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Very many thanks to the people who came to plant trees in our new little Orchard.

We had a super afternoon, people of all ages came to help and the weather stayed kind.

We are in the process of creating a map so that people can navigate around the Orchard and learn more about the different species of fruit trees we have for everyone to use.

Looking forward to watching them grow over the years!

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Happy New Year to all our readers. Next deadline for March 2020 issue It already looks like another busy year in the village with quite a Advertisements and Articles– February 15th few things to put in your diary. As well as the dates below there Next delivery date – 29th February will be a Village Street Party to celebrate the 75th VE Day The AbbTalk Association Committee: anniversary on Friday May 8th. Everyone Keep the Date!!!! More info in the March issue. This year’s Garden Show is on the 8th Ann Allen Editor ([email protected]) August. I know it’s early but plenty of time to start planning your Zoe Truman Secretary ([email protected] ) entries. For the energetic among you remember we have Viv Lynn Howard Treasurer ([email protected]) Cullen Pilates on Fridays from 9–10am and Alicia’s Zumba on Andrew Rose Abbotskerswell Cricket Club Representative Tuesdays from 6.15–7.15pm in the Village Hall. At the Village Hall ([email protected]) Open Day on Saturday 15th February you can check out the John Whitehead Picture Editor ([email protected]) groups who use the hall. If you’ve thought of maybe trying Richard Whiffin Church Representative something this is your chance to take a look and have a go! ([email protected]) Thank You to all those who have decided to sponsor AbbTalk with an annual subscription. It is much appreciated and will keep us going for the next few months but we still need more. If BEWARE!! anyone missed the Bankers Order there is a copy on page 21. Remember this is your magazine and all photos and articles are SECURE YOUR PROPERTY always welcome. IF YOU ARE AWAY FOR ANY Ann Allen, AbbTalk Editor [email protected] / 01626 330965 LENGTH OF TIME www.abbotskerswell.org.uk Cover photos: Abbotskerswell’s beautiful and If you are leaving your property empty for any ever-changing skies in 2019 taken by villagers: length of time, particularly if you live on your Top L: Gordon Aspland; Top R: Mandie Redfern Middle L: Karen Long; Middle R: John Whitehead; own, please let a friend or neighbour know that Bottom L: Ann Allen; Bottom R: Vernon Stunt you are away and how you might be contacted in the event of an emergency. Also, make sure Diary Dates for February 2020 that you have secured your property, closing ‘This Mum Loves to Sing’ windows and gates. Do everything you can to with the Chordettes ...... 5th & 12th ...... page 19 AbbPast monthly talk ...... 10th ...... page 8 give the appearance that the property is still Village Hall Open Day ...... 15th ...... page 27 occupied. Knit and Natter ...... 10th & 24th ...... page 9 There has been a recent break-in in the Village Paint and Splatter ...... 17th ...... page 7 in the absence of the owner. Messy Church ...... 20th ...... page 5 Abbotskerswell Emergency Planning Group Shrove Tuesday Pancakes Church House ...25th ...... page 5

Monthly Rainfall Totals Average Rainfall Year Totals rainfall for Monthly Totals— December continued the very wet theme which epitomised 2012‒2019 Teignmouth 2019 the end of 2019, with 183mm or 7.2ins of rain, this being 25% 1981‒2010 above the December average, December being the wettest mm ins mm ins mm ins month of the year normally. The last 4 months of 2019 have Jan 63.0 2.48 2012 1573.0 61.93 95.2 3.75 all seen above average rainfall totaling over 30ins, which was Feb 69.0 2.72 2013 1135.5 44.70 71.8 2.83 60% of the year’s total, with October being the wettest month Mar 112.0 4.41 2014 1230.0 48.43 69.4 2.73 I have ever recorded. Apl 66.0 2.60 2015 1060.0 41.73 58.4 2.30 I am certain global warming is the cause of these extremes as May 25.0 0.98 2016 931.0 36.65 58.8 2.31 often it isn’t the number of times it rains but the intensity of June 115.00 4.53 2017 872.0 34.33 50.5 1.99 the rainfall which is making our climate wetter. In fact 2019 July 28.0 1.01 2018 1257.0 49.49 45.5 1.79 saw some really warm and dry spells as well as all the rain. Aug 95.0 3.74 2019 1341.0 52.80 54.1 2.13 The tables show the changes over the years and when Sept 140.0 5.51 57.5 2.26 compared to Teignmouth (the nearest place I could find Oct 284.0 11.18 Avgs 1175.3 46.25 94.3 3.71 records for) for an earlier period, the changes are quite Nov 161.0 6.34 89.1 3.51 dramatic. In fact I have a Met. Office Climatological Atlas of Dec 183.0 7.20 102.9 4.04 the British Isles for the period 1901 – 1930 and this shows an 1341.0 52.80 847.5 33.37 average rainfall in our area of between 30 and 40ins per year. Only 2 years in the last 8 have been anywhere near “normal.”

Annual Rainfall Statistics kindly supplied by David Munden

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St Mary’s Church Priest: To be appointed Parish Office: Parish Church Office Church End Road Kingskerswell TQ12 5DL Tel: 01803 873006 Office Hours: M-F 10:00am – 2:30pm E-mail: [email protected] Church Wardens Pam Wakeham Tel: 07526 470080 Richard Whiffin Tel: 01626 365626 Please note our website: www.abbotskerswellchurch.org.uk

the worst of us, and always some bad in the best! Very little 11am start for main Sunday Services is black or white but somewhere in between. Please see Current pattern of Worship for full details We need more comprehensive and contemplative thinking – ‘both and’ rather than ‘either/or’. *********** So what’s new for you this year? A new commitment to the Behold, I make all things new (Rev 21v5) environment? New diet with more veg and fruit? New There are many references in the bible to things and exercise routine or quiet walks, with time to think of things people being made new, and always with an emphasis on it beyond the practical and everyday? being our choice e.g. ‘Be made new in your attitudes, put Please do keep an open mind. You may disagree with many on the new self created to be like God, in true things I write. You are meant to! You have to think for righteousness and holiness’ (Eph 4 24) or ‘Be kind and yourself and get it right for you as you are now and be open compassionate to one another forgiving each other as God to more change in the future. We can all keep looking for forgave you’ (Eph 4 32). the new as we go into a new month, a new year, a new Many who are disaffected with the church and certain decade. forms of Christianity long to discover a faith that they can Does a new inclusive church in Abbotskerswell include all inhabit with honesty and integrity. Inclusive community, the good folk who cook, clean up the environment, nurse, where all stages of faith and none, can with integrity encourage, spread love joy peace patience faithfulness embark on a journey of discovery, perhaps to reconnect gentleness and self-control? If so there is a big broad with the heart of Christianity which is Love. New and church here which should be recognised and celebrated for liberating ways to interpret the texts, metaphors and all its Christ-like qualities. symbols of Christianity are possible and valid. If once you Pat Heath 369416 had a child-like faith and later thought it through, or were not introduced to Christian thought at all, you may well have found that what the church tells you doesn’t ring true Regular events or fit with your life experience. Perhaps like me you Please remember that Church House is open every Tuesday realised that you can’t believe something just because from 10–11.30am for Coffee, Tea, Squash and wonderful cakes. someone tells you to. Even torture can’t make people really All ages are always welcome and a good time is had by all. believe, even though they may appear to assent to it. We can’t believe the world was made in six days, seeing fossils Thurs 7.00pm: Bell Ringers and understanding genetics as we do now. The bible was Contact: Liz Smyth-Osbourne 01626 368400 written in a very different culture, but still offers wonderful [email protected] truth. Baptism, Weddings and Funerals How are we to make sense of creeds written in a non- To make arrangements please contact the Church Office. scientific, non-technological society? Contact details are above. The present day creed of endless economic growth will fail as the earth runs out of resources, including food and Supporting Others water; and as we are all now able to be more aware of the A significant number of people are being visited regularly by injustice and oppression which helps to maintain the church members. We will continue to do all that we can to present system, change will come, because it must. meet the needs of others, during the time of being without a One of the new things we need is the ability to give up the dedicated priest in the village. Those who visit in people’s ‘either/or’ kind of thinking which has taken over the homes do so with the authority and support of the parish Western world since the reformation. Things and people church and will pass to the clergy any need for additional are not either good or bad. There is always some good in spiritual support.

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If you know of anyone who would welcome a visit at home There are a number of occasional services throughout the because they are not well enough to seek their own support, year which are advertised at Church House, on our website then please contact Pam Wakeham, Church Warden (07526 and in AbbTalk. 470080 ) or Pat Heath (01626 369416). Special Service Sunday Lunch 1pm – 1st Sunday of the month; Church House Ash Wednesday 26 February 2020 For over ten years a roast lunch has been served in Church Eucharist at Kingskerswell at 7pm House on the first Sunday of each month. It is enjoyed by people for whom Sunday otherwise tends to be a rather MESSY CHURCH – Thursday 20th February quiet day. The suggested donation is £6. Church House 10am – all welcome If you would like to come along for a meal, please contact Pat Mackness 01626 353529 NEW VICAR ARRIVES Current Pattern of Worship at St Mary’s We look forward to welcoming you to our worship. Rev Michael Wilkie will be inducted as Vicar of

1st Sunday of the Month Abbotskerswell, Coffinswell and Kingskerswell by the Lord Bishop of on Monday 24 February 2020 11am Eucharist (Common Worship – CW) A ‘sung’ service – with hymns and other music – using at 7pm at Kingskerswell Parish Church. contemporary language, lasting about an hour. All are very welcome and transport can be arranged 2nd Sunday of the Month – please contact Rosemary Whiffin 01626 365626. 8.00am Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer – BCP) A ‘said’ service – no hymns or music – service lasting about 40 minutes. 9am Fresh & Early – Church House SHROVE TUESDAY

An informal, contemporary service aimed at families and Tuesday 25 February 2020 11:30am to 2:00pm those who have little experience of formal church services and lasts about ¾ of an hour. PANCAKES in CHURCH HOUSE

3rd Sunday of the Month Sweet or Savoury Pancakes 11am Eucharist (CW) Tea, Coffee and Cakes A ‘sung’ service – with hymns and other music – lasting about an hour. Everybody welcome to come along and enjoy that most delicious of treats! 4th Sunday of the Month 11am Parish Praise A non-communion informal service using contemporary language and music lasting about 40 minutes. 6pm (BST) Choral Evensong (BCP) A non-communion sung service of the word, lasting about an hour.

5th Sunday of the Month (as appropriate) 10am Eucharist (CW) at St Mary’s Kingskerswell A ‘sung’ service – with hymns and other music – lasting about an hour.

(Eucharist services are also available at Coffinswell 9am; and Kingskerswell 10am.)

Love reading but you can’t There is a box in St Mary’s Church for the collection of non-perishable foodstuff for get to your library the Foodbank. The Home Library Service All donations are gratefully received and the box is emptied regularly. Thank you. can bring BOOKS – CDs etc to your door for FREE Contact: KINGSKERSWELL LIBRARY 01803 873723

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The December session saw PAINT & SPLATTER everyone creating a festive scene of the 3 wise men plus a little added sparkle! If you’d like to join us here are the 2020 dates: Feb 17th / Mar 16th / Apr 20th / May 18th / Jun 15th / Jul 13th Church House—10am—12.00pm £5 to cover materials No experience needed. You’ll be amazed what you can do!.

WILTON WAY, ABBOTSKERSWELL

Welcome to our beautiful 17th century village Inn, with traditional values & a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

We can cater for private dining, parties, wedding receptions and business meetings. We also specialise in outside bars & catering.

Lunchtime Specials are served Monday to Friday Bars are open all day every day at only £6.95. Food service Monday to Wednesday Sunday Roast Dinners are freshly prepared and lunchtimes and evenings served all day. Sunday Prize Draw starts at 5pm. Food service Thursday to Sunday All day Takeaway Menu also available.

01626 361866/ [email protected] / www.courtfarminn.com

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AbbPast : The History Group of Abbotskerswell AbbPast Extras – Abbotskerswell World War 1 Memorials, Part 1

When we launched our Roll of Honour Project in 2012 little did we know how that small idea would grow into what AbbPast has achieved. We renovated the three graves of the men buried in the village churchyard and had the six gravestones carrying family memorials cleaned and then on the 100th anniversary of the declaration of the war that would become known as The Great War, we launched our publication Abbotskerswell During World War 1. Our research was extensive but, as with the six volumes of the Abbotskerswell Village History Series, the publishing of the research then produces more contacts and more material; this is why we are now revisiting the publication and including this new material in our monthly AbbTalk Extras.

In the six years since our publication new memorials of three men from the Roll of Honour have come to our attention. Firstly the family of Harry Hawkins MM contacted us and sent us this photograph of Harry’s Military Medal that is still in the family; when this award is made the person can always have MM after their name. This is because the Military Medal is an award for, as the medal shows left, ‘Bravery in the Field’. In Harry’s case this was awarded on 26 March 1917.

Sadly Harry ‘died of wounds received in action’ on 5 December 1917, aged 31 and was buried in the Fins New British Cemetery at Sorel-le-Grand in France. The poster, right, the like of which I have never seen before, reflects on the monuments that were being constructed after the war but refers to Harry’s burial place.

After the war ended each family was given a bronze plaquette with the deceased’s name engraved on it – what became known as the ‘Dead Man’s Penny’ and a scroll from the King. Again Harry’s family still have his and these are shown here.

AbbPast is indebted to Harry’s great nephew, Barry Honeywill, for the photographs of these remarkable memorials to one our village’s lost young men.

Although all 1000 of the WW1 publication have been given out, the PDF is on the AbbPast website: www.abbpast.co.uk

Our next Monthly Meeting is on Monday 10th February at 7.30pm in Church House Villager Ute Brice, tells of her experiences of childhood In post-World War 2 Germany

THE ORCHARDS OF ABBOTSKERSWELL AbbPast are working on a new publication that will, in part, support the work of the Community Orchard. We would love to hear from anybody with recollections of the orchards or the work at Henley’s Cyder Works so we can tell the story of the importance of the huge number of village orchards; in 1906 there were over 50 of them. We would also like to borrow any photographs of the orchards, no matter what was happening in the picture as the only photographs we have merely show orchards in the distance. Pete Wade 9 Corn Park Road [email protected] 01626 366032 8 www.abbotskerswell.org.uk

The members of the Knit & Natter group have once again been busy and some of you may have found an angel on your doorstep!

We manged to knit and crochet over 80 angels to be distributed around the village before Christmas with the remainder being placed on a Christmas tree in the church for people to help themselves. We hope you enjoyed them. We are still busy making bunting for the County Show in May. Having sent off 100 flags in October we’re about ready to send the next 100. Check the progress on Facebook by looking up Devon County Show, Longest Knitted Bunting group page. We were also able to donate a further £100 to the Village Hall for Project Heat (new kitchen). This resulted from sales of our wares at the Village Hall artisan markets last year. If you’d like to join us our next meeting is on Monday 10th February in the Parish Rooms from 2–4pm. £2 including tea and biscuits. Everyone welcome. If you can’t knit or crochet we would be happy to teach you and we have plenty of wool and needles. Contact Ann Allen: [email protected] for more info.

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EXPIRES Feb 2020 Feb EXPIRES

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TOLCHARDS HAIR Cair ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS The Salon in the Village

ALL ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN SAM TOLCHARD FULLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN Ladies, Gents & Children’s Hairdressing DOMESTIC | INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIAL

[email protected] 07368508127 for an appointment call Abbotskerswell 361600

Cleaner Ovens Established in 2003 Office: 01626 363748 Let us put the sparkle back into your Oven Prices from £50.00 Telephone Chris Hallwood

Freephone: 0800 5838463 Mobile: 07966 613160

Tree surgery Hedge Trimming ROB EWERS Felling~Pruning 4 Arch Cottages Stump Grinding

Log Delivery Free Estimates Tel: 07878 265631 Fully Insured Woodchip Supplied email: [email protected]

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TO ADVERTISE HERE email: [email protected] When contacting advertisers please mention AbbTalk

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On 22nd November Abbotskerswell Twinning Association organised a fund raising concert. They played host to the Devon Youth Jazz orchestras. Despite dreadful weather 50 talented youngsters made their way to Abbotskerswell to entertain a packed village hall to a wide variety of jazz styles. The audience came from all over Devon.

The music was enthusiastically received. During the evening a light supper was served to 150 people including the bands. We have since heard from the bands that they have never been looked after so well and that they hope newcomers to the band don’t expect such treatment everywhere! The Abbotskerswell Twinners would like to thank all those who supported the evening and especially they would like to thank the Model Stores, The Orchard Café and Deli and the Court Farm Inn for their generous donation of prizes to the raffle. This lovely evening’s music provided by the Devon Youth Jazz Orchestras successfully raised over £1000 towards the events the Twinning Association will be organising during the next year which will include the visit by our French friends in May. If you would be interested in finding out more about Twinning in Abbotskerswell please contact Liz Clowes (chair) on 07753 607676 or [email protected]. Look out for one of our regular meetings. We are always pleased to welcome guests. www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 15

With the festive season upon us the Abbotskerswell Twinning Association held their annual dinner- dance so as not to miss out on any celebrations. This year we decided to stay in the village holding the event at our usual meeting location of Church House and laying on a spread of food prepared by members. We were welcomed with glasses of Prosecco and pre-dinner nibbles. We then had some superb roast beef and two salmon cooked by Gary Wills and Garry Kendall – must be some connection between their names and good food. Salads, dauphinoise potatoes and a selection of puds and cheeses completed the meal before taking to the dance floor with songs and music from singer/guitarist Tom Beattie making a return visit entertaining us.

Our next meeting was in Church House on Saturday 4th January and was our annual general meeting where chairman Julie Arrow reviewed the past year. A new chairman and committee were elected and plans for 2020 discussed.

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Abbotskerswell Twinning Association AGM at Church House early January.

Retiring chairman Julie Arrow making her speech to members

Julie Arrow, right, receives farewell gifts from the new chairman Liz Clowes.

Twinning’s new chairman Liz Clowes with her committee Julie Arrow, Celia and Andy Rose, Alan Kitchen with, seated, Rosemary Whiffin, Dorne Cornelius and Linda Banks.

HOSTING FRENCH VISITORS TO THE VILLAGE

Have you ever thought you would like to welcome some visitors from another country to share your culture and your home? Well there is an opportunity available in the near future. Abbotskerswell Twinning Association is welcoming our French Twinning friends from Le Pre D’Auge and Les Monceaux from Thursday 21 May around teatime to Sunday 24 May in the morning. Our friends will be taken out on a trip on Friday followed by an evening safari meal around the village in the evening. On Saturday they will spend time with families before the celebration meal and dance in the Village Hall on the Saturday night. Our French friends would like to bring a few more in their party than we can currently host. So, regardless of whether you are a member of Twinning or have ever had any contact with the Association before, this is an invitation to you to offer to host a French couple, or perhaps family, and to share an enjoyable weekend with them and other French and village families. I am sure you will find it a rewarding experience. If you wish to know more or want to offer to host a French family please contact Andrew Rose, Secretary Abbotskerswell Twinning Association 01626-351886 or [email protected].

WHERE IS IT?

The answer to last month’s photo was a spot of topiary at Priors, Slade Lane. Did you find it?

Any ideas on this one? Taken by our photographer, John Whitehead, but remember if you think you know of a hidden gem then do send in your photo to John and we’ll try and include it.

[email protected] Answer in March AbbTalk www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 17

ABBOTSKERSWELL PTFA MONTHLY DRAW

PLEASE HELP US IMPROVE AND MAINTAIN OUR NEW SCHOOL LIBRARY!

As you may be aware the school has been incredibly lucky to have a newly refurbished library. The library is not only a place for children to read books but a space for children to have intervention and time for reflection and relaxation. We are hoping to use some of the PTFA funds to extend this environment to the outside area next to the library with places for children to utilise the outdoor space. Keeping the library updated with suitable books is also of utmost importance and something the PTFA hope to continue supporting.

Previously the Abbotskerswell Recreation Association ran a fantastic monthly draw to help raise funds to provide the village with some amazing facilities. They decided last year that they could no longer facilitate this draw, and kindly offered it to the PTFA.

The draw works by people donating £12 per year (this can also be done in £1 monthly instalments) The more people who sign up the more money the PTFA will raise, any surplus monies, once the monthly winnings have been paid, will go straight to the PTFA pot.

Each month a number is drawn, and the lucky winner will receive £50 cash!!! In December this amount will double to a fantastic £100 ……Perfect timing for Christmas!

The winner will be drawn by the school children on the 3rd Friday of the month in the assembly. The winners will be shown in AbbTalk magazine, displayed in the window of the village shop and local Orchard Café.

Signing up for the PTFA draw couldn’t be easier…

1. Cash or cheque made payable to Abbotskerswell PTFA FOR £12 (This is for 12 months) 2. A Standing order for £1 a month to the account details below: Account no: 68397568 Sort Code: 30-84-67 Account: Abbotskerswell PTFA

We are keen to get the draw up and running for April so have set a deadline for purchasing tickets for the 1st April 2020. We hope the first draw will take place on Friday 17th April 2020.

If some members of your family would like to support us by purchasing a ticket this would be very much appreciated as the draw is open to all those willing to support the school.

If you would like any further information regarding the draw, please contact:

Jenny King 07714078527 Victoria Reed 07811671825

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VILLAGE HALL VOICE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

25TH & 26TH JAN – TAI CHI WEEKEND 5TH FEB & 12TH FEB – ‘THIS MUM LOVES TO SING’ WITH THE CHORDETTES 15THFEB – NATIONAL VILLAGE HALL OPEN DAY (ALBEIT 3 WEEKS LATE) 7TH MAY – POLICE & CRIME COMMISSIONER ELECTION 9TH MAY – ‘DAVIS, LINDLEY & MULLAN’ PLUS ‘MUTTER & CLIVE’ CONCERT TH 8 AUG – GARDEN SHOW You may remember from the last issue of AbbTalk, the hall is opening its doors to demonstrate some of the activities which take place in this fantastic village facility. We welcome you all to come and join us whatever age between 10am and 3pm on Feb 15th for the opportunity to watch or have a go at one or all of the demonstrations. The groups welcome all levels of ability, but if you just want to watch that’s ok too. These will include: Alicia Price Zumba / Abbotskerswell Short Mat Bowls / Chordettes Accapella Choir / Badminton / Pre-School / Rebecca Rees Posture Perfect / Viv Cullen Pilates

We will once again have our Project Heat Kitchen Extension plans on display with committee members on hand to answer questions about this or anything else regarding the village hall. You may be thinking of starting a new club in the village and want to know what is available to use, size and costs of the hall or just want it for the one off event or just a nosey because you have never been in the hall, but whatever the reason we really look forward to welcoming you and chatting over a cup of tea.

Lynn Howard 07702 092278 or email [email protected]

ABBOTSKERSWELL VILLAGE HALL TRUST – HIRE RATES ALL BOOKINGS ARE SET AT £8.00 PER HOUR PER ROOM INC LIGHTING & HEATING One room all day ...... £100.00 One room 6pm–midnight ...... £45.00 Two rooms all day ...... £160.00 Two rooms 6pm–midnight ...... £90.00 Use of bar ...... £10.00 Weddings ...... £320.00 (includes preparations the day before and clearing up the day after) Tel: 01626 351564 Registered Charity No. 264508

Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. He is rich who owns the day and no one owns the day who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety.

Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities, no doubt crept in. Forget them as soon as you can, tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely, with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.

This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterday.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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The Golden Swan – a story by Pam Wakeham “Captain to the bridge, Sir, Captain to the bridge.” Frank Norton grabbed his cap and hurried up the companionway. He found the bridge crew grouped around the big radar screen looking very puzzled. “Sir, we have a very peculiar vessel following us, on the same heading as ourselves and coming at a very high speed. The computers are not picking up any known ship and there is no answer to our calls. She will crash into our stern in approximately 10 minutes.” “Right” said Frank “full ahead and hard to port”. The enormous destroyer began to move. “Send up the Recon and get us some pictures”. Within minutes the helicopter was up and away. “Course 526, then heave to and we’ll see what comes up” continued Frank. Moments later the Recon’s voice, in astonishment said “Sir, this is a centuries old galleon with enormous holes in her sides, some masts are down and there are wounded lying on the deck. I have been round three times but not a soul has noticed. She’s doing 40 knots but leaving no wake behind her. What I’m actually seeing is impossible!” “A name Recon, find her name” said Frank as a certain idea hit him. “Looks like ‘The Golden Swan’” came the reply. The captain’s face was beaming. “To think we should see this day.” He grabbed the mike from the sound system. “This is the Captain, I am ordering an immediate green alert to all crew, grab every camera you can find and assemble on the starboard deck right away”. Within seconds crew began pouring onto the deck. Frank grabbed the tannoy mike when most seemed to be there. “In just a few minutes we are about to witness a centuries old legend” he said “and I want a least a thousand photographs”. A dark shape could be seen approaching now with the helicopter hovering overhead. Nearer and nearer it came. “Cameras” roared Frank to his awestruck crew. Then The Swan was tearing past at an impossible speed. Great holes visible in her side, masts shot down but not a soul looked at the destroyer as it passed in complete silence and then barely a few hundred yards on it completely disappeared, leaving a very astonished crew. Frank’s eyes were shining as he beamed around. “To think we should be lucky enough to see this day” he said happily. Within minutes pictures were being transmitted to a very astonished Admiralty and within the hour Naval historians around the world were delving into anything they could find on The Golden Swan. Co-ordinates were plotted to the finest degree, for this was history in the making. The following year, the destroyer was hove to, in exactly the same place at the same time, waiting for The Swan. This time though, there were Bishops and assorted clergy. A marine band and crew in full dress uniform and newspaper photographers from all over the world. Fifty sailors lined the rails holding wreaths. A platform had been built to allow the clergy to stand on to give the last rites and blessings as The Swan went by, for it was 250 years to the day when The Swan had gone down with all hands and tension mounted as the hour approached. Then at last the helicopter’s message “The Swan is on the way”. The visitors walked out on the platform, camera crews got ready. Then came the message “Sir, there is something different this time, she is slowing down and the crew are all watching me”. “Sir, she is still slowing”. And the nearer she got the slower she became, not a sound was heard as well over a thousand people watched the poor battered vessel approaching. She reached the stern barely moving and stopped alongside with each crew watching the other. Frank walked to the front of the platform and raised an arm in salute, answered by one in reply. The clergy stepped forward and gave prayers, the last rites and blessings. The crew stood rigidly to attention, their white uniforms gleaming in the sun. Aboard The Swan the wounded were propped up and the crew motionless. The band then struck up with ‘Eternal Father strong to save, whose arm has bound the restless wave’. Tears rolled down many faces but no one moved. Frank looked up at the crows nest on The Swan, at a small boy perched high above. He held up a small wreath, pointed to the boy and then to the wreath, indicating it was just for him. The boy clasped his hands together, held his arms above his head and grinned mightily. The Swan then began to move. The destroyer crew stood to attention and saluted, answered by waves from The Swan, everyone knowing this was the last time. The Swan reached her last position then vanished as before. The destroyer inched forward and one by one the wreaths went overboard with the little boy’s last of all. They waited for an hour or so and then a very subdued ship headed for home and into the history books.

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ABBTALK Abbotskerswell Pilates Village Hall – Every Friday morning 9am–10am VOLUNTARY SUBSCRIPTION SCHEME

To date we have received 17 subscribers to AbbTalk for which we are very appreciative but more will be needed for us to continue long term.

We will let you know each month how this is going.

If you would like to be part of the scheme please complete the Banker’s Order below. All levels and abilities catered for. Please feel free Completed mandate forms to be handed in at to come along and give the class a try. the Orchard Café who will pass them on to the We are a lovely friendly group and welcome any AbbTalk Committee. newcomers male and female alike!

If you place the forms in a sealed envelope they If you would like further info will be dealt with by our treasurer, Lynn Howard. Please contact me: Viv Cullen THANK YOU Mobile 07906 989367 email [email protected]

BANKER’S ORDER

To the Manager ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Bank PLC

Address ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Please pay to AbbTalk Association at HSBC PLC, 42 Courtenay St, ,TQ12 2EB Sort Code: 40-36-02 Account No: 01633856

The sum of £ …………………….. commencing on (date) ……………………………. and a like sum every year until further notice.

Please debit my account

Account Name …………………………………………………………….. Account Number …………………………………………………………. Sort Code ……………………………………………………………………….

Signed ………………………………………………………………………

Address inc postcode ...……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 21

e) Grant of Conditional Planning Permission – Application no 19/01101/FUL – Ms J Scott – 24 Stoneyhill – Single and two storey rear extension. f) Grant of Conditional Planning Permission – Application Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting Held no 19/01228/FUL – Mr R Craven – Moor Tang, Two Mile Monday 25th November 2019 Oak – Construction of summer house above existing garden shed. at Parish Rooms, Abbotskerswell Meeting commenced at 7.30pm 4) Matters Arising a) NA3 update – D Cllr R Daws reported (a copy attached Present – Cllr Mrs M Colclough, Cllr Mrs A Walkden, Cllr Mrs to the minutes). A Allen, C Cllr A Dewhirst (from item 4), Cllr P Marino, Cllr Mrs b) Housing needs survey – Cllr Mrs A Allen reported that a L Clowes. site in the village would need to be found first before In Attendance – No public present. any further could be done to provide the 6 homes needed.

Apologies for Absence – Cllr C Ward, D Cllr R Daws, Cllr Mrs c) New Village Signs – carried forward to the next meeting. W Grierson (Chairman), Mr V Stunt (Allotments). d) Noticeboard Repairs – some designs have been circulated to be decided at the next meeting. Declarations of interest e) Engraved Bench Replacement – new bench quote from In the absence of the Chairman the Vice-Chairman – Cllr P Street Master is to be ordered – total cost £534.00 this Marino took the meeting. th is to include the carved inscription along the back. 1) Minutes of the Parish Council meeting – Monday 28 f) CIL Monies – Proposed by Cllr P Marino that this money October 2019. goes towards phase 2 of the Playpark refurbishment The minutes have been distributed and read – seconded by Cllr M Colclough with all in agreement.

Proposed by Cllr Mrs A Walkden & seconded by Cllr 5) Correspondence Mrs M Colclough with all in agreement and duly signed by the Vice-Chairman – Cllr P Marino. Matters not requiring discussion placed in the folder to be circulated. 2) Public Time (Limited to 15 Minutes) 6) Main Agenda 3) Planning Applications & Decisions a) Report from County Cllr A Dewhirst – see written report a) Application no 19/02050/FUL – Mr & Mrs A Nichols – attached to the minutes. Ashley Priors, Road – Extension to lounge and b) Report from District Cllr M Colclough & District Cllr R Daws. larger dormer to main dwelling and sunroom and Cllr Mrs M Colclough reported that TDC agreed to utility to annexe. The Parish Council noted that this contribute £250,000 to superfast broadband which will has been granted today. be matched by main government. Noise limit action against b) Application no 19/02284/CAN – St Marys Church – the sale of fireworks, RSPCA are campaigning on this. Works to trees in the Churchyard. The Parish Council c) Natural Environment have reservations about the amount of work proposed, a. Tree Warden Report – Cllr Mrs A Walkden reported Cllr A Walkden will speak to Mark Waddams and community orchard planting on Saturday. Many suggest a site meeting to discuss this further. thanks to Paul Richards for all his help on this project. c) Application no 19/02270/FUL – Mr B Gartman – The b. Allotments Report – nothing to report. Meadows, Maddacombe Road – Retention of new c. Sustainable Abbotskerswell – Cllr Mrs A Walkden dwelling. The Parish Council comments on the last reported that meetings will be organised every 2 application still stand as being applicable. This months and each meeting will have a particular application should be refused as it is a new dwelling in agenda so people interested can join in, this will the open countryside and so would contradict the be advertised in AbbTalk and on the Facebook Abbotskerswell Neighbourhood Plan and TDC Local site. Declaration of Climate Emergency will be Plan being outside the development boundary. If this proposed to be adopted in January 2020 by the application is going to be approved then the Parish Parish Council this is being advertised in AbbTalk Council would like it to be decided by Committee. and on the Facebook site and website.

Decisions Received from Teignbridge District Council. d) Transport and Accessibility a) Grant of Consent – Application no 19/02034/TPO – Mrs a. Emergency Planning Committee report – whats Mansfield– 59 Wilton Way – Tree works to diseased ash. app notice for torrential rain has gone around b) Grant of Conditional Consent – Application no again tonight. 19/01057/LBC – The Priory – Replacement conservatory, b. P3 Report – nothing to report. re-lay entrance path, internal remedial and c. DCC, Highways, Potholes, Roads & Hedges. redecoration works. 1) Drain in Wall at Odle Hill House – some c) Grant of Conditional Planning Permission – Application pictures will be taken to send to DCC and no 19/01346/FUL – The Priory – Replacement entrance ask if anything can be done about this as atrium. water has been flooding horizontally out of d) Grant of Conditional Planning Permission – Application the wall during the recent rainfall. no 19/01639/FUL – Mr & Mrs D DeFriend – Glebe C Cllr A Dewhirst confirmed that he will House, Vicarage Road – Detached Garage. contact the Highways Officer about this to

22 www.abbotskerswell.org.uk

see what can be done and will be raised as Cheque no 1799 = £172.41 – Kath Roscoe (Cleaning November). a potential flood risk. Cheque no 1800 = £50.00 – C Bloxidge (Litter Pick November). 2) Caravan at Manor Gardens which is Cheque no 1801 = £553.41 – Sharon Raggett (Wages November).

parked on the grass verge – C Cllr A ARA Dewhirst confirmed this is on the Cheque no 1244 = £2,300.00 (vat £383.33) Angelfire Neighbourhood Highway Officers list Pyrotechnics Ltd (Fireworks) to come and look at then a letter can Bank Balances be written to the owner. In the ARA Account Balance November 2019 = £9,428.28 meantime a letter will go to the Village Events Account - £551.28 (held within ARA Account) owner from the Parish Council. Parish Council Bank Balance November 2019 = £52,069.19 e) Economy and Employment – nothing to report. P3 = £700.00 (held within Parish Council Account). f) Community, Facilities and Assets CIL Monies £11,274.35 (held within Parish Council Account). a. Abbotskerswell Recreation Association report – Cllr P Marino reported – fireworks went well Proposed by Cllr Mrs A Allen & seconded by Cllr Mrs M £2700.00 was banked and the primary school did Colclough with all in agreement.

well with their food stall. After costs of Fireworks 8) Any Items to go onto next Parish Council Meeting’s Agenda.

taken out £500 profit was made. Phase 2 of the There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.11pm play area – various grant applications will be looked Next Parish Council Meeting Abbotskerswell Parish Rooms – at. After this the skatepark will be looked into. Monday 16th December 2019 @ 7.30pm. b. Village Hall Report – Cllr P Marino reported that the Viridor grant application needs more ANY MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC WHO HAS SPECIAL NEEDS AND information on quotes which will be submitted REQUIRES A COPY OF THESE MINUTES SENT TO THEM – by January 2020. AGM on 10th December. New PLEASE CONTACT THE CLERK – 01364 654607

Trustee – Mrs Ann Allen. Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting Held c. Consultations – Primary School reported – Monday 16th December 2019 funding for a defib currently being looked at, trial of a walking bus in the mornings from the Court at Parish Rooms, Abbotskerswell Meeting commenced at 7.30pm Farm to alleviate parking, parent volunteers are needed. Quiz night on 5th December at The School Present – Cllr Mrs W Grierson (Chairman), Cllr Mrs M – all welcome £3 per person. Colclough, Cllr Mrs A Allen, C Cllr A Dewhirst, Cllr P Marino, g) Communications Committee Report. Cllr Mrs L Clowes, Cllr C Ward. h) Reports from Parish Councillors of any external In Attendance– 1 member of the Public, Mr V Stunt (Allotments). meetings or Committees. Apologies for Absence – Cllr Mrs A Walkden. a. TALC – nothing to report. b. Stoneycombe Liasion – nothing to report. Declarations of interest th 7) Cheques for Signature/Finances 1) Minutes of the Parish Council meeting – Monday 25 November 2019. Parish Council Cheque no 1782 = £600.00 – AbbTalk (PC Grant). The minutes have been distributed and read – Cheque no 1783 = £20.00 – Ashburton Post Office (Stamps). Proposed by Cllr P Marino & seconded by Cllr Mrs A Cheque no 1784 = £500.00 – Devon Communities Together Allen with all in agreement and duly signed by the (Housing Needs Survey). Chairman – Cllr Mrs W Grierson.

Cheque no 1785 = £18.44 (vat 87p) – British Gas (Toilet Electric). 2) Public Time (Limited to 15 Minutes) – No points raised. Cheque no 1786 = £15.88 (vat £2.65) – C K Farrelly (Field 3) Planning Applications & Decisions Fencing repairs). Cheque no 1787 = £82.39 (vat 3.92) – EDF (Parish Rooms Electric). Applications received from Teignbridge District Council – none. Cheque no 1788 = £119.34 (vat £4.20) – EDF (Pavillion Electric). Cheque no 1789 = £142.46 (vat £5.31) – EDF (Tennis Court Decisions/Appeals received from Teignbridge District Electric). Council Cheque no 1790 = £86.80 (vat £17.36) – Mrs W Grierson a) Grant of Conditional Planning Permission – Application (Plants for Village). no 19/02050/FUL – Mr & Mrs A Nichols – Ashley Priors Cheque no 1791 = £48.00 (vat £8.00) – Clystnet (Web Support Oct). – Extension to lounge & larger dormer to main dwelling Cheque no 1792 = £11.76 – Mrs E Clowes (Facebook Ad). and sunroom and utility to annexe.

Cheque no 1793 = £42.95 (vat £7.16) – Mrs A Walkden 4) Matters Arising (Wildflower Seeds). a) NA3 update – 2nd appeal which was lodged has now Cheque no 1794 = £48.84 – South West Water Business (Toilets). been withdrawn. Buxtons Solicitors have applied for Cheque no 1795 = £18.12 (vat £1.59) – South West Water costs from the inspectorate as they had started some Business (Parish Rooms). paperwork ready to submit for this. Cheque no 1796 = £88.80 – South West Water Business (Pavillion). b) Housing needs survey – Cllr Mrs A Allen confirmed that Cheque no 1797 = £300.00 – Chris Yates (Village Cleaning). a piece will go into AbbTalk asking if any land is Cheque no 1798 = £94.99 – Sharon Raggett (Computer Update available for a small site. & Repairs). c) New Village Signs – a quote will be sought for a new

www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 23

main sign for the Village entrance and then a decision meetings or Committees. will be made on how many more are needed. a. TALC. d. Noticeboard Repairs – 5 boards in the Village, a survey b. Stoneycombe Liasion.

will be done on Facebook and in AbbTalk asking if 7) Cheques for Signature/Finances Parishioners use them as the Parish Council are going Parish Council to cut them down to 3 boards possibly if they are not Cheque no 1802 = £383.33 – Abbotskerswell Recreation used as they are all in a bad state of repair. Association (Fireworks VAT).

5) Correspondence Cheque no 1803 = £37.77 (vat £92p) – British Gas (Toilet Electric).

Matters not requiring discussion placed in the folder to be Cheque no 1804 = £60.00 (vat £10.00) – South West Plumbing circulated. (Parish Rooms Repair). Cheque no 1805 = £93.60 (vat £15.60) – Coast 2 Coast Fire 6) Main Agenda Protection Ltd. a) Report from County Cllr A Dewhirst – see written Cheque no 1806 = £164.20 – Kath Roscoe (Cleaning December). report attached to the minutes. Cheque no 1807 = £50.00 – C Bloxidge (Litter Pick December). b) Report from District Cllr M Colclough & District Cllr R Cheque no 1808 = £553.41 – Sharon Raggett (Wages December). Daws – nothing to report. Cheque no 1809 = £48.00 (vat £8.00) – Clystnet (Web Support). c) Natural Environment a. Tree Warden Report – Cllr Mrs A Walkden Bank Balances reported – Abbotskerswell Community Orchard ARA Account Balance December 2019 = £11,953.28 tree planting afternoon on 30th November Village Events Account – £551.28 (held within ARA Account). seemed to go well. We had approx 30 villagers Parish Council Bank Balance December 2019 = £39,835.28 attend and lots of children. Six bird boxes were P3 = £700.00 (held within Parish Council Account). CIL Monies towards Phase 2 of Playpark = £11,274.35 put up and areas of scrub cleared to make it an easier area to walk around and enjoy. Currently Proposed by Cllr Mrs A Allen & seconded by Cllr Mrs M looking into getting a bench from somewhere for Colclough with all in agreement.

general use there, also designing a map of all the 8) Any Items to go onto next Parish Council meeting trees planted that people can eventually access Agenda. online. Also looking into best ways to label trees There being no further business the meeting closed at more permanently and the possibility of an 8.35pm interpretation board too. b. Allotments Report – Mr V Stunt reported that Next Parish Council Meeting Abbotskerswell Parish Rooms – Paul Richards is going to help apply for Hazel Monday 27th January 2020 @ 7.30pm. trees to fence alongside the allotments. c. Sustainable Abbotskerswell – Next meeting 2019 PARISH COUNCILLORS AND CONTACT POINTS

Monday 19th January – this will be advertised in (Vice Chairman) Cllr P Marino AbbTalk and Facebook. Mr V Stunt confirmed 31 Wilton Way, Abbotskerswell, TQ12 5PG they are looking at getting together a Repair 01626 353889 or [email protected] District Cllr Mrs M Colclough Café which offers are slowly coming in for. 1 Borthay Orchard, Abbotskerswell d) Transport and Accessibility 01626 367176 or [email protected] a) Emergency Planning Committee report. Cllr C Cllr P Marino (Chair—Planning) Ward reported meeting in October when [email protected] flooding was discussed. Village drains are full of (Chairperson) Mrs W Grierson Abbotsford, Slade Lane, Abbotskerswell silt and need clearing by the DCC gulley sucker 01626 353701 or [email protected] when next in the area. Grit bin top of Odle hill Cllr Mrs Liz Clowes needs refilling, Grit Bin in Manor Road empty Mote Cottage, Slade Lane, Abbotskerswell and now put on DCC system for refilling. 01626 332092 or [email protected] b) P3 Report – nothing to report. Cllr Mrs Ann Allen Tree Tops, 1 Forde Close, Abbotskerswell, TQ12 5NN c) DCC, Highways, Potholes, Roads & Hedges. 01626 330965 or [email protected] e) Economy and Employment Cllr C Ward f) Community, Facilities and Assets 15 Laburnum Terrace, Abbotskerswell, TQ12 5PT a. Abbotskerswell Recreation Association report – 07813030661 or [email protected] no meeting held, grant application has been sent Cllr Mrs Amy Walkden to Abbfest for phase 2 of the playpark. 2 Berry Close, Abbotskerswell TQ12 5PH 07787 135409 or [email protected] b. Village Hall Report – Cllr P Marino reported – County Cllr Alistair Dewhirst AGM held last week when accounts were Waterside, Dornafield Road, , TQ12 5SG agreed, new kitchen Viridor grant to be applied Clerk: Sharon Raggett for early next year. 34 Balland Park, Ashburton TQ13 7BE c. Consultations. 01364 654607 or [email protected] d. Communications Committee Report – send out list of meeting dates 2020 again. g) Reports from Parish Councillors of any external

24 www.abbotskerswell.org.uk

Davis Lindley Mullan + Mutter & Clive Abbotskerswell Village Hall th Saturday 9 May 2020 Tickets £12.50 from Mike Webb. 01626 363640 [email protected] Doors open 7.00pm Licensed Bar D J Dave DLM are Andrew Cresswell Davis guitar, ukelele and vocals, Clare Lindley violin, guitar, ukelele and vocals and Brian Mullan cello and vocals. They employ a number of styles in their repertoire reflecting a desire to entertain audiences of all ages and musical tastes. A typical DLM set list will contain original material and a few carefully chosen covers. Mutter Slater accompanied by Clive Ashley on saxophone will be offering RnB. Andy, Clare & Mutter are ex members of Stackridge and Andy was also a Korgi.

www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 25

Abbotskerswell Pre-School The Village Hall, Abbotskerswell TQ12 5YF Monday, Thursday and Friday 9am–1pm Tuesday and Wednesday 9am–3pm For all children from the age of two

If you are looking for a place for your child please get in touch, children can start with us from the age of two. Some children are eligible for funding at two years old. There is a universal 15 hours of funding for all children from the term after their third birthday and some families can receive 30 hours of funded childcare. Please visit www.childcarechoices.co.uk to find out what you are entitled to. We like to get outside every day, the weather has been against us for a while now, but we’ve managed the best we can! Hopefully the weather will improve soon, although were still holding out for a bit of snow! ☺

E: [email protected] T: 07986519495 W: abbotskerswellpreschool.org

Abbotskerswell Primary School PTFA

What a lucky PTFA we are! There is so much local support for the School and PTFA that enables our events to run and funds to come in.

In the last couple of months we have run another quiz night (which was great fun!), fed hungry spectators at bonfire night, applied for an Abbfest grant (made possible by bands of willing volunteers) and enabled children to buy secret presents for their family (which they adore), to name just a few. Whether you have bought a tea-towel, or baked a cake or stood in a field – thank you!

3 donations do however need a special note. Firstly Abbfest, which has enabled the school to replace the large screen in the main hall. For those attending the next quiz – we are hoping to demonstrate its capabilities… Secondly to Barclays, who have once again supported us through their employee charity scheme, and together with Teign Heartbeat have enabled the school to purchase a defibrillator, to guard against the worst ever happening.

We are looking forward to continuing to help support the school and community in 2020!

PTFA United, devoted, for our children 26 www.abbotskerswell.org.uk

VILLAGE HALL OPEN DAY PROGRAMME

Main Hall:

10.00 Viv Cullen Pilates 10.45 Badminton 11.30 Rebecca Rees Posture Perfect 12.15 Chordettes Workshop 13.15 Alicia Price Zumba 14.00 Short Mat Bowls

Small Hall:

Pre School Refreshments

Plus:  Plans for Project Heat extension will be on display  Garden and Craft Show Display

Sustainable Abbotskerswell

Our most recent meeting was held on 19th January where we discussed: • The process of setting up a local ‘repair shed’ and how we could help with the project • Sharing the various skills and interests that the members of the group have • Conducting village litter picks twice a year • How we could plan a ‘clothes swap’ event in the future • Future article ideas for AbbTalk • The mini 'Wildflower Meadow’ on Manor Road • The Community Orchard – enhancing and improving the area • Having a ‘Hedgehog Champion’ in the village If you are interested in any of the above matters, please keep an eye out for announcements relating to them via our Facebook group ’Sustainable Abbotskerswell’ or in the pages of AbbTalk.

Our next meeting is to be held on: Sunday 7th March at 7pm

If you have any questions, ideas to share or would like to come along to the next meeting then please contact Amy Walkden on: [email protected] or 07787 135409 – for the location of the next meeting please contact me. Everyone is very welcome.

We are on the lookout for a bench that would be suitable to have at the Orchard alongside the new trees. If anyone has something suitable they no longer need and would kindly like to donate – we would be very grateful!

www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 27

Abbotskerswell Short Mat Bowls Club Club Nights are Monday & Thursday 7pm til 9.15 at the Village Hall Abbotskerswell

Hi everybody, hope you all had a great Christmas and a Happy New year. The bowling club had its Christmas Dinner Night at the Court Farm Inn. A great time was had by all, with superb food followed by the Abbotskerswell Singers who gave us a great Christmas carol sing song. Abbotskerswell Short Mat Club would like to thank Garry Kendall and the singers. Our members enjoyed the carols and the lovely community spirit that was generated, with several members joining in the singing. No charity collection was made on the night, so a collection was made at our Christmas fun night just before Christmas. The club is happy to report a collection of £100 was made and donated to the Devon Air Ambulance Trust. With a new league season underway we got off to good start winning away at Kingsteignton and . New player Neal Osborn playing his first league game for us had a wonderful game against Kingsteignton and received the player of the match award. Gabrielle Webber also had a good game when we played at Buckfast and received the player of the match for her outstanding play. Everybody played well in both games and I was very pleased with the outcome. Pictured below, money donated to Devon Air Ambulance, winners of target bowls at our Christmas party fun night and our Members Neal and Gabrielle receiving their player awards from our Chairman Leo Gibbs.

Abbotskerswell Short Mat Bowling club are still looking for new players to join us. Please bring along the family young and old, beginners or experienced, its a great chance to meet new friends and try out this wonderful game. Have a cup of tea or Coffee with biscuits and cake provided. We will also be attending the Village Hall Open Day on Saturday 15th February so come along and see us there. For more details please ring or just turn up on the night. Ray on 01803 875496 or Mark on 07759472873 anytime.

ABBOTSKERSWELL VILLAGE NOTICEBOARDS

The Parish Council are currently looking at renewal of the noticeboards within the village. There are 5 of these and all are in poor condition.

We would like to know who else uses these to advertise their events, apart from the Parish Council, as we may reduce the number to 3 if people are perhaps just looking at the board at the roundabout which is in the centre of the village.

We would appreciate your feedback.

Please email: [email protected]

28 www.abbotskerswell.org.uk

Does your Pet Insurance really cover you?

6 Devastating Facts You Need To Know Before Getting Pet Insurance (Fact #3 will save you hundreds of pounds!)

Long awaited information finally revealed by frustrated vet who had enough of his customers getting misled by pet insurance they did not understand resulting in unexpected costs.

Inside our guide, you will find mind blowing, revealing, almost shocking and sneaky facts about pet insurance. More importantly, you will receive the knowledge how to avoid these traps and be certain that you understand exactly what you have bought into when you invest in your pet’s insurance.

Find out...

How a company can claim vet fees cover up to £2000 but only pay out £1200 legally (and the pet owner has to pay the rest!).

How a fully insured life time policy has cost the pet owner £1500 over 2 years!

How a pet owner has to pay £1922.36 when the claim is less than £3000 despite having ‘vet cover’ up to £7000 in the pet insurance policy!

All these pet owners have two things in common.

1. They felt they obtained peace of mind when getting their pet insurance. 2. They did not think they would be in those situations described above.

What about you?

We are also offering a bonus FREE consultation on pet insurance to destroy any jargon used so you can be absolutely sure what are you paying for.

To receive a copy of our FREE guide and to book your consultation contact

Amity Veterinary Care Call 01626 247888 or email [email protected]

Can you seriously afford NOT to know this?

www.abbotskerswell.org.uk 29

Advertising feature

Investing your ISA allowance early in the tax year can prove rewarding over the long term

The traditional last-minute dash again saw UK savers rush to beat the tax year-end deadline to invest their ISA allowance in 2019, and having done so, many will do the same thing as April approaches.

Human nature dictates that we are often only prompted to act when faced with a deadline, particularly when it’s a ‘use it or lose it’ opportunity such as the annual ISA allowance. But there are many reasons why it makes sense to invest in an ISA earlier in the tax year instead.

Perhaps most obvious is the peace of mind that comes from getting ahead with your ISA planning and avoiding any end-of-year panic. It also makes things simpler, as you don’t need to worry about any more tax returns for your investments once they’re held inside an ISA.

However, what’s most important is to remember that investing is a long-term game; the longer you leave your money invested, the greater the chance of achieving better returns. Investing your ISA allowance at the start of the tax year gives your money the opportunity to grow for up to an extra 12 months.

Of course, you are not guaranteed to do better by investing earlier, but by doing so you can get your money working harder for longer in two ways.

The sooner you use your ISA allowance, the greater the potential tax benefit because your investment is sheltered from Capital Gains Tax and Income Tax for longer.

Similarly, your investment has more chance to benefit from compound interest – what Albert Einstein reportedly referred to as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. Over the long term, the opportunity to make gains on the gains you have already made can make a big difference to your future wealth.

Taking steps to minimise the impact of tax on your wealth should be a year-round activity, not something that we only think about in the last few weeks of the tax year. Whether through investing a lump sum or by setting up regular savings, making an early start with your ISA plans is one way to shelter more ofyour money from HMRC.

Hedgelands Financial Services Ltd., is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

30 www.abbotskerswell.org.uk

AK SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT 2019

The focus of the 2019 Christmas concert was the community. The choir sang some carols either that were either not well known or with variations to the normal tune.

To get everyone in the festive spirit the audience participated in singing some of the well-known carols and afterwards there were mince pies and mulled wine in Church House.

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ORGANISATIONS IN ABBOTSKERSWELL USEFUL TIMES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS Abbotskerswell Twinning Association Hospital Visiting and Opening Times: Twinned with Le Pre d' Auge & Les Monceaux in Normandy. Visit and TORBAY: 01803 614567 / Visiting usually 14:00–16:30 & 18:30–20:00 host twinning friends' alternate years. Members meet for a Social evening and supper. Middle of each month usually in Church House. Some wards may vary. Please check here: Contact: 01626 356877 or 332092 http://www.sdhct.nhs.uk/patientcare/wards/visitingtimes or phone: 0300 456 8000 (local rate) or 01803 614567 Ladies Badminton Session NEWTON ABBOT: Phone 01626 324500 Tuesday evenings 8.00–9.30pm Village Hall. Contact Marilyn Whitefoot 01626 361275 Minor Injuries Unit: 08:00 am–08:00 pm, every day AbbPast CHIP VAN Outside Central@Model Stores – Mon 4.30pm–6pm Church House at 7.30pm on the second Monday of every month. Speakers on historical topics both local and further afield. Contact: Central @ MODEL STORES—SHOP & POST OFFICE Pete Wade 01626 366032 Tel: 01626 333387 Church House Open 7 days a week 7am–8pm Hall and full kitchen facilities with central heating and flexible lighting Mobile Library Van 2020 (Monday unless stated) available to book. Also see under www.abbotskerswellchurch.org.uk The Priory: 10.10–10.30 Contact: Mik Wordsworth 01626 352279 AK Village Centre: 10.35–11.15 Abbotskerswell Bellringers Abbotshill car park: 11.25–11.45 We are a small friendly group meeting on Thursday evenings from 7pm– Feb 24 / Mar 23 / Apr 20 / May 28 / Jun 18 / Jul 13 / Aug 10 / 8pm. We would love to welcome some new members. You do not have to be Sep 7 / Oct 4 / Nov 2 (Note new times for 2020) musical – just be able to count to six! Contact Liz Smyth-Osbourne on 368400 or Bins – 7.00am Wednesdays just come along to the church on Thursday evening. (recycling boxes will be collected by different vehicles) Abbotskerswell Singers Any queries ring Teignbridge Services 01626 361101 or The choir meets for rehearsals at Church House every Wednesday from www.teignbridge.gov.uk 7:30–9:00pm. Anyone over the age of 16yrs who is interested in the possibility of joining is welcome to come along preferably after contacting To save confusion on Bin Day mark your bins and boxes with your house the Chairman or Musical Director. Main concerts are at Christmas and name/number to ensure they are returned to you late May/early June. Contact: Nicola Smith 01626 332258 British Telecom Faults 151 Abbotskerswell Netball Club Electricity Western Power 08456 012989 Training every Monday 7.15–8.45pm Abbotskerswell Recreation Area Gas 0800 317960 court – £1 a session. Contact: Jen Henwood 01626 364080 Water 0800 378937 Abbotskerswell Cricket Club Street Lighting 0800 1976763 Players of all ages and abilities welcome. We run 2 Devon League sides Teignbridge Council 01626 361101 on Saturdays, a Sunday league side and also play friendly sides, with Clerk to Parish Council 01364 644109 training on Tuesday nights from April. Colts coaching for boys and girls Parish Tree Warden 07787 135409 from 6 upwards takes place on Friday nights from 6:00pm. Colts teams Dog Warden 01626 215881 from Under 10 to Under 17 play in local leagues. Contact Paul Mitchell Crimestoppers 0800 555111 07778-017326 or Richard Codd 07774 658464 for details. Samaritans 116 123 South Devon Model Railway Society Torbay Hospital 01803 614567 Meet every Thursday from 7:30pm upstairs at Church House. We Newton Abbot Hospital 01626 324500 have working layouts in OO and N scale where members can run RSPCA 0300 1234 999 their own models. Refreshments available. Contact Dave Peters on Devon Bus Enquiry Line 01392 382800 07952 662705 Country Bus Enquiry Line 01626 833664 Emergency Planning Group National Express Coach 08705 808080 Rail Information 08457 484950 Flood Warden for the village – to be appointed. Should you require any help in the meantime, or sandbags to protect your property, then please Northcott Theatre, Exeter 01392 493493 contact Craig Ward: 07813 030661 or [email protected] Theatre Royal, 01752 267222 English Riviera Centre 01803 299992 Abbotskerswell Allotment Association Alexandra Cinema 08712 303200 Contact: Margaret Crompton on: 01626 367964 NA Leisure Centre 01626 215640 Abbotskerswell Short Mat Bowls Club Brownies, Maggie Lambourn 01803 812717 Monday and Thursday 7.15–9.30pm Abbotskerswell Village Hall Locksmith 01626 211153 Contact: Ray Vyse 01803 875496 Kevin Farrelly 01626 354956 (Chairman of Emergency Planning Committee) Abbotskerswell Ladies Group 1st Monday of the month 8.00pm in the Parish Rooms. Contact Citizens Advice Line 03444 111 444 Sylvia Hallett on 01626 365411 (Open – Mon Tues Weds Fri 9.30am–3.00pm) Abbotskerswell Knit & Natter Group SCHOOLS Meet alternate Mondays in the Parish Rooms. Contact: Ann Allen on: Primary School, Abbotskerswell 01626 353605 01626 330965 Coombeshead College 01626 201800 Newton Abbot College 01626 367335

Torquay Boys’ Grammar School 01803 615501 Parish Rooms—Free WiFi available Girls’ Grammar School 01803 613215 To book the rooms please contact Lynn Howard on 351564. St Cuthbert Mayne School 01803 328725

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