WOODBURY NEWS
DECEMBER 2023
2
3
DECEMBER 2023 EDITORIAL Many congratulations are due this month, both to individuals and to organisations who have excelled in more ways than one. Earlier in the year, Woodbury News drew attention to the upcoming CPRE Devon’s Best Churchyard Competition 2023. And now we are able to report on not one but two winning entries: Gulliford Burial Ground has been awarded Most Original entry (see page 27), and St Swithun’s churchyard is the proud holder of a Certificate of Excellence (see page 6). These two awards are the result of many hours of voluntary sheer hard work by a few willing volunteers. Other people not afraid of getting their hands dirty include keen Woodbury Garden Club members who have recently refilled the planters in the Arch (see page 8), not forgetting those who spent the summer watering the displays of annuals planted there. A second tidy-up has also taken place in Woodbury Salterton churchyard, unearthing hidden graves (see page 20). If you are keen on the outdoors and have a bit of spare time, the RSPB at Aylesbeare welcomes volunteers too (see page 29). With an eye to the future, keen Tennis Club members have helped shift the now dismantled club hut and its contents, whilst still finding time for the odd game of tennis. We will keep our fingers crossed when the results of Wild About Devon Awards 2023 are announced on 1 December as Tony Bennett of WildWoodbury has been short-listed for an Outstanding Individual Award. A summary of everything he has done and is still doing in support of Devon’s wildlife can be found on page 16. As with all things, it’s not about winning but about taking part that matters. Well done, everyone. As we go to press and anticipate the parties, Christmas meals and opening of the Living Advent Calendar windows, the whole team at Woodbury News wishes everyone in our parish well for the coming festive season and the New Year. When hearing about wars, famine and devastation in other parts of the world, we remain ever grateful for everything that we are lucky enough to have, and for the peaceful part of the world where we live. The cover photograph, by the Editor, is of the Woodbury Primary School pupils reading their Dam Buster poems at the Remembrance Day Service on the village green on 11 November (see page 12).
4 ST SWITHUN’S CHURCH, WOODBURY Administrator: Jill Dupain dupain@hotmail.co.uk CHURCH SERVICES AND EVENTS FOR DECEMBER 3 December - Advent Sunday. Holy Communion at Swithun’s, 11.15. Evening Worship at Exton, 18.00. Saturday 9 December St Swithun’s Winter Fair in Church, 09.30 - 12.00. St Swithun’s Christmas Concert, 19.30 featuring Woodbury Community Choir and Bel Canto. 10 December - 2nd Sunday of Advent. Holy Communion at Exton 09.30. Holy Communion at St Swithun’s, 11.15. Friday 15 December - Carol Service at St Swithun’s 18.30, followed by mulled wine and mince pies. 17 December - 3rd Sunday of Advent. Carols on the Green, 19.00. Wednesday 20 December - Carol Service at Exton, 19.00. 24 December - Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass at St Swithun’s, 23.30. 25 December - Christmas Day, Holy Communion at Exton, 09.30. Morning Worship at St Swithun’s, 10.30. 31 December - Christmas 1 / Epiphany Mission Community Service to say farewell to Revd Bill at St Swithun’s at 11.15, followed by refreshments. Further information will be available on the church noticeboard and in the monthly Digest. To receive this by email please send your email address to st.swithuns.digest@gmail.com. FLOODLIGHTING ST SWITHUN’S CHURCH 16 December Derrick Mead: "Happy birthday Marian, with love from Derrick and all the family.” For your special event, contact Mike Jeans on 01395 232544. Floodlight dedications are displayed on the church noticeboard at the lych gate. CHURCH ALTAR FLOWERS - DECEMBER 3, 10, 17 & 24 - Advent, No flowers. 25 - Mrs S Huish - Christmas. 31 Mrs S Huish. Please note - we will decorate church for Christmas from Monday 18 December. Barbara Hill Woodbury News is a Private Company Limited by Guarantee No. 5263356 Secretary: Karen Squires, Willowfield, Oakhayes Road, Woodbury EX5 1JT. 233299 Registered Office: Willowfield, Oakhayes Road, Woodbury EX5 1JT. Tel: 233299 Chairman: Jeremy Boyden, Rosemary, Broadway, Woodbury EX5 1NR. Tel: 233072 Editor: Sue Bury, Mayflower Cottage, 37 Greenway, Woodbury EX5 1LU. Tel: 233753 Deputy Editor: Val Arndt, Castlehaye, Castle Lane, Woodbury. Tel: 233175 Subscriptions: Jeremy Boyden, Rosemary, Broadway, Woodbury EX5 1NR. Tel: 233072 Deliveries: Chris Bowers, chrisbowers88@yahoo.co.uk or 01395 239338
5 ST SWITHUN’S CHURCH CHRISTMAS FAIR 9 DECEMBER IN CHURCH FROM 09.30-12.30 There will be coffee, cakes, gifts, books and the draw for the grand raffle. Raffle tickets now on sale from Sue Hudson or members of the PCC.
WOODBURY COMMUNITY CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT SATURDAY 9 DECEMBER AT 19.00 St Swithun’s Church Tickets £7.50 to include light refreshments. The concert is in aid of Budleigh Salterton & District Hospiscare. Tickets available towards the end of November from Sue Hudson 232203.
6 CHURCHYARD AWARD St Swithun’s churchyard has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence in the CPRE competition for the best kept churchyard. This is the third year running that the churchyard has received an award. This year we have planted another two trees, we have a new bench, we have refurbished the old toilet to become a secure shed and acquired two water butts. We have also recently planted a new hedge on the north side of the church by the new bank, using local saplings. It is rewarding and encouraging for the group to receive this award in recognition of all the hard work they do throughout the year. Thanks also must go to Chris Sheppard and Murrough MacDonnell for their help in providing the bench and water butts. We are a friendly group and meet most Saturdays: if you would like to join us contact Sue Hudson on 232203 or just turn up! The photo shows some of the group sharing a social lunch together, with Gordon and Elspeth holding the award. Sue Hudson
CAROLS ROUND THE VILLAGE This annual event will take place on Thursday 21 December. We welcome participants, the more the merrier! We will set off to sing in as many places round the village as we can, time permitting. Please meet up by the Green where the pizza van parks, in time for the 19.00 start. If you want to join in later, just listen out for us. All monies raised will be for Save the Children. **Please note this is NOT the same event as Carols on the Green**
7
WOODBURY CAMERA CLUB CALENDARS These calendars are now available from Rook Pie, The Maltsters (Sam’s stores), or Sue Hudson 232203. Price £8.
WOODBURY VILLAGE GOLF SOCIETY Bigbury Golf Club - 12 October Bigbury is such a pleasant venue when the sun shines. Although our golfers enjoyed fair weather, if overcast initially, that was not to be the case at the finish. With heavy drizzle later on and at the end poor visibility, several of the last greens were invisible on approach. The greens were generally slow as they had recently been hollow-tined. Clearly this did not affect the golf too much with 15 of the 22 players scoring 30 points and above. The day finished with an excellent meal of steak and ale pie followed by apple crumble. Nick Jones made the only two, on the 7th, which was nice for him as there were no twos scored at Dartmouth, and he therefore benefitted from the carry-over; Clive Bennett was nearest the pin on the 17th. For the teams, in third place with a handsome score of 79 were Roger Norman, Paul Wooley and David Moore; in second place with an excellent 84 points were Peter Heron, Morton Middleditch and John Waite; and the winners, on countback, with another 84 points, Bob Thomlinson, Nick Jones and Clive Bennett. For the individuals, in third place with 36 points Morton Middleditch, in second place with 37 points John Waite, and the winner, Paul Woolley, with a very fine 40 points. Our Annual Dinner will be held on Paul Woolley receiving 1st Thursday 8 February at the Maltsters. prize from our chairman. Jeremy Browne, Past WVGS Chairman
8 WOODBURY GARDEN CLUB The report of the November meeting will appear next month. We have no speaker booked for our December meeting, as we hope to be busy enjoying our Christmas meal instead! Club members have cleared the spent summer bedding from the planters in the Arch, and replanted them with cheerful winter-flowering cyclamen and violas. How many passers-by have seen these yet behind all the parked cars? And how many have spotted the little scented narcissi already in full bloom? They should barely be poking their noses out of the soil in November, let alone be in flower. I guess we can blame this on the strange weather conditions this year. But there are many examples of plants that should be in flower in the winter, so keep an eye out as you walk round the village – for example, the scented camellia along the wall of the old Webber’s farmhouse in Parsonage Way was in full flower at the time of writing. The yellow mahonia, with its sprays of yellow lily-of-the-valley scented blossom, is beginning to bloom in many gardens, and you may notice a sweet scent wafting through the air, but with no apparent source – it’s probably coming from a shrub behind a hedge or wall. Our Christmas meal is on Tuesday 5 December, at the Maltsters, 19.00 for a 19.30 start. Open to members, their spouses, partners and their friends. Debby Mullier Super-early narcissi on the Arch, with bright cyclamen in the background
WOODBURY NEWS CLOSING DATES 11 DECEMBER. 2024 15 JANUARY. 19 FEBRUARY. 18 MARCH. 15 APRIL. 20 MAY. 17 JUNE. 15 JULY. ALL MATERIAL FOR THE MAGAZINE SHOULD BE SENT TO KAREN SQUIRES, WILLOWFIELD, OAKHAYES ROAD by 19.00 on the closing date, with a name and telephone number, or email to karensquires100@gmail.com
9
WOODBURY LIVING ADVENT CALENDAR 1 December marks the beginning of Woodbury Living Advent Calendar. We’re so pleased that the community has embraced this event for a sixth year and we hope that you can come and join us at the Parish Council Office at 18.30 for the first window reveal. There’s still time to buy your trail map so you can locate each new window, leading up to the grand community reveal of 32 mini-windows on Christmas Eve at the slightly earlier time of 17.30 at the Woodbury Church Rooms. Maps are on sale now at Woodbury Primary School, Woodbury After School Club, Woodbury Parish Council Office, Rook Pie and Willow Hair & Wellbeing. We know that some locations plan to provide festive treats on their reveal night (the 12th, highlighting the halfway point, being one of them) and look out for sprigs of mistletoe for sale on the 15 December reveal too. WLAC tote bags, Christmas cards and gift tags will be available to buy throughout the month from Rook Pie, Willow Hair & Wellbeing and at most window reveals. An anonymous donor has paid for the production of our cards and the trail maps have been printed free of charge by FORCE, so every penny from these sales and the profit from the sale of tote bags will be divided equally between our local charities: Salt Path Challenge; You, Me & MND, FORCE and Woodbury Church Rooms. Following the sad news that our vibrant friend Sarah has passed away, we are now supporting Salt Path Challenge and You, Me & MND in her memory. We understand that not everyone will be able to get out and about on dark winter evenings, so do look out on the Woodbury & Woodbury Salterton Community Facebook page and our Instagram account (@2023wlac) to see a photograph of each Advent window once it has been ‘opened’. So, here’s to a wonderful month of community fun and fundraising. Do take care while out and about in the dark, and finally a thousand thanks to everyone who has made this event possible. Jules & Roo
WOODBURY NEWS is available online and via Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
10 WOODBURY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL Sporting Updates – November was a busy time for sport at the school: Our Year 5/6 boys’ football teams played their first scheduled match in the EPFL; they played several different Exeter Schools with tenacity and teamwork.
Year 5/6 boys’ football teams Year 1 and 2 children took part in
a PE Impact afternoon; they had great fun learning and performing a fireworks dance. Year 2 children went to St Peter’s Preparatory School for an afternoon of tag rugby. They learnt some key skills and played a game of tag rugby at the end. Ten Year 1 children got the opportunity to attend an aesthetics festival, taking part in dance, yoga, and gymnastics activities at Exmouth Tennis Centre. Our Year 5 girls’ cross country team represented Exmouth Schools at the East Devon Cross Country final – they ran a tricky course with determination and we are very proud of their achievement.
Year 2 - tag rugby
11
Year 1 - aesthetics festival
Year 5 - girls’ cross country team
Ash Class Ash class dressed up in all their 1940s finery for an immersion into life during World War II. They explored a range of sources, including some children's family artefacts, diaries and photographs, and concluded with some freeze frames of male and female jobs. They enjoyed eating Mrs O'Donnell's chocolate cake (minus eggs) and spam hash. Finally, they played red rover and cannon (WWII games) outside - great fun had by all!
12 WOODBURY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL cont’d/... Remembrance Ash class have also been learning about the Dambusters Raid, it being the 80th anniversary of the raid. They have written some beautifully emotive poems, three of which were read out by Eliza, Grace and Faith at the Woodbury Remembrance Service on the Green on 11 November. Our Remembrance display, in the window of the school in Castle Lane, is of a large poppy made from smaller poppies and handprints contributed by each child in the school. There is also some of the poetry the Year 6 children wrote, with sketches and information about the Dambusters Raid. We will keep this up for the whole of November for you to view. Woodbury Parent Tours These are happening through November and December for parents and carers of children who will be starting school in September 2024. We have tour dates on the following days: 28 November, 16.00 and 7 December, 17.30. We also have an Open Morning on Saturday 9 December from 10.00 to 12.00, which will be an opportunity for you to chat with the class teachers, and for the children to explore the learning environment, toast a marshmallow on the campfire, to see the classroom bases and to get to meet other families interested in joining our school. No need to book - just pop along to see us on the morning – we look forward to welcoming you. Gillian Pyle (Head of School) WOODBURY TWINNING ASSOCIATION Our Annual General Meeting will be held on 23 January 2024 in the Church Rooms, starting at 19.30. Please contact Jan Owen at jmowenteacher@aol.com if you have a matter you would like to be discussed. Jan Owen
JOIN THE COFFEE CLUB Whether you're a coffee lover or prefer alternatives, we've got you covered! In partnership with Devon Carers Time for You, we're creating a welcoming space for you to pop in, chat, and connect with others. Mondays, 10.30 - 12:30 at Seachange for £10 (includes refreshments). It's more than a coffee break – it's a chance to unwind, share stories, and build connections. We look forward to seeing you there.
13 WOODBURY TENNIS CLUB Despite poor weather during October and early November, play continued at the club. The club hut, which had been in place for fifty years, was finally demolished. The demolition took place on a Saturday in October with many members helping to remove items from the hut for safekeeping under the direction of Alan Wills. Then the following Monday, Richard House and his men from House-It came along with a large digger to place the dismantled hut in a skip. The club is very grateful to House-It for offering their services without charge, making a difficult task much easier.
The digger at work The base will soon be laid in the cleared area for the new pre-constructed pavilion which is to be brought from Dunkerswell and erected on site. Russ Gibbs, with help from members Andy Johnson, Andy Brown and Jon Hall, have almost completed that work. While this work was progressing the courts were clear and tennis was played when the weather allowed, including a mixed match v Newton St Cyres, which finished in the rain with a 4-4 result. It is our intention to have the new pavilion in place by the end of November. We will then be looking for a kitchen sink, cupboards and a worktop - if anyone is having a new kitchen fitted, we would readily accept the cast-offs! It is very sad to report that the club has lost one of its long-term members, Roger Spencer, following a diagnosis of cancer and then a short illness. He was a good tennis player who in his more than 30 years at the club had been a committee member, a team member of both mixed and men’s teams and a regular attender at club sessions. He will be greatly missed for his advice to his partners and also for his ability to identify any bird in the trees or sky! Above all, he was a good friend to many of us. Pat Browne
14 WOODBURY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Instead of having a speaker for our November meeting we had a quiz, devised by one of our members. We were divided into groups of four or five, and we had about seven rounds of questions, many of them very challenging. As we were so near to the festive season, many of the rounds consisted of things connected to Christmas, including reindeer, trees, songs and novels. Other rounds featured general knowledge.
After a break for refreshments, with free tea/coffee and the most delicious mince pies (courtesy of not having to pay for a speaker), the quiz continued with my team triumphant winners, thanks to two very knowledgeable team members. It was a most enjoyable occasion, and many thanks to Ann Shell for providing the quiz and organising the mince pies. We continue to enjoy board game afternoons, book group discussions, coffee mornings and the occasional afternoon tea outing, while we look forward to our Christmas lunch on Thursday 14 December. See what you are missing! Do come along next year, when you will be warmly welcomed; we meet at 14.00 on the second Thursday of the month in Woodbury village hall. Tricia Willey COFFEE & CAKE MORNINGS ON THE FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH IN WOODBURY CHURCH ROOMS, 10.00 – 12.00. DO JOIN US!
Supporting You in Your Local Community
15 WOODBURY AND DISTRICT ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Armistice Day falling on a lovely bright Saturday gave the community a chance to commemorate the morning with the school in attendance. My thanks to Kate Vernon and the support team for the tributes the children wrote and read out and for laying a poppy posy at the War Memorial.
Remembrance Service on the Green —11 November
The Remembrance Service on the Sunday afternoon was also well attended with a great turnout by youth groups. Thank you Helen and the team for laying a wreath of poppies during the ceremony. Sandra Huish, Chairman LYMPSTONE MUMMERS COMING TO WOODBURY For many years a traditional Mummers Play has been performed in the Lympstone pubs just before Christmas. As their village is a pub short this year, the Mummers have agreed to bring their play to Woodbury as well, on Friday 23 December, before heading back to Lympstone. The ten-minute play is probably about 200 years old and is thought to have originally been performed by Lympstone’s fishermen, seeking contributions to their festive funds from the “big houses”. All words in the script, handed down over generations, will be spoken. However, there might be the odd embellishment too, when England’s old foes are comically cut down by King George, then rudely revived by a dubious doctor. The troupe of six players and musicians will burst thirstily into the White Hart at around 19.00, and fight their way over to the Maltsters half an hour later. A collection will be taken for the Children’s Society. Old Father Christmas
16 WOODBURY WIDE AWAKE Tony Bennett of Wild-Woodbury has been shortlisted in the Devon Local Nature Partnership (LNP) Wild about Devon Awards 2023 for an Outstanding Individual. Nominations are judged on actions taken to make a positive impact upon wildlife and habitats in Devon, and social benefits such as an increase in skills, awareness of nature, social interaction, wellbeing, or health. The award ceremony will be held on 1 December at County Hall, Exeter. Tony and his wife set up the organisation Wild-Woodbury in 2016, dedicated to reversing the decline in local habitat and wildlife numbers. In the past years, Tony has rescued hundreds of wild animals - birds, badgers, hedgehogs, foxes, polecats, mice, and even a beaver. He has taken numerous self-funded ecological courses and recently gained his Natural England Dormouse and Great Crested Newt Licences. Tony's fundraising efforts recently raised the money to upgrade his wild animal treatment centre, as regional facilities were at maximum capacity. He has built important relationships with local vets and wildlife rescue and treatment centres. Tony wrote the habitat management plan for Woodbury cricket ground/ recreation area and the surrounding trees and grassland, and has been responsible for community actions, such as the planting of additional trees, creation of a wildflower meadow, and the installation of numerous artificial nest boxes for birds, bats, insects and small mammals. He is a director of Devon Wildlife Support, an organisation which helps vets to care for wildlife and to liaise with local rehabilitation facilities. He hopes to run courses in the near future that will give veterinarians specialised training in dealing with wild animals and show members of the public what to do if they find sick or injured wildlife. Since Tony started promoting wildlife in his local area, he has brought together hundreds of residents, schoolchildren and experts from many areas including climate change, ecology, and wildlife, who actively work together for the benefit of the local environment. This year he organised a highly successful Festival of Wildness community event in Woodbury. He is a relentless champion for cleaner air and unpolluted rivers within the parish of Woodbury. We wish him luck with the Awards, and his future work in the community. Wild-Woodbury Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 1730189360547631/ Wild About Devon Awards 2023 event https://www.devonlnp.org.uk/ upcoming-events/wild-about-devon-awards-2023/ Susie Culhane Editor’s Note : In order to maximise submitted copy and photographs into Woodbury News, it may be necessary to reduce the size of some items. The Editorial team will attempt to do this as carefully as possible.
17
WOODBURY PARISH COUNCIL Woodbury Parish Office
Greenside, Greenway, Woodbury, Devon EX5 1LP. Telephone: 01395 233791. Email: clerk@woodburyparishcouncil.gov.uk The Parish Office is open: 09.30 - 12.30, Mon, Tues, Weds and Thurs. Clerk to the Council: Anne-Marie Bates https://woodburyparishcouncil.gov.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/Woodbury-Parish-Council-110020645153509 X@ParishWoodbury (formerly Twitter) Parish Council Update Since our last article in July’s Woodbury News, it has been a very busy period especially with regard to planning. Firstly, we would like to thank Philip Jordan, a councillor for Exton Ward, who has recently resigned due to other personal commitments. We thank him for his contribution and the work that he has done for the community over the years; we wish him all the best for the future. We are now welcoming applicants for this volunteering role, so if you are interested in your community and would like to help shape it, then please contact one of the other Exton Councillors, Cllr Sally Cole or Cllr Steve Parks, or the Parish Clerk to discuss this position further. Internal and External Audits have been completed and signed off. These reports, along with the Parish Council’s recently approved new policies, also agenda and minutes of our Council meetings can be found on our website. https://woodburyparishcouncil.gov.uk/ It is also worth noting that as the first resort, the Parish Council will be using General Power of Competence; our Facebook page is https:// www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084814840341. Many of our Councillors have been very busy regarding planning, networking with neighbouring Parish Councils/Town Councils, whereby discussions have taken place to look at a more joined-up thinking and approach. Some topics discussed were sewage matters, infrastructure, flood resilience, expanding / linking footpath networks, green wedges and SANGS (Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace) areas, as well as the River Exe Management. We will continue to have these meetings, so we not only have our voice but, when needed, a united voice. Neighbourhood Plan During the Full Council meeting on 9 October the Parish Council approved the Neighbourhood Plan to be moved onto the next stage. This means that early in the New Year we will be holding a public consultation for you to have your say along with other statutory bodies. cont’d/...
18 WOODBURY PARISH COUNCIL cont’d/… The consultation will run for at least six weeks and at the end of it comments will be collated, and the Neighbourhood Plan amended accordingly. It will then be submitted again to the Parish Council for their consideration as to whether it is ready to be presented to East Devon District Council, the next stage in the process. We would like to take this opportunity to thank two residents, Mr R Bartlett and Mrs J Owen, for their contribution as they have now stepped down from the Neighbourhood Steering Committee. Exton Cllr Sally Cole and Cllr Steve Parks have been meeting with Lympstone Flood Resilience Group to take advice on how Exton can start their own group. Both Councillors have met with Devon County Council regarding the Exton DRIP Project which is looking at flooding issues. In August a public event was held to discuss their plans, including a topographical survey as well as Mill Lane intervention. All Exton bus shelters are in the process of having a lick of paint and maintenance work. Unfortunately, recently there has been a spate of antisocial behaviour with graffiti being left on our assets as well as residents’ properties; we are in the process of removing it. Exton Play Park: unfortunately the zip wire has reached the end of its life and we have removed parts so it can’t be used due to safety issues; the remains will be removed soon. However, please watch this space for information on improvement schemes for this play space, which the Chairman and Exton Councillors are investigating. Woodbury We have removed the bench on The Green between the play park and tree as it was not fit for purpose. This will not be replaced as we feel that there is sufficient seating at this open space. Planning As many of you are aware, several major applications for Woodbury have been submitted to East Devon District Council (EDDC) for approval. On 24 October Cllr J Pyne spoke at the EDDC Planning meeting along with two residents, about concerns with speeding traffic along Broadway, the need for a controlled crossing, traffic calming measures including gateways, narrowing of the carriageway, designated parking, and two new bus stops. The application was deferred due to further investigation with regard to sewage. Since we raised the concerns, we have shown our frustration with EDDC and Devon County Council and contacted them regarding the highway issues and planning procedures. Unfortunately we are in a situation whereby East Devon District Council do not have a 5-year land supply, which has caused several developers to come forward and submit their schemes.
19 We have asked that any development which is approved should be the best scheme it can be, considering safety issues for pedestrians and road users, and having “build for benefit” policy, so the community gains something from a development to mitigate its impact. Mirey Lane to the Church Rooms footpath resurfacing works should have taken place in October, but we were notified that Devon County Council’s contractor has delayed the works until February / March 2024. Woodbury Living Advent Calendar will start with the Parish Council’s window on Friday 1 December. We look forward to seeing you at the reveal which Kate Turner has kindly led on again this year, with help from the community. Chris Lear will generously be providing refreshments and Graham Joyce will be turning on the Christmas lights on the Green, kindly put up by Dartmoor Tree Surgeons. We hope to see you all there and supporting the rest of the trail, and thank the supporters and those volunteers who have arranged the event. Just a few reminders: Vehicles in the Flower Street car park must be taxed and have a valid MOT, with the parking orders observed. If vehicles are left there, do not have a MOT or are untaxed, they will be removed. Hedges / foliage over footpaths: please make sure you cut back greenery, so it does not encroach on the public footpath. Please pick up rubbish and clear up after your dog. There are several dog and rubbish bins that can be used. Our Full Council meetings are usually held in The Church Rooms, Woodbury, on the second Monday of each month and our committee meetings on the fourth Monday, excluding August (recess). All residents are welcome to attend. NOTE TO CONTRIBUTORS FROM THE EDITORIAL TEAM We are most grateful to all contributors for sending in copy and photographs for inclusion in Woodbury News. Without your efforts, our monthly publication simply would not exist. However, please may we remind you to help us by sending in your contributions by the closing date, and even more importantly, before the deadline of 19.00 on that day. If you are not yet on the list of people who have already provided me with their email address so that I can send you a reminder each month, please do so now. This arrives in your inbox one week before the deadline. Emails go out bcc, so no-one knows who else is on the list. Sue Bury (Editor), suebury@aol.com
20
WOODBURY SALTERTON NEWS HOLY TRINITY CHURCH The Candlelit Carol Service will take place on Sunday 17 December at 18.00 and will be followed by mulled wine and mince pies. Carol Singing around the Village will be on Thursday 21 December keeping the ancient tradition of singing carols outdoors, with a collection for The Children’s Society. We welcome anyone who would like to join us for this – and you may bring your dog if you wish. Meet outside The Digger’s Rest at 18.00. Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve will begin at 23.30. Quiz Thank you to everyone who has bought and sold quizzes. I have already received five completed entries. The closing date is not until 14 January. Copies are still available if you want to have a go over Christmas. Local History Uncovered During a second tidy-up of the churchyard, several graves, hidden for a long time by a large rhodendron bush, have come to light. Mark Lovett, Phil Dent and Debbie Jung were giving it and the accompanying brambles a severe prune when they discovered some of the earliest graves in the churchyard, dating from the 1850s. One is of a man, his wife and their 20 month old child, but the names are hard to read. The church was consecrated on 28 September 1844 but may not have been completely finished by then as the earliest grave in the churchyard (near the main door) is that of J G Hallett who died in May 1845 aged 12. He was killed when building materials fell from the roof. Remembrance Graham Gerdes led the Act of Remembrance at the lych gate on Remembrance Sunday. The poppy wreath was laid on behalf of the Parish Council by Councillor Ben Girvin. A short service followed, taken by Mark Lovett, and Debbie Jung led prayers. A large number of people attended, standing in the road outside the lych gate. The rain fortunately held off until later. Katharine Wheeler
21 WOODBURY SALTERTON PRIMARY SCHOOL Here at Woodbury Salterton Primary school our Nursery and Reception children have enjoyed lots of autumn and harvest activities over the last half term. During the current half term we are thinking about the season changing to winter, doing fireworks, craft activities and getting ready for Christmas celebrations. In RE, the children are learning all about why Christmas is a special time for Christians. The children will look at the joy, peace and good news brought to people by the story of the birth of Jesus. Class 2 recently enjoyed their dance workshop in preparation for the Harvest Service and we were very proud of their focus and enthusiasm. A huge “well done” was given to all the children who were brave enough to stand up in church and read out the Autumn Poem. The KS2 children have continued to enjoy learning through the theme Sow, Grow and Farm. One of the highlights last month was attending the Farmwise event at Westpoint which really brought the children’s learning about farming to life. Each child had a different favourite activity that they participated in, which ranged from watching a chick hatch to examining the inside body parts of a dead pig! The children have also enjoyed participating in live online workshops run by the NFU, which showed them where the ingredients for a meal actually come from and how they are produced. They have also found out about pumpkin farming. The children were extremely excited when our school was named during a live session for asking a great question: “What are the main challenges faced by farmers today?” The answer that the farmer gave in great detail was the weather and climate change. Lucy, Administration Team To all those residents of the Parish of Woodbury Salterton who will be 70 and older by Christmas 2023 THE KERSLAKE TRUST This Trust was created on the death of Celia Elizabeth Kerslake on 19 September 1939. Under the terms of her will, some shares were left to the Trustees of Woodbury Salterton Church, with the instruction that the income received from them should be distributed among “the old people over 70 belonging to the Parish at Christmas time.” The Trustees are currently reviewing the list of beneficiaries to arrange this year’s distribution and will be pleased to hear from anyone permanently resident in the Parish who has NOT received a payment in previous years and who considers they now qualify for such a payment. Last year 56 people benefitted from the Kerslake Trust and many very kindly donated their gift back to the church, and also opted to do this in the future. If you would also like to have your share of the distribution paid straight into the church funds please let the Trustees know. Please advise Nigel Dupain on dupain@hotmail.co.uk or by phone 01395 232953 by 1 December 2023.
22
EXTON NEWS ST ANDREW’S CHURCH - DECEMBER SERVICES Sunday 3 - Evening Prayer, Revd Roz, 18.00. Sunday 10 - Holy Communion, Revd Margaret, 09.30. Wednesday 20 - Carol Concert, Lay-led, 19.00. Monday 25 - Christmas Day, Holy Communion, Revd Nigel, 09.30. SPOOKY HALLOWEEN IN EXTON Surely the weather would be kind this year for Halloween? Would there have to be the ceremonial emptying of the wellies before entry to the Puffing Billy? The forecast didn’t bode well and those ‘weather people’ were pretty accurate when it came to late afternoon and early evening. The wind blew and the rain poured, yet an astonishing number of intrepid ghosts, ghouls, skeletons – and a werewolf(!) crept out of hiding and up to the Goosefield. Meanwhile, kind villagers optimistically lit their pumpkin lamps to guide the way. The jury’s still out on exactly how many boxes of Celebrations and Haribos were consumed en route, to say nothing of the vat of mulled cider and at least 1.5 litres of damson gin (adults only, it should be pointed out!), and grateful thanks must go to the hosts at the stoppingoff points – Jacky Jacobs, Richard and Margaret Jacobs, and Becky and Graham Murrin.
23
The last-but-one stop, and an extra ‘wow factor’ this year, was a fantastic spooky show at the village hall, put on by Exton Drama Club. And then on to the Puffing Billy for much needed warmth, the chance to dry off, and the ever-welcome chips and treats for everyone. What a great village tradition this has become, started years ago by a small group of friends (special thanks to Karen Hancock and Sharon McGrath) and one hopes it will continue for years to come. And of course many thanks, too, to Exton Village Events committee for planning, organizing, advertising and making this so successful. Liz Williams EXTON VILLAGE EVENTS CHRISTMAS PARTY FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER - THE PUFFING BILLY An evening of fantastic festive fare and fun, with a three-course meal and disco entertainment. Tickets £35 each. Book your places by contacting The Puffing Billy, and be sure to get your pre-orders in. We can’t wait to see you there! Woodbury News attempts to represent a variety of views within the community, but does not accept responsibility for anything but editorial comment. While it may publish unacknowledged material, nothing is included unless the editor knows the name and address of the author(s).
24 EXTON GARDEN CLUB
Presenting the Garden Club Bench to the Goosefield, Exton Just before storm Ciaran arrived, Sarah Kellagher presented the replacement Garden Club bench to members of the Goosefield committee, Lynn Bloomfield and Elizabeth Jones.
November meeting We had a great turnout for our November meeting in Exton village hall: an illustrated presentation given by Jeremy Wilson from Stretegate Camellias, entitled The Scented Garden. Jeremy is clearly a very knowledgeable and experienced plantsman. He introduced us to a wide variety of plants with fragrance, including trees, bulbs, shrubs, perennials, annuals and house plants. What did we learn? Plants produce fragrance to attract pollinators and deter predators. The fragrance is produced by flower petals or leaves at different times in the day / night. Some plants have developed a pulsing distribution of fragrance, and others produce an anaesthetic simultaneously. Some recommendations from Jeremy of plants with fragrance: Indoors: Stephanotis floribunda, Hoya carnosa. Bulbs: Galanthus Arnott, Crocus Zwanenburg. Shrubs: Sarcococca confusa, Daphne bholua jacqueline postill. Dwarf Lilac: Syringa meyer palibin. Chocolate smelling: Cosmos atrosanguineus, clethra alnifolia pink spirez. Sarah Kellagher Next meeting ... EXTON GARDEN CLUB Dahlia Mania, Bella Given FRIDAY 1 DECEMBER, 14.00 EXTON VILLAGE HALL All welcome, non-members £3, refreshments after the talk. Any queries skellagher5@gmail.com.
25
ROUND AND ABOUT DEATH Roger Egerton Spencer 1 July 1947 - 26 October 2023 Some recollections from friends Roger was born in Mauritius in 1947. His father was a member of the Devonshire Regiment and the family travelled to many destinations around the world, Roger spending much of his early life living in Africa and South Africa. He came back to England for his education at Kelly College in Tavistock before training as a solicitor in London. For many years he worked at the law firm Vine Orchards in Exmouth, where he remained until he retired in 2019. Roger was a talented tennis player and a regular attender at club sessions, playing for the mixed and men's teams. He was renowned for his competitiveness and skilful play. He liked to organise his partners and woe betide anyone who stood in the wrong position or wasted a winning opportunity, as he didn’t like losing! It was all taken in good spirit, however, and he was always a valuable contributor to the post-match banter. In later years we used to compete with each other as to who could wear the most joint supports! One of Roger’s great attributes was the ability to make any occasion more special with his enthusiasm and positivity. This was particularly so with birdwatching and spotting wildlife. He had a very keen eye and was good at seeing things that I would often miss. On the River Otter he would always be shouting “Kingfisher” while I was looking in a different direction! In 2010, he and I went on safari in Kenya, which especially delighted him as it involved visiting areas where he had been in his earlier years. The highlight of the trip was a balloon ride over the Masai Mara, culminating in a full English breakfast with silver service in the middle of the game park, enabling Roger to indulge two of his great passions at the same time — food and wildlife. Other passions were flying and gadgets of all sorts, especially cars. Roger’s musical tastes were eclectic, from rock to classical. He was also a good singer and a fine actor, treading the boards on many occasions with a group of dear friends as part of the Woodbury Follies each year, and as a member of the WILT (Woodbury Interesting Little Theatre) company. Roger had the great gift of making any occasion seem special, and it was his positive outlook on life which made him such very good company. He will be greatly missed. Mike Wallwork cont’d/...
26 Roger Egerton Spencer 1 July 1947 - 26 October 2023 cont’d/... Roger died in October shortly after an unexpected diagnosis of cancer. His reaction was one of typical good sense and positivity, an acceptance and philosophical outlook that would be hard to beat. His family lived for many years in Exton, where his parents were instrumental in setting up the Exton Drama Club. More recently Roger lived in East Budleigh but spent much time in Woodbury. Not only have we lost a very good friend, but also all the knowledge and experience he was able to share. Roger had no family of his own but was devoted to his three siblings and their various offspring and was indeed a very special uncle to his nephews and nieces. They delighted in his varied musical tastes and his great enthusiasm when discussing the finer points of a certain musical genre. He also loved the theatre and was known for his fine thespian performances in Woodbury. In fact, it was his enthusiasm for life that made him such good company. His wide-ranging interests included bird watching, observing wildlife, walking and flying — particularly in veteran aircraft. He also had a love of cars and their newly-introduced gadgets where his enthusiasm knew no bounds, particularly in his own car! He is, and will be, sorely missed. Margaret Wilson Here’s Roger in the picture, downing a welcome pint of ale after a challenging walk in Spanish mountains. I remember Roger for many reasons, not least as an infinitely superior tennis partner. But most of all I recall his good company at concerts, theatres, on walks and holidays — in particular, acting with him in many Woodbury am-dram productions, my favourite being when, as his rather nasty wife, I got to throw my whole plate of food all over his nice clean suit at a fancy restaurant! Val Arndt WOODBURY HISTORY SOCIETY AGM 1 FEBRUARY, 19.30 WOODBURY VILLAGE HALL Including a presentation on Woodbury churchyard records by Chris Sheppard and Jim Champion. Refreshments to follow.
27 GULLIFORD BURIAL GROUND WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD Gulliford Burial Ground wins the prestigious ‘Most Original’ award in the 2023 Devon's Best Churchyard Competition run by Devon CPRE. Gulliford Burial Ground was one of 26 entrants in the competition and the award was accompanied with the judges’ statement: This is a surprisingly delightful small burial ground, beautifully and informatively managed. Located just off the main road in a tranquil spot, it could be easily missed by passing traffic, which is probably an advantage. The noticeboard next to the entrance is clear and explanatory, inviting the casual observer to view a video online for added detail. Attention is drawn to a ‘horse mounting block’ provided to assist ‘gentlemen’ in gaining access to the saddle. A map of the graveyard was displayed and throughout the grounds a series of well-constructed and clearly displayed noticeboards provided historical data concerning both the grounds and the reason for their existence. Bird and bat boxes were noted, a gravel path provided easy access and elsewhere some innovative bug boxes were strategically placed to encourage insects. Wild flowers had been planted where once stood two chapels, long since demolished, and provision for reptiles and amphibians through rock piles and grass heaps has been made. A bench was provided overlooking a small wild flower meadow. Management of the site is undertaken by a group specifically set up to raise funds, restoration and planting involving local school children and adults alike. Heritage Lottery Funding was secured and the vision of those caring for this site is commendable – it was a pleasure to visit.
More information about this historic site in our parish can be found on the Friends of Gulliford Burial Ground website https://fogbg.org.uk/ and the video can be viewed at https://youtu.be/Gl09leMnNyI. Cllr Ken Perry Gulliford Joint Committee representative for Woodbury Parish Council
28 RSPB AYLESBEARE RESERVE All change on Aylesbeare and Harpford Common as 2023 draws to a close, with all the livestock involved in the heath’s management on the move. Many thanks go to our 30-strong herd of cattle that have been on the commons since June. These cows are now back on Dartmoor, with 21 Dartmoor/Exmoor ponies having mobilised for their return to Aylesbeare from various sites throughout Devon. Six Exmoors are back from nearby Manor Common and four have come in from RSPB Withycombe Raleigh Common in the south. Eleven Dartmoors have also returned from their summer holiday in the Blackdown Hills, with the RSPB Aylesbeare team assisting in the management of the turbaries owned by Stockland Parish Council. 2023 has been a difficult year in terms of flooding, with this article being penned just off the back of storms Babet and Ciaran, both of which brought huge amounts of rainfall to the Otter River catchment. The flood of 9 May where over 30mm of rain fell in just two hours — must also get a special mention, particularly as a demonstration of the kind of weather events that will become more frequent in a warming world. As weather systems increase their ability to hold and discharge more rain, these flood events highlight the importance of managing land sympathetically for wildlife. The wet heathlands and mires of Aylesbeare Common and the wider Pebblebed Heaths help decrease surface runoff and erosion, and slow the flow of water. Their peaty soils act like sponges and the heathland vegetation – of dwarf shrubs, grasses and trees – holds rain above the ground. Good news comes from the growing number of tree-planting schemes becoming available to local parish councils throughout East Devon and the wider county. We were invited by Newton Poppleford parish to get involved with their tree-planting project in February, which they were able to do with funding from East Devon District Council and the AONB. This was facilitated by Keith Rennells and the ParkLife Southwest initiative to improve tree cover within the village. 16,500 trees were also planted in Devon last winter through the Emergency Tree Fund granted by The Woodland Trust. And the Devon Wildlife Trust continue with their ‘Saving Devon’s Treescapes’ initiative to help combat the loss of ash trees in the landscape due to ash dieback. Furthermore, down at the Lower Otter Restoration Project (LORP), the breach of the embankment has finally taken place and the transformation of that area is truly inspiring — something to watch becoming established year by year. The possibilities for birdlife and other wildlife on the estuary now are extremely exciting. In other good news, 2023 brought terrific hay yields on RSPB-managed grasslands. We still have hay bales available for sale, with delivery or collection in time for Christmas. If interested, please get in touch at the email address on the next page.
29 RSPB Aylesbeare would like to give special thanks to our weekly volunteers whose work has, as ever, been integral to the management of the reserve this year. Our work is varied, not always sticking to standard work-party fodder, and it changes throughout the year. There is room for all sorts of skills and ideas. So, if you are looking for a new activity for the New Year and want to contribute to the conservation of Aylesbeare Common and the RSPB’s wider mission to secure a viable future for the UK’s wildlife (and if you enjoy working in the outdoors and getting stuck in), then come down to a volunteering session. Work-parties happen on Wednesdays and Thursdays every week (or a more laid-back monthly session on a Sunday). Please email for further information. Happy Christmas! Michael S, residential volunteer - aylesbeare.common@rspb.org.uk FUNDRAISING EVENT SAUSAGE AND MASH SATURDAY 27 JANUARY 2024, 19.00 WOODBURY VILLAGE HALL Rhys Mcgauley (Cheryl Mcgauley’s son) is running 12 marathons, one of them being the London Marathon in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity. Bar available, vegetarian and coeliac diets catered for. Tickets £10 will be available from December Book tickets from Cheryl 07786 706546 / 01395 232057 cheryl@woodburybreakers.co.uk Chris Lear 07941 045918 / 01395 232772 / chrisalear06@gmail.com
WEATHER REPORT FOR OCTOBER The lasting memory of October is of a very wet month, total rainfall 135mm (5.3ins). However, the first ten days were warm and sunny, summer again but with shorter days. Rain arrived — in the second week 1.1ins, in the third week 1.0ins, and finally a further 3.1ins to the end of the month, here at Ebford. Over the years 4ins of rain in October is quite common, possibly due to warmer sea temperatures at this time of the year. In fact the average amount here for the last five years is 129mm (5.1ins). November seems to be starting in much the same vein.
Norman Cann
30
Colin and Lin Ashby send greetings and best wishes for 2024 to all friends and neighbours in Woodbury who have been such a support in recent months. We will be making a donation in lieu of cards to Hope4Kibera. Sue Bury sends Christmas greetings and best wishes for a peaceful and healthy New Year to her local friends. Instead of cards, she will be supporting ShelterBox. Anna and Paul Crafer wish all their friends and neighbours a happy and healthy Christmas. We are making a donation to WLAC instead of cards. Gordon Davis wishes all his friends and neighbours a Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. Instead of sending Christmas cards locally, he will be making a donation to Budleigh Salterton & District Hospiscare. Peter and Christine Grist wish all their friends, neighbours and aquaintances a very merry, blessed and joyful Christmas and a happy, peaceful and healthy New Year. A donation in lieu of Christmas cards will be given to Devon Air Ambulance. John and Elspeth Fisher wish all their neighbours and friends a Very Merry Christmas and All Good Health and Happiness in 2024. In lieu of cards, a donation to Médecins Sans Frontières. Phil Dent and Terrie Newman would like to wish all their friends and neighbours in Woodbury Salterton and Woodbury, a very merry Christmas 2023 and a happy and rewarding 2024! We will be making a donation in lieu of sending cards to 'Crisis at Xmas' charity. Ian Graham and family would like to send Christmas greetings and very best wishes for a happy and healthy 2024 to all their kind and supportive neighbours and friends in Woodbury. We will, as always, be making a donation to FORCE in lieu of cards. Chris Lear and family wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year. They will be donating to FORCE in lieu of cards.
31 Joyce and Mike Jeans would like to wish their friends and neighbours, in and around Woodbury, a peaceful and happy Christmas and New Year. Thank you also for helping to make this community a lovely place in which to live. In lieu of cards we are making a donation to ShelterBox. Julie and John Maidment wish all their friends in the parish an enjoyable Christmas and a healthy New Year. A donation will be sent to Hospiscare in lieu of sending cards. Derrick and Marian Mead wish every one in Woodbury a happy, and healthy Christmas, and a Peaceful New Year. We will be sending a donation to the International Committee of the Red Cross, and locally to St Petroc’s for homeless people in Exeter. Tricia Willey wishes all friends who have made her so welcome in Woodbury a very happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year. Donation made to Cancer Research UK.
COFFEE AND CAKE EVERY 3RD TUESDAY, 10.00 - 12.00 CHURCH ROOMS, WOODBURY All the coffee mornings will raise money for local charities. All are welcome. Contact Di Phaby 07933 787055
WOODBURY NEWS to your door … If you are a new resident to the area, or would like your Woodbury News to be delivered to your door monthly, just call Chris Bowers on 01395 239338 or email chrisbowers88@yahoo.co.uk and she will put you in contact with your local deliverer. Any queries regarding delivery of Woodbury News within Exton to be directed to Ann Morris on 01392 875666.
32 ORIGIN OF NAMES OF LANES IN WOODBURY VILLAGE (PART 1) This is a potted history of the names of some of the lanes in the village of Woodbury – many of the modern roads have taken their names from former residents of the parish, such as those in the Golden Heart. If anyone has any further information about the lanes, it would be much appreciated. A further article will give the origins of lanes in the rest of the parish. Not all the roads have been included as the names are self-evident. Bonfire Lane This lane is shown on the earliest map extant for the parish, dating to about 1798. At this period it was the lane which divided the land of Mrs Lempriere (being part of Thorn Farm which was owned by the owner of Woodbury House) and the Portlea Orchard belonging to Hunts Farm, and continuing down to Greenway between Hunts Farm and Haydons Cottages. There is no record of a name for this lane until some time in the 20 th century, though the field which was part of the present Pathfields and allotments was called Bonfire in the tithe map of 1839, but in 1796 the field was called Best Lear (possibly a corruption of Best Lea). Broadway The road is named in early documents and was always the major road though the village from East Budleigh to Exeter. It has been altered over the years, and in 1855 several cottages which jutted out into the highway were pulled down, and the road was then widened. Castle Lane The name of this road from Greenway to Woodbury Common is self evident as it leads to the Iron Age Fort known as Woodbury Castle. This lane would have been very busy as it led to the pastures on Woodbury Common where, from an early date, many of the farmers were allowed to graze their animals. The Castle was also used for military musters from the 16th century and the whole area became encampments for large numbers of troops during the Napoleonic Wars and through to the present times. Church Stile Lane This lane is named after the ancient thatched cottages which were originally called Church Stile Farm, an important freehold farm with an interesting history. The lands of the farm stretched from Oakhayes Road, alongside Globe Hill, down to the Arch. The significance of the name was because the gates into the churchyard from the farm were known as ‘stiles’ as recorded in the Churchwardens’ Accounts. Cottles Lane The road leading from Parsonage Way to join Castle Lane by Cottles Farm is named after Thomas Cottle who was the tenant at Purcombes, a cottage with three acres of land. This did not become a farm until the end of the 19th century when other fields from non-functioning small farms were added, and by the end of the 20 th century it had acquired the lands of Ford Farm making it a farm of over 200 acres.
33 Culvery Close This close was built on the lands of an old farm known as Smiths or Hunts. In the 1860s a new farmhouse was built and the farm took over the lands of the farm opposite it in the village and acquired its name, Webbers Farm. In the 1980s the farm was considered unsuitable for the middle of a busy village and was moved to Castle Lane. The land was sold to a developer, and the close of houses built on it was known as Culvery Close. The reason for the name was because the field across the stream on which Fairfield House had been built was originally part of Thorn Farm and known as Culvery Field. The first Fairfield House was originally called Mount Culvery by which name it was known for a few years. Culvery is indicative of doves, and it is possible that this field was the area where the Lord of the Manor in the medieval period kept his dovecotes – only the aristocracy and gentry were allowed to keep the birds. Gilbrook Way and Venmore Way In 1695 both lanes are recorded in the Manor Court when farmers whose land lay beside the lanes were prosecuted for allowing them to become flooded. The farmers from the Venmore farms were taken before the Justices on several occasions for causing flooding on the road preventing its use by the locals. The Gilbrook was the name of the stream which runs down from the common and goes under the road, flowing down to Exton. Venmore was written as ‘Fenmore’ in some early documents, a word which implies wet land. Globe Hill This lane takes its name from the Globe Inn which was built between 1650 and 1700. The Inn was in a prime position being on the road from Exmouth to Exeter and, with its large rooms and skittle alley, a favourite spot for entertainment and hospitality. Sadly it was burnt to the ground in 1916 and the ground has remained empty ever since. Haywards/Heavis Lane and Pollards Lane In 1804 two fields belonging to Hunts Farm were sold by the Rolle Estate, one being called Heavis Lane Close (otherwise Haywards Lane Close), which appears to have given its name to the lane. In 1859 it was sold again and at this time was known as Green Field (Heavis Lane Close) or Haywards Close, adjoining the turnpike road between the Globe and the village of Woodbury. Haywards Lane appears to be the earlier name for the lower part of Globe Hill, but the origin is unknown. It is mentioned in the Manor Court of 1624 and 1626 when a parishioner was fined for not cleaning out his ditch in Haywards Lane, and also for cutting an embankment on Pollards Lane. Since this man owned land adjoining both lanes, presumably they were in the same area. Lamb Park The name Lamb Park arose because it is the old lane leading to the tithe barn, at the back of Parsonage, which was demolished in the 1840s. The two fields on the west of the lane opposite the turning to Pound Lane were known as Higher and Lower Lamb Park. When tithes were paid in kind the lambs would have been kept in these fields until they were sold. cont’d/...
34 ORIGIN OF NAMES OF LANES IN WOODBURY VILLAGE cont’d/... After the Act of 1836, when all tithes were collected in money, the ancient tithe barn became redundant and was demolished, and the stones were taken to Woodbury Salterton to be used in the construction of the new church there. Lane without a name The lane which runs from Bonfire Lane to Mirey Lane never seems to have had a name, though a well-known local parishioner affirms that it was known to locals as ‘Stinky Lane’. There was no dwelling house in this lane until the 1970s when a small bungalow, called Byways, was built on a plot of land to the north of the brook (also nameless, but known at one point as ‘the sewer’). The lane is shown in the early maps as a division between the lands of Culvery Field and the lands belonging to the Vicars Choral (the Beales Estate). It appears to have been a boundary marker between the freehold estates of Thorn Farm, Hunts Farm and the Beales Estate. Mirey Lane This name appears to be taken from the wet and muddy area of the lane as it joined Church Lane – the brook went across the road at this point and a small bridge had been built to take people across the water. This also was a boundary lane dividing the lands of the Beales Estate from those of Thorn Farm, and the New House on the Green (later Berry’s garage). Oakhayes Road The road leading from Bonfire Lane to the Exeter Road was so named as there were oak trees growing there. They must have been there for a very long time and were a feature of the area as the area of the crossroads there was called Okeys Cross, according to documents of the 17 th century. Parsonage Way This is the road that continues from Greenway towards Woodbury Salterton as far as the Parsonage. There had been a parsonage on the site of the present Parsonage House for hundreds of years. By the 19 th century it was in a derelict condition and was pulled down in the 1850s to make way for the new Parsonage built for and by the vicar, the Reverend John Loveband Fulford. Pound Lane This lane stretches from the turning off Oakhayes Lane and Bonfire Lane going towards Parsonage and turning right to the junction with Parsonage Way at the old Pound. It is not known how long the Pound had been at this spot, as an earlier one had been on the Green Spot – possibly they were both in use since there were so many animals and farms within and around the village itself. Gill Selley Ed: This article will be continued next month and will include more lanes in Woodbury village, as well as the origins of the lanes in the rest of the parish.
35
BUSINESS ADVERTISEMENTS WOODBURY EVENTS TEAM For Hire. Gazebos, Chairs, Crockery, wine glasses, tumblers, champagne glasses, KFS Cake stands, Brick wall which helps to raise money, £1 a brick Bunting. Contact Chris Lear 07941 045918 chrislear06@gmail.com (1/6) CARPENTER Chris Isaac Property Maintenance, Kitchens, Doors, Flooring, Fencing, Fascias/Guttering, Tiling, General Repairs. Free Estimates. Reliable tradesman. 07855170674/01395 233933 chrisisaaccarpenter@gmail.com. (8/12) BED AND BREAKFAST Peaceful location situated in Exton. Website riverdownbedandbreakfast.co.uk. Please contact Tim on 07779 715222 or email timdashwood@yahoo.co.uk (9/12) ACCOUNTS AND TAX SERVICE Sole Trades, Partnerships, Limited Companies and Personal Tax. Full range of advice. Fixed fee plans and free initial consultation/quotation. Wheelers Accountants. Tel: 233184. (10/24) BEE SWARMS COLLECTED FREE OF CHARGE Also cash paid for unwanted bee keeping equipment - hives, tools, smokers, clothing etc. Call Nigel Moore on 07815 514997. Email:nigemoore007@gmail.com. (10/12) RUBBISH REMOVALS Domestic and Commercial. Environment Agency licensed. No job too small. Tel: 07979 841376. www.rubbishremovalsexeter.com. (19/24) ALTERATIONS TO LADIES AND GENTS WEAR, MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS AND ROMAN BLINDS, ALTERATIONS TO CURTAINS. Contact Shirley on 01395 223523. (12/12) ELECTRICIAN James Sliman Local, reliable, fully qualified and experienced. NAPIT registered and insured. From a socket to rewire 01395 276323 07866 313812 www.jslimanelectrician.co.uk. (4/12) HOME HELP Mrs V. A. Perry: Experienced, reliable. Support with transport to social/community events, trips out/medical appointments. Support with shopping, household management. Companion service. DBS Enhanced Certificate, Insurance and references available. For a confidential, no obligation discussion of your individual needs and requirements ring 01395 232865 (2/6)
36 24 Nov. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 12 Dec. 14 Dec. 15 Dec. 17 Dec. 21 Dec. 21 Dec. 23 Dec. 24 Dec. 2024 23 Jan. 27 Jan. 1 Feb. 8 Feb. 9 March 30 June
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Children’s film night. Holy Trinity Church, WS. Exton Garden Club. Dahlia Mania by Bella Given. 14.00, EVH. Start of Woodbury Living Advent Calendar. Connections Christmas meal, Maltsters, 19.00. Garden Club Christmas meal at the Maltsters.19.00. Woodbury Craft Group. 10.00-12.30. Christ Church. St Swithun’s Winter Fair. 09.30-12.30. Woodbury C of E Primary School Open Morning. 10.00-12.00. Christmas Concert. St Swithun’s Church, 19.00. Woodbury Camera Club Social. WI Christmas Lunch at the Maltsters. Exton Christmas Party at the Puffing Billy. Carols on the Green. Woodbury. 18.30. Carols around Woodbury village. Meet 19.00 by the Green. Carol Singing in WS village, 18.00. Lympstone Mummers in Woodbury, 17.00 at the White Hart, 17.30 at the Maltsters. Reveal of Advent Windows, Church Rooms, 17.30. Woodbury Twinning Association AGM. 19.30. Church Rooms. Sausage and Mash. 19.00, WVH. Woodbury History Society AGM. 19.30, WVH. Woodbury Golf Society Annual Dinner. The Maltsters. Woodbury Handbell Ringers 4-course Italian Meal. 19.00 WVH. FORCE Cancer Charity. The Nello. Bide Ride & Festival. FUNDRAISING EVENT WOODBURY HANDBELL RINGERS FOUR COURSE ITALIAN MEAL SATURDAY 9 MARCH 2024, 19.00 WOODBURY VILLAGE HALL £15. Vegetarian / Coeliac catered for. Bar available. Tickets will be available in 2024 from Chris Lear.
Have you got an interesting photo to illustrate your article? If so, we'd love to see it, but please remember that we need high resolution photos - not too dark, but clear and sharp - as low resolution photos do not reproduce well on non-photographic paper. Please remember to ask permission from any people included in your photos, and that photos of children require parental permission. Send all submissions to karensquires100@gmail.com.
37
WOODBURY NEWS
POTTERY CHRISTMAS PLATTER WORKSHOP IN WOODBURY
SMALL ADS: (3 lines) private £2.00. (3 lines) Business £5.00. (£50.00 p.a.)
Try your hand at Pottery by hand-building decorative stoneware platters for Christmas. Suitable for all abilities £35 - Includes tuition, materials, glaze and two firings. Coffee and tea provided. Contact Bernice: 07494 502726/ email Bernice.fynn@gmail.com
ADVERTISING RATES
DISPLAY ADS: £20.00 ¼ page (£200 p.a.) £50.00 ½ page (£500 p.a.) To: Karen Squires 233299 karensquires100@gmail.com The Woodbury News accepts no liability for:- i) Any claims made by the advertiser; ii) Any errors or omissions in the advertisement as submitted by the advertiser; iii) Any legal action as a result of the advertisement.
Morning classes (10.00-13.00) 6, 7, 13 & 14 December Evening classes (18.30-21.30) 7 December BEGINNERS POTTERY CLASSES STARTING 24 & 25 JAN. 2024
Willow Hair and Wellbeing offers a place of calm within its green and botanical environment. We specialise in hair services offering professional service using eco conscious products to create hair that you are proud to wear. Our team are passionate about their education to always be at the top of the craft. We welcome Abi back from maternity leave working Tuesday 9.00-5.00pm. We also have two new hair stylists, Lena and Hayley, both very experienced in colour and cutting. We have therapy rooms offering a range of services: manicure and pedicures, massage and laser hair removal. Our address: The Retreat Stores, The Arch, Woodbury Our telephone: 01395 233844 Website: www.willowhairandwellbeing.co.uk Email: info@willowhairandwellbeing.co.uk Online bookings available through our website Willowhairandwellbeing on instagram or FB
38
Further to many recent enquiries:
Robert Miller Local Painter & Decorator of many years, is still in business. A lifetime of experience! All painting and decorating jobs considered. Contact Bob on
01395 233773 or 07800 854839 THORNS COTTAGE, WOODBURY
39
Woodbury Village Hall Hall and two meeting rooms, Fully equipped kitchen WIFI, sound system and projector Available for: Dances and Parties Meetings and Classes Exhibitions and Craft Fairs Badminton, Plays, Business Lettings
Woodbury Salterton Village Hall Hall –Tables and Chairs, Well equipped kitchen with cooker and fridge, crockery and cutlery inclusive in hire. Modest Rates.
For bookings please contact: Robin or Marian Lennox Tel: 01395 232126
For bookings please contact:
email:- woodburyvh@gmail.com www.woodburyvillagehall.org
Pat or Gill Bricknell 01395 232463
40
Royal Academy of Dance and IDTA Ballet grades and majors Start to Dance from from 2½ years Dottie Markham RAD CBTS Frankie Rowsell RAD CBTS Tel: 07885829531 Tel: 07713243369 woodburydancestudio @outlook.com Classes at Woodbury C of E Primary School
41
WOODBURY GARAGE Local family business
MOTS SERVICE REPAIRS ALL MAKES & MODELS ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS
The Arch, Woodbury EX5 1LL woodburygarage@hotmail.co.uk
T: 01395 233004 M: 07527 125956
42
Welcoming New Patients A friendly, caring practice providing the very latest treatment techniques, in a relaxed setting:
Routine dental care with oral health assessment
Cosmetic dental treatments including whitening, implants, veneers
Crowns made on the day of your visit, with no need for impressions!!
Facial Rejuvenation treatment Discreet clinics now available. Speak to our friendly team.
Tel: 01395 442552
www.budleighdentalpractice.co.uk
43
STEAM PRISTINE Is green
General Quality Building Service
Pristine eco cleaning of:-
* New builds & Extensions
Patios, stone brick or concrete paths & driveways. Removal of algae, moss & fungi.
* Brickwork & Block work
The surface being cleaned does not suffer any damaging pressure, thermal shock or deep saturation. Uses minimum water, eco friendly and dries within minutes.
* Drives & Patios * All types of building work undertaken !!
For more details and free quote
01395 911397 or 07751 738092
Phone:- 07765 240245
T.D. BUILDERS
* Rendering & Plastering
FREE ESTIMATES
44