Devonshire
The
BRINGING YOU DEVON'S FINEST
South and West issue By far the best regional glossy coverage for Devon OVER 1,000 OUTLETS
DEC 14 & JAN 15 | FREE
Devonshire
The
BRINGING YOU DEVON'S FINEST
The NEW Devonshire website to help you make the most of our beautiful county.
OUTDOORS
LO C AL HIS TO RY
T HE AR T S
WAL K S
Discover more about Devon’s Nature, Farming, Outdoor Pursuits, Beauty Spots, Walks
Uncover Devon’s rich history, including: Churches, Battle Sites, Historic Houses, Local History
Browse Art Galleries, Devon Artists, Art Books, Crafts, Makers and Literature
Devonshire mag is know for full-colour, rich illustrated walks, we’re in the process of uploading our massive archive
E V EN T S
H O USE & H O M E
TOW NS
L IFE S T Y LE
Devon’s most comprehensive event information with the help of the eventhub What’s On websites
Part of your enjoyment of Devon undoubtedly is your home. Find reputable specialists who can help you fulfill your dream
Planning a day out or visiting from afar? Just browse our ‘Towns’ section to save time and gather intelligence pre-visit
Discover People, The Arts, Hobbies, Pets, Animals, Beauty, Holidays, Food & Drink, it’s all here to browse on mobile, tablet and desktop
An invaluable resource on all things Devon, permanently available for your reference www.devonshiremagazine.co.uk
We should finish adding content from our archive by about mid February 2015
2
Absolutely NO adverts - animations, pop-ups, scrolling, bouncing, flashing, They’re permanently banned!
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, theOn Arts tablet, & all things mobile Devon! and desktop
Get the digital magazine FREE and the Devonshire News which gives notifcations of news and features. Just visit the website and subscribe.
WINTER BAUBLES
eastdevonhub southdevonhub middevonhub dartmoorhub WHAT'S ON?
The most comprehensive event promotion both online and offline bar none. Over 4,650 organisations registered for promoting their events. 1 Jan to 5 Nov - 754,478 views (audited)
CONTRIBUTORS
It's great this time of year, looking out onto the frozen garden, enjoying a steaming bowl of soup. Most people with apple trees make the mistake of picking all the apples off - but when left on the tree they make a beautiful festive display glowing baubles in your garden and food for the blackbirds also. How long before they drop?
Nigel Jones, Ted Gosling, John Fisher, Helen Mulvaney, Amanda Merchant, Averil Quinain, Janet East, FCR Esgen, Natalie Bucklar and Hazel Fergie.
My favourite garden ornaments - winter apples
EDITORIAL
Festive Greetings
Nigel Jones - Editor 01395 513383 nigel@devonshiremagazine.co.uk Beech Royd, 6 Bennetts Hill, Sidmouth Devon EX10 9XH
PRODUCTION Charlotte Fergie
charlotte@devonshiremagazine.co.uk
ADVERTISING
Richard Woodward - 01392 580440 richard@devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Devonshire South & West issue
The
MAGAZINE ISSUES
Published bimonthly: Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct, Dec.
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20,000+ magazines (audited) available at over 1,000 high quality outlets from Lyme Regis to Plymouth & Bideford to Barnstaple. Outlet Google map: http://bit.ly/K7JN4E
DEVONSHIRE WEBSITE
www.devonshiremagazone.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Festive greetings and a warm welcome to the Devonshire magazine. This issue sees us take a look at the spectacular Drake monument at Musbury. There's a link between this and the great mariner Sir Francis Drake, all is revealed in the feature. If you didn’t know about this historic treasure, then why not pay a visit - but don’t forget to leave something in the donation box for upkeep.
DISCLAIMER The publishers of this magazine are not responsible for any costs, loss or damage suffered by any person, persons, or company as a result of any advertisement or article in this magazine. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given by the owner for use in this publication. The opinions and comments expressed are purely those of the originators. We do not endorse any products or services advertised within this magazine. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that information is correct, the publishers take no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Any person or persons undertaking the circular walk featured within this publication does so entirely at their own risk. If you take children or dogs on the walk, they will require supervision. We strongly advise that prior to travelling to any of the events listed in our What's On sections, that you call the event organisers to check that the event is running at the times and dates specified. COPYRIGHT All material within this magazine are subject to copyright. Excepting adverts, all images within the magazine are copyright to N.Jones unless otherwise specified.
all so far, so things look very promising for the future of this website. The scatter map of views indicates it’s intercepting searches from not just Devon, but all over the UK. What’s really unique is the quality of content, and it’s a great resource to help you enjoy this region. There’s none of the usual offputting web advertising no banner ads, animations, pop-ups, and it’s viewable on any tablet, smartphone, desktop: www.devonshiremagazine.co.uk
The team at Devonshire magazine have been very busy recently, and at long last the new Devonshire website is open for all. If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know we feature much history, countryside, wildlife, walks, etc within the magazine, and much of what we do is highly visual, with rich photography. The new website makes available much of the high quality content we produce and will enable us to reach an extended group of readers. To date this seems to be borne out as the Google Analytics we use has recorded over 11,000 views to the website in just 4 weeks since launch. We’ve performed no promotion at
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION
UK £15 OVERSEAS FROM £22
Jack's hopeful - at the Cider Bar, one of two remaining cider houses in England
Devonshire
The
BRINGING YOU DEVON'S FINEST
DEC 14 & JAN 15 | FREE
If you’re having trouble getting your copy of the magazine, please note that you can subscribe by calling 01395 513383. Nigel Jones (Editor) PS - don’t forget to support your local independent shops SHOP LOCAL
South and West issue By far the best regional glossy coverage for Devon
let’s help keep our brilliant local shops and businesses
LOCAL
Support your Community
by spending money in your local town
in association with:
Devonshire
The
MAGAZINE
@DevonshireMag
OVER 1,000 OUTLETS
Cover photo: "Stoke Gabriel"
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk Jones © Nigel
3
Cavanna Homes... Let us help you to sell with Move Assist* the boatyard
3 & 4 bedroom new homes
NEW SHOW HOME!
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Guide prices from
£349,950
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The boatyard is an exciting waterfront development of 53 contemporary two, three and four bedroom homes on the outskirts of Plymouth. The Boatyard, The Old Wharf, Oreston, Plymouth PL9 7NP Open Thursday to Monday, 10am – 5pm For more information: 01752 408091
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HORIZON – Off Greenway Lane, Budleigh Salterton, Devon EX9 6SL Open Thursday to Monday, 10am – 5pm For more information: 01395 444434 horizon@cavannahomes.co.uk
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Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Prices correct at time of print.
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
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DEC JAN 1 20 4/5 ISSUE 16
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Devonshire
The
Proudly flying the flag for Devon! 3. Editor's Letter
38. House & Home
The latest from the Editor.
Your home project resource.
7. Letter Box
46. Funny Old Christmas
News snippets from the region.
John Fisher casts his gaze over Pantos.
10. What's ON
48. The Old Vet'nary
Supplied by the eventhub.
Lurid animal tales by Ken Watson.
18. Art Exhibitions
48. 'Wilson'
Extensive arts scene listings.
By Richard Woodward.
26. Festive Shopping
49. Horse Care - Winter
Great shopping ideas for all.
With Natalie Bucklar-Green.
29. Treats for Christmas
50. Yellingham Farm
Beautiful Devon artisan jewellery.
From lady farmer Janet East.
32. Drakes of Aishe
51. eventhub success
The Drake monument with the Editor.
A new milestone for the ever popular eventhub, achieving over three quarters of a million views in 10 months.
36. Fine Dining
Great foodie places in Devon.
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
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Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Letterbox YOUR NEWS TO THE EDITOR - LETTERBOX@devonshiremagazine.CO.UK
New Gallery opens in Dartmouth It s always great when new, independent shops open in our towns, investing effort and money
to bring us great shopping. The good news for Dartmouth is that there s now a new art gallery,
A new and important, content-rich website for our beautiful county
HISTORY
WALKS
featured in the magazines to an even larger audience (the magazine currently has over 1,000 outlets across Devon), and also to enable the public to access this content via searching and through helpful
CHURCHES
WILDLIFE
COUNTRYSIDE
Devonshire
WHAT S ON
BRINGING YOU DEVON’S FINEST
NATURE
Pony trips on the beach for Hannahs young adults The young adults from Hannahs in Ivybridge visited Exmouth Beach several times over the summer. Thanks to Pony Access and the iBex Saddlechariot, they were able to go onto the beach and into the sea in their
COUNTRY PURSUITS
THE ARTS CRAFTS & MAKERS
If you re a reader of the Devonshire magazine, you ll know that we re particularly keen on Devon s rich countryside, wildlife and history. It s long been a dream we ve had at the office to bring the rich content
DAYS OUT
namely Artmill Gallery2 and Framing Centre. Artmill Gallery2? - because proprietor Isabell Peirson already runs a successful gallery at Plymouth (yes, you ve guessed correctly - called Artmill Gallery). The emphasis of this gallery will be to showcase local and international painters and potters. Artmill have strong links with regional art faculties and Isabell says they re at the forefront of promoting all that s local and good. Artmill have over two decades of framing everything from mementos to treasures and fine art. Isabell, the proprietor says she s proud to have gained over 25 years experience in the art & design field and works alongside colleagues James Edgar and Claire Holmes. The new gallery is at No 7 Anzac Street. We wish them all the best with this new gallery - Editor. www.artmillgalleries.co.uk
A Major Initiative Cavanna Homes has given its support to a major Devon-wide enterprise initiative designed to help build the businessmen and women of the future. The Community and Schools Entrepreneurship pilot has seen teenagers from five Devon secondary schools - including the Community Colleges in Exmouth, Okehampton, Holsworthy, Clyst Vale in Broadclyst and King Edward VI in Totnes (KEVICC). Students from King Edward VI Community College in Totnes won The Property Challenge. At the awards ceremony held on September 12th, the winners were given the opportunity to gain work experience at Cavanna Homes and also visit the company’s new “Origins” development at Dartington.
menu architecture - in a nutshell a website! Well now you can do all of this and more, as we ve recently launched the Devonshire website (www. devonshiremagazine.co.uk). This new website allows us to map out our high-quality content, so both residents and visitors to the region can browse the website to find walks, historical sites, beauty spots, what s on, and a range of other information. What s key also is that it approaches Devon from a totally different angle to the plethora of visitor/lifestyle based websites out there. It s a Non-Advertising platform, with no pop-ups, no banners, no bouncing balls - just rich content, that s totally reader focussed!
wheelchairs. For some of the young adults this was the very first time and they absolutely loved it. Thanks to organisations like Pony Access, the Hannahs young adults are able to take part in a wide range of activities despite their disabilities. They have also been sailing thanks to the Horizons Children’s Sailing Charity. Picture - Will Clarke with Simon and Obama from Pony Access
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
A New Milestone! The ever-popular eventhub has reached a new milestone. Figures for 1st January to 5th November this year are 754, 478 views, with Google Analytics scatter maps showing strong concentrations in Devon, but also across the South, London and Midlands, with browsers as far up as Scotland. You can find out more about this amazing success further on in the magazine. Pictured above: Charlotte Fergie (eventhub manager) and Heidi Radford (Honiton Visitor Information Centre manager) who recently helped by auditing these figures. EastDevonHUB supplies event data to a range of information websites, including the Visit Honiton website and the Honiton Chamber of Commerce website. The ethos of the HUB is to share event data for the benefit of all! - Editor.
7
Devonshire fine homes
St Annes Situated in Torquay, in the county of Devon Grade II listed property, its presentation in sympathy with its handsome elegance, providing a spacious home for a gracious lifestyle. 6/7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, drawing room, morning room, kitchen/dining room, butlers pantry, laundry, boot room and 3 box rooms. The property has grounds in excess of 1 acre including walled productive garden, garaging and parking. Guide Price: ÂŁ1,495,000.
Drawing Room
Kitchen/Family Room
Thinking of selling your fine home?
John Couch The Estate Agent 43 Ilsham Road Wellswood Torquay Devon TQ1 2JG
Your property could appear in this printed magazine and in the digital version as well as in the Devonshire magazine’s property section on the website.
Tel: 01803 296500 Email: mail@johncouch.co.uk
www.johncouch.co.uk
8
|
Driveway and Portico
A leading South West Estate Agent
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
|
Independent
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Contact your agent or call the Devonshire magazine on 01395 513383
Sidmouth
SO
LD
Guide price £800,000
Musbury
Guide price £675,000
SO LD LD SO
Honiton
LD
Guide price £950,000
SO
SO
LD
Guide price £499,950
Honiton
Guide price £439,000 LD
LD SO
Dalwood
Yarcombe
Guide price £699,000
SO
SO LD
Sidmouth
Guide price £1,000,000
Payhembury
Guide price £495,000
This month Humberts Honiton Office is celebrating 25 years of selling properties throughout East Devon. As part of a national network of offices across London and the countryside, our office has sold over £629,000,000 of property at today’s values! If you are thinking of selling or buying a property now or at any time in the future, we are here to help.
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
Open 7 days a week
Honiton 01404 42456
honiton@humberts.com Part of the Chestertons Group
9 humberts.com
CHRISTMAS EVENTS BELOW
EXETER CATHEDRAL CHOIR at POWDERHAM
FUNNY OLD CHRISTMAS - SEE PAGE 46
Forthcoming Events December 2014 & January 2015
Events listings powered by: southdevonhub .co.uk
Ballet DOGS DON'T DO BALLET
Choirs
Christmas
Until 31 Dec - Join Ballet Black for their first family ballet based on Anna Kemp's book, Northcott Theatre, Stocker Rd, Exeter.
WELCOME SIR CHRISTEMAS
EXETER CHRISTMAS MARKET
13 Dec - Choral concert, Ashburton Singers, St Luke's Church, Buckfastleigh.
Until 18 Dec - Offering unique, handmade & unusual gifts, crafts, decorations and food items, Cathedral Green, Exeter.
THE NUTCRACKER
13 Dec - A FREE musical afternoon with refreshments to lift the darker days of winter, Chudleigh Community Choir, Chudleigh Parish Church, Chudleigh, 4.00pm.
06 Dec - Vienna Festival Ballet perform the enchanting tale of The Nutcracker, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay, 7.30pm.
ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND (LIVE) 16 Dec - Tuesday evening live broadcast by satellite from Royal Opera House, Exeter Picture House, 51 Bartholomew Street West, Exeter, 7.15pm.
A MUSICAL POT POURRI
WINTER WONDERLAND
CHRISTMAS AT PENNYWELL 01 Dec to 24 Dec - Recapture the true spirit of Christmas. Must book to visit Father Christmas, Pennywell Farm & Wildlife Centre, Lower Dean, Buckfastleigh.
13 Dec - Christmas music for all, Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, St. Bartholomew's Church, Yealmpton, 7.30pm.
All you need to do is visit southdevonhub!
03 Dec - Victorian Evening late night shopping event. Charity stalls, carols and fun, Newton Abbot Town Council, Market Square, Newton Abbot, 6.00pm.
CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS FLOWER WORKSHOP
14 Dec - Our Annual Sell-out Christmas Concert, Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, Harewood House, Plymouth, 2.30pm.
04 Dec - Head to Occombe farm for an evening filled with Christmas Sparkle, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Occombe Farm, Paignton, 6.30pm.
SUNDAY EVENING CONCERT
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 04 Dec to 07 Dec - Ninth Christmas Tree Festival to be staged at the Church, Crediton Parish Church, Church Lane, Crediton.
CAROL CONCERT WITH TORBAY BRASS BAND 17 Dec - Get in the festive mood with Riviera Sound & Torbay Brass Band! Riviera Sound, All Saints Church, Babbacombe, 7.30pm.
FAMILY CAROLS & CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Beans on Toast at Exeter Phoenix
05 Dec - Carol service at the bandstand. Christmas lights switch on in town centre, Dawlish Town Council, The Manor House, Dawlish, 5.15pm.
NEWTON ABBOT ORCHESTRA & MILITARY WIVES
NEW YEAR CHORAL CLASSICS 31 Jan - Classical Choral Concert, West Devon Chorale, St John's Church, Totnes, 7.30pm.
MAGAZINE DELIVERY PEOPLE WANTED We're looking for reliable people with a car to deliver our magazine in the Tavistock and Plymouth areas. If you're interested please contact Nigel on tel: 01395 513383 nigel@devonshiremagazine.co.uk
southdevonhub .co.uk
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
VICTORIAN EVENING
CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM
WINTER WONDERLAND
17 Dec - The Military Wives Choir, Plymouth, will again be our special guests, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Howton Lane, Newton Abbot.
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03 Dec - Join sanctuary for an evening of carols, warm mince pies & mulled wine, The Donkey Sanctuary Ivybridge, Filham Park, Ivybridge.
03 Dec - Superb evening of festive creations, Devonport Guildhall, Ker Street, Plymouth.
14 Dec - Dartington Community Choir directed by Jonathan Watts, Great Hall, Dartington Hall, Dartington, Totnes, 7.30pm.
Want to know what's on ?
CAROL SERVICE
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
December 2014 & January 2015
Forthcoming Events COOKWORTHY CHRISTMAS FAIR 05 Dec - Annual Cookworthy Christmas Fair, Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum, Market Hall, Kingsbridge.
A CONCERT FOR ADVENT 06 Dec - An evening of seasonal music, West Devon Chorale, Buckfast Abbey, Ashburton, 7.15pm.
CHRISTMAS AT CRICKLEPIT 06 Dec - Festive celebration for all the family, Devon Wildlife Trust, Cricklepit Mill, Exeter.
CHURCH CHRISTMAS FAIR 06 Dec - Saturday Grand Christmas Fair, Jubilee Hall Chagford, Jubilee Hall, Chagford.
SENIORS' CHRISTMAS LUNCH 06 Dec - Yearly Christmas lunch for the 'seniors', Frogmore Village Community Assoc, Frogmore, 12.00am.
CHRISTMAS FAIR 06 Dec - Santa, donkey carriage rides to grotto, stalls & games, music, raffle, more, The Donkey Sanctuary Ivybridge, Filham Park, Ivybridge.
KINGSBRIDGE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS 06 Dec - Event in Kingsbridge is now bigger and better than ever! See web for details, Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas, Town Square, Kingsbridge.
CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT FAIR 06 Dec - Come and join us for all things Christmas!, Mount Batten Centre, 70 Lawrence Road, Plymouth, 10.00am.
SELLING YOUR HOUSE in 2015? This magazine can gain your property massive exposure. Devonshire magazine's available at over 1,000 outlets alone. Also the NEW Devonshire website for online exposure. If you're interested, please contact Richard on tel: 01395 513383 or ask your agent about getting your property into Devonshire magazine
CHRISTMAS HAMPER WORKSHOP
CHRISTMAS CRAFT & FOOD FAYRE
07 Dec - Create your own wonderful Christmas Hamper full of delectable goodies, Occombe Farm (Paignton Farmers Market), Paignton, 10.00am.
07 Dec - Craft & food stalls, choirs, Santa's grotto, lantern parade, quiz, much more, Cockington Court, Cockington County Park, Cockington.
CHRISTMAS HAMPER WORKSHOP
CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING
07 Dec - Create your own wonderful Christmas Hamper full of delectable goodies, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Occombe Farm, Paignton, 10.00am.
09 Dec - Have fun making your own Christmas wreath in the Castle, Powderham Castle, Kenton, Exeter, 11.00am.
CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT BOW EVENTS
DARTMOUTH FATSTOCK SHOW & CHRISTMAS FAYRE
07 Dec - Browse the great selection of crafts and gift stalls, Plymouth Guildhall, Armada Way, Plymouth, 10.00am.
09 Dec - Enjoy the Tuesday traditional event, Dartmouth Fatstock Show & Market, The Old Market, Dartmouth.
THE ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
TOTNES LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS MARKET
07 Dec - Military music spectacular - festive music, military marches, big band hits, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
09 Dec - Tuesday evening market and late night shopping, Totnes Christmas Markets, High Street, Totnes, 3.30pm.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT 11 Dec - Thursday evening Christmas Concert - Come and Carol, South Devon Choir, St Lukes Church, Torquay, 7.30pm.
CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 06 Dec - Christmas Craft Fair, Teign Heritage Centre, 29 French Street, Teignmouth, 10.00am.
TORBAY FAMILY CHRISTMAS MARKET
CHAGFORD SINGERS' CONCERT
07 Dec - Great Christmas Market, The Strand, Dawlish, 10.00am.
Clock and Watch Repair Expert and professional repairs to all types of clocks and watches. A wide rage of watches and clocks also available for sale.
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CAROLS IN THE CATHEDRAL 10 Dec to 11 Dec - An evening of carols, Exeter Philharmonic Choir, Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, 7.30pm. 11 Dec - Shop for unique gifts and indulge yourself at our festive evening, Yume Jewellery, 1, Ashburton, 6.00pm.
06 Dec - Saturday evening University of Plymouth Choral Society concert, Peninsula Arts, Minster Church of St Andrews, Plymouth, 7.30pm.
DAWLISH CHRISTMAS MARKET IN THE STRAND
CHRISTMAS CABARET 10 Dec - Cabaret special evening starring Deirdre Dee, Plymouth Postcard Collectors Club, Scout Centre, Plymouth, 7.00pm.
ASHBURTON LATE NIGHT SHOPPING
AN EDWARDIAN CHRISTMAS CONCERT
07 Dec - Performance of Charpentier's Messe de Munait Plus. Selection of carols, Chagford Singers, St Michaels Church, Chagford, 7.30pm.
CHRISTMAS LANTERN PARADE 10 Dec - Lantern Parade, Mayor's Carol Service and Christmas Street Fayre, Newton Abbot Town Council, Clock Tower, Newton Abbot, 6.00am.
1913-2014
Over One Hundred Years of Service in South Devon DAY TRIPS
11 Dec to 13 Dec - Take part in a Christmas Market in Torquay, Torbay Family Market, Castle Circus, Torquay, 10.00am.
MUSIC IN THE CASTLE 12 Dec - The Exeter Cathedral Choir return to Powderham Castle, Kenton, Exeter.
CAROL SERVICE 12 Dec - Stover pupils perform a Christmas Carol Service at Exeter Catheral, Stover School, Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, 11.30am.
Christmas Drive and Dine - Tues 9th Dec - £35.00 inc
CANDLELIT EVENING
Endsleigh Garden Centre & Tavistock Charter Market
12 Dec - A Friday candlelit evening, The Donkey Sanctuary Ivybridge, Filham Park, Ivybridge, 3.30pm.
Fri 19th Dec - £18.00 Post Christmas Mystery Drive - Tues 30th Dec - £21.00 Bickleigh Mill and Taunton - Wed 14th Jan - £19.00 Tamar View Nurseries and Tavistock
Thurs 22nd Jan - £19.00 Sidmouth and the Donkey Sanctuary
Tues 27th Jan - £19.00
6 Daneheath Business Park, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6TL 01626 833038 | bookings@greycars.com | www.greycars.com
FRIDAY EVENING CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS 12 Dec - Celebrating Christmas in Words and Music with Words for Voices and Devon Waite, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Church End Road, Kingskerswell, 7.30pm.
XMAS FOOD & CRAFT MARKET 12 Dec & 19 Dec- A special late night Christmas Market full of festive treats, Real Ideas Organisation, Devonport Guildhall, Plymouth, 4.00pm.
PLYMOUTH AREA POLICE CHOIR 12 Dec - Friday evening Grand Christmas Concert, Plymouth Area Police Choir, Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth, 7.30pm. CONTINUED OVERLEAF
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
11
December October & November 2014 2014 & January 2015
Forthcoming Events Forthcoming Events Fosterville Ltd is a well established local company which has been supplying building materials to the Building & Landscaping industry since 1999
Quarry & Recycled Aggregate • Sand • Cement • Block • Gravel Fosterville Ltd. The Recycling Centre, John Acres Lane, Newton Abbot, Devon. TQ12 3GP
T: 01626 852050
E: sales@fosterville.co.uk
POETSFRIDAY (SEACHANGE STUDIOS)
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CATHEDRAL CHOIR
12 Dec - Write a poem with a Christmas theme, 'Food for Thought' & take to read, Cockington Court, Cockington County Park, Cockington.
13 & 17 Dec - Exeter Cathedral's popular Christmas concert. Carols for choir and audience, Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter, 7.30pm.
SANTA BY STEAM
TOTNES LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS MARKET
13 Dec to 14 Dec - Family enjoyment on board Santa's grotto train, South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh Station, Buckfastleigh.
16 Dec - Tuesday evening market and late night shopping, Totnes Christmas Markets, High Street, Totnes, 3.30pm.
VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO
CHRISTMAS STREET FAYRE
13 Dec to 14 Dec - We are delighted to welcome the real Santa back to Hannahs, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Howton Lane, Newton Abbot, 12.00am.
17 Dec - Late night shopping Christmas Street Fayre, with entertainment and live music, Newton Abbot Town Council, Clock Tower, Newton Abbot, 6.00pm.
THE SANTA EXPRESS
A SERVICE OF MUSIC & READINGS FOR CHRISTMAS
13 Dec to 14 Dec - Festive fun for all the family on the Santa Express featuring Cinderella, Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company, Queens Park Station, Paignton.
YULETIDE PARKE 14 Dec - Family festive event, Parke, National Trust, Home Farm, Bovey Tracey.
CHRISTMAS NATURAL WREATH MAKING
19 Dec - Stanborough Chorus perform in support of the Primrose Trust at Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, 7.30pm.
CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS CONCERT 19 Dec - Friday evening Music of the Night Choral Foundation, Roland Levinskly Building, Plymouth University, Plymouth, 7.30pm.
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK (THE LYRIC)
14 Dec - Get into the festive spirit at this fun Christmas workshop and create an eye-cat, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Occombe Farm, Paignton, 11.00am.
19 Dec to 17 Jan - The family pantomime you've bean waiting for!, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth.
BARBICAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
CHRISTMAS IS COMING!
12 Dec to 14 Dec - Enjoy the magic of Christmas at this fun filled event, Sutton Harbour, Tin Quay House, Plymouth.
13 Dec - Choruses from Haydn's Creation with other Advent and Christmas music, Britannia Choral Society, St Saviour's Church, Dartmouth, 7.30pm.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP
TUDOR CHRISTMAS
14 Dec - Decorate your own edible Gingerbread House for Christmas in this fun family work, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Occombe Farm, Paignton, 10.30am.
20 Dec - Enjoy Saturday festive fun and games at the hidden jewel of St Nicholas Priory, St Nicholas Priory, The Mint, Exeter.
JOYOUS TIDINGS
CHRISTMAS GROTTO
20 Dec - Lovely fresh Christmas produce, Bovey Tracey Farmers Market, Town Square, Bovey Tracey, 8.30am.
SLEEPING BEAUTY, PANTOMIME 12 Dec to 04 Jan - Get into the festive spirit with the fun-filled panto, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
13 Dec - A Christmas Concert with seasonal refreshments, Stanborough Chorus, Methodist Church, Kingsbridge, 7.30pm.
HANNAHS AT SEALE-HAYNE
A UNIQUE
DESTINATION...
BISTRO LIVE MUSIC HEALTH & WELLBEING CENTRE
15 Dec to 24 Dec - Meet Santa at Babbacombe Model Village, Hampton Avenue, Babbacombe.
ARTISTS STUDIOS GALLERIES EXHIBITIONS SHOPS FARM
BOVEY TRACEY'S CHRISTMAS MARKET
CONTINUED OVERLEAF
CHILDREN’S TRAIL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES CONFERENCING ACCOMMODATION
AN INSPIRING CHARITY Wednesday 17 December
Newton Abbot Orchestra and The Military Wives Choir - Plymouth
Sunday 7 December
Sit back and soak up a seasonal selection of light classics and festive favourites, as well as a carol or two. We are delighted that The Military Wives Choir – Plymouth will again be our special guests. Bar open for light refreshments and mince pies.
The Great Hall, 7:30pm. Tickets £15
The Great Hall. 7pm for a 7.30pm performance. Tickets £12. Advance booking highly recommended.
The Military Wives Choir - Plymouth
St. Agnes Fountain
BY BOOKING THESE EVENTS YOU ARE SUPPORTING THE CHARITY AND ITS WORK IN SUPPORTING CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND ADULTS WITH A RANGE OF DISABILITIES. For more information and booking: T: 01626 325 825 | E: bookings@discoverhannahs.org www.discoversealehayne.org | Hannahs is committed to sustainable travel Dame Hannah Roger’s School, registered charity no. 306948. Dame Hannah Rogers Trust, a limited company registered in England and Wales with number 5512987, and registered as a charity with number 1148882, and whose registered office address is at Woodland Road, Ivybridge, Devon PL21 9HQ is the sole trustee of Dame Hannah Roger’s School.
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Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
GI M F October & November 2014 Th on - TS u W G Forthcoming A - e Su rEvents n - Sat d 10 LO 11a 10a am R m m -7 E - 6 - 9 pm pm pm
20 Nov - 20 Dec Cathedral Green Follow us on: exeterchristmasmarket @exeterxmasmarke
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old and new, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Great Hall, Exeter University, Exeter, 7.30pm.
TOTNES LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS MARKET
04 Dec - Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra plays works by Britten, Mendelssohn and Debussy, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Great Hall, Exeter University, Exeter, 7.30pm.
CAROLS FOR ALL
SHALDON SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT
FANCY DRESS 3 LEGGED RACE 26 Dec - 3 legged fancy dress race round the village, Shaldon Water Carnival, the ness, Shaldon, 10.30am.
BOXING DAY WALK IN THE SEA TEIGNMOUTH
MAKE AND TAKE: CHRISTMAS 2014ROCKING ROBINS 20 Dec - 60 mins fun festive sessions making a range of robin-themed crafts (donations), Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Drake Circus, Plymouth.
CREDITON CHRISTMAS FARMERS MARKET 21 Dec - Visit Crediton Farmers Market to buy food that is local, fresh & at it's best, Crediton Famers Market, The Square, Crediton, 10.00am.
LAST NIGHT OF THE CHRISTMAS PROMS
BSO SEA PICTURES
23 Dec - Tuesday evening market and late night shopping, Totnes Christmas Markets, High Street, Totnes, 3.30pm. 24 Dec - Traditional Carols for the whole Community, Stanborough Chorus, St. Edmund's Church, Kingsbridge, 4.30pm.
Exeter Christmas Market
Classical Music
26 Dec - Over 200 revellers are expected at the Pier to run into the sea to raise funds, Teignmouth Lifeboat Station, The Point Car Park, Teignmouth, 10.15am.
CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR 31 Dec - Great entertainment from the specially formed 'Enjoy Yourself Jazz Band', Plymouth Jazz Club, The Royal British Legion Club, Plymouth.
BSO NEW YEAR JOHANN STRAUSS GALA 02 Jan - BSO's annual Viennese Gala celebrating Johann Strauss, the King of Waltz, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Great Hall, Exeter University, Exeter, 7.30pm.
06 Dec - Excerpts from Messiah plus carols for choir and audience, Shaldon Singers, St Peter's Church, Shaldon, 7.00pm.
BACH BY CANDLELIGHT 07 Dec - Cellist and Composer Emily Burridge performs a candlelit concert of Bach, Hazelwood House, Nr Loddiswell, Kingsbridge, 6.00pm.
'MUSIC IN THE CASTLE': EXETER CATHEDRAL CHOIR 12 Dec - 'Music in the Castle' presents Exeter Cathedral Choir: Christmas Music, carols, Powderham Castle Organ Fund, Powderham Castle, Kenton.
CONCERT OF RECORDED MUSIC 15 Dec - Exeter Recorded Concert Society, Exeter Recorded Concert Society, Southernhay UR Church, Exeter, 7.15pm.
BSO LONDON TOWN 22 Jan - BSO plays works by Elgar, Rachmaninov, and Vaughan Williams, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Great Hall, Exeter University, Exeter, 7.30pm.
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EMILY AND HAZEL ASKEW 30 Jan - English 16th and 17th century street songs, court and country dances, Totnes Early Music Society, United Free Church, Totnes, 7.30pm.
Collectors ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLE FAIR 06 Dec - Saturday fair at the racecourse, Newton Abbot Racecourse, Newton Road, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.
TORQUAY & TEIGNBRIDGE STAMP CLUB MEETING 11 Dec - Club Evening - Display Letter 'D', Torquay & Teignbridge Stamp Club, St Michael's Church Hall, Kingsteignton, 7.30pm.
MATFORD CENTRE ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS FAIR 13 Dec - Large antique and collectors fair, Matford Centre, Exeter City Council, Exeter, 9.00am.
TORQUAY&TEIGNBRIDGE STAMP CLUBSPEAKER 22 Jan - Speaker - Mike Watson, Torquay & Teignbridge Stamp Club, St Michael's Church Hall, Kingsteignton, 7.30pm.
22 Dec - A selection of Christmas favourites
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DEVONSHIRE MAGAZINE
14
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
December issue
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
December 2014 & January 2015
Forthcoming Events Live Music
Comedy
BRASS BAND
STAND-UP/COMEDY NIGHT
VIGILANCE QUAYSIDE CAROL SERVICE
03 Dec - A Wednesday evening of stand-up comedy, B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth.
Until 16 Dec - Quayside carol Service, Brixham Town Band, Old Fish Market, Brixham, 7.00pm.
FISH 06 Dec - Fish, the critically acclaimed progressive rock singer/songwriter, and former le, Exeter Phoenix, Brandninch Place, Exeter, 8.00pm.
COUNTRY & BLUEGRASS GERRY COLVIN BAND 13 Dec - Gerry Colvin Band & support Ella Janes, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Church End Road, Kingskerswell, 7.00pm.
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ 12 Dec to 04 Jan - Le Navet Bete return to Barbican Theatre after last year's sell out success !, Barbican Theatre, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth.
DISCO BASEMENT JAXX 09 Dec - Tuesday evening concert Basement Jaxx plus Juce, Plymouth Pavilions, Millbay Road, Plymouth, 6.00pm.
SARA PASCOE 28 Jan - Star of Stand Up For the Week and Campus (C4), Live at the Apollo, , Exeter Phoenix, Brandninch Place, Exeter, 8.00pm.
FOLK ROOTS & ACOUSTIC MARTYN JOSEPH
Craft Newton Abbot Lantern Parade
MOOR FORESHORE CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT FAYRE 19 Dec to 20 Dec - Santa's Grotto and lots of Christmas crafts and gifts to suit every pocket, Moor Foreshore, Tavistock Town Hall.
CRAFT 4 CRAFTERS
www.bluerivercottages.co.uk
29 Jan to 31 Jan - Enjoy the annual craft event, Westpoint Arena, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, 10.00am.
HARBERTONFORD'S CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR
Fairs CHUDLEIGH CHRISTMAS FAYRE 04 Dec - Chudleigh Christmas fayre, parade & late night shopping. Lots to do and see, Chudfest, The Square, Chudleigh, 5.00pm.
07 Dec - Harberton Ford Village Hall, Harbertonford, 10.30am.
GERRY COLVIN 13 Dec - A new band for the amazing Gerry Colvin, World Unlimited, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Kingskerswell, 7.00pm.
ASHBURTON CHRISTMAS FAIR 11 Dec - Ashburton, Ashburton, 5.00pm.
A very Merry Thinking of letting Christmas your andproperty? a Happy New Year!
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05 Dec - He has been called 'The Welsh Springsteen', World Unlimited, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Kingskerswell, 7.00pm.
CONTINUED OVERLEAF
Blueriver Cottages
01803 833682
01803 833682 6-7 Hauley Road 5 Anzac Street Dartmouth Dartmouth Devon Devon TQ6 9AA TQ6 9DL
01803 833682
info@bluerivercottages.co.uk www.bluerivercottages.co.uk
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
We can help you unlock your
15
December 2014 & January 2015
Forthcoming Events FUNK & SOUL THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN IS COMING TO PLYMOUTH 13 Dec - Celebrating 50 years of no. 1 hit singles, the brand new Reach Out Tour, Plymouth Pavilions, Millbay Road, Plymouth.
JAZZ BRIDGE JAZZ CLUB 03 Dec - Pete Canter & Friends Jam Session £6 or £3 for jammers, The Bridge Jazz Club, Exeter Phoenix, Exeter, 8.30pm.
PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB 07 Dec - Sunday evening Jazz, Plymouth Jazz Club, The Royal British Legion Club, Plymouth, 7.30pm.
POPULAR MUSIC FROM MARTYN JOSEPH 05 Dec - Wonderful live music experience, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Church End Road, Kingskerswell, 7.00pm.
BEANS ON TOAST 06 Dec - Drunk folk singer, barefoot troubadour and cult legend Beans on Toast has been a, Exeter Phoenix, Brandninch Place, Exeter, 8.00pm.
Markets
MARKET DAYS MANATON MONTHLY MARKET 16 Dec - Offering fresh local goods- each third Tuesday every month, Manaton Parish Hall Committee, Parish Hall, Newton Abbot, 10.30am.
Heritage WHITEHORSE HILL: EXHIBITION Until 13 Dec - Fascinating exhibition showing the amazing Dartmoor discoveries, Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Drake Circus, Plymouth, 10.00am.
THE PRE-RAPHAELITE MOVEMENT 02 Dec - A Development Trust lecture, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 6.00pm.
VICTORIAN GOTHIC: AN ALL CONSUMING PASSION? 03 Dec - This panel discussion promises a fascinating and entertaining evening, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 7.30pm.
FORCED INTO EXILE? 3 DEVON ESTATES IN 1860S 04 Dec - Illustrated talk to be given by Jeremy Pearson, Curator National Trust SW, Devon Rural Archive, Shilstone, Modbury, 7.00pm.
Elf at Theatre Royal
FARMERS & COUNTRY NEWTON ABBOT FARMERS MARKET Tuesdays - This market has a reputation for varied quality products, Newton Abbot Farmers Market, Courtenay Street, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.
KINGSBRIDGE FARMERS' MARKET 06, 20 Dec - Average of 30 stalls selling a range of local produce 1st & 3rd Sat of month, Kingsbridge Farmers Market, Town Square, Kingsbridge, 9.00am.
ARTISAN CHRISTMAS MARKET 06 Dec - The second Artisan Market in Totnes in time for Christmas!!, Iamthehow, The Rutherfold, Totnes, 10.00am.
MILLING AT CRICKLEPIT
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CREDITON FARMERS MARKET
DARTMOUTH FARMERS MARKET
07 Dec - Brush up on identification skills with local expert Mike Langman. Booking ess, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Meet at Cafe at sea wall, Paignton, 10.00am.
Saturdays - Regular Saturday Family Market showcasing local foods, crafts and businesses, Torbay Family Market, Castle Circus, Torquay, 10.00am.
PRACTICAL CONSERVATION TEAM DAY 14 Jan - Work with our Conservation Team in the Lennon Legacy Project Field, Barn Owl Trust, Waterleat, Ashburton, 9.30am.
INDOOR MARKET UNIQUE BOUTIQUE CHRISTMAS MARKET 06 Dec - An indoor pop up market featuring artists and makers from the south west, Unique Boutique, Exeter Phoenix, Exeter, 10.00am.
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS
WINTER BIRD WALK
TORBAY FAMILY MARKET
16
Theatre
Wildlife
13 Dec - Local produce for local people from a local source, Dartmouth Farmers Market, Market Square, Dartmouth, 9.00am.
10 Jan - Bring in 2015 with our first market of the New Year!, Real Ideas Organisation, Devonport Guildhall, Plymouth, 10.00am.
IAN MORTIMER TALK ON 21 Jan - Talk on Ian Mortimer's latest Book "Centuries of Change", Lustleigh Society, Lustleigh Village Hall, Lustleigh, 7.30pm.
Until 01 Jan - A Festive Feast of Extraordinary Entertainment, Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, 2.30pm.
06 Dec - Visit Crediton Farmers Market to buy food that is local, fresh & at it's best, Crediton Famers Market, The Square, Crediton, 10.00am.
DEVONPORT GUILDHALL FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET
12 Dec - Watch local history come alive as the mill's waterwheel starts turning, Devon Wildlife Trust, Cricklepit Mill, Exeter, 10.00am.
Brixham, Devon 01803 851195 falcon@blueyonder.co.uk
www.falconfoto.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
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southdevonhub .co.uk
A point of view!
Nelson’s Column
by JOHN FISHER
Romans themselves. But it was those same
Funny Money
Romans who were the big spenders hereabouts
Some 1,764 years later and Exeter’s
– witness the 22,000 coins bearing the image
independent businesses are at it again, this
of the Emperor Constantius Augustus II
time drawing up plans to print their own
(317 – 361 AD), unearthed in East Devon
money that can be exchanged for goods and
recently and now on display in the Royal
services offered by participating businesses.
Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter.
It keeps money circulating within the city rather than it being taken back to be squandered in say Rome or Truro or Taunton. If everything goes according to plan the city will join Totnes and Bristol in having its own currency by this time next year.
What the Romans did for Devon shopping
Although it would be many centuries before hit the shops at Christmas, mistletoe, mead,
The Bristol £10-note employs the image of one
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN DEVON IN 350
dormice in honey and jars of fermented
Hannah Moore, an anti-slavery campaigner.
AD was probably nothing much to write
fish sauce (called Garum) all suitably gift-
Let’s hope it isn’t Constantius Augustus who
home about.
wrapped, would have flown off the shelves
will be smiling out of the Exeter tenner next
during the festive season as Devon’s shops
year. He was, according to scholars (but in
turkeys, crackers, and reindeer pullovers
‘Home’ meant Rome and those who could write
bent over backwards to attract those moneyed
the words of the immortal actor/comedian,
- save for a few monks – were the occupying
Latins to buy locally.
Terry Thomas), an absolute shower.
first Christmas card,
household in Preston should receive a free
right here, in Devon. For
copy of his Malt Liquor Lecture, in which
Henry had an inventive
he maintained that “there is more food in a
turn of mind and was
pennyworth of bread than in a gallon of ale”.
also a patron of the arts. He patented a stay-hot teapot, had a hand in the
Unforgettable!
design of the world’s first postage stamp (the Penny
OVERHEARD in the saloon bar ofThe Weary
Black) and was a founder
Badger, somewhere in Devon.
of London’s Victoria & Albert Museum.
Cheers, my dears!
“I never forget ou r
we d d i n g
But that image in the centre of the card – of
a n n i v e r s a r y.
one of his grandchildren being given a festive
We got married
THAT’S NOT MR. PICKWICK enjoying a
sip of wine – got him into trouble with one
on the same day
traditional Dickensian Christmas at Dingley
Joseph Livesey, the founder of the teetotalism
that Arsenal beat
Dell. It’s a renowned Devonian, Sir Henry
movement in Preston, Lancashire and had
Southampton 1 - 0
Cole in the bosom of his family on 25th of
become something of a voice in the land.
in the Cup Final
December, 1843.
and our dustbin There is no record of Livesey ever having sent
men closed the lid back down on our wheelie
“Sir Henry who?” we hear you cry. Henry
Christmas cards. However he left provision
bin”.
was the man who invented the world’s very
in his will that at Christmas time every
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
17
Painting at Topsham
The Lighter Side
Well-known Devon artist Ray Balkwill shares his joys of painting in the ‘great outdoors.’
H
eat, wind, rain, snow ‒ ah, the joys of painting in the great outdoors - one never knows quite what Mother Nature has in store for the dedicated artist. For well over two decades now I have been a strong advocate of painting en plein air, my main objective being to capture the mood and spirit of a place. In that time I have also tutored scores of painting holidays both in the UK, as well as abroad. This has not only provided me with some truly memorable painting experiences, but also some amusing stories. But before I recount some of these, there are a couple of misconceptions about painting that need to be clarified. The fi rst misconception is that painting is easy. It s not just a case of mixing the right colour and putting it in the right place as one friend insists. Even Degas said that painting is easy when you don t know how, but difficult when you do . Being faced with a blank sheet of paper, or canvas is intimidating, but the trick is to nonchalantly sidle up to it and catch it unawares - and then knock it for six! The second misconception is that
18
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
painting is relaxing. Absorbing yes, but by its very nature, I fi nd it about as relaxing as bathing a cat! The plein air painter is faced with many challenges, but it is the vagaries of the weather that cause the most problems. Besides bat t l i ng t he physic a l elements themselves, the extremes of temperature can be a real issue in t he pa i nt i ng proce s s too, particularly when working in watercolour. In the heat of summer the washes dry too fast and then in the winter months, f r u s t r a t i n g l y s l o w l y. Although rain is a nuisance, I fi nd that wind is the main protagonist. Sometimes it is necessary to sacrifice a good viewpoint to put your back to the wind, or to fi nd shelter from it. But one rule worth remembering is to never turn your back on your painting. Once a student made that mistake and turned his back on his completed
pastel. A gust of wind lifted it off the easel and planted it squarely on his back leaving an almost perfect reproduction on his black jumper. He saw the funny side, but I don t think he appreciated my quip of you can buy one and get one free!
Painting on Dartmoor Then there was the time I was painting with a group at Pin Mill, on the River Orwell. The day started well enough in bright sunshine painting a beautiful Thames Barge,
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
until that is, the wind began to pick up. Then I caught sight of the blackest cloud I have ever seen fast approaching. Next came the spits of rain and before I knew it I was on my own, with my students having already made a hasty retreat to the Butt and Oyster . In the blink of an eye, day had turned to night and there followed a torrential downpour. As the pub was some distance away I grabbed my painting and pastels and made a dash for the nearest cover available, which happened to be a sailing yacht on the hard. I huddled under the keel of the boat the best I could, but it was no sanctuary, as the rain simply ran down the side of the hull and on down the back of my neck. The scene before me looked like some artists battlefield, one of scattered and upturned stools and easels. The sight of an expensive sun umbrella torn to shreds and being blown along the foreshore like tumbleweed will stay with me forever.
Painters often find themselves off the beaten track in search of subjects, so it is little wonder that animals feature in my untoward events list. I once found myself surrounded by a herd of inquisitive bullocks in the water meadows at Dedham. I have to say it was quite a frightening experience, as they would not move despite my frantic shouting and arm waving. It reminded me of a quote by the painter Patrick Larking when he said that he was not at his best as a painter with a cow licking the back of his neck! The most memorable time was when I led a painting course on the South Cornwall coast. Here I took a group to the middle of an open field to sketch picturesque Talland Bay. But typically, just as we settled down the heavens opened and with no nearby shelter at hand we decided to sit it out, getting thoroughly soaked in the process. When the rain abated we resumed our sketching only this time to be interrupted by a number of inquisitive horses. They not only prodded us with wet noses, but also insisted on rooting around in our bags. One of the painters even had her watercolour sketch licked by one of the horses. We had to laugh when we overheard her say: Yes, I think it s improved it! I love animals though, particularly dogs, but the problem is that they love me too. If they re not leaving their mark on my art bag, then it s usually a good shake near me after a swim. But the funniest story was on a recent painting course I led in Ireland. My group of painters and I arrived at the pretty harbour of Kinvara. As I began to paint, the group s attention was diverted to a cat, which appeared on the scene, followed shortly by a boxer dog. We watched as they both settled in front of us a short distance apart. The cat began hissing a warning and then the dog would growl back and so it went on with neither budging their ground. I had the distinct feeling that the students found the drama far more interesting than my demonstration. Although distracting, I was pleased that no fight ensued and later found out that they were both local characters and this happened to be a regular occurrence. People, as well as animals, a r e a l s o d r aw n to painters. When someone compliments my work it can be encouraging, but interruptions can also be a very disruptive factor too. Painting involves concentration and I am often so absorbed that I am unaware of anything else, even onlookers. If
Sheltering from the rain, Gweek
Evening Sail on the Exe, Exmouth interrupted I am never rude, but in my experience it is best to discourage conversation in the fi rst place. In anticipation, I sometimes place a brush between my teeth, so that I am not able to reply easily. Another good idea is to lay an upturned hat on the ground next to the easel with a few coins in it. This usually creates a wide berth and works every time! But my experience painting on the high rugged cliffs in North Cornwall has to be the strangest. It is a very remote and peaceful place and I remember looking up from my painting and seeing a figure wending his way along the coastal footpath some distance away. Before long he was stood behind me and before I could get my hat down, he asked
Ray at Cadgwith
if he could show me something, to which I cautiously agreed. Then from a carrier bag he brought out half a dozen small-framed paintings that he had done and asked if I would comment on them. I have done many critiques in my time, but never one in this situation. He went on to tell me that he lived further down the coast and had spotted me through his binoculars and thought it too good an opportunity to miss. I duly obliged of course, as I felt anyone prepared to walk a couple of miles carrying their paintings over difficult terrain deserved encouragement. Estuaries and harbours are some of my favourite subjects to paint and although I dislike being in boats, I love painting them. Because of the ever-changing tides it can also be a challenging subject. Painting boats at low tide is far easier though as they don t move around, or disappear altogether on fishing trips - something that happens all too frequently. One can still be caught out though, as I discovered when I was painting in Newquay Harbour. Because it was high tide I chose to paint the only fi shing boat moored on what little sand that was left in the harbour. The painting was going well until I saw a crane come trundling along the quayside. It came to a halt above the boat I had chosen to paint and subsequently began lifting it out onto the quay. It s always good for a painter to have a kick in the tail now and again! Low tide can be
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
just as problematic, particularly with fishermen parking their vans by their boats. Of the hundreds of boats in a harbour why it always has to be the one I ve chosen as the focal point in my painting beats logic! However, my worse experience was encountered on a recent painting trip to Brittany, in the charming fi shing port of Erquy. It was low water so I positioned myself on a slipway below the harbour wall. It was idyllically quiet; the weather was good and the scene before me perfect. I should have known it was too good to last. For in the distance I heard what could only be described as a noise like rumbling thunder. As it got louder I turned to see not one, but six, that s right six, JCB diggers trundling down the slipway followed by an army of workmen in high-vis jackets. Needless to say I made one very hasty retreat to let them pass. The scene was quite surreal and within minutes the beach was transformed from an idyllic harbour scene to one of a noisy industrial site, as the diggers began digging anchor chains from the sands. Just when I thought it could not get any worse, they began the task of cutting these with metal cutters. I can t remember who said: Art could be ever so funny if it wasn t such a serious business, but it s certainly true. Ray Balkwill s new book Travelling Light and art instruction DVD Capturing Coastal Moods are available for purchase now. You can see details by going to Ray s page at: devonshiremagazine.co.uk/lifestyle/artists There s a link that gives details on how to purchase. Ray s work is being exhibited at Davidson Fine Art, 22 High Street, Totnes from 6th to the 20th of December. Don t miss Art Exhibitions for your area. Just go to the southdevonhub or just Google What s On South Devon
19
Forthcoming Exhibitions Dec 2014 & Jan 2015
Dick Winney - 'Mallard Family and Damsel Flies - The Axe Estuary, Axmouth' - Kaya Gallery
Alyson Howard - 'Lupen Dream' - Lime Square
Malcolm Taylor - Artmill Gallery
GALLERIES Until 04 Jan - Commemorating the outbreak of the First World War, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10.00am.
Until 19 Dec - Our resident artists have put together a seasonal selection of gifts., Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Howton Lane, Newton Abbot.
WALK ON
LITTLE GEMS
Until 13 Dec - Walk On: From Richard Long to Janet Cardiff 40 Years of Art Walking, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth University, Plymouth, 10.00am.
Until 31 Dec - An exhibition of small paintings, White Space Art, 72 Fore Steet, Totnes, 10.00am.
PAPER PERSUADERS
Until 18 Jan - Our annual Christmas Show features a wide variety of work priced under £500.., gloss-Art Gallery, 1 Barnfield Crescent, Exeter, 6.00pm.
Until 25 Dec - A collection of First World War recruitment posters, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter.
WHAT DO YOU COLLECT? - WAR CABINET Until 31 Dec - Weapons, trench maps, nursing kits and diaries from the Great War, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10.00am.
Open Tues - Sat 10.30 - 5.00
Sun 2.00 - 4.30
www.brookgallery.co.uk
01395 443003
01 Dec to 31 Dec - Cards and Gifts, Clocks and Ceramics, Homeware, and Local Artists., Frames and Boxes Gallery, 10 Bank Street, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.
ALYSON HOWARD EXHIBITION 01 Dec to 31 Jan - Alyson Howard Exhibition at Lime Square Gallery Ivybridge., Lime Square, Glanville Mill, Ivybridge, 9.00am.
GIVE ART FOR CHRISTMAS
PAINTINGS BY ARTHUR GLENDINNING 02 Dec to 07 Dec - A lively exhibition of paintings by Arthur Glendinning, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
ART & SOUL: VICTORIANS AND THE GOTHIC Until 01 Feb - A rare opportunity to see works by some of the greatest 19th century artists, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10.00am.
EXHIBITIONS Kathleen Caddick 02 to 09 Dec - Depicting our calm and beautiful landscapes. Brian Rice 12 Dec to 12 Jan - An exhibition of iconic rare early prints.
'Dartmoor Sheep' - The Brownston Gallery
EXHIBITION
15 Glanvilles Mill, Ivybridge t. 01752 698119 www.lime-square.co.uk
The Winter Exhibition 04 Dec to 24 Dec Wonderful mixed show with original work by Robert Lenkiewicz, Anthony Amos, Jerry Browning, Charlie O’Sullivan, Michael Hill, Teresa Pemberton and more.
Alyson Howard Exhibition Alyson Howard returns to Lime Square Gallery for her second exhibition. Her paintings transform as the light changes hypnotising and engaging the viewer. Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
REMBRANDT - EXHIBITION ON SCREEN 04 Dec - From the National Gallery, London & Rijkmuseum, Amsterdam, The Flavel Arts Centre, Flavel Place, Dartmouth, 7.00pm.
thebrownstongaller y thebrownstongaller y
EXHIBITIONS
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ANNA PUGH AND FESTIVE FOLK ART FUN
CHRISTMAS GIFTS EXHIBITION
EXETER'S FINE ART
art art
p r i nt s p r i nt s
s c u l p t u re s c u l p t u re
j ewel l er y j ewel l er y
36 Church Street, Modbury, Devon PL21 0QR tel - 01548 831338 36 Church Street, Modbury, Devon PL21 0QR tel - 01548 831338
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Frames and Boxes, 01626 335965 10 Bank Street, Newton Abbot TQ12 2JW facebook.com/galleryfab
This Christmas... Cards, Gifts, Clocks, Ceramics, Homeware, and Local Artists. New folk art by the renowned Anna Pugh, Gustav Klimt specials, and plenty of seasonal fun!
Brian Rice - 'Red Assembly' - Brook Gallery - see box bottom left
Arthur Glendinning - 'From The Terrace' - Harbour House
CATCHING THE LIGHT 06 Dec to 20 Dec - An exhibition of paintings by some of Devon's finest artists, Davidson Fine Art, 22 High Street, Totnes, 11.00am.
THE ECLECTIC COLLECTIVE 09 Dec to 14 Dec - Five contemporary artists and makers present a lively mixed exhibition, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
Klimt - Frames and Boxes
Anna Pugh - 'Chickens' - Frames & Boxes
STUDIO GALLERY - KEITH STOTT 17 Jan to 24 Jan - Pastel painter Keith Stott turns the art gallery into a working art studio, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
Three quarters of a million views in just 10 months!
eventhub The recent audit of these figures proves it's Devon's most powerful event promotion platform bar-none. Events also get brought down into the Devonshire magazines Art Exhibitions listings FREE. REGISTER NOW Just Google southdevonhub or eastdevonhub Sarah Jack - 'Lynmouth Lightboat' - Steam Gallery at Beer - see box below
83 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth PL3 4JN Tel: 01752 255020
Fine Art Trade Guild Commended and Award Winning Picture Framers
We pride ourselves on design and technical knowledge. Conservation and the framing of 3D objects is our speciality, however, you’ll also find basic ready made frames and mounts. Family run picture framers offering a comprehensive framing service for over 30 years. 10 Bank St, Newton Abbot, TQ12 2JW 01626 335965 framesandboxes.co.uk Mon to Fri 9am-5.30pm Sat 9am-4.30pm
GALLERY & FRAMING CENTRE
Perfect for Christmas Terrific range of prints from JACK VETTRIANO and BRIAN POLLARD. Plus just in new originals and prints from leading South West artist DICK TWINNEY. Come and visit us at the Barbican, Plymouth. www.kayagallery.co.uk 01752 267474 53 Southside Street, The Barbican, Plymouth
Sarah Jack
NEW GALLERY!
We think Sarah has a rare and exciting talent and we have now received a fresh grouping of work large and small. Do come and see them at Steam Gallery at Beer.
Artmill Gallery 2 7 Anzac Street, Dartmouth TQ6 9DL 01803 835567
An exciting and original artist.
www.steamgallery.co.uk 01297 625144
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
Come and see us in Dartmouth:
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm
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GLASS!!
Bespoke fused glass designs made in Devon by gallery owner/ artist Ian Nicholls
Come and see our wonderful, eclectic range of Christmas gifts and decorations.
Also showcasing work by many other leading glass artists
3 Foss Street Dartmouth TQ6 9DW 01803 833383 23 Southside Barbican Plymouth PL1 2JN 01752 204069
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Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
The new Glass!! website has been launched! Come and visit us at www.dartmouthglass.com
www.facebook.com/PlymouthAndDartmouthGlass
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Art Galleries
Above: ‘Caught in the Light’ - 38x33cm - £695 Left: ‘Lynmouth Lightboat’ - 60x90cm - £2750 Sold
Steam Gallery at Beer recently introduced the work of a new artist on the scene, Dorset based Sarah Jack. We are genuinely excited by the innovation and drama Sarah has built into her paintings. They truly “jump off the wall.” Apart from their success in the gallery they proved a sell out when we took them to the Affordable Art Fair in London. Sarah creates a foundation for her painting by layering overlapping cuts of paper, card, scrim and sacking
onto board. Pigment is then applied then wiped and sanded to expose the depth in the work. Her themes play on nineteenth century settings, fishing villages, cotton mills, industrial heritage all presented with tremendous perspective and intrigue. We think Sarah has a rare and exciting talent and we have now received a fresh grouping of work large and small. Do come and see them!
New Artist at Steam
Sarah Jack
01297 625144
www.steamgallery.co.uk
01297 625257
01297 625144
Above: ‘Around the Bridge’ - 32x28cm - £645 Right: ‘Behind the Sea Wall’ - 44x26cms - £695
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
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E X H I B I T I O N
BRIAN RICE RARE EARLY PRINTS FROM TOP LEFT: Radio 1969, Red Assembly 1964, Six Squares on Brown 1969, Hadari e Migi e 1963, Nine in One, Artalla 2006
12 DEC 2014 - 12 JAN 2015
amanda popham
tinavlassopulos
bryony rich
zsuzsi morrison
neil anderson
anotherdimension at the brook gallery
.
EXHIBITIONS CORPORATE SOURCING CONSULTANCY
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Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
01395 443 003 Fore Street art@brookgallery.co.uk Budleigh Salterton Devon EX9 6NH Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Artswww.brookgallery.co.uk & all things Devon!
Open: 10.30am - 5.00pm Closed all day Mondays and Sunday mornings
Devonshire
The
BRINGING YOU DEVON'S FINEST
The NEW Devonshire website A great new art community online
AR T IS T
AR T IS T
AR T IS T
AR T IS T
Ray Balkwill, one of Devon’s leading artists, famous for his Exe Estuary paintings
Sarah Jack, professional artist exhibiting around the UK Now at Steam Gallery at Beer
Alan Cotton, world renowned artist, based in Devon. Represented by Messum’s Fine Art, London
Kay McDonagh, South East Devon based painter and printmaker. Kay supplies galleries throughout the UK
E XHIB I T I O NS
G AL L ER IE S
AR T B O O K
CR AF T & M AK ER S
Art Exhibitions from Devon, streamed in from the eventhubs, with over 750,000 views in 10 months
Devon’s most important galleries are accessible to view online via the Art Galleries section
We’ll be featuring new book releases and DVDs from artists on the website
From ceramics to jewellery, textiles to print, over 2015, this will become a comprehensive resource.
An invaluable resource on all things Devon, permanently available for your reference www.devonshiremagazine.co.uk
If you’re an artist, maker or gallery owner, we’d love to speak to you contact Richard or Nigel on 01395 513383
Note: currently we have a massive backlog of content to upload, please bear with us Absolutely NO adverts - animations, pop-ups, scrolling, bouncing, flashing, They’re permanently banned!
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.ukmobile and desktop On tablet,
Get the digital magazine FREE and the Devonshire News which gives notifcations of news and features. Just visit the website and subscribe. 25
We can all participate in this scheme to ensure our local towns remain vibrant, interesting places to shop and relax.
LOCAL The Devonshire magazine created the Shop Local scheme in September with the purpose of reminding residents of the value in spending their money locally. Every pound spent locally will circulate in our local economy and not be lost to some faceless internet company or out-of-town hyperstore.
You can do your bit, just don't forget to use your local shop s, eateries, businesses, it's that easy!
Nigel Jones - Editor
Dog Coats from Gilberts Pet & Aquatics see advert below far right
W W W. PA P E RW O R K S . U K . C O M
PA PE RW OR KS
Unique bespoke leathercraft from: Brodequin see advert below left
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Come and see our great range of papery gift ideas - including classic stationery, decorative journals and albums, bunting and pompoms, Christmas cards, giftwrap sheets & rolls and lots more . . .
Visit us at
63 HIGH STREET TOTNES DEVON (open 7 days a week until Christmas)
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
TEL 01803 867009
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
BATHE at ARTISANS and ARTISTS stock an extensive range of high quality perfumes, toiletries and home fragrances. Brands stocked include Ortigia, Neom, Dr Vranjes, etc. 01364 653276 www.bathetheworld.com
MOSS BROSS now at Austins, Newton Abbot The major recent refurbishment of the Mens Store at Austins has seen many new brands available now, including Gant, Animal, Superdry, White Stuff, Dents and of course the Moss Bross department. They've recently carried out a total refurbishment of their Toy Store also.
Shoes for every occasion from BeauShoes see below
GILBERTS PET & AQUATICS
40 Fore Street, St. Marychurch, Torquay Tel: 01803 329149 www.gilbertspets.co.uk For all your pet’s needs, including a range of premium feeds, accessories and health care products. Visit our large fish room, with a choice of Tropical and Cold Water fish. Friendly and helpful service is our speciality. Free local deliveries or Click & Collect now available: itsapetthing.co.uk
CLASSIC
18 North Street, Ashburton, TQ13 7QH Tel: 01364 653322 Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm info@beaushoes.co.uk www.beaushoes.co.uk
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
27
The Studio, 5 St Lawrence Lane, Ashburton, Devon, TQ13 7DD Tel: 01364 652155 Email: mail@kate-higham.com Open Mon-Sat 10.30am - 4.30pm www.kate-higham.com
Victoria Sewart Contemporary Jewellery Gallery
Christmas Collections - From Precious to Playful
Gift ideas for everyone with our diverse range of stunning jewellery. The gallery is one of the most interesting jewellery galleries in the South West featuring many local and British designers. Collections are created from gold, diamonds, acrylics, wood and many other contemporary and traditional materials. There is something for everyone and if not, then your can always learn how to make your own, on the many popular jewellery courses held above the gallery.
For more Jewellery, Online Shop and Jewellery Workshops (including ‘Making Your Own Wedding Rings’) visit us at: www.victoriasewart.com
39 Southside Street The Barbican Plymouth 28
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
victoria sewart
01752 220011
18ct YELLOW GOLD PERIDOT AND DIAMOND RING Lasting Impressions £3,270
WREATH PENDANT 22 carat gold set with white diamonds Erin Cox Jewellery from £1,499 BESPOKE DIAMOND WEDDING RING Lasting Impressions £4,220
AQUAMARINE & DIAMOND Ring set in 18 carat gold Kate Higham Artisan Jeweller £2,950
Christmas Treats
BLUE SPINEL RING Erin Cox Jewellery fron £899
HANNAH BEDFORD SILVER WITH 18ct GOLD STUDS Victoria Sewart £118
ARTISAN MAKERS:
www.kate-higham.com
victoria sewart
PHOEBE JEWELLERY SILVER ANTLER STUDS Victoria Sewart £50
ARTISAN MAKERS:
SILVER OPAL BOULDER EARRINGS Kate Higham Artisan Jeweller £795
www.victoriasewart.com
www.erincox.com
40a Fore Street, Bovey Tracey 01626 833177
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
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NEWTON ABBOT Christmas events Victorian Evening - Late Night Shopping - Wednesday 3rd December
From 6pm onward. In Market Square and Market Walk, charity stalls, the Mayor’s Christmas Draw and carols from local schools. Santa in his Clock Tower Grotto, free balloons, street entertainment, bell ringing, live music and more! Festive dancing in the Indoor Market. Plus - Christmas Food Fayre at St Leonards Clock Tower.
Christmas Street Fayres - Late night Wednesday 3rd December Christmas Food Producers Fayre at the Clock Tower.
Late Night Wednesdays 10th & 17th December
Market stalls throughout the town and in closed-to traffic Queen Street. Crafts, gifts & world food. Great live music and street entertainment.
Lantern Parade & Carol Service - Wednesday 10th December
From 6.30pm Procession of Lanterns through the town, from local school children, which finishes at St Leonards Clock Tower for the Mayor’s Carol Service at 7pm. Public lantern making workshops on Saturday 6th December. Call Kelly on: 01626 201120 for details.
Santa’s Grotto - Wednesday 3rd, 17th December at 6.30pm-8.30pm Saturday 6th, 13th & 20th December at 11.00am-1.00pm In St Leonard’s Clock Tower. No Entrance Fee.
Donʼt forget - parking is free after 6pm and on Sundays! 30 Countryside, History,Sally Walks, Events, the Arts & all893151 things Devon!for more information Devonshire magazine.co.uk Visit www.newtonabbot-tc.gov.uk or call on 07595
NS
Merry Christmas
ALL SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
Newton Abbot TQ12 2DU Open Sundays 11.00am - 4.00pm 01626 333444 FREE PARKI N G AUSTINS www.austins-uk.com Store ALL SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
Department Store
Newton Abbot TQ12 2DU Open Sundays 11.00am - 4.00pm 01626 333444 FREE PARKING www.austins-uk.com
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
31
The Drake Memorial at Musbury Church Devon's churches are full of treasures, this one at Musbury Church near Axminster is truly astounding! Kneeling in prayers, three knights fully armed and dressed in their best attire, wives at their side. This solemn monument served as a sober and constant reminder to future Drakes, both of their illustrious ancestors and mortality. You have to ask yourself if there's a connection between these ancient Drakes of Aishe (or Ayshe, Ashe) and Sir Francis Drake, born near Tavistock. The eďŹƒgies at Musbury Church (near Axminster) are certainly lavish and expensive, and all three Drakes on the memorial were knights of the realm. They're an important ancient family with their own coat of arms. Sir Francis on the other hand, inherited no coat of arms and was from Crowndale Farm, Tavistock. More about this overleaf. If you're a Drake from this illustrious family, we'd love to hear from you.
The Drake memorial at the church of St Michael, Musbury The Drake family memorial (right) was built in 1611. It includes Sir John Drake and wife Amy, Sir Barnard Drake and wife Garthrud, and Sir John Drake with wife Dorothye. Ashe (De Esse or Aishe/Ayshe) House was nearby, which was the seat of the Drake family. Tragically, it was destroyed in the civil wars, it's now a farmhouse.
The link between the Drakes of Aishe and that famous seafarer Sir Francis Drake? ..read overleaf.. St Michael's Church, Musbury
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Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Another Drake tomb at St Lawrence church, Southleigh The plaque (right) is that of Robert Drake and wife Elizabeth Prideaux. Robert lived at Wiscombe Park and was the brother of Sir Bernard Drake of Colcombe Castle, Colyton ( you may
have seen the pub in the square bearing the Colcombe Castle name). Robert's parents were John Drake and Amy Granville of Stowe.
Robert's son and daughter in law were William Drake of Wiscombe and Philippa Dennis of Holcombe. Robert's grandson was Thomas Drake of Wiscombe and wife, Helen Walker of Bampton. for What's On, visit: eastdevonhub .co.uk
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Sir Francis was, and probably remains, Devon's greatest achiever!
The
DRAKE MEMORIAL
Above - the Drake family memorial, built in 1611
Above left: Sir John Drake & wife Amy Middle: Sir Barnard Drake & wife Garthrud Right: Sir John Drake with wife Dorothye
Sir Francis Drake - a Buccaneer
Prominent feature of the Drake of Aishe arms - a wyvern (winged
creature with a dragon's head and reptilian body), wings displayed and tail nowed (knotted ) gules (red tincture/coloured )
The spat at Queen Elizabeth's Court... When Sir Francis Drake received his knighthood, the next step he took was to adopt the Drake of Aishe (Ash or Ayshe) arms ( presumably, he didn't have his own), which were argent, a wyvern, wings displayed and tail nowed gules (see illustration far right). Distinguished sailor, Sir Bernard Drake, rejected this claim by Sir Francis of kinship and refuted his right to bear the Drake of Aishe family arms. This was a dispute that resulted in a "box in the ear" being given by Sir Bernard to Sir Francis at Queen Elizabeth's court (recorded
in "Worthies of Devon" by John Prince). Subsequently,
Queen Elizabeth awarded Sir Francis his own coat of arms to assuage matters (see right).
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Sir Francis Drake is famous for his successful circumnavigation of the world between 1577-1580. The first attempt by Portuguese mariner Ferdinand Magellan was successful, but Magellan ultimately paid with his life and did not fi nish a complete personal circumnavigation Regarded with mixed feelings, at home and abroad, in England, many regarded Francis Drake with mistrust, having through guile, risen above his station. Others admired Drake as a hero. I think he's what you'd call a go-getter, being ruthless and fearless would help in his tough day-and-age. Francis's father John, was born in 1490 and acquired a lease from the Russell family on a farm called Crowndale, outside Tavistock. The two families must have developed a close relationship, as John's grandson, Francis, was named after the second Earl of Bedford. Sir Francis was profoundly religious and held twice daily religious services on board ship. The Royal Navy's website says of Drake: "he was the greatest sailor of his generation, the navigator Francis Drake went to sea aged 13 whilst living at Chatham as an apprentice on a small trading ship. The master left the ship to Drake, who sold it and sailed with his cousin, Sir John Hawkins. They made
the fi rst English slave-trading expeditions. Many English privateers dreamt of capturing one of the Spanish vessels returning to Spain with silver mined from the Andes. The Isthmus of Panama was the place to ambush Spanish ships, as the cimarrones (slaves who'd escaped Spanish capture) were keen to halt the Spanish ships. Drake was fortunate enough with the help of the cimarrones, to ambush a ship laden with silver and returned to England a very wealthy man. Queen Eli zabet h ( amongst other sponsors ), commissioned Drake to circumnavigate the globe. So, on the Golden Hind, Drake sailed the Straits of Magellan in the Pacific and raided Spanish treasure ships, before travelling up to the Americas, where he landed in what's now called California, which he named Nova Albion (New England ). Drake then cut west and stocked his ship with spices in the East Indies, after which he returned to England. This was an extraordinary feat of navigation by Drake, Magellan had previously navigated the globe, although he'd died in the process. What Drake's expedition had achieved, was to capture an estimated £600,000 worth of treasure, £300,000 of which went directly to the crown (more than the crown's income for a year). Subsequently, Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth and also made Mayor of Plymouth. Drake had obviously enraged the Spanish, due to his raid on Cadiz, where he occupied the town for 3 days and destroyed 26 enemy ships and much of the Spanish stores. The Spanish Armada was sighted in 1588 on the 19th of July, whilst Drake was famously, playing bowls on the Hoe. He's thought to have fi nished his game of bowls before making chase to the Armada, capturing the Rosario. Drake subsequently led an unsuccessful expedition to destroy the Armada (at the request of Elizabeth), and was in disgrace after returning empty handed. Drake subsequently led an expedition to the West Indies company with his friend Hawkins and died of yellow fever in Panama.
References: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich and the Royal Navy's website.
The Drake Arms Important for advancement, a coat of arms was an important addition to your credibility. Sir Walter Raleigh's awarded arms
Drake of Aishe arms
Sable a fess wavy between two pole-stars (Arctic and Antarctic) argent, and for his crest, a ship on a globe under ruff, held by a cable with a hand out of the clouds; over it this motto, Auxilio Divino; underneath, Sic Parvis Magna; in the rigging whereof is hung up by the heels a wyvern, gules, which was the arms of Sir Bernard Drake." "Worthies of Devon" (1697 - John Prince)
Argent, a wyvern (winged creature with a dragon's head and reptilian body) Gules (red tincture/colour) with the crest a dexter arm grasping a battle axe Sable (tincture of black), headed Argent (Argent being the tincture of silver - a kind of silver leaf ) and tail nowed (knotted ) gules These were the arms that Sir Francis, after being knighted, attempted to adopt, claiming he was kin of the Drakes of Aishe, living at Musbury, near Axminster.
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
SIR BARNARD DRAKE The chap who boxed Sir Francis Drake's ear over the disputed arms whilst at Queen Elizabeth's court
for What's On, visit: eastdevonhub .co.uk
35 75
Beautiful countryside, great local food producers, excellent restaurants and great chefs - all the ingredients to provide you with truly a memorable dining experience.
Fine Dining Photo (above) courtesy of Ross Heywood of Well Seasoned PR
WINTER BLISS
Good Hotel Guide 2015 Editor’s Choice Dog-Friendly Hotel “Spectacular Food! (And views of course.) We didn’t expect to find food quite like that on Dartmoor! No offense to Dartmoor, but it was truly fabulous... perfect, freshly-made and certainly not run-of-the-mill canapes in the lounge, followed by a glorious amuse bouche, and then three sensational, beautifully presented courses to write home about.”
01822 890403
www.princehall.co.uk
As the nights draw in and the days get colder, not to mention the nights, there's nothing better than stumbling into a warm, cosy hostelry, shaking off the overcoat and the cold weather gear to settle down next to a real fire. A lovely warming drink in hand let your eyes wander over a menu stuffed with seasonal delights, whether that's a warming soup or a full-on roast dinner, nowadays here in Devon, we are blessed with a cornucopia of locally reared, freshly caught and newly picked food. The culture of good food is certainly here to stay, consigned to the past are memories of micro waved or deep fried packet food that I remember from my youth. Now we have young talented chefs, not looking for fame and fortune but just trying to be great cooks, making every effort amplify the hard work of the farmers, breeders and suppliers who have invested time and love in their produce. So when the food is gone, your hunger satisfied and the cold has gone from your cheeks, give thanks as you hit the great outdoors again, that you live in a county built on great soil, great farming and blessed with great pubs and restaurants in which to enjoy the fruits.
Everything you need for Christmas...and the New Year!
Award winning, locally produced meat and fresh fish • A wonderful range of local, organic dairy products • Organic vegetables, Fairtrade goods, fresh flowers Cakes, pies, bread, cheese, ice cream • Fairtrade Christmas gifts, greeting cards • Hot drinks • Freshly cooked BBQ lunches most days
ORDER YOUR HAMS, TURKEYS & HAMPERS NOW!
Special Christmas Late Night Opening on Thursday 11 December
Now open all day Monday to Saturday Tuckers Yard, Chuley Road, Ashburton TQ13 7DG. Free parking right outside the door. 36
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
But here’s the thing... of designs like ‘crowns and anchors’ faded. Pushed into tattoo parlours by their mates, the most popular tattoos amongst conscripts at those times became “Mother” or the cheaper version “Mum”. Devonshire magazine’s dedicated tattoo research team can reveal that the most popular ‘first time’ tattoo adorning the bodies of Devonians in this day and age, (male and female alike) is – wait for it – ‘a small dolphin’. Following what is clearly a unisex icebreaker for the previously un-tattooed, second choice with ladies is revealed to be ‘stars and flowers’ intertwining with initials. A chap’s choice on the other hand - from the extensive a la carte menu on offer at all parlours - are
The Devon Tattoo
behind grog shops in seaside towns, from
bicep-encircling gothic barbed wire motifs,
whence they tattooed other sailors and, er,
albeit needled-in just a tad above the t-shirt
sailors’ girlfriends.
sleeve line.
TODAY you can be tattooed in more than 62 Tattoo removal in Devon is also possible.
different places in Devon – locations that is,
“It costs about £50 a session”, one tattooist
rather than parts of the body.
told us. Further enquiries reveal that The art is perhaps five thousand years old but
removing a ‘large tattoo’ (dinner-plate size)
the rebirth of the practise in modern times
can take eight and more laser treatment sessions and cost nearly £2,000.
can probably be traced back to the return of Captain Cook’s sailors from the South Pacific
Came World Wars One and Two - when many
in the mid-1700s.
thousands of young men were called-up for
The old adage, “tattoo in haste, regret at
the army before they had time to find a
leisure” still seems to hold good after 5,000
sweetheart back home - and the popularity
years.
who for a halfpenny brought us seventeen,
them for us, which is their way of dressing
Next day he dined on lobster (at 6 pence old
and, if he would have taken them, might
them, with pepper and salt, which cost us
money), “which was excellent and three
have had as many more for the same money”.
about a farthing; so that two of us and a
shillings cheaper than London”.
With these we went to dinner; the cook at
servant dined—and at a tavern, too—for
the inn (probably the Royal Castle) broiled
three farthings, dressing and all”.
Many of these old salts set up tattoo parlours
The price of fish DARTMOUTH has always been a good place to eat fish. When Daniel Defoe, the man who wrote Robinson Crusoe visited in the 1700s he recorded one great shoal of pilchards that came fleeing into the mouth of the river, pursued by a school of dolphin. It chased them up as far as Totnes Bridge. “so that the country people who had boats and nets catched as many as they knew what to do with, and perhaps lived upon pilchards for several days”. “We sent our servant to the quay to buy some,
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
- JOHN FISHER
37
SPECIAL PROJECT
Looking at local businesses excelling in their craft
We speak to Nick Whittaker of Honiton based construction company NJ Whittaker
The aftermath of the fire in March 2009 to the second 1830s built church in Kilmington.
Nick Whittaker (MD) of NJ Whittaker, the Honiton based chartered building company Nick started N J Whittaker in 1998 with a workforce of three working from an office above the garage in his new self- built home in the Hamlet of Weston Nr Honiton. They now employ up to twenty staff with an enviable reputation for quality of build and service in East Devon and the surrounding areas. Amanda Merchant - is the Devonshire magazine’s regular Home & Interiors contributor Amanda Merchant studied a ceramics degree at Cardiff, before deciding to focus her career in interior design. She worked as the international showroom designer, visual merchandiser and accessory designer for a London-based fabric house, specialising in linens, paisleys and embroidered accessories. Nowadays, between raising a daughter and further training, she writes and practises her interior design skills in South East Devon.
Does your business provide an exceptional service to customers? We can help you reach an exclusive audience Talk to Richard Woodward if you’d like to showcase your business on 01395 513383 38
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Nick Whittaker, director of NJ Whittaker Ltd, initially entered the building industry as a trainee for Bovis Construction, a sixteen year old boy. After working as a building surveyor contracts manager for various companies, he then decided to work freelance for a few years.
builds - from new build projects and refurbishments, to extensions and larger commercial projects. In addition to the contractor’s enviable reputation, the company is also a member of the Chartered Building Company (CBC). This is an important asset which potential customers
and surveyors, on a teamwork basis. Most of their turnover emanates from repeat business and recommendation by previous clients.
One thing that strikes you whilst looking at their website is the range of projects in which they’ve been involved. New build projects It was whilst he was building include “Georgian” style his own home he realised just architecture, contemporary The company’s 3.5 million how liberating it would be to designed bungalows and large dwellings with attached set up on his own business, pound turnover is testament free from the shackles of how annexes, cottages in natural to its solid reputation others chose to do things. He stonework and agricultural felt that he could provide a tied dwellings. They have much better service independently, recognise as valuable reassurance. completed refurbishments and and hence, NJ Whittaker was created Some key aspects to consider when conversions on stately homes, from an office above his newly built choosing a contractor include good churches and barns. One of the garage. business practice, specialist and listed farmhouse refurbishments even well trained staff, compliance with used the traditional natural products Today the company employs a total of all relevant statutory and contractual of cob, hempcrete, thatch and lime over twenty in-house local craftsmen, requirements, insurance for relevant plaster. Of course there have also a far cry from the original three at risks, and a complaints procedure been many commercial builds ranging its modest beginning, sixteen years which can be dealt with quickly and from veterinary hospitals, offshore ago. The company’s 3.5 million pound equitably. There is an emphasis on a pools and cafes, however, there is turnover is testament to its established partnership approach at NJ Whittaker, one current project which is shining reputation in creating high-end quality working closely with clients, architects, out incredibly brightly.
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Rising from the ashes, the new Baptist Church at Kilmington
The new church nearing completion, located next to the village community hall in Kilmington. The design is a fusion of contemporary and traditional design and materials.
Your essential home project resource
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Above: The interior gives a modern light and airy feel to the main worship area. Below: The first Baptist Church in the area “ Loughwood Meeting House “ dating back to 1650.
Utilising their network of contacts, N J Whittaker can assist with the design, competitive costing and creation of bespoke kitchens. “The Beacon” is the newly constructed Kilmington Baptist Church. This is a vast contrast to the roots of this church, which go back to Loughwood Meeting House, where local Baptists began to meet in 1650. This building was carefully hidden amongst woodlands and into the hill, to avoid discovery by the County Officers, who often sought to arrest Baptists in this era of religious persecution for nonconformists. A congregation was started in the 1830’s in a newly constructed chapel in Kilmington, which became known as Kilmington Baptist Church. This chapel was also unobtrusive, designed in such a way that it was tucked into hiding within the village. The chapel
On this project N J Whittaker were engaged at an early stage providing “value engineering” to meet the client’s budget and still achieve a ‘quality’ end product.
became a very much accepted part of the local community, with its congregation stretching out across the Axe Valley. However, in March 2009, the premises were destroyed in a very serious fire, since which time the Church have been worshipping in Kilmington Village Hall and other local venues. The new “high profile” build stands on a beautiful plot of land which is secured in the heart of the village adjacent to the village hall. This fantastic new build will not only be a place of worship, but will be a place which will be welcoming to all. It has been created as a flexible facility,
Refurbishment of listed buildings and barn conversions are a speciality of N J Whittaker .
Bathroom designs are key to most houses. NJ Whittaker can advise how to achieve a high end finish without spending a fortune.
including a quiet room, two meeting rooms, a kitchen, an office and a very large hall as well as the worshipping space itself with a large, tiled, baptising bath built in by the alter. The build itself is a fusion of traditional and contemporary design, a perfect mix which reflects the faith’s locally developed journey from 1650 to the present day. The powerful name and large structure of today’s church is so symbolic of the solid congregation who have ploughed on through the last few hundred years, avoiding persecution and worshipping in hiding. This building is a proud statement of what hope, belief and faith
NJ Whittaker has undertaken a variety of house extensions and renovations stately homes. for What's On, visit: including southdevonhub .co.uk
can achieve, so understandably there is a huge responsibility of completing the project perfectly. For NJ Whittaker Ltd, it has been an honour to have been trusted with the construction of such a unique and rare project as this. The Beacon will provide an excellent environment for the local community to gather and worship for many more generations to come, and it’s been nothing less than a privilege for all involved in the construction of this unique project. Amanda Merchant
The quality of workmanship shines through on this new build property in West Hill. 39
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Funny Old Christmas Traditional pantos have changed, reckons our man in the gallery, John Fisher - but not so Christmas crackers! MILKING THE LAUGHS: Jeffrey Holland is Dame Trot in Jack in the Beanstalk at Theatre Royal, Plymouth (Photo: Clare Tregaskis)
PANTOMIME WAS A HAPPY RELEASE for pent-up society at the height of all that Victorian prudishness. This was the age when it was considered bad form not to cover the naked legs of pianos and billiard tables lest they induced lewd thoughts in the minds of men and women alike. Conversely buxom young actresses - well, some were not that young but all were certainly buxom were poured into pale pink tights, draped in ultra-short tunics and paid money by canny theatrical management to stride the stages of music halls at Christmas time, playing young men s parts for all they were worth. They may have been billed as Principal Boys but they fooled no one.
VESTA TILLEY as Prince Charming
To cries from the chaps in the audience of Brava! they slapped their thighs at every entrance and exit and never missed an opportunity to display their talents as they climbed beanstalks, scaled battlements or up-staged the Ugly Sisters in the kitchen scene with one leg up on a chair (round the
46
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
audience s side of the table of course) as they toyed with Cinder s affections.
Hanky panky Something for the ladies? Enter the Dame, played by a man, playing a single lady of a certain age, dressed to kill and desperately in search of a man. Any man. One of the Bailiff s men was fair game, or Baron Hard-up perhaps, or what about the smaller of the two funny painters who come in to decorate her boudoir at the start of Act II? Just so long as the laughs were outrageous and guaranteed to fly straight over the heads of Augusta, Little Willy and the twins. No wonder it took five adults to take one child to the pantomime for this annual spectacle. In addition to dear Papa of course, you can bet that his singleton brothers, Uncles Harry and George could always be relied upon to escort the kids and especially to the famous panto at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, which had scores of young chorus girls, dozens of costume changes and could last up to five hours. Nowadays pantomime posters draw the crowds by splashing the names
and images of celebrities from tv soaps in the main roles but in the late 1890s it was the special effects that packed them in.
the songs that had made them famous - and part of theatrical history - like Peter Pan - went out of the window.
Pa ntomime had beca me increasingly focused on creating wonder, with elaborate sets and special effects, none more so than Drury Lane, but provincial music halls were quick to follow suit. Hydraulic stage machinery was installed in some theatres as early as 1896, enabling ever-more spectacular and frequent scenes to be added to the production. In 1900 at the Theatre Royal, Sleeping Beauty and the Beast was conjured out of two popular fairy stories to delight the Christmas crowds. The plot allowed for sets that included the Haunted Vaults of the Palace, the Fairy Parliament, and the Enchanted Crystal Garden. The fi nale was the climax of eight different scenes which represented Beauty s wedding gifts, each involving a vastly elaborate set change, a staircase and multi-jetted fountain lit with coloured lights.
Funny business But as Music Hall became an increasing part of the action with the introduction of stars like Dan Leno and Florrie Forde - the traditional stories and their telling began to fade into the limelight as gas light gleamed and electricity fl ickered on the horizon and the stars went into their routines and
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
DAN LENO as Mother Goose
In 1885 these changes caused a man called Edward Blanchard, who wrote pantomimes for a living, to write to a friend: My smooth and pointed lines are turned into ragged prose and arrant nonsense. Hardly anything done as I intended or spoken as I had written, the music hall element is crushing the rest and the good old fairy tales never to be again illustrated as they should be. His friend probably wrote back, Oh, no they re not! to which he must have felt duty bound to reply, Oh, yes they are! As they played to the adult part of the audiences with risqué humour - and the younger element with strings of sausages, slapstick, ghosts and custard pies - the double entendre came into its own, and
has remained a fi rm part of the tradition ever since. The theatre critic Michael Billington, who writes for the Guardian, wrote of the performance of Ian McKellen in the 2004 production of Aladdin at the Old Vic McKellen (has) an appetite for double entendre (and) adopts a suitable look of mock-outrage. At least we can tell our grandchildren that we saw McKellen s Twankey and it was huge.
Pantomime s other great Christmas tradition was the Christmas cracker. It was the fi nale of every Drury Lane panto when, after a certain number of curtain calls, a gigantic cracker was carried to the front of the footlights by the principals who organised two teams of children to take sides and pull. As the smoke cleared, hundreds of wrapped sweets, small toys, whistles and rolled-up paper hats spilled out onto the stage and were thrown to every part of the audience. Wellheeled children in the boxes as well as those on hard wooden benches up amongst the gods all got a gift.
not just a sweet or a small toy to the inside of each of his crackers - but printed mottos and jokes. Those same jokes - or so it seems - continue to be resuscitated and recycled in different forms, year after year.
You pays your money... Not that all crackers contain jokes. The most expensive we could fi nd this year are from the American maker MacKenzie-Childs and are being sold by Fortnum and Mason and cost £500 for six. They are packed with surprises of the most impressive and luxurious kind. But no jokes we are told. Meanwhile, in another part of the forest, Tesco s crackers are understandably f lying off the shelves at £4 for twelve and do contain jokes. Oh, yes they do! We know because their marketing people in head office were kind enough to open a box for Devonshire magazine and look. We hope we won t be spoiling too much of the yuletide fun for you if we explain that there are still essentially THREE types of cracker jokes doing the rounds in all half-decent boxes of crackers this Christmas. They can be loosely categorised as follows:-
Chestnuts What do you call a blind reindeer? No eye deer What do you call a man with brown paper trousers KING OF CRACKERS: Tom Smith
The man who supplied the London theatres with these giant crackers was also the man who invented table crackers. His name was Tom Smith (above) and he ran his confectionery business ‒ later to become his cracker business from Wilson Street, Finsbury, not a stone s throw from half the music halls in the East End of London - which he probably frequented, armed with his note book and pencil. For after several false starts he hit on the bright idea of adding ‒
Russell What do you call a woman who lights her gas bill? Bernadette
Groaners
Your essential home project resource How do you know when
you have an elephant in bed with you? He has a big ‘E’ on his pyjamas
Ones-That-Have-ToBe-Explained What do you call a pig with four eyes?
where to pull a cracker of a christmas show in devon this holiday time
A piiiig. What do you do when you see a spaceman? Park in it, My girlfriend’s got a new job in a bowling alley. Tenpin? No. It’s permanent. TOP TIP: Jokes in any of these categories appear to get funnier after a glass of prosecco, followed by say, a Merlot, and finally a sauterne with the pud.
Ancient & Modern THE WORST JOKE OF ALL of course is several hundred years old and is saved for Christmas lunch each year. It is wheeled out relentlessly as the turkey is carved: Right then! echo the spirits of Great Uncles Henry and George, Who wants stuffi ng? - which remark is the signal for the sherry drinkers amongst the congregation to collapse into helpless, uncontrollable laughter. It is also the sign that the mobile phones of Augusta, Little Willy and the twins should now be turned to stun , the house phone taken off the hook, the drawbridge pulled up and for everyone to get down to the seriously evergreen business of enjoying the pleasures of the table again this Christmas. The toast once more is Good health - and absent friends!
EXETER George s Marvellous Medicine Northcott Theatre (9th December ‒ 4th January) PLYMOUTH Jack and the Beanstalk Theatre Royal (19th December ‒ 17th January) DARTMOUTH Sinbad the Sailor Dartmouth Community Theatre, Flavel Centre (28th ‒31st December) PLYMOUTH The Wizard of Oz Barbican Theatre 12th December ‒ 4th January BABBACOMBE Once Upon A Time at Christmas Babbacombe Theatre 3rd & 10th, 17th, 26th, 28th December and 1st January DAWLISH Aladdin Dawlish Repertory Company Shaftesbury Theatre 9th ‒ 17th January 2015
JOHN FISHER
What’s furry and minty? A polo bear What do you get when you cross a lion with a snowman? Frostbite
PS - to get details of forthcoming seasonal events, don t forget to visit the eventhub - the place to find out What s On in Devon. Editor
for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk
OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD at the Barbican, Plymouth
47
The Old Vet’nary by Ken Watson
Ladies of Character a friendly, family practice
Not far from the village of Crapstone
On Tavistock Road just up from my
in West Devon, a very independent,
Plymouth surgery, dwelt a lady and
eccentric lady bred Arab horses. I
her delightful Harlequin Great Dane.
believe in horse breeding circles she
I would often call to treat the dog,
had a good reputation. Although in
but the brevity of the dog’s life soon
her eyes I could do no wrong, having
caught up and the day arrived when
cured her long standing leg ulcer using
I was called to put her to sleep. Just
a veterinary aerosol, I was not allowed
as I completed the task her next door
near her Arabs. This honour fell to
neighbour dropped round to give
a friend of mine in a neighbouring
moral support. The client said to
practice. Frankly he was welcome. Her
me, ‘‘Come in the next room where
many household pets gave me enough
I have your money’’. I followed her
trouble. Yet here I must digress with
obediently. The moment we entered
a few amazing facts. The Arab horse
the room she turned and flung her
has 17 ribs instead of the usual 18. It
arms around me, sobbing on my
also has a concave muzzle, but most
shoulder. I was saddened by the end
amazing is that if you trace the spine
of this lovely dog but this seemed to be
up from the base of the tail, between
overdoing things a bit. Looking over
the 13th and 14th vertebrae it is very
her shoulder I spotted my money on a
flexible. This allows the horse to ‘stand’
nearby table. Time was always pushing
and ‘dance’, a characteristic which
at my daily round so I thought I might
has passed onto the Lippizaner horse
speed things up a bit and reach out to
made famous by the Spanish School
pick it up. Just then the neighbour,
she said, pointing to a dense clump of
on a bush and was pulled down to her
of Riding, although the horses were
concerned by the sobbing, burst into
bushes in front of the house. “You start
waist, revealing the fact she was almost
actually bred in Austria.
the room. The tableau which met her
that end and I will start this end”, she
completely flat chested. Without any
eyes must have given her something
said, “and we should flush him out”. It
hesitation she looked me in the eye
to think about.
was a hot summer’s day so I removed
and said “As you may have noticed,
But back to the lady horse breeder.
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In her later years she became frail and took to sleeping downstairs in her
'Wilson'
rather chaotic lounge. I remember calling one day and the large floor area
by Richard Woodward
of the lounge was covered with various bedding, for no one could call her a tidy person. Suddenly the telephone started to ring, but muffled. It was somewhere under the bedding. We both commenced a feverish search. I believe I was the first to locate the extension cord and I tracked it along to the phone.
to change
Whilst she was thus in her dotage, a long lost nephew, a rather flashy 18 year old, suddenly appeared on the scene and became very helpful. I remember, during one visit, I brought up the matter of her account. She protested she was unable to pay me
One of the loveliest ladies I ever met
my jacket, but she was already suitably
my sun-top is completely superfluous”.
because she had mislaid her cheque
was the wife of the local MP of those
dressed in a light skirt and sun top.
Now that’s what I call a lady!
book. ‘‘I know where it is’’, he piped
days who lived in a beautiful mansion
What I believe today would be called
K. Watson - K.Watson
up. He pulled open a drawer in a side
above Harcombe. One day I called to
a boob tube. We worked our way
table and there it was! I was paid,
treat her cat but her was nowhere to
through to within a couple of yards
but what would you have thought?
be found. “He’s in there somewhere,”
of each other when her tog snagged
48
Devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Horse Care
to keep warm, and you will have a
Stabling prevents this and so stabled
slimmer, healthier horse by the spring.
horses are more likely to suffer from
Feeding horses successfully is both an
musculoskeletal problems, respiratory
art and a science but for all horses and
disease and digestive disorders. To
Winter
ponies the aim should be to easily feel
help keep your horse healthy if he
but not see the ribs.
must be stabled:
Forage in the diet is a main source
1. Feed hay off the floor to mimic the
by Natalie Bucklar
of warmth for the horse because the
natural posture of a grazing horse.
process of fibre digestion in the large
Hay nets can be detrimental to
intestine releases a large amount of
the horses back and respiratory
Natalie Bucklar gives valuable advice on various aspects of horse care and welfare...
The Winter Months
heat. So as grass quality and quantity
2. Feed ad-lib hay or haylage, making
or haylage in the field as well as when
sure your horse has sufficient
the horse is stabled. This also serves
to last the night. Long periods
Feeding
another purpose in minimising the
without forage can cause ulcers
risk of gastric ulcers. A horse turned
and colic, not forgetting it is
Put simply, if a horse receives more
out on very little grass all day will have
energy in its diet than it needs for
insufficient food going through the
3. Use dust free bedding and
day to day living, it will put on weight
stomach; this drastically increases the
muck out when the horse is
but if it receives less energy than it
risk of gastric ulcers because the acid
outside. Dust and ammonia are
needs it will lose weight. The energy
present in the stomach starts to attack
severely detrimental to a horse's
requirements of a horse increase
the stomach lining in the absence of
respiratory system. By the time
during the winter months and
food. Over 60% of leisure horses have
a horse coughs and/or has nasal
for many horses this extra energy
been shown to have gastric ulcers.
Natalie Bucklar
Natalie has owned horses for over 20 years and owns a local Riding Academy.
feeding hay. However in horses who cannot maintain their condition on
mentally unhealthy too.
discharge, damage has been done.
requirement can be provided by BSc (Hons), MSc (Equine Science)
system.
decrease, it is important to provide hay
4. Soak hay for 30 minutes before
Stabling and Health
feeding to reduce spores. 5. Turn out as much as possible to
just hay, extra hard feed is required
Many horses spend more time stabled
allow your horse to move and roll.
to increase the energy in the diet.
in the winter, which is alien to their
Just think how stiff you would be if
Conversely, avoid feeding additional
physiology; horses are naturally
you stayed in bed 23 hours a day.
hard feed to an overweight horse,
designed to move almost continually,
so the horse uses its own reserves
eating little and often in the open air.
Devonshire
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Janet East is the proprietor at Yellingham Farm, also running a Farmhouse B&B establishment www.yellinghamfarm.co.uk 01404 850272
by Janet East of Yellingham Farm
My Dream...
M
y dream... to have wonderful children staying at our farm enjoying what they see only on the television, xbox and other reality (not) programmes. Real fields, grass, sheep, cows, bullocks, chickens. Before moving to Yellingham we knew that the farm would not sustain a family of 4 - too small and heck there was some work to do as well. So the major plan was for me to farm and Edward to carry on working full time as Executive Chef doing what he did well - cook. The only link to farming that Edward has is cooking the results that’s where it starts and finishes, but he does a great job
farm life? “ Well, within reason, they must be safe” “Oh how exciting, they will love it”. Booked - 3 days and nights. Said family arrived and as expected the children were so excited. Two beautiful boys, flocks of wild blond hair, cheeky, wellies on before they had even got out of the car. No stopping these two - they were gone, heading off in the direction of the front field with my 6 dogs who immediately realised that they had got 2 new playmates. A short sharp whistle from me stopped my dogs in their tracks, and thankfully the boys came to an abrupt halt as well - excellent. Mum clearly had no control and I could see I was in for a full on 3 days with the boys. My dream? Oh heck! I could see within seconds that I needed to assert some authority over the boys as their dear mum was somewhat lacking in that department.
Within 12 months of moving I decided that a good quality B and B was the way forward to earn and inject some much need cash into the “Right boys - farms are wonderful places but you do business. A major part of my marketing plan was need just to listen to me before you go off exploring”. children - dreamy, well-behaved children. Ones A few rules and regulations read out - the dogs who would sit at the table, be polite, eat everything, are not pets, they’re working dogs and don’t do smile, laugh and I suppose... just be kids, but cuddles - please don’t jump off the haystack, watch ultimately learn a little about the wonderful world out for the ponds, the river, the dung heap. The of farming. Yes, I know - a dream to get all that boys were silent and nodding, mum was silent, in a small package! It is so wonderful to watch oblivious, nodding, and on her mobile phone. I felt children’s beautiful faces light up when they awful - it sounded like they couldn’t go anywhere collect a warm egg, laugh at a cow having an early or do anything. I was only interested in their safety morning release of the bowels - well, we all do it and my sanity. but maybe not in such an unashamed style, watch the cockerel enjoying his morning treat - got to The first morning the children were up before be done. me, ready and raring to go - no sight of mum somehow no surprise, but, hey- ho she was on The advertising and website I designed was totally holiday too. They were a delight and chatted nonchild friendly and focused on families and it stop as we let out the chickens, fed the ducks and worked - loads of families were booking. My then wondered off to check some sheep all before dream was underway. breakfast. Egg collecting is always a highlight for “Good morning Yellingham Farm, how may I help you, Janet speaking?” (I don’t really say that - what “bullocks”).
Their last day arrived too quickly and as a treat their mum asked if they could spend the whole day on the farm as the weather was so beautiful and hot and did I mind if they had a picnic. No problem - of course. It was not long before mum appeared in the farmyard ready for her day on the farm, complete with makeup... dressed, no less, in a bikini which understates the word - a mini-kini would be more appropriate. I watched in amazement as she set out her beach towel complete with sun tan cream, Ray ban sunglasses, book, bottled water and of course mobile phone (can only assume she thought David Hasselhoff might call !).
My dream was coming true, knowing that I had seen and helped children learn a little more about the beauty of farm life and nature at its best. The trouble was, Edward also spent the entire day focusing on what he thought was nature at its best!
Loads and loads of questions followed “Will Rupert and Theo be able to feed the chickens?” “Of course”. “Is there plenty of space for them to run around? “Yes 45 acres” “Can they totally involved in
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kids and I showed them exactly where to search. It wasn’t long before I heard squeals of delight and saw the boys rushing across the yard with a bucket full of eggs. Alarm bells rang immediately as I knew I had only a few hens laying. The eggs were dull, all white and very warm. I knew immediately that they weren’t new laid eggs. Oh no... in the distance I could hear one very, very unhappy chicken, rushing around, feathers all plumped up and showing signs of distress. Bless those dear little boys. In their quest for eggs they had searched everywhere and had come across my broody hen who had sat patiently on those eggs for nearly 3 weeks, the chicks due to hatch any day. Quickly, I took the boys hands, dragging them and the bucket and set off in haste for the little coop where she was sitting. With a lot of pecking from the angry hen we managed to put back the eggs back under her and she settled down on them quickly with a look of complete disgust on her face. Tears were welling up in the boy’s eyes and I felt so terrible. Clearly they thought I was cross but a little explanation from me and they were soon smiling again and rushed off to tell “sleeping beauty” what had happened and that chicks were due any day.
I had no problem with the whole set up. It was just the position she chose to sunbathe... right under my kitchen window, in the farmyard, on concrete for goodness sake. Edward glued himself to the window for the rest of the morning. “What are you looking at?” “Nothing.” “Why are your glasses steamed up?” “They’re not”. “Don’t tell lies...”
“I wonder if you have your family room available for myself and 2 children - your farm looks soooooooo lovely and my boys are both well behaved” (that’s a warning sign before you start ). Normally my guests are talking about their dogs when they say they’re well behaved and of course they are always quite the opposite, so I was prepared.
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Illustrations by Jim Stanes ©
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