Blanche Wonnacott Rights of Way appeal 2

Footpath 58 (South Tawton) and 14 (Throwleigh)
Tenant Mr. W.G. West
Proof of Mrs. G. B. Wonnacott

This is not only an established and dedicated right-of-way a short direct track from South Tawton to Throwleigh from the country road at East week to the country road at Throwleigh, but is also a cart track with fords and footbridges marked on the O.S. Maps and very much used before the advent of motor cars as trade delivery vans.

Bakers, butchers, fishmongers etc., used this short cut to Throwleigh for the delivery of their goods by horse and trap, the predecessor of the present motor-van. A photograph of a South Zeal baker's covered delivery van can be seen among the plates after page 52 of Miss Varwell's "Throwleigh". Before the houses were built in the Paynes Bridge locality, these bakers' traps (and the others) went to East Week through Ferndale Lane, and, beyond East Week, used this field track with fords across the Blackaton Brook as the short cut to Throwleigh village. I have driven through in the baker's trap and walked the path many times during the first 60 years of my life.

Although this cart track and bridlepath-right remain, the track is now mainly used as a footpath. On one occasion while the footpath survey was in progress, two other local persons (Miss K. Berd and Capt. Greig) were resting near the left bank of the river.

It forms part of a very pleasant circular walk particularly in fine weather, when the river is low. It avoids a long detour between Throwleigh and the villages to the north. I ask for the retention of this path - an enjoyable walk, safe for pedestrians and away from the noise and hazards of road traffic. No previous objection has ever been made to my knowledge by any owner or occupying tenant, nor has there ever been any objection, animate or inanimate - I have never seen a bull there nor any prohibitory notice. The land is owned by Devon County Council and is let as part of a small-holding.