WOODBURY NEWS
SEPTEMBER 2020
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SEPTEMBER 2020 EDITORIAL
I’m sure I can’t have been the only person standing on the Green in Woodbury on 15 August, when Michael Owen played The Last Post and Reveille commemorating the end of the war in Japan, who felt a tingling sensation from the nape of their neck to the base of their spine. A solemn occasion indeed. I vividly recalled a recent visit to Myanmar (formerly Burma), when we walked a small part of a track through the jungle, much of which had been gouged out by the hands of prisoners of war; we also saw a display of some really disturbing photographs. It makes the Cry for Peace Around the World, particularly relevant (see page 15). Now for some good news: all being well, Woodbury News will be available in a printed format as from the October issue, but sadly without colour. We are grateful to readers who have printed off copies during the last few months to pass on to those who have not been able to access the online versions. Thank you too, in advance, to our band of volunteer distributors, and as always to our contributors. For keen walkers and photographers, may we remind you to support The Heaths and Me project, currently being run by the Pebblebed Heath Conservation Trust. We are lucky to live so near Woodbury Common, which is enjoyed all year round by walkers and nature lovers alike. The project aims to explore the wide range of experiences visitors have and the feelings they have about this local space. You can find further details at www.pebblebedheaths.org.uk, or on page 41 in last month’s Woodbury News). Do submit your photos now. Do send in articles for next month about how lockdown may have altered your ‘normal’ pre-lockdown life. And maybe your holiday was not as planned at the beginning of 2020, and you have a story to tell about what you did instead? We look forward to hearing from you. The photograph on the cover was taken by Gill Dougal; thanks to her and to Mike Jeans for other photos illustrating the RBL article on pages 13-15. 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: Anna Crafer, 15 Haymans Orchard, Woodbury. Tel: 232007
4 ST SWITHUN’S CHURCH, WOODBURY Vicar: Reverend Bill Lemmey Email: revbillwhitecross@gmail.com Administrator: Jill Dupain dupain@hotmail.co.uk WHITE CROSS COMMUNITY SERVICES - SEPTEMBER 6 September
13 September
20 September
27 September
09.30 Holy Communion 11.15 Holy Communion No Zoom Service 18.30 Evening Service
Woodbury Salterton Woodbury
09.30 09.30 09.30 11.30 18.30
Holy Communion Holy Communion Morning Prayer Zoom Service Holy Communion
Exton Farringdon Clyst St George
09.30 09.30 09.30 11.30 18.30
Holy Communion Morning Prayer Morning Prayer Zoom Service Evening Prayer
Aylesbeare Woodbury Salterton Clyst St Mary
09.30 09.30 11.30 18.30
Holy Communion Morning Prayer Zoom Service Evening Prayer
Clyst St George Aylesbeare
Exton
Clyst St Mary
Woodbury
Farringdon
A reminder that at 09.30 on Sunday 23 August Revd Bill celebrates the first Holy Communion service in St Swithun’s. Social distancing will be in place and face masks must be worn. You will be asked to give contact details and sanitise your hands on arrival. NB The September Holy Communion service will be at 11.15. We look forward to seeing you.
FLOODLIGHTING ST SWITHUN’S CHURCH 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. 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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6 WOODBURY CAMERA CLUB Camera Club in lockdown – and 2021 calendar It’s been a steep learning curve, but in the Camera Club we worked out some manageable ways to continue during lockdown, using Zoom video meetings and sharing Google Photos albums online. In normal times, some members regularly work together on photographic exercises – meeting virtually instead has been great fun, and has kept the club going during this difficult period. Each month, someone suggests a topic – from Wildlife and Nature to Unusual Angles – and we are tasked with taking suitable photographs and sharing them online. The discussions in our virtual meetings are often very lively and light-hearted, as well as constructive. But, with between 10 and 15 participants discovering the limitations of talking via video, we quickly learnt to be more discerning and to limit the number of photos, or we would be chatting all night! Quite a lot of imagination goes into finding subjects that are equally suitable and stimulating for those self-isolating as for those able to leave the house. It’s been good to have something creative and challenging to focus on, and to get us out and about (to the extent we can) - and most of our photos have been taken in the local area and in our gardens and homes. The club also held two main meetings online (though most of our programme is postponed), and experimented with a blog for sharing about some of our favourite photographers. Zoom has been great for keeping a core of ‘regulars’ connected and working together in good spirits, but we’re looking forward to meeting face to face again … one day.
7 Meanwhile, we are really delighted to have produced our 2021 calendar almost entirely online (instead of around someone’s kitchen table!) – and even to have it ready a bit earlier than usual. The calendar features local scenes and landscape views throughout the parish. It costs £6 per copy and will be available at Rook Pie in Woodbury, and from club members (especially Mike Jeans 232544 and Sue Hudson 232203 in Woodbury). Diana Wackerbarth, and Tim and Judy Green
Photo above: Woodbury Castle, Chris Sheppard. Photo below: Woodbury sunset from Castle Lane, Pete Broadbelt
8 WOODBURY CRICKET CLUB The cricket season finally got underway on 25 July in a new format, redesigned to accommodate the reduced length of the season. Both the 1st and 2nd XI teams are in new divisions, each comprising four teams, the winners of which progress to a knockout tournament against other teams in Devon. Having experienced glorious sunshine for most of the summer, the first day of the season greeted us with rain. Woodbury 1st XI travelled to Seaton, where play was delayed for more than an hour due to the weather. In such conditions, the toss has an added significance and, with our captain, Nalin Chouhan, caught in traffic, the responsibility fell to our vice-captain, Steve Boundy, who fortunately called right, and we would bowl first. Nalin opened the bowling and achieved something he had never done before: a wicket with the first ball of the season. We were off to a flyer! Wickets would continue to fall at regular intervals, with all six bowlers taking at least one wicket, the pick of the bowlers being Becca Silk (2-8) and new player, Mukesh Purohit (2-7). They were supported in the field by some fine catches, notably Mukesh, Steve Boundy and George Jarman. The match had been reduced to 25 overs, because of the rain delay, and Seaton were held to 80-9. Woodbury's opening batters also achieved something they had not done before: a first 50 partnership for Shenan Grossberg (39) and Simon Vicary (20 not out). Woodbury reached their target with 37 balls to spare and with 9 wickets in hand. Everyone had performed well, and Woodbury's season was off to a winning start. Unfortunately, Woodbury’s 2nd XI game against Kentisbeare was abandoned due to the weather. The following week, 1 August, Woodbury & Newton SC 2nd Xl travelled to the splendidly picturesque Feniton to play Topsham St James. Skipper Hughes won the toss and decided to bat on a good-looking wicket and decidedly uneven outfield. The dashing start from Paul McCutchion was ended with the team on 16. The next dismissal of Max Weston belongs in the “What happened next?” category. Max edged a ball down towards slip who pushed out a large right foot to stop a 4; the ball ricocheted straight up in the air to be snaffled by second slip! At 16-2 it might have looked like trouble but a 99-run stand in 55 mins between Hughes and the mighty Smale put the team back on track. At least 10 of those 55 mins were spent looking for the ball as Andy Smale hit 51 runs, 48 of which were boundaries. The partnership was broken as Smale was bowled and soon after Hughes followed. That brought Anil Chouhan and Andy Cork together who continued to blitz the Topsham bowling, Anil making 46 and Andy a maiden 52 for the club. A final total of 233 for 6 from 35 overs was a great effort.
9 Despite only having 10 players, Woodbury took three wickets before the evergreen Steve “Chalky” White produced a masterclass of slow left arm bowling, as he snaffled three wickets and ripped out the middle order. Topsham were restricted to 160 for 8 in their 35 overs. Excellent ground fielding and numerous incidents of body abuse, as the ball reared up off a dodgy outfield, contributed to a great team effort. On the same day, the first team fell to their first defeat of the season against Upottery 2nd XI. Woodbury batted first and struggled to 56-6, despite a solid 18 from Simon Vicary. With their team in trouble, a late call-up Phil Dale combined with Dave Church (29) to haul the home side back into the game, adding 60 for the seventh wicket before Dale fell for 37. Eleven runs from Becca Silk enabled Woodbury to scrape to 133-9. Nalin Chouhan once again took a wicket in the first over to give Wood a further glimmer of hope, but despite wickets for Becca Silk (1-14) and Mukesh Purohit (1-27) and a run-out from Daniel Alford, Upottery were able to ease home with just over three overs to spare. This left Upottery top of the group with Woodbury's chances of progression hanging in the balance. On 8 August, the second team hosted Sidbury in a top-of-the-table clash at Town Lane on a glorious summer's day. Sidbury, who were undefeated in the league last season and had won both games this season, batted first but Max Weston was able to strike in the second over before a run had been scored. However, Sidbury's strong batting line-up soon started to get on top with Bishop (42) adding 62 with opener Grove. Jo Moretta (2 wickets) and Ross Jarvis (1) took three quick wickets to put the game back in the balance. Sidbury's Paget (39) and Reed (21) then joined the opener Phil Grove who batted through for 48 not out as Sidbury reached 177-5 from their 35 overs. Ollie Brealy's excellent late spell (including the key wicket of Paget) played a key role in keeping Sidbury's score below 200. Woodbury's reply recovered from an early wicket as Phil Dale (37) and Ross Jarvis (20) built a solid platform. Enter Andy Smale, who started watchfully before beginning to accelerate, while at the other end wickets fell regularly. Smale recorded his second 50 in as many weeks, getting to the landmark with a six. However, despite number 11 Tom Dowle's best efforts, the pair were unable to get the home side over the line, with the innings closing on 170-9. This means Woodbury's chances of progression rely on them winning all their remaining fixtures, including the return trip to Sidbury. Meanwhile, the 1st XI travelled to Sampford Peverell, where Nalin won the toss and decided to field on a hot afternoon. Sampford got off to a flying start, reaching 43-0 and 91-1. It looked like they might set an imposing total, but a rising delivery from James Plowman (1-25) removed the opener and disciplined bowling from Becca Silk (0-19) and Daniel Alford (2-24) reduced the hosts to 95-3. Ian Hughes (2-18) bowled very well at the end of the innings to keep Sampford to 166-5 off 35 overs. cont’d/...
10 WOODBURY CRICKET CLUB cont’d/… Woodbury’s run chase got off to a terrible start, losing early wickets; however, a devastating display of hard-hitting by George Jarman (79 in 50 balls) swung the game Woodbury’s way. After George was bowled, wickets continued to fall, and the game was still in the balance at 142-6. Hughes (10) and Plowman (12) then came together for a 27-run 7th-wicket stand to see the visitors home with 7.3 overs to spare. Shenan Grossberg WOODBURY COMMUNITY ORCHARD Many people have enjoyed exploring the community orchard this year, and have welcomed being able to picnic, exercise and bring their dogs along. You may have noticed that paths have been mown and trees weeded and maintained. As we come to late summer and autumn the fruit is now starting to ripen - some varieties are earlier than others, while many go on into September. As we are unlikely to be able to hold our annual juicing event, we do not want to waste the fruit. So please do help yourself to the apples and pears as they are ready. The windfalls will be great for cooking, but most of the apples are eating varieties. If people take what they need for themselves there should be plenty to go round. It would be lovely to know what you do use your apples for - please post any good recipes on our facebook page. Alex Thiemann WOODBURY DANCE STUDIO We have kept in touch with each other during this difficult time by Zoom lessons which turned out to be enjoyed by all! Ballet restarts at Woodbury Primary School on Monday 14 September. Students can no longer just drop in - I must know beforehand if students are going to attend. Numbers are limited and parents are no longer able to watch at will - there is a limited number of watching spaces and parents must inform me if they wish to watch (one parent/guardian per student). Strict measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of the children. Any questions, please text Mary on 07855485603 or email marygriffiths@ hotmail.com. Thank you. Mary Griffiths
11 WOODBURY GARDEN CLUB The committee sadly came to the conclusion that it was not possible to hold the Annual Flower and Vegetable show safely, so it had to be cancelled. Such a shame, as it is lovely to spend the afternoon admiring the beautiful flowers and lovely vegetables and fruit, and then enjoy cake and a cuppa with friends! The pelargoniums in the Arch are now growing well, so many thanks to Annette Smith, Bryony Giles and the late Jean Carpenter, who grew them, the seven volunteers who keep the planters watered and tidy for this lovely summer display, and also Roger and Vera Stokes whose tap we use! We hope we will be able to restart our evening meetings in September, but at the time of writing it is too soon to say. If we decide to go ahead, a notice will be put on our notice board in the Arch, and we would of course be adhering strictly to the village hall and government requirements. Debby Mullier WOODBURY PLANT SALES Thanks to the brilliant efforts of the growers, and wonderful support from the village, the plant sale raised the magnificent amount of £812.75, distributed as follows: St Swithun’s £204.96 RBL £ 61.05 RNLI £ 61.05 FORCE £122.10 Food bank £298.13 Samaritans £ 25.00 The Garden Club retained £40.46 from plants that had been donated for the club’s benefit. The website https://woodburydevonplants.wordpress.com/ still has plants available now and then, and they will also be sold at the Saturday lych gate stalls. All proceeds at the moment are going to St Swithun’s Church. If you do not have internet access I can be contacted on 232462, but otherwise please make any enquiries via the website. Debby Mullier
WOODBURY NEWS 2020 CLOSING DATES 15 SEPTEMBER. 17 NOVEMBER.
20 OCTOBER. 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
12 WOODBURY 1ST GUIDES These have certainly been strange times for the Guides. Our summer term is usually crammed full of exciting outdoor adventurous activities and camps, which obviously have all been cancelled. We have tried hard to maintain contact with the girls and many of them have enjoyed the various treasure hunts we set around the village. However, we have not been letting the grass grow under our feet during lockdown as we work with Woodbury Community Playing Fields to develop the ‘Hive’ (formally the Scout & Guide hut). Having completed phase one of our project to renovate the Hive, making it a shared space for all the Guide and Scout Units and the Pre-School of the village, we are now raising funds for phase two of the project. This is to build an extension on the side to provide much needed storage and an office for Maytree Pre-School. With this aim in mind, 1st Woodbury Guides are now registered with easyfundraising and Amazon Smile, which means you can raise FREE donations for us every time you shop online. Over 4,000 shops and sites will donate to us when you use easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself. These donations really mount up and make a BIG difference to us, so we’d really appreciate it if you could take a moment to sign up and support us. It’s completely free and only takes a moment. The more supporters we have the more donations we accrue for this project. You can find our easyfundraising page at https://www.easyfundraising. org.uk/causes/1stwoodburyguides/?utm_campaign=raisemore&utm_content=gs-e1 We thank you very much in the anticipation of your support. Helen Ellis, 1st Woodbury Guides
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.
13 WOODBURY AND DISTRICT ROYAL BRITISH LEGION VJ75 was commemorated on Saturday 15 August on the village green. Christine Grist led the service with Sean Kiley parading the Standard and Michael Owen performing The Last Post and Reveille. Revd Bill gave the Blessing. A wreath with the VJ logo was designed by Gill Dougal and laid by Sandra Huish. The service was followed by the ringing of the Ellacome Chimes 75 times by Peter Grist and Gordon Davis — really lovely to hear the bells ringing out for peace. It was good to see many familiar faces again after such a long time. The weather stayed dry and there was plenty of room for social distancing on the green.
cont’d/..
14 VJ Day marks the 75th Anniversary of Victory over Japan and the end of the Second World War. VE Day 75 was celebrated in May, the end of the war in Europe, but carrying on in the Far East for another three months. Many more lives were lost and their sacrifice must not be forgotten. My late father-in-law, Tony Huish, served in Burma with the Chindits, marching about 500 miles through the jungle to cross the Chinwyn River - he was 22 years old! My son, Alan, is slowly piecing together his grandfather’s war, as he never spoke a lot about it. Tony was given a train ticket from Exeter when he finally got back and told he could go home. No big thank-you for any of them! I think there is another family in Woodbury whose relative was also in Burma; it would be lovely to hear from them sometime to record their stories more fully. You can contact me on 01395 232696. Sandra Huish
15 The Kohima Epitaph When You Go Home, Tell Them of Us and Say: “For Your Tomorrow We Gave Our Today.“
Cry For Peace Around The World Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! Victory in Europe was on the eighth day of May Now it’s August fifteenth, so what of this day? Japan’s now surrendered, and told to “lay down its arms. Go back to your factories, offices, and farms.” But in Singapore, Thailand, and Burma, no less Our ‘forgotten army’ still had to clear up the mess. We mustn’t forget the war in the far east, Or the lives which were lost, before the battles were ceased. Three quarters of a century have passed since those days And life has moved on, in so many ways. So August fifteenth became a day of celebration As Japan agreed to the Potsdam declaration. And on September second, at last it was done. The world war was over, the battle’s been won. VJ Day, is a day to be cherished When we remember all those who have perished. Stand proudly my country, stand proudly with Britain. Dwell on this cry, so proudly written. This Kingdom never gave up, and it must never forget! God Save The Queen. (reprinted from the service sheet from 15 August)
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WOODBURY SALTERTON NEWS WOMEN’S INSTITUTE COFFEE MORNING On 16 July a good number of WI members met in the garden of The Digger’s Rest and enjoyed coffee and cake and a good natter while observing social distancing. Thanks to Arwen and Dan for making this such an enjoyable occasion and for the delicious cakes. It was so good to meet up with friends again and gave us all some feeling of a bit of normality. There will be another coffee morning there towards the end of August. Katharine Wheeler
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WHAT A SPLENDID EFFORT At the start of the coronavirus lockdown a group of people in our village set up a support network for those obliged to stay at home. As happened in other villages the length and breadth of the country, volunteers did shopping, visiting and running errands. We appreciate the strong community spirit in Woodbury Salterton and thank warmly all who helped so selflessly. While we are grateful to all who helped, we would like to make a special mention of the prescription picking-up service which carried on until the end of July. Patrick Bricknell went to the surgery at Woodbury nearly every day for 18 weeks collecting prescriptions and delivering them. Thank you, Patrick, and all the other volunteers who made such a difference to our lives at this difficult time. Katharine Wheeler
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EXTON NEWS ST ANDREW’S CHURCH EXTON - SERVICES After a long spell without services in our church, things are beginning to slowly improve. We will be having services on the following Sundays in September. Sunday 6 September. 18.30, Evening Service. Sunday 13 September. 09.30, Holy Communion. These services will of course be subject to wearing masks and social distancing (please bring your own mask). We look forward to welcoming you inside. A BRIEF JOURNEY THROUGH THE HISTORY OF EXTON Part 3 Flooding in Exton 1960 Although there have been several floods in lower Exton during past years, the most notable was during the night of 29 September 1960. It had been raining for several days before, but that night storms lashed the West country. Combined with strong winds and high tides, there was much flooding throughout the region. Small streams became thundering torrents as they raced down the lanes and across already sodden fields. The small village of Exton was caught between the rising estuary tide and the water rushing down from Gilbrook in Woodbury. Standing in its path was the little thatched church and a row of cottages, all of which stood no chance of survival.
Old Exton Church and Cottages before their destruction in the 1960 flood.
19 Many people owed their safety to the quick thinking and brave actions of the local Marines based in Lympstone, who rescued them from surrounding villages where houses had been flooded. In the early morning light it became evident that much damage had been wrought in the area. The row of cottages, which had stood on the site where the current church now stands, had been devastated. Fortunately no-one died but people had lost their homes. The cottages had been the property of Clinton Devon Estates and later Lord Clinton rehoused his tenants.
The morning after the flooding 1960
The little thatched church with her cob walls had imploded and she was surrounded by at least three to four feet of water. People from the village helped to rescue many items from the surrounding hedgerows. Amongst the people searching through the mass of debris and mud for whatever could be saved from the church was Lady Mary Courtenay. A young boy who had been looking along the foreshore had found the candle snuffer and taking it to Lady Mary said, “Please miss I have found the candle putter out for you.” Several other items, such as the altar cross and candlesticks are still being used today in the present church, built on land given by Lord Clinton. The villagers of Exton have always been very caring people, particularly in a crisis. Audrey Elphick cont’d/...
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Lower Station Road June 1989
Mill Lane 2003
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Exton Village Hall 2003
Cleaning up 2003
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23 EXTON ARTICLES FOR WOODBURY NEWS Woodbury News can still be found on the Exton Hall website www.extonvillage.uk/wn. We hope to have printed copies back from next month. If you have any interesting items regarding the village, please make sure that they are sent to Karen Squires by the dates listed on page 11. (karensquires100@gmail.com). Each month we have short interesting historical items with photos about various past events in Exton. Audrey Elphick
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
WOODBURY NEWS to your door ‌ All being well, as from the October issue, Woodbury News should be delivered to your door soon after 25 September. WEATHER REPORT July was a very dry month of course, increasingly warm, and only 15mm (2/3 inch) of rain fell here at Ebford. This made it the second driest July in the last 20 years (only 3mm in July 2016). The average over the last 10 years was 45mm, and the average between 2001 and 2010 was 66mm. So Julys are becoming drier, it would seem. Comparable figures for June over the same years were 68mm and 58mm; so Junes are getting wetter!? As I write, a third of August has now passed and, without a promised thunder storm, is proving to be very hot and dry. This is good for holidays, I suppose, but disastrous for lawns and gardens. Norman Cann
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ROUND AND ABOUT DEATH Pamela Anne Gruber (nee Martin) 1932-2020 After a long period of ill health at home in the loving care of her husband, Ernst, Pam died on 12 August 2020 at the RD&E hospital. Pam was admitted to hospital shortly before her death, where she was cared for with respect, dignity and kindness by the doctors and staff. Ernst was at Pam’s bedside throughout her short stay in hospital and Roni and Nik were with her when she passed away. Having been married to Ernst for 63 years, Pam leaves two children, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren as well as many more close relatives, all of whom will miss her ever-present love for them.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR From Mimi Cassidy If you've heard soulful, dulcet tones drifting across the village during lockdown, they may have originated from Woodbury resident Magda Cassidy (known as Mágdala) who has been recording a brand-new EP of her original songs, collaborating remotely with French Producer Pablaw. Their EP The Alchemist gained interest from record label Crosswalk Records, and is scheduled for release on Spotify, and all other streaming platforms, on 27 August 2020. Sunday, the deliciously lazy first single from the upcoming EP, was released Mágdala Cassidy earlier this month, and is available to stream now. A languid fusion of modern jazz and rap, don't miss this summer anthem, URL to stream single: https://fanlink.to/270820.
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25 From Justin Parsons Although I live in the Midlands, I am a regular visitor to Woodbury due to my best friend of many many years, Gordon Davis, living in the village. I thought that it would be amusing to send in a photo of Gordon for Woodbury News. We went to visit my mother in East Sussex in late July to transform her garden. However, I happened to show Gordon that in my mother's shed she still had my 38-year-old skateboard. My late father, who passed away last year, was still playing on this himself at the age of 75. However, Gordon fancied a go, having not been on one since he was a lad. One go turned into a week of most evenings, even after dark, of skateboarding along the path/road. I have attached a photo of Gordon enjoying himself on a skateboard for those villagers to see what fun can still be had. Having just returned from our very first camping trip with our 2-year-old dog, I would also like to thank Webbers Park for a great stay whilst we camped there.
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.
26 NOTABLE TREES OF WOODBURY III My next tree is a species that was once a very common and distinctive element of the English landscape but one that is now much less visible. Large English elms (ulmus procera) were at one time to be seen in almost every parish in the country, typically as large, spreading trees within field hedgerows. Woodbury will have been no different and village records going back to the 1700s make frequent reference to the cutting of elm trees for timber and the planting of elms. Majestic old elms can be spotted in the background of many old photographs of the parish. All this changed, of course, with the coming of Dutch Elm Disease (DED). The disease in fact has nothing to do with Holland, the name arising from the fact that it was Dutch plant scientists who first worked out the mechanism by which the disease is transmitted. It is in effect a double whammy, with the relatively harmless wood-boring elm bark beetles carrying the deadly (to elms) fungus on their backs as they bore into trees, breaking through the trees’ defensive bark layer that would normally keep the fungus at bay. The tree is effectively injected with the fungus, with the fungus causing the vascular system of the tree to stop working. The disease takes hold very rapidly and it is sometimes possible to observe trees wilting within days of an initial infection via the beetle. The disease is exacerbated by the fact that elms do not generally propagate via seed, rather they tend to reproduce vegetatively, via suckers from the roots of established trees. This means that, genetically, there is very little difference between the generations, reducing the ability of elms to breed in resistance over the years. However, all is not lost. There are still many elms within the parish, some of a considerable size. I see two kinds of elms on my travels around the village and surroundings: Hedgerow elms Very common in almost every field hedge in the parish and often flailed to no more than 10ft high or so. These mostly arise from English elms that once grew within the hedgerow but that have succumbed to DED. Although the original tree has gone, the plant has the ability to regrow from its roots and this regrowth will develop in such a way that it cannot be infected by the fungus in the dead tree. The beetle is also mostly attracted to elm trees with a corky bark, generally found on English elms that have developed to a height of around 10ft or more. In addition, the beetle flies at around this height, so that low hedges tend not to come into its orbit. This is why many of the flailed farm hedges are still thick with English elm. Where a hedgerow has been in existence for a long time then it is possible that the elms we see today consist of the same clonal material that was planted thousands of years ago. Typical English elm hedges can be seen growing on both sides of the road from Downs Corner to the scrapyard.
27 Occasionally you’ll see an English elm that starts to develop into a small tree. Inevitably it will get to around to 10 or 15ft in height and then one day the foliage will start to wilt and turn brown. Within a few weeks or months the tree is dead. A few larger trees are visible within the hedges near Downs Corner and others can be seen here and there around the parish - there is a fairly large tree right opposite the chip shop, growing within the group of trees above The Arch. Elms that have reached small tree size A few of these are scattered around the village. A fine individual can be seen just by the Gilbrook near the bridge. Another collection of larger elms are to be found at the bottom of Orchard Close, though these have just been reduced in height. A few more are growing along Town Lane near Springhayes. All these trees are varieties of smooth leaved elms (the upper surface of the leaf is smoother than the English elm), with a form of this tree being common in Cornwall and parts of Devon (therefore sometimes known as Cornish elm). This variety shows some resistance to DED and hence trees can develop into fair-sized specimens. Apart from the fact that these trees have survived to grow into moderately-sized trees, these elms can be distinguished from the English elm by the less corky bark – possibly a reason that the fussy elm bark beetle doesn’t have such a liking for this tree. Almost all elms have one distinguishing feature that lets you identify them apart from other common trees. The leaf halves, either side of the central petiole, never meet at the base of the petiole. Also, on English elms, look out for the strange corky “wings” around some of the twigs. Elms used to be known as “widow-makers” due to their propensity to shed large limbs without warning. An old English saying says “Elm hateth man and waiteth”, perhaps alluding to this characteristic. Perhaps we are better off without the giant elms of the past towering over our houses... Graham Joyce Email: gmj @dartmoortreesurgeons.co.uk
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Beavers living on River Otter have helped shape national policy and the future of an iconic species which can now be part of the British countryside again. Many of you will have heard this significant announcement and seen the River Otter make the national and international news last month. After five years of study and additional months of uncertainty, England’s first wild breeding population of beavers were finally granted the permanent right to remain in their river home, after a gap of 400 years. The decision announced on 6 August by Defra is a landmark one, as it signals the first legally sanctioned reintroduction of an extinct native mammal to England. It means that the beaver population, which lives on the River Otter and is estimated to consist of up to 15 family groups, now has a secure future. The announcement came after the successful completion of a five-year trial overseeing the animals and their impacts, led by the Devon Wildlife Trust working in partnership with The University of Exeter, the Derek Gow Consultancy, and Clinton Devon Estates. Expert independent advice is also provided by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, Dr Roisin CampbellPalmer, Professor John Gurnell, Professor Alastair Driver and Gerhard Schwab. In February the project published a Science and Evidence Report overseen by independent researchers from the University of Exeter. This concluded that the beavers’ presence had brought benefits to people and wildlife living along the River Otter. Key findings highlighted how other wildlife had greatly benefitted from the beavers’ presence because of the ways in which beavers enhance wetland habitats. The report showed how beavers’ dam building activities had also helped reduce the risk of flooding to some flood-threatened human settlements and the positive role that beavers could have in improving water quality, with their dams acting as filters which trap soil and other run-off from surrounding farmland. The report also drew attention to some localised problems for landowners where beavers were present and explained how these had been managed. More broadly, a number of specialist interest groups and organisations remain concerned about the extent of felling of riverside trees and how beaver dams may obstruct migration of fish in certain situations. Clinton Devon Estates has been proud to have played a key role in the delivery of the River Otter Beaver Trial (ROBT). Through our involvement with the Trial we have seen at first hand the benefits beavers can bring to society.
29 We have also seen the conflicts that can arise and believe that there is a need to manage this species going forward. The ROBT partnership has recommended an approach to management to help avoid the negative impacts of these creatures whilst allowing the benefits to be maximised. Alongside all members of the trial we are calling for the government to support this. The strategy includes ensuring that landowners are supported financially to make more space for water, so that land-based businesses can co-exist alongside beavers and their wetlands. Kate Ponting BEd (Hons), Countryside and Communities Officer Tel: 01395 443881. DDI: 01395 446918. Mobile: 07917 104250. Email - kate.ponting@clintondevon.com. Visit us at www.clintondevon.com RSPB AYLESBEARE RESERVE As we are coming towards the end of our summer work programme here at the RSPB, we have been glad to be able to welcome some of our volunteers back in a limited capacity to help with our rather long list of priority tasks – they are invaluable for delivering our conservation work across the Commons. Also, although a little later than planned, we are delighted to announce that our new warden, Dylan, officially joined us at the end of July. There has been quite a flurry of activity the past few weeks, getting the last of the seasonal spraying work done to improve the quality of our meadows, and waging war on some triffidous bracken. Our livestock have been moved into their summer grazing loops: we have eight Aberdeen Angus out on Venn Ottery Common, and twenty-seven hill breed cattle grazing across Aylesbeare and Harpford. Most of our herd of ponies from Aylesbeare have been seconded to sites in Stockland, but four have been turned out on Withycombe Raleigh Common, which is currently teaming with blackberries – our volunteers might have left some for you… The hot dry weather we’ve been enjoying recently has the fruit ripening quickly, but it also means the area is still under a significant risk of fire. Several bonfires have been reported to us recently. They had already been put out by the time we got there, but mounds of ash can stay hot for 24 hours after the flames have been extinguished and it only takes a gust of wind for an errant spark to cause a major wildfire. Please always follow the Fire Service’s guidance and don’t have BBQs or bonfires on the heaths. Another piece of news we’re excited to announce is our involvement in one of the first UK trials of a virtual fencing system for our livestock on Fire Beacon Hill, in partnership with Natural Branscombe. Linked to GPS collars worn by the cattle, an online software allows us to draw virtual boundaries in place of erecting extensive physical electric fencing – when an animal gets too close to our boundaries the collar gives it an audible warning followed by a mild electric shock if it ignores its warning. cont’d/...
30 RSPB cont’d/… This new system will hopefully allow us more control over grazing patterns and open up new areas we haven’t been able to graze before. There is also the added benefit of no risks of accidental electric shocks to deer, dogs, or children once the physical fences have been removed – although dogs must be kept under control to prevent them spooking the cattle, particularly while we are training them to respect the collars. Ellie Woolway, Devon Reserves Administrator
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 (5/12) ALTERATIONS TO LADIES AND GENTS WEAR, MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS AND ROMAN BLINDS, ALTERATIONS TO CURTAINS. Contact Shirley on 01395 223523. (10/12) ROOFING Woodbury based RWI Roofing Specialising in Slating, Tiling, ReRoof, New Roof, Repairs, Guttering. For a friendly, reliable service call Ray 232926, or 07988 691051 (As recmd in OurLocalExpert.co.uk). (12/12) MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER - providing services such as nail cutting, corn and callus removal, thickened nail reduction. For appointments please call 01392 949030 (10/12) 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@poshnosh.co.uk. (2/12) 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. (4/12) 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. (1/12) 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. (8/12)
31 EXE INTERIORS & HANDYMAN SERVICES for all home improvement requirements inc. painting & decorating, wall & floor tiling, bathrooms & kitchens, handyman service. Call Sean 07967 777396. (3/12) 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. (7/24) RUBBISH REMOVALS Domestic and Commercial. Environment Agency licensed. No job too small. Tel: 0800 335 7610 / 07979 841376. www.rubbishremovalsexeter.com. (4/12) PROPERTY MAINTENANCE – James Waddell Interior & Exterior, Carpentry, Flooring, Fencing & Gates, Plumbing, Decking, Bathrooms & Kitchens, General Repairs. Free Advice & Estimates 01395 263496. (3/12) 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. (1/12) 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. (1/12)
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Mike Dickson Gardening All Jobs Considered Specialist in hedge cutting, shrub pruning and grass.
Tel: 07985 697205
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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
36 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