BIGBURY ON SEA HOLIDAYS Bigburyonsea.co.uk
The site for great holidays in a great community; now gives the accommodation, holiday activities, many useful links and maps.
Now features community events and dates.
Send any ideas for the site to
John@BigburyOnSeaHolidays.com
Front Cover: 2
What’s on and Dates for your Diary
Where in the parish is this road? photo taken circa 1930
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Editors Page News, Views & letters
Answer on p.27
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Church Service times for Aveton Gifford, Bigbury, Kingston, Modbury & Ringmore
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Message from the Minister
Michael Tagent
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Parish Council Draft Minutes from the monthly meeting Your handy pull-out Guide to Local Business
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Bigbury Memorial Hall Reports and Diary of events
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The 19th Hole Report from the Golf Club
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National Trust report from Lorna Sherriff
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News from the Oyster Shack
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News from all your Regular Social Meetings
Where’s Alfie ?? He’s hiding somewhere in the pages!!
Bigbury News is published monthly by Editor - Rose Owen at Lucerne Ringmore Drive Bigbury-on-Sea Kingsbridge Devon TQ7 4AU Tel: 01548 810815 email: bigburynewseditor@gmail.com Treasurer: Trudy Smith, 20 Hilltop, St Ann's Chapel, TQ7 4HG Tel: 810185 tsbookkeeping@btinternet.com All contributions and requests for advertising to the Editor Bigbury News is a voluntary run publication which is supported by a grant from the Parish Council, advertising rates and donations from readers
DISCLAIMER - Whilst every effort has been made to ensure adverts and articles appear correctly, Bigbury News cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor.
Dates for your Diary September… 3rd 6th 13th
BIGBURY PRODUCE SHOW - Memorial Hall - presentation of prizes @ 3pm
Korniloff Coffee Morning (supporting DAAT) from 10.30 - noon p.23 Parish Council Meeting - Memorial Hall at 7.30pm
October… 12th 28th
Film Night - details in next issue Local Barn Dance - Memorial Hall at 7pm
November… 9th
Mervyn Stutter (ViA) comedian, singer & guitarist - details in next issue Look out for other dates of events in and around Bigbury, Modbury and Kingsbridge also mentioned in articles in this magazine.
BIGBURY HISTORY SOCIETY GUIDED WALK AROUND EXETER FRIDAY 15th SEPTEMBER 2017 AT 10.00 a.m. A GUIDED TOUR AROUND THE CATHEDRAL, A PRIVATE SHOWING OF “2,000 YEARS OF EXETER HISTORY AND THE “CATHEDRAL TO QUAY”
GUIDED WALK
PLUS OPTION OF LUNCH AFTERWARDS
EVERYONE IS VERY WELCOME
The charge will be £10 If you’d like to go, please contact Charles Harrington on 810023 or email charles_harri@yahoo.co.uk
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By the time you read this, there will be a lot of relieved mothers, counting the days to when their children go back to school, and what better an end to the holiday period than a gloriously sunny Bank Holiday! I hope you were all able to enjoy it! I am very relieved too because I have exciting news to share with you. Bigbury News will not be consigned to the archives - we have a new Editor!! Ever since I announced my retirement, I have had a lot of people approach me saying how much they would miss the magazine if it went out of publication, proof I am assured, that our community has a real need for this little book! I am so pleased to announce that our new Editor is Louise Wainwright of Easton. Louise is very enthusiastic to take over this role and has formulated exciting plans for Bigbury News’s future. Louise has prepared an introduction of herself for you to read below. I wholehearted wish Louise all the very best for her future as Editor of Bigbury News and hope that the community will get behind her and give her the same support that you have all given me. email: bigburynewseditor@gmail.com You can find each months issue of BN at
in ‘The Community’ section and also on the Bigbury Community website www.bigburycommunity.co.uk in the documents Section of the Bigbury News Group www.bigburyonsea.co.uk
Your New Editor Louise Wainwright has recently retired having set up, owned run a biological control company in Kenya for the last 17 years (www.realipm.com). Real IPM mass produced beneficial insects and microbes to help farmers control pests and diseases with less chemical pesticides. She and her husband have supported UK farmers trying to get these products also Registered in the EU (www.realipm.co.uk). Whilst in Kenya she set up the websites for Real IPM and the NGO that she started, called Real Impact. The NGO developed and promoted kitchen gardening for smallholder farmers and city dwellers in East Africa. Louise graduated from Bath University with a degree in horticulture. She has always added writing, communications and training dimensions to all of her jobs throughout her career. Even at school in North Devon, where she was a boarder at Edgehill College, she was the Editor of the School Magazine. Louise also lived on Lundy Island for a few years and started the Lundy Chronicle with Wendy Puddy. Louise was born in Uganda and as a child, she travelled the world with her parents, living in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand - hence her six years at boarding school in North Devon. After graduating she went to work as an agronomist with a large soft fruit cooperative in the South East and later represented a commercial company that grew and sold beneficial insects to outdoor crop producers. This set her on a path that eventually led to her and her husband moving out to Kenya in 2000. Louise and her husband Henry sold their business at the end of last year. Henry is staying in Kenya for a short period to hand over to the new owners and they are both looking forward to living in South Hams and being a part of this wonderful place. Louise is very keen to work with a team of like-minded people who want to help communicate information as well as the character of the Bigbury Community.
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CHURCH SERVICES FOR SEPTEMBER ST. ANDREWS - AVETON GIFFORD Trinity 12
3nd
11.00 am
Family Communion
Trinity 13
10th
11.00 am
Holy Communion
Trinity 14
17th
11.00 am
Matins*
Trinity 15
24th
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
ST. LAWRENCE - BIGBURY 3nd
11.00 am
Family Communion
10th
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
17th
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
24th
11.00 am
Holy Communion
ST. JAMES THE LESS - KINGSTON 3nd
11.00 am
Family Communion
10th
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
17th
11.00 am
Holy Communion
24th
11.00 am
Village Service
ST. GEORGE - MODBURY 3nd
11.00 am
Holy Communion
10th
11.00 am
Family Service
17th
11.00 am
Family Communion
24th
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
ALL HALLOWS - RINGMORE 3nd
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
10th
11.00 am
Sunday Worship
17th
11.00 am
Village service
24th
11.00 am
Harvest Family Communion
* Service in traditional language - The “Village Service” is led by members of the congregation
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Korniloff (Bigbury on Sea) Holy Communion by Extension - Tues 26th at 2.30 p.m.
HOORAY FOR HARVEST!
Message from the Minister
Harvest-time has been celebrated from earliest times. Around 1280BC, on their release from slavery in Egypt, the Jews were commanded to “celebrate the Feast of Harvest with the first fruits of crops you sow”. In England, thanks have been given for successful harvests since pagan times. An early harvest festival used to be celebrated at the beginning of the harvest season on 1 August and was called Lammas, meaning 'loaf Mass'. Farmers made loaves of bread from the fresh wheat crop, and these were given to the local church as the Communion bread during a special service thanking God for the harvest. More commonly, harvest has been celebrated when “all is safely gathered in”. The traditional Harvest festival is held on the Sunday nearest the Harvest Moon. This is the full moon that occurs closest to the autumn equinox (22 or 23 September). The modern British tradition of celebrating Harvest Festival in churches began in 1843, when the Revd Robert Hawker invited parishioners to a special thanksgiving service at his church at Morwenstow in Cornwall, and many of our harvest hymns and customs date from the Victorian era. With supermarkets selling foods from across the world, the link with harvest has weakened. We take for granted that everything will be available on demand, and it is perhaps more difficult to remember that “all good gifts around us are sent from heaven above”, and thus to thank God for his goodness. There would be no harvest without sowing, so let’s not forget the farmers and growers on whom we depend. And their work would be useless without the sun and rain we take for granted. So thank God for the harvest! Just as we look forward to harvest, so Christians await a different sort of harvest. As the seed of the gospel is sown week by week, so we pray that it will germinate, take root in people’s lives and bring forth a rich harvest of people trusting and following God. That is of course the meaning of the well-known Parable of the Sower told by Jesus.
Michael Tagent Rector: (ring 830260 for information during the vacancy) Readers: Joyce Howitt (01364 73093), Michael Tagent (810520) Website: www.modburyteam.org
THE CHURCH OF ST. LAURENCE, BIGBURY. Harvest Festival Service with Communion,
11.00am on Sunday October 1st.
Buffet lunch available after the Service in the Memorial Hall. Please let Helen (810386) or Hazel (810611) know if you would like to come to the Lunch.
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Minutes of the Bigbury Parish Council meeting held in the Memorial Hall, St Ann’s Chapel on WEDNESDAY 12th July 7.30pm. PRESENT: Cllr. B Carson (in the chair), D.Cllr B Huntley, Cllrs: G Rosevear, C Case, S Smith, H Getley and Clerk R Matthews. Nine residents were present. Declaration of Interest The Chairman read out a statement in respect of Declaration of Interest.
1.0
Apologies for absence: Apologies for absence were received from John Simes – Footpath Warden
2.0
Minutes of previous meetings held on June 14th 2017: The minutes of the meeting held on June 14th 2017 were approved – proposed by Cllr. Rosevear, seconded by Cllr. Smith and unanimously agreed by all Councillors. These were duly signed by the Chairman.
3.0
Matters arising (actions) from last meeting and not covered in this month’s agenda: Playground – Clerk advised that a recent inspection of equipment had been undertaken by SHDC without issues being raised and that no other company had wanted to provide a quote for minor repairs. They were only interested in major projects. Playground project – Cllr. Rosevear indicated that funding could be available to support this project and the list of potential suppliers had been narrowed down to ten. There may be 106 funding available and a sum of £7,500 previously set aside from a recent local housing project may be available for such a project. This project is in process. Action Cllr. Rosevear Bigbury on Sea Lay-By – Further consideration will be delayed until Autumn. Action Cllrs. Carson, Rosevear Case and Getley The future of Bigbury news – Louise Wainwright has submitted her name as a potential Editor for Bigbury News and the Council agreed that a plan should be created by herself, the current Editor and the Treasurer to make the transition at the end of December. The plan is to be discussed at a Council meeting in either October or November. Action All Councillors Cllr. Rosevear confirmed the skip placement would be in November.
4.0
Casual vacancy for Parish Councillor Clerk confirmed that no application had been received to date but the deadline had not yet expired.
5.0 Devon Air Ambulance – options for a night landing site Toby Russell – Community Landing Sites Development Officer, Devon Air Ambulance Trust attended the meeting to discuss options for a night landing site within the Parish boundary. Mr Russell explained that the community would be served by the Air Ambulance based at Exeter airport and the Trust was hoping to eventually provide a twenty four hour service option. There are currently forty night
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landing sites used by the Trust and all needed to be registered, be a minimum of fifty metres square, flat (or no more than a six degree slope), have good road access and be close to the areas of ‘higher’ population. He added that the closest operational site to the Parish was currently in Kingsbridge, although he was having a similar discussion about a new site with Ringmore Parish Council. Mr Russell stated he knew the area well and had recently visited, identifying both the Golf Club and a field (farm land) close to Ringmore Drive as potential night landing sites, although the Farmer concerned may need to make changes to the use of land in order for this particular site to be considered further. Resident A asked if the site at the rear of the Memorial Hall had been considered as St Ann’s Chapel actually had the greatest number of permanent residents as well as being the community identified for development. Mr Russell agreed to look at this site in more detail adding there was nothing to stop Bigbury having more than one site. Mr Russell further added that each site would need a system of remote controlled flood lighting, mounted on a ten metre high column. The pre-requisite for this was an available source of electricity and a ballpark figure of £2,700 was given for the lighting installation Mr Russell added that such a site would require planning approval from the District Council and should be considered as a Community Asset. Local (Community) funding would be required but grants may well be available to help fund the project. The Councillors considered such a landing site would be of great value to the community and it suggested this should be given further consideration and a public meeting organized for the community to be fully involved in all aspects from fund raising to site location. 6.0
Open session Resident A commented that the grass in the playing field was once again in need of a cut and it was agreed the Clerk would contact SHDC to request this and at the same time provide SHDC with the dates that public events were scheduled to take place in order to ensure the grass was cut in advance. Action Clerk
Resident B referred to comments made in the minutes of the previous meeting relating to bus (coach) parking and it was agreed he could defer his comments and questions until the arrival of the County Councillor. Resident B referred to comments made in the minutes of the previous meeting in respect of dog control (segregation) and asked which beach this referred to, adding it seemed illogical to consider scrapping the segregation if bigger and more visible signs could not be installed. Cllr.Carson commented that this was matter under the direct control of the District Council and the very best the Parish Council could do was to request adequate signage, which would be done. Action Clerk Resident B stated his disappointment that a letter written to the four Councillors who approved the recent planning application on Burgh Island had only been responded to by the Clerk. Resident B further expressed his views that the Parish Council had disregarded all aspects relating to AONB and had failed to act in a correct manner in respect of Account 106 funding.
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Cllr. Rosevear vehemently refuted the latter adding that both he and Cllr. Carson fully understood the process, having both been District Councillors in the past. Cllr. Carson added the Parish Council had little ‘real’ power in such planning matters and it is SHDC planning who make all decisions, however the view of the Parish Councillors when this matter was discussed, some months ago, was that they would support the application. Resident B stated that a large number of people had now signed a petition against this proposed development and that the actions of the Parish Council had seriously damaged the impact such a petition was designed to achieve. In response to a request from Cllr. Carson, the Clerk commented that at the time this planning application was being discussed by the Parish Council, only two (2) objections from local residents had been registered on the SHDC planning portal. Resident C raised concerns about the current lack of marker buoys in Bigbury Bay, adding that Jet Ski riders were driving their machines in a dangerous manner. The appropriate authorities are to be contacted to address issue. There were also concerns about boats speeding in the Avon estuary. Action Clerk
7.0
Resident C also raised the issue of coaches parking in the car park and taking up large numbers of parking bays. It was unclear as to whether the coaches were paying to park. Resident C would provide evidence for the Clerk to take up with SHDC. Action Clerk Bigbury Neighbourhood Plan – discussion and update Jean Wright gave a status update on behalf of the Neighbourhood Plan Committee. A Neighbourhood Plan event was held at the Memorial Hall on 17 June 2017. The purpose of this event was to inform the community of the results of the Housing Needs Survey following the publication of a report from South Hams District Council and to discuss how these housing needs could best be met. The Housing Needs Survey Report states that as part of our Neighbourhood Plan the parish should be making provision for a development of 10-12 dwellings, primarily to meet local affordable housing needs. St Ann’s Chapel is the only ‘sustainable village’ and from the results of the questionnaire it was considered that this was the best place for this new development. This is also the view of South Hams Council. Six sites around St Ann’s Chapel were considered and those present were asked to vote via a secret ballot box on which site they preferred. The votes were as follows: Site 1 (Site behind The Petit Pain, The Old Bakery and Old Chapel) = 0 Site 2 (to the rear of the Memorial Hall) = 4 Site 3 (adjacent to Hilltop) = 2 Site 4 (to the rear of The Holywell Stores) = 41 Site 5 (close to Holwell Farmhouse) = 0 Site 6 (to the rear of The Pickwick Inn) = 0
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We will now progress further discussions with the local farmer, the District Council, a housing association or Community Trust with regard to this development and the site will be put forward as a site allocation in the Neighbourhood Plan. The Steering Group together with other volunteers have also been carrying out studies of the villages of St Ann’s Chapel, Bigbury Village, Bigbury on Sea and Challaborough and we would like the community’s comments on these studies. I have copies of these studies with me today and we will also leave some in the Holywell Stores. They can also be accessed via the community website. We will be leaving a comments box in the Holywell Stores or you can email your comments to our Chairman, Valerie Scott on valeriescott@bigbury.net. The Clerk confirmed that in addition to this information being made available on the Bigbury Community website, the map showing the six sites referred to above would be included in the Parish meeting presentation that would also be uploaded to the website. The upload of the presentation from each meeting was both a new and permanent act. 8.0 Planning Applications 1820/17/FUL – Chapel Combe Farm, TQ7 4HQ, Construction of new agricultural building to house livestock and hard standing for bale storage. This application was discussed and the Parish Council has no objection. It was noted the building was to be sited at the far side of the boundary which was suggested may help reduce tractor traffic through the village. Proposed – Cllr. Rosevear, Seconded Cllr.Smith and unanimously agreed. 2057/17/HHO – Villa Crusoe, Lane to Hexdown Farm, Bigbury, TQ7 4BD, demolition of existing garage block /ancillary building and replacement with two story extension. Additional building work as per notice. Cllr. Case declared a personal interest in this item and abstained from voting. The application was discussed and the Council had no objection. Proposed by Cllr. Rosevear, seconded by Cllr. Smith Resident, Cllrs. Huntley and Getley abstained and the application was passed by all other Councillors. 2088/17/HHO 1 Coastguards, Marine Drive – application for extension to raise and extend existing front balcony and associated internal layout alterations. Discussion on this application was deferred and a site visit was requested. The Councillors would make a decision, which would be recorded in the minutes of the next meeting. Action Clerk 9.0 Planning related topics Proposed development at St Ann’s Chapel – it was confirmed that SHDC had refused this application and it was in the interest of the community to push forward with the recommendations of the Neighbourhood Plan. Resident A thanked the Council and the Neighbourhood Plan Committee for their input and hard work which helped SHDC reach this conclusion. Royal Oak site – Cllr. Carson declared a personal interest but commented that developer’s aim was to build four houses and in addition consider any options that arose in respect of the Royal Oak building itself. Bay Café – no further update Placement of planning notices – a view was expressed that planning notices should be placed on the three parish notice boards – a practice that the current Clerk had stopped. After discussion Cllr. Case proposed the practice be re-instated with further review in January 2018. This was unanimously
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10.0 County Councillor’s report C.Cllr Gilbert was unable to attend the meeting and no report was given. 11.0 District Councillors report D.Cllr Huntley thanked the Parish Councillors and all concerned for their work in respect of the proposed road development at St Ann’s Chapel. D.Cllr also referred to the issues and concerns in and around Bigbury Bay previously raised. D.Cllr advised the meeting of the possibility that South Hams District Council and South West Devon Council could merge as a cost saving exercise. D.Cllr raised the profile of ragwort growing on The Warren. Although residents could remove the weed, it was toxic and should be disposed of in the correct manner and was a notifiable weed. It is important to wear gloves at all times when handling ragwort. 12.0 AONB – Parish representation The importance of AONB to the community is acknowledged and after discussion it was agreed that Cllr. Case would use her existing contacts and talk to AONB about opening up improved channels through which information could be better shared with the Council. 13.0 Footpath Warden’s report John Simes sent his apologies and was unable to attend this meeting and there was no further information available. Cllr Carson reminded everyone of John’s intention to resign from this position later in the year and the Council hoped that someone else would be interested in taking on this role. 14.0 Finance: Approval of payments to be made and presentation of finance statement. Clerk presented the following for payment. Cllr. Rosevear proposed this be accepted which was seconded by Cllr. Smith and all councillors agreed. Clerk was to raise cheques. £486.00 – R Matthews (Clerk) Salary for 3 months ended 30th June £287.48 – R Matthews – Expenses for Bigbury Parish Council for 3 months ended 30th June £60.00 – Kingsbridge websites – 1 year hosting package £30.00 – Bigbury Memorial Hall – hire of hall £200.00 – Hope Cove Lifeboat – annual donation £156.00 – SHDC – insurance and inspection of St Ann’s Chapel play area £38.28 – BT group – rental cost line and broadband Memorial Hall. Paid by direct debit Clerk showed a slide of the current cash book and bank reconciliation statement showing a balance of £19817.29 as at June 30th 2017.
Clerk showed a statement of restricted and reserved funding with a balance of £3090.06. Clerk confirmed the statutory period for inspection of last year’s account ended on July 17th.
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15.0
Health and Safety policy – annual review and adoption
Cllr. Rosevear proposed this be adopted for another year. This was seconded by Cllr.Smith and agreed unanimously by all Councillors. 16.0
Clerk’s salary annual review Cllr. Carson proposed this be increased to £10 per hour. Cllr. Rosevear seconded this proposal and the Councillors voted unanimously to approve. It was agreed to set a formal performance review process
Action Clerk
17.0 Correspondence received A letter was received from Mrs Trundle (see minute 9 – placement of planning notices). A letter was received relating to Dementia friendly parishes around the Yealm. A letter was received from Historic England in respect of the Bigbury War Memorial Cross. This was to be forwarded to the History Society. Action Clerk A letter was received from Thurlestone Parish Council relating a project for community wi-fi. Councillors discussed this and felt it had merit and could be of potential benefit to Bigbury on Sea specifically. Clerk to contact Thurlestone to obtain the date, time and venue for a community meeting – this is to be published on the Bigbury Community website. Action Clerk A letter was received from Emma Widdicombe, SHDC advising of a swim organized by Ashfords and scheduled for July 20th. Another letter was received from Emma Widdicombe relating to the review of litter bins. AOB Clerk confirmed that for purposes of compliance and transparency, in future the slide presentation used at Parish Council meetings would be uploaded to the Bigbury Community website. Correspondence listed above can be reviewed there in full.
Meeting closed 09:30 pm PARISH CLERK. The Parish Clerk is Richard Matthews of 10 Lower Brook Park, Ivybridge, Devon, PL21 9TZ; Tel: 07987 130599. clerk.bigburypc@btinternet.com
BOWLS FOR FREE With the Bigbury Bowls Club closing there remain in store a number of bowls sets. If some of these bowls are yours, or, you would like to have a set, please let me know. Those that remain in store in October will be disposed of by giving them to another club or to a charity. J Bennett
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Trees and the Cycle of Life Our trees and woodland reflect the history of the local community and they are the custodians of our beautiful landscape. I love trees. It is a sad day when an ancient tree needs to be felled. The prosperity and adversity of rural communities are embodied in a tree’s annual rings as harsh or luxuriant growing seasons determine the thickness of the growth rings. The fact that this natural process has come to an end for a tree that is felled calls for poignant reflection. I moved into a house in Easton at the beginning of this year. An old chestnut some 15 meters tall had somehow clung to a very narrow bank which rises precariously from a lane that passes through the hamlet. Large roots had become exposed on the roadside of the bank and the chestnut tree had become a concern to local residents. There was no real top soil in this bank, where poor soil about 50cm deep overlaid a deep crust of shillet. It was not only overhanging the roof of the house, because it was only three meters from the building, but some of its roots were finding their way under the foundations. It must have been a chance sapling that had been allowed, out of neglect, to grow there rather than it being wilfully planted in such an inappropriate place. That it had managed to grow for so long in such poor conditions, is inspirational. One of my dismal duties was to oversee its removal. I am sharing this experience and hope the due process passes on useful information to others. The South Hams District Council provides clear guidelines on tree management and what regulations need to be considered. This excellent booklet “Protected Tree and their Management� can be downloaded from the South Hams website and is now also available from our community website www.bigburycommunity.co.uk You need to JOIN as a Member of the Bigbury Community website to download information. Before removing the tree I had to determine whether the tree had a Tree Preservation Order placed on it and if it was located within a Conservation Area. Maps of both these issues are available and neither applied to this tree. I had the responsibility of engaging a professional arboriculturist for both advise on the risks posed and whether permissions or felling licences were needed. The tree was deemed a risk and its removal confirmed. The weather was very bad during the time the tree was to be felled so the agonising was a drawn out process. Eventually the tree was safely taken carefully down. I have kept the tree trunk and will make it into a memorial seat in the new glade of indigenous trees that I will be planting in the three acre garden surrounding the house.
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In the process of inquiry I discovered that Bigbury has its own Tree Warden – Trish Bagley. I invited Trish to come and help me make plans about replanting what is a very large area of land with new trees. My neighbour had shown me some old plans of the land before the old schoolhouse had been built there. The land was called The Orchard and was clearly the orchard belonging to the old rectory next door. There are a number of very ancient apple trees in several of the gardens in Easton. My husband, Henry Wainwright, was a Professor of Horticulture and lectured on fruit at Bath University, where I also specialised in fruit production. Our orchard replanting project has now taken on more importance because of the historical association with fruit trees. Trish has made me aware of community orchards in Ringmore and Plymouth and we plan to meet up with those involved. Henry and I have already made enquiries at Brogdale Fruit Collections in Kent, where many old varieties are still preserved. It takes some 18 months to obtain a tree of a special variety because the scion needs to be cut from the mother tree and grafted onto the required rootstock. Brogdale gave us a list of varieties of apple and pear known to have come from Devon. We will use a vigorous rootstock to make large trees, so that our neighbour can continue to graze his sheep underneath them. Trish also gave me some helpful advice on what evergreen indigenous bushes and trees I should interplant in the hedges to make them a better privacy screen. She prefers mixtures of different trees in hedges as this better supports biodiversity. Tree Wardens are volunteers who monitor the health of local trees and contribute to the mapping of some of the devastating diseases affecting our indigenous trees, such as ash die back, sudden oak wilt and Dutch Elm Disease.
Trish also works part time at Turtle Farm, where there are poly-tunnels producing a range of plants. She hopes to begin producing trees here in the near future. If you need advice about replanting trees, then Trish is the person to contact. trishbagley@icloud.com there are a lot of useful links in the South Hams leaflet. Louise Wainwright Long Easton, Easton
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Tues, Weds, Thurs, Fri (12 noon - 3pm and then 6pm till close
Food 12 noon - 2pm and 6pm - 8.30pm) Sat (12 noon till close - food 12 noon - 3pm and 6pm - 8.30pm) Sun (12 noon till close - food 12 noon - 3pm)
MATTHEW BISSEX ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS LTD PLANNING AND BUILDING REGULATIONS APPLICATIONS PLANS DRAWN FOR EXTENSIONS LOFT CONVERSIONS, CONSERVATORIES, NEW BUILD HOUSING, LISTED BUILDING APPLICATIONS. Visit our website at
www.mbad.co.uk
For a free quote on plans for your build project contact Matthew on 01761 436861 or mobile 07843 286857
BIGBURY ON SEA PROPERTY SERVICES Tel: 01548 811137 Email: bigburypropertyservices@gmail.com
Local Trustworthy couple offering a first class Management / Maintenance Service. Services Offered: Changeovers and laundry - Key Holding / Property checks Deep Clean - Window Cleaning - Garden Services
We also offer: Complete property maintenance from decorating to a new bathroom. We will liaise with local tradesmen for plumbing, heating and electrical problems. Holiday / Second Home and Residential. Contact Elaine or Andy to discuss your requirements
The Dolphin Inn Kingston Traditional 16th Century Inn Open all Day Beer Garden Cask Conditioned Ales Traditional Pub Food Lunch 12-3pm Dinner 6-9pm Cream Teas Bed and Breakfast Tel. 01548 810314 Craig and Leah Worthington ( formerly of The Bay View CafĂŠ) are delighted to be new Proprietors of the Dolphin Inn and look forward to welcoming you
3 Comfortable bedrooms available all year round, with stunning views overlooking Dartmoor and surrounding countryside. Near to beaches and local facilities. Dane & Hilary Vanstone St. Ann’s Chapel, Kingsbridge, TQ& 4HQ T: 01548 810308 www.holywell-bedandbreakfast.co.uk
01548 830250 OR 07925306853
• • •
• •
Areas of Expertise Tree felling and removal All aspects of tree pruning Woodland Management Hedge laying Site Clearance
www.cpmr.co.uk Sharon@cpmr.co.uk
BIGBURY MEMORIAL HALL Bringing the Community Together I hope you’re all having a great Summer, despite the inconsistent weather. At the Hall we tend to have a bit of break from arranging events but, before this, we had a couple of successful evenings in Spring/ early Summer. The first of these, on June 9th, was the latest in the twice yearly Wine Tasting Evenings staged by Local wine expert Richard Taylor, ably assisted by Alice. As usual, eight interesting wines were accompanied by Richard’s insightful and amusing comments, together with delicious nibbles. On the 30 th, we were thoroughly entertained by satirical poet Rob Barratt from Launceston. Over 30 people turned up to hear his unique take on life. Things resume on Sunday September 3rd with the annual Bigbury Garden Produce Show (see poster). Details of the various categories appear elsewhere in this edition and there’s something for everyone, even if you don’t have green fingers! If you don’t actually enter, please come along and have a look at the great entries that will be on show. The committee have been planning the programme of events for the Autumn and Winter. These kick off on Thursday October 12th with the latest in our ever popular series of Film and Food Nights. At the time of writing, the film to be shown isn’t known but details will certainly appear in next month’s Bigbury News at the latest. More information on the forthcoming programme will be in next month’s issue. Charles Harrington. Tel. 810023 Email: charles_harri@yahoo.co.uk
We shall be continuing to run a 50:100 Club, to which we hope to recruit 100 subscribers, each paying £10. Lucky numbers will be drawn each month from October until next July for prizes totalling 50% of the contributions (i.e. £30, £15 and £5 - assuming 100 tickets sold). The remaining 50% will go towards further improvements to the Memorial Hall. Tickets (lucky numbers) will be on sale from September 2017 at Holywell Stores.
The draw will be held in the 1st week of each month, beginning in October. Organised by Mike & Rita Baker Promoted by Dane Vanstone
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Calendar of Events September 2017 Day & Time Mon.
Activity
9.15 – 10.00
Contact name
Tel. no
Body Boost
*Jill Gubbins
810651
10.05 – 11.05
Pilates
*Jill Gubbins
810651
19.00 – 20.15
Yoga
Fi Baker
07880498914
Tues.
17.30 - 19.30
Youth Club
Louise Pitt
07786860440
Wed.
9.30 – 11.45
South Hams Shrimps
Beccy Phelan
811179/ 07789111200
Thurs.
9.15 – 10.00
Body Strength
*Jill Gubbins
810651
10.05 – 11.05
Pilates
*Jill Gubbins
810651
11.15 – noon
Strong & Steady (plus tea & chat)
*Jill Gubbins
810651
*Jill’s classes will restart near the end of September September events: Sunday 3rd September: Garden Produce Show with a Rainbow theme. See posters in this issue and round the Parish for further details. Future events: Thursday 12th October: Film Night. More details next month. Thursday 9th November: Mervyn Stutter – comedian, singer and guitarist. A previous Villages in Action performer. Details next month. 50:100 Club (Promoted by Dane Vanstone). Tickets (£10) for the 10 monthly draws beginning in October) will be on sale in Holywell Stores from the beginning of September. 50% of the money goes in prizes and 50% to the Memorial Hall.
Dear All, Once again it’s time to offer you the opportunity of supporting the 50/100 Club!!!! Last year we had a great response selling 87 out the 100 number and therefore paid out £435 in cash prizes and donated the same amount to the Village Hall funds. It would be marvellous if we could sell all 100 numbers this year. I hope you will want to support this worthwhile cause again and if so please go into Holywell Stores and join up ready for the first draw in October. Many thanks, Rita Baker See poster opposite
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News from the Nineteenth Hole at Bigbury Golf Club As the summer months progress it is always a busy time at Bigbury Golf Club and our important competitions continue to happen. Probably the most prestigious competitions are the Club Championships. These are a gruelling test with both the ladies and men playing 36 holes and the juniors playing 18 holes. In their sections Amanda Burchell (ladies), James Mitchell (men's) and Luke Westlake (juniors) each won the scratch competitions and are crowned the Club Champions. In the men's section Darren Mutton, won the Nettlefold Cup, Mick McNulty claimed the President's Trophy; Darren Mutton added to his prize winning streak when teamed up with Captain Ben Guest, the pair won the Oakleigh Memorial Trophy; finally the Warrilow Cup and Putter was awarded to the winning partners Liam Kimber and Jake Pepperell. The ladies prize winners include Vanda Irish who won the Coronation Trophy, to add to her collection of 11 titles and no less than 23 appearances on the Honours Boards, Sally Watts who for the second time has won the Rabbit Trophy, and Pauline Deschamps who claimed the Lady Captain's Prize . John Parry and his partner Kevin Rowe were the successful team winning the Seniors' Alan Hambly Trophy, and the men's Veterans Cup was claimed by Ian Tope.
Not to be forgotten is Junior Captain Luke Westlake who won the Junior Club Championship and recently the Junior Order of Merit Medal, while Luke's vice captain, Jessica Leach, won both the President's Junior Cup and the John Bowman Stableford, and Philip Taylor recorded the best score to win the John Bowman Medal. Lady Captain Sally Errett chose to have a horse racing themed day for the annual Lady Captain 's Day and it was a very colourful event. The weather could have been kinder , but we managed to complete the rounds of golf amid the mist. Sally said that seeing everyone dressed up for their golf in horse racing gear was fun, but it was quite overwhelming to see all the ladies who had played, and those who had joined the party after the golf, all dressed up to the nines in the clubhouse for the prize presentation and a mouth watering meal. Pauline Deschamps won the Captain's Day with a great score of 40 points. Sally was presented with a watch and vase to remind her of a wonderful day. Our Senior Captain Tony Messenger hosted a seniors' Open and Charity fundraiser and was pleased to announce that a substantial amount had been raised for the Derriford Chestnut Appeal. Playing in a foursomes format competition can be challenging at the best of times, but in the Gerry Cup you are partnered with your spouse which some couples find particularly difficult at anytime therefore it can make a hard game of golf even harder. Obviously this year's winners Jo and Nick Shorrocks hard no such problems when they scored 67.5 to win, Jane and Michael Hart remained friends scoring 71 to come second as did Dot and Stan Kenneth who came third. Congratulations go to all our winners and participants.
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My Trip To Lourdes - April 2017 Many of you were very kind back in the spring when you came to my house to drink tea, eat cake and scones, and make very kind donations towards trips to Lourdes for handicapped children. You will remember that I was going as a volunteer helper, invited by the Group Leader, my cousin Beth. Also going were another cousin, Emma, and my Auntie Angie, both of whom are nurses. We flew out on Easter Sunday with a party of 5 handicapped children and 11 volunteers. The high ratio of helpers to children is because of the amount of care they need, due to the severity of their conditions. This was my first experience of this kind and I didn't know what to expect. However, I soon realised two things: first that it was much more of a challenge for the children than it was for me and second that they have a great capacity for enjoying themselves and I can honestly say that the whole trip was great fun. We had a detailed itinerary for the whole week. The highlights included a visit the holy spring where Mary is said to have appeared to St. Bernadette, a torchlight procession in front of the cathedral, a day at the beach, a day in the Pyrenees, and a trip to the castle at Lourdes. There was also a lot of 'down' time where we just played games with the children and chatted. I found that, at the beginning of the week, the children were a bit reserved but, as they got used to being with us, they relaxed and started to really enjoy themselves. It was very rewarding to watch them come out of their shells and really have fun. We laughed a lot more than I ever imagined we would. I learnt, partly from observation and partly from people who had been going on the trip for a long time, that the children gain much from this kind of experience, largely in terms of the confidence it gives them to seek out opportunities to have fun once they get back home. Although it was hard work and sometimes quite harrowing, there was a great sense of satisfaction and achievement in being part of the trip. So, I would like to say a huge thank you, on behalf of the children, for your generous donations that made their trip possible. Nick Carson
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We are now almost through the school summer holidays and the weather has been its usual hit and miss with some cracking sunshine and some amazing downpours. Our Thursday summer fun events have been well attended with visitors enjoying various activities at Wembury and South Milton Sands. We have also trialled some ‘pop up’ events on the better weather days at these beaches which visitors have really enjoyed. We hope to do these when we have good weather in other school holidays and will let people know about them via our Facebook page. The orchard at Ringmore is looking great and it’s going to be a good year for our apple crop. We were up at the orchard in mid August collecting some of the first apples ready. We have several different types of heritage variety trees which mean they all need harvesting at different times from mid August right through to mid October. We are trying to get up there every couple of weeks to collect all the ripe apples to put into storage so we will be able to make some juice later on in the year. We have said goodbye to 2 of our full time volunteers Rosie Jones and Emily Brown who have been volunteering with us whilst on their summer holidays from university. Rosie is returning to university to complete her final year and Emily has gone onto another voluntary placement before starting a Master’s degree. We wish them all the best. We also have a new Assistant Ranger Rosie Wright who will be working 2 days a week with us for the next 2 years. Rosie will be helping us with events and volunteer management.
If you are looking ahead and wanting to plan some great days out then have a look at our events listed below and for further information go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Saturday 9th September 16.00 – 21.30 Big Night on the Beach – South Milton This family favorite is back again, celebrating the end of summer with family activities and the spectacular sundown parade. You'll also have the chance to try out watersports, rock pooling, crafts, and beach games, with storytelling, a bird walk and more too. In partnership with the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this event is not to be missed. The event is free to attend, but small charges apply for some of the taster sessions.
Saturday 16th September 10.30 – 12.00 Beach watch beach clean – South Milton Sunday 17th September 10.30 – 12.00 Beach watch beach clean – Wembury (in partnership with Wembury Marine centre) Our coastlines are enjoyed by millions of people every year, which is why we're taking part in the Great British Beach Clean again this year. By cleaning these beaches, we can ensure these wonderful areas stay in ship-shape condition for visitors every year, and protect the marine wildlife that lives along our shores. Working alongside the Marine Conservation Society, we'll be picking up litter and noting what we collect for the MCS annual litter survey results. Please bring a pair of gardening gloves and shoes suitable for getting wet. Dress for the weather. Booking is not required, but you can register your interest via www.mcsuk.org/ beachwatch/ For further information regarding the work of the South Devon National Trust team please call Lorna Sherriff on 01548 562344 or email lorna.sherriff@nationaltrust.org.uk
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Lorna Sherriff - Area Ranger
Ahoy Shackers, What a cracking summer we’ve had so far. It’s been bustling with our popular, new outdoor grill stations, a stunning way to cook catch of the day al fresco style. With the rustic, vibrant, shack surrounds and a glass of ice cold wine in hand, you’ll really feel as if you’re lost in a Mediterranean Devon! If you’re an enthusiast in the kitchen, our renowned Cookery Masterclasses are back next month – the first class focusses on smoking and curing, using our traditional hand built wood smoker, which you may have seen featured in Devon Life. Our popular “round the world” masterclass series is back in October with a focus on South American seafood – from ceviches to tacos, it’s a brilliant way to brush up on your culinary skills with key tricks of the trade. You can also book your own private class for groups of friends – just call Ali to discuss options, it’s a great idea for celebratory gatherings. We have delicious local’s menu offers starting from September 4th with our “Cracking Weekday Lobster” alongside our locals set menu launching from October 1st. This Autumn we are revising our usual opening hours so do please keep an eye on our website for up to date hours. We hope to see you for glorious seafood at The Shack soon, Chris, Ali, Andy and the crew
UPCOMING OFFERS & EVENTS AT THE OYSTER SHACK Cracking Weekday Lobster: September 4th – 31st (Lunch and Dinner, weekdays only) Half Grilled Lobster, Fries for £15 add a glass of prosecco £19.50 Saturday Sept 9th: 9am-12noon - Smoking & Curing Masterclass
In this hands-on class, you'll learn the art of traditional smoking and curing, take home what you prepare, all ingredients & equipment included, followed by a 2-course lunch with wine. £70 Saturday October 7th: 9am-12noon - “Round The World” Masterclass – South America Taking local seafood, this is a class inspired by international cooking styles, this class will focus on South American seafood from ceviches to tacos. Includes equipment, take home your prepared dishes, nibbles throughout, followed by a 2 -course set menu lunch with wine. £70
Autumn Set Menu – Launches October 1st (excludes holidays) 2 courses £14 or 3 courses £16 Our mouthwatering seasonal set menu will re-launch from October 1st - featuring an array of catch of the day fish, seasonal ingredients, plus meat and vegetarian options.
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On Wednesday 5th July, the Korniloff Coffee Morning raised ÂŁ140 for the Bigbury Bay Beach Wheelchairs; which will hopefully provide a cover to keep them clean from the seagull excrement and of course the elements and a wheel pump as it is important to keep the tyres inflated on the beach! It was so lovely to have several visitors from Chalaborough, whom we hope will continue to come over and support us. Our grateful thanks to everybody who supported us so generously. On Wednesday 2nd August we supported Modbury Caring and raised ÂŁ183. Many thanks to all those who came and supported us and gave so generously despite the awful wet weather, I was soaked even before I arrived at Korniloff! On Wednesday 6th September, we are supporting Devon Air Ambulance Trust, come and enjoy a chat and a cup of coffee with the residents, they are always pleased to see us. We look forward to seeing you between 10.30 and noon. Our grateful thanks to Gina & Gordon, their staff and of course the residents of Korniloff for welcoming us into their lovely home and for their continuing support. Jean & Yvonne
At our July Meeting we discussed "Big Brother" by Lionel Shriver which received very mixed reviews, although everyone finished it (which is not always the case) and there was a real "sting in the tail". Most found it disappointing, very unbelievable and the writing very self-absorbed - not a book we would recommend. Erica's choice for July reading was "The Lie of the Land by Amanda Craig and this was enjoyed by most of us. A lovely Summer read, set in Devon, well written, with complex characters and with another surprise ending. We also read a second book this month which was recommended by The Harbour Bookshop - "The Enchanted April" by Elizabeth Von Arnim, this was a gentle, easy read book which we all enjoyed. Our August Meeting held at Pat's house was a short meeting because we arranged a 90th Birthday Tea for Iris our popular and much loved chairman. Liz made a wonderful cake in the shape of a book and we were joined by some members of the McSherry family - a complete surprise for Iris and a good time was had by all. Our book chosen for this month is "Great Small Things" by Jodi Picout and this will be discussed when we meet at Jo's house on September 6th.
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The August meeting was held at Gill and Grant Peet’s lovely bungalow over looking Burgh Island – a repeat of last August’s meeting which we had all enjoyed so much so Gill very kindly invited us back for this August. There were about 14 of us and we started by doing flower arrangements with great help from Gill who kindly provided the oasis ad containers needed for the arrangements. Everyone had brought a buffet contribution (all of which were absolutely delicious) and a glass of Pimms topped off a lovely get together on the terrace overlooking the sea. Gill has run several of these events in the past for local ladies. Its a great chance to meet new people and old friends. Gill acquired her floristry skills when she helped her daughter who had a commercial floristry business. She still 'does' a few weddings and occasions locally and will be holding another event just before Christmas to help people make their own Christmas wreaths. Many thanks to Gill for her hospitality. If you think you have skills to share - why don’t you make a post on Bigbury Community Website and invite people to contact you if they are interested? You may make new friends or have some fun with old ones.
The Arts Society Kingsbridge Lecture – How Pleasant to know Edward Lear given by Tim Stimson Wednesday 27th/ Thursday 28th September 2017 “A man of original and versatile genius”: ornithologist, diarist, musician, traveller – this warm and delightful human being expressed his simple philosophy through timeless humour. An illustrated lecture focussing on his biography with quotations from his writings throughout. Wednesday evening lecture starts at 7pm for 7.30pm. Thursday morning lecture starts at 10am for 10.30am. Lectures held at Methodist Church, 100 Fore Street, Kingsbridge. Refreshments available before each lecture. Free for members. £8 for visitors
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Consumer Goods - a light-hearted look at label instructions In case you needed further proof that the human race is doomed through stupidity, here are some actual instructions on consumer goods:
On Tesco’s Tiramisu dessert (printed on bottom): “Do not turn upside down”. (well...duh, a bit late!)
On Marks & Spencer Bread Pudding: “Product will be hot after heating (….and you thought??....)
On packaging for a Rowenta iron: “Do not iron clothes on body.” (but wouldn't this save more time?)
On Boots Children’s Cough Medicine: “Do not drive a car or operate machinery after taking this medication.” (we could do a lot to reduce the rate of accidents if we could stop those 5-year-olds with head-colds from driving forklift trucks.) :-D
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VICTORIAN TEA PARTY – 5 JULY Forty or more guests gathered at the Old Rectory for another great Victorian Tea Party on 5 July 2017. This was again in aid of the Friends of St Lawrence’s and raised just under £600. We had a huge array of cakes, scones and sandwiches, far too much for everyone to eat on the day and there was an auction of those remaining, with other cakes going to the after Church coffee on the Sunday afterwards. Again all got into the spirit of the occasion with lots of hats and stripy jackets. We also had fabulous floral arrangements for the tables. Enormous thanks to all who made contributions to this event, especially to Helen for providing her home as the perfect setting.
Alice Taylor Treasurer
Next Event:
Price £5.00 each for adults Under 12’s free
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It’s been a summer of frolics, festivals and feasting across our six cafes in Devon and Cornwall. Come rain (let’s face it, we’ve had a few drops) or shine, the beaches have been busy with happy shrieks and hungry visitors. Beach revellers at Bigbury-on-Sea have proved yet again that we’re a hardy nation, fearless in the face of inclement weather. After months of development, we’re delighted to say that our summer menu was a massive hit with locals and visitors alike. The most popular items were our fresh and vibrant wraps, along with our fish arancini with chilli, coconut and ginger. Seasonal, local food is always order of the day at Venus and we can’t wait to share our winter menu with you, to launch in October. Expect warming meals and some new Venus dishes as well as the favourites, which will no doubt sell like hot-cakes! From the 1st September we’ll be open every day from 10am to 5pm. Sustainability is at the heart of our business and is the identity that runs through everything we do. It’s in the character of the building and you’ll feel it in our staff’s enthusiasm when they talk about adventures to be had in the ocean. It gives our menu a voice and you can taste it in the food. We source our meat from grass-fed Devon herds from a family farm at Roborough, fish from Plymouth fish market, and dairy a hop away from a farmer’s co-op (Trewithen) in Cornwall. We’re thrilled to support the Burgh Island Chestnut Appeal prostate cancer swim again. Taking place at 10am on the 17th September, it is a chance to swim around the spectacular island with a friendly bunch of fellow fundraisers. It’s the sixth one now, which has raised a whopping over £100,000 to date and will hopefully generate plenty more much-needed funds this month. To register, just visit Chestnut Appeal website – www.chestnutappeal.co.uk. Whether you’re out basking in September’s Indian Summer (so the papers say), or sheltering from the wind with a warming lunch, we hope to see you on the beach! Martin, Andy and the whole team at Venus
Cover Conundrum Where you Right…….?
Merryville
Ringmore Drive, Bigbury on Sea! Circa 1930 Most of the properties still have their original names
Inglenook Alpine Cottage Swiss Cottage
Lucerne was erected in the Lyndale gap between Alpine Cottage and Inglenook circa 1950 around the time Alpine Cottage was extended to house the P.O. & Stores Merryville has been extended considerably over the years & is now called Sandlands
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PICKWICK INN
HOLYWELL STORES