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22

ESTUARY September 2020

What an amazing space the Matthews Hall garden is! It

hosts the al fresco Saturday morning market, customers of the Matthews Hall café, Harry’s Kitchen (pictured), our new Monday evening fi sh ‘n’ chips wagon as well as the Town Fayre dog show, sadly cancelled this year because of you know what. Can’t get much more diverse than that!

Almost hiding the doorway to the Matthews Hall caretaker’s fl at is

a glorious tribute to small space gardening. Caretaker Louise has green fi ngers a plenty and lots of

Co

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: B

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da

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aw

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gs

fromTHE EDITORS

33

ideas. Look closely into the verdant greenery and marvel how runner beans, sweetcorn, fennel, tomatoes, cabbages and more thrive in perfect harmony in this horticultural gem. Bravo Louise!

More of the great outdoors…that stunning image by Brendan Rawlings on our front cover is one of his own sculptures that make up the 30 exceptional artworks to be enjoyed on the Darts Farm Outdoor Sculpture Trail. Brilliant idea and see more on page 20.

The weather, as we Brits know only too well, plays a big part in our daily lives. Who would have thought Topsham would have basked – and perspired – in 30C heat as it did for a few days last month! As a change of weather returns us to more seasonal climes, we also have a change of weather contributor. Please welcome new columnist Alex Burkhill of the Exeter Met Offi ce who explains how fronts, pressure charts and more change our weather (see page 38). A big thank you from Estuary to Dr Keir Bovis whose detailed Topsham weather reports have graced our pages for many years.

Ferry cross the Exe: at the helm for limited periods in August was new ferryman John Kent, pictured. For those who don’t know, the ferry is managed by Exeter City Council. What the future holds for this essential service to the community is unknown at the moment but we sincerely hope that it will be back in service soon.

Another community asset, the RSPB Bowling Green Hide and Observation platform have now reopened to the general public. So too have Exminster Marshes – “lots to see and enjoy,” says Tony Taylor, Chairman of the Topsham Birdwatching and Naturalists Society (TBNS). “We’ll let you know as soon as we have any idea about restarting our meetings.” Tony can be emailed at [email protected].

An apology is due to Matt Pym, captain of St Margaret’s bell tower and his crew for dropping an editorial clanger last month. The Tony winding the clock should have read Tony Bradford, not Raven, a case of mistaken identity on our part for which we are truly sorry!

Di Trout and José Northey

4

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5

There is always a sense of turning in September, as new terms

start. Perhaps, for some, it is a new

school or college, the turning of a

page on a job, a place, a relationship

even. New beginnings all round

after the long summer.

This year we will be turning also

into autumn and winter. I am so

aware of the long journey we have

had through the pandemic to this

point and the uncertainty we face

ahead, not knowing how the regular

fl u season will affect the behaviour

of coronavirus and the ability of our

health-care systems to cope with

any surges.

I am reminded of the sojourn in

the desert of God’s people, led by

Moses towards the promised land.

The initial race across the desert

away from the pursuing Pharoah,

out of Egypt, took them within

sight of the promised land within a

month.

But as the tantalising end goal rose

before them, so did the spectre of

giants that inhabited the land. The

people of God had to turn around

and go face their fears in the

desert land once more, this time

wandering for 40 years before the

time was right.

I am not at all intimating that we

are going to be socially distancing

and observing other limitations

on our lives for 40 years. But I do

think that this story speaks into our

understandable desire for things

to be “over with already”, and the

frustration, anxiety also, at having

to deal with more uncertainty on

the horizon.

The Archdeacon of Exeter preached

well at St Margaret’s patronal holy

communion in July. He had many

wise words to share but the abiding

message was of kindness. Kindness

particularly when there is stress: to

ourselves, to one another in our

families, friends, work colleagues,

school classrooms, church and

social groups - this should be the

bedrock of all that we do, wherever

we wander, this autumn time.

Louise Grace

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8

Topsham Allotments – is Their Future Bright?

How many of you lovely people have heard of the Greater Exeter Strategic Plan (GESP)? Not too many, we suspect, and fewer still will have checked out

the details at [email protected].

This plan maps out perceived major housing and land development requirements

up to 2040 across the greater Exeter region - Exeter, East Devon, Mid Devon and

Teignbridge.

An eight-week consultation on the draft policies of this important plan was due to

start this autumn but that will not now happen. Why? We can thank – or not, as the

case may be – the decision of East Devon Cllr Eleanor Rylance (Assistant Portfolio

Holder Coast, Country and Environment), backed by Cllr Paul Arnott, leader of

the East Devon Council, to withdraw their support of GESP as it stands, believing

9

it to be deeply fl awed and “a dangerous fi ction.”

The Express and Echo reported East Devon Cllr Mike Howe as saying: “This document is a diatribe of mis-information, poor information and no options…In its current state, it does not do any good for anyone… and does not do a thing other than deliver housing in an unsustainable way that wrecks the environment.” Damning words indeed.

One particular aspect of GESP that the Topsham Allotments & Gardens Society (TAGS) want to bring to our attention is what’s called the Topsham Option Site, one of 26 areas identifi ed for development, mainly housing.

Topsham allotments, arguably a valued community resource, is in the Topsham Option Site, along with the University playing fi elds and Topsham Rugby Football Club. The details of the Topsham site can be found on pages 146 and 147 within the Draft Policies and Site Options Consultation document. Email [email protected] or TAGS – [email protected] for a copy.

Most people in Topsham are aware of the allotments at Butts Park but TAGS also manages allotments tucked away at Sunhill (pictured) and near Glasshouse Lane. All in all, it manages 129 plot holders. (Anyone thinking of taking over an allotment must apply to Exeter City Council via their website in the fi rst instance.)

Thirty-one plot holders at the Sunhill allotments share the equivalent of 16 full-size allotments. If development of the Topsham Option Site were to go forward, 1,500 houses could be built on 95 hectares running up to Sandygate, including prime agricultural land.

Permission has already been granted for 286 houses in the area, mainly on Clyst Road, which leaves over 1,200 houses to be planned for.

Amenities such as the allotments would, hopefully, be preserved – indeed planning guidance states that the equivalent of 20 full-size allotments should be made available for every 1,000 homes built. Therefore, an extra 30 full-size allotments should be provided, not 16 taken away!

When the consultation eventually takes place, TAGS hopes Topsham folk will lobby for the retention of existing allotments, with their established community and land which has been worked and improved for decades, as well as for additional ones to serve the new houses perhaps.

Few of us would deny that caring for land, however tiny the patch may be, can bring mental and physical health benefi ts and contribute usefully to our local food resources too.

The Editors

10

Q FRUIT & VEGETABLES QUIZ RThe answers to Barbara Searles’ edibles quiz are on page 51. Enjoy!

1. Hail one and it may tell you how old it is ...........................................................

2. Sounds like the start of a sentence that is the beginning of prayers in church ..............................................................................................................................

3. Did the cooking vessel eat the foot digit? ...........................................................

4. Headwear with the river that fl ows between Wales and England missing ..............................................................................................................................

5. Jack found one in the pie ....................................................................................

6. The forbidden fruit ..............................................................................................

7. Creative but had to pull this out to get the car started ......................................

8. Did Keith fi nd this whist looking around someone’s abode? ............................

9. Did the vehicle go to the scrap heap after developing this? ..............................

10. I will ring this bloom ...........................................................................................

11. Emerge from this European country without its end ........................................

12. Product of New Zealand? ....................................................................................

13. Sounds like a couple ...........................................................................................

14. Change direction and pinch sharply...................................................................

15. Tree followed by computer maker .....................................................................

16. Can be black or white ..........................................................................................

17. Redskin? ...............................................................................................................

18. May have initially been in distress but ended as a male relative .......................

19. Do this to the game to make it messy .................................................................

20. Obtain fuel from this and meet a family member ..............................................

21. Sweet as the moment they popped? ...................................................................

22. Known to be chilled? ...........................................................................................

23. Went ahead of the plant’s life support system to win ........................................

24. Sugary blemish on the foot .................................................................................

25. 26 mile vegetable? ................................................................................................

11

Word LaddersUsing the clues provided alongside each ladder, fi ll in each rung of the ladder with a new word, changing one letter at a time. Answers at bottom of page.

Owl call

Presenter

Mail

Time gone by

Nuisance

FOOT

REST

Ladder 1

Decant

Sulk

Mail

Nearly all

Flagpole

SOUR

MASH

Ladder 2

Ladder 1: Foot, Hoot, Host, Post, Past, Pest, Rest.

Ladder 2: Sour, Pour, Pout, Post, Most, Mast, Mash.

1212

Regular subscribers to Estuary will know there are 29 noble people who deliver the community magazine every month. Two of our longest

serving deliverers have recently retired and they make a remarkable story.

Jean Henderson moved to Topsham 41 years ago. She thinks she was asked to help with deliveries not long after she moved and has since been a stalwart deliverer until earlier this year.

Mary Tamlyn (pictured) has recently moved away from Topsham. She took over her mother’s round of Fore Street in 1988. It is thought her mother was one of the early deliverers in 1979/80. Mary’s mother was Mrs Winnie Weaver who moved to Topsham in 1974. Mary’s sister-in-law Meriel Tamlyn moved to Majorfi eld Road in late 1988 and she also was an Estuary deliverer for many years.

Special Deliveries

Our deliverers’ rounds range from six copies to 36 copies and cover all of Topsham, including The Chase and EX111. If you would like your copy delivered, please get in touch with the delivery organiser (see page 57) who will contact the deliverer for your area. Rachel Nichols

Where to fi nd Estuary

Although the town’s daily lifestyle is back to a kind of normality, regrettably Estuary has not yet moved back into the porch of St Margaret’s Church from where it has been distributed and sold for many years.

Until it can return to base, as it were, outlets in Topsham include the Topsham Pharmacy, Estuary League of Friends shop and Hub, the Topsham Bookshop and the Coop. We can’t thank Daniel and his team at the Coop enough for helping Estuary reach out to the community and we hope our new readers will stay with us when we call a halt to free copies, as we surely will have to in the very near future. Subscriptions (see page 57) are still only £8 for the year and delivery is included as well. The Editors

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Pat Quaife

Ill health caused Pat Quaife, organiser of the Estuary delivery team, to relinquish this role in the spring. It is with great sadness that we have to pass on the news that she has passed away. We’re sure you will join us in sending our condolences to Francis and family. The Editors

13

14

This legend was found amongst personal possessions of a loved one

on their passing and dates from over 100 years ago. Might it still

resonate with today’s brides and grooms? Let us know!

Commandment 1: Thou shalt not hide thy true feelings. Mutual love provides a bright, sunlit room where things of the heart can be discussed freely and without fear.

Commandment 2: Thou shall give the marriage room to grow. Both partners should be willing to face the future together with confi dence and trust. Today is a better day for them than yesterday and tomorrow will fi nd them closer still.

Commandment 3: Thou shall through all thy days reverence God, thy Creator, never forgetting that it is he who has made you one.

MarriageThree Commandments

15

Ferry Road stall plants sales: the fi nal total

will be around £6,000! Thank you everyone who has donated, bought plants and helped to achieve this amazing amount! It has certainly gone a long way to make up for the lost takings due to the Covid cancellation of Open Gardens and Jazz in the Garden events.

No one could have failed to enjoy the magnifi cent sunfl owers harvested from Dart’s Farm. Thank you to the Darts Farm team for once again donating all the sales proceeds to Hospiscare.

Ongoing uncertainty due to social distancing compliance has sadly led to our decision not to go ahead with our Street Collection and Open Allotments event both on Saturday 5 September, together with the Open Gardens event the next day, Sunday 6 September. Thank you to all the gardeners who have worked so hard to get their gardens ready - and the allotments (pictured) have never looked better!

William Thomas (01392 876378)

Caring in Topsham

The Lockdown Fox

After seeing a fox in Topsham one night during lockdown, Phil Keen was inspired to paint different scenes of a fox about town. This has now

developed into a charming picture book, The Lockdown Fox, written and illustrated by Phil Keen, that will appeal to both children and adults.

Phil is a valued member of the Museum’s creative team and we are delighted to support this venture. The book is published by the Museum with profi ts going towards Museum funds. A printed version is on sale for £4 from our new online shop via the Museum website www.topshammuseum.org.uk and at various places around town including 21 Victoria Road. If you would like to order a copy, please phone Rachel Nichols on 01392 877375.

New Online Shop

We are very pleased to announce our new online shop where you will be able to purchase Topsham-related gifts as well as various Topsham Museum publications. You can access the shop from the Museum website: www.topshammuseum.org.uk.

Garden Tea Parties

Over the summer mini tea parties were arranged in the Museum’s garden for our volunteers and proved a great success. Whilst ensuring social distancing and other guidance were followed, it was so good to gather in groups of six to enjoy a chat. It was also a great opportunity to meet and get to know some of our new volunteers.

16

TOPSHAM MUSEUM SOCIETY

17

Saturday Market

Once the Saturday Market was up and running again in Matthews Hall, we

decided it would be a wonderful opportunity to bring the Museum into town.

It provides a good opportunity to chat to people about the Museum whilst it

remains closed.

Free Topsham Trails booklets are available as well as selected items from the

Museum shop. We plan to have a stall a couple of times a month where a volunteer

will be sharing one or two of favourite items selected from the Museum’s

collection. Do come and say hello the next time you come to the market.

Topsham TrailsWe are really pleased to see so many people picking up this leafl et and

enjoying the trails. We have received very positive feedback from people of all

ages and it has proved very popular with families visiting over the summer.

Written and published by Topsham Museum and funded by Devon County

Council, Topsham Trails offer two walking trails of Topsham with historical

information, picture puzzles for children and an inviting pictorial map by Phil

Keen.

The box outside the Museum is where you can pick up a leafl et. Leafl ets are

also available at several outlets in the town including The Topsham Bookshop,

Rodney Spiller, Wilkinson Grant, East of Exe, Nancy Potter House and Passage

House Inn. Or download the leafl et via our website at https://topshammuseum.

org.uk.

Shelley Miller

We were very sad to hear in August that Shelley Miller had died. Shelley

supplied the Tea Room with the delicious cakes enjoyed by visitors over many

years. She helped to build the enviable reputation the Museum teas enjoy

today. Shelley was a much-loved volunteer, and a well-known and popular

member of the Topsham community.

Keeping the Spark AliveThe projects mentioned above are all part of our Keeping the Spark Alive

initiative. We are also continuing to post on our website and social media,

as well as printing information for the display box outside the Museum and

around the town.

We hope to share more exciting plans in the near future. In the meantime,

follow us on Facebook and on our website for the latest news: https://

topshammuseum.org.uk Julie Rashbrook

18

Sunday 2 August saw the club hold their fi rst internal competition,

the Open Pairs, of the season. And a good turn-out of 16 players we had too. Names were drawn at random and players grouped in pairs. Each pair were to play three matches of 10 ends and the winning pair would be the one with the most wins. If pairs were level on wins, shot difference would be the deciding factor.

Due to the safety measures currently in force for social distancing, we were only able to play on four rinks. However, this was suffi cient for all eight pairs to play at the same time.

The fi rst round of matches at 10am were played in glorious sunshine; everyone enjoyed being on the green again and playing some meaningful matches.

The second round of matches started at mid-day and, at that time, the weather began to change somewhat. Before long, we had to come off the green twice due to short sharp showers of rain. Returning to the green we only managed a further six ends before rain stopped play for the day.

It’s a real shame that we were unable to fi nish the scheduled three matches; but at least we made a start to some meaningful games again.

Lockdown Open

The second internal competition was the Lockdown Open Singles. Open to all club members, it was held under the usual rules for Singles, except 16 ends, rather than the normal 21, were to be played.

A sunny, very hot and humid morning welcomed the 16 entrants. However, by early afternoon it was decided that all the players had endured enough of the heat and play was gradually brought to a close as each match ended.

Mark Perrott beat Barry Carr to reach the fi nal while Maurice Daniel beat the other semi-fi nalist Graham Deykin. The fi nal, and any others outstanding, will be played on the last day of the outdoor season, Saturday 12 September.

96 Shots

This singles knockout competition is open to all members. Played with three woods, the fi rst player to score 96 points wins that game. A maximum of 12 points are awarded for the three closest positions to the jack i.e. six, four and two.

Standard of play was excellent and entertaining. Peter Gale took the title with a convincing win over Mark Perrott. Maurice Daniels

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20

Still time to walk the fi rst-ever outdoor sculpture trail at Darts Farm

With many shows and events cancelled this year and galleries still struggling to open, Devon artists have lost nearly all routes to market during this

pandemic. But, behind the scenes, they have kept very busy, hand-crafting new wonders of art many of which can be seen – and purchased - on the Darts Farm sculpture trail.

The trail opened mid-August and ends 13 September so there’s still time to enjoy the scenery and the art while maintaining social distancing as well. Wend your way, free trail leafl et in hand, around the iconic Farm Trail, past the Bird hide, and discover 30 incredible creations sculpted from willow, wire, driftwood and iron and more.

Michael Dart, Director of Darts Farm, commented: “Being able to support our incredible artists in this diffi cult time is such a brilliant feeling. They all share our passion for working sustainably with our environment, creating unique handmade sculptures out of natural or reclaimed materials that

Al Fresco Art Supporting Local Artists

Photo: Darts Farm

21

complement the outdoors and enrich the natural surroundings. It’s perfect for individuals, couples and families and a great way to get outside in the fresh Devon air and reconnect with nature.”

Said Sculptor Brendan Rawlings: “We’re really grateful to Darts Farm for organising this event, it’s a fantastic opportunity for the public to see our work. I’m proud to be exhibiting with such an amazing line up of artists. We really hope the

public will enjoy this unique exhibition in such a beautiful setting.”

Marvel at art made by the likes of Brendan Rawlings of Woodbury Salterton, pictured above with the Darts Farm team. He is renowned for driftwood pieces ranging from the magnifi cent mirrored Mother Swan on our cover to the rugged Highland cow pictured here.

“I love the thought of bringing discarded wood back to life,” says Brendan. “It’s hugely rewarding to collect an old piece of wood from a local beach and turn it into a beautiful statement piece for someone’s home, where it lives on.”

Of the other artists, Dominic Clare works with wood, steel and sometimes slate; Victoria Westaway with willow and wire; Jane Clift specialises in wire birds and animals; Bob Budd is a member of the art.earth ecological artists; Matt Coe, also a blacksmith and forgemaster, crafts ornamental iron work; Ama Manec favours wildlife and historical sculptures in patinated foundry bronze and stoneware ceramics. Self- taught Allan Poxton is interested in anatomy and structure, using steel and wire with welded or binding techniques.

Could this be the start of something new for Topsham? Our very own summer “art park” that might one day emulate established ones at Houghton Hall, near Kings Lynn in Norfolk, Jupiter Artland in the countryside outside Edinburgh and The Hepworth Wakefi eld Garden in Yorkshire? We have the talent…so watch this space!

José Northey

s e

SCULPTURE TRAIL

13TH AUGUST - 13TH SEPTEMBERAROUND OUR ICONIC FARM TRAIL & BIRD HIDE

~

ton tures von. and ld nd y

0

Photo: Brendan Rawlings

22

For more information call Lynne on: 01392 757850or visit: lynnecongreve.co.uk

One-to-one supportSocial media supportEncouragementMotivationMeal plans

LOSe WeIGhT aND KEEp iT oFF

23

After a few alfresco meetings the TFS committee has come up with a provisional plan to screen two fi lms in October for members.

Our fi rst screening will be Green Book, which was nominated for fi ve Oscars and went on to win three for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor and Best Screen Play.

Set in 1962 the fi lm is inspired by a true story. When Tony Lip, a bouncer from the Bronx, is hired to drive Dr Don Shirley, a world-class black pianist, on a concert tour to the Deep South, they must rely on “The Green Book” to guide them to the few establishments that were then safe for African-Americans. Confronted with racism, danger - as well as unexpected humanity and humour - they are forced to set aside differences to survive and thrive on the journey of a lifetime.

The second screening, Yesterday, is a fun musical romcom written by Richard Curtis and directed by Danny Boyle. This is a fi lm for those who still love The Beatles and all of those for whom The Beatles music was the backdrop to their lives.

Jack Malik is a struggling singer/songwriter. After a freak bus accident during a mysterious global blackout, he wakes to discover The Beatles have never existed. Performing songs by the greatest band in history to a world that has never heard them, Jack becomes an overnight sensation.

Please note that these are provisional plans at the time of going to press. Full details of the dates, screening times and any restrictions will be posted on the TFS website.

Friday fi lms are, we realise, liked by the Topsham community so we are working with Matthews Hall staff to create a safe environment for people to feel confi dent about going out to watch a fi lm. We will adhere to government guidelines but also take into account the demographic of TFS members to make the screening as safe as possible; for example there will be a reduced capacity at Matthews Hall, so a smaller audience.

If these two trial screenings go well in October, then we hope to start the new season with a fi lm just before Christmas and show the other 11 fi lms in January to April. FS Committee

NewsTOPSHAM FILM SOCIETY

24

It may be September but the visitor season is far from over. The perfect time to show off Topsham to friends and family while enjoying the shops,

pubs and restaurants. So many businesses have done a heroic job opening up within the Covid-19 guidelines whilst still keeping the spirit and joie de vivre that we all love in Topsham.

We’re now working out how to continue this into autumn while coping with social distancing during more diffi cult weather. Please check www.lovetopsham.co.uk for the latest on this and other news.

In the meantime, we’re kicking off a new initiative to keep up to speed with an ever-changing landscape of wider issues, Covid-related, plus building on existing projects that have been working so well in Topsham over the last few months.

Get connected. One of the next big challenges for many people is job security; it’s a huge topic but we felt there was something we could do to play our part in sup-porting the town.

Several businesses and many residents are now having to refocus their professional activities because of the pandemic, looking at new areas for their companies, different avenues to explore or even alternative career paths.

For this reason, the Love Topsham website is launching Topsham

Connections, bringing people and businesses together who may have either job vacancies or ‘know someone who knows someone’.

This will evolve over the next few months - we hope, with your help. Many Topsham people are well-connected with local enterprises of all kinds and perhaps could use those connections to help people fi nd an opportunity that works for all.

Keeping

Topsham

Thriving into Autumn

25

It could be formal or informal, simply connecting two people together, an

apprenticeship, shadowing someone in a job for a few days or mentoring

someone towards obtaining new skills. Let’s see what we can do as a

community to help our neighbours.

Keep an eye on the Topsham Connections pages of the website to get

involved.

Keep the fl ags fl ying… We’ve dressed up

Fore Street for the coming months with the

colourful handmade bunting made last year

by many residents and groups in Topsham.

It was a hugely successful project led by the

Charter Day team and we’re delighted to

be able to make good use of the bunting to

brighten up Topsham again this year.

As the days shorten so we hope the fl ags

will help to keep our spirits high and

serve as a symbol to visitors that the town

remains open for business.

Take a break… We’ve just added more

benches around the town and at the

Recreation ground, pictured, in addition to

those already on the Quay. They are jointly

funded by Love Topsham and Cllr Andrew

Leadbetter’s Devon County Council local

budget.

They have been immensely popular, with almost everyone ‘self-clearing’ -

putting rubbish in nearby bins, returning it to takeaway cafes or taking it

home.

We hope for similar success at the new locations,

so please use them and enjoy the late summer

sunshine with food and drink from our cafes

and shops.

Listen outThere’s still time to enjoy performances as

part of our Love Topsham’s Summer of Sounds

programme, with specially selected buskers

invited to play at Chapel Platt and The Quay. ➧

26

The aim is to make those shop queues a little more enjoyable each Saturday and encourage people to spend longer generally in town as they enjoy music between 10am and 1pm.

Show your loyalty. More and more residents and businesses are signing up as sup-porters of the Love Topsham card.

We were delighted to capture on video one of the town’s best known and respected residents, Mary Lambert (pictured). Do watch out for footage of Mary on our social media channels, where you’ll see her proudly explain why she feels it’s so important to show your support with a Love

Topsham card.

Talking of which, whether you want to use it for offers in our shops or just to show loyalty to the town we love, a Love Topsham card is a ‘must have’.

A card can be yours for a minimum donation of just £3 per month. This helps fund activities like special shopping events, Christmas lights and the new benches - all our work is heavily focused on the town’s need to continue its recovery from the disruption caused by the Coronavirus pandemic.

Check our website for where you can get a card and become a supporter.

And a reminder… as always please check www.lovetopsham.co.uk for the latest news on the town. If you’re hosting visitors, the website has useful guides to making the most of Topsham; a town calendar, information on our business supporters plus the latest offers for Love Topsham card holders.

Our thanks as always to the residents, traders and volunteers who help make our activities possible, and who do so much for Topsham as a whole. See you in town!

➧

27

Topsham Flower ClubWhat an exceptional few months this has been! As

with so many organisations and clubs, we are still unable to hold a meeting. However, as soon as we feel confi dent we can, and subject to government guidelines prevailing at the time, we will keep everyone informed.

Our fl ower arrangers love what they do and they have not been idle over “lockdown”. The Devon & Cornwall members of NAFAS (National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies) held an amazing virtual fl ower show in July which attracted over 120 entries.

Topsham club members Barbara Hewitt, Alison Hazell and Judith Woolven entered stunning displays in categories A Dream of Things to Come, It’s Not All Green, Auction Lot and Rustic Ramble. Pictured above is the clever arrangement by Judith Woolven in the category of Rustic Ramble and below are splendid entries from Barbara and Alison.

All the superb arrangements can be viewed at http://www.devonandcornwallareaofnafas.btck.co.uk/VirtualShow-July2020.

Best wishes go to all our members and visitors and we hope to welcome you all again soon. Joan PayneJudith Woollven - Topsham

Barbara Hewitt - Topsham Alison Hazell - Topsham

28

We are delighted to announce that Nancy Potter House has reached the shortlist for Project of the Year (under £5m) at this year’s Michelmores

Property Awards 2020. The winners will be announced at a Virtual Awards ceremony at 7pm on Thursday 12th November.

Donations: thank you for your patience while we were sorting our current donated items. We can now resume accepting donations at Nancy Potter House (the Hub) on a Monday and Wednesday by appointment only.

We are not accepting clothes, shoes, bags or large furniture. However, we will take DVDs, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. If you would like to donate to us, please give us a call to book a drop-off slot.

Hot meal delivery service continues even though lockdown is slowly being removed. We know how important the hot two-courses lunches are to those who order them. They are available every weekday (Monday–Friday) so just call and book your meal which will be delivered to your door. If you or anyone you know would like to help deliver meals, please call us.

The laundry service in Nancy Potter House is still available for either self-use or booked service. For a pre-booked service wash, you can either drop off laundry or we can collect and deliver back to you. Or if you would like to use the machines yourself, our washing machines can now be pre-booked on Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am-4pm.

Maize Maze: a special thank you from us to Darts Farm for supporting us in these diffi cult times. All proceeds from The Darts Farm Maize Maze go to us. The maze is a fun, creative activity for all ages – give it a go if you haven’t already done so.

Every little helps! We all needed a little help at times to get through lockdown - and it came in a variety of forms. Many of you took to puzzles which is why we’ve decided to start a Jig Saw Puzzle Club. Choose from a catalogue of some 30 puzzles and book your choice for up to three weeks at a time for only 50p! To have a look at our catalogue, please give us a call.

Our shopping trips with George, our minibus driver, enable three people at a time to go shopping in the minibus. The service runs on Mondays and

ESTUARY LEAGUE OF FRIENDS

Working to improve the quality of life of those in need of care,comfort and support in our community since 1987.

29

Thursdays and cost £6 per person. Shoppers have an hour and a half at a supermarket (either Tesco or Sainsbury’s), are picked up and dropped off with shopping at your front door, with all social distancing and Covid requirements in place. Call to book a slot for the transport a few days before you wish to go.

Estuary League of Friends services and information: 01392 879009

30

The Daruma DollJapanese Good Luck Charm

31

Traditionally a handmade (papier mâché) wishing doll, the Daruma is

still the most popular good luck charm in Japan. Given as a birthday or

wedding present, or as a lucky mascot or for the prosperous outcome

of business ventures, Durama dolls help people to stay focused on

achieving their goals.

Eric Bransden, who teaches Japanese and Chinese calligraphy in

Topsham, reveals the curious legend behind this lucky charm.

Daruma was a real person. He was an Indian teacher whose monastic name was Bodhidharma (bodhi - wisdom, dharma - teaching). He was

the leader of the Dyana (meditation) school of Buddhism.

He travelled to China where he gave lectures to the Emperor of China on the

subject of Buddhism and the techniques of meditation. The Chinese people

pronounced Dyana as Channa, which was later shortened to the single

character Chan . In Japan that character is pronounced Zen.

The Chinese also found the name Bodhidharma diffi cult to pronounce, so

they just took the ‘dharma’ part of his name and called him Tammo. Later,

when his fame spread to Japan, ‘dharma’ became Daruma.

According to Chinese legend,

Bodhidharma taught martial arts to

the monks of Shaolin monastery,

which was the origin of Shaolin

Kungfu. In art he is usually shown

as having round, non-Chinese eyes,

wide moustaches and a fi erce warrior

frown.

It is said that he went to a mountain

cave and spent so long seated in the

lotus position that he eventually lost

the use of his legs. That’s why the

Daruma doll, which was created to

honour his warrior spirit, has no legs.

He is shown sitting in meditation, his

body and the top of his head covered

with a red robe. His face is the most

prominent feature, much larger than

life size and sunk down into his chest.

His head seems to have blended with ➧

32

his body so that the shape of the doll looks like a red, round ball.

Some Daruma dolls are weighted at the bottom so that, if pushed, they will sway then resume their upright position. When the dolls are bought, the eyes are without pupils or irises. One eye is fi lled in while making a wish; then you promise Daruma that you will fi ll in the other eye when that wish is fulfi lled. Only then will Daruma have both eyes open.

Japanese parents tell their children: “Be like Daruma - seven times fall over, eight times stand up.” If children are studying for an examination, parents may buy them a Daruma to put on their desk. The parents say: “‘Mix some ink and paint in his left eye. Daruma will help you study. Then, when you pass your exam, reward him with his second eye.”

On the fi rst day of construction of the Nissan car factory in Sunderland, the factory manager painted in one eye of a large Daruma. When the factory was completed in 1986, the then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was invited to open the factory and to paint in the second eye.

I regretted that I had not brought back a souvenir Daruma to the UK but when I saw a picture of the Nissan Daruma, I decided to copy it and make one myself. Now, every morning, he reminds me: “Seven times fall over, eight times stand up.”

➧

33

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FEEL GOOD SHOPPING WITH HOSPISCARE

Come and visit Hospiscare’s Topsham shop.

We have a range of good quality clothing and

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books pictures and gifts.

Every purchase helps raise vital funds to care for local patients and their families.

9 Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HF01392 876901

LOCALLY SOURCED MEAT FISH AND SEAFOOD

The Globe Inn | Fore Street | Topsham | Exeter | EX3 0HRr | EX3 0HHR01392 873471 | [email protected]

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DAY, EVERYDAY

Visit our websitefor menu

34

Roger Webster Garden Design

16a Fore Street Topsham Exeter EX3 0HF

01392 877717

www.webstergardens.co.uk

PanacheI N T E R I O R S

Bespoke Fitted Kitchens Bedrooms • Home Office • Bathrooms

01395 239200www.panacheinteriors.co.uk

see our display at the Aga Shop Darts Farm, Topsham

Eat with purpose!

During this pandemic, we have been working closely with cheesemakers, brewers, cidermakers & growers to help keep them alive & ensure our local food supply chain is sustained. Picture: Patrick

McCaig (Otter Brewery), Phil Ayre (Black Dog Eggs), Mary Quicke (Quicke’s Cheese), James Dart

(Sandford Orchards) at Darts Farm’s Supplier Harvest Supper Celebration

36

Pressure charts, or synoptic charts, quickly tell you a number of things about the weather.

The key thing shown on a pressure chart, like the one shown here, is the atmospheric or air pressure. Put simply, this is the force pushing down by

Various pressure systems cause day-to-day weather changes.

To start our new guide to the weather, Alex Burkhill, Senior

Operational Meteorologist at the Met Offi ce, explains how.

Highs&Lows

37

the weight of the air above. This fl uctuates around the world due to several reasons including heating from the sun.

Pressure is marked on synoptic charts with solid lines called isobars, which indicate where the pressure is the same - similar to how contour lines mark equal height on an Ordinance Survey map. Areas of high and low pressure are also marked on these charts, sometimes with an H or L respectively.

This information tells us a lot as low pressure is generally associated with unsettled weather such as rain and strong winds. Conversely, high pressure indicates fi ne weather due to air descending which inhibits cloud formation; this is when we get our hottest days and coldest nights.

Air fl ow: we can also work out where the air heading to the UK is coming from; this helps us determine if it will be hot, cold, dry or wet. Air tries to travel from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure to equal things out.

However, due to the spinning of the earth, air actually moves in an anticlockwise direction around low pressure and in a clockwise direction around high pressure (in the Northern Hemisphere).

We can also see how strong the wind will be as the tighter the isobars are together, the steeper the pressure gradient and therefore the stronger the winds.

Fronts are also marked on pressure charts to indicate boundaries between air masses, where variables such as temperature and humidity are markedly different.

Warm fronts, red lines with solid red semi circles, show where more humid air is arriving. On the front itself it is likely to be cloudy with some rain, then dank and drizzly weather following.

Cold fronts, blue lines with solid blue triangles, mark where clearer, fresher air is moving in. On the front itself you will often get cloud and rain which could be heavy and persistent, with clearer skies and showers often following.

Occluded fronts: the direction the symbols are pointing indicates the direction the front is moving. Cold fronts move faster than warm fronts and when they catch up they become occluded fronts, purple lines with solid semi circles and triangles. These fronts often bring cloud and showery rain.

38

sustainable, eco-friendly, packaging free shopping in topsham

56 Fore St, Topsham, Devon EX3 0HW T: 01392 75 74 77W: www.nourishoftopsham.com

OPENMON-FRI

10AM-2PM 3PM-6PM

SAT10AM-5PM

@nourishoftopsham @nourishoftopsham @nourish_topsham

Tel: 01392 877977 Mobile: 07801 365925

[email protected] www.plumblinelocal.co.uk

Family run plumbing and heating business with over 30 years experience

Small jobs very welcome

Friendly reliable serviceAdvertising Works!

Let this space work for you, advertise your business here

Telephone: José Northeyon 01392 759164

or email: [email protected]

39

TOPSHAM ALLOTMENTS & GARDENS SOCIETY

New Website and TAGS BenefitsOur Own WebsiteIn response to the wishes of our members, we have developed our own website - topshamags.co.uk - in addition to our Facebook page. It gives a great feel for what we do and how much there is to enjoy in being a members of TAGS.

Thanks to web developer Malcolm Dinsmore and our own Ralph Hare and his team for such a fi ne result.

TAGS benefi tsAlthough trips and the Annual Show have been cancelled due to Covid restrictions, we have kept the Trading Hut open for much of the time (thanks, Nick Booth). The plot holders have also been as busy on their allotments as the rest of us have in our gardens.

Now that places are open again, members have been taking advantage of the reduced price entry card for RHS Rosemoor and the discount at St Bridgets at Clyst St Mary.

Garden rep Sue Parr reports her July garden was mostly wearing green…in a multitude of shades and shapes! Could it be that neither she nor her garden were much good at growing fl owers at that time of year?

The saving grace was her pond – a bit wild but there was always something going on in its depths. July is the month the big green dragonfl ies emerge. Ugly bugs climb up the reeds from the mud at the bottom and from out of these monstrous creepy crawlies beautiful fairy-like creatures emerge. Wonderful!

In mid-July Sue spied a new (to her) insect - the Rosemary beetle, pictured. Beautiful, shiny, dark blue green with two gold stripes on its back. This little beauty came to the UK from Southern Europe in 1995 so it is a fairly recent immigrant.

Its diet includes rosemary, lavender and thyme, all of which Sue grows in abundance but noticeably without signs of damage. The little darlings are no longer in her garden and she’s not going to tell you where they are! Watch out for them and the many other wonderful insects that frequent our gardens.

40

Don’t wait to have your hearing checked!

Book your free hearing test todayCall 01392 873612 quoting BL EM 03

Lifetime Aftercare*Payment Plans including 0%

*for t

he lif

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he he

arin

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Choice of styles and coloursApp connectivity and controlProfessional service delivered locally

Free Hearing Assessments

21 High StreetTopsham EX3 0ED

in association with

TOPSHAM BOWLING CLUB

T.B.C. The Green, Fore Street, Topshamwww.topshambc.co.uk 01392 879137

Summer is coming!Season opens 20 April 2019

Taster sessions onSundays 28 April & 5 May - 10.30am til 1pm &

Wednesday 1 May - 6.30pm til 8.30pm.

but our outdoor seasonbut our outdoor season..

A place to meet friends,enjoy convivial

surroundingsand our award

winning garden.Competitive bar prices

Become a bowling or social member.

HOORAY!Summer is coming!

Season is now openTaster session on

Wednesday 2 May - 6.30pm till 8.30pm Just

Summer is coming!

Season is now openTaster sessions on

Sunday 5 May - 10.30am til 1pm &Wednesday 1 May - 6.30pm til 8.30pm.

TOPSHAMHAIRDESIGNT H D

* Open 6 days a week

* Late nights

* Organic Colour Specialists

* TIGI, Bedhead & Catwalk stockist

* Appointment not always necessary

Tel: 01392 87781620a High Street, Topsham EX3 0EA

41

BRADFORDBUILDERSSpecialists in renovations,

conservation work, extensions,carpentry, plastering,

traditional lime plastering,bathroom & tiling

All aspects considered

FARLEY’S COURT, FORE STREET,

TOPSHAM, EXETER

01392 68123007984 153088

[email protected]

Experienced, friendly and local RIBA • chartered architecture practice based in Exeter. Specialising in the adaptation of listed • buildings, residential extensions, renovations and low energy new builds.For a FREE consultation with • please contact Luke McAdam:

ARCHITECTS

01392 459777 - [email protected]

Aerial Services(Mike Cummings)

• Same Day Service Available• 7 Days A Week• Sales, Service, Installation• Repairs & Reception Problems• Digital Aerial Upgrades

01392 27951307836 641635

www.aerial-services-mikecummings.co.uk

NO CALL OUT CHARGE - FREE ESTIMATES

C0857

Some beautiful photographs – here’s a taster - were submitted for the St Margaret’s Virtual Flower Festival. It was a joy to catch a glimpse of people’s

gardens. Many thanks to all who contributed and to those who made donations.

If you still haven’t viewed the Festival, go to the website A Church Near You at . https://www.achurchnearyou.com. Type in Topsham. St Margaret’s will appear on the left hand side. Once on the St Margaret’s site, click on Virtual Flower Festival on the left hand side.

You can then download the fi le. Warning! It is a big fi le and takes a while to download.

I hope you enjoy it! Gill Yates

42

Blooming Marvellous!

43

SAFE SECURE STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, BOATS,

CARS & BIKES

Storage from just £7 per week

Collect and Return Service available

01395 239403

Woodbury Business Park, Woodbury, Nr Exeter

E-mail: [email protected]

CENTRAL GARAGE70a Fore Street, Topsham, Exeter, Devon EX3 0HQ

Tel: (01392) 873310 Mobile: 07779 823493

All mechanicalrepairs & servicingaccident repairs-tyres & exhausts

Proprietor: P. A. Tois

VEHICLE TESTING STATIONAPPROVED BY

THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT

Angie Pearman at 4 PawsQualified Dog Groomer

Call Angie on07717284017 or 01404 850538

Grooming for all breeds of dogClipping, stripping, and bathinng

Every Dog needs its daay

ARTHUR’SButchery & Delicatessen

Personal Attention and Quality Products

Finest Quality Meat and Cheeses

Scottish Smoked Salmon

Freshly Baked Bread RollsPies, Pasties and Sausage Rolls

Local Lamb and Pork

Sandwiches Prepared Daily

Scotch Beef

Game in Season

Let us Quote for yourDeep Freeze Requirements

67 Fore Street, TopshamTelephone: Topsham 875481

Real TimeGet-togethers Soon

Preparations are underway for Topsham Slimming World groups to

return to in-person groups soon!

Groups have been running virtually over the last fi ve months and members

at the Monday group have lost an incredible 21st 10lb (138kg) between

April and July inclusive!

Helen Patterson, who runs the Monday group, says: “I couldn’t be prouder

of my members. I’ve celebrated so many weight loss achievements over

the last four months, ranging from half stone awards right up to a fi ve

stones award! I’ve also seen members fi nding new ways to become active

during the lockdown.

“Here, losing weight isn’t about going hungry and moving more doesn’t

need to be running marathons – unless you want to, of course. We know

support is key when it comes to managing a healthy weight and we share

our highs and lows together.

“As many of the members of my groups have seen, when you lose weight

you’re already doing one of the very best things you can to future-proof

your health by losing weight and developing healthy habits for life.

Obesity is a huge topic in the news at the moment, with evidence showing

that carrying extra weight makes it harder for the body to fi ght Covid-19.

The government has announced new plans to tackle obesity across the

UK and as part of these plans Slimming World is a proud partner in Public

44

45

Health England’s Better Health initiative; this provides an opportunity for

the nation to reset and introduce healthy lifestyle changes.

“It’s great that the Government has committed to helping people to

lose weight and improve their health. Having been a Slimming World

consultant for the past four years, and as someone who has lost over

three stones myself, I know how truly life-changing a healthy weight can

be for someone – and for their whole family too, because we know when

people learn healthy habits around food and activity they pass them on

to those around them.”

Says Helen: “We at Slimming World have always recognised that those

who struggle with their weight need to be treated with compassion,

understanding and care.

“As well as the tools to make changes, people need support to make those

changes and to keep them up – whatever life throws their way. So we

don’t force, restrict or shame our members into action. We support, we

share and we care… and it works!

46

Chiropody

Vanessa Coates Podiatry Fully HCPC registered Chiropodist

and Podiatrist. Experienced practitioner in foot pain,

problems and routine foot care.

134 Topsham Road, Exeter near bus stop and has off road parking.

See vanessacoates.co.uk for details and prices or call:

01392 459262

Providing the Best Possible Care for our local Community

You don’t have to.

For Safe and Effective Treatment

EXPERIENCING ACHES AND PAINS?

5 North Street, Heavitree, Exeter EX1 2RHFree Parking at rear of building

01392 273243

Michael J. SidebottomB.Sc. Eng. (Hons), M.I.E. .

COMPUTER USER SUPPORT

Confidentiality & Integrity

Mac Hardware/Software Integration

Apple®Specialist

Tel.: 01392 204090

Mobile Tel.: 07835 353892

e-mail: [email protected]

SMJ

47

Alpha Marine Systems Ltd.

Alpha Yacht Surveys

Condition, Pre-purchaseand Insurance Surveys

Friendly, helpful advice

Michael Horwood BSc PhD MIMarEST CMarEng CEng

www.alphamarine.co.uk

Email: [email protected]

01392 875558 or 07906 898533** Special rates for members of local

sailing clubs **

α BILLALLWORK

Plumbing

Carpentry

General Maintenance

For a Friendly andReliable Service call:

07811 400022 No Job Too Small

48

ACTIVITIES & SOCIETIES

Allotments & [email protected] David and Stella McLarin, 01392 877318 Show secretaries Richard and Heather Carson 01392 875644

Art GroupTopsham School, Orchard WayLast Tuesday of the month6.30pm-9pmwww.topshamartgroup.co.ukSec: Prof Charles Ward16 Parkfi eld RoadTopsham EX3 0DR01392 664027 [email protected]

Badminton ClubMatthews Hall, Fore StreetRichard Holland01392 875269 [email protected]

Bellringers, TopshamBell Tower, St Margaret’s ChurchTower Captain: Matt Pym07814 [email protected] 7.30pm - 9pm.

Birdwatching & NaturalistMatthews Hall, Fore StreetDavid Byrne 01392 758557 [email protected]

Bowling ClubThe Green, Fore Street01392 879137Gen Secretary David Tucker01392 [email protected]

Bridge ClubTopsham Bowling ClubThe Green, Fore [email protected]/topsham

CYCLE HIRE

Darts Farm Shopping Village01392 87820

Route 2 Bikes TopshamNr Topsham Quay4 Amity Place EX3 0JE01392 [email protected]

Clyst Vale ShotokanKarate ClubMarion & Chris May01392 259545

Electronic Organ Club, Exeter01392 466227 Maureen [email protected]

Estuary Players01626 891579 Alan [email protected]

Film SocietyCally Petitt 01392 875431 or07702 021068Daron Murellinfotopshamfi [email protected]

Flower ClubMembership secretary:Sally Rawlinson 01395 [email protected] Hall, Fore Street, TopshamTuesday monthly 7.30pm

Folk Club, TopshamBridge Inn Malthouse Every Tuesday 7.45pm (session at 7.15pm) 01392 875332 John [email protected]

Football Club, TopshamClubhouse 01392 873678

Globefi elds Community CentreGlobefi eld, TopshamTuesday afternoons John Menday 07714 447573

GIRL GUIDING UKBrownies (girls 7-10 years)St Margaret’s Church RoomsRosemary Farley01392 430544Exeter Trefoil GuildPatsy 01392 824919

History GroupSt Nicholas Methodist ChurchFore Street, TopshamCharles [email protected]

Ladies Club, TopshamNelson Close Community CentreNelson Close, High StreetSecond Wednesday of each month. 7.15pm. Linda Boysey 01392 874070

Line DancingMatthews Hall, Fore St, TopshamMonday 7-10pmEstelle Shepherd 07759 [email protected]

Museum SocietyStrand, Topsham 01392 873244Jan [email protected] contact: Michael [email protected]

Nelson Close BingoNelson Close Community CentreNelson Close, High St, TopshamThursday afternoonsJohn Menday 07714 447573

Rock School, TopshamSt Nicholas Methodist ChurchMonday 4-5pm & 5-6.30pm01392 200232 Michael [email protected] 873471 Dave [email protected]

Rugby F ClubBonfi re FieldExeter RoadTopsham, EX3 0LYClubhouse Manager: Chris Beagle01392 [email protected]

GGIRRLBBroowSSt MMRosse001339EExeetPP t

ADDRESSBOOK

49

St James Cricket ClubUniversity of Exeter Sports Ground, Exeter Road,Topsham EX3 0LYMembership Secretary:Sheila Harding 01392 876481 07816 665503sheila@courtfi eld4.co.uk

St Margaret’s Church Choir01392 875276 Tony YatesSt Margaret’s Church/Church RoomFriday 7.15-8.45pm

Sailing ClubHawkins Quay, Ferry Road, TopshamKate Brodie 07986 [email protected]

School of DanceVicki Lugg 01392 876556 [email protected]

Sea Scouts(1st Topsham)Joy Lovett - Group Scout [email protected]

Shotokan KarateKevin 07894 069573Clyst St Mary Village Hall 6.30pm-8pm Thursday

Quay Note SingersTUE mornings, 11am-1pm, St Nicholas Methodist Church. All welcome, no commitment required, friendly group. Contact Sarah on 01392 437792 or [email protected]

Topsham Community TennisCally 01392 875431 or 07702 021068

Topsham PoolReception: 01393 [email protected]

Topsham Rotary ClubPresident: Flick Evans: fl [email protected] Secretary: John Arnatt: [email protected]

Topsham SocietyPresident/Chair Planning Group: David BurleyChair: Jeremy RawlingsHon Sec: José Northey01392 759164www.topshamsociety.uk

Women on the RunTopsham GroupLighter Inn, Topsham QuayTuesday 6.30pmGill Thorne 01392 874698

COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICES

EXETER CITY COUNCILLORSTOPSHAM WARDCllr Rob Newby514 Topsham RoadExeter EX2 7DN01392 [email protected] Keith Sparkes 22 Fleming WayExeter EX2 4SE07786 [email protected]

Co-carsCommunity car club 0345 345 2544www.co-cars.co.uk

Conservative Club29 Fore Street01392 874413

Devon Community DirectoryDevon County [email protected]

Devon County Council Exeter representativeCllr Andrew LeadbetterRobin Hill, Tresillian Gardens Topsham EX3 0BA07815 [email protected]

LIBRARYNancy Potter HouseNelson Close, Topsham 01392 874955 [email protected]

LOVE TOPSHAMLily NealThe Topsham Bookshop01392 877895Jo & Paul Berman07967 [email protected]

Member of ParliamentSimon Jupp, MPConst. Offi ce: 01395 276 [email protected] Box 244, Exmouth EX8 9DG

Met Offi ce, Fitzroy RoadExeter EX1 3PBDr Keir Bovis Next Generation Modelling Systems(NGMS) Programme Manager(0330 135 1419)keir.bovis@metoffi ce.gov.uk www.metoffi ce.gov.uk

Saturday MarketMatthews Hall, Fore StreetTopshamManager Mary Knight07854 301869 market@topshamcommunityassociation.co.ukwww.matthewshalltopsham.co.uk

Tidy Exeter Group (Topsham)01392 877296 Daphne [email protected]

Topsham & St Loyes BranchLabour PartyFourth Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in the Council Chamber of Matthews Hall. Chris [email protected]

Town CrierRogan Meadows07962 971410 (text only)[email protected]

EMERGENCY dial 999

Crimestoppers(24hrs) 0844 770 6997Devon & Cornwall PolicePolice Headquarters,Middlemoor, Exeter EX2 7HQPublic non-emergency101 or [email protected]: national power cut helpline: 10524hrs, 7 days a weekSouth Wales & South West EnglandWestern Power Distribution0800 052 0400Fire Station, Topsham01392 872 100Fore Street, Topsham

50

Floodline0845 988 1188Gas: National Helpline0800 111 99924 hrs, 7 days a weekSouth West Water(24hrs) 0344 346 2020South West Electricity Board0800 365 900COMMUNITY CAREAge Concern Exeter01392 202092 Corine BaileyAlcoholics AnonymousNational Helpline0800 9177 [email protected] 1111Cruse Bereavement Care01392 272406 ExeterDomestic Violence0808 2000 247 (Freephone 24hrs)

Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital Barrack Road, Heavitree, Exeter A&E Department01392 411611Samaritans10 Richmond Road, Exeter01392 411711

HEALTH & FITNESSActive FitnessThe Barn Newcourt Barton,Clyst Road, Topsham EX3 0DBinfo@active-fi tness.co.ukDance Fun ExerciseInna 07766 [email protected] Hall10am-11am TuesdayFIT MovementWomen’s fi tness [online] Wendy Goldthorp07946 272615www.thefi tmovement.co.ukHerbalife Members1 Tophayes, Elm Grove Road, Topsham EX3 0BWLynne Congreve 01392 757850 or 07962 168556www.sante.org.uk

PilatesDorothy Holman Youth Centre, Ferry Road & St Margaret’s Church, Leisure Area, Fore StreetFran Noble01392 682557/07823 446211 [email protected] Matthews HallAdele Stickland 01392 [email protected] Nicholas Methodist Church Hall, Fore StreetAnnabel Tsouris01392 218203/07832 274066QigongEstuary Clinic19 Fore Street, TopshamPenny Bayer 01392 875523Slimming WorldNancy Potter House, Nelson Close, Topsham, EX3 0DX.Helen Patterson 07966 871314Toneup2fi tnessPilates: WED Nancy Potter House 9.30am-10.20am. THU St Margaret’s Church Rooms 7pm-8pm.Stretch Fit! THU St Margaret’s Church Rooms 6pm-6.50pm. Doris: 07769 687319 ordoris@toneup2fi tness.comwww.toneup2fi tness.com

WeightwatchersSt Margaret’s Church Rooms07845 228340 Claire [email protected] 6.30-7.30pm

YogaCouncil Chamber,Matthews Hall, Fore Street07775 672 777 Jane [email protected] 6-8.45pm

Yoga with SophiaTopsham School, Orchard Way Monday 5p -8.15pm (2 classes) & Matthew’s Hall, Fore Street Tuesday 1.30pm-3pmContact [email protected] 01392 400260

GETTING AROUNDAvocet Line Rail Users GroupGerry Hurfurt, Membership Sec.Brookside,The Strand, Lympstone, Devon EX8 5JW [email protected] International Airport01392 367433Sea Dream FerryTrouts Boatyard, The Quay, Topsham to Turf Daily mid-May-SeptemberWeekends/bank holidaysfrom April. 07778 370582Stuart Line Cruises01395 222144

Topsham FerryUnderway, Topsham07801 203338 Mike StevensFerry RoadDaily [except Tuesdays] April-endof October

Topsham - Turf River Exe Water TaxiWeekend evenings only.07746 747595

Turf [email protected] Canal, Exminster, DevonNot accessible by car; take local ferries. 01392 833128

VENUES FOR HIREDorothy Holman Youth CentreFerry Road, Topsham01392 875695

Estuary League of FriendsNancy Potter HouseNelson Close, Topshamoffi [email protected] 879009

Football Club, Topsham01392 873678 Clubhouse

Matthews HallFore Street, TopshamBookings: Mrs Veronica Coe01392 876865TCA Administrator: Lucy Wynn 07940 [email protected] Market Manager:Mary [email protected]: Louise Russell07736 735181

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Rugby Football Club, TopshamBonfi re Field, Exeter Rd, Topsham 07867 840057Dave & Sue Tanner

St Margaret’s Church RoomsFore Street, Topsham [email protected]

St Nicolas Methodist ChurchFore Street, Topsham 01392 876155 Paul Hicks

Swimming Pool, Topsham01392 874477 Sharon WannellTopsham School01392 874498Emma Pipe - Head [email protected]

VOLUNTEERINGDevon Air Ambulance Trust01392 879285Sarah Wolfenden / Linda Cain47 Fore Street, Topsham

Estuary League of Friends Shop01392 876487 Rachel Gilpin20c High Street, Topsham

Hospiscare Shop01392 8769019 Fore Street, Topsham

Topsham Friends of Hospiscare01392 876378William [email protected]

Fruit & Vegetables Quiz Answers

1. Cabbage.

2. Lettuce.

3. Potato.

4. Banana.

5. Plum.

6. Apple.

7. Artichoke.

8. Lemon.

9. Carrot.

10. Caulifl ower.

11. Brussel Sprout.

12. Kiwi Fruit.

13. Pear.

14. Turnip.

15. Pineapple.

16. Pepper.

17. Tomato.

18. Damson.

19. Squash.

20. Pumpkin.

21. Peas.

22. Cucumber.

23. Beetroot.

24. Sweetcorn.

25. Runner Bean

MM.. Sillifantt & Sons A phone call will obtainour personal attention

19-20 Holloway St. St Leonard’s, Exeter. EX2 4JDemail -

52

There was a very loud knock on the front door of number 10 Higher Shaper Street. My grandfather answered it.

“Mr Bricknell?”

“Yes”

“I am from the water company. According to our records you do not have mains water in the house?”

“No, us don’t.”

“Where do you get your water from?”

“Us have got a pump in the back yard.”

“Well, I am sorry but these pumps are a health hazard. We are closing them down in Topsham.”

This was in the late 1940’s when this was happening all over the town.

A lengthy argument ensued. My grandfather could be very argumentative. Eventually. a compromise was reached. The man from the water company would take a sample from the pump, get it analysed and when the result came back, he would get the pump shut down.

About a week later the man from the water company was back again.“Mr Bricknell, we have had your water analysed. It is purer than ours.”

Having won his argument, grandfather then agreed to have mains water put in!

Photos: Topsham Museum

My Grandfather Bricknell

53

William (Willo) Bricknell and his twin brother Jack (pictured above) were born in 1868. For most of their lives they lived near each other in the

same street. They died within a few months of each other in 1948.

I do not know much about their early lives; by the time that I came on the scene they were both retired. On the 1896 census William’s trade was given as blacksmith but he spent most of his working life as a painter and decorator.

It was as such that he got work at what was then the Exminster Asylum. He took the job for a couple of weeks until something else turned up and retired from there some 40 years later.

Some years after his retirement he was sitting on a bench down Underway when some visitors came along. “Can you tell us what that big building is on the other side of the river?”

“Tis the Devon County Lunatic Asylum. I was there for 40 years.”

“And are you cured now?”

“You bloody fool, I worked there!”

To get to work in Exminster he, and others, would get the ferry across the river and walk across the marshes. After what was probably a very long working day, they returned by the same route each evening, probably six days a week. Eventually grandfather got a bicycle and went round by what became the Exeter bypass.

Despite this, he and his brother, together with Doc Sandford (below), were founder members of the town band.

A story he would tell was about when they played for the Exminster Carnival. No motor transport then, they took their instruments across on the ferry and walked over the marshes.

After marching all the way up and down Exminster, the procession broke up at The Royal Oak. So what could be more natural than thirsty bandsmen taking advantage of this? Grandfather was teetotal but would go into the pub with them.

Unfortunately, one of the band members did drink… rather too much. Going back across the marshes he saw two bridges across a dyke and tried to cross the wrong one. They fi shed him out but when they got back to the river he was in such a muddy, stinking mess the ferryman would not let him into the boat. So he was towed back across the river, still in his band uniform, hanging on to the back of it.

54

Grandfather played the E fl at Bass in the band until well on into his seventies. The practice room was in the Salutation Inn. Most of his sons became bandsmen; it was almost a family affair. The other band family were the Underhills. Wilf Underhill, his father and uncles were all musicians.

The brothers Willo and Jack Bricknell were also volunteer fi remen. At some time or another, call bells were fi tted in the fi remen’s homes to call them to

the station. One very wet and stormy night the wires at the quay kept clashing together and making the bell ring. After returning from about three wet and futile trips to the station, Grandfather lost his temper, ripped the bell off the wall and threw it into the back garden!

At the start of the war the fi re service was nationalised and the non-standard Topsham fi re engine was taken away. “They got no right to, the town paid for it, it belongs to the town!” Grandfather stormed.

To his delight the replacement appliance was too big for the fi re station beside the Mathews Hall and had to be housed in the garage, opposite the Coop, for the duration.

Grandfather Bricknell married Maria Dunscombe, born 1861, from another Topsham family. Their fi rst home was in a small house in Trucklebed Alley (now North Street), off Higher Shapter Street.

They had eight children. Amelia Kate (Kit), born 1890; William (Bill), born 1892; George, born 1893; Alfred (Alf), born 1895; Bessie, born 1897; Bert, born 1903 and Lillian, born 1909. There was also one child who died in infancy.

Later the family moved to a bigger house, the fi rst one on the right as you go up Higher Shapter Street. From what I remember of what my Aunty Kit said, the house was bought with money borrowed from somebody who lived on the Strand. She said that each week she would be given money and had to go down to pay it and get a receipt.

The house was where Grandfather lived for the rest of his life, just a few doors down from his twin brother. Many other members of the family also lived in the street.

One last glimpse of him - a big man, fl orid and with a moustache, sitting on the seat at the bottom of Shapter Street with Bannan Voysey, both airing their views on all political and social matters fortissimo.

Local boy made good Sir Harry Selly MP would sit with them when he was down from London on holiday. A few months later what Bannan and Willo had said would be regurgitated in Parliament. Sir Harry always got a good attendance for his speeches and the Right Honourable members found them very entertaining! Jim Beed

55

Your friendly local garage can look after your carwith the latest equipment and trained staffALL MAKES SERVICED & REPAIRED

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GOOD SELECTION OF QUALITY USED CARS

www.stationgaragetopsham.co.uk

Elm Grove Road, Topsham

01392 873129

COLLINGWOODSB & B

Carol & Derek welcome you to their spacious and comfortable

Bed & Breakfast

All EnsuiteAmple Car Parking ~ Easy Access

56

ST MARGARET’S PARISH CHURCHFore Street

For the time being, open for personal prayer only on Fridays 9am-10am and Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm.

The Zoom links for services are on ourpages on the A Church Near You website:

https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/8641/(StMargaret’s) or https://www.achurchnearyou.com/

church/8688/ (St Luke’s) - see “Zoom links for on-line services” in the tabs on the left hand side

of the opening page.

If you are having trouble accessing the links, please email Louise Grace ([email protected]) for the services on 10 and 11 May and Tony Raven ([email protected]) for the services/events on 13, 14 and 16 May. Also, if you

know of anyone who would like to join the Sunday service via telephone link, please could you email Peter Ingerslev

([email protected]).

VicarThe Rev’d Louise Grace

T: 01392 873188

ChurchwardensKeir Bovis [email protected]

T: 07495 701301Jenny Ellis [email protected]

T: 01392 879158

Bell Ringing CaptainMatt Pym

T: 07814 348751

Church & Church Rooms BookingsRoger Prowse

[email protected]

ST NICHOLAS METHODIST CHURCHFore Street

Minister: Paul CollingsT: 01392 206229

Online worship is available from St Nicholas Methodist Church YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/

channel/UCtIuejNJjeNFPPZcVAHyn8wOr search Youtube for “St Nicholas Methodist Church

Topsham.”The Rev’d Paul Collings posts a daily devotion on the St

Nicholas Methodist Church website featuring his artwork and verse. These have included series on: Stations of the Cross, Locked Down But Not Out, Refl ections on the Holy Spirit and, following Pentecost, the next series will be The

Fruit of the Spirit.http://st-nicholas-methodist.blogspot.com/

GOSPEL CHURCH Fore Street

Mr Derek CoatesT: 01395 233413

HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCHStation Road, Topsham EX3 0EE

http://holycrosstopsham.org

Priest AdministratorFr Kieran KirbyT: 01392 272815

[email protected]

Sunday Mass 11amWeekday Mass: usually Monday and Thursday at

10am but please check the parish newsletter or church notice board

Numbers at Mass will be restricted to 18 while special measures are in force to ensure safety during the

coronavirus pandemic. People attending Mass will have to give their names and contact details to the stewards

on duty and follow the procedures in place. The obligation to attend Sunday Mass remains suspended, so parishioners are asked to attend a weekday Mass if they can so that those who cannot attend during the

week can come on Sunday.

Mass will continue to be streamed live from Plymouth Cathedral and other churches. Please see the Holy Cross parish website (www.holycrosstopsham.org)

for details.

Registers

Deaths

Mar 21 Jennifer Ann Whiffen, late of Topsham. Aged 78, not 95 as previously listed. Our apologies to the family.

May 22 Ronald Frederick Dodsworth (Ron), 92; late of Topsham

Jul 6 David Hubbick (75); late of Topsham

18 Hazel Caine (87); late of Exeter

24 Jean Doris Hancock (90); late of Topsham

27 Linda May Blyth (66); late of Topsham

31 Ann Miller (Shelley) (72); late of Topsham

C H U R C H N OT I C E SLocal churches can offer limited opening times only (see below)

See also online services below.

57

Printed by Brightsea Print Group, Unit 3 Fair Oak Close, Exeter Airport Business Park, Exeter EX5 2ULTelephone: 01392 360616 - Email: [email protected] - Website: www.brightsea.co.uk

ESTUARY - who to contact PUBLISHED BY ST. MARGARET’S CHURCH, TOPSHAM

EditorDiana Trout: The Cottage, Shillingford St George, Exeter EX2 9QNTel: 01392 832723 Mob: 07780 [email protected]

Assistant Editor/Advertising EnquiriesJosé Northey: 3 Monmouth Hill, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0JQTel: 01392 759164 [email protected]

Submission date for contributions/advertising: by 8th of the pre-ceding month of the issue in which you wish your item to feature.

Church contact (St Margaret’s); Funerals (St Margaret’s); Baptisms(St Margaret’s); Weddings (St Margaret’s & St Luke’s)[email protected] of Estuary deliveries (no charge) & Subscriptions (£8pa):Rachel Nichols (temporary): 21 Victoria Road, Topsham Exeter EX3 0EUTel: 01392 877375 Email: Rachel.Nichols412@ gmail.com

Our advertisers support your magazine. Please support them.Shop locally, save petrol and meet your neighbours.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by various contributors are not necessarily those of the Estuary editors. The inclusion of an article in Estuary does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, policies or methods. No responsibility can be accepted for the information disclosed by advertisements which are taken in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in Estuary. However, no liability can be accepted for any loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. The editors reserve the right to edit articles as appropriate.

Topsham Surgery and Glasshouse Medical Centre

Topsham Surgery serves the whole of Topsham as well as its surrounding villages and the community of Countess Wear. Our Team consists of male and female Doctors, Practice Nursing Team and Admin Team and we offer a full general practice service. We run specialist clinics for children, pregnant women, patients who suffer with a chronic illness such as diabetes, asthma or other long term lung condition and coronary heart disease, together with extended minor surgery. We offer an online service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week which enables patients to book GP appointments, submit a repeat prescription and amend registration details. We also offer telephone appointments.

Holman Way, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0EN Tel No. 01392 874646Email [email protected] www.topshamsurgery.gpsurgery.net

58

‘Suzanne’Friendly Atmosphere

Expert Styling in Ladies andGents Hairdressing

22a High Street, TopshamTel.: 876274

Topsham HandymanMinor Property Services forHouseholds and Businesses.

No Job too Small ~ Free QuotesEnhanced DBS Checked

Peter Tapp07792 587308

[email protected]

The Clubhouse at Topsham RFC

Please make all enquiries to Chris Beagle - Clubhouse Manager - [email protected]

Topsham RFC, Bonfire Field, Exeter Road, Topsham, EX3 0LYT: 01392 873651M: 0797 7222 289

The Perfect Venue for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an open space to host a Birthday Party, or a

professional environment to hold a corporate event, we’ve got exactly what you’re looking for!

• On-Site Catering Facilities• Fully Licensed Bar• Large Free Car Park• Close to Junction 30 off the M5• Nearby Bus and Train Stops• Outside Space Available• Wheelchair access as well as disabled parking

Main Function room – 90m2 with a large 130” ScreenMember’s Bar – 16m2 with a large 65” Plasma Screen

7222 289

Topsham RFC

60

Introducing experienced reflexologist Freya…

Enjoy the deeply relaxing effects of reflexology and its numerous benefits for health and wellbeing with Freya.

‘My love for reflexology stems from seeing it's benefits first hand when I started having t r e a t m e n t s o v e r a d e c a d e a g o . I found after treatments I slept deeply and woke feeling refreshed & less stressed.

Since then I have been intrigued by the potential for complementary therapies to improve health on both a physical and emotional level. Reflexology is a safe and gentle therapy which uses a network of reflexes on the hands and feet to promote deep relaxation, improve sluggish circulation and boost the immune system, among other benefits.

I am a fully insured member of the Association of Reflexologists and qualified practitioner from the award winning Devon School of Reflexology.’

Freya is offering £10 off an initial reflexology treatment until 30th September.

To book in with Freya please contact us

01392 875770 | [email protected]

19 FORE STREET ● TOPSHAM ● EX3 0HETelephone: 01392 875770

Website: www.estuaryclinic.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

We are now fully open with safety measures in place to keep everyone safe. We look forward to seeing you all soon. John and Lisa