Woolacombe & Mortehoe Voice Issue 3

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Issue 3 September 2015

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Woolacombe & Mortehoe Voice A magazine for all those who love this beautiful coastline

Woolacombe & World War 2 Do you know about the part this stunning coastline played in the D-Day Landings?

The Red Barn Celebrate this iconic venue

Bull Point Lighthouse

with your photos and memories

A look back at its history

10 things to do in the area.

Family Days Out Rain and Shine take a look at some of the things that the whole family can enjoy in Woolacombe & Mortehoe

The People Behind The Names

Woolly & Molly enjoy some fun on the beach and visit local attractions.

Mortehoe War Memorial Uncovered Pte Percy Robert Coles

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CONTENTS Postcards

Find out more about Deltiology, the art of postcard collecting.

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Rick Park Photography

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Transformations Personal Training

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Rick shares some of his photographs and tells of his Dads’ inspiration.

If you love running, why not try some energy sapping hill sprints up the face of Woolacombe Dunes with Sean Dullaghan?

7 NC@EX34

Fine dining at Noel Corston’s new Woolacombe restaurant.

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The Red Barn

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The People behind the Names

12-13

The Tarka Trail

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My Mortehoe, My Woolacombe

As the Red Barn celebrates it’s 50th Anniversary, we share some of your memories and photographs.

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We continue our look at Mortehoe War memorial, with Pte Percy Robert Coles, who lost his life during World War 1.

We take a closer look at the delightful pedestrian and cycle trail

with a route between Braunton and Barnstaple.

Mike Hunter shares his love of the area in our regular feature.

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e m o c Wel

Summer has finally made an appearance, and where better to spend it than in Woolacombe or Mortehoe? If you are heading to the coast with children we take a look at some of the things you can do whilst you are on holiday, especially on those rainy days, that no British summer would be complete without!

No visitor to Woolacombe could fail to see the iconic Red Barn building overlooking the Esplanade and providing a wonderful place to watch the sun set over Lundy Island in the distance. As the Red Barn celebrates its 50th Anniversary, we take a look at some of your memories. Martin Faherty shares his collection of Red Barn photographs, from the late 1960’s which have been a real joy to share. If you have any photographs we would love to see them!

We delve back into history, and learn more about the important role that Woolacombe played during World War 2, this area was transformed from a scenic coastal resort, to a full scale assault training centre. It is wonderful to hear from people who have shared their memories of this time, and paint a very different picture of Woolacombe to the one we see today.

Happy Reading

Lorna Weston (Editor)

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Things to do on Holiday

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Readers Gallery

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The Changing face of Appledore

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Family Days Out

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Woolacombe 10K Run

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Bull Point Lighthouse

10 ideas of places to visit and things to do whilst in the

area on holiday.

A selection of your photographs, now including our

#woolacombeselfie twitter and instagram pictures.

Joan Dixon of the Appledore History Society tells of life

growing up in Appledore and how it has changed to the place

we know today.

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Ideas for those rainy days, or helping saving a few pennies, we have got it covered!

David Ludlam shares his experiences of the Woolacombe 10K run.

A look back at the history of Bull Point Lighthouse.

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28 - 29 Woolacombe and World War 2

A look back at how Woolacombe altered from a seaside resort to an Assault Training Centre.

30 - 31 Woolly & Molly

We follow our adventurous mice as they embark on more fun.

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Quizes and Puzzles 28 3

Deltiology the art of Postcard Collecting Deltiology is the official name for postcard collecting and is thought to be one of the largest collectable hobbies in the world with many people collecting specific subjects or date periods.

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y own personal collection, of over 300 postcards are all from Woolacombe and Mortehoe, dating back to the early 1900’s they build up a picture of this area as a tourist destination for many people.

The world’s first postcard is believed to have been used in Austria in 1869, with Britain following a year later. Prior to this people used sealed letters for privacy, with a slight change coming in the form of envelopes which had printed photos on them in the following years. The early mass postcards were plain, designed on one side for a stamp and the address, whilst the reverse was used for the message; these did not have any photographic images on them.

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y the time of the Paris exhibition in 1889, the popularity of the postcards had grown and the concept of sending a photo for a message whilst the back was purely for the sender to add the postage address started to develop. It was not until 1894 that the British Post Office gave permission for postcards to be used through the mail with an adhesive stamp. It would be this that led to the widespread use of what we now know as the illustrated postcard.

rricane Beach

(above) 1905 Ba

(above)

(above) 1917

combe

Trip to Woola (above) 1910.

(above) 1986 Woolacombe Bay Hotel

Luice (above) Mabel t postcard ou ll pu ll ee Attw

(above) 1

907 Glen

(above) 1975 Narracott (above) 1985 Watersmeet Hotel Grand Hotel

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n 1902 , Britain was the first country to divide the back allowing the address on one side and the message on the other with a picture on the front, this gave way to a number of artists and photographers designing postcards to send, actors also used them as a way of promoting a show or their work as with most things there soon became elite brands, and desired postcards to own, not only did this become a method of communication it was also a display of wealth and a new thing to collect.

Their content was open and this led to more and more people trying to disguise their messages, some opting just to write on the side so the post person could not easily read what had been written whilst delivering them, other people developed codes so that only the person receiving the postcard could understand its content, this was often the case with courting couples.

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s mass tourism in the UK took off, following Thomas Cook’s first package tour in 1841 and the Bank Holiday act in 1871, more and more people travelled and the desire to share their holiday experiences became more wide spread. Postcards of seaside resorts and seaside humour became popular. However as the outbreak of war took hold in 1914, the popularity of postcards declined and following the war years the more elaborate postcards of their day became fewer and fewer leaving only those used for holiday anecdotes and shorter messages rather than a means of mass communication.

To see more of our postcard collection follow us on Facebook and Twitter. woolacombeandmortehoevoice @woolacombevoice

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he postcard was a cheap and reliable way of communicating with up to seven postal deliveries a day. However postcards had one main disadvantage compared to its predecessors, and that was of course privacy.

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Rick Park Photography My Dad introduced me to photography a couple of years ago, when he had a Nikon D3000 as a Christmas gift.

The following summer my Girlfriend, Mum, Dad and myself took a trip to Woolacombe where I kept asking to use his camera. I loved it, capturing waves, landscapes and nature. It was from this point I was inspired by photography.

Before you know it, it is the following Christmas. I went to my parents and there is a box under the tree with my name on it. I open it and its a Nikon D3200. Since then I go on walks and trips just trying to capture some decent shots.

RickPark ricpark87

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n a h g a l l u D n a e STransformations Personal Training

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’ve been visiting Woolacombe for 15 years, regular weekend trips, week long holidays where we explored further afield and even the occasional overnight trip just to have a couple of hours surfing. It’s the main reason we relocated to North Devon two and a half years ago.

Since moving to North Devon my experiences at the beach have changed. I’ve recently started running Saturday morning exercise classes on the National Trust part of the beach beyond Mill Rock. I have been running similar outdoor exercise classes for 6 years, but nowhere compares to Woolacombe!

If you lo ve running why not try som e ene sapping rgy sprints u hill p the fa ce of the d unes?

If you love running why not try some energy sapping hill sprints up the face of the dunes. Great for getting your heart pumping and muscles burning... and the more you put in, the more you get out! You also won’t get the joint pain (knees particularly) that can be caused by road running. You can also use driftwood found on the beach for resistance training deadlifting or dragging a log is great exercise (if done correctly).

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f you add on a hike or run up Morte or Baggy Point you’ll be getting extra credit in the fitness bank.

Just being outside with such amazing scenery is great for you mentally, add in a challenging workout and it’s about as good as exercise can get.

“Beach training is a completely different animal.”

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also recently had the pleasure of doing the warm up for the Rotary Club Beach 10K, over 100 people challenging themselves on one of the most picturesque 10K races on the planet. If you’re into your fitness and haven’t tried it, you really should.

There’s more to beach training than running to Putsborough and back (great though that is.)

For the youngsters Woolacombe Surf Life Saving Club is a fantastic group.

My 6 year old joined recently and loves his Sunday mornings on the beach running around and playing games in and out of the sea. It also means that I have yet another excuse to go to my favourite beach every week.

If you would like to join us on Saturday mornings, we meet just before 9am in the main beach car park, at the top of the path down to the Beachcomber Cafe. Your first class is free.

For more information email me at fitness@transform-­your-­life.com Sean Dullaghan ­Transformations Personal Training 6

NC@EX34

Gold award winning chef, Noel Corston brings something new, in terms of dining, to Woolacombe with his NC@EX34 restaurant. Previously known to many as The Courtyard restaurant, the former Woolacombe Stables, come restaurant, has taken on a new lease of life, with a visual and culinary revamp.

NC@EX34 nestled in South Street offers diners a relaxed, and with only 16 covers, an intimate setting. For those who wish to get even closer to the culinary experience you are able to reserve a seat at the chefs counter, where Noel guides you through the courses as he prepares them.

Noel prides himself on “his way” and as a diner you are totally in his hands. The taster menu is set, and displayed as a list of ingredients on a blackboard, reflecting the seasons.

With everything carefully sourced, and where possible, locally, Noel creates each dish on the menu with attention to detail and using a variety of methods to bring out the flavours of some of the simplest of ingredients.

The attention to detail is not just in the food, Noel has sourced local materials to create the restaurant, which he and his father have spent many hours working on, even the cutlery is made locally. This restaurant is truly Noel’s vision, from the food to the environment in which it is prepared.

Noel’s lovely wife, Nora, brings this all together with her hospitality from the minute you walk through the door, until you enjoy your after dinner coffee, they work seamlessly together. www.noelcorston.com

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RED BARN E H T

As the Red Barn celebrates it’s 50th anniversary, we take a look back at some of your memories of this iconic Woolacombe Venue. (opposite) 1968 Front of the Red Barn - staff members Janine and Jan.

(Below and Opposite) The Red Barn from 1966, before the alterations and extensions were done in 1969.

Martin Fah shares erty his memo ri Red Ba es of the r n in 1 9681970

(opposite) 1968 Red Barn staff - Alison and Mick

(opposite) 1968 Martin Faherty and Dave Johnson having a break from window (above) 1969 Front of the Red cleaning. (b elow) 196 Barn whilst work was going on, 9 Martin preparing F with a sign directing potential the groun aherty (opposite) 1968 At the front of the Red d for the foundatio customers to the Corner Cafe. ns of the Barn is Mary Dicker (before she was n e w ice cre s h o p - now the a m married), flanked by two musicians Hunter sh op. from John Morgan’s band who were resident at the Marisco Club. On the left is drummer (opposite) 1969 The Mike Carless from Ilfracombe who had previously played late Mr. David Ashford, with the Chevrons. On the right is guitarist Mick Dolan from the father of Andy and Birmingham. They subsequently formed the band Hard Meat Jim, and grandfather with Mick Dolan’s brother Steve, and had moderate success of Angus, laying slabs with two albums, and live performances on BBC radio. at the front of the Red Barn. rd fo sh A Mr J (opposite) Red Those slabs lasted for forty years until they d Lt s fe Ca d Kelfor Barn staff, from were replaced in 2009.

Corner Cafe (opposite) 1969 Peter left, Martin Woolacombe Small and Julian Faherty, Ian Devon Ashford in front of the Macrae, Pat site for the ice cream 9 196 1/ Cope and Arthur 8/ shop - now the Hunter Kybert. The shop.

Dear Martin garden in the l al sh e W . background was subsequently dug out r your letter is Thank you fo ck with us th for a car park. ba u yo ve ha er to be glad te date near ill write defini summer. I w first to be d Peter will Easter, you an start. ed Barn at uld see the R I wish you co mpletely out co is The front the moment. aves removing working like sl and we are all ne is in the owever everyo the rubble. H . best of health you know March letting I will write in need a hand e w opening or if e ar e w n he w ting. with the pain

(opposite) 1970 Jenny Bates, long-serving employee at the Red Barn, with son Simon on Jerry the Giraffe. There was a similar ride at the front of the Red Barn that was a Zebra called Stripey. (above) 1970 The late Ernie Ellis, the oldest employee at the Red Barn, in the garden which is now a car park.

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Your Red Barn Memories

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(above) B it of lunc h before hit ting the b each at Woolacom be.... hap py 20th anniversa ry to my w onderful husband. so long

(above) Postcard of (above) Michelle Garrett Martin shares her ritual of lunch at the Red Barn. Lasagne and a glass of Merlot!

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The People behind the names Mortehoe War Memorial Percy Robert Coles

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ercy Robert Coles was born on the 11th October 1887 to Charles and Charlotte Coles. Charles father came from a dairy farming background, however Charles took a different path, joining the Royal Marine Light Infantry, which is where we see him in 1871 listed as Private, based in Kent at Sheerness Harbour, aboard “Valorous”. At this time H.M.S Valorous was operating as part of the British Arctic Expedition, carrying extra stores, she would be sold in 1891 and subsequently broken up in Plymouth. Charles progressed to the role of Sergeant with in the R.M.L.I and would live in Topsham, Devon, before moving to Mortehoe.

Charles married, Percy’s mother, Charlotte Ann Williams in 1876, she was the daughter of a farmer.

Charlotte’s family would also run a local public house, The Welcome Inn, Topsham, where in 1871 Charlotte would be working as an Innkeepers assistant. The Welcome Inn would regularly be in the press for breaching alcohol laws or fighting in the pub.

The Welcome Inn was also the scene of a number of inquests, due to its location alongside a canal, many deaths from drowning or suicide were recorded from people who frequented the public house.

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s a young child, Percy lived with his family in Barnstaple, his father was an innkeeper at The Nags Head, they would eventually move to 1 Ada’s Terrace, Mortehoe. The move was made when the family took over the running of The Chichester Arms.

“The license of The Chichester Arms, Mortehoe, was transferred to Mr Charles Coles of Barnstaple. Mr F Chugg, the former holder of the license, had married a lady of means and had gone to New Zealand”.

above: Adas Terrace, Mortehoe

Percy like his father joined the Royal Marine Light Infantry, enlisting on the 11th September 1902, aged just 15. On his enlistment documents he is described as being 5ft, 5 inches tall with a fair complexion, fair hair and hazel eyes. His records show him being regarded of “very good character and ability”, serving with the Plymouth and Duke of Edinburgh Divisions. “very good character and ability”

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n Easter Monday 1907 Percy would return home for the wedding of his brother, Ernest Edmund, who married a local girl, Miss Alice Harriet Yeo. Percy was best man; this pretty village wedding was reported in the local press.

On Easter Monday, at Mortehoe Parish Church, the marriage took place of Mr Ernest Edmund Coles, son of Mr. and Mrs. C Coles of the Chichester Arms Hotel, and Miss Alice Harriet Yeo, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Yeo. The bride entered the church followed by four bridesmaids Mr P Coles attended his brother as best man. The bride looked well attired in a white silk dress and crinoline hat of white silk trimmed with chiffon and orange blossom. She wore a gold brooch and carried a handsome bouquet. The bridesmaids also looked very chic in gowns of cream nuns veiling with primrose sashes and hats trimmed with tuile and primroses. They each wore gold and pearl brooches and carried bouquets.The bridegroom’s mother wore a dress of black satin, trimmed with sequins and a wine colour bonnet. Owing to the illness of the bride’s mother; only the immediate relatives of both families were present at the wedding breakfast at the home of the bride’s parents. The ringers and other friends were hospitably entertained by Mr. and Mrs Coles at the Chichester Arms. Early in the afternoon, Mr. and Mrs E Coles left for Bournemouth, where they honeymoon is being spent. The bride’s going away dress was of navy blue turned out with white and hat to match.

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above: The Chichester Arms, Mortehoe

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nly a few years later, Percy’s father, Charles would die.

His mother continued to run The Chichester Arms, and lived at Ada’s terrace.

Percy returned to his naval duties, and on the 15th May 1912 where he would be attached to the ill-fated H.M.S Lion. Percy would serve at varying periods aboard this ship as a Private, however on the 31st May 1916 he would be reported as: “Killed in Action, Buried at Sea”.

The H.M.S Lion was the flagship gunner of its time, the Western Gazette wrote a long article on the 12th August 1910 prior to its launch.

“With the launching of at Devonport on Saturday of H.M.S Lion, the new Dreadnought cruiser, the most wonderful engine of warfare that has ever taken to the water is added to the British Navy. She is officially described as an armoured cruiser, yet in gun power she is superior to every battleship in the world’s fleet’.

The Battle of Jutland took place between the British Grand Fleet and the German High Seas Fleet on the 31st May 1916 in the North Sea. It was the only major naval battle of World War I, and it became the largest sea battle in naval warfare history.

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he events that took place on the H.M.S Lion were recalled by two men who survived the incident: “It appears that all the occupants of the gun-house proper, most of the silent-cabinet’s crew, and most of the working chamber’s crew situated directly below the gun-house, were killed or severely wounded by the detonation of this shell in the gunhouse. The officer of the Turret, though himself severely wound, realised that his turret was out of action and on fire, and also that the fire might reach the magazine. He accordingly passed his orders by the direct-voice pipe down to the handing room below, to close the magazine doors and open the magazine flood valves, This order was promptly carried out, and did in fact prevent the flash from the cordite charges reaching the magazines, and so the ship from being blown up. The damage and loss of life caused by the actual explosion of the German shell did not extend to the magazine handing-room and shell-room crews, none of whom were wounded, but unfortunately all of them lost their lives through the cordite fire which followed a few minutes afterwards.

All these men, together with the magazine and shell-room crews, were killed by the cordite fire. It is to be remarked that the clothes and bodies of these men were not burnt, and in cases where the hands had been raised involuntarily, palms forward, to protect the eyes, the backs of the hands and that part of the face actually screened by the hands were not even discoloured.

“Death to these men must have been instantaneous.”

The Lion returned home and on Wednesday 26th June 1916, it was reported “H.M.S Lion, after her exploits in the Jutland Battle, received a remarkable ovation on touching a home port. The Lion bore no marks of battle and appeared in first class condition”.

above: The War Memorial, Mortehoe.

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he following year a service was given at Mortehoe Parish Church in memory of Pte Percy Robert Coles.

The following was reported in the local newspaper

He was killed on May 31st in the naval action off Jutland. He served in H.M.S “Lion” flagship of Admiral Beatty. He was of fine physique, a pleasant companion and a good comrade.”

“It is with heartfelt regret that MorteHoe residents heard of the deaths of ercy’s widowed mother, two brave sons of old and respected Charlotte would continue to live families in the parish. Pte. Thomas in Mortehoe, actively involved in Randall and Pte. Percy Coles have village life despite her husband and laid down their lives for their Country. son all being gone. Charlotte would die, on the 4th April 1929, aged 79.

Pte Percy Coles was the youngest son The newspaper obituary read “The of the late ex-Sergt, Coles, R.M.L.I. deceased had been in failing health for and Mrs. Coles, of the Chichester several years and lived in retirement Arms Hotel and formally of the “Nags in the village, much respected and Head” Barnstaple. He enlisted in the esteemed by a wide circle of friends” R.M.L.I at an early age and now at the age of 26 he has made the great sacrifice.

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The Tarka Trail The Tarka Trail Guide The Tarka Trail is a traffic-free pedestrian and cycle route running through Devon for 290km. This new and comprehensive guide to the 48km shared-use section between Braunton and Meeth has been written and designed by Bideford couple Carl and Gigha Klinkenborg and includes everything needed to make your experience of the Tarka Trail and adventure.

The Tarka Trail is a delightful pedestrian and cycle way which runs through the stunning North Devon countryside.

The entire Trail is a 290km figure-ofeight travelling through landscapes little changed from those described

by Henry Williamson in his classic 1927 novel Tarka the Otter. It is an invigorating and sustainable way to explore some of our stunning coastline, through deeply incised river valleys with ancient tangled woodland to the productive farmland and moorland higher up the catchments.

Some sections of the Trail are also part of the South West Coast Path, the Two Moors Way and the Dartmoor Way. It is part of the National Cycle Network (routes 27, Devon Coast to Coast and 3, West Country Way) and the shared-use section between Braunton and Meeth is totally traffic free. Along this stretch, many interpretation boards and other information will help you discover the wildlife, heritage, culture and natural features along the route. To the south of Petrockstowe Halt, Devon Wildlife Trust have now opened Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve. This exciting nature reserve can be accessed directly from the Tarka Trail.

The guide covers the route from Braunton, through Barnstaple, Fremington, Instow, Bideford, Torrington and ending at Meeth. It has easy to use coloured icons detailing access points, parking, toilet facilities, nature and wildlife, cycle hire, pubs and much more.

“My children loved cycling on the Tarka Trail when they were small, and as a parent I knew they were safe from any road traffic. Now my little granddaughter is the newest generation to benefit.”

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“We realised there was a need for an all-inclusive guide that caters for walkers, cyclists, families, horseriders, and those with mobility issues” said co-author Gigha. “My children loved cycling on the Tarka Trail when they were small, and as a parent I knew they were safe from any road traffic. Now my little granddaughter is the newest generation to benefit.”

Carl said “When we began this project I thought I knew the Trail, having walked and cycled on it hundreds of times over many years, but our research has helped even me to see it afresh.”

The book is available from various local outlets including: Combe Martin Museum, Braunton News, Braunton Musem & TIC, Barnstaple Heritage Centre, Tarka Trail Cycle Hire, Waterstones, Fremington Quay CafÊ, Walter Henry’s Bookshop, Burton Art Gallery & TIC, Bideford Railway Carriage, Torrington Cycle Hire, Puffing Billy Trading Co. or online from our website and Amazon. www.tarkatrailguide.co.uk 13

My Mortehoe, My Woolacombe

By Mike Hunter v

“I have lived in North Devon for 11 years with my wife, Claire, and our two now-teenaged children.

This is my Woolacombe, my Mortehoe.”

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ell into the festivities at a New Year’s Eve party about 7 years ago, it was drunkenly suggested we should all go for a dip in the sea the next day. Full of Dutch courage, we all agreed this was a splendid idea! Thinking no more of it, I awoke the next morning a little worse for wear and looking forward to a bit of breakfast and an afternoon watching Shrek on the telly. However, I hadn’t counted for Claire’s great memory, steely determination and lust for new and invigorating experiences. So off we went with a bunch of friends, about a dozen or so of us, to Woolacombe, where we proceeded to strip down to our costumes (no wetsuits for adults) and race into the sea together. I seem to remember our first plunge was blisteringly cold, and mercifully brief, but we have continued this ‘tradition’ every year, and have built up our endurance in the water to over half an hour. There are sometimes upwards of 30 of us, and afterwards we all return home for a big feast of curry, chilli or some other warming dish, have a great party and usually raise a bit of cash for charity too. (below left)These pictures were taken as we embraced the mighty Atlantic, seeing in the first day of the New Year. It’s an amazing way to start the year; give us a wave if you see us …you’re always welcome to join in, of course! (below right) Barricane Beach

Barricane

I was let in on the secret of this hidden gem by a friend in a Dads’ Group I used to run, a couple of years after arriving in North Devon. As a family we had been to the main beach, which is special enough, but I quickly discovered Barricane was something else. I love the fact that it never seems too crowded; there is a fabulous snack bar in the summer, and a really happy and friendly vibe. On summer evenings families and friends gather to light BBQs while the kids play in the waves, as the rising tide squeezes everyone further up the beach, encouraging socialising and sharing with fellow beach-lovers.

If you would like to write about why Woolacombe or Mortehoe means so much to you, please send us a few paragraphs and no more than 10 photographs to: woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com 14

Morte Point

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henever I walk along the North Devon coastline, I always keep a keen eye on the sea, hoping to spot some interesting or unusual marine life. A couple of years ago, while the September sun was still warming the seas, I was walking with a friend along the coast path between Morte Point and Rockham Bay, when we saw a couple of seals bobbing around near the rocks. Being rugged, adventurous types we carefully picked our way over the rocks below the path, as the seals followed our every move from the water below. We managed to get to a plateau of rock with a raised ridge about 5 feet high separating us from three seals basking about 10 feet away. As we watched them dozing for a while I was lucky enough to get this photo with a fairly basic mobile camera.

Grunta ‘Coalition’ is a unique piece of outdoor sculpture, on the headland overlooking Grunta Beach near Morte Point. It was designed by Jay Clement, a local artist, and is one of five pieces located on this stretch of National Trust headland.

I was one of a team of volunteers who worked on ‘Coalition’ in May 2013, dismantling an existing dry stone wall and using local slates to recreate a new boundary in the shape of a breaking wave, symbolizing the meeting of land and sea. I understand this was a contentious project to some at the time; I hope that it has now become a well-loved landmark that will be enjoyed by many generations to come.

I’d never visited North Devon before our family moved here in 2004, and I am thankful every day that we seized the nettle when we had a chance to relocate. It really is such a special area, with an exceptional coastline; I have so many favourite places, but the coastline between Woolacombe and Mortehoe must rank among the best for me!

If you would like to follow more of my travels in and around North Devon and Exmoor’s coast and countryside, please visit and ‘Like’ my blog at www.facebook.com/ MikesEDEN 15

Things on 1 2

Roxy’s Diner. Fancy stepping back to the 1950’s? Why not visit Roxy’s Diner? The themed restaurant at The Rocks Hotel is a unique place to enjoy a burger, milkshake or an amazing knickerbocker glory. Whilst being surrounded by 50’s memorabilia and tunes playing on the 1959 Wurlitzer juke box. www.therockshotel.com

Chambercombe Manor. Steeped in history and legends, this was once the home of Henry Duke of Suffolk father of the ill-fated Lady Jane Grey. The house is set in a secluded valley on the coastline of Ilfracombe, said to be host to paranormal activity it is well worth a visit. You can also enjoy a cream tea in the Buttery Tea rooms, or simply sit in the beautiful gardens, soaking up the sun. www.chambercombemanor.org.uk

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Marwood Sculpture Gardens why not visit these beautiful 20 acre gardens.

The award winning gardens and lake are set in a valley, 4 miles from Barnstaple. The gardens created in the late 1950’s are a haven to relax and enjoy the collection of plants. The gardens also have a tea rooms, and nursery selling plants. www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk

Croyde, visit this stunning village, steeped in old world charm, with a stream running through the thatched cottage lined streets. Croyde has a sandy beach, best known for its surfing. We will be featuring Croyde in our next magazines spotlight feature. The village has a range of shops and tea rooms to enjoy.

Woolacombe Horse Riding. Enjoy a day at the stables. Woolacombe Riding Stables is a British Horse Society and Pony club approved equestrian centre in Woolacombe. A day at the stables is for children over the age of 7 and is held from 10:00 - 16:00. A great way to learn about the work of the stables, gain instruction and go for a ride. For more information www.woolacombe-ridingstables.co.uk

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to do holiday 6 7

Barricane Beach Curry In the evening the beach cafe serves delicious homemade Sri-Lankan curries. Take a picnic rug and a bottle of wine and watch the sunset whilst enjoying a selection plate of authentic food.

Falconry Experience Days. Enjoy a day hunting with trained Harris’ hawks in some of the UK’s most beautifull countryside. You will receive a brief lesson in handling this magnificent bird of prey and will enjoy the reassurance of being under the watchful eye of one of our expert falconers at all times. www.northdevonfalconry.co.uk

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Ilfracombe Wildlife Cruises take a cruise from Ilfracombe Harbour to see the spectacular wildlife and gorgeous North Devon Coastline. Ilfracombe Wildlife crusies offer a range of coastal excursions from Ilfracombe Harbour, including The Seal Cruise, Exmoor Nesting Bird Cruise and the Wildlife Cruise. For more information, and timings. www.ilfracombeprincess.co.uk

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Squires Restaurant, enjoy fish and chips at Squires Restaurant, Braunton. No trip to the seaside would be complete without the classic dish of Fish & Chips. Squires is a family run restaurant, serving the highest quality fish and chips since 1969. www.squiresfishrestaurant.co.uk

The Old Schoolroom Craft Gallery is situated in the heart of the village next to the Church. The building was originally the village school, hence the shops name! Lee Bay is a beautiful unspoilt village with a sheltered beach – great for rock pooling at low tide. The shop stocks a wide variety of local crafts and artwork-amongst them are, lovely hand -made felt pictures from Caroline Baxter are made by wet felting wool and added elements such as driftwood.

Copper Jewellery by Anthea of Bees -Nees crafts, is made from recycled copper. Also for sale in the shop, linoprints pictures, paintings decorated glass . For more information visit: The Old Schoolroom Craft Gallery Lee EX34 8LW www.noonoo-art.co.uk

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The

Readers Gallery

Sue Outten, Instagram Enjoying a walk along the beach.

Zara, Oreo, Nile Pope and Joe Crawley.

Instagram.

Indya Wilkinson & Jordan Morris.

Woolacombe beach.

Maria Winslet, Instagram Jelly Fish and feet, Woolacombe beach.

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If you have ever taken a snap shot of Woolacombe or Mortehoe we would love to see it.

If you are a budding photographer, holiday snapper, or have photographs over the years you have lived here, we would love to share them in our Readers Gallery, photographs can either be sent to woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com or uploaded via our Instagram, Twitter or Facebook pages.

Paul Moore, Instagram The White House.

Dawn Stephen-Borg , Twitter Watching the waves

Kerry Cooper, Instagram Woolacombe Beach

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Sasha Cowley Liminton.

Twitter.

Libbie (age 3) and Leigha (age 2) .

Woolacombe Sands.

Anna Finch.

Oreo.

Woolacombe Beach.

Andrea Tesarova, Instagram.

Woolacombe Beach.

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Emma and Tomas.

Sue Grover and family.

Joanne enjoying the sea view.

Charlotte and Josh.

Forster and Grant family on Woolacombe Beach.

Stephen, Toni and James Gulley enjoying the terrace at Woolacombe Sands.

Ryan, Dawn, Layla and Stella enjoying Woolacombe Beach.

Steve, Shelley, Kenny and Myles Mackley.

Natalia Zakrzewska and friends.

Jay Elliot and family enjoying an ice cream!

Martin Smith and Bryony James.

#Woolacombeselfie

We would love to see your #woolacombeselfie please send to woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com to be included in our next in our next magazine

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The Changing Face of Appledore

By Joan Dixon of the Appledore History Soceity

The Appledore Historical Society was formed in 1995 by a group of Born-and-Bred Appledorians concerned that their village had changed so much in the previous twenty years that memories of their childhood and their parents’ and grandparents’ would soon be forgotten. http://www.iwasthere.org.uk/home

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rowing up in Appledore was a wonderful experience for myself and many others. As children we had great freedom and wandered where we chose. It was a very secure childhood, as we knew practically everyone that we met and they knew us and the family to whom we belonged. We played on the beach at a place called Badstep and on the breakwater where we played in amongst the large stones with all sorts of imaginary games. We had been told at a very young age that we must always be aware of the tide and what it was doing, so the breakwater was an ideal area as it had an iron ladder going up to the quay, so if the tide was rattling in rather fast as some tides do, then we could jump on the ladder and climb up to safety.

Our social life was mainly through the church and as soon as we were old enough we would start Sunday School then on to Bible Class and Youth Club. Sunday School Summer Outings were usually to Ilfracombe but we didn’t mind going there year after year as it was so different from Appledore, and something which gave us much excitement and pleasure The other highlights of our year would be The Regatta always held Bank Holiday Monday, the Carnival with many floats and walking characters which seemed to go on for ever, and of course Christmas Parties, always returning home with a small present off the tree plus an orange.

Another thing that we took for granted at the time was that not many of our mothers’ worked so we always found them at home after School or when we came home from playing, we never gave it a second thought that one day many mothers would be forced to go out to work to subsidise the family income. Our parents never had much money, but as a family we were quite content with our lifestyle, holidays were few and far between and if taken would usually be spent with relatives who had moved elsewhere, going abroad was never even considered.

“There were 45 shops in Appledore thus making us completely self sufficient” I know readers will find it difficult to believe but back in the forties and fifties there were 45 Shops in Appledore thus making us completely self sufficient, many were just front room shops selling a small number of groceries or sweets, but there were also larger one or two selling clothes and shoes also a very posh hat shop.

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here were also vans that would call at our houses one selling bread and cakes, another one with meat, plus a local farmer selling vegetables and fruit, and I mustn’t forget to mention the Clovelly Herring man, there was great excitement amongst the ladies when he arrived, there was always a long queue to his van waiting to be served, everyone here seemed to enjoy their herrings and more importantly they made a very cheap meal. I think they were about 6d each.

“Appledore has always been known as a working Town” Appledore has always been known as a working Town mainly because of our Shipyard plus 3 or 4 smaller boatbuilding yards in Irsha Street also our Glove Factory which employed approximately 200 ladies. In its hay day our dockyard employed about 500 men, not all from Appledore but also the surrounding area. The wonderful skills that these men possessed were passed on from father to son over many generations and a few years ago when there was talk that the Shipyard may close for good, sadness was felt by everyone that if this happened these skills would eventually be lost for ever. I remember just a few years ago watching HMS Scott going off on her maiden voyage, many like me had a lump in their throat or a tear in their eye knowing that she was built by local men, husbands fathers, brothers and sons. She certainly looked a wonderful site as she made her way down the river. Thankfully at present things are looking good for our Yard we have just completed a contract for the Irish Navy and are hopeful for an order to build a Polar Research Vessel. Of course we must not forget Appledore’s oldest occupation that of Salmon fishing, when I was young there were numerous boats licensed to fish for Salmon, it was great to see them all setting off to their various points, and later when in bed to hear the swish of the salmon tails as they were pulled up the hill past my house, but now sadly there is just one license being issued, and in time even that will go as licenses cannot be transfered.

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s I wrote earlier Appledore has always been a working town - but sadly we are now losing that title and are rapidly becoming a huge tourist attraction - a real honey pot for those looking for a different kind of break, I feel in a very short time we could easily become another Padstow or St Ives. Having lived here all my life I am not sure how I feel about this change but at present as they say I am just going with the flow.

n i t u o s y a Family D n o v e D h t Nor tions

ac Theme Parks and Attr

nning Big d laughter. The award wi an n fu th wi ed ck pa be the n al attractions ca al attractions, a day out at im an of s lot as ll A day out at one of the loc we As . joy. fun for the whole family r the whole family to en fo es iti Sheep attraction is full of tiv ac or tdo ou d rides and indoor an BIG Sheep is also full of www.thebigsheep.co.uk sq ft of indoor ather. With over 110,000 we the r ve ate wh , es ag so tions to suit all , family day . There are tic tas fan a is rk The Milky Way has attrac pa me the .co.uk tivities, The Milky Way fee! www.themilkyway e nc tra fun & acres of outdoor ac en the in ed lud L the rides are inc many things to do plus AL bumpy frame, with tubes slides, y pla el lev 4 ge hu a is a for under 3’s ars of age, Funderzone o a specially dedicated are als For children under 12 ye is ere Th re. mo ch bridges and mu slides, ball cannons, rope ne.co.uk to enjoy www.funderzo , nostalgic , full of eclectic treasures be om rac Ilf to se clo e, rdens.

Victorian Castl beautiful landscaped ga d an , as are Watermouth Castle is a y pla d an es me park including rid rience displays and curios, a the unique and magical expe a s fer of d an es ag all r Watermouth is suitable fo om www.watermouthcastle.c

Free Days out

North Devon is ho me to some wonde rful stretches of co The beach is best kn astline, Barricane own for its exotic Beach is no except shells, which have The beach also ha ion. travelled all the w s its own cafe whi ay from the Caribbe ch serve mouthwat is a great place to an. ering Sri Lankan cu spend the day. Woo rries in the evenin lacombe and Saun for traditional sunb g. This ton provide long st athing and sandcast retches of golden sa le building. If you why not try the Ta nds want to do somethi rka Trail, named af ng a little more ac ter Henry William cycle route is a won tive, son’s ‘Tarka the O derful way to expl tter’ story, this 290k ore some of North hired locally or yo m Devon’s nature an u can enjoy a walk d scenery. Cycles along some of the found on Page 12. can be tracks. More inform ation on the trail ca n be Mortehoe Museum is a family friendly museum set in the village, on sunny da heart of the ys children can en jo y the outdoor play an The museum is ho me to some interest d picnic area. ing local history an www.mortehoem d memorabilia. useum.org.uk. If you would like to a little bit more ab know out the North Dev on area, why not vi The Museum of B sit arnstaple and Nor th Devon? It is a gr way to find out mor eat e about the interest ing and diverse history of the area . www.devonmuseu ms.net

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Rainy Day

The rain c an easily r uin attractions . The awar any day out by the s easide, so d winning alongside , Ilfracom why not b the harbou e prepared be Aquariu r and is a w insight into with some m can be fou onderful a the wonde ideas of in nd in the O tt raction for rs of the aq fish it’s a f door ld Lifeboa all ages. A uatic world un and edu t H v o is u c f s it a o e please visit tional all w und locall to the aqua y in North e www.ilfra Devon. Ho rium provides an combeaqu ather day out. To rea If you are me to over d more ab arium.co.u feeling a li out the fac 75 species ttle more c k all ages, an ilities and of reative, wh d is a fanta e x hibits on o y not visit stic place makes a u ff ‘ P er to aint a Pot’ nique souv in Braunto enir of you spend a few hours c Lets go! is n. The stud reating yo r holiday. an indoor ur own pe ios welcom www.pain centre, wit r s t o e a n pot-braun al piece of h ten pin b well as pro t o o p w n o tt .c li e n o r g .u y ; a k it also n viding fac ilities for K d a state of the art sk www.letsg ating ring, araoke par obarnstap ties and a a le.co.uk snooker clu s b.

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Days out with Animals

zoo is set in the m around the world. The fro ife ldl wi ing nc rie von. pe y out ex best small attraction in De the ed Exmoor Zoo, enjoy a da ard aw tly en rec s h Farm, which untryside and wa Sheepdog tales” Boroug ist beautiful North Devon co “M es fiv l ne an Ch it plays. vis or why not sheepdog and falconry dis r fo on as se www.exmoorzoo.co.uk ay lid ho in worth selected dates in the ma nstrations which are well mo de is open to the public on of n tio lec se ng sti a fun and intere David Kennard produces ra arm.co.uk Dinosaur Park makes fo d an e visiting. www.boroughf lif ild W tin ar M gardens Combe mber of Set in 28 acres of tropical visitors can see a large nu ys pla dis d an ks tal of schedules ark.co.uk great day out. With daily ! www.wildlifedinosaurp rs! s au os din the se ur co leading honey farms, thi ins ita animals and of Br of e on is ’ ard be me of the ‘bee es in the bee world Quince Honey Farm, ho t up close to the honey be ge to u yo s ow all n tio family run attrac oneyfarm.co.uk exhibition. wwwquinceh

Educational Days out Days out with the family can be edu cational as well as fun! We have sele cted a few ideas for days out that have an educational theme. Treaur e Trails are a fun and educational way to explore Devon. The trails are a self guided themed walk which will have you exploring the are a.

The re are 52 trails around different towns and villages in Devon.

You can download your own trail and information pack at www.treasuretrails.co.uk. The Nation al Trust’s, Arlington Court makes for a lovely family day out, once the Chichester family estate, it has plenty to see and do, including the Horse and Carriage Musuem. You can download a guide to exhibits prior to visiting at www.n ationaltrust.org.uk. Arlington also hosts a number of events thro ughout the year which can be great fun and informative for all the family. Have a day in Lynton & Lynmouth, visit the cliff railway and enjoy the stunning views over the North Devon Coastline, wh ilst in Lynmouth take the time to visi t the Flood Memorial hall, it is free to visi t and is dedicated to the 1952 flood disa ster. www.visitlyntonandlynmouth.com www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk

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Woolacombe 10K Beach Run by David Ludlam This was the section that caused The undulating path offered little respite from the sun and the tailwind was now a head-wind. A sharp hairpin turn to the left and we were back facing south and heading downhill diagonally across the dunes back towards the beach.

The Woolacombe 10K Beach Run took place on Sunday 14th June For various reasons I’ve been looking forward to this event for a while; 1) Its held on the No.1 beach in Britain, the 5th best in Europe and the 13th best beach IN THE WORLD. 2) Its also within North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

3) Its held in our spiritual home and visiting annually is never enough, so this bonus is most welcome.

4) Its the setting of choice for our old friend Mike’s 50th celebration, coinciding perfectly (or imperfectly) with the 10K run.

The run itself was spectacular, and the first long stretch to Putsborough, the small hamlet at the southern end of the beach, also offered a tail wind. The three of us soon became separated as our individual paces locked in and when we reached the sharp track climb off the beach I was still feeling human. The track however was 20% in places, and despite taking little paces and being determined to keep running I had others walking past me. I therefore walked.

The next section (heading north) offered a stunning view north of the bay with Morte Point in the distance.

The first water station offered a cold drink. I took a second and poured it slowly over my head. Nice.

On this descent, sections of which were technically demanding due to its gradient ,the running became increasingly difficult as our feet sunk ankle deep and slid in random directions at every step. I tried running on a narrow bank of harder sand and vegetation to the left, sometimes bounding over the right side bank. It was proving a beneficial strategy until something from the path-side vegetation stung my knee. Whatever flora or fauna it was, my knee still throbbed with heat and irritating stinging sensation 12 hours later-the only sign however was a light-red broken blemish just above the knee. If it was the common ‘stinging nettle’ then it was of the most venomous strain.

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loved running through the dunes, despite its difficulties and I was slightly disappointed to be jettisoned back onto the beach with its cushioned but firm rippled surface By now I felt I had already run 10K. and the constant running on sand was taking its toll. We continued to head away from the finishing line, running to the furthest rocks of Baggy Point, which we followed to the shore before turning north for the final time and heading home.

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me most grief. A 2.5 mile run into a head-wind. It became unbearably dull, with only a famous large rock outcrop that emerges from the dunes and the equally famous beach huts supplying any kind of visual marker.

The illusion of closeness was cruel

and it often appeared as if no progress was being made. As the rocks were eventually passed, it was still difficult to pick out the beach huts despite the fact that I knew they were there.

The distances played havoc with my mental state and I needed to adopt a sustainable strategy.

I remembered the advice of a Portsmouth Triathlete: when cycling up long difficult hills that stretch out forever,stop looking forward and look down at the road just in front of your bike. Look up now and then.

I started looking at the sand just ahead of my foot falls and not where the finish line might be.

Suddenly I heard Graham and Sarah who had kindly left their beds to come and cheer us in. There was the finishing tunnel. The commentator from on the tanoy read out my number and my name. I’d done it.

10K of beach and dunes Thanks to the Compass Rotary Club of Ilfracombe for organising the event and good luck to its main beneficiary: the British Heart Foundation. Thanks also for all the marshals for their encouragement and water provision.

Bull Point Lighthouse

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ull Point lighthouse is situated in Mortehoe. It was originally constructed in 1879, to guide vessels navigating the North Devon Coast.

The plans for the lighthouse started in 1876, when two engineers from the Board of Trade visited the coastline around Morte with the view of ascertaining the most serviceable spot for the erection of a lighthouse. They favoured Bull Point, and a roadway was planned from Morte to the Point. The estimated cost to build the lighthouse, the road and cottages for the keepers was £10,000.

However the decision to build the lighthouse at Bull Point, rather than at Morte Point was a controversial one, that many local mariners disagreed with. Morte Stone was considered a danager to vessels in the area, with many people being killed here, when upto fifty vessels could be passing the stone, bound from the Channel. The mariners believed that many “could always weather Bull Point” but talked of Morte Stone “as the dreaded spot, which is difficult on a dark night”.

The decision, however, fell in favour of Bull Point, and this is where the lighthouse was eventually built. Mr George Knott would become the first principal lighthouse keeper based here. The Knott family, had manned lighthouses for generations, and are believed to hold the record for longest continued service of manned lighthouses from one family. George was the fourth generation to man a lighthouse, he started his career at South Foreland. George was well known for his wooden carved models of the lighthouses he worked in, the model of Bull Point Lighthouse is believed to be in Plymouth Museum.

(above): George Knott and his carved wood lighthouse models.

The opening of Bull Point Lighthouse was reported in the London Gazette on the 10th June 1879 on 30th n, that oint will e iv g e is ll P a r notic on Bu Furthe lighthouse light will be ute), e e in June th the light. Th iple half m ut (tr bo n turn o white light flashes of a e g d flashin 3 successiv each divide of g s n d in o n ti w o a o c r h e u s s d conds about three ill also e s o f tw w feet rvals o d light by inte s. A fixed re hthouse, 18 rte o g s darkne n from the li ht to mark M ill w g w l li o a h n g s be shin d sig the fla lasts og hor below powerful f ing three b A giv Stone. stablished e e b . o fog als heavy during

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t was the 18th September 1972 when the keeper of the lighthouse reported ground movement, particulary in the engine room. He observed that 2 fissures were opening, which caused him some concern.

In the early house of Sunday 24th September, 15metres of the cliff face crashed into the sea, with a further 15 metres subsiding steeply causing deep fissures to open along the boundary wall. Walls cracked and the engine/ fog signal station partly collapsed, leaving it in a dangerous condition and putting the fog signal out of action.

A temporary tower, which had been in use at Braunton Sands and had been given to the Nature Conservancy, was borrowed back and the optic installed on top of it. This tower was used at the Bull Point It was Lighthouse o memb rginally int ended ers of the Tr for nearly two that th were a int e t last, in Plymouth o y Board wh n Satu o years, until Trinty compa rday of Wa ny wi le th Edinb s and the D the Prince House erected a ur uk to Bul gh, should e of steam l Poin new tower further to ro inspec t the n n Monday, und ew lig and and de inland. htho clar

he lighthouse was use th e it op to the finally opened in June ere ened ro been p ugh weath , but owing e ostpon r the v 1879, there was no formal isit ha ed.

The lighthouse s proceedings to the opening. was designed and The final building of the built so that all the lighthouse was done by Mr R. equipment from the old T. Hookway of Bideford and came lighthouse was utilised in just under budget at just over and after some modification made, £7000. The buidling consisted of a this was completed in 1974 at a cost block of dwellings for three keepers of £71,000 and is currently in use. It and their families, a fog signal was fully automated from completion. horn, tower, oil store, general store, The diaphone foghorn was switched piggeries and office. The fog signal off in 1988 and the lighthouse was was worked by a pair of caloric automated in 1995. The site can be engines manufactured by Brown & visited by an adjacent public footpath.

Co of New York and the lantern and The old lighthouse keepers’ cottages light were manufactured by Chance are now being let out to tourists as Brothers of Birmingham. self catering holiday establishments.

Like all buildings slight modifications and updates were made over the years, with a foghorn added in 1919 and then electrified in 1960. The lighthouse continued to operate without any major incidents, until 1972.

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Woolacombe and World War 2

“I recall we could count nine rows of breaking surf, and would be lulled to sleep by the sound of that magnificent surf, the clouds would sweep up over Lundy Island, and the Devon sun set behind it.

I’ll remember Devon as it was when we had that war to flight” Paul W. Thompson 1989

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oolacombe, and the North Devon coastline played a significant role in the events that took place during the D-Day landings in World War 2. Woolacombe today is best known by many as a beautiful seaside resort, it is difficult to imagine it as a home to thousands of American Soldiers, but that is exactly how this area would have looked leading up to events that took place in Normandy in 1944. D-Day, the 6th June 1944, saw 156,00 troops land on five beaches along a 50 mile stretch of France’s Normandy coastline, the aim, to gain a foothold in Europe and ultimately to defeat Adolf Hitler.

This ambitious plan, required training and planning. On the 1st September 1943 the Assault Training Centre (ATC) officially opened. The U.S Army located in Woolacombe, taking over this town with their Assault Training Centre. Many of the troops bound for the centre, believed they were going to Wales. Information they had been told as a ploy to keep this large training operation from enemy ears. The headquarters of the ATC were based at The Woolacombe Bay Hotel, and soon this picturesque coastal area saw thousands of troops and tanks move in. Over ten thousand troops were reported to have passed through the ATC during its six months based in the area. Woolacombe beach was altered into a training base, with demolition training areas designated and billets created. The northern part of the beach was designated as a demolition training site, and the billeting area of tents stretched towards Mortehoe. Morte Point, itself was used as a target by anti-tank guns and seaborne artillery.

Paul W. Thompson an Engineer Lieutenant Colonel, who ran the training centre, reflected later on the decision to use Woolacombe Beach for the Normandy training.

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he influx of so many people to the area caused both excitment and reluctance from local residents. Mr. Cotton, a local resident felt that: “The confusion and explosion noises of almost constant maneuvers are turning Woolacombe into a nightmare for residents”

(above: Granite Memorial dedicated to the American Soldiers who trained in Woolacombe)

“It turned out we were lucky beyond measure, the surf, the tides, firmness of sand and flatness of beach of those northern Devon beaches bore an uncanny similarity to the same qualities of the Normandy beaches over which we would ultimately launch the invasion. I never think of my Assault Training Centre without feeling thankful to the British for giving us that wonderful Woolacombe Site, ideal for realistic training”

Others fondly recall adventourous play as children in the area, or the American Troops bringing them sweets and other luxury items that were difficult to obtain during the war. The Red Barn, known then as the Bungalow Cafe, hosted evenings of entertainment for the soldiers, whilst the ballroom at The Woolacombe Bay Hotel would host Saturday morning film shows, put on by soldiers for the local children.

Woolacombe was considered ideal, due to its resemblance to Omaha beach in Normandy. Initial ideas for Thompson to evacuate the whole area giving him free rein, were soon disregarded and the process of integrating such a mass influx of soldiers on a small coastal community began.

Local farm land was soon acquired for training, and houses and hotels in the town soon became requistioned by the War Department, with The Pandora Hotel becoming the U.S forces military hospital. The troops left, as quickly as they had arrived, but their time in Woolacombe will never be forgotten by those who lived in the area at the time. The granite stone memorial, on the Esplanade looking over the beach, is dedicated to the American Soldiers who were based in the area.

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he beaches and sand dunes were soon occupied by soldiers, and with them came the construction of camps to accommodate so many people, and the make shift fortifications and pill boxes that were required for training. The infrastructure to accommodate the practical needs of so many people started to take place, the construction of roads, sewerage facilities and even the diversion of water from the River Caen to provide fresh water into a concrete reservoir.

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ake a moment, to imagine this beautiful landscape with aircraft flying overhead, the sound of machine gun fire, mortars going off and landing craft coming along the sands. Soldiers in full kit, where today you see sunbathers, families playing and dog walkers strolling along the waters edge. Woolacombe played a significant part in the events of World War 2, we are hoping to develop a website containing information about the events that took place during these years. If you have any information you would like to add or share with us, we would love to hear from you.

Molly & Woolly’s Adventures Molly and Woolly have been very busy since we last saw them. They would love to tell you all about their adventures and share some of their photographs!

Woolly and Molly had a great day out visiting Rosemoor, they especially loved seeing all the Alice in Wonderland Statues in the gardens and visiting the vegetable patch. Rosemoor is a 65 acre garden with lots of things for the whole family to enjoy.

This enchanting garden was given to the Royal Horticultural Society in 1988, it is home to a large collection of plants in a variety of designed gardens, meaning it is a great place to explore, interact and learn whilst having fun.

Woolly and Molly always visit Barnstaple when they are on holiday in Woolacombe and Mortehoe, the reason they love to go is to try and find “Star Hayman the duck and Barrie”.

Barrie Hayman and his pet duck have been entertaining people in Devon for many years since Star was born in 2011. The pair raise money for Childrens Hospice South West, and love to spend some time talking to you. So if you are in the town, please go and say hello!

You can pick up a children’s trail Woolly and Molly tried to chat leaflet from the entrance desk, they to Star but they don’t have the have different versions for each technique like Barrie! Star just season. Rosemoor also has special looked at them and walked off! play areas, picnic spots and natural dens making it a perfect family day You can read all about Star and out.

Barries adventures in their book, Visit our website to read more about available on Amazon.

Rosemoor and to see Woolly and Mollys photograph album from the day. nd the oking arou lo ally enjoyed ted to see Peter d Molly re ci ex y er v e Woolly an . See and wer , ch at or’s garden hen p g le re cG M r vegetab M etables w ing away in llowing veg fo Rabbit hid e th f o find any if you can : it you vis arrots 1) C abbage C 2) ettuce L 3) adishes R 4) , where he Onions e cabbages th 5) d n fi to aged Woolly man ld be funny to hide. ou w it t h g thou

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Woolly always loves to visit the National Trusts’, Arlington Court when he visits North Devon. The beautiful country estate used to be the home to the Chichester family who are very well known in Woolacombe and Mortehoe. The house was built a long time ago in 1823 (can you work out how many years ago that was?).

The house has a musuem with horses and carriages, but Woolly and Molly’s favourite place is the vegetable garden. On this visit they found the house for the bees and insects.

Woolly and Molly visit Woolly the Bear at Woolacombe Sands Holdiay Park “Woolly Bear has the same name as me!!” Woolly squeaked to Molly.

Meeting somebody with the same name really excited Woolly, so when they first met at Woolacombe Sands, Woolly was surprised that such a big bear was scared of such a tiny little mouse. The lovely team at Woolacombe Sands reassured Woolly Bear that there was nothing to be frightened of and he soon became happy to play with them, although he was a little bit naughty and did try to eat Molly!

They had lots of fun on the stage under the bright lights, they felt like real stars and were very sad when it was time to leave, as they had made such good friends with Woolly the Bear.

Even the human who had taken them to visit, was a little bit sad to be leaving this big cuddly, fun bear.

Woolly and Molly met Betty Beach Ball at Woolacombe Bay Golden Coast “We are going to play with a beach ball today” squealed Molly, really excited that she was going to be playing beach games!

When they arrived at Woolacombe Bay Parks, she was looking everywhere to see the games, and beach ball she would be playing with. Woolly and Molly first played golf on the miniature golf course, and both tried to climb the climbing wall, which was tricky for two such small mice. They walked around the caravans to see if they could see the beach ball, but could not find anything.

Then Woolly heard some noise coming from the club house, so went to investigate, he couldn’t believe his eyes! There in the middle of the room was the biggest beach ball he had ever seen, there was no way that Molly and Woolly would be able to play ball games with this beach ball!

Betty Beach Ball was very friendly, and let Woolly and Molly climb on her gigantic feet, can you see them peeking out? Betty had been busy blowing up balloons for the children, we would love to see your photos with Betty when you visit her. www.woolacombe.co.uk

Follow Us Woolly & Molly love to go on all sorts of adventures and meet new people. You can follow them on twitter @WoollyMollyMice

Woolly and Molly have been busy taking photos for their new postcard. They love building sandcastles on Woolacombe Beach, by the beautiful beach huts. They hope to have this photograph from their last holiday made into a postcard very soon!

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Woolly and Molly would love to see your drawings of them, or your favourite place by the seaside woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com

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Zig Zag Word Search Puzzle Find all the words from the word list Words go left, right, up, down, not diagonally, and can bend at a right angle. There are no unused letters in the grid, every letter is used only once.

ANT BEE BEETLE BUG BUMBLEBEE BUTTERFLY CATERPILLAR DRAGONFLY

FLY GRASSHOPPER LADYBUG MOSQUITO SILKWORM SPIDER WASP

SPOT THE 10 DIFFERANCES

BEE FACTS Bees help our food crops they play an important role in the food chain.

Bees are pollinators, one third of our food would not be available without bees.

Bees are in danger of disappearing, we can all do our bit to help them survive.

Bees are the only insects that produces food eaten by humans.

A hive of bees will fly 90’000 miles.

WHO CAN FIND THEIR WAY TO THE FLOWER?

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Mortehoe Scarecrow Festival 2015

Scarecrows have been used for thousands of years to scare away birds from eating farmer’s crops. The Eqyptians are first thought to have used scarecrows in their fields along the river Nile. Today scarecrows are still used by farmers, however these iconic figures are often at the centre of village ‘scarecrow festivals’. These festivals are often themed, and are a great bit of fun to visit or take part in.

Woolacombe Tourist Information Centre and Mortehoe Museum have generously sent their photographs of the recent Mortehoe Scarecrow Festival.

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Contributions Do you love Woolacombe & Mortehoe? Do you have a story or memory you would like to share about the area?

If you would like to write for our magazine, or a blog for our website we really would love to hear from you.

We are happy to consider any ideas as long as its relating to Woolacombe or Mortehoe, it can be past or present or future.

Here are some of the articles we will be featuring in future editions that you may wish to contribute to, however this is only a sample list, and we are happy if you would like to add to it with your own ideas: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Shipwrecks in the area Holidays with Children Weddings in Woolacombe & Mortehoe Local History Woolacombe at War Dog friendly holidays in the area Walks along the coastline The Chichester family The development of Woolacombe & Mortehoe Best places to go on a rainy day Woolacombe & Mortehoe Railway station Memories of growing up in Woolacombe & Mortehoe

Get in Touch We always love to hear from you, if you want to get in touch, you can in all of the following ways: Follow us on twitter @WoolacombeVoice

The twitter site is dedicated to anything related to Woolacombe & Mortehoe. Sharing photos, events, news, anything goes as long as its related to the area! Give us a follow.

FInd us online

Follow us on Facebook: Woolacombe Mortehoe Voice

We share a number of old and new photographs of Woolacombe & Mortehoe on our Facebook site, most of these are from our extensive local postcard collection. We would love to share photographs you post of the area.

We are also online at www.woolacombemortehoevoice.wordpress.com

Follow us on Instagram WoolacombeMortehoeVoice If you have a photo of Woolacombe or Mortehoe you would like to share with us, please use #woolacombemortehoevoice all photos on instagram automatically get displayed on our website gallery.

The website is constantly evolving with blogs and features being added to regularly so keep going back and read the latest articles.

www.woolacombemortehoevoice.wordpress.com

If you would like to write a blog for our website please get in touch, we would love to consider any article or blog about the area.

Please get in touch if you would like to contribute to the site in anyway, we would love to hear from you.

woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com

Any ideas, requests or feedback on any of our features please drop us an email.

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NEXT ISSUE

Out 1st December 2015

Woolacombe is home to iconic beach huts, do you know their history?

Getting married in Woolacombe or Mortehoe? Be inspired with our wedding guide.

Read about the adventures of Sloop the Seagull. The author of this wonderful book tells us more about Seagull who is scared of the sea.

Woolacombe’s special, Barricane Beach.

...............plus many more articles 36