Experience Watermouth Castle’s scare attraction: ‘Descend into Darkness'

A haunted castle with a twisted maze of horrors… This October, be first to experience Watermouth Castle’s first-ever immersive scare attraction:‘Descend into Darkness’… 

Watermouth Castle has a new owner. His desire: to create an amusement park for local people to come and enjoy and share his wonderful new home. Little is known about this mysterious benefactor. Some say he is eccentric. Some say he is mad. Some say he is… INSANE. 

Get ready to be spooked! Watermouth Castle, nestled in the heart of North Devon, is excited to announce its hair-raising Halloween scare event, promising thrills and chills for all horror lovers, fright fiends, and all those who love a good fright…

Do you dare to come face-to-face with terror...? With bone-chilling attractions, live scare actors, and heart-pounding themed areas, this event is not for the faint of heart. Join us if you dare for a night of spine-tingling fun, and unforgettable scares.

 

Do you dare to come face-to-face with terror…?

The castle’s multiple different immersive scare zones include:

• Cursed Forest: a bone-chilling woodland trail of howling wolves, clanking chains, and hanging trees

• Carnival of Clowns: this twisted fairground is a freakshow of horrifying jokers, bloody face paint and maniacal laughter…

• The Mad Maze: beware; a gang of the undead scarecrows have to come to life– and now they wander the twisted paths of the castle’s maze, looking for their next victim… you!

• Voodoo Valley: journey down the river of restless spirits; just make sure you don’t become yet another one of the lost souls trapped on its waters…

• The Haunted Castle: when the castle doors slam closed, you’ll find yourself trapped in a hellscape of cobwebs, cursed animatronics, and haunted robots. And only the bravest will dare to complete their journey with a descent intothe bowels of the castle itself – the demented dungeon…

 

Run by Catfish Productions, in partnership with Watermouth Castle. 

Not suit able for under 12s or wheelchair users. Under 16s must have an accompanying adult.

The experience lasts approximately one hour, For tickets and early bird rates. Contact  www.watermouthcastle.com

 

Water Mouth Castle Media Release

About Watermouth Castle

Watermouth Castle is a beloved attraction in Ilfracombe. The Castle offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides to enchanting play areas, Watermouth Castle is where memories are made and adventures begin.

Watermouth Castle is part of The Escapade Group which comprises indoor and outdoor play attractions including Hobbledown adventure park in Surrey, Hobbledown Heath in London, Gripped aerial adventure park in London, and indoor play centres Kidspace Adventures in Croydon and Romford.

 

Edenmore Nursing Home Commemorates D-Day with 1940's Party

Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe, North Devon, recently hosted a heartwarming 1940's themed party to commemorate D-Day. This special event brought together residents (fondly referred to as family members), and team members in a nostalgic celebration that paid tribute to the fallen service men and women in Normandy.

The D-Day commemoration event was a collaborative effort, capturing the essence of the 1940s with authentic decorations, 1940’s music, and a little bit of dancing. Family members and team members dressed in polka-dots, headscarves, and khaki, with a prize awarded for the best-dressed. The home was decorated with patriotic bunting and Union Jack table cloths, evoking a feeling of life 80 years ago.

The home enjoyed for a traditional afternoon tea, within a vintage atmosphere. Edith Ozelton, a beloved family member, enjoyed a glass of Shloer, a non-alcoholic sparkling juice drink. The menu included homemade bread with jam and butter, Spam sandwiches, and of course, cake.

"Edenmore’s approach to life recognises the values, beliefs, and identity of each person," added Home Manager Gayle Cooper. "By understanding a person’s life history and journey, we strive to support the continuation of life of our family members.” “This event was a beautiful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the spirit of patriotism. D-Day 1940's party is just one example of the many ways Edenmore Nursing Home nurtures a warm and inclusive community atmosphere.

Edenmore Nursing Home Media Release 14 June 2024

To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

Voters to quiz political parties on environmental issues

Voters in Devon are being given a unique chance to ask the main political parties about their environmental policies and plans at an on-line ‘Nature Hustings’

The charity Devon Wildlife Trust is staging the event on Monday 10 June at 6pm. The hustings will be on-line only and accessible via Zoom. The hustings are open to everybody and free to attend. However, people must pre-book for the event at https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/election-24

The General Election candidates who will be attending the hustings are:

• Selaine Saxby, Conservatives, North Devon
• Robert Bagnall, Green Party, South Devon
• Richard Foord, Liberal Democrat, Honiton & Sidmouth
• Steve Race, Labour, Exeter

The hustings is being staged by the charity Devon Wildlife Trust. Its Chief Executive is Nick Bruce-White. Nick said:

“Research shows that issues around nature and the wider environment are a key factor in making up people’s minds on how they vote. Here in Devon, where our natural assets are a major factor in our economy and quality of life, nature is a top issue in this General Election.

We think it’s important that voters are given the opportunity to hear what the main political parties plan to do to ensure that Devon and the UK can meet the environmental challenges we all face. I’m sure topics such as climate change, river quality, the future of farming and fisheries, and the decline of once common wildlife will all come up in the hustings. It should be a fascinating evening and I’d urge people to attend.”

The format of the event will see candidates answer questions from Devon Wildlife Trust and from conservation charity partners the RSPB and the Woodland Trust. There will also be an opportunity for the public attending to submit their nature and environment-themed questions during the event.

People unable to attend the Nature Hustings will be able to catch up on the event via Devon Wildlife Trust’s YouTube channel.

 

‘Nature Hustings’ participants for Devon Wildlife Trust on the 10th June

Devon Wildlife Trust Media Release 4th June 2024
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Devon Wildlife Trust is a leading environmental charity, with more than 36,000 members. The charity manages 60 nature reserves across Devon, including a range of beautiful landscapes such as woodlands, meadows, wetlands and heaths. Devon Wildlife Trust relies on charitable donations, grants and the generous support of its members and the general public to raise more than £5million every year. Money raised is spent maintaining our work for wildlife conservation and education in Devon, for present and future generations. More at www.devonwildlifetrust.org

Honouring Tony Haynes: A Legacy of Dedication and Service in the RAF

In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, we are celebrating the military service of Anthony 'Tony' John Haynes who has chosen to continue his life’s journey at Heanton Nursing Home. His military journey began on 5th January 1971, when he joined the RAF with a desire to follow in the footsteps of his father, Flight Lieutenant Walter Haynes, a pilot during World War II. Tony aspired to become an engineer, a goal he achieved with distinction over his 15-year career in the RAF.

Tony's two older brothers, Roger and Richard, also dedicated their lives to service, spending a combined 60 years in the Royal Navy. As an Aircraft Propulsion Technician, Tony's expertise took him across five tours of duty at RAF Halton, Valley, Lossiemouth, Coltishall, and back to Halton. He worked on numerous iconic RAF aircraft and even had the privilege of flying in some. Tony's dedication to passing on his knowledge was evident when he transitioned to the role of Technical Instructor, mentoring the next generation of aircraft engineers.

Tony's achievements were recognised with a promotion to Sergeant in December 1977, a milestone he holds with great pride. Beyond his technical skills, Tony also competed in show jumping, representing the RAF in various competitions. In October 1985, Tony and his wife Dorothy (Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Dorothy (Woodcock) Haynes), a member of the Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS), were married in a joint forces wedding. They met at a formal Mess Dinner at RAF Halton. They began their married life on the Chequers Estate, where Dorothy served as Curator.

Upon leaving the RAF in June 1986, Tony continued to serve at Halton as a civilian instructor before moving to Saudi Arabia to instruct and work for BAE Systems on Tornado aircraft.

Learning was a priority for Tony, who earned both an HNC and ONC in Engineering during his time in the RAF and went on to complete a bachelor's degree in 1999 whilst working full time.

Tony and Dorothy have two supportive children, Adam and Ruth. Upon Adam and Ruth leaving home to pursue their own lives and after 27 years in Lancashire, Tony and Dorothy retired to North Devon in 2018. Throughout his life, Tony has been a caring and loving family man. Living with Dementia has been heartbreaking for his family and friends.

Dorothy Haynes MBE expresses her heartfelt gratitude to the team at Heanton for their exceptional care and support during this difficult time. Their dedication to Tony's well-being has been a source of comfort and strength for the Haynes family.

At the core of Heanton Nursing Homes's philosophy lies a commitment to nurturing independence no matter what complexity you live with.

To find out more about Heanton Nursing Home please visit  https://www.heantonnursinghome. 

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Farewell May Daze.

I think May might be my favourite month and this year the rain and sun has produced some floral spectacles.
 

The Bluebells were early, the Mayflowers were late and the Ramsons were fantastic this year, I have included some of the wild flowers found on the North Devon coast and countryside, from ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows and rocky coast. 

Not seen too many butterflies, sparse number of Orange Tips and a few Speckled Wood. 

Relax and enjoy the peace….see if you can identify the wildflowers in this video

 

Pat Adams' North Devon Focus. My North Devon Coast & Country Chronicle

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Explore the Coast and' Country' side of  Bideford Bay and Beyond 

>North Devon Focus Website 

Devon’s largest adventure play village - Hobbledown Bay – is now open!

The Hobblers have landed in Devon… and brought with them a whole world of fun!

Watermouth Castle is thrilled to announce the official opening of its brand new adventure play village, Hobbledown Bay.

Local schools were invited to be the first to experience the magic of the new attraction - the largest outdoor play village in Devon.

Nestled within the Castle grounds, Hobbledown Bay marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for the family theme park.

The playground features role play towers, castles, huts, bridges, slides nets and anunique water pillow. Kids can immerse themselves in endless hours of exploration in the Pixie Roleplay Village and the interactive Mining Village.

Hobbledown and the Escapade Group
Watermouth Castle was acquired by the Escapade Group in early 2023, and Hobbledown Bay is just one part of a £1.2 million investment into the site.

The new area marks the arrival of the Hobbledown style of play village to Devon.

With two other existing sites located in Surrey and London, the Hobbledown family is defined by its groundbreaking style of innovative, explorative play where imagination comes to life.

A thrilling addition
Nick de Candole, founder of the Escapade Group, said: "We couldn't be more excited to unveil Hobbledown Bay. It's a thrilling addition that promises to spark wonder and adventure for all our visitors, young and old alike.

Inviting our affiliated schools to be the first to explore this magical realm is just the beginning of the unforgettable memories we hope to create here. Come and join us as we embark on this exciting journey together."

The Tides of Watermouth: A Children’s Fantasy Novel
Also new for 2024 is The Tides of Watermouth – a beautifully illustrated tie-in storybook telling the tale of how the Hobblers came to Devon.

Go back in time to 1912, and meet Edith Penderford: the only daughter of kooky Professor P. Penderford, a daydreamer, and friend to the fairies. When her smuggler friend Littlejohn arrives in Watermouth Harbour with a mysterious package, she’s about to be thrust into a world of magic and adventure. A tale of fairies, Hobblers, sailboats, smugglers, forest spirits, and so much more…

Other Improvements to the Castle
Other new additions to the site include the Fairy Museum, opened in March 2024, which invites guests to uncover the secret magical history of Watermouth Castle. This fictional museum is a wonderland of leaves, crystals, spyglasses, potions, mushrooms, mirrors, and much more. Step into a world where magic is real, pixies scurry among the shelves, and fairies flutter overhead.

Alongside the new play areas, visitors can also look forward to exploring the four newly-renovated castle apartments. The Big River ride has also been transformed with new animatronics and boats.

Wider landscaping works including the installation of bird and bat boxes and the planting of trees will further enhance the Castle's natural beauty and wildlife habitat.

Jack & Adrinna cutting the ribbon at the official opening at Hobbedown Bay,

Pupils from Berrynarbor & West Down Primary Schools at the official opening of Hobbledown Bay on the 22nd May 2024

Media Release Watermouth Castle 23rd May 2024

Conservationists win National Lottery support for Pine Marten reintroduction

Conservation organisations win support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for woodland restoration and bringing back a lost member of our woodland communities

A partnership of leading conservation organisations has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £1.2million which will allow it to boost the recovery of the South West's woodlands through the reintroduction of a lost native animal: the pine marten.

Pine Martens Bounce Back: The Two Moors Pine Marten Project is centred on Dartmoor and Exmoor. Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project focuses on the reintroduction of pine martens to the region after an absence of 150 years. Alongside the animal's return will be an ambitious programme of community activities which will engage thousands of people in exploring, learning about and caring for the region's woodlands.

The project is being led by the charity Devon Wildlife Trust and is a partnership between seven conservation organisations: Dartmoor National Park Authority, Devon Wildlife Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority, Forestry England, National Trust, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Woodland Trust.

Around 40 pine martens will be released over the next two years at carefully selected locations on Dartmoor and Exmoor. The timings of the releases are yet to be disclosed. The new pine martens are being sourced under license from existing healthy populations in Scotland.

The animal's return will signal the start of an ambitious community engagement project. Over three years, thousands of people will support the return of this missing piece of our woodland community and help restore the region's woodlands. Hundreds of opportunities will be made available to people from across the South West drawn from diverse backgrounds. Just some of these opportunities will include:Woodland and hedgerow creation and restoration activities

• Chances for people of all ages and experience to become citizen scientists and nature spotters – monitoring pine marten behaviour and other woodland wildlife
• Woodland-themed, nature-based activities and events in communities local to pine marten release sites
• Small grants for community-based projects that will help nurture local woodland wildlife
• A free digital download pack focussed on pine martens and woodlands, containing wildlife spotter sheets, self-guided discovery trails and craft activities

The project also has a strong focus on creating pathways for young people to get involved in conservation through volunteering and traineeships.

Ed Parr Ferris is Devon Wildlife Trust's Conservation Manager. Ed said:

"We are thrilled to have received this support thanks to National Lottery players. The return of pine martens to the South West of England is an exciting development and follows other successful reintroductions of the animal in the Forest of Dean and Wales.

Like the rest of our countryside, our region's woodlands have seen a recent decline in the community of wildlife they support. This makes the prospect of bringing back an animal which was once a common part of that community so exciting.

This project will ensure that people from lots of different backgrounds are able to play a part in the return of pine martens and to celebrate our region's wonderful woodlands."

Alex Raeder is South West Landscapes Partnerships Manager at the National Trust. Alex said:

"The National Trust is delighted to be a partner in this project that will bring back a beautiful and charismatic animal to the woodlands of the South West, lost from our landscape since the nineteenth century. We hope this will inspire a wide range of people in nature restoration and we will be creating lots of opportunities for participation in projects like citizen science as part of our strategy for a restored and nature rich countryside in the South West of England."

Eleanor Lewis. Woodland Trust's Outreach Manager South West said:

"The feasibility study as part of the [The Two Moors Pine Marten Project] development phase work, has given us the confidence that woodlands across the Two Moors are suitable for these releases. From the Woodland Trust's State of Woods and Trees report we know that our woods need to be in better condition to allow the ecosystem to function at its best. Introducing pine martens will support that, they are a missing piece in the woodland food chain, but we also look forward to working with the project advisers, who will be liaising with landowners, to explore way that woodlands and hedges within the Two Moors are managed to encourage the conditions to support our wildlife including the pine marten."

Stuart McLeod, Director, London & South, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

"We are delighted to be supporting a project which will not only see the reintroduction of pine martens to the South West but inspire local communities to enjoy and care for their woodlands. This is an important initiative that fits with our ambition to help habitats and species thrive, reducing and mitigating the impacts of climate change, while helping people connect to our unique natural heritage."

Pine Marten. Photo credit Mark Hamblin 

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Two Moors Pine Marten Project Officer, Daniel Brown, surveys for signs of pine martens on a recent research trip to Scotland

Devon Wildlife Trust Media Release Monday 20th May 2024.

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Hundreds of wildlife sites vulnerable to neglect and destruction, report finds

A new report has revealed the vulnerability of many of Devon’s important nature havens.

The newly published Devon’s County Wildlife Sites Report [view the report here] is the work of Devon Wildlife Trust, Devon Biodiversity Records Centre and Devon County Council.

It highlights the value to nature and people of 2,191 County Wildlife Sites which together cover 5% of Devon’s land area. However, it concludes that, while many are being carefully looked after by landowners, half are not being managed well or are in ‘unfavourable condition’, while a further 14% are in a poor condition which threatens their value to local wildlife.

County Wildlife Sites are wildlife-rich places which have been recognised for their special nature value. However, unlike statutory designations, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, County Wildlife Sites provide the land and wildlife they contain with no legal protection. The report concludes that this leaves them especially vulnerable.

County Wildlife Sites include some of Devon’s most precious landscapes. These include notable places such as the River Dart Estuary, along with dozens of less well-known moorlands, meadows, heathlands and ancient woodlands.

Together the County Wildlife Sites offer important homes to some of the county’s most iconic wildlife including temperate rainforests, wildflower rich hay meadows, traditional orchards, Culm grasslands and heaths. These habitats support butterflies in rapid decline such as the pearl-bordered fritillary and grizzled skipper, otters and nationally scarce breeding birds such as cirl bunting.

The report also stresses the vital part played by County Wildlife Sites in linking together other nature hotspots, providing ‘green and blue corridors’ along which wildlife can move in otherwise often hostile environments shaped by our roads, buildings and intensive agriculture.

However, it warns that despite the importance of County Wildlife Sites to the health of local nature, they ‘largely go unnoticed and are underappreciated’ and that they ‘face an uncertain future. Some have already been lost forever, others are in danger of going the same way.’

The report highlights County Wildlife Sites vulnerability to change from the intensification of agriculture, urban expansion, neglect/abandonment and the spread of invasive species.

The report is the culmination of 12 years work by Devon Biodiversity Records Centre staff, its partners and volunteers. Together the team surveyed 1,156 County Wildlife Sites covering 13,000 hectares and found 1,600 different species.

Analysis by Devon Biodiversity Records Centre discovered that:

• 34% of County Wildlife Sites were in good condition

• 52% were either not being managed well or were in ‘unfavourable condition’

• 14% were in poor condition and in danger of losing their County Wildlife Site status

• 24 County Wildlife Sites had been destroyed altogether

Peter Burgess is Devon Wildlife Trust’s Director of Nature’s Recovery. Peter said:

“Devon is a county known for its wealth of wildlife. However, only a tiny proportion is provided legal protection. If we are to collectively meet government targets to protect 30% of land in recovery for nature by 2030, we need to ensure those that manage County Wildlife Sites are supported so that these areas can thrive.

Our report reveals the good work being done by many landowners to manage sites for nature – but is a sobering reminder of the scale of the challenge elsewhere.”

Ian Egerton is the Business Manager of Devon Biodiversity Records Centre. Ian said:

“DBRC has been custodian of the County Wildlife Sites programme since the 1990s, and has led on the designation, survey and monitoring of these sites, through significant changes in the conservation and planning landscape. The information captured by our survey team is vital intelligence on the location and condition of some of our most important habitats. It’s vitally important that we can liaise directly with these landowners, signposting them to appropriate advice and funding, to better aid their positive site management. As many already go to great lengths to look after these wildlife havens on our behalf, but many more could if the resources were made available.”

Devon’s County Wildlife Sites 2009-2022 concludes by outlining a vision which offers better protection to nature. It stresses the need to increase the monitoring of current sites to ensure that an accurate check on their health and to offer better protection. It also recommends that a further 1,000 wildlife rich places are surveyed and identified over the coming decade to extend the protection offered to Devon’s wild places.

The report’s authors - Devon Wildlife Trust, Devon Biodiversity Records Centre and Devon County Council – are now seeking partners to make this vision become a reality. If you think your community, business, or organisation can help in this essential work for the nature of Devon get in touch at Devon Biodiversity Records Centre’s Ian Egerton on email iegerton@devonwildlifetrust.org or by calling 01392 274128.

The report can be downloaded here.

The location of Devon’s County Wildlife Sites can be viewed via Devon County Council’s Environment Viewer at https://tinyurl.com/3uchvbfy

 County Wildlife Sites offer homes to rare wildlife such as the pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly. Photo credit Chris Root

Devon Wildlife Trust Media Release Thursday 16 May 2024

Edenmore Nursing Home Gets Arty!

Edenmore Nursing Home was delighted to welcome Sarah Fenner this week, from Creative Minds on Wednesday.

Creative Minds art sessions allow people to express themselves through the creative process, and they deliver these sessions to many types of venues including care homes.

Art can remind people of what they can do, not what they can’t do. This creates a sense of pride when residents, fondly referred to as family members, display their art in their home and it can also help to build individuals confidence through finding this new skill or hobby.

Art for people living with a Dementia is beneficial because it provides a non-verbal means of expression, allowing individuals to communicate thoughts, feelings, and memories that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Gayle, the Home Manager, summed-up the event by saying “Having creative minds visit us inspires our family members to connect, be creative, learn new skills, and most importantly have fun. Art can be a mood enhancer, the family members themselves are less heightened and more engaged.”

At the core of Edenmore Nursing Home's philosophy lies a commitment to fostering independence and embracing life's spontaneous moments. By facilitating activities like this, the care home aims to create an environment where residents, feel empowered to explore new experiences and forge meaningful connections outside their immediate community. 

 

 

 

 

Edenmore Nursing Home Media Release May 2024

 

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To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

To find out more about Creative Minds please visit https://creativeminds.art/

 

Burton At Bideford wins £120k of Arts Council England funding to improve sustainability

The Burton At Bideford art gallery and museum has been awarded a £120,000 grant from Arts Council England’s Capital Investment Programme.

This funding will enable The Burton to continue providing high-quality creative and cultural experiences for people in North Devon, while reducing the organisation’s environmental impact.

The money will be used to improve the sustainability of the Burton building, with plans to install solar PV panels and update the glazing on the front elevation, as well as modernising the heating systems and bathrooms.

The funding also includes commissioning opportunities for local artists, helping The Burton to further build its reputation for supporting work about the environment through its series of Environmental Commissions.

The Capital Investment Programme supports the Arts Council’s mission to ensure communities across the country have the infrastructure where creativity for everyone can thrive.

Carole Evans, Co-Director (Interim), Learning & Engagement at The Burton, said: “In a landscape of rising energy costs, the past couple of years have been challenging for The Burton – as a charity we rely on grants and donations to continue the valuable work we do. This funding from Arts Council England will reduce our costs over the long term, allowing more of our precious funds to go to providing outreach projects, free workshops for children, and continuing to bring high-quality exhibitions to North Devon.”

Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England said: “This infrastructure investment will help a whole range of different cultural organisations across England to flourish, increasing opportunities for people to enjoy creatively excellent cultural events close to where they live. It’s particularly important that we’re making this happen in communities where cultural investment has historically been low”.

Charity wants ‘bat detectives’ for nighttime investigation

A leading local conservation charity is calling on people in Devon to help it discover more about the county’s bats.

Devon Wildlife Trust is about to embark on the ninth year of its Devon Bat Survey. The research is believed to be one of the biggest citizen science projects in the county and has already collected more than 1.3 million bat records. Data from the surveys play a vital role in helping to protect bats.

The 2024 Devon Bat Survey is about to open on Tuesday 7^th May and Devon Wildlife Trust is hoping to recruit volunteer ‘bat detectives’ to take part. No previous experience of bat detecting is necessary. Instead, participants need to agree to host a small electronic bat detector in their garden for three consecutive nights. The bat detectors then record the ultrasonic signals made by bats as they navigate the dark during their nighttime flights.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Lindsay Mahon coordinates the bat survey as part of her work for Saving Devon’s Treescapes project. Lindsay said:

“Last year our wonderful volunteer bat detectives recorded more than 350,000 bat passes – that is, records of bats flying by. Many of these were common kinds of bat such as pipistrelles, but the surveys also turned up several rarities including threatened greater horseshoe bats.

The results of the bat survey provide us with an invaluable insight into the habits of these fascinating animals. We use its results to help direct our work to where it’s needed most – protecting the homes and feeding grounds of Devon’s bat populations.”  

This year’s Devon Bat Survey will run until early October, coinciding with the months when bats are most active. Signing up as a volunteer bat detective is free to do via the Devon Wildlife Trust website https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/devon-bat-survey-2024 Participants book the dates on which they want to undertake their survey and then arrange to pick up their bat detector from one of 12 host centres dotted around the county (see full list below). After three nights of recording, they return their bat detector and upload their survey recordings to an online system which analyses the sounds and returns the results showing which types of bats were detected.

This year, one of the Bat Survey’s host centres is the Younghayes Centre in Cranbrook, East Devon. Andrew Chapman-New, Ranger at Cranbrook Town Council said:

“Cranbrook Town Council and I are very thankful to be a Devon Bat Survey host centre. We are excited to find out what species of bats we have in and around our community. Our Country Park is the heart of our young town and is home to a range of wildlife which the community admire and love. This is a great opportunity for individuals and groups to get hands on and discover the biodiversity and nocturnal life around Cranbrook and surrounding areas. Through identifying species populations, we can implement strategies to further support conservation within our communities.”

DWT’s Bat Survey Coordinator, Lindsay Mahon said:

“We encourage people of all ages, in all parts of the county, to join in and take part in the Devon Bat Survey. All we ask is that you place your detector in a secure location, such as a private garden, follow the instructions we provide, and then enjoy your results. My top tip is to sign up early to take part as bookings fill up fast.”

More information about the Devon Bat Survey is available at https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/devon-bat-survey-2024

Bookings for bat detectors will open at the same web page on Tuesday 7^th May.

The full list of host centres where people can borrow a bat detector includes:

• Younghayes Centre in Cranbrook, East Devon
• Devon Wildlife Trust, Cricklepit Mill, Exeter
• Avon Mill Garden Centre, Loddiswell, South Devon
• St Bridget Garden Centre, Clyst St. Mary, East Devon
• Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Occombe Farm, Paignton
• Puffing Billy Café, Great Torrington, North Devon
• Northam Burrows Country Park, Northam, North Devon
• Braunton Burrows Countryside Centre, Braunton, North Devon
• The Garden Shop, Colyton, East Devon
• Churchinford & District Community Shop, Blackdown Hills
• Becky Falls, Manaton, Dartmoor
• The Tamar Valley Centre, Gunnislake, West Devon

Please note: a booking to take part in the Devon Bat Survey must be made before a bat detector can be collected.

Common Pipistrelle bats. Photo credit Tom Marshall 

DWT’s Bat Survey Coordinator, Lindsay Mahon, deploys bat detector.

A Torrington Scandal. 'The Ordeal of Miss Lucy Jones'

A Devon author who specialises in breathing life into true stories from the past has chosen a remarkable Torrington story for her latest book, The Ordeal of Miss Lucy Jones.

In 1879, the effigies of two local people were tarred, feathered and burned on Torrington Common by a disorderly crowd of three thousand people. Who were the two victims, and why were they being publicly shamed?

‘I was fascinated by a report of the event in a nineteenth century newspaper,’ said author Liz Shakespeare, who lives near Bideford, ‘so I decided to find out more.’

Incidents of ‘rough music’ were not uncommon at the time.  A crowd of people, often in disguise, would march to the houses of those who had committed an offence against society, often a couple who were believed to be having an illicit affair. The crowd would make a terrible racket by banging pots and pans and blowing horns, and sometimes effigies of the couple were burnt. However, this event in Torrington was on an unprecedented scale.

‘One of the effigies was of Miss Lucy Jones, the daughter of a Torrington doctor who lived in Castle House,’ said Liz. ‘As a church visitor to the poor, she had to meet regularly with the curate, Reverend Francis. He was very unpopular, so when someone claimed to have seen him and Lucy ‘acting improperly’ together on the Common, the people of Torrington seized the opportunity to be rid of him.’

The ensuing enquiry, culminating in the burning of the effigies, was reported in no less than fifty-two newspapers throughout Britain, and all included the name of Lucy Jones.

‘It would have been a terrible time for her,’ said Liz. ‘The investigation into Reverend Francis’ behaviour was reported in great detail in the local newspaper. I studied this carefully, and although there were plentiful reasons for his unpopularity, I am convinced that Lucy was innocent of any wrongdoing.’

Liz’s novel draws on extensive historical research to tell the story from Lucy’s point of view. Lucy Jones liked to walk on the Common and to take excursions by train to Bideford and Instow, and the novel describes Torrington and the surrounding area as it was in the 1870’s.

Reverend Francis had to leave the town as a result of the scandal. ‘But after the burning of the effigies,’ Liz said, ‘Lucy was afraid to leave the house. Knowing that her name would be forever associated with the scandal, she despaired of ever being able to marry her childhood sweetheart.’

While researching the book, Liz particularly enjoyed walking on Torrington Common, as Lucy had done.

‘As I studied the history of the Common, I came to understand what a powerful influence it has had on the people of Torrington. Their grazing rights gave them an independence and a determination to unite and organise which enabled them to get rid of Reverend Francis, and I believe that determination still survives today.’

Torrington is famous for its Mayfair, and for the hugely successful bonfires organised by the Torrington Cavaliers which raise a lot of money for local charities, and take place on the same spot as the burning of the effigies in 1879.

Liz Shakespeare has been writing for more than thirty years, this is her seventh book. All her books are set in North Devon and are based on true stories.

The Ordeal of Miss Lucy Jones will be launched at The Plough Arts Centre in Torrington at 2pm on Thursday 25^th April. Booking is essential, tickets are £6 to include tea and cake. Liz will give a talk on the background and writing of the novel, and there will be the opportunity to buy signed copies.

Liz will also be speaking at Parracombe Arts and Literary Festival on May 6^th, Bude Literary Festival on May 17^th, RHS Rosemoor on May 18^th, and Torrington Library on June 13^th.

After 25^th April, The Ordeal of Miss Lucy Jones can be purchased from local outlets, or ordered post-free from www.lizshakespeare.co.uk.

Devon author, Liz Shakespeare, in Torrington Market.

 

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The Ordeal of Miss Lucy Jones by Liz Shakespeare
Letterbox Books - 336 pages Publication date 25/4/2024
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For further details or to purchase the book
Contact: Liz Shakespeare 

Email: lizshakespeare@hotmail.com

Website www.lizshakespeare.co.uk 

Burton Art Gallery launches Bideford Photomonth 3rd May – 2nd June

Bideford Photomonth is a celebration of photography and rural life. The Burton Art Gallery in Bideford, North Devon will host a photography exhibition of two photographers who cross generations. Internationally renowned photographer Martin Parr will be showing alongside Devon based photographer Robert Darch. Together, they will share their view of rural life; a contrast to the James Ravilious prints in the Burton’s own collection which will also be on display.

Together, they will share their view of rural life; a contrast to the James Ravilious prints in the Burton’s own collection which will also be on display.

To coincide with these shows, we have created Bideford Photomonth during May.Visible Bideford, a series of portraits by Anita Corbin exhibited in shop windows, will lead visitors from the Burton up to Bideford Pannier Market, where there will be an exhibition of Gideon Mendel’s work When I’m 40. This work, commissioned by Beaford in 2023, depicts local children aged 9 or 10 years old wondering about what their favourite place will look like in 40 years time, raising questions about the climate and our local environment. Visible Bideford was made by Anita Corbin in October 2022; the photographs are a celebration of friendship and community, depicting both locals and visitors to our Little White Town.

Throughout the month of May, the Burton will host a number of workshops, talks and events to accompany these exhibitions. Our Art Box will be turned into a Camera Obscura by local artist Stephen Raff, and look out for workshops run by Foto-Now in the town and surrounding area.

We Need You!

North Devon is an area of outstanding natural beauty, one of many on this island we call home. To celebrate the beauty of the British countryside, we want to collect your photographs. Please submit any photographs you have through Instagram using the hashtag #ruralconnections. Each day through May we will show a selection of these on a screen in the gallery.

Photo credit Robert Darch. (All Rights Reserved)

Young Bulls Eating Thistle Heads, July 1981. Photo credit Martin Parr (All Rights Reserved)

 When I’m 40. Photo credits Gideon Mendel

Visible Bideford. Photo credit Anita Corben

(All Rights Reserved)

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THE BURTON AT BIDEFORD

Kingsley Road, Bideford EX39 2QQ 

Email: info@theburton.org

Tel: 01237 471455
Website: www.burtonartgallery.co.uk

Instagram/Facebook @BurtonatBideford

North Devon Focus. Spring and the Bubble of Life

Well its been a mizzly, wet start to the year and so it continues. Although I love a misty astmospheric shot ..enough is enough.

I'm so looking forward to Spring sunshine, such a wonderful time of year on the North Devon coast.

In my garden the Hellebores are first to make an appearance. The Daffodils and Primroses beginning to bloom and the long shoots of the Bluebells and Tulips rising. A bonus of not weeding, the side garden is full of Lesser Celanadine which will add a little mellow yellow to the mix. The first flowering Marsh Marigold has emerged in the pond.

Amazingly the Hedgehogs have been visiting the feeding station all through the Winter bar just one week. We have three, I think and the push and pushy behaviour has started all seen on the Trail cam.

Birds still visiting and beginning to chirp, the marauding Starlings seem to have moved on but I spotted the arrival of the Siskins last week, the Woodpecker yesterday so do hope they are nesting nearby. The Lilac and Pussy Willow trees are in bud and by the look of the new Cherry Trees and Magnolia the blossom will be pretty spectacular. Most of all I look forward to the Dawn Chorus, return of the House Martins, Swallows and Swifts, the real start of Spring.

Out the window I have seen and photgraphed some spectacular skies, sunsets, cloud formations and rainbow light, at one time the field was covered in Rooks. Migrating birds are constant visitors to the field throughout the year, a reminder that the rotation of cattle and sheep grazing are vitally important to the ecosystem.

At the end of January ITV NEWS reported how "Harmattan winds would sprinkle a covering of Saharan dust across the UK" and I captured that amazing sky. (Scroll down for photo)

The wind and rain has been non-stop, I've lost count of the number of named storms but looking forward to getting out and about in the sunlight on the coast and in the countryside. Love where you live💚

 

Ecosystem. "An ecosystem is a geographic area where plants, animals, and other organisms, as well as weather and landscape, work together to form a bubble of life."

 

Another flaming sky. According to the news this sky was influenced by Saharan dust.

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Pat Adams' North Devon Focus. My North Devon Coast & Country Chronicle

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