Pub news The Ring of Bells in Bishopsteignton has re-opened. This Grade II listed freehouse is now run by well-known locals Roger, Jayne, Jason, and Becky. We wish them the best for the future of the pub. Mike & Sadie, mine hosts at The Palk Arms in Hennock, were proud for the pub to be asked to be part of the village Remembrance commemorations, providing the refreshments for those attending the lighting of Hennock Beacon. Michael and Gosia Knight have taken over at The Barn Owl in Kingskerswell. They are to run the usual 4 Badger beers plus a changing guest ale. We look forward to holding the January 8th branch meeting there. The Ten Tors Inn in Kingsteignton has a new licensee. Tom and Lindsay Webb have taken over this popular St Austell pub. We wish them well with their new venture. New tenants at The Tally Ho in Littlehempston. Kelly and Mike Joiner have recently returned to the UK from New Zealand where they successfully operated a pub/restaurant business in a rural environment with a strong community bias. Their intention is to emphasise the Tally as a destination pub whilst maintaining the community ethos. Popular chef Paul will be staying on with the rest of the staff. A new landlord at The Star Inn in Liverton. Brian and Carol Godwin previously ran the Huntsman Inn at Ide and are currently carrying out extensive improvements. Our reporter enjoyed Jail, Doombar and Bombardier on a recent visit. The Taphouse in Newton Abbot will be open every day from 10th December until Christmas: Mon to Wed 12 – 9pm, all other days midday till 2300h. Sam Webber has left the pub and Becks Connett is now in charge. New landlord at The Ferry Boat Inn in Shaldon. We wish them well with their new venture. In Paignton, The Torbay Inn features a happy hour with 40p off a pint. Regular ales St Austell Tribute, Sharps Sea Fury, and Wye Valley HPA were joined by guest Adnams Ghost Ship at a recent visit. The Albert Inn in Totnes is happy to report that their Halloween Beer Festival was a success with the traditional pumpkin carving competition producing a high standard of entry. Mine hosts at the Bay Horse Inn in Totnes, Rob & Kathy, are celebrating taking over the freehold of the pub after being leaseholders for the best part of ten years. "It's an opportunity that we couldn't afford to turn down and we are both very happy with our decision. This means the Bay Horse is secured in the Totnes community for the future" said Kathy. Meanwhile, weather permitting on Wednesday January 9th, The Bay Horse is carrying out its tradition of a Wassail. The staff and regulars will be decamping to a local orchard to bless the trees in the company of local folk singers, and will then return to the Bay Horse for some entertainment.