News

March 2010

Each year The Topsham Society marks a significant improvement in the town’s physical environment with the Enhancing Topsham Award. There were four nominations for this year’s award. They were: the conversion of the Steam Packet into the new Route 2 Café, Bar and Cycle Hire, the refurbishment of the Topsham Pharmacy, the Ros Ailither, currently moored at Topsham Quay, and the refurbishment of Matthews Hall.

The judges felt that the standard of the nominations was very high this year, and more than one would have been worthy winners of the award (although there was some doubt as to the eligibility of the Ros Ailither which, at some point, might sail away and enhance some other town). After due deliberation it was decided that the award this year should go to the Topsham Community Association for the refurbishment of Matthews Hall.

It was noted that the fund-raising for the work had been a true community effort and that the improvement in the amenities at the hall would be a significant benefit to the community. The award will be presented to the Topsham Community Association at The Topsham Society Annual General Meeting on 10th June

The next Topsham Society talk is on Friday 26th March in Matthews Hall starting at 7.30. Amyas Crump, who is a local railway enthusiast and author, will talk on “By Rail to Exeter”. He will tell the story of the introduction of the steam train to Devon. Doors open at 7 p.m. when wine, coffee and tea will be available. The talk is free for members of The Topsham Society and £2 for non-members.

GEOFF WILKINSON (879107)

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