English Riviera Magazine June/July 2021

Walks • Local Food • Heritage • Theatre • People • Events • Arts

EnglishRiviera June/july 2021

Chill Out

magazine

at Fishcombe

with Chloe Pavely

PAIGNTON

PIONEER

Arthur Hyde Dendy

Explore

Dartington Estate

COM

UN ITY

BUS I NESS

M

BUY LOCAL & SAVE JOBS

Village Walk

Stoke Gabriel

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TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONES IN LATER LIFE More and more people are facing a financial dilemma as they grow older

The cost of care can vary considerably across the country and will be dependent upon the type of care and level of support you will require. This will often be determined through a care needs assessment. According to Laing Buisson’s Care of Older People UK Market Report, December 2019, the average annual cost of residential care in the UK is around £33,852 for residential care and £47,320 for nursing care. This means the spectre of having to sell a property to meet care costs looms large for many.

On top of all this, there is the threat of Inheritance Tax (IHT), which can have a serious impact on people’s estates. IHT used to be the preserve of the very wealthy but escalating property values in recent years have put paid to that and more people are affected.

In April 2020, the residence nil-rate band rose to £175,000, for those who qualify. Coupled with the fact that the first £325,000 of an

individual’s estate is exempt from IHT, this will mean that, subject to certain conditions, a married couple and civil partners could have a combined tax-free estate worth £1 million. However, there are other financial implications to consider, particularly if you are a widow, widower or divorcee.

‘‘

‘‘

M

any people would like to make monetary gifts to provide immediate benefit to loved ones as soon as possible.

But there is a growing fear that money could run out, leaving them unable to maintain a standard of living later in life, especially if longterm care is required.

EVEN IF PEOPLE CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN THEIR OWN HOMES AND RECEIVE CARE THERE, THE COST IS SIGNIFICANT

the risk of your estate being severely reduced through IHT and the high cost of long-term care.

More detailed planning advice will always need to consider your personal circumstances. The best action anyone concerned about these issues can take is to seek professional advice and establish how you can protect your hardearned assets.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Individuals often do not take the time to understand the impact that care fees or IHT could have on their wealth. Many people are confused

by IHT policy and many mistakenly believe they are unlikely to be affected by this or the need for care in later life. This lack of preparation could have serious consequences later in life. The good news is that there are solutions to help safeguard your wealth in later life.

Understanding what you can gift to loved ones now, or place in trust for later, can give you access to the income you need today and also mitigate any future exposure.

Adrian Howard

Something as simple as ensuring your Will is up to date could reduce

Managing Director

The writing of a Will involves referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place. Wills and Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Why not contact us for a review of your later life financial planning?

Adrian

DipFA CeRER Cert CII (MP)

01803 659659 / 07853 370222 • adrian.howard@sjpp.co.uk

www.orestonewealth.co.uk

The Old Bank Chambers, Fore Street, St Marychurch, Torquay TQ1 4PR The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Welcome

About us...

to the June/July issue.

Summer is here and many of us will be staying put this year to enjoy all the marvellous things that our beautiful English Riviera has to offer. We popped down to Brixham’s glorious Fishcombe Cove to meet Chloe Pavely and her ‘beach hut heaven’. We also meet up with John Kennar, new Chair of Brixham Heritage Museum and Maggie Duffy ever-popular local singer, songwriter and poet to hear stories of Brixham’s fascinating past. Local historian Kevin Dixon tells us about the lost scents of Torquay and Ian Handford introduces the pioneer who transformed Paignton into a hugely popular seaside resort during the Victorian era. Our What’s On, Theatre and Arts sections are starting to become more fully populated as local events are cautiously returning. Slightly further afield we take a visit to Dartington’s wonderful estate and gardens with its miles of woodland walks. On the business side Carolyn Custerson explains how the tourism industry can capitalise on the current popularity of seaside towns as we recover from the pandemic. If you are looking for some quiet, relaxing pursuits, we have a lovely walk, some gardening tips and our latest local book reviews.

Created and Published By Devon Magazine Company Limited Julian Rees julian@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Telephone 01803 842893 Mobile: 07455 206470 Anita Newcombe anita@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Telephone: 01803 850886 Advertising Sales sales@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Advertising Copy copy@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Editorial editorial@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Website englishrivieramagazine.co.uk ISSN (Print) 2052-8515 ISSN (Online) 2052-8523

Next issue 30 July Write to us at: ENGLISH RIVIERA MAGAZINE 69 DAVIES AVENUE PAIGNTON TQ4 7AW © 2018 All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form without prior permission of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, Devon Magazine Company Ltd will not accept liability for loss or damage. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of our content but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any omissions, errors or alterations or for the consequences of any reliance on these details; neither can they vouch for the accuracy of claims made by any advertiser.

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers.

@EngRivieraMag englishriveramag f englishriveramagazine englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

Happy reading and keep safe this summer.

If you would like to ADVERTISE your business in English Riviera Magazine Call 01803 850886 or email sales@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Walks • Local Food • Heritage • Nature • People • Events • Arts

EnglishRiviera June/July 2019

magazine

A Sailing Adventure with

Trinity

THE MANY TALENTS OF

MACKENZIE MOULTON

Wilfred Owen's

Torquay Vacation A Lifetime in Art

MARTIN DUTTON

FESTIVALS!

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ROLLER SKATING

Debbie MacPherson Fashioning Leather

Vistas & Views on the coastpath

Occombe & Paignton Harbour

Armchair Twitcher

Feathered friends in your garden

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June/July 2021 | 3

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In this issue | June/July 2021 6 Openers Local news snippets

14 Meeting Chloe Pavely Chill out at Fishcombe

19 John Kennar Brixham’s fascinating past

22 Heritage - Arthur Hyde Dendy

33 Interiors update 19 Local man heads south!

Ian Handford on the Paignton Pioneer

24 Torquay - Easy on the nose?

Kevin Dixon sniffs out the evidence

27 Book Reviews Latest releases from local authors

29 Improve Your Home!

Cook-in and cook-out

30 Walk A wander around Stoke Gabriel

33 What’s On Our pick of local events

39 Local exhibitions 22 Arthur Hyde Dendy

36 Theatre Time to get back to theatre

39 Arts Roundup Enjoy exhibitions & arty events

43 Dartington Estate Tranquillity & foodie delights

45 Gardening The Torbay Trebuchet

48 Business Keeping tourism on track

On the cover

Torquay Town Dock © Ian Woolcock

43 Visit Dartington Estate

englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 5

Record Booking Success Award-winning holiday letting agency Coast & Country Cottages is seeing a continued surge in enquiries and bookings for 2021. Managing Director Jon Doyle says, “We are delighted to see our property occupancy rate for July and August is already well over 90%. With a massive interest in the autumn months and October half term, indications suggest the 2021 season will last longer than ever – a real boost for the region.” To meet the continuing demand for accommodation in Brixham, the agency has further expanded its portfolio in the area. Recently added is the romantic retreat Pilchard Cottage, which has achieved 22 bookings after just three months of being live on the website. Thinking of letting your holiday home? There has never been a better time to join Coast & Country Cottages. To find out more, please call Rachel Farley on 01803 227990 (option 3) or visit coastandcountry.co.uk 

amazing achievement.   disabledsailingassociation.org.uk

Barnstorming Donation Paignton Rotary raised an impressive £1540 for Torbay Holiday Helpers Network in spite of having to cancel their fundraising barn dance. Most ticket holders donated their refunds to the charity and a hamper raffle also contributed to the total. Torbay Holiday Helpers Network (THHN) is a charity, which provides memorymaking holidays to families struggling with serious illness or bereavement. To learn more please contact enquiries@thhn.co.uk or John Bunce 01803 900101. The Rotary Clubs In Torbay are always on the lookout for new members. Besides the charitable side of Rotary, they also have great fun and friendship whilst participating in activities. Please contact Sue Kirkham 07944 410719 or mrsk03@icloud.com for further details. 

Queen Mary 2 Marathon Crewmembers of Queen Mary 2, which became a familiar and iconic sight in Tor Bay, have completed a marathon round their splendid decks in aid of the Torquay-based Disabled Sailing Association. The crew raised £1000 to support the charity, which runs two modern oceangoing yachts Freedom and Free Spirit out of Torquay Harbour. It is a voluntary association of the abled and disabled, all unpaid, which provides a unique opportunity for disabled people to enjoy the excitement, freedom and companionship of sailing. No sailing experience is required. Ship’s Chief Doctor, Gerry McCabe organized the marathon event and 40 members of the crew undertook the challenge. Disabled Sailing Association’s President (and founder) Dave Musgrove and the Chairman Peter Turner warmly thanked the crew of the Queen Mary 2 for their 6

| June/July 2021

Mike Kirkham (President Rotary Club of Paignton) and Martin Brook (Director THHN)

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Based on the ancient ritual of bathing, where the body is treated using a series of hot and cooling experiences, Aztec Fire & Ice is designed to stimulate all the senses and can be booked as a standalone experience or as an addition to spa treatments. The new development is due to open later this summer and includes an 8-person hydro pool, a herbal sauna, a Finnish sauna, an aroma treatment room, a drench bucket, an ice fountain, a shower experience, heated loungers and a Zen relaxation area and juice bar. For further details contact the Aztec Spa on 01803 400190.   tlh.co.uk/aztec-spa

been beavering away sprucing up the displays, building exhibitions and planning events, the core of which will focus on a celebration of the Museum’s 175th anniversary.

For more details see our What’s On section in this issue. 

Dancing Flamingos Reader Competition The winning entry to our recent reader competition was Victoria Bowen of Brixham who correctly identified 1976 as the year Torbay Civic Society was launched. She wins a copy of Famous Devon Figures by Torbay Civic Society’s Chairman Ian Handford. 

TORBA

Y CIV IC

SOCIE

TY

Famous

DEV FIGUROEN S VOLU

ME II 60 short biographies of famous past and present, associa figures, ted with Devon

Compiled

Ian L. Han by dford Published

by Devon

Magazine

Company

Ltd

Torquay Museum – Residents’ Offer Torquay Museum has reopened its doors after almost five months of closure due to the Covid19 pandemic.

To celebrate, local people will get a 50% discount on the admission price, and their ticket will entitle them to visit the museum free of charge for a whole year. Torquay Museum’s Director, Basil Greenwood says, “We have really missed our visitors, with the hustle and bustle of people enjoying everything the museum has to offer.” Despite being closed for such a long period, museum staff have 8

| June/July 2021

Paignton Zoo has unearthed some unusual facts about flamingos. Steve Nash, Curator of Birds at Paignton Zoo says, “As the days lengthen and the UVA levels strengthen, it triggers a response in birds to breed. Our male flamingos demonstrate this through dance. They dance to attract a female mate and it’s estimated that older male flamingos have a repertoire of over 130 different moves.”

Female flamingos will also select a mate based on how pink he is. A pinker male flamingo is able to show that he is better at foraging. When rearing chicks both parents produce a red coloured ‘crop milk’ to feed their baby. Parent flamingos become paler as the chick gets older as rearing young literally drains the colour out of them. Paignton Zoo is hopeful for flamingo chicks later this year. 

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superb views out to sea from its large bay window.

The property’s gorgeous dining room is flooded with natural light from the overhead skylight and is open plan with a fabulous kitchen that leads out to a private courtyard garden. Furnished with a bistro table and chairs, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee and chat about the day’s plans.

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For example, within Torbay you’ll find Bay House; it’s an elegant period town house perfectly set above Brixham Harbour. With wonderful views over the bay, this lovely home has four beautiful bedrooms, spacious living areas, a private garden and off-road parking.

Inside the home you’ll discover a sophisticated reception room with occasional seating and a traditional fireplace. The tasteful sitting room furnished with a comfortable L-shaped sofa, armchair and fireplace is a bright and welcoming space, with

and a large family bathroom with walk-in shower cubicle and freestanding bathtub. The upper floor of the home has a further two bedrooms, including a bright and airy double with its own ensuite shower room, and a single that’s perfect for younger members of the family.

Luxury Coastal’s customers love Brixham and Torbay and we are looking forward to welcoming many of our visitors to this lovely part of South Devon in 2021. Do get in touch with Luxury Coastal if you have a selfcatering property to let.   luxurycoastal.co.uk 0330 113 7005

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June/July 2021 | 13

CHLOE

PAVELY

BEACH HUT HEAVEN Chloe Pavely gave up a secure career to follow her “in the clouds” dream of working in a beach hut and now runs beautiful Fishcombe Cove Café in a spectacular coastal setting in Brixham. Anita Newcombe drops by for a chat.

A

lthough born locally, Chloe grew up in a tiny valley in North Wales coming regularly to Brixham on her holidays; her absolute favourite spot was always Fishcombe Cove. After returning to the area at the age of eighteen and gaining experience in a number of jobs, she started working for a demolition company, first on reception but gradually working her way up to machinery procurement work. She loved her work, was fascinated by machines and seemed settled to a long and successful career. She tells me, “I always knew I’d return to the Bay – once it’s in the blood it’s hard to stay away.”

However, fate now took a hand in her future. One very cold grey February day in 2018 she strolled down to Fishcombe Cove and what she saw made her feel wild with excitement – a sign on the café saying ‘For Sale’.

“That’s it!” she thought. She dashed home to tell her family and searched online to find further details but 14 | June/July 2021

couldn’t find a thing. Rushing back to Fishcombe she found a mobile number and went on to make the call that was to completely change her life.

She tells me, “Even though I was super keen to take over the café, It took a while to get the ball rolling as I had no experience of running a business.” Chloe had some savings but needed to raise further funds to proceed.

She was put in touch with Kim Thornton at the Torbay Development Agency who was amazingly helpful and, although it proved quite difficult, helped her to secure financing.

Chloe also had practically no experience of catering although she had worked in cafés, baked cakes and had done food tech at school. She didn’t know when she would get the keys to Fishcombe Cove Café but knowing it could be imminent she worked as a volunteer for the previous owner for a week in July, finding out how things

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Riviera People the time and together they launched an online fundraiser were done and how to work the till. It was just as well (Spend a Penny Appeal), which successfully raised funds that she did this, as she eventually got the keys and the to keep the toilet block open. Local businesses have also go-ahead to proceed with just 10 hours notice. This was donated cleaning products but it was the sisters along Friday evening at 5pm in a busy July and she had to open with local residents who put in the hard work to clean and up her new business at 9am the very next morning. Her spruce up the building for the public. Locals have also entire family rallied round including Mum and Dad been helping to litter pick, and brother and sister and cut the grass and trim the soon they were all cooking, Chloe’s ethos is to be as hedges and Chloe continues serving, washing up and environmentally friendly as to open, close, supply and helping in any way they possible and this includes clean the toilets daily. Chloe could. working with a number of said, “It’s been an amazing One of the first things charities including The Seal Chloe did was to reduce Project, the Community Seagrass community effort and we are thrilled with the results.” single use plastic by 90%.

Initiative and Healthscape Astonishingly Fishcombe She now uses biodegradable Cove Café won Gold Award as Café of the Year at the or compostable items or keep-cups. No plastic bottles 2020 Devon Tourism Awards – a huge and prestigious are used (except recyclable water bottles) – most of the achievement for the new business and for Chloe herself. drinks are now served in cans. Her ethos is to be as It then went on to win bronze for Best Café of the Year environmentally friendly as possible and this includes across the South West region. This wonderful café serves working with a number of charities including The homemade and locally made cakes and is renowned for Seal Project, the Community Seagrass Initiative and its bread bowls and soups including seafood chowder and Healthscape (an open water swimming and mental health group). The café is often a venue for talks including about seals, jellyfish and other topics and Chloe and her team do an early morning beach clean at the cove every day.

Last summer there was a potential setback when the council announced that they had no funds to maintain the toilet facilities at the cove. Luckily Chloe’s sister Emilia was working with her at

“

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June/July 2021 | 15

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Riviera People Brixham crab and asparagus soup. The brunch bowls are also popular. When I visited it was operating as a takeaway due to Covid restrictions but they were hoping to resume table service and their legendary burger nights by the end of May or early June. There’s no alcohol licence yet, but that may hopefully come in the not-too-distant future.

Now that sister Emilia has returned to Bristol, Chloe has a new team helping her. Chloe tells me, “We have recently recruited a new team who are wonderful individuals and all share a passion for the ocean and the environment which is important here at the cove.” The café is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am (Monday is a single day off) and stays open till around 4pm, depending on how busy the beach is that day. Chloe closes the café in the winter and would normally work abroad at this time, although not last winter due to the global pandemic.

She tells me, “I think that business will boom this year. The ER BID Company has done an amazing marketing job. We’ve got lots of Londoners visiting

Events at Fishcombe Cove Café June 24 – Seal Talk from The Seal Project to understand more about the fascinating creatures you can frequently see here. Enjoy a pleasant evening at the cove with music, from 6.30pm, tickets £7; funds go to project. Café will be open.

July 3 – Interactive Storytelling Show (ages 5+) 4.30pm (lasts 1 hour), perfect for adults and kids, this fun show will approach topics such as overcoming your fears, in an adventure packed story about Barney englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

now.” Chloe thinks Brixham is simply fabulous and loves the independent shops on winding Middle Street (among others) saying. “It gives the place an awesome feel.”

Chloe describes herself as a social butterfly and when not working loves to socialise, attend events and listen to live music. Together with boyfriend Danny who works locally for outdoor adventure specialists Reach Outdoors, they enjoy snorkeling, paddle boarding, sea kayaking and occasionally surfing. They’ve covered the whole of the Bay from Anstey’s Cove to St Mary’s Bay in a variety of crafts. They also love visiting local pubs and favourites include: The Prince William and the The Manor Pub in Brixham and The Spinning Wheel Inn in Paignton.

Chloe says, “Running Fishcombe Beach Café has met my expectations and far beyond – I am happy and amazingly fulfilled here. It’s not just a café but also a community hub and working in a beach hut is definitely my dream come true.”  @fishcombecovecafe f fishcombecovecafe

the Horse. Tickets: adults £5, children £3. Cupcakes and squash included.

July 20 – Healthscape Sea Therapy 5.30 – 8.30pm, a talk on the mental health benefits of cold-water immersion with guest speakers, tickets £6, VIP tickets including snorkel trip available.

Buy tickets from café or by emailing fishcombecovecafe@gmail.com indicating chosen event, name/s and number tickets required.

June/July 2021 | 17

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John Kennar

Riviera People

Brixham Heritage Museum

A retired lawyer who has returned to his birthplace in Brixham, John Kennar has become Chair of this fascinating local museum. Through family history research, he has discovered an illustrious ancestor who served on the Discovery with the Scott Antarctic Expedition. Anita Newcombe finds out more.

I

astonishing £33,000 when a collector sold them in 2006. ’m meeting John Kennar together with museum John tells me, “Through Brixham Heritage Museum volunteer and popular local singer, songwriter and poet I’ve found out a great deal about my family history.

Maggie Duffy in one of the new outdoor cafés under the Apart from Tom, there’s no one remotely famous or cover of the Old Fish Market at Brixham. notable but my Brixham-based family can be traced back Brixham Heritage Museum is well known for its to 1555. I have had a duplicate set of Tom Kennar’s successful Family History Research Centre and John medals made up Kennar was keen for display by me to find out more and these will be about his recently donated to the discovered ancestor museum at some Tom Kennar who future point.” lived in Overgang In fact, for nigh in Brixham. on 200 years, Tom was born in John’s family Brixham in 1876 were involved in and worked as a the local fishing sailing trawlerman industry and before joining although his the Royal Navy parents moved in 1891. He was the family to subsequently Plymouth when selected to Tom Kennar - Petty officer, 2nd class, R.N (top row 5th from left) he was just two become part of years old, Brixham is still very close to his heart. He only Scott’s Antarctic Expedition from 1901 – 1904. Having returned about 18 months ago following his retirement survived the expedition he then went on to distinguish as a lawyer in Hampshire and he has now become Chair himself at Jutland, being awarded the Russian Medal of St of Brixham Heritage Museum. There is no shortage of George for valour. In fact his medal collection raised an

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June/July 2021 | 19

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Riviera People things to plan and oversee with the award-winning, freeto-enter museum reopening on 1 June.

The building was Brixham’s old police station and originally had 3 cells. One has been removed to make room for displays and one still remains laid out as a prison cell. Inside the cell currently sits a mannequin of Priscilla Bulley, one of the female Fish Hawkers of Brixham; she was imprisoned for one night for affray and disturbing the peace. Maggie Duffy has provided the Priscilla mannequin with a hauntingly beautiful recorded song, The Little Town of Brixham, which keeps her story alive to those who choose to stop by and listen. The song is a precursor to her subsequent rant in a strong local accent as she recounts the unfairness of the state in which she finds herself.

Lord Churston had given the Fish Hawker Women a licence in 1864 but when Patricia arrived to collect some fish she had ordered, she was frustrated to find it had already been sold to a male buyer. Patricia roundly abused the buyer and that’s why Maggie she ended up in the cells. There the recreated Priscilla sits so many years later (even though she was only sentenced to one night), where a motion sensor triggers her plaintive song and issues her heartfelt rant, (courtesy of Maggie Duffy) as visitors come by.

There are many other wonderful exhibits within the museum including Britain in the Great War (including the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic). The Maritime Room is packed with sailing trawler history with models of the traditional trawlers and all kinds of tools and equipment.

There’s also a Brixham Heroes exhibit, which currently highlights those who distinguished themselves in WW2.

John is hoping to include a tribute to Tom Kennar for his service in both world wars and his exploits with Scott

of the Antarctic. He tells me, “Tom Kennar had been forgotten but I’m determined to bring his astonishing story back to life.”

You can all see the kind of daily lives that people led in Victorian Brixham including how they worked, what they ate and where they went to school. You’ll also learn about the soldiers and fortifications at Berry Head, designed to protect the warships of the Royal Navy from the dreaded Napoleon Bonaparte.

There’s a Children’s Room with a model railway of old Brixham Station. Don’t miss the old fishing family’s kitchen parlour and the shoemaker display.

When the museum reopens on 1 June,it will offer six days a week freeof-charge entry (Tuesday to Sunday).

However, it obviously costs a lot to run this fascinating treasure of Brixham’s past so donations are very welcome and there’s always plenty for volunteers to do. The museum is usually closed during the winter months but John explains that he’s hoping to open for Duffy some weeks from October this year.

Being Chair of Brixham Heritage Museum sounds like a highly fulfilling but big job. John tells me, “I’m retired but like to keep busy. Apart from the museum I am also involved a little with Vigilance of Brixham, the historic gaff-rigged sailing trawler. It’s simply wonderful to be back in Brixham.” He can’t wait to get back to the pub where he likes to relax with a newspaper and his Great Dane. The Manor and the Market Inn are among his favourites.

A visit to Brixham Heritage Museum is much more fun and eye opening than you might realise. Children will love it and adults will be fascinated by the wonderfully visual insight into life in Brixham over the centuries.  brixhammuseum.uk maggieduffy.co.uk

Arthur Hyde Dendy Paignton Pioneer

Arthur Hyde Dendy transformed Paignton and its seafront, building hotels and introducing an omnibus service, theatres, a cycle track, archery range and bathing machines as well as notably, building Paignton Pier.

Torbay Civic Society Chairman, Ian Handford tells us more.

W

e had three distinguished solicitors leading the towns of Torbay during the Victorian era. In Torquay it was William Kitson, in Brixham Richard Wolston and in Paignton Arthur Hyde Dendy, who had moved into the town after practising as a barrister in Birmingham. Married with one daughter this successful lawyer would within twenty years transform Paignton and its seafront. As an active entrepreneur he built hotels and two theatres, also creating the first bathing machine business and omnibus company so that he could provide a regular public service for passengers to get to and from Torquay. In essence Mr Dendy changed the lifestyles of local people and in time his services would transform the ever-growing interests of tourists in Torbay.

He built the Gerston Hotel followed by an Esplanade Hotel (today - the Inn the Green) before building the Adelphi and Terra Nova properties, later known as the recently demolished 22 | June/July 2021

Park Hotel. It was from his Esplanade Hotel that he operated his bathing machine hire business through a ‘Bathing Machine Company’. Behind the hotel he created a cycle track, before setting up a local newspaper business, which in time published many travel guides. Then finally in 1877-8 his thoughts turned towards what was to be his most ambitious project - to provide a pier for Paigntonians.

Arthur Hyde Dendy was born in London and qualified as a lawyer in Birmingham where he became very rich.

On retiring from Birmingham he brought his family to Paignton where now, as an active investor, he started to establish numerous companies for his many and varied businesses. His first venture came in 1870 when building the Gerston Hotel. It capitalised on the railway, which had just arrived in the town courtesy of Isambard K Brunel.

With the main station opposite the Gerston Hotel on

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Riviera Heritage Hyde Road, Mr Dendy now built the Esplanade Hotel today the oldest building on the Esplanade. It was from here the locals could hire his bathing machines for use on the beach. With mixed bathing then illegal in Torbay, males and females bathed apart and men would be prosecuted for getting too close to a ladies bathing machine. The Duchy of Cornwall owned all the western foreshores and quiet beaches were often used for nude bathing. However, mixed bathing (then known as continental bathing) was only made legal in October 1900, after public taste had changed. Over in Torquay the law was not relaxed and it was years before they changed their rules. In fact Torquay became recognised as one of the last resorts on the South Coast not to allow continental or “mixed” bathing.

The entrepreneurial risks taken by Mr Dendy were huge, yet the speed of change was quite incredible. His horsedrawn omnibus service was up and running by 1872, his Bijou Theatre was opened in 1873, although in truth this was a piece of Victorian extravaganza, being little larger than a normal sized drawing room within the Gerston Hotel. But it was Dendy’s way of being seen as a patron of the arts or as his newly published guidebook said, “The Bijou theatre …is elegantly - nay, luxuriously - fitted up where high class theatrical and other entertainments frequently take place”.

By now his private omnibuses were used to travel to and from Paignton on scheduled services, which even included an evening service, so that audiences could safely return to Torquay after the show at the Bijou had ended.

Next Dendy purchased the Teignmouth Pier for £1100, intending to have it dismantled and rebuilt on Paignton Seafront. He soon realised that the idea was impracticable, as extensive rusting meant movement was impossible and so Teignmouth Pier had to be rebuilt which took him some time. Meanwhile, in 1873 he acquired land from the Steartfield Estate owned by another famous man of the area, William Froude, who was in partnership with Edward Studdy. The purchase enabled Dendy to start draining the marshland on the front Esplanade, in advance of what would become his lasting legacy - a pier for Paignton. He needed Royal Assent for the project and this took until 1874. What he said was, “his flair for spending money to make more” was now really put to the test. It took another two years before in 1878, a Paignton Pier Company was formed. Local architect George Bridgman created the

Dendy ’s house on Paignto

n Esplanade

design and by June 1879 Paignton’s first ever pier was open to the public.

In 1881 the pier was extended so a longer walkway emerged, much as Mr Dendy had originally envisaged.

Now a pavilion, a theatre plus refreshment rooms and two billiard tables were installed while outside a roller skating surface and changing rooms for seafront bathers were also built. By 1883 Mr Dendy had created his cycle track behind the Esplanade - an innovation he described in his Dendy Guidebooks as, “one of the safest, best and most scientific yet constructed in the country”. The track incorporated an archery range (410 by 110 feet) at the centre and they seasonally allowed the track to be used

by Paignton’s Scarlet Runners XV. A club with dressing rooms, accommodation and refreshment rooms, then allowed audiences of up to 250 in a new grandstand. The venue later became the headquarters of the famous Scarlet Runners XV Club.

Arthur Hyde Dendy died at Paignton on 13th August 1886. He was survived by his wife who died a year later on 10th August 1887. Arthur is remembered as we drive along Hyde Road and Dendy Road, both honouring his name.

His Pier Theatre was lost in a fire in 1919 and was never rebuilt. As if to add insult to injury, a section of the inshore walkway was then removed as an “anti-invasion precaution” during the Second World War. Arthur Dendy, this “Maker of Paignton”, was once asked why he chose Paignton and not Torquay and his simple reply, “Torquay was made for Paigntonians to look at”.   torbaycivicsociety.co.uk

The Stench & Perfume of Old Torquay

When we look at a picture of Victorian Torquay there’s one thing that we can’t see.

That’s what the town actually smelled like.

And it stank. Kevin Dixon gives us a whiff of the lost scents of our seaside town.

T

he smell would have hit you instantly- a mixture of neighbouring houses. There was also a water tank at animal dung, human waste, body odour, coal and Torre, two in St Marychurch, two in Torwood and a wood smoke. While this is true of other Victorian towns, spring at the Braddons. While the availability of water Torquay experienced exceptional growth, much of which, increased with the construction of Chapel Hill reservoir in the early days, was crammed into a narrow valley. In in 1856 and a second reservoir in the Warberries in 1872, 1800 there were only around 800 people in Torquay; by there was still restricted access for many.

1841 the population had risen to 5,982; a decade later to Then there was body odour. It was common to go for 11,474; and by 1901 had reached 33,625. weeks without washing the body, though hands, feet and First of all, there was the ever-present coal and wood faces were still washed regularly. Men and women with smoke. Every home and business needed energy and money covered any unpleasantness with perfume; it wasn’t had to burn something; the result would be soot and the until 1888 that we saw the invention of the first successful smoke of hundreds of fires saturating the sky. brand of commercial deodorant called ‘Mum’ (believed to There would be horses everywhere drawing coaches have derived from “Mum’s the word” indicating keeping and flatbed delivery carts. something quiet).

They worked all day and A real challenge was This was a town claiming to be the were constantly hungry and the increasing amounts of richest in England where women thirsty. With few places to human waste. Every home in sumptuous flowing gowns and dispose of animal waste, men in tailored suits carved a path had a cesspool. Ideally this it was found all over the was located in the back through people dressed in rags. streets. There were no public garden away from the house, toilets and the river Fleet was effectively an open sewer - it but in more congested areas it was in the basement. was also a source of drinking water. Perhaps surprisingly, Cesspools were built to be porous so the liquid part of the everyday household waste wasn’t a great problem. Refuse waste could seep away into the ground - and often into was valuable and as much as possible was recycled, dustthe nearby river Fleet. ‘Night soil men’ then removed the yards being driven by profit rather than any legislation or residue. Torquay was a deeply divided society with the public health concerns. rich living in the villas on the hills while the poor lived in Today we take the availability of water for granted deep valleys. Consequently, the smell could often inform but it was once far less accessible, for both washing and you of your location – the affluent Warberries or working drinking. At first Torquay derived its water from springs, class Torre. wells and rainwater tanks, and from 1826, the Palk When the Canadian visitor Isabella Cowen visited in Water Works. Water was then collected at a reservoir 1892 she recorded, “I have seen more luxury since being at Ellacombe, fed by its own springs, which supplied in Torquay than in all my previous life.” This was a town

“

24 | June/July 2021

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Riviera Heritage claiming to be the richest in England where women in sumptuous flowing gowns and men in tailored suits carved a path through people dressed in rags.

Visitors to the town had guidebooks giving information on which places to visit and which places to avoid. Other clues would be found in local names. Clearly, Belgravia would be suitable for the wealthy visitor, while Pimlico less so. The aroma of a neighbourhood would further inform of the social standing of its inhabitants.

The night Several developments soil men made local folk accept that change had to be made.

The most important was the realisation that poor sanitation caused disease.

In 1849 sixty-six people died from cholera and dysentery. Many of the dead were buried in Cholera Corner in the churchyard of what is now the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Andrew. As was to be expected, the cases occurred mainly in those oldest and poorest districts.

In response, Torquay adopted the Public Health Act and the first meeting of the Local Board of Health took place in September 1850. Conditions then gradually began to improve. In 1865 the Local Board of Health made “a good wide street between the bottom of Union Street and the Strand.” This replaced the narrow alleyways on both sides of the River Fleet. At the same time, the odoriferous Fleet was confined to a tunnel - and it’s still there.

In 1848 the Public Health Act began waste regulation, while a second act in 1875 put an end to scavenging.

Households were then obliged to store their waste in ‘a movable receptacle’. And so the modern dustbin was born. Though the authorities were taking action to tackle overcrowding and disease, it still took decades for people to accept that local government had a role in how they managed their household, their rubbish, and their toilet facilities.

Progress was nonetheless being made. One technological advance was the invention of the water closet with its wallmounted cistern. Becoming popular in the 1870s, these were initially connected to the old cesspools. However, the extra volume of flushing water was overwhelming and caused an escalating stench in the home. New sewer systems were already in place but were designed just for rainwater. The need to remove human waste from the household quickly gave them a new function.

The upper classes were first to install elegant baths in their villas. However, even after indoor plumbing became a necessity instead of a novelty, it still took some time before people thought of bathing as something to do every day. Motorcars replaced horses, and we adopted new cleaning devices such as showers and toothbrushes.

As better hygiene took hold, strong perfumes for both men and women were no longer essential to combat personal aromas, and so the industry aligned itself more with fashion and with women.

And gradually, the stench would diminish, and there would be new fragrances in Torquay’s streets. 

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FINALIST

2020

Early Summer

Reading...

Why not give these local authors a try?

We loved these delightful reads.

Last Chance Mill Susan Iona Swan Galmpton resident Susan Swan has been longlisted for the Devon and Cornwall International Novel Prize with this humorous tale about Dawn and Douglas who relocate from London to a ramshackle old mill in Torbay. Having both been sacked from their jobs in the capital, it is Douglas who is keen to start afresh with an art holidays business while Dawn is much less certain, regretting the loss of her lovely quartz and limestone kitchen in Crouch End. As the scale of the challenge gradually becomes more apparent with flooding, bats and intruders plus obstacles thrown in their way from various quarters, the couple’s two children return from university to lend a hand. Meanwhile, life in the Bay throws some hard knocks including a dramatic wild swimming emergency at Elberry Cove and a pungent introduction to the realities of the countryside. It’s an amusing insight into the consequences of trying to live the dream and escape the past as Dawn and Douglas struggle to get Last Chance Mill ready for guests before they run out of funds. A real page-turner and fun read.   susanswanwriter.com

Riviera Authors T O R B AY C I V inventors, beloved IC SOCIETY entertainers, passionate Famous politicians, TV stars, poets D EVON and writers, capricious FI G URES clergy and many more people who loved Torbay and Devon will astound and delight you. Written and compiled by Ian Handford of Torbay Civic Society this Ian L. Handford high quality book is a followup to his popular earlier collection.   englishrivieramagazine.co.uk VOLUME II

60 short biographies of famous past and present, associa figures, ted with Devon

Compiled by

Published by Devon

Magazine Compa

ny Ltd

The Adventures of the Princess of the Sea Arthur Gordon Torbay resident Arthur Stockwell’s latest children’s book is the second in The Princess of the Sea series. It is a beautifully designed and illustrated children’s book about Miranda, a beautiful mermaid who lives in a cave at the bottom of the Mewstone, an outcrop just off Dartmouth.

She also has a mer-sister called Marianne. This latest adventure story has Miranda rescuing a swashbuckling, legend-telling pirate Captain James Pendragon into Dartmouth where he decides to settle. We also meet Basil the French-speaking basking shark, Dolly the dolphin, a colony of grey seals including Miranda’s seal neighbours Sam and Mary, Gertie the tame seagull, Edward and Edwina the buzzards, and many more delightful friends.

Set in Torbay and Dartmouth, you’ll find many familiar places such as Thatcher Rock, Orestone, Brixham, Warfleet Creek, Gallants Bower, Castle Cove and Kingswear. A great treat for children of all ages.   ahstockwell.co.uk

Famous Devon Figures Ian Handford This superbly illustrated and beautifully designed book contains 60 short biographies of famous and influential people past and present, who have strong associations with Torbay and Devon. Packed with intriguing detail, amusing anecdotes and illuminating insight, your eyes will be opened to the sometimes strange and wonderful lives these big personalities lived. The extraordinary englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 27

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www.devansplumbingservices.co.uk 28 | June/July 2021

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Riviera Homes & Interiors

HOWTO:

KITCHEN UPDATES Summer has arrived and it’s time to integrate your outside space into everyday living. Whether you choose to open up your property with stylish bi-fold garden doors or take the kichen outside to cook al-fresco, it’ll be great to start entertaining in the fresh air again. >> Kitchen

Living

During the various lockdowns many of us have had time to realise that our kitchens don’t measure up to how we want to live nowadays. Whether you go for a complete replan and refit, a new set of doors or just some cosmetic work, think about how you want the kitchen to feel.

Greys and blues with a pop of colour can be very calming so maybe a repaint is called for and don’t forget the finish; gloss is fashionable but does it fit with your lifestyle - too many sticky fingers?

A lighter colour on the ceiling can give things a big lift as can a change in tiling or splashback. Finding space for a table or a well-positioned island for meals and homework can make all the difference.

Installing some under-cabinet lighting and new flooring can give a really relaxing feel and plenty of carefully thought-out storage solutions will help no end. Local suppliers will introduce you to a wealth of smart and innovative ideas to create your kitchen dream. >> Cook-in

or Cook Out

With the weather finally warming we can start to think about outdoor furniture and this year’s big thing is the garden kitchen (not to be confused with the kitchen garden!). This trend, originating in Australia, is sweeping the cooler climes and a whole range of options are available from elaborate off-thepeg designs to build your own options.

Think about the perfect location, and ensure materials are easy-clean and maintenance-free. Include a covered area so you don’t have to consult the weather forecast! englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 29

Village Walk

Stoke Gabriel Need to know

Distance: 2 miles Exertion: Easy Time: Allow 2 hours Terrain: Pathways and pavements.

Suitable for pushchairs.

Dogs: On leads on roads.

Refreshments: The River Shack, Church House Inn and Castle Inn. Start Postcode: TQ9 6QJ

S

toke Gabriel is a pretty village hidden at the end of a River Dart creek just 4 miles from the centre of the Bay. For those who grew up in the area it features in many childhood memories as a first encounter with the clawed kind - crabs! The Mill Pool still attracts throngs of children every weekend keen on crabbing so if you’re coming with young ones bring a bucket and line.

In the Domesday Book, a church is recorded here in 1073, the earliest official record of life in the village.

The churchyard is home to a magnificent Yew tree, thought to be near a thousand years old. Take a look at the chronology at the foot of the tree as you pause in the churchyard; it certainly gives perspective.

The village’s development can be tracked through the architectural styles of its dwellings and it’s nice to see that green spaces remain. Most are ancient orchards, planted to provide cider for the fisherman and farmers who inhabited the village in years gone by.

Take your time and enjoy village life.. 

| April/May 2021

1 We start our wander at the proud village sign

welcoming all, which is on the left hand side of the road where Paignton Road meets with Rydon Acres. There’s free parking here all day and our route loops back to finish here. Proceed downhill, as the road forks, bear left and continue.

2 Follow the road downhill for 300 metres in between cottages and dwellings, some opening onto the road others hidden behind high walls, pass the War Memorial on the left and stay on this road until you reach the centre of the village.

3 Pass the village post office on the right and on your left you will see the Church House Inn. Take the path towards the church in front of the inn and pretty cottages (one being the old school house) and take a minute to visit the churchyard and ancient yew tree.

4 Just before the entrance to the churchyard turn left down into the orchard. Follow the path downhill towards the edge of the Mill Pool.

Walk Ordnance Survey

© Crown copyright.

Media 082/19

N

1

8 2 7

3 4

5 6

7 To return follow Mill Hill up to the

Castle Inn and turn left on to School Hill and proceed past the village school and many more pretty cottages and dwellings.

8 After 300 metres turn right onto New Road which skirts another large orchard and returns you to the start of the route.

5 Through the gate at the edge of the orchard you

arrive on the edge of the Pool. If the tide is at its highest and springs then you might not be able to pass by here but generally it is passable. Turn right and follow the water’s edge.

6 Skirt the Pool to arrive at the River Shack and tidal weir. From here you can cross the weir and follow the riverbank or simply follow the riverbank to the right of the creek. At lower tides one can walk for a mile or so either way up the river bank but eventually both directions succumb to tidal mud. Again take care with the tide as the weir can become impassable and you may end up walking further than planned!

englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 31

W

n O s ’ t a Wh

Riviera What’s On Windows In Time, Torquay Museum

BAY AROUND THE

Please check before travelling as events are subject to change.

Windows in Time On till 5 September Enjoy a free exhibition of large format historic photographic images celebrating local heritage around the streets of Torbay, sited close to where they were originally taken.

Follow the trail around Torquay and Paignton and discover lost buildings, dramatic events and people from the past.

Download a trail map from the website.

Torquay Museum, 529 Babbacombe Road, Torquay TQ1 1HG torquaymuseum.org

Kents Cavern Now reopen Step into the Stone Age at these wonderful prehistoric caves.

Regular tours are running daily from 10am – 4pm, booking essential.

Isham Road, Torquay TQ1 2JF 01803 215136 kents-cavern.co.uk

Agatha Christie’s Greenway Now reopen Visit the stunning holiday home of the Queen of Crime.

House ground floor , garden, shop and caf ta eaway are open. Timed booking essential. Dogs on short leads welcome in garden.

Greenway Road, Galmpton TQ5 0ES 01803 842382 nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway

Now reopen Enjoy a visit to the country home of the D’Oyly Carte family and travel back in time to the Jazz Age. House (ground floor , garden, shop and caf ta eaway are open. imed booking essential. nationaltrust.org.uk/coleton-fishacre

Brixham Battery Heritage Centre

englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

ay

A seasonal ladies’ membership of £10 entitles you to a fun weekly hour-long training session followed by a sociable glass of Prosecco or soft drink afterwards.

Paignton Cricket Club, Queen’s Park, Queen’s Road, Paignton TQ4 6AT paigntoncricketclub.co.uk/membership

Wonderland at Torre Abbey 31 May – 6 June Join the White Rabbit on an adventure and explore the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland in this fun and interactive family promenade performance, taking place in the gardens at Torre Abbey.

There are multiple daily shows each with audiences up to 12 people. Booking essential. Wheelchair accessible (includes toilets and caf .

The King’s Drive, Torquay TQ2 5JE torre-abbey.org.uk

The Secret Museum Exhibition

Coleton Fishacre

Open Sundays, Mondays and Fridays 2-4pm lus special pen ays am 4pm including and Battle of Britain Memorial Day 4 July.

Fishcombe Hill, Brixham TQ5 8RU brixhambattery.net

Wine & Wickets Fridays 7pm

une

12 June – 4 September To celebrate Torquay Museum’s 175th Anniversary, 175 specially selected unseen items chosen from the museum stores y locals will e on display, often for the very first time.

All locals with a TQ postcode will get 50% off their admission fee and ticket gives unlimited entry for a year.

Torquay Museum, 529 Babbacombe Road, Torquay TQ1 1HG torquaymuseum.org

Torquay Museum’s 175th Pageant 12 June To celebrate their 175th anniversary Torquay Museum there will e a fun filled, colourful pageant through the streets of Torquay featuring a samba band and amazing creations made y locals, with performances from lfic the Jester and Isabella & the Story Bicycle.

Starts from Torquay Town hall at 1.30pm torquaymuseum.org June/July 2021 | 33

TOADS THEATRE COMPANY @ ST MARK’S ROAD MEADFOOT TORQUAY TQ1 2EL

2020 | 2021 SEASON

From 2 August - 7 September 2021 Check website for weekly dates

Booking from 1st July 2020

13 -18 December 2021

Directed by Anna Reynolds

Directed by John Miles A Film by

UNLEASHED COMMUNITY DRAMA

A scandal that divided

land’s richest resort 19theSeptember 2021 Matinee & Evening

7 - 12 March 2022

Directed by Alan Tanner

Bedroom Farce 17 - 22 January 2022

LAYING the

GHOST 4 - 9 April 2022

Directed by John Pierce

Directed by Stephanie Austin

30 January 2022

22 April 2022

Commissioned by St Mary Magdalene’s

INSPIRE PROJECT

Film premier Unleashed Theatre

4 - 9 October 2021

Directed by Mary Singleton

The Passing of the

Third Floor Back 9 - 12 February 2022 Tadpoles 21 - 24 October 2021 Unleashed Theatre

Directed by Martin Harris

16 - 21 May 2022

Directed by Andrew Kenyon

Directed by Becky Dobson YOUR

Get involved

NEED

THEA TRE

with local theatre! YOU!

S

Volunteer Membership is only £28 and comes with benefits and a chance to get involved in the running of the theatre.

15 - 20 November 2021

If you’d like to join our team pick up a membership form from the Box Office or telephone 01803 299330

STRICTLY MURDER IS A SECRET WORTH DYING FOR?

13 - 18 June 2022

Directors Nicola Opie & Jon Manley

Directed by Jill Pettigrew

Tel: 01803 299 330, Email: boxoffice@toadslittletheatre.co.uk Performance details and Online Booking: toadslittletheatre.co.uk

Riviera What’s On Outdoor Cinema, Torquay

Rowcroft’s Sleepwalk

17 & 18 June Enjoy an amazing outdoor cinema experience with Dirty Dancing showing on day one and Grease Sing-A-Long on day two. Book online.

Torquay Recreation Ground, The King’s Drive, Torquay TQ2 6NX adventurecinema.co.uk

3 July Support Rowcroft Hospice’s fabulous all-female, 5 or 10 mile fundraiser, setting off from Paignton Green or Torre Abbey and with a superhero theme for 2021.

01803 217641 rowcrofthospice.org.uk

Please checkHospice’s before travelling as events Rowcroft Male Trailare subject to change.

19-20 June The Male Trail is a fun, sponsored walk that’s about having lots of laughs and a lovely cold pint with friends while raising vital funds for Rowcroft Hospice.

01803 210800 themaletrail.com

Mayflower 400 3 July – 30 August An exhibition of artistic work inspired by the journey taken by the Mayflower 400 years ago. Included with admission fee.

Torre Abbey, The Kings Drive, Torquay TQ2 5JE torre-abbey.org.uk

n

n

English Riviera Open Bowls Tournament 20-26 June A friendly but competitive tournament hosted by three local clubs: Torquay Bowling Club, Victoria Bowling Club and King’s Bowling Club. englishriviera-tournament.com

Devon County Show 2-4 July The 125th Devon County Show will have its everpopular collection of amazing events with a packed programme of entertainment in the Main Arena, thousands of animals, a huge food fair, countless arts & crafts, an award-winning children’s farm, wonderful horses and ponies, magnificent vintage tractors and steam engines, a vast dog show, exciting live demonstrations, an incredible selection of craft beers & cider and lots more. This is an extraordinary 3-day show, mainly outdoors in the fresh air and definitely not to be missed! Advance tickets are on sale now.

Westpoint, Clyst St Mary, Exeter EX5 1DJ devoncountyshow.co.uk

Paignton Festival 24 July – 1 August An annual festival with lots of fun for the family.

Paignton Green TQ4 6BN paigntonfestival.com

Lupton Music Festival 31 July & 1 August Lupton House is hosting its first ever music festival with a great line up of local bands, a beer tent from Bays Brewery, hot food and market stalls.

Lupton House, Churston Ferrars, Brixham TQ5 0LD luptonmusicfestival.co.uk

If you are holding an event in August or September let us know and we’ll list it here!

Email the details to: editorial@englishrivieramagazine.co.uk Deadline for submissions 9 July

englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 35

e r t a e h T !

CURTAINS UP

Babbacombe Theatre o fice itor s ick SUPERSTARS n until cto er ues a s e nes a s This fabulous show features some of the most iconic stars of music, stage and screen, performed by a multi-talented cast with comedy, songs from movie and stage including 9-5, Top Gun, Hairspray, Jersey Boys, The Greatest Showman, Grease and Burlesque. With the hugely popular entertainer Steve Laister plus the wonderful talents of Paul Cobley, Wayne Martin, Lindsey Collard, Danze Chique and many more, it’s a show not to be missed. lso orth seeing o e usic une cto er hurs a s he ake hat erience ul

Palace Theatre, Paignton o

fice

itor s ick une ul selecte ates Clarissa is the wife of a diplomat. She is very clever at spinning tales of adventure but when a murder takes place in her drawing room she finds live drama harder to cope with. Desperate to dispose of the body before her husband gets back bringing with him a top secret visitor she enlists the help of her guests who reluctantly agree to help. A Bijou Theatre Productions summer season with the everpopular Jo Loosemore in the role of Clarissa and James Mackenzie-Thorpe as the crafty Inspector Lord. lso orth seeing or a in the o ies n u ience ith r e in i on une he an ho rote lfie n u ience at the alace une

Princess Theatre, Torquay o fice itor s ick THE ROLLING STONES STORY ul You can relive the band’s classic hits in The Rolling Stones Story, a high energy concert celebrating the music of the World’s Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band. lso orth seeing he lti ate oo ighters erience ul he o r ison tor ul

36 | June/July 2021

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Little Theatre, Torquay o fice itor s ick ‘ALLO ‘ALLO ugust e te er selecte ates All is not well at ‘Café René’. It’s 1942 in France and the ‘conquering heroes’ have disrupted the peaceful village of Nouvien to such an extent that René Artois, our genial host, doesn’t know which way to turn. Ever since the invasion, he has been forced to be nice to the occupying forces and at the same time try to keep up his standing as a patriot. René juggles to keep the peace, and fails. A TOADS season production.

lso orth seeing he ich he ure e te a ies a cto er

englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

er

June/July 2021 | 37

ARTIZAN COLLECTIVE CIC

Fleet Walk, 74 Fleet St, Torquay TQ2 5EB www.art-hub.co.uk (01803) 463385 collective@artizangallery.co.uk

ARTIZAN GALLERY

7 Lucius Street, Torquay, TQ2 5UW www.artizangallery.co.uk (01803) 428626 info@artizangallery.co.uk

38 | June/July 2021

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Arts R O U N D U P.

Please check before travelling as events are subject to change.

Torquay’s Artizan Gallery & Café Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturdays 10am-6pm 7 Lucius Street, Torquay, TQ2 5UW

Contrasting Environments 8-19 June A stunning twowoman show from an accomplished pair of Devon artists, Sue Williamson and Sarah Morris who Babbacombe Sarah Morris are inspired by their experiences of landscapes. It is this emphasis on experience that binds their work, whilst the subjects, with Sue’s focus on urban and built environments and Sarah’s on more rural plains, offer pleasing juxtapositions of subject matter and scene. Preview 5 June 6-8pm – booking essential. art-hub.co.uk/events-1/artist-preview-contrastingenvironments

Fire Water Stone 29 June – 17 July Rod Ashman combines his knowledge of media, techniques and processes to produce work that is inspired by the experience, senses and memory of a place. His work Across The Moor Rod Ashman is full of texture and charged with an emotional sense and essence of the space rather than a purely topographical view. Preview 26 June 6-8pm – booking essential. art-hub.co.uk/ex/ashman21 englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

Arts erfly a e & Bong Tree 29 June – 17 July Accomplished printmaker, Devon Guild member and regular exhibitor at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, Mike Tingle brings an exhibition of new Black Veined White Mike Tingle works to Artizan’s Courtyard Gallery. During this last lockdown Mike has experimented with ways of printing large insects onto canvas, celebrating their wonderful structure whilst at the same time drawing attention to the decline in numbers.

Alongside these works will be printmaking inspired by William Blake and work inspired by Mike’s love for Nonsense Poetry. Preview 26 June 6-8pm – booking essential. art-hub.co.uk/ex/tingle21

Coastal Villages - Calm & Chaos 27 July – 7 August Philip Eley is a naïve artist living in Paignton. He describes his paintings as ‘a little window of calm in a crazy world.’

Preview 24 July 6-8pm – Booking essential. art-hub.co.uk/ex/eley21

Dittisham Philip Eley

Gossamer Threads 27 July – 7 August Mhari Treharne and Emma Roberts are exhibiting work developed at the Newlyn School of Art over the last year.

During this time, they have recognised a strong resonance between their work with each of their practices embedded Nothing Else Matters Emma Roberts in a sense of narrative, nostalgia and memory.

Preview 24 July 6-8pm – booking essential art-hub.co.uk/ex/july21 June/July 2021 | 39

Helping you overcome every challenge

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40 | June/July 2021

Food & Shopping

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Arts Torquay’s Artizan Collective Gallery Wednesday – Sunday 11:00 – 16:00 Unit 5, 74 Fleet Street, Torquay TQ2 5EB

The Design Room On till 22 June This exhibition of printmaking welcomes makers of all mediums, traditional and digital graphic design, and urban artforms in a showcase, which will combine works presented in their raw and polished forms. art-hub.co.uk/ex/tdr21 Poppies Deborah Treliving

English Riviera Summer Open 5 July – 29 August This show is Artizan’s nod to the wonderful Royal Academy Summer Show and will welcome artists of all ages and disciplines to show work alongside each other, some exhibiting for the first time, ru ing shoulders with other more established Last Summer Ha el Mc a artists. Launch event 3 July – booking essential. art-hub.co.uk/ex/erso21 juliebrandon@artizangallery.co.uk 07522 509642 artizan gallery.co.uk art-hub.co.uk

The GALLERY @Cockington Court 10.30am-4.30pm daily Ongoing selling exhibition showing the region’s leading artists and ma ers. isit the L e hi ition with James Murch and other local makers & artists in the Kitchen Gallery until 21 June. Don’t miss the fabulous craft studios too!

01803 607230 Facebook @cockingtoncourt

Dartmouth Art & Craft Weekend 26 & 27 June A vibrant weekend held in aid of Children’s Hospice South West. Expect beautiful art, crafts, cards and gifts plus music, children’s activities, homemade cakes, cream teas and sandwiches.

Royal Avenue Gardens, Dartmouth TQ6 9PS 01803 770730 tweed833@btinternet.com

Dartington Summer School 24 July – 21 August Since 1953, the Dartington Trust has been bringing musicians together every year for a unique event to learn, perform, collaborate, grow, and experience the joy of music.

After an enforced break in 2020, the Summer School & estival returns in uly for a true cele ration of all things musical. There are also many short courses coming up at artington including oo inding, printma ing, flower arranging, painting and Taiko drumming. dartington.org/whats-on

Brixham Art Society Summer Art Exhibition 28 July – 7 August A colourful and exuberant post-lockdown exhibition. View original paintings, drawings and prints, in a wide variety of subject matter, including local scenes. All work is for sale. Held from 0am pm daily last day ends . 0pm . ree entry.

Scala Hall, Market Street, Brixham TQ5 8EU brixhamartsociety.co.uk Boats At Rest Ernie Lee

Chasing Rainbows, Torre Abbey On till 27 June A powerful emblem in the last year, the rainbow is the theme of Torre Abbey’s Spring Open Exhibition. Artists working in all mediums will be creating a timely celebration of rainbows.

Expect a kaleidoscope celebration of colour, where the sky is the limit and rainbows are a bridge to more positive and peaceful future. Entry included with admissions fee.

The King’s Drive Torquay TQ2 5 JE torre-abbey.org.uk englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 41

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Out & About

Dartington’s Gardens & Estate The 1200-acre Dartington estate is a great place to head this summer for both tranquillity and entertainment. It boasts many miles of woodland walks, river paths and the Deer Park for everyone to enjoy.

I

t’s worth noting that a fee has now been introduced for entry to the gardens. This is designed to help with the costs of the upkeep of the 26 acre Grade II listed gardens which feature stunning landscapes, sculptures by famous artists, and a unique collection of plants and ancient trees.

The visitor experience has been enhanced with new interpretation boards and an updated map. A brand new children’s activity trail has been created and the gardens have been made more accessible by improving the stepfree access route paths, which are now much better for buggies and wheelchairs and can take visitors all the way around to the whispering circle.

The wider estate remains free for all to use and this includes all the woodland walks, river paths and the Deer Park plus the White Hart and the Green Table Café.

Dartington has become a real foodie destination of late.

Founder of The Green Table, Tara Vaughan-Hughes, is now head of food across the whole estate, and is infusing everything with her passion for sustainable food. She works with produce grown on the estate and with other local producers across Devon to create delicious homemade food for the Green Table Café, the White Hart and the brand new Green Table Deli, situated down at the Cider Press shops. The ethos is very much about creating a new food culture at Dartington that connects with the estate and with the abundance of ethically produced food and drink in Devon.

Dartington also boasts its very own cinema, plus plenty of places to stay, from the Courtyard B&B to Camp Dartington and the brand new River Dart Cabin. The

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calendar of events offers lots of short courses from floristry to adventures in the woods and on the river Dart, plus a vibrant live music and arts programme.

Gardens entry is free for Dartington Members, Carers (with a full paying adult or child), guests staying in the Courtyard Rooms, camping guests, students, Dartington tenants and Dartington Trust Volunteers.

Some of the garden highlights include an ancient yew tree which is least 1500 years old, a 150 year old Lucombe Oak, a row of Sweet Chestnuts which are believed to be over 400 years old, a huge Swamp Cypress tree which is affectionately named ‘Swampy’, an incredible magnolia collection and the Henry Moore ‘Reclining Figure’ sculpture which was designed specifically for Dartington, among many other delights to be discovered. It is also the only example of Beatrix Farrand’s work in the UK, as she was brought over by the Elmhirsts from America to redesign the courtyard in the 1930s.

Garden Admission prices: Adult: (16+): £7 Local Adult: £5 (residents within any TQ postcode) Child: £2 (5-15) Family: £15 (2 adults and up to six children) Local Family: £10 (TQ) Under-fives: FREE There is also a range of concessions – see website Tickets are valid all day so visitors can come and go in the garden and the rest of the estate. Tickets can be booked online. dartington.org June/July 2021 | 43

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Gardening

Mr Fox’s Garden In this issue Mr Fox launches his unique idea for a ‘Torbay Trebuchet’ designed to hurl friendly flower bombs across Torbay and further afield.

‘M

arch winds and April showers bring forth May way there’s been a recent spate of people flattening their flowers’, as the saying goes. Well, it didn’t gardens for a second parking space. I just can’t stop happen this year - frost in April, no rain for six weeks and wondering about the poor bees, they’re far too classy to go then the April showers came in May. Don’t you just love looking round the bins for discarded lollipop sticks like the British weather? It’ll probably be 30 degrees Celsius the wasps do… by the time you read this. Seriously though, I love it. I Don’t worry though, I’ve got a great idea; it’s a new found myself smiling out the window watching the rain project, called The Torbay Trebuchet! A trebuchet is after the drought; it really was a happy feeling, you can’t a medieval catapult. I’m just going to drift off topic buy feelings like that; one could say it’s priceless. here; bear with me for a moment. In the 13th century, It does sadden me to think of all them ‘indoor people’ Scotland made an attempt to establish its independence thinking they’re on a winner because they don’t have to from England (sounds familiar; you can watch the film get their hands dirty - not sharing this feeling of delight ‘Braveheart’ if you want to get the full facts on this event). with us gardeners in the rain that follows a dry spell.

King Edward I (aka Longshanks), invaded Scotland; the The weather’s crazy but Scottish weren’t happy, don’t throw the calendar morale was low, some I just can’t stop wondering about the out of the window just of its strongest castles poor bees, they’re far too classy to go yet. Toby Buckland’s surrendered easily to the looking round the bins for discarded Powderham Castle English but Stirling Castle lollipop sticks like the wasps do…

Garden Festival is back wasn’t budging. King (hopefully) on June 11th. I’m not sure what it’s going Edward ordered five master carpenters with an additional to be like with all the social distancing measures in place, 50 labourers to construct the largest trebuchet ever built; it but the last time the event was held it was fantastic. If took three months to complete and needed 30 wagons to you are reading this early enough (before the 5 & 6th transport it. of June), my friend Jenny at Higher Orchard Cottage in So The Torbay Trebuchet will work on a similar Marldon is taking part in The National Garden Scheme. principle except instead of hurling rocks at our If you’ve never heard of the NGS then do look it up - it’s opposition’s castles we’re going to be hurling seed-bombs a fantastic idea. Gardeners across the country invite into fields and wasteland - wildfower meadows will be the public to their gardens for one weekend a year and growing everywhere in our wake. Firstly we’ll tow it together raise a good amount of money for charity - it around the Devonian towns and villages; all the village really is a great scheme. folk can turn out with their seed balls and we’ll send Our gardens are going wild again - flowers everywhere. them flying… We’ll have some really fun days! Then we’ll Strangely, even the nettles are looking good this year - it slowly make our way up to Scotland and plant them some has been a long and grim winter though. Round our wildflower meadows as a way of reconciliation and to

“

We are James and Catherine (Mr Fox’s Garden). We provide a garden maintenance and landscaping service around the Bay but the main part of our business is making plant supports, garden art and sculptures - and it’s all made right here on the English Riviera. We’re proud to say that this year we have pieces on permanent display at RHS Rosemoor and Buckfast Abbey.

mrfoxsgarden.com englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

Mr Fox June/July 2021 | 45

At Abbeyfield people are at the heart Supported Housing for Independent People of everything we do

Supported Housing for Independent People

ABBEYFIELD SOUTH WEST SOCIETY

Sheltered Housing for Independent People over 55

ABBEYFIELD SOUTH WEST SOCIETY staff, consisting of a Manager, cooks and a cleane oth Abbeyfield houses are situated in lovely areas, oasting their own beautiful grounds. Park House in who all work together to ensure residents are happy staff, consisting of a Manager, cooks and a cleaner Both Abbeyfield are situated in lovelypark areas, and content. aignton is situated directlyhouses opposite a beautiful boasting their own beautiful grounds. Park House in who all work together to ensure residents are happy nd is a five minute walk from the beach. Sanders and content. are various activities, events and entertainmen Paignton is situated directly opposite a beautiful park There ourt in St Marychurch, Torquay, hastheabeach. wonderful and is a five minute walk from Sanders that take place throughout the year which the There are various activities, events and entertainment Court in St Marychurch, Torquay, has a is wonderful that take place throughout the wish. year which the arge private courtyard and the local precinct just a residents can join in if they large private courtyard and the local precinct is just a residents can join in if they wish. ve minute walk away, with all the amenities you would five minute walk away, with all the amenities you would Traditional home cooked meals are provided in the Traditional home cooked meals are provided in the xpect. Both sites offer public transport services expect.

Bothgood sites offer good public transport services dining room every day and breakfast dining room every day and breakfast provisions areprovisions are by,and so it iseasy nice and easyand to goexplore. and explore. lose by, so it isclose nice to go provided for residents to have in their rooms. provided for residents to have in their rooms.

At our Abbeyfield houses residents find friendship The weekly charge covers all utilities and food, so t our Abbeyfield houses residents find friendship Allsupport bills arelosing included, except telephone line &all calls and without their independence The charge utilities there weekly are no bills to worry covers about, other than a BTand food, so nd support and without dignity. losing their independence telephone lineno which the residents, there are billsis necessary to worryforabout, other than a BT nd dignity. The rooms are unfurnished with en-suite facilities and telephone 24hr emergency pendant to work, so all concerns line which is necessary for the residents a kitchenette area. The houses have a communal

he rooms arelaundry, unfurnished withlounge en-suite and dining room, and facilities beautiful garden. kitchenette Each area.

The houses have a communal house has a small and friendly committed aundry, dining room, lounge and beautiful garden.

about running a house are taken away.

24hr emergency pendant to work, so all concern Each room has its own 24hr emergency call system about running for residents peaceaofhouse mind. are taken away.

Each room has its own 24hr emergency call system for residents peacetelephone of mind. ach house has a To small and friendly committed arrange a visit or for more information

the Manager at: Park House, Paignton 01803 557732 or a forvisit Sanders Court, Torquay 01803 316164. arrange or for more information telephone Or visit our website: www.abbeyfield.com

To the Manager at: Park House, Paignton 01803 557732 or for Sanders Court, Torquay 01803 316164.

Or visit our website: www.abbeyfield.com Registered Society No: 23413R under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014

Registered Society No: 23413R under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014

a cleaner are happy

Gardening atone for past deeds.

It’s just an idea at the moment, but as they say, everything begins as an idea. I’m looking for a team – who’s in? We just need a fundraising kickstarter page, some building materials, five carpenters, fifty labourers and some rope. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you want to get involved.

Enjoy the Summer!

Mr Fox

A lazy lawn?

If the trebuchet sounds a bit too large-scale for you then try your own ‘lazy lawn’ - a great way to save work and encourage wildlife. If you have a lot of grass and don’t need it all regularly cropped, simply go easy with the mower, and this year you could be listening to the buzz of bees and chirping of grasshoppers rather than the humming of mowers. The thriving insect habitat will also encourage birds to your garden, which is always a good thing. If you don’t want to let the whole area go wild then maybe just mow around the edge of the lawn and leave a central ‘meadow’ or if you’re lucky enough to have a large lawn then mowing a pathway will add an extra element to your garden. It’s a real win-win route to relaxation in your outdoor space. 

rtainment which the

Seasonal jobs for June - Start taking cuttings of this year’s young growth from plants such as tender perennials. Also, look for rooted shoots on woody-based perennials like penstemon and anthemis, which can be detached and potted up.

- Lavender should be lightly pruned after flowering to remove dead stems and shoot tips.

Finish planting up containers of summer flowers and water regularly during dry spells (if there are any).

ded in the visions are ms.

- Focus watering on any border plants that are newly planted, and ensure fruiting plants have an even supply to give a good crop.

d food, so than a BT residents, concerns

- Sow biennial plants now to flower next year, like foxglove, forget-me-not, sweet rocket and wallflower.

- If the wet weather continues don’t be tempted to dig over the soil too much as new plants’ tender root growth can rot if you allow too much water in.

all system

- Once the weather dries out remember to put out fresh water for wildlife in shallow dishes, bowls or birdbaths, and refresh regularly.

e 2

- Over the winter you may well have disconnected your water butt or other rainfall management equipment, don’t forget to reconnect those pipes as the dryer weather arrives. englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

June/July 2021 | 47

BAY BUSINESSES

VOTE FOR SUCCESS Tourism in our coastal resort is at a critical juncture. A forthcoming industry vote will greatly influence the Bay’s success as a premier destination. Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company explains.

T

Following serious budget challenges by Torbay Council he English Riviera’s tourism and hospitality industry to fund discretionary services in 2016 the first English is a very valuable and a pivotal part of our economy, Riviera Business Improvement District (ERBID1) came providing thousands of livelihoods. Many of us are either into being. Working on behalf of Torbay’s 1200+ eligible directly or indirectly dependent on the £500 million tourism and hospitality businesses, the ERBID’s primary generated by the 4.7 million visitors we attract each year. purpose is to manage and promote the official English There has been plenty in the news recently about a Riviera brand and lead on a proactive programme of predicted surge in staycations as a result of continued professionally coordinated, restrictions on international travel. destination-marketing activities to Holidaying at home is enjoying Carolyn Custerson attract visitors all year round. a surge and the English Riviera Operated by the English is expecting a very busy summer, Riviera BID Company with a with hearts won now having the Board of Directors (local business potential to create regular returning representatives who work on visitors long into the future. a voluntary basis) ERBID1 As a coastal destination we are in has been driven by the private an enviable position to fight back sector, with the belief that local from COVID-19 (during which businesses, working together, most tourism and hospitality will have a more influential voice businesses had their turnover in shaping and reaching the full halved) and to make important gains in the staycation market.

The great outdoors is one of potential of our destination.

In excess of £500,000 per The great outdoors is one of our our key strengths and the annum is currently collected key strengths and the spectacular spectacular natural beauty in ERBID Levy to pay for natural beauty of the English of the English Riviera a wide range of marketing Riviera offers visitors an enviable offers visitors an enviable activities.

Th ese include national choice of coastal walking and choice of coastal walking advertising, management of the water-based activities. Our revised and water-based activities English Riviera website that branding and positioning English attracts over one million visits and hosts the resort’s Riviera – Naturally Inspiring, we know is attracting new central What’s On Calendar plus the operation of the visitors to the resort.

English Riviera Visitor Information Centre. This year’s So, who is responsible for promoting the resort?

“

48 | June/July 2021

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Business ERBID national advertising campaign Escape the Everyday has reached 9 million people.

But the tourism company, despite continuing to grow the value of Torbay’s visitor economy and generating £75 for local businesses for every £1 invested, now faces a major T-junction. BIDs only last 5 years and ERBID1 will automatically end on December 31st. Therefore, the company must stage a renewal ballot. If the majority of eligible businesses vote YES in the renewal ballot which runs from May 27th to June 24th, the company’s work will continue for a further 5 years. (2022-2027).

In the wake of COVID-19 there has probably never been a more important time for ERBID2. Over £300 million has been lost in turnover since March 2020. COVID-19 decimated our tourism economy and we need to keep promoting professionally for many years to help our businesses and the resort recover. Throughout COVID the ERBID Company has been pivotal in providing key communications for businesses and lobbying government for support. Momentum is now critical.

The ERBID2 Business Plan (on which eligible businesses will vote) includes a number of exciting changes following consultation undertaken since February. Tourism businesses want to see ERBID2

invest significantly more in new events in the shoulder months, which we will do and we have adjusted the budget for the next 5 years accordingly. We are looking closely at introducing a new Springtime Walking Festival, expanding Seafood FEAST and developing new Christmas events.

We will continue to focus heavily on digital marketing and social media as well as investing in amazing photography and videography to share with businesses to help promote the resort and inspire visitors. Much more emphasis will be put on eco-tourism and promoting all the amazing outdoor lifestyle activities that have become increasingly popular through lockdown.

I believe that continuing to work in partnership and promoting the multi-award-winning English Riviera brand globally, is the path we must continue to take. Collaboration makes us stronger and will help us jointly to secure our position as the UK’s Premier Seaside Resort. A lot is now at stake. A ‘YES’ vote would mean a further £3 million for marketing the resort.

Certainly, competition will continue to be fierce as global competition resumes and the English Riviera needs to be at the forefront of national marketing excellence to capitalise on the current popularity of seaside resorts. 

Working together to shape our destination for the future 5 YEAR FIXED LEVY • BIG EVENTS • INNOVATIVE ADVERTISING • EXTENDING THE SEASON

Visit the website for the Full Detailed Business Plan

www.englishrivierabid.co.uk

englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

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