Buckfastleigh Community News

Buckfast Abbey is inviting children aged 7-12 to audition as choristers for its choir. This opportunity provides a generous scholarship that covers a top-notch musical education for each chorister selected. A passion for singing and a commitment to the choir's schedule are the main requisites for the auditions.

New choristers will join a skilled group of young singers who play a pivotal role in enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the Abbey through their performances. These performances include regular services and high-profile concerts both within the Abbey and across the local area. Each summer, the choristers also embark on national tours, with previous destinations including Liverpool and York, and an international tour is planned for 2025.

The choristers receive their musical training from Robert Pecksmith, Assistant Master of the Music at Buckfast Abbey. Dr Pecksmith believes there is untapped musical potential in the local community, stating, "There will be many families in the area whose son or daughter has real musical promise, and who will benefit from the chance to become a chorister with us." He adds, "All we are looking for is some innate musicality and a spark in their eye."

Apart from honing their musical prowess, choristers also develop essential life skills like self-discipline, concentration, organisation, and attention to detail. The Rt Rev David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast Abbey, highlighted the dual benefits of the choir: "The choir enriches and enhances our liturgical life by drawing on the great heritage of church music. It also offers choristers wonderful educational opportunities as well as much fun and a sense of achievement." He encourages families to explore this unique opportunity.

Located conveniently between Exeter and Plymouth, just off the A38, Buckfast Abbey offers a serene setting that is open to the public seven days a week. For more details on the music programme at Buckfast Abbey, please visit www.buckfast.org.uk/music.

Join us for a welcoming and inclusive All Ability Yoga class every Wednesday at St Luke's Church, Buckfastleigh, from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Whether you're a regular, a drop-in, or just visiting, you'll find a friendly atmosphere. No need to book—just turn up! You'll find the entrance at the back of the church, and free parking is available at Victoria Woodholme car park.

One-to-One Yoga: For those preferring individual attention, Kevin offers yoga sessions for one or two people in the comfort of their own home.

Private Classes for Groups and Organisations: Perfect for promoting wellbeing in the workplace or other group settings.

Yoga offers numerous benefits for individuals of all ages, including:

• Improving strength, balance, and flexibility
• Helping with anxiety and stress
• Alleviating back pain
• Easing arthritic symptoms
• Benefiting heart health
• Enhancing relaxation and sleep

Kevin is committed to making yoga accessible and enjoyable for everyone. For more information, feel free to reach out:

• Phone: 07540 751745
• Email: wellswoodyoga@gmail.com
• Website: www.wellswoodyoga.com

Embrace the benefits of yoga with us at Wellswood Yoga, where everyone is welcome!

Anne Wright's Yoga Classes are a wonderful opportunity to enhance your posture, health, flexibility, and stamina through Scaravelli inspired Yoga. These classes are perfect for everyone, from beginners to those looking to deepen their yoga practice and gain a greater understanding of their body. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, making it ideal for anyone wishing to feel calm, centred, and in control of their life.

Our sessions are held in a beautiful, warm hall with a wooden floor and picturesque hillside views, providing an ideal environment for yoga practice. Classes run continuously throughout the school year, making it easy to join at any time.

Weekly Schedule:

• Wednesday: 10.30 AM - 12 PM at Caddaford Barns Studio, Buckfastleigh
• Thursday: 6.30 PM - 8 PM at Buckfastleigh Town Hall
• Friday: 10.30 AM - 12 PM at Dartington Village Hall
• Special Workshops:
• Saturday, 3rd August at Ashprington Village Hall
• Saturday, 28th September at Caddaford Barn Studio

In addition to the regular classes, we offer options to attend other classes in neighbouring villages, along with affordable Shiatsu or Acupuncture treatments to support your progress in yoga.

Contact Information:

For more details, please contact Anne Wright at anne.wright76@yahoo.co.uk or call her on 07454490085.

On the 9th of July, members of the Buckfastleigh Women's Institute enjoyed a delightful gathering with a special guest, Noni from the Woolly Nanas. Noni shared insights about the Moor Imagination Collective and the Moor Threads Community Project in Buckfastleigh, highlighting the local talent in wool crafting. Members had the opportunity to try their hand at simple weaving, using beautifully hand-dyed and spun local wool. The evening also included a competition titled 'Colour Your Favourite Ice-Cream Flavour', judged by Noni. Congratulations to Georgina for clinching the top spot, followed by Liz and Elaine in second and third places respectively.

Gill presented key points from the Annual Meeting of the National Federation of Women's Institutes, held at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Additionally, plans were finalised for the upcoming August outing and the coffee morning on Saturday, 14th September, at the Valiant Soldier from 10 a.m. to 12 midday. This event will support the Rowcroft Hospice—a date for your diary indeed!

The next meeting of the Buckfastleigh Women's Institute is scheduled for Tuesday, 10th September at 7pm, taking place at the Buckfastleigh Rangers Football Club on Duckspond Road. We welcome visitors and kindly ask non-members for a £5 donation to help cover our expenses. For more information, please visit our Facebook page, call us on 07884 221312, or email buckfastleigh1.wisec@gmail.com.

Have you ever been whisked to a hospital appointment by a volunteer who kept you calm during a nerve-wracking time? Or perhaps your child has blossomed thanks to the dedication of volunteers in local groups like the Brownies or Scouts? It could even be a thoughtful neighbour who tidies the street and helps out with the bins. These are the unsung heroes amongst us, who bring light to our days and make Teignbridge a truly special community.

Teignbridge CVS recognises the value these wonderful individuals and groups add to our lives and is thrilled to announce an awards ceremony this November to honour their contributions. This event is not just a celebration but a heartfelt thank you to those who dedicate their time and energy to making Teignbridge a better place for everyone.

If you know a volunteer or a community group that has made a significant difference in your life, now is the chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Please send your nominations to chloe@teigncvs.org.uk by Sunday, 15th September.

For further details about the event, please visit the Teignbridge CVS website or contact Chloe directly. Let's celebrate the spirit of volunteerism in Teignbridge together!

On the 17th of September, the 3:45 PM train leaving from the South Devon Railway station will host a very special journey. It's the anniversary of the Buckfastleigh Memory Café, and to mark this wonderful occasion, we're replacing the usual biscuits with delightful cakes baked by Buckfastleigh's very own Karl Williams. We're also thrilled to invite the Bishopsteignton Memory Café to celebrate with us, and we'll be sharing our story with BBC Radio Devon!

Our memory café first set off a year ago, and since then, we've truly been steaming ahead. If you or someone you know is living with memory problems or dementia, we warmly invite you to join us. Along with a companion, come and enjoy a supportive and friendly environment. We're here to offer support, signposting, and most importantly, a chance to enjoy a lovely trip on the South Devon Railway.

There's no need to book in advance, but if you'd like more information or are interested in volunteering with us, please don't hesitate to get in touch:

• Email: Kathrine@conversationworks.co.uk
• Phone: 07899 993134

At Buckfastleigh Medical Centre, we understand that smear tests can be daunting for many. It's not uncommon to feel unsure about the procedure or hesitant to book an appointment due to embarrassment. However, it's important to know that these tests are crucial for your health. Currently, 1 in 3 young women are not responding to their smear test invitations.

If you are between the ages of 24 and 64 and have received an invitation, or if you know you are overdue or have missed a previous appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our friendly nurses are here to support you. They are more than willing to have a chat about the test process before your appointment, helping to ease any concerns and answer all your questions. If you need more time during the appointment, just let us know; we can arrange that for you.

Remember, there's no need to feel shy about your health. Pop by the surgery at Bossell Road, Buckfastleigh, TQ11 0DE, or give us a call at 01364 642534 to book your appointment with one of our caring nurses. Your health and comfort are our top priority.

Author talk with Stephanie Austin
Join us on Thursday 26th September 2024, from 5-6pm, for an engaging evening with Dartmoor crime writer Stephanie Austin. Stephanie will be discussing her latest thrilling work, 'Death on Dartmoor Edge'. Tickets are priced at £4, which includes a glass of wine and refreshments. As spaces are limited, please ensure you book your spot in advance.

Board Games Club is Back!
Mark your calendars for Saturday 21st September, from 10am-1pm. We're thrilled to bring back our Board Games Club, featuring a variety of games suitable for children aged 7 and upwards, with a few options for the younger ones as well. Whether you're coming with friends or family, we have tables ready for you. Entry is only £1.50 per person, and includes free drinks and snacks.

For bookings and more information, please contact Buckfastleigh Library or visit our premises.

St Benedict’s Catholic Church in Chapel Street, Buckfastleigh is a friendly Catholic worshipping community served by our Parish Priest, Fr Francis Straw, from Buckfast Abbey.

We warmly invite you to join with us on Saturdays at 5pm for Mass, followed by tea and coffee. Children are very welcome to enjoy our quiet activity area during the service.

Visitors
We have been delighted to welcome visitors this summer to our Saturday 5pm Mass. If you are reading this whilst here on holiday, come and find us in Chapel St, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0AQ. We look forward to meeting you.

Sacraments of Initiation
It is time to start planning for First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Baptism or Reception into the Full Communion of the Catholic Church for next year.

• Would you like your child to receive their First Holy Communion next year?
• Does your teenage son or daughter wish to be Confirmed?
• Are you a Catholic adult who missed out on Confirmation and would like to be Confirmed?
• Are you a baptised Christian who would like to become a Catholic?
• Are you a Christian who has not been baptised and wishes to be baptised and received into the Catholic Church?

For a conversation about any of the above, please contact Father Francis. And if you have just lost the habit of going to church and want to find your way back home, come along to Mass where you will be most welcome.

Buckfastleigh Foodbank
There is a donation point for the Foodbank in St Benedict’s and we thank parishioners for their continuing generosity. A list of items particularly needed is available in the church or on the Buckfastleigh Foodbank website.

Contact Details: parish@buckfast.org.uk
Telephone Fr Francis Straw: 01364 645526

Pat Sheridan, a well-known and much-loved figure in Buckfastleigh and the surrounding areas, passed away peacefully at the end of July following a period of illness. Pat was a keen supporter of local activities and was always willing to help others when they needed it. She is survived by her three children, Donald, Anna and Sophia. Pat will be missed.

The Moor Imagination Collective in partnership with the Share Shed - A Library of Things and the Community Action Group Devon, warmly invites you to a consultation on 12th September 2024, from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Moor Imagination Collective, The Old Methodist Church, Chapel St, Buckfastleigh, TQ11 0AB.

Discover the significant benefits of Repair Cafés, which advocate for reducing waste and saving money through repair and reuse, and learn how you can contribute to this initiative in Buckfastleigh. This free event also includes refreshments.

For more information, please contact moorimaginationcollective@gmail.com.

Sunday Services in September: St Luke’s Church invites the community to join us for our regular services. Holy Communion will be held on the 8th and 22nd, and lay-led Morning Worship on the 15th. Each service starts at 11am. We also offer a serene evening Compline service on the 1st at 6.00pm. A special combined service for all the churches of our Dart and Avon Mission Community is planned for the 29th, though details are yet to be confirmed.

On August 4th, we bid farewell to our beloved curate Laura McAdam, who is preparing to move to Paignton parish church as Associate Priest. Laura shared, “It has been a joy and delight to serve this community, and I treasure the connections and experiences I’ve made here.” We deeply appreciate her dedication and pray for her continued success and happiness in her new role.

Foodbank and Support Services: Our foodbank provides essential supplies and operates on Friday mornings. For assistance, please contact 01364 644485. The Foodbank Café not only distributes food but also offers skilled advice from our Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) adviser. Additionally, different agencies are available each week to offer further help and counsel.

For more information about our services and activities, please visit www.stlukeschurchbuckfastleigh.org.uk. Should you wish to speak to someone directly, our Team Rector, Gina Radford, can be reached at 07903 400480.

Rev Laura McAdam bids farewell to St Luke’s Church, reflecting on a rewarding five years in Buckfastleigh. She is set to begin a new role as Associate Priest in Paignton this September. During her tenure, she played a crucial role during the pandemic, supported grieving families, initiated a food bank, and engaged with the youth through creative projects.

She extends her heartfelt thanks to all her colleagues and community members. Her new role will focus on family outreach and engaging those outside her future congregation.

For more information about St Luke’s Church and its community initiatives, please visit our website or contact our office.

The Buckfastleigh Mothers' Union is excited to announce the resumption of our regular meetings following the summer break. Join us on Thursday, 5th September at St Luke’s, starting at 2:30 pm. We are delighted to welcome Heidi Lewis as our guest speaker, who will enlighten us with a talk on the Church Army.

Reflecting on our summer activities, we had a splendid outing to Seaton, which included a charming tram ride to Colyton. The Mothers' Union members from Colyton were incredibly gracious hosts, treating us to tea and delicious cake. It was a day enjoyed by all who attended.

We always welcome visitors to join our friendly group. If you're interested in learning more about the Mothers' Union or attending our meetings, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Contact: Janet Jones at 01364 643627 for more information.

It's estimated that a staggering £22.7 billion in support remains unclaimed each year across Great Britain, with over £30 million in Teignbridge alone. Many are unaware they're entitled, feel embarrassed, or are deterred by the complex process of claiming benefits.

To address this, Teignbridge CVS has set up resources to assist you. Our online benefit calculators are available to help you identify what you might be entitled to.

If you need more information or support, please visit www.teignbridgecostoflivingsupport.org.

We are also hosting a support day on Wednesday 2nd October from 10am to 3pm on Courtenay Street in Newton Abbot. Come and meet our team who can assist you with the benefits calculator and discuss your specific situation.

The Woolly Nanas at The Wool Hub invite you to join their array of crafting sessions this September. From felting and weaving classes for children to adult workshops and community projects, there's plenty to get involved in.

Workshops for Children: Starting 9th September, we offer felting on Mondays and weaving on Tuesdays, both from 3.30 pm to 5 pm. Additionally, wet and needle felting sessions with Rita are available on Wednesdays from 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm.

Adult Workshops: Our adult needle felting workshop is on Saturday, 14th September from 10.30 am to 3 pm, followed by a Rug Weaving Skills Workshop on Saturday, 28th September from 10 am to 2 pm. A Rug Making workshop is also available on Saturday, 5th October.

Free Activities: We offer free sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Special sessions include 'Sort It' with Jackie Millichap on the 5th and 19th September.

Community Project: Join our Community Weaving Project on Fridays and our Community Engagement Day on Saturday, 14th September.

For bookings, email woollynanas@gmail.com. Keep updated via our Facebook page.

Since its inception in August 2019, Better Places (Be Buckfastleigh) has been a beacon of support and creativity for the communities of Buckfastleigh, Bridgetown, and Bovey Tracey. Over the past five years, we've had the privilege of supporting thousands through a variety of services including arts, mental health support, and essential household assistance.

Our efforts have been made possible by a generous National Lottery Growing Great Ideas grant, which has covered staff costs, rents, and other project expenses. However, as this funding concludes in July, we are preparing to adapt our approach from September onwards to ensure the continuation of our priority projects. This adaptation includes transitioning our core team members—Becci, Emma, and Rachel—to work remotely, focusing on project-specific roles as funding permits.

We will be moving away from our current base at The Living Room in Fore Street, Buckfastleigh, but our commitment to the community remains steadfast. Our focus will initially centre on three key projects: Little Lambs and the Social Supermarket in Buckfastleigh, and Hello Summer in partnership with local organisations across Buckfastleigh, Bridgetown, and Bovey Tracey.

The landscape of funding is ever-changing, with increasing demands and tight competition. We are dedicated to continuously seeking new funding opportunities and exploring sustainable practices for our projects. Better Places / Be Buckfastleigh is committed to championing the needs of small rural communities, particularly those who are most in need and often have the least influence over decisions that impact their lives.

If you have any questions, wish to contribute, or need further information, please don�t hesitate to contact us at hello@bebuckfastleigh.co.uk. Stay updated by following our Facebook page, visiting our website at www.bebuckfastleigh.co.uk, and subscribing to our weekly newsletter.

The Dean Prior 100 Club has been a wonderful success thanks to the support of our community. Congratulations to our July and August draw winners, including Phillip Langley May, Charlotte Hedges, Derek Shepherd, Joanna Bailey, Joe Chew, and TJ Grieveson. Your participation is greatly appreciated!

Fund Raising for Dean Prior Church:

We are thrilled to invite you to another exciting Coffee Morning on October 5th at the Village Hall. Join us from 10am until 12 noon for delicious cakes, a selection of books, and lots of friendly chat. Don't miss out on our great raffle too!

Additionally, we warmly invite you to our Harvest Festival on October 13th at the Church, starting at 3pm. Come and sing your favourite Harvest hymns and enjoy a delightful Harvest tea afterwards.

Please keep an eye out for our upcoming Soup and Puddings events. More details will be shared soon.

For any inquiries, please contact our Church Warden, Lynda Grieveson.

Discover a delightful way to spend time with the family at the Valiant Soldier Museum with our Woolly Sheep hunt. Little woolly sheep, crafted by our dedicated volunteers, are hidden throughout the museum. Collect a question sheet from reception to join in the fun, linking to the town's rich wool history. Remember, entry is free for TQ11 residents.

Holy Trinity Graveyard Project: Our archivists are meticulously documenting the graves at Holy Trinity churchyard, a task made challenging since a fire in 1992 destroyed many records. This ongoing project aims to make these records accessible to the public for genealogical research. Feel free to visit us for more information or to contribute any details you might have.

Join us for coffee mornings every Wednesday from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Information Centre. It's a great opportunity to learn about volunteering options and chat with our trustees.

Our opening times are from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 15:30 (last entry at 15:00). We offer a variety of items for sale, including exclusive Valiant mugs, Ordnance maps, a 2025 calendar featuring photos from our archives, various gifts, souvenirs, second-hand books, records, and delicious Salcombe Dairy ice-cream.

Garden Update: We're organizing a gardening work party on September 21st, from 14:00 to 16:00. Tasks include leveling a seating area, moving compost bins, and weeding. Please come prepared with sturdy shoes, gloves, and gardening tools if possible. Refreshments and cake will be provided.

Looking to hire a unique venue? Our rooms are available at reasonable rates. For more details, please visit our website at valiantsoldier.org.uk or contact us at 01364 644522 or via email at info@valiantsoldier.org.uk.

The Valiant Soldier Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, coupled with engaging activities and ample learning opportunities about our local history.

Join us at the upcoming Green Fair on Saturday, 28th September, from 11 am to 3 pm to explore a variety of environmental subjects including climate change and green energy. The event is free and offers a vegan/vegetarian buffet. For stall information, email Judith at clerk@buckfastleigh.gov.uk or call 01364 642576 or 07904 033616.

Help us light up Buckfastleigh this Christmas! We're seeking donations for our Christmas Lights through our GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/Buckfastleigh-Christmas-Lights.

Interested in local governance? Attend our next Town Council meeting on Wednesday, 18th September, from 7.00 to 9.00 pm. Contact Judith for more details.

Mark your calendars for a delightful Sunday on 6th October as Apple Day makes its much-anticipated return! Join us from 12PM to 4PM for an afternoon packed with apple-themed fun.

You'll have the chance to indulge in some tasty treats and activities, including:

• Cider
• Toffee Apples
• An Apple Pie Contest
• Photo Booth
• Market Stalls
• Live Music
• A Special Presentation by the local historical group, the Mummers

Don't miss out on this opportunity to bring along your homemade apple pie for our judges, do a bit of Christmas shopping, and enjoy a splendid day out with friends and family!

Traders interested in booking a market stall can get more details by emailing rcprior96@gmail.com.