Heather returned to Paignton and between 1952 and 1959 produced many of her best paintings. She used the subject matter around her, in particular Paignton Harbour and the local industrial landscape. She also became a visiting lecturer at Newton Abbot Art School teaching weaving and bookbinding.

In 1951 she became engaged to Thomas Nathaniel Davies and they became a major part of a fairly short-lived bohemian arts scene in the town that was principally centered around the colourful arts balls and parties at The Belfry Club opposite the Arts School. Heather carried on painting during this period and had two paintings accepted for the highly prestigious ‘Industrial Britain’ exhibition at the Chenil Gallery in 1956. She also exhibited at The Royal West of England Academy. In 1958 Heather and Nathaniel married and they moved to ‘Belmont’ in Newton Abbot