Budleigh Past and Present

  Volunteers from Fairlynch added a vintage note to Budleigh’s Late Night Christmas Shopping event on Friday 5 December as they paraded along the High Street in 19th century costume. “We decided that we'd be dressing up in long skirts, high-necked blouses, shawls, mob caps, aprons, mittens and baskets in our interpretation of Victorian street sellers,” said the Museum’s Christine Bailey. “Some of our trustees were in frock coats and top hats to complete the picture.”   Fairlynch is noted for its fine collection of costumes from past centuries, but only a few of its garments are available for dressing-up events and these are kept separately, being mostly in poor condition. “We would welcome any donation of vintage costumes which might be suitable for wear by volunteers or visitors for dressing up,” said Christine.   You can read about the Museum's need for hats here

    The Museum garden will be the setting for the Budleigh Salterton Chamber of Commerce tea party on Bank Holiday Monday 26 August.   The event is being held to celebrate the 50th birthday of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. To mark this special anniversary a series of events and activities have taken place during 2013 to raise the profile of the area, which is one of Britain 's finest protected landscapes, both rich in culture and a haven for wildlife. Cream teas will be served at the Chamber of Commerce event between 2.00 and 5.00 pm and jazz musicians will help make the afternoon go with a swing. Tickets at £2 are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Fore Street . The Museum will be open as usual for visitors and will include a special lacemaking session with Fairlynch lacemaker Sue Morgan. A TIC spokesperson said that a gazebo will be provided so that the celebration will take place whatever the weather.   ...