North Devon gears up to celebrate community and culture in 2026

There are many things that we are blessed with living in Torridge. For a small community, we are lucky to have such a rich blend of vibrant arts, deep history, unique landscapes, and a strong community spirit that allows us to celebrate our creativity, customs, and traditions.

With this in mind, I am delighted that the Northern Devon Flourishing Culture Awards are returning in 2026. Culture means many things to many people, and these awards recognise the diverse ways in which cultural activities enrich our lives.

These awards not only offer a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the individuals and groups who contribute so much to our communities but also aim to inspire others to get involved and help shape our cultural future.

The Flourishing Culture Awards were set up as part of North Devon Council and Torridge District Council's Flourishing Culture Strategy to raise the profile of northern Devon's vibrant cultural landscape.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place at Barnstaple Hotel on 13 March and will once again celebrate the people, groups, and organisations who make a significant impact on the culture of communities across North Devon and Torridge.

Anyone who lives or works in North Devon and Torridge can make a nomination.

It's not about choosing the most successful but about highlighting those who have made a positive impact on residents and their community through cultural activity. For more information, please email Claire.gulliver@torridge.gov.uk .

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to spend more time outdoors, learn new skills, or meet new people, then why not check out what the Northam Burrows Ranger team has planned for this winter?

Its annual volunteer recruitment is now open for an exciting programme of practical conservation tasks, designed to help care for local nature reserves and green spaces. From wildflower meadow management to beach cleans and dune fencing, these hands-on projects are a great way to get active, support vital conservation work, and connect with like-minded people.

To find out more, email northam.burrows@torridge.gov.uk or call 01237 479708.

The countryside has always been at the heart of our community, and for many it forms part of their livelihoods. However, we know that times have been challenging recently.

To assist local businesses and farmers, North Devon + is inviting local businesses and farmers to take advantage of two fully funded support programmes: Business BOOST and Farm BOOST. Business BOOST provides one-to-one support from an experienced Business Support Advisor, offering tailored guidance on a wide range of topics.

Farm BOOST delivers specialist advice for farmers and landowners, including help navigating schemes like SFI, Capital Grants, and Countryside Stewardship, plus many more. For more information, call 01237 428 834 or email boost@northdevonplus.co.uk (Business BOOST) or farming@northdevonplus.co.uk (Farm BOOST).