Torquay weather and temp in Fahr.

MAIDENCOMBE.NET AUTHOR Jim Campbell

MAIDENCOMBE.NET AUTHOR Jim Campbell
Maidencombe resident since 1960. Local historian and author of the 'Coves of Maidencombe'.
Copyright © 2013 . All Rights Reserved.
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TIDES

KESTREL CALLING

BUZZARD IN MY GARDEN

RESERVE

NST

The bowl of the coombe as seen from Sladnor heights

The bowl of the coombe as seen from Sladnor heights

Maidencombe point

Maidencombe point
as seen above Maidencombe cove.

Blog Archive

Thursday, November 28, 2013

ROM & REMY

The two rescued 'fox kittens' Remy (top centre) and Rom (right) with a Christmas mushroom light.

ROM AND SOCRUISE

A very patient So Cruise tolerates Rom (look closely above his head) one of the two rescued 'fox kittens'.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

FIELD NAMES OF MAIDENCOMBE: 'TOM BOX'

The start of a new series of Maidencombe history and information - the Field Names of Maidencombe.  It'll give me and So Cruise a purpose over the next few weeks as we brave the winter elements. 
This is the first field name video diary of 'Tom Box' and a tantalizing glimpse of bygone decades here in Maidencombe.  The 'Finger' field or 'Box' field as I knew it, turns out to have been named after Tom Box, one of the residents who had an allotment here in the forties and fifties.
Grateful thanks to Alan and Bob Hunt for retrieval of this field name and supporting history.

Much information was gleaned from a meeting on November 13th where Alan Hunt and his brother Bob exchanged knowledge with Jim Campbell and his reservoir of knowledge gained from Captain Bill, Harry Nickels and Hiley Edwards (senior).

Friday, November 22, 2013

MUM HOLDS THE MEDAL

Mum proudly displays the Arctic Star medal awarded to my late father for his service in the Merchant Navy (and Royal Navy) for the Russian Convoy sailings in the last war. 

A MOST SPECIAL DAY

I've just been to the post box to retrieve the mail and was surprised to find a package addressed to my dear old Mum.  As far as I knew, she hadn't sent off for anything and it didn't appear to be from one of her many animal supported charities. 
Mum hasn't been well lately and to cheer her up I had been planning to put up the Christmas tree this Saturday as she so loves the festive season.
I took her a cup of tea in bed and gave her the parcel.  A few moments later there was a cry from the bedroom which I heard in the kitchen.
I rushed in to discover that my late father's Arctic Convoy medal had finally arrived!  Mum was terribly excited and silly old fool that I am, I went all misty. 
A photo and accompanying story to follow.  A most special day here in Maidencombe.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

THE DANGER OF GANTRY ISLAND

Traffic exiting Brim Hill onto the Teignmouth Road are severely hampered by the gantry signage constructed around the lamp post.  A narrow window of view exists which is insufficient for safety of motorists.  At times, this tiny 'window' is blocked off by illegal advertising boards which completely block the view of oncoming traffic from Shaldon.  Highways will be reviewing the situation in the light of complaints from residents. 
The repeater 30 MPH sign to the right of the gantry has served its purpose but now traffic are 'wise' to the sign and do not slow down. 
Repositioning of the signage to the village on the right and Stokeinteignhead to the left may be desirable.  In any event, the notorious 'Gantry Island' is considered an eyesore by many residents.

Sunday, November 17, 2013

FEROX DETENTION UPDATE

My thanks to 'Grim Snapper' for this update on the detention of the Ferox (detained since October 24th in Poole Harbour). Rather than leave a comment on a post (I agree, it's very difficult) please contact me on my email address at:  preconcruiser@aol.com

Tug Ferox – information is now available on the MCA website giving details of the 20 deficiencies found at her PSC Inspection including the 8 grounds for detention.

http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/mcga07-home/newsandpublications/press-releases.htm?id=8F8AD74EBE1E91F1&m=11&y=2013

If and when she is released from detention her name will be removed from the list of current detentions at the Paris MoU on Port State Control website.

https://www.parismou.org/detentions-banning/current-detentions

You can also see details of her previous two detentions by using the Inspection Search facility on the same website.

Friday, November 15, 2013

HMS SEVERN IN BABBACOMBE BAY

Just identified the dazzling light display of this vessel I saw a few minutes ago out on my Night Patrol.  It's HMS Severn (P282) currently anchored a kilometre off Oddicombe Beach in Babbacombe Bay and about two kms from Maidencombe.  She is an offshore patrol vessel of the Royal Navy whose  primary role is fishery protection.  She has a complement of 30 as well as armed Royal Marines for boarding vessels.

Pleased and quite surprised that my Canon Powershot SX40 is now operational once more (fingers crossed) after failing a few days ago with the PC equivalent of the 'blue screen of death'  - the dreaded  ' Lens error Will shut down automatically Restart camera' from which there is little hope of survival.  It may have helped that it was pulled from a shelf by one of the kittens and fell onto my cork-tiled floor!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

'FOX' KITTENS OK


Monday, November 11, 2013

THE GRAVEYARD OF TOWS

The More convoy, subject of great interest on the shipping forums, is now about 110 kms south of Lands End making 4 knots on a heading of 230 degrees.  Martin has kindly given me the current wave heights (crucial for tows) from the Celtic Sea Buoy and it appears that the convoy is being subjected to  wave heights well over 2 metres.

The Novara, smallest of the two vessels, is able to cope with wave heights up to 1.7 metres (according to information received).
Worse is to come late Wednesday with wave heights approaching 4 metres in the Celtic Sea.

The good news for the More crew is that they will have exited the Celtic Sea by then but the bad news is that they will then be within the feared Bay of Biscay - the 'Graveyard of Tows'.
The tiny convoy will have to keep well clear of the coast to avoid the effects of the steep Atlantic swell, known as the Continental Shelf effect.

PROGRESS OF THE MORE CONVOY

Eighteen hours after departing their anchorage off Maidencombe, the More convoy is now about 60 kms south east of Lands End  and about to leave the English Channel for the French coast.
On the Scheepvaart  (shipping) Forum, there is amazement that this convoy is operating at this time of year with these types of vessels.  One suggestion of the loading operation that took place on Saturday is that some sort of navigation lighting system was being put in place.  As I mentioned, there was no lighting at all on the Novara. In any event, the More convoy is potentially on a perilous venture to its African destination, proceeding at a snail's pace of 3 or 4 knots.  To give you an idea of that rate of progress, you could comfortably keep up on foot - if the route was on land.

 

Sunday, November 10, 2013

MORE CONVOY EN ROUTE TO DAKAR

Just after 5:30am, the More convoy left its mooring off Maidencombe.  It is currently about 30 miles south of Plymouth, proceeding at 4.4 knots on a heading of 229 degrees.

Saturday, November 09, 2013

LOADING OPERATION ON THE NOVARA?

By the way, shot Saturday afternoon, not Sunday.  Look closely and you can see crew members on the Novara  directly above the small vessel alongside.

LOADING OPERATION ON THE NOVARA?

Intrigued to see a small tender/vessel alongside the Novara early this afternoon.  Under higher magnification, the vertical orange canister shaped containers appear to be either being loaded or unloaded from the Novara.  Video clip to follow and perhaps you Dutch and German experts out there can tell me what's happening here.

MORE CONVOY LIGHTING ARRANGEMENTS

I saw why there were only two sets of navigation lights showing last night on the More convoy.  The More itself is conspicuously lit with vertical mast yellow lights but the Novara, in tow has no lights at all and disappears at night.  To overcome this, the Bominflot 5 is anchored bow leading to the Novara's stern.  There appears to be only port and starboard lights at the rear of the Bominflot 5, so the illusion is that the anchored vessels appear to be one very long vessel (2 X 85 metres for the tankers. 
Weather is ideal for mooring, a very light offshore easterly breeze and calm waters.  So far, so good, for the More convoy enterprise - whatever that may be.

Friday, November 08, 2013

CLEARER VIEW OF THE MORE CONVOY

Taken just before 1600 hrs local time Friday November 8th with my now semi-operational Canon Powershot SX40.  Better detailing of vessels here.

MORE CONVOY VESSELS

Many thanks to Martin for supplying details of the two inland tankers in the More convoy enabling identification. 
So it's the Novara under tow and the Bominflot 5 is accompanying under its own 'steam'. 


MORE CONVOY REVEALS ITSELF OFF MAIDENCOMBE

Reminiscent of the scene from The Longest Day (1962) when the Allied Invasion Fleet came into focus at dawn on June 6th 1944, the More convoy emerged briefly from a passing squall this morning.  It now appears that (as was the case with the Ferox convoy) the More has one inland tanker under tow whilst the other tanker is able to make way unassisted.  On closer inspection of the More, I can see that this was the vessel with the strange 'Christmas tree' like lighting configuration seen last night.  One of the tankers had no lighting last night - presumably the one under tow.

Thursday, November 07, 2013

MORE ANCHORED

All stop for the More convoy.  Vessels are now anchored less than 2 miles offshore.  Only two vessels showing lights though I know there is another vessel there with no AIS.  Have to wait for daybreak as my Canon has packed in with zoom on low light.

MORE UPDATE

Just been observing the approach of the More convoy through binoculars. The MTS Vector has passed by at close proximity en route for Brixham - no connection.  Two vessels now clearly lit up. One showing port starboard lights and another looking like some sort of rig, strange.  Even stranger, is a vessel approaching them from the south with no AIS.

MTS VECTOR

Just noticed that another tug, MTS Vector is on an intercept course with the More from the north.  Her destination is Brixham so it may be a coincidence.  Popping up the road to observe.

MORE CONVOY CLOSING ON MAIDENCOMBE

Now about 10 kms off Maidencombe and slowing to 3.3 knots. I cannot make out any navigation lights through binoculars.  Even small fishing boats clearly illuminated.

FIRST SIGHTING OF THE MORE CONVOY


MORE CONVOY CLOSING IN


MORE CONVOY UNDER WAY

The More and presumably the two tows have left their shelter in Weymouth Bay and are about to enter Lyme Bay. Current speed and track 3.7 knots 274 degrees.  Thanks Martin.

Tuesday, November 05, 2013

BREAKING NEWS: TUG FEROX DETAINED BY THE MARITIME & COASTGUARD AGENCY IN POOLE

I am indebted to the 'Grim Snapper' for releasing the following information.  I stress that the detention of the Ferox has not, as yet, been verified by the MCA.  The photo of the Rix Harrier confirms my video comments on the apparent unseaworthiness of the vessel.  The Grim Snapper's text is in bold italics:


The tug Ferox has been detained by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency according to comments on the Poole Harbour Commissioners Facebook page. It is also noted as being detained in this picture from the news pages of the Solent Shipping website. 





Ferox 'detained' in Poole November 2nd  


Ferox's tows in Poole: Valetta (left) and Rix Harrier
Grim Snapper also comments that the Ferox was only released from detention in the Dutch port of Harlingen on the 19th September 2013 having been detained for 21 days for 24 deficiencies to her magnetic compass, charts and nautical publications.

MORE OPERATION NOW IN WEYMOUTH BAY

Currently moored about 4 kms from Weymouth Harbour.  Her intentions unknown.  My key (and most reliable) source has cited  upcoming wind change of direction for her move across the English Channel, which must have incurred extensive fuel costs.  My Dutch source stresses the importance of sea state and weather  for the towing of these vessels in open sea as the former inland waterway vessels are palpably unsuited to even moderate swell and wind conditions.  Many thanks, Martin.

MORE LATEST

The More is now heading in towards Weymouth Bay.

MORE CONVOY UNDER WAY

My apologies for lack of posts, but my health has been suffering for the past few days now.  I took a look at the More convoy earlier today which had been sheltering east of the Cherbourg peninsula for over a fortnight and see that it is now under way.  It is currently making 6.9 knots on a heading of 292 degrees.  At first I thought the group was making for Poole where the Ferox group is at present, but it now appears to be veering west towards either Weymouth or Lyme Bay.  Have you any intelligence on this Martin?

BLOG CONTENT

BLOG CONTENT
The twinning of Maidencombe with Comeinbemad reflects the light-hearted nature of this gentle blog. The articles posted are written by the author alone and have no connection with any official body or association.

SLADNOR PARK CHALETS

SLADNOR PARK CHALETS
Eerily shrouded in mist, two of the lower chalets of Sladnor Park.

BURNING OF THE BAMBOO MAN JUNE 5 2016

AN ODE TO SLADNOR PARK

(sung to the tune of 'Home on the Range')

Oh give me a park where the badgers can roam
Where the deer and the wildlife reside
There never is heard the developer's word
To disturb where the denizens abide

Oh give me a park where the diggers are banned
And the architect can't earn his fee
Where the noise of the town
Is a far distant sound
And conservation is all it can be

For when houses are built
The council covered in guilt
And all the animals forlorn
Now the only sounds to be heard
Are vehicles absurd
And the cries of a motherless fawn

Jim Campbell

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OUR MAIN LINK - CLICK ON IMAGE TO REDIRECT

OUR MAIN LINK - CLICK ON IMAGE TO REDIRECT
THE ENDANGERED CIRL BUNTING - SYMBOL OF THE MAIDENCOMBE COMMUNITY GROUP

PUTTING MAIDENCOMBE ON THE MAP

PUTTING MAIDENCOMBE ON THE MAP
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MOST VIEWED POST ON THIS SITE

MOST VIEWED POST ON THIS SITE
The old Toll House on the west side of the A379 Teignmouth Road, stands at the junction of Claddon Lane with the A379 about 50 yards from Ridge Road and the former position of the black and white Solomons Post sign (see side panel right). This early photo shows the open porch (lower left) - now blocked off and the blanked out toll-board recess (top right). Under the angled roof on the right, there is a small shop and working post office. The building probably dates from 1827 when the new road was built. Originally named Solomon's Post Gate when there was a gate across the road for the toll collector to open upon payment.

RAMBLING GROUP WRITE-UP OF WATCOMBE TO MAIDENCOMBE WALK

Found this interesting little site with a rambling group's write up of walks. CLICK HERE FOR MAIDENCOMBE WALK ARTICLE

MAIDENCOMBER SLADNOR VIDEO AND WRITE-UP

YOUR LOCAL WEB APPROVES DREAMINCOMBES

YOUR LOCAL WEB APPROVES DREAMINCOMBES
After scrutiny by a panel, this site has been added as a reputable source of information about Maidencombe.

ARCHIVE: MAIDENCOMBE TIMELINE EVENING AT THE THATCHED TAVERN

The first Timeline evening took place Wednesday evening March 20th at the Thatched Tavern. Local lad Ziggy Austin's brainchild, it was an endeavour to map out the history of Maidencombe on a ten metre paper scroll. The initiative was first mooted and widely supported on Ziggy's Maidencombe Residents Facebook page. Residents and non residents were asked if they could research local history on the area and bring along any material such as postcards or text to place on the scroll.
The first evening was well attended and as can be seen in the photos on the left, a great deal was achieved.
Longest residing villager, Alan Hunt attended to add his considerable knowledge and was supported by his 'young' student Jim Campbell with a mere 53 years of residence under his belt.
The pub opened up the restaurant area for the occasion and were most generous in providing sandwiches for the studious throng.


SOLOMONS POST AT THE JUNCTION OF TEIGNMOUTH ROAD & RIDGE ROAD

SOLOMONS POST AT THE JUNCTION OF TEIGNMOUTH ROAD & RIDGE ROAD
No known images of this iconic Maidencombe landmark exist. Post war and up to the late 1960's, sign posts were wooden posts painted black and white. This is a close reconstruction of the sign where buses would actually pull in to for passengers to alight or board.

A UNIQUE VIDEO

A video of one of my foxes being treated for Sarcoptic mange - taking the medication on the food by hand. She recovered completely and my thanks go out to the Derbyshire Fox Rescue who supplied the medication.

DRAMATIC EROSION OF THE SOUTHWEST COASTAL FOOTPATH

Worth a look as Maidencombe's section of the SWCP is also very much under threat.

From myfoxesandbadgers site

ARCHIVE: DANGEROUS STATE OF CLIFF FACE

ARCHIVE: DANGEROUS STATE OF CLIFF FACE
Photo taken from the beach cafe above Maidencombe cove and the arrows indicate the cause for concern. A minor land slip has already taken place and the Environment Agency had a look Christmas eve in case the cove had to be closed.

ARCHIVE: Entrance to Crossways at Maidencombe Cross

ARCHIVE: Entrance to Crossways at Maidencombe Cross
After a catalogue of antisocial behaviour displayed by motorists illegally entering a private area, the police recommended that the entrance be made narrower. A sad indictment of society.

THE FOLLY AT SLADNOR PARK

THE FOLLY AT SLADNOR PARK
Constructed between 1830-1833 by Mrs Groves who inhabited Sladnor Manor House at the time. The hexagonal tower and accompanying arched outbuilding were built of Devon red sandstone. A projecting castellated cornice crowned the gothic apertures and single faux crossbow slit at ground level. A most interesting aspect of the folly is the purpose-built pony and trap winding carriage-way which Mrs Groves carved through the north western woods of the estate to facilitate her passage to and from the folly. The structure is now in poor condition and it is earnestly hoped that Richmond Villages, the new owners of Sladnor, will be able to make safe the folly to enable residents to enjoy in years to come.

FEATURES OF MAIDENCOMBE

Some of the features we will be mentioning:

ROCK HOUSE GAZEBO
THE CASCADE
THE IRON STILE
THE CASTELLATED FOLLY
THE BAT RETREAT
THE PUMP HOUSE
THE PILL BOX
THE 190 OAK
SMUGGLER'S LANE

GRADE 2 LISTED ROCK HOUSE GAZEBO

GRADE 2 LISTED ROCK HOUSE GAZEBO
Circa 1850. Constructed of Devon red sandstone with unfortunately, as is the case with the Sladnor Folly, some cement patching. Sited at the eastern end of the garden, overlooking the sea. A single storey structure with faux castellated parapet. It has a one-window front incorporating a gabled porch on the front to left with a segmental headed and arched doorway. There is a matching arched window to the right. Reportedly, the structure had a flight of external steps for access to the flat roof with commanding views of Lyme Bay. The interior is clay-tiled laid.