Get ready to Laugh out Loud with Exeter's comedy festival

January 31, 2014, 6:37 am

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Let's face it, winter is a time when we all need cheering up, and the Exeter Laugh Out Loud Comedy Festival could be just the tonic. Now in its fourth year, it runs until Friday, February 7, across a multitude of venues in Exeter, and features top-billing, award winning comedians including Mitch Benn (Sunday, February 2), Sean Hughes (Wednesday, February 5) and Alex Horne (Thursday, February 6). For more details on the other comedians taking part visit www.lolexeter.com and www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

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Businessman who pretended to be his much shorter brother branded dishonest by judge

January 31, 2014, 6:54 am

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A failed haulage boss who stole his brother's identity so he could stay in business has been branded thoroughly dishonest by a Judge. Shaun Standen pretended to be his older brother Kevin to get round a ban on being a company director but the ploy came unstuck because he is more than six foot tall and his brother is just 5'4''. The bankrupt businessman was subject to a 15 year prohibition on running any company but was determined to keep his failing haulage business going after landing a lucrative contract. He took on the name of Kevin during dealings with suppliers and transport department officials to hide his involvement in the business, which operated out of a yard behind the Elmore football ground in Tiverton. His moved his old business, which traded as Westcountry Transport and Westcountry Storage and Distribution from its yard East Anstey, near South Molton, to Tiverton and started again under the new name Russet Red. The new business also collapsed, leaving new debts of £350,000, much of it to the taxman, Exeter Crown Court was told Standen, aged 45, of Court Gardens, Stoodleigh, admitted two offences running a company when banned from being a director and was jailed for 16 months, suspended for two years, curfewed for six months, and ordered to pay £5,000 costs. Judge Phillip Wassall told him he was only sparing him jail for the sake of his family and so he would not lose his new job working at a pub run by his grown-up son. He told him:"You were plainly thoroughly dishonest in the way you went about this. It was as clear as a bell. Your dishonesty came shining through this case. "You did this because you needed to keep working to get money and tried to get round the disqualification. It was akin to a serious contempt of court." Miss Bathsheba Cassel, prosecuting, told an earlier hearing how Standen was banned for holding any directorship for 15 years after his previous business went bust, leaving large debts. He adopted the identity of his brother but the deception was unmasked when official from the vehicle licensing authorities became suspicious and showed pictures of both brothers to people who were dealing with Standen. Mr David Sapiecha, defending, said Standen is now working at a pub run by his son and is struggling to care for his wife and ten-year-old son. He has sold his home to help pay off his creditors but is renting it back and is very short of money. He said:"This is not a case where these matters are compounded by other offences such as fraudulent trading. It was a situation where it was is work and his business and he was trying to keep things going. "He was trying to keep going to pay for his family and to pay off other debts that built up."

Doctors warn on impact of grim weather to come

January 31, 2014, 7:25 am

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Health bosses have urged extra care over the coming days as more rain and colder weather is forecast to move in. The Exeter-based Met Office has issued several amber and yellow warnings for the next few days as low temperatures and more rain coinciding with high tide surges sweep through the region. Dr Rob Turner, a GP in Topsham and board member of the Eastern Locality of NEW Devon CCG, said: "With the expected wet and cold weather expected over the next few days we would ask anyone, especially the frail and the elderly, to be extra careful when going outside. "Every year hospital emergency departments such as at the RD&E Hospital see an increase in the number of people who have slipped, tripped or fallen because of the bad weather. Spending a day or more in hospital when you could be with your family is nobody's idea of fun so take extra care." Dr Turner is asking people to make sure their home is warm enough, they have plenty of warm food, as well as a well stocked medicine cabinet. He added: "We would remind people that there are alternatives to emergency departments, especially if it's not an emergency. Coughs and colds may be easily treated at home. Pharmacies and GP surgeries will give you the advice you need, or you can call the new NHS 111 number." The cold weather advice ties in with a newly launched eight-week awareness campaign from NHS England to help people stay well longer. The 'Earlier, the Better campaign' aims to encourage people to make greater use of the self-care information about minor ailments and illnesses on the NHS Choices website, as well as more use of the services available in community pharmacies.

Tiverton man in court charged with eight counts of historic rape

January 31, 2014, 7:56 am

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A 60-year-old man from Tiverton has appeared before a Crown Court judge accused of allegations of historic sex abuse. Phillip Edwards was not required to make a plea at the short preliminary hearing at Exeter Crown Court where resident Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, set a timetable for the progress of the case. Edwards, of Broad Lane, Tiverton, is facing charges of eight offences of rape allegedly committed against the same under age complainant in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His case was adjourned for a fresh hearing in May, when he will be required to enter pleas. A provisional trial date has been set for October. Edwards was released on bail.

Burglar who targeted students at Exeter University jailed

January 31, 2014, 8:12 am

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A homeless burglar has been jailed after he smashed down doors in a student accommodation block to steal valuables from rooms. Gareth Preston was caught red-handed by a maintenance man as he raided the rooms at the converted grammar school building in Exeter on the first day of the new University term. Shocked students returned from their Christmas vacations to find doors had been forced open or ripped off their hinges by Preston, who had only been out of jail for a few weeks. Preston, aged 31, formerly of Clyst St Mary, Exeter, admitted three burglaries and was jailed for 29 months by Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, at Exeter Crown Court. The judge told him he was subject to a mandatory sentence because he has two previous convictions for domestic burglaries. Mr Gordon Richings, prosecuting, said a maintenance man working at the former Bishop Blackall girls' grammar school in New North Road, Exeter found Preston on the premises on January 5. A male and female students arriving back from vacation found their rooms had been broken into. Jewellery had been stolen from the girl's room and a single cufflink from the boy's, which was found in Preston's pocket. Mr Richings said:"The building as a whole was entered by the removal of a wooden door panel and the door of the female student's room had been forced off its hinges. "A gold necklace, a silver necklace, a watch and cash were stolen from her room and a single cuff link from the other room." Mr Jason Beal, defending, said the offence had been committed at a time when Preston was living a chaotic lifestyle but he deserves credit for admitting his involvement straight away.

East Devon's Deer Park hotel among winners at South West Tourism Excellence Awards

January 31, 2014, 8:36 am

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A country house hotel in East Devon was among the winners when businesses from across the region gathered at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards 2013-14. The Deer Park, near Honiton, picked up silver in the Venue and Business Tourism Category, just a few months after winning silver in the Devon Tourism Awards. The hotel has now been invited to enter the Visit England Awards. The Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink was highly commended in the Tourism Event of the Year category. Mark Godfrey, managing director at the Deer Park, said: "We are utterly thrilled to have been crowned silver in the South West Tourism Awards; it's great to see all the hard work is paying off. "Over the last year, we've made some huge transformations to the hotel and grounds. We are continuing to invest in the hotel this year, with work already in full swing to refurbish the hotel's mews bedrooms which overlook the walled garden. "Our aim is to be one of the leading hotel and wedding venues in the South West, so all of these fabulous additions will certainly help us achieve this goal, along with the dedication and passion from our top notch team." This year the South West Tourism Awards saw nearly 350 entries, with all entrants undergoing a rigorous short-listing process and 213 going on to be visited by a team of 35 mystery shoppers. Winners were revealed on Thursday night at Plymouth's Holiday Inn, where 66 different awards were announced. This year's event was hosted by ITV Westcountry news presenter Ian Axton, with an opening presentation by travel writer Sally Shalam. The awards broke the previous record for entries. Amongst the gold winners were the English Riviera Tourism Company, the Arundell Arms, River Cottage in Plymouth and the Old Rectory Hotel. Pennywell Farm received a special award for water management whilst the award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism went to the South West Coast Path. The night's final Winner of Winners award went to Calvert Trust Exmoor, who also picked up two other golds having inspired the judging panel with their achievements, vision and inspiration. Up to four award winners from each category will now go on to represent the region at the National Enjoy England Awards for Excellence in May. Chairman of judges Alistair Handyside said: "It's that time of year when the tourism industry get together to present the top businesses in our region with their well-deserved awards. "This year we have had the most entries ever and the most challenging judging, the list of finalists really does look like a who's who of the best in the South West. Once again the entrants have surpassed themselves in showing that investment, innovation and creativity remain at the heart of the visitor economy in the region." John Crouch, marketing manager for sponsors Source for Business, said: "The Tourism Awards once again demonstrate how impressively the tourism sector is delivering a great visitor experience in the south west. What is especially pleasing is how businesses are embracing sustainability and particularly water efficiency as demonstrated by Pennywell Farm, winners of the special award for water management." Robin Barker, of Services for Tourism, who manages the awards programme, added: "After 10 months of work, this year's awards are finally drawing to a close. The event is just a small part of it all – the major tasks being liaising with business, managing the judging and helping our best get even better! Very many thanks to all concerned – the sponsors, judges and entrants. It's great working with such an enlightened group."Other winners and runners-up from Devon included: West Pitt Farm, Tiverton – Highly commended in the Self Catering Establishment of the Year category. Cofton Country Holidays, Dawlish, won bronze in the Holiday Park of the Year category, while Finlake Holiday Park, at Chudleigh, was highly commended. The Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life took bronze in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category. The Jack in the Green, at Rockbeare, and the Lamb Inn, at Sandford, were both highly commended in the Tourism Pub of the Year category. Exeter-based Countryside Mobility South West claimed bronze in the Access for All Award.

Central overcome Tiverton

January 31, 2014, 10:38 am

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Tiverton Youth 2 Central United 3 CENTRAL United made it three wins out of four by beating Tiverton Youth in a thrilling division two match. Tiverton took the lead, only for Pacey Large to level after completing a great passing move. Matthew Williams put Central ahead with a long-range effort before Euan Land kept his cool to tuck away a third to seal the points.

Former Exeter City manager Peter Fox will face historic abuse charges

January 31, 2014, 2:45 pm

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Former Exeter City manager Peter Fox will face historic charges of abuse next year. The former Stoke City goalkeeper is being sued by George Blackstock, a former apprentice, over accusations Fox, aged 56, abused him with a goalkeeping glove in the 80s. Judge Philip Butler made a judgement at Preston County Court yesterday that a full High Court trial will go ahead in January. Fox, who refused to speak to the press following the hearing, denies the claims and insisted he is determined to clear his name. The former goalie, who played for The Potters 447 times between 1978 and 1993. is accused of assaulting the apprentice with a goalkeeping glove covered in Deep Heat, as part of a 'punishment ritual' in the 1980s. Fox joined Exeter City, initially as player-coach, being made manager in 1995 after the departure of Terry Cooper. He left St James Park in January 2000, replaced by his assistant Noel Blake.

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Chagstock Festival 2014 headline acts announced

February 3, 2014, 7:12 am

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CHAGSTOCK FESTIVAL have announced that million-selling alt-rock legends, The Waterboys, will headline their main stage on Saturday night. Chagstock is one of the Westcountry's best-loved festivals. Set in 70 acres of farmland on the edge of Dartmoor, Chagstock is renowned for its stunning location, diverse line-up of artists and non-corporate, family friendly atmosphere. Chagstock showcases the very best music, food and entertainment that the Westcountry and the UK have to offer. Formed 30 years ago by Mike Scott, The Waterboys became famous for their powerful live performances and albums such as A Pagan Place and This Is The Sea, which included their biggest hit The Whole Of The Moon. After the recruitment of Irish fiddle maestro Steve Wickham, the band created their million-selling Fisherman's Blues album, on which Scott's original and unusual songwriting was merged with older musics - country, trad, blues and gospel - to electrifying effect. Since then The Waterboys have continued to make genre-busting records and have matured into one of the world's finest live acts. After selling out the entire allocation of early bird tickets in record time, all tickets, camping options and vehicle passes for this year's festival are now on sale at www.chagstock.info The first acts confirmed for 2014 are Saturday headliners, The Waterboys, legendary 2-Tone band, The Selecter; Award winning Canadian band The Stanfields, who blend hard rock with traditional atlantic folk; Hotly-tipped English blues-rockers Sam Green & The Midnight Heist; wonderfully chaotic high-energy Balkan folksters Sheelanagig and local Okehampton rockers, Downfall. Chagstock's house band, New Crisis also perform their traditional main stage slot. This year's Fancy Dress Theme will be 'The Wild West!' Last year's festival sold out for the second year running, and featured memorable performances from The Boomtown Rats, Billy Bragg and The Mystery Jets amongst many others. As introduced in 2012 in recognition of the tough economic climate for families, all children under 12 can attend the festival for free (ticket is required). Chagstock's capacity is once again capped at just 5,000 tickets to ensure that its intimate, family-friendly atmosphere is maintained. Simon Ford Chagstock Festival organiser says, "I am delighted that Chagstock has now sold out two years in a row! With acts such as The Waterboys and The Selecter already confirmed and many more to come, the whole team is really excited for 2014. We are all working hard to make this year's event the best yet! Once again we are sticking to the non-corporate vibe and family friendly atmosphere with loads of great and varied music, food and entertainment" Weekend Tickets are priced at £75 (Adults), £50 (Under 18's), Under 12's are free (ticket is still required). A Family Ticket for 2 Adults & 2 Under 18s is £210. Camper / Caravans / Live-in Vehicles just £15 per vehicle All weekend tickets include 2 nights of camping and car parking. Booking fees apply. Tickets are available from http://www.chagstock.info/buy-tickets http://www.chagstock.info

Exeter Christmas market wins national award after drawing in 500,000 visitors last year

February 3, 2014, 7:58 am

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Exeter's Christmas Market has won a prestigious national award. The festive market was awarded the title of 'Speciality Market of the Year' by the National Association of British Market Authorities at their annual seminar held in Birmingham last week. The market was introduced in 2012 and is a joint initiative by Exeter Cathedral Chapter, Exeter Chamber of Commerce, Exeter and Heart of Devon Hoteliers & Restaurants Association and Exeter City Council. It is designed and operated by Market Place, one of the UK's leading market providers. Cllr Rosie Denham, Exeter City Council's Lead Councillor for Economy and Culture, said: "It is fantastic to see the Christmas Market get the recognition it deserves. The market is an example of how different organisations in the city can work together to produce something worthwhile for the City's residents and which attracts more visitors to Exeter. "The co-operation between all parties to introduce the market has resulted in another major attraction for the city. This complements the permanent improvements to the City Centre we have seen in recent years and helps put Exeter firmly on the map as a destination for Christmas shopping." The Dean of Exeter Cathedral, the Very Revd Jonathan Draper, said: "It is great news that the quality of Exeter's Christmas Market has been recognised in this way. Thousands of people came to this year's market on Cathedral Green, where many local traders were represented. The market on Cathedral Green occupies a very special place in the heart of the city, with the unique backdrop of the Cathedral. We are pleased to be working with Exeter City Council and Market Place to deliver a high quality experience for people." James Sharp, Chairman of the Devon Hotels and Restaurants association said: "When we put the vision together we wanted to provide a great Christmas shopping experience for those in and around Exeter as well as visitors from further afield. To be recognised in this way in just the market's second year is a wonderful achievement and a credit to all involved." Last year's market opened for business from 21 November until 19 December and the number of visitors was estimated by Market Place at around 500,000, a 40% increase on the estimate for 2012. Nick Rhodes, Market Place's Chief Executive said: "The market received visitors from numerous locations within a 150 mile radius, some of whom had never been to Exeter before. Our extensive marketing activity and social media platforms generated a lot of interest in the Market and certainly added to the excitement about it. We work hard to ensure the Christmas market adds to the festive experience of the city and we are already preparing for this year. "We are delighted to have won this award which is a testimony to the excellent partnership between Market Place and the local organisations involved, while also not forgetting all the tremendous efforts from the traders who supported the event."

Water innovations on the agenda at Exeter Initiative for Science & Technology event

February 3, 2014, 8:09 am

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Water was the common theme flowing through a diverse collection of talks at the latest meeting of the Exeter Initiative for Science & Technology. Mike Davies, head of procurement at South West Water, explained how the Exeter-based utility company adopts innovative technology through its supply chain to enable the region's drinking water, sewerage systems and bathing waters to comply with stringent UK and European standards. George Arnison, from the Environment Agency, provided an overview of the Exeter flood defence scheme and described how technology is being used to overcome key challenges in the current project. Professor Dragan Savic, of the University of Exeter, offered an insight into how advances in data collection and analysis are being applied to water systems to deliver benefits including faster warnings of flooding and pollution incidents. The Flybe training academy was the venue for ExIST's first networking event of 2014, which also featured an introduction to the EU's Horizon 2020 funding programme. Sarah Hill, the university's European research manager, outlined how companies can apply for a share of 70 billion euros of funding for research and innovation projects.

Have you seen this man? Police appeal to find Dawlish holiday park robbery suspect

February 3, 2014, 8:13 am

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Police are appealing for the public's helping in finding a man suspected of being involved in the robbery of a Dawlish holiday park last summer. Dean Smart (pictured) is wanted in connection with a robbery at Golden Sands Holiday Park in Dawlish Warren in the early hours of August 27th. Three other men have been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. They remain on remand in prison, awaiting trial. Smart, 27, from the Bath area, is considered dangerous and police believe he is actively evading capture. Officers would appreciate any information that the public may have surrounding his whereabouts. Anyone seeing him should not approach him but call police, immediately on 999, or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, quoting JG/13/1616.

Jury discharged in Newton Abbot baby cruelty case

February 3, 2014, 8:35 am

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The jury have been discharged from reaching a verdict in the case of a man accused of injuring a 21-month-old baby girl at her mother's home in Newton Abbot. Liam Bray will now have to wait to discover whether he will face a retrial over the allegations, which date back to June 2011. He was ruled to be unfit to plead at the start of the week long trial which carried on even though he was not able to give evidence in his own defence. The jury were unable to reach either unanimous or majority verdicts after being in retirement at Exeter Crown Court for more than two days. Judge Phillip Wassall discharged them and gave prosecutor Miss Mary McCarthy time to consult the Crown Prosecution Service on whether there will be a retrial. At the start of the case Judge Phillip Wassall told the jury that the case is highly unusual because he has already ruled that Bray is unfit to plead after hearing evidence from two psychiatrists. Bray, aged 21, of Washington Close, Paignton, denied child cruelty against the baby on June 1, 2011. During the case the child's mother told how she found injuries to the girl's private parts when she changed the nappy after returning home from a short visit to the doctor. She had left the baby in the sole charge of Bray whose last contact with her had been a text saying he was about to bathe her. Miss Mary McCarthy, prosecuting, said Bray had been in a relationship with the baby's mother for seven months and stayed at her home occasionally, helping with child care on occasions. On the morning in question she had a doctor's appointment and left her flat in Newton Abbot with both the baby and Bray asleep and having asked him to look after the girl. She received texts while she was out telling her he was giving the child breakfast and was about to bathe her but when she got home around noon she found both her daughter and Bray asleep. The child had a soiled nappy but when she went to change it she saw blood and bruising. She took the baby to her doctor despite pleas from Bray not to and was referred to hospital and a sexual abuse clinic. Mr Lee Bremridge, defending, said there was no direct evidence that Bray was responsible for the injuries and urged the jury to be extremely cautious because of his inability to defend himself against the allegations.

Calls for new Exeter Library room to be named after founder of Penguin Books

February 3, 2014, 8:48 am

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Could the founder of Penguin Books be commemorated by having a room in the refurbished Exeter Central Library named after him? Members of Exeter Board were happy with the decision to name the revamped area in front of the library Rougemont Place and Simon Bowkett, city councillor for Pinhoe posed the question that one of the rooms in the library could be named after Sir Allen Lane who, the story goes, was inspired to create paperbacks book while waiting for a train at Exeter St David's. The year was 1934 and Sir Allen, who worked for the family publishing firm Bodley Head, had been paying a visit to Agatha Christie and found himself at the station with nothing handy to read. The suggestion is to go back to the county council for consideration. Meanwhile members of Exeter Board have agreed to pay "up to £5,000" to support an opening programme of events to mark the launch of the refurbished Exeter Central Library. Ciara Eastell, correct Devon's head of libraries, culture and heritage, told the board: "We are keen to make as big a splash as we can and invite every school in the city to have a class visit. "So often we do things on a shoestring in libraries, and we would like to do it to a better standard and reach more people." The county council was asking the board for £5,000, and board member Cllr Rob Hannaford said it would be a shame to spoil the ship for a ha'worth of tar, particularly if the money was to be used to get children involved in reading. However, fellow board member Cllr Emma Morse felt they should wait to see more about how the schools would be involved before agreeing to spend the money. Eventually the board agreed to spend up to £5,000 on the official opening and leave it to its grants committee to decide what the eventual figure would be.

Update: No trains between Exeter and Newton Abbot until Wednesday due to damage caused by weather

February 3, 2014, 8:48 am

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UPDATE: There are currently no trains Exeter St Davids to Newton Abbot because of poor weather. The delays will last until Wednesday 5 February due to major damage caused by the weather. Passengers have been advised to use Stagecoach South West buses on reasonable routes. A Stagecoach South West spokesperson commented "We have not currently had an approach from First Great Western with regards to accepting their train tickets on our bus services. Therefore anyone wishing to use our buses instead of the train will need to buy a ticket in order to travel." -------------- Several trains running between Exeter and Newton Abbot have been cancelled due to extreme weather. Emergency engineering work is needed to repair sections of track damaged by the poor weather conditions being experienced between Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot. First Great Western have said that because of this damage, trains are unable to run between Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot. This disruption will continue until the end of service. A limited replacement bus service is in operation between these stations. Journey times may be extended by up to 60 minutes.

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What you should know about... Seth Lakeman

February 3, 2014, 8:49 am

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Devon-based Seth Lakeman has been at the forefront of the re-emergence of British Folk. His new album Word of Mouth is released on Monday, February 3, which coincides with a tour, including a date at Exeter Cathedral on Friday, February 7. For tickets visit www.exeterphoenix.org.ukWhat inspires you? The landscape I live in – the moors. My home is in Tavistock.What's the best piece of advice you've received/ lesson you've learned? Less is more; it's quality, not quantity.When were you happiest? Right now because I've just had twins. I have also been very lucky in my career, but I would have to say now.What's your biggest regret? Not carrying on playing football. I gave up when I was 17 and was pretty good. I tried out for Plymouth Argyle's Centre of Excellence but didn't get through. My mind was elsewhere!What's your greatest triumph? Climbing Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka (a 7,300 foot tall mountain in the jungle of Sri Lanka, sacred to several different religions). I was backpacking out there two years ago and to climb it I walked all through the night and got there for sunrise.What's the secret of life? Is it a secret to be happy? I guess it's good balance of work, enjoyment and everything. Balance is the key of contentment.If you could do it all again, what would you do differently? I would maybe not take things so seriously. In music and song-writing you can take yourself too seriously.What qualities do you admire in the people closest to you? A constant smile. I'm looking at my dog now and he is actually smiling!Tell us a secret about yourself... I used to skateboard. I've still got it and have a go now and again but I know I'll hurt myself. I'll teach the twins when they're old enough!What do you make of Exeter? It's the alternative centre of Devon. It's a city I used to go out in a lot but it's not got great nightlife. To be honest it's not one of my favourite cities in Devon. I prefer Plymouth; it's nearer to home.

Devon artisans: Topsham's Eric Horne, with toys to treasure

February 3, 2014, 8:55 am

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Self-taught toymaker Eric Horne is renowned worldwide for his hand-crafted wooden creations. Since discovering a hidden talent for making traditional toys nearly 40 years ago, Eric has become a favourite among many private collectors, and his work has also been on the television and stage. Anita Merritt visits the home of the Topsham toymaker to discover where the toys are brought to life Trying to track down Eric Horne is never hard because the furthest he often ventures from his house is down the bottom of the garden to his shed. It's here where the hub of creativity begins and ends in the Topsham toymaker's modest workshop crammed with bits of wood, machinery and an all sorts of well-organised craft materials. Working mainly in hard woods which are turned, the emphasis is on creating traditional fine detailed painted toys including dolls, gollies and miniatures. Eric also produces what is believed to be the smallest doll in the world – measuring a mere quarter of an inch and has moveable arms and legs. "I just sat myself down and worked out how to do it," says Eric, modestly. "They are very difficult to make and patience is one thing I do have so I'm pretty lucky. To make one takes about six hours and 30 years, as my wife says!" On the other end of the scale, the largest doll Eric makes is 36 inches, and has been sold worldwide, including London department store Liberty and luxury New York department store Bergdorf Goodman in Fifth Avenue. Many end up in the home of private collectors or become much-loved toys. "I have a lot of older customers as the toys I make bring back memories of when they were children," says Eric, a fellow of the International Guild of Miniature Artisans in America. "The younger generation don't seem to be so interested. "Toy trends do not have an effect on me because I do more traditional woodworking which are of a certain era which people love. They are a luxury item because of the work that goes into making them." Keeping the traditional craft of toymaking alive was neither a conscious decision nor a skill Eric knew he had until 1975 when he was made redundant for the second time and suffered a breakdown. The former security guard recalls: "The doctor suggested I try to do something with my hands so I took up woodturning because I had seen it being done and fancied giving it a go. I bought some tools and a lathe and taught myself. "Most people can do the making but can't paint them, but I can do both so I'm fortunate. It's a very happy craft and I like the painting a lot as it brings them to life, but I also like the carving side as well. The more you do it the more fun you get out of it. "Around the same time I started woodturning, one of my wife's friends had opened a shop in Topsham and asked if I could make her a doll. It was only half an inch and it was roughly made, but she thought it was perfect. "Then I made some more for her to put in the shop window and they were spotted by a man who had a shop in central London and asked if I could supply him with some. "Then they were seen by an American who wanted to sell them and it took off from there and I really got into it – and I still am!" As well as dolls, Eric also makes miniature figures including Humpty Dumpty, a swinging clown and Pinocchio. It's the dolls side though that keeps Eric busiest and some of his creations have even ended up on the West End stage, and two of his larger dolls made a brief appearance in Miss Potter. Eric, a member of the Devon Guild of Craftsmen explains: "Once you're in a position of being known you get lots of different offers come in. I have done a lot of specialised work and have been very, very lucky. "Last year I was asked to make some dolls for an exhibition called Victoria Revealed at Kensington Palace based on Queen Victoria's doll collection." Despite now being 75 years old, Eric has no intention of ever retiring from woodworking, much to the delight of his collectors. "I could never retire or stop what I'm doing," he says. "I have slowed down a bit but there's always dolls to repair so I'd like to carry on doing what I do and hopefully pleasing a lot of people. "People are born with a skills but not everyone gets to learn what that skill is so I am very lucky." For examples of Eric's work visit www.erichorne.co.ukSee a gallery of Eric's work here.

Topsham landowners accuse Environment Agency of "ignorance"

February 3, 2014, 9:45 am

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The Environment Agency (EA) has been accused of "ignorance" and "arrogance" as business owners, campaigners and farmers warn that the failures of the Somerset Levels could be repeated on a small scale in Devon. A long-running environmental conflict erupted last year over plans to breach river banks and allow sea waters to flood fields alongside the River Exe, near Topsham, thereby creating a new inter-tidal habitat. Opponents, who met yesterday to assess the effect of the latest high water, claim that abandoning the Lower Clyst Valley and simply letting nature take its course threatens to inundate a major route into the city ten times a year on spring tides. Nigel Cheffers-Heard, who lives at the 16th century Bridge Inn beside a crossing over the Clyst connecting Exeter with the east of the Exe estuary, said the agency was offering farmers thousands of pounds per acre to flood land. "We have got the same problem as the Somerset Levels here - they stopped dredging 25 years ago," he added. "The EA have a biased view that this is about habitat creation but things have moved on with these extreme weather events and people and their needs need to be put back into the equation" Officials says the project, part of a greater Exe Estuary plan, which proposes to "hold the line" at some points along the tidal river with "managed realignment" at others, said dredging was unlikely to restart in the foreseeable future, given the need to focus on more pressing problems such as the River Parrett. A spokesman added: "We are exploring the options and negotiating with landowners as to what they are prepared to accept or not – we want to tap into local knowledge. "It is a very different from the Somerset Levels." But Michael Dart, who runs the nearby Darts Farm Shop, said the EA were not engaging with locals who have managed the land for centuries. "Their attitude is arrogant and ignorant," he added. "They have this blanket policy which says homes or agricultural land but some land also protects homes. "Somerset farmers have been telling them this would happen for two years and we and we have been doing the same." Tim Hale, of the CPRE in East Devon, said the "fundamental concern" was the loss of good agricultural land.

Drivers warned of ice on roads after parts of Exeter and East Devon see a dusting of snow and hail

February 3, 2014, 3:14 pm

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Drivers are being reminded to take extra care on Tuesday morning after roads across Devon saw ice and a dusting of snow on Monday night. East Devon and Exeter saw a dusting of snow and hail in parts. Social media reports suggest Okehampton, Honiton and even Exeter saw a light dusting of snow. The Exeter-based Met Office said Exeter will see sunny spells and a scattering of showers on Tuesday morning with the showers heavy at times. Adding hail and thunder was possible at first. Turning wet and very windy from the west through the afternoon. RAC have offered the following advice on driving in ice:• Only drive if it's absolutely necessary and don't be afraid to turn back if you think the conditions are too treacherous• Make sure you windows are completley clear before you start driving.• If you're driving to meet someone, let them know where you are travelling and when you expect to arrive• You may need to leave as much as 10 times the normal recommended gap between you and the car in front• If you do encounter a skid, steer into it - for example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right. Do not take your hands off the steering wheel or stamp your foot on the brakes• Controls such as the brakes, as well as the steering, accelerator and even gear changing should be operated both smoothly and slowly• A higher gear may be more appropriate to aid the tyres gripping when moving off on packed ice Did you see snow? If so we wold love to see your pictures. Email them to us on echonews@expressandecho.co.uk

Athletics round-up: Exmouth Harriers' Merson retains Fulfords Five title

February 4, 2014, 9:45 am

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EXMOUTH HARRIERS TOM Merson won his hometown race for the second year in a row as he finished first in Exmouth Harriers' Fuldfords Five road race. Running as a Harrier, his second-claim club, Merson beat his time from 2013 by 19 seconds as he crossed the line in 24mins 31secs. That gave him a two-minute winning margin over second-placed Jon James. The outstanding female run, allowing for age, came from Exmouth's Cathy Newman as she finished second woman behind Tiverton Harrier Serane Stone, who is 14 years her junior. Newman was 29th overall in 29.52 and won the female over-50 category. Four of the club's members who are in their 70s took part, with Mike Keep 179th in 42.11, Mick Allen 183rd in 42.31, Jim Wyatt 221st in 47.17 and John Perratt 231st in 48.16. Other Harriers finishers were: Andrew Johnson 60th in 33.05, Richard Pyle 86th in 34.40, Carly Miller 107th in 36.04, Sarah Jackman 127th in 37.39 and Roger Riggs 195th in 45.33 SOUTH WEST ROAD RUNNERS On Sunday an impressive 27 members of South West Road Runners took part in the Fulfords Five in Exmouth. Matthew Bellamy was the first member of the Exeter-based club home, recording a new personal best of 27.56 to finish 10th. Jody Bee also set a PB on the course with 28.49, finishing 19th, and the third road runners was Paul Thomas, 26th in 29.33. The first woman to finish for SWRR was Alexandra Cutts, coming home in 31.20 to finish 38th overall and third female. Other SWRR finishers were: Barry Frost 47th in 32.21, Jim Durston 55th in 32.48, Jamie Daveridge 67th in 33.27, Karen Cook 68th in 33.29, Mark Heywood 69th in 33.35, David Moulder 70th in 33.35, Jonathan Major 73rd in 33.46, Lewis Jones 75th in 33.55, Nick Potbury 96th in 35.15, Amanda Perry 99th in 35.22, John Kavagnah 103rd in 35.46, Caroline Gentry 104th in 35.49, Kathryn Hough 106th in 36.03, Julie Hedges 112th in 36.40, Tony Gale 113th in 36.43, Geoffrey Smith 118th in 37.00, Clare Suss 124th in 37.29, Peter Williams 141th in 39.00, Lawrence Atherton 147th in 39.33, David Pressley 148th in 39.47, Gavin Connor 157 in 40.14, David Philips 172nd in 41.46, Vicky Nolan 198th in 44.21 and Debra Pressley 213th in 45.39 Two members of South West Road Runners took part in the Braunton 10. Andy Jones was 21st overall and second male over-50 in 1:06.57, with Jim Durston 47th in 1:13.30. INSTEP DEVON CHAMPIONSHIP After three races, Exeter Harrier Simon Minting continues to lead the way in the InStep Devon Championship. Forty competitors from member clubs took part in the Fulfords Five at Exmouth on Sunday. Minting scored 42 points to remain at the top of the senior male standings, while Tiverton Harrier Serane Stone picked up a maximum 50 for being the first female over-35 to lead that section. South West Road Runners' Lewis Jones was the second male over-60 to collect 49 points. The next championship event is the Bampton to Tiverton road race on Easter Monday, April 21. Section leaders after three events, senior male: Simon Minting (Exeter Harriers) 132pts. Senior female: Emma White (Exmouth Harriers) 49, Katherine Humphreys (Exeter Harriers) 49. Male over-40: Jim Durston (SWRR) 74. Male over-50: Paul Thomas (SWRR) 49. Male over-60: Lewis Jones (SWRR) 49. Female over-35: Serane Stone (Tiverton Harriers) 100. Female over-45: Carol Austin (Axe Valley Runners) 92. Female over-55: Eileen Sanders (Tiverton Harriers) 89 EXETER HARRIERS Exeter Harriers' Rebecca Chapman set down her mark at the Welsh Senior Indoor Championships in Cardiff with a new personal best in the long jump. The former English Schools champion's leap of 6.12m was good enough to take the silver medal. Beaten by Amy Woodman of Birchfield Harriers with a jump of 6.21m, Chapman's performance puts her fifth in the UK rankings. Owen Walpole reached the finals of the 1,500m at the Scottish Senior Indoor Championships at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow. A run of 4.02.08 put him fourth in heat two and he went on to finish fifth in the final in 3.59.44. Jordan Finch won the 200m at the South West Senior Indoor Championships in Cardiff. Finch finished first in 23.19secs, and also clocked 7.28secs to finish fourth in the 60m. Jack Webber was seventh in the 60m with 7.50secs and was fourth in the 400m in 53.95secs, with Catherine Harman fifth in the 800m on her indoor debut in 2.36.13. AXE VALLEY RUNNERS Carol Austin was the third female over-50, and 91st overall, at the Fulfords Five road race in Exmouth on Sunday. She finished the five-mile route in a personal best of 34.54. Sue and Mike Venn also ran, with Sue finishing as the third female over-60, 203rd overall, in 44.40, while Mike was 252nd in 51.38. HALDON TRAIL RUNNERS Two Haldon Trail Runners competed in Exmouth Harriers' Fulfords Five race on Sunday. Angus Menter came home in 13th place in the five-mile road race in 28.11, with Alex Watkins just behind, finishing 16th in 28.30.