South Devon Coast and Country Dec 13

DEC to JAN 2014

PRICELESS

SOUTH DEVON

The

regional coverage

Find me at 480 outlets...

1 South Devon's own magazine!

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Lincombe Manor

Residential and Nursing Care Home

Rated “excellent”

by CQC 3 regulators

A superb care home facility set in the beautifully landscaped grounds of a Grade II listed mansion with breathtaking sea views over Torbay.

Affordable luxury care in stylish accommodation with modern facilities in a stunning location.

Round the clock professional quality care to meet all dependency needs.

Live life at your own pace confident that support is available whenever you need it.

Long or short term stays • Individual bedrooms • En-suite walk-in wet rooms • Beautifully decorated • Library • TV lounge • Quiet room • Sun terrace • Magnificent sea views • Fine dining • Freshly prepared food • Events • Daily activities • Use of Manor House Club facilities including bar, bistro and gym

Unrivalled quality care in luxurious surroundings Permanent or respite care from £795 per week How to find us

Princess Theatre

2

Lincombe Manor Care Centre SOUTH DEVON Coast & Country Middle Lincombe Road, Torquay, Devon, TQ1 2AF

For more information call

01803 389800 or visit

www.manorlife.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Nigel Jones, Ted Gosling, John Fisher, Judi Spiers, Katina Styles, Helen Mulvaney, FCR Esgen, Ardley Chic, Janet East, Clare McComb, Mike Alsford, Amanda Crump, Averil Quinain, Natalie Bucklar-Green, Jill Cooke, Hazel Fergie.

EDITORIAL

Nigel Jones - Editor 01395 513383 nigel@prestige-media.co.uk Beech Royd, 6 Bennetts Hill, Sidmouth Devon EX10 9XH

PRODUCTION Charlotte Fergie

charlotte@prestige-media.co.uk

Lauren Howard

lauren@prestige-media.co.uk

ADVERTISING:

Richard Woodward - 01395 513383 richard@prestige-media.co.uk

ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

http://issuu.com/trouty/docs/environmental_policy

WHAT'S ON? southdevonhub

Currenty 2,465 organisations registered for promoting their events (& growing)

MAGAZINE ISSUES

Published bimonthly: February, April, June, August, October, December.

COAST & COUNTRY UNRIVALLED COVERAGE

The magazines (East and South Devon) are available at over 948 high quality outlets from Lyme Regis to Plymouth.

Outlet Google map: http://bit.ly/K7JN4E

DIGITAL MAGAZINE

FREE to view all issues at: www.prestige-media.co.uk/ magazines.htm

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION

SOS FOR TORBAY LASS She's only one of only six remaining from the once proud fleet of hundreds of Brixham sailing trawlers. A massive restoration job is urgently needed and of course, funding needs sourcing, but the Torbay community at large, headed by Brixham's Trinity Sailing Foundation have come to the rescue.

Read more on page 36.

Unlucky for some!

Most people think of winter as an anticlimax after the warmer brighter months and I know how they feel, the slide back into the 'dark' season takes some getting used to.

But there's something great about the festive season, even some 50 years later I still get a buzz.

There are so many great things synonymous with this time of year:- Sunday roasts, mince pies, snow, basking in front of a glowing pub fire, and even shopping visits down to my local town to enjoy all the twinkling lights and colourful window displays. Of even greater import are the New Year's resolutions, the trick here is to set your sights sufficiently high to allow for slight deviations, so at least you can make some minor gains.

2013's been an odd year for me personally, some minor traumas, odd occurrences and some great things also, perhaps it's down to the number '13'. Apparently it's been a dreadful year for the wedding industry (superstition and '13' prevailing), but 2014's getting heavily booked.

One project this year that I'm particularly proud of is the South Devon Hub website which we launched in February (development

of the web platform took 18 months prior to launch). It's been a bit of a 'bottomless pit' in many ways for us as a company, but the net result is that between South Devon Hub and East Devon Hub websites, there are now over 2,470 organisations registered and using them (it's still growing daily). What helps tremendously is that these websites appear in the number 1 spot in Google search terms such as "What's On South Devon" (East Devon) or just "What's On Devon".

Event information from registered organisations is now being seen by a massive number of people which ultimately brings communities closer together through participation and involvement. By the way, if you have a smartphone, there's a great mobile version in which you can search down to town and village level. There are some great additions and improvements scheduled over the winter months, we'll keep you posted.

We have a fairly hectic schedule for features in 2014. If you have interesting subject matter that you'd like to propose for inclusion in the magazine, please contact us.

We're still on the lookout for models for our Fashion Shoots at the moment, so if you'd like to be part of one of our shoots (great for portfolio building), please make contact.

In the meantime, have a great Christmas.

We look forward to bringing you more great magazines in 2014.

Nigel Jones (Editor) @CoastCountryMag

UK ÂŁ15 OVERSEAS FROM ÂŁ22

DISCLAIMER The publishers of this magazine are not responsible for any costs, loss or damage suffered by any person, persons, or company as a result of any advertisement or article in this magazine. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate.

All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given by the owner for use in this publication. The opinions and comments expressed are purely those of the originators. We do not endorse any products or services advertised within this magazine. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that information is correct, the publishers take no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Any person or persons undertaking the circular walk featured within this publication does so entirely at their own risk. If you take children or dogs on the walk, they will require supervision. We strongly advise that prior to travelling to any of the events listed in our What's On sections, that you call the event organisers to check that the event is running at the times and dates specified.

COPYRIGHT All material within this magazine are subject to copyright. Excepting adverts, all images within the magazine are copyright to N.Jones unless otherwise specified.

Cover photo: View from the Anchor Inn at Cockwood

by Mike Alsford.

Models pictured: Joel Mais, Ruth U'Ren, Harriet Hern.

Jewellery and watches from Michael Spiers and clothing from John Lewis, Exeter.

See Photo Shoot on page 16.

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

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18

DEC JAN 13/14

16

Contents ISSUE NO 10

6. Forthcoming Events

20. Star Gazing

34. Yellingham Farm

Find out what's not to be missed.

With broadcaster Judi Spiers

Colourful tales from Janet East.

10. Live Music Roundup

22. Exe Salmon Fishing

36. Save our Heritage

Get the info on local live music!

A disappearing way of life.

Clare McComb plea for Torbay Lass.

12. Art Gallery What's On

24. Tales of a Yokel

38. Festive South Devon

Art gallery events and Art Blog.

Yarns from the inimitable FCR Esgen.

Local events and shopping.

15. Nelson's Column

25. Eating Out

44. Kings of the Highway

John Fisher's sage viewpoint!

South Devon's best eateries.

Horse-drawn wagons by the Editor.

16. Photo Shoot

26. The Bombing of Exeter

48. Life Matters - Trampers

Mike Alsford at the Anchor Inn.

The 'Baedeker Raids' by John Fisher.

Local beauty spots are now open to all.

18. Artisan Gifts

30. Winter Lodging

51. But here's the thing

Home living by Amanda Merchant.

Pure conjecture from John Fisher.

Gift ideas for your loved ones.

4

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

Combe Wood House

Salcombe Regis, East Devon EX10 0JN Of architectural and historical importance adjoining Natural Trust woodland with magnificent sea and country views to the South and West, this wonderful three bedroom detached Grade II listed farmhouse is situated at the end of a private road, and is believed to have been constructed around 1560, of cob and stone elevations under a thatch roof.

rooms, cottage windows and doors and many substantial exposed beams.

The property has been significantly modernised blending quality additions with many lovely character features expected in a property of this period. There are two superb inglenook fireplaces in the reception

Please call our Sidmouth Branch for more information on 01395 578126.

Outside the gardens have been lovingly stocked and managed and provide an abundance of colour and interest throughout the summer, and are a perfect place to enjoy the quite stunning surrounding countryside and sea views.

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

5

FIND CHRISTMAS EVENTS on PAGE 38

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

CIRCUS OF HORRORS at PRINCESS THEATRE

December 2013 & January 2014

Forthcoming Events Events listings powered by: southdevonhub .co.uk

Children

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Choirs

WIZZ-KIDZ

CAN'T STAND SINGING

Until 06 Dec - Pure fun: football pitch, rock climbing wall, toddler play zone & party rooms, Wizz-Kidz, Brixham.

05 Dec - Join the Towersey Foundation's unique seated choir, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 2.00pm.

LANTERN PARADE

WINTER GALA

11 Dec - Lantern parade through town congregating at St Leonards Clock Tower, Newton Abbot Town Council, Newton Abbot.

07 Dec - Exeter Festival Chorus, The Band of Her Magisty's Royal Marines, J Dankworth, Exeter Festival Chorus, Exeter, 7.30pm.

THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF MR BENN

MENDLESSOHN'S ELIJAH 07 Dec - Full details at www.chagfordsingers. co.uk, Chagford Singers, Chagford, 7.30pm.

PIRATE WORKSHOPS

11 Dec - J.S.Bach-Cantata 140 "Wachet auf" F. Schubert-Mass in G.John Rutter-xmas music, Exeter Choral Society, Exeter.

EXETER CHORAL SOCIETY

THE GERMAN BAROQUE 14 Dec - Choral concert of Music of the German Baroque with a Consort of Strings, Ashburton Singers, Buckfast, 7.30pm.

LOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS EVENTS? See page 38 or visit southdevonhub!

WEST DEVON CHORALE 25 Jan - New Year choral classics, Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, 7.30pm.

02 Jan - Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra New Year Viennese Gala, The Great Hall Exeter University, Exeter, 7.30pm.

JOHANN STRAUSS GALA 10 Jan - A Viennese New Year, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Torquay, 7.30pm.

FLORIN ENSEMBLE 18 Jan - Music performed by Newton Abbot & District Society of Arts (NASDA), Teignmouth Community College, Teignmouth, 7.30pm.

BEETHOVEN'S EROICA 31 Jan - Beethoven's Eroica. b Kees Bakels Conducts Ronald Brautigam, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Exeter, 7.30pm.

ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLES FAIR 07 Dec - Wander amongst the many stalls in search of a hidden treasure, Newton Abbot Racecourse, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.

ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLES FAIR 14 Dec - Saturday Antique & Collectables fair, Matford Centre, Exeter, 10.00am.

'WIVES AND FRIENDS' 09 Jan - New Years Evening 'Wives and Friends', Torquay & Teignbridge Stamp Club, Kingsteignton.

Comedy JIMEOIN 01 Dec - World-class stand-up from internationally acclaimed star of Live at the Apollo, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter, 7.30pm.

ROBIN INCE - COMEDIAN 04 Dec - Robin Ince - Comedy, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth.

CONTINUED OVERLEAF

21ST INTERNATIONAL CONCERT SERIES 05 Dec - Divertimento Flute Trio, Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth, 1.00pm.

07 Dec - Mendelssohn: Elijah Haydn: Nelson Mass, St. Michaels Church, Chagford, 7.30pm.

southdevonhub .co.uk

20 Dec - The aim of the show is to make classical music wickedly funny & exhilarating, Northcott Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.

Collectors

Classical Music

CHAGFORD SINGERS

6

GRAFFITI CLASSICS

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

11 Dec to 04 Jan - Full of catchy songs and astounding magic, for everyone aged 4 to 104, Northcott Theatre, Exeter.

21 Dec to 04 Jan - Pirate workshops before/after seeing the show - a variety of fun & activities, Exeter Phoenix, Exeter.

12 Dec - Conductor Kirill Karabits, with Renaud Capucon - violin, The Great Hall Exeter University, Exeter, 7.30pm.

SOUTH DEVON

IMMODESTY BLAIZE

Friday 14th February - 7pm until 2.00am The British Icon of 21st Century Burlesque heads the spectacular cast of 'K&Q's Valentine's Burlesque and Boogie Ball' Tickets only £25pp. Riviera Centre Torquay TQ2 5LZ www.kinkyandquirky.com

Coast & Country

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Calls could be recorded/montored for training purposes. Cars must be registered by 3ist December 2013.

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for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

We can help you unlock your

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cremtor new:Layout 1

14/11/2010

18:16

Page 1

Cremtor

southdevonhub .co.uk

Equine Services

Craft WONDERWORKS ARTS & CRAFT FAIR 2013

Cremtor offers an efficient and experienced service, including collection and cremation of horses/ponies and domestic animals.

We also collect and dispose of all farm animals too. All calls are dealt with personally by Sally.

07 Dec to 08 Dec - A premier craft event in the South West, Wonderworks Craft Fair, Newton Abbot, 10.00am.

BASKET MAKING WORKSHOP 14 Dec - Basket makerHilary Burns will teach participants how to make a platter, Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Bovey Tracey, 10.00am.

CRAFT 4 CRAFTERS 30 Jan to 01 Feb - A great day out where all things are creative, Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 10.00am.

Fairs SANTA'S CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE 01, 07 & 15 Dec - Join two of Santa's elves as they take good boys and girls to meet Santa., Hannahs at SealeHayne, Newton Abbot, 12.00am.

VICTORIAN EVENING

Telephone: 01626 353990 or email sales@cremtor.co.uk www.cremtor.co.uk

04 Dec - Charity stalls, late night shopping/entertainment, carols, Santa in his grotto, Newton Abbot Town Council, Newton Abbot, 6.00pm.

ALL THINGS VINTAGE & LOVELY FAIR 07 Dec to 08 Dec - Vintage, retro, antique & handmade stalls. Music, magician, nativity & more, Plymouth Guildhall, Plymouth, 10.00am.

FESTIVE THURSDAYS 12 Dec - An evening of Christmas magic., Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 4.00pm.

Markets FARMERS & COUNTRY NEWTON ABBOT FARMERS MARKET 03 Dec - Incl. eggs, cheese, bread, pasties, pork, fruit and vegetables, chutneys, jams, Newton Abbot Farmers Market, Newton Abbot, 9.00am.

1913-2013

One Hundred Years of Service in South Devon

EXETER FARMERS MARKET 05, 12, 19 Dec - Thursdays. Local producers of fruit, veg & food stuffs, range of crafts etc, Exeter Farmers' Market, Exeter, 9.00am.

DAY TRIPS

BUCKFASTLEIGH FARMERS' MARKET

Sat 7 Dec - Dunster By Candlelight £24

05, 12, 19 Dec - Farmers market offering huge range of products, including fresh fruit & veg,, Buckfastleigh Farmers Market, Buckfastleigh, 9.00am.

Thurs 12 Dec - Xmas Drive & Dine, Mill End Hotel, Chagford £35 inc Wed 18 Dec - Moushole Chrismtas Lights £22

TOTNES MARKET

Fri 27 Dec - Post Christmas Mystery Trip £20

06 Dec to 07 Dec - Friday & Saturday market offering a feast of bargains and unusual products, Totnes Market, Totnes.

SHORT BREAKS 1 to 4 Apr 2014 - Isle Of Wight inc Osborne House. £230 per person*

MARKET DAYS EXMINSTER MARKET

15 to 18 Aug 2014 - Liverpool Weekend inc Beatles Tour& Port Sunlight £265 per person*

07 Dec - Varied mix of local food suppliers, handmade crafts and gifts, Exminster Market, Exminster, 9.30am.

*Single supplement applies

6 Daneheath Business Park, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6TL 01626 833038 | bookings@greycars.com | www.greycars.com

8

SOUTH DEVON

TOTNES MARKET 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 Dec - Friday & Saturday market offering a feast of bargains and unusual products, Totnes Market, Totnes.

TOTNES MARKET 03, 04, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 Jan - Friday & Saturday market offering a feast of bargains and unusual products, Totnes Market, Totnes.

TEIGNMOUTH LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET 18 Jan - Offers a wide range of fresh local produce, Teignmouth Local Produce Market, Teignmouth, 9.00am.

Heritage WEST COUNTRY TO WORLD'S END Until 20 Jan - Celebrating the spirit of adventure and enterprise of South West people., Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Exeter, 10.00am.

BRIXHAM HERITAGE MUSEUM Until 21 Dec - Autumn/Winter opening Tuesday - Saturday. Closed Christmas, Brixham Heritage Museum, Brixham, 10.00am.

EVENING LECTURE: 'CURIOUS DARTMOOR' 05 Dec - Illustrated talk on Dartmoor curios to be given by Moorland Guide Paul Rendell, Devon Rural Archive, Modbury, 7.00pm.

FESTIVE FEASTS 13 Dec to 21 Dec - Enjoy a festive two course lunch and mulled wine in Greenway House Kitchen, Greenway National Trust, Galmpton, 12.30am.

WEST COUNTRY TO WORLD'S END 02 Jan to 03 Mar - RAMM tell the story of the evocative period of the Tudor age in the South West, RAMM Gallery, Exeter, 10.00am.

BILL DOUGLAS CENTRE 02 Jan to 28 Mar - Museum dedicated to the History of Cinema and Popular Culture.

Open week days, Bill Douglas Centre, Exeter.

WEST COUNTRY TO WORLD'S END 21 Jan to 02 Mar - Celebrating the spirit of adventure and enterprise of South West people., Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Exeter, 10.00am.

Theatre SHAKESPEARE'S 'A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM' 06 Dec to 07 Dec - Shakespeare's summer masterpiece performed in Winter by the Inn Theatre Comp, Hazelwood House, Kingsbridge, 7.30pm.

JANE EYRE 10 Dec to 11 Jan - Passionate and romantic drama for Christmas and the New Year, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter.

OPEN THEATRE AUDITIONS FOR ROMEO & JULIET 22 Jan - Open auditions for this production., South Devon Players, Brixham, 7.00pm.

TEIGNMOUTH LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET 07, 14, 21 Dec - Community spirit with a variety of stalls and local produce, Ivybridge Community Market, Ivybridge, 9.30am.

Coast & Country

Feeling Festive?

See page 38 or visit southdevonhub!

YOU’LL BE SURPRISED AT WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER! • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

CRAFT & HOME GALLERY FASHION GALLERY KITCHENWARE GLASS GALLERY BAZAAR STATIONERY TOYS TOG 24 FOOD SHOP MY TIME TOILETRIES THE HAVEN SPA DYNAMIC ADVENTURES CLAY WORKSHOP CRANKS CAFE VENUS CAFE AND TAKEAWAY FOOD MARKET LAST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH

Open 7 days per week with plenty of parking. www.dartington.org/shops The Shops at Dartington for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk are wholly owned by the Dartington Hall Trust

and all profits go towards supporting the charitable activities of the Trust.

9

Live Music

Live Music Roundup

December 13 & January 14

POPULAR

Weekend on the English Riviera, M&J Promotions, Paignton, 2.00pm.

JOEY THE LIPS 07 Dec - Big band soul sound, The Wharf, Tavistock, 8.00pm.

ST AGNES FOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS CONCERT 08 Dec - David Hughes, Chris Leslie Chris While and Julie Matthews Christmas concert, Hannahs at SealeHayne, Newton Abbot, 7.30pm.

CLARE TEAL'S FESTIVE FIESTA 09 Dec - Blend of seasonal swing, cheeky Latin grooves & smattering of fireside ballads, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.

POWDERHAM CASTLE ORGAN FUND CHRISTMAS CONCERT 13 Dec - Christmas Music in Powderham Castle's Music Room: Bach, Telemann, Vivaldi etc, Powderham Castle Organ Fund, Kenton, 7.30pm.

FOLK ROOTS & ACOUSTIC

CONCERT BY ST DAVID'S SINGERS 04 Dec - Concert in aid of Hospital Radio Exeter., Cygnet Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm.

BRIXHAM FOLK CLUB 06 Dec - Enjoy some high quality live music this Friday evening, Brixham Folk Club, Brixham, 7.30pm.

ACOUSTIC ACADEMY XMAS PARTY 16 Dec - Blues Bar and Grill, Plymouth.

photo courtesy of Elina Kansikas

Saturday 14 December 2013 8.30pm MAD DOG MCREA - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE

BLUES

www.maddogmcrea.co.uk

THOMAS FORD & FRIENDS

14 Dec - A show to see! South Devon Arts Centre, Totnes, 8.30pm.

19 Dec - Electrifying blues talent in the form of this harp-playing, hard blues performer, B-Bar, Plymouth 9.00pm.

RUSSELL SINCLAIR

ANNIKA SKOOGH TRIO

MAD DOG MCREA

18 Dec - A singer songwriter from Plymouth drawing influence from many different genres of music, Blues Bar and Grill, Plymouth.

BUS STOP CAFE 18 Jan - An evening of Rock and Pop Music at Heart of Oak, Bus Stop Cafe, Exeter.

JAZZ

CHARLIE HEARNSHAW'S CAFE 01 Dec - Sunday evening Jazz at the Royal British Legion, Plymouth Jazz Club, Plymouth, 7.30pm.

10 Jan - Entertaining Bluegrass covers, B-Bar, Plymouth, 9.00pm.

ELKIE BROOKS 24 Jan - The British Queen of Blues is visiting Devon, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter, 8.00pm.

Scan Me! To get instant access to these events and more, use your smartphone or tablet to scan this QR code below.

Going from strength to strength Devon-based Mike and the Dogs have a couple of gruelling national tours under their collective belts and a back catalogue of excellent recorded material…not sure how to categorise (and I’m not sure this would achieve much anyway…) but the guys deliver a cracking show of what they call ‘shake yer arse’ high energy music coupled with some fine musicianship which nods in the direction of bluegrass (not really), gypsy jazz (not really either…) with a whole load of other stuff buried in the mix…go see! It’s a fine, fine night out and you will going back for more. £10 advance, £12 on door. Full details/ ticketing www.southdevonarts.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.

ROCK/H-METAL

A TOTAL STRANGER

TAKE 4 FEATURING LYNN THORNTON 18 Dec - Swing and early modern jazz at the Teignmouth Jazz Club, Take4 Jazz, Teignmouth, 8.00pm.

6 Dec - A Rock/Pop Solo Artist, The Ships Tavern, Elburton.

JAZZ WEEKEND

14 Dec - Contemporary Rock and Punk covers from the late 1960s, Thistle Park Tavern, Plymouth.

THE BARRACOODAS

17 Jan to 20 Jan - Winter Jazz

ROCK N ROLL OUTLAWS XMAS PARTY 21 Dec - 3-PIECE local rock band, The Wharf, Tavistock, 7.00pm.

RUSTY ANGELS 21 Dec - Rock covers Band with a great range of songs, Thistle Park Tavern, Plymouth.

MUSIC CONTRIBUTOR WANTED!!!

Are you keen on live music? - we're on the lookout for someone to help compile music event features for this magazine and to help with live music listings on southdevonhub If you're interested, please call Nigel on 01395 513383 or email nigel@prestige-media.co.uk

10

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

Find more Live Music Events online Find more live music events on the hub, and add your own by registering online at:

southdevonhub .co.uk

photo © Christophe Cohen 2013

Fri 24th Jan 8.00pm (doors 7.15pm) ELKIE BROOKS - Exeter Corn Exchange

photo courtesy of Kirstie Hunt Photography

Sunday 8th December 7.30PM ST AGNES FOUNTAIN - Hannahs at Seale Hayne, nr Newton Abbot TQ12 6NQ

www.elkiebrooks.com

Not quite sure what to expect, I saw Elkie recently in North Devon and was completely knocked out! I also sneaked in at the Corn Exchange when she appeared there last time round and watched the sound check. This lady belts them out like a good ‘un! Fabulous, gutsy voice and a rockin’ good band for the lady who once fronted the brilliantly-named Vinegar Joe… a ‘Pearl of a Singer’!!

Tickets £23.50. BOX OFFICE: 01392 665938 or on-line at www.intelligent-tickets. com (Incurs a 5% charge per booking)

www.whileandmatthews.co.uk

Fairport Convention’s current in-house songwriter-in-chief and multi-instrumentalist Chris Leslie, founder member David Hughes and BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Winners for Best Duo, Chris While & Julie Matthews in their now annual Christmas show (since 2001) packed full of colourful banter, fabulous musicianship and (of course - what did you expect?) stunning vocal genius from Chris and Julie. Tickets at £15 from Diana & Nigel on 01803 813876. www.discoverhannahs.org

FEATURED BAND: East Devon based Rock and Pop covers band Bus Stop Café have developed a loyal following across the county eager to have a good night out. The band play a mix of styles from early sixties pop, through seventies rock to eighties new wave and beyond.

Bus Stop Café

"They're a local favourite”

Lead singer Mel Cole is as equally happy singing Fleetwood Mac as singing Adele and has the type of voice that holds an audience spell bound.

Her vocals are complemented by a back line consisting of East Devon music scene stalwarts Allan Williams (Drums), Martin Caldwell (Bass) and Richard Woodward (Rhythm Guitar). Lead Guitar is provided by ex-Lazy Lizards Guitarist Paul Bacon a true virtuoso who can adapt his licks to suit any genre.

The band started out many years ago and have changed line up several times, with ex members such as Phil Evans, now a successful solo artist and Andy Cable the present owner of Axe Music in Axminster.

Each new member has brought with them a wealth of experience and new influences, helping to keep an energy within the bands repertoire.

Their upcoming outings in the county will be at the Kingfisher in Colyton on the 14th December and at the Heart of Oak in Pinhoe, Exeter on the 18th January 2014. All of Bus Stop Cafe's up coming gigs are posted on East Devon Hub and there are links to the Facebook page from here. Guitarist Richard says the hub is a hugely valuable tool to us, not only for promoting the gigs, but also to provide a great link for our fans to find out what we are up to.

Contact Allan to book on 07778 645873 facebook.com/busstopcafeuk

Photo courtesy of Mike Gormley

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

11

Forthcoming Exhibitions December 13 & January 14

Nicky Carole - 'Untitled 1' - Lime Square

'Kirkcudbright harbour' - D'art Gallery

Aine Venables - 'Bird Type' - Devon Guild of Craftsmen

GALLERIES MIXED ART EXHIBITION

ARTISTS MAKE FACES

Until 01 Dec - Andrea Bray, Jenny Brown, Mary Hall and Ann Ward, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 9.30am.

Until 07 Dec - Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth, 10.00am.

ESSENTIALLY ME!

Until 20 Dec - An exhibition of Christmas gifts made by the resident artists, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 10.00am.

Until 01 Dec - Share in the wonder that objects and their stories can arouse, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Exeter, 10.00am.

PAINTINGS BY MARK JESSETT & GREG NEWMAN Until 01 Dec - Contemporary Art Exhibition - paintings by Mark Jessett and Greg Newman, Mark & Milly, Ashburton, 11.00am.

LUKE FOWLER Until 01 Dec - Artist Film by Turner Prize nominated artist, Plymouth Arts Centre, Plymouth, 10.00am.

Events listings powered by:

southdevonhub .co.uk to get your ART GALLERY EVENTS in this listings section, you need to enter your events into the HUB - it's free

CHRISTMAS GIFTS EXHIBITION

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY Until 06 Jan - Inspiring designs from 6 new jewellers, with new work from current exhibitors, Victoria Sewart Contemporary Jewellery, Plymouth.

Until 25 Jan - Mixed Christmas Exhibition. Paintings Sculpture Ceramics and Jewellery, Artmill Gallery, Plymouth.

WINTER COLLECTION AT ART AT AVON MILL Until 30 Jan - Our Winter collection comprises of four varied and talented artists, Art at Avon Mill, Loddiswell.

WHAT DO YOU COLLECT? COOKING THE BOOKS

Until 11 Jan - An exhibition of Abstract Art, Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth, 10.00am.

Until 02 Feb - One man's collection of cookery books and food related ephemera, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Exeter, 10.00am.

CONTEMPORARY CERAMICS, GLASS AND METALWORK

NEW ARTISTS, JEWELLERY AND FUSED GLASS

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

Until 15 Jan - Ceramics, glass and metalwork by artists based in Devon or Cornwall, 45 Southside Gallery, Plymouth, 10.00am.

TALIA LEHAVI EXHIBITION Until 25 Jan - Exhibition of work by artist Talia Lehavi, Yume Jewellery, Ashburton.

You’re potty if you don’t!

Just go to REGISTER

12

ARTMILL GALLERY CHRISTMAS SHOW

01 Dec to 31 Jan - New paintings from Allan Morgan and Rob Hefferan, Mayne Gallery, Kingsbridge.

NICKY CAROLE - ENCAUSTIC WAX PAINTINGS 01 Dec to 31 Jan - Beautiful, stunning, vibrant encaustic wax paintings by Nicky Carole, Lime Square, Ivybridge, 9.00am.

Stellar Graduates - Flavel

What’s on show at the gallery New originals from Brian Pollard, James Millward and David Gray.

Also latest prints from Richard Thorn.

Christmas Affordable Art Fair

7 to 21 Dec - Devonport Guildhall. www.kayagallery.co.uk 01752 267474 53 Southside Street, The Barbican, Plymouth

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

'Promande' - Kaya Gallery Clare Holmes - Artmill Gallery

EXETER'S FINE ART COLLECTION

STUDIO - GALLERY

EXHIBITION - NARRATIVE REMAINS

04 Dec to 06 Apr - This display includes works by major artists of both the 19th & 20th centuries, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Exeter, 10.00am.

16 Jan to 25 Jan - Rob & Sian Dudley are Artists in Residence in the gallery at Harbour House, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.

18 Jan to 23 Mar - Exhibition of mixed craft work exploring the link between words and making, Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Bovey Tracey, 10.00am.

EMERGENT : FACULTY OF ARTS 07 Dec to 15 Jan - Masters Show, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth, 10.00am.

TAONGA: MÄORI TREASURES OF THE NATURAL WORLD Amanda Pellatt - 'Peacock Suit' - Harbour House

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL 03 Dec to 15 Dec - Colourful impressionist paintings by Amanda Pellatt, Harbour House, Kingsbridge, 10.00am.

ART BITE: PAINTING AS 'OBJECT'

14 Dec to 08 Jun - A look at a small collection of MÄori objects from the museum's collections, Royal Albert Memorial Museum RAMM, Exeter, 10.00am.

WINTER GARDEN (WITH ADDED SPARKLE) EXHIBITION 16 Dec to 23 Dec - A wonderfully artistic Winter Garden with twinkle...

Incidental Imagery, Totnes, 11.00am.

04 Dec - Learn more about our latest exhibition, Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth, 1.00pm.

Chris Deakin - "Sleeping Tractor" - Somerville Gallery

83 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth PL3 4JN Tel: 01752 255020

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

Our Gallery Need ideas for a gift this Christmas?

Apart from local, national and international originals and signed limited editions, ceramics and art clocks, we also have a wide range of greeting cards and a gift wrapping service available.

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

15 Glanvilles Mill, Ivybridge t. 01752 698119 www.lime-square.co.uk

Nicky Carole Encaustic Wax Paintings 1 Dec to 31 Jan Beautiful, stunning, vibrant encaustic wax paintings by Nicky Carole.

Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm

26 Torwood Street, Torquay TQ1 1EB 01803 296064

At the gallery...

Fabian Perez New collection now available in store.

A visit to Triton Galleries will surely inspire any art lover. We have a fantastic selection of original artwork and collectable limited edition prints from some of the worlds most acclaimed artists. www.tritongalleries.co.uk torquay@tritongalleries.co.uk

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

GALLERY & FRAMING CENTRE

EXHIBITIONS Christmas Show - Until 25 Jan Mixed Exhibition. Paintings Sculpture Ceramics and Jewellery. Featuring Vincent Wilson, Adela Powell, Katrina Solano, Beryl Coles, Helen Billinghurst, Natalie Outhwaite, Rita Smith, Michael Hill and Connor McIntyre.

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm

13

t r A Art Blog

Me: “Excuse me, but we do not allow photography in the gallery.”

Visitor: “Oh, sorry. Why can’t I take pictures?”

Me: “We have to protect the copyright for artists and can’t allow any photographing.”

(The visitor shrugs, but later I notice she has taken out her smart phone holding it up in the air while taking pictures of the art and talking loudly at the same time)

Me: “Excuse me, but like I said before, we do not allow photography in the gallery.”

Owner Brenda Reach, D’art Gallery

A day in the life of a gallery (There are “No Photography” signs posted in the gallery in order to protect artist copyright. A gallery visitor pulls out her camera and starts photographing paintings)

Visitor: “I wasn’t taking pictures, I was talking on the phone!”

Me: “I’m sorry but you were holding it over your head.”

Visitor: “Well, it’s none of your business how I talk on my phone.”

And as she left in an obvious huff muttered, “Besides, I don’t think any of them were in focus.”

GLASS!!

• Glass wall art • Contemporary Glass

Also Showing Work by many other leading artists • Feature glassglass artists

• Bespoke Design Service • Corporate Design

19 The Parade Plymouth PL1 2JN 01752 204069

14

Blog

www.dartmouthglass.com www.facebook.com/PlymouthAndDartmouthGlass

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

3 Foss Street Dartmouth TQ6 9DW 01803 833383

Art Galleries

A point of view!

Nelson’s Column

by JOHN FISHER

An end to grazing in Devon cinemas It will interest (but alarm) that unique breed

Budleigh on Mafia alert THE TUNA-CATCHING BUSINESS in the

from the back office to read that in tests the

Mediterranean having been muscled-in

half (that’s FIFTY PER CENT, guys!) of a

on by the Sicilian Mafia (according to the

cinema audience given popcorn to eat had zilch

EU Fisheries Inspectorate) perhaps it’s not

recall of the ads they had been fed on the big

surprising that small shoals of tuna seem to

screen whilst the other half – who were only

be fleeing the Med’ in their efforts to escape

permitted to chew their nails presumably –

the nets and clutches of what Italians call

trotted out everything expected of them at

l’economia sommersa and heading our way.

the end of the showing.

Witness the specimen tuna that was hauled

Back to the feature THERE ARE 770 CINEMAS in the UK and

ashore off the mouth of the River Otter at Budleigh Salterton earlier this autumn.

goodness knows how many actual ‘screens’.

How long will it take cinema advertisers

In Devon we can boast 60-something.

to cotton on to these facts? Will cinema

Honestly.

advertising in Devon eventually decline as a

This was a skipjack tuna and the first to be

result of these findings? Will the sales of hot

caught in British waters according to Mike

of them also sell cooked foods – which fact

food likewise cool off? Will sales of food in

Heylin of the British Record Fish Committee.

assaults the olfactory organs of the unwary

cinemas be confined to immediately prior to

All of them sell popcorn and drinks, many

the moment they join the ticket queue.

the main feature? It’s already being trialled

The 2ft long fish, was found in two-feet of

in California.

water by two local fisherman, Leo Curtis and

Olden-days people will remember when the

friend Ian Carrott who told a reporter that

only things one could buy to eat or drink at the

they had tried to direct it back out to sea but

pictures* were ice creams in tubs and orange

that the exhausted fish had died. This fact

squash sucked through straws.

nevertheless did not save it from being taken home and barbecued.

*EXPLANATORY NOTE: “Pictures” is what But as Il Commissario Montalbano* - that food-

Classic FM calls “the movies”.

loving police inspector of the imaginary town of Vigata, Sicily would say - “Where the tuna

Back to the future

swim, the Mafia will surely follow!”

Problem is, would the soundtrack of the

Now, thanks to the findings of research carried

forthcoming second part of the Hobbit trilogy

Budleigh’s promenade strollers might be wise

out by Cologne University, all of this could

THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG allow Bilbo

to keep their eyes open – for tuna as well as for

change and we may be at the dawn of a new

Baggins to be heard over the tummy rumblings

men in dark glasses carrying violin cases - as

golden age of cinema-going where people cook

of an audience deprived of food during the

the warmer waters return to lap Budleigh’s

and eat at home and then go to the pictures

film’s 210-minute running time?

pebbles again next Spring.

to watch films. Wouldn’t that be something? *And if you have just joined us – you can catch Chewing makes us immune to film advertising, their findings reveal. How so? Well, adverts

Pre-Christmas Cheer

up with the repeats of Montalbano on BBC4, Saturdays at 9.00 p.m.

imprint brand names on our brains because our lips and tongue automatically simulate the pronunciation of a new name when we hear it.

Every time we are given a new name our mouth subconsciously practices its pronunciation.

But this “inner speech” is disrupted by chewing: so says the Journal of Consumer

Overheard in the public bar of The Weary Badger, somewhere in Devon, last Sunday morning.

“It’s not right. He was eleven years with that Council and then right out of the blue they gave him the DCM.”

Psychology, a must-read mag’ for market

“DCM?”

research departments throughout The

“Don’t Come Monday!”

Wonderful World of Advertising.

Er, scusi? Che ha ordinato l’insalata di tonno?

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

15

The Anchor Inn at Cockwood photo shoot

Joel Watch - Michael Spiers Rolex Datejust, £8,400 Clothing - John Lewis Giant Lambswool Burgandy Jumper, £85 Tommy Hilfiger Blue Checked Shirt, £80 Ruth Jewellery & watches - Michael Spiers Diamond Earrings from Rosabella collection, £1,945 Diamond Pendant from Rosabella collection, £1,650 Diamond Scatter Ring by Michael Spiers, £4,950 Diamond Tennis Bracelet by Michael Spiers, £7,950 TAG Heuer Aquaracer Watch, £2,995 Clothing - John Lewis Mint Velvet Charcoal Waterfall Cardigan, £89

Watches & Jewellery by

FASHION SHOOT CONTRIBUTORS MODELS: Steve Lane, Joel Mais, Ruth U’Ren, Harriet Hern

T R U R O

P L Y M O U T H

LOCATION: The Anchor Inn, Cockwood anchorinncockwood.com

MAKE-UP: Sarah Bennett sarah-bennett.co.uk

HAIR STYLING: Lindy Ewings hairbylyndyewings.co.uk

CLOTHING: John Lewis johnlewis.com

WATCHES: Michael Spiers michaelspiers.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: Mike Alsford mikealsford.com

E X E T E R

T A U N T O N

michaelspiers.co.uk Michael Spiers Jewellers is an independent family owned business based in the south West.

We have sold exclusive jewellery, watches and accessories for more than 60 years, gaining a formidable reputation for not compromising on our service or the quality of our product.

With stores in Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth and Truro, we look forward to welcoming you to whichever showroom you choose to visit. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring, wedding bands, or a gift for someone special, our experienced and expert team will be able to assist you. We sell the world’s top brands and ensure they meet the highest expectation of our discerning clients.

Our team of master craftsmen in our workshops based in Plymouth and London create exquisite jewellery.

If you want bespoke jewellery, they can undertake a commission to create something completely unique for you. We belong to the Guild of Master Craftsmen and the National Association of Goldsmiths, and our diamonds and gems are ethically sourced.

Adam Spiers, Director, comments: “Buying a ring or a key piece of jewellery is a big decision because it is both a financial and emotional investment. Beautiful jewellery lasts a lifetime, so it is important to get it right, seek the right advice and know what you’re buying. You can’t beat the romance of a diamond but jewellery is not only an investment, but also an heirloom in the making for generations to come.”

stores are officially appointed Rolex agencies and we are proud to stock timepieces from brands including Rolex, Patek Philippe, OMEGA, Breitling, Tag Heuer, Bell & Ross and Tissot.

We have made some great friends and built up a very loyal client base across the region and beyond and our team of experts looks forward to serving our customers for years to come. We guarantee a warm welcome.

A luxury watch is the ultimate finishing touch for and across our network of stores in the South West, we stock an array of watch brands for all budgets and tastes. All our

Clothing by johnlewis.com

All clothing for this fashion shoot were supplied by John Lewis, Exeter. Garment fashions are detailed further on in this feature.

Continued overleaf

Joel: T R U R O

P L Y M O U T H

E X E T E R

T A U N T O N

Watch - Michael Spiers Rolex Yacht Master, £12,500

Clothing - John Lewis Ted Baker Natural Button Through Cardigan, £110 Tommy Hilfiger Blue Checked Shirt, £80

Harriet:

Jewellery & watches - Michael Spiers Diamond Earrings from Shimmer collection by Michael Spiers, £3,250 Diamond Ring by Michael Spiers, £7,950

Clothing - John Lewis Jigsaw Dusty Rose Sweater, £89

Steve: Watch - Michael Spiers OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300, £2700 Clothing - John Lewis Ted Baker Navy Double Breasted Coat, £279 Lyle and Scott Royal Red Scarf, £35

Harriet: Jewellery & watch - Michael Spiers Gucci Guccissima Watch, £395 Gucci Boule Necklet, £170 Gucci Boule Earrings £165 Diamond Ring by Michael Spiers, £7,950

In conjunction with:

Clothing - John Lewis Whistles Black Leather Biker Jacket, £295 Jigsaw Dusty Rose Sweater, £89

T R U R O

P L Y M O U T H

E X E T E R

and

T A U N T O N

Venue kindly provided by

The Anchor Inn anchorinncockwood.com The Anchor is situated at Cockwood, a charming and quaint location on the opposite side of the Exe Estuary to Exmouth. We wish to thank Scott and all the staff for their kind help whilst we were on location for the shoot.

Apparently, the Anchor was originally built as a Seamen’s Mission and was a known haunt of smugglers in times gone by, it’s certainly old and characterful.

It’s really great to see old pubs like this still in existence, since over the last decade, many have been refurbished to the point of losing their unique identity.

It’s a great location to visit (by the way) if you wish to savour a traditional pint in an historic location. The harbour is

called ‘Cockwood Sod’ and flows into the Exe through 2 historic bridges built

by Isambard Kingdom Brunel for the ill fated ‘Atmospheric Railway’ project. I visited in the summer for a pint and crab sandwich and spent a lovely hour relaxing by the harbour side

Joel: Watch - Michael Spiers Rolex Datejust, £8,400 Clothing - John Lewis Gant Lambswool Burgandy Jumper, £85 Tommy Hilfiger Blue Checked Shirt, £80 Barbour Olive Wax Jacket, £219 John Lewis Burgandy Birdseye Scarf, £35 Harriet: Jewellery & watch - Michael Spiers Rolex Datejust, £7,450 Diamond Stud Earrings by Michael Spiers, £3,500 Diamond Eternity Ring by Michael Spiers, £2,500 Clothing - John Lewis Four Seasons Navy Duffle Coat, £199 Ruth: Jewellery & watch - Michael Spiers Rolex Datejust, £11,500 Diamond Ring by Michael Spiers, £5,500 Clothing - John Lewis Jigsaw Light Blue Cable Sweater, £79

Fashion Shoot..

COAST & COUNTRY

VIEW PREVIOUS SHOOTS REED HALL, EXETER UNIVERSITY - VELVETEEN EMPORIUM A Grade II listed building was the perfect place to start off our fashion shoot adventure. The clothing, supplied by Velveteen Emporium is inspired by the bygone era for men and women which is known as Steampunk or Neo Victoriana. The owners, Jon and Julie said “Was great to meet you yesterday, looks like Mike has done it again, great images.”

velveteen.co.uk

|

exeter.ac.uk/reedhall

BUCKLAND ABBEY - TESS DESIGNS & KATE HIGHAM JEWELLERY Home to Drake’s famous Drum, Buckland Abbey was a truly beautiful place to hold this fashion shoot.

National Trust kindly granted permission to use the Abbey as the location for the Aug/Sept 2013 magazine. We collaborated with two Ashburton based businesses, Tess Designs and artisan jewellery designer/maker Kate Higham. See more at:

tessdesigns.co.uk

|

kate-higham.com

ANCHOR INN - JOHN LEWIS AND MICHAEL SPIERS Located alongside the charming harbour at Cockwood, the Anchor Inn was a characterful setting for this shoot. Winter fashions from John Lewis and exquisite jewellery & watches from Michael Spiers displayed warmly at this rustic and historic location.

See more at:

johnlewis.com

|

michaelspiers.co.uk

|

anchorinncockwood.com

August/September issue - Reed Hall, Exeter University AUG to SEPT 2013

Steampunk / Neo-Victoriana - Velveteen Emporium

PRICELESS

EAST DEVON

MODELS: Leila Eddakille (above) Lilli-May Webb (right) Jason Collins (left & below) Charlie Smith (left)

MODEL AGENCY Prime Model Agency, Devon

LOCATIONS Fashion: Reed Hall Exeter University Cover: Dawlish & Budleigh Salterton

MAKE-UP: Fashion Shoot: Sally Ewin Cover Shoot: Susan Thompson

CLOTHING / JEWELLERY VELVETEEN - velveteen.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: Cover & Fashion: Mike Alsford 01626 864030 alsfordpictures.com

Velveteen Emporium www.velveteen.co.uk

We at the Velveteen Emporium sell what is called by some, Neo Victoriana or Steampunk clothes and jewellery. This combines the elegance and styling of a bygone era for men and women with the comfort and convenience of 21st century street wear.

A year on from when we opened our doors, we are leaving the shop now to take what we have created on the road in a bespoke trailer with stage frontage. Our aim is to reach as many people as we can in events across England, advertising our now on line shop, and hopfuly bring a little magic, theatre and wonder with our ladies and gentlemens clothing, plus hats and other fancy goods.

Our humble beginnings started at a charity event called BMAD (Bikers Make A Difference) in Paignton South Devon in May 2012.

After a number of events and many "do you have a shop?" we settled down at McCoys Arcade Exeter to create a small, but beautiful boutique environment for our collection of clothing from around the world.

The people behind Velveteen Proprietors Jon Massey and Julie Dunn sales@velveteen.co.uk

Fashion Shoot..

COAST & COUNTRY

for forWhat's What'sOn On, ,visit: visit: eastdevonhub eastdevonhub.co.uk .co.uk

EAST EASTDEVON DEVONCCoast oast&&CCountry ountry

26

We're on the lookout for clothing, jewellery, locations for our pictorial fashion shoot. If your company would like to participate, please call Nigel Jones on 01395 513383.

EXETER EAST DEVON WEST DORSET

27

October/November issue - Buckland Abbey (National Trust) OCT to NOV 2013

PRICELESS

In association with:

SOUTH DEVON

Buckland Abbey photo shoot MODEL: Jazz Furphy LOCATION: Buckland Abbey National Trust

GROUNDS OF BUCKLAND ABBEY Top by Sandwich £56.00 Matching scarf by Sandwich £36.50 Lagos Trousers by White Stuff £65.00 Cardigan by Sandwich £86.00 Leather bag by Owen Barry £100.00

MAKE-UP: Sarah Bennett sarah-bennett.co.uk HAIR STYLING: Lindy Ewings hairbylyndyewings.co.uk CLOTHING: Tess Designs tessdesigns.co.uk JEWELLERY: Kate Higham kate-higham.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: Mike Alsford alsfordpictures.com

CIDER PRESS Sabine Cardigan by White Stuff 47.50 T-shirt by Great Plains £20.00 Moonrise knit skirt by White Stuff £45.00 Navy leather bag £50.00

DRAKE'S DRUM Orsina dress by Masai £66.50 T-shirt by Great Plains £20.00

Clothing by www.tessdesigns.co.uk Stocking a range of labels that include the best contemporary womenswear, we have designs that give customers a bit more individuality and exclusivity than they'd normally expect to find on the high street. Our staff are knowledgeable and approachable, they're ready to help you find something great for a special occasion or for everyday wear. Colour and style advice can be given if required by the customer in order that you get the best purchase. Tess Designs are based in Ashburton at 6 West Street. Be sure to visit soon to see their latest ranges.

Jewellery by www.kate-higham.com Kate has a special affinity with the different qualities of the stones and precious metals she uses in a way that enables the stones, beads and metals she uses to work in harmony with each other. Kate pays particular attention to each client's individual requirements particularly with regard to skin tone, hair and clothing style, as well as the potential jewellery size. Kate's shop and studio is based in Ashburton and is open for browsing her latest range and also by appointment for those that wish to commission pieces for special occasions. If you have the time to visit whilst in Ashburton, you'll be sure of a very warm welcome.

Fashion Shoot..

COAST 18 & COUNTRY

1

SOUTH SOUTH DEVON DEVON C Coast oast&& C Country ountry

Want to get involved in our Fashion Shoot, call Richard or Nigel visit: on 01395 513383 .co.uk for for What's On,, visit: southdevonhub southdevonhub.co.uk

ORCHARD Farrow dress by White Stuff 45.00 19 Sergeant Parka Cardi by White Stuff 65.00

December/January issue - Cockwood & The Anchor Inn DEC to JAN 2014

photo shoot: The Anchor Inn at Cockwood

PRICELESS

SOUTH DEVON

FASHION SHOOT CONTRIBUTORS MODELS: Steve Lane, Joel Mais, Ruth U’Ren, Harriet Hern See bottom of page

LOCATION: The Anchor Inn, Cockwood anchorinncockwood.com

MAKE-UP: Sarah Bennett sarah-bennett.co.uk HAIR STYLING: Lindy Ewings hairbylyndyewings.co.uk CLOTHING: John Lewis johnlewis.com

Watches & Jewellery by

WATCHES: Michael Spiers michaelspiers.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY: Mike Alsford mikealsford.com

Photography by

mike alsford mikealsford.com

michaelspiers.co.uk Michael Spiers Jewellers is an independent family owned business based in the South West. We have sold exclusive jewellery, watches and accessories for more than 60 years, gaining a formidable reputation for not compromising on our service or the quality of our product.

With stores in Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth and Truro, we look forward to welcoming you to whichever showroom you choose to visit. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring, wedding bands, or a gift for someone special, our experienced and expert team will be able to assist you. We sell the world’s top brands and ensure they meet the highest expectation of our discerning clients.

Photographer Mike Alsford is no stranger to the world of costume and lighting.

Extensively published in UK national newspapers and magazines, Mike has specialised in shooting picture publicity for some 75+ television productions involving photoshoots with many well known performers and professionals, ranging from household faces from our cherished soaps, through to eminent actors of TV and screen. The music world has also graced his lens.

Joel: Rolex Datejust, £8,400.

Ruth: Diamond earrings from Rosabella collection, £1,945, Diamond pendant from Rosabella collection, £1,650. Diamond Scatter ring by Michael Spiers, £4,950, diamond tennis bracelet

by Michael Spiers, £7,950, TAG Heuer Aquaracer watch, £2,995.

Joel: Rolex Yacht- Master, £12,500. Harriet:. Diamond earrings from Shimmer collection by Michael Spiers, £3,250.Diamond pendant from Shimmer collection by Michael Spiers, £2,250.

Diamond ring by Michael Spiers, £7,950.

Jewellery & watches - all supplied by Michael Spiers.

Clothing by John Lewis - see the digital magazine for details.

Gucci Guccissima watch, £395. Gucci Boule necklet, £170. Gucci Boule earrings £165. Diamond ring by Michael Spiers, £7,950.

Clothing by johnlewis.com All clothing for the fashion shoot were supplied by John Lewis, Exeter. For more information see the digital version of this magazine at eastdevonhub or southdevonhub.co.uk

Mike is available for promotional portrait shoots for musicians, actors and other performers, including models building their portfolio. He would also like to remind the business and corporate communities that quality portraits can add to effective PR. See more at www.mikealsford.com or call 01626 864030 and 07850 028641

Jewellery & watches - all supplied by Michael Spiers.

Clothing by John Lewis - see the digital magazine for details.

Left - OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300, £2700 - Michael Spiers.

Clothing by John Lewis - see the digital magazine for details.

The Models Supplied by South West Fashion and Models www.southwestfashionandmodels.co.uk Steve Lane

Harriet Hern

Joel Mais

Ruth U’Ren

The

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1 South Devon's own magazine!

Photographer Mike Alsford is no stranger to the world of costume and lighting

Photography by

mike alsford mikealsford.com

Already extensively published in UK national newspapers and magazines, Mike has specialised in shooting picture publicity for some 75+ television productions involving photoshoots with many well known performers and professionals, ranging from household faces from our cherished soaps, through to eminent actors of TV and screen. The music world has also graced his lens.

Mike is happy to offer versatile promotional portrait shoots for musicians, actors and other performers, including models putting together their book.

He would also like to remind the business and corporate communities that quality portraits can add to effective PR. See more at:

www.mikealsford.com or call 01626 864030 and 07850 028641

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MODELS PHOTOGRAPHY MASSIVE EXPOSURE (DIGITAL & PAPER) We can provide you with the whole package to promote your business. You get your products and brand featured in the fashion shoot within the magazine and also within the extended digital magazine. The rates for retailers are heavily subsidised, so there’s restricted availability - it’s operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Speak to Richard or Nigel on 01395 513383

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Fashion Shoot..

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Want to get involved in our fashion shoot?

Want your business featured on our Cover and in the Fashion section? We're on the lookout for clothing, jewellery, locations and models for our pictorial fashion shoot. Call Nigel Jones on 01395 513383.

Victoria Sewart Contemporary Jewellery Gallery Showcasing over 50 British designers Christmas Exhibition 2013 Inspiring jewellery from 6 new designers: Cindy Ashbridge, Chie Mannami, Jane Dzisiewski, Jo McAllister, Lynsey Brooks & Sandra Austin

For more Jewellery, Online Shop and Jewellery Workshops (including ‘Making Your Own Wedding Rings’) Visit us at:

www.victoriasewart.com

01752 220011 28

39 Southside Street The Barbican Plymouth

SOUTH DEVON

A great opportunity to get your fashion and jewellery range, vehicles or location featured in this magazine and on the cover - the COAST & COUNTRY fashion shoot alongside a professional photographer and at stunning locations, all at heavily subsidised rates. We run a restricted number of shoots a year, so it's first-come, first-served. Don't miss out, call Richard or Nigel now on 01395 513383.

Coast & Country

F ine artisan gifts ideas from South Devon

Artisan Gifts

Designer earrings

from: Victoria Sewart see advert below - far left

Unique bespoke leathercraft from: Brodequin see advert below left

Below - Tim Winser is a craftsman designer/maker with a passion for fine wood pieces, alloying extreme craftsmanship with design flair and extensive knowledge of hardwoods to create some interesting and original pieces. His workshop is based Ermington and he's previously been involved with the Princes Trust scheme. Tim is open for both commissions and also sells his own designs. It's worth visiting his website to see his range and he also you welcomes you to email or call him at his workshop. www.winserwoodworks.co.uk Designer/maker Tim Winser at his workshop in Ermington Above - lovely, unique artisan jewellery by Kate Higham Artisan jeweller Kate Higham, based at the southern foot of Dartmoor in Ashburton, designs and makes her own jewellery, which have immense charm and individuality. Her pieces have a simplicity and purity making them really unique. The retail outlet in Ashburton is open for the public to browse her latest work. Kate is also open by appointment for personal pieces for weddings, anniversaries, etc. Kate's jewellery is absolutely great if you're looking for that unique gift for your loved one!

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

29

RADIO DEVON 9.00 - 12.00 weekdays

STAR GAZING with

Judi Spiers

Well-known presenter, broadcaster and dyed-in-the-wool Devonian Judi Spiers gives COAST & COUNTRY readers a glimpse into the lives of the great and good.

Lynda La Plante There are book festivals springing up all over Devon and not only do they give a chance to up and coming writers but they bring lots of household and international names to the region. I had a great evening recently in North

Devon at Appledore Book Festival interviewing two writers at the top of their game whose career have taken fascinating paths.

comedienne, her slender black clad legs crossed and uncrossed a la Kenny Everett as she took her seat and launched into tales from her fascinating career. I first

One was Lynda La Plante and from the minute she walked down the aisle in St Maryʼs Church she had the audience in the palm of her hand. A natural born

met Lynda when she was Lynda Marchal the actress some 30 odd years ago and we were both at the Belgrade Theatre Coventry. She was playing Calamity Jane and was not exactly what the director had in mind; other girls in the cast looked and could sing far better.

But her energy brought standing ovations every night. She was a 4 foot nothing tour de force and I remember thinking “this girl will go far”. Little did I think in the direction her career eventually took.

A chorus of ʻSecret Loveʼ and an example of the string of Liverpudlian prostitutes she seems to have played over the years led to stories of writing for television.

First it was the ʻKids from 47Aʼ followed by the series that made her name ʻWidowsʼ about a bunch of women who plan a bank heist. I have seen Lynda when she writes, juggling sometimes three projects.

It can be quite disturbing like watching someone with multi personalities talk to themselves because she ʻdoesʼ everyones voice. She did actually write a

With such an interesting career, Lynda La Plante really knows how to hold an audience.

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SOUTH DEVON

part for herself in ʻWidowsʼ but unwittingly wrote herself out!

After ʻWidowsʼ she became a sought after crime writer with a string of international best sellers

Coast & Country

ʻPrime Suspectʼ bringing her an Edgar Allen Poe Writerʼs Award for her work on the television series. ʻThe Governorʼ (in which she gave yours truly a part)ʼ followed, ʻTrial and Retributionʼ, ʻSupply and Demandʼ and ʻThe Commanderʼ all made by her own television production company.

I first met Lynda when she was Lynda Marchal the actress some 30 odd years ago

She continued to write books too at a phenomenal rate... which is why I always call her the Ernie Wise of the crime world “hereʼs one I wrote earlier.” Her latest book is ʻWrongful Death,ʼ part of the Anna Travis series, where you can see just why she was awarded an Honorary Fellowship with the Forensic Science Society, the fi rst non-scientist to be inducted into the professional body.

She might have begun the evening with a high camp performance but she ended on a deadly serious note analyzing how the Italian police and judiciary handled the murder case of British student Meredith Kercher. She certainly left Appledore with something to think about.

Lynda has of course has had great success with her adaptations on American television, so had lots to talk about later over dinner with my other interviewee that evening Michael Dobbs, author of House of Cards. House of Cards was one of the most successful British television dramas ever starring the late and marvelous Ian Richardson (who lived just outside Exeter) as FU Francis Urquhart. Well, 25 years later the Americans bought the rights and cast Kevin Spacey as FU (Frank Underwood) and it has recently

his latest hero is a millionaire Member of Parliament with a dark and bloody past picked up 3 Emmys. Michael is an Executive Producer on it and loves every minute he spends on

Jeremy Vine

Michael Dobbs

“When she was on her hands and knees in the downstairs loo, with a scrubbing brush!”

He also somewhat surprised all at dinner that night by bursting into a rather fi ne chorus of the Supremes ʻBaby Loveʼ!

Even though he’s the author of one of the most succesful Bristish TV Dramas, turns out Michael Dobbs is a very down to earth guy. Image by Jim Pascoe.

the set and rubbing shoulders with Hollywood royalty. Who would have thought the man they called ʻMrs Thatcherʼs baby -faced hitmanʼ when he was her Chief of Staff would get so excited about meeting Jodie Foster and Mickey Rooney which he did at the Baftas?

The Americans, I would suspect, are also rather lapping up Michael

who is now, to give him his full title, Lord Dobbs ofWylie also known as Baron Dobbs. Although, he told the audience, his children call him Baron Wasteland one of them actually suggesting Baron Loins! A very down to earth man he surprised the audience with his lack of grandeur explaining how he heard about his title in the local

with a plank of wood and had chewing gum placed on his seat by a Robert Mugabe aid. All of these stories are in his book ʻItʼs All News To Meʼ a book, which has taken Jeremy all over the country but as he told me prior to this years visit,

opposite of London, and I love it so much.”

“Appledore was the most fun right by the sea, so friendly and a great line up and they really take care of their authors,” adding, “some book festivals, I won’t name them, have got so big they are almost industrial and Appledore is very intimate.”

He loves Devon, but he certainly does his job well in London.

The television and radio journalist Jeremy Vine knows a thing or two about being shot at. He has also reduced a Prime Minister to despair, been robbed, attacked

Post Office and informed his wife she was a lady,

He returned this year to join Martin Bell and myself as a Patron. But itʼs not just North Devon, Jeremy is a fan of, as he was actually married in Tipton St. John, which is where his wife comes from.

“I go down there whole time” he told me, “because my relatives are still there. Devon is the

Jeremy is, I think, a rare breed in broadcasting. He is able to handle heavyweight interviews as he did on Newsnight and his lunchtime Radio Two show and despite the fact that he admits “I always destroy my brotherʼs jokes when I tell them” (his brother, of course, being the award winning comedian Tim Vine) he can tell a funny story. He demonstrated this on Radio Devon with a salutary tale concerning the new loos on trains where you press a button to open the door and press a button to lock it. Iʼll let him continue.

“Whilst in a seated position I heard this door click and watched in horror as it started to slide slowly open and two people at a table on the other side of the carriage looked over and quickly back again and I had at full stretch to reach the

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

Michael continues to write, his latest hero being a millionaire Member of Parliament with a dark and bloody past from his days spent fighting dirty wars in the British Army, Harry Jones.

Another series of the American House of Cards is currently being filmed and there is talk of Michael getting together with Adam Price the creator of the Danish political drama ʻBorgenʼ Not bad for someone who was once described by a reviewer as,

“A man who in Latin American times would have been shot.”

other wall. I hit the button and door started to close very slowly.

I was standing a minute later thinking how do I get out of this situation without dying of embarrassment? And the only consolation is that when I got out of the loo and started going back to my seat I passed the two women who had seen all this and I heard one of them say to the other: ‘Wasn’t that Jeremy Paxman?’”

As he says in his book “journalists need regular doses of humiliation!

Judi

You can hear Judi’s show on BBC Radio Devon at 9.00 till 12.00 noon on 103.4 MHz FM or on iPlayer at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/ radiodevon

RADIO DEVON 31

A DISAPPEARING WAY OF LIFE

Salmon Fishing on the Exe

Produced in association with Topsham Museum

THE RIVER EXE has been a great source of salmon over the centuries, in fact salmon was once so prolific that a clause was regularly inserted in the indentures of apprentices, that they were not obliged to eat it more often than three times a week.

One of the great tragedies in recent years has been the decline of migratory fish in our river systems, in particular sea trout and the mighty salmon, which has to be one of the most impressive fish ever to grace our rivers.

The river Exe still has seasonal runs of salmon, but the quantity and size of fish is a shadow of it’s former self. Up and down the UK many netting licences are being bought off in the attempt to conserve dwindling stocks and much work is being done to improve habitats within river systems for breeding and juvenile fish stocks.

A major and persistent problems that these migratory fish have is netting at sea, where modern factory ships literally vacuum up massive quantities.

Netting in the Exe Estuary

Licenses for salmon netting

The traditional way that salmon are caught in the estuary is that of Seine netting. Basically a very long and fairly shallow net, controlled top and bottom by ropes running along the whole length. The top rope is suspended by a series of equidistant floats, whilst the bottom rope has equidistant weights, thus allowing the net to be suspended vertically in the water.

Netting is now strictly controlled, and there are only three Seine licences allowed. They’re issued by the Environment Agency to individuals and not boats and cost £380 for the year. It’s a requirement that all fish are tagged and an annual return for the fish caught is sent to the environment agency.

Various ways of laying the net were employed, but generally the net would be thrown out from the boat whilst rowing to enclose a circular area. The net could either be retrieved by hauling back into the boat, or by pulling both ends to the bank.

Seine netting’s a time consuming and laborious process, and the basic premise is that there would be fish lying in wait in the chosen section of estuary, but this would depend on tides and water flow levels in the river.

Lower salmon stocks mean that the whole netting process is even less productive, but of course, the value of wild salmon these days is extremely high.

Bill Newman, Harry Pym, Denzil Pym, and Sam Leach outside The Passage Inn, Topsham

copyright Ken Barrett

The sole remaining purposebuilt Exe salmon fishing boat lying at Topsham Museum

61¼lb salmon caught in 1924 which was said to be the largest salmon ever caught in the Exe estuary

by Richard Voysey (left), Jim ‘Sergeant’ Voysey, his son Jim ‘Knowledge’ Voysey and Alf Tancock copyright Ken Barrett

A Topsham salmon fisherman

Exe fishing boats There is one purpose-built Exe salmon fishing boat that can be seen at Topsham Museum. In the 1920s there were over 20 boats in the estuary that brought in 4,000 salmon annually.

Eisca (Exe) in Celtic meant ‘river full of fish’ The Roman name for Exeter - Isca Dumnoniorum comes from Eisca (river full of fish) and Dumnonii who were the local people inhabiting the region when the Romans invaded.

The fishermen Topsham has many families connected to the salmon fishing on the Exe, names inlcuding Pym, May, Voysey, Trout, Newman as well as many other families who regularly formed part of the crew.

The dangers of eating farmed Salmon

Whether you eat salmon or not, it’s impor tant to know that the farmed salmon available in your local supermarket is the piscine equivalent of batter y chicken in that these fish are caged and fed on pellets. Whether this concerns you or not, it’s impor tant to know that these metho ds bring with them all the disad vanta ges of factor y farming: Farmed salmon: 1) Have up to 30 times the number of sea lice 2) Have upto 7 times the levels of PCBs as wild salmon.

3) Are given chemicals in their food to give them colour.

4) Are fed pellets, some of which can include chicken faeces, corn meal, genetically modified canola oil, soy and other fish containing harmful toxins.

5) Have much less omega 3s due to lack of wild diet.

6) Salmon are raised in small cages to increase growth, but resulting in increased diseases.

7) Are given antibiotics at higher levels than other livestock.

8) Do massive damage to esturine eco systems and consequently to the wild salmon stocks.

D.C.B. Photography © 2013

Tales of a Yokel

Yarns from the inimitable FCR Esgen

GROWING OLD DISGRACEFULLY by FCR Esgen I never really planned on getting old, it just crept up on me unawares. Of course I had read in books what happens as humans make that lonely decent into the great abyss. Bits start to fall off I was told, and the ones that don t need constant attention and oiling. Still there are compensations if you are one of the hapless Grecian 2000 brigade. One of these is that you tend to worry less about the

future; this may be due to the fact that you don t have one, or perhaps you cant remember what it is you were supposed to be worrying about in the first place. Either way its just easier to let events take care of themselves while you pour a second G&T and try to figure out one across in the local rag.

My next door neighbour, who is even more decrepit than I am, spends every

Monday morning working out where he hasn t been with his bus pass. This system worked very well for him until recently when his wife lost the list of places they had already visited.

So they had to start from scratch all over again, as they can only recall the town or village they ve been too when they get there. In an idle moment I worked out that if his wife lost the list every two years they would have enough pubs

to visit for lunch within a twenty mile radius once a week until they both fell off their perch.

Clock and Watch Repair Expert and WRITERS professional You are welcome to repairs to all submit editorial for this types of clocks magazine, and watches.with a view to A publication. wide rage of watches and By email to: clocks also nigel@prestige-media.co.uk available for sale.

Tel. 01395 513383

D. J. Offord

01626 364766 5 Union Street Newton Abbot

Venue:

Rumour 30 HIGH STREET, TOTNES

Date of visit:

The Restaurant

Inspector

Working undercover in South Devon!

Friday lunchtime 4th October 2013

Q Mains: Seared Scallops with cauliflower purée, cauliflower bhajis & curry oil.

Slow Roast Lamb with harrisa in a whole wheat & cumin seed pitta, cucumber yoghurt salad and polenta chips.

Q Pudding: Spiced Pumpkin Tart with Crema Catalana ice cream.

Q Drinks: Sharpham 2011 Estate Collection by the glass.

34

Seared Scallops

Slow Roast Lamb with Harrisa

We hadn’t visited Rumour before, and decided to stop by, whilst shopping.

Peering inside, it was certainly busy enough and worth checking out.

Being so close to the Sharpham Estate, we opted for a couple glasses of the 2011 Estate white to prepare for the food ahead. The wine was clean, refreshing and a bit fruity - actually it was most enjoyable.

We opted to have the scallops starter as a mains, which came accompanied with cauliflower bhajis and curry oil.

SOUTH DEVON

Spiced Pumpkin Tart

This was a lovely combination, the slightly sour and creamy cauliflower sauce/puree alongside the crisply bhajis and scallops, with the gentle warmth of the curry oil all proving very jummy.

texture being much more crisply than your usual common or garden chips.

They were really light and provided a good starchy balance for the rest of the dish which was extremely flavoursome.

Next was the Slow Roast Lamb with Harrisa, which really was an unusual but tasty and satisfying dish. The slow roast lamb appeared slightly shredded and came with a vegetable raita, salad and polenta chips. A lovely gentle cumin and chilli flavour pervaded the whole dish. The polenta chips were something I haven’t had before, the

The spiced pumpkin tart was a real winner, alongside the Crema Catalana flavours (lemon and orange jest, crushed caramel and fennel seed) that came from the syrupy sauce within the ice cream accompaniment.

Coast & Country

We can only conclude that the chef here’s a real alchemist. Top marks!

Eating Out

in South Devon

W

elcome to South Devon Coast & Country's eating out section which we hope you'll give you inspiration, after all, everyone enjoys a meal out - it's a real treat. We're so lucky here in the Southwest with many lovely country pubs and also the chance to enjoy your meal with a sea or river view.

OUTDOORGOURMET Lower Dean, Buckfastleigh, Devon

Specialists in high quality BBQ and outdoor cooking equipment The Old Bakery CafĂŠ and Restaurant

We offer a wide variety of dishes for excellent brunches, leisurely lunches, afternoon tea and wonderful dinner, and our coffee is fabulous.

Open Monday to Saturday from 9am till late.

01548 855777 www.theoldbakerykingsbridge.co.uk

The Old Bakery, Kingsbridge TQ7 1JD

Barbecues, Food Smokers, Garden Ovens, & Accessories 01364 644965 www.outdoorgourmet.co.uk

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

35

The bombing of Exeter in the ‘Baedeker raids’

by John Fisher

A

CRASHED GERMAN BOMBER

buried deep in the earth at the bottom of a garden in Surrey was only fully excavated a few short years ago and provided a direct link to the bombing of Exeter in World War Two, in one of the so-called Baedeker raids.

Amongst the wreckage the excavation team found the remains of its young flight engineer, Frans Huske, 21. The rest of the crew had managed to bail out.

Close to his body they found a small bottle of French perfume, bought for his sweetheart the afternoon before he died perhaps and still with him when he climbed through the cockpit and into the cramped rear gun turret behind the pilot.

The aircraft was a twin-engine bomber called a Dornier 217-E, part of 1 Staffel, Gruppe KG2. This was known as 'Holzhammer' and boasted a distinctive black and blue ‘sledgehammer’ emblem on its fuselage. It had been based just across the Channel from Southampton – its target that night - when it had been shot down by an RAF night fighter. This was March 1943.

St James Chapel, part of the Catherdal, hit by one of the many bombs that fell on Exeter. The stained glass windows of the Cathedral had already been removed in 1940

A coroner’s inquest was held, a full 62 years after his death, and an internment was arranged at Chichester cemetery by the German War Graves Commission, where all such burials have taken place when no living relatives can be found in Germany.

Then something quite remarkable happened. As the graveside service began a very old man arrived by taxi. He was Willi Schludecker, an exLuftwaffe pilot with KG2 bomber group - a veteran of 127 bombing missions and nine crashes - who had accompanied a serving Luftwaffe Officer to the cemetery on this occasion to pay his respects to the fallen.

“We shall go out and bomb every building in Britain marked with three stars in the Baedeker Guide.”

Not only was he the man who had trained the crew of that aircraft, he had also taken part in three of the Baedeker raids over England in 1942.

York, Bath and Exeter.

36

(German propaganda broadcast, 24th April, the 19th day after Exeter was bombed)

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

So how did this so-called Baedeker raid come about and why Exeter?

It took a further two years to reel in the personal story from the 87-year old pilot during subsequent flying visits he made to the UK, for flying was still his one great passion and he still enjoyed taking the controls of a friend’s light aircraft on these occasions.

In 1942, at the height of WW2, the UK and Nazi Germany began a series of tit-for-tat bombing raids against each other's cultural centres. The Luftwaffe used Baedeker tourist guides to single out targets with no military value but great historic and cultural importance, the destruction of which - so a German professor’s theory went - would demoralize the civilian population.

This followed on the heels of Hitler’s decision to intensify bombing of “soft” civilian targets like London - which was beginning to reel under that day and night onslaught.

Against this background it was on 28 March 1942, that RAF Bomber Command was allowed to hit the undefended medieval port of Lübeck on the Baltic coast. Some 234 RAF aircraft dropped 300 tons of explosives and incendiaries, destroying half the old town, killing 320 people and making more than 14,000 homeless.

Similar raids followed and Hitler ordered the Luftwaffe to repay the attacks in kind.

These he dubbed Vergeltungsangriffe or "retaliatory attacks".

First to be bombed was Torquay, then Brixham. Exmouth and its docks were hit in the third week in April 1942. But the first of what were about to be called the ‘Baedeker blitz’ raids against Exeter took place on the night of 23/24 April 1942, when 25 Junker Ju88 fighter-bombers flew up the River Exe before circling the city dropping parachute flairs to illuminate the targets.

Then they released high explosive bombs

One of the pilots responsible: Below - Willi Schludecker, who was a Luftwaffe pilot with KG2 bomber group responsible for the Exeter bombing raids.

An unexploded aerial mine at Culverland Road followed by incendiaries. This attack caused widespread damage and killed 70 people.

Terrible though it was, some believe it was only a reconnaissance mission compared with what was to come.

Willi Schludecker

It was the very next day that Nazi propaganda trumpeted that Exeter was only the beginning. The Luftwaffe, it pronounced, would now work its way through the Baedeker tourist guide.

That night Exeter was hit again and Willi Schludeker was part of this larger force, this time of Dornier 217-E bombers - the Holzhammer Squadron - that brought home the attack.

Normally based at Gilze-Rijen airfield in Holland, situated between Breda and Tilburg, his force of heavy Dorniers from Kampfgeschwader 2 (KG2) had moved down into Normandy in the afternoon where they were refuelled and loaded high explosives and incendiaries.

These ‘bomblets’ had fins but were little bigger than a vacuum flask: weighing only a few kilos each, they were designed to ignite on impact and burn chemically at intensely high temperatures. Falling by the hundreds onto the rooftops of shops, workshops and houses in wartime Exeter they were difficult to reach and caused tremendous amounts of damage.

Willi Schludecker joined the Luftwaffe in 1938

Willi Schludecker’s aircraft carried two 500kg and five 50kg bombs together with clips of these incendiary bombs. Because of its full load and the comparatively short distance it would travel to and from the target the aircraft was only partially fuelled for the round trip.

After scanning the reconnaissance photos that had been taken at first light the four-man crews boarded their aircraft in high spirits.

It was late evening when they crossed the French coast in a wide v-formation, flying at an altitude of little more than 50 metres (150 feet) to avoid being picked up by the radar stations at Plymouth and the cliff top antennae at Sidmouth.

It’s amazing how much of Cathedral Yard is left considering the desperate intent of the Nazi bombers

The sea was choppy and they flew in tight formation and complete radio silence was observed as they flew over the white-topped waves below them. They smiled but they were comforted, as always, by the sight of the two German air/sea rescue launches in position at the half way point and they did not make altitude until they were only for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

Willi Schludecker, holder of two Iron Crosses, died peacefully in hospital in Cologne on 17th June 2010, aged 90.

continued overleaf...

37

Looking northwards from the top of the cathedral. All the new buildings mark the city’s wartime devastation.

Photo: smalljim

a few minutes from the target and the signal was given by Aldis lamp from the leader to open their throttles and climb to 1,500 feet.

Parachute flairs were dropped to illuminate

The right hand wing of the incoming attack, using the cathedral as its point of reference, began to unload its 500kg bombs. Their purpose was to flatten buildings but also to destroy gas pipes and water mains for what was to follow. Then they circled the city to the east to observe their handiwork as the next wave came in.

This was a repeat of the first but now there were fires lighting up the night from warehouses ablaze at Marsh Barton on one side of the city and houses along Paris Street on the other.

The second wave, again lining up the cathedral in their bombsights began to drop the first of the thousands of incendiary bombs that were to fall that night before circling over Dawlish.

Exeter’s fire service had already placed static water tanks at what they hoped would be strategic locations around the city - and they needed them. A contemporary account by Exeter’s senior police officer said:

Exhausted firemen resting before resuming their fight against the flames the targets together with parachute mines – large high explosive cylinders fitted with timing devices which were designed to land softly and detonate on the surface rather than in the ground.

“The raid consisted of a violent attack on the City, with concentration on the shopping centre.

The raid was a mixed one, incendiary bombs, high explosive of large calibre and machine-

The top of Fore Street was flattened, looking towards the Cathedral

38

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

gunning being intermingled. A strong wind was blowing and this undoubtedly had a very considerable effect on the spread of the fires which broke out... the fact remains that a very considerable portion of the city of Exeter is now a mass of ruins.”

The raid lasted for about 90 minutes. Large areas of Fore Street, Sidwell Street and Paris Street were flattened, fires burnt for days afterwards and the orange glow of the city burning could be seen from 30 miles away.

Enemy aircraft had bombed RAF Exeter on the 3, 5, 12 and 14 April with the result that many aircraft were either destroyed or damaged, whilst others had been deployed further afield.

Beaufighter night fighters were scrambled together with the Mark V Spitfires of the all-Polish 317 Squadron but to no avail.

The Dorniers finished off their night’s work by machine-gunning the city, killing firefighters, rescue workers and firewatchers - many of them shop assistants - positioned on the roofs of the shops in the city centre before they turned south, dropped under the radar again and raced back to base through the intense blackness over the Channel, “triumphant and singing marching songs” to each other over the intercom.

The Queen visits the damaged Cathedral

It was said that Exeter was one of the Jewels in England’s Crown in terms of architecutre, particularly from the mediaeval period.

The German raids destroyed much of Exeter.

About 70 people died in the raid, 20 were injured and the Germans returned home without loss.

It was the following day that the Nazi propagandist Baron Gustav Braun von Sturm used the word Baedeker in a broadcast for the first time.

He said: "We shall go out and bomb every building in Britain marked with three stars in the Baedeker Guide."

Spitfires and Beaufighters based at RAF Exeter defended the South West.

(RAF Exeter’s now Exeter International Airport which still has many of the features from WWII)

There was no respite. On 25 April it was Willi Schludecker’s KG2 Group that again led the attack on the fair city of Bath - for two successive nights. The 100-bomber raid that caused nearly 1,300 casualties and damaged 20,000 buildings.

German bombers returned to Exeter again in the early hours of 3 May, killing another 161 and injuring 500. The cathedral was hit again, the St. James’s chapel was destroyed but miraculously the main fabric of the building survived. But in total the bombings destroyed or seriously damaged 4,200 buildings. Again, the attackers got away Scot-free.

The KG2 Group came again in the early hours 4th May, 1942 with 20 bombers from their new base in Brittany, dropping sticks of incendiaries. An hour later there were 19 separate fires raging in the High Street, Sidwell Street and Fore Street.

As firefighters scrambled over rooftops to extinguish the incendiaries they were machine-gunned by Ju88 fighter-bombers, specially assigned for that purpose. Seventy minutes after they arrived the entire force had gone again, leaving an inferno behind them, along with 39 unexploded bombs and aerial mines. But the fires were now all but out of control.

Firefighters and ambulances raced to the scene from Torquay, Taunton and Plymouth.

When they arrived they found streets blocked by falling buildings that in collapsing, ignited buildings opposite whilst the already stiff southwesterly breeze intensified the fires, spreading sparks and burning embers ever further.

The Control Centre, located at the City Library in Castle Street became completely surrounded by fire had to be quickly abandoned and a million books and historic documents turned to ash.

19 times during the Second World War and thirty acres of the city were flattened.

Hundreds of shops, offices, warehouses stores, clubs and pubs were totally destroyed, along with 1,500 houses. A further 2,700 houses were seriously damaged and 16,000 sustained some damage.

But cities, at least, can be rebuilt and 68 years after the peace, that jewel has been re-set.

Our thanks to Barking Creek Film Productions, Surrey (01428 652300) for use of images and material from their forthcoming documentary, The Nine Lives of Willi Schludecker - currently in production.

That raid killed 156 people, men women and children, whole families sometimes, all in the one house, from the baby to the grandparents and 563 more people were injured, many of them seriously.

Later that day German radio reported "Exeter was the jewel of the West... We have destroyed that jewel, and the Luftwaffe will return to finish the job" Devon’s historic capital city was hit by enemy raiders

DORNIER Do 217E-4 bombers over South West England

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39

40

SOUTH DEVON

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directory Y HOME & INTERIORSZ

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directory Y HOME & INTERIORSZ 01626 852050 sales@fosterville.co.uk

jaz interiors

Fosterville Ltd is a well established local company which has been supplying building materials to the Building & Landscaping industry since 1999

Whether you require the usual aggregates like limestone or granite, concrete ballast or drainage stone, or sands for building, plastering or paving, our helpful team at Fosterville will be pleased to assist in getting you the right building materials for your project.

A range of French inspired, vintage style, distressed furniture and gif ts in store

Fosterville Quarry and Recycling Centre is open to the Trade & Public and we can be found in the heart of the Clay Pits over near Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot.

mon-fri 9.30am to 5pm sat 9.30am to 2pm

© 2012 Fosterville Ltd Quarry & Recycled Aggregate • Sand • Cement • Block • Gravel Fosterville Ltd. The Recycling Centre, John Acres Lane, Newton Abbot, Devon. TQ12 3GP

T: 01626 852050

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TA M A R S E C U R I T Y Totnes Tile & Bathroom Studio One of the largest selections of tiles in the South West

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directory Y HOME & INTERIORSZ

Bradburys. Be inspired.

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Tel: 01392 825940 www.bradburysltd.co.uk Bradbury’s, Denbury Court, Matford Park, Exeter EX2 8NB

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43

Janet East is the proprietor at Yellingham Farm, also running a Farmhouse B&B establishment www.yellinghamfarm.co.uk 01404 850272

by Janet East of Yellingham Farm

To be or not to be... a vegetarian?

B

eing a sheep and beef farmer, I am a meat eater and love it. My view is that God made our beautiful creatures to graze the grass of our fabulous highlands and lowlands so that we all can enjoy the stark contrasts of both wild and managed land. Not a view shared by all, particularly one of my most faithful B&B guests.

Denise and Jeff have been coming to stay with us for over 12 years now and absolutely love the farm. The farm would not be here without the B&B, and the B&B would certainly not be so successful without the farm - they are standing proof. Denise is a devout vegetarian and is very proud of it. We have numerous lengthy, heated, but good-humoured, debates on the merits of omnivores versus herbivores! Neither of us ever backs down. Bless her! They visit at least four or five times a year and I always do my best to persuade Denise of the benefits of eating our delicious, extremely well-cared for lamb and beef, but to no avail! So, just before Christmas last year, over breakfast (no proper fry up there - she even refuses to eat bread now in case it’s got lard in it!), I invited her to have a day with me farming to see what really goes on day to day. Knowing how much Denise loves the farm and, particularly, watching me work the dogs, the answer was an overwhelming yes.

“Denise, this is my last ditch attempt to persuade you to make the break and join us…”

“What an earth are you talking about?” She said.

“Becoming a meat eater of course! If I don’t succeed today I will leave you alone for life” She smiled! So, boots on, warm clothing, crook, dog and can of red spray, we were ready for our first job of the day.

The job was to go and draw some lambs, to which a very swift retort came that she was no artist! I laughed - she didn’t! Whilst we walked over the fields with Todd the dog bounding in front of us, I explained what the term “draw” meant - the selection of fit lambs for the abattoir. Denise pulled a face of sheer disgust, but allowed me to explain the three things we are looking for in a “fit” lamb. Firstly, weight - I like my lambs to be approximately 40kgs live weight. That means they will kill out at about 50% (18 - 20kg deadweight). Secondly, we have to get the “fat class” right, in other words, how much fat the 44

lamb is carrying - the supermarkets want it really lean. Finally, the “conformation” - a good shape, particularly a good rear end. The remark of “How ridiculous, what a load of nonsense” and a few other unrepeatable expletives followed. I was looking forward to the task ahead. The ice was broken as Todd was sent off to collect the sheep. Denise smiled in awe of my dog, who was magical to watch, as he gathered some 30 lambs and slowly, but with determination, brought them to the handling pen where we were standing. Penning them swift ly and closing the gate, they were ready for us to begin.

birds put on a superb show, their wattle going bright red and the feathers displayed, with every colour imaginable shining in the sun (trying to attract the ever-elusive female). The chat about fattening them was short, to say the least!

On our way back from our shopping expedition, I explained that I wanted to stop off at my neighbour who produces poultry for Christmas and have a quick chat. No problems she said - there would have been had I told her what the chat involved.

I asked Denise to wind down the window as we stopped outside my neighbour’s farm.

“Morning Brian… wanted to ask your advice on Christmas dinner.”

Laughing he said “You’re the cooks - not me!”

“We don’t want turkey or goose and certainly not pheasant or duck as we’re inundated with them from the boys’ weekend shooting.” More tut-tuts and groans from Denise, but, still in good humour, she suggested to Brian that Nut Roast is always an option. He smiled, not quite understanding the joke.

“Denise, you have a very important job. I will feel each one for fat and conformation and then we will weigh them. You are on the scales. Any lamb between 38 - 42 kilos, spray a red mark between its shoulders.”

“You are surely joking... I am the one who ultimately determines its fate? Let me remind you that I am a vegetarian who is on the point of becoming vegan!”

The job was completed with a lot of moaning.

I heard Denise at one point talking to the lambs telling them to breathe in, be under 38kgs and they would live to see another day. Whatever next! Fifteen lambs ready for the abattoir. A good hour’s work (normally only takes me half an hour on my own!).

We ended on a good note as Todd carefully drove them out of the pen back down the field.

Denise was once more smiling. Walking back home, I said our next job was a quick trip to Mole Valley Farmers to collect some Turkey fi nisher - another lengthy discussion ensued as I explained how we fatten our free-range Bronze turkeys for Christmas. One of Denise’s pleasures at the farm in December is watching the beautiful, colourful turkeys roaming the farmyard and fields, particularly when the cock SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

Finally, after much banter he asked “Have you ever tried Woodcock or Snipe? Lovely little birds. You often see them in the lane flying really low.” The smile was instantly wiped off Denise’s face as she started to understand where this conversation was going - I forgot to mention she is a very knowledgeable and keen ornithologist.

“Did you know maid, that Snipe and Woodcock are one of the few birds that you cook with the innards in place, and by the way, don’t forget to use their very long beaks to your advantage… pluck them, bend the neck around and shove the long beak up…”

He never got chance to fi nish, as the passenger door flew open and Denise walked the rest of the way home.

PS: I’ve kept my promise and left Denise to be a proud vegetarian - excuse the pun, but she is a “game old bird”.

Illustrations by Jim Stanes ©

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45

Save

our Heritage One of the last surviving Brixham sailing trawlers is to make a dramatic and emotional return to her home town - Claire McCombe They say you have to be mad to do

away; the bad news was a double

done, given determination. (It is

it - any old wooden vessel, especially

whammy, for Torbay Lass was about

significant that no other class of vessel

one of the 200 elite survivors in

to lose her home: redevelopment at

is represented in the National Historic

the National Historic Fleet, is a

Tilbury Dock dictated that after years

Fleet by all the surviving examples

responsibility taken on at your peril in

of generosity, the authorities could

which shows the importance these

these austere times: think ‘preserving

no longer offer her free mooring and

iconic craft are given by those who

a crumbling grade one listed building’

she had to be shifted; failing that, she

dictate Heritage rankings.)

and you’ll get the financial picture!

would have been scrapped, broken

Yet the Torbay community at large,

up into random chunks of timber and

The Trinity Sailing Foundation, the

headed by Brixham’s Trinity Sailing

loaded into skips for disposal.

charity which already owns three of

Foundation, has taken up just such a task and launched an urgent appeal.

For “ Torbay Lass ”, one of only six remaining from the once proud fleet of hundreds of Brixham sailing trawlers, the situation had suddenly become

the Brixham fleet, Leader, Provident

'Part of the nation's National Historic Fleet, Torbay Lass has had her fair share of adventures'

100% critical. Recently uncovered

and Golden Vanity, stepped into the breach ready to take a leading role in the campaign to save her. People everywhere were asking what can we do, how can we help bring Torbay

Lass back from the brink? Councils, organisations, and individuals across

Alfred Lovis - A brave owner of the Brixham smack

major structural decay in her timbers

When the news broke there was

Torbay backed Trinity’s successful

final decision in June. Thanks to Trinity

meant a massive restoration job was

widespread consternation. She is

initial Heritage Lottery Funding

the first battle has been won although

urgently needed but the costs were

one of the last of this legendary class

application which has allowed a

the main one is yet to come.

so great that only Heritage Lottery

of working boat; The other 5 surviving

stay of execution. Limited funds are

Funding, plus an extra £370,000 yet

Brixham smacks have already been

now provided to repair the vessel

So how is she now? A recent survey

to be raised, could set this wonderful

conserved and are sailing out of

sufficiently for her to return to Brixham

showed that a past collision with the

old vessel to rights. The good news

Brixham, loved by community and

under her own power after which a

harbour wall has damaged her bow,

was that restoration is possible at this

visitors alike; they are largely self-

second more detailed application will

but not beyond repair. Although the

point, as long as action is taken straight

funding, which shows what can be

be submitted in February, pending a

starboard frames and double skin are

46

SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

in fair condition, and her keel and

by Trevose Head but her real chapter

floors appear to be sound, the port

of accidents began when they were

side is very poor and needs a complete

off Pendeen. First a rope wound itself

rebuild - frames, internal and external

around the propeller and shortly after

planking, beam shelf, lodging and

that the mainsail burst. Then the jib

hanging knees, stanchions and

and a staysail were carried away and

bulwarks - in addition the bow

another jib lasted only ten minutes

and stern sections of the starboard

before it was lost, taking part of the

side, the transom, the whole of the

bowsprit with it. Now they could only

deck and the entire rig all need to

run before the wind, driving just clear

be replaced. There is much more

of the reef at the ‘Longships’ after

on this daunting list and yet, with

which, with a little bit of spare sail,

Lottery funding, it is a realistic task

they were blown to about 5 miles east

for which Brixham is now committed

of the Wolf Rock. The crew were flying

and organised, and has the experience

a flag of distress in the remaining

skills and knowledge to undertake.

rigging and sending up rockets and

haul the collier’s hawser onto their

young people with social, economic

lighting flares until they ran out. They

deck and start the dangerous tow

and health problems, the very

Torbay Lass is famous among the

even burned a mattress in desperation

to safety. With only sails and in the

market which Trinity Sailing serves

Brixham smacks. Launched in 1923

but to no avail, and as night set in

teeth of the gale the little trawler set

so successfully today. She was well-

from the great Devon shipyard,

with blinding snow they were being

out to bring the stricken schooner to

maintained until the Nineties when

Jackmans, year on year in the Brixham

blown and beaten about with heavy

port despite the wind being from the

things began to go downhill both in

Trawler Race she was a real contender

north. It was, they said, “deadbeat into

funding and essential maintenance.

with her brave skipper Alfred Lovis

Mounts Bay”, a most difficult task in

Then in 2010 she sank softly one night

those conditions, but they reached

into the murk and mud of Tilbury Dock

right across the mouth of the Bay

when an automatic bilge pump failed

nearly to the Lizard, then held in

and there was no-one aboard. She

under Mullion making their way into

was raised but time and accidents

at the helm. (He was awarded the DSC for his gallantry at Dunkirk; there were so many thousands of heroes

'She was stuck at Tilbury, in effect on death row...'

risking and saving lives, his courage

She is loved in the local community and is hoped to be restored in the harour area in Brixham

must have been truly exceptional for

seas breaking right over their stricken

Newlyn through squalls and showers

were taking their toll and her owners

him to be mentioned in dispatches).

vessel. By dawn it seemed doubtful

after an exhausting twelve hours tow.

were increasingly unable to keep

In the annual newspaper reports of

that they could remain afloat, and far

This brilliant piece of seamanship had

up with the vital maintenance she

the race Torbay Lass gives as good

more likely that the worst fears of the

the whole south coast buzzing while

needed.

as she gets and is always there or

Appledore families be realised, with

the Reverend Muller was at last able

thereabouts, until finally in 1936 she

Welcome’s crew joining thousands of

to telephone the weary families to

She was stuck at Tilbury, in effect on

wins her still-remembered victory in

death row, essentially unseaworthy

the King George Vth Cup. A scrap

although confirmed as strong enough

of grainy news footage has been

be escorted back to Brixham, given

preserved which shows her crossing

fair weather. In her home port are

the line in all her glory.

the skills and determination which will set her to rights. You can help

She has yet another claim to fame and

save this beautiful old boat by sending

it is a story of skill, seamanship and

a supportive e mail to torbaylass@

bravery far beyond the call of duty. In

gmail.com; (numbers of letters are

late May 1935 in the South West there

an important part of the application

was a ferocious blizzard followed by

- tell your friends). Everyone can pull

storms (freak weather was happening

together for this one, to save the last

even then!). Families in Appledore in

of the Brixham fishing smacks. If a

particular were desperately worried,

community speaks with one voice it

and being comforted by the local

can only help this vital second stage

vicar, because a German steamer had

of the Heritage Lottery application.

radioed in to report having passed the fully-laden three-masted collier

Welcome in bad condition, giving no

Built in 1923, this piece of heritage is slowly gaining a new lease of life

When she is rescued come to the Brixham Heritage Regatta in a year

answer to signals; Welcome’s Captain,

brave seafarers who had perished in

reassure them that their menfolk were

or so and watch her glide across

William Cox, an Appledore man, had

storms in that area over the centuries.

safe. Torbay Lass entered the annals of

the water in a bay full of red sails

fame for this, the last recorded British

contesting the revived King George

salvage tow under sail.

V Cup, you can feel proud that with

set sail the previous Monday with his son as Mate, plus a young lad from

Enter Torbay Lass with her stout

nearby Bideford on his first voyage

owner-skipper, Alfred Lovis. They

and “an Irishman”: everyone feared

had been hove to between the

She has had many subsequent

21st century methods to preserve

the very worst for them, given the

Wolf and the Isles of Scilly all night,

adventures although not with Captain

something beautiful from the past,

force of the storm.

waiting for the storm to blow itself

Lovis. The smack was sold, converted

for your children and their children’s

out. Fearlessly the fishing smack came

into a yacht and then for 50 years she

children, and on into the future.

The worries were fully justified:

alongside and somehow managed

was used firstly by the Sea Cadets,

Claire McComb

Welcome had been racing the gales

to get a line aboard so they could

and then later for sail training for

your supportive e-mail you have used

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

47

f

d

Festive Events in South Devon music, Stoke Damerel Church, Plymouth, 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS JAZZ CLUB 06 Dec - Get in to the spirit of Christmas with toe-tapping jazz and a festive dinner, Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, 7.00pm.

CAROLS & XMAS MUSIC - ST PETERS, PLYMOUTH 07 Dec - At Wyndham Square, Plymouth starting 7.30pm, Plymouth Phoenix Chorale, Plymouth, 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS FAIR 07 Dec - Christmas Fair, Holne Village Hall Committee, Holne, 2.00pm.

   BARBICAN THANKSGIVING & CHRISTMAS WEEKEND Until 01 Dec - Thanksgiving celebrations & Christmas festive family fun, Barbican Waterfront, Plymouth.

SANTA'S GROTTO Until 24 Dec - Award winning charity fundraiser, Santa's Grotto in Fleet Walk, Rotary Club of Babbacombe/St Marychurch, Torquay.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR Until 01 Dec - Buy all your festive shopping in one go at the annual Christmas Shopping Fayre, Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 9.30am.

CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS Until 05 Jan - Broad range of items & materials, showcasing over 60 contemporary craft makers, Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Bovey Tracey, 10.00am.

EXETER CHRISTMAS MARKET Until 19 Dec - This wonderful event is back for a 2nd year, Exeter Christmas Market, Exeter.

CHRISTMAS ELF TRAIL! Until 20 Dec - Kids Christmas Outdoor Trail & activities, £2.50 per child, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Paignton, 10.00am.

NATIVITY PLAYS (BOOKING ESSENTIAL) 01 Dec to 24 Dec - Join the animals for Nativity Plays and visit Santa and his reindeer, Pennywell Farm & Wildlife Centre, Buckfastleigh.

TOTNES CHRISTMAS MARKET 03 Dec - Enjoy great craft stalls, local food and maybe a drop of mulled wine, Totnes Christmas Markets, Totnes, 3.30pm.

CAROL SERVICE AT THE DONKEY SANCTUARY 04 Dec - Children's nativity. Evening of carols, warm mince pies & mulled wine, The Donkey Sanctuary Ivybridge, 6.30pm.

CHRISTMAS LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 04 Dec - The independent shops on Plymouth's Historic Barbican are open until 8pm, 45 Southside Gallery, Plymouth, 10.00am.

FESTIVE THURSDAYS 05 Dec - An evening of Christmas magic, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 4.00pm.

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 05 Dec - University of Plymouth Choral Society, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth, 8.00pm.

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 05 Dec to 19 Dec - Late Night Shopping, Chudleigh, Thursdays in December, Chudleigh Business Guild, Chudleigh, 5.00pm.

A MISCELLANY OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC 05 Dec - This is a seasonal concert with a wide spectrum of Christmas

48

SOUTH DEVON

SANTA BY STEAM (BOOKING ESSENTIAL) 08 Dec - Santa will be on board his special grotto train. Mince pies & mulled wine also, South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh.

CAROLS FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS 08 Dec - Carols sung under the flower garland, South West Chamber Choir, Plymouth, 2.00pm.

SANTA'S CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE 08 Dec - Join two of Santa's elves as they take good boys and girls to meet Santa, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 12.00am.

KINGSBRIDGE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS 07 Dec - Kingsbridge celebrates Christmas, Rotary Club of Kingsbridge, 9.00am.

MAKE A WIRE SCULPTURE FOR CHRISTMAS 08 Dec - A Christmas art workshop - make your own 'wireball' sculpture for the garden, Helwell Studio, Kenton, 11.00am.

CHRISTMAS EQUINE FAIR 07 Dec to 08 Dec - South West Equine Fair. Check website in case of bad weather, Westpoint Arena, Exeter, 9.00am.

FATHER CHRISTMAS VISITS COLETON 08 Dec to 15 Dec - Visit Father Christmas in his grotto at Coleton Fishacre, Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, 2.00pm.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION DAY 07 Dec - Carols, mulled wine, shortbreads, drink/food tastings, gifts, decorations etc, Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Bovey Tracey, 10.00am.

CHRISTMAS DINNER 09 Dec - Annual Christmas Dinner, contact club for details, Torbay Old Wheels Car Club, Newton Abbot.

MONSTER SATURDAY: A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS 07 Dec - Special activities. Find out how Victorians celebrated, make decorations/craft, Torquay Museum, Torquay, 11.00am.

CHRISTMAS FAIR AT THE DONKEY SANCTUARY 07 Dec - Donkey carriage rides to Santa's grotto. Games, music, raffle & refreshments, The Donkey Sanctuary Ivybridge, 10.00am.

SHALDON SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT 07 Dec - Christmas concert, in which the main work will be Faure's Requiem, Shaldon Singers, Shaldon, 7.00pm.

SANTA BY STEAM (BOOKING ESSENTIAL) 07 Dec - Santa will be on board his special grotto train. Mince pies & mulled wine also, South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh.

CAROLS BY BRIXHAM TOWN BAND 07 Dec - Saturday carols with Brixham Town Band, Brixham Town Band, Paignton, 10.30am.

MISTLETOE BALL 07 Dec - Annual black tie dinner and dance, The Grand Hotel, Torquay.

COCKTAILS, CHAOS AND CANAPES 07 Dec - A murder mystery with a festive twist in the home of 1920s elegance, Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, 7.00pm.

ADVENT CAROL CONCERT 07 Dec - Advent Carol Concert by West Devon Chorale, Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, 7.15pm.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 08 Dec - Christmas at Cockington Court on Sunday 8th, Cockington Court, Cockington.

Coast & Country



TOTNES CHRISTMAS MARKET 10 Dec - Enjoy great craft stalls, local food and maybe a drop of mulled wine, Totnes Christmas Markets, Totnes, 3.30pm.

TORBAY CIVIC CAROL CONCERT 10 Dec - Torbay Civic Carol Conbcert, Torbay Brass Band, Torquay, 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT STOVER COUNTRY PARK 10 Dec - Join the Newton Abbot Salvation Army band to sing Carols around the bonfire, Stover Country Park, Newton Abbot, 7.00pm.

CHRISTMAS CALLIGRAPHY & ILLUMINATION WORKSHOP 10 Dec - Create a unique Christmas greeting, Castle Drogo, Drewsteignton, 10.30am.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 10 Dec to 11 Dec - Pantomime - a fun filled show for the whole family (main auditorium), Barnfield Theatre, Exeter.

CHRISTMAS LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 11 Dec - The independent shops on Plymouth's Historic Barbican are open until 8pm, Plymouth, 10.00am.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT 11 Dec - Christmas Concert, Alvington Singers, Thurlestone, 7.30pm.

SERVICE IN CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS 13 Dec - Seasonal Christmas Service, Buckfast Abbey, Buckfast Abbey, 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT AT HIGH CROSS HOUSE 13 Dec - Enjoy an evening of festive fun at High Cross House, High Cross House, Totnes, 6.30pm.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT 13 Dec - Christmas Concert, Alvington Singers, Salcombe, 7.30pm.

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JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 13 Dec to 15 Dec - Great fun for all the family, Princess Theatre, Torquay.

FAMILY PANTOMIME: ROBIN HOOD 20 Dec to 25 Jan - Packed full of action, adventure, and an abundance of comedy as well as heroes, Theatre Royal Plymouth.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CATHEDRAL CHOIR 14 Dec - Exeter Cathedral's professional choir returns for its popular seasonal concert, Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, 7.30pm.

ROYAL MARINES BAND CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR 21 Dec - Plymouth is proud to welcome back the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, Plymouth Pavilions, Plymouth, 7.30pm.

SANTA'S CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE 14 Dec - Join two of Santa's elves as they take good boys and girls to meet Santa, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 12.00am.

CAROLS IN THE COURTYARD 21 Dec - Join Saltram choir for a good old-fashioned festive sing along. Take a torch, Saltram House, Plymouth, 6.30pm.

CAROLS BY BRIXHAM TOWN BAND 14 Dec - Carols by the Brixham Town Band, Brixham Town Band, Paignton, 10.30am.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT BY BRIXHAM TOWN BAND 14 Dec - Christmas Concert by Brixham Town Band, Brixham Town Band, Paignton, 7.30pm.

TUDOR CHRISTMAS AT ST NICHOLAS PRIORY 14 Dec - Celebrate a traditional Christmas, making traditional decorations etc, St Nicholas Priory, Exeter.

FESTIVAL CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE 14 Dec - Saturday evening Christmas carol service, Brixham Orpheus Male Voice Choir, Paignton, 7.30pm.

DEAR FATHER CHRISTMAS...

14 Dec to 15 Dec - Write a special letter to Father Christmas & then look for him in the garden, Castle Drogo, Drewsteignton, 11.00am.

SANTA BY STEAM (BOOKING ESSENTIAL) 14 Dec to 15 Dec - Santa will be on board his special grotto train. Mince pies & mulled wine also, South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh.

SANTA IN THE CAVES 14 Dec to 15 Dec - A truly wonderful experience, putting the magic & wonder back into Christmas, Kents Cavern, Torquay.

WINTER WONDERLAND 14 Dec to 05 Jan - Winter Wonderland is back, Babbacombe Model Village, Babbacombe.

CINDERELLA 14 Dec to 05 Jan - Magic land, where Cinderella must find true love with her Prince Charming, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT 21 Dec - Brixham Town Band Christmas concert at the cricket club, Brixham Town Band, Brixham, 8.00pm.

Blood Brothers, Princess Theatre, Torquay

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN 14 Dec - Annual Sell out Concert, Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, Plympton, 7.30pm.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 17 to 24 Dec & 02 to 03 Jan - Great fun for all the family, Princess Theatre, Torquay.

CHRISTMAS MARKET 15 Dec - Sunday Christmas market, Totnes Good Food Sunday Market, Totnes.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CATHEDRAL CHOIR 18 Dec - Exeter Cathedral's professional choir returns for its popular seasonal concert, Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE 15 Dec - Christmas carol service on behalf of RNLI, St Michael's Church, Teignmouth, 4.00pm.

EXETER CHILDREN'S ORCHESTRA 15 Dec - Get the seasonal spirit -orchestra returns with their annual Christmas concert, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter.

CHRISTMAS PARTY 15 Dec - Christmas party with Nutty Noah. For more details, see website, Britannia Royal Naval College Museum and Tour, Plymouth, 3.30pm.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP 15 Dec - Decorate your own edible Gingerbread House for Christmas - family event, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Paignton, 10.30am.

CHRISTMAS PARTY 15 Dec - Christmas party with the Pennyroyal Jazz Band, Plymouth Jazz Club, Plymouth, 7.30pm.

WINTER GARDEN (WITH ADDED SPARKLE) EXHIBITION 16 Dec to 23 Dec - A wonderfully artistic Winter Garden with twinkle.., Incidental Imagery, Totnes, 11.00am.

TOTNES CHRISTMAS MARKET 17 Dec - Enjoy great craft stalls, local food and maybe a drop of mulled wine, Totnes Christmas Markets, Totnes, 3.30pm.

MANATON VILLAGE MARKET 17 Dec - Christmas market. Best local goods. Contact Christina 01647 221302, Manaton Parish Council, Manaton, 10.30am.

QUAY HARMONY CHRISTMAS CONCERT 17 Dec - Quay Harmony Christmas Concert with Special Guests, Lupton House, Churston Ferrers, 7.30pm.

NEWTON ABBOT ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS CONCERT 18 Dec - Now starring very special guests, The Military Wives!, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 7.00pm.

SHOPPERS CAROLS 21 Dec - Carols for shoppers, Brixham Town Band, Paignton.

GALA CHRISTMAS CONCERT 21 Dec - Ten Tors Orchestra and Choir, Peninsula Arts, Tavistock, 6.00pm.

SLEEPING BEAUTY, PANTOMIME 21 Dec to 23 Dec - Fun filled family pantomime, Palace Theatre Paignton, Paignton.

SANTA IN THE CAVES 21 Dec to 24 Dec - A truly wonderful experience, putting the magic & wonder back into Christmas, Kents Cavern, Torquay.

SPECIAL SANTA SUNDAY MARKET 22 Dec - Sunday special Santa market day, Totnes Good Food Sunday Market, Totnes.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT 18 Dec - Concert of traditional and contemporary settings of carols, Alvington Singers, Kingsbridge, 7.30pm.

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH AT CHURSTON COURT 25 Dec - Christmas Day Lunch at the Churston Court, Churston Court, Churston Ferrers, 11.00am.

SANTA BY STEAM (BOOKING ESSENTIAL) 18 Dec to 23 Dec - Santa will be on board his special grotto train. Mince pies & mulled wine also, South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh.

SLEEPING BEAUTY, PANTOMIME 26 Dec to 30 Dec - Fun filled family pantomime, Palace Theatre Paignton.

CHRIATMAS PANTO - ROBIN HOOD 19 Dec - For immediate families of deployed MCM1 personnel in the Plymouth Area see web, Britannia Royal Naval College Museum and Tour, Plymouth, 2.30pm.

CINDERELLA 19 Dec to 20 Dec - Family pantomime written by Mike Bennett will delight audiences, The Little Theatre, Torquay.

HANNAHS PANTO AND FRIDAY NIGHT OUT CHRISTMAS 20 Dec - It's panto time at Hannahs, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 7.00pm.

CHRISTMAS SALE OF POULTRY 20 Dec - Poultry Sale, Newton Abbot Farmers Market, Newton Abbot, 4.00pm.

DICK WHITTINGTON 20 Dec to 04 Jan - Sensational songs, dazzling dance routines and a live band. Purr-fect treat, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter.

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 26 Dec to 31 Dec - Great fun for all the family, Princess Theatre, Torquay.

CHRISTMAS AT GREENWAY 27 Dec to 31 Dec - Greenway is throwing open open its doors between Christmas and New Year, Greenway National Trust, Galmpton, 11.00am.

CHRISTMAS AT COLETON FISHACRE 27 Dec to 31 Dec - Step back in time to the 1920s this Christmas at Coleton Fishacre, Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, 11.00am.

SLEEPING BEAUTY, PANTOMIME 01 Jan to 04 Jan - Fun filled family pantomime, Palace Theatre Paignton, Paignton.

For more information, visit South Devon Hub or just Google 'What's On South Devon'

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Christmas Shopping

AGARIC, Ashburton - Open until 5.30pm Christmas Eve. Their Kitchen Shop is a wonderful cornucopia of wares, so whether for a present or in preparation for Christmas, it's a great place to visit.

01364 653560 www.agaricrestaurant.co.uk/shop/

If you're looking for a relaxed shopping experience, where you can find really unique products for present buying, Ashburton has it all, with brilliant independent shops that stock exclusive ranges.

See the Ashburton feature in the August 13 digital magazine here: www.prestige-media.co.uk/magazines.htm

on to ed e ur p at ca try fe s Es un As C1ʼ Co e BB th

Scallops Lobster Crab KippersthePollack fish deli Coley

Cod Whiting Ashburton

Fish Fantastic fish, responsibly sourced, featured in the Marine Conservation Magazine

 FESTIVE EVENTS IN ASHBURTON  INCON CHRISTMAS CONCERT 7 Dec - At St Lawrence Chapel, Ashburton 7pm. Tickets from the Information Centre and Jane Slaughter 01364 652933.

LLP WALK & FESTIVE WREATH MAKING 12 Dec - Walk around our LLP field to collect materials for festive wreath making, Barn Owl Trust, Ashburton, 2.00pm.

CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PARTY 15 Dec - For ages 11 and under. £4 to include food and a

From our kitchen Award winning fish dishes to take home, delicious pates, fish cakes, bouillabaisse, Thai fish curry and more...

a tribute to style

small present, Ashburton Royal British Legion, Ashburton, 3.00pm.

MAYOR'S CIVIC SERVICE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC 15 Dec - At St Andrew's Church, 3pm.

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 17 Dec - Late night shopping evening around Ashburton,Town Council, Ashburton, 5.00pm.

01364 653322

From the deli counter Outstanding olives, olive oils and tapas From the cook shop A range of cookware from lobster pickers to contemporary pottery Local and organic wine

17 North Street, Ashburton, TQ13 7QH Tel: 01364 653322 Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm info@beaushoes.co.uk www.beaushoes.co.uk

www.thefishdeli.co.uk

7 East St, Ashburton, Devon TQ13 7AD T: 01364 654833

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SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

in Ashburton

Left - An exquisite bespoke ring

by Kate Higham Jewellery.

See more of her lovely creations in the Fashion section of this magazine and advert below.

ry

& Coun t ast Food Retailer Award 2013

Co

BATHE at ARTISANS and ARTISTS stock an extensive range of high quality perfumes, toiletries and home fragrances. Brands stocked include Ortigia, Neom, Dr Vranjes, etc.

01364 653276 www.bathetheworld.com

EXC k E E LL E N C

Above - The renowned Fish Deli is a great place to visit, (if just for the colour therapy from the riot of colours that confront you as you walk inside!)

See advert below far left. 01364 654833 www.thefishdeli.co.uk

Everything you need for Christmas...and the New Year!

ORDER YOUR HAMS, TURKEYS & HAMPERS NOW Christmas orders now being taken. Christmas Hampers, off-the-peg and bespoke. Choose for yourself from our wonderful range of local, award winning produce, including organic vegetables, Fairtrade, wholefoods, groceries, bread, homebaking, dairy, fish, poultry and meats. Gifts galore made by local makers. Hot drinks and freshly cooked BBQ lunches most days. Call in today and take a look.

Special Christmas Late Night Opening Tuesday 17 December

Now open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am - 5.00pm TUCKERS COUNTRY STORE, ASHBURTON TQ13 7DG FREE PARKING RIGHT OUTSIDE THE DOOR for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

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f

d

Christmas Shopping at Dartmouth



Dartmouth welcomes you..

If you wish to savour the festive season, Dartmouth has lots to enjoy for both adults and children. Also, Candlelit Dartmouth is a great festive extravaganza definitely not to be missed.

GLASS!!

 DARTMOUTH FESTIVE EVENTS  CANDELIT ARIAS - LITTLE OPERA COMPANY 06 Dec to 07 Dec - Candelit Arias Little Opera Company, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 7.30pm.

DARTMOUTH FATSTOCK SHOW & MARKET 10 Dec - Farmers from all around bring their prime stock to Dartmouth Fatstock Show & Market, Dartmouth.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE LIVE - THE NUTCRACKER 12 Dec - Royal Opera House Live The Nutcracker, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 7.15pm.

3 Foss Street 01803 833383 Dartmouth ian@dartmouthglass.com TQ6 9DW www.dartmouthglass.com www.facebook.com/PlymouthAndDartmouthGlass

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SOUTH DEVON

CHRISTMAS CONCERT 14 Dec - Britten: A Ceremony of Carols and choruses from Handel's Messiah, Britannia Choral Society, Dartmouth, 7.30pm.

ROTARY CAROL SERVICE 16 Dec - Annual carol service at St Coast & Country

Saviour's Church, Rotary Club of Dartmouth.

ROTARY CHRISTMAS LUNCH 19 Dec - Annual rotary Christmas lunch, Rotary Club of Dartmouth, 1.00pm.

DARTMOUTH ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY CHRISTMAS CONCER 17 Dec - Dartmouth Orchestral Society Christmas Concert, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 7.30pm.

DARTMOUTH PLAYERS PANTOMIME PUSS IN BOOTS 28 Dec to 31 Dec - Dartmouth Players - Puss in Boots Pantomime, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 2.30pm.

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE CORIOLANUS 30 Jan - National Theatre Live - Coriolanus, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 7.00pm.



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 

6 & 7 DEC CANDLELIT DARTMOUTH Lights! Candles! Christmas Action!

Who said there are only 12 days of Christmas?

We reckon the festive spirit actually lights up when Candlelit Dartmouth’s Festive Weekend arrives in town on December 6 & 7, with its unique mix of Christmas markets, candlelit processions, Santa’s spectacular Boat Float ‘splashdown’ and bags of seasonal cheer.

Dec 6 - Starts at 4pm with the Christmas Market. 6pm sees Santa’s water-borne arrival.

7 Dec, with more market stalls, music and entertainment all day from 10am until 7pm. The Flavel is where you’ll find Santa in his Grotto, along with seasonal workshops for adults and children alike.

Meanwhile, back at The Bandstand, there’s a Snow Queen & Jack Frost fancy dress competition at 11am, while the ever-popular ‘Best Dressed Christmas Dog” competition returns at 2pm along with an appearance by festive donkeys, before the weekend finale of the traditional lantern procession sets off from the Old Market at 5.30pm. Hundreds of willow and tissue lanterns, made by local school children and adults in specially organised workshops, create a truly amazing spectacle as they parade through our historic streets, bringing a truly magical light to a truly magical town. But that’s not all because, around 6.00pm, the lantern procession arrives in Royal Avenue Gardens, signalling the final hour of Candlelit Dartmouth and creating a real party atmosphere with some great, live music and maybe even your first Candlelit boogie of Christmas 2013. www.candlelitdartmouth.co.uk

Gifts for Gentlemen 8 Lower Street Dartmouth Devon TQ6 9AJ Tel/ Fax: 01803 833143

   

'The Jewel of the South Hams' With the River Dart running alongside this scenic town and a wealth of quaint and quirky streets, Dartmouth makes a really interesting place to visit, particularly for shopping with its plethora of individual and unique shops clustered around the centre.

From 4pm on 6th December and running until the 7th December, one of Dartmouth's many festivals will be brightening up the town. Candlelit Dartmouth is all about the mulled wine, candlelit processions, Santa (of course), music, entertainers and the local stalls full of Christmas Gifts and festive eats, which can all be found in their extensive Christmas Market. Running along with the festival, local businesses are opening their doors for late night shopping to give that warm festive and cheer-filled experience.

If you have some extra time on your trip you can wander around the fascinating fortress that has stood guard over the river mouth for over 600 years. Dartmouth Castle is closed for the Christmas holiday and New Year's day, but is open during weekends until 31st March 2014.

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

53

Kingsof of the Highway Kings the Highway There was a time when horse-drawn wagons reigned supreme!

Wain: From the Old English waen, waegn related to Old Norse, vagn.

Left - Millers wagon built at the renowned Milford & Son, Thorverton, Devon - circa 1865, Fred tells me that they were the Mercedes Benz of the day.

We visit the Bicton Park Botanical Gardens museum to marvel at examples of the wainwrights' craft

T

here can be no scene more evocative of rural bliss than Constable's painting 'The Hay Wain'. But, there's no doubt that for many agricultural workers, life would have been an extremely hard drudge, punctuated by the changes and trials brought with each new season.

goods on a local basis, and that was by use of the horse drawn wagon.

Obviously the advent of the train facilitated cross county freighting, but locally, horse drawn wagons were still the only option, so you can imagine they were an extremely important part of landscape and economy.

Prior to the internal combustion engine, there was certainly only one way to transport crops, provision and

Wagon building technology required light weight, strength and durability, which over the centuries had time

54

SOUTH DEVON

to develop so that the manufacture became exacting and extremely skilful. The main material used for construction was seasoned timber, with the addition of ironwork in various instances, although this was a costly addition. Timber has its limitation, particularly when it comes to joining all the components together. Consequently jointing techniques were critical and the general framework was intricate

Coast & Country

and laborious to produce to the high standard required. There were no means to productionise in terms of machinery to speed manufacture, it was purely down to the skills of the wainwright.

Whilst visiting Bicton Park's Museum, I met Fred Lister, the resident curator.

He's a mine of information and told me there was a large variation between wagon design from county

Museum Curator - Fred Lister

Affectionately know as "Grandad" by regular visitors, Fred's a mine of information and can give you interesting background information on the artefacts within the museum's collection. He's been instrumental in helping to save and preserve many of the pieces on display which are of great historical interest and a real delight to see in this most interesting Museum collection.

Above - Wagon used originally on the Rolle Estate, a flat deck with high lades to increase capacity for hay. Most wagons were multi-purpose and attachments could be added to alter storage for whatever was required.

Left - Fred says that this is the same model wagon that you see in Constable's 'The Hay Wain' painting. Its construction is robust and liberal use of iron strapping removes the need for a complex framework to contain panel boards.

It would originally have been brightly painted, but due to treatment for woodworm infestation when it was rescued from an old barn by Fred, it's lost colour.

Apparently the wagon (in the painting) had been driven into the river Stour so that the joints on the wheels would swell and tightened up. It could also have been an easy way to cool down and water the horses at the same time.

Right - Sales leaflet from Milford & Son detailing the prizes and commendations received at various agricultural shows.

to county. For instance, wagons made in Devon tend to be much shorter in wheelbase compared to those made in the flatter counties such as Suffolk or Norfolk. Not surprising considering how narrow and steep some of our lanes are, manoeuvrability would have been an important attribute for the wagon.

A major and complex component of the wagon was the cartwheel, which

again required specialist skills. The wheelwright would have been kept busy repairing wheels, not surprising considering that most lanes and tracks would be rutted and full of stones, putting great stress on wheel components. I should imagine the great diameter of the wheels helped to smooth out the ride, but if you've been down our greenlanes after a torrential downfall, you'll have seen the deep ruts that can develop, these

must have been treacherous for drivers if a wheel dropped into one

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

of these on an a downward incline and with a full load.

55

Kings of the

Highway

Mike Rowland Wheelwright & Coachbuilder - (left to right ) Greg Rowland, Mike Rowland and George (apprentice).

Whilst visiting Bicton Park Museum, Fred advised me to visit Mike Rowland Wheelwright & Coachbuilder at Colyton, who've assisted with various restoration projects at Bicton Park- they're renowned craftsmen and are By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen. It was a real treat visiting this local business, the depth of skills that Greg and Mike have mastered is truly astounding. They can tackle any project thrown at them, from gypsy caravans to cannon chassis restoration. Needless to say, their specialist services are in demand far and wide.

Above - The By Appointment crest proudly displayed at the front of premises.

Left - a cannon undergoing restoration at Mike Rowland's workshop.

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SOUTH DEVON

Coast & Country

handcrafted and high quality furniture

Some of the components used in wheel construction, note the stock with off set spoke mortices. The offset is to reduce the chance of cracking from the corner of the mortice to the next mortice. Elm was used for the stock due to its 'wavy' grain nature - this would help to prevent cracks from propogating from one joint to the next.

W

inser ood orks

Tim is dedicated to developing your ideas into your own piece of handcrafted and high quality furniture, whether it be free standing, ďŹ tted or renovating your existing furniture to make it look brand new.

Unit 4 Ermington Workshops, Ermington PL21 9NT

01752 690561/ 07584 318357 winserwoodworks.co.uk

Right - a pile of precut felloes at Mike Rowland & Son. In a future issue of Coast & Country we'll be taking a look in detail at the craft of wheel building which is truly fascinating, particularly if you're keen on traditional skills and crafts.

A Devon Ship Wagon circa 1850 at Bicton Park's Museum. An extremely fine construction with curvature from the bottom of the wagon body to the top rail. To achieve accurate mating of all the joints in this construction must have been a highly skilled endeavour. This example is extremely rare and well worth seeing - it's an important part of our heritage.

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

57

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

Local manufacturer goes from strength to strength - Right Price Windows Right Price PVCu, an Independent, Plymouth-based installer & manufacturer of windows, doors and conservatories, has shown how local, family-run businesses can shine against their national rivals.

With over 24 years’ experience in offering quality supply and fit - locally manufactured products, along with the latest energy efficiency technology and moving with the ever changing needs of its customers, Right Price is the preferred choice for Plymouth’s PVCu installation and building needs.

Page 35: HOME IMPROVE

the footings of an extension or conservatory, right through to the trimming of the last window to be installed, meaning that consistent quality and is assured at every stage of the job.

New company directors - Sarah Haseler and Travis Chiddle say the key to success is having a great team of skilled fabricators, experienced fitters, and a friendly, knowledgeable sales team.

As well as offering the highest quality product, and a fantastic range of conservatories, porches, windows, patio doors, bi-folds, composite and PVCu doors, all in a variety of colours and styles.

They add Right Price’s approach is very different to that of most double glazing firms, who rely on gimmick offers, and high-pressure sales tactics.

Director, Sarah Haseler says “we know we have a fantastic product, and highly competitive prices, we don’t need to push this on people, our unbeatable service and products speak for themselves’.

With in-house building teams, Right Price is able to offer the whole package under one roof, from

Travis Chiddle and Sarah Haseler Right Price Windows 01752 344052

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40

The South West's Beauty Spots Now Open To All - Trampers A charity is enabling people to adventure and explore outdoors, regardless of how far they can walk, through the use of a 'Tramper'.

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

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.

Courses and Classes can be found on: southdevonhub .co.uk STRESSED? TRY RELAXING TAI CHI CHI HEALING 02 Oct to 13 Dec - Wed and Fri Classes in Ashburton and South Brent. Call Christine 01364 653810, Rainbow Tai Chi Chi Healing School, 6.30pm.

FORAGING DEEPER 23 Oct - The course offers simple techniques to integrate wild food foraging into event, WildWise, Totnes, 9.30am.

WATERCOLOUR PAINTING CLASS 29 Oct - Snowy scenes for Christmas.

W.colour combined with pen/ink for card production, The Garden House, Yelverton, 10.30am.

Nevil explores the paths at Penrose. It has enabled him and others to get out and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

M

any of us enjoy exploring the grounds of the South West’s beautiful country houses, park areas or coast path. We are blessed with a wide range of places to visit, where we can experience the changes in seasons, colours and sounds of nature and the peace and quiet that this can bring.

Easy to manoeuvre, the Trampers are stable over a range of terrain and the simple, quick training makes them safe and easy to use. With the ability to go virtually anywhere, Trampers ensure independence and freedom, enabling users to adventure alone or as part of a family day out.

Frequently such walks lead to a tea or coffee shop, with views that can continue to be enjoyed over refreshments. Yet for many, this is where their outing begins and ends, due to being unable to walk even a small distance.

It is a scheme which is proving extremely popular with people of all ages who want to get out and enjoy the countryside, but previously were unable.

The Countryside Mobility scheme, run

by Devon charity Living Options Devon, is ensuring that the South West is a truly ‘accessible’ environment for everyone by improving access to the countryside for people with limited mobility.

Based on the principle of urban Shopmobility schemes, ‘Tramper’ all-terrain mobility scooters are now available at more than 30 countryside locations across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Somerset with more to follow, making them increasingly simple and straightforward to gain access to.

Burton Farmhouse Country Hotel for the elderly Why not join us in our country hotel for a day, a week or longer, in a beautiful farmhouse surrounded by stunning countryside and close to the sea?

We offer large rooms, good food, companionship, a happy environment and 24 hour call bell system.

Call Anne: 01548 561210.

Galmpton, Devon www.burtonfarmhouse.co.uk

For Nevil Salisbury-Rood, from Chard in Somerset, the Tramper has been life-changing. He said: “I really enjoy wildlife photography and I visited the Penrose Estate in Helston, Cornwall and used the Tramper because I can’t walk very far. It allowed me to get around part of the lake and out onto the South West Coast Path which is something I would never be able to do normally because of my bad leg. The coastal views are fantastic and I shot some great photos”.

The Trampers can go up and down slopes, over bumps and tree roots, through shallow puddles, mud and soft ground and are for use by anyone aged 14 or over who has a permanent or temporary condition that affects their ability to walk.

With a top speed of four miles an hour they can keep pace with the briskest walking companion.

James Maben from Countryside Mobility explains:

“Trampers are for everyone who wants to enjoy the countryside but can’t manage much walking. You do not have to be registered as a disabled person, or have a Blue Badge. Many people have found that Trampers have given them back their freedom, enabling them to enjoy time outdoors alone, with their partner or on a family outing.

for .co.uk forWhat's What'sOn On, ,visit: visit: eastdevonhub southdevonhub .co.uk

“With such a varied selection of sites now involved, people with limited mobility have some fantastic opportunities to get out and explore the region. There is something for everyone - from wild Exmoor moorland to peaceful country parks and beautiful sections of the South West Coast Path."

To use the Trampers, people simply choose their site and arrange their first visit. On arrival, they join as members of Countryside Mobility which costs £10.00 per year or £2.50 for 4 weeks. Training is provided on how to use a Tramper lasting approximately 15 minutes. They are then given a membership card, which enables them to use a Tramper at any partner site without the need for further training.

Prior to a Tramper being placed at a site, an access audit is completed by Countryside Mobility staff to ensure that the site is suitable and safe for use by Trampers. Each site provides maps and route advice for Tramper users and has a breakdown/recovery system in place if a user has a problem.

The scheme is being developed through a partnership between organisations that manage countryside sites across the region including: Cornwall AONB Service, Devon County Council, Exmoor National Park Authority, Gloucestershire County Council, Dorset County Council, The Forestry Commission, Tamar Valley AONB Service, Royal Horticultural Society, South West Lakes Trust, The Wheelyboat Trust, The RSPB and the National Trust.

The scheme has been supported with a grant from Natural England as part of its Access to Nature programme, funded from the Big Lottery Fund’s Changing Spaces programme.

Full details about Countryside Mobility and a list of where Trampers are available can be found on the website www.countrysidemobility.org or by calling 01392 459222. You can also find out more by following them on Twitter @CMSouthWest or Facebook CountrysideMobility.

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RESEARCHING YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECT?

Adam Gribble

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Garden design, construction and maintenance

Through

the

Garden Gate

RHS Silver Flora Medal Show Garden Malvern Spring Show 2010 RHS Bronze Flora Medal Small Garden Gardenersʼ World Live 2009 National Award Winners NS&I Growing Gardens Today 2009

07731 447951 info@through-the-garden-gate.co.uk www.through-the-garden-gate.co.uk

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SOUTH DEVON

Garden Leisure & Aquatics • Large selection of fresh cut needlefast Xmas Trees • Coffee shop with homemade meals and cakes - book early for xmas lunches

• Aquatics Centre • Giftware • Extensive range of birdseeds • End of year specials on conservatory furniture

www.online-garden-centre.com 01803 873056 Moles Lane, top of Shiphay TQ3 1SY Coast & Country

But here’s the thing...

A Merry Christmas?

Bah, humbug!

Wandering and wondering, lonely as a cloud – in the Sid Vale

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE JUST JOINED US,

commercially,” he says, adding, “They are

the story so far is that Keith Owen, a merchant

so much more graceful and delicate than the

banker whose late mother loved Sidmouth,

large garden varies which look so out of place

has left his £2.25m fortune to the town for

when used for road side planting and massed

community projects.

plantings in public spaces. Conservation of our

The Sid Vale Association's chairperson, Alan

Lilies, so beautiful, are so much a part of our

Darrant, said: "He said in discussion about

traditional Devon countryside.”

native plants is so important: and these Lent DON’T BE PUT OFF by the theme.

the fund that we should 'think outside the box, ‘Scrooge!’ is the National Trust’s inspiration

think big, plant a million bulbs! We've ordered

He is referring of course to Narcissus

for something of a house party to which Devon

over 150,000, including daffodils, snowdrops,

pseudonarcissus, the British wild daffodil and

is invited this Christmas holiday period, at

crocuses, and bluebells, which will be planted

the one immortalized in Wordsworth’s poem.

Killerton House, near Exeter.

on 40 sites. I think it will be quite stunning."

Once widespread in Devon's river meadows, it is now vastly reduced in numbers by modern

So wrap yourself in the warm green mantle of Dickens’s Ghost of Christmas Present but

Return of the native

farming practice.

whoosh yourself back in time to witness

Enter Sid Vale resident and countryside lover

It will be interesting to see whether or not

Christmas Past at a great Victorian mansion

George Woodward, championing the inclusion

George’s plea has fallen on stony ground and

dressed overall in preparation for the jolliest

of British native daffodil in the vale’s bounty.

we look forward to seeing what will pop up

“Modern agriculture has reduced their

going to press is that all the bulbs on order have

season of the year.

Just don’t be spooked if you bump into the

in the Spring. All we know for sure at time of numbers in the wild but they are available

been sourced from British growers.

Many a good tune

According to legend the piece of music chosen

old skinflint himself or some of the other merrier cast of characters from that immortal classic The Christmas Carol as you wander the house and perhaps partake of a mince pie or two along with a tot of mulled wine

by Titanic’s bandmaster Wallace Hartley and played by him as the ship went down on that

along the way.

fateful night of April 14th 1912, was Nearer my God to Thee. This hymn, was written by one Sarah Ann Flower back in 1841.

The complete story unfolds at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton

It was a great era for writing hymns, witness the blue plaque on the wall of Berry Head House,

Scrooge’s happy ending!

And it was always said of him, that he knew

near Brixham. This records that it was here,

how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive

at his home in 1847, that Rev Henry Francis

possessed the knowledge. May that be truly

Photo: Bournemouth News

Lyte, Vicar of All Saints wrote that other great

said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim

THE SO-CALLED ‘TITANIC’ VIOLIN sold at

hymn, also played by those courageous men

observed, God bless Us, Every One!” (Dickens,

auction for £900,000 recently reminded us of

in Hartley’s small ensemble, Abide with Me.

Christmas Carol)

a link to Devon’s musical past.

John Fisher

for What's On, visit: southdevonhub .co.uk

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