Tin mining and snowdrops were the themes of Sarah Buck’s Wednesday walk from Hexworthy, writes Sarah Buck of Newton Abbot Ramblers.

Leading 20 Newton Abbot Ramblers the first point of interest was Gobbet Mine – a post Medieval tin mine which was known to be operational between 1836 and 1874.

A good example of beamworks (where tin lode was followed by digging down from the surface) was seen as well as granite mould stones, mortar stones and grinding wheels used in processing tin.

Joining the open moor at Sherberton views of the Swincombe Valley opened up.

This valley was the proposed site of a reservoir in the 1970s, but local opposition prevented its construction.

Close to the remains of Swincombe Farm two old houses were of interest. John Bishop’s house with its impressive granite porch and the few remaining stones of Dolly Trebble’s house. John was a ditcher and stone mason whilst Dolly was a beautiful woman about whom legends abound.

Apparently she caught the eye of much older Sir Thomas Tyrwhitt and his friend George IV despite being married to William Trebble; perhaps the remote house was the husband’s way of keeping her away from their prying eyes.

Getting to The Hensroost mine involved a tough walk up Ter Hill across rough moorland to Skir Ford and then on to the impressive deeply gullied tin workings including Taylor’s shaft.

Neighbouring Hooten Wheals mine was soon reached via a path that once contained connecting flat rods that extended about 1000m. Although largely destroyed by troops doing artillery practice during World War, two circular buddle bases could still be seen as well as leats and other bits of mine paraphernalia. What a different scene it would have been when the mines were in full production.

In complete contrast to the industrial past, the special little church at Huccaby was a lovely spot with the abundant snowdrops close to peak display. And then it wasn’t far back to the cars completing a 13km figure of eight walk with lots of interest on the way.

Jim and Wendy lead a great walk from Christow on Tuesday. A crowd of 26 were taken on a classic tracks and lanes walk in beautiful scenery with good views.

A lovely lunch stop was enjoyed in Bridford Community garden with the added benefit of a composting toilet. Always a bonus!

Gill and Paul started their walk from Marldon School on a dull, but relatively mild February day. Gill reported that twenty two Ramblers turned up for the six mile walk. The route had been changed as the green lanes were still extremes boggy, and quite dangerous underfoot. We walked up Ipplepen Road, admiring the distant moor, bathed in sunlight. We reached the brow, then dropped down to take the left turn into the quiet lane leading to peaceful Aptor. Signs of Spring already, as wild daffodil bulbs pierced the Winter crust of soil beneath the hedgerows.

Friday was the monthly café walk. Led by Jackie a group of 27 have a lovely two and a half mile walk around Kingskerswell followed by an amazing afternoon tea spread at the Lord Nelson.

On Sunday Rosie led a walk around Cockington. With new born lambs only minutes old, catkins, snowdrops, crocus and camellias it felt as though Springtime had arrived – just about. The five mile walk was completed with whistle wetting at the Drum Inn.

λ For more information about the many other walks offered by Newton Abbot & District Ramblers see www.newtonabbotramblers.org and come along and enjoy good company.