Moor Links Dec-Jan 2015 by Links Magazines

Moor Links Yelverton • Buckland Monachorum • Walkhampton • Horrabridge • Clearbrook Meavy • Milton Combe • Crapstone • Bere Peninsula • Dousland Princetown • Sampford Spiney • Sheepstor • Postbridge

Dec / Jan 2016

The Dartmoor Hill Pony Christmas Church Services Wine Choices for the Festive Season

Issue 19 £1.50 where sold

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CONTENTS

A time to reflect and enjoy... Whilst I write this introduction in early November, I was surprised but perhaps not shocked, to hear my first ‘Christmas’ song on the radio. Each year our festive period seems to start increasingly early with everyone trying to cash in and extend, what is for most, the busiest time in our calendar year. It is at this time that we should all perhaps try to stop, reflect and offer some of our own time and expertise to those who need it most. Rosemary recently spent some time with the Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support centre in Plymouth to find out more about how the centre operates and how we can all in some way or other do our bit to help. It is also a time to get out and about and enjoy all the festivities on offer – most of which are included in our What’s On section. However, it is bursting at the seams and there are a few we’ve been unable to include so do check all the websites of our various local visitor attractions, hotels and restaurants to get the full picture or follow us on Twitter or join our Facebook page. One such local attraction that has something for every member of the family is Buckland Abbey Garden & Estate. This year they are remembering their Elizabethan Christmas with many costumed activities, a wonderful floral display by members of NAFAS, as well as Father Christmas in all his original glory. All of us here at Olijam Communications Ltd have had a wonderful year, creating our lovely magazines (Moor Links and Tavy Links), meeting so many interesting people and being able to join in with the success of our extremely vibrant area and the myriad of activities, clubs and organisations that are available. A big thank you to our advertisers for their continued support over the years making the magazines possible. We are greatly looking forward to Weyear are very known for our magazines - Tavyyou Links and planned and next – sowell keep us posted with all that have Moor Links, but we also provide additional marketing support we’ll share it with others. services to many local businesses.

WE DON’T JUST PUBLISH MAGAZINES!

CONTENTS 4. Village News

Catching up with some of our local organisations and their plans for next year.

10. Superfast Broadband

Plans from a new provider ‘Airband’ for everyone to benefit from Superfast broadband speeds.

18. Charity Focus

Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support centre – Rosemary visits and finds out more.

24. Gardening

Sue Fisher shares her tips for getting the best from our winter gardens and planning ahead for the spring.

26. Farming Diary

Mat Cole reflects on a hard year on his Dartmoor farm.

30. What’s On

Bursting at the seams with activities for the festive period and beyond.

39. Church Services

Service listings for our local churches

42. Christmas at Buckland Abbey A time of Elizabethan joy!

46. Walking with Angus and Sennen

A stunning walk taking in vistas of Burrator Reservoir and Sheeps Tor.

48. Feature

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! From a full-blown magazine to a brochure,

The Dartmoor Hill Ponies and their vital role on Dartmoor.

Lizzie, Tim and all the team.

56. History

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Dr Ann Pulsford delves into the fascinating lives of local poet Mary Colling and Anna Bray

design&print WE’D HELP…in the February/ TheContact deadline forLIKE any TO inclusions Lizzie or Tim for more information 01822 853110 www.olijam.co.uk March issue is Fridaylizzie@olijam.co.uk 8th January We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our many contributors for so kindly giving us their time and expertise, in helping keep our magazine so interesting to all. THE OLIJAM TEAM: Editor: Lizzie Watt Publisher: Tim Randell Deputy Editor: Rosemary Best Publishing Assistant: Liz Whitwell Writers: Rosemary Best, Nichola Williams Design: Terri Reeves, Julian Rees Advertising: Jane Daniel

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ALL Advertising enquiries

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Contact Tim or Jane on 07450 161 929 / 01822 615627 to disuss your advertising enquiries. Email: advertising@moorlinks.co.uk or visit our website: www.moorlinks.co.uk to view our rate card. Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the editorial team. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Moor Links or Olijam Communications Ltd accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. All data contained in advertisements are subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and are accepted by us in good faith at the time of going to press. Reproduction of editorial is strictly prohibited without prior permission from the publisher. All rights reserved copyright © 2015

VILLAGE NEWS

The Ramblers Big Pathwatch The Ramblers has recently launched the Big Pathwatch, the nation’s biggest ever footpath survey, following new research that reveals path problems in England, including the South West, are on the rise. The Ramblers are asking as many people as possible in the South West to take part in the Big Pathwatch, which will for the first time build both a national and regional picture of the state of the path network. It will also investigate the impact these problems are having on people’s ability to use their local paths and the effect this has on their walking experience. By getting the complete picture, the Big Pathwatch will help the Ramblers develop long term strategies to keep paths clear for the future, boosting tourism, the economy and the nation’s physical and mental wellbeing. The Big Pathwatch is the first time we’ll be asking everyone to help us walk every right of way in England and Wales and tell us what they find so we can protect and celebrate our amazing 140,000 mile path network - one of the nation’s biggest

assets. The easiest way to take part is to download the free Big Pathwatch app. The app allows people to share their experiences as they walk every right of way within a specific grid square of an OS Map. They’ll be asked to note any problems they encounter, as well as share the positive features, the beautiful views or interesting landscapes they see. The results of the Big Pathwatch will allow the Ramblers to create a comprehensive report on the state of the path network, which will be used to help inform a range of solutions to ensure its upkeep. Where possible, Ramblers’ path maintenance teams will be heading out to fix problems found through the survey, clearing brambles and other overgrown vegetation, improving path surfaces and fixing bridges and gates. Those who don’t have a smartphone can still get involved by downloading materials from the Ramblers website. To find out more, or to take part in the Big Pathwatch, visit www.Ramblers. org.uk/bigpathwatch.

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

MUSIC & ART

A Good Year for Tavy Tars Save Our Community Orchards Tavy Tars are a group of nine singers and musicians based in

The Tars have also done many local events and if you would

like to book them, contact details are on their website as are to keep traditional such as pruning, Can sparewhose just a few hours toisbreathe Bereyou Ferrers, repertoire based on sea shanties and skills, links to videos of themwww.beau-yelverton.co.uk performing. grafting and pressing, going in the life back songs ofinto the Tamar sea. Valley’s Community Tamar Valley, along with the traditional Orchards? Mike Grimshaw The Tars performed at John Lewis in OxfordWassailing Street for event; it’s what helps to give Many of the orchards throughout the last year’s Christmas shoppers, Plymouth Pirate weekend, the Valley its sense of identity”. Tamar Valley are suffering from aFestival, lack of Plymouth Seafood Falmouth International Shanty is needed at a number of community maintenance care,Seasalt but withshop a few Festival plus and various openings.Help Another orchards, extra pairs of hands, they could once highlight was, for the second year running, singing onincluding the Stoke Climsland, Luckett, Harrowbarrow, Buckland again become thriving centres of the Scillonian to Scilly and back as an RNLI fundraiser-and yes it Monachorum and Denham Farm. community. Some of the jobs throughout was rolly! the seasons may include harvesting, If you would To celebrate their 10th anniversary, Tars recorded a newlike CDto help, please contact pressing, pruning, grafting or strimming; the Tamar Valley AONB team – last autumn that was released this spring. Called ‘Take Me whatever help you can offer would be 01822 835030 in Your Lifeboat’ after the title track of the album, sales from greatly appreciated. volunteering@tamarvalley.org.uk the CD have already raised £530 for the RNLI and a cheque Charlotte Dancer, Information & RNLI’s Plymouth lifeboat. The was recently presented on the Communications Officer Tamar of the Tars, through the album is available fromfor anythemember Valley AONB, says; “We are really keen Tar’s website www.tavytars.co.uk, or iTunes and Amazon downloads.

Rainwater Harvesting at Yelverton Memorial Walkstock Hall 2015

Dress with Beau this Festive Season X

Photo courtesy of Barry Perrins (RNLI)

Saturday February Big Lottery Fund who had also provided Saturday 19th 28th September saw a sponsorship. celebration of the launch of the piece (now with an excellent drummer), Longfaces (originally Having posted the date of Walkstock (28th February) on Rainwater Harvesting system at Yelverton named The Cashiers) - this band does classic rock/pop covers Facebook, we had 42 people saying they were ‘joining’ Yelverton Hall and Field is run by local War Memorial Hall. South Hams to really get the party going. Last but not least, Threes a within the first few hours and some were even discussing volunteers and we are always looking Councillor Bill Hitchins, representing Crowd- 3 young lads whose witty covers of unlikely pop babysitters! Bearing in mind this was 4 months before the for energetic people with time to spare, Dartmoor National Parks Authority who songs keep any crowd thoroughly entertained. event, it shows how keen people are on Walkstock. If you like to help so if you would the local Opening Hours Mon-Sat 10am-5pm made a grant to help fund the installation, haven’t heard about it, let us explain: It is acommunity fundraisingeither by serving the Venue:onWalkhampton Memorial Evening Hall Appointmtents Available congratulated the Trust Committee on but is for the adults event for the Walkhampton Preschool, committee or with our fund-raising Date: February 28th 7.30-11.30 O’Meara House their hoped that others (and achievement older teens.) and Local bands play to an overwhelmingly activities please call meTickets: on 01822 £8 available from Pat Woodgate (details by emailing Leg O’Mutton • Yelverton would follow their lead. Tony Samuel, appreciative crowd. For most band members854521. it is the poshpat@live.com) Other details:Devon Bring your own drink. PL20 6AA our Treasurer who gigging instigated theThe project, highlight of their year. bands are Fallen CedarsFancy dress theme (optional) come as anything beginning 01822 853900 thanked the National for is a very talented five Carole Thompson with original materialPark andAuthority covers, this with the letter ‘T’. Beauboutique1@aol.com their help and support as well as the

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VILLAGE NEWS

U3A Moors Edge Celebrating our First Birthday was a very special day, not only have we increased our membership since last September but we have welcomed 11 more members in the last month. A Certificate for an ‘Award for Achievement’ from the Woolwell Business Trust was presented to our Chairperson, Evaline Roberts, at a Gala Evening Event in September, for the varied opportunities our U3A now offers to retired people within the area. We have also been supported with an Award of a Grant (Community Fund) from the South Hams District Council in recognition of our efforts to maintain and encourage the formation of Groups offering a varied selection of activities and interests to those who join.

Established in 1979 providing high quality childcare and education for 2-4 year olds. Learning through play in a stimulating indoor and outdoor environment.

Situated on the North side of Plymouth with Dartmoor National Park on our doorstep we have been able to offer a further choice for people who find either Plymouth or Tavistock U3A more difficult to attend. Our Groups Leaders have excelled in the time and commitment they have given and this was reflected in the Presentations they gave at our Party. History, Literature, French, Gardens, Walking, Social Events and the very talented group “Singing for Fun”, who all enjoyed sharing their moments. Events included a Tour around a Submarine, a visit to the Met Office in Exeter, being part of the audience for Deal or No Deal, Victorian Xmas Market and several coffee/lunch venues.

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A great deal more is scheduled for the year ahead and even more Groups are about to start: Photography for Fun, Basic Computing, Scrabble, Bridge for Beginners, as well as more trips to enjoy. If you would like to join us or find out more, we meet at 2.30pm on the second Thursday of each month at the Woolwell Centre, Dark Lane, Woolwell, Plymouth PL6 7TR . www.moors edge u3a.com.

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Speakers have entertained us with a variety of subjects, Bell Ringing, The Workings of a Magistrates Court, The Oldest Bakery on the Barbican, Training Dogs who work with the disabled, Holidaying on the Orient Express and the important work undertaken by the Shekinah Mission.

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VILLAGE NEWS

Delicious Drakes Trail

Lions and tigers, colourful clowns, strong men, ring masters and a stripy Big Top lined up side by side at the National Trust’s Buckland Abbey to tackle the Delicious Drake’s Trail back in October. The fancy dress fun-run stopped at a dozen pubs hotels and cafés along the route giving participants the opportunity to sample a stomach stretching variety of locally produced food and drink. Participants crossed the finish line at the Moorland Garden Hotel where a food festival with stalls, demonstrations and side-show games kept hundreds of spectators busy all afternoon. Helen Grimsmo, from Yelverton said: “Great food, great course. I have lived in this area for years and saw parts today I have never known about.”

Devon and Cornwall which provides free week long respite breaks for disadvantaged children from across the UK. Event founder, Kate Treleaven, said: “Thank you to everyone who entered in to the Delicious Drake’s Trail with such wonderful spirit and to the event volunteers and local businesses who supported the event, without whom it simply couldn’t happen.” The Delicious Drake’s Trail sister event in South Devon, the Delicious Dart Trail, will take place on Saturday 5th March next year. Email hello@deliciousdarttrail.co.uk for details. Photos courtesy of Guy Harrop

The event raised over £3000 for CHICKS, a charity based in

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VILLAGE NEWS

A Walker’s Guide to a Beautiful Dartmoor Valley

Photos courtesy of Peter Swain

Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (Tavistock) are proud to announce the 2016 publication of: Walkham – A Walker’s Guide to a Beautiful Dartmoor Valley by Peter Swaine The A4 size book contains over 200 photographs and detailed route descriptions of walks exploring every part of the Walkham and its catchment area. From the source high up on the north moor to its confluence with the Tavy at Double Waters, the Walkham passes through an astonishing variety

of landscape. From bleak blanket bog, through wild open moorland, past impressive rocky tors and dense ancient woodland, the walks reveal the landscape and history of this wonderful valley. The remains of Neolithic burial chambers, stone rows and circles, Bronze Age settlements, peat extraction, quarrying and mining are all contained within the 52 square kilometres of the Walkham Valley, and this book shows where to find them.

Peter has lived in or near the Walkham valley for most of his life and is one of the most respected members of the Search and Rescue team. He has been a member of the team for over 20 years, he is the deputy team leader and he has also previously served as the chairman. All profits will be donated to the rescue team. Members of the public are invited to reserve their copies of the first edition of “Walkham” (limited to 500). To reserve a copy, visit www.dsrt-tavistock.org.uk and complete the form or email book@dsrttavistock.org.uk . The cost of the book will be £20 + p&p, but no payment is required at this time.

Notes from Buckland Monachorum Parish Council Airskating

Feasibility Study

Neighbourhood Plan

Ever fancied ‘Airskating’? Well, now you can! A new piece of play equipment has been installed by the Parish Council at the Buckland Monachorum Play Park and is already attracting attention from youngsters too old to enjoy the existing kit. The money was provided by the National Lottery ‘Awards for All’ program and the equipment was supplied and fitted by Green Scheme, a local business. Parish Councillors rolled their sleeves up and fitted new, safer rubber matting on an existing piece of equipment whilst the new kit was being installed.

The Parish Council is now mid-way through a feasibility study on whether a renewable energy project within the Parish would be practicable. Five sites have been ‘pre-registered’ to ensure that if the project does go ahead, the current ‘feed-in’ tariff will apply (as Government proposals to lower future feed-in tariffs are anticipated). If you’d like to know more - just ask your local Parish Councillor.

Finally, the Neighbourhood Plan website is nearing completion. By the time the next edition of Moor Links hits the streets, it should be ‘up and running’. But in the mean time, if you have any questions about the Neighbourhood Plan - just ask (r_s_cheadle@hotmail.com).

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

VILLAGE NEWS

Rotary Club Round-Up

Photos courtesy of CHICKS

It’s been an amazingly busy year for Tavistock and Yelverton Rotary Clubs.

Looking forward, the two clubs will be extremely busy all through Christmas:

Following the success of Tavistock Club’s Charity Golf Day (we raised over £3000 for TASS and Young Devon Carers), we had great fun at Goosie Fair. Our traditional ‘Guess the weight of the Goose’ competition and our book and bric-a-brac stalls raised over £850 for charity.

Tony and Gillian Parker, Presidents of Tavistock and Yelverton respectively, have been able to persuade Santa to spend a great deal of time in our area! He will be visiting homes in Tavistock and the surrounding villages all through December and will be at Bedford Square on December 4, 11 and 18.

Perhaps our most significant achievement was in September, when the Tavistock Club hosted a major conference on Dementia at The Wharf. Over 100 delegates shared their experiences and discussed ways in which we can support people living with dementia and their carers. This was hailed as a major success and a credit to Rotary and the Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance.

In a special flying visit to the Whitchurch Inn, Santa will also switch on the Christmas lights and will be leading a Christmas Carol sing-song on Friday December 5th. Rotary will also be out in force with their annual collections at Yelverton and Roborough on December 19th and in Tavistock Tesco on December 12th.

The Tavistock Heritage Festival was an even greater success in October, than the inaugural festival in 2014. Featuring guided walks, musical entertainment, arts events, talks and lectures and historic re-enactments, Tavistock Heritage Festival is now set to be a fixture in Tavistock’s calendar for many years to come.

Tavistock Club’s main Christmas event, however, will be to help CHICKS children’s Charity in organising and sponsoring this year’s Santa Sprint in Tavistock on December 5th. Hundreds of people, young and old – but all dressed as Santa Claus in their free Santa outfits - will run, jog, walk, hop, skip or dance around a 1.5 mile course around Tavistock, marshalled by volunteers from 42 Commando. Starting at Bedford Square, it’s not a race but a fun run - so everyone’s a winner! Full details and entry forms are available at www.chicks.org.uk/santasprint2015.

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VILLAGE NEWS

Superfast Broadband for Devon Earlier this year it was announced that Airband had been selected to deliver the superfast broadband programme for Dartmoor and Exmoor. Airband specialises in innovative, overground wireless technology to provide high speed broadband solutions for remote rural areas and has already delivered a superfast broadband programme in the Welsh hills. So what does this mean for residents and businesses, and most importantly when will we all have access to faster broadband? ‘Connecting Devon and Somerset’ (CDS) is responsible for delivering superfast broadband infrastructure to the areas of Devon and Somerset that are not currently covered by commercial investment. It is a local authority led partnership including Somerset, Devon, North Somerset, Torbay, Plymouth, and Bath and North East Somerset. The CDS programme aims to bring superfast broadband to 90% of premises in its area which means that most residents and businesses in Devon and Somerset will have broadband speeds of over 24Mbps by the end of 2016 and all premises within the programme area will have a broadband speed of at least 2Mbps. Phase 1 of the wider rollout for Devon and Somerset is

being delivered by BT using a fibre connection, which means properties within the rollout area will be able to access a superfast service via a telephone land line. This will mostly be carried out using FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet - broadband is delivered from the telephone exchange through fibre optic cables to new green cabinets next to the existing roadside cabinets and then connected to premises with copper cables). In some areas it may be necessary to use FTTP (Fibre to the Premises - fibre optic cables connect a property directly to the telephone exchange). Within West Devon 33 cabinets are already live and a further 27 are expected to go live by April 2016. It is estimated that phase 1 of the project will deliver superfast broadband access to 60% of premises within Dartmoor. The ‘Connecting Dartmoor and Exmoor’ superfast broadband project delivered by Airband forms part of phase 2 of the programme and will involve a public sector investment of £4.6m. This stage of the project is expected to result in 96% of homes and businesses in the two National Parks having access to superfast broadband by the end of 2017, although most people

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VILLAGE NEWS

be used and wherever possible new masts will be located with buildings and other structures. Airband currently uses church towers in Worcestershire to broadcast signals and has already been contacting some Dartmoor parishes to understand if a mast could be sympathetically incorporated into any of the local church buildings.

Airband are exploring the possibility of using local churches to sympathetically incorporate their masts

will probably have the opportunity to benefit from superfast coverage in 2016. Airband specialises in delivering superfast broadband to remote areas with geographically challenging terrain. Their wireless solution uses state of the art data radio technology with radios capable of up to 100Mbps and works by transmitting a signal from a mast to a small device (smaller than a satellite dish) attached to the end-user’s building. A cable then takes the connection into the building allowing connection to the internet in the same way as via fibre or an ADSL connection. Airband has been surveying Dartmoor to find suitable sites for the masts to ensure as many people as possible receive coverage; the masts will mostly be timber poles less than 10m tall and approximately 30 to 40 masts will be required in and around the Dartmoor National Park area. Existing commercial masts will

Once the superfast broadband infrastructure is in place, it will then be the responsibility of the end-user to have the wireless receiver device installed on their property and at this stage other broadband providers will be able to quote for individual customers’ broadband business. The current BT landline telephone service will not be affected. However consumers will also have the option of using voice over the internet ( VoIP) and saving line rental charges by moving their phone to run over the internet as well as their broadband. Broadband speed and cost will depend on which bundle and which provider you select. Wireless technology can be deployed relatively quickly and with less expense and disruption than fibre optic cables so it is possible that the Dartmoor phase 2 section will complete before the end of phase 1. However as the process is constantly evolving it is difficult to tell yet which properties will fall into the estimated 4% which will not be covered by phase 2 wireless technology; these properties will be considered in the next stage of the programme which it is hoped will be completed by 2020. If you would like more information about the ‘Connecting Dartmoor and Exmoor’ programme then visit the Dartmoor National Park website at www.dartmoor.gov.uk/aboutus/ connecting-dartmoor. If you would like to know more about Dartmoor National Park’s involvement in Connecting Dartmoor and Exmoor, then contact Jo Rumble, Communities Officer on 01626 831024. You can also register on the Airband website to receive regular updates at www.airband.com

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Anne-Marie Cooper Owner and Manager of Penmoor Nursery

I have had the privilege of knowing Anne-Marie for quite some time. Our children have grown up alongside each other, both in the classroom and on the sports pitch, so it was an enjoyable assignment to find out more about the recent successful Ofsted inspection of her business, Penmoor Nursery.

when Anne-Marie enquired she was told it was closing. On a whim she decided to put in an offer and ended up buying the name and stock. The revised Penmoor opened its doors to 11 children in September 2006; there are now 72 children on the register and

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Her father worked in the NatWest bank so as a child her family moved around the country, and settled in Tavistock when she was 11. After leaving Tavistock Secondary school she studied for an NNEB in child care, and then began working in South Trelawney Language and Assessment Unit as a Nursery Nurse. She loved the work and developed a lifelong interest for language. She later became manager at a local day care Nursery, gaining experience and confidence. By the time she turned 40 she had married and had three children. Her youngest, Jamie, was due to start at their local Nursery, Penmoor but

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Anne-Marie has boundless energy and positivity. For her, the glass is always way past half full. She sees exciting adventures where others see fretful trials.

is inclusive, stimulating and inviting. Children are extremely happy and thrive…” make for affirmative reading of which she is rightly proud. To have such an excellent result should come as no surprise because the proof of Penmoor’s success can be seen in its young patrons who feel valued, make exceptional progress and ultimately keep coming back.

ten members of staff. Anne-Marie took the opportunity to utilise her skills and develop the nursery school with the ethos and old fashioned values she prizes. She has fostered a reputation for warmth and kindness in addition to providing stimulating activities and imaginative play. Over the years, she has expanded the hours to include breakfast clubs and afternoons with flexible collection times to suit working parents. Despite working full time Anne-Marie decided to take a BA in Early Years and Child Development in order to better understand the needs of the children in her care. She also bought a mini bus to transport children to locations outside the setting such as Plymouth museum, Burrator Arboretum and Tavistock library. She employs a full time dedicated forest school teacher and has links with Buckland Abbey to facilitate the forest school sessions. There are plans to extend the forest school hours as Anne-Marie believes the chance to learn more about our local environment and participate in outdoor www.moorlinks.co.uk

activities such as den building and insect hunting is an integral part of childhood. Their recent Ofsted inspection is resoundingly positive with a remarkable “outstanding” in all areas. It is a testament to Anne-Marie’s vision and hard work although she is quick to praise the excellent staff and parental support she receives. Phrases such as “Children are highly motivated; the environment

Anne-Marie has boundless energy and positivity. For her, the glass is always way past half full. She sees exciting adventures where others see fretful trials. A smile perpetually lights up her face and she never turns down an invitation to life. She cannot wait for her fifties as her forties have brought so much “fun” – I would add that they have also brought fun and so much more, for many lucky children in Yelverton. Nichola Williams

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Pat Carey A loveable rogue with a passion for wildlife

Pat Carey is either an infamous countryside champion akin to Robin Hood, a colourful character with a twinkle in his eye and a tale to spin, or a cunning rogue and occasional outlaw. Either way he’s a bona-fide menace to rabbits! Born and raised in Tavistock, he was asked at an early age what he wanted to be when he grew up and declared with audacity that either a bank robber or a poacher would do. Asked to leave school at 15 he found he could make a little money through catching and selling game, and soon became known as Pat the Poacher – a name which has stuck and of which he is proud. He lived with Romany gypsies for two years, honing his countryside knowledge of animal behaviour and mimicry before returning to Devon where his reputation preceded him. The Tavistock Woodlands Estate offered him a months’ probation to catch the rabbits which had decimated new

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Pat has an uncanny skill at animal imitation and uses this to his advantage to get close to wild animals.

saplings planted in the Tamar valley. After just a week Pat and his ferrets had caught enough rabbits to prove his worth and he remained in the post as Warrener and Deerstalker for 34 years, protecting 2500 acres of forestry and 2000 acres of farmland. Pat has an uncanny skill at animal imitation and uses this to his advantage to get close to wild animals. He has made a DVD illustrating his skills, with beautiful, intimate footage of deer, hares and foxes in the wild. He is selling his DVD with proceeds going to the Macmillan Trust. He has given many lively talks and demonstrations of his bush craft knowledge and poachers past to rapt groups all interested to hear more about his adventures. One such tale involves a dark night “lamping” rabbits when his torch caught the shiny buttons of a policeman. Running away he climbed a tree only to be undone by his faithful dog sitting at the bottom. Enthusiasm for his stories has led Pat to begin writing an autobiography. Tentatively entitled “We were the Tavy boys” it will tell of a lost way of life, living off the land and of the scrapes and skirmishes in his youth which Pat describes as “wild and free”.

LO D CA VD L

Lately Pat has put his skills to good use hosting “poachers suppers”, fundraising for the Macmillan Trust twice a year. His wife Sue was diagnosed with throat cancer five years ago, and after the wonderful support that they received from the Macmillan Trust, Pat felt he wanted to give something back. Each February he takes over the Fox and Hounds pub near Sourton. It is an invitation only affair and those lucky enough to attend are treated to delights such as Pat’s venison chilli, cooked with beer and his rolled pork belly, stuffed with

squirrel, rabbit and pheasant. In September he organises a grand game BBQ near Lamerton where he serves whole hot smoked salmon and venison sausages. This year over 100 attended his BBQ and he and his wife Sue raised over £300. He is very grateful to Paul and Jenny Howell who generously provide the meat at cost price. Undoubtedly as a disreputable scoundrel in his youth, I imagine he caused his parents, teachers and the constabulary many a sleepless night, but now aged 68 he seems to have mellowed and his mischievous tales of a bygone age entertained me handsomely one nostalgic afternoon. I hope he finishes his book; it will make for terrific reading. Nichola Williams

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Jane Hamlyn Oh No She Isn’t! Oh Yes She Is! She is Jane Hamlyn, an 84 year-old grand dame of pantomime, theatre and singing groups. On leaving school, Jane became an art trainee at the Crown film company; a government organisation specialising in the making of documentaries. She spent four happy years there until its closure and told me that she was thrilled to be appointed assistant to Lotte Reineger for her last two years. Lotte was a pioneer of silhouette cartoon film making; a process which involved much cutting of shapes and sophisticated lighting to achieve animation. Jane’s theatre credentials are impressive. From small beginnings in a production of ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ when she was given one line, she progressed to becoming a member of ‘The Thespians’ drama company. In 1960 her talent was spotted and she was coached by the professionals who told her that she had ‘stage presence’. She was given lead roles and during the company’s involvement in nationwide 1-Act festivals, Jane was named ‘best actress’ three times. Jane married but, tragically, was widowed and with small children to support, she took a job as a school secretary. It was during this time that she thought she might have an aptitude for teaching and completed a teacher training course as a mature student. Later, as a result of a conversation she overheard, she turned up at a meeting about enrolment on a London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art course, little realising that the people there had been hand-picked as students. She so impressed the selectors with her talent that she had no difficulty in gaining a place on the course. She qualified as an Honours graduate to teach speech and drama, and taught English to middle school children and thence to Amesbury boys’ prep school, where she spent many happy years teaching and directing drama productions. Her reputation quickly spread when she moved to Bere Ferrers and she immediately took on the mantle of director for the village pantomime together with Music Hall events. ‘Cinderella’ (in January), will be her fourth production. She will deal with all the usual anxieties that surround pantos: whether it will actually happen (Oh yes it will!), who will help with all the back-stage work, costumes, www.moorlinks.co.uk

advertising, casting the roles, rehearsals and ticket sales. Jane’s experience and delight in working with children means that she is always keen to recruit youngsters for her shows, so Cinderella is sure to have lots of little helpers. All this on top of being a member of five singing groups and a local am dram society! Jane has a fine voice and she and her fellow choristers perform at venues such as Cotehele House. ‘I sometimes think I should slow down’, she told me. There seems little chance of that. ‘Cinderella’ will be performed in Bere Ferrers Church Hall on 21st, 22nd and 23rd January 2015 with two performances on 23rd January. Details and tickets available from Margaret Willmott on 01822 840380. Lizzie Spiers

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CHARITY FOCUS

Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support More than 600 thousand people have risked their lives to cross the Mediterranean and Aegean this year in the hope of starting a new life in the safety of Europe. The scale of the current crisis is immense but ever since the 1951 Refugee Convention following World War II, when millions of people were displaced, national organisations such as British Red Cross, The Refugee Council and Refugee Action have been trying to help asylum seekers who have escaped from horrific conditions. Many local charities have also risen up in response to the needs of refugees and asylum seekers in their community. One such charity is Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support (DCRS) based at the Masiandae Centre in Plymouth. Samuel Moinina Kallon founded DCRS in 1999 with his wife Isetta, when refugees in the neighbourhood started knocking on their door asking for advice. Sam and his wife had fled to the UK

The plight of refugees is a huge dilemma as thousands of families continue to flee from war and persecution in Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Eritrea and other countries.

and been granted asylum after escaping from Sierra Leone when civil war erupted in the 1990s, so they understood all the issues facing asylum seekers. In 2000 Plymouth became a Home Office dispersal centre for asylum seekers so a group of committed local supporters helped Sam to formalise DCRS as a charity and secured premises for a centre at Wesley Methodist Church. Sadly Sam died of cancer in 2002 but his legacy continued and DCRS now has a centre in Whimple Street where it aims â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;to provide a culturally sensitive practical response to the needs of the refugee communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. An asylum seeker is someone who has fled persecution in their homeland, made themselves known to the authorities in another country and has a legal right to stay in that country while they apply for asylum. A refugee is someone who has been granted asylum and is allowed to stay in another country having proved it is not safe for them to return home.

Exceptional Residential Care Set in the peaceful and tranquil surroundings of traditional Devonshire life, Redmount is a quaint family Residential care home offering a variety of care services to our local and surrounding communities. Redmount can offer long term permanent accommodation and short term respite stays as well as day care services to people living at home who may require a little extra support and companionship. Here at Redmount we pride ourselves on providing exceptional standards of individually tailored packages of care for all our Residents ensuring that not only do people enjoy a safe and supportive environment but also a continuation of their preferred lifestyles and quality of life. We welcome people to pop in at anytime for an informal chat and tour of our home or contact us on the details below to request a free brochure. Competitive rates and discounts for couples are available.

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There are an estimated 126,000 refugees living in the UK, which represents 0.19% of the total population. Asylum seekers in the UK are interviewed by the Home Office and then dispersed to a number of towns where they are given free but basic accommodation and £36.62 per week to cover food. Six to eight people share a house and often the occupants come from different cultural backgrounds. If their initial claim is refused and they appeal, then the same weekly amount is issued on a card, which they can use at a restricted number of shops. Plymouth receives 20 to 30 new asylum seekers each month and the Home Office aims to process their application within 6 months, but this is not always the case. When asylum seekers first arrive in Plymouth, the Red Cross organises an orientation programme to show them where to find the police station, the post office, shops etc and then they bring them to the DCRS centre as it is the locally recognised support network for asylum seekers and a place of safety to come for help and advice or just coffee and a chat. One of the most important aspects of DCRS’s work is one-toone interviews with clients to support them in submitting a successful asylum application and help them find appropriate evidence to substantiate their case. Approximately 60% of first applications in the UK fail, very often because there is insufficient evidence to prove the case rather than because the reason for claiming asylum is invalid. DCRS has two registered members of staff who provide OISC (Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner) level 1 immigration legal advice to asylum seekers and it can also provide help with housing, financial, health, education and cultural issues. The centre offers English conversation classes with ESOL trained staff, as refugees are not entitled to formal ESOL courses until they have been in the country for six months. Asylum seekers can access internet facilities at the centre to keep in touch with relatives in their home country as

well as research evidence to support their asylum application. DCRS also organises sports and fitness activities, craft and music workshops and local events such as Bonfire Night in Calstock, or environmental work parties at Lopwell Dam. In addition the centre runs a food and clothing programme to support refugees, so that at times of special need a Project Support Worker can authorise the collection of an emergency food parcel. DCRS works closely with a number of other charities in Plymouth such as British Red Cross, Start(Students & Refugees Together) and Plymouth Hope Festival who all endeavour to improve the lives of refugees living in Plymouth. DCRS does not receive any government funding and depends entirely upon the generosity of the community with donations of cash, food and clothing in order to continue its work. Rosemary Best

If you are able to make a cash or food donation (clothing is not presently required) or are interested in being more involved in the work of DCRS then please contact: DCRS, 7 Whimple Street, Plymouth, PL1 2DH; Tel 01752 265952; Email dcrsc@btopenworld.com; Website: dcrs-plymouth.org (Drop-in service open Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-1pm)

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BOOK REVIEW

Sweet Caress by William Boyd William Boyd (A Good Man in Africa, Any Human Heart, Restless) has always been a great storyteller and is firmly established as one of the best of his generation. In this exquisite tale of Miss Amory Clay, compellingly written in the first person, he presents us with much more than a great story. On the one hand it is the story of a life or, as the subtitle has it, the “Many Lives of Amory Clay” as daughter, lover, wife and mother and as society, art and war photographer. On the other it is a tale of the Twentieth Century, its wars, upheavals and social transformation. Amory is everywhere, from the brothels of Berlin between the wars to a British Union of Fascists march in the East End, from the unreality of wartime New York to the grim reality of the conflict in Vietnam. And throughout we are treated to snapshots of Amory’s professional and personal life with samples of her photography. What makes this novel such an achievement is its effortless movement from one momentous historical event to the next without seeming in any way contrived. This is a moving and entirely convincing portrayal of a woman’s adventure in a quite extraordinary century. Hardback: £18.99; Publisher: Bloomsbury

Book Review by Simon Church, Book Stop, Tavistock

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

PANIC ATTACKS With 1 in 10 of us suffering from Panic Attacks, Dr Harriet Doyle explains some of the symptoms to look out for and how we can help those who suffer.

At least 1 in 10 of us experience panic attacks, and it is highly likely that you will be aware of someone who suffers from them. Panic attacks can affect anyone at any age. They may occur for a short period of your life or be a problem for many years.

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The physical symptoms of a panic attack are driven by adrenaline released by your body in a fight or flight response to a situation you find alarming or frightening. Your body is actually trying to help you by breathing faster to take in more oxygen, and speeding up your heart rate to make sure the oxygen reaches all the essential parts of your body. Your muscles become tense in readiness to react appropriately. However for panic attack sufferers, these natural responses can become extreme making them feel numb, sweaty and dizzy. They might feel chest pain or become aware of palpitations and feel confused. These symptoms can be overwhelming and quite terrifying.

The best way to deal with panic attacks is to avoid them! Understanding what might trigger them and learning to recognise the early warning signs will help. However if you miss the clues there are a few things that can help settle you down 1.

Regain control of your breathing by doing the opposite of what your body is trying to do. Instead of sucking breathing, try blowing out for as long as possible

During an attack your brain believes you are in danger, so look around and tell yourself that you are safe and that nothing here is going to harm you

Distract yourself by focusing your attention on something else, such as watching TV or listening to music. Have a panic busting playlist on standby!

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Dental GENERAL & COSMETIC

Exercise can help to channel the adrenaline into a positive outlet.

Life events such as menopause, puberty, divorce, work stress, exams and moving home, may trigger panic attacks. In addition to the above immediate treatment there are many therapies that might help long term management and exploring your emotions, thinking pattens, diet and exercise will all be constructive. Seeing someone struggling with an attack can be really frightening and we can feel helpless, especially if it is a child. We want to help them to see they are safe and that there is no need to be afraid because we can see that the fear is irrational. But no matter how irrational the fear may seem to us, it is a very real threat to the sufferer. If you find yourself in this situation, stay calm and use gentle tones and plenty or reassurance Point out they are safe and encourage them to look around

and describe non threatening aspects of their environment. Remind them to take slow steady breaths focusing on blowing out. Attacks usually last for between 5 and 20 minutes so let them know too that it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last much longer and that it might already be beginning to subside. It is important to let your doctor know if the attacks last longer than 20 mins, or if they become more frequent or leave you feeling unwell.

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GARDENING

Winter gardening The winter months are ideal for planting pretty much anything that’s hardy and deciduous: trees, shrubs, roses, fruit, perennials and hedging. Soil conditions are ideal for rooting, particularly in the early part of the season whilst still warm and usually nicely moist. Plants can start establishing a good root system without struggling to make top growth at the same time, and will be settled in ready to burst into growth next spring. Another benefit of winter planting is that once leaves have fallen, plants are dormant and you’ll be able to buy bare rooted (also known as field grown) stock which is lifted from nursery fields and despatched immediately. These are usually excellent value for money: cheaper than container grown

plants and in a wider range of sizes too. When it comes to evergreens and anything that is borderline-hardy, though, aim to plant in early to mid-spring, as these plants are more susceptible to frosts and cold winds. Thorough soil preparation is the secret to long-term success with garden plants. Don’t just dig a hole, chuck in a handful of fertilizer and stick the plant in – this is something akin to building a house without any foundations! Digging to at least one spades’ depth, clearing weeds, adding organic matter over the whole planting area, not only sets up your plants for

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years to come but is hugely beneficial to garden wildlife as well-managed soil teems with life. 2015 is the International Year of Soils, aiming to raise awareness of the importance of soils and their sustainable management: the topic has even made it on to Radio 4’s The Archers. Every gardener can do their bit to care for the soil: dig in lots of organic matter when preparing ground and mulch bare soil with more of the

same – ideally home-made garden compost – to keep plants nourished and the soil in good heart. But do avoid working the ground if conditions are wet and the soil is so claggy it sticks to your boots, as you’ll damage the soil structure. To protect bare ground from winter rains, cover veg beds with cardboard, landscaping fabric, or sow a ‘green manure’ cover crop.

SEASONAL JOBS • Trim deciduous hedges well in advance of bird nesting season. • Overgrown deciduous shrubs can be rejuvenated by cutting out a third of the oldest growth near to the ground. Repeat over the next two winters to gradually replace all the mature stems with new growth. • Aerate lawns where ground is compacted or liable to waterlogging. • Put out a regular supply of fresh water for birds as well as food. • Order seed catalogues for a leisurely spot of armchair gardening.

Sue Fisher is a garden designer and writer based on the Bere Peninsula. Tel 01822 841895. Email: suefisher@talktalk.net Website: www.suefishergardens.co.uk

Plants looking good this season Hellebores: Christmas and Lenten roses (1) bloom from mid-winter to spring, ideal for shady spots.

Golden evergreens: bright leaves cheer up dull winter days. Good varieties include Libertia ‘Gold Lace’ (2); Euonymus ‘Emerald n’Gold’; Lonicera ‘Baggessen’s Gold’; Choisya ‘Sundance’ (3).

Christmas box (Sarcococca): compact little evergreen with strongly scented flowers.

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FARMING DIARY

A hard year comes to an end at Greenwell Farm on Dartmoor It always amazes me how different the seasons are on the farm and it seems that sometimes our routine changes every week, as we prepare and deal with the next hurdle in the life cycle of a farm. The winter months however are slightly different, with the shorter daylight hours and all the cattle being in the barns and the yards - the routine of feeding and tending to the cattle at close quarters makes a nice change. At other times of the year we tend to move from one big job to the next not really having time to appreciate the animals. In spring the cows can’t wait to get out, during summer they want to be as far away from us as possible and once autumn turns to winter they know that the best place to be is in the yard with plenty of feed and a dry shed to shelter in. We are now clear of TB. All farms have to read two full clear or negative tests, sixty days apart, to be classified as ‘clear’ and it was a massive relief for us when the last cow went through. It has been a horrible year for us with a great deal of stress on both the cattle and ourselves but after ten month and four full herd tests later we are finally ‘clear’. That is until our next test in six months time …. This means we can now sell our animals to other farms and achieve their full value. It has not been an easy time and as a business is has had a major affect on our cash flow for the year. When you have a TB breakout it is safe to sell cattle direct to slaughter but not to sell cattle on the open market. It is possible to sell to other farms with TB under a license, but usually at a lower price. As a Dartmoor hill farm with thin soils and high rain fall we are not able to ‘finish’ all our cattle and so traditionally rely on selling younger cattle to other farmers for breeding or for them to grow on and ‘finish’. This clear test now frees our hand and gives us the ability to put

some cash in the bank at last. We will be selling prime lambs through the winter usually until early February. These lambs are subject to the market and prices so far this year have been disappointing. As I mentioned last time, it has not been a good year and so far we are about £10 per lamb down on last year. Let’s hope that prices improve as the season goes on. Lamb is a very seasonal product and traditionally the price will rise from Christmas until Easter when the new season lamb hits the market. Fingers crossed the price comes up and balances things out. The ewes should now be well in lamb and the rams removed to have a well-earned rest. In January we will scan all the ewes to find out how many each one is carrying. We do this to enable us to manage the ewe’s diet to give the lambs and the ewes the best chance of survival. Any ewes with triplets need almost as much good feed as they can eat, those with twins will also need looking after well. The ones carrying singles will have limited rations to stop their one lamb getting too big. Over Christmas we will shut down as much as possible to spend time with the family, but even on Christmas day the animals will still need feeding and checking. We will do all we can to reduce the work load to tick over, however it is always lovely to go into the yards around the cattle and sheep when all around is quiet. An afternoon stroll around the yard often helps the turkey dinner go down too….! From all at Greenwell, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy and prosperous New Year! Mat Cole Greenwell Farm

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NATURALIST

The Holly and the Ivy Two plants that have had seasonal associations over the centuries. One is well known and loved, the other is certainly less appreciated and possibly even feared! Some common questions answered: Why does our holly tree never have berries? It is probably a male tree. Unlike many plants that we are familiar with, the two sexes are segregated and it is only the female flowers on a female specimen that will have the facility to fruit. Look for the bunches of small white flowers that appear on both trees in May/June. A bit of elementary biology, and maybe a magnifying glass will allow you to distinguish between those bearing stamens and those with a central stigma and ovary!Why do some trees lose their berries quickly while others keep them well into the new year? They are a favourite food supply for many birds and mammals, especially once the windfall apples have been consumed. Members of the thrush family(including blackbirds) are the culprits/beneficiaries, depending upon your point of view! I have yet to hear a convincing explanation of why some trees are ‘picked upon’ first, though it may relate to territorial behaviour or the migration of more birds (including redwings and fieldfares) from further north and east that swell our local population.

Are there two kinds of ivy? Ivy goes through two distinct phases during its growth. It spreads out across the ground in all directions at first and has tough but flexible horizontal stems with the true ivy-leaf pattern to its foliage. Once it makes contact with a vertical surface (a tree or wall) its life is transformed. Climbing upwards it hangs on by sucker-like growths from the stem but eventually becomes woody and self-supporting. By now the leaves have a more regular outline and it is here that it will flower in October and November. Does it kill the tree? Theoretically no. If the tree falls, the ivy is back to its starting point too! However, if the tree is old and weak, the top growth of the ivy can overshadow the crown of the tree, depriving it of light. For valued specimen trees judicious management of ivy will certainly be required. Natural systems though, do naturally regenerate and achieve a balance www.moorlinks.co.uk

between species, unlike the ‘us or them’ approach of much gardening practice!

‘So are there any good points about ivy? By this time in the season the upper wooden branches carry spherical shaped bunches of green fruits which gradually ripen to deep purple/black fat fruits. Just 4-6 weeks ago ivy was still in flower in our garden, balls of pale green/yellow flowers with prominent stamens. It is the latest native shrub to flower, a welcome end-of-season source of nectar for many insects. There was an audible hum of bees on sunny afternoons and even a few late maturing butterflies put in an appearance. Ivy even has its own bee whose life cycle is timed to achieve adulthood as the flowers reach their peak. It only arrived in the UK in 2001 but is apparently thriving (I admit that I have yet to see one!) so look up Colletes hedera if you see an unusual bee of slightly waspish appearance! The fruits will last well into the new year. I have seen blackbirds, fieldfares and jays, amongst others feeding on them. Having consumed the windfall apples, nuts, holly and all the other red hedgerow fruits, these large-billed omnivores need some fresh fruit to supplement their diet. We should also consider the cover provided by the network of leaves and branches. They are just as effective as those of the host tree in providing protection from predators, and plenty of nesting sites too. The close-fitting stems add extra nooks and crannies to the tree trunk and are a haven for all sorts of invertebrates and even act as a climbing frame for small mammals. Holly and Ivy share a long history in our midwinter folk-lore. Of the two, the ecological role of ivy has probably been undervalued. Perhaps this could be a theme for a New-Year’s resolution? Pete Mayston 29

WHAT’S ON

REGULAR

DECEMBER

1st Tuesday Monthly

PRINCETOWN HISTORY CLUB

The Club meets at 7.30pm at Princetown Community Centre unless otherwise indicated 2nd Tuesday Monthly

GREEN DRINKS

For anyone interested in the environment, come and have a natter each month. 7.30pm to 9.30pm, Union Inn, King Street, Tavistock. Just ask for us at the bar Every Wednesday

PLOUGH AND SHARE CREDIT UNION - PRINCETOWN BRANCH Savers can obtain loans at 2% interest or less. Just drop in to find out more information. 11am - 1pm, Princetown Community Centre. Every Thursday Until 17 December

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING – DRAKE CIRCUS

In true Victorian spirit, each Thursday night Drake Circus has invited local choirs to sing in the centre and bring delight to customers. Primary Schools will perform between 5.45pm and 6.15pm, Secondary Schools between 6.30pm and 7pm and Adult Groups 7.15pm – 7.45pm. Shopping until 9pm

To 6 December

PLYMOUTH CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND FOOD MARKET

A wide selection of independent businesses and food producers providing everything from traditional Christmas puddings to unique gift ideas will be situated along Armada Way in the heart of the city centre. Traditional log cabin style stalls decorated with highly visible Christmas lights and traditional garlands will create a magical Christmas experience that will attract visitors from all over the region. We have teamed up with local trade fayre organiser, and founder of ‘All things Vintage & Lovely’, Miss Ivy Events to offer unique and quirky gifts, not often found on the high-street. Taste of the West is also partnering the event so the market will offer you the fresh tastes, smells and sights of local food producers. Whether it’s something to fuel your late night shopping sprees, to add to the Christmas dinner or for a special stocking filler there is lots of choose from. 1-3 December

HE NAMED ME MALALA (PG) – PLYMOUTH ARTS CENTRE Fresh from the London Film Festival this is an inspiring portrait of an incredibly brave and resilient young woman who carries a message of hope for all citizens of the world. The extraordinary subject of this compelling documentary Malala

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was prophetically named after a famous Afghan poetess and warrior and learned about the power of education from a young age, penning an anonymous blog for the BBC about life under Taliban when she was just twelve. 01752 206114 www. plymouthartscentre.org 1 – 20 December

CHRISTMAS AT BUCKLAND ABBEY

Discover traditions old and new as we step back in time inside the Abbey and uncover a festive surprise in our Great Barn. 11am – 4pm, normal grounds charges apply www.nationaltrust.org.uk, 01822 853607 Daily until 31 December (closed Christmas and Boxing Day)

‘CHRISTMAS GARLAND & ‘SNOWFLAKES’ AT COTEHELE

The Christmas Garland and music by a variety of local choirs in the Hall. Also an exhibition filled with unique gifts for Christmas 11am-4pm, winter admission charges Adults £6, members and under 18s free. 27-31 December free entry to neighbours with a PL postcode (bring a utility bill), 01579 351356 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ cotehele Daily until Christmas Eve

SANTA’S MAGICAL GINGERBREAD GROTTO – DRAKE CIRCUS

This year Santa’s elves have built him a fantastic gingerbread themed grotto in Drake Circus where little ones can meet Father Christmas and share their wish lists with him. Each visit costs £5 with 50p going to charity. All children, regardless of good behaviour, will be rewarded with a special memento from Santa and parents will have the chance to buy a photograph of their kids enjoying themselves in the grotto. Book online at: www.drakecircus.com 28 November – 6 December

Only £10 per hour or £7.50 for residents of Princetown

Call Wendy Stones on 01822-890345 or Ian Morgan on 07812-023642 30

HORRABRIDGE NATIVITY FESTIVAL

Horrabridge Nativity Festival returns at editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON St John’s Church. Village groups show off their skill and ingenuity as they each create a ‘traditional’ Nativity Scene. Entry is by donation and refreshments are available. The exhibition is open 10.30am – 4.30pm each day, and until 7pm on Fridays (12noon start on Sundays). The Festival ends with a carol service followed by mulled wine at 4.30pm on 6 December 1, 8 &15 December

THE GREAT TUDOR CHRISTMAS COOK OFF – BUCKLAND ABBEY

See the Tudor cooks hard at work as they prepare a festive feast inside the abbey kitchen. 11.30am – 3.30pm, normal grounds charges apply, www.nationaltrust.org.uk, 01822 853607 2, 9 &16 December

WINTER WEDNESDAY LATES – BUCKLAND ABBEY

Get into the Christmas spirit in the relaxing surroundings of Buckland Abbey. Indulge on a mince pie, do a spot of Christmas

shopping and discover the 12 days of Christmas in our great barn. Free entry, bookable meals available from the Ox Yard Restaurant. 6-9pm, please call 01822 853607 for details 3 December

WREATH MAKING BUCKLAND PRE SCHOOL

With Mulled Wine & Mince Pies at the village Hall Buckland Monachorum, all funds raised going to the Buckland Monachorum Preschool Charity. 7.30pm, contact Shirley Fraser on 01822 854870, 07716 767877, bucklandmonachorumpreschool@outlook. com 3 December

C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP, PRINCETOWN

Come along and join us for a friendly chat in the Prince of Wales, Princetown. Our guest speaker will be Tom Soby telling us all about the ‘Myths and Legends of Dartmoor’. Commences at 12.30pm

4 – 10 December

UNDER MILK WOOD (15) – PLYMOUTH ARTS CENTRE

Dir. Kevin Allen, UK, 2015, 88 mins. Cast. Rhys Ifans, Charlotte Church, Julian Lewis Jones, Steffan Rhodri. A lyrical and lovely film version of Under Milk Wood. 01752 206114 www.plymouthartscentre.org 4 to 6 December

OCEAN STUDIOS’ CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION

Ocean Studios, situated at Royal William Yard, is hosting a Christmas exhibition featuring work from the artists based within the Studios as well as a wide selection of original gifts. The exhibition will feature painting, photography, print, textiles and glass work. Visit the artists in their studios and watch them work as they open up their studios from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 December.

JOY It’s time to book your Christmas Party. Murder Mystery 4th December £39.95 per person Race Night 5th, 12th, 18th December £32.95 per person Casino Night 11th, 19th December £32.95 per person Festive Lunches & Dinners Throughout December Lunch: £21.50 per person Dinner: £29.95 per person

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WHAT’S ON 5 December

www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01822 853607

11 December

CHRISTMAS CONCERT – MOUNT KELLY CHORAL SOCIETY

7 December

BOTTLE AUCTION – HORRABRIDGE CAVALIERS

Featuring John Rutter’s Gloria with excerpts from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. 7.30pm at Tavistock Methodist Church www.kellychoralsociety.com 5 December

MISTLETOE FAIR - BRENTOR VILLAGE HALL

Original handcrafted high quality gifts & produce are available at our friendly annual event. Coffees, lunches, teas, 10am - 3pm, free admission www.brentorvillage.org 5 December

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP – HOTEL ENDSLEIGH

A festive class with Amanda Randell MDPF, creating a door wreath from the estate’s foliages. 10am-3pm, £40 including a two course lunch. 01822 870000 / mail@hotelendsleigh.com 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 December

AUDIENCE WITH OLDE FATHER CHRISTMAS – BUCKLAND ABBEY

Rediscover the Christmas magic as Olde Father Christmas arrives in the Great Hall. 12-3pm, normal admission plus £4 per child (includes gift) www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01822 853607

TALK – BURRATOR

Pre-historic Wonders of the Burrator Area’ by Dr Tom Greeves. 7pm arrival for refreshments, 7.30pm8.30pm talk. £3 per person. Please book your place in advance on 01822 855700 or heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk

Horrabridge Cavaliers’ annual fundraising auction. A fun evening raising money for local causes, and your chance to pick up a bottled bargain before Christmas. Starts 7.30pm in the London Inn, Horrabridge 11, 12, 15, 16, 17 December

BROOKLYN (TBC) – PLYMOUTH ARTS CENTRE

7 December

WREATH MAKING AND AFTERNOON TEA

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop and Festive Afternoon Tea with local florist Flowers Going Green at Moorland Garden Hotel. 2pm. £34.00 per person  To book please contact the Events Team on 01822 852245 or events@moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk

Based on the well-loved novel by Colm Tóibín, and adapted for screen by Nick Hornby, the film follows Ellis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan) as she leaves 1950s Ireland for brighter work prospects in New York. 01752 206114 www.plymouthartscentre.org 12 December

CHRISTMAS CREATURE DECORATION – PLYMOUTH CITY MUSEUM

9 December

PRINCETOWN COFFEE MORNING

Come along to the Princetown Community Centre and enjoy a convivial chat over a cuppa. Tea or Coffee with homemade cakes for only £2.00, you also get a free raffle ticket. 9.30-11am 10 December

ADULT EVENING FELT SESSION – BURRATOR

Make Christmas decorations based on the creatures in our natural history collection. Have a fun festive time using glitter galore and take home a lovely addition for your Christmas tree. 10.30am-12.00pm- Booking is advised through the Museum and Art Gallery Welcome Desk or by calling 01752 304774. £2 per child. Accompanying adults go free.

7pm Join Claire Packer from the Wet Felting Company and get creative! Book a place on 07938387838

6 December

6 & 13 December

FESTIVE FAMILY FELT – BUCKLAND ABBEY

Get into the Christmas spirit with Claire Packer’s festive edition of her popular drop-in family felt workshops. 12-4pm, normal admission plus £3 per person www.moorlinks.co.uk

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FLABELOS

GIFT VOUCHER

Join the Family Wildlife Watch group at Burrator Reservoir with SWLT. £1 per person. – 10.30am-12.30pm Hot chocolate & biscuits provided! Please contact 01822 855700 or heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk

G I F T PA C K

WOODLAND CHRISTMAS CRAFTS - BURRATOR

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WHAT’S ON 12 December

TAVISTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Lamb Butchery demonstrations throughout the morning from Lydford Farm Shop, plus all our regular producers. 9am – 1pm, Bedford Square www.tavistock farmersmarket.com 12, 13, 19 & 24 December

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SPECIAL - MORWELLHAM

Visit Santa in his underground grotto, listen to a Christmas story, dress up in Victorian costume, make Christmas Crafts and indulge with mince pies. The all-inclusive special Christmas price for adults and children includes a free child’s present soft drink, mulled wine and mince pies. Children & Adults £8.95 (Members £4.95) to include train ride. For further details go to www.morwellhamquay.org 13 December

PRACTICAL CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER DAY – BURRATOR 10.30am-3.30pm. Practical conservation volunteer day at Burrator Reservoir with SWLT. Hot drinks and biscuits provided! Please contact 01822 855700 or heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk 14-19 December

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL YELVERTON

4.30pm. (December 20th 2pm - 4pm) All welcome to visit.

19 December

17 December

Fresh, local produce direct from the farmer, Bedford Square 9am – 1pm www.tavistockfarmersmarket.com

C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP CHRISTMAS LUNCH AND PARTY

Grand Draw starts at 11.45am, followed by a 3 course traditional Christmas Lunch at 1pm with complimentary coffee and mince pies. After which Geoff Lakeman and ‘Speakeasy’ will entertain us with their inimitable brand of music and humour for the remainder of the afternoon. BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL - bookings will be taken at the meeting on 3 December or ring Mike on 01822-890799 19 December

ANNUAL XMAS TREE WALK – BURRATOR Walk and chance to cut down your own Christmas tree. Places are limited – please book on 01566771930 19 - 23 December

AT HOME WITH MOTHER AND FATHER CHRISTMAS

Come and meet Mother and Father Christmas in their grotto at Cotehele. 1-3.30pm, winter admission charges Adults £6, members and under 18s free + £3 (includes a gift). 27-31 December free entry to neighbours with a PL postcode (bring a utility bill), 01579 351356 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

TAVISTOCK FARMERS MARKET

19 December

LET’S WASSAIL - COTEHELE

Get out your fancy dress, dig out your loud instruments and come and help us scare away the evil spirits in the Cotehele Orchards. 11.30am-12noon, free entry, 01579 351356 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele 19 December

A CHRISTMAS CAROL – MEAVY AMATEUR DRAMATICS

A traditional version of Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ in Victorian dress at St Peter’s Church, Meavy. Doors open at 6pm and the production will start at 6.30pm. Proceeds to St Peter’s Church, tickets Adult £5, Child £2 19 & 20 December

FESTIVE NATUREMAKE – BUCKLAND ABBEY

Make a Christmas gift or a tree decoration using unusual natural objects with the team from Naturemake. 12-4pm, normal admission plus activity charge (£3-£8). www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01822 853607

Rock Methodist Church will be holding their annual Tree Festival from 10.30am -

Come and relax in a cosy and warm environment with friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere

Homemade Cakes ¤ Range of Teas and Coffees Great breakfasts ¤ Fabulous lunches ¤ Fully licensed

Email: abbie@drakescafe.co.uk • www.drakescafe.co.uk Tel: 01822 617697 • Halfway House, Grenofen, PL19 9ER 34

Cyclists and Walkers welcomed as we are alongside the Drakes Trail/Route 27 Family friendly Dogs welcomed Free Wiﬁ OPEN 8am - 5pm, 7 days

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON 20 December

CAROL SERVICE YELVERTON

Rock Methodist Church, 10.30am All welcome. 23 December

TAVISTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Fresh, local produce direct from the farmer, just in time for Christmas! Bedford Square, Tavistock, 9am – 1pm www.tavistockfarmersmarket.com 23 December

DOGWORTHY’S MAGIC CHRISTMAS SHOW

Jacolly Puppet Theatre bring their show full of the joys of Christmas ~ especially for children aged 3-9 but fun for grown-ups too. See What’s On Extra for full details. 23 December

CAROL SERVICE – SHEEPSTOR

Traditional candlelit carol service at

St Leonard’s Church Sheepstor at 4pm followed by festive refreshments . All will be made very welcome in this moorland church 25 December

COMMUNION SERVICE SHEEPSTOR

onto the world stage and possibly the most beautiful, fanciful, funny poem to unrequited love and to Paris ever made. Come and fall in love with Amelie and Paris all over again 01752 206114 www.plymouthartscentre.org

Communion service on Christmas morning at 11am. All will be made very welcome in this moorland church

JANUARY

29 December, 2 January

4, 11, 18, & 25 January

45 YEARS (12) – PLYMOUTH ARTS CENTRE Another chance to see this popular film which sold out in October. It is without doubt one of the best British films of the year. 01752 206114 www.plymouthartscentre.org 30 December, 2 January

AMELIE (15) – PLYMOUTH ARTS CENTRE

TAVIJIVE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL DANCE SESSIONS

Dancing to Rock ‘n’ Roll from the 1950s or music of that style. Great fun, terrific exercise and relaxed atmosphere, informal tuition available. Entry £4 (every 10th session FREE), Tavistock Town Hall, 7.30 – 10pm Malcolm White 01822 615894 or 07443539490

Keep the holiday spirit going by coming to see the last of our LOVE season films. The film that catapulted Audrey Tautou

YELVERTON CINEMA Autumn Film Programme HELD AT YELVERTON CHURCH HALL Saturday Evenings Cafe Cinema

Children’s Cinema

Dec 12th

Woman in Gold (12A)

Dec12th

Minions (U)

Jan 16th

Unbroken (15)

Feb 6th

45 Years (15)

Jan 16th

Inside Out (U)

Feb 6th

Pan (PG)

BYO and refreshments available £4 on the door

Afternoon screening - Doors open 3.45 Film starts 4pm

Morning Screening - Doors open 10.45 Film starts 11.15

Afternoon screening - Doors open 3.45 Film starts 4pm

Suggested donation £2

We’ve made some changes to the scheduling for the children’s cinema. Morning and afternoon screenings will alternate. Please see schedule.

For film details check our website www.yelvertoncinema.co.uk www.moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON 5 January

PRINCETOWN HISTORY CLUB

Dartmoor Prison: From May to December :George Blake, 7.30 pm at Princetown Community Centre 6 January

BOTANICAL ART TALK & EXHIBITION

An introduction to botanical art and a little history of how it developed, also a great opportunity to find out if my forthcoming classes are of interest to you (Wednesdays at 6.30 pm, at Nicholls Hall, Lydford, from 13 January). The talk starts at 8 pm at Nicholls Hall, Lydford, tickets £5. For further details contact Trisha Webb, 01837 810269 trishawebb818@gmail.com www.trishawebb.weebly.com 7 January

C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP, PRINCETOWN

Come along for a friendly chat in the Prince

of Wales, Princetown. Our Guest Speaker will be Stephen Fryer relating tales of the Steam Railway in Tavistock and Princetown, commences at 12.30pm

Chapman, Dartmoor finest chronicler of rural life – photographing since 1975. At Clearbrook Village Hall, 7.30pm, tickets £4 in advance only, from 01822 854411 17 January

9 January

TAVISTOCK FARMERS MARKET

TALK - BURRATOR

Make buying local your New Year’s resolution! Fresh, local produce direct from the farmer, Bedford Square, 9am – 1pm www.tavistock farmersmarket.com

‘Cists, cairns, huts and rows – Some pre-historic wonders of the Burrator area’. Guided walk lead by Dr Tom Greeves. £3 per person. 10am – 1pm. Please book your place in advance on 01822 855700 or heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk

11 - 24 January

19 January

JANUARY WELLNESS CAMPAIGN – DRAKE CIRCUS Drake Circus will be hosting a community wellness campaign, with everything from free workout sessions to health and cookery advice. Please see www. drakecirucs.com for details 15 January PHOTOGRAPHY, FILM & TALK By acclaimed photographer Chris

PRINCETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH MEETING

Commences at 8pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales, Princetown. All residents of the Dartmoor Forest Parish Council area are welcome to attend. Did you know that some Insurance Companies offer a discount on your Home Insurance to members of Neighbourhood Watch Schemes? 21 January

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VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT DAY

Volunteering at Cotehele can be a very rewarding experience and a way to learn new skills and make friends. Join us for a chat, meet the team, have some tea and cake and find out how we might work together in 2016. 11am-3pm, 01579 351356 www. nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele 21, 22 & 23 January

CINDERELLA – PANTOMIME - BERE FERRERS

Come and see Cinders go the Ball and get her Prince. Oh yes she will! At Bere Ferrers Church Hall with two performances on 23rd. Details and tickets available from Margaret Willmott on 01822 840380 23 January

FRUIT TREE GRAFTING TAVISTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Join Adrian of Endsleigh Gardens Nursery for expert demonstrations in fruit tree editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON grafting. Plant stock available to purchase along with our usual fresh, local produce direct from the farmer. Bedford Square, Tavistock 9am – 1pm www.tavistock farmersmarket.com 27 – 30 January

THE HAPPY PRINCE BUCKLAND MONACHORUM DRAMA GROUP

A touching musical based on the wellloved story by Oscar Wilde. The Happy Prince, desperate to help the poor, asks a swallow to distribute his gold and jewels to them. A few cast vacancies still to be filled. I would be delighted to hear from you if you fancy being a town clerk or a humble citizen....? Sheila Phillips. Tel. 01752 775195 Box office. 01822 855336 www.bucklandmonachorum.org.uk 31 January

4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 February

THE LEGEND OF MEAVY HOLLOW – MEAVY AMATEUR DRAMATICS MAD’s Pantomime, always an entertaining evening. Tickets available from the Royal Oak Inn, Meavy, Children £5, Adults £6 - £8 13 February

FABULOUS FEBRUARY TRAIL - LYDFORD GORGE Children’s Trail around our Orchard. 10am - 3pm. Dogs on leads are welcome. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 20 February

AUCTION OF PLEDGES - CHILDREN’S HOSPICE SOUTH WEST

CHSW are celebrating their 25th anniversary in 2016 and the Yelverton

FAMILY WILDLIFE WATCH – BURRATOR

Friends Group would like your support! Neil Woolcock from Ward and Chowen is donating his time to provide a professionally run auction at Walkhampton Village Hall. Doors open at 6.45pm and the auction starts at 7.30pm. Food and drink will be available and there is plenty of free parking. For more information and pledge donation ring Linda on 01822 852142 or Sheila on 01822 859215

All event listings are FREE Send us event details for our next issue (February/March) by Friday 8th January Please get in touch: editorial@moorlinks.co.uk or 01822 853110

‘It’s all about the Birds’ with the Family Wildlife Watch group at Burrator Reservoir with SWLT. £1 per person. 10.30am – 12.30pm. Hot chocolate & biscuits provided! Please contact 01822 855700 or heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk

FEBRUARY 1 February

TEACHERS WORKSHOP – BURRATOR

‘Wonder in Woodlands’: a free halfday workshop for teachers and outdoor educators by Plantlife at Burrator Discovery Centre. For more information or to book a place please contact Alison at: alison.smith@plantlife.org.uk 2 February

PRINCETOWN HISTORY CLUB

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The Riding For the Disabled Association: Lynn Pidgeon, 7.30 pm at Princetown Community Centre

Karndean

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WHAT’S ON

Christmas Church Services All Parishes December 2015

St Andrew’s in Bere Ferrers and Holy Trinity in Bere Alston: Sunday 20th December 9.30am Holy Communion BCP Holy Trinity 11.00am Elevenses BF Church Hall 3.00pm Carols & Tea Trinity Hall 6.00pm Informal Carol Service St Andrew’s

Midnight Services (all starting at 11pm) St Peter’s, Meavy St John’s, Horrabridge St Mary’s, Walkhampton St Paul’s, Yelverton Princetown United Church

Monday 21st December 6.00pm Christingle

Holy Trinity

Christmas Eve 2.30pm Nativity Service 4.00pm Nativity Service 11.30pm Midnight Mass

St Andrew St Andrew St Andrew

Christmas Day 10.00am Communion & Carols

Holy Trinity

Christmas Day 8am St Paul’s, Yelverton 9.30am St Paul’s Yelverton 9.30am St Mary’s, Walkhampton 10.30am St Peter’s, Meavy 10.30am St John’s, Horrabridge 11.00am St Leonard’s, Sheepstor 11.00am St Mary’s, Sampford Spiney 11.00am Princetown United Church

Churches across the West Dartmoor Mission Community (Meavy, Sampford Spiney, Sheepstor, Princetown, Yelverton, Horrabridge and Walkhampton)

St Andrew’s, Buckland Monachorum and Church of the Holy Spirit, Milton Combe

Wednesday 2nd December 6pm Prison & Community Carols - St Michael & All Angels, Princetown

Sunday 20th December 10.30am Readings and Carols at Milton Combe 6.30pm Lessons and Carols by candlelight

Sunday 20th December 6pm Carols by Candlelight - St Paul’s, Yelverton

Christmas Eve 4.00pm Season’s Greetings – informal with carols 11.00pm Midnight Christmas Holy Communion by candle-light

Wednesday 23rd December 4pm Carols by Candlelight – St Leonard’s, Sheepstor Sunday 27th December 6pm Carols by Candlelight – St Peter’s, Meavy Christmas Eve – 24th December Crib Services St Paul’s, Yelverton 4pm St John’s, Horrabridge 5pm www.moorlinks.co.uk

Christmas Day 8.00am Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer 9.15am Christmas Holy Communion at Milton Combe 10.30am Christmas worship for all ages, with carols 11.30am Shortened Holy Communion from BCP New Year’s Eve 11.45pm Ringing in the new year, followed by prayers in the church 39

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

A Christmas Carol 19th December St Peter’s Church, Meavy Members of Meavy Amateur Dramatics (MAD) will be performing an hour-long reading, in period costume, of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Sam Regan de Bere. The performance will take place in the wonderfully atmospheric setting of St Peter’s Church Meavy at 6.30pm on Saturday 19th December 2015. Doors will open at 6.00pm and light refreshments, including mulled wine, will be available through a donation. Tickets will be £5 for adults and £2 for children.

Tickets can be obtained / reserved through David Tall, 01822 852221 or dmrmtall@mvdartmoor.freeserve. co.uk. or from Steve Earp at the Royal Oak Inn on 01822 852844

St Leonard’s Church – Sheepstor Candlelit Traditional Service 4pm – Wednesday 23rd December Traditional candlelit carol service at St Leonard's Church Sheepstor on Wednesday 23rd Dec at 4pm followed by festive refreshments . There will also be a communion service on Christmas morning at 11am . All will be made very welcome in this moorland church .

Dogworthy’s Magic Christmas Show “Pure quality entertainment ... the ideal Christmas treat. Over the years Jacolly Puppet Theatre has toured far and wide on both sides of the Atlantic. This December there is a chance for families to see their Christmas show locally. One of their most endearing characters is Dogworthy ~ the dog magician who loves to entertain with his magic tricks, performing with his human sidekick, Holly. With his ever-popular Christmas show, he will bring his special box full of magic tinsel, which spills and sparkles as it is conjured into his favourite Christmassy things ... twirling decorations, Christmas trees and a snowman. Dogworthy is planning some tasty refreshments to be available at each show. At the Watermark Theatre in Ivybridge, there will even be lunch ~ with basket meals and mince pies plus mulled wine for the grown-ups. As well as Ivybridge, the show is playing at Tavistock Town Hall and St Paul’s Church Hall in Yelverton. See the What’s On listing for dates, times and prices. 40

Children under 12 to be accompanied by a grown-up. Advance booking recommended. Tickets: £5 each; £18 family. From the Cornish Riviera Box Office by calling 01726 879500 and online at www.crbo.co.uk; or in person from Book Stop, 3 Market Place, Tavistock. editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Photography, Film and Talk 15th January, 7.30pm Clearbrook Village Hall Acclaimed photographer, Chris Chapman, will be giving an illustrated lecture about his documentary photography work on Dartmoor over the last 40 years. He will be showing at least one short film and talking about his many photographs including the showing of the pictures from 'Last Days at Truelove Farm', the story of the selling of a family farm in the parish of Shaugh Prior in 1998. Tickets £4 - only in advance from 01822 854411

Winter Walks Devotees of The Garden House keen to get their horticultural fix during the winter months can now take advantage of a brand new programme of guided walks. The popular English garden attraction at Buckland Monarchorum closed for the current season on November 1 and will re-open to the public on March 1 next year. But for the first time, the charitable trust which runs the garden is introducing a Winter Walks schedule on the last Thursday of every month in the closed season – led by Head Gardener Nick Haworth. The programme is an opportunity to see the garden during the winter months and into early spring – as well as finding out what planting is planned for 2016. The walks cost £3 per person, but are free to Friends of The Garden House. Anyone wishing to take part should meet at the entrance at 2pm. DEC: Thurs 31. JAN 16: Thurs 28. FEB: Thurs 25 For more information about The Garden House visit www.thegardenhouse.org.uk or tel: (01822) 854769 www.moorlinks.co.uk

NATIONAL TRUST From 1-20 December, Christmas arrives inside the abbey as the ground floor is transformed into an Elizabethan inspired Christmas home. Imagine the pots and pans in the kitchen bubbling away with delicious winter feasts, enjoy a moment of peace in the chapel and immerse yourself in the magic of the season in the great hall. On Tuesday 1, 8 and 15 December see our costumed guides prepare a festive dinner in the kitchen between 11.30am-3.30pm. Olde Father Christmas comes home over the weekends, giving children young and old the chance to rediscover the Christmas magic within the great hall. Throughout the last few days of November the elves from the National Association of Flower Arranging Society have been busy preparing the Christmas celebrations within Buckland’s great barn. Join us from 1-20 December as the society unveils their grand interpretation of the twelve days of Christmas.

Christmas at

Buckland Abbey

Add a personal touch to your festivities with a series of drop-in workshops at Buckland. Highlights include creating felt decorations with the Wet Felting Company on 6 and 13 December (normal admission plus £3 per person) and indoor woodland craft making with the Naturemake team on 19 and 20 December (normal admission plus £2-£8) per person. Please visit Buckland Abbey’s website for more details of our festive schedule.

a Christmas at Buckland Rediscover the Christmas magic at Buckland Abbey this December 1 - 20 December, 11am-4pm Buckland Abbey near Yelverton nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland | 01822 853607

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

This December experience Christmas at Buckland Abbey as the National Trust property near Yelverton reopens for the festive season with a winter wonderland full of treats and seasonal delights for everyone to enjoy.

What could be better than a walk through the woods on a frosty winter’s day? Buckland’s four way marked trails across the estate are available as usual during December and offer some spectacular views across Dartmoor and the Tavy valley. Four legged friends are welcome on the walks too – just ask for a map when you arrive at Visitor Welcome. The gardens are also open, and are a wonderful place to enjoy a moment of peace and quiet, surrounded only by bird song and the crunch of leaves underfoot. If you need a haven of calm away from packed shopping centres and queues of traffic, look no further. Our restaurant will be running a festive menu throughout December this year. Treat yourself to a mince pie or a warming mulled cider, or meet friends for a home cooked lunch before adventuring out on a woodland walk. Head upstairs to pick up some extra special gifts in our shop before you go. With beautiful items to suit all budgets, we have everything from cards and decorations to food and drink, books and homeware, so no matter who you’re buying for, you’re bound to find that perfect present. Buckland Abbey re-opens between 27 December – 3 January (closed New Year’s Day) for post-Christmas walks with family and friends around the gardens and estate and for warming hot chocolates within our restaurant.

For more information about Christmas at Buckland Abbey please visit our website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland, call us on 01822 853607 or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. www.moorlinks.co.uk

MUSIC & ART

Merry ChristmART! Yes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festART time again! Last year we talked about buying original presents for family and loved ones from the makers themselves. The Bank Square Arts Market was originally a regeneration project for Tavistock and in 2013 it changed to Tavistock Arts Market on the Bedford Square and continues to go from strength to strength. We took the opportunity to catch up with some originals and TAM regulars recently. There will be another opportunity for you

to see them on 5th Dec in Tavistock where visitors to the market will find unique products not found on the high street and have a chance to meet the artists and makers themselves! Also Sunday 13th Dec there will be a fabulous Christmas Arts Market at Ocean Studios, Royal William Yard, with fairy stilt walkers, Military Wives Choir and Father Christmas arriving by boat! Their Christmas Show will be on too and we hope to see Laure Bury and Tessa Jane exhibiting there.

The perfect gift...

John Baldwin Goldsmith 11 Duke Street Tavistock 01822 613129

John James

15 Duke Street Tavistock 01822 616415

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

MUSIC & ART

20 Years for Stannary Brass Band! Saturday 12th December - Gala Concert This year sees the 20th Anniversary for Stannary Brass Band of Tavistock. Chairman of the band, Stephen Gray, said: “The Band has gone from strength to strength over this time, encouraging new players and supporting experienced musicians in their growth and development. The emphasis in the band is that music should be fun and free for all and with this in mind we do not charge membership or subscriptions, and we try to give new players the free use of an instrument.

We play an active part in Tavistock, taking part in Remembrance Day, the annual Carnival as well as performing at various charity events and fetes. We have close links with the Lions Club of Tavistock who support our events on a regular basis.

We meet each week at the Wortham Hall, Mount Kelly Prep on Wednesday evenings, with our beginners and Training Groups starting at 6:15pm under the baton of our newly appointed Training Band MD Lydia Tanner. This is followed by our main band with our MD Peter Jones at 7:30pm.

Our next concert will be on Saturday December the 12th in St Eustacius Church, Tavistock and will be hosted by our Patron Angela Rippon. Our special guests for this event are the ever popular Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir. Tickets are available from Ward & Chowen in Tavistock – one of our supporters – and cost £7 per adult and £2 for under 18s.

We generate income from performances, grant applications and sponsorship. To date we have raised over £50,000 to enable us to purchase new instruments, thus freeing up our older ones for beginners to use. We operate an open door policy and players of all levels are welcome to come along.

Further details are on our website or by phoning 01822 854888

Plymouth Philharmoic Choir and Orchestra Sunday 6th December Felix Mendelssohn: Elijah Conducted by Christopher Fletcher Soloists: Catherine Hamilton (soprano), Alison Kettlewell (mezzo-soprano), Christopher Lemmings (tenor), Darren Jeffery (bass-baritone).  Elijah has many outstanding qualities: imaginative orchestration, spontaneity of the counterpoint, dramatic impetus, and the sheer beauty of many of the arias and choruses. Above all, there is no mistaking the work’s considerable dramatic impact, epitomised by the vivid characterisation of Elijah himself. The concert is being held at Plymouth Guildhall, Armada Way, PL1 2AD. For tickets visit www.plymouthphilchoir.org or www. wegottickets.com. Ticket Manager: 01822 853791 FUTURE CONCERTS IN 2016 Sunday 20 March Bach: St John Passion,  Sunday 3 July John Rutter: Feel The Spirit, Morten Lauridsen: Lux Aeterna. www.moorlinks.co.uk

DOG WALK

A walk at

Burrator with Angus & Sennen

1. Park at the Quarry Car Park (on the left before Burrator dam) and take the track out of the car park (on the left as you enter the car park) and continue walking uphill until you come to the old Princetown to Yelverton railway track. Turn left and walk along the track. As you come towards a line of trees there are 2 water hydrants by the track just before a water trough. Turn right at this point and head up the hill. Follow the line of trees and telegraph poles until a view of Kit Hill, Brentor and Cox Tor opens up on the far left. 2. Turn right at the last telegraph pole and continue up the hill until you reach the Water Authority boundary stone at the highest point. Continue walking, keeping to the left of the area of conifer woods ahead of you, until you reach a small car park next to a road.

3. Cross the road, cut over the bank and turn right towards the next area of conifer woods keeping parallel with the road. 4. As you approach the woods you will see a stile (with a dog entrance). Enter the woods at this point. After 150 metres the track forks left towards a ladder/stile where the track exits the woods. Turn right and walk around the edge of the woods until you see a gate taking the track back into the lower edge of the woods. [4a. If your dog is not comfortable with the

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

Angus and Sennen love this walk, through woods, with water for a quick dip and lots of room to charge about! This is a relatively easy walk, with a huge variety of scenery and some stunning views and should take about 2 hours.

ladder type of stile you may wish to take the right fork which will take you through the woods down to the broad track at the lower edge of the woods just past (5).] 5. Enter the woods through the gate (signposted to Yennadon Down) and walk along the wide (and often muddy) track until you reach a gate at the far side which opens onto the road. Cross over the road and follow the leat on the other side. 6. Cross the next road and go through the metal gate on the other side to continue walking along the leat. At the end of

the leat join the old railway track just above on the right and continue walking in the same direction. As you leave the woods you will once again have a lovely view of Burrator reservoir. At the sign for ‘no cycling beyond this point’ turn left to go back down to Quarry Car Park.

Sales are held at Parade Business Park, Tavistock, fortnightly on Mondays. Viewings held from 12 - 5pm on the Sunday preceding sale. See our website for the full auction calendar. Antiques • Collectables • Jewellery • Quality Furniture • Household Appliances • Garden Furniture • Tools & Machinery We offer house clearance and valuation services, and take in goods at our ofﬁce, every Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 4pm and Saturday 9am - 12 noon.

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FEATURE

In defence of the Dartmoor Hill Pony The article by Tony Brewington of the Dartmoor Pony Society in the last issue of Moor Links and Tavy Links caused quite a stir. As such, Graham Goddard, Vice Chairman of the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association (DHPA) writes in strong defence of the Dartmoor Hill Pony and the vital role they play on Dartmoor.

The Dartmoor Hill Pony is the true indigenous Dartmoor Pony as they live a healthy and free life out on Dartmoor all year long and have been doing so for very many generations. These hardy and loveable ponies have been very important to Dartmoor, along with cattle and sheep, in maintaining the Dartmoor landscape so beloved of both locals and the many visitors to Dartmoor. The Dartmoor Commoners Council, in conjunction with the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association, run a stallion inspection and approval scheme which ensures only approved stallions run on the open moor thus ensuring the continued hardiness, thriftiness and soundness of the ponies are all maintained. The DHPA has also recently been leading the way with regard to consultations with DEFRA concerning transportation, pass porting and ensuring that we are still able to brand our ponies for identification purposes. It was the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association that won approval for DEFRA allowing pony keepers on Dartmoor to transport ponies to market without firstly having to microchip and register them before leaving the home farms. The Dartmoor Hill Pony Association actively promotes the annual Chagford pony sale which is a very important market place for 48

all Dartmoor Ponies. There is also a smaller summer sale of halter broken ponies. The DHPA keeps a list on their website of ponies for sale direct from the home farms. The Dartmoor Pony Society states that the Dartmoor Hill Pony has no breed standard. This I would strongly take issue with as their most important standard is their hardiness, thriftiness and soundness which allows them to withstand the harsh Dartmoor climate, which to all Dartmoor Hill Pony keepers is extremely important. Their value, as I stated earlier, comes from their use as conservation grazing tools on the moor, the importance of which cannot be overstated. The Dartmoor Hill Pony has never been bred purely for meat and over the years thousands have found loving homes all over the UK, Europe, Canada and beyond as excellent childrensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ponies, with classes at many one day and County Shows. The Dartmoor Hill Pony Association and its members along with the Dartmoor Commoners Council have been working very hard to remove any unmarked ponies from Dartmoor thus reducing the overall numbers and this, in turn, is reducing the number of foals produced each year. We have also been involved with contraception trials for mares out on the moor. editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

Importantly the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association has introduced an on farm disposal scheme which means any unwanted ponies can be humanely destroyed on the home farm. The Dartmoor Hill Pony Association would like to point out that it was particular Dartmoor Hill Ponies which were chosen as the basis for the Heritage Pony Scheme, something which we feel, as an Association, gets forgotten and we are pleased and proud that they chose our Hill Ponies for the basis of their project. Taking all these factors into account, the Dartmoor Hill Pony, its Association and the enormous voluntary effort to ensure the future of ALL ponies on Dartmoor, we feel that these ponies deserve a great deal of respect and support from all those who live, work, value and enjoy the stunning landscape of Dartmoor. Graham Goddard Vice Chairman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dartmoor Hill Pony Association www.moorlinks.co.uk

For further information visit our website: www.dartmoorhillponyassociation.co.uk You may also like to visit the website of Friends of the Dartmoor Hill Pony, where you will find details on how to support or buy ponies for riding, driving, companion or conservation grazing: www.friendsofthedartmoorhillpony.co.uk or www.wildtowonderful.org With thanks to Sarah-Jane of Friends of The Dartmoor Hill Pony for supplying all these lovely images.

FOOD & WINE

Mincemeat Frangipane Tart A delicious seasonal tart, perfect for any occasion over the festive period.

For the frangipane

For the pastry

8oz butter 1oz flour 8oz ground almonds 4 eggs 8oz caster sugar Almond essence Mincemeat * Improve your mincemeat with disaronno, Cointreau, lemon zest, orange zest and juice and leave for 24hours (this is optional but recommended) * Cream your butter & sugar till light * Slowly add eggs one at a time while still mixing * Mix in almonds and essence * Spread the mincemeat (as generously as you wish) into the blind baked tart case * Pipe or spread the frangipane mix over the top of the mincemeat to fill the tart * Sprinkle with flaked almonds * Bake on 150C for approximately 30mins until golden or until a knife comes out of the top clean * Allow to cool

250g flour 90g icing sugar 125g unsalted butter 1 whole egg * Mix the flour,icing sugar & butter together until a fine breadcrumb * Add the egg to form a dough * Allow to rest before use * Roll out on floured surface * Line the tart mould with the pastry, cover with baking parchment then add baking beans and bake for 12mins * Allow to cool 1 pre baked tart case (see above) Best served hot with clotted cream or custard next to a roaring log fire with a cheeky glass of mulled wine! If your not a mincemeat fan you can just as easily substitute the mincemeat for any kind of poached or roasted fruit or jam. Mike Palmer Chef, Two Bridges Hotel

Wide variety of gluten free sauces and jams.

WA BIDDER & SONS Orders now being taken for Free Range meat, game and poultry for Christmas Call:

01822 854559 0742 9527429

Email: sharonstephens07@btinternet.com We also do cupcake classes and cupcake parties for adults and children!

Closed: 25/26/27/28th December 1/2/3rd January Open: 29/30/31st December SW Hospice volunteers will be serving refreshments Normal Opening Hours Christmas opening hours 22nd & 23rd Dec 6am - 6pm 24th Dec 6am - 4pm

2 Moorland Villas, Yelverton, PL20 6DT

01822 852008 editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

Charles’ Christmas with Wine With Charles’s selection of wines for every taste and every pocket, to go alongside each scrumptious delicacy that makes up our extravagant Christmas meals, you can’t go wrong! It is all too apparent that for many, wine is wine, whether we are cracking open random bottles to wash down a BBQ or selecting to impress at a family wedding or, maybe, as in this case choosing wines to enhance jollifications over Christmas. Some still regard wine as confusing and as such the selection as a chore. There is one grape that I consider to be inseparable with Christmas it is the Pinot Noir, regarded as the Noble Grape. I start with this red as it conjures up the image and expectation of cosy candlelit evenings, tables laden with Christmas fare, open fires and delicious fruity Pinot Noir swilling around in over generous wine goblets. Christmas is not Christmas without turkey. Whilst the restrained flavours of a white meat can be hijacked by the more dramatic influences of dried fruit stuffing, ham and sausages, the Pinot Noir grape can bind all these flavours without overwhelming. There is no doubt that if price is not a consideration, Burgundy and Pinot Noir are insurmountable; Volnay, Cotes de Beaune are always worth an extravagant punt. That said, the smart money is on New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and our top budget beater rocks in from Romania – ‘Paparuda’ at £6.50, just voted the ‘Best Value Pinot Noir in the Country’ ... so true in every way. We are delighted to have acquired an allocation of the official ‘Best Pinot Noir from New Zealand’. ‘Greystones’ from Waipara Valley is sublime and at £24.95 mimics a £40 Burgundy. Mid-priced and right on the money at £8.90 is our Klippenkop from Robertson, South Africa ... it is stunning. I would not be doing my job as a Vintner if I did not mention Beaujolais. Be they the everyday youthful, ridiculously over fruity and juicy Beaujolais or the more sublime Fleurie Cru Beaujolais. Boxing Day is Beaujolais day! So well suited to

www.moorlinks.co.uk

take on pickles, cold meats and the like. Serve slightly chilled to add an extra dimension. It’s true to say whilst the vast array of white grape options can be overwhelming, it is the classics that come to the fore over Christmas. Gewurztraminer is a must with smoked salmon; racy, scented Riesling from the Mosel, often light in alcohol and subtle any time before during or after a meal; Kiwi Sauvignon, if you favour drama and big flavours of gooseberry, asparagus, elderflower, these are for you. Maybe the more elegant pure style of Sauvignon from the Loire such as our star of the moment, Les Anges 2014, a Sancerre look-a-like is only £7.99. And yes ... Chardonnay, the true classic white grape, the grape of Burgundy, with or without oak influence and from virtually every country and indeed at every price point. And ... the essential part of Christmas… Pudding Wine, or Dessert Wine, call it what you will. Whilst primarily sweet, their levels of sweetness are as variable as the colour and price. Every year one wine in particular dominates, ‘Rutherglen Muscat’. Fortified like a Port, this wine has been nicknamed ‘Liquid Christmas Pudding’, the perfect accompaniment with all types of Christmas pudding. So ridiculously moreish and a bottle will fit into a Christmas stocking! For those who want a more restrained and less sweet wine, Casa Silva GewurztraminerSemillon at £8.50 is so well suited for all desserts. Editor says stop! I haven’t even mentioned Champagne, Cognac, Armagnac and so on .....

Happy Christmas! Charles Steevenson

BUSINESS

IT FAQs

Gidon from The Technology Company answers your technology questions

Q. I have no mobile phone coverage at home so can’t be contacted on my mobile or send and receive texts. What are my options? The free option for text messaging if you have a smartphone, is to use an app like WhatsApp. This uses your home’s Wi-Fi for a textlike messaging service. You’ll have to encourage your friends and family to also download the app. Other options depend on your network provider. Vodafone offers the best option (but at a price) called Sure Signal that creates a 3G hotspot in your home using your Wi-Fi router. EE offer something similar called Signal Box. O2 offer a free solution called TU Go – an app you download to your smartphone that you can use for phone calls and texting over Wi-Fi when you have no signal.

viewable through the app, but you have space to take more. The only disadvantage is you really need a Dropbox Pro account to make the most of Carousel, which costs £8 per month and gives you 1000GB of space. Q. I’ve heard there’s a feature on new iPhones which can use up your data allowance? Is this right? Any newer Apple iPhone (or cellular iPad) with the latest iOS 9, has a feature called Wi-Fi Assist which automatically uses your cellular data connection if your Wi-Fi speed is slow. This can quickly use up your limited data allowance and is on by default. To turn it off, go to Settings > Mobile Data and scroll all the way down and tap Wi-Fi Assist.

Q. What’s your favourite smartphone app this month? Carousel (iOS and Android) is a photo and video gallery app for your smartphone. It automatically backs up (and organises) all your smartphone’s photos and videos at their original quality, and allows them to be easily shared and viewed across all your devices. My favourite feature of the app is its ability to free up space on your phone once the media has been backed up. Everything is still

Gidon Reid The Technology Company, Tavistock If you have any questions now or for a future column, and for all previous articles, please visit thetechnologycompany.co.uk/linksqa.

For all your technology needs

Computers • Printers • Tablets • Cameras & Action Cameras • Sonos Wireless HiFi Bluetooth Speakers • Parrot Drones • Garmin GPS & Smart Watches • Torches Leatherman Multi-tools • Accessories • Gadgets • Christmas Gift Ideas from £5

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BUSINESS

Saving Our Rural Pubs Geoffrey Cox MP on plans to help support our local pubs In our rural communities pubs are an essential asset, acting as the centre of our local social network, creating community cohesion, and performing a range of important social, economic and community functions in maintaining village life. They are important places to meet and talk; acting as selling hubs for local producers, who use them for placing their products; meeting places for many local clubs and groups; and vitally, generating part-time and casual employment which is essential to our rural economy. Despite this the number of pubs has consistently declined during past decades; impacting greatly on the communities they once served. It is therefore essential that more is done to stop this trend from continuing, and to support these pubs to serve their communities for generations to come. With this in mind, the Government has launched a new £1.5million Pub Loan Fund to enable local communities to take control of pubs at risk of closure, meaning that local people will be able to apply for small loans to help restore their pub, to help pay for feasibility work or lawyers’ fees. £350,000 has also been provided to ‘Pub is the Hub’ and the Plunkett Foundation to help local residents buy and run pubs and to enable pubs to provide community services.

RHS CHELSEA GOLD MEDALIST 2014

The last Labour Government’s planned 10 percent tax rise on cider has also been scrapped and the beer duty escalator has been removed altogether. The duty on beer has been cut by one percent and I welcome the fact that beer is now 8p cheaper. The introduction of the Live Music Act, also makes it easier for pubs to play live music.

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In addition, the introduction of a national list of Assets of Community Value has seen many pubs protected from redevelopment. Communities are able to nominate any pub as an Asset of Community Value and then if it comes up for sale, the community has six months to raise the necessary funds in a bid to buy it. Over 800 pubs have been listed in this way. But we have not stopped there, the Government has also doubled small business rate relief and increased the temporary business rate discount for pubs with rateable values below £50,000 to £1,500 for 2015-16, cut corporation tax and National Insurance for employers, given pubs greater flexibility over weight and measures, allowing beer and wine to be served in different sizes, and given publicans tied to pub companies new rights under a statutory Code of Practice. Supporting our local pubs is a key priority for the Conservative party. Their longevity will without question have a positive impact on our rural communities across the country. Geoffrey Cox MP

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BUSINESS

Do I really need to get a Financial Order on divorce? A very recent Judgment would strongly suggest that the answer to that is ‘YES’ … if you do not want to be looking over your shoulder indefinitely. The Supreme Court has ruled that a former wife has a right to have her financial claim heard in the family court 22 years after her divorce. In the case in point, the parties had not enjoyed a high standard of living during the time they lived together. They lived largely on benefits and in rented accommodation. They separated in 1983 after about two years together. The husband then spent about eight years as a traveller. The parties were divorced in 1992. The husband went on to build a very successful business and became a multi-millionaire. The wife applied for financial provision to enable her to buy a home and to establish a fund to maintain her for life. She valued the claim at £1.9M. The fact that the wife’s right to have her claim heard does not of course mean that it will be successful. In fact, in the course of giving the unanimous judgment of the Supreme Court, Lord Wilson referred to the ‘formidable difficulties’ in the wife’s

application : He also went on to consider, in some detail, the delay in pursuing the claim and criticised the way the former wife had put her claim and to say that ‘an award approaching that size is out of the question’. There was more merit in her argument based on the relative contributions of the parties to the welfare of the family. This case does however give a stark reminder to divorcing couples that, unless their agreement is contained in an order, approved by the court there can be no certainty that a settlement will not be challenged or money they earn, and assets they, acquire post divorce will be safe from a claim by their former spouse in the future. At SWLaw we offer a fixed price for obtaining an order by consent where you and your partner agree on how the finances should be split (certain conditions apply). Further, if you cannot agree on a settlement, we will do everything we can to help you reach a settlement in an amicable and non-confrontational way, which can then be finalised by way of court order. Carolyn Thomas SWLaw Solicitors, 01752 205202

Thinking about divorce? My name is Carolyn and I am a Chartered Legal Executive with SWLaw Solicitors. I have more than eight years of experience in helping people through separation and divorce. Together with my colleagues, we will guide and help you through all the challenges that you will face as a result of a relationship breakdown.

You can expect expert but sensitive advice, and a clear understanding of the costs involved at each stage. We can help you resolve your problems and support you to plan again for the future. For a free private conversation please call us on

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22/10/2015 16:5655

HISTORY

A Literary Christmas 1836 at Tavistock Vicarage

Anna Bray

Anna had begun her career as a writer after touring parts of France with her first husband, the artist, Charles Alfred Stothard, and her first book, Letters written during a tour through Normandy, Britanny and other parts of France in 1818, was published in 1820. In 1821 Charles died in a tragic accident at Bere Ferrers church, when he had fallen from a ladder while tracing a portrait from one of the stained glass windows. Anna married the vicar of Tavistock, the Reverend Edward Atkyns Bray in 1822, and her second book Memoirs of Charles Alfred Stothard was published in 1823.

Christmas week of 1836 was a very special time at the vicarage in Tavistock. The vicar’s wife, the writer Anna Eliza Bray had invited the Poet Laureate Robert Southey and his son Charles to stay. There must have been much excitement in the household as they prepared for this important Christmas visit and Anna’s forty sixth birthday on Christmas Day.

domestic servant in a house near the river not far from the vicarage, owned by the Hughes family. Mary had been born in Tavistock on 20 August 1804 to Edmund and Anne Colling. Edmund was a farm labourer and the family were very poor, but Mary did attend the local dame school, where she was more interested in books than domestic crafts. Her maternal grandmother, Mary Philp, was later said to have been one of the greatest influences on Mary’s early life, although she had died when Mary was only four. Mary had been inspired to write a long poem about her, and when she

Most of Anna’s literary work was completed while she lived in Tavistock. Her most enduring work, A Description of the part of Devonshire bordering on the Tamar and the Tavy was published in three volumes by John Murray in 1836. The idea for this work on the people, customs, and folklore of West Devon had emerged from discussions by letter with Robert Southey and it was published as a series of letters. These volumes can be found in the Tavistock Subscription Library. The book proved very popular and was republished in 1879 as a two volume edition. In 1830, Anna became acquainted with a young woman called Mary Maria Colling, a member of the congregation at St Eustachius church, where her husband preached unfathomable sermons. Anna recorded in her Autobiography (published posthumously in 1884), that she had noticed Mary Colling at church; she was intelligent, of neat appearance and had written some poetry. Mary, then 25, was employed as a 56

Tavistock vicarage where Rev. Edward Atkyns Bray and Anna Bray entertained the poet Laureate Robert Southey. editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

was older she was able to fund a gravestone for her beloved grandmother. This headstone remains in the churchyard in front of St Eustachius Church in Tavistock, but does not mark the original grave. Mary submitted some of her writing for Anna Bray to read and she was so impressed, that in 1831 she had a selection of Mary’s poetry Fables and other Pieces in Verse privately published. Robert Southey, who had been consulted about the merit of Mary’s poetry, became a patron of the publication, and there were also other notable subscribers, such as William Wordsworth. Mary Colling’s talent as a poet was considered quite curious and remarkable at the time as, for someone of her class, but also slightly inappropriate, because it might disturb the natural (class) order. Although Mary Colling and Anna Bray both had interests in writing it was mutually agreed that they occupied rather different places in life, as ordained by God. During the Christmas week of 1836 it had snowed heavily and

Anna was not able to take her guest Robert Southey around the local attractions of Tavistock and Dartmoor, mentioned in A Description of the part of Devonshire bordering on the Tamar and the Mary Colling Tavy. However, being the season of goodwill, Mary Colling the poet was invited to join the Brays and Southeys in the evenings for their readings and discussions. Southey, the ‘king of poets’ enjoyed Mary’s artless company and Devonshire accent during that Christmas week. He remarked that Mary – with her pretty appearance and intelligence – would have been a ‘sweet creature’, if only she had been brought up in a higher sphere in life. Sadly, towards the end of her life Mary developed some extraordinary behaviours, which might have been due to alcoholism or an undiagnosed illness, possibly Tourette’s syndrome, and spent some time in an asylum before she died on 6 August 1853. In 1873 (by which time she was living in London) Anna Bray, in editing her memoirs for publication, came across a letter she had written, forty years before to Robert Southey, describing Mary Colling in glowing terms as her ‘friend’. Anna with hindsight revised this letter before publication, deleting the inappropriate sentence referring to Mary as a friend. However, during that snowy Christmas week of 1836 the ‘natural’ class order was temporarily forgotten. Dr Ann Pulsford

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LAST WORD

Loving our neighbour as ourselves The news in 2015 has been full of items about refugees. Pictures of drowned youngsters flashing across our screens have moved us. Stories of families torn apart by wars and civil unrest, as millions have migrated into Europe to escape conflict, have challenged us to respond.

How fitting it is therefore to be reminded of the work done on our doorstep by the Devon & Cornwall Refugee Centre in Plymouth. Perhaps a less well-known aspect of the Christmas story is the fact that Mary, Joseph and Jesus became refugees themselves as they fled for their lives into Egypt to escape the loathsome King Herod and his massacre of the innocents in Bethlehem. In the midst of the joy of Christmas is a subplot involving suffering and danger that resonates with us today because of what we have seen unfold this year. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus by tucking into the festive season to celebrate the good news of Emmanuel, which means “God with us”, I hope we will continue be mindful of the needs of others and those who work tirelessly to bring relief to those in need whether they are refugees or those who rely on

the work of our local food banks to make ends meet. Whether we are people of faith or not “loving our neighbour as ourselves” is something to which I believe we can all subscribe in this Christmas season, and throughout the year.

With every good wish Revd Preb Nick Shutt, Rector of the West Dartmoor Mission Community.

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