The Wheel Turns

After World War II, the economic climate gradually changed. Mechanisation and new growing methods changed the way the land was worked. Refrigeration and freezing increased shelf life and imported foods appeared in the shops. Economies of scale brought success to larger enterprises or co-operatives, but made business difficult for smaller market gardens.

Locally, the Coles, Underhills and Tuckers adapted by setting up specialised businesses, such as plant nurseries or greengrocery shops. Several of the Pyne patriarchs died just after the War, and the business began to contract.

Throughout Topsham, the land was gradually sold and streets and houses appeared where once there had been trees and fruits.