Tavistock • Mary Tavy • Kilworthy • Moortown Whitchurch • Horndon • Lamerton • Grenofen • Brentor Gulworthy • Peter Tavy • Horsebridge • Milton Abbot
Winter 2014
Full What’s On Guide Burrator Discovery Centre Building Changes in Tavistock Issue 11 £1.50 where sold
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CONTENTS
A different way of giving… With the festive season fast approaching and many of us racing around trying to buy gifts and decorate our homes, perhaps we should slow down and in the true spirit of Christmas, think of giving some of our time to others in our community or elsewhere in the world. Two specific articles in this issue remind us of the need to spread our giving a little wider. With a large support group in West Devon, Peter Mayston has kindly put together an article about the Santa Rosa Fund, who work so hard to provide the necessary equipment for children to achieve a basic level of education in Nicaragua. The Book Bus again features in the magazine, with our Last Word written by Jennie Davies who recently went to Malawi to help on one of the many Book Buses now based around the world. As she says in her closing paragraph, education is vital to improving standards of living and a long-term decline in poverty. However, poverty sadly is still a factor in our own communities and our local food banks in Tavistock and Bere Alston have had to increase their giving by almost 100% since we last featured them two years ago. Rosemary has put together a brief update on their situation and a growing need for more support. Jennie Davies vowed she would, on retirement, sign herself up for a trip with the Book Bus - maybe we could all share a similar kind of ‘resolution’ within our New Year celebrations. From all the team at Tavy Links, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Lizzie
Lizzie Watt, Editor editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
P.S. Remember to join us on our Facebook page, for regular event listings and up to date news! Deadline for the Spring issue is Friday 7th February 2015. We would like to say a big thank you to our many local contributors, who help to keep our magazine so interesting to all. If you would like to help or have a story or event you would like to see published please do get in touch. Please contact us via email (editorial@tavylinks.co.uk), telephone 01822 853110 or visit our website www.tavylinks.co.uk. Editor: Lizzie Watt Publisher: Tim Randell Deputy Editor: Rosemary Best Writers: Rosemary Best, Nichola Williams, Pat Woodgate, Lizzie Spiers and Bethany Miall Graphic Designers: Terri Reeves and Rachel Marsh
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CONTENTS 4. Local People
President of Tavistock Lions Club, Steve Grummit, Former Private Secretary to Margaret Thatcher, Neill Mitchell and Master Florist, Amanda Randell
8. School Spotlight
Burrator’s new Discovery Centre
11. Book Review
Natasha Church of Book Stop, Tavistock gives us some advice for Christmas reading.
12. Charity Focus
Santa Rosa Fund, Nicaragua
14. Looking Good
Dr Harriet Doyle, helps with solutions for better ‘sleep’ and Master Florist Amanda Randell, helps us decorate our tables for Christmas.
24. Naturalist
Winter mammals we are most likely to see.
42. Maisie’s Walk
A walk along the river Walkham in memory of our wonderful Maisie – who sadly passed away in October.
46. A Day Out To…
Bethany heads a little closer to home and reminds us all why we love Tavistock!
48. Great Escapes
Glowing open fires at Bovey Castle and an artists adventure to Morocco.
56. Local History
Why we have a reservoir at Burrator.
ALL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
Contact Tim Randell on 07540 161 929 / 01822 853110 to disuss your advertising enquiries. Email: advertising@tavylinks.co.uk or visit our website: www.tavylinks.co.uk to view our rate card. Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the editorial team. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Tavy Links or Olijam Communications Limited accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. All data contained in advertisements are subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and are accepted by us in good faith at the time of going to press. Reproduction of editorial is strictly prohibited without prior permission from the publisher. All rights reserved copyright © 2014 Front Cover Image: David Bouch, Head Gardener and the Cotehele garland. Photo courtesy of Chris Saville, Apex. More on the garland at Cotehele on page 35. 3
LOCAL PEOPLE
Steve Grummitt
President of the Lions Club of Tavistock I went to meet Steve Grummitt at a lively, bustling Bedford Hotel. In unruffled fashion he arranged for a private side room for our interview. This same unpretentious charm he applies effectively in his role (for the third time) as President of the Lions Club of Tavistock. The Club has raised a staggering £380,000 since its formation in 1976 so I imagine the modest and unassuming Steve is just not used to people saying ‘no’! Born in the summer of 1943 in Middlesex, he was educated at Kilburn Grammar School. On leaving school Steve joined the BICC research centre near White City in London for six years. He joined Hellermann Electric in 1968 as a product manager working on the identification of cables and binding systems. When the company relocated to Plymouth he, his wife Chris and their two children jumped at the chance to move to the West Country. His new post brought opportunities to travel, visiting international companies and training staff, something he feels fortunate to have experienced. Having retired in 2003, six months later Steve joined the local funeral directors Morris Brothers and enjoys this part time job immensely. A profession that he finds very rewarding and satisfying. He describes the need within this role for sympathy and compassion, qualities that perhaps brought him to the Lions Club back in 1978. His next door neighbour invited him to join and he was pleased to accept. The Tavistock Club currently has 36 members of all ages and walks of life. It is part of Lions Club International, a worldwide voluntary service organisation with over 46,000 Clubs in 200 countries, comprising of more than 1,350,000 members, making it the largest organisation of its kind in the world. Steve was president for the second time in 1999 when the
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Lions Club introduced the “Tree of Light” – each light bulb being sponsored in memory of a departed loved one on a Christmas tree mounted on the front of the Town Hall. As President he was the first to switch on the lights and repeated that honour again this year. He is thrilled to say that today there are now three trees and they have raised a remarkable £71,000 for local charities including branches of the Chestnut Appeal, Motor Neurone Disease Association and the Tavistock Triangle and Chemotherapy Outreach Centre. Each Lions Club has no religious or political affiliations of any description, the effort contributed by a collection of men and women (and frequently their families too) for serving their local community creates an eclectic fellowship second to none. Its mission statement - to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions Clubs is without a doubt a worthwhile ethos and one which is ably maintained by Steve and his fellow admirable Club members. For further information on the Club, forthcoming events and how to get involved please visit their website www. tavistocklions.org.uk or their face book page. Nichola Williams
editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
LOCAL PEOPLE
Neill Mitchell
Former member of Margaret Thatcher’s private office As Neill Mitchell sits opposite me chatting in a relaxed and unassuming way I find it difficult to believe I am interviewing a man who worked in the private office of Baroness Thatcher during her first term as Prime Minister. His career path has been rich and varied and he seems to be the sort of person who not only turns his hand to everything but who embraces opportunities wherever they are presented and then turns them into achievements. He has organised Royal-patronised events in Hyde Park, Wembley and Olympia, business events at the QEII Conference Centre in Westminster, was a publicly-appointed member of the governance of Network Rail Limited and regional chairman of the 7-County South West Chambers of Commerce, as well as working in the voluntary sector on the board of a number of high profile fund-raising projects.
not tally with page 250’. Neill sometimes had to deliver urgent messages to her from the Foreign Office but she had always picked up the information from the BBC radio news before he reached her. Neill also recalls her sense of humour - she disliked flippant or crude remarks, but she loved satire and thoroughly enjoyed the television series ‘Yes Minister’, even allowing an episode to be filmed at Number 10.
At the age of three Neill moved with his family to South Africa and spent his early childhood in Port Elizabeth until the arrest of Nelson Mandela, at which point his family decided it was time to return to England. Neill has necessarily spent much of his life in London but is very proud of his Devonian roots and can trace his Plymouth ancestry back for more than 300 years to the time when his forebears worked as tidal water millers in the Yealmpton area. He was born in Devon and came back to live here on the Bere Peninsula, again in 1997 when he became Chief Executive of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce.
Neill was later recruited into the Department of Trade and Industry where he was in charge of the export promotion hospitality programme for VIP overseas guests. The role involved promoting 2500 UK companies involved in export but also resulted in 6 years of five star hotel treatment and an intimate knowledge of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ which he saw 55 times (all in the line of duty). While he was in London he became chairman of the Riding Club at the Royal Mews where he met The Queen periodically, when Her Majesty was on her (often un-escorted) informal strolls amongst the horses. He also had the opportunity to ride the circuit from the Mews to the Bank of England, to Covent Garden and along the Strand. A group of riders even took the horses carol singing round the pubs at Christmas - The Antelope in Belgravia even welcomed the horses right into the bar for a drink.
Neill began his career in London at Lloyds Bank International and then in his words ‘drifted’ into the civil service, initially with a posting in the Courts of Law and then at 24, a position in the Lord Chancellor’s office in the House of Lords where his role involved drafting Royal and State Letters Patent, red boxing them to the Queen’s Office for signature and then applying the Great Seal of the Realm upon their return. In 1980 he moved to Margaret Thatcher’s private office at 10 Downing Street where he worked very closely with the Prime Minister and grew to know her well. He describes Baroness Thatcher as ‘everyone’s mother’ because contrary to the public persona which was often portrayed by the media, Neill describes her as caring and attentive, frequently worrying about the welfare of her staff. Once on a tour of India she insisted that her 20 staff benefitted from the VIP tour of the Taj Mahal while she stayed and manned the office. The scientist in Margaret Thatcher meant that ‘why?’ was her initial response to every proposal put before her and a 300 page scientific document given to her at 10pm would be returned the next morning with scribbled comments suggesting that, for example, ‘the data on page 204 does www.tavylinks.co.uk
Although Neill has officially retired he recently devised and donated the Great American Heritage Trail for Visit Plymouth - the trail comprises of 37 locations of historical interest in the city of Plymouth and is part of the run-up to the 400th anniversary of the 1620 sailing of the Mayflower. He is also working on reports around the issue of the railway routes between Plymouth and Exeter following David Cameron’s interest in an article he wrote in 2011; the article reviewed acts of parliament passed in 1936 and 1937 to reroute the railway before plans were overtaken by WWII. Neill Mitchell has countless achievements to his name and yet even now he wonders if he could have accomplished more by a life in politics - although he is still not sure which party he would have joined. Rosemary Best 5
LOCAL PEOPLE
Amanda Randell
British Master Florist and RHS Chelsea Gold Medalist 2014
arrangements were 15ft long. Following the success of this particular wedding, Amanda was personally invited to fly out to the Gulf to undertake a floral ‘shoot’ for Arab Vogue. She explains that this was a most surreal event, as she was surrounded by a number of armed guards whilst she worked – as the table settings (for which she was arranging the flowers), were entirely made of gold.
Having run her award winning shop, Randell Cox, in Tavistock for over six years, before moving on to a more freelance lifestyle, Amanda Randell will be familiar to many of you. If you’ve met her she will probably have struck you as vivacious, hugely creative and talented, warm, friendly and above all extremely passionate about all things floral. Her exquisite floral designs have this year won her a prestigious, RHS Chelsea Gold Medal on her first entry to Chelsea. As she says herself, she became a slightly maniacal Cheshire Cat for days after receiving the award. Amanda has clearly always had a somewhat creative streak in her from early childhood. In her early years Amanda lived with her parents in Pakistan, whilst her father, an Army Officer, was based in Rawalpindi. Her parents decided she would be better off at boarding school in the UK. Having only attended a handful of ballet lessons, she promptly advised her parents that she would like to go to a dedicated ballet school and so Elmhurst School of Dance was chosen. On leaving school, ballet was left behind and Amanda took up an apprenticeship with the famous and highly prestigious florists, Moyses Stevens in Berkeley Square, London. Whilst with Moyses Stevens, Amanda worked on many interesting contracts and society clients, not least an Arab family wedding that took place at London’s Claridges where table 6
Her father was later posted to Paris as Defense Attaché and having always loved everything Parisian, Amanda decided to leave London and join her parents. A job however was necessary to pay her way so she applied to work at the newly formed Disneyland, initially within the gardens department. She found a gap in their décor – flowers – and so convincing them of her skills, introduced a new ‘floristy department’ to the corporation. Once again her father was then on the move, this time to Moscow and so Amanda decided to come back to the UK with her mother. For a short time she worked within the Press Office for Action 2000 (dealing with the possibilities of a millennium bug), learning PR skills that have now become so invaluable to her. On meeting the love of her life, Amanda moved to Devon to be with her future husband Tim Randell and decided to launch her own florists shop – Randell Cox in Tavistock. With her very young daughter Lily spending too much time in her pram in the shop, whilst Amanda worked – she decided that family needed to come first and sold the business to work on a freelance basis. She now creates stunning displays for many of our local hotels, and loves to be able to spend time providing the perfect floral creations for local weddings and events. She decided to further her qualifications and individual flare and studied for her Masters Degree in Floristy at the Academy of Floral Art in Exeter; she now teaches at the Academy herself one weekend a month. Amanda is one of editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
LOCAL PEOPLE
only 72 known British Masters in the UK and is keen on sharing her knowledge and improving standards for those wanting to join the industry. With competition from more than 300 other florists to secure one of only 16 places at RHS Chelsea, and to then win a gold medal – it is not surprising that she is being snapped up for floral ‘shoots’ (the latest by Marks and Spencer), here in the UK, but has also recently traveled to South of France and Romania. However, her passion is not only for flowers but also people and she loves nothing more than getting to know local brides and fully embracing their magical day as if it were her own! Lizzie Watt Amanda can be contacted through her website: www.amandarandell.co.uk or on 01822 870888
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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
In 2013 South West Lakes Trust (SWLT) was successful in securing funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), South West Water, Biffa Award, Dartmoor Sustainable Development Fund, and West Devon Borough Council, and this funding has enabled the eagerly awaited three year ‘Burrator Historic and Natural Environment Project’ to become a reality. The whole project aims to consolidate historic remains around Burrator, improve access and increase community engagement by widening the provision of learning, interpretation and participation at Burrator.
more about Burrator and what it has to offer, from the construction of the dam to tin working and farming in the area, to help preserve it for the future. As such, whilst building works were underway an enthusiastic team of volunteers worked alongside Smith and Jones Design Consultants to research and create the content for the static and interactive displays and audio histories now in the new visitor centre.
A key part of the Burrator Historic and Natural Environment Project has been to restore the hundred year old ‘Iron Store’, and convert it into a Discovery Centre housing the SWLT office, the visitor centre and a classroom (which can be hired out externally). The Iron Store was a former forestry building, and is the only surviving example of an original building made of corrugated iron on Dartmoor. During an extensive consultation programme in 2011, it was found there was an overwhelming need for ‘interpretation’ to help visitors explore the area and learn
BA (Hons), Masters, A-levels, BTECs and more in Art, Design and Digital Media.
Throughout the three year project SWLT are looking to extend their learning offer to schools and colleges in delivering curriculum based visits, along with personal development opportunities for young people and adults alike. Since July 2013 the project has delivered Forest School and outdoor learning programmes to pupils from ACE Primary, (the hearing support centre at Eggbuckland Vale Primary School) and Meavy & Yelverton District Pre-School (who have now become the new ‘Burrator Outdoor Pre-School’) Statements such as, “I’ve never done anything like this before ... it’s the best day ever!”, are now often heard!
Come along to our next Open Day: Sat 10 Jan 1pm-5pm
+44 (0)1752 203 434 plymouthart.ac.uk 8
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SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
In addition over the first year of the project an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) class from City College Plymouth have visited the site every Wednesday morning and in their second semester, to comply with their employability module, formed a social enterprise group and created the ‘Burrator Alive with History’ guide, aimed at 1619 year olds. The guide was launched at the Open Day, and is now on sale from the Burrator Discovery Centre. Along with these formal and informal learning opportunities, taster days for groups are also offered; a combination of practical work, orienteering, nature trails, and forest school – tailor made to the group’s needs, as well as corporate team building days. At weekends regular themed events are held, around traditional skill development such as coppicing and charcoal burning. Family sessions via our family wildlife watch programme focus on a different area each month, in September it was an evening bat watch, October seed gathering and November, fungi. Since July the centre has held monthly adult evening workshops delivered by Claire Packer from the Wet Felting Company which have been extremely well attended, and a great example of how the new classroom can be used.
If you would like more information about arranging a school visit, attending a family event, getting involved in volunteering or looking to hire out the classroom please e-mail Emily at: heritage@swlakestrust.org.uk call 01822 855700 or visit us at the new Centre.
Emily Cannon Burrator Heritage Learning Officer
Modern and Traditional Lighting Gallery Unusual Mirrors and Occasional Furniture Giftware and Objet D’art
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BOOK REVIEW
Inspired by previous trips to Russia and propelled by a need to extricate himself from 21st Century life and its materialism, the author spends six months (February to July) in a log cabin by Lake Baikal in Siberia. His neighbours, including lone forest rangers and weather station employees, are few and far between. Nature around the lake is harsh, beautiful and terrifying: temperatures range from +30 in the summer down to -30 in winter, with violent storms, mosquitoes, bears and wolves to wonder at and contend with.
young dogs as his companions and protectors, he notes: “These masters teach me to inhabit the only country worth living in: the moment”. In the midst of his developing appreciation of hermitic life, there are humorous depictions of his characterful Russian visitors and hosts, with whom he engages in energetic discussions and vodka drinking. There is also a personal price for him to pay for his stay in Russia and he describes this with intense emotion. Sylvain Tesson highlights the benefits of taking a breather from city life and re-connecting with nature, in order to slow down, know silence and to question and marvel at the fullness and completeness of life, in all its glory. Book Priced: £9.99
The essential supplies Tesson brings with him have a smattering of humour and personality about them, such as “10 boxes of acetaminophen for vodka hangovers” and unexpectedly large quantities of Tabasco. As the weeks go on, he becomes increasingly deeply connected to his environment. In March, he notes that “my being is taking root”, and by the end of April, with two
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The Goldfinch, by Donna Tartt. First novel in over a decade from bestselling author of The Secret History and The Little Friend. £8.99
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The Narrow Road to the Deep North, by Richard Flanagan. This year’s Man Booker Prize winner, set on the Burma Death Railway. £16.99
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Moriarty, by Anthony Horowitz. Sherlock Holmes is dead, and darkness falls. £19.99
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Centuries of Change, by Ian Mortimer. Renowned historian discusses the great changes of the last millennium. £20.00
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Awful Auntie, by David Walliams. Brand new children’s comedy from multi-talented Walliams. £12.99
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CHARITY FOCUS
The Santa Rosa Fund (SRF) was established as a registered charity in 1994, to support education in the Santa Rosa barrio (suburb) of the capital Managua. The idea emerged during a school exchange visit in the 1980’s and has evolved into an organisation that now aims to distribute at least £10,000 each year to projects throughout Nicaragua. The Santa Rosa Fund is maintained by the loyal band of supporters, the large majority of whom live in or around West Devon. Their regular donations plus the proceeds from two annual events (Quiz in springtime, Music and performance poetry in autumn) fund the core of the work. Larger individual donations have enabled funding of capital projects such as the ‘Ben Dalton’ library at the Santa Rosa school and lighting for the sports hall in Cosiguina The connection with the Santa Rosa school has been central throughout. Initially this was in the form of boxes of pens, paper and other materials being sent out. Transport costs soon became prohibitive so since the 100th box, funds have been transferred to Nicaragua and purchases made locally. The scope of the support has widened to include library facilities, assistance to poorer families and teacher training. All projects are visited at least once a year by at least one of the Fund’s trustees when progress can be assessed and 12
purchasing requirements discussed. We firmly believe in local involvement and avoid imposing pre conceived concepts. Each proposal is costed and evaluated at a meeting of the trustees. As an example, installation of the computer system was initiated in this way. The concept was discussed with supporters and followed by a successful fund-raising drive. When the British Embassy in Nicaragua closed their surplus computer hardware was generously donated to the school. The Fund continues to maintain and expand the system and to provide training in its use. The Fund soon became aware of wider educational needs outside of the formal school system, with vulnerable young people loosely referred to as ‘street children’. Local groups exist that are able to offer a safe refuge and training, providing alternatives to a life of homelessness, crime, prostitution, and addiction. Annual donations are made to support their valuable work and we have provided 70 rucksacks of equipment so that students can attend school. These problems are also prevalent in rural areas, which have correspondingly low employment prospects. SRF has extended its work to include towns and villages in western Nicaragua. Here we work with a partner organisation, the Berriz Sisters, whose ‘liberation theology’ approach to education matches our philosophy. Current projects range from the regional town of Cosiguina, where library facilities, youth workers and sporting facilities have been funded, to editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
CHARITY FOCUS the small isolated village of Los Positos where students have to travel some distance to the nearest town for secondary education. Pioneering new initiatives support workshops of a women’s co-operative (safety during natural disasters) and volunteer nurses and doctors (sexual health). Co-ordinated by the SRF, visitors from the UK assist with these projects on a voluntary basis on the clear understanding that they must be entirely self-funded. It has proved to be a genuine life-changing experience for many of them. Peter Mayston
For more information or to subscribe to the newsletter, visit www.santarosafund.org.uk Contact email. mmowforth@plymouth.ac.uk phone 01822 617504 Registered charity No 1028085
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LOOKING GOOD
Dr Harriet Doyle gives some tips on how to get the best night’s sleep
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Different people need different amounts of sleep. Some function well, and are not tired during the day with just a few hours’ sleep a night; Margaret Thatcher, notoriously, managed with just 3 or 4 hours on a regular basis. However, most people need more than this, 6 to 9 hours per night is average. Generally, a sleep pattern that is normal for an individual, is established in early adult life and for most people, it takes less than 30 minutes to fall asleep. However, as you become older, it is normal to sleep less. Anxiety and depression can also affect
Contact us on 855978 to make an appointment or to ask for advice Yelverton Foot Clinic Unit 1 The Rock Complex Yelverton PL20 6BS
a sleep pattern, either with trouble settling, or waking early ruminating. ‘Sleep hygiene’ can help to ensure you get a good nights rest. Here are a few tips that might make a difference • Avoid napping during the day. It can disturb the normal pattern of sleep and wakefulness. • Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol too close to bedtime. While alcohol is well known to speed the onset of sleep,
“Our Chiropodists and Podiatrists are all HPC Registered and offer clinics Monday to Saturday” Krista Linnen BSc (Hons) Home visits available upon request editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
LOOKING GOOD
it is disruptive as the night goes on, as the body begins to break it down. Caffeine after the middle of the day can also cause trouble, and it is worth remembering that tea can have as much caffeine in it as coffee. • Exercise can promote good sleep. Vigorous exercise should be taken in the morning or late afternoon. A relaxing exercise, like yoga, can be done before bed to help initiate a restful night’s sleep. • Food can be disruptive right before sleep. Stay away from large meals close to bedtime. Also dietary changes can cause sleep problems, if someone is struggling with a sleep problem, it’s not a good time to start experimenting with spicy dishes. And, remember, chocolate has caffeine. • Ensure adequate exposure to natural light. This is particularly important for older people who may not venture outside as frequently as children and adults. Light exposure helps maintain a healthy sleepwake cycle.
• Establish a regular relaxing bedtime routine. A warm bath might help to relax you, or a warm milky drink. Try to avoid emotionally upsetting conversations and activities before trying to go to sleep. Don’t dwell on, or bring your problems to bed.
Dr Harriet Doyle
• Associate your bed with sleep. It’s not a good idea to use your bed to watch TV, listen to the radio. Even reading can sometimes exacerbate the problem. • Don’t worry. If you do wake up in the night, don’t lie in bed panicking that you won’t be able to manage the next day. Getting up for 10 minutes can break the sleepless cycle. Or keep a notebook on your bedside table to write down things that are going round in your head So, everyone is different. What is important is that the amount of sleep that you get should be sufficient for you, and that you usually feel refreshed and not sleepy during the daytime. Dr Harriet Doyle
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4 Abbey Place (at the side of the main Post Office)
1st Floor, Tavistock, Pl19 0AA
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LOOKING GOOD
A step by step guide from Master Florist, Amanda Randell You will need: A good selection of Christmas foliage Approx. 10 large headed single stemmed roses 4 or 5 red Hydrangea heads A small bunch of red fresias, 4 tall candles, 2 rectangular blocks of florists oasis 1 long rectangular tray 1.2 metre length of fabric or wide ribbon Florist’s wire and tape Decorative buttons/pins (optional). Any small Christmas decorations (stars /miniature baubles) 1. Start by soaking the foam, allowing them to sink to the bottom of a bucket of water. Trim them with a knife to fit snuggly inside the rectangular tray. Using the florist’s tape, tape them securely to the tray.
2. Wrap your fabric/ribbon around the sides of the oasis (it should be a good inch taller than the oasis). Pin securely either side with decorative pins or some florist wire bent double (to create a hairpin shape).
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By adding a fabric ‘wrap’ to the foam, less foliage is needed for the arrangement and it keeps the arrangement neat on a table. 3. Position your 4 candles evenly along the foam – pinning them in place with some florist wire, again twisted into a hairpin shape and taped in place. (or you can use plastic candle holders). 4. Start arranging your foliage to fill the spaces between and around the candles – cut the stems at a 45 degree angle and strip the lower stem clean of foliage. 7. Finish with a final layer of florists ‘veiling’ by adding a final twist of clematis stems, wrapping between the candles. This adds interest through movement and stops the arrangement looking too stiff and formal.
5. Start to add the Hydrangea heads, spacing appropriately. Add any fir cones you may have too (attach some wire to the base of the cone).
Call in to your local florist who will be happy to supply you with all the necessary equipment needed for this arrangement.
6. Now start to place your rose heads and freesias, spacing evenly. If you wish at this stage, embellish with any Christmas ornaments, (stars or miniature baubles fixed in with wire).
NB: don’t forget to never leave candles unattended, especially used in a woody design.
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THE COPPER PENNY INN AND HOLIDAY LETS
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Peter and Marion have farmed in the area for more than forty years. And now using their own locally reared meat and dairy serve the best home made food in the area. • • •
Three great ales – Dartmoor, Jail Ale and Tribute Function room for weddings and private parties Skittles & Live Music Food served:12 noon– 2.30pm, 6pm – 9pm every day.
Fresh and frozen meats from our own three farms: South Gulworthy Farm Hurditch Horn Farm Three Oaks Farm • • •
Beef, Lamb, Pork, Venison Fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, cream, cheese, eggs and bread. Home Made Cakes, Jams & Chutneys
Farm shop opening times: 8am – 5pm Monday – Saturday Sunday 12 noon – 3pm
COPPER PENNY INN AND FARM SHOP Chipshop, Tavistock, PL19 8NT Telephone: 01822 833288 Email: peter@copperpennyinn.co.uk www.copperpennyinn.co.uk
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Tavistock and District Ring & Ride Tavistock & District Ring & Ride provides door-to-door transport for the elderly, disabled or rurally isolated, who have no access to their own vehicle and are unable to use regular public transport (such as buses or taxis). This allows potentially house bound people the opportunity to shop and use local amenities. Our minibus is adapted to accommodate wheelchairs, and carers are welcome to travel too. Passengers book their journey on our minibus simply by
phoning the Ring and Ride Co-ordinator [at least] one day before they wish to travel and they are then picked up at their door, (with assistance from the driver if necessary) and brought into Tavistock. After a short period to allow for shopping etc, the minibus will return them to home. The minibus collects from a different area each day, and once a week there is a visit to Plymouth. To find out more, please contact our Co-ordinator on 01822 618028 (from 9.30am to 12.30pm Mon to Fri) or by email: coordinator@tdltp.co.uk. Further information is also available from our website: www.tdltp.co.uk
CHICKS at Christmas Tavistock-based charity CHICKS is once again holding special Christmas breaks for disadvantaged children at its retreats in Devon and Cornwall. From 23rd – 27th December, a group of disadvantaged children from across the country will be spending a traditional family-style Christmas with the charity. Surrounded by caring CHICKS staff and volunteers, the children will take part in a whole host of festivities including a trip to the pantomime and a visit from Father Christmas not to mention enjoying presents, games, stockings and a traditional turkey dinner on Christmas day. Away from challenges and issues such as poverty, abuse, neglect and caring responsibilities, the children will be able
to experience the magical Christmas every child deserves. For some of the children it may be the first Christmas they’ve ever known. The biggest challenge the charity faces this Christmas is financial; raising enough money so that disadvantaged children can have the break they desperately needed. If you’d like to support CHICKS then please send a donation to ‘CHICKS at Christmas Appeal, CHICKS Moorland Retreat, Brentor, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0LX’ or you can make a donation over the phone by calling 01822 811020 or online at www.chicks.org.uk.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Tavistock Foodbank - an update We first ran an article on the Tavistock foodbank two years ago and since then the numbers of those in need has doubled When we initially talked to the foodbank two years ago, foodbanks were opening up all over the country. They are now a familiar organisation in most larger villages and towns. They are designed to help people who have reached a crisis point due to illness, losing a partner, sudden job loss or delays in receiving benefits, and they enable clients to receive a three-day pack of non-perishable food in exchange for a food voucher. Nationally the need for the service has increased over the last three years with over 900,000 people receiving food from foodbanks in 2013-14 which is more than twice the figure for the previous year. The Tavistock foodbank has also experienced an increased need in the last two years and fed over 800 people last year compared to just under 400 the previous year. Due to the increased number of referrals there are now 25 agencies in Tavistock compared to 16 last year, who are able to issue food vouchers. Volunteers also deliver food parcels to
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people’s homes when they are understood to be in desperate need, which sometimes happens two to three times a week. Public support for the foodbank has been strong throughout the last two years enabling the Foodbank to always meet demand. The foodbank committee would like to thank all the people of Tavistock, all the churches and schools, TACT members, charitable associations and community bodies for their continued generosity and heart-warming support for the foodbank. In particular the committee would like to thank the 34 volunteers who give their time to ensure the smooth operation of the foodbank, and the Reverend Cornish and the United Reformed Church for the use of the Lower Deck CafÊ. To contact theTavistock foodbank please call 07941436149.
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NATURALIST
In our autumn issue of the magazine we featured Dr Andrew Brown and the work he is doing with the B4 Project (Bringing Back Black Bees). Since then, the Duchy of Cornwall has given its support to the project, which aims to save the Cornish remnants of the native Black Honey Bee. Twenty black bee colonies have been established on Duchy land in Lostwithiel and near to Callington in Cornwall. These sites have been chosen, as they will hopefully provide ideal conditions for the successful breeding of native Black Honey Bees. Duchy of Cornwall Land Steward, Roger Halliday, added: “The apiaries were installed on Duchy land just in time for Their Royal Highness’s annual visit in July and The Prince was delighted to meet the B4 team at the Duchy Nursery and to learn more about the Project. The Cornish Black Bee is unique and distinctive to the County and essential for maintaining local eco-systems and biodiversity.
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Their preservation is something which the Duchy of Cornwall readily supports.” It is estimated that the bee population in Britain has declined by a third since 2007 and the number of Honeybee Colonies has dropped by 75 per cent in the last century. The B4 project hopes to help reverse this decline with a combination of conservation initiatives including making local near-native bees more available. To help counteract the decline, the B4 Project was established by Andrew Brown in 2012 and the Project set about coordinating support from beekeeping groups and conservation organizations across the South-West of England. www.b4project.co.uk
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NATURALIST
Observations of our mammalian wildlife are usually fleeting; a pair of eyes reflected in the car headlights or the realisation that something grey-brown and furry has just disappeared into the undergrowth is often the best we can expect. Winter time does however leave these animals more exposed to our view and sightings may become more frequent especially at dusk or dawn. Otherwise a little bit of detective work is needed to study the evidence they leave behind - footprints, pathways, feeding debris and droppings. Grey squirrels, rabbits, roe deer, badgers, foxes and hedgehogs have all appeared in our Tamar Valley garden during the many years we have lived here.
have had a chequered history in the British Isles. Formerly ‘farmed’ in man-made warrens such as the ones at Ditsworthy on Dartmoor in the Plym Valley, the population reached plague proportions in the 1950’s but the introduction
Grey squirrels and rabbits are the two species that are instantly recognized by everyone and both are active in daytime even in winter months. Grey squirrels are relative newcomers, introduced in the late 19th century by, amongst others, the Duke of Bedford at his Woburn estate. They are now perfectly happy in both urban and rural environments but because of the damage they can wreak on young saplings they are considered by many to be a pest. This year’s Autumnal hazelnut crop has been ideal for them and our local individuals seem to have spent weeks collecting and storing them for winter consumption. Here in the Southwest they do not seem to spend much time in hibernation possibly due to milder winters. Introduced by the Romans as a source of food, rabbits
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NATURALIST of the myxomatosis virus nearly wiped them out. Now the population fluctuates, controlled in part by man and a useful food source for predators like buzzards and foxes, they are not always welcome visitors to our gardens. I would now add roe deer to the list of mammals that we can see on a regular basis especially in our part of the Tamar Valley. In winter they are greyish brown in colour with a white rump around a short tail and 70 cm. high at the shoulder, the size of a large dog.. Years ago they would occasionally appear on the hillside opposite our house, then they began cropping roses and day lilies in the flower garden and now they can often be spotted in the daytime. Nationally the deer population is known to have increased; locally I believe that abandoned former market gardens, now reverting to woodland provide them with their ideal habitat. Two of our largest mammalian predators, badger and fox are often seen in the car headlights and during the winter their well-worn pathways through hedgerows and under fences can easily be found. A badger sett, when located, is an amazing construction with numerous entrances, piles of fresh excavated material indicate that they are in residence. They are remarkably clean in their habits though you may
come across a smelly ‘pit latrine’ some distance away from the sett! In contrast the distinctive strong smell from a fox’s burrow always gives away its location. Both species have diets which are surprisingly omnivorous including fruit and earthworms as well as small mammals. I think you anyone catching a glimpse of a hedgehog is extremely lucky as this much loved species has unfortunately suffered a drastic decline in numbers in recent years and with its diet of insects and molluscs it is an extremely welcome visitor to our gardens. If you want to encourage hedgehogs in your patch make sure that you only use methods of slug and snail control which do not harm hedgehogs and other wildlife and resist the temptation to be too tidy as they also like plenty of undergrowth to hide in. Of course there are many other mammals we may spot in our gardens, on country walks or even when driving and they all remind us that although our country is one of the most densely populated in Europe we are never far away from the wild, a fact I think we should celebrate even when they have eaten all our lettuces or nibbled our rosebuds! Peter Mayston
Traditional living in a modern world Wishing all our customers new and old a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
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GARDENING
Autumn leaves, weeds, prunings and more, all pile up at this time of year. Rather than burning or binning garden waste, turn it into compost – a rich source of nutrients and a fantastic soil conditioner to boost plant growth. To make good compost with the minimum of work, get the ingredients right, mix well and leave to ‘cook’ for a few months. The golden rule is to mix or layer “dry” and “wet”
Design and Installation Waterfalls and Streams Planting and Stocking Water Features Renovation Leak Repair 26
materials; for example, lawn clippings and green weeds (wet) with leaves or shredded prunings (dry) - too much of one or the other leads to trouble! Potential troublemaking ingredients to avoid are diseased plant material or the roots of perennial weeds – put these in your green waste collection instead. Woody branches take ages to rot, so chop up or shred any that are more than a centimetre in diameter. Other biodegradable waste can be composted too: uncooked kitchen scraps such as fruit and vegetable peelings, teabags and coffee grounds; paper, card and envelopes (plain, not shiny); wood ash; vacuum cleaner contents; pet bedding and manure (rabbits, guinea pigs and the like, but not dog or cat faeces that can carry disease); and even chopped-up wool or cotton clothing. Don’t put cooked Ellis Taylor food waste in a standard bin where it’s likely to attract rodents, but it composts fantastically well in a wormery or a vermin-proof bin. If you have lots of
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GARDENING
autumn leaves, keep separate in a wire-mesh bin or plastic bags, as they take a year or more to break down. Waste rots down faster and is kept tidy in a compost bin: always have at least two so one “cooks” whilst the other fills. The classic design is of wood, about a cubic metre in size: buy readymade or make your own. However, a bin made of four wooden shipping pallets tied together works pretty well, and is free – always a plus! While big is good, small can work well too. A couple of years ago I trialled a range of smaller bins for a feature in BBC Gardeners’ World magazine, with very interesting results. The plastic ‘cones’ worked OK; small wooden bins were a bit of a waste of space; but the costlier and well-insulated models were streets ahead in performance, particularly the ‘Green Johanna’ that could take cooked food waste too.
Seasonal jobs - Once all the leaves have fallen, take a hard look at the structure of your garden. Now’s the time to take out shrubs that don’t pull their weight and replant so borders look great next year. - Rejuvenate big clumps of herbaceous perennials by lifting, dividing and replanting. Discard the old centre of the clump. - Cover bare veg beds to prevent winter rains washing out nutrients. I like to spread compost or manure on mine, then cover with cardboard, landscape fabric or polythene. Remove in spring and the ground is in perfect sowing condition. - Order seed catalogues to browse at leisure on winter evenings. Sue Fisher
Sue Fisher is a garden designer and writer based on the Bere Peninsula. Tel 01822 841895. Email: suefisher@talktalk.net Website: www. suefishergardens.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON
DECEMBER Open until 31 December First World War exhibition at Cotehele
Price: winter admission £5 (members and under 18s free) Not many people are aware that Cotehele House is a war memorial. To commemorate the centenary of the First World War we are holding an exhibition in the House of items loaned from members of the local community, who have generously shared their stories with us. The exhibition will be on until the end of 2018. This year’s theme is ‘Over by Christmas’. Open 11am-4pm
Open until 31 December Christmas garland and decorated hall - Cotehele
The Garland is complete, the log fire is burning - come and join us in the Great Hall to admire this year’s creation and enjoy music by a variety of local choirs and musicians performing under it. 11am-4pm daily. Price: winter admission £5 (members and under 18s free)
12 & 13 December On a Cold Winter’s Night
A new play for Christmas inspired by medieval mystery plays. St Michael & All Angels, Princetown Ballet, Tap & Modern Dance Classes for Children aged 3 to 18 Years.
• Adult classes held in Tap dancing • Adult BalletBeFit classes, energising workout to strengthen core, tone body & improve posture Classes held Mondays and Thursdays
Full details www.misstrudi.co.uk
or contact Trudi Massey (Principal A.N.A.T.D Ballet and Tap)
01822 618137
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Fri 7.30pm, Sat 4.30pm £5 advance, £6 on door, under 11s free. For details and tickets see www.tinyurl.com/onacoldwinter
12 December Holly Wreath Making Workshop – Buckland Abbey
Join a local floristry professional whilst you create your own holly wreath to take home. All equipment provided, bring your own extra decorations and fresh flowers too. Booking essential, £40 per person. 10am-1pm and 2-5pm
13 & 14 December Children’s Christmas Special – Morwellham Quay Visit Santa in his underground grotto, listen to a Christmas story, dress up in Victorian costume, join in making Christmas Crafts and indulge with mince pies. Book online for 10% discount: www.morwellhamquay.org Children & Adults £8.95 to include train ride
14 December Christmas Gift Fair – Morwellham Quay
Come and browse the stalls of local handmade gifts and one-off presents to buy for the special people in your life. www.morwellhamquay.org
17 December Carols at the Castle – Pentillie
Come along for some good old fashioned carol singing at Pentillie Castle at 6.30pm. Warming winter refreshments available. No booking required. This is a FREE event, but a donation in the charity pot would be gratefully received! Proceeds will go to Kernow Young Carers. For more information please
contact the office on 01579 350044.
18th December Civil Service Retirement Fellowship, Princetown Christmas Lunch and Party.
Entertainment by Geoff Lakeman and Speakeasy. Grand Draw commences at 12.00 noon in the Prince of Wales, Princetown. Lunch will be served at 1.00pm. Booking essential. Call Mike on 01822890799 for more details and/or reservations.
20 December Let’s Wassail - Cotehele
Pack your trombone and join in for this pagan festival to scare away the evil spirits in our orchards. Why not come along in fancy dress? Assistance dogs only please. 11.30am Free Admission
21 December Christmas Carols – Great Barn, Buckland Abbey
Mount Kelly Choral Society (under the baton of their new Musical Director: Maria Collier). Between 2 and 4pm.
21 December Candlelight Carols (6pm) – Sampford Spiney Church
Do join us in our beautiful moorland church for traditional carols and we now have an effective heating system thanks to the generosity of many of you!
22 December The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! – Pentillie Castle
Squashbox Theatre will be hosting a festive children’s puppet show on Monday 22nd December. Packed with songs, editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
puppet comedy and quizzes, the show is suitable for children aged 5+. Starts at 3pm. Duration: 1 hour. Refreshments available. Tickets: £3.50 child, £5 adult, £15 family (2A 2C). Booking is essential as numbers are limited. Book tickets online or ring the office on 01579 350044. www.pentillie.co.uk
31 December Retro Vegas New Year’s Eve Ball – Moorland Garden Hotel Take a trip back in time to discover Las Vegas’ golden age of style at our Retro Vegas Ball. Hark back to the 1950’s heyday of the legendary ‘Rat Pack’, the glittering Hollywood silver screen, cocktail dresses, mobsters and cocktails at the roulette table. Arrive with a Passionfruit Martini and canapés, before being seated for a wonderful five course gala
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dinner created by our team of talented chef’s, with half a bottle of wine per person and disco entertainment until 1am. At midnight Big Ben will count us down to the New Year with a glass of Champagne for all. For more information please contact the Events Team on 01822 852245 or www. moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk
JANUARY 13 January Apple Tree Pruning Workshops - Cotehele
An introduction to apple pruning with Cotehele’s Orchard Officer, Chris Groves. Part theory, part practical. Tools provided. Book early to avoid disappointment on 01579351346. Dates: Tuesday 13 January or
Thursday 15 January; 10:30am Price: All Tickets £15
14 January Volunteer day - Cotehele
What are you doing in 2015? Do you have an interest in working with us in Cotehele house, gardens, reception, Mill or in the great outdoors on the Estate? Come along for a chat, tea, cake and to meet the team and learn how you can help look after Cotehele. Booking not necessary 11am-3pm Price: Free
14 January Dartmoor Decorative and Fine Arts Society (DDFAS) Lecture
James Russell talks about the fascinating artist Edward Seago and his journey following the circus, ballet and gypsies through his many landscapes as well as following Prince Phillip
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WHAT’S ON to Antartica. Charter Hall in Okehampton. Coffee and delicious brownies are served from 9.45 with the lecture starting promptly at 10.30. For a voluntary donation of £10 (refunded if you join the Society) non members are very welcome. For more information please contact Sara-jane Cumming on 01822 860281
FEBRUARY St Luke’s Hospice Coffee Mornings
A coffee morning with your friends, W.I groups, toddler groups, churches or local businesses. Anyone can join and help raise money for St Luke’s. So dig out your best crockery, turn on the kettle and get the whole community drinking coffee for St Luke’s this February.
To request your coffee morning pack, call 01752 246597 or visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/ coffee
5 February Civil Service Retirement Fellowship, Princetown
Join us for a friendly chat. Our guest speaker will be Simon Dell who will be presenting his illustrated talk entitled ‘ The History of Dartmoor Prison’. Anyone who is retired is welcome. Meet at 12.30pm in the Prince of Wales, Princetown
6 February VIA – Oliver Meech – Brentor Village Hall Oliver Meech with ‘When Magic and Science Collide’
presents a fun-filled fusion of magic, mirth and mind-reading, so expect amazing tricks inspired by astounding science! 8pm. Tickets from 01822 810600 and r.blower@btinternet.com BYO.
8 February VIA - Puppetcraft with Monkey – Milton Abbot Village Hall
Devon-based Puppetcraft are back with a brand new show for families. Monkey is based on the Chinese epic story and the script is written by the wonderful poet Michael Rosen. 2.30pm. Tickets £5 (child/conc £3 and family £15) from 01822 870834. Refreshments available.
The fascinating Oliver Meech brings his unique brand of comedy magic to Brentor. Oliver
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11 Februay Dartmoor Decorative and Fine Arts Society (DDFAS) Lecture
The Irish Country House – lecture by Tom Duncan. Charter Hall in Okehampton. Coffee and delicious brownies are served from 9.45 with the lecture starting promptly at 10.30. For a voluntary donation of £10 (refunded if you join the Society) non members are very welcome. For more information please contact Sara-jane Cumming on 01822 860281
14 February Vintage Fair – Tavistock Town Hall 14 February View from a Window Cotehele
This exhibition in Cotehele Gallery features Trevor Price and Joan Bose amongst a showcase of new work by British and West Country artists. Dates: 14 February - 29 May, 11am-4pm Free event (normal admission charges apply)
14 February Apple grafting weekend Cotehele
A weekend of apple grafting workshops with more than 20 local apple varieties to choose from and we’ll show you how to do it. Take away a grafted tree for only a fiver. Booking not necessary. Saturday 14 February to Sunday 15 February, 11am-4pm Normal admission charges apply + £1 graft material, £2 root stock, £2 workshop (limit two trees per workshop)
16 February Build and fly a kite - Cotehele We’ll show you how to build a kite in the Education Room then you’ll be able to go outside and tick off no 7 in your National Trust 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ scrapbook when you fly it high in the sky above the bowling lawn 11am Free event (normal admission charges apply)
17 - 19 February Bushcraft for Kids - Cotehele
This activity has been specially designed by our partner Serious Outdoor Skills to be fun, informative and hands-on where
you will learn some survival, bushcraft and wilderness skills. There will be numerous outdoor activities to keep you rngaged, active and entertained. Booking Essential. 10am-12pm or 1pm-3:30pm Price: All Tickets £6
26 February VIA – JT Collective – Lydford Nicholls Hall JT Collective bring a mixture of original and traditional songs and tunes played in an acoustic style with a heavy emphasis on Bluegrass, Irish and Americana. 7.30pm. Tickets £8 (child/conc £6) from 01822 820345 and 01822 820589. Refreshments available.
27 February VIA - Orichalcum World of Brass with Brassed Up!– Peter Tavy
The ultimate Brass concert! The versatile and amazingly skilled James Stretton with pianist Iain Jackson present a concert of unforgettable brass music. Peter Tavy Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 (child £3.50; conc £6; family £20) from 01822 810552 and 01822 810123. Refreshments available.
Free fundrasing pack includes: recipes; posters; balloons; fun games and a collection box.
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WHAT’S ON 27 February VIA - Francesca Millican– Slater with Me, Myself and Miss Gibbs – Mary Tavy
Part detective noir, part lecture, part personal biography, artist Francesca Millican- Slater investigates the message on a postcard sent 100 years ago. Mary Tavy Coronation Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 (child £4; conc £5.50; family £20). Tea and coffee available. BYO Drink/Food
28 February WALKSTOCK – Walkhampton Memorial Hall (7.30pm)
Local bands play to an overwhelmingly appreciative crowd. For most band members it is the highlight of their gigging year! Tickets: £8 available from Pat Woodgate (details by e mailing poshpat@live.com) Other details: Bring your own drink.
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Fancy dress theme (optional) come as anything beginning with the letter ‘T’.
MARCH 13 March St Joseph’s School Choir
Rock Methodist Church, Yelverton will be hosting the wonderful choir from St Joseph’s School. Light entertainment with a varied programme. All welcome. Tickets on the door. £6. 7.30pm
15 March Gardens Open for Mothering Sunday – Pentillie Castle and Estate
Come and explore the restored Mausoleum (and learn about the exciting discovery of Sir James Tillie’s hidden vault!). Visit the restored kitchen gardens with
revamped greenhouses and walls. Not to mention many of the overgrown woodlands and paths that have been cleared of rhododendron ponticum and laurel, so that you can explore more of Pentillie. £6 entry per person (children under 12 free). No booking required. Plant sales. Refreshments available in the castle.
All event listings are FREE.
Send us event details for our Spring issue (mid March to May) by Friday 7th February editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS SERVICES St Eustachius, Tavistock, St Paul’s Gulworthy & St Michaels, Brent Tor Sunday 14 December St Paul’s, Gulworthy - 6.30 pm Carol Service
Thursday 25 December St Paul’s, Gulworthy - 11 am Holy Communion
Sunday 21 December St Eustachius’ – 6 pm Candlelit Festival of Lessons and Carols
Thursday 25 December St Michael’s, Brent Tor - 11am CHICKS Carol Service
Wednesday 24 December St Eustachius’ - 3.30 pm Children’s crib service
Thursday 25 December St Michael’s, Brent Tor - 3 pm Carol Service
Wednesday 24 December St Eustachius’ - 5 pm Children’s crib service
New church services in Whitchurch
Wednesday 24 December Christ Church, Brentor - 11 pm Holy Communion Wednesday 24 December St Eustachius’ - 11.30 pm Midnight Mass Thursday 25 December St Eustachius’ - 9.30 am Family Communion
We are celebrating our third anniversary and would like to thank all our customers for their support.
St. James’ C. of E. Church has been meeting since April in Whitchurch Primary School on Sunday afternoons at 4pm with tea & cake at 3.30. The services are very informal & everybody is welcome! On the 4th Sunday of every month is Messy Church (3.30-5.30pm) with ‘fun activities, crafts & games, followed by songs, short talk & meal together’. All welcome (donations welcomed).
YOUR LOCAL QUALITY CAR SPECIALIST, WHERE CUSTOMER CARE COMES FIRST With over 40 years experience in the motor trade, our company aim is to give customers outstanding service and peace of mind. All our cars undergo a thorough and comprehensive inspection on point of sale and if required, a new MOT. All our cars are professionally valeted and come with a dealer guarantee.
Tavistock Motor Company, Pixon Lane, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 8DH T: 01822 616116 E: tavistockmotorco@hotmail.co.uk www.tavistockmotorco.co.uk www.tavylinks.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON EXTRA
Every November gardeners, volunteers and visitors at Cotehele, the National Trust house near Saltash, create a 60ft long Christmas garland using tens of thousands of flowers grown all year long on the estate. The giant swag then hangs in the Great Hall throughout the festive season. Each year the garland is different, depending on which of the specially grown flowers have done well. This year we have 31,000 flowers, but some years, due to the weather, we get as low as 20,000 – with 30,000 being the ideal. The Christmas garland can be seen daily from 11am-4pm until 31 December (except 25 and 26 December). Winter admission is £5 (members and under 18s free); Also free entry for locals with a PL postal code between 27 - 31 December– bring a utility bill. Check the website to find out when choirs will be performing under the garland and find out what else is on at Christmas: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehelechristmas or telephone 01579 351346.
Whatever the event, whatever the budget or wherever you are, the flowers, their display and arrangement will match the mood and enhance the atmosphere. It’s the personal touch that makes us different!
A Scent-Sation, 30 Brook Street, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0HE
Tel: 01822 612412 www.ascent-sation.co.uk www.tavylinks.co.uk
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MUSIC & ART
You may or may not have come across a ‘Villages in Action’ production, but they have been supporting our communities and village halls with superb travelling productions, performers or live bands for over 20 years. Villages in Action (VIA) is a rural touring scheme that covers five of the rural Districts of Devon. VIA help to bring top quality national and often international, professional performances and workshops at affordable prices to communities through a network of local volunteer promoters. VIA is funded jointly by Devon County Council and the Arts Council.
Comedy magic from Oliver Meech with ‘When Magic and Science Collide’
Tickets £5 (child/conc £3 and family £15) from 01822 870834. Refreshments available.
The fascinating Oliver Meech brings his unique brand of comedy magic to Brentor. Oliver presents a fun-filled fusion of magic, mirth and mind-reading, so expect amazing tricks inspired by astounding science! He’s performed at the London 2012 Olympics and The Science Museum, and when not Fringeing, he’s a regular on London’s Comedy, Cabaret and Science scenes. Brentor Village Hall – Friday 6th February 2015 at 8pm. Tickets from 01822 810600 and r.blower@btinternet.com BYO.
Bluegrass music from the JT Collective
Puppetcraft with Monkey!
JT Collective bring a mixture of original and traditional songs and tunes played in an acoustic style with a heavy emphasis on Bluegrass, Irish and Americana. From
Favourites with VIA audiences for many years, we are delighted that Devon-based Puppetcraft are back with a brand new show for families. Monkey is based on the Chinese epic story and the script is written by the wonderful poet Michael Rosen, Children’s Laureate 2007–2009. Stunning string puppets, antique shadow puppets and live music tell the story of the birth and comic adventures of Monkey, the fantastical and rebellious super-hero. Milton Abbot Village Hall – Sunday 8th February 2015 at 2.30pm.
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blisteringly fast tunes to slow ballads, this versatile line-up are sure to impress. The band is led by superb bluegrass guitarist Jason Titley, arguably the UK’s finest Bluegrass guitarist. The trio is completed by bassist/ vocalist Ben Somers and Leanne Thorose on violin & vocals. Lydford Nicholls Hall – Thursday 26th February 2015 at 7.30pm. Tickets £8 (child/conc £6) from 01822 820345 and 01822 820589. Refreshments available.
editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
MUSIC & ART
Orichalcum World of Brass with Brassed Up! The ultimate Brass concert! The versatile and amazingly skilled James Stretton with pianist Iain Jackson present a concert of unforgettable brass music. Using all theinstruments in all of the styles from Classical to Jazz, from silly to serious, their innovative and imaginative approach will blow you away! James has worked for orchestras including the CBSO, RLPO and London Concert Orchestra. A regular performer with the Royal Shakespeare Company, he has performed in several productions, most recently in Romeo & Juliet and Julius Caesar. This is a family show guaranteed to entertain, educate & enthral. Peter Tavy Village Hall – Friday 27th February 2015 at 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 (child £3.50; conc £6; family £20) from 01822 810552 and 01822 810123. Refreshments available.
www.tavylinks.co.uk
Francesca Millican–Slater with Me, Myself and Miss Gibbs Part detective noir, part lecture, part personal biography, artist Francesca Millican- Slater investigates the message on a postcard sent 100 years ago and finds herself obsessed by the life of the woman that received it. What happens when she starts tracing a history that isn’t her own? In Me, Myself and Miss Gibbs, Francesca takes the audience with her on this intricate, fascinating journey, gently questioning how we remember those that wentbefore us and how we might like to be remembered ourselves. Francesca’s compelling writing style and humorous presence makes this an engaging and highly enjoyable one-woman show that offers something for everyone. Mary Tavy Coronation Hall – Friday 27th February 2015 at 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 (child £4; conc £5.50; family £20). Tea and coffee available and please bring your own food and drink.
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NATIONAL TRUST
The festive season has arrived and here at Buckland Abbey, Garden & Estate we have lots of events planned to get all the family into the Christmas spirit this winter. Throughout December we invite all to step back in time as we deck the halls and transform the Abbey into a Victorian home. See the kitchen busy preparing for Christmas dinner, play traditional games and look out for characters from years past sharing their stories of spending Christmas at the Abbey. Don’t forget to see our hand crafted garland; hanging from the Georgian Staircase, which features over 400 handmade decorations by our resident costume group. If you’ve left your Christmas shopping to the very last minute, head to our shop for hundreds of gift ideas. With toys for the children, books for the grown-ups and local products too, there is something for everyone. National Trust membership also makes an ideal gift, giving the beholder free entry to all National Trust properties, countryside estates, car parks plus more for a whole year. Pop into our reception for more details.
Buckland Abbey, Garden & Estate is open for the festive season between Friday 5 – Sunday 21 December from 11.30am – 4.30pm. The estate then is tucked away for the winter and returns as fresh as a daisy from Saturday 14 February 2015. For more details on all our events, please visit our website, call us on 01822 853607, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. Santa Claus at the Abbey Saturday 6, 13, 20 and Sunday 7, 14, 21 December, 12noon4pm Bring the kids along (and big kids too!) to see Santa Claus in his grotto before he heads off to deliver his presents. Normal admission plus £4.50 per person, includes gift. Murder at the Christmas Abbey Saturday 6 December, 7-10.30pm Fancy yourself a sleuth? See if you can identify the culprit at an evening of murder, mayhem and festiveness! Booking essential, £39 per person. Includes three course meal.
© National Trust 2014. The National Trust is a Registered charity no. 205846.
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editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
NATIONAL TRUST
The shop at Lydford Gorge is open Wednesday to Sunday until 28 December, 11am–3.30pm selling a range of Christmas goodies from Christmas essentials such as cards and crackers to festive foodie treats and stocking fillers. There are gifts for all tastes and interests from books to ladies luxury bags, scarves, hand creams and fragrance. There is a range of home ware from photo frames to gorgeous rugs and throws. If a loved one enjoys the great outdoors there are fleeces, three in one coats, socks, hats and gloves.
face inspections, major repairs and replacement of paths and steps. All of the tools and equipment has to be carried into the gorge by hand, making even the smallest of tasks a lengthy and tiring process.
©
The waterfall can also be at its best during the winter months with higher rainfall and in very cold weather icicles can be seen hanging from the rock faces around the waterfall. The rest of the footpaths through the gorge are closed because of reduced daylight hours and essential maintenance work. The ranger team are very busy over the winter carrying out rock
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The short walk to the Whitelady Waterfall is open all year and is a great walk to blow away the cobwebs and stretch the legs. The waterfall tea-room is open at weekends until 28 December, 11am-3pm for yummy cakes and hot drinks.
www.tavylinks.co.uk
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FOOD & WINE
A delicious and ‘therapeutic’ recipe to make this Christmas. With thanks to Buckland Monachorum Community Bread Making Group. Yum! Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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zest 1 orange, plus juice ½ 4 tbsp Cointreau 85g dried cranberries 85g mixed dried fruits 550g strong white bread flour, plus extra for kneading 2 x 7g sachets easy-bake dried yeast 85g golden caster sugar good grating of nutmeg 85g butter, plus extra for the tin 1 large egg 250ml warm milk sunflower oil, for the bowl 25g pistachios, chopped 300g golden marzipan
Method
1. Stir together the zest and juice, Cointreau, cranberries and mixed fruit. Then mix the flour, yeast, caster sugar and nutmeg in another large bowl. Add ½ tsp salt and rub in the butter. Beat the egg with the warm milk, then pour onto the flour mix. Use your hands to bring the mixture together as a soft dough. 2. Tip onto a work surface and knead for a 2 mins, adding a little flour only if you need to stop it sticking. Oil the bowl, return the dough and cover with cling film. Leave to rise for 45 mins-1 hr in a warm place until doubled. 3. Line and butter a large roasting tin with baking parchment. Roll the risen dough
out firmly to a long strip about 70 x 18cm. Add the pistachios to the soaked fruit, then scatter the mix along the dough. Roll the marzipan into a sausage the same length as the longest side of the dough, then place it down the centre of the dough and roll up together firmly, a bit like making a sausage roll. Curl into a round donut shape. Cover with cling film and leave to rise for 45 mins1 hr until really well risen. 4. Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. Bake for 15-20 mins until golden. Leave to cool. Brush with melted butter and dredge with icing sugar, or make a thin icing and drizzle over.
editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
FOOD & WINE
Charles Steevenson shares his advice for a very merry Christmas!
Expectations run high, possibly too high as we draw near to Christmas Day. Perhaps I can help demystify the often ominous task of recommending appropriate wine which not only compliments your Christmas fare, suits your budget, but also ticks the ‘To do Box’ and leaves time for other seasonal tasks. Can there be a more invigorating start to the festivities than a glass of highly charged Bucks Fizz as you explore the contents of bulging stockings & marvel at Santa’s generosity. Traditionally made with two thirds Champagne & one third orange juice ‌ yes a Champagne base ideal, but the quality of Bucks Fizz is more dependent on the quality of the orange juice rather than the fizz. A sound Cava, Prosecco Spumante or indeed any sound dry bubbly wine will do, thus leaving the Champagne to be a starring feature later in the day. Depending on your Christmas day routine, can there be a more festive welcome home after your annual visit to church than a smouldering glass of Mulled Wine? Make your own or try my ready to go traditional German Gluhwein, just heat & serve ‌ so easy ‌ so popular. ‘Please can we open our presents www.tavylinks.co.uk
now?’ A plea from the excited children, how can you refuse – a cue for the grown-ups to tuck into an enticing glass of Champagne – a handy hint, the word Champagne does not guarantee quality, so choose with care! And now for the most eagerly anticipated meal of the year, the full Christmas feast. To complement the table, I would suggest a Pinot Noir, the noble red grape of Burgundy. Soft, succulent, hints of damson, truffle, possibly toffee and spice, not too heavy & great with turkey & ham alike. Alas, unless budgets are high, I would steer you towards a Pinot from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa or California. Burgundy? not sure, often overpriced & destined to disappoint. If Pinot Noir is not your thing, it’s time to explore the Clarets ‌ whatever you go for, don’t overwhelm your food with a huge blockbuster Red. For the White, where do I start, for me a classic wood influenced White Burgundy – again options from the Southern hemisphere will not disappoint, maybe too a dry German Riesling, so uplifting and yummy ‌ your choice. And now ‌ the Christmas pud, for me the climax to the meal. Yes, a luscious, sweet ever so smart Sauternes would be great. My choice, a Rutherglen Muscat from Australia. Fortified, intense raisin & dried fruit overtones, our Campbell’s Muscat proudly displays two gold medals & voted the best wine not only with Christmas pud but also Stilton cheese & rich chocolate. ‌ Nearly forgot, Port. No Christmas is complete without a Port. My handy hint, go for a Tawny Port, serve it chilled, a great way to revitalise what
might be a slightly over indulged & jaded palate ‌ the end of a perfect day. Charles Steevenson
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MAISIE’S WALK
A direct walk, with fabulous views, above and along the River Walkham. Approx 5 miles, with steep climbs and uneven terrain. Caution: If the red flag is flying, do not walk past the Military Firing Range marked by the Range poles. The walk starts from the bottom of Cox Tor, opposite the main Pork Hill car park. Take the steep climb up to Middle Staple Tor, and from there, traverse diagonally below Great Staple Tor, picking up one of the many tracks
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MAISIE’S WALK
leading down to the Walkham River. Keep above the water leat flowing above the Walkham. Leats were built to deliver water to lower ground, by utilising the natural contours of the land and sublimely, create the illusion they are flowing uphill. You are aiming towards a row of red and white Firing Range poles in the far distance, which descend vertically down to the Walkham River. If the Red Flag is flying, you are safe from firing as long as you don’t enter into the military zone beyond the poles! On reaching these poles, drop down to join the grassy banks of the River, and begin the return journey along the river, (watch out for bogs!) You will reach the intake and source of the Grimstone and Sortridge Leat, which would have carried water to the farms and mines in the Walkham Valley. Continue along the path of the leat until you reach a wall which crosses the river valley from Great Mis Tor. Now begin your climb towards Great Staple Tor, where once reached, you can drop down back down to your car. Elaine Sylvester
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Maisie’s walks are written by Elaine Sylvester who runs Love Dartmoor. Elaine is a Dartmoor Guide and Nordic Walking Instructor.
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BIKE TRAIL
Crock of Gold Leaving from Princetown and heading East onto the moors, this is a challenging 17 mile route taking in some beautiful sights and hidden gems. There are 4 river crossings via stepping stones so please be careful on those! Starting from Princetown, we take the road towards two bridges. After 300 m take the bridlepath through the gate to the right. This trail leads us through the farmyards at Tor Royal, over open moorland past the Crock of Gold cairn circle to the ruins at Swincombe and our first river crossing.
During the summer when the river is low, it is possible to cross on the stepping stones, and hidden in the valley this is a beautiful place to stop for a while. The trail continues straight over the road and up over the hill to Hexworthy. Here we drop down onto the road and veer right for a while to the top of Combestone Tor, time for another break to take in the stunning views out over the valley towards Dartmeet.
Taking the bridlepath just back from the top of the Tor, we head straight down the front of the Tor towards Dartmeet, there is a tricky descent just before the second of our river crossings over the West Dart river, follow the path up to the road. Down to the right there is normally an ice cream van in the car park, so this is an ideal time to take a break and enjoy the scenery. There is now a long road climb as we head west, back up the hill towards Princetown. After Pixieland at the top of the hill we take a right into the woods and take the bridlepath through Brimpts farm back down to the river, a lovely spot and perfect for a little dip on a hot day. Further along is the third of our stepping stones, which then leads to a climb through Babeny, back onto the moors then descending down into laughter hole. This is the last of our river crossings, from here we head up a tricky rocky climb, veering left up the bridlpath at the farm gate and then straight over the moors below laughter tor. At the end of the trail, take a right along the road, then left into the Prince Hall hotel, the trail then heads past the adventure centre and back onto the moors.
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BIKE TRAIL Keep taking right turns when you come to a bridlepath junction, and it will come back onto the bridlepath we headed out on, back through Tor Royal and on into Princetown, and time for a well earned pint in the pub or coffee at the café.
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At Rockin Bikes we are always very keen to talk about trails and routes with you so if you’re new to the area or just after some inspiration for your next ride feel free to pop in for a chat.
A range of bikes, clothing and accessories to suit all needs Come and see us at our new larger shop to find all your perfect Christmas gifts. We would like to wish all of our customers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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A DAY OUT TO...
Sometimes we need reminding of the beauty that is right on our doorstep. That’s why in this issue we’re having A Day Out To…Tavistock!
Tavistock is so steeped in history and Devonian culture that omnipresent fast-food chain McDonald’s was driven out of town back in 2006 (and I doubt even a McPasty would have won us over). It is a history still in the making after the recent purchase of the town centre’s grade II listed 19th century Guildhall by the council. The Guildhall was one of the first purpose-built police station and magistrate court complexes, and even influenced the design of the Old Bailey in London. Ironically, the building which was initially created to control rowdy local miners may now be turned into a gateway centre for The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site. Tavistock has an impressive mining history; we use the term ‘Stannary Town’ fairly casually, but this title reflects the fact that Tavistock was once one of Europe’s richest sources of tin. By the 19th century tin had waned but copper was booming, as was the nearby mining village
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of Morwellham. You can’t get much closer to the area’s mining heritage than a visit to this open-air museum, and a trip down into a former working mine. Informative tour guides explain the role of mining in the village and the wider area, and the rest of this charming museum allows you to experience Victorian life in rural Devon. Of course Tavistock’s history is not limited to mining; Sir Francis Drake was born around 1540 on the site of what is now Crowndale Farm, near Tavistock College. Plymouth Hoe may be home to the more famous Drake statue, but the original stands proudly in the middle of the roundabout on Plymouth road. In the other direction, opposite the striking Town Hall and Guildhall buildings, stands St Eustachius Church. The span of the Church’s history is mind boggling; in the churchyard you can see ruins of Tavistock Abbey, once one of the wealthiest Abbeys in Devon, founded in 961 with the accompanying church built in the 13th century. Despite editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
A DAY OUT TO... seeing centuries of war, and being rebuilt several times, St Eustachius still stands proudly in the centre of the town. The tower clock plays different melodies daily, so listen out for the likes of Auld Lang Syne! Tavistock clearly has a rich history, much of which can still be seen today, but perhaps one of the characteristics locals are proudest of is the town’s impressive array of independent businesses and markets. In 1105 Henry I granted a Royal Charter to the monks of Tavistock Abbey to run a weekly Pannier Market (named after goods-carrying baskets), a market that remarkably still runs to this day selling handmade crafts, food, books, clothing and much more. A Farmer’s Market, voted best in the Southwest, is held on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Saturday of the month in Bedford Square, selling fresh and local food. If you can’t find what you’re after in the markets, Tavistock has no shortage of quality butchers, greengrocers, cheesemongers, organic specialists and many more businesses providing the best of local produce. Cafés and restaurants are also abundant, from sit-down dinners at places like The Bedford Hotel and the Terrace to the many pasty shops dotted around town (we won’t start a debate about which is the best!). On the high street, and in all the nooks and crannies of the town, you’ll find almost every kind of shop imaginable, many of them unique to Tavistock. Dickensian Evening, held on the last Friday of November, is a shopping event not to be missed; see the switching on of the Christmas lights and shop keepers dressed up in Victorian clothing, whilst getting some Christmas shopping done. The Town Hall regularly hosts vintage and craft fairs and flea markets as well as music and dance events, and even more music and theatre events are held at The Wharf arts centre, which also has its own cinema. www.tavylinks.co.uk
Tavistock is an ideal starting-point for walks and bike rides, whether you want a gentle 1 ¼ mile stroll along the Tavistock Viaduct, or an epic 21 mile cycle (or walk) along the Drake’s Trail to Plymouth. The Moorland Guides organisation also runs regular guided walks around the town, or take yourself off for a stroll over nearby Whitchurch Down to the, affectionately named, ‘The Pimple’. This three-sided folly sits on the entrance to a former underground reservoir, and was created by Edwin Lutyens, the architect who designed Castle Drogo. From here you’ll get great views of the moor and beyond. We may be a tad biased here at Moor and Tavy Links, but the evidence speaks for itself – Tavistock is a fantastic place for, not just one, but many days out. Bethany Miall
Based in Crapstone, we are a visiting computer “help” service. We come to where the problem is, which is usually the best way to fix things; it certainly beats lugging the culprit down to us to be told the fault is not there! We are now in our 12th year so we have a wealth of experience in repairing just about anything and setting up new equipment too. We sell computers and laptops from recognised major manufacturers; we do not “build” computers and we do not sell secondhand “reconditioned” equipment. Our normal service will provide you with your choice of computer and our expertise to transfer everything from the old machine to the new one including set up of email accounts and printers. We also sell Microsoft Office software at High Street prices and we recommend, sell and install Norton Anti-virus, but we are happy to install an alternative if you prefer. We can offer a low cost teaching service, provided by Carol, our Office Manager. This takes place in your home on your own computer, working at a pace to suit you and is at a much cheaper rate than a technician’s visit.
The office is now open 9-5 every day.
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www.chezvouspc.com & help@chezvouspc.com 47
GREAT ESCAPES
Brochures and literature associated with Bovey Castle proudly announce as their strapline ‘You’ve Arrived’. Well it certainly feels that way when arriving at the grand front entrance to Bovey Castle.
A latter-day footman, dressed in plus fours, tweed jacket and brogues, will greet you and politely announce that he will take your keys and park your car for you; heaven knows what he made of my rather clapped out mud splattered little Peugeot! From here on in, the transportation to opulent ‘Lord or Lady of the Manor’ status begins. I hate to use the synonym ‘Downton Abbey’, but if you can conjure that image then it describes the setting, the interior decoration and the extremely attentive staff all too well. Bovey Castle was built in 1890 by Frederick, the son of William Henry Smith (WH Smith) after his father purchased the 5,000 acre estate from the Earl of Devon for £103,000. Frederick clearly had an eye for design and a taste for opulence. The interior decoration boasts a stunning Jacobean style staircase, ornate plaster ceilings, oak paneling, carved stone archways, enormous stone fireplaces as well as a drawing room by Scottish neoclassical architect, Robert Adam. It became a hotel in 1930 (after it’s sale to help pay large death duties) and has since undergone many changes and additions, under its various ownerships – but still maintaining the feeling of lavish country house. Today the hotel boasts 64 unique and sumptuous bedrooms, drawing rooms, a library, dining room, private dining 48
rooms, 14 holiday lodges, a luxury indoor swimming pool, spa facilities, bistro restaurant, tennis courts and of course it’s world renowned 18 hole golf course. In 2008 the hotel underwent a multimillion pound refurbishment by Annabel Elliot, giving every inch of the hotel the stunning, elegant, country house feel it so truly deserves. Within the last year the hotel has changed hands once again and is now owned by Peter Rigby as part of his Eden Hotels Collection, with further plans for upgrading and renovating. During my afternoon visit I was offered a tour of the hotel and its various Classic and State bedrooms and as such I would offer a few words of advice; if you are tempted to dip in to your holiday funds for a special weekend away, spend as much as your piggy bank will allow, on your choice of room. All the rooms are exquisitely furnished but the standard classic rooms are a little on the pokey side, with small windows and unexciting views, accessed via a narrow and slightly shabby back staircase. However, if you choose a Valley Room to a Grand State Room (with it’s huge roll top bath and uninterrupted views of the golf course and the moor beyond), accessed via the main staircase, you will definitely feel ‘You’ve Arrived’. Each room comes with all the expected trimmings; piles of fluffy white towels, bathrobes, slippers and a basket full of bath time goodies. However, if your piggy bank really doesn’t want to relinquish its contents, then take the 30 minute drive over the moor one afternoon and indulge yourself with one of Bovey Castle’s rather decadent ‘Afternoon Teas’ in front of a roaring fire in superbly squishy sofas. (Afternoon Tea from £25 per head.) With dog towels and children’s wellies prominently displayed in the entrance porch, it comes as no surprise that the hotel generously welcomes children and dogs. Bovey Castle is currently offering various ‘Christmas Experience’ options for stays during the festive period. For more information visit: www.boveycastle.com Lizzie Watt editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
GREAT ESCAPES
Marrakech painting holiday and short breaks
The great thing about Morocco is that it’s so near the UK (3 hrs flying) yet so totally different. With its mix of Berber, Arab and French heritages it is also a kaleidoscope of cultures with a strong tradition of hospitality, great food and the best café-style people-watching. Marrakech stands on a plain near the Atlas Mountains and marks the terminus of the ancient trans-Sahara camel caravan routes. Tablets of salt, gold bars, massive ivory tusks and gangs of slaves used to find their way to Europe via Marrakech. Nowadays it’s a hub for exploring the Medina (old town) and souks (labyrinthine covered marketplaces); the slaves are long gone, but the gold is still there! Painting Holiday: Venture Co and Bristol artist / instructor Linda Alvis have a unique painting holiday to Morocco. We join leading Berber artist Rachid Zizi and explore new techniques, styles, materials and subjects. He will guide you to his favourite spots where you can put brush to paper without being disturbed. We pack a lot into the week including time in Marrakech, the d’Agafay Desert and glorious Essaouira on the coast. Nonepainting partners welcome. Short breaks: There are heaps of riads (traditional townhouses built around a central courtyard with a fountain as centre-piece) in Marrakech: some are great, some are shoddy but all are living museums! Combine the riad with a visit to the hammam (traditional steam bath) and massage and you have a restorative weekend break. Add in a visit to the “Land of Stars” lodge in the nearby d’Agafay Desert and you’ll have a week to remember. www.tavylinks.co.uk
Traveller’s tips: the Atlas Mountains are less than 3 hrs drive from Marrakech and Essaouira on the Atlantic coast is 3 hrs in the opposite direction. We can create a tailor-made holiday from £110 per person per night, guiding you to the hidden gems and best places to stay. www.ventureco-worldwide.com mark@ventureco-worldwide.com 01822 616 191. Painting Holiday (17th to 15th Oct 2015. £1,885 incl BA flight) http://www.ventureco-worldwide.com/africa/morocco/ moroccos-madinas-sand-seas-and-sea-scapes Winter 2014/15 Marrakech Short break Special: 3 nights Dar Touyir Riad Marrakech and 2 nights in the “Land of Stars” luxury lodge, d’Agafay Desert. £445.
Tailor-made Travel est 1999
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Treks : Rides : Tours : Beach Holidays Paddons Row, Tavistock 01822 616191 www.ventureco-worldwide.com l mark@ventureco-worldwide.com 49
BUSINESS
IT FAQs
Gidon from The Technology Company answers your technology questions
Q. Do I need a strong password and what’s the best way of choosing one that I can remember?
Wi-Fi network will be subject to any blocks and filters setup, rather than having to install and configure software on each device.
We do recommend using a strong password for important online accounts like email and online banking. For other sites, just ensure the password is different to the one used for your important accounts.
To enable and setup these controls, you’ll normally start off by connecting to your router from a web browser. Check with your provider for details.
One idea for a secure password is to choose a phrase that only you know. You can include spaces and try and include capital letters and numbers. For example: It was sunny when I got married in 2002. Check your efforts using the Microsoft password checker: http:// tinyurl.com/ttcpword. If you have lots of passwords to remember try using a Password Manager like Roboform or LastPass.
Q. We have many devices connecting to the Internet, including smartphones and tablets. How do I ensure younger members of the family are browsing safely? Try and choose a broadband provider that offers router level parental controls (most do). They all call it something different, for example: BT Parental Controls; Sky Shield; Virgin Websafe and TalkTalk Homesafe. Router-level controls mean that all devices connected to your home
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Q. I’d like a portable wireless speaker to play music from my phone or tablet. What are the options and what do you recommend? Bluetooth is the most common option for battery operated wireless speakers. It will work with almost any smartphone or tablet. There is some loss in audio quality compared to lossless options like Sonos and Airplay, but Bluetooth sound quality is improving all the time. There are a range of speakers to choose from depending on your budget. The minute X-mini WE at £30 has impressive sound for its size. The Creative D100 (£60) jumps up in size but has good sound for the price. The Braven 570 (£99), Pure Jongo S3 (£109) and the rugged Braven BRV-1 (£129) all offer superb sound, good battery life and handy extra features for a little more. We’d highly recommend listening before purchase. If you have any questions now or for a future column, and for all previous articles, please visit thetechnologycompany.co.uk/linksqa.
editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
BUSINESS News from Geoffrey Cox MP
Bringing broadband to our rural communities It is no secret that those of us who are fortunate enough to live in traditional rural communities do not always have access to infrastructure which is as reliable or as comprehensive as that enjoyed by our urban neighbours. From bus routes to school funding, it is fair to say that successive governments have struggled to truly address the various issues that have faced residents of the countryside – and the South West in particular – for so many years. However, things are now, at last, changing for the better. I have written previously in this column about how decisions taken by this government mean that the rural population is now getting a better deal than ever before in different ways, and this is most certainly the case when it comes to the provision of superfast broadband. Some readers will already know about the pioneering Connecting Devon and Somerset programme. This is a public-private partnership between several local authorities and British Telecom, whose Openreach division is providing the equipment and technological expertise needed to ensure my constituents in West Devon and other communities throughout the region experience faster and more reliable internet connections at the earliest opportunity. The Government has recently announced several funding increases to further boost the speed and scope of the programme so that as many people as possible can start to enjoy superfast broadband as soon as possible. The latest commitment of an additional £22.75 million should result in 95% of premises being upgraded by 2017, and I am assured
that solutions for the remaining 5% are being investigated as a priority. If you have not yet been upgraded to superfast broadband and are unsure of when this might happen, I would encourage you to visit the Connecting Devon and Somerset website at www.connectingdevonandsomerset.co.uk. Once there, simply enter your postcode into the ‘Where and When’ box and within seconds you will be given a clear idea of whether your home address is due to be included in the rollout and, if so, how far along the installation process your local exchange is. Geoffrey Cox, MP
Do you have a Will?
Wills are cheap and simple to prepare when you consider what could go wrong if you don’t make one. If you die without a Will, you die Intestate and your estate will pass according to the Intestacy Rules, potentially benefitting those who you would not have chosen to inherit.
Do you have a Power of Attorney?
If you lose the mental capacity to make decisions, your family is not automatically entitled to deal with your affairs unless you have prepared a Lasting Power of Attorney.
For more information please contact Lucy Atwill on 01752 204444 or lucy@curtissolicitors.co.uk Offices located at Mutley Plain & Torpoint, but if you are unable to attend at the office, we offer HOME VISITS!
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COMPETITION
Christmas Quiz
H&C Lawyers are offering one lucky winner the chance to win a fabulous Crebers hamper worth £100.00. From the 11 clues given here can you work out the name of the ‘Main Character’? All entries to be sent to H&C’s offices in Gunnislake (see details opposite) by 18th December. Good Luck !
1.
This person’s character enjoyed his Christmas time hanging out with his puppet friends and was very close to our main quiz character.
4.
Their surname does not describe their character, they are the complete opposite and in fact are known for shedding a tear or two for their furry friends.
2.
Once a hero to their fellow peers and children alike, but unfortunately a lack of judgement has changed all of that for the time being at least.
5.
3.
This person’s name has a lot in common with clue number 8 and their surname is so famous they named a vehicle after them.
They have recently parted this world but share one of their names with a little animated character their last name was hopefully sprinkled on them as they left for pastures new.
6.
They just love this time of year it gives them a good excuse to eat, snuggle up and sleep for a very long time, although it means they miss the festive celebrations.
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Business and Financial Consultancy ● Your local Business specialist 52
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GREEN NEWS
Local & Community Food Feeding ourselves from afar is becoming less and less viable for all kinds of reasons. Making a change to local food, even if it’s only for part of a weekly shop, cuts down on food miles and oil use and keeps money going around our local economy. Liz Whitwell tells us of plans in our area. With busy lives and tight budgets we often tell ourselves that the supermarket is the only option. But things are changing in our area making buying local a viable choice, and there are even opportunities to get involved in growing your own. We have excellent local shops and a thriving farmer’s market in Tavistok and although they might not have the ‘BOGOF’ offers of the supermarket, they offer everyday good value and usually better quality. Food that’s full of food, not additives, makes for much better value than just comparing price per kilo. There’s now an online farmers market too, at www. tamarvalleyfoodhubs.org.uk. It’s a really easy way to get access to small, local producers without the need to visit them individually. Consumers place their order by midnight
on Tuesday and producers deliver it to the hub on Friday, ready for collection. For a small additional charge you can even have it delivered. Any producer in or around the Tamar Valley, whether a large established business or someone with a surplus from their allotment, can join and sell their food. If you’d like to get more involved in growing your own food, there are lots of different ways that communities can organise themselves, and help is available from organisations such as TGL. I’m really hoping that Chagfood’s veg box scheme can be recreated here. They rent 7 acres of farmland and, run by a professional grower, deliver affordable veg to Chagford and surrounding area. Consumers commit to a regular monthly fee and in return receive a weekly share of the harvest as a veg box. Buckland Food Growers, in Buckland Monachorum, was set up with assistance from TGL. Nearly 5 years on they’ve got around 40 families who are working in groups to produce veg, eggs, pork, honey and cider.
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“Come and enjoy a very special lunch at our beautiful hotel” Alex Polizzi
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GREEN NEWS Roots to Transition is a community growing project in Tavistock which is renovating the Rose Walk in the Meadows (the gated path running from Plymouth Road to the canal between the tennis courts and the bowling club). Volunteers have cleared the area of weeds and are cultivating a potager, (an area of both edible and ornamental plants). Anyone can help themselves to the produce that’s in season, making sure that they leave some for the next person! The scheme won a ‘Thriving’ award from the RHS and a community garden is being planned next year that will greatly expand the produce available. If you’d like to get involved with any of these schemes, or set up one of your own, you can visit the Transition Tavistock website and follow the links. Liz Whitwell is a member of Transition Tavistock, a local eco charity that seeks to bring our community together by sharing knowledge and practical ideas to use less energy and resources. Meet us at Green Drinks, 2nd Tuesday of each month, at The Union Inn, King Street, Tavistock Web www.transitiontavistock.org.uk Email transitiontavistock@gmail.com
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HISTORY
Prior to the build of Burrator dam and its subsequent reservoir, the farmed landscape looked very different. The upper hillsides were almost treeless and tracks and streams ran down the deep valley where the reservoir now sits. In the 1500s, Plymouth’s water supply came from local sources such as streams and wells within the city but as the town quickly grew these sources became inadequate and unhealthy. In 1585 the Plymouth Corporation obtained an Act of Parliament to construct a leat (a manmade six foot wide channel that is gravity fed), which would provide a direct source of water for the city from Dartmoor. Construction of the Plymouth Leat was completed by April 1591 and it became known as Drake’s Leat, after Sir Francis Drake, who had managed the project. In 1871 the 17 mile (27.4km) long leat was lined with granite to improve the flow and reduce heavy water loss. In the 1790s the Devonport Leat was constructed to channel water to the developing docks of Devonport near Plymouth. It was 24 miles (38.6km) long and remained in use until the early 1920s. By the late 1800s there were again serious problems with the water supply for Plymouth. The open leat was unable to cope with increased demand, which was made worse in winter by
snow and ice often blocking the watercourse, while in summer the water supply dried up. In 1891 a report by Plymouth Water Engineer, Edward Sandeman, recommended that a reservoir, dams and a water pipeline to Plymouth be built in the Burrator area. Once the decision on the site of the dam was made in the 1880s it was important for the Plymouth Water Corporation to acquire an extensive tract of land known as ‘the catchment area’ and thereby control the quality of the water that was to fill the reservoir. The acquisition was not completed until 1917. Granite stones marked PCWW1917 can still be found along its boundary. Work began on the main Burrator dam in 1893 and on the smaller Sheepstor Dam the following year - it took five years to complete both dams. Granite blocks for the construction of the dam were obtained from a specially opened quarry approximately 150 metres upstream from the dam site. Once they were dislodged from the rock face by normal quarrying methods they were manhandled to the adjacent stonemasons’ yard using winches and chains. Here they would be cut to the desired shape using the `feather and tare` method and then lifted into position on the dam wall by steam crane. Burrator Dam was built differently to modern dams, using gravity construction. This means that its strength relies on mass bulk to retain all that water! Before the foundations were built, a trench 15 metres deep in places was cut into the solid granite along the line of the dam. Granite core stones, known as ‘plumbs’ and weighing up to 8
56
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HISTORY
tons were then placed within the dam structure and secured with concrete. Cut granite facing stone blocks were then used on both sides of the dam. The Sheepstor Dam was built on a dividing ridge between the River Meavy and Sheepstor Brook when it was realised that water would escape over a low watershed from the new reservoir. This may look like a modest structure but it needed unexpectedly deep foundations because of soft underlying rocks. The rest of the structure consists of an earth embankment with a core of puddled clay. The dam was faced with cut granite blocks on the water side to prevent erosion.
Today Burrator Reservoir is owned, maintained and operated by South West Water, which was formed in 1989 when the water industry was privatised, and is managed by the charity South West Lakes Trust who work towards sustainable recreation, access, education and nature conservation. If you would like to learn more about the areas unique heritage come and visit the new Discovery Centre. Weekly opening times are displayed outside the centre or please ring the office on 01822 855700. For event information please view the Burrator page on the SWLT website www.swlakestrust.org.uk.
Work started on raising both the Burrator and Sheepstor Dams by three metres in December 1923 after it was identified that the water supply was insufficient for Plymouth’s needs following amalgamation with Devonport and Stonehouse in 1914. A new quarry was opened on the west side of the dam and a temporary suspension bridge was erected across Burrator Reservoir to provide access to and from Sheepstor Village. In 1970 the Sheepstor Dam was raised again to reduce the risk of a surge of water flooding Sheepstor village. Some additional heritage facts at Burrator - did you know? •
The Princetown Railway was originally a horse-drawn tramway which followed the contours of the hills and ran from Princetown to Plymouth quarries.
•
The whole area around Burrator Reservoir contains a wealth of archaeological remains, dating from 2500BC and boasts at least 150 identified historic features.
•
There are more than 20 ancient farm sites in the Burrator catchment which demonstrates the high quality of the farmland.
•
The Burrator area is especially rich in the remains of tin stamping mills
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fhistoryresearch@gmail.com www.family-historyresearch.co.uk 01822 841811 57
TOWN COUNCIL UPDATE
Councillor, Colin Rogers gives us an update of some of the building changes currently underway and planned for the future.
for it to become a modern high street public house and hotel. Plans make no change to the front exterior but internally there will be much change up stairs and down. Planning permission is being sought. Kingdom House in Plym Street, is a wonderful old building, and formerly home to the Tavistock Gazette. This building will undergo restoration works in the new year to restore this Arts and Crafts building to its former glory.
Shortly after entering Tavistock from the South (Plymouth), building work is evident all along this section of the A386. Firstly building is now underway for, yes a new supermarket, far too controversial to pass comment on, but it will open its doors in May 2015. Two roundabouts later, building work again, ‘at last’, say many, the old toll house at the end of Pixon Lane is to be a very exciting development with a European or contemporary style - depending on how you view architecture. However, its development will sit very well and will be most welcome within the diversity of buildings in Tavistock. Less than a hundred yards on, ( 33 meters in new money) more building work - the old BT building now undergoing conversion to apartments; lets hope the colour scheme cheers it up as it has always looked a rather institutionalised building, but still a great building to have in Tavistock and will be well utilised. West Street, the former Browns Hotel, planning is in progress
The diversity of buildings that forms Tavistock’s historic past is unfound in other towns across the country; from my own house I am able to view most of the roof tops of this town in a 180 degree view. The changes that have occurred over the years are very minor, thus still giving a beautiful vista. The Pannier Market under the Town Heritage Initiative (THI), will undergo major works to improve the setting and repair the roof. The Butchers hall will be restored, with the dog legged double ridge roof and roof lights, returning this unique building back to the working heritage of Tavistock. The THI has identified buildings in need of restoration - private or business - in Tavistock and owners will be able to apply to the scheme for funds to carry out works. To this end full details will be released by the council in the coming months. Bedford square - the Old Court House and Police Station are all to undergo restoration. These buildings have recently been purchased by the Town Council, with the view to secure their long term future for the benefit of the people of Tavistock. Discussions are to take place with public groups in the town as to how best to utilise these wonderful buildings. They may look a little tired at present but they are however, water tight and the heating still works, which will keep them in good stead until the consultations are complete and work can commence. So over the next few years Tavistock will undergo a transformation not seen in many a year, all to enhance this unique vibrant town we live in. Before I came to live in Tavistock I had worked in almost every major city in this country. I have experienced a great deal of appalling architectural design and development, so we should be grateful for what we have in our town of Tavistock. The works that are to proceed over the next few years will be a further legacy for future generations to admire in this wonderful town. Councillor Colin Rogers Tavistock Town Council
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LAST WORD
Malawi – one of the world’s poorest countries and the land of many volunteers, undertaking sterling work in health, education, social and environmental projects. I knew the raw facts but only gained any real understanding when I was a volunteer with the Book Bus charity in south Malawi in September. The contrast between rural primary schools in England and Malawi was stark. Here we have attractive, child-centred facilities and approaches to learning. There you find bare brick classrooms (some incomplete) or simply grass-roofed open shelters, classes of between 40 and 90 to one teacher, very few books and no equipment apart from blackboards. The Book Bus gives children the chance to enjoy books on a personal level. We met wonderful Malawian teachers but lessons inevitably comprised largely copying from the blackboard and rote learning. We were there to provide a small taste of interactive learning through shared reading and activities, impossible in their normal school day. Each day at 7am we climbed on board Matilda, our Book Bus, wonderfully adorned with illustrations by Quentin Blake (one of the charity’s trustees) and set off from our comfortable accommodation at family-run Fisherman’s Rest near Blantyre. Comfort was soon left behind, as we turned off the tarmac road for a lurching journey on deeply rutted, steep tracks to reach a remote village tucked away in the Malawian hills. The bus, decorated with African bunting, crammed full of books and creative materials, was greeted wildly enthusiastically en route and on arrival at the school. With the children in neat lines outside for assembly, we listened to their wonderful singing, soon joining in the marching song that led them to their classes. As the sun rose higher, we read with small groups of children, the children each holding their own copy of the book – a delightful novelty for them. Conditions were far from ideal: sitting on mats in the shade of a tree or building, often with chickens clucking around us, sometimes hindered by gritty dust blowing over us. One day a squealing trussed-up pig was trundled past ‘my class’ in a wheelbarrow. We aimed to bring the stories in the books to life, to fire imaginations. With the help of translators when necessary, we organised acting and art work arising from the story. The children drew and coloured carefully and had to be restrained a little with the glitter glue! All the things we take for granted at our primary schools were treats to them. An inflatable globe was a wonder revealing the world, including the vast distance 62
between the UK and Malawi. They joyously taught us their games and action songs and we taught them ours. English is the gateway to achievement, which starts by completing the 8 standards (years) of primary school. The handwritten lists of those who had passed the exam for secondary school were proudly displayed outside every head teacher’s simple office but only a small percentage of pupils get this far. Raising aspirations is a tough task with this level of rural poverty – most children were barefoot and wore ill assorted garments, though some were in uniform; living conditions were extremely basic. Each morning included a lengthy break, not for games but for children to receive specially formulated nutritious porridge (‘phala’) in regulation plastic mugs. Cooked at the schools in large pots over wood fires – we soon realised that was why children often arrived at school carrying a stick – for many this would be their only meal of the day and thus a powerful incentive to attend school. We have much to learn from the warm people of Malawi. I noticed in particular their ability to take pleasure in small things, their readiness to laugh, their strong sense of loving duty to family, their politeness and ungrudging thanks. From teachers’ and children’s comments, I believe too that some of the children also learned from their Book Bus experiences with us. Not only did their delight and confidence in reading increase but some of the older children, including the more traditionally shy girls, had been eager to talk about their future aspirations. Apparently, the teachers especially appreciated having three female volunteers as role models! Many of us will have a vivid memory of a positive learning experience that has influenced our lives. If we have left some children with such a memory, we will hopefully have encouraged them to achieve at school. My time in Malawi underlined the fact that the main way out of poverty, a way of living that seemed an endless present, is through education. Reading – and, in Malawi, reading in English – is at the heart of that journey. Jennie Davies www.thebookbus.org editorial@tavylinks.co.uk
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