Bogtastic 2016

Following on from last year’s successful event which was attended by more than 400 people, Bogtastic 2016 takes place on Tuesday 26th July from 10am to 4pm in and around Simonsbath. 

Bogtastic A4This free family event is a fun adventure day celebrating Exmoor’s wildlife, moorland and heritage with many activities and displays.  In Simonsbath, the River Barle flows past the historic water-powered sawmill, under the old stone bridge and by a meadow, along a beautiful moorland valley. Here you can play games and go stream dipping to find out about the river’s wildlife – fish, otters, birds, bats and creatures you’ve never seen – it’s a great place for a picnic too. Take a minibus up the hill to where the sky larks sing at Blackpitts and explore the bogs full of multi-coloured mosses.

Held during UK National Park’s Week, Bogtastic is the South West’s biggest and best bog festival. This  ‘drop in’ event will feature the Bogstacle course, live bats, the opportunity to visit one of the South West’s last remaining operational water powered sawmills, and lots more all-weather and undercover activities. There is something for everyone! It is free entry, with toilets and food on site and locally. Bring your wellington boots and dress for any weather – there is shelter in case it tries to rain.

See you at the welcome tent! 

Entrance is free, although some activities may request a small charge. For further information on Bogtastic please contact: Lynmouth National Park Centre on 01598 752509 or visit www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk or the facebook page.

New Festival will celebrate the Victorian’s contribution to Exmoor tourism

The heritage team at Lynmouth Pavilion Project have been exploring the ‘History of Tourism’ in their third and final year. Moved by the impact of the Victorians in creating links, opening roads, inventing steam locomotion for easy travel, and ‘taking the waters’ in their bathing machines, Louise and Abbie have come to the conclusion that the Victorians practically invented Exmoor’s tourism.

In recognition of this, and the changes they brought, the team has been planning a Victorian Festival with events taking place from Monday 20th to Friday 24th June across Lynton and Lynmouth, Dunster, Porlock and Allerford.

Abbie Thorne said “we thought we’d take advantage of the Ilfracombe Victorian Festival happening the week before – there’ll be lots of Victorians in the area looking for other entertainments. We’re hoping they’ll stay on for a few more days and see more of Exmoor, in costume!” she added “we’ve tried to arrange a few interesting activities for the Victorians – watch out for them as you’re out and about.”

Louise Reynolds added “it’s a full line-up – heritage walks through Victorian Lynton as well as Porlock, illustrated talks, slideshows, films, special tours of Dunster Castle and more. There are even traditional Victorian craft activities. We’ve invited local businesses to be involved and know that some will be dressing up, like the Coach House in Lynton where traditional Victorian cream teas will be on the menu!”

Abbie explained that “the Festival will move from village to village during the week, starting in Lynton and Lynmouth on the Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday will see activities move to Dunster, with Porlock on the Thursday and Allerford on Friday.”

The Victorians were responsible for the steam era and so there will be Victorians at Woody Bay Station as well as a talk from the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society. The Cliff Railway in Lynton and Lynmouth owes its construction to the Victorians and so the programme involves them too.

During the Festival the Project team will be sharing some Victorian postcards and images, and scanning your old photos too. A member of the project team will be at Dunster National Park Centre on the 22nd June from 2-4pm and at Porlock Visitor Centre on the 23rd from 2:30-4:30pm ready to scan your pictures.

 “There is a fairly packed programme” says Abbie “so check the line-up and we hope to see you at some of the events”. The programme is available on the Project Facebook Page and Twitter, or in the National Park Centres.

Exmoor Pony News

Exmoor National Park has been working closely with the Exmoor Pony Society, the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group and the Moorland Mousie Trust to develop a number of projects to support free-living Exmoor pony herds. Exmoor ponies are an important part of the landscape of the National Park and one of its special qualities.

What makes an Exmoor pony an Exmoor Pony? Trying to find the answer is one of the actions the group agreed on. In addition to the organisations mentioned, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, Defra, local vet Peter Green and Nottingham University have been working together to work out how to characterise the full genome of the Exmoor pony.  The genome is an animal’s complete set of DNA, including all of its genes. If the genome is defined, it will help us to understand where the pony has come from and which other breeds it is closely related to.  It could also help to guide future breeding programmes.  

During the last World War, pony numbers on Exmoor were drastically reduced – meat was in short supply and by the end of the war only around 50 ponies were left.  It is from this tiny population that all Exmoor ponies derive.  The genetic pool is, therefore, very small and it is important to try and preserve as much genetic diversity as possible to ensure the long term welfare of the ponies on the moor. 

The team is currently agreeing the scope of work and fundraising for the project. If successful, the first phase will go ahead when the ponies are collected from the moor at the annual gatherings.  Samples will be taken from the ponies and analysed by scientists at Nottingham. It is hoped that by early next year we will, for the first time, have the genome of the Exmoor pony.

Exmoor Pony Grant Fund

In another initiative, Exmoor National Park Authority has established an Exmoor Pony Grant Fund to promote and conserve free-living Exmoor ponies. Grant applications could include equipment, measures to conserve the landscape using Exmoor ponies, promotion of the breed, marketing or research.

Sarah Bryan, Head of Conservation & Access at Exmoor National Park said:

“The Exmoor landscape would be incomplete without the free living Exmoor pony and I believe that the Genome Project marks a pivotal moment in the long term survival of this endangered breed. We are delighted with the progress that is being made and look forward to seeing the results of this innovative project.

“We are also pleased to be able to announce the launch of the Exmoor Pony Grant in recognition of the essential work that owners carry out to keep these iconic herds on the moor and we look forward to receiving applications.” 

Grants of up to £500 on a total project spend of £1,000 are available. For more information visit: http://bit.ly/1XV6zCG or from Monday 6 June please contact Heather Harley, conservation officer (farming & land management) on 01398 322277, hjharley@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Photo taken by Nigel Stone/ENPA

Photo taken by Nigel Stone/ENPA

 

Shrowded in Low Clouds


All photos taken by Mike Watson today.

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR CALVERTSTOCK 2016

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CalvertStock, North Devon’s family friendly music festival, is back for its 5th consecutive year in aid of Calvert Trust Exmoor. The 2 day event takes place on the 24th and 25th June 2016, at The Old Station House Inn, Blackmoor Gate, (EX31 4NW), just 1/2 mile from Calvert Trust Exmoor.

CalvertStock is a fantastic music event in aid of Calvert Trust Exmoor, the South West’s premier outdoor activity destination for people with disabilities, and features two stages with an exciting line-up of bands, as well as stalls, fair rides, and food.

Tickets for this fantastic event are now on sale, with an ‘early bird’ special available until the end of May, offering 2 days entry a 2 days camping for just £10 per person. Tickets can be purchased online from www.calvert-trust.org.uk/tickets, or in person from Calvert Trust Exmoor or The Old Station House Inn.

The musical line-up features local, national and international artists covering a wide variety of musical genres, all gathered together to enjoy a relaxed family friendly atmosphere and support a fantastic cause. The array of acts includes;

Friday 24th Main Stage:-

Headline Act; The Bright Eyes – www.thebrighteyes.co.uk

Julian Langer – www.facebook.com/julianlangermusic

The Salvador Darlings – www.thesalvadordarlings.com

 

Saturday 25th Main Stage:-

Headline Act: Diamond Dogz (Bowie Tribute act) – www.lemonrock.com/diamonddogzband

Snakebyte – www.facebook.com/snakebyteofficial

Steel Threads – www.steelthreadsmusic.co.uk

The Vim Dicta (USA) – www.thevimdicta.com

Falling Apart – www.falling-apart.co.uk

Zamba – www.facebook.com/zambaband

The 5.15 – www.thefivefifteen.com

Audio Clash – www.facebook.com/ACNoise

Mobilizer – www.facebook.com/mobilizerband

Saturday 25th Acoustic Stage:-

Headline Act: Dave Sharp (Ex The Alarm) – www.davesharp.org/

Kiera Osment- www.kieraosmentmusic.com

Bicycle Repair Man – www.bicyclerepairmanmusic.co.uk

Tiger Lilly – www.tigerlillymusic.co.uk

Bache- www.facebook.com/andrewehcab

Charlie Charlesworth – www.facebook.com/charley.charlesworth

Karl Kiff- www.facebook.com/karl.kiff

Into The Autumn – www.facebook.com/intotheautumn

“We’re delighted that CalvertStock is back for its 5th consecutive year, and people are already supporting us by buying tickets from the website. All the money raised from CalvertStock goes straight into helping people with disabilities, and we really appreciate the support.

We would like to say a massive thank you to all the great musicians who have volunteered their talents to support us; it’s going to be great couple of days with some fantastic music, which last year raised £4,500. Huge thanks also to everyone who has already helped to make this a wonderful event, in particular First Steps Management, Lathwell Associates, Mr. Purchase for hosting the camping, and of course The Old Station House Inn for hosting the event.”
Rob Lott, Head of Communications at Calvert Trust Exmoor

To find out more about CalvertStock 2016 please go http://www.calvertstock.com/  or contact Calvert Trust Exmoor on 01598 763221.

Photo: Copyright Tim Lamerton Photography

National Parks: Breathing Spaces

British public support corporate involvement in National Parks to secure future sustainability

Nearly half of people surveyed on the future of the UK’s National Parks are concerned they will deteriorate if funding levels reduced in coming years, while 85% say that their perception of a large company would improve if it provided them with support, according to a survey by the National Parks Partnerships.

Launched today, the National Parks Partnerships has been created to enable businesses to readily engage with all 15 UK National Parks to enhance the quality and utility of the Parks now and for future generations. The Partnership is led by a Board of Directors of senior executives volunteering from the private sector and key commercial leaders from UK Parks.

Steve Curl, Chair of the Board and spokesperson for the National Parks Partnership, said:

“Government and the general public provide important support to the National Parks but we need additional commitments to make sure that they are not only sustained but enhanced for future generations. Partnership with responsible businesses – without commercialisation – can deliver the support needed to secure benefits from Parks for the massive number of visitors from the UK and overseas, local communities and the environment.”

In the survey of 2000 people across the UK, 67% strongly agreed that children need to get active in the great outdoors and nature and become real kids again and 68% strongly agreed that everyone should have the basic right to access nature in green spaces, fresh air and places like the National Parks.

Curl added: “At a time when children are being encouraged to play more outdoors and we all recognise the importance of being active, companies can facilitate engagement from their own employees and all sections of the public through health and wellbeing, conservation and other initiatives. We believe this will also bring substantial business benefits to partner companies – a real win-win.”

Current plans for major partnerships include an ‘Active Parks Partner’ to jointly promote health and wellbeing activities within the National Parks; a ‘Parks Discovery Partner’ to help provide for children who wouldn’t normally get the chance to have educational experiences in ‘outdoor classrooms’ in Parks; an official outdoor clothing supplier to the UK’s 255 National Park Rangers; a national funder for the ‘Miles without Stiles’ programme that creates and maintains accessible paths throughout the Parks; and opportunities to collaborate on environmental initiatives including sustainable transport, water and carbon management.

The mission of the UK National Parks is to conserve their natural beauty, promote public understanding and enjoyment, and foster economic and social development of local communities. The National Parks have 110 million visitors each year with an annual visitor spend of £5.5bn. 50% of people in England live within one hours’ drive of a National Park.

The survey of 2000 people was conducted across the UK in April.

Dates for the diary: Guided walks with the Exmoor Society

EXMOOR SOCIETY GUIDED WALKS 2016

 

Friday 6th May 2016 10:30am-3:30pm
Doone Country
Visit the area and sites associated with Lorna Doone on the circular walk of 8 mls. Walking alongside Badgworthy Water, beyond the site of the medieval village to Tom’s Hill Barrow and

South Common, we reach Oare Church before returning via Oare Water. Boggy in places. Please bring a picnic. Dogs under control welcome.

Meet: Malmsmead car park GR 792478 (Ref. JR)

Wednesday 11th May 2016 11:00am-1:00pm
Mining and Mystery at Wheal Eliza
On this short walk along the River Barle, hear the history of the Knights, mining in this part of Exmoor and the tragic mystery of Wheal Eliza. One or two short climbs but overall an easy walk along the valley. Return to Simonsbath for optional pub lunch or bring a picnic.
Meet: Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath. Grid Ref. 775394 (Ref. RT)

Saturday 28th May 2016 2:00pm-4:30pm
Coast and Common from Barna Barrow – A Walk with Glorious Views
Enjoy glorious views of Devon’s most northerly point, remote coastal scenery and haunts of bygone smugglers on this 2.5 hr / 3.5 mile walk. 100 m ascent on lighthouse road to finish. Please wear suitable weatherproof clothing and footwear. Meet Barna Barrow car park. Grid Ref. 7528 4962 (Ref. TP)

Friday 10th June 2016 10:30am-4:30pm
History and Mystery on the High Moor
On this circular 8-ml walk on the edge of the bleak, remote area of the Chains, you will visit sinister Pinkery Pond, the ancient

Longstone and mysterious Moles Chamber, as well as seeing many other historic landmarks. Spectacular views. Hilly, rough and possibly boggy underfoot. Please bring a picnic and wear weatherproof everything. Dogs on leads welcome.

Meet: 2nd layby from Simonsbath on B3358 near Goat Hill Bridge TA24 7LL (Ref. JG)

Friday 17th June 2016 10:30am-2:30pm
Watersmeet and the East Lyn River
A 5 mile walk through woods to Watersmeet, then along the beautiful East Lyn River to Rockford with a lunch stop at the Rockford Inn (or bring a picnic) and returning on the opposite side of the river. Dogs under control welcome. Meet: Hillsford Bridge NT car park GR 742 477. (Ref. JR)

Saturday 25th June 2016 10:30am-2:30pm
Avill Valley Vistas

A steady climb from the Avill Valley to the Grabbist Hill ridgetop is rewarded with stunning views of Dunkery and North Hill and across the Bristol Channel to South Wales. Following the ancient track, the views continue before making our way down to Wootton Courtney and following level tracks back to

Timberscombe. 4 hrs/8 mls.
Meet: Outside The Lion Inn, Timberscombe GR 962422 TA24 7TP (Ref. AM)

Friday 1st July 2016 2:00pm-4:15pm
Kilve and East Quantoxhead Walkabout
Join this easy 21⁄4 mile /21⁄4 hour stroll to discover some of the historical highlights of this fascinating area. Please wear weatherproof boots and clothing.

Optional cream tea to conclude the afternoon. Meet: Car park, Kilve Beach Grid Ref. SS 155442 TA5 1EG (Ref. RC)

Tuesday 5th July 2016 10:00am-12:30pm
Lynton and Valley of Rocks – An historic tour
This is a fascinating 2.5-hour walk to see a different view of Lynton, to learn how it has been shaped over the years and how the Victorians were drawn to the splendour of the Valley of Rocks. 2.5 mls/2.5 hours.
Meet: Valley of Rocks ENPA car park & picnic area (car park near public toilets). Grid Ref. 7113 4968 (Ref. TP)

9th July 2016 10:30am-3:00pm
Withypool and Tarr Steps
We start this walk by following a lovely stretch of the River Barle along the waymarked path from Withypool to Tarr Steps. We will then cross the ancient monument of Tarr Steps clapper bridge and climb slowly above the valley to the open moorland of Withypool Hill, passing two prehistoric sites before descending back to Withypool. Refreshments and toilets at Withypool and Tarr Steps. 9.5 miles. Meet: Withypool car park. Grid Ref 842353 TA24 7QP (Ref. AM)

Friday 15th July 2016 10:00am-12:30pm
Dunster Walkabout
An easy 2.5 hour / 2.5 mile walkabout to see and hear about some of the fascinating things in Dunster that the normal tourist misses. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear.
Meet: Visitor Information Centre, Dunster Steep, Dunster TA24 6SE (Ref. RC)

Friday 22nd July 2016 10:30am-3:30pm
Selworthy and North Hill
Enjoy stunning views on this circular walk of appx. 7 miles from Selworthy up to North Hill, Selworthy Beacon, Hurlstone Point and Bossington Hill. Some steep climbs and descents. An alternative route may be taken in inclement weather. Please bring a picnic. Dogs under control welcome. Meet: Selworthy Church overflow car park, Selworthy, Nr Minehead
(Ref. JR)

Thursday 18th August 2016 10:30am-3:00pm
The Woods of Simonsbath and the Historic Sawmill
A mile walk taking in Ashcombe Wood, Birchcleave Wood and Simonsbath Sawmill. Hear about the history and management of these plantations created by the Knights around Simonsbath in the 19th century. Slightly uneven ground with some short steep sections. Please bring a picnic and if the weather is bad we can lunch in the sawmill. Never more than appx half a mile from the car park, which has toilet facilities. Families welcome and dogs under close control.
Meet: Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath. Grid ref. SS 773 394 Postcode TA24 7SH (Ref. GMcV)

Friday 26th August 2016 10:30am-4.00pm
Far West Exmoor
A 9.5 ml challenging circular walk along the South-West Coast Path (narrow and sheer drop in places) from Hunter’s Inn to Holdstone Down returning via Trentishoe Down and Ladies Mile. Fairly rough walking with some steep climbs and descents. Please bring a picnic. Dogs under control welcome.
Meet: NT car park, Hunter’s Inn, Heddon’s Mouth GR 655 482. (Ref. JR)

Thursday 8th September 2016 10:30am-4:30pm
In Coleridge’s Footsteps to Culbone

A 6-mile circular walk along the most recent section of the Coleridge Way to Culbone Hill and down to England’s smallest church at Culbone. Steep hills and probably muddy underfoot, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. Please bring a picnic and wear weatherproof clothing. Dogs on leads welcome.
Meet: Porlock Weir car park, Porlock (parking fee), TA24 8PD

(Ref. JG)

Tuesday 13th September 2016 10:30am-2:00pm
Lady Harriet Acland’s Drive, Haddon Hill
A walk from Haddon Hill, down to Bury, back along Lady Harriet’s Drive beside the River Haddeo to Wimbleball Dam. Then along near the lake and back to the car park. Appx 6 miles. One steep climb. Please bring a picnic.
Meet: Haddon Hill car park, off B3190 GR SS970288
(Re. P & J M)

Hope Bourne and her Beloved Exmoor
Saturday 24th September 2016 10:30am-1:00pm
A walk around the Withypool area in the footsteps of Hope Bourne, taking in her favourite views from her writings . A moderate walk of appx 3 miles,

some parts rough underfoot and steep in places. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. Followed by optional lunch in Withypool or bring a picnic.
Meet: Withypool car park, Withypool TA24 7QP (Ref. RT)

Tuesday 27th September 2016 10:00am-12:30pm
Lynton and Valley of Rocks – An historic tour
This is a fascinating 2.5-hour walk to see a different view of Lynton, to learn how it has been shaped over the years and how the Victorians were drawn to the splendour of the Valley of Rocks. 2.5 mls/2.5 hours.
Meet: Valley of Rocks ENPA car park & picnic area (car park near public toilets). Grid Ref. 7113 4968 (Ref. TP)

Tuesday 4th October 2016 2:00pm-4:30pm
Discovering Dunster’s Hidden History
This is a fascinating and easy-going walk around Dunster village

looking at its historic buildings and secret places. About 1.5 miles. Followed by optional tea in the village.
Meet: Dunster Visitor Information Centre, Dunster Steep, Dunster TA24 6SE (Ref. JG)

Wednesday 19th October 2016 10:30am-4:00pm
Anstey Commons and Hawkridge
Join a member of The Exmoor Society in this relatively less known

corner of the National Park. The walk includes three commons, Dane’s Brook, small sections of the Exe Valley and the two Moors Way, and visits Hawkridge. Appx 9 miles, including steep descents and wet underfoot, you will be rewarded with good views of both Exmoor and Dartmoor! Please bring a picnic and wear waterproof clothing and stout footwear. Well behaved dogs welcome.

Meet: Anstey Gate, SW of Hawkridge Grid Ref. 835299 (Ref. MC)

Saturday 22nd October 2016 10:00am-1.00pm
Autumnal Woodland Walk around Dulverton
A guided walk of appx 5 miles around Dulverton to see the splendour of the local woods in autumn. Aim to be back in Dulverton for lunch time. May be muddy under foot and there will be some climbs. Route can be shortened if weather inclement. Well behaved dogs welcome.
Meet: Exmoor Society, 34 High Street, Dulverton TA22 9DJ (Ref. HB)

Friday 28th October 2016 10:30am-4:30pm
Deer on Dunkery
Join this 6ml circular walk on Dunkery’s slopes, in the hope of seeing and hearing Red Deer during the rut. Hilly and rough underfoot. Please bring binoculars and a picnic. Wear weatherproof everything. Dogs on leads welcome.
Meet: Webbers Post. (Ref. JG)

The Society advises that participants take part in activities at their own risk. For all outdoor activities please wear weatherproof clothing and walking boots. Members and non-members are most welcome.
There is no charge for the guided walks.
A small donation is appreciated from non-members.

For any enquiries, please contact The Exmoor Society

info@exmoorsociety.com

01398 323335 www.exmoorsociety.com

Date for the Diary: Simon Dawson at the Simonsbath Festival

Wednesday 11 May @ 7:30pm – St Luke’s Church

Simon Dawson

London Suits to Welly Boots –

the true and funny story of how I accidentally fell in love with the Good Life

Following a drunken misunderstanding, Simon Dawson agreed to give up his Simon Dawson 1 London life and move to the wilds of Exmoor, where he and his wife Debbie started from scratch a 20 acre self sufficient smallholding, cram-packed with opinionated, characterful free-range animals. 

Simon is an author of several books including, The Self Sufficiency Bible and two comic memoirs, Pigs in Clover and The Sty’s the Limit. He is also a journalist and radio personality. He has cooked on TV with Gary Rhodes, appeared on Countryfile with Adam Henson and was featured in Ben Fogle’s New Lives in the Wild UK on Channel 5.

Simon Dawson 2For more details about Simon and Debbie please see the Hidden Valley Pigs website (external link).

Advance booking: £10 to reserve the seat of your choice; £5 for unreserved seating (£6 on the night); 14 year-olds and under free.

To book tickets and snacks please use the online form at Order Tickets or contact Marian Lloyd.

Date for the Diary: Simonsbath Sawmill Open Day

National Mills Weekend 2016

Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May 201

National Mills weekend is the annual festival of our milling heritage and this year both of Exmoor’s historic, water powered sawmills at Timberscombe and the National Park Authority owned mill at Simonsbath – will be open to the public on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May 2016 ,

Graham Wills who will be opening the Simonsbath sawmill says: “Small estate sawmills which were once common are now rare and Exmoor is very fortunate in having two, restored sawmills both of which will be open over the weekend, and are just 14 miles apart – being able to visit both on either the Saturday or Sunday would be a great day out.”

Simonbath sawmill will be open on both days from 10am – 4pm and there are refreshments available in the village.

Simonsbath Sawmill is an historic, water-powered sawmill and estate workshops lying in a beautiful riverside location in the heart of Exmoor National Park.  It was built for John Knight (1767 – 1850) who bought much of central Exmoor in the early years of the 19th century, and was refurbished for Viscount Ebrington in 1898. It was bought by Exmoor National Park Authority in 1996 and restored with Heritage Lottery Funding.  It is a nationally significant building – one of very few estate sawmills with evidence of systems of power and contemporary saw benches. The sawmill is no longer in regular operational use but is maintained in working condition and is used for demonstration purposes and as the venue for educational events and activities.  It is cared for by a small team of volunteers who help with maintenance, lead tours and are researching the history of the mill.  Further information:  www.simonsbathsawmill.org.uk

Cowbridge sawmill at Timberscombe will be open from 11am – 4.30pm on 14 & 15 May each day.

 

 

Night Sky

 

Wimbleball Lake 3.30am on 1 May 2016. Moon just starting to rise bottom left, Mars, Saturn and Antares to the right of the Milky Way. Photo by Paul Howell.

Wimbleball Lake 3.30am on 1 May 2016.
Moon just starting to rise bottom left, Mars, Saturn and Antares to the right of the Milky Way.
Photo by Paul Howell.

Wimbleball Lake. 3 May 2016. Photo by Paul Howell.

Wimbleball Lake. 3 May 2016.
Photo by Paul Howell.

Shooting star over the Milky Way, Mars and Saturn. Photo by John Spurr.

Shooting star over the Milky Way, Mars and Saturn.
Photo by John Spurr.

Moonset from Exmoor. April 2016. Photo by John Spurr.

Moonset from Exmoor.
April 2016.
Photo by John Spurr.