the annual Torridge District Youth Speaks competition was again hosted by Shebbear College. Eight teams took part this year, five from Shebbear and three from Great Torrington School. The standard was particularly high and all participants impressed the judges. Of particular note were the team who spoke on the subject of Sweeney Todd. Amy Thompson spoke with energy and enthusiasm about this gruesome topic. The winners of the evening were a second form team from Shebbear who spoke on the subject of 'They don't make wives like they used to'. Chairperson Jessica Sayers held the team together in a professional manner and led the meeting with a cheerful yet controlled air. The main speaker, Joe Hedges, held the audience in the palm of his hand with his witty and ironic speech that focussed on what a good wife should be! The team's effort was rounded off by Elliott Haskins as the proposer of the vote of thanks who spoke with wit and clarity. The winning team then went through to the area final which was held at North Devon College where they met four other teams from around the county. The competition was tough but Shebbear held their own and gave an excellent performance. However, despite their valiant and strong effort they were pipped at the post.
