Moor links oct nov16

MOOR LINKS October / November 2016

Issue 24

YELVERTON • BUCKLAND MONACHORUM • WALKHAMPTON • HORRABRIDGE • CLEARBROOK MEAVY • MILTON COMBE CRAPSTONE • BERE PENINSULA • DOUSLAND • PRINCETOWN • SAMPFORD SPINEY • SHEEPSTOR • POSTBRIDGE

n o g n i Farm r o o m t r a D YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUB, DARTMOOR FARMERS GOOSE FAIR AND MORE...

❤ INSIDE THIS ISSUE: VILLAGE NEWS • GARDENING • EDUCATION • FOOD • HEALTH • HISTORY • WHAT’S ON

GREAT DAYS OUT

Burrator Family Fun and Tea for Trussell

COLOUR ALL YEAR

Grow your own and a community garden for all

WHAT’S ON

Half Term fun, Dickensian Evening, Fireworks and Star Wars!

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Celebrating all things ‘farming’...

With the end of the farming ‘harvest’ season and autumn now upon us, many of our local schools and churches have recently celebrated the season with traditional harvest festivals. As such we thought it appropriate to also celebrate with a special farming edition of the magazine. From any of our towns or villages (Yelverton, Tavistock, Princetown, Bere Alston etc.), farmers fields or open moorland are only ever a mile or so away, literally surrounding us with farming life and all its activities within an ever-changing landscape.

Tim and Lizzie hard at work - always with a cup of tea!

Lizzie Watt - EDITOR Tim Randell - PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Traditionally the Harvest Supper was eaten on Michaelmas Day (29th September) with tables overflowing with produce from the fields and a goose stuffed with apples. It also became known as ‘Goose Day’ with goose fairs being held in towns around the country. Tavistock is well known for its Goose Fair Day and along with Nottingham is one of only a few now remaining. We all enjoy the fun and excitement of the great fair ground rides and stalls selling a vast array of goodies but perhaps we have slightly forgotten what Goose Fair Day was originally about.

For the past few years the cattle market in Tavistock has been running a traditional goose and poultry auction on Goose Fair Day, along with country crafts and demonstrations and this year is no exception – it promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

See pages 50 in our What’s On Extra for all the details and a little bit of the history behind it. I went along last year and thoroughly enjoyed it and although tempted to auction for a beautiful pair of white geese – I managed to resist!

We have also included three amazing women as our ‘Local People’ for this issue – all of whom are connected with the farming world and working hard to promote it through their own endeavors. Also working hard to promote themselves are the Dartmoor Farmers, a cooperative group of over 50 farmers on Dartmoor working tirelessly to improve their own commercial viability and survival and to share with us their fantastic local produce. See page 38 to read the full article.

Meet the team...

Rosemary Best DEPUTY EDITOR/ WRITER

Jane Honey WRITER

Nichola Williams WRITER

Jane Daniel SALES & MARKETING

Victoria Piper SALES & MARKETING

Terri Reeves GRAPHIC DESIGN (Editorial)

Julian Rees GRAPHIC DESIGN (Advertising)

The deadline for any inclusions in the Dec/Jan issue is Friday 4th November.

We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank Our next magazine, Dec/Jan will be out w/c 5th December and our you to our many contributors for so kindly giving us their deadline for any inclusions is 4th November. This is alwaysWEtime DON’T and expertise, in helping keep our magazine so a popular edition of the magazine and fills up fast, so please send interesting to all.

JUST PUBLISH any information through or contact us as early as possible so we MAGAZINES! ALL Advertising can allocate a space for it. If we are unable to include it in the We are very well known for our magazines - Tavy Links and enquiries magazines, we will always put it on our website.

Moor Links, but we also provide additional marketing support Contact Tim, Jane or Kate on www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk services to many local businesses.

07450 161 929 / 01822 615627 to disuss your advertising enquiries.

Email: advertising@moorlinks.co.uk We can provide you with full website: design, or visit our copywriting and print services ensuring you www.moorlinks.co.uk to view get the right message to your target audience.

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Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the editorial team.

We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Tavy Links or Olijam Communications Ltd accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. All data contained in advertisements WE’D LIKE TO HELP… subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and are accepted by us in Contact Lizzie or Tim for more informationare 01822 853110 good faith at the time of going to press. Reproduction of editorial is strictly prohibited www.olijam.co.uk lizzie@olijam.co.uk The NEW website for Moor Links and Tavy Links without prior permission from the publisher.

All rights reserved copyright © 2016 dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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Now you can read all about local people, community issues and lifestyle articles online. Along with Health Matters, Walks, Bike Rides, Gardening and History you’ll find every subject your interested in and much more.

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk Comprehensive What’s On listing

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CONTENTS

WHAT’S INSIDE...

❤ 06 VILLAGE NEWS Tea for Trussell, RAF Harrowbeer, a new slipway and Rotary Club Round-Up

LOCAL PEOPLE

A Young Farmer, Best Woman in Farming and running Tavistock Farmers’ Market

12 38 DARTMOOR FARMERS

18

CHARITY FOCUS Farming Community Network, helping farmers cope in times of crisis.

21

EDUCATION

30

GARDENING

36

FARMING DIARY

54

MUSIC & ART

62

FOOD & WINE

68

HISTORY

Dartmoor Farmers – a group of dedicated farmers making a difference.

Green fingers help with learning both at school and in the community Sue Fisher extols the virtues of growing flowers for every week of the year Nights are drawing in at Greenwell farm and the rams are getting on with their job.

Ninebarrow folk duo to play at Sheepstor and full steam ahead for the Railway Children Winter warming recipes from Dartmoor Farmers’ website and looking to English vineyards.

Centuries of farming history in Tavistock – a legacy still ongoing today.

59 DOG BLOG

Our new dog blogger ‘Moss’ writes her first blog for us.

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

46

WHAT’S ON EXTRA Fireworks, Dickensian Evening, Goose Fair and even Star Wars invading!

5

VILLAGE NEWS

Tavistock’s Butchers’ Hall – Undergoing Restoration Work is progressing well on the repair and restoration of the Grade II listed Butchers’ Hall, adjacent to the Pannier Market in the centre of Tavistock.

The contractors, A D Williams, are currently putting the finishing touches to the restored roof - carefully reinstating as many of the original timber beams and sarking boards as possible. The distinctive lantern window that runs along the length of the building has been fully repaired, together with dozens of small repairs to the existing windows.

and is the first in a series of buildings ear-marked for repair as part of the Tavistock Townscape Heritage initiative (THI).

More information is available at www.tavistockthi.org.uk or by contacting the THI Project Manager, Martin Searle on 01822 616134.

Samples of the original deep green paint have been taken from the cast iron gutters and the colour has been carefully matched with a modern alternative that will be used on rainwater goods, louvres, windows and doors throughout the building. Similarly, samples of the lime mortar used have been sent to the Cornish Lime Company for laboratory analysis so that an exact match can be made, such is the attention to detail in the restoration work.

Work is due for completion in November 2016.

The restoration work has been funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Greater Dartmoor LEAF and Tavistock Town Council

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We welcome people to pop in at anytime for an informal chat and tour of our home or contact us on the details below to request a free brochure. Competitive rates and discounts for couples are available.

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VILLAGE NEWS

‘Tea for Trussell’ Trussell Trust Foodbanks – Tavistock

There are now 424 Trussell Trust foodbanks such as the one in Tavistock operating all over the UK. It’s not just a case of how many there are, but how much support they are now having to provide, as shown in the diagram below.

foodbank far easier than we imagined when we opened our doors. Year on Year the numbers are still increasing, but so is the support we receive from the people of Tavistock and the wider community, to whom we thank very sincerely.’

As Valerie O’Neill, Chairperson of Tavistock Foodbank, explains: ‘Tavistock Foodbank has been open now for four years and in that time we have issued 1120 vouchers and fed 2670 individuals in need. The foodbank initially, during the first year, saw clients who were undergoing issues with benefit claims however in the last 3 years we have seen a change and the use of the foodbank has moved progressively to the ‘working needy’, meaning those who fall through the net and are not able to claim benefits and yet not able to feed their families on their wages alone.

Tea for Trussell is the charity’s new fundraising campaign (sponsored by Waitrose), encouraging as many as possible to host afternoon teas. All money raised will be used to fund advice and support services at its foodbanks across the country.

Why it Matters: In the UK, 1 in 5 live below the poverty line, so every penny you raise will make a difference to people in crisis, helping us provide short-term relief and longer lasting support. For example, £100 could help to pay for one foodbank to receive training to deliver debt advice, part of our More Than Food programme that aims to help people break the cycle of poverty by offering immediate help at the point of crisis.

To find out more and to sign up for a ‘Tea for Trussell’ pack visit: https://www.trusselltrust.org

We are ever grateful for the support we receive from the local community who, whenever we have requested it, have stepped up and made our task at the

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VILLAGE NEWS

Out-of-hours GP service cuts at Tavistock Hospital There has been much concern over the news that there will no longer be a GP out-of-hours service at Tavistock Hospital from October this year. The NHS Northern Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has confirmed that local GPs will not be based at Tavistock Hospital during evenings and weekends. People who need to use the out-of-hours

service will be able to contact a central call centre in Exeter or have face-to-face appointments at Derriford Hospital or Okehampton Hospital. There is also currently a car and a driver at Tavistock Hospital for GPs to make home visits to housebound patients. From October cars and drivers based in Plymouth and Okehampton will cover the home visits.

RAF Harrowbeer 75th Anniversary celebrations RAF Harrowbeer, the former WWII airfield at Yelverton, celebrated its 75th Anniversary on the 13th & 14th August, 2016 in fine style, by hosting another of the popular 1940s Weekends organised by the RAF Harrowbeer Interest Group, (HIG). This year’s event started with a Service of Remembrance in front of the Airfield’s memorial stone by Knightstone Tea Rooms, with ATC Cadets and WWII Re-enactors placing 62 crosses to commemorate all those who lost their lives whilst serving at Harrowbeer in WWII. Damp weather on the Saturday morning gave way to glorious sunshine for the rest of the weekend and large crowds came out to enjoy the many attractions. The Merlin engine in the full-size replica of a MK IX Spitfire, roared into life every hour and with Tavistock Model Flying Club displays, vintage farm and garden machinery, military and vintage vehicles, classic motorbikes, and WWII re-enactors, there was plenty for everyone to enjoy.

Miss Memphis Belle entertained the crowds with 1940s songs and Buckland Monachorum Drama Group presented a vintage radio play. The Robey Trust, steam engines gave trips around

the Airfield and there were regular guided mini-bus tours of the Airfield, provided by Tavistock Ring & Ride.

Chairman Stephen Fryer said, “Our 1940s Weekend is growing in popularity and this year’s show was bigger and better, with more visitors than ever before! Now we start planning for next year.”

Family Fun at Burrator Every Tuesday in August, families enjoyed a whole range of activities! We started by finding frogs and toads and making insect homes. Our mini shelter building for muddy ball blobsters was a huge success, with family members, large and small, equally absorbed in their creations. We even had a shelter with a sun terrace and umbrella!

We also held a blobster Olympics when the challenge was to make and race a mini land raft for our muddy ball friends.

Everyone used a bow saw and drill to create their own Olympic medal to celebrate their achievements.

Then we had a wild art day, creating, owls, dragons and a mongoose to name just a few. Robin Hood was the theme on our final day when families made pointed hats covered in leaves and we had archers everywhere using the bow and arrows they had made.

Thank you for everyone for joining in so wholeheartedly.

Hopefully we will continue to offer Drop In sessions in the future.

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MUSIC & ART

VILLAGE NEWS

Your Parish A Good YearCouncil for Tavyneeds Tars .....YOU! The TarsClearbrook have alsoand done many local andcaused if you would Buckland Crapstone, Combe, Buckland) has events a vacancy, by Tavy Tars Monachorum are a group ofParish nine Council singers(Yelverton, and musicians basedMilton in like to book them, contact details are on their website as are one of our Councillors moving abroad.

If you would like to know more about becoming a Councillor please contact the Parish Clerk Bere Ferrers, whose repertoire is based on sea shanties and links to videos of them performing. (clerk@bmpc.info). songs of the sea.

The Tars performed at John Lewis in Oxford Street for last year’s Christmas shoppers, Plymouth Pirate weekend, Falmouth International Shanty Festival, Plymouth Seafood Festival plus various Seasalt shop openings. Another for children of 15 years or The Society’s Summer Show was highlight was,annual for the secondFlower year running, singing oncontainer” the less, had three highly imaginative once again a resounding success, thanks to the Scillonian to Scilly and back as an RNLI fundraiser-and yes it entries.

The prize went to Elsa many members and friends who assisted.

Soon was rolly!

Mike Grimshaw

Meavy Garden Society – Report on their Summer Show Sweeting for her delightful use of after ten am on Saturday, Meavy Parish Hall To celebrate theircolour 10thas anniversary, Tars recorded CD sweets. coloured was awash with members staged their a new last autumn waspublic released spring. at Called ‘Take Me exhibits.

The that general werethis welcomed To encourage members to enter in Your Lifeboat’Ashton after the title track the album, sales from 1pm

by Michael to examine theofexhibits many exhibits, a system of the CD have raised £530 and a cheque and make theiralready individual choice of for thethe bestRNLI in each allocating points to the first was recently presented on the RNLI’s Plymouth lifeboat. The class. three exhibitors in each class album is available from any member of the Tars, through the is used for The Gordon Cross During the afternoon Sylvia Gokhale and her Tar’s website www.tavytars.co.uk, or iTunes and Amazon Trophy, in memory of a past helpers were busy serving teas and cakes, Janet downloads.

Moore and Marion Hall ran the raffle, while outside President. This year the overall Photo courtesy of Barry Perrins (RNLI) show winner was Sonja Joice Reith and David Carter sold local plants. The Cheadle with no less than 4 smooth running was the work of Show Secretary, firsts, while Brenda Burt and Kay David Winter, and Society Chairman Annie Inman.

Saturday 28th February Moore were close behind.

At 167 the number of exhibits was well up, all (now with an excellent drummer), Longfaces (originally Having posted the date of Walkstock (28th February) on over 100piece With visitors the cash classes having at least three entries, while the named The Cashiers) - this band does classic rock/pop covers Facebook, we had 42 people saying they were ‘joining’ takings were close to record levels preponderance of shrubberies in local gardens to really get the party going. Last but not least, Threes a within the firstentries few hours and8some wereplant even discussing in all areas and we were most resulted in 21 for Class Flowering Crowd- 3 young lads whose witty covers of unlikely pop babysitters!

Bearing in mind this was 4 months before the stems, while class 2 for stems of Shrub or Tree had pleased to find new members among songs keep any crowd thoroughly entertained. event, it shows how keen people are on Walkstock.

If you the exhibitors and the winners. After 14. haven’t heard about it, let us explain: It is a fundraising the raffle draw, the trophies were Memorial Hall Venue: Walkhampton Two were newPreschool, this year. but Class eventspecial for theclasses Walkhampton is for the adults graciously presented

by Rev. John Date: February 28th 7.30-11.30 17 forolder “an arrangement gardenplay flowers (and teens.) Localofbands to an overwhelmingly Weir, the Guest of Honour for the from Pat Woodgate (details by emailing Tickets: £8 available incorporating a beer bottle”, sponsored for a it is the appreciative crowd.

For most band members afternoon. Overall a very happy dayOther details: Bring your own drink. poshpat@live.com) special prize by the Royal Oak Inn, was won

by Lis highlight of their gigging year. The bands are Fallen Cedarsenjoyed by everyone!

Fancy dress theme (optional) come as anything beginning Mawhinney.

Class 18 and “A miniature garden a talented five with original material covers, this is a in very

Walkstock 2015

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VILLAGE NEWS

Sheep Dog Trials and Family Dog Show The sheep dog trials have been taking place since 1974 when they were initiated by Mr Tom Brown, an auctioneer at Ward & Chowen, as a way for farmers to fundraise on behalf of the churches of Whitchurch and Sampford Spiney. The event is now a very popular day out, as local farmers put their sheep dogs to the test in impressive displays of control and this year’s event on 27th August was extremely well attended. There are 3 classes in the trials, Novice Maltese Cross and Open Maltese Cross where the sheep dog must herd a small group of sheep through a set of gates, a maltese cross arrangement of barriers and into a pen – and Open Driving, as the dog herds a small group of sheep through a triangular course of gates and finally into a pen.

The winners were: Novice Maltese Cross - Jane Harper from Jacobstowe with Moe, Open Maltese Cross - Kenny Watson from Postbridge with Matt, Open Driving - John Carter from Delabole with Jay.

The family dog show took place in the afternoon and was designed to make sure there was something for all canine hopefuls as it included a wide range of classes such as ‘Dog with the waggiest tail’ and ‘Dog the judge would most like to take home’ as well as Best Pedigree and Best in Show. In addition, dogs could try their paw at the terrier/dog racing sessions and humans could browse a wide selection of stalls and exhibits.

There was also a parade of fox hounds by Spooners and West Dartmoor Hunt. The event normally raises approximately £2000 which is divided between the churches of Whitchurch and Sampford Spiney.

Citizens Advice Launch GP Surgery Project A new project where social advice and information can be found at GP surgeries has recently been launched. Local leading advice charities, Citizens Advice Torridge and Citizens Advice South Hams, North, Mid and West Devon, are delighted to announce the new one year pilot project in West Devon which will be offering social support to patients.

Reports from areas of the UK suggest that it is not uncommon for around one in four GP patient appointments to be due to social rather than medical causes. Poverty, money, relationship, domestic violence and social isolation issues are just a few of the underlying factors that can lead to increased stress and anxiety in patients.

This project aims to help tackle underlying factors affecting patient well-being. By intervening at this early stage, this service will help to reduce patients from reaching a more critical

stage of crisis, therefore reducing the demand on GP and NHS services.

West Devon Borough Council have funded the project, which means that the participating three surgeries in Yelverton, Lifton and Chagford, can now offer patients an appointment with an advice specialist in the surgery.

During the advice session, the advisor will use Citizens Advice’s diagnostic tools to help the client explore, identify and start to resolve problems that are causing stress and anxiety. Experienced advisors will integrate advice with recommendations for social activities to ensure the wider needs of patients are met. If this project proves to be a success, then there are plans to extend across Devon.

For more details about the project contact: janiemoor@ southhamscab.org.uk

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VILLAGE NEWS

Rotary Club Round-Up The summer has been a mixture of fun, fund raising and change for the Rotary Clubs of Tavistock and Yelverton. Gillian Parker handed over the Presidency of the Yelverton Club to Ross Dent whilst husband Tony has been succeeded by Catherine Bailey as President of the Tavistock Club.

Yelverton Club ran a well-supported car boot sale in May and the two clubs spent an enjoyable evening of croquet together in July. On a sunny Sunday morning in July at the Tavistock Carnival, Tavistock Rotary Club’s annual 5-mile race was graced by some very special runners. Jo Meek, a world-rated Ultra Marathon runner, of Winchester Club won the 5 mile race in a time of 32m 03s. Many youngsters also enjoyed the Fun Run. Rotary Club vice President Graham Parker started the race and presented the medals to all runners.

Looking forward to an incredibly busy Autumn, Goose Fair is a major event for the Tavistock Club, as we look forward to seeing you at the traditional Guess the Weight of the Goose stall and at the Book and This and That stalls.

Throughout the autumn we are also selling crocuses to raise money to eradicate polio. Please look out for the ‘Purple for Polio’ posters at the Goose Fair and other events.

Fundraising is also steaming ahead for the Sensory Garden in the Meadows. Our ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign is proving to be extremely popular and, at £35 per brick, is a fantastic way of commemorating peoples’ support for this wonderful project.

Ross and Catherine have many new ideas for the clubs, including ‘Friends’ of the Clubs where people who would like to support Rotary can be involved in Club activities without actually joining. If you are interested, then Ross will be pleased to hear from you.

If you are interested in joining one of your local clubs or want more information on ‘Purple for Polio’ or the Sensory Garden, please contact Graham Parker at grahamparker1@me.com

Weir Quay Slipway Upgraded Contractors for West Devon Borough Council have replaced the concrete ramp at the top of the public slipway at Weir Quay in Bere Ferrers parish. The slipway is the only public access to the River Tamar in West Devon and is used for a variety of water sports ,including sailing ,rowing and canoeing .

The ramp had begun to break up, which could have become a safety issue. The contractors have demolished the old structure, replacing it with a new, reinforced concrete ramp that will see many years of service.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Liz Whitwell Managing Tavistock’s Farmers’ Market

In 2001 a group of town councillors, farmers’ and community members set up a new initiative: The Tavistock Farmers’ Market.

From relatively small beginnings, the market has now grown to 21 stalls and meets every 2nd, 4th and 5th Saturday of each month. For over a year now Liz Whitwell has been the Manager of this dedicated group of stall holders and it is a role she takes most seriously as she is passionate about locally grown, sourced and prepared produce.

Growing up in Hertfordshire, Liz went to university in Birmingham to study Geography. She joined the Navy in 1996 as a logistics officer and travelled the world visiting all seven continents in her 8 years of service. She met fellow naval officer, Nick at Dartmouth and despite the navy’s best efforts at separation, crossing oceans in different vessels in different

directions, they married in 2002. The family moved to the Crapstone married quarters in 2007, and after Nick also left the Navy, they bought a small holding just west of Tavistock.

Liz says she wanted ‘knowledge and security’ for her family with the provenance of the food she was providing and felt frustrated with the obfuscating labels on many high street brands. By growing their own food they were both better able to understand the welfare of their stock whilst also reducing food miles. A great supporter of our community through lots of voluntary work, Liz has gone back to paid work part time and has used her experience and expertise of administration and project management in roles with the Tamar Energy Community and more recently the Tavistock Cooperative Learning Trust.

Liz is responsible for all bookings at the market and judiciously vets each stall holder to ensure a high standard of produce. She believes the market should work in partnership with the town and tries to ensure a wide and varied range of stalls with high quality, well presented goods from conventional and organic production methods ranging from jams and chutneys to breads, bakes and pies, meats, charcuterie and seafood to eggs, fruit, vegetables and plants. Livestock is now a regular feature at the market which children love whilst engaging and informing where their food comes from.

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A funeral plan can save you money and provides invaluable peace of mind for you and your family. The reassurance gained from making arrangements in advance and these escalating costs are the reasons why nearly a million people in Britain have taken out a funeral plan.

A funeral plan is a thoughtful way of preparing for the future. It enables you to fix the cost of your funeral director’s services at today’s prices, no matter how much this may increase in the coming years. By choosing to plan ahead for your funeral, you and your loved ones will benefit from welcome peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of in advance.

Simon and Lucie Luke are the fifth generation of the Morris family, we live on the premises and we are available to you 24 hours a day.

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❤ The stallholders are passionate about their produce and really enjoy talking about their goods. The market is the perfect choice for anyone with special dietary requirements because you can speak directly to the person who made the product. Liz believes the market offers every day good value. “It is not as expensive as people think and often better value and far greater quality than a supermarket equivalent. You also know that every penny spent with us directly benefits the local economy.”

Liz is present at each market and is on hand to safeguard its smooth running, allowing the traders to trade. She also maintains the website, runs the social media and plans events throughout the year to educate and entertain their visitors. She is proud of the market’s success and its ethos of local produce.

Last year the market was presented with a Gold award from Taste of the West and was voted Devon Life’s best farmers’ market. Liz hopes to build on this success by continuing to strive for quality and diversity whilst encouraging more of us to support our local tradespeople. If you’ve never visited the market then Liz urges you to come along and try out the variety of produce on offer.

Nichola Williams

For more information regarding the Tavistock Farmers’ market or to sign up for their e-newsletter contact Liz on info@tavistockfarmersmarket.com, see the website www. tavistockfarmersmarket.com or follow them on Facebook Tavistock Farmers’ Market and Twitter @TaviFarmersMkt

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13

LOCAL PEOPLE

Bridget Cole Awarded ‘Best Woman in Farming 2016’ Bridget Cole is a non-stop, full on powerhouse. The matriarch of a farming dynasty, who has worked tirelessly to promote farming in Devon.

Born at Ashbury near Northlew, Okehampton into a beef and sheep lowland farming family it was expected that she would give up her dream of becoming a teacher (despite being Head Girl at Okehampton Secondary ) and go into the family business.

At a Young Farmers’ Candlelight Ball, she met Arnold Cole and they were married in 1971.

Arnold was also of farming stock; his grandfather moved to Greenwell Farm at Meavy in 1931, a tenant of Buckland Abbey Estate. Arnold’s father Henry later purchased the farm. As newlyweds they shared the draughty old farmhouse with Arnold’s parents and sister.

just 20 cows and 100 ewes to start with, Bridget and Arnold with the help of their children have prudently built up their stock. Renting then buying land, keeping extra heifers and ewes for breeding they now have pockets of land from Meavy to Princetown to Tavistock with pedigree cattle and sheep along with a few ponies for the grandchildren.

In 1978 Bridget decided to make use of the empty rooms in the farmhouse and began what would become a very successful B&B business. As well as working full time on the farm, she and Arnold took contract work to raise a little extra money: logging, sheep shearing, hay making and land/farm management. They continued to diversify and gradually expanded the business, providing livestock for both television and film. Recently “Lambing Live” has become a popular, educational event at Greenwell.

Upon retiring, Henry handed over the farm to the young couple MISCM Tavy Links Ad Aug16:Layout 1 26/8/16 13:50 1 As thePage Cole children grew Bridget and Arnold were keen for on `Lady Day’ 1974 just after the birth of their second son. With

PLYMOUTH CITY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY OCTOBER & NOVEMBER – ON TOUR EVENTS Bite Size Presentations Wednesday 5 and 19 October at Peninsula Arts Wednesday 16 November at Portland Square Building Lunchtime Talks Tuesday 11 and 25 October at Plymouth Athenaeum Tuesday 8 and 22 November at Plymouth Athenaeum Family Event: Fish, Ships and Lighthouses Sunday 16 October at Smeaton’s Tower

Wild About Plymouth Events Thursday 27 October at Central Park Saturday 5 November at Dartmoor Zoo Family Event: Archive Voyagers Saturday 19 November at Plymouth and West Devon Record Office

Some events require online booking or admission charges For more information visit www.plymhearts.org or call us on 01752 304774 Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ

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D AN IS M G EU IN E RY US ILD TH STO 0) 2 M U R HI 20 TY B O CI Y’S D F THE NG I TH LER SE OF PR OU AL CLO T L S N M I G W E T Y PL ART NO PM UN ( LO E VE TR E D EN C

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them to expand their horizons and experience the wider world.

All three flew the nest only to return to the life they love and now all have a stake in the business. Arnold and Bridget moved in 2012 and their son Matthew and his family now live at Greenwell farm. Eldest son Neil manages the family’s business at Princetown and Samford Spiney whilst daughter Beverly, an accountant, helps in the office and her husband Graham is also a full time member of the team.

Bridget is a shrewd business woman and campaigner with a long list of projects she believes are important. A great deal of her time is given to promoting farming’s value in the community.

She has worked closely with a number of groups applying for grants to help improve, modernise, market or promote rural/ farm businesses and Dartmoor Commons. Working with many government agencies over decades, starting with Farm Stay UK

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and Devon Farms Accommodation, Bridget has promoted farm tourism. She is involved with hill farm policy development, and Europe wide Common land environment management policy believing that understanding modern farming methods is essential for a harmonious community.

Bridget is most definitely a force to be reckoned with and teaching’s loss is farming’s gain. A strong, independently minded woman in the farming industry well ahead of her time, it is no wonder that she was recently awarded “Best Woman in Farming 2016”.

Nichola Williams

15

LOCAL PEOPLE

Sally Blowey A young farmer in every way

Many of you may know Sally Blowey or certainly one or more members of her extended family who have lived and farmed in this part of Devon for more generations than Sally can actually remember! And for someone who has only just passed her 24th birthday, she has achieved an enormous amount, in no small part to her loyal and longstanding association with Tavistock Young Farmers’ Club.

Sally grew up on her parent’s beef and sheep farm at Lower Godsworthy, Peter Tavy, surrounded by her extended family consisting of two uncles, aunts, siblings and cousins. Her mother also grew up on a dairy farm, so farming is clearly in the blood. Of the ten young Abel’s, eight currently belong to Tavistock YFC along with Sally, with the remaining cousins still too young to join – but as Sally says ‘they will’ !

Young Farmers’ Clubs are well known as a good ‘dating’ agency and a great way for social networking and Sally can vouch for this as she met her husband Phil during her first year as a young farmer at the tender age of 16 whilst rehearsing for the annual YFC pantomime that year, ‘Cinderella’. He didn’t play the part of Prince Charming (that really would have been a cliché!) but the part of Cinderella’s aged father instead - along with cushions for added rotundness and grey hairspray to add authenticity.

Clearly Sally thought he was going to age well and they duly started courting.

Young Farmers’ Clubs are open to all those aged 10 to 26 (although Tavistock as a relatively small club is recommended for those from 14+) from any walk of life, not necessarily farming. They officially meet regularly on the first Tuesday of

every month, however events and activities take place regularly throughout the year, keeping all members extremely active.

Competitions seem to be a constant theme, with something for all talents and interests whether it be baking, livestock handling, crop classes, flower arranging, drama or public speaking and debating.

Once a year in September the club competes in the annual ‘Field Day’, where all these various abilities are judged. This is a fun day for all, where talents can be expressed in a multitude of ways, including the less likely, such as ‘how many people can fit in a car’ to tug of war and It’s a Knockout, as well as the more serious farming subjects like stock judging or fence erecting.

They are held on farms throughout the South Dartmoor area and this year was on a farm at Diptford. Category winners will go on to compete against other Devon areas, and if successful then on to regional and often national finals.

Raising money for charity plays a large part in many of the activities organised and each year a local charity is chosen to support. Last year £2500 was donated to Pals of POOCH (Plymouth Oncology Outpatients and Chemotherapy Department) and the Devon YFC Federation, from money raised at the annual dung sale, carol singing and bingo. This year with a ‘Big Breakfast’ and a ‘Speed Shear’, it has been possible to donate a staggering £9000 to Children’s Hospice South West and the Little Princess Trust.

For Sally belonging to Young Farmers’ has been a bedrock that has stood her in very good stead for life so far. Her university application to study Rural Enterprise and Land Management

Girls Tug Of War team at Devon County Show

16

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Tavistock YFC Annual Dung Sale

(REALM) at Harper Adams University in Shropshire was supported with a Personal Statement overflowing with skills and achievements. Whilst at Harper Adams University Sally truly excelled and was top student in her first two years, finishing her degree with a first class honors. Sally is now combining full time employment with Ward and Chowen, at their livestock market, whilst also studying to further qualify as a Rural Chartered Surveyor. Sally explains that she is not so keen on the physical side of farming and is still a little nervous around her husband’s dairy cattle, in comparison to the Galloways she grew up with on her parent’s farm. As such she is hoping that a career as a Rural Chartered Surveyor will keep her in the farming world but a little further away from the muck!

Following the Annual General Meeting in October where a new Chair, Secretary and Committee are formed – a meeting is then held in November for potential new members to come along and find out what it is all about, ask questions and generally be encouraged to get involved.

For more information please visit the Young Farmers’ website: www.devonyfc.co.uk or view the Club’s facebook page ‘Tavistock Young Farmers’’.

Young Farmers’ is an organisation that not only gives a great social outlet for young people (particularly those who may live or work on isolated or remote farms), but it helps identify and grow skills and talents that may otherwise be overlooked in the normal education system. Sally is not only testament to how well the organisation works but also how it forms a major part of a young persons life from the skills it imparts to the lifelong friendships it creates. Although membership ends at aged 26 – older members are invited back each year for the Annual Dinner or to come and speak during meetings to encourage the next generation.

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17

CHARITY FOCUS

The Farming Community Network Set up at a time when many farmers were struggling to cope with the effects of the BSE epidemic, it later proved an invaluable source of support for the farming community and was identified as a long-term need - supporting farmers through many different forms of personal or farming crises.

The rolling agricultural Devon countryside with its patchwork of fields edged by hedgerows is an integral part of the county’s landscape - as are the South Devon and Galloway cattle and flocks of sheep roaming on Dartmoor. However maintaining this bucolic scene can often take its toll on farmers as they cope with the everyday difficulties of a profession which is physically demanding and often quite isolating with long unsociable hours, as well as requiring the ability to balance the books and keep up to date with current regulations.

The Farming Community Network was set up in the mid-90s – initially as the Farm Crisis Network - at a time when many farmers were struggling to cope with the effects of the BSE epidemic; it later proved to be an invaluable source of support for the farming community through the last outbreak of foot and mouth disease. It was also recognised that there was a longterm need to support farmers, and not just at times of crises, as farming has the highest rates of suicide, depression and accidents in the workplace – and so the organisation became the Farming Community Network to reflect its purpose of helping everyone involved in the farming community whenever difficulties arise.

FCN is now in its 21st year and works nationwide to help people solve issues with business, farming, family and health. In Devon there are 25 volunteers working with the area co-ordinator,

Joanne Jones, and they take on 80 or 90 new cases each year, as well as handling about 150 existing cases. The national helpline passes on referrals to Jo, as do doctors and vets, or sometimes people contact her or a member of the Devon team directly. Jo then matches clients with a member of her team who visits them to understand the issues involved and if necessary refer them to a relevant organisation or expert who can advise them. FCN’s work is centred around befriending and signposting people to find a sustainable solution to their problem rather than a quick temporary fix. Most of the volunteers have a background in farming, but some are ministers in rural areas or people who have worked elsewhere in the food industry.

Volunteers can be faced with a whole raft of issues, some of which can be resolved with a couple of phone calls, while others require ongoing support for several years. Farmers have to deal with many factors that lie beyond their control, such as the weather, regulations and market prices. Last year agrienvironment scheme payments to farmers were delayed due to IT failures and FCN had to help farming families apply for hardship grants and even foodbank vouchers, which seemed a bitter twist when it is their activity that supplies the food industry. All of these pressures can sometimes give rise to cases of stress related mental and physical health problems, domestic abuse and violence which lead people to seek help from FCN. FCN can offer support and help in all these situations and the Devon branch has even put together a ‘Fit for Farming’ manual along the lines of a Haynes car manual which has now been adopted nationwide.

Devon County Show pictured left to right:John Wibberley - County Chairman; Colin Reed - volunteer & member of Exeter Market Chaplaincy Team; Stephen Dennis - South West Regional Director; Joanne Jones; David Ursell - volunteer & Exeter Market Chaplain 18

Joanne Jones runs a dairy farm near Crediton with her husband, as well as working 2 to 4 days per week for FCN and 1 day per week as a nurse. She has a very thorough understanding of the pressures faced by the farming community and got involved as a volunteer with FCN after her in-laws lost stock in the foot and mouth crisis and were

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helped by a FCN volunteer. Her role as area co-ordinator involves overseeing and training the volunteer team as well as taking on a few client cases herself; in addition, she invests time in raising the profile of the network by organising stands at local shows, talks for community groups, working with Young Farmers’ clubs and taking part in sponsored events. Another of Devon FCN’s recent initiatives is a research programme in conjunction with Plymouth University which is looking into the effects of dementia in the farming community, with a view to finding ways to help people affected by the condition.

For more information or to contact FCN, become a Devon volunteer or make a donation please call Joanne Jones on 07897 540278 or email joannejones.farmer@gmail.com, Colin Smallacombe (Assistant Coordinator) 07999 711950 or call the national helpline on 03000 111 999 or email chris@ fcn.org.uk

FCN is run entirely through donations, fundraising events, help from local churches and grants from bodies such as The Prince’s Trust. This year FCN was the chosen charity for Devon County Show and managed to raise £6000 at the event through collections and raffles. FCN has a regular presence with the chaplaincy in Exeter market every Friday and also partners with churches of all denominations to host a Plough Service in January and a Lammas Service in August, as well as the annual Christmas Market Celebration with the Bishop of Exeter on Monday 19th Dec at Exeter Market (7:00 for 7:30pm) with the Salvation Army Band, Charity Auction and refreshments.

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19

EDUCATION

Gardening for the very beginner...

BEFORE

Rebecca Martin went to visit Horrabridge Primary School and talk to Suzy Kraike from ELM and Headteacher, John Clark to find out all about their new educational garden installed this summer.

Horrabridge School continues to grow this year with its new fantastic working garden area full of food, flowers and fun opportunities for the pupils and teachers at the school to enjoy.

This has all been possible with a grant from ‘Tesco Bags of Help’ programme and funds contributed by the PTA and Horrabridge Caveliers.

DURING

In the six weeks of the summer holidays, a team of horticulturalists and conservationists from ELM (Eco Land Management) transformed the space from a derelict area full of bindweeds and brambles to an amazing learning environment of sensory delight. I met Suzy Kraike from ELM, who designed the garden and has been leading the project, to learn all about how the environment was created and what it will mean for the school.

Getting Started In my conversations with Suzy and headteacher, John Clarke, it became clear that the process was not a quick or simple one for the school, but tinged with excitement and competition.

With the original application for funding starting in June 2015, the school had to convince the team at Tesco’s to choose their project, amongst many community ideas, to be shortlisted for a local vote. Once shortlisted, they waited with bated breath whilst members of the local community also voted at the Tavistock Tesco’s over two weekends, using coins to choose their favourite project. Finally, the results were in, and Horrabridge had won the funding.

The Idea Headteacher, John Clarke, says ‘we started the application in order to expand upon the opportunities for our children to experience growing of fruit and vegetables and in order to be more fully involved in the process that leads to food ultimately making its way onto their plates.’ Along with the team at ELM, governors of the school, especially keen gardener, David Scragg created a winning design. Suzy says a key feature when designing the space was practicality. Along with all the important educational features, it needs to constantly look good through the seasons as well as being a workable space.

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AFTER

The Garden What has been created is an outdoor learning environment extra-ordinaire! Alongside a refurbished classroom, the space has a sensory garden with seating where children can appreciate the sights and smells around them. There are ample growing opportunities that the pupils at the school and preschool will use in their learning which include a greenhouse, display tables and growing beds. Children will find out about the environment through its water butts, habitat boxes and a fantastic Forest School area.

Anyone wishing to know more about creating their own haven of education can contact Suzy on suzy@elm.coop and find out about funding at the charity ‘Groundwork’ on 0121 237 5780.

21

EDUCATION

A community garden with learning opportunities for all…

Hidden through the backdoor of the Visitor’s Centre in Princetown lies a miniature Dartmoor waiting to be discovered.

We have been speaking to Pat from the Dartmoor Preservation Society, to find out about the past, present and future of the Jack Wigmore Garden and how she hopes to use it as an educational resource, where any group ‘can be touched by the wild’.

ground up pieces of granite straight from the moors. Ancient historical pieces, such as the 4000 Bronze Age burial chamber, known as a cist, and the old medieval cross from Ter Hill - have been relocated to the garden.

The Past

Originally created as a memorial garden in the 1990s. Pat approached the Dartmoor National Park Authority in Autumn 2015 with an idea to revive the botanical space and create an educational setting that represented all the essential flora and fauna of ‘The Moor’. Her idea was that, with 70,000 visitors coming to the centre each year, even if people fail to get out onto Dartmoor, they can learn about the

features and history in the garden. After many meetings, she was able to secure funding from the Dartmoor National Park’s ‘Your Dartmoor Fund’ and, in Spring 2016, a group of volunteers began clearing, cleaning-up and creating new aspects to the garden.

The Present

Pat’s idea was to make a space that is both friendly and accessible to all ages.

The garden is secure so children can wander freely through the plants and historical artefacts. Seating provides opportunities to rest, or just enjoy a view of the wide variety of plants and trees that have been planted. Slate labels and information boards help anyone entering the botanical haven find out more about the plants and artefacts and their significance for the local moor.

Everything in the garden is sympathetic to Dartmoor and reflects the space that it represents. The paths are made from Open 7.30am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday 49 weeks a year From birth to 8-years old Trimal House, Yelverton Business Park

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EDUCATION

The Future

Although it is open daily, the garden is not quite finished and it is constantly being evolved and adapted with improvements.

Work is currently underway to create a Dartmoor bog in the garden, as part of the ‘Magnificent Mires’ project with the help of Dartmoor Wildlife Trust with wildlife being encouraged through its plants and wildlife boxes. Pat hopes to develop it into a learning place for all ages. From teaching adults and groups about rural skills and Dartmoor’s working environment, to delivering sessions to schools and children about wildlife and the fascinating history of their local national park.

With links to Plymouth University, Dartmoor National Park Authority and Devon Wildlife Trust, there are fabulous opportunities to create educational programmes for all ages,

using the garden as a stimulus to learning. Pat says the dream would be to have an Education Officer ready to deliver sessions with local schools and groups as well as regular clubs for both adults and children from the community.

Whatever happens in the future, the garden is definitely going to continue to be what Pat tried to create: ‘a hands on, not hands off’ experience for all.

If you want to be kept informed of events and activities at the Conservation Garden for next year, or if you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer helper and learn about wild gardening, email Pat Fleming on: wylde@gn.apc.org Rebecca Martin

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23

KIDS WHAT'S ON

OCTOBER HALF TERM FUN BUCKLAND ABBEY NATUREMAKE

Saturday 22nd October – Monday 24th October, 12pm-4pm Eager to get creative? Join the Nature make team for a workshop creating wonderful natural sculptures.

Price: various prices plus normal admission costs for non-members.

FAMILY FELT

Wednesday 26th October, 11am-4pm Drop-in with the family to create fascinating works of art out of felt with local artist Claire Packer.

Price: £3 per child plus normal admission costs for non-members

MEDIEVAL BEAST HUNT

Thursday 27th and Friday 28th October, 10.30am-5.30pm Follow the trail to uncover the hidden medieval beasts at the Abbey.

Price: £1 per trail plus plus normal admission costs for non-members

COTEHELE HALLOWEEN HALF-TERM FUN ON COTEHELE QUAY

Monday 24th- Friday 29th October, 11am3pm Have some spooky, creative fun in Shamrock’s boathouse on Cotehele Quay.

On Monday we’ll make monsters (£1), Tuesday and Thursday we’re carving pumpkins (£3 per pumpkin), on Wednesday we’ll make masks (£1) and Friday we’re making brooms (£3). Meet in Shamrock’s shed on Cotehele Quay. Activities will be in the boathouse, which means it will be dry but it can still be cold. Dress for the weather. Booking not necessary but during busy times there may be a queue.

Prices: monsters and masks £1 per child; pumpkins and broomsticks £3 per child.

FREAK WEEK

Monday 24th – Sunday 30th, 11am -3pm A week of Hallowe’en fun in the house, mill, restaurants and on the quay. Get ready for spooky trails, ghostly goodies and all sorts of eerie goings-on in the house, at the mill, in the restaurants and on the quay. Fancy dress encouraged!

Price: free but normal admission charges apply.

TREE CLIMBING

Monday 24th October, 11am – 4pm in hour Sat 29th October and Sunday 30th October slots Children and adults can experience what 12pm-4pm it’s like to look down from high up in a Join the team to create your very own pine tree in a safe but exciting way. This magnificent pumpkin masterpieces. activity takes approximately one hour.

Price: £4 per child or free if you bring your Booking advisable. Call 01579 351346 or own pumpkin.

Normal admission costs for Tavy Links ad feb 2016 final.pdf pop1 into03/03/2016 the Cotehele 15:59 Reception to book non-members your hourly slot. Price: £7 per person

PUMPKIN CARVING

FRIGHT NIGHT IN COTEHELE

Friday 29th October, 5.30pm7.30pm Explore the house in the dark and experience the spooky side of Cotehele.

Wander around atmospheric Cotehele House by torchlight for this event suitable for children and families. It is essential that everyone in your group brings a torch please. Timed tickets will be issued on arrival. The Barn Restaurant and shop will be open. Price: free but normal admission charges apply.

FRANKFORT GATE AUTUMN FAMILY FAYRE AND TRAIL

Saturday 22nd October, 10am-4pm Join local chef, Peter Gorton for a day full of fun, fayre and food. Take part in the food trail and children are invited to bring along a loaf of bread they have made into a spooky halloween face. Bring your loaves (a cob loaf is recommended) to the food demo table by 3pm, as judging will take place at 3.15pm. There will be prizes to be won. Frankfort Gate, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 1QA

HANNAH’S AT SEALE-HAYNE THE BUMPKIN PUMPKIN TREASURE HUNT Saturday 22 – Sunday 30 October, 10am3pm Your little monsters will love hunting down the pumpkin head scarecrows to win a sweet treat. Buy your quiz sheets from the shop. Price: £2 each.

Go wild in the trees on your birthday

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KIDS WHAT'S ON HANNAH’S HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

Monday 31 October Dress to distress and join them for a night of Halloween hi-jinks and familyfriendly fiendish fun. Expect a night of frightful festivities including spooky stalls, gruesome games, creepy creatures, scary stories and a haunted disco with their DJ spinning the monster hits.

Price:£5 each or £18 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) including food.

Under 3’s are free.

Call 01626 325825 for tickets.

LYDFORD GORGE CHILDRENS HALLOWEEN TRAIL

Sunday 22nd – Sunday 30th October, 10am-3pm Commented on by many visitors last year to be the best Halloween Trail in the area its located in their very own witches wood at the Cauldron entrance where you can come along and enjoy the trail along with the tearooms, picnic and play area or add it into a fantastic and inspiring full day walking the gorge.

Price: £3 per child

SPOOKY DAY

Sunday 30th October, 11am – 3pm Get your face painted . Bring along a pumpkin to carve into your own ‘Jack O Lantern’, colour a Halloween decoration and make your own witches or wizards broomstick! Dress for the occasion and have fun! Price: £5 per child.

MOREWELLHAM QUAY HALLOWEEN SPECIAL

Saturday 22nd October – Monday 31st October, 10am-5.30pm Visit this haunted village for ten days of Spooktacular Ghosts, enter the Witch’s Den, listen to a Scary Story, dabble in Creepy Crafts, enter the Fancy Dress Competition & end the day with Trick or Treat around the cottages – if you dare! Full details on the web site: www.morwellhamquay.org or telephone: 01822 832766.

PENNYWELL FARM JOLLYWEEN AT PENNYWELL

Enjoy a half-term extravaganza at Pennywell. Carve a pumkin, watch a world class entertainer and enjoy the lighter side of life with Jollyween.

Normal admission prices apply.

Go to or phone 01364 642023 for more information.

SOUTH DEVON RAILWAY FAMILY FUN WEEK

Sunday October 24th – Friday 28th October, various times.

Join the team at South Devon Railway for a host of fun family activities every day to entertain children and adults alike at half term, from fairground rides and face painting to bus rides and story telling. For more information, go to www. southdevonrailway.co.uk/events or call on 01364 644370.

HALF PRICE WEEKEND

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th October To bring down the curtain on the 2016 season, travel all day at half price! For more information or book, go to www. southdevonrailway.co.uk/events or call on 01364 644370.

SCARY HALLOWE’EN EXPRESS

29th October, 6.30pm Scary Hallowe’en Express disappears into the night on the 29th October Our annual, scary Hallowe’en Express for families steams off into the gloom on the evening of Hallowe’en Night, Saturday 29th October. The train features a spooky night time run in the dark down the seven-mile route, complete with scary food and entertainment at Totnes. For more information or book, go to www. southdevonrailway.co.uk/events or call on 01364 644370.

WHARF CINEMA STORKS

Friday 21st October – Thursday 27th October, 10.30 and 2pm with some 6pm showings available some days.

Please note: there is no showings on Sunday 23rd October

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Phone The Wharf Box Office on 01822 611166 or go to www.tavistockwharf.com for more information.

OTHER FUN EVENTS IN OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER BONFIRE NIGHT IN THE MEADOWS

Saturday 5th November. Gates open 6.15pm. Fireworks prompt 7pm. (No sparklers please). Join the Tavistock Lions at this popular event in the Meadows, Tavistock for firework fun.

BONFIRE NIGHT ON THE HOE Saturday 5th November, 4pm onwards With fairground rides, food and entertainment from 4pm this event looks to be jammed packed with fun. Bonfire lighting will commence at 7.30 and the ‘big bang’ starts at 8pm.

THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH WIND IN THE WILLOWS

Saturday 8th October –Saturday 22nd October, Various times Kenneth Grahame’s wild tale about the thrill-seeking, lovable menace Mr Toad comes to life in a brand new stage musical with a book by Oscar-winning screenwriter and Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and Olivier Award-winning composer and lyricist team George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Phone 01752 267222 or go to www.theatreroyal.com for more details.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

How to get the most out of your GP consultation

Dr Harriet Doyle

Kerry Ward ITEC. MAR

Reflexology & Holistic Massage Therapist

Fourward Health t. 01822 855331 m. 07795 057397 www.fourwardhealth.co.uk /fourwardhealth

When arranging an appointment you may find that you have to wait for the phone to be answered only to discover that the receptionists aren’t able to offer you the appointment you’d like, and the next available slot seems an awfully long time away. And then when you arrive in the waiting room you may see a sign telling you that you should only discuss one thing with the doctor and make another appointment if you have multiple problems. And you only have a 10 minute slot to tell your story. Many patients feel hurried by this short time frame, and it can be tough for the doctor too.

In 10 minutes your GP has to engage with the current problem which may be complex, deal with ongoing conditions like diabetes, offer interventions such as how to stop smoking, and listen out for a hidden agenda - the reason you might have come, but haven’t felt able to raise.

So its no surprise that there are calls for GP appointments to be extended to 15 minutes even though this would mean seeing fewer people; GPs in the UK often see 40 patients a day, and sometimes more, although many EU countries say

25 a day is a safer workload. In the last 5 years there has been a 13% increase in face-to-face contacts and a 63% increase in telephone contacts, however this increase in workload has not been matched by a transfer in the proportion of funding or staff.

So how can you make the most of your appointment time?

Explain to the receptionist why you have rung. This may include brief information about the condition you would like to discuss with the doctor. All receptionists are experienced and able to prioritise your request as appropriate, particularly if your symptoms are serious. Or it may be that another member of staff is better able to deal with your needs.

Your GP will start with an open question such as ‘what brings you here today?’.

This is an invitation to tell your story.

Evidence suggests that if you are allowed to talk uninterrupted for 90 seconds, you’ll be able to share the key details which will allow your doctor to make a diagnosis. This may be backed up with a few specific questions, an

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Arranging an appointment at your GP surgery can feel challenging!

Dr Harriet Doyle explains how the system works and how to make the most from time spent with your GP. needs to be checked, similarly with make-up if acne needs to be looked at.

If you would like a chaperone during your examinations, then that can easily be accommodated. All GP surgeries offer chaperones, so feel free to just ask. Don’t feel you need to apologise; you may feel embarrassed but your GP won’t.

The most important thing is to be clear and open about your concerns so they can be assessed appropriately. It is also fine to bring someone with you for support, or another pair of ears but remember this is your story so don’t let them interupt. examination and some basic tests. Doctors are trained to listen out for ‘red flags’ that may indicate that you have a serious underlying problem.

So if you say you’ve had unexplained weight loss or a new breast lump, expect further detailed questioning and urgent referral for investigations and a specialist opinion. Other diagnoses are made by recognising a pattern of typical symptoms that suggest a particular cause, and then confirming the diagnosis with examination and tests. Don’t feel you need to be to be too clever. Some people will look up their symptoms on the internet, find a diagnosis and then mould their story to fit - but the ‘best historians’ just tell their symptoms as they are.

Bringing additional observations with you can also be helpful.

You may have a blood pressure machine at home recording weekly results and these can be really useful for the GP. Likewise peak flow measurements, weight changes, blood sugars, the date of your last period or a list of allergies can also add valuable information if they relate to the problem you want to discuss.

One final thing; please be understanding if your doctor is running late. Almost certainly this will be due to something beyond their control; there might have been a medical emergency, or an earlier patient may have been recently bereaved, or been told they have cancer. On these occasions it is important that a GP is able to spend a bit more time helping them through a possibly life changing moment.

When it comes to the examination you need to be prepared to show the body part that you are concerned about. Try and make this as easy as possible - for example nail varnish makes it impossible to examine for a fungal nail infection and removing skinny jeans is always tricky if a rash on your leg

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27

HEALTH & BEAUTY Hannah Colston, from Active Devon gives us advice on the

Underrated Wonder Drug MacMillan Cancer Support has hailed physical activity as ‘the underrated wonder drug’. Public Health England and the Department of Health promote physical activity as a priority for our nation’s health. Why? Being regularly physically activity can reduce the likelihood of acquiring long term conditions such as coronary heart disease and some cancers by up to 50%.

We know that being physically active is good for us. But how much should we be doing? What even counts? Do I need to be spending endless hours in the gym? The answer to that question is ‘no’. 150 minutes a week (or 2 ½ hours) is the golden target for adults, made up of any physical activity that increases our breathing rate and makes us feel warm. They call it ‘moderate intensity’. This can be gardening, walking, housework or more commonly recognised activities such as running or cycling. On a couple of days a week we should also aim for some sort of resistance or strength activity. Don’t worry though, that doesn’t mean diving on to the floor for lots of press-ups, (although that’s great) carrying shopping bags and regular lifting, like lifting your baby, all counts.

I would encourage anyone to look at how they can build a bit more activity into their daily routine and make it the norm.

Many of us can refer to a time when we were ‘really fit’, perhaps with a gym membership or training for a special event and that will have had significant benefits. But I challenge us all to think creatively about the little things we can do to be more active each day. You definitely don’t need to be ‘sporty’ to be active.

Modern technology and various Apps are a great tool, lots of us hitting the common goal of 10,000 steps a day. But for

those who are really new to activity perhaps after illness, an injury or having a baby, it can be really daunting knowing where to start. If you’re currently doing very little, there are massive benefits to just upping your activity levels by 10 minutes a day.

I’ve started walking or cycling to local meetings and social occasions, where previously I would have automatically jumped in the car. I’m also quietly confident that Tavistock and surrounding areas is one of the most active places to live, with a strong social movement of people being active locally and I think we should take pride in that, celebrate it and help those who find it harder.

At Active Devon we help local communities and organisations to develop the right opportunities for people to start and stay being active. This may include setting up a local Walking for Health scheme in a village, or providing funding for volunteers to train as a Run Leaders and set up their own jogging group.

To find out more visit: www.activedevon.org or email: hello@ activedevon.org

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Tavistock Triathlon Club Having a go at Triathlon is something we hear a lot of people would like to do, but don’t know where to start. Added to that are many misconceptions about needing to be a good swimmer, needing special kit and having to drink Lucozade with your Vodka on a night out for fear of breaking the nutritional routine!

Okay so some of us may do the latter but that’s because Triathlon is addictive, in a really great way. Tavistock Triathlon Club want to break the rest of the misconceptions and encourage anyone tempted to give it a go, to do it, you won’t regret it.

some fantastic coaches. Swimming and running sessions happen weekly. We also link very closely with the Tavistock Wheelers Cycling Club who offer longer endurance rides, bike maintenance skills and they even offer a loan bike for people to try before deciding whether they want to get addicted and buy their own.

The Club is a growing community of people who want to achieve goals in Triathlon. For some this will be getting around their first novice event, learning to swim front crawl and for others, it will mean pushing for GB age-group qualifications.

Whatever your goals, sharing the journey makes it more enjoyable and there’s nothing like the buzz of getting through a tough session together.

So whether your goal is to tackle your first event, try an open water Tri or training with like minded people, look us up, join the fun and get addicted to achieving your goals, you won’t regret it.

We’re lively on Facebook or check out www.tavistocktriathlon. co.uk email

Between us we have a lot of experience within the club and

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29

GARDENING

Cut flowers for every week of the year…

Cutting gardens are becoming ever-popular and Sue Fisher gives us some advice on how to get started and the types of flowers we should look out for.

Local and seasonal produce is hugely popular around Devon, inspired by a long tradition of horticultural enterprises that flourished in the sheltered valleys and little fields of the South West. Along with fruit and vegetables, cut flowers are fast becoming a grow-your-own mainstay too, as gardeners rediscover the delights of having a ‘cutting patch’ to raid for

the house without depriving borders of blooms. Any out of the way spot in sun, preferably sheltered from strong winds, can produce a steady supply of posies for the home. Even a few containers will do: I grow some of my cut flowers in old

Sue Fisher is a garden designer and writer based on the Bere peninsula.

tyres, placed on root-infested ground next to a large hedge.

Starting a cutting garden needn’t take much cash either.

Many of the best flowers for cutting are short lived ones that can be easily raised from seed. Hardy annuals like love in a mist, sweet pea, sunflower and straw flower tolerate a bit of frost and can be sown in autumn or early spring. Half-hardy annuals such as cosmos, zinnia and tagetes are frost tender, needing sowing under cover in late winter to plant after the frosts. Biennials like sweet William and wallflower grow in one year to plant now and flower the next – and while it’s too late to sow now, there’ll be plenty of ready-grown young plants on sale. Perennials are easy-care and go on for years: again, raising your own from seed saves a heap of cash. Or, buy one good-sized plant now and divide in autumn or spring to create several more.

Give a corner to some foliage plants as well as flowers: both evergreen and deciduous leaves make excellent ‘fillers’ that can be used as wonderful contrasts to blooms. Choose vigorous shrubs like golden privet, eucalyptus, pittosporum and golden dogwood, pruning hard back every year or two in order to encourage vigorous, straight stems for harvesting.

Have a variety of plants in your cutting garden and you should have something for a vase every week of the year.

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Seasonal Jobs • Autumn is perfect for planting all types of hardy stock, hence is the ideal time to assess your garden to decide on changes to action over the next few months, so work is completed in time to enjoy the garden next year.

• Plant bulbs now, choosing staggered flowering times to enjoy masses of blooms from late winter to late spring. If it’s tricky to find space in borders or pots that are still full, plant in old plastic pots and transplant before flowering.

• If you have a polytunnel or unheated greenhouse, sow hardy annuals in modular trays. They’ll grow slowly over winter, ready to plant out in early spring for a burst of early summer colour.

• Also under cover, sow a range of salads for a good supply of leaves over winter, like mixed salad leaves, winter lettuce and Oriental greens. Watercress is an excellent perennial crop and surprisingly easy to grow in soil that is kept moist: buy a supermarket bag, root healthy shoots in water and then plant in wide, shallow containers.

Looking good now...

• Autumn leaves create a pageant of flaming colours to see off the season in style. Top trees for leaf colour include maples (Acer), amelanchier, birch, liquidamber and sorbus. One of my favourites is katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum) as the leaves smell like candyfloss as they turn colour.

• Colourful fruits and berries can last for months – or just for weeks if the birds like them. Crab apple, pyracantha, sorbus and cotoneaster are popular plants that birds enjoy. In my garden, blackbirds are also feasting on Himalayan honeysuckle (Leycesteria).

• Late-blooming perennials are gloriously vivid: purple and pink Aster (Michaelmas daisy); yellow and orange Helenium, Rudbeckia and Helianthus; purple Liriope and red Monarda.

Contact Sue on 01822 841895.

Email: suefisher@talktalk.net Website: www.suefishergardens.co.uk

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GARDENING

Bramleys and Cricket Celia Steven, has a ‘Great’ connection to the famous Bramley apple and this wonderfully versatile culinary staple is now helping raise money for Buckland Monachorum Cricket Club.

“When I arrived in Buckland Monachorum in 1998, knowing nobody, and wondering what I had done, I was made so welcome. I had not realised that I had arrived during ‘ Bramley Week’; it appeared there was an article in the Telegraph and the owner of Store Cottage Bed and Breakfast, as it was then, had seen it and made the connection that I was the Great Granddaughter of Henry Merryweather who introduced the Bramley to Great Britain, still commercially viable to this day, favoured by chefs everywhere, and is famous worldwide.

I thought however my work in that direction finished when I left Nottinghamshire, and wondered what to do. I had run a small horticultural nursery for over 21 years, and had been involved in Council work and tourism, planted many trees, and flew the flag for the Bramley apple. Nothing could have been further from the truth, and my adventures continue.

It started with talks about the Bramley, its history, cullinary, and whatever else I thought fitted the bill and this was a very good way to find out more about the area and meet people. This led to starting a Community Orchard for the village, a way of protecting old apple varieties and helping children from St Andrews School in Buckland Monachorum learn about local history and the wonderful natural biodiversity of such a place. It is now about 17 years old and provides apple juice locally. It is still quite difficult to find help with such

projects but somehow we carry on with help from a variety of people and a more peaceful place I can’t imagine. I am very grateful to the Northmore family for allowing us to use a piece of their land to make this possible.

I continue to plant trees when the opportunity presents itself, and help wherever I can, not to mention travelling to Northern Ireland during the bicentenary celebrations where they grow about 50% of Britains Bramleys, and Japan, who started growing them fairly recently. I was invited to see their industry and it was a visit I will never forget. I hope we can find a way to incorporate all of this growing friendship into the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

The Drake Manor Inn has been home to a host of wonderful events, Mandy Robinson has been a tower of strength and the Bramley incorporated in a great many of them, from competitions to Royal Celebrations and of course this year, the National Apple Day Dinner to raise some money towards the building of the new Pavilion for Buckland Monachorum Cricket Club.” - Celia Steven The Cricket Club, based in the village of Crapstone, currently has distinctly sub standard facilities for such a picturesque cricket club and has been reliant on porta-cabins since the demolition of its old pavilion several years ago. A great deal of money has been raised over these years to fund a brand new pavilion. Funds are nearly complete

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and with a final few more fundraising events may mean the new pavilion will become a reality very soon.

In response to Celia’s support and her ‘Apple Day Dinner’ – the cricket club now has it’s own apple orchard tucked away in the corner of the field.

If you’d like to come along to the dinner on 20th October at the Drake Manor Inn or are able to offer a ‘promise’ for the after dinner auction, please contact Celia for more details – email: celia@ bramleyapples.org.uk

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NATURALIST

Devon Hedges - a haven for wildlife Tony John tells of the myriad of flora and fauna that thrive in over 33,000 miles of our Devon hedges.

One aspect of our Devon countryside that most of us take very much for granted are our Devon hedges – well known for their height and covering an astonishing 33,000 miles, but a haven for literally hundreds of species of flora and fauna.

These mainly consist of an earth bank faced with stone or turf with shrubs or trees growing on the top. The most common tree species are hazel, hawthorn, blackthorn, holly, oak, ash, beech and sycamore. The landscape of Devon is made up of a large number of small irregular fields, mostly formed between 1150 and 1350. As England’s third largest county, Devon has an astonishing 33,000 miles of hedges, including about a fifth of all the speciesrich hedgerows in England. Many of these hedges have been around for centuries; indeed, three-quarters of the hedges in Devon are 600 years old or more. This is confirmed by the presence of plants such as wild garlic, bluebells and dog’s mercury, all characteristic of ancient woodland. It is possible to estimate the age of a hedge by counting the number of different species of trees or shrubs in a 30-yard stretch; for instance, if there are three species, the hedge is around 300 years old.

The wild flowers of the Devon banks in spring are a real marvel. Starting in February/March with primroses and celandines, they are followed by violets and early purple orchids, then the red, white and blue pattern of red campion, stitchwort and bluebells. By June the hedges are alive with foxgloves and cow parsley. These are followed by hemp agrimony, hogweed, rosebay willowherb and meadowsweet. All these plants provide nectar and pollen sources for insects, such as bees and hoverflies, as well as providing seeds for birds

in autumn and winter. Bumblebees frequently nest and hibernate in hedges.

Banks and ditches provide cover for grass snakes, lizards, slow worms and also for frogs, toads and newts. Mammals like hedgehogs, stoats, weasels and badgers use hedges for cover and food.

Autumn is a very productive season for Devon hedges, with a free feast on offer, including blackberries, hazel nuts, and sloes.

It is difficult to fully appreciate the huge importance of Devon’s hedges to wildlife.

One expert who studied a 90-yard stretch of hedge in Devon found over 2000 (yes, 2000!) different species of plants and animals present in the hedge. Some of the rare or special species found in Devon’s hedges include the Devon whitebeam, Plymouth pear, Brown hairstreak butterfly, Cirl bunting, and Greater horseshoe bat.

Devon is a national stronghold for the Hazel dormouse, a European Protected Species. Dormice are found around woodland edge and in scrub and Devon’s hedges make ideal habitat for them.

They prefer dense bushy hedges which provide safe nesting conditions (dormice

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spend most of their lives asleep!).

Hedges with plenty of thorny or prickly species such as blackthorn, holly, gorse, wild rose and bramble are particularly favoured. Dormice feed on a wide range of food including insects, flowers and fruits. Farms with hedges at different growth stages are likely to provide all the resources dormice need.

Birds that regularly use Devon banks for nesting include the Dunnock (also known as the Hedge Sparrow), Robin, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Whitethroat, Pied Wagtail, Yellowhammer, Chaffinch, Linnet (and many other finches), and the Cirl Bunting (mainly on the coast). It has been estimated that there may be a pair of nesting birds about every 100 yards of hedge on average. If that were true for Devon, there could be as many as half a million pairs of birds breeding in Devon’s hedges. However, the structure of the hedge is very important. Hedges which are allowed to become overgrown over several years have a much higher value for wildlife than those cut back every year.

Thanks are due to the Devon Hedge Group’s very informative website (http:// devonhedges.org) for much useful information. Further details about hedges can be found on their website; there is usually a Devon Hedge Week in the autumn.

Wildlife is constantly changing. October sees the departure of the remaining Swallows and House martins heading for Africa, and the arrival of winter visitors from Scandinavia – Redwings and Fieldfares, as well as wildfowl and waders from further north that winter in Britain.

Tony John

35

FARMING DIARY

Spying on the neighbours and ‘Date Night’ for the rams!

Mat Cole takes a brief look at farming life further afield, and gears up for nights drawing in at Greenwell farm.

As the days get shorter the seasonal rollercoaster with its timeless inevitability seems to tighten its grip on us all once more. Those long summer days and the holiday in the sun seem a distant memory. Gem the boys and I did manage to get away this year and visited friends of ours in Lincolnshire and Norfolk.

It was a lovely break and great to catch up with good friends and their young families and share a few war stories about children and life in general. As a typical farmer I spent most of the road trip trying to peer over hedges to see what is going on in the countryside. It was always said of my late father that he farmed every bit of land from here to Scotland, as he was never happier than when he was looking over a hedge and passing comments on the state of a field, tractor, hedgerow, flock of sheep or herd of cows! And as I am getting older, and to Gemma’s annoyance, I find myself doing the same.

Our friend Rob in Norfolk has a large arable operation and seeing the scale of farms in this part of the country it did make me question whether smaller family farms such as ours here on Dartmoor have a viable future. After spending a few days with Rob however you realise that ‘all that glitters isn’t gold!’ and these guys, even at their scale, are also struggling. Poor commodity prices, high land values, rising cost etc. etc. and they have little choice but to sell on the open market and are at the mercy of world market and supermarket cartels alike. At least on our farm at Greenwell at our scale we are still able to build lasting relationships with our customers and add value to our produce through Dartmoor Farmers and local butchers like Howells of Tavistock. Getting as close as we can to the 36

customer we can shout about our fantastic produce and the landscape and environment which it delivers and the best thing of all is that helps to sustain viable farms like ours into the future.

The sheep year starts in the autumn with the ewes and rams all thriving and very much looking forward to date night, which is timed to make sure they deliver just in time for Greenwell’s ‘Lambing Live’. It is essential we have both rams and ewes in peak condition not only to maximise our lamb crop but also to face the long winter ahead. Autumn is also the main time of year when the lambs are sold and those long months when the sheep earn you nothing are suddenly forgotten as the lambs are now ready for sale. All those sleepless nights during lambing will now hopefully pay you back….

The cattle have pretty much looked after themselves through the summer and now start to look homewards, slowly returning from the high moor. They have calved on the moor through the autumn and will come into the yards to be fed through the winter. They left the yards in early May keen to get out with the promise of spring and fresh grass, the reverse is now the case and as the weather turns and the moor goes from green to brown they are equally keen, with young hungry calves at foot to get in and feast on all the hay and silage we have been harvesting for them all summer. It is lovely to see them return looking well, but the inevitable winter-feeding routine starts once again.

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FEATURE

DARTMOOR

Farmers

Farmers on Dartmoor are working together to help raise the profile of both farming and their quality Dartmoor products.

Dartmoor and its farmers are intrinsically linked, with one dependent the other. The cattle and sheep help create and shape the landscape, an environment that draws the tourists and visitors to the area; the local businesses (restaurants, hotels, butchers etc.) support the farmers by creating a market for their products.

Dartmoor’s herds and flocks of native breed cattle and sheep graze this diverse and wild landscape enjoying the benefits of living unbound during the Spring, Summer and Autumn months giving a superior texture and flavour to the meat - a result of the grass-fed, wide ranging farming process on the moor.

Prior to 2007 support from government subsidies moved away from the production of livestock to a less complicated land valuation system (known as the Basic Payment Scheme), leaving

many pastoral farmers seeking new ways to improve their profitability and in many cases diversify to ensure their survival.

Dartmoor farmers have been particularly affected, with the majority being small beef and sheep farmers, often tenanted, making profitability especially hard. This is not helped with competition from larger farms nationwide and ever-growing demands and reduced payments from supermarkets.

Knowing that the quality and taste of the meat produced on Dartmoor is superior to much of the standard mass produced products available elsewhere, a group of farmers from Dartmoor got together to visit and investigate a project which has been successfully established in Lenk, Switzerland. Lenk has many similarities to Dartmoor and was also keen to encourage visitors, enhance and maintain the environment and landscape as well as promote its products.

On their return and with considerable support from both Dartmoor National Park, The Duchy of Cornwall and personally from HRH Prince of Wales, a feasibility study was undertaken.

This subsequently led to the formation of ‘Dartmoor Farmers’ – starting with a small committee and membership of over 50 farmers, some of whom invested into the formation of Dartmoor Farmers Ltd (Dartmoor Farmers trading name) by buying a shareholding in the company which helped get the project up and running. All the farmers are based on Dartmoor and are keen to market together to promote both Dartmoor and its products.

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Several successful years on it is now running the company as a sustainable business, post funding. It still has the support and input from HRH Prince of Wales, Duchy of Cornwall and the DNP. Dartmoor Farmers is now managed by five farming directors plus a business mentor (who works for HRH Prince of Wales), a very dedicated secretary and treasurer and a Marketing Officer who runs the company day to day - tirelessly promoting Dartmoor Farmers nationally and internationally. They all work closely with local farmers, service providers and customers to ensure the company grows to achieve its full potential.

So what makes Dartmoor Farmers’ meat products so special?

The list of aspirations and production criteria as seen on their website (which has to be adhered to by every member) will give you an insight into how seriously members of the Dartmoor Farmers Association (DFA) take their product production - from animal welfare, transport miles, slaughter , waste management and more…. And as mentioned at the start of this article, the animals are encouraged to roam freely on the moor and to have a diet rich in diversity, all adding to their superior flavour.

The Future?

Working as a co-operative brings with it considerable advantages and a vast array of potential resources. It is hoped that more products can soon be added to the list of those

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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already available, that farmers can start ‘buying’ groups to be able to buy commonly used products in bulk to make huge savings for all, and that equipment and machinery can be bought and ‘shared’. All these savings will then help each individual farmer sustain a profitable business, in turn helping to preserve and sustain the local farming businesses and the beautiful Dartmoor landscape that visitors and locals alike can enjoy for generations to come.

How can I support Dartmoor Farmers and buy their products?

Several local butchers in West Devon support Dartmoor Farmers products but you may specifically have to ask your butcher to provide DF meat.

Many restaurants, pubs and hotels also source DF meat – always ask when ordering.

If you are unable to find a butcher, then go directly to the Dartmoor Farmers website where you can purchase the meat online with guaranteed next day delivery, all butchered, boxed and beautifully packaged ready for the fridge or freezer. www. dartmoorfarmers.co.uk Lizzie Watt

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WHAT’S ON

REGULAR

OCTOBER 1-30 October

THE PLOUGH AND SHARE CREDIT UNION

We offer low-cost loans to members and non-members and you can save as little or as much as you like.

Open every Thursday between 11.00 am and 1.00pm at the DCH offices, Plymouth Road (next to Library), Tavistock.

DEVONSHIRE ASSOCIATION

The Tavistock & West Devon Branch of the DA meets at 7.30 pm on a monthly basis during the autumn and winter season from September to April in the Parish Centre in Tavistock. Speakers on a wide variety of topics from science, literature and the arts to Dartmoor, industrial archaeology and folklore. Over the summer months a number of visits are organised to places of interest in the county. Visitors are always welcome to any or all of these events.

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING

The new season of SCD starts in the autumn and the Yelverton dance group are keen to share their enjoyment. Everyone is welcome so come try it, bring the whole family, ages 8 to 80. A new beginners class will start in October.

For more details contact Brenda on 01822 852984 or Carole on 853601

Rembrandt’s Goodbye – Buckland Abbey

11am-4.30pm Pop by for your last chance to marvel at Buckland’s masterpiece as exhibition ‘Rembrandt Revealed’ closes its doors for the very last time on Sunday 30 October.

Normal admission charges apply.

4 October

Princetown History Club:

Ford Park Cemetery - Stephanie Ackland The Club meets at 19:30 on the first Tuesday of each month at Princetown Community Centre unless otherwise indicated. For more info contact Bill Radcliffe on bill.radcliffe2@btopenworld. com

person (includes admission to the property and soup). Call 01822 853607 to book.

8 October

Bere Alston Indoor Short Mat Bowling Club The club are having a friendly open day to the public from 10:00am to 4pm.

There are no charges, its free, all equipment isprovided. If you have never played before, that’s no problem at all. If you have stopped playing outdoors but would like to return to bowling indoors from October to April, come & give it a try.

8 October

Wild Food Forage with Hoots Roots

Come along at 12.30pm for a friendly chat in the Restaurant of the Prince ofWales, Princetown. Anyone who is retired will receive a warm welcome. Meet old friends or make new ones.

We would like you to join us to take part in the various craft courses we have to offer which are led by skilled tutors in their specific field. Please book early to avoid disappointment as we only have 8 spaces available on each course. £20 per person.

All day courses consist of a shared lunch.

We are just beneath the Shillamill Viaduct, Tavistock. If you wish to find out more please telephone Anne on 01822 258802 or check out our Hoot’s Roots Facebook page.

6 and 25 October

9 October

6 October

C.S. Retirement Fellowship

Walk and Soup – Buckland Abbey

11am start. Join Buckland’s rangers and fellow visitors for a guided walk off the beaten track around the estate to admire the marvellous autumnal colour. Finish off with a hearty soup and a chunk of bread in the Ox Yard. Booking essential, £11 per

Wedding Open Day at Bedford Hotel

The Bedford Hotel makes the perfect wedding venue, and we’d love to show you round. Join us for one of our Wedding Open Days – we’ll show you our facilities, and you’ll be able to discuss your requirements and wishes with one of our

Gifts • Cards Accessories Bespoke Crafts Occasion Flowers*

Thistle Do Nicely Leg O Mutton Yelverton PL20 6AA

*to order Follow us on Facebook & Twitter

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WHAT’S ON dedicated Wedding Coordinators. No need to book – just pop in between 11am and 3pm.

National Park.

General meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at 2.30pm in the Woolwell Community Centre.

11 October

Painting and Sketching class at The Garden House

Paint and sketch the garden, if weather permits this class will be partly outside for autumn inspiration so you can learn new skills and brush up old ones. £30 includes tea and coffee. There are just a few places left so please book soon. More details online, easy booking by phone 01822 854769 or email, office@ thegardenhouse.org.uk.

12 October

Tavistock Goose Fair

Plymouth Road and Bedford Square are closed to traffic and become brief home to market stalls, side-shows, fairground rides, food stands and general merriment! As well as being a huge event in the annual calendar for the people of Tavistock, Goose Fair also draws in thousands of visitors from throughout Devon.

12 October

Goose Auction - Countryside Comes to Town

Traditional goose and poultry auction, crafts and demonstrations – held at Tavistock Cattle Market, Whitchurch Road.

10am – 5am Free entry for all. Goose auction at 2pm.

Moors Edge U3A

13, 14 and 15 October

Buckland Monachorum Drama Group – Autumn production ‘Out of Focus’

Speaker: Bill Hitchens - Dartmoor and the

15 October

Stannary Brass Band Proms Concert

A comedy by Peter Gordon. See the chaos that occurs when the village hall is booked simultaneously by the badminton players, the Brownies, the pantomime cast and Leonard, who says he has booked the hall for an illustrated talk on steam locomotives. They all come together to put on a panto and at the after show party everyone receives their just rewards!

Performances start at 19.30 on October 13th, 14th and 15th at Buckland Village Hall Tickets £6 - phone 01822 855336 or email tickets@bucklandmonachorum.org. uk

Tavistock Methodist Church 7.30pm.

With the Plymouth Area Police Choir.

Tickets £7 (under 18s £2). Tickets available from Ward & Chowen Offices (Tavistock & Yelverton)

15 October

18 October

Clearbrook - Jekyll and Hyde by the Pantaloons theatre group.

Come and enjoy an entertaining evening with this talented, imaginative group.

There will be a bar. 7.30pm Contact Sue and Cliff on 01822 854692 for tickets.

More details at clearbrookdevon.wix.com/ clearbrook 15 October

Flute Cocktail

13 October

refreshments available. Money raised will go towards the organ fund. The concert is to raise money for the Church Organ Fund and to purchase new music for Flute Cocktail.

The flute quartet ‘Flute Cocktail’ will be performing in St John’s Church, Horrabridge, at 7.30pm. There will be

ANTIQUES, JEWELLERY & CERAMICS VALUATION DAY TAVISTOCK

18 October

Yelverton & District Local History Society

“Reputation and Slander in Devon; How to Swear like an Elizabethan” A talk by Dr. Todd Gray at Meavy Parish Hall at 7.30 pm. More details available on our website www.yelvertonhistory.org.uk

Film Supper – Hotel Endsleigh

The Revenant (Leonardo DiCaprio & Tom Hardy) Start 6.30pm £27pp including 2 course dinner. Booking essential: 01822 870000 20 October

C.S Retirement Fellowship Outing

Join us on an Epicurean Mystery Coach Tour. There will be Lunch and Dinner stops included. Pick-up Points will be from Tavistock, Yelverton and Princetown plus anywhere in between. If you are

To find out about...

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Thursday 10th November 10.00am - 1.00pm at The Bedford Hotel Plymouth Road Tavistock

Helen Bradley (1900-1979) Piccadilly, Manchester 1915 Sold for £115,000

St. Edmund’s Court, Okehampton Street, Exeter EX4 1DU T: 01392 413100 W: www.bhandl.co.uk E: enquiries@bhandl.co.uk

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON in your local area VISIT

Dartmoorlinks.co.uk 41

WHAT’S ON retired you are welcome. BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL- Reservations will be taken at our meeting on 6th or ring Mike on 01822890799.

22 - 31 October

Childrens Hallowe’en Trail Lydford Gorge

21 October

10am-3pm Commented on by many visitors last year to be the best Halloween Trail in the area its located in their very own witches wood at the Cauldron entrance where you can come along and enjoy the trail along with the tearooms, picnic and play area or add it into a fantastic and inspiring full day walking the gorge.

Price: £3 per child

Tavistock & West Devon – Devonshire Association

22-24 October

20 October

Liam Steevenson’s Wine Dinner – Hotel Endsleigh

Spanish wine dinner. £75 including 5 course dinner. Booking essential 01822 870000

An illustrated talk by Sue Viccars, editor of the Dartmoor Magazine at the Tavistock Parish Centre, Plymouth Road at 7.30 pm 22 October

Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir Concert Concert at St Eustachius Church, Tavistock.

Guests Marazion Apollo Male Choir, 7pm 22 October

Buckland’s Great Barn Dance – Buckland Abbey

Join us for a raucous evening of dancing and making merry as we welcome ‘Fox Amongst the Chickens’ to perform in Buckland’s Great Barn for a traditional barn dance. 6-10pm Booking essential, tickets costs £5 adults, £3 children plus booking fee. Visit our website or call 0344 249 1895 to book.

Naturemake – Buckland Abbey

12noon-4pm Join the Naturemake team to make autumnal themed works of art out of natural materials found around the Buckland Abbey estate and beyond.

Let your imagination run wild by creating mysterious islands, woodland scenes and more. Normal admission charges apply plus activity charge (£3+).

26 October

Family Felt – Buckland Abbey 11am-4pm The Wet Felting Company return to Buckland Abbey for their fun felting workshop for families. Normal admission charges apply plus £3 per person.

26 October

Introduction to Spinning – Hoots Roots

Spinning. Hoots Roots, Shilla Mill £35 for the day (10 – 4pm) plus £5 materials. All day courses consist of a shared lunch. If you wish to find out more please telephone Anne on 01822 258802 28 October

Fireworks - Horrabridge

Horrabridge will be hosting another Fireworks Event (the last Friday of Half-Term) in Fillace Park, Horrabridge. It promises to be bigger and better than last year. There will be a number of events including a BBQ and other refreshments, and a “Best Guy” competition being sponsored by the London Inn. Admission from 6pm, with the Firework Display at 7.30pm - entrance £5 per Family; £2 per Adult and £1 for 18s and under.

28 October

Beetle Drive

Gulworthy Parish Hall at 7.30pm

NOVEMBER 1 November

Princetown History Club:

Weather Forecasting - Will Hand The Club meets at 19:30 on the first Tuesday of each month at Princetown Community Centre unless otherwise indicated. For more info contact Bill Radcliffe on bill.radcliffe2@btopenworld. com

Fleece Preparation, Picking, Scoring and Carding – Drop Spinning and Wheel

id al *V

* er ls FF rs ch mea O e vou to 4 % rdf this r up 10 d Oion o ber fo o ct em Foprodu 1 Dec til on un

Relax in a cosy and warm environment with friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere

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

Cyclists and Walkers welcomed as we are alongside the Drakes Trail/Route 27 Family friendly Dogs welcomed

Email: abbie@drakescafe.co.uk • www.drakescafe.co.uk Tel: 01822 617697 • Halfway House, Grenofen, PL19 9ER 42

OPEN 9am - 5pm Every Day

Qualified and insured accounting for small businesses and sole traders

BERE BOOKKEEPING ■ Monthly Accounts ■ Final Accounts ■ VAT ■ Self Assessment ■ HMRC Agent

Beverley Hughes MICB 01822 841571

berebookkeeping@hotmail.co.uk www.berebookkeeping.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON 2 November

5 November

Christmas Fair – Lewtrenchard Manor

Fireworks – Tavistock Meadows

In aid of Devon Air Ambulance. Entry £3.50 or entry & lunch £8.50. Mrs Murray’s fair returns for its 4th year welcoming many of the same stall holders along with some exciting newcomers.

10am – 4pm

across the country with its innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition. www.villagesinaction.co.uk

Gates to the Meadows at the college end will open at 6.15pm. Display starts at 7pm prompt. Adults £5, unaccompanied children under 16 £1.

10 November

Moors Edge U3A

Speaker: Diane Lawler - WW1 Postcards General meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at 2.30pm in the Woolwell Community Centre.

5 & 6 November

Winter Craft Fair – Cotehele NT

3 November

Choir Concert

St Andrew’s Singers with Dartmoor U3A Singers. A varied programme, including solos and poems. At Tavistock Methodist Church at 7.30pm. In aid of the RNLI and Macmillan Cancer Nurses.Tickets £5 available on the door or from Book Stop in Tavistock or Bere Alston Pharmacy.

5 November

Clearbrook Fireworks

Bonfire will be lit at 6.30 pm and the fireworks will start at 7.00 pm. There will be tasty refreshments so come and join us at this popular, annual event! More details at clearbrookdevon.wix.com/clearbrook

10 November

This annual winter craft fair features local art and craft makers exhibiting and selling a selection of handmade and affordable gifts. Free entry 11- 4pm.

Valuation Morning of Antiques – Bedford Hotel

Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood valuation of antiques, jewellery & ceramics. 10am – 1pm. Offering advice and valuations on items you may be thinking of selling at auction. No appointment necessary.

8 November

Ninebarrow – Award winning Folk Duo

St Leonard’s Church, Sheepstor . Doors will open at 7.00pm for refreshments and the performance by Ninebarrow will start at 7.30pm. Ticket prices are £9 for adults, £7 for children, available on 01822 853186 or e-mail drdartmoor@doctors.org.uk.

Ninebarrow is a multi-award-winning folk duo, which is impressing audiences

12 Nov – 31 December

60th Anniversary Christmas Garland – Cotehele The garland is complete, the log fire is burning – join us to admire this 60th anniversary 60-foot masterpiece and enjoy music by a variety of local choirs

YELVERTON CINEMA Autumn Film Programme HELD AT YELVERTON CHURCH HALL Saturday Evenings Café Cinema Oct 15th

Florence Foster Jenkins (PG)

Nov 19th

Bridge of Spies (12A)

Children’s Cinema Oct 15th

Nov 19th Morning screening

Doors open 7.15pm • Films start at 8pm BYO and refreshments available £4 on the door

Goosebumps (PG)

Afternoon screening

Doors open 3.45 Film starts 4pm

The Secret Life of Pets (U) TBC Doors open 10.45 Film starts 11.15am

Special Family Evening Screening Saturday December 10th at 6pm Film to be confirmed Doors Open 5.30

Feature film at 6pm

Suggested donation £2

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

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

43

WHAT’S ON genuinely charming classic, the show promises to be family entertainment at it’s very best. Tickets, venues and times are available online from www.tavonians. org.uk

and groups performing under it. Normal admission charges apply. 11 – 4pm 12-13 November

Christmas Craft and Food Fair – Buckland Abbey

10am-4.30pm Buckland Abbey’s annual Christmas Fair returns with over 40 stalls of the finest food, drink and crafts from around the South West and beyond. This year with a free park and ride service from Harrowbeer Aerodrome (blue badge parking only at Buckland Abbey). £3 entry to fair for non-members, normal admission charges apply to enter the Abbey. National Trust members free.

12 November

The Railway Children – Tavonians Theatre Company Tavonians Theatre Company return to the Wharf, and will tour local villages in November with Mike Kenny’s wonderful adaptation of E Nesbit’s classic tale. A

15 November

Yelverton & District Local History Society

18 November

Tavistock & West Devon – Devonshire Association

An illustrated talk by Dr David Dixon, BBC Wild Life expert and broadcaster.

Tavistock Parish Centre, Plymouth Road at 7.30 pm.

19 November

“The Bloudie Bloke – a 400-year-old tale of Bickleigh, Tavistock & Twickenham” A talk by Dr. Tom Greeves (+ raffle) at Meavy Parish Hall at 7.30 pm. More details available on our website www. yelvertonhistory.org.uk

Pudsey’s Day of Morris

17 November

22 November

Flower Workshop with Amanda Randell

Learn to create a floral boho crown with Master Florist Amanda Randell. £67 to include lunch, glass of wine and materials.

Hotel Endsleigh from 9.30am. Booking Essential. 01822 870 000

Ten Morris sides join Dartmoor Border Morris for a day of dancing in Bedford Square Tavistock to raise money for BBC Children in Need. Start from 10am. All welcome to join in and have a go!

Princetown Neighbourhood Watch Meeting

Commences at 8.00pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales, Princetown. All residents of the Dartmoor Forest Parish Council area are welcome to attend. Did you know that some insurance companies

TAVISTOCK’S MOST FLEXIBLE VENUE Whether you’re holding a gala dinner, a wedding, planning a dinner dance, or even an exercise class, our facilities and friendly and experienced staff make our elegant Gothic building at the heart of Tavistock the ideal place to hold your event.

Fully Licensed Bar Licensed for Civil Ceremonies Seating for up to 190 People Call Ross and his team today to Full Disabled Access discuss your needs and reserve Modern Kitchen Facilities your time and date Full Days Hire from £470 townhall@tavistock.gov.uk www.tavistock.gov.uk

Tavistock Town Hall Bedford Square Tavistock PL19 0AE 44

01822 617232

Call Ross and his team today to discuss your needs and reserve your time

T. 01822 617232 E. townhall@tavistock.gov.uk www.tavistocktownhall.co.uk Tavistock Town Hall, Bedford Square, Tavistock, PL19 0A To promote your business to 15,000 homes - call 01822 615627

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WHAT’S ON offer a discount on your Home Insurance Policy to members of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme? Membership is free.

24 November

Trees of Light – Tavistock

Lion’s Club will turn on this year’s Trees of Light on the Town Hall, Bedford Square at 7pm 25 November

Christmas From the Hedgerow – Hoots Roots Workshop

Willow Wreath, Willow Stars, Small Willow Christmas Tree – Price £35 for day (10 am – 4 pm) plus Materials £7.50. All day courses consist of a shared lunch. If you wish to find out more please telephone Anne on 01822 258802 25 November Dickensian Evening – Tavistock Christmas lights switch on at 6pm in Bedford Square followed by late night shopping throughout the town.

27 November

‘MOVEMBER’ Christmas Fair

Hosted by the Rock Inn for Cancer Research UK This festive event runs from 11 am – 5 pm. There will be fabulous local crafts and delicious Christmas produce. Enjoy mulled wine and nibbles. Entry is free. Some stalls available: contact: 01822 855003

27 November

3 - 11 December

Christmas Bazaar

A Festival of Nativity Scenes

At Gulworthy Parish Hall 2pm until 4.30pm all in aid of hall funds

DECEMBER 1 December

C.S. Retirement Fellowship

Come along for a friendly chat at 12.30pm in the restaurant of the Prince of Wales, Princetown. Anyone who is retired will receive a warm welcome. Meet old friends or make new ones. Our Guest Speaker will be Adrienne Hesketh with her musical presentation of ‘Christmas Traditions Around the World’.

3 December

Concert For Christmas CHSW

The Yelverton and district friends group for Children’s Hospice South West invite you to a concert by the Tavistock Stannary Brass Band. The friends group hosteda successful concert last year at the church to celebrate the Queens reign and would like you to join them again this time to celebrate “Christmas”. The concert for Christmas will be held at St. Mary the virgin church Walkhampton. Doors open 6-30pm. Concert begins 7-30pm. Entrance £7 to include refreshments. Bumper raffle. Plenty of parking. All proceeds to CHSW. More information ring Linda 01822 852142...... Sheila 01822 859215

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

St John’s Church, Horrabridge, from 3rd 11th December, from 10.30am - 4pm each day (from 12noon on Sundays). This is now an annual event, when the church is filled with Nativity Scenes in a variety of media: wood, wool, paper, flowers, and so on, all created by members of local organisations and churches, and also individuals. The effect is magical and the event has grown in popularity over the last two years. Entry is by donation 6 December

Princetown History Club:

AGM and Christmas Meeting, Prince of Wales Pub, Princetown.

The Club meets at 19:30 on the first Tuesday of each month at Princetown Community Centre unless otherwise indicated. For more info contact Bill Radcliffe on bill.radcliffe2@btopenworld. com

We have included as many events as possible here in the magazine but for a full and comprehensive list please see our new community website: www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk All event listings are FREE. Send details to editorial@ moorlinks.co.uk or upload directly to our website by pressing the SUBMIT button.

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Saturday 29th October

Star Wars invades Planet Pannier Darth Vader and a host of costumed Star Wars characters will be landing at Tavistock Pannier Market on 29th October 2016 to attend our Sci Fi themed event as the market becomes Planet Pannier for the day.

Children can follow the Planet Treasure Trails and receive a free prize on completion as well as take part in a Jedi training session with one of the Star Wars characters.

Come and take your photo with Darth Vader or Kylo Ren or maybe a Stormtrooper. Why not join in the fun by coming along in costume yourself! The market traders will provide the supporting cast including Princess Leia, BB8 and even an Ewok along with The Men in Black, the Star Trek crew and a mind boggling variety of aliens.

This FREE event will run from 10 am to 3 pm with guest appearances from the Star Wars characters from 11.30 am onwards. There will be opportunities to make donations for a charity on the day.

Saturday 19th November

Pudsey’s Day of Morris Meavy based Dartmoor Border Morris have organised an event, which has been dubbed Pudsey’s Day of Morris, where following the success of the last two years, we have invited ten other Morris sides to join us in Tavistock’s Bedford Square, to dance all day - they have all said yes!

Whilst the different sides dance, you will find side members walking around with collection buckets, marked “BBC Children in Need Appeal”. Admittedly our day got cut short last year by freezing rain falling horizontally for too long, but that didn`t dampen the spirit of those who took part. Every penny collected went to the charity. Despite those potential black rain clouds, the event is always full of colour, music and passion , but also

very family friendly , with plenty of opportunities for the public to have a go.

Pusey’s day will start at 10am with Dartmoor Border dancing with the Plymouth Maids Clog dance team: For further info, contact us through www.dartmoorbordermorris. com, Facebook or call ( 01752 ) 299700

Tavistock Pannier Market • OPEN TUESDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 4.30PM

SHOPPING HEAVEN IN THE HEART OF TAVISTOCK DISCOVER A WIDE RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

WWW.TAVISTOCKPANNIERMARKET.CO.UK • 01822 611003 LOVE YOUR LOCAL MARKET 46

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Friday 25th November

Dickensian Evening Tavistock The Dickensian evening includes the switching on of the Christmas lights and an opportunity for people to start their Christmas shop and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Be transported back to the ‘olde world’ with shop owners and staff embracing the traditional dress, stalls selling roasted chestnuts, morris dancing, choirs, stilt walkers and even steam engines adding to the atmosphere.

Christmas lights switch on is at 6pm Bedford Square. All the shops will be open until late with a craft fayre in the Town Hall, stalls in Bank Square as well as viewing of the Christmas tree festival in St Eustacious’ Church.

Park and ride will be available from Morrisons.

Saturday 5th November

Fireworks – Tavistock Meadows The Lions Club of Tavistock will, once again, be holding their annual firework display in Tavistock Meadows on Saturday 5th November. Gates to the Meadows at the College end will open at 6.15pm with the display starting at 7pm prompt. Entrance for adults will be £5 and accompanied children will have free entry whilst unaccompanied children under 16 will have to pay £1.

The display itself is staged by the local award winning company Two Tigers which, over the past few years, have provided some of the best displays ever seen in Tavistock. The Lions will have their BBQ on site so spectators are asked to come early to enjoy some well cooked burgers and hot dogs washed down with a nice hot chocolate or tea/coffee.

For further details, visit the Lions website at www.tavistocklions.org.uk or visit their Facebook page or call 0845 8334807

Drake’s Auctions Drake’s Auctions Tavistock Tavistock

Auctioneers

Valuers

Sales are held at Parade Business Park, Tavistock, fortnightly on Mondays.

Viewings held from 9-12 noon Saturday and 12-4.30pm on the Sunday preceding sale.

See our website for the full auction calendar.

Antiques • Collectables • Jewellery • Quality Furniture • Household Appliances • Garden Furniture • Tools & Machinery We offer house clearance and valuation services, and take in goods at our office, every Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 4pm and Saturday 9am - 12 noon.

For more information call us on: 01822 616992

www.drakesauctions.co.uk Unit 6 Parade Business Park, Pixon Lane, Tavistock PL19 9RQ

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Wednesday 12th October

‘Countryside Comes to Town’ A more traditional side to Goose Fair day Since 1823 Tavistock Goose Fair has been held on the second Wednesday in October each year. Tavistock’s goose fair is one of the oldest fairs in the country (a similar fair is held in Nottingham), with the inns of Tavistock traditionally serving roast goose dinners. There are stories however of rabbits dipped in goose fat being substituted as a cheaper alternative.

The origins of the present goose fair can be traced back to a charter granted to Tavistock in 1116 for a fair in celebration of St Rumon, for three days, from 29-31 August. Geese were driven from local farms to Tavistock for this market, to be sold and fattened for Christmas.

Money due to the abbey from tenants, farmers, craftsmen and tradesmen was often paid in kind, which could include geese.

The monks would resell these if they were surplus to the abbey’s needs and this came to be known as Goose Fair day.

After the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539 the date of the fair was changed to 29th September, Old Michaelmas Day, the feast of St Michael, which marked the beginning of autumn around the equinox. But when the Gregorian calendar was introduced in 1752 the loss of 11 days changed the date of Michaelmas Fair to October 10th. In 1823 it was changed

to the second Wednesday in October, which is the day we still celebrate it today – this year on Wednesday 12th October.

Goose Fair now sees many market traders coming from all over the country to sell their wares and provide entertainment in the centre of Tavistock, with stalls, sideshows and the Showman’s Guild fun fair in Bedford Car Park.

For those wishing to see a more traditional side to Goose Fair, Ward & Chowen’s Tavistock Livestock Centre on Whitchurch Road will once again literally be ‘honking’ with activity, as geese and poultry wait to be auctioned. The Cattle Market Open Day will start at 10am and continue until 5pm – with lots to offer all members of the family.

Over 50 stalls will be selling local produce, art and crafts as well as demonstrations in country skills such as spinning and cookery. Well known farming institutions will also be available on the day, such as the Tavistock Young Farmers Club, Bicton and Duchy Colleges, the Red Tractor (as seen on food packaging), The Farming Community Network and plenty more. There will be plenty for children too with a treasure hunt throughout the day, vintage tractors, sheep and ponies.

This year both Tavistock College students and several local

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

scout groups have also been involved. Students from Year 9 at the College have been working on a history project that will be displayed around the market, which includes memories and photographs gleaned from grandparents and members of the wider community. The scout groups have also been hard at work designing and painting large wooden geese to be placed around the town as directional markers to ensure everyone finds there way!

The main poultry and geese auction will take place at approximately 2pm, after the Town Crier has welcomed all would-be purchasers and spectators alike.

Wednesday 12th October 2016 at Tavistock Livestock Centre Whitchurch Road, Tavistock, PL19 9BB

Come along and enjoy a slice of the country in the town….

Ann Pulsford & Lizzie Watt

COME AND JOIN US

Free admission. Follow the Geese!

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk



Local Arts and Crafts Fair



Farm Animals



Children’s Activities



Produce Stalls



Traditional Auction of Geese



Demonstrations

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Now Open for Memberships

Be part of the South West’s Destination Spa #Yourwellnessnaturally Gaia Spa, Boringdon Hill, Colebrook, Plymouth, PL7 4DP www.gaiaboringdon.co.uk 01752 344455

Do you have a Will?

Wills are cheap and simple to prepare when you consider what could go wrong if you don’t make one. If you die without a Will, you die Intestate and your estate will pass according to the Intestacy Rules, potentially benefiting those who you would not have chosen to inherit.

Do you have a Power of Attorney?

If you lose the mental capacity to make decisions, your family is not automatically entitled to deal with your affairs unless you have prepared a Lasting Power of Attorney.

We are excited to announce that on 1st April 2015 Curtis Whiteford Crocker merged with Browner Milne Davidson Solicitors in order to create a new firm Curtis BMD Solicitors in Tavistock, Devon.

The new firm can now provide a wider range of services to Clients in the Tavistock and surrounding areas.

For more information please contact us on 01822 617666 or tavistock@cwcsolicitors.co.uk 8 Plymouth Road, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 8AY

Offices also located at Mutley Plain & Torpoint, but if you are unable to attend at the office, we offer HOME VISITS!

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Saturday 29th October

Dartmoor: Return to the Wildwood?

The Dartmoor Society Annual Debate The Dartmoor Society always tries to come up with a subject that is ‘in the news’ for its Annual Debate, and this year is no exception as it will tackle the idea of ‘Rewilding’, which is part of a wider debate on how uplands such as Dartmoor are managed.

Return to the Wildwood? Is Rewilding the Future for Dartmoor?

Many people would say ‘isn’t Dartmoor pretty wild anyway?’

Dartmoor’s high moorland and forested foothills appear to be ‘untamed’ by human hands; some might wonder how it could possibly be more wild. It is in fact a highly managed landscape where farming and forestry as well as visitors and local communities compete for space with plant and animal life.

The term ‘Rewilding’ has become more widely used over recent years by those who wish to see ecological restoration on a large scale and to enable people to feel ‘connected’ with nature.

Some advocate the introduction of new species or reintroducing species that have been lost. As we become more conscious of habitats and wildlife that struggle to survive, we are naturally drawn to ideas that seem to offer a solution to these problems.

For those who strongly oppose the idea of rewilding, Dartmoor’s rich tapestry of fields and hedgebanks, open moorland and forested hills is something to be cherished and preserved. They are against anything that may see farmland sacrificed, and livelihoods threatened for benefits that are uncertain and little understood.

Speaker Anne Willcocks, is a Dartmoor Farmer and Commoner, having the centuries old right to graze stock on the Dartmoor commons. She will set out her perspective in a forthright account of exactly what farmers are up against. The clue is in the title of her talk ‘Why bother?’! Farming families have created the landscape we see today, yet ever changing ideas from governing bodies about how Dartmoor is best managed may ignore this deep rooted connection between farmer, wildlife and the wider landscape, and knowledge built up over generations.

Some of the speakers in the debate will argue that Dartmoor’s landscape would be improved for wildlife and people by a

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

degree of environmental change. Robert Cook, lecturer in Education for Sustainability at Plymouth University considers the meaning of the term “re-wilding”, and the ways that he feels it should be interpreted. He promotes what he terms ‘ecological restoration’ for long term “sustainability”. Miles King, Environmentalist and founder of the charity ‘People Need Nature’ will develop his arguments by looking at the practical details and implications of the environmental changes that could result from rewilding.

Tom Greeves, Cultural Environmentalist and chairman of the Dartmoor Society is a leading authority on Dartmoor’s history, and he will look at the cultural aspects of the Rewilding debate.

Humans have been exploiting Dartmoor’s resources, and living on the land for over 8000 years. How would the remains of past human activity be managed? Would archaeological remains disappear under trees and scrubland?

Dartmoor’s wide open spaces are enjoyed by local people and visitors. Tourism is a large part of Dartmoor’s economy, so would rewilding make people feel closer to nature or would it be a barrier to their enjoyment of the moor?

All these questions will be tackled by speakers well qualified to talk on this subject as all work on or near Dartmoor. Chairing the debate is Matthew Kelly who discusses the idea of Rewilding in his book Quartz and Feldspar: Dartmoor - A British Landscape in Modern Times (2015). Tracing management strategies and attitudes towards Dartmoor over the past 150 years, rewilding is part of an evolving debate about Dartmoor and how it can flourish, yet also to accommodate people, industry, farming and wildlife.

This day long event will be held on Saturday 29th October at Meldon Village Hall, near Okehampton, advance booking by 21st October please. The cost for non members is £20 and this includes lunch and refreshments. For more information and to book online visit www.dartmoorsociety.com/events#event96 Caya Edwards

(Photo courtesy of Steve Mason) 51

NATIONAL TRUST

Crunch through the autumn leaves at Buckland Abbey It’s always a good time to explore the great outdoors during October and November, especially as the autumnal colour starts to appear. Around the estate, trees are starting to show their autumn colours, leaves are beginning to drop and new views of the Tavy Valley are starting to appear – you can come and enjoy our estate walks daily as we’re open from 10.30am throughout October and November.

As it gradually gets colder outdoors, the first signs of Christmas start to appear. Our annual Christmas Craft and Food Fair returns on 12-13 November. With over 40 stalls attending with some of the finest food, drink and crafts from the local area there is something for everyone. This year we’re operating a free park and ride service for all, running every 10 minutes from Harrowbeer Aerodrome to Buckland Abbey (with free blue badge parking at Buckland Abbey only). At £3 entry to the fair for nonmembers free entry for National Trust members and a free park and ride bus – it’s the ideal place to pick up that perfect gift this Christmas.

For more information about what’s happening when and our full opening times visit our website www.nationaltrust.org. uk/buckland, give us a call on 01822 853607 or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

WALK AND SOUP,

6 and 25 October, 11am start Join Buckland’s rangers and fellow visitors for a guided walk off the beaten track around the estate to admire the marvellous autumnal colour. Finish off with a hearty bowl of soup and bread in the Ox Yard. Booking essential, £11 per person (includes admission to the property and soup). Call 01822 853607 to book.

BUCKLAND’S GREAT BARN DANCE

22 October, 6-10pm Join us for a raucous evening of dancing and making merry as we welcome ‘Fox Amongst the Chickens’ to perform in Buckland’s Great Barn for a traditional barn dance. Booking essential, tickets costs £5 adults, £3 children plus booking fee.

Visit our website or call 0344 249 1895 to book.

Buckland Abbey

F O O

Stroll through the Buckland Abbey estate for breath-taking views of the Tavy Valley, piles of crunchy leaves, autumnal sunshine and delicious slices of cake.

PR

01822 853607 nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland

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© National Trust Images/Alan Howe. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Open daily from 10.30am

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NATIONAL TRUST

Freaky Hallowe’en Fun at Cotehele As the days draw in and you start thinking about settling at home by the fire, the staff and volunteers at Cotehele will be busier than ever with ideas for you to get out and enjoy the season. At the end of October the house and mill will close in a week-long flourish of freaky Hallowe’en fun. There will be a ‘behind the scenes’ day in the house on 30 October when you’ll be able to visit areas not normally on the visitor route.

As soon as the main house closes for its annual conservation work, it will be all-go in the Great Hall when the gardeners will get to work building the Christmas garland, made from thousands of flowers grown and dried on the estate. To celebrate its 60th anniversary, the gardeners have been sowing secret plants all year to give it a new look.

You’ll be able to watch the gardeners build the 60ft swag from 1 - 11 November, then admire their masterpiece from 12 November – 31 December (except 25 -26 December). What’s it going to look like this year?

Cotehele details: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

WINTER CRAFT FAIR AT COTEHELE

Saturday 5 - Sunday 6 November, 11am-4pm This annual winter craft fair features local art and craft makers exhibiting and selling a selection of handmade and affordable gifts. Free entry

60TH ANNIVERSAY CHRISTMAS GARLANDSaturday 12

November – Saturday 31 December (except 25 - 26 December), 11am-4pm The garland is complete, the log fire is burning – join us to admire this 60th anniversary 60-foot masterpiece and enjoy music by a variety of local choirs and groups performing under it.

Normal admission charges apply

SECRET COTEHELE TOUR AND LUNCH AT COTEHELE

Wednesday 16, Thursday 17, Monday 21, Tuesday 22 November, 10am-1.30pm An in-depth tour of Cotehele House. You’ll meet the team as they give the house its annual deep-clean, learn about conservation practices and peek behind closed doors. Morning coffee and lunch included. £25, booking essential on 01579 351346

Hallowe'en fun at Cotehele Monday 24 - Sunday 30 October A fun-packed week in the house, mill and restaurants. Do call for details or check out the website.

01579 351346 nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Registered charity number 205846. © National Trust Images

Spooky times at Cotehele

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MUSIC & ART 8th November

Ninebarrow – Award winning Folk Duo Ninebarrow are a multi-award-winning folk duo, impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition.

Described by Mike Harding as sounding ‘damn fine’ and by Kate Rusby as ‘absolutely amazing’, Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere combine breathtaking vocal harmonies and melodies, delivering songs and stories inspired by the landscape and history of the British Isles. As well as crafting unique and engaging original material, Ninebarrow also take a widerange of traditional folk songs and rework them in their own, distinctive way.

Not only exceptional singers and musicians, Ninebarrow are also equally passionate about the stories behind their songs, combining their music with history, folklore and storytelling. An evening with the duo isn’t just a concert with superb music – it’s also a night of folklore and storytelling at its very best.

St Leonard’s Church, Sheepstor will open at 7.00pm on Tuesday 8th November, serving refreshments (hopefully in return for generous donations!) and the performance by Ninebarrow will start at 7.30 pm. Tickets prices are £9 for adult, £7 for child, available from me on 01822 853186, or e-mail drdartmoor@ doctors.org.uk . Suzanne Seabrook is organising one of her famous raffles to complement the event.

See www.ninebarrow.co.uk & www.villagesinaction.co.uk

12th - 27th November

Full Steam Ahead for The Railway Children Tavonians Theatre Company return to the Wharf, and will tour local villages in November with Mike Kenny’s wonderful adaptation of E Nesbit’s classic tale. A genuinely charming classic, the show promises to be family entertainment at it’s very best.

When Father is taken away by two strangers on suspicion of espionage, the lives of Roberta, Peter and Phyllis are shattered.

Suddenly impoverished, their mother is forced to take them from their comfortable London home to live in Yorkshire in a modest cottage. Whilst there, they learn about the railway from their new friend Perks, and soon fall in love with it. New friendships, new adventures and dangers await the ‘Railway Children’.

But what has happened to father? Where is he, and will he ever come back?

“I am so looking forward to staging this exciting adaptation of The Railway Children because the story appeals to such a wide audience” said Dianne Fitch, the Director of the play.

For tickets, times and venues available online www.tavonians.org.uk. Box Office:0845 519 6592 9am to 8pm. An amateur production by arrangement with Nick Hern Books 54

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MUSIC & ART

Do you have a story to tell?

Local landscape artist Sally Tapsell popped in to RG13 with samples of her work, David photographed her for her maiden ‘Portrait of The Artist’.

A new photography studio has opened its doors at the recently re-opened Duchy Square Centre headed by photographer David Lloyd. The aim of the studio is to experiment with light shaping techniques and effects across a range of subject matter both indoors and outdoors, which David hopes will involve public participation, predominantly on a local level.

Participation is FREE. Strange as this may sound RG13 will not charge you to cross their threshold. “Charging somebody by the hour to spend their own time doesn’t work commercially, it becomes too expensive. So if prints and downloads of the final images are needed people can simply pay for these separately,” explained David. “I will not be advertising RG13 commercially either but build the reputation word-by-mouth looking particularly for interesting stories, local characters, and local interest, which will tell their own photographic story”

shots, portraits, modelling, sports teams, themes, special occasions, formal bridal or costume, workplace, and so on.

David describes his studio “as a space for the norm and for the creative, and it would be nice to work outdoors particularly across the moor.”

The studio is accessible by appointment only as David spends much of his time travelling the world in pursuit of professional work associated with the European Tour, covering the world’s best golfers. “My next trip is the Ryder Cup in the States and I will be glued to the back of the camera snapping Team Europe.

There simply is no better competition !”

For the time being the studio business will be aired on Twitter (@rg13photo) and from time to time a newsletter will be posted.

Anybody wishing to receive this or to get in touch with David, can email rg13photo@gmail.com.

The range of work is of course as one would expect - head

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

55

MUSIC & ART 20th October

The Divide Don’t miss the showing of an amazing documentary film, The Divide, on 20th October.

Events this summer have underlined that we are a divided country in many ways. But perhaps more important than political differences is the stark divide between rich and poor which has increased so sharply over the last five years.

The film is inspired by the critically-acclaimed, best-selling book The Spirit Level by Richard Wilkinson and Kate Pickett and tells the stories of seven characters each striving for a better life: Wall Street psychologist Alden wants to make it to the top 1%; Glaswegian rapper Darren just wants to stay sober;

Newcastle carer Rochelle wishes her job wasn’t looked down on so much; Jen in Sacramento, California, doesn’t even talk to the neighbours in her upscale gated community - they’ve made it clear to her she isn’t “their kind”. As we discover these very different case histories, it becomes very clear that a higher income doesn’t ensure happiness and inequality damages us all – rich and poor.

Trussell Trust - www.trusselltrust.org © TheDivideFilm

27th - 30th October

Walkhampton Art and Craft Exhibition and Sale Walkhampton Art and Craft Exhibition and Sale 2016 will be held from Thursday 27th October until Sunday 30th October in Walkhampton Memorial Hall. The show will support the creative talents of local artists and craftspeople working in a wide range of media: paintings, pastels, photographs, pottery, and pearl jewellery, as well as glasswork, resin sculptures, knitted and sewn clothing, cushions, toys, bags and decorations. Come and browse for unique handcrafted presents and stay to enjoy tea, coffee, delicious home-made cakes or a light lunch, all freshly made and served in our friendly café.

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Commission from sales, a raffle, and voluntary contributions will go towards ‘Project George’, Walkhampton’s plan for an extension to the Memorial Hall.

The project was initiated following a generous bequest from George Eggins, and aims to deliver greatly improved facilities for all hall and sports field users.

Parking is plentiful and entry free.

Opening hours are Thursday 27th October to Saturday 29th October 10am until 7pm; Sunday 30th October 10am until 4pm.

For further details, please take a look at our website: www.walkhampton-arts.org

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BOOK REVIEW

The Well-Watered Land The life of a Dartmoor hill farmer This new book, recently published by Blackingstone Publishing, tells the story, in his own words, of Jeremy (Jez) Wilkinson’s childhood on a traditional Dartmoor hill farm. A farm that Jez describes as, ‘filled with dogs, ponies and larger than life characters’. The story moves on through Jez’s schooldays and the move to Babeny, the onset of mechanization on the farm, his hunting and horse racing endeavours, the creation of the National Park and a great deal more.

Father’s word for it. But of course to spread my wings, so to speak, and widen my horizons I needed transport. For a while, I hunted around thinking I could cobble together an old bicycle that Father had abandoned in the stinging nettles, but after discovering that the moving parts were all rusted together and the wheels were different shapes, my eventual salvation came in the form of a pig called Alice.

The Well-Watered Land is a book about changing times on Dartmoor, seen through the eyes of a man who is truly immersed in the traditions of moorland life, and who has spent all but a very short spell, living and working within a few miles of his birthplace.

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An extract from the book: I suppose at about the doublefigure stage of life I was starting to feel my feet, as they say, or at least feel the need of company nearer my own age. The family unit was all very well, but perhaps the next valley might just be a little greener than ours and I was never good at taking

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DOG BLOG

Moss

the Dartmoor Dog

BLOG SPOT

Moss has become rather famous on Facebook for all her interesting daily antics and she has kindly agreed to introduce herself here, before writing for us regularly on our new website: dartmoorlinks.co.uk. We are very excited to have her as our newest edition to the team!! great fun to roll in, wet or dry. Wet is super slippery and quite often fabulously stinky, and dry is excellent as they make a great rustling noise!

Hello! I am Moss, a German Wirehaired Pointer and I live on Dartmoor. I will be two in December, so I am still young which is pretty handy as it means I can get away with being naughty.

Goodness knows what will happen when I am officially meant to be ‘grown up’!

I am a true country girl and live next to a farm so I spend quite a bit of time with other animals. There are chickens and a horse or two and lots of sheep. In fact lots and lots of sheep, so I am pretty blasé about them. I fact, I find them a bit boring, frankly. I often come across cows when we walk up on the moor and they seem to be a bit brighter then sheep and, as they are so big, I tend to be pretty respectful when I meet them and give them a wide berth. I am especially wary of those big woolly ones with pointy things on their heads. I mean, why? Looks like they are in fancy dress or something. Very odd.

Anyway, back to more important things – like me! I have been writing my own Facebook blog for some time now and people tell me they like it. The editor of this magazine, Lizzie, contacted me and asked me to write a few words and I am a teeny bit excited about actually being in print, I can tell you!

As I am not very old, I have only seen one autumn so far in my lifetime. After I got over the shock of seeing all the leafy things falling down and making a mess everywhere, I really quite enjoyed it. I was mostly concerned that She was going to get the vacuum out (which I hate!) and start tidying them all up but, fortunately, She didn’t. Leaves are pretty top things and are

See our new community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

My other favourite thing about autumn is frost and I get very excited about that too! (I get excited about a lot of things). Crunchy, frosty grass is great for rolling as it seems to improve my coat, which is rather luscious. I am not so keen on the drying off afterwards though. She can be very fierce with the towel.

She does go on about it being the time of ‘mist and mellow fruitfulness’ (She gets terribly soppy about things, quite embarrassing really), but I suppose I can see what she means. It has been nice and misty in the mornings and on today’s walk, I sampled a few blackberries, which were pretty tasty. I have also been eating the windfall apples in the garden and stolen the odd runner bean when She wasn’t looking. I am terribly healthy.

She says I am lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world and to go on long walks on the moor and swim in the rivers.

I have just leant to swim and am rather good at it, if I say so myself.

I suppose I am quite well known in my own humble little way.

People come up to me in the street (or the pub!) and say “Hello Moss!” as they recognise me from my blog. I don’t think She approves much as they tend to make a fuss of me, and ignore her! It’s a tough life but I manage!

Moss

www.facebook.com/Moss-the-Dartmoor-dog-blogger 59

DOG WALK

Walks with Angus and Sennen A circular walk starting at Gutter Tor (Scout Hut) via Higher Hartor Tor to Ditsworthy Warren House (OS Map Ref: SX 57782 67327) On a clear autumn day, this is a beautiful walk on Dartmoor with stunning views of moorland and the local tors.

This walk should take approximately an hour to an hour and half.

Stout walking boots and a map and compass are recommended.

1. Follow the road through Sheepstor village and park at the Scout Hut car park below Gutter Tor (parking is limited here) – set off on the main track to the left of the Scout Hut and continue until you see the boundary marker stones on the left of the track and the remains of the disused Eylesbarrow Tin Mine on the right hand side.

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2. At this point leave the main track just after the stone remains and head right towards Higher Hartor Tor. 3. At Higher Hartor Tor you will have a good view of the Bronze Age Drizzlecombe stone rows, one single row and one double row, five enclosed settlement sites and huts as well as many cairns and a cist on the lower southwestern slopes of Hart Tor (OS Map Ref: SX 59243 67097. Head towards the stone rows which are well worth a closer look and then take the track just to the left of the stone rows which stays down in the valley.

4. Keep following this track until you eventually reach Ditsworthy Warren House which was used as a filming location in 2010 - with the addition of a fibreglass thatched roof - in the Steven Spielberg film of ‘War Horse’.

5. At Ditsworthy Warren House the track bends away to the right and leads back towards Gutter Tor. When you pass the Scout Hut on your right leave the track and head back towards the car park.

Do take extra care if the weather is poor, as visibility can hinder navigation on this higher section of the moor.

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FOOD & WINE FOOD & WINE

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Following on from our article on the special qualities of the meat from Dartmoor Farmers, here are two delicious recipes to try. You can find these and more on their website: dartmoorfarmers.co.uk

Meatballs in tomato sauce For the meatballs

Method

500g minced beef or lamb 1-2 slices white bread to make breadcrumbs 1/2 onion 1 sprig flat parsley

For the meatballs:

For the sauce

2 cloves garlic 1 carrot 1 onion 1 sprig of thyme & rosemary 1 tsp sugar 1 glass of red wine 1 tin of canned chopped tomatoes

1.

Finely chop the flat parsley and onion.

2.

Mix the meat, breadcrumbs, onion and parsley together.

3.

Make meatballs (size of golf balls) by rolling the mince between your hands and lay them on a baking tray

4.

Roast in the oven for 10 minutes or fry them off to brown.

For the sauce: 1.

Fry the finely chopped garlic, carrot and onion. Add the thyme, rosemary, sugar, and then season with salt and pepper and the glass of red wine.

2.

Let the wine reduce by half and add the chopped tinned tomato.

3.

Simmer for five minutes.

4.

Put the meatballs into a ceramic dish, pour over the sauce.

5.

Optional: Dot with slices of mozzarella and basil leaves.

6.

Cook in the oven (180*) for approximately 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

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Lamb ‘picnic’ pie Ingredients 225g Strips of lean Lamb 100g lean Back Bacon 1 Onion (peeled, grated or chopped finely) 1 x 200g can of Apricot halves (drained) 150ml lamb stock 1 carrot Egg for glazing 2 tsps powdered gelatine Shortcrust or puff pastry

Method 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Combine lamb, bacon and onion and season well.

If using shortcrust pastry (for a cold pie) - line your pie dish with half the pastry (leave unlined for puff pastry and if eating hot) Put half the meat into pastry case then arrange apricot halves over the meat and then cover with the rest of the meat.

Spoon over 4 tablespoon of stock.

Cover pie with more pastry leaving a hole approx. 10p size.

Glaze with egg wash and cook for 45 – 50 mins at 180* This pie can be eaten both hot or cold. If eating cold you will need to dissolve the gelatine into the remaining stock and season well.

As the pie cools pour the stock into the hole and leave to set. Serve pie cold with new potatoes and salad.

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FOOD & WINE

Wine for thought Charles Steevenson explains the price worth paying for the commitment to new English vineyards.

As the often manic summer season draws to a close, those of us in the wine trade now take stock of those wines that, todate, have served us well, and also plan our next wave of new arrivals.

There is no doubt the initial visit to a prospective supplier is, for both parties, crucial. It is not just about the wine, one instantly knows if there is going to be a workable synergy, which we will often nurture over many years. For 28 years it has always been so important that we respect our producers and are able to let their wines tell their story and reflect the passion about each and every wine we ship. Further jaunts to visit our far flung suppliers are a real luxury, yet not always essential. After all, samples of new wines can be posted and we do have the ability to talk on the phone without the need to travel.

Perhaps at present, one of the greatest joys of the enthusiastic wine merchant is not so much exploring vineyards in places with a foreign address, but actually visiting the plentiful supply of wine producers closer to home. Many people are just not aware how many vineyards there are in England and Wales. In fact the number stands at over 500, and this is growing! 500

viable vineyards who, despite our erratic weather, manage to run vineyards that make inspiring wines against the odds.

Despite the relative infancy of our local wine industry we are now respected across the world as being a very credible wine producing nation. With regular exports to over 15 countries the long term future is very promising. In a recent survey conducted by a trade retail publication, it was concluded that as far as the perception of quality and image of English wines, we came in at a very respectable 4th position, only beaten by France, Italy and Australia. Such is the confidence in both quality, value and dependability of English wine that sales are, for some producers, in excess of 70% up on previous years. Whether you buy your English wines from supermarkets, independent retailers, online or through the licensed trade, sales of English wines are soaring.

It is worth noting that the dedication and perseverance if our industrious wine producers really is very commendable. With wine produced often in relatively small amounts, the ‘economies of scale’ are tested to the limits ... especially if the key controlling factor, that being the weather, deals a bad hand. So

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much so that the detrimental effect of less than perfect weather will not only affect the size of the yield, the quality, ageing potential and of course the price, oh and ... the all-important reputation of the what to many of the critics and cynics, is an unproven product.

Do be mindful that in a bad vintage, that being one where the weather is in a very bad mood, wine producers often will make very little or no wine at all. Such impact will inevitably necessitate that the price of the wine from the cellar door will have to be averaged out to ensure the survival of the vineyard.

In a cycle of ten years, maybe there could be 2 or 3 great years, 3 or 4 average years and maybe a couple of howlers. It is always worth remembering that for the new vineyard, the very first year of wine production can be some five years after

the vines are planted; that really does show commitment.

Commitment, I believe, we need to reward with our custom and support. Do not balk at the prospect of spending £10 or more on a bottle of English wine, after all the average retail price of a bottle Chablis, Sancerre or a modest Claret are all averaging well over £10. I do need to reiterate that, like for like, English wine does always perform well in blind wine tastings. As rule of thumb these display elegance, welcome restraint and poise, reflect real style and, above all, they are usually so food friendly.

Not only do we all enjoy fantastic locally produced foods from a dedicated army of passionate producers, but now also produce fantastic wines. Try some, you will not be disappointed.

Charles Steevenson Steevenson Wines ~ The Far Flung Wine Company

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65

BUSINESS

Tech Tips from ChezvousPC RAMbling on;

Turning it off and on again…

How much RAM do you actually need? You may not have given it much thought, but there are adverts everywhere at the moment offering new laptops with 2Gb, 4Gb, 6Gb, 8Gb of memory and even more. How do you know what is appropriate for your needs?

We have come across several computers running either Windows 10, or Windows 8.1 recently which would have fixed themselves if the owner had restarted them before calling us.

These new versions of Windows use a feature called ‘Hybrid Shutdown’, which in normal speak means that when you click ‘Shut-Down’ your computer isn’t actually shut down at all – it is part-shut down, and part-hibernated. So next time you have a funny error message, or something isn’t working as you’d expect, try restarting using the ‘Restart’ option rather than shutting down – you never know, it might save you the hassle of a visit!

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The rule we tend to go by is that on a current specification computer used for home/office use, you would be best with at least 4Gb of RAM. With less than that, you will likely notice poor performance when you are starting your computer, have several web ‘tabs’ open at the same time, or are trying to work on multiple programs. If you are regularly editing high resolution photographs, or video then 6Gb-8Gb will likely improve your experience, and 8Gb-16Gb of RAM is usually reserved for the gamers amongst us, or those really seeking cutting edge performance. If you DO have less than this, and are noticing your PC is a bit slow, RAM is one part of your computer that is easily, and relatively cheaply upgraded so don’t worry!

Call us on 01822 855822 for an appointment

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BUSINESS News from Geoffrey Cox MP

Supporting our rural communities through the Bus Services Bill In rural areas such as ours, the bus is essential. It is vital for those who are unable to drive, enabling them to get to work, school, the doctor’s or the hospital, and it can drastically improve quality of life.

I understand the frustration and concern expressed by many of my constituents as they witness local services being altered and sometimes reduced and, with local residents, have fought a number of campaigns to protect them in various parts of our constituency. I am, therefore, keen to ensure that providing funding to support local bus services is a key priority for this Government.

At the 2015 Spending Review, the Government committed to protecting the Bus Service Operator’s Grant (BSOG).

Approximately £250 million was paid in BSOG last year, with around £40 million of this paid directly to English local authorities to help deliver bus services. This central funding has also been ring-fenced for the coming financial year. In addition, earlier this year, I and other rural MPs held a series of tough lobbying meetings with the Secretary of State to argue that our local government budget was simply inadequate to take account of the costs of delivering services to dispersed rural communities and that the disparity in grant between Devon and other local government areas was unsustainable. I am glad to say that Devon (and some other rural counties) has now obtained an extra £14 million in its local government grant settlement this year.

projects and infrastructure are also important. Through the Local Growth Fund, around £200 million is expected to be spent on bus infrastructure schemes to 2020. This builds on the work of the Coalition Government, which allocated around £300 million for major bus projects, as well as £70 million to the Better Bus Areas programme. Ministers are also taking forward an important Bus Services Bill to provide local authorities with the means to improve local bus services. Local authorities will be able to set required standards of service with bus providers, including ticketing and the frequency of services.

This represents a measure of real progress but, in a still difficult financial climate, I shall maintain the pressure for continued investment by the Government in rural bus services, which are so vital to the wellbeing of our communities. Please do let me know if any reductions are proposed in your area.

The Government also pays annually for almost £1 billion of local authority spending on the concessionary bus pas and is committed to maintaining that support in this Parliament. Bus

Geoffrey Cox MP

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67

HISTORY

Tavistock Farmers’ Markets Originally started during the reign of King Henry 1 in 1105, Dr Ann Pulsford charts the history of our Tavistock Farmers’ Market which is still thriving today.

Tavistock is a ‘market’ town; a legal definition which originated in the Middle Ages for a settlement which has the right to host markets. Before the industrial revolution in the C19th most people made their living from agriculture and livestock farming.

Farmers brought their produce to markets, and market towns grew up as centres of local activity. A market town could only be granted legal market charter rights from the monarch and to qualify had to be more than one day’s travelling (walking) time from an already established market.

Today, Tavistock’s farmers’ markets are normally held on the

second fourth and fifth Saturday of each month. Meat, poultry, cheese, eggs, vegetables, and preserves from local farms are sold from tables in Bedford Square. In medieval times the street markets were called ‘shambles’ (streets where fish and meat were sold); and the origins of the Tavistock markets can be traced back to the C12th.

Tavistock received its royal charter to hold a weekly market on Fridays from King Henry 1 in 1105. At that time Tavistock comprised the Benedictine abbey and a few dwellings to house the workpeople, who served the monks. The abbey had become one of the wealthiest in the southwest, with riches from the wool trade and mining. The abbot made a substantial donation for Henry 1 in 1105 to mount a campaign in France, and the town soon received a market charter. This gave the monks the sole market rights to tax the weekly sale of produce from the surrounding lands to a distance of 2 leagues (6.5 miles). This was deemed to be the distance a trader could walk to and from market in a day.

The establishment of the Charter Market was a turning point for the prosperity of Tavistock, but led to a decline in the markets at Lydford and Okehampton, which caused unrest. So Henry I granted a second market charter to the abbots at Tavistock in 1107, to confirm his support for the town.

Although the 1741 Delafontaine pictorial map of Tavistock shows three fields with tenters for drying woollen cloth, there is no record of C18th wool auctions in Tavistock. At this time wool was still a major source of revenue for the town. However, a Tavistock yarn market was recorded in an article in the Sherborne Mercury in 1750. It was one of the most important yarn markets in the southwest, acting as a distribution centre for the clothiers of east Devon. The Duke of Bedford was the proprietor and was entitled to duty on the weighed yarn. The Tavistock Markets Act of 1859 records a toll for selling wool but farmers may also have sold directly to the wool merchants, or clothiers.

John Wynne’s map of Tavistock, from 1752, shows the location of the markets in the mid C18th. They included two open market houses built over the street, and butter, fish and vegetable markets with regular sites in the streets. Some old Tavistock street names still refer to these early markets, including Market

68

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Street, Market Road and Barley Market Street.

Until the mid-C19th local farmers brought their produce in from the surrounding farms and villages on horse-drawn sleds or on ponies or donkeys with panniers.

Horse-drawn covered carts were also used, and feature in many old engravings and photographs of Tavistock.

In the 1800s the Friday market was one of the largest in Devon when meat and corn were traded. Barley Market Street was originally the site of the street grain markets, but in 1835 John Russell, 6th Duke of Bedford, built the Corn Market for grain merchants and butchers during a period of great optimism. The building was open on the ground floor with assembly rooms above. By the end of the century it had become redundant following the collapse of mining and population decline. The Corn Market building still stands at the junction of West Street and King Street, and has served many roles in the town, including a cinema and shop.

In the middle of the C19th the centre of Tavistock was redeveloped by Francis, the 7th Duke of Bedford, whose statue stands in Guildhall Square. He cleared some slum areas in the centre of the town, moved the cattle market across the river and built the present Market Hall (Pannier Market) and Town Hall. The 1859 Markets Act had given him the power to implement these changes to the centre of Tavistock and to construct a new Market Place. The demolition of St Matthew’s

Street and Higher Brook Street permitted the creation of Duke Street. The River Tavy was partially diverted and buildings along the riverbank demolished to allow for the formation of Market Road. The Pannier Market Hall was built near this road and was completed in October 1862.

Originally, sale of livestock was the most important market activity and they were sold on the streets of the town.

In the early C19th the cattle and sheep markets were held in the area now called Guildhall Square. Early photographic images from the 1860s by William Merrifield show the livestock market in Abbey Place, now Guildhall Square.

The cattle market site was moved to its present location by Francis Russell, the 7th Duke of Bedford, during his redevelopment of the centre of Tavistock in the mid-C19th. The relocation to Whitchurch Road, combined with the new railway station, meant that the Abbey Bridge had to be widened to accommodate the extra traffic.

The cattle market is now held on the first Tuesday of each month (except January). Farmers bring sheep and cattle to be auctioned, and the unmistakeable sound of the auctioneers can be heard throughout the town. Dartmoor ponies were also sold here on the first Friday in October, after the annual drift or round up. The cattle market is open to the public on Goose Fair Day, the second Wednesday in October, and farmers can show their sheep, cattle and poultry.

Dr Ann Pulsford

Using Census Records Part 2 In the last issue we discussed using census records, how to access them and what the main pitfalls are. In this issue we will look at the types of information which census records give, but bear in mind that they can vary a great deal.

The 1841 census gives place of residence (often just the name of a village), first names and surnames, ages which are rounded down to the nearest 5 for people over the age of 15, sex, occupation, and shows whether they were born in the county where they reside in 1841.

From 1851 to 1901 census records give much more information. For example, they show the relationship of each person to the head of household, thus providing a snapshot of a family group.

They also show marital status, place of birth (including overseas), medical disabilities, language spoken, and give full addresses.

The 1911 census gives added information, which can be very useful.

It shows the length of a present marriage, the number of children born, and the number of children still living.

It also gives more detailed information for occupations and nationalities. And for people born in Scotland or Ireland, it gives more exact birthplaces.

A census schedule was completed for each household, and was then collected by the enumerator, who copied the information into an enumeration book, and these are available to see online. You will notice that sometimes the handwriting is very difficult to read, and that the enumerator had trouble spelling names of both people and places!

Susan Francia Historian and genealogist. family-historyresearch.co.uk

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Visit rundleanddorey.co.uk

“Our trained staff will take care of everything, from start to finish for complete peace of mind.”

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TRADE SECRETS

TRADE SECRETS John Downing J&S Downing Family Butchers Why did you become a butcher?

I am a third generation butcher and it seemed natural for me to follow in my forefathers’ footsteps. My grandfather was a butcher in the Tavistock pannier market in 1958, and after a few relocations we have now settled in newly refurbished premises in Pepper Street, Tavistock.

How much training is involved and what qualifications do you need to become a butcher?

There are courses in butchery held at places such as Duchy College but the best experience you can get is hands on working in a professional butcher’s establishment. We take apprentices and train them in all areas of butchery, from mincing meat, customer service, slicing cold meats to learning the professional skill in preparing all cuts of meat from poultry through to beef. It can take up to four years to become a butcher.

Where do you work?

My brother Simon designed the interior of our new shop in Pepper Street, Tavistock and we both work there. We also have a shop on Fore Street in Bere Alston and run a small beef farm.

Who else works with you?

RHS CHELSEA GOLD MEDALIST 2014

My brother and I own the business and we have up to eight staff which increases further during the busy Christmas period. We have apprentices, part time and full time staff, delivery drivers and staff who help with the cooked food preparation as we do all of the baking and cooking on site. We also work closely with our suppliers; it is very important for us to know where our meat and eggs come from and we like to be certain that the livestock has a high quality of life.

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What is involved in being a butcher and how does your day usually unfold?

It’s an early start and a long busy day. I am usually in the shop at 7.30am and we welcome customers from 8am till 5pm. My day begins with phone calls, preparing orders for delivery and preparing meat for the counter. Simon does the book-keeping in the afternoon and there’s always paperwork to keep on top of. We take deliveries every day (all of our produce is local) and we cook daily on site: pies, sausage rolls and quiches as well as cooking hams and tongues.

What would you say to someone thinking of this as a career?

I enjoy being a butcher. We have a very sociable job and spend a lot of time with customers. Some are very loyal and have been coming to Downings for many years. Others are just starting out and appreciate the knowledge we can share about getting the best from your cut of meat. We deliver to a wide range of clients from schools such as Tavistock College, many restaurants, pubs and shops both near and far. It gives us great pleasure knowing our meat is of a high standard and enjoyed by a wide range of customers.

What is the best thing about your job?

Our customers! We pride ourselves on our good reputation and good relationship with customers.

Workshops available

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Tavistock Bathrooms & Tiles

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