A new chapter for Dartmoor Magazine

I am absolutely thrilled to step into the role of editor for Dartmoor Magazine. It’s a bit daunting to follow in the hallowed footsteps of Sue Viccars, who has done an incredible job, leaving big shoes to fill. Sue’s passion and dedication have made the magazine what it is today, and I’m determined to carry on her sterling work while adding a few fresh touches along the way. Rest assured, our amazing team of freelance writers remains, with some exciting new additions too.

My first issue, set to be out at the end of November, is shaping up beautifully, featuring a superb mix of stories that delve into the landscape, wildlife, conservation, rural crafts, interiors, and, of course, all the ways to enjoy the magnificent outdoors that Dartmoor has to offer.

For those of you wondering who I am and what brings me here, I’ve spent most of my working life in journalism and PR. I got my start at the Western Morning News, back in the days when newspapers were the heartbeat of local campaigning. The 90s and noughties were an exhilarating time to be in print media, and I owe a huge thanks to our brilliant editor Barrie Williams for those unforgettable years.

Since then, I’ve been working in PR and as a freelance writer. I’m Devon born and bred, with my childhood spent exploring southern Dartmoor on horseback, with Pony Club camps at Princehall, mad moments taking part in Hexworthy Over The Walls, and hours spent lost on my point-to-pointers which I trained on the moors in all weathers.

Today things are a little calmer with amblings over the moorlands to capture staggering sunrises and sunsets, and time spent exploring all the fabulous cafes and places to stay and eat.

So, what can you expect in the upcoming issue? Just to give you a taste: Tim Ferry explores a greener Dartmoor and the need for tree regeneration; Tim Jenkins uncovers Dartmoor’s forgotten stonecutting past; Tim Martin ventures out with Dartmoor’s wildest farmers; and John Walters reveals how Dartmoor’s insects brave the cold.

We’ve also got Robert Hesketh meeting a clockmaker from South Brent, Malcolm Snelgrove capturing the beauty of a circular walk to Bellever Tor, and Lori Reich creating the ultimate cheeseboard featuring some of Dartmoor’s finest producers. Plus, Harry Hook shares her glamping experience with winter-warming recipes, Society House offers tips on cosying up your home, and we visit the lovely Sexton Cottage in Widecombe-in-the-Moor, brimming with gifts for all budgets.

You’ll find Christmas gift ideas, a beautiful walk led by former editor Sue Viccars, Anton Coaker’s brilliant column, and news from the Dartmoor National Park and National Trust. There’s also a special feature on things to do with kids on Dartmoor, thanks to St Christopher’s Prep School and Nursery’s head teacher Alexandra Cottell, and a fascinating story about Margaret Rogers, a fifth-generation farmer at Higher Venton Farm, her iconic home on the road between the Rugglestone Inn and Chittleford.

We’ve got a fresh new column by another Lucy Johnson on wild swimming spots, and Anna Baness shares her insights on sustainable travel around Dartmoor.

I hope you enjoy the issue, out at the very end of November. It’s still the magazine you know and love, though you might notice a few subtle tweaks to the design, letting the moorland’s beauty shine through with stunning photography. Happy reading!