Silverleigh PARISHES MAGAZINE

February 2021 40p 1 Annual subscription £4

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Contact details of magazine team is shown towards the back Deadline for the March 2021 edition is Sunday 21 February Please send material for inclusion to the editor at [email protected] The magazine will be distributed for Sunday 7 March

Paying subscriptions: By cash or cheque (payable to ‘St Mary’s Church, Silverton’) to either your distributor or Mike Shipton 01392 860917. Please make sure you say who you are and what you’re paying for. By BACS NatWest Tiverton, sort code 602127, Account No 54577993 Code: mag sub/year of sub/your name

From the Editor I would like to thank Marion Cann of the Exe Valley Farm Shop for her photo on the front cover and I must say the shop is now really looking good with the new additions.

My thanks to almost all of our advertisers who have renewed for 2021, it is a good source of local businesses and I know valued by residents.

An electronic version this month, hopefully not for too many more months.

Where to go and what to do 4 From the Churches 17 In and around the villages 25 Health and Wellbeing 30 Index of Advertisers 50 Useful phone numbers 51

The Official Zager and Evans Fan Club (Silverton Branch) Stands Down!

An enormous thank you to all those really nice people, who donated clothing to St Petrock's in the above appeal. Bless you for your kindness and generosity. My spare room and now my attic are bursting! St Petock's have asked me now to draw a line and so I will not be collecting any more. They are now full up and anxious to respect Lockdown restrictions.

I have already made one visit with some donations and will make another, as soon as visiting is allowed. There will be some donations still left after that and I have arranged with St Petrock's that I will make more trips to their premises over the next few months, when space allows. Not a single donation will be wasted! Do go to their website and find out more about what they do and how you can contribute further to their work, if you so wish. The Centre exists to help and support the homeless and those sleeping rough in Exeter and the surrounding area.

It is 25 years since St Petrock's was started and you all entered into the spirit of the Zager and Evans hit from 1969, In the Year 2525. Supporters of the Centre were asked to think of fundraising activities with the notion of 25. Silverton entered into my obviously absurd notion of an official Z and E Fan Club that was dedicated to donating clothing (some of you also donated food). They remain the singers of the only song that has been number one in the UK and US and a lot of other places, but they never had another chart entry. They are the gold standard one hit wonders - nobody has equalled their record.

Thanks to everybody who entered into the fun of an absurd fundraising idea. I just felt we needed something to get over the gloom of Lockdown and winter months are particularly bad for people sleeping rough. Thanks to St Mary's, who allowed the use of the Church as a collecting area. Once again, thanks to all who gave so generously. Far more than I thought would happen. I should not have underestimated what a nice village Silverton is. Bless you - you are a great lot.

John Kirkaldy P.S. Several of you claimed to have gone on the internet and listened to the song! 4

Homeless and Soup Kitchens

I wish to thank everybody who donated to the homeless and soup kitchens in 2020. We received 30 sleeping bags, amazing amount of food and clothing each month, £550.00 money donated in 2020. Money was distributed amongst all of the seven evening soup kitchens and Exeter Food Action relies on food donations, donations and volunteers. Exeter Food Action distributes food with a recipe to needy families and supplies food to schools, homeless and foodbank etc.

Every year we have a Hog Roast for the homeless on the Wednesday before Christmas, which is normally held in the annex side of The Cathedral. Last December it was held on Wednesday 23rd December because of Covid we were allowed to have the Hog Roast outside the annex of The Cathedral only. It was a terrible evening distributing hot food with the heavy winds and rain. It was one of the worst evenings I’ve known in 20 years but again the generosity of people donating was amazing - 15 sleeping bags, big trays of cakes and beautiful homemade Christmas cake, mince pies and £400.00. Thank you to everybody who donated so generously.

Sadly, because of Covid it’s all gone back to how it was 15 years ago when I took over as chair of Homeless and Soup Kitchens, serving food out of the back of a trailer in the centre of Exeter. This is also making extra costs for evening soup kitchens as they are having to purchase takeaway containers for the food and small bottles of coke/drinks, and other than food they are limited on what they can hand out other than sleeping bags, because limited space in cars.

Unfortunately, most people sleeping rough were brought in because numbers have been rising steadily and there was not enough beds for everybody. Sadly, we do still have some people sleeping out, that’s why I am still requesting sleeping bags, socks, gloves, scarves and fleece hats, shampoos, shower gel, cakes and donations so they can buy take away containers for hot food and drink, sleeping bags and certain foods.

We do not want clothing as the evening soup kitchens have limited storage, by now all the storage facility is full also Wednesday evening soup kitchen,

normally held in the annex of the Cathedral, I have been advised that the Cathedral have taken away all the storage for the Wednesday evening soup kitchen, they now have now no storage other than in people’s houses.

There are seven evening soup kitchens, who are all charities, serving good hot food seven nights a week. We have been doing it for around 20 years, same day, same time, 52 weeks of the year, but because of Covid they are having to serve hot food and drinks outside come rain or sunshine. They are run by volunteers, who rely on donations. Soup kitchens are where the homeless get good hot food, clean clothing, etc, and getting advice, somebody to talk to, soup kitchens are important for the welfare of the homeless.

St Petrock’s are not letting any of the clients into their premises because of Covid therefore they are not handing out clothing etc but taking food down to The Great Western Hotel at the bottom of St David’s Hill where the homeless have been taken in. These thirteen charities have been operating a long time and are totally reliant on donations and volunteers: Free Food Directory: 7 charities, giving either food, meals or food parcels Free Food in Lockdown: 6 charities giving either free food or food parcels

If you need further information please don’t hesitate to contact me. John Barrett Co-ordinator 07967681699 [email protected]

St Mary’s Silverton Flower Club

We are a month into 2021 and we find ourselves in Lockdown again, but as bad as things are, we are all optimistic that the vaccine (which some of us will already have received) will protect us during the coming months. Spring is just around the corner bursting with Crocuses, Daffodils, Primroses and Tulips which will help to lift our spirits.

Being optimistic, we will hope to be able to resume Flower Club meetings sometime during the latter half of the year. Continue to keep safe. Julie Knowles For any further information about Silverton Flower Club contact Sally Sleep on 860678 or sallysleep1@hotmail,co.uk 6

Silverton & Exe Valley Seniors Information

February is the month when, in normal times, we have our AGM with the first coach outing of the year taking place in March, by which time our Coffee Morning and Monday Whist activities will have been ongoing since the beginning of the year. This year, however, things are different from the word ‘go’ because of the Government’s Coronavirus restrictions which have been tightened and carried over from 2020. Under current rules, gatherings in public places (indoor and outdoor) are not, with some exceptions, permitted meaning that our AGM will have to be deferred until later in the year. For the same reasons, coffee mornings, coach outings and whist are regrettably ‘on hold’ for the time being.

Given the local and mass vaccinations programme is now under way for people in our age group, there is now perhaps, a chink of “light at the end of the tunnel” which might enable some Club activities to resume later in the year. As arrangements for coach outings need to be made some months in advance, it has been necessary for your Secretary to polish his crystal ball and hazard a guess – based on the current government predictions - when this might be possible. Ultimately this will of course depend upon the reduction of Covid-19 infection rates and hopefully with it, a restoration of confidence to use public transport.

As an earlier resumption of activities seems (in late January as I write this) unlikely, our monthly coach outings programme will commence in June, beginning with a visit to Bideford and Hartland Abbey in North Devon on 02 June. It may be that that some restrictions (such as social distancing and the wearing of face masks) will still be in place limiting the number of seats which can be occupied on Blakes fleet of coaches from 53 to between 24-28.

Hopefully, however, by June, the vaccination programme together with other measures will have started to impact on the current high infection levels enabling the Government to progressively relax some of the travel and other restrictions during the remainder of the year. Any reduction in the number of saleable seats does however mean that each available seat will cost more. Although Blakes coach prices have been held at 2020 levels, outing prices therefore have had to rise reflecting anticipated lower average seat occupancy than has been achieved in the recent past. This does of course mean that with fewer available seats early bookers are best placed to bag one of these! There is a degree of financial risk for the Club in committing to an outings programme which is dependent on members support but the alternative of waiting until all restrictions have been relaxed before trying to book coach and venues might well result in no programme for a further year bringing into doubt the continued existence of the Club.

The list for 2021 destinations contains venues and places many of which were featured in last year’s programme (but which due to the coronavirus were unable to take place) and which I hope you will find to be of interest. I have unfortunately not been able to include one or two venues where, by virtue of combining the venue entry charge and higher coach cost the outing price was considered too expensive.

Members will be advised in the next SEVS newsletter of full programme details and prices. In the meantime these are summarised below.

June Bideford and Hartland Abbey July Canal Cruise Exeter Quay to Exmouth August Britannia Royal Naval College & Dartmouth September Port Isaac & Boscastle October Tavistock (Market) & Plymouth November Gloucester Quays Christmas Market December Traditional Christmas Lunch at the Waie Inn

Members will be able to book for the 2021 programme from the end of March (by which time the emerging coronavirus picture of any future restrictions may be a little clearer) by means of completing a separate booking form (to be circulated with next Club newsletter) and payment by cheque (or cash) for each outing. Another difference in procedure is that a 8

coach seating plan can be prepared for each outing, you will be asked to provide names of everyone travelling. If social distancing restrictions continue, there will also be some differences in the seating arrangements. In line with Blakes’ coronavirus procedures, where seat capacity has been restricted, seats will be allocated to named individuals and it will not be possible to change places or move around during the coach journey. At the present time, the wearing of face masks is compulsory under Government rules. Blakes also currently operates a special coronavirus cleaning regime to protect all its customers and drivers. It is hoped that a combination of these measures coupled with the Covid-19 vaccination and recommended sanitising measures will be sufficient to ensure the highest level of safety for everyone on board the coach and, of course, your enjoyment of the outing.

Clearly our plans may have to be adapted in line with Government guidance. I hope however that the outings programme provides a glimpse of something members can look forward to in 2021. Anyone requiring more details of Club activities and membership should contact the Secretary. Annual membership for 2021 is £6 per person. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Silverton & Exe Valley Seniors’. Members who paid their subscriptions in 2020 (but unable to take part in Club activities), automatically will have their membership transferred to 2021. Martin Clough, Club Secretary 38 Hederman Close Silverton Devon EX5 4HW 01392 860971 [email protected] website: www.sevs.info

Silverton Community Hall

Unfortunately, there is very little to report. Work has been on going during lockdown which hopefully, will be completed once it is possible to re-open.

The Dorothy Granger Room is having a new ceiling/lighting and a new disabled friendly entrance door. The remaining acoustic boards in the Millennium Hall are also due to be done later this month.

Just a reminder, there is a disabled shower available at the hall for anyone who is disabled and hasn’t facilities at home, or for anyone needing a shower temporarily. There is also a wheelchair available for loan.

Hope everyone is keeping well and clear of the virus. Look forward to seeing you all in the not-too-distant future. Gill Barrett 9

Silverton Parish Council Report

Parish Council Meetings Parish Council meetings continue to be held virtually by Zoom. Should any parishioners wish to attend the virtual meeting they should please contact the Clerk prior to each meeting (first Monday of each month) for the appropriate log-in details.

Old Skate Ramp It is anticipated the old Skate Ramp will be infilled during March when hopefully the weather will have improved and less damage will be caused to the Recreation Field in carrying out the works

Asset Transfer of grassed areas in the village Discussions are on-going with regard to the Parish Council possibly taking over responsibility for the various grass areas in the village currently being maintained by both MDDC and DCC. Parishioners often complain about the condition of these areas and the Parish Council are looking to take over responsibility in order to be able to control as and when these areas are cut.

Initial public consultation re public telephone box Due to the success of the boxes in the Bus Shelter for the use of the community to share books and toys the Parish Council are considering applying to British Telecom to purchase the telephone box in the Square (cost £1 plus repair works required) to re-purpose for community use. Before making an application to British Telecom it was felt essential that all parishioners were given an opportunity to comment, whether in favour of the proposal or opposed. If the Parish Council were to purchase the telephone box this would then cease to be a working telephone box. British Telecom has confirmed that since August 2019 approximately 90 calls have been made from this box.

Parishioners are asked to comment on the proposal, preferably by email or post, to the Parish Clerk (email address below) by Saturday 27th February 2019. The Parish Council will be reconsidering the proposal together with all comments received at its March meeting.

Recreation Field The Parish Council would remind everyone that dogs are not permitted in the Recreation Field. Replacement signs to all entrances are being considered.

Reporting a problem The Parish Council would remind parishioners that various problems encountered can be reported direct to Devon County Council via www.devon.gov.uk/roadsandtransport/reportaproblem. This includes potholes, hazardous or fallen trees, trips hazards, broken manhole covers, overgrown vegetation, flooding, blocked drains, parking, street lights or light signs/bollards. By reporting any fault via this method you are also able to track any action taken. Sheila Woodland Parish Clerk [email protected] 01392 881832

Silverton Parish Council Budget 2021/22

During this last year many of us will have faced different and varied challenges brought about by local and national restrictions as we learn to live with Covid 19 . It has also been a time to reflect on the benefits of living in the parish of Silverton and consider some of the aspects we might like to see change.

The community spirit has been tangible as people have found different ways to support each other, and has served as a strong reminder about what can be achieved locally when people come together with a clear sense of purpose.

The Parish Council currently has ten Councillors (there is one vacancy), who work voluntarily to ensure there is a well maintained and safe environment for us to live, work and enjoy recreationally. Mid Devon District Council and the County Council have many responsibilities for our area, but notwithstanding this the Parish Council has its own local responsibilities and is ideally placed to understand local needs, and to have an impact for good across the Parish.

During the year ahead we will be focussing on four themes namely i) our natural environment, ii) our built environment, iii) traffic, travel and transport, and iv) our community spaces. These themes mirror those in the

Neighbourhood Plan, more details of this plan can be found on the Parish Council website.

This year we have set a modest budget increase of 19 pence per week, which is £10 a year for a Band D household. This budget will help maintain what we already have in place, as well as giving us a little scope for new ideas that are emerging.

We encourage you to look on our website, or read the minutes on the noticeboard next to the Little Rec to see how we arrived at this year’s budget. Anyone is always most welcome to join any of our Parish Council meetings, which are currently taking place on Zoom and there is a dedicated agenda item each time for questions from the public. If you are interested in joining us, either for a meeting or you would like to know more about becoming a Parish Councillor please contact any of the Councillors or the Parish Clerk, Sheila Woodland and we will be happy to help. Tony Melville Chair Silverton Parish Council

Silverton Christmas Tree Festival What a marvellous effort so many people made to make the village so beautiful over the month of December. Seventy addresses took part, with others joining in just for the enjoyment of lighting up the streets for Christmas. The committee received many thanks for arranging this event , but the real people to thank are you who made it such a success..

Thanks also go to those of you who made donations at the Mini Market on the 5th December. This £50 will go to the Pre School, to help with equipment. We were also pleased to receive gifts of prizes from the Spar and the Exe Valley Brewery.

The addresses receiving the most votes were and receiving prizes are first Little Pitt, Tiverton Road for their amazing display of reindeer in the snow. The three runners up were Old Church Cottage, Tiverton Road, Pembridge Cottage, Tiverton Road, and 11 Coach Road.

Finally, thanks go to Richard Osborne for his help with the ‘digital tech’ which made a tremendous difference in keeping all informed and helped the committee in the organisation of a ‘Different Christmas Tree Festival’ Now watch out for Easter and see the back page! Liz Gilbert Chair Silverton Christmas Tree Festival 12

Silverton WI

Good wishes for the New Year from us all at Silverton W.I. We hope that you all had an enjoyable Christmas, albeit a very different one for usual. How did you get on with our quizzes?

Hope that they went down well, especially the sweet one !! We had our December meeting on Zoom and a very jolly time was had by all. Anne, our secretary, organised a singalong and quiz. Which we all enjoyed. Amazing how one recognises a Christmas song, but have no idea of its provenance. The Wi took part in the Christmas Tree Festival. Our tree was decorated with an eco-friendly theme. The birds loved the fat balls some of the members made! It looked lovely on the Berry outside secretary Anne’s house. All our members received a Christmas treat - a goody bag from the Committee. It was such fun to open and enjoy what was inside! A gin and tonic, lebkuchen, chocolate muffin, jar of chutney (a bit reminiscent of The Generation Game).

Thank you all for your hard work. It was much appreciated. As we are still in lockdown we are continuing with Book Club on Zoom. To keep us going we have two books to read at the moment, Dawn French’s ‘A little bit Marvellous’ and, as we have time on our hands, Arundhati Roy’s ‘The Ministry of Utmost Happiness’. We have discussed the first, which many were not that impressed with, and the Arundhati Roy book we shall dissect in February! The Meetings also continue on Zoom, which is good, but some members are working and find they are Zooming all day and can’t face Zooming at night as well, which is a great shame, but understandable. Our thought for the month (opposite) Gill Eldridge - 861137 Avril Webster – 860583 devon.thewi.org.uk 13

Silverton Link Up Incorporated with The Friends of Wyndham House Surgery Charity No 1048253

A car service for Wyndham House Surgery patients. If you have problems going to Health Appointments including the Vaccination clinic, Link Up maybe able to help.

Please contact Roger Higman 01392 860571 or 07530741003 if no answer leave a message. There is no charge for the service, however, any donations to our charity appreciated. Coronavirus restrictions apply.

A Thriving Business Community in Devon Libraries: Business & IP Centre Devon (BIPC)

Libraries Unlimited, in partnership with the British Library and other libraries across the UK are leading a revolution by inspiring a thriving community of potential, new and existing business owners. We currently have centres in Exeter and Barnstaple libraries with a centre in Paignton library opening soon.

Whether you're just starting out, need advice on protecting your assets, or are ready to take the next step on your journey, we're here to help.

This is a difficult time for business owners, so the Business & IP Centre network has developed a dedicated programme of free talks and webinars, Reset. Restart, to support small to medium business across the country. Details of both local and national Reset. Restart events are on our website.

You can access our varied range of databases which include Kompass, British Standards Online, Local Data Online and IBISWorld, some are available remotely.

Protecting your idea is paramount when developing an invention or design. We can give you basic Intellectual Property (IP) information and signpost you to further help. Ensuring you have the right protection for your idea is easier than you think!

We also have a bank of experts in various fields and we can arrange a free one-to-one for you.

For details of how to access our databases or any other enquiries, email [email protected] To browse our event listings and resources, take a look at our website: https://bipc.librariesunlimited.org.uk/ Lisa D'Alberti Senior Supervisor: Resources and Information Barnstaple Library Libraries Unlimited is a registered charity (1170092) responsible for running Devon Libraries and Torbay Libraries. You can support us to continue delivering life changing library services, find out more here: librariesunlimited.org.uk/support-us

Silverton Local History Society

Well here we go again; another lockdown. The first started on Monday, 16th March, 2020, when Matt Hancock, the Health Secretary, told the House of Commons, that all unnecessary social contact should cease. I wrote in our previous article that “we are all hoping that the recently reported vaccines will be successful, and help bring some normality to all of our lives”. The spring last year was a saviour, especially for those of us living in Devon, as we were able to enjoy what was apparently the sunniest spring since records began in 1929, with over 626 hours of sunshine, and also the eighth warmest on record, and fifth driest. I have heard many say that those three months passed relatively quickly, but now in January 2021 it is far different, and although the NHS has started the vaccination programme, who knows when we will see a sign of normality?

I have previously written that the committee were hoping that we would be able to replicate our 2020 programme of speakers, starting in March 2021 with Silverton’s John Kirkaldy, but that now looks most unlikely. Although as I write, infection rates are reducing, some estimate that meetings like ours 15

are unlikely to commence before the summer. Consequently we are unable to make plans.

One Hundred Years Ago The Tiverton Gazette of 11th January, 1921, reported that there was a trade slump in the paper industry, and the Hele Paper Mill of Messrs Wiggins Teape & Co had been closed since a week before Christmas. The mill employed about three hundred, the majority living in Bradninch, with some from Silverton and Cullompton. The price of grades of paper made at Hele, such as high-class writing and ledger paper which in the past had been in great demand, during the war increased dramatically, virtually four hundred per cent. This was due in part to the rise in wages, and also to the greatly enhanced cost of pulp and other materials, coal and freight. Messrs Reed and Smith’s mill at Silverton, that employed some two hundred and fifty persons, managed to keep going, but on a reduced output, with one machine closed down.

The stone cross that we pass when we drive through Rewe was the subject of an article in the Devon & Somerset News of the 27th January, 1921. It was erected to remind of the sacrifice of Rewe and Netherexe during the First World War. From these two parishes with a population of only 200, nearly thirty served, and nine perished. An ancient cross was restored with an entirely new shaft and a new underbase, but the original granite base was retained. A fund to cover the cost of £110 received contributions from Viscount Hambleden, Colonel R Hill of Bickleigh and Netherexe, and Mr F D Acland M.P. of Killerton.

During his address, after unveiling the cross, Viscount Hambleden of North Bovey (who at one time owned a great deal of land in the parishes) remarked: “It is said that the world is full of shadows, but sunshine makes them all, and surely at the back of the dark shadows which fell upon this country, and more especially among those who lost their dearest, there shines the bright light of the example which these men have left behind them”. Relatives of the fallen placed wreaths around the cross.

Graham Parnell 01392 860595 [email protected]

Churches Silverton (01392) Churchwardens Dr Peter Smith, 36 High Street EX5 4JD, 860284, [email protected] Joan Miller, 33 High Street EX5 4JD, 860897 PCC Hon Secretary Dr Michael Thomas, 5 Tuns Lane EX5 4HY, 860464, [email protected] PCC Hon Treasurer Mr A W Hall Charlton Mead EX5 4DE (01392) 881339 [email protected] Sacristan Dianne Wannell, 16 King Street, 860387 Choir Leader Avril Webster, Old Orchard, Church Road, 860583 Captain of Ringers Mr A J Campbell, 11 Silverdale, 860541 Hall bookings Paul Webster, Old Orchard, Church Road, 860583

Bickleigh (01884) Churchwardens Mrs Polly Thompson of Gable Cottage, Bickleigh 855309 Matt Melksham, 6 Bell Park, Bickleigh, EX16 8RE 855355 PCC Hon Secretary Rachel Harper of 3, Bell Meadow, Bickleigh EX16 8RF 855648 PCC Hon Treasurer Malcolm Lock, 2 Colliepriest View, Ashley Rise, Tiverton EX16 5PR, 242489 Sacristan Mary Vearncombe Capt of Bellringers Steve Batt, School House, 855226, [email protected] Sunday Youth Group Polly and Rev’d Thom Thompson

Butterleigh (01884) Churchwardens Jill Hall, Shutelake Farm EX15 1PR, 38812 Sarah Felton, Underleigh House EX15 1PJ, 855586 PCC Hon Secretary Linda Freeman, 3 Forge Lane EX15 1QG, 855446 PCC Hon Treasurer John Freeman, 3 Forge Lane EX15 1QG, 855446, [email protected] Sacristan Jill Neusinger, Offshute, EX15 1PR 33205

Cadeleigh (01884) Churchwardens; Rose Chanin, Stone Farm, Thorverton EX5 5LL 855251 [email protected] Margaret Reed, The Laurels, Cadeleigh EX16 8HP 855668 PCC Hon Secretary Judith Kingdon [email protected] PCC Hon Treasurer Martin Callaghan [email protected] Captain of Ringers Alec Alsopp, Honey Croft, EX16 8HW, 855434 Organist James Kingdon, 01392 861787 Choir Director Maureen Joslin, Hilldale, 855231

Silverton Evangelical Church School Road EX5 4JH. A short walk from the shops on the right before the mini roundabout Here’s a brief resume of our term-time weekly activities. Do come and join us! Sunday services, 10.30 am Toddlers Fridays, 10.00-11.30 am (every week in term time) Prayer meetings 2nd Saturday of the month, 8.30 am and every Thursday at 7.15 am

Silverton Methodist Church Fore Street, Silverton, EX5 4HZ Loop system – switch hearing aid to T. Copyright Licence 217490. Charity No. 2007 2655 Sunday Worship: 10.30, coffee, chat, etc. Worship also at 6.30 Prayer Meeting every Tuesday at 2.30pm Minister: Revd. Dr. Brenda Mosedale. www.silvertonmethodist.church. Rooms available for hire; supporting Book Aid, Work Aid, Hospiscare (old/used stamps). Surplus spectacles. General enquiries, firstly try 01392 860483 18

Clergy Contacts

Rector for Silverton, Butterleigh, Bickleigh and Cadeleigh The Rev’d Paul Kingdom, The Rectory, 21a King Street, Silverton EX5 4JG. 01392 860560, 07803 922605, [email protected] Other clergy assisting in the Benefice The Rev’d Judith Wright, 4 Hele Square, Station Road, Bradninch EX5 4PN, 01392 882019, [email protected] The Rev’d Thom Thompson, Gable Cottage, Bickleigh EX16 8RD, 01884 855309, [email protected] Church webpages – for further information please visit our church webpages at www.achurchnearyou.com . Type in your postcode or village to get to the appropriate page. Mission Community Administrator Maggie Smith Contact one of the clergy directly concerning any pastoral or spiritual matter, but for all other matters including such things as church bookings, weddings, funerals, contact Maggie 07380 247766 [email protected]

Letter from the Rector

Dear Friends

I was sat at my desk recently on a particularly gloomy day when nothing seemed to be going right. I picked up my black bound notebook and it opened on the first page. Suddenly my day brightened for there I saw a little sticker of Father Christmas. I was immediately taken back several years to the parish where I served my curacy - to the local school and a Christmas lunch with all the school.

I remember the event clearly. As I was walking around chatting I noticed on one of the tables all the children were getting ready to pull their crackers. They were about to form a ring with their hands and crackers – ready for the big pull and bang. One little boy saw me approaching, and without a sound held out the end of a cracker towards me – inviting me to pull. We did and he won the business end of the cracker. He delved inside, picking out a hat, a

joke, and a sticker of Father Christmas. He beckoned me closer and without a word placed the sticker on my jacket. The sticker I later transferred to my notebook.

It was a simple act, done without fuss or words. But what he was really doing was inviting me into his circle of friends, he wanted me to feel included, be part of it – no longer the vicar who comes in to take assemblies but a friend. It was a memory that helped to warm a chilly late January day with a smile. And it reminded me how often small and what might appear insignificant acts, often coming from the unexpected, can give us a glimpse of the kindness and love that enriches and makes this world a better place. Bringing a little glimpse of ‘light’ into what maybe ‘dark’ times.

Harold Macmillan, the Prime Minister from 1957 to 1963, was once asked by a journalist what was the most challenging part of his job as leader. His reply was: “Events, dear boy, events”. Well that has certainly proved the case since I moved here to take up the post of rector last March. All of our lives have been knocked unexpectedly sideways. As we continue in the third lockdown, with no sign of anything approaching normality, even with the rolling out of vaccines, we can still feel fearful, frightened and isolated. The darkness of the event can so easily encircle and enclose us.

Just then the beacons, or possibly only pinpricks, of ‘light’ come to us in the response of those around - friends, neighbours and our communities – and indeed ourselves.

We have witnessed so much light shining into the darkness of this last year - in the response of communities in helping each other and the most vulnerable. The dedication and resourcefulness of NHS and care staff, especially over recent weeks and months when they have been stretched to the limits and beyond.

As we emerge from lockdown to a time we can hopefully live with the virus in a controlled way, we need to ensure that what defines us is not the pandemic but the response to the pandemic. We need to be defined not by the darkness but by the light.

A response that is that ‘light’ may be so difficult on the hard and rocky journey that has been and will no doubt continue to be our earthly life. But we are never alone on that journey. Jesus Christ, the light of the world, weeps with us, works for our healing, and invites us to walk in his light. He is right there with us, in the midst of everything. And we can see Him in the most unexpected ways – even in the gift of a sticker from a small boy. Paul

Worship and Prayer - A Message from the Rector

Under the current lockdown rules, churches are permitted to remain open for worship and private prayer. Please see the Parish Churches’ Calendar below for the details of services we are offering. This may change and so you should check with the notice boards, newsletter or the website www.achurchnearyou.com (searching for your parish). Alternatively Contact me or the parish administrator Maggie Smith on 07380 247766 or [email protected] )

If you are unable to join our ‘virtual’ worship ‘live’, it is available on the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI5Ulh3MZTAcTNzpV9h08bA or search ‘Paul Kingdom’ on You Tube. The order of service and hymns can be downloaded from our web pages – see above. The YouTube channel also contains short ‘Daily Prayers’ posted on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Lent: Lent begins on Wednesday 17th March (Ash Wednesday). We will have a special service for this day on Zoom at 6pm that evening. Also keep an eye on noticeboards, the newsletter and website for Lent courses that will be available.

Our church buildings remain open every day for private prayer. Everyone is welcome but please observe the notices and instructions to keep us all safe. Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals Please contact me for further details. The Weekly Newsletter can be emailed or posted to you – please contact our administrator Maggie Smith on 07380 247766 or [email protected] ) The Revd. Paul Kingdom, Rector 01392 860560 [email protected] 21

Readings for Sundays

Sunday 7th February (Second Sunday before Lent) Proverbs 8 v1, 22-31 Colossians 1 v15-20 John 1 v1-14 Sunday 14th February (Sunday next before Lent) 2 Kings 2 v1-12 2 Corinthians 4 v3-6 Mark 9 v2-9 Sunday 21st February (First Sunday of Lent) Genesis 9 v8-17 1 Peter 3 v18-end Mark 1 v9-15 Sunday 28th February (Second Sunday of Lent) Genesis 17 v1-7 and 15-16 Romans 4 v13-end Mark 8 v31-end Sunday 7th March (Third Sunday of Lent) Exodus 20 v1-17 1 Corinthians 1 v18-25 John 2 v13-22

Parish Churches’ Calendar

In the light of the increase in the rate of the Covid-19 infection and the recent national lockdown, worship in the benefice will take place each Sunday until further notice as follows:

9.30 am, St. Mary’s, Silverton: A Service of Holy Communion (CW) Please note that it will be obligatory for congregations to wear face coverings unless there are medical reasons for not doing so. Strict social distancing will be observed.

11.00 am, by Zoom: Morning Praise. If you are unable to join us at 11.00 am, the service will be recorded and available from lunchtime on Sunday on YouTube (see below). The Zoom joining instructions: Meeting name: ‘Worship’ 22

The internet link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81275250857?pwd=RVdYL0tPMTJoWWk4bHd RMTdNRFVGdz09 By phone: You can join in the worship by phone by dialling any one of the following numbers: 0203 481 5237 0203 481 5240 0131 460 1196 0203 051 2874 Meeting ID: 812 7525 0857 Password: 658809

On YouTube, at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI5Ulh3MZTAcTNzpV9h08bA or search ‘Paul Kingdom’.

Any changes will be advertised in the weekly Churches’ Newsletter or on the notice boards.

From the Parish Registers: Funerals Silverton 11 January Jack Rosser Butterleigh 19 December Ann Smith

Jack Rosser

Jack Rosser passed away peacefully at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital on 18th December 2020 after a short illness he was 99 years old. Jack was born in King Street (Back Lane) Silverton on 15 December 1921 and was the eldest born and bred Silvertonian when he passed away.

Jack was the last surviving player of the Silverton Football Team 1949/50 which never lost a game for a whole year. The team won the Hospital Cup, Challenge Cup, Devon Junior Cup, Division One League Shield and the Waldron Cup. In one of the games played by the team in Somerset – Jack, who was the striker, scored a 'hat trick' the headlines in the local paper read 'rosser a sign of brilliance'.

I would like to thank everyone who rang, sent messages and cards on the passing of my much loved dad. Gail

Silverton Evangelical Church

What a strange, challenging and tiring past twelve months we've had. Whilst there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon as the vaccine is rolled out, we know the next few months are going to be particularly tough for many people. As a church we have desperately missed meeting together, sharing meals together, offering hospitality in our homes and all the many things we are so used to doing. We have found new ways of connecting with people - but appreciate no alternative is the same as meeting together in person.

We have been meeting back in the building since September in our new "covid secure" way. Although churches are allowed to gather during this third lockdown we made the difficult decision to suspend meeting in person, for now - but will review this regularly and hope to start services in the building again as soon as it feels right to do so.

For now, we meet on a Sunday morning virtually. Most people choose to watch our online service at 10:30am on a Sunday morning and then join us for Coffee Time on Zoom at 11:30am. Details of our services and our church online are on our website and past services are all available on our youtube channel. www.silvertonevangelicalchurch.org.uk Our website is updated regularly and the best best place to look to find out what we're doing. We also have weekly small groups and prayer meetings that meet on Zoom.

As a church we exist for the benefit of our wider community. If you are feeling fed up, if you would like someone to talk to or someone to go for a walk with, or if you have issues you are struggling with and would like some help - whether practical or spiritual - please do get in touch with us. We have a new care support team to help our community and our church family through this difficult time. We would love to hear from you. Andy Mathers Church leader and community worker [email protected] 01392 861340 www.silvertonevangelicalchurch.org.uk

Jim Massey

Lieutenant Colonel Jim Massey of Fore St. Silverton, died peacefully on January 18, 2021, aged 94. His funeral service took place St. Mary The Virgin, Silverton, on February 2. Jim Massey and his wife, Norah, settled in Silverton in 1975 after many years of travelling the world as an army officer.

He became a stalwart of the British Legion, and President of the Exeter Branch of The Royal Corps of Transport Association. Together with Norah’s membership and subsequent presidency of the Silverton’s Women Institute, between them, they contributed greatly to village life for many years. After retiring from active duty, Jim decided he needed a hobby and took on one of the allotments off the Exeter Road, where he enthusiastically grew a range of vegetables, much to the delight of visiting grandchildren.

Jim enjoyed a pint, and was particularly fond of the beers brewed locally. He will be missed. Bickleigh

Let’s Be Positive!

I’ve never been fond of winter, particularly January and February, and even more so this year with our social distanced hermit like lifestyles that we have to endure for a bit longer yet. I’m hoping that, like me, you need every bit of good news we can get.

In that spirit I’ve gathered together a small collection of stories of kindness, happiness and joy, from around the world and closer to home. Please read on………

I’ll start with Sebbie, who has learning and physical disabilities. He’s been giving out biscuits to local police officers in Staffordshire, collecting food from local foodbanks for his neighbours and doing numerous other good deeds. He’s only 17, but said, “I really believe random acts of kindness are a superpower – I just happen to be lucky that it seems to be my superpower.”

How about the police officer in Massachusetts who purchased a Christmas dinner for two families after being called to arrest them for shoplifting. The shopkeeper reported that the two women with two young children were caught not scanning all their groceries. Seeing that they didn’t have enough money to feed their families he bought them gift cards worth £200 with his own money.

Not all acts of kindness have to cost a lot to have an impact. A man in Oldham picked up an envelope in the Asda carpark on Christmas Eve. The envelope had a Christmas tree drawn on it and contained a £5 note and read, ‘To whoever finds this, I hope you have a lovely Christmas. Keep smiling, there is light at the end of the tunnel!’

Or there’s Alice a nurse who early one morning found her car very frozen. A kind gentleman noticed her NHS lanyard and told her to get in the car whilst he scraped all the ice off her windows whilst she sat inside feeling both warm and appreciated.

I was also impressed when I read in the news that bird collections across the world have united to reintroduce a tiny kingfisher. The Guam kingfisher was last seen in the wild in 1988 after the population plummeted due to the accidental release of brown tree snakes into its habitat in the 1940s. There are now only 150 birds remaining in zoos and private collections so the plan is to breed these birds and create a population which could sustain in the wild. Although the birds cannot be reintroduced to their original habitat because of the snakes, scientists have identified some remote islands where they believe it could thrive.

Here’s a tale to melt any heart: customers of a coffeeshop in Ontario got together to raise enough money to help an employee go back to university. Vishnu works at Tim Hortons and really goes the extra mile with every customer he meets. According to customers, he fist-bumps you, he provides weather reports and makes you feel special. Vishnu was studying IT at university but had to drop out because of financial difficulties. When a group of customers heard about it, they set up a GoFundMe campaign and raised over £20,000 showing how people really can make a difference.

And closer to home, Tiverton in fact, how about the inspiring teenager Courtney Penfold who marked her 18th birthday by using the £602 she received in gifts, by heading to Morrisons to buy food and supplies for CHAT, Tiverton’s foodbank. Courtney said, “I am fortunate to come from a brilliant family and have lots of presents and a Christmas dinner put on the table, so I just wanted to make Christmas as special as I could for other people.”

And finally, it cheered me up that the best number 2 song of all time, Wham!’s Last Christmas (just pipping Vienna by Ultravox!) finally made it to number 1, 36 years after it was released.

Until next time – stay positive!! Clive Williams [email protected]

Butterleigh

Christmas was a very different affair this year and, like most people it was very quiet as we were unable to be with our friends and family. However, we managed to make the most of a lovely sunny Sunday afternoon just before Christmas with ‘Carols in the Park’ the Village Hall car park that was – we indulged in mince pies and mulled wine and all being socially distanced and wearing our masks we sang carols which had been organised by the Smith family who also accompanied us with pre-recorded music from Clare. It certainly went a long way to putting us in the festive mood.

Christmas Eve bought another treat with ‘Follow the Star’. This was a video made by the children (and some parents) about the nativity. Each scene was filmed in their own home or garden and was an absolute joy to watch. We were able to log into the video on our laptops or tablets and watch it in the comfort of our homes. Every one of them was indeed a star and they all deserve an Oscar! Thank you to the Hall family for organising this.

Usually at this time of year we start to remind you that the annual subscriptions for the Silverleigh Parishes Magazine is now due. However, due to the latest lockdown restrictions we are unable to produce a hard copy of the February and possibly March editions of the magazine. An electronic version is available to download from ‘A Church Near You’ website for each Parish or you can request a pdf version be emailed to you by getting in touch with [email protected] Once the paper versions are resumed, the subscription for the remaining months will be £3. Information as to how to pay will be advised in due course.

As we are ensconced in the third lockdown a lot of us are grateful to have our dogs to get us out of the house for long walks in the countryside and our cats for companionship. Some cats, however, do work for their living. In 1633 the first working cat was employed by the diocese of Exeter Cathedral to keep down the increasing number of vermin. Back then, animal fat was used to grease the workings of the clock and this in turn provided food for the rats and mice. It also gave rise to the nursery rhyme Hickory dickory dock, the mouse ran up the clock! The cat was paid the princely sum of equivalent of 12½p per year. There has been a cat at the Cathedral even to this day. The current black and white feline is called Stapledon, after one of the Bishops of Exeter who was born over 700 years ago!

Sadly, during the tail end of last year, both Roger Weekes and Ann Smith passed away. Ordinarily, St Matthew’s Church would have been packed to bursting with others spilling into the Village Hall next door to attend the service. Due to Covid restrictions this was not possible.

However, on both occasions, the people of Butterleigh along with friends from outlying areas lined the lanes along the funeral route to the church to pay their last respects and to support the families of our dear departed friends. Jo (Roger’s daughter) has asked me to pass on this message: “Thank you for your support for Dad at the Church on the funeral day. Lining the road and standing on the Green, it was very touching and I know Dad would have been amazed by everyone being out in support. Please thank people for all their kind cards and letters given to all of us and showing lovely support for Mum during these last few weeks”.

From Clare Smith: “Our heartfelt thanks for the most moving display of support for our family yesterday when we saw so many wonderful people lining our route as we followed Ann’s hearse through Butterleigh and on to Devon Crematorium. It really was so touching, emotional and very greatly appreciated by us all.”

Butterleigh 50:50 It is also that time of year when people start knocking on your door to sell you 50/50 tickets for the Village Hall. This year, like everything else, will be a little different. We're asking you to write your own reminder, and then next time you're walking or driving through the village, drop off the money. The terms are as usual - each £5 ticket will be entered in 12 draws throughout the year, 50% of money raised to be paid out in prizes. Ticket money to the outside mail boxes of either Sue Paradise at Chapel Cottage or Liz Williams at 2 Forge Lane, in an envelope with the names of those for whom you are buying, and contact details.

It will help pay the Hall's running costs while we have no lettings as well as being able to carry out much needed repairs (such as recovering the chairs) and it's way better odds than the Lottery! Admittedly the cash prizes are smaller... One other small favour - if you have friends and neighbours who don’t have email or who won’t see this digital newsletter, would you tell them too? The Village Hall Committee thanks you in advance for your support. If you have any questions, email [email protected] or on 01884 855577. Good luck!

50/50 Winners from the Bumper December Draw: Sophia Archibald, Steve Taverner, Tina Bassett, Ez Stewart, Kirsten Deauville, Austin Todd, Charlie Adams, Margot Williams, Henry Weekes, Simone Stanbrook-Byrne, Ruth Williamson and Sarah Stewart.

Finally, I leave you on a happy note that the snowdrops are starting to appear in the hedgerows, especially along the Burn Valley and I have also seen primroses and the odd daffodil in bloom. Spring is definitely on the way! Stay safe and well. Best wishes Janet Taverner [email protected]

Exeter and District Osteoporosis Support Group

The Exeter and District Osteoporosis Support Group is part of the Royal Osteoporosis Society. The president of the society is HRH The Duchess of Cornwall who is incredibly supportive. The support group was formed in September 2017.

We used to hold five meetings a year at St Leonards Church Hall in Exeter. We had a speaker at each meeting, usually on a subject relating to osteoporosis followed by tea/ biscuits and time to chat with others with the same condition. Our average attendance was about 50 people. As a committee we have kept in touch during the pandemic and have decided to put together a programme of events for 2021. Our first two meetings will be held virtually via ‘Team’ and by June we are hoping that we may be able to return to St Leonards.

We are a very friendly group and anyone with osteoporosis or supporting anyone with osteoporosis is very welcome to join us.

Thursday 11th February at 2.00 pm - Speaker, Suzanne Hewitt talking about fashion tips for those with osteoporosis and fractures.

Thursday 22nd April at 2.00 pm - Speaker Craig Jones CEO of Royal Osteoporosis Society.

Thursday 17th June at 2.00 pm - Dr Karen Knapp, Associate Professor in Musculoskeletal imaging at Exeter University.

Thursday 16th September at 2.00 pm - Sanna Hunt speaking on dentistry and osteoporosis.

Thursday 18th November at 2.00 pm - Dr Mary Brown, Rheumatology Consultant.

If you would like to join us at any of our meetings, please email our local address [email protected] or telephone head office 01761473112 If you require medical help about your condition the ROS nurses are available on free helpline 0808 800 0035 between 9am/1pm and 2pm/5pm Monday to Friday or email [email protected] or web site wwwtheros.org.uk Ann Bowden Committee Member 30

Wyndham House Surgery Fore Street, Silverton, EX5 4HZ Telephone: 01392 860034 www.wyndhamhousesurgery.co.uk Currently rated as an OUTSTANDING Practice by the CQC

Day/Dr Dr Anthony Dr Catherine Dr Jeff Solman Dr Ziyad Elgaid O’Brien Burkill Monday 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 15:00 – 17:30 15:00 – 17:30 15:00 – 17:30 Tuesday 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 14:00 – 17:30 15:00 – 17:30 15:00 – 17:30 Wednesday 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 15:00 – 17:30 15:00 – 17:30 Thursday 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 14:00 – 16:00 15:00 – 17:30 Friday 14:30 – 16:00* 09:00 – 11:30 09:00 – 11:30 *emergencies only Please note: The doctors are happy to speak to you on the phone instead of an appointment if you prefer. Please request this from reception when you telephone. Surgery hours: Monday - Thursday 08:30 - 18:00 Friday 08:30 - 17:00 Dispensary hours: Monday - Thursday 08.30 - 18:00 Friday 08.30 - 17:00

There is no closure for lunch and prescriptions ca be collected throughout the day

Repeat prescriptions can be ordered online via our website.

We also operate a home delivery service for housebound registered patients.

Please contact our reception or dispensary for more information.

Flexible appointments at beginning and end of day if required – just ask

Wellbeing Co-ordinator Update

Here we are in yet another lockdown and the threat of the new variants of Covid 19, with their increased risk of spreading, is keeping us all at home.

Hope is on its way with the vaccination programme getting well underway protecting the elderly and vulnerable first and then working down through the ages. We must remember that it will take about three weeks for the first vaccination to give any protection and we need to have had the two doses before we can have any confidence in its effectiveness. We are all looking forward to when the Memory cafe can reopen again but it won’t be until it is safe for us all.

Christmas was a very quiet affair this year with only the decorating of a tree as part of The Christmas Tree Trail. As with everyone else, we missed the usual celebrations.

We have had to close our Jigsaw puzzle lending library for now but as soon as we are able, we will reopen it to anyone who would like to borrow from our wide range of jigsaw puzzles.

If you are having trouble with your memory and would like confidential advice, please do get in touch with me.

Trish Jones Wellbeing Co Ordinator 0748 437 7298 Friends of Wyndham House Surgery [email protected]

Positive speculation about vaccination

This is the first time in 10 months that I feel relatively confident in being able to predict what will have happened by the time you are reading this. The practice has had a frantic last 2 weeks and as a result by the end of January we will have vaccinated all of our patients over 80 and the majority of patients in the next 2 groups; patients over 70 and those with clinical conditions that make them extremely vulnerable.

As I write, we have run 7 clinics in the last week and visited all our housebound patients to give them a vaccine. This has been a remarkable piece of work involving everyone at the surgery and working closely with our neighbouring practices in Cullompton. For those offered the vaccine there has been almost 100% acceptance and an enormous thank you to everyone who made the clinics run so well – nobody missed appointments and flow through the clinics was smooth and extremely safe.

By the end of January, a mass vaccination centre will have opened at Westpoint. Patients will receive letters offering them an appointment for a first vaccination and I would encourage you to take this up unless you are already booked in for a clinic with Wyndham House. As always within the NHS, the connection between national and local organisation is not as coordinated as we would hope for. Vaccine delivery to GP practices has been unpredictable.

We were due to receive our first delivery in mid-December and this was cancelled at very short notice. We then waited for 4 weeks with no news until, like the proverbial bus, we received 3 deliveries in 8 days. The opening of Westpoint is likely to affect our vaccine supply and so the timetable for our clinics in February remains unpredictable. Up until now we have been phoning patients to arrange appointments but moving forward into the younger groups, we will take advantage of this population being more accessible by mobile phone and email. Please ensure that the contact details we have on your notes are up to date. When we receive supplies, we will be sending texts and emails to patients asking them to book appointments.

You will receive either a letter, a text or an email (possibly all three), please follow the instructions to book your vaccine at the earliest opportunity for 33

you. It is important to reiterate that everyone requires two doses of the vaccine. The current plan is for these to be 12 weeks apart and so we will be running second dose clinics in April. Please do not ring the surgery asking for details about vaccination, wait for us to contact you.

Whilst relatively confident about predicting what will happen in the next two weeks, I will not chance my clairvoyancy any further. Covid is going to be with us for some time and Devon has been extremely lucky so far.

‘Hands, Face, Space’ rules remain the most important weapon against the spread of the virus. However, the enormous positive and universal uptake of the vaccine, along with the successful delivery during January, leaves me feeling very positive about the months ahead. Anthony O’Brien Wyndham House Surgery

Dealing with The Black Stuff… THE EXE VALLEY CHIMNEY SWEEP Fully insured and trained NACS member Certificate issued for insurance purposes. CCTV surveys if required. T: 01884 855597 or M: 07980 146076 email: [email protected]

Appointments advisable. Contact me by phone, text, or Facebook to arrange a visit. Please note I do not answer my phone when I’m with a client, so please leave a message, I will get back to you

GCSE, A LEVEL and UNIVERSITY COACHING. CREATIVE WRITING SUPPORT Help from teacher of over 40 years' experience - university, college and school. Extensive writing background - books and articles Former A’Level Examiner, over 35 years of university examining - undergraduate and postgraduate Subjects: History, Politics, Philosophy, English and Sociology John Kirkaldy 22 Fore Street, Silverton, EX5 4HP 07970 875601 01392 861423 [email protected] 36

Exe Valley Cab Co 01392 555247 [email protected] (advance bookings only)

4, 6 & 8 Seater Vehicles

Local and Long Distance

Bike Transport—Executive Travel—Wedding Cars

Trish’s paws and claws Pet Care

Caring for your animals when you can’t

Dog walking, Pet taxi, Pet/House Sitting, Any smallholding animals cared for.

01392 881593 07709 725243 [email protected]

t: 07969 182921

LESLEY COLLINS PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT

When you are struggling a little – I offer a caring service to help meet all your needs Daytime Care washing/meals/shopping/cleaning/ visits (Minimum employment 1 hour) Night Care – Sleep or wake nights Fully insured and certificated references available 40 (25 years plus of experience) Tel; 07896 973334

J&J Carpet Cleaners

(Mid Devon Based)

Professionally cleaned carpets using the best German machinery and old-fashioned customer service

4 rooms cleaned for £150 10% discount for OAPs

Quality and Service Guaranteed

Recommended by Bobby G of Bucks Fizz and numerous agents in Devon

Telephone Jay on 07493 597415

Independent Carer Do you or do you know someone who needs a little support with any of the following?

Showering/Bathing, Light Housework, Meal Preparation, Laundry, Ironing, Shopping, Respite or just company and a chat?

From 30 minutes a week to 30 minutes or more a day, as a one-off, as a last-minute stop-gap or as a more regular arrangement.

A friendly, relaxed, flexible, professional, consistent and personal service to each client and their family.

Please contact Sue 07827 677207 [email protected]@me.com

I am fully Insured and CRB checked 41

MRL Marcus Riggs Landscaping

All aspects of landscaping undertaken Stonework, brickwork, paving, driveways, new lawns, water features, shed bases and sheds, fencing, decking, design ideas

07891 008859 [email protected]

Check my work on my website www.marcusriggslandscaping.co.uk

L Adams Tree Services

Tree surgery Stump grinding Hedge trimming Fencing Garden maintenance Grass cutting & Strimming Landscaping Logs Contact Lloyd Adams 01884 32864 07809 613490

[email protected] www.ladamstreeservices.co.uk

Tel: 252827 Fax: 01884 256553

[email protected]

6 St Peter Street Tiverton EX16 6NX

Utility Warehouse Authorised Distributor Olivia

Want to reduce your household bills?

Call me for a free no-obligation consultation

01392 861020 [email protected] www.save4freedom.com

t: 07969 182921

A.P.C. Decorating Quality Painting & Decorating Services All aspects of internal & external decorating undertaken

Contact Adrian for FREE quotation

01884 258905 07980 519715 [email protected] www.apcdecorating.co.uk

Kevin Sussex

PAINTER AND DECORATOR

01392 881961

48 07919 950222

Advertising in Silverleigh

Eighth-page £2.50 per issue, quarter-page £5 per issue [email protected]

Editor Jill Shaw 01884 855034 [email protected]

Bickleigh correspondent Clive Williams 01884 855093 [email protected] Butterleigh correspondent Janet Taverner 01884 855764 [email protected] Cadeleigh correspondent Miriam Halam-Deakin 01884 232 902 [email protected]

Subscription and Distribution Co-ordinator: Dianne Wannell 01392 860387 [email protected]

Contacts for changes/enquiries for Parishes: Silverton: Dianne Wannell 01392 860387 Bickleigh: Alison Nelsen 01884 855309 Butterleigh: Maria Nash [email protected] Cadeleigh: Roger Winlaw 01884 855641

Proof readers Bill Croome 01392 861264 [email protected] Michael Griffin 01392 860519 [email protected]

Treasurer (subs) Mike Shipton 01392 860917 Invoicing (ads) Tony Hall 01392 881339 [email protected] Outlet sales Belinda Lyon-Smith 01392 860413 Marketing Liz Gilbert 01392 860572 [email protected]

The small print *I take responsibility for my own mistakes but not those of others. *I reserve the right to alter or leave out material because of lack of space or editorial considerations but will always try to contact the contributor first. Some alterations can only be made at the last minute (eg because of space), in which case there may not be time to contact the person concerned. A copy of the Editorial Policy can be provided. *The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily49 my own. Editor

Accountant Estate Agents Painting and decorating Apsleys 2 Wilkinson Grant 52 Kevin Sussex 48 Twenty Twenty Property 52 APC 48 Architects Plumbing and heating HMAD 47 Firewood NJT 39 New British Design 52 Culm Valley Firewood 38 Edwards Plumbing 47

Animals and equipment care Energy Systems 46 Financial advice H&A Dog Grooming 38 Tiverton Plumb & Heat 47 Chris Vicary 45 Rug Revolution 38 Plumb In 47 Trish’s paws and claws 38 Cathedral Financial 46 Roofing Sophisticated scratch 35 Forestry AIIR Roofing 42 Carys pet hampers 34 L Adams Tree Services 44 Kilbride Roofing 48

Dog walking and pets 37 Ken Hogan 43 Sewing, soft furnishings Auctioneers Garden machinery Duo Interiors 39 Chilcotts 37 T&D Garden Machinery 44 Sewing Bee 38 AC Garden Machinery 45 Builders Shops H Pring Elec & Property 48 Bickleigh Mill 2 Garden and landscaping Heard & Sendell 40 Carers Ed Rogers 44 Exe Valley Farm Shop 44 Independent carer (Sue) 41 L Adams Tree Services 44 Lesley Collins 40 Ken Hogan 43 Solicitors AD Isaac Landscape Svs 43 Hole & Pugsley 45 Carpentry Steve Land 43 S L Chanin 46 Storage Marcus Riggs Landscaping 43 Silverton Local 40 Catering/Food Iain Clarke 35

Bickleigh Mill 2 Taxis Ark Events 46 Golf Exe Cars 39 Exe Valley Farm Shop 44 Silverleigh Golf Centre 2 Exe Valley Cab Co 38

Tutor Chimney sweeps Hair and beauty John Kirkaldy 36 Clean Sweep 40 Flixx 37 Appleyard’s 41 Penny Rice 36 Silverton Barber 36 Exeter Chimney Sweeps 42 Foot care services 37 Utility bills Heritage 42 Utility Warehouse 46 Robin Maynard Exe Valley 34 Handymen/Maintenance Paul Gawen 42 Vehicle repairs Cleaning C+R Repairs 39 J&J Carpet Cleaners 41 Health and well-being Pilgrim Motor Svs 41 Computer supply/support Systematic Kinesiologist 38 A Heard 48 Ian Gunter, Dialword 45 Kate Elgar 36 Yoga – Wandering Buddah 35 Venues/Holiday Accom Digging/Drainage Sole2sole 38 Bickleigh Castle 2 Stuart Luxton 35 Wine to Water 2 The Barton 52

Electricians H Pring Electrical & Pty 48

Useful phone numbers and information

Emergency Fire, police and ambulance 112 or 999 Police – non urgent 101 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Gas emergency 0800 111 999 South-west Water emergency leak line 0344 346 2020 Western Power electricity emergencies 0800 365 900 Power cut information 105 NHS Direct/ Devon Docs out of hours service 111 Mid Devon District Council 01884 255 255 Devon County Council 01392 382 000 Highways, footpaths, rights of way, etc 0345 155 1004 Street lighting faults 0800 197 6763 Consumer Direct SW, trading standards 0345 404 0506 Canal Ranger service 01884 254 072 Health Tiverton Hospital 01884 235 400 Exe Valley Leisure Centre, Tiverton 01884 254 221 Help Samaritans 01392 411 711 Childline 0800 1111 RSPCA 08705 555 999 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0800 800 500 Job Centre Plus 01884 703 000 Age UK Tiverton, Cullompton and District 01884 255 362 Library – Tiverton 01884 244 644 Tiverton Museum 01884 256 295 Council/MP Contacts Mel Stride is the MP for Central Devon Constituency [email protected] 01392 823 306 Margaret Squires County Councillor [email protected] 01363 84337 Bob Deed Leader of Mid Devon District Council [email protected] 01392 861258 Josh Wright Lib Dem represents Silverton Ward 01392 860896