View From the Blackdown Hills, January 2013

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by  Tindle Newspapers Ltd

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Est 2004 Issue No 97 January 2013
ORDERING
OIL?
Speak to the heating oil experts!
We are a local independent oil company
specialising in domestic customers
Mini Tanker available
Plans to build 12 affordable Collection facilities
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Owners: Andrew Hewitt and Trevor Rolph
homes in the Blackdown Hills
Monument Fuels
THE UPPER Culm Community by owning, managing and devel- expressions of interest from resi- 01823 650999
Land Trust has submitted plans to oping things such as land, homes, dents of Hemyock and Clayhidon
DYFED STEELS Mid Devon District Council build shops, pubs, allotments and even who would be eligible to live in The Fuel Depot, Foxmoor Business Park,
12 affordable homes on a site on schools, all at cost price with no these 12 homes. There have al- Wellington, TA21 9PH
STEEL Culmstock Road, Hemyock. profit margin on top; by holding ready some enquiries by potential
STOCKHOLDERS duTeh teo bpela dninsicnugs seadp pblyi ctahtei ocno uwncaisl tahffeoserd tahbinleg sa nind taruvsati lsaob tlhe afto trh feuyt uarree (cid:0)tenAan stse.parate home in Clayhidon
Bed & Breakfast
in December but has been post- generations; by being accountable which was built and designated as
& Self-Catering
Unit 1, Kingsford Rural Business poned until this month. to local people. an ‘affordable home’ has remained
suites available
The Upper Culm Community The Upper Culm CLT’s assets empty for more than a year due to
Centre, Kentisbeare, Cullompton, Land Trust was officially set up in are kept for the benefit of the com- a dispute between the developer all year round
Devon EX15 2AU March 2012 under the chairman- munity in perpetuity. CLTs are and Mid Devon District Council. Culmhead House
ship of Heather Stallard. democratic; their membership
The parishes of Hemyock and being open to all members of the Skills of the hills www.culmheadhouse.co.uk
Clayhidon came together to form village or neighbourhood. Benefits THE next Skills of the Hills an-
A full range of: the trust - a not for profit organisa- of membership include invitations nual hedge event will take Culmhead
Rounds, Squares, Flat Bars, Angle tion - set up by local people to help to CLT meetings, the chance once place on Saturday, March 9th Nr Taunton
improve or protect their village or a year to vote on a board of direc- 2013 at Yarty Farm in Mem-
Somerset
Iron, Tubes, Beams, Channels, neighbourhood. tors, access to newsletters and bury.
TA3 7DU
Run by volunteers, the Commu- other communications and the op- Hedgelaying courses by the
Sheets, Plate & Mesh etc nity Land Trust (CLT) can develop portunity to participate in more Bladkdown Hills Hedge Asso- Tel: [phone]
housing or other assets at perma- specialist working groups to use ciation have become so popu- To advertise contact
Tel: [phone] nently affordable levels for long- your skills to support the future of lar that they have added an
term community benefit. our community. extra course to their schedule Alex Phryce-Jones
Fax: [phone] A CLT does this in three ways: The land trust is now looking for on February 16th. on 01297 35750
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News from the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
2 January 2013 View from the Blackdown Hills
Beef and butterflies in the Blackdowns
by Gavin Saunders
ANYONEwho owns or fers help in several ways.
farms land on the wet, Sometimes it is useful
marshy valley sides of the future. marsh fritillary. just to have the value of
the Blackdown Hills is Despite its beauty, the These pastures are there your land for wildlife
being offered new sup- Blackdown Hills land- because they have been pointed out.
port through the Beef and scape can be very diffi- grazed for centuries, but Then some simple ad-
Butterflies project. cult to work, with steep in recent years grazing on vice on the best manage-
This locally-run project gradients, poor soils and this sort of poor land has ment for your land may
is offering free and inde- wet ground along spring become less economic, be helpful, and the proj-
pendent advice on the lines. and many sites have ect can also offer assis-
management of marshy Yet the rushy pastures fallen out of use. tance in exploring
grazing land throughout created by these condi- Once farming ceases sources of grant aid.
2013. tions are very valuable they quickly become cov- Agri-environment
It is also offering a for wildlife, supporting ered in scrub, which al- funding is limited at the
chance to join a new plants like ragged robin, though it supports some moment but if your land
local association to help devil’s-bit scabious and wildlife, leaves no place is not already in Entry
owners of this land learn heath spotted orchid, and for the previous fragile Level Stewardship
from each other and butterflies like marbled rare plants and insects. (ELS) then the project
make the best choices for whites and the very rare Beef and Butterflies of- can help you with your
ELS appInliccaotimone.
(cid:0)MARSHorchid per hectare
ELS will provide you
with an income of £30
per hectare for five years
which, although not
huge, may provide you
with some added funds
to tackle fencing or other
issues. (cid:0)CATTLEgrazing wet pasture
If you are already in
ELS or Higher Level forum for the exchange on wet pastures? links between graziers from the EU, Defra and
Stewardship (HLS), then and sharing of that expe- To this end the Beef and landowners without Leader.
the project may still be rience. and Butterflies project is suitable stock. Any landowner or man-
able to give you useful What sort of livestock helping to form a new as- The Beef and Butter- ager seeking free inde-
advice on achieving the is best suited to wet land? sociation for owners and flies project is run by pendent advice or further
prescriptions in your How vulnerable are cat- managers of wet marshy local people, and sup- information should con-
grant agreement. tle to parasites and other land in the Blackdown ported by the Blackdown tact either Len North (on
There is a huge amount infections when they Hills, which will be Hills AONB, the 01460 234309, mobile
of experience and graze these places? launched with a farm Forestry Commission 07932 144411, email
knowledge amongst the What is the best way to walk in May 2013. and Natural England. It lennorth@axis-
communities of the treat scrub invasion? Are The farm walk will be is funded by Making it connect.com) or George
Blackdown Hills of how there farmers out there open to all, and will pro- Local, a locally-managed Greenshields (on 01297
to make the best of this who are looking for spare vide an opportunity to grants scheme in the 678420, mobile 07770
marshy land, and a major grazing? How do you see grazing management Blackdown Hills and 961120, email
objective of Beef and identify the different in action, discuss funding East Devon AONB areas, George@ecologic-con-
Butterflies is to provide a plants and other wildlife possibilities and provide incorporating funding sultants.co.uk.
Devon Doctors to help wildlife
THE organisation responsible for the initiative involves the restoration of wet- bee population by providing bee homes, as
county’s urgent GP out-of-hours healthcare land areas, with the capacity to absorb at- well as campaigning for a reduction in the
has teamed up with Devon Wildlife Trust mospheric carbon in a similar way to coal use of pesticides.
(DWT) in a bid to do its bit for the county's but much more quickly, and is regarded as “Devon Doctors is already acknowledged
environment. a local, long-term and effective alternative as one of the country’s leading providers
As a social enterprise, committed to ben- to standard offset schemes. of urgent out-of hours care,” said Mr
efiting the community in which it operates, Devon Doctors will also be encouraging Wright. “However, as a social enterprise,
Devon Doctors has always attached great staff to transform their gardens, and other our corporate responsibility doesn’t stop
importance to environmental issues and locations, into bee-friendly zones in sup- there and we look forward to working in
View from the jumped at the opportunity to become a cor- port of DWT’s 2013 campaign to Get partnership with DWT and to encouraging
porate sponsor of Devon Wildlife Trust. Devon Buzzing. This vital project encour- both staff and service users to protect the
Chief executive Chris Wright said: ages the use of plants that support the local environment.”
“While our first priority is always the well-
Blackdown Hills being of our patients, we’re mindful that
we also have a responsibility to the envi-
ronment and are at pains to ensure our car-
is produced by Tindle Newspapers Ltd bon footprint is as small as possible.”
“Wherever we can we endeavour to assist
callers to Devon Doctors over the phone
We are pleased to include your news, but there will, inevitably, be occasions
when we need to visit patients who are es-
photos and events in the paper.
pecially vulnerable, and unable to get to
Please email any items for inclusion to one of our treatment centres, in their
homes. Indeed, last year our GPs visited
[email protected] more than 30,000 patients, as a result of
which our drivers clocked up more than
or telephone half-a-million miles.”
“While this is unavoidable, we’re de-
01297 446141 lighted to be able to redress the balance a
little by lending our support to DWT.”
DWT’s chief executive Harry Barton
For advertising said: “We’re thrilled to have the support of
another not-for-profit organisation, which
please contact shares our aim of keeping Devon healthy.
We look forward to working together for
Alex Phryce-Jones the benefit of the natural environment.”
In due course, Devon Doctors is looking
on
forward to supporting DWT’s Working
01297 35750 Wetlands project and, in so doing, offset- (cid:0)DEVONWildlife Trust's Tracey Ebbrell presents Devon Doctors Chrief Ex-
ting some part of its carbon footprint. The ecutive Chris Wright with a certificate in recognition of their support.
View from the Blackdown Hills January 2013 3
Measures to reduce NEWS briefs
(cid:1)RECENTheavy rain has washed away a
large section of a track in Willtown Wood,
Clayhidon, preventing the neighbouring
speeding in village landowner, who has right of access, from driv-
ing to his land.
At a recent meeting of Clayhidon Parish
DEVON and Cornwall and white lines will be Smeatharpe since May. speeding in the Honiton Council it was decided tha the coundil had no
Police have reviewed the marked along the edge of “Compared with the Rural area is in obligation to repair the track.
issue of speeding in and the road, thus giving a other two locations in the Smeatharpe.
around the 30mph zone in narrowing effect and en- Honiton Rural area where “The electronic speed (cid:1) A NATIONAL charity is seeking volunteer
Smeatharpe. couraging drivers to re- Devon & Cornwall Police warning sign alone is dog walkers in and around Honiton.
As a result the police duce speed. Other regularly set up speed clearly not working and The Cinnamon Trust helps the elderly and
have agreed to will con- "engineering lining traps, Smeatharpe experi- one wonders how many terminally ill and their pets. Sally Collins, who
tinue to station speed works" will also be con- ences far more speeding of the drivers caught by is leading the search for volunteers, said: "We
camera vehicles in the vil- sidered. than the other two areas the police were travelling seek to keep owner and pet together for as
lage periodically; to send The Campaign of Ac- monitored - in through the village to long as possible with the help of a national
resources to the area area tion for Noise and Nui- Dunkeswell 40 drivers reach the banger stadium network of volunteers who assist when day to
when events are held on sance in the Blackdowns were caught and in Awlis- or airfield motor sports day care poses a problem.
Smeatharpe Airfield; and, have waged a long cam- combe nine drivers were events such as Streetwars. Potential volunteers can call Sally on 01736
paign against speeding in caught. 758 707 or email [email protected]
Hospital volunteer when the road through the village. “Police do not state how “Readers concerned for more information. There is also a page
Smeatharpe is next resur- Prior to the police meet- many times speed traps about the danger to about volunteering page on the charity's web-
JULIETHeaton from St Andrew's Church, faced, the road markings ing, their spokesperson, were set up or how long pedestrians and others in site at www.cinnamon.org.uk
Clayhidon, had been commissioned as a will be changed so as dis- Graham Long, said: “Ac- they operated for. All the village may wish to
Hospital Chaplaincy Volunteer at Mus- courage excessive speed. cording the the Devon & three locations have part take this issue up with (cid:1) THE heating and lighting project at Buck-
grove Park Hospital, Taunton. For instance, the white Cornwall Police website, time speed warning indi- local councillors or
land St Mary Church is almost completed.
She is pictured being presented with her line along the centre of 77 drivers have already cators but it is clear that Devon and Cornwall Po-
Six chandeliers were in place ready for the
certificate by the Reverend Judith the road will be removed been caught speeding in the biggest problem with lice.”
Remembrance Service and two and a half
Lawrence
more chandeliers will be hung when they are
delivered in early January. The wiring is al-
Last chance to apply for ready in place.
(cid:1) FIREFIGHTERSwere called to Yarcombe
‘Making it Local’ funding to release a dog stuck in a badger sett.
A unit from Honiton was despatched at about
11.50am on Saturday, December 8th and a
THE DEADLINEfor the next and claims before the end of the pro- workshop for people getting to spokesperson for the fire and rescue service
A CHRISTINGLEservice was held at St An- last funding round for Making it gramme in December 2013. grips with the application form. It said: “Crews released the dog using digging
drew's Church, Clayhidon, when all those Local is January 28th 2013. Applicants must fill out an Initial will be on Tuesday January8th at equipment.”
attending received a christingle. This round is open to small Project Outline to check they are
the East Devon Business Centre,
Many extras were delivered to children grants only (under £10,000). All eligible and get some advice before Honiton; booking is essential for (cid:1) WELLINGTON Scouts have been given the
and adults who were unable to attend. projects applying for this round filling out the small grants applica- go ahead to use Gray’s Quarry in Clayhidon
The service was greatly enjoyed and re- should be planned to take place tion. this workshop by emailing the Woods for some of their outdoor activities on
freshments followed in the Church Room. March - July 2013. This gives time The Blackdown Hills Business Making it Local team. on makin- a trial basis for the next year.
for submitting and processing the Association is running a funding [email protected]
Don’t be afraid of
the Mouse!
A little computer knowledge
can make a big difference.
Our friendly tutors come to you. They teach
popular topics such as emailing and shopping
online. One to one tuition, one step at a time.
Call us FREE on
0800 862 0666
4 January 2013 View from the Blackdown Hills
Yarcombe Young Farmers flying high
(cid:0)FLYING HIGH: Club members present the cheque to an air ambulance representative Yarcombe Young Farmers' Club members raised more than £2,100 for
Devon Air Amulance Trust this year. The air ambulance is the club's chosen charity for 2012 and the year's fundraising programme yielded a total of £2,120.
Club member Rebecca Laramy said the money was raised through various activities including a pantomime re-run with an auction. She added: "Other activites
included a sponsored bike ride where six of our members cycled from Yarcombe to Weston-super-Mare, our yearly raft race, a car treasure hunt, a rounders/fam-
ily evening and other small events."
MST AUCTIONEERS Culm Valley Young Farmers
Hangar 1, Airfield Industrial Estate, Dunkeswell,
Nr Honiton, Devon EX14 4LB
MONTHLY AUCTIONS CULMValley Young Farmers held a
OF GOOD QUALITY MODERN OFFICE FURNITURE: new members evening in December
Including many radial desks, matching storage cupboards and good which attracted many potential new
quality office chairs, plus everything for the modern office. members. A spokesperson said: “It was
a great chance to get to know everyone
STOCK CLEARANCE: New good quality oak & pine furniture.
with some fun and games for everyone
COMPUTERS, HOUSE CLEARANCES, ENGINEERING, PLANT AND MA- to get involved in!”
CHINERY, FORKLIFTS, WOODWORKING, WAREHOUSE EQUIPMENT, ETC Member Maggie Palmer has won a
Devon YFC Junior Travel Scholarship
which means that she will be jetting off
For catalogues & further information: www.mstauctioneers.co.uk
next summer thanks to some very kind
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
sponsors. A group of members will also
be heading for Val Thorens in the
CHELSTON French Alps for some skiing this month.
Members have also been taking part in
the “How to be a better shepherd”
course in conjuction with the Laura
Persey Trust and Mount Vets.
CARPET MILLS Thre have also been outings to Chel-
tenham Races and ice skating. A Christ-
mas meal followed by a disco which
was held at the Beambridge Inn with
around 50 members and their parents at-
CASH & CARRY READY TODAY tending.
The young farmers have decided that
MASSIVE DISCOUNTS OFF ALL OUR
their charity for the coming year will be
ROLLS & REMNANTS Chicks. Chicks gives respite to disad-
vantaged children, this may be children
HUGE STOCKS OF CARPETS & VINYLS living in poverty or children from abu-
sive backgrounds for example.
DELIVERY & FITTING CAN BE New members are always welcome to
join Culm Valley Young Farmers and it
ARRANGED
is not necessary to be a farmer. The next
meeting will be held on Monday 14th
WE SPECIALISE IN DISCONTINUED
January at Forbes Lounge, Hemyock,
AND CLEARANCE RANGES 8(cid:0)pmPi.ctured are the members who
took part in a netball tournament
Tel: [phone] in Honiton. The team consisted of
Kirsty John, Emily Davis, Emily
Vallis, Dolly Boyce, Lauren
Adams, Louisa Squire and Mag-
Chelston Business Park, Castle Road, gie Palmer. They came fourth. The
group has also taken part in pool
Wellington, Somerset TA21 9JQ and darts against Sid & Otter YFC
in the last few weeks.
View from the Blackdown Hills January 2013 5
Countryside volunteering could
be your new year’s resolution
LOCAL people are being en- pulling. Or people can get in- standing Natural Beauty.” heritage amongst local resi- West, said: “The Blackdown
couraged to fight the Christ- volved in less physical work, Regular conservation volun- dents and communities, and to Hills AONB is one of the south
mas flab, beat the winter blues such as helping out with im- teer Martin Taylor said: “I vol- help safeguard national and re- west’s most unspoilt habitats,
and meet new people by get- portant wildlife and heritage unteer in the Blackdown Hills gional priority Biodiversity rich in the variety of its
ting involved in a countryside surveys. Activities are run by because it matters. Initially I Action Plan species. The proj- wildlife, and encompassing a
volunteering activity in 2013. experienced volunteer leaders felt that it mattered in an envi- ect will use five heritage learn- range of landscapes from
A variety of practical conser- from organisations such as the ronmental way, now I feel that ing themes in interpretation on grassland to heath and mire.
vation opportunities will be National Trust, Devon and it matters much more to my specific sites and in informa- We welcomed the opportunity
available in the Blackdown Somerset Wildlife Trusts, the own sense of wellbeing. You tion provided to volunteer to be able to support this proj-
Hills AONB as part of the ‘A RSPB and the Neroche Con- give and you don't always groups; the themes are: graz- ect, which will provide the op-
Force for Nature’ project, servation Volunteers know what you will get back, ing management, woodland portunity for many more
which is supported by a grant Catherine Beedell, Black- but the overwhelming reward management, historic environ- people to become involved
of £39,100 from the Heritage down Hills Countryside Volun- is that of belonging to a team. ment interpretation, butterfly with and understand the natu-
Lottery Fund (HLF). teering Hub Coordinator said: As individuals we matter, as a life histories and plant, tree, in- ral heritage of this fascinating
The opportunities available “Taking part in a volunteering team we achieve.” sect, bird and mammal identi- area.”
will include physical activities activity in the great outdoors is The overall aim of the ‘A fication. To get started go to
such as scrub clearance, cop- a fantastic way to get healthier, Force for Nature’ project is to Speaking about the grant www.blackdownhillsaonb.org.
picing, woodland management as well as doing your bit to raise levels of awareness and award, Richard Bellamy, uk/volunteering or call 01823
and Himalayan balsam help conserve this Area of Out- understanding of their natural HLF’s acting Head of South 680681.
Recognition for
local volunteers
A LEADINGlocal charity, Devon Wildlife Trust,
has recently achieved the Investing in Volun-
teers Quality Standard, recognising the excel-
lent work it does with volunteers.
Devon Wildlife Trust regularly receives help
from more than 300 volunteers, all of whom give
up their time and talents to help the charity’s vital
work for local wildlife.
The Trust’s Dawn Lenn, who coordinates their
efforts said: “This has come as wonderful news.
We try hard to manage volunteers well and to
give people the opportunity to contribute posi-
tively to nature conservation.
“It’s lovely to know we are getting it right. The
benefit to Devon Wildlife Trust’s work is tremen-
dous with the number of hours volunteers do-
nate each year in the tens of thousands.”
Investing in Volunteers is the UK quality stan-
dard for all organisations involving volunteers. (cid:1)FLOODINGin the Blackdowns
It aims to improve the quality of the volunteering
experience for all volunteers and for organisa-
tions to acknowledge the enormous contribution
made by volunteers.
The award scheme is managed by the UK Vol- Councillors call for more
unteering Forum and delivered by Volunteering
England.
Devon Wildlife Trust was assessed against a
range of best practice standards and proved to self help to limit flooding
excel in all aspects of working with its volun-
teers. AT THE December meeting of Clayhidon Parish However, in this time of austerity, the county council
Ms Lenn added: “DWT was set up by volun- Council there was considerable discussion on the state does not have the resources to clear ditches and drains
teers 50 years ago, and volunteers have re- of roads inthe Blackdowns following the recent floods. as regularly as in the past and the parish council feel
mained central to its activities ever since. I hope In some places the road surface has been washed that parishioners should be prepared to help by clearing
that achieving this award in our 50th anniversary away and many culverts and drains were overwhelmed drains and culverts near their property to enable the
year will help demonstrate to everyone who ever by the quantity of water and debris. water to run away more easily.
helped DWT just how highly they are regarded.” Councillor Ray Radford agreed to arrange for a meet- Residents said that the flooding had been the worst
Devon Wildlife Trust's volunteers come from all ing in the parish with the road’s foreman to look at the for 30 years with torrential rain falling on already wa-
backgrounds and all parts of the county. The problems. terlogged ground scouring soil and stones from fields.
range of tasks they undertake varies from office
administration to undertaking practical manage-
ment tasks on the Trust's nature reserves.
Anyone wishing to join as a volunteer should DULFORD
visit www.devonwildlifetrust.org or call 01392
279244.
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6January 2013 View from the Blackdown Hills
Where can village Dunkeswell circuit is the place to race
build 35 new homes
HE 2012 season at the Dunkeswell Karti Club awarded them equal status as champions.
provided some of the closest and most compet- James Clarkson was peerless in the Senior Max class
by the year 2026? Titive racing in the club’s history with driving leading from round one. It was left to Stewart Baker
standards also improving throughout the year. and Tyler Weedon to battle it out for second and third.
EAST Devon District Council is preparing a ‘Vil-
lages Plan’, not to be confused with the Parish Looking back over the year, 931 drivers competed The youth of Weedon saw him gain the upper hand in
Plan, detailing policies for certain villages includ- at the South West's premier circuit with numbers the early rounds as Baker held a watching brief. By
ing Dunkeswell. peaking at 121 for the July round. If any circuit is round seven, Baker’s persistence and experience en-
The plan will set out boundaries for future devel- bucking the national trend in entries, Dunkeswell is abled him to pull out a four-point lead and move into
opment, identify land to be allocated for housing at the forefront of the revival. A flowing, super second in the championship. Out front, Clarkson was
and possibly other uses and any other relevant smooth track with close and competitive racing putting points between him the rest of the grid finish-
policies. aligned with a friendly atmosphere has attracted driv- ing 43 points ahead of Baker who in turn was 11
The Villages Plan will need to show where 35 ers from all over the country. points clear of Weedon in third. Fopurth place driver,
new homes can be built in Dunkeswell by 2026. (cid:0)(cid:0) The NKRA chose the circuit to host the prestigious Ashley Lewis, having his best season in Seniors so far,
Landowners have already had the opportunity to Formula Blue championship and a tie up with took the honours for the club In the Dragon Challenge.
put forward land that they are willing to make Llandow Kart Club with the Dragon Challenge saw It was brilliant to see a resurgence in the 177 class
available for development and these sites are most of the silverware crossing the bridge back to the ings but by round three Izaac Channing was topping
with grids topping 15 plus in most rounds. Defending
shown on the Dunkeswell website. West Country. Interestingly, weather wise, despite the the table and would hold it to take not only the class
Most of these sites have been assessed to see tracks reputation, the dry weather out qualified the championship but also the South West Champion title champion Darren Lane had a slow start but by round
whether there are physical/technical/viability con- wet by 6 to 3 although when it rained it was biblical. on the way. Stephens kept him honest all the way and three had got into his stride and was on top of the
straints to building housing in the village. The re- The Honda cadets provided some great action, the it only by a margin of six points that he lost out com- standings. The hugely experienced Rob Knight,
sults may be viewed at exuberance of youth and most importantly, big grids. ing second but was boosted by his winning the Dragon fended of Wayne Stone to take second in the champi-
www.eastdevon.gov.uk/shlaa. Over the eight rounds, two drivers dominated the top Challenge. David Spillers consistence got his third in onship with Stone some 69 points behind him in third
The plans also show important features, such as of the standings - Ryan Luscombe and Jordan Hur- his first full season. place. but could console himself with his victory in
landscape designations, existing built-up area man. Luscombe's early championship lead was lost Junior Max and Sam Morgan's early lead was cut the Dragon Challenge.
boundaries, conservation areas and floodplains, after the first round and he had to fight Hurman to get short by round three when James Moorcroft domi- As with all racing, nothing would be possible with-
paanDr auisenhrkiioeansl wevrieeslw li n.P(cid:0) (cid:0)aOrcistohb Cero uanncdi ll assotu mgohnt tthh e s veinetw as r eo-f tita kbea ctkh eb yti trloe ubnyd 1f8o upro. Ainfttse rw tihtha tH, huer mmaani nsteacinoendd iat ntod snoamteed gforoodm r ethsuelnts oann.d Lmiaomve dW iniltloia smecso nwda isn pthuett cinhga min- eosupt ethciea tlilrye lceisrsc uwito mrka onfa tgheer ,c Piracuuli tB mroamnahgaemm,e tnhte g MrouSpA,
port to East Devon District Council setting out the Tom Canning in third. Hurman and Luscombe also- pionship. Moorcroft was the class of the field at the officials, the medical teams and, of note, the mar-
preferred sites and issues raised. took the honours in the Dragon Challenge showing South West Championships when despite not finishing shalling team who have remained focused and profes-
(cid:0)The parish-council sought the views of exceptional sportsmanship by electing to share the a heat still managed to take the title. Williams best ef- sional whatever the conditions. Special thanks must
Dunkeswell residents on a number of issues, in- title rather than see who would win it on count back. forts to hold second failed when he was nudged into also go to the drivers and mechanics who have pro-
cluding preferred sites for housing development. The Comer cadets was a small grid and in reality third spot by Morgan who managed to accrue enough vided the swelling crowds of spectators with some
There are three areas put forward by their with Alex Quinn away on Super 1 duties, it was left points in the last round after the dropped scores were close, competitive and most importantly safe racing
landowners, each of which could accommodate to Tommy Foster and Kieran Channing, the only two taken into account. Both Moorcroft and Morgan were and whose attendance have proven beyond doubt that
the 35 dwellings proposed for the period to 2026. club drivers to compete in all eight rounds to fight it successful in the Dragon Challenge after the stewards Dunkeswell continues to be the place to race.
The area adjacent to the sports field is intended out for the title. Foster’s experience showed through
for the school but any part of the remaining areas and he dominated the races that Quinn was absent
would suffice. from. Foster took the title with Channing having an MP declare new golf club facilities open
excellent season in second, despite only competing in
Send your Blackdowns four of the eight rounds, Quinn was third. Foster's ON Aday that saw torren-
stories to year was capped by his victory in the Dragon Chal- tial rain and gale force
lenge. winds, the Lady Captain of
[email protected]
MiniMax and another Channing was on the hunt for Honiton Golf Club, Jackie
a title! Sam Stephens took an early lead in the stand- Seager, took the decision
to hold the opening cere-
mony for a new on-course
facility in the warmth and
dry of the clubhouse, much
to the relief of those who
attended.
Mrs Seager opened the
event by welcoming Neil
Parish, MP for Tiverton
and Honiton.
Join the Blackdown Hills She said that the project
had taken three years to
complete starting with the
Business Association in 2013 initial planning application
stage. This was followed
by the completion of sev-
We have been supporting businesses for over 30 years etiroanl sv efroyr dloettateilreyd faupnpdliincag-, (cid:1) DRY IN THE CLUBHOUSE: MP Neil Parish declares the new golf
club facilties open
where the goalposts
Join us and you will get free online directory entries, discounts on changed every year, to re-
advertising in the 2013 Blackdown Hills Directory and in the searching suitable products She then invited Mr Par- imbalance between the ments to accompany
View from the Blackdown Hills and finally the building rish to cut the ribbon planning and preparation Jackie Seager to visit the
construction, which had which had been carefully stages of a project versus site and see the new facil-
Join us and you will get invites to the Honiton show, Taunton markets, taMkerns twSeoa wgeere kths.a nked all gdrraapphed oaf crtohses nae wp heoctoo-- tthhee awcoturka.l time to carry out ity for himself. He said
later that he was very im-
FREE training, socials and networking events those people who had been friendly ‘on-course’ toilets. One could certainly not
involved in the project and Mr Parish replied by say- have accused Mr Parish of pressed by the technology
Membership is £50 per year said that everyone at the ing how pleased he was to cutting corners on the day involved in the installation,
club was indebted to Sport attend and that as a Mem- for, having spent time talk- which requires no electric-
For more information, please contact Val Baker on 01823 681484 England for awarding the ber of Parliament, he was ing to everyone who was ity, water or drainage.
or email [email protected] www.bhba.org.uk grant and for their support. only too well aware of the present, he braved the ele-
Point-to-point season gets underway
LAST REMINDER Businesses are invited
THE WESSEX area Point-to Point trio Picaroon, who refused to race at Jane Western has four horses at
to advertise in the 2013 edition of the season kicks off on Sunday. January Wadebridge, Double Mead and Rain- Forde Abbey near Chard. Jane has
6th 2013, with the Larkhill Racing bow Tree. Newcomers are Ruby retained dual 2012 winner Benedic-
Blackdown Hills Directory Club fixture. Kew, who was fifth in her sole outing tus, who will be aimed at hunter
Twenty-three meetings are sched- for licensed trainer Alan King, and chases, and Last Minute Notice, who
uled in Wessex, culminating in the the ex-David Pipe-trained dual hur- ran a promising race at Bratton
Adverts from £45 Weston & Banwell’s evening fixture dle race winner Arrayan, who started Down in May. Newcomers are
25,000 door to door delivery by Royal Mail Distribution Spring 2013 on Wednesday, May 15th. favourite for the 2011 Imperial Cup Shootin The Breeze, a winner at
48 pages including photos by Pauline Rook For a free colour leaflet detailing at Sandown. Thurles in February 2012, and Gypsy
all the meetings in the Wessex area, Sue Popham has four horses at her Jack, the winner of two of his three
Do you want to take an advert in the 2013 edition of the Blackdown Hills Directory? points when trained by Richard Bar-
send an SAE to Gill Armstrong, Pan- Wellington stables, including Carlos
Over 300 businesses take an advert in every edition. tiles, Penselwood, Wincanton, Som- Gardel, a winner at Wadebridge last ber.
Shaakier and Stantway Surprise
erset BA9 8NF. season. Newcomers include Don-
LAST FEW ADVERT SPACES LEFT SO YOU WILL HAVE TO BE QUICK have retired, so Colin and Julie
Chloe Roddick made a flying start caster purchases Only The Best, who
Please contact Val Baker at the BHBA for more details and to book on when Mahonia and Combehay won was second at Stratford in April, and Bright of Combe St Nicholas near
Chard will be represented by Irish
01823 681484 or email [email protected]. at Wadebridge on December 9th, Getaway Driver, who has been bumper and hurdle race winner
while Richard Barber got off the placed five times under Rules. Some Slam, who was bought at
BHBA at St Ivel House, Station Road, Hemyock, Cullompton, Devon EX15 3SJ. mark with PPORC winner Glass’n A Swansbrook, the winner of a bumper, Ascot in June out of Gary Moore’s
E: [email protected] or T: 01823 681484 www.bhba.org.uk. Half. Alex Dunn has five horses at hurdle race and chase under Rules, yard. Michael Legg will take the
West Buckland including her prolific completes the team. ride.
View from the Blackdown Hills January 2013 7
SALES STARTS
FRIDAY 28TH DECEMBER
Huge discounts throughout our Furniture,
Carpet, Rug & Curtain Department
FABRIC DEPT. 20% off SANDERSON, CROWSON, &
HARLEQUIN fabrics 20% off SUNWAY BLINDS
G Plan
Stressless Recliners
Ercol
Parker Knoll
Collins & Hayes
Relyon, Vi-Spring, Tempur,
Dunpillio & Harrison beds
massively reduced
Massive Carpet discounts on Brintons,
Brockway, Axminster & Ryalux
8 January 2013 View from the Blackdown Hills
Challenge for Second thriller for local author
young writers A MAN who lives near Honiton is about to ers and almost every review says that they
have a second book published this year. can't wait for the sequel. Now it's here.
CALLING all budding young writers in the Black- Glyn Smith-Wild decided to retire from "The discovery and development of my
down Hills. work in finance to concentrate on writing in- characters has given me a new lease of life
The Countryside Alliance has launched a stead. His decision came after having been – almost a parallel existence. I only wish I
Young Countryside Writer competition to give involved in a car accident and his debut, had retired much earlier.
12-18 year olds with a passion for the country- Sanctuary, was released on May 29th. The "When I started writing Sanctuary, I
side a chance to write for its membership mag- follow-up, Repercussions, went on sale on thought it would be a one off, but my char-
azine. December 12th. acters had different ideas.
All entrants need to do is submit 300 words on The main character in both books is named "The story lines that weaved through Sanc-
what the British countryside means to them and
Ben Coverdale and Sanctuary starts with tuary just had to be continued.
what their favourite aspects are.
Ben's decision to start a new life in France "My characters are quite forceful when it
Issues covered could be farming, field sports,
after his love-life in England collapsed. A comes to the story lines, and I ignore them
local food, the changing seasons, conservation
story of suspense and intrigue emerged - and at my peril.
or just walking the dog – this is a wide-ranging
Repercussions is the second installment in "Many is the time, having written a thou-
competition.
The judging panel consists of Countryside Al- the trilogy. sand words or so during the day, that I am
liance Executive Chairman Barney White-Spun- Mr Smith-Wild said: "When, during a pe- woken by one or other of my characters say-
ner, Shooting Times Editor Alastair Balmain, riod of depression, it was suggested by a ing: 'I wouldn’t have said that' or 'There’s no
Countrymans Weekly Editor Tracey Allen and friend that I should write a book, I didn't way I would have done that'.
Michael Clayton, author and former Horse & think the idea was a very good one. "And sure enough, when I look back at the
Hound Editor who has written extensively for "After all, I had been in finance for most script, I see that they are right. Weird or
many sporting titles. of my working life. what?"
Countryside Alliance Executive Chairman Bar- "How could I now become a writer?" When asked what he likes to do when not
ney White-Spunner commented: “This competi- But he eventually decided to have a go, and writing, he replied: "That’s not much of the
tion offers a chance for budding young writers to found that he loved writing. The plot and time these days, but I do enjoy the beautiful
gain some valuable experience and confidence. characters developed and his depression al- countryside where I live.
“The Countryside Alliance is keen to encour- most disappeared. "I enjoy good food, red wine, dark choco-
age the next generation to get involved in the "If you enjoy reading my books half as late music, but not necessarily in that order."
countryside and writing about their experiences much as I enjoyed writing them, then I will Mr Smith-Wild has a website with helpful
is a vital part of that. We have an experienced be very happy. tips for aspiring writers at
judging panel, all of us passionate about reflect- "The first book was well received by read- www.otter2000.com (cid:0)GLYNSmith-Wild
ing our countryside through the written word. I
know there are many talented young writers out
there and look forward to reading their work.
A health check for your business to make it more efficient
• This competition is open to 12-18 year olds.
300 words on “what the British countryside
means to you” should be sent to news@coun- IF YOU are a small business This is a project funded by contribution from you. on the last Monday of every where you want to get to - and
tryside-alliance.org by Tuesday 2nd April 2013.(cid:0) based in the Blackdown Hills Making it Local to provide busi- If you are looking to start a month. You can book your place how to get there.
• Submissions may appear on the Countryside area and would like one to one, ness advice in the area. business, you can meet like online or just go along. For further information on all
Alliance website(cid:0) confidential and practical advice BIP's fully qualified and expe- minded people, share ideas and If you are looking for advice the services available from BIP,
• The prize is the chance to write for the Coun- to help improve your profits and rienced advisors can meet you at get some practical business ad- and guidance on completing a
visit their website or call on free
tryside Alliance’s membership magazine in look at ways to make your busi- a location and time convenient to vice by going along to their free Business Plan for your business,
2013. ness more efficient, then BIP can you, and there are hundreds of Enterprise Clubs which take they will take you through the phone [phone] from land-
help you with a Business Health pounds of support and advice place 10 am – 12 pm at East process in easy bite-sized lines, or 0330 1000338 from mo-
Check. available to you for just a £20 Devon Business Centre, Honiton chunks, so you know exactly biles and landlines.
Pring and Sons serving the local community
in the Blackdown Hills and Culm Valley
with four generations of tradition providing
a personalised, friendly and professional service,
to meet each family's individual requirements.
Most arrangements made in your own home.
Tel : [phone] Mob : [phone] (24hr)
Email : [email protected]
www.pring-and-son-funeral-directors.co.uk
Culmstock Road, Hemyock EX15 3RJ
View from the Blackdown Hills January 2013 9
134 HIGH STREET, HONITON, DEVON EX14 1JP
01404 42436 – www.bestsofhoniton.co.uk
CUSTOMER CAR PARK OFF OF KING STREET WITH ACCESS TO REAR OF STORE
Home service selection on Electric Lift & Rise Recliners,
Fireside chairs and Carpets, Vinyls and Karndean
CLEARANCE LINES: BEDS - BEDSTEADS
Harrisons 6’ Ruby zip & link set RRP £3749 Clearing £1200
GUEST BEDS - MATTRESSES
Sherborne Silverdale Sofa Bed was £987 Clearing £658
3’ Sephora Memory Foam mattress was £399 Now £149 ELECTRIC BEDS
Sweet Dreams Chateau mattress To Clear £49 BUNK BEDS - PILLOWS
Cintique Winchester High Sit Chair RRP £731 Clearing £199
HEADBOARDS - DUVETS 10% OFF ALL CARPET & VINYL PRICES
Cintique Cheshire chair RRP 490 Clearing £199
Eve Nest of tables was £115 To Clear £89 CARPETS - VINYLS - KARNDEAN
Anbercraft tile top nest was £325 To Clear £200 RECLINERS
Versailles nest of tables was £168 To Clear £99
LIFT & RISE CHAIRS
Mahogany Hampton Nest RRP £519 Clearing £149
Staten Oak Dining Table & 4 Chairs was £753 Clearing £499 CHAIRS - SUITES - STOOLS
Staten Console table was £250 To Clear £175
SOFA BEDS
Birlea Weston Bunk bed was £220 To Clear £99
DINING - LIVING AND
BEDROOM FURNITURE
CONTRACT
DESIGN
NEW
REINFORCED
2013
BASE
NATURAL
COLECTION
HARRISONS 2013 NEW BED TAILOR NATURAL COLLECTION MOONRAKER BEDS - WILTSHIRE 1000
AMETHYST 4000 DOUBLE DIVAN SSP £1199 NOW £960 ORTHO FIRM DIVAN SINGLE SALE PRICE £280
SINGLE SSP £799 NOW £615 / KING SIZE SSP £1339 NOW £1060 DOUBLE SIZE £390 / KINGSIZE £439
GENUINE
SALE
PRICES
Caxton furniture – Extending table with
4 x (523) chairs in oak, teak or mahogany finish
AN ASTONISHING PRICE £385 –
WHILE STOCKS LAST
10 January 2013 View from the Blackdown Hills
Walk into a new life
Kathy Arnold Therapies
Kathy Offers a wide range of therapies including:
Aromatherapy;
Aromatherapy is the use of Essential Oils, which are
natural substances, extracted from fruits, flowers,
FoR years Christine to lose weight Christine had a cholesterol level for letting this happen. I paper and was drawn to right to be there. I was roots, trees or herbs. Carefully chosen Essential Oils
Richards has battled could not find the “diet” of 10.6, double the ac- wasn’t blaming anyone a story of one person’s totally reassured that I can influence the body and mind, being uplifting or
with her weight, and for her. She became ceptable level, and else, it was me who had battle with weight and would get the support I relaxing, stimulating or soothing. The aroma of the oils
about 10 years ago de- more and more solitary being told she was allowed it to get this far, their journey to success. needed throughout, alone stimulates the brain to bring about a sense of
veloped back problems with no confidence and grossly obese. and it was only me who “I was consumed by a and I knew I had done relaxation and to refresh the mood.
that were life changing got caught in a vicious Said Christine “I cried could change it”. realisation that this the right thing by Reflexology;
and left her battling spiral of ill health and myself all the way home The turning point came could be about me!!!! It going” Reflexology works on the principle that there are re-
pain ever since. Despite comfort eating. It was a and continued to com- on a shopping trip when was the wake up call I “Although I was scared flexes in the feet that relate to all the glands, organs
being advised by her Dr shock being told she fort eat and hate myself I picked up the local needed as this seemed when I first weighed, the and parts of the body, and by massaging those re-
more real than a warn- weight started to drop flexes we can relieve congestion, release the vital en-
ing from my Dr!” off and all by enjoying ergy glow to all parts of the body and stimulate the
With the support of her food I loved. I still have body's natural healing powers.
chiudsebda int dw, aCs htirmistei ntoe jdoein- the card I received for Indian Head Massage;
a Slimming Group in receiving my first ½ Indian Head Massage was first introduced in the UK in
Honiton. “Tuesday stone, and one year on I 1981 and has expanded to include part of the back,
came and the day have now achieved my the shoulders, the neck and the arms. This form of
seemed so long, my own Personal Target massage is used mainly for relaxation and combating
nerves were in tatters, Weight and couldn’t be Stress. It is useful for the relief of headaches, eye strain
but I knew I had to go to happier. I walk every- or muscle tension in the neck or shoulders. It may im-
Slimming World that where now, I have my prove circulation, promote hair growth, improve con-
evening. I actually confidence back and centration, help with the dispersal of toxins, aid
walked to the meeting even help Sharon in mental tiredness and emotional stress.
and it was the hardest group now. I even go Hopi Ear Candles;
walk I had ever made. I out socially which was a Over the last 19 years, the use of Hopi Ear Candles has
stood outside the door no-no before ......I have gained popularity and is increasingly sought after by
my heart pounding and my life back” people looking for a natural therapy for problems such
my legs like jelly, and on Christine attends Slim- as ringing in the ears, painful sinuses, balance and
stepping in realised ming World at the Honi- inner ear problems, snoring, excessive or compacted
there were some famil- ton Baptist Church ear wax, headaches of all types, painful nerves in the
iware refa csems ilainngd apte omplee which is held on Tues- face, “Swimmer’s Ear”, “Diver’s Ear”, flying problems,
which is not what I ex- days @ 5.30pm & stress and nervousness.
pected. The moment 7.30pm and also on Kathy qualified in Reflexology in 1995 and Aromather-
Sharon, the Consultant, Wednesdays @ 9.30am apy in 1996, followed by Indian Head Massage and
Before After introduced herself to & 11.30am. For more in- Hopi Ear Candling. Kathy has been practising from her
me I felt some sort of formation please call treatment room in Buckland St Mary, between Chard
inner peace as it felt Sharon on 01404 41513. and Taunton, since moving to the area in 2010.
Kathy is a member of the Complementary Therapists
Association which is part of Embody and fully insured,
see www.embodyforyou.com. She is also registered
with CNHC (Complementary & Natural Healthcare
Council).
Kathy's treatment room is in her home in Buckland St
Mary. After the consultation, she turns down the lights
to create a relaxing atmosphere and always offers her
clients water or herbal tea to drink. It is an unhurried,
homely atmosphere and not at all clinical or conveyor-
belt-like. There is free parking outside. All treatments
are tailored to the individual, and are preceded by a
consultation about lifestyle, health and diet. Advice on
self- treatment and lifestyle changes can also be pro-
vided.
Therapeutic Breaks
LODGE HOUSE operates as a B&B with currently one
large guest room with a king sized bed for 2 people.
Therefore complementary therapies can be combined
with an overnight stay, making the treatment even
more relaxing and enjoyable.
For further information see the website www.kath-
yarnoldtherapies.co.uk or contact her on 01460
TUESDAYS@ 5.30pm & 7.30pm 234693 or email her at [email protected]
WEDNESDAYS@ 9.30am & 11.30am
Kathy Arnold ITEC CNHC MCThA (Embody)
Honiton Baptist Church, High Street
Tel: Sharon 07963337178 / 01404 41513
FREE JOINING VOUCHER IN THE DAILY MIRROR 5TH – 9TH JANUARY
OVER NEW YEAR WEEK THE TUESDAY GROUP WILL
RUN ON WEDS EVENING (FOR ONE WEEK ONLY) 17 years experience of Reflexology,
Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage and
Career Opportunities available in the area. Hopi Ear Candles
Please call Sharon for more information helping you reduce stress and improve relaxation
Therapeutic breaks at our B&B
www.kathyarnoldtherapies.co.uk
Tel: [phone]
Based in Buckland St Mary