Woolacombe & Mortehoe Voice Issue 6

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Issue 6 June 2016

Woolacombe & Mortehoe Voice Character of Our Coast

The James Ravilious Collection

North Devon AONB Learn more about the great work they do in the local area

William De Tracy & Mortehoe

Local Museums to Visit Discover the regions rich heritage

Geocaching

Lundy Islanudtcrop

The high tech treasure hunting craze

nite o This little gra er. has a lot to off

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CONTENTS

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Lundy Island

Positioned in the Bristol Channel, 11 miles off the North Devon coast, this little granite outcrop has a lot to offer.

6-7

Beach Fun

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Combe Martin

10 - 12

Reader’s Gallery

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My Mortehoe, My Woolacombe

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The People behind the Names

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Geocaching

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The Coastlines of Woolacombe and Mortehoe have many beautiful beaches, we have a guide of how you can make the most of them!

Located on the edge of Exmoor National Park, Combe Martin is steeped in history and has some very unique local traditions.

A wonderful selection of photographs, from our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites.

Ruth shares her memories of the area and tells us why Woolacombe and Mortehoe means so much to her.

Continuing our series into the names etched on the Mortehoe War Memorial, we discover more about Alfred Henry Toms.

A high tech treasure hunting game that is not only fun but allows you to discover the local area in a whole new way.

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e m o c l e W

Welcome to the sixth issue of the Woolacombe and Mortehoe Voice magazine. As Summer approaches, we delve into some of the fun activities you can do in the area, with Woolacombe’s beautiful 3 mile stretch of golden sands there is plenty on offer right on the doorstep. For those who want to explore the landscape a little more, why not try geocaching? The high tech treasure hunting hobby that is increasing in popularity. We take a look at what is involved and where you can enjoy this in Woolacombe and Mortehoe. We would love to hear from you if you decide to give it a go.

Woolacombe and Mortehoe are located in the North Devons Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), we find out more about the work they have been doing, and how you can get involved. We also learn more about the Character of our Coast project, which is fascinating project that looks at rarely seen local photographs and demonstrates the impact that people and climate change have had on the local landscape.

Happy Reading Lorna Weston (editor)

16 - 17

Gateway to Paradise

18 - 19

William De Tracy

A touching look at Woolacombe in 1935 written by a visiting journalist.

The interesting link between William de Tracy, who murdered Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral and Mortehoe’s St Marys Church.

20 - 21

Local Museums

22 - 23

Things to do

24 - 25

Events

26 - 27

Character of our Coast

28 - 29

North Devon AONB

30 - 31 32 -33

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The area has a rich and interesting heritage, we take a look at some of the local museums you can visit.

I0 things you can do locally when vsiting the area.

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A comprehensive list of local events.

A new exhibition of rarely seen historic and contemporary photographs.

Find out what the North Devon AONB have been doing in the area.

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National Trust In News

A round up of the latest Woolacombe and Mortehoe news.

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Puzzles

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Contacts

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LUNDY N

orth Devon is a spectacular county, boasting an array of amazing places to visit including the island of Lundy. Positioned in the Bristol Channel, 11 miles off the North Devon coast, this little granite outcrop has a lot to offer.

Storm petrels have recently begun to breed on the island, a sign that the island’s Seabird Recovery Project has been a great success. The project began with the eradication of the island’ s rat population for 2002-2004 allowing the island to be designated as ‘rat-free’ in 2006.

The Landmark Trust rescue historic buildings at risk and, once restored, offer them as inspiring places to stay. In 1971, the trust took over the lease of the island (owned by the National Trust) and has restored many unique and memorable places to stay on Lundy from a castle keep to a 19th Century Georgian mansion. The range of properties available on the island gives the opportunity for everyone of any budget to stay. Every visit to the island, even if for just a day, is an amazing unique adventure. Even the journey here is a new experience for many. From April to October the island can be reached on our supply ship MS Oldenburg (who has a story of her very own,) from Ilfracombe or Bideford, and from November to March, staying visitors arrive by helicopter from Hartland Point.

The island’s rich flora creates carpets of yellow, purple and pink during the summer season as the endemic Lundy Cabbage, Bird’s-foot Trefoil, Sheep’s Bit Scabious and sea Thrift come into bloom. One species, the Heath Spotted Orchid, can be found in the marshy areas of the plateau. Here you will often come across some of our larger animals, particularly the Lundy Ponies, Soay sheep, Highland steers and Sika deer.

These animals roam north of Quarter Wall to assist with our conservation grazing scheme which is in place to enhance the island’s Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The waters around the island are also protected through a Special Area of Conservation, Marine Conservation Zone and No Take Zone. Together these designations conserve and enhance the spectacular marine life that is found in such a unique location and includes species such as pink sea fans, cup corals, cuckoo wrasse and our mischievous grey seals. The wealth of habitats, wildlife and wrecks attract hundreds of divers every year and many visitors join in our Snorkel Safaris to get a taster of the rich life that can be found under the waves.

Built in 1958, MS Oldenburg operated as a ferry operating from the German mainland to the Friesian islands until 1982 when she was bought by the Warrings family who ran the ‘Butter-Cruises’. These duty-free cruises ran until 1985 when the loop-hole, which permitted their operation, was closed and the opportunity to buy MS Oldenburg for Lundy was taken by the Landmark Trust. MS Oldenburg has been our supply vessel ever since and can hold up to 267 passengers who make use of the buffet, shop and bar whilst sitting on deck or within the foredeck saloon with its large windows creating a panoramic view.

Lundy is renowned for its wealth of marine and terrestrial wildlife, particularly as it is home to the largest seabird colony in the southwest and has its own species, the Lundy Cabbage. During the summer breeding season kittiwakes, fulmars, guillemots, razorbills and puffins can be found across the west and north coast of the island. At night, Manx shearwaters return to the island and many visitors enjoying listening to their melodic calls as they return to their burrows.

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Humans have lived on Lundy since Neolithic times and have left behind many historical structures that provide us with clues as to who lived here and when. Many of these have been designated as Scheduled Monuments to protect and conserve them, and the whole of Lundy is a Heritage Coast. The most notable of these include the Old Light, Marisco Castle, Fog Battery and Brazen Ward. Each historical structure has its own story to tell and, as with Landmarks across the UK, all of the letting properties have significant stories of their own.

To find out more visit www.lundyisland.co.uk or see our Facebook pages: The Landmark Trust – Lundy and Lundy Conservation Team. Guided walks and illustrated talks are available throughout the year whilst Rockpool Rambles and Snorkel Safaris take place during the summer.

Woolacombe is a popular destination for family holidays and short breaks; with 3 miles of golden sands Woolacombe’s award winning beach has plenty on offer, as does the rest of this stunning coastline.

From Croyde Bay to Rockham beach, to Lee Bay’s wonderful rock pools and of course never forgetting the unique shell beach of Barricane, there really is something for everyone. So why not spend the day exploring and making the most of these beautiful, natural places to visit?

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Make the most of the beautiful coastline Make the most of all that Sand!

Enjoy a picnic

With so much golden sand on offer, why not try making your own sand sculptures? Woolacombe Beach used to host a sand sculpture competition, where unique and wonderful structures were created, so why not try to do your own? Perhaps build a boat or a car big enough to sit in, or perhaps a ‘sandman’ rather than a snowman.

Alternatively, why not play Sand Hopscotch? Using a stick or rock draw a grid on the sand and use rocks or shells for markers. Another fun thing to do, using the things you find on the beach is to create your own sand art, we have attempted our own, but hopefully you can be a little more creative, we would love to see your photographs!

Woolacombe and Mortehoe has many idyllic settings for a picnic, whether for the whole family or just a romantic picnic for two watching the sun set .

If you are planning a picnic, why not make the most of the abundance of local produce on offer to take with you. Lower Campscott farm in Lee Bay is open every day offering a large selection of local produce, including apple juice made from their own orchard, or make a trip to Barnstaple’s pannier market where you can find a host of local suppliers with everything from local chutneys to home-made cakes and pies. If you don’t want to make your own picnic why not try one of the street food events in Barnstaple? Street Food on the Square, has an event every Thursday in Barnstaple. Alternatively, Barricane Beach café is well known for its delicious curries, so grab a blanket and enjoy the sun setting over Lundy Island whilst you tuck in!

Rock Pooling

Games A family day at the beach is never complete without some traditional games. You can have a lot of fun at the beach simply splashing in the waves or digging holes in the sand, however if you are looking for something else to do why not try some of the following ideas? Create your own mini golf course using things you find on the beach, or play a water bucket relay.

On windy days, why not buy a kite and have a go at keeping it up in the air long enough, there is nothing nicer than watching the kite soar into the air! Visit Barricane Beach, perfect for collecting shells, and creating your own artwork from your finds! See how many different types of shells you can collect, we would love to hear how you got on!

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One of the best way to discover more about this coastline, and the wildlife it is home to, is to go rockpooling.

Both plants and animals that live in these habitats can be interesting and fun to find. Due to its location along the Atlantic Coast, Woolacombe and the surrounding areas are fully exposed to the weather, following storms an abundance of marine life is bought to the coves and shores of this area. Barricane, Combesgate and further afield at Lee Bay all benefit from this, and as a result are home to many wonderful rockpools. It is important when rockpooling to respect that these are natural habitats to creatures and wildlife, you should never prod or poke the marine life, and must always replace any rocks that you move as these provide safety and shelter to these wonderful creatures.

You should also be aware of tide times, and in summer months be careful of Jelly fish as they can sting!

COMBE MARTIN C

One of Combe Martin claims to fame is it is reported to have the longest main street in any village in the Country, which is over two miles long. As the village grew it was easier to continue building along the narrow valley rather than along the slopes, hence this unusually long main street. Some say that those who live at one end of the street believe they live in the countryside and not by the sea.

ombe Martin is located on the edge of the Exmoor National Park only 12 miles from Woolacombe, set in a wooded valley, and with a lovely cove it is a popular place to visit.

It’s name derives from the word ‘Combe’ meaning a wooded valley, and ‘Martin’ from the Norman family who are believed to have inherited the manor from William the Conquerors supporters.

The environment around Combe Martin, in particular its limestone outcrops meant that the area has a number of lime-kilns which date back to around the 17th Century.

The lime was then used to improve the fertility of the soil.

In 1870-72, John Marius Wilson’s Imperial Gazetteer of England and Wales described Combe Martin as: “a small town, a parish, and a sub-district in the Barnstaple district, Devon. The town sits in a deep romantic glen, opening into a small cove on the Bristol channel, 4 miles east of Ilfracombe, and 10 North East of Barnstaple railway. station; extends irregularly to a length of about 1½ mile; was made a market-town about the year 1264, but has long lost its market; is a seat of petty sessions; and has a post office under Ilfra-Combe, an inn, a parish church, three dissenting chapels, and an endowed school.”

Combe Martin’s main economy used to be in the growing and processing of hemp and flax used to make rope and sails. It was also known for silver mining, and the village built a reputation for silverware. One of the earliest records of Combe Martin Silver mines was found in 1294, when it was recorded that 337 men were brought from the Peak, Derbyshire to work the mines. In the Elizabethan period the Combe Martin mines took on a new lease of life and they made a considerable revenue. You can still see some of the old remains of the mines that were crucial in the lime and silver trade.

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For those visiting today, an interesting Grade II listed building to look out for is the ‘Pack o Cards Inn’, built in 1626 by George Ley it is said to be built following a large win at card playing. The Inn has 52 windows, believed to represent the number of cards in a pack and has four floors (representing the number of suits in a pack), with 13 doors on every floor (number of cards in a suit) .

oday, the seaside town which sits in a valley, has something on offer for everyone. Enjoy a day by the sea, rockpooling, kayaking, fishing or walking along one of the stunning coastal paths, for the more adventurous why not try coasteering, rock climbing or horse riding.

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Combe Martin holds a number of events each year, one that is very unique to the area is the:

Hunting of the Earl of Rone

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he Hunting of the Earl of Rone is one of over 500 unique customs that take place at various times of year throughout England. Banned in 1837, for licentiousness and drunken behaviour, the Hunting of the Earl of Rone was revived in 1974. Over the four days of the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, the Grenadiers, Hobby Horse, Fool and villagers hunt through the village for the ‘Earl of Rone’, finally finding him on the Monday night. He is mounted back-to-front on a donkey and paraded through the village to the sea. He is frequently shot by the grenadiers and falls from the donkey only to be revived by the Hobby-horse and Fool, re-mounted on the donkey, and carried onwards to his fate. At the final shooting on the beach, he is not revived, but thrown into the sea.

Local legend says that he was Hugh O’Neill, Earl of Tyrone, who was forced to flee from Ireland in 1607 and was shipwrecked in the local bay known as Raparee Cove. There is no historical evidence that Hugh O’Neill ever landed in North Devon and history tells us that he actually reached Spain and lived out his life there, so why he should become the focus of the custom is a mystery although there are plenty of theories!

Perhaps the locals were celebrating the defeat of a famous contemporary outlaw by a local landowner, a Chichester, who was the sovereign’s Lord Deputy in Ireland at the time. Perhaps the Irish population in the village, who worked the mines, were in sympathy with O’Neill and his attempts to have Ireland ruled by the Irish. Some people think the custom is the last remnant of mediæval May Games, others like to think that it is a pre-Christian, pagan, green man custom that has survived with the O’Neill legend attached to it. The Earl of Rone is seen as a scapegoat by others. People believe what they want to believe whether there is evidence or not - even those who take part have different ideas.

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hatever the history, none of it actually determines what happens these days. What The Hunting of the Earl of Rone definitely is, is Combe Martin celebrating itself! The custom is run by a council of villagers, but any local from Combe Martin, or the surrounding parishes of Berrynarbor, Trentishoe and Kentisbury, is welcome to dress up and join in. Visitors are also welcome to come to watch and enjoy the festivities but, as tradition demands, collections are made throughout the weekend and once costs have been covered, surplus money is donated to good causes in the village.

For more information about Combe Martin visit: www.visitcombemartin.com

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Readers Gallery If you would like to have your photograph of Woolacombe or Mortehoe included in the next magazine please email: woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com or tag us #wmvphoto on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.

Donna Gray

Beverley Littlewood

Jennifer and Maggie the dog

Jason Carr

Looking towards Morte Point from Woolacombe. Keith Guy 10

Carly Bishop

Sean Dullingham The Eiffel Tower comes to Woolacombe

Ian Carter

Dion Hunt

Dan Knapman 11

Jennifer Starbuck New Years Day swim!

Oreo enjoying Woolacombe Beach

Natalie Cumbers

Adam Cumbers 12

My Mortehoe My Wooalcombe My name is Ruth, I am now in my 20’s however, I have been coming to Woolacombe and Mortehoe since I was a child. It is the only holiday destination I have been to and I wouldn’t change it for the world! Woolacombe and Mortehoe have many special memories for me, and as yet I have never found anywhere else quite like it. The tranquillity of this beautiful North Devon coastline should not to be underestimated but should be talked about for the amazing place it is.

Woolacombe and Mortehoe have something for everyone you have just got to find how it suits you! The sea air, the countryside, peacefulness, an exciting yet calm atmosphere, a welcoming retreat and home, somewhere to surf or take a bike ride, or just your relax and enjoy a typical family holiday. Before you know it this area will have captured your heart. It is so special to me because of the memories it holds, as soon as you first see the sea to the feel of when you get into the town. I even met an exchange girl who had travelled many thousands of miles and we happened to the meet the very next year by chance!

One of my favourite pastimes is building sandcastles on Woolacombe beach, I love the professional sand sculptures you sometimes see here, and to see the handgliders overhead is absolutely amazing. I have always wanted to have a go at that! Really don’t think I could do that though.

I vividly remember holidays at Woolacombe for the rock and the ice cream, not to mention the scones and sand! As I got older I was introduced to the history of the place, its connection to World Wars, how Grunta beach got its name and the story of the headless horseman. The area then started to take on a whole new light and made me fall in love with it more. It is amazing to hear about World War 2 and how so many people landed on the beach where people holiday today. It is important that these facts are not forgotten, and I love to hear about the recreations that are held on the beach to commemorate the events that happened and the led up to the D Day landings. The legend behind Grunta Bay getting its name, when a ship of pigs became wrecked here and all the pigs were set free, this story has always amused me! Then last but not least the headless horseman, that story amazed me he seems to love Woolacombe himself to think what he went through yet he still roams the sands.

When I first used to go the area as a child, we would stay at Twitchen Caravan Park. I would love getting ready to go to the club to see Sammy the Seahorse, who used to have his own theme song, anyone who doesn’t know that song I would be happy to show you the cassette yes cassette you could buy from Twitchen house shop! As a child there was nothing like taking piece of rock back for your class and been utterly proud of where you have been and what memories the holiday has created. I was even known to write holiday diaries to show everyone!

I could write so much more about why Woolacombe and Mortehoe are so special to me, hopefully I have caught the essence of how important this place is. I could write endless stories about this scintillating and dazzling place, it is truly a gem in the crown of the UK. It should never be forgotten just loved.

Woolacombe and Mortehoe truly have everything!

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The People Behind the Names Alfred Henry Toms

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lfred Henry Toms was born on the 28th January 1866, he was the son of Samuel and Sally Toms of Barnstaple. Samuel Toms married Sally Gribble on the 10th June 1844, both aged 21, at this time Samuel was working as a confectioner and Sally as a domestic servant.

Their first son, William Samuel Gribble Toms would be born in 1847, followed by Charles in 1851, Ellen in 1853, Clara in 1855, Frederick in 1857, Mary in 1859, Albert in 1863, then Alfred, who would have one yonger sibling, William in 1881.

When Alfred was aged 13, his father was summoned to court in respect of his schooling, Samuel was represented at court by his wife Sally, who said the Alfred hadn’t been at school as he had been kept at home by illness of his father, an order was made requiring Alfred to attend school immediately at Holy Trinity, Barnstaple.

In 1881 aged 14, Alfred and his family were living at Lower Church Street in Barnstaple, where Alfred is said to be employed as a chain maker, his father is still employed as a confectioner.

At 18 years of age, Alfred enlisted with the Royal Navy, his documents describe him as being ‘5ft 3, with brown hair, having a fair complexion with brown eyes and tattoos on his forearms.’

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lfred served aboard many ships, and his records indicate that he was of good character. A life in the Royal Navy gave Alfred a chance to travel, and the 1901 census shows Alfred with the Royal Navy in Vancouver.

In 1902 Alfred was employed at the Barnstaple Electric Light Station.

On the 20th November he would be the victim of two accidents on the same day, and on both occasions he would be taken to the North Devon Infirmary. In the morning he was treated for a cut on the head, and not long afterwards he reappeared at the institution with his left foot severely injured through a very heavy weight having fallen upon it. It was found that a bone of the foot was broken and on this occasion Alfred was detained.

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n 1905 Alfred would marry Mary Ann Newcombe and start his married life living at 7 Adas Terrace in Mortehoe. Alfred was now employed as a postal worker in the village, the following year they would have a daughter Hilda May Toms.

His mother, and two brothers would die before Alfred saw active service during World War 1.

Alfred was called to the Royal Navy during the First World war, as a 1st Petty officer aboard HMS Vivid, where he would die of disease on the 24th May 1918, and would be later buried in his home town of Barnstaple. His name is inscribed on the Mortehoe War memorial where he was living at the time of his death.

(Opposite) Grave of Alfred Henry Toms.

(Below) Ada’s terrace, Mortehoe where Alfred would live with his wife.

GEOCACHING If you love a treasure hunt, you should give geocaching a try. eocaching is a real world, high tech, treasure hunting game that uses GPS to navigate set coordinates.

By following the coordinates you attempt to find the geocache (a container) hidden at that location. It is a great way to see an area, while adding a bit of fun for the family. Be warned it can become quite addictive!

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Geocaching was conceived in around 2000 when the advent of GPS made finding the exact location of something much easier. The first documented placement of a GPSlocated cache took place on May 3, 2000, by Dave Ulmer of Beavercreek, Oregon, and since then it has become a worldwide hobby.

In recent years Geocaching has become incredibly popular, as it is relatively cheap and with widespread access to apps with GPS services and the internet it has made this activity flourish.

Find you nearest Geocache using one of the many links or internet websites.

You can also use apps on your phone.

A typical “cache” is a waterproof container containing a logbook with a pen. The geocache can also be filled with other types of memorabilia.

When the geocacher finds the container they add the dates and their code names.

Navigate to the location that is given using GPS Once you find the Cache, sign and date the accompanying log book and put the cache back exactly how you found it.

A great website to find out more about Geocaching is: www.geocaching.com

Geocaching was originally similar to the 160-year-old game letterboxing, which uses clues and references to landmarks embedded in stories.

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ortehoe has a number of caches hidden, one of these being a ‘multi cache’, meaning one location gives a clue to the next, with the final point being where a physical container can be found. Other caches can be found along Morte Point, which is a lovely way to see the coastal landscape whilst having a bit of fun.

Of course you don’t have to just take part in finding a geocache, you can hide your own. In order to do this you must read and obide by some rules which can be found on the various geocache websites.

If you decided to give Geocaching a try, please let us know, we would love to hear how you got on, and perhaps write about your experiences for our magazine, or send a photo of yourself with the ‘cache’ for our readers gallery.

Gateway to Paradise Trickling stream that divides two worlds Friday 25th Jan 1935

By S. P. B. Mains

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s I am for the greater part of the year moving rapidly about the English country – I always make it a rule to spend one month just pottering about the beach at Woolacombe.

on my shorts and relaize that for a month at least I shall go tieless and neckless, and a fourth as I greet old habitues in the lane that leads down to the shore.

I choose Woolacombe because it is the home of my fathers, because its sand provide the best exercise ground for man, horse, and child that I know, and because it is equally easy to be sociable or solitary as the mood seizes you.

But the fifth and final skin is not sloughed until after I have passed the notice “No motors allowed on the beach,” and the ugly barn which bears in white letters on its slate roof the words “Ye Olde Boat House Tea Rooms.”

But I never count my holiday as begun until I have crossed the Woolacombe stream.

Several skins have to be sloughed before the holiday can really start.

One skin is sloughed as I board the Atlantic Coast Express, another as I look down from the heights of Mortehoe Station over the deep combe below to the distant dim outline of Lundy, and a third as I put

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ere the lane ends and the sands begin. A solemn ritual of shoeremoving, as if at the approach of the hallowed ground, is observed by everybody just before the tiny bridge that spans the insignificant stream. Everyone walks on the sands barefoot. It is an odd thing, but in all its long life no one has yet carved his or her initials on the white painted handrails of this gateway to Paradise.

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Above the bridge the shallow stream bed is festooned with old baskets and dented tin cans. Farther up the combe its banks are fringed with yellow musk. When I was a boy the scent from this musk used to permeate the lane with its thick, musty sweetness.

The flowers still bloom, but the scent has almost gone.

Below the bridge the stream becomes way ward and indecisive. Long before it reaches the sea it is absorbed by the sand but in fair weather, and when unmolested by damming children, it takes a more or less straight course.

When the gale blows it curls like a hot iron in the hand of a blacksmith, and children are forever trying to divert it from its purpose by cutting new channels for it.

They and the gale between them often succeed in dissipating its energies into a wide a feckless delta, making an archipelago of sand islands separated by water about a millimetre in depth.

This is no Rubicon to frighten event the most timid. Cinderella in her ball-room shoes could cross dry shod.

And yet this absurd trickling stream acts as the Great Divide between two absolutely different worlds.

I do not mean the merely snobbish worlds of the day trippers and the resident visitors, though that is strange enough.

On this side of the bridge I am sober, adult, indeed rather grumpy. Once I have crossed the stream I cut capers, I sing quite regardless of the presence or absence of other men, I leap frog, I fly kites, I dig sandcastles, I join games and abandon them, I become completely irresponsible, I roll down sand hills, play pirate, smuggler, anything that’s going, and dread the moment when I have to pack away the surf-boards, kites, balls, spades, chairs, and bathing things, lock up the hut for the last time, and return to the world of men.

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I am not alone in this. Every night for the last week I have been one of the last, in spite of gale, blowing sand, cold and greyness, to leave the beach.

But always there has been Elizabeth, loitering a little behind me, Elizabeth is twelve.

he day tourists from Ilfracombe or inland villages almost invariable stays on this side of the stream, contenting himself with the rocks and two or three hundred yards of sand that lie between the rocks and the stream. The regular visitor always avoids this congested area. He heaves a sigh of superior relief as he casts his shoes at the bridge and joins his own or other happy families assembled outside the line of a hundred white wooden huts, which are hired out for 25s a week.

Everything that really matters happens on that side of the stream.

Here the riders gallop past on their way to Putsborough, a couple of miles or more over the hard sands, at 6s an hour; here the red banner of the C.S.S.M (Children’s Special Service Mission) is flaunted bravely each morning above a pulpit of sand, and each afternoon by the touch line of a hockey or puddox match; here the smallest infants have their first donkey rides, and from here runs a never ending procession like bees from hives of surf bathers with their shining boards on their way to and from the sea.

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grudge leaving it for a day, even to explore Exmoor, or for a wet afternoon shopping in Barnstaple. I am reluctant to leave it even at night to dance at Instow, because it means leaving the twinking, friendly lights of Hartland and Lundy, and the roar of the breakers on the beach.

I will scramble over the high sand dunes behind the huts, and I will walk out to Morte Point of to the grand headland of Baggy because on these excursions I can keep Woolacombe always in view, and though I still feel angry with myself for allowing myself to be lured from the sand pit that I have dug in the very heart of the white hut-land, and envious of those who have had the good sense to stay there, I can still see the haven where I would be. I can get back to it.

This morning as I was going down I met her on the bridge coming up in floods of tears. Children contrive to hurt themselves a good deal even on the sands, so I was prepared to commiserate; perhaps even rub the hurt place well.

But when I climb out of the valley to Mortehoe and the train I am miserable.

“ I’ve got to go home,” she moaned.

“It’s the end of the holiday. I can’t leave it. Oh I can’t leave it.”

It cannot be the whortleberries and rich cream, it certainly is not the weather. It is some mysterious way linked up with this stream, which appears to have neither source nor mouth, but yet acts whenever I cross it as a reminder that halcyon days lie on the farther side of it and the halcyon days are to be snatched while we can.

Those tears were the highest testimonial to the lure of Woolacombe and even I, after all these years of it, find parting from it no easier.

Once beyond the stream some magic wands seems to be waved, and our natures change. I am a great reader and fairly hard worker, but no book that I have ever taken over the bridge gets read. And my manuscript gets filled with sand, never with ink. I definitely suffer a sand change.

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“I know no other place that grapples me in this way to its heart with hooks of steel.”

William De Tracy and Mortehoe

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ocal legends suggest that St Mary’s Church in Mortehoe houses the tomb of Sir William de Tracy, who is known best for the part he played in the murder of Thomas Becket.

The tomb carries the inscription to ‘Sir William de Tracy’ with the upper marble slab having a figure of a priest in full vestments, with a chalice on his breast. Others believe that the tomb may be that of a rector of the Church with the same name.

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homas Becket was born around 1120; he was the son of a prosperous London merchant. At the time of Thomas’s birth, Medieval England was ruled by the church and its views. The fear of going to Hell was very real and people were told that only by going to a Catholic Church, could your soul be saved. At this time, the most important position in the church in England was the role of Archbishop of Canterbury.

The Archbishop and the King of the country would work together, however, a King was unable to remove a Pope from his position, the Pope could remove a King by excommunicating him, leaving his soul to be condemned to Hell.

People of England struggled at times between their loyalty for the King or to the Pope. This was the case with Thomas Becket and the then King, Henry VIII.

n 1162 King Henry appointed his long-time friend Thomas Becket to the role of Archbishop of Canterbury.

At this time the church ran its own courts, allowing any member of the church to be tried by the church rather than a by a royal court, the church courts often gave lesser punishments something Henry felt he could change with the appointment of his friend Thomas Becket.

He hoped that Becket would do as he wished and toughen the sentences; this was not to be the case. The role of Archbishop changed Becket; he no longer followed his luxury lifestyle and started to favour the simpler things in life. Slowly, a rift formed between the two former friends.

Thomas agreed less with Henry and famously following an incident where Becket had betrayed Henry, The King is reported to have shouted

“Will no one rid me of this troublesome priest?”

Four knights heard this, believing that The King wanted Becket dead.

Reginald FitzUrse, William De Tracy, Hugh de Marville and Richard le Brey rode to Canterbury to carry out this deed.

On December 29th, 1170 the four Knights killed Becket in Canterbury Cathedral.

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The four conspirators, Reginald Fitzurse, Hugh de Morville, William de Tracy, and Richard le Brey, entered the cathedral.

The three knights struggled violently to put him on Tracy’s shoulders. In the scuffle Becket fastened upon Tracy’s shoulders, shook him by his coat of mail, and, exerting his strength, flung him down on the pavement Fitzurse, glowing with rage waved the sword over his head, cried, “Strike! Strike!” but merely dashed off his cap.

Meanwhile Tracy, who since his fall had thrown of his hauberk to move more easily, sprang forward and struck a more decided blow. Grim, the monk, who up to this moment, had his arm around Becket, threw it up, wrapped in a cloak, to intercept the blade, Becket exclaiming,

“Spare the defence!”

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he sword lighted on the arm of the monk, which fell wounded or broken, and he fled, disabled. The next blow, whether struck by Tracy or Fitzurse, was only with the flat of the sword, and again on the bleeding head, which Becket drew back as if stunned, and then raised his clasped hands above it. He said, “Into Thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.” At the third blow, which was also from Tracy, he sank on his knees, his arms falling, but his hands still joined as if in prayer. In this posture, he received from Richard le Brey, a tremendous blow aimed with such violence that the scalp or crown of the head, which it was remarked was of unusual size, was severed from the skull, and the sword snapped in two on the marble pavement. This story differs from those of the several writers of English history, insomuch, that Tracy simply put his hand on him, and arrested him in the name of the King, but did not strike him; but he was killed

by Fitzurse. Before Becket died he put a curse on Tracy’s family, a water curse. His family will always have too little or too much water.

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ope Alexander would excommunicate the four Knights and banned Henry from taking mass until he completed his penance. He would be absolved of Beckets murder and continued to reign until his death in 1189.

What happened to William De Tracy?

It is thought that a tomb which lies in St Mary Magdalene’s Church in Mortehoe could be that of William de Tracy. The tomb carries the inscription “Sir William de Tracy”, with a life size figure of a priest in full vestments, holding a chalice is incised on the marble upper slab.

The inscription is much defaced, but was recorded thus by Tristram Risdon (d.1630): “On whose mangled monument I found this fragment of a French inscription, in this ancient character: ‘Syree William de Trace-Il enat eeysMeercy”.

The family of De Tracy were Lords in Barnstaple; therefore it is possible that De Tracy should seek refuge in the area, where his relations were powerful. Morte was a likely place as it gave an opportunity for further flight to Lundy, Wales or Ireland where the King at that time possessed little authority.

Locally it was reported that De Tracy fled to the area hiding in a cove west of Illfracombe, it is thought he stayed here for two weeks being visited and fed by his daughter.

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He is then believed to have retired to an old farmhouse in Mortehoe, where he lived out the rest of his life.

So is the tomb that of Legendry Sir William de Tracy? Or could it be the William Tracy said to have been a rector in the parish in 1322?

Some writers believe that on returning to the area de Tracy did in fact become a priest and is buried in the church with his wife and daughter, others report his restless soul haunts the beaches of Woolacombe.

Museum of British Surfing

Museums to visit

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he Museum of British Surfing is located in Braunton. It won a national museum’s award and had more than 3,000 visitors through its doors in just the first three months of opening.

Mortehoe Museum

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he Mortehoe Museum is a family friendly museum located in the heart of Mortehoe Village. Located within a Grade II listed barn, owned by The National Trust, the museum shares a wealth of information about the area and its rich heritage. The upstairs of the museum houses displays covering local life, shipwrecks all the way through to the development of the tourism trade and farming skills seen locally.

Entry to the museum is free, although a donation is suggested to help with the running of the museum. On warmer days visitors can enjoy the outdoor picnic area and children’s playground. In the summer months the museum is the starting point for trailer and tractor rides which can be taken to Bull Point Lighthouse or around the stunning Mortehoe coastline.

Contact: Mortehoe Museum, Mortehoe, Devon, EX34 7DT www.mortehoemuseum.org.uk

North Devon Maritime Museum Appledore

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ituated in the pictureseque village and sea port of Appledore, the North Devon Maritime museum offers a fascinating insight into the rich shipbuilding and seafaring history of the area.

In seven exhibition rooms, visitors can discover the WWII beach landing experiments, sail and steam vessels, shipwrecks and more. We have an authentic Victorian Schoolroom where you can experience life from a Victorian pupil’s perspective. We welcome group visits and we also have excellent facilities for researchers.

Contact: Odun Rd, Bideford, EX39 1PT Phone: 01237 422064 20

Surfing has taken place on the area’s beaches since the early 1900s, The bulk of the Museum of British Surfing’s collection was purchased between 1997 and 2012 by Pete Robinson, and donated to the charity as his founding gift. In the last few years it has been boosted by many public donations of surfing and beach items, and now has the most extensive and historically significant collection of vintage surfboards, literature and memorabilia on public display and for academic research in Europe.

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t has developed as a flexible and innovative museum – each year you’ll see a new themed exhibition at the venue which will then go on tour around the UK. Alongside this we have smaller outreach displays and regular events at The Yard and other locations in North Devon and beyond, featuring music, film, art and culture.

There is a special focus on young people and those who might never have been to the coast – the museum plan to take them to beach and the collection ‘on the road’!

The Yard Caen Street Braunton North Devon EX33 1AA 01271 815155

Barnstaple Museum

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arnstaple Museum is the perfect way to find out more about North Devon.

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lfracombe museum was founded in 1932 by professional museum collector Mervyn G Palmer, who spent many years in South America studying and collecting the wildlife and archaeology there. When he retired to Ilfracombe he discovered that the town lacked a museum, and so he formed a committee, and Ilfracombe museum was opened to the public on the 1st August 1932.

Thousands turned up that day and many of them brought objects to donate to the growing museum collection.

Eighty-four years later and Ilfracombe museum is still amazing visitors with its unique and eclectic collections. It is a museum that reflects the Victorian passion for collecting, and also Ilfracombe’s importance in the history of British sea-side resorts. There are eight rooms filled with treasures including drawers of butterflies and insects from Britain and South America and artefacts from India, Africa and the ancient world. Two rooms are dedicated to local maritime history and Lundy island.

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lfracombe museum is unique and family-friendly. Children can explore the insect, bat and spider specimens, have a go at a dinosaur quiz, send Morse code messages, or have a go at brass rubbing. Visitors with disabilities will find the museum is accessible to wheelchairs (except for one small room).

For researchers there are extensive photographic and family history resources for Ilfracombe, including original town newspapers The museum is a perfect all-weather attraction and can be found next to the Landmark theatre on Ilfracombe sea-front. It is an independently funded charity. Children under 16 FREE, £3 for adults, £2.50 concessions. Annual ticket £5.00. Open everyday April - Oct 10am - 5pm.

Ilfracomb e Museu Wilder Rd m Ilfracomb e Devon EX34 8AF 01271 863 541 21

The collections and displays cover the natural and human history of this beautiful part of the country. Highlights of the Museum include the Tarka Gallery, the Story of North Devon and the Regimental Collection of the Royal Devon Yeomanry.

The museum includes a Gift Shop, Tearoom, Tourist Information and Visitor Reception.

With a packed program of temporary exhibitions and events, there’s something for everyone.

Entry to the museum is FREE! Contact: Museum of Barnstaple & North Devon, The Square, Barnstaple, EX32 8LN TEL: 01271 346747

Things on 1. Enjoy a National Trust Walk. The National Trust have designed a number of walks to be

enjoyed around this beautiful coastline, taking in the wonderful scenery and allowing some of the best vantage points in the area. From enjoying the seafront to hiking to Morte Point, there is something for everyone. For a list of detailed walks provided by the National Trust please visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/walks-around-woolacombe

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Visit Woolacombe’s “The New Gallery”, why not treat yourself to a unique and locally crafted piece of art from the New Gallery in West Street, Woolacombe. The gallery sells a number of local artists work, and has some wonderful paintings depicting numerous local scenes. A lovely gallery, and it’s also dog friendly!

Summer Sizzler BBQ at Mortehe Museum. Why not enjoy a lovely night in Mortehoe, at the Museums Summer sizzler BBQ. Starting at 5pm on 22nd August, the museum’s BBQ will be held at Mortehoe Village Hall.

There will be a licensed bar, raffle, cakes and entertainment.

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Watermouth Castle, visit one of the West Country’s premier Family Tourist Attractions where you can enjoy, a Victorian Castle full of eclectic treasures, nostalgic displays and curios, a theme park including rides and play areas, and beautiful landscaped gardens. www.watermouthcastle.com

Ilfracombe fishing trail follow the eight interpretation boards that form a trail starting at St Nicholas Chapel, round the Pier, along

by The Aquarium, round the harbour ending up at the commercial fishing area by the Cove. There are two leaflets available, one explaining the boards more fully and a second more interactive one for children with quizzes and games. www.visitilfracombe.co.uk/fish-trail1

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to do holiday 6.

Lundy Island is a 400 foot granite outcrop in the Bristol Channel with tremendous views of sea and mainland. You can stay at Lundy island, or simply visit for the day. Although only three miles in length, and half-a-mile wide, the Island offers an amazingly diverse range of things to do for day-trippers. Its 4,000 years of human history comes to life through the 42 scheduled monuments and its clutch of listed buildings. Because of its isolation the habitat for wildlife is often compared to that of Galapagos. This is all set against a backdrop of stunning natural rugged beauty, making it a walker’s paradise. Most day visitors travel on Lundy’s own ferry and supply ship, the graceful German-built MS Oldenburg, which is an experience in its own right.

Sailings can be made from Ilfracombe or Bideford.

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Take part in the big beach clean. Join the National Trust Beach Rangers for a Sunday morning breath of fresh air and help do your bit to spruce up this gorgeous beach. All welcome on this regular weekend event and all equipment will be provided. Why not bring the family and dog as well?

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Castle Hill Gardens. Castle Hill house and gardens are steeped in history and are, and have been for centuries, a home to the Fortescue family. Today it is loved and cherished by the Earl and Countess of Arran and is a wonderful North Devon visitor attraction. Why not bring the family for a picnic and let the children run around and explore in our family friendly 50 acre garden near South Molton. www.castlehilldevon.co.uk/gardens

Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinasaur Park Set in over 28 acres of spectacular, sub tropical gardens within the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Park is an independently family run business. With a daily schedule of Free Shows, talks, encounters and a number of ‘Animal Experiences’ to enjoy, we encourage close interaction with our knowledgeable keepers and some truly magnificent animals. www.wildlifedinosaurpark.co.uk

Enjoy a Tractor Ride from Mortehoe. Mortehoe Museum and The National Trust offer tractor and trailer rides around the coast. The Museum takes visitors to Bull Point Lighthouse, whilst the National Trust head to Morte Point taking in some of the beautiful coastline. Perfect way to get to see the coastline and the lighthouse! For more information please visit: www.mortehoemuseum.org.uk/trailorrides.html 23

June - August

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nd June (13:30 –15:00) Family Garden Fun –National Trust Arlington Court Visit the National Trusts Arlington Court and join a gardener to learn how we care for our gardens and create something special to take home.

Please contact 01271 850296 for further information.

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th – 19th June Oceanfest Croyde’s popular music and sports festival is back, 3 days with over 20 bands and a wide variety of competitive sports make this a sell out event. The line up is already impressive, to find out more and to book your tickets please visit the Oceanfest website www.goldcoastoceanfest.co.uk

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th June (06:00 – 08:30) Spring Deer Walk, Exmoor Take a walk with local ranger, Marcus where you will hopefully see the deer with their young calves.

Whats On

Booking is essential, please call 01598 763402

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th June Woolacombe 10K Run If you fancy a challenge, set within stunning views, this beach run could fit the bill! The run is over mixed terrain; firm sand, tarmac and sandy paths.

For more information, and to register for your place please visit: www.woolacombebeachrun.co.uk

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th – 19th June Ilfracombe Victorian Celebrations Join the people of Ilfracombe for this much celebrated event. please visit their dedicated website:

www.ilfracombevictoriancelebration.co.uk

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th June AONB Marathon The North Devon AONB Marathon and Half Marathon has quickly established itself as one of the most challenging and visually stunning events in the UK. The coastal route is tough, which is part of the appeal, and the scenery is incomparable.

For more information please visit: www.northdevonhospice.org.uk

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th June Sheepdog & Falconry displays The Borough Farm sheepdog and Falconry displays started on May 27th at Borough Farm, near Woolacombe and Mortehoe. They will continue each Wednesday evening until September 2nd. The sheepdog show will be performed by David Kennard, and for the falconry display we will be joined again by Exmoor falconer George Pile, with his array of Hawks, Owls and Kestrels.

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th June Clovelly Gig Regatta The West Country boasts a long tradition of racing pilot gigs. Gig racing is exciting and strenuous, with crews reaching speeds of 9 knots in North Devon’s powerful tidal waters.

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th July Ilfracombe all things Morris Each day of the weekend has a major themed event. From Morris Dancing through to the artist William Morris!

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th July (11:00 – 12:30) Dune wildlife walk – National Trust From golf clubs to army tanks, orchids to Dartford warblers, there is much more to Woolacombe sand dunes than first meets the eye.

Stop and take a closer look at its fascinating secrets on a gentle walk with our beach rangers and discover what lies beneath your feet.

The fun on Saturday starts at midday and there will be dancing around the seafront and harbour all afternoon.

Saturday afternoon also sees the second North Devon Street Food Awards sponsored by Marsdens Devon Cottages On Sunday the dancing starts at 11.30 and also includes Fore Street which will be closed for the day and after the Morris dancing finishes there will be local musicians performing.

Sunday sees our classic & vintage vehicle show ‘Morris & Friends’ all along the seafront from 11am with presentation of prizes at 3pm.

Call 01598 763402 for further information.

You’re assured an exhilarating day’s racing. So come along and cheer on the brave crew.

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st July (18:00) Outdoor Theatre Midsummer One of Shakepsepare’s best known plays which follows the romantic th July (10:30-11:30) fates of four couples. Throw in Express Beach Clean a touch of magic, some ribbauld Join our Beach Rangers for a Sunday humour and a beautiful woodland morning breath of fresh air and help glade setting, and the scene is set for do your bit to spruce up this gorgeous a great night’s entertainment. Illyria beach. All welcome on this regular perform the uncut play with only weekend event and all equipment will five actors sharing the roles. This be provided. Why not bring the family performance is held in association and dog as well? with the Plough Arts Centre, Torrington.

Call 07557 938 399 for further information Call 01805 624624 to book.

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th July (12:30) Croyde Rockpool Ramble Coastwise, Jim Monroe leds this Rockpool Ramble and walk, meeting at Baggy Point National Trust carpark and using slipway opposite Sandleight.

Call Jim Monroe for further information: 07889 134466

If you have an event you would like to list on our calendar and in our magazine, please get in touch: woolacombemortehoevoice@gmail.com

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(Above): Above Combesgate, Woolacombe, January 2016’. Image courtesy of North Devon Coast AONB (c) Dave Edgcombe

The Character of our Coast

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he Character of our Coast is a new exhibition of rarely seen historic and contemporary photographs demonstrating the impact of people and climate change on North Devon’s coastal landscape over the past century.

Beaford Arts and the North Devon Coast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) have researched their photographic archives to illustrate the changes to present a “now and then” display, supported by funding from the AONB’s Sustainable Development Fund.

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he photographic exhibition can be seen from 2nd – 5th June at Holy Trinity Church, Westward Ho! as part of the Westward Ho! Festival. Beaford Arts and the North Devon Coast AONB will link the past with the present, to help us learn about and consider what we want for our coastal landscape in the future.

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Beaford Archive background

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he work of much loved photographer James Ravilious is widely known. For seventeen years James, who died in 1999, worked as a photographer-in-residence for the Beaford Centre, creating a detailed document of the landscape and communities of rural north Devon during the 1970’s and 1980’s.

The James Ravilious collection is a body of over 70,000 negatives now stored in the Beaford Archive, only a small proportion of these have been digitised and are now publicly available through the Beaford Archive website.

Working closely with his colleague George Tucker, James re photographed images dating back as far as the late 1800’s, building what is now known as the Beaford Old Archive. “James recorded the memories of the people who gave him the images,” says Kathryn Burrell, Archive Manager at Beaford Arts, “but those recollections were often partial, which has resulted in limited amounts of detail of many of the images”.

Contribute to our Coast

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s part of the project, Beaford Arts has launched an online duplicate of The Character of our Coast exhibition to provide a platform for public discussion. “We want to invite people to tell us anything they may know about the Archive images, so that we may build a more detailed historical resource of our unique coastline” says Kathryn. As a test case for this, the Beaford Old Archive image ‘Seaweed Gatherers at their work, Appledore, date unknown’ was posted on the Beaford Archive Facebook page. The only information held was that given in the image title.

Thanks to over 30 comments it is now known that the photograph was taken at Badstep at the top of the Appledore Lifeboat Slipway and that the ladies in the image were named Mary Duck, Hester Screech and Mary Tune. One contributor also informed the Beaford Archive that the laver the ladies would have been carrying in their sacks goes rather nicely with fried bread and crispy bacon! The Beaford Archive would love to hear from anyone who can contribute further knowledge or information to the images and comments can be added to the photographs in the Contribute to our Coast album at: www.facebook.com/ BeafordArchive/

The AONB perspective

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he special qualities of the AONB’s coastal landscape have been under recent scrutiny with the completion of a formal Seascape Character Assessment. This considers the natural and human interactions with land and sea, to create the distinctive character of the coastline.

The photographs and descriptions produced for this work highlighted to the team some significant changes to the landscape during the 50 years since its designation.

“I was looking for a way of starting a wider conversation with the people who live and work along the North Devon and Torridge coasts about the future of our coastline,” said AONB manager Jenny Carey-Wood.

“Technical documents aren’t for everyone and planning discussions can be contentious, but people love images of places they know and many would be surprised to see what has changed and why over the last 20, 50 or 100 years.”

From his work on the Seascape project and liaising with the Beaford Arts team to identify key coastal photos, Dave Edgcombe, AONB Project Officer noticed two distinct changes over the last century, “Whilst in many places little may have appeared to have changed, in some areas such as the coastal resorts, there has been significant landscape change as these settlements have literally sprung up. Natural changes due to climate effects such as storms, cliff falls and sea level rises can be clearly seen from the images in the James Ravilious Collection and the Beaford Old Archive compared with today’s images.”

“The James Ravilious Collection is a valuable heritage resource. Whilst it is very much about people in the landscape, rather than a study of landscape with people, it provides a good ‘snapshot’ in time about how we used and enjoyed the coast of North Devon some 30 to 40 years ago. Some people will notice little change, whilst for others a whole way of life and work has changed.

Exhibition Partners

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eaford Arts is the UK’s longest running rural arts organisation and in 2016 it is celebrating 50 years of supporting rural creative development across northern Devon.

Through a programme of touring events and education projects, Beaford Arts works with communities across 1350 square miles of rural north Devon bounded by the Atlantic sea and moorland, providing access to high quality arts experiences. Work developing the Beaford Archive aims to further support the culture and heritage of rural communities throughout the region. Visit the James Ravilious Beaford Archive online at www.beafordarchive.org.uk and the Beaford Old Archive at www. beafordoldarchive.org.uk North Devon Coast AONB has been a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ since 1959 in recognition of the spectacular coastal area and special qualities within it.

The area covers 66 square miles and stretches from Combe Martin on the Exmoor coast to Marsland Mouth on the Cornish border. The work of the North Devon Coast AONB team is guided by a 5 year Management Plan overseen by the AONB Partnership, which includes representatives from national, regional and local agencies, local authorities, voluntary organisations and local community representatives.

For further details see: www.northdevon-aonb.org.uk

‘People, donkeys and carts above Combesgate on the old Woolacombe - Mortehoe Road, date unknown. Beaford Old Archive Image (c) Beaford Arts

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North Devon Coast AONB

The North Devon Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a stunning coastal area which is Seascape Character Assessment nationally protected for the beauty of its landscape. It is at the heart of North Devon’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and covers 171 km sq of the coastal landscape from Marsland Mouth on the Cornish border to Understanding the special qualities and reasons for designation of the AONB Combe Martin on the boundary of Exmoor National Park. has been made easier with the recent completion of a Seascape Character Assessment for North Devon and Exmoor. This provides additional evidence Beach Cleans Seascape Character Assessment This provides additional evidence for for local organisations and residents when assessing proposed developments and residents when that might affect the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty orlocal theirorganisations setting The great work done by the Understanding the special qualities assessing proposed developments that (such as the Taw Torridge Estuary, nearby towns etc.). community and fishers to clean, and reasons for designation of the might affect the Areas of Outstanding survey and remove marine litter AONB has been made easier with Natural Beauty or their setting (such A seascape assessment looks at the landscape from the sea and the land, from our beaches through the Clean the recent about completion of a Seascape as the Taw providing more information the character, value and meaning of Torridge areas. Estuary, nearby Marine project can continue with Character Assessment for North towns etc.). support from the TescoSee Bags of Help Devon and Exmoor. more about it at: scheme. A massive thank you to all A seascape assessment looks at the www.northdevon-aonb.org.uk/landscape_and_environment/seascape of you who voted for us in the local landscape from the sea and the land, competition held in Tesco stores providing more information about the across North Devon. We have won character, value and meaning of areas. £12,000 towards this important work over the next year continuing to work See more about it at: with beach lovers, communities, schools and businesses. www.northdevon-aonb.org.uk/ landscape_and_environment/ As well as the seasonal beach cleans seascape and surveys, we will be promoting regular ‘2 minute beach cleans’, A local partnership of the North supporting extreme beach cleans on Devon Coast AONB, National Trust, our remoter beaches and getting more North Devon Council, Torridge Check out our Facebook page or schools down on the beach to clean, District Council, Devon County Events on our website: learn and enjoy what the AONB’s Council and Exmoor National coasts have to offer. For those of you Park Authority funded the work to www.northdevon-aonb.org.uk who knew Natalie Gibb, she has gone complement the existing Landscape @explorethecoast on to an amazing job with Cornwall Character Assessments for the area.

Wildlife Trust and Cornwall College, Keep in the loop, or sign up for so Kate Weld is helping us with beach future activities. cleans for now.

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Coastal Creatures of the AONB The main delivery partners alongside the AONB team are Coastwise North Devon, the National Trust, Northam Burrows Country Park and Combe Martin Sea School.

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e have just obtained grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Tesco Bags of Help to support a two year project called ‘Coastal Creatures’.

The project focuses on the diverse marine and coastal natural heritage of the North Devon Coast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It will provide citizen science opportunities to identify, record, enjoy and learn about the varied flora and fauna of these diverse intertidal and coastal habitats.

The project’s activity will focus on four beaches along the AONB coast with a range of habitats and species that are suitable for different audiences, learning levels and styles (Northam Burrows, Croyde Bay, Lee Bay and Combe Martin).

This will support mass and targeted surveying of coastal species to increase our knowledge, establish new wildlife groups and develop linkages between local natural history collections and the natural environment.

An education and interpretation officer will work with schools, community groups, volunteers and partner organisations to organise a range of species identification and recording training and specialist surveying techniques.

Beach cleans will reduce negative impacts on coastal wildlife and leave coastal habitats in a better condition.

Learning materials and interpretation about coastal wildlife will provide an ongoing legacy to sustain a culture of wildlife recording, engagement and protection amongst those who live in or visit the North Devon Coast AONB.

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Summer fun in Woolacombe Our beach rangers will be working seven days a week over the summer holidays to keep the sand dunes and middle section of the beach looking spick and span. As well as maintaining the footpaths, keeping on top of the litter and helping wildlife with some habitat work, they will be selling ice creams and running more public events than ever before. It’s going to be a busy and fun summer. Can’t wait to see you all.

Dune Wildlife Walk Saturday 9 July 11am to 2.30pm

Golf clubs to army tanks, orchids to Dartford warblers, there is much more to the sand dunes than first meets the eye. Join a gentle stroll to learn more.

Booking essential 01598 763402 £3.

Rockpool Rambles Join the beach rangers and witness duelling limpets and aggressive anemones in the wonderful rockpools on Combesgate beach.

Booking is advisable on 07557 938399. Child £2

July Saturday 16, 10am

Thursday 21, 1pm

Sunday 24, 3pm

Sunday 31, 10am

Thursday 4, 1pm

Saturday 6, 2.30pm

Wednesday 17, 11.30am

August Tuesday 2, 12 noon Sunday 21, 2pm

Monday Madness beach games Cricket, volleyball, sandcastle-building, giant snakes and ladders, football and more. Bring your friends and come and have some free fun with the beach rangers. Look for our feather banners on Woolacombe beach beyond Mill Rock.

Every Monday from 18 July to 29 August.

Drop in anytime between midday and 5pm.

Express Beach Cleans Join us for a short and snappy spruce up of Woolacombe beach every Sunday morning, 10.30 until 11.30am from 10 July to 28 August.

Meet by Mill Rock, no need to book and dogs welcome.

We are proud to be supporting this event being organised by the Compass Rotary Club of Ilfracombe. Book your space at woolacombebeachrun.co.uk

@NorthDevonNT

North Devon National Trust

870555

Local news Woolacombe Tourist Informatoin Centre Revamp

Woolacombe & Mortehoe Tourist Information Centre has been in it’s current location overlooking the beach since March 1999. Times have changed dramatically over the years, whereby the grants and funding received from the local council and area Tourist Boards have disappeared completely (along with many TICs!), meaning that we have to be totally self-sufficient. We have been able to do that with the fantastic support we receive from local businesses joining the Woolacombe & Mortehoe Tourism Association, and through sales of gifts, tickets and bookings at the TIC, although it has been a struggle at times.

2016 has seen us take an exciting step forward, as the National Trust have come in to partnership with the TIC, to help secure our future and promote the wonderful work they do in our beautiful corner of North Devon. As well as general local information and accommodation details, we now offer National Trust information and memberships (with three months free on a annual direct debit!)

Together with the National Trust, we have instigated a partial refit at the TIC, by opening up the space, making it brighter and more modern, with display maps, a scrolling TV screen with National Trust information, and ipads for customers use to access local information. We also stock an extensive range of locally made gifts, beach goods, Devon-made confectionary and ice-creams as well as postcards, stamps, maps, books, souvenirs and National Trust gifts.

You can help secure the future of the TIC! * If you are a local business working directly or indirectly in the toursim sector, join the Tourism Association! We actively promote all businesses who support us in this way. * If you are a local resident, checkout our selection of retail merchandise - we have some lovely gifts! All profits from retail sales help keep the TIC afloat. * If you are on holiday, book your boat tickets or accommdation with us, buy your gifts and souvenirs from us, or join the National Trust here and start reaping the benefits whilst you are on holiday!

We are open all year round - every day from 10am Easter to October, with reduced opening hours in the winter - call in and see us soon! www.woolacombetourism.co.uk

The 2016 Bullie Bash, was held at Easwell Farm Campsite, Woolacombe on Saturday 14th May. Once again a mass walk was held on Woolacombe Beach followed by a fun afternoon with BBQ and events.

WCBW is a registered Charity and fundraise through organised walks, raffles, auctions and other events. All the money raised is used towards the medical bills of Bull Terriers in UK rescues.

If you would like more information on how to support WCBW or would like more information on owning a BT please check out our website www.westcountrybulliewalks.co.uk 30

North Devon RNLI Lifeguard team training with the St Athan Coastguard Rescue Helicopter.

Rockham Steps Reopen Access to beautiful Rockham Beach, has been restored after a long period of closure. The steps were washed away during the severe storms in February 2014. The repair work was delayed due to the complicated geology of the site. The National Trust and Devon County Council have developed a suitable solution which will keep the beach access open for the foreseeable future.

The work has been funded by the Coastal Communities Fund, through a £1.2million grant awarded to the South West Coast Path Association. Mark Owen, National Trail Officer for the South West Coast Path says: “I am delighted that the steps to Rockham Beach have finally been reopened.

The destruction and damage by the Valentine’s day storm won’t be forgotten in a hurry. With predictions of more stormy weather, and climate change, the National Trust will have a role to play in helping to keep places like Rockham open to the public, but ultimately we may be at mercy of the weather.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “The devastating 2014 storms caused more than £24 million of damage to infrastructure across the county, so it has taken time to recover from the legacy of its impact. Rockham Beach is a well-loved asset for this area so I’m sure everyone will welcome the reinstatement of the steps to the beach.”

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The familiarisation training was organised as part of the 2 week lifeguard induction which every lifeguard completes prior to working on the beach; during the induction they complete fitness and competency testing, casualty care (first aid) and scenarios, vehicle (ATV/4WD), RWC Rescue Water Craft (jetski), IRB Inflatable Rescue Boat, incident command, helicopter operations and team building activities.

During the helicopter training the lifeguard learnt about the new aircraft and crew, the equipment they carry and how to set up a landing site if required.

Lifeguards are now on duty on 10am-6pm on Woolacombe and Croyde every day until 10th April for the school holidays, weekends throughout April and they start again full time from Saturday 30th April.

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