North Devon Now

26/03/2026

Our friends at Age Concern are looking for a volunteer. If you feel you may be able to help please get in touch.

👋 VACANCY AVAILABLE: Volunteer Booking Desk Assistants – Community Transport
Would you like to make a real difference to people in your local community? We need friendly, reliable volunteers to join our Community Transport Booking Desk Team. You’ll be helping local residents access essential journeys—such as medical appointments, shopping trips, and social activities—by taking their calls and arranging bookings.

What we’re looking for
😁 A confident, friendly telephone manner – you’ll be the first point of contact for our passengers.
💻 Comfort using computers – including Outlook email and our transport booking system (full training provided).
👍 Good attention to detail – helping ensure bookings are accurate and smooth.
🤩 Enjoys chatting with people and offering great customer service.

What you’ll gain
💚 A supportive, warm, welcoming environment where you'll be valued by people who appreciate your time.
💜 Full training and ongoing support.
❤ The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of local people.
💛 A rewarding role that fits around your availability.

👉 Tuesdays and Thursday between 9:30 - 15:00
Or a Morning shift 09:30 - 12:30 / Afternoon Shift 12:30 - 15:30
Potential for emergency cover too, for when other volunteers are unable to come in.
🩷 Interested in joining us?
We’d love to hear from you! 👌

Get in touch to find out more or to apply. You can give us a call or drop us an email—whatever suits you best. please get in touch with our Volunteer Manager Jill Ackland on 01271 445134 or email jill@ageconcernnorthdevon.org.uk.
👍 You can call into our office, Suite 301, Queen's House, Queen Street, Barnstaple, EX32 8HJ, Monday – Friday 9.30am-3.30pm.

26/03/2026

£15 Ferry Across the Bristol Channel Moves Closer as “Compelling” Case Sparks Major Interest

Plans for a high-speed, low-cost ferry linking Swansea with south-west England have taken a significant step forward, with a new report backing the scheme as economically “compelling”.

The proposed service would see zero-emission ferries crossing the Bristol Channel at speeds of up to 40 knots, with fares expected to start from around £15 per journey. If delivered, the project could offer a faster and more sustainable alternative to driving along the often congested M4 and M5.

Commissioned by Swansea Council and led by Ocean Prime Industries Ltd, the report explored demand, pricing, environmental impact and long-term viability. It found overwhelming public support for the idea, with 97.8% of more than 4,000 respondents in favour of the scheme.

The proposed “OceanJet Line” could eventually see up to eight vessels in operation, each capable of carrying hundreds of passengers along with cars and light cargo. Services could run up to 20 times a day for most of the year, with the first crossings potentially launching by 2030.

Routes under consideration include links between Swansea and locations such as Ilfracombe, Appledore and Burry Port, although final decisions on ports and infrastructure are yet to be made.

The vessels would be powered by a combination of hydrogen and electric energy, positioning the project at the forefront of green maritime technology. Alongside environmental benefits, the report highlights the potential to create hundreds of direct jobs and support thousands more across the wider supply chain, while boosting tourism and regional economies on both sides of the channel.

Despite strong backing, several challenges remain. These include the need for investment in port infrastructure, the development of hydrogen supply chains, and designing vessels capable of handling the Bristol Channel’s demanding weather and tidal conditions. However, the report concludes these are practical hurdles rather than fundamental barriers.

Dave Sampson, who authored the report, described the project as a “nationally significant strategic” initiative, comparable in ambition to major infrastructure projects such as HS2. He also suggested that a working prototype vessel could be developed as early as this year.

The proposal will now move into a more detailed planning phase, with further collaboration expected between councils, industry partners and government bodies across the region.

Cllr Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, said:
“The findings give us confidence to move into the next stage of work… to examine how a service like this could be delivered.”

While enthusiasm is high, some voices have urged caution, highlighting the importance of long-term investment planning and realistic expectations around delivery.

If successful, the ferry could transform travel across the Bristol Channel, offering a quicker, greener and more affordable connection between South Wales and the south-west of England.

13/03/2026

GET READY! The Woodyard Easter Quiz is hopping your way! 🐇

Time to brush up on your trivia, and join us for an evening of laughter and friendly competition.

📅 Date: Saturday 28th March 2026
🕖 Time: Quiz begins at 7pm
📍 Venue: Castle Centre Hall, 25 Castle Street, Barnstaple EX31 1DR
🎟 Tickets: Just £5 per person

🥪 Bring your own food and drinks (alcoholic or otherwise) and settle in for a great night out.

BOOK YOUR PLACE on the Eventbrite site here: https://tinyurl.com/3hr8t8hb

Their brilliant Quiz Master will be putting your knowledge to the test with a mix of questions on a range of topics. So come on your own, bring friends or family or join others on the night – everyone is welcome and all Easter bunnies are invited!
Doors open from 6.30pm.

All funds raised will support The Woodyard UK, a community project hosted by North Devon Voluntary Services - NDVS and inspired by the work of well-known author Ann Cleeves.

We promise you a fun community atmosphere and the chance to support a great local cause, creating activities and spaces where no-one feels lonely and all are welcome. The Woodyard UK

12/03/2026

Crack the Case This Easter: RHS Gardens Launch Family Detective Trails and Spring Adventures

With the Easter holidays just around the corner, families can enjoy the great outdoors with egg-cellent activities across all five RHS Gardens. Families can become Easter detectives with a cracking activity trail to discover ‘Who Framed the Easter Bunny', immerse themselves in the beloved world of Wind in the Willows, and enjoy the arrival of spring.

Spring is the perfect time to take in the spectacular plant life as the gardens come alive with incredible seasonal colour. Visitors can take in glorious displays of camellias, rhododendrons, blossoms and magnolias as well as beautiful spring bulbs, uplifting signs that signal the start of the gardening season.

The Easter Detectives: Who Framed the Easter Bunny
Selected dates between 3 - 28 March
Families can enjoy a cracking family adventure at the five RHS Gardens this Easter with The Easter Detectives trail. The brand-new experience invites families to solve the mystery of who framed the Easter Bunny, following clues linked to eight sneaky suspects. Using an activity pack, families can embark on a puzzle-solving adventure to uncover the truth behind the missing chocolate, save Easter and earn a chocolate treat to take home.
Along the way visitors can enjoy the gardens bursting with spring colour from vibrant bulbs to beautiful blossoms.

Activity packs cost £3 per child in addition to garden entry. Pre-booking guarantees a Detective Pack on arrival, walk-up purchases will be subject to availability.

Dates, times, and activities vary per garden; please see below and check the website for details: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/articles/easter-with-the-rhs

RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon
Friday 3 – Sunday 19 April 2026
Curious minds are encouraged to join the Easter Detectives trail at RHS Rosemoor‚ surrounded by the sights and scents of spring. Families can follow clues hidden around the garden to solve the mystery of who framed the Easter Bunny. Crack codes, uncover suspects and enjoy a springtime family adventure. During Easter weekend, Friday 3 – Monday 6 April, between 11am and 3pm the Easter Bunny will be visiting RHS Rosemoor.

Children's tickets cost £5.00 and adult entry starts from £16.85. Members and under-fives go free. A £3.00 charge applies for a special Easter Detective pack, pre booking is advised. For more information and to book tickets, please visit Easter 2026 | RHS Garden Rosemoor / RHS


Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure

This Easter and for the rest of the year, little ones can explore the five iconic RHS Gardens and enjoy the brand-new Wind in the Willows trails.

Inspired by the beloved classic children’s novel The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame and brought to life with EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustations, the trail invites families to step into the world of Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger.

Visitors can journey through the gardens' this spring to discover favourite characters hidden among plants and pathways, with sensory boxes, garden games and photo opportunities for creating special family memories.

For further information and to book, please visit: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/articles/wind-in-the-willows-garden-adventure

Easter at RHS Gardens
Beyond Easter trails and themed activities, the RHS Gardens offer the perfect spring day out. Falling at one of the most spectacular moments in the gardening calendar, Easter is an ideal time to enjoy fresh air and wide-open spaces, gather inspiration for the season ahead and explore vibrant spring displays. Visitors can also browse RHS Shops for a wide range of plants, gardening tools, homeware and seasonal gifts, taking a little garden inspiration home with them.

Garden entry is free for RHS Members and children under 5, with children aged 5–16 are just £5 each. Book online in advance to save and plan your Easter adventure: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/articles/easter-with-the-rhs

11/03/2026

10/03/2026

One year my Dad bought my mum an ironing board cover for her birthday, let me know if you can beat that in the comments!

With an add this funny, why wouldn't you book a mothers day carvery at Monkey Puzzle Restaurant ?

10/03/2026

A fantastic community Charity Skittles Shoot Out Day is taking place on 14th March from 11am to 9pm at Monkey Puzzle, North Devon Resort, Ilfracombe EX34 8PF, raising funds for the families of two local superheroes currently undergoing brain cancer treatment. ❤️

The skittles competition will run throughout the day, but this event isn’t just for the teams playing. Spectators are warmly invited to come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and help support an important local cause.

🎟 Free entry for spectators
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly event
🍔 Food available on site
🎠 Play area for children
🍹 Great drinks deals throughout the day

There will also be a huge charity raffle with some incredible prizes, including:

⭐ Watersmeet Hotel voucher
⭐ Eden Project entry pass for 4
⭐ Brend voucher
⭐ £50 Bay Café voucher
⭐ Graze & S'moree voucher
⭐ Twist of Hairr voucher
⭐ Sandy Cove High Tea for 2
⭐ Fairies Fancies Ilfracombe gift voucher
⭐ Simpsons petrol voucher £35
⭐ Paint A Pot Braunton voucher
⭐ Squires Fish & Chip Shop vouchers
⭐ Wildlife Park day pass for 2
⭐ Lets Go Superbowl Barnstaple family bowling voucher
⭐ Gift Gallery Ilfracombe prize
⭐ Bassett’s Butchers voucher
⭐ Marks & Spencer gift set
⭐ Liz Earle skincare gift set
⭐ Vallente diffuser gift set
⭐ Bobbie’s Bakes lunch for 2
⭐ Keypitts vouchers
⭐ Maddy’s Chippy dinner for 2
⭐ Lash & Lip Lounge £50 voucher
⭐ Beauty & The Beach luxury facial
⭐ Gel manicure with Sophie Merryweather
⭐ ½ price boiler service with Dan Blanchard
⭐ Twilight spa for 2 at Saunton Sands
⭐ Carvery for two at Monkey Puzzle

🎟 Raffle tickets:
£2 a strip
£5 for 3 strips

Pop along, cheer on the teams, and help raise as much as possible for two local families going through an incredibly tough time.

📍 Monkey Puzzle, North Devon Resort, Ilfracombe EX34 8PF

Please share this post to help spread the word and get as many people there as possible. Every share helps the cause. 🙏

03/03/2026

WANT A PAID WALK?

We’re hiring leaflet and magazine deliverers in Sticklepath and Landkey.

If you’re reliable, enjoy getting out and about, and don’t mind a bit of fresh air while you earn, this could be perfect. Flexible local work delivering to homes in your area.

Positions available now.

To apply:
Email kane.worsnop@boomboommedia.co.uk

Call 01271 326694

25/02/2026

Easter Detectives – Who Framed the Easter Bunny?
New family mystery trail launches at RHS Garden Rosemoor from Fri 3 - Sun 19 April

Become an Easter Detective - find the clues, solve the crime and rescue the Easter bunny - chocolate reward offered.

A delightful new interactive experience is set to bring mystery and excitement to families visiting RHS Garden Rosemoor this Easter, as the Easter Detectives trail invites visitors to step into a world of clues, suspects and seasonal fun. Enjoy the first blush of spring colour and admire the delicate blossoms in these beautiful gardens as you search for the signs which will help you solve the puzzle.

Just as the Easter Bunny was ready to deliver chocolate across the country, disaster struck – all the egg baskets were found completely empty, with only a single carrot left to be seen. While rumours spread suggesting the Easter Bunny is to blame, evidence points to a far more mischievous plot - the carrot appears deliberately placed, and eight curious characters were spotted near the scene of the crime.

The Easter Detectives trail challenges families to uncover the truth, follow the clues hidden throughout the garden, and solve the mystery of who framed the Easter Bunny. Visitors can purchase a £3 activity pack for each detective in their group and embark on a puzzle‑solving adventure designed to spark imagination and teamwork as they work to solve the mystery of the missing chocolate in time to save Easter.

The Detective packs include colouring pencils and multiple levels of activities, including colouring in and cyphers, so that there is something for all ages. There is even a simpler, secondary trail for younger investigators to enjoy – and naturally, every detective gets a chocolate prize!

This brand‑new intergenerational experience promises an engaging and entertaining day out for the whole family, combining storytelling, problem‑solving and plenty of Easter charm.

Visit during Easter weekend, Friday 3 – Monday 6 April, and you’ll even get to meet the Easter Bunny in person – you will find him in the garden between 11am and 3pm! Alternatively, visit during Natural Fibre weekend Saturday 18 – Sunday 19 April to give the crafty creatives in your family some inspiration (check out the brilliant bookable workshops).
Easter Detectives – Who framed the Easter Bunny? https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on/easter-at-rosemoor

Natural Fibre weekend 18-19 April https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/viewevent?EFID=1400&ESRC=CMS

Families can also enjoy the newly installed The Wind in The Willows Garden Adventure trail where you can explore the garden alongside Mole, Ratty and Badger (and chase after naughty Mr Toad) while learning about nature, loyalty and friendship.

Garden entry for Members and under 5s is free, and under 17s are just £5 each – special Easter Detective packs cost £3 per child. If you book your admission online in advance you can save further, so plan your Easter adventure today.

23/02/2026

Looking to start or change your career?

We are proud to be hosting the Jobs & Careers Fair 2026 in our venue this Wednesday for One Ilfracombe & Job Centre Plus, funded by Devon County Council

We are open from 10am – 2pm, helping people to discover exciting job prospects, find out what free courses are available in Ilfracombe and build valuable networks to shape their futures.

Employers here include: Action for Children, Watermouth Castle, Ministry of Defense, Savona, North Devon Council, TDK, Harvest Green Developments, North Devon Hospice, North Devon Resort - and so many more!
A free bus is available for those who don’t have transport – please see the One Ilfracombe page for more details.

18/02/2026

We love shouting about North Devon businesses and we must say we couldn't believe that more of you hadn't heard about Braddicks the Furnishers at Stanley House!

10/02/2026

Have you ever tried Sushi Making? Visit Monkey Puzzle Restaurant for a relaxed, hands-on session led by their chef where you’ll learn to create fresh, delicious sushi from scratch. Roll, taste, and enjoy the experience together.

£25 per couple
14 February | 14:30–16:00

Spaces are limited.
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/monkeypuzzleihp/1994127

Celebrate something a little different this Valentine’s weekend at Monkey Puzzle, a chance to slow down, try something new, and share meaningful moments together.

One of our highlights is the Sushi Making Workshop, a relaxed, hands-on session led by our chef where you’ll learn to create fresh, delicious sushi from scratch. Roll, taste, and enjoy the experience together, then take the recipes home so you can recreate it whenever the mood strikes. A fun, interactive way to connect and make something special side by side.

£25 per couple
14 February | 14:30–16:00

There are plenty more ways to shape your perfect weekend too:

Special Valentine’s Night Dinner – £35 per person
Saffron Risotto with Pan-Fried Scallops, Marry Me Chicken, and indulgent desserts like Passionfruit Tart or rich Chocolate Fondant
Full menu:https://monkeypuzzlerestaurant.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Valentines-Menu-1.pdf

Couple’s Photography Shoot – £70
Beach, woodland or ‘In The Box’ collage options

Sunday Carvery for Two – £14.95 per person

Spaces are limited across all events. Book now to plan your Valentine’s weekend with us:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/monkeypuzzleihp/1994127