Topsham Leisure Directory

Introduction

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Topsham is rich in opportunities to fill your leisure time with activities that cater for all ages and interests.

The Learning and Leisure sub-group of the Topsham Community Association asked all the known clubs and associations in Topsham for up-to-date details of their activities. This directory is the result of that request, plus information given to us at and after the Community Plan Exhibition.

We have tried to make this directory easy to use. You will find activities listed under the most appropriate heading but, where an entry could have been made in more than one category, we have made a cross reference.

If your club or association details are incorrect or not shown, please contact us (see 24: Contacts page).

24. Acknowledgements / Contact

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Learning & Leisure Directory / Acknowledgements
This Directory has been compiled by members of the Learning and Leisure sub-group of the Topsham Community Association. The information within is as accurate as we have been able to confirm, but we cannot hold any legal responsibility for errors.

If you know of any inaccuracy, other relevant activity that should be included or wish to update any of the entries please send an e-mail to:
eliot.wright@btinternet.com

We will endeavour to update entries on the Topsham website: http://www.topsham.org

Reports of the activities of many of the clubs and societies in Topsham are regularly included in Estuary, the monthly community magazine published by St. Margaret's Church and widely available in the town.

Large print copies of this Directory are available at Topsham Library and the Estuary League of Friends charity shop. If you need further assistance with accessing the information please phone 01392 876898 or 01392 876487

Members of the Learning and Leisure Group:
Deborah Booth
Geoffrey Brace
Maggie Butt
Trevor Day
Suzanne Frost
Eliot Wright

Our thanks to them for the time given to complete this Directory and to Trevor Rogers for the photographs and design of the cover. Funding for this publication has been provided by Devon County Council through Councillor Andrew Leadbetter and a local charity.

23. Further Information

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Topsham town website: http://www.topsham.org

Useful contacts

Topsham Museum 01392 873244
Topsham Library 01392 874955
Estuary Magazine 01392 876814
Neighbourhood Policing Team 01392 874630
Holman Way Surgery 01392 873536
e-mail: topshamadmin@nhs.net
Website: www.topshamsurgery.gpsurgery.net

Chapel Platt Surgery 01392 875777
e-mail: chapelplatt@nhs.net

Health Visitor Team 01392 426158

Topsham Ferries
Mike Stevens 07801203338
Turf Lock Inn 01392 833128
Stuart Line Cruises01395 222144

Exeter Central Library
General 01392 384200
Music and Drama 01392 384217

Exeter City Council
Entertainment licences 01392 265543
Youth and Community:
Grants 01392 265107
Festivals 01392 265205

Exeter College
Adult and Community Education 01392 205232

Devon County Council
Music Service 01392 385600
Arts Funding 01392 384315
Adult and Community Learning 01392 385725
Youth Service 01392 382049

University of Exeter Library 01392 2638667

22. Youth Activities

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The Topsham School 'Twiglets' After School Club
For The Topsham School children only.
Open from 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm every term-time day at the school. From 4 to 12 years.
Contact: Sharon Wannell. Tel: 01392 874498
e-mail: admin@topsham.devon.sch.uk

1st Topsham Rainbows
Meet weekly for fun, games, crafts and trips.
Leading into Brownies. Meet in Matthews Hall Council Chamber on Wednesdays 6.30 pm to
7.30 pm. Age range: 5 to 7 years
Weekly subs and an annual insurance fee.
Early registering on the waiting list is recommended.
Contact: Miss Joanne Gallichan 07739514605

1st Topsham Brownies
Part of Girl Guiding U.K. movement incorporating Rainbows, Brownies and Guides. Meetings are held weekly in term time, in the Council Chamber at Matthews Hall between 5.30 pm and 7.00 pm.
Age range: 7 to 10 year old girls.
£10 joining fee with a weekly charge of £1.25.
Annual fee £15 for insurances.
Contact: Beci Farley. Tel: 01392 430544
e-mail: icle_miss_innocent@hotmail.com

1st Topsham Beaver Scouts
To encourage intellectual, physical, social and spiritual development in both boys and girls aged between 6 and 8 years.
Meetings are held weekly on Wednesday evenings between 6.30 pm. and 7.30 pm in the Scout Hut, Ferry Road.
Enquire for cost of annual subscription.
Contact: Peter Tapp. Tel: 01392 879712
e-mail: topshambeavers@hotmail.co.uk

1st Topsham Cub Scouts
Progression from Beaver Scouts for boys and girls aged 8 to 10 years old.
Meet weekly on Tuesdays at the Scout Hut, Ferry Road from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm.
Visitors and new members welcome.
Contact: David McKenzie. Tel: 01392 206230

1st Topsham Sea Scouts
Progression from Cub Scouts for young people 10 to 14 years old, both male and female.
Meet weekly on Mondays at the Scout Hut, Ferry Road from 7.00 pm. to 9.00 pm.
Visitors and new members welcome.
Activities include kayaking, canoeing, rowing,
sailing and power boating.
All scouting in accordance with the Scout
Association policy, organisation and rules.
Contact: Group Scout Leader Sarah Sutton. Tel: 07810751913

Topsham Youth Club
Friendly youth group with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, sports and trips run by Devon County Council Youth Service.
Meetings are held weekly on Wednesdays at the Dorothy Holman Youth Centre from
6.00 pm to 9.00 pm. Charge of 50p per session.
Contact: Youth Leader Tel: 01392 662227

The Eastside Project
The Eastside Project offers the Duke of Edinburgh Award to young people from 14 to 25 years. The programme includes Skills, Physical Activities, Volunteering and Expeditions
Contact: Neighbourhood Police Team at
Matthews Hall Tel: 01392 874630

Topsham Summer Youth Activities
An opportunity for local young people aged 10 to 16 years to participate in and learn new sporting and creative skills during the school summer holidays. Many of these activities become fully booked very quickly.
To avoid disappointment, we advise those wanting to participate in any of the schemes to make bookings as soon as details of the programme are available, usually at the beginning of July

Activities include:
Badminton / Baseball
Canoeing / Clay work
Cricket / Dry slope skiing
Fencing / Mosaic making
Rock school / Sailing
Taiko drumming / Tennis
Water polo

Contact: Margaret Butt
Tel: 01392 873050

21. Women's Groups

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Estuary Circle
An informal social group for ladies of any age to promote friendship and contribute to several charities.
Meet on second and fourth Tuesdays of each
month, from 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm at Nelson Close
Community Centre.
Second Tuesday: speaker or general discussion with refreshments.
Fourth Tuesday: social afternoon with interest table, raffle, cards, sales table, etc.
Items produced to support Christian Response in Eastern Europe.
Subscription: £10 p.a. and £1 each session.
Contact: Barbara McCardle. Tel: 01392 670243

Topsham Ladies' Club
This group has been in existence for a number
of years and meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the Nelson Close Community Centre at 7.15 pm.
Annual membership fee: £15
Contact: Linda Boysey Tel: 01392 874070

20. Voluntary Groups

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Age Concern Exeter
Age Concern Exeter has many community services and groups which are available and accessible for anyone over the age of 50 years. Each service has a co-ordinator who will talk with you about your individual needs.
Contact: Corinne Bailey Tel: 01392 202092
e-mail: reception@ageconcernexeter.org.uk
Website: www.ageconcernexeter.org.uk/

Estuary League of Friends
Services for the communities of Topsham, Countess Wear, Clyst St. George, Clyst St. Mary, Ebford and Exton. These include day centre, lunch club (hot two course lunch, twice a week), transport (doctor, hospital, clinic, hairdresser, etc.), nailcutting, befriending, shopping trips, home suppport, bereavement, trips and carers. Also memory cafe, benefit form-filling, house clearances, information service and charity shops.
Contact: Rachel Gilpin Tel: 01392 879009
e-mail: rachel.estuary@virgin.net
Website: http://www.estuary-league-of-friends.co.uk/

Volunteering
Have you thought about giving some of your time to help others within the community? Lots of people do so already which is why there are so many activities in Topsham. However, there is always a need for more people to help and some possibilities are listed below:

Working as a volunteer in one of the charity shops: serving customers, sorting donated goods and books. Call in at the Devon Air Ambulance, Estuary League of Friends or Hospiscare shops to see how you can help.

Driving people to hospital or elsewhere for appointments or acting as a companion to someone who is living alone and might need help with shopping. Contact Estuary League of Friends.

Help with the organisation and running of one of the clubs or societies listed in the Directory. This might include minuting meetings, fundraising, assisting with refreshments, etc. Specifically, both the Swimming Pool and Topsham museum are always grateful for more volunteers (see sections 5 and 17).

Contacts:

Devon Air Ambulance 01392 879285

Estuary League of Friends 01392 879275

Hospiscare

Volunteer

Exeter

volunteercentre@exetercvs.org.uk

19. Venues

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Available for hiring

Dorothy Holman Youth Centre
Ferry Road, Topsham, EX3 0JW
Large room suitable for parties and activities, adjoining the Recreation Ground, plus a second carpeted room with easy chairs and a small kitchen.
Disabled access/toilet.
Contact for bookings, information on licences and charges: Mrs. Sylvia Brace Tel 01392 877810

Drakes
14 Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HF
Upstairs room available for social events.
Contact Tel: 011392 875172
Website: http://www.drakesoftopsham.co.uk/

Football Club
Topsham Town AFC, Exeter Road, Topsham EX3 0LY
Room suitable for social events.
Contact Tel: 01392 873678

Malt House, Globe Hotel
34 Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HF
Suitable for meetings, seminars, social events. Exhibition space 74 sq. m. Disabled access/toilet. Refreshments, delegate packages and audio visual equipment available.
Contact for more information and booking:
Liz Hodges. Tel: 01392 873471
e-mail: sales@globehotel.com
Website: http://www.globehotel.com/

Matthews Hall
Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HF
Topsham's town hall has completed its extensive renovation and
currently comprises: main hall (180m2, plus stage) smaller Council Chamber on first floor with use of kitchen and projection room providing audiovisual services in the main hall.
Ther is a café bar in entrance area, disabled toilet, ramp to entrance area and chair lift to Council Chamber.
All facilities for hire.
Contact: Mrs. Veronica Coe. Tel: 01392 876865
There is a community market every Saturday. Enquries for hring a table, contact Rita Williams Tel: 01392 873616
The cafe is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings.
See also Matthews Hall web page

Rugby Club
Topsham Rugby Football Club, Exeter Road,
Topsham, EX3 0LY
Function room with bar and kitchen.
Full music and entertainment licence. Available daytime and evening (avoiding matches).
Normal evening charge: £100 (£70 members), daytime charges negotiable.
Disabled access.
Contact: Dave and Sue Tanner Tel: 07867840057

St. Margaret's Church Rooms
Church Path, Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HX
A variety of rooms and church social area, both with kitchens.
Disabled access/toilet.
Contact for bookings, information on licences and charges: mobile 07531063043

St. Nicholas Methodist Church
Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HE
Small hall, committee room, use of kitchen.
Disabled access to some rooms/toilet.
Charges per hour:
Church: with heating £10
Without heating £8.50
Church hall £7
Use of kitchen £1.50 per session
For information and bookings
Contact: Mrs Wanda Face. Tel:01392 877899

Topsham Swimming Pool Association
See Sport, section 17.

The Topsham School
For details of availability please contact the school by e-mail, admin@topsham.devon.sch.uk
FOA Claire Brown, Headteacher

18. Trade & Business Associations

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Topsham Business Forum
The Forum aims to increase the town's overall business prosperity whilst developing the assets of the community and maintaining the charm and history of Topsham.
The TBF will endeavour to support the wider Topsham community and its clubs, associations and societies. Task teams will be created to facilitate this support.
Currently the TBF has produced a Business Directory and its own website which provides useful information on the businesses in Topsham.
Ongoing development will mean that all businesses operating in the postcode area EX3 will be listed and maintained on the website.
User-friendly communication links will be set up by e-mail and the website to ensure that all are kept informed on key issues.
Contact: Alan Wills c/o Remedies Laser Skin and Health Clinic
30 High Street, Topsham Tel: 01392 685030
e-mail: alan@remedies.eclipse.co.uk
Website:

17. Sport

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Clyst Vale Shotokan Karate Club
Friendly, family oriented Karate Club. Meet at The Stable Club, Friends Provident Insurance Building, Clyst St. Mary on Tuesdays 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm and on Thursdays at Clyst St. Mary Village Hall 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm.
Age range 6 to 60+ years.
Fees: adults £3.50 per session, under 16 or unwaged £2.50 per session. Family rates
available.
Visitors welcome.
Contact: Marion/Chris May. Tel: 01392 259545

Flaming Fist Kenpo
Self defence system of martial arts, suitable for anyone, regardless of age or gender. Adults train once a week on Fridays at Countess Wear School between 8.00 pm and 9.00 pm. Children between 7.00 pm and 8.00 pm.
Age range: children 5 to13 years. Adults 13 years upwards.
Fees: First lesson is free. Single lesson: adults £4.50, children £3.50. Visitors welcome.
Contact: Matt Snell Tel: 01392 253622 (evenings)
Website: http://www.flamingfistkenpo.org.uk/

Topsham Badminton Club
A friendly club for various abilities, but no tuition provided. Mainly mixed doubles. The club plays in Matthews Hall on Wednesday evenings
7.30 pm to 10.30 pm and Friday mornings
9.30 am to 12.30 pm. Age range 16+
Membership fee: £55 per annum.
Guests are welcome.
Contact: Richard Holland Tel: 01392 875269
e-mail: richardoftopsham@talktalk.net

Topsham Bowling Club
The club was founded in 1928 and has expanded and improved to become one of the premier clubs in Devon. Coaching available.
Social activities include a bridge section and skittle league. (See Leisure Activities, section 10).
Annual subscription: Full (bowling) £90
Social £16. Visitors welcome.
Contact: David Tucker Tel: 01392 873168
e-mail: tucker-david3@sky.com

Topsham Football Club
First and second teams. Training sessions:
9 years+ Saturday 9.30 am.
17 years+ Tuesday 7 pm.
Clubhouse: darts, light refreshments, licensed bar.
Subscription: 18 years+ £10. Famil membership £15. Senior citizens £5.
Contact: Clubhouse Tel: 01392 873678

Topsham Rugby Club
Two senior rugby teams:
First team: Devon North East One.
Second team: North East Merit Table League.
Fitness training on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings with team training on Wednesday evenings.
The season runs from September to April with games on most Saturdays.
Contact: Ron Murray Tel: 01392 873484
Junior teams for under 7 to under 14 years (mixed until 12 years) with training and games on Sunday from 10.30 am to 12 noon.
Contact: John and Gena Ward Tel 01395 233586.
Website: http://www.topshamrugby.co.uk/

Topsham St. James Cricket Club
Topsham's community cricket club offers competitive and social cricket for all standards of men, ladies and children from the age of 7-15 years. Adult matches are played on Saturdays and Sundays from May to September on the Bonfire Field of Topsham Rugby Club, with Colts having their matches on a variety of evenings and at weekends throughout school term-time.
During the summer, training nights are held on Wednesday (ladies), Thursday (men) and Friday (U8 - U15s). There is also a large programme of social events throughout the year.
Visitors are very welcome.
Contact: Sheila Harding Tel: 01392 876481
e-mail: sheila@courtfield4.co.uk
Website: http://www.topshamstjames.play-cricket.com/

Topsham Sailing Club
TSC is a club that promotes the sport of sailing in dinghies, dayboats and cruising yachts. Up to 4 races a week during the season, depending on tides.
Annual subscription: £45 adult £18 cadet.
Venue: Hawkins Quay, Topsham. Tel: 01392 877524
Contacts: Neal Ricketts Tel: 01392 874786
Philip Chesterfield Tel: 01392 875169
Website: http://www.topsham-sc.org.uk/

Topsham Swimming Pool Association
The association runs and manages the Topsham Swimming pool which is open from mid May to mid September. It is supported by volunteers who are essential to keep the pool running.
Contact: Cyril Harrison Tel: 01392 874637
Opening times:
Nutters' Club: 6.00 am to 8.30 am every day.

All ages: every day from 10.00 am to 12 noon,
12.30 pm to 2.30 pm, 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm. In addition: 5.30 pm to 7.00 pm on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and 5.15 pm to 6.40 pm on Tuesday and Thursday.
Adults only: 7.30 pm to 9.00 pm Wednesday and Friday.

For hiring the pool, contact: Sharon Wannell
Tel: 01392 877454.
Available times: 9.00 pm to 10.00 pm Monday to Sunday (7.30 pm to 10.00 pm Saturday)
Website: http://www.topshampool.com/

Topsham Tennis Club
An informal club and all standards of play are welcome.
Times of play are: Mondays and Wednesdays
from 6.15 pm onwards.
New players ae always welcome and some coaching is available.
Venue: the courts are situated behind the swimming pool.
Contact: Gill Williams Tel: 07773892347

Women's Running Network: Topsham Group
Part of a national group, the Network welcomes women of any level of fitness with programmes designed to cater for beginners.
Runs start at The Lighter Pub on the quay at 6.30 pm on Tuesdays, all the year round.
Annual fee of £20 plus £1 per run.
Contact : Gill Thorne 01392 874698

16. Social Clubs

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Globefields
A variety of activities including quizzes, videos and refreshments. Meetings are weekly on Tuesday afternoons at the Globefields Community Centre.
All welcome.
Contact: John Menday Tel: 07714447573

Nelson Close Bingo
Meetings are on Thursday afternoons at the Nelson Close Community Centre. All are welcome.
Contact: John Menday Tel: 07714447573

Trefoil Guild
A social group open to anyone over the age of 18 years who has been a member of GirlguidingUK or the Scout Association. A variety of activities are organised, including talks and trips in the summer. Monthly meetings on Wednesdays between
3.00 pm and 5.00 pm in the social room of the Fire Station.
Visitors and new members welcome.
Contact: Winnie Charlton Tel 01392 873312

Weightwatchers
See Keep Fit, section 9

14. Nature

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Topsham Birdwatching and Naturalist Society
The club holds meetings on the second Friday
of the month in the Matthews Hall at 7.30 pm. There is a variety
of guest speakers covering a wide range of wildlife topics.
Also held are a number of field trips each year and an annual high profile open lecture.
Visitors are welcome.
Annual fee: individual £7; family £12;
visitors £3.
Contact: Keith Chester Tel: 01392 877817
e-mail: tbnsociety@hotmail.com
Website: topshambns.blogspot.com/

15. Political Associations

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Conservative Club
Open Monday to Friday 7.30 pm to 11.00 pm.
Saturday 12 noon to 3.00 pm and 7.30 pm to 11.00 pm.
Sunday 12 noon to 4.00 pm.
Resident Steward: Jilly Cotter Tel: 01392 874413
Pool and snooker tables, team matches, ladies' darts. Special events arranged.
Visitors welcome.
Membership fee: £10 per annum.
Contact: Mrs. Edna Norton Tel: 01392 874917

Labour Party
Activities include social and political campaigning, political education and discussion, community involvement and advice.
Contact: Dororthy Parker/Eddie Lopez Tel: 01392 275004
e-mail: exeter-labour@btconnect.com
Website: http://www.exeter-labour.org.uk/
Local contact: Eliot Wright. Tel: 01392 876674
e-mail: eliot.wright@btinternet.com

Liberal Democrats
Local contact: Sandra Barrett. Tel: 01392 874815
e-mail: thebarretts@tesco.net
East Devon Constituency: Jeanne Jones Tel: 01395 270028
John Bryant Tel: 01392 874057

Exeter Green Party
Campaigns on local "green" issues, organises the popular Exeter Green Fair and contests local elections.
Meetings are held on the first Thursday in the month at 7.00 pm in the Global Centre, Community Centre, St. Davids Hill, Exeter, EX4 3RG
Contact: Mrs. Joyce Barkla Tel: 01392 876825
e-mail: dandjbarkla@phonecoop.coop

13. Music

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Exeter Electronic Organ Club
Promoting concerts by professional, national and international musicians. Monthly concerts are held in Matthews Hall on the first Thursday of the month, doors open 7.00 pm.
Concert 7.45 pm.
Annual membership fee is £25.
Visitors welcome. Tickets available at the door: adults £5, youngsters £1.00
Contact: Maureen Grinham Tel: 01392 466227
e-mail: m.grinham@homecall.co.uk
Website: www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/exeter.html

St. Margaret's Church Choir
Choir practice is at the Church/Church Room on Fridays between 7.00 pm and 8.45 pm.
Sunday rehearsal at 9.30 am for the 10.00 am service.
Age range 7 to 80 years. Visitors welcome.
Contact Tony Yates Tel: 01392 875276

Singing on Tuesdays
Choral singing in an informal atmosphere with music from 16th to 21st centuries: classics, folk, popular standards and world music are all included. (Public performance is not on of our aims)
Singing on Tuesdays is from 7.30 pm to 9.15 pm.
Venue: St. Margaret's lower church room, Topsham.
Age range 16 to 90 years.
Fees: £30 per 10 week term, including music and refreshments.
Contact: Geoffry Brace. Tel: 01392 877810
e-mail: gandsbrace@btinternet.com

Topsham Bellringers
Bell ringing practice is at the Bell Tower
St. Margaret's Church on Thursday evenings between 8.00 pm and 9.00 pm. Ringing for Sunday service 9.30 am to 10.00 am.
Age range 12 years upwards. Visitors welcome.
Contact: Roy Berry Tel: 01392 875981

Topsham Folk Club
Held every Sunday evening (except in August) at the Globe Hotel. Singers' nights in the restaurant at 8.30 pm.
Guest nights are held in the Malt House, attached to the Globe at 8.00 pm (for which an entrance fee is charged).
Contact: John Stephens Tel: 01392 875332
e-mail: johnstephens.topsham@googlemail.com
Website: http://www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk/

Topsham Rock School
Fantastic opportunities for young people aged 10 to 16 years to write, rehearse and perform live music. No experience necessary: enthusiasm essential!
Sessions are held on Mondays in St. Nicholas Methodist church from 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm and from 5.00 pm to 6.30 pm.
Contact: Michael Thomas 01392 200232
Dave Hodges 01392 873471
e-mail: michael@topshamrockschool.org
dave@topshamrockschool.org
Website: http://www.topshamrockschool.org/

12. Military Associations

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The Royal British Legion / Topsham Branch
The Royal British Legion which was founded in 1921 provides financial, social and emotional support to millions who have served and are currently serving in the Armed Forces and their dependents. Nearly 10.5 million people are eligible for support and the Legion receives thousands of calls for help every year. Although the needs of the ex-Service people have changed over the years, we are still there to safeguard their welfare, interests and memory. British service people are in action around the world every day of the year. They know that if they need our support -now or in the future- the Legion will always be on active duty for them.

Membership of the Royal British Legion is open to those who are currently serving (whether regular or reserve), those who have served (including National Servicemen) and those who have not served but support the aims of the Legion. There is a very modest subscription.

The Topsham branch meets four times a year at the White Ensign Club in White Street and there are usually two social events each year. The Legion also organises the annual Service of Remembrance, the Topsham Poppy Appeal and other fund-raising events.

Contact: Major George Simey 01392 879135
e-mail: gsimey@blueyonder.co.uk

The White Ensign Club
Originally formed in 1949 for ex-naval personnel, this is now a members’ social club catering for people from all walks of life living in Topsham and the surrounding area. The club's premises in White Street offer a comfortable and well-stocked bar, skittle alley, pool table and dartboards.
Social activities such as meals and entertainment are organised according to demand.
Open: Friday and Saturday evening 7.30 pm to 11.00 pm.
Saturday and Sunday lunchtime 12 noon to 3.00 pm.
Members must be 18+ with applications for membership being addressed to: The Membership Secretary, Abbey Rooms, White Street,
Topsham, EX3 0AA,
Contact: Maria Billingsley 01392 677627
Website: http://topshamwhiteensign.blogspot.com/

11. Library Services

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Topsham Library

Nelson Close. Tel: 01392 874955

Catering for a wide range of tastes and ages, Topsham Library, in addition to its normal lending service to the community, has five computers with internet access and an excellent children's section.
Opening hours:
Monday: 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm
Tuesday: 9.30 am to 12.30 pm 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday:9.30 am to 12.30 pm 2.00 pm to 7.00 pm
Friday: 9.30 am to 12.30 pm 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm
Saturday: 9.30 am to 12.30 pm
Under 5's Storytime: there is a storytime every Saturday morning from 10.00 am to 10.30 am.
Reading Group: meets on the third Thursday in each month, 10.45 am. to 12 noon.
Books for the Housebound: the WRVS deliver library books to housebound people. For further information: Tel: 01392 276666 or the Library on 01392 874955.
Bounce & Rhyme sessions for Babies and Toddlers on alternate Tuesday mornings 11.00 am to 11.30 am, starting 17 November 2009.

The Library acts as a UK Online Centre for taster and introductory computer lessons. These are arranged as 4 half hour sessions on Friday mornings.
Individual access to online services is available, free of charge, for a half hour period per day.
Website: http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/community/libraries/your_local_library/exeter_libraries/topsham_library.htm

10. Leisure Activities

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Bridge Section, Topsham Bowling Club
Weekly Rubber Bridge on Tuesdays, September to end of April.
Duplicate Bridge on Thursdays, September to end of June.
Monthly Chicago Bridge on first Saturday of the month, October to April.
Venues: Winter: Bowling Club. Summer: Matthews Hall. Approximate times: 7.00 pm. to 10.00 pm.
Membership fee: £22 p.a.
Visitors welcome if brought by member.
Contact: Judy Sugden. Tel: 01392 874124
John Rushworth. Tel: 01392 833254

The Book Group
An informal discussion which focuses on jointly chosen books covering different authors and genres of writing.
The meetings are held monthly at 7.30 pm in members' homes.
Contact: Sheila Stephens Tel: 01392 875332
e-mail: sheilastephens@dsl.pipex.com

Topsham Film Society
The society screens a mix of high quality classic titles and contemporary non-mainstream films. It has over 200 members and screens up to twelve films each season.
Showings are in Matthews Hall on at least two Fridays each month from October to March. Many films have matinees at 3.00 pm and all of them have evening performances at 7.30 pm.
Age range: 16+ Annual membership £21
Contact: Graham Norwood Tel: 01392 874039
e-mail: info@topshamfilmsociety.co.uk
Website: http://www.topshamfilmsociety.co.uk/

Topsham History Group
The aims of the Topsham History Group are to promote and encourage an interest in the history of Devon, particularly relating to Topsham. During the winter months, a lecture programme is arranged and in the summer, outings to houses and villages of interest are organised.
Meetings are held monthly on the second Thursday (although this may vary) at 2.30 pm at the Topsham Museum.
Membership fee: £10
Contact: Myra Green (Secretary): 01392 873059
e-mail: mg@myragreen.f9.co.uk

Exeter Camera Club
See Creative Activities, section 3

9. Keep Fit

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The Fitness League
TFL is the new name for the Women's League of Health and Beauty which now caters for all abilities with exercise to music.
Venue: Matthews Hall weekly on Thursday afternoons. The first class from 1.30 pm to 2.30 pm will suit the less energetic. The second class starting at 2.45 pm to 4.00 pm follows the normal TFL pattern.
Membership fee: £0.50 with a charge of £2.00 for each class.
Contact: Mrs Celia Vale Tel: 01395 442490
e-mail: vailecm@waitrose.com

Pilates Class
A slow, mind/body awareness class to help develop core stability: strength and flexibility which improves posture, balance, reduces back pain, aids stress management and improves breathing.
Venues: The Topsham School: Tuesdays 6.30 pm for beginners and 7.45 pm for improvers.
Dorothy Holman Youth Centre: Wednesdays
9.30 am (improvers) and 10.45 am (beginners). Fridays 9.30 am (improvers).
Contact: Frances Noble Tel: 01392 682557
Mob: 07823446211
e-mail: fran@nobleconnections.co.uk

Pilates Class
Beginners and more advanced. Courses run in 6 week blocks costing £33 per block.
Taught by Annabel Tsouris, a Pilates Institute instructor (Level 3)
Venue: St.Nicholas Church Hall, Mondays 9.45 am to 10.45 am.
For more information: Tel: 01392 218203 or 07832274066
http://www.pilates-and-spinaltouch-exeter.co.uk/

Over 50s Keep Fit
Safe gentle, top-to-toe workouts to improve mobility, balance, muscle tone, co-ordination, puff and stamina and general get-up-and-go.
Age 50+ years. Visitors welcome.
Weekly meetings during term time on
Mondays from 10.00 am to 11.00 am in the Dorothy Holman Youth Centre, Ferry Road.
Fees are about £8 per term.
Contact: Mrs. Barbara Castellini
Tel: 01392 875776

Weightwatchers
Setting and achieving weight loss goals in an expert, friendly and supportive environment.
Meetings are held on Monday evening in St. Margaret's Church Rooms from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm.
Contact: Claire Foster Tel: 07845228340
Flexible payment plans to suit individual needs.
e-mail: clairefosterww@hotmail.co.uk

Yoga
See Adult & Community Education, section 1

Tai-Chi
Beginners' classes, Wednesdays from 11.00 am to 12 noon in Matthews Hall.
Contact: Fumiaki Tanaka Tel: 01803 865056
Website: www.fumiakitanaka.com

8. Gardening

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Topsham Allotments & Gardens
Exists for everyone interested in
gardening. Presents a programme of outings and talks. Mounts an annual show and offers trading facilities to members.
Annual subscription: £4 single, £6 double
Visitors welcome to social events.
Contact: Pamela Bush Tel: 01392 879512

Topsham Flower Club
The club meets on the third Tuesday of each month in Matthews Hall at 7.30 pm for a flower arranging demonstration.
Visitors always welcome.
Contact: Linda Wilkerson Tel: 01392 875705

7. Early years

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Bumps & Babes
Informal group for mums, dads, mums-to-be and children up to 3 years, to meet every week and share experiences over coffee and cakes. The venue is St. Margaret's Church Rooms on Wednesday mornings between 10.00 am and 12 noon. Adonation of £1 per week would be appreciated.
Visitors welcome.
Contact: Maria Whitton Tel: 07711662917
e-mail: littlegems_@hotmail.com

Topsham Toddlers
Informal group for parents, carers and children up to 5 years old. There is a wide range of play equipment and activities include a craft session, music and story time. A drink and snack is provided.
The venue is the Dorothy Holman Youth Centre and the meetings are weekly on Thursday from 9.30 am to 11.30 am during term time.
Contact: Kathyrn Elecote Tel: 07742671554
e-mail: topshamtoddlers@gmail.com
Website: www.topshamtoddlers.org

Jolly Babies
Musical experiences for babies from 12 weeks to 1 year old, set in an enjoyable social atmosphere. The classes consist of a mixture of nursery rhymes, traditional and original songs with access to percussion instruments.
Venue: The Dorothy Holman Youth Centre, Ferry Road on Tuesdays 10.45 am to 11.45 am.
Cost: £4 per week.
Contact: Karen Tel: 01395 276344 or 07808953169.
Website: http://www.myjollybabies.co.uk/
e-mail: classes@jollybabies.co.uk

Music with Mummy
As above, but for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years.
Tuesdays 9.45 am to 10.45 am
Website: http://www.mymusicwithmummy.co.uk/

Hope House Montessori Nursery School
A small Montessori Nursery Class, up to 20 children aged 3 to 5 years.
In a private house in Topsham with large walled garden. Open term time only.
Happy and caring atmosphere encourages concern and respect for others and for the environment.
Garden activities, art, craft, music and movement are important aspects of the group’s activities.
Contact: Margot and Emma Fletcher
Tel: 01392 875766

6. Drama & Dance

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Estuary Players
Two productions a year in May and November at Matthews Hall with a variety of plays. Opportunities to act and help with other aspects of producing plays. Rehearsals are normally twice a week in the run up to productions. No age limit.
Annual subscription is £10. Visitors are welcome.
Contact: Alan Caig. Tel: 01626 891579
e-mail: alancaig@aol.com
Website: http://www.topshamestuaryplayers.org.uk/

Topsham Amateur Dramatics Society (T.A.D.S.)
Production of musicals, pantomimes and special all-singing shows with music across the spectrum, offering singing, acting, scenery painting and costume production.
Meetings are held at 43 The Strand with a break during the summer. No age limit. No membership fee.
Contact: Marlene Gardner. Tel: 01392 873385
e-mail: beautifulhouse@hotmail.com
Website: www.members.lycos.co.uk/mickmunns/TADS.htm

Wheal Sophia
Wheal Sophia is a group of keen Morris dancers who entertain and delight audiences at a range of functions in towns and villages within a 15 mile radius of Exeter, although weekend events may be outside this area.
Practice sessions are held weekly on Tuesdays from 8.00 pm to 10.00 pm in the Dorothy Holman Youth Centre during the months of September to April.
New members are welcome as dancers, if they are fit and have a good sense of dance rhythm, or as musicians, if competent on the fiddle, accordion, melodeon, brass or reed.
Contact: Adrian and Lucy Wynn. Tel: 01392 874718
e-mail: wheal_sophia_nw_morris@hotmail.co.uk

Line Dancing
Come along for fun and fitness. All welcome.
Monday evenings in Matthews Hall.
Beginners and improvers: 7.00 pm to 8.00pm.
Intermediate: 8.15 pm to 10.00 pm
Contact: Estelle Shepherd Tel: 07759797571.
e-mail: estelle.shepherd@tiscali.co.uk
Website: http://www.emsdanceclub.com/

The Topsham School of Dance
Dance classes in ballet, tap and modern stage. Pupils can be entered for examinations and/or take part in dancing displays.
Venue: The Dorothy Holman Youth Centre.
Exam classes: Tuesdays 3.45 pm
Tap and Stage classes: Thursdays 3.30 pm Age range 3+
Fees: £32 for a 10 week term (£28 for ½ hour baby class, over 10 weeks).
Contact: Vicki Lugg. Tel: 01392 876556
Website: vickilugg@hotmail.co.uk

5. Community Groups

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Topsham Community Association
The association promotes the well-being of the inhabitants of Topsham by assisting the local authorities and voluntary organisations in the fields of education, leisure and social welfare.
The association also manages Matthews Hall and promotes the Summer Youth Activities, the Topsham Community Plan and other community projects. Meetings are held bi-monthly in Matthews Hall and frequently include guest speakers on matters of interest or concern to the community. All residents are members and are welcome to these meetings.
Contact: Sue Wilkinson. Tel: 01392 879107
e-mail: gcg.wilkinson@btinternet.com
Website: Topsham Community Association page

The Topsham Society
The society is concerned with the fabric of Topsham and the way in which the physical environment is both preserved and developed. There are committee meetings four times a year, open lectures four times a year and an A.G.M. Membership is open to all and non-members are welcome at the open lectures.
Contact: Mrs. Elizabeth Hubbick. Tel: 01392 877526
e-mail: dandehubbick@btinternet.com
Website: http://www.topshamsociety.co.uk/

Co-cars
The community car club for Topsham and Exeter
Co-cars is a not-for-profit car club which actively promotes sustainable transport.
Enjoy being able to use any of the club cars without the cost and worry of owning and maintaining them.
Dedicated parking space at Topsham Library and four locations within the city
Contact: Tel: 0845 345 2544
e-mail: drive@co-cars.co.uk
Website: http://www.co-cars.co.uk/

Tidy Exeter Group (Topsham)
A group of environmental campaigners working with the support of the Cleansing Department of Exeter City Council.
Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month (except August and December) at 6.00 pm in the Council offices in Paris Street, Exeter.
Local activities include an annual ‘litter pick’ of the reed beds bordering the recreation ground.
Contact: Daphne Burdick.
Tel: 01392 877296
e-mail: tidyexetergroup@lycos.co.uk

Topsham Museum Society
Topsham museum celebrates the story of Topsham and the estuary through a varied display of local history, local crafts and Vivien Leigh memorabilia. The new River Gallery houses historic local boats focusing on the history of the Exe estuary. There are lunchtime lectures during the summer months.
The museum is run entirely by volunteers and if you are interested in helping then please contact the museum.
Opening times: from Easter until the end of October, from 2.00 pm to
5.00 pm on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday with afternoon teas available.
Entry is free and there is access for the disabled.
Contact: Myra Green Tel: 01392 873244
e-mail: museum@topsham.org
Website: www.devonmuseums.net/topsham

4. Charities & Trusts

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John Sheer & Others Charities
This charity provides financial help by means of a quarterly pension to the persons the trustees consider are in need of help, provided that they have lived in Topsham for the past 3 years. The trustees meet as appropriate at the Bowling Club.
Contact: David Tucker. Tel: 01392 873168

The Market House Trust
Provides financial help by means of grants to organisations/bodies for the general benefit of Topsham. Grants cannot be given to individuals. The trustees meet twice yearly at the Bowling Club.
Contact: David Tucker. Tel: 01392 873168

3. Creative Activities

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Topsham Art Group
The Art Group has a very large membership in and around Topsham, in fact there is a waiting list of those who wish to join! There are monthly meetings which include demonstrations, talks, visits to national venues and, of course, the Annual Exhibition in August.
The age range of members is from 25 to 85 years and they meet at The Topsham School on the last Friday of the month, from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm.
Contact: Dr. Brian Clarkson Tel: 01392 273242
74 Magdalen Road, Exeter, EX2 4TR.

Estuary Players and T.A.D.S.
See Drama & Dance, section 6

Exeter Camera Club
Our aim is to promote the art of photography with critiques of members' work, inspiration from visiting photographers, workshops and exhibitions of members' work throughout the city.
The venue is the Cardinal Newman Centr, Wonford Road, meeting at 7.30 pm. every Thursday from the last week in September until May. In the summer months there are field trips every other Thursday. All ages and visitors are welcome.
Contact: Ken Barrett. Tel: 01392 877475
e-mail: mailto:ken@vipvideoservices.co.uk
Website: http://www.exetercameraclub.co.uk/

2. Annual Events

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Topsham Town Fayre
The Town Fayre is a week of events and activities held in August, ending on a Saturday night with the Carnival procession.
This is organised by a committee of volunteers that meets once a month.
Contact: Mrs. Veronica Coe. Tel: 01392 875695
See Topsham Town Fayre 2009 for a flavour of events.

The Annual Flower and Vegetable Show
See Topsham Allotments and Gardens, section 8

Art Exhibition
See Topsham Art Group, section 3

Bonfire Night
This is held at the Rugby Club on 5 November with a spectacular bonfire and fireworks to match. The bar is open and food available.
There is a charge for admission.

Christmas Lights
Community supporters and volunteers organise the Christmas lights along the main streets and the Topsham Business Forum provide additional support for the 'switch on' ceremony. Look for posters and further information in November.

Topsham to Turf Lock Swim
Mike Stevens, the ferryman, started this as a fund-raising activity for the Estuary League of Friends. He and other volunteers swim from the ferry jetty down river to the Turf Hotel and good swimmers can join in too. The swim is now becoming established as an annual event held in September. Look for local posters and in Estuary magazine for details.

Summer Youth Activities
See Youth Activities, section 22

1. Adult & Community Education

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Classes scheduled to run in Topsham:

Provider: Exeter College
Adult and Community Education.
Tel: 01392 205232
Website: http://www.exe-coll.ac.uk/
Three yoga classes will be running in Topsham 2010. For details of times and venues please use the Exeter College website, go to 'Adult Education' then 'Details of all courses.

Provider: Workers Educational Association (WEA)
Tel: 01392 490970
e-mail: sw-regionaloffice@wea.org.uk
For details and updates of courses, please contact by telephone.