Moor Links Summer 2014 by Links Magazines

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

Summer 2014

Trade Secrets On your bike…! Royal Marines 350th Anniversary Issue 12 £1.50 where sold

Delivered FREE by your postman to all PL20 6 and PL20 7 postcodes (a guaranteed circulation of more than 6000 homes and businesses)

CONTENTS

Make your perfect kitchen a reality...

Working with you from initial design concept to stunning completion.

Free design and kitchen survey • Extensive range of kitchen & appliances on display • Co-ordination of all aspects of kitchen replacement

• Stone and wooden flooring • Stockists of Farrow and Ball paint and paper

Summer is a season I especially love not least for its almost enforced relaxation and ‘holiday’ fever but also for the sheer number of activities going on. Our front cover image of Dartmoor Border Morris with their bright colours, jolly music and general happy enthusiasm, for me, sums up our British summers perfectly! The magazine is bursting at the seams again, despite having increased our page numbers to a huge 64. We have been inundated with information to include as well as suggestions for new sections of the magazine. As such, we have three new sections; A day out to… , written by local writer, Bethany Miall, who has recently graduated from studying an English Literature degree; On your bike, a new bike trail put together by Rockin Bikes, for all those who love to travel on two wheels and Trade Secrets where Nichola delves a little deeper into a particular chosen career. Hopefully you will agree they are all excellent additions to the magazine. With the help of our amazing web designer, we have recently given our website a fantastic make-over and with some strong arm twisting from our techie friend, you can now join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter too. We will regularly add local events and information that we can’t squeeze into the magazine! Our website: www. moorlinks.co.uk Please send us any inclusions as early as possible for the Autumn issue (out early September), but our very latest deadline is Friday 25th July. Put your feet up and enjoy the Summer!

Lizzie

Lizzie Watt, Editor editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

• Main supplier of Siemens, Neff, Bosch and Caple • Silestone, Granite and wooden worktops on display

More additions to the magazine…

We would like to say a big thank you to our many local contributors, who help to keep our magazine so interesting to all. If you would like to help or have a story or event you would like to see published please do get in touch.

01822 617240 www.charlesgraykitchens.co.uk

Please contact us via email (editorial@moorlinks.co.uk), telephone 01822 853110 or visit our website www.moorlinks.co.uk.

The Complete Kitchen Service

Editor/ Director: Lizzie Watt Deputy Editor: Rosemary Best Writers: Rosemary Best, Nichola Williams, Pat Woodgate, Lizzie Spiers and Bethany Miall Graphic Designers: Terri Reeves and Rachel Marsh

Unit 2 Pixon Court . Crelake Industrial Estate Tavistock . Devon . PL19 9AZ

Front Cover: With many thanks to Mark Tregaskis of Dartmoor Border Morris for his great front cover image. www.dartmoorbordermorris.com

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CONTENTS 4. Local People

Mad Dog Mcrae, artist Mary Gillet and musician Caroline Trevelyan-Pass

8. School Spotlight

The merger of two historic schools

15. Looking Good

Here comes the sun…

24. Food & Wine

‘Zest’ – entrepreneurial playground mums and a summer dessert recipe from Bruce Cole

36. Feature

Royal Marines 350th Anniversary

42. On your bike...!

A new bike trail from Rockin Bikes taking in Burrator, Princetown and the Moor

46. A Day Out To...

The Royal William Yard, Plymouth – more than meets the eye

48. Great Escapes

Hot tubs and a behind the scenes Art Safari

50. Business

Assistive technology and some very green news

56. History

Georgina, Duchess of Bedford

58. Trade Secrets

Insiders guide to being a Vet

Moorly our resident hedgehog has been spotted 8 times throughout the magazine. Can you spot him too? ALL Advertising enquiries

advertising@moorlinks.co.uk or 01822 853110 Or visit: www.moorlinks.co.uk to view our rate card. Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the editorial team. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Moor Links or Olijam Communications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. All data contained in advertisements are subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and are accepted by us in good faith at the time of going to press. Reproduction of editorial is strictly prohibited without prior permission from the publisher. All rights reserved copyright © 2014 3

LOCAL PEOPLE

Michael Mathieson Mad Dog Mcrea

Mad Dog Mcrea raise hands, lift feet and get the party started wherever they play, with their spellbinding recipe of folk, pop, rock, jazz, bluegrass and

Sitting in a magical location with spectacular views over open moorland, Prince Hall offers a unique, special experience with exceptional food.

exuberant music. Whisking up whistles, fiddles and mandolins to collide in a spectacular explosion of infectious fun, they demand you to dance. Michael Mathieson is everything you’d want in a front man with his tousled hair, smoky Irish drawl, twinkling eyes and swagger. If he hadn’t been a singer, he’d have been a pirate! Raised in a fishing family in Donegal in the North West of Ireland, Michael was brought up with music in his blood. He took holidays in the south west to visit his Naval father stationed in Plymouth and over the years he fell in love with the area and now lives in Milton Coombe with his family. Having moved to Plymouth as a teenager, he joined a succession of punk bands, first playing electric guitar, then moving on to vocals when nobody else wanted to sing. During one set they played a Pogues song and were invited to return to play at a St. Patricks Day celebration. They increased the count of Irish folk songs, not difficult for

make a living out of playing music”. Mad Dog Mcrea’s name is now firmly established on the live music scene, and they are in huge demand but Michael still loves to play at The Wharf in Tavistock, their favourite venue and their spiritual home. Most of the band members live locally and they have always been well received here by a dedicated fan base.

Michael with his background, and have never looked back. In 1996 Mad Dog Mcrea was a fully formed “busking” band, travelling Europe living a wonderfully bohemian and carefree existence, learning the ropes and refining their art. By 2001 they had evolved into a professional band, although the line up has altered over time as players’ commitments change. Eleven years ago they took a six month residency in Thailand playing six nights a week and returned a very tight unit with a strong, distinctive identity. Gathering momentum, they are now full time musicians, playing nationally at festivals, private parties, wedding and gigs.

In 2011 the album “The Whirling Dervish” scooped “Best Album of the Year” at The South West Music Awards and in 2012, they were named ‘Best Live Act’. Regulars on Radio Two and at Glastonbury, they now play to thousands but still enjoy intimate gigs and recently played for Jasper Conran at his 50th birthday party, for Sienna Miller in Soho and in front of Mick Jagger – who joined them on the tambourine! Sean Lakeman is producing their much anticipated latest studio album, a project the band is thrilled about. “It’s exciting working with good people, with a clear musical direction and high production values. We started off as an Irish folk music band and we want to retain that style on our new album whilst embracing the influence of other genres such as blue grass, country, folk and pop”.

Three years ago they were signed by the agency Midnight Mango who have pushed the band out of their comfort zone to play to wider audiences, promoting their music in diverse venues around the UK. “The south west is an inspiring platform but you need a national following if you are going to

Despite taking a break from the band now and again – notably to take a degree in music at Dartington - Michael is very much the face of Mad Dog Mcrea. He loves making music and that love is infectious. If you are ever lucky enough to see them play be prepared to sing, dance and make merry in the company of dazzling musicians. Nichola Williams

Coffees, Lunch, Cream Teas and Dinner Dogs very welcome!

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editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

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Call: 01822 854161 5

LOCAL PEOPLE

Mary Gillett

Caroline Trevelyan Pass

“I find the initial starting points for most of my work on Dartmoor and the coast. Most of the places I choose are ones that I know well. They are imbued with memories; I am aware of layers of time –geological events, effects of weather and human migration”. Anyone familiar with Mary’s emotive prints will recognise this depiction of her work. Her images are atmospheric; they look etched by the elements themselves.

Caroline had her first piano lesson on her tenth birthday and was so taken by the experience she immediately announced that she was going to go to the Royal Academy of Music and become a musician - and that is exactly what happened.

Artist, Printmaker and Teacher

Suzuki Piano Teacher

Of course there was a lot of hard work involved but both her father and her mother came from musical families so she had a supportive musical background. After training at the Royal Academy of Music she remained in London and started teaching the piano, later becoming the deputy piano professor at the Royal Military School of Music. She was also working as a freelance orchestral violinist and playing at prestigious venues such as The Royal Opera House. She even had a brief sojourn into the world of popular music when George Harrison asked her to play her violin for the recording of his final album - The Best of Dark Horse.

Mary’s family moved to a Devon farm when she was only three. She left school at 16 and attended a ballet school with hopes of becoming a teacher of dance. Having decided this was not for her she took a secretarial course in Plymouth and later worked in both London and Plymouth. Both of these career choices are at such odds with this down to earth, unaffected woman with inky hands. Frustrated with London life she returned to education in 1974 taking ‘A’ level art at Plymouth College of Art and then a Foundation course in Art and Design where she met her husband to be. A BA (Hons) in Fine Art in Bristol followed and it was here that Mary discovered printmaking. She started out as a painter but soon retreated to the print room to escape the fashion for installation and performance art that swept up many students at that time. Whilst being interested in conceptual and cutting edge art she preferred to follow her own more traditional style. In 1981 Mary completed a PGCE in Brighton and learnt the teaching skills which now enable her to pass on her own skills to other people. A two year post graduate course in printmaking was a further inspiration as Mary was taught the professionalism required to turn her overriding passion for printmaking into a career. Here she learnt the practicalities of how to survive as an artist. Mary joined the local printmaking cooperative in Brighton and started teaching and exhibiting. After the birth in 1987 of their twin sons, Mary and her husband decided to move in with Mary’s parents in Gulworthy while they looked for a place of their own with space for a workshop and printing press. Six months later they moved to Mary Tavy where they have lived ever since. In between pursuing her own printmaking and painting Mary invites artists and beginners alike to work with her. She provides an informal, supportive and inspirational environment where people can learn new skills and develop their work in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. “Working 6

with people is so important to me, I wouldn’t be without it. I love the contact, communication and interaction” Mary and her artists have an opportunity each Spring to show their new work in the “Fresh off the Press” exhibition at The Limekiln Gallery. It’s a display of high quality original fine art printmaking of which Mary is justifiably proud. Mary is a founding member of the Drawn to the Valley Group of Artists which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. She has been successful in competitions, shortlisted in 2010 for The A4 Printmakers and winning an award at The Bite National printmaking show in London. We are fortunate that Mary did not pursue her career in dance or in the office, as life is certainly richer with this inspirational artist in our midst. “Mary’s paintings and prints have been a constant source of stimulation for many artists working in the area. Her ability to depict the unique light of the moor and to capture those fleeting, magical moments when a cloud briefly lifts or a shard of brightness breaks through seems to motivate and galvanise those around her. Through her printing workshop, which is a mecca to a multitude of creative people, she continues to influence a wide circle.” (Limekiln Gallery) For more information you can contact mary@gulwork. wanadoo.co.uk

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

As a teacher, Caroline was always searching for new methods to help her students and when she came across the renowned Suzuki violin teacher, Helen Brunner, and started working as an accompanist for her students she was overwhelmed by the complete self-assurance, competence and control displayed by children as young as four years old. She decided to train in the Suzuki method and spent three intensive years with the British Based in Crapstone, we are a visiting computer “help” service. We come to where Suzuki Institute. She joined the London the problem is, which is usually the best way to fix things; it certainly beats lugSuzuki Group as a teacher and began ging the culprit down to us to be told the fault is not there! We are now in our working all over the country giving 11th year so we have a wealth of experience in repairing just about anything workshops. and setting up new equipment too. Caroline now runs the West Dartmoor Suzuki Piano Group in the Plymouth and Tavistock area, where she works with young children and adults.

We sell computers and laptops from recognised major manufacturers; we do not “build” computers and we do not sell secondhand “reconditioned” equipment. Our normal service will provide you with your choice of computer and our expertise to transfer everything from the old machine to the new one including set up of email accounts and printers.

Caroline is a very dedicated teacher and obviously loves her work. On a more personal note she has recently met up with another former student of the Royal Academy of Music, the concert pianist, composer and broadcaster David Owen Norris, whom she lost touch with 35 years ago and they are now in a very happy relationship.

We also sell Microsoft Office software at High Street prices and we recommend, sell and install Norton Anti-virus, but we are happy to install an alternative if you prefer.

Rosemary Best www.moorlinks.co.uk

We can offer a low cost teaching service, provided by Carol, our Office Manager. This takes place in your home on your own computer, working at a pace to suit you and is at a much cheaper rate than a technician’s visit.

The office is now open 9-5 every day.

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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

The merger of two historic schools Kelly College and Mount House School to become Mount Kelly Foundation A business merger of this size and nature has possibly not been seen within the Tavistock community for many years, so we thought we’d take a closer look at the winners and losers from this significant merger and the impact and benefits it will have on Tavistock and our local community. On 13th March 2014 letters were sent to all parents and meetings were held, to inform staff that a merger would take place between Kelly College, Kelly College Preparatory School and Mount House Schools with effect from September 2014. The schools will be governed under a single foundation with the new Headmaster, Mark Semmence, as Foundation Principal and CEO. Mr Semmence was appointed last December from Rugby School and takes up his post on September 1st. Discussions of a possible merger between the two schools, is not necessarily a new phenomenon. Mount House approached Kelly College back in 1940, needing to relocate from its Plymouth site during the Second World War, but Kelly College had no room. Mount House moved instead to its current site at Mount Tavy, Tavistock. Discussions have sporadically continued over the interim years. However, with the recent changeover of significant members of both schools governing bodies and the hard impact of a long financial recession, discussions turned to real possibility. As Chair of Governors for Kelly College, Admiral Chris Snow said, “a merger is a sensible and exciting long term strategy.” As has been pointed out in recent months by members of teaching federations, mergers of this kind within the independent sector are inevitable. During the combined years of 2012 and 2013 the ISC (Independent Schools Council) reported 26 independent schools having to close. Schools are regarded, by banks, just like any 8

approximately 550 children and it is hoped this will rise over the next few years to nearer 800 pupils – aged three to 18.

So, who are the winners? Well the obvious winners will be pupils, both present and future, and as Dr Graham Hawley, current Headmaster at Kelly College, said, “The merger will combine the best of both schools and will provide even greater opportunities for all the children”. Patrick Savage, Headmaster of Mount House School explained, “Pupils will have the opportunity to experience inspirational teaching in a highly supportive environment with first class facilities, a vibrant coother business, forcing many independent schools to re-think their situation, to sell off their assets and work to longer term financial solutions. The merger of smaller independent schools, to give stronger financial stability, is a trend that will certainly continue. This merger has been described as ‘one of the most exciting developments in education in the South West’. It will certainly help to secure the school’s success for the foreseeable future and with larger pupil numbers, Mount Kelly Foundation will become a more significant and major player within the independent school sector. By combining with Mount House, the school will provide education for editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

curricular sporting and cultural life with an extended school community of pupils and staff.” The less obvious winner is Tavistock and West Devon. The merger of these two historic schools will safe-guard not only the stunning Grade II listed buildings themselves (both Kelly College and Mount House buildings are listed by English Heritage), from a sad and slow demise, seen so often with historic buildings that struggle to be financially maintained. It will also continue to secure a significant contributing revenue source for the town and surrounding area. These financial benefits come in varying forms: It is currently proposed that after the merger takes place in September and the prep school children from Kelly College move to the Mount House site, the then redundant premises of Kelly College Preparatory School and it’s grounds will be let out to The Adventure Centre. This will allow the business to grow substantially, offering greater space and facilities to benefit a larger number of visiting individuals, schools and organisations. The school itself brings with it an affluent section of society, who in turn support the local economy. Parents of the school and visitors to The Adventure Centre will bring their earnings (often gained outside Devon and even the UK), to spend within the town and local area. Mount Kelly Foundation will also, as with all businesses, continue to

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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

CHARITY FOCUS And the losers? The first, as has been confirmed by the schools, will inevitably be some redundancies. As with any business merger, some job titles are duplicated. However, with the good name of either school on Curriculum Vitae, it is hoped any break in employment will be short lived. The second are, perhaps, some of the existing parents. As Sheila Cooper, Director of the Girls’ Schools Association, stated in an interview for TES magazine recently, “Any closure or merger of schools will always cause real upset. The parents have invested much into their child’s chosen school and may well initially feel betrayed. Change can be quite painful, but it can work”. Both Kelly College and Mount House School hold their own distinct ethos, culture, educational approach and a great deal of history. As such, any amalgamation of this nature will inevitably bring about disagreements, sadness and anger and will undoubtedly struggle to achieve satisfaction on all levels. Independent schools and the perceived privileges they bring to a small section of our society will always be a controversial topic. However, when viewed in a broader context and within the confines of a relatively small town and community, they can certainly bring benefits to us all.

pay its local and national taxes, all adding to the stretched coffers of our local and regional councils. Large numbers of local residents are employed by the school, whether as part of the teaching staff, admin, or maintenance team, ensuring that earnings are kept and spent within the area - once again, all helping to boost our local economy.

A final word from Mark Semmence, Headmaster from September 2014: “Mount Kelly is set to become one of the leading coeducational day and boarding schools in the South West. With outstanding facilities, a hugely dedicated and caring staff and located within beautiful surroundings, the School’s future is incredibly exciting.” Lizzie Watt For further information visit www.kellycollege.com

Operation Sunshine a final word We were extremely sad to hear that Operation Sunshine South West - our charity feature in June 2012 - had to close down after sending its final container to Zambia in February this year. Several factors contributed to this decision. The cost of sending containers had risen to the point where it was no longer a viable exercise, no volunteer came forward to take over the role of Organiser when Ann Tregarthen retired in February and a number of African governments have started to ban the import of secondhand clothing. A few words from Ann Tregarthen: It is hard to think that when Operation Sunshine started 34 years ago, the goods were taken by road to Exeter and our challenge then was filling one 20ft container a year. Latterly we were loading six 40ft containers each year and approximately 70 have been sent over the years. Thanks to the generous donations of goods, volunteers sorting and packing in all seasons and people helping on loading days, we have been able to help unknown numbers of people in African countries. However none of this would have been possible without lots of hard work raising enough money to transport the

containers, which has recently cost over £50,000 per year. I would like to thank our many supporters from all over the South West - and many further afield.

Ghana 2014: A message from Fen Eastaugh

Working with Operation Sunshine was a life-line for some people and gave us all friendship and purpose in life - the chatter when we were sorting and packing was wonderful and I can’t count how many ways we had ‘to put the world to rights’! Operation Sunshine was well loved and respected and we always knew that the goods had arrived and which project had received them because of all the emails and photos we received.

In the last issue of Moor Links, we featured 16 year old Tavistock college student Fen Eastaugh who has volunteered to spend 4 weeks in Ghana this summer for the charity ‘Thrive Africa’.

There is immeasurable sadness at the closure of Operation Sunshine South West but thanks are due to all those who have worked in whatever way to make Operation Sunshine such a great charity.

“Loads of people saw the article and commented on it. I just wanted to say thank you for all the support, help and encouragement given, with a special thank you to the Yelverton resident who made a generous contribution after reading the Moor Links article. Local businesses have also been approached and their response has been outstanding. I have been amazed at their support and generosity. I have a Thrive Africa charity T-shirt now printed with all the names of my business supporters on it. I am very grateful to all those who have donated, either as businesses or individuals.” If you would like to help Fen with sponsorship she can be contacted through her parents Chris & Julie Eastaugh, The Rosemont B&B, Yelverton PL20 6DR. Email: office@therosemont.co.uk Tel: (01822) 852175

Keith Parsons, kidney donor recipient, winning a silver medal at the World Transplant Games, Durban, South Africa 10

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CHARITY FOCUS

Tavistock Triangle Centre Tavistock Triangle Centre was started ten years ago as a local drop-in Cancer Support Centre at Tavistock Clinic, bringing care and support closer to home for cancer patients and carers. Three years ago the Chemotherapy Outreach project brought treatment for cancer patients to local community hospitals in Tavistock, Kingsbridge and Liskeard and with the refurbishment of the Tavistock Clinic, both are now under the same roof. The Chemotherapy Outreach project was originally initiated by two friends, from East Portlemouth, South Devon. They saw the stress and fatigue caused to cancer patients having to travel to all the way to Derriford Hospital, often through narrow twisting lanes. In response they set about fundraising ÂŁ80,000 in order to employ a team of nurses who could deliver chemotherapy closer to patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes. The project was then set up in the three local community hospitals with equipment provided by the hospitalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Leagues of Friends. Derriford now provides the chemotherapy treatments and the project continues to fund the team of

chemo-trained nurses who visit the Tavistock Triangle Centre every Friday - treating up to 13 patients during the day. Last summer saw both the drop-in support centre and the chemotherapy treatment unit become housed under the same roof, once the Tavistock Clinic was completely refurbished. Patients can now benefit not only from the on-going support of the Triangle Centre, but as one patient said â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;go to a coffee morning and have chemoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The name â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Triangle Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is derived from its triangle of supporters - the League of Friends (for each of the three local community hospitals), the Mustard Tree Macmillan Centre and the local communities. The Tavistock Triangle drop-in support centre is staffed by cancer support nurses as well as trained volunteers. It provides a wide portfolio of expert advice covering anything and everything that might cause concern to patients, their families and carers. The services available include counselling, complementary therapies, the lymphoedema clinic, one-to-one nurse consultations and benefits advice. In addition to information, practical help or signposting to local sources of help is also available. Staff work closely with GPs, oncology, community palliative care and social services, and they are happy to explain treatment details, provide help living with and beyond cancer,

or when appropriate talk through end-of-life care options. If someone presents a problem then the staff will make it their business to find a solution. The specialist nurses have handled enquiries from as far away as Germany and Spain, from those worried about friends and relatives in Tavistock, and likewise Tavistock residents use the centre when concerned about relatives living elsewhere. (This is only done with the consent of the patient). Staff at the Centre are keen to stress that anyone whose life has been affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly, is welcome to drop in. Not all chemotherapy treatments can be administered at an outreach centre but patients can check with their consultant at Derriford and providing their treatment is suitable then they will be able to attend their nearest outreach centre. Patients at the Tavistock Triangle Centre are very pleased with the service and one patient said it now means â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;she only has cancer for two hours a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Rosemary Best

The Triangle Centre and Chemotherapy Outreach project have been hugely successful to date and provide an invaluable service to many. If you would like to help support local people affected by cancer, either by making a donation or organising a fundraising event please contact Lesley Gibson by telephoning 07967 405379 or emailing kerythwlooe@btinternet.com. For further details about the Tavistock Triangle Centre please contact:

Tavistock Chemotherapy and Triangle Centre Tavistock Clinic, 70 Plymouth Road Tavistock PL19 8BX Friday 9.15 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4.15 pm (Closed Bank Holidays) Telephone (01822) 615935

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C ARING FOR YOU

LOOKING GOOD

LOOKING GOOD Dr Mary Nichols, Yelverton Surgery

Here comes the Sun! Hopefully the winter floods and devastation are now a distant memory as we look forward to the promise of more clement weather and sunny days over the moors this summer. Not only does the prospect of sunny weather lift our spirits as well as encouraging us to go outside and get some fresh air and exercise but it increases our levels of Vitamin D which helps us to build strong healthy bones. However, a balance needs to be struck as although the sun can give us benefits it can also cause serious health problems. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Around 100,000 cases are diagnosed each year and approximately 13,000 being the most serious -malignant melanoma. The incidence of skin Cancer is increasing and worryingly the South West has one of the highest levels in the country.

Kerry Ward ITEC. MAR

Reflexology & Holistic Massage Therapist

People previously associated skin cancer with sun exposure abroad in hotter climates such as Australia but over the past ten years the data shows that the South West has an increasing problem and something that we should take seriously in trying to reduce our risks.

Please telephone 855978 for advice or to make an appointment.

Fourward Health t. 01822 855331 m. 07795 057397 www.fourwardhealth.co.uk /fourwardhealth 14

Contact us on 855978 HPC registered to make an appointment Chiropodists/Podiatrists or to ask for advice Yelverton Foot Clinic Unit 1 The Rock Complex Yelverton PL20 6BS

What causes skin Cancer?

What to look for in a mole

UVA) protection.

It is thought that most skin cancers are caused by sun damage to the skin. In particular, episodes of sunburn significantly increase the risk of skin cancers. It is the ultraviolet radiation from the sun that does the damage and the skin cells that are damaged are at a greater risk of becoming abnormal. Although skin cancer is very rare in children, it is very important to protect children from over exposure as it is thought that children exposed excessively are at a greater risk of developing problems in their adult life.

There is a simple ABCD approach to moles

Keep sun tan lotion in a cool place as it degrades and becomes less effective over time and in the heat.

Who is at risk?

If you notice any of these changes or if a mole becomes itchy or bleeds seek medical review of the mole. Most will be fine but if it is a melanoma it is important to get it treated as early as possible.

ANDREW BROWN BDS Special interest in cosmetic dentistry. One of the few dental practitioners using a microscope for dental work in the South West.

How should I protect myself?

Each providing the latest care & treatment in oral hygiene.

All of us have to be careful to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of the sun but those with fair skin which has a tendency to burn easily are more at risk and those with a family history of skin cancer.

What should I look out for? Be vigilant and know your body so that you can see if there has been any change to moles or if areas of skin damage are not healing as they should or ulcerating and bleeding. Some areas are difficult to see and so taking a digital photo is useful making changes can more easily be noticed. The most dangerous form of skin cancer is a melanoma which can look like or develop in a mole in the skin.

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

Border-melanomas often have ragged uneven edges Colour-the colour of a melanoma is often not uniform with two or three shades of brown or black

Avoid using tanning beds which tan the skin with ultraviolet rays. The message is enjoy the good weather but be sensible and vigilant and if concerned consult with your Doctor.

Diameter- melanomas are usually larger than normal moles and they continue to grow.

You should limit your exposure to strong sunlight especially when high UV warnings are given with the weather forecast and as much as possible between 11am and 3pm when the sun will be at its strongest. Cover up with clothing and a wide brimmed hat when out Applying regular sunscreen with a very high sun protection factor ( minimum factor 15 but if possible higher than this ) which also has a high ultraviolet A (

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Asymmetry-melanomas are often uneven and asymmetrical

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LOOKING GOOD

Top Tennis Tips

The Truth About Baby Sleep!

The double handed backhand Roger Froud is an LTA Senior Performance Coach, PTR Professional and has represented his county at both junior and senior levels. He is the head coach at Yelverton Tennis Club and The Manor House Hotel in Okehampton.

As a mother, children’s Clinical Psychologist, BabyCalm and ToddlerCalm teacher I know about the challenges of sleep deprivation when a new baby arrives. Professionally, I see my role as increasing parents understanding of baby sleep to help lessen their anxiety. Haven’t we all been there, going from book to book desperately trying to find the ‘magic solution’ to help our babies sleep the whole night? After all, isn’t this the first question everyone asks before bombarding you with numerous suggestions on what you ‘SHOULD’ be doing! Baby sleep is one of the most common parenting concerns with nearly a third of parents reporting significant worries about their child’s sleep. So what is ‘normal’ and why do babies wake so frequently? How can we encourage better sleep and reduce our stress as parents?

So what is normal? Surprisingly contrary to our cultural expectations, frequent night time waking IS normal. Research shows that at 6 months only 16% of babies sleep through the night with no regular sleeping pattern and 55 % of babies are waking at 12 months. Indeed it is not until after the age of two that regular night waking requiring parental attention becomes less common.

Why do babies wake so frequently? As adults our sleep cycles are governed by circadian rhythms which is our bodies internal body clock influenced by light and dark and the production of the hormone melatonin. Babies under 12 weeks have not yet developed their own circadian rhythms, so have no internal way of distinguishing night from day. Alongside this, babies sleep cycles are much shorter than adults lasting only 45 as opposed to 90 minutes and involving two stages rather than four stages of sleep: active sleep lasting about 25 minutes and quiet sleep 16

for about 20 minutes. After each sleep cycle the baby may either wake or begin a new cycle. As the baby grows they begin to slowly spend less time in active sleep but it is not until school age that children’s sleep cycles reach the adult cycle length. During active sleep babies are easily woken. This is an evolutionary survival mechanism designed to prompt the mother’s protection because our babies, unlike any other mammals, are born so helpless and vulnerable. Aren’t our babies clever!

How do we encourage better sleep? Maybe the start is to recognise that frequent waking is normal and focus on learning how to work with your babies sleep cycles, rather than setting the impossible task of trying to control them. Hopefully this will save you a fortune on stocking a library of baby manuals looking for that ‘magic solution’! To help babies maximise their capacity to sleep it is crucial that we help them feel safe and secure. One way of doing this is by thinking about the womb environment in which they have spent the last nine months. What helped our babies feel safe in the womb? How would they have been feeling physically and what was their sensory world like? We can help to recreate this environment by thinking about the noise, movement and closeness babies experienced during this time. This explains why so many parents spend hours driving their baby around in the car to encourage sleep. The car like the womb is noisy, warm, on the move and the baby is snugly nestled in the safety of their car seat. For more ideas and information on baby and toddler sleep and behaviour why not attend a BabyCalm or ToddlerCalm workshops in Tavistock and Plymouth. Contact lisashields@babycalm.co.uk for group and workshops www.babycalm.co.uk/teacher/lisa-shields for interesting posts visit www.facebook.com/lisashieldsbabycalm

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Follow the instructions but this time use your non-dominant hand (in my case, as I am right handed, my left hand), keep this hand near the top of your racket handle. Practice a few shots, with one hand, making sure you concentrate on the follow through position. Now try adding your dominant hand to the bottom of the racket handle and position it so it feels comfortable. Swing the racket as before and you now have a double handed backhand, easy peasy…

with Tara Leader BSc (hons)

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Could this be the easiest and quickest tennis lesson ever? Take a quick look at how the profressionals hit the ball as this will give you good visualisation of the shot. The double handed backhand is essentially a left handed forehand (if you are right handed), how cool is that! Firstly, check out the article in the spring edition of moor links for the forehand drive.

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- The power should come from your non-dominant hand - Control will come from your dominant hand - You will now find your core/hips turn naturally when you swing the racket (do try to get this feeling with your forehand drive as well) For more information contact Roger on 0781 4560 988.

BEFORE

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Grab a racquet and join this thriving, friendly Club in beautiful surroundings. • Three hard courts • Very competitive rates. YELVERTON • A professional coach for individual or group coaching TENNIS CLUB • Junior coaching on Saturday mornings. • Various tournaments and social events. • Club nights each week.

New players of any age and standard are always welcome. Interested? Contact Wendy on 01822 853613 for details www.moorlinks.co.uk

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VILLAGE NEWS

Music Community & Sport What’s happening I hear you ask at The ‘Fantastic’ Lady Seaton Sport Field in Crapstone the home of Buckland Monachorum Cricket Club. The obvious things are that the ground is ready and the buildings have been made good, the not so obvious is that a dedicated team of people have arranged a brilliant music festival for September this year, ‘Crapfest’ with the aim to help raise more funds to replace the porta cabins and build a dual use Community / Sports Building. The great news is that we are closer than ever to actual build, hopefully by the end of this year.

Get dancing with Dartmoor Border Morris Dartmoor Border Morris is a family based Morris side based in Meavy Parish Hall, where between October & April we have our practice sessions, every Wednesday at 8pm. We’re sponsored by Dartmoor Brewery, and are open to anyone of any age or background, though the dancing can be quite physical , you do develop a good social circle. With the Royal Cornwall Show, Looe music Festival & Widecombe fair just some of the highlights of the year, we`re always`s on the lookout for new members. Our chosen charity this year is the Mary Budding Trust, based in Tavistock, a charity supporting young children with special needs. Any enquiries can be made via Sue on ( 01822) 859220 or check out our website at www. dartmoorbordermorris.com “

And we need your help! To open some potential funding streams, we need to show that the local community would use the building. As such, can you please help us and answer these questions…. 1. Do you live nearby and would like to start a club? 2. Would you like to have a regular coffee morning? 3. or can you help in another way ? We’d be really grateful if you could please answer the questions, and let us have your contact details and any feedback - please either email it to - david.timmins@pepper. co.uk or drop it into St. Andrews Primary School / FAO: David Timmins Many Thanks - Buckland Monarchorum Cricket Club

Fifty Fabulous Scarecrows Visit the Garden House! Everyone at The Garden House is gearing up to playing host to a huge collection of scarecrows this August. This major event is proving a very exciting prospect for the staff and volunteers at the Buckland Monachorum garden! The Yelverton & District Festival of Scarecrows takes place throughout August, and visitors will be able to marvel at the creativity of representatives from across the Yelverton area, including businesses, charities, youth and service organisations and individual exhibitors. The community response to the inaugural Scarecrow Festival has been just brilliant, and it now looks as if the garden will be home to 50 fabulous scarecrows, providing a wonderful spectacle not to be missed. Appropriate sites for each scarecrow have already been selected. Fifteen are due to take up residence in the Jubilee Arboretum, and the remainder will be given special positions along the whole of the main visitor route. Two scarecrows are to be designated as ‘Meeters & Greeters’ to ensure everyone receives the warmest of welcomes on arrival! Pick up the Scarecrow Trail at Visitor Reception and then vote for your favourite.

Triumphant Ten Tors Teams

The weekend of May 10/11th saw nearly 3000 teenagers take part in this year’s Ten Tors Challenge weekend. Facing gale force winds and torrential rain the teenagers undertook the 35, 45 or 55 mile challenges. Despite the grueling conditions the 45 mile team from Devonport High School for Boys came galloping home in style, wearing shiny gold leggings and horse heads, to gain second place, closely behind Torquay Boys Grammar who took first. The team from DHSB included local boys, James Watt, Harry Ellicott, Jack Williams, David Lee, Lloyd Barron-Robinson, Ewan Sutton. Congratulations to all of our local teams - an incredible achievement!

Horrabridge School PTA Clothes Recycling Bank Having held a few successful collections with our twice yearly textile recycling scheme, we have managed to make things even easier for everyone to take part. We now have a permanent collection bank currently situated within the school playground and it will be emptied regularly. We can take any good quality clothing, paired shoes, soft toys, sheets, towels, curtains, blankets, handbags and belts. Just nothing wet or dirty please!

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Money raised will continue to benefit the children of the school, but we will also be donating 20% to the children’s charity Starlight! We felt it would be nice for the children to feel as if they are helping others too. 18

For all your household needs help is at `Hands’

Sue Limb 07939812763 Email: sue@dartmoorhelpinghands.com editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

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VILLAGE NEWS

NATURALIST

Yelverton Roundabout – An Update

Time For The Bumble-Bee

At a meeting on Saturday 5 April several Yelverton residents and members of Yelverton Rotary met with Roger Charles of British Beds Worldwide (BBW), in St Paul’s church to discuss possible enhancements of Yelverton’s landmark roundabout. Several longer-term ideas were discussed for future consideration, but it was initially agreed that BBW would in the shorter term supply 1000s of poppy seeds to help commemorate the Great War. The Rotary Club of Yelverton has in the past, planted 1000s of bulbs on the roundabout and also kindly agreed to undertake the poppy seed planting. It is hoped that these poppies will flower this year.

I was pleased to see the appearance of bumble-bees earlier this year. They have been suffering from the same problems that afflict our domestic (and the wild) honey-bees including habitat loss, pesticides and disease.

Volunteers happily came forward to help renovate the central signpost. British Beds Worldwide will fund the materials and solar-lighting required. Longer term suggestions for the roundabout included: 1. An artificial replica Tor with seasonal flower beds 2. A sculpture (similar to that at Hatherleigh - pictured) 3. No sculpture, keep trees and the planting of a wildflower meadow 4. Something to reflect RAF Harrowbeer – a replica spitfire? 5. Sculptures of sheep, ponies, goats etc 6. A formally planted design (similar to roundabouts found in Brittany) with an RAF Harrowbeer reference 7. A small bee-friendly sculpture to attract wild bee colonies. “Of course, before any idea could be adopted they would have to be acceptable to the relevant authorities. However, those who attended were most certainly unanimous in saying that that the residents and businesses of Yelverton, would undoubtedly benefit from the roundabout being made more attractive and eye-catching than it is now, encouraging visitors to stop awhile rather than drive by. So we would really appreciate knowing which of these ideas attracts the greatest support from the community, so we can start to consider more formal plans and costings. And it would be lovely if local gardeners, landscapers, and other businesses would like to be involved in a practical or even financial role.” – Roger Charles, BBW

Make mine a double! The Royal Oak at Meavy has won a double of Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) awards. The Meavy pub has been named CAMRA country pub of the year runner-up and CAMRA cider and Perry Pub of the year runner-up. The Plymouth CAMRA chairman Ian Dickinson said the awards were handed out after each Plymouth CAMRA branch member vote for their top three pubs and their favourite for traditional real cider and Perry. Members take into account the quality of real ale, the pub’s atmosphere style and decor, service, community focus, sympathy with CAMRA aims and good overall value. The photo shows Stephen Earp the landlord of the Royal Oak Inn receiving the awards from Ian Dickinson the chairman of Plymouth CAMRA.

Their size makes them easy to observe as they do the rounds of a patch of flowers, be they wild, ornamental or agricultural. Even casual observers will soon realise that the bees are not all the same. Different species vary in the colour and pattern of the stripes on the body; they have been compared to both liquorice all sorts or rugby shirts! Scientifically they all belong to the Bombus genus but their second species names are not so memorable. ‘Red-tails’ have a body that is otherwise black; ‘Tree bumblebee’ or ‘gingers’ are the only ones with a thorax of this colour. The rest all have black and yellow bodies but can be distinguished by their ‘buff-tails’ or ‘white-tails’ (two varieties) I know this is a

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Bumble bees share the same social organisation as honey bees, Only the queens survive the winter so these were probably the ones I saw earlier. Later in the year it is the workers that will be seen feeding and can then be followed as they disappear into shallow undergrowth. They are returning to small underground nests, often in old mouseholes. There the queen raises just a few hundred workers at a time. Male drones and young queens are only produced later in the year. Often overlooked, I feel the bumbles deserve our care and attention! Their economic significance, pollinating food crops, is probably undervalued. I have only mentioned the commoner ones. There are only 19 other species, three having become extinct in the UK recently! Pat Mayston

Swallow season Now that Swallows are back after their amazing 6000-mile flight from South Africa, where they winter, they will be nesting in outbuildings, sheds, porches and some under bridges. Depending on when they arrive and the summer’s weather, they may rear two, sometimes three, broods of 4 or 5 young. Eggs are laid from late April and young may be still in the nest in late September. Their average life-span is around two years and the oldest recorded was 11 years old. Female Swallows are clearly choosy – they pick males with the most symmetrical tail streamers. ‘Our’ Swallow, the Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica, is the most widespread species, breeding in North America, Europe, and Asia as far as eastern Russia.

Comments may be posted or emailed to Roger Charles at 1-2 Moorside Court, Yelverton Business Park PL20 7PE or mail@britishbedsworldwide.com 20

Anyone wanting to understand their ecological importance should take the time to watch them entering a flower. Bumble bees are very docile and unlikely to sting unless physically molested. Foxgloves, beans, lupins and especially snapdragons are a good starting point. The bee has to force its way in, like someone trying on a tee-shirt that is really a bit small, so the bee gets exclusive rights to the plants nectar. It emerges with its hairy body covered with pollen, which is dusted off on the next flower visited, guaranteeing pollination for the plant. The needs of both insect and plant are satisfied thanks to evolution!

bit rough-and-ready and is not scientifically watertight, but it is a start. There are several ‘cuckoo’ bees that mimic these colours and deposit their eggs in the nests of the matching species.

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We know that British Swallows winter in South Africa because birds ringed in Britain have been caught again in winter in South Africa. Tiny metal rings are fitted to the legs of the birds, many of which are ringed as nestlings when they are half-grown (about 10 days old). Swallows return to the same site in later years, and juveniles return to breed close to where they were born. Devon-ringed birds have been recovered in France, Spain, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Namibia and South Africa. (If you wish to learn more, contact the author). Tony John Email: agwj97@yahoo.co.uk 21

GARDENING

New planting to create the ‘Summer Garden’ at The Garden House

Outdoor Living Sue Fisher shares some practical ideas and planting suggestions for enhancing quiet corners of the garden. With a lovely summer last year and a favourable sunny start to this one, now’s the ideal time to plan for some outdoor living. Focus on patios and seating areas: it’s always best to have more than one spot to sit, either to follow the sun or to have shady, cooler spots when the sun bakes down. Do make your patio sufficiently large –tables, chairs, loungers and the like take up a surprising amount of room.

By the time you are reading this the new Summer Garden will have been planted to replace the South African planting that has struggled with cold and wet winters. It is always difficult working from a design drawing conceived in the dead of winter but when the plants are actually placed in

pots there is more of a sense of rhythm, form and colour and the play of light. The idea is to have maximum flower power from herbaceous plants with a good structural foil provided by grasses. There will be low drifts of Geranium, Potentilla, Astrantia, Persicaria, Geum and Echinacea interspersed with Stipa and Calamagrostis grasses. Medium height drifts of Eryngium, Astilbe, Sanguisorba and Rogersia merge with these and taller plantings of Lythrum, Eupatorium, Actaea, Helenium interspersed with the taller grasses of Miscanthus and Molinia. Do come and have a look and let us know if you like it.

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Nick Howarth

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Head Gardener , The Garden House, Buckland Monachorum

Yelverton & District Festival of Scarecrows

Local Groups, Businesses and Individuals will be creating a fascinating range of Scarecrows for display at The Garden House, Buckland Monachorum.

Join the Fun! Be Amazed!

Saturday 2 to Sunday 31 August 2014

I always recommend some form of screening too, for creating privacy as well as shelter from winds. Permanent and pricier options include fencing and substantial trellis (with wide rather than thin struts), while of the cheaper, quicker and easier options, I favour screening on a roll: reed, willow, bamboo and heather. This makes an excellent screen when well supported on a framework such as posts and wires, and perfect as an instant cover-up to ugly walls, oil tanks or fencing panels - handy when the boundary belongs to a neighbour. Thinking ahead to summer evenings, a source of heat and light makes all the difference, preferably something ecofriendly and simple like solar lights, garden candles or a simple firepit or chimenea. Containers make the perfect personalised finishing touch: I like to mix permanent and frost-tender patio plants for a gorgeous blend of year-round structure and seasonal flowers. Choose evergreens with an architectural shape: either green-foliaged ones like Restio and Fatsia, or those with colourful foliage and a bold shape such as Libertia, variegated phormiums and the golden grass Hakonechloa – these are great to brighten the patio during the winter months. Bear in mind there are plants that can be made architectural as well, such as Box or Bay trimmed to topiary shapes. All of these make a wonderful backdrop for a wealth of summer blooms – everything from Argyranthemum to Zinnia.

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- Choose an eco-friendly pest control method to avoid harming natural predators like birds, frogs and hedgehogs. Biological controls are now available against a wide range of pests. - Covering brassicas and carrots with fine mesh is effective against common pests. - Fast-growing annuals like nasturtiums and cornfield annuals can still be sown to flower this year. - Make regular, small sowings of salads to ensure a continual supply: mixed leaves, loose leaf lettuce, rocket and mizuna all look pretty enough for patios. - Ensure birds and hedgehogs have a regular supply of fresh water. Sue Fisher is a garden designer and writer based on the Bere Peninsula. Tel 01822 841895. Email: suefisher@ talktalk.net Website: www.suefishergardens.co.uk

Design and Installation Waterfalls and Streams Planting and Stocking Water Features Renovation Leak Repair

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FOOD & WINE

Putting the ‘Zest’ into school dinners Susie Zaleski and Linzi Tynan (both parents with children at St Andrew’s School, Buckland Monachorum), spent an enjoyable evening a year ago thinking of a name that would best represent their new business enterprise: an imaginative school meal service using fresh, locally sourced produce, prepared and cooked on site in a way that they cook at home. They both care about healthy, quality food and wanted to produce the best meals possible that were good value for money. ‘Zest’ seemed an appropriate name for a, fresh, tasty, passionate catering company and it suits the entrepreneurial chefs too. Back in July 2013 St. Andrew’s School advertised for tenders from companies wishing to run a school meals service from their kitchen. Up against stiff competition, after much research and support from other local school kitchens and a

credible business plan, Susie and Linzi were successful with their tender and ‘Zest’ began serving meals less than six months later. It has been a massive learning curve for both Zest and St. Andrew’s school. Zest rent the kitchen from the school which is now responsible for its maintenance. The kitchen is of a good size and is fully equipped, although Zest would like to improve efficiency by upgrading some of the appliances and have already replaced the old plastic meal trays with proper crockery and cutlery. Susie admits “It was a frightening first week due to the enormous popularity, with lessons quickly learnt about portion size and menu choices”. Susie worked front of house for four years in the River Cafe so has some understanding of how a busy kitchen works. She was even able to call her old colleague Jamie Oliver for advice. Susie and Linzi employ two kitchen assistants, Sarah Boyle and Kay Facey. All four have children at the school and are well placed to speak directly to parents about individual

dietary requirements and the eating habits of the children they serve. They now serve approximately 140 meals every day, they know their diners well and like to make the lunch time experience an enjoyable one, tailoring menus, celebrating special occasions and even using table cloths. Keen to maintain high principles of healthy, fresh food they have gone to great lengths to source local suppliers who share their ethos. All meals are cooked using fresh ingredients, and modern recipes that are often brought in from home or taken from the likes of Jamie Oliver and Nigella Lawson. Linzi says “We have made things more challenging by preparing home cooked meals; stock and pizza dough, pasta sauces are all made from scratch, but it is a principle we believe in”. Susie and Linzi began this challenging venture with a shared love of cooking and a positive attitude on enhancing village life. It has been hard work but they both clearly love what they do and the children and staff that they provide these delicious meals for, love what they do too. To find out more you can visit the website at www. zestkitchen.co.uk Nichola Williams

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FOOD & WINE

Lemon Posset

Langues de chat

and Langues de chat One of my favourite desserts, easy to make and lovely to have on a hot summer’s day! With thanks to Bruce Cole, Head Chef, Moorland Garden Hotel

Lemon posset

Summer Wines a taste of the new...

Divide the lemon cream mixture into six large serving glasses and refrigerate for three hours

Ingredients • 600ml/1 pint 1 fl oz double cream • 150g/5oz caster sugar • 2 large lemons, zest and juice only For the posset, place the double cream, sugar, lemon juice and zest and whisk well add into a large pan over a low heat and bring to the boil slowly. Simmer for five minutes, then remove from the heat strain the cream through a fine sieve, then allow to cool.

Ingredients • 125g icing sugar, sifted • 125g plain flour, sifted • 125g unsalted butter, softened • pinch salt • 1 tsp good vanilla extract • 3 large egg whites Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4 and line two baking trays with baking parchment. Put the butter and icing sugar into a bowl and beat using an electric hand whisk until pale and smooth. Beat in the flour, one half at a time. Add the salt and vanilla extract and then beat in the egg whites. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a 1cm round nozzle and pipe straight lines of the mixture, about 8cm long, onto the paper. Leave 5cm between each biscuit as they will spread during cooking. Transfer the trays to the fridge for 15-20

minutes, or until the dough is firm to the touch. Bake the biscuits for 10-12 minutes, or until light golden-brown around the edges. Use a palette knife to transfer to a wire rack to cool (so they don’t stick to the tray).

Assembly

Place some fruit on to the lemon posset Scoop some ice cream into a nice ball and place on the fruit place a biscuit on top of the ice cream and serve

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One thing is for sure; that is the World of Wine never stands still, in fact, it is not only constantly changing but also evolving, as new winemaking techniques are being explored. With each vintage comes the unique influence of that year’s weather. We are all painfully aware of the unpredictability and fluctuations in our weather cycles, which inevitably will affect quality, quantity, price and ageing potential. That said, possibly the greatest factor in wine development is the enthusiastic drinkers insatiable appetite for all things ‘new’. New Styles, new blends and grape combinations to match the new culinary sensations; new winemaking techniques and so on. There is no doubt that the principal classic well established grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir to name but a mere 3 out of 970; are all here to stay … but scan any well stocked wine shelf and new previously unknown grape varieties are there to greet and yes, sometimes confuse us. Pinot Grigio, stand aside, let’s give perhaps Fiano, the Picpoul, the Viognier a try … so many options. The Fiano, whilst when selected badly is indifferent, can deliver delicious rich, white flint and honey notes with

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The key to our continued intrigue in new wines goes hand in hand with our appetite for new and previously unexplored new food flavours; (with so many foodie programmes) we must thank the telly for this. As a Wine Merchant, I am continually gratified by our imaginative local chaps as they constantly introduce

truly innovative and palatable tantalising flavours which in turn, I must match with compatible wines. It is at this time of year that the more conscientious and savvy chefs let their imaginations run wild, in turn the selection of wines must not let the customer feel wanting. Can I therefore ask you to treat it as your challenge to explore all that is new and be part of the ever changing world of food and wine? Charles Steevenson, The Cellar Door, Tavistock

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gentle lingering texture. The Picpoul de Pinet, another gem from the French Mediterranean coast, so at one with seafood – reminiscent to a southern Burgundy yet enhanced further by a hint of honeysuckle. For the reds, at last, a Pinot Noir that tastes like Pinot Noir at sensible prices – alas not from Burgundy, try options from South Africa or even the Loire Valley.

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4 FULLY MANAGED SERVICE or LET ONLY SERVICE 4 RENTAL GUARANTEE 4 REFERENCING 4 QUALIFIED MEMBERS OF NAEA, ARLA, APIP, TDS & OMBUDSMAN 4 LOCAL AREA KNOWLEDGE 4 PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE RENTAL VALUATION

M&B Residential Lettings, 77 Upland Drive, Derriford, Plymouth, PL6 6BE T: 01752 759905 F: 01752 785027 E: lettings@mblettings.co.uk

1. It is always advisable to choose a letting agent who is a member of a professional organisation, such as the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), both are bound by a code of practice. 2. It is important to remember that agents offering low charges are not necessarily the best agents to use. Opt for those who provide a comprehensive service and can demonstrate success in the local market. 3. Choose a letting agent which lets properties similar to yours, and which you think would attract the right kind of tenant with suitable references and achieve the highest possible rental price. 4. Provide your letting agent with as much information as possible about the type of tenant you want. For example, stipulate whether you want a young professional or married couple, a personal or a corporate let, and whether you are looking for a long-term tenant. Landlords benefit by having long-term tenants as it excludes ‘voids’ (periods when the property is empty). 5. Just as with selling your home, first impressions count for everything when it comes to property, so it’s vital your home looks its best for potential tenants. 6. Make sure all aspects of your property are up to scratch and meet all of the required standards to give you the best chance of finding the right tenants and achieving the best price.

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For a free valuation or general lettings advice, please contact Michelle or one of the team at M&B Residential Lettings on 01752 759905 or call in to the office at 77 Upland Drive, Derriford, Plymouth.

7. Before you can let your property, you need to consult a number of parties:

• Your mortgage lender - your lender may ask that you let your property on an Assured Shorthold basis

• Your insurance company - if you don’t inform your insurance company that you have let your property, you may not be covered in the event of damage, fire or theft in the property

• Your freeholder (if you have one) - important if you wish to let a leasehold flat, for example.

• You may also find it useful to get advice from a solicitor and an accountant.

www.mblettings.co.uk www.moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

JUNE 15 June Classic & Veteran Cars – Morwellham Quay

Cars from across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset will be meeting at the Quay, including Triumphs, Standards, MGs, and Austin 7s, to name just a few. Bring your father or grandfather for a day out to admire a large selection of stunning cars as well as take a ride on the train back in time through the copper mine. Usual admission prices apply. Free for members. For further details see www. morwellhamquay.org. Tel: 01822 832766.

19 June CSRF - Day Trip

Day trip by coach with the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship (Princetown Group) visiting two places of interest and enjoying lunch at a recommended hostelry. For more information and/or reservations ring Mike on 01822-890799,

20 June Fashion Show and Clothing Sale - Bere Alston Primary School.

High street branded clothing such as Next, Marks and Spencer, Boden at discounted prices, with the opportunity of being able to try before you buy! 7.30pm Tickets £5 inclusive of refreshment available from the School Reception, or contact Julie on 01822 841281 (Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance)

20 June Community Bread Making – Buckland Monachorum Devon Scones (Cream Tea). Learn how to make the best 30

scones in Devon! No experience neccessary, a wholesome activity in good company. Come and join us – all welcome! To book your place email daveandanthea@ yahoo.co.uk or tel 01822 853439. Supporting Buckland Chapel Building Renovation Fund

21 June Meavy Oak Fair - On the Village Green

Meavy Primary School pupils will open the Oak Fair at 2 pm with a pageant on the theme to be decided. Including the Burrator Horseshoe Run at 2:30pm BBQ, Hog Roast, Cream Teas, Ice Creams, Cakes, Produce, Craft Stalls, Bouncy Castle, Coconut Shy, Skittles, Face Painting, Children’s Entertainer, Pony Rides, Family Fun Dog Show, Grand Draw.

25 June Pentillie Castle – Wuthering Heights

Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents Emily Bronte’s classic love story at Pentillie Castle. The story is set on the beautiful, mysterious wilderness of the Yorkshire moors – although this time our rear lawn terrace will have to do! Tickets: £15 adult, £10 children, £40 family (2ad 2ch). *10% group discount (10+ people). 01579 350044 www.pentillie.co.uk

28 & 29 June Sconanza Weekend at Cotehele Mill

Our scone festival will feature tasty scone samples, butter making demos and a sconethemed quiz. 11am – 4.30pm

28 June 12th Annual Art Exhibition , Milton Abbot

A variety of work in all media, this year includes painted goose eggs. 10.30a.m. - 4.30p.m. Refreshments available. (For more information tel:01822870450)

28 June Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir – Annual Gala Concert Joined this year by the Britannia RNC Volunteer band, Dartmouth. St Eustachius Church, Tavistock at 7.30pm Tickets: from Book Stop, Tavistock or Terry Pearce on 01822 810648 (see Music & Art section for further details)

29 June Open Gardens - Mary Budding Trust

Taikoo, Belstone, Okehampton, EX20 1QZ —Home of Richard and Rosamund Bernays . Admission £4, children free. Home made cream teas. 3 acre hillside garden, recently extended toinclud e heathers, grasses and moorland plants. Chinese and Himalayan roses and a wide range of mature shrubs. Magnificent views of Dartmoor; a wonderful Sunday afternoon outing .

JULY 6 July All things Vintage & Artisan @ the Edge, Mount Edgcumbe, Cornwall.

On Sunday 6th July, 3rd August and 7th September - a brand new with a huge selection of vintage & handcrafted stalls, live music and entertainment. FREE ENTRY www.missivyevents.co.uk

6 July The Parish Plod - Meavy

The Parish Plod sponsored walk starts at the White Thorn Inn for a walk to The Royal Oak Inn and back. Barbecue and music at the Royal Oak Inn.

9 July Beach Photo Workshop – with Tony Cobley

9.30 to 3.30pm at Mothecombe Beach A fun and relaxed creative and technical ‘clinic’ workshop for hobby photographers of all levels. £50 per person www. tonycobley.com or 01752 894491

11 to 13 July History of Horrabridge Exhibition

Photographs, documents and artefacts from every aspect of village life over the last century. Railways, mines, the school, village life in general. From the archive collected by Jill and Jinks Fitzsimmons. St John’s Church, Horrabridge Fri 11th – 6pm – 9pm Sat 12th – 10am – 6pm Sun 13th – 12pm – 5pm Further details from Hilary – 852184 or Chris – 854637 In aid of the Friends of St John’s Church

11 to 13 July Flower Festival – St Peter’s Church, Meavy

‘Great Oaks from tiny acorns grow’ - just one of many proverbs depicted in a glorious Flower Festival held in St Peter’s Church, Meavy. Open 11am – 6pm. Stalls, games and refreshments available in the Parish Hall.

18 July Community Bread Making – editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

www.moorlinks.co.uk

Buckland Monachorum

Pizza Base Making. Bring along an apron, tea towel, mixing bowl, measuring jug, cling film and a £5 donation towards all supplied baking ingredients. A simple lunch and baking tuition included. No experience neccessary, a wholesome activity in good company. Come and join us. To book your place email daveandanthea@yahoo. co.uk or tel 01822 853439. Supporting Buckland Chapel Building Renovation Fund

23 to 24 August Cider & Ale Festival – Royal Oak Inn, Meavy The Royal Oak Inn Cider and Ale Festival, with wild food barbecue, scrumpy cider and Local Real Ale with live music

24 July CSRF Day Trip

Day trip by coach to Trethorne Leisure Centre for Lunch and Ten Pin Bowling For more information and/or reservations ring Mike on 01822890799

26 July Cornwood 10K Challenge & 4K Fun Run

Start 6.30pm. Cornwood Square PL21 9QA Run around Lutton & Cornwood mostly road but some track & fields. Minimum age 16yrs. Held under UKA rules.4km fun run or walk for under 16yrs & families. Online entry - wwwrunbritain. com or register on the day. Refreshments, baggage and changing facilities. Contact 01752 892627 or see website www.cornwood church. com

27 July Garden Trail - Walkhampton Visit gardens in and around Walkhampton between 2pm

and 6pm. The Garden Trail starts at the Walkhampton Memorial Hall where you can purchase your ticket and guide to the gardens for £3.50. Available at the hall during the afternoon are stalls including jewellery, tombola, books and cakes. Parking is free. All proceeds raised are for Children’s Hospice South West. Contact Sheila 01822 859215

27 July Literary Festival and Book Fair – Morwellham Quay

Local authors and poets will be reading from their published works, whilst those with up-andcoming talent can have a go at the open mic and the poetry slam. New and old books, cards and ephemera will be for sale. Usual admission charges apply. Free for members. For further details see www. morwellhamquay.org. Tel: 01822 832766.

27 July Glimpse Theatre at Castle Drogo

Have a fun family or individual portrait photographed – Edwardian Style! This theatre experience will run throughout the day as part of the Get Changed glimpse theatre work at the castle running throughout the National Trust 2014 visitor season. Normal admission fees apply.

30 July Alice through the looking glass – STERTS Theatre

A brand new adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic, presented by Quantum Theatre. Live music and a full array of fantastical characters – a lively new adaptation with classic characters and comedic poems – a treat for all the family. STERTS 31

WHAT’S ON Theatre, Upton Cross www.sterts.co.uk

31 July Beltane and Lodestone Dance Out – 8pm

Beltane Border Morris will join with Lodestone Border Morris for a ‘Dance Out’ on the village green, Meavy. They aim to start around 8pm and finish shortly after 9pm.

31 July Pentillie Castle – Romeo and Juliet

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men return to Pentillie Castle to present Romeo and Juliet. A tale of two opposing households, whose son and daughter defy their parents and fall passionately in love, sacrificing everything to be together… this is the most famous love story in the English language. Tickets: £15 adult, £10 child (12 and under). 01579 350044 www. pentillie.co.uk

AUGUST Throughout August 50 Fabulous Scarecrows – The Garden House

The Garden House, Buckland Monachorum will be home to 50 fabulous scarecrows, providing a wonderful spectacle not to be missed. Pick up the Scarecrow Trail at Visitor Reception and then vote for your favourite! Normal admission applies.

5 to 10 August Drawn to the Valley – Annual Exhibition, Town Hall, Tavistock

Here you can see the work of many of those who are going to be in the Open Studios – it may help choose which ones you want to visit. You can of course 32

purchase works before the throngs of Open Studios as well as cards and prints. Open 10am – 5pm

8 to 11 August 12Th Annual Art Exhibition By Derriford Art Group

Clearbrook Village Hall, Paintings are sold on a “Buy & Take Away” basis. Refreshments available. It is well worth a visit! Friday, 8th August 1pm – 4pm Saturday,9th August 10am – 4pm Sunday,10th August 10am –4pm Monday,11th August 10am – 3.30pm. Free Entry.

16 & 17 August RAF Harrowbeer 1940s Event – Yelverton Attractions this year include the popular, full-size replica Spitfire MkIX, with working Rolls Royce Merlin engine., Robey Trust with two engines in steam, a fully operational NAAFI tent, (run by the 1940s Roadshow) living history displays, military and vintage vehicles, 1940s music, plus other displays and exhibits, this is going to be a great day out for the whole family! 10am – 5pm

22 to 31 August Drawn to the Valley – Open Studios

Last year we had 101 artists, and who knows, we may get more this year! This is a great time to see artists work and some of their studios, also to converse with them! Look out for the signs of Open Studios near you and pop in! To contact us please see the website www.drawntothevalley. co.uk

23 August Walkhampton Cottage Garden Society Show

Scarecrows, BBQ, produce

show, handicrafts, cakes and much more. 11.30am to 4pm

24 August Open Gardens – Mary Budding Trust

Hotel Endsleigh Grounds, Gardens and Arboretum, Milton Abbot, 200 year old Repton designed garden in three parts: formal gardens around the house, picturesque Dell with pleasure dairy and rockery, arboretum. An August Bank holiday treat with refreshments available at the hotel, 11am – 5pm. Admission £4, children free. Park in the higher car park, follow directions

25 August (Bank Holiday Monday) Peter Tavy Village Fayre, near Tavistock

Traditional village fayre with something for all ages. Home-made refreshments; stalls galore; fun & games; duck race; raffle. Access for wheelchair users. Held in aid of Peter Tavy Village Hall, Church & Chapel.

28 August Pentillie Castle – Robin Hood

Enjoy a children’s performance at Pentillie Castle of this medieval tale, and follow Robin Hood and his Merry Men in their adventures. Will they defeat the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and Prince John, and rob the rich to save the poor? Tickets: £15 adult, £10 child, £40 family. 01579 350044 www.pentillie.co.uk

28 to 31 August Walkhampton Art and Craft Exhibition and Sale

The exhibition showcases the talents of many local artists and craftspeople and is renowned for its high quality and affordability. editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

Home-made refreshments, plentiful free entry. Opening hours are Thursday 28th to Saturday 30th August 10am until 7pm; Sunday 31st August 10am until 4pm. www.walkhampton-arts.org

SEPTEMBER 10 September Dartmoor DFAS - Lectures

Leslie Primo looking at the enduring Western obsession with the so called ‘exotic’ or ‘noble savage’ under the heading ‘THE CULT OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC’. All lectures are given in the Charter Hall, Okehampton and non members are very welcome. Tickets are £10 and are refunded if you join the Society. Excellent coffee and delicious chocolate brownies are served from 10.00am with the lecture starting promptly at

10.30am. For more information please contact Sara-Jane Cumming on 01822 860281

11 to 13 September Tavistock Goosey Quilters Exhibition

Tavistock Town Hall – Admission £2 A Quilt Raffle in aid of Brain Tumour Research Campaign. Admission £2. children free. The Exhibition is based on the theme of Renew, Reuse, Refresh. Traders, Light Refreshments; Sales table. Disabled access. Further details R. Wiggins 01822 612440 and email frogwellcottage@btinternet.com

13 September Crapfest is Back !

Crapstone’s very own music festival will be opening its doors at 4pm for an evening of bands, beer and good food! Tickets are on sale via the Crapfest website;

adult tickets are £15, child tickets are £8 and 3 years and under get in free. The event will take place in the field adjacent to the previous venue. For more details visit www.crapfest.co.uk or email contact@crapfest.co.uk

Does your parish, village or organisation have an event? Let us know and we’ll publish it here for all to see. All event listings in this What’s On section are FREE. Send us event details for our Autumn issue (Sept Dec) by Fri 1st August editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

FILM PROGRAMME SUMMER Saturday Evenings Cafe Cinema Doors open at 7.15pm feature starts at 8pm July 19th 12 Years a Slave (15) Aug 16th Gravity (12A) Sep 20th The Grand Budapest Hotel (15) Coming soon - Mandela:Long Walk to Freedom BYO and refreshments available £4 on the door

Tuesday Matinees

Children’s Cinema

Doors open at 2pm, feature starts 2.30pm

Closed for July and August. Back in September!

July 22nd 12 Years a Slave (15) Aug 19th Gravity (12A) Sep 23rd The Grand Budapest Hotel (15) Suggested Donation £3 Refreshments available

Saturday mornings: 10.45am, feature starts 11.15am Sep 20th The Lego Movie (U) Suggested Donation £2 Refreshments available

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

www.moorlinks.co.uk

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

Meavy Oak Fair incorporating Burrator Horseshoe Run & Family Fun Dog Show

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

“Great Oaks From Tiny Acorns Grow”

St Peter’s Church, Meavy-11th-13th July

RAF Harrowbeer 1940s Event 16th & 17th August

There will be lots of activities and stalls for everyone to enjoy at the Fair - BBQ, Hog Roast, Cream Teas, Ice Creams, Cakes, Produce, Craft Stalls, Bouncy Castle, Coconut Shy, Skittles, Face Painting, Children’s Entertainer, Pony Rides, Grand Draw.

RAF Harrowbeer, the former WWII airfield at Yelverton, will host another 1940s Weekend on the 16th & 17th August, 2014 from 10am to 5pm daily. The event will be centred around the Dispersal Bay restored by the RAF Harrowbeer Interest Group, at Axtown, Yelverton. Entry and parking are both free with the Organisers asking visitors for donations to help pay for the event. Attractions include the popular, full-size replica Spitfire MkIX, with working Rolls Royce Merlin engine. Also attending this year will be the Robey Trust with two engines in steam and they will be offering trips around the Airfield. With a fully operational NAAFI tent, (run by the 1940s Roadshow) living history displays, military and vintage vehicles, 1940s music, plus other displays and exhibits, this is going to be a great day out for the whole family!

Music in the afternoon provided by local jazz band Desperate Measures.

Sparkles & Spitfires

Saturday 21st June

Meavy Primary School pupils will open the Oak Fair at 2 pm with a pageant, followed at 2.30pm with the start of the increasingly popular Burrator Horseshoe Run. A seven mile moorland run from Meavy and out over Dartmoor, via Burrator Reservoir, Sheepstor, Gutter Tor and back through the ford across the river Meavy to the village green.

During the afternoon the Family Fun Dog Show will also take place, with prizes kindly donated by Ron’s Pet Supplies, Tavistock. Categories will include Waggiest Tale, Best Rescue, Best Veteran and many more. Start time from 3.15pm and entry on the day by the ring. For more information see: www.meavy.org.uk

Walkhampton Cottage Garden Show Saturday 23rd August

We’ve added extra attractions this year at the Walkhampton Cottage Garden Society Show, the area’s biggest and longest running village show. New attractions include a scarecrow competition (scarecrows will be dotted all around the village), upcycling, flower arrangements, and photography. The Walkhampton Inn will provide a BBQ from 12noon. Produce show, handicrafts, and cakes, as well as market stalls to buy direct from local farmers. It all starts at 11.30am with the scarecrow competition and finishes after the show prize-giving at 4pm. For details on how to enter the scarecrow competition or to enter as a show exhibitor, see the website: www. walkhamtonshow.weebly.com 34

Garden Hotel on Friday, 15th August 2014, to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the opening of the Hotel, and to commemorate the 73rd Anniversary of the opening of RAF Harrowbeer, Yelverton, both of whom opened on the 15th August. Full details are available from the Moorland Garden Hotel, on 01822 852245 Visit www.rafharrowbeer1940s.co.uk or ring (01822) 855336 for further details.

Friday, 15th August This will be just one of many proverbs and sayings depicted in a glorious Flower Festival, to be held in St Peter’s Church, Meavy, near the ancient oak tree on Meavy Green. The festival will be held over three days on July 11th, 12th and 13th from 11.00 am until 6.00 pm. Entry will be by donation and all money raised will go towards the repair and restoration of the church’s East Window, now nearly 200 years old. Throughout the event there will also be stalls, games and refreshments available in the Parish Hall. Parties will be most welcome, with advanced notice please to Ros Tall, 01822 852221.”

A 1930s/1940s themed Dinner Dance at the Moorland

The Royal Oak Inn

History of Horrabridge Exhibition Fri 11th – Sunday 13th July St John’s Church, Horrabridge

Photographs, documents and artefacts from every aspect of village life over the last century railways, mines, the school, village life in general, from the archive collected by Jill and Jinks Fitzsimmons Fri 11th: 6pm – 9pm, Sat 12th: 10am – 6pm, Sun 13th: 12pm – 5pm. Further details from Hilary – 852184 or Chris – 854637. In aid of the Friends of St John’s Church editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

The Perfect Dartmoor Hideaway For Drinking & Dining 15th century Dartmoor inn over looking the village green, serving mouth watering food and local ales. Meavy Nr Yelverton Devon, PL20 6PJ - (01822) 852944 www.royaloakinn.org.uk www.moorlinks.co.uk

MUSIC & ART

Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir

The Royal Marines ‘RM350 South West Proms’

Saturday 28th June

16th - 19th July

Now in their 8th year since formation the aspirations of the Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir continue to grow and flourish bringing an air of satisfaction to all concerned. This year they are continuing a precedent created by having first class artistes join them to present their annual Gala Concert. Following on from the venture last year, when,

with the Military Wives Choir, an absolute sell out of tickets before the day ensured the success of the evening, the choir are proud to announce this year they will be joined by the Britannia R.N.C. volunteer band Dartmouth, by kind permission of the Commander of the Britannia College. This band is the official ceremonial band of the college comprising both serving and ex military personnel. As is usual the concert will support a local charity and from the concert this year the Tamar Valley M.V.C, has decided the donation will be to the League of Friends of Tavistock Hospital. The concert will be held at St Eustachius Church Tavistock on Saturday June 28th at 7-30pm tickets are limited thus early booking is JOIN THE advisable. WEST DARTMOOR SUZUKI PIANO GROUP Tickets for the event are £10 per adult, ‘TALENT EDUCATION’ – Every child can do this, regardless of natural ability £5 children and are obtainable from Book Stop Tavistock telephone 01822 Give your child the chance to play the piano, and to develop essential 617244, Terry Pearce telephone 01822 life skills through this world renowned method. 810648 or any choir member. ✴ Acquire excellent technique & musicianship skills The Tamar Valley MVC will be ✴ Ability development under the musical directorship of ✴ Superb memory training Rosemary Cole with David Crocker as ✴ Excellent for development of motor skills accompanist. The compere for the ✴ Brilliant, logical method & great fun! Private lessons and evening will be Justin Leigh, president group classes of the choir, and presenter of BBC ✴ Plymouth, Yelverton, Tavistock area Spotlight. Further information can Qualified, Experienced Teacher be obtained from the choir website; Visit website at: www.ctpsuzukipiano.co.uk www.tamarvalleymvc.co.uk

SUZUKI PIANO TUITION

The Royal Marines have announced details of a four night visual and musical extravaganza this July to mark the 350th anniversary of their formation. The RM350 South West Proms will be hosted by Plymouth Albion Rugby Football Club (RFC) from Wednesday 16th to Saturday 19th July. It is expected to attract more than 18,000 spectators across the four nights, bringing together the local, regional and national community alongside the Royal Marines for a spectacular and unique occasion. Gates open to ticket holders at 5:30pm each day, for around five hours of performances. With military precision and flair, the celebration will capture the sense of occasion the Royal Marines are renowned for. The stadium will be abuzz with music and parades courtesy of over a hundred world class performers. Her Majesty’s Band of the Royal Marines will lead each night’s proceedings, with support from local

Drawn to the Valley Artists

Tavistock Annual Exhibition 5th - 10th August Tavistock Town Hall One of the most comprehensive collections of original mixed media art from across the Tamar Valley will showcase at The Tavistock Annual Art Exhibition from 5th to 10th August 2014. The exhibition is being put on by Drawn to the Valley Artists. With over 150 member artists, and many more participating, the collection is comprehensive and sure to tempt the appreciation of art in us all. A ‘Mini Originals’ Art section makes owning a piece of original local art accessible to everyone, even those on a modest budget. With a wide range of prints and artists’cards available too, it’s an event not to be

bands and impressive military displays from the Commando Recruiting Team. Looking to the sky, it is hoped there will be a dramatic Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm historical flypast and a firework display. It will be a ticket only event. For more information please visit www.rm350.co.uk missed. Whether browsing or buying, visitors are sure to come away inspired.

Open Studios – 23rd to 31st August

An essential part of the Tamar Valley creative calendar will be held from 23rd to 31st August 2014 across the Tamar Valley region. Artists ranging from painters and printmakers to ceramicists, sculptors, calligraphers, jewellers and textile artists put on the Open Studios event annually, to attract visitors to appreciate art in a variety of different media that reflect developments in both traditional and contemporary art. Open Studios provides a chance to experience 95 of the best established and emerging artists and the opportunity to own an original piece of artwork. Visit the website www.drawntothevalley.co.uk or email Sarah-Jane Lincoln sarah@dttv.co.uk for further information.

Email: cjtrevelyanpass@gmail.com Telephone: 01752 568371 Mobile: 07531 489023

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

www.moorlinks.co.uk

MUSIC & ART

NATIONAL TRUST

News from Buckland Abbey, Garden & Estate

The Avatars â&#x20AC;&#x201C; how one band became four! highlights Karenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deft violin work. Their eclectic playlist gained them great popularity.

June sees the opening of our new exhibition space. Come and see how the experts determine if our painting is a certified Rembrandt self portrait and of course, see the painting in question. Our medieval tithe barn is transformed into a fair of all things vintage on 28-29 June between 10:30am-5:30pm, hosted by Tavistock Vintage & Textile Fair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including vintage stalls, entertainment and food! (Entry to the fair: Adults ÂŁ2.75, Under 16s and National Trust members go free). In mid-July, our barn also hosts a musical feast as Plymouth Jazz Club plays host to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jazz on a Summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on 19 July from 6-11pm (Tickets ÂŁ15, call 01752 721179 to book).

Test yourself with our seafaring trail and see if you have what it takes to become one of Drakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pirates in our Armada Academy from 26 July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 Aug. Experience life at Elizabeth Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s court, hear her famous Tilbury speech and see the Queen knight Sir Francis Drake on 9-10 August. From 11-31 August join us for daily family fun, including crafts, historic re-enactment, 50 Things activities and more â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got summer sorted! For information on all our events, opening times and more, please see our website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ bucklandabbey or give us a call on 01822 853607. Keep up to date with all the latest information by following us on Twitter or by giving us a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;likeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on Facebook.

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Crapfest is back!

Crapstone, Saturday 13th September

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After a year off, Crapfest is back! Crapstoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very own music festival will be opening its doors at 4pm on Saturday 13th September for an evening of bands, beer and good food! The committee are pleased to be able to confirm that there will be a selection of new acts, as well as some firm favourites. Tickets are on sale via the Crapfest website; adult tickets are ÂŁ15, child tickets are ÂŁ8 and 3 years and under get in free. The event will take place in the field adjacent to the previous venue. For more details visit www. crapfest.co.uk or email contact@crapfest.co.uk

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The Resonet Choir returns for more wonderful Elizabethan choral music on 20 July from 2-4pm too.

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

www.moorlinks.co.uk

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If your only thoughts when you hear mention of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Avatarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;; is blue people from a film by James Cameron, then you would probably not have caught the Yelverton based band of that name. For those who when The Avatars are mentioned, think of Karenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s astounding violin playing, or Nualaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s captivating vocals, Higgi keeping the beat, or Mike, Adie and Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guitar sound then you may have caught them playing at Crapfest, Walkstock, parties, charity events or as hosts of the Wharf open mic nights . The band was set up first among hashers and named by Stannary hash â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Avatarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; because being â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rock godsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is secondary to their day jobs as teachers, engineers and doctors. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Avatarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; built a reputation for covering diverse ballads, rock anthems and fiddle based rousers, particularly â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Devil Went Down to Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which

However, the band themselves began to differ in what they wanted from performing. Nuala, Adie and Mark felt they would like to write their own songs and with Mike on board they formed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fallen Cedarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, with original material combining acoustic guitar, captivating vocals and melodic bass lines, and some paired back â&#x20AC;&#x153;Avatars Liteâ&#x20AC;? numbers. With great lyrics from Nuala and Mark, each song tells a story. Higgi and Karen wanted to form a good time party band, raising funds for St Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospice in memory of Higgiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister, Amanda. Again with Mike as lead guitar, and with two singers Fleur and Miranda, Hugh on bass and Lee on rhythm guitar; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sky Walkersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was formed. The band has already played a few gigs and is building a reputation as a great party band. Also to add to Mike Neenanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s repertoire- why be in one band when you can be in four? , Mike, Karen and Hugh- are â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trefoilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; playing both Gaelic folk and lively covers. As for the Avatars, the embers still burn and every so often they reunite and create the magic which was â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Avatarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. www.fallencedars.com www.skywalkersband.com www.facebook.com/trefoilmusic Pat Woodgate

Fingers crossed for glorious sunshine throughout the summer as we have lots of activities lined up for all to enjoy. As well as lots of events, take advantage of the weather by taking a walk up to our Willow Patch play area and have a go on our zip-wire or head out further onto the estate to take part in our letterbox trail.

FEATURE

FEATURE Major General David Hook CBE

It is a ticket only event, with thousands of tickets now on sale and available to the public. Pricing has been purposefully set to make the occasion as accessible to the local community as possible, with a 25% discount being given to all Plymouth residents and Royal Marines, serving and retired. Plymouth is considered the spiritual home of the Royal Marines. There have been barracks at Stonehouse for over 230 years and 50% of serving marines are based in the South West today. This unique part of the Royal Navy came into being on the 28th October 1664 when an order in council was signed for 1200 soldiers to be recruited for service in the Fleet, to be known as the Duke of York and Albany’s Maritime Regiment of Foot. As the Duke of York was The Lord High Admiral, it became known as the Admiral’s Regiment. The Regiment were not only soldiers but also seamen, who were part of the complement of all warships. Throughout the intervening 350 years the Royal Marines have remained pivotal to the defence of the Nation, its people and interests having been engaged in virtually every major conflict that the Nation has been involved in during this period.

350th

Anniversary of the Royal Marines An interview with Major General David Hook RM CBE, local Tavistock resident and Project Director of RM350 South West Proms This year the Royal Marines are celebrating their 350th anniversary. Three-and-a-half centuries of unbroken service committed to protecting and promoting the Nation’s security, prosperity and reputation. 350 years of timeless distinction. This significant anniversary will be commemorated through a series of planned events to be held throughout the RM350 campaign. I recently met with Major General David Hook, a local Tavistock resident and the Project Director of RM 350 South West Proms to find out more.

with Plymouth, which makes it highly appropriate that we should mark our landmark anniversary here. We see RM350 South West Proms as an opportunity to reaffirm and honour the strong links between the City and people of Plymouth and the Royal Marines”. The gates will open to ticket holders at 5:30pm each day, for around five hours of performances. With military precision and flair, the celebration will capture the sense of occasion for which the Royal Marines are renowned. The stadium will be abuzz with music and parades courtesy of over a hundred world class performers. Her Majesty’s Band of the Royal Marines will lead each night’s proceedings, with support from local bands and impressive military displays from the Commando Recruiting Team. Looking to the sky, it is hoped there will be a dramatic Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm flypast of current and historical aircraft and a firework display.

Major General Hook has served in the Royal Marines for 33 years. Originally from Durham, his first unit was 42 Commando at Bickleigh, where he commanded 30 men as a 2nd Lieutenant in his twenties. Coming full circle he returned in 2000 as the Commanding Officer. Through a fascinating career commanding and deploying on operations into war zones in every rank, he personifies the global nature of the Royal Marines, trained to fight

He enjoys the challenge, diversity and adventure, but values the solid foundation of family life he shares with his wife and daughters in Tavistock, and has no doubt about the importance of this area to the Royal Marines.

The Royal Marines have announced details of a four night visual and musical extravaganza this July to mark this 350th anniversary of their formation. The RM350 South West Proms will be hosted at Plymouth Albion Rugby Football Club from Wednesday 16th to Saturday 19th July. It is expected to attract more than 18,000 spectators across the four nights, bringing together the local, regional and national community alongside the Royal Marines for a spectacular and unique occasion.

“This year is a major milestone for the Royal Marines and we look forward to marking the occasion in the city. We see this event as a chance to commemorate the strong links we have with the city and local community, to have a great party and raise money for charity. We have no doubt July’s celebrations will be breathtaking, so we urge people to get involved.” For more information please visit www.rm350.co.uk

“The Royal Marines have a long and proud relationship 40

in every environment from the arctic to the desert to the jungle, on the land and from the sea. As a Brigadier in Southern Afghanistan he was required to command, in the absence of his commander 44,000 personnel drawn from 19 countries for which he was awarded a CBE and more recently received a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service on completion of his work in Kabul.

Interview by Nichola Williams editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

www.moorlinks.co.uk

BIKE TRAIL

BIKE TRAIL At Rockin Bikes we are always very keen to talk about trails and routes with you so if you’re new to the area or just after some inspiration for your next ride feel free to pop in for a chat.

On your bike…!

It’s a classic favourite of staff at Rockin Bikes and Sam who rides with the Rockin Bikes Girls on a Thursday night uses it as a good summer’s evening training route. You can follow the route clockwise or anticlockwise but today James and Sam have chosen to ride clockwise. The route starts and finishes at Burrator Reservoir Dam (SX551680). From the Dam follow the road clockwise around the reservoir for 200m and at the Waterfall take the left hand hairpin onto a track and follow this uphill for 300m to a right hand hairpin - you are now on the railway/cycle path that goes to Princetown. Shortly after a series of gates you will cross straight over a lane and head over to a gate where the trail heads down to cross the main B3212 road to Princetown (take care crossing here). Once across the road you are back on the railway. The route continues for 1.3km through enclosed farm land negotiating gates and a stile before returning to the open moor (remember to respect the Countryside Code). You now have 9km of trail that will take you all the way into the village of Princetown and if the weather is fine you will be treated to sweeping vistas.

well known amongst local mountain bikers. Both the Prince of Wales and Plume of Feathers pubs sell the locally brewed Jail Ale! The trail continues at the back of the Plume of Feathers heading south to South Hessary Tor which you will arrive at after 1.2km. You should now have views of South Dartmoor and if you are lucky, the sea! Continue south for another 1.6km and you will reach a cross roads in the trail - now it’s time for some trail fun as you will be turning right here to begin the descent to Burrator Reservoir. Take care on this next section of trail as it is more rocky and contains loose stones, the secret is to maintain some speed and let the bike find it’s natural line! The descent lasts for 4km and when you arrive back in the forest tree line keep following the trail to the left and you will arrive at Norsworthy Bridge on the road around the Reservoir. The choice for your return to the Dam is either clockwise or anti clockwise on the road but if you’ve enjoyed the off road and your curiosity has been piqued then there are other bridleways in this area that you may wish to seek out.

RockinBikes

A range of bikes, clothing and accessories to suit all needs

WE HAVE MOVED! Come and visit our larger shop, with more room for an even better choice. A wider selection of bikes, an expanded clothing range, more accessories and improved workshop facilities. Quality Brands, Quality Service and Friendly Expert Knowledge Harrowbeer Mews, Leg O’ Mutton, Yelverton, Devon 01822 258 022 Open 7 days a week. Free parking.

Once in Princetown you may wish to stop for refreshment at one of several pubs or cafes. The Fox Tor Cafe is particularly 42

.CO.UK

Matt, James and Sam at Rockin Bikes have kindly put together a great series of cycle rides for the Links magazines. This first ride starts at Burrator Reservoir, heads north up to Princetown, before heading back south across the Moor. This route is approximately 14 miles and depending on fitness levels and stops could take 2-3 hours – it’s aimed at people who’ve been riding non-technical trails for a while and are ready to add a bit of technical fun to their ride.

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

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PIGGY’S WALK

Bellever Forest and Tor According to Piggy the best walks for dogs should include a forest, a tor, the moor and a river. This one is perfect then.

The route is about 3 miles (11/2–2 hours) and is easily extended or shortened. There is an interesting additional 11/2-mile loop to Kraps Ring, a circular settlement, apparently dating from the 3rd millennium BC.

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Park in the forestry carpark at Bellever (£2 for the day – there are loos) near Postbridge. From the carpark turn right onto the forest track (1). After 100 metres, turn right again into the picnic site and take the small gate at its far right corner leading onto another forest track (2). Follow this gently uphill for about a mile until, after a long straight stretch, you come to a gate and stile onto the moor (the track carries on around to the right) (3). Go over the

stile and take the path on the right. Muddy in places but fairly easy going, this follows the stone wall around the edge of the forest. Soon you will see a small gate in the wall ahead. Go through this and either follow small pony paths up to the top of the tor or go right and take a more sedate route to its base then turn left to climb to the top (4). Piggy chose the pony paths, which are fun and don’t tend to peter out: all seem to lead to the tor. This is truly high Dartmoor and the summit offers a spectacular panoramic view with hardly a house or road (B3212) to be seen. Piggy is not that impressed with views and we were soon off down the wide flattened track that leads north-east (5). At the bottom there are several alternatives, but Piggy went on to a sandy crosspaths where

she turned right (6). (Carry straight on for Kraps Ring. Piggy didn’t go there. She doesn’t do history.) Walk up to and straight across the forest track on the marked bridleway. This leads to another forest track – cross this and carry on down the bridleway to the tarmac lane that leads into Bellever (7). Go straight ahead until you reach the right hand turn back to the carpark (8). A detour takes you to the East Dart River, where there are doggy bathing opportunities!

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Free estimates and advice 45

A DAY OUT TO...

The Royal William Yard

The Grade I listed Royal William Yard is a little piece of military history in the Stonehouse area of Plymouth. This solid yet stunning collection of buildings was built between 1826 and 1835 as a victualling yard for the Royal Navy and was named in honour of William IV, who promptly died only two years later. Where once alcohol and armoury were stored and coopers and brewers were housed, you’ll now find restaurants serving worldwide cuisines, art galleries and sophisticated wine bars. Sophisticated is the word I’d use to describe my impression of the Yard when I visited on a sunny Friday in April (yes, you do see those occasionally!). I forced myself to spend a balmy afternoon strolling by the harbour and eating a leisurely lunch at River Cottage Canteen in the name of research, to bring you this guide to a day out to the Royal William Yard. It’s a hard life. Take the scenic route to the Yard via the ferry that leaves from the Barbican every hour until 4pm. Weather permitting, the ferry cruises back and forth between the two harbours for most of the day, so you can pop back when you’ve had your fill of the Yard. Arriving into the harbour you’ll be in the heart of the action and, once you’ve gawped at the luxury yachts in the marina, will be able to see several restaurants as well as an art gallery; see what I mean by sophistication? When you think about it, there’s no more appropriate way to travel to a naval store than by sea, but car parking is also available inside the yard (£1 an hour, pay when you leave) for those who get seasick. Seasickness aside, if you’re still determined to arrive with the sea in view, a recently constructed award winning staircase has now been built into a formerly inaccessible wall of the yard, allowing walkers following the South West Coast Path to pass through. 46

Visit on the first Sunday of the month and take the opportunity to buy breakfast from the Good Food Market on the green, close to the grand granite archway marking the Yard’s official entrance. This market is small but perfectly formed, selling an impressive variety of lovingly made produce. You can find local meat and fish as well as preserves and crafts alongside cakes, confectionary, cheese, pies and plenty of hot food, both traditional and some more exotic. After doing a round of the market nip past the former Officers’ Residences, away from the Yard, and follow the path that leads to a small (by naval standards, I suppose) stone archway and a tunnel. Here you’ll get a fantastic view from what used to be an alternative port over the water towards Drake’s Island; on a sunny day, the water sparkles beautifully. Head back towards the Yard and have a stroll around to burn off that market breakfast. The Georgian buildings are truly impressive, and their original namesigns give you an idea of the layout of the once working victualling yard. Rather confusingly the current businesses don’t correspond with the old signs you can still see – the Royal William Bakery is in the slaughterhouse, and the Seco Lounge is in the bakery, for example. Activities in the Yard, other than eating and drinking, are currently a little limited; there’s a small but welcoming art gallery exhibiting the paintings of Martin Bush, Envy hairdressers and a clothing boutique called Bibi and Mac. That’s all set to change in summer 2014 though with several new businesses opening, including a 1940s themed tea room, an old fashioned sweet shop, interior design and furniture specialists and more art galleries. When they can convince planners that there won’t be parking mayhem, editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

the people behind Cornwall’s Watergate Bay Hotel are also hoping to convert the Melville building, featuring its own clock tower, into a hotel. One activity already available and worth mentioning is the programme of cooking demonstrations available at River Cottage Canteen and Deli. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because this restaurant is overseen by Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall, though I wouldn’t bank on seeing him cooking your lunch if you visit. For £30 you’ll be shown a culinary skill, such as smoking and curing, or chocolate making, and given a two course lunch. The Royal William Bakery, almost hidden in a building on your right as you come in through the Yard’s main entrance, is another place to observe culinary mastery; watch the bakers create cakes, breads, biscuits and all sorts, then help yourself to what you fancy and pay afterwards. The Bakery is also a great option for breakfast if you visit on a non-market day, and, like Wagamama, the noodle specialists by the harbour, its long and slightly communal benches and tables make it ideal for big families and groups. For those without children (or with a saintly friend willing to mind them), a couple of carefree hours can be spent at Le Vignoble, a wine lounge overlooking the green. They advertise tasters from as little as 60p, so you can keep sampling till you find the wine (or champagne) for you, or fall over, whichever comes first! They pride themselves on a lack of pretentiousness and even offer free tapas twice a week. If you have time between lunch and dinner, and you’re not planning on catching the last ferry back to the Barbican at 4pm, it’s possible to hop on the Cremyll Ferry to Mount Edgcumbe; you can even buy a Cremyll Link ticket which www.moorlinks.co.uk

allows you to travel by the Royal William Yard ferry and then the Cremyll ferry, which is only a short distance down the road from the Yard. If you want to see two Mounts in one day, and if the offer is still available when you visit, the Royal William Yard ferry sign states it will call at Mount Batten on request. When it comes to your evening meal at the Royal William Yard, you are spoilt for choice. Businesses and shops may still be under development, but there’s certainly no shortage of restaurants. Choose from Italian at Prezzo, Japanese at Wagamama, South American at Las Iguanas, French at Le Bistro Pierre, or a little bit of everything (plus cocktails) at The Seco Lounge. While Le Bistro Pierre is something of an outcast in its location by the green, the other restaurants are all cosied up together by the harbour. Darkened by the night but illuminated with lights from the busy restaurants, the harbour looks pretty magical in the evenings. I do mean it when I say busy though: diners are quickly catching onto this beautiful spot, and the restaurants often become full so it’s worth booking ahead. Hopefully you’ll be sad to leave this gem of a location once your day out comes to an end. I know I was, and this summer will see plenty more shops, cafes and galleries open, bringing even more life and activity to the Yard. If you already know and love the historic Barbican, the Royal William Yard will be right up your street, ready and waiting for the appreciation it rightly deserves. Bethany Miall To find out more visit: http://royalwilliamyard.org/ for general information, including a map and parking details 47

GREAT ESCAPES

Near...

...and Far Guided, behindthe-scenes Art Safari

Nearer than you might think! Well this is an escape of a very different nature, with a relatively small price tag and absolutely no travel requirements. Many of you will know, have met or perhaps heard of Nigel Jenkins, better known for his tree surgery business, organisational skills for the Horseshoe Run or perhaps Nichola’s article on him some issues back where she described him as both an ‘adrenalin junkie’ and ‘mad as a box of frogs’! Well perhaps this could be another of his madder ideas but I believe this one’s definitely got legs… Back in 2011 Nigel and his girlfriend Erica took a month long trip to New Zealand, and whilst travelling near Dunedin on the South Island, they came across a country show. On their meanderings around the show Nigel was rather taken by a stand run by Steve August selling his portable ‘Kiwi Tubs’. The leaflet describes them as ‘A Seriously Portable Hot Tub’ and depicts families and couples enjoying the constant warmth of a luxury hot tub in various locations, not least the beach, by the rivers edge, in snowy mountains and more commonly in the garden. Nigel was so taken with these ingenious, yet simple hot tubs, he parted with several thousands of pounds and bought two! They were duly parceled up and shipped halfway back around the world to Devon. For the last two years he has taken them to various locations for both himself and his friends to enjoy. The idea has become so popular, that Nigel is now hiring out the hot tubs (a minimum of two nights) to anyone wanting to perhaps celebrate a special occasion,

Excludes: Kenya visa ($50); personal painting equipment. Please note: strictly limited to ten participants (non-painting partners are welcome). For a brochure and more details: mark@ventureco-worldwide.com 01822 616 191.

have on a camping trip or at a holiday home or for those just wanting to sit out at home and relax under the occasional Devon starry skies. All you need is a water supply whether from a tap, the river or even the sea. Not only are the hot tubs extremely portable (Nigel delivers them single-handedly on the back of his pick-up truck), they are also relatively eco friendly too. They have no need for chemicals, no electricity, no pumps or plumbing and are run entirely on either firewood or bottled gas (or a combination of both). They fit up to six people or four comfortably. The system consists of a self-contained tough insulated plastic ‘tub’ with a wrap-around slatted wood surround and a brass and copper burner with flu. It works similarly to that of a domestic hot water cylinder. Fire in the burner heats the water, which makes it expand and rise up through the top hose and into the tub. At the same time cooler water flows in through the bottom hose to replace it. The circulation continues as long as there is a heat source burning in the burner, so the water in the tub steadily gets hotter. Adding or leaving fuel out of the burner can then regulate the temperature. If this all sounds too complicated – well not to worry, as Nigel will set the whole system up for you, wherever you would like it and stays with it until the water is just the right temperature. All you then need to do is pop the odd log into the burner, to ensure it stays at the temperature you require. Fortunately Nigel’s hot tub was available for hire for a two night stint, for my own family gathering at New Year. Despite the rain and gale force winds we all braved the elements at 11.30pm and jumped into the beautifully hot water accompanied by the necessary glass of fizz. For about ten minutes around midnight the skies temporarily cleared to reveal twinkling stars. A great way to see in the New Year! If you would be interested in hiring a hot tub or would like to find out more, please contact Nigel on 01822 854432 or 07855 952438. Lizzie Watt

Includes: BA flights; internal flights to Lamu; all meals; all accommodation; as much or as little tuition in a broad range of painting techniques as you like; Venture Co guide; easels and paper.

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

Kenya’s Rift Valley & Lamu Island Venture Co has launched a bespoke art safari with Bristol-based artist Linda Alvis. The safari consists of a series of open air workshops that begin on the shores of the flamingo lakes (where the opening shot of “Out of Africa” was filmed) and applies an artist’s eye to Kenya’s people, wildlife and architecture. The safari includes a behind-the-scenes visit to the Nairobi gallery and a private dinner and reading with Nairobi’s favourite author, Binyavanga Wainaina, winner of the Caine Prize for literature. Safaris to Naivasha and Nakuru national parks; tea on the lawn at Elsamere, home of Joy Adamson, where Born Free began, with accommodation in wonderful lodges that are Africa’s best kept secret. The adventure continues by flying down to the Indian Ocean and spending four nights in Shella Royal House, overlooking the tranquil, turquois ocean and powder-white beach. The island of Lamu has no vehicles and is a perfect peaceful place to study traditional dhows and sailing vessels. Date: 20th Feb to 2nd March 2015. Cost - £3,845 www.moorlinks.co.uk

Tailor-made Travel est 1999

01822 616191

Treks : Rides : Safaris : Beach Holidays Paddons Row, Tavistock 01822 616191 www.ventureco-worldwide.com l mark@ventureco-worldwide.com 49

BUSINESS

IT FAQs

BUSINESS Gidon from The Technology Company answers your technology questions

Q. I still have a Windows XP computer. I know support from Microsoft has run out. What does this mean and what are my options? Windows XP will continue to work but may become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. We’d recommend upgrading to Windows 7 or 8 if the machine is less than 5 years old or purchasing a new machine or tablet. If you choose to continue using XP, don’t use Internet Explorer but download another browser such as Google Chrome. You’ll also need to make sure your anti-virus software still supports XP. Q. How do I print directly from my phone or tablet? Apple and Android devices both support wireless printing through many apps but only if you have a wireless printer and it supports Apple’s AirPrint or Google’s Cloud Print. If you have a wireless printer without these features you can usually download a free app from the printer’s manufacturer to print wirelessly. If you don’t have a wireless printer you can download Google

News from Geoffrey Cox MP

Chrome and enable the Google Cloud Print Connector: http:// tinyurl.com/ttccloudprint. The wired printer then becomes Google Cloud Print enabled. Q. I would like to access my files from multiple computers and devices. How can I achieve this? The best option is to use a Cloud storage service such as Dropbox, OneDrive or Google Drive. They work exactly like a USB memory stick but you can access the drive via your Internet connection wherever you are and on any device. Dropbox is supported by the most devices but only offers 2GB for free and extra storage is expensive. Microsoft’s OneDrive integrates well with their Office package and you get upwards of 7GB of storage. Google Drive offers 15GB and works best with their range of services. All services require you download a free app. If you have any questions now or for a future column, and for all previous articles, please visit thetechnologycompany. co.uk/linksqa.

Meeting the challenges which face our landscape Thanks to the incredible hard work undertaken by residents, business owners and local authorities, it will be hard for those who visit our county this summer to appreciate just how much damage was caused by the recent storms and resulting flooding. It is a credit to the people of Devon how quickly we have been able to show the rest of the UK that we are very much ‘open for business’. What our communities will now hope is that the lessons of this unprecedented weather have been learnt so that the South West is never cut off again, and I am certainly doing all I can to ensure this is the case.

Over recent months I have also raised concerns with the Secretary of State over the proposed relaxation of planning laws, which I believe are simply not practical in our area’s most prized natural asset: Dartmoor. Our constituency is one of incredible natural beauty and historic importance. As your MP I can assure you that I will continue to represent and support my constituents to ensure that this stunning landscape is not permanently altered, and that our tourist industry can thrive no matter what obstacles may stand in our way.

In February I met with the Transport Secretary to impress upon him the importance of repairing transport links to the region, and I am delighted by the speed with which the Penzance to London rail line has reopened. I have also made it clear that the current review of Devon and Cornwall’s rail links should consider creating new or reopening old lines to ensure that we have a strong and reliable transport network in the future no matter what the climate throws at us!

Geoffrey Cox, MP

There are, of course, many other challenges which face us, including the proliferation of giant wind turbines across West Devon. My constituents will be well aware of how seriously I take the threat posed by these industrial machines and - whilst I believe that investing in renewable energy is important – I continue to work on behalf of my constituents to ensure that our beautiful and historical landscape is not permanently altered.

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 benefitting 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.

For more information please contact Lucy Atwill or Victoria Fordham at Curtis Whiteford Crocker Solicitors on 01752 204444 or lucy@curtissolicitors.co.uk If you are not able to attend at

the office, don’t worry, we offer HOME VISITS! 50

editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

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BUSINESS

New helpline gives access Plough & Share Credit Union Every Wednesday between the hours of 11am and 1pm in to business support the PRINCETOWN COMMUNITY CENTRE The Peninsula City Deal Growth Hub – being delivered in partnership by GAIN - collects into one place everything and everyone businesses need to know to help them succeed and grow – from expert business advice and mentoring to innovation workspace and R&D facilities, funding and investment support. Entrepreneurs and business now have easy access to this advice and support following the launch of a new free telephone and email helpline.

GAIN’s expert advisors will help businesses cut through the often complex range of business support by honing in on a business’s current position and growth aspirations to provide useful and relevant advice and direct them to the most appropriate services, providers and investment support. Following the telephone helpline, a new GAIN website will provide a comprehensive resource and forum for businesses that want to grow, people with ideas and investors. Businesses can call the new Business Engagement Service helpline on 0800 073 2020 or email: info@gaininbusiness.com

The Credit Union is a financial cooperative, owned and controlled by its own members. It offers SECURE SAVINGS and LOW COST LOANS in your village; run by volunteers from the community it keeps its running costs to a minimum. It is non-profit making and is a great way of providing people with economic loans to help them meet unexpected bills. * You can save as little as £1 per week, children can save too. Save for those unexpected bills such as car repairs or new school uniform or a new washing machine, or just save up for Christmas. * You can borrow up to twice your savings after only 13 weeks of regular saving. Interest rates are unbeatable – a maximum of 2% per month on your outstanding balance. Compare that with the rates charged by High Street banks etc! * No minimum loan amount or minimum repayment period. * Affordability must be established before a loan is agreed.

Assistive Technology in the Home “We need to get Dad online”, I said to myself after yet another request for me to Google something obscure (this time, the history of the Tamar Valley line). Dad said going online held a certain appeal, but that there were lots of things stopping him, or so he thought. Dad is 72, retired and lives alone. He also has Parkinsons, which means he has reduced mobility and dexterity. He worried about the cost, safety and whether he’d be capable of using it. He didn’t think he’d even be able to use a keyboard or mouse, let alone navigate the World Wide Web.

isolation and loneliness. Being able to use the internet helps you keep up to date with what your friends and family are doing by sharing emails and photos. And given that there are now over 700 million websites, even on days when you can’t get out, you can still explore the world. So, did Dad get connected? Yes, and it’s changed his life! On rainy days he Googles his favorite subjects, checks for the latest photos of his grandchildren and orders his copy of Tamar Valley Trains. Helen Rogers, Amano Computer Services

The above scenario may be familiar. Computers and the internet are now a huge part of most people’s lives, but for some it can be easier to see the difficulties than the benefits. In fact, around 58% of over 65’s have never owned a computer or used the internet. And with most functions on a desktop PC now available on a smartphone or tablet there is a growing sense amongst older people that using IT and the internet is beyond their abilities. This is where Assistive Technology (AT) can help. AT is any product or service that improves the ability of people with disabilities or impairments to communicate, learn and live independent, fulfilling and productive lives. Voice recognition software allows you to operate your computer without using the keyboard or mouse. Text-tospeech software reads out what is shown on your screen, large key, high visibility keyboards and screen magnifiers help if you have a sight impairment and ergonomic mice and keyboards are essential for those with impaired manual dexterity. A.T can also help with daily life. A smartphone can be used as a personal organiser to remind you to take medication or post a birthday card and from paying bills to doing the weekly shop, the internet does it all. But one of the biggest benefits for the older or disabled user has to be the reduction in social

Computer Services and IT Support Computer repairs & upgrades • virus removal • healthchecks & servicing • broadband & internet • training

Tavistock, Tavistock Superfast service • Professional technicians For expert advice and help with any IT problem call us on

01822 600060 52

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www.moorlinks.co.uk

Collect & return service available

West East Cornwall Devon & & East West Cornwall Devon

acs@amanotech.com • www.amanotech.com 8 Atlas House, West Devon Business Park, PL19 9DP

GREEN NEWS

Joining forces to save energy and money

Tamar Energy Community (TEC) A new social enterprise has just formed called Tamar Energy Community (TEC). Initially TEC will provide a shop where anyone can come for free, impartial advice on anything related to energy. Volunteers will help you to understand your electricity bill, discuss how to cut your energy use, explain what renewable technology is available and suitable for you, and whether it really works! It will also hold a register of trusted green technology installers, taking much of the worry out of making these purchases. You can find out more, or volunteer, by contacting Kate through the Transition Tavistock website.

Have you had the heating on less this winter because of rising energy prices? With the support of Transition Tavistock, three new local projects may now be able to help.

Tavistock College - Solar Panels Lastly Tavistock College has an exciting project to install solar panels. They’re already well on the way to raising the £20,000 needed. Once they’re up and generating, the income earned will help boost the school budget, cut carbon emissions and teach pupils about energy, climate change and fundraising. Anyone can donate, or attend one of the many forthcoming fundraising events. Liz Whitwell

Horrabridge Energy Savers

Liz Whitwell is a member of Transition Tavistock, a local eco charity that seeks to bring our community together by sharing knowledge and practical ideas to use less energy and resources. Here she tells us of three new projects happening in our area. Energy prices have doubled over the last 10 years and households now spend an average of 5% of their income on electricity and heating fuels (a huge 11% for the poorest among us). Our reliance on the Big 6 national energy providers means almost all the money we pay them leaks out

like access to the presentations, do get in touch through the Transition Tavistock website.

of the local economy - like water down the drain. All over the country however, communities are getting together for the benefit of local people not just profits for shareholders. The Tavistock area is no exception. There are some exciting projects already underway with more in the pipeline.

We supply and install individually designed renewable energy systems. We work with domestic and commercial clients to deliver the renewable energy system solutions most suited to their needs.

Another local project running until the end of 2014 is Horrabridge Energy Savers. Volunteers from Transition Tavistock have run a series of free workshops to give advice on energy. Householders are being encouraged to complete an on-line home energy check to understand how much energy they use and what actions could be taken to reduce this. Advice is available on energy saving measures such as what products really work to insulate and reduce heat loss, and there should be opportunities for ‘bulk buying’. If you’d like to run a similar scheme in your community, or would

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Transition Tavistock: Meet us at ‘Green Drinks’, 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Union Inn, King Street, Tavistock. All welcome. Web: www.transitiontavistock.org.uk Email: transitiontavistock@gmail.com Hire a hot tub for that special occasion, at home, holiday or camping trip • Delivered to the location of your choice (within Devon or Cornwall)

• Full set-up to desired temperature within 3 hours • Full instructions for use • Suitable for up to 6 people • All fuel supplied (gas or logs) • Water supply required (tap, river or sea)

Solar Photovoltaic Solar Thermal Wind Turbines Domestic RHI now available Unit 24, Crelake Industrial Estate, Pixon Lane, Tavistock

Call Nigel Jenkins: 01822 854432 (evenings) or 07855 952438 (day)

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www.newgenerationenergy.co.uk 54

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HISTORY

Georgina, Duchess of Bedford Drinking tea in a comfortable lounge at Hotel Endsleigh I am struck by the woman who shaped this valley two hundred years ago. A woman described by some as manipulative and magnetic, by others fashionable, beautiful and playful, she brought a little Regency decadence to rural Devon. Born in 1781 at Gordon castle in Banffshire to the Duke and Duchess of Gordon she was no stranger to the aristocracy and grew up amidst the most influential political, cultural and social movers and shakers of her time. Her mother, who could have been a model for Austin’s Mrs Bennet, had high hopes for her daughter and sought an engagement with one of the wealthiest men in England, Francis the 5th Duke of Bedford. However his untimely death in 1803 led to a change of plans and Georgina instead married his brother John, the next in line. John at this time was a widower with three sons. He and Georgina were to have twelve further children. On her marriage Georgina became Duchess of Bedford, mistress of Woburn. The Duke and Duchess wanted to create a rural retreat, somewhere to escape from courtly life at Woburn.

Deep in the Tamar valley, Georgina found Endsleigh, a small farmstead and decided to make it into a shooting and fishing lodge. The view from the thatched cottage was reminiscent of the Highlands and was perhaps part of the appeal for the Duchess. This home was to become their special place and the Duke indulged Georgina allowing her to let her imagination and budget run wild. The most fashionable landscape gardener Humphry Repton, who had already worked at Woburn, and the architect Jeffry Wyatt (later Wyatville) were employed to shape the house and grounds into a modern home to suit the Bedford’s lifestyle in the “picturesque” style, known as Cottage Orné. The main house was built over six years from local Hurdwick stone and wood. It was designed to accommodate their large family, being made up of two cottage blocks, the main house and the nursery wing with small cosy rooms, linked by a corridor and curved garden for the children called the Parterre. Georgina was a modern mother, her study overlooked the Parterre and she often spent time playing with her children. Work on the gardens and outbuildings continued after the main house was built. In the arboretum every tree was carefully chosen by the Duke and Duchess. It still contains hundreds of specimen trees of arboreal and historical importance, many noted in the Champion Book of Trees of Great Britain. Georgina’s unfettered romanticism led to the creation of a faux Swiss cottage overlooking the river and a miniature dairy where she and her friends played at farming. Despite their devotion for each other, both the Duke and the

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Duchess took lovers. In her forties Georgina began a lasting affair with the artist Edwin Landseer, twenty years her junior. She was to become the love of his life and he made many intimate portraits of the Bedford family, especially Georgina and her last child, Lady Rachel who was rumoured to have been his. The Duke died in 1839 at the age of 73. These were difficult days for Georgina. Her step son Francis, the new heir to the Bedford estate cut her off from the family. She did not regret giving up Woburn, but the place she really missed was Endsleigh. Bereft, she divided her time between London and Scotland, and finally as her health deteriorated, a villa in Nice. She died in 1853 with her daughter Rachel by her side. After her death most of Landseer’s pictures and drawings were kept in the family and shared between her children. In order to pay death duties Endsleigh was sold in the 1960’s. The Endsleigh Fishing Club was formed in order to buy the house and maintain the fishing rights on this stunning stretch of river. In 2004 Olga Polizzi bought the property complete with many original fittings rewww.moorlinks.co.uk

storing it to its former glory and creating in this idyllic setting Hotel Endsleigh and the Gardens we know today. Georgina was a remarkable modern woman; she was the child of controversial political parents, second wife to a Duke, a stepmother who in her forties took a young lover. She lived in the epicentre of high society during the selfindulgent Regency era, surrounded by powerful figures from her mother to her step son, the Prime Minister Lord John Russell. In her honour the hotel runs a Georgina’s members club for locals who share an interest in the house and its surroundings. It was Georgina’s passion, sanctuary and home, and today remains a beautiful, peaceful, rustic yet understated elegant place to visit. Nichola Williams

FAMILY HISTORY Trained historian and professional genealogist provides illustrated reports telling the story of your ancestors and their times, family trees, or help with your own research. Request a free information leaflet. Free initial consultation. fhistoryresearch@gmail.com www.family-historyresearch.co.uk 57

TRADE SECRETS

John Boylett Electrical Services

Trade Secrets Our new section ‘Trade Secrets’ delves a little deeper into the myriad of possible careers we choose and why we choose them.

Domestic Rewires & Installations

Ulrike Hoffmann Johnson VETERINARY SURGEON

Part P Qualified

Why did you become a vet?

AERIALS . SKY & FREESAT. INSTALLS . TV SALES . RENTALS . REPAIRS .

As a child I always loved science and animals; the combination of both led me to veterinary medicine.

Phone: 07725

How much training is involved, what qualifications do you need?

I am from Germany, the system there is different. You need a good result on your assessment test for medical studies and good ‘A’levels. My degree course lasted five and a half years, over which time I had lectures, practical and clinical work for 8 hours a day plus a series of oral examinations. Because there are no written exams, my final oral exams took 6 months to complete. In the UK you would need very good ‘A’ levels in science and maths, followed by a degree in veterinary medicine typically lasting 5 years.

Email: enquiries@yeltv.co.uk Over 20 years of experience. Your local, independent SKY expert

How long have you been a vet?

and patients (animals) in our drop in surgery and during appointments. Every day is different because every case is unique. We have routine appointments for nail clipping, worming and castration through to surgery to remove foreign bodies, repair breaks and even emergency surgery which can be very challenging. Suffice to say we are always busy and there is always one of the vets on call.

Where do you work?

What would you say to someone thinking of this career?

12 years.

At Drake Vets. I predominantly treat small animals which I like because we can focus on treating dogs, cats and small pets to the best of our ability and with the best modern equipment available. I have experienced working with all sorts of animals and chose to specialise in small animals. I am currently taking a course in Advanced Veterinary Practice specialising in small animal internal medicine.

Who else works with you?

We have a great team of veterinary nurses, receptionists, directors and vets as well as student nurses and occasional student vets.

What is involved in being a vet and how does your day usually unfold? Drake Vets is open from 8.30am when we have consultations and surgery. In the afternoon we see more clients (humans) 58

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It’s a great job and I love it. It’s versatile, challenging, exciting and scary sometimes. You never have the same day twice. You need to have good people skills as well as a love of animals. You need to be prepared to work hard, for long hours including weekends and nights – and holidays too!

What is the best thing about your job? Puppies and kittens!!

If you have an interesting ‘Trade’ that you would like to share with others, please get in touch. Email: editorial@moorlinks.co.uk or call 01822 853110

Visit yeltv.co.uk to ‘GET A CLEARER PICTURE.’

The Smithy Meavy Yelverton Devon PL20 6PJ

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Commercial & Residential window cleaning service Family run business for 11 years Fully insured Sills, frames & doors all cleaned Free quotations www.sajwindowcleaners.co.uk 01752 258807 07936 101620

Covering Telverton . Buckland Monachorum . Walkhampton . Horrabridge . Clearbrook Crapstone . Meavy . Milton Combe . Bere Peninsula . Dousland . Princetown . Derriford . Plymouth editorial@moorlinks.co.uk

www.moorlinks.co.uk

Eastwood Garage

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PAINTER & DECORATOR

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LAST WORD

Why advertise your business with us? Well – we’ll let our customers tell you why…. Thank you Moor Links, I was inundated with calls after placing my advert with you recently, proving that your publication is a great way to reach the local community. Sarah Hughes, Childminder

Since advertising with Moor Links/Tavy Links magazine, interest and income have increased significantly. Kerry Ward, Fourward Health

I value the Links magazines because people read them! It’s such a good quality publication that people hold on to it and I have found that enquiries are generated for weeks after publication. Mark Davison, VentureCo Worldwide We have been advertising in the Moor Links for 2 years now and the ad pays for itself time and time again! Lizzie and her team are really friendly and always happy to help. Stuart Castles, SAJ Windows Advertising with Moor & Tavy Links has been worth every penny, with great response to the advert from the local community. I now have very loyal local customers and would like to thank them for their support. It more than pays for itself each time I advertise. Paul Waycott, Moor Warm I would recommend Moor Links unreservedly. It has helped my local business thrive, reaching moor clients. Sue Limb, Helping Hands Bespoke Property Services

Due to the continuing success of our Moor Links & Tavy Links advert we have successfully continued to expand our own business. Mike Tozer, Dousland Garden Machinery.

Hotel Endsleigh

Join the Georgina’s Club… where members enjoy our elegant, peaceful setting at preferential rates.

We find advertising in Moor/Tavy Links to be beneficial to our business. Our customers look forward to reading the magazine, which is wonderfully produced and printed. Lizzie and her team ensure the magazine is interesting and informative which means customers hold on to it for longer. Gidon Reid, The Technology Company I have advertised with Moor Links / Tavy Links since the very start of their wonderful magazine, four years ago. I find Lizzie and the team to be extremely professional and they are always on hand to help with any marketing ideas, many of which originate from Lizzie! The product they offer is to a very high standard and the feedback I receive from the general public is always positive. I would like to thank Lizzie and the team for all their hard work and support. Michelle Stacey, M&B Residential Lettings We regard Moor and Tavy Links as an essential part of our marketing plan for The Garden House – they are top quality publications, guaranteed to reach the widest possible local audience. Sue Allen, Trustee, Fortescue Garden Trust

We have advertising sizes to suit all budgets; we can help with suggestions for marketing and also create advert artwork that gets results. Get in touch and advertise your business with Moor & Tavy Links magazines and reach 15,000 homes and businesses in West Devon. Call Lizzie or Jane on 01822 853110 ( 07540 707505 or 07772 619808) Email: advertising@moorlinks.co.uk Visit our new website www.tavylinks.co.uk for more details or find us on 62

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Milton Abbot 01822 870000 www.hotelendsleigh.com