North Devon District Council

northdevonThe magazine from North Devon CouncilRing and ride!How a mobility service is getting you out and aboutFood waste recyclingA major new service for North DevonSafety at the seasideTop tips on how to stay safe this summerIssue 13 | Summer 2009www.northdevon.gov.ukThis magazine costs 10p per edition to produce

Absolute Staffing Solutions - From shop floor to boardroomwww.absolutestaffingsolutions.co.ukinfo@absolutestaffingsolutions.co.ukNational Tel: 0844 561 0976 • Local Tel: 01271 346 10914 Gaydon Street, Barnstaple, EX32 7DNStaff – Your biggest asset, oryour BIGGEST liability?Need help with staffing issues?Absolute Staffing Solutionscan provide:Temporary, Temporary to Permanent,Part-time, Full-time. Warehouse,Production Line, Fork-Lift,Administration, Secretarial,Supervisors, Managers,Company Directors.• Genuine out of hours cover• We take up references on all our staff• If we can’t help we’ll tell you in 10 minutes• Over 27 years experience in staffing industryLooking for a job ? Email us your CV to:info@absolutestaffingsolutions.co.ukA6_advert_localfarmbox.indd 1 5/5/09 14:29:45Problems with your dentures or just want new ones?Want free advice? Call 01271 314770Only a ‘CLINICAL’ Dental Technician is allowed to treatpatients and make the dentures as well. He/she will listen toyour aesthetic wishes and cope with it to make a denture whichsuits you best and will give you the best long term solution.20a Newport Road, Barnstaple, EX32 9BG2 NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

northdevonSummer 2009contentsP4P5P6P7P8P9P10P11P12P13P14P15If you require this documentin an alternative format,please contact us.How to contact us:Editorial queries should be directed to:Claire Holm, North Devon Council, CivicCentre, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1EAPhone: 01271 388239Email: claire.holm@northdevon.gov.ukA to Z of council servicesTapping in to new mediaYou tell us - we’ll listenYour new food waste recycling serviceParking enforcement – one year onHelp for the local economyNew affordable homes on the increaseHelp getting out and about in North DevonYour improvements are coming to PiltonDon’t forget - your vote countsStay safe at the seasideRNLI Summer SplashGood character of North DevonDevon Games to InspireFestival fever returnsAdvertising queries should be directed to:Nick Cooper, Salt Media, 1st Floor, 5 CrossStreet, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1BAPhone: 01271 859160Email: nick@saltmedia.co.ukThe magazine from North Devon CouncilNorth Devon Direct is printed fromenvironmentally managed forests.Please recycle it or, better still, ‘re-use’it by passing it on. Thanks!What’s on in North DevonNew look for Fremington’s play areaGet your skates on!Gardening tipsOne month to the digital switchover!Seth’s SoundbiteNow available as a spokenversion - download thepodcast from our website.The opinions and views expressed in North DevonDirect magazine are not necessarily those of NorthDevon Council or Salt Media. All data contained inadvertisements, being subject to the AdvertisingStandards Authority guidelines, are accepted by us ingood faith at the time of going to press. Reproductionof editorial is strictly prohibited without priorpermission from North Devon Council. All rightsreserved copyright © 2009.Front cover image: Sonja Brent usingBarnstaple’s Shopmobility service.Welcome to ourSummer edition...You’ve no doubt noticed that thisedition has not been delivered throughyour door. You are reading it eitherbecause you have found it insideyour North Devon Journal or SouthMolton News, or you’ve picked it upsomewhere locally like a supermarketor Post Offce.The reason we have done this isbecause we found many peopleweren’t getting their copy and also,this new way of getting it out is savingus over £2,000 in delivery costs everyedition. We hope you agree that this isa much better, more cost-effective wayof getting the magazine to you.If you are reading this on THURSDAY4 JUNE, put the magazine down andget out and vote! Today is electionday in North Devon and you havethe opportunity to vote for your localDevon county councillors and yourmembers of the European Parliament(MEPs). You have until 10pm to getdown to your local polling station andhave your say on who you want tomake very important decisions aboutyour future. More info on this is onpage nine.In the last issue of North Devon Direct,we informed you of plans to moveour Waste and Recycling site at SevenBrethren to Brynsworthy. We wouldlike to clarify this only relates toNorth Devon Council’s vehicle andstorage depot and not the mainrecycling centre owned by DevonCounty Council.Finally, June is North Devon Festivalmonth! (Although they pack so muchin now that it has to start in May!)Turn to page 12 to get a flavour of thewonderful activities planned as part ofthis magnificent annual event.Claire HolmCommunications ManagerSUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 3

Council ServicesA-ZBenefitsSurname A – CRO Tel: 01271 388390Surname CRU – HAS Tel: 01271 388389Surname HAT - MAZ Tel: 01271 388396Surname MC – SHAK Tel: 01271 388384Surname SHAL - Z Tel: 01271 388395Email: benefits@northdevon.gov.ukBuilding ControlTel: 01271 388282Email: buildingcontrol@northdevon.gov.ukCar ParksTel: 01271 388279Email: customerservices@northdevon.gov.ukCouncil TaxTel: 01271 388361Email: counciltax@northdevon.gov.ukCouncillorsTel: 01271 388253/388254Email: memberservices@northdevon.gov.ukEnvironmental HealthTel: 01271 388870Email: customerservices@northdevon.gov.ukHousing AdviceTel: 01271 325757Email: housingadvice@northdevon.gov.ukLand ChargesTel: 01271 388406Email: landcharges@northdevon.gov.ukMuseum of Barnstaple & North DevonTel: 01271 346747Email: museum@northdevon.gov.ukPlanningTel: 01271 388288Email: customerservices@northdevon.gov.ukSafer North DevonTel: 01271 341200Website: www.safernorthdevon.co.ukWaste & RecyclingTel: 01271 374776Email: greensweepdirect@northdevon.gov.ukAll other Council enquiries...Customer Service CentreTel: 01271 327711Typetalk: precede with 18001Out of hours emergency number: 01271 388240Email: customerservices@northdevon.gov.ukFace to face: Civic Centre, BarnstapleAmory Centre, South MoltonIlfracombe Centre, IlfracombeCheck out our website!Take a look at www.northdevon.gov.ukTapping in tonew mediaYou may have seen changes tothe North Devon Council websiterecently as we are using new webtools to improve customer service .In response to your ideas from last year’s web survey, we nowhave an online ‘What’s on in North Devon calendar’. Using‘Google Calendar’ we can publicise more of your communityevents that normally appear in North Devon Direct. See page13 for details.Our website will also soon feature interactive maps to help youfind council services. You can already find any North DevonCouncil owned and/or operated car park using Google Mapson our website. We will introduce further maps overthe summer.Twitter, the social media web phenomenon, is a handy way tofollow and interact with us. Our Twitter page has news, jobs,events, traffc and other updates. Check it out at twitter.com/ndevoncouncilYou can now use the independent FixMyStreet.com websiteto report problems such as grafitti, abandoned vehicles anddog fouling to our Customer Service Centre. FixMyStreet willforward your report to us and we’ll deal with it as we wouldany other service enquiry.If you have any suggestions about our website, please call01271 388434 or email webmaster@northdevon.gov.ukYou tell us - we’ll listenOver the last year NorthDevon Council has beenreviewing its complaintsand compliments process.As a result, a newstreamlined systemhas been introduced toimprove the way customerfeedback is recordedand acted upon. Thenew system is being used by our Customer Service Centrefor the services they currently deal with, such as Planning,Environmental Health, parking and recruitment.As part of our review, we have also updated our web pages tomake it easier for you to make a comment online and find outmore about the process. New feedback leaflets have also beenproduced and are available from our Customer Service Centreoffces if you prefer to write to us with your comments.So if you want us to investigate anything that has concernedyou, or you’d like to tell us anything you consider we havedone well, please get in contact.Tel: 01271 327711Website: www.northdevon.gov.uk/customerservicecentreEmail: customerservices@northdevon.gov.ukIn person: Civic Centre, Barnstaple, The Ilfracombe Centreor The Amory Centre in South Molton4 NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

Your new food wasterecycling serviceA new weekly food wastecollection service is beingrolled out across North Devonthis summer, which will notonly benefit households, butthe environment too.The introduction of the service is inresponse to some concerns about thecurrent fortnightly wheelie bin service.It also means we’ll be able to recyclemore waste, helping reach the council’srecycling target of 50% by 2010.When does it start?The new food waste recycling serviceis being introduced in two stages:• from now - for householdsthat aren’t served by a wheeliebin service• later in the summer - forhouseholds that are on thewheelie bin serviceHow will it work?Every home is being given a smallkitchen caddy to collect ALL cookedor uncooked food waste. You maywish to line the caddy first with asheet of newspaper, a small amountof kitchen roll or a corn starch bag -do not use plastic bags.When it is full, place the waste ineither your green wheelie bin, or ifyou don’t have one you’ll be given anadditional kerbside caddy.Your green wheelie bin will becollected fortnightly as normal, withthe kerbside caddy emptied weekly.This waste will then be processedthrough a giant composter whichwill help cut the amount of wastegoing to landfill.If you have a green wheelie bin andwant to get rid of your food wasteweekly, you can also put it in yourblack wheelie bin – although it isimportant to note that this will notbe recycled.What wastecan go into thekitchen caddy?All food waste, including:raw and cooked meatand fish (inc. bones)fruit and vegetables(inc. peelings)*tea bags* andcoffee grounds*left -overs fromyour platesWhat wastecan go into thebrown bag?Flattened cardboard, including:corrugated cardboardcereal boxes* and othercardboard food packagingtoothpaste boxes*toilet and kitchen rolls*egg boxes* (not plastic)* These items can also be put into a home composter. Home composting is the bestoption for getting rid of certain food and garden waste. It is a simple and satisfying process,because not only does it reduce the amount of waste, but the compost can also be reusedin your own garden to help your vegetables and flowers grow.!theWhen the new food waste collection starts later insummer, cardboard MUST NOT be put in yourgreen wheelie bin. This is because it affects the newcomposting process. Instead, use your new brown bag forcardboard and put it out for collection with your greenrecycling box and green bag.If you have any further questions, please contact us:CALL 01271 374776 EMAIL greensweepdirect@northdevon.gov.ukWEB www.northdevon.gov.uk/greensweepSUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 5

Parking enforcement inNorth Devon – one year onIt’s been just over a year since North Devon Council took over responsibility for parking enforcement from thepolice. In that time, the council’s parking wardens have been working hard to improve parking problems in the area.Parking rules are there to help keeproads safe and traffic flowing. This in turnencourages visitors and ensures that localresidents and traders can go about theirbusiness without frustrating delays causedby poor parking.The council’s civil parking enforcementofficers cover the entire North Devon area,seven days a week, overseeing both carparks and parking on the street. Their jobis not just about handing out tickets to illegalparkers, they are also there to provideadvice to motorists and to act as eyes andears for other council services - such as reportinglitter and other street scene issues.North Devon Council enforces on-street parkingon behalf of Devon County Council. Moneyreceived from fixed penalty charges goes to theCounty Council and is used to fund local roadmaintenance, street lighting and enforcement.It is also used to update the road signs and linesin the area, to make sure they still display thecorrect information.There are lots of places topark legally in North Devonso make sure you don ’ tget caught out.We’ve been speaking to one of our parking wardens to findout what it’s like doing a job that sometimes gets criticismfrom the public. Here’s what they had to say...Have you noticed an improvement in theway people park since our enforcementbegan a year ago?Yes, definitely. The other day someone said to me, “Thankgoodness you’re doing Combe Martin now, it’ s a pleasure todrive through,” which is really good to hear. I’ve also noticedthere’s a lot less hostility towards us now – perhaps becausepeople have got used to seeing us and know that we’rehere to stay.What do you like about your job?I get to be outside in the fresh air all the time, even when itrains it’s better than being stuck indoors in an office!I like meeting lots of different people and it’s rewardinghelping people out – we act like walking tourist informationcentres, giving directions as well as advising people aboutparking, such as how to get a permit and simple things likeguiding them to a long stay instead of short stay car park,to save them money.Is it hard doing a job that many people dislike?Personally, no. People ask me, “how can you do that job?”or tell me to “get a proper job,” but I don’t let it bother me.To do this job you have to have a sense of humour and nottake it to heart.What’s the most difficult part of your job?The hardest thing is dealing with the general feeling weget from people that we’re just cash collectors for thecouncil. Abusive language and threatening behaviour aretoo common and I don’t think we get as much respect astraffic wardens did, because they were part of the police.Are there any common misunderstandings thatpeople have about where they can or can’t park?Some people think they can park anywhere! The basicproblem is that there weren’t enough traffic wardens for along time so people have got into bad habits. People sayto me “I’ve always parked here” or “I’ve parked here for thelast 20 years”, so it’s understandable they find it difficult tochange. People need to check the road markings beforethey park. If there is a line on the road, check to see whatthe signs say.WHO TOCONTACTNorth Devon CouncilDevon County CouncilTo pay a fine / to report illegal parking To apply for a resident’s parking permitTo appeal against a fine (in writing only) To query the signs and lines in your areaTel: 01271 388279 Tel: 0845 155 1004Email: parkingoffice@northdevon.gov.uk Email: environment@devon.gov.ukWeb: www.northdevon.gov.uk/parking Web: www.devon.gov.uk/parking6 NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

Help for thelocal economyNew affordable homes on theincreaseWe are all going through a difficult time at themoment with the economic downturn, but NorthDevon Council is doing what it can to help.We are currently working withlocal organisations to offer help tobusinesses and individuals acrossNorth Devon.The council can:• offer certain types of smallbusinesses a reduction inbusiness rates (for futherinformation call 01271 388361)• offer a start up/top upbusiness rate support schemewith extra top up for certaintypes of businesses (for moreinformation call 01271 388216)• pay our bills as quicklyas possible• offer competitive rental spacefor small businesses at theWoodlands Enterprise Centrein South Molton• give people advice and supporton how to apply for benefitsPlans are also being put together to meetthe long term needs of the local area sowe are ready once the economy takes aturn for the better.Our plans for the future include:• identifying future employmentspaces and sites• continuing with local developmentand investment to supportlocal industry• regenerating key areas in North Devon• providing extra funding to localservices that help people facingproblems, such as the CitizensAdvice Bureau and the North DevonVolunteer Service, who are currentlyexperiencing increased workloads• providing an initial business supportloan scheme for priority businessesin DevonThe council has also been working alongside other organisationslike North Devon+ to provide the best possible support. Together,a redundancy and business support task force has been created todevelop economic opportunities for the future.On a positive note, things are looking good this year for the local tourismindustry with healthy bookings as people choose to holiday at homedue to the weak pound. Some parts of the farming sector also seem tobe in a stronger position due to rising prices of finished stock.The council is continually looking into other areas where assistancemay be given in the future.It’s fair to say the housing market isgoing through some tough times.While it may be bad news for peoplebuying and selling, it’s good news forpeople waiting for affordable housing.House building in North Devon has droppedby a quarter in the last year but the numberof affordable homes being built is actually onthe increase. Almost a third of all new homesbuilt in North Devon last year were affordableas developers turn their attention to the socialhousing sector to keep them busy duringthe recession.Over the last year, the council has helpedcreate 102 affordable homes for local peoplein housing need throughout North Devon.Helping local families find a new home isfantastic but it also has a knock -on effect onour economy. For every affordable home thatis built we secure thousands of pounds ofgrant funding from the government – moneythat is invested in the local area. It also helpslocal developers and building contractorskeep going through the tough times.We have also recently agreed to work inpartnership with social landlord North DevonHomes to build new affordable homes oncouncil land in Barnstaple, Ilfracombe andNewton Tracey. This will enable a number ofafforable homes to be built for local peoplein areas where there is a desperate need formore housing. By working with North DevonHomes and other local landlords, we hope toachieve our target of 75 affordable homes,built entirely from grant funding from thegovernment, over the next three years.If you are in housing need pleasecontact North Devon Council ’ s HousingAdvice Centre on 01271 325757, emailhousingadvice@northdevon.gov.uk orcall in at 25 Boutport St, Barnstaple.We also run housing advice surgeries at theAmory Centre, South Molton on Fridays andat the Ilfracombe Centre on Wednesdays, bothfrom 10am - 1pm.You can also get more information fromwww.northdevon.gov.uk/housing.SUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 7

Help getting out andabout in North DevonThis year, North Devon Council has given agrant of £20,000 to Go North Devon and theNorth Devon Ring & Ride services to helppeople get out and about. Here’s how thismoney is being put to good use...Are you stuck at home and frustrated that youcan’t get out and about? Do you just need thatextra bit of help with your shopping?Ring & Ride may be just the ticket for you! If you can say ‘yes’ toone or more of the following then we can help:• I have no access to suitable transport• I have a permanent or temporary disability• I have difficulty in using public transport• I need that extra bit of help getting out of my houseRing & Ride is a regular door-to -door return service givingyou up to half a day in your local town centre, or on one of ourregular excursions. In Barnstaple you can also make use of GoNorth Devon’s Shopmobility service and hire a scooter to getyou around the town.Go North Devon is a service for anyone with a mobilityproblem who needs help to get around the shops inBarnstaple. Shopmobility has manual and poweredwheelchairs and electric scooters to use in the town andfriendly volunteers are also available if you require help to getaround town and assist with your shopping. Please ask fordetails when you book your scooter on 01271 328866.Ring & Ride is different because we travel on flexible routespicking you up from your door. Our minibuses are alsospecially adapted with a lift so that if you use a wheelchairor cannot manage steps, you can still get on and off the bus.Our drivers are always happy to give you (or your shopping!) ahelping hand into your house.Ring & Ride helps you stay independent and gives youhelp when and where you need it. It is an affordable, safe andfriendly service that helps you get out and about and makenew friends.Four Community Transport Groups provideRing & Ride services in North Devon providing regularjourneys to Barnstaple, Bideford and Holsworthy, and thechance to enjoy excursions and days out. For details of theareas covered by each service please contact them directly orvisit: www.devon.gov.uk/ring_ride_mapSonja’s Day OutMy name is Sonja Brent, I am a 39-year-old wife andmother of two from Barnstaple and I have chronic ME.For the past year I have been a member of Shopmobility. Usingthe mobility scooters around town while shopping has given meback my independence. Before, I had to make sure I always hadfamily or friends with me due to my balance problems and severepain that is constant.With Shopmobility I can now ring to hire a scooter and ride offinto town at my own pace.Many people assume Shopmobility is for the older generationwith mobility problems, as I once did. When I contacted themI found that they are there to help anyone of any age or mobility.• Sonja is helped onto the Ring & Ridebus by driver, Terry Chapple• Go North Devon’s Malcolm Readshows Sonja how to use the scooterCONTACT YOUR LOCAL RING & RIDE CENTRE• Sonja stocking up on local produce at Barnstaple Pannier Market - one of hermany stops on a busy day out and about in the town centre.Barnstaple & surrounds Braunton, Ilfracombe, Lynton Northern Torridge Southern TorridgeNorth Devon Ring & Ride Ilfracombe Ring & Ride Torridge Ring & Ride North Tamar Ring & RideThe Shopmobility Centre 149 High Street Ilfracombe 74a High Street Bideford 4, The Square HolsworthyAlbert Lane Barnstaple 10am - 2pm, Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri 9.30am - 12.30pm, Mon - Fri 10am - 1pm, Mon - Fri9.15am - 4pm, Mon - Fri t 01271 855951 (24hr ansafone) t 01237 423232 t 01409 259001t 01271 328866 e ilfracombe-transport@tiscali.co.uk e duncan.goodman@torridge-cta.org.uk e transport@ntcta.org.uke gonorthdevon@hotmail.co.uk w www.ilfracom.org.uk w www.torridge-cta.org.uk w www.holsworthycommunitytransport.co.uk8 NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

Your improvementsare coming to PiltonChanges are happening in Pilton and Bradiford thanks to the ideasand views put forward by local residents.Residents were recently invited to come along to an open day and discuss theirviews with the council and local ward members. The issues discussed includedconservation and heritage, new and improved use of green space, cyclewaysand footways and aspects of community safety. It was also an opportunity forresidents to raise any issue they felt needed the council’s attention.The day was a great success, with over 250 residents coming along to makesuggestions. Others who were unable to attend returned questionnaires orcontacted us direct to make sure their ideas were taken into account.With the information residents have given us we can make a real differencein Pilton and Bradiford so we thank everyone for taking part and helping toshape the future of their community.Based on the commentsmade we are currentlyputting together plansto focus on a few issuesand projects.These include:• a project about thecommunity’s heritage,creating a book ofresidents stories andphotographs• making a new heritage trail• improving parks andopen spaces• working with otherorganisations to provideadditional parking spacesfor residents• organising a CommunityAction Day at The Rock totalk about some ofthe issues raisedThursday 4 June iselection day herein North Devon.Today, you’vegot the chanceto vote for yourrepresentativeson Devon CountyCouncil andthe EuropeanParliament.Don’t forget ­your vote countsBy voting, you will get your voice heard. The candidates you help toelect are responsible for making decisions on your behalf.These decisions can influence all sorts of things from what is taughtat our local schools and what adult services we have, to global issuessuch as defence and the environment.If you do not vote, you are giving up control to those who do.So please, don’t forget, your vote really does count.For more information about the elections and to find out the results,visit our website www.northdevon.gov.uk/elections.SUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 9

Stay safeat the seasideIF YOU ARE HEADING TO THEBEACH THIS SUMMER, SPAREA THOUGHT FOR SAFETY.Last year alone, lifeguards for the Royal National LifeboatInstitution (RNLI) responded to more than 9,500 incidentsand helped more than 10,900 people on some of theUK’s busiest beaches.To help you stay safe, the lifesaving charity isoffering some essential beach safety tips tomake sure you remember your summerholidays for all the right reasons.1. Always swim at a lifeguarded beach2. Swim between the red and yellow flags3. Never swim alone4. Know your beach safety flags5. Never use inflatables in strong winds orrough seas6. Find out about the beach you’re going tobefore you visit7. Check tide times before you go8. Read and obey local hazard signs9. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the airand shout for help10. If you see someone else in trouble, tell alifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard call 999or 112 and ask for the CoastguardRNLI Beach Safety Programmes Manager, Kelly Keating,says:“You’re 500 times less likely to drown on alifeguarded beach, so we always recommend that peoplechoose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the redand yellow flags, where the lifeguards can see them.Those who can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach shouldfind out about their chosen beach before they go, readthe safety signs to make themselves aware of the localhazards. Most importantly, if they see someone in trouble,they should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard -but should not enter the water themselves.”Sunday 5 July, 1 – 5pmLandmark Theatre, IlfracombeA day of fun for all the family at Ilfracombe’sLandmark Theatre and Wildersmouth Beach!The RNLI’s guide to beach safety ‘On The Beach’ isAs part of the event, there will be rescue packed full of advice on how to stay safe this Summer.demonstrations, bouncy castle, refreshments, Get yours FREE by emailing beachsafety@rnli.org.uk orcompetitions and auction. calling 0800 328 0600. Further practical advice and tips on how to stay safe can be found at the RNLI’s website, For information phone 01271 862402.www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety.We’ll see you there!10 NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

aGoodcharacterof NorthDevonDevon Games to Inspire has the X Factor!X-Factor stars RuthLorenzo and Diana Vickerswill be appearing live onstage in Barnstaple in Julyas part of “Devon Gamesto Inspire”.Looking after the special qualities ofNorth Devon is very important to us.That’s why we are reviewing our localconservation areas to make sure weprotect the character of our towns andvillages for future generations.Earlier this year, character appraisals forWoolacombe, Mortehoe and Lake wereadopted by North Devon Council. Theyfollow public consultations last year wherelocal people were asked for their viewson the areas. As a result, managementplans are now being drawn up to set outhow these special historic places can beprotected and enhanced.A character appraisal of the Ilfracombeconservation area is currently taking place,with public consultation ending onFriday 12 June.To have your say, visit www.northdevonconsult.limehouse.co.uk/portal.Future appraisals are also planned for laterthis year. These will cover Barnstaple TownCentre and Newport, as well as Croyde,Georgham and Putsborough.The Devon Games to Inspire (GTI) 2009,hosted and organised by North DevonCouncil, will be held in Barnstaple onSunday 5th July 2009. The event is freeto attend and replaces the Devon YouthGames, which has run with great successfor the last ten years at venues acrossthe county.The singing sensations will be headliningon the main stage, behind the TarkaTennis Centre, to round off an afternoonof live music performances by talentedyoung bands from across Devon.In true Olympic style, the day will beginwith an opening ceremony. This willbe followed by a day of events andentertainment at Rock Park, the TarkaTennis Centre, North Devon LeisureCentre and Park School.In addition to the traditional DevonYouth Games sports like indoor athletics,cricket, tennis and tag rugby, GTI nowincludes cultural events and activitiessuch as dance workshops and streetsports on the new Rock Skate Park.The new events and activities have beenintroduced to reflect the links betweenculture and sport, in the run up to the2012 London Olympics and Paralympics.1,400 young people between the ages ofeight and 16 will be part of teams fromlocal authority areas across the county.The sports teams will be selected via aseries of trials and training sessions.• X factor finalists Ruth Lorenzo andDiana Vickers will be performing at GTIcooking inthe new eating outcook at home with a Riverford organic vegboxspend less money on your shoppingspend more time with your familyboxes from £8.35 - free deliveryRi v erf ordcall us on0845 600 2311w ei rn e v e ror visitwww.riverford.co.ukf r ei g h tSUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 11

‘One of the top 5 UK events’ The TimesThe North Devon Festival isback this summer for its 11th year.Once again, North Devon Councilis proud to be the main funder ofthis spectacular event.THE NORTH DEVON FESTIVAL IS A CELEBRATION OF ALL THAT THE REGION HAS TO OFFER. IT STARTED ONSATURDAY 23rd MAY AND RUNS STRAIGHT THROUGH UNTIL MONDAY 29th JUNE WITH MANY DIVERSEEVENTS BASED AROUND MUSIC, ART, SPORT, EDUCATION, THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, COMEDY, DANCE,THEATRE, FOOD, AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT.The North Devon Festival is funded byNorth Devon Council, with supportfrom Devon County Council and theArts Council of England.The line-up for 2009 includes famous facesSeth Lakeman, Sir James Galway, MarkThomas, Adrian Edmondson and PaddyAshdown. Other highlights of the festivalinclude the smash hit West End musicalCabaret, the all new Colourscape experience,special Darwin 200 events, InternationalStreet Theatre, the return of GoldCoastOceanfest with headliner Jason Mraz,Appledore Visual Arts Festival, BarnstapleFringe, Ilfracombe Victorian Celebrations,LLAMA Music Festival with Badly DrawnBoy headlining, Art Trek, Lapstock, FringeTheatrefest, and several Biosphere eventscelebrating the unique environment ofthe area.Last year the festival celebrated its 10thbirthday in style, enjoying its most successfulyear to date and was rated as one of thetop five events in the country by The Times.The team behind it all aim to build on thefestival’s reputation even more this year.Alan Dodd, Festival Director says: “The festivalis designed to celebrate and show off all theregion has to offer and is a really positive wayto let people across the country know whatgoes on here outside the school holidays.”Over the last 11 years, the North DevonFestival has attracted nearly a million peopleto participate in events, 40% of whom camefrom outside the region. This in turn hashelped develop the tourism of the area and,in the last five years alone, the festival hasgenerated an incredible £48 million for theeconomy of North Devon.Several of the events are inspired by theunique environment of the area, recognisedacross the world for its landscapes, wildlifeand culture. The dramatic North Devon coastis designated as an Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty and sits next to the sweepingmoorlands of Exmoor National Park. Both ofthese areas and North Devon as a wholeare included in the UK’s first UNESCOBiosphere Reserve.The festival unites the whole of North Devonand depends on the talent and initiative ofthe local people who give up their time toorganise and run many of the events. It’s thisvariety of community involvement mixedwith the top quality arts and entertainment,the familiar and eagerly anticipatedblockbuster events, and the spectacularsetting that makes the festival so special.THE FESTIVAL 2009 BROCHURE, DETAILING ALL THE EVENTS, IS AVAILABLE NOW!Get yours from the Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple, the Landmark Theatre inIlfracombe and selected outlets across the region. For further information visitwww.northdevonfestival.org or call 01271 32 42 42.12NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

What’s on671013232627until2730JuneBee Awareness Day11am - 4pm, Fremington Quay.Oldenburg Cruise11am - 2.30pm. Cruise the stunningExmoor coast from Ilfracombe, watchseabirds and hear commentary fromNational Trust staff. Adult £15 child £10.Evening Walk at Ilfracombe6pm. Four mile evening walk with theNorth Devon Ramblers. Starting atIlfracombe Harbour Aquarium. Hillyroute. For more info call 01271 863727Instow in Bloom’sAnnual Garden TrailFeaturing the RNIB sensory garden andexhibits. Visit a number of gardens inthe village and enjoy a cream tea in theParish Hall. £2 adults, children free.For more information contact Peter Yeoon 01271 861019.Barnstaple Organ &Keyboard Club7.45pm at Roundswell CommunityCentre. Concert featuring Byron Jonesfrom Bristol. Refreshments & raffe.Entry £5, members £2.Arlington Court Country Skills Day11am - 3.30pm. A celebration of localskills with demonstrations in shearing,spinning and shepherding with DavidKennard and local crafts and produce onsale. Normal admission applies.Summer Solar Event2pm, The Sportsman’s Inn, Sandyway,Exmoor. Learn more about our solarsystem and the galaxy we call home.Take a stroll and take in the fine viewsour planet has to offer within the ExmoorNational Park. Call 01643 831109 to book.Cartooned 3: EvolutionMon - Sat, 9.30am - 5pm at the Museumof Barnstaple & North Devon. Howcartoonists dealt with evolution in the19th century and how the conceptof evolution has influenced politicalcartooning over the past 150 years.Admission free.Coastal Rocks, Coastal Plants– Ilfracombe7pm. Find out about the historyrecorded in the foreshore rocks and learnabout the coastal flowers which adornCapstone Hill. Organised byDevon Wildlife Trust, Barnstaple LocalGroup. Adults £1, children free.45Sep571115&291818&192628JulyAugustWhere Land & Sea Meet:1 Plot to Plate LIVE!The South West Coast past,at Arlington Courtpresent and future11.30am - 4pm. Live cookery demos toMon-Sat, 9.30am-5pm at the Museumcelebrate the walled kitchen garden’sof Barnstaple & North Devon. A familyrestoration, with local celebrity chef,orientated exhibition, covering storiesMark Dodson of the Masons Arms, whoof the South West coast, from legends,will be cooking in the walled gardenfishing and shipbuilding to currentusing only Arlington produce and estateenvironmental issues. Admission free.lamb. Usual entrance fees apply.Butterflies & Flowers, 2 South West Birdman 2009near Parracombe11am-8pm, Ilfracombe Pier. Organised by2-5pm. Visit the butterfly fields, dampthe Ilfracombe Round Table. Come andpastures and old hedgerows aroundsee would-be aviators fling themselvesHigher Bumsley Farm, near Parracombe.from the pier in an attempt to ‘fly’ theAdults £1, children free. Bookingfurthest for charity.essential. Contact Paul on madgett@4 Chapel Hill, Brauntonhotmail.com or phone 01271 812617.7pm. Take a stroll along the old railwayCoastal Walktrack-bed and up to the ancient chapelMeet 10am at Bucks Mills car park.ruins, for views across Braunton to theFollow the coastal path with the Northestuary and beyond. Adults £1, childrenDevon Ramblers for a 7 mile walk.free. Booking essential. Contact Paul onCall 01271 863727 for more info. madgett@hotmail.com or 01271 812617.A Ranger for a Day10 Seaside SafariCarry out practical conservation work2pm for approx 2 hrs. Join a National Parkwith an Exmoor National Park Ranger.Ranger to find out ‘who is eating who’ inFREE. All tools and instruction provided.the rockpools and ‘what is hiding where?’Wear old clothes & sturdy shoes, bringFun for all ages. Meet on seafronta packed lunch. Under 18’s must beopposite cliff railway, Lynmouth.accompanied by an adult. Minibus 12 Rescue Day at Ilfracombe Pierpickup from Minehead, Dulverton and10am-4pm, Britain’s biggest EmergencyLynmouth areas by arrangement. CallServices display event. Meet the real-life07973 727469 for more info & booking. professionals and learn what it takes toCycle Racing at Chivenorkeep us safe. £5 adults, £2.50 children,7pm. Closed circuit racing for all£14 family ticket, under 4’s free.ages. Contact David Luggar on 01271Call 01271 883502 for more info.378788 or visit www.southwesttraining. 16 Moorland Ramblezoomshare.com for more info.Meet 10.30am at Hillsford Bridge NT CarWestleigh, Instow & West Yelland‘Community on Show’Annual summer fayre featuring amateurPark on A39 for an 8 mile moorland trackwalk with the North Devon Ramblers.Bring a picnic. Call 01271 863727 for info.classes in gardening, cookery and arts 25 Barnstaple Organ && crafts. Children & adult competitions,Keyboard Clubmarine and local artist exhibits, cream7.45pm at Roundswell Communityteas, BBQ, crepe stall and much more.Centre. Concert featuring Matthew BasonEntry £1, children free. For more info callfrom Northants. Refreshments & raffe.Pamela Cantle on 01271 861165. Entry £5, members £2.Arlington Uncovered:Archaeology to Architecture11am - 3pm. Discover Arlington’s secrets,from garden archaeology to the house’s • Where Land and Sea Meetarchitecture. Usual entrance fees apply.exhibition at the Museum ofDonations for National Gardens Scheme.Barnstaple and North DevonFun Dog Show11am. Ilfracombe Dog’s Trust FunDay and Dog Show at BrauntonRecreation Ground.Barnstaple Organ &Keyboard Club7.45pm at Roundswell CommunityCentre. Concert featuring Ian Griffnfrom Swansea. Refreshments & raffe.Entry £5, members £2.To include your community events in the Autumn edition of North Devon Directplease contact Mair Smith on 01271 388208 or email her at mair.smith@northdevon.gov.ukThe calendar is also available on our website at www.northdevon.gov.uk/whatsonSUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 13

New look forFremington’splay area• Four generations of the Davies/Smithfamily, enjoying the new parkBeechfield play area has afresh new look thanks to alot of hard work by thelocal community.The Fremington and DistrictCommunity Development Group raisedfunds for the new play area throughcommunity fundraising events. NorthDevon Council also helped to secure£35,000 of funding from the BIGLottery Fund towards the project withadditional grants from us and DevonCounty Council.The new play area on Beechfield Road was officially opened onthe 25th April by a group of local schoolchildren who won awriting competition about the new park.Children from Fremington Primary School also chose the designafter regular consultation with local community groups. Theplayground now includes sensory equipment and an accessiblesurface for children with special needs, as well as play equipmentdesigned especially for children up to the age of 16.• The official ribboncutters at Beechfieldplay areaGet your skates on!It’s here - the long awaitednew skate park at Rock Park,Barnstaple is now officially open!The skate park is the final part of RockPark’s redevelopment, which alsoincluded a play area and new toilets,completed in late 2007.Rock Park SK8 committee worked withengineers on the design that nowincludes a brick element to provide adifferent skating surface as well as afull size American fire hydrant feature,unique to Rock Skate Park.The regeneration of the new skatepark was funded by North DevonCouncil, Barnstaple Town Council,Devon Youth Service, the Bridge Trustand Barnstaple SK8 Committee.14NORTH DEVON DIRECT SUMMER 2009

JUNE• Prune shrubs that havefinished flowering, bycutting back floweredshoots to a healthy bud• Lift and divideovercrowded clumps ofbulbs after flowering,letting the foliage dieback naturally• Evergreen hedges andtopiary of Yew, Privet, Boxand Leyland Cypress canbe clipped and given alight feed of all-purposeplant food• Mowing should now bedone with the blades setlow, unless the weather isvery dry, when a mediumsetting will be better forthe grassGardening tipsAlan Beer, Parks and Amenities Manager,explains how to maintain specific areas ofthe garden during the summer months.JULY• Cut the stems of earlyfloweringperennials, likeLupins and Delphiniums,and apply a liquid feed,to encourage a second,smaller, flush of flowers• Water containers everyday in hot weather.Hanging baskets can bewatered twice a day ifyou’ve got the timeand energy• Deadhead bedding plantsand “repeat-flowering”perennials, to ensurecontinuous flowering• Trim your privet hedgeon a regular basis, astrimming it will create agood dense growthOne month to theDigital Switchover!Did you know that NorthDevon starts switching todigital television next month?Digital UK is warning viewers they mayneed to retune their equipment – or risklosing access to dozens of new channels.Switchover will happen in two stagesat the Huntshaw Cross transmitterserving North Devon – the first startsshortly after midnight on Wednesday1 July when analogue BBC Two will beswitched off. The BBC’s full range of digitalchannels will become available.Stage two will take place four weekslater on Wednesday 29 July.The remaining analogue channels(BBC One, ITV1, Channel 4 and Five) willbe switched off and replaced in digitalform along with more public-service TV,radio and text services.AUGUST• Trim lavender bushesonce the flowers are pasttheir best. However, youmay prefer to leave theseedheads, as Goldcrestadore the seeds and mayvisit in early autumn• Hardy Geraniums canbe cut back a little toremove tired leaves andencourage new growth• Take cuttings oftender perennials,such as Verbenas,Argyranthemums,Fuchsias, Salvias andPelargoniums• Before you go on holiday,arrange for someone towater your containers -move them out of the sunThe website www.digitaluk.co.ukhas plenty of information.You can also contact Digital UKfor more help and advice on08456 50 50 50.Thousands of older and disabledviewers in North Devon areeligible for assistance from theSwitchover Help Scheme.For more information about the Help Scheme,visit www.helpscheme.co.uk or call thefreephone number 0800 40 85 900Seth’sSoundbiteI tell you what, let’stry to forget all thedepression surroundingthe ‘depression’ andlook forward to a greatsummer in which we canenjoy all that’s fantasticabout where we live.If, like me, you’re looking to takethe family out on day trips or toevents in the area, then the NorthDevon Festival is definitely wortha look. No matter where you live inNorth Devon, there’ll be somethinghappening near you.For the past two years I’ve starredin the festival. Was it on stage? No.Was it with my outstanding artwork? No, as I can’t draw! Was it infancy dress messing around on afield with 21 other people? Yes, yougot it! Even a celebrity cricket matchmade it onto the festival’s billings!Talking of sport, young competitorstake part in the area’s ownOlympics, the Devon Games toInspire on Sunday 5 July. I’ll be thereto get the youngsters underway,and what better way to end the daythan with two fantastic performersfrom last year’s X-Factor on ITV1, asRuth and Diana take to the stage.I hope you’re ready for the switchto digital TV. It really is straightforward and you don’t have tospend a lot of money to be able tocontinue watching television.But remember... even with up to40 channels available, make sure it’sITV1 at 6pm each weeknight for theWest Country Tonight. Well, I wouldsay that wouldn’t I?SethSUMMER 2009 NORTH DEVON DIRECT 15