Burrator

BEACON January 2012

One of the new arrivals at Lady Modiford’s School, Walkhampton! The school has a number of chickens which the children care for and of course enjoy the eggs expertly used in recipes by School Cook, Anne.

2 Burrator Beacon

Editorial Jenny Sharp

Welcome to the latest edition of the Beacon. Christmas has been and gone, it did not feel

that Christmassy this year with no snow and the miserable weather we had but at least

there were no burst pipes to deal with like last year. However, as the local farmers keep

reminding me, snow in February is not that unusual so we will have to wait and see.

In the centre pages of this edition is the Draft Parish Plan, please take time to read John

Howells’ introduction to it on page 9 and then read the plan itself with his comments in

mind. Here is your chance to influence your Parish over the next few years.

There are some events to look forward to over the next few months, the Meavy

Pantomime, the Auction of Promises at Walkhampton in aid of Children’s Hopsice SW, a

Villages in Action event with Matt Harvey at Meavy and a guitar concert at St Peter’s

Meavy.

Publication Dates: we have decided to return to the usual publication dates for the

Beacon. It will be published at the end of March, end of June, end of September and

beginning of December. Copy deadlines are the 6th of the month except for the December

on when it will be 16th November. If you have any event that you want publicised please

be sure to tell me about it. If you would like to be added to my email mailing list that goes

out a week before copy deadline asking for things to include, please email me your details.

I know that it is useful to have reminders to do things even if they are on my calendar!

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Burrator Beacon 3

Clerk’s Report

Lucie A Luke – Parish Clerk

The Parish Council have received resignations from Mrs Anita Bickell (Dousland) and

Mrs Midge Wilkins (Meavy). Mr Mark Harding was successfully co-opted onto the Parish

Council in November to represent Meavy Village.

After a recent leaflet survey of Walkhampton, the Parish Council have agreed to support

the Dartmoor National Park Authorities proposal to create a Conservation Area in

Walkhampton.

Plans for 2012 include a refurbishment/overhaul of all Parish Property (seats, bus shelters,

trees etc) and this should hopefully be underway by the Spring. Many more works to the

Royal Oak Inn are scheduled. The Parish Council hope to create and finish a Parish Plan.

It is anticipated that a Planning Applicaiton will be forthcomming for an extension to

Yennadon Quarry. The Parish Council will work closely with the public to form its

reponse once details are received.

Please do take a moment to read through the proposed draft Parish Plan contained in this

edition and make any comments to me or the Chairman John Howells directly.

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For the best drinking on Dartmoor join us in the bar next to the

open log fire. We are renowned for the well-kept quality of our

real ales, but if tradition is what you are after, then you must try

our scrumpy cider. There is also a comprehensive wine list

available

4 Burrator Beacon

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Village Halls

Please support our local village halls for your meetings, parties and activities. All the halls

have disabled access and they vary in size and facilities so one of them will suit your

requirements. All the Halls are run by willing volunteers who strive to keep them in good

repair providing vital facilities for our communities.

Meavy Parish Hall Val Smith 855909

Sheepstor Village Hall Trevor Rookes 853862

Walkhampton Memorial Hall Michael D’Oyly 852268

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Burrator Beacon 5

Dartmoor Preservation Association

Fiona Senior – Volunteer Coordinator

What better way to get to know Dartmoor, Steven Spielberg’s “third character” in the

blockbuster “War Horse”, than by getting out and learning more about its history and

unique environment. DPA members and the general public are welcome to join in our

Conservation Work days this winter.

We have projects running at Devonport Leat on Roborough Down, clearing gorse and

scrub from the old waterway; at Raddick and Leeden Hills on the High Moor, clearing

gorse from archaeological sites; at our own land at High House Waste near Cornwood and

our award winning Cairn Survey and Repair team are spending a few wintery weeks

indoors at Princetown inking up their site drawings from last year.

If you would like to come along, or to know more please call the DPA office on 01822

890646 (not manned all days) or call the contact for the event you are interested in.

Thu 08 Mar, Devonport Leat Keith Ryan, 01752 405245 kpryan@btinternet.com

Wed 14 Mar, Conservation Day at High House Waste Val Barns 01837 840123

valeriebarns1@btinternet.com

Sat 17 Mar, Gorse Clearance at Raddick Hill Bob Bruce 01752 837564

Tue 20 Mar, Devonport Leat Keith Ryan as above

Thu 29 Mar, Gorse Clearance at Raddick Hill Bob Bruce as above .

We are looking at doing an article on what it is like to be a 21st Century teenager living on

Dartmoor and how they see Dartmoor in their future, for the next issue of Dartmoor

Matters, our publication. There is a short questionnaire for as many teenagers as possible

to fill in, to give us the basic information for the article. The wider spread of youngsters

we can get the better. You can request a questionnaire by contacting me, Fiona Senior on

fsenior@dartmoorpreservation.com

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6 Burrator Beacon

Information Wanted - Update

In response to the question about the building on the Dousland to Princetown Road as

posed in the last edition: Peter Hamilton-Leggett writes:

I have just read the Burrator Beacon and see that you are requesting information on the

construction outside Dousland on the Princetown Road. It is certainly not an ice house.

These were usually underground structures and of a totally different design.

The folly stands in the grounds of The Fold. It was probably built between 1923 and 1927.

Now roofless, the building was once thatched. The building blocks are far from uniform

and suggest that many had been previously used elsewhere. It is possible that the stones

were removed from the abandoned farms around Burrator when the inhabitants were

forced out of their farms by the Plymouth Corporation Water Works (PCWW) in the

1920s. The almost circular building has thick walls, is about three metres tall and has three

entrances and three windows.

Local tradition is that it was built as a children’s playhouse set well away from the house.

It may also have been used as a summerhouse. Most follies were built on high ground thus

giving a good viewpoint. This particular building is set on a lower hill slope suggesting a

more practical purpose.

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Burrator Beacon 7

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Keith Bowen 01822 855451 or 07547 421704

Theft of Salt Bags

Bill Andrew – Councillor

The Highways Authority have, for the benefit of our community, been delivering salt bags

along various routes in order to prepare for snow and ice conditions. They have placed

about 80 bags out. It has been reported that of these bags, some 24 have already gone

missing. Removal of bags for personal use is both antisocial and considered by the

Authority as theft. If parishioners see theft of bags taking place, it would be appreciated

that this is reported to Highways who will take action against the individuals. Contact

Details: 0845 155 1004 Weekdays 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-1pm

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8 Burrator Beacon

The Active Villages Project

Mhairi McCall

Short mat bowls, pilates, tag rugby, football, fencing, running, multi-sports and cricket –

these are all activities that the Active Villages Project has helped to set up in Lamerton,

Gulworthy, Princetown, Postbridge and Whitchurch. Now it is the turn of Meavy and

Walkhampton. Is there a sports activity you would like to do but it isn’t available locally?

Contact Mhairi McCall on mhairimccall@tiscali.co.uk or administrator@ocra.org.uk. The

Active Villages Project provides assistance, including funding, to set up new sports clubs

in your own village. It is for all ages – just let us know what you want to do!

Meavy Garden Society

Brenda Burt - Chairman

2012 sees the Golden Jubilee year of Meavy Garden Society. The Society meets on the 3rd

Monday in every Month (except Dec and Jan) at Meavy Parish Hall 7-30 pm where there

is free parking. We have a range of widely varied lectures are followed by questions from

the floor over a cup of tea or coffee. New members or visitors are always welcome. You

can obtain more information is on www.meavy.org.uk/mgs or ring Benda on 01822

852984 or Annie on 852672 or just come along. Our next two meetings are:

20th February: A.G.M. followed by Pauline and Peter Hamilton-Leggett to describe their

Yelverton garden.

19th March: Spring Fun Show when members display the results of their winter skills;

also with competitions to puzzle heads. Schedules from Brenda as above.

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Burrator Beacon 9

Dear Readers

In this edition of the Burrator Beacon there is a critical document that concerns every

household in the Parish. It is a draft proposal for a Parish Plan. You are invited to read it

and strongly urged to participate in ensuring that the final version really meets the needs

and aspirations of the widest possible section of the Parish residents. The draft spells out

what a Parish Plan is, why we need it, and how you can help frame the future of your

Parish. Issues fall into three groups: 1) those issues that can be addressed by the Parish

Plan and should be included in the Plan 2) those issues that could be developed by interest

groups and 3) those out of our control. Even when complete the Plan will need to be kept

under review. This first draft does not pretend to be complete and will need your

contribution to ensure all issues of significance are included in the final version.

It is very important that residents from all parts of our dispersed Parish involve themselves

in the process. This document is exactly what it claims to be, merely a draft edition to set a

framework for maximum participation by all in the creation of the final Plan. Parish

Councils are often and rightly criticised for not taking a stronger lead in matters that

directly affect residents. This document tries to ensure such criticism cannot be levelled at

your Council.

Whilst I have produced the outline structure of the Plan several Council members have

added amendments which they feel have improved the content. You are likewise invited to

do the same. Whatever your position, be it strongly in favour, or very much against the

contents, your view matters. Please do take the trouble to read what I have produced and

together we can move forward.

Responses can be made in several ways.

You can e-mail the clerk to the Council at theclerk@burrator.gov.uk.

You can send comments directly to me via e-mail at howells57@btinternet.com or by post

to John Howells 31 Manor Park Dousland PL20 6LX.

You can contact your local councillor directly and explain your concerns.

You can attend any Council meeting and address the Council at the beginning of any

Council meeting. The next full meeting is at Walkhampton on Thursday January 26th at

7.30.p.m.

Yours sincerely

John Howells.

Chair Burrator Parish Council. December 2011.

10 Burrator Beacon

This document is presented as a consultation paper to which all members of the Parish of

all ages are invited to respond. It is a personal view and not the definitive opinion of the

Parish Council. However it does set out to provide a basis upon which a final plan may be

established.

This document was presented as a personal draft of a Parish Plan to Burrator Parish

Council who agreed that it should be circulated throughout the Parish (John Howells,

November 2011).

A draft Parish Plan for whole community consultation

Introduction A Burrator Appraisal published in 1999 started by outlining the geographic context of our

essentially dispersed and ageing rural community. It stated that Burrator is one of the

largest and most sparsely populated parishes in England. In the year 2000 only 1545

people lived on 5945 hectares.

In the intervening years some additional accommodation has been provided. Most recently

a development at Knowle Terrace in Walkhampton created eight new houses and a second

opposite Walkhampton Village Hall is nearing completion. However Burrator Parish still

remains a sparsely populated and dispersed community. The other significant feature of

our Parish is that it is very fragmented. Four main settlements make up our area, Dousland,

Meavy, Sheepstor and Walkhampton. They are in many ways distinct and unrelated to

each other. There are also other outlining groups such as Hoo Meavy, Goodameavy,

Lovaton and Welltown to consider in this odd collection of population centres. Three

separate parishes were brought together as Burrator Grouped Parish for administrative

reasons rather than any tight ties of community. Thus to pretend that we can produce a

coherent Parish Plan based on a community with strong central bonds is unrealistic.

However what we can do is highlight some major issues that affect some of us some of the

time.

This document is a draft outline of what might constitute the major issues facing us at this

time. You are invited to read this Plan and comment on what is proposed. Every

household in the Parish will receive a copy, and everyone has an equal right to an opinion.

You are asked to send any comments you have on the Plan to the Clerk of the Council.

Once the comments have been analysed a second and hopefully final Plan will be prepared

by your Parish Council.

The Plan in Context Burrator in 2011-2012 faces a future of economic austerity. The scene is one of national,

regional and local cuts across virtually every aspect of public life. The downturn in the

economic outlook has already had an adverse effect across our Parish. We have seen the

Post Office/General Store at Walkhampton close. The Walkhampton Public House is

closed at the present time. Recent budget cuts have seen school bus transport reduced.

Unemployment at national level is the highest it has been for eighteen years. Meavy and

Walkhampton Schools have entered a federation. Bus services remain sparse. Petrol and

domestic fuel costs have risen well above the rate of inflation. Many parishioners on fixed

incomes are finding it hard to manage, whilst young people are struggling to find

employment. The Police Force has seen cuts. Health care is currently under review and is

the focus of intense debate about how it can cope with the future demands of an ageing

Burrator Beacon 11

population. Dartmoor National Park is itself under review. West Devon Borough Council

has just had a major staff review. Services are already shared with South Hams District

Council. Its budget, along with that of Devon County Council, faces major reductions. We

have seen many local industries close in recent months. Charity shops are a common

feature even in market towns like Tavistock. Water rates have long been a bone of

contention as they are so much higher than the rest of the country.

It is against this bleak background that we are facing the task of creating a Parish Plan. It

will have to take the economic situation very much to heart and be a realistic set of short,

medium and long term aspirations if it is to have any value. It is a valid question to ask:

“Why bother?” The answer to the question is this. If we do not show an interest in the

future of our Parish why should anyone else. Yes, times are hard; yes many aspirations

will inevitably have to be long-term. However, just to sit on our hands and play no part in

setting a planning framework for the future is apathy. We would be shirking our

responsibility for future generations. If you do not ask, you do not get. Our Plan may be

modest but it will hopefully give us a sense of belonging and hope for the future. It is in

this spirit that the following ideas are presented for your consideration.

Major Issues

Transport, Road Safety and Public Transport Cuts

(A key issue is the path from the Burrator Inn to Woodman’s Corner)

Yennadon Quarry (possible expansion Plans)

Lack of Everyday facilities.

Care of the Environment. (South West Lakes Trust.)

Community Spirit.

General concern about our capacity to cope in times of rising costs.

This is obviously a generalised list and in all probability not an exhaustive one. However it

is based on the most up to date information feedback we have on what people consider to

be the major issues in our Parish over which we as a community might have some

influence.

Transport

Issues include:

1. The on-going decline in the availability of a regular bus service.

2. The worry about the increase of speeding traffic, particularly on the B3212 at the

Burrator Inn junction and along Boundary Road.

3. There is a critical concern for personal safety of pedestrians attempting to walk from

Dousland to Yelverton. The section from Woodman’s Corner to the Burrator Inn is in

places narrow and contains blind corners. At this time of year it can be flooded. It is also

extremely dark. All this creates a very dangerous stretch of highway to walk at any time

night or day.

12 Burrator Beacon

4. The reduction in the verge cutting due to financial restrictions has created even more

narrow roads to negotiate for pedestrians and motorists alike.

5. Problems in coping with floods and snow inhibiting the normal use of our roads and

services. Both exacerbated by reduced maintenance of road gutters and drains.

Short Term Goals.

1. A new snow warden and volunteers scheme is currently being constructed by the Parish

Council in conjunction with DCC Highways department. When fully operational it should

provide salt across the Parish which can be made rapidly available to pre-empt and prevent

some of the problems such as were experienced in 2010/11 winter away from the roads

serviced by DCC Highways.

2. Yelvercare is a very useful service enjoyed by many local residents. Volunteers would

be welcome

Medium Term Goals.

1 .Last year a serious attempt was made by several individuals to form an emergency

committee that would spring into action in times of trouble such as flooding. Lack of

volunteers resulted in this committee failing to be established across the parish. A

community response to flooding was established in Walkhampton but the scheme should

be revisited with the aim of having an effective emergency plan and groups available

across the parish.

2. Speeding is an on-going issue and constant monitoring will be required. We should

remind highways and the police at regular intervals of the need to tackle this problem.

Long Term Goals.

1. The public footpath to Woodman’s Corner has been a long term goal of the Parish

Council over many years. Traffic calming ideas have been explored as have attempts to

talk to land owners to discuss possible solutions to this serious problem. They have all

failed. However the community will have to consider what future action to take to ensure

safety on the B3212 in particular. There appear to be no easy solutions. All ideas would be

welcome. An action group could be created to pursue this long held aspiration.

2. Bus service provision is obviously a financial issue and we are dependent on the

viability of routes to the bus companies. Concerned users need to make their feelings

known to the operators. It is the case of “Use it or lose it”.

Yennadon Quarry

Issues include:-

1. The operation of this site has raised several concerns over the past two years. Excess

noise, dust emissions, scars to the landscape with excessively high spoil tips and speeding

traffic on Iron Mine Lane have been some of the issues. Dartmoor National Park and

Maristow Estate have been made aware of these issues and regular site monitoring is

taking place.

2. There is every likelihood that plans will be submitted for a large extension to the site in

the very near future.

Burrator Beacon 13

Short Term Goals.

1. Constant monitoring of the site by DNP is essential, as is monitoring by local residents.

2. A public meeting is promised by the Parish Council if and when any plan for an

extension is submitted. This now looks highly likely. It will be no good complaining after

the event if planning permission is granted for a proposal that many do not like.

Participation in the process is vital.

Medium Term Goals.

1. In a few years the licence will be up for renewal. The public will want to have a voice

about the nature of any such agreement.

Long Term Goals.

1. Despite local concerns about the nature of the mining operation at the quarry it has been

a feature of the area for many years and does provide employment. The long term goal for

the community must be to arrive at a balance between the Quarry being able to operate in

a viable fashion whilst not impinging on the nature of the rural environment within which

it is set.

Lack of Everyday Facilities

Issues Include:-

1. Living in a rural environment brings both good and bad elements to everyday living.

There is the benefit of peace and quiet away from the bustle of a city. There is also the

isolation from necessary facilities. However we live in an age of technology and the

growing use of computers.

2. Many people do shop on line with the major food suppliers for their regular provisions.

Fibre optic broad band connection is not yet available and many would like to see its

installation to viable housing groups sooner rather than later. Many elderly people are not

up to speed with the new technology and thus shopping on line is not possible for them,

making their access to provisions problematic.

3. The ageing population now sees more and more elderly people living on their own.

Loneliness is a problem as is the limited money available for rising fuel costs.

4. Many have commented about the lack of facilities for young people. Whilst the scouts

and local football does provide some outlet the major focus for recreation for young

people is outside the Parish.

5. We have seen the decline in shops in the Parish. We have little control of this problem

as a business can only survive if it is economically viable.

Short Term Goals.

1. An interest group regarding technology could be established to push for better

connection. This could include sourcing old P.C’s for training non- P.C. users.

2. Attempts to provide local i.t. training for all members of the community could be

promoted. A local company does provide an excellent support system already.

3. A flyer has been circulated in the Parish magazine is see if a Meals on Wheels service is

required. Such a scheme would enhance a community spirit, provide necessary food for

14 Burrator Beacon

house bound residents and importantly give the recipients a friendly face with which to

share their day.

4. The Saturday market at Walkhampton has proved to be very successful, meeting many

of the aspirations of the community. We should continue to support this most welcome

development.

Medium Term Goals.

1. Provision for leisure activities for young people will only come about by people

volunteering to help. Perhaps a campaign involving young people could be generated.

Identification of suitable focal points for such activities in our disparate community must

be an early objective if the proposals are to receive universal support.

2. Setting up of the “meals on wheels” service. So far the response has been poor. This

may well be for two reasons. Firstly there is the built-in sense of independence and pride

by many who might benefit from such a scheme. Secondly many of those in need may still

be unaware of the proposed scheme. All members of the community are asked to spread

the word to see if such a venture would be worthwhile.

Long Term Goals.

1. If a community is to progress ideas it needs a strong vibrant local Parish Council that is

a good cross section of the area. The present Council still has vacancies despite repeated

pleas for members of the Parish to come forward. If we want things done then we have to

participate.

Care of the Environment

Issues Include:-

1. Burrator Parish is a large area. It requires vigilance just to keep things in good order.

There is at present some major work required in Walkhampton to ensure the bus shelter

and the Leat are in good order.

2. Many trees within the community centres are now growing out of control and will need

drastic action. These are just some examples of the on-going environmental maintenance

our landscape will need in the future.

3. Burrator Reservoir and the surrounding area are a major tourist and day trip centre of

our Parish. The road across the main dam is about to undergo a clean up after some

considerable time of neglect.

4. Care for the environment includes the housing stock. The recent history has proved

problematic in getting an agreement with the planning authority on exactly what new

housing is required and where it should be located. The Parish would want to be fully

involved at the very beginning in any future development plans. New development is not

to be dismissed out of hand but proper full consultation at every stage would be a priority

for the short, medium and long term aspirations of the parish Council

Short Term Goals.

1. South West Lakes Trust is preparing a new five year plan. The local community need to

respond to their requests to make an input into their plans. If we do not participate we

cannot then complain about the direction of the plans.

Burrator Beacon 15

2. Constant maintenance of our local environment is needed. The reporting of unsightly

issues to the Parish Council for action is also a key aspect for maintaining a healthy

environment.

3. The Parish Council has just inspected all of the public seats in the Parish with a view to

ensuring they are in good order to withstand the winter months.

4. There is currently a consultation in progress to determine if parts of Walkhampton

should be a conservation area. This issue will need to be resolved in the immediate future.

Medium Term Goals.

1. The general view of most residents is that they wish the environment to remain as

peaceful as possible. No change is sought to the rural nature of the Parish. However

increased pressure of traffic on our roads seems inevitable. A greater monitoring of traffic

and potential calming schemes may well be a possible area to pressure the relevant

agencies to explore.

Long Term Goals.

1. The Dartmoor National Park have no provision in their plans for any further house

building in the parish. The long term goal must be to do everything to ensure that the

environment remains one of rural tranquillity. This will involve keeping lines of

communication open with all relevant agencies.

Community Spirit

Issues Include:-

1. Given the nature of this grouped parish, as outlined in the introduction, one must look to

organisations that transcend the boundaries of the constituent villages. Thus the Twinning

Association is a good example where the whole community can come together. The

churches offer obvious communitywide fellowship. Several interest groups exist such as

those concerned with gardens and local history to name but two examples. Such interest

groups must be encouraged if a sense of community is to flourish.

2. Our Parish Magazine “The Beacon” is a most useful means of ensuring that the whole

community gets to know what is going on. Every support must be given to the editor to

ensure this vital organ of local information continues. Perhaps more of us should make the

effort to write articles to assist our hard-working and voluntary editor.

Short Term Goals.

1. Capturing the imagination of young people to take an interest in their local community

must be a priority if a sustainable community spirit is to be created. Every support must be

given to the limited youth orientated groups that already exist.

2. Support must be given to our local community halls to see that they remain a viable

financial operation.

3. The two remaining public houses are currently developing ways of attracting customers

with theme evenings, quiz nights and special events. If we want to see them as part of the

long term environment we must continue to support their efforts.

16 Burrator Beacon

4. The Meavy Drama group continues to provide a focus for local entertainment and it too

needs our continued support.

5. With an ageing population access to events can be problematic. More volunteers to

transport elderly residents to events are needed.

6. This Parish plan should be an expression of the views of the whole community as to the

future they would wish to see in our area. Thus everyone who receives a copy of this draft

is urgently asked to read it and where possible make a positive contribution. We will get

the plan we deserve. If it is shallow and lacking in direction and purpose we must

collectively share the blame.

Medium Term Goals.

1. Many are of the view that they do not seek radical change to the status quo. However a

vocal body of opinion seeks more community action. That can only be possible if we as

individuals contribute. Our Parish Council still has vacancies. This must be a medium term

objective to see every corner of the Parish is fully represented.

Long Term Goals

1. Long term it is hoped that the economic climate will improve so that inward investment

will return to the Parish. In particular the loss in recent years of local shops, and the

closure of the Walkhampton Arms, has seen such meeting places vanish.

2. Day to day human contact is the lifeblood of a community which is dissipated when

everyone needs to get in their car to get even the most basic of essentials. Thus concern for

ones neighbour will be a real necessity in the years to come.

General concern about our ability to cope in times of rising costs

Issues include:-

1. Sadly there are no easy answers to this major issue. In the coming years the Parish will

suffer the effects of limited economic growth and cuts like every other community. At

such times the answer as to how we will cope will very much depend on how we

collectively look after each other. The new “Snow Warden” scheme we are currently

developing is a good example of how, in difficult times, we can work together to face

problems.

2. Collective purchasing power is one way of tackling rising costs. The purchase of

domestic fuel such as oil can be cheaper if several households order together. Chimney

sweeping is a good example of neighbours getting together to get their chimneys all swept

on the same morning to ensure a discount. There could be similar bulk buying strategies

that may well be known to residents that could benefit many in the Parish.

Summary The Parish Council was given the task of producing a Parish Plan. The Plan will be the

property of the whole community. Please ensure that your views are represented in the

Plan by responding to this draft.

Burrator Beacon 17

Walkhampton Memories

Sue Andrew

In 1846, the following story was recorded by Rachel Evans in her book, Home Scenes, or,

Tavistock and its Vicinity:

A cheering frosty day in December once tempted three companions and myself, to

undertake a walk to the far off regions of Sheepstor... So we set off over Whitchurch

Down and Plaster Down, and through long lanes, whose hedges were glittering with the

fantastic tracery of the hoar frost, until we reached the pleasant village of Walkhampton. A

tribe of happy little urchins rushed from school, as we passed through the place; such rosy

healthy children, I have seldom seen. “Do you like school?” said I to one of them. “Nao,”

was the answer. “What! Do you not like learning to read and write?” “Nao,” again. “What

makes you learn then?” “Master thrashes us.” This “thrashing” system which has been so

often tried, is, I am afraid not the most effectual method of making learning agreeable.

Since the above pithy conversation, a less peremptory, but more seductive plan of tuition

has been tried at Walkhampton under the active and benevolent exertions of the clergyman

of the village. I have no doubt the children now make no difficulty of learning their

lessons, without the aid of the flail or the thrashing floor.

A story like this is a rich reminder of a time long gone, the benefits of a benevolent

clergyman, and a method of schooling which we might not wish to see return!

Recording memories in words and pictures is important for all of us, old and young. With

this in mind, we would like to set up an Archive, to record memories of Walkhampton,

including its people and buildings, to gather together old and new photographs and images

of the village, to research any aspect of its history, and to share this information in an

exhibition, and eventually, a book. The Walkhampton Archive will work best if lots of

people are involved, and if we join together in sharing memories and pooling our talents.

If you think that you would like to contribute to the Archive in any way, please contact

Sue Andrew on 01822 853008, write to Church House, Walkhampton, or email:

walkhampton.archive@hotmail.co.uk

CLASSY K9’s Professional friendly dog grooming service.

One to one personal care for every dog. All breeds/cross breeds welcome.

Call Paula 01822 853446

NICOLA MOULE Carpets

All Types of Carpets & Vinyls Supplied and Fitted The Complete Home Carpet Selection Service

Kingsmead, Burrator Road, Dousland, PL20 6LU

Tel. 01822 853569 07884 253419

18 Burrator Beacon

Rotary Club of Yelverton

Marion Luckhurst

Are you interested in supporting local and international charities whilst having fun?

The Rotary Club of Yelverton is looking for new members both male and female. We are

a lively club that meets once a week over a meal at the Prince of Wales in Princetown. We

are a particularly sociable group committed to charitable work but also having fun and

enjoying each other’s company.

If you would like to come along and see what we get up to with no commitment just give

us a ring on either: 01822 854404 or 01822 613461. You can also check out our website:

www.yelverton.rotary1290.org We hope to hear from you soon.

Children’s Hospice South West

Kathy Howard

Following the resounding success in 2010, Yelverton

Branch of CHSW are holding an Auction of Promises

at Walkhampton Village Hall on Saturday 27 February

2012. Doors open at 6.45pm and the auction will commence at 7.30pm. Tickets for the

evening, pasty, sweet and a drink cost £7.50 and are available from the Yelverton Post

Office, from Linda Landick on 01822 852142 or Sheila Glanville 01822 859215.

We have already had 40 offers of pledges ranging from dinner for 4 to gardening work to a

trip on a 40ft yacht but we hope to meet our target of 100 pledges!

Meavy Amateur Dramatics Pantomime 2012

Babes in the (Burrator) Wood

Evening Performances: Wednesday 8th to Saturday 11th February, 7:30

pm. Matinee Performance:

Saturday 11th February 2012, 3:00 pm. Meavy Parish Hall

Details: mad.meavy.org.uk

Burrator Beacon 19

Friends of St Peter’s Meavy - Concert

Mike Inman

Duo Volatus is an exciting dynamic flute and classical guitar duo composed of Ruth

Ballantyne and Alison Smith. Both musicians have performed nationwide and in Europe at

festivals and concert series and have broadcast live on Radio and TV. Together their

musicality, lyricism and energy creates a memorable musical journey. They captivate their

audiences with appealing and diverse programmes. Duo Volatus will be giving the concert

in aid of the Friends of St Peter’s Church, Meavy on Friday 30th March 2012 at 7.30pm

in St Peter’s Church, Meavy. Pre-concert suppers are available at the Royal Oak adjacent

to the church. Suppers can be booked direct by telephoning 01822 852944.

Classical, Celtic, Spanish and Latin American music will be featured in this concert.

Music by the Italian classical composer Giuliani and two movements from Bach’s

exquisite flute sonata no 2 in e minor will be performed and completely contrast with the

upbeat Argentinean Tangos of Piazzolla. The Histoire du Tango will take the audience

through a musical journey of the development of this popular dance. Celtic music will be

visited in several works. ‘A Touch O’Carolan’ which is a medley of tunes based on the

music of the 18th Century Irish Harpist Turlough Carolan and works superbly for the flute

and guitar combination. O Carolan had the ability to write haunting beautiful melodies as

well as rousing reels. The four tunes included are Blind Mary, Carolan’s Concerto,

Sheebeg and Sheemor and Carolan’s Draught. Greensleeves to a Ground is a beautiful

work based on the popular tune and Alone in the Rain is a nostalgic work by Tung and

Wong, specially arranged by Ruth and Alison for alto flute and guitar. The use of both

rhythm and exotic harmonies in the music of Granados and Sarasate demonstrates their

command of the Spanish character. Ruth and Alison will be performing Granados’ famous

Danza Espanola no 5 and Sarasate’s Playera. This should prove to be a highly enjoyable

evening.

Tickets are £9, cheques payable to “Friends of St Peter’s Church, Meavy” and can be

obtained from Mike Inman 01822 852672, Douglas Henderson 01822 855383 or Clive

McGavin 01822 854577 or by post: Douglas Henderson, Littlewood, Dousland, PL20 6LU

DARTMOOR RURAL SERVICES

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FOR MORE INFO PLEASE VISIT www.dartmoor-rural-services.co.uk or

TEL MATT - O7508 043 703 (EVENINGS- 01822 890 509)

20 Burrator Beacon

Villages in Action – Meavy and Sheepstor

Another 'Villages in Action' top quality professional artist - MATT HARVEY will be

appearing again after an extremely funny and successful evening in 2010. Matt Harvey is a

nationally acclaimed comic poet whose work is regularly featured on Radio 4 and in the

Guardian. Matt has received rave reviews for his touring shows and has appeared at the

Edinburgh Festival. Matt Harvey is 'very funny' - The Independent and 'not only funny

but tender and true' - The Guardian. Matt Harvey can be sampled on YouTube and is a

Patron of Villages in Action together with Noel Harrison, Michael Morpurgo and Richard

Stilgoe.

He will be at Meavy Parish Hall on 9th March 2012 at: 7.30pm. There will be a bar

available. Tickets cost £7.00 for adults and £5.00 for Children under 16. They are

available from John - 01822 855909 or Robert 01822 855523

If you miss Matt in March at Meavy (or if you enjoyed him so much that you would like

to see him again) then there is a second chance on Friday 18th May at St Leonard’s,

Sheepstor. This time he will be teaming up with up-and-coming Canadian performer

Tanya Davis. Tanya Davis is a poet, a storyteller, a musician and a singer-songwriter and

she fuses these elements together in a refreshing matrimony of language and sound, side-

stepping genre and captivating audiences in the process. With the release of her third

album, Clocks and Hearts Keep Going, in November 2010, she affirms her well-earned

place in the ranks of thoughtful and hard-working Canadian Artists. This album, like those

before it, features strongly Tanya's unique and vulnerable style, full of poignant lyrics,

catchy melodies, and expressive, if unconventional, arrangements. Since bursting onto the

Halifax music scene in 2006 with her debut, Make a List, Tanya has garnered praise from

industry, audience, and peers, as well as multiple award nominations, including one for her

sophomore release, Gorgeous Morning, for the 2009 ECMA Female Recording of the

Year. She is a 2 time winner in the CBC National Poetry Face-off as well as the Canadian

Winner of the 2008 Mountain Stage NewSong contest.

Details and tickets for the Sheepstor event are available from Patrick Drennan on 853186

John Boylett Electrical Services The Smithy, Meavy, Yelverton. PL20 6PJ. Tel: 01822 853456 / 07748 513469

Domestic Electrical Installations - Rewiring - New Builds - Smoke Alarms Consumer Units - Lighting - Electric Showers - New and Replacement sockets

All work tested, certificated and guaranteed Very Competitive Rates Friendly local service Part ‘P’ Elecsa Approved Contractor

Meavy Parish Hall

Easter Whist Drive Monday 2nd April 7:30pm

Pork prizes and Raffle

Tickets from 855909

Burrator Beacon 21

West Dartmoor Federation – Lady Modiford’s and Meavy

Schools

Gavin Hamilton – Executive Headteacher

As the days get crisper, it has been a very exciting start to a New Year at both Lady

Modifords and Meavy schools.

I have been fortunate enough to have been made the Executive Headteacher of the West

Dartmoor Federation of Lady Modifords and Meavy Schools for the next two terms. This

means a single report in the magazine with a bit about both schools.

For the first part of this term at least, I am trying to ensure I spent at least half the day in

each school so I can be available to parents whilst we all settle to the new organisation.

We are very lucky to have appointed Mrs Price-Lewis as the Senior Teacher at Meavy and

Mrs Wraighte as the Senior Teacher at Lady Modifords. They will be the first port of call

for anyone when I am not in school.

Both sets of staff have discussed some exciting ways of working as a federation for the

future but there certainly won’t be any radical changes. It is just good to have other

colleagues to share ideas with.

On Shrove Tuesday Lady Modifords are organising a pancake breakfast where the

community can buy a ‘cuppa’ and pancake for a small fee. The children will also be

making pancakes during the day and taking part in the traditional race around the village.

Meavy pupils are also making pancakes in their classes during the day and are excited by

the prospect of sharing these with parents straight after school for a small fee. So there is

plenty of scope to get a fill of pancakes!!

Some of the older pupils at Meavy will be doing their ‘Bikeability’ training at the end of

the month. This helps to keep the children road aware and safer on their bikes. Lady

Modifords will be doing the scheme later in the year.

Meavy PTA and the ‘Friends of Lady Modifords’ are also staging some joint activities as

well as independent ones. There was a ‘Burn’s night’ celebration on Friday 27 January

with the usual trimmings of haggis, taties and neaps!! The children are also getting

themselves ready to ‘throw some shapes’ (!) at the Valentines Disco on 10 February which

is, incidently the last day before half term.

REVIVE THERAPUTIC MASSAGE Relax in your own home or in a therapy room in Hoo Meavy with a Swedish Massage from

an ITEC qualified therapist. LADIES ONLY.

Prices from £15 for 30 minutes. Gift Vouchers available.

Joanna Wallis ITEC Dip CThA 07989 300079

jo.wallis@walk-our-way.co.uk www.walk-our-way.co.uk

22 Burrator Beacon

Yelverton & District Local History Society

Nigel Rendle

The Society has another full & exciting programme of monthly talks & walks for 2012.

Following on from the "Roman South West" by Derek Gore in January, the next 3 months

are as follows:

Feb 21st Historical Murders in Devon - a talk by Simon Dell

March 20th Sale of the Century - the day the Duke of Bedford sold Tavistock - a talk by

Gerry Woodcock

April 17th The Mariners' Way - Dartmouth to Bideford - a talk by John Risdon

All our talks are at Meavy Village Hall starting at 7.30pm, everyone is welcome - non-

members £3.

We are hoping to publish a new Journal in 2012 & would welcome articles of interest from

members & friends. Please send any contributions to the Chairman. Nigel Rendle, 01822

853260, chairman@yelvertonhistory.org.uk Full details of our events programme & other

interesting information can be found on our website www.yelvertonhistory.org.uk

Meavy Friendship Group

Jumble Sale Meavy Parish Hall

Saturday 17th March

1pm

‘Lambing Live’ ‘Experience our Sheep Maternity Ward in Action’

By popular demand

From Mon 19th to Fri 23rd March 6pm to 8pm Booking essential numbers limited

Educational schools, groups, etc. by arrangement £4 per adult £1 per child (5+)

The Lambing Shed Greenwell Farm Nr Meavy Yelverton PL20 6PY

01822 853563 or email greenwellfarm@btconnect.com

Burrator Beacon 23

Dates for your Calendar

February

4th

Walkhampton School Nearly New Sale, Memorial Hall, 14:00 – 17:00

8th

- 11th

Meavy Pantomime, Babes in the Burrator Wood See page 18

20th

Meavy Garden Society AGM and meeting See page 8

21st History Society Talk, Meavy, 7:30pm See page 22

23rd

Parish Council Meeting Walkhampton 7:30pm

27th

Hospice SW, Auction of Promises, Walkhampton. See page 18

March

6th

Meavy Parish Hall AGM 7:00pm Ros Tall 85222

6th

Copy Deadline for Spring 2012 Edition of Burrator Beacon

9th

VIA Matt Harvey, Meavy Parish Hall, 7:30pm See page 20

19th Meavy Garden society Spring Show See page 8

19th

– 23rd

Lambing Live See page 22

20th History Society Talk, Meavy, 7:30pm See page 22

29th

Parish Council Meeting Walkhampton, 7:30pm

30th

Duo Volatus Guitar Concert, St Peter’s Meavy, 7:30pm See page 19

April

2nd

Jumble Sale Meavy 1pm See page 22

17th History Society Talk, Meavy, 7:30pm See page 22

23rd

Dartmoor Border Morris, Burrator Inn, 8pm

26th Parish Council Meeting, Meavy, 7pm Annual Parish Meeting

May

18th VIA Matt Harvey and Tanya Davis, Sheepstor, 7:30 See page 20

June

6th Copy Deadline for Summer 2012 Edition of Burrator Beacon

9th

– 10th

Sheepstor Open Gardens – More information in the next edition

To have your event included in future issues please send details (date, time location,

contact name and phone number) to the Editor as soon as you have decided on the date.

This will ensure maximum publicity and avoid clashes with other events.

Parish Council Meetings

Full Council Meetings are usually held at 7:30pm on the last Thursday of the month (but

not always!), the dates of the next few meetings are:

23rd Feb Walkhampton

29 March Walkhampton

26th April Meavy

The Planning, Finance and Royal Oak Inn Committees meet on other dates throughout the

year – please contact the Clerk: theclerk@burrator.gov.uk for more details.

24 Burrator Beacon

BURRATOR GROUPED PARISH COUNCIL List of Members and Telephone Numbers (Area Code 01822)

Meavy Village Walkhampton Village

Mrs Bridget Cole 853563 Mr Bill Andrew 853008

Mr Mark Harding 855279 Mr Chas Symes 853782

1 Vacancy Mr David Wright 852252

Meavy Dousland Walkhampton Dousland

Mrs Carol Cowell 855493 Mr Phil Cater 853121

Dr John Howells (Chair) 853865 Mr Neil Morrison 854880

Mrs Jackie Moorhead 854800 2 vacancies

1 vacancy

Sheepstor Clerk to Council

Mr Tim MacDonald (ViceChair)

Mr Keith Scrivener

854884

854518.

Mrs Lucie Luke The Apartment, The Old Bedford Foundry, Lakeside Tavistock, PL19 0AZ

614278

Email: theclerk@burrator.gov.uk

West Devon Borough Councillor for Burrator Ward: Diana Moyse 820407

Published and issued quarterly, free of charge by Burrator Parish Council. The next

edition will be published end of March, copy deadline 6th MARCH. Copy to be sent to

the Editor, Jenny Sharp, 8 Marchants Way, Meavy, PL20 6PW, email:

jennysharp@meavy.org.uk, tel: 853652

If you require this publication in large text please contact

the editor: Jenny Sharp on 853652 Burrator Parish Council is a body which complies with the Freedom of Information Act

2000. Contact the Clerk, Mrs. Lucie Luke for specific details about parish business.

Advertising: Local events are publicised free of charge. Businesses and clubs and

societies (which have membership fees) can advertise in the Beacon and should contact

the Editor for advertising rates.

Burrator Web Site: The Burrator Parish Website is http://burrator.gov.uk/ You can find

details of meetings plus other information.

The opinions expressed in the Burrator Beacon are not necessarily those held by Burrator

Parish Council. Every effort is made to ensure that information in these pages is accurate.

However, the Council cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. Including

information does not imply recommendation and any subsequent contact is made at

readers' own risk.