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A Number of the Events that we are lucky enough to Observe during the year.

In February we hold a march to commemerate the battle of 1646 which took place in the town which had be held by the Royalists for many years until the arrival of Oliver Cromwell. His Parlimentarians over-ran the country and gradually crept South until one of the last strongholds was the town of Great Torrington. A battle took place during the night until they won and the only place they could think of to imprison the loosers was the Parish Church. Unfortunately this had been used by the Royalists to store their supply of gunpowder and surely enough there was an explosion killing some 200 prisoners. His reign lasted some 12 years until the Royalists eventually regained control.

In May we hold a delightful series of events including the highly professional crowning of the May Queen who was chosen by the pupils of the Junior School and following this there is a procession through the town so everyone has the opportunity to witness the event.

We also hold an annual pumpkin event where the townsfolk are encouraged to enter and try to grow the largest pumpkin.

For the last couple of years there has also been a grand Scarecrow Competition where scarecrows of a wide range of size and shape are proudly displayed on the outsides of houses and shops until the winner is chosen. Also shown is a sample of the "Vintage Rally" where Dartington Crystal allowed the group to use their car park bringing a range of vintage vehicles to be admired by the good folk of Great Torrington.
The "Streetz" group fo dancers shows how the youth can enjoy themselves whilst entertaining the public at large.

The above selection of photos were donated by the following two members of the town:

1) Dave Sanders of "Davespix

2) Peter Wines of the 1646 experience