Ann Cleeves, the well-known author (‘Vera’, ‘Shetland’), was raised in Barnstaple and has a strong connection to this part of the world. In her novel ‘The Long Call’, set in North Devon and turned into a TV drama in 2021, she describes a vibrant community hub where people meet, engage in creative activities and connect with others. This fictional place was called ‘The Woodyard’.

Last year, Ann was approached by local charities to see whether she would support the development of a real-life Woodyard in Barnstaple. Excited at the prospect, Ann has generously offered her support for, and patronage of, this community hub, sharing her vision of The Woodyard as “a place where people come together and don’t feel lonely” and recognising its importance as a shared resource for local charities.

“The original idea for the fictional Woodyard came from my lifelong friend Sue (Beardshall),” says Ann. “Sue was a social worker supporting adults with a learning disability in Barnstaple and recognised the need for a community space where everyone could meet, connect and feel safe. 

I am so delighted to now support The Woodyard team and the local community in their mission to turn fiction into reality!”