sid vale association

past • present • future

Magazine N umber 85 November 2016 £2.50 – free to members

The Association promotes conservation and heritage, the museum, and facilities for recreational and cultural activities in the Sid Valley www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk Sid Vale Association A word from the Chairman… Executive Committee Officers The Magazine President Rev Handel Bennett 01395 514211 [email protected] In the July issue I mentioned something of the history of Chairman this publication and its original name. You will notice Alan Darrant Trent Cottage, Kestell Road, Sidmouth, EX10 8JJ that we have now decided to rename it again, this time 01395 519848 [email protected] as our ‘Magazine’, which better reflects its nature and Vice Chairman contents. This has prompted me to look in a bit more Ed G. Harrison Idene, Lower Wheathill, Sidmouth, EX10 9UA detail at its history. 01395 514430 [email protected] Honorary Treasurer The first issue of the ‘Information Sheet’ was in October P Neville Staddon 79 Woolbrook Road, Sidmouth, EX10 9XD 1973 (see photograph), followed in the next few years 01395 516158 [email protected] rather spasmodically by issues in January, October, September, June and July – Secretary sometimes once a year, sometimes twice – until settling down in 1978 to the July Liz Warren 01395 576998 [email protected] and November pattern it has since followed. These early editions were, of course, typed on to a stencil then duplicated on a Roneo machine, but in 1982 Points of contact came the first issue with cover printed on coloured Conservation and Planning paper and bearing a line drawing in what Richard Thurlow 01395 513171 [email protected] became a series of attractive local views. Footpaths That issue was printed by Axminster Di Fuller 01395 576669 [email protected] Duplicating and Photocopying Service, and Heritage Centre/Museum it contained ‘an imaginary letter’ to Gert Nigel Hyman 01395 579815 [email protected] from Daisy. (Those who don’t remember l l i History Group Elsie and Doris Waters are younger than I!) H Prof. Brian Golding 01395 578474 [email protected] The letter begins, ‘As soon as I moved to s r e l Keith Owen Fund Grants Sidmouth a neighbour got me to join the SVA. t u Chris Woodruff 01395 597780 [email protected] It really is a cheap set-up. What else can you C Meetings join for 35p?’ I am not sure I like the ‘cheap m o

r John Ridgley 01395 579819 [email protected] set -up’, but 35p is a sign of those times! f

y Brendan Lee 01395 513102 [email protected] e

l In November 1983, the publication was renamed ‘NEWS – LETTER No. 21’ (on l Membership a the right in the photograph). There were experiments without the hyphen, and V Andrew Scott 01395 519797 andrewscott@sidford.orangehome.co.uk

e with or without a space between the two words, before it settled on ‘Newsletter’ in h Newsletter t

1990. n Val Huntington 01395 519350 [email protected] w o Publications From 1984 to 1989 the printers were C and D Chapman of Colaton Raleigh, then, d John Dowell 01395 568681 [email protected] until 2013, Speed Print of Exmouth took over. Since then, our own John Dowell g n i River Warden has been responsible for the very professional production of our Annual Reports k o Peter Brookes 01395 597461 [email protected]

o and Newsletters, including this first ‘Magazine’. L

Walks :

o A final point from the Information Sheets: issue No. 2 in January 1974 dealt with t Elizabeth Cotton 01395 514690 [email protected] o the Sidmouth Outline Plan, and carried a strangely familiar message: ‘Industrial h Woodlands and Estates p Development. We are resolutely opposed to setting aside land to the North of r Richard Huntington 01395 519350 [email protected] e v Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership Sidford …’ which brings us up to current planning issues in 2016 and Sidford o

C Brian Hall 01395 515787 [email protected] comes under the spotlight again.

2 3 Industrial Development – EDDC refused outline planning permission for the Sidford industrial estate. The SVA had rigorously campaigned against this development on Woodlands and Estates grounds of destruction of the AONB, impact on traffic and flooding issues. It may be furry but it’s not a friend. SVA Fore Street Premises – Our purchase has finally been completed and work On behalf of the SVA I attended a presentation at Bicton, sponsored by the AONB on the refurbishment is making good progress. See page 10 for more details. group, which dealt with some of the problems facing woodlands. These problems included Ash die back, deer damage and surprisingly to me, grey squirrel damage. Winter Activities – The Museum is now closed for the winter – apart from the pre Christmas Late Night Shopping on 2nd December. Remember that our season of It is quite possible that anyone reading this is already aware of the large amount monthly talks is now under way, having started in Sidmouth Science Week in of damage that is caused by the grey squirrels, but for those that aren’t I would October; and monthly walks continue throughout the year. Dates for talks and like to report on some of the talk. walks are listed on the back cover. The spread of the grey squirrel, especially at the expense of the red, has been Enjoy our first magazine, and a prosperous 2017. dramatic to say the least, and this is in part due to its aggressive nature, compared to the red, and its much larger appetite. However it also carries a virus Alan Darrant which is deadly to the red and therefore they cannot co-exist. This virus does not seem to affect the grey squirrel, so it is simply a carrier. Editor’s View The diagrams show the speed with which the grey has taken over and it would be As a landowner, the SVA has to take into consideration the even faster if it were not for some intervention by humans. impact of its work on the whole environment. We work closely with other likeminded organisations such as the So what impact is the grey squirrel having on the environment? Sidmouth Arboretum, East Devon beekeepers and the It perhaps is not widely known but the grey squirrel is responsible for large horseshoe bat project. Among the problems to be amounts of tree damage. It loves to strip bark from trees, especially Sycamore considered are what to do with dead trees? With the onset and Beech. How many times have you seen a youngish Sycamore tree with of ash die back and other tree diseases, a major expense several dead branches in the Sid valley? Quite a lot, and this is most likely will be felling dead trees. Should they be left for wild bees’, caused by the grey squirrel. Similar damage can be seen on Beech, Oak, Sweet owls’ and woodpeckers’ nests or should they be felled for public safety? Another dilemma is whether to remove ivy from tree trunks – a valuable source of nectar for bees or an extra burden on the tree? Should hedges be cut or left as foraging areas for bats, dormice and bees? The wildlife and its conservation in the Valley is of the utmost importance. The report from Woodlands and Estates describes the problems of squirrels as a pest, whilst the Sidmouth Arboretum article advises which trees to plant with bees in mind. January’s talk on bees will give us more insight into this subject. The disappearance of orchards, as described in Norma Cox’s article later in the magazine, also contributes to a significant loss of apple blossom for nectar foraging. Also in this issue are articles on the Sidmouth soldiers killed in the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago, our new book on Sidmouth lace, the Museum’s rare and valuable 190 year old accordion, the Scouts Himalayan balsam bashing, the Keith Owen Fund’s contribution to local causes including the new Scout Centre, Sidmouth in Bloom, the Literary Festival, and the refurbishment of Queen Victoria’s window in the Parish Church, and news of talks and walks. If you enjoy the Sid Valley and all the work the Sid Vale Association does, then please persuade a friend (or two) to join! Val Huntington

4 5 Chestnut, Pine, Larch and Norway Spruce. So much so that it is estimated that quantities, young buds (often blamed on bullfinches), flowers and fruit. However it the country loses £10-£14 million per annum in timber as a consequence. It is is largely the number of them,and the size and appetite of the grey that causes estimated that more than 5% of trees attacked, die as a result, with even more the most problems for other wildlife. losing their crowns and in some cases, dropped branches are also caused by Another problem that was highlighted for Woodlands is Deer damage to young previous damage to the bark by squirrels. Why do they strip bark? It is not trees, but in planted woodlands this can be prevented by the use of guards in the completely understood but studies have shown that it occurs between April and early years and by appropriate fencing. For larger areas and for self seeded August and relates to the number of young squirrels in the area. The stripped bark woodland, culling is the only method. This keeps a sensible balance between the is discarded and the unlignified tissue beneath is eaten. It is believed that the sap number of deer and the saplings and ground cover that they graze on and is addictive and that is why the faster growing trees with bark neither too thin nor provides a regular supply of venison. too thick are targetted. Depending on type of tree, the age that they can be attacked varies between 10 and 40 years. Ash is not a favourite of the squirrel but in its sprouting and young form is much enjoyed by deer. However if it gets past that it is expected it will get attacked by The Sycamore (left) chalara fraxinea or Ash Die Back as it is popularly known. This recently, has been sampled unintentionally introduced, disease is considered to be inevitable for all Ash and may well be plantations until a solution is found. It is only a matter of time before a tree near revisited, the tree you gets it. As a consequence, understandably, woodland owners are not planting (right) has had a Ash. good chomping and the top may well die Thus the combined effect of disease and squirrel damage on the landscape will and the tree will be dramatic if Ash and other broadleaved trees are no longer planted. probably die early. I would like to thank Charles Dutton of Pryor and Ricket Sylviculture for the I must confess that pictures and diagrams relating to squirrels and tree damage and to the forestry hitherto I would commission for some of the facts. have blamed the On a brighter note, Margarets Meadow was subject to vandalism yet again in deer for the damage on the tree opposite. There is a tree in the Byes which shows September, with another attempted break in to our shed and the smashing down similar damage and has been optimistically fenced against deer, but I believe now of one of our expensive wooden signs and the depositing of it and a bench in the that it is caused by grey squirrels. river. These have now been retrieved and are the subject of renovation at present. The young Sycamore (opposite right) illustrates the sort of damage that is I counted 21 common purple orchids in Gilchrist field this May/June which bodes prevalent in the Sid Valley, which I had thought was some sort of fungus based well for the future. Gilchrist Pond is to be the subject of some work to improve its disease but now know it is squirrel. While you are out walking, keep your eye open for squirrel damage. I think you will be surprised at how much there is. Another consequence of the appetite of the grey squirrel is its propensity to take young birds and bird eggs from the nest to supplement its diet. Again it is estimated that woodland birds have declined by 15% as a consequence of the invasion of grey squirrels but this is not believed to be as a direct result of stealing from nests. Another loved creature that is not helped by the presence of grey squirrels is the dormouse, an introduction by the Romans. The dormouse is out-eaten by the grey squirrel who will take hazel nuts much earlier and in greater quantities than the dormouse and as a consequence leaves nothing for them. The grey and for that matter the red squirrel also eat tree seeds in large

6 7 chances of becoming a wildlife area although it is accepted that the water level The Beach Management Plan (BMP) cannot be improved. Over the past few years there has been considerable discussion about the Butterfly numbers are down this summer with Tortoiseshell appearing very late. erosion at Pennington Point and the risks of Flooding to the Eastern Town. Reasonable numbers of Peacocks and Red Admirals have been seen with a few Painted Lady and Clouded Yellow. Less Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers and Some while ago, EDDC appointed Consultants to recommend the way forward very few Speckled Wood. Silver washed Fritillary have become more numerous and a Steering Group was set up to guide and review their findings. which is a good sign for this beautiful butterfly. Ed Harrison is the SVA representative on the BMP Steering Group. Only one gloworm was seen this year at Salcombe Regis although there are EDDC held a public presentation of others on Salcombe Hill. This does not mean they are declining as I do not go out their proposals in July this year, every night looking but as they do not fly very far and the females do not fly at all, although this was poorly advertised isolated communities may find it hard to increase. and attended. Following that exercise, Anyone else who spots gloworms locally please let me know. If you would like to the Steering Group took part in a volunteer for some light work in Margarets Meadow or Salcombe Regis, please meeting with EDDC and the email me or ring me on 01395 519350. Consultants in mid August, at which the various options were considered. Richard Huntington, Chairman Woodlands and Estates Option 4b The cheapest option known as (1) The Knapp – Butterfly Day July 2016 which involves additional rock groynes at Pennington Point was recommended by EDDC, but the meeting felt that the The Butterfly Day on The Knapp was a success again this technically better option, known as (4b), which involves removing the groynes all year. Roger and Pam Bristow set up displays of information together and replacing them with offshore islands was preferable. This option also and had some cinnabar and mullein moth caterpillars to show means leaving a clear beach all along the front. Its premise is based on the visitors. evidence of the increase in beach at Clifton caused by the offshore islands already in position. It is believed that additional islands will have the same effect The moth traps caught many species overnight, some very along the front. Rock for the islands would come from demolishing the existing striking to look at including a swallowtail moth, buff tips and a groynes. New islands would be built at a lower level than the existing and how rosy footman. John Keele identified 14 species of moths and Rosy footman many were needed would be decided by “tank” simulation. led three walks over The Knapp during the day. About 30 people attended in all and saw 10 species of butterfly including a marbled white, The option (4b) is more large and small skippers, speckled wood, numerous gatekeepers, a comma, expensive than option (1) and small, large and green-veined whites, meadow browns and hedge browns. This would require additional was a good number, better than the seven species recorded in 2015, especially funding. considering that after a wet June butterfly numbers have been very low this year. As a result, EDDC are In August a working party cleared brambles, bindweed and nettles from the investigating the costs of fencing on Peaslands Road and pulled ragwort in the meadow in preparation for taking the two options for sheep grazing in the autumn. Some more pruning has also been done on the “tank testing”, and will report hedge at the top of the steps including laying a birch tree into the hedge. More back, and SVA will be coppicing and bramble cutting will take place during the autumn. involved in an exercise to see where additional funding Work parties take place once a month on a Saturday morning. If anyone wants to might be found if (4b) There has always been a problem with beach join the team please e-mail [email protected]. More help would be most remains the preferred option. erosion. This photo came from John Tindall's welcome. journal from 1928 in Sidmouth Museum – Richard Thurlow John Ball see article in SVA Newsletter 84

8 9 The SVA have a New Headquarters! Legal completion of our new headquarters took place on the 29th July, many months later than we had originally intended. It’s a long story. The freeholders spent a six figure sum to renovate the exterior of this beautiful listed building. A considerable amount of work was done inside, including removal of asbestos, internal fittings and poor quality room partitions which had been installed in contravention of its listed status. The ground floor was subsequently let to a national chain and is now open as Coffee #1. The first site meeting with our builder, Mike Williams, took place on August 30th and work started that day. Mike Williams is very familiar with the building as he was engaged by the freeholder’s local agent to carry out all the renovation work. Richard Thurlow and I plan to make a site visit every Monday Richard Thurlow, Alan Darrant and Ed Harrison morning to review progress museum’s archive, much of which has been indexed for ease of use, will be inspecting the plans in our new headquarters and discuss the following available for people to research in the new Library. Staffing resources will prevent week’s work. the library being open on a daily basis, but researchers will be very welcome on an appointment basis. The Library will operate on similar lines to the Devon The first phase, which is now well under way, involved the removal of all the Heritage Centre. remaining cupboards and some inappropriate doors. Some very old ceilings have been removed together with redundant plumbing and electrical wiring and the Nigel Hyman wallpaper stripped. Richard and I will shortly arrange a meeting with the project sub committee to Scouts and Himalayan Balsam – SVA river project start planning the detail such as the position of electric points, lights and wi-fi etc. The whole property will be re-wired and replumbed with two new cloakrooms and In mid July, some 40 Sid Vale cub scouts, parents, guardians and friends took gas fired central heating installed. part in the Sid Vale Association’s great Balsam Bashing challenge. The freeholder still has some work to do which mainly consists of fire separation The cubs set off with a vengeance, as each team tried to build the biggest pile of works in accordance with the building regulations. We have retained a small part bashed stems. As well as helping to control this spreading weed, the cubs were of the purchase price until this work is complete. also able to earn credits towards their Global Challenge Badge. Louise Woolley – a local Ecologist and expert gave the bashers a presentation describing the plant, Edmund Harrison its history and how it came to be thriving in the Sid Valley. Himalayan Balsam is one of the UK’s most widespread invasive weeds. Looking to the Future It is beginning to establish itself on the banks of the River Sid, and although it The pictures opposite show the cramped conditions in the attic space in the looks pretty – it is related to the popular Busy Lizzie plant – it is spreading rapidly Museum. It is full to bursting with reference documents and once Trumps is and can cause blocking and flooding to the river, and has a serious affect on other completed, all the books, documents, newspapers and photographs in the native plants and wildlife.

10 11 If you have Balsam on your land and want to help, then “bashing” is the Keith Owen Fund most effective technique for its Sidmouth’s New removal. Simply pull up the whole plant including the shallow root, which Scout Centre is remarkably easy, and snap the The 1st Sid Vale Scout hollow stem just above the root ball to Group is very proud of the kill off the plant. Leave the root and new Scout Centre, its new stem to dry out and rot down away home for scouting, which from the river banks so the river will has been built in the not become re-infested. Salcombe Regis recreation field. The Scout Group is River Volunteers very appreciative of all the We actively maintain over 700m (half a mile) of the west bank of the River Sid encouragement and support it has received from many organisations including alongside Margaret’s Meadow and Gilchrist’s Field. Volunteers can help by the Keith Owen Fund, the Town Council, businesses and individuals around the tackling the invasive Himalayan Balsam (see above), assisting salmon and trout locality. to by-pass School Weir in the southern end of the Byes during their migration (see The dreams and aspirations of the Scout Group leaders and Committee began to July 2016 Newsletter) as well as keeping a watchful eye on the quality of the river take shape soon after the Town Council in 1997 kindly gave the Group permission in case of pollution or blockage which might impede the flow or worse still to for it to use the Salcombe Regis Recreational Field for its outside activities. cause flooding. If you feel able to assist in any way please contact me. Walking Around the time it was becoming clear that the original Scout Hut next to the alongside the river is a delight and is often rewarded by catching site of dippers, Manor Pavilion was too restrictive and was proving to be less suitable for scouting sandpipers and the iridescent flash of a kingfisher. as numbers grew, and the leaders had to hire other meeting places in Sidmouth. Victorian Pond The determination to find a permanent solution grew, and despite spending time looking for alternative sites and buildings over a period of time, and deliberating if A survey of the pond to increase the amount of water with a gravity feed showed we could deliver the project and in what form, the reality was that the most ideal that it was not possible. An ecological survey was then undertaken. This showed and suitable site was the Recreation Field on Salcombe Hill. that the pond has the potential to support an increase in biodiversity of flora and fauna by management of the vegetation. Clearly there was much to do – hearts and minds to win, permissions to obtain, a property in the Town Centre to sell – a new building to design, costs to calculate In order to progress the proposal we are currently assessing the first steps in and fundraising to match any shortfalls in what we could raise ourselves. There is what promises to be a worthwhile project. no doubt that we had a lot on our plate, there were of course the risks to consider – and the big question where to do we start? For more information on Himalayan Balsam please go to the SVA’s website www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk The first major task was fairly obvious – we needed power brought to the field! A quote was obtained from Western Power. This is the point in the project where our Peter Brookes dreams for the ideal Scouting facilities in the Sid Valley became the beginning of reality as the both the Keith Owen Fund and the Rotary Club of Sidmouth offered their support. With both organisations committing funds, power was installed. For the first time in 10 years, leaders who used the field and the pavilion in the winter Some of the Sid Vale cubs with their months had electricity and did not have to rely on an unpredictable generator! tallest balsam stems – some over 3 Thanks to the confidence and generosity of the KOF and the Rotary Club the metres (10 Feet ) high. journey of creating the new Centre had well and truly begun! The next big step was the laying of the foundations. By this time we were actively fundraising, the Sidmouth Community were clearly supporting us and we had

12 13 accumulated some funds but were not yet in a position to market and sell our Scout Group was founded in 1913. Mr W H Hastings was the Scout Master and existing property which was key to our budgeting and planning. Once again the Mr L. Cook the Assistant Scout Master. The original Headquarters (the Hut) next KOF gave us a confidence boosting promise of further funding which was very to the Manor Pavilion was built in 1914 for the Scout Group. The site was gratefully received and welcomed. Work is now complete and the centre was generously given by Colonel J.E.H. Balfour. The architect was Mr RW Sampson officially opened in August 2016. and the builder was Mr John Skinner. A 50 year lease was granted by Lord Balfour and this was enlarged into a freehold title gifted by his executors in 1954. The new Scout Centre will be used and enjoyed for generations to come. We have The premises which were extended in 1987 had a total internal floor area of just an indoor climbing wall and we will be able to offer rifle shooting, crate stacking and 82 square metres. The Hut was the home of Scouting in Sidmouth for 101 years. maybe indoor archery in the winter months. It’s a superb facility in an ideal location. The building was sold in 2015 to part finance the new Scout Centre on Salcombe The whole ethos of Scouting for young people is about adventure, exploring the Hill. outdoors, discovery, working in teams and taking responsibility. As set out by the Scout Association, its purpose is: “To help young people achieve their full physical, Gareth Hughes intellectual, social and spiritual potential as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.” The whole Scout Group is very grateful to everyone in the community who has supported us and in particular is grateful to the Keith Owen Grants Committee for having faith in the project right from the start. We are always very keen to hear from anyone who would like to know more about 1st Sid Vale Scout Group. We can be contacted by email: [email protected] or by phone 01395 515552. THANKS to a generous grant of £640 from Sid Vale Association’s Keith Owen A brief history of scouting and its arrival in Sidmouth Fund, Sidmouth’s second Sun, Sea & Books, Literary Festival, was able to offer The founder of Scouting, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, was encouraged to set down poetry events and a competition for all ages as part of its 2016 programme. his views on how he would apply Scouting to the training of boys after his The grant enabled organisers to enlist top performance poet, Matt Harvey from experiences in the army. He first conducted an experimental camp in 1907 on Totnes, who has been a familiar voice on BBC Radio 4 since 2001. As well as co- Brownsea Island off the Dorset coast. With some 20 boys from all walks of life and judging the festival’s poetry event, with former Bard of Exeter, Mantie Lister, he suitable adult leaders, Baden-Powell taught the boys what he meant by Scouting. gave a sell-out performance at Sidmouth Rugby Club as part of the festival events. They lived in tents, cooked their own food and learnt many valuable skills through games. The camp was a great success and proved Baden-Powell’s ideas. He Matt and Mantie – who helped to promote the festival at the third Sea Fest event wrote all his experiences in a book. Scouting for Boys published in fortnightly parts, on the Ham – were on hand at Sidmouth Library to announce the winners of the commencing January 1908. Despite it’s expense (4d per issue) it became very Sun, Sea & Books poetry competition. One of the winning poems is printed at the popular and ranks fourth in the best-selling books of the 20th Century. Scout back of this issue, others appear on the SVA website. Patrols and Troops had appeared all over Britain and soon become a Movement in Mantie judged the two children’s categories, while Matt judged the adult class. its own right. Two years later Mark Chapman, owner of Paragon Books, handed out the book token prizes, also Baden-Powell, now a general, bought with KO grant money. retired from the army to devote his life to this new Movement called The festival organisers would like to thank the Keith Owen Fund for its generous Scouting. backing, which enabled most of the poetry events to go ahead. It is hoped, if funding and voluntary help is forthcoming next year, to stage a Poems Under Sir Robert Baden Powell visited Pebbles event on Sidmouth beach. Sidmouth in 1907 as a guest of Colonel Balfour, Lord of the Sidmouth literary festival is run by a non profit making committee and relies solely Manor to discuss the setting up of on receiving grants and sponsorship. a scout troop. The 1st Sid Vale Di Bowerman

14 15 Keith Owen at the NEC! became apparent that without the Keith Owen funding support the Maritime Theme Displays, the ongoing planting up of the town’s flower beds which SIB What is this about? inherited and new features such as the ‘Owl and the Pussy Cat’, ‘The Wind in the Sidmouth in Bloom’s (SIB) success of a Silver Gilt Willows’ and Schools involvement in project work would simply not be possible. for their display at BBC Gardeners’ World Live at the This support has continued and has enabled SIB to match fund by raising money NEC this year was all due to the Keith Owen Fund. through the town’s annual Open Gardens, Friends’ membership subscriptions and How did this come about? social events, grants from Sidmouth Town Council and sponsorships from the town’s businesses and residents etc. It started with the 2015 Sidmouth entry in the RHS Britain in Bloom SW West Champions of Champions judged by Bob Sweet who with Tim Eley awarded All this has enabled the committee to respond to calls for continuation in providing Sidmouth Gold and the Sargent Cup. What we did not know at the time was that troughs and displays around the town, meet new challenges by closer Bob heads up the Gardeners’ World Live Show at the NEC Birmingham. When involvement in the town’s parks and gardens and meet new RHS judging the phone rang in February Bob was on the line to invite SIB to mount a feature challenges of environmental responsibility and community participation. based on the fish in the town’s Triangle complete with cobbles and underwater The RHS In Bloom campaigns are designed to promote and encourage cities, towns, themed planting. villages and individuals to take ownership of their surrounding horticulture i.e. Bob considered our town’s display as unique and wanted SIB to mount a large community parks and gardens, residential gardens and business premises, not to just 12m x6m display in the NEC Floral hall. This was an offer that only comes once in sit back and wait for councils to carry out work but to join forces and work alongside a lifetime and included some funding from River Street Events, the organisers, – local authorities and other bodies to fill gaps in funding and their workforce, thus what a challenge – an offer Lynette (SIB Chairman) and Peter (Secretary and enabling maintenance and improvements, initiatives of environmental responsibility Treasurer) could not refuse. A concept design was prepared by Lynette then, and promotion of pride of place by community participation. following several meetings with Bob and his organisers in London, the show went Sidmouth is no different from other situations; budgets and staff are subject to cuts “on the road”. Well not quite fully on the road perhaps, more on the footpath! or diversions into new social areas and pressures. SIB works with and alongside Questions of: How to achieve such a prominent display without any experience? EDDC Streetscene gardeners, cleaners and groundsmen. It is a two-way effort to How we could use such a display to promote Sidmouth? Where could such a help each other; examples are SIB planting up the East Ham car park wall beds, display be pre-assembled? How could we get additional funding and support? All the two heritage sunken beds in Connaught gardens, the new 3-D displays in needed to be addressed and answered. Blackmore Gardens and the current work in the Old Boat Park. EDDC Streetscene All this presumed that the central features of four fish and star fish would be has helped by proving the use of a disused polytunnel and the surrounding storage funded and planting up done on time ready to transport up to Birmingham. This is area at their Knowle deport, providing practical assistance in clearing beds and where Keith Owen and the Trust Fund he created comes in. Without this financial allowing SIB use of parks and gardens maintenance facilities around town. support to get these features planted up professionally there would be no such ‘Keith Owen at the annual town displays alongside the whelk and the Jurassic Rhynchosaur to catch NEC’ highlights the the judges’ and visitors’ eye. best horticulture, The Triangle display in Sidmouth originated in 2003 with two fish designed and environment and constructed by local craftsmen. Over the next few years it developed into a full community work that maritime underwater scene all set in and surrounded by themed planting (we the ‘In Bloom’ must not forget Sidmouth’s ‘Nessie’, the sea serpent swimming in her own floral campaign aspires to bed in Blackmore Gardens). The Keith Owen Fund commenced funding displays achieve. SIB whole for the town’s In Bloom RHS campaigns in 2009 and by 2011 were funding the heartedly thanks the planting up of these displays. Keith Owen Fund for its help. When the current SIB committee responded to a call by the Sidmouth Town Council in 2012 to run the town’s RHS Britain in Bloom campaigns it quickly Peter Endersby

16 17 from Asia, this new ‘free reed’ technology Sidmouth Museum’s contribution to FolkWeek spread across Europe during the 1820s, first Over 150 people packed into the Museum as mouth organs of various kinds, then as at lunchtime on 1st August – Monday of accordions and, later still, concertinas. Folk Week – to see John Kirkpatrick, one In 1830 Michael Faraday gave a Royal of the country’s most highly-acclaimed Institution lecture about the science behind and well-known squeeze-box performers, these new mechanical instruments: “… playing the Museum’s rare and valuable springs, or tongues, of small dimensions, accordion, one of the oldest in the world. fixed at one end and free at the other and Sidmouth’s Museum, like most museums, placed so as to vibrate, when a current of air does not have enough space to display is directed against them … the accordion everything in its collection, so it was a nice consists of ten chords, put in action by a surprise when the accordion, made in portable bellows for the hand, and regulated by finger keys”. He noted that “the 1825 by Wheatstones of London, was John Kirkpatrick and Roger Trend harmonies of this instrument are very full recently discovered in the attic. inspect the accordion’s box and organ-like, but it is limited in compass”. When Nigel Hyman, the Museum’s curator, and Roger Trend decided to set The accordion is in amazing condition for a 190 year old instrument and, up a temporary display for Folk Week they amazingly, in equally good condition is its original cardboard box! searched the Museum’s database for John Kirkpatrick So now the search is on to see whether there are any other unusual instruments possible items for inclusion. The record hidden away in the Museum’s store for what is hoped will be an annual Folk Week and retrieval system worked to perfection and the accordion was discovered. “As display. soon as I saw it I suspected it was significant” said Roger. “I knew they originated in the 19th century, so I did some Google research, searched articles and books in the Bodleian Library, and contacted Andy Lamb at the Bate Collection of Musical Instruments at Oxford University, one of the best in the world. Andy confirmed it was what I thought it was and valued it between £3,000 and £4,000!” Sidmouth’s accordion is a most unusual instrument, not only because it plays chords rather than single notes but also because it is left-handed and very small, only 23cm across the keyboard. This beautiful instrument only has five valves, each one playing two chords: one when the bellows are compressed and another when they are expanded. And, as John explained and demonstrated, because it only plays chords, it isn’t really made to play tunes, but rather to be used as an accompaniment to singing. This early form of the instrument was patented by Cyrill Demian in Vienna in 1829. In fact the German word for chord (akkord) gives us the word accordion, although all modern accordions play single notes as well as chords. Originally

18 19 Sam is passionate about singing and the huge benefits, both physical and SVA talks 2016/17 – ‘Variety is the Spice of Life’ psychological, it brings to the singer; there are many of us who believe they As the headline suggests this coming season of talks builds on the previous cannot sing, but Sam doesn’t accept that view so come along and be convinced. seasons when we endeavour to stimulate curiosity as well as providing thought- You may end up joining a choir and enjoying the benefits singing brings. provoking and entertaining talks on a wide range of subjects. I am sure you are all aware of the National Trust (NT) and the final presentation is Previous talks have ranged from ‘Space Exploration’ to the ‘History of the Organ’ another joint venture this time between the SVA and the NT. Hugh Meller is and this eclectic mix continues in 2016/17. coming to the Manor Pavilion on Wednesday 8th March 2017 at 2.30 to talk It’s Back to the steam age for the next talk at the about ‘Devon Country Houses in the 21st Century’ . This should prove to be a Manor Pavilion on Wednesday 9th November at very informative presentation and one not to be missed. 2.30. Nick Thompson is part of a group which is re- On Wednesday 26th April 2017 the AGM of the Sid Vale Association is to be building the steam engine ‘Sidmouth’ and he is held at Manor pavilion at 2.30 and everyone is welcome. It is an opportunity to coming to talk about the original engine and the listen about the varied work of the SVA across the Sid Valley and perhaps inspire work that is currently taking place in order to get it you to join us, that is if you re not already a member. ‘back on track’. I like to think that this presentation is not just for steam train enthusiasts but also for all To whet your appetite for 2017/18 here a few hints about some of the those interested in Sidmouth’s relationship with the age of steam. presentations planned: ‘The Roman Army in South Devon’ and ‘The History of Sidmouth Cricket Club’ Now you’re thinking how do we follow that? John Badley is coming to tell us all about the Birds and the bees! Well only the bees as he is a local beekeeper who My colleague John and I look forward to seeing you all at the various events over is passionate about these amazing creatures who do such much for us, but the coming season. perhaps we are not as helpful to them as we could be. Come along on Brendan Lee Wednesday 11th January 2017 at 2.30 and hear about how important bees are and what we can do to help them go about their vital work. Do buzz along to the Manor for a fascinating insight in to the live of bees. Trees for Bees Why do bees hum? Because they don’t know the words! The Sidmouth Arboretum gathering in Sidbury this summer focused on trees for bees and trees for hedges. You may wonder whether there is a link between This attempt at humour brings me to the next speaker Samantha Abrahams. these two subjects, and we did learn that bees and bats (among others) benefit Sam, as she likes to be called, runs four very successful choirs in Devon and has from a continuous flight path. Hedges are very beneficial in this way. Trees in agreed to come along to the Manor Pavilion on Wednesday 8th February 2017 hedges or individual trees and shrubs in gardens can help link up a path of at 2.30 to talk on ‘Singing for the Soul’ . pollination. George Pidgeon and Richard Hooker of Devon Hedge Group gave a most entertaining talk on the unique form of Devon hedges. There are many ways of managing hedgerows – and in Devon, where stock control is often a priority, we learnt about the how and when hedges should be cut. Naturally, whatever regime you choose, the cutting comes outside the nesting season. There has been a great campaign this year to encourage planting for the supply of blossom to help the bees and to increase pollination. Richard Simpson, a Devon Bee keeper and ecologist Louise Woolley both spoke about the importance of bees. One tree flowering at the right time can help insects forage along a wider area. In our own gardens, we seldom think about choosing trees for their blossom – unless you go for camellia or magnolia, and fruit tree blossom is all important.

20 21 Our garden flowers and the recent increase in meadow planting provide sources Countryside Walks of nectar and are definitely on the agenda for private gardens, as well as for Highways and the District Council. Both these latter are taking the opportunity to Join the SVA Countryside Walking Group and you reduce mowing commitments, as wild flower meadows are acceptable will never walk alone again! We meet on the first alternatives. So it was a delight to find that Louise Woolley considers “Trees are Tuesday each month at 10am and take a 5 mile an incredibly important source of food for bees and other pollinators. In part this is circular walk through glorious East Devon, lasting due to their large size which contains thousands of flower heads – giving the about 2.5 hours – see back cover for list of walks. pollinators their important source of food in one place.” You need to be reasonably fit and to enjoy chatting as well as walking – all our members are “Trails or ‘rivers’ of insect pollinated street trees can link areas of urban forage very friendly and welcoming. Do join us. with one another enabling flying insects to negotiate a less hazardous and a more nutritiously rewarding path through urban areas.” Liz Cotton The British Beekeepers Association www.bbka.org.uk has put together a leaflet Parish Paths Partnership of recommended flowering trees and here are my suggestions for garden size trees and shrubs for autumn planting: In Sidmouth the Parish Paths Partnership (P3) continues to flourish as a great example of organisations working together to For winter flowering: Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ and Lonicera x purpusii , a achieve shared objectives. P3 comprises SVA, Sidmouth Town Council, Devon large wonderfully perfumed shrub. County Council and representatives of other key organisations who all have an For spring: Blackthorn flowers early but the thorns are very unfriendly so try interest in using public rights of way. Amelanchier lamarckii or one of the many hawthorns which should be better Devon County Council contractors finished their first cuts of vegetation across the known. Also, evergreens such as holly which flowers in May. parish earlier in the summer and volunteers have been strimming additional areas For high summer blossom: Eucryphia glutinosa and privet hedges. and also where vegetation has quickly returned. It is always a tricky balance between keeping paths clear and not using precious budgets by cutting too early For autumn blossom: Thornhayes Nursery suggest Tetradium daniellii . in the season. The Arboretum is planning some street trees for planting this winter, and also in Work like mending steps that is undertaken by volunteers was halted by the dry the Knapp orchard. weather over the summer and the race will be on to use the light evenings The Tree Council suggest planting in November. Their National Tree Planting remaining for work that still has to be done. But with autumn looming it will be time week is 26th November - 4th December 2016 . to begin other surface projects which are easier when the ground is softer to dig! The Arboretum will have their own Celebration of Trees on Friday 25 November Di Fuller 6pm in the Cellar Bar of Kennaway House. All welcome. Come along and join in – we have invited a very wide range of exhibitors and speakers for the 3 minute slot. So there is a wealth of knowledge and fun quiz, raffle, even do some Christmas shopping. Finally we would welcome new members of our committee, so if you might consider helping out, please email [email protected] or just turn up at the AGM on Tuesday 10 January 2017. Thank you! Diana East (outgoing Arboretum Chairman) Eucryphia glutinosa Volunteers strimming and relaxing at Fortescue

22 23 SVA Publications Sidmouth Lace – the luxury fabric that hides a world of Sidrocks Songbook poverty, distress and power Local geology set to music! Specially written songs about Sidmouth's geological history complete with words music When asked by Nigel Hyman, whether I and ukulele chords. Learn the songs and join in the would be interested or tempted to produce ‘Singing the Rocks’ geology walk during FolkWeek. a small book on the lace trade of Sidmouth, Prepared by Emma Oliver-Trend and Roger Trend. Sidbury & Sidford, logic said, “No” but my love of lace history and research said “Yes”. The friends with me, when the request was The 2017 Sid made, knew the answer I would give before Vale Calendar I did! How glad my heart ruled the day, as my research journey, to extend the Our calendar, sold in aid of the Sidmouth knowledge I already had of lacemaking in the Sidmouth area, led me to contact Landscape Fund for the conservation of the curators in the USA and Canada as well as the local museums in East Devon and unspoiled Sid Vale countryside for future Exeter. When one question was answered another two or three arose – such is generations to enjoy, contains 14 stunning new the nature of historical research. It is so addictive. pictures by local photographers. Complete Looking into one specific district that produced lace always gives much more of with envelope for posting. the way business worked, the highs and lows that fashion dictated, the sheer We are always interested in suggestions for publications about the Sid Valley. If numbers involved from Census details and the incidents reported in newspapers [email protected] you have an idea please contact that make the imagination run riot! When I make lace today, mainly as a hobby, it is very different from the tedious work required to complete a large order in time; sleepless nights are not part of my lifestyle but they were very much part of the lacemakers in the 18th and 19th centuries. No one controls what I make and I am Late Night Shopping in Sidmouth free to interpret a pattern as I wish. Friday 2nd December – 4-8pm Royalty and the aristocracy featured highly in the lives of the Sidmouth lace trader; Don’t forget to call in at the Museum for your calendars, books to feuding families gave rise to difficult decisions of where to trade and whether suit every member of the family, and a great variety of stocking fillers! businesses would last and the family connections were not always helpful. Exhibitions were entered, medals won with much praise for the recipients. Lace produced in Sidmouth was acquired by the Metropolitan Museum in New York and the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto; lace that is still there today. The way children were taught in Lace Schools and then employed from a very young age with little time for physical activities is in sharp contrast to the lifestyles of today’s technology-savvy children, although we still complain of them being inactive! The method of employment and payment is not dissimilar to zero hour contracts of today, and abuse of the lace maker’s skills was rife. Lace, the luxury fabric, that hides a world of poverty, distress and power. Online Sales The When the Museum is closed, many of the SVA’s publications book will be launched on Friday December 2nd, when the Museum will be and other items are available to buy online from our website open from 4-8pm as part of Sidmouth’s late night shopping day, and I will be there www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk to sign copies. Carol McFadzean

24 25 100 years ago to have been killed. Over half of those killed on the British side have no known grave. The Missing from the UK regiments are commemorated on the Memorial at The Battle of The Somme – Sidmouth’s Sacrifice Thiepval on the Somme, which also lists missing soldiers who died in the later fighting in the area. The Battle of the Somme took place along both sides of the River Somme in northern France between 1st July and 18th November 1916.The British and 12 men from Sidmouth were killed during the 1916 offensive, 5 have no known French allies attacked the German army along a 22 mile front. grave and are therefore honoured on the Thiepval Memorial. The first day of the Somme offensive was the bloodiest day in the history of the The War Memorial Tablets inside Sidmouth Parish Church list 11 men with local British army. The date for the attack – named Zero Day or ‘Z-Day’ – was originally connections who died during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. Two were killed on set for 29 June but was delayed due to bad weather. Heavy rain had made the first day. approach roads, trenches and shell craters in No-Man’s-Land too muddy. But mud George Robert Channing was still present on the rescheduled Z-Day, 1st July. At 7.30 am on what was a Ernest Charles Stephen Cox clear mid-summer’s morning the British infantry emerged from its trenches and Gilbert Lewis Otton started to cross the expanses of No-Man’s-Land in waves. They walked in extended John Rugg lines, at a slow steady pace. Their commanders expected that the troops would Alfred Frederick Butter walk right up to the German lines and capture them with relative ease. However, of Edwin Harold Ivatts the 120,000 British troops that left their trenches that day, almost half were killed or Reginald William Harris wounded. Some 19,240 were killed. A combination of misjudgments and mishaps William Henry Taylor made this disaster inevitable. The biggest was to assume that the week-long British Albert Pannel artillery bombardment preceding the attack would destroy German defensive William Chappin positions, shatter German fighting morale and cut through the barbed wire in no Launcelot Adrian Hope Tyrrell man’s land. This turned out to be wrong in every respect. Indisputably, the Henry Basil Penberthy (Name does not appear bombardment was huge – over 1.5 million shells were fired. The crescendo on the memorial) Ernest Charles Stephen Cox reached on 1st July – a storm of shells, together with mines exploded under some German trenches – could be heard in parts of London, 165 miles away. But it failed The two killed on the first day (1st July 1916) both sufficiently to disrupt the German trenches or penetrate to the deep bunkers in serving with the Devonshire Regiment were: which German troops were sheltering. Many of the shells fired failed to explode and Ernest Cox (aged 18) was born in Sidmouth, son of Charles Cox (a farm none were of the type that could cut barbed wire effectively. Sufficient German labourer) and Elizabeth Ann Cox (a laundress). He lived with his parents at soldiers were able to emerge and use their machine guns to devastating effect. One Cheese Lane and served with the 2nd Battalion of the Devons, which attacked British soldier said the bullets looked like a single glistening fan. between Ovillers and La Boiselle. Somebody watching the progress of the 2nd The advancing British troops often found the barbed wire still intact, obstructing Devons in No-Man’s-Land thought the leading waves were lying down to take their way. Accurate German artillery barrages also added to the carnage, with cover. Most were in fact casualties. The 2nd Devons suffered 431 casualties on shells engulfing the attackers in many locations. Communications broke down the first day, around half their initial strength. Many fell to machine guns in an area between the units at the leading edge of the attack and their commanders behind they called ‘mash valley’. the rear. New waves of troops continued to be sent forward to meet the same George Robert Channing (aged 31) was born in Sidbury, son of Richard and fate. Some German defences were broken at various points during the day but Mary Jane Channing of 11 Holmdale, Sidmouth. He was a cab driver/coachman artillery barrages and counter-attacks resulted in later withdrawals in most cases. before the war with the Sidmouth firm of Lake and Sons. He served with the 8th Permanent gains were made in only a few places in the British sector, although Battalion of the Devons, which attacked along with the 9th Battalion from Mansel the French army fared better. Copse towards the village of Mametz. Estimates vary on how many men were killed or wounded during the 141 days of An officer from the 9th warned in advance that any machine gun placed at a fighting. According to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) the specific position at Mametz would be able to sweep the valley below with bullets. British forces suffered 420,000 casualties, of which 100,000-110,000 are thought He was reassured that the artillery barrage would obliterate the danger point.

26 27 Unfortunately it didn’t and hundreds of men from arrange the removal of the Duke’s body, his the 8th and 9th battalions were cut down, him father, George III, also died. His funeral included. took precedence so there were further delays before the funeral cortège was able His brother Richard Channing of the 44th to leave Sidmouth. Battalion Training Reserve is also honoured on the WW1 memorial tablets in Sidmouth Church. He The story now jumps to 1858. The Rev’d died of illness in August 1917 and is buried in Hans Hamilton had arrived at Sidmouth Sidmouth Cemetery, in a grave commemorated by parish church. It was dark and cramped, and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. a bigger church was needed for the growing population, so it was agreed to extend the Another brother, Ernest Channing , returned home east end. Eventually a plan for a more in 1919 after 15 years service in the Royal Navy complete rebuilding was agreed and work and was killed in a motorcycle accident at Sidford started in 1860. During the rebuilding, Cross. He is also buried in Sidmouth Cemetery. Sidmouth got infected with the “anti-popery” John McCarthy feeling that had blown up into rioting in London the previous year, and the vicar was accused of trying to impose “high church” George Robert Channing features against the will of the parishioners. This came to a head when the Queen graciously offered a window in memory of her father – which appeared to force the contentious move of the organ from in front of that window. The vicar was accused of using the Queen to force through his high church agenda and Peter Orlando The History of the Hutchinson made his famous visit to Osborne House to petition Her Majesty, Queen’s Window resulting in withdrawal of the offer. However, a recently rediscovered photo shows that the old perpendicular style window tracery had already been replaced by neo- The Sidmouth Local History Group meets on the Gothic tracery in readiness for the window and when, six years later, tempers had second Monday evening of every second month cooled and the removal of the organ was agreed by all, the offer was renewed and at 7pm in the Darlington Room of Abbeyfield the window was installed in its present position. It is Queen Victoria’s personal Court and welcomes anyone with an interest in monument to her father: the centre light of Jesus with the children (“Suffer little local history. Discussions evolve from issues children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of raised by members and occasional guests, each heaven”) is surrounded by depictions of Christians carrying out good works. Unlike of whom has particular areas of historical most windows in the church, the tracery is of Bath stone, which is slightly more interest. The next meeting is on September 12th. resistant than Salcombe stone. Nevertheless, 150 years of salt-laden wind and rain A recent discussion was prompted by the parish have now worn right through in several places and a complete renewal is necessary church plan to renew the stonework of the if the window is to be preserved. Work started in July, with the careful removal of “Queen’s Window”. Most of the history is well the glass and measurement of the old stone. The stonemasons at Wells are carving recorded, but a few novel details surfaced. The story starts in 1819. The Duke of the new stone to the same measurements, and we hope to have the window back Kent, George III’s fourth son, married in his 50s following a life of service in the in place in November. The church is very grateful for help from the Keith Owen military, mostly in Canada. In poor health and badly in debt, he brought his new Fund towards the preservation of this important part of Sidmouth heritage. wife and 8-month old baby, Victoria, to live at Woolbrook Glen cottage, now the However, it still has to raise more than one third of the £70,000 cost to complete the Royal Glen hotel, in Sidmouth, where the climate would be good for his health job, so any help will be very much appreciated. Gift leaflets and envelopes are and the distance from London good for his finances. Sadly, their stay was cut available inside the church entrance for anyone who feels able to contribute. short when the Duke caught a cold, which turned to pneumonia, and died. Brian Golding Distance from London was now very inconvenient and during the time taken to

28 29 Friends We Miss Apple Tales of the Sid Valley Robert Francis Pettigrew 28.7.1922-14.8.2016 Sidmouth had 102 orchards in the 19th century and Sidbury had 376, as seen in Bob and his wife Sheila, moved to Sidmouth prior to 1992, and took the 1840 Tithe Map and apportionments (1). Most orchards were found with the up residence in Sidcliffe. Their house had extensive views farms. The large houses also had orchards, for example the small orchard at Lime overlooking (what became) SVA’s Margaret’s Meadow, in the Byes. Park, tithe map apportionment 335. Before he retired, Bob was a bank manager. In 1992, Bob was Writing about 19th century Sidbury, Barbara Softly (2) wrote “Sidbury abounded in elected by the SVA to become our Honorary Treasurer, a role that he faithfully orchards – Pinn, Haymans and Ridgeway. They were mostly cider apple orchards performed for thirteen years, also guiding the Executive committee in matters of with trees such as Tom Putt, Sweet Alford, Sweet Rennet, Sour Jenny, Crimson fund investment, and for which we remain grateful. King, Fair Maid of Devon and Buscombe”. Every Twelth Night the ritual of Sheila and Bob were often seen happily walking into Sidmouth daily. Sheila’s Wassail took place to get rid of bad spirits and ensure a good apple harvest the health gave concern in 2005, and Bob resigned in order to be of greater help to following autumn (3). Barbara Softly wrote “On January evenings” in Sidbury of her. She passed away in 2007. Bob was invited to serve on the Keith Owen the 1800s, “the apple-singers or wassailers would come, welcomed with cider and Fund Investment Committee up to 2011, where his experience and care have bread and cheese, to sing under the trees until their carousels became too been valued. The funeral on Aug 30 was well attended by friends and residents raucous and everyone else wanted to sleep”. (2). of Sidcliffe, and Holmesley Nursing Home, and by former SVA colleagues. Devon was famous for cider. Sidford Farm, Sidford produced up to 5000 gallons Mary Munslow Jones 24.3.1916-11.7.2016 annually, up until the 1950s. The cider was sold to Branscombe publicans and Mary was a self-taught amateur naturalist, a lover of country walks, and Whiteways Cider (4). a prolific writer on natural and local history. As Newsletter Editor, I was With time, the landscape of Sidmouth gradually changed as orchard land was struck by her meticulous and accurate writing about the natural world. sold for building. The Ordnance Survey maps for 1889-1991 are useful for Mary grew up in Somerset. She wrote, “from my first sight as a toddler showing this change. (5). of the primrosy banks … I realised flowers were important to me”. However, in the 20th century new orchards appeared in Sidmouth. There were two As her father progressed to new jobs, she enjoyed both her childhood years in orchards at Arcot Orchard, the land between Malvern and Alexandria Roads, which Dorset, and in Worcester (teacher training, marriage to husband Esli). The arrival was included in the sale of the Arcot Estate in 1915 (4). The 1905 O/S 1:2,500 map of children Helen and Esmond was a great joy to them. Mary became a founder showed one orchard to the north west of Arcot House, and the 1933 O/S 1:2,500 member of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. map showed two orchards and two new buildings on the adjoining parcel of land. In 1976 Mary and Esli moved to Trowbridge, where Mary undertook local This site was Arcot Orchard, home to my aunt and uncle Mr & Mrs Sidney Parsons botanical surveys. Mary began to write well-researched natural history articles, and my cousins, during the 1950s and again from the 1960s to 1990. The previous which (later) we used to enjoy so much in the SVA newsletter, after Mary and Esli owner of Arcot Orchard was Mr Lancaster Smith, an agricultural journalist who retired to Sidmouth in 1985. Mary soon joined the SVA, Sidmouth Concert came to Sidmouth in 1915; he was also on Sidmouth Urban District Council. He Society, and SIDFAS, and enjoyed walking country paths with other members. died at home in Arcot Orchard on the 10th January 1949 (6). My aunt told a story that the apples Mr Lancaster Smith grew in his orchards were taken up to Sidmouth All Mary’s articles for the SVA, were based on the natural history of the Sid Vale; station for transportation. To make the job easier, Mr Lancaster Smith requested a featuring personal observations on local walks or of local gardens. She also favour from the owners of the new semi-detached houses being built in Winslade penned histories of visits by famous authors to Sidmouth – Jane Austen, Road. He asked for a pathway between two of the house sites, which would be in Elizabeth Barratt Browning and Beatrix Potter, and wrote regular articles for St. line with the drive into Arcot Orchard, so providing a shortcut. Sidmouth Museum Francis Church, of which she was a member. however does not have any record of Mr Lancaster Smith being a commercial Mary said she had spent some of her happiest years in Sidmouth. As she apple grower (6). Today the large orchard is built on, the second is lawn. became housebound she loved the view from her sitting room, seeing the cattle in Another new orchard is seen in the 1933 O/S 1:2,500 map. This orchard is the Sid Valley fields, and the clouds gathering above Soldiers Hill. Mary lived to Woolbrook Nursery, to the north of Manston. This nursery produced three new be a hundred, and said she thought she “had strayed into the 21st Century”! species of apples, the first was the Woolbrook Pippin, an eating apple, raised in Handel Bennett

30 31 1903 by J H Stevens and Son, Woolbrook Nursery, Sidmouth. It received an Award Sid Vale 2018 Calendar of Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society in 1929 (7). The second was the Woolbrook Russet apple, a cooking apple related to Bramley’s Seedling. This Photo Competition apple was also introduced in 1903 and won a Royal Horticultural Society Award of The Sid Vale Calendar is produced each Merit in 1930 (7). The third apple produced in November 1918, was the Lloyd year to raise money for the Sidmouth George, named after the Prime Minister. A specimen of the apple was sent to the Landscape Fund, formed jointly in 1986 by Prime Minister, who sent a reply of thanks (4). Today the nursery has been built on. the Sid Vale Association and the National During the years 1862-1939 there were only 8 cases of apple stealing recorded. Trust, for the conservation of the Sid Valley In the 1939 case, Mr W G Morrish, landlord of the Rising-Sun pub in Sidford, had countryside, to ensure that it remains all the fruit taken from his orchard in Sidford, the thieves were caught and unspoilt for future generations to enjoy. The punished (4). Mr Morrish was a brother of my grandfather Mr Arthur Morrish. (See Fund has contributed to the acquisition of SVA Newsletter 83). “The orchard behind the Rising Sun contained cider apples land such as Peaslands Knapp, Margaret’s including Tom Putt, which were small, red and lovely” said my second cousin Mrs Meadow and General Hunt’s Pond. Sandra Doyle, the grand-daughter of Mr W G Morrish. Sandra also mentioned the We are looking for photos of Sidmouth, large orchard at the top of Yarde Hill, where she enjoyed girl-guide camp-fires in Salcombe Regis or the Sid Valley with that the summers. WOW FACTOR ! If you would like to have one or more of your photos considered for Today the lost orchards of the Sid Valley are remembered in place names. inclusion, please submit them by email to Norma Cox (nee Morrish) [email protected] or on References a cd to: Landscape Calendar 2018, Sidmouth Museum, Hope Cottage, Church (1) www.eastdevonaonb.co.uk Street, Sidmouth EX10 8LY. Please include (2) Softly, Barbara. Tapping at the Garden Gate . 1995. your name, address, phone number, and Westcountry Books, Halsgrove House, Tiverton email address if you have one. The photos (3) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wassail should be jpeg or tiff files suitable for printing (4) Barnard, R. & Barnard, C. Report on Orchards in at A4 size, which means they should be a Sidmouth. Sidmouth Museum. 2016. minimum of 2,400x1,700 pixels and (5) www.oldmaps.co.uk preferably 3,400x2,500 or more to allow for cropping. Please note, entries are limited (6) Personal communication with Barnard, Woolbrook Russet to three photos per person. R&Barnard, C. Sidmouth Museum. 2016 www.bernwodeplants.co.uk (7) www.nationalfruitcollection.org.uk. The 14 chosen entries will win a copy of the Calendar and everyone submitting a photograph for consideration will be entitled Fancy Writing an Article? to order copies at a reduced rate. We welcome any article that has a relevance to the Sid Valley area and may The closing date for entries is 30th interest our members. The maximum word count is about 800 words and November 2016 so that the Calendar can go accompanying digital pictures are much appreciated. on sale at Easter next year, to give visitors a chance to buy this unique souvenir This newsletter is published twice a year in July and November and articles of their holiday right through the summer season. are required two months prior to publication. We cannot guarantee that all Please note that copyright on the photos remains with the photographer. By entering the articles submitted will be published. competition you are only giving the SVA permission to print the photos in the Calendar and use them to promote it in adverts etc, and not for any other use. Send your articles to Val Huntington: [email protected]

32 33 Fleet Air Arm Museum chair entrance on the ground floor. At the Gardens, there is wheel-chair access to the tea- & East Devon’s Secret Garden In Springtime room, shop and Nursery. Our Spring 2017 Tour includes: Coach, entrance fees, Fleet Air s

Excursion will take n

Arm Museum, Burrow Farm Gardens, Devon e d

place on Wednesday r Cream tea, Driver'. Cost £29.95. a 4 G 9 May 10. Discover the 5 m 0 r

1 Royal Navy’s historic A Booking Form and any further details for our a e F g Fleet Air Arm Museum Spring 2017 outing will be circulated by e-mail w a o r m I at Yeovilton in in January, to those who have already indicated r

u m B

an interest in receiving information. If you have

u Somerset. It provides e © s close up access to not already done so, and wish to receive u M aircraft used by British information, please send us your e-mail through Abundant Azealas – Burrow A

A crews for over 100 our website: www.sidvaleassociation.co.uk . F Farm Gardens

© years. View inside the Those who do not use e-mail, but have given us Search and Rescue their address or telephone number, will receive Sea King ZA298; or look around the Sopwith Baby (first to use air to air missiles a printed communication. in 1917). Learn about Pilot Rutland at the Battle of Jutland, May 1916. Handel Bennett You take a simulated helicopter ride to the flight deck of famous HMS Ark Royal, and be immersed in the Award-winning Aircraft Carrier experience. ‘Where museum meets theatre’. Watch dramatic take-offs and landings. Elsewhere, you TRAVEL EXPERIENCE? go onboard the first supersonic British built Concord; and may view dozens of Have you had the pleasure of being an restored historic and more recent aircraft, and the history of WRNS through excursion planner? There is now an 1917 -1986. There will be time to take refreshments in the Swordfish Restaurant. opportunity to help arrange a small In 2017 HMS Queen Elizabeth, the navy’s newest carrier, commences sea and excursion programme. If you like making flight trials! arrangements, or researching places of The tour continues through the town of Chard, to Dalwood on the Devon/Dorset interest in the South-west, please contact border, where we visit Burrow Farm Gardens. Often called East Devon’s Secret Handel Bennett, ’phoning (01395 514211) Garden, these landscaped gardens extend to 13 acres, featuring superb views of or by e-mail: [email protected] the surrounding countryside, spacious lawns, a Woodland Garden, stunning Azaleas, mature Rhododendrons, Wisteria and Bluebells in May. s

n Have we got your email address?

John and Mary Benger started planting here over e d r We would like to make sure we have up to date email addresses for all our 50 years ago, and the Anniversary Garden is a a G members. We promise not to bombard you with unwanted messages, but

celebration of their efforts. Mary will give us a short m r

a there are occasions when we would like to contact you between newsletters

talk on its history. There is a garden nursery for F

w with up to date information about events, or when we need your support. We

plants you may wish to take home. We will take a o r r know that some of you will have changed your email addresses since you Devon cream tea here, before we return to u B joined, and indeed many of you were members long before emails existed!

Sidmouth. © So please email [email protected] with your Please note both sites have stairs or steps, but Pond and country vistas – latest address. Thank You. 95% of the museum is accessible via the wheel- Burrow Farm Gardens

34 35 sid vale association MEMBERSHIP Membership Application Form sid vale association As a member of the Sid Vale Association you can do Please send completed form, with payment if your bit to help us increase our membership. Get a applicable, to The Membership Secretary (SVA) friend to join! past • present • future 67 Malden Road, Sidmouth EX10 9LZ We need to increase the membership in order to generate enough income to past • present • future make the Association self-supporting. We cannot rely on the legacies that have kept us going in the past and must look to increasing membership numbers to I/We wish to become Member(s) of the Sid Vale Association bring in funds and volunteers. Title Surname (BLOCK LETTERS please) Its only £8 per annum if you pay by standing order, which is the price of two pints of beer at most pubs in the town. First name(s) 1 Please can you get a friend to join us? Volunteering is not necessary but help in Second member running things is very welcome if it can be offered. But we need the Address subscription income. Please talk to your friends and use the membership application form in this magazine to get them signed up. Post Code Phone TREASURER REQUIRED E-Mail Address Neville Staddon is standing down as Treasurer of the SVA. The role is thus to EITHER I/We enclose my/our Annual/Life Membership subscription of £ become vacant and the SVA is appealing for help to find a new treasurer. Please delete as appropriate and make cheques payable to The Sid Vale Association The role requires a little accountancy experience but only involves between one OR I/We have completed the standing order mandate opposite (Please 3) and two hours work a week. It involves paying bills, expenses and bank reconciliation. It also involves the occasional report for the SVA executive GIFT AID SCHEME committee and for the investment committee. I wish to make payments under the Gift Aid Scheme. I want the Charity to treat as The treasurer would sit on the executive, investment and Keith Owen Fund Gift Aid ALL donations and subscriptions I make to the Association, from the date committees. Accounts are presently held on Excel spreadsheets. of this declaration, until I notify you otherwise. I confirm that I pay an annual amount of Income Tax which is not less than the amount of tax which may be The investment committee sits once every two months and looks after the Keith redeemed by the Sid Vale Association. Owen Fund and SVA investment fund. The SVA executive committee sits once Signature Date every two months. The Sid Vale Association is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registration number 1154749 The role also involves occasional research into a company being considered for investment. The investments are rarely changed, but if they are the treasurer SUBSCRIPTION RATES Outside the Sid Valley Within the oversees this. including postage Sid Valley By cheque or cash – or There are the usual involvements in the annual audit which is performed by Cheque/ Standing Cheque/ Standing cheaper by standing order! cash order cash order external auditors. ANNUAL MEMBER an individual £12 £10 £10 £8 If you feel you can help with this or know someone who might be interested in 2 at same address £18 £16 £16 £14 working with the oldest civic society in the country, please contact us. LIFE MEMBER an individual £120 - £100 - 2 at same address £180 - £160 -

Area Date Receipt Memb.Card WG NMM GA 36 Please join us – we welcome you as a member. If you Sidmouth Literary Festival would also like to volunteer please 3 for more information Sun, Sea & Books Poetry Competition Membership o Local delivery of magazines to members First prize winner in the 11-18 age group – Cameron Bryson (12) Magazine o Writing articles and editorial from The King’s School, Ottery St Mary. Museum o Stewards o Archivists o Computer Operators Sidmouth o Administration o Shop Sun spraying happiness over the beach, Meetings Team o Planning o Setting up in the Manor Theatre Giving joy to everyone like a peach. IT Presentations o Powerpoint presentations Seagulls make silhouettes in front of the sun Website o Updating of content o Technical management Scavenging for a lovely ice bun. Beams of sunlight make the calm sea glisten, Social Activities o Planning for social events You can hear the rocks clatter if you listen. Excursions o Planning Red rocks rising above the beach far down below Walkers o Monthly walks in East Devon When this great nature got here we’ll never know. Youth work o Contact with schools and young people Gigantic waves splashing like an army, Creating joy and fun for you and me. o o Keith Owen Fund Grants to community projects Investment planning I love cold ice cream melting in my hands, Footpaths o Monitoring and maintaining access on country paths This is when happiness really lands. River Patrol o Monitoring rivers and streams Smooth small stones skimming along the glistening sea, Woodlands and Estates o ‘Hands-on’ managing grass, hedging, trees, wild-life Get home before we get a parking fee! Conservation and Planning Team o Monitoring planning applications See the website for other winning poems

STANDING ORDER MANDATE

To The Manager Bank Branch Address Post Code Please set up the following Standing Order from my/our account Name(s) of account Sort Code - - Account Number

Recipient Sid Vale Association CIO n a m

Recipient’s Bank CAF Bank (Charities Aid Foundation) r e

25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent, ME19 4JQ w o B Sort Code 40 - 52 - 40 Account Number 00016416 n i l o C

Please pay the sum of £ First payment date © Quoting SVA reference Chris Woodruff of the Keith Owen Fund with judges of the Sun, Sea Regular payment date 1st January, yearly until further notice & Books poetry competition, Mantie Lister and Matt Harvey Signature Date 39 Dates for your Diary Saturday 29th October Museum closes for the winter Tuesday November 1st 10am – SVA Countryside Walk Leaders: David and Sonya Tel: 01395 579877 Meet: Entrance to the Byes at Primley Road. Parking on roadside. Grid Ref: SY 132 891 Wednesday 9th November 2.30pm – SVA Talk – Manor Pavilion ‘Back to the age of steam’ – the re-building of the locomotive ‘Sidmouth’. Speaker: Nick Thompson. Friday December 2nd Museum open 4-8pm Late Night Shopping in Sidmouth – don’t forget to call in at the Museum for your calendars, books and a great range of stocking fillers, and the launch of our the luxury fabric, that hides a world of poverty, new book: Sidmouth Lace – distress and power. Tuesday December 6th 10am – SVA Countryside Walk Leaders: Doug and Sheridan Tel: 01395 577891 Meet: The Bowd pub. Park in the overflow carpark. Grid Ref: SY 107 901. Walkers and friends are invited to have lunch at the pub after the walk. Please book your food orders before the start. Tuesday January 3rd 2017 10am – SVA Countryside Walk Leader: Bettina Tel: 01395 260599 Meet: Opposite the Puffing Billy pub in Exton Grid Ref: SX 982 864 We will climb gently uphill to Woodbury and then follow lanes down to Ebford, out to the estuary and back to the start. Optional lunch at Puffing Billy. Wednesday 11th January 2.30pm – SVA Talk – Manor Pavilion ‘The life and importance of bees’. Speaker: John Badley Tuesday February 7th 2017 10am – SVA Countryside Walk Leader: Graham Tel: 01395 445872 Meet: Joney's Cross Grid Ref: SY 057 898 Wednesday 8th February 2.30pm – SVA Talk – Manor Pavilion ‘Singing for the Soul’. Speaker Sam Abrahams. Tuesday March 7th 2017 10am – SVA Countryside Walk Leader: Norma Tel: 01395 513974 Meet: In Sidford carpark at 9.15am. We will then catch the bus at 9.30 to the Donkey Sanctuary Wednesday 8th March 2.30pm – SVA Talk – Manor Pavilion ‘Devon Country Houses in the 21st Century’. Speaker Hugh Meller. Tuesday April 4th 2017 10am – SVA Countryside Walk Leader: Liz Tel: 01395 514690 Meet: Sidbury carpark. Please share cars as the space is limited. Grid Ref: SY 138 919 Wednesday 26th April 2.30pm – Manor Pavilion Sid Vale Association Annual General Meeting Wednesday May 10th – SVA Excursion to Fleet Air Arm Museum & East Devon’s Secret Garden – see inside for details

The Sid Vale Association CIO is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registration number 1154749. The Association promotes conservation and heritage, the museum, and facilities for recreational and cultural activities in the Sid Valley

© 2016 Designed and published by the Sid Vale Association