Oke Links November/December 21 by Links Magazines

OKE LINKS Nov/Dec 2021 | Issue 28

EDWARDIAN EVENING IS BACK!

Meet the locals

The Reverend Chris Jackson shares his story

FESTIVE WHAT’S ON DIARY

A Green Woodworker from North Bovey

Music, Theatre, Arts, Christmas Markets, Lights and much more

Dartmoor Peat offsetting climate change

Feeding body and Soul Okehampton’s Community Garden

Royal British Legion Remembrance Sunday Services COM

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HISTORY

Historic postcards of town

EDUCATION

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GARDENING

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Welcome to the November/December edition of the Oke Links – this is a very special issue because this is my first ever one as Editor with the Links Magazines.

This is a highlight in my career – it seems like only yesterday that I started out as a trainee reporter, back in 2005. I would like to take the time to thank this magazine’s previous Editor, Jane Honey, for her dedicated work in making Oke Links a huge success and for her faith in me to take on her ‘babies’. She has been my friend, colleague, mentor and boss for many, many years and I wish her well in her retirement. The deadline date for any inclusions in the January/ February issue of Oke Links will be December 1st, 2021. For all editorial enquiries please contact editor Lindsay Turpin: lindsay.turpin @linksmagazines.co.uk

THE LINKS TEAM: Publisher: Tim Randell Editor: Lindsay Turpin Design: Sara Venner, Julian Rees Advertising: Jane Daniel, Olivia Breyley, Joanne Mallard,

Tim: 07450 161 929 Jane: 07772 619 808 Contact Lindsay Turpin, Editor on 07738 231933 lindsay.turpin @linksmagazines.co.uk Front cover image: Credit Ben Andrew, RSPB

Contents

6 Feature 8 Local people 13 Noticeboard 24 Charity Focus 27 Health 31 Education 33 Business 36 Gardening 40 Finance

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It’s been an absolute delight meeting people in and around Okehampton, whether that has been in person, on the phone or via email; you have all made me feel so welcome. Thank you! In this edition, we have everything you would want to know about the town’s goings on this November /December, including Edwardian Evening, the Santa Run at Rosemoor, the switching on of Christmas lights around the area and the many festive fairs that are taking place. Our local people featured in this issue are passionate about their crafts – I met with Okehampton’s newest resident, The Rev Chris Jackson, who details his career to date and what he has planned for the West Devon Methodist Ministry Circuit following his recent appointment to circuit superintendent. Meanwhile, Sharif Adams is leading the way with the once forgotten craft of pole-lathe bowl turning, which is now gaining international recognition. This edition’s charity focus is Okehampton Community Garden. The not-for-profit project has slowly become a firm favourite with locals. You can also read about the couple from Drewsteignton who had a very special guest at their wedding; how a man from Belstone, who is reliant on a wheelchair, conquered a Dartmoor tor; plus read about how an Okehampton woman completed an arduous trek for charity. When you sit down to read this issue, I am sure there will be a frosty feeling in the air and everyone’s thoughts will be turning to Christmas. On page 56 Dave Anning gives some suggestions to help make shopping for your festive wine a treat, rather than a chore! I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Oke Links and I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Lindsay Lindsay Turpin, Editor

41 Sport 43 Farming 45 What’s On 53 Music and Art 56 Food and Drink 58 History 60 Walk 63 Business Directory 66 Trade Secrets

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

FEATURE

Hallowed Turf? From Ritual to Restoration

Dartmoor upland peat towards Teignhead Farm © Caya Edwards

Dartmoor peat has been our source of fire and water for millennia. Walk up on to the high ground on Dartmoor at any time of year and the going gets more difficult with each squelchy footfall. Standing in this open landscape surrounded by miles of blanket bog, thoughts turn to the people of the past and what brought them here. In many cases it seems to have been the peat. This material is made up of layer upon layer of partially decomposed sphagnum moss and one of its qualities is the ability to retain water. Traversing this wet mass is very difficult for humans and animals and it is why a number of peat passes have been constructed over time to allow access to more remote areas.

and warming homes against the harsh winters. It was used extensively in the Dartmoor tin industry; turned into charcoal, it burned as fiercely as any coal and remarkably it was even exported to Cornwall, when Cornish tin miners recognised its excellent quality! For more information on the peat cutters and the uses of peat, see Tim Sandles’ article on his website Legendary Dartmoor.

Watery landscapes have been valued and exploited by humans for thousands of years. Dartmoor’s world-renowned archaeological sites, Bronze Age stone circles and stone rows and the well-known White Horse Hill burial cist, are situated within the peat and the entire upland is a prehistoric landscape containing subtle remnants of past human activity.

Today Dartmoor peat is valued for different reasons Fast forward to the present day and the blanket peat is valued for very different reasons. Digging peat for fuel is no longer allowed and the water that falls on Dartmoor is ultimately our drinking water. Increasing awareness of climate change has turned the international spotlight on peat uplands for their ability to store carbon and since 2015 the South West Peatland Partnership has carried out work on high Dartmoor to restore areas of degraded peat, with the aim of ensuring that it can fulfil the function of holding water and storing carbon into the future.

Peat has been cut and dried for hundreds of years to keep hearths burning across the moor and beyond, preserving life

Therein lies a problem, how do we safeguard the wildness and remoteness of Dartmoor and at the same time carry

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FEATURE

Naturally formed peat bog with sphagnum, upper reaches of the East Dart © Chris Chapman

out work with heavy equipment in remote areas of formerly untouched blanket peat? How do we plan for work that must be carried out within delicate ecosystems and world renowned archaeological landscapes, and how do we know the extent of the degraded peat or the best way to identify and conserve damaged areas?

The Dartmoor Society Autumn conference looks at this restoration work. Hallowed Turf: Perspectives on the Conservation of Dartmoor’s Blanket Peat will be held on Friday, November 12 at the Charter Hall, Okehampton. The Dartmoor Society is a charity well-known for hosting events that bring together experts to discuss subjects relating to Dartmoor and this year the focus is on how best to conserve blanket peat. How do you conserve peat? What restoration work is planned and how is it carried out? Water companies, farmers, archaeologists and nature conservationists have differing priorities. Can they find ways to achieve the same goal of conserving the peat and protecting the landscape? Caya Edwards, secretary of the Dartmoor Society, is organising the conference: ‘With the publication of the Mire on the Moors report in 2020 we thought it a good time to invite some of those most closely involved in the project to talk about their work. We are so pleased that all the scientists and professionals we asked agreed to take part and we really appreciate the efforts they have made to prepare the information for us to hear on the day. We are also delighted that Keith Bungay, former chief executive of Exmoor National Park Authority, who has also worked extensively on Dartmoor, has agreed to chair the conference. ‘Almost all the speakers are directly involved in this project or have knowledge that can contribute to our understanding See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

Tinners’ mould stone Dartmoor © Caya Edwards

of an undertaking on this scale, but one of the speakers, Geoff Eyres is a farmer and agricultural businessman from the Peak District. For the past 30 years, on his own initiative, he has developed methods to regenerate peat and associated flora on his land. He is coming down especially to talk at this conference and it will be interesting to hear how one person’s initiative has persisted and what the results have been. We wonder, could his ideas be of use to us on Dartmoor?’ Another speaker, Richard Brazier, heads the University of Exeter research team behind the Peatland Partnership’s project and he will talk about the science that has informed the restoration programme. Rural social scientist and conservationist Adrian Colston will reflect on how different stakeholder interests make the project so complex and sometimes controversial, and Morag Angus from SWW will talk about the logistics of this complex work and how it is carried out on the ground. Kevin Cox is chairman of the UK RSPB and he will talk about the impacts on birds and nature conservation in the areas subject to re-wetting. Martin Gillard, environment officer for the South West Peatland Partnership, will give the audience some insights into how archaeological sites are considered and the potential for new finds in the peatland restoration programme. For more details see the Dartmoor Society websitedartmoorsociety.com/conference The conference papers will be summarised in a forthcoming Dartmoor Society members publication. Caya Edwards Dartmoor Society

LOCAL PEOPLE

Chris Jackson A career focussed around God, literature . . . and coffee One of Okehampton’s newest residents is The Rev Chris Jackson – the newly appointed superintendent for the West Devon Methodist Ministry Circuit. Chris is bringing his positive and ‘glass overflowing’ approach to his new posting where his goal is to bring the church away from the Victorian model of communication and in to the 21st century. Chris and his wife Jo moved to Okehampton in August this year. His career and his calling within the church have taken them on many journeys, including the remote Shetland Islands where they were based for ten years, Northern Scotland and now West Devon. His role sees him looking after the well-being of parishioners from 15 churches in the Methodist circuit, from Belstone to Bridestowe and Northlew to Winkleigh. Either from the comfort of his home office, online or in person, Chris hopes to use his multi-model level of communication to reach everyone possible. Looking around his office it is clear to see that Chris has many interests – we see he is a fan of Liverpool Football Club, an admirer of artist Leonardo Da Vinci, an enthusiastic reader with books reaching the thousands, and a fan of sci-fi programme Doctor Who. However, it is not just his interests that vary, his careers have taken him on an interesting journey but the core has always been the same and that is his faith. . . and a love of coffee! ‘I had a very strange career and I am a proud to be a nerd!’ Joked Chris.

Born and raised in Bedford, Chris grew up influenced by both the Church of England and Methodists as the two were united in his village. Growing up in the CofE, Chris was converted to Christianity in a Methodist Church in his 20s. ‘It can be confusing but I like to explain by saying that we are all coffee but we are just slightly different blends – we have different emphasis on the same thing, God,’ explained Chris. When he finished his first degree in computing at 20, Chris became an analyst programmer which he said was where he created programmes and sat around drinking coffee! ‘That job was incredibly fun, but then I went into full time Christian ministry for Scripture Union as one of the senior retail managers.’ After ten years years Chris then became publishing manager of Kingsway where he was able to travel all over the world and sit around drinking coffee – there is a theme here! But he had reached the peek of his career and he had the ‘itchy feet feeling’ and felt that God was saying it was time for him to do something else. ‘I had a sense that God was giving me a new challenge. I began to look at publishing jobs in Canada, we even filled out emigration forms. But throughout this Shetland started to be included in all conversations, and over the next six months I resigned, put our house on the market and put our belongings in a van and we even had somewhere to live for three months. We said that we would go and see what happens and we ended up living there for ten years.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

five years before he was asked to become the superintendent for the West Devon Methodist Ministry Circuit. ‘We are not employed, we are sent by appointment by the Methodist Conference who marry up the right person for the right place. We like going to different places, meet new people, new areas, it keeps us fresh spiritually and we felt it was right to come back to England,’ Chris explained.

‘I went from global ministry to extreme rural ministry, I spoke to hundreds and then preached to two ladies in a chapel in the middle of a field with water running down the walls – God has such a sense of humour!’ But the next step was one that Chris never saw coming. ‘I always used to say that the ministry would never get a collar around my neck but being in Shetland got me to a point where I knew this was my next step.’ To become a Methodist minister is not a decision you make alone, it is up to other people to decide if you are the right person. If this is agreed then it takes about six years until you are ordained into the world wide church of God as a minister of the Methodist church. At his first posting Chris and Jo were moved to Northern Scotland in Buckie on the Moray Coast where they lived for

‘All my backgrounds with work and education have merged and that is why I am here. COVID has been awful but it has allowed the church to reassess the change that was coming. ‘A lot of churches are asking the questions: What is church about and what do we offer? I see a rise in digital church, I did a lot of church online and we spoke to people online from all over the world. Now there is a talk of a hybrid model of church. ‘I don’t talk about a decline in Christianity, it’s just a decline of the old style. Christianity isn’t going anywhere, it’s still the largest religion and still growing. It’s just shifting from the Victorian model – it’s always shifting and in a state of flux and that’s a good thing. We will still share the teachings of Jesus Christ but we are not going to have one way of doing it we will have multiple ways and all of these will be equally viable. There won’t be just the one method which was church on a Sunday. I believe my role will be to help make that happen.’ Lindsay Turpin

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Sharif Adams A guiding light in an almost forgotten craft A craftsman from North Bovey has become the guiding light for handcrafted everyday items using age-old traditional tools and techniques. Sharif Adams is leading the way with the once forgotten craft of pole-lathe bowl turning which is now gaining international recognition. The pole-lathe is thought to be one of the first machines ever invented and involves using a foot powered treadle attached with cordage to a springy sapling or pole. This makes a piece of wood spin between two centres. The person operating the lathe cuts and shapes the spinning wood using special types of chisels. Sharif’s interest in wood work was

sparked in 1998 when he was at London Guildhall University. Later, he worked with antique furniture but it was not until he found the ‘joy and creative freedom’ of working with green wood that he knew he had found his calling. ‘Green woodwork is what I love,’ he said. Green wood is wood which is freshly cut or has not yet dried. It’s easier to work with hand tools than dry wood. As green wood bowls dry they warp slightly, giving each bowl a unique form so that no two are exactly the same. This discovery was made while on a spoon carving course run by a teacher called Robin Wood. ‘We were served food in beautiful wooden bowls and

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plates and I just felt the “aliveness” of them. Robin told me he had made them and my first question was “can you teach me?”’ Robin was unable due to commitments so Sharif set out to find someone to teach him the ancient art – and it turned out this would be the beginning of his eventful green wood working journey. After finding someone who taught Sharif the fundamentals of the craft 11 years ago he was able to transform his skill and make it his own – since then Sharif has been across the country to teach others in pole lathe turning and creates his many items from within his rustic workshop set within the Dartmoor National Park. ‘It’s been an interesting journey. When I started learning this craft there were more people alive who had been to the moon than who knew how to turn these items on a pole-lathe. Now there is a festival each year where people come from all around the world to spend five days together doing workshops and learning more about this. ‘Many of the people who I have taught over the years are now running their own courses in pole-lathe bowl turning and earning a full-time living from the craft. The Heritage Crafts Association

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LOCAL PEOPLE

has a “red list” of endangered crafts which are at risk of being lost. Polelathe bowl turning was on that list as “critically endangered” but it has now been reclassified as “currently viable” and is growing in popularity all the time,’ said Sharif. When talking about his business, it is clear that Sharif is passionate about keeping the ancient craft alive: ‘My business includes selling wooden bowls, plates, boxes and cups via my website and as commissions; running various courses from beginner to advanced at my workshop and around the country at wood turning festivals and events; and increasingly selling the various tools required for pole lathe turning which I post all around the world.

‘Increasing tool sales is an indication of just how rapidly interest in this once forgotten craft is growing internationally. I also offer one hour bowl turning demos from my workshop to individuals and groups by arrangement, during which I talk about the history of pole lathe turning and answer questions while turning a bowl.’ When making items they all start with a block of green wood which is cut from a straight log without knots or branches. It is then roughly shaped with a carving axe before being mounted on the lathe. The back of the bowl is shaped first, then it’s re-mounted in a different position so the inside can be hollowed and shaped to mirror the outside form. The bowl is then carefully dried for a

few weeks and finally finished with food grade walnut or flaxseed oil, ready for daily use. Long ago everybody would have eaten all their meals from wooden bowls and plates. Lots of people are now rediscovering the simple pleasure of eating from handcrafted wooden ware. Sharif is a part of the Dartmoor Artisan Trail which showcases local talent. It links arts, crafts and food and gives visitors to the moor the opportunity to watch makers at work, take part in classes and buy products directly from their creators. To view more on Sharif, visit www.sharifadams.co.uk Lindsay Turpin

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Important guest attends couple’s special day Moor Otters artist Alexis Cole and her husband Andrew DiBattista from Drewsteignton had a very special guest at their wedding. Wheal Otters, a beautiful sculpture designed by Alexis for Dartmoor National Park’s hugely successful Moor Otters Arts Trail, was among the guests at their special day. Wheal Otters was one of 81 sculptures which spent summer dotted across the National Park for people to find. The trail aims to raise £60,000 for Donate for Dartmoor. Alexis works with acrylic canvasses and animal-focused pastels and says she has always been passionate about creating art inspired by nature and animals. Alexis said: ‘We love the different areas, landscapes and features - from vast open grasslands, to streams, stone circles, dramatic tors, clear skies, thundery skies, winter and summer - we just love it, Dartmoor is so special to us, it’s where we got engaged. ‘I was an avid otter spotter during the first Moor Otters Arts Trail in 2017 and loved seeing the designs and the

different effects created on the same blank sculpture - that trail led me to explore parts of the moor I didn’t know about and it inspired me to get involved with the second trail.’ She designed Wheal Otters to recognise the mining industry on Dartmoor and the inspiration comes from Wheal Betsy; the engine house near Tavistock. ‘The adult otter represents copper and the cub represents tin, both metals mined on the moor. The cogs represent the inner machinery/pumps enabling the wheals to work. The parent and cub together represent the families that mining supported over generations.’ Throughout Moor Otters Arts Trail, Wheal Otters was hosted by the

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Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe-in-theMoor and they were only too happy to give the otter a short break so it could attend the wedding. Having paid lots of love and attention to designing the sculpture she was keen to see Wheal Otters one last time before it goes to its new home. Following their wedding at Holy Trinity Church, Drewsteignton, guests were delighted to see Wheal Otters at the reception at Lewtrenchard Manor. Alexis said: ‘When we drove up to Lewtrenchard Manor in our wedding car, the feeling when I saw Wheal Otters there, waiting for us in pride of place by the entrance - and knowing the efforts Dartmoor National Park and the Rugglestone Inn made to get them there for me - was very special. We had our welcome drinks, canapés and photographs with the otter looking over us. It even featured in my dad’s speech! ‘Our guests felt the sculpture was a very special addition to our day, they loved having a ‘private view’ and several guests continued to otter spot during their weekend in Devon after the wedding’. Lindsay Turpin

NOTICEBOARD

Adventure for Alzheimer’s Sue Wonnacott is a lady with a giving heart who completed an arduous trek in aid of Alzheimer’s Society – the latest in a long line of charity adventures she has undertaken. The Okehampton woman overcame her own health problems to take on 13-miles of the Trek26 Dartmoor 2021 for the Alzheimer’s charity with her friend Sarah Pares. Sue completed the challenge in memory of her mum Diana who was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s in her 40s and died after a decline over many years when she was 58. ‘My mum was a fit and healthy person who loved the outdoors, especially riding horses and gardening,’ said Sue. ‘Unfortunately she was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s when she was in her 40s which was very young. I have just reached the age of 60 and it has really hit me now how young she was and how much she missed out on with her grandchildren. It has been 20 years since she died but her memory and the impact of her death continues to this day for me, my dad and the whole family.

Sue’s mum Diana meeting Princess Diana in a London hospital while Sue’s mum was there due to her early onset Alzheimer’s

‘I walked with Sarah, my oldest friend, who used to be my next door neighbour. She also lost her mum to dementia. Our mums used to love amateur dramatics and regularly appeared together in plays for the Belstone Players.’

Sue and Sarah trained hard for the trek in all weathers on Dartmoor but it was not always easy as two weeks before the event Sue had to have surgery for an abscess to her groin which had to be drained. ‘It was touch and go as to whether I could safely undertake the walk but after all the support I have received, I decided to give it a go! ‘It was fantastic to finish as the last two miles were quite tough with my wound aching and being along roads, it was harder on tired legs but it was an achievement to help such a worthwhile charity,’ said Sue. So far the amount raised is almost £1,400. If you would like to donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Susan-wonnacott2

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Epic adventure raises thousands for charity A man reliant on a wheelchair conquered a Dartmoor tor thanks to the dedication by his local mountain rescue team. Gilbert Taylor, 62, and his wife Jane, moved to Belstone so he could be closer to nature after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Previously the couple would enjoy walking holidays around the world. Mr Taylor said he was delighted with his new view of the tor but would wonder what the view was like from the top. Mr Taylor could only admire the view of Belstone Tor from his garden.

North Dartmoor Search and Rescue team was asked if it could help Mr Taylor reach the top and members agreed to make his dream a reality which was completed on Saturday, September 4. The NDSAR team stretchered Mr Taylor to the top with Jane beside him so they could enjoy a flask of coffee at the top: ‘Just like we did when we used to walk together on other parts of the moor in the past,’ he said.

and around Dartmoor 365 days of the year. He had a previous target of £1,000 which was smashed after the event received national attention - the total currently stands at a whopping £6,206.

Mr Taylor set up a JustGiving page to thank the team for the vital and difficult job it does rescuing people on

If you would like to donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ gilbert-taylor1

Byelaw Review The byelaws are in place to protect the special qualities of Dartmoor National Park including its wildlife, habitats, cultural heritage, archaeology and the livestock that graze the commons. The current set of byelaws relating to access land on Dartmoor were adopted in 1989 and are therefore over 30 years old. A review of these byelaws, agreed by the authority at its meeting held in public on September 3, aims to ensure the byelaws are updated to be: • Relevant and proportionate for modern society

• C lear and easy to understand • C over the right activities and areas • Complement other powers and legislation. A six-week public consultation on the proposed changes ran from September 20 and the DNPA was grateful to receive many responses.

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‘We are hopeful that the proposed revised byelaws will offer greater clarity and guidance to all users of Dartmoor and will enable the Ranger team to more effectively inform, educate and where necessary enforce the byelaws,’ said Simon Lee, Ranger team manager. Simon is reminding members of the public to drive with care on the Dartmoor road network this winter: ‘The animals do like to lie on the roads in wintertime as the black tarmac holds the heat of the sun and they like to lick the salt from the road. Unfortunately, every year there are many livestock casualties on the roads, so please help us to reduce these.’ Simon Lee

NOTICEBOARD

Crowds go Wild for Wildlife Over 400 people came out to celebrate and investigate Dartmoor’s wildlife on back in the summer by the old Meldon Quarry. After a difficult year it was an opportunity for everyone to explore beyond their immediate backyard and remind themselves of what makes Dartmoor so special. This annual event of wildlife activities was organised by the Dartmoor National Park Outreach team but it was very much a partnership effort with individual stalls run by local wildlife groups and with the generous support of Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council. Event Organiser Andy Bailey from Dartmoor National Park said: ‘It has been great to get out there and run a face to face event again and to see the

enthusiasm from visitors and colleagues for Dartmoor’s wildlife. People have been able to go on ranger led wildlife walks, see slow worms close up, dip for wildlife in the stream and even make friends with snails. There has been lots of crafty activities for people to take home and we’ve been encouraging everyone to take part in our Time for Nature Challenge. The day has been a great success.’ The event was supported by Devon Wildlife Trust, Devon Reptile and Amphibian Group, National Trust, Sticklepath and Okehampton Conservation Group, Devon Mammal group, Okement River Improvement Group, Adventure Okehampton, Plantlife, Moor Meadows Group, Okehampton Guides, Taw River Dairy and the Rangers, volunteers, trainees

and ecologist from Dartmoor National Park. Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council funded the event with a grant of £500. Plans are already in place for next years event which will take place on Tuesday, August 23. Visit our website for information about all our other events. If you are keen to explore Dartmoor’s wildlife in the meantime the Time for Nature Challenge runs until March 2022. The Dartmoor National Park website has all the details www.dartmoor.gov. uk/enjoy-dartmoor/dartmoor-at-70/ time-for-nature-challenge

National Great Big Green Week Residents young and old flocked to Sampford Courtenay’s village green recently to take part in a bug hotel workshop. Sampford Courtenay Environmental and Sustainability Group (SCEnSus, a sub-committee of the parish council) organised the event to coincide with the National Great Big Green Week.

Parishioners were able to build a big bug hotel for the green, they enjoyed a variety of family games, and explored the variety of ingenious garden items that have been repurposed by SCEnSus members from plastic bottles, bottle tops and riot-shields which had been donated by Devon and Cornwall Police.

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NOTICEBOARD

Recognised for outstanding contribution Archaeologist Dr Tom Greaves has received a Dartmoor Society award for his outstanding contribution to Dartmoor. The award honoured Dr Greaves’ lifelong interest in Dartmoor and his dedication to preserve and develop Dartmoor culture in all forms. Tom studied archaeology at Edinburgh and went on to attain his PhD on the Devon tin industry 1450-1750 at Exeter. During his career he has been the first Devon Sites and Monuments Officer for Devon and Dartmoor National Park Archaeologist; the Honorary Editor of The Devonshire Association and its President 2015-16; and chairman of the newly-formed Dartmoor Society until 2019. He forged international connections through research into the three hares symbol, closely associated with Dartmoor but found in many countries.

A spokesperson from The Dartmoor Society said: ‘Tom’s meticulous attention to detail in following planned development on Dartmoor and in seeking to protect hitherto unrecognised or undesignated buildings and archaeological sites has been resolute. Several twentieth-century Dartmoor buildings, such as the Iron Store at Burrator, have been saved due to his diligence. ‘A lifelong interest in Dartmoor and a rare empathy for its extraordinary “ordinary” people, past and present, has been a constant throughout. ‘He was fortunate enough to have been able to speak to the last of the Dartmoor miners and many people with knowledge and experiences of farming and small-scale industrial enterprises going back to the nineteenth century. Through his research he has been

Dr Tom Greeves is pictured receiving the Dartmoor Society awardPicture by Chris Chapman.

able to tie very early photographs and documents to individuals. ‘Tom is a brilliant landscape archaeologist and his knowledge of Dartmoor’s prehistoric and medieval past is second to none, but it is his discovery of the early neolithic stone row on Cut Hill which has caused textbooks to be re-written. His investigations into the earliest ritual monuments have changed our knowledge of this period, not only on Dartmoor but in the whole of the South-west.’

Town to receive rapid EV charging point Moretonhampstead is one of 27 neighbourhoods set to receive state-ofthe-art rapid electrical vehicle charging points. It follows Devon County Council’s highways committees giving the plans the green light. The charging ‘hubs’ are the next phase of a private-sector led scheme that includes Devon County Council, Regen,

Co Cars, ZPN Energy and Gamma Energy. This project is part of a nationwide move to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality - the government has announced a ban on the sales of new cars and vans powered wholly by petrol and diesel from 2030. A key aim is to increase local access to electric vehicle charging points for those areas where people can only park on the street.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for Highways management, said: ‘We know that many are seriously considering buying an electric vehicle and access charging points will be a major factor in their decision. ‘This exciting project is a major part of that and will give residents access to charge points in the heart of their communities.’

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NOTICEBOARD

Substantial fund secured by South West Water A substantial £9-million fund to tackle climate change has been secured by South West Water.

environment by restoring peatland, making it more resilient to climate change.

Awarded by Natural England’s Nature for Climate Peatland Restoration scheme, the funding was secured by South West Water on behalf of the South West Peatland Partnership and will help restore 2,634 hectares of damaged peatland in Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, saving a total of 652,625 tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

The project will support the government’s climate and environment commitments, focussing on helping the rewetting of extensive areas of damaged peatlands.

A partnership of local and regional organisations in the South West, the South West Peatland Partnership secured the vital funding for a fouryear project to protect the natural

The work will reduce carbon emissions, restore the ecosystems that support the recovery of associated wildlife and their habitats. It will also improve the quality and quantity of water leaving the peatlands, protect our historic environment and work with farmers and connect people with nature.

The total cost of the project is £13-million and will see significant match funding through South West Water’s Green Recovery programme, the Duchy of Cornwall and the National Trust. Susan Davy, chief executive officer of South West Water, explained: ‘Urgent action is needed now to tackle the challenge of climate change and protect our planet. We have an opportunity to lead the way in natural carbon sequestration through peatland restoration and this funding will help us achieve that and provides an opportunity to define a legacy here in the South West for protecting our valuable natural environment.’

Welcome relief for Okehampton

The closest toilets for the parish church of Okehampton was over 100 yards away down an unlit path – an offputting trip for any child or elderly adult – so this installation is a welcome relief for the congregation and visitors. The trench for the drain was dug by George Witty in August and the path over has been restored. The digging was a worry for those involved as there were

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tree roots to navigate and the chance of graves or other archeological obstacles. Fortunately no delays were met with and the archeologist gave it all a clear report. Lee Pengelly built the cubicle in the North porch with an electrical control put on the heavy, old oak door from the north aisle. The room is suitable for wheelchair users and has a drop down table for changing nappies. With a non-slip ﬂoor, heating and lighting, it is a welcome addition to the old church building.

The church is now far more welcoming and can easily be used for concerts and children’s events as well as the usual services. The work was estimated to have been completed by the time Oke Links went to press.

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NOTICEBOARD

Keep feeders full throughout winter Crowned Britain’s national bird, the robin is a firm favourite amongst the country’s feathered friends, especially at Christmas time. Associated with Christmas since the 1900s, the relationship between robins and the festive season is inspired by the bright red uniforms of Victorian postmen. As Christmas cards arrived through the post, the link was made between the familiar little bird and the spreading of Christmas cheer, which has led to them featuring on many a Christmas card ever since. As a familiar garden bird to many, robins may be seen all year round, but they are most in need of your help during the winter months when natural food supplies run low, according to the RSPB.

trends in garden bird numbers for more than 40 years, report that robin numbers are in decline by 32% since 1979, as well as many other of the country’s garden favourites. Therefore, the RSPB is urging the public to keep their feeders stocked and water topped up as our feathered friends head to gardens in search of food. Thankfully, the RSPB is on hand to provide top tips on how to attract wildlife to your garden as part of its popular Big Garden Birdwatch survey, which last year saw over a million people take an hour to count their garden birds in the UK’s biggest citizen science survey.

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NOTICEBOARD

Sticklepath Beat their Bounds Around 50 local people gathered at Sticklepath playing field to walk the boundary of Sticklepath Parish in September – the fourth time the boundary had been beaten since Sticklepath Parish was created in the late 1980s. The true boundary follows routes which aren’t designed for walking on – such as the centre of the river Taw, the central reservation of the A30 and the centre of the main road from Whitehouse Services to Sticklepath. Therefore, a slightly alternative route was followed which stuck as close to the boundary as

possible. Landowners gave permission for the walk to cross their land which added an element of adventure to the event – fences were climbed, streams crossed, banks scaled, emus encountered and, as is traditional for Sticklepath, Flying Hedgehogs were spotted in their protected habitat. The walk finished at the playing field where volunteers provided walkers with burgers, a bar and hot drinks. The younger members of the walk

had enough energy to take part in a welly wanging contest while the adults enjoyed recounting tales from the walk. Sticklepath Parish Council expressed thanks to those land owners who granted permission for the walk to cross their land and to the volunteers who helped run the event. The next Sticklepath Beating the Bounds is scheduled to take place in 2028!

Big change for NEDCare There’s been a big change recently in the world of local care charity North East Dartmoor Care (NEDCare). Julia Darby has stepped down as CEO, to run the NEDCare subsidiary Community Care Connect, aimed at helping other communities fill care gaps the way NEDCare has done. Julia co-founded NEDCare back in 2016 along with a small number of

local people, in response to what Julia termed the ‘dire lack’ of regulated care in the local area. Now, having achieved accreditation from the Care Quality Commission in 2017, NEDCare offers over 1,000 hours of care every month. Taking over from Julia at the helm of NEDCare as CEO is Mags Naylor (pictured left). Mags has extensive experience in the charity sector, having worked in a range of organisations for the past 20 years, including nearly seven years as CEO of Exeter Leukemia Fund. In her role with NEDCare, Mags is looking forward to developing services

to put clients’ needs at the forefront, expanding the offering to cater for what the community needs. Mags has personal experience of how hard it is to get appropriate care and sees the need to support people in their homes and to empower them. She sees it as vital to treat the elderly with the dignity and respect they deserve. If you would like to get in touch with Mags, send her an email at mags@ nedcare.org or call NEDCare office on 01647 279211.

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NOTICEBOARD

Bridestowe neighbourhood plan West Devon Borough Council is delighted to see the formal making of the neighbourhood plan for Bridestowe and Sourton. The plan was formally made at West Devon’s full Council meeting in September. It now becomes a statutory part of the Local Development Plan and will have an influence on potential future planning developments in the Bridestowe and Sourton area. A neighbourhood plan plays an important role in shaping the decisions made by the borough council’s planning committee in the years ahead. The communities adopting a neighbourhood plan have their chance to say whether they think such a plan should be adopted; in August, 94.8% of local

people who voted in a referendum supported the plan. Cllr Caroline Mott, ward member for Bridestowe and lead member for built environment, said: ‘Neighbourhood Plans are pieces of work led by their communities that hold real weight and power in the planning process. This plan will give Bridestowe and Sourton the power to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhoods and shape the growth of their communities.’ Cllr Terry Southcott, ward member for Bridestowe, said: ‘It’s really encouraging to see our communities take a real

interest in shaping and protecting their local area for the future. Several of our communities in West Devon have now had neighbourhood plans adopted. It’s great that people are so passionate about their areas.’ To find out more about the Bridestowe and Sourton plan, visit www. neighbourhoodplanning.swdevon.gov. uk/bridestoweandsourton

Vision for West Devon has been agreed West Devon Borough Council unanimously adopted its 20-year vision for the borough. For many months, the borough council has been developing a vision for the future and delivery plans for the next three years, setting out its priorities and the actions it will take.

‘It is important to recognise that the plan itself is not, and will not be perfect, it will not do everything that everyone wants, but it will remain a dynamic working document that can be amended and improved via the HUB advisory

Following a summer of consultation and a recommendation from the Hub Committee, the plan was formally adopted by the council. Cllr Neil Jory Leader of West Devon Borough Council said: ‘The plan itself is a useful and impressive document, framing the themes and objectives that we as a council feel are important and that this plan should inform our work over the coming years. See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

groups, as time goes by and priorities change.’ To read the adopted ‘Plan For West Devon’, visit www.engagement. westdevon.gov.uk/planforwestdevon

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NOTICEBOARD

Holsworthy Travel With travel restrictions easing after a turbulent 18 months, Emma Baker, Managing Director at Holsworthy Travel, is finally noticing an upturn in bookings to foreign climes. Although summer is the traditional time for people to take a well-deserved break, many now look for a winter escape to break up the monotony of the gloomy UK weather. Ski resorts, European city breaks and visits to Christmas markets are all popular choices. The biggest change in the variety of enquiries for Emma has been for skiing and mini-breaks. ‘Short breaks were actually the worst-affected by the pandemic, as people wanted to go away but the cost of testing was not worth it for just a few days,’ said Emma. ‘But as the restrictions have been eased, people are once again looking for a cheeky weekend away. A visit to see the Northern Lights can be an amazing short break and this is the time of year

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where there is more chance that they are visible, so something like this is a great option for Winter. There are also so many cities in the UK and Europe that offer an incredible Christmas market experience. If there is somewhere in particular you would like to visit, please get in touch with us as we’d be delighted to help.’ Having worked in the travel industry for 33 years, Emma highly recommends working with a travel agent that has plenty of experience when looking to book your next holiday. She said: ‘I really had to use my years in the industry to deal with the pandemic, and for 18 months I have sincerely appreciated my extensive travel background. Having knowledge and contacts is so important when amending bookings and ensuring that clients get the best possible service – and ultimately the best holiday.’ Emma continued: ‘At Holsworthy Travel, we always listen to what you hope for, then match this using our experience to

achieve the best value holiday for you. We are a small enthusiastic team who will welcome you if you drop into the office. We will equally be pleased to work with you by phone or email if you prefer. ‘Covid certainly threw us into uncharted territory – we have cancelled and changed a large amount of holidays in the last 18 months, but we are still here. I am so proud of that and am excited to finally look to a future where we can help make people’s travel dreams a reality once again. ‘On that note, demand for Summer 2022 will be high – so many people have missed out on two consecutive Summer holidays and we are already seeing the enquiries and bookings coming through for next year. Whatever your destination or requirements, I’d definitely recommend seeking information early and getting your bookings in place.’

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NOTICEBOARD

Volunteer opportunities in your local community Moretonhampstead-based health charity Wellmoor is focused on empowering whole community well-being. Earlier this month it co-hosted the Community Wellbeing Networking Event at Chagford Jubilee Hall, along with West Devon CVS and the Wis£rmoney Partnership. Wellmoor is currently looking for enthusiastic volunteers to get involved with its current community projects. Wellmoor’s community allotment, devised in collaboration with GPs at the Moretonhampstead Health Centre, has a thriving vegetable garden and wildlife area, the allotment also has the Wellpod, a resource area and equipment store. If you want to learn more about nature and biodiversity, or just want to meet some like-minded people, email Edmund on edmund@ moretonhampstead.com

If being indoors is more your thing, Wellmoor is also recruiting volunteers to become Digital Befrienders, helping isolated members of the local community with online skills. Wellmoor noticed that not being able to perform simple tasks online, such as video calling family or booking doctor’s appointments, was causing increasing isolation amongst elderly residents. Wellmoor is training volunteers to become befrienders to offer one-toone support with technology. For more information call 01647 440775 or email Katie on katie@wellmoor.org.uk

Become a Community Developer… The Diverse Regeneration Company (DR) based in Okehampton, is working with Resonance Community Developers on a social impact fund designed to help communities meet local needs. The fund helps communities create and own income-generating assets, such as affordable homes, sports facilities or renewable energy. The DR company is looking for Devon communities that could benefit from funding to help with pre-development feasibility, land acquisition and construction costs. The fund has been created and managed by Resonance Limited which is an experienced social impact firm,

accredited B-Corp and social enterprise and has been supporting the communityled sector since 2002.

Wellmoor is also looking for volunteers to take part in a two-week trial of a new wellbeing app that is being developed by psychologists at Nottingham Trent University. To get involved, you’ll need to be aged 50+ and have access to a smartphone or tablet. There is a £20 gift voucher as a ‘thank you’ for taking part. Email katie@wellmoor.org.uk for more details.

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CHARITY FOCUS

Okehampton Community Garden A community garden in Okehampton established with the locals at heart is going from strength to strength. Okehampton Community Garden (OCG) is a not-for-profit project based within a field off Fatherford Road that has slowly become a firm favourite with locals. People flock to the setting to either take part in a bit of gardening, socialise or just sit and appreciate the view of Dartmoor National Park. Next year will be the garden’s tenth anniversary and chairman, Linda Harper, is excited for its future. It all started in 2012, new homes had been built in what is now Tappers Meadow – the allotments had been relocated, the adjoining field, also owned by Okehampton United Charities, was put to public vote to decide its

future, and a community garden emerged as the winner. A steering group was set up and led by John and Kay Bickley who were the driving force for two years. When they decided to step back Linda put her name forward and became chairman in 2014, which has been her role ever since. Linda was introduced to the garden by her neighbour within a few weeks of moving to the town in 2013 – she decided to get involved as she could see that the garden had ‘huge potential’.

‘When I became chairman there was a bit of hostility towards the garden, so my first task was to get the community onboard and involved – we put positive energy in and worked hard to

get a good team together and we now have a garden that people love and compliment.’ The site received a huge boost in 2013 when it was granted £10,000 by the Dartmoor National Park, part funding their shed, which is similar to the Tardis on Doctor Who and is vast when you step inside. When the shed was built in 2017, it was basic, and slowly evolved to become a community space for creativity, healing and community connection. The garden has been mostly funded by grants from Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council, Okehampton Town Council, Okehampton Rotary, Okehampton United Charity, West Devon Borough Council and Devon County Council.

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CHARITY FOCUS

These grants have enabled OCG to get all the infrastructure built; electricity in the shed, piped water throughout the garden, the polytunnel, compost loo, and can now boast to having the only outdoor sandpit in Okehampton! Recently the project has received five grants – the National Lottery; Devon Community Fund; two from Devon County Council; and finally the Norman Family Charitable Trust. ‘There are a lot of people who have been hit hard by COVID, so we want to be able to provide outdoor activities and well-being sessions for free using the grants,’ said Linda. Run by a core team of six people and a committed team of regulars, the garden is open for gardening sessions on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm. Members of the public are welcome to come in and enjoy the garden at any time, dogs must be kept on a lead.

grow food. People slowed down a lot during COVID and while taking their permitted daily exercise frequently walked past the garden and have been enthusiastic to come up and get involved. The garden really flourished this past year or so. ‘People just love the project and want to be involved. ‘One of our new regulars says that his physical and mental health has greatly improved since joining the garden, people who live alone really appreciate the social element that the garden offers.’

‘We are blessed to be in such a beautiful location, surrounded by the magnificence of Dartmoor’ said Linda. ‘A lot of the interest is from people who have recently moved to Okehampton and hamlets and they want to meet people and have an outdoor space to See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

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On the group’s website there is a caption that reads: ‘The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul.’ A very fitting quote for a group that has successfully turned a patch of grass into an area much-loved by the community. Lindsay Turpin

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Knowing your blood pressure Keeping your blood pressure within a healthy range is vital in reducing your chances of developing health complications. Blood pressure is responsible for delivering blood throughout the body and returning it to the heart.

What do the readings mean? A blood pressure reading has two numbers. The top number is called the systolic reading, this is the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts (each beat). The bottom number is called the diastolic reading, this is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting in between beats.

Are there any symptoms of high or low blood pressure? High blood pressure rarely has noticeable symptoms. When the blood pressure is too high or too low, this can place extra stress on the heart and sometimes even the brain. A normal blood pressure for a typical healthy person would be 120/80. Having low blood pressure isn’t necessarily dangerous however when blood pressure dips too low some may experience symptoms such as:

•

• • •

There is no defined range for low blood pressure. If your systolic reading falls below 100 then further investigation will need to take place especially if you are experiencing the symptoms above.

•

Exercise regularly

•

Quit smoking

•

Get the sleep you need

High blood pressure (hypertension) is defined when either your systolic reading is above 140 or you diastolic is above 90. If either of these are high and you are not known to have hypertension then we will do what is called a hypertension workup to see if there is an underlying cause as to why your blood pressure is raised. Consistently high blood pressure can lead to heart, brain and kidney damage so that why it is soo important for us and you to help maintain a healthy blood pressure.

•

Limit alcohol

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Find ways to manage stress

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Eat a well-rounded diet

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Maintain a healthy weight

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Reduce salt intake

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Make your home dementia friendly Bluebird Care offers care assistants Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friends training to provide specialised Dementia support to customers. If you have dementia or are caring for someone with dementia, living at home can help you and your loved one feel safe and stay independent. With small changes and support from your Bluebird Care Assistants you can stay safe, active and continue to enjoy your home.

Here are five tips for making your home dementia friendly. Good Lighting Not just natural light getting into the house but additional lighting will help you see clearly and help make sense of where you are.

Safe Floor Area Remove anything that could make you trip – rugs, mats, cables. Dementia may affect how you see colours so bright and contrasting colours may help you see your furniture from the flooring (although stripes and bold patterns may be confusing).

Eating and Drinking Eating and drinking well is very important to your health. Use plates and cups with contrasting colours to your food. You could also use clear plastic containers to store food, so you can see what’s inside.

Memory Issues Place pictures or signs on cupboards and drawers so you know what is inside. Try to keep your important things in the same place.

Keeping active and engaged. A large-faced clock and a calendar can help you keep track of the day and time and the different things you’re doing. Multi-award-winning care company Bluebird Care has opened an office in Tavistock town centre. To find out more about the services that Bluebird Care West Devon offer call 01822 678111 or visit bluebirdcare.co.uk/ west-devon

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Our unique home enabling service is flexible and dementia-friendly. Home-cooked meals, country walks, household admin – and much more… We provide a personalised package of support, helping you or a loved one continue to live safely, independently and happily at home.

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Gentle treatment for all ages, working with your body’s capacity to get well. Support in the resolution of aches, pains and stiffness. Many other conditions may respond positively.

Please telephone for risk assessment screening before booking: Philip Hartnoll DO FSCCO • 07501 636813 56 Grenville Drive, Tavistock PL19 8DP philiphartnoll@yahoo.co.uk • www.hartnollosteopath.co.uk 29

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Care services for your loved ones

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Devon and Cornwall Care Services A community care provider serving the local area since 2002

Personal Care • Sitting Service Meal Preparation • Cleaning Service We are able to work with any type of care no matter how complex We have packages to suit your needs to enable you to stay in the comfort of your own home Free, no obligation initial meeting All managers and Carers are DBS checked and trained to a high standard Tel: 01822 610734

Email: samantha@daccservices.com/pauline@daccservices.com Caring for People in the Community 5 Canal Road, Tavistock PL19 8AR • www.daccservices.com

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BUSINESS

Who we are ‘A local and dynamic accountancy practice with a difference’MBC accountants are a local and dynamic accountancy practice with a difference. Focusing on client service we offer an innovative, proactive and transparent service to all our clients. Twenty years ago, Fiona Rook, founder of MBC accountants, envisaged her practice to be ‘more like a shop than a standard accounting practice’. With a friendly team, pick-and-mix list of service offerings, fixed fee approach and incredible six-week turnaround service for all yearend work, MBC accountants offer all of this.

Our outsourced Finance Department service is becoming more and more popular, offering the perfect solution to busy businesses. We take care of all the standard day to day finance tasks freeing up time for you get on and run your business and achieve the lifestyle you want.

What is up and coming? Making Tax Digital MTDMaking Tax Digital for VAT From April 2022 this is being extended to all VAT registered business regardless of turnover.

software, get it set up for your business, offer training for you to keep your ‘books’ yourself or we can even do it for you. Making Tax Digital for Income Tax The next big thing around the corner is Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. HOT OFF THE PRESS: Making Tax Digital for Income Tax from has been delayed until 2024 (was April 6, 2023). Self-employed businesses and landlords with annual business or property income above £10,000 will need to follow the rules for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax from 2024.

This means:

What we do ‘Paperless practices and cloud accounting software has put us ahead of the game’Paperless practices and cloud accounting software has put us ahead of the game and can reshape your business. Offering real time data, collaborative accounting, access from anywhere (that has internet) and also importantly a better relationship with your accountant. Technology plays a huge role in today’s accounting system and at MBC accountants we drive to improve efficiencies and help your business grow. Together will give you control over your business and open up new opportunities. Need a finance department but too small?

Keeping accounting records electronically Filing quarterly returns to HMRC

Currently only businesses with turnover above £85,000 are included but from April 2022 ALL VAT registered businesses will need to comply

What’s involved? Keeping accounting records electronically

Submitting a final end of period statement with any adjustments to correct the year

We can help with all of this We are based in Okehampton with an office in Exeter. Please get in touch now and see how we could work together. Call our office manager Kassandra on 01837 55482 and visit www. mbcaccountants.co.uk

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Treetops Preschool

and Extended Schools “Nurturing children, giving them the best start”

Providing early years funded and unfunded places for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. Wrap around care for 2-12 year olds Pre-school 2-5 years: Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm Breakfast Club 2-12 years: Mon-Fri 9.30am-Until school starts Afterschool Club 2-12 years: From school end until 6pm Baby & Toddler Group: Tuesdays term time

Pool Hill, Bridestowe, EX20 4EW 01837 861761 www.treetopschildcare.co.uk treetopschildcare@btconnect.com Ofsted registered: EY545515

Tree to ps is se t in a war m in vi ti ng pu rp os e bu ilt ch ild ca re pr ov is io n in th e lo ve ly ru ra l lo ca ti on of Br ides to we ju st ou ts ide of Ok eh am pt on . It ha s be en ru nn in g fo r ov er 43 ye ars of fe ri ng exce lle nt Pres ch oo l ed uc at io n fo r 2-5 ye ar ol ds an d Bre ak fa st, Af te rs ch oo l & Ho lid ay cl ub s fo r 2-12 ye ar ol ds . We al so ha ve a po pu la r Ba by & To dd le r gr ou p th at ru ns on a Tu es day m or ni ng . Ch ild re n at te nd Tree to ps fr om al l ov er th e are a an d ha vi ng de ve lo pe d st ro ng lin ks w it h al l of th e lo ca l sc ho ol s th is en ha nc es th e ab ili t y to pr ov ide a go od ch ild ca re pr ov is io n fo r w he re ev er fam ili es li ve an d ch ild re n go to sc ho ol . Fo r m ore in fo pl e as e do nʻt he si ta te to co nt ac t us or ha ve a lo ok on ou r e as y to us e web si te .

WILL WRITERS SERVICES • 67% of UK adults don’t have a valid Will • Wills aren’t just for the elderly or wealthy • Using a regulated professional to write your Will or help with estate planning will provide both you and your family with Peace of Mind

• WE CAN PREPARE AND REGISTER A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR YOU. • WE WILL VISIT YOU IN YOUR OWN HOME TO PREPARE YOUR WILL FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE. We are happy to take calls to answer any questions you might have about making a Will with no obligation.

BASIC WILL JUST £150 • Your Will allows you to instruct your executors on how to distribute your estate on your death. Why make a Will?

Making a Will is the only way to ensure that your wishes are carried out after your death. Without a valid Will, your property will pass by the Law of Intestacy which may cost more and take longer than if a Will had been made.

Married Couples

Do not assume your spouse will automatically get everything. Under the law of Intestacy, your children can have a right to part of your estate if large enough. Wills made before marriage could be revoked by your marriage unless the Will stated it was still to stand.

Children & Guardians

A Will allows you to state who you would like to look after your children in the event of both parents deaths, otherwise courts will make this decision. You can also specify at what age your children can inherit your assets.

SWW Members are: Regularly Trained Fully Insured Adhere to the SWW code of practice Part of the leading self-regulatory body for Professional Estate Planners with over 1,700 members in the UK, Europe, Asia & Africa

Will Writers Services are your Local Independent SWW Member, covering Cornwall & Devon

Call us on 01579 383892 or 07979 850128 visit www.willwritersservices.co.uk

IF YOU ARE ISOLATING I AM HAPPY TO TAKE INSTRUCTIONS/DISCUSS YOUR OPTIONS VIA PHONE OR ZOOM. When I do visit full appropriate care is taken with PPE.

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EDUCATION

Adult Learning Courses and Workshops at RHS Rosemoor Throughout the year, RHS Rosemoor runs a wide range of courses and workshops to encourage and inspire you in your garden, to enable you to indulge in a favourite skill or hobby or try something new. There are courses across four areas: Horticulture and gardens; traditional crafts; art and creative; and photography. There are also courses run by exhibiting artists in the Peter Buckley Learning Centre Exhibition room. All of the courses have some key foundations – horticulture, well-being and sustainability. Following the launch of the RHS Sustainability Strategy in September 2021, the RHS is keen to incorporate sustainability across all their activities, and as a horticultural charity, sharing knowledge and enthusiasm for gardens and gardening is at the heart of everything it does. The horticulture and gardens section draws on the huge gardening knowledge and skills of the team at RHS Rosemoor and visiting experts. Some general courses cover the essential annual tasks in the garden, using Rosemoor as an outdoor classroom. The popular A Year in Your Garden – Spring/Summer/Autumn/Winter sessions and Beginners Gardening Basics days cover many seasonal and topical garden tasks. Other courses cover more specialist areas such as pruning roses and vegetable growing, and wildlife subjects such as bats and wildflower meadows. In the traditional crafts section you will find opportunities for willow weaving from fun garden sculpture to traditional

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basketry techniques from trugs to Zarzo. There are also whittling courses and some festive foliage workshops leading up to Christmas. Art and creative workshops offer a huge range of different activities. RHS Rosemoor is an ideal setting for outdoor drawing days and the plants are a great source of inspiration for botanical painting workshop, led by local and national artists including RHS Gold Medalists. felting, embroidery and mosaic making workshops also embrace the garden and horticulture theme, completing a rich and varied creative programme. Finally, for all the budding photographers out there, RHS Rosemoor is a perfect location for capturing some beautiful images, whether you are a new to photography or looking to improve your skills. There are workshops from beginners photography to mastering flower photography. Some of the photography courses take place in the late afternoon / evening to take advantage of the special evening light. The 2022 Adult Learning Courses and Workshops programme will be launched on November 19, 2021 and courses and workshops will be available to book online from this time at: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on To keep up to date with courses and workshop activity at RHS Rosemoor sign up to the adult learning email list at www.rhs. org.uk/education-learning/courses-workshops

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f 33

P A LE

e h t ke

Discover your new career with an Access to Higher Education Diploma. Exeter College students continue to take the leap into the career of their dreams by successfully completing Access to Higher Education Diplomas. Hugely popular Access courses are providing adults with a route to Higher Education and further study at university for those who might lack certain qualifications but still wish to pursue studies at degree level. Daniel Smith (pictured) chose the Access to Science (Physics and Maths) course at Exeter College last year as a preferred option to A Levels. Working on a portfolio over the course of a year appealed to him more than end of year exams. He is now studying Radiography at UWE which is something he has always wanted to do. Daniel said, “I would recommend Exeter College. It has been brilliant. The teaching has been excellent with loads of support.” Will Ekins had been out of education for 10 years before he started Exeter College’s Access to Science (Physics and Maths) course. Studying during the pandemic, Will described the workload as manageable and said there was regular communication between teachers and students. He said, “The teaching was really personal; it was easy to talk to our teachers.” In order to make the transition back to education as simple as possible for adult learners, the college has a team of dedicated specialist Adult Advisers who are trained in providing advice and guidance on all aspects of life at Exeter College, including study-related queries and signposting to support around travel and financial assistance. Applications are now open for a wide range of Access to Higher Education Diplomas at Exeter College, for entry in September 2022. Choose from a range of Access to HE Diplomas, including: Art and Design, Business, Computing, Healthcare, Humanities, Social Science and Science. Find out more and apply at www.exe-coll.ac.uk/access. For more information, and to speak with an Adult Adviser, come along to our next Open Event. Register online to secure your place www.exe-coll.ac.uk/open.

Find out more and apply at

exe-coll.ac.uk/access

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Looking for a feeling of family and belonging? We can offer: • A daily programme of activities and entertainment • Nutritious home cooked foods and regular themed menus • Easily accessed lakes, natural meadows and woodland • Treatment room for hairdressing, chiropody, manicures, pedicures and massage • Wireless internet access for everyone • CQC Rated GOOD

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SwanTours, for when it’s more than just the destination that matters. Please call 01805 603706 to request a brochure or visit our website www.swantours.co.uk

Home Collection | More Leg Room | 3-5 Star Hotels | Half Board See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

GARDENING

Simple lighting of old oak. Credit: Guy Harrop.

The Magic of Garden Lighting Garden lighting isn’t just for Christmas. . . Many of us enjoy decorative lighting in the house during the festive period, but lighting in the garden looks good all year. There is a huge range of lights available, to give any number of effects, from up-lighting specimen trees to casting dramatic shadows on walls and fences to stylish lighting on steps and paths and for seating areas. If you are thinking of redesigning or making alterations to your garden, it is best not to leave plans for the lighting until after the hard landscaping has been completed – it is much easier to install at the build stage. You might also want to consider planting specimens that would make good subjects for night time focal points such as a multi-stemmed silver birch or the coloured culms of bamboo. Deciding on exactly what to light can cause a lot of head-scratching, so a good way to start is by walking around

the garden with a floodlight to see what effects you can create. Shine it into the canopy of a tree, down onto a sculpture or water feature; try different angles, different wattages and even colours. In a small garden especially, keep it simple. Just a string of fairy lights or a few lanterns can have a surprisingly striking effect. The internet is a useful source of information and inspiration on effects and design ideas. Probably the most important considerations when designing your outside lighting is the environment, wildlife and your neighbours. Studies have shown that bats in particular are disturbed by bright bluish white lights and may travel for miles out of their way to avoid them, using up valuable energy reserves; so it is important to choose lights coloured yellowish white through red. To help our bats, make sure your security PIR lights are correctly set up.

They should go off within two minutes of triggering and the sensitivity should be set so that they are only triggered by an intruder and not by a small animal or even the bats themselves. Use anti-glare shields to reduce upward light spill; moths navigate by light sources such as the moon and may become disorientated by artificial lights. Lighting is most effective when kept localised; an adjustable light over the BBQ area is much more stylish than one powerful floodlight over the whole of the back of the house. Don’t forget that a little light goes a long way; a lamp as low as a 3w LED is surprisingly bright at night as it does not have to compete with daylight. These low energy LED lamps have a low carbon rating helping to reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint.

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GARDENING

Top Tips for November and December To gain inspiration, visit Rosemoor’s Glow which is now an established event in the calendar. Starting on November 18, 2021 will see our longest trail yet and will be extended through the Lower Woodland Walk. Selected sculptures on the sculpture trail, trees, shrubs and water features will all be illuminated to magical effect. For details visit rhs.org.uk/rosemoor or phone 0845 2658072. Please book early to avoid disappointment as entry is by prebooked tickets only. To prevent waterlogging in your pots from the winter rains, raise them up onto pot feet. Wind rock can be a problem with roses, so prune them now before windy weather becomes more frequent. Now is a good time to plant tulip bulbs. There is such a huge variety to choose from, but try and keep to just one or two colours to make a real impact.

Light reflections in water add a magical effect. Credit: Guy Harrop

November is also a good time to plant out winger bedding, so if you have not sown your own seeds, visit a garden centre soon, before all the best plants have been snapped up. Winter moth on fruit trees can cause a lot of damage but can be effectively controlled with grease bands around the trunk and tree stake (if present) to intercept the wingless females. Now is the time to prune open-grown apples and pears (but not those trained against walls which should be done in August)

Shelia Dearing, RHS Rosemoor Sheila Dearing RHS Rosemoor

Planting Tulip bulbs. Credit: Tim Sandall

Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding. There is still plenty of time to plant bare root deciduous trees and hedges or to transplant any trees and shrubs that need to be moved. House plants do not need as much watering at this time of year, so water carefully.

Pansies as winter bedding. Credit: Carol Sheppard.

ALL GARDENING & TREE WORK UNDERTAKEN

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ENDSLEIGH GARDENS NURSERY

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Follow the brown signs to Endsleigh House and Gardens from Milton Abbot

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Here’s what our customers say...

We have been working with the Links magazine team now for many years and have always received top levels of service. Simon Gibbons, Westcountry Homes Online I have had a great response from advertising in Links Magazines and thoroughly enjoy the quality of the magazine, varied articles and information enclosed! Gemma Harvey Painter & Decorator

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Working from home? Need a shelter for your car? Looking for somewhere to enjoy that hobby or store all your tools? Look no further. At Shields Buildings, we’ve got 30 years’ experience in handcrafting quality bespoke timber buildings, giving you the exact space you want, and a special addition to your home.

Call us now to discuss your requirements, or visit our display site, open all day, every day. de Bathe Farm, North Tawton, Devon EX20 2BE

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FINANCE

A new beginning for Davidsons IFA For 20 years now we have been arranging mortgages, life assurance, pensions and investments for anyone who needs our help. We have picked funds, built portfolios and created investments with an enviable track record. I believe we have brought together some of the best mortgage and financial advisers in the industry and as we have grown as an organisation, we have retained our soul. Over the last few years I have been working on ways to continue business growth. All successful businesses face challenges at times and we are no exception...the most important thing is to remember who you are, what you do and why you have been successful up to that point. In our case, being honest with people about what they need and how we can help is what really matters. This includes being honest with ourselves about our changing needs. With an increasing number of clients enjoying our service, we need to make sure we can continue to handle increased demand effectively, without losing sight of what’s right for the client. As a result of these deliberations, we (Davidsons) have now merged with Courtiers, a larger firm that can provide us with all the support we need to continue to grow. That means

additional admin support here in our Okehampton office, and it also means access to investment knowledge, funds, processes and a first-rate investment platform that will really benefit our clients. Building a clear path ahead, while offering lower fees to clients and potentially better returns makes complete sense. And through all these exciting developments, the team here in Okehampton will remain in place while we continue to provide access to financial advice for years to come. I am genuinely proud to have founded and run a business in Okehampton for the last 20 years. We have overcome many challenges, especially recently, and found them outweighed by the rewards that have followed. Helping local people with their finances is not a bad way to earn a living. Now I am looking forward to our next chapter and growing the business over the next few years. Over the coming months you will see our offices on Fore Street transform to reflect our success to date. Everything will change apart from the warm welcomes, friendly faces and personal service that we’ll continue to proudly deliver. Craig Davidson Private Client Manger

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SPORT

Flyers Rise to the Challenge Okehampton Flyers Gym, Trampoline and DMT Club has risen the ranks at regional and national events. The inclusive club practises several gymnastics disciplines from high performance trampoline, to double mini trampoline (DMT) and tumbling. Preschool gymnastics, general gymnastics (bar, vault, beam and floor), Free-G (parkour, tricking and freerunning) and cheerleading round out a varied programme for all age groups. Since first entering British Gymnastics (BG) competitions in 2017, the club has achieved one FIG national medal, 18 NDP national medals including 10 gold, more than 50 South West medals and 22 BSGA schools regional, zonal and national medals, with some gymnasts achieving 9.0 to 9.9 scores at regional and national events.

Head coach Vicki Pritchard is a South West Squad coach and one of only 12 coaches selected across the country to qualify as a BG Performance Coach in trampoline in 2019. ‘Local support has been fantastic with generous donations from Okehampton United Charities, the Inner Wheel of Okehampton, the Rotary Club of Okehampton, Manor House Hotel and Sport England adding to fundraising from club members,’ said Vicki. Okehampton Flyers is building a great team of coaches and volunteers including students from Okehampton College: ‘We’re continually raising money for more coaches to qualify, and we’re grateful for all of the help from parents and other volunteers,’ she added.

The club raised approximately £35,000 for new equipment over the last few years and it is now preparing for the upcoming season of British Gymnastics events including national Spring Cup competitions. Squad trials for boys and girls of 4 to 8 year olds in trampoline and tumbling are being held. For more information email Vicki at vicki.pritchard@ okehamptonflyers.org.uk Training sessions are based at Parklands Leisure Centre and at Okehampton College.

Abby is County Champion Abby Turner, a member of Okehampton Golf Club, has become Devon Women’s County Champion for the second time. After 27 holes of scratch golf at East Devon Golf Club Abby was through to the semi-finals. Abby beat Emily Morey (East Devon) in the morning to progress to the final against Lauren McGinnis (Churston). After a nail biting final Abby won the Championship 3 & 2. Abby has been a member of the Devon

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

County first team since 2012 and she was also County Champion in 2014. Despite working full time and being mother to 11-year-old Harry, Abby is still able to keep the Okehampton Golf Club flag flying by playing championship golf. Golf within the ladies’ section of Okehampton is at an all time high in their centenary year. The section would welcome any new ladies who would like to join, both beginners or more experienced players.

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FARMING NEWS

Showers turn to downpours Warm weather a distant memory for Stuart Luxton Hello again. I’m sat here writing this on a very wet Sunday afternoon. The forecast wasn’t too bad but the Okehampton showers seem to have merged into a torrential downpour. I went out with some friends on a bike ride this morning on which I got soaked to the skin, maybe shorts weren’t the most sensible attire, and it hasn’t really relented much since then. The lovely dry warm September is already a distant memory. We still have the maize to harvest, although it’s nearly ready to cut. If we get the weather it will be easily the earliest we have ever cut it. Our wheat is safely in storage. This year was a really good crop of grain and straw, a reflection of the great growing weather we experienced for most of the summer. There are about 20 cows left to calve, hopefully we don’t have to help too many, Aberdeen Angus are a really easy calving breed. The one I’m calving in the photo just wouldn’t get on with it. I decided to calve her when there was some respite from the monsoon and put her in the shed with her new baby. It was probably that she just didn’t want to lie down on the wet land to have her baby, let’s face it who would? The mother of the calf is a lovely young cow, the baby was male. If all goes well the baby will be sold as a young breeding bull in the spring of 2023. The seasons seem to come round so fast now, I cant believe that we are once again preparing the ewes to see the rams – before we know it Christmas will have come and gone and it will be lambing time. Much fuss has been made in the news about problems in the UK food supply chain, the slaughter industry and our transport network problems have lead to scaremongering about food shortages. At the shop we have had phone calls from customers who are already worried about their Christmas dinner. In reality because most of our products are either home produced or local we are pretty much unaffected by these

problems. Don’t worry we will have everything you need for the festive season. Whilst discussing the meat supply industry a friend told me that the supermarkets are getting round the problem by importing more foreign meat. This doesn’t surprise me. Supermarkets look after themselves and in the long run the only losers will be British farmers. I think the message here is make sure you buy British. The café since reopening has been very busy, sometimes too busy. We had to temporarily suspend the Sunday opening because the staff were being spread too thin. We advertised and found some great new additions to our lovely team. Once we have everyone up to speed opening the café on Sunday will recommence in early November. I hope the rest of the autumn isn’t too wet, next time I write it will be nearing Christmas… Stuart Luxton

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WHAT’S ON

December 2

Edwardian Evening Okehampton’s popular Edwardian Evening is set to return to the town’s streets on Thursday, December 2.

can shop and enjoy what this town has to offer and also enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.’

After having to cancel the event in 2020 due to COVID restrictions, the late night shopping extravaganza is hoped to draw people back into the town for a night filled with festive fun and a party-like atmosphere.

The light switch on at 6pm will this year include new Christmas lights. Everything Okehampton took over the responsibility for the lights when Okehampton Chamber of Trade ceased but the outside lights needed replacing due to weather damage. The new ones have been purchased thanks to a considerable donation from Miller Town and Country Estate Agents and Okehampton United Charities.

Organised by Everything Okehampton the evening will start with light switch on at 6pm, followed by the ‘Mayors 7 Carols at 7pm’ by St James’ Church which will this year include a large choir and a band. There will also be family entertainment from Entertaining Different. Christine Marsh, chairperson of Everything Okehampton, says that there will be something for everyone throughout the town on the night: ‘It will be a lovely event where visitors

Mish Flexman also came up with a creative idea to raise money by inviting businesses to advertise on a pack of playing cards which will be on sale for Christmas presents or as stocking fillers. The money made from that will all go to the Christmas lights. For information on the programme of events, see Everything Okehampton’s noticeboard outside Donald’s Menswear or check the group’s Facebook page. If anyone is interested or wants to participate in Edwardian Evening then email everythingokehampton@ gmail.com

We look forward to s ing you again soon!

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WHAT’S ON

December 5

RHS Rosemoor Santa Run Children’s Hospice South West’s spectacular ‘Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle’ will be returning to RHS Garden Rosemoor this December. More than 400 people took part in the last festive 2k fun run around the gardens near Great Torrington in 2019, raising nearly £15,000 in support of the charity’s Little Bridge House children’s hospice in Fremington. And after being held virtually last year due to the pandemic, organisers hope an army of fun runners and walkers will be back at Rosemoor raising cheer in their festive gear on Sunday, December 5. ‘We’re excited to be bringing our flagship fundraising event back to beautiful Rosemoor in our 30th anniversary year,’ said CHSW fundraiser Emma Perry. ‘Our supporters did us proud during the pandemic, raising thousands of pounds across the region by taking part in virtual Santa runs with their families and friends at home. ‘And while people will still be able to do a Santa run at home if they’d prefer to, we hope as many people will join us at Rosemoor as possible.

‘Our festive, fun 2k course is suitable for all ages and abilities and there will be plenty of festive treats to enjoy along the way,’ added Emma.

a snowman or twinkle like a Christmas tree, we can’t wait to see everyone’s festive outfits – there will be prizes for the best!

Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle will be one of the charity’s first physical fundraising events for nearly two years. To enable social distancing in the event village and on the start line, there will be two start times at 11.30am and 2pm.

‘There will also be a Santa’s grotto, making it a brilliant festive family day out – the perfect way to get everyone in the mood for Christmas and help raise a few pounds for your local children’s hospice.’

Santa suits are not being provided to help reduce the impact on the environment, and the registration fee has been reduced to £10 per adult, £5 per child (under twos are free).

CHSW, which was founded in 1991 and is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, supports more than 500 families across the South West. The charity provides respite, emergency, end-of-life and bereavement care and support for the whole family at Little Bridge House and its other two hospices in St Austell and Bristol.

‘People really enjoyed the freestyle element of last year’s virtual event so we’re encouraging people to do the same at Rosemoor and be as creative as they like with their own festive costumes,’ said Emma.

To sign up visit www.chsw.org.uk/ santas

‘Whether you want to sleigh it like Santa, rock it like Rudolph, sock it like

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WHAT’S ON

November 21, 11am to 4pm

Green Attic - Christmas Market ‘If someone had said to us we would start a new business in spring 2021, after three lockdowns, we would have called them mad. Earlier this year we started The Green Attic in Chagford. We carefully source preloved items all throughout Devon, Somerset and Cornwall and up-cycle them when needed,’ said Susan Breedijk, together with Sara Martinez owner of the Green Attic.

‘I think it is because we do something we really love doing and that shows’, adds Sara, who also runs the successful cafe The Old Forge. ‘Susan and I are enjoying the treasure hunt, to look for unusual items, for items we love ourselves.’ They sell items at markets, to private people and in pop-ups. Sometimes people also ask them to decorate their kitchen or other rooms, and they will look for items with that space in mind.

They also invite local makers, up-cyclers and small businesses to join them during quarterly pop-ups. The second one takes place on Sunday, November 21 from 11am to 4pm in Endecott House in the high street of Chagford. ‘It will be a delightful Christmas market, with local stall holders, with things on offer to make a lovely Christmas’, said Sara and Susan.

November 27

Christmas in Moretonhampstead Planning is well under way for this year’s Christmas celebrations. The switch on event will start at 5.30pm on Saturday, November 27. Be sure to arrive promptly to see Father Christmas arrive in his carriage. Children can visit him in his Grotto where they can tell him what they want for Christmas and if they’ve been good, receive a present. Whilst waiting for the 6.30pm switch on, you will be able to peruse the stalls, enjoy the entertainment and sample the Christmassy goodies.

After the switch on event, we are hoping for performances from the local school choir and local musicians. The stalls will stay open until 8.30pm. The entertainment doesn’t end there; MED Theatre is hosting a Ceilidh in the Parish Hall, doors open at 8pm ready to start the Ceilidh at 8.30pm. More information can be found at www.medtheatre.co.uk We are so looking forward to this event and hope it signals the start of a brighter year ahead. The Parish Council wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year!

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WHAT’S ON

November 14

Remembrance Sunday Remembrance Sunday services will be happening this year, according to the Devon section of the Royal British Legion. But before attending, it is advised that people check with their local town or village representatives for their protocol and these as plans could change last minute due to COVID. In Okehampton it is hoped that an external service will be held around the

war memorial at All Saints Church. It is also hoped that a scaled back parade will go ahead with representatives from each of the usual groups and organisations in attendance rather than the large numbers that usually attend. ‘This is to enable social distancing in case coronavirus infections are rising in the area – and to safely monitor the numbers that can be safely accommodated in the churchyard.’

Regional sponsor:

Join us at RHS Garden Rosemoor on Sunday 5 December 2021 Sign up today www.chsw.org.uk/santas Or take part virtually, anywhere!

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Raise festive cheer in your Christmas gear!

WHAT’S ON

December 11, 2pm to 5pm

Sampford Courtenay Christmas cheer For the third year running a team of Sampford Courtenay residents have organised some ‘Christmas Cheer’ for the local residents and children to enjoy. As a small child, organiser Marion was allergic to Christmas Trees, so her parents used to create a Christmas Grotto for Santa to leave his presents instead. Marion continued this tradition with her own children, grandchildren and their friends. Each year Marion produces a tableau of knitted characters from a popular children’s book or film, together with an associated wooden

creation from her partner, Bill. In 2019, her friend, Michele, persuaded Marion that all these tableau would make a fantastic basis to a Christmas Wonderland in Sampford Courtenay Village Hall for children to admire while they queued to meet Santa himself. Last year, almost 60 children and their parents took their Covid safe slots to enjoy the Christmas Cheer. Many local parents likening it to the visits they made as children to see Santa at Waltons in Exeter.

If you would like to book your slot for this year contact Marion on 01837 82285 or email marion174@btinternet. com

Memory Tree of Lights 2021 Okehampton and District Lions Club is inviting members of the public to take part in its Memory Tree of Lights 2021. At Christmas 2020, Okehampton and District Lions Club erected a Christmas tree in Red Lion Yard, outside the entrance to The Charter Hall and it was called the ‘Lions Memory Tree of Lights’. People are invited to fill in the form where they can name those who are no longer with us and who they wish to have remembered and return with a

2021

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donation towards the tree of lights. The Lions will share any profit made with Everything Okehampton, which will put the money towards the town’s Christmas lights. Applications will be welcome until December 19. To view and download the form, visit www.okehamptonlions.org.uk/public/ Trees_of_Light_Application_Form.pdf

You’ll enjoy browsing around 100s of stalls displaying 1000s of new lines and amazing seasonal offers! Meet dozens of talented local craftspeople. A diverse mix of importers, manufacturers and wholesalers with exciting new ranges. Fabulous fashions, accessories and jewellery. Superb food & drink area with scrummy puddings, confectionery, liqueurs ... Gadgets, hobbies, sports, toys and household goods. Entertainment. Gifts you won’t find on the high street!

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Tickets available online and also at the door (Cash only) Admission £4, Seniors £3, 16 and under free. Contact us for group bookings.

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WHAT’S ON LISTINGS

November 6

Belstone Craft Fair The ever-popular Belstone Craft Fair is back, after last year’s break during lockdown, with many regular and new exhibitors. Many visitors use this fair as the start of their Christmas shopping and a chance to buy one or two of those ‘special’ presents; and what a choice there is, this year – slate, ceramics, jewellery,

Regulars Chagford Christmas shopping Late night shopping will be held in Chagford for the first three Thursdays of December. All shops, cafes and pubs are open, entertainment on the streets, carol singers, Christmas parade, Father Christmas etc. Look out for social media posts closer to the time.

Okehampton Library’s regular events have been relaunched: Bounce & Rhyme Tuesdays, 10am to 10.20am and 11am to 11.20am. Booking essential whilst numbers are limited Knit & Natter Tuesdays, 1.30pm to 2.30pm

basketry, wooden goods, textiles, leather work, photographs, prints and paintings to name but a few! With 15 stalls to choose from, there’s bound to be something for everyone – and maybe a treat for yourself too!

cold drinks, delicious homemade soup, cakes and ploughman’s lunches, on sale all day. The Belstone Craft Fair takes place on Saturday, November 6 from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Easy parking, opposite the hall, and all proceeds to hall funds. All Covid-safe precautions, at the time, will be observed.

While you are browsing, if you feel a little peckish, you can stop and enjoy a snack. Choose from the range of hot and

Duplo Storytime Wednesdays, 9.30am to 10.15am

buttling@librariesunlimited.org.uk Book online: librariesevolve.org.uk/ the-lost-librarian

Lego Builders Saturdays, 10.30am to 11.30am

November 13

November

Sampford Courtenay Countryfile Children in Need Ramble.

November 13 to 27

Put the date in your diary and come and enjoy a guided ramble around one of the lovely parish footpaths – try our Autumn Scavenger Hunt while you walk. More details contact 01837 82285 or email SCPCClerk@aol.com

The Lost Librarian. Okehampton Library. 60 minutes, 10 books, 1 Mystery. Come and solve the mystery of The Lost Librarian, an escape room for inquisitive explorers of all ages.

November 26

(12+ guidance, younger audiences must be accompanied by an adult)

Proper Job fashion show

£12 per group - six people of less. Please note venue is on first floor - if you have any access requirements contact Zoe at Evolve prior to booking. zoe.

Proper Job is hosting an Autumn/Winter fashion show on Friday, November 26 at the Jubilee Hall, Chagford. Showcasing the best preloved and vintage looks from Uptown and the

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WHAT’S ON LISTINGS

Resource Centre by lovely local models, the event will be held from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

are £10 and are available from www.tavimtc.co.uk or by calling 01752 795461.

There will be rails of wonderful women’s and men’s clothing, shoes and accessories, including many designer and top named brands for sale. All are invited for an evening of Prosecco, fashion and shopping.

November 27

The event starts at 7.30pm, tickets are £10 (to include first drink), via Eventbrite or on the door. Please bring cash for purchases.

November 20 Come, buy and chat at Sampford Courtenay Village Hall on Saturday, November 20 from 10.30am to 11.30am There will be cake and produce stalls, local producers’ stalls, bring and buy, book exchange, raffle and tea / coffee! Please bring donations of cakes and produce to the hall from 9.30am. All proceeds are in aid of the village hall roof appeal.

November 13 Tavistock Musical Theatre Company Tavistock Musical Theatre Company is holding a fundraising concert at Tavistock Town Hall on Saturday, November 13. ‘All Together Now!’ is a global event celebrating local theatre. Performances will be held at 4pm and 7.30pm. Tickets

The Inner Wheel Club of Okehampton is holding a coffee morning in the Charter Hall, Okehampton, on Saturday, November 27 from 10am to noon. All the usual stalls will on offer, plus Christmas goodies. All proceeds will go to Local Charities. We look forward to seeing you there.

December December 9, 10.30am to 11.30am Okehampton Library. Christmas Crafts and Stories for Under 5s. Join us for a festive craft and story. Suitable for children under 5 and their parents/carers. Free activity, donations welcome.

December 13 to 18 Christmas Craft Table for children. Call in any time during our opening hours to get creative at our festive craft table, suitable for children 5+ and their parents/carers. Free activity, donations welcome.

December 18 One of the first live music events of the festive season will be the return of Mount Kelly Choral Society to St Eustachius’ Church on Saturday,

December 18 for their annual Christmas Concert. This year’s programme will include Vivaldi’s exuberant Gloria with full orchestra and professional soloists plus a varied programme of Christmas music including the chance to sing along with some well know favourites.

New Year history talks programme In October the Chagford Local History Society launches its new programme of talks, from Autumn 2021 to Spring 2022. Distinguished speakers will present a wide range of topics about Devon’s past: January 27: John Mather: The whetstone mines in the Blackdown Hills February 24: Emma Cunis: Ancient tracks on Dartmoor March 31: Mark Hailwood: The alehouse in early modern Devon April 28: Todd Gray: Devon’s last slave owners, 1834 May 26: Janet Tall: The Acland family – bringing agriculture to schools All talks are held at Endecott House (next to the Tree Crowns), starting at 7.30 pm. Free entry for members, nonmembers most welcome at the modest charge of £4 per talk. For more information visit www.chagfordlocalhistorysociety.org.uk

Autumn Jazz Event

Sunday 28th November Join us for a fantastic Lunch accompanied by Jazz music from Dart Valley Stompers Always a popular event so book early to get a place. Three Course Lunch served from 12.00 noon to 2.00pm. £39.50 per person

A Family Run Hideaway in Devon 52

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MUSIC AND ART

New art project A new Arts Council funded Craft for All project will start in Okehampton in the spring, led by experienced art tutors from West Devon Art Workshops. Craft for All is aimed at adults who are at risk of social isolation and is also running in Tavistock.

For each course there with also be two video classes and additional tools/ equipment for loan should face to face sessions need to be suspended, or a participant need to self-isolate. Guided by a skilled tutor, participants would:

It will be an opportunity to make new friends in a natural way, develop confidence through learning a new skill and engage with the wider community through applying their new skills to community events, such as willow and tissue constructions for the lantern procession.

• Be part of a group learning about new techniques, stimulating minds and promoting camaraderie;

Andy Cairns, project leader, said: ‘The Craft for All project plans to build on the success of our Art for All project, by reaching socially isolated people who may lack confidence to try ‘art’ but would be inspired by learning a specific craft skill. There will be an opportunity at the end of each course to take part in a community event, coordinated with other local organisations.

• Have personalised learning support to help develop confidence in their abilities and ideas;

‘We intend to run eight courses of eight sessions each, split between Tavistock and Okehampton. Sessions will be three hours long.’

• Help plan future activities

The first four sessions of each course will be skill building, the other sessions will focus on developing outcomes for community events.

• Be able to make friendships at a natural pace, with informal conversations about their work as a catalyst;

• Engage in group discussions of work where positive feedback would help boost self-esteem and encourage participation

The lantern was created by a participant in a pilot project this year involving residents of Yelverton and surrounding villages, where lanterns were displayed in shop windows as lockdown eased and shops reopened at the end of Easter.

• Make a positive contribution to their local community

the Tavistock Young Artists Exhibition in 2016, Yelverton Art Festival as well as numerous classes and one off workshops. They run a sculpture studio in the Old Ropeworks, Lakeside, Tavistock and helped establish Tavistock Community Printing Group.

West Devon Art Workshops, a community interest company, has been involved in several local projects over the last six years, including a textile hanging for the Okehampton Medical Centre, a mosaic project at Lamerton Primary School, a temporary sculpture trail at Burrator Reservoir,

See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

For more information, contact West Devon Art Workshops by email on westdevonartworkshops@gmail.co.uk or phone 07724 153381.

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MUSIC AND ART

MED Theatre MED Theatre has launched a poetry and creative writing competition in partnership with The River Teign Restoration Project following the success of its latest outdoor play Salmon. Whether you have a passion for nature or interest in creative writing, the local arts organisation is inviting writers of all levels to submit their entries before February 1. For further guidelines see www.medtheatre.co.uk/projects/ our-river MED Theatre will be showcasing the talent of its very own ‘Wild Nights Young Company’ in this year’s Dartfest, a festival of new writing by young people in the Dartmoor area. Festival offerings include performances of

poetry, movement, short plays and mime. The event will take place over two days, on Saturday, November 20 at 7.30pm and Sunday, November 21 at 11am. Tickets available via eventbrite on the MED Theatre website: www. medtheatre.co.uk On a more festive note, MED Theatre’s Christmas Ceilidh will take place in Moretonhampstead Parish Hall after the Christmas lights switch-on event on Saturday, November 27. There will be a bar, food, raffle, and an evening of Ceilidh dancing led by David Faulkner with musical accompaniment from The Community Folk Orchestra. Proceeds will contribute towards MED Theatre’s drama, playwriting and filmmaking groups which are delivered free

of charge to young people across the Dartmoor area. More information about the event will be available soon on the MED Theatre website and across its social media. Towards the end of the year, MED Theatre will be recruiting a multigenerational community cast for their next touring production. The play will be performed in March, and will take a closer look at moorland ‘peat’, its importance as a wildlife haven and relationship to the climate crisis. If you are interested in finding out more about this performance opportunity contact MED Theatre via education officer Helen Gilbert on 01647 441356 or helengilbert@medtheatre.co.uk.

Choirs and orchestras together again Folk songs and tunes from Devon and beyond have been filling the air over Okehampton as choirs and orchestras get together again. After 18 months away, Wren Music’s folk groups have resumed their inperson music making and they are welcoming new people every week. When lockdown came way back in March 2020, folk arts charity Wren Music had to suspend its 11 music making groups across Devon. Wren swiftly took its groups online and

throughout the pandemic missed only two weeks of regular rehearsals. With restrictions now eased, singers and players have come back together and are now preparing for their winter concerts! Wren Music’s choirs and orchestras are open to anyone. The folk tradition passes songs across communities and down generations orally. Historically these songs were not written down and simply learnt by ear – much like how many of us still learn songs like nursery rhymes. Wren Music continues

this tradition by encouraging their members to learn by ear, and develop a folk style. This is a great challenge for seasoned musicians who are used to music notation (although it is provided where wanted) as well as making the groups really accessible to anyone new to making music. With professional musicians leading community folk choirs, folk orchestras, and specialist fiddle and mandolin orchestras, Wren Music continues to open doors for all of us to make music together.

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FOOD & DRINK

Dave Anning explains how to shop for your festive treat Here are some suggestions to make shopping for your festive wines a treat – an enjoyable experience rather than a chore! Firstly, focus on quality rather than quantity. Plenty of deals offer you lots of wine, but unless you’re entertaining large numbers, Christmas is an opportunity to treat yourself to something special. Next, get some advice! Paying more doesn’t mean you’ll enjoy the wine more. You can get really good wine for quite reasonable money. More expensive wines are often an acquired taste – aged Bordeaux is prized for flavours of leather and tobacco, so if you like fruity vibrant wine, buying a £50 bottle of Bordeaux could be a major disappointment! Buying a few bottles you really enjoy can even be cheaper if the ’cheap’ offers end up forgotten in your cupboard. Choosing wines to pair with your Christmas dinner and festive meals can be intimidating. You should pair wine

with the strongest food flavour, but faced with meats, gravies, stuffing and sauces all on one plate, where do you start? Tell your wine merchant what you’re eating and they’ll explain why some wines work better with some foods. At the very least you’ll learn how to avoid clashes – we’ve all had a dry red wine with sweet food at some time and regretted it! Next, consider a mixed case – but make sure it’s not just wines being offloaded by calling it a Christmas case! The festive period is essentially feasting with snacks and treats between meals – a proper Christmas mixed case will cater for the meals, but also for the sweets and snacks. A good fizz is a must of course, but don’t be pressured into Champagne! There are top quality alternatives from around the world – especially England! The south coast of England is now a premium environment for growing the grapes used to make Champagne, hence the success of English fizz!

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Finally, look for two styles of red; a deep and flavoursome red to drink with beef or lamb (and drift off with as you doze off in front of the fire!) and a lighter style such as Pinot Noir or Gamay, that is food-friendly and will match with gammon (and even turkey!). A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all! SW Bottle Shop

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The classic match for a turkey dinner is a white wine from Burgundy, especially Macon, so if there’s one of these in the case it’s a very good sign! Also look out for a dessert wine. With so many sweet treats, Christmas is the perfect time to enjoy this style - the wine needs to be sweeter than the dessert – and every year I hear choruses of ‘Why don’t we buy pudding wine more often?’

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FOOD & DRINK

A winter warmer

Pumpkin soup with spiced pumpkin seeds Chris Heaver, new head chef for Bearslake Inn at Sourton has shared his winter warming recipe for pumpkin soup with spiced pumpkin seeds.

Why not give it a try?

Method Heat oil in large saucepan, gently cook onions for 5 mins Add Pumpkin and carry on cooking for 8 – 10 minutes until it starts to soften and turn golden Pour in vegetable stock, bring to the boil then simmer for 10 minutes Add the cream, bring back to the boil then puree with a handblender, and season to taste Add the pumpkin seeds to a bowl, add the oil, cumin and paprika and salt, mix until evenly coated Space out on a baking tray and roast for 10 minutes at 180degrees C

Ingredients 2 tbsp rapeseed oil  2 onions chopped  1 kg Pumpkin, peeled, deseeded and chopped  700ml vegetable stock  150ml double cream 80gms Pumpkin seeds  4 tsp rapeseed oil  2 tsp ground cumin  1 tsp smoked paprika  Pinch sea salt

D I N E | S TAY | R E L A X

Festive gathering and party menus available now at www. earslakeinn.com/festive-2021 01837 861 334 • Sourton, nr Okehampton EX20 4HQ • c f • www.bearslakeinn.com See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

HISTORY

Posting images of out towns and villages By Paul Rendell Old postcards were produced by a wide variety of publishers. Some local shops, published their own cards and other publishers like Lugg & Sons and S & A Jones both from the Arcade in Okehampton sold their postcards in lots of local shops.

Group of people from Okehampton taken by William Chapman (Paul Rendell Collection)

In this article we will look at Chapman and Sons from Dawlish and how they grew to become one of the leading suppliers of postcards on Dartmoor and other parts of the Westcountry. William James Chapman was born in Exeter, in 1830. An early diary shows that in 1859 he received 7s 6d for ‘photography’. Soon thereafter he started a photographic business in Exeter but in 1863 he moved with his wife to Town Tree Hill, Dawlish. Together with one of his sons, William Samuel Chapman, he ran William James Chapman & Son doing group photographs for local people. By 1890 the Chapmans were selling mainly trinket boxes made of cardboard covered in velvet material, putting a local photograph under glass and using it as a lid. Postcards in Britain came into being at the time of the 1870 Post Office Act, and from 1902 senders of postcards were allowed to write on the same side as the address, freeing the whole of the front surface for a picture. At about this time summer visitors were beginning to discover Dawlish, Torquay and Exmouth. Chapman & Son could see the future business potential and started producing postcards of the printed vignette type. These provided a cheap and convenient means of personal communication and, in addition, publicised the attractions of Dawlish and Dartmoor to a wide audience. This brought more visitors to Devon who in turn bought more postcards to send to family and friends. By 1907 postcards were the company’s main business. William Samuel Chapman used to travel through South Devon and across Dartmoor in a pony and trap with his bulky and cumbersome photographic equipment and he recorded many scenes of everyday life that were fast disappearing. 58

During the winter months he would print his most favourite photographs and stockpile them until the summer months. In the spring he would visit his retailers which were mainly village shops, post offices and fancy goods shops. The outlets would normally take dozens rather than hundreds of cards at a time. William would often take a train to a photographic location such as Okehampton. He would arrange to be met by a horse and trap from Okehampton Station and would be taken to see the military practicing on the moors, or to produce new images of Station Road or other scenes in the town or sometimes pop to the outlying villages like Belstone. In fact there were over 30 different postcards published of just Okehampton itself without counting those of the nearby moors. The person who took William around would tell local people that Mr Chapman would be in town and many locals would meet him and ask for their portrait to be taken. Typically he would spend the day in town and take up to two dozen photographs. This may not seem like a lot by today’s standards but he had to contend with heavy glass plates which came in boxes of 12 and were more than enough to carry around. When the Chapman family first started manufacturing postcards they were printed using sunlight. The half plate 6” x 4¾” glass negatives and the printing paper were placed on a large shelf-like rack and this was leant against the south facing wall outside the printing works. Years later the cards were produced indoors on a bench top with a light shining up through opaque glass. The room in which this took place was dark, except for the light from a dull red, electric bulb. The blank card was placed on the glass negative and the light

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HISTORY

Station Road in Okehampton with Moorland Hotel, halfway down the hill. (Paul Rendell Collection)

underneath switched on for a count of three. This was a slow and timeconsuming process which later was replaced. Sometimes Chapman would sell one of the negatives to another publisher such as Palmer of Okehampton who would produce postcards very similar to Chapman’s but with their own name on them. There is a postcard of a group of ponies by Okehampton Moorgate near the army camp. The bottom right picture was taken by Chapman but was not a good picture, so back in the studio they super imposed some more ponies in the foreground ‘top

right’ and ‘bottom left’. As they proved to be a best seller, Mr Palmer from the Arcade in Okehampton bought a copy of the print and made this own version of the postcard and sold in the local shops alongside Chapman card. There over 10 outlets for postcards in Okehampton in the 1930s so it was also worth coming to town and taking photographs

1-10, and then of Dawlish Beach. The last numbered card seems to have been 28,745 and pictured Lyme Regis, although many of the postcards were not numbered. Contact Paul Rendell on paul.dartmoor@ gmail.com if anyone knows of other publishers of postcards in West Devon.

The company’s first postcards were of Dawlish Parish Church, numbered

Okehampton Camp by Chapman (Paul Rendell Collection)

WALK

Lydford Village and High Down Circuit This walk has been kindly written and walked for Oke Links by Lisa Harris This scenic circuit follows part of the Archangel’s Way from Lydford up onto the moor. It tracks the river Lyd upstream before looping back over High Down. There are great views in all directions! Lydford is a lovely historic village with a ruined Norman castle built in 1195. It is well worth exploring further beyond the walk itself. Lydford Gorge, in the care of the National Trust, is half a mile beyond the village. From the carpark in Lydford follow the Saxon village street behind the Castle

Inn. This network of streets (known as a ‘burh’) dates from the 9th Century as a defensive response by King Alfred to the threat of Danish invasion. Walk north east past the Ancient Spring to a T-junction. It can get quite muddy in the winter months! Turn right and continue past the old Chapel, crossing the main road into Silver Street. This lane is the last leg of The Lych Way, the ‘way of the dead’ which stretches 12 miles across the moor from Bellever to Lydford. Continue straight on at the crossroads and pass under the old railway bridge along a green lane that then turns sharp right, becoming Skitt Lane and leading to the main A386. Cross straight over with great care, following the lane uphill to a gate onto the moor at High Down. Walk straight across the open moorland, ignoring a bridleway heading down towards the river Lyd in the valley to your right. You should be heading uphill

looking directly ahead towards Brat Tor with its distinctive cross on the top. As the slope levels off, keep following the clear path ahead through the gorse, keeping the steep drop down to the river on your right hand side. This brings you to a path crossing where you go right following the curve, across another path before heading down a track towards the river and the old Wheal Mary Emma mine. There’s not much left of the mine workings to see these days as they’ve largely been reclaimed by nature. At this point you continue left with the river on your right, tracing a narrow and rocky path that climbs up to Captain Hunter’s Rock. This is a fine spot for a break (or even a swim!) on the bench while admiring the view up to Brat Tor, before continuing along the river until you reach the ford and footbridge. Don’t cross the river but keep following it upstream with a stone wall on your

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By Denise Horner Illustrated and designed by Sara Nunan

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WALK

A386

Noddon Gate

Castle Inn Lydford

Dartmoor Inn High Down

Disused Railway

Brat Tor

Lyd River

Distance: Approximately 5 miles Difficulty: straightforward (although care is required after heavy rain where the path is very close to the river). Time: 2 - 2.5 hours Start point:The Castle Inn, Lydford, grid reference SX510848

left hand side. The path is narrow in places and care is needed if the water level is high after heavy rain. After about half a mile the wall you’ve been following turns sharp left up a grassy hill. Follow this straight up and over the hill and down towards a gate in the bottom corner (Nodden Gate) which is marked ’10 Tors’. Go through the gate and turn immediately hard left through another gate. Follow the footpath signs first alongside a stone wall to your right, then at another footpath sign, cut diagonally across the field to cross a stile. Continue straight ahead across High Down looking directly ahead at the amazing view towards Gallows Hill and Brentor, with glimpses of Plymouth Sound in the distance. Turn right at a crossing track to head towards a carpark which is located at the end of a short lane behind the Dartmoor Inn. Go down the lane and cross the A386 again. On the corner to your right you’ll see Lydford Farm Shop which is well stocked with goodies. Follow the lane straight ahead of you back into Lydford.

The Archangel’s Way is a new pilgrimage route of 35 miles across the north of Dartmoor from Brentor to Chagford. It’s an ancient and remote landscape that connects you to the people who have lived here via the buildings and artefacts they have left behind.

Map: Dartmoor OS Explorer OL28

Denise Horner of Dartmoor Nordic Walking has finished her ‘Walks with Winnie’ for the Oke Links and has handed over the ceremonial walking stick to Lisa and Badger who will be the magazine’s new contributors. Denise said: ‘I have been writing “Walks with Winnie” for Oke Links since it started six years ago and wrote my final walk last issue. ‘I would like to thank former Editor Jane Honey for all of her help and support during this time in developing the walks with me – and also the Links family – especially helping me through the loss of our Winnie, I have really enjoyed my time writing for the

magazine. It is no longer the same writing the walks without Winnie but please join me in welcoming Lisa and Badger who are taking over the spot. ‘We look forward to reading and walking your walks!’

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Oke Links November/December 21

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