Businesses in Torrington are supporting the preservation and management of Torrington Commons by joining a scheme offering discounts and benefits to shoppers. 36 businesses have now signed up to the 365 Supporters Group launched by Great Torrington Commons Conservators.
Torrington Commons comprise 365 acres of land surrounding Torrington, except on its eastern side. The land was given to the people of the town in the 12th century and transferred to an elected committee of conservators in the 19th century. The unspoilt countryside is freely accessible to all and visitors can walk the 20 miles of footpaths, from Great Torrington Golf Course in the north through ancient wood and wild flower meadows in the west and dropping down to the River Torridge valley to the south. There is also pedestrian access from the Tarka Trail.
365 Supporters Group

The Conservators are a non-profit making charity which relies on donations from the public and local businesses, grants and fundraising in order to preserve and maintain the commons. This is the reason for the launch of the 365 Membership Group. 

Already some 150 individuals have signed up to pay £2 (or more) per month in support. In return they receive benefits including a free copy of the trail map and invitations to guided walks and special events. They also receive a membership card which entitles them to discounts or special offers from specific businesses in Torrington. The Conservators hope that as well as supporting its management of the Commons, businesses will experience increased trade.

Andrew Giles, vice-chairman of the Conservators, explains that the card scheme is similar to one run for Hampstead Heath in London and that the Heath & Hampstead Society had offered helpful advice on setting up Torrington’s scheme. 36 businesses have signed up to the scheme to date and Andrew invites more businesses to join these.

All participating businesses are listed on the Conservators’ web site with clickable links through to their own web sites.
A random sample of current member businesses includes AHJ Curtis Builders, Collectability, Dartington Crystal, Everest Indian Takeaway, The Puffing Billy, R & S Ware Butchers, Squires Electrical, Steve Gladwin Family Butchers and Torrington Golf Club.
Member businesses offer a wide variety of products and services available locally.
Torrington remains one of North Devon’s treasures and the 365 Supporters Group serves both to preserve the Commons and support the local economy.

Support Torrington Commons
Anyone can sign up to support Torrington Commons, wherever they live, and businesses are invited to join the scheme by offering a discount to members. See details and join online at torringtoncommons.org
