Moor Links December/January 2020 by Links Magazines

MOOR LINKS December/January 2020 | Issue 43

216

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

EVENTS & FESTIVITIES

A WAY WITH WORDS

We meet Jac Ilett & Holly Griffin from Jacolly Puppet Theatre & dog behaviouralist, Penelope Locke

IN THIS ISSUE:

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Christmas is in the air… The deadline date for any inclusions in the February/ March issue of Moor Links will be 8th January 2020. For all editorial enquiries please contact Rosemary via email: rosemary. best@linksmagazines.co.uk

THE LINKS TEAM: Publisher: Tim Randell Editor: Rosemary Best Writers: Nichola Williams, Kaye Rogers Design: Sara Venner, Julian Rees Customer Services: Rachel Rees Advertising: Jane Daniel, Olivia Breyley, Joanne Mallard, Claire Pearce

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Whether you embrace Christmas fully or partake reluctantly, there’s definitely something uplifting about the shared spirit of celebration. I generally fall between the two extremes, but especially enjoy the general sense of excitement, and relaxing with family and friends. However, if you find yourself waning under the profusion of preparations in the run-up to Christmas, then take a bit of time out of the hustle and bustle, and visit some of the fairs, festivals, markets, concerts, shows and pantomimes on offer in our ‘what’s on’ sections. And if January sometimes seems like an anti-climax after the hectic December pace of life, then Mary Sargeant gives the low-down on wassailing in our history article, plus there’s a selection of wassailing events to sample in ‘what’s on extra’. For this issue Nichola also went to visit Jac Ilett and Holly Griffin for a behind-the-scenes tour of Jacolly Puppet Theatre; Kaye went to meet Penelope Locke and discover how to get the best out of your canine friend. While I had the pleasure of meeting two Marys involved with The Tavistock Physically Challenged Group, and found out more about the difference this small charity makes to people’s lives. As we near the end of another year I’d like to thank our fantastic regular contributors, advertisers and everyone who sends in news and events. I hope you enjoy this issue and would like to wish all our readers ‘Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’!

Rosemary Best

Editor

you spot him too?

20 41

Contents 4 Local People

25 Education

55 Book Review

8 Charity

27 Kids’ What’s On

56 Food & Drink

11 Health & Wellbeing

29 Christmas Services

62 History

14 Gardening

32 What’s On

64 Outdoors & Active

17 Farming Diary

41 What’s on Extra

66 Tech Help

19 Naturalist

49 Music & Art

70 Trade Secrets

20 Community News

52 National Trust

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@moorlinks Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to Olijam Communications Ltd the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused by such material. The opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. All content is fully covered by copyright laws and reproduction in part or whole is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher.

LOCAL PEOPLE

The stage is set... Jacolly Puppet Theatre is a professional touring company formed by Jacqueline Ilett and Holly Griffin in 1977 - I don’t think they will mind if I describe them as brilliantly unconventional whilst also incredibly warm, funny and full of passion for their work. Jac was born in South East England but spent her formative years in West and East Africa where her father’s work as an economic adviser was based. Back in England she read German and drama at Hull University and it was on a year’s sabbatical in Munich that she first really encountered puppets - and was smitten! On graduating, she worked variously as an actress in repertory theatres and as a performer with puppet companies, including the Little Angel Theatre in Islington making her way by freelance puppet-making in between. By 1977 Jac was hankering after starting her own puppet theatre company - if she could just find the right person to start it with. Holly was born in Devon to an artistic mother and a dentist father. After a foundation course, followed by studying photography and set design at Plymouth College of Art, she moved to London with her partner Paul, and lived on a boat on the Thames whilst working in films and advertising, as well as co-running a building company. Returning to Devon, she rented a studio on Plymouth’s Barbican and began making puppets which she later sold from a quaint little Tudor house and shop they bought in Dartmouth. After a happy few years, they sold up, bought and renovated a schooner, and sailed

down towards the Med, where Holly gave puppet shows in Gibraltar; her new creations were so well received, she soon realised puppetry was going to be her vocation, and when she returned to the UK she was introduced to Jac. There was an immediate connection and the pair have worked together ever since. To describe them as lively, eccentric craftswomen would be an understatement - they are a wonderful force of nature and their shows have been hugely enjoyed on both sides of the Atlantic. Playing in an international children’s festival in Toronto in 1982 led to nine tours that took them across much of Canada and into the States. Jac’s parents had moved to a characterful old farmhouse in Ontario so duplicate stage and sets were built and stored in their church-sized barn, and only the puppets had to be flown back and forth across the Atlantic. In the meantime, touring shows also took Jacolly on adventures across the length and breadth of Britain. Their bookings have included performing in well-known theatres such as the Bristol Old Vic and Lyric Hammersmith, but the majority have taken place in primary schools. Whilst always aiming to entertain, their shows often tell a cautionary, educational

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LOCAL PEOPLE

tale: working with shadow, rod, hand and string puppets, Jac and Holly like to turn their hand (quite literally!) to different dramatic challenges - for example, they created a cast of 40 life-size insects for a play on biodiversity, commissioned by the University of Plymouth; they addressed bullying issues with a forum theatre format, where characters stepped outside the story to ask the audience’s advice; and there was even a foray into cabaret. They are both passionate about the environment and some of their productions, especially their multi-media show, ‘Astra and the Waste Monster’, have encouraged children and adults alike to be more aware of the damage we are inflicting on our planet. Enjoying sharing their enthusiasm for puppetry, they also teach ways to make puppets and how to bring them to life. They have a new project for spring 2020: recognising that puppetry can be a powerful tool for promoting positive relationships and

communication, they are developing teambuilding workshops. Holly is making hundreds of intricate, articulated shadow puppets for teams to use on overhead projectors with Jac’s beautiful miniature backdrops, so that stories, along with their aims and issues can be enacted in the relative safety of the puppet world. Their amazing home in Yelverton is an homage to puppets – with an orderly workshop, a practice space for rehearsals and storage for their many puppets, some of which are quite beautifully bewitching and others borderline scary. It’s hard to imagine Jac and Holly without Jacolly Puppet Theatre, which perhaps has allowed them to fully blossom into two fabulous women devoted to their art. Nichola Williams

For more information on Jacolly shows and workshops see jacolly-puppets.co.uk

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LOCAL PEOPLE

It’s all about canines Penelope Locke specialises in teaching people how to understand the language of dogs, helping them influence their canine companion’s behaviour in positive ways. Penelope’s interest in dog training began in 1995 when her family adopted Jordan, a gentle two-year-old yellow labrador who would bark fiercely whenever visitors came to the house. She decided to seek help, and so began a journey that eventually led to launching her own training business ‘All About Canines’ in 2002. For many years, Penelope studied canine behaviour and developed her training methods, influenced by the teachings of several mentors, including Trish King, Jan Fennell, Turid Rugaas, and Ian Dunbar. She has since helped

hundreds of families with their canine companions, replacing frustration and angst, with relief and peace. Penelope was born and raised in Birmingham and after leaving school she joined the West Midlands Police, where she learned important people

skills as a young constable on the beat. One summer, she visited her mother in northern California, where she saw a very different culture and experienced attitudes which caused her to rethink her plan of working the expected 30 years as a police officer

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LOCAL PEOPLE

in Birmingham. It was enough to persuade Penelope that she should move to San Francisco and consider a change of career. Inspired by some English friends she met there, Penelope studied tourism at a local travel school and got a job with American Express, typing hotel confirmations. Always striving to be better, she taught herself how to do reservations on the computer system and was soon promoted to corporate travel agent, planning travel for highly respected lawyers. She eventually became her own boss, working from home as an independent agent, which fitted particularly well with raising her two children. Wanting to spend some time back in her native England, Penelope recently returned and is now based in the heart of Dartmoor near Two Bridges with her two borzois, Bella and Briar. Living on the wild, open moorland of Dartmoor invokes a real sense of calm that reflects the essence of Penelope’s training style. She believes there is a pure and spiritual simplicity to working with dogs and by respecting the dog and working with its inherent nature, Penelope helps her clients learn clear communication skills that strengthen the relationship between the owner and their dog. She knows from experience that the key to success is controlling the environment, not the dog, and she helps owners become more aware of how their dogs communicate through behaviour. When her techniques are applied consistently, and basic behaviour is mastered, enrichment activities such as scent games, tracking, agility and flyball are added to the repertoire. Penelope offers consultations all over the world, teaching people simple and kind strategies to train their dogs. Sometimes, calming professional advice over the phone is enough to offer relief from unwanted behaviour, but advice is also available through online video consultation, as well as more traditional home consultations. Penelope even offers a concentrated two-week ‘board & train’ programme for new puppies at her home, where early training makes the most of important ‘imprinting time’ and gives puppies guidance as well as opportunities for social play to ground them for the rest of their lives.

Penelope is also currently writing two children’s books, as a way of introducing her teaching to young children early on. Drawing on her own experiences, the stories centre around working with rescue dogs, and feature dog training principles for young people. Told through the eyes of a dog, the tales aim to help children learn how to be gentle with canines and be respectful of their nature. As well as all this Penelope is the founder of ‘Healthy Food Elves’, a business offering food and nutrition guidance for preparing quick meals using fresh, healthy ingredients. After changing her own eating habits and losing over two stone in weight, she decided to share her system for preparing component foods that help people maintain healthy choices over processed foods. In her spare time, Penelope enjoys DIY home projects and interior decorating - an essential skill-set when owning a cottage on Dartmoor - as well as healthy cooking, making cards decorated with pressed flowers, listening to music and participating in her Moorland Team church community. Kaye Rogers

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CHARITY FOCUS

Tavistock Physically Challenged Group This small self-funded charity helps adults with disabilities of any kind, by providing opportunities to get together socially with events, time to chat, and support. I recently had the pleasure of meeting two Marys who have played a significant part in helping The Tavistock Physically Challenged Group (TPCG) go from strength to strength. Mary Worth has been involved with the group since its early beginnings and is now an honorary committee member, while Mary Brock stepped into the breach to take over the role of chair in February 2019, after helping to run this friendly group as vice-chair and volunteering with the charity for fourteen years.

Mary Worth explained that the group originally started at Tavistock Social Services centre about 30 years ago, when half a dozen people came together to meet up for a cup of tea and a chat. The group soon grew, quickly becoming too numerous for the centre; an alternative venue was found and as needs have changed over the last three decades, this flexible group has been based in Bere Alston, Yelverton, Princetown, Crelake and has now found very accessible facilities at TASS in Tavistock. Practical help came

from many quarters in the early days, one person in particular who helped the group set itself up as a charity, was Bryn Dando, advising on finances as well as helping the committee adopt a constitution. Billie Burnett at West Devon CVS has also provided the group with strong support and has been its patron for many years. Mary Worth recalls writing nearly 80 letters to various organisations in a bid to find funding to help the group get established. She must have had a way with words because Lloyds

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offered £1000, and various other bodies contributed too. Mary then acted as treasurer for 22 years, often organising fundraising activities and making produce to sell, to pay for group outings and keep the group viable. For a while the group was also able to benefit from shared activities and outings with Leonard Cheshire Disability under the West Devon Enabling Scheme, which covered their travel expenses, as well as providing a paid support-worker, but unfortunately this came to an end and the group is now totally self-funding. TPCG currently has about 20 members, as well as 10 volunteers, and meets twice a month, with an inside meeting at The Anchorage Centre, PL19 8AG (Tavistock Area Support Services TASS) on the second Tuesday of the month and an outing on the fourth Tuesday. Indoor sessions vary from week to week with visiting speakers, presentations, quizzes, bingo, games, exercise routines, craft sessions or simply time to chat over a cup of tea or coffee. The outings always involve lunch or an afternoon tea at a variety of local venues with the necessary access and facilities to accommodate wheelchairs. In the summer months the committee

also organises occasional days out to Buckfast Abbey and other wheelchair accessible venues, such as the Tamar Trails Centre (shown in the photo) where the group enjoyed an outing at the end of September.

carers and volunteers is essential; the group is looking for more volunteers so if you can help, or would like to make a donation please contact Mary Brock on 01822 612215 or marybrock.friarswalk@ btinternet.com.

Volunteers and carers play a crucial role in supporting TPCG and making the events and activities possible. The group’s oldest member is 92 years old, but then so is its oldest volunteer, Margaret, who has been helping the group since its early days. The volunteers and members are always looking for ways to raise money, and member Jo Ley is one of the key fundraisers. The group also has use of the TASS wheelchair taxi and minibus, and having a number of volunteer drivers to call on to arrange transport to take members to meetings and on outings is invaluable. Meeting socially is an important lifeline to ensure members don’t feel isolated, and having sufficient

Overheads are kept to a minimum so members pay just £15 per year for membership, plus £3 for each meeting at The Anchorage Centre, and the cost of lunch or tea on outings. If you are interested in joining TPCG contact Mary Brock or come along to a meeting at TASS. The group has just celebrated Christmas with a meal at Tavistock Golf Club and is now taking a break until 14th January, so why not call in on 14th January when we’ll have a talk on ‘Life as a Royal Marine’ or join us for lunch on 28th January. And don’t forget to look out for look out for the TPCG Christmas Tree at the St Eustachius’ Christmas Tree Festival!

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Over the counter medications Dr Jo Coldron advises on effective ways to access help for minor illnesses. The NHS is always looking for ways and areas where it can save money, so it leaves more available resources in the pot for essential services. You may have noticed in your interactions with your GP surgeries recently that one of the areas targeted for savings, is medicines that are called ‘over the counter’ (OTC) medications. These are medicines that can be prescribed by your doctor, but you could also buy without a prescription from a supermarket or a pharmacy, for example paracetamol, antihistamines, migraine tablets, steroid creams and many more. It’s estimated that around £569 million pounds are spent by the NHS on prescribing OTC medications. Of course, a lot of these medications should continue to be prescribed, for example long term painkillers for chronic pain like arthritis, or when patients have complex conditions or are on many interacting medications. There are lots of situations where prescriptions are still the best and safest way of providing these medications. So the NHS is concentrating efforts on trying to restrict prescribing for ‘minor’ conditions – things that usually get better on their own, or could be treated by the patient alone or with advice from their local pharmacist. Our pharmacy colleagues are highly trained and experienced professionals, who have many roles within the modern NHS, for example helping patients manage acute minor illnesses, improving patient safety and compliance with their medications, as well as helping GPs manage chronic illness. They are often available for confidential consultations without a wait and at times when GP surgeries are typically less available, such as evenings, weekends and bank holidays. They can offer medical advice on a huge range of problems like rashes, cystitis, headaches, coughs and colds, constipation, emergency contraception, nappy rash and many more. If they feel you need to see a GP they can certainly advise this, but seeing them first for some of the more common and minor medical complaints could save you waiting time and get you started on effective treatment quickly. Another good source of information on self-limiting and minor ailments is the NHS website, www.nhs.uk. You can use the search box to find up-to-date information leaflets on a huge range of different topics from acne to zika virus, and they can often answer all your questions and guide you to the best

treatment options. When providing information leaflets to my patients this is often the source I use. So if we all worked together to decrease prescriptions for OTC medications what could we accomplish? It is estimated that if GPs wrote less prescriptions for minor illnesses, we could save up to £136 million per year! To put this into context, for every £1 million saved this could fund: •

39 more district nurses

•

66 more drug treatment courses for breast cancer

•

270 more hip replacements

•

1000 more drug treatment courses for Alzheimer’s

•

1040 more cataract operations

I hope you stay well this winter but if you do end up feeling under the weather, it may be possible for you to get appropriate advice and effective treatment quickly from your pharmacist, without even needing to see a GP. Find up-to-date information leaflets on a huge range of different topics at www.nhs.uk

Dr Jo Coldron Tavyside Health Centre, Tavistock

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

The end of Alzheimer’s? Most of us have been touched by dementia at least once in our lives, whether as patients, carers, family or friends. The loss of normal skills for daily life can be heart-breaking and, until recently, there has seemed little hope of either treatment or prevention. However, a new therapeutic approach to treating neurodegeneration is showing promising early results. The Bredesen ReCODE (Reversal of Cognitive Decline) protocol, developed by American neuroscientist Dr Dale Bredesen from over 30 years of research, is a multi-faceted and personalised approach to the treatment of Alzheimer’s. In his seminal paper, ‘Reversal of cognitive decline: A novel therapeutic program’ (published in the journal Aging, September 2014), Dr Bredesen described a personalised programme based on treating the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease. Out of 10 case studies, nine showed enough improvement to return to normal life activities. In a subsequent study, more than 100 patients showed improved symptoms. Meanwhile, hundreds of people around the world are already using the protocol to help alleviate or prevent cognitive decline. Dr Bredesen’s research revealed that at least 36 metabolic factors contribute to the symptoms of dementia and

Alzheimer’s and that all of these can trigger ‘downsizing’ in the brain.

•

Metabolic problems such as hormone or nutrient deficiency

In the brain there are nearly 10,000 synapses or connections which are needed for us to speak, learn, remember, find our way and make decisions.

•

Toxicity which can come from environmental factors such as mould or heavy metal exposure.

The health of the brain can be thought of in the same way as bone health. Our bones have bone building activity and bone breakdown - an imbalance of these is what leads to problems like osteoporosis. Similarly, the brain builds synapses and breaks them down and what the scientists discovered was that people with Alzheimer’s were on the wrong side of the balance. Broadly speaking, the factors fall into categories, including: •

Inflammation, which can be caused by many things including stress and viral infections such as Lyme disease.

•

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GARDENING

Taking stock of your garden

Stone Lane Gardens

Winter may be a quiet time in the garden in some respects, but with the bare bones of the garden now fully revealed it is the perfect time to take action on unsatisfactory plants, and to plan new landscaping projects or planting. While executing said plans may involve a bit of ducking and diving around the weather, it will mean all the action is done in time to really reap the benefits next year. Start by taking a long, hard look at your garden. As a nation we’re very bad at getting rid of plants that don’t make the grade and the longer you’ve lived with something, the harder it is to get rid of it. But if you’ve never liked, for example, that huge space-gobbling Forsythia that only looks good for two or three weeks a year, harden your heart and replace it with something delightful, like a Daphne or Mexican orange blossom (Choisya) with handsome evergreen foliage and long-lasting, deliciously fragrant blooms; camellias with blooms that last for

months; or a tree such as a crab apple that gives months of interest with pretty spring blossom and long-lasting fruits. Sometimes plants can be given a new lease of life with selective or hard pruning – camellias, for example, can be pruned almost to the ground after flowering and will regrow. Do assess all plants individually though - there’s no hard and fast rule that applies to all. Then, move on to thinking about what you’d really like from your garden - maybe new features, such as an attractive seating area for sitting out, relaxing or entertaining; a pond or water feature; or a handsome front garden to welcome you home every day. This could be the time to treat yourself to something long desired, like a greenhouse or polytunnel for growing flowers and produce – far better (in my view) than superfluous ‘stuff’ for Christmas. Other possibilities to consider are lower-maintenance ways

of growing, such as raised beds to ease the pain of ageing backs or altering your garden layout to cut down on work. On another note, consider day-to-day needs such as storage, paths, where to hang the laundry and so on: our requirements tend to change over time and what worked well a few years ago may not apply now. Finding the best way forward is often a challenge and a bit of expert advice can pay dividends. If you’re stuck for gift ideas, I offer gift vouchers for garden advisory visits, which could solve your garden and Christmas problems in one go! www.suefishergardens.co.uk

Garden to visit Stone Lane Gardens to the east of Dartmoor, near Chagford, is a magical 5-acre woodland garden created by modern-day plant hunter, the late Kenneth Ashburner, and now world-

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GARDENING

Stone Lane Gardens

famous for National Collections of birch and alder trees. Through winter the beautiful bark in many colours is revealed in its full glory and looks absolutely magical, lit by the low angle of the sun at this time of year. Every summer the garden also hosts the annual Mythic Garden sculpture exhibition. Open daily, 10am-6pm. www. stonelanegardens.com

New Plants Growing your own fruit is immensely satisfying, especially this year when apples in particular have produced a magnificent crop. Columnar-growing apple trees can be grown in the smallest of spaces – even in large containers or as a hedge – and the ‘Malini’ varieties from Lubera are resistant to apple scab disease too. Ten varieties to choose from dark red ‘Black Beauty’ to yellow-green sharp-tasting ‘Greenlight’. www.lubera.co.uk

bought bare rooted when dormant: cheaper and often better plants too. • Wash, dry and store pots and seed trays to remove disease spores and lurking pests that are likely to spell death for next year’s seedlings.

Garden problems Cold, wet weather and winter gales can wreak havoc in the garden. Often frosts don’t arrive until December which can lull us into a false sense of security, so if you haven’t moved tender plants under

cover, do so without delay. Containergrown plants remaining outside are best moved to a sheltered spot – against house walls is ideal – and grouped together which helps prevents roots freezing in severe weather. Good drainage is vital for pots as waterlogged roots can literally ‘drown’, so either stand on a surface such as gravel or raise just off the ground. Stake newly planted trees and shrubs and check regularly to make sure ties aren’t rubbing and damaging stems. Sue Fisher

Sue Fisher GARDEN DESIGNER & HORTICULTURAL SPECIALIST

Inspirational ideas to transform your garden Advisory visits • Planting plans Complete designs tel: 01822 841895 • email: suefisher@talktalk.net www.suefishergardens.co.uk

Seasonal jobs • C lean garden furniture before storing under cover. •G ive wildflower meadows a final cut to stay tidy over winter, then send the mower for servicing in plenty of time. • P ut up bird boxes: they’ll be used as roosts, and birds like plenty of time to inspect next year’s nest sites.

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FARMING NEWS

Ups and downs All the cattle are now in the barns for winter and this autumn has been pretty rough, with the wet weather forcing us to bring cattle in earlier than we’d like, although a good harvest means we should have feed to see us through the winter. We never enjoy the cows coming in, as we are then bound to a tractor, with the routine daily feeding and mucking out to deal with! The up-side is our routine settles down and the dark nights mean we don’t work such long hours. I have been a director of Dartmoor Farmers since its start 12 years ago. We set out to add value and help deliver a more sustainable future for farming on Dartmoor, linking the landscape and environment these grazing animals help to deliver. This gives us a fantastic platform to sell sustainable Dartmoor beef and lamb to the thousands of customers who either live or visit the moor every year. Since inception we have been growing our business; it mainly focused on selling beef to local outlets on and around Dartmoor, but we had our first big breakthrough last year and started trading lamb through Morrisons, selling 5000 Dartmoor lambs through 10 stores. This year we have grown that to 42 stores in the south west and are aiming for over 10,000 lambs this season. Needless to say it’s going very well and despite being a major supermarket and effectively the ‘big bad wolf’ in some farmer’s eyes, Morrisons has been very fair to deal with in my experience; it is really reassuring and empowering to be part of the conversation on lamb prices, rather than just price-takers. In early autumn we were also very pleased to be nominated for the British farming awards - Sheep innovator of the year 2019 - for the work we have done to collectively promote Dartmoor lamb through Morrisons. So a few weeks later off we go to the bright lights of Birmingham to the awards dinner - massive sit-down affair. Us

Dartmoor boys and girls were loving the razzmatazz of the big event and just enjoying being nominated. Vernon Kay presented the evening and did a great job. It came to our category and we expected to be clapping the success of another more worthy sheep innovator, when Vernon announced we had won! Needless to say, we were very happy and humbled to receive the award and had a long and lively evening from that point on! My only disappointment was that Vernon was far too tall and good looking to be photographed with, although Gemma enjoyed chasing him out of the room to get a selfie! That was a pretty special Thursday night and a once-in-a-lifetime award. We left on a real high but on our return, my elderly sheepdog, who at 15 years old has been failing, sadly passed away two days later. Meg was a dog of a lifetime; I had her as a pup and trained her myself. She was a beautiful black and white short-coated collie who was always with

me. If you’ve seen me on my quad or land rover over the past 15 years you will have probably missed my shadow, Meg waiting silently to spring into action at a whistle or command. She was a very quiet, good-natured dog, not one for fuss but she just loved to work. Even the week before she passed away, she would follow me around the yard and help the new young pretenders herd the sheep. In her prime she could cope with almost any type of stock, cattle or sheep, from gathering on the open commons and working across the valley, to close quarters catching a ewe during lambing - she had it all. She was described by Gemma as the other woman in my life! If Gem was sitting on the quad with me, Meg would do her best to lean on Gem and push her off! She will be greatly missed and never forgotten. So, as those Irish fellas sang, ‘Life is a rollercoaster’, and that week certainly was! Mat Cole, Greenwell Farm

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NATURALIST

A celebration of trees in winter Shorn of their crowning glory, our larger deciduous trees stand out starkly in the landscape, but there is still plenty to fascinate us in terms of their massive bulk, their architectural structure and their contribution to the local ecology. Each tree has its own character whether fully clothed in foliage or naked in winter, and each species can be recognised in silhouette. Ash trees stand tall and upright with straight rigid twigs, oaks seem to spread out to cover as much ground as possible, their older branches showing a characteristic gnarled appearance, while beeches bear a mass of finer more feathery twigs. Many of the finest individuals were planted in the parkland settings of 18th and 19th century estates and the urban public parks of the Victorian era, although some of these are now reaching the end of their natural lives. We can only hope that the trees which are being planted now with social well-being and climate change in mind, will survive to be appreciated for similar lengths of time. The life of trees below the surface of the soil is less well known and its importance less appreciated. We get a glimpse into this underworld when one of these giants finally submits to the wind and keels over in its entirety. The pit which this creates is often less than a metre in depth and it is surprising how small the roots are compared with the size of the trunk above ground. The root system spreads out, rather than downwards, over a large area in order to support the mass above, and in a woodland the root systems of adjacent trees will inevitably intertwine. The interrelationship between them may indeed be even more subtle thanks to the mycorrhizal fungal network that surrounds and penetrates the roots. These fungi, now available for gardeners to encourage the growth of newly planted perennials and shrubs, live in a relationship of mutual benefit or symbiosis with trees, passing on minerals and water from the soil in exchange for organic materials (the products of photosynthesis) from the tree. Potentially this network may also provide a means of communication between trees, for example warning of

an imminent threat of attack by insect pests. This hypothesis is just gaining acceptance and is explored in ‘The Hidden Life of Trees’ by Peter Wohlleben. The ecological benefits of a tree continue through its senescence and even after it is technically ‘dead’. Insect larvae bore through the bark to reach the highly nutritious sapwood and their tunnels can easily be seen under the bark and into the timber of fallen branches. Two species which are a menace in the wood within our buildings, woodworm and death watch beetle, in the wild provide a feast for birds such as woodpeckers which are particularly adept at prising them out. Surprisingly trees and these insects can co-exist for quite a long time, until eventually fungi and other microrganisms enter via holes or any broken branches and begin the slow process of decay. Even the lignified heartwood eventually succumbs leaving the trunk hollow, but providing an ideal home for both birds and mammals (as appreciated by viewers of BBC TV’s Springwatch). Ideally these decaying giants should be left to fall naturally and add their bulk to the decaying leaf litter on the woodland floor. In many parts of the country entire ancient woodlands are currently under threat despite their ecological significance and the affection of the local population. The trees and the soil below, enriched on an annual basis as the fallen leaves decompose, tied together in a network of roots and microorganisms, form a unique ecosystem which cannot simply be immediately re-created by a compensatory new planting scheme. It takes many years for these complex ecosystems to become established, so it is crucial to protect and conserve our existing woodlands as well as planting new ones. Pete Mayston

COMMUNITY NEWS

Extension for Postbridge Visitor Centre A turf cutting ceremony marked the start of building work at Postbridge Visitor Centre for a project which seeks to enhance visitor experience and tell the fascinating story of Dartmoor’s Bronze Age past in more detail. Pamela Woods, chair of Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: “Dartmoor is the most important area for Bronze Age archaeology in Western Europe. The Postbridge extension gives us a wonderful opportunity to help people understand this beautiful area’s history and connect with the people who lived and worked here thousands of years ago.” DNPA successfully secured £500,000 in funding from the Rural Development Programme for England to fund the building works which will last 32 weeks with the centre due to reopen in July 2020. The large, single-storey extension will provide a new fully accessible exhibition space with interactive displays,

part of which chronicle the archaeological story of the Bronze Age finds at Whitehorse Hill. Excavations in 2011 revealed a grave containing the cremated remains of a young adult and other items which had been placed in the cist in the early Bronze Age. The objects showed that, far from being isolated, the community had contacts with a wider world and were able to acquire materials such as amber from as far away as the Baltic.

Moor Otters return in 2020 Dartmoor National Park is bringing the hugely successful Moor Otters arts trail back in 2020. From May to October visitors can expect to see over 80 sculptures, each individually designed and decorated by artists and local talent, dotted across Dartmoor and surrounding areas. This time, the otters will each be accompanied by their cub and there’ll be some special surprises and competitions too. With the locations spread across the moor and further afield people will be able to find, learn about and interact with the sculptures. People will also be encouraged to explore the trails either by walking, cycling, running or using public transport. Otter spotters can share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #MoorOtters. Schools will be given mini sculptures to create their own artwork for display at Princetown Visitor Centre later in summer. They can then keep their mini otter or auction it to

raise funds for the school. In 2017, the first Moor Otters raised an incredible £60,000 for Dartmoor conservation and education projects, including the Junior Rangers programme, non-native plant control and management and footpath repairs. The sculptures have been specially commissioned and created by Jolly Roger Ltd in Bovey Tracey. At the end of next summer all Moor Otters will be gathered together and exhibited as a collection before 20 become ‘Golden Moor Otters’ and auctioned off to raise funds for Donate for Dartmoor.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Yel-Lit Litter is a problem up and down the country, but it affects the West Country massively, with such large areas of open moorland, filled with wonderful wild animals roaming the moors. Sadly, the countryside is too often uncared for by people visiting for walks, or just driving through, leaving litter in their tracks for animals to eat or get trapped in – and ruining the beauty of the area in which we live. That is why I decided to start Yel-Lit. We not only cover the moorland but also the other areas in and around Yelverton. We meet at 10am on the final Sunday of every month in the bay on Yelverton aerodrome closest to the roundabout. We are kindly supported by Tidy Tavi organisers, Jeff Moody and Steve

Hipsey, who allow us to borrow their equipment each month and have offered full support in getting the group set up. All volunteers are welcome, old, young, fully-able or with additional needs. We are grateful for any help at all whether it is for 10 minutes or the full 2 hours. We also welcome large groups to join

us - a group of brownies from Plymouth are helping out so they can collect their conservation badge. Our next litter pick will be on 25th January - rain or shine. To keep up to date with our future litter picks please like our facebook page, or email sophiab-wood@hotmail.co.uk if you plan to bring a group along.

Can you help Devon be ‘net-zero’? The top team of environmental experts who have been charged with ensuring that Devon becomes a net-zero county want your ideas on how to reduce carbon emissions as quickly as possible. The Net-Zero Task Force has been appointed by the Devon Climate Emergency Response Group – made up of Devon’s councils, emergency services and business groups - to deliver the Devon Carbon Plan. The plan will lay out in stark terms what every resident,

organisation and business needs to do to reduce emissions and help safeguard the planet for the next generation. This call for evidence is open to everybody, and submissions can be made through devonclimateemergency. org.uk until spring 2020; every submission will be reviewed by the task force and will feed into the different stages of the process of creating the Carbon Plan. A themed series of hearings also started in November and

continues into December, with each hearing focusing on the different parts of our society that produce most of the emissions, like transport for instance. The hearings will seek to understand what needs to happen to achieve rapid decarbonisation in Devon. The task force will then present a series of ‘options’ to a citizen’s assembly - and the deliberations of the citizen’s assembly will lead to the draft Devon Carbon Plan, due for publication next spring.

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Garden Waste Service The Garden waste service does not operate from 30 December – 3 January.

Don’t forget you can recycle these festive items FRUIT

plastic packaging

metal packaging

plastic bottles lids on

drinks cans

plastic pots, tubs and trays

food tins empty aerosols foil

Wash and squash plastic bottles.

No cling lm, plastic bags or black plastic of any kind

If you subscribe to this service, you can place your real Christmas tree out for collection alongside your green sacks on your collection day between 6 – 24 January.

Reusable white sack

FISH

No crisp packets and sweet wrappers

Please rinse your recycling. Clean recycling only. Please use your recycle boxes for other recyclable material.

West Devon www.westdevon.gov.uk

West Devon Borough Council

 Plastic food trays  Mince pie metal cases  Plastic sweet tubs

Box 1    

Real Christmas trees can also be taken to the your local recycling centre.

Catalogues Juice cartons Glass bottles Greetings cards*

Box 2  Cardboard delivery boxes  Cardboard gift boxes  Clothes * We can’t recycle cards containing glitter or plastic nor any wrapping paper

Recycle all your food waste this Christmas! It’s now even easier as you can line your caddy with any bag or liner, such as salad bags, bread bags, cereal bags or carrier bags.

Collection Day Changes Collection day

New collection day

Collection day

New collection day

Wed 25 December

Fri 27 December

Tue 31 December

Thur 2 January

Thur 26 December

Sat 28 December

Wed 1 January

Fri 3 January

Fri 27 December

Mon 30 December

Thur 2 January

Sat 4 January

Mon 30 December

Tue 31 December

Fri 3 January

Mon 6 January

All collections will run one day late on the week beginning 6 January

Please put your waste out before 7.30am on your collection day

www.westdevon.gov.uk 22

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Overeaters Anonymous Are you planning to start a New Year diet? Do you feel guilty for over-eating at Christmas? Have you thought about skipping meals or over-exercising to lose weight? Is this part of a regular pattern of behaviour for you? Would you like a better relationship with food that doesn’t involve a cycle of overindulgence followed by dieting? The Tavistock group of Overeaters Anonymous (OA) is a small, friendly, non-judgemental and welcoming bunch of people who have experienced a variety of different problems with food. We offer acceptance and support with any and all problematic food behaviours. The Tavistock group meets on Monday evenings at Trident House, 2 Taylor Square, between 7.30pm and 8.30pm. OA is not just about weight loss, weight gain or maintenance, obesity or diets. The OA programme offers physical, emotional and spiritual recovery for those who suffer from the problem of compulsive eating. This could include: obsession with body weight, size and shape; eating binges or grazing; preoccupation with diets; starving; laxative or diuretic abuse; excessive exercise; inducing vomiting after eating; use of diet

pills and other medical interventions to control weight; inability to stop eating certain foods after taking the first bite and a constant preoccupation with food. Members find recovery by following a programme patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous, so that yoyo dieting becomes a thing of the past and they no longer wish to return to eating compulsively. In OA, there are people who are morbidly obese, extremely or moderately overweight, of average weight or underweight; those still maintaining periodic control over their eating behaviour, or totally unable to control their compulsive eating. The only requirement for membership in OA is a desire to stop eating compulsively. Please come along to the Tavistock OA meeting if you’d like to learn more or log onto www.oagb.org.uk or telephone 07000 784985.

Plant more trees Devon County Council is calling on local councils to join a tree planting initiative and help plant trees on town and parishowned land across Devon, reducing the impact of Ash dieback and helping tackle the climate emergency. The 3:2:1 tree planting rule, promoted by the Devon Ash Dieback Resilience Forum, aims to plant at least three new trees for every large one lost to Ash dieback, two for every medium-sized one, and one for each small one. The Woodland Trust is also offering free tree packs for schools and communities. Find out more at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk or go to devonashdieback.org.uk for advice on Ash dieback.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

COMMUNITY NEWS

The Dartmoor Bed Company opens new flagship store West Devon-based The Dartmoor Bed Company continues its business expansion with the opening of a new flagship store in Topsham this December. Manager Stuart Page, said: “This is the culmination of a great deal of hard work and unprecedented demand for our handmade mattresses.” In 2017, celebrity chef Michael Caine installed beds from The Dartmoor Bed Company into all the bedrooms at Lympstone Manor, his luxury, five-star, country house hotel. Bovey Castle, a leading five-star Dartmoor hotel, is similarly undertaking to install the company’s beds in all of its bedrooms. The presidential suite at the Mandarin Oriental in Hyde Park now also has a bespoke handmade bed created by The Dartmoor Bed Company. The new flagship store will be situated opposite Darts Farm and next to Sapphire Spaces in Topsham, where the new showroom will complement the existing showroom at Yelverton, and the larger space will enable the company to

display its full range of handmade beds, alongside bespoke locally-made bedroom furniture. The store will also feature beautiful interior items by Lewis Shepherd from The Dartmoor Shepherd. Stuart commented: “All our beds are hand-crafted, pocket sprung and filled with the finest certified Dartmoor wool. They are all made to order and we offer a unique 30-day tension trial. Last minute touches are being made to the new store and we will have a final opening date soon.”

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EDUCATION

Failure is the path to success Failure is not a word that springs to mind in connection with Lee Spencer, the Royal Marine commando who completed tours of Northern Ireland and Iraq, as well as three tours of Afghanistan, often working in a covert role, before re-inventing himself after losing his right leg in 2014. As The Rowing Marine he was part of the first disabled crew to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a rowing boat, completing 3,000 miles in February 2016; and earlier this year he took the world record for rowing the Atlantic solo from Europe to South America, beating the able-bodied record by 36 days. Breaking three Guinness World Records at once, he received a congratulatory call from Prince Harry, and hit the national news in 27 countries. And yet the importance of failing is exactly what Lee has been talking about to school pupils for the last couple of years, highlighting the points in his life where overcoming failure played a significant factor in finally achieving success. His inspirational talk stems back to his own childhood, when he left school with minimal qualifications and a low opinion of his academic ability. He was turned down at his first attempt at selection for the Royal Marines; he initially felt he had failed at life following the freak accident on the M3 when he stopped to help at a car crash and ended up losing his leg; he put off starting his solo Atlantic crossing for a year when his mother

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died while he struggled to summon the mental strength required for such an epic feat. He says there are two tricks to life: when you fail you need to pick yourself up - and then you need to have another go. Lee’s talk encompasses his life in the Royal Marines, how his accident changed his life and the story of his rowing challenges, enhanced by photos and video footage, as well as moments of drama and humorous anecdotes - but above all it covers how he rose to the challenge of overcoming the difficulties and ordeals he faced. He had always defined himself by what he did in his career in the Royal Marines and when that was taken away from him, he felt an overwhelming need to redefine himself. Rowing has changed his life as much as losing a leg, and helped him realise he is still the same person as before. He encourages his audience to dream and create a personal goal, something ambitious that they probably can’t pull off at the first attempt – he says: “Dare to dream and if you don’t fail, you’re not dreaming hard enough!” If you would like to find out more about Lee’s work as a motivational speaker, go to www.leespencer.co.uk

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EDUCATION

Lady Modiford’s School 300 Years of Growth This year, Lady Modiford’s School in Walkhampton has been celebrating its tercentenary with a range of events, which commenced in January with digging up the time capsule buried 25 years ago in 1994. Everything was thankfully still dry and it was fascinating for the present pupils to see what the pupils of the past had considered important enough to bury for the future generation to see, including school uniforms, magazines, drawings, photos and letters. The children were also treated to a visit from Lady Modiford herself! She told the children about life in the 17th century and her reasons for founding the school: “…for the teaching of (20 poor) boys in the space of four years to read, write and cast accounts, and for instructing them in the Church of England catechism…” The girls were disappointed to learn that only boys were in the initial intakes!

In March every child in the school was given a small packet of sunflower seeds to grow, as was each home in the village. The community certainly took up the challenge and through the summer the village displayed a bright sunflower welcome!

In June the school held its Walkhampton 300 Celebration Tea Party where the children entertained, with singing and country dancing, before the tea party got underway in the sunshine, attended by recent and not so recent former pupils, and offering an opportunity to enjoy a visit down memory lane with an exhibition of photos and memorabilia from the past. In July the children performed the musical play ‘The Vicar’s Cross’ which had been especially written for the school by Andrew Wilson in recognition of 300 years. One of the songs entitled ‘The School Song’ has become a school favourite and will, no doubt, continue to be sung for years to come. It was also during July that the school underwent an Ofsted inspection and was deemed ‘good’ in all aspects. On 9th September, the actual date the school was founded, the Bishop of Exeter, Right Revd. Robert Atwell, officiated at a special celebration service in St Mary’s Church as 300 years of education and nurturing were recognised. The School 300 Exhibition was displayed at the school, St Mary’s Church and at the annual Walkhampton Arts and Crafts’ Exhibition, before the 300 celebrations culminated on Thursday 14th November, when the time capsule with the items from 1994, together with additional items from 2019, was re-buried in the school grounds. It has been a busy, yet very fruitful year and Lady Modiford’s School now looks forward to moving on to its 301st year! Corinne Shutt The 300 Committee

EXPLORE THE WORLD & SHOOT THE STARS Documentary Photographer @harryborden After studying Photography with us, Harry’s lens has captured figures ranging from the Spice Girls to Jeff Goldblum and Giorgio Armani. OPEN DAYS 04 JAN / 08 FEB / 13 JUN plymouthart.ac.uk/apply

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KIDS WHAT’S ON

BID TAVISTOCK DICKENSIAN EVENING & LANTERN PARADE Friday 6 December Come along for our first Dickensian Lantern Parade at 5pm and then enjoy a host of entertainment including fire performers, a Punch & Judy show, steam engines, Morris dancers, Dan The Hat, Father Christmas and real reindeer.

BUCKLAND ABBEY STORYTIME WITH OLDE FATHER CHRISTMAS Every Saturday and Sunday, 1-22 December. Timed tickets between 12 noon-4pm Come and meet Olde Father Christmas in the Great Hall. He will be dressed in traditional green telling magical festive stories of Christmases gone by. Each child will be gifted a Buckland Abbey Christmas keepsake. Storytime lasts for approximately 30 minutes. £6.50 1 child + 1 adult / £4 additional adult. Book online at nationaltrust.org.uk/bucklandabbey CHRISTMAS FAMILY TRAIL Daily in December, 10am-4pm Wrap up warm and head out on the estate to follow the Christmas star constellation family trail. Crack the clues to collect your star sticker. £1 per trail sheet. Normal admission applies.

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FAMILY CHRISTMAS CRAFTS Every Saturday and Sunday, 1-29 December, 11.30am-3pm Join Buckland Abbey’s Christmas craft

Preschool for 2-4 year olds • 9am-1pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 9am-3pm Tuesday & Friday - Term time only

Buckland Monachorum Village Hall

Contact Jane Beard on 01822 853634

volunteers to create a special Christmas keepsake to take home. Free of charge. Normal admission applies.

COTEHELE A VICTORIAN FAMILY CHRISTMAS AT COTEHELE MILL Dec weekends (Fri-Sun) and daily 20 Dec - 5 Jan 2020 (except 25 & 26 Dec), 11am-3pm Discover how families like the Victorian Langsfords celebrated Christmas in the decorated Mill. There’s lots of hands on fun for children, with crafts, toys and dressing up and a pop-up café in the Bakery too. MOTHER AND FATHER CHRISTMAS AT COTEHELE MILL Saturday and Sunday 14, 15, 21 & 22 December, 11.30am-2.30pm Come along and visit Mother and Father Christmas as they stop off at Cotehele on their way to deliver presents around the world. No need to book, £3 per child, includes gift.

ROSEMOOR

MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS SANTA EXPERIENCE Saturday 21 to Tuesday 24 December Meet Father Christmas at RHS Garden Rosemoor for a festive story-telling session in his magical workshop theatre - sing a Christmas song with the elves, make a beautiful decoration for their Christmas tree, prepare reindeer food and meet some of Santa’s reindeer.

STERTS THE CHRISTMASSY CHRISTMAS SHOW Monday 23 December Squashbox Theatre’s show is a celebration of everything Christmassy, from fir trees, fairy lights, sleigh bells and snowflakes to crackers, carols, presents and puddings! Sterts Theatre, Upton Cross at 2pm and 4pm. Tickets £6: book online at www. sterts.co.uk.

bucklandbeehive@hotmail.com www.bucklandbeehive.com

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

STILTSKIN THEATRE THE CURIOUS TALE OF JACK FROST Saturday 7 to Tuesday 24 December, various times Someone has been painting the landscape with beautiful patterns, across the windows of the houses, upon the leaves of the trees, as well as nipping the nose of the milkman and the toes of the post lady. Jack Frost has been, but who is Jack Frost? Under 5’s shows and family shows available. www.stiltskin.org.uk

THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER Until Saturday 18 January Sam Lacey makes shoes that are out of this world but his shoe-making business is a disaster! This hilarious re-telling of the muchloved classic tale in The Drum, from the inescapably inventive Stuff and Nonsense is a total delight for all the family, full of wit, charm and surprising puppetry. theatreroyal.com CINDERELLA 20 December to 18 January Cinderella features star casting, laughout-loud comedy, jaw-dropping special effects, stunning song and dance, and plenty of boos and hisses as the ultimate pantomime is brought magically to life. Leading our Cinderella cast is the king of comedy himself, Brian Conley! It’s going to be a BALL!

PLYM VALLEY RAILWAY THE NORTH POLE EXPRESS 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22 December The Plym Valley Railway track runs from Marsh Mills to Plym Bridge, and is part of the ex-Great Western branch line from Plymouth to Tavistock which has now been restored. In 2018 The North Pole Express took over 4,500 people to the North Pole and this year, it’s going to be even bigger. Come and enjoy one of the many trips to the Arctic this December, all hauled by steam engine. Tickets are available from £8, at plymrail.co.uk

Handmade artisan soap selection £10 www.kenderdine.co.uk Tavistock Pannier Market.

Award-Winning Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask £10 with Lindt chocolates

a o u y s i h e w W

Forever Living shop.foreverliving.com

a s s m i t h r C y Merr and some stress-free shopping with our wonderful local gift guide

Scarf £25 Red Leather bag £75 ² OneFourTwoLifestyleAccessories

Grey Heart Carved Wall Panel £62 ² OneFourTwoLifestyleAccessories

Segway Adveture Voucher £-various Cann Woods/Go Segway Exeter www.segwayvouchers.co.uk

6 ort Necklace £2

Earrings £13 Sh

styleAccessories

² OneFourTwoLife

Pencil Box & 12 Coloured pe ncils, all personalis ed £8 Pens & Moor, 21

West St PL19 8A

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CHRISTMAS SERVICES

SUNDAY 8 DECEMBER 4:00pm Christingle Service at St Eustachius’ Parish Church, Tavistock 4:30 pm Nativity Festival Carols at St John’s Church, Horrabridge

TUESDAY 10 DECEMBER

09:15am Morning Worship at Church of The Holy Spirit, Milton Combe 9.30am Holy Communion at Holy Trinity, Bere Alston 10:30am Holy Communion St Andrew’s Church, Buckland Monachorum

2:00pm Christingle service at St Mary’s Church, Walkhampton

10:30am Family Carol Service at United Church, Bere Alston

6:00pm ‘Christmas Puddings and Praise’ - various desserts and carols at the Community Centre, Princetown

11.00am Holy Communion at St Andrew’s Church, Bere Ferrers

WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER

3:00pm Children’s Crib Service at Church of The Holy Spirit, Milton Combe

2:00pm Christingle service at St Peter’s Church, Meavy

4:00pm Carols by Candlelight at St Leonards Church, Sheepstor

6:00pm Christingle service at St John’s Church, Horrabridge

6:00pm Christmas Carol Service at St Eustachius’ Parish Church, Tavistock

FRIDAY 13 DECEMBER

6.00pm Informal Carol Service at St Andrew’s Church, Bere Ferrers

6:00pm ‘Carols Around the Tree’ – Princetown community carol singing, starting at Christmas Tree at Visitor Centre, then Venn House, then Prince of Wales

6:30pm Carols by Candlelight at St Andrew’s Church, Buckland Monachorum 7:00pm Carols by Candlelight at United Church, Bere Alston

SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER

TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER

10:30am Carol Service at Rock Methodist Church, Yelverton

2.30pm Nativity Service at St Andrew’s Church, Bere Ferrers

6:00pm Carols at St Paul’s Church, Yelverton

4.00pm Nativity Service at St Andrew’s Church, Bere Ferrers

MONDAY 16 DECEMBER

4:00pm All-age Christingle at St Andrew’s Church, Buckland Monachorum

6:00pm - Prison Carol Service at St Michael and All Angels, Princetown

TUESDAY 17 DECEMBER 7:00pm Carols by Candlelight at United Church, Bere Alston

WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER 6.00pm Christingle at Holy Trinity, Bere Alston 7.15pm Christmas Extravaganza at St Mary’s Church, Sampford Spiney

4:00pm & 6:00pm Crib Service at St Eustachius’ Parish Church, Tavistock 4:00pm Mission Community Crib Service at St Paul’s Church, Yelverton 5:00pm Carol Service at St John’s Church, Horrabridge 11:00pm Midnight Mass at St Paul’s Church, Yelverton 11:00pm Midnight Mass at St John’s Church, Horrabridge

THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER

11:30pm Midnight Mass at St Eustachius’ Parish Church, Tavistock

4:00pm Carols by Candlelight at St Peter’s Church, Meavy

11:30pm Midnight Holy Communion at St Andrew’s Church, Buckland Monachorum

SUNDAY 22 DECEMBER

Church, Bere Ferrers 11:30pm Midnight Communion at the Community Centre, Princetown

WEDNESDAY 25 DECEMBER 8:00am BCP Holy Communion at St Paul’s Church, Yelverton 9.15am Service of the Word at St Paul’s Church, Yelverton 9.15am BCP Holy Communion at St Mary’s Church, Sampford Spiney 9:15am Family Communion at Church of The Holy Spirit, Milton Combe 9:30am Christmas Morning Service at St Eustachius’ Parish Church, Tavistock 9:30am Christmas Day Celebration at United Church, Bere Alston 9:30am Communion & Carols at Holy Trinity, Bere Alston 9.30am Order 1 at St Mary’s Church, Walkhampton 10:00am Christmas Service at Rock Methodist Church, Yelverton 10.30am Order 1 at St Peter’s Church, Meavy 10:30am Family Communion at St Andrew’s Church, Buckland Monachorum 11:00am Order 2 at St Leonards Church, Sheepstor

SUNDAY 29 DECEMBER 3:00pm Carols at St Mary’s Church, Sampford Spiney

SUNDAY 5 JANUARY 9:45am Epiphany Service at St Eustachius’ Parish Church, Tavistock

11.30pm Midnight Mass at St Andrew’s

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Tavistock’s main venue for Films, Theatre, Live Music and Live Broadcasts

Welcome to...

FILMS.......................... wharF gallery..... THE WARRIOR QUEEN OF JHANSI

A tale of women’s empowerment, The Warrior Queen of Jhansi tells the true story of Lakshmibai, the historic Queen of Jhansi who fiercely led her army against the British East India Company in the infamous mutiny of 1857.

Fri 29th Nov – Thurs 5 Dec

THEATRE.................... PSYCHIC SALLY

JOAN MONCRIEFFE. B.A PAINTINGS

Joan Moncrieffe is an East Devon artist / design maker. Born in Leamington Spa, she spent time pattern making and drawing from an early age. Later graduating with a degree in 3-dimensional design she went onto having her illustrative work published and continued to work to commission, exhibiting in variuos location under her birth name Joan Prowse. Now based in Exmouth she continues to exhibit her work regularly and enjoys giving talks and holding workshops.

Mon 2nd December - Fri 10th January

Following her gripping appearance on Celebrity Big Brother, with a triumphant Sally reaching the final five, the nation’s favourite Psychic and forerunner in the Psychic world is back on tour with her all new show “10 Years and Counting”

Tues 25th February

live broadcasts......................................... LE CORSAIRE BOLSHOI

ANDRÉ RIEU: 70 YEARS YOUNG

Mon 25th November

Sun 5th January

PRESENT LAUGHTER BY NOËL COWARD

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY

Matthew Warchus directs Andrew Scott (BBC’s Sherlock, Fleabag) in Noël Coward’s provocative comedy Present Laughter.

Journey with The Royal Ballet to an enchanted world of princesses, fairy godmothers and magical spells in this landmark production of Petipa’s classic ballet, to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music.

Thurs 28th November

Thurs 16th January

COPPÉLIA

LA BOHÈME THE ROYAL OPERA

Tues 10th December

Wed 29th January

On the bazaar square of Andrinopolis, the Pacha is struck by the beauty of Medora and tries to buy her, but the lovely young woman is not for sale

A classic returns to The Royal Ballet with Ninette de Valois’ charming and funny ballet of love, mischief and mechanical dolls.

NUTCRACKER

Recorded in 2016, this special performance celebrated Peter Wright’s 90th birthday, and will be broadcast with new features. Additional screenings in selected cinemas throughout December.

Tues 17th December

André Rieu is celebrating a landmark birthday and is inviting cinema audiences all over the world to his party!

Puccini’s music and Richard Jones’s production capture the joy and heartache of young love in Paris.

For full details and to book events visit our website:

tavistockwharf.com

or call Tavistock Wharf Box Office

01822 611166

² TAVISTOCKWHARF µ tavistockwharfofficial

Please note: check our website or ring our box office on 01822 611166 to check dates and times of screening. Thank you.

MUSIC..................................... LIMEHOUSE LIZZY Fri 29th November

BJORN BELIEF Sat 30th November

Renowned for its explosive action packed performance, Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Thin Lizzy alive.

Quality tribute performance at its best, Bjorn Belief recreates the magic that was seventies supergroup Abba

LAND OF THE GIANTS Thurs 12th December

JOEY THE LIPS Fri 13th December

DESPERADO Sat 14th December

CATS IN SPACE Sun 15th December

They bring to the stage and explosive raise the roof set of funky sounds, an exceptional band in every way.

Effervescent front man Jonny Finnis joined the band in 2018 and this year is joined by storming new vocalist Sami-Jane Slater

Portraying the stunning music of The Eagles, hear those wonderful hits again from Take it Easy, Lyin’ Eyes to Hotel California.

The new buzz band of the year, they are taking the music world by storm and receiving rave reviews everywhere they play.

SLADE UK Fri 20th December

RIVIERA DOGS Thurs 31st December

VOODOO ROOM Sat 11th Jan

I LOVE AMP Sat 25 th January

Once thought impossible, Slade UK recreate the power of a real Slade show with all the power of the original band. New Year Eve

See the New Year in at The Wharf with this stunning eighties cover band who perform a slick delivery of those most memorable hits that’ll have you dancing from the oft.

Purveyors of the finest sounds of Clapton, Cream and Hendrix, they are a perfect band to kick off our 2020 programme.

Get ready to sing at the top of your lungs to the anthems of your youth! They’ll be partying like it’s 1999… and 98, and 97 and ’96.. You get the idea.

BON GIOVI Sat 1st February

ROD AND THE FACEZ Fri 7th February

KICK UP THE 80S Sat 8th February

Without doubt the best Bon Jovi tribute out there, the attention to detail is incredible, the band recreates and captures Bon Jovi in every possible way.

Garry Peace as Rod Stewart is one of the recognisable Rod tributes on the circuit, this is a must for every fan of Rod and the Faces!

Fancy dress optional but many do – this is a fun filled show of many costume changes and a eclectic mix of singalong 80s hits.

PETE WAY BAND Fri 6th December

WHOLE LOTTA LED Sat 7th December

Best known for being part of This superb band return to The legendary rock band UFO Pete Wharf with their critically acclaimed Way takes to the road with his new tribute to one of the greatest bands band and new album. of all time – Led Zeppelin.

ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE FOR ALL MUSIC EVENTS AT...

www.wegottickets.com

c tavistockwharf

Dates and times shown may vary, so please check our website for all up to date information: www.tavistockwharf.com

WHAT’S ON

REGULARS DECEMBER CHRISTMAS AT BUCKLAND ABBEY Willow star constellation & local choirs in the Great Barn, plus the abbey, every room every room in the abbey decorated with floral displays by NAFAS. Normal admission applies. 11am-4pm (last admission 3.30pm)

Festive Feasting For your office party, or just a relaxed festive treat with friends or family.

Festive Lunch £24 Festive Dinner £30 (parties of 10 or more)

Throughout December

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS 1-29 DECEMBER WEEKEND FAMILY CHRISTMAS CRAFTS Join Buckland Abbey’s Christmas craft volunteers to create a special Christmas keepsake to take home. Activity free of charge, normal admission applies. 11.30am-3pm UNTIL 5 JANUARY MERRY AND BRIGHT IN COTEHELE GALLERY The Christmas exhibition in Cotehele Gallery showcases colourful and festive work from local artists and craftspeople. 10-4pm UNTIL 5 JANUARY COTEHELE GARLANDS THROUGH TIME See the famous 60ft flower garland in Cotehele’s great hall. Learn about its history and discover how it’s created. Hear choirs most days in December (see website). 10.30am-4pm UNTIL 31 JANUARY WINTER SCULPTURE EXHIBITION RHS Rosemoor’s winter sculpture exhibition with an eclectic mix of exhibits in the garden. Most of the pieces are for sale. Daily 10am - 5pm, normal garden admission. UNTIL 4 JANUARY ROSEMOOR GLOW Hi-tech colour-changing lights, illuminating the trees, shrubs and sculptures. Last entry, plus last Simple Supper sitting 7.00pm. Normal garden admission includes entry to Glow. Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays until 8pm.

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER ART EXHIBITION Autumn/winter art exhibition at Wildwood Art Gallery, Horrabridge, PL20 7SP. Visit wildwoodartsdartmoor.co.uk for details or call 01822 258529. 1ST SATURDAY OF MONTH (7 & 14 DECEMBER) TAVI ARTS MARKET High quality, handmade wares from local artists. 9.00am to 4.00pm in Butchers’ Hall, Tavistock (free entry). WEDNESDAYS DARTMOOR BORDER MORRIS Every Wednesday through the winter Dartmoor Border Morris practice night at 8pm in Meavy Parish Hall is open to anyone www.dartmoorbordermorris.com LAST SUNDAY OF MONTH YEL-LIT Meet at 10am at Yelverton aerodrome in the bay closest to the roundabout. All volunteers are welcome - like our facebook page for details. FIRST SATURDAY OF MONTH BOOK GROUP AT PRINCETOWN LIBRARY We meet each month to discuss a book we have read, 10:30am-12noon. Details on Princetown Library Facebook Page. 2ND & 4TH WEDNESDAY OF MONTH CHARLESTON FRIENDSHIP CAFE 2.00-4.00pm in Buckland Monachorum Village Hall, supporting those living with dementia and their carers - join us for a cuppa and a chat. For information phone Margie (01822) 853152, Mandy 855347, or Trish 852163.

Time

www.bedford-hotel.co.uk 01822 613221 1 Plymouth Road, Tavistock, PL19 8BB

Regular House Cleans Letting and House Sales Cleaning Commercial Contracts

01822 853946 / 07531 085183 To promote your business to 13,800* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

THURSDAYS BUCKLAND MONOCHORUM CHAPEL ART GROUP A small painting group who enjoy experimenting with different mediums and painting styles. Thurs mornings, the Chapel, Buckland Monochorum. To join contact Anne Hughes at anne.s.hughes@ btinternet.com. EVERY WEDNESDAY THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH CREDIT UNION OFFICE Savers can obtain loans at 2% or less. Children can save too. All savers are covered by a free life insurance. Call in for more information or ring 01752 201329. 11.00am - 1.00pm in the Princetown Community Centre, Tavistock Road, Princetown, PL20 6QE

DECEMBER UNTIL 8 DECEMBER TAVISTOCK CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL St Eustachius’ displays up to 65 decorated trees. Refreshments available, daily 9:30am - 4.30pm with late night opening on 6 Dec. tavistockparishchurch.org.uk. UNTIL 8 DECEMBER NATIVITY SCENE FESTIVAL An ingenious range of original nativity scenes at St John’s, Horrabridge. Entry is by donation, refreshments available. 10.30am - 4.30pm daily (except Sunday 8 Dec: 12noon - 4.30pm, with carol service at 4.30pm). 3 DECEMBER PRINCETOWN HISTORY CLUB AGM and Social- 7:30pm at

Princetown Community Centre. www. princetownhistoryclub.weebly.com 5 DECEMBER C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP Are you retired? If so, why not come along for a friendly chat and a cuppa (or something stronger) at 12.30pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales Hotel, Princetown. Guest speaker Paul Rendell with his illustrated talk about ‘Old Dartmoor and Yelverton’. 5 DECEMBER YELVERTON LADIES OPEN GROUP Musical Evening with Stella Searson & Hannah Griffiths at 7:30pm at Yelverton Memorial Hall. 6 DECEMBER DICKENSIAN EVENING One of Tavistock’s favourite events with new lantern parade at 5pm, carol singing, fire performers, a Punch & Judy show, Dan The Hat, Morris dancers, stilt walkers, traditional Christmas rides, real reindeer, Father Christmas, a host of stalls and shops open late. 6 DECEMBER CINEMA MEAVY Toy Story 4 - Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the gang embark on a road trip. Certificate: U, £5 adult, admission £2 for children under 12 with an adult, licensed bar, 8pm at Meavy Parish Hall www.meavy.org.uk 7 DECEMBER CAVALIERS BOTTLE AUCTION Lots of bargains on offer & raising funds to support local causes. 7.30pm at The London Inn, Horrabridge.

Tavistock Tavistock Farmers Market

7 DECEMBER DARTMOOR BORDER MORRIS We’ll be performing at Bere Alston Victorian Christmas Fair, between 6pm & 8pm. 9 DECEMBER C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP LUNCH Join our coach trip for lunch at the White Thorne, Shaugh Prior. Booking essential at meeting on 5th Dec. Coach picks up from The Bedford Hotel, Tavistock, The

Festive Feasting Award-winning dining in the heart of Dartmoor – the perfect treat for the festive season.

Festive Lunch £25 (parties of 4 or more)

Festive Dinner £30 (parties of 10 or more)

1st – 23rd December excluding Sunday lunchtimes

Time

BEDFORD SQUARE • EVERY 2ND, 4TH & 5TH SATURDAY

CHRISTMAS MARKET - 21ST DECEMBER

IND US

FRESH FOOD, DRINK & PLANTS FROM LOCAL PRODUCERS www.tavistockfarmersmarket.com See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

www.twobridges.co.uk 01822 892300 Two Bridges, Dartmoor, PL20 6SW

WHAT’S ON

Prince of Wales Hotel, Princetown and Yelverton roundabout bus stop & anywhere in between. 9 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING & CREAM TEA Enjoy a cream tea and make a Christmas centrepiece in a workshop led by local florist H. Watts. 2:00pm at The Moorland Garden Hotel, £29.50 per person, call 01822 852245 to book.

10 - 15 DECEMBER YELVERTON CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL At least 24 beautifully decorated trees at Rock Methodist Church, 10.30am - 4.30pm on 10th to 14th Dec, 2pm – 4pm on 15th Dec. Free entry. 12 DECEMBER MOOR’S EDGE U3A Christmas Party at the Woolwell Centre 2:30pm 12 DECEMBER C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP CHRISTMAS LUNCH Join the Tamar/Tavy group for Christmas lunch at The Burrator Inn, Dousland

BERE FILM GROUP Bere Alston United ChUrCh, Fore street

1st & 3rd wednesdAy eACh month

1.15 REFRESHMENTS 1.45 FILM

£2 FOR REFRESHMENTS & TRANSPORT (IF NEEDED)

December 4th

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (Rami Malek)

December 18th

NATIVITY (Martin Freeman)

January 15th

YESTERDAY (PG) (Himesh Patel & Lily James)

(Judi Dench & Steve Coogan)

this project is supported by tASS. If you would like transport to and from the film tASS will try to provide it for you. contact tASS on either 01822 617525 or transport@tasstavistock.org.uk contact either 01822 841021 or 01822 841185 if you would like to know more.

13 DECEMBER PLYMOUTH AREA POLICE CHOIR CONCERT A seasonal concert at 7.30pm at Rock Methodist Church, Yelverton. Tickets £6 at the door. 14 DECEMBER DARTMOOR BORDER MORRIS Dartmoor Border Morris, The Old Town Twelves & top Cornish side Catseye Morris, at the Dolphin Hotel, Plymouth

14 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS IS HERE! Phoenix Chorale’s festive concert, with excerpts from Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten and Fantasia on Christmas Carols by Vaughan Williams. 7:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Plymouth, PL1 5EG. Adults: £11 at Eventbrite. co.uk or £12 on the door; under 16s free. plymouthphoenixchorale.org 14 DECEMBER HANDEL’S MESSIAH AT BUCKFAST ABBEY Handel’s great oratorio, Messiah, performed by the Abbey Choir at 7:30pm, tickets £10. 15 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 60 artisan exhibitors selling a selection of food and gifts, plus children’s workshops, gnome trail, Entertainingly Different, carousel, Santa Claus and choirs. Pannier Market, Butchers Hall and Bedford Square in Tavistock, 10:30am to 3:30pm, free entry. 15 DECEMBER THE TWO COUNTIES JAZZ BAND 7.30pm at the Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Plymouth. Tickets on the door £10 (members £8, full-time students £5) information 01752 721179, plymouthjazz-club.org.uk

CLEAN DOGS ARE HAPPY DOGS!

PHILOMENA (PG)

13 DECEMBER DEVONSHIRE ASSOCIATION Voyager Coffee, an illustrated talk by the chief blender, and a tasting of coffees from around the globe at 7.30pm at the Tavistock Parish Centre, Plymouth Road. For further details contact Barbara Edwards edwardsbobbarbara@btinternet. com, 01822 852 636 or visit www. devonassoc.org.uk

14 DECEMBER STANNARY BRASS BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT Concert of traditional, new and seasonal music plus carols with guests Vocal Harem. 7:30pm at St Eustachius’ Church; tickets: £7 adults; £2 U18s, available from Stags Estate Agents, Market St, Tavistock.

F rt OF dve % is a 10ith th

February 5th

Booking essential - reservation forms are available in The Burrator.

Barbican from midday.

30 years experience • all aspects of grooming all breeds • home service available • dog psychology diploma

9 King Street Tavistock PL19 0DS 07368 588902 To promote your business to 13,800* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

15, 21 & 22 DECEMBER FESTIVE CRAFTING WITH NATUREMAKE All ages welcome to this drop-in craft workshop at Buckland Abbey. No need to book, £4-£12 depending on choice of craft - cash payment only. 11am-4pm. 18 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA A traditional Christmas event with music, carols and usually a selection of terrible jokes to get you in the mood for Christmas at St Mary’s, Sampford Spiney at 7.15pm; mulled wine & mince pies. Tickets £5 (children go free) available from Helen Sims on 01822 853784. All profits go to St Mary’s Sampford Spiney church funds. 18- 23 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKETS Local artisan traders selling everything from gifts and decorations to festive food and drink. Butchers’ Hall, Tavistock 9.30am - 4.00pm, free entry. 19 DECEMBER C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP Join the Princetown group for grand draw and Christmas lunch at the Prince of Wales, Hotel. Booking essential - reservations and payment taken at meeting on 5th Dec. 19 DECEMBER YELVERTON LADIES OPEN GROUP Beetle Drive & Christmas Party (in the main hall) at 7:30pm at Yelverton Memorial Hall. 19 - 21 DECEMBER MOTHER GOOSE Mary Tavy’s pantomime tale of Mother Goose and Priscilla a magic goose. 7.30pm

abigail’s

daily at Coronation Hall, Mary Tavy, plus 2.30pm matinee on Sat. Tickets: £6 adults; £3 children - available from the Mary Tavy village shop. Enquiries call 01822 810112. 20 DECEMBER CENTREPIECE MAKING WORKSHOP Workshop starts at 9:30am at The Bedford Hotel and includes coffee & mince pies, all craft materials, expert tuition and a twocourse festive lunch. £42 per person, call 01822 613221 to book. 21 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS GARLAND MAKING Make a Christmas wreath using natural materials at Burrator Discovery Centre 10am-4pm. £7.00 per wreath (cash only). Support, materials and refreshments provided. Please book in advance on 01822 855700, heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk or at the centre. 21 DECEMBER LET’S WASSAIL Scare away the evil spirits from the Cotehele orchard to ensure a bumper crop for 2020. Fancy dress encouraged! 11.30am-12pm 21 DECEMBER MOUNT KELLY CHORAL SOCIETY Featuring The Christmas Oratorio by SaintSaens and Christmas favourites by Rutter, Chilcott, Cornelius, Lauridsen. 7.30pm at St Eustachius’ Church, Tavistock. Tickets £10 (free to U18s) from Book Stop, Tavistock, www.ticketsource.co.uk/mountkelly or on the door.

Tavistock Rotary organises a fantastic meal at Tavistock United Reformed Church; TASS can provide transport. Book by Wed 18th December on 01822 616507 or mrsceellis@hotmail.com. 26 DECEMBER DARTMOOR BORDER MORRIS Like any respectable Morris side, we’ll be performing at the Royal Oak Inn, Meavy on Boxing Day at midday and working off that Christmas pud!

AUCTIONEERS OF COLLECTORS’ ITEMS, STAMPS, COINS, MEDALS & TOYS

Rare vintage ﬁlm poster SOLD £5,200

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William Gibbons, Est: £500-700

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25 DECEMBER ROTARY CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

@ The Knightstone Tea Rooms Serving freshly prepared hot lunches and light bites, selection of home-made cakes, cream teas, high teas and Prosecco afternoon teas Roast dinners served every Sunday (booking recommended).

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS DINNERS from 1st - 23rd December, prices from £14.50 for 2 courses Also, on 21st and 22nd December we will again be recreating the 1943 RAF Harrowbeer Station Christmas Dinner. Period music will be played throughout both days and guests will be issued with Ration Cards to use for ordering meals. OPEN EVERY DAY BETWEEN 10AM AND 4PM DOG FRIENDLY AREA • FULLY LICENSED • FREE WIFI

Crapstone R0ad, Yelverton PL20 6BT

01822 853386/07447744427 • modwan@sky.com

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Emerald & Diamond Earrings, Est: £1,000-1,200

Valuations for auction, probate and insurance purposes

Live Internet bidding

For professional advice please call (01752) 721199 email: enquiries@eldreds.net

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1 Belliver Way, Roborough, Plymouth PL6 7BP 35

The heart of Three great venues at the heart of our beautiful bustling market town

TAVISTOCK TOWN HALL

tavistock_town_hall TavistockTC tavistocktownhall

Whether you’re holding a gala dinner, a wedding, sales fayre, or even an exercise class, our facilities and friendly and experienced staff make our elegant Gothic building the ideal place for your event.

01822 617232

townhall@tavistock.gov.uk

VOTED AS ONE OF THE ‘BEST TOWN WEDDING VENUES’ IN THE SOUTH WEST Butchershalltavistock Butchers_Hall ButchershHallTavistock

UPCOMING EVENTS

December

1st Antiques & Collectables Fair (free entry) 6th Butchers’ Hall Christmas Market (free entry) 7th Tavistock Arts Market (free entry) 14th Tavistock Arts Market (free entry) 15th Miss Ivy Events Christmas Festival 18th – 23rd Butchers’ Hall Christmas Markets (free entry)

Butchers ’H

Christmall Marketsas

Butchers’ Hall is available to hire for private functions and events: 01822 616134

6th 18th – 2&3 Decemb rd er

Pannier Market WHAT’S ON Additional Christmas Opening Monday 16th, Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd December

‘Shopping heaven in the heartOPEN ofTUESDAY Tavistock’ - SATURDAY

tavistockpanniermarket

OPEN TUESDAY - SATURDAY 9am - 4:30pm OPEN TUESDAY - SATURDAY • 9am 9am --4.30pm 4:30pm

TavistockMarket

‘Shopping heaven in the heart of Tavistock’

www.tavistock.gov.uk • 01822 611003

‘Shopping heaven in the heart of Tavistock’

What’s On

What’s On OCTOBER

OCTOBER Goose Fair, 10th Open 9am - 6pm

Goose Fair, 10th DECEMBER Open 9am - 6pm

TavistockPannierMarket

FRIENDS OF WHARF LUNCHTIME LECTURES

Organised by Dr Ann Pulsford, 2pm Tavistock Wharf

DECEMBER 9 DECEMBER: MONTY SCHULBERG OVERCOMING DISABILITIES THROUGH ART 16 DECEMBER: PETER BURKILL NAMIBIA

JANUARY 6 JANUARY: BARRY HAMBLIN THE LIFE OF CAPTAIN JAMES COOK: PART 2 – IN SEARCH OF TERRA INCOGNITA 13 JANUARY: BRIAN FREELAND AROUND THE WORLD IN EIGHTY PLAYS 20 JANUARY: ANDREW THOMPSON THE ALPS: A PERSONAL JOURNEY 27 JANUARY: JOHN DOBSON PUTIN’S RUSSIA 29 DECEMBER JAZZ AFTERNOON TEA Choose Two Bridges Hotel’s traditional full afternoon tea, or add a glass of fizz, with live jazz from local duo Fine Whines. 3pm – 5:30pm, call 01822 892300 or book online.

WHAT’S ON

JANUARY

1 JANUARY CORNWOOD WASSAIL Join Dartmoor Border Morris at The Cornwood Inn at 3.30pm. See What’s on Extra for details. 5 JANUARY WASSAIL AT BUCKLAND ABBEY A traditional wassail with Dartmoor Border Morris’s Mummers’ play at 1pm, see What’s on Extra for details. 7 JANUARY PRINCETOWN HISTORY CLUB Geri Parlby talks about ‘The Duchesses of Bedford’ at 7:30pm at Princetown Community Centre princetownhistoryclub.weebly.com 9 JANUARY YELVERTON LADIES OPEN GROUP Keep Moving with Wendy Greig at 7:30pm at Yelverton Memorial Hall. 9 JANUARY MOOR’S EDGE U3A Monthly Meeting at the Woolwell Centre 2:30pm with speaker, Wendy Hill, ‘Healthwatch Plymouth’ 9 JANUARY C.S RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP Retired? If so come and enjoy a friendly chat and cuppa (or something a wee bit stronger, at 12.30pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales Hotel, Princetown. Guest speaker, David Lemon will talk about ‘African Lions’. 15 JANUARY VOLUNTEER OPEN DAY AT COTEHELE

Learn new skills, use existing skills and join an inspiring team of people from all walks of life; find out more about the many varied volunteering opportunities at Cotehele. 11am-3pm. 18 JANUARY WASSAIL AT BERE FERRERS Bere Ferrers Parish Hall at 6:00pm – see What’s on Extra for details. Tickets: adults £5:00 - call 01822 840380 to book. 18 JANUARY CARMEN & MIMI – SMILE Singing duo Carmen & Mimi present a poignant Chaplinesque comedy blended with music. 7.30pm at Milton Combe Village Hall; book tickets on 01822 854865 or villagesinaction.co.uk/events. 19 JANUARY ALEXANDRA VADUVA CONCERT Romanian born pianist Alexandra Vaduva has won many international piano competitions - her programme includes works by Scarlatti, Schubert, & Enescu. 3pm at Minstrells Music Centre, Canworthy Water, Launceston, PL15 8UB. 20 JANUARY PRINCETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH 8.00pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales Hotel, Princetown. All residents of the Dartmoor Forest Parish Council area are welcome to attend. 21 JANUARY YELVERTON & DISTRICT LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY ‘The Real Poldark Inheritance’ - a talk by Terry Faull at Meavy Parish Hall at 7.30pm

Should the unthinkable happen this Christmas

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Ho! Ho! Ho!

A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our customers!

Tavistock 01822 610222 Plymouth 01752 869074 • Exeter 01392 401222 2A Westbridge Industrial Estate, Tavistock PL19 8DE • info@chamings.plumbing

www.chamings.plumbing See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

23 JANUARY YELVERTON LADIES OPEN GROUP Lundy Island with Simon Dell at 7:30pm at Yelverton Memorial Hall (open to guests). 27 JANUARY BERE LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Illustrated talk by Clive Charlton on ‘Bere Alston: some historical insights from the Medieval period to the 20th century’. All meetings take place in Holy Trinity Church Hall, Bere Alston at 7.30 pm. All are welcome, admission is £2 and includes tea/coffee and biscuits. 30 & 31 JANUARY, 6 - 8 FEBRUARY ALADDIN Phyl’s Follies proudly presents this fun pantomime for all the family with performances daily at Postbridge Village Hall at 7.30pm, plus matinee on 1st Feb at 2.00pm. Tickets: £7.00 Adults; £3.50 Child - available to buy in advance from Sue at Postbridge.panto@gmail.com or 01822 880223

FEBRUARY

2 FEBRUARY DEREK NASH & MARTIN DALE QUARTET One of the UK’s finest sax players joins one of the best bands in the South West. 7.30pm at the Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Plymouth. Tickets on the door £10 (members £8, full-time students £5) information 01752 721179, plymouthjazz-club.org.uk 4 FEBRUARY PRINCETOWN HISTORY CLUB Simon Dell talks about ‘A 50year Landmark’ at 7:30pm at Princetown Community Centre princetownhistoryclub.weebly.com 5- 8 FEBRUARY DICK TURPIN With a case of mistaken identity, unrequited love, secret passages and mysterious goings-on, it’s bound to be

an hilarious evening. For details see bucklandmonachorumdramagroup.co.uk 6 FEBRUARY C.S. RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP Retired? If so, join us for a friendly chat and a cuppa at 12.30pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales Hotel, Princetown. Guest speaker Simon Dell with his illustrated talk entitled ‘Tavistock Abbey’. 6 FEBRUARY YELVERTON LADIES OPEN GROUP Daffodils with Dr Frances Howard at 7:30pm at Yelverton Memorial Hall. 12- 15 FEBRUARY THE ICE QUEEN OF MEAVY A new queen is to be crowned, and the coronation is to be held in Meavy! 7:30pm daily in Meavy Parish Hall, plus Sat matinee at 2:30pm. For a full list of events see our community website at dartmoorlinks.co.uk

To promote your business to 13,800* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

Mon 24 - Sat 29 Feb 2020 theatreroyal.com | 01752 267222

W hat’s O n Until 19 December Plymouth Christmas Market Plymouth city centre piazza hosts more than 50 south west traders, selling their wares in traditional wooden cabins. Pick up unique gifts from handmade jewellery and artwork to sweet treats and liqueurs. With mulled wine at the Bavarian Bar, festive street food and entertainment including gospel choirs and vintage vocalists, the Christmas market will certainly put you in the festive spirit!

12 to 23 December A Grimm Christmas

Until 5 January Penguins: A LEGO Brick Trail The LEGO brick penguins return, with 19 Rockhoppers and one extra special Emperor hiding in city centre shops. There are fantastic prizes up for grabs if you find all 20, so pick up a trail map from participating retailers or visitplymouth.co.uk and get hunting!

Until 1 January Polar Bear Explorer Take an exciting journey across Plymouth’s waterfront, and learn about climate change, in the search for 20 polar bear cubs hidden in businesses from the Barbican to Royal William Yard. Download a trail map at visitplymouth.co.uk or pick it up from a participating business for a chance to win some brilliant prizes!

The Wheel and Barbican Theatre present ‘a spin on the fairy tales you thought you knew’ - The Brothers Grimm tell their stories as originally intended - uncensored with menace and gore to thrill and delight. 8pm at Barbican Theatre, Plymouth; tickets £15 from barbicantheatre.co.uk; suitable for age 16+.

14 December Christmas is here! 7 to 8 December Native Makers Winter Market 60 local and emerging makers are back with a two-day festive market at Ocean Studios in Royal William Yard. This years’ market sees the return of Native Cubs Craft, delicious snacks and fun, free activities.

D@visitplymouth E@visitplym

Phoenix Chorale’s festive concert, includes excerpts from Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, Fantasia on Christmas Carols by Vaughan Williams and the world premiere of The Oxen by Paul Saggers. 7:30pm, St Peter’s Church, PL1 5EG. Adults: £11 at Eventbrite.co.uk or £12 on the door; under 16s free. www.plymouthphoenixchorale. org

For more events please go to visitplymouth.co.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Friday 6th December

Dickensian Evening The tradition of Tavistock Dickensian Evening is one of the town’s favourite dates in the calendar – streets ablaze with colour, shop windows decorated with seasonal cheer and the enticing smell of roast chestnuts. This year, the evening is set to be even more magical with our first lantern parade kicking off the celebrations at 5pm at the top of West Street and the end of Brook Street - it will then meander through town to the main square where locals and visitors alike can take part in community carol singing. There will be fire performers, a Punch & Judy show, Christmas carols from local school choirs, entertainment from Dan The Hat, Morris dancers, stilt walkers, traditional Christmas rides, a touch of magic, REAL reindeer and, of course, Father Christmas will be on hand to spread the festive joy. To complement the town’s shops and eateries, we can also expect a host of other wonderful stalls, selling mince pies, cider, Christmas puddings, churros and mulled wine. And don’t forget to visit the beautiful Christmas Tree Festival in St

Eustachius’ Church and the Winter Market in Butchers’ Hall. It’s a joy to see so many people working together to produce such a spectacular event – it’s the town centre businesses who make it all possible and as they embrace the spirit of the evening in traditional dress, it’s a way to invite you to share with them in an evening of festivities, and for you to support them and enjoy our unique high street.

Tavistock Dickensian Evening Friday 6th December 2019 | What’s On & Where: Dickensian Lantern Parade 5:00-5:30

Meet West Street outside Toy Cupboard or Brook Street outside The Co-operative Bedford Square Stage 5:30-5:45 Lantern Parade Finale & Community Carol Singing with the Stannary Brass Band 5:45-6:00 Oﬃcial Welcome with the Mayor of Tavistock 6:00-6:15 Tavistock Community Primary School Sing 6:20-6:50 SJS Arts Performance 7:00-7:40 Tavy Tars 7:45-8:00 Local Musicians 8:00-8:20 Local Business Window Dressing & Costume Award Ceremony 8:30-9:00 Lodestone & Wreckers Morris West Street 6:00-6:20 Wreckers Morris 6:15-8:15 Reindeer animal enclosure 7:00-7:20 Lodestone Morris 8:00-8:45 Dan the Hat Lower West Street (outside Newells) Father Christmas – all night 6:30-7:00 Stannary Brass Band

B USINESS I MPROVEMENT D ISTRICT See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Bank Square Car Park Coconut Shy & Small Animal Display – all night 6:15-6:35 Punch & Judy 7:00-7:20 Punch & Judy 7:40-8:00 Punch & Judy Former Rest Rooms, Brook Street 6:15-6:30 Mary Tavy & Brentor Primary School Sing 6:30-6:45 St. Peter’s Primary School Sing 7:00-7:45 Dan The Hat Paddon’s Row 6:00-6:30 Dan The Hat 6:45-7:15 Wrecker’s Morris 7:45-8:15 Stannary Brass Band Brook Street (outside the Cooperative) Fairground Organ – all night 6:00-6:20 Lodestone Morris 6:30-7:00 Fire Performers 7:15-7:45 Fire Performers 8:00-8:30 Fire Performers

visit-tavistock.co.uk 41

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Friday 29th November to Sunday 8th December

Tavistock Christmas Tree Festival This will be the 11th festival organised by the Friends of St Eustachius’ and once again the church will be packed with up to 65 trees, decorated with a wide variety of styles and innovative ornaments by numerous local schools, businesses and organisations, reflecting the interests and occupations of the participants. As usual teas, coffees and light lunches will be available; marmalades, jams and chutneys will be on sale, as will the wonderful creations of our Vintage Green group.

During the festival there will also be musical interludes, and the opportunity to vote for your favourite tree. The opening ceremony will be at 2:00pm on 28 November at St Eustachius’ Church and the festival will be open to the public daily from 9:30am to 4.30pm with late night opening on 6 December for Dickensian Evening. Further details can be found at www. tavistockparishchurch.org.uk.

Tuesday 10th to Sunday 15th December

Yelverton Christmas Tree Festival There is something magical about Christmas trees and something even more magical about seeing a church full of decorated Christmas trees with lights twinkling and baubles sparkling. Here at Rock Methodist Church we are holding our annual Christmas tree festival and no doubt it will be as spectacular as ever. It never ceases to amaze me how cleverly the trees are decorated and all so very different from each other. There will be at least 24 trees, many with decorations that reflect the occupation of the sponsors, whilst others are decorated by local schools and organisations. Do come along to the festival,

it really is a beautiful winter wonderland, and it’s free! We are open 10.30am - 4.30pm from Tuesday 10th to Saturday 14th and 2pm – 4pm on Sunday 15th. We are also open on the evening of Friday 13th December for a concert with Plymouth Police Choir which will be pretty special as the trees look their best at night and the choir is promising a festive programme. Why not also come to our Carol Service at 10.30am Sunday 15 December? - with familiar carols and readings, as well as coffee and mince pies afterwards, it’s the perfect start to Christmas.

john spencer

jewllery made one story at a time...

GOLD SMITH • SILVERSMITH

JEWELLERY VALUATIONS CARRIED OUT • ALL ADVICE ON JEWELLERY GIVEN FREEMAN OF THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF GOLDSMITHS

AN EXAMPLE OF A PIECE MADE FROM RECYCLED JEWELLERY - a spot hammered silver target brooch set with an early Victorian rose diamond. Using my customer’s broken jewellery this cost £150. To start from scratch would have been £750.

COMMISIONS ACCEPTED CALL: 07778 622233

johncliffordspencer@gmail.com• johnspencer.uk

To promote your business to 13,800* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Thursday 12th December to Sunday 5th January

Treasure Island A swashbuckling family comedy for Christmas! It’s Christmas Eve in the Admiral Benbow Inn. Jim Hawkins is serving ale to the one and only customer the pub ever has. Suddenly the door slams open and in strides Billy Bones, the infamous pirate, changing Jim’s life forever… Teaming up once again with Barbican Theatre, Plymouth favourites Le Navet Bete return for their 9th Christmas production, following their recent smash hits, The Three Musketeers, Aladdin and Dracula: The Bloody Truth. Treasure Island is a hilarious rip-roaring comedy adventure,

encountering swashbuckling pirates, tropical islands and high seas. Join the four lads from Le Navet Bete as they play out the legendary tale as you’ve never seen it before. Set sail with Long John Silver and some other characters you may not expect, and prepare for a belly-laughing journey to the Caribbean

and back. X will definitely mark the spot this Christmas! Performances at various times at The Plymouth Athenaeum, Plymouth; tickets £18-£20 (inclusive of booking fees & charges) available at barbicantheatre.co.uk; runtime approx. 2 hours; suitable for age 6+.

Sunday 15th December

Christmas Festival It’s that time of year again when Miss Ivy Events brings this popular festival to the Pannier Market, Butchers Hall and Bedford Square in Tavistock from 10:30am to 3:30pm.The day will be jampacked full of festive treats from over 60 artisan and gift exhibitors, selling a selection of jewellery, candles, food, gifts and many other amazing items. On offer will also be workshops for the children (small charge applies), a gnome trail, performances from Entertainingly Different, a carousel and an appearance from Santa Claus. Performances from the Rock Choir and Callington Gospel Choir will also take place throughout the festival, helping to get you in the Christmas spirit, along with mince pies and mulled wine, as well as some yummy street food on offer! Miss Ivy is proud to support local businesses and in association with Tavistock BID, entry is FREE - so why not pop along and shop local this Christmas season.

Wednesday 18th to Monday 23rd December

Christmas Markets Butchers Hall’s fabulous Christmas Markets are back again, packed full of beautifully crafted gift ideas. There will be a wide selection of local artisan traders selling everything from gifts and decorations to festive food and drink - lots of fun for everyone! Join us in December as we celebrate the magic of Christmas with our festive markets. Opening times: 9.30am and 4.00pm - FREE entry.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

… S L’ E T L R A W SEC N R O PT C KE ST

VISIT THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF

CHARLIE BEARS AT THE BEARHOUSE GALLERY - LAUNCESTON -

Open Mon to Sat 10am-4pm Free Entry!

Bring this advert with you and get £5 off any collectable bear in The Bearhouse Gallery Shop in December

CHARLIE BEARS The Bearhouse | Pipers Close | Pennygillam Industrial Estate | Launceston | Cornwall PL15 7PJ www.charliebearsdirect.com

To promote your business to 13,800* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Charlie Bears Have you visited Cornwall’s best-kept secret? Charlie Bears is an international collectable teddy bear company based in Launceston, Cornwall. Founded by Charlotte and William Morris in 2005, the Charlie Bears Gallery allows you to view all of the collections from the very beginning! The gallery is a magical destination where the whole family can step in to the bear-illiant world of Charlie Bears. It is designed to be a multi-sensory space for everyone to enjoy, not just collectors of the bears, with two specially designed floors for everyone to immerse themselves in and even a bear hunt to see which bear cubs are hiding within the elaborate displays. You can easily spend a few hours in the gallery and our bear cubs are always on hand if you have any questions or if you would like to adopt a specific bear. There are lots of surprises

along the way and you’ll notice different details each time you visit the gallery as it evolves throughout the year. You can also pop your paws up for a moment and enjoy a coffee amongst the bears in the coffee nook. Entry to Charlie Bears Gallery is free all year round with the option of leaving a charitable donation within the gallery for the Charlie Bears charity of choice. There’s also a gallery shop where you’ll be spoilt for choice as to which bears to bring home with you, as each bear is uniquely named and has its own story to make the choosing process even more tantalizing. The Bearhouse Gallery is suitable for all, with disability access and a lift to take you to the upper floor, and it’s baby-friendly too with changing facilities. Opening hours: Monday – Saturday (10am – 4pm daily)

Wednesday 25th December

Rotary Christmas Day Lunch Tavistock Rotary is pleased to confirm the Christmas Day Lunch is taking place again this year, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and the willingness of volunteers to spend Christmas Day helping people enjoy themselves. Anyone who attended last year knows what a fantastic meal was served up, and we are lucky to have Buster from Cakes, Shakes and Bakes cooking for us again this year, as well as use of the beautiful hall and well-equipped kitchen, which Tavistock United Reformed Church has once again kindly offered. On top of this Tesco Tavistock is providing the food and drink for the whole event, and we are grateful for their support. Many people live a distance away from the venue or have mobility issues, so as in previous years, TASS will be providing a driver and transport to ensure that everyone is able to take part in the meal. Because of the popularity of the event, and to allow time for TASS to sort out transport routes, there is a closing date of Wednesday 18th December to put your name on the attendance list. If you would like to attend the event please contact Chris Ellis on 01822 616507 or mrsceellis@hotmail. com.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

If you are able to volunteer on Christmas Eve (setting up the hall), Christmas Day (from 10.30am approx.) or you are able to provide some entertainment on the day, please contact Chris. 45

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Winter at RHS Rosemoor You may think there’s not a lot to see in a garden during the winter months. But winter is a fabulous time to enjoy a walk round the 65-acre RHS Garden Rosemoor where there is a surprising amount of colour, plenty of intoxicating fragrance, and several winter events making it even more special. Join us for our magical Christmas Food & Craft Fair and take the chance to buy unique and wonderful gifts produced by selected artisan west country traders. Rosemoor GLOW makes an amazing show with remarkable, hi-tech colour-changing lights illuminating the trees, shrubs, water features and sculptures as you follow a new route through the Cool Garden to the lake. Or see how many sculptures you can discover in an exciting and eclectic collection of exhibits located throughout the garden - unique, individual creations in steel, glass, stone, copper and resin – most of which are for sale or can be made on commission.

14 & 15 December: Christmas Food & Craft Fair Saturday 11am -7pm, Sunday 10am -4pm; normal garden admission applies.

BESPOKE

Until 4 January (excl. 26 Dec): Rosemoor GLOW Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays only - illuminations 4pm to 8pm, last entry to garden 7pm. Normal garden admission includes Glow, discounted admission after 3pm.

Until 31 January: Winter Sculpture Exhibition Open daily 10am to 5pm; normal garden admission applies.

ARTISAN MADE

Photo by Simon Probyn

QUALITY

Stunning chairs beautifully made www.elizabea.co.uk H O O M E AV Y FA R M . Y E LV E RTO N . D E VO N . 0 1 8 2 2 8 5 3 6 9 1

@elizabeainteriors

To promote your business to 13,800* readers - call 01822 615627 advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

A-wassailing we go! Saturday 21st December

Let’s Wassail at Cotehele

Come along to this pagan festival to scare away the evil spirits from the orchards and ensure we have a successful crop in 2020. We’ll dress the oldest tree in the orchard with bread to appease the guardian of the orchard, make music and sing the Cotehele Wassail song. Why not come along in fancy dress? Bring a musical instrument if you have one, or a pot and a wooden spoon will work too; the idea is to make lots of noise! Meet by reception for a procession from 11.30am until 12pm with the troupe to the Old Orchard and Mother Orchard.

Wednesday 1st January

Cornwood Wassail

Meavy-based Dartmoor Border Morris will be leading the wassail, starting in the village square outside the Cornwood Inn at 3.30pm. Bring as many children, muddy boots, pots, pans, wooden sticks, and grandparents as you can to help us wassail the Cornwood Millenium Orchard! We like noise!

Cotehele Wassail by John Parker

Saturday 18th January

Wassail at Bere Ferrers Mummers’ Play at Buckland Abbey

Sunday 5th January

Mummers’ Play & Wassail at Buckland Abbey Dartmoor Border Morris will be performing their traditional Mummers’ play in the Great Barn at 1pm, with characters such as the Winter Queen, Sir Francis Drake, a good Doctor with a suspicious potion, and Chatterley, our Morris beast! This will be great family entertainment with a spot of Morris dancing, followed by the wassail parade into the orchard at 2pm. Again, bring wellies, kids, pots and pans, and make plenty of noise to ward off the bad spirits! The Ox Yard restaurant will be open for mulled cider, hot drinks, and food until 4pm. Normal admission applies. Trust members free entry. nationaltrust.org. uk/bucklandabbey

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Doors open at Bere Ferrers Parish Hall at 6:00pm, and there’ll be dancing by Dartmoor Border Morris from 6.30pm and Tavy Tars will be singing at 7pm. At 7.30pm the flaming torchlight procession sets off to the orchards, where there will be a bonfire, and the scaring of the bad spirits will follow with lots of noise and banging. Then toast will be hung in the trees and cider poured on their roots, followed by singing before returning to the parish hall for pasties, cider, mulled cider or apple juice. Tickets: adults £5:00, including cider and pasty; free entry for children and they still get a pasty and drink. Booking is advisable via M Willmott on 01822 840380. Everyone is welcome from the Bere Ferrers parish or further afield. Bring a pan and spoon to make lots of noise! See our history section in this issue for information on wassailing, or visit www.dartmoorbordermorris.com or www. tavyapples.org.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Wednesday 5th to Saturday 8th February

Dick Turpin

Buckland Monachorum Drama Group’s winter production is a pantomime by Paul Reakes, based (loosely) on the tale of Dick Turpin, the notorious highwayman. Those of a certain age, and with long memories, will remember the drama group doing this panto back in 2000! It was such fun, it was decided to run it again. The action takes place in and around Dame Dollop’s farm and Lotaloot Hall. Dick Turpin is rumoured to be in the area and is a wanted man with a bounty on his head - no not one of them chocolate bars – silly! Dick however seeks a new, peaceful life and thinks Dollop’s Farm is just the place to change his ways. Unfortunately for him, the evil Mr X is

intent on blackening his name still further with a dastardly plot to steal Lord Lotaloot’s prize jewels! With a case of mistaken identity, unrequited love, secret passages and mysterious goings-on, it’s bound to be an hilarious evening of laughter. Full details for performance times, ticket availability and prices can be found at www.bucklandmonachorumdramagroup.co.uk

Wednesday 12th to Saturday 15th February

The Ice Queen of Meavy

A new queen is to be crowned, and the coronation is to be held in Meavy! Expect trouble, thievery, love and ice. Princess Elsa is to be crowned queen in the sleepy village of Meavy, but she’s hiding a secret that could change the village forever. It’s up to the local barmaid and her best friend to save the day; with the help of a love-struck traveling salesman, they embark on a perilous journey to Princetown. What will become of our adventurers? What secrets are the villagers of Meavy hiding? Who will pour the pints now the barmaids have gone? Find out in MAD’s ‘The Ice Queen of Meavy’! Performances daily at 7:30pm in Meavy Parish Hall, 12 - 15 February, plus matinee performance on 15 February at 2:30pm. Meavy Amateur Dramatics (MAD) is a diverse group of individuals of all ages who get together every Thursday

Photo by James Bird, courtesy of Tavistock Times Gazette

evening in Meavy Parish Hall. We are always on the lookout for new talent, be it behind the scenes, front of house, prop and set making, or even on the stage itself! Please come and talk to us about becoming a member today!

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MUSIC AND ART

Friday 13th December

Plymouth Area Police Choir Concert This wonderful choir will be giving a seasonal concert, with a Christmassy theme, at 7.30pm at Rock Methodist Church, Yelverton, surrounded by Christmas trees! Formed in 1972, The Plymouth Area Police Choir consists of serving police officers, retired officers, special constables, police staff and members with no police affiliation who have proven musical ability. Performing around 15 concerts a year, from September to June, the choir has travelled extensively, performing concerts in Germany, the Netherlands, France and Italy. In July 2010 the choir was invited to represent the UK at the very prestigious Festival Internazionale Corale Verona Garda Estate, in Italy. However, its greatest joys are gained by going into the local Devon and Cornwall communities to

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provide entertainment and raise funds for local and national charities. Since its inauguration the choir has been involved in raising over £500,000 for charity and local good causes. This concert is part of the church’s Christmas Tree Festival, open from Tuesday 10th to Sunday 15th December (10.30-4.30 Tues-Sat, 2.00-4.00 Sunday). Tickets for the concert are £6 at the door. With the harmonious voices of the choir and the beautifully decorated trees, the atmosphere will be amazing – you won’t want to miss it, so put the date in your diary now.

MUSIC AND ART

Art for All Human beings have been expressing themselves through art for millennia - but more recently, we are beginning to realise just how important a tool creativity can be in boosting wellbeing. Art for All classes aim to combat social isolation - in people who are retired, or who have retired early due to illness, carers, the unemployed and under-employed of all ages. Andy and Gill Cairns of West Devon Art Workshops run the classes in Tavistock, Bere Alston, Princetown, Okehampton, Gunnislake, Callington and Launceston, and the courses have been very successful, with overwhelmingly positive feedback - over two thirds of participants consistently state they have experienced a significant positive impact, and feel socially engaged with increased self-confidence. More than 80% also report a growth in artistic skills and knowledge. Andy Cairns says that experiencing learning with others breaks down barriers, and creative activities help cross bridges of age and ability; reducing stress and building confidence. One Art for All participant, Christine, tried a range of craft and art activities through the courses, from felting to wire modelling, printing to batik and says

the sessions were fun, well organised and very creative, with help always available. She describes how she got involved with the programme: “Having had a spell of depression and anxiety, I needed something to focus my mind elsewhere. It was very successful and for the first time in some months my anxiety decreased, I was getting out again into my community and best of all, it got me crafting at home for the first time in a long time - helping divert negative anxiety and thoughts.” She recommends the classes wholeheartedly: “You get to meet so many fab people, as well as getting totally absorbed in different arts and crafts. The joy of the classes is quality tuition at affordable prices, as the classes are subsidised by funding. Materials are all provided, so you just need to turn up with an apron and get stuck in!” Clay modelling in Princetown: 7, 14, 21, 28 January Mixed media painting in Bere Alston: 9, 16, 23, 30 January For more information about Art for All, go to www.westdevonartworkshops.co.uk

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MUSIC AND ART

Saturday 18th January

Carmen & Mimi – Smile Smile is an honest and affirming look at life with all its triumphs and potholes: love, loss, children, desire, despair… and always with a smile! Singing duo Carmen & Mimi present a poignant Chaplinesque comedy set in a somewhere and nowhere world, looking at various stages of life, romance, parenthood and mortality. It blends charming physical comedy with sublime singing – ranging from opera and lieder to cabaret and musical theatre. Carmen & Mimi are played by Simone Hellier and Jenny Oldfield, and supported by performer Ben Oldfield (cube theatre) and musician Peter Thomson. The show is directed by Kyla Goodey (Trifle Gathering, Wildworks, Miracle Theatre, Kneehigh, cube theatre). 7.30pm at Milton Combe Village Hall; to book tickets call 01822 854865 or book online at villagesinaction.co.uk/events.

Sunday 2nd February

Derek Nash and The Martin Dale Quartet Plymouth Jazz Club is looking forward to an evening of great music when star saxophonist Derek Nash, from Jules Holland’s Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, joins his old friend Martin Dale with his quartet. Derek Nash is at the forefront of British jazz and is ‘one of the most versatile saxophonists in the UK today’ (The Guardian). He is a vibrant and charismatic performer on all four saxes from soprano to baritone, equally at home leading his own bands, or swinging his way to best CD of the year 2000 with Spike Robinson. He has appeared

live and on television with many top performers including Eric Clapton, David Sanborn, Tom Jones, Jamie Cullum, Will Young, Amy Winehouse and Ruby Turner, as well as playing with the cream of British, European and American jazz musicians. He leads the award-winning London based jazz ensemble Sax Appeal. Derek has often played with Plymouth’s favourite sax player Martin Dale, including in Sax Appeal, and together they have built up a world class rapport. Martin was a member of the John Burch Octet, taking the tenor sax position when star Dick Morrissey became ill; he has also worked on the QE2 as lead alto player, backing artists such as Neil Sedaka, Petula Clark and Tom Jones. Martin’s fine quartet features the best of local jazz musicians including Kevin Sanders on bass, Gavin Martin on piano and Dennis Harris on drums.

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NATIONAL TRUST

Christmas traditions at Cotehele - old and new Christmas has always been a traditional affair at Cotehele, with the annual garland in the Great Hall now in its 63rd year. The fire and candles are lit and you can enjoy choirs performing under the garland most days in December. We’re hoping to create a new tradition this year too. For the first time ever, we’re opening Cotehele Mill at Christmas and hope this will become as popular as the garland. Most of our festive traditions were invented by the Victorians; Christmas trees, cards, crackers, figgy pudding and presents on Christmas day, all date from that period and in the Victorian mill we can celebrate these traditions as they would have been enjoyed by families at that time. The mill will be filled with festive decorations and little ones will love getting hands-on with history making Christmas crafts, playing with toys and dressing up in Victorian Sunday best. There are family trails to follow too and Mother and Father Christmas are stopping by to meet good boys and girls as well.

creation. See choirs performing underneath it most days in December. See website for details.

COTEHELE CHRISTMAS GARLAND

Meet Mother and Father Christmas in their grotto at Cotehele Mill before they fly up to the North Pole to begin their Christmas deliveries. No need to book. £3 per child, includes gift.

Saturday 16 November – Sunday 5 January, 10.30am-4pm The Cotehele garland is a local tradition and this year’s garland is a bumper affair, with over 35,000 flowers in the 60ft long

A VICTORIAN FAMILY CHRISTMAS AT COTEHELE MILL December weekends (Fri-Sun) and school Christmas holidays, 11am-3pm See the mill decorated for a traditional Victorian Christmas and find out how families like the Langsfords celebrated the festive season. Mother and Father Christmas will be visiting on selected dates, there’s lots of hands-on fun for families and a pop-up café too.

MOTHER AND FATHER CHRISTMAS AT COTEHELE MILL Saturday and Sunday 14, 15, 21 & 22 December, 11.30am-2.30pm

For more details see nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

Christmas cheer made at Cotehele Enjoy choirs performing under the traditional Cotehele garland and follow the children’s trail to the Mill for a Victorian family Christmas. These are the places that make us. Social icon

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nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

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NATIONAL TRUST

1000 Christmas wishes at Buckland Abbey Step back in time and experience an Elizabethan style Christmas at Buckland Abbey, every day from 1st December. This Christmas, the doors to the Great Barn open to reveal a willow star constellation in the roof; one thousand willow wishing stars have been made by visitors and volunteers at Buckland Abbey as a Christmas wish or in tribute to somebody special. Navigate your way under the star constellation through a path of two hundred Christmas trees to find the Christmas star on top of a showstopper tree in the Great Barn. Once you have admired the Great Barn, you won’t want to miss Christmas in the abbey. This year, the house is an Elizabethan home of feast and festivity thanks to local groups from the National Association of Flower Arranging Societies (NAFAS), who have been busy creating impressive floral displays to fill every room of the abbey with colour, fragrance and festive cheer.

CHRISTMAS FAMILY TRAIL Daily in December, 10am-4pm Olde Father Christmas, dressed in traditional green, will be greeting families in the hall to tell stories about Christmases

gone by. Every child will be gifted a keepsake to take home and hang on their Christmas tree. Booking is essential. Go to nationaltrust.org.uk/bucklandabbey to book timed tickets. (£6.50/£4).

STORYTIME WITH OLDE FATHER CHRISTMAS Saturdays & Sundays 1-22 December Outside, follow the Christmas family trail to learn about Sir Francis Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe where he followed star constellations to spend his first Christmas in Morocco. (Trail sheets £1)

BUCKLAND ABBEY WASSAIL Sunday 5th January No New Year festivity is complete without a traditional wassail. Join Dartmoor Border Morris at Buckland Abbey and celebrate the wassail for a good harvest next year. Remember to bring your pots and pans to make lots of noise! Usual admission applies. National Trust members free entry. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/bucklandabbey

at Buckland Abbey Dressed in traditional green, join Olde Father Christmas in the Great Hall for magical stories of Christmases gone by. Every child is gifted a Buckland Abbey Christmas keepsake.

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Storytime with Olde Father Christmas

£6.50 (Child+1 adult) / £4 additional adult. Book online:

nationaltrust.org.uk/bucklandabbey

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FOOD & DRINK

Reaping the rewards Three years ago, Marcus Williams, along with family and friends, planted Tamar Valley Vineyard near Bere Alston. At the time Marcus featured as one of our local people, so we were delighted to catch up with him a couple of months ago just after the vineyard’s first harvest. The prospects of the UK wine industry have changed exponentially over the last 30 years, as consumer tastes have changed and winemakers in this country

have created a world-class reputation for sparkling white wine. Champagne houses Taittinger and Vranken Pommery have even invested in land in South East England and the UK won three Best in Show medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards this year. While new UK industry body, WineGB, announced in May that three million vines were expected to be planted this year, double the figure planted in 2018, representing a 24% increase in the total area under vine in the UK. Most vineyards are in the south east of England but there are also some in most English and Welsh counties and even vines growing in Scotland. Vines were probably introduced to England as far back as Roman times and from 1066 there was considerable interest in viticulture at monasteries and later with landowners. However, this largely died out over the next centuries, probably as a result of the variable climate and inconsistent crop return. It wasn’t until the 1950s that English wine experienced a revival; due to the extensive work of a group of pioneers, who looked at suitable vines and growing techniques, commercial wine-making became possible, with a large number of vineyards being planted from the 1960s to the 1990s.

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Following in the footsteps of local, award-winning Camel Valley Vineyard and Sharpham Wine & Cheese, Tamar Valley Vineyard is located on the perimeter of wine-growing areas, but it benefits from south-facing slopes overlooking the River Tamar which catch the sun perfectly, and also basks in the microclimate of the Tamar Valley with its cultural heritage of market gardening. Marcus’s grandfather bought the plot of land in 1958 and always dreamed of planting a vineyard there, but it wasn’t until after his death in 2004 when the land passed to his family, that Marcus’s scientific background as a marine biologist prompted renewed interest in the project of creating a vineyard. The family worked with the same consultant who helped establish the Sharpham

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FOOD & DRINK

vineyards and discovered that the local topography of the land was similar to the wine-producing area of the Rhur in Germany. They selected the white wine grape Madeleine Angevine for the vineyard – a variety which originates from the Loire Valley but is also popular in Germany and is well suited to England’s cool climate, producing a crisp, dry, white wine with a floral character. The last three years have been all-consuming. Marcus and his wife Heather both have full-time jobs as marine biologists at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, and have also been working what appears to be another full-time job at the vineyard, albeit with the help of Marcus’s parents, David and Paula Williams, and the ‘vineyard supervisor’, their five-yearold son Logan. The vines were planted with the help of family and friends, Marcus attended an intensive viticulture course, learning how to cultivate vines, deal with diseases and encourage biodiversity. Rows have been weeded, leaves have been tested and flowers have been pinched out to encourage growth - until this year when the flowers were counted to estimate the future harvest and finally allowed to progress to fruit. The investment of time and money has been considerable, but the harvest was a joyous affair when helpers young and old came together to reap the first fruits of Tamar Valley

Vineyard. The whole day went like clockwork, with 1.5 tonnes of grapes carefully picked and despatched to a winemaker in Ledbury. Marcus explains that fermentation can take up to a month, before the product is left to age in huge stainlesssteel tanks. After bottling, yeast and sugar are added to set off a secondary fermentation – a process which can take up to a year. In the meantime, Marcus and Heather have been busy picking the apples from their orchard of 30 trees to make cider, and there are also plans to plant another vine crop in May 2020 – a pinot noir this time. Ideas abound for the future – their own winery, a café, a glamping site, trips by train and river. For now, it’s a waiting game, with all the incumbent anticipation and anxiety created by the prospect of trying the first bottle of your vineyard’s sparkling white wine. There’s just a possibility of a taste

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FOOD & DRINK

Marvellous Mulled Wine It’s a festive classic!

Method

For a chilly winter’s evening, there’s nothing like a mug of mulled wine to help you stay warm and toasty. The mixture of wine, spices, and fruit flavours drives back the cold, and it’s a brilliant drink to enjoy all winter long. This delicious recipe was kindly given to Moor Links by Moorland Garden Hotel why not give it a try this festive season?

Cut the orange into thick wedges and stud with the cloves

water if you like) and add the orange, vanilla and spices

Cut open the vanilla bean and scratch out the seeds

Gently heat through but do not bring to a boil or the alcohol will evaporate.

Ingredients 75cl bottle red wine (dry) 2 small cinnamon sticks 2 star anise 1 vanilla pod nutmeg (grated to taste preference) 4 cloves 1 large orange 150g caster sugar

Pour the wine into a pan (with a little

Sugar can be added to sweeten to taste

Tips Mulled wine can be kept warm at the back of a stove for hours until ready to serve Check that the cups/glasses you use to serve the wine are safe to use with hot liquids If you want to offer a really boozy punch, you can add brandy or sloe gin to the wine

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FOOD & DRINK

Carters Carters is the new name for Crebers at number 48A Brook Street, Tavistock - or rather it’s the old name for Crebers, since the family grocery business was originally run by John Carter before he retired in 1913, handing over the reins to his daughter Winifred, and her husband Henry Creber. Born in 1848, John Carter started work at just 12 years old in Wheal Maria, before later working as an errand-boy for John Cock, a Brook Street grocer. John Carter, his wife Mary and family of four daughters emigrated to America for a while, but had returned to Tavistock by the mid-1870s - probably when life in America failed to live up to

expectations. John joined his brother’s grocery business in West Street and may also have had his own grocery business by 1878 in Duke Street. However, the history of Carter’s and later Creber’s grocery store, all stems from a fire. John Cock’s grocery store

at 48 Brook Street - where John Carter had worked in his youth – went up in flames in 1881. Rumour had it that the fire was started by John Cock’s sons to stymie their father’s plans for them to take over the business. Whatever the cause, the fire was the last straw for

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John Cock and he passed the shop to John Carter. The Carter grocery business flourished, thanks to John’s hard work, the popularity of his wife’s dressmaking business on the floor above, and John’s reputation as an expert in tea and freshly-roasted coffee. The business remained in the family for over 130 years. And now Carters has a new lease of life under the management of Jack Brudnik, who is focusing on recapturing the gastronomic traditions of John Carter’s grocery store, but with a contemporary range of fine gourmet foods drawn from superior local and international producers. Carters specialises in delicatessen products such as cheeses, cooked and cured meats, as well as wines, spirits and not forgetting John

Carter’s original speciality – roasted coffees and loose-leaf teas. The emphasis is on service with same-day home deliveries, cheese and wine pairing recommendations, and madeto-order hampers in the time-honoured Creber and Carter tradition. Carters will be open 7 days a week leading up to Christmas and will be staying open late on Dickensian Evening with a range of cheese, wine and other products available to sample. All the historical details used in this article are taken from Gerry Woodcock’s Tavistock’s Yesterdays no.3, and Norma

Woodcock has kindly given permission for the information to be shared in this article. Tavistock History Society recently published a comprehensive index covering all 27 of Gerry Woodcock’s Tavistock’s Yesterdays, which is available from Tavistock Museum and Book Stop at £10.50; containing more than 50 000 individually referenced topics, it is a must for anyone interested in Tavistock’s history.

NO M 20 IN 19 E E

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HISTORY

Wassail!

Dartmoor Border Morris at Buckland Abbey by Grant Wyness

The ancient celebration of wassailing is once again becoming a popular part of New Year festivities in the West Country, and no wonder as this is the home of apple orchards, cider making and gorgeous golden cider. But what are the origins of this tradition? The Celts, dwelling in the dark clearings of the ancient English forests, may have been the instigators of this ancient rite, believing that by chasing away evil spirits from the wild crab apple trees, it would protect them and encourage a good crop for the coming year. When the Romans arrived in Britain, they introduced new apple cultivars and orcharding techniques, and Roman drinking feasts in honour of Bacchus, the god of drinking and merry-making, echo shades of wassailing. However, ‘wassail’ and the origins of the tradition as we know it today, seem to date back to when England was invaded by the AngloSaxons from the fifth century, and the Danes in the ninth century. According to The Oxford English Dictionary, the word itself is derived from the Old Norse ‘ves heill’, corresponding to the Old English ‘wes hál’ or ‘Wes þú hál’ and meaning ‘be in good health’, which was used as a greeting; this became ‘wæs hæil’ (also wes hail, waes hael) in Middle English, after the Norman conquest – giving us the modern word ‘hale’, as in ‘hale and hearty’. The term is even recorded as a greeting as early as the eighth century in the poem ‘Beowulf’. At some point the greeting graduated to a drinking salutation, which was followed by the response ‘drinc hæil’, meaning ‘let’s drink to good health’ (other variations were drink heil and drinchail). Wassailing was probably initially about drinking and making merry, vital to keep people going through the dispiriting winter months, although the concept has changed considerably over 62

the course of time. The pagan celebration was incorporated into the Christian celebration of Twelfth Night or the 12 days of Christmas, hence the reason that current celebrations are often held on 5th January - or on 18th January, the date of Old Twelfth Night before the introduction of the Gregorian calendar. In Medieval England the celebration became a drunken evening outing where the local agricultural peasants would visit all the wealthy landowners in the parish with a wassailing bowl which they demanded was filled with ale, wine or cider for everyone to pass round and share with the traditional greeting. Then wassailing songs would be sung, blessing the local squire and wishing him health and happiness for the coming year. Bread or spiced toast was sometimes added to the bowl to soak up bitter sediments and this practice eventually gave rise to the phrase, ‘toasting good health’. In Victorian times, some wassailing groups became notorious and were ultimately banned by the local magistrate, as they rampaged around towns and villages, forcing their way into as many houses as they could, getting more and more drunken, demanding drink and food with threats and violence, smashing things up, being violently sick and making a lot of noise. Wassail bowl from c.1604 However eventually, house-wassailing evolved ©Stuart King into carolling, with groups of people going from house to house singing Christmas carols, such as ‘Here we come a-wassailing’, written around 1850. In some parts of the country, farmers also started wassailing their crops and animals to encourage fertility. The barley used to make beer in the rest of the country, never grew well down here in the damp, windy landscape of the South West, so the apple was the main source of intoxicating drink. Wassailing became part of the ritual to protect apple trees at orchard

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HISTORY

Cotehele Wassail by Chris Groves

the apple harvest celebrated at Apple Fest each October. The Bere Ferrers Wassail always takes place after Christmas - a procession of villagers with flaming torches visit the local orchards where the traditional ceremony takes place with a bonfire, singing and lots of noise and cider pouring, followed by dancing from Dartmoor Border Morris, cider and pasties at the parish hall. Mary Sargeant Tavy & Tamar Apple Group, www.tavyapples.org.uk

Stuart King, Ralph Hental, wassailing in Hertfordshire ÂŠStuart King

ceremonies, which are still followed today. In the South West these events now consist of the community visiting each parish orchard in turn, lighting a fire and making as much noise as possible, by banging pans with sticks, firing guns into the air and shouting and yelling - all to scare away the bad spirits from the orchards! Then, to thank the trees and encourage the good spirits to protect the orchards, cider is poured at the roots of the trees by the King of the Orchard, the oldest man in the village; then the Queen of the Wassail, a girl child, is lifted into the trees to place toast in the branches. After this comes a wassailing song, which is usually the orchard song below, or a similar variation.

assail the trees that they may bear, W you many a plum and many a pear for more or less fruits, they will bring as you do give them wassailing. Over time, as beer replaced cider in popularity, orchards were cut down and wassailing went into decline, just hanging on in a few places. Yet today there is a revival of interest in this jolly outdoor celebration and the real thing can be experienced once more in many villages across the South West, as well as at several National Trust properties, including Buckland Abbey and Cotehele. In the village of Bere Ferrers the apple is an important asset, with cider produced from local orchards, and See Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Extra for details on local wassail events taking place in December and January. Saturday 21 December: Cotehele Wednesday 1st January: Cornwood Sunday 5th January: Buckland Abbey Saturday 18th January: Bere Ferrers

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Wassail bowls Wassail bowls were made from wood or pewter initially so that they lasted, but bowls were also crafted for the more wealthy using precious metals, carved stone, ornate ceramics, as well as turned lignum vitae wood with intricate carving. Stuart King created this wooden wassail bowl in a traditional style using sycamore â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it has since been hired by the Royal Shakespeare Company, and appeared in two TV episodes of Time Team and a photo-shoot for Heston Blumenthal.

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and four stiles. 1. Walk along the road with the village hall on your right, to a T-junction where you turn right. The road curves to the left and then over a bridge crossing the River Meavy (although there are stepping stones if you prefer!). Walk up the hill, cross a cattle grid where the road bears right and you

2. You can go straight on, following a fence on your left which soon turns sharply left downhill but you proceed uphill through the gorse to Lynch Common. The other option is to remain on the road to reach Lynch Common. Whichever path you choose, stop at the

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OUTDOORS AND ACTIVE

top to enjoy the view of Sheeps Tor as its centrepiece. 3. Once on Lynch Common there are numerous small sheep tracks to follow as you walk broadly parallel to the road. Crossing a side road you gain in height and the views open towards the left of the Burrator Reservoir dam completed in 1898 and raised in 1929. 4. On the skyline ahead is a large tree plantation for which you should aim. Rejoin the road here and at the first junction go right. Proceed to a T-junction (signposted Clearbrook, Meavy and Yelverton) where you go right. 5. After about 500 metres take a track and a public footpath on the right that passes through a gate. At a second gate into a farmyard go left and then go through a third gate. The track goes to the right, between hedges, and leads to another gate crossing the Lovaton Brook before reaching a lane and a few

cottages. Turn left and left again at the T-junction. The path follows alongside the brook and you should cross a new stile on the right about 150 metres after crossing the brook. ME

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Tech tips from ChezvousPC For a long time, I have been an advocate of Norton Security and regularly install it for customers as here at CVPC I find it is the easiest and least complicated. There have always been additional extras that I have advised people are not really necessary such as their toolbar and homepage. Norton has recently launched a new version of the 360 product which includes many other elements, and is offering a free upgrade; this is all very well, but unfortunately at the end of the period it becomes a pay-monthly product and will be very much more expensive as a result. So, if you are an existing customer with Norton, please don’t be tempted! So, everyone seems to think that if you have a Windows 7 machine it needs to be replaced in January. For those of you with machines that are already 8-10 years old that is certainly the case. But if your PC is 4-5 years old there is a way that it can be just upgraded to Windows 10 AND retain everything. So, if you are not ready to ditch your PC because of the retirement of 7, then I can upgrade it for a tenth of the cost of replacing it!

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Name: Gingerbread Man Trade: Christmas confection and lead fairy-tale character

How much training is involved? Not a lot of training is required. You need to be able to lie flat for long periods of time, unless of course you’re being chased by a fox, in which case you must be able to ‘run, run, as fast as you can’. If at all possible, it might be good to learn to swim because then you could evade the fox and live out a full and happy life. How long have you been a gingerbread person? The story of ‘The Gingerbread Boy’ first appeared in print in the 1875 issue of St Nicholas Magazine and I have been reproduced in print and in comestible form ever since. I go stale after a while, although I have been known to lurk in biscuit tins well past my best-before date. Where and when do you work? I get my best work done over the Christmas period when fans of delicious gingerbread go all out making and decorating my jolly fat frame. First there’s all of the mixing with spices, sugar, butter and flour. Then rolling me out, shaping me, then into the oven (not a pleasant experience!). When being decorated, I

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like tasteful attire, such as 70% dark chocolate buttons and a bit of gold leaf - but usually its jelly tots, sultanas and random hundreds and thousands. Of course, if you’re upping the ante and creating a gingerbread cosmopolitan sailfish, then you’re going to need a lot of edible silver food colouring! What would you say to someone thinking of this as a career? You definitely need to be aware of all the cons as well as the pros: there’s a lot of mooching around inside dark tins once you’re out of the oven (really quite unpleasant), and you also have to stay fit to keep running when being chased by ravenous animals. Sometimes you’re just nibbled, but more often than not it’s gingerbread-manslaughter! What is the best thing about your job? Well I do bring joy to the happy, hungry Christmas celebrants, and I adore being the star of the gingerbread story – I never tire of shouting ‘run, run as fast as you can…’. Who doesn’t love a good story at Christmas, whilst nibbling on a gingerbread sailfish? – double gingerbread whammy! Oh, and I rather like it when they dribble icing all over me.

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