Oke Links - JanFeb 2018 Issue by Links Magazines

OKE LINKS

January / February 2018

Issue 7

Okehampton • Moretonhampstead • Chagford • Chichacott • Stockley • Belstone • Bondleigh • North Tawton • Sampford Courtenay • Taw Green • Sticklepath • South Zeal • Throwleigh • Wonson • Lydford • Lewdown • Bridestowe • Gidleigh North Bovey • Sourton • Meldon • Boasley Cross • Bratton Clovelly • Portgate • Lewtrenchard

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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AN ACTIVITY NEAR YOU . . .

s g n i w g n i d a e r p S in 2018!

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INSIDE: LOCAL PEOPLE • SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT • WHAT’S ON • GARDENING • HISTORY • NOTICEBOARD INSPIRING PEOPLE

Top athletes and volunteers supporting young people

CHARITY FOCUS

How walking can change lives

WHAT’S ON

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Oke Links has hit the New Year running as the saying goes hot on the heels of celebrating our first birthday, we have now extended our circulation area to include the TQ13 sector 8 area, covering Chagford, Moretonhampstead, Gidleigh and North Bovey. It means the total distribution of Oke Links has been increased to 10,233 copies, delivered to every home and business address by the Royal Mail. Not only does the magazine increase in distribution represent a fantastic opportunity for our advertisers to capitalise on the extra readership, it means we have a far bigger area in which to source our editorial content - a win win situation! So, a big welcome from the team to all our new readers - please do get in touch if you have a story to tell, an organisation you’d like to profile, an event you’d like to publicise or a charity you think could do with a bit of a boost. Being the New Year and the traditional time for making resolutions and putting festive excesses behind us, I have concentrated on activity in this edition. I have met inspirational athletes Andrew White and Christi Brereton - Andrew is a gold and silver medallist from last year’s Invictus Games and Christi Brereton is an undefeated world champion Muay Thai boxer. Committed instructor Rob Ewen is passionate about the outdoors and has volunteered thousands of hours over the years in passing on his knowledge and experience to hundreds of youngsters in the area. Stuart Lord from Ocra gives his advice on the best way to choose a new sporting hobby and Fiona Sundari Law explains how yoga can really reach the parts that traditional exercise regimes can’t! I have learned about the wonderful opportunities to get out and about at Roadford Lake and Pat Kennington tells how the Okehampton Walk and Talk group has changed her life and the lives of others in our charity feature. I hope you enjoy reading this issue and remember - please do contact me if you have editorial ideas for the March/April edition.

WELCOME & CONTENTS

CONTENTS 4N OTICEBOARD An update from the neighbourhood police team, suggestions for a healthy 2018 and how Belstone helps the Children’s Hospice 12 SPORTS NEWS A thriving new children’s football club and news from Okehampton RFC 15 LOCAL PEOPLE How sport and activity has shaped the lives of three inspirational members of the community 22 CHARITY FOCUS Walking isn’t just good for you - it’s a great social activity! 25 HEALTH & WELLBEING Yoga - it really does reach the parts other exercises can’t! 28 GARDENING It might be the middle of winter - there’s still work to do in the garden 31 FARMING DIARY Feeding the stock isn’t as simple as you might think... 32 FEATURE Roadford Reservoir - a stunning place with activities galore! 54 WALKS WITH WINNIE A flat and easy walk from Finch Foundry in Sticklepath 58 HISTORY Turning back the clock on a local sports club

Jane Jane Honey – Editor.

Call our Okehampton office on 01837 51 21 00 Rosemary House, Market Street, EX20 1HN

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Gilbert Stephens LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (no: 536070).

Please contact me via email at: jane.honey@linksmagazines.co.uk or 07971 917071.

The deadline for any inclusions in March/April issue is 31st January 2018. We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our many contributors for so kindly giving us their time and expertise, in helping keep our magazine so interesting to all. OKE Links is produced by Olijam Communications Ltd. THE OLIJAM TEAM:

Editor: Editorial Director: Publisher: Design: Advertising:

Jane Honey Lizzie Watt Tim Randell Sara Venner, Julian Rees Jane Daniel, Victoria Smith

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Contact Tim, Jane or Victoria on 07450 161 929 / 01822 615627 to disuss your advertising enquiries. Email: advertising@linksmagazines.co.uk or visit our website: www.dartmoorlinks.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 Oke Links or Olijam Communications Ltd accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. All data contained in advertisements are subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and are accepted by us in good faith at the time of going to press. Reproduction of editorial is strictly prohibited without prior permission from the publisher. All rights reserved copyright © 2018

NOTICEBOARD

Looking forward to a great new year at Hen Central

Catching up with the team... It’s been a busy year in the community The Okehampton Neighbourhood Policing Team has recently undergone a few staff changes and currently consists of a sergeant, two police constables and two police community support officers (PCSOs). A new addition to the team is Sgt Pennie Channing. Pennie is the team leader for Okehampton and Tavistock stations. The Neighbourhood Policing Team is on Facebook and Twitter to engage with a wider audience. They are using social media to better engage young and old people alike. The team has its own website through which you can email members and also read about the priorities they have set on their patches. It also regularly contributes to a ‘News from the Blues’ column in the local newpaper. PCSO Lisa Smith has been working in the neighbourhood team for 11 years at Okehampton. PCSO Marcus Jarvis also covers the area and they are accompanied by two neighbourhood beat managers, PC Nathan Walker and PC Nadine Wilson. The Okehampton policing area is divided into three sections; Okehampton Rural West (Hatherleigh and its surrounding villages), Okehampton Rural East (North Tawton, Chagford and surrounds) and Okehampton town centre. The neighbourhood team often assists in the investigation of low level crime, providing reassurance and assistance for victims of crime, gathering local intelligence to identify offenders and keeping the public safe, attending safeguarding meetings for vulnerable members of the community, delivering talks to school-aged children on topics such as road safety and many other tasks. They visit vulnerable groups of people in the community to offer advice on crime prevention and various topics relevant to the audience. In summer 2017, PCSOs Lisa Smith and Marcus Jarvis visited the Okehampton Catholic Women’s group to hold a crime prevention advice session. They were on hand to answer questions from the members of the group regarding keeping safe at home, when out and about, as well as property marking for their valuables in their homes and outbuildings. The session proved to be a valuable

lesson for some of the women and they were very grateful to Lisa and Marcus for attending. The team regularly engages with young people through visits to Okehampton Primary School and Okehampton College as well as youth clubs and also holds talks for local scout, cubs and brownie groups. The PCSOs also stage property marking sessions at the schools when students can bring along their mobile phones and other valuable devices to be security marked and registered. In September 2017 Lisa Smith, along with PCSO Kevin Williams and PCSO Mark Canvin from Tavistock Police, attended West Devon Borough Council’s annual Junior Life Skills event, which saw its highest ever turnout of students. The learning event, held every year for Year 6 pupils, challenges children in ‘real-life’ scenarios that teach essential safety lessons. Lisa, Kevin and Mark delivered valuable internet safety lessons to 549 children from across West Devon. The action-packed sessions were held at Okehampton’s Parklands Leisure Centre and Tavistock Town Hall. The PCSOs, along with seven other partner agencies, joined with West Devon Borough Council to present ten different scenarios.

The British Hen Welfare Trust, which has a re-homing base at South Zeal, is to build a new centre at its headquarters in South Molton this year, thanks to the success of its Christmas Happy Hens Care Home Appeal 2017. The BHWT has had aspirations for some time to build the UK’s first dedicated hen welfare and education centre. That dream is now close to becoming a reality. Not only will the building be a dedicated re-homing centre and a vast improvement on its current facilities, but it will also give the charity the opportunity to hold training courses, lectures, talks and much more. The centre will be built on a piece of land next to the BHWT offices at Hope Chapel in Rose Ash. Before Christmas, the team of volunteers at South Zeal marked

a huge milestone for the charity by re-homing the 10,000th ex-commercial hen, enabling her free range retirement. Formed in 2005, the British Hen Welfare Trust has to date saved more than 600,000 laying hens from slaughter and has re-homing points across the country,. The hens are 18 months old and are being sent to slaughter as their egg laying has slowed down or become irregular. However nine times out of 10 they continue to lay. The BHWT always welcomes donations to help with running costs and to put towards saving even more hens. In addition, retirement homes for ex-commercial hens are always wanted. If you can help, please make sure you’re registered with www.bhwt.org.uk and then call Hen Central on 01884 860084.

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The children and their teachers were really receptive to the sessions and enjoyed a great day with the PCSOs, asking many questions and showing a lot of interest. PCSO Lisa Smith visited Bridestowe Primary school in November 2017 to talk about road safety to the school children as part of Road Safety week 2017. The children were able to see the police van and Lisa even turned the lights and siren on for them to see and hear! Okehampton Police would like to wish everyone a happy and safe 2018.

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NOTICEBOARD

Worried about fuel bills this winter? As winter continues, some of us start to worry about whether we can afford to put the heating on as often as we should. So here are some suggestions to help reduce your energy bills. Switching supplier can often result in some of the biggest savings on fuel. If you have been with your electric or gas supplier for some time, it’s quite possible you could make a huge annual saving if you switch. People on a low income or means-tested benefits, may also be eligible to apply for Warm Home Discount from their current energy supplier. Anyone receiving Pension Guarantee Credit should get this automatically but those not in receipts of this benefit will need to apply for it. Around 15 of the largest suppliers offer this and have just reopened for applications for 2017-18. The suppliers’ websites will have details on eligibility and an online application form, or you can give the Customer Service team a call to register. Other ways you could save money on energy include being more energy savvy at home; making a number of small changes around the house can add up to significant savings for some households. Check out www.energysavingtrust.org.uk or www.cosydevon.com for fuel saving tips! Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon Citizens Advice is offering specialist energy advice as part of a new Fuel project funded by Scottish Power. If you would like help with the above or any other energy-related issues, you can contact Shirley, Energy Advisor, on 07436 104157/mark@ruraldevoncab.org.uk.

NOTICEBOARD

Supporting the community with substantial grant funding Okehampton United Charity and Okehampton Educational Foundation have had a busy 2017 awarding grants of in excess of £350,000 to support people and groups in Okehampton and the Hamlets (Brightley, Southcott, Meldon and Stockley). The trustees meet monthly and have given grants in 2017 to local groups to support their annual running costs, one-off events and projects, new equipment, room hire and much more. Some of the projects the charity has contributed to in 2017 include building the ‘Men in Sheds’ shed, a family counselling service, art workshops and Okehampton Carnival. A few of the other groups supported in 2017 are OCRA, Wren, Turning Tides, Living free, the Ockment Centre and Young Devon. In total Okehampton United Charity has supported nearly 40 local groups in 2017. Okehampton Educational Foundation has continued to support Okehampton College and Okehampton Primary School with annual allocations. The Music Project run by Community Links has grown in 2017 and the developing skills of the young musicians were on display during their concert in December. Okehampton Educational Foundation also supports Okehampton youngsters to further their education post 16. Okehampton Educational Foundation has awarded 120 scholarships and bursaries to local youngsters studying subjects as varied as electrical apprenticeships, zoo management and medicine. Almost any subject you can think of is being studied by a young person from Okehampton or the Hamlets.

We aim to review your fuel costs whilst keeping your home efficiently warm and cosy this winter!

Okehampton United Charity also has two almshouses and three allotment sites (Castle Road, North Street and Fatherford Road) and Ball Hill Woods, which are all managed and maintained by the charity.

For the most up-to-date advice, please visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk pop into your local office or call Adviceline on 03444 111 444

The charity hosted a celebration evening in December inviting all the local groups they had supported in the past two years to get together to enjoy an evening of networking with music and entertainment from local groups.

Okehampton Citizens Advice (Ockment Centre) Tues & Weds 10-4pm and Fri 10-1pm www.ruraldevoncab.org.uk

If you would like to know more about Okehampton United Charity or Okehampton Educational Foundation please visit the charity’s website at www.okehamptoncharities.org.uk or email Karen Percival (the clerk) at clerk@okehamptoncharities.org.uk.

Finding the right activity or sport for you in 2018 Would you like to move in new ways, have fun, feel happier and healthier, meet new people and be able to take on the challenges that life and you want to throw at it? Let 2018 be the year for finding an activity or sport that is right for you. No matter your age or ability, we are blessed in Okehampton and the surrounding area with a fantastic array of clubs, activity, sports and fitness sessions. Local recreation charity OCRA, working with Fusion, is keen to help people get more active and help you find the right activity for you. A huge range is available, from aqua aerobics to sailing, basketball to bowls, dance to tennis, Tai Chi to running, walking netball to rugby, trampolining to martial arts to walking or climbing. There are also GP referral activity schemes covering everything from seated exercise and archery to fencing, gardening and loads more.

free weekly walks aimed at different fitness levels. A warm welcome awaits you from this social group. Whether you are recuperating after illness or have good fitness levels there are walks for you.

Set challenges on 2018 Whether it’s trying a new activity, keeping an eye on your pedometer or setting yourself a fitness goal, challenges are really motivating. Wy not register for Swimathon with Parklands Leisure Centre? It’s a great way to set your own swimming target and to improve fitness. There are local running events over different distances, like the Chagford 2 Hills, Oke Croak, Belstone and Sourton Fell Runs and the Ruby Run. In 2018 OCRA has attracted some

special events to the area, with 100 mile, 50 mile and marathon endurance runs on Dartmoor plus Cycling Sportives.

Run in the Park A monthly 2.5 or 5km run for children and adults of all ages is a great way to get moving. This is held on the first Sunday of the month at 9.30am - all runs start from the Pavilion in the Park. Stuart Lord, OCRA manager, said: ‘They say “it’s a long way from saying to doing”. Can we help you with the right activity for you? Look at our activities and club contacts on our website www. ocrasport.org.uk ‘Drop us an e-mail on stuart@ocrasport. org.uk or like OCRA on facebook to keep up to date with events, sessions, special offers and club information.’

Fitness The area also has a rich fitness sessions scene, with great instructors that bring joy and cater for everyone. How about trying Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, Tai Chi, swimming, seated exercise, HIT (high intensity training), circuit training, or join one of the local running and cycling groups. The Walk and Talk Group (see the Charity Focus in this issue) organises

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NOTICEBOARD

Belstone and Area Friends of the Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW)

News from Okehampton & District Chamber of Trade My first year as chamber chairman has been an interesting one, getting to know some of the individual business owners, hearing their concerns and learning what the chamber does for the town. I have worked alongside vice chair Lyn Evans to develop a strategic plan for Okehampton based on a SWOT analysis, drawing from the West Devon survey conducted in November 2016. We have already begun discussions with Devon County Council to see how we can resolve some of the issues facing the town. We have attended West Devon Parking Strategy Group meetings to ensure Okehampton is getting its voice heard. I have had the privilege of working alongside chamber member Rebecca Green and a private individual, Michelle Symmons, who brought the Sunday market to Okehampton; Originally done to support the Sunday train it proved so popular it was decided to run a Sunday festive market. This has been wonderfully successful, a real benefit to the town, and I hope other chamber members will come forward and get involved. The food and music festival, co-ordinated by Mish Flexman, was a great success and we received much positive feedback. This has led us to launch a small farmer’s market in Red Lion Yard, we hope that this will become a regular event, especially as there are plans to close the market at Hatherleigh.

the lights, local businessmen freely giving much time to support this work. We have had generous financial donations from Okehampton United Charity, Okehampton Town Council and the Hamlets Council as well as donations from the business community and local people to enable us to carry out these improvements. It shows there is still an amazing community spirit in Okehampton, we had many new faces helping get Christmas trees up this year. We have recently begun hosting a regular networking breakfast networking at the Dovecote in Red Lion Yard on the second Tuesday of each month. Breakfast starts at 7.30am with a guest speaker around 8am. Non-members are welcome. The chamber benefits the local community as businesses work together to enhance the town. Although some businesses have closed over the last 12 months we have also seen new independent shops open and had the fantastic news that the Plume of Feathers is re-opening. Our AGM will be held on Thursday, February 1 at 7.30pm at The Fountain Inn. This an opportunity to share your opinion, meet other business owners and celebrate being a part of Okehampton’s business community. I hope you will join us. Linda Harper Chairman

A lot of work has been done to improve and maintain the high standards of the Christmas lights. An incredibly dedicated, hard-working group is involved in overhauling and upgrading

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Since the opening of Little Bridge House, near Barnstaple, in 1995, CHSW has been providing expert holistic and family-centred care for life-limited children and their families across the South West of England, to ‘make the most of short and precious lives’. Subsequently, two more hospices have opened – Charlton Farm, near Bristol and Little Harbour in St Austell, ensuring that no family should need to travel

more than 90 minutes to receive respite care. CHSW relies on the generosity of the people of the South West to help raise the £9.8 million needed annually to run the hospices and this is where friends’ groups play a large part. The Belstone Friends’ Group consists of four enthusiastic friends – supported by their long-suffering husbands. As parents fortunate enough to have healthy children and being inspired by visits to the hospice, we wanted to offer help and support to such an amazing place and found that joining forces to bully, badger, beguile, beg and bribe our friends and neighbours was an effective way of raising money and so, ten years ago, the friends’ group was born.

Keeping CHSW in the public eye and promoting the fantastic work they do is always at the forefront of our minds, so we have made countless cakes, scones, ploughman’s lunches, gallons of soup, knick-knacks and boxes to package lucky dip prizes; we give presentations to local social and fundraising groups and regularly take visitors around Little Bridge House on open days. Through this, the word has spread into the much wider community, with people from neighbouring villages and towns attending our events or having their own and forwarding the takings to us – you may see our collection boxes in many of the local shops! Thus, we are credited with being responsible for raising over £150,000 so far. The care offered in each of the hospices is wide-ranging; respite and short breaks, emergency, palliative and end of life care. It is not simply about medical and nursing care for sick children but about enriching the lives of the children and their whole family. One of

the best ways to see for yourself the extraordinary work of the CHSW is to visit one of the hospices on their open days, where you can experience for yourself the wonderful atmosphere and all that takes place. In the words of the CHSW’s patron the Duchess of Cornwall: ‘Before I visited I always thought they might be sad places, but it is completely the opposite. They are uplifting and very, very special and I think that this is one of the most exceptional places I have ever seen.’ If you wish to know more about the local Friends’ Group, or to visit the hospice, please contact Angela Hammond 01837 840234 or go to www.chsw.org.uk Alternatively, why not join us at our next event – ‘Snowdrop Sunday’ on February 18 at Andrew’s Corner, Belstone, when we serve homemade soup with bread, cheese scones and cakes from 11am to 4pm – with plenty of snowdrops to see, plus plenty to buy! Edwina and Robin Hill

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NOTICEBOARD

Okehampton & District Transport Group News

DARE gives the low down on SMART meters

We have had a very busy year with a huge increase in requests for transport, this puts enormous pressure on both our volunteers and administration staff. We are always looking for new volunteers, if you could spare an hour or so a week we would love to hear from you - just call the office on 01837 55000 or 07484 525577.

DARE have successfully been providing independent and impartial advice on the SMART meter roll out in North Tawton and the surrounding area, through our SMART Energy GB funded project. We have been very warmly welcomed by a number of groups including the Bow Friendship group, North Tawton’s Tuesday Chat group, the Create and Craft group and those attending the Bow Christmas Market. We have also held a number of open surgeries in North Tawton.

We currently have over 1,250 individual clients, plus we provide transport for care facilities. Last year we carried 3,341 passengers on 6,100 journeys! Our volunteer drivers covered 99,899 miles and gave 8,560 volunteer hours assisting our clients. Our car scheme costs £24,100 to run, so we are constantly looking at ways to raise funds, by grant applications and holding events and a 100 club lottery. We have been lucky to receive funding from the Co-operative Community Fund and the Waitrose green token scheme this year. We have applied to the Aviva Community Fund for funds towards replacing one of our vehicles. We will be holding a coffee morning in the Charter Hall, Okehampton on Saturday, March 10 from 9am until noon, where there will be a variety of stalls and information. We are grateful for donations of goods including books and bric-a-brac. We have increased the number and variety of lifestyle trips on offer both at weekends and weekdays and welcome suggestions of places of interest. Our 15 seater minibus is available for groups and societies. We have been chosen by Devon County Council to take part in some filming for a short film about services available in Devon – this will be on the DCC website when released later this year. Sue Wonnacott Co-ordinator

Following these events, we have found a number of queries have become a running theme of our sessions. Therefore, we thought we would answer these questions through this article and make readers aware that they can contact us should they need any further information.

Capturing great images Okehampton Camera Club is a small and enthusiastic gathering of photographers with a wide range of interests and abilities. Meeting fortnightly at the Church Hall in Market Street, Okehampton, lectures, workshops or demonstrations are conducted to help develop and enthuse the members to create work that is both technically challenging and creative. These images are entered in both internal and external competitions, but there is no compulsion to compete - the aim is to enjoy capturing great images. Members need not have the latest equipment - some have ventured back into film and others have captured stunning images on phones, and tablets. Whatever your background in

photography and where ever you want to take your hobby, the club is a great forum for collaborative and experimental work. The club has an open lecture by Adrian Langdon, entitled My Wildlife Photography, on the evening of February 26 at 7.30pm which is free to attend. If you would like to find out more then you can find the club at: www. okehamptoncameraclub.org including illustrations of club images and the calendar of events. Prospective members are always encouraged to attend lectures or workshops and see what the club gets up to. Image: St Michael’s Mount by Martin Stephenson

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Do I have to have a SMART meter? SMART Meters are not mandatory. However all major energy suppliers have to offer you the chance to have a SMART meter by 2020. Eventually normal meters will no longer be manufactured - if you have a fault with your meter in the future it may have to be replaced with a SMART meter. Do I pay for a SMART meter? No, you should not pay any fee for the SMART meter to be installed or for the home energy display unit, if someone asks for money to install a SMART meter it is a scam. Why would I want a SMART meter? SMART meters are very useful if you find the manual reading of your meter difficult, or if you don’t like energy company representatives visiting your property to read the meter. They are designed to see an end to estimated billing, which can lead to a large number of over-payments. The home energy display can help you identify high energy using appliances, or reveal the consumption of appliances being left on stand-by and gives you your consumption information in pounds and pence. Established in 1984 we have built up a reputation for offering ﬁne quality, value for money clothing, and providing an excellent level of customer service that you just don’t ﬁnd on the high street.

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Can I change fuel supplier, I like to switch to get the best deal? Currently you can switch supplier, although the tariff information will disappear from the home energy display and you may have to take manual meter readings again for your new supplier. There are two generations of meters; SMETS1 & SMETS2. SMETS1 meters communicate with one supplier, SMETS2 have been introduced to overcome this issue and will communicate with a data control company which will then feed consumption information to your supplier, this means you will be able to switch and maintain all functionality. Only SMETS2 meters will be installed from July 2018 and a software change will happen to all SMETS1 meters to make them compliant before 2020. Will a SMART meter work in every home? Unfortunately not all homes are suitable for a SMART meter, this is due to difficult access to the meter, a long distance from the meter to the home, certain wall construction types hamper the signal and areas of low mobile phone signal. The SMETS2 meters have been introduced to try and overcome some of these issues, namely poor phone signal, but it is important to make your supplier aware of any of these matters when they offer you a SMART meter, so they can check if your property will be suitable. DARE is a not for profit social enterprise that offers independent and impartial advice on all renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency matters. We are completely independent and are not partnered with any commercial installers, energy supply companies or consultants. If you would like further information please call us on 01837 52600 or visit us at the Front Office, Okehampton Library, 4 North Street, Okehampton, EX20 1AR.

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SPORTS NEWS

Some outstanding performances at the rugby club Okehampton RFC is having a mixed season so far. At the time of writing the 1st XV are sitting in fourth place in the South West 1 (West) league on 27 points, but with some tough games to come. There have been some outstanding performances in the games so far which bodes well for the rest of the season. The Second XV, which won the Devon Merit Table 1 last season, are finding the going much harder this season and are sitting in the lower half of the table. The Colts are similarly finding life a bit harder this season, but the squad is working hard to improve its performances. The junior section continues to thrive and the enthusiasm of the young players is a joy to behold. The club started using the recently improved back pitch in earnest this season and it is holding up well. The new drainage system installed in 2016 is working well, meaning that its availability is vastly improved over previous years. The main pitch is out of commission for new drainage to be installed and will not be available before September 2018. The costs of these projects have been high and the club is grateful for the support it has received from various bodies, which

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include the RFU, Sport England, Okehampton United Charities and West Devon Borough Council. It is a great tribute to the club’s reputation and ambition that these bodies have shown such confidence in the club. There is a lot of publicity about the involvement of teenage girls in sport of late. The club is working with the RFU and Okehampton College to provide facilities for women’s rugby. This is strong in some areas and the England Women’s team was highly successful in the World Cup last year. The club is waiting on planning permission on its Hilltown Cross site. Once additional facilities are available it is hoped to develop a women’s team to match the best. All are welcome at the club. Fixtures and club information are available on the club web site at www.pitchero.com/clubs/ okehampton Games kick off at 2.30pm over the winter period and you will be assured of a great afternoon’s entertainment so why not come along and support your local club?

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This summer, all eyes will be on Russia for the FIFA World Cup, but for children in the Lydford area, there’s a focus on football a little closer to home. Lydford Foxes is a new and growing youth football club, with a support team determined to go from strength to strength. Lydford Foxes started small, with a few ‘lads and dads’ kicking a ball on the sports field. With a rusty goal at one end and jumpers for goalposts at the other, it was about as grassroots as you could get. But word spread and soon, some 20 to 30 children were turning regularly and thoughts turned to establishing a village youth football club. FA coaching badges were completed, new goals purchased and Lydford Foxes AFC was formed. In the summer of 2017, the club was affiliated with the Devon FA and elected to join the Devon Junior & Minor League, playing against teams in Plymouth, Torpoint, Saltash, Ivybridge and the like. For a village of 400 residents and a club of 40 children, Lydford Foxes are punching above their weight. There are no egos or prima donnas in Lydford, but no shortage of talent or endeavour. Crucially, there’s a culture of willingness to learn and enjoying football with a smile on your face, which is why the club welcomes children of all abilities.

All they require are football boots, shin pads and a desire to play for the team. From the pitch in the picturesque surroundings of West Dartmoor to the clubhouse and support staff, Lydford Foxes has enviable foundations for such a small club. It’s all been possible thanks to the generosity of local individuals, the parish council and Lydford Sports Field, along with the team of volunteers. Not many youth football clubs can boast a hospitality team serving teas, coffees and bacon sandwiches to visiting parents and players! The club also has its own groundsman, with the filling of rabbit holes forming part of his pre-matchroutine. For chairman and U13s coach Gavin Braithwaite-Smith, the long-term development of the players is more

important than a win-at-all-costs mentality. He said: ’t’s great to see 40 youngsters turning up and playing. It might be a cliché to say that it gets the children off PlayStations and into the fresh air, but that’s precisely what the club has achieved. The children have made new friends and are developing life skills for the future. But just as importantly, they’re improving their football skills.’ The club is looking for new players ahead of the 2018-2019 season. Young footballers between the ages of seven and 15 are invited to apply for a free one-month trial, with the clubpromising weekly training and competitive football to players of all abilities. Parents are encouraged to visit www.lydfordfoxes. com or email play@lydfordfoxes.com.

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Christi Brereton An athlete born to win! Christi is tiny. Blonde and fair of complexion, she looks like a puff of wind could blow her away. But looks are very, very deceiving. A professional Muay Thai kick boxer since her early teens, she is a dedicated athlete whose steely determination to win has garnered her a collection of national and international honours, including her first world title belt in Thailand at the age of 15. Now 25, she is a bantam weight world champion, knocking out the latest pretender to her crown, a Frenchwoman, in just one round last October. Christi was brought up in North Tawton and took up Thai boxing at the age of ten as a way of getting fit. She became completely hooked on the sport, travelling to Plymouth for classes where she would train and spar with the boys, as there were so few females taking part.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

On leaving school in Okehampton she started teaching Muay Thai boxing and met Steve Pender, who began to coach Christi at his club in Cornwall. ‘Fast forward, we ended up getting together - you do end up being very close in that type of relationship,’ said Christi. ‘I am a big believer in things happening for a reason. I had always wanted to teach and now have my own gym and decided to start classes around here, in North Tawton, Chagford, Northlew. These classese were really popular, especially with ladies and juniors. A unit became available at Fatherford Farm and we decided the time was right to go forward rather than using village halls. I was only 19 at the time, so I had to grow up really quickly as I also had my daughter, Angelica, when I was 19.’ Unbelievably, Christi went back to fighting when she was just 20 - too soon, in retrospect, as the encounter became her first professional loss. ‘I was just too skinny, but a couple of months later I was back on a winning streak again.’ She now juggles coaching, training and fighting with motherhood, but I get the feeling that Christi thrives on a challenge! She explained that competing in a niche sport meant there could sometimes be a lack of opponents, although the discipline is now growing fast in popularity and has just gained Olympic recognition. At this thought a broad smile

crosses her face. ‘Nicola Adams was 32 when she competed in the Olympics for the first time - you never know!’ When fighting, Muay Thai boxers wear no head protection or shoes and are armed with just a pair of boxing gloves. Christi described herself as ‘fairly mellow’ in general terms but once in the ring she becomes a different person. ‘I am very aggressive when I fight. It’s not something you do for the money, you do it for the buzz of winning. Once you get a taste of winning a fight, there’s nothing like it,’ - and she shows me her cauliflower ears to prove her point! The Team Chaos Muay Thai Fitness Centre now has a dedicated band of young and not so young fans of the sport. Christi explains that thanks to support from organisations like Okehampton United Charities, Ocra and the rotary club, the gym is now well equipped and a very different place from the empty industrial unit taken on by a pregnant 19-year-old and her partner. The Chaos team includes Christi’s young protegée, Chantelle Tippett of Okehampton, who started at classes when she was just ten in Northlew Village Hall. She’s now 16 and a world champion herself. ‘I’ve got one lady I teach who didn’t start until she was 49 and she’s addicted to it. It’s given her confidence and belief in herself - it doesn’t have to be all about fighting. We want to get the best out of everybody that comes to us, tackling obesity, tackling bullying. I just want to give back something to the sport that has given me so much.’ Jane Honey Pictures by Fred Wonnacott Photography You can find Team Chaos on Facebook 15

LOCAL PEOPLE

Rob Ewen MBE An ex-serviceman who’s never happier than when out on the moor.... Former Royal Marine Rob Ewen, who lives in Okehampton, is a real outdoors man. It’s not surprising really after completing 25 years with the Corps, before serving another 17 years as the South West’s recruitment manager for the naval services. It was for this role and his work with youth groups that he was honoured with an MBE in 2010, presented to him at Buckingham Palace by Princess Anne. ‘It was a total surprise when I got this official looking letter from Buckingham Palace. It was a real honour and it really amazed me at the ceremony. I don’t know how many of us were invested that day but she spent time with everyone and the knowledge she had about me was incredible. She knew about Okehampton, about my work with the Duke of Edinburgh awards to the extent that at one point I really thought she must be wired up to know so much! It was a really special day.’ Rob’s experience as a mountain leader and his love of climbing, walking and exploring has spilled into his life away from work too, having committed thousands of hours to voluntary work in the Okehampton area. His two daughters joined the Brownies, the ATC, the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) award scheme. Rob stepped up to help these various

organisations; ‘so many parents use these things like creches but as I watched people making sure things worked properly I felt I ought to be doing my bit. The girls also swam, so I ended up being chairman of the Otters swimming club for three years. They also did DofE so I got collared for that too. I also got asked to join the governors at Okehampton College and then I ended up assisting training Ten Tors teams via the school as well.’

‘It’s great to be able to pass on the knowledge I learnt as a Royal Marine, and to see young people getting the enjoyment of being outdoors. Seeing their faces when they finish their expedition - when they are quite rightly very proud of what they have achieved, and knowing you have helped them get to this point from scratch, is really rewarding.’ Jane Honey

Rob is also a huge rugby fan and he was honoured to serve as president of Okehampton RFC for two years and is still a club vice president. He is also the national chairman of the Royal Marines Association RFC, organising fundraising events and games each year. He also loves to ski and will even take to the hills above Okehampton on his cross-country skis whenever the weather allows - as he says wistfully; ’I could do with a really bad winter!’ But it is the DofE awards that he is particularly involved in now - preparing the teams for the expedition section of their challenges, which sees them plan and train for a two, three or four day trek, depending on which level award they are attempting. The gold qualifying expeditions often take place in the Lake District or even further afield, but having Dartmoor on the doorstep provides the ideal training ground. ’It’s all about getting the team gelling, learning about themselves, that’s what I like - I love to teach the youngsters the skills that they can build on in the future, whether they walk on Dartmoor, go to the Alps or other high mountain regions.’ This year Bob and his fellow supervisors have 55 youngsters attempting their Silver Award. Within the expedition section, the participants will undertake a planned activity and their walk will probably be around 45 kilometres in terms of distance, spread over three days. They will carry their tents,

equipment and all supplies with them. The teams undertake the challenge alone and no mobile phones are allowed, although the trainers are aware of where they should be at certain times and would take action if unexpected weather conditions became dangerous. ‘We try to keep them isolated so they really have to think about what they are doing. It’s a balance between staying safe and not being on top of them. It takes a lot of planning and training.’

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LOCAL PEOPLE

‘It was such an experience, it was like being on top of the world, absolutely mind-blowing!

Andrew White A journey from injury to international honours Andrew White always knew he wanted to follow the family tradition and join the forces - his granddad served in World War II and his dad in the Artillery. In 2012 young Andrew, a former Okehampton College student, signed up with the Army and after basic training joined the Coldstream Guards. His face lights up as he recalls taking part in the Trooping of the Colour in London: ‘It was amazing; a lot of hard work practising to get to the Coldstream standards but on the day I was almost the end marker, about four metres from the Queen, which was a huge honour!’ The young guardsman relished Army life, taking part in the Cambrian Patrol, one of the most challenging

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competitions in the world and quickly becoming promoted before embarking on a four-month tour in Afghanistan in 2014. ‘I had a really good and successful tour. You are surrounded by a group of colleagues you spend so much time with, you know what’s expected of you and you’ve done all the training, you just bond so well - I really enjoyed it.’ Following his tour Andrew experienced his first taste of long distance cycling in an event organised by the Coldstream Guards, chalking up the fastest time of all the participants, before embarking on a six week deployment in Kenya. It was after this that Andrew’s life took a completely unexpected turn. On exercises in the Brecon Beacons,

he suffered a severe non-freezing cold injury. Having lost the feeling in both his feet, he was later medically discharged from the Army. ‘I was 18 when I joined the Army and ready to do my full 22 years. I wanted to do it all, become a Sergeant Major then commission as an officer. Leaving was a massive blow, it was a very difficult time, not only for me but also for my wife. I had worked so hard to keep my medical record clean. To have this happen was a big shock.’ Andrew also began to lose co-ordination and developed difficulties walking. ‘I spent ten months indoors. I went from running a mile and half in eight minutes to sitting on the sofa watching Jeremy Kyle! I wasn’t the best person to be around, but I was getting married at the end of the year and I realised I had to buck my ideas up and step up to the plate.’

wounded servicemen, championed enthusiastically by Prince Harry, came when Andrew was completing core recovery events at the Help for Heroes centre at Tedworth House. On his return to Devon he contacted Nigel Hale-Hunter of BPM Coaching, who agreed to coach Andrew for the cycling events. He joined Okehampton Cycling Club, meeting new friends while welcoming the social and sporting opportunities, plus the competitive life he craved. Andrew trained hard - very hard - for a year and was rewarded with a coveted place in the GB Invictus team which travelled to the games in Canada in September. However, just days before he was due to head out to the games he took a 45mph downhill tumble and he arrived in Canada with severe gravel rash and his brand new GB kit rather shredded!

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‘It was such an experience, it was like being on top of the world, absolutely mind-blowing! They were ten, wonderful days.’ Andrew is now setting his sights on national cycling racing honours. Jane Honey

But the miles and miles of training, the strict diet to get his body fat down to just over 7%, paid off. He took silver in the

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Andrew started riding a static bike indoors and the improvements to his health were dramatic. ‘Would I say cycling saved my life? Probably not, but I certainly don’t think I would have got married!’ The idea of competing in the Invictus Games, the Olympic-style event for

men’s 5K time trial and followed that with gold in the IRB Criterium.

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SCHOOL NEWS EDUCATION

SCHOOL EDUCATION NEWS

Bridestowe Primary A small school that’s proud of its community links celebrates a great start to 2018... At Bridestowe Primary School we are passionate about providing children with the very best education in a safe, happy and welcoming learning environment. Our aim is to develop confident learners with the skills required for secondary school success and the challenges life can bring. We currently have 87 children on roll, taught across three spacious classrooms. We have three teachers and seven support staff who work in collaboration with parents, carers and the wider community. Bridestowe is one of six primary schools along with Okehampton College, to comprise the Dartmoor Federation, which is currently in the final stages of converting to the Multi Academy Trust status. By working together with the other schools in the Federation, the children at Bridestowe are able to enjoy being part of a small village school as well as having the benefits of being part of a larger organisation. British values and beliefs are embedded in our children’s learning and our ethos is built around people that are genuinely committed to these values and are lived out in the everyday life of our community. We endeavour to deliver these aims and values in all of our lessons, guiding our young children throughout their time with us in a distinct rural setting. Although we are a small village primary school, we are fortunate to have fantastic grounds, which are continually being developed for the well-being of the pupils. The Friends of Bridestowe School (FoBS) – our parent run committee, are incredibly supportive and work closely with the school to help provide us with resources for exciting projects. Recently they have shown their commitment, dedication and perseverance by raising over £16,000 to replace the outdoor play equipment. We

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are delighted to say that the work on extending our playground has started and the children will be able to take full advantage of it this year. We are incredibly proud of our parent and community partnerships created at Bridestowe Primary School and the commitment they share with us to ensure that the children have the best start in education. We have parents that volunteer to run lunch time and after school clubs, the Women’s Institute provide weekly reading sessions. Parents also support with driving children to and from off-site venues for sporting events. This network of people enables us to provide a vast array of activities and opportunities for the children. For example, last year we were proud to be presented with the Silver Award for PE and School Sport from the School Games Association. There are very strict criteria to meet in order to win this award and we were pleased to have the confirmation that we are providing excellent opportunities for the children’s physical development. As we have such high aspirations at this school, we are already working on how we can develop PE and school sports further and achieve a gold award this year! This academic year has seen a growth in providing the children with a wider range of enrichment activities. We believe that this has truly inspired and

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fully engaged them in their learning, encouraging them to have higher expectations and aspirations for their future selves. Children learn most effectively through direct experience and we offer opportunities for children of all ages to enhance their skills by bringing the curriculum alive and making their learning more meaningful. We have many well-chosen trips, visitors and topic related days that support the curriculum being taught in school. Children’s voices are also important to us at Bridestowe and there is a very active School Council. We consider it to be important that children begin to learn about democracy from this early age. Every year our council grows in strength, learning from its predecessors. This term alone the children have organised a ‘Dress as a Hero Day’, a ‘MacMillan Cancer afternoon’, ‘Children in Need Day’ and sold Remembrance merchandise to fundraise for the charities that they wanted to support. After a child-led meeting, they suggested that the school organised an art day. As a result, the teachers discussed how to go about this and the whole school went on a trip to RHS Rosemoor where the children created natural sculptures. Amy Scrivenor Headteacher Bridestowe Primary School

We are looking forward to working even more collaboratively with other staff and children in the learning community as we convert into the Multi Academy Trust as this will help us to continue to provide a wide range of exciting opportunities for our pupils. Everyone involved in the school: pupils, parents, staff and wider community give so generously and this is the key to our success. We are a friendly and fully inclusive school, so if you would like any further information or a tour, please contact Amy Lammas, Head of School on 01837 861361.

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CHARITY FOCUS

‘Walking is the nearest activity to the perfect exercise’ — Prof Jerry Morris.

A year ago the funding to OCRA, who oversaw our group, was withdrawn, but we felt very strongly that as walk leaders, we wanted the group to carry on, as it had helped so many people. We formed ourselves into a charity and elected officers, who with the backing of a committee have carried on the group for the last year, very successfully.

walking and my playing badminton and I felt very low. I saw the Walk and Talk group advertised, so I went along and it changed my life quite positively. Myself and my husband would walk at a sensible speed and when you are with a group of chatty people, your mind is not questioning whether you will be able to climb a hill or not. I became more positive in my outlook on life and made new friends. I found out a year later that I was also suffering from bronchiectasis. I was given a long-term dose of antibiotics and my lung capacity improved by 30%. After my health improved I decided to become a walk leader and took my turn in leading the Tuesday walks, as I wanted to give other people the chance I was given by joining Walk and Talk.

Walking while talking - a great combination!

But - and there is always a but - we need your help and support. If you would like to join our walks, then just come along or get in touch with me. If you would like to be a leader - we ALWAYS want walk leaders - then you can ring me on 01837 83487 or you can e-mail me on roywcunnington@gmail. com. If you want to know more about Walking for Health then log on to www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

Pat Cunnington of Okehampton Walk and Talk tells of the joy of sociable exercise…. Okehampton Walk and Talk Group is part of England’s largest network of health walk schemes, Walking for Health, which is funded by MacMillan and The Ramblers. Okehampton Walk and Talk is helping people across the town and surrounding areas to lead a more active lifestyle. Group walks are led by friendly, specially trained volunteers who are on hand to provide encouragement and support and make sure no one gets left behind! We have a front leader and a back leader for every walk, and they are all volunteers.

Why should you walk? If you have problems with your health, or if you’ve had them in the past, it can be hard to stay active, but walking could make all the difference. It’s a low impact exercise, so it’s easy for you to get involved, even if you’re not feeling your best. In fact, walking could help you feel great again! Walking has been shown to help with heart disease, diabetes, asthma, dementia, depression and many more illnesses. All you need is a sturdy pair of shoes or boots and clothes that are suitable for the weather conditions - yes, we walk in all weathers! I have been walking with the group for six years and I have only known two walks that have been cancelled. The history of our group is interesting. In 2004 the group was started in the autumn with six walkers, one walk leader and four different walks and these walks were funded by South 22

West Lakes. The group quickly grew to double figures and members came from Okehampton, Lewdown, Hatherleigh and Halwell Junction. New leaders came forward and training was introduced; with new leaders, new walks were also formed. With increasing publicity and word of mouth, Sunday walks were introduced always followed by a Devon Cream Tea! Over the past 13 years Walk and Talk in Okehampton has helped innumerable people find companionship, friendship, laughter and something to look forward to each week. Now in 2017 we have three levels of walk. Level 1 walk is for about 20 minutes on flat ground, level 2 walks are around 40 minutes and level 3 walks last about 90 minutes, some of them are on uneven ground. We still run our Sunday walks which are often taken a bit further afield and are a little more challenging, but still last about 90 minutes and still followed by a cream tea! Our groups cater for all levels and we walk at a sensible pace - no running! We meet opposite the Post Office and our group is FREE. Tuesday walks meet at 10.30am and Wednesday walks meet at 10am. After we have walked and talked, we talk again over a cup of coffee or tea. I joined the group when my health was very poor. I had suffered from asthma for most of my life but it did not hinder my sports until the symptoms changed and coughing all day became part of my life. At this time it was affecting my

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Self care over the winter months... Advice from Dr Emma Chapman Okehampton Medical Centre Wrap up warm this winter

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The winter months are linked to an increase in accidents and illness. It is important to know how to stay warm during the coming winter months. The cold can be associated with various illnesses including common colds, heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and the flu. All of these can have particular impact on older people, but you can take steps to stay healthy this winter. In addition, free flu vaccinations are available for those over the age of 65 and for those who have certain long term conditions.

To help ease your symptoms:

Wear lots of layers

Use special rehydration drinks made from sachets bought from pharmacies if you have signs of dehydration.

Wrap up in several thin layers comprised of cotton, wool and fleecy fibres that help maintain body heat, including scarves, hats and gloves. Wearing the correct shoes is also important. Wearing the correct footwear with the correct grip will reduce your risk of falling. Check the weather forecast each day so you can prepare and dress appropriately.

Stay active and eat well

•

• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration

•

Take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains.

Get plenty of rest.

Take anti-vomiting medication and/or anti-diarrhoeal medication if you need to Gastroenteritis can spread very easily, so you should wash your hands regularly while you’re ill and stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared, to reduce the risk of passing it on.

Exercising regularly can make you feel good and builds selfesteem as well as boosting your body’s self defence system to fight against illnesses. Food is an essential source of energy that helps to keep your body warm. It is important to regularly have hot meals and hot drinks during the day, as this will help raise the body’s temperature.

Get medical advice if: •

you have symptoms of severe dehydration, such as persistent dizziness, only passing small amounts of urine or no urine at all, or if you’re losing consciousness

•

you have bloody diarrhoea

Sickness & Diarrhoea

•

Gastroenteritis is a common condition that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It can be unpleasant, but usually clears up by itself within a week. Try to avoid going to your GP, as gastroenteritis can spread to others very easily.

you’re vomiting constantly and are unable to keep down any fluids

•

you have a fever over 38C (100.4F)

•

Symptoms of gastroenteritis: The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are sudden, watery diarrhoea, feeling sick, vomiting, which can be projectile or a mild fever.

your symptoms haven’t started to improve after a few days

•

in the last few weeks you’ve returned from a part of the world with poor sanitation

•

you have a serious underlying condition, such as kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease or a weak immune system and have diarrhoea and vomiting

What to do if you have gastroenteritis: If you experience sudden diarrhoea and vomiting, the best thing to do is stay at home until you’re feeling better. There’s not always a specific treatment, so you have to let the illness run its course.

Dr Emma Chapman 25

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Fiona Sundari Law, local teacher and owner of Viveka Gardens Yoga Farm, gives the low down on this ancient form of exercise.

The fundamental difference is that yoga emphasises a long, slow stretch and contraction of muscles. Gym workout, for instance, favours repeated, short powerful movements. This produces lactic acid in the muscle fibres that cause fatigue and muscle stiffness. In yoga, rest periods with breathing – savasana, lying down – means oxygen debt is repaid systematically and lactic acid is dispersed.

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The unique benefits of yoga

Often yoga is seen as just one more exercise option, either for very slim young women or alternatively a gentle option for people lacking health and mobility. In fact, yoga offers a unique work out for the whole system and is for everyone. So how does yoga compare to other forms of fitness and exercise and what are its unique benefits?

n Sitting

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A lot of sport and fitness regimes emphasise the development of short, powerful muscles. This means tighter hamstrings, tighter hips and a less flexible back. Yoga lengthens and strengthens skeletal muscle. With freer hips and legs, the back can move more easily. A spine that moves easily promotes postural freedom that allows organs, nerves, ligaments and tendons to sit and move with ease. This points to the subtle benefit of yoga, which is an unblocking of energy and flow between the body systems. In a session the body is folded and stretched in all directions: forwards, backwards, twisting and sideways. The internal organs receive a full massage leading to improved digestion and general flow of blood to tissue. Glands (eg adrenal) and ductless hormonal tissues (eg the cells that produce glycogen and insulin deep in the liver) receive a massage, bringing fresh blood and taking away toxins, promoting optimal function. Yoga really reaches the parts other exercise cannot reach! Adrenaline is a big factor in team sports, running and most forms of physical

exercise. Adrenaline stimulates the mind. Yoga exercise is designed to develop concentration and calm. Many physical workouts are done to stimulating music. The feel-good factor after a demanding workout can be due to an endorphin high, evolution’s way of giving us stamina in extreme circumstances, not necessarily a mechanism to be exploited daily. The postyoga glow is due to deep relaxation facilitating connection within. Often people come to yoga as other forms of exercise have taken a toll on their body – the high impacts of running, rowing, professional dancing, martial arts, cycling and contact sports I often saw when teaching in London. While yoga can’t necessarily repair a cruciate ligament, for example, yoga allows the body to heal itself in savasana and final relaxation. Rest and repair will be deep in the tissues too. Often people take up running or gym, inspired to be healthy but also out of fear of getting old. Yoga keeps you young in a holistic way. Yoga encourages you to listen to the body. Physical exercise is done with the eyes open. The eyes draw the mind’s energy out. But yoga can be done with the eyes closed, promoting an inward focus and a relaxation for the nervous system. Yoga is practised in a mindful way, making observations and experimenting. Yoga offers weight-bearing exercise, using one’s own weight without having to rely on equipment. This is excellent to develop stronger bones and resilience to osteoporosis. In fact, a major benefit of yoga is that it requires no equipment. A sticky mat is helpful, but there is no need to spend money on special shoes, expensive equipment or to drive anywhere. You can do it simply, on your own or in a group. And very lastly, there is a thing called yoga hair! It always looks good after you’ve been practising as prana, the vital force, goes to the tips of the hair too. And no need to shower – just rub in any sweat as it too is full of prana. Fiona Sundari Law runs classes, workshops and retreats at her retreat, Viveka Gardens Yoga Farm near Winkleigh, as well as classes in Okehampton, South Tawton and Chagford.

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GARDENING

It might be winter - but there’s still work to do outdoors! Unfreeze the garden Bird baths can become frozen solid in winter. The ice will usually dislodge as one mass. Refilling with water will ensure birds get a much needed drink and wash. Continue feeding birds to supplement their food as the ground will be hard and foraging becomes difficult - birds need to maintain fat reserves in winter. Ponds of solid ice can be cracked where ice is thin and there are no fish. Otherwise pour hot water gently on the surface to melt holes. A good tip is to float a small plastic ball on the surface which creates an area where air can enter and leave the

water in the pond, keeping it oxygenated and preserving life stock. It also prevents expanding ice cracking the concrete or plastic liner. When the ice freezes, remove the ball, let the air get to the pond, then put it back before the hole freezes over again. With small water features, pumps and filters should be removed along with solar powered units. Safely store in order to protect them from being damaged in freezing conditions.

keep away unwanted odours. Keeping tops firmly in place eliminates light, which algae needs to thrive.

Clean pots and the greenhouse ready for spring

Earthworms are more active during wetter periods and their casts (excrement) can be unsightly in lawns, as well as allowing mosses and lawn weeds to become established if unchecked. Use a wire rake, besom or stiff broom to break up and disperse the casts, but only attempt this when the casts are dry. A deterrent is to use a sulphur-based product that lowers the soil PH, as earthworms dislike acidic soil, but this will not kill those beneficial worms.

Cleaning plastic or glass greenhouses of accumulated dirt, grime, algae and moss with disinfectant or detergent will ensure a more hygienic environment for growing. It will let in more light needed by plants and control pests and diseases. Also clean guttering, water butts, polytunnels and garden frames. Water butts need particular attention, as standing water can be green with algae and moss that can harbour water-borne microscopic fungus root rots - such as Phytophthora, that causes plant foliage to wilt. Draining water and scrubbing inside will remove the algae. A non-toxic water butt freshener treatment can be added when refilling to control algae and

ALL ASPECTS OF LANDSCAPING AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Decking & Fencing • Dry Stone Walling • Patios & Pathways • Timber Structures • Groundworks

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Pots and seed trays should be inspected, discarding broken or damaged ones and thoroughly cleaned to remove risk of soilcontaminated diseases.

Check lawns for wormcast

Sowing and planting out Bedding plants, antirrhinum, begonia, geranium, gloxinia, lobelia, sweet pea and verbena can be sown in January. Perennial plants such as anemone, auricula, aquilegia, hollyhock and kniphofia can also be sown. Sweet peas raised from autumn sowings can be encouraged to form side

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shoots by pinching out the seedling tips. In February lily and allium bulbs and flowering shrubs Daphne, witch hazel and Chimonanthus praecox can be planted outdoors. Plants that have become too large can be safely moved in February provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Spring is a good time to plant out bamboo, ferns, hostas and agapanthus as the soil will start warming up and becomes more friable and workable.

Overwintered plants Inspect stored tubers and corms such as dahlia, begonia, geraniums, gladioli and canna for rots and drying out. Discard any showing these signs to prevent it spreading. Any individual tubers infected can be cut from the main crown of the plant and the cut area dusted with flowers of sulphur (brimstone). Tubers and corms should have been stored in a dry cool place in a tray of compost or vermiculite.

Pruning and deadheading in February Prune summer to late autumn clematis that bloom on the current year’s growth. Cut back to a pair of buds within 20cm above ground level removing all previous growth. This is the ideal time before active growth resumes. Ornamental grasses can be clipped, the deciduous grasses sheared to just above ground level and evergreen grasses tidied, removing unsightly leaf blades. Prune winter flowering shrubs jasmine, mahonia and Viburnum x bodnantense and late summer flowering buddleia after flowering to encourage new growth. Trim winter flowering heathers otherwise they can become leggy. Deadhead winter pansies and violas to stop seeds setting and flowers fading. Tim Penrose Bowdens

FARMING DIARY

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Stuart Luxton explains the importance of good animal nutrition

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Happy New Year everyone. I hope you all had a great holiday season, although it probably seems like a long time ago. The days will be lengthening now and some better weather should be just around the corner. In some ways there feels like a lull in the workload on the farm but it’s just part of the natural yearly cycle. It is a time of year when there aren’t as many large jobs, as the fields are too wet for us to be travelling with heavy machinery, but there is a daily routine which can’t be avoided. It is also too wet for us to be keeping cattle in the fields as they will make too much mess and damage the grazing for next season. As a result, all the cattle are still safe and sound in the sheds.

This is the time of year when all the hard summer work pays off. All the stocks of hay, silage, straw and grain are being used to care for the animals. The lads on the farm need to feed the animals every day and provide them with fresh straw, this in itself provides us with enough to do, but it’s also important to note that it’s not quite as simple as it sounds.

The nutrition is meticulously planned so that each group of animals receives the correct food. Heavily pregnant ewes carrying multiple lambs need plenty of high quality feed, so the lambs inside them grow big and strong, but peculiarly cows, which normally carry one calf, have less high quality food, so that the calves don’t get too big. If they do get overfed, we can encounter problems at calving. Cattle that are growing fast need plenty of protein and cattle that are being prepared for market need plenty of energy. If the animals are well cared for it should help the next season go more smoothly. We also regularly weigh the stock to ensure that the feed we are providing is having the desired effect on the animals concerned. It’s also a good time of year to catch up on animal health tasks such as vaccinations and foot trimming. Hopefully this will lead to all the animals being in the pink when spring puts in an appearance and the new babies start to arrive. As well as the animals, we try to prepare the fields for next year. A number of soil samples will be taken. We will look at the acidity and the nutrient levels of the fields, identify problems and plan how we improvements can be made.

Most people when they think of farmers usually think of cows and tractors not many would think of a computer. I usually get behind with my record keeping and paperwork during the summer months, it’s these long dark nights when I get to catch up on these tasks. Pedigree registrations, cattle weights, medicine records and stock takes are all part of modern farming. I usually try to do a full inventory of all the cattle passports and pedigrees to ensure nothing is missing or duplicated. I would love to thank all my great staff and family for all their hard work over Christmas. I would also like to thank everyone who shopped with us over the festive season and hope that you all enjoyed your Christmas dinner. We really love to hear all the lovely comments when we get back to work. It’s about now that we will be starting our expansion - it will be a very exciting time for us all, I personally can’t wait for the ideas to leap off the paper into reality. I really hope that all the planning pays off. Stuart Luxton

FEATURE

Roadford Lake - more than just a reservoir! Lots to see and masses to do, both on and off the water Just five minutes off the A30, between Launceston and Okehampton, you will find the spectacular Roadford Lake. Surrounded by countryside and nestled amongst the beautiful surroundings of the Wolf Valley with the dramatic tors of Dartmoor as its backdrop, it’s hard to believe that the site of Roadford once housed a number of buildings and farms before it was selected as a site for a reservoir in July 1975. After a long process of public consultations and following the drought of 1976, improvements to the roads around the site began in January 1985. Work on the dam commencing in early 1987 and took two years to complete.

largest inland waters in the South West. The water supplies North Devon and is also released into the River Tamar system which is treated and then supplied to Plymouth and parts of South West Devon. Want to learn more? Each year South West Water invites members of the public to find out what happens behind the scenes at Roadford. After walking under the dam visitors scale the 170 steps to the top of the valve tower. The steep climb is not for the faint-hearted but offers a unique opportunity to view this spectacular lake. The dam tours, which are free to attend, take place annually at Roadford’s Open Day, which next year will be taking place on Sunday, 27 May, and in September as part of the country-wide Heritage Open Days.

Completed in 1989, Roadford holds an astonishing 8,140 million gallons of water when full - that’s equivalent to one hundred and forty-five billion, eight hundred and twenty-two million, nine hundred and seventy-two thousand, nine hundred and one (145, 822,972,901) cups of tea!

South West Lakes Trust

The reservoir has a surface of more than 730 acres (1.9 square miles) and is more than 130 feet deep, making it one of the

Since 2000, regional charity South West Lakes Trust has managed all of South West Water’s reservoirs for public

at Lakeside, Roadford Lake

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In the past 17 years the Trust has been awarded nearly £12m of grant funding to deliver fantastic projects across the whole region, benefitting people of all ages and abilities; local communities and the natural and built heritage.

Projects at Roadford have included:

With views over the lake it’s the perfect place to enjoy a hearty roast with friends and family. 12.30pm - 2.00pm

enjoyment, environmental safeguarding and recreational pursuits. Popular beauty spots looked after by the Trust also include Burrator Reservoir in Devon, Siblyback, Stithians and Tamar Lakes in Cornwall and Wimbleball Lake on Exmoor.

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The Lakeside Café and Function Suite which opened to the public in July 2005 Fantastic new facilities at the Activity Centre in July 2011 which included the 30ft high ropes system, an indoor climbing wall and an archery range. Two new cycle trails in 2012 A new footpath in 2017, funded by South West Water, which connects the two sides of the lake

Play and explore South West Lakes Trust are passionate about people from all walks of life being able to benefit from the wonderful countryside around their lakes and, with so much on offer at Roadford, there really is something for everyone. From kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and sailing, to archery, climbing, fishing, walking and cycling – Roadford offers an excellent day out.

FEATURE

There’s plenty of fun and free things to do. Discover the cob shelter, spot a range of wildlife from the bird hides, whizz through the off-road cycle trails or simply relax and enjoy the spectacular views. Incidentally, while enjoying those lake views, you may notice some ripples on the surface of the water. While some believe that a monster may be lurking in the murky depths of the lake, these ripples are actually produced by the air pipe that aerates the water.

A nature lover’s paradise With a range of natural habitats on its shores, from culm grasslands, woodlands, old pastures and orchards, Roadford is a nature lover’s paradise. Flora and fauna can be found in abundance including teal, Canada geese, birds of prey, badgers, bats, red and roe deer and a healthy population of the endangered hazel dormouse. Evidence suggests that dormice were present at Roadford pre-1989, before the valley was flooded and South West Lakes Trust carries out bi-annual surveys which tie in with the national dormouse monitoring programme, which helps assess the state of the UK population. The dormouse box checks take place in May and September each year and members of the public are welcome to join. Something for everyone So, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie who loves to get out on the water, a keen birdwatcher who is searching for that perfect photo opportunity, a family looking for somewhere to keep the kids entertained or someone who just loves to walk in gorgeous countryside, Roadford has it all. For more information visit www.swlakestrust.org.uk

WHAT’S ON

REGULARS

Okehampton EX20 1AR 01837 52805 okehampton.library@librariesunlimited. org.uk www.devonlibraries.org.uk

FOURTH THURSDAY OF THE MONTH PARKINSON’S SUPPORT Okehampton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the fourth Thursday of the month between 2pm and 4pm at Castle Ham Lodge, Okehampton. Tea, biscuits and mutual support and comfort are on offer — newcomers welcome. For more information call 01837 55813.

EVERY WEDNESDAY CITY OF PLYMOUTH CREDIT UNION OFFICE CPCU has taken over the operation of Plough and Share Credit Union, which operated in Okehampton. The Service Point is open between 11am and 1pm in the Princetown Community Centre, Tavistock Road, Princetown, PL20 6QE every Wednesday. Savers can obtain loans at 2% or less. Children can save too. All savers are covered by a free life insurance. Just call in to find out more information, or ring 01752 201329.

SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH MACULAR SUPPORT Okehampton Macular Support Group meetings are held from 10am to noon at the Ockment Centre, North Street, Okehampton. OKEHAMPTON LIBRARY Tuesdays, 10am to 10.30am Bounce & Rhyme for over 1 year olds; 11am to 11.30am for under one year olds. Free, no booking necessary; 1st Tuesday of the month, 4pm until 5pm, Book Club for ages seven to eleven, free, no booking necessary; Wednesdays 10am until 10.45am, Storytime & Duplo Builders for under fives, free, no booking necessary; Saturdays 10.30am until 11.30am Lego Builders for ages 5+ — free, no booking necessary. Book Track for ages 6+ during library opening hours free, ask staff for further details. Children under 8 must be accompanied to all events by a responsible adult. Okehampton Library, 4 North Street,

SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH Okehampton Chamber of Trade networking breakfast at The Dovecote in Red Lion Yard, Okehampton. Breakfast at 7.30am with a guest speaker at 8am. Non members welcome.

January 10 JANUARY TAI CHI Classes for health and vitality take place at Fireplace Church Hall in Okehampton on Wednesdays during term time, between 1.15pm and 2.30pm. For more information contact Kate Dixon on 01837 840959 or email: kate@forestchi.co.uk

10 JANUARY OKEHAMPTON PRIMARY PTFA Committee meeting to be held in the Greeat Links Tor building at the school at 7pm. 12 JANUARY LYDFORD TWELFTH NIGHT BALL To be held at the Nicholls Hall, Lydford, with music by the Sky Walkers Band. Tickets cost £10 to include entry and refreshments, with proceeds from the event being donated to Cancer Research UK. 9pm until 1am. Last year’s Twelfth Night Ball raised more than £1,750 for Cancer Research, so all are welcome to come along and support this important cause once more. 13 JANUARY PAUL JONES & DAVE KELLY Back at The Plough, Torrington by popular demand, the founder members of The Blues Band perform a life acoustic set that promises to be a night to remember. Box office 01805624624.

Library between 7pm and 9pm. Tickets cost £5 - bookings should be made by going to http://ow.ly/Q6PH30gMajb Word on Tour is a celebrating of writing talent across the South West - from January until September, the region’s libraries will play host to the finest novelists, nature writers, poets, playwrights, performers and children’s authors.

history of Lewtrenchard Manor with proprietor Sue Murray. Sue gives a truly interesting talk and includes many personal experiences that she and her family have had during their life at Lewtrenchard. Arrival at 10.30am, tour at 11am and lunch at 12.30pm. £30 pp booking essential by calling 01566 783222 or email: info@lewtrenchard.co.uk

17 JANUARY NORDIC WALK Join Denise Horner for a walk from Finch Foundry, leaving at 10am.

26 JANUARY BURNS NIGHT CELEBRATION At The Tors Inn, Belstone. Haggis, Neeps and Tatties available, plus a hosted whisky tasting event with selected whiskies from The Tors’ 55 single malt range. Booking essential on 01837 840689, dinner from 6pm.

17 JANUARY YOUR ANCESTORS’ DIRTY LAUNDRY A talk by Dr Ian Mortimer at 7.30pm in the Union Inn, Moretonhampstead, hosted by Moretonhampstead History Society. Call 01647 441083.

14 JANUARY PLOUGH SUNDAY A service of Holy Communion at St Andrew’s Church in Sampford Courtenay at 9.30am, followed by the blessing of ploughs and seeds in the village square.

20 JANUARY ANTARCTICA TALK Pam Kemp, photographer, diver and explorer takes us on a journey to view the natural history and beauty of this icy continent at 7.30pm in Sampford Courtenay Village Hall. Tickets £6 to include refreshments at the end of the talk are available from the New Inn or by calling 01837 851659..

17 JANUARY WORD ON TOUR Performance poets Jonny Fluffypunk and Elvis McGonagall will be at Okehampton

23 JANUARY HISTORY TOUR Take a step back into the Jacobean and Victorian era and explore the fascinating

27 JANUARY OKEHAMPTON RIVERS IMPROVEMENT GROUP Join the group members for the regular clean up day. Meet at 10am at the recycling centre at Waitrose in Okehampton. 27 JANUARY HEDGELAYING COURSE Tom Hynes of the Devon Hedge Group will teach participants how to lay a hedge, explains why Devon hedges are different from other hedge types and discuss how to improvement wildlife of Devon by the creation of new Devon hedges. the day long course takes place at RHS Rosemoor near Torrington. See www.rhs.org.uk/ gardens/rosemoor for more information.

28 JANUARY HOME MADE SOUP Tea, coffee, cake will be served at Sourton Village Hall between 11.30am and 2.30pm, with home made soup on offer between noon and 1.30pm. Proceeds will go towards village hall funds.

February 1 FEBRUARY OKEHAMPTON CHAMBER OF TRADE AGM Share your opinions, meet other business owners and celebrate being a part of Okehampton’s business community at the annual meeting, to be held at 7.30pm, Fountain Inn, Okehampton. www.everythingokehampton.co.uk 1 FEBRUARY SCULPTURE AND NEEDLEFELTING AT RHS ROSEMOOR Fibre artist Tracey Benton will guide participants through a variety of needle felting techniques during this day long workshop. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/ 3 FEBRUARY SHUFFLEBONES A night of blues, rock and R ’n’ B at Sampford Courtenay Village Hall with this great Exeter-based band. The fun starts at 7.30pm, tickets cost £8 and are available from the New Inn or call 01837 851659. FEBRUARY

OKEHAMPTONS FRIENDLIEST CAFÉ

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WHAT’S ON THAI NIGHT At The Tors Inn, Belstone. Authentic Thai evening meal cooked by the pub’s Thai chef Sue. Three course menu to include home made spring rolls, red and green curry, vegetarian stir-fry or seafood stir-fry, sticky rice followed by pineapple fritters and a selection of ice creams including lychee. Booking essential, 01837 840 689. 10 FEBRUARY BIRD BOX BUILDING At Lydford Gorge. See page 47 for more information. 10 FEBRUARY PANTO TRIP TO HOLSWORTHY Hatherleigh Rotary Club will be staging a senior citizens’ panto trip to Holsworthy, partly funded by the club’s annual charity auction in December. Anyone wishing to go should contact Richard Tidball on 01837 810010 for more information. 10 FEBRUARY RICHARD DIGANCE The Not Bad for His Age Tour 2018 comes to The Plough, Torrington. Richard does what he does best, telling stories, playing the guitar and singing songs. Box office 01805 624624. 11 FEBRUARY WILD TRIBE Bushcraft activities at Castle Drogo for families with children aged five to 12. See page 46 for more information. 13 FEBRUARY - 17 FEBRUARY THE WIZARD OF OZ

Moretonhampstead Variety Group presents its annual pantomime at Moretonhampstead Parish Hall at 7.30pm nightly, plus a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday, February 17. Ticket prices to be confirmed - for details see the group’s Facebook page. 14 FEBRUARY THE ELGIN MARBLES This lecture by Steve Kershaw at The Charter Hall, Okehampton will explore the aesthetics, the back-story, and the heated debates surrounding these controversial works of ancient Greek art. 10am for a 10.30am start. The lecture is hosted by the Arts Society Dartmoor - for more information email cynthia.smollett@gmail. com. 14-17 FEBRUARY HAPPY EVER AFTER A wonderful performance comprised of a mix of traditional pantos at the Jubilee Hall, Chagford. 17 FEBRUARY APPLE PRUNING WORKSHOP At Lydford Gorge. See page 47 for more information. 17 FEBRUARY MITCH BENN - LIVE! See the winner of BBC 2’s Celebrity Mastermind at The Plough,Torrington - ‘the country’s leading musical satirist’ and a regular on Radio 4’s The Now Show’. Box office 01805 624624. 18 FEBRUARY

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SNOWDROP SUNDAY Open Garden Day at Andrew’s Corner, Skaigh Lane, Belstone, EX20 1RD in aid of Children’s Hospice South West. The gardens will be open between 11am and 4pm. Snowdrops for sale. Refreshments will be available all day. Further information on www.andrewscorner. garden 21 FEBRUARY ROTARY CLUB PRIMARY SCHOOL QUIZ FINAL To be held in the Octagon, Okehampton College. See What’s On Extra for more information. 21 FEBRUARY FORCED INTO EXILE - THREE DEVON ESTATES A talk by Jeremy Pearson, hosted by Moretonhampstead History Society, at 7.30pm in the Union Inn, Moretonhampstead. Call 01647 441083. 23 FEBRUARY QUIZ NIGHT Exercise the grey matter at this quiz night to raise funds for Okehampton Primary School PTFA. The quiz starts at 7pm in The Dovecote Tea Rooms in Red Lion Yard, Okehampton. £10 for teams of four. 23 FEBRUARY PAUL YOUNG AND LOS PACAMINOS This is a Tequila-fuelled Tex Mex party night, as The Plough, Torrington becomes the perfect cantina setting for a great

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

Welcome to... Hello, Here we are at the start of 2018 and wondering where all the months have gone; working ahead on the scheduling is one sure way of seeing the months galloping ahead! We are well into the 2018 programming with lots of new bands and regulars being booked in, plus we are working on an Early Bird ticketing system to boost pre sales of tickets which not only helps us but helps you too - you save money! Once again we must say a huge thank you to all our customers both regular and new faces for making it all worthwhile and ensuring the reputation of The Wharf as a community theatre venue and more importantly a FRIENDLY venue, continues to grow. Our social media has rocketed and we now have a twitter account where you can follow us @tavistockwharf - please stay in touch with us also on Facebook so that any last minute changes (as there inevitably will be from time to time) won’t be missed.

Box Office: 01822 611166 Admin Office 01822 613928

MUSIC........................ Saturday 13th January Electronix

Sunday 14th January The Beach Boys Story

Friday 19th January Voodoo Room

Electronix 80s Synth Pop Covers Band specialise in all the 80s Synth Pop classics by the likes of OMD and Human League and more

Along with a superb musical performance by Beach Boyz Tribute Band, lead vocalist Tommy Read will lead you through the history of America’s biggest pop ban

Paying tribute to Jimi Hendrix & Cream - Voodoo Room are a stunning “Power Trio”, this is a truly stunning show.

Saturday 27th January Stone Faced Wellers

Saturday 10th February Women in Rock

Sunday 11th February Sarah McQaid

A five piece Mod Band presenting sounds of The Small Faces, Paul Weller, The Style Council and The Jam

The UK’s only live show dedicated to the World’s greatest female music legends like Joan Jet, Stevie Nicks, Patti Smith, Tina Turner and more

A captivating performer, she seduces her audience with cheeky banter and stories from the road, as well as with stunning musicianship.

GALLERy......................

A trio of artists exhibit at the gallery

Art enthusiasts will be somewhat spoilt for choice this New Year as a trio of local artists take over the gallery at The Wharf to show their art. Tavistock resident Jacey Mansell exhibits her experimental digital images for the first time. Exploring the themes of dance, landscape and emotions, her works exploit the creative posibilities of the computer. Muriel Martin is 91 and this is Muriel’s first exhibition! Her style is easy on the eye, exploring traditional scenes and images in a figurative style. And then Mark Bone, a retired bookshop owner who hails from Gunnislake. His work

is meticulous. Painting in watercolours and gouache, he interprets local landscapes in his thoughtful style. His abstracts explore the possibilities of illusion and perspective.

Online booking available for all music events at...

FACEBOOK.COM/ TAVISTOCKWHARF For full details and how to book events visit our website: www.tavistockwharf.com

Tavistock Wharf Box Office 01822 611166

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

March

APRIL

January & February

23 FEBRUARY - 10 MARCH THE THRILL OF LOVE The latest production by The Tavonians tours West Devon. See Music and Art for more information.

5 - 11 MARCH NATIONAL PIE WEEK! A week to celebrate the great British pie check out your local pubs and restaurants to see where you can enjoy the best culinary creations.

24 FEBRUARY TINWORKING COMMUNITY DAY Explore the rich legacy of tin and copper mining in the Belstone area. See What’s On Extra for more information.

9 & 10 MARCH, 16 & 17 MARCH MED THEATRE Med Theatre’s community play tours venues around Dartmoor. See Music and Arts for more information.

Dartmoor’s Daughter was borne out of a love for the moor; an interest in helping people to create healthy minds and bodies; and an ancestral lineage here that goes back many generations. After a 20 year corporate career in such far-flung places as Hong Kong, Australia, and New York, Emma Cunis returned to Devon and reignited her passion for walking through wild, ancient, and beautiful landscapes by offering walks that promise you can ‘Explore. Learn. Enjoy’.

24 FEBRUARY OKEHAMPTON RIVERS IMPROVEMENT GROUP Join the group members for the regular clean up day. Meet at 10am at the recycling centre at Waitrose in Okehampton.

17 & 18 MARCH NON-VIOLENT COMMUNICATION A weekend training course being held in Okehampton. see What’s On Extra for more information.

21 APRIL - 7 MAY TAVISTOCK MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL The annual event again features concerts and events from a wide range of musical genres given by internationally known, amateur and young musicians, lectures, exhibitions and art and literary workshops, theatrical performances and an arts market in Bedford Square, under the presidency of local, international prize winning composer, Andrew Wilson. Further details will be published online from early February at www. tavistockmusic.co.uk

night’s rocking with the cactus sharp, tequila filled, stetson wearing, magnificent 6, Los Pacaminos! Box office 01805 624624.

Supporting the arts and sport in and around Okehampton Available for private hire: parties, weddings & functions Café and Licensed Bar Great stopping off point for cyclists and walkers Talk to us about your catering requirements

Call: 01837 318010

email: pavilion@ocrasport.org.uk Okehampton College•Mill Road Okehampton•EX20 1GE 38

20 - 24 MARCH SPAMALOT Plymouth Gilbert and Sullivan presents the musical version of Monty Python’s Spamalot at the Devonport Playhouse, Plymouth, evenings at 7.30pm, Saturday matinée at 2.30pm. Box office 01752 842197.

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

GOOD ADVICE IS PRICELESS

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

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Nourishing New Year walks and experiences on Dartmoor

Her maternal family has lived on or near and loved Dartmoor for generations. And her ‘Granny Val’ introduced her first husband Eric Hemery to Dartmoor in the 1950s where he set up and offered guided walks and pony treks then wrote a series of well-regarded books including ‘High Dartmoor’, described as ‘the bible for anyone who has the spirit of Dartmoor’. Chagford-based Dartmoor’s Daughter offers walks and natureconnection experiences to transform health, wellbeing and performance. So how about kick starting your New Year’s healthy intentions with a beautiful ‘Walk & Wild Swim Option’ on January 14. Or a gentler option would be ‘Proper Dartmoor Tales & Trails’ on January 13, where Emma is joining forces with 14th generation Dartmoor farmer and local dialect

speaker Tich Scott to show you some of the hidden gems of North East Dartmoor by walking ancient tracks; and be regaled with stories by local people of local history and folklore while being driven between destinations in a luxury or vintage Landrover. Would you like more confidence to navigate off the beaten track using map and compass – Emma is offering a ‘Navigation Training for Beginners’ on January 28. Or perhaps you have a passion for nature and wish you could share it with a special someone - how about joining the February 24 ‘Dartmoor Walk for Single Outdoor-Lovers’. For more information go to www.dartmoorsdaughter.com

12 - 16 February

Okehampton Lantern Project February’s Lantern Procession in Okehampton is gearing up to celebrate the centenary of the donation to the town of Okehampton Castle and so of course, Lady Howard and her ghostly coach will be depicted.

Open workshops organised by Wren Music will run throughout half term week starting on Monday, February 12 and the procession itself will be at dusk on Friday, February 16. Last year more than a hundred lanterns took to the streets, when the theme of the procession was the Dartmoor Ram. Wren is aiming for even more this year and there will be an addition to the procession from the OCRA dancers, adding even more excitement to the procession of lanterns and drummers before the finish, when all lanterns are used to make a fantastic finale image. If any groups want to join in, Wren can offer workshops for your group in the weeks leading up to the project. Please contact Paul Tucker paulo@wrenmusic.co.uk or call 01837 53754. Wren Music is an Okehampton-based arts charity working throughout Devon and the South West, based at Ebenezer Hall in North Street. 39

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

15 January - 2 February

Learn lifesaving skills Whether you are a parent, grandparent, babysitter or friend, would you know what to do when a child starts choking? A series of workshops taking place in the Okehampton area during the next two months will offer family members the chance to learn lifesaving skills. Joe Rice is a first aid trainer living in Okehampton. As well as providing the full range of nationally regulated qualifications, Joe’s aim is to make first aid skills available to everyone.

January, February and March

Training days with the Hill Farm Project The dark days of winter are often considered a time to batten down the hatches, light the fire and hibernate until spring! However despite the temptation there is much to be gained by embracing new experiences associated with the great outdoors. The Dartmoor Hill Farm Project (HFP) provides a year round training programme for farmers and local residents involved in managing Dartmoor’s special landscape. Supported by the Prince’s Countryside Fund, the Duchy of Cornwall and the Dartmoor National Park Authority, the HFP is involved in a range of initiatives to support upland farming. In addition to core agricultural training the project is working with the Heritage Lottery-funded Moor than Meets the Eye Landscape Partnership Scheme to develop a new programme of heritage skills. This winter’s activities include traditional boundary management with a number of courses focussing on hedge laying and dry stone walling. Devon banks are a key element of the Dartmoor landscape and a series of two day courses will be hosted on farms associated with the HFP. This training is suitable for beginners and is delivered by experienced practitioner’s working with small groups of trainees. The emphasis is hands on experience but the courses also provide an overview of the boundaries looking at both their heritage and biodiversity value. Sandra Dodd of the HFP said: ‘This winter we are delivering a new training offer which includes some heritage skills. As well as boundary management we are planning some Dartmoor specific courses including bee keeping which will run from the spring.’ 40

Winter is also a good time to brush up on essential skills and to plan ahead for new projects in the spring. The HFP are working with the Federation of Devon Young Farmers Clubs to run a farm administration course with Julie Tucker MIAgSA. This will cover all the essentials for managing a farm business and will run over six weeks commencing in January 2018. To compliment this course there will be opportunities to brush up on digital and social media skills again linked to marketing and business development. Russell Ashford, chairman of the HFP steering group, said: ‘The project is very much farmer-led and we endeavour to meet the training needs of upland farmers on Dartmoor. Farming is a challenging environment in which to make a living and the training programme ensures we are up to speed with regulation and best practice.’ For anyone interested in combining bovine psychology with Valentine’s day then February will see national expert Miriam Parker come to Dartmoor. This event in association with AHDB will provide a unique insight to cattle behaviour with specialist advice on the design of handling facilities. With lunch thrown in it provides the perfect opportunity to combine business with romance! If you are interested in any of these courses or have other training needs then please contact the HFP Office at hfp@ dartmoor.gov.uk or 01822 890913. Diary dates: Hedge Laying: February 5 & 6; Dry Stone Walling: January 15 & 16, February 23 & 24, March 30 & 31 Farm Administration: Wednesdays for six weeks commencing January 10 Cattle Handling Behaviour and Handling Systems with Miriam Parker: February 14.

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This January and February, six community workshops have been set up in Okehampton and surrounding villages. The workshops will cover infant and child choking procedures, calling the emergency services, the recovery position and CPR. Attending these workshops will give you the knowledge and confidence to act in an emergency situation to help someone in need. The workshops cost £10 per person and children are welcome at all sessions. Booking is essential as spaces are limited. Please contact Joe at www.joericefirstaid.com and visit the community awareness page, find him on Facebook, email joericefirstaid@gmail.com or phone 07531 424014.

The workshops will take place as follows: 15 January Nicholls Hall, Lydford EX20 4BH 9.30am - 11.30am; 19 January Lifton Community Centre, Lifton PL16 0LA 9.30am - 11.30am; 24 January Church House, South Tawton EX20 2LQ 9.30am - 11.30am; 26 January 2018 Coronation Hall, Mary Tavy PL19 9QA 9.30am - 11.30am; 30 January Church Hall, Okehampton EX20 1HN 9.30am - 11.30am; 2 February Church Hall, Okehampton EX20 1HN 7pm - 9pm.

9, 16 & 25 February

Super snowdrops! In the depths of winter it’s always wonderful to see those first stirrings of spring, and there’s an opportunity to do just this at Higher Cherubeer, Dolton, near Winkleigh, this February. In the depths of winter it’s always wonderful to see those first stirrings of spring, and there’s an opportunity to do just this at Higher Cherubeer, Dolton, near Winkleigh, this February. Jo and Tom Hynes are opening their garden gates to the public for the National Garden Scheme, enabling the public to view their national collection of cyclamen, hellebores and more than 300 named snowdrops, plus a great many winter flowering shrubs. This lovely country garden is spread over an acre and a half and includes a gravelled courtyard, raised beds and an alpine

house, lawns, a large herbaceous border, shady woodland beds, a large kitchen garden, greenhouse and colourful collection of basketry willows. The gardens will be open between 2pm and 4pm. Entry costs £4 and home made teas will be available. Visitors are also welcome by prior arrangement between February and October for groups of more than ten. For more information please contact Jo and Tom Hynes on 01805 804265 hynesjo@gmail.com

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

...it’s all about the tast ...it’s all about the taste

delicatessen

[del-i-kuh-tes-uh n] noun a store selling foods already prepared or requiring little preparation for serving such as cooked meats, cheeses and bread.

HAMPERS

Speak to Catherine about bespoke Hampers, which can be collected, delivered locally or posted nationwide.

BLACKS delicatessen

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA WHAT’S ON EXTRA

WHAT’S ON EXTRA

24 February

Tinworking and mining in the Belstone area - a community day

21 February

Rotary Club Primary School Quiz Final The Rotary Club of Okehampton will once again be running its annual series of Primary Schools Quiz events during February. This popular competition has been run by the Rotary Club for many years and encourages teams from all the primary schools in the Okehampton area to try to be crowned winners at the final, taking place at the Octagon Theatre, Okehampton College. At least a dozen schools are generally represented with one or two teams of four students participating - initially split over three heats to decide upon the teams making it through to the final. Questions are set covering a variety of subjects including mathematics, English, history, geography, science and general knowledge. The aim is to reflect the primary curriculum, but with some variations including the use of practical examples

and visual images to make it more fun. This is the main aim of the quiz - to encourage healthy competition whilst trying to make it enjoyable for all concerned. A Rotary spokesman said: ‘It has been interesting to see over past years how spectators are also keen to check if they have the correct answers – but don’t ask a Rotarian because our record has been less than perfect!’

Open to all, this day will explore the rich legacy of tinworking and copper mining in the Belstone area, in a Dartmoor context. Two talks, a walk, exhibitions, bookstalls and afternoon tea will provide excellent stimulation for discovery and discussion. The event, at Belstone Village Hall, will be free of charge but donations will be requested for morning tea and coffee and afternoon tea will be available at £4.50 per head. The community day will run from 10am until 5pm. Programme

Supporters from participating schools are encouraged to attend their individual heats (please check with your school for dates in early February), but also to come along and support the teams that get through to the final. This year it will be held on Wednesday February 21.

10am: Exhibitions, bookstalls etc

For further details check with your school or go to the club website at www.okehamptonrotary.org.uk

11.45am: Chris Walpole will give a talk - ‘Copper Mines and Miners in the Belstone area’.

10.15am: Tom Greeves will give a talk - ‘600 Years of Tinners and Tinworking in the Belstone area AD 1300-1900’. 11.15am: Coffee break, exhibitions, bookstalls etc

12.45pm: Lunch (own arrangements), exhibitions, bookstalls etc 2pm: Walk to Lady Brook (shown on OS maps as Ivy Tor Water) tinworks and tin mill, led by Tom Greeves. Meet on the edge of the village at SX 620935. During the walk, tin artefacts from Belstone’s own blowing mill beside and in the River Taw will be seen and superb tin streamworks, reservoirs and a fascinating early tin stamping mill at Queenie Meads at the head of the Lady Brook. The walk (totalling about 5km/3 miles) is over rough moorland with two steep climbs/descents. There are likely to be some wet areas - warm waterproof clothing and suitable sturdy footwear is essential. 4.15pm: Tea in the village hall (provided by Marion Walpole) @ £4.50 per head. Exhibitions, bookstalls etc. 5pm: Finish. Please indicate your attendance by emailing secretary@dtrg. org.uk – this will be most helpful for catering arrangements.

17 & 18 March

Nonviolent Communication A new way of communicating and resolving conflicts ‘What I want in my life is compassion, a flow between myself and others based on a mutual giving from the heart’Marshall Rosenberg.

Winter Sculpture Exhibition

Imagine connecting with the human spirit in each person in any situation. Imagine interacting with one another in a way that allows everyone’s needs to be equally valued. Imagine creating organisations and environments that honour and respond to your needs.

until 18 February

Combine your visit with a winter walk and perhaps treat yourself to a Winter Warmer Afternoon Tea* RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon, EX38 8PH *Online booking essential rhs.org.uk/rosemoor RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262

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Nonviolent Communication is sometimes referred to as compassionate communication. Its purpose is to strengthen our ability to inspire compassion and to respond compassionately to others and to ourselves. NVC guides us to reframe how we express ourselves and

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

hear others by focusing our consciousness on what we are observing, feeling, needing, and requesting. During NVC training, participants are taught to make careful observations free of evaluation, and to specify behaviours and conditions that are affecting us. We learn to hear our own deeper needs and those of others, and to identify and clearly articulate what we are wanting in a given moment. When we focus on clarifying what is being observed, felt, and needed, rather than on diagnosing and judging, we discover the depth of our own compassion. Through its emphasis on deep listening – to ourselves as well as others – NVC fosters respect, attentiveness and empathy, and engenders a mutual desire to give from the heart. The form is simple, yet powerfully transformative. Two trainers from the Bristol based organisation, Seed of Peace, will lead a weekend level one training course in Okehampton on Saturday March 17th and Sunday March 18th For information and to book a place on the course contact Kate Dixon: 01837 840959, email: forestchi@btinternet.com For more information on Seed of Peace visit www.seedofpeace.org 43

MUSIC & ART

FINALIST AT THE SOUTH WEST WEDDING AWARDS Voted as one of the ‘Best Town Wedding Venues’ in the South West

‘YOUR LOCAL VIBRANT EVENTS VENUE’

Flea Market

Tavistock Town Hall, a perfect, THE SOUTH WEST flexible‘FINALIST setting for yourAT event. Whether you’reWEDDING holding a gala AWARDS’ dinner, aVOTED wedding,AS sales fayre,OF THE ‘BEST TOWN ONE or even an exercise class, WEDDING VENUES’ IN THE SOUTH our facilities and friendly and experienced staff make ourWEST.

A selection of antiques, collectables, vintage items, bric-a-brac and unusual what-nots...

elegant Gothic building at the heart of Tavistock the ideal place for your event.

New Traders Welcome

• Fully Licenced Bar • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Capacity from 2 – 400 people • Full disabled access Call Ross and his team today to • Modern kitchen facilities • Full days hire from £85.00* discuss your needs and reserve

your time and date

*depending on event and room requirements

townhall@tavistock.gov.uk www.tavistock.gov.uk

01822 617232

EVERY THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

Cornish art, music and a puppet show Bratton Clovelly Festival’s 2018 programme has something for everyone. This is Bratton Clovelly Festival’s third year and the previous two years have brought such varied entertainment to this small rural community; the Penzance Youth Orchestra, SemiToned, art exhibitions, jazz and early music and folk. For many of these, such as the Exeter Cathedral Choir and the K’antu Ensemble, it was their first performance in Bratton Clovelly and 2018 is set to bring a few more novel events.

10AM - 4PM

The programme starts on March 23 with an illustrated lecture by leading Cornish Art Historian, David Tovey. His subject will be his own colourful great-grandfather, William Titcombe, who Refreshments available was not only one of the great early artists of St Ives, but who Disabled access has left behind a large body of work that is of immense socialhistorical interest. Call Ross and his team today to discuss your needs and reserve your time and date

t f

01822 617232 T. 01822 617232 E. townhall@tavistock.gov.uk The evening’s entertainment will include a break for www.tavistock.gov.uk www.tavistocktownhall.co.uk refreshments and the bar will open at 7pm. The lecture starts townhall@tavistock.gov.uk Tavistock Town Hall, Bedford Square, Tavistock, PL19 0AE at 7.30pm and the venue is Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall. To

Tavistock Town Hall Bedford Square Tavistock PL19 0AE

book, email: brattonclovellyfestival@gmail.com

pieces. In September, there’ll be a return of the wonderful Cosgrave and Banks with an all-new repertoire and in October we’re delighted to have Puppetcraft performing their highly acclaimed puppet show, The Tin, suitable for ages 3-103. We’re also very pleased that, thanks to our generous sponsors, The Balsdon Trust and the Norman Family Trust, we are able to give to our local primary school, Boasley Cross, a day of Puppetcraft Workshops. Every child aged six years and over will take part in hments. For further information about any of the above, visit: www.brattonclovellyfestival.com or follow us on Facebook/ brattonclovellyfestival Joanna Wallwork Bratton Clovelly Festival

The summer concert this year will be the Devon-based Haldon String Quartet playing Mozart and Imogen Holst among other

BUSINESS AS USUAL DURING PANNIER MARKET IMPROVEMENTS Residents and visitors to Tavistock may be aware of the substantial improvements planned for the Pannier Market, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, scheduled for early 2018. The works include the repair and restoration of this Listed building incorporating re-roofing, essential repairs to valleys and gutters, repointing of the exterior, replacement of rainwater goods with heritage materials and replacement of the external doors. AD Williams Contractors will be undertaking the works necessitating the short term closure of the Market building from January - end of April 2018. To avoid inconvenience or disruption the Market’s stalls will continue to be ‘open for business’ by the temporary relocation

of regular traders to the adjacent Butchers’ Hall which is being refitted by RM Builders and Contractors. The kitchen for Bob’s Café will remain on site, but the café itself will operate from 3 East End Stores, at the rear of the Market. Other less frequent traders will be accommodated in either the Town Hall or on Bedford Square. Those businesses in shops located in the Market surround will continue as normal. When the works have been completed traders will return to the Pannier Market building. The Council will then bring the Butchers’ Hall into use as an additional themed market, adding to the unique offer of Tavistock as Devon’s premier Market Town.

FIND US just behind the high street and town hall in the heart of Tavistock FIND OUT MORE 01822 611003 www.tavistockpanniermarket.co.uk 44

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New Year with Okehampton Choral Society The Okehampton Choral Society is resuming its rehearsals on Monday January 8, at Fairplace Church, Okehampton - following its busy Christmas schedule, which included three performances of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ and lashings of seasonal music. There are lots of exciting plans for 2018 and it’s not too late to sign up and take part. The March concert will be a Gala Opera Night at Fairplace, featuring well-loved choruses by Bizet, Verdi, Borodin, Wagner and many others, as well as contributions from distinguished guest soloists. An Elizabethan Evening follows in May with an evening of Tudor madrigals and dances.

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

In June the society will be one of the many choirs taking part in the Dartmoor Resonance Festival in Princetown, where as well as their own contribution, they will be joining with singers from throughout West Devon and Cornwall for a performance of the dramatic cantata, ‘The Tavistock Witch’ - a re-telling of an old Dartmoor tale with words and music by the Okehampton Choral Society’s own musical director, Andrew Wilson. Whether you would like to come and join this lively and friendly choir for a vocal work out, or if you’d rather come and listen to the fruits of their work as a member of the audience, you can be sure of a warm welcome from the Okehampton Choral Society. For further details contact the society chairman, William Sutton-Coulson, on 01837 53109.

MUSIC & ART MARCH 9, 10, 16 &17

MED Theatre – Manaton and Moretonhampstead MED Theatre’s new community play, which will be touring villages on Dartmoor in March, is set partly on Dartmoor and partly on the coast.

Valuation Days

Chagford and Surrounding Areas We will be carrying out FREE valuations in your area on Tuesday 13th & Thursday 15th February 2018

It looks at the connection between our inland lives and the sea that surrounds us, examining issues around the South West’s reputation as a holiday destination and the consequence of the plastic that is so much a part of our modern inland lives. Dates of the play are March 9 and 10 in Manaton Parish Hall and March 16 and 17 in Moretonhampstead Parish Hall. Two more venues will be confirmed in the coming weeks. All performances take place at 7.30pm.

MED Theatre first grew out of a tradition of putting on original community plays, with an aim to promote Dartmoor’s distinctiveness through its culture and its people. Over the years its programme has expanded to include young people’s plays, film projects and dance, as well as wider research projects. For more information about MED Theatre go to www.medtheatre.co.uk or call 01647 441356.

FEBRUARY 23 - MARCH 10

The Tavonians Theatre Company presents ‘The Thrill of Love’

If you would like your property valued by one of our experts, please contact us on 01837 52371 mansbridgebalment

This gripping play by Amanda Whittington is about Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in Britain. A divorcee with a young child to care for, Ruth works in the kind of nightclubs where there’s more than just a drink on offer. The girls work hard, play hard and dream of a movie-star life. Then she meets the wealthy, womanising David, a racing driver with whom she becomes obsessed. Fame comes - but not in the way she imagines. Why does their relationship end in murder? Why does she plead not guilty but offer no defence? Why does she show no remorse? And who is she trying to protect? The Thrill of Love dramatises the true story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in Britain, and takes a fresh look at the woman behind the headlines.

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Friday 23 February - Mary Tavy, Coronation Hall

Saturday 24 February - Upton Cross, Sterts Studio Wednesday 28 February - Launceston, Town Hall Friday 2 March - Callington, PrimRAF Saturday 3 March - Tavistock, Town Hall Thursday 8 March - Meavy Parish Hall Friday 9 March - Holsworthy, HATS Theatre Saturday 10 March - Okehampton Charter Hall. Tickets will be on sale from mid-January from local ticket outlets or online at www.tavonians.org.uk

Travel Talks Winter 2018 Tues 9th Jan 2018 • 18:00 to 19:30 Three Crowns, Chagford

The Challenge of a Horse Riding Holiday Venture Co has provided original riding itineraries since 1999. Explore Africa, India and South America and the Challenge Rides that we operate for the BHS.

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If you live in another area, or these times are not suitable, we are also able to offer free property valuations and advice. Call us today on 01837 52371 46

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Beautiful local properties on the market….

We’re celebrating the first year in our Fore Street office!

YOUR FRIENDLY, TRUSTED AND RESPECTED LOCAL ESTATE AGENCY IN OKEHAMPTON

Thank you to our all our customers past and present and we look forward to working with you in 2018 Will you be selling or letting a property in Okehampton in 2018? Local homeowners and landlords have been trusting Bond Oxborough Phillips to get the best deal for them for more than 25 years. In that time, we’ve established ourselves as one of the leading independent estate agents in the region. Our reputation is built upon an exceptional sales record; giving our clients access to footfall and window space in many busy, central locations; and our ability to combine tried and tested marketing techniques with the latest technologies. But most importantly, we are known for our staff ’s expertise and knowledge of the local property market. We happily offer advice to anybody interested in buying, selling, letting or renting property in the area, so feel free to ask any questions you have.

Church Chambers, 26 Fore Street, Okehampton EX20 1AN SALES & LETTINGS 01837 500600

www.bopproperty.com 48

LOCAL PROPERTY

Email: okehampton@bopproperty.com

NORTHLEW A fabulous farmhouse situated in a delightful rural setting with grounds iro 12 acres. The property provides comfortable living accommodation and in addition there are 3 holiday cottages and a further cottage, ideal for letting or relative. There are numerous outbuildings including a superb and immaculate 60 x 45 barn, offering a range of uses. £1,195,000 Westcountry Homes Online 01837 53444

u OKEHAMPTON Westcountry

Homes Online have recently sold this stunning home situated in Okehampton and urgently require any large properties with good size family accommodation and preferably generous garden, to meet strong demand. Preferred areas are within a 10 mile or so radius of Okehampton. Westcountry Homes Online 01837 53444

BEAWORTHY A delightful 4

bedroom detached character modern house with large accommodation in grounds approaching 1 acre. Uninterrupted views over Bodmin moor and Dartmoor. Outbuildings. No near neighbours EPC – D. £430,000 Bond Oxborough Phillips 01837 500600

u BROADWOODKELLY

A delightful home with generous and versatile four bedroom accommodation and the potential to extend further if required, set within approximately 0.3 acre. Delightful gardens surround the property and the driveway leads to a 3 bay open garage with inspection pit, power and roof mounted solar panels, providing free day time electricity and a feed-in tariff of approximately £1,700 per annum. O.I.R.O £475,000 Okehampton Office 01837 52371

WINKLEIGH A spacious Grade II

listed 4 bedroom detached thatched cottage which is full of character and charm. Approx 1.5 acres total plot with no near neighbours. Dual occupancy potential. Orchard and large gardens. £450,000 Bond Oxborough Phillips 01837 500 600

CHICHACOTT Perfectly situated in this quiet rural hamlet and enjoying far-reaching views, a substantial Grade II Listed five bedroom character barn conversion, in delightful, well maintained gardens with garage and driveway parking. There is also a one bedroom garden house which is ideal for secondary accommodation. No onward chain. £615,000 Okehampton Office 01837 52371

Property Directory

If you have properties that you wish to include in this directory call Tim Randell on 01822 615627

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

NATIONAL TRUST

Celebrating winter in Lydford Gorge

Exploring and volunteering at Castle Drogo Winter is a very busy time for the team at Castle Drogo. There’s lots of important conservation work being done inside the castle as well as out in the gardens and estate. The building project to make the castle watertight is well into its final phase and the builders are busy dismantling the granite around the north west of the castle and laying the waterproofing layers onto the north roof. This is the time of year to make some New Year’s resolutions and get some inspiration for the year ahead. There are plenty of opportunities to help you do this at Castle Drogo. There are miles of walks through the woodlands and by the river for those looking to walk (or run) off some of that Christmas excess. If you’re looking to try something new, there are lots of varied volunteering opportunities, from welcoming visitors, explaining the building work up scaffolding viewing tower, to working behind the scenes with the staff - visit the Castle Drogo website or contact volunteering officer Alice Coombs on 01647 434114 for more information.

The visitor centre is open everyday (except 15 – 24 January) to warm up and treat yourself to some tea and cake or lunch with friends, so pop in and say hello.

FEBRUARY HALF-TERM FUN Saturday 10 – Sunday 18 February, 11am-4pm Hunt around the garden and grounds to find the boxes and answer the questions to claim your prize. (£1 per trail, normal admission applies).

WILD TRIBE Sunday 11 February, 11am-2pm Join the Wild Tribe at Fingle Bridge Meadows. Bushcraft activities for families with children aged 5 to 12. Put on clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, plus sturdy footwear. Please bring lunch, hot and cold drinks provided. Follow signs from Fingle Bridge. Adult £4, child £6. Booking essential on 01647 433306 or email castledrogo@nationaltrust.org.uk

Build your own bird box this half-term at Lydford Gorge. Materials and guidance provided by the ranger team along with info on the best place to put it up in your garden. £5 per bird box, booking advisable, normal admission applies.

FUN WITH FIRE Monday 12 February, 12-3pm Learn how to light a fire without matches, and then mix up some tasty dough to cook on a stick over the campfire. £2 per person, booking advisable, normal admission applies.

APPLE PRUNING WORKSHOP Saturday 17 February, 11am-1pm Join the ranger team in the orchard to learn the art of pruning apple trees. Part theory, part practical. Tools provided. Booking essential, normal admission applies.

nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01822 820320 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge

Call 01647 433306 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-drogo

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

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The circular walks to the Whitelady Waterfall and bird hide are available daily throughout January and February and can be accessed from the Waterfall car park, EX20 4BL, however no facilities are open except during half-term when the shop and tea-room will be open from Saturday, February 10 to Sunday, February 18, 11am to 3.30pm. Over half-term it is also possible to walk between the two entrances on the higher gorge path, which has lovely views over the gorge when there are no leaves on the trees.

Saturday 10 February, 1-3pm

Find the waterfall and bird Go crunching fallen leaves and discover a forest hide onthrough your next family teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities. adventure

Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities.

If you have ever wanted to know more about how to prune apple trees, join a hands-on morning in the orchard learning the art of pruning with the ranger team. Booking essential, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge or call 01822 820320 for more details.

BUILD A BIRD BOX

Burn off that extra Add some colour to energy at Lydford your weekend this Gorge autumn at Gibside

Add some colour the to Blow away your weekend this cobwebs this autumn at Gibside New Year at Castle Drogo

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent registered number © National Trust registered charity, number 205846.charity, Photography 205846. Photography © National Trust Images. Images.

There are lots of activities to keep families entertained this half-term at Lydford Gorge. Learn how to light a fire without matches and bake ‘bread on a stick’ over the flames. Build your own bird nest box with the help of the ranger team. The boxes can be adapted to suit different species, and personalised to your garden.

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NATIONAL TRUST

2 82

7 L L1427 CA 6

Finch Foundry – the Women’s Suffrage project I am lucky enough to be the site manager at Finch Foundry. Finch is a water-powered hammer mill located in Sticklepath, owned and maintained by the National Trust.

contributions saw them taking the place back from the brink of bankruptcy, not just keeping things going but creating an industry leader in the area.

From its opening in 1814 by the entrepreneurial Finch family, it grew to become a major player in Devon’s rural industry sector, using three water wheels to help produce up to 400 edge tools per day for the local farming, mining and quarry industries. The mill closed in 1960 due to instability, both physical and financial and was re-opened by the family a few years later as a museum. It was gifted to the National Trust in 2004 to help preserve it as the last working water-powered hammer mill in existence in England.

This project to show their contribution is part of the National Trust’s ‘Women in Power’ programme, helping tell stories of women who contributed to society during the centenary of the Women’s Suffrage movement.

In 2018 we will be exploring the contribution of two members of the Finch family who took the reins at the company during times of need. Emlin and Rebecca stepped in when their husbands died in order to keep the business going. Their

As a part of this, we would like to hear local people’s stories of suffragettes in the family and the things they achieved towards creating a more balanced society. These stories will go on display at Finch Foundry so we can build a better picture of the area at this massive time of change. If you would like to contribute please send through your stories to me, Ben, the Foundry Manager, at Benjamin.shapcott@ nationaltrust.org.uk, post them to us as Finch Foundry, Sticklepath, Okehampton, EX20 2NW or call 01837 840046.

The fire in the Add some colour to Forge at Finch your weekend this Foundry provides autumn at Gibside a warm glow this spring

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WALKS WITH WINNIE

WALKS WITH DOG WINNIE WALK

Walks with... Winnie A flat walk that’s easy to follow This walk has been kindly written (and walked) for us by Denise Horner of Dartmoor Nordic Walking with her dog Winnie. www.dartmoornordicwalking.co.uk www.petranger.co.uk

Dartmoor Nordic Walking is on Facebook Approximate time 45 minutes - one hour Around 1,000 steps and approximately 2.8k (nearly 2 miles) This walk can be followed without a map, as the path is quite clear. Starting and finishing at Finch Foundry Car Park in Sticklepath, this is a circular walk following the River Taw. Park behind the Devonshire Inn. Access is via an archway by the Foundry but is very narrow, so alternatively you could park on the main road. Winnie brought her friends Betty and Coco along for our walk too. This is a flat, easy walk, suitable for all of the family and dogs, with plenty of places to swim, however, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs. Care will be needed during the winter as the path along the river can be wet, muddy and slippery in places and on occasions of heavy rain, part of the walk may be inaccessible. During the summer it really is a lovely walk in the shade of the trees.

The walk starts from the car park, but first, take a look at the 19th century Summer House, next to the Quaker Burial Ground. The summer house was built by Thomas Pearce of Sticklepath and given to the village. The Foundry is the only waterpowered forge in England and definitely worth a visit. Usually open from April - November, it has a cafe and shop with toilet facilities too. Take the five bar gate from the car park, following the path, go over the bridge and turn right. Continue along the path to the next gate and take the lower path to your right. If you would like to increase the distance of your walk and add a steep hill, take the left hand path! The walk is easy to follow from here and stays by the river which is on your right. You will pass a salmon pool at the first bend with lots of deep pools for swimming. You are now walking through Skaigh Valley, with steep slopes on either side on the river. Continuing along the path you will see some

Walk along for about 100 metres - at this point you can either take a right down to the river’s edge or stay on the wide path to head back to the main road. Once you have reached the road from either path, the way back takes you into Sticklepath along the main road, turning right before the Devonshire Inn to get back to the car park. You have plenty of places to eat and drink here, The Devonshire Inn, Taw River, the local café and of course the Finch Foundry Café during the season.

Map for guide only. If you would like to join us for this as a guided walk, we will be meeting on Wednesday, January 17 at 10am. Please book your place at www.dartmoornordicwalking.co.uk

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The next bridge you come to is the ‘Tarka Bridge’ - have a look at the handrails to see the poem inscribed here. Continue into the trees for a few metres and take a right turn, which will bring you onto the path on the opposite side of the river.

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FOOD & DRINK

Method:

Three Crowns Scotch Egg

Jump in to ‘Dry January’ It doesn’t have to be boring - there are lots of alternatives to booze! Following a very merry Christmas, are you in the first few days of a self-imposed ‘dry’ January? In 2017 a YouGov survey showed that 5 million Britons took part in this annual event. As well as the abundance of health benefits, there’s the money you’ll save (which in January is always welcome), not to mention fewer wasted weekends nursing hangovers - and the sense of achievement by February 1. New research from Royal Free Hospital backs up just how good a month off the booze is for the body, such as improvements in concentration and sleep patterns, as well as a positive impact on blood sugar levels, blood pressure and the liver. Major pub chains have announced they are stocking more non-alcoholic beer in response to the demand from customers during ‘Dry January’.

On the wagon Thankfully, going without the booze doesn’t mean you have to be antisocial or skip that post-shift visit to the pub. And it doesn’t mean you’re relegated to Shirley Temples and sparkling water either (though I’m not ashamed to admit that I do like a Shirley Temple from time to time . . .) Here are some alcohol-free drink ideas to enjoy at home or which are readily available at any well stocked bar - and actually taste great! Skip the gin! Tonic water is delicious on its own. You can find it in so many different guises, infused with numerous flavours from elderflower to pomegranate. Better yet, it’s almost guaranteed to be behind the bar. So order a tonic water with a slice of lime and enjoy! Fentimans offer a range of superb botanical beverages. The Rose Lemonade (£2.89 for 750ml) is a excellent alternative to white wine. Gluten free and containing no artificial sweeteners, this blast of summer will keep your tastes buds tantalised! Don’t confuse ginger beer with ginger ale (aka Canada dry). While they are similar, ginger beer has a much stronger ginger flavour and far less sugar. Admittedly, it’s still far closer to 56

Bring a saucepan of water to the boil and add the four whole eggs. Gently boil for 5 minutes, remove and place in iced water. Remove shell when cold and set to one side.

a soft drink than a beer, but it’ s more interesting than soda water and far less sugary than other soft drink options. Again, it’s delicious garnished with a wedge or lemon or lime. Coffee and caffeine may not be what you need just before hitting the pillow, but who’s to say you can’t have a decaf coffee? I’m a huge coffee lover and have used this trick myself when I just wanted something tasty and hot on a cold night. A cupboard essential at home and chances are pretty good if you’re out, the bar or pub’s going to need to brew you a pot – but hey, it’ll be fresh! I’m embarrassed to admit that it was a very long time before I realised that Grenadine is not actually alcoholic. It’s an ingredient that you’ll find in cocktails and ‘mocktails’ alike – and for good reason! Teisseire Sirop Grenadine (£3.09 for 600ml), is made of a delicious blend of red fruits, raspberries, elderberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants and lemon. Here are some ideas for teetotal tipples with Grenadine that won’t end your dry streak:

This is the Three Crowns take on Scotch eggs, and very popular it is too! You’ll find this dish as a starter on the ‘pub classics’ section of the menu, served with a dressed leaf salad and homemade piccalilli. Serves 4

Ingredients:

Food served all day

Divide the meat mixture into four and flatten out into ovals approximately 12cm x 7cm. Place each egg onto the meat oval and wrap the mixture around ensuring the coating is smooth, even and fully covers the egg.

4 x medium free-range eggs 250g sausage meat 25g black pudding 1 tablespoon chopped parsley Salt and black pepper 125g seasoned flour 2 x beaten eggs 125g breadcrumbs (we use panko crumbs) Vegetable oil for frying

Locally sourced food & drink

Mix the sausage meat and black pudding together, season well.

Roll each meat-coated egg in the seasoned flour, dip until evenly coated in the beaten egg and then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until completely covered in the crumb mix. Deep fry for 1 minute at 180ºC then place on a pre-heated baking tray in a pre-heated 170ºC oven for 4 minutes. If you don’t have a deep fat fryer, shallow fry in a pan until the breadcrumbs are lightly browned.

Three Crowns

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•A ‘Sunrise’ (Tequila Sunrise without the Tequila) Orange juice, grenadine and garnish with a segment of orange.

Dog Friendly

• T he ‘Suburb’” (a non-alcoholic Cosmopolitan) Replace the triple sec with orange juice, remove the vodka and add a splash of Grenadine. •A nd my absolute favourite, the ‘Lime Rickey’ - cranberry juice and soda, with a splash of lime cordial or just some squeezed limes if you’re worried about the sugar content of the cordial. Simple, but so good!

One month of R&R Taking a month off to recuperate from the festive season is not a bad idea at all. Hopefully I’ve given you a few suggestions to keep in your back pocket so you can still enjoy those nights on the town or relaxing evenings in. After all, January is only 744 hours!

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HISTORY

Family history research resources

The Song of the Columbines Columbus found America in good old stirring times And rightly wrote its name on history’s page. But Okey’s found a hockey club, it’s called the Columbines, A rival to its enterprise and age. They have all the skill required to control the lively ball, They can pass and shoot and dribble with the best, And at half time to the solid satisfaction of us all, They can suck the Lordly Lemon with real zest! Chorus

1952/1953 Okehampton Columbines Hockey Club team: Back row, Betty Comyn, Ducal Steuart, Marjorie Measures, Muriel Cook, Elizabeth Kearsey and Beryl Guscott. Front row, Vera Northcott, Vivienne Heard, Cathy Self, Diana Furse and Janie Mortimore.

Turning the clock back on Okehampton Columbines Hockey Club Who can remember the days when a hockey stick looked like this? This lovely picture was submitted to Oke Links by Mike and Hilary Wreford of Okehampton. Hilary (née Bird) was a former player, captain and secretary of the hockey club. The image of the Okehampton Columbines hockey team dates back to the 1952/1953 season. The team included Marjorie (Minnie) Measures, a popular French teacher and deputy head of Okehampton Grammar School, who was an outstanding sportswoman. She skippered the Columbines for many years, having already captained the British Universities hockey side. She went on to become a regular member of the Devon county team. She was later chosen to be a selector for the Devon and Western Territory sides. As a teacher, Marjorie was instrumental in selecting some of the outstanding schoolgirl players for Okehampton, such as Val Rees, Ivy Trant, Beryl Guscott, Diana Furse, Hilary Bird, Jennifer Cook, Marie Slee, Pat Penfold and others, who would play for the school in the morning and the town in the afternoon. Mike remembers that while it was obvious that Minnie was an excellent hockey player, it is not so widely known that 58

the French teacher had actually been selected to represent England in the 1940 Olympics. Sadly, the outbreak of World War II caused the cancellation of the games and like so many people, her life was altered for ever. Janie Mortimer can be seen in the front row of the picture - she was an outstanding sportswoman and was married to Denzil, whose own promising sporting career had been curtailed by the onset of the war. Denzil had moved to Okehampton as a newly qualified teacher. He was a footballing centre forward with lightning pace and cannonball shot. He was spotted by various football league scouts and played several games as an amateur for Exeter City before his big break came, in the form of a contract offer from the famous London side, Arsenal. Denzil travelled to Highbury to be met by Exeter-born England international player Cliff Bastin and he signed league forms before the Gunners’ management team of George Allison and Tom Whittaker. However, shortly after this, war broke out and the league programme was cancelled after just three games. Denzil was denied what might have been a glittering career with the top London side.

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They are strong in the arm and it won’t do any harm, If you come and have a look at them one day, For when things look rather blue, well, they score a goal or two, Before they really settle down to play. The shout of ‘Columbines’ brings a shiver down the spines And into the heads of rivals brings grey hairs. Their costumes and their fit - well, they’re absolutely ‘it’, Oh! You’d love a little team like theirs. R Wilkinson May 1921 During the war, Denzil rose to to the rank of captain in the Tank Regiment, but he suffered a serious head wound that put paid to him heading the ball on the football field. Following the war he returned to Okehampton and resumed his career as a teacher. In his first season playing for Okehampton Argyle,

he scored a record 84 goals. As a respected teacher, he was known as a strong disciplinarian, later becoming headmaster at North Tawton Secondary Modern School and later, deputy head at his first school, Okehampton College.

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There are many resources, both in print and online, which will help you learn how to research your family history in a thorough way. There are numerous books on genealogy, so I will mention only a few that you may find useful: Family History for Beginners by Karen Foy is a good, helpful introduction to all the basic sources and methods. The Genealogists’s Internet by Peter Christian, gives a thorough overview of the genealogy websites available, although of course new ones arise all the time. Genealogy: Essential Research Methods by Helen Osborn, teaches you more advanced research methods and helps with problem solving. Nuts and Bolts by Andrew Todd, gives advice on breaking down ‘brick walls’. Ancestral Trails by Mark Herber, is the most comprehensive guide to genealogy, covering everything you can think of. There are also various websites which teach how to research family history: The Family Search Research Wiki at www.familysearch.org/wiki/en/Main_ Page shows the records available for any given place, explains where to find record collections and gives advice on carrying out research anywhere in the world. It contains links to many other sites, including the very useful parish maps of England in 1851. Vision of Britain at www.visionofbritain. org.uk/index.jsp provides in-depth historical sources for the whole of Britain, including local history, population through time, occupations and housing, as well as related websites. If you are interested in taking an online course, the excellent free course at FutureLearn, entitled Genealogy: Researching Your Family Tree, is well worth doing. You can access it at www.futurelearn.com/courses Susan Francia Family History Research Services 01822 820855 fhistoryresearch@gmail.com www.family-historyresearch.co.uk

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JEWELLERY DESIGNER How long have you been a jewellery designer? I started my jewellery business in 2009. What qualifications or experience do you need? Jewellery designing and making is a vast subject containing a massive array of skilled techniques. You can pick up basic bits and play around from there, but to be able to have the freedom with your designs it’s best to be qualified. This can involve college and university or work experience/industry experience, I’ve done both just to cover all bases! What does your typical working day consist of? Morning coffee is a must! I’m at the bench in the mornings usually making the individual links or clasps. I’ll have a lunch break, which often involves checking and replying to emails at the same time, and then back to the bench to ‘knit’ the links together. I’ll have a quick jog and then settle in for the evening with a nice home cooked meal with my partner Olly. What influences your work? My work is influenced by the storied culture of the First Nations - their artefacts, textiles and basketry are so highly skilled, passed from generation to generation. They are colourful and transcendent. Recently I journeyed for a research trip to Vancouver Island and Alert Bay, Canada BC, visiting the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations tribe to study their art and culture. It was so inspiring, they were completely magical and in touch with nature. There is so much to learn from these people.

* UOTE COD EO

What is your favourite metal?

L0118 **

I love all precious metals! But my two favourites are titanium - the natural gunmetal grey colour is stunning although harder to work with - and 18ct yellow gold. The depth of gold is mesmerising and so beautiful to work on.

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Is there a particular type of jewellery you like to make? My work uses mainly the traditional technique of flat chain mail which has endless possibilities but comes with challenging rules! Making this metal fabric that moves so fluidly is immensely satisfying. I also love making hinges! Obviously I love a good challenge! Has the way you work changed over the years? Yes, I started out with inspiration of floral designs inspired by my home of Cornwall, but I’ve always had a fascination with First Nations culture and so about four years ago I changed my focus and now there’s so much more I want to explore and learn in this direction. The research will all be showcased in a solo exhibition at the Riverside Gallery at The Devon Guild in 2020, which I’m very excited about. What is the most challenging part of your work? Time management! All I want to do is play and research, but this job entails a lot of paperwork so juggling my time can be really tricky. Loads of different areas of ‘behind the scenes’ stuff has to happen for all the cogs to move, not just the making, so keeping up to date and ahead of yourself leads to lots and lots of lists (which I secretly love) and working into the night on occasions! What is the best part of your job? Being able to do what I love and am most passionate about for a living. Designing and making usual and interesting jewellery and seeing it being appreciated by the general public is such a rewarding feeling. Buying individual and uniquely hand made crafts brings so much joy to people, it’s so lovely to see and to be a part of this industry. www.corrinneeiraevans.bigcartel.com

JANUARY

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