Torrington Crier

10/06/2026

From Your District Councillors…
Torridge District Council, together with North Devon Council, is getting ready to formally kick off the process of creating a new Local Plan for Northern Devon, which includes setting out a vision for future development and investment across the area. This process will involve opportunities for residents to share their views by getting involved in consultations. We will keep you updated as we hear more on this.
TDC has announced that a new scheme has been launched in the district to help people in financial crisis. The Crisis and Resilience Fund is designed to provide support to low-income households experiencing a sudden financial crisis and to help families to become more financially resilient in the long term. TDC has also received additional funding to support residents on a low income, in crisis, and who are reliant on oil. You can find out more about the scheme and apply via an online form by visiting the Cost of Living Help section of the TDC website, or by calling the Council’s partner and local charity organisation, Encompass, on their website or by telephone on 01271 371499.
Finally, a reminder that we will have new Councillor Grant funding (£3,000 in total) available soon for 2026-2027 and we encourage representatives of local community groups and charities to contact us as early as possible, about making an application so that we can support lots of great projects that will benefit the town.
Cllr Doug Smith, [email protected], 07970 636 199
Cllr Chris Bright, [email protected], 07936 325 909
Cllr Lauren Bright, [email protected], 07595 659 310

08/06/2026

08/06/2026

Keeping Dogs Safe & Happy in Hot Weather
As the weather improves across North Devon, many of us are looking forward to longer walks, beach trips, and spending more time outdoors with our dogs. While summer can be great fun, warmer weather can also be dangerous for our four-legged friends if we are not careful.
Dogs struggle much more than humans in the heat because they mainly rely on panting to cool themselves down. In hot or humid weather this may not be enough, and overheating can quickly lead to heatstroke — a serious and potentially life-threatening emergency.
The good news is there are plenty of simple ways to help keep dogs cool, safe, and comfortable during warm weather.
Keep them hydrated
Always make sure your dog has access to cool, fresh water both indoors and outside. Place several water bowls around the house and garden, refresh them regularly, and add a few ice cubes to keep the water cool. If you are heading out for walks or car journeys, take water and a portable bowl with you.
Walk at cooler times
During warmer weather, it is important to adjust your walking routine. Try to walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower, and avoid the hottest part of the day.
Choose shaded routes where possible and avoid long runs or energetic games. Hot pavements can also burn paws, so remember: if the ground is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s feet.
On very hot days, indoor enrichment such as puzzle feeders, scent games or short training sessions can be a safer alternative to exercise.
Help them stay cool
There are lots of easy ways to help dogs cool down at home.
A paddling pool in a shaded area can be a great way for dogs to splash and cool their paws. Cooling mats also provide a comfortable place to rest, especially for older or thick-coated dogs.
Cold damp towels placed over the belly, paws, and neck can help regulate body temperature, while fans and frozen toys can provide extra relief during very warm weather.
Frozen treats are another fun option. Frozen carrots, ice cubes with treats hidden inside, or frozen Kong toys can help keep dogs cool and entertained.
Never leave a dog in a hot car
Cars can become dangerously hot within minutes, even on mild days. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a short time or with windows slightly open.
If travelling with your dog, make sure there is good airflow, carry water and a bowl, and take regular breaks on longer journeys.
Know the signs of heatstroke
Signs of heatstroke include:
• Heavy panting
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse
If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog somewhere cool, offer small amounts of water, wet their coat with cool water, and contact your vet immediately.
Flat-faced breeds, elderly dogs, puppies, overweight dogs, and dogs with breathing problems are particularly vulnerable in hot weather and may need extra care.
With a few simple precautions, dogs can still enjoy the summer safely and comfortably alongside their owners.
Ruth Ferguson, Brannam Vets

Welcome to Brannam Vets Now Open We’re North Devon’s newest Independent Veterinary Practice based at Roundswell | Barnstaple About Brannam Vets Brannam Vets is a new family owned veterinary practice for your pets. We are conveniently situated just off the main

06/06/2026

06/06/2026

Torrington Museum
The museum is open and looking forward to meeting you this year, whether you’re a regular or new visitor: we have new displays and some exciting news about the future!
Firstly, we have some fabulous new Torrington-themed colouring books designed by Aisling Tierney, based on Torrington Castle. They’re perfect for inquisitive kids or mindful adults and packed with beautiful pictures and fascinating historical background to each one. Proceeds go to the Dig The Castle project and the museum, but there’s only a limited supply so get in quickly. They’re £4.50 and worth every penny.
We’ve taken in some fascinating items lately, including an amazing document on vellum, dated 1583: a signed bond between Andrew Upham, Thomas Miller and John Huddell, concerning land in the Church Lane area, and a beautiful silver cup presented to Captain C. Doe by the town to mark his being awarded the Military Cross in the First World War. Our collections tell the stories of Torrington and its people so, if you think you have anything that might be of interest, please email us at [email protected], with photographs and a little background. We can accept donations but can also take items on loan, if you think you might want them back one day. Everything is given the best possible care, and conservation standards are applied rigorously, so you can be sure your item will be well looked after. We’re particularly keen to acquire one-off pieces of Dartington Crystal for a display to commemorate its 60th anniversary for a display next year.
The huge Market House over the Pannier Market is moving ever closer to opening: the paint is on the walls, the ceiling is fixed and the fire doors are now safe. Next steps are to install heating, upgrade the electrics and replace the flooring. Once that’s all sorted, we’ll bring down our textile collection and create a conservation space where you can see how we care for our collections, and get involved yourself if you fancy getting hands-on with our collections and learning new skills. There’ll be new displays, including seasonal ones to reflect important local events such as May Fair, archaeological work at the Castle and anything interesting on the town’s calendar.
Finally, a couple of pleas for help. Firstly, we have a lovely three-fold leaflet to attract visitors. If you have a business or holiday cottage, perhaps you’d be kind enough to take some? Either email us at the address above or pop into the museum at 14 South Street on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays between 10 and 3. We’re happy to post them if you can’t get in and have a few handy plastic dispensers if you need one.
Secondly, we’re always on the lookout for new volunteers to join our friendly team. It’s a terrific way to put something back into your local community and you’ll make new friends, meet and greet our visitors and make their time here something really special. You can do as much or as little as you want and, once you’ve done some room guiding, you’ll find all kinds of other interesting things behind the scenes to help with: such as collections conservation, cataloguing, back office/IT, archiving and even a bit of painting and decorating. Just pop in or drop us an email as above. It’s a really good way to add some skills to your CV if you’re job hunting and our opening hours are perfect if you’re looking for something to do between school runs. You don’t need any experience or knowledge of history, just an open mind and friendly personality!
If you haven’t been in to visit us yet, it’s absolutely free to enter and we’re much bigger than you think, not just the little shop front next to Taff’s chip shop, with two floors and nine rooms stuffed to the rafters with fascinating displays about Torrington and its people, from the Bronze Age to the present day, all in a modern setting (no dusty brown wood cases here) and very friendly. Kids and well-behaved parents are welcome, and we’ll do everything possible to make your visit the best it can possibly be. Because we’re completely independent, we rely on the support of you, our lovely community in everything we do: we’re here purely to look after the town’s history for future generations so come and say hello!
Torrington Museum

05/06/2026

From Your County Councillor…
Investing in Our Libraries
I’m really pleased to report that Devon has successfully secured £200,000 in grant funding from central government to support the modernisation of many of our libraries. This funding has been match-funded with £100,000 from Devon County Council and £100,000 from Libraries Unlimited, making a total investment of £400,000.
This funding will be used to install new technology in many of our libraries, improving access for residents across Devon - something that is used successfully in other parts of the country and is already being piloted in Cullompton Library, which is proving very positive. Following the extensive public consultation on the future of library services, the results are currently being considered. A full report will be discussed at Cabinet on 20th May, where decisions about the service will be made.
As cabinet lead for libraries, my preference is that we protect current library opening hours, invest extra money into transforming the service, and work with communities and local organisations to make libraries stronger and more resilient into the future. This is especially important now with Local Government Reorganisation on the horizon and the financial uncertainty this brings with it. I want to thank all of the library staff. I know this has been a very difficult and uncertain time and they continue to do an incredible job supporting our residents.
Train4Tomorrow – New Funding Secured
More funding has been secured to deliver Train4Tomorrow Skills Bootcamps across Devon. This is fantastic news for anyone looking to retrain, upskill or change career.
The additional funding means more adults will be able to access free, flexible training in key sectors. Please do spread the word to anyone who might benefit.
Local Councillor & Youth Grants
There’s some very good news for community groups and local organisations:
My locality budget is increasing to £10,000 this year. If you know of a project or organisation that could benefit, please do get in touch.
I’m also pleased to share that the Youth Grant scheme has reopened, with £160,000 available in small grants to support activities for young people aged 11–25.
Supporting Local Business: Visit to WM Ironwork Ltd
I was delighted to visit WM Ironwork Ltd in Newton Tracey, alongside North Devon MP Ian Roome.
Founded in 1977, this family-run business has grown from a small local workshop into one of the South West’s leading steelwork companies. They now employ over 100 people and deliver bespoke projects across the UK. While many will remember their agricultural roots (such as the well-known sheep turnover crate!), around half of their current work now focuses on balconies for the construction sector. It was particularly encouraging to hear about their apprenticeship programme, including meeting a female apprentice working towards a manufacturing qualification. Opportunities like this are vital for young people in our rural communities. We also discussed some of the challenges they face, including rising energy costs, skills shortages and the importance of fast, reliable broadband - an issue I am actively pursuing. Although just outside of my division, the company has strong ties to Torrington Rural and is a key local employer.
Visit from Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty
It was a real pleasure to welcome Professor Sir Chris Whitty, England’s Chief Medical Officer, to Devon and to have a very open and honest conversation about rural life.
We discussed challenges familiar to many residents: Lack of affordable housing, low wages, an ageing population, poor public transport, declining local services.
We also spoke about how increasing digitisation is deepening inequality, with essential services moving online and many people being left behind due to digital exclusion.
I raised the particular barriers facing young people in rural areas, including transport difficulties, limited training and job opportunities, and isolation. The pressures facing farmers were also an important part of the discussion- not just economically, but socially and emotionally. Sir Chris showed real interest in how traditional farming practices have shifted towards more isolated working patterns, and the impact this has on wellbeing. I also emphasised the ongoing importance of Young Farmers Clubs as spaces for connection and support.
What stood out most was that Sir Chris was genuinely listening. He acknowledged that national averages (such as those used in the Index of Multiple Deprivation) often fail to reflect rural realities. For example, car ownership may be treated as a sign of affluence nationally, when in rural areas it is often an absolute necessity.
It was a very valuable visit and an important conversation for Devon and rural England more widely.
Great Torrington Mayfair
Finally, I was honoured to take part in this year’s Great Torrington Mayfair, and especially honoured to be invited to speak during the formal proclamation ceremony.
The weather was glorious, the crowning of the May Queen was a joy to watch, and the children were absolutely wonderful. This year’s theme “Galileo: Sun, Moon and Stars” was a real delight, and they certainly shone brightly in the sunshine! Huge thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make the day such a success.
As always, please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’d like to discuss any of the above or raise a local issue.
Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin
Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs
County Councillor for Torrington Rural
Email: [email protected]
Contact no. 07495 367 801
Facebook: Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin for Torrington Rural

04/06/2026

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03/06/2026

Torrington AAC - Round the Tree 2026
We offer hearty congratulations to everyone who took part in Round the Tree this year, as part of the town’s Mayfair celebrations. For those of you who are seasoned runners, or running the event for the first time - very well done.
Provisional results are on our website - www.torrigtonaac.co.uk and finisher photos are on Facebook - www.facebook.com/TorringtonAmateurAthleticsClub.
A huge thank you to everyone who helped in big and small ways: marshals, Torrington Army Cadet Force, donations for prizes, and Diana and Nigel at Oak Park Farm for use of their tree, the Town Hall for use of their undercroft, power and Wi-Fi, compere Chris Tattersall and Torrington Silver Band for the loan of their PA.
Thank you to those who donated prizes, including RHS Rosemoor, Leanne Avery Personal Training, Torrington Swimming Pool, HPT Sport Running Man in Bude, Tarka Pottery, Ware’s meat vouchers provided by North Devon Trailers, AJ Opticians, Endurance Life Half Marathon and 10k entries - thank you all.
Finally, thanks to YOU the spectators. When you are running and tired it is YOU that make a difference so thank you all.
While we are here, huge congratulations also for the Couch to 5K group who completed their first parkrun at Bideford Victoria Park a few weeks ago - we look forward to helping them transition into the main club!
If you are interested in helping us behind the scenes for our running events then please get in touch. We run as a club on Wednesday evenings at 6.15pm from GTS car park and welcome runners of any age or speed (as long as you can run 5k/3 miles non-stop).

02/06/2026

Blast from the Past Car Show and Food & Craft Fair
June 21st 10am-2pm Clinton Hall, Merton
Vintage Rubys – Who are we?
If you have wandered through a North Devon event or visited a local market recently, you’ve probably spotted the unmistakeable pink and white stripes of Vintage Rubys caravan, or the bright pink gazebo, that is becoming a favourite at local events.
Founded by Carrieann and Terry, Vintage Rubys began as a simple idea: create a fun, family friendly treat stand that brings a splash of colour and joy to community gatherings. What started as a small setup has grown into a regular fixture at fairs, large events and seasonal markets across the region. Part of our ethos is to ensure all tastes and dietary requirements are catered for including vegetarians, vegans and gluten free with our signature milkshakes. We even look after your furry friends with our popular doggy ice-creams. We run a seasonal menu so include summer sundaes for the warmer weather and move over to indulgent hot chocolate in the colder months. Being versatile means we can bring the fun to any event all year round.
This year we branched out and started organising monthly food and craft fairs at the Clinton Hall, Merton. This provides another platform for high quality traders to showcase and sell their goods.
As a part of the June 21st event, we are running a ‘Blast from the Past Vehicle Show’ from 10am-2pm. As well as a lovely selection of cars we also have live music, BBQ, refreshments, facepainting, Lego building and of course our signature milkshakes.

01/06/2026

Beaford Open Gardens
We are raising funds for St. George & All Saints Church, Beaford.
Come and enjoy the peace and tranquillity in 10 of Beaford’s private gardens. They will all be open on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June between 2pm and 5:30pm.
Collect your map and buy your tickets on the day from Beaford Church, price is £6. Whilst visiting the church, you can enjoy the church’s festival of flowers.
Call in to the village hall during your tour where tea, coffee and cakes will be for sale.
You’ll also find plants for sale along the way.