Devonshire SOUTH & WEST ISSUE
JUNE & JULY 15 | FREE
Dartmouth Featured
THE BEST OF DEVON
CURIOUS TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING OF VALUE? It could pay to talk to Bonhams • • •
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Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
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A VERITABLE GEM
eastdevonhub southdevonhub middevonhub dartmoorhub WHAT'S ON?
The most comprehensive event promotion both online and offline bar none. Over 5,000 organisations registered for promoting their events. 1 Jan to 5 Nov - 754,478 views (audited)
A recent trip up the North Devon coastline reminded me why weʼre just so lucky living in Devon. Arriving at the delightful Har tland Abbey and taking the mile long walk down to the coast was an unforgettable experience, everything was beautiful without exception. The backdrop to the Abbey is stunning, the church appears amidst the trees on the ridge.
CONTRIBUTORS
Nigel Jones, Ted Gosling, John Fisher, Helen Mulvaney, Amanda Merchant, Averil Quinain, Janet East, FCR Esgen, Natalie Bucklar and Hazel Fergie.
EDITORIAL
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
Hannah Trim - 01392 580440 & 01395 513383 hannah@devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Devonshire
The
South & West issue
MAGAZINE ISSUES
Published bimonthly: Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct, Dec.
UNRIVALLED COVERAGE Biggest glossy Devon coverage! 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.devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon!
Hartland Abbey - totally charming
Dartmouth featured In this issue we’re delighted to feature the historic town of Dartmouth. A day spent in Dartmouth is never enough, because once you start ambling about you realise what an interesting place it is, with ancient alleyways, great shops, lovely architecture and much bustle as boats bob about in all directions. I recently spent a lovely day in Tavistock, which, if you haven’t visited, is a characterful and delightful town - it’s well worth a trip out to explore (incidentally, if you want to stay over by Tavistock, we have a great Reader Offer for Lewtrenchard Manor on the Devonshire website under Lifestyle/Holidays/within Devon). Invariably these days, you don’t just park up, you have to buy the ticket and then note the time to be back at the car to avoid a fine. At Tavistock you can pay £2 to park all day - no worrying about racing back to the car and actually the whole balance of your outing in town changes. I’m sure you’re much more likely to linger in town, and indeed spend more money, benefitting the town you’re visiting. Councils should really take note of
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION
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.
The
Devonshire THE BEST OF DEVON
SOUTH & WEST ISSUE
Now that we’re into the main summer months, as always a myriad of events kick off across the region. The EventHub event websites we run have reached a new milestone recently, the 5,000th organisation was registered in May, and the amount of events appearing on the Hub websites continues to amaze us at the office. We’re hoping to crack the 1,000,000 views mark in 2015. If you’re responsible for promoting your organisation’s events, make sure you register so you can get your events into these website (we also bring many events off the websites directly into various magazine titles giving extra free promotion). In June, we’ll be releasing the new improved version of the EventHub which has additional functions and will enable you to add photos to your events, also it’ll have a much simpler menu system as well as a section for Attractions. We’ll continue to develop the websites further through the year, with NorthDevonHub, WestDevonHub and WestDorsetHub coming shortly. Anyone out there looking for some extra cash and with their own transport is welcome to call us on 01395 513383. We’re keen to find someone to help with magazine deliveries in our South & West issue. All the best! Nigel Jones (Editor)
JUNE & JULY 15 | FREE
Dartmouth Featured
UK £15 OVERSEAS FROM £22
Tavistock’s policy on parking charges if they want to help local retail businesses prosper and also improve residents’ experience of their town.
@DevonshireMag
The Butterwalk at Dartmouth
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk N. Jones
3 Tulips at Hartland Abbey
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JUNE JULY 2015 ISSUE 19
34
Devonshire
Proudly flying the flag for Devon!
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3. Editor's Letter
16. Dartmouth Feature
34. Magnificent Belles
The latest from the Editor.
Devon's bustling coastal town.
Our sea bathing past - John Fisher.
5 Letter Box
26. Art Exhibitions
36. The Passivhous
Regional news snippets.
Major art events across Devon.
With Amanda Merchant.
8. What's On
30. Fashion & Beauty
48. Reader Offer
Brought to you by EventHub.
Great places to indulge yourself.
A stay at Lewtrenchard Manor.
13. Nelson's Column
31. Here's the thing
50. Pet Corner
By Devonshire writer John Fisher.
By Devonshire's John Fisher.
The Old Vet'nary and Wilson.
14. Life Matters
32. Surf Time Sports
51. Yellingham Farm
The Devon Air Ambulance.
Getting afloat this summer.
From lady farmer, Janet East.
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
Letterbox YOUR NEWS TO THE EDITOR - LETTERBOX@devonshiremagazine.CO.UK
New owners at Totnes Rare Breeds Farm If you haven’t visited the Farm, you’re missing a great treat. Recently taken over by Sam Adams and her parents, the previous owners were retiring and Sam, having worked there for three years, was keen to continue the work of what she say is a ʻvery special place’. The new season is well underway, with everything looking very fresh and green. Sam said they were caught by surprise on Saturday 9th May when Patsy, one of their Pygmy goats decided to give birth two weeks early! She gave birth to triplets as the sun was going
down. Sadly, the first was stillborn and despite every effort the second was simply too small to survive. Then, just when all seemed lost, Patsy gave birth to a third! To everyone’s great relief, this little kid was a fighter from the moment she was born. She has been named Fenix (each year our kids start with a new letter of the alphabet, this year it is ʻF’). Sam is happy to say that Fenix is going from strength to strength at her mother’s side. She will have a good head start on the others, which we hope will be born at the end of this month... - Editor.
Meeting client challenges
The little fighter - Pygmy goat kid Fenix with mum Patsy
for over 15 years and are now using their experience of being landlords, tenants and investors to run their own successful Martin & Co franchise in Plymouth. They’ve found that the service from estate and lettings agents varies widely and they intend to draw on this knowledge in order to provide a top quality service to clients in their area.
Flagship office opens in Plymouth One of the UK’s largest letting agencies has opened up a flagship office in Plymouth. Located on Mutley Plain, Martin & Co Plymouth specialises in providing
a comprehensive range of lettings, sales and property management services. The owners, Chris and Merolyn Whitaker have been involved in property investment
Coming of age Now in its 18th year, one of Devon’s most established and respected galleries has taken on a second gallery in the beautiful Georgian, Barnfield Crescent in the centre of Exeter, just off Southernhay. This beautiful 5 room gallery space is a fitting home to the portfolio of nationally and internationally recognised artists which Brook is famous for bringing to the region. Although a commercial gallery, providing art sourcing and consulting services to numerous companies
“Given our past experiences, we feel that we are in a privileged position to understand many of the often overlooked needs of both landlords, tenants and vendors. We feel that we have a good understanding of the importance of applying attention to detail and ensuring that our business interests are well organised and effectively managed.”
and individual clients, the collections on show will rival most London galleries, providing a necessary and valuable resource to our own community of artists at whatever age. “I see this combination of Commerce and Culture becoming more and more necessary as we see the further reduction of public spending on the arts.” - Angela Yarwood, owner of Brook Gallery. Photo left - Angela Yarwood at Brook Gallery opening in Exeter. Visit www.brookgallery.co.uk
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
It is always fascinating to find out what businesses get up to in the course of their work. Speaking to Niki recently at her Plymstock based business, she explained to me how excited she has been to be involved with several prestigious projects, including Boringdon Hall on the edge of Dartmoor. This Elizabethan manor has been restored by previous owners following a fire in 1989. Niki has been working closely with the present owners, the Nettletons, to refurbish all the bedrooms and to beautifully upholster furniture around the hotel. Niki has loved helping to source fabrics that have enhanced the character of this stunning hotel. Recently, Niki has needed to act like a detective to find a way to digitally reproduce a fabric that is no longer manufactured and, fuelled by possibilities, is now very excited to be embarking on a new project to design her own fabrics. Niki can be contacted on 01752 403721.
A major milestone! The EventHub What’s On websites received their 5,000th registered organisation in May - the organisation being a Plymouth based musical collaboration comprising of Joanna Cooke and Nathan Austin (above). Also pictured, Devonshire magazine apprentice Freddie Shaw (right), who can be seen presenting the certificate. The EventHub is hoping to crack 1,000,000 views this year (860,000 in 2014), with major new improvements and functions being released on the website in early June, as well as NorthDevon and WestDevon HUBs launching shortly and new portalsLiveMusicDevon and MyDevonEvents also appearing later in the year.
500 0 Total number of organisations registered to promote their5 events on the EventHub websites
Devonshire fine homes
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Garden
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www.torquayrealestate.com
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Views overlooking Lyme Bay around to Dartmoor
Thinking of selling your fine home? 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.
Contact your agent or call the Devonshire magazine on 01395 513383
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
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Includes fully fitted carpets and stamp duty paid!
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SELLING YOUR PROPERTY IN 2015? Devonshire Get your property seen in Devonshire magazine 1,000+ high quality outlets 20,000+ magazines circulated per issue
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SOUTH & WEST ISSUE
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THE BEST OF DEVON
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Biggest glossy coverage for a Devon county magazine bar none The
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With over 1,000 magazine outlets across the Devon region receiving a guaranteed 20,000+ magazines per issue (audited), the marketing impact is massive and instant. Because Devonshire magazines is free to the public, they don't sit on news stands waiting to be bought, they're out there instantly, working for you.
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
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SIDMOUTH FOLK FESTIVAL
DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS at PRINCESS THEATRE
TIM VINE at EXETER CORN EXCHANGE
Forthcoming Events June & July 2015
Events listings powered by: southdevonhub and dartmoorhub
Ballet ROSEMARY WOODWARK SCHOOL OF DANCE SHOW 20 Jun - School,of dance show the nutcracker, Rosemary Woodwark School of Dance, Wool well centre, Woolwell, 6.00pm.
Choirs A THOUSAND YEARS OF SACRED MUSIC 06 Jun - Music by Byrd, Durufle, Tallis Rachmaninov & others with Vivaldi's Magnificat, Alvington Singers, Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, 7.30pm.
SUMMER CONCERT
Have you checked out the mobile version of southdevonhub .co.uk There's also dartmoorhub, middevonhub & eastdevonhub
Carnivals PLYMOUTH'S LORD MAYOR'S DAY
06 Jun - Summer Concert, Chagford Singers, St Michaels Church, Chagford, 7.30pm.
PLYMOUTH PHOENIX CHORALE 20 Jun - Summer Concert - English Country Garden theme & Last Night of the Proms, Plymouth Phoenix Chorale, Plymouth Guildhall, Plymouth, 7.30pm.
SASNCTA MATER 27 Jun - classical choral concert. Director: Michael Johnson, organ: Jason Smart, West Devon Chorale, Plymouth RC Cathedral, Plymouth, 7.30pm.
MUSIC THROUGH THE AGES
Classical Music
06 Jun - Commemorating the 200th anniversary of Napoleon's stay in Plymouth Sound, Plymouth City Council, Drake's Place, Plymouth.
13 Jun - Choral music medieval to modern with the Cathedral Choir, Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter, 7.30pm.
GARDEN PARTY
13 Jun - South West Chamber Choir, Harford Church, Ivybridge, 7.30pm.
05 Jun - Dame Emma Kirkby and friends Dowland's music for voices and plucked strings, Powderham Castle Organ Fund, Powderham Castle, Kenton, 7.30pm.
THE TORBAY SINGERS' SUMMER CONCERT
ROBIN BLAZE AND ELIZABETH KENNY
21 Jun - To include a choir, brass band,Royal Marine cadets, magician includes cream tea, Sense Devon Group, Ugbrooke House, Chudleigh, 2.00pm.
SOUTH BRENT CARNIVAL 27 Jun - Pop along to support the Saturday evening summer carnival, South Brent Carnival, Station Road, South Brent.
Children
SUNSHINE AFTER RAIN
13 Jun - Will Todd Mass in Blue together with Jazz Songs by Gershwin, Porter, Daldorph, Torbay Singers, The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Torquay, 7.30pm.
THANKS FOR THE MEMORY 19 Jun - The opening event of the Plympton St. Maurice Summer Festival, Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, Plympton St. Maurice Church, Plympton, 7.30pm.
DOWLAND AND FRIENDS
06 Jun - Solo songs by Dowland and Purcell from this top countertenor and lutenist, Totnes Early Music Society, The Great Hall, Dartington, 7.30pm.
CONCERT IN AID OF SAVE THE CHILDREN 14 Jun - Introduced by Mary Nightingale (ITN) and Joanna Briscoe (Author), Dartington Chamber Orchestra, Great Hall, Dartington, 3.00pm.
BEN AND HOLLY'S LITTLE KINGDOM 17 Jun to 18 Jun - BAFTA award winning animation, for the first time ever live on stage, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
STONE AGE SCHOOL - ROCK BAND
You can even search down to village level! 8
20 Jun - Learn about Stone Age music instruments and how they might have sounded, Kents Cavern, Cavern House, Torquay, 10.00am.
MAGAZINE DELIVERY PEOPLE WANTED We're looking for reliable people with a car to deliver our magazine. If you're interested please contact Nigel on tel: 01395 513383
nigel@devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
June & July 2015
Forthcoming Events EXETER RECORDED CONCERT SOCIETY
NATIVE MAKERS SUMMER MARKET
15 Jun - Enjoy recorded classical music with fellow music lovers, Exeter Recorded Concert Society, Southernhay UR Church, Exeter, 7.00pm.
06 Jun - Native Makers is holding an exciting summer market, Real Ideas Organisation, Devonport Guildhall, Plymouth, 10.00am.
RATHBONES SPRING CONCERT SERIES:SOLEM QUARTET
MOOR FORESHORE CRAFT & GIFT FAYRE, TAVISTOCK
17 Jun - Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 7.30pm.
13 Jun - A craft & gift fayre with a range of high quality items on sale, Moor Foreshore, Tavistock Town Hall, Tavistock, 10.00am.
SHALDON FESTIVAL 18 Jun to 21 Jun - One of the South West's premier classical music festivals 25 years young, Shaldon Festival, St Peter's Church, Shaldon, 7.30pm.
THE WATERLOO CONCERT 20 Jun - The Waterloo Concert to Celebrate our Soldiers, ABF The Soldiers Charity, Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, 7.30pm.
Totnes Rare Breeds outstanding in our field
CRAFT, ARTISAN, VINTAGE AND RETRO MARKET 21 Jun - Craft, Artisan, Vintage and retro Market, Totnes Christmas Markets, Totnes Market Square, Totnes, 10.00am.
DARTMOUTH ART & CRAFT WEEKEND 27 Jun to 28 Jun - Dartmouth Art & Craft Weekend in aid of Children's Hospice
Welcome to this small, family run attraction for a truly interactive and personal experience. Feed the naughty goats, touch the spines of a hedgehog and smooth the feathers of an Eagle Owl, plus so much more! A treat for the entire family.
Contact us: 01803 840387 contact@tontnesrarebreeds.co.uk
Contemporary Craft Festival
Collectors TOTNES BOOK FAIR 21 Jun - Totnes Book Fair, an annual event with the best in quality second-hand books, Totnes Book Fair, Civic Hall, Totnes, 10.30am.
Comedy DAVID SEDARIS 02 Jun - Tuesday evening comedy with David Sedaris, Plymouth Pavilions, Millbay Road, Plymouth.
TIM VINE 09 Jun - Tuesday comedy with Tim Vine: Tim Timinee Tim Timinee Tim Tim To You, Exeter Corn Exchange, Corn Exchange, Exeter.
JIMMY CRICKET 28 Jun - The ever popular Irish Comedian, Jimmy Cricket, is returning this June, Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, 8.00pm.
Craft THE CONTEMPORARY CRAFT FESTIVAL 2015 05 Jun to 07 Jun - Finest craft event in the S.W. celebrating the best of British designer making, The Contemporary Craft Festival, Address, Bovey Tracey.
South West, Children's Hospice South West, Dartmouth, Royal Avenue Gardens, Dartmouth, 10.00am.
Fairs CREDITON PARISH CHURCH FLOWER FESTIVAL Until 04 Jun - Exhibition with Flowers: ‘Music for the Moment’ - our annual floral exhibiti, Crediton Parish Church, Crediton Parish Church, Crediton, 10.30am.
CONTINUED OVERLEAF
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.
D. J. Offord
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What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
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middevonhub
October & November 2014 The technologically advanced
southdevonhub
Forthcoming Events All New Ford Focus
Featuring a completely restyled exterior and a more refined interior, the all new Focus is one of the most sophisticated cars to ever hit Britain’s roads. The new model features a wide range of remarkable new technologies. Optional extras at additional cost include:
GENERAL ALL DIFFERENT, ALL EQUAL
Mondeo Smart, spacious and great to drive, with a luxury interior and clever technology.
To experience these cars first hand contact Swanson Ford for a test drive.
Swanson Ford provide: • New car sales • Used car sales • Servicing • Parts • MOT’s • Finance Plus all the other facilities that you would expect from a Ford Main Dealer
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MATALAN
LITTLE VALLEY ANIMAL SHELTER SHELTER DAY
Festivals
Introducing the All New
GR
eastdevonhub
28 Jun - Come & join us for our annual open day & fun dog show, RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter, Little Valley Animal Shelter, Exeter, 11.00am.
• Ford SYNC 2 with Touch Screen Control • Enhanced Active Park Assist • Cross Traffic Alert • Active City Stop • Award winning EcoBoost engine
HALFORDS
dartmoorhub
06 Jun to 07 Jun - All Different, All Equal: Exeter Respect Festival, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Belmont Park, Exeter, 12.00am.
FATHER'S CLASSIC CAR DAY 21 Jun - Display of Classic Cars. Come and admire, or bring your own, Morwellham Quay, Address, Tavistock.
MUSIC KINGSKERSWELL SUMMER MOON FESTIVAL
Garden CHARITY GARDEN OPENING 14 Jun - Heaven in 4-acres. Teas, plants, produce for sale. 01803 782981. Middle Well, Stoke Gabriel, Devon, 11.00am.
Live music BRASS BAND SEA FRONT CONCERT 01 Jun to 29 Jun - Sea Front Concerts, every Monday night, weather permitting, Torbay Brass Band, Princess Gardens, Torquay, 7.30pm.
MUSIC FROM THE FILMS 07 Jun - Popular film music, for all tastes, Torbay Brass Band, Princess Gardens, Torquay, 2.00pm.
FOLK ROOTS & ACOUSTIC THE FABULOUS JULIE FELIX IN CONCERT
18 Jun to 21 Jun - Beer and Music Festival, Kingskerswell Summer Moon Festival, Parish Meadow, Kingskerswell, 11.00am.
06 Jun - The wonderful Julie Felix returns to Hazelwood with her guitar! Hazelwood House, Nr Loddiswell, Kingsbridge, 8.00pm.
17TH TEIGNMOUTH FOLK FESTIVAL
THE EAST POINTERS & SUPPORT WILDWOOD KIN
19 Jun to 21 Jun - Fantastic performances and a great atmosphere at this friendly little festival, Teignmouth Folk Festival, Main concert venue, Teignmouth.
08 Jun - From Canada's Prince Edward Island, World Unlimited, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Kingskerswell, 7.00pm.
SWANSON FORD
NEW DISCOVERY SPORT THE EXTRAORDINARY EVERY DAY
Meet the New Discovery Sport – the ultimate family car. The interior has flexible 5+2 seating and there’s enough load space for a day out, or a week away. New Discovery Sport features all-new safety technologies, such as Pedestrian Airbag and Autonomous Emergency Braking System, helping it achieve a maximum five star safety rating from Euro NCAP. Call Matford Land Rover today for more information.
Matford Land Rover
Waterbridge Court, Matford Park Road, Exeter, Devon EX2 8EL
01392 825825 www.matford.exeter.landrover.co.uk Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the New Discovery Sport range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 38.2 (7.4) – 40.4 (7.0), Extra Urban 49.6 (5.7) – 50.4 (5.6), Combined 44.8 (6.3) – 46.3 (6.1). CO2 emissions 166 – 162 g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle’s actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only. Image shown for illustration purposes only. Details correct at time of going to press. E&OE.
DEVONSHIRE MAGAZINE
10
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
June issue
June & July 2015
Forthcoming Events DECLAN SINNOTT WITH VICKIE KEATING
IVYBRIDGE COUNTRY MARKET
12 Jun - Declan Sinnott with Vickie Keating support Harbottle & Jonas, World Unlimited, Kingskerswell Parish Church, Kingskerswell, 7.00pm.
Fri - Locally produced cakes, pasties, preserves, local crafts and seasonal produce, Ivybridge Country Market, Scout Hut, Ivybridge, 8.30am.
ANGE HARDY LIVE IN CONCERT
BOVEY TRACEY FARMERS' MARKET
19 Jun - Ange Hardy performs solo bringing her folk music with a twist to Torquay, Great Western Roots Music, 1 Edenhurst Court, Torquay, 8.00pm.
13 Jun & 27 Jun - Local produce & delicacies every alternate Saturday, Bovey Tracey Farmers Market, Town Square, Bovey Tracey, 8.30am.
JAZZ
DARTMOUTH FARMER'S MARKET 13 Jun - Choose from an amazing range of produce, Dartmouth Farmers Market, Market Square, Dartmouth, 9.00am.
BRIDGE JAZZ CLUB 03 Jun - Pete Canter & Friends Jam Session £6 or £4 jammers, Pete Canter, Exeter Phoenix, Exeter, 8.30pm.
The Full Monty at Princess Theatre Torquay
PETE CANTER 07 Jun - Saxophonist/composer Pete Canter plays new music for solo sax & soundscape, Pete Canter, Exeter Respect Festival, Exeter, 11.15am.
PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB 07 Jun - John Burgess/Roy Williams Quintet with the Craig Milverton Trio, Plymouth Jazz Club, The Royal British Legion Club, Plymouth, 7.30pm.
SWING/BUSKING BAND THE BUSQUITOS IN CONCERT 12 Jun - Crazy swing, gypsy band play roaring songs of the 1920's in style of their own, Hazelwood House, Nr Loddiswell, Kingsbridge, 8.00pm.
PETE CANTER TRIO 26 Jun - Fine saxophonist and trio in the conservatory, Pete Canter, City Gate Hotel, Exeter, 7.30pm.
ROCK TOYAH - UP CLOSE & PERSONAL 05 Jun - Enjoy pop icon Toyah, performing an intimate acoustic show, Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, 8.00pm.
Markets FARMERS & COUNTRY NEWTON ABBOT FARMERS' AND PRODUCE MARKET Tues - Located in the pedestrianized area in the heart of the town, Newton Abbot Farmers Market, Courtenay Street, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.
KINGSBRIDGE COUNTRY MARKET
THE MOODY BLUES 06 Jun - Saturday evening performance by English prog-rock & symphonic rock band, Plymouth Pavilions, Millbay Road, Plymouth.
Weds - Weekly morning market, Kingsbridge Country Market, Town Hall Foyer, Kingsbridge, 8.00am.
TEIGNMOUTH FARMERS/LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET 27 Jun - Monthly farmers' market held on the last Saturday, Teignmouth Farmers/ Local Produce Market, The Triangle, Teignmouth, 10.00am.
MARKET DAYS BRIXHAM ART & CRAFT MARKET Sat - Showcasing some of the best art and craft in the Southwest, Brixham Art & Craft Market, The Old Market House, Brixham.
TOTNES GOOD FOOD SUNDAY MARKET 21 Jun - Variety of stalls offer good food from Devon & around the world. Held 3rd Sun, Totnes Good Food Sunday Market, Civic Square, Totnes, 10.00am. CONTINUED OVERLEAF
1913-2015
Over One Hundred Years of Service in South Devon DAY TRIPS GT CHALFIELD MANOR & THE COURTS GARDEN
Fri 19 Jun - £35 inc (Nat Trust £25)
WEYMOUTH & CHESIL BEACH - Tues 30 June - £21 RNAS YEOVILTON AIRDAY - Sat 11 Jul - £39 inc (u16 £20)
SHORT BREAKS
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Fri 21st-Sun 23rd Aug - 4* Central London Hotel £230 per person based on 2 sharing
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OXFORD & THE COTSWOLDS
Fri 4th-Mon 7th Sept - £255 per person based on 2 sharing
6 Daneheath Business Park, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6TL 01626 833038 | bookings@greycars.com | www.greycars.com
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Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, TQ12 6NQ MORE THAN 50 LOCAL REAL ALES AND CIDERS e yn
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at SealeHa hs na
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Fri: 70s and 80s party night Sat: Very best in local bands Sun: Acoustic Chill-out
31 JULY - 2 AUGUST 2015 Shaldon Open Air Theatre
Heritage A STITCH IN TIME
Edinburgh Festival Previews
Big name acts
Outrageous Cabaret
Adult and kids workshops
Big name acts
8 - 12 July 2015
Telephone: 01803 325 825 www.discoversealehayne.org
27 Jun - Show your support for Plymouth Armed Forces Day on the Hoe, Armed Forces Day (Plymouth), The Hoe, Plymouth, 9.30am.
TEIGNMOUTH & SHALDON REMEMBER 1915
AN EVENING WITH STRICTLY STARS ANTON & ERIN
Until 30 Jun - The War Explodes, but where were the shells? Teign Heritage Centre, 29 French Street, Teignmouth, 10.00am.
02 Jun - New Research on the Vikings in the West Country, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 6.30pm.
A HISTORY OF DARTMOOR FARMING 04 Jun - Illustrated talk by Dartmoor farmer and historian, Colin Pearse, Devon Rural Archive, Shilstone, Modbury, 7.00pm.
Your valued images recovered and reprinted. Copied from photoprint, glass plate, negative or slide. Victorian, WW1, WW2 and into 1950’s. www.falconfoto.co.uk
LOCAL HISTORY TOUR 06 Jun - Exeter and Devon from prehistory to the present, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 11.00am.
ARMED FORCES DAY 2015 20 Jun - A special Saturday event, Armed Forces Day (Torbay), Babbacombe Downs, Babbacombe.
MUSEUM FULL SITE TOUR JUNE 20 2015 20 Jun - Join a 60-minute tour of RAMM’s galleries, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 11.00am.
Rally & Motor FATHER'S DAY VINTAGE CAR RALLY 21 Jun - Admire the classic & treasured vehicles: a perfect way to spend Father's Day, Woodlands Leisure Park, Address, Blackawton.
Shows TOWN CENTRE CLASSIC CAR MOTOR SHOW 06 Jun - Shopping and nostalgia! Newton Abbot Town Council, Town Centre, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.
GORILLA GARDENING
Brixham, Devon 01803 851195 falcon.display@outlook.com
www.falconfoto.co.uk
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25 Jun - Biting, satirical, political & very funny verse delivered with rapid-fire, The Watermark, Erme Court, Ivybridge, 8.00pm.
Until 30 Jun - An exhibition of local needlework, embroidery & all things sewing, Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum, 108 Fore Street, Kingsbridge, 10.30am.
FRIENDLY TRADERS, RAIDERS OR SETTLERS?
Dame Hannah Rogers Trust a registered charity no. 1148882
JOHN COOPER CLARKE
13 Jun - A joyous adventure into a hidden world of gardens. Join Ellie as she tracks down, Peninsula Arts, The House, Plymouth, 2.00pm.
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
ARMED FORCES DAY 2015
28 Jun - TLH Leisure Resort, Victoria Hotel, Torquay, 7.30pm.
Theatre MUSICALS THE MUSIC OF THE NIGHT Until 23 Jul - Enjoy a fun evening which will take you on an inspirational musical journey, Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, 8.15pm.
PLAYS TRIBES & TRIBULATIONS 01 Jun - Orginal Play by, Substance & Shadow Theatre, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter, 7.00pm.
THE CARPENTERS STORY 04 Jun - Thursday tribute show: The Carpenters Story, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
THE BILLY FURY STORY 05 Jun - Halfway to Paradise - The Billy Fury Story, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
DIRTY DANCING TRIBUTE 06 Jun - An evening of Dirty Dancing: Dirty Dancing Tribute, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM OUTDOOR THEATRE 11 Jun - Chapterhouse Theatre Company present A Midsummer Night's Dream in the gardens, Moorland Garden Hotel, Yelverton, Yelverton, 7.30pm.
THE JUDY GARLAND STORY 12 Jun to 13 Jun - The Life and Music of a Legend, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
LEE 'MEMPHIS' DING 19 Jun - Friday performance by British Elvis Presley impersonator Lee 'Memphis' King, Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay.
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A point of view!
Nelson’s Column
by JOHN FISHER
feral or otherwise. Why? Because he could. Most wild creatures in the UK are protected by law, even homeless, wandering Devon peacocks who peck and scratch at the paintwork of expensive motor cars. So don’t try this at home but that said, the following medieval recipe (which was a nightmare for our Spellchecker) might just come in handy one day, especially if you park a car near Clyst St. Mary.
PECOK ROSTED (Vegetarians and peacock lovers, look away now)
Firste ketch a pecok THE VANITY OF DEVON’S FER AL PEACOCKS has been causing problems for car owners in the vicinity of Bishop’s Court Palace, Clyst St. Mary, one of the county’s most popular wedding venues. According to some of the near neighbours of the ancient house and its 60-acre estate, the birds have been attacking parked cars as they spotted their own reflections in the
Cheese Day shock revelation WOULD THE FRENCH MIND if all patriotic Devonians turned their noses up at French cheese for just one day this year as we mark the 600th anniversary of the Battle of Agincourt on 25th October, St. Crispin’s Day? That’s settled then. Hundreds of our Devon ancestors fought the French at Agincourt and there’s nothing wrong with fromage of course, but you can have too much of a good thing. As French President Charles de Gaulle himself once fa mously revealed about his nation: "Comment voulezvous gouverner un pays qui a Photo: Egon Steiner
paintwork. A spokesperson for Bishop’s Court told the Guardian newspaper: “They absolutely do not originate with us. They are just wild. I don’t know where they come from. It is like asking where the robins or the foxes come from.” King Edward I (aka Longshanks) and his court spent Christmas at the house in 1285. That he ate swans is a matter of record (See: The Feast of the Swans). It is more than likely that he also enjoyed the occasional peacock,
deux cent quarante-six variétés de fromage?" ("How can you govern a country which has two hundred and forty-six varieties of cheese?") So. No lasting damage done there then. We in Devon have just 12 cheese makers.
Devon’s favourite number? SEVEN, probably, because seven also happens to be the world’s favourite number. Who says? Thirty thousand people polled by Alex Bellos for his new book Alex Through the Looking Glass. Certainly the number seven crops up in many Devon place names and the superstitions attached to that number seem to be international. We in turn polled the saloon bar of The Weary Badger - so that you wouldn’t have to - and asked them what “seven” meant for them. Their responses, in no order whatsoever were:
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Take a Pecok, breke his necke, and kutte his throte, And fle him, the skyn and the ffethurs togidre, and the hede still to the skyn of the nekke, And kepe the skyn and the ffethurs hole togiders; drawe him as an hen, And kepe the bone to the necke hole, and roste him, And set the bone of the necke above the broche, as he was wonte to sitte a-lyve, And abowe the legges to the body, as he was wonte to sitte a-lyve; And whan he is rosted ynowe, take him of, And lete him kele; And then wynde the skyn wit the fethurs and the taile abought the body, And serve him forthe as he were a-live; or elle pull him dry, And roste him, and serve him as thou doest a henne.
Seven stars, seven seas, seven deadly sins, seven virtues, seven days of the week, seven samurai, seven wonders, seven dwarfs, seven brides, seven brothers, seven-year itch, seven ages of man, seven pillars of wisdom, seven for the seven stars in the sky, seventh son of a seventh son, seven colours of the rainbow, seven days of creation, seven years of plenty, seven years of famine, seven loaves, seven spots (on a seven-spot ladybird) and finally, seven is the sum of any two opposite sides on a die. For the record, Devon’s most un-favourite number is shown to be 110. Go figure.
JOHN FISHER
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Devon's Air Ambulance Have you spotted a red and blue helicopter over the skies of Devon? Did you know that, in fact, there are two and they are Devon’s Air Ambulances?
Life Matters Balancing the stresses of work and living with health and relaxation
During 2014 Devon Air Ambulance assisted 843 patients. Here are a few of their statistics: • We were busiest between 2pm and 3pm and the busiest day of the week was Sunday • 36% of our patients were female and 64% male • 94 of our patients were children under 18 • 48% of our incidents were medical related • 51% of our incidents were trauma related (ie accidental) • Cardiac related incidents are the most frequent reason we are called to assist a patient suffering from a medical problem • Road Traffic Collisions are the most frequent reason we are called to assist a patient suffering from trauma
Crew of the Devon Air Ambulance with Harry and his mother Emma
D
eployed just like any other ambulance, the helicopters are there to relieve injury and illness in and around the county of Devon. This means they are there for everyone; young or old, resident or holidaymaker. In such a rural county as Devon it’s reassuring to know that should you need essential medical treatment quickly, there is high speed help at hand. Currently the service costs £4.5 million to keep airborne up to 14 hours a day (daylight allowing). However, at the end of 2016 the Charity is planning to extend flying hours until midnight. This means that it will be able to help even more patients in need. It also means that annual operating costs will rise to £5.5 million. During the winter months flying hours currently stop around 4.30pm due to fading light and during the summer we continue to fly until 9pm. With the research undertaken we know that
patients don’t stop getting ill or having accidents just because it’s dark. In fact, we have case studies to prove the opposite.
Currently the service costs £4.5 million to keep airborne up to 14 hours a day One such patient is four year old Harry Edwards-Brady who lives on a farm in Hatherleigh. We were recently delighted to be able to meet a fit and healthy Harry when he visited our airbase with his mum, Emma. It was very different when he needed urgent medical assistance in May 2013. Harry had been unwell and was particularly quiet and sleepy. Emma kept him off pre-school but, early that evening, little Harry suffered a
• Equestrian incidents are the most common sport/leisure activity we are called out to • In trauma the most common part of the body to be injured is leg, followed closely by head • 26% of our patient s were taken to a specialist treatment centre, by-passing the closest hospital • 11% of the incident locations we attended were inaccessible by road
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Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
convulsion and the emergency services were called. Emma said “It was so frightening to see. I thought Harry was just sleeping on the sofa but then he started fitting and his eyes rolled to the back of his head; it was horrible. Even when the fit stopped, Harry just went limp in my arms and was unconscious; he didn’t respond to anything.” The fire service first responders were the first to arrive, just ahead of Devon Air Ambulance paramedics. Emma continued, “I was so reassured knowing that help was on its way - and I think everyone breathed a massive sign of relief when the aircrew arrived. I was still so worried about Harry, but at least I was able to go in the helicopter with him to hospital and the paramedics explained everything all the way to Exeter. He had all sorts of tests and was kept in overnight. Thankfully, even just the next day, Harry was pretty much back to his old self. But I’ll never forget how grateful we were that the Air Ambulance came to our rescue.” Just two weeks later, Harry proved just how well he had recovered as he rode two ponies in the annual Devon County Show and, just five months later, because the youngest rider ever to take part in the Horse of the Year Show, still only 3 years old! Why not check out our website at www. daat.org for lots of other information about the Charity and the service? There are many different ways to help keep the helicopters flying; including volunteering at events or in our shops, servicing our collection boxes or spreading our message at organised talks. Visit our website and find out how YOU can make a difference. www.daat.org info@daat.org 01392 466666 5 Sandpiper Court, Harrington Lane, Exeter, Devon, EX4 8NS Registered Charity No: 1077998
The 5,000th registered organisation - a Plymouth based musical collaboration comprising of Joanna Cooke and Nathan Austin. Also pictured, Devonshire magazine apprentice Freddie Shaw (right), who can be seen presenting the certificate.
Great public resource - continued rapid growth The EventHub continues to grow and benefit thousands of organisations, enabling them to promote their events by providing a dedicated What’s On website for public who really do want to know what’s on (over 860,000 views in 2014 - audited). The EventHub heralds a new way for organisations to make their events visible and to reach a massive audience. In May, the 5000th organisation was registered, with registrations growing daily. June also sees major new functions including a redesigned interface and menu structure with tabs for Courses/Rooms, Places & Walks,
eventhub eastdevonhub
Attractions & things to do. You’ll also be able to add an image for each of your events (additional to your existing organisation’s logo). All this will appear in mid June, we’ll keep you posted.
broadcasting your events to a massive audience + sharing data, both in paper and digital formats
dartmoorhub
southdevonhub
middevonhub
Coming soon...
livemusicdevon westdevonhub
northdevonhub
westdevonhub
schema.org event data structure compatibility coming shortly What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
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D
artmouth is a lively bustling port where locals mix happily with visitors at the seemingly constant music and food festivals, farmer and artisan markets, regattas and celebrations of all kinds throughout the year - there is always masses going on. However it's also a place full of historical secrets so keep your eyes sharply peeled for quirky details, wooden and stone carvings,  'wonkiness' of roof line and overhanging black and white houses - clues for things that happened long ago.
At the heart of Dartmouth's history and heritage is the sea. This secure and sheltered deep water port has offered trade and shipbuilding opportunities from the Norman Conquest onwards and the fine half-timbered merchants’ houses, cobbled streets and quaysides reflect centuries of voyages for exploration adventure and commerce, far beyond British waters. In effect the harbour created the town and Dartmouth men grew up with a tradition of seafaring and hard dealing with the
outside world. Some became navy tars, some merchants, some privateers, and some perhaps all three as the occasion demanded. Flexibility ensured survival: during the civil war the town was Parliamentarian, then occupied by Royalists before a long battle for freedom - newspapers in 1906 reported a whole cannonball had been found lodged in an old plaster ceiling from those times! However Charles II visited later on, so the Crown must have kept some friends in Dartmouth.
tically histor ic quayside t own n's nau o v e D
DARTMOUTH by clare mccomb
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Devonshire magazine visits Dartmouth
Most things connect to the water. From the very beginning Dartmouth has been an assembly point for ships gathering together before heading off for a naval battle, to cross uncharted oceans or invade the coast of Normandy in 1944. Boat building, rigging and mending are still carried on nearby at Old Mill Creek where traditional shipwright's skills are thriving. Huge cruise ships appear from time to time while the higher and lower ferries carry vehicles and passengers back and forth constantly - a feature of the town since medieval times: the first ferry records date to 1365 and modern passengers may not be aware that they are travelling on the South West Coastal Path as they cross and return, to and from Kingswear.
The Dart’s modern marinas bristle with craft of all ages and types; the Royal Dart Yacht Club, on the Kingswear side of the river, is a very friendly place which offers something for every kind of sailor: family-based courses for the youngsters, the “Ladies Afloat” group, and regular racing for almost every size of sailboat culminating in the world famous regatta every summer. Visit: w w w.t hev iew fromt heda r t mouthoffice.com to enjoy a continuous photographic record of everything happening on the river for the past 7 years: you will be astonished at the sheer variety of images, all taken from Andy Kyle’s garden, day by day.
Right - looking out from the fortification at Bayard's Cove which is a single storey Tudor artillery fort, built circa 1534. It was built to ensure that if invading ships made it past the Kingswear and Dartmouth castles, then there was further protection for this quay.
Dartmouth - the mouth of the Dart was certainly important in days gone by, a safe harbour from the rough seas, deep and navigable, you can see why it has occupied an important part of England's naval history for many centuries. In 1147 Dartmouth was chosen as the assembly point for 164 ships departing on the Second Crusade. Later on, it was also the starting point for Richard I on the Third Crusade which comprised of 37 ships in 1190. The earliest settlement in the Domesday Book was Townstal, high above the river bank. Later two fishing hamlets sprang up.
Dartmouth's old market building is just up the road from the quay. It's great to see that it's still a busy place today.
Fresh fish - you wouldn't expect anything less really. One of the many businesses that surround the old market building
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A view across the quay, with Kingswear in the distance. Dartmouth has great character and interest for the visitor.
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The Butterwalk, not to be missed on your visit, it's just off the quay and is a fine example of 17th century half timbered architecture. Within the Butterwalk, you'll also find the museum and a great tea room where you can enjoy the ceiling over a cup of tea and scones.
S
tar of the show is the fa mou s ha l f-t i mbered Butterwalk whose official Grade 1 listing describes it as “one of the finest rows of merchants’ houses dating from the first half of the 17th Century anywhere in England” ; the actual arcade was
The Cherub Inn, one of Dartmouth's historic old inns 18
designed to provide shelter for market stalls, presumably selling butter and cheese; such structures were typical in market towns of the period and this one, with its granite columns supporting richly carved woodwork above, makes for a “stop-you-in-your-tracks”
sort of experience. The row was badly bomb damaged during WW2 but thankfully restored in the 1950s despite loud voices calling for speedy demolition. Inside is a small and remarkable museum, run by very friendly staff and volunteers, where you
The tearoom within the Butterwalk - enjoy a most refined, English tea!
Devonshire magazine visits Dartmouth
can learn about gurgle jugs from a long-defunct local pottery, use a microscope, and open many "drawers" to find curious things hidden inside. Watch out for the ghosts!
Dartmouth's full of quirky detail
The
Britannia Royal Naval College
Above the town the unmistakable landmark of the Britannia Royal Naval College stands proudly; naval officers have been trained in Dartmouth since 1863, including our own Princes Philip, Andrew and William. Before 1905, when the college was built, recruits lived in two wooden hulks moored on the river. This iconic building has survived many changes, including being bombed in the Second World War. Two hour guided tours of what is very much a working college are available once or twice a week in the season, with tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre. The views are stunning and the tours almost universally praised for
being a fascinating one-off experience.
Another well-loved excursion is a ferry ride to the National Trust
The
property at Greenway, Agatha Christie’s holiday home. After disembarking you have to climb a woodland hill path: less mobile visitors can take the Quay Car shuttle (which cannot transport children under 12). A vintage bus also brings visitors from around Torbay in the season, and the Steam Train runs from Paignton and Kingswear to
Greenway Halt from which a 30 minute walk leads to the house. To bring your own car you need to book a parking space on line: (ring 01803 842382 to check if making a last minute decision.) Whichever way you get there this beautiful Georgian house and garden makes for a memorable day out. Many people return year after year.
JESSE CEILING
This unique 'Tree' depicting the genealogy of Jesus, based on the prophecy of Isaiah, is believed to be the only ceiling of its kind in the World The beautiful ceiling in the Butterwalk, dating from the building’s inception in 1635, is reputedly unique plasterwork. It shows a “tree of Jesse”, in effect Jesus’ family tree, demonstrating how he was related through 12 Kings and 14 Patriarchs, to Jesse, father of King David, of Goliath fame. The image refers to an Old Testament prophesy (Isaiah II: I –I0) which foretold that the coming Messiah would be of that Royal lineage. The Butter walk ceiling is the jewel in the crown of Dartmouth museum. It marks
a high point in this traditional Devon decoration which was fashionable from the 16th
century onwards, demonstrating the wealth of merchant-builders who commissioned luxurious
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ornamental plaster patterns, created by skilled craftsmen. After a bombing raid in World War 2, the ceiling, with its traditional vine like structure, was nearly lost to the town, having survived through the centuries. Thankfully it was carefully packed away and has been painstakingly restored, although two of the figures are missing. As is common with Jesse trees, Joseph is absent from the ceiling although Mary is there. Can you guess who the other figures represent?
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The view across to Kingswear from the historic Bayards Cove quay
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artmouth has unique fortifications which have g ua rded t he narrow entrance to the River Dart for hundreds of years. Some say the castle defences were started in 1388 by Chaucer's Shipman' from
Lovely characterful streets everywhere in Dartmouth, it's a charming place 20
the Canterbury Tales, supposedly the feisty John Hawley, 14 times mayor of the town and elected MP on 4 occasions: Chaucer certainly visited Dartmouth and Hawley was a great character, so that may well be right.
It's a fair climb to the top of the battlements but the views on a bright day are superb. Long ago they used to stretch a chain across the river to deter marauding ships where now the hustle and bustle of peacetime commercial or naval
Great architectural detail can be seen throughout the town, much wealth has passed into this town through the centuries Devonshire magazine visits Dartmouth
craft and elegant yachts, strings of canoeists and the criss-crossing ferries go about their business. There is always something moving on the water and it is fascinating to watch.
The bar inside the ancient Cherub Inn. This building was first recorded in 1380 and has been a house, shop and is now an Inn
Above - the fort at Bayard's Cove. Dartmouth has row upon row of houses, perched up the side of the hill. There are many holiday homes, affording great views out across the busy estuary. Left - Dartmouth has a really great atmosphere, very cosmopolitan, locals mix easily with visitors. Here's a busy scene, with people enjoying a drink by the Baryard's Cove Inn. the temptation of busy taverns and boatyards close to the waterside - you can understand why they might have changed their minds about voyaging to America while anchored in such a beautiful spot! The famous 14th century inn at Bayard’s Cove is known for its friendliness to both dogs and humans, and excellent food. Once again, keep an eye
Pottering about, great fun!
Further up from Dartmouth, take a river cruise
In the summer you can take a boat trip back to town or wander by the cobbled quayside of Bayard's Cove to explore a smaller fort near where the Pilgrim Fathers stopped off to mend a leak in one of their ships in 1620; tradition has it that a lockdown was enforced to prevent anyone slipping away into
out for the ghosts, including an Elizabethan man who smokes a pipe. Sailors needed taverns so in Dartmouth there are many to choose from. The Cherub Inn claims to be the oldest building in the port, with records dating from 1380. Once a house, then a shop it is now a pub restaurant
boasting yet another ghost and her cat. The Seven Stars was described as the oldest pub in the town and the ghost breaks glasses at night; however the most regal phantom is said to be William of Orange's wife, Queen Mary to be, whose carriage wheels and horses’ hooves can be heard some nights from the Royal Castle Hotel; true or not these traditional hauntings offer a
owners at the time. People often say that that they always find something new even after years of visiting, which is why they keep coming back. Whether you like sailing or wandering medieval streets, sampling great food, ghost hunting, culture-vulturing or just sitting soaking up the sun, Dartmouth is
Great to see fishermen still plying their trade from Dartmouth good excuse for a spooky bar crawl to test the local ales. Above all, watch for original details as you walk. Dartmouth grew rich through trade and many of the merchants’ and sea captains’ houses remain, with carvings and architectural details displaying the wealth and individuality of their
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a wonderful place to visit or to stay all the year round. Many people come for the day and return to live by the banks of this vibrant river in a community with a lively heart and a wonderful tradition of maritime hospitality.
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The
newcomen steam engine
The Amazing Newcomen Steam Engine at the Tourist Information Office In 1921 a memorial was erected in Dartmouth to commemorate the town’s most famous son: local ironmonger, Thomas Newcomen (1663-1729) was the first to devise a method to pump water by the use of steam at a time when horses, or wind and water wheels, were the only sources of power. He has been
described as the “modern world’s first great mechanical engineer.” From the initial “Fire Engine” in 1712, his invention saved many a mine from flooding and soon provided power for growing industries across Europe, Russia and the Americas. The machines could work 24 hours a day,
pumping 120 gallons of water a minute, which meant much deeper mines could be dug and drained: as many were coal mines, the heavy consumption of fuel was no problem. Newcomen’s i nvent ion wa s an “atmospheric engine”, being driven by pressure of air: the steam was only used as an agent for producing a vacuum. Dartmouth’s Tourist Information Office’s amazing exhibit is allegedly the oldest preserved Steam Engine in the world, dating from around 1720. Newcomen’s machine looked something like a gigantic balance: at one end hung a heavy pump rod and at the other was the piston, which worked vertically in a cylinder full of steam. Cold water injected into the cylinder condensed the steam to form the necessary vacuum. Under the cylinder was a boiler where the various cocks were originally opened and closed by a boy, although an early modification soon enabled the engines to become self-acting. The engine was cheap to install and run, producing up to 5 ½ horse power which was better than any of the alternative power sources available at the time.
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Newcomen himself was born and baptised in Dartmouth. He does not seem to have made a great fortune from his invention, having
Devonshire magazine visits Dartmouth
Full scale working replica at the Black Country Musuem, Dudley been forced to go into business with Thomas Savery, who had existing patents for a similar but less efficient mechanism. However, such was his eventual fame that when subscriptions were sought for his memorial, one of the first to come forward was the then Prince of Wales. The fire grate where he first saw steam rising from a kettle, leading him to conceive the notion of using it to work a piston to create the “engine that changed the world”, was salvaged when his house was demolished in Victorian times. Alas, its whereabouts are now unknown.
So much for everyone in Dartmouth!
The steam train chuffing out of Kingswear
Paddle steamers chugging along the Dart estuary
Beautiful parks
Greenway - once home of Agatha Christie
Visiting Dartmouth? - help is at hand at Dartmouth's visitor information centre
DARTMOUTH TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE for further information please call : 01803 834224
or email: admin@discoverdartmouth.com What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
www.dartmoutheverytime.co.uk www.facebook.com/dartmoutheverytime twitter.com/DartEveryTime
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We can help you unlock your property’s full potential... DARTMOUTH whether holiday or residential! n Devo
's naut
ica lly histor ic quayside
town
by clare mccomb
Dartmouth Green Partnerships 2015 Royal Horticultural Society gold award winning Dartmouth Green Partnerships has an exciting summer ahead, planting displays to make Dartmouth look beautiful for local people and visitors. Our watchwords are horticultural excellence, community involvement and environmental sustainability.
• Holiday Cottage Rentals • Residential Lettings • Global marketing and advertising • Locally Dartmouth owned and based Visit• usSuperb for breakfast, and Onlinelunch Landlords/Owners reporting system our cream • scrumptious Over 20 years localteas knowledge and experience
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www.castletearoomsdartmouth.co.uk
Take the Castle Ferry or follow signs on foot or by car to Dartmouth Castle. We are licensed. Open Daily 24
Devonshire magazine visits Dartmouth
We are a group of volunteers funded through council and other grants and by sponsors, who create floral displays in baskets, tubs containers and even unwanted boats wherever we can in Dartmouth – not just for the summer, but all year round.
A most interesting cafe here - Alf Resco - many businesses in Dartmouth do go the extra mile to bring you added value. Great ambiance and visually stimulating - this creative input is vital for our small businesses.
Flags, flags and more flags - certainly makes a cheerful display. Dartmouth has streets worth exploring with great shops, galleries and eateries.
Dartmouth Chandlery 01803 839292 www.chandlery.co.uk
Three Crowns Inn High Street, Chagford, Devon TQ13 8AJ 01647 433444 www.threecrowns-chagford.co.uk What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
The Dolphin's another one of Dartmouth's lovely pubs, Also, it's just off a main shopping drag, so if either partner (I'm not going to say husband!) wants to relax with a drink, whilst the other partner is shopping, then all to the good. The sign in the photo says it all. 25
Forthcoming Exhibitions June & July 2015
June Arnold PS SWAc - 'Asleep On The Steps, Varanasi' North Street Gallery
GALLERIES
Dorothy Hanna - 'The Waning' - Artmill Gallery
REMBRANDT REVEALED Until 05 Jun - See Buckland's Rembrandt in a new exhibition, Buckland Abbey, Address, Yelverton, 11.00am.
SPRING EXHIBITION FEATURING 12 ARTISTS Until 11 Jun - Spring show part of Dartmouth Galleries Week. Art, Sculpture, Textiles, Glass, Baxters Gallery, 12 Foss Street, Dartmouth, 6.00pm.
ART EXHIBITION BY THE NEWTON ABBOT ART GROUP Until 11 Jun - Paintings, Paintings, Paintings! Newton Abbot Art Group, TAAG, Teignmouth, 10.00am.
CONTEMPORARY CLASSICS Until 13 Jun - A Mixed Exhibition that promises to be Classy, Contemporary and Classic, Artizan Gallery Cafe Venue, 7 Lucius Street, Torquay, 10.30am.
EXHIBITIONS Open Tues - Sat 10.30 - 5.00
Sun 2.00 - 4.30
www.brookgallery.co.uk
01395 443003
EXHIBITIONS Bruce Mclean 22 May to 28 Jun - Original Prints by acclaimed artist Bruce McLean. All Things Good 03 Jul to 03 Sep - An Exhibition of work by Mychael PRE Barrett & Trevor Price RE.
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Anita Klein - 'Choosing Another Chocolate' - Marine House at Beer
COLOURS AND CONTRAST DOMINIC HILLS EXHIBITION
EXETER’S FINE ART COLLECTION
Until 14 Jun - An Exhibition of Oil Paintings from his studio at Stone Farm, Stone Lane Gardens, Chagford, 2.00pm.
Until 04 Jul - An exhibition of paintings by Francis Hayman, an important Devon born artist, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10.00am.
WALKING THE HEDGEROWS Until 20 Jun - New work from artist Charlotte Price, Artmill Gallery, 83 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth, 9.00am.
EXHIBITION: JUST ADD WATER Until 21 Jun - Innovative and creative works based around the theme of water and swimming, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Howton Lane, Newton Abbot, 10.00am.
EXETER CANAL AND THE EXE Until 02 Aug - Views of Exeter Canal and the Exe, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10.00am.
THE WORLD OF HORSES AND PORTRAITURE 02 Jun to 07 Jun - An exhibition of portraits and equine studies, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
North Street Gallery Exhibitions India - 01 to 27 Jun
June Arnold PS SWAc.
South West Sculptors Association - 13 Jul to 25 Jul. Come visit us in the centre of bustling Ashburton
22 North Street, Ashburton, TQ13 7QD 01364 653334 www.22northstreet.com e. emily@22northstreet.com
02 Jun to 19 Jul - Somerset artist Moish Sokal's summer show of new work from three continents, East Lambrook Manor Gardens, East Lambrook, South Petherton, 10.00am.
BECKY BETTESWORTH SIGNING 03 Jun - Have your posters signed personally by Becky Bettesworth. Free nibbles! 2-8pm, GalleryFab/ Frames & Boxes, 10 Bank Street, Newton Abbot, 2.00pm.
REMBRANDT REVEALED 06 Jun to 04 Sep - See Buckland's Rembrandt in the new exhibition, Buckland Abbey, Address, Yelverton, 11.00am.
Frames and Boxes, 01626 335965 10 Bank Street, Newton Abbot TQ12 2JW www.galleryfab.co.uk
NEW TO THE GALLERY Amazing originals from leading S.W. artist DAVID CHAMBERS.
Paintings, prints, gift items and creative homeware to inspire and delight.
Becky Bettesworth Signing
Come and visit us at the Barbican, Plymouth.
03 Jun - We will be teaming up with Becky for a signing event from 2-8pm. Any posters bought at the event will be signed personally by Becky, whilst you enjoy some free drinks and nibbles (and hopefully some summer sun)!
www.kayagallery.co.uk 01752 267474 53 Southside Street, The Barbican, Plymouth
Go to facebook.com/galleryfab for more!
A must see selection!
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
Robert Mountjoy - 'Three Apples on a Cardboard Box' - SWAc
A MAN AT WORK - JOHN DONALDSON 06 Jul to 04 Aug - Exhibition of original paintings accompanied by a limited edition publication, Mayne Gallery, 14 Fore Street, Kingsbridge, 9.30am.
Mia Tarney - 'Peony Gardenia' - Frames and Boxes
WATER WATER EVERYWHERE!
THE ART OF CONVERSATION THE SOUTH WEST ACADEMY ACADEMICIANS SHOW 2015 08 Jun to 13 Jun - The South West Academy of Fine & Applied Arts Academicians annual exhibition, South West Academy of Fine & Applied Arts, Exeter Castle, Exeter.
09 Jun to 14 Jun - An exhibition of paintings, and printmaking by George and Hilary Fox, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
BENEDICT RUBBRA 'MEET THE ARTIST' 10 Jun - Benedict Rubbra, Meet the artist gallery conversation, The Art Room, Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art gallery, Exeter, 1.00pm.
16 Jun to 24 Jun - An exhibition of paintings and printmaking by members of the 21 Group, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
ELEMENTAL LANDSCAPES 26 Jun to 05 Jul - Paintings by Anne Scarratt, Margaret Deans and Christine Linfield, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
3 MEDIA MIX 07 Jul to 15 Jul - An exhibition of oil paintings, textiles, printmaking and handmade books, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
PRESS GANG PRINTMAKERS 17 Jul to 26 Jul - Annual exhibition of printmaking, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.
whitespaceart In our Gallery James Tatum Solo Exhibition 13 to 27 June James’ first one man show at the gallery. New paintings inspired by the Devon landscape.
72 Fore Street, Totnes TQ9 5RU 01803 864088 10am-5pm Tues to Sat www.whitespaceart.com
Yvonne Coomber - 'You Bring Joy to my Heart' - The Brownston Gallery
Teresa Pemberton - 'Nasturtiums by the Sea' - The Bowie Gallery
83 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth PL3 4JN Tel: 01752 255020
thebrownstongaller y thebrownstongaller y EXHIBITION Award Winning Fine Art Trade Guild Commended Picture Framers
19 Jun to 04 Jul Influential landscape painter.
Summer Exhibition
Jul and Aug Our gallery artists including Yvonne Coomber, Charles Jamieson and Andrew Miller.
We now have a larger range of styles and materials than ever whilst still priding themselves on design and technical knowledge. FAB love a challenge and will frame almost anything! 10 Bank St, Newton Abbot, TQ12 2JW 01626 335965 galleryfab.co.uk Mon to Fri 9am-5.30pm Sat 9am-4.30pm
GALLERY & FRAMING CENTRE
Derek Holland
Please call for full catalogue. art art
p r i nts p r i nts
s cu l p tu re s cu l p tu 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
EXHIBITION Anita Klein Solo Exhibition
EXHIBITIONS Walking the Hedgerows - Until 20 Jun Great new work by Charlotte Price.
06 Jun to 14 Jun - A major exhibition of over 40 original paintings and prints.
The Plymouth Society of Artist Members’ Show - 27 Jun to 25 Jul
www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk 01297 625257
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
An innovative and exciting group formed in 1944.
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ForthcomingExhibitions June & July 2015
David Chambers - 'The Victorian River Exe' - Kaya Gallery
NOSTALGIC PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION 17 Jul to 03 Aug - Sarah Baker is running a personal photography exhibition, Real Ideas Organisation, Devonport Guildhall, Plymouth, 10.00am.
TORBAY GUILD OF ARTISTS ANNUAL EXHIBITION 18 Jul to 02 Aug - Annual exhibition of members recent paintings, together with cards, Torbay Guild of Artists, Furrough Cross Church Hall, Torquay.
the bowie gallery contemporary contemporary art art
TERESA PEMBERTON 19 June to 04 July
01803 863054
TOTNES (Mon-Sat 10-4) www.thebowiegallery.co.uk
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Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
“Il Regalo Della Primavera, The Spring Gift” - acrylic on canvas - 61x122cm
Anita Klein
Happiness in Fleeting Moments A major exhibition of over 40 original paintings and prints Saturday June 6 to Sunday June 14, open every day Marine House at Beer, Fore Street, Beer, EX12 3EF
‘A Cup of Tea’ - acrylic on paper - 25.5x15cm
Anita Klein’s paintings and prints are some of the most widely and warmly recognised works from a current British artist. She combines the finest of compositional and painting skills to record simple moments of pleasure be it with her
family or near her Italian studio. With the movement of generations this show also introduces the latest family member, her first grandchild Betty. Anita’s works give constant pleasure to her many collectors. Do come and enjoy this special show.
Contact the galler y for a colour catalogue and invitation to the launch day from 11.00am on Saturday 6 June. The paintings can be viewed on our web site and are available for sale.
‘Peeling an Orange’ - linocut - 30x30
01297 625257
‘L’Anello, The Ring’ - acrylic on canvas - 66x102cm
01297 625257
www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
info@marinehouseatbeer.co.uk
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Victoria Sewart
Contemporary Jewellery Gallery
Ringing the Changes Exhibition 2015 An exhibition of distinctly modern rings and wedding jewellery. Complimenting both the contemporary and traditional.
On now until July.
Gift Ideas
from South Devon
Gifts can be tricky to find, but we are lucky to have a great range of independent businesses who strive to source unique and stylish items you won't find anywhere else! “rare, self indulgent” “unique collections”
“innovative designs”
“luxurious wearable pieces”
Greater still, 'lunch' with a friend to discuss your purchases. South & West Devon abounds with great places to enjoy lunch or just a coffee and cake!
For more Jewellery, Online Shop and Jewellery Workshops (including ʻMaking Your Own Wedding Rings’) visit us at:
victoriasewart.com 01752 220011 39 Southside Street, The Barbican, Plymouth
victoria sewart
glow Rockinghorse C n i g n o. Ri
Ringinglow Rockinghorse Co.
0800 074 6104
www.dapplegrey.co.uk Sales, Restoration & Kit Rocking Horses. Come and see the rocking horses in our Plymouth Showroom.
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Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
But here’s the thing... Behaviour, the West Country can forget reaching for a bigger rolled-up newspaper.
Size matters It’s everything to do with our size and their perception of us, he says. The smaller the creature, the faster their metabolic rate and the quicker its eyes process information. In the case of the fly, it’s four times faster than us. “They see the world in ‘slo-mo’ ” he says. “We humans can get glimpses of that in moments of high stress, like car crashes and the brain goes into overdrive to avoid disaster. It could also explain why time seems slower to children”.
PHOTO: Natural History Museum, London
MOVING ON OUT: Dippy prepares to leave South Kensington prior to his UK walkabout.
Hocus pocus, diplodocus IF SOMEONE IN DEVON CAN CONJURE UP a space big enough to show it off properly, the likelihood of the Natural History Museum’s famous diplodocus skeleton - aka ‘Dippy’ adding Devon to its list of regional stop-overs when his grand tour of the UK starts in two years time is “good”. Dippy is being moved from the main gallery at the NHM to make room for another giant, this time the blue whale. A spokesperson for the NHM told us, “Once it leaves Hintze Hall in 2017, taking the Diplodocus on tour would inspire many more millions of people and, given the public response, we will now see how we can involve people in making this tour happen.” “Due to the fragility and size of the skeleton, it will take time for the Museum to work out how and where the Diplodocus may tour. Made up of 292 bones, fully assembled Dippy is the length of three double-decker buses.
And after the planned tour? “Dippy is destined to find a new home back in South Kensington,” we were told, but hopefully after a visit to Devon rather than, say, Dorset, where a former quarry on the Isle of Portland, is currently being investigated as the site for an £85m Jurassic Park.
A better way to catch flies DEVON NEEDS TO DEVELOP better flycatching skills this summer if it is to outwit and out-manoeuvre the expected boom in musca domestica - the common house fly brought on by the wonderfully warm Spring. But thanks to the timely arrival of an article on the subject of better ways of swatting flies from Dr. Andrew Jackson of Trinity College, Dublin, writing in the journal Animal
Well, despite having 4000 lenses in each fly eye, your swatter only comes into sharp focus for the last 24-36 inches or so of travel - at which point they will jump up and backwards: so for an optimum result swipe at them from down and behind. Better still perhaps, do what granny did and buy a sticky flypaper. Flies love company and as soon as one or two get stuck, others will home-in to check out the buzz.
swan are the birds most likely to turn up at bread feeding times, along with Canada geese.
Ducks in danger
But other species sometimes mix with breadfeeding wildfowl in parks, lakes and canals. “Wildfowl,” he told us, “have an amazing ability and changing behaviour to match how the whole flock of ducks behave. It wouldn't take long for, say, a Gadwall in a flock of bread-eating Mallards to behave exactly like all the Mallards, even if it had never eaten bread before in its life”.
FEEDING BREAD TO DUCKS is a pastime enjoyed by many but it is bad for them, says the Canal & River Trust, who are responsible for more than 2,000 miles of waterways. Peter Birch, their national environment manager told us: “It is not their natural food and does them more harm than good. A better alternative would be defrosted peas, oats or corn as a healthier alternative”. Steve Waite of the Devon Birds Organisation told us there are countless tens of thousands
So how to beat them? Flies that is. Even those with charmed lives.
So it’s duck and green peas on the Devon menu from now on - hold the bread! of duck in Devon, particularly Mallard (pictured) and these, along with the Mute
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
JOHN FISHER
31
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Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
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33
We dip into Devon’s seaside past and uncover the birth of bikinis, the rise and fall of bloomers and by-gone bathing machines along the prom
Those magnificent belles in their bathing machines THE ITSY BITSY TEENIE WEENIE yellow polka dot bikini first came to the attention of the bubble-gum generation of the early 60s via teenage heart-throb Bobby Darin, although female athletes and acrobats wearing ‘le minimum’ were all the rage in Ancient Rome.
it was ‘small and devastating’. No ‘respectable mannequin’ could be found to wear it for its unveiling until Micheline Bernardini, a 19-year-old nude dancer from the Casino de Paris was persuaded to ease herself into the breach - and history.
Elizabeth I included, bathed more than once or twice a year because it was considered injurious to health. Society was long used to the odours of others and did what it could to smile and bear it. Doctors and physicians believed the body’s health to be governed
Witness the mosaic of girls uncovered at the Villa Romana del Casale, Sicily, from 300 AD.
For what goes round wraps round of course and nowhere more so than in covering the differences between the sexes when taking a public plunge. Our modern use of the word ‘bikini’ dates from 1st July, 1946 and the atom bomb test on the tiny atoll of that name in the Marshall Islands in the Pacific. Barely five days after an event that shook the world there came a second when the French unveiled a tiny two-piece swim-suit in Paris named “le bikini” because, said engineer Louis Réard, its designer, 34
The two-piece swimsuit she modelled for the world’s media had a g-string back and was made of 30 square inches (194 cm2) of cloth. Subsequently Mlle Bernardini received over 50,000 fan letters, several of them from women.
Wet, wet, wet Bathing of any sort in the years following those rampant Romans was widely looked upon as something curative rather than pleasurable or even necessary. This had long been an age when most people washed their hands and faces daily, but few of them,
made a note of the public bathing at Bath, describing the costumes of that era worn by wealthier people.
Canvas opinion “The Ladyes go into the bath with Garments made of a fine yellow canvas, which is stiff and made large with great sleeves like a parson’s gown; the water fills it up so that it is borne off that your shape is not seen, it does not cling close as other linning, which Lookes sadly in the poorer sort that go in their own linning. The Gentlemen have drawers and wastcoates of the same sort of canvas, this is the best linning, for the bath water will Change any other yellow”.
The middle and upper classes therefore came to ‘take the waters’ at spas, such as Bath or Cheltenham, where they either immersed themselves in it or drank it: most times, both.
Before the 18th century shuddered to its grimy halt, visiting the seaside for a ‘dip’ in the briny (they invented the use of the word in this sense) became increasingly fashionable with the upper classes and sea bathing, especially for gentlemen at August Spring Tide was thought to have an especially prophylactic effect. This is from the diary of Fanny Burney, recording an amusing scene when George III took his first trip to Weymouth to take the plunge - for reasons best known to himself.
In 1687, the extraordinary and feisty lady traveller, Celia Fiennes, a West Country lass and an ancestor of today’s Sir Ranulph Fiennes,
“Nor is this all. Think but of the surprise of His Majesty when, the first time of his bathing, he had no sooner popped his
by ‘humours’. These humours, brought about by vapours inhaled or absorbed by the body, were four in number and perfectly in balance with each other when the person was healthy.
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
royal head under water than a band of music, concealed in a neighbouring machine, struck up "God save great George our King”. So sea bathing was one thing but to strip off and frolic in the foam for fun was something that would have to be slipped in under the Victorian radar, little by little. But first, thankfully, before Victoria poured her cold water on a generation, there was Jane Austen.
puts these words into the mouth of one of her characters, although they almost certainly echo her own feelings on the subject: “Every five years one hears of some new place or other starting up by the sea and growing the fashion. How they can half of them be filled is the wonder! Where people can be found with money or time to go to them. Bad things for a county, sure to raise the price of provisions and make the poor good for nothing!” The answer to that particular maiden’s prayer of course would be a few more years in arriving, in the form of the railways. Meantime, all along the coast, blacksmiths were busy converting farm carts and wheeling them out as bathing machines and fishermen’s wives were re-inventing themselves as ‘dippers’.
Jane loved the seaside, especially Devon’s seaside (well most of it, because she did write that ”the subscription library at Dawlish is pitiful and wretched”) was one of those people of fashion during the Regency who enjoyed taking the plunge - away from prying eyes of course and suitably screened from the curious by a professional ‘dipper’ and a bathing machine. But she was also aware that the seaside was becoming a business and seaside ‘resorts’ - places where the locals went out of their way to attract and cater for the well-to-do were growing in number. They began to spring up all around the coast, particularly in the West Country and she was distressed at the changes that were taking place at so many of its small coastal communities.
to be re-painted and pensioned-off as changing rooms, from whence men and women took the plunge by tippy-toeing over the pebbles, not in yellow canvas coveralls, but in fashionable new, brightly coloured ‘swimming costumes’.
“Too strong for Exmouth” But first this, from a long, somewhat steamy letter to the editor of The Illustrated Times on 4th October, 1855 complaining of “the monstrous sights” that met his gaze as he took a casual stroll along Exmouth’s sea front (just happening to pass by the area where the women’s bathing machines were lined up along the water’s edge). ‘These women, who wait upon the ladies’ bathing machines in Exmouth have chosen to assume a costume so bold and repulsive that it is impossible to describe it. I make the attempt. (I was approached by) a form attired in coarse trousers with something on its head like a cowl, I concluded that it was some mad woman who had put on her husband’s clothes by mistake. This may be all proper at the Crystal Palace but, sir; it is too strong for Exmouth!”
Modern times
Martha Gunn, most renowned of Georgian dippers ‘Dippers’ were the denizen guides whose services came with the rental of the machines, their job being to escort bathers into and out of the water. Lady Nelson, for instance, disliked bathing at Sidmouth - where the bathing machines were that much closer to the curious strolling along what would one day become a promenade - and took her regular ‘dips’ at Exmouth instead.
For the next one hundred years or so bathing costumes - for men as well as women - continued to cover most of what distinguished the sexes from each other. Women wore bathing dresses over bloomers, popularised by the American women’s rights advocate. Amelia Bloomer: these were made from flannel or wool and left everything to the imagination. Gentlemen on the other hand wore one-piece woollen costumes designed to cover elbows and knees but tended to cling to everything elsewhere when wet.
For medically prescribed dips the dipper ensured that their charges received three total immersions, at which the cry was “Enough!” Anyone who continued to wallow in the briny was deemed to be frolicking - and it was thus that sea bathing as an enjoyable pastime came into being.
Her increasing anxiety of these places losing their innocence manifests itself in her unfinished novel, Sanditon, which is a pseudonym for Sidmouth; here she
Sea dipping faded and disappeared by the mid-1850s but as the railways delivered more and more people to the Victorian seaside, the bathing machines saw a new lease of life in the 1890s by being pulled further up the beach, What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
Arrested for indecency on a public beach in 1907 was one Annette Kellerman, a writer, actress and Channel swimmer, for wearing the onesie swim-suit she had designed for herself. Her crime ushered in a new era, pushing back the frontiers of what was decent and eventually what was barely half-decent on the sea shore. As leisure time became available across the whole of society, splashing about in the water became ever more popular and a whole new aspect of the fashion industry sprang up to cater for those who dared embrace the new. Old-time Devonians must have watched open-mouthed as swimming costumes and swim-suits so-called, changed size and shape and increasing areas of neck, chest, bosom, arm, middle, bottom and leg were exposed. At which point, with g-strings and thongs, mono-kinis and the inevitable man-kini best left for others to ponder, the whole business of what and what not to reveal on a beach seems to be reaching full circle again, save for those who choose to swim and sunbathe in a state of nature.
For those so inclined, there are four naturist beaches in Devon, mostly but not all, off the beaten track - where naturists are free to swim and bathe unconcerned at or by the vagaries of fashion. These are at Weston Mouth (twixt Seaton and Sidmouth), Budleigh Salterton, (that’s the western end) Slapton Sands (ditto) and last but not least, in North Devon at Wild Pear beach - and no, we didn’t make that last one up. JOHN FISHER 35
The Passivhaus A new concept
There is a new concept arising within the building trade. One which is likely to shift our views on regular builds, and greatly expand our knowledge and imaginations from the current, modern day living spaces we have become accustomed to.
T
he Passivhaus is a building concept which is fundamentally based on the idea of constructing an air tight structure. This concept originates from Germany, where the first Passivhaus residences were built in Darmstadt in 1990, by the architectural firm Bott, Ridder and Westermeyer. These were a row of four residential terraced houses, however, the standard has developed, and is not confined to residential properties; several office buildings, schools, kindergartens and a supermarket have also been constructed to the standard. Passivhaus design is not an attachment or supplement to architectural design, but a design process that is integrated with architectural design. Although it is mostly applied to new buildings, it has also been used for refurbishments.
regulations, has an average of 3-10 air changes per hour. A Passivhaus is built to such a high degree of air tightness, that the air changes per hour cannot exceed 0.6. An exceptional difference, and one which doesnʼt come easily. As well as achieving this high level of air tightness, the other three targets required in Passivhaus certification include high levels of insulation, minimal or no thermal bridging, and high performance triple glazed windows. It is constructed rather like a ventilated thermos flask, eliminating the usual
These constructions are, as you can imagine, incredibly hard to achieve. They need to adhere to extremely strict guidelines from start to finish, in order to attain their stamp of Passivhaus Certification. It is this certification which gives the building its value, and is far more complex in nature than that of a standard eco build.
two channels of heat loss through firstly the fabric of the building, and secondly through ventilation.
During a regular building construction, air is leaked into the building as quickly as it is being built. A regular build, built to current UK building
So, how exactly is this type of structure built? Although a Passivhaus is similar to a standard build, there is greater emphasis on
36
quality control, care and workmanship. To enable compliance to passive house standards, supply chains are educated with the requirements of certification, air tightness training is carried out, as well as specific onsite inductions relating to air tightness and passivhaus construction. Anybody can build to the principles of passive house construction, but to do so in line with the regulations of Passivhaus certification requires an acute eye to detail at every step of the way. The high degree of air tightness means that these houses do not need a traditional heating system. Alternatively, they are equipped with a MVHR System (mechanical ventilation heat recovery system). This system costs approximately £11,000 installed, and basically works by drawing in the clean cold air from outside, and extracting the warm dirty air from inside. A heat exchanger ensures that there is only a 5% loss of heat energy from its original heat source, which really is quite fantastic. A Passivhaus is also designed to maximise solar gain, whilst also using a shading strategy, so that the house does not overheat. Its high thermal mass also means that the buildings superstructure retains its heat energy through the summer months, then releasing its heat during the winter months. The building is designed to sit at an
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
average temperate of 20 degrees celsius all year round, which means that to cool it down you need only open a window, or use a heater if you wish to increase the temperature. Typically, a passive house reduces a homeʼs heating bill to just £60-£90 per year. In Passivhaus buildings, the cost savings from dispensing with the conventional heating system can be used to fund the upgrade of the building envelope and the heat recovery ventilation system. Even with this in mind, it is apparent that clients tend to buy into the philosophy rather than to acquire financial gain. Another benefit of living in a building which requires no heating or air conditioning system is that the MVHR system filters the fresh air to remove most of the pollen and dust before being led into the dwelling, a blessing for sufferers of allergies and asthma. A Passivhaus is healthy and comfortable to both live and work in.
Passive Housing Certification. Business owners Eddie Acford and Anmarie Price (husband and wife team), aim to reduce the costs of construction to something more of the norm for standard developments, at around £1,100 per square metre. These houses can be built in both timber frame and masonry, with Eddie having
using “Passivhaus” method for an apartment development. Purely through passive design elements, Rowan House uses approximately 90% less heating energy when compared to a standard UK building. The building shows that we can defeat fuel poverty and combat climate change at the same time.
This all sounds rather impressive, but how does the timescale and cost of this concept compare with a regular build? Typically, a Passivhaus would take around the same time to complete, and cost between 5-10% more than a standard construction in Europe. However, there is a local Devon-based company who is striving to find a formula to build these homes for the average person, bridging the gap between the wealthy sector and social housing.
A Passivhaus is healthy and comfortable to both live and work in
It was these developments in 2011 which really captured Edʼs interest, and he started researching passive housing, and where it stood within the UK. Anmarieʼs background in business and marketing, together with Ed`s passion and knowledge for this fascinating concept, led to the start-up of Point 6 Projects in 2012. The first project to kick off their business was of a contemporary design, set in a hill overlooking Croyde Bay. The budget for this build was £1 million, and really is the most spectacular
Point 6 Projects specialise in the construction of ultra-low energy homes and homes built to
experience in both type of construction. Ed`s years of experience working as both site and project manager for large construction companies, led him to work for a company who took on the first passive house development in Exeter for Exeter City Council. Rowan House and Knightʼs Place are among the first social housing accommodation in the UK to be built
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
Continued Continued on page on page 46... 37
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Seafarer Picnic Range
LIGHTING
Matching cool bags available
Bowl £2.50
CREATIVE LIGHTING FROM SOME OF THE WORLD’S FINEST DESIGNERS.
Mug £2.70
Side plate £2.00
AMOS
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Choose from a selection of vintage inspired designs
Storage bag £5.99 Lunch box £4.99
Bridford Road, Marsh Barton Industrial Estate Exeter EX2 8QX
Lunch bag £3.99
Tel: 01392 677030 www.amoslighting.co.uk
Plymouth
niki's
soft furnishings
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Fabric, Interiors & People
Ivybridge 01752 897384
Totnes
Tavistock
Glossy, high-circulation advertising doesn't have to be expensive. We're a local publisher with affordable Devon rates not inflated, silly, 'London' advert prices! DEVONʼS BIGGEST COUNTY GLOSSY COVERAGE 1,000 high quality outlets
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Just £15 a week for this advert!
39
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HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Make your dream kitchen a reality...
Call: 01822 617240 www.charlesgraykitchens.co.uk Visit our showroom: Unit 2 Pixon Court, Crelake Ind. Est. Tavistock PL19 9AZ
We offer the complete kitchen service:
stockists of
Mike Lovell of Plymstock Carpets and Flooring is pleased to be one of the specially chosen independent installers to offer the high quality range. He answers some of the most common questions from his customers. Q: What is Amtico?
Amtico is the UK’s original luxury design floor company. It is unrivalled in its design capability and offers my customers the opportunity to create a totally unique floor. With over 4000 design options, we can create the ultimate experience in bespoke designs which will compliment any room type - we can look at the decor and furniture etc. to create a floor with unique and creative designs and colours which will compliment the room.
• Free kitchen survey and 3D computer design • Extensive range of kitchens and appliances to choose from • Work completed from start to finish; removal of old kitchen, building work, alterations or repairs, laying new floors to full installation of bespoke kitchen including worktops, plumbing, electrics, decorating and tiling • Excellent personal service • Full project management • Farrow & Ball paint and paper stockists
Q: What finishes are available with Amtico?
Q: Does Amtico require specialist installation?
Amtico offers Traditional, classical, contemporary and minimalist floors in a wide variety of options including wood planks, parquet flooring, tiles & abstract designs which makes it totally unique.
Yes, we ensure that our fully trained installers carry out a preparation process prior to laying the floor, ensuring that our customers receive the floor and finish they desire.
Q: How does it perform?
Q: What about maintenance?
You can have the real look of wooden floors without the maintenance required of sanding, sealing polishing etc. The Amtico range of tiles look as good as ceramic, however they are warmer and softer to the touch with special design strips in between the tiles. These strips allow the grout lines to be added however will not discolour and stain like most grouting in between normal floor tiles.
Amtico is a very low maintenance product and is also very tough and durable. The product comes with lifetime guarantee.
PLYMSTOCK CARPETS AND FLOORING 5 Radford Park Road, Plymstock PL9 9DG www.plymstockcarpets.co.uk
40
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
Tel: 01752 493355
Your essential home project resource
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Marble ❖ Granite ❖ Slate ❖ Travertine ❖ Quartzstone
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plymouth stone SERVING THE WEST COUNTRY SINCE 1909
01752 706388
www.plymstone.co.uk sales@plymstone.co.uk
A fourth generation family business founded in 1909 supplying bespoke natural stone products for the home Showroom Open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm and Sunday 10am -2pm 109 Efford Road, Plymouth PL3 6NG
Devon Leather Care
01803 844664
Whatever the Leather!
Professional cleaning of carpets, upholstery and much more!
Fully Insured & Guaranteed. Eco-friendly cleaning products. Free no-obligation quotations.
ation family business founded in 1909 oke natural stone products for the home
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one 01752 706388
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Call now for a no obligation quotation 01803 844664 • 07795 836386 ❖ sales@plymstone.co.uk www.ccsdevon.co.uk • info@ccsdevon.co.uk
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* Terms & Conditions apply. Offer vaild for cleaning services only with mention of this advert at quotation. Offer vailed until 31st May 15
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41
Your essential home project resource
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
West Country Stoves Contemporary & Traditional Stoves • Heating Specialists
Totnes Tile & Bathroom Studio
www.westcountrystoves.co.uk
One of the largest selections of tiles in the South West • A beautiful range of wall and floor tiles including Ceramic, Slate, Stone & Mosaic • Bathroom Studio displaying traditional and contemporary suites from selected manufacturers
• Underfloor heating specialist • Many exclusive ranges • Family Run Business • Under new ownership • Public and trade welcome
Rais Q Tee Stove
Please visit our extensive Showroom at Aveton Gifford, Kingsbridge. Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 3pm
Unit 1, Archant House, Babbage Road TQ9 5JA 01803 865865 • www.totnestiles.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 8.30 to 5 Sat 9-4
42
Contact us - Tel: 01548 550400 Email: info@westcountrystoves.co.uk Avon Bridge, Aveton Gifford, Kingsbridge TQ7 4NT
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
Your essential home project resource
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
Beauty is in the eye of the bill-holder The beautifully designed Ă–koFEN hand-fill wood pellet boiler Organic Energy offer a range of beautifully designed wood pellet boilers that can help protect you and your family from energy shortages and ever-increasing fuel bills. You could even benefit with payments from UK Government Incentive schemes, the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and the Green Deal. And with a model to suit every space and your pocket, beauty has never been so affordable.
For details of your local approved installer, call
01938 530 070 or email info@organicenergy.co.uk organicenergy.co.uk
the natural choice for sustainable heating
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
43
Your essential home project resource
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
timberventure New Rooms from Empty Spaces Need more space, but don’t have the budget for an extension? A garden room is a great solution. Being truly bespoke, every garden room we build is made to meet the exact specification set out by you the customer. Every detail is taken into consideration - from your design through to construction in our Devon workshop and then finally at delivery and installation.
Call us now for a free survey
See our display at Fermoys Garden Centre, Ipplepen
01803 414570 • 07713 165369 www.timberventure.co.uk
S U B R U O TING Y INESS DOWN?
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esponsive websites? Missing out since Google’s downgrading of non-r without hassle? Want to be able to add completed projects yourself way forward? Out of time - need proper help to plot an effective Don’t want to be stuck with an expensive, inflexible
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Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
01395 513383
HOUSE & HOME
Your essential home project resource
CONSERVATORIES
|
ORANGERIES
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BI-FOLDING
devonshiremagazine.co.uk
|
PATIO DOORS
Is your conservatory...
Call for advice & a free quote:
01626 333393
renaissanceconservatories.co.uk • Easy to install to existing conservatory frames • Reduce glare, dirt and noise • Incredible u-value of 0.18! • Choice of tile colours
too HOT in summer or too COLD in winter? Local approved installers of
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The Southern Timber Co.Ltd
www.southern-timber.co.uk
In the Garden Now that summer's here, it's time to make sure your ponds are cleared and frequently topped up. Also remember to be mindful of how much water you are using, just in case of water shortages. Water butts are a great way of collecting and storing water for such occasions. If you have tall, floppy plants it's best to stake them to prevent any damage. It's also a good idea to get the paint out, if needed, for those wooden items and make the most of the warmer, dryer weather to get that essential maintenance done to sheds, fences! What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
Elderflower - a great harvest for wine-making
45
Your essential home project resource
The Passivhaus
HOUSE & HOME devonshiremagazine.co.uk
continued
of structures. Since then there have been numerous projects such as project managing three developments for Exeter City Council, which are near completion.
Partnership. The synergy between these specialist Passivhaus architects and designers, together with Point 6 Projects, will mean a full service of design, planning and building all under the same roof.
quickly the rest of the construction industry, and clients alike, will realise the benefits of such a build, and in turn, how the future of building regulations in the UK shall develop in the near future.
Perhaps the most exciting news at present is the office move over to Clyst St George in June, where they will be sharing a fabulous open plan, re-furbished barn with Regeneration
It is an exciting time for Passivhaus homes, in Devon especially now that we have a leading company in this concept working within our reach. It shall be interesting to see just how
By Amanda Merchant
HOT TUBS Exclusive to
Point 6 Projects 01395 444284
Conservatories & Garden Buildings Conservatories & Garden Buildings Endsleigh Garden and Leisure, Ivybridge 01752 690626
in Devon
Why settle for second best? Weʼve got luxury at its finest!
Devonʼs Premier Swimming Pool and Hot Tub Company
01803 296336 Torquay TQ1 1PA www.harrispools.co.uk
46
Whether you want a greenhouse or just a pane of glass, a fabulous summerhouse, an honest garden shed, or an elegant conservatory to grace your home our friendly and professional team are happy to help.
See our website for more information: www.cadleighgardenbuildings.co.uk
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
THE GARDEN PARK at Trago Newton Abbot ®
50 YEARS
OF UNBEATABLE BARGAINS! Est. 1965 So much choice, so many surprises... At The Garden Park we have brought together one of Britain’s widest range of plants and gardening products. You will find everything that the discerning gardener could possibly need - and all at Trago’s everyday lowest prices!
Chelsea in the heart of Devon...
Restaurant Complex... Treat your family to a hearty meal, tasty light snack or quick bite in our stunning fully licensed Tea Room & Restaurant Complex. Great views over our spectacular Garden Park!
Just off the A382! Plenty of FREE parking!
Famous West Country garden designer and multiple Chelsea Gold Medal winner, Paul Stone, has created a haven of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of Trago’s retail store. Take a stroll around our beautiful themed gardens and be inspired!
Drive Thru’ service... Our unique Drive Thru’ service means that you can collect any heavy items that you have purchased and we’ll help you to load your vehicle before you leave!
Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat 9am - 5.30pm • Thurs 9am - 8pm • Sun 10am - 4pm TRAGO MILLS NEWTON ABBOT • T: 01626 821111 DEVON TQ12 6JD off the A382 to Newton Abbot
www.trago.co.uk What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
We also have stores at... LISKEARD • T:01579 348877 • PL14 6HY FALMOUTH • T:01326 315738 • TR11 3LG 47
The Oak Room
The Bar
S TAY C AT I O N Lewdown Nr Okehampton Devon
Lewtrenchard Manor 01566 783222 lewtrenchard.co.uk
An idillic setting, with beautiful grounds and outstanding backdrop in a hidden valley Our first morning at Lewtrenchard Manor was a lovely awakening, strolling up Madam's walk, an avenue of beech trees that leads off the side of the Manor and along the valley. The shades and volume of green hitting the eyes in May was deeply relaxing and mesmerizing, together with the sweet, clear chatter of birdsong. What strikes you when you drive down to Lewtrenchard Manor is that you're in deep Devon countryside,
Beautiful wistaria strewn courtyard
48
endless fields, hedgerows, woods, rivers. The experience goes to reinforce the fact that Devon's a rural county, and if you love countryside, I honestly cannot think of anywhere lovelier to visit. Arriving at a hotel, you're left in no doubt that you've arrived at a beautiful place, the manor itself is elegant, the front facade faces directly over the grounds and valley with no annoying traffic, buildings or anything to mar your experience.
The team at Lewtrenchard greeted us warmly and helped us settle in quickly, so we could get down to the serious business of enjoying the Manor. The room we'd been allocated was excellent, spacious, super clean with all facilities you could think of. Of particular importance of course was the bed. Getting a good night's sleep is important when you're away from home, and the bed here was superb. In terms of cleanliness, they have probably the most efficient room service I've ever experienced, by the time we'd come back from breakfast, the room had been tidied from top to bottom - amazing!
Sauntering around the Manor was a pleasurable experience, the interior is both interesting and grand, many of the rooms are panelled, with sumptuous moulded plasterwork ceilings. Outside, the gardens have both formal elements, but also informal sections that form a visual bridge to the rural landscape. As mentioned earlier, the backdrop is lovely and sense of peace at the Manor is totally uninterrupted. Whilst visiting, you can enjoy visiting Lydford Gorge, there are endless walks and Tavistock's a delightful 10 mile drive southwards through beautiful countryside.
A Lagonda, what else? - a thoroughly English car getting an airing at the Manor
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
A glimpse from the garden
The Library
The beautiful gallery
The owners, Sue and James with Son Duncan
Of course, when holidaying, you can experience great facilities, but sometimes have to put up with stuff y, unhelpful staff. Gladly, the staff at Lewtrenchard Manor were all genuinely friendly and helpful without being intrusive or overbearing. Lewtrenchard Manor is run by the
that Lewtrenchard Manor lived up to expectation, with courses being of a very high standard. Firstly, breakfast was great, freshly squeezed orange juice (it does amaze me how many hotels serve up awful concentrate stuff ), and the full English breakfast again being excellent.
understand what I'm saying. I always consider that the more you tinker with food, the easier it is to get it wrong, happily, all the courses served up were excellent. Pre starters, we were served with Mushroom Velouté which was a lovely start to the meal - just brilliant. Of particular note was the
The 'house' dog, Spencer - his father was born at Blenheim Palace!
Pond and holy well - the gardens are really charming
The contented smile says it all, Alfie's a happy guest
owners, this clearly showing through in their commitment to looking after guests. Better still, it's dog friendly, so if you hate leaving your nearest and dearest behind, you'll be relived that you can bring your dog along with you too!
Whilst at Lewtrenchard Manor, we sampled both the bar and dining room menu. Opting for their venison burger was a good choice, as it proved delicious and satisfying.
Turbot with textures of Cauliflower main, as was the Assiette of Devon Beef, truly excellent.
In terms of dining, I'm happy to say
The dining room menu takes you into the realm of 'fine dining', if you look at the pictures below you'll
To conclude, our stay at Lewtrenchard Manor was thoroughly enjoyable and in fact, we can't recommend it highly enough. See our Reader Offer (right). Editor
Madam's Walk running directly off the side of the Manor, a beautiful avenue of beeches strewn with bluebells, having views out across the valley. Alfie's enjoying the wildlife.
Reader Offer Dinner, Bed and Breakfast for £225 per night (based on double occupancy and inclusive of the room, dinner, full English breakfast and VAT. Subject to availability, excludes certain dates.)
To access this offer you need to quote magazine
Top - Assiette of Devon Beef Below - Vanilla and Rhubarb Pannacotta
Tastings of Duck
Top - Turbot with textures of Cauliflower Below - Bitter chocolate with Raspberries
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
49
The Old Vet’nary by Ken Watson
People and Pets a friendly, family practice
I
n days of old, when vets were bold, and fees were not so expensive, I would roam far and wide to visit my patients and life was so much more interesting. Among my clients I could count the Lord Lieutenants of both Devon and Cornwall, ex-government ministers and various famous people, but most the very ordinary folk who, with their apparently boring lives all have a story to tell. People talk to vets much more than they do to doctors, and so we were a repository of that rich tapestry which is the matrix of all life around us. I soon learnt that in all levels of society, from the castle to the tenement, you will find equal numbers of the good and the bad. Just because someone lives in a grand mansion he may not necessarily pay his bills as well as the little old lady living in a terrace house on a small pension. Take the rather querulous old lady who lived with her Sealyham Terrier in a terrace house not far from my surgery. My first impression was not good as she whined and creaked about the house, her legs encased in horrific metal calipers. Then one day she showed me a photograph of herself in WAAF uniform, an attractive 18 year old blonde, and she told me her story. She was being chatted up by an officer outside a hut at RAF Uxbridge when a hit and run Messerschmit fighter
bomber attacked the aerodrome. The shrapnel from a bomb shattered her legs and she spent the next 18 months in hospital. Her life was never the same again. Such are the cruel cards that life can deal you. The daughter of one of the foremost aristocratic families of Devon would often find an excuse to bring her cat to my surgery when the hunt met at her ancestral home. She was beautiful in a Spanish kind of way, and very intelligent. She would stay for a chat, but it was obvious that life sat heavily upon her shoulders; and so it proved because she was soon in trouble with the law and later committed suicide. What a terrible waste. Mrs. P was the chatelaine of a large stately mansion and still lived in a bygone age. When greeting you she would hold out the back of her hand to be kissed, and even for everyday meals her dining table would be set with elaborate place names. She always referred to her husband as “The Major” and their shooting dogs were all named after wild duck. So we had Wigeon, Mallard, Teal and so on. After Major died, whenever there was any decision to be made about the dogs she would say, “I will ask the Major”, and then the next day she would ring me up and say, “ The Major and I have agreed to your suggestion”. She was a lovely lady.
'Wilson'
...Providing the highest standards of professional veterinary care OPENING TIMES Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 6.30pm Saturday: 8.30am - 12.30pm Consultations by Appointment
EMERGENCY SERVICE For out of hours veterinary attention or advice please ring 01752 700600
PLYMOUTH
IVYBRIDGE
Burnett Road, Manadon, Plymouth PL6 5BH
Cornwood Road, Woodlands, Ivybridge PL21 9JJ
01752 700600
01752 690999
Part Time Clinic at Yealmpton
In the fishing village of Beer, half way up the main street, a group of old houses were due to be demolished and rebuilt. Meanwhile residents were to be moved. But one old retired fisherman refused to shift. “I will never move” he told me. He called me and asked me to collect his elderly cat on the day of the move and put him to sleep. He said he would leave the fee on the kitchen table. When I arrived I found a police car sitting outside. The
by Richard Woodward
police told me that he had been found dead sitting in his favourite armchair with his cat on his lap. They said he looked quite peaceful. One of my favourite memories is visiting a certain lord and his lady, well known for their philanthropy and public duties, to treat their flat-coat Retriever. When I was shown into the lounge by the butler (oh yes!) they turned to me and said, “Mr. Watson would you mind waiting until we just finish this game?” The game was this; one would hold the dog and cover his eyes and ears, while the other would hide a much-loved toy somewhere in the room. Then the dog had to find it. A simple game but thoroughly enjoyed by all three. I remember thinking how different people are in the privacy of their home and what would people think who only see them in their public persona, civic duties and charity work. All lovely people and all gone now but, as a vet, I got to know them as they really were. K. Watson
50
Countryside, History, Walks, Events, the Arts & all things Devon at Devonshire magazine.co.uk
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
To Judge or not to Judge I was so excited after I put down the phone. Something I had always wanted to do had just been presented to me on a plate - to judge a local pet show. I absolutely love dogs particularly my own of course. The date was set and I was ready and waiting. What to wear? Go posh, or low key. No, the former, needed to be very professional. The day dawned and thank goodness the weather was beautiful, so the chosen outfit was entirely suitable. A cream linen skirt (below the knee so dogs couldn’t look up my skirt), coloured blouse and matching jacket. I thought about gloves, because who knows what I might be handling - stupid idea, only the Queen wears gloves and I doubt she has had such an important engagement for years. I was taking this really seriously. Hat? No. I arrived at the village green in plenty of time and introduced myself to the Show Secretary. (She was also taking this seriously and was in a cream linen skirt (well below the knee), matching blouse and jacket. Goodness did we look like twins? Down to business. Something was not quite right. I had a terrible feeling inside. I desperately tried to recall the telephone conversation when I was invited to judge this dog show. Why weren’t there many dogs? To my horror, I remember the conversation entirely. “Mrs East would you be interested in judging our annual “PET” show”? Oh no! My worst nightmare. It was not a dog show at all. The time had arrived and I was invited to enter the ring where I was faced with at least 10 competitors ranging in age from 5 to very elderly, and for added pressure, every competitor seemed to have brought along every member of their family and their neighbours for moral support. To my horror there was only one dog. I quickly asked the Steward (who also wore a linen skirt, just below the knee) how many
prizes and Rosettes we had. She said 3. Oh dear. So there were going to be plenty of tears. Without further ado, I plunged myself fully into the task ahead. A quick glance at the variety of serious faces looking at me confirmed my suspicion that this judging lark was not quite the stroll in the park I thought it might be. The noise was incredible and rather than standing in a beautiful village green setting, I felt as if I was stood in an old fashioned cattle market where every type of animal possible was up for sale and all of them using their vocal chords to the full. With my head held high and smiling, I walked very confidently to exhibit No. 1 - a lovely caged brown longhaired hamster, which was clearly not interested and refused to wake up even with vigorous prodding by its distraught young owner. Moving along the line was a cat on a lead, 3 white mice racing each other around their cage and next, a young teenager sat on a beautiful picnic rug, but with no sign of any pet whatsoever. I glanced hopefully at her and she smiled back. Then a period of silence whist she whispered something down the front of her blouse. I cannot believe what happened next... A revolting pet rat emerged. I nearly died... and not of laughter. How could I possibly award a rosette to an animal that I spend copious amounts of money on trying to eradicate from our farm ! Moving swift ly on, the next young lad was grinning from ear to ear as he showed me the contents of his large brown box. There inside was a beautiful Lavender Pekin hen with 4 baby chicks all scratching around in a bed of fresh shavings. My heart lifted - not all was lost. I soon arrived at the dear old lady with the only dog. She had very white hair, so did the dog. She wore a red and white polka dot headscarf, so did the dog and when she smiled at me she had approximately 3 or 4 teeth. I daren’t look in the dog’s mouth just in case that had a similar amount of teeth - my reaction may have verged on the unprofessional! Perhaps she should have entered a proper dog show in the “dog that most looks like its owner” class.
What's On? southdevonhub .co.uk
I was nearly at the end of the line. The second to last competitor was holding a large clear jar fi lled with green foliage. After sometime, I saw a rather small stick insect, which I was informed, was called Jumbo - nice name. My last competitor was a middle aged man, smiling rather a lot and on his shoulder was perched a beautiful parrot which I do believe was grinning as well. The cause of the merriment soon became clear as the competitor took a swig from his pint of bitter and then proceeded to offer the parrot a sip as well... it was a beautiful hot day and I was informed that a dehydrating parrot is not a happy one. What a lovely note to end on. Except the end was not insight, it was all just beginning for me. How on earth do you select the winner. I stood back and was joined by the very efficient Steward who was clasping the rosettes in anticipation. I looked at every entrant again and again. A silence hung around the ring. The first prize I awarded to the beautiful hen and her chicks - that met with approval from the crowd. Second prize, much trickier, so I plumped for effort and turnout - it went to the old lady who was overjoyed - I had a chance to recount her teeth - it was 3 only - bless her. The third prize needed to bring out the fun side of such a competition and of course it went to the parrot before it got inebriated and fell of his “perch”.
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artisans and artists INTERIOR DESIGN
A full interior design service from concept to completion. Working closely with clients to sensitively realise the full potential of each property and fulďŹ l each client’s wishes for their home. Creating imaginative, personal, timeless and soulful interiors that are in tune with the client and the way they choose to live.
Put art at the heart of everyday life Oxford House West Street Ashburton Devon UK TQ13 7DU
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