'SMUGGLING in Devon' is the subject of a talk by freelance writer and photographer Robert Hesketh, which takes place in West Devon next week.

The illustrated talk, at 2pm on Thursday, October 11 in Bridestowe Village Hall, covers a topic which had become a huge industry between 1700 and 1850 with the majority of Devonians active, profiting or at least colluding in it. Few people thought cheating the Government of exorbitant taxes was wrong and smugglers brought to trial were usually acquitted by sympathetic Devon juries and magistrates.

The event has been organised by The West Devon Association of the National Trust. All those interested are welcome to attend. Admission £3.