EAST DEVON December 2012/January 2013
Covering East Devon, Exeter and West Dorset
FREE
Situated in the beautiful conservation area of Budleigh Salterton, Pinewood Residential & Nursing Home provides stunning views of the Jurassic coast and a level of care that is second-to-none. Pinewood Home Care is an independent Domiciliary Care Agency, established by Pinewood Residential & Nursing Home, providing a wide range of care services to assist people in their home, on a one-to-one basis, allowing them to live independently. Why not get in touch with us today to find out what we can do to help you or your loved ones retain their freedom, dignity and independence. Call us on the number below or visit our website for more information.
“I enjoy being at Pinewood. I feel like I’m at home rather than in a nursing home and I’m well looked after.” – Rosemary Humphries
“Your carers have been looking after my mum Laura Fletcher for a while now. I would just like to say a huge thank you. They are kind, thoughtful, and actually take an interest in their work. Well done Pinewood.” – Peter Fletcher
“I try to join in the activities at Pinewood every day of the week. It keeps me young and nimble I really love bowling on the Wii” – Judy Lindley
Pinewood Residential & Nursing Home and Pinewood Home Care 33 Victoria Place, Budleigh Salterton, Devon, EX9 6JP Call us on 01395 446 161, email us at mail@pinewoodonline.co.uk or visit our website at www.pinewoodonline.co.uk
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Contents Dec-Jan
ISSUE NO 14
4. Forthcoming Events
37. Flatbeare Views
68. Fly Tying with Alan
Find out what's not to miss.
By incomer Ardley Chic.
Getting creative with fur & feather.
8. Live Music Roundup
44. Mistletoe
70. Horse Care - Management
Get the info on local live music!
By Ted Gosling.
Equine advice from Natalie Bucklar.
10. Art Exhibitions
48. Sherlock's Last Case
72. Life Matters
Forthcoming events and art blog.
By regular contributor John Fisher.
Health & wellbeing issues.
16. Xmas in East Devon
50. Tide Timetables
76. Walk on the Wildside
An overview of festive events.
Tide times from Lyme to Exmouth.
Artist Mike Hughes talks wildlife.
18. Fashion and Beauty
52. Exmouth by Air
78. Business Advice
Winter retail therapy for women.
Taking a different view of Exmouth.
Valuable tips from Katina Styles
22. Eating Out Roundup
56. Glorious Cyprus
80. Managing your Money
Places to dine in the region.
Tim Perriman pays a brief visit.
Expert tips from Helen Mulvaney.
26. Pebbles & Flints
64. Tales of a Yokel
By veteran writer Ted Gosling.
Yarns from the inimitable FCR Esgen.
30. Creatively Christmas
66. Real Beer Revival
Home decor by Amanda Crump.
Haydn Mullineux investigates.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
1
Valuations
Curious to know if you have something of value? It could pay to talk to Bonhams. -Insurance and Probate Valuations - Home Visits - Specialist Valuation Days For expert advice or further information about our services please contact: 01392 425 264 exeter@bonhams.com A fine F.H. Ayres painted wooden rocking horse for Harrods, early twentieth century. Consigned in the West Country, sold in London for £4,375. Bonhams The Lodge Southernhay West Exeter, Devon EX1 1JG
International Auctioneers and Valuers - bonhams.com/exeter
Prices shown for sold lots include buyer’s premium. Details can be found at bonhams.com
Merry Christmas and
a Happy New Year
EAST DEVON December 2012/January 2013
Editor's Letter A warm welcome to East Devon Coast and Country magazine. Shopping at this time of year can be hectic, so to give you a hand this year we've included Christmas in East Devon, which consists of as many late night shopping and special festive events as we could fit in! We hope it will help you and your family make the most of the festivities. We're on the lookout for someone to help with our South Devon magazine - do you know someone that's looking for work? If the person you have in mind is self-motivated, outgoing, would like to work from home and has access to a computer and a phone, we are currently looking for a sales person for South Devon Coast & Country magazine. If you are interested, we would love to hear from you. Call Nigel on 01395 513383 We hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Kind regards, Nigel Jones (Editor)
Covering East Devon, Exeter and West Dorset
FREE
Cover photo: N.Jones River Otter 2012 ©
CONTRIBUTORS Nigel Jones, John Fisher, Mike Hughes, Katina Styles, Helen Mulvaney, FCR Esgen, Tony Jackson, Natalie BucklarGreen, Jill Cooke.
MAGAZINE Editor and publisher: Nigel Jones tel. 01395 513383 nigel@prestige-media.co.uk
Production: Charlotte Fergie charlotte@prestige-media.co.uk
For advertising call: 01395 513383 or email: nigel@prestige-media.co.uk
otherwise 01395 568025 or email: vivienne@prestige-media.co.uk All images copyright N.Jones unless otherwise credited
East Devon Coast & Country
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A Celebration of Life in East Devon
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CHORISTERS at EXETER CATHEDRAL
THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE at NORTHCOTT
MOSCOW STATE CIRCUS at PRINCESS THEATRE
Forthcoming Events December 2012 & January 2013
Xmas Events CHRISTMAS MARKET ON THE GREEN Until 16 Dec - unique handmade and unusual gifts, decorations and food items, representing the best of what Britain and the South West can offer, Cathedral Green, Exeter, 10am (11am Sundays).
A CHRISTMAS CAROL Until 1 Dec - Lyme Regis Dramatic Society production of this seasonal tale, Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis.
LYME REGIS LIGHTS SWITCHING ON 1 Dec - lights on and lantern parade in Lyme Regis. Contact Lyme R. Tourist Info
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
TOWN BAND XMAS CONCERT
7 Dec - Sidmouth Town Band, Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth, 7.30pm.
15 Dec - at Lyme Regis with licensed bar and raffle.
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
CHRISTMAS FUN
7 Dec - Festive fun, song and snow with late night shopping. Also Ice rink which will carry on until the 8 Dec. Seaton. 4-10pm.
15 and 16 Dec - Carol singers, busking, children’s pottery, crafts, face painting, hair braiding, gifts for sale, at The Town Mill and Town Mill Malthouse, Lyme Regis.
CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL 8 Dec - Honiton, 5.30pm.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT 2012
ROBERT THE RAT'S CHRISTMAS FEAST
23 Dec - at Lyme Regis.
HUB ON THE GREEN’S CAKE & CRAFT FAIR
GREAT WEST SANTA RUN
BACH’S CHRISTMAS ORATORIO
ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
GLOBAL HARMONY CHRISTMAS CONCERT
5 Dec - a celebration of Yuletide Past, featuring long-forgotten festive songs and more, Barnfield Theatre, 7.30pm.
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT BUDLEIGH CHRISTMAS MORNING SWIM 25 Dec - Steamer Steps, Budleigh Salterton, 10am.
EXMOUTH CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM 25 Dec - The Esplanade, 11am.
CHRISTMAS MORNING FANCY DRESS SWIM 25 Dec - in aid of RNLI, Charmouth, 11am.
BOXING DAY SWIM
CAROLS IN THE CATHEDRAL 12 and 13 Dec - Exeter Philharmonic Choir, with Triumph Brass, Exeter Cathedral, 7.30pm.
A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS
22 Dec - Seaton Town Hall, 7.30pm.
9 Dec - 1.25 mile fun run or 5k run, in aid of Dream-A-Way, Exeter. Charges vary. You MUST run in a Santa Suit!
1 Dec - Axminster & District Choral Society, The Minster, Axminster, 7.30pm.
1 Dec - Princess Theatre, 7.30pm.
COURTYARD CAROLS 22 Dec - enjoy hot mince pies and mulled wine as you sing along with the Otterton Church Choir, Otterton Mill, 3pm.
ZZ TOPS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY
Until 2 Dec - an Aladdin’s Cave of wonderful gift ideas and essential Christmas items, Westpoint Arena, 9.30am-5.30pm. 1 Dec - participatory crafts and delicious cakes in the stunning mediaeval hall, 8 Cathedral Green, Exeter, 10.30am-4.30pm.
CAROLS AROUND THE TREE 21 Dec - at The Shambles, Broad Street, Lyme Regis. Organised by the Rotry Club. 7pm.
8 Dec - with music by Schubert and Haydn, Ottery St Mary Choral Society, Parish Church, Ottery St Mary, 7.30pm. 8 Dec - Robert the Rat will help you make some tasty Christmas treats and evergreen decorations. Do wear clothes that can get dirty. St Nicholas Priory, Exeter. Adults £3.30, Children £1.50. Starts 10.30am or 1.30pm. Drop-in.
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR
wine as you sing along with the Otterton Church Choir, Otterton Mill, 3pm.
15 Dec - an uplifting Christmas concert by this 50-strong community choir, with all collections going to the charity Water Aid, 12.45pm.
CHRISTMAS CHORAL CONCERT
CANDLELIGHT 2012
15 Dec - The Cathedral Choir, Exeter Cathedral, 7.30pm.
7 Dec - Candlelight Evening and Carol Service, Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, 3.30-6pm.
15 Dec - Seaton Town Hall, 7.30pm.
26 Dec - Sidmouth, 11am.
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 18 to 22 Dec - spectacular display of Christmas trees decorated by Lyme Regis organisations, Baptist Church, Lyme Regis.
CHRISTMAS MUSIC PROGRAMME 19 Dec - with music by Handel and Finzi, Seaton Choral Society, Methodist Church, Seaton.
FESTIVE FUN AND CHRISTMAS CHEER 20 Dec - Exeter Race Course, 12.50-5pm.
CHRISTMAS CABARET,
CAROLS AROUND THE TREE
MAIN EVENTS SOUTH WEST CHRISTMAS EQUINE FAIR 8 to 9 Dec - Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 9am6pm (5pm Sun).
THE GUILD OF CHEESEMAKERS 8 to 9 Dec - taste artisan cheeses, taste wine and question the future of humanity in this multi-sensory cabaret, Northcott Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
21 Dec - enjoy hot mince pies and mulled
East Devon Coast & Country
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December 2012 & January 2013
Forthcoming Events EXETER CITY V OXFORD UNITED
RAT PACK BOYS BAND NEW YEAR'S BALL
26 Dec - League Two Boxing Day match, St James’s Park, Exeter, 3pm.
31 Dec - a glass of bubbly, buffet supper and entertainment from The Fabulous Rat Pack Boys Band, The Gateway, Seaton Town Hall.
EXETER CHIEFS V BATH 29 Dec - Aviva premiership rugby, Sandy Gate, Exeter.
THE LYME LUNGE
1 Jan - Exeter Race Course.
1 Jan - join the fancy-dress “Lungers” plunging into the balmy waters of Lyme Bay or just enjoy the party atmosphere on the beach, The Sand Bar, Lyme Regis, 1pm.
EXETER CHIEFS V NORTHAMPTON SAINTS
CERAMICS DEMONSTRATION
NEW YEAR’S DAY RACING
5 Jan - Aviva premiership rugby, Sandy Gate, Exeter.
DOLLS HOUSE & MINIATURE FAIR 6 Jan - Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 10am-4pm.
CRAFT 4 CRAFTERS 24 to 26 Jan - Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 10am-5pm.
EXETER CITY V TORQUAY UNITED 26 Jan - local League Two derby at St James’s Park Exeter, 3pm.
LOCAL EVENTS AONB 50TH ANNIVERSARY WRITING COMPETITION A ’golden’ opportunity awaits the region’s aspiring writers within the next few months. 2013 marks the 50th anniversary of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and as part of the celebrations they are running a writing competition themed ‘Life and Landscape’. The only criteria are that the work should include a specific identified location within the East Devon AONB and the piece is original and unpublished. Details can be found on www. eastdevonaonb.org.uk. Get writing...!
EAST DEVON WRITERS' WORKSHOP Second Weds - Salem Chapel, Budleigh Salterton, 2-4pm.
INTRODUCTION TO BIRD-WATCHING ON THE EXE ESTUARY 1 Dec - ornithologist Nigel Pinhorn helps with bird identification, behaviour and ecolosgy on a walk starting from À la Ronde, Exmouth,12.30-3.30pm.
22 Jan - gifted sculptural potter Amanda Popham demonstrates her craft, Lyme Regis Art Society, Woodmead Hall, Lyme Regis, 2-4pm.
RSPB FULL AVOCET CRUISE ON THE EXE ESTUARY 25 Jan - RSPB guides give expert commentary during this 3-to-4 hour cruise on one of nature’s most beautiful wetlands, Topsham, 11.30am.
RSPB FULL AVOCET CRUISE ON THE EXE ESTUARY 26 Jan - RSPB guides give expert commentary during this 3-to-4 hour cruise on one of nature’s most beautiful wetlands, Topsham, 12.15pm.
Comedy RAW COMEDY Fortnightly (Saturdays) - an evening packed with laughter and raw talent from local and national stand-ups alike, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 7pm.
LEE NELSON...LIVE! 2 Dec - Lee Nelson on his second stand-up tour brings you a night of jokes, banter and games, Corn Exchange, Exeter, 7.30pm.
VARIETY BY THE SEA FROM SLIGHTLY FAT FEATURES 8 Dec - part Cirque du Soleil, part Monty Python - real laugh out loud entertainment, Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth, 7.30pm.
EXETER COMEDY CLUB CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 12 to 14 Dec- Mark Olver, Suzi Ruffell, Jasper Blakeley, Ivo Graham, Tony Law, Adam Vincent (16+ only), Corn Exchange, Exeter.
ROMANCE AND ADVENTURE TOUR 13 Dec - Josie Long, one of the most exciting female comics around, Exeter Phoenix, 8pm.
PEACOCK & GAMBLE
Festivals
20 Jan - Don’t Want To Be On The Telly Anyway show from everybody’s favourite comedy nice boys, Exeter Phoenix, 8pm.
FROM DEVON WITH LOVE 15 to 26 Jan - 2-week festival showcasing the work of Devon’s emerging theatre makers, The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter.
LAUGH OUT LOUD FESTIVAL 19 Jan to 10 Feb - Exeter’s exciting comedy festival with stand-up, slapstick and open mic, various venues.
WINTER WARMED 29 Jan to 16 Feb - Beckett’s Endgame as centrepiece of three-week drama festival, The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
Theatrical Plays
ANNIE FREUD'S POETRY SLAM
dvertise in this magazine which has over 440 outlets across East Devon from just £59 per issue. Call Nigel on 01395 513383 or Vivienne on 01395 568025 or email: advertise@ prestige-media.co.uk IL CAMPIELLO 7 Dec to 12 Jan - Carlo Goldoni’s charming and observant comedy of everyday life, New Theatre, Exeter.
THE LAST MARCH 20 Dec to 12 Jan - the thrilling, chilling tale of great British polar hero Captain Scott, The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
SHERLOCK HOLMES...THE DEATH & LIFE 21 Dec - Roger Llewellyn, a wryly humorous and spine-tingling new one-man play, Northcott Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
DIRTY DANCING 22 Jan - 9 Feb - Dirty Dancing is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensationally sexy dancing. Theatre Royal, Plymouth.
MEDEA BY EURIPIDES Until 1 Dec - Mike Bartlett's new and startlingly modern version of this classic tragedy of a woman's reaction to her husband's infidelity, Northcott Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
THE CANTERBURY TALES 5 to 6 Dec - an explosion of live music, storytelling, and general mischief in this reworking of Chaucer’s classic poem, Northcott Theatre, 7.30pm.
Tribute Bands BUDDY HOLLY AND THE CRICKETERS 2 Dec - Holly at Christmas, packed full of classic Buddy Holly hits and 50's to 60's hits Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm.
ELO EXPERIENCE 3 Dec - top tribute to the Electric Light Orchestra, Princess Theatre, Torquay, 7.30pm.
Classical
BOAT LAUNCH DAY 5 Dec - a whole range of boats from traditional clinkers to rowing wherries, www. boatbuildingacademy.com/, Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis, 2pm.
A
Conc erts Visit the reindeer at Cotley Farm, Whimple (see Christmas pages)
BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 3 Jan - gala of Viennese music, Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm.
CLARINET, CELLO, PIANO RECITAL
12 Jan - Acclaimed poets Tim Cumming, Tammy Yoseloff, Bethany Pope and Annie Freud read and discuss their work. Phone 01308 459511 to book your table now Tickets: £5, Sladers Yard, Westbay, Dorset.
6 Dec - Seaton Music, Seaton Town Hall, £12.50. 7.30 pm
POULENC 50TH ANNIVERSARY 17 Jan - Seaton Music presents Jacqueline White, soprano, and Clive Matthews, piano, in a concert to mark the 50th anniversary of the composer’s death, Seaton Town Hall, 7.30pm.
AUTUMN CONCERT 15 Dec - Sidmouth Choral Society, Parish Church, Sidmouth.
GUIDED BIRD-WATCHING TRIP
BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
28 Dec - with Donald Campbell, Seaton Tram, 9-11am.
24 Jan - celebrating its 120th birthday year, an evening of outstanding classical music with soloist Johannes Moser, Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm.
FESTIVE SEASON BALL 29 Dec - with the Dancing Duo, Henry & Jeannie Clark, The Pavilion, Exmouth, 8-11pm.
THE NORDIC ENSEMBLE
THE NEW YEAR’S EVE BALLYHOO BALL
31 Jan - Seaton Music, Seaton Town Hall, 7.30pm.
31 Dec - dress to impress for a red carpet night with live performances and DJs in three rooms, Exeter Castle, 8pm.
CONTINUED OVERLEAF
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
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December 2012 & January 2013
Forthcoming Events FARMERS &
Country Markets
Collectors FLEA MARKET
Rolle Mews Car Park, last Friday, 9am-1pm.
Thursdays, Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton, 10am-1pm.
EXETER FARMERS' MARKET
TOPSHAM MARKET
BUDLEIGH SALTERTON FARMERS' MARKET
Do you have family or friends wanting to stay? No Room to put them up? Why not recommend one of our modern and extremely comfortable single storey self-catering holiday cottages.
Open all year round
Top of Fore Street/South Street, Thursday, 9am-2pm.
EXMINSTER MARKET First Saturday every month, 9.30am-12.30pm.
EXMOUTH FARMERS' MARKET The Strand Gardens, Exmouth, alternate Wednesdays, 9am-1pm.
Including Christmas and New Year
www.alpineparkcottages.co.uk | 01395 233619
HONITON LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET
Exmouth Road | Aylesbeare | Exeter | Devon | EX5 2LF
HONITON WOMEN'S GUILD COUNTRY MARKET
High Street, third Thursday, Easter to October.
Mackarness Hall, Friday, 9.30-11am.
Opera LA CLEMENZA DI TITO 1 Dec - New York Met Opera performance beamed to HD screen at Picturehouse Cinema, Exeter, 5.55pm.
UN BALLO IN MASCHERA 8 Dec - New York Met Opera performance beamed live to cinema screens around the world, Picturehouse Cinema, Exeter, 5.55pm.
AIDA 15 Dec - New York Met Opera’s unforgettable production beamed live to Picturehouse Cinema, Exeter, 5.55pm.
LA BOHEME
Theatre, Lyme Regis, 10.30am and 7.30pm.
DICK WHITTINGTON 12 Dec - with special guest Buddy Bear, affordable professional pantomime, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 10am, 2pm, 7pm.
THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE
CINDERELLA
SIDMOUTH COMMUNITY MARKET
14 to 24 Dec and 26 Dec to 6 Jan - lots of fun, frolics and laughter, Princess Theatre, Torquay, 2pm, 7pm (check times)
SEATON FARMERS' MARKET
15 Dec to 6 Jan - Corn Exchange, Exeter.
SLEEPING BEAUTY
THE NUTCRACKER
MERGE 6 TOUCHED 18 and 19 Jan - SpinDrift Dance Company TrashDollys with contemporary works in dance, film, and physical theatre inspired by touch, New Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
THE EMPEROR’S PERFUME
Childrens' Entertainment MOTHER GOOSE 1 to 5 Dec - The Police and Hospital Players with their fun-filled pantomime, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.
8 Dec - St John's Hall, Sidmouth, 9.30am-1pm. 21 Dec - Seaton Town Hall, 9am-1pm.
MARKET DAYS AXMINSTER STREET MARKET Trinity Square, Thursday, 8.30am-3pm.
CULLOMPTON INDOOR MARKET
21 Dec to 5 Jan - the famous Christmas pantomime, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter.
Town Hall, Wednesday, 9am-1pm.
SLEEPING BEAUTY
EXETER LIVESTOCK AND PANNIER MARKET
21 to 23 and 27 to 30 Dec - Exeter Little Theatre Company, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, various times (2pm/7pm).
Exeter Livestock Centre, Monday and Friday, 10.30am.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Every Tuesday and Saturday, 9am.
28 Dec to 5 Jan - a pantomime by Ron Hall, Sidmouth Amateur Dramatic Society, Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth.
CHRISTMAS MARKET
Escot Park ARTISTS EXHIBITING Until 31 Dec - In the Coach House Restaurant.
LA BAYADERE 27 Jan - Bolshoi Ballet performance beamed live, Picture House, Cinema, Exeter, 3pm.
STOCKLAND COUNTRY MARKET
ALADDIN - THE MAGICAL PANTOMIME
MARIA STUARDA
16 Dec - Bolshoi Ballet performance captured live December 2010, Picture House Cinema, Exeter, 4pm.
OTTERY ST MARY COMMUNITY MARKET The Institute, Ottery St Mary, last Saturday, 9.30am-12.30pm. Last Saturday, Stockland Victory Hall, 10am12 noon.
17 Dec to 5 Jan - family winter show by Quirk Theatre, Exeter Phoenix.
Ballet
Land of Canaan Car Park, first Friday, 9am1pm.
12 to 24 and 26 to 30 Dec - imaginative storytelling, lots of laughs, fantastic new music live on stage from Tall Stories Theatre Company, Northcott Theatre, Exeter.
15 Jan - Royal Opera House performance beamed live, Picture House Cinema, Exeter, 7.15pm. 19 Jan - New York Met’s performance of Donizetti’s tragic opera beamed to Picture House Cinema, Exeter, 5.55pm.
OTTERY ST MARY FARMERS' MARKET
Killerton
HONITON STREET MARKET
Until 2 Dec, Town Mill Malthouse, Lyme Regis.
Saturdays, Matthews Hall, Topsham, 8.30am-1pm.
FLEA MARKET 8 Dec - The Livestock Centre, Exeter, 7.30am-2pm.
INNOVATIONS MARKET Until 9 Dec - with products to suit all ages and tastes from silver jewellery to handmade pizzas, Guildhall Shopping Centre, Exeter, 9am-5pm (Sunday 10am4pm).
A La Ronde BIRDWATCHING ON THE EXE ESTUARY 1st Dec - Learn to identify the birds of the Exe Estuary. £6 per person. Booking essential. A la Ronde. 12.30-3.30pm.
EXHIBITIONS EXPRESS & ECHO LOCAL ART SHOW Until 5 Dec - showcasing the work of a local art society, Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter.
EMMA MACFADYEN Until 8 Dec - Bronze animal sculptures, Erin Cox Jewellery, Exeter.
WARRIORS OF THE PLAINS Until 13 Jan - exhibition exploring the world of Native North American warfare and ritual through the material culture of Plains Indians, Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter, 10am-5pm.
CHRISTMAS ART AND CRAFT EXHIBITION 8 Dec to 2 Jan - Christmas affordable art and craft exhibition and sale, Upper and Lower galleries, Town Mill, Lyme Regis.
PETAL POWER 15 Dec to 10 Mar - The hand drawn and painted texile design work of women employed by the Silver Studio of Design in London between 1910 and 1940. Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter.
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Whilst in town, enjoy a FREE
Red Coat Guided Tour Ghosts & Legends Heart of Exeter Cathedral to Quay Exeter Old & New
CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING 1 to 3 Dec - learn how to make Christmas wreaths, 10.30am-12.30pm, 2-4pm.
CHRISTMAS HARP CONCERT 7 Dec - Elizabeth Jane Baldrey, Music Room.
t: 01392 265203
FATHER CHRISTMAS VISITS KILLERTON
POTTED PANTO
8, 5, 22 Dec - a Victorian Father Christmas clad in green, 2-3.30pm.
11 Dec - eight classic pantomimes in 80 minutes by just two actors, on tour prior to third West End Christmas season, Marine
15 Dec - Jubilee Singers, Music Room, 7-9pm.
AN EVENING OF CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Daily tours except 25 & 26 Dec
www.exeter.gov.uk/guidedtours
East Devon Coast & Country
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ARE YOU RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR CLUB / CHARITY /ORG's EVENT PROMOTION? CALL 01395 513383 TO GET ADDED TO OUR EVENTS LIST.
St. Peter’s School…
the Gift of Opportunity
• Early Years Funding Options • Daily Buses from Surrounding Areas • Small Class Sizes • Weekly and Flexi Boarding Options • Exceptional success rate for Senior School Scholarships EMO The Old Rectory, Vicarage Lane, Highworth, Wiltshire SN6 7AD 01793 767300 001882_91x133_RREPoweP r resence_Red_Bespoke_Mag_Matford Client:
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RANGE ROVER EVOQUE THE POWER OF PRESENCE
www.matford.landrover.co.uk Drive responsibly on and off-road.
RANGE OF FUEL ECONOMY FIGURES FOR THE RANGE ROVER EVOQUE RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 23.7 (11.9) – 47.9 (5.9) EXTRA URBAN 40.9 (6.9) – 62.8 (4.5) COMBINED 32.5 (8.7) – 57.6 (4.9) CO2 EMISSIONS 199 – 129 G/KM. A Celebration of Life in East Devon
7
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS Suns - Easy Sundays with Phil Evans, Axminster Inn, Axminster, 12.30pm. First Fri - Matthew Finnish, cover songs and originals, The Pilot Inn, Exmouth, 9-11pm. 1 Dec - The Lateshift, after the Exeter Chiefs match, Sandy Park, Exeter, 4.45pm. 1 Dec - Joey The Lips, Mama Stone's, Exeter, 9pm.
26 Jan - Joey The Lips, funky soul, blues, disco revue act, The Gateway, Seaton, 7.30-11.30pm.
JAZZ First Wednesday - Bridge Jazz Club, www.bridgejazzclub.com for venue, Exeter, 8.30pm.
1 Dec - Turnette Doone, 60s covers to today, Half Moon, Exeter, 9-11.30pm.
Third Thurs - City Steam Jazz Band, The Northbridge Inn, Exeter, 8.3011pm.
1 Dec - Wired, 5-piece rock/pop function band, Prospect Inn, Exeter, 9.30-11.45pm.
Last Sun - High Tea Jazz, with Pete Allen, Lakeview Manor, Dunkeswell, 5-7.30pm.
2 Dec - The Lateshift, catch this popular band at The First and Last, Exmouth, 6pm.
Until 2 Dec - Jazz At The Bedford, featuring five popular jazz bands, including local group Take4, Bedford Hotel, Sidmouth.
2 Dec - Flamenco Night, El Bocado, Exeter. 7 Dec - Spanish Guitar Night, El Bocado, Exeter. 7 Dec - Monika, pop/rock covers, Prospect Inn, Exeter, 9-12 midnight. 7 Dec - Funkty Dumpty, funk/soul/ disco/pop, Mama Stone’s, Exeter, 10pm-1am. 8 Dec - The Woody Guthrie Show, Exeter Phoenix, 8pm. 14 Dec - Dave Rich, The Swan Inn, Lympstone, 9pm. 14 Dec - Thick As Thieves, pop anthems band, Prospect Inn, Exeter, 9-11.30pm. 17 Dec - Christmas Rave: Project EDM, the best electronic dance music going, Cavern Club, Exeter, 8pm. 21 Dec - Evolver, pop/rock, The Thirsty Farmer, Whimple, 9pm. 22 Dec - Eventine, covers, Mama Stone’s, Exeter, 9pm-1am. 22 Dec - The Covers Brothers, The Globe Inn, Lympstone, 9-11.30pm. 23 Dec - The Chicken Slacks, The Bank Pub, Exmouth, 3-5.30pm. 31 Dec - Spaced Invaders, 80s covers band, Prospect Inn, Exeter, 9pm. 5 Jan - Wired, entertaining after a stonkin’ match, Sandy Gate, Exeter, 5.45-7.30pm. 12 Jan - Eventine, Mama Stone’s, Exeter. 12 Jan - Kiss This!, the ultimate 80s party band, Heart of Oak, Exeter. 19 Jan - Hot Candy, pop covers band, The Queen’s Head Hotel, Exeter, 9pm.
DECEMBER 12 & JANUARY 13
7 Dec - Hamer & Isaac’s Gypsy Swing Band, The Grapevine, Exmouth, 10pm. 8 Dec - Christmas Jazz At The Cathedral, Duke Ellington Sacred Concert with Jacqui Dankworth, Andy Williamson and Big Buzzard Boogie Band, Exeter Cathedral, 7.30pm. 9 Dec - Jazz in The Afternoon, Pete Allen and his Traditional Jazz Seven, Kennaway House, Sidmouth, 3-5.30pm. 14 Dec - Festive Fiesta with Clare Teal, talented jazz vocalist/songwriter, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm. 23 Dec - Just Misbehavin’, swing jazz in the afternoon, The Grove, Exmouth, 2-4pm. 24 Dec - Take4, cool jazz with a touch of class for this Christmas Eve party, The Bowd Inn, Sidmouth, 8-11pm. 31 Dec - Pete Allen, New Year’s Eve party, Kennaway House, Sidmouth, 7pm-1am. 31 Dec - Take4, cool jazz with a touch of class on New Year’s Eve, The Bowd Inn, Sidmouth, 8-11pm. 1 Jan - Just Misbehavin’, swing jazz, The Grove, Exmouth, 2-4pm. 13 Jan - Pete Allen, the jazz maestro’s solo show, Kennaway House, Sidmouth, 3pm.
FOLK ROOTS & ACOUSTIC Mons - The Amycrofters, Folk Dance Band, Offwell Village Hall, 8-10.15pm. Thurs - Alan West & Steve Black, Axminster Inn, Axminster, 6.30-9pm. Sats - South West acoustic acts, live
photo courtesy of Florence and The Machine
GENERAL
Live Music
19 Jan - Skool Daze,pop/rock band, The Prospect Inn, Exeter, 9-11.30pm.
Tuesday 4 December, Westpoint Arena, 7pm,
FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE www.florenceandthemachine.net
Florence Welch with her powerful act Florence and The Machine play Westpoint in December. In 2009, she took the world by storm with her debut album Lungs, which scooped the MasterCard British Album Award at the 2010 BRITS. Her music of love and death, time and pain, heaven and hell is described as a mix of classic soul and midnight-on-the-moors English rock. “...my music is something overwhelming and all-encompassing that fills you up,” she says, “and you’re either going to explode with it, or you’re just going to disappear.” Support comes from Haim, the American three-sister band that can switch from instrument to instrument with consummate skill. So, what an evening in store at this standing-only event (space reserved for wheelchairs). Tickets: £29.50, plus booking fee, from Ticketzone Tel: 08444 99 99 55 www.ticketzone.co.uk www.westpointarena.com.
and unplugged, The Real McCoy Cafe Bar, Fore Street, Exeter, 2pm. Suns (unless Guest Night) - Singers' Night, Topsham Folk Club, The Globe Hotel, Topsham, 8-10.30pm.
27 Jan - Vin Garbutt, Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham, 8pm.
BLUES
First Fri. - Open Mic Night, Dolphin Hotel, Beer, 9-11pm.
2 Dec - Adam Sweet, rock/blues solo, The Bank, Exmouth, 9pm.
Third and fifth Tues - Exmouth Folk Club, Manor Hotel, Exmouth, 8.15pm. Third Wed - Singers' Night, Jurassic Folk Club, Grove Nite Club, Seaton, 7.45pm.
4 Dec - Florence and The Machine & Haim, one-woman force of bluesy rock + the 3-sister band that can switch from instrument to instrument with consummate skill, Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 7pm.
4 Dec - Live Acoustic Music, with Matt Pocock & Friends, Exeter Phoenix, 9pm.
13 Dec - The Gadge Band, acoustic covers, Mama Stone’s, Exeter, 1011.30pm.
5 Dec - Thrill Collins, Grove Nite Club, Seaton, 7.45.pm.
15 Dec - Souled Live!, The Sorry Head, Exeter, 9pm.
14 Dec - Celine Dos Santos, Hatt’s Bar & Restaurant, Exeter.
28 Dec - Flipron, The Grapevine, Exmouth, 9-11pm.
30 Dec - Feeling Acoustic, The Bank Pub, Exmouth, 3-5pm.
26 Jan - P R Dewhurst, solo artist, The Yarcombe Inn, Yarcombe, 9-11pm.
East Devon Coast & Country
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Richard Williams, Vocals, Bristol Reggae Orchestra copyright: Duchess Photographic
Saturday 22 December, 9pm
THE COVERS BROTHERS, THE GLOBE INN, LYMPSTONE
photo courtesy of: The Covers Brothers
Disclaimer - you are advised that before attending any of the events listed in the "Forthcoming Events" and 'Live Music Roundup' section of this magazine, you should contact the venue in advance to double check that the dates and times are correct.
Saturday 22 December, 7.30pm
The Covers Brothers will steal you back to the golden age of popular music. An electro-acoustic rock and pop 4-piece band, they specialise in the classic tracks from the 50s through to the 80s and beyond, providing music for hotels, clubs, restaurants and all social occasions. Their versatile approach can give you a mellow ambient sound for bars and restaurants or a full-on electric line-up for weddings, hotel functions and and corporate events. They are always happy to adapt their sound and set-up to suit your event, and as they also have their own PA, lights, PAT-tested equipment and PLI cover, you can book them with complete peace of mind. And to see what they are like, get along to The Globe Inn at Lympstone the Saturday before Christmas. www.thecoversbrothers.co.uk Email: chrisjperkins@sky.com Tel: 01803 522972 The Globe Inn, The Strand, Lympstone EX8 5EY Tel: 01395 263166.
BRISTOL REGGAE ORCHESTRA MARINE THEATRE, LYME REGIS
Mondays, 8-10pm (September-July)
www.bristolreggaeorchestra.com/introducing The Bristol Reggae Orchestra, a collective of 40 musicians from the heart of St Paul’s, started in 2010 as a unique community project. It has so inspired and enthused its members that the orchestra is now enjoying huge success around the South West - at local festivals and concerts and on its home patch in Bristol. Playing reggae, ska, jazz and classical, the BRO turn in toe-tapping crowd-pleasing performances of world music with such verve that this orchestra is “one to watch”. You’ll love the commanding solos and get hooked on the infectious beat and if you get along to the Marine Theatre on 22 December, you can kick-start seasonal festivities and have yourself a reggae-reggae Christmas. Tickets: £12 Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA Tel: 01297 442138 www.marinetheatre.com
IF YOUR VENUE HAS LIVE MUSIC, get added to our events by emailing: jill@prestige-media.co.uk
AMYCROFTERS FOLK DANCE BAND, HONITON FOLK DANCE CLUB www.amycrofters.co.uk The Amycrofters are the Folk Dance, Barn Dance and Ceilidh Dance Band in Devon, providing the liveliest, best presented, dances and concerts in the South West. The lively band is the brainchild of husbandand-wife duo Andrew and June Mycroft. They make for a perfect blend - Andrew on accordion has much experience in folk dance and calling while June complements photo courtesy of: The Amycrofters with her finesse on keyboard, guitar, banjo, and banjolele. So they produce lively foot-tapping music that always gives rise to smiles and impromptu dance steps. Together they run the Honiton Folk Dance Club, which meets every Monday evening (except August) at Offwell Village Hall. Honiton Folk Dance Club Offwell Village Hall, Honiton EX14 9SE. Tel: 01404 46451
FEATURED VENUE ROCK/H-METAL 1 Dec - Thin Lizzie, the legendary rockers are back in town, The Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm. 1 Dec - Reckless, Exeter’s own rock covers band, The Ship & Pelican, Exeter, 9pm. 31 Dec - Electric Landlady, The Black Horse, Sidmouth, 9.30pm12.30am. 5 Jan - K2, Devon’s premier classic rock covers band, The King’s Arms, Exeter, 9.30pm. 12 Jan - 4 Rock’s Sake, The Fountain Head, Branscombe. 31 Jan - Funeral For A Friend, with Such Gold + Daytrader + I Divide, Cavern Club, Exeter, 7.30pm.
Kennaway House "Sidmouth's Centre for The Arts"
Kennaway House, Grade II Regency mansion in the heart of Sidmouth, is a lively centre for Music and the Arts. Built in 1805 and formerly known as Church House, the property had fallen into disrepair and underwent a £1,000,000 restoration in 2008/2009. It now offers exhibition space on the gracious Regency floor, hosts educational courses, literary talks, and meetings; and is fast-becoming a soughtafter wedding venue. The atmospheric Cellar Bar, which can accommodate 80, is drawing jazz fans from far and wide to the regular performances by jazz musician Pete Allen - bandleader, clarinet maestro, broadcaster, Festival Consultant, and an Honorary Citizen of New Orleans. Pete plays at Sidmouth once or twice a month, on a Friday evening or a Sunday afternoon. See dates opposite and
check websites for details. As his fans will tell you, no one plays jazz quite like Pete. He will be at Kennaway House on New Year's Eve, hosting a party and giving his solo show - clarinet, saxes, and rich mellow vocals - and playing his recordings of the music you've loved from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. His style is to give you happy music for both listening and dancing.
Kennaway House, Sidmouth. EX10 8NG Tel: 01395 515551 www.kennawayhouse.org.uk Email: info@kennawayhouse.org.uk
New Year's Eve Party, 7pm-1am. Tickets: £49.50 (to include welcome drink, Grand Gala Buffet, and entertainment from the incomparable Pete Allen). www.peteallenjazz.com peteallenjazz@tiscali.co.uk Tel: 07899 925194
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
9
Forthcoming Art Exhibitions December 2012 & January 2013
Mariangela Williams - 'Meadow at Lea Ford' - Isca Gallery
GALLERIES DEREK NICE Until 2 Dec - ‘Forms that Float and Fly’ new paintings and sculpture. Sladers Yard. FRANCE (FAIR ET SQUARE) Until 5 Dec - Exhibition by artist Philip Clayton, Lower Gallery, Town Mill, Lyme Regis. PETITE FRANCE OPEN STUDIO Until 5 Dec - By Legassick Studio, Upper Gallery, Town Mill, Lyme Regis. BENEDICT RUBBRA Until 16 Dec - Twelve recent paintings on show, also with a selection of ceramics by Tessa Rubbra, The Art Room, Topsham. CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION Until 22 Dec - Artwave West (see display box)
Anthony Dyson RE - 'St Johns Smith Square' - The Marle Gallery
25.12 Until 22 Dec - Paintings measuring a seasonal figure from gallery artists, Hybrid, Honiton. PRESENT MAKERS 2012 Until 22 Dec - Selected South West Designer makers, Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Honiton. MAKE - CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS Until 31 Dec - 50 of the best UK contemporary craft makers present work in ceramics, jewellery and textiles. Devon Guild of Craftsmen. THE MARLE PRINT SHOW Until 26 Jan - A diverse selection of print makers including Peter Freeth RA, Vicky Oldfield, Anthony Dyson RE and more. The Marle Gallery, Axminster. NEW GENERATION Dec - Brook Gallery is delighted to be welcoming Sir Peter Blake to launch a solo exhibition of his work - Budleigh Salterton. See display box.
TheMarleGallery contemporary fine art & ceramics Open Tues - Sat 10.30 - 5.00
Sun 2.00 - 4.30
www.brookgallery.co.uk
01395 443003
EXHIBITIONS Coming in December....
New Generation
Brook Gallery is delighted to be welcoming Sir Peter Blake to launch a solo exhibition of his work. Call 01395 443003 for the date of this major South West exhibition.
Robert Bevan (1865-1925) - 'Devonshire Valley No. 1' - RAMM
CHRISTMAS SELECTION Dec and Jan - Showing new works by John Hammond, Mike Bernard, Ann Blockley, Charlie O'Sullivan, Emma Rimer. Also Shirley Trevena RI. Marine House at Beer. CONNECTIONS 1 to 2 Dec - Studio Gallery Christmas Exhibition. Paintings by Ray Balkwill and Pottery by John Harlow. Exhibition continues throughout December, but strictly by appointment only. Marley Road, Exmouth. WINTER SHOW From 1 Dec - Showing Julian Bailey, Angela Charles, Stewart Jones, Alex Lowery, Howard Phipps, Simon Quadrat, Alfred Stockham: Paintings and Woodcuts. Petter Southall furniture. Top quality craft and accessories. Sladers Yard, Bridport. FINE ART COLLECTION 1 Dec to 30 Mar 2013 - The exhibition will include city views, 20th century Devon landscapes and striking portraits.
Revealing Exeter before the bombings of the second World War changed the city forever. Gallery 5, RAMM, Exeter. ARTOGRAPHY 3 Dec to 5 Jan - This exhibition is “influenced by the south west wind and the colour of cow dung in the morning light; therefore it is just something different" The Axminster Arts Café, The Old Courthouse. CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 7 Dec to 6 Jan - A mixed exhibition showing a varied collection from several West Country artists. East Devon Art, Sidmouth. CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 8 to 22 Dec - Isca Gallery, Budleigh Salterton (see display box). GROUP SHOW 8 Dec to Feb 2013 - Works on Paper. Sladers Yard.
hybrid art & design for your home and garden
EXHIBITIONS The Marle Print Show
Until 26 Jan 2013 A diverse selection of print makers including Peter Freeth RA, Vicky Oldfield, Anthony Dyson RE, Anne Desmet RA and Hilary Paynter. Joining them will be some of our favourite ceramicists.
Victoria Place, Axminster, Devon, EX13 5NQ art@themarlegallery.co.uk 01297 639970 www.themarlegallery.co.uk
51 High Street Honiton 51 High Street Honiton t. 01404 43201 t. 01404 43201 www.hybrid-devon.co.uk www.hybrid-devon.co.uk
25.12 Until 22 Dec Paintings measuring a seasonal figure from gallery artists. Including Richard Adams, Irene Jones and Rachel Ross and introducing Lee Madgwick.
East Devon Coast & Country
01404 45006
Present Makers 2012 Until 22 Dec Selected Southwest designer makers. Thelma Hulbert 2-18 Jan 2013
Permanent exhibition of the late Thelma Hulbert.
Animated Exeter 19 Jan-3 Mar 2013
Annual tie-in with the Animated Exeter Festival. www.thelmahulbert.com
Art Galleries
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Emma Rimer - 'Lemon Grass' - Marine House at Beer Ray Balkwill SWAc - 'Sunset on the Exe'
ART AUCTION Jan and Feb - An auction to support the work of Devon Insight. Sponsored by The Art Room and administered by Bearns, Hampton and Littlewood. The Art Room. THELMA HULBERT 2 to 18 Jan - Permanent exhibition by Thelma Hulbert of the Euston Road School. Thelma Hulbert Gallery.
Catherine Osbond - East Devon Art
ANIMATED EXETER FESTIVAL 19 Jan to 2 Mar - Annual tie-in with the Animated Exeter Festival. Thelma Hulbert Gallery.
Mary Sumner - Hybrid
South West Art Charity Calendar 2013 South West Art have a charity calendar for sale which showcases the work of a selection of East Devon artists who've featured in the Sidmouth gallery. All proceeds go to two local charities nominated by the artists. Copies can be bought from South West Art, Old Fore Street, Sidmouth - they cost £5.95 Tel 01395 514717 Left - Contribution artist, Ray Balkwill's - 'Autumn Sunshine'
Alex Lowery - 'West Bay' - Sladers Yard
EastDevonArt.co.uk
ISCA
Contemporary British Art, Furniture & Craft. Licensed Café. gallery@sladersyard.co.uk
GALLERY
www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk www.steamgallery.co.uk
Christmas Selection John Hammond: New London scenes. Mike Bernard: South West Harbours. Ann Blockley: New still lifes. Charlie O’Sullivan: New works. Emma Rimer: New meadow scenes. Contact the gallery for a catalogue on: 01297 625257 or 625144 (Steam)
www.iscagallery.co.uk
Old Fore Street, Sidmouth EX10 8LS www.eastdevonart.co.uk 01395 516284 info@eastdevonart.co.uk
CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-4.30pm (Closed Thursday)
01395 444193
WINTER SHOW from 1 Dec
Christmas Exhibition
JULIAN BAILEY, ANGELA CHARLES, STEWART JONES, ALEX LOWERY, HOWARD PHIPPS, SIMON QUADRAT, ALFRED STOCKHAM
Art tuition available throughout the year A selection of work may be viewed on-line at www.eastdevonart.co.uk www.facebook.com/eda.academy
Furniture PETTER SOUTHALL Unique gifts & accessories by leading designer craftspeople Events: Gypsy Fire jazz band Saturday 29 Dec 7.30pm www.sladersyard.co.uk 01308 459511
7 Dec to 6 Jan A mixed exhibition showing a varied collection from several West Country artists.
8 to 22 Dec
3 Chapel Street Budleigh Salterton EX9 6LX
S LADERS Y ARD
Open every day 11am-5pm, including Sunday
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
Art Galleries
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‘Tulips and Pears’ - £850
‘Cymbidium - Ruby Wedding Orchids’ - 18.5” x 14.5” - £1950 ‘Putting Flowers in a Vase’ - £1950
Shirley Trevena, ri
Consummate excellence in still life painting Paintings by still life artist S h i r l e y Tr e v e n a h a v e deservedly established a worldwide reputation. Marine House at Beer are proud to have been selected by her as the gallery exclusively presenting her new works. Currently we have a number of new paintings available and some are illustrated here. ‘Small Sunshine’ - £995
Shirley comments, “My paintings are mainly domestic settings using objects that I have collected over the years for their specific colour and shape. I try to pass on my excitement in the juxtaposition of colour and shape to my viewers. I work slowly, typically taking three weeks to complete a painting. I want
the works to reveal themselves slowly, remain interesting over time and existing beyond that first hit of glorious colour.” Shirley was elected a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours {RI} in 1994 and has won numerous awards with selection at international exhibitions such as the 2011 St Cyr sur Mer Biennale in France. She has produced a number of books including the recently published “Breaking the Rules of Watercolour.”
01297 625257
Fore Street, Beer, Devon EX12 3EF
Her paintings can be seen both at the gallery where their colour and complexity can be best appreciated, as well as on our web site:
www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk 01297 625257
‘Sunset at Rauffet’ - 18”x 20” - £2350
www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk
East Devon Coast & Country
‘Rauffet Window’ - £1950
Art Galleries
12
Both myself (Polly) and Lucinda welcome you to our Art Blog. We have a profound interest and love of art and visual culture, we also believe it should be accessible to as many people as possible. Devon’s beautiful coastline and countryside is an inspirational place for artists and has a truly dynamic art scene, of which we hope to bring you news over the coming months. We’d love to hear from anyone involved with art, if you have anything to say, please email us at: dolbycusdin@gmail.com To find out more about us, visit our blog at http://dolbycusdin.tumblr.com
WE ENVISAGED THE USUAL for Halloween: ridiculous fancy dress outfits, pumpkin carving and dancing the night away to Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ in Timepiece. But no. During that long autumnal day, sat drinking tea at the laptop, a curious email popped into our inbox ‘EXCLUSIVE ONE NIGHT ONLY EXHIBITION’. ‘What’s this?’ we thought, and leaned a little closer... The temporary, blink-and-you-miss-it innovation of “pop-up” culture has swept the nation and finally landed in Devon. Site-specific exhibitions, theatre, dance and film projects are literally popping up all over country in otherwise redundant spaces. On Wednesday 31st October we were tipped off about a pop-up exhibition in a warehouse studio on Manor Road in St. Thomas, and, at 7pm, we arrived to see the exclusive one night only display of two artists work: Adam Graddon and Aaron Leaman. Needless to say we were blown away. Exquisitely slip-cast violins, crabs, apples and pigeons met in surrealist comp ositions, playing on our understanding of the symbolism, signs, superstitions and heritage contained within the objects that surround us. Members of the RAMM, artists from the V&A and solicitors from the city had come together in the rain and made the effort. This is a great opportunity for artists. It is a new affordable platform for exhibiting their work and encourages a much more limitless approach to space. For emerging talent, not yet represented by a gallery, staging a pop-up exhibition is the perfect way to introduce your work to the public, test the water and the perfect opportunity for buyers to snap up a one-off piece, for very little cost. Adam grew up in Devon and has just returned after finishing an MA at the Royal College of Art in Ceramics. He had an entirely new body of work to show and was keen to see the public’s response ‘To be able to test-drive my ideas and get this sort of feedback is absolutely fantastic. The exclusivity of one-night-only is exciting and gives immediacy to the whole event. I am
Art Blog http://dolbycusdin.tumblr.com
Lucinda Cusdin completely blown away by the turn out tonight and would recommend this strategy to any up and coming artist’ Aaron Leaman grew up in Exeter and has just returned from Berlin where he spent a year painting, filming and taking
photographs. He is also a poet and had a cross-section of his work on display at his pop-up; one room became a cinema where his short films were projected while his paintings and poems were curated in harmony with Adam’s ceramic installations. The relationship between the two artists was very interesting. Their work balanced one another perfectly and gave a sense of depth in the sheer diversity of medium and subject matter. ‘After coming back from Berlin I really needed to see all my work in a contemporary space. When you’re on the road making a body of work it’s really difficult to see it objectively. We put the whole event together in five days and had no expectations. The response
Polly Dolby
Ar We’re the official coordinators for EXETER OPEN STUDIOS which we are delivering in Spring 2013 - with a series of exciting pop-up exhibitions and film screenings across the city. Please make contact if you wish to be involved. Tel. 07786 326298 dolbycusdin@gmail.com
the confidence to try out a new idea. The nature of pop-up evokes an air of exclusivity, a secret speakeasy of underground culture where you feel
was really humbling.’ These kind of ad-hoc events are starting to stir up all over the city in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Adam Garrett chose to push the boundaries even further and take his art to the street. One evening after work he crept out at around 21:30 and pasted a series of posters around Exeter, on specific poster boards and columns. The image only called for two A3 sheets wide and four sheets high, maybe a 6th of the surface of the board. He was conscientious not Local artist Adam Garratt with his partner Danny Everton to cover anyone else’s posters and chose the spot good to be in the know. Devon has so which would get less attention from much artistic talent and potential and passers by. ‘No more than 15 hours both artists and buyers in the region after placing my work I found that it are craving for innovation. In the words had more or less of been covered in its entirety by giant florescent yellow club night posters for a thing way into November. One poster covered half of the image at the bottom and posters had been put over other posters at the top. Dejected city took a new meaning.’ Adam demonstrates how thinking outside the box can create unexpected outcomes and that sometimes you just need to take the risk and have
Stewart Crewes (NOSE) with Joanna Lis (RAMM)
Blog
of Susan Jeffers: feel the fear and do it anyway. Try something different and set up a pop-up of your own.
Art Blog
Artists Adam Graddon and Aaron Leaman
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
http://dolbycusdin.tumblr.com
Art Galleries
13
Benedict Rubbra UNTIL 16TH DECEMBER
Benedict Rubbra was born in 1938. He studied first at Christ’s Hospital and then at the Slade School of Fine Art from 1958 until 1960. After a period of ten years teaching in art schools he was able to devote all his time to painting. To facilitate this he built his own studio and gallery, as part of his cottage in the Chiltern Hills, where he held exhibitions of his new work every two years. The success of these exhibitions was augmented by including the work of his wife Tessa, whose Pottery workshop was also an annex to the cottage. The core of Benedict’s work since 1980 has centred on a developing process of making three dimensional structures based on ideas principally drawn from the landscape and architecture of the Italian Renaissance. These structures become the starting point for his paintings. He concluded a parallel and successful career in portraiture in 2001 when he and Tessa moved to Devon. Notable commissions include HRH the Prince of Wales for the Fishmongers’ company, Sir Colin Davis, Lord Hailsham, Lord Simon for BP and Sir Peter Burt for the Bank of Scotland.
Ceramics
Also on show will be a selection of Tessa Rubbra’s decorated bowls.
These twelve recent canvasses weave a pattern through twelve months of the year. A memory is suggested of walks through fields and along the banks of the river Teign. There is a glimpse of Dartmoor and its overwhelming vastness and intimate reflections of our garden, in sun and rain, displaying the colours of summer and ripening autumn fruit.
www.theartroomtopsham.co.uk email: theartroom@eclipse.co.uk 8a The Strand, Topsham, EX3 0JB Open Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday 11am - 5pm
East Devon Coast & Country
ART
THE
His publications are: Painting Children, for the Herbert Press 1993, Benedict Rubbra, paintings 1958-1998, published for his sixtieth birthday retrospective exhibition at the Buckinghamshire Art Gallery and County Museum, and Benedict Rubbra Point of Balance, for Halstar publications in 2008. His paintings can be seen in private and public collections in this country and in Italy.
ROOM Art Galleries
14
A point of view!
Nelson’s Column Charles Kingsley and that little blue pill at Christmas
Verity watching Wales
TALKING OF DEVON STATUES and this being the Christmas season and all, reminds us of that gentlest of old-time reverend Devonians, the preacher, reformer, author, (appropriately enough, of The Water Babies, he being a life-long teetotaller) the immortal Charles Kingsley. Born and raised in the county he travelled widely throughout Devon during the last part if the 19th century but his statue is at Barnstaple of course and with all that good cheer in the offing right now it is probably timely to remind ourselves of one of his more cautionary utterances - delivered on the subject of indigestion.
Photographed by Steve Russell © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd. All rights reserved, DACS 2012
“How many serious family quarrels, marriages out of spite, and alterations of wills, might have been prevented by a gentle dose of blue pill!
Where next for Devon’s very own Verity? WAS DEVON-DWELLING Damien Hirst’s inspiration for the Verity statue at Ilfracombe The French Lieutenant’s Woman? There are striking similarities.
Ilfracombe’s Verity, with no sign of a wedding ring on that particular sword-wielding left hand either. Abandoned by their lovers they are condemned to stare resolutely out to sea in all weathers, thinking who-knows-what about their fate and their futures. Sarah, we know - because John Fowles told us - is contemplating suicide as she faces France, frowning, whilst Verity, alas, may well have her mind set on yet more self-harm as she glowers at the Gower. With Ilfracombe already reporting record out-ofseason sales of chips and ice cream competition from other Devon seaside communities to get their hands on this 25-ton bronze money-spinner must surely become fierce as 2032 approaches, Hirst’s 20-year loan to the town expires and it is time for Verity to cast her metallic gaze elsewhere.
Sarah facing France Both girls seem to have got themselves into what our mothers called ‘trouble’. First Lyme Regis’s Sarah Woodruff, a single woman by all accounts, and now it’s
Although fully clothed, the statue of Sir Francis Drake up on Plymouth Hoe - still keeping a weather eye open for the Spanish - seems to do very nicely for that fair city. So what about giving somewhere else in Devon a look-in on Ilfracombe’s cultural blessing next time it’s up for dibs? The seafronts at Budleigh Salterton or Salcombe might do very nicely for example. CLOUDS ARE US – Read all about the shape of things to come. NELSON’S Parting Shot (further on)
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
CAUTION counsels Kingsley What awful instances of chronic dyspepsia in the characters of Hamlet and Othello! Banish dyspepsia and spirituous liquors from society, and you have no crime, or at least so little that you would not consider it worth mentioning”. So there you have it. Moderation in all things and a re-examination of much of Shakespeare seems to be called for here. ADVICE worth a guinea a box Photo Courtesy Science Museum, London
PHOTO Courtesy Science Museum, London
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fd
Christmas in East Devon
AXMINSTER 01297 34386
COLYTON
Special Events
Special Events
Bach’s Christmas Oratorio 1st Dec - Axminster & District Choral Society, The Minster, Axminster, 7.30pm.
Colyton Christmas Fayre 5th Dec - Stalls around Town. Father Christmas, Raffle, Mulled Wine, Mince Pies, Music, Singing, Dancing. 4:00pm.
Festive Friday 7th Dec - The Rotary Club of Axminster invite you to enjoy Festive Friday, Father Christmas, Lyme Town Band, Majorettes, Punch and Judy, carol singing, mine pies and mulled wine stall, burgers and bangers stall and school stalls. If it is raining/snowing we will go into the Minster Church. Trinity Square Axminster. 5.30pm-7.30pm.
BUDLEIGH SALTERTON 01395 445275
CHRISTMAS TREES
Traditional Christmas Farm Shop Local festive foods, gifts & decorations.
Late Night Shopping
FOR A MAG ICAL CHRISTMA S TREAT COME &V IS OUR BEAU IT TIFUL REINDEER
Late Night Shopping 7th Dec - Christmas Shopping celebration until 9.00pm in Budleigh Salterton. Special Events
Budleigh Christmas Morning Swim 25th Dec - Steamer Steps, Budleigh Salterton, 10am.
A little off the beaten track....
THE GARDEN SHOP For an eclectic range of plants, cards and gift ideas KING STREET, COLYTON, DEVON
EASY PARKING
Tel: 01297 551113
December opening: 9-5.30 Monday to Saturday and 10-4 Sunday
OPENING HOURS: 10am - 6pm every day from 1st Dec - 23rd Dec and 9.00am - 12.00pm on Christmas Eve credit card facilities available. 1 mile from A30 Daisymount Junction nr Ottery St.Mary. Cotley Farm, Whimple, Exeter T: 01404 823193 M: 07779 722421
www.cotleychristmas.co.uk
East Devon Coast & Country
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d
EXETER
OTTERY ST. MARY 01404 813964 Special Events
Special Events
Christmas Market on the Green Until 16th Dec - unique handmade and unusual gifts, decorations and food items, representing the best of what Britain and the South West can offer, Cathedral Green, Exeter, 10am (11am Sundays).
Christmas Concert 2012 8th Dec - with music by Schubert and Haydn, Ottery St Mary Choral Society, Parish Church, Ottery St Mary, 7.30pm.
SEATON 01297 21660
Robert the rat's Christmas feast 8th Dec - Robert the Rat will help you make some tasty Christmas treats and evergreen decorations. Do wear clothes that can get dirty. St Nicholas Priory, Exeter. Adults £3.30, Children £1.50. Starts 10.30am or 1.30pm. Drop-in.
Christmas festival 7th Dec - Festive fun, song and snow with late night shopping. Also Ice rink which will carry on until 8 Dec. Seaton. 4-10pm.
Great West Santa Run 9th Dec - 1.25 mile fun run or 5k run, in aid of Dream-AWay, Exeter. Prices vary. You MUST run in a Santa Suit!
Christmas Music Programme 19th Dec - with music by Handel and Finzi, Seaton Choral Society, Methodist Church, Seaton.
EXMOUTH 01395 222299 Late Night Shopping
Exmouth Christmas Cracker 1st Dec - Medieval magic along Rolle street this year with Christmas Market stalls, entertainment and seasonal delight. Special Events
Exmouth's Annual Great Big Christmas Sing 10th Dec - A magical evening of Christmas music for all ages. Tickets £9 (£5 children aged 11 and under). Exmouth Pavilion. 7.30pm. Exmouth and Lympstone Hospiscare Annual Christmas Concert 10th Dec - The Military Wives Choir, Lympstone Primary School Choir and St David's Singers. Holy Trinity Church, Exmouth.
Special Events
ZZ Tops Annual Christmas Party 22nd Dec christmas - Seaton Town Hall, 7.30pm. east devon 2012_Layout 1 06/11/2012 20:44 Page 1
aspara Spoil someone this Christmas with a gift voucher from Aspara w wide range of treatments including: packages, facials, massage, manicures & pedicures, waxing & tinting w stunning hydra-spa with hydrotherapy pool, steam cabin & sauna
Mike Long Sings Sinatra: A Christmas Special 15th Dec - Tickets £5 each from Exmouth Information Centre. Blackmore Theatre. 7.30pm.
tel: 01395 515120 www.aspara.co.uk
HONITON 01404 43716 Late Night Shopping
SIDMOUTH 01395 516441
Christmas Late Night Shopping 6th Dec - Come visit our late night shopping in Honiton including our Street Market in full festive flow! Open until late. Special Events
Christmas Carolling and Tree Lighting 7th Dec - Sing Christmas carols in St. Paul's Church at 5.30pm, then outside for the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony and more. Christmas Carnival 8th Dec - Honiton, 5.30pm.
LYME REGIS 01297 442138
Late Night Shopping
Late Night Shopping 7th Dec - Buy special and unique gifts for all the family this Christmas, and soak up the wonderful atmosphere. Special Events
Candlelight 2012 7th Dec - Candlelight Evening and Carol Service, Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, 3.30-6pm. Christmas Concert 7th Dec - Sidmouth Town Band, Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth, 7.30pm.
Special Events
TOPSHAM
The Lyme Regis Great Christmas Pudding Race 15th Dec - The race will be open to teams of six who have to dress in Christmas costumes - with an extra challenge. Marine Parade, Lyme Regis. 10.30am-12.30pm. £10 entry fee.
Late Night Shopping
Late Night at Darts Farm 21st Dec - Darts Farm will be open until 8.30pm with plenty of festively Christmas activities.
Christmas Tree Festival 18th-22nd Dec - spectacular display of Christmas trees decorated by Lyme Regis organisations, Baptist Church, Lyme Regis.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
17
Winter
Fabulous Festive Shopping Find the perfect present this Christmas All over East Devon you can find the perfect gift from designer and bespoke clothing to perfume, a spot of beauty therapy or unique handmade jewellery. Take a stroll down your local high street and see what you can find at one of the great local independent shops!
for Him
Hand-crafted Cufflinks £79 by Erin Cox Jewellery
for Her
Bespoke Tanzanite and diamond ring £1167 by Erin Cox Jewellery
Essential Therapies HEALTH & BEAUTY SALON
115 High Street, Sidmouth, Devon, EX10 8LB Tel/Fax: (01395) 578600
Winner of 10th. consecutive Crown Salon Award.
Jacdor for the ideal gift
WOOL
JURASSIC BLENDS
Stockists of: Guinot, Thalgo, Jane Iredale, Nailtiques, Sixtus, Moor Spa, St.Tropez, Australian Organics, Masters Colors, Cosmecology.
from West Dorset & East Devon
Easy Knit Kits, Yarn Hand Woven Bags Cushions Rugs
TRY US FOR SOME INTERESTING CHRISTMAS PRESENT IDEAS
www.jacdorwool.co.uk
OPENING HOURS Tues-Friday: 9am-8pm Sat: 9am-5.30pm
Tel: 01297 631538
Mbl: 07772301665
East Devon Coast & Country
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f
f
Offers a wide selection of fragrances for men & women Including:
• Balmain • Chanel • Dior • Elie Saab • Hermès • Issey Miyake • Jean Paul Gaultier • Jimmy Choo • Kenzo • Paul Smith
Pause Cafe Dress £215 Chapter SIDMOUTH
Perfume - The Perfect Present! Market Place | Sidmouth | EX10 8AR Tel: 01395 515124 | www.fieldsofsidmouth.co.uk
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
19
Winter
Original handmade clothes for ladies size 14 and over.
Fabulous Festive Shopping
For more details or to discuss designing your own beautiful, unique clothing contact Julie: www.overlygorgeous.com (01395) 513209 or (01404) 850768 Open Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am - 4.30pm
Rus s
e ll
St
38 Mill Street, Sidmouth
Mi ll t rk S Yo
High Street
Mill Street
Rd d r Si iverside Ri ve R
St
38 Mill Street, Town Centre, Sidmouth*
NEW STOCK NOW IN! *Overly Gorgeous has now moved to bigger premises at 38 Mill Street, Sidmouth which is wonderful as there is plenty more space and there are plenty more products.
Outstanding marquees for exquisite locations Fred Sabatier Coat £325
Chapter SIDMOUTH
Marquee and equipment hire for weddings and all other events Visit our website and call us today www.soundevents.co.uk - 01392 250679
An exciting wool store in Bridport a gorgeous creative experience
British, local and fairly traded yarns • well-known brands • unusual and unique ranges • beautiful natural fibres, textures and colours • wide and varied range of accessories • knitting and crochet workshops • late night ‘knit night’ • support, help and advice Open Monday - Saturday 9.30am-5pm Late night Tuesday ‘Knit Night’ 5-8pm
Celebrate in Devon
76 South Street • Bridport • Dorset • DT6 3NN t: 01308 455669 e: info@bridportyarn.co.uk www.bridportyarn.co.uk
East Devon Coast & Country
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High Quality Private Dental Care in Relaxed and Friendly Surroundings
A S H B U RY D E N TA L C A R E
www. ashburydentalcare.co.uk/implants Dr Maurice Sims BDS (U.Bham), BSc (Hons) (U.Wales) Dental Surgeon GDC No. 85555
Looking for a permanent solution to
missing teeth?
Loose dentures causing discomfort or simply annoying and embarrassing?
Dr Simon Martin BDS, Dip Imp Dent RCS (Eng) Dental Surgeon & Implantologist GDC No. 67146
Contact us today to book your free short consultation with our expert team and see how we can help you.
01395 444 432
Ashbury Dental Care - 53 East Budleigh Road - Budleigh Salterton - Devon - EX9 6EW
Are you missing one or more teeth? Do you have difficulty eating certain foods or speaking clearly due to tooth loss? Do you suffer from the discomfort of ill-fitting dentures?
If you suffer from any of the above problems, dental implants may provide you with the ideal solution. Dental implants help to support replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth, and can offer many benefits, such as: • Eliminating the need to grind down healthy adjacent teeth as required by traditional crown and bridge procedures. • Help to maintain facial structures and the bone tissue in the jaw. • Eliminate the use of denture adhesives and help to eliminate the discomfort of ill-fitting dentures.
Is it painful? Implant placement is performed gently under local anaesthetic. In most cases there is very little or any discomfort during or after the procedure. We pride ourselves on making it as comfortable as we can, and offer sedation for those who may be a little anxious about the procedure.
Are implants safe? The placement of dental implants should be carefully planned, and is a safe and predictable procedure when carried out by suitably qualified surgeons. At Ashbury Dental Care we prioritise safety and predictability of outcome over any other factors.
* Free initial consultations available during December 2012 & January 2013, subject to availability.
How long can I expect implants to last? Dental implants are an excellent long-term solution. Provided they are well looked after, they can last a lifetime. The crown, bridgework or denture on top may, however, need replacing, due to normal wear and tear during your lifetime, as it would even without implants.
We use implants backed by years of extensive research, clinical documentation and worldwide support
It can be more cost-effective in the long-term to choose the right solution early. For the difference that it can make to your life, dental implants can be great value, allowing you to smile and eat with confidence.
Am I a suitable candidate for implants? Dental implants are a great solution for most people but are dependent on many individual factors. If you would like to find out more about how we can help you - or to discuss dental implants further, why not give us a call on 01395 444 432 to book a FREE initial consultation today.*
Is it expensive? Dental implants can be expensive, but are often less than people expect. At Ashbury Dental Care we use high quality components and implants which have a proven track record.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
A S H B U RY D E N TA L C A R E
www. ashburydentalcare.co.uk/implants
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Service to make you smile
™
The Swan The Strand Lympstone
• Coffee served all day • Pit Stop for Estuary Cycle Path • Cycle racks outside pub • Six excellent Cask Marque Real Ales available • Superb lunchtime and evening menu • Daily Fresh Fish Board Specials • Metres from the waters edge
01395 272644/270403 L
ED
v
www.theswaninn-lympstone.co.uk info@theswaninn-lympstone.co.uk
CURRY NIGHT: Every Wednesday. Selection of authentic curries from £10.95
Restaurant open 7 days a week including Sunday Evenings Lunch 12-2.30/3.00pm weekend, dinner 6.00-9/9.30pm.
PIE NIGHT: Every Thursday. A choice of two pies and dessert for just £11.95
Traditional roasts served Sunday lunch times and evenings For enquiries or to book call 01395 513047 or email: info@befordhotelsidmouth.co.uk www.bedfordhotelsidmouth.co.uk
the
Conservatory Restaurant
Eating Out
W
in East Devon
to East Devon Coast Setting theelcome Bar High & Country's eating out section 'Dine Like Kings' dinner was an overwhelming success which we hope will give you inspiration. On the 13th November, 26 students from Kings School took on the challenge of cooking and all, servingeveryone a meal for 55 enjoys guests at the Monk, taking no After a Salty meal out shortcuts and making everything from scratch in just 6 hours. - it's a real treat. We're so lucky here With the help of Salty Monk staff, 7 courses were cooked and served with in amazing Raising moneywith for chosen charities (The Devon thefinesse. Southwest many lovely Freewheeler and The Baton) with some wonderful items donated; bidding countryside andMoney coastal eateries enjoy!catering surpassed expectations. will also go to the -school’s department and their partner school in Ethiopia.
This inspirational teaching at Kings school needs to be recognised to help lead the raising standards in cookery education across other schools in the area and beyond. Contact Andy or Annette for more details 01395 513174.
Tim and Heather promise a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere at The Five Bells Inn
at the Alexandra Hotel
Lyme’s popular lunchtime venue is now Lyme’s stunning restaurant venue is open for open every evening lunch, brunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
Enjoyaward-winning great food, thoughtful service and Enjoy food, thoughtful service wonderful Bay. and wonderfulviews views across of LymeLyme Bay and the Open everyJurassic eveningCoast. between 7-9pm. Open all day every day.
The Five Bells Inn Clyst Hydon Devon
“Itʼs all very reputation elegant andfor very British. food is, “The Alexandra’s excellent A timeless classic some might say.” ” in our opinion, very well deserved. Quintessentially Magazine Dorset Magazine For reservations please call 01297 442010
For Hotel reservations call 01297 442010 Alexandra and Restaurant,please Pound Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3HZ www.hotelalexandra.co.uk enquiries@hotelalexandra.co.uk Alexandra Hotel and Restaurant, Pound Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3HZ
Join us at the Five Bells for a range of special evenings including a great ‘Cobra and Curry’ offer and our fantastic ‘Medieval Night’, where fancy dress is optional! With a mouth-watering menu using ingredients sourced from local suppliers and a great range of drinks, there’s sure to be something to suit everyone’s taste, Buy One - Try One Offer - a FREE dessert with every main course ordered from our menu!
The Five Bells Inn at Clyst Hydon, Devon EX15 2NT TEL 01884 277288 www.�ivebellsclysthydon.co.uk
East Devon Coast & Country
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Popplefords
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
01395 567181
Open every day for great food and drink
Why not pick Popplefords as your Christmas celebration venue? From 3 course Christmas dinners to parties and functions, Popplefords is a great venue to enjoy the festive season. Please see our website for the Christmas Menus.
Popplefords, Exeter Road, Newton Poppleford, EX10 0DE 01395 567181 - www.popplefords.net A Celebration of Life in East Devon
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Eating Out
in East Devon
Southern Cross ♦ Tea Rooms
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Light Lunches Homemade Cakes Selection of Teas Delightful Tea Garden
01395 568439 High Street, Newton Poppleford Also Guest House
OpEn fOr: Coffees
Lunches Afternooon Tea
Dinner
The Esplanade, Sidmouth, Devon, EX10 8AX Tel: 01395 516367 / 513151 Reservations: 08000 48 17 31 Email: kingswoodanddevoran@hotels-sidmouth.co.uk www.hotels-sidmouth.co.uk Follow us on Twitter@KDHotel
Reservations: 01392 876 123 Tea Rooms Light Lunches Homemade Cakes Selection of Teas Delightful Tea Garden
The Quay Brasserie Q Also Guest House
01395 568439
High Street Newton Poppleford TOPSHAM
T
B
THE QUAY BRASSERIE From Boat Shed to Brasserie, this place has come a long way in four years... The journey began with a vision for great food, enjoyed in stylish surroundings, oozing character both inside and out, at one of the most sought after locations on the waterfront in Devon. You will be greeted with the smell of freshly ground coffee in the morning, enjoy a tasty bowl of steaming moules whilst catching up with friends over lunch or throw a celebratory party on the terrace, with the sunset as your backdrop. Thereʼs something for everyone to enjoy, at any time of day! And the cooking? Just simple food, using the best local ingredients, cooked exceptionally well - how refreshing. Small wonder this cafe-bar, restaurant and jazz lounge is so well loved. Call 01392 876 123 for reservations or visit thequaybrasserie.com The Quay Brasserie, 6 The Quay, The Strand, Topsham EX3 0JB
East Devon Coast & Country
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THE HUNTSMAN INN Freshly prepared locally sourced food
Chocolate makes us smile
So spend a happy day making a variety of delicious chocolates with a professional chocolatier
Voted Devon Life Magazine Dining pub of the Year 2012
Fun Chocolate Courses For All Ages
Lunchtime offer 2 Courses for £12 Christmas Bookings now being taken
You’ll take home at least 30 beautifully wrapped chocolates, (unless you eat them all first).
Please visit the website:
thehuntsmaninn.com for more details. TEL. 01392 272779
HOME DELIVERY SERVICE
For information call Gill at Chocolate Amour: 07717 887442 grantgilli@aol.com www.chocolateamour.co.uk
FREE bottle of wine with takeaway orders over £35
Buy one get one FREE!
The Cinnamon Tree
Premium Quality Indian Cuisine One of the very best Indian restaurants in East Devon! Now taking bookings for Christmas and New Year! Using the best recipes and the finest ingredients, we offer faithful, authentic Indian cuisine. With stylish and comfortable decor and the warm hospitality of our staff, The Cinnamon Tree is the ultimate dining experience.
Sidmouth Harbour Hotel is the perfect setting for an Afternoon Cream Tea which can be enjoyed in our beautiful lounges or on the terrace, with fantastic views across Lyme Bay.
Enjoy a Cream Tea or Full Afternoon Tea and get a second for your friend free! Cream Tea - £5.00 per person Full Afternoon Tea - £15.00 per person To receive this exclusive offer fill in your details below, and hand to a member of the team when ordering. Name: Address:
3 Course Lunch Banquet £11.95 (MON-FRI)
Email:
www.cinnamontree-sidmouth.co.uk
Available throughout December 2012 and January 2013. Table reservations are required for a Full Afternoon Tea.
Tel: (01395) 514190 or 576856 2 Radway Place Sidmouth EX10 8TL
T: 01395 513252 www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk
Open 7 days a week 12pm-2pm and 6pm-11pm
Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, The Westcliff, Manor Road, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 8RU
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
25
Local historian Ted Gosling and Mike Clement look back at Devon's heritage
Pebbles and Flints
Seaton From The Sea 1927 - the seafront must have seemed totally different without the existing concrete wall that obscures the views
A
business that had its beginnings at Axmouth was Pebbles and Flints, and it was owned by a man called Mr Beckan. Its headquarters were in the long building opposite the old Toll cottage, today used by Hectors Motors. Pebbles and Flints started up just after the Second World War and basically picked pebbles from the beach. When they started, the company had two American track vehicles from the Second World War, which were similar to the British Bren gun carriers and were
called ‘Weasels’. They had self employed pickers on the beach, who each had a bucket and a load of hessian sacks. There were at least six kinds of pebble that were picked from the beach, these being cobbles, paint stones, grinders and small pebbles, which were then graded AAs, BBs and CBs. Specialists with small hessian bags collected beryl, jasper, carnelian and garnet for jewellery making. As well as Axmouth beach, which stretched from the edge of the river mouth to Culverhole Point, they also picked at Branscombe beach, and this beach stretched from
the Sea Shanty to Weston. The company had to get permission to pick pebbles from the beaches. In the case of Axmouth beach, this was from the Stedcombe Estate and Axminster Rural Clinton Estates and the Crown Office, which owned the beach from the high to low tide water mark. The extraction licence was issued by Axminster R.D.C. and Clinton Estates. From t he t wo beaches combined Pebbles and Flints were allowed to take away 1,000 ton of pebbles per year. Roy Ha rd i ng wa s t he
East Devon Coast & Country
manager, Ron Knight was foreman, and Mr Marsden was t he accounta nt. Vincent Martyn was also involved, as he was agent for the Stedcombe estate at Axmouth. The pickers would be on the beach, preferably at low tide, then they could pick with the tide, starting at the waters edge and working up the beach as the tide came in. It really depended on what stone was required, and the state of the beach. The sacks were supplied by the West of England sack works at Axminster. There were 1 cwt sacks, which were cut in half and re-stitched as half 26
hundred weight sacks. When picking, it would be two level buckets of the small pebbles per sack, and with the big pebbles it would be one bucket to one sack. What you got paid depended on which pebbles you were picking, some pebbles bringing a better price that others. The Weasels were used for hauling the bags of pebbles off the beaches. At Axmouth the pebbles were hauled straight back from the beach, to the bins at the company headquarters at Axmouth Harbour, beside the railway station. At Branscombe the sacks would be hauled back across the beach and then loaded onto their own lorry at the Shanty. The pebbles were mainly used for industrial processes, a lot being used as a grinding agent
as a scouring agent on the interior of the casks. Te d You ng , f r om Beer, was one of the early drivers of the Weasels. Their first lorry was a Leyland Thorneycroft, driven by Cyril Carslake. The Weasels were replaced by the Ferguson PetrolTVO tractors, which were fitted with double wheels on the rear, for negotiating the pebble beaches of Axmouth and Branscombe. They were also fitted with boxes on the back and front, for carrying the sacks of pebbles, and very often one person used to sit on the front of the bonnet, to add weight to the front of the vehicle as it went
Beer Beach 2nd June 1915 - everything's prim and proper, not an inch of exposed flesh - heaven forbid!
worked the Axmouth beach, whilst Roger Webber worked Branscombe. If only one beach was being worked, it was possible to bring the other tractor to the beach being
Seaton Esplanade 1925 between the Great Wars
for powders, and were used in glass, toothpaste, paint and cosmetics. The smaller pebbles were used in the wine industry in Spain, where they were used
up over the pebble ridges on the journey in from Culverhole. The Ferguson tractors worked the beaches at both Axmouth and Branscombe; Keith Millman
worked by removing one of the double wheels at the back, and transporting the tractor on the back of the lorry. The Leyland Thorneycroft lorry was replaced
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
by a Thames Trader, and this lorry was eventually replaced by a seven and a half ton Austin lorry, which hauled the bags of pebbles back from Branscombe each day. Robin Legg drove this lorry, and later Albert French. Keith Dack, Bernie Webber and Peter Barratt also worked as tractor drivers on the beaches. The pebbles in the bays used to be sorted once a week, by Garnet Miller from Beer and Grenville Clement. They would also use a screen for separating and grading the small pebbles, AAs, BBs, CBs, and the pickers would be paid for these by the pound in weight. Later they also made concrete slabs on the harbour beach. Pebbles and Flints has a shed near the Toll house where they had a concrete mixer and the moulds. The mix was put into the moulds to set, and pebbles were added on top. The finished product was a concrete slab, decorated with pebbles. This was a popular business at the time, and many of these slabs were sent to Harlow New Town when it was being constructed. The men who worked in the slab shed were Maurice Webber, 27
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East Devon Coast & Country Granite Transformations manufacture and install Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops
28
Local historian Ted Gosling and Mike Clement look back at Devon's heritage
Pebbles and Flints
Sitting on the beach enjoying the sea
Grenville Clement, Rodney Morgan, the latter two also did other work for Pebbles and Flints. The pickers in the early days were two brothers, Leslie and George Fry, and their father and uncle, Jack and Sid Fry, who would catch the branch train down from Colyton to Seaton, and return again after dinner. In the winter time quite a few of the local fisherman would come pebble picking. Peter Bartlett, Alan Westlake, John Newton, Jim Chapple, David Newton, Cyril Newton and Peter Westlake came over from Beer. Then there was Tom Tipper and Nigel Harding from Seaton. Reuben Wakely and Percy Huntley came from Axminster, and other included Terry Pavey, Victory Chrichard, David Harris,
Richard Facey, Barbara Newton, and Bert and June Doble. There were many more as well, who came and went over the years. In the summer time it was the best place to get a sun tan, but in the winter it could be bitter, with an east wind cutting across the beach, and the pebbles frozen together. Down at the Harbour mouth, in the late 1950s, Pebbles and Flints erected a large bin, with five chutes at the front of the bin. Each chute was connected to a separate bay in the bin, and each of these bays contained different sized pebbles picked on the beach. All the larger graded pebbles were stored in these bays, and when necessary M.S. Small, a haulage firm from
Ilminster in Somerset, would send down an articulated lorry. This would back under the bays, and the chutes would be opened as required, filling the trailer with the picked pebbles. These would then be transported to their destination. The pebbles bays back in the yard were used for the storage of slabs at this time. When Mr Beckan, the owner, died, the firm was taken over by a Mr Wright, of British & Overseas Minerals. He was the owner when East Devon District Council wanted to cut the extraction licence of pebbles from Axmouth beach by one third. Stedcombe Estate had long gone, with Miss Stephens, the Lady of the Manor, passing away
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
in 1959. The reorganisation of the local councils meant that Axminster Rural District Council had also gone. The new authority was East Devon District Council at the Knowle, Sidmouth. The council wanted to cut the extraction of pebbles from the beach, because of the beach erosion. Pebbles and Flints as a company could not continue to trade with that amount of revenue loss and so it was that in 1973 the staff at Pebbles and Flints were to receive their redundancies, and the firm ceased to trade.
Ted Gosling and Mike Clement
29
John Lewis Russel & Langham Chairs, Gold Glitter Pine Tree
Creatively Christmas
Y
T
he practice of putting up special decorations at Christmas time has an extremely long history. In fact, it was recorded in the 15th century that all homes and parish churches in London were to be “decked in holm, ivy, bays, and whatsoever
the season of the year afforded to be green.� The heart-shaped leaves of ivy were said to symbolize the coming to earth of Jesus, while holly was seen as protection against pagans and witches, its thorns and red berries held to represent the crown of thorns worn by Jesus East Devon Coast & Country
Z
at the crucifixion and the blood he shed. As different types of decorations developed across the Christian world, the first commercially produced decorations became available in Germany in the 1860`s, inspired by paper chains made by children. Nativity 30
directory Y HOME & INTERIORS Z
Wreaths can provide beautiful festive decoration
scenes are known from 10th century Rome, well before any of these new ideas came about. The traditional colours of Christmas are green and red. White, silver and gold are also popular, perhaps symbolising gold, frankincense and myrrh. Red symbolizes the blood of Jesus, which was shed in his crucifixion, while green symbolizes eternal life, and in particular the evergreen tree, which does not lose its leaves in the winter. Decorations ranging from the ever faithful Christmas tree, the poinsettia, mistletoe, garlands, Christmas figurines, bells, candles, stockings and angels adorn our homes during the festive period. However it is the trusty Christmas wreath that I wish to focus on in this Christmas issue.
even seemingly unrelated items such as plastic childrens toys and other objects into our creations. The traditional shape of the ring has even developed into other shapes such as hearts or stars. Searching through our array of retail outlets and festive displays, it is clear that we have a huge selection to choose from. I am as guilty as most when I admit to buying one which co-ordinates best with the colour of my front door, rather than choosing the most symbolic piece on offer. A natural wreath can be picked up at your local garden centre from anything between ÂŁ25.00-ÂŁ40.00. An unnatural wreath can be bought from any local retailer for probably around the same amount of money, although these can be stored and resurrected again year upon year. If you are choosing to go ahead with a more
The displaying of wreaths in each window or on front doors is a more traditional Christmas display. The concentric assortment of leaves, usually from an evergreen, make up Christmas wreaths and are designed to prepare Christians for the Advent season. A wreath can be made up of an assortment of flowers, leaves, fruit, twigs, or any other materials that are constructed together to form a ring. Evergreens are traditionally used to represent everlasting life brought through Jesus and the circular shape of the wreath represents God, with no beginning and no end. Nowadays, as with many things, we are abandoning our traditions by eliminating the evergreen completely in favour of a more contemporary look, using different materials such as bright coloured felts, wools, lighting,
natural look, then why not make your own? We are lucky enough to live in the beautiful South West, so there is no excuse for not heading out into the fresh, admittedly wet, but lovely nevertheless woodland to hunt around for some free materials. As long as you only take enough for personal use this is allowed, so all you will need to find are some twigs, leaves, hedgerow berries, pine cones, holly and Christmas tree branches. A trip to your garden centre or florists for some twine and wire, gold/silver spray, and either some wire rings and spongy moss or some readypadded rings will set you on your way for only a few pounds. Some extra items you may wish to add are cinnamon sticks, oranges which have been scored and left to dry for a few days and perhaps some ribbon. I personally like to add a little twist to my creations by spraying completely random objects such as plastic bugs or toys and spicing the thing up a little, leaving all of tradition behind me. I understand that Christmas holds an important message to many people, and I have only the hugest amount of respect for that message to those people. I, however, use the time as a space in the year the devote to my nearest and dearest, a time to reflect on the year that has passed and the year that is to come. I wish for the home to be looking at its happiest, and for the door to that home inviting those that I love into it. So have fun with your decorations and enjoy the process of collecting, being creative and sharing your ideas and effort with your wonderful family and friends!
Gold glitter spikey wreath & maple leaf lanterns
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
Mandi Crump (www.mandyjane.co.uk)
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A Celebration of Life in East Devon
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East Devon Coast & Country
36
S
ONE
YL J
ARR
YD IC B
Ardley Chic reveals more...
G
H RAP
Insult to injury
H
aving been forced to reveal my embarrassing name in the last issue, it seems I must now suffer the indignity of an unflattering portrait of my goodself holding up the bar of the Pig & Trampoline - an artist’s impression, perhaps, or is it the Editor’s impression of me? Confused? You have only yourself to blame. Those readers wise enough to pick up a pristine copy of the past three issues at the appropriate time will understand. The unlucky few who have not been following the gripping Flatbeare saga would do well to visit their doctor, dentist or hairdresser where they might perchance discover some well thumbed copies lurking amongst the assorted magazines. Since Flatbeare lies outside our circulation area I had felt able to expose some hidden local secrets. However, now that my name and likeness are in the public domain it would require just one villager to visit the Big City for dental treatment to blow my cover... and Flatbeards are not the most tolerant of folk. Fortunately the locals know me only as Henry, the strange but probably harmless retiree from upcountry with more money then sense, who is writing his memoirs and uses the Pig as an office to escape his good lady wife. Having lived here for nigh on ten years I am tolerated rather than accepted and allowed to join in general chitchat about sport and the exorbitant price of beer. Occasionally the conversation even strays to such weighty matters as why so many countries seem to be in debt, why they never repay it, to whom do they owe the money and why whoever it is doesn’t repossess the country and sell it to some trillionaire as a tax haven. But when they go into a huddle and whisper I know it’s either about me or some other item of juicy village gossip not fit for the ears of an outsider. At such times I have become adept at feigning an alcoholic stupor, lulling them into carelessly raising their voices.
My ears pricked up the night I heard the name Edna Grudge mentioned. As previous readers will know I have crossed swords with this woman recently. As secretary and generally big cheese of the Association for the Deportation of Downright Lazy Eccentrics out of Devon (ADDLED) she insisted I take a Devonshire test to ascertain whether I was a fit and proper person to live in the county. I managed to obtain a stay of eviction but she made clear I was very much on probation. The balance of power may now have shifted. The overheard conversation concerned a scam that Ms Grudge and her equally scheming sister have allegedly been perpetrating on unsuspecting incomers, or ‘furrin folk’ as she calls them. Some time ago, apparently, her family farm fell on hard times, like many others, and was repossessed and sold to a city gent, or ‘obby farmer’ as she puts it, though doubtless less politely. She took her revenge by anonymously selling him a couple of ‘Hirsutes’, a rare breed concocted, I believe, from sheep, glue and hair of Highland cattle. Then her sister, with the aid of some maggots and a strip of pappardelle pasta masquerading as a tapeworm, persuaded him that the animals were in poor condition and bought them back for a fraction of the exorbitant selling price. From what I overheard they have now carried out a similar scam on many incomers in the area. Possession of this information should ensure I have no further problems with Ms Grudge. Christmas fast approaches and I look forward to local events over the festive season. The River Flat is icy cold which perhaps explains why the Boxing Day Swim never really caught on and was eventually abandoned. But we still have the New Year’s Day Coot Race, when specially bred racing coots from as far away as Brimblebottom and Cattlecombe compete for extensive prize money. Even its future was threatened a few years ago by the doping scandal but it’s been cleaned up now.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
Then there is the famous Flatbeare Candle Carry when villagers bear a huge gailydecorated and lighted Christmas candle around the houses passing it on as they go, the unlucky one being the person who ends up holding it. Fortunately outsiders are forbidden to participate. Traditionally the carriers receive a hogshead of ale at each pub in the village. Pig landlord Jack is none too happy about this, his being the only one of the four hostelries left and hogsheads don’t come cheap these days. Luckily for him many of the carriers are unable to lift a glass due to burnt fi ngers. The candle used to be 6 foot long but nowadays there are fewer qualified carriers, so to save time it’s been reduced to 60cms. My good lady wife has begun Christmas shopping. I hope for something useful this year but she keeps trying to drag me screaming into the 20th century by giving me electronic things. She maintains I’m a technophobe; I’m proud to be, and freely admit to the common male failing of inability to operate ovens, dish washers or washing machines. I refuse to carry a mobile phone - If I’m not at home then it’s tough, people know where to fi nd me. I fi rst became reluctantly aware of the advance of technology twenty odd years ago when visiting a noted Dartmoor beauty spot. A man standing beside me commented how wonderful it was. Naturally I replied with some inane cliché but he looked a trifle puzzled. It turned out he was talking to his video camera. Of course it’s nowadays common to see people walking about apparently talking to themselves and since many can’t hear either because of their earphones, it’s pointless trying to communicate with them verbally. Truly the art of conversation is dying, except in the Pig & Trampoline. Happy Festivities!
37
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Traditional timber framing & joinery New construction and restoration Design & Contract A Celebration of Life in East Devon
39
Are you currently improving your home - if you are, the digital version of this magazine is free to access, and most of the web addresses are live, which makes it easy for you to find out more about the products or services they offer by browsing them online.
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East Devon Coast & Country
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ARTWORK BY DARRYL JONES
Our resident wildlife and countryside expert explains how Tarka has returned by Tony Jackson However, there has been a
At present it is believed that there
remarkable recovery in the otter
are between eight to eleven otters
attack and an owner will soon know if he is being targeted when he
population, in part due to re-
on the Axe catchment system and
discovers half eaten fish, such as carp,
introductions which were made in
increasing populations on the River
lying on the bank. For a female otter
certain areas of England, while a
Culm, which rises in the Blackdown
with cubs, such a water provides a
recent survey recorded evidence of
Hills to join the Exe near Exeter and
perfect class-room in which to teach
otters now present in every English
on the 50 miles long Exe itself, which
her offspring how to hunt.
county.
flows through Tiverton to Exeter and Exmouth. Signs of otters are
Otters are, of course, fully protected
STRONGHOLD FOR OTTERS and
DEVON HAS ALWAYS BEEN A In Devon, the otter population has
frequently found along the river and
by law and even if a marauding
even when there was a massive
recovered almost to pre-decline
canals in the City itself and otters
animal was to be trapped and
population slump throughout
levels and the animal is to be found
are now noted regularly along
removed to a distant site, its
much of England and Wales, from
on virtually every water-course and
rivers in towns such as Barnstaple,
departure would simply create a
Okehampton and Tiverton.
vacuum for another otter to move
the 1950s to the ‘80s, leading to fears
wetland throughout the county.
of near total extinction, the Devon
Highly elusive and seldom seen,
population of this large carnivorous
it is not perhaps appreciated that
However, the expansion of the otter
substantial fencing with an electric
in. The only answer is some form of
mammal, while falling by around
these mobile animals have extensive
population in Devon has inevitably
defensive line. Otters are powerful
75 per cent, retained a tiny but
home ranges which may take in up
resulted in an escalating number of
animals and can readily knock down
viable population. The cause of
to 25 or so miles of rivers, streams,
road kills and reports of predation at
a fence if it has weak points and,
the overall population crash was due
lakes, marshes and even flooded
fisheries. In Devon some 233 otters
furthermore, can wriggle through
to the widespread use in farming
ditches. Like mink, their smaller
were recorded dead between 1990
the tightest of gaps. Advice on
and industry of organochlorine
cousins, they are also perfectly at
and 2004, of which 75 per cent were
protection is available from the
pesticides which, in turn, leached
home travelling long distances on
killed on the roads and while otter
Environment Agency.
into rivers, poisoning fish and some
dry land.
underpasses can be created in
species of birds such as peregrines
some black spots, it is impossible
and sparrowhawks, while also killing
A great deal of work and effort into
otters or making them infertile.
conservation management has
to eliminate this hazard.
The otter has returned and I rather fancy that Henry Williamson who wrote the classic novel “Tarka the
undoubtedly ensured a future for
Damage by otters at fisheries
Otter” in 1927, would fully approve
Ironically, it was otter-hunters who
the otter. Trees have been planted to
can also be severe and cause
of all that Devon has achieved to
first drew attention to the dramatic
create future holts where otters can
considerable problems to fishery
provide a welcoming home to this
decline, and whilst the sport was
breed or lie up, while artificial holts
owners. A large animal, weighing
iconic animal.
banned in England and Wales in
have also been built. Initially, this
on average from around 15lb to 26lb,
1979 and in Scotland three years later
work was undertaken by the Vincent
each adult requires about 2kg of
and the otter given full protection
Wildlife Trust’s Otter Haven project
food a day, and whilst usually in the
status, it was the misuse of chemicals
and, until recently, by the Devon
form of fish and eels, this carnivore
which was the prime cause of the
Wildlife Trust’s Otters and Rivers
will not pass up the opportunity
population crash. The pesticides,
project, while the Environment
to kill water birds, amphibians and
too, were eventually banned but
Agency and Forest Enterprise also
small mammals. A still-water fishery
by then the damage had been done.
provide active assistance.
can be particularly vulnerable to
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
43
Mysterious Mistletoe
by Ted Gosling
My fath er an d grandfather were gardeners with an unrivalled botanical knowledge, which was earned by working in the gardens of the ‘Big House’. Grandfather was also a life-long member of the Plymouth Bretheren and was very religious, so it does seem strange that where ever he lived, he propagated that strange and wanton bunch we hang somewhere about our house at Christmas, called mistletoe. By the time you get this magazine, Christmas will be only a few weeks away, so an article on this curious and interesting parasite seems appropriate. Mistletoe belongs to an exceptional family, the Lonranthaceae, comprising more than five hundred members, only one of which is a native our Europe, Viscum Album, the Latin name for our English mistletoe. It is readily propagated by seeds (it is not a berry, although it looks like one). To propogate, it can be squashed on the rough bark on the underside of a soft-barked tree such as the apple or poplar, March being the best time. People I have spoken to on this subject always fail to grow mistletoe because they try in December after throwing out the bough after Christmas. Don’t do this, it is useless to sow the unripe seeds then. You must treat mistletoe the right way, you must never cut it with iron but always with gold. You must never let it touch the ground, but must catch it in a white cloth as it falls. You must always suspend it in the house, and never put it in a vase, and after every kiss the man must pinch off one fruit.
Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant living off host trees such as apple, lime, willow, poplar and hawthorn. In fact, it can parasite more than 200 tree and shrub species. According to Pliny the Elder, the Celts considered mistletoe a remedy for barrenness in animals and an antidote to poison.
Many folk tales abound regarding mistletoe. Shakespeare called it baleful, but treated right, it can avert lightning and thunderbolts, witchcraft and sorcery. It can extinguish fire, it can discover gold buried in the earth, and it can also cure ulcers and epilepsy. But here's a word of warning - if you do not treat it right, it can do dreadful things to you. After all, it was not for nothing the Druids particularly esteemed this strange and wanton bunch we hang about our house at Christmas. Left - a particularly heavily mistletoe infested group of trees.
East Devon Coast & Country
44
The Otter Valley in mid-winter looking west
The old railway bridge over the Otter above Tipton St John
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
45
WHAT'S ON IN HONITON Villages in Action 1st Dec - A story created by three generations of the same family about parents, children and falling in love. www.tomfrankland.co.uk At Gittisham Village Hall at 7.30pm Prices between £5 and £10 01404 850051 Christmas Late Night Shopping 6th Dec - Come visit our late night shopping in Honiton including our Street Market in full festive flow! Open until late. Christmas in Honiton 7th Dec - Sing carols in St. Paul's Church at 5.30pm, then outside for the Christmas
157 High St, Honiton. EX14 1LJ 01404 44399
10am-5pm Open Mon-Sat www.yarrow155.com
Tree Lighting ceremony. Afterwards, pop into the Mackarness Hall for free mince pies, stalls and visit Father Christmas. Honiton Christmas Carnival 8th Dec - procession starts at the west end of the High Street at 5.30pm. Printmaking and Animation 19th Jan to 2nd Mar - The New Year kicks off at the Thelma Hulbert Gallery with printmaking and Animation, part of 2013s Animated Exeter Festival. Free admission, donations welcome. Open Tue - Sat 10am - 5pm. 01404 45006 E: info@thelmahulbert.com
East Devon Coast & Country
46
Nelson’s
Parting Shot... The Greeks had a word for it SINCE YOU ASK it was Aristophanes who first coined the phrase ‘cloud cuckoo land’ in his play ‘The Birds’ written in 400-and something BC. Some ancient Greeks are discussing what name they should give to a new city being built half way up a mountain. Chorus leader: “Some name from around here - to do with clouds, with high places full of air, something really extra grand”. Pisthetairos: “Well, then, how do you like this: Cloudcuckooland?”
BANDS ON THE RUN: colourful sun pillar display over Dartmoor PHOTO courtesy Ayse Rifat, Bantham, Devon
Which brings our cultural corner to a close for this issue - other than to wish you a Kalá hristúyenna. Nephelokokkugia! (Cloud-cuckoo-land!)
Welcome to cloud cuckoo land, Devon chapter IF you are among the 83% of men or 64% of women in Devon* who are habitual daydreamers (the male, seems more prone to this than the female) you may already be a member of the cloud appreciation society and didn’t know it.
That’s the Cloud Appreciation Society, capital C, A and S. And if you don’t feel comfortable being categorized under daydreamer see also castles-in-the-air, fool’s paradise, pie-in-thesky, stargazer , woolgatherer or cloud cuckoo land. You get the drift?
*(Survey carried out in the Saloon Bar of The Weary Badger, somewhere in Devon, last Sunday lunchtime).
In short, if you spend any degree of your time with your head in the clouds, the good news is you are not alone and this flock of cloud watchers is right up your street. There really is a Cloud Appreciation Society and it has thousands of members around the world (including a chapter in Devon) and they all keep in touch with one another at an unutterably beautiful web site www.cloudappreciationsociety.org
PHOTO courtesy Steve Smith, Dartmouth
Daydream believer Aristophanes
CARRIED AWAY They’ve even concocted a manifesto - a tad too woolly to reproduce in its entirety here - but in part it goes something like this: WE BELIEVE that clouds are unjustly maligned and that life would be immeasurably poorer without them. We think that they are Nature’s poetry, and the most egalitarian of her displays, since everyone can have a fantastic view of them. HEAVENLY HOST: Extraordinary cirrus cloud formations pass peacefully over South Devon
We seek to remind people that clouds are expressions of the atmosphere’s moods, and can be read like those of a person’s countenance.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
DOWN TO EARTH There’s even some practical advice at the end about saving money. “Clouds”, it concludes, “are for dreamers and their contemplation benefits the soul. Indeed, all who consider the shapes they see in them will save on psychoanalysis bills” So the next time your partner suggests you get a hobby, reach for a camera, start watching the skies to a purpose and set your mind and your imagination free! That web address again is www.cloudappreciationsociety.org
47
Sherlock Holmes's Final Case
THERE IS A LEGEND that there was once a lighthouse off the coast of Devon - although as we go to press we’re still scouring our charts to find it. But then what Christmas issue of any self-respecting magazine published in the West Country would be complete without a Christmas ghost story and after all, what is a legend if not truth told in the robes of poetry?
T HE GHO S T S
R OCK
Uncovered by John Fisher
E OF G RO C K L
NOW GATHER ROUND, MY HEARTIES, if you love the salty sea, for it's very nearly midnight by the clock, and the wind is in the chimney and Polly’s brewing tea, and I'll tell you all the tale of Grockle Rock !
yellow light, then they checked in
The f loor below the lantern,
and slammed the trap down
That lighthouse way out yonder
where they kept the paraffin, had
tight, then shot a box of rockets
both its windows fastened back
t’wards the town, and quickly lit
is an automatic light, it has been since the keepers disappeared,
KEEPERS VANISHED
and no one goes there any more,
BOTH WINDOWS COMING OFF
of the stair, but their colleagues
THE LATCH!
had just vanished in the night. They made it to the lantern deck
on hooks, to keep the fumes from
the lantern and stayed up there
building up and let the breezes
all night - and both kept warm by running round and round.
especially at night, and the
It was barely two days later,
in, and this is where the keepers
reason’s like to curl a sailor's
when it came their turn to go
kept their books.
beard.
that the change of keepers felt
They were rescued in the
that things weren't right. The It started so they reckon, many
place was locked and shuttered
Christmas Eves ago, when the
and no footprints in the snow,
townsfolk took them out their
and they wondered why they
Christmas cheer, the sea was
hadn't lit the light.
like a mill pond and it just came
morning but they didn't like to
STRANGE HAPPENINGS
rowed away, they put them as
that they didn't know before, the
they'd found them when they'd come.
There was nothing out of order,
final entry made on Christmas
boots and oilskins by the door,
night, then both men grabbed
not a single sign of trouble
each other at the slamming of a
"See you after Christmas, if the
anywhere, the Christmas tree
door, and a sudden gust of wind
weather stays this kind!" was the
was standing in a bucket on the
blew out the light.
floor but the keepers had just vanished in thin air.
and watched them vanish like
came undone, so when no one
The log book told them nothing
on to snow, as they hoisted out a
heard them shout, and stood
say, about the way the windows was looking and before they
crate of ginger beer.
last thing those old townsfolk
out of there AS THEY HEARD
both the bedrooms in the corner
HOLMES AND WATSON
One said he'd heard some
Police sealed up the lighthouse
footsteps coming up the spiral
and they sent for Sherlock
a memory from the mind, as
They shouted up the stairwell,
stair, the other fumbled madly
Holmes, the greatest crime
they went inside and locked the
"Is there anybody there ?" and
for a match, but then blind panic
detective of his day, who said
shone their lantern's flick'ring
gripped them and they scrambled
he'd solve the mystery of where
blizzard out.
East Devon Coast & Country
40
TO CAP A CORK
the men had gone, if he couldn't,
This is the most effective method for tying down the cork of a bottle. It is exactly the way in which champagne corks are wired.
then they wouldn't have to pay. He was standing by the log book
Take a half-a-yard of string, double it, and at the doubled end make the knotted loop B. Pass the two ends of the string round the neck of the bottle and A knot them at E. D
and pondering the case, when he spied two bits of paper by the door, "The solution's clear, dear Watson, as the nose upon my face !" then went down to the living room once more.
Take end C, and, B passing it over the cork, slip it C through loop E B as shown at A. Pull end C t i ghtly b a c k over the cork, and knot it with the end D close down to E. Doing that will securely imprison even the most fiery and frothsome ginger-beer that ever was "up".
"Look around you, Watson and tell me what you see, for these scraps of coloured paper point us here." "Why, all the signs of Christmas and festive revelry." "Precisely, and a crate of ginger beer !" "They both exchanged their presents, some handkerchiefs and socks, that concertina says they danced and sang, then one of them, quite clearly, took a cracker from this box and said, “Let’s finish Christmas with a bang!”
Epilogue
"Let's follow them upstairs, my friend, to where they had some
There's a lighthouse up in
laughing at a Christmas cracker
room, and now the mystery's
Heaven, just outside the pearly
joke, unless they've had a lot of
really very plain, each grabbed the
gates, for sailormen who cannot
ginger beer !
Christmas cracker and waiting for
find their way, where the pair of
the boom, leant over backwards,
friends who run it have some
taking up the strain."
chuckles with their mates, as they anchor at the closing of
"Do I have to draw a picture of the
their day.
finish of these men ? as the cracker came apart and gave a snap? They
They read that scrap of paper
hurtled through these windows
out to all those passing folk, to
and were never seen again, leaving
prove their point, before they
just this slip of paper and a cap."
disappear, that no one yet died
The End
GHOSTLY VOICES The first ghost said, "I thought so, but now I have no doubt, that Sherlock Holmes is brilliant alright, but now let's shut these windows up, ' fore someone else falls out, then hurry up aloft to keep the light." England's great detective watched the windows slowly close, but still beat Doctor Watson to the door, and their row boat had a paddle steamer beaten by a nose as they hit the beach and rowed it up the shore !
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
41
Tide Timetables
WHAT'S ON IN EXMOUTH
Lyme Regis to Exmouth Lyme Regis
Introduction to Birdwatching on the Exe Estuary
Seaton Beer
1st Dec 12.30-3.30pm - Learn to identify the birds of the Exe Estuary. £6 per person. Booking essential. A la Ronde.
Sidmouth
Budleigh Salterton
Exmouth Christmas Cracker
Exmouth
Dogs are allowed on the beaches during December & January, please check local bylaws mnth Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan
day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
time 0106 0128 0157 0232 0310 0354 0448 0013 0131 0246 0354 0457 0555 0008 0054 0137 0217 0258 0342 0430 0008 0105 0209 0316 0419 0513 0558 0634 0027 0055 0113 0140 0215 0254 0337 0427 0528 0051 0211 0328 0442 0549 0646 0039 0124 0203 0240 0318 0359 0444 0536 0052 0210 0334 0442 0534 0617 0009 0043 0102 0127 0200
mtr 1.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.2 3.6 3.6 3.8 4.0 4.3 4.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.9 1.1 1.3 1.5 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.4 3.6 3.8 4.0 4.2 1.0 1.0 1.1 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.2 3.6 3.7 3.8 4.1 4.3 4.5 0.6 0.6 0.8 0.9 1.1 1.3 1.5 1.7 3.2 3.2 3.4 3.6 3.9 4.1 1.0 1.0 0.9 0.9 0.8
time 0751 0821 0846 0910 0944 1030 1128 0557 0725 0849 0956 1054 1147 0649 0739 0828 0915 1002 1050 1140 0524 0627 0736 0843 0943 1039 1130 1217 0705 0737 0809 0838 0904 0933 1012 1102 1207 0648 0816 0930 1033 1130 1222 0733 0817 0858 0939 1020 1100 1142 1231 0641 0758 0911 1013 1108 1157 0650 0720 0752 0824 0854
mtr 4.1 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.8 3.7 3.7 1.3 1.3 1.1 0.8 0.6 0.4 4.5 4.5 4.4 4.2 4.0 3.8 3.5 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.5 1.4 1.2 1.0 0.9 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.1 4.0 3.9 3.9 3.8 3.6 1.2 1.2 1.0 0.7 0.5 0.4 4.6 4.5 4.4 4.2 3.9 3.7 3.4 3.3 1.8 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.1 1.0 4.2 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.2
time 1325 1349 1421 1458 1540 1630 1732 1243 1406 1521 1628 1729 1825 1237 1323 1406 1447 1529 1615 1705 1235 1336 1443 1549 1647 1738 1821 1856 1257 1319 1337 1406 1443 1523 1609 1703 1812 1328 1450 1607 1718 1819 1911 1311 1354 1432 1507 1545 1626 1713 1808 1339 1459 1612 1711 1759 1837 1241 1311 1326 1352 1426
mtr 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.2 1.3 3.6 3.7 3.8 4.1 4.3 4.4 0.4 0.5 0.7 0.9 1.1 1.3 1.5 3.4 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.7 3.9 4.0 4.1 0.9 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.9 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 3.6 3.7 3.8 4.1 4.3 4.4 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.7 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.7 3.9 4.1 0.9 0.9 0.8 0.8 0.8
time 2015 2044 2108 2136 2215 2307 none 1852 2017 2127 2226 2319 none 1916 2005 2053 2140 2228 2316 none 1801 1905 2009 2110 2206 2258 2345 none 1927 1959 2030 2058 2125 2159 2243 2339 none 1936 2054 2200 2258 2351 none 1955 2038 2119 2200 2240 2319 2359 none 1916 2028 2134 2232 2323 none 1908 1938 2010 2042 2112
mtr 3.9 3.8 3.7 3.6 3.6 3.6 none 1.3 1.1 0.9 0.7 0.6 none 4.4 4.4 4.2 4.0 3.7 3.5 none 1.6 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.2 1.1 1.0 none 4.1 4.1 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.7 none 1.2 1.1 0.9 0.7 0.6 none 4.4 4.3 4.2 3.9 3.7 3.4 3.3 none 1.7 1.6 1.5 1.3 1.1 none 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.1 4.1
BEACHFRONT TEASHOPS AND RESTAURANTS WITH SEA VIEWS
Mike Long Sings Sinatra 15th December 7.30pm - a Christmas Special, Tickets £5, available from Exmouth Information Centre. Blackmore Theatre.
A Christmas Concert
1st Dec - Strand Gardens
18th Dec - Exmouth Town Concert Band, The Pavilion, Esplanade.
Farmers Market
Farmers Market
5th Dec 9.00am-1.30pm Strand Gardens.
19th Dec 9.00am-1.30pm Strand Gardens
Farmers Market 12th Dec 9.00am-1.30pm Strand Gardens.
LYME REGIS (01297) Alexandra Hotel 442010 Bay Hotel 442059 By The Bay 442668
EXMOUTH INFORMATION CENTRE PLEASE NOTE - We're now at Travelworld, 3 Rolle Street, Exmouth. 01395 222299
SEATON Treats Cafe BEER Anchor Inn BRANSCOMBE The Sea Shanty SIDMOUTH The Clocktower Teas, home-made cakes and lunches Tel 01395 515319 BUDLEIGH S. Longboat Cafe EXMOUTH Channel View Cafe LYMPSTONE (01392) Swan Inn 270403 TOPSHAM Lighter Inn
EAST DEVONʼS LEADING INTRUDER ALARM INSTALLER
TAMAR SECURITY Bespoke systems designed to suit your business or home Intruder Alarms Maintained & Updated, CCTV installation, Emergency Lights, Door Access Systems, Fire Extinguisher Supply & Maintenance.
CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTATION ON
01395 222999 or 01395 577250
A qualified engineer is only a phone call away 24 HOURS A DAY, EVERYDAY
www.tamarsecurity.co.uk
East Devon Coast & Country
50
DEVONCOURT HOTEL &
APARTMENTS
HEATED INDOOR POOL
Beautifully situated ‘Guest Accommodation’ set in four acres of sub-tropical gardens overlooking Exmouth’s two miles of golden sandy beaches, looking out to Lyme Bay and Start Point. CHRISTMAS GARDEN
FITNESS GYM
HOTEL CHRISTMAS DISPLAY
www.devoncourthotel.com
All rooms have en-suite facilities, tea/coffee, free wi-fi throughout, TVs with Freeview & DVD player. Some rooms have kitchenettes. All residents have full use of the leisure facilities in our health and fitness club. The facilities are open daily, from 7am to 9pm and are available 365 days a year to guests and members of our leisure club alike.
L i fe st yle health & fitness club
• Fitness Gym • Indoor Heated Pool • Outdoor Heated Pool (May-Sept) • Far-Infra Red Sauna • Cleopatra Steam Room • Whirlpool Spa • Aqua Fitness Classes • Aerobics Classes • All-Weather Tennis Court • Sunshower (extra charge) • Snooker Table (extra charge) • Putting Green (May-Sept)
Our sub-tropical gardens have direct access to the beach.
SAVE ££S - bring this advert with you and save the joining fee.
To view the facilities, please call or pop in to see us anytime.
Memberships are available from as little as £5.29 per week.
DOUGLAS AVENUE EXMOUTH
www.lifestyleleisureclub.co.uk
01395 272277
Facebook: devoncourt hotel & apartments
Exmouth from the air
East Devon Coast & Country
52
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
53
Fur Hat 100% silk scarf
Stylish home interiors and exclusive gifts to tempt everyone... Pearl Clutch Bag
Party Time / Masked Ball
Handmade in the UK
Cow Hide Magazine Basket
LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENINGS Contact us for your invitation to a privileged Christmas Gifts preview.
Award Winning Retailer Temptation (Find us at Sidmouth Garden Centre) East Devon Coast & Country Telephone: 01395 514851 / 01395 576645 . Email: temptationliving@aol.com
54
Taper Candles
20 LED Lights
From only £2.99 per pack
Battery powered static & flashing From only £2.99 RRP £3.99
Half Price
Meet Father Christmas
He’ll be in his Grotto every weekend during December and also on the 19th, 20th and 21st
Snow Scooters
Dancing & Singing Christmas Tree
Lit Village Collection
Sledges
From only £9.99 Two for £15
RRP £29.99 Only £19.99
From only £14.99 RRP £19.99
Now only £9.99
Christmas Trees Available Now! • No price increases • Grade A shape
50 Fat Balls Snow Cleats Rock Salt Only £8.99
Pots of 3 Only £2.99
9cm pot Only £2.99
Stowford Cross, Sidmouth, EX10 0NA
01395 516142 www.sidmouthgardens.co.uk A Celebration of Life in East Devon
Open 7 days 9am-5pm (10am-4pm Sun)
From only £5.99
Cut me out!
Now only £1.99
Get a free hot drink!
Free Tea or Coffee
Postcode required to validate
With each slice of cake purchased before 11am or after 2pm. Valid throughout Dec 2012 and Jan 2013 55 MV Dec12
With every Xmas Tree purchased!
Big bag only £4.99
Indoor Christmas Poinsettias Narcissi and 50 miniatures Hyacinth Cactus Large locally grown RRP £5.99
�
Free Santa Hat
Only £5.99
Glorious
A
fter the summer we've
look online confirmed that late
Now, if you live in Devon, the
Cardiff, I'm once bitten twice shy
had this year, a foreign
September temperatures were
easy and stress free option when
as they say - it really is a long, long drive to Cardiff airport, which can
holiday in the sun was
around 28 degrees, with gentle
it comes to foreign holidays is to fly
a very welcome treat. As luck
breezes. The default for many of
from Exeter International Airport.
be made all the more stressful by
would have it, and browsing
us wanting 'guaranteed' weather
Bristol is a fair stretch from Devon,
traffic delays. So flights were
flights online, Cyprus appeared
are the Canaries, so Cyprus would
and if you opt for airport parking,
booked, and we picked the quiet
as a late season 'possible'. Never
certainly provide a welcome
then the shuttle buses add even
resort of Latchi which is on the
having been to Cyprus, a quick
change.
more hassle. Having flown from
northern side of the Akamas
East Devon Coast & Country
56
Flying from Exeter International Airport
By Tim Perryman
Cyprus
Anchoring in one of the quiet coves, what a way to spend the day!
peninsular on the western part
to Latchi took about 45 minutes,
are many interesting places you
industry used to be sponge diving.
of the island. I have to confess that
which was made all the easier
can visit down dusty tracks that
For those that like busy night and
landing at Pafos was a relief after
because driving in Cyprus is as per
require extra ground clearance,
beach life, then perhaps a resort
4½ hours of flying, it's a long old
the UK - on the left. Incidentally,
so if you're adventurous, it's worth
closer to Pafos would be the
way over to Cyprus, for example,
car hire was very reasonable, so it's
considering.
better option, but Latchi suited
Syria is just another 80 miles as
definitely worth considering if you
Latchi (otherwise known as Latsi
us perfectly, being fairly laid back
the crow flies. Picking the car
wish to explore freely . Another
or Lakki) is based around the
and not overly loud. With a busy
up at the airport, the drive over
option is to go for a 4x4, as there
old harbour where the original
little harbour, full of yachts and
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
57
Glorious Cyprus One for dog lovers: A fine figure of a Cypriot dog - Ben, an unusual Jack Russell X Labrador cross - adopted as a stray puppy by the lady at the boat hire company
Plenty of boats for hire, it's well worth hiring a boat for a trip up the coast from Latchi
Traditional old houses can be found off the beaten track
fishing boats, there's much to
don't know about yourself, but
watch whilst you're enjoying your
my general approach to sussing
a pretty good approximation of where the better restaurants
food or drink, and I must say that
out the 'decent' eating places
are, and indeed, it worked well,
the standard of food at some of the
(especially if you're faced with a
having found a really excellent
restaurants turned out to be really
row of 15 restaurants sitting cheek
restaurant with good food and
high. When outside restaurants, I
by jowl), is to spot the busy ones,
a complimentary brandy at the
generally regard the word 'seafood'
then sit down for a drink, keeping
end of the meal. Incidentally, a
as a euphemism for 'it's going to
an eye focused on plates that the
swordfish main course with char
be expensive!', and anticipate high
waiters drag out from the depths
grilled vegetables was about ÂŁ8
prices, but here it was reasonably
of the kitchen. From experience,
and a pint of the local beer about
priced and of good quality. I
I've found that this method gives
ÂŁ2.40.
Locals 'chilling out' with a spot of Sunday fishing at the Cape of Drepanon harbour
East Devon Coast & Country
58
Latchi harbour, it's a cheerful place, you can sit along the quay and watch the comings and goings of fishermen, yachts and leisure craft. It's laid back and relaxing, with a complete abscence of 'rave' music - hallelujah!
I'd say that the Greek Cypriots are
Although the beach is pebbly,
a fairly friendly bunch, and walking
the water is crystal clear and very
along the quayside restaurants and
welcome in the heat of the day.
bars at Latchi you had to be fairly
Once cooled-off, you can visit
single-minded to get from one end
to the Baths of Aphrodite, being,
to the other without stopping for
according to legend, the place
a drink or meal. But it's great to sit
where Aphrodite met her lover,
in the shade and relax, looking out
Adonis, when he stopped to quench
over activity of the harbour.
his thirst (it's really a spring nestling in the rock). Apparently if you bathe
The beaches either side of Latchi
in this spring, it restores youth. I did
harbour are covered with dark shale,
consider dipping my foot in, but a
so it's not the prettiest place for
sign barred entry.
swimming, but fear not, as taking the road west a couple of miles,
From the harbour you can hire a
takes you to an attractive beach
very wide range of leisure boats,
next to the Baths of Aphrodite.
from basic to expensive cruisers
13th century St George's chapel at the Cape of Drepanon - don' t think I 've even visited a more humble religious building
The beach at Cape of Drepanon
sporting all mod cons. If you're not too bothered about being at sea, to counter this, I would say to you that further along the coastline are several stunning areas for swimming, one being a beach with white sand (called Blue Lagoon, it really should have been Turquoise Lagoon) and about 3 other coves faced with shallow rock, but all excellent for swimming. The only way to reach the beach, would be by 4x4 (along one of the dusty tracks I mentioned earlier), or by boat, in which case you could reach all the coves, drop anchor and dive out. So it's really worth getting a boat for the day if you enjoy swimming, as the water really is warm, crystal clear and totally turquoise which is a real delight to the eyes. A word of caution, if you opt for the boat, keep covered as much as possible, as the light bouncing off the
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
59
The bay opposite the Baths of Aphrodite
Glorious Cyprus
Dining is so pleasant, here it's under a terrace of pendulous gourts
The Baths of Aphrodite, according to legend it's the place where Aprhrodite met her lover, Adonis - when he stopped to quench his thirst
water really does burn. Many of the
proclaimed himself king of Cyprus),
boats for hire have canopies, which
boarded the ships, taking both
I'd strongly advise taking. Many of
Richard's fiancĂŠe and sister, prisoner.
the boats also come with snorkelling
Richard subsequently invaded the
equipment and fishing rods.
island and captured the prince, and a year later the island was then sold
Cyprus is awash with historical
to the Knights Templar, who then
relics and ruins, so once you tire
sold the island on to the exiled
of swimming and relaxing at cafes,
King of Jerusalem, Guy de Lusignan.
there's much to see that's of great
Ownership of the island then passed
interest.
Pafos is really worth
to the Venetians for a century, then
seeing, but more about that later.
the Ottoman Turks invaded and held
Cyprus is the third largest island in
it for another 3 centuries before the
the Mediterranean, after Sicily and
British then took over administration
Sardinia, and has a long association
in 1878. The invasion by the Turks
with the British, going all the way
was particularly bloody.
back to Richard I (The Lionheart)
Nicosia fell after several weeks,
in 1190. Story has it that several of
20,000 were put to death. Another
Richard's ships were forced to harbour
fortress at Famagusta held out
When
at Cyprus due to storms, where the
for 10 months and was reputedly
local prince Isaac Komnenos (he'd
to be one of the greatest battles
A lone chameleon marching across the road. They're amazing creatures, particularly the eyes which rotate independent of each other - what a useful facility to have.
East Devon Coast & Country
60
The misnamed Blue Lagoon of the time. Lala Mustafa pasha,
on view. It's a UNESCO World Heritage
character, the tombs are described as
uncommercialised, so worth a
the Turkish commander, broke his
Site. I'd advise laying aside at least
"royal", but in fact they never served
considering. There's a beach shack
promise of clemency and ordered the
three hours to get round it properly.
as resting places for kings, although
that does very good tea. Additionally,
garrison to be slaughtered, and the
Another famous site at Pafos is the
they're nonetheless impressive.
at the top of the cliffs, there's a
Venetians' leader Bragadino being
Tombs of the Kings, which forms an
skinned alive. In 1960, Cyprus gained
extensive site of necropolis mined
Another interesting archeological
verandah overlooking the harbour
lovely restaurant with a verdant
its independence.
out of the rocky headland which
site is at Cape Drepanon, where you
and coastline.
was in use over the centuries. This
can visit the site of a late Roman
Previous to all this of course, our
fascinating necropolis dates from
town (6th C with early Christian
Heading off inland, the landscape
friends the Romans were on the scene,
the Hellenic and Roman periods
basilica) and harbour which has a
was found to be interesting, with
and evidence of this is all over the
and if you're visiting in mid summer,
necropolis excavated into the cliffs
pine forests taking over from scrub
island. The Roman site at Kato Pafos
it's best done early morning or late
and facing out to sea. The harbour
as mountain roads were climbed.
is a 'must see' if you're into that sort of
afternoon as much heat radiates from
is actually a good stopping point
Lizards seem to be all over the place,
thing, with some exceptional mosaics
the rock. Due to their monumental
for a swim or refreshment and it's
every time you stop, they scurry off
An old bridge, a leftover from the Venetian occupation. It's an extremely elegant if derelict stone bridge. The stream (I dare say it's a river in the winter) has decided to take another route. On walking down to the stream, lizards darted off in all directions, don' t think I 've ever seen so many lizards (and frogs in the water)
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
61
Glorious Cyprus
Kato Pafos
In ancient times, this was the capital of Cyprus under the Romans and at this archaeological site, it is evident that this was a place of ostentatious wealth. There are some of the finest Roman mosaics that you'll see anywhere. Kato Pafos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kato Pafos, mosaics abound at this extraordinary Roman site
The quality of this mosaic would signify that the villa was high status
These mosaics above, show the gory Roman lust for blood. They were a fascinating lot, but thankfully we don' t have to live under their regime, it would have been brutal to say the least
Mosaic artisans had an exceptional grasp of form in order to be able to impart lifelike animation into mosaic
"Phaedra and Hippolytos" This mosaic depicts Hippolytos on the left accompanied by his dog in a hunting scene. Hippolytos looks embarrassed while reading Phaedra's love letter. Phaedra, Hippolytos's stepmother, is shown on the right, sitting on a throne, anxiously awaiting the young man's reaction. The burning torch that cupid directs towards her heart is a testimony to her passion. Late 2nd/early 3rd century A. D.
East Devon Coast & Country
62
into the undergrowth, I've never
to the Troodos mountains, what
seen so many. One of the days,
we saw was interesting, with
driving along a back road, we
monasteries perched on the side
spotted a lizard marching across
of pine clad rocky mountains in the
the road, which was unusual, as
middle of nowhere. Stopping off
generally they're so fast you can
was a joy, at friendly old villages. I
hardly see them. The lizard turned
wish we'd had more time to potter
out to be a chameleon, it seems
around, but you know how it is
they take one step forward, then
with children, they much prefer to
pause, with legs aloft, followed by
be snorkelling that being carted
another step in the same manner,
around some mountain in a very
so to all intents and purposes, the
hot hatchback!
chameleon really looked like it was marching. We got out of the car,
I'd definitely consider re-visiting
picked it up, moving it to the other
Cyprus, it made a welcome change
side of the road - they really don't
from the ever clement Canaries,
have much road sense.
and if you're into historical and archeological stuff, there's much
Views can be spectacular, and
to keep you interested.
although we didn't quite make it
Valley of the Kings This necropolis occupies a large site overlooking the sea, to the north of Kato Pafo, which was in use from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. It's called the Valley of the Kings, but really it was more about catering for well-to-do people who could have their beloved interred in the underground tombs. Amazingly, all the tombs are carved out of solid sandstone, deep in to the ground.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
end
63
The Old Vicarage, Otterton
Residential care in a country house setting. Rated as “Excellent” by the Care Quality Commission.
Professionally qualified staff on duty seven days a week. We also provide for convalescence, respite, and holiday breaks. For a brochure or appointment to view, please call the duty matron on:
01395 568208 email: tovotterton@btinternet.com www.theoldvicarageotterton.co.uk
East Devon Coast & Country
64
Tales of a Yokel D. B. Photography
Going Over Fifty Without Crashing By FCR Esgen
Life begins at forty, or so I was always told. When I got there I became depressed as I felt I hadn't arrived at the nirvana that was supposed to envelop me. In fact it took another ten years before I sensed that I was really living. Things change when you wake up one day and find you're fifty. For one thing you are too old to have another mid-life crisis and instead of jumping out of bed ready for a day's work, you make a cup of tea and jump back in, hoping that no one will notice. Its not just an age thing, part of the deal is that the kids should have realised that the hotel they have been staying in for the past twenty years has now gone into liquidation due to a lack of enthusiasm and that the handing out of blank cheques to finance over-indulgent lifestyles has ceased. In your advanced state of maturity, your relationships too are expected to be all ship shape and Bristol fashion. It is taken as read that you have found the love of your life and that you are both enjoying the type of life that was denied you when you were paying loads into your pension, that is now incidentally worth half as much as your gilt-edged financial advisor promised you. In fact the fat cats have eaten most of it and anything left will be swallowed up by your coming divorce settlement. Physically, perhaps you are not the person you once were and you find yourself going to the loo at parties far more than you used too, but there are compensations in being numerically challenged. Just think of it, at least by being old you go to bed too early to make any more mistakes.
COMMENTS FROM OUR MAGAZINE READERS Saw the copy of your magazine at the BBC the other day and thought it was very classy! Loved the Betjeman and Tales of a Yokel and Arts pages particularly... great photography too! Warm wishes Judi Spiers BBC RADIO DEVON
Yarns from the inimitable FCR Esgen
Bankruptcy George gazed at me across his kitchen table, leant over his mug of tea and confessed depressingly that he had just gone bankrupt for the second time. I asked if his condition was moral or financial. This seemed only to make matters worse as George put his head in his hands and bemoaned that it was financial. Secretly I was slightly jealous, as in my limited experience of the Micawbers of this world, the condition of bankruptcy had always looked like a road to Damascus type of experience. I remember being in another friend's kitchen a few years ago as the last rites of their bankruptcy order was taking place right before my eyes. The two bailiffs, who had been sent by the court to remove any possessions from the house worth selling, had given up trying to find something of value and were refreshing themselves with some of my friend's home brew. It was pointless to warn them that it would have been a safer bet to fly to NASA and ask them for a few pints of rocket fuel as when I walked in the house, they were already the worse for wear. I myself had been on the wrong end of my host's parsnip wine some weeks earlier and had paid dearly for the experience. We reached the point of no return somewhere in the early afternoon when the children started squirting their water pistols at the two men and the dog succeeded in removing their shoes. Later, as my friend's wife kindly served me with my third cup of good Italian coffee and the two bailiffs slid under the table unconscious, I mused that bankruptcy was indeed a stupefying experience. By FCR Esgen
BUDDING WRITERS At the magazine, we're always looking for interesting content and there really is no barrier to contributing to the magazine. If you have a subject you're passionate about and feel you can convey your interest to our readers, please make contact with us at the office. All you need to do is email or post a sample piece of your proposed editorial and we'll contact you to discuss further. Tel 01395 513383 or email nigel@prestige-media.co.uk
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A Celebration of Life in East Devon
65
REAL BEER REVIVAL HJ Mullineux celebrates the small breweries spearheading a local real ale renaissance photo: Nigel Cheffers-Heard
H
Location: The Bridge Inn, Topsham
ere’s a conundrum. If beer sales
tempted to the pub if offered a range
Silverton, Beer Engine in Newton
are falling, with a reported 139
of flavoursome cask ales, crafted by
St Cyres and Gargoyles/Isca Ales in
to using traditional methods on
million less pints drunk in 2011 and
artisan producers, that value quality
Dawlish, as well as Lyme Regis’ new
much smaller scale. He set up Otter
pubs closing nationwide at an average
over quantity.
Brewery in 1990 and the family-run
rate of 16 a week, then why are new small breweries appearing every
A g row i ng nu mber of sma l l
month and how did East Devon’s own
independent
Ottery Brewery manage a 10 per cent growth in sales last year?
brewer ies,
There are now more brewers than at any time since the Second World War
or
“microbreweries” across Britain are helping satisfy the new thirst for real ale. There are now more
The answer lies in cask beer. The
craft better beers by reverting back
brewers than at any time since the
reasons for the closures and
Second World War and with 5,500
declining sales are obviously varied
different real ales brewed regularly
and complex, but the bottom line
in the UK, including bitters, porters,
is that beer in pubs has become
stouts, brown ales, American-style
expensive and when that beer is
pale ales, milds and barley wines,
organisation has gone on to become a model local business, recently being named Taste of the West’s “South West producer of the year”. One advantage of small-scale operations is in giving brewers the flexibility to experiment with new styles, revive defunct ones and produce short runs of seasonal beers. For instance, Otter Mild was created to support efforts in re-establishing
there is arguably more
the long forgotten “mild” style, once
choice than ever before. It
Mighty Hop and Town Mill breweries.
the most popular beer in Britain,
is a triumph for good old-
East Devon’s own renaissance
and Branscombe Vale brewed the strong ale Salvage Special to mark
fashioned localism; unlike
arguably began when, after many
the homogenised lager
years employed at mega-brewer
the infamous event in 2007 when
market where the same
Whitbread, David McCaig became
scavengers descended on its local
few beers are available up and down the land are once again offering their own unique selection of regional ales to sample. Artist Jane Cope’s impression of Topsham Ales’ modest brewing operation
bland, mass-produced lager, such
With
around
photo: Nigel Cheffers-Heard
nationwide, good pubs
30
microbreweries, Devon is one of the UK’s craft brewing
expense is becoming hard for punters
heartlands and, given its enviable
to justify.
treasure trove of traditional country
However, while general beer sales
pubs, also one of the best places to
have plummeted, sales of cask-
enjoy this real ale revival. Besides
conditioned beer – namely unfiltered
Otter Brewery in the Blackdown
and unpasteurised beer that is
Hills, the East Devon and Exeter
brewed using natural ingredients
area boasts the Branscombe Vale
and allowed to mature naturally in
Brewery in Branscombe, O’Hanlon’s
the cask, from which it is served
in Whimple, The Exeter Brewery
without any extraneous gas – have
in Exminster and Topsham Ales
grown by 25 per cent in the last five
in Topsham, several more on the
disillusioned with its industrial-
beach to plunder cargo washed ashore
years. It seems people can still be
outskirts, including Exe Valley in
sized operation and decided he could
from the beached vessel MS Napoli.
East Devon Coast & Country
66
The local breweries all produce a
nearby orchard, and Branscombe
Canal. Even its own name choice may
winter beer, with this year’s Festival
Vale dug its own well to capture the
have been in recognition of being the
behind the town’s historic Globe
of Winter Ales in Exeter featuring
pure spring water running beneath
first brewery to represent the city
Hotel, this fledgling microbrewery
the brewery buildings.
Mass-produced beer could be from anywhere - “Belgian” Stella Artois is brewed in Wales, “French” Kronenbourg in Reading
to 2009. Set up in a storage unit
since the closure of the St Annes Well
is a cooperative owned by its local
and Heavitree breweries over forty
shareholders with a share of its
Founded in 2003, The Exeter Brewery
years ago. While there may be a few
profits going towards supporting
embodies its local environment not
still surviving city breweries across
community projects.
only in its use of local ingredients, but
the UK, the idea of a “community
All this positive growth doesn’t mean
also in the way its beer is marketed;
brewery” is like something from
to say it’s onward and upwards for
its organic ale Avocet and premium
a bygone golden age when small,
small breweries in the region – they
ale Ferryman take inspiration from
sustainable local industries were
still need our support to survive. So
the brewery’s location in a RSPB
the norm, but Topsham Ales is
next time you visit the local be sure
nature reserve beside the Exeter Ship
exactly that and yet only dates back
to order a local beer!
A Round Up of LOCAL BEST
& THE BEST LOCALS IN WHICH TO SAMPLE THEM O’Hanlons’ Goodwill Bitter, Exeter’s Falls Over and Branscombe Vale’s Yo Ho Ho With Rum. The modest size of the microbrewery is no better defined by Branscombe Vale Brewery, which was set up in 1992 on Great Seaside Farm in renovated cowsheds, leased from the National Trust. Its best bitter recently received the honour of being named the house ale for awardwinning dining pub The Lazy Toad in Brampford Speke, emphasising that good food and good beer make fine dinner companions. Although much maligned as an unsophisticated beverage, beer can be every bit as complex and interesting as wine, and if chosen well, can enhance the flavours on the plate. The Five Bells Inn in Clyst Hydon has even used O’Hanlons’ Port Stout in its celebrated steak pie. Although not a native to the area, having started life in London before relocating to a farm just outside Whimple in 2000, O’Hanlon’s has quickly established itself as a wellregarded East Devon brewery known across the world – and its connection to the area is strengthened by its use of local produce. W hereas mass-produced beer
• The stone floored 14th century local,
The Fountain Head (pictured right), situated at the western end of the snaking village of Branscombe, is an ideal spot to sample the local brewery’s smooth chestnut brown ale Draymans Best, which has a smooth chocolate aroma, and flavours of dark fruits and hedgerow hops.
• With its zesty pineapple and banana aroma, hoppy and malty taste, and dry, bittersweet finish, O’Hanlon’s Yellow Hammer has quickly become a favourite summer refreshment. Where better to sample this golden ale than in the tranquil surrounds of The Turf pub (pictured left) overlooking the Exe Estuary and the Turf Locks.
• The Otter Brewery’s own Honiton dining pub, The Holt (pictured right), is the place to sample the full range of Otter beers, with our recommendation being the award-winning strong ale Otter Head, notable for its “distinct barley wine, old ale character” – but also keep an eye out for a reappearance of the celebrated but elusive Otter Mild. • A recent arrival to the sandy shores of Exmouth, bistro pub The Grapevine (left) has already established itself as a premier spot for Devon beers, due to a brilliant idea of showcasing the fullrange of a regional brewery for a set period. If you manage to catch Exeter Brewery’s month in the limelight then sample their malty, copper-coloured golden ale ‘Fraid Not.
could literally be from anywhere – “Belgian” lager Stella Artois is brewed in South Wales for the UK market, for example, while “French” Kronenbourg 1664 is brewed in Reading – microbreweries are often steeped in their surroundings by their use of local produce in the brewing process; O’Hanlon’s’ Avalon Harvest
• As a nascent operation still in the development phase, Topsham Ales has yet to settle on its own standard range of beers. However, during this exciting experimental period, the latest brews from the community brewery are available to try at Topsham’s Globe Hotel and legendary, Queen-endorsed, ale mecca, The Bridge (right).
Ale is flavoured with plums from a
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
67
To tie or not to tie with Alan Riddell
T
he art of combining wool , wire and poultry feathers to create something that we believe we can use to outwit fish, has been in existence for centuries. Despite the fact that the most effective flies have probably been invented and come into popular usage many years ago, anglers still try to create something they believe hasn’t been seen before – either by the fish or other anglers. It is very definitely an achievement to catch a trout on a fly that you have tied yourself, but it can be quite a journey before that happens. The winter evenings can also pass much quicker when tying and it always creates an air of anticipation waiting for the season to start.
There are, however, a few questions that need to be addressed before that decision to tie is reached, and a cheap way of obtaining flies is not one of the answers. The one overriding element in tying your own is “choice”, and this where you are able to use the correct hook and materials required for a particular pattern. An important issue is whether you have a good environment to work in as it can be discouraging if you have to spend a great deal of time getting everything out and clearing up every time. Of course, good lighting is important but a decent angle poise lamp with a daylight bulb is usually adequate. I have been fortunate to have a very tolerant wife and have managed to get away with tying within sight of the television! I am afraid that very rough hands are not good as I have
Alan Riddell - fly tying, with Jack Jones keeping an eye on proceedings! seen material shredded before it has reached the hook by “abused hands” trying to handle it. My hands have not really had to suffer “hard work” and also, being a musician of sorts, I have been able to preserve them. In addition, with the aging process there can be a deterioration in eyesight, but if you are not sure, have an eye test and take it from there, as headaches generated by eye-strain are just not worth it.
Having made the decision that you will now take up the challenge you have set yourself, you should try and avoid some of the pitfalls when it comes to choice of tools and materials. Over the years, engineers have created wonders of their art to hold the hook whilst tying, costing in excess of £200. The majority of vices, irrespective of cost, tend to rely on the lever principle and a cam to close the jaws, but I do tend to prefer the reverse principle. I use one which has the jaws permanently closed under pressure and they are opened by a lever similar to that of a motor-cycle clutch, and this vice allows me to change hook size without any adjustment and it will hold hooks from size 20 up to at least 5/0 . That really does cover everything you might need from small stream dry flies up to saltwater or pike flies. From a commercial point of view it also saves time, but from a novice tier’s perspective it makes holding the hook a simple operation which does not detract from the actual tying process. This vice retails at less than £50.
Scissors are probably one of the most abused items not just in fly tying but quite often in life generally and subsequently it is wise to invest in a good pair of fine curved scissors for the routine work, but have a cheaper straight pair for cutting
heavier materials such as heavy wire or quill stems. Other tools are really a matter of choice and need according to what you are tying. A whip finish tool and hackle pliers are usually the next requirements. The major difficulty arises though in choosing hooks and materials. Over recent years there have been many developments with synthetics as some of the natural materials in use at the turn of the 20th Century are either protected or extinct. There are however, still some natural items that are the by-product of either pest control or the food chain, but if you
Fly in the process of being tied East Devon Coast & Country
68
are offered squirrel tails, pheasant tails or similar “wild” items, they must be disinfected and dried properly. I have lost expensive feathers through unexpected visitors migrating in drawers, and moth balls here are essential and can be obtained in crystal form for fly tying. Bouts of bird ‘flu in Asia have impacted on the feather market, and stocks of the Indian style of cock and hen capes have suffered as a direct result. If you intend to tie dry flies for the rivers it is preferable to use genetic hackles. These feathers come from specially reared birds to produce stiffer, longer and more specific hackles, primarily used for high quality flies required to float high. Whilst a whole neck cape can cost in excess of £50.00 , half capes are available from some suppliers and that will help in acquiring the range of colours needed to achieve a selection of flies. There have also been packets of mixed genetic hackles which is an even more cost effective way of obtaining a selection. It is worth knowing that up to 8 flies can be tied with one single hackle from a genetic cape. You are now also in control of the foundation for the fly – the hook. There are many good makes out there, and you can be quite specific on the pattern according to the fly. In the last three years barbless hooks have become commonplace alongside catch and release fishing on more stillwaters and there are some very good patterns out there. Most “recipes” for flies will either give a specific brand and pattern number or a description of the hook most suitable for that fly and as your knowledge grows, you will develop an instinct for hooks and also your own preference for brand and style.
As you may have worked out, I have talked specifically about individual items, and that it is far better to obtain specific items that you will use. Tying kits are out there and look very nice, but cannot give you the cross section of items you require, as you will end up with materials you don’t need or even worse – tying flies you don’t really need or would use. It is therefore an essential part of the process to sit down and list your usual patterns and then the components which should culminate in a specific shopping list. I would suggest that you go to your local shop for advice if you are not sure about what you require. I hope that I have not been too negative, but I have found that most people who have thought about tying their own have actually gone out and done it. It is very much where you want to take it to, be it just to supplement the more complex patterns commercially available with simpler ones from yourself, or to reach the levels of making such realistic examples that they look like they will crawl off the table.
Getting Started Tools:
• Vice • Thread bobbin • Hackle pliers • Whip finish tool Materials: • Feathers • Tying thread ls
• Selection of wires and tinse
If you need advice on fly tying equipment or materials, Alan from The Country Sports Shop is happy to help on 01626 367171 or galanriddell@hotmail.co.uk
seatrout tube flies
Cock and hen capes twisted around the hook to form the fly hackles
The "take"
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
69
Horse Care Management by Natalie Bucklar-Green
Natalie Bucklar-Green gives valuable advice on various aspects of horse care and welfare...
Managing Fatties
are rugged they just get too round. I
is of further benefit to the horse as
even have two Thoroughbreds that
its stomach is not designed to cope
Getting a horse to lose weight can
live out all year with just lightweight
with big meals. Oil can come from
be very difficult, particularly native
rugs and no bucket feed. Yes, even
various sources but for the very thin,
types, whose metabolism seems to
Thoroughbreds can be too fat!
one of the highest energy products
thrive on fresh air. So if you have a fat pony or horse it is highly unlikely that it will need any supplementary
available is made from coconut, with
Managing Skinnies
feed other than hay during the winter.
Natalie Bucklar-Green
BSc (Hons), MSc (Equine Science)
Natalie has owned horses for over 20 years and owns East Devon Riding Academy near Sidmouth. She has previously lectured in Equine Science to degree level and produced research for preparing Great Britains' equestrian teams for the Olympics. Natalie provides consultations in all aspects of Equine Science, and has fitted saddles for competitors at Badminton International Horse Trials.
Weight Management in Winter
another from rice bran. For efficient digestion, more of a fewer number of feeds is better than less of several
Every food stuff has an energy value;
With thin horses, the first thing
different ones. Brewers yeast is also
to lose weight the horse needs to
to rule out is potential causes
a useful supplement, as it can help
be fed less energy (calories) than
of low bodyweight.
There are
encourage a healthy population of
it needs for day to day living. The
numerous reasons why a horse
gut flora and hence aid digestion
cold weather increases the energy
may be underweight, including
in the large intestine, meaning the
requirements of the horse, just as
sharp teeth, poor dentition, worms,
horse can get the most from its fibre.
exercise does, so when daylight is
stress, insufficient fibre in the
tight for many people to exercise,
diet, underlying illness or disease,
Clipping should only be done if the
use the cold to help you slim down
depression or being cold. There is
horse is in sufficient work to warrant
your horse.
also old age, although you can’t do
it. Many horses in light work can be
much about that. The other most
managed sufficiently without the
Don’t feed bucket feed, as this will
obvious thing is insufficient energy
need to clip but if the horse must
provide energy that will be turned
in the diet; to gain weight the horse
be clipped, remove only the minimal
into fat. Furthermore, don’t use rugs.
needs more energy in its diet than it
amount of hair. Horses being ridden
People like to think of their horse
requires for living, so the extra energy
once or twice a week do not need to
snuggled up in a thick rug but this
is turned to fat.
be clipped out.
is anthropomorphism and for a fat horse this is one of the biggest
The horse’s digestive system is
Whether your horse is fat, thin or
Winter brings a whole new set of
mistakes you can make. The horse
evolved to utilise fibre as the main
just right, it can be a good idea to
challenges to horsemanship, in
will use the rug to keep warm, not
food source, the basis of the diet
monitor its weight by weekly use
particular, weight management is a
its body fat, and hence will stay fat.
should therefore be ad lib forage,
of a weightape. This will help you
skill required by anyone who looks
It has been shown that rugging
with additional energy being
notice any changes more quickly
after horses and it’s not always easy.
reduces heat loss in cold weather
provided by bucket feed. Another
and then adjust the diet and rugging
In the wild, horses will naturally slim
by 18%. It wouldn’t be very nice to
reason to feed plenty of fibre is
accordingly. It is also a good idea to
down during the colder months,
suddenly strip off a horse used to
that more heat is produced during
feel for the ribs, not just going by
after putting on weight during the
wearing lots of rugs but carried out
its digestion than from any other
sight, as fluff y winter coats can easily
summer. It isn’t a bad thing to drop
gradually it can be done. A fat horse
nutrient, thus warming the horse
hide a thin horse. The aim should be
some weight during winter, in fact
should only need a lightweight rug
from within. For bucket feeds, it
to easily feel the ribs, without having
many domesticated horses need to.
when it is raining and it doesn’t need
is better to feed low starch, high
to poke to find them, nor be able to
On the other end of the spectrum,
a rug in the stable. If cold and dry,
oil feeds to minimise digestive
play a tune on them. Maintaining a
some horses can rapidly lose weight
my horses are naked! Unfortunately I
disturbances and potential excitable
horse in a healthy condition all year
in the cold and need extra help to
have four grey ponies, who all being
behaviour. Oil is also very energy
round can be a challenge but with
maintain condition.
native breeds are well designed to
dense, containing approximately
good monitoring and appropriate
turn food into fat. I therefore have
two and a half times more energy
management it can be done. Happy
to put up with them being brown for
than cereals per kg of feed. This
riding.
six months of the year because if they
helps keep meal sizes small, which
Natalie x
East Devon Coast & Country
70
EQUINE EVENTS Dec 12 - Jan 13
HEATING yOur HOME THIs wINTEr
7th Dec - Raceday, Exeter Racecourse 16th Dec - Bicton Arena unaffiliated dressage 22nd Dec - Bicton College Christmas Fun Show jumping 1st Jan - Raceday, Exeter Racecourse 13th Jan - Exeter and District RC, dressage, Wellbeck, Farringdon 13th Jan - Sid and Otter Valley RC, flatwork training, Bicton College
SELECTED 25KG BAGS OF COAL
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2nd Dec - Bicton College unaffiliated Dressage
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27th Jan - Sid and Otter Valley RC, dressage, Bicton College
Medium Reading for individuals and groups
If you have any equine events you wish to promote, please email: events@prestige-media.co.uk
Call 01404 43522
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Situated near Sidmouth, East Devon 07771 903220
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
71
The Sea Swimmers (aka The East Devon Babes) The story behind three ladies, the sea and a challenge of the cross channel relay
Life Matters Balancing the stresses of work and living with health and relaxation
that we were 3rd position to swim within the dates of 30th June - 6th July 2013. The reality of our challenge started to sink in and we thought it was high time to meet the professionals and decide what charity to raise money for.
Life Matters Editor - Averil Quinain coachingholistic@gmail.com tel: 01395 513383 07891 447710 Averil is a Personal Life Coach and Business Development Coach. She works voluntarily for the Princes Trust as a mentor for young people, and for Oxfam as a school speaker. With a passion for inspired and responsible living, she also runs an organic natural remedy business. Averil trained at the internationally renowned CoachInc.com and is a member of the ICF.
Do you know an inspiring person who would share their story? Are you involved in a project that is making a difference to people’s lives? Contact me using the details above. I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Do you have anything interesting to tell us about? We re particulary keen to hear from local charities and voluntary organisations about the good work they carry out in the com munity. We d also like to hear from practitioners in the East Devon, Exeter and West Dorset area about
their treatments and serv
ices.
Do you have courses or group sessions you're running in the area, register now to get free promotion for these. Email us at charlotte@ prestige-media.co.uk
Jo, Kathy and Kate ready to brave the water
K
ate, Kathy and I (Jo), love to sea swim and think there is no better therapy than a good dip - even in the middle of winter! Our cross Channel relay challenge has been inspired by this passion for the sea and our friendship. Outdoor swimming has had a bit of a revival in recent years and for us it all started over two and a half years ago after a chance meeting with a triathlon club at our local pool, who trained in the sea from April to September. We decided to join them so that we could experience the thrill of sea swimming and loved it so much that when they returned to the pool in September, we decided to ditch the wetsuits and stay in the sea. The feeling of water against the skin and being at one with nature is magical and truly liberating. There is space and distance from everyday troubles and in the water we feel that we are essentially part of the beautiful world around us. The open water community is surprisingly large and at Sidmouth, which is our regular swimming territory, we have been lucky to meet a number of like-minded individuals, all united in their passion for an open water fix. There was slight trepidation as our first winter sea swimming season approached and the water temperature began to drop. We had decided to take part in the annual Sidmouth Boxing Day dip to raise funds for our children’s PTFA and had pledged that we would stay in the sea and swim for at least 10 minutes wearing only bikinis. At the time (in September, when the water temperature is normally at its warmest!!) we had felt that this was a realistic goal but we had not anticipated that we would be experiencing the coldest winter on record with the sea water temperature plunging to a bitterly cold 6.5 degrees C. However we proved good entertainment for the locals as we undertook our
acclimatisation training in our bikinis with comments such as, “Are you mad?” and “You’re not really going to get into the sea wearing just that?!” alongside general sniggers as people watched us entering the sea with screams, some swearing and wearing woolly hats over our swim hats in a bid to stay a little warmer, (no, it doesn’t work!). Only Kathy, who seemed to a get a natural ‘high’ from the freezing temperatures was able to walk straight in with no apparent discomfort, with Kate and I taking a little longer to embrace the arctic conditions. We managed to complete our Boxing Day pledge and looked forward to spring and warmer waters. It wasn’t long, however, before another challenge was on the cards, with Kate suddenly announcing on one particularly warm and calm spring day, “It’s always been my dream to swim the Channel, perhaps we should do a relay”. Ignorance is bliss and Kathy and I both readily accepted Kate’s proposal, what had we let ourselves in for...? Before we knew it, the boat had been booked and the date set, we were told
Exmouth Swimming and Lifesaving Society was founded in 1983. Lessons and water polo were regularly taught in Exmouth Docks seasonally, before the club moved to the salt water on Exmouth sea front. The club moved to its current base at Exmouth Leisure Centre’s pool when the pool was publicly funded in 1985. The club has a strong open water squad, including a number of Channel swimmers and organises two annual open water swims a year. From April to September they undertake their sea swim training at Budleigh Salterton. We had been given the names of a couple of people to speak to within the Society, but it took us a while to pluck up the courage to actually make contact, as their reputation for training elite swimmers was a known fact and we felt like the poor relations in comparison. How wrong we were, as both the swimmers and coaches couldn’t have made us feel more welcome, when we literally turned up one April Sunday morning at Budleigh Salterton to join them for training. Their expertise, knowledge and guidance has been extremely helpful and inspired us to believe that with the correct training and preparation we can get to France! After a few months of deliberation we made a unanimous decision that Sidmouth Lifeboat would be the charity
You have to have iron resolve to swim in winter
East Devon Coast & Country
72
THERAPEUTIC COUNSELLING
HYPNOTHERAPY AND SUPERVISION
Pat Hoare
SENIOR BACP ACCREDITED COUNSELLOR AND SUPERVISOR SENIOR G.H.R. ACCREDITED HYPNOTHERAPIST 24A GANDY STREET, EXETER EX4 3LS Tel. 01392 410090 pat@pathoare.eclipse.co.uk
Acupuncture For general health problems, fertility, addictions, sports injuries, facial revitalisation acupuncture. Val Davis, B.Sc., M.B.Ac.C., Lic.Ac. 01395 578050 Chiropody
Chiropractic For gentle, effective holistic chiropractic treatment for the whole family, the Chiropractic Health Centre 01297 35844 or 01404 549270 Cognitive Hypnotherapy Let Michelle Hague help you gain control of your life. Tel 01297 20144. See display advert. Promote your practice Appear in this section for only £12 Call Nigel on 01395 512166 or email nigel@prestige-media.co.uk continued on the following page
TRIED ACUPUNCTURE?
It is well-known that Acupuncture is very effective for physical health problems. However, you don’t have to be ill, in the conventional sense, to benefit from Acupuncture. Many clients come to me for help with low energy levels, fertility issues, weight management or
The ladies, posing outside Sidmouth Lifeboat, where the proceeds of the swim will be donated
which we would raise money for in our bid to cross the Channel. We always feel reassured by the presence of the Lifeboat Station whilst swimming at Sidmouth, especially during times when the sea conditions are unfavourable. Although we always take our safety seriously and act responsibly, it is good to know that help is close by if it’s ever needed and we therefore felt that our cross Channel relay challenge would be an ideal opportunity to raise money for the Lifeboat.
Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy Clinical Hypnotherapy
addictions such as smoking. Alternatively you may just feel unwell in yourself with no ‘get up and go’ or enthusiasm for life. The good news is that Acupuncture can help restore emotional and physical well-being, so that you can get on with enjoying your life.
WHY NOT BOOK AN APPOINTMENT NOW Val Davis, B.Sc., Lic.Ac.
(Member of the British Acupuncture Council)
Clinics throughout East Devon
(01395) 578050
The Sidmouth Lifeboat is a totally independently funded lifeboat. The team work closely with the RNLI but receive no funding from them. All members of Sidmouth Lifeboat are volunteers and all the money raised is used to equip the boat and crew. The boat is operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They cover an area of approximately 150 square miles of sea between Axmouth to Budleigh Salterton. Sidmouth Lifeboat is an amazing charity that helps to keep all water users safe.
PR ACTITIONERS
Pamper your feet at The Foot Friendly Clinic, 3 Miltons Yard Axminster EX13 5FE. Phone for an appointment on 01297 625515 or 07946213310. Open Tues/Wed/ Thurs and for evening appointments by arrangement.
WANT TO FEEL FULL OF ENERGY & VITALITY?
There is now only just over 7 months to go before we undertake our challenge and we know this will fly by. So if you happen to be taking a stroll along Sidmouth promenade, keep an eye out for us. You can also find out more details about our cross channel relay challenge at the website below: www.eastdevonbabes.co.uk. -----------------------------------------------Sidmouth Lifeboat: www.sidmouthlifeboat.org.uk Exmouth Swimming & Lifesaving Society: www.exmouthswimming.org Devon and Cornwall Wild Swimming www.devonandcornwallwildswimming.co.uk The Outdoor Swimming Society www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com
Does you or your organisation do good work in the community? Do you have an interesting Life Story? Are you a therapist, practicing in East Devon/ Exeter? Do you have something to say? Would you like us to feature you or your organisation on these pages? If you do, call Charlotte Fergie on 01395 513383 or email charlotte@ prestige-media.co.uk DO YOU HAVE EVENTS THAT NEED PROMOTING, Contact Nigel for free promotion on 01395 513383
English Channel Swimming and Piloting Federation CS & PF: www.channelswimming.net
AXMINSTER
HONITON
01297 35844
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Chard Street
193 High Street
Helping you to take control of your life Help with: Anxiety, Depression, Habits, Phobias, Confidence, Stress Insomnia, Pain, IBS, CFS/ME, Trauma, Relaxation, Panic Fear, Smoking, Self-Esteem & Weight Control
Clinics in: Exeter ~ Sidmouth ~ Axminster Michelle Hague BA(Hons)Cert ed D Hyp PDC Hyp
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Chiropractic Health Centre Gentle effective holistic treatment for the whole family Richard Stenning D.C. Michael Norris D.C. Louisa Wootton D.C.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
www.wellbeingdevon.co.uk
73
The Sidmouth Blind Club You may think that Sidmouth Blind Club is patronised by dear old ducks who sit around sharing their tales of woe and misery - but not a bit of it! by Hazel Fergie
to “Call me Eric”. Henceforth, when referring to the minister “Call me Eric” was his title within the group. Tut, tut! (That’s also my sense of humour). They never did know Eric’s surname. The said Mary used to be chairwoman of a conservative ward, and when the retired servicemen discovered this, she could hear the men joking as she drew near their table “Watch it, here comes Mrs Thatcher” or “Iron lady approaching”.
More tea anyone?
T
he members have good positive attitudes and they are keen to participate in any activity the club dishes up. Often, there is fierce competition during games, especially dominoes. Bursts of laughter can frequently be heard as a member tries to cheat, oh... I mean, slide in the wrong domino, or plays out of turn. Initially, a charity concerned with the welfare and wellbeing of blind people in Devon was based in Exeter. Later, a few local clubs were established in surrounding towns, and gradually their popularity spread. After the First World War, many war blinded soldiers and servicemen needed a helpful social club where their skills could be put to good use. The local blind clubs had a large intake at this period. Consequently, there are numerous clubs for blind, and the visually impaired people around the county. Sidmouth Blind Club started in the early sixties. Margaret Bugge from Budleigh Salterton was the original organiser. Margaret was a devout Christian and had worked in very poor countries in Africa. She would be given woollen clothing for the club, and the female members, who could knit, busily unpicked the garments and made T shaped jumpers in garter stitch, picking up the next
colour as and when their balls of wool ran out. The jumpers were distributed by Oxfam to children across the world in need of warm clothing. This practical work, which continued until 1987, gave the ladies a firm feeling of usefulness. The odd TV news item showing the youngsters, playing, and wearing the unmistakable, colourful jumpers was a great source of amusement. There was, until recently, an Annual General Meeting hosted by various venues around the county, which exhibited the clubs’ crafts such as rug making, painting, baskets, crochet etc. Coach trips were arranged for activity weekends where members could, with bold colours, attempt barge painting, play bowls, tandem cycle riding (braver than I), archery, horse riding - led by helpers, swimming and much more. At Dartington Hall some members from Sidmouth club and other regional clubs would dress up and perform for our amusement. Mary who currently runs Sidmouth Blind Club, has helped for about forty years. She once told me of the time before it was a regular practice to use St Peter’s Hall, Sidford, the occasional use of other halls was required for the twice monthly meetings. The All Saints' vicar, eager to sweep aside formalities, asked Margaret
Deborah Pearce
Hypnotherapy
There have been many changes to aids which are available to blind and partially sighted people over the years. A wireless was the only audio equipment used in the beginning, and these were distributed on loan to members and free licences were given. Now C.D. players are used and gadgets that talk can be purchased from ‘Devon in Sight’ (previously known as Devon County Association for the Blind, D.C.A.B.). Our club has lost the occasional grant from the D.C.A.B. but over the years we have had support from other local organisations. One year the Lion’s Club kindly donated a wheelchair. The Lions and the Rotarians organise outings and visits to the theatre. Sidmouth Bowls Club and Waitrose have also made donations. All have enabled us enjoy outings. For our regular meetings, we are fortunate to have the use of Sidford Church Hall and Sidmouth Voluntary Services with their kind and obliging drivers. Our regular driver, Trevor, occasionally helps at the club and enjoys a game of dominoes. I am privileged to be a volunteer of Sidmouth Blind Club. There is no membership fee, and we manage a small amount of fundraising within the club. It is a relaxed support group, where laughter in the company of friends who share the same disability is important. I look forward to the club’s Christmas lunch, which this year celebrates 25 years welcomed by Roger Newton at the Blue Ball, our summer cream tea, and every meeting in-between. Oh, by the way, have you heard the joke about a blind man in a store? >
INI
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N RELinclu SULT AX des ATIO AT ION N CD
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Appointments available at: • Anxiety • Stress The Awareness Centre, Axminster • Confi dence issues Problems sleeping • • • The Good Life, Ottery St Mary • Ebdons Court Natural Health, Sidmouth • Self-hypnosis for childbirth t: 01404 813388 m: 07939 840788 Deborah Pearce HPD Clinical Hypnotherapist
e: dpearcehypno@gmail.com www.deborahpearce.co.uk DPH_0005 East Devon Coast & Country magazine Ad AW.indd 1
East Devon Coast & Country
30/04/2012 13:47
Life Matters PR ACTITIONERS Hypnotherapy Pat Hoare provides therapeutic counselling, hypnotherapy and supervision. 01392 410090. See display. Anxiety, stress, fears, phobias, weight issues? Contact clinical hypnotherapist Deborah Pearce. See display. Life Coaching Is the treadmill of your life getting faster? You want to slow down, but can't? You want to change your life/ career/reach your full potential? www.goforitlifecoaching.com or contact Averil Quinain coachingholistic@gmail.com 07891 447710 to arrange a fabulous free 30 minute taster session. Rooms for hire Does your facility have rooms for practitioners to rent, or are you a practitioner looking for space? We have a free way to promote your requirements, call Nigel on 01395 513383. Promote your practice Appear in this section for only £12 Call Nigel on 01395 512166 or email nigel@prestige-media.co.uk A blind man walks into a store with his guide dog. All of a sudden, he picks up the leash and begins swinging the dog over his head. The manager runs up to the man and asks, "What are you doing?!!" The blind man replies, "Just having a look around."
Do you have an interes ting life story to tell? If so, contact Nigel Jones so we can include you in the magazine call 01395 513383 74
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Fuel economy figures for the Note 1.4 n-tec+ 5 DOOR mpg (L/100km). Urban - 39.2 (7.2), Extra Urban - 54.3 (5.2), Combined - 47.9 (5.9), CO2 emissions 139 g/km. Juke 1.6 ACENTA 5 DOOR Urban - 36.7 (7.7), Extra Urban - 55.4 (5.1), Combined - 47.1 (6.0), CO2 emissions 139 g/km. Offers valid until 31 December 2012 at participating dealers only. Monthly payment stated on Note is for Nissan Preferences, Personal Contract Purchase. Further charges may be made subject to mileage and condition if you elect to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Quote based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charged at 6p per mile. Monthly payment stated on Juke and/or Qashqai/+2 shown is for Nissan Preferences, Personal Contract Purchase. Further charges may be made subject to mileage and condition if you elect to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Quote based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charged at 6p per mile. Our dealership introduce customers to a limited number of finance providers including RCI Financial Services Ltd. Finance providers pay us for introducing you to them. Breakdown services provided by RAC Motoring Services and/or RAC Insurance Ltd. All prices include first registration fee and 12 months road fund licence. Finance provided by RCI Financial Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ. Finance is available subject to status on eligible new vehicles in the UK. You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands) to apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Terms and Conditions apply, please visit www.nissan-offers.co.uk for further information. Information correct at time of going to print. Offers not available in conjunction with any schemes or other offers, please visit www.nissan-offers.co.uk or your local dealer for information. Model shots shown are for illustration purposes only. Models subject to availability. Note shown has metallic paint at £450 inc. VAT. Juke shown has optional metallic paint at £495 inc. VAT. Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, The Rivers Office Park, Denham Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 9YS.
DISCLAIMER - All material in this magazine is copyright. The
THE PRIORY
publishers 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.
Ottery St. Mary
Residential Care Home We provide a We provide a ‘home ‘home from home’ from home’ in a warm in a warm & friendly & friendly environment environment for for older people
older people
We provide long-term and respite care.
We For provide short-term and further information and/ arespite friendly chat long-term care. Margaret, ring Donna, MareeSpeak or Gill onto01404 812939 our manager on 01404 812939 For our Home Care Service, please call Sharon on
01404also 815511 and for our PrioryCare Day Care Centre We provide a new Home at Ottery St Mary Football Club on Tuesday and Service , please call 01404 815511 Thursday 9.30am till 3.30pm with transport available
on request and Home cooked meals, please contact Maree on 07720 681068St. forMary, further information. 10 Paternoster Row, Ottery Devon EX11 1DP Registered with Commission for Social Care Inspection, Accredited by DCC Member of Residential Care Home Trust
IF YOU'RE READING THIS, IT CLEARLY PROVES THAT ADVERTISING WORKS IN THIS HIGH QUALITY, GLOSSY, COFFEE TABLE FORMAT MAGAZINE. FOR THE COST OF A SINGLE ADVERT, YOUR BUSINESS COULD GET UP TO 2 MONTHS EXPOSURE. THE MAGAZINE HAS OVER 440+ OUTLETS ACROSS EAST DEVON, EXETER AND WEST DORSET, WITH 10,000 COPIES GOING OUT ACROSS THIS REGION. DON'T DELAY, CONTACT NIGEL ON 01395 513383 TO ADVERTISER YOUR BUSINESS.
10 Paternoster Row, Ottery St. Mary, Devon, EX11 1DP Registered with Commission for Social Care Inspection, Accredited by DCC Member of Residential Care Home Trust
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
75
DISTRIBUTION MAP
East Devon Coast & Country
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EXETER
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Walk onthethe Walk on Wildside Wildside By Wildlife Artist Mike Hughes www.mikehugheswildlifeart.co.uk
The winter months of December and January are the coldest of the year. For wildlife that does not hibernate, finding food and keeping warm is of the upmost importance. East Devon with its nutrient rich mudflats and miles of hedgerows can provide plenty of sustainance for these native creatures. The hedgerows of Devon are estimated to cover a distance of 53,000km (33,000 miles) and provide an incredible resource for all sorts of flora and fauna. Filled with nuts berries and seeds they are able to sustain numerous bird and mammal species throughout the colder months. Over 600 flowering plants, 1500 insects, 65 birds and 20 mammals have been recorded living or feeding in Devon hedges!
The Greenshank is one of many beautiful species of wading birds that arrive on our estuaries in early Autumn
This natural bounty can of course change from year to year and supplying supplementary food, particularly during cold spells, can be of critical importance. With over half the UK adult population feeding birds in their garden that is an enormous help. As well as putting out food, a supply of fresh water can be a life-saver, especially if the temperature drops below freezing. To avoid the spread of disease it is recommended that the water is changed regularly. Unfortunately not all birds can be helped in this way and some can really struggle in winter. Birds, such as the kingfisher which can’t feed if rivers and ponds are frozen can be particularly affected. During the harsh winter of 1962/1963 it is estimated that between 80 and
90 per cent of the population was lost. Along with many other species of birds, Kingfishers will often head to our estuaries over this period, where food is more plentiful. Wading birds and wildfowl also head to our estuaries, to feed on the nutrient rich mud flats. These in turn will attract raptors (birds of prey). Moorland species such as Merlin (pictured), Hen Harrier, Peregrine and Short-eared Owl can all be seen hunting over the saltmarshes throughout the winter months. These will be joined by thousands of other birds escaping the colder climates of Scandinavia and Iceland. For the latest updates on what birds are being seen where, check out : www.devonbirds.org, and www. wildlifeindevon.org.uk
Dates for the Diary Things to do in the East Devon Countryside Birds on the Exe Estuary, Peter Hall, Budleigh Salterton Wednesday 23rd January – 7.30pm Talk about identification, why birds come here, where they come from and some of their general behaviour. Speakers: John Allan and Steve Henry of the RSPB. Contact Otter Valley Association for details
Female Merlin
Meet the Birds, Black Hole Marsh, Axe Estuary Wetlands, Seaton Thursday 20th December 10am - 12 noon Telescopes and binoculars are available free of charge. Contact East Devon District Council Countryside Team for details 01395 517557 No booking required
Mike Hughes Wildlife Art I will be exhibiting at the ISCA Gallery, Budleigh Salterton from 5th December, for more details please contact me. info@mikehugheswildlifeart.co.uk
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
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Business Advice CHRISTMA S. . . the season to be jolly - so bring on the goodwill!
If your products or services can be given as gifts or are essential to enjoying the festivities then you can do very well at this time of year; of course, a little effort and planning is required. However, even if your business does not directly translate at this particular time you can still benefit from the holiday period in a variety of ways.
Written by Katina Styles, a director at Axminster Tool Centre Ltd.
T
he majority of businesses are subject to ‘seasonality’ to some degree, whether it be the summer sun, the winter ’big freeze’ or the vagrancies of school and public holidays; and of the latter, undoubtedly it is the ‘festive season’ of Christmas and New Year, which has the most impact. How Christmas affects your business calendar will obviously depend upon what you are offering your customer.
So, how best to make the most of Christmas, fuel the spirit of goodwill and gear yourself up for the New Year to follow? • Plan ahead both in terms of stock and service provision. Christmas is a defining time and your customer’s expectations will be high - let them down now and you will probably lose them; so make sure you are able to deliver on time, whether it be a much wanted gift or the installation of a new kitchen in which to prepare the Christmas dinner! • Consider ways in which you can repackage your normal offering to benefit from seasonal trading - a gift pack maybe, or a gift experience or a seasonal promotion. Don’t forget to use the opportunity to sell
more premium products; people are much more willing to spend at this time of year, even more so in the last few days when they get desperate to complete their shopping - you will be surprised at what you can sell at 4pm on Christmas Eve! • Organise your staff. Decide on your opening hours over the period and ensure you are adequately covered to meet the demand. If Christmas is a quiet time then consider a shut down or encourage staff to take their holidays so that they will be more available during your own particular busy ‘season’. If you are quiet it’s also a good opportunity to catch up on outstanding tasks or to undertake some essential maintenance work. • Cover the basics - get in as much money that is owed to you as you can before the partying begins (people have a habit of disappearing over Christmas); likewise ensure staf f have completed their responsibilities before they too disappear off on holiday; be security conscious take expensive equipment home, close the blinds; agree emergency response plans; and, especially if
you have an internet presence, have adequate ICT support in place to cope with every eventuality. • Say a few thank you’s. Christmas is a great time to thank and reward your staff, from a party to a mince pie or even a little extra in the pay packet. Don’t forget to thank your customers for their loyalty and support also, a card or gift, if appropriate, goes a long way. • Prepare for the New Year ahead; use the post Christmas period as a time to regroup, make some business resolutions - and stick to them! Galvanise your thoughts, take another look at your business plan, evaluate the previous year’s trading and put in place measures to ensure your Company continues to move forward. With all the above in place there will be plenty of goodwill all round, so you can relax and get jolly in the full knowledge that you have exploited the ‘festive season’ to the max and have yourself a very Happy Christmas! Katina Styles Axminster Tool Centre Ltd
THE CREAM OF THE CROP New Beginnings - Jacdor Wool Inspired by the wonderful qualities of a raw material to be found on my door step and the enthusiasm of our local producers, the foundations for a new venture were laid with the help of family and friends. Through my creative enterprise Jacdor Wool, I'm striving to give our native and rare breeds a new lease of life in the promotion of my Jurassic Blend yarns and unique range of hand crafted products. The Jurassic Blends collection brings to you the rich natural colours and differing textures of the many breeds of sheep to be found along the Jurassic coast. The fleece is purchased direct from the farm gate for processing into knitting and weaving yarns. The finished yarn is then woven into Jacdors unique chunky twills, Dorset plaids and home furnishing weaves, using traditional Finish looms, or beautifully packaged by hand into Jacdors special range of kits and gifts.
The first collection of Easy Knit Kits for home crafting, Yarns, and Hand woven bags, cushions and rugs includes yarns from the creamy white Dorset Poll, the rich dark chocolate of Zwartble, Manx Loaghtans Autumnal shades, and the subtle grey-brown palette of the Jacobs. New varieties will be added to the collection as they are sourced and 2013 will see the introduction of the Gotland, Hebridean, Portland and Devon Long wool. As I make my journey into new beginnings I would like to show you, along the way, the breeds of sheep used in Jacdor wool designs and introduce those who work to maintain their presence in our landscape. All Jacdor Wool Kits and Gifts are available on-line and hand crafted bags and home furnishings are currently made to order.
East Devon Coast & Country
Andrea Cunningham, Jacdor Wool 01297 631538 www.jacdorwool.co.uk
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The DIRECTORY... ACCOUNTANTS
To be included in The DIRECTORY call Nigel on 01395 513383
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The DIRECTORY...
South Devon
Peter Findlay
Tax Consultant & Business Adviser 01395 568568 peter_findlay@btconnect.com
Coast & Country
Unit 2, Dotton Farmstead, Newton Poppleford, Sidmouth.
Tax returns
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from ÂŁ130 (plus VAT)
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CHARTERED TAX ADVISER
from ÂŁ210 (plus VAT) Covering all areas of accountancy - accounts preparation, tax returns, VAT, book-keeping, payroll, company and new business set-ups. Providing a friendly service for a variety of businesses large and small. Fixed fees, free initial consultation.
Display Sales Person Required If you are self-motivated, would like to work from the comfort of your own home and have a computer and telephone, please contact us regarding a permanent, 3 day a week sales position for our South Devon Coast & Country magazine. Contact Nigel on: nigel@prestige-media.co.uk or 01395 513383
EVENT ORGANISERS
When emailing the magazine, please ensure you forward on your name and telephone number.
EVENT ORGANISERS Are you responsible for promoting events for your club, charity, association, organisation or business? If you are, then it may be worth contacting this magazine as we have a regular What's On section at the front of this magazine where your entity may be able to gain event exposure. Entry into the What's On section is free of charge, and reaches a large audience across East Devon, Exeter and West Dorset. You can contact us regarding Events on: events@prestige-media.co.uk When emailing the magazine, please ensure you give us your name, telephone number and entity name.
LOGISTIC SERVICES
Sidmouth, EX10 9PU Tel: 01395 514642 Fax: 08712 473902 info@southwestshipping.com www.southwestshipping.com SHIPPING MADE SIMPLE - YOUR LOCAL ANSWER We offer top quality service 24/7 for individuals and businesses to export or import items by sea, air, road and courier. All the friendly free advice you need from start-up to completion of the whole process. From an envelope to a full house move, a watch sample to a full theatre seating installation. Cars, boats and caravans, all handled with care. Guaranteed transparency, honesty and integrity at all times to ensure that you get the best service/cost combination every time.
AD-INV1 Honiton 91x133_Layout 1 06/02/2012 11:26 Page 1
FINANCIAL
Not everyone knows we do investments. We do. Call 01404 42051 for a quote or pop into the office to talk to us at NFU Mutual Office, The Manor House, High Street, Honiton, Devon EX14 1LJ. NFU Mutual Financial Consultants advise on NFU Mutual products and services and in special circumstance those of other providers.
We do right by you
Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
79 East Devon Coast & Country
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Independent Financial Adviser Celebrating 20 years of Business in East Devon
Helen has been advising clients in the East Devon area for the past 20 years and specialises in the provision of retirement and investment advice.
MANAGING your MONEY Make sure you get the ďŹ nancial advice you need - important changes are happening next year You may have heard in the news or read in the press about the advent of the retail distribution review known as RDR and wondered what this is all about. This new regime comes into force next year and there are some important changes that you should know about. From 1st January 2013 the new RDR rules come into force around the way you receive financial advice. There are 3 main changes - more transparent charges, higher qualifications and a clearer distinction between the different types of advice.
Charges
These aren't radical changes because consumers have always paid for financial advice. From January charges will be clearer and customers will have the opportunity to pay either a fee directly or to pay from investments. You can choose the best option for you. The rule change won't affect existing commission before 31st December 2012 - but if you need more advice and or if any changes are needed then an independent
Need help managing your investments? Our practice can provide risk graded advisory portfolios and a regular valuation and monitoring service using the latest technology. We specialise in this service.
Approaching or in retirement? For those approaching or in retirement, ensure that all your options have been considered. We research the whole market to find the most suitable annuity and retirement options. We specialise in this service.
Her firm also provides a specialist annuities service for people approaching retirement and newly retired, which operates nationally. To find out more about her practice, you can view her company website at: www.richmondindependent.co.uk 01395 512166
Helen Mulvaney
BA (Hons), Dip M, DipPFS Proprietor of Richmond Independent
RECENT NEWS *Helen's * recently been awarded the DipPFS
adviser cannot receive new commission but a fee can be agreed. Once again, the fee can either be paid from the investment itself or directly.
Type of Advice
Advisers will be either independent or restricted, depending on the nature of advice they provide. Make sure that you know the type of advice you are receiving.
Independent advisers - will mean offering advice on all the financial products available in the market, without any restrictions or bias towards a particular product provider. Richmond Independent will be offering full independent advice as we believe this is the most beneficial for our clients. Restricted advisers - will focus their advice on a specific range of products. This may be because they specialise in one area only or because they work with a selected range of product providers. Your adviser will need to tell you
East Devon Coast & Country
which type of service they are offering and explain any restrictions.
Higher Qualifications
From 2013 all advisers will be required to hold a higher minimum qualification. From January all financial advisers will have to hold qualifications set at level 4. Advisers will also have to spend at least 35 hours per year studying as part of their continuing professional development. They will also be required to sign up to the Financial Service Authority`s (FSA) code of ethics. We have always aimed to offer clients quality advice and believe that the new changes will further enhance consumer experience so that professional, quality advice is available to you locally. For more details - and to ask about how we can help please phone Helen Mulvaney (Richmond Independent) on 01395 512166. Richmond Independent is a trading name of Investment & Financial Solutions Partnership LLP which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
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Innovators by Nature. Pioneers in engineering excellence. Since 1968, Majestic has been leading the way in premium glass shower screens and enclosures. More than forty years later our commitment to elegant, timeless and understated design remains as strong as ever. A Majestic shower is an icon of beauty. It possesses an exacting, aesthetic quality all of it’s own - one that transcends superficial fads and trends. Whether you seek a sanctuary of calm or refreshing invigoration; Majestic lets your imagination run free. Large or small, modern minimalism or classing opulence; our bespoke shower collection will transform your bathroom and enhance your home. In fact, life-long satisfaction is the only thing that comes as standard.
5 The Venture Centre, Yeoford Way, Marsh Barton, Exeter, EX2 8LB
Tel: 01392 823030 info@devonbathroomcentre.co.uk www.devonbathroomcentre.co.uk
A Celebration of Life in East Devon
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Marine Parade Lyme Regis
Al fresco dining breakfast coffee cappuccino snacks lunch cream teas sandwiches dinner & drinks Daily 8.30am til late
Winter opening times vary, please call for details
t: 01297 442059 e: info@lymebayleaf.co.uk A Celebration of Life in East Devon www.lymebayleaf.co.uk
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