. . . especially in the following activities:

COMBEbusiness

After standing up and speaking at a public meeting, I was elected to the committee and then voted chairman of a new business group in North Devon. Thanks to my fellow directors and support from members, COMBEbusiness has established itself to promote business around the Ilfracombe, Woolacombe and Combe Martin area of North Devon.

This has been an inspiring year and the turnout and participation at our monthly meetings has been phenomenal. In 2012 COMBEbusiness plans to provide tailored support and training for businesses in the area.

Ilfracombe courteous town initiative

Again, the response from business and residents of Ilfracombe has been tremendous. This pilot initiative, run by pleaseandthanks.co.uk and the National Campaign for Courtesy, has trialled a campaign to recognise courteous businesses in the town and focus on the positive aspects of business and work.

During the course of the initiative, I have met hundreds of people in business in the town and have been amazed by the response when people realise that someone has nominated them for an award to recognise their courtesy: it means so much to them.

North Devon 101 Apprentices campaign

In my role as business writer for the North Devon Journal, I had no idea how the North Devon Employment and Skills Board’s campaign to sign up 101 apprentices in 101 days would succeed. As it turned out, the commitment from North Devon’s employers, jobseekers, schools, colleges and residents was impressive. We beat the target and will be repeating the campaign in 2012. Watch out in the North Devon Journal.

North Devon Journal Business Awards

This was the first time that the North Devon Journal had run its business awards and again the response was enthusiastic. We met some great businesses and judging the winners was very difficult. The awards evening was a contrast to many other events in this time of economic uncertainty in that it focused entirely on genuine achievement and success.

North Devon Business Alliance

As a founding member of the NDBA, I’ve always enjoyed its friendly, professional lunches and events. Blogging, discussion on LinkedIn and interaction on twitter help to bring this vibrant business community together and in 2011 I’ve got to know even more business people across North Devon through the NDBA. In 2012 I look forward to getting to know even more.

Studio Theatre car boot sales

I also organised six fund-raising car boot sales for Studio Theatre on the seafront at Ilfracombe. I know many people love these and come from Bideford, Barnstaple and elsewhere because the atmosphere is so enjoyable. I was considering giving these up, but this week bumped into a car booter who thanked me and pleaded with me to run them again in 2012. I shall have to think seriously about this.

So thank you to all who have supported these organisations and activities and have made all the hard work in organising them worthwhile.

I plan to do some more gardening, DIY and things for myself in 2012, but already there are many projects and events in the pipeline for some of the above organisations above.

Let’s hope 2012 is even more successful!

There’s so much wildlife to see around Ilfracombe, North Devon.

At the moment the foxgloves are just coming into flower up Hillsborough . . .

While conkers are already forming on the horse chestnut trees near the swimming pool . . .

While nearby a starling hopped around on the grass . . .

Over at Bicclescombe Park, a collection of goldfish and other fish have mysteriously appeared in the boating lake. From what I have been told they are not supposed to be there and may be someone’s unwanted fish from a pond . . .

Studio Theatre, of which I am a director and trustee, will be staging a production of Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream in Ilfracombe and Torrington, North Devon this June.

Not only is this production part of the North Devon Festival, but it is also part of the RSC Open Stages programme, which involves workshops with the RSC, mentoring and the chance to be selected to perform at the RSC at Stratford-upon-Avon. The play is directed by Bob Corwin and the cast features a number of younger performers as Studio Theatre aims to promote both Shakespeare and theatre generally.

You can book tickets online for performances at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe on Thursday 9 and Saturday 11 June  or call The Plough Arts Centre, Torrington for tickets on Friday 10 June.

The production promises enjoyment for those who already know Shakespeare and for those new to his plays.

The bluebells on the north and east sides of Hillsborough, Ilfracombe, North Devon are astounding at the moment.

To see them:

• walk from the harbour round to Hillsborough
• go via the car park by the swimming pool
• climb the cliff steps from Hele Bay

It’s been a glorious spring this year, but I don’t think anything provides as big a lift as the arrival of ducklings.

This morning, in Bicclescombe Park, Ilfracombe in North Devon, I heard ducks squabbling down in the East Wilder Brook as it passes under a small bridge. I looked over the fence and saw a mother duck and her fleet of ducklings. Unfortunately, there were three male ducks trying to mate with her, explaining the noise as she fought them off.

Some blurred photos, taken with zoom lens while hanging over a fence with two spaniels on leads . . .

One of the park-keepers said they were born on Sunday. I counted 12. Before I could take any more photos, they swam under the bridge.

Meanwhile, back on the duck pond, this pair were doing some serious courting and a bit more when they weren’t being interrupted by other jealous suitors . . .

Expect more ducklings!

I have to take my camera because there is something new every day.

This morning I saw bluebells flowering in Bicclescombe Park in Ilfracombe, North Devon . . .

The magnolias are also blooming too in a variety of colours . . .

It’s a wonderful spring for blossom. All the trees are heavy with petals . . .

All we need now are lots of ducklings on the pond!

Well, on camera, anyway.

This pigeon landed in a tree in Bicclescombe Park in Ilfracombe, North Devon, looking very pleased with himself. He had a twig or something similar in his beak, possibly nesting material.

He seemed to think he could not be seen, but I had my camera . . .

I think he spotted me and didn’t look very pleased . . .

. . . but he was up in the tree and I was on the ground where no one could reach him.

I took his photo, thanked him, then walked on.

What a bright, sunny morning and so clear!

The daffodils in Bicclescombe Park just get better each day and I couldn’t resist taking a few close-up photos.

There’s nothing more full of life to bring us cheer!

We also accidentally woke up this chap . . . .

. . . a peacock butterfly.He did not seem to happy to be woken up and ‘buzzed’ at us by rubbing his wings together.

What to do? We had removed his winter sleeping quarters.

Now you see him . . .

. . . now you don’t!

We moved him outside into the sun on to a honeysuckle box hedge . . .

. . . where he woke up and then flew away.

Hopefully, it’s mild enough here in Ilfracombe, North Devon for him to survive. Apparently, they live for up to a year.

When people say “it’s raining, there’s nothing to do”, Ilfracombe is the place to be. There are lots of things to do in this seaside resort on the North Devon coast. In fact, the Ilfracombe and District Tourism Association have put them into a leaflet, which you can view online.

And if you want even more ideas on what to do, where to eat and stay in Ilfracombe, see visitilfracombe.co.uk.

I am biased, but then I moved here because I love it.

The latest guide to Ilfracombe in North Devon is out now. You can view it online or download a PDF.

Whatever the weather, whatever the season, it’s always a beautiful part of South West England.

We hope to see you soon.

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See visitilfracombe.co.uk for even more details.

For some while Mike Turton’s butchers has been generously collecting plastic milk bottle tops from customers, which have then been collected by a recycling company. On the whole, we are able to recycle many things in Ilfracombe, either through council doorstep collection or at the nearby rubbish tip, sorry recycling centre.

However, today Mike Turton gave us the news that the recycling company that has been collecting the bottle tops he collected will no longer do this as it’s not worth their while.

Does anyone know of any other way of recycling this waste?

Breakfast on a Good Friday is a one-off for us: a supply of freshly baked hot cross buns from the Pantry in Ilfracombe High Street, North Devon.

They only make hot cross buns for a short period so they remain special, unlike the unimaginative supermarkets who peddle them all year round.

Once again, we delighted in the fluffy, light dough and currants, accompanied by butter, some by homemade jam, and a mug of fresh coffee.

Thinking of the residents of Cockermouth in Cumbria and hoping that they can return to normal life as soon as possible after the floods, it struck me how powerful water is.

Even the East Wilder Brook that runs through Bicclescombe Park in Ilfracombe is swollen.

It changes from still pool to torrent with no warning . . .

. . . and although not very deep has the power to drag along anything in its way.

It commands my respect.

Yesterday I was rehearsing for Oh, What a Lovely War! in the Landmark Theatre. The more I perform there, the more I realise what a wonderful theatre this is. A newcomer to the company was impressed with the facilities and agreed what a marvellous asset it is for Ilfracombe.

Yet many people dismiss the theatre because of its external appearance. I have to agree that the building’s exterior does not thrill me, but it’s really the facilities inside that really matter. We’re lucky as a small town to have a theatre like this and we should value it. It would be very easy for funding to be cut and it would not surprise me, although it would sadden me, if in a few years time we had to fight to keep the Landmark open.

If it did close, no doubt those people who grumble about it would grumble even more about the town and the lack of things to do.

Let’s be glad we’ve got the Landmark, a cracking theatre and a draw for visitors to North Devon.

In the meantime, we’re looking to see all these seats filled on Thursday 5 and Friday 6 November.

See the ever-popular war game with songs, jokes and a few battles!

Studio Theatre’s production of Oh, What a Lovely War! at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, North Devon combines the songs that united the ordinary soldiers of the Great War with a wry look at the politicians and officers in charge of the carnage.

Set as a pierrot show, projected images and shocking statistics of the war on the Western Front contrast with the comedy action taking place on the stage in this 1960s satire which achieved West End success.

Throughout the action the ensemble cast sing well-known songs including Belgium Put the Kaibosh on the Kaiser, Hold Your Hand Out
You Naughty Boy, Goodbye-ee, Row Row Row, I’ll Make a Man of You, It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, Christmas Day in the Cookhouse, Sister Susie’s Sewing Shirts for Soldiers and Oh, It’s a Lovely War, many with humorous lyrics adapted by the soldiers in the trenches.

See the volunteers struggle to learn combat drill, watch the Tommies mingle with their German counterparts during the Christmas ‘truce’ and gape at the great European nations as their monarchs, politicians and generals stumble into the morass resulting in four years of pointless trench warfare.

First staged in 1963 and devised by Joan Littlewood and the Theatre Workshop, Oh, What a Lovely War! was influenced by the late Alan Clark’s military history ‘The Donkeys’ as well as by ‘The Good Soldier Svejk’ by Czech humourist Jasoslav Hasek.

Studio Theatre’s cast of 20 share the roles of soldiers, nurses, monarchs, generals, officers, secret police and more from the pre-war empires of Europe, accompanied on the joanna by Mike Riley and commanded from the safety of the auditorium by director Lee Baxendale.

Thursday 5 & Friday 6 November 2009, 7.45pm

Call the box office on 01271 324242 or book online at northdevontheatres.org.uk

Visit studiotheatreonline.org.uk for full details

We were lucky to watch the hundreds of minis drive into Ilfracombe this afternoon on the North Devon Mini Grand Tour 2009 in aid of Children’s Hospice South West. Here are just a few of the cars . . .

Great fun . . . hope to see them all again next year!

Sometimes it’s too easy to miss what we have now. This evening we wandered down to the seafront and enjoyed a pint of locally brewed Wizard Ales’ Old Combe at the Landmark Beer Festival. Then we walked to Maddy’s Restaurant for fish and chips. As we walked back in the twilight, the seafront took on a different kind of magic . . .

Ilfracombe promenade at twilight

It’s a time of it’s own, fleetingly breath-taking in beauty . . .

Ilfracombe seafront at twilight

And as the sun sinks slowly below the horizon, you couldn’t wish for anything better.

Ilfracombe seafront as the sun sinks

PS More novel updates tomorrow.

Once again, Ilfracombe in North Devon will be offering audiences in search of special entertainment something fresh and new for Christmas when Small Pond Production’s original cast from their 2007 UK amateur stage premiere re-assemble for a new stage version of the Vicar of Dibley on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th December 2009 at the Landmark Theatre.

Based on three different episodes of the popular BBC TV series written by Richard Curtis & Paul Mayhew Archer,  and presented by special arrangement with the writers and Tiger Aspect Productions, the stage show features Debbie Hadley as the Vicar supported by Pamela Beecham, Mike Bennett, Laurence Butler, Tony Scarratt, Ted Turner, Elena Wright and Robert Zarywacz and is directed by Lee Baxendale.

Book tickets for performances on the Landmark web site:

• Friday 18th December 2009 8.00 pm evening- Tickets £10; family ticket £36
• Saturday 19th December 2009 3.00 pm matinée- Tickets £85.0
• Saturday 19th December 2009 8.00 pm evening – Tickets £10; family ticket £36

Buy 10 tickets, get 1 free
Only available for evening performances by calling the box office (not online).

or call the box office on 01271 324242.

For more details and cast photos, visit the Small Pond Productions Vicar of Dibley web site at dibleyonstage.co.uk.

The Sound of Musicals features the music and lyrics of Rodgers & Hammerstein and is devised and directed by Lee Baxendale.

A glitzy revue of showstoppers from the most successful musical theatre duo ever. Featuring songs from their classic shows, including:

• Carousel
• Oklahoma
• South Pacific
• The King & I
• The Sound of Music

Join the cast members of Studio Theatre – Rachel Forbes, Debbie Hadley, Elizabeth Kemp, Julie Moore, Elena Wright, Laurence Butler, Neil Rudd and Stuart Thompson – for an enchanted evening as they fly on a bright cloud of music singing a few of their favourite things!

• Sunday 9 August 2009 – Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe
• Sunday 16 August 2009 – Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe

Performances start at 8.15pm.

Tickets £8.50. Family ticket: £28.00. Call the Landmark box office on 01271 324242.

Yesterday afternoon we went for fish and chips at Maddie’s and strolled down to the harbour to enjoy the summer afternoon. The MV Balmoral was just coming in and people were queuing to board. It doesn’t matter how many times we walk down here, it’s always lovely a lovely sight to see.

When You're Smiling II @ Landmark Pavilion

Studio Theatre recreates film, radio comedy and musical stars who kept Britain smiling through the war years in a fast-moving tribute show.

Family fun and laughter in a cabaret-style setting at the Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe, North Devon.

Monday 3 August 2009
Monday 10 August 2009
Monday 17 August 2009
Monday 24 August 2009

Tickets: £7.

Book When You’re Smiling II online or call the Landmark box office to book on 01271 324242.

See details of all Studio Theatre’s summer productions at studiotheatreonline.org.uk.

Hobson's Choice @ Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe & Croyde & Pilton, North Devon

Studio Theatre will be staging Harold Brighouse’s comedy, Hobson’s Choice, at

• Friday 24 July 2009 – Pilton Church Hall – tickets on the door £7
• Sunday 26 July 2009 – Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe – tickets £8.50. Family ticket: £28.00.
• Thursday 30 July2009 – Croyde Village Hall – tickets on the door £7
• Sunday 2nd August 2009 – Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe – tickets £8.50. Family ticket: £28.00.

Book Landmark tickets online or call the Landmark box office on 01271 324242.

Set in 1880s Salford, Henry Horatio Hobson is a successful shop owner selling shoes made by his employee Will Mossop. Hobson rules his household with a rod of iron, but when his children and shoemaker rebel, what choice is he presented with? Discover the hilarity of his dilemma as Studio Theatre brings this delightful Lancashire comedy to life.

Many will remember the famous film version starring Charles Laughton, John Mills and Brenda De Banzie, and Studio Theatre’s cast bringing the play to life on stage features Alan Bailey, Matt Cann, Larry Fabian, Carla Morgan, Lisa Morgan, James Morrison, Jason Morrison, Sara Pruce, Tony Parker, Peggy Strudwick, Rod Vass and Fenella Watson.

Visit Studio Theatre online for more details.

As the most influential British purveyors of combined musicianship and humour in the past 50 years, I was somewhat hesitant when I booked to see Three Bonzos and a Piano at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, North Devon on 25th June. Would they still have that magical spark of genius or would it be better to rely on listening to their recorded glory?

A thorough drenching on the way there – it’s your fault, Glastonbury! – wasn’t an ideal start, but the arrival of Bonzos Roger Ruskin Spear, Rodney Slater and Sam Spoons, plus pianist Dave Glasson and guitarist Andy Roberts, soon had the audience and my clothes steaming.

From the start, classic Bonzo numbers honked out of Rodney’s and Roger’s saxes – Cool Britannia, Jollity Farm, Hunting Tigers – and the compact but enthusiastic audience joined in without prompting.

Roger Ruskin Spear, directing the proceedings in a manic, forgetful but totally entertaining manner, introduced his infamous electrified implements and robots on many of the songs. Reaching out into the audience as far as the mike lead would allow, he asked us the original questions preceding Shirt.

Unbelievably, I got the chance to shout a right answer – I knew memorising those words would be more useful than my degree – and was awarded with a signed certificate, as were other studious participants. This was followed by a solo on the electric shirt collar, while Trouser Press featured the electric trouser press and the theremin leg appeared on Noises for the Leg.

Across the stage Rodney Slater blew a mean sax, played washboard on Mr Slater’s Parrot and performed a mixture of new and old numbers, including Senior Moments and Ginger Geezer, the latter in tribute to the late Vivian Stanshall.

Sam Spoons lived up to his name with several virtuoso performances on the spoons, including electric spoons on Monster Mash. A country and western performance of Purple Sprouting Broccoli also included the audience in a sing-a-long.

As well as the three advertised Bonzos, we also got a free one: Vernon Dudley Bohay-Nowell. Uncle Vernon bewitched us with a stunning cabaret magic trick, held us spellbound with a children’s story and charmed us with an enchanting rendition of Marlene Dietrich’s Falling in Love Again, complete with solo on the musical saw.

The audience got into the full spirit of the show and were in stitches most of the time, whether at Roger and Sam with their human ventriloquist act, when joining in the lyrics of Viv Stanshall’s Tent and Big Shot or from the hilarity of the Music for the Head Ballet.

Organised mayhem ensured the whole show remained refreshingly rough at the edges, so that the evening flashed past in continuous laughter.

Three Bonzos and a Piano (33% extra free) should have packed out the Landmark because they were well worth seeing: I have the certificate to prove it.

Go and see www.threebonzosandapiano.co.uk

Grey clouds and spots of rain could not put off the procession to Ilfracombe of Jack-in-the Green to welcome summer.

Preceded by Ilfracombe’s town crier and followed by a procession including drummers and morris dancers, the revellers made their way to the seafront.

A good crowd turned out to watch the celebrations . . .

. . . including the world’s tallest person or shortest lamppost . . .

Then we enjoyed the beer festival in the Landmark Theatre and the music . . .

While Ilfracombe may give the impression that nothing much happens over winter, in reality there’s a lot going on, especially preparation for the year ahead.

This weekend the Landmark Beer Festival is in full swing and on Monday 4th May, the Jack-in-the-Green celebration takes place with children dancing round the Maypole, morris dancing, music and, of course, Jack-in-the-Green himself welcoming summer.

In addition, Ilfracombe Victorian Celebration launches its 24-page colour 2009 programme packed with over 50 Victorian-themed events from 6th to 14th June 2009. Committee members in Victorian dress will be distributing copies and they will also be available through local outlets in the run-up to and during the week-long celebration.

You can download a PDF version of the programme (2.8 Mb) or view details of all events on the online events diary at the Ilfracombe Victorian Celebration web site.

Top marks to Ilfracombe High Street Traders who are taking the initiative to revive the annual Pancake Race on Shrove Tuesday 24th February 2009 11.00 to 11.30am in Ilfracombe High Street, North Devon.

In these over-regulated days, closing a high street for half an hour is beyond the means of mere mortals, so the Traders have achieved a lot to get permission to cordon off the lay-by oppositie Pedlar’s. Contact Robert McFarlane on 01271-862031 for more details.

Which leads me on to . . .

Will you be eating pancakes this Shrove Tuesday? We will!

We’d been meaning to pop in and see what the Rainbow Corner Café was like for some time as it’s changed hands several times in the past few years, so yesterday we made it and it was wonderful.

I had a belly buster – two eggs, jumbo sausage, bacon and beans plus toast and tea. Sometimes food just doesn’t get any better.

The menu ranges from fish and chips to breakfasts, cottage pie and chilli with rice (I think), so there’s quite a range.

We don’t have a fry-up often, but Rainbow Corner Café comes recommended by me for the food, bright and clean decor, and friendly service. It’s on the corner of the High Street and Northfield Road, opposite the Ilfracombe Centre.

Ilfracombe is so lucky to have such a wide range of restaurants and cafés offering pretty much anything you could want.

We’ll certainly be going again, although maybe for a cup of tea rather than a belly buster – got to think of my waistline.

North Devon Council is tendering for a company to develop a proposal to improve Ilfracombe seafront. See North Devon Council news item and tender advert in Arts Industry for details. Tender deadline 30th January 2009.

Coincidentally, we organised some fund-raising car boot sales along the seafront last year. Everyone loved it – sellers, buyers, locals and holiday-makers – because it provided a focus. From my observations, I concluded that the seafront needs a covered shelter where the old pavilion used to be. This would provide shelter from the wind, which comes straight off the sea, as well as creating a covered space for craft stalls, entertainers, musicians and a café. The area desperately needs dedicated public toilets – people are always asking where the nearest ones are – in the Landmark Theatre, if it’s open, or on the Quay, which is 10 minutes or so walk. I’ll happily take the £80K offered to develop this proposal.

Seriously, Ilfracombe needs companies with imagination to handle this. The natural beauty of the seafront is astounding and needs imaginative and sympathetic management.

I know it’s only down to -3°C here, but that’s cold for this part of the world. Yesterday morning I took the camera out as I walked the dogs before dawn; the harbour view was picturesque, but instead my unsteady hands produced this impressionistic image, which I quite like . . .

squiggly lights of Ilfracombe harbour before the dawn

Anyway, this morning I took out the one-legged-tripod-thingy, but still my hands shook in the cold. But I did get this . . .

Ilfracombe harbour at dawn

. . . and this one looking across to Wales . . .

Looking across from Ilfracombe to Wales at dawn

Worth getting up in the dark to see.

A new recipe and wonderfully delicious, we tried these new sausages from Mike Turton Family Butcher in Ilfracombe High Street.

Now, I’m a bit of a stick-in-the-mud when it comes to sausages and find some of the exotic recipes over the top, but I love these orange and ginger sausages.

We’re so lucky to have adventurous retailers who not only sell excellent quality, local food, but are also innovating.

Definitely worth trying next time you’re passing through town.

It wouldn’t be Christmas in Ilfracombe without a festive show at the Landmark Theatre. After last year’s smash-hit production of The Vicar of Dibley, this year Small Pond Productions presents It’s Christmaaas, a home-grown mix of song, dance and comedy for the whole family on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th December.

It's Christmaaas at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe

Book your tickets today by calling the box office on 01271 324242 or book online at www.northdevontheatres.org.uk. All tickets £9.

The wind is howling outside as I write, tearing down the valley towards the sea and throwing rain against the sides of the house. It’s been a relatively mild autumn, no real storms so far, but the past couple of days have hinted at a definite change in season. On a drive down the Sterridge Valley this afternoon, the trees looked magnificent, still with many leaves. No doubt, the wind will soon blow these away.

In the garden, some plants are still flowering from summer and autumn.

Hydrangea in Ilfracombe flowering in November

 Hydrangeas and fuchsias are still flowering . . .

Fuchsias flowering in Ilfracombe in November

These are quite sheltered so are protected from the winds . . .

Devon Dumpling fuchsias flowering in November in Ilfracombe

Look at these vibrant berries . . . I don’t know what the shrub is . . .

Autumn berries

And the heather is just starting to come into flower . . .

Heather coming into flower in November in Ilfracombe

We don’t seem to have had a summer this year, but there’s still much to enjoy throughout the other seasons.

Sometimes it’s there, sometimes it isn’t: Lundy Island.

The other evening, the cloud appeared to end over Lundy as it rose up out of the sea.

Lundy Island seen rising out of the sea from Ilfracombe, Devon

It was a murky evening, a bit like tonight, but the view was still stunning. The wind was blowing and the sea lashing at the rocks. Beautiful.

It wasn’t my fault. Someone else started talking about pies and the conversation moved on to plunge pies made by Mike Turton Family Butcher in Ilfracombe High Street. It’s a pie outer filled with mince and baked beans and topped with mashed potato.

So what did I want for lunch today?

Delicious plunge pie from Mike Turton Family Butcher, Ilfracombe, Devon

You’ve guessed it!

A lovely meal in itself on a chilly November day.

I took my camera with me yesterday to record what a beautiful, tranquil spot this is, even when it’s cold and grey.

The East Wilder Brook running through Bicclescombe Park

The East Wilder Brook runs through the park down a number of miniature waterfalls.

The duck pond in Bicclescombe Park, Ilfracombe

The boating lake, where the model boat club members sail their vessels on a Sunday morning, looked particularly serene.

The tree-lined model boat lake in Bicclescombe Park

And the tree-lined avenue between the boating lake and tennis courts was still relatively leafy for this time of year.

Tree-lined avenue in Bicclescombe Park

There are reminders everywhere of our milder, seaside climate and even the sheltered hydrangeas are still in bloom.

The milder climate of Ilfracombe in evidence at Bicclescombe Park

In warmer months you can enjoy afternoon tea at the old water mill, which still operates.

The water mill tea rooms at Bicclescombe Park, Ilfracombe

It’s no surprise that Bicclescombe Park has been awarded a Green Flag. All in all, it’s a lovely park to visit.

If you know Ilfracombe, you may know Bicclescombe Park, a delightfully peaceful haven hidden towards the Score Valley. With a mix of well-maintained lawns and flower beds, an old corn mill (now housing tea rooms) and millstreams, tennis courts, a boating lake, duck pond and children’s play area, it’s a lovely place for a relaxing walk in all weathers. The gardeners do a magnificent job keeping the park immaculate and there is a user group chaired by the council’s park department.

This morning as I walked through the park, I noticed that one of the wooden benches had been dumped in the boating lake. It’s half-term so not surprising if bored youngsters get up to mischief. But it’s not just harmless pranks: the damage is serious.

Up on the highest level of the park is a wooden shelter with a thatched roof. Youngsters often shelter in here at night when they have nowhere else to go (who minds this?), but why do they have to damage it by pulling wooden panels off it and sometimes burning them? At the moment it seems they have been damaging the thatch and, to stop this, an ugly fence with a steel grille is being erected at one side to prevent access to the roof.

In recent years a brand new concrete all-weather tennis table was wrecked by vandals within weeks of being installed, while young trees are often damaged.

I don’t think there’s any excuse for this behaviour. I didn’t understand mindless vandalism when I was a teenager and I don’t understand it now. I can understand people being bored, angry, frustrated and in need of stimulation and encouragement, but not wrecking the good things that are provided.

The authorities don’t seem to bothered, focusing instead on painting yellow lines on the lovely stone steps in case someone falls down them, erecting intrusive barriers to reduce the numbers of people drowning in the stream (I’m not aware of any), and putting up half a dozen maps of what is a very small park in which it would be quite a challenge to get lost.

The council uses cotton wool when the youngsters want challenge, excitement, adventure and stimulation.  

I feel angry at the damage and angry at those who do it, although I understand there are problems which cause this. I was lucky enough never to have to spend my time on the streets at night when a teenager and I believe no one should have to do this, but it’s not always the case. Providing facilities for bored youths is not necessarily an easy answer, having seen brand new, purpose-built play and sports areas in other towns wrecked by vandals with weeks of opening. No, the problems are more deep-rooted, which is a shame because it’s sad to think of these nocturnal battles during the daylight enjoyment of Bicclescombe Park when it is a delight for families, the elderly, children, dog-walkers, model boat enthusiasts, tennis players and others.

Should it put anyone off going there? Definitely not. It’s as safe as anywhere, especially in the daylight, and I’d recommend Bicclescombe Park to anyone, even bored youngsters, as long as they respect it.

As we turn back the clocks for winter, in Ilfracombe many of the boats have been lifted out of the harbour on to the quay and harbour car parks to protect them from the ferocity of the stormy weather until next spring.

Boats lifted out of the harbour on to Ilfracombe quay

It’s also a sign that most of the holiday-makers have gone and the town is back in the hands of residents, who can enjoy its beauty in the winter months.

It’s not all peace and quiet though, as it’s the only time that many of those in the tourism industry have to enjoy themselves after spending the summer season working all hours of the day.

Ilfracombe quay in October 2008

It’s a wonderful time to enjoy the town and countryside, even when the sea and sky are grey, it’s raining and the wind is howling. Certainly beats the M25.

Anyone who is involved in theatre will know what goes into producing a show, so it’s quite exciting when everything starts coming together as it is for Me And My Girl at the Landmark Theatre this week.

The Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe under a full moon

All the line learning, all the preparations, all the singing practice, all the dancing, all the costumes, all the rehearsals: everything is now coming together for Thursday.

The set of Me And My Girl at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, Devon

Suddenly, the magic is appearing and everyone is being transformed into the 1930s world of Hareford where the show is set. Even the seafront at Ilfracombe took on a magical appearance under the moonlight . . .

The promenade at Ilfracombe, Devon in the moonlight

I just can’t wait until Thursday night!

Now, a lot of people criticise the Landmark Theatre, calling it a blot on the landscape or looking like a nuclear power station, but for any faults with its external appearance (apparently, the choice of brick used causes an unsightly lichen to turn its cones black!), ‘Madonna’s Bra’ is a wonderful facility for any town, let alone a small seaside town. 

The Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, Devon

From Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th October 2008, two Ilfracombe theatrical groups, Small Pond Productions and Studio Theatre, will be staging a spectacular version (we think) of Me And My Girl. With a hired stage set, a cast of 37 and an 11-piece band, it should be a great evening’s entertainment.

See Me And My Girl at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, Devon

I’m biased, of course, because I’m playing Parchester, the family solicitor, but I genuinely do think this will be a great show and appeal to many people with such songs as The Sun Has Got His Hat On, Leaning On a Lamppost and The Lambeth Walk. Oi!

Book your tickets from the Landmark Theatre box office.

. . . up Hillsborough as another beautiful sunset develops over Ilfracombe . . .

September sunset over Ilfracombe

I know I posted photos of sunset and sunrise only a few days ago, but after a wet and cloudy July and August, it seems like the summer we feel we have missed . . .

Breathtaking September sunset in Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . truly spectacular.

A similar sight introduced me to Ilfracombe in 1969 when my family arrived by train and at the hill-top station were greeted by the sun dancing on the sea: a powerful image, both then and now.

It can be difficult some days, especially when it’s dark, cloudy, you feel tired and the news on the radio is depressing. But even then, once I’m up, it’s worth being out . . .

Ilfracombe quay on Monday 15th September 2008

It doesn’t matter that the sun’s not shining or that it’s cloudy, there’s always a lot to see and enjoy. But when the sun is shining . . .

Ilfracombe quay on Friday 19th September 2008

. . . it’s fantastic.

We’ve had beautiful mornings this week. Yesterday was sunny and clear . . .

Looking eastwards up the Bristol channel from Hillsborough

Even the moon was reflected in the water beneath the quay yesterday . . .

Moon reflected in the sea at Ilfracombe

So even though there is a lot of bad news about the economy, it’s on mornings like this that I appreciate and am grateful for what I have got and the simple pleasure of enjoying the beauty around me, especially as the sun rises . . .

Sunrise at Ilfracombe on Friday 19th September 2008

I don’t get happy clappy, but it’s moments like this that give genuine inspiration and hope.

. . . the colours and shades are intricate but fleeting.

Ilfracombe twilight

Sometimes the dying day blazes behind the Torrs . . .

The departing day blazes behind the Torrs

 . . . and all I can do is . . .

Ilfracombe sunset

. . . marvel.

The fair has come to town . . . to Ilfracombe quay . . .

The funfair on Ilfracombe quay

After what has not been the sunniest of summers, it’s good to see the funfair . . .

The funfair on the quay at Ilfracombe

. . . and the sea so calm on a clear September evening.

Not something that we eat every day, but a wonderful occasional treat, especially when you can buy fresh cod or other white white fish and local potatoes (which have never seen the inside of a supermarket warehouse or articulated lorry). We buy Braunton potatoes, grown within 10 miles of Ilfracombe, from Norman’s independent greengrocer in Ilfracombe High Street.

Home-made fish cakes and chips with pickled onions

So simple to make too: mix the cooked white fish and mashed potato, adding salt, pepper and a few parsley leaves, then mould into a long roll. Slice the fish cakes, dip in beaten egg and coat with home-made breadcrumbs. We use the end slices of a loaf from our baker’s, The Pantry in Ilfracombe High Street, bake them in the oven and grind in a blender. 

The chips are also made from local potatoes, peeled and chopped thick.

Deep fry the fish cakes very hot for five minutes or until ready, then keep warm in the oven, while frying the chips for 15-20 minutes.

The fish cakes are deliciously light and fluffy inside and crisp on the outside. I eat mine with home-made pickled onions, but choose whatever accompaniment you prefer.

We chose a fruity Regatta from Stanlake Park, so refreshingly free of the chemical after-taste (and headaches) of mass produced wines, as the perfect white wine on this occasion.

A potentially dangerous meal if eaten too often and if you’re not careful when deep frying, but lovely to enjoy as a treat with common sense and an otherwise healthy diet.

It was a wonderful, dry evening and people lined the streets without coats as we waited for the 2008 Ilfracombe Carnival procession to leave Hillsborough.

I got the impression that there were less floats than previously, but the standard was superb. It was a great spectacle for holiday-makers and residents alike and all in aid of St John Ambulance Brigade.

So I was waiting for some of the cast of the Studio Theatre and Small Pond Productions joint production of Me And My Girl to arrive with our advertising banner – the show is on at the Landmark Theatre from 16th to 18th October 2008.

And here they are . . . 

Here’s Uncle Tom Cobbleigh . . .

And Steptoe and Son’s horse . . .

Are they on their way to the Notting Hill Carnival?

Followed by an original Olympic hero . . .

And the drummers of Humdrumconundrum . . . .

Is that fire-breathing dragon from across the Bristol Channel?

And the Youth Band . . .

There were bagpipes, drummers, majorettes, youngsters and old’uns alike.

Ilfracombe should be proud to put on such a great spectacle and well done to all who built the floats, made their costumes, drove the vehicles and stewarded on the day.

Here’s looking forward to next year’s Ilfracombe Carnival!

The town’s residents and holiday visitors will be turning out for Ilfracombe Carnival, in aid of St John’s Ambulance Brigade, on the evening of Thursday 21st August 2008. 

The carnival processions winds it way from Hillsborough car park, along to the High Street and down Wilder Road and along the seafront until it reaches the quay.

Great fun and even better if it’s dry and warm.

Details here.

A magical time, the evening . . .

The Torrs blazing at sunset in Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . when the sun blazes as it sinks behind the Tors into the sea . . .

A fiery sunset in Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . and on the seafront, the lights illuminate Capstone Hill . . .

Capstone Hill, Ilfracombe in summer twilight

. . . nothing else matters in the magic of light and dark.

Rescue Day in Ilfracombe, Devon on Wednesday 13th August is Britain’s biggest emergency services live charity display day, featuring:

Coastguard. Police Force. Fire Brigade. RAF 22 Squadron Rescue Helicopter. RNLI Lifeboat. Lifeguards. Exmoor Search and Rescue. Ambulance Service. Red Cross. Devon 4×4. National Blood Service. Devon Air Ambulance. Maritime Volunteer Services. North Devon Animal Ambulance. RNLI boating sea safety roadshow.

Meet the real-life professionals and learn what it takes to keep us safe. 

Live air-sea Rescues with RAF helicopter, RNLI lifeboats, Coastguard cliff rescue. Drugs dog. Huge chip-pan fire. Lifeguards jet-ski surf rescue. See the roof being cut off a car. Handheld flare demonstration. 75^th Mountain-rescue anniversary “Then and Now” enactment. Birds of Prey Display.

Read full details of Rescue Day at Ilfracombe Round Table web site.

Studio Theatre and Small Pond Productions are delighted to present Me and My Girl at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, Devon on:

8.00pm Thursday 16th October 2008 – tickets £10
8.00pm Friday 17th October 2008 – tickets £12
2.30pm Saturday 18th October 2008 - tickets £10
8.00pm Saturday 18th October 2008 – tickets £12
Book your group to see Me and My Girl

Book 10 tickets for any performance and get 11th ticket free.

Thursday 16th evening and Saturday matinée 18th October performances only – for groups of 20 or more – all seats £8.50 – call the Landmark Theatre box office on 01271 324242 and book your group now.

The show

Book and lyrics by L. Arthur Rose and Douglas Furber. Music by Noel Gay. Book revised by Stephen Fry. Contributions by Mike Ockrent.

Originally produced at the Adelphi Theatre by Richard Armitage.

Subsequently produced at the Marquis Theatre, New York City by Richard armitage, Terry Allen Kramer, James M. Nederlander and Stage Promotions Ltd & Co.

A stunning production

If you have seen Studio Theatre’s production of Hello Dolly! and Small Pond’s production of Vicar of Dibley, you will know the high production values we aspire to in acting, singing, dancing, performance, costume and set. Me and My Girl promises to be a stunning production directed by Lee Baxendale and featuring the talented members of both companies.

Book now for a marvellous musical evening of entertainment from one of the best shows ever written.

What a glorious July day, just right for the first excursion of the pleasure steamer ‘Balmoral‘ from Ilfracombe.

There was quite a lot of activity out in the Bristol Channel: a grey warship . . .

The Balmoral passing a ship off Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . and a passing speedboat. There were also quite a few other boats in the harbour.

Speedboat passing Balmoral as she approaches Ilfracome quay, Devon

Eventually Balmoral docked to pick up passengers for its first cruise of the summer.

Blamoral docks at Ilfracombe quay, Devon

They certainly picked a fine day.

Just take a walk and see what you will find . . . up the steps from Hele Bay climbing Hillsborough . . .

Climbing the steps from Hele Bay up Hillsborough towards Ilfracombe

. . . the view from the top northeast towards Wales and Bristol . . .

Looking out over Hele Bay from Hillsborough, Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . up above bright blue and white . . .

Clouds, blues sky and sun in Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . out in the distance . . . more blue . . .

The serenity of Ilfracombe quay on Devon summer's day

. . . and boats . . .

Boating at Ilfracombe harbour and quay, Devon

. . . and beautifully clear water . . .

Clear waters off Larkstone Beach, Ilfracombe, Devon

. . . and neverending Sunday blues in Ilfracombe.

The perfect holiday night out for the whole family

After its success with The Vicar of Dibley, Small Pond Productions returns with a brand new weekly Monday-night summer show.

Packed with toe-tapping show-tunes, mystical magic and cheeky seaside comedy, Summer Showtime also features a live band plus a full-supporting company and is a truly great night out for all the family to enjoy.

• Monday 21 July – Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe
• Monday 28 July - Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe
• Monday 4 August - Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe
• Monday 11 August  - Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe
• Monday 18 August  - Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe
• Monday 1 September - Landmark Pavilion, Ilfracombe

Studio Theatre celebrates 10 years of its popular summer musical shows on the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Landmark Theatre by performing a selection of some 40 memorable showstoppers from 40 major musicals performed by a cast of 35, devised and directed by Lee Baxendale.

Performances on:

• Sunday 10th August – Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe
• Sunday 17th August – Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe

Tickets £8.50; family ticket £28.00.

Book tickets from the Landmark Theatre box office on 01271 324242 or book online at www.northdevontheatres.org.uk.

Join in the fun of this all-singing, all-dancing celebration of your favourite musical moments in a show for all the family.

Visit www.studiotheatreonline.org.uk for more details.

A good question. Many think of the town as well past its sell-by date with Victorian and Edwardian buildings crumbling, hotels closing down and shops looking shabby. Superficially, this is true.

But underneath it remains a fascinating town with much to offer. Yes, it has rowdy youths (where else in England doesn’t?), but it also has a very warm, strong community. The outer shabbiness of the High Street conceals some of the fine produce on offer: locally produced fruit and veg, meat, dairy products, bread and cakes, chocolate and sweets. 

And wherever you are in town you can look up to see the sea, beautiful hills or the ever-changing sky.

Wildersmouth Beach in Ilfracombe, Devon

It all depends on what you want in life, but if you’re sick of the brutal environments created by town planning in many parts of the country, it’s a breath of fresh air here.

The biggest challenge is preserving what’s good and regenerating what has decayed in a sympathetic manner that avoids the mistakes made in many other towns.

View of Ilfracombe harbour from Larkstone Beach

After a night of rain and storm, this morning was beautiful. The walk round the north side of Hillsborough revealed some atmospheric views as the sun struggled to break through the cloud.

Moody view east from Ilfracombe, Devon

Coming round the hill and looking towards the town, St Nicholas’s Chapel stood clearly above the harbour.

St Nicholas's Chapel, Ilfracombe, Devon

Truly a wonderful July Sunday morning, even if more rain is threatened.

The RNLI is hosting its Summer Splash at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe on Sunday 6th July 2008 from 1pm. There’ll be rescue demonstrations in and around Wildersmouth Bay plus fun and refreshments inside the Pavilion.

Pity I can’t find any details at www.rnli.org.uk as the volunteers deserve as much support as possible.

Hope the weather keeps dry!