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Annual Report for 2018 The First Civic Society in Britain Founded 1846 The Association promotes conservation and heritage, the Museum, and facilities for recreational and cultural activities in the Sid Valley. www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk Notice of AGM of the Sid Vale Association CIO Sidmouth Museum 2.30pm Wednesday 22nd May 2019 at the Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth Hope Cottage, Church Street Opening Times AGENDA Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm Chairman’s welcome Sunday Closed 1 Apologies for absence Guided walks throughout the season 2 Minutes of SVA CIO AGM held on 25/04/2018 £2.50 per person 3 Matters Arising SVA members and under 16s FREE 4 Election of Trustees Tuesdays 10.30am – Western Town Walk The following Trustees’ terms of office end at this AGM, and are standing for A Royal Death – King Chit – The Field by the Fort re -election Thursdays 10.30am – Eastern Town Walk • Peter Brookes River Blackmore Gardens & Tunnels – Poorhouse & Jail – Elysian Fields • Ed Harrison Vice Chair Wednesdays 2pm – Geology Walk Learn about the rocks and landscape of Sidmouth’s 240 million year geological past • Liz Warren Secretary in a leisurely stroll along the Esplanade. 5 Presentation of remaining Trustees • Di Fuller Overview • Richard Huntington Woodlands & Estates Fund Raising Concerts for the Sid Vale Association in collaboration with Sidholme • Val Huntington Magazine and Publicity Gala Concerts for SVA Members in the Sidholme Music Room • Nigel Hyman Museum • Richard Thurlow Chair, and Conservation & Planning Tuesday 7th May – 2.30-4.30pm & Tuesday 8th October – 2.30-4.30pm • Gary Turner Treasurer Recital by Lorraine Low, John Brindley, 6 Trustees who stood down during the year • Stephen Pemberton Events & Excursions with Dorothy Worthington at the piano • John Dowell Publications l Lorraine Low is a professionally trained classical 7 Presentation of Annual Report & Accounts singer (Mezzo Soprano) and has taken part in the 8 Appointment of auditor Oxford Lieder Festival in a master class for top level 9 Presentation by Nigel Hyman amateurs. She has previously sung at Sidholme. l The Grand, The Good and The Ghastly – a further personal view of Sidmouth's John Brindley (Baritone) and Dorothy Worthington buildings (Piano) are renowned local performers. 10 AOB (please notify the Chair prior to the meeting) l The Gala Concerts will be themed events – Spring Close of meeting (May) and Autumn (October). l Refreshments will be available at Sidholme before and during the Interval. Tea and coffee available in the bar l Tickets £5 available in advance from Sidmouth Museum or by post from Stephen Pemberton, SVA Events, 7 Glenisla Terrace, Sidmouth EX10 8BP. Please send SAE and cheque payable to Sid Vale Association . email: [email protected] tel: 07810 496566.
Cover photo by Naomi Lott – Monday morning team starting work on Gilchrist pond 3 Sid Vale Association CIO Sid Vale Association CIO President – Alan Darrant Minutes of the 4th Annual General Meeting of the SVA CIO Vice President – Brian Callaway 2.30pm on 25th April 2018 at The Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth TRUSTEES FOR 2018 70 people attended the meeting Chairman Richard Thurlow [email protected] Alan Darrant , Chair of the Association, welcomed everyone to the meeting. Vice Chairman Ed Harrison [email protected] 1 Apologies Iain MacMillan, Tony & Barbara Dustan Smith, Kate Tobin, Richard Fleet, Treasurer Gary Turner [email protected] Peter & Sue Bird Secretary Liz Warren [email protected] 2 Minutes of the AGM held on 26th April 2017 – Agreed and signed. Conservation & Planning Richard Thurlow conservation @sidvaleassociation.org.uk 3 Matters Arising none. Woodlands and Estates Richard Huntington [email protected] 4 Election of Trustees River Warden Peter Brookes [email protected] 4.1 The following trustee’s term of office expired as at this AGM and was standing for re- Museum Curator Dr Nigel Hyman [email protected] election • Richard Thurlow Conservation & Planning Publicity & Magazine Editor Val Huntington [email protected] Scrutiny Overview Di Fuller [email protected] Alan Darrant proposed that he be re-elected – agreed by the meeting. Excursions Steve Pemberton [email protected] 4.2 The following trustees who had previously been appointed, were also elected. • Stephen Pemberton Events • Gary Turner Treasurer SUB-COMMITTEES/WORKING PARTIES Publications John Dowell [email protected] 5 Presentation of remaining Trustees • Peter Brookes River Warden Talks Brendan Lee & John Ridgley [email protected] Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership • John Dowell Publications Brian Hall [email protected] • Di Fuller Overview Walks Jackie Stokes [email protected] • Edmund Harrison Vice Chair Local History Brian Golding [email protected] • Richard Huntington Woodlands & Estates Footpaths Liaison Officer Phil Bradbury [email protected] • Val Huntington Magazine & Publicity Keith Owen Fund Kate Tobin [email protected] • Dr Nigel Hyman Museum Investments Gary Turner [email protected] • Elizabeth Warren Secretary Membership Andrew Scott [email protected] 6 Trustees standing down at this AGM Museum Publicity Ann Tanner [email protected] • Handel Bennett President Museum Shop Ann Jones [email protected] • Alan Darrant Chair Woodlands and Estates Led by Jon Ball and Mike Davies Alan paid tribute to Handel who had been a driving force in the organisation since he joined in 2000. He invited Handel to say a few words about his time with SVA. Handel spoke of the General Enquiries [email protected] developments that had taken place in the last 18 years which included the acquisition of more land, the Keith Owen Fund, setting up a website and the digital records of Members, expansion of the Museum and publications and planting the Valley of a Million Bulbs. He thanked all the Trustees and volunteers and hoped everyone would support Richard Thurlow as the new Chairman of SVA. Alan presented Handel with a card and gift.
4 5 Alan explained that he was standing down as Chair after 7 years, having been Secretary A Andrew Scott had written a report and his contact details were also shown in for the previous 7 years. He was proud to be taking on the role of President and he also the AGM magazine. He was not a Trustee so had not been named in agenda thanked everyone who volunteered for SVA in various ways. item 5. 6.1 Trustees who stood down during the year 8 Appointment of Auditors for 2017 • Richard Fleet Treasurer Alan proposed that Easterbrook Eaton & Co be re-appointed as Auditor/Independent • Chris Woodruff Keith Owen Fund examiner for 2018 This was agreed by the meeting. • Brendan Lee & John Ridgley Talks 9 Presentation re Buildings in Sidmouth • Brian Hall AONB Nigel Hyman gave an amusing illustrated presentation about his personal likes and dislikes regarding the buildings and architecture in Sidmouth. Alan explained that although Brendan, John and Brian had stood down as Trustees he was delighted that they were continuing their volunteer roles. He also thanked Chris 10 AOB Woodruff for the many years he had served on the Keith Owen Fund Committee latterly Richard Thurlow thanked Alan for his time as Secretary and Chair of SVA and presented as Chair. him with a card and gift. 7 Presentation of Annual Report & Accounts Richard invited members of SVA to come and see the new offices at ‘Trumps’ on 13th Alan introduced Gary Turner as the new SVA Treasurer. Gary had taken on this role at the June. They were also encouraged to bring prospective members along to meet the team. end of 2017. He reminded everyone that SVA relies on volunteers to carry out all its activities and asked anyone who wished to get involved to come forward. Gary apologised that the draft accounts as published in the AGM Report had a number of typographical and formatting errors but that the totals had been correct at the time of The meeting closed at 3.30pm printing. He had prepared and circulated a handout with updated figures. There had also been timing issues as SVA had been left a substantial legacy which although not yet received should be accounted for in 2017 and that meant that the SVA’s annual income MEMBERSHIP AND ELECTIONS was such that a full audit became necessary and that the fees were therefore higher. The Sid Vale Association is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registration Because he had only joined the organisation at the end of the financial year it had taken number 1154749. time to assimilate the existing accounting system and locate relevant documentation. At the Annual General Meeting, members of the association elect the charity This would not happen in future years. The audit was still continuing, although he did not trustees for a three year term of office. The trustees have collective responsibility anticipate any further significant changes. for the whole organisation and meet every month. The SVA’s overall financial position was secure with a net income of £153,000 in 2017 but In addition to these responsibilities each trustee takes on the role of an officer of there were major works required on the Museum building and there were additional the association and/or the lead or chair of a working group responsible for a running costs since “Trumps” was operational. He invited questions. particular activity of the SVA – for example Nigel Hyman chairs the Museum Q In the General Fund why were some expenses shown under income? Committee. A full meeting of trustees and sub committee leaders is held every four A Gary explained that he had followed a previous format where the Events income months. and expenditure were shown together. He would amend the format as well as The full constitution is available on the website at www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk or present a consolidated Income and Expenditure statement in future years. by contacting the secretary 43, Primley Road, Sidmouth EX10 9LF. Alan thanked Gary for taking on the task especially after a difficult year following changes of personnel. Alan also thanked the Investment Committee for the great results they had achieved. He The Sid Vale Association is affiliated to: introduced John Dyson who chaired that committee. John talked about the links The South West Association of Civic Societies • Civic Voice between his Town Council role and the way SVA volunteers contribute to the valley and in The Campaign to Protect Rural England (Headquarters) particular their work with the P3 footpaths committee. The Campaign to Protect Rural England (Devon Branch) • The Open Spaces Society. Q Joan Bennett questioned why the important and time-consuming work carried The Devonshire Association for the Advancement of Science, Literature and Art out by the Membership Secretary had not been acknowledged. The Devon Conservation Forum • The Tree Foundation
6 7 Chairman’s Report for 2018 Neighbourhood Plan. We of course continued to comment on local planning applications. It doesn’t seem like a year ago that I took over the role of Chair 2018 saw us continue with our work on planning new Blue Plaques and replacing old from Alan Darrant. I suppose this demonstrates how exciting plaques. It’s amazing what work this has required. SVA work can be! Our Woodlands and Estates team increased markedly in size last year, nearly 20 people It has been a year of moving forward for us; the reports from are turning up regularly to carry out maintenance and improvement work on our land in the various Activity Leaders show what has been achieved, but the valley. I would like to bring to your attention the most important The Museum staff, as usual, excelled themselves in their development of museum activities and issues that have occurred in 2018. activities. I’m sure most people don’t understand the huge amount of time that all As you will know, we undertake a very large range of Activities volunteers spend throughout the year, in planning exhibitions and events, re-organising and it is important for our Management Trustees and Activity displays and manning it in the spring and summer, as well as organising walks in the Leaders to know what is going on. However, we found we were town. Visitor numbers are up on last year, income has been increased through charging somewhat overloaded with meetings so we revised the management structure last year, for walks around the town, young visitors have been encouraging by addressing their simplifying it so that we meet only once per month, varying the type of meeting so that needs. The Museum itself has benefited from some new carpeting, new furniture and the everyone, not only Trustees, has a chance to contribute and inform others of what is use of additional space created by the transfer of most administrative duties to Fore happening. Street, thus releasing another room for displays. I encourage you to visit the Museum – it’s outstanding. Administratively, we found ourselves caught up in the introduction of the new “General Data Protection Regulations” and hence we asked all SVA members to confirm their Our River Warden and the Museum, organised an exhibition marking the 50th details to us, update email addresses, (we did not have many!) and additionally answer a anniversary of the East Devon flood and its effect on Sidmouth, which proved to be a Questionnaire about their views of the SVA. Thus, we are now complying with the GDPR, very great success. and can now email most of you about forthcoming events. Your response to the We have undertaken the usual range of activities managed by our Events team. Questionnaire has enabled us to produce Forward Plans for all our Activities well as hold Excursions were made to Wyke Farm and Minterne House, Fursdon House and Gants Mill a register of Volunteers and those who might become one. (An article about the results and Padstow and Pencarrow House. All were well attended. of the Questionnaire can be found in this report). Monthly talks in the Manor Pavilion were held throughout the winter months, the The Charity Commission requires us to have Policies covering a number of areas. To highlight being a talk given by the well-known palaeontologist Richard Fortey, entitled comply we have therefore written “Policies” for a wide range of issues, which now form “The wood for the trees”, a delightful resume of a year’s activities in his own small wood the backbone of our operations. in the Chilterns. On the Finance side we have reviewed the way we produce and present financial reports, Monthly walks continued to be run in the locality. Liz Cotton, leader for many years both for the SVA and the Keith Owen fund. These are now easier to understand for lay decided to step down. We thank her for all the work she has done over the years members such as me! organizing many excellent walks. Jackie Stokes has decided to take on this role. Volatility in the financial markets is proving difficult to manage at the moment and is We worked with Sidmouth Town Council and the Parish Paths Partnership to commence likely to continue for some while. This is reflected in our investment accounts. The KOF planning a new signed footpath route in the Sid valley. This is to be Called the “Sid Valley Investment Committee has acquired a new member, Paul Lewis, Director of an Ring”, this route will be about 13 miles long. investment management firm. He has been able, through his professional experience, to Finally, I have to record my thanks to all the volunteers, in whatever capacity, who make give insights into investment issues and to give valuable advice on Charity Commission the SVA such a vibrant organisation. We have a splendid team. Without them we would aspects of our investment work. He is giving his time pro bono. not function across so many activities. I am indeed fortunate and proud to be able to The KOF made awards totalling over £90,000 in 2018, to nearly 20 organisations; over the chair such an organisation as the SVA years the KOF has given well over £1m to local organisations. What an achievement. I would like to invite you all to our autumn open afternoon at HQ on Wednesday 4th The Conservation & Planning team were still involved in issues regarding the Sidford September when there will be an opportunity to meet all the trustees/team leaders. Employment site throughout the year (since 2012!), objecting to the latest application for Richard Thurlow planning permission for the site. We also commented on the Drill Hall issues and the
8 9 Sid Vale Association CIO Balance Sheet as at 31st December 2018 Income & Expenditure 2018 2017 ASSET S 2018 Tangible fi xed assets 262,406 Pro pert y 263,306 n e d e p n l w d a u a c d m 15,364 Fixt ure s, fittings and equipme nt 12,027 r d O n n u F L u s u e t e n th d s A 7 n u i F n F s T 1 401 278,171 Heri tage asse ts 401 275,734 e F e a u ru O 0 G K L M T T 2 Cash £ £££ £ £ 18,540 HSBC Tre asu re r' s Acco unt 5,908 Income 1,276 HSBC Landsca pe Acco unt 3,545 Donati ons & Legacies 2,971 9,155 12,125 1 15,332 31,736 CAF bank 243,259 Ev ents & acti viti es 5,226 1,260 6,486 4,958 169,431 Virg in Mo ney 170,728 Investm ent income 1,484 168,138 3,996 6,329 179,947 178,463 6,690 Harg re ave s Lansd own Cash acco unt 8,249 Me mbership Su bs 3,035 3,035 3,251 8,275 HSBC Mu se um acco unt 10,458 Renta l Income 1,100 1,100 1,100 235,948 442,147 Sa les & Oth er Income 2 2,395 8,877 1 1,273 14,297 Tota l Income 13,818 168,138 6,390 19,291 6,329 213,967 317,401 61,000 Debto rs 6,545
16,000 Sto ck 16,000 Ex penditu re 312,948 Current Assets 464,691 Awards 54,009 54,009 61,250 Banking & Insurance 1,375 1,733 3,108 2,489 320 320 - Blue Pl aque Costs 1,787 Credito rs 13,918 Depreciati on 3,841 3,841 3,841 31 1,161 Net Current Assets 450,773 Ev ents & acti viti es costs 5,914 409 6,323 4,280 1,424 251 1,074 2,750 2,025 General Admin, tr avel etc . 3,237,727 Investm ents at Ma rket Value 2,647,872 Governance 719 222 360 1,301 6,051 3,827,059 3,374,379 IT & digita l acti vity 2,066 230 2,296 1,049 Mi scellaneous 101 1,526 1,627 2,570 Mu seum Acti viti es 4,827 4,827 4,762 Mu seum Ma jor Costs 29,724 29,724 - REPR ESEN TED BY Offi ce F & E 603 1,428 2,031 1,575 242,051 Tru st Fund cu rre nt asse ts 252,242 Pr emises oth er costs 3,102 4,857 2,765 10,724 2,773 294,171 536,222 Tangible asse ts 263,306 515,548 Pr inti ng & publicity 1,944 41 826 2,693 5,504 4,520 Pr ofe ssional fe es 4,415 360 4,775 3,900 102,104 Landsca pe Fund 100,759 Repairs & Ma inte nance 2,170 2,170 2,444 141,408 Ke ith Owen Reve nue 216,168 Su ndry Ex penditu re 451 451 525 3,047,324 Ke ith Owen Pe rma nent En dowme nt 2,541,904 Uti liti es 658 5,430 6,088 4,575 3,827,059 3,374,379 Woodlands & esta te s 4,156 4,156 3,653 Tota l Ex penditu re 22,772 93,581 1,186 28,486 - 146,025 1 12,282 R Thurlow Chair Net Operati ng Income (8 ,954) 74,557 5,205 (9 ,195) 6,329 67,942 205,1 19 G Turner Treasurer NOTES Gain/(l oss) on investm ents (4 95,421) (6 ,548) (1 8,653) !"#$% &#'( !"'% )*)( These are preliminary results and are subject to Independent Examination. Final approved accounts, if Net Su rplus/(D efi cit) !"#$%&' !&()#"*+' !,#+&+' !$#,$%' !,(#+(&' !&%(#*-$' ...... ,%+#(&, materially different, will be available on the day of the AGM. The annual report and accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP will be available from the Charity Commission website or directly from the Treasurer. The accounts have been prepared on an accruals basis. Investments are in UK listed companies, and shown at market value as at 31st December 2018. In addition to Assets in the Balance Sheet the Association owns approximately 20 acres of land on Salcombe Hill known as the James Cornish Field, 2 acres known as Combe Head, 2 acres at Highfield Bickwell Valley, over 19 acres in the Byes comprising Livonia Field, Gilchrist Field, Margaret’s Meadow, 1.6 acres at Peaslands Knapp, Please bring this report with you to the and Trow pump house Salcombe Regis The Association also rents about 2 acres known as Allotment Field Wood on Soldiers Hill Salcombe Regis. Annual General meeting on May 22nd At 31st December 2018 the Executive Committee had approved grants due in 2019 from the Keith Owen Fund totalling £56,751 ( 2018: £13,565).
10 11 Table of Funds and their purpose Investment Committee report Funds Purpose for the year ended 31 December 2018 Unrestricted The policy agreed by the Executive Committee on 17th March 2008 was that: General The general running of the Association 1. Investments to be made only in FTSE 100 and 250 Companies. Trust The acquisition of land and or property 2. Not more than 20% of the fund should initially be invested in any one sector. Carrying out special projects or work in furtherance of the Aims of the SVA 3. Not more than 5% of the fund initially to be invested in a single company and ultimately not Museum Exclusively to cover the Museum running and capital expenditure to exceed 10% of the fund value. Keith Owen Revenue Income from investments to be used in accordance with the Memorandum of 4. Investments to be made as and when funds become available. Intention to support and encourage the aims of the SVA 5. The Committee to meet at least twice a year to review the portfolio, and monitor progress. Restricted The benchmarks approved by the Executive Committee for comparison are: Landscape Held jointly with the National Trust for the purchase of land The value of the portfolio should track the FTSE 100 index. Endowment The dividend yield to exceed the FTSE 100 average dividend by 15% Keith Owen To be invested in UK equities/funds Stock Market The FTSE 100 suffered its worst performance in some years during 2018, reflecting global concerns over trade wars and the shrinking Chinese economy. It was also, of course, exacerbated by local Brexit uncertainty as the Leave date draws nearer. The FTSE 100 started the year at an all time high Membership of 7687 but ended at 6728 on 31st December 2018, a fall of 12.6%. At the time of writing (February 2019), our total numbers stood at 1913, comprising Portfolio 1744 life members and 169 annual members. The value of the portfolio at 31st December was £1.13 per unit, an increase of 13% since 1st As mentioned in last year’s report, emphasis is now being placed on the recruitment January 2010. This compares with an increase 0f 24% in the FTSE 100 over the same period. of new annual members, paying by standing order. This has resulted in a further 15% During 2018, the portfolio fell 16% compared with the 12.6% fall in FTSE, ending with a increase in annual membership. There has been a slight decrease in life membership valuation of £2,647,871 compared with £3,237,727 at the beginning of the year. It is worth so that overall membership level has declined. noting that the value of £2.65m relates to £2.3m of original investments but does not include the £1.3m of dividend income received since 2008. As always, I express my thanks to our team of distributors and helpers who unfailingly The investment policy adopted at the request of Keith Owen and agreed by the Trustees limits ensure that members’ copies of the Annual Report and newsletters are delivered by the portfolio to investing in FTSE 350 stocks. As full replication of the market cannot be achieved hand to all members residing in the Sid Valley. I am truly grateful to them all, as I the portfolio performance will always depart from that index. could not do this job without their support. As a result of the fall in the benchmark over 2018, the portfolio always had the propensity to Data Protection Regulations underperform by a greater amount and therefore the underperformance over the course of 2018 Members’ names and addresses, together with the type of membership they hold was not a complete surprise. The performance over previous years, however, meant that it was (Life or Annual), are held on computer file. No details of subscription payments are not outside the ability of the SVA to absorb the extent of the loss. held on file. This information continues to be held separately. To comply with General At the time of writing this report, approximately 50% of the losses in 2018 have been recovered. Data Protection Requirements, we are required to notify all members of any The graph shows how the portfolio has information held on computer file, and to give them the opportunity to have such performed against the FTSE 100 since 2013 and details erased. This note is therefore published to meet this requirement, and will be shows the upswing in early 2019. published in each year’s Annual Report. Should any member prefer not to have his/her The downward trajectory in the FTSE during the name held on computer, they should write and inform the Membership Secretary last quarter led the Committee to retain more accordingly at The Sid Vale Association CIO, 36a Fore Street, Sidmouth EX10 8AQ. cash, resulting from stock sales, than it would Do we have your email address? If you are a member but not getting any emails from ordinarily prefer. At 31 December 2018, there us and you wish to do so, please send your email address to was £143k on the capital account. There was [email protected] very little other change in the portfolio, with 26 out of 27 stocks at the year-end being Andrew Scott unchanged from the start of the year. ! 12 13 The portfolio was invested in 27 Stock Value (£) % of total Keith Owen Fund companies at 31st December 2018. Royal Dutch Shell Plc B Shares EUR0.07 204,222 7.71 The top ten holdings are shown in the AstraZeneca plc Ordinary US$0.25 161,736 6.11 Summary of grants for 2018 Award Sidmouth in Bloom – 3D planting displays in the 3 Cornered Plot 12,550 chart. GlaxoSmithKline plc Ordinary 25p 153,113 5.78 Sidbury School PTFA – Polytunnel and garden tools to set up a gardening club 1,007 The chart below shows how the Persimmon plc Ordinary 10p 148,803 5.62 Sea Fest (Sidmouth Coastal Hub CIC) – Marquee and kitchen facilities 3,000 portfolio was spread over the various HSBC Holdings plc Ordinary USD0.50 133,329 5.04 EDDC Furzehill Play Park – Providing a zip wire in the play park 15,000 sectors as at 31/12/2018. Aviva plc Ordinary 25p 122,634 4.63 Legal & General Group plc Ordinary 2.5p 121,705 4.60 Sidmouth & Ottery Hockey Club – Cost of additional equipment 1,000 Dividends BP Plc Ordinary US$0.25 120,241 4.54 Sidmouth Trefoil Guild – 75th birthday celebrations 1,000 Income for the year was £178,463.17 BAE Systems plc Ordinary 2.5p 105,745 3.99 Sidmouth Literary Festival – Festival costs 2,000 representing a return on the market National Grid Ord 12, 204/473p 99,325 3.75 Sidford Social Hall – Refurbishing kitchen facilities 6,100 value of 6.74% compared with the Totals 1,370,852 51.77 Sidmouth College – Setting up a portable digital recording studio 1,217 average yield of the FTSE 100 of Sidmouth Golf Club – Developing a new junior and beginners 9 hole golf course 2,000 4.90%, making the benchmark 5.63%. The portfolio yield continues to benefit from higher Sidmouth Town Band – Adapting new premises with moveable soundproof wall 5,000 dividends in the construction sector and the weak pound, leading to higher values of dividends EDDC Manstone Play Area – Piece of new equipment for this play park 10,000 paid in US dollars. Sidford WI Centenary Celebrations – Various centenary celebrations 1,100 The following chart shows the return from the Norman Lockyer Observatory – New classroom and storage facilities 20,000 Lymebourne & Arcot Park Residents Assoc – Communal grounds garden project 2,080 portfolio has outperformed the benchmark Sidmouth Gig Club – Rowing machine for winter training 859 every year. Friends of the Byes – Plants and equipment to enhance Sid Meadow 1,022 Outlook Lymebourne & Arcot Park Social Club – Raised beds for residents gardening project 422 At the time of writing there is still no clarity Sidmouth Parish Church – Recovering the church roof in lead _ _ 5_,_0_0_0 _ regarding BREXIT and it is difficult to predict _9_0_,_3_5_7 _ what might happen in the remaining 9 months of the year. Some analysts, however, are We are delighted that our ten year anniversary of 2018 has seen a big increase in grants expecting 2019 to be a bumper year for the awarded with nearly £100,000 given to community groups and facilities. In addition, FTSE. SVA -run projects that fit with the objectives of the Keith Owen Fund also benefitted from One thing which became clear in 2018 was the! vulnerability of the portfolio, more specifically close to another £34,000. Both categories represent a huge amount of voluntary effort to the Endowment, to erosion in its real value resulting from the lack of reinvestment. As a result improve the Sid Valley, its heritage, environment and community spirit. the Trustees have amended the policy such that 10% of dividend income each year will be reinvested. Furthermore, the Committee, on behalf of the Trustees, is mindful of its obligations Projects supported ranged from a new classroom extension at the Norman Lockyer under Charity Commission guidelines Observatory and new play structures installed at two play parks to much smaller and intends to be pro-active in the initiatives, such as the communal garden at Lymbourne and Arcot Park. protection of the Endowment as well as the generation of income. With this and the uncertainties ahead the Committee and the Trustees have strengthened the team and appointed Paul Lewis to the Committee. Paul is the Director of the Exeter branch of Charles Stanley, a leading investment management firm.
Regardless of the results in 2018, the ! Committee continues to have faith in longer term investment returns and that FTSE 350 stocks Above: Alan Clarke presenting cheque to over the longer term will outperform both cash and bonds and therefore remain confident that Sidford Social Hall our current investment strategy remains suitable for the Permanent Endowment fund. Right: Nick Keast presenting cheque to Investment Committee Sidmouth Hockey Club
14 15 Our thanks go to new committee member Alan Clarke, who has Nature Reserves, (the two are not mutually incompatible though). So, we think that the written several articles which have been published in the membership supports us if we decide to purchase more land if it’s available and fits in SIdmouth Herald about the many grants we have given out and with these criteria. Some 70% of those responding felt that SVA land should be open to provided some fantastic pictures alongside. Alan has taken on all users; 47% of responders though felt that there should be some restrictions on usage, extra promotional work to make sure even more community with concern about dogs being a major consideration. groups that could benefit from the Fund get to hear about it. Museum Alan, Richard Thurlow and I have all done talks in the valley Members were asked if they might ever use the Museum Achieves. Nearly 25% said that recently focusing on the Keith Owen Fund and we are keen to they might. do more if requested. Events Thanks also to Richard and John Dowell for both producing the Members were asked if they would like to see more Events organised by the SVA. Just new leaflet, updated and reprinted and for creating a new over half of responses said that they did not see the need for more. design for plaques to record grants awarded. We look forward The Future to seeing these appearing around the valley as new projects are completed. There was no clearly defined consensus of views on what we should be doing in future, As always, we encourage local groups to apply for a grant if they have a suitable project or areas where Members thought that we should pursue. We took members views into in mind, and we welcome a phone call or email beforehand to make sure everyone has account when preparing our Forward Plans in 2019. the information they need to make their application straightforward and successful. Volunteers Kate Tobin, Chairman, Keith Owen Fund grants committee A number of people said that they were interested in volunteering, and we contacted them to see whether they can help in the running of the SVA. Several people did so. Drill Hall Results of the Questionnaire Of the 540 returned questionnaires, just over 50% had no view on its future, whilst the In the summer 2018 magazine, we enclosed a questionnaire which we asked members to remainder were split almost evenly between those who wanted to refurbish it and those complete and return. We did this to try to understand members’ views on a number of who wanted to demolish it. A number of responses thought that whatever happened, topics and to give us their view on how the SVA should develop in the future. In late use by young people would be a desirable outcome 2018, we started preparing “Forward Plans” for all our activities and members’ views Richard Thurlow were important for this. We sent out 1,300 envelopes, all of which included a form for members to update their details (particularly their email address and consent to use their details in membership activities), a Questionnaire, and a stamped addressed envelope in Blue Plaques, Conservation and Planning Committee which to return both items. We received 730 returns (56%) by the end of August; a few more arrived later. This and the Museum (joint action) return percentage is slightly disappointing as we had hoped for a much larger number of SVA members will know that research, writing and organisational work has been ongoing returns, bearing in mind that members did not have to pay postage. Nevertheless, we on the “Blue Plaques” scheme since 2017. A group – Julia Creeke, Nigel Hyman, Andrew were able to update many members’ details and the new email addresses will enable us Rugg-Gunn, John McCarthy, Kelvin Dent, (Sidmouth Town Council) and Richard Thurlow – to contact many more than before about SVA matters. Many of the returns did not was formed in late 2017 to identify locations worthy of new plaques and to implement include the questionnaire; only 543, (42% of the total sent out) were received. This again their installation and also review the existing plaques. is disappointing, this means that 190 people did not bother to reply. We have reviewed Work on the scheme intensified in 2018, and is now reaching a successful conclusion. these to try to find out what members think. These are the results: There will be 29 new plaques and the 35 existing plaques are being renewed and the text Value for Money and Communications revised where necessary. The writing of the text for the plaques, and the accompanying There were very few who were dissatisfied with our performance; about 99.9% thought new ‘Blue Plaques book and the ‘Walking Guide’, have taken considerable research and that we are doing a good job, (much better results than in many dictatorships!) time, as have the applications for Listed Building Consent and negotiations with building Land owners. Of the 543 responses, some 90% thought that we should buy more land. The reasons for Richard Thurlow purchasing were 50% in order to stop developments and 50% mentioning the creation of
16 17 SVA Excursion – Wednesday 10th July 2019 We start our day at The Haynes Remembering the Sid Vale International Motor Museum located For 173 years, since 1846, Sidmouth and the Sid Vale have been protected and near Sparkford in Somerset. We will have nurtured by members and volunteers who have given their time, skills and money a private escorted tour of the Museum. to ensure the Vale remains a leading destination for visitors as well as a beautiful In 1954 whilst still at Boarding School a place to live. 16 year old John H Haynes bought a worn- out Austin 7 and set about building his The income from subscriptions and investments is, however, insufficient to fund own Austin ‘750 Special’. He went on to those regular core activities. In addition, we are occasionally faced with exceptional publish 430 Car and Motor Cycle Manuals, circumstances for which there is no general provision. For example, the Museum is and Manuals for other things! an old, listed building and has needed significant repairs and improvement in 2018. Established in 1985, the Haynes We are very grateful, therefore, to those who, year after year, make one-off International Motor Museum is an donations and remember the magical Sid Vale through their Wills. Such bequests Educational Charitable Trust. The Museum can be general or they can be for specific purposes such as the maintenance of our has the UK’s largest collection of cars from green spaces or the development of the Sidmouth Museum. around the world with over 400 amazing We are extremely grateful for bequests received since the last AGM from: former cars and motorbikes from the the late Museum volunteer Alan Hunt, who left £2,500 for the Museum, Patrick Stubbs who 1800s through to the nostalgic classics of left £500, and Runo Ravander, who left £62,970. the 1950s and 1960s, glorious Bentleys Ed Harrison recalls Runo Ravander and his wife Pamela. Runo left a generous and Rolls Royces and world renowned bequest to The SVA for which we are very grateful. super cars like the Jaguar XJ220. A light lunch can be purchased at the Runo and his then fiancee, visited Sidmouth in the early 1970s and instantly fell in Museum in the Cafe 750, or please bring a love with the area. They were married in the town in April 1975 and subsequently packed lunch. set up home in Kestell Road. Pamela worked for a local estate agent and Runo For the afternoon we visit Mapperton House and Gardens near Beaminster. became involved with the early development of information technology. Whilst Mapperton House was entered in the Domesday Book 1086 as Malperetone. It has working for the estate agent, the company, along with other firms, promoted a been the home of the Earl and Countess of Sandwich. The Sandwich Art collection unique hilltop development of individual villas near Mojacar in the Costa Blanca in includes pictures by Lely, Van de Velde the Younger, Scott, Reynolds and Hogarth. Spain. Runo, who was Swedish, was particularly attracted to spending winter in the The 4th Earl of Sandwich is credited with putting roast beef between two slices of sun. Together they purchased a bespoke villa with a swimming pool and spent bread! He was responsible for reorganising the navy in the late 18th Century and many happy winters there but returned to Sidmouth each summer. They improving the ships to the point they withstood France’s aggressive navy under Napoleon. subsequently moved to a flat above The Fort Cafe and finally to Powys. Pamela Mapperton Gardens is one of the most important and distinctive gardens in the country. predeceased Runo by a few years. Registered Grade II*, it is among a handful of the top gardens in the south west. Its gardens Any bequest, large or small, is valued by the Association (which is a registered are famous for charity no.1154749). We remain deeply grateful for the thoughtfulness and their romantic generosity of past supporters, and for all who make provision for our future setting, their endeavours. Please continue to remember the Sid Vale Association. varied planting Gary Turner, Treasurer and their sense of tranquillity. We shall have SVA Magazine our Cream Tea at The deadline for entries for the Summer edition is Friday 17th May. Articles should be up Mapperton to 800 words and an accompanying photograph or illustration would be most welcome. House. Please email your articles to Val Huntington. [email protected] (Continued overleaf)
Mapperton House and Gardens 18 SVA Excursion to the Haynes Motor Museum, Mapperton House and Gardens and Cream Tea: Wednesday 10th July 2019 (Continued from overleaf) This tour will be escorted by Stephen Pemberton. l Tour includes : Haynes Motor Museum entrance and private tour, Mapperton House tour and entrance to Gardens , Cream Tea, Drivers Gratuity. Cost £32 per person. l Booking Form : Please send to Stephen Pemberton, 7 Glenisla Terrace, Sidmouth, EX10 8BP Tel. 07810 496566 Email: [email protected] l Bookings : Will be confirmed from 1st June and remain open until filled. l Payment : Please make cheques payable to “SID VALE ASSOCIATION CIO.” l Envelope : Please enclose s.a.e. postage paid, to receive tickets. GOLDEN JUBILEE COPSE l Limitation : Tickets cannot be ‘reserved’. Tickets can be refunded if re-sold. The Golden Jubilee Copse is a most attractive circular plantation of trees and shrubs in Margaret’s Meadow, a large field owned and maintained by the Sid Vale Association. It is We regret that the Association cannot accept responsibility for any loss, damage or injury that may be suffered by anyone taking part in this event. located towards the northern end of the Byes riverside walk. It is fully accessible and set within a maintained short grass area. Coach to Haynes Motor Museum and Mapperton House and Gardens Wednesday 10th July 2019 It was laid out and planted in the winter of 2002/3 in celebration of the 50th Anniversary ! ...... of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession. Please supply ...... ticket(s) at £32 per person To acknowledge this Golden Anniversary milestone, the species and varieties selected PLEASE 3 BOX Joining at The Triangle 8.30am o Radway 8.35am* o were chosen for their gold and yellow foliage through the seasons. *Approx. timings Exeter X 8.40am* o Green Close 8.45am* o The circular planting scheme is arranged in four quadrants, with an open central area. Each quadrant contains a mixture of matrix trees, (coloured yellow on the plan), to give 1...... form and structure, specimen trees (green), and shrubs (white), for underplanting. The TITLE FIRST NAME SURNAME OF EACH PERSON BOOKING majority of the trees will grow to medium height (20 metres approximately) in maturity. 2...... The open centre has a planting of two fastigiate (columnar) beech at its hub. Daffodils provide early spring colour within parts of the perimeter. 3...... The quadrants are separated by grass “avenues” and are on a North/South/East/West Address ...... axis, with the northward view across the meadow to the field gate and ancient beech tree at the entrance to Gilchrist Field...... The Copse is enclosed by ranch-style fencing, with a short access track off the main Byes footpath to a kissing gate on the West side, and also by another gate on the East side, *E-mail ...... Post Code ...... *Will not be disclosed to third parties. and a stile to the north into the meadow. CONTACT TEL. NO. OF PERSON BOOKING ...... Three benches have been placed within the copse to provide a restful, contemplative and Have you enclosed a stamped, self-addressed envelope? Yes/No dog-free environment, and the grass is regularly mowed in the growing season.
21 AESCULUS “Honiton Gold” (Horse Chestnut) (D) Bright yellow-green foliage. Leaf miner moth grubs can turn the leaves brown in summer, for which there is no effective control. A slow- growing variety. ALNUS incana “Aurea” (“Grey Alder”) (E) An attractive moisture-loving, slow growing small tree. Young shoots and foliage yellow, turning to pale green in summer. Orange-red tinted catkins appear in spring. BETULA pendula “Golden Beauty” (Birch) (F) Spring foliage is a soft yellow-green, turning to butter yellow in autumn. Note the variations in height of the four specimens in the copse, no doubt due to slight differences in aspect. CEDRUS deodara “Aurea” (“Golden Deodar”) (G) A beautiful evergreen, with drooping shoot tips. Young leaves are needle-like in whorls, golden yellow when young, turning greener as summer progresses. CORYLUS avellana “Aurea” (Hazel) (H) A small tree with bright yellow young leaves, turning green in summer. CORNUS mas “Aurea” (“Cornelian Cherry”) (I) A large shrub or small tree with many small yellow flowers in late winter. The soft yellow leaves in spring turn to green by summer, followed with red autumn tints. Bright red cherry-like fruits are also produced in late summer. FAGUS sylvatica “Dawyck Gold” (Beech) (J) A fastigiate (columnar) tree with gold spring foliage gradually turning green in summer. Unfortunately, only two of the original four specimens now survive in the centre of the copse. FRAXINUS excelsior “Jaspidea” (“Golden Ash”) (K) The yellowish winter shoots of this tree, of which there are around twenty in the copse, give structure and APHABETICAL LIST OF TREES winter colour effect. The young leaves (Letters in brackets cross-refer to the planting plan) are also yellow, turning to green, and then yellow again in autumn. ACER cappadocicum “Aureum” (A) An elegant tree with horizontal spreading branches. METASEQUOIA glyptostroboides Reddish young leaves turn to gold yellow in autumn. “Goldrush” (Dawn Redwood”) (L) A ACER pseudoplatanus “Worleei” (“Golden Sycamore”) (B) Soft gold young leaves with deciduous conifer, originally from China, red leaf stalks turn green in summer. and not discovered alive until 1941. This ACER saccharinum “Lutescens” (“Silver Maple”) (C) A fast-growing North American variety has yellowish green shoots, and species. The yellow-green leaves with silvery undersides are deeply cut into five lobes. is much slower growing than the species. Good yellow autumn colour.
22 23 PICEA orientalis “Aurea” (Oriental Spruce) sid vale association (M) An evergreen conifer with yellow Membership Application Form young shoots, turning green. Needles are Please send completed form, with payment if short and set singly around the shoots. applicable, to The Membership Secretary (SVA) Attractive pinkish-red male flowers in 67 Malden Road, Sidmouth EX10 9LZ spring, followed by long green cones. past • present • future PSEUDOLARIX amabilis (Golden Larch) (N) A monoecious deciduous conifer from I/We wish to become Member(s) of the Sid Vale Association China. A beautiful slow-growing tree, with leaves in rosettes on short shoots turning Title Surname (BLOCK LETTERS please) golden yellow in autumn. First name(s) 1 SALIX alba “Aurea” (White Willow) (P) Fast growing small tree with yellowish shoots and young leaves. Catkins in spring. Second member TILIA platyphyllos “Aurea” (Broad-leaved lime) (Q) This tree has conspicuous yellow Address young shoots, turning to olive green in summer. Flowers in June. ULMUS glabra “Lutescens” (Wych Elm) (R) This elm species is resistant to Dutch Elm disease. Tiny red clusters of flowers are produced in early spring, followed by prominent Post Code Phone winged fruits and soft yellow leaves. E-Mail Address QUERCUS sp. (Oak) (S) Probably English Oak (Q. robur) EITHER I/We enclose my/our Annual/Life Membership subscription of £ Please delete as appropriate and make cheques payable to The Sid Vale Association SHRUBS 3 CORNUS stolonifera “Flaviramea” (T) A North American shrub, growing well in wet soils, OR I/We have completed the standing order mandate opposite (Please ) when it suckers and layers freely. Yellow-olive young shoots. GIFT AID SCHEME HAMAMELIS mollis (Chinese Witch Hazel) (U) The main attraction of this large shrub are the scented golden-yellow flowers in mid to late winter. The leaves turn yellow in I wish to make payments under the Gift Aid Scheme. I want the Charity to treat as Gift Aid autumn. ALL donations and subscriptions I make to the Association, from the date of this ILEX altaclarensis “Belgica Aurea” (Holly) (V) This vigorous evergreen large shrub or small declaration, until I notify you otherwise. I confirm that I pay an annual amount of Income tree has irregular gold margins to the leaves, which are not very spiny. ( Note: there are Tax which is not less than the amount of tax which may be redeemed by the Sid Vale other holly varieties in the copse as yet unidentified with any confidence ) (Vs). Association. SALIX alba “Hutchinson’s Yellow” (White Signature Date Willow) (W) Narrow pointed leaves, The Sid Vale Association is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registration number 1154749 yellow when young. The specimens here have been “stooled” to encourage plenty SUBSCRIPTION RATES Outside the Sid Valley Within the of golden yellow shoots. Spring catkins. including postage Sid Valley By cheque or cash – or cheaper by SALIX acutifolia (X) A large shrub or small Cheque/ Standing Cheque/ Standing cash order cash order tree with purplish shoots and narrow standing order! leaves. Silvery catkins with golden anthers ANNUAL MEMBER an individual £12 £10 £10 £8 are produced in early spring, before the 2 at same address £18 £16 £16 £14 leaves. LIFE MEMBER an individual £120 - £100 - Charles Berry 2 at same address £180 - £160 -
Area Date Receipt Memb.Card WG NMM GA 24 225 5 Help us – and make new friends at the same time! Woodlands and Estates Thank you for joining the SVA. Your membership is greatly appreciated. Another unusual year for weather with a long dry summer. This has meant less grass to If you would like to become more involved or know more about all the work we do, there be cut and more people visiting our areas to bask in the sun. are many areas where we need help, whether it be on a regular basis or just a few hours, It has therefore been a quiet year for maintenance with grass cutting reduced and email [email protected] or 3 any of the following and your interest will be manpower has turned to reduction of bramble, which has been encroaching on the open passed on for you. spaces. Gilchrist Pond is receiving extra attention with a plan to turn it into a more Membership o Local delivery of magazines to members wildlife friendly area. This will mean possible dog access restrictions and clearance of some of the bramble. The island is being cleared and more suitable planting will take Museum o Stewards o Archivists place on it. The duckweed will also be cleared and hopefully kept at bay. Some more tree o o Website Updating of content Technical management cutting will take place to increase the light, reduce the amount of leaves collecting in it River/Woodlands and Estates o ‘Hands-on’ managing grass, hedging, trees, wild-life and improve the chances of what water we have staying healthy. Conservation and Planning Team o Monitoring planning applications Once again we received an award for the Golden Copse from Sidmouth in Bloom and to mark this, Charles Berry, one of our volunteers, has produced a guide to the Copse which Privacy Policy accompanies this AGM report. The Sid Vale Association will only collect and use your personal information which is needed in order for us to provide you with the benefits of membership. We collect this information to enable Peaslands Knapp continues to improve as a wild flower area and is a great success. us to send you magazines, annual reports and email reminders about walks/talks/special events. Soldiers Hill Field still suffers from dog walkers who continue to trespass on it and use it You have the right to unsubscribe from communications at any time by contacting us via as a dog exercising area. It is still proving exceedingly difficult to get people to keep to the [email protected] public, permitted path and a sign campaign will be taking place in 2019 to remind people More information about the SVA’s Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy is available on the website. By that it is leased out to a farmer for agricultural purposes. He is taking the grass for a crop. signing this form, you agree to the SVA using this information. The dogs mess left behind by walkers is polluting the crop and making it unsaleable. It is also hoped that by cropping the field in the right way, we can encourage skylarks to use it. This might prove too ambitious, but nothing ventured nothing gained. If anyone has STANDING ORDER MANDATE experience of this, please contact me. To The Manager Bank As a result of the dry weather, the badgers decided that Soldiers Hill Branch Address was a good source of worms and Post Code dug it up. This will have a bad effect on the potential grass from the field Please set up the following Standing Order from my/our account: this year. Name(s) of account Combe Head Wood is still in Sort Code – – Account Number transition to a Hazel Wood with high hopes of encouraging the Hazel Recipient Sid Vale Association CIO Dormouse. The bracken is Recipient’s Bank CAF Bank (Charities Aid Foundation) continuing to prove tough to beat. 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent, ME19 4JQ Badger damage on Soldiers Hill The usual gamut of wildlife has Sort Code 40 – 52 – 40 Account Number 00016416 been seen, with deer, a huge range Please pay the sum of £ First payment date of butterflies, glow worms, slow worms, foxes, badgers, owls, falcons, kestrels, buzzards, And annually thereafter until further notice green and greater spotted woodpeckers, nuthatches, long tailed tits, thrushes, blackcaps, the list is endless. However I have not seen an adder since 2003. Most noticeable this Quoting SVA reference (please leave blank for SVA use) year has been the virtual disappearance of rabbits from the area caused by a virus that has affected them. Being rabbits they will no doubt bounce back soon. Signature Date
226 6 27 We are still looking for volunteers pipes were installed and on a Saturday morning and if you fancy a couple of hours 70 tons of asphalt road planings were delivered exercise then there is the Peaslands and together with the contractor the team Knapp team on Saturdays and the levelled this out with rakes. There is still more Margarets Meadow team on Monday work to do in the area to construct a raised path mornings. Just email to get past the remaining wet area. [email protected] Unfortunately in the last two weeks an for more information. enormous beech tree, which is so large it will Richard Huntington need a specialised contractor to remove it, has fallen across the path. It has been reported to the County Council who will organise the work. The Sid Valley Ring Footpaths and Bridleways It has been quite widely reported that the SVA, together with Sidmouth Town Council, As previously reported, the process of maintaining the footpaths and bridleways in the with input from the Chamber of Commerce, are promoting a footpath route around the Sid Valley is ongoing. The last surveyors’ reports identified 56 issues on paths, of which parish named “The Sid Valley Ring”, being about 13 miles in total length. With the help of 22 have been rectified, but of course the cutting back and clearing of overgrowth Mr and Mrs Lott who trialled the route I spent some time surveying each path to pinpoint continues. This year we are making a special effort to identify those paths which seem to by co-ordinates the location for the new waymarkers and fingerposts to identify the need regular if not more than frequent clearing, to see what measures we can take to route. This work is on going and I am currently working with Richard Thurlow to finalise reduce the number of visits. The range of work is always varied and needs to be carefully the route and waymarkers required. monitored so the team undertakes the most necessary and urgent tasks. The Walking Festival will be 21st to 27th September 2019 and its organisation is almost Last October I arranged a get together at Sidmouth Sailing Club for the four groups who finished with the programme yet to be printed. The team, who are all members of the make up the team which input into the process. This included County Council staff Ros Ramblers Association, have worked very hard to put together what will be I am sure Davies and Richard Spurway who have overall responsibility for “Public Rights of Way” in another successful festival. The Sid Valley Ring is included as a guided single walk and this area, the P3 Committee chaired by Sidmouth Town Councillor Jeff Turner, the survey also as two separate walks starting in Sidbury, one going west the other east. teams who undertake the path inspections and report back to me so I can include their The work team will over the summer install the waymarkers and fingerposts and repair findings in the 2019 work programme, and last but certainly not least the working party any gates and stiles ready for the Sid Valley Ring to be formally launched. led by Ian Collins. This year I decided to divide the Parish into 13 areas making it more The work continues. even in terms of the distance for each group to walk, also I supplied the teams with tools Phil Bradbury – SVA Footpaths – P3 Coordinator and waymarker discs so these could be replaced as necessary on their surveys, which proved to be a success. The evening was opened with a presentation and handouts by the County Council on the requirements and responsibilities for maintaining paths and the work party supplied a collection of photographs – a good informative evening. We have had as usual a busy year with much work completed. The most testing must have been that carried out in the Bulverton area –a very wet footpath and bridleway with sticky clay and water pooling. With the help of a local contractor large
28 29 We were not sure how the public would react to this type of exhibition but with over 700 people attending, we were pleasantly surprised and at times almost overwhelmed. People from all over the country witnessed not only the flood photographs but also were able to see the Environment Agency’s flood maps and weather charts. Roger Trend was on hand to sign his book entitled Sidmouth’s River which sold well over the two day event. Fish Rescue – failed for second year. Sadly again because of very high flows in the River Sid at School Weir, at the southern end of the Byes, the rescue had to be abandoned. The rescue is timed for when the fish are trying to return up river – often to sporn, and the bad weather for a second year means that fish stock in the upper reaches of the river is reduced. Peter Brookes – River Warden [email protected]
The East Devon Floods Exhibition
River Warden’s Report Conservation and Planning 50th Anniversary of East Devon Floods Exhibition 2018 proved to be a busy year for the Committee. As well as the usual run of planning The Sid Vale Association decided to stage a two day “Floods” Exhibition at Kennaway applications to comment on, we also responded to several local authority initiatives which House on the 7th and 8th July 2018, to mark the 50th anniversary of one of the worst were issued for public consultation. natural disasters to strike East Devon. Planning Applications On Wednesday 10 July 1968 a major summer storm affected a large part of East Devon, We commented on a number of planning applications in the Sid Valley; these ranged from 1 creating one of the worst flooding events the town has witnessed. Some 65mm (2 ⁄2 building extensions to more major works having more effect on the landscape and inches) of rain fell in a very short period late in the afternoon. An even larger amount of environment. rain was recorded further inland where Honiton suffered 100mm (4") and even this was Neighbourhood Plan surpassed by the amount recorded in the Blackdown Hills. The bridges over the River The Neighbourhood Plan, long in preparation (started in March 2016), was issued by Otter at Fenny Bridges and Tipton St John were washed away – the latter falling Sidmouth Town Council for public comment in February 2018. This plan is a much more spectacularly at 1am the following morning. localised version of the Local Plan for the whole of the EDDC area, and it relates to the The whole of the River Sid catchment was affected with water levels being recorded to a Sidmouth TC area only. It cannot change or negate Policies and Strategies in the Local Plan, depth of 3ft 9inches in cottages in Sidbury where an 86 year old lady was drowned in the but can, if the public so decides, define more detailed policies which any development front room of her cottage. The Salty Monk at Sidford (then called Applegarth) was should adhere to. We spent a considerable time reviewing this and made a large number of flooded to a depth of 5ft, and the Sidmouth town recorded over 100 properties being comments. At the time of writing, (March 2019) a revised version, (the Submission version), flooded. The river in the Byes flooded the entire width of the valley. Fortunately the rain has been issued by EDDC for comment before it is sent to an Inspector who will examine ceased by 9pm – an hour after high tide, and by 10.50pm the sky was clear and the moon the validity of the Plan. was visible! Teams of volunteers turned out to help in the clean up operation which took Sidford Employment Site several days and was a great tribute to all concerned. We continue to comment on planning applications for the Sidford Employment site. As SVA To try to quantify the flood event in 1968, it was estimated that at the Mill Street ford, a members may recall the Local Plan allowed the principle of an Employment site at Sidford volume of 115 cubic metres of flood water was passing every second: or by weight, 115 despite overwhelming public opposition. Fords first planning application for the site was tonnes/second. rejected, and they applied again in 2018. We again objected most strongly to the A large number of Sidmouthians were able to recognise friends and family in the 50 year application on traffic grounds. This second application was also rejected by EDDC. Fords old photographs which also evoked many emotional memories. have now appealed against the decision, and we will continue our opposition.
30 31 Drill Hall everybody who volunteers for the SVA. It was held at All Saints church hall and very well East Devon District Council gave notice in mid-2018, that they intended to seek tenders for attended. It gave us an opportunity to meet our many volunteers and say a big thank you. the Drill Hall and its site. The tender return date was in February 2019. The Conservation We now have an updated powerpoint presentation for the SVA and also KOF which can and Planning Committee recommended that the SVA management Committee issue the be taken to local groups for talks. following statement, which they did. Val Huntington The SVA continues to be in favour of a wholescale plan that develops the Port Royal area in its entirety. In the absence of such a way forward and of any other proposals regarding the Drill Hall site, the SVA favours the refurbishment of the Drill Hall and prefers its retention for primarily community use. The SVA will continue to monitor the situation closely. As SVA members will know, EDDC have recently accepted a tender by a restaurant chain, which as far as we understand refurbishes the Hall. Further details will become clearer as 2019 progresses. Richard Thurlow
Publicity Publicity falls into two categories: SVA Volunteers Publicising the SVA to the general public. Christmas Party We attended Sea Fest, Sid Vale Horticultural show, Science Festival and the Arboretum evening. This gives us an opportunity to inform the public about the work of the SVA and encourage membership. Our gazebo which was purchased last year has proved to be very useful at events such as Sea Fest to enable us to promote the SVA. New display boards were purchased. Colin the crab competition has been used for children’s quizzes and will be making an appearance again throughout this year. Publicity to our members We now have a database of members emails harvested from the questionnaire sent out last summer. (See membership report for GDPR regulations). We can inform you of events such as walks, talks etc rather than relying on the diary page at the back of each magazine and posters around town. If you are not receiving emails, please contact us Two noticeboards have now been erected in Soldier’s Hill Field – thanks to the Monday morning team. We held a very successful event for members, in the summer, to come and see the headquarters in Fore Street. The gazebo was erected on the terrace and cream teas served which proved very popular. Another event was held in November aimed at new members as well as welcoming current members to come and meet the team and discuss volunteering opportunities. Some old maps of Sidmouth were on display which created a lot of interest as was the picture collection and archives on the top floor which was open for members to view. It is planned to have more of these events with an emphasis on specific areas of the museum archives. The next open afternoon will be on Wednesday 4th September 2.30-6.00pm In December we decided to extend the museum stewards thank you lunch to include
32 33 Publications Museum Collection and is used extensively by Museum volunteers. During 2018 we improved the kitchen facilities. Following on from his popular book Sidmouth Rocks , Roger Trend The Museum has been at Hope Cottage since 1971. It became apparent in 2018 that time produced two new books for us in 2018. and the weather had taken its toll on the exterior fabric. A decision was made to erect Sidmouth’s River Storms, floods, droughts, landslides and river scaffold in September for the purpose of re-decoration and inspection to determine the blockages are not new to Sidmouth: records go back for centuries. extent of repair required. Much of the woodwork at high level needed attention as well as the What causes these natural events? Will they become more extreme roof. Upper sections of the wall facing the churchyard had to be repaired and replastered or frequent in the future? What can we learn about them by looking together with a section of the rear wall. A flat roof at the rear was re-covered, with sundry at the landscape around us? Roger Trend’s new book Sidmouth’s other repairs, followed by external redecoration. The end result was a much improved River tells the story of the River Sid. appearance and a building free of leaks! At the end of the year work began on the Sidmouth’s Coast Collapsing cliffs, refurbishment of the former first floor office to enable it to be incorporated into the display disappearing beaches and flooding coasts are not new to area. Sidmouth: records go back centuries, but questions remain. What Ed Harrison causes these events, how old are they, how can we manage them and will they become more frequent in the future? Do we want to prevent cliff collapse and beach removal, or should we let nature run its course? And are there any unintended effects of recent SVA Excursions engineering works, such as the rock islands and groynes? Roger Our 2018 Excursions were to: Fursdon House Trend’s latest book Sidmouth’s Coast tells the story of the River Sid. • Wyke Farm and Minterne House Several new publications are in the pipeline for 2019, including Stephen Reynolds – Author, • Fursdon House and Gants Mill Fisherman and Home Front Hero . Reynolds made the transition from a middle class science • Padstow and Pencarrow House and graduate to a skilful inshore fisherman. He was the author of a highly acclaimed book, Gardens A Poor Man’s House . In the Great War he had the enormous responsibility of coordinating All were well attended and enjoyed by inshore fisheries in the south west and, at the same time, his radical ideas were credited everybody. SVA Excursions aim to provide with helping maintain the fisheries nationwide. Also nearing publication is a timely revision interesting and varied social, historical of the iconic guide to Sidmouth’s Blue Plaques – Life and Times in Sidmouth featuring 29 and educational visits for SVA members. It new plaques and their fascinating stories, bringing the total to 64. is clear that those who attend the Remember that you can buy these publications, and more, from the online shop on the excursions enjoy them – please join us! SVA website, www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk as well as from the Museum. Members have been very helpful in providing ideas for Excursions for 2019, and beyond. We are always interested in suggestions for publications, so if you have a project you would Excursions for 2019 are: (please put the dates in your diaries!) like us to consider, please email [email protected] with your ideas. • May 15th 2019 – Abbotsbury Swannery and Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens John Dowell • July 10th 2019 – Haynes Motor Museum and Mapperton House and Gardens. (Bookings FROM 1st June) • September 11th 2019 – Athelhampton House and Gardens and Langham Estate Vineyard with Wine Tastings (please bring sturdy footwear!) Buildings and Property (Bookings FROM 1st August) The SVA are responsible for the repair and maintenance of two listed buildings in the town Excursion ticket costs had been retained at £29.95pp for 2018 and for the first Excursion centre. in 2019. For the second and third Excursions in 2019 this will now need to be slightly Three years ago we purchased a long leasehold interest in about half of the upper floors of increased. The aim is to break even, or to make a small profit for the SVA. Trumps Stores in Fore Street. Following the complete refurbishment of the derelict property, Look forward to seeing you on an Excursion, or two, in 2019! we took occupation of the suite of offices and stores. We soon established ourselves on the first floor, which is now the headquarters of the SVA. The upper floor now houses the Stephen Pemberton
34 35 SVA Local History Group The Knowle 1889 The group met every two months, on the second Monday of the month. Attendance varied between 6 and 12, with 26 attending at least once. Following introduction of the GDPR, the mailing list was culled and now has 26 members receiving meeting invitations and reports. The group is affiliated to the Devon History Society. Meetings typically consist of reports on activities by members, to which anyone with an interest joins in. The group holds, or has access to, a wide variety of local history resources, held by the museum, by members, or available on the internet. These include directories, the local newspaper archive, censuses, local histories, burial records and photographs. Early in 2019, a visit to the Devon and Exeter Institution led to scans being obtained of the Exeter newspaper reports of the Duke of Kent’s death in Sidmouth in 1820. Several members brought photographs to meetings, which have now been scanned for the museum archive and so are available for research. Ian Simpson completed his work on the inscriptions in the town cemetery in Temple Winslade Road, who worked for the Manor, and built the houses on the raised walkway Street, adding biographical information from directories, censuses and the newspaper in Winslade Road. Brian mentioned covers on Salcombe Hill that came from the Iron archive. His index is deposited in the museum. Foundry in Mill Street. Jeremy continued to progress the group’s proposals for the Local List. In January, he co- Mary brought a previously unknown photo of the Knowle from 1889, taken during the ordinated a History Group response to EDDC’s draft Heritage Strategy. It was felt that its period between it being opened as a hotel in 1882 and the complete rebuilding of the aims were good but that the plans for achieving them were weak, especially in defining south wing in 1895. In the photo, the layout of Thornton’s Knowle is still very evident. how community engagement, would work. Janet invited the group to consider the need Brian introduced the Rev’d Woolcombe, vicar of Sidmouth Parish Church from 1913-38, to preserve intangible as well as tangible assets. who started the parish magazine, which is a great source of information both on the In March, Brian Denham from Colyton History Society was welcomed and gave a very church and the first world war in Sidmouth. In 1918, he became an army chaplain and interesting talk about the development of electricity supply to Sidmouth, starting with sent a fascinating analysis of relationships among the officers and men at his camp. After the Gilkes turbine used by the Town Mill in 1920. the war, he was heavily involved in the new Vicarage Road school and St Francis’ church In May, Mary opened the meeting with an illustrated presentation on Abernethy House, at Woolbrook, as well as a new choir vestry and refurbishment of the chancel at the then the subject of a Planning Application. The original frontage was believed to be plain Parish Church. Georgian. Dr Pullen introduced bay windows on the first and second floors when he lived In September, Nigel told the story of Sir Henry Digby who bought Woodlands Cottage there. By 1918, the property had become a bank with a new ground floor frontage across (now Hotel) on the death of Lord Gwydir in 1819. His success at taking prize ships while the entire width. In 1976 new owners obtained planning permission to revert to the early in the Navy had made him a very wealthy man. At Trafalgar, he commanded the old, 20th Century frontage left by Dr Pullen. This was hailed as a great piece of restoration at small HMS Africa. Contrary to orders he engaged his ship in the centre of the battle, the time. The current work will reinstate the later 1918 frontage. weaving between enemy ships, delivering broadsides. At one point he even put a In July, Nigel talked about women’s suffrage in Sidmouth. He started by noting that there boarding party on the Spanish flagship. were active suffrage and anti-suffrage groups and by emphasising the distinction between Walter reported on family research. The Wagstaffs lived at Sidford Cross in a cottage on suffragists, who had advocated women’s suffrage for half a century or more, and the corner that was knocked down for road widening and to make space for a garage suffragettes, who used militant means to try to force a change. He highlighted the lives of six which has since been demolished for new houses. Sidmouth women: Annie Leigh Browne, her sister Mary Lockyer, Mary Kilgour, Ada Wright Brian reported on researches into “The Bays” in Coburg Road. The house appears in the and Dr. Sophia Friel. In the discussion it was noted that there were also prominent 1840 tithe map, but not in the 1789 manor map and the name is modern. The 1841 Sidmouthian women in the anti-suffrage group, including Mrs Clements, widow of the Rev’d census records the names of the cottages in Coburg Road as: Alpha Cottage, Haydons Clements, and Mrs Tindall, who organised the Linen League during the first world war. Cottage, Jessamine Cottages, Jubilee Cottages and Coburg Cottage. Tony introduced us to the world of inspection chamber covers, highlighting covers with In November, Nigel recounted the finding of bullets on the Eastern Beach by a dog walker. the name “T. Sisterson” on Peak Hill. Walter identified him as a builder, based in The chance presence of a visiting archaeologist when he brought them to the museum
36 37 led to their identification as Victorian, from where a little detective work in Peter Orlando Donations were £5,080.53 compared with Hutchinson’s diaries traced them to a decision of the Volunteer Artillery Corps to carry £6,828.33 in 2017. This 25% fall is out target practice on the beach near the Preventative House, rather than at the west disappointing but consistent with reductions end, during February 1861. noted in other Devon museums. We will be Brian showed a picture of two different toast-racks and asked how many there had been. using better signage and more boxes in 2019. The feeling was that there had always been just two. However, it was subsequently found The 2018 displays included local women that there were five toast-racks in all. committed to suffrage locally and nationally: Brian showed the photo of a cod bottle, believed 18th century, found in the wall of a Peak House, a 100 bed hospital with operating Sidford cottage, with the inscription C. Solman, Sid Vale Mineral Works Sidmouth. He had theatre in WW1: The Knowle Hotel history been unable to find a reference either to a Mr Solman or to the Works in any of the 19th including a recently restored painting by century directories. Sampson: The RAF in Sidmouth, in WW2: The extraordinary story of local resident General John joined the group recently and is researching the history of theatres and cinemas in Sir John Hart Dunne and the dog, Looty, given Sidmouth. The origins of cinema in the magic lantern shows of the Manor Hall, the Drill to Queen Victoria and also his role in the Hall, and then Ellis’s Cinema were explored. The interior of Fat Face still preserves foundation of the Royal British Legion: Miss Miss Barnard’s lace shop features of Ellis’s Cinema. Barnard’s lace shop, Banwell House, Old Fore In March, Nigel told the story of Edward Hughes Ball Hughes, known as “the Golden Ball” Street was reconstructed with counter and window displays: Plastic pollution on the for his immense weath, inherited from the second marriage of his grandmother, Ruth, to seabed: Restored painting of the first Alma Bridge: Duchess of Devonshire, items from Admiral Hughes. He acquired the manor of Sidmouth when Thomas Jenkins (junior) the wrecked vessel including the wheel, telegraph and ship’s bell. defaulted on loans from Ball through his wife, Ball’s sister. Ball was the model of the The Museum highlight of the Folk Festival was again SidRocks in which a musician (Anna classic Regency Buck. His extravagant lifestyle and gambling outstripped his income and Speedy) and geologist, Roger Trend, taught songs about the Red Cliffs to adults and he retired to France to avoid creditors. children, with ukuleles, in the mornings and then they all performed on the Esplanade in Jeremy reported on the finding of an underground structure during excavations in the afternoon. 30 attended (20 adults and 10 children). It was highly entertaining and Newtown. Members felt that it was too far down the hill for it to be the leet to the old instructive. mill at the junction of All Saints Road and Radway. Brian said that there were mentions of There were at least 11 bespoke tours of the Museum during the season and the charge a grist mill in the Marsh in the early 19th century, but he did not know where. (£2.50/person) mirrored the Walks charge. We thank Marion Wagstaff for her weekly Brian Golding lace demonstrations. Ann Jones, already our Treasurer, has become shop manager. Rita Bewes, to whom we are greatly indebted for all her hard work, has left and is replaced by Sharon O’Brien. There have been major changes in Collections. Administration has moved to Fore Street Museum and Deborah Robertson is Collections Manager in addition to her Paintings and Prints 2018 was overall a successful year. Despite the very hot summer, a disincentive for role. Helen Harfield is responsible for Movement Control and Ken Robertson responsible museum visits, the overall season visitor figures were 13,158 – slightly more than the for maps. Ian Simpson, Librarian, has been very busy doing a stocktake of the entire 13,005 in 2017. At the end of October we decided to extend opening, mornings only, library. Access for the general public remains an aim but it will be on a limited basis as a until December 8, a policy which will be continued. member of staff will have to supervise at all times. Many of the books as well as the The Town Walks totalled 497 compared with 428 in 2017 and, of these, 148 were ‘special’ newspaper collection are irreplaceable. Jenny Moore, who has worked in Collections rather than the West and East Walks. We now have 11 Walk Leaders and Roger Horton administration for 10 years is leaving and will be much missed. Liz Owen is taking on an has joined the team. Geology Walks were slightly down at 222 from the 241 in 2017. administrative role. Jan and Richard Barrett continue their important work in running the Thanks to all the Walk Leaders. Overall we were pleased that the new charging (£2.50 Enquiry service. but free for children and SVA members) has not deterred interest. Based at the Museum, the social history collection remains in the attic curated by Shop sales were £8,138.10, down from £11,143.38 in 2017. We will be looking at ways to Maureen Thurlow. Brendan Lee, previously in charge of social history has left this role increase sales, perhaps through the hotels. but fortunately continues as a much valued steward. Beryl McIndoe left after many years
38 39 in charge of costumes and her SVA Walks expertise will be much missed. As always, this year, we have enjoyed 12 good walks together and most were in Fortunately the transition was eased surprisingly good weather. Our leaders took us to familiar places around East Devon by Bee Barford who now curates including Peak Hill, Soldiers Hill and, of course, along the Otter River and by the sea at costumes, dolls, lace and jewellery. Budleigh. The most well supported walk, 21 people, was in Sidmouth along the Tree Trail. Colin Boynton has joined Roger Le Diana East, the founder of the Sidmouth Arboretum, kindly came with us and taught us Voir to curate geology. Bill Hayes has about the unusual trees we have in the town. recently taken on archaeology. Marian Gadian and Dorothy Slack I must thank the volunteers who led walks this year: Phil, Graham,Doug and Sheridan, supervise the Young Visitor area. Norma, Vivien, Cliff and Pam and especially Jackie and Roger who led two walks and are now taking over the organisation. Best wishes for 2019. One of the most important changes Liz Cotton to the Museum was major repair and refurbishment, probably the most The New Archaeology Room significant in the 50 years of its location at Hope Cottage. It started SVA Talks in September and included the conversion of the first floor office into a very fine new On 10th January Neil Gamble gave a noteworthy talk on the History of Sidmouth Cricket display room to show archaeology items. The ceiling and adjacent attic floor required Club . The club has been a part of the fabric of the town for well over a hundred years urgent repair. The cellar has now a much better access as well as electric lighting and will and Neil’s talk gave the audience of 102 (not out) a fascinating insight in to this story and be invaluable for storage. Deborah has arranged a print display in the corridor, adjacent some of the many characters who played, supported and ensured the club survived and to the archaeology room. is still thriving today. New displays in 2019 include: Louise Wooley’s talk (14th February) on Bats in the Sid Valley was in complete contrast to the previous month’s presentation and what an informative and very interesting talk! • Stephen Reynolds and the Woolley family (centenary of his death) It was evident that Louise had a deep knowledge of these much-maligned creatures and • Accompanying art exhibition by Laura Boyd until end of April was eager to illustrate their importance in the natural world. The sheer variety of these • Sidmouth thatching display by local thatcher, Frank Turbitt. amazing creatures was there for all to see, and Louise explained how we could use her • The previously forgotten story of Sgt Edward Bailey from Sidmouth who was killed knowledge and specialist equipment to identify bats that visit our gardens and just 5 hours before Pearl Harbour when the RAF Catalina patrol plane was shot down. neighbourhood. An audience of eighty people left with bat fever! (researched by John McCarthy) On the 10th March the Bob Symes Annual Memorial Talk, organised jointly by the NT and • Redesigned Fleming display (researched by John McCarthy) SVA, was delivered by Richard Fortey FRS FRSL on The Wood for the trees – a long view of nature from a Small Wood . Richard had done some fascinating work in his own woodland • Redesigned Lawson Wood display (arranged by Deborah Robertson) and related this work to the wider environment. It was a well-attended talk (one hundred • Colonel Balfour, last Lord of the Manor. and forty-nine) and led to some fascinating questions from members of the audience. • Three Remarkable Women: Annie Leigh Browne, Mary Lockyer, Mary Stuart Kilgour. On October 10th Prof. Iain Stewart gave an evening talk during Science Week on F ault Lines • An Egyptian Lockyer/Petrie collection. in Seismic Communications – earthquake warning in Istanbu l. An audience of 130 enjoyed a very instructive evening; this was part of another very successful Sidmouth Science Week. • Victorian Bullets found on the beach and various Hutchinson items. The final talk on the 14th November was a joint venture with the Devon Garden Trust Much of the new layout reflects the hard work of Ann Tanner. and was a morning and afternoon event. The subject was Cottages Ornés and Nigel The Museum would not function without the dedication and hard work of the stewards. Hyman (curator of Sidmouth Museum) took a large party to look at examples of those The excellent feedback on TripAdvisor reflects the warm welcome visitors receive. types of buildings in the town. This was followed in the afternoon with a talk by our guest We remain very grateful to Susan Eddisford, our mentor and Museum Development speaker Roger White, author of a book on the history of Cottages Ornés. This was a Officer, for her expert advice and constant encouragement. The Town Council kindly hugely successful event (115 attendees) and there are plans to arrange another such agreed their annual grant to support her continued involvement. event in partnership with DGT in the future. Nigel Hyman, Curator John Ridgley & Brendan Lee
40 41 Countryside Walking Group Sidmouth’s Blue Plaques My name is Jackie Stokes and along with Gary Cross we are the new coordinators of The new Guide to the Blue Plaques – Life and the SVA Countryside Walks programme. Times in Sidmouth tells the stories behind the 64 First, we would like thank Liz Cotton the previous coordinator for all her good work plaques which indicate the interesting history and dedication to the job in previous years. and heritage of this Regency seaside town –a treasure-trove of information on colourful We are aiming to increase walk attendance numbers. Walks will be published in the residents, visiting royalty, rogues, innovations, SVA magazine, on the SVA website and displayed on SVA and public noticeboards in pastimes, fashionable architecture and exotic the area and hopefully by e-mail to members, giving details for each walk. Details of gardens. Earlier editions of the the walks will be published including start location and description with grid reference I P M HN T T E I D and post code, leader details and contact numbers, walk length and brief description E guide have proved very popular L L of the walk. All walks will be of an easy or leisurely grading (EDR definitions used). and this greatly expanded and LAPA ET Q RH I HNTDEL’I Walk leaders will be made aware of SVA risk assessment policy. A record of attendees copiously illustrated version has WCDAO FCUVDA I I will be taken for each walk. We will supply First Aid kits to any leader requiring one for H details of 29 new plaques as well as revising the original stories as R B T U C E A U more information has come to light. UIITM the walk. An accident book shall be taken on every walk! We hope to attend all walks ourselves to receive any feedback and offer advice if required. To accompany the Guide to the Blue Plaques , there will be a pocket-size booklet with details of where to find the plaques. However, to make the programme a success we do require volunteer leaders for the walks. New leaders are always welcome. The design of the walks is up to the leader and we only suggest the length is between 4 and 6 miles. Anybody wishing to lead who requires a route, we can supply one for them and recce it with them if Science festival SVA talk at the Manor Pavilion required. Wednesday October 10th at 7.30pm We have a full walks programme in place for 2019. Most of the leaders are both SVA Professor Danielle George MBE from Manchester University. She gave the Royal and East Devon Ramblers (EDR) members and will provide interesting walks in the Institution Lecture in 2016 and has been on a number of TV and radio programmes. East Devon area. The title of her talk is Big Universe Big Data: how to handle the vastness. Jackie Stokes & Gary Cross We have been measuring the physical world for a long time, so what’s changed? What is all the hype about? In a word, its connectivity. We can now connect all of these disparate systems and literally instrument the entire world. The world is just beginning to recognize the enormous potential of connectivity, particularly in FREE National Trust passes the industrial technology that makes A bonus for members of the SVA is that you automatically our society work efficiently, and the become a member of Civic Voice, the national charity for the insight that we can gain from all the civic movement in England. Their mission statement is ‘We data we acquire every day. We are now make places more attractive, enjoyable and distinctive. We promote civic pride.’ using data and connecting instruments Members are eligible for a free day access pass to the National that will have a significant impact on Trust (worth up to £14). If you are already a member this can be the way we farm, fly, design cities and given to a friend or relative. To acquire your free pass please send so much more. a stamped addressed envelope to the head quarters: Civic Voice, Professor Danielle George will share some of the projects she is working on and The Coffin Works, 13-15 Fleet Street, Jewellery Quarter, how the IoT is helping to solve some of the 14 World Engineering Grand Challenges Birmingham B3 1JP. – including “Engineering Tools”.
42 43 Dates for your Diary – see website for more information Tuesday 7th May SVA Countryside Walk – A Springtime walk on the Commons Meet: 10am Aylesbeare Common Car Park (Joney’s Cross) (Grid ref. SY057 897) Leader: Graham Knapton 01395 445872. 5 miles. Tuesday 7th May Gala Concert 2.30pm Sidholme Music Room See page 2 for details Thursday 9th May 10am-3.30pm – Museum – Lace Day Demonstrations, displays and ‘Have a Go’ at lace making. Wednesday 15th May – SVA Excursion to Abbotsbury Swannery and Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Garden Saturday 18th May – Sea Fest – come and visit the SVA stand on the Ham. Wednesday 22nd May 2.30pm – Annual General Meeting – Manor Pavilion Open to all. Review of 2018 and Election of Officers. (Please bring Annual Report) Wednesday 29th May 10.30am-3.30pm – Museum – Children’s Activity Day Hobbies through the ages. Thursday 30th May 2-5pm – Salcombe Regis Fair – come and visit the SVA stand. Tuesday 4th June SVA Countryside Walk – A Morning Stroll from Colyton Meet: 10am at Colyton EDDC Car Park (£), Dolphin Street (Grid ref. SY246 940) Leader: Norma Self 01395 513974. 4 miles. Tuesday 2nd July SVA Countryside Walk – A circular walk via Gittisham, with a hill Meet: 10am at Chineway Head (Chineway Hill) (Grid ref. SY309 958), On street parking. Leader: Phil Ashby 01395 512339 4.5 miles. Wednesday 4th July – SVA Coach Excursion to Haynes Motor Museum and Mapperton House & Gardens See page 19 for details. Saturday 20th July Exhibition – Sidmouth's Cliff Erosion The Cellar, Kennaway House. Tuesday 6th August SVA Countryside Walk – Coast and River Meet: 10am at Otterton Village Green ( near King’s Arms) – Roadside parking (Grid ref. SY081 853) Leader: Naomi Lott 01395 512973 6 miles. Wednesday 7th August – Museum – Singing the rocks Geology walk with a difference. 10am Learn the songs. 2pm walk and sing along. Wednesday 14th August 10.30am-3.30pm – Museum – Red Rocks Day Special fossil, rocks and mineral displays, talks and a geology walk at 2pm. Tuesday 3rd September SVA Countryside Walk – Coast Path to the Donkey Sanctuary and back via Salcombe Regis Meet: 10am at Salcombe Hill NT Car Park (Grid ref. SY139 882) Leader: Doug Ralph 01395 577891. 5.5 miles. Wednesday 4th September 2.30-6pm – SVA HQ Open Afternoon 36a Fore Street Wednesday 12th September – SVA Coach Excursion to Padstow and Pencarrow House Tuesday 1st October SVA Countryside Walk – Railway and river to the woods Meet: 10am at Bowd lay-by (West of pub on A3052) Grid Ref: SY 104 898 Leader: Jackie Stokes. 5 miles. Tuesday 8th October 2.30pm Sidholme Music Room See page 2 for details 4-14 October Science Week including Wednesday 10th October SVA talk Manor Pavilion ‘Big Universe Big Data: how to handle the vastness’ by Professor Danielle George All dates correct at time of going to press but please check the web site for details www.sidvaleassociation.org.uk