South Devon Coast and Country Magazine Dec 12

SOUTH DEVON December 2012/ January 2013

Covering South Devon

FREE

TIA RE N T ME DE E CEN EN! P R CA OW O N

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South Devon Coast & Country

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10

Walk on the 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 16 does not hibernate, finding food and keeping warm is of the upmost importance. South Devon with its nutrient rich mudflats and miles of hedgerows can provide plenty of sustainance for these native creatures.

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The Greenshank is one of many beautiful species of wading birds that arrive on our estuaries in early Autumn

Contents Dec-Jan

ISSUE NO 4

4. Forthcoming Events

36. Walk on the Wildside

Find out what's on in South Devon.

Wildlife in winter by artist Mike Hughes.

8. Live Music Roundup

38. Cool Recovery

Get the info on local live music.

Martin and Claudia share their story.

10. Art Gallery What's On

40. Sherlock's Last Case

Art gallery events and Art Blog.

Dates for the Diary By regular contributor John Fisher.

14. Christmas Shopping

Things in the South Devon Countryside 42to. do Brunel's Failed Venture

Ideas for the feastive season.

By& Carol Schaessens.

Wildlife History Walk, ‘Cirl Buntings and Dartmoor Wembury Beach Car Park ponies’, Boxing Day Walk, RSPB Sunday 9th December 10am - 1pm Labrador Bay Nature Reserve Find out more. about the wildlife and Wednesday 26th December history of this beautiful landscape - 12.30pm Business stars from the 9.30am region. on the edge of the Plymouth Sound Help provide a Christmas feast for with guide Martin Gooderson.

Cirl Bintings and Dartmoor ponies.

Adults £4 Children Meet at Teignbridge District Council . £2 Contact South Devon AONB for details Car Park Important changes in the coming year.

Members free, non members £3

16. Creatively Christmas Amanda Crump shares her home tips.

24. Highlights of Torquay By our resident historian Ted Gosling.

28. Glorious Cyprus!

Tim Perryman pays a brief visit.

Female Merlin

46 Cream of the Crop

CONTRIBUTORS

Nigel Jones, Mike Hughes, FCR Esgen, John Fisher, Amanda Crump, Ted Gosling, Charlotte Fergie, Carol Schaessens, Jill Cooke.

MAGAZINE

Editor and publisher: Nigel Jones tel. 01395 513383 email: nigel@prestige-media.co.uk Advertising call: 01395 568025 vivienne@prestige-media.co.uk or 01395 513383 By post: 6 Bennetts Hill, Sidmouth EX10 9XH

SOUTH DEVON December 2012/ January 2013

48 Money Manaement

Slapton Sands

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

Covering South Devon

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

Cover photo: Nick Shepherd, South Devon Photos

FREE

All images copyright N.Jones unless otherwise credited

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Arriving later in December 2012, our new showroom display of bedroom systems from Nolte Mรถbel.

Call us for further details.

Beauty Sleep

The Back Centre, Erme Court, Leonards Road, Ivybridge, Devon, PL21 0SZ t: 01752 893414 e: sales@backcentre.co.uk

w: www.backcentre.co.uk

Editor's Letter A warm welcome to the South Devon Coast & Country magazine, the only regional publication solely for South Devon.

The cold winter months are great if you like milling around the home, watching the re-runs, planning holidays for the coming year and spending time with the family.

Brisk cold walks along frosty paths, followed by the rapid retreat to the house (or pub), and hot Sunday roasts (beef or nut!) - winter really shouldn't be undervalued!

We're on the lookout for someone to help with this 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

South Devon Coast & Country

Event Organisers - if you're responsible for promoting your club, charity, association, etc., please make contact so we can add you onto our system for event listings - this can help you gain extra promotion for your organisation.

Advertising - If you wish to receive more information about this magazine, please contact: vivienne@prestige-media.co.uk We hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Kind regards, Nigel Jones (Editor)

2

Where will you find some of the best surgeons in the UK for your hip or knee op? According to the Daily Mail, they’re in Exeter.

Exeter, right on your doorstep, is an internationally renowned centre of excellence for Orthopaedic surgery. Several Exeter-based Consultants were named when the Daily Mail canvassed the views of leading surgeons, asking them who they would refer to if their own nearest and dearest needed surgery.

A hip or knee replacement can give you a new lease of life.

It’s a big decision and you need to feel confident in your surgeon.

Call Exeter Hospital on 01392 262110 or visit nuffieldhealth.com/ exeterhospital to find out how you can choose to be treated by one of the UK’s best surgeons.

You couldn’t be in better hands.

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

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DICK WHITTINGTON at THEATRE ROYAL

WARRIORS of the PLAINS at GALLERY 21, RAMM

HAIRY BIKERS at PRINCESS THEATRE



December 2012 & January 2013

Forthcoming Events Xmas Events CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR Until 2nd Dec - An Aladdin’s Cave of wonderful gift ideas and essential Christmas items, Westpoint Arena, 9.30am-5.30pm.

ELEMENTS CHRISTMAS EVENT 1st Dec - With over 80 stalls, the aim is to be the largest alternative Christmas shopping experience in the South West!

The Plymouth Guildhall.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION DAY 1st Dec - Join us for a day of Christmas festivities! Carol singers, free mulled wine and more. Devon Guild of Craftsmen.

CANDLELIT DARTMOUTH 1st Dec - Christmas light switch on, late night shopping, entertainment and more!

CHRISTMAS AT PENNYWELL FARM 1st to 24th Dec - Join the Pennywell animals for Nativity Plays (booking essential) and visit Santa and his reindeer. Pennywell Farm.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL EVE 4th, 11th and 18th Dec - This year the Late Night Shopping is being redesigned to cater better for the large numbers of people attending and to appeal to families with small children, Totnes.

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING IN NEWTON ABBOT 5th, 12th and 19th Dec - Town Centre.

'ALL THINGS LOVELY' FOR CHRISTMAS 6th Dec - Over 20 stalls to find that unusual Christmas present you won't

find on the High Street! FREE entry and a charity raffle. Edgemoor Hotel, Bovey Tracey. 5-9.30pm.

SHALDON CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET 6th and 13th Dec - A magical evening along the Strand in Shaldon. From 6-9pm.

CHRISTMAS DEMILLY DE BAERE CRUISE 8th Dec - Join the flagship vessel, the Dart Explorer, for this truly wonderful cruise on the river Dart to celebrate the festive season. Dartmouth.

KINGSBRIDGE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS 8th Dec - Bigger than ever before, it is designed to make your Christmas shopping trip an enjoyable one.

GREAT WEST SANTA RUN 9th Dec - 1.25 miles, in aid of Dream-AWay, Exeter.

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 12th Dec - A range of unique and individual shops along Plymouth Barbican are staying open with festive food and drink to accompany the night.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT 15th Dec - With Bucks Fizz on arrival & a delicious 3 course meal, topped off with coffee & mints this Party Night is the perfect festive treat. Plymouth Albion, Plymouth. £29.95 per person.

FESTIVE FUN AND CHRISTMAS CHEER 20th Dec - Exeter Race Course.

THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS 21st to 23rd Dec - Celebrate the season of enchantment at Lupton House, Brixham. 01803 845800.

Festivals FROM DEVON WITH LOVE 15th to 26th Jan - 2-week festival showcasing the work of Devon’s emerging theatre makers, The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter.

LAUGH OUT LOUD FESTIVAL 19th Jan to 10th Feb - Exeter’s exciting comedy festival with stand-up, slapstick and open mic, various venues.

WINTER WARMED 29th Jan to 16th Feb - Beckett’s Endgame as centrepiece of three-week drama festival, The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.

MAIN EVENTS ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR 1st Dec - The Band of Her Royal Majesty's Royal Marines presents festive music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers in their music spectacular. Princess Theatre, Torquay.

7.30pm. £18-22.

THE GUILD OF CHEESEMAKERS 8th and 9th Dec - taste artisan cheeses, taste wine and question the future of humanity in this multi-sensory cabaret, Northcott Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.

NEW YEAR’S DAY RACING 1st Jan - Exeter Race Course.

South Devon Coast & Country

LOCAL EVENTS CIVIC CAROL CONCERT 11th Dec - Join us for an annual carol concert, Riviera International Centre, Torquay. 7.30pm.

MAYORS CAROL SERVICE 12th Dec - St Leonard's Clock Tower, Newton Abbot. 7-7:30pm.

CAROLS AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE 20th Dec - Mulled wine, mince pies & hot chocolate, Whitestrand car park. 6pm.

STANBOROUGH CHORUS CAROLS FOR ALL 24th to 27th Dec - St Edmunds, Kingsbridge.

RNLI BOXING DAY WALK IN THE SEA 26th Dec - All funds raised are for the Teignmouth RNLI Lifeboat. Sea Front by the Teignmouth Pier. Begins 10.15am.

SHALDON'S BOXING DAY THREE-LEGGED FANCY DRESS RACE 26th Dec - Join in the festive fun at Shaldon's race around the village pubs.

NEW YEAR MURDER MYSTERY PARTY 29th Dec - Price: £37.95 to include 3-course dinner and entertainment. Venue: The Weary Ploughman Inn at Churston. Time: 7pm.

THE NEW YEAR’S EVE BALLYHOO BALL 31st Dec - dress to impress for a red carpet night, Exeter Castle, 8pm.

STOKE GABRIEL WASSAIL 19th Jan - The traditional cider apple blessing celebration in Stoke Gabriel's community orchard and Church Walk.

4.30pm.

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December 2012 & January 2013

Forthcoming Events Dartington FOOD PRODUCERS' MARKET Last Sun - A brand new market has started at The Shops at Dartington.

JOHN SHILITOE JAZZ 8th Dec - With Dan Brazier the juggler and magic man. The Shops at Dartington.

CHRISTMAS FAIR WEEKENED 8th and 9th Dec - Filled with craft stalls, mulled wine/chestnuts, entertainment and a visit by Santa on both days, and more activities going on in the individual shops. The Shops at Dartington.

JOHN SHILITOE JAZZ 9th Dec - As above plus a visit by the Ashburton singers who will entertain with traditional carols. The Shops at Dartington.

THE DARTINGTON MORRIS MEN 15th Dec - Will be performing at 1pm.

The Shops at Dartington.

TRADITIONAL CAROLS 22nd Dec - Sung by the Torbay Singers and music from the Peninsula clarinet choir. The Shops at Dartington.

BLING THE PANTOMINE 24th, 26th Dec - The first ever traditional family Panto. Full of laughter, songs and dances in the Barn Theatre, Dartington.

2.30pm. Tickets £7.50.

Comedy RAW COMEDY Fortnightly (Saturday) - Come and join us at the Barnfield for a night packed full of laughter and raw talent from national and local stand-ups alike. Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 8pm, £11.

Childrens' Entertainment THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS 1st to 8th Dec - No performance on Sunday. Little Theatre, Torquay. 7.30pm.

pantomime promises to entertain, delight and bring the magic of Christmas to everyone of any age. Princess Theatre, Torquay. Various times. £11.50-£23.50.

MOTHER GOOSE 21st Dec to 2nd Jan - A hilarious traditional family pantomime. Palace Theatre, Paignton. 2.30 and 7.30pm. £9.50-£11.50.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 28th to 31st Dec - A classic pantomime for all the family. The Flavel, Dartmouth.

DICK WHITTINGTON 6th Jan - Wonder Productions brings to the stage the story of Whittington and his cat Tommy on their quest to seek fame and fortune in the city of London. Palace Theatre, Paignton.

Fairs

DICK WHITTINGTON 14th to 19th Dec - Starring Christopher Biggins as Sarah The Cook and Basil Brush as Alderman Foxwarren. Theatre Royal, Plymouth.

ALL THINGS VINTAGE & LOVELY FAIR 1st Dec - Over 60 Vintage inspired stalls.

Catwalk, nostalgic foodhall, carol singing, Santa's grotto. Charity raffle in aid of Help the Heroes. £1.50 entry. Call 01803 213837 for more details. 10.30am-4.30pm.

CINDERELLA 14th Dec to 6th Jan - This year's

ST NICKS FAIR 1st Dec - Always gets the Christmas

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

season off to a great start! Kingsbridge Community College, Kingsbridge.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND FOOD FAYRE 8th Dec - Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot.

TOY & TRAIN FAIR 9th Dec - Newton Abbot Racecourse.

CHRISTMAS STREET FAYRE 12th, 19th Dec - Newton Abbot.

WEDDING FAYRE 20th Jan - Catwalk show, bridal dresses, stylist, local caterers, photographers, cakes, florists, vintage china, and much more. Cliff House, Salcombe. Free.

Theatrical Plays A CHRISTMAS CAROL 28th to 1st Dec - The winter show from Bijou Theatre Productions. Palace Theatre, Paignton. 7.30pm.

TIME WAS 12th to 19th Jan - Time has ruptured... with hilarious results. No Sunday performance. Little Theatre, Torquay.

7.30pm.

CONTINUED OVERLEAF

5

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December 2012 & January 2013

Forthcoming Events BOVEY TRACEY FARMERS' MARKET Alternate Saturdays, Union Square.

Ballet THE NUTCRACKER 13th Dec - From the very first notes of Tchaikovsky’s overture to The Nutcracker, a sense of mystery and magic is in the air. Flavel, Dartmouth.

7.15pm. £15.

Classical

Concerts BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 3rd Jan - gala of Viennese music, Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm.

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 24th Jan - celebrating its 120th birthday year, an evening of outstanding classical music with soloist Johannes Moser, Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm.

FARMERS &

Country Markets ASHBURTON LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET Thursday/Friday/Saturday, 9am - 3pm, Tucker’s Yard.

BUCKFASTLEIGH FARMERS’ MARKET Thursdays, 9am-1pm. Town Hall.

DARTMOUTH FARMERS’ MARKET 2nd Saturday of the month, 9am - 1pm, Market Square.

DAWLISH LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET 2nd Friday of the month, 9am - 2pm, Piazza on the lawn.

IVYBRIDGE COUNTRY MARKET Fridays, 8.30am-11.30am, The Scout Hut, St Leonard’s Road.

KINGSBRIDGE COUNTRY MARKET Wednesdays, 8am-noon.

Town Hall, Fore Street.

KINGSBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET 2nd & 3rd Saturdays of the month, 9am - 1pm, Town Square.

NEWTON ABBOT FARMERS’ MARKET Tuesdays, 9am-4pm, Courtenay Street.

TEIGNMOUTH LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET 3rd Saturday of the month, The Triangle.

TOTNES GOOD FOOD SUNDAY 3rd Sunday, the Market Square.

MARKET DAYS

Collectors

BRIXHAM ARTS AND CRAFT MARKET Every Saturday under the old fish market, Brixham harbourside.

FLEA MARKET 8 Dec - The Livestock Centre, Exeter, 7.30am-2pm.

DARTMOUTH MARKET Every Tuesday and Friday in the Market Square from Easter to October.

INNOVATIONS MARKET Until 9 Dec - with products to suit all ages and tastes, Guildhall Shopping Centre, Exeter, 9am-5pm (Sunday 10am-4pm).

EXMINSTER MARKET first Saturday every month, 9.30am12.30pm IVYBRIDGE MARKET The Scout Hut, St Leonard's Road, Ivybridge. Fridays. 8.30-11.30am.

KINGSBRIDGE MARKET Town Hall Foyer, Fore Street.

Wednesdays from 8.15am-12noon.

NEWTON ABBOT OUTDOOR MARKET The Market Square every Wednesday & Saturday 8am-4pm.

TAVISTOCK MARKET The Pannier Market, Tavistock. Fridays from 9am-4pm.

TOTNES MARKET Fridays and Saturdays.

YOUTH MARKET - MADE BY YOUTH 8th Dec - Market Hall, Kingsbridge.

1-4pm.

EXHIBITIONS CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS Until 31st Dec - Christmas exhibition.

Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey.

THEN AND NOW Until Jan - Photographic display of 19th to early 20th century images of villages around Kingsbridge and Salcombe, The Devon Rural Archive, Shilstone. Open Tues and Thurs, 11am to 3pm.

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 1st to 7th Dec - An opportunity to see and buy the work of local artists of the Teignmouth Art Society, TAAG Centre, Teignmouth.

THE SHOPS AT DARTINGTON OFFERS MORE

THAN JUST SHOPPING! With 14 shops and cafés and a huge selection of gifts from toys to tailor made hampers, there is something for everyone this Christmas at Dartington!

Call us 01803 847 500 Like us The Shops at Dartington Visit us www.dartington.org/shops TIME TO EXPLORE! ArrAn AromAtics BErsErKs crAnKs crAft GAllEry DynAmic ADVEntUrEs fooD shop fAshion & JEwEllEry GAllEry Gifts & stAtionEry GlAss GAllEry BAzAAr KitchEn shop my timE toy shop totnEs BooKshop thE hAVEn spA VEnUs cAfé & tAKEAwAy

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

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IF YOUR VENUE HAS LIVE MUSIC

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2012

get added to our events by emailing jill@prestige-media.co.uk

Live Music

Live Music Roundup Suns (Dec) - Jim Low and Kathie Johnston, a duo with incredible range who will play your requests, The Ernie Lister Bar, Quayside Hotel, Brixham, 9-11pm.

Last Weds - Songwriters’ Open Music Mic Night, opportunities for songwriters to perform their material, The Blue Walnut, Torquay, 7.30-11pm.

7 Dec - Matthew & Me and Special Guests, Studio Lounge, Totnes, 7.30pm.

8 Dec - The Woody Guthrie Show, Hard Times and Hard Travelin’, Exeter Phoenix, 8pm.

8 Dec - Carnaby Street, 60s covers, Upton Social Club, Torquay, 9pm-12 midnight.

JAZZ

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.

8 Dec - Hamer & Isaac’s Gypsy Swing Band, East Portlemouth Village Hall, Kingsbridge, 9pm.

15 Dec - The Lateshift, popular party band, Victoria Hall, Shaldon, 8pm.

10 Dec - Dart Valley Stompers, Ye Olde Jolly Sailor, Teignmouth, 8-.30-11pm.

15 Dec - Secondnature, rock/pop 4-piece, The Lime Tree, Paignton.

14 Dec - Go Tell Alice, The Wildgoose Inn, Combeinteignhead, 9-11pm.

19 Dec - Benny Guitar Carr and The Hot Rats, The Royal Oak, Malborough.

16 Dec - Hamer & Isaac’s Gypsy Swing Band, Cider Press, Dartington, 11am.

22 Dec - RAGE, The Spinning Wheel Inn, Paignton, 9pm.

24 Dec - The Disclaimers, Upton Social Club, Torquay, 9-11.45pm.

FOLK ROOTS & ACOUSTIC Suns - Folk and Other Funky Tunes, The Lord Nelson, Kingskerswell, 3-5pm.

Suns - Folk On The Moor, The Westward Inn, Lee Mill, 7.45pm.

26 Dec - The Covers Brothers, Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish, 9pm.

First Thurs - Brixham Folk Night, with John Turk and friends, Ernie Lister Bar, Quayside Hotel, Brixham.

29 Dec - Spaced Invaders, 80s covers, The Cromwell Arms, Bovey Tracey, 9pm.

First Thurs - Folk Music Night, The Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge, 8.30pm.

31 Dec - Go Tell Alice, New Year’s Eve party, The Jolly Farmer, Newton Abbot.

Third Tues - The Exeter Traditional Music Club, The Royal Oak Inn, Nadderwater.

5 Jan - Conspiracy, The Lime Tree, Paignton, 9.30pm-12midnight.

12 Jan - RAGE, 4-piece band, The Spinning Wheel Inn, Paignton, 9pm.

19 Jan - Magic Bus, Studio Lounge, Totnes, 7.30pm.

St Agnes Fountain - the folk quartet of David Hughes, Chris Leslie, Chris While and Julie Matthews - tour together at Christmas, bringing musical invention and laughter to the stardust atmosphere of the season. For the last 12 years, “The Aggies” have been turning in magical live performances with humorous and heartful renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original and those you know so well, and have produced eight festive albums. This year they take in Totnes, so start your festive celebrations at the Ariel Centre when they visit in early December.

Ariel Centre, KEVICC, Ashburton Road, Totnes TQ9 5JX Tel: 01803 869202

4 Dec - Dart Valley Stompers, Kingsbridge Jazz Club, The Fisherman’s Rest, Aveton Gifford, 7.30-10.30pm.

9 Dec - Jazz on Sunday, Mama Tokus and Big Buzzard Band, Hannah’s at Seale Hayne, Newton Abbot, 12.45pm.

21 Dec - Monika, pop rock covers, The Lansdowne, Dawlish, 9-12midnight.

www.whileandmatthews.co.uk/aggie.php

First Sun - Go Tell Alice, Open Mic Night, The Dartmouth Inn, Newton Abbot, 6.30-9.30pm.

9 Dec - Dave Rich, covers, Ryans Bar, Torquay, 5.30pm.

21 Dec - Kiss This!, ultimate 80s band, Ten Tors Inn, Kingsteignton, 9-11pm.

Tuesday 4 December, 6.45pm ST AGNES FOUNTAIN, ARIEL CENTRE, TOTNES

Weds - Go Tell Alice, smooth jazz to funky folk, Albert Inn, Totnes, 7-10pm.

photo courtesy of: Thin Lizzy photography by: Scott Uchida

GENERAL

Last Thurs - Teignmouth Folk Club, The Devon Arms Hotel, Teignmouth, 8.30pm.

1 Dec - Celine Dos Santos, with Marc Taylor, Offshore, Torquay, 9.30-11.30pm.

25 Jan - Raspberry Fish, covers, The Coach House, Paignton, 9pm.

4 Dec - St Agnes Fountain, Chris While and Julie Matthews joining forces with Chris Leslie and David Hughes, Ariel Centre, Totnes, 6.45pm.

26 Jan - Dave Rich, covers, De Traceys, Bovey Tracey, 9pm.

4 Dec - Matt Pocock & Friends, Exeter Phoenix, 9pm.

26 Jan - The Dodgems, The Globe Inn, Buckfastleigh, 8.45-11pm.

8 Dec - Jane Taylor, Totnes FM Studio Lounge, Totnes, 7.30pm.

26 Jan - Switch, rock/covers 4-piece, The Coach House, Paignton, 9pm.

9 Dec - Belshazzar’s Feast, Paul Hutchinson (accordion) and Paul Sartin

(vocalist/multi-instrumentalist), Folk On The Moor, The Westward Inn, Lee Mill, 7.30pm.

16 Dec, 13 Jan - Celine Dos Santos, Pier Port Restaurant, Torquay, 1.303.30pm.

5 Jan - Stormin’ Norman, rock/blues solo, Kool Club, Paignton, 11am-1pm.

26 Jan - Adam Sweet, The Huntsman Inn, Ide, 9pm.

ROCK/H-METAL BLUES 4 Dec - Florence and The Machine, & Haim: one-woman force of bluesy rock and the 3-sister band, Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 7pm.

1 Dec - Thin Lizzie, the legendary rockers are back in town, The Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm.

1 Dec - Chris Banderas, classic rock, The Lime Tree, Paignton, 9pm.

8 Dec - Pitchbend, rhythm and blues, The Coach House, Paignton, 9.30pm.

7 Dec - Diamondogz, The Spinning Wheel Inn, Paignton, 9.30pm-12am.

29 Dec - The Mighty Camel Toe, The Lime Tree, Paignton, 9pm.

7 Dec - D'lys, Hazelwood House, Loddiswell. 01548 821232

31 Dec - The Johnsons (Blues Explosion), 5-piece, Conservative Club, Ashburton, 9pm.

8 Dec - Rock Against The Machine, solo rock covers, The Country House inn, Babbacombe, 9.30-11.45pm.

4 Jan - The Mighty Camel Toe, rock/ blues 4-piece, The Spinning Wheel Inn, Paignton, 9pm.

14 Dec - Eat The Rich, outrageous rock, The White Hart, Chudleigh, 9pm.

South Devon Coast & Country

14 Dec - Guesswork, covers, Dicey Reilly’s, Teignmouth, 9pm.

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Live Music

Saturday 26 January, 9pm DAVE RICH, DE TRACEYS, BOVEY TRACEY www.daverich.co.uk

Dave Rich - guitarist, pianist and vocalist - is a fine West Country entertainer who wows every audience with his energy, skill, passion and versatility. He can switch effortlessly between a song like “Valerie” to “Jack Flash” or “Sweet Child o’ Mine” and many more. He photo courtesy of: Mel Peters has had his own band, the Dave Rich Band, but is now concentrating on solo cover shows all around Devon and Cornwall, so nip along to Ryan’s Bar in Torquay or De Traceys at Bovey Tracey to see him in action (dates opposite).

Email: dave@daverich.co.uk Tel: 07792 259338 De Traceys, 56 Fore Street, Bovey Tracey Tel: 01626 833465 www.detraceys.co.uk 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. photo courtesy of: St Agnes Foundation

Saturday 1 December, 7.30pm THIN LIZZY, THE GREAT HALL, EXETER UNIVERSITY www.thinlizzyband.com

The boys are back in town! This latest incarnation of legendary Irish rock band Thin Lizzy plays The Great Hall on the first Saturday in December.

Formed in Dublin in 1969, Thin Lizzy was the brainchild of Afro-Irishman Phil Lynott (vocalist/bassist/poet) and drummer Brian Downey, who had met at school. Frontman Lynott was the driving force in the original band of four.

Always remembered for those songs "Whiskey In The Jar", "Jailbreak" and the unforgettable "The Boys Are Back In Town", Thin Lizzy in all incarnations have made 12 studio albums and their major international hits are a staple of hard rock and classic rock radio stations. Re-formed in 2004, with drummer Brian Downey re-joining in 2009, they are now a band of six on a major UK tour. Tickets: £26 The Great Hall, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4PY. Tel: 01392 263518. www.exeterboxoffice.com

Tuesday 4 December, 7.30pm DART VALLEY STOMPERS, KINGSBRIDGE JAZZ CLUB www.dartvalleystompers.co.uk

The Dart Valley Stompers play lively, exciting music in the New Orleans and Traditional styles of jazz, guaranteed to keep your feet tapping and stomping all through the evening. In 2005 Jeremy Huggett formed the 6-piece line-up, which features some of the top jazz musicians in the UK. In December they will be entertaining at Kingsbridge Jazz Club’s meeting. enquiries@dartvalleystompers.co.uk Tel: 01884 35563 or: 07775 532792.

Kingsbridge Jazz Club, The Fisherman’s Rest, Fore Street, Aveton Gifford TQ7 4JL Tel: 01548 550284. photo courtesy of: Dart Valley Stompers

FEATURED VENUE 15 Dec - Rock Against The Machine, Bridge Inn, Ivybridge, 9-11.30pm.

22 Dec - Matthew Finnish, covers/ originals, The Dolphin Inn, Kenton, 9pm.

22 Dec - The Humanitarians, alternative rock 4-piece, Molloy’s, St Marychurch, Torquay, 9pm.

28 Dec - Ashbird, rock/metal covers, Apple & Parrot Inn, Paignton, 10.30pm1am.

31 Dec - Matthew Finnish, rock covers and originals, Royal British Legion, Kingsteignton, 9-11pm.

Studio Lounge, Totnes "The best live venue in Totnes"

The Studio Lounge is a not-for-profit community arts venue set up in 2011 by Totnes FM, the local radio station. Within a year it has become the top local venue for live entertainment - music, theatre, poetry, discussion - attracting some of the best artists around, including local lads Matthew & Me, now one of the biggest names in the South West, and supporting exciting up-and-coming bands during the weekly Open Mic Night (Thursdays). So success-

ful is the venue that it is staging about 40 live music gigs a year and is also available for hire - with a performance stage, PA system, big screen (and a licensed bar too) it provides everything you need to ensure your event is a success.

On 8th December, the Studio Lounge hosts multi-talented folk singer/songwriter, pianist/guitarist Jane Taylor and her Band on their Christmas Tour. Jane is an indepen-

19 Jan - 4 Rock’s Sake, classic rock, The Coach House, Paignton, 9pm.

25 Jan - Eat The Rich, outrageous rock, Dicey Reilly’s, Teignmouth, 9pm.

26 Jan - TheJefferson Archive, Brixham, 8.30pm.

photo courtesy of: Jane Taylor and Band

5 Jan - Stormin’ Norman Band, rock and blues 3-piece, Queen’s Arms, Brixham, 9-11.30pm.

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

dent artist who came up the hard way, getting herself noticed by sending a CD to the BBC. As soon as they heard “Blowing this candle out”, they gave her airtime. “Classic, timeless songwriter,” says Time Out. “A quintessentially English gem.” In their Totnes gig, JT and her Band will be giving a preview of their brand new musical “Mr Claus”, so expect a magical, mischievous, creatively enchanting experience that will get you in the mood for Christmas..

Jane now has her own label Bicycle Records and, in association with Rob Bray, percussionist, singer-songwriter and acoustic coach, runs songwriting workshops across the UK - info from www.thesongwritingworkshop.co.uk www.janetaylor.co.uk Email: jane@janetaylor.co.uk Studio Lounge, Scope Complex, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN Tel: 01803 862267 www.studioloungetotnes.com Email: info@totnesfm.co.uk

9

Forthcoming Art Exhibitions December 2012 & January 2013

Helen Petit - 'Sheepwalks' - Harbour House

Arthur Glendinning - 'The Empty Boat' - Avon Mill

Alyson Howard - 'Klimtfleur' - Lime Square

GALLERIES HELEN PETIT

Until 2nd Dec - Landscape explored through printmaking and pastel, oil and watercolour painting, Harbour House, Kingsbridge.

IN PURSUIT OF ART

Until 15th Dec - Charles Eastlake's journey from Plymouth to the National Gallery, Plymouth City Museum.

BENEDICT RUBBR A

Until 16th Dec - Twelve recent paintings on show, also with a selection of ceramics by Tessa Rubbra, The Art Room, Topsham.

GIFT EXHIBITION

Until 23rd Dec - The annual exhibition is full of items that would make great Christmas gifts. Hannahs Gallery at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot.

CHRISTMAS SHOW

Until 24th Dec - With a mix of gallery artists from across the region, Brownston Gallery, Modbury.

NEW LIGHT ON NEWLYN

Until 12th Jan - This exhibition will explore the art that has been created in and around the Cornish fishing port of Newlyn, both past and present, Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery.

WINTER COLLECTION

Until 24th Jan - Features the following artists: Janice Walton, Arthur Glendinning, John Carter & Deborah Poole. Avon Mill Garden, Loddiswell.

WOMEN IN ART

Until 2013 - See an impressive selection of fine and decorative artworks from the Museum's permanent collections

that either portray or were created by women, Plymouth City Museum.

EXHIBITION

Dec - New oil paintings on show by John Donaldson, acrylic paintings by Howard Birchmore, and our newest talent, watercolourist John Bonstow, Mayne Gallery, Kingsbridge.

MATHEW SIMMONS

Dec - Exhibition of negative art displayed on aluminium, The Blue Walnut Cafe, Torquay.

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION Dec and Jan - Works by Robert Lenkiewicz, Kerry Darlington, Kate Wyatt, Sam Toft, Laura Mugford, Howard Mills, Jeanette Smith, David William Young, Frames and Boxes, Newton Abbot.

JOHN SKINNER

1st and 2nd Dec - This local artist will be painting live with a wide selection of originals and prints on display. Haddon Galleries, Torquay.

ALYSON HOWARD

1st Dec to 31st Jan - Acrylic paintings of a floral theme, Lime Square, Ivybridge.

FINE ART COLLECTION

1st Dec to 30th Mar - the exhibition will include city views, 20th century Devon landscapes and striking portraits.

Gallery 5, RAMM, Exeter.

GET WEAVING

4th to 9th Dec - Devon Weavers Workshop. An exhibition of constructed textiles by members of Devon Weavers Workshop, to include rugs, wall

John Skinner - 'Glorious Start to the Day' - Haddon Gallery

Miranda Benzies - 'Millennium Bridge'

South Devon Coast & Country

10

John Donaldson - Mayne Gallery

John Skinner - 'Crystal Waters' - Haddon Galleries

Ben Maile - 'Cadgwith Cove, Cornwall' - ArtFrame Gallery

hangings, cushions, bags, woven apparel and scarves. Harbour House, Kingsbridge.

Sara Evans -'Tingle' - Hannahs at Seale-Hayne

PADSTOW CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION

RUR AL & COASTAL CONNECTIONS

GET FRESH

7th to 9th Dec - Which we will have varying artists on display (Sir Peter Blake, Damien Hirst, Anthony Amos and Robert Lenkiewicz to name just a few.) The Drang Gallery.

11th to 16th Dec - Sarah Brown, EC Williams, Lydia Milford and Gina Bastard. Four artists maker personal responses to themes associated with the landscape. Harbour House, Kingsbridge.

27th Dec - Our huge art sale 20-50% off all art pieces including paintings by local, national and internationally renowned artists, ArtFrame Gallery, Plymouth.

12th Jan to 24th Feb - new designermakers from the South West. New interventions in print, furniture, textiles, glass, ceramics, sculpture, enamel, jewellery and silver from the region’s freshest, most exciting emerging makers. Devon Guild of Craftsmen.

ROSIE BURNS

21st Jan to 2nd Feb - Make Space Prolific and versatile artist Rosie Burns will transform the space: from a blank, white walled gallery to a working painting and printmaking studio. (closed on Sundays) Harbour House, Kingsbridge.

COME FLY WITH ME

23rd Jan to 1st Feb 2013 - Solo Exhibition of surreal oil paintings by Miranda Benzies. Exploring the highs, lows and transformations in urban and rural life. Ariel Centre , Totnes.

Miranda Benzies - 'Heavens Above'

MIRANDA BENZIES 36 Church Street, Modbury, Devon PL21 0QR

Fine Art Trade Guild Award Winning Guild Commended Picture Framer and Gallery

EXHIBITIONS

Christmas Collection

Until 24 Dec 2012

Robert Lenkiewicz, Kerry Darlington, Kate Wyatt, Sam Toft, Laura Mugford, Howard Mills, Jeanette Smith, David William Young.

Christmas Show:

With a mix of gallery artists from across the region. Ideal gift ideas for Christmas.

01548 831 338 art@thebrownstongallery.co.uk www.thebrownstongallery.co.uk

Our Gallery Local, National and International Originals and Signed Limited Editions, Ceramics and Art Clocks.

10 Bank St, Newton Abbot 01626 335965 framesandboxes.co.uk

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Come Fly with Me 23rd Jan-1st Feb 2013

Alyson Howard 1st December to 31st January Acrylic Paintings of a floral theme

Solo Exhibition of surreal oil paintings

by Miranda Benzies, exploring the highs, lows and transformations in urban and rural life.

Opening night 22nd Jan.

Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

Ariel Centre Gallery, Ashburton Road, Totnes.

11

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

Blog

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) 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 South Devon Coast & Country

http://dolbycusdin.tumblr.com

Art Galleries

12

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Eating Out Q - Why is this magazine available at over 425+ high quality outlets across South Devon?

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After all, everyone enjoys a meal out - it's a real treat. We're so lucky here in the Southwest with many lovely countryside and coastal eateries - enjoy!

PLACE YOUR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR ORDERS • Be first off the block to visit our Butchery Department • We are taking orders for Turkeys, Geese, Hams, Joints and all your Christmas and New Year requirements • A fine selection of vegetables, fruit, diary produce and many new lines

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A Celebration of Life in South Devon

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Image by Petr Kratochvil

Shopping Ideas Christmas

for

Handcrafted leather bags, satchels, accessories and footwear designed and made to order in our local workshop.

Tel: 01626 776341 42 Teign Street Teignmouth Devon TQ14 8EA

Visit us in our shop or online: www.handcraftedshoes.co.uk

One of Hojo Floral Design's handmade displays

Chelsea Medallist British Master Florist

A selection of beautiful handmade leather accessories from artisans Brodequin who are based at Teignmouth

• Innovative & Stylish • European & Japanese designs • Weddings, Funerals • Gifts • Tuition & Workshops

Stay warm at night this Christmas with a Devon made duvet available at Austins from £110

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Joyfully received, gladly used, lovingly remembered GEL FX Nails

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A Celebration of Life in South Devon

15

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 South 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 16

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 £25.00-£40.00. 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 South Devon

Mandi Crump (www.mandyjane.co.uk)

17

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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.

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A Celebration of Life in South Devon

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directory Y HOME & INTERIORSZ

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The Hidden Art In Devon’s Churches Unveiled At The Devon Rural Archive

TOBYS AD EXETER LIVING MAY EDITION

Did you know that there are more

Norman fonts and medieval glass

Dr Todd Gray. In his

than 600 Anglican churches in

which still survive today.

illustrated talk Dr

Devon and that many of these

Gray will focus on the

hold hidden treasures of ancient

“ D evon’s Most Rem a rk able

best local churches to

art? The churches at Braunton,

Churches” is the theme of the

visit to encounter these

East Budleigh and Sandford are

evening lecture in the Lecture

extraordinary works of

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Room of the Devon Rural Archive

art.

carved medieval bench-ends and

on Thursday 6 December 2012 at

others contain Georgian pulpits,

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sourced from his book: “Devon’s

history, writing more extensively

Fifty Best Churches”, published

on Devon’s past than any other

last year, which reveals which of

historian. He is a Fellow of the

Devon’s numerous churches houses

Royal Historical Society and is

the most outstanding objects of

actively involved in many local

beauty made from stone, wood,

history groups.

glass and metal, often by local craftsmen.

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of Devon and Cornwall and has

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South Devon Coast & Country

22

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 South 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

23

Local historian Ted Gosling looks back at the popular seaside borough

Highlights of Torquay & Babbacombe

Babbacombe beach circa 1890

F

ROM THE EARLIEST TIMES Torquay became famous as a shelter for shipping from the Atlantic gales coming from the Southwest.

During the Napoleonic wars the fleet anchored here regularly and Earl St Vincent occupied Torre Abbey as his naval headquarters. As a result, the officers had their wives and families brought down to stay at the then hamlet of Tor Quay.

This was the start of the rapid growth of the popular seaside resort we all know today.

In 1821 the population was still less then 2000 but by 1841 it had risen to 6000. The railway to Torquay and Paignton was opened on the 1st of August 1859 and the town

soon became known as the Queen of Watering Places. The now rapid expansion was well planned and in November 1866 the Imperial Hotel was opened and soon the new town abounded in fine Victorian architecture, with many terraces and wooded drives, following the contours of its seven hills.

Sir Lawrence Palk, who represented Torquay in Parliament from 1868, owned much of the land and he wisely developed it with an upper-class clientele in mind.

The harbour was extended and Torquay was incorporated as a municipal Borough in 1892 taking in Babbacombe, Chelston, Ilsham and St Marychurch. The picturesque village of Cockington was added in

South Devon Coast & Country

1928 and fortunately the village remains unspoiled. But Cockington is not just a pretty village, the discerning visitor can see the visible remains of history all around if he knows where to look.

The name Cockington is very rare and as far as it is known there are only two other places in the world named Cockington, a farm in the Manor Alvington, North Devon and the other in Australia.

Here in Cockington we have a connection with my home town Seaton, the Mallock family originated from the neighbouring village of Axmouth and in the 15th century lived at Crab-Hayne in Axmouth and later at Stepp. They

24

had a family member named Roger Mallock who purchased Cockington in 1654 for £10,000.

Because Cockington court was remodelled by his son Rawlyn, there is no certain knowledge of how it looked before 1654.

The Mallocks were still here in 1914 - 1918 when a son of the house was killed near Ypres after winning the D.S.O. The family sold Cockington to Torquay council in 1928.

Many of the cottages have Saxon origins and the church with its mainly 13th century tower has Norman foundations. The only modern building is the thatched Drum Inn designed by Sir Edwin Continued overleaf...

St Mary's Church - 25 March 1952 - Aldermen, councillors and others attend the service which marked the start of rebuilding the church after the plane crash

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25

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Dartmouth, Stags Dartmouth, Taylor’s Restaurant Dartmouth, The Coastal House Dartmouth, The Cove Dartmouth, The Dartmouth Yacht Club Dartmouth, The Red Lion Inn Dartmouth, The Royal Castle Hotel Dartmouth.The Royal Dart Dartmouth, The Ship Inn Dartmouth, Trish Thomas Jewellery Dartmouth, twentysix Dawlish, Jeannie of Knightsbridge Dawlish, Langstone Cliff Hotel Dawlish, Pearson Ranger Dawlish, Shell Cove House Dawlish, The Smugglers Inn Dittisham, Dart Adventures Dittisham, Ferry Boat Inn East Allington, Keystone Ermington, West Country Cookers Frogmore, The Globe Inn Galmpton, Greenway National Trust Cafe Halwell, Old Inn Harberton, Church House Inn Haytor Vale, The Rock Holbeton, Carswell Farm Ilsington, Ilsington Country House Hotel Ilsington, Community Shop and P.O Ivybridge, Antique Bathrooms of Ivybridge Ivybridge, Cornwood P.O. Stores Ivybridge, Delamore Arts Ivybridge, Ivybridge Carpet Centre Ivybridge, Lime Square Art Gallery Ivybridge, The Back Centre Ivybridge, The California Country Inn Ivybridge, The Watermark Ivybridge, Woodlands Veterinary Group Ivybridge, Wrangaton Golf Club Kenton, Jo Talbot Bowen Kenton, Powderham Country Store Kingskerswell, Barn Owl Pub Kingsbridge, Absolute Dental Kingsbridge, Ashby’s Leisure Superstore Kingsbridge, Aune Valley Meat Limited Kingsbridge, Avon Mill Garden Centre Kingsbridge, Bartons Solicitors Kingsbridge, Beers LLP Kingsbridge, Bigbury Golf Club Kingsbridge, Buckland Tout-Saints Hotel Kingsbridge, Charles Head and Son Kingsbridge, Clearwater Financial Kingsbridge, For Your Eyes Only Kingsbridge, HAC Hair and Beauty Kingsbridge, Haven Spa and Therapy Kingsbridge, Herring Shoes Kingsbridge, Holywell Stores & P.O. Kingsbridge, KBB South West

West Prawle South Allington East Portlemouth Start Point East Prawle

Kingsbridge, Kingsbridge Eye Care Kingsbridge, Luscombe Maye Kingsbridge, Mansbridge and Balment Kingsbridge, Marchand Petit Kingsbridge, Peter Betteridge Sofa Expert Kingsbridge, Pure Beauty Kingsbridge, Red Earth Deli Kingsbridge, Selworthy Veterinary Group Kingsbridge, South Devon Chilli Farm Kingsbridge, South Moor Vets Kingsbridge, Squires Hair and Beauty Kingsbridge, The Art Cafe Kingsbridge, The Cottage Hotel Kingsbridge, The Cottage Kitchen Kingsbridge, The Cricket Inn Kingsbridge, The Hen House Kingsbridge, The Meeting Room Wine Bar Kingsbridge, The Old Bakery Kingsbridge, The Sloop Inn Kingsbridge, The Wood Shed Kingsbridge, Uppercutz Kingsbridge, Windeatts Solicitors Kingsbridge, Museum of Rural Life Kingskerswell, The Hare and Hounds Kingsteignton, Hair & Beauty at Rehab Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot Racecourse Kingsteignton, The Bell Inn Kingsteignton, The Country Sports Shop Kingswear, Charles Head and Son Kingswear, Royal Dart Yacht Club Kingswear, Kaywana Hall Lifton, The Arundell Arms Littlehempston, Red Post Equestrian Littlehempston, Waye Barton Farm Foods Loddiswell, Hazelwood House Longcombe, Longcombe Nursery Maidencombe, The Thatched Tavern Modbury, Aune Valley Deli Modbury, Brownston Gallery Modbury, Devonshire Fine Art Modbury, Devon Rural Archive Modbury, Hojo Floral Design Modbury, Modbury Dental Practice Modbury, Nicholas Hair and Beauty Modbury, Nigel Frost Optometrist Modbury, Osteopathic Clinic Modbury, Shilstone House Modbury, White Hart Hotel Newton Abbot, Austins Department Store Newton Abbot, Beautytime H & B

Newton Abbot, Burnham Nurseries Newton Abbot, D. J. Offord Newton Abbot, Dainton Park Newton Abbot, Darnells Accountants Newton Abbot, Devon Guild of Craftsmen Newton Abbot, El-Nashar Dental Care Newton Abbot, Fermoy’s Garden Centre Newton Abbot, Frames and Boxes Newton Abbot, Martin Regan Hair Salon Newton Abbot, Molecare Veterinary P. Newton Abbot, Plant World Newton Abbot, Powderham Veterinary G. Newton Abbot, Quality Dental Care Newton Abbot, Rendells Estate Agents Newton Abbot, Sampsons Farm Hotel Newton Abbot, Stover School Newton Abbot, The Country Table Cafe Newton Abbot, The Passage House Hotel Newton Abbot, The Pharmacy Cafe Newton Abbot, The Rock Gardens Newton Abbot, Timber Solutions UK Ltd Newton Abbot, Tudor Clinic Newton Abbot, Wrights Stationery Newton Ferrers, Luscombe Maye Paignton, Cherrybrook Dental Practice Paignton, Cherrybrook Medical Centre Paignton, Classic Floors Paignton, Eric Lloyd and Co Paignton, Haulfryn Health and Leisure Paignton, Palace Hotel Paignton, RSL Chartered B. Surveyors Paignton, Styles Garden Centre Paignton, The Blagdon Inn Paignton, Williams Hedge Estate Agents Plymouth, Langdon Court Plymouth, Somerville Gallery Rattery, The Church House Salcombe, Amelias Attic Salcombe, Cater Cove Salcombe, Charles Head and Son Salcombe, Coves Quay Gallery Salcombe, Gallery 5 Salcombe, Jon Man’s Shop Salcombe, Reddish Marine Limited Salcombe, Salcombe Dental Practice Salcombe, Salcombe Eye Care Salcombe, Salcombe Interiors Salcombe, Tides Reach Hotel Shaldon, Hairazors Shaldon, Shaldon Approach Golf Shaldon, The Ness House Hotel Shaldon, The Shaldon Coffee Rush Slapton, The Tower Inn South Brent, Gildersleve Antiques South Brent, Royal Oak Inn South Brent, Salon 14

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South Brent, The Health Centre South Brent, The Oak Inn Starcross, Atmospheric Railway Inn Staverton, Gilboy’s Stoke Fleming, Pura Vida Stoke Fleming, The Green Dragon Stoke Gabriel Stores Stoke Gabriel, The Boating Association Stoke Gabriel, The River Shack Stokeinteignhead, The Church House Inn Stokenham, The Tradesman’s Arms Stoneycombe, Bickley Mill Inn Strete, Strete Post Office Stokeinteignhead Community Shop Tavistock, Elford Fine Art Teignmouth, Denthom Teignmouth, Quayside Bookshop Teignmouth, Richmond House Surgery Teignmouth, Teignmouth Golf Club Teignmouth, The Fountain for Health Teignmouth, Tozers Thurlestone, Post Office & Shop Thurlestone, Thurlestone Hotel Torcross, Torcross Post Office Torquay, Aesthetic Answers Torquay, Bay Therapy Torquay, Blue Walnut Cafe Torquay, Corbyn Head Hotel Torquay, Cockington Galleries Torquay, David Youll Hair and Beauty Torquay, Driftwood Cafe Torquay, Herbs and Honey Torquay, Imperial Museum Torquay, Museum Torquay, Orestone Manor Torquay, Powderham Veterinary Group Torquay, Quay Reflections Gallery Torquay, St. Marychurch Beauty Salon Torquay, The Dressing Room Torquay, The Lorrens Ladies Health Hydro Torquay, Waitrose Totnes, Amanda Marsden Salon & Spa Totnes, Antique Dining Room Company Totnes, Arbow Garage Totnes, Bishopston Trading Company Totnes, Conservatories of Distinction Totnes, Coves Gallery Totnes, Dartington Antiques Totnes, Devere’s Restaurant Totnes, Fat Lemons Totnes, Fit Healthy Happy Totnes, Fortescue Arms Totnes, Gitcombe House Cottages Totnes, H & B by Teresa Knight Totnes, Leatside Surgery Totnes, Luscombe Maye Totnes, Maisies Totnes, Manor Lodge Dental Surgery Totnes, Michelmore Hughes Estate A. Totnes, Monks Retreat Inn Totnes, New Walk Brasserie Totnes, NFU Mutual Totnes, Noble Chiropractic Totnes, Olsen Cafe Totnes, Paperworks Totnes, Robert Seymour and Assoc Totnes, Royal Seven Stars Hotel Totnes, Sarah Boutique and Breeze Totnes, Sea Trout Inn Totnes, Stoke Gabriel Stores Totnes, Teddy Bear Shop Totnes, The Kingsbridge Inn Totnes, The Maltsters Arms Totnes, The Shops at Dartington Totnes, The Steam Packet Totnes, Tiffany Totnes, Totnes Tile Studio Totnes, Totnes Wine Company Totnes, Waterside Bistro Cafe Bar Ugborough, Ship Inn Yealmpton, Luscombe Maye Yealmpton, The Rose and Crown Yelverton, Beau Boutique Yelverton, Moorland Garden Hotel Yelverton, Prince Hall Hotel

26

Local historian Ted Gosling looks back at the popular seaside borough

Highlights of Torquay & Babbacombe Lutyens in 1934. Cockington Court, the Elizabethan Manor of the Carys and then of the Mallocks, who added the facade, is now owned by Torbay Council and behind the court you can discover over 200 skilled and contemporary artists and craft markets in the stable yard.

Keats thought Babbacombe the finest place he had ever seen in Devon when he called here for a cup of tea. Certainly the view from Babbacombe down is outstanding and many of the cafés here provide excellent cream teas. The ancient parish church of St Marychurch was rebuilt in

1861 but on the 30th May 1943, twenty-one enemy aircraft sped in from the sea on a hit and run raid. Sweeping over Petitor where golfers dropped behind the bunkers, one plane pressed home an attack on the parish church of St Marychurch, despite the fact that its tail had been nearly severed by gunfire. The plane crashed and the pilot was killed, but so were children attending a rogation Sunday service in the church. On that day twenty-one children lost their lives.

A procession of schoolchildren on Empire Day at The Strand, 1905

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14/11/2010

18:16

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A Celebration of Life in South Devon

27

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

South Devon Coast & Country

28

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 who 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 South Devon

29

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

Traditional old houses can be found off the beaten track

Plenty of boats for hire, it's well worth hiring a boat for a trip up the coast from Latchi

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 complementary 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

South Devon Coast & Country

30

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 ever 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 South Devon

31

The bay opposite the Baths of Aphrodite

Glorious Cyprus

Dining is so pleasant here it's under a terrace of pendulous gourds

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 of

sold the island on to the exiled

swimming and relaxing in 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.

South Devon Coast & Country

32

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 South Devon

33

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.

South Devon Coast & Country

34

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 road, which was unusual, as

the middle of nowhere. Stopping

generally they're so fast you can

off was a joy at friendly old villages.

hardly see them. The lizard turned

I 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 South Devon

end

35

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. South 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 South Devon Countryside Wildlife & History Walk, Wembury Beach Car Park Sunday 9th December 10am - 1pm Find out more about the wildlife and history of this beautiful landscape on the edge of the Plymouth Sound with guide Martin Gooderson.

Adults £4 Children £2 Contact South Devon AONB for details

Female Merlin

‘Cirl Buntings and Dartmoor ponies’, Boxing Day Walk, RSPB Labrador Bay Nature Reserve Wednesday 26th December 9.30am - 12.30pm Help provide a Christmas feast for Cirl Bintings and Dartmoor ponies.

Meet at Teignbridge District Council Car Park Members free, non members £3

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

South Devon Coast & Country

36

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 South 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

37

What is Cool Recovery?

Once upon a time...

Working together in the belief that recovery is possible for everyone, Martin and Claudia share their COOL adventure.

Life Matters Balancing the stresses of work and living with health and relaxation

to time there have been tough decisions to take and some hard knocks in those early years - the proverbial “steep learning curve’ has provided unexpected lessons and occasional setbacks. But importantly, supportive friends have proliferated and lessons have been learned. Cool Recovery is well used and thought of in the local community.

Life Matters Editor - Averil Quinain coaching@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 ICE.

Do you have anything interesting to tell us about?

We re particulary

keen to hear es and voluntary

from local chariti

organisations abo ut the good work they carry out in the community.

We d also like to hear from practitioners in the South Devon area about their treatments and services.

Members enjoying an African Dance and Music Event at the Cool Recover House in Torquay

Martin and Claudia

I

sat with Claudia in a quiet country pub just off the A38 wondering if anyone else would turn up for this early meeting of Carers One-to One link (COOL). We didn’t know we had opened Pandora’s box and that all the struggles, hopes and doubts, the guilt and all the tears of all the years were about to spill out onto the tables in front of us... and we would never be able to put it back.

At first, in 2000, there were barely five or six of us, but when we got bolder in that first year and decided to hold a symposium we were overwhelmed by the response. Dozens of Carers from all across Devon flooded into the pub’s large upstairs room and the hope and expectation they brought with them was almost palpable. As we nervously welcomed our first audience I began to realize how important COOL was to so many people and I wondered what it might become.

Under the wing of a generous, receptive founder and benefactor, COOL was able to flourish as an independent body, unhindered by subscriptions, rulebook or committee. The initial telephone link became a series of support groups and the symposium, known as Beating the Boundaries, became a twice annual gathering. Guest speakers ranged from our local services - housing, nursing, benefits, doctors, spiritual leaders, alternative therapist, managers - to include psychiatrist of national repute and a specially convened “Question Time” when we were host to the chief executive of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Support groups also invited speakers, and over time became a pressure group resulting in statutory employment of Carer Support Workers.

From the beginning there was not only great need but enormous good will, which has now stood the test of time

working together in the belief that recovery is possible for everyone and is constantly regenerated in the support groups which continue to exist.

Ten years on, although “the A38 group” no longer meets and the pub is under new management (not due to us), a network of friends remains who never quite lose touch with each other.

Members support one another, involving themselves in a variety of activities to promote recovery and mental and physical well-being.

Given that, although sadly, there may be Service Users who do not have Carers, the reverse cannot be true. Mental illhealth has united Carers in a quest to help their loved ones and find some peace of mind for themselves. COOL always needed a home of its own where recovery could be nurtured for both Carers and Cared for. Today, thanks again to our founder, Cool House in Torquay is the home of the registered charity named Cool Recovery. There is now a nominal membership subscription to pay, but few, if any, are put off by the small sum and membership runs into the hundreds. Claudia, with her genial boundless energy and enthusiasm, now works alongside Martin, an experienced manager. These two are the only salaried workforce at Cool Recovery.

It isn’t all peace and goodwill, from time

South Devon Coast & Country

The warm and easy-going atmosphere in the Cool House has become a magnet for Service Users - not only as a respite and refuge but as a place where people are accepted without question, where maintenance and daily running is everyone’s responsibility and their contributions are valued and respected.

Carers have their own day once a week and Young Carers also have dedicated times. Cool grannies and Cool babies mingle with students, civil partners, men, women, teenagers… They can all find friendship and fulfilment, leisure and pleasure at Cool House. For some, Cool House has been a new starting point from where they have been able to move on.

The spirit at Cool House enables and encourages recovery which, as we know, is not an end in itself, but an ongoing process. Perhaps there is a “Recovery Pathway” and some people refer to a ‘’ Recovery Journey”. These analogies can be misleading because, as any traveller knows, there are stops and starts along the way.

It is possible to get lost - not all pathways are smooth or straight. There is no obligation to recover, but a lot of people are enjoying the idea and the process...

And as for ‘Happily Ever After’, well how Cool can you get?

Do you have an interesting life story to tell?

If so, contact Nigel Jones so we can include it in the magazine call 01395 513383 Cool Recovery is an independent mental health charity offering support, information, volunteering opportunities and a range of activities for family,

38

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

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

Cool Gardeners creating the herb garden for the Elephant Restaurant in Torquay

friends and people recovering from or affected by mental health issues. Cool Recovery offers a safe space in which to make changes, to use and develop skills, pursue aspirations and recover health and well being.

Cool Recovery is a dynamic, lively organisation, offering a unique, friendly and easily accessible resource for local people. We successfully work with people of all ages in South Hams, Teignbridge and Torbay. The charity

evolved in South Devon from being a mental health carers’ network with one home-based worker in South Hams in 1999, to an all inclusive project located in a large house in central Torquay in 2005. The extensive rural support network is very pro-active with regular events and groups meeting in Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, South Brent and Totnes.

Cool Recover y is independently funded and works successfully with

statutory and community organisations.

Operational funds are generated from the Café, room rental, and membership fees, which remain at just £12 per annum. Membership involves more than just payment. Each member is asked to volunteer a little of their time, energy and skills to help the charity in any way they can, while benefiting from the wide range of activities available.

All members have access to counselling and therapies.

Members support one another, involving themselves in a variety of activities to promote recovery and mental and physical well-being. The Cool House kitchen and Café are staffed by members who pride themselves in preparing healthy, affordable food which is tasty, nutritious, freshly cooked and locally sourced, often from the Cool allotment. Members’ artwork is on display enhancing the environment.

Cool Recovery offers support to the whole family. Cool Young Carers’ Project is specifically for 6-18 year olds affected by a family member’s mental ill-health or substance misuse and Torbay’s Young Adult Carers Service (16-25 years) both meet weekly at the Cool House with a fortnightly Saturday drop-in. Dads’ Time meets there weekly with their young children under the age of 5 years. There is something for all ages.

A facet of recovery is being part of the wider community, so we find every opportunity to develop good working relationships within our local communities, organisations and businesses to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of mental illness. All are welcome to Cool Recovery including children and well-behaved dogs.

Martin Smith & Claudia Benzies (Managers) 01803 299511 info@coolrecovery.org.uk www.coolrecovery.org.uk

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

39

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.

South 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 South Devon

41

Brunel's Atmospheric Railway Unfortunately, more than steam pressure was lost!

by Carol Schaessens

Spot the references to Brunel - a great engineer and entrepreneur, but for once, his great scheme failed Incidentally, this is one of the displays at Newton Abbot Museum, which has a fascinating array of train objects

R

OBBIE BURNS FAMOUSLY OBSERVED in one of his poems: ‘the best laid schemes o’ mice and men gang aft a-gley...’ For several reasons this phrase springs readily to mind when hearing the story of a disastrous venture that took place in the mid-1840s in East Devon, instigated by the great Victorian Railway engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

This scheme to use pneumatic propulsion of trains instead of steam location lasted barely a year, was quickly dubbed ‘The Atmospheric Caper’ and cost Brunel £20,000 in personal investment! And one of the reasons for its downfall was

rats devouring the tallow used to grease some crucial leather sealing-flaps.

On the west bank of the Exe Estuary at Starcross, eight miles south of Exeter, stands one of the few reminders of this episode: an Italianate sandstone tower erected as one of the pumping stations necessary to propel the trains. Today this listed building is used by the Starcross Fishing and Cruising Club for boat storage, but in its time has also seen service as a church, coal store and Atmospheric Railway Museum (which closed in 1993). And opposite, 200 yards away, you will find ‘The Atmospheric

Railway Inn’, a pub where you can combine a drink with a chance to view a great deal of material chronicling this sad venture.

The background to this daring project lay in the ‘railway mania’ that gripped Britain in the early 19th century. Between 1835 and 1841, Brunel had tackled the massive task of creating the 120-mile Great Western Railway route from Paddington in London to Bristol, including the famous flat-arch bridge over the Thames at Maidenhead and the 3,200-yard Box tunnel outside Bath (the sun is supposed to shine through this on Brunel’s birthday). This

South Devon Coast & Country

huge achievement had seen indefatigable Brunel surveying the whole route (involving him in 20-hour days over six weeks to meet the deadline), bargaining with landowners, designing station buildings, carriages, tunnels and bridges and overseeing the construction work.

This landmark line was followed in 1844 by the opening of the Bristol and Exeter Railway line, which then led to calls for an extension of the railway further into the South West. Official go-ahead for this came with the passing of the July 1844 Act of Parliament permitting the building of the 52-mile South Devon Railway

42

Many thanks to Newton Abbot Museum, it's the sort of place well worth an extended visit

linking Exeter and Plymouth.

Brunel was appointed by the SDR as its engineer but knew that major difficulties lay ahead in tackling the steep gradients and curves of the area. The Haldon Hills, west of Exeter, were a major challenge and two routes round them were therefore proposed. The one

Steep gradients between Newton Abbot and Totnes would be a problem for the then current steam engines, as would the area around Dartmoor, and Brunel doubted that steam locomotives could cope with these climbs. He was also aware that many passengers found locomotives off-puttingly

first railway carriage, replacing the locomotive. The slot on the continuous pipe was sealed by a greased leather flap, which helped the piston (and thus the carriage) to travel the whole length of the railway line.

The advantages of this system over steam locomotives were

utilise sharp curves, its fuel efficiency (as it used a few large pumping engines rather than lots of individual locomotives), the fact that it kept smoke and dirt away from passengers, and the safety aspect of it being impossible to operate two trains on the same stretch of track.

Pumping engines were provided

uncomfortable and dirty. He came to believe that a system that used a train without an engine might be the answer.

its ability to climb hills, the fact that Atmospheric railways could be operated on cheaper and lighter tracks and could

by engine houses built alongside the railway line, which contained the steam-powered pumps that forced air out of the

"Tiny" The last Broad Gauge locomotive, photographed on the platform of Newton Abbot station prior to being sold to the Railway Museum at York.

chosen was south via Newton Abbot.

Brunel, ignoring others’ warnings, decided to build the line running from Exeter along the west bank of the Exe estuary, tightly following the coastline between Dawlish and Teignmouth. This involved tunnelling through headlands and running the line along a narrow strip between the sea and steep red cliffs (which to this very day still provides a memorable experience for rail passengers, especially when seas are stormy). After Teignmouth the railway would follow the northern bank of the Teign estuary to Newton Abbot. To save costs this would be a single track, broad-gauge railway line.

This part of the route would be on level ground, although very vulnerable to bad weather in the English Channel. The next part promised further difficulties.

Elsewhere in the country, experiments had been successfully carried out with ‘atmospheric propulsion’, an idea developed between 1810 and 1939 by various inventors including the brothers Jacob and Joseph Samuda. Brunel knew it was already used in the London to Croydon line and saw it working well on the Dublin & Kingstown Railway in Ireland.

He was sufficiently impressed to recommend the scheme to the SDR shareholders.

This ‘Atmospheric System’ was a clever idea which involved the laying between rails of a 15-inch, cast-iron continuous pipe that had a slot along the top, inside which was a piston. The piston was joined to the frame of the

Another shot of the railway room at Newton Abbot Museum Don't think they just feature railways, there's a plethora of facinating artefacts and displays - if you're going to visit, ensure you set aside at least 3 hours to wander around.

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

43

Brunel's Atmospheric Railway Continued...

The route of the Atmospheric Railway, with Dawlish in foreground and Exmouth in the distance Shot by Nigel Jones from the cockpit of a gyrocopter heading eastbound along the coast

tubes and created the vacuum on one side of the carriages and ‘atmosphere’ to the other that were necessary to propel the train.

Brunel thought this system would be economic to construct, would save fuel, would enable trains to climb the steep gradients beyond Newton Abbot, and would be quiet, smooth, clean and fast for passengers.

However, the idea was not without its critics, most notably George Stephenson who called it ‘a great humbug’.

There were also some recognised problems which also ultimately led to the failure of the Atmospheric System to be later taken up elsewhere: these

included maintaining the airtight seal in the vacuum pipes (which the SDR never resolved with the materials available to it in the 1840s), shunting the trains in atmospheric formation and dealing with the change in traction involved if an atmospheric line became part of a through route.

Nonetheless, in preparation for Brunel’s use of the Atmospheric System the necessary pumping stations were built at threemile intervals between Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot (including Starcross, Dawlish, Teignmouth and Torquay).

Unfortunately these were not provided with telegraph as a means of communication − which ultimately caused

problems because each pumping station was designed to evacuate the pipe of air according to a timetable. This lead to waste when no train was ready to leave the previous stop, because coal was used unnecessarily to work the pumping station.

Unsurprisingly, Brunel met problems with the building of the line, even before the Atmospheric System was installed. The route involved the construction of seven tunnels as well as sea walls between Dawlish and Teignmouth and problems with these delayed matters. The building of the 15-mile line between Exeter and Teignmouth ran a year over time and was not opened

South Devon Coast & Country

until May 1846 - and then using ordinary engines. Eventually,

by December 1846, the first train reached Newton Abbot to be greeted by cheering crowds. At last, the infrastructure for the new south-west route had begun to fall into place.

It was planned that the installing of the Atmospheric System would occur while trains ran a normal timetable to Teignmouth, but teething problems were clear on the first test ride of a carriage with a piston in February 1947 - the carriage was badly impeded by water and dirt in the pipe. As time went on, the pumping stations proved to be underpowered, having been poorly constructed and

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Unsurprisingly, Brunel’s reputation suffered as a result of the whole episode and recriminations occurred between him and the SDR, they arguing about his fee and him claiming substantial professional and personal losses.

CHARLES HEAD charleshead.co.uk

If you want to learn more about this ingenious yet ill-fated idea, it’s worth visiting Newton Abbot museum, where you will find a section of the Atmospheric Railway and a model of one of its carriages created by a local model engineer, using watercolours of the area, from the Institute of Civil Engineers in London. A section of the atmospheric pipe without the leather covers has also been donated to the museum by Bristol Museum, which helps clarify for the curious the workings of this weird footnote in railway history.

(1502)

Estate Agents covering Salcombe and the South Hams since 1902

Carol Schaessens Acknowledgements The following sources were used in writing this article:

regularly breaking down. It was August 1847 before the first atmospheric train finally made it to Teignmouth. But, by then, other problems were becoming clear in that there was air leakage from the iron pipe, and leather flaps integral to the system’s working suffered from the hungry attention of the local rats.

Eventually, in September 1847, atmospheric trains were finally able to transport passengers from Exeter to Teignmouth. By the following January, Newton Abbot could be reached. However, SDR was growing disillusioned by the continual problems the system was presenting. Seven months later they gave up on the whole project and sold all the equipment. The service was then run using steam locomotives.

http://en-wikipedia.org/wiki/ Atmospheric_railway www.museum-newtonabbot. co.uk www.victorianweb.org/ technology/railways/pneumatic html www.dawlishblue.co.uk www.engrailhistory.info www.exetermemories.co.uk (Thanks to David Cornforth) www.exe.estuary.org www.bbc.co.uk/devon Brunel by Jonathan Falconer (Ian Allan Publishing, 1995) Who’s who in Victorian Britain, Roger Ellis (Stackpole Books, 1997) Around and about the Haldon Hills by Chips Barber (Obelisk Publications, 1982)

Kingsbridge Salcombe Kingswear London 01548 852352 01548 843952 01803 752321 02076 294141

Every day is an open day You will be welcome to view, with no obligation Please telephone for details

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A Celebration of Life in South Devon

45

THE CREAM OF THE CROP TALENTED, AWARD WINNING AND LONG ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES IN SOUTH DEVON

Artisans and Artists of Ashburton - continued success leads to further expansion Interior design business Artisans and Artists in Ashburton knew that they had outgrown their first shop in the town within 6 months. “We realised that we needed bigger premises pretty fast as we did not have enough room to swing a pattern book!” says co-founder and interior designer Susan Folwell. The business is now ensconced in their new showroom and design studio in West Street in the town but the expansion plans have not stopped there, additional premises have been purchased to enable the design studio to expand during 2013.

Artisans and Artists firmly believe that artisan is the new luxury. As well as offering a full interior design service and carrying an extensive range of fabric and wallpaper pattern books in their inhouse library, they also design and manufacture their own range of bespoke furniture, artisan produced in Devon.

The bespoke range includes the Hatherleigh Console Table made from reclaimed maple

ballroom flooring from the 1920’s, the Clovelly Chair - a neat occasional chair based on a 1950’s design, the Coffee Beam - a modernist coffee table/ footstool hewn from Devon oak and the latest addition - the Gidleigh Footstool.

The Gidleigh Footstool is available in either deep buttoned or plain, in any size and choice of cloth and came about when Susan was trying to source a large footstool for a library project for a client.

“We found limited choice of size and fabrics from off the shelf options so we decided to design and manufacture it ourselves. The client was delighted and it is now the latest addition to our range.”

Whilst the bespoke range is locally produced, you will also find a large number of interesting items sourced from around the world in the Ashburton showroom. “We are frequently told that we are certainly not run of the mill and that makes the global search that we engage with for the showroom and clients very worthwhile.”

The Gidleigh Footstool shown in Gidleigh Park Susan Folwell 01364 653276

Adam Gribble, Master Thatcher homes in on the South Devon region Having been brought up in Devon, Adam Gribble found himself working as a thatcher by accident!

After a six month back-packing tour of South America in his youth, he was approached by a local thatcher to do some labouring work and soon realised that this was the job for him. He still remembers the 'wow' factor on seeing his first completed thatched house, over twenty years ago.

A lot of his friends moved away from Devon searching for careers, in the hope of finding bigger, better things in life, but Adam considered himself fortunate to be living in such a lovely part of the country and preferred to concentrate on his new career.

He is well aware that although people may paint an idealistic image of thatching life, there are certainly some years that are particularly testing. However, Adam still gets that worthwhile buzz on seeing the finished product when a roof is completed, and he gets to work on some amazing properties in stunning locations.

He points out 'It is not all roses though and if you'd seen how many days this year that I've sat in my truck , absolutely drenched in wet clothes watching the monsoon-like rain, you'd think I was crazy to enjoy my work'.

However, being an eternal optimist, Adam feels the future is looking bright and he just hopes the weather follows suit, as he looks forward to his next twenty years of thatching.

Adam is married, with two young children and lives in Bovey Tracey. Having been working in East Devon for the past ten years, he is about to concentrate on thatching in South Devon.

South Devon Coast & Country

Master Thatcher Adam 01626 830211 / 077026 20005

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If you're the proprietor of an excellent local business, make contact with Vivienne Crump (01395 568025)

THE CREAM OF THE

CROP

What a difference a day makes! - The Royal Seven Stars Hotel, Totnes This was true of events at the Royal Seven Stars Hotel in September 2012. On Friday 29th September everyone at the famous landmark Hotel, in the heart of Totnes, was thrilled as they had just been awarded the Excellence in Customer Service and the Hospitality Business of the Year at the glittering English Riviera & South Devon Tourism & Hospitality Awards 2012, held in the English Rivera Centre in Torquay.

There was little time to celebrate as only 24 hours later, during a busy Saturday evening dinner service, a fire occurred in the hotel's kitchen. The catastrophic flames completely gutted the kitchen within minutes and caused some damage to the recently refurbished Ballroom above. Eight fire engines with their crews fought until the early hours of Sunday morning to extinguish the blaze.

Business as Usual - well, almost!

Two weeks after the extensive fire, staff worked hard to ensure that it was running as smoothly as possible and back to near full functionality; a temporary kitchen had been installed in the

rear car park and was able to cater for 90% of the normal menu. All bedrooms where unaffected and the main impact was on functions, which were due to take place in the first floor ballroom Most functions had been able to go ahead by using the TQ9 Brasserie & Champagne Bar on the ground floor and only larger functions such as weddings had to be moved to alternative venues.

It was a real challenge, but The staff of The Royal Seven Stars everyone really pulled together Hotel enjoying their success as a team to make sure things were as normal as they could possibly be. Given the state that the place was damaged areas with the ballroom hosting its in following the fire, most people would never first wedding on Saturday 3rd November. The know what had gone on behind the scenes. newly refurbished kitchen is on track for the busy Building work began immediately to rebuild the festive season.

Celebrating 100 years of service to the people of South Devon - Grey Cars of Torbay days of the old charabancs. Back then it was all bench seats open to the elements with little or no suspension. Now you can expect comfortable seating and glide along on air suspension in air conditioned comfort.

Grey Cars of Torbay are a coach firm with something to celebrate. For 100 years they have been offering day trips and excursions to the people of South Devon. Originally formed in the spring of 1913 with the name ‘The Grey Torpedo Cars’, the ‘torpedo’ was dropped from the title at the outbreak of the First World War for obvious reasons! Now the Grey Cars name is being kept alive by the Millman family. They are no strangers to the coaching industry, being 4th generation coach operators with the fifth generation waiting in the wings.

The coaches have improved since 1913 and the

In essence, the operation is still the same, and everyone at Grey Cars prides themselves in offering good, old fashioned service with that all important attention to detail. The day trips programme is still popular and pick up points can be found from Totnes to Dawlish and many places in between.

For small groups and individuals, Grey Cars offer a whole range of day trips including special events, National Trust properties, shopping trips, theatre trips and sightseeing tours. They also have the occasional short break on their programme, and are known throughout the area for their 4 star value for money breaks to London.

Drivers and coach at Dartmouth between us, we are hoping to put together a display of vintage buses and coaches as well as showing off some of our present day fleet.”

With 2013 being Grey Cars’ Centenary year, they are planning a big celebration. Details are sketchy at the moment, but Diane Millman said “We have been talking to the Devon General Society and

“For our 90th anniversary we managed to track down some of Grey Cars’ old drivers from back in the 40s and 50s, but I don’t suppose there are many left now.” However, if you know differently, she would love to hear from you.

A Celebration of Life in South Devon

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INVESTMENT & FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS PARTNERSHIP LLP

A specialist investment and retirement service covering all of south Devon

Independent Financial Advisers The Partnership

Experience Matters

Helen and Ian have worked together for a number of years and in 2011 they decided to pool their considerable experience by creating a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) which is directly regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

With premises in South and East Devon, clients are able to have face to face meetings to discuss their financial plans. The partnership is ready to meet the challenges of the Retail Distribution Review next year and is committed to offering fully independent advice on a fee basis.

Between the partners they have over 50 years' experience of providing independent financial advice. This considerable experience enables them to help clients plan realistic financial goals and to implement recommendations whilst responding to changes in the stockmarket and legislation. Both partners are required to keep their technical knowledge up-to-date regarding changes to investment markets, products and legislation.

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Ready to meet new challenges

There are three levels of service. Firstly, our Asset Management Service, which is aimed at clients who want a comprehensive service covering all aspects of their financial planning. Secondly, our Valuations Service, which is aimed at clients with existing investment portfolios and is designed to give them a consolidated over view and regular monitoring. Finally, a Transaction Service which is designed to provide one-off advice without on-going servicing.

In 2013, the Retail Distribution Review (RDR) will introduce a number of changes. Firstly, charges will be clearer with independent financial advisers arranging an agreed up-front charge instead of commission. Services will be clearer, only independent financial advisers will be able to offer whole of market advice whilst other advisers will have limitations. Your service will be more professional because independent advisers will have to meet higher standards of qualifications and on-going professional development.

4 Castle Circus House, 136 Union St, Torquay & Beech Royd, 6 Bennetts Hill, Sidmouth t. 0845

351 9928

Investment & Financial Solutions Partnership LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority The Financial Services Authority does not regulate all forms of Estate Planning

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INVESTMENT & FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS PARTNERSHIP LLP

4 Castle Circus House, 136 Union St, Torquay & Beech Royd, 6 Bennetts Hill, Sidmouth t. 0845

351 9928

Independent advisers - will mean offering

to hold a higher minimum qualification.

advice on all the financial products

From January all financial advisers will

available in the market, without any

have to hold qualifications set at level 4.

restrictions or bias towards a particular

Advisers will also have to spend at least

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35 hours per year studying as part of their

Solutions Partnership will be offering full

continuing professional development.

independent advice as we believe this is

They will also be required to sign up to

the most beneficial for our clients.

the Financial Service Authority's (FSA)

Restricted advisers - will focus their advice

code of ethics.

on a specific range of products. This may be because they specialise in one area only

We have always aimed to offer clients

or because they work with a selected range

quality advice and believe that the new

of product providers. Your adviser will

changes will further enhance consumer

need to tell you which type of service they

experience so that professional, quality

are offering and explain any restrictions.

advice is available to you locally.

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From 2013 all advisers will be required

can help please phone on 0845 351 9928.

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

Helen Mulvaney (Partner) BA Hons, Dip M. DipPFS

Ian Pennicott (Partner) DipPFS

Helen has recently been awarded her Diploma and intends to continue her studies towards the Advanced Diploma. Helen is married with 2 young sons and therefore much of her spare time is spent with her family. She enjoys travelling and is particularly interested in art and history. She has a strong appreciation of Devon and the special quality of life that can be enjoyed living here.

Ian is working towards his Advanced Diploma in financial planning with the intention of becoming Chartered. However, in his spare time he enjoys hashing (a social running group), playing trombone in a jazz band and cooking. Ian and his partner Cathy enjoy their regular family Sundays.

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 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.

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INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISERS A specialist investment and retirement service covering all of south Devon

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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.

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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.

t. 0845 351 9928 4 Castle Circus House, 136 Union St, Torquay & Beech Royd, 6 Bennetts Hill, Sidmouth Investment & Financial Solutions Partnership LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority The Financial Services Authority does not regulate all forms of Estate Planning

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