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Are you playing your part in the community?Your Local Community NewsThis months items of interest:
A huge thanks to everyone on a fairly hot evening. The street collection on Carnival night raised a wonderful total of £806.58, and the committee will put every penny back into the town via local groups and organisations. It would take a full page to thank everyone individually for their efforts this year, suffice to say that it would not happen without your support. We are holding our AGM in the Town Hall Rest Centre on Thursday 30th September, starting at 7.30pm. Hope to see you there. Alan Holman
Then get in touch with VOLUNTEERING IN HEALTH where there is a team of volunteers available to help with these sorts of things - and lots more besides, for example:
VOLUNTEERING IN HEALTH IS FOR ALL, not just for the elderly and not just hospital transport. ‘Some of the most worthwhile aspects are the befriending and caring,’ says Joyce Underwood, Chudleigh co-ordinator for VOLUNTEERING IN HEALTH, ‘Maybe sitting with a loved one who cannot be left alone whilst the carer has his or her hair cut, maybe taking care of one brother or sister so that Mum can take the other one on a visit or treat. A volunteer can sometimes act as the liaison to smooth the way for Social Services/Age Concern/other welfare agencies to be able to carry out their jobs.’ Joyce reports that there have been many very heart-warming results where volunteers have really made a difference in families’ lives. One of the volunteers is Chrissie Jackson, well known to many in Chudleigh as the manager of the Mare and Foal Sanctuary charity shop. She spoke to Chudleigh News recently. Chrissie clearly loves the work and finds it very rewarding. But she recognises that people might be anxious or uncertain about calling on a complete stranger for help, so she and the other volunteers do their best to be friendly and approachable. They appreciate that it can be a huge step for someone to invite a volunteer into their home. The volunteers may make suggestions but won’t do anything without the client’s agreement. For example, on her first visit, Chrissie sorts out with the client how often her visits should take place. With a thoughtful expression and a gentle smile on her face, she speaks of a case where she has been able to sit with a client while the carer has time to do their own thing such as shopping, getting a hair cut, attending their own appointments. She is somebody different for the client to talk to during the carer’s absence and she feels privileged that the client shares memories with her. With her encouragement, the client and carer have been able to obtain help from various agencies. This help has improved their quality of life enormously. Asked to sum up what she is able to do as part of VOLUNTEERING IN HEALTH Chrissie says, ‘It’s low key, non-judgmental, beneficial and great fun!’
You can contact VOLUNTEERING IN HEALTH to discuss how a volunteer could help you by phoning 01626 771143 Or – you may wish to join the happy band of volunteers – again – the number to ring is 01626 771143
The small print: VOLUNTEERING IN HEALTH is a registered Charity, supported by local GPs. Volunteers are screened for their reliability and honesty. There is no charge for using the service except for car services which can be arranged for a variety of purposes e.g.. an outing or a shopping trip as well as for medical appointments.
Chudleigh and the Teign Valley Police Report
June 2010 has been another busy one, with eleven crimes reported to us. A person has been charged with an assault in the White Hart Pub, and another cautioned for being drunk and disorderly in Fore Street. One person was warned for possessing drugs in Clifford Street, and we have another on bail for a racial harassment offence. We are investigating a theft of a purse from Market Way, and assault and damage in Old Exeter Street. We are also investigating some Public Order offences that occurred in Clifford Street. At the request of residents in Old Exeter Street, we placed a speed monitoring device in the middle of the street for a week at the end of April. We have just received the results. The average speed of vehicles along this road turned out to be about 20mph. There were only 29 cars doing over 30mph. Two of those were doing between 36 and 41mph, the rest less than 35mph. The road is narrow and it could be argued that 30mph is too fast. However, this is the speed applied to this road. If there was an accident, and there is evidence that the driver was going too fast for the circumstances, then a prosecution could be possible for dangerous or inconsiderate driving even if the speed limit was not broken. Narrow roads with high buildings can give the impression or perception of speed even though the speed limit may not be broken. Mark, Sarah and Rachel went to the Chudleigh Cubs meeting on 13th May. First we showed the cubs a police car and the equipment carried both by officers and in the vehicle. We then devised a crime scene for the cubs to investigate. I’m please to say they found and apprehended the offender! Rachel – don’t do it again! Mark, Sarah and Rachel conducted a PACT surgery in Teign Village, which provides an opportunity for local residents to come along and raise any issues that affect them. Christow held a mini carnival event that saw a group dancing through the village to the Hall for a party. Mark, Sarah and Rachel all attended to assist with the traffic. This could turn into an annual event. Another one for the calendar. Sarah helped Carl Thomas – the PCSO for Moretonhampstead – at a youth club meeting. Carl also arranged a visit by a Police dog handler and a Police motorcyclist, which went down well with those that attended the club. The Chudleigh History Information centre (CHIC) opened on 28th May. This is situated in the Chudleigh car park and displays wonderful photos and information about Chudleigh and its history. It also has information on local events and places to visit in the area. On 29th May, Mark and Sarah went to Ashburton to help police the Blues Festival. This is a regular event in the town, which always passes off quietly (from a crime point of view). Thursday 3rd May saw the first Chudleigh Market in the town. Sarah attended. There was an impressive display of about a dozen stalls. (The cakes were delicious!) This event appeared to be well supported by locals and visitors so hopefully all the shops and traders benefitted from the extra custom. Mark attended St Catherine’s school in Heathfield for the open day/stay safe day for the half term break. This was aimed at young families and he went along with a Police vehicle and other bits and pieces. These events are good for us as it provides an opportunity for us to talk to the children as well as being accessible to the parents who may wish to speak to us about any issues that are concerning them. Sarah Ross PC 2775, Mark Easton PCSO 30315, Rachel Prescott PC 6525
So far, I have had a really positive response, with lots of people changing attitudes and behaviour in favour of the Big Issue. I thought I would share some facts with you:
5 REASONS TO SUPPORT THE BIG ISSUE!!!
The Big Issue does some amazing work, yet I feel it is hugely under credited. I think it deserves more recognition and support for its efforts. It may not seem much to you, but to a homeless person living on the streets, it is as though someone has thrown them a lifeline when they were drowning. It offers them a second chance at a good life. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who have supported my advocacy and helped me in my research. Thank you if you have filled in a reply sheet for any of my media. If not, please let me know whether this article has changed your opinions by going to this address – http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/37BTCYG – and answering a short questionnaire. THANKYOU! Ellie Rowles
Please Help us Help Swifts in Chudleigh
The RSPB and Swift Conservation Groups throughout the UK and Northern Ireland are becoming increasingly concerned that there are fewer and fewer Swifts returning from Africa to nest here. Poor summers, climate change affecting their migration routes, over enthusiastic use of insecticides and destruction of nest sites are the probable causes. The only one we can do
anything about is nest sites. Last year, we asked concerned members of the
public to tell us if they knew where there were nesting Swifts or saw low-level
‘screaming parties’ – the latter usually signifies a Swift Colony in the
vicinity.
It’s non-scientific, so we’ve called it an Inventory, and we’d like you to tell us about Swifts in Chudleigh. Leaflets are available at the Town Hall, and you can fill in the questionnaire and return it to us by freepost. Alternatively, you can go to www.rspb.org.uk/helpswifts and record them on line. It’s interactive, easy to use and has lots more information about Swifts. This is a long-term project, and will be repeated annually. The results are shared with all interested parties via the National Biodiversity Website, and is also available from the RSPB Regional Office on 01392 432691, where you can get more information and advice about the species. If we know where they are, we will do our utmost to keep them there by trying to persuade property owners not to fill in the cracks and crevices where they nest and, if this is unavoidable, to put up nest boxes in the vicinity instead. Where new developments are undertaken, it’s very simple to incorporate nesting places within the fabric of the building. They may not be used immediately, but at least they’ll be there for future generations. This is encouraged by Local Authorities. You’ll mostly find swifts in older buildings – there’s even a pair nesting in your Town Hall. If you enjoy their wonderfully exuberant displays, tell us about them, and help us keep them flying for generations to come. Stephen Fitt
The Day the Market Came to Chudleigh The Chudleigh Market continues in a slightly different form for the next few weeks. The eight week Temporary Road Closure Order (TRO) granted so that we could launch the market has now come to an end. Yes – eight weeks have flown by! Matt has relocated the stalls around the Town Hall Forecourt and the pavement outside The Ship. The market is settling down now into a more regular pattern with some stall-holders becoming ‘Chudleigh regulars’ and others taking a stall from time to time. Matt Harris, the market manager (he is the one on the cheese stall) is constantly looking for new and different traders to bring to Chudleigh, and if you think there is a product missing – please tell Matt.
But here is what one of the market customers has written:- I usually shop on Tuesdays so a Thursday trip to Chudleigh brought to me a new experience with the Weekly Market to enjoy. Twelve stalls had been arranged in two areas of the Square to browse through which took me much longer than I had expected. Certain stalls offered temptations I shall return to; such as jewellery as a present shortly for my sister (and probably me). The bread rolls, applecake and stuffed olives I purchased were delicious and freshly made. With the wide choice from the cheese and delicatessen stalls I felt spoilt for choice. Very fresh vegetables and fruit both loose and boxed were available. Next visit I shall try perhaps the chilli selection from Dartmoor Chilli Farm and Wholesome Hog sausages. I did buy a book from the varied selection but left the wonderful mixture of flowering plants until my builders have left (the garden orchids are irresistible). The handmade cardigans and jumpers and accessories were such lovely colours. A future purchase next time, I think. Yes, I’m hooked and will now visit Chudleigh on Thursdays too.
Roberta Ducker
An article in the Mid-Devon Advertiser (6th August 2010) indicated that the Bovey market is not fairing so well. The market manager is appealing for customers on the basis of “use it or lose it”. With tongue in cheek, could this be an affirmation that a weekly market is the most successful trading format for a thriving town centre and Thursdays are a day when quality traders are available? We leave it to you to decide! Roberta Ducker and Mike Underwood
Chudleigh Outdoor Pool Opens for Summer
The outdoor community swimming pool opened for the 2010 season on Saturday 22nd May and will be open until the beginning of September. We have a beautiful new wooden sun and rain shelter and also have a new coffee machine for those of you who don’t want to get wet and want to support your local pool. We are pleased to announce that we have been able to hold the prices from last year. We are also looking for volunteers to help with maintenance and to run the kiosk. Kiosk volunteers are vital at the weekends during the term and every day in the school holidays. They take admission money and run the tuck shop. If you are interested, please contact Jenny Turner on 01626 854564 or email: jenny-turner@talktalk.net.
2010 Charges
The swimming pool is also available for private hire, giving exclusive use outside public sessions and is very popular for children’s and families parties. A barbecue and gazebo can also be booked at no extra cost. The disabled hoist installed in 2002, along with disabled changing room, has made the pool very accessible for swimmers with reduced mobility.
For a long time we have been aware that Chudleigh is twinned with a town in Normandy called Troarn. However, this year was the first time that we have actually been involved. When Claire suggested that we host a lady from Troarn and her niece during this year’s visit, we agreed, but with a certain amount of trepidation. Would our combined French stretch to a whole weekend of conversation? As anybody who has ever done ‘O’-level French will recall, the syllabus placed great emphasis on being able to talk about all kinds of weather. Rather disappointingly, the weekend on which the Troarn twinners decided to visit Chudleigh offered little in the way of opportunities for using this knowledge, as once everyone had agreed that, ‘il fait beau’, that particular conversational gambit was more or less exhausted. The sun was shining before our guests even arrived, and as we waited outside the Town Hall the rapidly shrinking shady patch grew more and more crowded. When the bus arrived, there was a lot of hugging and kissing of cheeks. We were introduced to our guests and followed suit, although working out how many kisses were customary and which cheek to start first wasn’t easy!
As ‘first timers’ it was nice to join up with the Dunns and their guests on Saturday afternoon. We enjoyed a barbeque together, followed by a walk up Haytor to enjoy the best view of the area I think we have ever seen from up there. It stayed warm right into the evening, perfect for a walk along Teignmouth sea front. The next day there was an organised trip for visitors, hosts and friends to the Donkey Sanctuary at Sidmouth, a pub lunch and a trip on a tram along the river from Seaton to Colyton. When we arrived back at the Town Hall, the French visitors took the opportunity for a spot of shopping, and I was able to find the answer to a question which I have wondered about for many years but didn’t like to ask, namely what do French people bring back from England? I know what we bring back; wine, chocolate, cheese, mosquito repellent; but I couldn’t think what one might travel back from England with. Well now I know: crumpets and marmalade. Who’d have thought it!
Rachel Rowles
Sports Round-Up
Chudleigh High five netball and football team proudly display their cups, won in recent events The football team show off winning the Doel Cup, which has been running in the Newton Abbot Primary schools since 1979. This year Chudleigh won it for the first time in a thrilling cup final against Bovey Tracey 1-0. The Netballers celebrate yet another winning season of medals and trophies. First of all they have won the Newton Abbot Primary league for the 5th time running, two tournaments, and to top it all, they also won the Devon High five festival, beating teams from all around Devon. This amazing achievement has been recognised recently at the South Dartmoor School Sport Partnership awards evening for all schools in the Teignbridge area, where the Chudleigh netball team were awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award. Three of these girls, Lilah, Amelia and Francesca, were also part of the winning team who won gold medals at the Devon Games to Inspire, which were held in Tavistock. These girls along with another team member, Sophie, were talent-spotted and invited to attend West Devon trials. All were selected and will now train in the West Devon academy in the autumn term. A fantastic achievement, and Chudleigh Primary School is very proud of them. We would like to thank all the staff and parents involved in coaching, transporting and supporting the children’s sporting activities. Particular thanks go to Mrs Julia Harvey, who gives so willingly of her time for all sports. Her outstanding commitment to PE and Sport at Chudleigh School, across the Teign Valley area and wider Teignbridge was recognised at the School Sport Partnership Awards evening where she received the Headteacher’s Award, given to one individual from all 63 schools in the region. Well done everyone – a great way to end the school year. David Barnett
It did set me thinking about how I handle such things in my private life. I, I suspect like many other people, simply allow the automatic renewal of such things as car and house insurance without ever really checking whether there are better deals on offer elsewhere. We all live busy lives and it simply takes too much time and is too much trouble to do the investigating necessary. The wake-up call I received this morning leaves me resolving to change my previous tardy habits. Unfortunately, you will have to wait 12 months to learn whether I stuck to this resolution! I thought you might find the latest update on work at Twin Oaks and Culver Green of interest. It is provided by Councillor Nick Walter as follows: 1) Twin Oaks The plot of land surrounding the 'Twin Oaks' was passed to Chudleigh Town Council, to be preserved as a public space. The two oaks have tree preservation orders, and were preserved by public pressure despite attempts by the developers to cut them down. The most recent survey of the trees notes they are in good condition, and are at least 400 years old. The maintenance philosophy for this area is to allow it to develop as naturally as possible, into a natural woodland. This does mean that work on the site will continue at a slow pace over future years, and the area will retain a 'natural' look, as opposed to the 'public park' appearance of Culver Green. This work is controlled by the Councils' environmental adviser and tree warden, Dr Peter Beale. Below is an extract from Dr Beale's brief to the Council on this area; Most of this area consists of rough grassland with a range of herbs and shrubs. The area around the oak tree closest to the leat supports a large number of oak seedlings. The plan is to transfer many of these to a safe nursery bed at the allotments and to pot some for children at the Primary School to grow on. Some can be planted in protective tubes in the Kate Brook area, once they have grown to a height of around 0.75 metres. “The large slope of grass that lies between the bungalow and the oaks has been planted with a range of native trees and shrubs, to create a natural woodland. Some of the oaks from the large trees can be planted with ash, birch, small-leaved lime, wild cherry, rowan, field maple, wild service tree and crab apple. Shrubs will include hawthorn, hazel, holly, yew, guelder rose, spindle, common dogwood, wild privet, dog rose and field rose. The sensory Garden has been constructed and benches have been installed. All that remains to do is to grass out the banks and to plant up the top of the bank with prostrate herbs. It may be necessary to fence off the bank or put up notices to deter children and youths from running along the top of the bank and down the sides.” Dr P Beale The grass adjacent to the roadside will be cut at regular intervals, and some herbicide spraying has taken place at the back of the site. Brambles and docks will be kept in check by occasional hand cutting. In due course the Council will be looking to involve interested residents in assisting with maintenance of this communal area. 2) Culver Green Some minor work is to be undertaken at Culver Green. The remaining stones and shrubs at the lower tarmac entrance are to be removed. The small laurels under the Red Oak will be removed, possibly to be re-located along the boundary railings. Some sections of the perimeter shrubs will be removed as they are encouraging perennial weeds. Other maintenance and minor improvements have been identified as suitable for voluntary work, and we will shortly be approaching interested residents to assist in this task. Can I just remind regular hirers of rooms at the Town Hall that we need your bookings for 2011 as soon as possible. The demand for rooms has increased markedly over the last twelve months and we are starting to develop a waiting list for available rooms, particularly on weekday evenings. So, to avoid disappointment, please let us have your requirements for 2011 as soon as you can. We are now offering free computer training at the Town Hall. This service is courtesy of Maurice Wickstead, who is offering bespoke training packages on a Thursday morning between 10.00am and 12 noon. This training can cover whatever you need – how to use the internet, setting up and using e mail, use of Word and Excel and general information on how to get the most out of your computer. There is a £1 booking fee (returnable provided you turn up!). To book a training session please ring Amii Shelley on 01626 853140 Hannah Bathard has been running successful street dance classes for children and adults in Newton Abbot for some time now. She is now bringing her successful classes to Chudleigh Town Hall. Hannah will be running the following classes each Monday from 13th September: Age 8 – 11: 3.45pm – 4.45pm Age 12 – 16: 4.45pm – 5.45pm Adults: 6.30pm – 7.30pm Classes cost £4 per person. So if you want to learn new moves and routines to the latest tunes, telephone Hannah on 07920 031759 to book a place. John Carlton, Town Clerk 01626 853140
As part of the longer term goals of the parish plan PPIG have been working closely with Teignbridge District, Devon County and Chudleigh Town Councils. The result of which is that Chudleigh has been selected to produce a ‘masterplan’ which could be considered an extension of the parish plan but on a much higher level. This masterplan will feed into the TDC Local Development Framework and will be influential in deciding how both local and national monies are spent in the future to the benefit of Chudleigh. Put simply and crudely, the masterplan will ensure that when there is any funding available in the future, Chudleigh will be near the top of the pile and in with a shout! Also the masterplan will help define the longer term needs of Chudleigh acting as a blue print for any future developments. The start point for the Chudleigh Masterplan was to appoint an independent consultant to lead, enable and facilitate the process. £10,000 was granted from Central Government to help cover the costs, and Sandover Associates (well known in the Southwest and Europe) were appointed. Several presentations and meetings have been conducted in Chudleigh with total involvement by the Town Council and PPIG, culminating in the ‘Open Day’ on the 31st July. Free cream teas were served in the afternoon and well over 300 residents visited to see examples of Parish Plan in action. Another key activity was to repeat the parish plan exercise from a couple of years ago (do you remember the barbecue in the Town Hall?), using ‘post-its’ to refresh the earlier ideas and suggestions to Sandover Associates for the future of Chudleigh over the next 25 years or so. These have been categorised into: The Environment, Transport and Movement, Conservation and Heritage, the Community, the Chudleigh Economy, Green Infrastructure, Housing, and Renewable Energy. Within these categories are sub sections including, Education, Health, Provision for the Elderly and Young, employment and so on. The next step in the process has been to discuss and prioritise the wealth of suggestions emanating from the Open Day, and this activity took place on Wednesday 11th August. Practically every Chudleigh organisation was invited to send a delegate to this very important meeting during which the framework for the future of Chudleigh, based on the input from residents, was debated. Over 50 people attended, the idea being to have as broad a spectrum of opinion as possible involved in the Masterplan so that any decisions for the long term future of Chudleigh have real community representation and involvement. And so the work of PPIG continues. The very fact that Chudleigh has been selected for this unique Masterplan process is confirmation, and an affirmation, that the town is undergoing a renaissance, acknowledged by TDC, DCC and dare one say, Central Government. The Masterplan will really put Chudleigh on the map and allow the Town Council and TDC to work together for the long term benefit of residents based on the suggestions of residents: BOTTOM UP – not TOP DOWN! Mike Underwood Editor’s Note: It was pointed out to me that Mike’s modesty prevents him from mentioning that the success of the Masterplan consultation event on 11th August was in a large part due to his work as one of the organisers. Congratulations
Just for Information Mike Underwood, current Chair of Parish Plan Implementation Group, will be standing aside in the Autumn. Mike has been involved in the Parish Plan process right from the very first meeting at which Councillor Tim Robbins (Chudleigh Newsagents) introduced the concept and process at a public meeting. The Parish Plan was delivered in the autumn of 2009 and the team decided to reform, working closely with the Town Council to implement many of the ideas and suggestions resulting from it. The process has taken approximately three years and although resigning from the ‘Chair’, Mike will continue to work within the PPIG concentrating on specific projects including the delivery of the Chudleigh Masterplan which is the subject of a separate article. Mike has always believed that an organisation is only as strong as its constituent parts. And although Chair of Parish Plan and latterly PPIG, the joy of heading the Parish Plan Team has been the dedication and willingness of each and every member to take responsibility and deliver every time on time. Refreshingly unusual in community and voluntary circles! The next meeting of PPIG (September) will therefore see a few rearrangements – watch Chudleigh News for the changes.
The Battle of the Bands was held earlier in the summer, with 156 young people aged 13 and over taking part. A local band from Chudleigh headlined, and other bands from the district competed. Many families came along too in support of this very successful event. Upcoming events can be found at www.tys.org.uk Descriptions of each activity, times and consent forms are available. Hard copies of consent forms can be obtained at the Youth Centre. We are fortunate to benefit from an enthusiastic team of over 30 young people aged 13+ to 18, who contribute as Senior Helpers in supporting the Youth Centre. There is also a very committed team of Junior Helpers assisting, aged between 10 and 13. Volunteers aged 18+ are needed to help run Youth Session from the Autumn onwards. Training will be provided. Recently a new Intermediate Session has begun on Thursday nights for year 7s to year 10s. Times are 6.30pm to 9.30pm, and typically 15 to 20 attend. Junior Sessions continue to run on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings, with usual attendance of 40 at each session. Raffle tickets to raise funds for the Youth Centre are available from Steve Evans, the Centre Manager, and Committee members. Chudleigh Youth Centre opens again after the summer holidays on Wednesday 8th September.
In just a couple of weeks our third season starts with a Celebration Weekend. For the first time we are screening films on consecutive evenings - Friday (11th), Saturday (12th), and the afternoon of Sunday (13th). This will be the first chance for all members of the community to come and enjoy a film from the comfort of new, padded chairs. These, along with the fixed screen, projector and audio equipment have been bought with a Big Lottery Fund grant. Any member of the community is welcome to come along and pay on the door. But, the Society encourages all who live in Chudleigh and the locality to become a member and take advantage of the reduction in charges for all films shown during the season. For the coming year five extra films are planned - including two at a new venue: Film & Supper at the White Hart, in October & November, and the 1960’s classic, Zulu on 25th March, in the Woodway Room. To set the film in its context, Brian Portch will give a short introduction. He is giving a talk to the Amenity Society in April on ‘The Anglo-Zulu War 1879’, and the film has been chosen to complement this. Now that the society has its own equipment it is keen to offer clubs, societies, businesses and individuals the opportunity to screen a film of their choice for education, training, promotion, celebration, entertainment, special interest etc. Just contact us to discuss your requirements. We look forward to welcoming you to Chudleigh’s community cinema. CELEBRATION WEEKEND
Subscriptions give amazing value, having been kept for the third successive year to £25 for 8 films, Gold Members: £35, Under-18: £22, with a reduction on extra films to all members. Admission to non-members: £5, under-18: £3. It is still possible to book at reduced rates for the CELEBRATION WEEKEND: Members: £7 for Sat & Sun., under-18: £4.50 Non-members 3 films: £12, under-18: £8 Admission on the door: £5, under-18: £3 Enquiries: Carole Smart, 853787 or chudleighfilmsoc@aol.com
Chudleigh History GroupGroup members held their summer social evening in the Woodway Room for their August meeting. The committee provided the wine and soft drinks and members the buffet. During the evening, the Chairman gave a brief presentation informing everyone of the help Roger Brandon and Steve Coombes have been giving to the council in bringing the cemetery records up to date, so as they are now recorded in a more accessible format. Our website – www.chudleighhistorygroup.com – is having plenty of hits and Steve Coombes has been receiving Chudleigh related enquiries from Australia, New Zealand and Canada. The Chudleigh Heritage and Information Centre continues to welcome around 150 visitors a week and several reproductions of some of the old photographs have been requested. The visitor section stocks a wide range of maps including all the Westcountry Ordnance Survey range, A-Z maps and Phillips Red Books map titles. A comprehensive range of Dartmoor and south Devon book titles are also on display. The History Group's next meeting is on Friday September 3rd in the Town Hall. Widecombe-in-the-Moor author and photographer Tracey Eliot-Reep will be giving an illustrated presentation titled Riding with Faith - Mexico to Canada. The 'riding' is on horseback. Tracey is an old friend of Alan Brunton our Chairman and first visited the group three years ago when giving an illustrated talk on riding through Ireland and then New Zealand. This is sure to be a super evening. During mid-August members will have enjoyed a tea party hosted by Mike and Joyce Underwood and John and Lesley-Anne Baxter, to raise funds for CHIC. As this was organised by Joyce Underwood, a fine afternoon was confidently predicted! By the time this article is published we will know whether our optimism was well founded. For details of the History Group's future programme please contact Alan Brunton on 852714 or visit the website, and if any resident would like to volunteer to man the Information Centre for a few hours once a week, fortnight or month, then you will be very welcome. Please phone the aforementioned number. *** If anyone would like further details of the aforementioned meetings or details of the Group's future programme, phone Alan Brunton on 852714 or collect one from CHIC. Also look on our web site www.chudleighhistorygroup.com
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Now on sale: The Chudleigh Book, 416 pages A4 Hardback. £24.95. Available from The Chudleigh History Group (phone Alan Brunton on 852714) and Chudleigh News newsagents, Fore Street.
The book traces the developing history of the parish from prehistoric times to the present day, and it is also a mine of information on a wide range of associated topics. There are chapters, contributed by over twenty-five local authors, on prominent buildings, trades, education, natural history, the water supply, sports clubs, youth and children's activities, community celebrations, dramatic performances, local government and much, much more. Far from being a dry factual account, the story of Chudleigh is brought to life, as we are introduced to the people who have made things happen over the centuries. For good measure, the text is greatly enhanced by an amazing collection of photographs, together with maps and line drawings.
At the launch of the book back in May, Alan Brunton, the publisher and the Chairman of the History Group, made a point of saying that the whole project was a labour of love. This certainly comes through as the story unfolds. Everyone with an interest in Chudleigh, past, present and future, is indebted to Alan and the dedicated editorial team, for providing us with such a fascinating and comprehensive account of the history of the town and its people. Christopher Pidsley
Chudleigh and District Amenity Society September's Amenity Society MEETING is Friday 17th September. Charlotte Faulkner (of the Dartmoor Hill Pony Trust) will TALK to us on the subject of ’The Dartmoor Hill Pony’. Dartmoor Hill Ponies were an endangered breed, but thanks to the work of the Trust, their future is better assured. The meeting will take place in the Town Hall at 7.30pm, and all are welcome. Back to Top
Chudleigh Neighbourhood Watch A Member’s Thoughts – and Mine! I have received an email from a current member of our neighbourhood watch, which I feel says a lot about all of us and of which I include a part as follows: “... I am relatively new to the area but a previous member of schemes in other areas. Whilst I have no complaints about other coordinators and have indeed appreciated their efforts also, yours is by far the most informative as well as the best organised and you should be congratulated on a very professional performance. We are clearly very fortunate ...”, etc. I am grateful and somewhat uplifted by
such comments, but I could not possibly manage a neighbourhood watch
encompassing the whole of Chudleigh unless I had help. So where does the help
come from? Membership of Chudleigh Neighbourhood Watch is totally free and all we ask of you is your name, address and a telephone number so we can keep you aware and informed. If you are not already a member of our neighbourhood watch, then please contact me: John Hallett (Co-ordinator) Please note my new phone number.
Teign Valley Running Club The TEIGN VALLEY TODDLE road race is happening again for the 11th time around our lovely villages and roads, on Sunday 3rd October starting at 10.30am. It is an accurately measured 10.25 mile course, not expensive to enter, well marshalled and with excellent cakes to refuel with after your efforts. For an entry form please go to our website, www.teignvalleyrunningclub.co.uk and download, or call at Penton Chapel, Christow. We are always looking for helpers for this event, so please give me a call if you would like to be involved without actually running it! Many thanks.
Penny Clapham, Race Director & Coach 01647-253066 or email pentoes@hotmail.com
NoticesWI Are we glad we don’t live in the 17th century? Or is there much we do not know about living then? We shall hear all about it at the monthly meeting on the 1st of September, from Ian and Caroline Lycett-King.
We are gradually increasing our membership, and this is good. We try to accommodate all things nowadays, with craft evenings, book club, lunch club and skittles, as well as helping with various events in the town. Visitors are welcome to any of our meetings.
Pensioners Our OUTING this month is to Paignton and Torquay on Tuesday 14th September – not very far, but a very enjoyable area. We always hold our HARVEST AUCTION in September, and this year Margaret Duffy from Brixham will entertain us by singing some Devonshire songs on Wednesday 8th September. Should be a happy evening – why not join us? We meet at 7.00pm in the Rest Centre. Don’t forget the COFFEE MORNING on Saturday 11th September in the Rest Centre – come and enjoy a cup of coffee in amongst your shopping!
Advance Notice
Help for Heroes A great big THANK YOU to all who supported our COFFEE MORNING by coming, or by donating prizes, paying for the rent of the room, providing the milk, coffee and biscuits etc. thanks also to the people who made donations to the morning. We were able to send a magnificent total of £500 to the Help the Heroes charity. Well done, everyone. Barbara Chisnall
Devon Historic Churches Day
You can have an interesting, fun day out by doing a sponsored tour of historic church buildings, using whatever form of transport you choose – car, bicycle, horseback or on foot – or any other imaginative means. For further information and application forms, please contact Bridget Holland, telephone 01626 859191.
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After
months of planning, the Carnival week has flown by for another year. Overall, we
have to be pleased with the outcome as several events attracted huge interest –
the flower arranging, photographic quiz, and bingo night just to mention a few.
The Bishop Lacy 6-mile road race attracted 137 entries, but the Carnival
procession was slightly shorter than in recent years owing to at least four
entries not showing on the day. The response of our Chudleigh residents was
terrific in the walking group categories, but pride of place must go to the S.
Cornish & Sons fun run at the end of the week. In previous years somewhere
between 75 and 100 people take part, but this time all records were broken with
153 starters. 
Hi,
my name is Ellie and I am in Yr 8 at Torquay Girls Grammar School. For my
Citizenship GSCE, I am raising awareness about The Big Issue. As part of
this, I have given two presentations, set up a display and am in the process of
writing a Blog, handing out leaflets and doing questionnaires.
Chudleigh
Community Project runs the community hall and community swimming pool. Many
people think this is done by Devon County Council or the school: well it’s not –
it is run by volunteers in Chudleigh for the community in Chudleigh. 
After
drinks and speeches from both the French and English contingents in the Woodway
rooms we departed home with our guests. I was quite nervous about using my very
rusty French, especially since Françoise spoke such good English, but she and
Julia were very patient, and didn’t fall about laughing the moment I started
mangling their language. As the weekend progressed we all got more confident,
and luckily found lots of other things apart from the weather to talk about.
We
thoroughly enjoyed our first taste of twinning, and are very grateful to all
those who worked so hard to organise it from both sides of the Channel. It is a
great way to make new friends and, entre nous, (do you see what I did there?),
if you want to improve your French it is a great incentive. As we said ‘au
revoir’ (and again! I’m practically bilingual already!) it was with the hope
that we would indeed meet up again possibly in Troarn next year. If you are
wondering about joining in, wonder no more, just do it! You never know how
cordiale the entente might be until you have tried it! 
You
will remember that the Parish Plan was completed about twelve months ago with
the widespread publishing of the results (Executive Copy) and the full version
being available on-line or from the Town Hall. From this the team responsible
for producing the parish plan reformed itself into the Parish Plan
Implementation Group (PPIG). Wow a mouthful! However, together with the Town
Council, many of the aims, desires, and ideas suggested by the residents of
Chudleigh have already been accomplished or are definitely work in progress.
Some of the progress of the past twelve months was exhibited at an Open Day in
the Woodway Room on the 31st July.
The
Chudleigh walking group has now resumed the evening walks. Anyone interested in
coming along should meet on the Town Hall forecourt, Thursday evenings for
7.00pm departure. The first Thursday of each month is usually a drive out for a
walk on Haldon or thereabouts – lifts always available. Further details 859078.
The
Big One – for men in the Southwest is on Saturday 9th October 2010.
Worship – network – be inspired: a MEN’S DAY with inspiring speakers, to
be held at Belmont Chapel in Exeter from 9.30am-4.30pm, at a cost of £15,
including a hot lunch and all refreshments. Pre-booking is essential, and there
is an optional networking breakfast at 8.00am for £4. Worship will be led by
Holy Trinity, Combe Down, Bath. Further details are available on the Christian
Vision for Men website: 
On
Saturday 11th September, many of Devon’s churches and chapels will be
open to welcome visitors.