Thorverton

Thorverton is situated on the Exe valley between Exeter and Tiverton, Crediton and Cullompton. It is picturesque with cobbled paths and running water in the gutter alongside the road. The land mostly belongs to the Church Commission so is relatively unspoilt. A stream runs through the village bearing water from the surrounding hills and there have been some spectacular floods from time to time. Thorverton has a population of 500-1000 people. There is a primary school of over 70 pupils (we could do with a few more); a splendid Parish Church dating from the 12thC dedicated to St Thomas a Becket as well as a Baptist Chapel. There are three pubs, The Exeter Inn, The Bell and The Thorverton Arms. Villagers rescued the Post Office, which is now a porta-cabin in the car park. Our shop closed on April 1st 2006 but plans are afoot to provide a 'community facility'. The nearest shop, apart from a farm shop, is in Silverton two miles away and many people are unable to get there. Apart from which a lot of village business was done as people met on their way to or from the shop. There is a large Memorial Hall and a smaller WI Hut, a wooden affair from the war. There is lots of clubs - arts, painting classes, cards, yoga, choirs etc. There is also a very popular village magazine run by volunteers. The village is in danger though, house prices are too high; farmers have to import workers; few people wish to clean for others. Many in-comers work hard and spend little time in the village community. Also there are older people retiring here who do not bring children to school so pupil numbers are close to the bone. It is hoped that more affordable housing will be built and offered to those born in the village who wish to stay and bring up their families. When all is said and done, there are many of us who appreciate the place and the people on a daily basis…