WOODBURY NEWS
OCTOBER 2020
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OCTOBER 2020 EDITORIAL It seems almost unbelievable that six months have passed since we all became aware of the words coronavirus and Covid-19. Six months where the population initially faced the loneliness of lockdown, businesses struggled (some, sadly, unsuccessfully) to cope with staff working from home, some facing furlough or even redundancy, sickness, hospitalisation and worse, home-schooling – and Woodbury News only available online. We remain very grateful to the volunteer band of distributers who are this month again taking up delivery of the October edition, and grateful too to readers who passed on, to those unfamiliar with the internet, copies and articles that they printed out themselves. Woodbury News board of directors would particularly like to thank Paul McLoughlin, who keeps residents of Exton in the know. As I write, we have entered a period of ‘Rule of Six’- restrictions in England as to the number of people who are legally allowed to meet together, inside or outside. I wonder whether this will have changed in one month’s time? In the meantime, we are delighted to pass on the good news in the following paragraph from Jeremy Boyden, Chair of the Board of Directors. Collection of Woodbury News subscriptions postponed until summer 2021 Many Woodbury News subscribers have been able to keep in touch with the news through our online editions which we have continued to publish each month throughout the coronavirus disruption. We suspended the print edition in April when it became clear that the restrictions would prevent our volunteer network from continuing with deliveries. We acknowledge that many have missed the print copies dropping through their letterboxes, so we will be delaying the collection of 2021 subscriptions for six months and will collect the annual subscription next May/June. This will give our loyal subscribers six free months which, we hope, will go some way to compensate for the suspension of the print version over the summer. The cover photograph is of the winning cricket team (see pages 8 and 9).
4 ST SWITHUN’S CHURCH, WOODBURY Vicar: Reverend Bill Lemmey 01395 232161 Email: revbillwhitecross@gmail.com Administrator: Jill Dupain dupain@hotmail.co.uk OCTOBER SERVICES at Woodbury and Exton Sunday 4 October - Harvest Festival, Holy Communion at 11.15. Evening Worship at Exton 18.30. Sunday 11 October at Exton, Holy Communion 09.30. Sunday 18 October Evening Prayer 18.30. Sunday 25 October. All age worship 09.30. There will be online Zoom services each Sunday at 11.30. To obtain a link for this, please email dupain@hotmail.co.uk. For October services throughout the Mission Community please see the church notice boards and the Mission Community website: http:// whitecrosschurches.org.uk/ Further information will be available 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 Mike and Joyce Jeans celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on 10 September - many congratulations! For your special event, contact Mike Jeans 01395 232544. Floodlight dedications are displayed on the church noticeboard at the lych gate, and normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.
WOODBURY NEWS 2020 CLOSING DATES 20 OCTOBER. 17 NOVEMBER. 8 DECEMBER. 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
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6 CHURCH PRODUCE STALL A produce stall has been held at the lych gate of the church for the past few weeks and as a result a significant amount has been raised for church funds. As well as providing delicious fresh fruit and vegetables for villagers, there has been the opportunity to socialise (at a distance) something that has been sadly lacking for six months. Nat and Val Bradley did regular baking of pies, pasties and eccles cakes, which they sold pre-ordered to villagers, raising several hundreds of pounds. Debby Mullier sold plants from home and from the stall to benefit church funds and the local Food Bank. Linda Freeman bagged and sold luxury stationery items, adding to the overall amount raised. It seemed that a bit of normality could be enjoyed for an hour or so on a Saturday morning. Unfortunately recent new government regulations mean that a stall is no longer possible. The organisers will keep the situation under review in the hope that one day in the future the lych gate will again be a focus of village life. Lin Ashby CHARITY COFFEE MORNINGS The Charity coffee mornings are still unable to open due to social distancing, which is sad. It would be lovely to see everyone together again but due to the size of the Church Rooms this is going to continue to be a problem for the foreseeable future. We had some charity money left over so we have made donations to Wild Woodbury, The Hive and also to the Church Rooms to help keep all of them going at this difficult time. Stay safe and we hope to see you once we can reopen. The Coffee Morning Team
7 CORNERSTONES On Monday 24 August a dozen of the men's social group accepted an invitation from Chris Lear to a cream tea on the village green. The weather forecast was fine for the afternoon. However, soon after three the rain started. ‘Not to worry', as a couple of gazebos quickly appeared to cover those not already sheltering under the trees! This did not dampen the spirits as everyone enjoyed the delicious scones, clotted cream and strawberry jam, as well as a natter with some of the ladies from Connections. There was no problem in observing social distancing as there was plenty of room on the green! A big thank-you to Chris and her helpers for the tea. It was good to have this get-together in the community and just as we were thinking that, maybe, it was the beginning of green shoots of change, the government introduced the ‘Rule of 6’, so we will have to wait and see. Derrick Mead WOODBURY DANCE STUDIO The start of term is here and I am full of trepidation. However, I have great trust in my students and parents and so I anticipate no major problems. We have gel, wipes, spots for the younger children to sit on, notices for the loos …… but most of all we have hope and enthusiasm! See you soon. Mary Griffiths WOODBURY AND DISTRICT ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Plans are being put in place for Remembrance at the beginning of November. Woodbury Branch will be putting out our static poppy collection boxes from launch day - 22 October. The boxes will have the 2020 poppy pins in them and also some VE Day pins on request for a small donation. Please get in touch with me to have one delivered: 01395 232696. The annual AGM will still take place in a different format, details in November Woodbury News. The Remembrance service on the village green will be on Sunday 8 November at 14.45. Michael Owen will play The Last Post and Reveille social distancing still in force, but we managed it well for VE and VJ Days. There will be a short Act of Remembrance on the village green on 11 November at 11.00. A generous donation from Roger Stokes, from the sale of his latest book on the history of Woodbury, will be put towards our Branch Community Support Fund. Sandra Huish (Chairman) 01395 232696 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.
8 WOODBURY CRICKET CLUB On 15 August, the 1st XI travelled to Upottery, who had beaten Woodbury at Town Lane two weeks previously, so a win was essential to stand any chance of topping the group. Upottery won the toss and elected to bat in damp, overcast conditions. It proved to be a mistake, as Nalin Chouhan delivered a devasting spell of swing-bowling, claiming 7-27 including a hattrick, and Upottery were all out for 97. Woodbury stuttered in reply, but a 67 run 4th wicket partnership between George Jarman (55) and Chouhan (25) saw the visiting side home with maximum points. Such an emphatic win against their nearest rivals could prove crucial to Woodbury’s chances of finishing in first place. On 22 August, the 1st XI hosted Sampford Peverell and Tiverton. This time, Woodbury were put in to bat on a damp wicket, but it didn’t seem to trouble their top order, who all contributed. George Jarman (66) and Ross Jarvis (62) top scored in a total of 227-4. In reply, Sampford Peverell never came close to winning and finished on 158-4. James Plowman, Daniel Alford and Mukesh Purohit each took one wicket, and Jarman effected a run out. On 29 August, the 2nd XI travelled up to Kentisbeare to play their penultimate league match of this truncated season. Skipper for the day Andy Cork was in two minds whether to bat or bowl first after looking at the damp pitch pre-match, but by cleverly losing the toss he avoided having to make that tricky decision. Woodbury were invited to bat first, and Ed Salter and Max Weston made a cautious start against some accurate bowling. After negotiating the first few overs, they steadily upped the run rate despite Salter pulling a muscle and having to have a runner. He got to 29 before falling to a good catch to end an opening partnership of 69. Paul McCutchion came in and set about the bowling for a brisk 27 until he was very LBW to one that kept low. This was the first of three wickets for just 12 runs, but this slight wobble was headed off as Weston accelerated past his first 50 for the club. He and Olly Brealy put on 54 for the 5th wicket in double quick time before a lofted shot from Weston was well held and he had to depart for an excellent 82. Brealy (14), Chris Collyer (9) and Cork (11 not out) hit some quick late runs to make sure of maximum batting points and a final score of 217-7 in their 35 overs. This was a good score, but with some small boundaries and an attacking mindset, Kentisbeare were always in with a shout. Brealy followed up his handy runs with a wicket in his second over, but apart from that, he and fellow opening bowler Tom Dowle got no reward for their tidy bowling. Cork turned to McCutchion and he obliged with a double wicket maiden to peg the home side back. Again, Kentisbeare counter attacked but Jo Moretta came into the attack and picked up wickets at regular intervals to keep Woodbury on top.
9 He was a bit greedy though, clean bowling four batsmen and taking a catch off his own bowling to finish with 5-26 off his 7-over spell. McCutchion picked up another wicket to finish with 3-33, and the final wicket was a second excellent stumping by wicketkeeper Chris Alford, as Kentisbeare were all out for 183, to leave Woodbury the victors by 34 runs. The final game of the regular season saw the 1st XI host Seaton, with Woodbury and Newton St Cyres needing at least 17 points to top their group. For the second week in a row, Woodbury lost the toss and were put in to bat on a damp wicket. Runs from Steve Boundy (42), Martin Pearce (29) and Shenan Grossberg (24) ensured Woodbury reached a competitive 171-9 in their 35 overs. In reply, Seaton finished on 111-8, with two wickets each for Mukesh Purohit (2-13), Pearce (2-16) and Becca Silk (219), ensuring Woodbury earned 18 points and won their division. In the play-offs, the 1st XI travelled to Lustleigh, a picturesque ground in the middle of Dartmoor. It is also quite a small ground and Lustleigh, asked to bat first, posted an impressive 204-5 from 35 overs. Nalin Chouhan was the pick of the bowlers, conceding only ten runs in his 7-overs spell. In reply, Woodbury lost wickets regularly and were all out for 99, James Plowman top scoring with 31. It was a disappointing end to an otherwise successful season for the 1st XI. The 2nd XI played their play-off final against Plympton 3rd Xl at Town Lane on Saturday 12th September. The weather was warm, and the sun was out. Woodbury won the toss and decided to bowl. Plympton boasted an exPremier player and Devon representatives in their ranks. A tidy opening spell from Dave Church and Tommy “hips� Dowle contained the excellent Willock who would later get his century. Good ground fielding and accurate bowling contained Plympton to 174 for 6. A mention must go to the youngsters, Olly Brealey and Matthew Moretta, who bowled really well in the middle overs. The Woodbury reply started poorly, and they were soon 15 for 2 but excellent partnerships between Andy Smale and Max Weston steadied the ship and made sure the run rate never climbed above five an over. Another mini flurry of wickets brought Andy Cork and Dave Church together for another 50-partnership, full over quick singles and boundaries. Once more a flurry of three wickets fell and with five overs left the game could have gone either way. Olly Brealey and Matthew Moretta ran hard and reduced the total needed to 15 off three overs, when young Olly was caught. In strode Moretta senior but he need not have bothered with his pads as young Matthew hit three fours and a couple of singles to give Woodbury and Newton St Cyres a win by two wickets. An excellent game played in great spirit by both teams. Shenan Grossberg
10 WOODBURY GARDEN CLUB After the weeks of lockdown and many changes of rules regarding numbers of people at gatherings, Woodbury Garden Club members were pleased to be able to attend a club meeting on Tuesday 8 September, in the village hall. It was good to meet friends again and enjoy an evening out together. Twenty members, one speaker and one visitor attended the meeting, all sitting safely distanced and wearing masks. If any complaints were made they were related to the hard seats, and suggestions were made to bring cushions next time! The speaker, Caradoc Doy, came from Topsham to give us ideas and suggestions about useful plants to use in shady areas. He illustrated his talk with a series of photographs, which included evergreen ferns, aucuba japonica, hellebores, hydrangeas, cranesbill geraniums, camellias, pulmonarias, to name a few. All of us must have gained some ideas of plants to use in those awkward areas we all have. This meeting was only possible due to the general organisation by the hall committee, and particularly the hard work of our club secretary, Debby Mullier, who has kept us all informed of events and regulations during lockdown, as well as organising various moveable plant sales. Very many thanks are due to all these people and to the Garden Club committee for setting up the hall for the meeting. We hope we will be able to meet in the hall again for our October meeting when the speaker will be Micky Little, from Avon Bulbs in Somerset. He plans to talk about roses. Please check our website to see if this meeting is going ahead. Marian Mead
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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: Anna Crafer, 15 Haymans Orchard, Woodbury. Tel: 232007
11 THE FRIENDS OF WOODBURY SURGERY (FOWS) We’d like to bring you up-to-date on what’s been happening during the Covid-19 crisis, and what the future plans for The Friends of Woodbury Surgery (FOWS) are likely to be. During the lockdown period, we had a fantastic group of extra volunteers from the villages of the parish, helping to deliver medications, doing shopping, posting letters and delivering papers to those who were unable to get about or who had to shield. Now that the restrictions are being gradually eased, we, in consultation with the doctors, have reduced the list of those we helped initially — about 150 — to a smaller list of those who still need our help, now around 30. At the same time, many of the community support volunteers have gone back to work and are no longer able to help out. We are so pleased to have been able to offer FOWS as a coordinating ‘umbrella’ for the lockdown support in Woodbury, Woodbury Salterton and Exton (and also some outlying areas), and extremely grateful to all those who volunteered their services and help. It was, and still is, an amazing community effort. The rules on social distancing and safeguarding mean that we are not, for the foreseeable future, able to offer our previous service of driving patients to hospital or surgery appointments. This means that our current service is primarily to deliver medications, and help with shopping or paper deliveries. We will review this as the situation develops and the fallout from Covid-19 settles. Finally, a word on the FOWS phone. Unfortunately, there seems to have been a glitch from the service providers, which meant that our answerphone message was deleted. We hope that this problem has now been rectified. The number to ring is still the same: 01395 206123, and a new FOWS message is in place. For some reason, this message now appears immediately you contact us – so you don’t, as before, have to wait for ten rings. This is a very good thing! Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help or support. Val Arndt (FOWS coordinator)
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
We are not listing any of the anticipated forthcoming events this month, and we will re-consider this decision for future editions of Woodbury News.
12 WOODBURY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL It was wonderful to be able to welcome all our children and families back to school in September. The classrooms and playground have been full of happy, smiling children with lots of excited laughter and chatter. Although we are still under certain restrictions, the children have been enjoying catching up with their friends, getting to know their new teachers and settling back into the routines of school. Although things are different they have quickly realised that the school is also still the same, with the same adults working here, the same classrooms and the same lovely place to be! The children have experienced some great ‘Wow’ moments to introduce them to their new learning topics, from exploring the grounds looking for frogs and insects, to making a digestive system, undertaking treasure hunts, to dissecting a heart!
Children in Oak class enjoying an artist treasure hunt in our forest school.
Maple class have loved learning about the digestive system!
Willow Classs on their Bug Hunt
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We have also welcomed our youngest pupils to school for the first time. They have settled in beautifully and have been enjoying making the most of the outdoors whilst the sun is still shining. I hope this issue finds the Woodbury community well and look forward to sharing our continued learning with you in the next issue. Gillian Pyle, Head of School
14 HOPE4KIBERA UPDATE We reported in the July edition that we had raised £4,000 from the Do 4, give 4 challenge during the Covid-19 pandemic. Following this, thanks to fantastic support and by direct giving to Hope4Kibera, we were able to send an amazing total of £11,000 to our partners in Kibera. This was enough to feed 690 starving families, 2,750 people, for a week. The Kenyan Government has closed schools until January 2021 but we are continuing to support our students, their families and neighbours in the slum. They have no work, very little money for food and precious little protection from Covid-19. Our partners Swahiba Network have been hugely grateful for the support that we have been able to give and we are delighted, through Hope4Kibera giving, to have been able to send further funds to honour the teachers’ contracts and pay them fully after their wages had been cut by 50%. The teachers are continuing to work to mentor and teach their students, both in their homes in the slum and also in the project offices. This means the students will not fall behind too much, even though it is something of an increased risk to the teachers.
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We are hoping to organise some routes for a sponsored bike ride in the Autumn, now that we are unable to hold any public events. Watch out for adverts and details.
Also we are selling greeting cards where 100% of profit goes to Hope4Kibera. ÂŁ1.50 each or packs of 4 for ÂŁ5.50, 7 for ÂŁ10. Please contact Anne Wynne on annewynne5@gmail.com. We only exist because of our generous supporters. The need goes on and so do our efforts to make a difference. If you are interested in helping transform the lives of these students, the contact and donation/regular giving details are on our website www.hope4kibera.org.uk. Thank you so much for making a difference and saving lives. Anne Wynne, Secretary
16 WOODBURY TENNIS CLUB The Tennis Club is thriving! We have more members than ever, 80 adults and 20 juniors. We cannot take on any new members from outside the parish of Woodbury. Since relaxation of the Covid rules, the club has been able to welcome members to club sessions, which have been well attended. As we have an ageing membership, the club has purchased a defibrillator which is on the outside of the hut and can be used by members of the public in trouble on the playing fields. The courts are being well used; our recommended coach, John Wingate, has had a good number of clients, so the general standard of play will improve. Due to the difficulties involved in travelling and entertaining visiting teams, we have not entered winter league teams this year, but hope to have full representation next summer. We were sorry to hear of the passing of Jan Cox, who had been a stalwart of the club, committee member, team captain and regular attender at club sessions. A number of club members were present to see her on her last journey from Cottles Lane. Pat Browne
WOODBURY PARISH COUNCIL Woodbury Parish Council Offices Greenside, Greenway, Woodbury EX5 1LP Tel: 01395 233791. Email: woodburyparishcouncil@gmail.com Woodbury Parish Council have continued their regular meetings via Zoom. We are slowly mastering the art and we are able to carry out most of our functions. Members of the public are welcome to join these meetings and speak in the public session if they wish. Our agendas are posted on our website or you can obtain a direct invite, via email, by contacting the Parish Council. Parish Council Grants: the Parish Council will be considering applications for funding from the Coombe Farm Solar Fund and the Community Grant Scheme again this year. Application forms can be found on the website or from the Parish Council Office. The closing date for applications is 31 October 2020 and applications will be considered at our meeting on 9 November 2020. Finally, we would like to welcome Cllr Philip Jordan to WPC as a councillor representing Exton. David Craig, Proper Officer, Clerk & RFO
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WOODBURY SALTERTON NEWS Back to normal pattern of church services We have now returned to our normal pattern of church services i.e. Holy Communion at 09.30 on the first Sunday of each month and family service on the third Sunday at 09.30, but no breakfast. We observe social distancing and wear masks. The choir are allowed to sing hymns but the congregation cannot do so at present. Church services and choir practices are exempt from the ‘Rule of 6’ gatherings. Open Garden for Hospiscare Gill and Patrick Bricknell opened their garden on Bank Holiday Monday in aid of Hospiscare and raised £200. WOODBURY SALTERTON C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL Both staff and children are thrilled to be back in school after such a long interruption to the children’s education. Staff worked hard over the summer to prepare for the safe re-opening of the school to all children since lockdown in the spring. There are adjustments for everyone to get used to, ensuring that everyone is kept safe and well, but it’s lovely to be fully open again and back together. We wish our new starters and their families a very warm welcome. We are a small school, but one where the achievements of every one of our children is important and valued. Staff and pupils alike are very happy to welcome new faces to our school community. You may remember that during lockdown when we were working in our coloured bubbles, Blue Bubble were learning about famous people. We talked about Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Victoria. This inspired the children to paint portraits of both queens. The results were so impressive that it was decided to send the lovely watercolours to Her Majesty the Queen. What a lovely surprise to discover a letter awaiting us on our return to school, a letter from the Queen! Her Majesty’s Lady-in-Waiting had replied on behalf of the Queen to say thank you for our lovely portraits. What fabulous, talented royal artists we have! Please see our website for more examples. cont’d/...
18 WOODBURY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL cont’d/… In Art, Class 3 are looking at the street art of the secret artist Banksy. His urban artwork comments on society and carries meaningful messages. Our artwork will convey the theme of “Hope,” which follows our literacy theme. One of our pupils was so inspired that she created a fantastic informative poster at home. Earlier in the year the whole school worked together to create a beautiful artwork for our playground based upon our school vision of Inspiring One Another to Live Life in all its Fullness. The children and staff articulated the school vision through the values of Love, Inspiration, Fellowship and Encouragement, of which the initial letters spell out the word LIFE. After such a disrupted year for all children these four values have such resonance for today as we consider the love that God has for us especially in such difficult times. That he asks us to be an inspiration for others with acts of kindness in times of suffering. That it is through fellowship that we can overcome adversity and that we can do this through offering encouragement to one another. As we adjust to the uncertainty of what is ahead of us, we can live out our school values of living life in its fullness each day and celebrate learning together again. Please call our admin team on 01395 232649 and ask for our Head of Learning, Mrs Milford, if you would like to book a visit; we have spaces in some year groups and welcome parents who are choosing for Foundation/ Reception. We also welcome children who live out of catchment. Follow us on Facebook for updates on our latest news. Clare Rooke The 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).
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EXTON NEWS ST ANDREW’S CHURCH EXTON SUNDAY SERVICES: At present each church is having a service twice a month. Exton for this month will be: Sunday 4 October - Trinity 17. 18.30 Evening Service for Harvest Festival. Sunday 11 October - Trinity 18, 09.30 Holy Communion. HARVEST FESTIVAL The church will be open all Saturday morning (3 October) and would be grateful for all items, particularly tinned soup and baked beans, which will be going to the Exmouth Food Bank; at this time the Food Bank do not want fresh food, pasta or rice. The church will be decorated for Sunday. This is of course subject to social distancing. For further information, please look at the church noticeboard. A BRIEF JOURNEY THROUGH THE HISTORY OF EXTON ST ANDREW’S CHURCH 1864 –2020 In 1863 Exton was still a small hamlet of some 250 people. It was a two and half mile walk across muddy lanes to reach the parish church of St Swithun’s in Woodbury. The then vicar, Revd John Loveband Fulford, petitioned the Bishop of Exeter that a barn being rented from The Hon Mark Rolle could be converted into a place of worship. The barn, first rented for a year for two shillings and six pence (the equivalent of 12½ p today) in 1864 was given outright to the church. The harmonium was given by the vicar and the pews given by the then Lady Rolle from Bicton. The first recording of the Tithe Barn was in 1690 with a series of tenant farmers, until it was converted to St Andrew’s Church. It was known as a chapel of Ease or Mission Church of Exton. The little church flourished and was well cared for by its congregation. Most village activities centred around the church until the devastating flood in 1960 when, together with a row of cottages, little thatched Original Exton Church building converted from a the church was destroyed. Tithe Barn in 1863 cont’d/...
20 HISTORY OF EXTON CHURCH cont’d/...
The land upon which the cottages had once stood was given to the church by Lord Clinton and his tenants rehoused. Within a couple of years most of the money needed was raised by the village and together with various grants and donations, work could proceed on the new building which started in January 1962. This was completed and dedicated Above - Present church nearing completion on 29 September 1963 Below - Lady Mary teaching Sunday being just three years school children after the big flood. Exton Drama Club was first started by the Ladies Mary and Gabrielle Courtenay to raise funds for the building. The Drama Group has continued to produce wonderful high quality plays, reviews and pantomimes ever since. During the time between the destruction of the old church building and opening of the new, services were held in a large hut (referred to as the Tin Chapel) in the grounds of Merrivale where Sanderlings House now stands, between Exton and Green Lanes. The present Lady Clinton was at our 40th anniversary in 2003 - the same year people were asked for ideas about reordering the church in the present colour scheme, with chairs instead of the pews. On 2 May 2004 there was a service celebrating the completion of the refurbishment. 2023 will be the 60th anniversary of the present church building. There is a book on the full history in the history archive in Woodbury village hall; requests to see this can be made to Gill Selley.
21 The church is now licensed for weddings — a beautiful and welcoming church for all. Look on the noticeboard for information. Audrey Elphick
Above - 40th Anniversary Bishop of Crediton, Lady Clinton and Revd John Clapham Below - 50th Anniversary Flower Festival Lighting a pascal candle at St Andrew’s Church Exton during a pilgrimage walk from Exeter Cathedral on 11 July 2020, marking gradual reopening of churches after lockdown due to Covid-19.
WOODBURY NEWS to your door … All being well, as from this October issue, Woodbury News should be delivered to your door as before.
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ROUND AND ABOUT FLU VACCINATIONS These are now available throughout October at Woodbury Surgery for eligible patients. Please book an appointment online at www.woodbury surgery.co.uk or phone 01395 232509. WELCOME Welcome to the Cottrell family, who have recently moved to Woodbury. Andrew is starting work at the Met Office and Heidi is a musician and composer who also edits and manages websites. Along with Matthew and Micah, they look forward to meeting many of you soon. LANDFILL WASTE COLLECTION The landfill waste collection dates have altered slightly. The next collection will be on Friday 2 October, then every three weeks. This will alter over Christmas 2020 and New Year 2021, see www.wastsevon.gov.uk/my-bin.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
From Richard Brown richardandclarebrown@gmail.com Hello from New Zealand. My name is Richard Brown. I grew up living in Topsham but attended Lady Seaward school at Clyst St George from approximately 1951-1957. One of the girls who was also there was Valerie Gibbons, whom I remember as being gorgeous. In an idle Covid-19 moment I googled her name but of course she would be listed under a married name, I would imagine, but your magazine came up in my search. Prior to leaving the UK to come and live in Auckland NZ, my wife and I lived for a couple of years in the house named by me as Cobblers near the shop on the road to Lympstone. I was working at what was then Westaway Sails just up the road from the crossroads towards the common. We occasionally return to Topsham where we have several friends and sometimes pass through Woodbury with fond thoughts. If you happen to know of Valerie, please say ‘Hi!’ from me and pass on my email address. I think she had a sister too, named Sheila. They lived at Gibbons Farm in Ebford. Thanks. LOCAL RESIDENT MAJOR EVENT INFORMATION BICTON ARENA INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS. 21 - 25 OCTOBER Arrivals from Tuesday 20 October throughout the week. This will be a mix of larger lorries and trailers. Local competitors will be travelling in daily. Departing times throughout the day during the week.
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Lower Otter Restoration Project to submit full planning application; your chance to comment. Around the globe, coastal communities are threatened by climate change. East Devon is no exception. In the lower Otter valley, old flood embankments are beginning to fail as sea levels rise and we experience stormier events. As a result, farming activities, an old municipal tip, public access and Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club are at risk. Although much loved locally, the natural environment of the lower Otter valley has, for hundreds of years, been modified by humans. These changes have led to a disruption of natural processes with the river no longer able to adapt and move naturally, as it once did. Nor can it cope effectively with flooding events. The quality of habitats has declined, which has led to a reduction in biodiversity. There is also a constant need for costly infrastructure maintenance. Since 2009 Clinton Devon Estates have been looking at ways to manage the lower Otter valley more sustainably in the face of a rapidly changing climate. In partnership with the Environment Agency, plans have been developed to reconnect the river to its floodplain and to improve the natural function, ecological health and environmental status of the river. Under the proposals, 55 hectares of new mudflat and saltmarsh would be created, restoring the estuary closer to its original natural condition. In doing so, a wetland wildlife reserve of international status would be created. Earlier this year planning permission was granted to relocate Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club out of the floodplain, providing the club with a secure long-term future, free from flooding. Funding was also awarded to support the delivery of the project as part of a partnership with the Saâne Valley in Normandy, France, through the Interreg European funding scheme. This European initiative, called Promoting Adaptation to Changing Coasts, seeks to demonstrate that early adaptation to climate change is desirable and brings greater benefits to society than inaction. Extensive engineering and environmental planning, stakeholder consultation and public engagement have taken place over the past seven years. In September 2020, the project seeks full planning permission to deliver the Lower Otter Restoration Project. The planning process provides an opportunity for further comments on the proposals from local communities. Once the application is validated, details will be posted on the website, with consultation on the application also promoted by East Devon District Council and through local media. Please do take this opportunity to have your say. Sam Bridgewater, Head of Wildlife and Conservation, Clinton Devon Estates (www.lowerotterrestorationproject.co.uk.)
24 RSPB AYLESBEARE RESERVE The turn in the weather and the fading of the vibrant purple heather mean it is time for us to look ahead to our winter management programme here at RSPB Aylesbeare. So far this month we’ve steamed ahead with the last of bracken removal on the tumulus and some of the banks, to open up the ground enough for heather to colonise. We have also conducted a review of our waymarked trails following feedback from some of our visitors, and will be looking to spruce up existing waymarkers and add a few more in key areas. This month has seen the start of an intensive period of tree safety assessments. Several of the ash trees on the reserve are exhibiting signs of dieback; we will continue to monitor these trees and will be following internal guidelines and guidelines from the Tree Council in dealing with them as and when necessary. We have almost caught up with collecting and processing felled trees ready for the winter. We burn all the soft wood to heat our office, and the hard wood is available for sale in the local area. The first of our big winter jobs is to replace the 15-year-old fence on the westernmost edge of the Common, so we have been beavering away mending the other odd fence posts and gate latches so we can focus our efforts on this large section. The bulk of our winter work comprises scrub clearance. Lowland heaths are one of the rarest and most sensitive habitats in Britain, and are invaluable for many specialist species that cannot survive elsewhere. However, it is not a habitat that is preserved naturally; left completely to its own devices the Commons would become woodland through a process called succession. Succession is the progression of plant communities through stages from bare ground to a ‘climax’ community which is determined by the local climate. For much of the UK, including East Devon, that climax community is broadleaf woodland. Heathlands are a much earlier stage in succession, and the heathland we know and love on the Commons has been maintained over the centuries by the cutting of furze and turf that our ancestors would have used for fuel, and from the grazing of livestock. The reduction in these traditional management practices has led to the loss of much of our historic heathlands as they have progressed to woodland over time. Heathland is one of the first stages in succession as the plant community – including heathers, gorses and some grasses – is able to survive and thrive in poor soils. Over time, as older heathland plants die down, soils build up and accumulate more nutrients, allowing tree saplings and other more vigorous plants to colonise the area. A dense cover of trees and scrub shades out the heather and heathland wildlife, and over time the build-up of organic matter from dead heather and seasonally dropped leaves enriches the soil, making the area unsuitable for specialist plants to survive. Removing and controlling the populations of trees like birch, pine and willow is an essential aspect of our winter management programme to maintain the open heathlands for years to come.
25 We also devote a lot of time to removing European gorse. Again, it can grow in dense carpets that don’t allow other heathland species to colonise or grow in the area, but another consideration is the breeding habits of Dartford warblers. When the male is trying to attract a mate in spring, he will display from the top of a gorse bush, so he is easily visible to any females in his territory. However they’re fussy birds who won’t use the older, leggier gorse to display on, and need newer growth near the base of the gorse to build their nests around – hence the need to coppice gorse regularly to ensure a continuous supply of growth stages to benefit Dartford warblers and our other specialist residents. Trees, gorse and any other material we cut is burnt on the heath to prevent enrichment of the soil caused by decay. Fire is one of the most dramatic ways to rejuvenate the heath. In the past, wildfires would have ripped through the landscape, consuming dense trees and leaving the ground bare for heathers and other heathland plants to regrow from seeds left in the soil. Now, with houses and human life spread across the countryside, wildfires are a risk and so are extinguished quickly. To replicate the benefits of wildfires, we have controlled burns during the winter, called swaling. Sections of old vegetation are burned to get rid of old, woody growth less suitable for wildlife – resetting the process of succession and stimulating new growth. All of our cutting and burning management works take place over the winter months to avoid any adverse effects on breeding birds. Finally, we would just like to mention that there are still ticks present on the reserve, so please remember to check yourselves (clothes and skin) and any pets for ticks when you get home. Ellie Woolway, Devon Reserves Administrator
WEATHER REPORT After the drought month of July with some heat, we progressed to more heat in August, which until the 18th was again also rather dry for us at Ebford. However thunder and rain came earlier to many locations including Woodbury, where I was caught out on 13th! The heavy rain of Wednesday 19th, about one inch, was locally widespread and accompanied by strong winds. The last week of August provided almost two inches, again with very strong winds, making the monthly total 100mm or 3.9 inches. So 88% arrived during the second half period, and the total was slightly more than the average for the last ten years, 82.6mm here at Ebford. It is interesting to note that my average for the years 2001 to 2010 was only 46.4mm. August is now reported to be generally the wettest summer month throughout the country. (Daily Telegraph weather watch for Saturday 29/8/20). Norman Cann
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SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS WANTED Help with housework required. 2 hours per week. Hours to suit. Lympstone. Contact Carol on 01392 873230.
BUSINESS ADVERTISEMENTS CARPENTER Chris Isaac Property Maintenance, Kitchens, Doors, Flooring, Fencing, Fascias/Guttering, Tiling, General Repairs. Free Estimates. Reliable tradesman. 07855 170674/01395 233933 chrisisaaccarpenter@gmail.com (6/12) ALTERATIONS TO LADIES AND GENTS WEAR, MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS AND ROMAN BLINDS, ALTERATIONS TO CURTAINS. Contact Shirley on 01395 223523. (11/12) MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER - providing services such as nail cutting, corn and callus removal, thickened nail reduction. For appointments please call 01392 949030 (11/12) WE ARE POSH NOSH! With over two decades of experience in the catering industry we are at the forefront of special occasion and event catering in Devon and the West Country. We are committed to providing first class cuisine with outstanding levels of service. Phone: 01392 444877 or email: info@posh-nosh.co.uk. (3/12) SYNERGI EVERTHING PLUMBING AND HEATING For all your plumbing and heating needs. Large or small jobs at fair prices. Boiler servicing, repairs and care plans. Local, reliable and efficient. Gas, Oil, and LPG. Tel Synergi 01395 542226. www.synergisw.co.uk. (5/12) MATHS TUITION: Experienced, female Maths teacher available to teach primary to GSCE level maths, 11+ and SATs prep. Now providing virtual tutoring and online support. Reasonable rates. Jane Moffatt on 07730 877889 janepmoffatt@gmail.com. (9/12) EXE INTERIORS & HANDYMAN SERVICES for all home improvement requirements inc. painting & decorating, wall & floor tiling, bathrooms & kitchens, handyman service. Call Sean 07967 777396. (4/12) 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. (8/24) RUBBISH REMOVALS Domestic and Commercial. Environment Agency licensed. No job too small. Tel: 0800 335 7610 / 07979 841376. www.rubbishremovalsexeter.com. (5/12)
27 BUSINESS ADVERTISEMENTS cont’d/... COMPUTER REPAIRS AND UPGRADES; Broadband and wireless connections; Data recovery and backup; Windows, iPads and Apple computers, Virus and spyware removal; No fix no fee - Evening visits to suit you. Contact: Mark Doyle 01395 233694. (2/12) PROPERTY MAINTENANCE – James Waddell Interior & Exterior, Carpentry, Flooring, Fencing & Gates, Plumbing, Decking, Bathrooms & Kitchens, General Repairs. Free Advice & Estimates 01395 263496. (4/12) 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. (2/12) WOODBURY HOLIDAY HOME TO RENT in centre of village. Luxury accommodation for 4 people, 2 en-suites, parking, courtyard garden. Weekly holidays & short breaks. www.woodburyholidays.co.uk 01579 350365. (2/12) ROOFING Woodbury based RWI Roofing Specialising in Slating, Tiling, Re-Roof, New Roof, Repairs, Guttering. For a friendly, reliable service call Ray 232926, or 07988 691051 (As recmd in OurLocalExpert.co.uk). (1/12)
WOODBURY NEWS ADVERTISING RATES
SMALL ADS: (3 lines) private £2.00. (3 lines) Business £5.00 (£50.00 p.a.) DISPLAY ADS: £17.00 ¼ page (£185 p.a.) To: Karen Squires, Willowfield, Oakhayes Road, Woodbury EX5 1JT Tel: 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.
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Mike Dickson Gardening All Jobs Considered Specialist in hedge cutting, shrub pruning and grass.
Tel: 07985 697205 Africa / Asia / Australia USA / Canada / NZ South America / Antarctica Discuss your travel plans with the award-winning experts
Nomadic Travel 25 Gandy Street Exeter Tel: 01392 221199 Email: info.nomadictravel.co.uk
www.nomadictravel.co.uk Independent travel agents Established 1999 100% Financial Protection ATOL T7452
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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
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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:
Pat or Gill Bricknell 01395 232463
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 For bookings please contact: Robin or Marian Lennox Tel: 01395 232126 email:- woodburyvh@gmail.com www.woodburyvillagehall.org.uk
32 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
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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
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Woodbury Dance Studio RAD BALLET Grades and Majors
Children from 2½ years Principal: Mary Griffiths ARAD, MA(Oxon) Tel: 01395 271249 marygriffiths@hotmail.com www.woodburydance.co.uk All classes at Woodbury C of E Primary School
T.D. BUILDERS General Quality Building Service * New builds & Extensions * Brickwork & Block work * Rendering & Plastering * Drives & Patios * All types of building work undertaken !! FREE ESTIMATES
01395 233995 or 07751 738092
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WOODBURY SALTERTON
W.S. TAXI 1 - 8 People LOCAL & LONG DISTANCE