The Gittisham Community Kitchen served up its first meal on 21 st July 2022 to an eager and curious 35 members of the community. It has now been running for just over a year and save for three occasions when the hall has been booked out we have provided a free meal to all comers every single Thursday evening. In the first year 1,490 people have come to the meals, an average of nearly 30 per week. There have also been hundreds of ‘take-aways’ provided to people who couldn’t attend or who fancied some leftovers for the next day. Having the Community Kitchen running in the Village Hall has benefitted the Hall Committee coffers by just under £1,500 in direct cash payments and by way of grants from EDDC. And with the help of further grants from EDDC, the Beaumont Charity and the Parish Council, GCK is still holding funds which will enable us to keep going well into our second year. Here’s a very simple breakdown of the accounts over the year: Donations from diners £1,849.16 Grants and other gifts £1,845.94 Total £3,695.10
Less Cost of Hall Hire (paid direct) £ 435.00 Equipment £ 68.23 Cost of food £2,392.21 Total £2,895.44
We couldn’t do it without the donations of food that we are able to call on week after week. The wonderful fresh veg from The Pig courtesy of Peter the kitchen gardener and plentiful supplies of bread which would otherwise go to waste from The Ottery Larder. Also we’ve been really lucky to be given loads of pheasant from local shoots, delicious seasonal puddings that have been donated by the ‘pudding fairies’ and others, and numerous other wonderful offerings in response to urgent cries for help on the day! Feedback shows that the benefits of GCK have been numerous and varied. Alongside providing hot nutritious meals every week for an average of only £1.61 per meal, people have really benefitted from the chance to meet up and socialise with their neighbours on a regular basis. Anyone who was able to listen to Fiona Clampin’s brilliant radio piece on Farming Today in January will have recognised some familiar voices and, hopefully, agreed with the sentiments expressed. My thanks go in particular to those who have gone out of their way to help make it all a success: Kate, Mike, Alex, Julia, Neil, Stella, David & Sue, Claire, Bill, Amanda, Maggie, Molly, Pierre, Betty and everyone else who has stepped into the breach.
Please contact me by text on 07939 148762 or by email to if you would like to contribute to the kitchen either with food or financially. And……we are always looking for helpers to take over the cooking or to give the regulars a break from the washing up and clearing up at the end of the evening.
A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael’s Church and Gittisham Parish Council
What’s On? Pierre’s Cafe Sunday 8th Oct at the Village Hall 07545 214940 Village Fete Saturday 2nd Sept 2-5pm Community Kitchen Every Thurs, village hall 6.30pm. All welcome to enjoy a free meal and good company Harvest Supper Saturday 7th October at the village hall Gittisham Folk Dancing (like a barn dance or ceilidh) Join a friendly group of people of all ages with live music and a caller to guide you through each dance. £5.50 per evening 8pm-10.15pm gittishamfolkdanceclub.org FOOD BANKDonations are always welcome to the box in the church porch
Our wonderful fete is back on Saturday 2 nd September, with all the usual entertainment and much, much more. Something for everyone, even dogs and ducks! Entry is £2 There are still tables available for crafts and tradespeople Can you help with parking or serving teas on the day? There’s arota so please get in touch if you can.
Gittisham Flower and Produce Show Thanks to all who organised this event and who helped on the day. The highlight of the day was of course the potato weigh-in, with Sarah Abbot the happy winner. What’s the secret Sarah? Other prize winners: Marker Cup: Len Abbott Homecraft: Anne Holley Reg Chown Cup for best exhibit in show: Shared between Len Abbott and Anne Holley McCann Cup: Kadence Hulbert Tony Spiller Shield: Sarah Abbott Wakley Cup for best flower in show: Anne Holley Men’s Cup: Will Wolsey Best Cake: Bill Griffiths Junior Cup: Maverick Cheffey Infant Cup: Cleo Howe
St Michael’s Church and Honiton Mission Community St Michael & All Angel’s Church Patronal Festival Village Fete SONGS OF PRAISE Thank You Service Sunday 3rd September at 4pm 200 Club Would you like to join the 200 club and help to fund the upkeep so necessary for this old church. It takes a lot to keep it heated (especially with the increasing cost of energy) and watertight, keeping the churchyard in good order and kind to nature. The cost is £12 per number per year. The draw takes place at the beginning of each month with 5 prizes £40, £20, £15, £10 and £5. Twice a year there is a 6 monthly prize of £48 (March and September). Contact Janet Twist 01404 45484 Exam Results Good luck to all those getting school and college exam results this month. Best wishes for whatever the future brings for you all.
No Swimming No Swimming The Bettislake pothole highlights the challenges facing Devon County Council, with the largest Highways network in England at something over 12,000km to maintain. Much of the roads have begun life as little more than cart tracks with no real foundation, then covered and recovered in tarmac type surfacing over the years and subject to the vagaries of massive increases in traffic flow and weather. Reporting of potholes is encouraged through the website Report a Pothole. https://www.devon.gov.uk/roadsandtransport/report-a-problem/ Evening buses The Stagecoach 44A bus service will be running in the later evening from September Leaving Exeter and stopping in Heathpark (not running through the village): Exeter 20:30 to Heathpark 21:23 From Honiton, stopping in Heathpark and then on to Exeter (not through the village): Heathpark 22:49 to Exeter 23:35 Check the Stagecoach website for accurate information.
Gittisham Village Hall The hall is available to hire privately with special rates for parish residents. £10.90 per hour £31.30 for a morning or afternoon £43.15 for the evening Details are on www.gittisham.org.uk or contact 07854 492347 to make a booking. School Uniform The Ottery Larder has a huge selection of uniform for our local schools. All are welcome to take from their supplies. It’s all about recycling and saving money. Please see their website or facebook page for details of opening times. Parish Council – no meeting this month
Gittisham Village Hall Committee 2024/25 (April 2023)
Gittisham Village Hall Equality and Diversity Policy 1.0 Introduction Gittisham Village Hall is committed to encouraging a supportive and inclusive culture amongst its community by creating a positive place where everyone can enjoy an environment which is safe, enjoyable and respectful. This policy reinforces our commitment to providing equality and fairness to all in our hirers and volunteers and to avoid less favourable facilities or treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, ethnic origin, colour, nationality, national origin, religion or belief, or sex and sexual orientation. We are opposed to all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. 2.0 Gittisham Village Hall’s Commitment Our aim is to ensure that all hirers and volunteers are given equal opportunity and that our organisation is representative of all sections of society. All hirers and volunteers will be treated fairly and with respect. We will provide help and encouragement to develop all our staff to their full potential and utilise their unique talents. When we select candidates for the Hall Committee or other volunteer positions, it will be on the basis of their aptitude and ability. We are committed to: Creating an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of everyone are recognised and valued. Creating an environment that promotes dignity and respect for everyone. Not tolerating any form of intimidation, bullying, or harassment, and to avoid hiring the facility to those that breach this policy. Making training available to all volunteers where appropriate Promoting an inclusive culture for all our community and the people that we serve. Encouraging anyone who feels they have been subject to discrimination to raise their concerns so we can apply corrective measures. Encouraging everyone to be treated with dignity and respect. Regularly reviewing all our practices and procedures so that fairness is maintained at all times.
We seek to promote diversity and inclusion and to respond to the needs of all individuals in a fair and equitable manner, whilst observing our commitment and responsibility to current legislation. 3.0 The community’s responsibilities All hirers, volunteers and village hall event attendees are required to assist us in meeting our commitments, to ensure equality, diversity and inclusion and avoid unlawful discrimination. We consider acts of discrimination, harassment, bullying or victimisation as unacceptable behaviour and hirers supporting this behaviour will result in the hall not be available to hire to those persons in the future. 4.0 Grievances If you consider that you may have been unlawfully discriminated against, you may contact the committee Chair (NICK CHAPMAN) or any member of the committee to make a complaint.
SECTION 1 Introduction Everyone has a duty to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults. This policy promotes good practice in safeguarding for those using Gittisham Village Hall facilities. The Village Hall Committee will review it annually. Definitions Children and young people: Anyone under the age of 18 years Vulnerable Adult: Anyone over 18 who is: • Unable to care for themselves • Unable to protect themselves from significant harm or exploitation • Or may be in need of community care services To whom this policy applies • This policy applies to anyone working for or on behalf of the Village Hall Committee whether in a paid, voluntary or commissioned capacity, for example contracted to do a piece of work. • It also applies to any individual using the Village Hall facilities for the purpose of delivering any service to children, young people or vulnerable adults. SECTION 2 Promoting a safe environment In order to promote a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults, the Village Hall Committee will: • Provide safe facilities and do regular safety assessments. • Ensure that employees, councillors and leaders of activities in / on village hall facilities, are aware of the safeguarding expectations. • Ensure that the policy for users of village hall facilities includes a requirement that they are safe to work with children, young people and vulnerable adults. (eg, any adults who have regular unsupervised contact with children, young people or vulnerable adults during the course of their duties should undergo appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service checks.) • Ensure that attendees at village hall events are aware that parents are responsible for their children’s safety and the location of a dedicated safe place for lost children is clear. • Display on notice boards the relevant safeguarding contacts for advice and help. Use of facilities by groups for use with children, young people or vulnerable adults The Village Hall Committee will require the leaders to: • Have public liability insurance. • Have a suitable safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adult policy and/or agree to work to the Village Hall Committee’s policy and relevant guidance. • Ensure leaders make their members aware of the Village Hall Committee Policy and ensure that it is followed whilst using parish facilities. • Ensure leaders have valid enhanced DBS checks as appropriate and know where the first aid box is. • Do risk assessments for individual activities. SECTION 3 Safe working practice All users of Village Hall facilities must follow the safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adult’s policy and procedures at all times. For example they should:
• Never leave children, young people or vulnerable adults unattended with adults who have not been subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. • Plan activities to involve more than one person being present or at least in sight or hearing of others. Alternatively, record, or inform others of their whereabouts and intended action. • Where possible, have male and female leaders working with a mixed group. • Ensure registers are complete and attendees are marked in and signed out (under 8s must be collected by a parent/carer). • Ensure that photos or videos of individuals are not taken without written permission from parents/ carers. • Ensure they have access to a first aid kit and telephone and know fire procedures. Ensure that where a child, young person or vulnerable adult needs assistance with toilet trips and when first aid is required, that this is carried out in pairs or in the latter case, that it is carried out where they can be seen. • When working outside, ensure activities, breaks and clothing are suitable for the weather conditions and that shelter is available where possible. Expectations of behaviour All users of Village Hall facilities should: • Ensure that communications, behaviour and interaction with users should be appropriate and professional. • Treat each other with respect and show consideration for other groups using the facilities. • Refrain from any behaviour that involves racism, sexism and bullying and in addition to report any instances of such behaviour as appropriate. SECTION 4 Allegations against staff and volunteers • All staff and volunteers should take care not to place themselves in a vulnerable position with a child or vulnerable adult. • If an allegation is made against a volunteer, the person receiving the allegation will immediately inform the Chair of the Village Hall Committee. • The Village Hall Committee should follow the relevant council procedures for managing allegations against volunteers. No attempt should be made to investigate or take action before consultation with the Local Authority Designated Officer. Whistleblowing All volunteers should be aware of their duty to raise concerns about the attitude or actions of colleagues and appropriate advice will be sought from the local authority. What should be a cause for concern Volunteers should be concerned by any action or inaction, which significantly harms the physical and/or emotional development of a child or vulnerable adult. Abuse falls into four main categories and can include child sexual exploitation and female genital mutilation:
Physical Abuse
Emotional Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Neglect All volunteers coming in to contact with children need to have an awareness of safeguarding
After the tough covid times of 2020 and 2021 it’s great to see the Village Hall bookings returning and the hall being used again.
We have a good cross section of regular bookings, including the dance club, yoga, Pierre’s kitchen, and keep fit. We are also very fortunate to have the popular Community Kitchen as a regular weekly booking. Thanks to all regular groups who book the hall and to Sara Trumper for getting the community Kitchen up, running this year.
Through the year the committee have arranged some excellent events including our regular quizzes, the return of the ever popular Burn’s Night, skittles, an antiques evening, Father’s Day BBQ – in perfect weather and with a live band and the coronation celebration – attended by many from outside the direct village.
A special thanks too to the Parish Council for applying for the initial community Kitchen grant and also for financially supporting the Coronation event. A special thanks too to Carol Hall for pushing the Hal on social media, resulting in more one off and regular bookings.
Over the course of the year we have managed to keep up with the expenses, that have risen sharply due to big changes in gas, electricity and water bills. Costs are expected to be higher still during the coming year but it is hoped with the extra income from existing and new bookings we will be able to keep pace. We have been and will be reliant on grants to reach a break even point.
We are very fortunate to have new members to the committee, with special mention to our Treasurer, Janet Twist for keeping the books in order and to Alex Rowe for his exceptional hard work in supporting events.
For the coming year we really hope to extend the reach of the village hall well into Gittisham Vale and Hayne Farm and put on events for the whole parish.
As chair I would like to extend my thanks to all of those on the committee, those who helped when called upon outside the committee and those who have recently left. It is your support, enthusiasm and dedication that makes our village hall such a desirable and friendly place to get people together. We must aspire to more private booking and parish events.
We really need and would welcome more members to grow the number and range of events that we put – to allow us to keep the important community assets running. This is a hall for the whole parish.
About 18 months ago the Parish Council approached East Devon District Council with a view to rewilding some of the parish open spaces. The result of this is that the area on the corner of Hayne Lane and Old Elm Road was proposed as an area of wildflower, and work started recently, beginning with scarifying the planting area. Seeds will be sown, and for a few weeks the area will look bare. Once past this initial period there will be a sea of colour year after year.
GOREN FARM EX14 3EN Looking for somewhere to go where you can get close to nature and relax for the day? Then look no further than Goren Farm, a rural idyll nestled in the foothills of the Blackdown Hills. They give you a map and point you in the right direction to start your stunning nature trail walk amongst 70 acres of wild flowesrs teeming with butterflies and birds. They also have a Woodland Adventure trail. Just follow the mown paths. Dogs welcome (on a lead!). Back on the farm, there’s a trampoline, hammock and monkey bars to keep children entertained whilst you sample the cider in our working cider museum. There’s a walled vegetable garden for you to wander around and a café selling delicious homemade Devon cream teas and cakes and a selection of teas or enjoy a pint of cider! and ice creams Open from 11am Wednesday to Sunday. £7 entrance for meadows for adults and £3 for children, Goren Farm Ex14 9EN ____________________________________________________________________________________
PIERRE’S POP-UP SUNDAY CAFÉ SUNDAY 11TH JUNE
At Pierre’s monthly pop-up café on Sunday 11th June in Gittisham Village Hall, he will be serving roast glazed pork, accompanied by a vegetable gratin. Vegans and vegetarians will also be catered for, with homemade burgers wrapped in cabbage leaves. There’ll be a selection of tempting cakes and desserts, as well as freshly made croissants and pains au chocolat. Come and try our homemade elderflower cordial for a refreshing drink, and let’s hope the weather stays sunny so people can sit outside. To book lunch, please call Pierre on 07545 214940 or email Doors open at 10am. _____________________________________________________________________________________ OPEN GARDEN Richard and Nellie Marker opened their Garden at Beech Walk over the weekend 19/20/21 May in aid of various charities including Hospisecare and the NGS. There was a lovely cream tea with cake and the sunshine made it a perfect day. I understand they raised over £4,000.00. Congratulations to all concerned. __________________________________________________________________________
GITTISHAM VILLAGE HALL NEWS
Events are run by the Village Hall Committee throughout the year and aim to make a bit of a profit to keep the hall running and of course to provide fun and socialising for us all. The Hall is also available to hire privately and details of this are on the gittisham.org.uk or contact Carol Hall on 07854 492347 to make a booking. Sunday 18th June, Father’s Day Bar-b-q
OUR TRADITIONAL COUNTRY GITTISHAM VILLAGE FETE SATURDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER Please keep a look out for the next meeting – to be announced via the village WhatsApp – and come along to give ideas and help out. The more, the merrier, it would be nice to get back to one of our traditional fetes, please put the date in your diary. Regards Hamish
“This year’s fete is being held on Saturday 2nd September 2pm till 5pm and will hopefully be a good afternoon out for people who come along as well as raising money for our St Michael’s Church. Since February a small working group has been putting together a plan for the afternoon and as it stands the main attractions are Honiton town band kicking off the event at 2 o’clock from then on there will be stalls around the village, classic vehicles around the church green with a flower festival happening within the church, at 3pm we will be holding a “very” competitive dog show so get training! Then at 4pm-ish the infamous duck race will take place! Hopefully that give you a rough idea of what to expect and I’m trying to add in a few more exiting bits so keep an eye out for that – www.gittisham.org.uk/fete If anyone who is able to volunteer with the •Setup •Sign painting and leaflets •Duck Race •Admisions and Carparking, •Manning a stall (Tombola, ice cream, plant stall & cake stall), •Cake baking, •Refreshments, •Packing away etc. Please get in touch Thank you for your support hopefully it will all fall together. Alex Rowe
_________________________________________________________________________ DEVON AIR AMBULANCE NEEDS YOUR HELP “The Devon Air Ambulance needs a community of volunteers to keep our 19 charity shops open and our emergency helicopters flying. Could you spare an hour or two to help your local shop? We have a host of tasks which need to be completed to make our shops a success. You do not have to have any previous retail experience as we offer friendly support, training and encouragement. So why not give volunteering a go and arrange a trial session at one of our shops. We also have other volunteering opportunities, from event support, delivering community talks, box collections through to one off projects and supporting our Head Office operation. If you would like to support a much loved local charity, help to save lives and meet new people, we would love to hear from you! To find out where your nearest shop is and how you can help, please contact our VolunteerEngagement Officer, Charlotte Fleetwood on 01392 466 666 or email ”
______________________________________________________________________________ THE TOM PUTT APPLE
Last month we heard about the Tom Putt apple trees that have been planted in the churchyard. Here’s a bit more info about this very special apple variety: By Carol Hall.
“Tom Putt” is a traditional variety of dual purpose apple, often used as a cider apple, originating in Devon. The apple Tom Putt was supposed to have been named for an 18th-century landowner, Thomas Putt of Combe (Combe House, Gittisham), who died in 1787 and was nicknamed “Black Tom”. Putt, a barrister, is reputed to have perfected the variety and is also said to have won prizes for his fruit trees at agricultural fairs in Honiton.
GITTISHAM’S NEXT MONTHLY COFFEE GET-TOGETHER SATURDAY 17TH JUNE It would be lovely if I could have some volunteers to help with our get togethers each month, (3rd Saturday) if you could offer help please contact me Carol 851113 thanks. June 17th, Margaret and Michael Hawkins have kindly invited us to their home 21 Cypress Close, Gittisham Vale, EX14 2YW for our coffee get together from 10.30 – 12.00. Parking slightly limited. July’s will be back in the parish room on Saturday 16th 10.30 – 12.00 ______________________________________________________________________________ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH ANDTHE HONITON MISSION COMMUNITY(M.C.) Thank you to all who undertake sides-peoples duties, I am not sure how long it is going to take for me to get fully up and running again or when I will be driving again. Forthcoming services for June, 4th none 11th Eucharist, 18th none, 25th lay led morning worship. Julia organised a lay led post Coronation service on the 7th May at which 14 adults and 3 children attended, the hymns were very appropriate for the happy occasion.
18th June,Father’s Day bar-b-q 12.30 at the village hall £6.50 adult, £4.00 secondary age child and free for primary age child. Vegetarian available, bring own drinks. Booking or information St. Paul’s Honiton Weekly services still continue to be at 11.00am The website (honitoncofe.org) is updated regularly and has news about services, there is also a link to the Gittisham website. The monthly Mission Community newsletter Around the Parishes is available by email or post from the Parish Office see below for details. As our MC churches are now having their own services, Sunday Morning Eucharistic Worship at 11.00am, in St. Paul’s is also being live streamed. If you would like to join this service do please contact the Parish Office and the link will be forwarded, or ring, 01404 44035 messages will be replied to when someone is available, Mollie the Church administrator is there on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9.00 to 12.30. Coffee and biscuits are served in the church on Tuesdays and Saturdays 10.00 – 12.00 and after Sunday services, donations are welcomed. Details of the other M.C. church services can be found in the Around the Parishes under each church and the service details including Readings and Collects for the month and will certainly be helpful if you join the live streamed Sunday service. St. Nicholas, Combe Raleigh Has a new church project which was launched over the Coronation weekend. They intend to install a stained-glass window in the church as a memorial to her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Pledge forms are available for anyone who would like to contribute and as a huge incentive, all individual pledges are being matched by an anonymous donor. If you’d like further details please phone 47156 or 43166 Awliscombe & Weston Fete is booked for Saturday 17th June at 1.00pm. at the Otter Inn with stalls, games, teas etc.
200 CLUB RESULTS JUNE 1st Olive Collis 2nd Sarah Agg-Manning 3rd Karen Loveland 4th Richard Marker 5th Sara Trumper
I am no longer running the 200 club, Julia Barratt has decided that Janet Twist and Angie Hutchings are to take it over. If you would like to join the 200 club which is one way of funding the upkeep so necessary with this old church which takes a lot to keep it heated (especially with the spiralling costs for energy) and watertight, keeping the churchyard in good order and kind to nature, please ring Angie Hutchings on 07774 146209 or Janet Twist 01404 45484 they can send or email the application form. The cost is £12 per number per year. The draw takes place at the beginning of each month with 5 prizes £40.00, £20.00, £15.00, £10.00 and £5.00. Twice a year there is a 6 monthly prize of £48 (March and September). Payment can be made by cheque, cash or preferably Standing Order, there is a form for your bank. They can email both the application and Standing order forms if required or print them off for you, please let them know ______________________________________________________________________________
DID YOU V0TE IN THE LOCAL ELECTIONS? the Conservatives won by only 7 votes, the smallest margin for a very long time. I hope you remembered your id, the first time this has been required and the two tellers were new to the village. PARISH COUNCIL – JUNE 2023 REPORT
Six councillors met for the June meeting. Two members of the public were also present.
Broadband.
Faye Cross, Community Liaison Officer for broadband provider Airband, explained that
the company is joining forces with Connecting Devon and Somerset to bring superfast
broadband to previously excluded communities. The company plans to install new
infrastructure, which would likely include poles. The aim is to complete this work in
Gittisham by the end of 2024. Members welcomed the proposals, but felt the timescale
might be too ambitious based on previous experience, combined with the challenges
presented by the village setting, AONB, listed buildings and land owner negotiations.
Finance. Members agreed the finances, as well as the annual accounts and
governance statement for 2022/23.
Crimes. March 2023: no reported crimes.
Church Mead bridge.
Maggie Walker explained that following a visit by EDDC staff and contractors, work will
begin to install a pedestrian footbridge with disabled access, and the existing bridge will
be dismantled while repairs take place. Residents and visitors will have to park
elsewhere during this period, which is expected to last approximately one month.
Planning applications.
a) 23/1056/FUL Unit B Weston Park Devonshire Road Heathpark Industrial Estate –
installation of vents and flues on north, west and east elevations, removal of window on
north elevation
b) 23/1009/FUL Landscores Cottage EX14 3AU Single storey extension to dwelling
and general purpose agricultural barn
c) c) 23/0110/LBC Charlies Cottage 1 Beaumont Cottages EX14 3AG – Replace all
windows to match existing with slim line double glazing; gas central heating; Install
underfloor heating system to the entire ground floor; Block up doorway on north
elevation; New window on north elevation to kitchen.; New internal doorway between
dining room and created bedroom/office.; New window on east elevation to create
bedroom/office; new conservation roof window to the new bedroom/office on east
elevation; Open up the fireplace for an investigation, reinstate fireplace. Radiators at first
floor.
Councillors resolved to have no objections to the three applications, and particularly
welcomed the proposals in c) to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Combe Farm Shop licensing application.
Councillors expressed serious reservations about the application to sell alcohol seven
days a week, including evenings. They considered it an inappropriate location for
reasons including access, lack of lighting, impact on adjoining residential properties,
crime and disorder, and an increase in traffic and pedestrian movements (especially in
the vicinity of Hayne Lane).
Scams.
Janet Twist reported that there are cold callers going round park homes in East Devon,
to ask if people are interested in purchasing insulation. There has also been a rise in the
online impersonation of brands. The advice is to type the address of a website you wish
to use, rather than choose from a search engine.
Old Elm Road.
Councillors welcomed the news that wildflower seeds have been sown at the bottom of
Old Elm Road, with further plans to start tree planting along the strip of land that backs
onto Ferndale Close later this year. EDDC has leafleted neighbouring properties to
inform them.
Next meeting. Thursday 6 th July at 7.30pm in the parish room. _______________________________________________________________________________
Rev’d Sue Roberts
Bishop Jackie has kindly encouraged Rev’d Sue to take a somewhat overdue sabbatical this year. she was all set to take it in 2020, but Covid-19 put a stop to that. “I was reluctant to take it so soon after being off last year, but have been assured that it is absolutely in order.” To help in the Mission Community while she is away, from 1 Sept—30 Nov, Rev’d Tracey Voisey from the Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Axminster, will be joining the Honiton Mission Community. Tracey will be the Acting Team Vicar while The Revd Prebendary Sue Roberts is away.
THE GITTISHAM GAZETTE DISTRIBUTION I am hopefully finished with hospital stays but would appreciate offers of help to deliver round the village and to the few homes in Cypress Close, Ferndale and Laburnum plus the Gittisham Vale bus shelter as am currently not allowed to drive, as my vertebrae keeps breaking, fingers crossed I shall be able to use my car soon. I would like to thank everyone who has taken me to appointments or to the shops, and with my walking not too good either, I hope to be able to finish using the wheelie walker soon.
If you wish to receive the Gazette by email or by post do contact me 851113, 30ish copies are usually put in the Vale bus shelter The Gazette can also be found on the Gittisham Website https://gittisham.org I apologise to those who do not get the Gazette and do my best to print as many as I can on my own printer but as I can’t go upstairs yet I have to rely on someone bringing the printing down.
EDITOR / DISTRIBUTOR: Carol McCann 01404 851113/07946409142 . if you have events or news items including pictures, for inclusion in the gazette from the village, the Vale or Hayne Farm Estate, do please email it to Carol as early as possible, copy date for the July edition is 27th June the Gazette will hopefully be ready by the 8th July.
A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael’s Church and Gittisham Parish Council
Dates for your diary
__
Pierre’s Cafe
Sunday 14th May at the Village Hall
07545 214940
__
Village Fete
Saturday 2nd September 2-5pm
__
Coffee Get-Together
20th May in the parish room 10.30-12
200 Club Results
April
1st Ann Stansell
2nd J Lawrence-Jones
3rd Nellie Marker
4th Sarah Abbott
5th Nicky Wakley
May
1st S Agg-Manning
2nd Ernie Wensley
3rd Karen Loveland
4th Christine Broom
5th Gary Pester
Gittisham Celebrates the Coronation
Gittisham Village Hall Committee and the Parish Council held a Coronation Party on Saturday 8th May
Starting with live screening of the coronation in the morning and then there was a free bar, bbq for people to cook their own food and a funky disco with DJ Alex. There was much merriment which went on until late. What a lovely way to celebrate such a momentous occasion, the crowning of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
God save the King!
Tom Putt
Two Tom Putt apple trees have kindly been planted in the churchyard by Paul Wakley along with several spring bulbs and he has kindly agreed to look after them.
Gittisham Gazette
Open Gardens – Children’s Hospice South West
Would you be interested in hosting an “open garden” for Children’s Hospice South West?
Gittisham is such a beautiful village and seems to be just the sort of place where people might enjoy opening their gardens either to the public or just to friends and family to support a very good cause.
Please contact Tina Lunt if you are interested 01404 234086 or 07341 153409. She can arrange posters.
Pierre’s Café
Sunday 14th May at the village hall.
Pierre will be serving a Chicken Casserole lunch from 12.30-4pm, followed by dessert. Vegans and vegetarians will be offered Salsify Ragout. There’ll be the usual selection of homemade croissants and pastries in the morning as well as delicious cakes, including gluten free options. Doors open from 10am. Please book to avoid disappointment and to give Pierre an idea of numbers 07545 214940. Bring your own drinks.
People in the news – new arrivals
Stephanie and Peter King have welcomed Rory Joshua Marker King on April 17th.
Hattie and Ollie Harrison have welcomed Huxley Jamieson Max on 2nd May.
Elizabeth and Jurgen Heddes have welcomed Owen on 4th May.
Gittisham Village Hall
The evening of Gittisham Games. Table tennis and duckpins, with Ploughman’s and soup and then afterwards West Country Skittles. Very successful and well attended. Laughter and jollity throughout. Hoped to be repeated again soon.
Events are run by the Village Hall Committee throughout the year and aim to make a profit to keep the hal running and of course to provide fun and socialising for us all.
The hall is also available to hire privately. Details are on www.gittisham.org.uk or contact Carol Hall to make a booking 07854 492347
Gittisham Village Fete
Saturday 2nd September
A call out to crafts and tradespeople who might be interested in having a pitch at this year’s village fete in Gittisham.
Also looking for volunteers that could help with the setup and running of the fete.
Please get in touch with Alex
Coffee Get-Together – Forward Notice
For June 17th, Margaret and Michael Hawkins have kindly invited us to their home 21 Cypress Close, Gittisham Vale EX14 2YW 10.30-12
St Michael’s Church and Honiton Mission Community
Services for May 14th Eucharist, 21st none, 28th Lay led, June 4th none, 11th Eucharist
Julia Barratt led a coronation commemorative service after which a toast was raised to the king with a glass of prosecco.
Combe Raleigh are holiday a plant sale on Sunday 14th May 2-5pm in gthe garden of The Barton just behind the church. This is always worth a visit as they have excellentplants and reasonable prices.
At St Pauls there will be a Eucharist to celebrate the wonderful feast of the Ascension on Thursday 18th May at 7.30pm. They have achieved their Bronze Award from Eco Church. This was quite a process and very grateful thanks went to Jane Scriven, Julia Beaman and all the working group who put in so much time to enable this to happen.
Weekly services still continue to be at 11am. The website (honitoncofe.org) is updated regularly and has news about services. The monthly Mission Community newsletter Around The Parishes is avilable by email or post from the parish office 01404 44035
Christian Aid Week is 14-21 May. Cream tea 4.30pm and Christian Aid Serice after at about 5pm Sundat 21st May at St Pauls. The envelopes will be placed on the bench in churcg and some will be delivered around the village. There will be some in the Vale bus shelteer and the few houses that normally get them.
Church Warden Retirals: Honiton’s Lyn Thatcher, Buckerell’s Penny Pear and Cotleigh’s Pam Lane have all retired from being Church Wardens. They have each held the position for many yearfs and we wish them well in their retirement.
200 Club
Would you like to join the 200 club and help to fund the upkeep so necessary for this old church. It takes a lot to keep it heated (especially with the increasing cost of energy) and watertight, keeping the churchyard in good order and kind to nature. The cost is £12 per number per year. The draw takes place at the beginning of each month with 5 prizes £40, £20, £15, £10 and £5. Twice a year there is a 6 monthly prize of £48 (March and September). Contact Janet Twist 01404 45484
Parish Council April 2023 Report
Six councillors met for the April meeting. Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) and nine members of the public were also present.
Horses.
In his absence, Phil Twiss (DCC) sent a report outlining the county council’s support for the British Horse Society’s (BHS) “Dead Slow” road safety campaign. The aim is to educate motorists on how to approach and pass horses safely on Devon’s roads, with
the posters advising drivers to reduce their speed to a maximum of 10mph and leave at least two metres space. Since 2018, around 375 incidents involving equestrians on Devon’s roads have been reported to the police and the BHS.
Voter ID Don’t forget your photo ID to vote in the local elections on 4 th May. This is a new
requirement for anyone visiting a polling station. This will apply to:
• Local elections
• Police and Crime Commissioner elections
• UK parliamentary by-elections
• Recall petitions
From October 2023 it will also apply to UK General elections.
Finance. Members agreed the finances.
Crimes. Feb 2023: no reported crimes.
Planning applications.
a) Batts Cottage, Gittisham – Remove existing front door and frame and replace with new on front (south west) elevation. No objection.
b) Batts Cottage, Gittisham – Proposed shed / studio building to replace oil tank and fenced enclosure. No objection.
c) Blamphayne Sawmill, Gittisham – Proposed storage building for timber. No objection.
d) Gittisham Farm – Construction of earth-banked slurry lagoon. Councillors resolved to have no objection to d) in principle. However, members had concerns over access for large farm & construction vehicles via Chaghayes (Shaggys) Lane, and would like use to be mitigated where possible.
Village play area.
The Chair explained that in order to obtain S106 funds allocated to the parish council for sport, leisure and play, it had had to go through a public consultation process mandated by EDDC. She said the majority of those who responded had suggested an outdoor ping pong table; of all the suggestions put forward by parishioners, this was the item which had received the most votes. Members discussed the concerns over potential noise and disruption raised by some members of the public over the outdoor ping pong table. The Chair said she had received some hedge plants from the Woodland Trust which could potentially shield the adjoining properties.
Scams.
Janet Twist reported that a new scam is circulating on WhatsApp. A criminal gets in touch via a group chat and sends you a six-digit code. Taking action on this will lock you out of your account, and allow the criminal to send the same scam to your address book.
Vale bus shelter / Old Elm Road. Members heard that moss had been removed from the pavement and the hedge cut
along Old Elm Road. Peter Orchard reported that the Vale bus shelter had once again been swamped with books, but they had since been removed.
Special potato class £1 – payable when your seed potato is collected
Sections A,B,C no prize money. Section D prizes 1st = £1, 2nd = 50p, 3rd = 25p
McCann Junior Cup for most points by a competitor age 12-16 in Sections A,B,C
Awards for Best in Show in Sections A and B
The show is open to all residents of Gittisham parish, which includes Gittisham Vale and Hayne Farm estate. We also welcome entries from those who no longer live in the parish, those who actively support the parish, and those with close links to the parish.
Children must be aged 3-11 on Saturday 29th July 2023
Juniors must be age 12-16 on Saturday 29th July 2023
Children are welcome to enter Sections A,B,C upon paying the entry fee.
All exhibits must have been made or grown by the exhibitor
One entry form per person – no sharing!
Entries must be made in writing on the Entry form enclosed by marking X in the appropriate box on the form
Entry forms must be accompanied by the correct entrance fees.
Entries must reach Sarah and Len Abbott, 4 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14 3AH by Saturday 29th July 2023
NO ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE
Only one exhibit per person per class
The decision of the judges will be final and binding
Entries will be received at the Parish Hall between 0900 and 1045 on show day, and must remain staged until after the presentation of prizes.
No exhibit should be named (including children’s exhibits)
SECTION “A” VEGETABLES
Class
3 White potatoes
3 Coloured potatoes
1 Cabbage (any variety)
1 Lettuce (any variety)
5 Spring Onions
5 Onion sets
6 Shallots
6 Sprays of Parsley
3 Beetroot
3 Carrots (any variety)
6 Pods of Broad beans
6 Pods of Peas
A pair of Cucumbers
5 Tomatoes
5 Cherry tomatoes
3 Courgettes under 6”
6 Runner beans
2 Parsnips
3 Sticks of Rhubarb
4 different culinary herbs (not parsley) in a jam jar
The longest runner bean
SECTION “B” FLOWERS
Classes 24-28 to be presented in a clear glass jar (NOT A VASE)
Any flowering pot plant (pot not exceeding 8”)
5 pansy heads floating in clear water in a clear glass bowl
1 Spike Gladioli
3 Dahlias
6 Stems of Sweet peas
4 stems of different cut flowers
1 Specimen Rose
29. An arrangement of garden flowers on the theme of the Coronation, not exceeding 12” or 30cm in any direction. Own vase, not jam jar.
SECTION “C” HOMECRAFT
Victoria Sponge in a round 8” or 20cm tin – as attached recipe
5Quiche Lorraine
Tear and Share bread (own recipe)
Jar of Rhubarb and Ginger Jam
Jar of chutney (any variety)
A photo of an insect (photo not exceeding 6”x8”)
Homemade oven gloves
Homemade game
A Homemade Anniversary Card
39 MEN ONLY – Treacle Tart (recipe attached)
SPECIAL CLASS: Potatoes in a bucket – potatoes can be collected from Sue and David Fallows, Parkers East, Gittisham 01404 850922 on or after 6th April 2023
SECTION “D” CHILDREN’S CLASSES
Up to 6 years
40 A Painting or Drawing of a pet
A. animal made of vegetables
A marshmallow caterpillar
6 – 11 years
43. A Photo of people playing (max photo size 6”x8”)
44. An animal made of vegetables
45. 3 Shrewsbury biscuits
VICTORIA SPONGE
Grease and line two 7inch (18cm) sponge tins
Preheat oven to Gas 3, 325F, 170C, (150fan)
4 oz (110g) butter at room temperature
4 oz (110g) caster sugar plus a little for the top of the cake.
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
4 oz (110g) sifted self raising flour.
A few drops of vanilla essence
Cream butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs a little at a time
Stir in the vanilla essence
Gently fold the flour into the mixture.
The mixture should be of dropping consistency. If not add 1-2 tsps hot water.
Divide the mixture equally between the two tins and bake for approx. 25 minutes.
Cool on a rack and sandwich with raspberry jam.
Sift caster sugar lightly over the top of the cake.
Treacle Tart
Pre heat oven to Gas 6, 200C (180 fan).
35g butter
35g vegetable shortening
150g plain flour
2 tbsp cold water
675g golden syrup
270g coarse white breadcrumbs
Zest and juice of a lemon
Rub the fat into the flour to get rough breadcrumb texture. Bind with the water to form a soft dough.
Use the pastry to line a 20cm tart tin, preferably with a removable base.
Chill for 20-30 minutes.
Gently warm the syrup
Stir in the lemon zest and juice and the breadcrumbs.
Pour the mixture into the uncooked pastry case
Bake for 15 minutes.
Reduce the heat to 180C (160 fan) Gas 4
Bake for a further 15-20 minutes
Gittisham Flower & Produce Show Saturday 5th August 2023
ENTRY FORM
Please place an X in the square showing the number of the class(es) you intend to enter.
When completed please return this Entry Form, with the correct Entry Fees, as shown on the schedule to: Sarah and Len Abbott, 4 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14 3AH on or before Saturday 29th July 2023
No entries will be accepted after this date
Each entrantmust complete a separate entry form. No sharing!
Please do not name any exhibit – even the children’s
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Entrant’s name………………………………………………………………………
Address………………………………………………………………………………….
Total entry fee enclosed………………………….
Or, if child, state child’s age………………………
Additional entry forms available, if required, from Sue Fallows, Parkers East, Gittisham, EX14 3AS 01404 850922 or
All Ages welcome. Posies to give to Mums, grannies, grandmas.
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Our wonderful fete is back on Saturday 2 nd September, with all the
