual dinner
Walking Netball
Starts Monday 2 November 2026 at Torrington Sports Hall from 6.30– 7.30pm. All welcome. Just come along for a taster session if you fancy giving it a go.
13
The Globe Hotel: Moving Forward
T
here is a real sense of momentum at The Globe Hotel as we move from planning and preparation into the next important stage of bringing the building back into use. Following much discussion and detailed due diligence, we are delighted to confirm that we have instructed local builders Jenkinson Potts to carry out essential repairs to the building. These works are an important step towards enabling the ground floor of The Globe to open for community and meanwhile use in late spring 2027, while we continue fundraising. The works will exhaust our current funding, which was secured from the Levelling Up Fund/North Devon Place Board. The work will focus on the essential repairs needed to bring the building safely back into use, while we continue developing our plans for the major refurbishment works that will follow. Alongside this, we are continuing to seek funding for the major works needed to deliver the longer-term vision for The Globe. We have submitted our pre-application for the full refurbishment to the Council. Once we receive the Council’s response, we will create opportunities to present the proposals to shareholders and discuss the plans with them in more detail. Meanwhile Use Coordinator We were delighted with the response to our search for a Meanwhile Use Coordinator. A fantastic number
14
of high-calibre candidates came forward, demonstrating once again the enthusiasm and commitment within the community to seeing The Globe brought back into use. At the time of writing, we are looking forward to interviewing the shortlisted candidates. By the time this article is published, we expect to have made an appointment. Details of the successful candidate and the role will be shared on The Globe website, with further information to follow in next month’s Crier. AGM – 3 November A reminder that our AGM will take place at The Plough on 3 November. The AGM is an important opportunity to hear more about the progress being made at The Globe, the essential works now being planned and our aspirations for the next stage of the project. The AGM is free to attend, but places are limited by the capacity of the auditorium, so please make sure you have a ticket. For anyone unable to attend in person, we are also planning a livestream, with details to be provided nearer the time. Full details and ticket information will be available via The Globe Hotel and The Plough websites. There is still plenty to do, but after years of hard work by the Board, volunteers, shareholders and the wider community, it is exciting to see The Globe moving closer to reopening. The essential repairs are the next step,
while our work continues to secure the funding and permissions needed for the major refurbishment that will follow. We look forward to sharing more with you as the project progresses.
A Day with Gruffalo Granny
Gruffalo Granny is here – such a treat What do you think we should give her to eat? A savoury tart with ants and frogspawn jelly Or do you think that might be a bit too smelly? I know, why not cook her a hearty stew? With rats tails, cockroaches and an onion two? But she might not fancy either of these She might rather have a plate of thick bread and cheese! Come to the Library and join The Gruffalo family along with Granny on Saturday 21st November and find out what she has for her supper There will be two dramatised readings of Julia Donaldson’s latest picture book, the first will be from 10.30-11.00am and the second from 11.15-11.45am. Promoted by the Friends of Torrington Library, the readings are free but it is suggested that you book spaces at the Library beforehand.
Torrington Library News
We have a busy programme of extra events in the library during November: What’s on for Families: Winter Quest is here! From 1 October to 1 March, children can take part in our fun Winter Quest challenge! Pick up a Winter Quest leaflet from the library, complete six activities from the activity grid, earn a star sticker for each activity completed. Collect six stars to receive a certificate and a Libro sticker, plus, you'll be entered into our prize draw! The best part? You can complete the Winter Quest and enter the prize draw as many times as you like throughout the challenge. Pop into the library to pick up your leaflet and start your Winter Quest adventure today! A Morning with Gruffalo Granny! Saturday 21 November, 10.30am– 11am and 11.15am–11.45am The Gruffalo and the Gruffalo’s Child are getting ready for a visit from Gruffalo Granny! Will they get the better of the little brown mouse this time and serve Granny a delicious bowl of mouse stew – or will Mouse manage to outwit them once again? Join us for a fun morning with Julia Donaldson’s latest picture book, Gruffalo Granny. We are running two sessions with the help of some of our Friends. It is free, but please book spaces in the library. What’s on for Adults: From Trees to Books
Friday 6 November, 2–3.30pm Join plant writer Pete Yeo for a guided walk around Torrington Cemetery, meeting a variety of tree-beings, some local to our area, some introduced. Expect inspiring quotes, poems and arboreal book recommendations. Plus lively, knowledgeable conversation about human relationships with trees, plant evolution and intelligence. Meet at the New Street/A386 entrance to the cemetery for a gentle circular walk of around 90 minutes. £2 per person. Please book in the library. Make a Hand-Printed Christmas Card Monday 9 November, 10am–12.30pm Join us for a cosy, festive workshop, creating hand-printed Christmas cards using lino and/or foam printing. All materials are provided; feel free to bring along your own images for inspiration. Please bring an apron, or wear clothes which you don’t mind getting inky! Beginners welcome. £25 per person. Booking essential. Dip Resin Flowers Workshop Monday 23 November, 10am–12.30pm In this workshop you will get to make at least two dip resin flowers that are representative of a daisy. Your tutor, Fiona of Fizz Designs Arts and Crafts, will provide you with the materials and instruction to help make these. Please note the vases are not included in the price but can be purchased on the
day, if required. £20 per person. Booking essential. Wrap Up Campaign Rotary Club of Torrington The coat rail is now in place in the hallway of the building Castle Hill (opposite the Post Office). Coats have already been donated and rehomed to those that need them. Thanks to Torrington Rotary Club for organising this campaign. If you would like to donate clean coats, please come along to the library, put them on the rail in the hall or drop off at The Bickford Centre. Elevenses Saturday 14 and 28 November, 11am Come along to chat about what you’ve been reading, your favourite authors, and general book talk. A free cuppa and cake will be on offer. Open to all. Contact details: Email: torrington.library@ librariesunlimited.org.uk. Telephone: 01805 622107. Follow us on Facebook @TorringtonLibraryDevon and Instagram @torrington.library. Or just pop in! Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity 1170092 Librariesunlimited.org.uk
Torrington Baptist Church Light Lunch
W
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.
15
From Your County Councillor...
T
he campaign against the proposed AI data centre and battery energy storage system (BESS) continues to gather momentum. Our parliamentary petition has reached 39,000 signatures, demonstrating strong feeling locally and nationally. Thank you to everyone who has supported the campaign. However, we still have a long way to reach our target of 100,000 signatures, so please keep signing, sharing and encouraging others to get involved. There is no minimum age requirement to sign, provided you are a UK citizen or resident. Young people’s voices matter greatly because today’s decisions will profoundly affect their future. In late September, I spoke at a University of Exeter workshop examining the sustainability challenges associated with artificial intelligence. The event brought together researchers, policymakers, campaigners and community organisers from across the UK and overseas. I discussed the proposals affecting Great Torrington, our concerns about development on agricultural land within a UNESCO biosphere reserve and its impact on our environment and communities. It was a fascinating and thought-provoking day. Many of the concerns we are raising are shared by communities across the UK and around the world, although this proposal is among the largest. Discussions focused on AI infrastructure’s huge demands on energy, water, land and raw materials, as well as the importance of transparency, proper scrutiny and community involvement in decision-making. We are not fighting this campaign alone; it forms part of a wider network and conversation about AI’s future and impacts. I was also delighted to visit Chulmleigh College after receiving a pupil’s letter about the proposed AI data centre and BESS. The headteacher and head of humanities invited me to meet students and discuss their concerns. Together, we explored practical ways to help inform and involve young people,
16
including geography lessons, site visits, ecological recording, model-making to demonstrate the proposed buildings’ scale, photography, art, letter writing and speaking at council meetings. A major concern was the impact on wildlife and the environment, particularly within a UNESCO biosphere reserve. One pupil said, “It’s our future.” They are right. Decisions of this scale will affect future generations, so young people must be informed and heard. Alongside other local issues, I also raised concerns about the proposed data centre during a recent visit to Lord Patel at the House of Lords, at a meeting with senior Devon County Council leaders. I will continue to take every opportunity to ensure decision-makers know about the proposal and residents’ concerns. Away from the data centre campaign, I spent an afternoon volunteering at the Great Torrington Castle archaeological dig, “Dig the Castle”! Led by professional archaeologists and supported by local volunteers, schools and organisations, this fantastic community project is bringing our history to life. I was pleased to find a pipe and button. At the fantastic family session, we also found artefacts including an old stylus pencil, clay marble, old black glass made in Great Torrington and more pipes. I found it therapeutic and satisfying and might take it up more regularly one day! A huge thank you to Emily Wapshott, John Eeles and all the volunteers, archaeologists and supporters making this wonderful project possible. It was also great to attend Farmwise Devon 2026 at Westpoint at the beginning of October, where more than 1,500 primary school children from over 35 schools enjoyed a handson introduction to farming and food production. From meeting livestock and learning about animal welfare to digging potatoes and milling flour, the event gave children valuable insight into where their food comes from and farming’s vital role in our communities. I know how important it is to inspire the next generation and help young people
understand the opportunities available in agriculture. With farming facing significant challenges, including extreme weather, animal disease outbreaks and economic pressures, it was wonderful to see farmers volunteering to share their knowledge and passion. Supporting our farming community remains a key priority. Ahead of the Chancellor’s Budget, I wrote to call for a full reversal of the family farm tax and a significant increase in the farming budget, ensuring farmers are properly supported to produce food while delivering environmental improvements and caring for our countryside. I have also written to farming ministers about the handling of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), expressing concern about the uncertainty caused to many farm businesses and the need to reopen it as soon as possible with a larger budget, allowing every farm to access appropriate schemes. If the government is serious about food security, nature recovery and climate resilience, it must ensure farmers have the long-term backing they need. I also want to acknowledge the ongoing situation at Bluecoat School. I am very sorry for the uncertainty and disruption affecting the children, families and staff. Before the summer holidays, I visited the school with the leader of Devon County Council and the cabinet member for SEND to better understand its challenges. Through the council leader, I have been seeking additional support for the school. Every child deserves access to a high-quality education in a stable and supportive environment, and I will continue to support efforts to secure the best possible outcomes for local families. Thank you again for your support. Please keep up the good fight and maintain the pressure in any way you can. We have to have hope; without hope, we have nothing. Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin 07495 367801 Cabinet member for rural affairs County councillor for Torrington Rural cheryl.cottle-hunkin@devon.gov.uk Facebook: Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin for Torrington Rural
North Devon Model Show Report 2026
S
unday 16 August 2026 saw the fourth annual North Devon Model Show held at The Park Community School in Barnstaple. This charity event is run by the ‘North Devon Model Society’ with the profits from this year’s show going to our local RNLI stations at Appledore, Ilfracombe and Clovelly. Over the past four years the show has gone from strength-to-strength, expanding in size and variety with this year’s show seeing record attendance and more money raised for the charity than ever before. Over 40 stands across two halls displayed some of the finest models in the region, there was plenty for everyone to see with all genres of modelmaking being represented. The show has now become a firm favourite on the model show circuit, with traders and exhibitors coming from across the UK to display all aspects of model-making. Such is the show’s popularity that visitors from as far away as Halifax are planning their holidays to visit the event! As word is spreading amongst the model-making community, modellers far and wide are choosing to make a weekend of the show and stay in the area boosting our tourism. Everyone appears to be a winner! The morning saw Loki Dawson, Mayor of Barnstaple, visit and be given a tour of the show. Of particular interest to Mayor Dawson was the children’s ‘Make and Take’, allowing children to build and
take home a free model. This is just a small part of an initiative set up by the North Devon Model Society under the banner of ‘Kids & Kits’ which, working with schools and events in North Devon, aims to get children away from screens and into model-making. The feedback from this venture has been startling with parents and teachers finding that children who engage in model-making have become calmer, more focused and have improved concentration. The North Devon Model Society is the first club in the UK to set up this initiative which has been hugely successful. Many children and their parents have taken things further and joined the North Devon Model Society, where they can be part of a wider community to develop their interest in model-making even more. The club’s motto ‘Meet, Build, Share, Learn, Enjoy’ is not only fulfilled at the show, but also at their popular weekly Thursday club nights at Roundswell Community Centre where new members are always welcome. The response the North Devon Model Society has received from the show has been tremendous, with the quality and variety of models on display being universally praised. The two halls full of exceptional models were an inspiration to many visitors who could buy kits from the traders on site to begin their modelmaking journey or add to their collection of models to be built one day… Lunch was provided by some of North
Devon’s finest food outlets; Sugba Station, Garden Box, Rolled Ice Cream and Barnstaple’s own Spud Shack who all did a roaring trade re-fuelling those attending. The show was busy all day and finally came to a close at 4pm, after 670 members of the public had left for home hopefully inspired by what they had seen. A total of £2,400 was raised for our local Lifeboats which will be divided equally between the Appledore, Ilfracombe and Clovelly RNLI Lifeboat Stations who work tirelessly to keep us safe around our beautiful North Devon coastline. If you would like to discover more about the North Devon Model Society and their show visit their website, www. northdevonmodelsociety.co.uk, follow them on Facebook or visit one of their Thursday club nights where you will be warmly welcomed. Plans are already well underway for next year’s show which will be held on Sunday 15 August at The Park Community School and is definitely not to be missed.
17
Tel: 01271 371774 Email: mcbain@live.co.uk Established for over 50 year, McBain Domestic Appliance Repairs, is a family run business based in Fremington, offering first class customer care across North Devon and surrounding areas. Comprehensive repair service for: • Gas Cookers • Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers • • Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers • Cooker Hoods • www.mcbaindomesticappliancerepairs.com
1st Torrington Scouts
T
o finish off our summer term, the Beavers headed to the Ultimate Adventure Centre to have a go at climbing. All our members gave it a good go, with a few brave Beavers making it to the top of the 35ft climbing tower. The Cubs have also been out and about, taking a trip to Westward Ho! for a surfing lesson, with many members managing to stand up on their boards before taking a dip in the sea. The Scouts headed to Westward Ho! to have a go at geocaching, taking a walk around the area, learning facts as they went and even finding a small geocache in which they could write our group name. We also went to the Ultimate Adventure Centre, for its Water Assault Course, as chosen by the Scouts themselves. We all had a great time. We finished the term by taking all three sections to the district Scout campsite for an end-of-term extravaganza, where the Scouts led groups of Beavers and Cubs around a range of activities: including laser tag, frisbee golf, a traversing wall, crazy golf and tunnelling. We finished it all off with cake around the campfire. We definitely ended the term with a bang! It has been a quiet summer, but there are plenty of plans in the pipeline for a superbusy autumn and winter term. Fancy volunteering and helping young people? Contact Jordon by email at jordon.whitear@gmail.com for more information.
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! Taffs Fish & Chips shop providing quality fish & chips since 1958. Thank you for your continued support. 18
Castle Hill Creatives Christmas Art & Craft Fair
Saturday 14 November 2026, 10am–4pm Castle Community Centre, Torrington EX38 8AA astle Hill Creatives is a well-established group of artists and makers known for the high quality of their work. All are locally-based professional artists and much of their work reflects the beauty and distinctive qualities of the local environment. The group’s first event was held in the Autumn of 2020 and there have been two events each year since, held in May and November. A wide variety of art and craft will be on display, all made locally. Ceramics and jewellery will sit alongside glasswork and paintings, print, textiles and sculpture. You will meet the artists and by ‘buying local’ will have something to cherish from your visit. There will be around 20 exhibitors in the Hall and Little Torrington WI will be raising funds by serving tea and coffee, and savoury and sweet food from 11am. We do hope you will be able to join us on what is always a busy day with a great atmosphere. For further information please contact either Gill Hedge on gillhedge@gmail. com (tel: 07792 188128) or Sue Meager on sue.meager@icloud.com (tel: 07834 773944).
C
Torri Youth
Curriculum links: fundraising, creativity and inclusion Friday 6 November – Makaton sign language workshop, 6–8pm. Just a few places remain. Friday 13 November – Rotary Youth Challenge Bingo at TVSC. Doors open at 6.30pm; eyes down at 7.30pm. Friday 20 November – Scouts’ Christmas Fayre table-top sale. Wednesday 25 November – Home Education group, 12–2pm. Friday 27 November – Rotary Youth Challenge Group. Saturday 28 November – Christmas lights switch-on: Rotary Youth Challenge popcorn sales. Torrington Pannier Market Friday 4 December – Christmas craft workshops, 6–8pm. Wednesday 9 December – Home Education group, 12–2pm. Friday 11 December – Christmas crafts, 6–8pm. Friday 18 December – Off-site Christmas trip: ice skating at St John’s, Barnstaple. To be confirmed. £5; own transport required.
The Bickford Centre
W
ould you like friendly company, a comfy chair and tea or coffee and biscuits for £1? Then come in and see us, we cater for more senior members of the community. We serve tea and coffee from 10am-12pm six days a week, but the centre stays open until 4pm so if you need a rest you are welcome. We are situated just below South Street car park, on the opposite side of the street, for those of you who may be new to the town. Maybe you have passed the centre and wondered what it was, come in and give us a try. We also hire out the centre for meetings.
Our “Jerusalem”
And did those feet in ancient times Walk upon Devon’s hills of green, And did a presence so sublime Preserve this calm and tranquil scene. And did the eyes of one Divine Look down upon our fertile land, And bid communities to build here So we must act and take a stand. Bring us the champions to fight, Bring us the words to turn the tide, Bring us some sense to make things right, Let sanity be on our side. We will not cease to guard this land. Our fields and farms, all it will affect, And we will keep North Devon ours – For we will nurture and protect. Stephanie Easton
JAMES WASTE COLLECTION
House Clearance • Office Clearance • Garage Clearance Garden Clearance • Scrap metal clearance For any kind of clearance, please call, text or pm anytime for a no obligation quote. Thank you! Collect from Torrington, Bideford, Barnstaple, & surrounding areas
Contact James on 07714 819 415 Licensed Waste Carrier No: CBDU269392 19
GREAT TORRINGTON Your Council, Working for YOU From the Mayor, Dave Parish
U
nfortunately, I start on a negative note, I have had several complaints from residents about parts of our town being used as a ‘racetrack’ for noisy vehicles. Whilst I can just about remember the joys of youth, it should not come at the cost of disturbing peopl'es lives in our town, or the inherent danger of driving quickly in our narrow streets. The police are aware of the issues. On a wider issue and one that will have a big impact on local services, Local Government Reorganisation has been paused. It will be interesting to see what comes after the pause. This month’s visits started with a visit to Freddie Ware and Miles of Smiles. Freddie and the team provide a fantastic alternative learning space, providing Animal Therapy for young people and adults. Freddie is certainly a force of nature and a success story for our town. September saw our town ‘Go Gold’ in support of Supershoes and children’s cancer charities. Sarah and Ken run this wonderful charity that provides joy to children when they are at their lowest by crafting hand painted shoes in their favourite theme. The gold window
20
dressing competition was a great success; the shops and businesses did us proud with some creative and beautiful displays. This was followed by a sellout fund raising tea dance at our wonderful Town Hall. A big thank you to all who supported this wonderful charity. The 12 September was a date I won’t forget! Wayne Hill and the trainers from the Great Torrington Boxing club combined with Torridgeside Youth to provide a circuit training session at Donnacroft to raise funds for my charities. I managed to get over half-way before having to sit some exercises out as my age and lack of fitness caught up with me. However, it was great to see such a wide variety of people enjoying a morning of well organised exercise in the open air. Everyone really enjoyed the event. Thankyou! A visit to Great Torrington Library was another highlight of the month. I gave out prizes to children who had completed the summer book quest, which is not only about reading during the summer holidays, but a variety of other experiences all organised by the brilliant Kate Cooper and her team. It is so important for young people to continue
to enjoy reading and let their imagination run free in the world of books. A special mention to Chris Thomas – or ‘Crafty Chris’, a volunteer for the library who was recognised by her colleagues for her outstanding service.
CCTV
R
esidents continue to be concerned about antisocial behaviour, particularly antisocial driving around the town. Several reports of antisocial behaviour were made to the Council and the police over the summer. At the time of writing, the Council is pleased to report that the CCTV project is about to enter the installation phase. It is hoped that this phase will be complete by the time of publication. Provided that all signage is in place and the work at the Torridge District Council hub is complete, the CCTV system will be operational. The Council would like to thank all the community groups that have supported the project by giving permission for the cameras to be installed, as well as the members of the community who took part in the consultation.
N TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service
8 November 2026 his year, Remembrance Sunday falls on 8 November. Great Torrington Town Council and our local branch of the Royal British Legion will hold a remembrance ceremony at the War Memorial in the cemetery, commencing at 10.50am. As last year, the parade will assemble in the driveway at Woodland Vale Care Home before proceeding up and across a short stretch of New Street to the cemetery. Please note: There will be NO VEHICULAR ACCESS to Woodland Vale Care Home. LIMITED PARKING will be available at the Old Bowling Green; however, we encourage all participants to walk to the event if they are able to do so. This year, we cannot reuse our old poppy wreaths, as they have now been used for three years. Instead, community groups will need to order their poppy wreaths directly from the Royal British Legion Poppy Shop: www.poppyshop.org.uk or 0300 123 9110. Please let the Town Council know by Wednesday 28 October if you would like to lay a wreath during the service. Wednesday 11 November: Everyone is also welcome to attend a short Armistice Day remembrance service at Great Torrington Cemetery at 11am.
T
Christmas Window Dressing Competition
T
he Town Council hopes that shopkeepers in the town will help us celebrate Christmas by entering the Christmas Window Dressing Competition. We invite all businesses to create a beautiful Christmas-themed window display, which the Mayor will judge on Thursday 26 November. For further information or to confirm your entry, please contact the Council offices on 01805 626135 or email admin@great-torringtontowncouncil.gov.uk. If your shop is outside the town centre, please let us know that you are taking part, as we do not want to miss any displays. We look forward to seeing the town decorated for Christmas.
Christmas Lights Switch On
Join us in the Pannier Market and the town square on Saturday 28 November for this year’s Christmas lights switch on. Our event is scheduled to start at 4pm on Saturday 28 November: 4-5:30pm: Children’s disco and airbrush tattoos in the Pannier Market. 4-5:30pm: Christmas crafts (lantern making) in the Town Hall 5:30–5:45pm: Lantern parade, led by Torrington Silver Band, from the Pannier Market into the town square 5:45-6pm: Christmas sing-along in the town square accompanied by Torrington Silver Band 6pm: Mayor to switch on Christmas lights 6:15-8pm: Local musician Ian Kevern playing in the Town Hall: enjoy the music with a drink from the Town Hall bar. Hot and cold drinks will be available to purchase from the Market Café in the Pannier Market and fresh popcorn will be on sale in the market. The Town Hall will also be offering refreshments. For further details please look out for posters and check our social media nearer the time. Come along and join in the festivities as we once again light up the town centre in readiness for this special Christmas time.
21
Cedek Water Treatment Services Central Heating & Plumbing services Boiler Service/Installations/Maintenance Work Legionnaires Control Specialists
Free Quotations 01805 625645
email: cedek.co@virgin.net
Mobile: Chris 07857 767 579 Steph 07791 019 464 Natural Gas & LPG Registered
GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Getting Ready for Winter
T
here are many useful online resources offering advice about getting ready for the colder months ahead. However, we understand that not everyone can access online resources confidently. If you need help accessing further information, please get in touch on 01805 626135, and we can provide printed copies where needed. Information and IT support may also be available from your local library. If you have specific concerns about your health during cold weather, speak to your GP or another healthcare provider. Examples of useful online resources: • Winter advice for older people Age UK: www.ageuk.org.uk/ • Winter vaccinations NHS: www.nhs.uk/ • Things to do now to prepare for winter – Met Office: www.metoffice.gov.uk/ • Financial advice for those experiencing financial difficulty in later life – Independent Age: www.independentage. org/ The Met Office recommends: (metoffice.gov.uk) • Be prepared for power cuts and internet outages caused by stormy weather. Have a battery pack or spare batteries, and keep a list of important contact numbers somewhere easy to find, such as near the phone. These might include family members, your GP practice, the
power cut helpline (105), a plumber and an electrician. • Check your heating. Cold weather can pose a risk to your health, particularly if you are over 65 or have a health condition. Ideally, your home, and the homes of elderly relatives and neighbours, should be heated to at least 18°C. • Weatherproof your home and garden. Put away items that may be vulnerable to high winds, and check for loose branches, fence panels or roof slates, anything that could become dangerous in high winds. • Check your plumbing. Do you know where your stop tap is? • Make plans. Think ahead: consider how you will get to work, whether you can work from home and how childcare will be managed if schools are closed. • Have basic supplies to hand. Keep a useful supply of essential items. • Check that your car is ready for winter. Keep a warm blanket, a torch, a highvisibility jacket and some food in your car for emergencies. For the full winter car kit, visit the Met Office website. • Think about vulnerable neighbours. If you know a family member or neighbour who may find it difficult to access the information or resources they need, could you offer to help?
• Keep up to date with recommended seasonal vaccinations (www.nhs. uk). Find out how your community can prepare for seasonal changes and emergencies. Visit the webpages below for further information about community preparedness and resilience: • prepare.campaign.gov.uk/get-preparedfor-emergencies/ •Metoffice.gov.uk – community resilience One of the most common issues people contact Great Torrington Town Council about during winter, particularly when we experience snow and ice, is the location of salt bins. Please get in touch if you need information about your nearest salt bin. Guidance on using salt is available online. Grit or salt should be used sparingly and is provided primarily for use on roads. The Bickford Centre on South Street is a great place to pop in for a cup of tea and some company. You can also access useful information there. Look out for other local services offering a warm space throughout the winter.
An Helen
W watch Septe Bidefo with v the UK Ba suppo Gang traditi kind a the d Fair w forma finishe It was frock’ ‘South We s day to and d that th won silver) trader hard Great the o to find – our Ou
CHURCH STREET STORES 07949 041 799 DOLTON Sammoircarpentry@gmail.com EX19 8QE Tel: 01805 804205
• Kitchens
Open• Decking/Fencing • Custom built furniture • Cladding Monday to Saturday 6.30am - 8.00pm • Storage solutions repair Sunday 8.00am•-Timber 7.00pm Convenience Store & Post Office • General home improvements • External painting www.churchststores.co.uk for our latest offers
22
Merton 01805 603924. Personally Supervised by Andrew & Janice Gist www.themaltscoop.co.uk/info@themaltscoop.co.uk Excellent home-made food served every day 12-2pm/6-9pm Great selection of01805 wines, 622364 real ales, ciders Open fire and snug rooms
2 Torrington Methodist Church Devon 10.30am Rolle Canal & Northern Rev Stephen Hill 6.30pm Rev Ken Waterways Society Guided Walk Morgan
The new season's programme of
depending on the season, m Saturday 13th
flowering at thewith timeGeoffrey of the w Advice Surgery The start of the for an appointment ring walk 01237is4
GT Water Forum
H
otter, drier summers, record low river flows, and shrinking reservoirs are becoming more common. Water management is a national resilience challenge. It is estimated that public water supply could face a deficit of around 5 billion litres per day by 2055 without further action, more than a third of the water currently put into public supply. Climate change is only part of that equation: population growth, economic development and the need to reduce potentially environmentally damaging abstraction all add to the pressure. Because climate change is driving more extreme swings between heavy rainfall and prolonged dry spells, managing water wisely has become everybody’s problem. Without better planning and action, these extremes will keep pushing the country toward more frequent droughts. The solution isn’t just about finding more water - it’s about using what we have far more intelligently. Demand management, leakage reduction, reservoirs, transfers, recycling, desalination are all part of the solution. Resilience comes from having options that perform under different conditions. The following are examples of actions we must be taking. • Introducing block charges, where higher use triggers higher tariffs, would encourage households and businesses to cut waste. • All water outlets must be fitted with water meters, preferably smart ones. • Instigate a policy of water neutrality which aims to ensure that the total water demand of any new development (housing, factories) is offset by water savings, resulting in no net increase in water consumption. • Fix leaks, which currently waste billions of litres every day. Water companies have made progress, but the scale of loss remains unacceptable. Several factors contribute to water leaks: • Aging infrastructure: Many pipes are brittle due to age, making them prone to
failure. • Ground movement: Soil shifts, tree roots, and construction activities can damage pipes. • Extreme weather: Climate change increases the risk of leaks through more intense winter rainfall, summer soil drying, flash floods, and frequent freeze– thaw cycles. If all the leaks were stopped overnight 2.87bn litres of water a day would be saved, just over half of the projected 2055 deficit. Recycling water. Treated wastewater can be safely reused for agriculture, industry, and even drinking after advanced purification. Countries facing far harsher climates already rely on recycling as standard practice. The UK will need to follow suit if it wants a stable supply in a warming world. Desalination also has a role, especially for coastal regions. Desalination plants are energy-intensive, but modern plants are becoming more efficient. Major new reservoirs are planned, but they could take around 12 years to complete, followed by approximately two years to fill. Help farmers reduce water consumption by advising and providing financial assistance for new irrigation techniques and water storage. Learn from Egypt, India and the Middle East. Ultimately, drought resilience isn’t just a job for water companies or government. It’s a shared responsibility. Every leak repaired, every litre saved, every policy that rewards efficiency helps protect rivers, wildlife, farms, and communities. The UK cannot control the weather, but it can control how well it prepares for extremes. With smarter management and collective action, future droughts don’t have to become the new normal. Please don’t forget World Toilet Day 2026 on Thursday 19 November is about sanitation and gender equality. The campaign – ‘Safe toilets. Equal futures.’ – shows how safe sanitation protects
women and girls’ health, safety, dignity and opportunity – enabling them to go to school, work and fully take part in society. There are 3.4 billion people living without access to safe sanitation, but not everyone faces the same impacts. Lack of access to safe sanitation reinforces gender inequality by exposing women and girls to diseases, danger and abuse, affecting their rights to health, education and work. Using unclean or broken toilets – or having to go outside – causes stigma and shame, affecting women and girls’ self-confidence and security. Climate change and extreme weather events are making the sanitation crisis worse in many areas – and when services are disrupted, women and girls pay the heaviest price. Women must help shape sanitation solutions, working alongside men to design, manage and deliver services that work for everybody. The participation of women, girls and other groups disproportionately affected by unsafe sanitation – including older people, persons with disabilities, and gender-diverse people – is essential to building resilient services that leave no one behind. We must invest in gender-responsive sanitation and make toilets a force for equality that benefits everyone, everywhere, without discrimination. Contact us @gtwaterforum@gmail. com. www.facebook.com/great torrington water forum. www.linkedin.com
Torrington Rotary & Torrington in Bloom
W
e hope to host an open garden event – and we need your help. We're looking for at least ten people willing to open their gardens to the public for one day next year (date to be confirmed). If you'd like to take part or find out more, please contact Martyn: Email: mlb-rotary@hotmail.com or phone: 07802 516 650.
23
Organic & Wholefood Buying Group News: November 2026
W
e’re a Torrington-based group that enables members to order organic wholefoods from our cooperative wholesaler’s catalogue of more than 5,000 items at wholesale prices, at least 25% below retail prices. Our aim is simply to make better-quality food available to more people at affordable prices, and to support our health and that of our families. You can find full information and become a member at no cost on our website: owbg.jimdofree.com. At our Order Collection Day Social and Lunch, we have great discussions, share knowledge and support one another in our efforts to invest in our health and rise to any health challenges we may face. Our kitchens are our pharmacies, and we enjoy swapping recipes and techniques, as well as tasting one another’s dishes. You can now also find this event listed each month at www.great-torrington.uk/ events. Your Invitation to Meet Up: Anyone interested in finding out more about what we do or joining OWBG is welcome. If you would like to come to our monthly social, please do! As I write, the next one is on Wednesday 18 November; future dates and the location are available on our website. A quick email to owbg@ protonmail.com is very helpful, so we know how many people to expect for our shared potluck lunch, to which members contribute.
24
Wellbeing Tip Quinoa, a staple food of the Incas, who called it the “mother grain”, isn’t actually a grain at all, but a seed with outstanding nutritional qualities. It is now grown in Britain, so there is no need to buy imported varieties that may contribute to shortages of this staple food in South America. When cooked, it has a light, fluffy texture and has more protein than any grain. It also contains more beneficial fats than any grain and more calcium than milk. A good source of iron, phosphorus, B vitamins and vitamin E, with a warming thermal nature, quinoa strengthens the whole body, specifically energising the kidneys and the pericardium meridian, which protects the heart. Using Quinoa: It is gluten-free and works very well as a substitute for bulgur wheat or couscous. It is a good base for all sorts of creative salads and can be served as a grain alongside a main meal. It also makes excellent, quick and highly nutritious lunches that are not too heavy, as well as lovely risotto. Quinoa makes good porridge, and the flour can be used in croquettes, loaves and cakes. I make a Quinoa, Chocolate, Pear & Pecan Torte, which satisfies gourmet tastes without overly challenging the digestion. I actually use whole quinoa rather than flour, as it sets into a moderately firm cake consistency when cold. In this form, it is much easier to digest than a flour-based cake. Some
recipes call for quinoa flakes, which I find unnecessary and expensive, but if you have whole quinoa, you can always put it in a food processor for a more flake-like texture if you really want to. All types of quinoa are available to buy through OWBG, and we often share 5kg cases, which makes this excellent food even better value. Upcoming Grocery Final Order Dates: 9 October and 10 November • How do I join? Via our website, where you’ll find all the information you need. • What does membership cost? It is free. •What if I need advice or have questions? Call 01805 623307 or email mary@marycrailwellbeing.co.uk. OWBG website: owbg.jimdofree.com Facebook: Organic & Wholefood Buying Group Email: owbg@protonmail.com www.marycrailwellbeing.co.uk
Alverdiscott Church
A
traditional service of Holy Communion using the Book of Common Prayer is now being held each week at 8am in the beautiful village church of Alverdiscott. There is a sermon but no hymns. Anyone who appreciates the rich spirituality of the old 1662 service and King James bible, or anyone who has never used it but would like to give it a try, is invited to attend.
Come & enjoy the magic of Zumba! Dance , exercise & most of all have fun! It’s more than a workout! You will leave feeling happy & energised. It is for all ages & fitness levels, you don’t need to be able to dance...
First Class Free - no tie in Thursday 6.15pm-7.15pm Contact Wendy to book your free class t: 07787 607 322 e: wendy.cox@btinternet.com Scout Hall , Gas Lane Torrington EX38 7BE
North Devon Ramblers Walks – November
Wednesday 4 November: Dulverton Riverside. A four-mile leisurely circular walk along the River Barle, returning through woodland. Lunch in Dulverton with a chance to see the Hope Bourne Exhibition: Meet at the Exmoor House Car Park. Start: 10.30am, estimated finish: 1pm. Wednesday 11 November: Hunters Inn-Woody Bay. A 6.5-mile circular walk from Hunters Inn along the coast path to Woody Bay. Meet at Hunters Inn NT car park. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 3.30pm Wednesday 25 November: Lee to Torrs Park. A circular seven-mile walk following the coastal route via Higher Slade. Meet at the new NT car park at Lee Bay. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 2.30pm Wednesday 9 December: A 5.5mile circular walk in the Watersmeet area with some steep climbs. Meet at Hillsford Bridge NT car park. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 2.30pm. Please refer to our website for further information: northdevonramblers.org
Badminton for Fun!
C
ome and have fun. Players aged 18 to 118. 7.30-9pm, Wednesdays at Little Torrington Victory Hall, £3. Please telephone Jen on 01805 622433.
North Devon Choral Society Concert Fauré and Friends, Saturday 5 December 2026 at 7.30pm Torrington Church
J
ohn Hobbs will lead the choir in a performance of Gabriel Fauré’s muchloved Requiem, first sung in 1888 at the Madeleine Church in Paris. Soprano Hannah Sawle will sing the heavenly Pie Jesu. A dramatic plea for forgiveness is offered by the baritone soloist, Nick Morris, in Libera me, Domine, a call echoed by the full chorus of the North Devon Choral Society before its final, lyrical depiction of heavenly bliss, In Paradisum. The other main work in the concert is Poulenc's exhilarating Gloria, in which Hannah's ethereal solos contrast with vigorous, joyful choruses. Completed in 1960, the work includes the bouncing Laudamus te. Two shorter works will also be sung. Poulenc’s Four Motets for Christmas, and Duruflé’s Ubi Caritas – an exquisite motet using harmonised plainsong. An opportunity to hear a programme of wonderful French music with Torrington’s Willis Organ, one of the finest in the West Country and the twin of the organ in Truro Cathedral. Tickets £20 including a complimentary programme. Children and students free. Available from Torrington Jewellers, Walter Henry's Bookshop, Bideford or Tarka Books, Barnstaple. Also available from choir members, by phoning 07414 255 500, or on the door www.northdevonchoral.org.uk. Registered charity 281281.
Torrington and District Historical Society
O
ur autumn programme is well under way, and we are looking forward to the meeting on 9 November. We have been invited for a “Night at the Museum”, a special evening visit to Torrington’s own museum, when staff and volunteers will be on hand to guide us through some of the treasured artefacts and displays. Please arrive at the museum (located next to the entrance to the Pannier Market) between 7.20- 7.30pm. If you are not a member of the Torrington and District Historical Society and would be interested in attending, please phone Jane on 07510 924388. We would like to thank Dave and his team for this special invitation. If you would like to know more about the society, you can follow us on Facebook. If you would like a copy of our spring programme, please email torringtonhistorysociety@gmail.com or pick one up at the museum. Maggi Rogers
A J Installations Alistair McMillan specialising in
Aerial, Satellite and TV Installations Got equipment you can’t use properly? We offer a friendly step-by-step instruction service
Drain clearing Drain clearing CCTV surveys CCTV surveys Repairs/Relining Repairs/Relining Septic Tank Septic Tankand and Treatment plant Treatment plantinstallation installation Tel: 07794 586039 or 01271 440251
With over 35 years’ experience in the North Devon area
Phone Ali on 01805 804626 or 0797 781 00 88 25
Slimming World Groups at Torrington’s Castle Community Centre Wednesday 9am & 10.30am
Make your own Christmas Wreath With Fine Floral Design The Castle Community Centre Great Torrington Sat 28th Nov 2-5pm £35 per person
Debbie Summers 07796 945 039
Come & Join us for a fun packed afternoon. Make a wreath that will make your front door look fabulous & your heart full of cheer. All materials included as well as Coffee/Tea/Mince pies/Cake Tel: 01805 938946/WhatsApp 07533 891 380/Message on social media Why not give a Workshop as a Gift! Majority of proceeds to The Secret Garden & Torrington in Bloom
The Crier Prize Crossword
The winner of this month’s crossword will receive free membership and a 6-week Slimming World course. 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 Joe Ford. The winner for this issue will be picked at random from correct entries. Deadline for entries is Thursday 12th November.
26
I run our lovely, small, friendly Slimming World group in Torrington. We’re a warm, welcoming bunch passionate about two things: enjoying delicious food and losing weight together! We’re not about faddy diets or going hungry. We’re about eating well, making everyday meals work for us, and supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. There’s always a cuppa, a chat and lots of laughter. I am SO proud of my amazing members. Since November last year, as a group we have lost an incredible 2,149lbs — that’s over 153 stone! How amazing is that? That’s 153 stone we are no longer carrying, and so much gained in confidence, energy and happiness. Every pound represents someone who walked through the door feeling nervous, and found friendship, support and belief in themselves. If you’ve been thinking about joining us, please come along. Whether you have a little or a lot to lose, you will be made so welcome. No judgement, just lots of support. Come and be part of something amazing, we’d love to meet you! Lots of love, Debbie Slimming World Torrington at Castle Hill Community Centre (1646). Wednesdays, 9am & 10.30am. No need to book, just pop along, or call me for a chat.
From Your District Councillors…
Continuing the theme, Torridge District Council has issued the following statement about the Xlinks project. his month, we have had a quick “Torridge District Council was update on Local Government approached by Xlinks in April 2025 for Reorganisation (LGR), or the pre-planning advice on its proposal to merging of councils to create unitary build a data campus on land within the authority councils. The government has district. It was approached by the same halted LGR in Devon, so councils will company regarding the Battery Energy be staying as they are. But I take this Storage System in October 2025. with a pinch of salt, as when the process The pre-application process is started, the government was adamant confidential between the applicant and that all councils were going to face the local planning authority. During LGR… this time, it is standard practice for an Some councillors have proposed their organisation to consult the local planning own ideas for a new LGR layout, but department to help inform the planning without any facts and figures about each application and process. Alongside the area, and with a lack of consultation with planning department, other Council the other councils involved, the proposal teams are involved in the pre-application fell flat on its face. However, it did open a process as necessary, such as discussion about how prepared we need Environmental Protection and Economic to be should LGR return, and whether Development. next time we should simply ignore As part of this process, a preall the LGR guidance on how large a application response is sent to the new council should be—just as the applicant stating that the proposal would government did when it announced the be considered subject to meeting a list Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay and Left-Over- of criteria. This is not confirmation of Bits councils. any proposal; rather, it is intended to We have had several TDC Full Council offer guidance on whether a proposal meetings over the past couple of months, is acceptable in principle in planning at which campaigners have come out terms. The letter will highlight the key in force to protest peacefully against issues that should be addressed in the the data centre and BESS. At the most application. This service is offered to all recent gathering, a recording of a data applicants. centre was played from a site three miles In summer 2026, Xlinks publicly away. This has stirred discussion among announced that it was proposing to build councillors, but we still do not have a a ‘Devon Data Campus’ on land between formal planning application and therefore Great Torrington, Huntshaw and Weare have no details. Giffard. The proposal comprises an AI
T
data centre campus, a transmissionscale battery energy storage system and local amenities. At that time, the company also announced that it would undertake a public consultation in July to gather feedback and help shape the proposal before planning applications were formally submitted to the Council. However, this consultation was postponed until later in the year and, as far as we are aware, the new dates have yet to be published. At the moment, partly because Xlinks has chosen to delay its consultation process, no formal planning applications have been submitted to Torridge District Council. When any proposals are received, they will be validated and details will be published on the Council’s planning portal. Interested parties will then have the opportunity to submit comments through the statutory consultation process. In the meantime, and in advance of this, the planning department has asked that comments and representations be made directly to Xlinks (www. devondatacampus.com), as we are unable to accept them before the formal planning process begins.” If you have any concerns, please get in touch. Cllr Doug Smith, Councillor.smith@ torridge.gov.uk, 07970 636 199 Cllr Chris Bright, Councillor.bright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07936 325 909 Cllr Lauren Bright, Cllr.laurenbright@ torridge.gov.uk, 07595 659 310
TORRINGTON ARMS Open daily from 11am
Wednesday Curry Night 6-8pm • Sunday Roast 12-2pm Takeaways Available Function Room available for all occasions SKY SPORTS • TNT SPORT • RACING CHANNELS • POOL DARTS • LIVE MUSIC • QUIZ NIGHTS For bookings please contact: 01805 622280 or via Facebook 27
events at the plough Cosy November Nights With Comedy, Live Music & Festive Creativity at The Plough
A
s the nights draw in and festive preparations begin, November is the perfect time to escape the chill, enjoy an evening out or get creative. From big names in comedy and live music to films and festive workshops, there are plenty of reasons to get together at The Plough Arts Centre. Comedy takes centre stage this month, starting with award-winning comedian and creator of The Room Next Door, Michael Spicer, who brings his new satirical stage show Hope All’s Well, packed with sketches, short films and stories, to The Plough on Friday 13 November. Following hot on his heels, comedy legend Dom Joly arrives on Saturday 14 November with Trigger Happy TV Live!, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the much-loved series and bringing some of his iconic characters and sketches to our stage. Music lovers are in for a treat when Steve Knightley returns on Friday 6 November with The Winter Yards Band, followed by an intimate evening with Go West singer Peter Cox on Saturday 7 November, looking back over his greatest hits and stellar career. There’s a distinctly Celtic flavour later this month, as Blazin’ Fiddles bring 25 years of world-class Scottish musical magic to The Plough on Wednesday 18 November. Then, on Friday 27 November, 3 Daft Monkeys’ infectious musical adventures blend Cornish Celtic roots with fiery fiddle tunes and punkstyle sass. If getting creative is more your thing, our November workshops are getting well and truly Christmassy! Try your hand at Christmas redwork or hand sewing, explore embroidery, and make beautiful no-sew decorations and gifts. Our November films offer a fresh take on Jane Austen’s Sense and
28
Sensibility on Saturday 7 November, or experience National Theatre Live: Golden Boy on Friday 13 November, starring The Crown’s Josh O’Connor. Set in 1930s New York, it follows a gifted young violinist whose dreams of musical success lead him into the brutal world of professional boxing. On Monday 23 November, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the much-loved Doctor Who series with a vintage screening of The Satan Pit. There’s also a rescreening of the thought-provoking documentary 2 Dereks, exploring sustainability issues and the two different approaches to land use taken by neighbouring Devon farmers who both happen to share the name Derek! Over at our sister venue, The Plough @St Anne’s, November brings lots more live music and creativity. Regulars Pattern Recognition perform on Thursday 12 and Saturday 21 November with their otherworldly blend of vocals and electronics, while Amanita Grove Collective present Sounds of Peace and Joy on Sunday 15 November, offering music to nourish the heart and soul. For something a little more intimate, check out Emily Slade’s intricate guitar playing and enchanting vocals on Friday 14 November. Or enjoy an evening with North Devon musicians James Spencer and Rebecca Balzani Barrow on Saturday 28 November for an evening of original music blending folk, country and rock. Dare to venture out with Susan Pengelly on a Haunted History Tour and hear chilling true tales on an atmospheric evening walk through Barnstaple. Or choose from a packed programme of creative workshops at Barnstaple Guildhall. From Winter-Themed Pressed Flower Lanterns and Wet Felting to
Exploring Autumn in Watercolours, making Christmas Rag Wreaths and Festive Mosaic decorations. Please note St Anne’s live events and workshops will take place at Barnstaple Guildhall until the end of this year while essential renovation works are completed. Panto is coming to Torrington too – Oh no it isn’t! Looking ahead to December, our Next Stage Youth Theatre Company will be bringing the fairest panto of them all to Torrington. Snow White promises magical mayhem, seven gnomes, the evil Queen Grimelza, hilarious henchmen Bog and Stink, and our fabulous dame, Dolly Dumpling. With fantastic music, classic characters and plenty of Christmas cheer, it’s set to be a festive treat for all the family. Keep an eye on our website and book early!
The Plough Café | Bar | Bistro
A
s always, The Plough Café | Bar | Bistro offers a warm and cosy welcome, making it the perfect place to meet friends, enjoy a delicious cake, a relaxed lunch or a preperformance drink. Why not try our kids’ snack boxes, our new takeaway menu, available Wednesday to Saturday from 10am–2pm, or look out for our pop-up Sunday lunches? Check The Plough Café | Bar | Bistro’s Facebook page for full details. Whether you’re enjoying an evening out with friends, getting creative for Christmas or bringing the whole family together, there’s plenty to enjoy at The Plough this season. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Visual Arts and Exhibitions (free entry)
Signposts & Departures by Pete Newell runs until 16 November. Inspired by North Devon’s maritime and industrial heritage, the exhibition explores journeys, restoration and the stories that places leave behind through painting, drawing and installation. Colin Porter opens a new exhibition from 18 November, with a Private View (open to all) on Saturday 20th November, 6–8pm. His eclectic practice explores our connection with nature through sculpture, performance, words and music, combining natural and found materials to create visual metaphors, stories and poems. Our Business of Art workshop series continues on Saturdays 7 & 28 November at 10:30am, with guidance on marketing and pricing creative work. A relaxed opportunity for artists to learn from experienced professionals. On the Artist’s Wall Ceramics by Eilean Eland & Paintings by Sarah Lockett continues until Saturday 21 November, bringing together ceramic sculptures inspired by the female form, beach and garden with atmospheric paintings of landscapes, forests and changing coastlines. Rosie Burns - Doves works will be on display in the café from Wednesday 25 November. Painter, printmaker and illustrator Rosie Burns brings together vibrant work celebrating light, life and our connection with the environment.
Diary Dates
Box Office: Monday 7-9pm (term time only) Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm & 6:30pm9pm Please call: 01805 624624 Please note that a 5% fee will be applied to all bookings. Cafe Bar & Bistro: Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 2:30pm | Friday & Saturday - 6pm-8pm Please call: 01805 625925 Visit: www.theploughartscentre.org.uk
The Plough Arts Centre Great Torrington Friday 6th November 10am Workshop: Mixed Media Textiles & Embroidery - Landscapes 1:30pm Workshop: Fabric Christmas Baubles 6:30pm Talk: John Puddy - History of SS Freshspring 8pm Live Music: Steve Knightley & The Winter Yards Band Saturday 7th November 10:30am Workshop: Plough Writers Autumn Term 2026 10:30am Workshop: The Business of Art Marketing 3:30pm Film: Sense and Sensibility 7:30pm Talk: Go West - We Close Our Eyes, And Other Stories An Intimate Evening With Singer Peter Cox followed by Meet & Greet Friday 13th November
10am Workshop: Gold and Bead Work Embroidery 1:30pm Workshop: Fabric Christmas Wreaths 2pm Film: National Theatre Live: Golden Boy 8pm Live Comedy: Michael Spicer - Hope All's Well Saturday 14th November 8pm Live Comedy: Dom Joly - Trigger Happy TV, 25th Anniversary Tour Wednesday 18th November 11am Charles Hanson Valuations in The Gallery 8pm Live Music: Blazin Fiddles Friday 20th November 10am Workshop: Working with Wool Felt 1:30pm Workshop: Fabric Christmas Trees Saturday 21st November 7:30pm Live Dance: Inspire Dance Festival Monday 23rd November 7pm Film: Doctor Who - The Satan Pit Friday 27th November 10am Workshop: Christmas Redwork 1:30pm Workshop: Hanging Christmas Decorations 4pm Film: Derek vs Derek with recorded Q&A 8pm Live Music: 3 Daft Monkeys Saturday 28th November 8pm Live Comedy: The Comedy Store Regular Clubs at The Plough Mondays 7:30pm Ploughcappella - North Devon’s Thriving Community Choir Tuesdays 10:30am Workshop: Prism & Motion
Plough Youth Theatre (PYT) Inclusive, fun and creative drama, theatre and dance classes every Saturday during term-time for 3 - 18 year olds! Drama & Theatre 3-7 years: 10-11.30am 8 -11 years: 24pm 11-14 years: 10am-12pm 14-18 years: 12-2pm Creative Dance 8-18 years: 4-6pm Wednesdays, Creative Writing and Theatre Making course for 8-18 year olds, from 5- 6.30pm! Free trials available! For more information please email: katherine@theploughartscentre.org.uk or WhatsApp 07715 605 506. The Plough@St Anne’s - Haunted History Tours Thursday 12th November 7:30pm Barnstaple Murder & Macabre Haunted History Tour Thursday 26th November 7:30pm Barnstaple Town Centre: Southgate End Haunted History Tour The Plough@St Anne’s - Live Events at: Barnstaple Guildhall Sunday 1st November 10am Workshop: Christmas Wreath Pottery (sold out - join our waiting list!) 1pm Workshop: Tumbled Tile and Clay Pendant Thursday 5th November 7:30pm Workshop: Plough Storytelling Circle Saturday 7th November 11:30am & 2pm Winter Themed Pressed Flower Lanterns 7pm Pattern Recognition Presents: Colossloth, Satori & A Waste of Damnation Thursday 12th November 6pm Introduction to Wet-Felting Saturday 14th November 10am Autumn in Watercolours 7:30pm Live Music: Emily Slade Sunday 15th November 12pm Christmas Rag Wreaths 6pm Live Music: Amanita Grove Collective Sounds of Peace and Joy Friday 20th November 7pm Theatre Workhouse Scratch Nights Saturday 21st November 1pm Christmas Tree and Angel Mosaic 7pm Pattern Recognition Presents: Chimehours & Lichon Saturday 28th November 10am The Industrial Past - Cornish Tin Mines in Watercolour 7:30pm James Spencer & Rebecca Balzani Barrow
29
This month we’re celebrating some successes from our Enrichment and Intervention programme, and another fantastic speech from one of our Year 11 pupils.
Feminism
T
oday I'm going to be talking about feminism. Feminism is such a broad topic but a very important one,and I wanted to highlight some of the issues that we as women have to deal with everyday. Research shows that sexism and gender discrimination begin as early as just 3 to 5 years old. Meaning that the majority of women have dealt with sexism their whole lives. Sexism is taught throughout society without us even realising it. For example, have you heard of the expression a dog is a man's best friend? Well why is it when a woman owns cats, she’s a crazy cat lady? Or when a woman is being assertive, she is seen as pushy, whereas when a man is being assertive, he is seen as a leader. Women are always on the receiving end in fact, 2.2 million women in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2025. Nearly one in three women have experienced domestic abuse since the age of 16. Men will say the most disgusting thing whether it’s about your body, appearance, your hopes and dreams even your hobbies and claim it’s just “banter” But as soon as you get upset, they like to say “Is it that time of the month?” or “you’re being too emotional”. Men also use a common phrase of “it’s not all men” but why is it every woman has a story? Why does every woman feel scared or even threatened for simply going for a walk? Imagine being bitten by a dog; you would have a hard time trusting dogs again. So imagine being a woman who has experienced something bad they would also have a hard time trusting men again. And in Afghanistan, there is a girl just like me, same age, same abilities, same dreams. Only she is forced to be nothing, simply because she is a woman. That’s why feminism is still needed for those young girls in less fortunate countries. Did you know a squirrel has more rights than a woman in Afghanistan. Why? Because women are not allowed in the park. Thankfully in April 2026 catcalling and other forms of public sexual harassment officially became a criminal offence in England and Wales. Sienna Ferry
For all your quality bespoke wooden gates, garden furniture & timber needs, inc all fencing materials.
Dry Seasoned, Ready-to-Burn logs Now available! Do come down and see us at Victoria Sawmills, Merton EX20 3EG, 01805 603429 www.torridgegates.co.uk 30
Enrichment and Intervention at Hatchmoor Nursing Home
D
uring period 5 every Thursday afternoon, we offer our pupils opportunities that will enrich their education by building relationships through community involvement, volunteering and achieving success in areas other than curriculum subjects. Each project has been linked to one of our school values: opportunity, health, resilience, responsibility, respect, relationships. I found my enjoyment in for this E&I by accident as there was nothing else I wanted to do. I’m really glad I did, as now I would choose it every time. I have completed one whole term of visiting Hatchmoor Nursing Home and I'm now on my second term. There is me and 10 other students all from different year groups from Year 7 to Year 11. We get the minibus to
Garden & Landscape All garden & landscape work undertaken, large & small, by experienced & qualified landscaper & designer, plus
Contact Sharon 01805 622543
Hatchmoor to maximise the time we have there, and when we arrive we sign in at reception. We then go and wash our hands to prevent any germs from spreading to the elderly people we work with. There are usually four to five residents we visit, which means two students with one resident. We play games and sometimes bingo, we also have a little box with questions in to get to know each other more. There are twelve sessions in a term one and for the last session we usually do gardening outside. I feel like it’s very rewarding and the residents love it because it gives them some entertainment and new people to socialise with. I have grown in confidence at talking to the residents: at first I was a bit nervous and I wasn't sure what to say but now I can sit there and make full conversations. It’s also made me have more respect and sympathy for the elderly as everyone I've met has been really nice. The staff at Hatchmoor are all very kind and they work extremely hard, and they offer drinks and biscuits to the students and residents. I think this E&I is verry important to GTS as it brings generations together. It also helps people to see that some young people can be kind respectful and generous. I'm really looking forward to my sessions this term! Amelia Bignell, Year 9
Lest We Forget
We were squatting down in the trenches Attack! We all charged forward our feet flattening the grass We are surrounded by green fog Suddenly everyone was fumbling for their masks Everyone had got their masks on but for one Coughing and spluttering with yellow eyes And then it was silent, he was gone Lest we forget Bang! Bang! Bang! The guns were firing My comrades were all dropping like flies Bullets were flying all around me “Forgive me” one screamed His head smacked against the dirt But the gun cocked and was on its way Lest we forget. The grass was frosted over, it was winter again I thought back to that one solider This horrible trench was his last view of life He was happy all the time, I was inspired by him Until he received that letter, his brother was gone And the next morning so was he And that was the last we spoke of him Lest we forget. The wind was rattling the barbed wire The rain smacked against our numb faces The silence was deafening
My services include:
Mobile: 07967 789 926 Email: jamestrick@hotmail.co.uk
Families Welcome
Cash Bingo on Mondays • Darts • Pool Skittles • Snooker • BT Sports & SKY Large function room for parties/weddings Check out our Facebook page for dates of upcoming live entertainment
LOGS FOR SALE Tel: 07971533 235
FREE QUOTATIONS AVAILABLE
TORRIDGE VALE SOCIAL CLUB
• Windows & Doors • Conservatories • Fascias, Soffits & Guttering • Glass & Glazing Units • General Property Maintenance
And finally, Year 9 have been studying war poetry and we’re delighted to share this excellent poem from Nya, who has been inspired by all the writers she has studied so far, such as Wilfred Owen and Ted Hughes.
What were they planning? How many had we lost? We awoke the next morning to see the burying party We also saw pale faces, shrivelled hands and icy eyes Who was the real enemy? Lest we forget I could hear my own breath My feet pounding the earth My heart thundering in my ears I could feel my sweaty khaki coloured uniform I could see other soldiers charging at me But worst of all I could sense my desperation to survive Lest we forget. Nya Littlejohns, Year 9
BESPOKE PICTURE FRAMERS
Stibb Hollow Farm, Langtree, Torrington, EX38 8LP Tel: 01805 601777 or email mferry8@yahoo.co.uk
Personal and professional picture framing service Framing everything from prints and paintings to magazines, medals and more Repairs: Replacing broken glass, rehanging slipped artwork and replacing damaged frames For a free quote please visit us at the workshop Visit: www.stibbhollowfarm.co.uk
31
Wayne Hill Painter and Decorator Fully qualified tradesman
• Interior and exterior painting • Paper hanging • No job too big or too small For a friendly reliable service from a local tradesman ring:
T: 01805 625238 M: 07814 147 603
Fleur’s Gardening Forum Ground Cover
A
Little Torrington WI
N
ow that we are on GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) and the evenings have really drawn in, several of us are thinking about Christmas preparations: the presents we do not know what to give and that the recipients do not always want, although they are too gracious to say so. With this in mind, our November meeting is Willow Working, where we will make an item to decorate our homes or give away. Craft meetings are always popular and are among the varied activities across our 11 monthly meetings, alongside gardening, cookery demonstrations and frivolous pursuits. October’s speaker was from Devon and Cornwall Police and raised our awareness of cybercrime. It was a very informative and somewhat concerning talk: during 2025, the number of people scammed increased considerably, with an average loss of £30,000. We must all be on our guard as more of us use online banking and investment services. Last month, the book club read ‘And the Mountains Echoed’ by Khaled Hosseini, an ever-popular author. It was a very good book. November’s book is still to be revealed.
32
multitude of plants provide good ground cover for both sunny and shady areas of the garden. I tend to classify them as ‘clumpers’, ‘spreaders’ and ‘huggers’. Some are evergreen, while others die back during winter. Wellknown examples include Ajuga reptans (bugle), Bergenia, Heuchera, Helianthemum (rock rose), Stachys byzantina, Aubretia and that old favourite, Alchemilla mollis, comprising plants suited to both sun and shade. Herbs such as Thymus or Origanum species form neat, ground-hugging, evergreen mats throughout the year, with flowers during spring and summer. Hardy Geranium species and cultivars can be clumpers or spreaders and will grow in shade, part-shade or sun. For shade, G. phaeum cultivars are easy to maintain and many have interesting foliage. Try also G. nodosum which is very tough, flowering from spring into autumn. Alpine/rock garden plants often provide excellent ground cover and, again, many retain winter foliage and hug the ground forming large mats of colour during spring/ summer. Try Lithodora, Iberis (perennial candytuft) or Sedum spurium and, of course, Dianthus. For shade under shrubs or trees, there are Cyclamen coum or hederifolium, so many of which have lovely foliage as well as dainty flowers during autumn and spring. There are also a few shrubs and trees which are ‘huggers’; look out for those species with ‘repens’ or ‘horizontalis’ as part of their nomenclature. Juniperus procumbens ‘Nana’ is another low-growing tree. Cornus canadensis is a shadeloving tree that doesn’t look like a tree, but enjoys a shady area to spread around. Then there is Euonymus ‘Emerald ‘n Gold’ a really easy spreading shrub for lighting up a shady spot. As for summer bedding, many of these are actually half-hardy perennials, i.e., Lantana, pelargoniums or Diascia, but they all enjoy plenty of warm sunshine. Dig up and bring into your greenhouse over winter to conserve them for the following year. Fleur Five members attended the Members’ Day in Torquay and came away with lots of ideas. The flower bed by S&G Carpets is still blooming, and we are already planning next season’s planting. If you would like to visit us or become
a member, we meet on the second Tuesday of the month at the Victory Hall, Little Torrington, at 7.30pm. For more information, contact Emily on 07778 420 841.
adopted with existing medical issues, and therefore we will be organising an appeal to help fund Rufus’s treatment. He is such a young and loving boy, and his new owners adore him. He is lucky to have found them, and they have been relentless in looking after him and taking him for treatment twice a week, when so many new adopters might have given abulous Freddie checking in, with in obvious pain from up - our thanks go to apologies for missing last month, an ear infection that them. but I was oh so busy that my little had undoubtedly been If you can spare paws simply couldn’t get to the keys in ongoing for quite a £1 or £2 and would time! while. We took him for like to help Rufus, How quickly time goes, and that the usual veterinary you can donate via dreaded word comes around - not health check, as PayPal, or by sending Christmas, but fireworks! Now, I am not we always do, and a donation directly to at all scared of them, but so many of obtained appropriate K9focus Ltd, Lloyds us woofs (and people) are. And do you medication before Bank, sort code: know what? I have noticed that the cats he was rehomed. A 30-90-78, account are especially scared. Well, as you know, lovely couple then number: 19345968. I am not one to speak ill of them, but they fell in love with the On a different are rather, shall we say, silly in that they lad and offered him note, the end of the roam outside, don’t come in when called a home, but, as a rescue, we agreed to summer usually sees the end of our dog like us woofs do, and feel they are rather continue funding his ear medication until shows. However, we have been invited superior! Anyway, all that said, we do of the problem was resolved. Sadly, as the to hold one last dog show in 2026, at course love them and want them to be ear infection had been left untreated for the Bideford Christmas Festival on safe and not stressed. So, my request some time, the initial antibiotics and ear 29 November at 2.30pm, so do watch this year is that, if you own a cat, you washes had no effect. Despite Rufus’s out for details. Lastly, our very popular please try to keep them indoors, perhaps new owners taking him for treatment Christmas raffle tickets will soon be for a couple of nights on and before the twice a week, the problem has escalated, available from both our Torrington charity dreaded 5th. and we have now had to refer him to shop and NatWest Bank in Barnstaple. Right, less about the mews and more a specialist vet, where surgery may be There are so many prizes, including a about the woofs! I am so pleased to say required. As I tap with my paws, Aunty top cash prize of £100! that six lovely dogs have found their Lynne is awaiting an estimate, but it has As always when I sign off in November, forever homes since my last update, already been indicated that the cost may please keep all us woofs and mews safe one of which was Rufus, the absolutely well be in excess of £3,000–£4,000 on the 5th. I will be back in December gorgeous Labradoodle. When Rufus ouch! Well, we never walk away from with an update on Rufus. came to us, he was very distressed and our commitment to help when a dog is Licks & Woofs, Freddie
F
33
Promises
O
ne of my friends always said, “Making a promise is a very serious thing.” And yet, in today’s world, we are surrounded by promises. Turn on the television or look at social media and there seem to be promises everywhere. Wear a certain perfume and your life will suddenly be filled with glamour and romance. Have a hearing test and even your dog will be happier! And if you happen to weed your garden while wearing white trousers, don’t worry - the right washing powder will apparently make everything right again! Then there are the promises we make ourselves, often with the best intentions. We promise a friend that we’ll keep in touch, but somehow time slips by. We make vows at the altar, full of love and hope, yet sometimes, as the years pass, those promises fall short and dreams are sadly broken. And then there are our New Year’s resolutions - those promises we make to ourselves, which can sometimes disappear before January is even over! Jesus made promises that are very different. His promises are not empty words or clever advertising. They were true 2,000 years ago, and they are still true today, interestingly, though, there are some things Jesus never promised. He never promised His followers a life without trouble, illness or disappointment. He never promised wealth or an easy life. And He never promised that every prayer would be answered in exactly the way we want. So, what did Jesus promise? Jesus promises to welcome anyone who reaches out to Him. There is no hierarchy in God’s kingdom. No one is more important than anyone else, and no one is beyond His love. He promises to be with us through all the ups and downs of life. When things are difficult, He offers us His peace — a peace that, as the Bible says, surpasses all understanding. And, perhaps most wonderfully of all, Jesus promises eternal life: a life that death itself cannot destroy. In a world where so many promises can be shallow, fragile or quickly forgotten, the promises of Jesus are different. They are promises we can trust — promises that do not depend on our circumstances, our success or even our ability to keep our own promises. They are promises from someone who is faithful, who never forgets us, and who will never let us go. If you want to know more about the Christian faith, feel free to give us a call: Karen on 07890 132 081 and/or Trish on 07866 861 156.
34
Torrington Men’s Shed Goes from Strength to Strength
T
he Shed welcomes men of all ages looking for companionship and a safe place to share many activities. We are open on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at the top of School Lane. We would love to see visitors and new faces. Come and see our facilities, gardens and products. We are a non-profit-making organisation and free to join. At our AGM in July, officers were appointed, and we move forward with a new young chair, Clive Ward, on 07469 613412. We are pleased with the feedback on our new wooden bench at the bottom of South Street car park. Our workshop is busy making practical items for sale and responding to community requests. This year, our garden section has been increased, and some produce has been successful despite the hot weather. Our latest project is nearing completion: a set of planters for a new local charity, Miles of Smiles. Our Facebook page has more information and details. John Pitts, Secretary, 07986 586799.
November Magic
W
ith the nights drawing in and a chill in the air, it can be tempting to hide away and hibernate. Yet November often brings glorious days, when the low light casts a magical spell over our gardens. Sunlight streaming through the branches and catching a dew-beaded spider’s web or the feathery seed heads of ornamental grasses can be an uplifting sight. The shorter days and lower overnight temperatures trigger deciduous trees to prepare for their winter rest. As chlorophyll, the pigment that gives leaves their green colour, breaks down, other pigments are revealed. A rainbow of reds, oranges, yellows and purples lights up our landscapes. One of the finest trees for autumn colour is the sweet gum, Liquidambar styraciflua. Its maple-like leaves develop particularly vibrant shades and remain on the tree well into the season, creating a long-lasting display that often continues into December. Rosemoor has many stunning cultivars, particularly in the Stream Field and Lady Anne’s Arboretum. At the Lakeside, Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ beautifully complements the surrounding planting. This elegant, pyramidal tree has deeply lobed leaves that turn deep claret-red at the top of the canopy, fading through orange to yellow lower down. There are also plenty of gardening jobs to keep us busy and give next year’s displays a head start. November is the ideal time to plant tulip bulbs for a riot of spring colour. Herbaceous perennials can be lifted and divided while the soil is still warm and moist enough for roots to establish well. Plants such as phlox, lilac, perennial poppies and Japanese anemones can also be propagated successfully from root cuttings, an excellent way to increase those that have thrived in your garden. Remember to bring tender plants under cover before the first hard frosts and consider lifting and storing dahlia tubers now. What’s On Magic of Christmas Craft and Food Fairs: 20–22 and 27–29 November RHS Glow begins: 27 November Claire Rady
Wrap up Warm this Winter
Torrington Library and the Bickford Centre are once again joining Torrington Rotary with the ‘Wrap Up’ project. Every year, some people face the winter without a warm coat, so there will be a rail again by the library from the beginning of November, with pre-loved good winter coats for those in need. Please come along and take a coat if you would like one. If you are able to donate a coat (men’s, women’s and/or children’s), please take it to the Bickford Centre, 23 South Street, Torrington. Opening times are Monday–Saturday, 10am–4pm, where there will be a main collection box. ‘Wrap Up’ this winter: give what you can, take what you need.
Beaford Community Cafe
H
eld on the second Saturday of every month from 9:30am12pm. An opportunity for you to treat yourself to a delicious breakfast bap, hot drink and/or home baked cake. Free on-site car park, disabled access and parking. Books and jigsaws are available to borrow. Visit our website for details of all our events www.beafordvillagehall.com.
35
R & S Ware Family Butchers
Catering & Delivery Available • Quality Beef, Lamb, Pork & Poultry
AWARD WINNING BURGERS & SAUSAGES
Christmas orders now being taken
Fresh Turkeys, Turkey Breast Roll, Duck, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Lamb, Sausage Meat, Bacon, Pigs in Blankets, Hampers A wide range of Deli products available 15-17 South Street, Torrington • Tel: 01805 622191 • Email: rsware@btconnect.com
36