Cornwall in Focus News

Devon in Focus

Published 06 Aug 10 15:30

Yes, it's not a spelling mistake, Devon as well as Cornwall has been in the news a lot of the last week or so.

Firstly, Hollywood movie director Steven Spielberg has been focussing his efforts, not to say several camera lenses on Dartmoor recently. Residents of the moorland village of Meavy, near Yelverton were shocked to learn the 63 year old movie master was in the village directing scenes for the forthcoming movie 'War Horse'. The film an adaption of local author Michael Morpurgo's novel centres on the bond between a young soldier and his horse as they are sent to battle in the First World War.

Secondly we heard about young Kieron Williamson. Inspired by a family holiday in Cornwall, where he visited many fishing villages and harbours, the seven year old artist from Norfolk decided to pick up his paintbrush and try and capture the scenes on canvas. Painting in watercolours, pastels and in oils his paintings are truly spectacular, more so because of his tender age. A recent sale of some of his work recently saw the 33 pictures sold for over £150,000. There is now a growing waiting list of buyers eager to purchase his work.

Next we read a recent article in the Daily Telegraph's property section. The July 31st issue stated 'Why a cottage in Cornwall beats a villa overseas'. Always a great location in which to stay or live permanently, the article explains that the standard of properties being offered in Cornwall has never been higher. All modern tastes are catered for with hot tubs, jacuzzis and other extras now available at a large number of properties throughout the Duchy. Holiday Bookings are reported to be up by almost 40% with the Telegraph suggesting recent delays at airports due to volcanic gas clouds or BA strikes, as well as the weak Pound and stuttering economy, has caused many people to look closer to home for their weekend breaks or summer holidays. Weather records show that Cornwall is currently experiencing its driest 6 months since the 1920's. Surely, there's never been a better time to visit Cornwall!

Finally, we at Cornwall in Focus have succumbed to popular demand and launched Devon in Focus. After the growing success of Cornwall in Focus and recent CiF articles being featured in 'The Times' as well as a number of smaller publications in Australia and here in the South West, we decided to expand our portfolio. We have negotiated with the wee folk of Devonshire, promising them cream teas as part payment for their involvement with the launch.

The website offers over 900 places to stay in all types of accommodation with places and prices to please even the most discerning visitors. Camp on Dartmoor or swim in your own private pool in South Devon. Looking for an attraction to please the children, searching for that special feeling of 'getting away from it all'? There's truly something for everyone.

It is hoped over the coming months to expand the various sections within Devon in Focus to make the site a worthy sibling to its elder brother. If you would like to get involved, provide articles or pictures for Devon in Focus, or if you would like to advertise your property or have your service listed, please contact us for more information.