Local people asked: 'Do you want beavers to remain?'

People are being asked their views about the future of Devon's first wild beaver population for more than 300 years. A public meeting is being held to discuss the beavers on Tuesday 19 August at The Institute in the east Devon town of Ottery St Mary (EX11 1HD), close to where the beavers are believed to be living on the River Otter. The host's, Devon Wildlife Trust, are inviting people to make their views known from 3pm on the day with a formal public meeting scheduled for 7.30pm that evening. It is not known where the beavers came from or how long they have been on Devon's River Otter, although anecdotal evidence suggests they may have been resident for several years. Nor is it clear how many animals are present. Recent film footage of the beavers' broadcast on BBC1 shows adults and kits (baby beavers), suggesting that a breeding population has established itself. In July, Defra announced its intention to catch and remove the beavers, citing the risk of disease and the animals' potential impact on the landscape as reasons. However, a growing number of voices have stated that the beavers should remain; saying that beavers were once a part of the English landscape and that they could be again. The beavers' supporters cite the role the animals could potentially play in flood alleviation, water quality improvement and their positive impacts on other wildlife as reasons for them to stay. Devon Wildlife Trust's Steve Hussey urged people to attend the specially convened meeting: 'The wild beavers on the River Otter have certainly attracted a lot of attention. We've had media interest from as far away as New Zealand and the USA wanting to know what their fate will be. This event is the opportunity for the local community to now make their views known.' Steve continued: 'We need to hear from people whether they think the beavers should remain as part of their local landscape, or whether they think they should be removed.' The beaver consultation day will include presentations from beaver experts including Prof Bryony Coles of the University of Exeter. Evidence from beaver trials conducted in other parts of the country will also be on show. Steve continued: 'We want the event to be a chance for people to ask questions and to tell us their views. As an independent charity working for the county's wildlife, Devon Wildlife Trust thinks the beavers should remain but only after it's been established if they are disease free, and only if the local community wants them there. This event will help us get an answer to the second of these two questions.' The event is free to attend and there is no need to book in advance. 

Those unable to attend can still give their opinions using the dedicated email address devonwildbeavers@devonwildlifetrust.org or by letter to Devon Wildlife Trust, Cricklepit Mill, Exeter, Devon, EX2 4AB.

For more information contact Jasmine Atkinson, Communications Assistant on 01392 279244 or email jatkinson@devonwildlifetrust.org 

Photo: Beaver. Copyright Ben Lee. (All rights reserved)

AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS. A celebration of North Devon Coast and Countryside events

After a glorious July it’s a busy time for tourist-based businesses as visitors are flocking to the North Devon Coast. It’s a great time for locals and holidaymakers with a host of exciting things to see and do including the North Devon Show, RNLI Rescue Days, local town and village events, carnivals, fetes, fairs, festivals, outdoor theatre performances and of course trips to the beach. There are plenty of fun and craft based activities for kids at local art centres and museums. Families can enjoy rock-pooling and pond dipping around the coast, crabbing off Appledore Quay, safe walking and cycling on the Tarka Trail while ernest ramblers can enjoy scenic walks amongst the blooming heather on the South West Coast Path or Exmoor. Although July was the sunniest on record, it failed to bring the butterflies to my garden in quantity even though the Buddelea bloomed earlier than ever but yesterday they finally arrived and I was at last able to record some for the Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count. This is a free fun thing especially for the kids to do while they learn. Just 15 mins in your garden or favourite place jotting down the different species then submitting the results. You can download a free Butterfly ID Chart or there is even a free smartphone app to help you. In my garden yesterday I saw 5 Small Tortoishelle, 1 x Comma, 5 Peacock, 2 Red Amiral, 2 Small and 1 Large White, 1 Speckled Wood and was thrilled to see 2 Common Blue fluttering over the Privet Hedge. It's not too late, the Count is still running so visit http://www.bigbutterflycount.org/ to find out more. 

Here are just a  few of the events happening this month:

 To add an event go to North Devon Focus Coast & Country Chronicle Community Calendar  From 26th July to Tue 7th August Appledore & Instow Regatta - 129 Years of Maritime Celebration Est. 1885 - See Regatta Programme Visit website for details 
6th August North Devon Show (Umberleigh) One day agricultural show. Advance tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre. www.northdevonshow.co.uk
Sunday 10th August 7 pm Illyria Theatre presents ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ by Gilbert & Sullivan at Hartland Abbey. Gilbert and Sullivan's most popular comic opera is about Frederick, an apprentice pirate, born on 29th February, who quits the Pirate ship and falls in love with girl on land - until he learns he is contracted to the pirates until his 21st BIRTHDAY, not his 21st year. Being a steadfast Slave Of Duty, what is he to do? To denounce his piratical friends to the authorities? Or to postpone his marriage until he is 84? The show is packed with laughter, romance and a ship-full of memorable lyrics such as "To be a Pirate King!"; "Modern Major General" and "A Policeman's Lot is Not a Happy One". This wonderful operetta gets the complete Illyria treatment, faithfully performed by a reduced cast and accompanied by a Musical Director on keyboard. Despite the reduction in scale not a single word from WS Gilbert's libretto is cut, nor a single note or harmony from Sir Arthur Sullivan's score unsung. Running time (approx): 2hr 0mins (including 20 minute interval) Suitable for: all ages 5+ Targeted at: all ages 10+ Full £13.00 Concession £11.00 Supporter £9.00 Family tickets available. Bring rugs, low backed chairs and picnics or enjoy a delicious barbecue by Mr Crackling. Pimms and Wine Bar and Ice Creams. Gardens open free to those attending from 2 hours before the show Tickets from The Plough Arts Centre Box Office: 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT ( between Hartland and Hartland Quay) www.hartlandabbey.com 01237441496/234
Tuesday 12th August 5 pm Cambridge Touring Theatre presents ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ at Hartland Abbey. Come and have a joyful, fun-filled picnic with your family while you watch this hilarious musical show. Boys and girls are invited to come along dressed in their best wonderland fashion.
"…wonderful ...entertaining ...enthralling" **** (What's on Stage)
“…has families rolling around with laughter.” The Guardian)
“…laughter-filled treat from start to finish." (The Stage)
2 hours including a 20 minute interval.
Pre Performance Workshop. Before the show, there is a 45 minute drama workshop where you can play drama games with the actors. Age 5-10. Please arrive 10 minutes early.
Bring rugs, low backed chairs and picnics or enjoy a delicious barbecue by Mr Crackling. Cream teas, Pimms and Wine Bar and Ice Creams. Gardens open free to those attending from 2 hours before the show. Tickets from The Plough Arts Centre Box Office: 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT ( between Hartland and Hartland Quay) www.hartlandabbey.com 01237441496/234
13th August RNLI Rescue Day - Ilfracombe Harbour. The largest live emergency services display. Airsea rescues, real fires, displays and exhibitions lasting all day. www.visitilfracombe.co.uk
16th August 16 Clovelly Gig Regatta. The West Country boasts a long tradition of racing pilot gigs. Gig racing is exciting, strenuous and often downright dangerous, with crews reaching speeds of 9 knots in North Devon's powerful tidal waters. You're assured an exhilarating day's racing. So come along and cheer on the brave crews! Normal admission charges apply
19th August Torquay United Football Fun Day at Bideford College 3G 9am to 1pm. A licensed coaches.To book call 07772967544.
Wednesday 20th August. 5 pm Illyria Theatre presents ‘Robin Hood’ at Hartland Abbey. On the day of his marriage to Marian Fitzwater, Robert Fitzooth, Earl of Huntingdon, is betrayed by his closest friend, the Sheriff of Nottingham and arrested for disrupting the peace. But he evades capture and hides out in Sherwood Forest with a band of outlaws under the assumed name of Robin Hood. Here he devotes his life to ruining the treacherous Sheriff, to seizing back the wealth of greedy church landowners and restoring it to the people, and to challenging power-mad Prince John's right to the throne of England. Illyria's production is adapted from the earliest Robin Hood ballads pre-dating Chaucer - which makes it as authentic as Robin Hood legends come! The play is written in fast-moving, easy-to-follow verse, and introduces all the well-loved characters such as Little John, Friar Tuck, Maid Marian and King Richard. It is a collection of tales featuring camaraderie, swashbuckling action, and riotous comedy. Running time (approx): 1hr 50mins (including 20 minute interval) Suitable for: all ages 5+ Targeted at: all ages 7+ Full £13.00 Concession £11.00 Supporter £9.00 Family tickets available. Bring rugs, low backed chairs and picnics or enjoy a delicious barbecue by Mr Crackling. Cream Teas, Pimms and Wine Bar and Ice Creams. Gardens open free to those attending from 2 hours before the show. Tickets from The Plough Arts Centre Box Office: 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT ( between Hartland and Hartland Quay) www.hartlandabbey.com 01237441496/234
21st August Ilfracombe Carnival Floats, walkers, bands and groups wind through the town down to the seafront. www.visitilfracombe.co.uk
22nd to 25th August Sunwest Beer & Music Festival The Landmark. Free music and entertainment. Real ales and ciders.
www.northdevontheatres.org.uk
24th August Appledore Last Night of the Proms on Appledore Quay. 18.45pm: Join Appledore Band for their Annual Last Night of the Proms Concert on Appledore Quay. Lots of singing, flag waving and jolly traditional british fun. Sure to raise the roof. FREE
24th August Character Days: Meet Peppa Pig at the Big Sheep Everyone's favourite cheeky little piggy, Peppa Pig, will be visiting The BIG Sheep in Bideford on Sunday 24th August and Monday 25th August to come and see her North Devon fans! Peppa Pig will be making personal appearances at The BIG Sheep at intervals between 11am and 4pm, for children and families…
Monday 25th August 7pm Heartbreak Theatre presents ‘Pride and Prejudice’ at Hartland Abbey. Heartbreak Productions are delighted to present a fresh and contemporary adaptation of the world-renowned Pride & Prejudice - an insight into the amorous exploits and enduring etiquette between family, friends and lovers. A visit from the Prince Regent approaches and society waits in eager anticipation; will you be able to master the decorum of Regency Britain? Luckily the Association of Higher Etiquette and Manners will be there to educate you in the etiquette of the day. A combination of Jane Austen’s delicate yet intense observational style with the wit and affection of Heartbreak’s writer-in-residence David Kerby Kendall, ensures that this hilarious adaptation will resonate with anyone who has ever been in any relationship. As sibling squabbles and passion-fuelled fall-outs abound, this inventive production combines dance, music and song to create an unforgettable interactive interpretation of the much-loved classic. Bring rugs, low backed chairs and picnics or enjoy a delicious barbecue by Mr Crackling. Pimms and Wine Bar and Ice Creams. Gardens open free to those attending from 2 hours before the show. Tickets from The Plough Arts Centre Box Office: 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT ( between Hartland and Hartland Quay) www.hartlandabbey.com 01237441496/234
For more North Devon Events see Local Press: What's On North Devon Gazette - North Devon Journal
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North Devon Tourist Information Centres
Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre, North Devon Museum, The Square, Barnstaple, North Devon, EX32 9LS
Bideford Tourist Information Centre, Burton Art Gallery, Kingsley Road, Bideford, EX39 2QQ 
Braunton Tourist Information Centre The Bakehouse Centre, Caen Street, Braunton, North Devon, EX33 1AA
Combe Martin Tourist Information Centre Cross Street, Combe Martin, North Devon, EX34 ODH 
Holsworthy Visitor Information Centre: The Memorial Hall, Holsworthy, 
Torrington Tourist Information Centre, Castle Hill, South Street, Torrington   
lfracombe Tourist Information Centre The Landmark Theatre, The Seafront, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 9BX
Lynton Tourist Information Centre Lynton Town Hall, Lee Road, Lynton, North Devon, EX35 6HT T
South Molton Tourist Information  1 East Street, South Molton, Devon, EX36 3BU 
Woolacombe Tourist Information Centre The Esplanade, Woolacombe, North Devon, EX34 7DL 
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 To add an event go to North Devon Focus Coast & Country Chronicle Community Calendar 

YOUR CHANCE TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RNLI

This month the RNLI launched their “Respect the Water” Campaign and if you have ever been in peril on the sea you will know what a great job they do, so here is a chance for you and the family to help raise funds for your local RNLI Lifeboat Stations and their volunteer crews. See below the events being held in aid of the RNLI Lifeboat Stations around the North Devon Coast.

2nd August to 3rd August Lifeboat Weekend at Clovelly Held in aid of the RNLI, it is a popular celebration of the Clovelly Lifeboat. The Lifeboat House will be open both days to the public. On Saturday afternoon there will be a sponsored swim from Bucks Mills to Clovelly, followed by a barbecue. Sunday will be a fun-packed family day with games, competitions, entertainment, food & drink and music. There will be a coconut shy, a tug of war, local stalls and children's activities. To finish the day, "Toby Rundle" will be launched for a demonstration by our volunteer crew. http://www.clovelly.co.uk/village/lifeboat-station

3rd August Appledore & Instow Regatta Day Lifeboats alongside the Quay at 0930 for you to come aboard to look around http://www.appledorelifeboat.org.uk/

To see programme of events visit http://www.appledoreinstowregatta.org.uk/

13th August RNLI Rescue Day - Ilfracombe Harbour. The largest live emergency services display. Air-sea rescues, real fires, displays and exhibitions lasting all day. http://www.visitilfracombe.co.uk

This little video clip was taken of a real lifeboat shout during the Clovelly Maritime Festival on the 21st July. The new lifeboat "Toby Rundle" was launched to recover a broken down fishing boat.

RNLI Stand at the Appledore Summer Festival -  Photo Pat Adams 
 FOR SAFETY TIPS IN THE WATER THIS SUMMER - CLICK HERE FOR THE RESPECT THE WATER CAMPAIGN
Click here to find your nearest Lifeboat Station and Lifeguarded Beaches