Share your memories to help much-loved North Devon charity mark 30th milestone

North Devon-based charity Calvert Devon is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and is inviting people to share their pictures and memories of the activity centre over the past three decades.

The centre near Kentisbury on the edge of Exmoor opened in 1996 with the belief that adventure should be accessible to everyone and Calvert Devon has spent 30 years opening up the outdoors to people of all abilities.

From climbing walls and riding arenas to water-based adventures in the North Devon countryside, thousands of guests and families have experienced confidence, independence and joy at the centre.

To mark its anniversary, the Calvert Devon team is asking former guests, staff, volunteers, supporters and local residents to share the moments that made it special to them.

They are appealing for pictures, video clips, personal stories and reflections - whether from the early days in the 1990s or more recent visits - that will help shape anniversary storytelling and be part of various displays throughout 2026.

Above: The completed Calvert centre around 1996, with new access ramp, new road and car parks. The charity would like to see your pictures from ‘back in the day’. Credit: Calvert Devon

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Katrina McGrath, the charity’s marketing manager, said: “We know there are so many incredible stories out there.

“Over 30 years, Calvert Devon has grown into something far bigger than a centre - it’s a community. We would love to hear from anyone who has been part of that journey and help celebrate the memories that have shaped who we are today.”

Less than two years ago the then Calvert Exmoor faced closure but was saved in autumn 2024 after the community and generous donors raised £500,000 to ensure it could stay open. It was renamed Calvert Devon last year.

The Calvert story began when the Calvert Trust was formed in the Lake District in 1978 to provide outdoor activities for people with disabilities.

A second centre later opened in the north of England but it was not until the early 1990s that the trust purchased an old Victorian farmstead and surrounding land next to Wistlandpound Reservoir.

Above: An aerial view of the Victorian farm complex near Kentisbury before it was developed to become Calvert Exmoor, now Calvert Devon. Credit: Calvert Devon

Following years of planning and renovation – including a Challenge Anneka episode in 1993 which saw a cattle barn converted into a boathouse and storage area for water activities – the Exmoor centre officially opened in 1996.

As part of its anniversary year, the charity will also be launching a special birthday fundraising campaign this April to help support the next chapter of inclusive adventure.

It said more details will be announced soon, with the community encouraged to get involved.

Open days for residents are also planned for this summer, offering opportunities to visit the centre and celebrate in person.

Above: A group enjoying their time at Calvert Devon before taking to the waters of Wistlandpound Reservoir. Credit: Calvert Devon

Jennifer Young, centre director, said: “As we look ahead to the next 30 years, our ambition is as strong as ever.

“We want to continue breaking down barriers, opening up new opportunities and ensuring that adventure without limits remains at the heart of North Devon.”

Anyone who would like to share memories, photographs or videos of their time at Calvert Devon can email them to marketing@calvertdevon.org.uk

Please include your name, the year of your visit (if known) and confirmation that materials may be used in anniversary displays and publicity.

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