TALES of a distinguished sailor who spent most of his career during the Cold War era, were outlined to Teignmouth Probus Club.

Sir Jonathan Tod, vice-admiral and Royal Navy commander in chief fleet, described midshipman escapades, skippering aircraft carriers and intelligence initiatives with the Russians.

Other speakers lately were Nigel Smallbones talking about the secrets of Berry Head, Brixham, including the rare flora and the lighthouse; Liz Mitchell outlining the speed awareness course and how to drive safely in advancing years, and Brian Freeland, who regaled members with humorous anecdotes from theatre land through his job as a theatre manager, from a trainee with Moss Empires, to the Saddlers Wells touring company.

The next speaker will be Newton Abbot town centre manager Sally Henley.