A countryside lover said he was “shocked and dismayed” when a forest around High Peak, near Sidmouth, was “chopped down”. Read this and more.

CASH THANKS: Organisers of a “wonderful” coffee morning in aid of Sidmouth Living with Cancer in St John Hall last Friday, June 29, have celebrated a �453 haul.

They issued a “big thank-you” to everyone who attended or helped out.

One generous, anonymous donor sent a cheque for �50.

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CARNIVAL CREAM: A Devon cream tea next Sunday, July 15, will benefit Newton Poppleford Carnival.

The event, in the village hall, will take place from 3pm to 5pm and entry is �3.

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SHOCKED AND DISMAYED: A countryside lover said he was “shocked and dismayed” when a forest around High Peak, near Sidmouth, was “chopped down”.

James Witty said the woodland had been there for more than 50 years.

He was subsequently told by a South West Coast Path National Trail officer that the trees around High Peak are conifers grown for their timber and, as with any crop, “there comes a time when they are ready for harvesting, and this is what the landowner is doing”.

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OVER 60’S CLUB: The next meeting of the Sid Vale Over 60’s Club is on Monday, July 16 in Primley Road Church, Sidmouth, at 2.30pm.

The subject is macular disease, and organiser Betty Hawkins welcomes anyone to come along and meet people in a relaxed environment. Admission is �1 for visitors, to include refreshments.

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ART AND CRAFT FAIR: At St John’s Hall in Blackmore Drive tomorrow morning there is an art of craft fair from 10am to 4pm.

The fair will feature work by local craftsmen, admission is free, with refreshments available.