Plymouth Chronicle Central & Waterfront February 2022 by Cornerstone Vision

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February 2022

Central & Waterfront

Celebrating St Luke’s - See special feature on pages 10 and 11

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2 February 2022

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With ‘Plan B’ ending we still need to keep protecting ourselves It is really good news that COVID-19 rates in Plymouth and nationally are falling, after reaching their highest ever levels in recent weeks due to the Omicron variant.

In Plymouth, we saw our weekly rate of cases reach a peak of 1,661 per 100,000 before falling to the current figure of around 940. However, we must remember that this rate is still incredibly high and is about the same as our last peak in mid-July. The Government has now announced that from 27 January it plans to lift ‘Plan B’ restrictions, which include the mandatory wearing of face coverings in public venues and the requirement to show an NHS Pass for entry to nightclubs and venues where large crowds gather. Even though these measures will no longer be mandatory, the Government is advising that we continue to wear a face covering in crowded and

enclosed spaces where we may come into contact with other people we do not normally meet. This is important as we need to do all we can to ensure we continue our downward trend in the number of cases in Plymouth. We cannot just assume that will happen. High cases matter because although some people might experience this as a fairly mild disease, many people won’t. There are currently over 130 people in Derriford with COVID-19 and, although some of them are in hospital for other reasons and happen to have the virus, most are there because their COVID-19 symptoms are so bad. And of course there are many other people who have not been admitted but still had a nasty illness. There is strong evidence that COVID-19 can cause an illness that lasts for many months, in some people. This is a highly infectious disease and so many

NEW RULES ON WHEN TO TAKE A PCR TEST

people are having to take time not just off work but also out of their usual life by self-isolating, even if they have milder symptoms. Although the policy change means that some people can leave self-isolation early, many people are finding that they are still infectious (LFTpositive) and are having to remain self-isolated for 10 days. The high case rates are leading to staff shortages in many key areas, not least in health and social care. In addition, high numbers of cases mean the virus is replicating many times and this increases the risks of new variants appearing. Vaccination helps to reduce spread but most importantly has reduced the proportion of people who are now dying from COVID-19, which is excellent news; but numbers are still very high. So, even though Plan B is ending, we still need to be doing what we can to reduce the impact of this highly infectious disease.

Though we might not have to wear face coverings indoors, we still can – and I would argue that we still should.

By Dr Ruth Harrell

Director of Public Health for Plymouth

The Government has made temporary changes to the COVID-19 testing requirements in England in response to the rise in Omicron cases. These affect when you should take one of the two different types of test that are available to check if you have coronavirus (COVID-19): • PCR tests are mainly for people with symptoms. They’re sent to a lab to be checked • Rapid lateral flow device (LFD) tests are for people who do not have symptoms. They give a quick result. If you have a positive LFD test result you must report your results on the Government website and self-isolate immediately. You no longer have to take a confirmatory PCR test unless: • you have COVID-19 symptoms • you wish to claim the £500 Test and Trace Support Payment • you have received an email or letter from the NHS because of a health condition that means you may be suitable for new COVID-19 treatments. (If this applies to you and you develop any COVID-19 symptoms, you should use the PCR test kit that was sent to you in the post for this purpose; if you have not received a PCR test kit you can arrange to have a PCR test) • you are taking LFD tests as part of research or surveillance programmes and the programme asks you to take a follow-up PCR test.

Changes to self-isolation rules

The rules around isolation have changed.

If you test positive, your self-isolation period includes the day your symptoms started (or the day you had the test, if you did not have symptoms) and the next 10 full days. However, if you test positive you can now stop self-isolating after five full days if you do a rapid lateral flow test five full days after your symptoms started and another the following day and: • both tests are negative • both tests have been conducted at least 24 hours apart

• you do not have a high temperature. If you stop self-isolating before the 10 full days due to two negative tests, it’s important that you take steps to reduce the chance of passing COVID-19 to others. This means you should work from home if you can, wear a face covering as required and limit contact with people at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19. If, after 10 days, you continue to test positive, have a high temperature or feel unwell, keep selfisolating and seek medical advice.

Where to get your vaccine jab

If you need a first or second dose of your COVID-19 vaccination, or a booster, you can get one at Home Park or the Council’s mobile vaccine van. You don’t need an appointment or NHS number. The mobile van, which is only offering the Pfizer vaccine for first and second jabs, will be visiting the following locations: • Monday 24 January: Tothill Community Centre (midday to 7pm) • Tuesday 25 January: Devonport Library (midday to 7pm) • Thursday 27 January: Methodist Central Hall (11am to 5.30pm) • Friday 28 January: Plympton Library (midday to 7pm) • Saturday 29 January: Honicknowle Youth Centre (midday to 9pm) Home Park is also offering walk-in vaccinations. Please check the website for sessions for specific age groups. Visit www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/get-tested.

HOW TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE

You can check the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth on the Council’s website at www. plymouth.gov.uk/COVID-19. NOTE: This information was correct at the time of going to press on January 20.

Out and About Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

Age Concern Events Weekly Community sessions each week including games, craft making, quizzes and refreshments. Helping older ladies and gents to prevent loneliness and get socialising again. Sessions on Tuesday at Mountwise Neighbourhood Centre, Devonport from 10am to 12 noon or 1pm to 3pm and Fridays at Manadon Sports Community Hub from 10am to 12 noon or 1pm to 3pm. Entry is £5 but everything supplied. Contact Abi or Lisa at the Active Living team on 01752 256020. Stoke Village Hub Weekly events Mondays from 10am to 12 noon Age UK drop in. Meet the Age UK volunteer who can offer support and a wide range of services and activities for older people. Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon Money Matters. Are you behind with your energy bills or struggling to keep your home warm. Chat the a qualified energy advisor. Wednesdays from 2pm to 3pm Compassionate Friends. For those who have been bereaved or anticipating a bereavement. Chance to have a cuppa and chat in a safe environment. Wednesdays 7.30pm to 9pm Squat Theatre - go along to this friendly drama group. Thursdays from 11am Crafters and Grafters. Go along and help with gardening or bring your craft to share with others. Weekly Events at Devonport Live All these events held at Devonport Live, 56 George Street, Devonport. For details call 01752 657843. Mondays Backgammon 10am to 12 noon; Scrabble Group 1.30 to 3.30pm; Tuesdays Timebank 10am to 12 noon; Wednesdays Job Club 9am to 12 noon. Wide range of support and available or those who are looking for work or need advice on training opportunities or help on creating CV etc; 10am to 12 noon Little Fish parent and toddler playgroup (booking required); 1pm Film Afternoon £3.50 (includes coffee or tea with slice of cake; Thursdays Craft Group £1 per person; Fridays Reiki Healing or Sports Massage (by appointment, charges apply). An Evening with Kevin Keegan Jan 28 Home Park will host an evening with the England legend, following in the footsteps of the Peter Shilton evening last year. Keegan, a twotime winner of the prestigious Ballon d’Or with an honours list as long as any English footballer in history, will speak on his decorated career, before offering the floor to questions from guests within Club Argyle. Tickets cost £50 for this one-off event, or £45 for Plymouth Argyle season ticket holders or Club Argyle members, and include a delicious hot fork buffet and photo opportunities with the man affectionately known as ‘King Kev.’ For tickets visit the Home Park Ticket Office, call 01752 907700, or go to argyletickets.com. Mulan: Woman, warrior, legend Jan 28 Presented by Red Dragonfly Productions and Grist to the Mill Productions at the Barbican Theatre, Plymouth. For ten years Mulan disguised as a man, has fought for the Chinese Empire. Now the fighting is coming to an end, one last battle and she will be going home but can she return to her old life, become a woman again. A search for identity in a violent world. Presenting the real Chinese heroine who inspired Disney’s animation and live-feature Mulan. A pay what you decide show. More details at www.barbicantheatre.co.uk Martin Kemp Feb 4 Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp heads to Plymouth Guildhall for a Back to the 80s DJ set. For tickets and details visit www.gigantic.com/ martin-kemp-tickets/plymouth-plymouthguildhall/2022-02-04-20-00

Community groups, friends and families are being encouraged to join in the celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum anniversary by taking part in the Big Jubilee Lunch. See details below. Jumble Sale Feb 5 Popular Jumble Sale to be held at St Francis Church Hall, Little Dock Lane, Honicknowle, 11am to 1pm. Go along to bag a bargain, enjoy the refreshments and have a chatter. I Wonder, January Feb 8 and March 8 Free wellbeing sessions: find calm at The Box. Always Welcome wellbeing sessions are aimed at members of local community groups, carers, people living with memory loss, and over 40s wishing to improve their mental wellbeing and to meet other people. You’ll be guided by professional artist, yoga and mindfulness teacher, and group sound therapist, Carly Seller. As one of the artist facilitators at The Box, Carly has extensive experience working with individuals, communities and creative organisations in Plymouth and the surrounding areas. Free, but booking essential. Go to www. theboxplymouth.com/events/wellbeing/alwayswelcome-wellbeing-sessions. Winter Warmers - Oaksfest Comedy Night Feb 11 Hosted by Plymstock Albion Oaks Rugby Club featuring three brilliant acts and freshly cooked Thai food from the B-Bar kitchen. Tickets £10. Details on club’s Facebook page. Brawl in the Guildhall Feb 26 Plymouth’s own REACH Wrestling will present the biggest professional wrestling event in the South West in more than a decade. As well as featuring wrestlers who have trained at the REACH Academy the event will also feature former WWE NXT UK stars, Eddie Ryan and Joel Redman. Special guests on the night include former British Olympic diver Tonia Couch and Marc Ormrod MBE, former Royal Marine, Invictus Games athlete, author and motivational speaker, who will both be in attendance and will present the winners of the championship matches with their championship belts. For tickets and details visit www.reachwrestling. com/events/ Geoff Norcott: I Blame the Parents Mar 12 Comedian, author and political commentator brings his brand new tour to the Quad Theatre at Marjons. Geoff now has a string of top-level credits to his name including The Last Leg,

Would I Lie to You?, Mock the Week and Live at The Apollo. Tickets and details at www. livenation.co.uk The 4 Sea Sons Mar 18 Live music is back at the Boringdon Park Golf Club. The 4 Sea Sons are the ultimate tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. They combine the iconic harmonies and unrivalled showmanship of one of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s most prestigious groups, ensuring their legacy continues to live on. Tickets include three course dinner and welcome drink. Adults only and pre-booking required. For details and tickets call 01752 339113. Doors open 7pm, 1am finish with house DJ. Art Exhibition Apr 1 to 4 An art exhibition and sale of works by Plymouth Arts Club and Plymouth Watercolour Society will be held at Ford Park Cemetery Visitors Centre between10.30am to 3.30pm each day. Cafe available and free parking. The Big Jubilee Lunch June 2 to 5 The Big Jubilee Lunch is the cherry on the cake of The Queen’s Platinum celebrations happening right across the nation over the first weekend in June. It’s all about sharing friendship, food and fun – a chance for neighbours and communities to celebrate their connections and get to know one another a little better. There are more reasons than ever to celebrate together and this year millions of people are expected to join The Big Jubilee Lunch with street parties and garden get-togethers happening across the UK over the Platinum Jubilee weekend. The Big Jubilee Lunch is a nationwide act of community friendship, with 2022 set to be a bumper year! Get set for neighbourhood and community-wide celebrations that anyone and everyone can be part of, with over 200k events expected right across the UK, and locally where you live. For more information and to download a free pack go to www.thebigjubileelunch.com One Night of Neil June 4 An incredible collection of stars from London‚‘s West End, backed by a phenomenal nine-piece band, will bring a concert celebrating the

wonderful music of Neil Diamond to Home Park Stadium. Fifty years on from Neil‚‘s legendary ‘Hot August Night‚‘ concerts in 1972, One Night of Neil is set to be an extraordinary celebration of one of the world‚‘s greatest singer-songwriters. With over 20 years of stadium concert experience, an expert team drawn from the worlds of Rock and Roll and West End theatre reproduce a stunning show worthy of the icon himself. Featuring dozens of his greatest hits and perhaps even some that only the diehard fans will know and love, this is a show no follower of Neil should miss. Tickets available now through the Home Park Tickets Office or by calling 01752 907700. VIP packages available. Plymouth Armed Forces Day June 25 Armed Forces Day returns to The Hoe and promises to be bigger and better than ever, celebrating the military and all the great work they do. This family fun day, in association with Babcock, will include a wide variety of thrilling activities and displays. The main stage will host performances from local choirs and groups throughout the day, and from 6pm, a free evening concert will entertain the crowds with a fantastic range of live music for all to enjoy. You can sing-a-long and dance the night away, with the fabulous backdrop of Plymouth Sound, with a fantastic headline act being announced soon! For more information visit www.plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk Paloma Faith Jul 9 Double platinum and BRIT award-winning artist Paloma Faith will embark on a huge UK summer tour, performing at some amazing outdoor venues throughout the UK, including a date in Plymouth on Saturday July 9 at Central Park. For tickets and more information go to www. premier.ticketek.co.uk/ Sail GP Jul 30 and 31 SailGP will host its Great Britain Sail Grand Prix in Plymouth for the second year running following a bumper event in 2021 which saw an estimated 27,500 spectators enjoy the spectacle. For full details visit SailGP.com Send details of your event to info@ cornerstonevision.com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About

4 February 2022

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Key development milestone reached in revolutionary health centre plan

A new multi-million pound, multi-storey, multi-disciplinary health centre, which could revolutionise health treatment in Plymouth, has moved a step closer with the planning application for the scheme now formally submitted. The West End Health and Wellbeing Centre aims to bring ‘health to the High Street’ by combining services ranging from doctors and dentists to counsellors and pharmacists all in one single building. The bright, modern, eco-friendly health centre would be located in Colin Campbell Court in the west end of the city and it is hoped it will help kick-start the regeneration of the area with thousands of people visiting it a day. The building will have two main entrances: one along Western Approach and one opposite Colin Campbell House, the art deco building at the centre of Colin Campbell Court. Plymouth City Council and the NHS are working together on the project and have been involving local people in the development of the plans which have now been submitted

Artist’s impression of the new health centre. Image KTA Artichects

The application could be determined as soon as Easter 2022 and, if approval were given, the ‘best-case’ timeline for the project involves an 18-month construction phase starting in the autumn, ahead of planned opening in 2024. This area of Plymouth has the greatest health needs and lowest life expectancy in the city. Multi-disciplinary teams involve specialists from different areas of health and social care - for example GPs, dentists, nurses, mental health professionals and the voluntary sector - working together to provide care to people that

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supports all their needs. By bringing different teams into a single setting, it opens up great new prospects for joined-up, seamless care. From the outset the project and design team have been working in close collaboration with local residents, doctors, dentists, patients, politicians, community groups and businesses to encourage people to feel part of the project, to help shape it and to strengthen the local community. Current plans, which are all subject to planning consent, show: • A three-storey building with a total floor area of about 5,800m2 • A ground floor devoted to nonclinical community spaces designed to be light, airy and welcoming • A central hub in the building incorporating waiting area, café, seating, community kitchen/dining and other group activity functions • A central courtyard to bring light and natural ventilation to the heart of the building • Clinical spaces on the upper floors • ‘Biophilic’ architecture – which uses natural and nature-inspired features to help connect the building and the people who use it to the natural environment – with lots of landscaped spaces • Nearby accessible parking In the summer and autumn of last year engagement programmes were held in the Stonehouse area to ask people about their views on the proposals. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive and at this stage the current thinking on potential services - subject to further approval - for the building are: • Outpatient services provided by University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, which runs Derriford Hospital. • Relocation of existing general practice (GP) services - North Road West Medical Centre, Adelaide Surgery and Armada Surgery although the practices are not considering merging as part of this process. • Mental health services • Community health services • Dentistry and oral health improvement • Voluntary, community and social enterprise sector services • Diagnostic services, including X-ray This should mean that more people could be treated locally rather than having to go to Derriford Hospital and also gives patients an opportunity to have their illnesses treated early so that they don’t become more serious. Jo Turl, Director of out-of-hospital commissioning at Devon CCG, said:

“This is an important milestone in the progress of this complex project and we are delighted to have been able to get to this position so quickly. From the outset we have worked really closely with local people to make sure that their ideas and their feedback are incorporated in everything that we do inside the centre and we are proud of the plans submitted today. We look forward to hearing what the planners and the community think of our application.” The ground floor of the building would include a community kitchen, a dining area, cafe, mental health area, bookable interview and voluntary sector rooms, small meeting ‘pods’ and a pharmacy. Clinical and primary care rooms are expected to be found on the upper floors with GP’s surgeries, offices, dental provision and shared administrative space. Three local GP practices (North Road West Medical Centre, Adelaide Surgery and Armada Surgery) would all like to relocate there. Dr Richard Ayres, GP at Adelaide Surgery and Clinical Lead for the project, added: “This is not only a fantastic building, but a new way of providing healthcare. It will be placed at the very entrance to Union Street, at the border of Stonehouse with the city and easily accessible by all. It would replace three GP practice buildings, all currently in old and completely inadequate sites, and all part of the group that have come together to try to tackle the extremely difficult problems we see in this area. “The new centre will not only provide a ‘one stop shop’ where lots of currently separate providers of care – from general practice, hospital, social services and third sector organisations are all working together – but it will reach out to and be fed into by the surrounding community.” Councillor Patrick Nicholson, deputy leader, who is also responsible for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “It’s been quite a journey to get to this stage, to hear what people want and think about the plans to have these services all under one roof and in a convenient location. “There is still time for people to have their say as part of the planning process, but that will need to be very much about the look of the building itself.” Ajay Sharma, director of KTA Architects, part of the project team, said: “The new building would be a catalyst for the future regeneration of Colin Campbell Court and connecting the wider area. The building is unique in style and nature, welcoming in the community with a natural green living wall design promoting wellbeing.” The planning process gives the public a further chance to comment on the proposals. People have three weeks of consultation from when planners validate the application to submit their thoughts and comments either online or in writing. Visit https://devonccg.nhs. uk/plymouth-centre for more information.

Plymouth firm to take on over 70 more staff A Plymouth business success story has brought some early New Year cheer by announcing it has over 70 jobs to offer in Plymouth.

Later life mortgage specialist Responsible Group will have doubled its headcount in the city inside two years by the time it completes its latest hiring spree. The business consists of the later life mortgage broker Responsible Life and lifetime mortgage lender Responsible Lending. The firm was founded by local entrepreneur Steve Wilkie in 2010 and has become one of the most prominent brokers in the industry, operating from its HQ in Royal William Yard. The company has a wide range of roles to fill from starter positions as administrators and customer services agents to business intelligence analysts, originations agents, data nalysts and systems analysts, as well as openings in the firm’s marketing department. The company has a training programme led by the Responsible Academy which encourages career progression across the business. Candidates will be supported in getting their professional qualifications as regulated financial advisers where appropriate. Steve Wilkie, executive chairman of Responsible Group, said: “I’m so proud of everything we’ve achieved in Plymouth. We will number over 200 in the city we call home by the time we’ve filled all these positions. “It’s really important to me that we’re not just offering people a job. Fantastic career progression awaits those who join us and we are committed to supporting staff in getting their professional adviser qualifications and encouraging them to move around the business. Many of our new joiners will undoubtedly go on to have long careers in financial services.” Interested candidates can email vacancies@responsible.co.uk for a full list of available roles and an application pack.

Witness appeal after woman is injured in robbery bid

Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted during an attempted robbery in a Plymouth street.

The woman, in her 50s, was walking on Monica Walk in Greenbank when she was approached by a man who tried to steal her handbag. She suffered a head injury after falling to the ground during the struggle for the bag. The man then ran from the scene emptyhanded. Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident just before 6.30pm on Friday January 14. They are also seeking the suspect who is described as white, aged 18-25, and around 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins tall. He was wearing blue jeans, a dark-coloured top with the hood up and a face mask. Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101@dc.police.uk or by telephone on 101, quoting crime reference CR/003954/22.

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Shekinah plan for ambitious development

Plymouth homeless charity Shekinah has announced plans to move from its current base in Millbay to the empty Stonehouse Community Centre in Frederick Street.

The charity, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2022, wants to cover the building into a new type of community centre designed to provide a one-stop shop for a wide range of services for those who need it. The new venture will offer services including skills training, education, employment services and housing advice. It will also provide advice on health promotion and medical support, including an outreach GP service and practice nurse. Mental health support and counselling will also be included as well as a learning exchange. The aim is to have all the services in a safe space and to encourage local people to be part of a project that changes lives. Chief executive John Hamblin said: “While we specialise in helping those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or in temporary accommodation, the centre will not provide residential accommodation. “We want to provide access to services which historically have been difficult for some people to get. Many, many factors can lead to homelessness. We look at what the issues are and work with people to address them. “We think this centre is in a great location – it’s near Devonport and Stonehouse, but not in the city centre. It has some space around it, which gives people more confidence to use it. “We also keen to see people nearby sharing their skills and experiences and are hoping to set up a learning exchange – a friendly safe space where people could learn skills from each other. “We know that giving people four walls and a TV is just not enough. People want a sense of purpose and access to activities and opportunities can be one of the things that provide this.” This move will not only help the charity address problems faced by many individuals and families across the city, it also means moving from Bath Street will enable the regeneration work around Millbay Boulevard to continue. Staff at Shekinah are keen to talk with local residents and work positively with the community and the people attending the centre. Over the coming weeks they will be hosting a number of drop in sessions to hear ideas in more detail, listen to suggestions as well as develop details on plans for a DIY SOS-style community effort to transform the property – under professional supervision. “We are currently in discussions with the council about possible financial support as well as arrangements for taking over the community centre and the form that would take,” added John Hamblin. Council Leader Nick Kelly added: “Shekinah have an incredible track record of changing lives of many Plymouth people who have hit troubled points in their lives. “We are keen to support them where we can. This proposed move will not only mean a building gets a new lease of life, but it means that we can continue with our long term plans to regenerate Millbay. What was once a backwater area is changing. The new boulevard has really opened up this area. There’s a new hotel being built. All this is good for the city, good for its economy and residents.” Shekinah will be holding a drop-in session on January 18, between 6 and 8pm at their Bath Street centre where visitors can chat to staff about the proposals and learn more about the work Shekinah does. For more information please contact Shekinah on reception@ shekinah.co.uk

£750,000 boost for Plymouth Marine Laboratory’s climate research programme

Scientists at Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) are on the cusp of radical advancements in climate science following the announcement of £750,000 of funding from independent grantmaking charity the Wolfson Foundation. The funding is being used to support PML’s multi-million pound ‘Advances in Air-Sea Exchange using Autonomy (ASEauto)’ project which will combine advanced instrumentation designed to study climate-relevant trace gases with a world-leading network of autonomous monitoring platforms including unmanned vessels, robotic submarines and data buoys. The use of these remote technologies, which were launched last year as part of the PMLled SmartSound initiative (with support from the UK Natural Environment Research Council and the European Regional Development Fund), will enable the generation of unprecedented levels of data on the production and consumption of gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, dimethylsulfide and ammonia in the marine environment and their exchange between the ocean and atmosphere. These compounds are important for the climate because they are either greenhouse gases or influence the production and growth of particles in the atmosphere that reflect solar radiation away from the Earth’s surface. Harnessing the latest in marine autonomy, in addition to PML’s established observation platforms (including the Western Channel Observatory and Penlee Point Atmospheric Observatory) and world-class expertise in marine biogeochemistry and air-sea exchange, the ASEauto project is designed to radically improve current understanding and thus the accuracy of climate models. This will improve climate change projections and support the design of vital climate change mitigation and adaption strategies and measures at local, national and international levels. The Wolfson Foundation is committed to ‘improving the civic health of society, mainly through education and research’. Their investment will equip the autonomous platforms with a unique set of instruments including advanced sensors and automated water sampling technology. This, combined with state-of-the-art lab-based instrumentation, will create a unique and world-leading resource for Air-Sea Exchange research and help to further PML’s 30-year legacy at the forefront of ocean/ atmosphere gas exchange studies. Icarus Allen, chief executive of PML said: “We are delighted that the Wolfson Foundation has chosen to support the ASEauto project which will utilise the unique capabilities we have in marine autonomy here in Plymouth. “Marine autonomous platforms are transforming oceanographic research by vastly increasing the frequency and coverage of observations compared with traditional sampling, and by collecting data in undersampled environments and conditions. ASEauto combines autonomous platforms with chemical sensors, samplers and instruments, which will enable us to quantify the fluxes of trace gases in estuarine, coastal, shelf sea and open ocean environments. “It represents a step-change in our capacity to monitor and understand the underlying processes that are critical to our planet’s climate, and indeed human health.” PML’s Air-Sea Exchange team has a strong track record in conducting world-leading science, pioneering new techniques, making novel observations, and generating new insights with many high impact publications on climate-relevant trace gases in the ocean.

6 February 2022

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City College students to benefit from state-of-the-art co-working spaces A new collaboration between community interest company Real Ideas and City College Plymouth will benefit hundreds of students on creative courses, who will be able to take up the chance to work within some of the city’s most inspirational spaces.

This new membership agreement between the two like-minded organisations will provide students with high-quality work experience opportunities and staff will also enjoy the benefits thanks to exclusive access to a variety of workshops and collaborative projects. Under the new membership options, City College students will be able to use a range of facilities that form the Real Ideas campus. These include The Market Hall, a world-class space for digital innovation and learning situated in the heart of Devonport. The Market Hall, which opened in the summer of 2021, is home to the state-ofthe-art immersive dome, a range of flexible co-working and inspiring workspaces, large meeting rooms and event spaces, as well as a café/bar. The students will also have access to a series of specialist creative facilities located at Ocean Studios in the Royal William Yard, with other projects in Devonport and South East Cornwall currently in development. The agreement, which was signed by City College chief executive and principal Jackie Grubb and Real Ideas co-founder and CEO Lindsey Hall. marks the inaugural organisational membership scheme for the extensive Real Ideas campus and benefits programme. Real Ideas has set up the new membership scheme with the view of developing collaborative working spaces that encourage ‘creative collisions’ within shared spaces that will drive forwards inclusivity and social mobility. Real Ideas hopes that collaborating with the College in this way will enhance the student experience by promoting work readiness through personal and professional development opportunities. Jackie Grubb, said: “This is a very exciting partnership for the College, working with a like-minded organisation that seeks to improve the opportunities available to the people of Plymouth.

Jackie Grubb of City College (left) and Lindsay Hall of Real Ideas pictured after signing the new agreement

“With digital skills now threading across our curriculum, coupled with the cuttingedge facilities at Market Hall and Ocean Studios, we will be providing our students with the higher digital skills that are required by employers. Our employer collaboration will also extend into digital product development and innovation being included in our training modules; essential elements as we continue to develop and use immersive technology as a teaching tool. “Continuing to improve the experience of our students, building their confidence and preparing them for life beyond education, as well as promoting inclusivity and driving forward social mobility, will allow us to develop the skilled employees required by our city to prosper.” Lindsey Hall, CEO of Real Ideas, said: “Our work creating our co-working and membership spaces within our campus of stunning buildings really is a game-changer in a whole host of ways. Mixing our current freelancer, business and social enterprise membership with the students and staff from City College absolutely increases the opportunities for all of us. “With this new, extended membership we’re creating an exciting new ‘mixing bowl’

in terms of places and spaces for jobs, research, development, exploration, learning, collaboration, economic development, and secondary economic benefits, too. “Our co-working spaces aren’t just about us providing a cool and funky backdrop for freelancers, businesses, and now students and lecturers, to use. Our co-working and membership programme is about us creating a fairer world that works for everyone; bringing together the skills and experiences of diverse people is essential for socially and economically prosperous communities and our spaces generate agency, choice and an equitable power that is vital for local communities and individuals. “We need liveable places that value and meet the needs of everyone and our new arrangement with City College brings a refreshing new youthful injection of the next generation of young talent into the mix on a daily basis.” In addition to the new membership agreement, City College and Real Ideas aim to work together in a long-term strategic partnership that maximises mutual benefits and supports the growth of Devonport for the local community and the wider economy of Plymouth.

New toilets on Hoe Promenade now open The toilets on the Hoe Promenade are now open.

The new facilities have been constructed to look the same as the old building by replicating the original features, including Art-Deco style circular mouldings on the roof and bedevilled door frames. The old toilet building had structural issues and it was more cost effective to demolish and rebuild. Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council said: “Getting our waterfront ship-shape has been a priority for this administration, I want residents to be proud of our city. “These modernised toilets, along with the other refurbishments to this area really highlight how grand Plymouth Hoe is. “I am also delighted that these facilities are accessible for all and will help ensure that everyone is able to enjoy our waterfront.” The construction has seen six new unisex public toilets built, with one additional accessible toilet and large, accessible changing room. This means the new facilities can be used safely and comfortably by all people with disabilities. A changing facility offers the space and equipment to ensure they can be used by

people with profound learning difficulties or other disabilities that limit mobility, as well as accommodating carers. Equipment within these toilets includes a height adjustable shower table, a height adjustable wash basin, and an accessible toilet with adaptive flushes. These toilets are scheduled to open and close

to avoid antisocial behaviour and also have card readers to allow you to spend a penny even without spare change. The toilets will be open 7.30am to 6pm from October to Easter, and 7.30am to 9pm Easter to September. As part of the refit a new water bottle filler has also been installed at the entrance of the path to the toilets on the Promenade.

February 2022

@PlymChronicle

Top award for city care home A Plymouth care home has scooped a top national award.

Marie-Claire Foale, registered manager at Seymour Court is pictured in the centre receiving the award

Seymour Court Nursing and Care Home won the Dignity and Respect Care Home of the year award at the 23rd National Care Awards 2021. The National Care Awards are an annual event organised by Caring Times to celebrate the very best people in the long-term care sector, by highlighting excellence and rewarding those who work tirelessly to provide consistently outstanding care. They recognise staff at all levels across the care sector who work tirelessly to provide consistently outstanding care. From newcomers just starting their care career to long-serving carers who have dedicated a significant portion of their life to making a difference. The Dignity and Respect Care Home of the year award is one of the most prestigious and highlights the outstanding level of care, respect and compassion that patients will receive at the home. Marie-Claire Foale, registered manager of Seymour Court said: “In a very challenging and anxious year, it was truly wonderful to win something so prestigious, especially with competition such as a hospice, however, our staff thoroughly deserve it and I am over the moon to win for the city of Plymouth which is a city I am immensely proud to call home.”

Philip Gerry, director of Seymour Court said: “To be recognised nationally for this particular award is testament to all the hard work and dedication all our staff strive to deliver to the care of their residents. Dignity and Respect sit at the heart of all that we do and undoubtedly our entire team should be very proud of this achievement.” The council’s Quality Assurance and Improvement team work closely with all Plymouth’s care homes monitoring and supporting the improvement of the quality of care provided in the independent care home sector. Councillor Patrick Nicholson deputy leader of Plymouth City Council and Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “I’m absolutely delighted that everyone at Seymour Court has been recognised for this prestigious award. To be shortlisted nationally is a huge achievement. Adult social care is flourishing in Plymouth and there are some fantastic innovative people working in our care homes and this award describes Plymouth as the compassionate City, we are.” This isn’t the first award the home has been recognised for. They also recently won the Palliative Care Award for the southwest at the Great British Care Awards and will now go forward to the national finals in March 2022.

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Bishop Nick is to retire in August

The Bishop of Plymouth, the Right Reverend Nicholas McKinnel, is to retire in August.

Bishop Nick, who is married to Jan and has four children and nine grandchildren, will be 68 and has been Bishop of Plymouth since 2015. He said: “After 42 years of ordained ministry, now seems a good time to hand over my responsibilities and to have more time for the family and other interests. “It has been a privilege to serve in this Diocese as a bishop for the last ten years and I would like to thank my fellow clergy and everyone in our diocese for their support, prayers and friendship.” The Bishop of Exeter, the Right Reverend Robert Atwell, said: “Bishop Nick has been a superb colleague whose gentle wisdom and big pastoral heart have won him affection and respect across the county. “He brings to his work his immense knowledge of people and places, his love of Devon and his faith in Christ. We wish him well in his retirement and we are glad that he is going to stay in Devon.” Bishop Nick grew up in Devon and, after studying law and working for a development agency, was ordained in 1980. He served his early ministry in London and Liverpool before returning to Devon in 1987 to become the Rector of Hatherleigh, Meeth, Exbourne and Jacobstowe. From 1994 to 2012 he led St Andrew’s, the Minster church of Plymouth. He was consecrated as Bishop of Crediton in 2012, before moving to become Bishop of Plymouth in 2015, with responsibility for parishes across Dartmoor, Torbay and West Devon as well as the city itself. Following his retirement, Bishop Nick has been nominated to be the High Sheriff of Devon in 2023.

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8 February 2022

@PlymChronicle

Quest for 17th century relics begins at Plymouth’s first navy supply yard Work begins on beautiful blossom project at Devil’s Point Plans for Plymouth’s new blossom garden at Devil’s Point have been finalised and work is now underway.

In 2021, Plymouth was selected as a partner in the National Trust’s Blossom Together initiative – a multi-year programme that aims to get the UK celebrating its blossom season and help people connect with nature. Devil’s Point was chosen as Plymouth’s blossom site in recognition of its unique marine and green environment, while funding is from the People’s Postcode Lottery. Now, having consulted with residents and businesses over the summer, an exciting new, community-informed design has been unveiled. With new trees that will blossom in a spectrum of colours as well as enhanced seating and recreation space, the new area will certainly be an improvement on the existing, empty tarmacked space. Work on the site has now started with the aim to be complete by early Spring. It will be guided by specialist nature and heritage teams to ensure that the improvements are sensitive to wildlife and the history of this special place. Councillor Patrick Nicholson, deputy leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “These wonderful designs surpass what were already positive expectations for this lovely project. “I’m so glad that through community consultation, we’ve been able to create a space that is meaningful and unique to the local community, as well as being welcoming to the many visitors that the site greets daily - situated as it is along the South West Coast Path.” Toby Fox, assistant director for Devon at the National Trust, added: “We are delighted to be working with Plymouth City Council to create this new blossom garden at Devil’s Point. “Bringing more blossom to cities can help more people connect with nature and beauty wherever they are, and just 20 minutes spent dwelling on nature can improve your mood. We are working with partners to give more people the chance to celebrate and experience the beauty of spring blossom each year.” Nathan Cornish, director of Urban Splash, owners of the nearby Royal William Yard, said: “The Blossom garden will be a great addition to the South West Coast Path providing a beautiful addition to Devil’s Point and link to the Royal William yard via the Stairway to Devon. “The colour and joy of this scheme will provide further interest to this part of Plymouth where people can come to experience both the beautiful historic buildings and walkways beside the unique waters that surround Devil’s Point and Royal William Yard.” More information on the national blossom project can be found at: www. nationaltrust.org.uk/features/helpingcommunities-blossom

Archaeologists are undertaking a major investigation that could reveal early evidence of Plymouth’s status as an epicentre of global trade.

Experts from the University of Plymouth and Plymouth Archaeology Society are carrying out excavations on part of the earliest Victualling Yard for the Royal Navy in Plymouth, sited at Commercial Wharf to the south of the Barbican. The area was used for nearly 200 years to supply the Navy with bread, biscuits and beef until those operations moved to Royal William Yard in the 19th century. Conservation work on the quay wall at Commercial Wharf, currently being undertaken by JNE Construction Ltd on behalf of Plymouth City Council, has revealed important 17th century material. This has included pottery and clay pipes dating to the second half of the 17th century from Italy, Iberia, France, Holland and the Rhineland, as well as English pottery from North Devon and Somerset. Archaeologists have also found tableware, jars, a candlestick and a strange unglazed shard that was probably part of a Spanish wine amphorae or olive oil jar, never before seen in Plymouth. They hope to uncover more such items during their investigation, with the possibility of also finding earlier items from around the time of the Mayflower’s departure from the city. University of Plymouth maritime archaeologist Martin Read, chairman of the Plymouth Archaeology Society, will be directing the work

Commercial Wharf was the earliest Victualling Yard for the Royal Navy in Plymouth Photo: Courtesy of Plymouth Archaeology Society

A mixture of English and continental ceramics, including pieces from North Devon and Somerset Photo: Courtesy of Plymouth Archaeology Society

with a team based at the Boathouse Café. He said: “Plymouth has always had a much higher proportion of imported pottery from southern Europe and the Mediterranean than elsewhere. It was probably brought back by fishermen after selling their salted cod, with something like 40 per cent of the ceramics recovered in Plymouth from this time having been imported. This is an exciting opportunity to examine part of an early Victualling Yard. There are very few of these sites that have not been later redeveloped and built over, so the area is of international importance.” Plymouth has been used as a Royal Navy base for centuries, but initially had no dedicated facilities for supplying the Navy. This changed during the Commonwealth

when the Lambhay was chosen for the earliest Victualling Yard in the 1650s. Phoenix Wharf was built at this time, towards the southern end of the present Commercial Wharf, while at the northern end of the wharf, the quay had been built by 1665. After the opening of the Dockyard in 1693, the Lambhay was considered in the wrong place to easily supply the Navy and was eventually moved to the more convenient Royal William Yard in the 1830s. The old yard was then sold for commercial uses, including the making of biscuits and an Embarkation Depot, though the buildings were retained. The buildings on the wharf were demolished in the 1930s when the road behind was widened, during the building of Madiera Road around the Citadel.

Navy’s Devonport-based ice ship HMS Protector completes first Antarctic mission of the season The Navy’s sole Antarctic research ship has completed her first stint of the year around the frozen continent – which has revealed the impact of global warning.

Devonport-based HMS Protector is on a fiveyear mission to support international research into wildlife, the changing climate and shifting waters of Antarctica and upholding the UK’s longstanding commitment to the region. The icebreaker has three concerted ‘work periods’ planned around the Antarctic Peninsula before autumn descends on the region and rules out her moving safely around numerous bases and through icy waters. Her first stint which spanned the festive season into the first days of 2022 started with work around the South Sandwich Islands to support research into the penguin populace. From there the distinctive red-white survey ship moved deeper into the Antarctic region to continue her scientific mission in some of the bleakest, most remote islands on the planet. Naval charts of some of the waters around islands such as Southern Thule and the Cook Islands have not been updated in nearly a century – without any of the highly-accurate sensors and technology fitted to Protector herself or her small survey boats. The challenge was made all the greater by unfavourable sea conditions and grounded icebergs, forcing Protector to spend two days sheltering inside a caldera – the hollowed-out innards of a volcano – waiting for a weather window to put a landing party ashore. Whilst there the ship surveyed an uncharted portion on the west coast of Cook – the eastern part of the two islands forming the caldera – as her survey motorboat surveyed the east coast of Thule under the lee of glacial cliffs. After crossing another 600 miles of the Scotia Sea – described by crew as ‘lively’ –the ship got stuck into to work in the South Orkneys, another

far-flung, uninhabited British archipelago on the fringe of Antarctica. Sunshine Glacier on Coronation Island – roughly 750 miles from the Falklands and 350 from the Antarctic Peninsula – has retreated three quarters of a mile over the past 30 years as a result of global warming. In doing so, it’s revealed uncharted waters in what is dubbed ‘Iceberg Bay’ for Protector to survey while the weather abated sufficiently for the ship to scan the waters off the neighbouring island of Signy and found a dangerous shoal on the approach to Cummings Cove, having separately proved the presence of a dangerous rock in Borge Bay.

Supporting the work of the British Antarctic Survey, Protector’s Commanding Officer Captain Michael Wood led a team landing on Signy to mark the beginning of the ‘summer season’; the research station is only occupied in the austral summer. Sailors found no damage had been caused to the base by the harsh weather over the winter, ready for scientists to move into study penguins, petrels and the island’s rich biodiversity. Signy was the first in a series of bases and research centres the ship has called in on: Base Y (Horseshoe Island) built in 1955 and abandoned five years later, so it’s a time capsule of a bygone era of Antarctic exploration; the large BAS facility at Rothera for Christmas, where Covid precautions meant the sailors couldn’t mix with the scientists to join in festivities and the Argentinian research base at San Martin. In the Lemaire Channel there was the opportunity for the 70 sailors and Royal Marines to get their cameras out. Despite near-perfect weather for the passage, Protector found navigating the strait tricky with significant concentrations of ice and icebergs which almost completely blocked the southern entrance. Deception Island – a flooded caldera of a still-active volcano – provided more photo opportunities and visits led by Protector’s secondin-command Commander Thomas Boeckx to Spanish and Argentine bases brought the curtain down on the first work period of the Antarctic summer and Protector headed back to the Falklands to restock before returning to the snow and ice. “We’ve completed the first of our three work packages as part of Operation Austral and exceeded all the objectives we set by some measure. It’s been a far-flung, survey-intense and photographic-rich circumnavigation of UK territories in the Scotia Sea,” said Captain Wood.

February 2022

@PlymChronicle

Marbles lost and found

– the mental health website created by a Mutley woman which is attracting a huge following A website launched three years ago by a Plymouth woman which provides a wide range of information, advice, guidance and support on mental health issues is attracting a huge following - even from students at an American university.

Nicky Nurrish, who is 44, was diagnosed with Bipolar Type 2 when she was in her thirties and for many years she struggled with the condition, the system and simply living her life. Nicky, who lives in Mutley, said: “Let down and unsupported by the system I started doing my own research into Bipolar and mental health issues. I started talking to liked minded people and it was obvious more education on awareness, wellbeing and crisis support was needed but most of all people did not know where to go to find help!” She decided to create a website - memorably called Marbles Lost and Found - built for those touched by mental health issues that incorporated everything people needed to know about mental health awareness, support and wellbeing, as well as breaking down the stigma of mental health in a safe, nonjudgemental place. Nicky, who is a support work for disabled adults at Dame Hannahs charity in Ivybridge, said: “Marbles has been live for three years now and has grown massively. It is used by Livewell South West, the police, local support groups and is also used as a training tool at Exeter University.” And Nicky was delighted when a student at Michigan University came across the Marbles website, loved it and showed it to fellow students and now has a significant following. She was then contacted by a couple of students who asked if she would be interested in doing a talk for some of the students. “It was amazing having a Zoom discussion with people all the way across the pond and a great way to discover what people like about the site, which is its honesty, mass of information, crisis support and ease of navigation,” said Nicky. She is hoping to get some of the students on board to write blogs for the website. “Marbles speaks to people universally as it is all about living your life with a mental health issue and knowing that you have support

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Nicky Nurrish

wherever you may be,” she added. Nicky has also just started to run a Marbles support group at the Moments Café in the city centre every second Tuesday of the month, which she maintains is different to other support groups. “This group is not only an opportunity to feel supported and listened to, but we are also planning to include talks from professionals, other groups, wellbeing sessions and group activities – all built on what the group wants to do alongside wellbeing tips and tools, coping mechanisms and support from those who ‘get it.’ “Marbles is all about living your life with a mental health condition, learning to accept that we are more than our mental illness! Using the internet and social media for awareness and support, not being afraid to speak up or reach out, knowing that you are not alone, and it is ok not to be ok,” said Nicky. “I have created and run Marbles on my own, built through many bipolar mood swings! I work closely with those who struggle, interact with other organisations, listen to what people want which is also what

makes Marbles unique as it grows with the help of others. “People can ask me to add information to the website, write blogs or vlogs and offer free wellbeing advice. The website is packed with help from many other people who understand the individual journey involved and will just continue to grow and add helpful resources and support. “We need to deal with mental health issues differently, it is time for change regarding how we support those who are struggling or caring for another, we need choices, to be heard, awareness but most of all remembering that we are warriors in this fight.” There is also a Marbles page on Facebook which has rapidly attracted nearly 3,000 followers with lots of engagement from visitors to the page. Meanwhile a special gig is being held at The Junction on Mutley Plain on February 12 to raise funds for the Marbles, with nine local bands performing. For more information go to www. marbleslostandfound.co.uk or visit the Marbles page on Facebook.

MAJOR PAY BOOST FOR PLYMOUTH COUNCIL DRIVERS Refuse drivers employed by Plymouth City Council have won a big pay rise following a dispute with their employer.

Members of the GMB Union working in refuse are celebrating after the council agreed a 12.6 percent pay rise for HGV drivers working for the council. This will see some hard pressed council staff earn almost an extra £3000 a year. The move comes as demand for HGV drivers skyrocketed in recent months, with GMB telling the council to act quickly or lose experienced drivers to other professions. The union believes that the award means that ‘members

are finally being paid a fair rate’ and that the council’s speed in responding means there will be fewer extra pressures on Plymouth’s refuse and waste service in the coming weeks. Matt Roberts, GMB organiser said: “With demand for HGV drivers going through the roof, the council had to move quick or lose experienced drivers to other roles. HGV drivers have been undervalued for too long, and its great that now our members are being paid a fair rate for highly skilled work. “This move will mean that is no extra pressure put on the refuse service in the coming months. It’s another example of where a unionised workforce is good for the Employer and employee, a win, win.”

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10 February 2022

A local charity occupying a special place in the heart of the community is getting ready to mark a special milestone this year. On January 25 2022, it will be 40 years since St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth welcomed its first patients.

St Luke’s heralded the arrival of a completely new concept for the city – specialist care for terminally ill people as in-patients in a homefrom-home environment, rather than in hospital, to ensure their comfort and dignity at the end of their lives. From this, grew the St Luke’s of today, looking after the majority of its patients at home and at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, with only those with the most complex symptoms needing admission to Turnchapel. What has not changed since its beginnings though, is the charity’s need to rely on support from individuals and businesses in the community to keep providing its specialist services at no cost to patients or their families. That’s why, as well as reflecting on four decades of compassionate care that has touched the lives of so many, St Luke’s is using its 40th anniversary to express heartfelt thanks to all its supporters for their ceaseless volunteering and fundraising, plus the legacies that play such an important part in helping the charity plan for its future.

Celebrating four @PlymChronicle

by the Rev John Watson of St Andrew’s Church in Plymouth grew to become what St Luke’s is today, the main provider of end of life care for the city and its surroundings areas, looking after around 300 patients on any one day. “Quite simply though, we would never have come into existence – let alone still be helping local families four decades on – without the unstinting support we receive from the community around us. “All who give to the hospice, whether as volunteers or through donations and fundraising, do so in the knowledge that they are supporting something of priceless value, the highly skilled, compassionate care people need at the end of their lives so that they can feel as at ease as possible and make precious memories with loved ones. “A huge thank-you to all our supporters. Please keep doing what you do because we are going to need you more than ever as we strive to meet the increasing demand on our services.”

St Luke’s at home nurses

From participating in its weekly lottery to donating to its charity shops and taking on sponsored challenges like Midnight Walk and Men’s Day Out, such commitment from the community has enabled

St Luke’s to survive despite the ever-increasing costs of running its 24-hour service 365 days a year. In addition to expert, hands-on medical care, its teams provide not only practical advice to patients and their families but vital emotional support, too - warmth, sensitivity and kindness that make an important difference to them at the most difficult time of their lives. Chief executive of St Luke’s, Steve Statham, (pictured left) said: “What started in the early 1980s as the idea of a small group of parishioners led

Key statistics – National It is predicted that the number of people requiring palliative care will increase by 42% by 2040. Key statistics – Local We are an ageing population. The number of people aged over 85 years in Devon will increase by 29% by 2025. In the last six years demand for St Luke’s care has increased by 37%. Over 50% of hospice care is delivered at home with the remaining in hospital. Only 5% of care is delivered in a traditional hospice building.

St Luke’s nurse at Derriford

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r decades of care @PlymChronicle

From its humble beginnings in a converted suburban house to the widely known and greatly respected service it provides today, it is hard to imagine the community without St Luke’s. Some of the innovators from its early days, who were central to shaping the high-calibre local hospice care share their reflections.

St Luke’s urgent care service

Once they realised the work that was being done, though, we had their full support. Some of the consultants and GPs who lived in the area even offered to include the hospice when they were ‘on call’ overnight. They did this free of charge to St Luke’s, which saved us a tremendous amount of money. “It was exciting when the first patients arrived at Syrena House in Plymstock, but we quickly ran out of space and needed an extension so that we could accommodate three more patients, making ten in all. And the demand did not stop there! “When the city council granted St Luke’s the land for the specialist unit at Turnchapel, we could all see the potential, though the area was a mass of brambles at the time. Then there was the ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign to raise money for the building, which attracted so much support. “People were donating good-quality clothing for us to sell, too, which helped raise more funds. That’s what led to the opening of the first St Luke’s charity shop, which was in New George Street. It went from there and we never looked back!” Sally Taylor, chief executive from 1994 to 2015

Dr Sheila Cassidy, medical director from 1981 to 1991 For many, Dr Sheila Cassidy is the name most synonymous with the history of St Luke’s. A trained doctor with experience in looking after people with cancer, she was appointed its first medical director in 1981, spending the next ten years leading the small team devoted to looking after local people with terminal illness as inpatients at Syrena House in Plymstock. This was the large house that – thanks to huge community spirit – had been purchased and converted to enable the new concept of specialised, 24-hour care for patients in a safe yet homely environment. Building on her medical knowledge, and learning as she went, Sheila observed the marked difference bespoke, holistic care made to the quality of these patients’ lives. Inspired to advocate for the hospice movement, she gave lectures to fellow healthcare professionals locally and nationally as well as overseas, combining long shifts at the hospice with tireless campaigning so that organisations far and wide got to hear about the pioneering work of St Luke’s and were motivated to follow its example. Sheila worked with St Luke’s for ten years before moving to Derriford Hospital, joining the radiotherapy department and setting up the Mustard Tree drop-in centre for people receiving cancer treatment. She said: “As a young doctor based at the radiotherapy department at Freedom Fields Hospital in Plymouth, I came to realise dying people need more than just treatment for their physical symptoms. Since I lived at the hospital and had free time in the evenings, I’d sit and hold their hands, just listening and asking questions. I saw the difference it made to them to be accepted how they were, whatever they were feeling. “Our work at Syrena House was palliative care plus psychotherapy. It was highly skilled as well as different. Whereas, traditionally, hospital doctors had shielded terminally ill people from the reality of their prognosis, our approach was to work with the truth, coupled with kindness. Once we established that they really were in the last stages of their life, we helped them understand what was happening to them and gradually come to a place of acceptance. “Families saw what we were doing and word spread, driving up support for all the fundraising needed to keep the hospice going. “All of us working there were like a family. I was close to everyone, from the nurses to the office and kitchen staff. We were a community, putting patients and their families at ease, despite our very cramped quarters. “The move to the purpose-built unit at Turnchapel doubled our beds to 20. We had loads more space and extra nurses, too, but though it was larger, it was no less loving. I feel very proud to have been part of the hospice. Being medical director was something I just got on with because

February 2022

that was my work, but I do realise what a great privilege that was.”

Dr Mary Nugent, medical director of St Luke’s from 1985 to 2013 She said: “Very early on in my career in general practice, I was asked to provide cover at St Luke’s, which was still very new. As a young doctor, I could barely even spell palliative care so I was in at the deep end, and that’s how my journey with the hospice began. “I found my niche at the hospice because we had the time to love and look after our patients. The team camaraderie was tremendous, too. We were friends working together, all to help people who were in the last stages of life. I was quickly building on my basic medical knowledge, learning about the anatomy of being very sick and the effects and benefits of new drugs, then taking to the road to teach young doctors around the country about our pioneering work. “When the move to Turnchapel came, it was a joy. Twenty beds, plenty of bathrooms and wonderful new gadgets. We created the very best hospice environment we could, enabling people with terminal illness to be themselves and be looked after as themselves. “There was great excitement when Prince Charles performed the official opening, in 1988, with crowds gathering outside the building all waving their flags. He was well informed about the hospice movement and generous in his attitude, spending time talking to patients, volunteers and staff. It was such a great privilege to look after the many other people who needed our care.” Rosie Morgan, nursing sister and matron from 1982 to 2010

Arriving in Devon as a nursing sister, Rosie Morgan joined St Luke’s at its beginning and went on to become matron of the hospice, remaining with the charity for 28 years. She said: “I always

thought the hospice concept was something I’d like to explore. Generally speaking, in those days I felt that terminally ill patients needed more care than was possible in a busy hospital setting. They still needed to be thought of as people – people with families, careers and hobbies, not just as an ill or dying patient. “We were inspired by St Christopher’s Hospice in London, and the books of its founder Cecily Saunders were our blueprint. Most of our training was gained working alongside Sheila Cassidy, who was so gifted in speaking to hospital consultants to share our vision of how we thought death and dying should be. She knew just how to talk to lay people about it, too, gathering their support. “When St Luke’s opened, we had very little money to keep running, and at one point only enough reserves to pay the salaries. Our first matron, Valerie Oliver, worked tirelessly to raise awareness of hospice care, giving talks to public and professional groups most evenings and weekends. This resulted in funds coming so that we remained solvent. “Nothing was too much trouble if it helped the patients, and that’s still the same at St Luke’s today. I remember Dr Mary somehow arranging for a helicopter to be scrambled at very short notice when a lady from Wales, who was very poorly, said how she longed to die in her homeland. “Much may have changed over the years but the community’s support for St Luke’s is as strong as ever, and the team’s commitment to giving superb care never wavers.” Christine Costin, medical secretary from 1982 to 2010

Having been with the charity from the start as its volunteer co-ordinator, Christine Costin went on to become its medical secretary. She said: “Everyone was just so happy and proud to be working for St Luke’s, and it was very humbling seeing it grow from the seed of an idea to being overwhelmed with volunteers who wanted to help. Word spread quickly, partly because Sheila, who already had a media profile, was writing about what we were doing as well as giving presentations. “While most in the community thought the hospice was a marvellous development and embraced it, some took a while to be convinced.

“When I took the helm at St Luke’s I could see what a fantastic job everyone was doing for patients and their families. In getting to know how things worked, I recognised how important it would be for St Luke’s to evolve to keep pace with the changing needs of the people we served. “We expanded to include lymphoedema care and occupational therapy, but it was becoming increasingly clear that we really needed to think of patients as patients even after they returned home because we’d got their symptoms under control and they were feeling better, not just while they were at Turnchapel. “Taking a more joined-up approach would be essential if we were going to ensure that whether a patient was at home, in hospital or at St Luke’s specialist unit, their care was well co-ordinated as well as bespoke. This idea was new though, and would never succeed unless I could secure the full co-operation of local GPs, the hospital and community services to work with us. “It took time but thankfully, there were those who understood the value of what we were trying to achieve. What gradually emerged by the late 90s was the one-system approach that continues to benefit people with terminal illness today and has been replicated across the country. I feel very proud of that. “I know people tend to think that all St Luke’s patients receive their care at Turnchapel because it’s such a well-recognised, long-standing facility, but these days 95 per cent are looked after by the charity’s team at home or in hospital, with only those with the most complex symptoms needing to be admitted to the specialist unit. “There’s another common misconception, too. I was often asked how I coped with working somewhere ‘so depressing’ and I’d always say, it’s not! Sad at times, of course, but if you know someone’s passing and their family’s experience of that has been better because you have helped make it so, that has got to be a good thing. The staff and volunteers are upbeat and incredibly kind, too, organising weddings for patients and visits from much-loved pets. “Everyone at St Luke’s – whatever their role – is making a difference. It’s not just one, it’s a team, working together to make sure people are looked after really well at the end of their lives.”

12 February 2022

Plymouth families to receive early help and support as new partnership is launched in city A new ten-year partnership to help Plymouth families receive early help and support in their communities is being launched.

Plymouth City Council is working closely with a group of local partners including; Livewell Southwest, Action for Children, LARK Children’s Centre, Harbour Centre and Hamoaze House to form a new Early Help Partnership. The newly formed partnership will bring together commissioned services like Children’s Centres and young carers support with Council services such as Targeted Support. They will work together to make sure that key services are available in the community giving families the direct help they need, whether that’s a bit of advice or more intensive one to one support over a longer period of time. Early help services aim to help families to be able to manage and not need more intensive services such as support from social workers. This is all part of a national programme for all areas to set up Family Hubs for families with children aged 0 to 19 and Plymouth has taken a major step to getting started with the launch of the new partnership. Family Hubs will provide safe places for families to meet, socialise and get support, from before their children are born, through all the ages and stages of school life and into their late teens. The Hubs will help families to have fun but also be able to talk to experts about things that are worrying them about their child’s development. Councillor Dave Downie, Cabinet member for Education, Skills, Children and Young People, said: “The move towards Family Hubs is something very different for the way we organise our services for children, young people and families in Plymouth. “We want to look at all our early help resources and think together about how we can use it to have the best possible impact for children and their families. “We hope that the partnership will aim to get to the heart of the issues that really matter to families, builds on their strengths, and try and design solutions to them, whether that’s a small project to try using a building differently in a local area, or something that covers the whole city.” Livewell Southwest acting chief executive, Michelle Thomas, said: “On behalf of all of the partners we are delighted to have the opportunity to show the people of Plymouth how focused we are on delivering the highest quality early help and family hubs. “We put children, young people and families at the heart of everything we do and have committed to involving them in the design of our early help and family hub services. “We recognise that our partnership is only a small part of the whole system required to support children, young people and families but effective early intervention can improve children’s wellbeing, educational attainment and life chances, reduce family poverty, improve mental health and lead to lower crime, unemployment and other negative outcomes for society. The power of early intervention is huge.” The council has carried out a procurement process based on learning from two years of talking to families and professionals about what works well at the moment and what needs to change to help families to stay well and happy together. The contract is being awarded to the Early help Partnership, which will start working together with the council formally from January 2022.

12 February 2022

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Primary pupils meet astronaut Tim Peake Four lucky primary school pupils have met British astronaut Tim Peake after taking part in a competition led by the University of Plymouth.

The ‘Out of this World’ competition asked students to draw Tim’s space diet, create a holiday brochure for an exoplanet, or design a space station, with four winners chosen for their creativity and originality. The initiative was part of the Children’s University (CU) programme – a national scheme where primary children are encouraged to attend university and extra-curricular events, which they chart through a passport to learning. The University of Plymouth hosts CU alongside its outreach work, with the winners chosen from schools across in Devon and Cornwall. Two of the lucky quartet were Oak Conway from Plymouth College and Blake Canty from Carbeile Junior School in Torpoint who designed a holiday brochure and an exoplanet. The other winners were from Kingsbridge and Liskeard. The winners and guests met Tim at his recent show ‘Tim Peake: My Journey to Space’ at Plymouth Pavilions. Tim said: “Every single astronaut or scientist of any kind started out as a school pupil with aspirations, so to meet these children and hear about their designs has been brilliant. “Outreach initiatives and competitions like

Oak Conway from Plymouth College (left) and Blake Canty from Carbeile Junior School, Torpoint (second left) pictured with astronaut Tim Peake

this one run by the University of Plymouth are so important for inspiring the next generation, and I’ve no doubt that these children will go on to achieve amazing things.” Martin Lavelle, associate head of the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics at the University, and a theoretical physicist who

Leading environmentalist appointed as head of the National Marine Park An environmentalist with an outstanding track record of leading nature and conservation organisations will be at the helm of the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

communities involved with the Sound • Increase access to our heritage so everyone can enjoy the benefits • Provide new employment opportunities and career pathways in sustainable future ocean jobs • Position Plymouth as a UK top day-visitor Elaine Hayes has been appointed interim chief destination executive of the UK’s first ever National Marine Park. • Champion health and wellbeing with a new She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and generation of engaged volunteers, communities and experience working across the charity, government and the business sectors, both for conservation and champions. • Support the positive transition to net zero the marine environment. carbon by 2030. She said: “This is my dream job. It is the The interim chief executive will guide the NMP opportunity of a lifetime to use all my knowledge into being a legal entity in its own right as well and expertise to bring about this country’s first as further develop relationships with over 100 ever Marine Park, here in the Ocean City. This is a organisations involved in the Sound and establish a park for the people where they can be involved in marine parks operating model. shaping and improving the marine Professor Judith Petts CBE, environment for themselves and Vice-Chancellor of the University of future generations.” Plymouth, said: “The National Marine Elaine’s career has seen her Park should bring people together to involved in the development of marine enhance the economic, environmental legislation to protect the sea. She and social values of Plymouth Sound. successfully led the development of It is a fantastic opportunity to connect the Devon & Severn IFCA as chair for society and the sea. The challenge will eight years and as the former chair be how to effectively enhance one of Seafish – the Sea Fish Industry aspect without adversely affecting Authority – she is acutely aware of another in a sustainable way, and the challenges fishing ports such as Elaine Hayes navigating that course will require knowledge and Plymouth face. understanding from a range of perspectives. We are Elaine has managed North Devon Area of delighted to be welcoming Elaine as the new CEO Outstanding Natural Beauty team and has been a and look forward to working with her.” special advisor to the Blackdown Hills for the last Earlier this year the Council’s NMP project team six years so is well versed in caring for protected outlined its ambition to create five ‘gateways’ to the landscapes. park, each with a particular focus that will inspire Elaine said: “Key for me is instilling a love of the more people to explore, connect and enjoy the sea. sea in everyone. You can’t expect people to protect They include: an environment they don’t love. The sheer scale of • Tinside – for health and wellbeing activities ambition all tied up in the National Marine Park is • National Marine Aquarium – a hub for nature hugely exciting for me and I can’t wait to get stuck and the environment in.” • Mountbatten – active recreation Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “We are pleased • Mount Edgcumbe – learning about the Sound’s to welcome Elaine on board. The vast breadth and epic history including over 600 wrecks that lie range of experience Elaine brings to this exciting beneath the waves and pivotal role will enable significant progress • Smart Sound – digital harnessing the power of to be achieved over the next couple of years and the latest digital technology commence the delivery of our aspirations for our Big conversations are in the pipeline over the National Marine Park.” next two years with a full engagement programme The ‘Park in the Sea’ aims to: being developed to ensure everyone has their • Support the ongoing enhancement of our world say in what they would like to see as part of the class natural environment and heritage landscape National Marine Park. • Get the entire city and surrounding

designed the questions for the competition, said: “We were blown away by the entries we received and the imagination and effort put in to every single one. Thank you to everyone who took part, and especially Tim for making it an incredible experience for each of the winners to remember.” Ruth Bennett, education liaison and outreach manager at the University of Plymouth, added: “Research has shown that by engaging with young children early, universities can raise children’s aspirations to go into higher education – and we’re really proud of the work taking place to make that happen.”

Sight loss charities come together to launch Take on 250 fundraising effort Marking the start to a new year with an exciting new challenge, Improving Lives Plymouth Sensory Solutions service has launched a virtual fundraiser, Take on 250.

Every day in the UK 250 people begin to lose their sight, and to help spread awareness, Improving Lives Plymouth are collaborating with 36 other sight loss charities to invite people to Take on 250. The challenge takes place during the whole of January 2022, and people can take part individually or as a team. Participants can choose any activity, whether it be baking, knitting, running, walking, or dancing and complete 250 minutes, 250 laps, or 250 repetitions – the choice is up to the individual or team, including their fundraising target. Funds raised for Improving Lives Plymouth will benefit individuals with sight loss through activities delivered by the Sensory Solutions team. Julie Williams, Sensory Solutions manager said: “We’re excited to announce the launch of Take on 250 alongside our friends in the sight loss sector for 2022. The last two years have been a rollercoaster for everyone and particularly for blind and partially sighted people. So, let’s begin 2022 with a fresh start. “If you’re up for a challenge, why not join us and Take on 250 for Sensory Solutions, Improving Lives Plymouth to make a big difference to people living with sight loss in the UK.” For more information on how to sign up to the virtual fundraiser for free, visit: www. justgiving.com/campaign/ilptakeon250

February 2022 13

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Petition calls for improved lighting in Plymouth parks Public concern over poor lighting in many of the city’s parks has prompted a Plymouth women’s safety campaigner to launch a petition calling on the council to urgently tackle the problem.

Charlotte Holloway says that, following the tragic murder of Bobbi-Anne McLeod, hundreds of women from across Plymouth have shared their experiences of violence against women with her and one issue which has come up time and time again is poor lighting. “There’s much more that needs to be done to keep women and girls safe in our city beyond park lighting, but this is a clear area where Plymouth City Council can make a difference now,” said Ms Holloway, women’s safety campaigner and Labour Candidate for Drake ward. “The council’s new commission on this subject won’t even

Campaigner Charlotte Holloway pictured on an unlit path in Central Park

report until March and given the strength of feeling across the city, women want to see greater urgency and action from our city’s leaders. “So we are calling on the council to improve park lighting, starting with Central Park,” said Ms Holloway. Her comments are backed by

Councillor Jeremy Goslin, who covers Central Park and Peverell ward. “Central Park is one of the best features of Peverell, but in the winter months many residents, especially women and girls, feel unsafe when using or crossing the park due to poor lighting,” said Cllr Goslin.

“If you want to walk your dog, go running, or cross the park to get home or to local destinations like the Life Centre you are faced with completely unlit or poorly lit paths or paths with sporadic lighting, such as here on Jubilee Way,” said Charlotte. Charlotte Holloway’s petition is available to sign at www. change.org/PlymParkLighting. Campaigners are also encouraging people to come forward with their suggestions of where they would like to see better lighting for improved public safety The new commission launched in a bid to tackle violence against women and girls - met for the first time on January 10 (see story below). The group – made up of experts and agencies – will review what needs to be done to prevent violence in the city.

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Chance to have your say about safety in Plymouth for women and girls

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A new multi-agency commission is inviting local people to share their views on how violence affects women and girls in Plymouth, to help shape their future agenda.

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Earlier this month the new Violence Against Women and Girls Commission met for the first time to agree their areas of focus over the next three months. As part of their work, the Commission is inviting evidence and feedback from a wide-range of local organisations, victims, and experts, including a number of public sessions. They are also keen to hear from as many local people as possible, in order to understand how violence affects women and girls in Plymouth. They have already heard from over 150 people at the recent virtual Q and A, however they want more feedback to help shape the future programme. One of the first actions the Commission agreed is a survey which aims to: • Help the Commission understand the extent of violence against women and girls in Plymouth • Better understand the experiences of victims of violence against women and girls • Identify what will make women and girls feel safer • Allow residents an opportunity to help shape the city’s response to violence against women and girls The survey is open to everyone, however, the Commission is keen to hear

from any women and girls who have experienced or witnessed harassment or harm of any kind in Plymouth in the past five years. Councillor Rebecca Smith, chair of the Violence Against Women and Girls Commission, said: “It was clear from the virtual Q and A that many women and girls are very worried about safety in Plymouth. Therefore, it is essential that we understand the real scale of the issue. “We know that many crimes go

un-reported, therefore the most powerful evidence will come from the testimony of those who have been subjected to these crimes, or who are worried about them. “I would encourage all women and girls to let me know their views so that we can determine what the city can do to make you safer. This is an important survey that I hope will make a real difference to public safety in Plymouth.” “We recognise that violence Cllr Smith was interviewed on BBC Spotlight about the Commission on Violence against Women and Girls

against women and girls can be a sensitive topic and are committed to carrying out this engagement activity in a compassionate and trauma – informed manner. Please note that this survey includes content about harm against women and girls, including, harassment and violence (including of a sexual nature) and asks about your personal experiences. The survey is open until midnight on Sunday February 13. All responses to this survey are anonymous and the results will be collated and analysed to identify themes and recurring issues. To ensure the survey is accessible to all, it is also available in additional formats and languages upon request by emailing VAWG@plymouth.gov.uk Alternatively, anyone who does not wish to complete the survey and just wants to get in touch to share their experience or ideas that they would like the commission to conside, the free text option on the council’s consultation portal, details of which are shown below. The same applies to practitioners, organisations or partners and which share any research, data or intelligence that would be valuable The survey can be completed or the free text option selected at https://plymouth-consult. objective.co.uk/kse Women and girls are advised to only take part if they feel safe to do so. Anyone in immediate danger must call 999.

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14 February 2022

Feeling ready for a new start? Skills Launchpad Plymouth is all systems go to help out! September 2021 marked the opening of Skills Launchpad Plymouth, the city’s new one-stop-shop connecting local people with opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs.

Led by Plymouth City Council, in alignment with the Department for Work and Pensions, Skills Launchpad Plymouth supports those who are seeking work, facing redundancy or changing careers through the Adult Hub aged 25 years and over, and offering targeted support for young people aged from 16 to 24 years including those with additional needs through the Youth Hub. The intention of the ‘Skills Journey’ through the Launchpad is to put the individual at the heart of the process – recognising that not one size fits all and that anyone in Plymouth can access this free help. The service offers an ethical and inclusive front door, designed to help local people make independent and informed skills and training choices, leading to better access to real employment opportunities. Supported by Barclays Plymouth – located at 140-146 Armada Way in the city centre – Skills Launchpad Plymouth is home to both the Youth Hub and Adult Hub, providing

Supporters set to take the plunge for Devon Air Ambulance Devon Air Ambulance supporters are all set to jump at chance to sign up to skydive as charity enters its 30th year. bookable appointments for face to face coordinated services for young people and adults. In addition a range of activities are delivered each week including drop in Job Shops for help to join the construction industry, and health and care sector and ‘Military Tuesdays’ to provide tailored

support for service leavers, veterans and their families. Skills Launchpad Plymouth offers free: • access to impartial careers information, advice and guidance • one to one face to face skills assessment to identify transferrable skills to help candidates apply more confidently for jobs or change careers • help to job search, update CV and prepare for interview • the opportunity to gain skills to build confidence • support for mental health and well-being to get people in a better head space • advice to overcome barriers to starting work including access to financial support for work clothing, initial travel to work costs as well as guidance on benefits calculations • access to ongoing training and skills development once candidates get started to continue up-skilling and developing their career Get better informed about local opportunities by signing up as a free member today at www.skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk People can also keep up to date with all the latest news and events by following on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram @ SkillsLaunchpadPlymouth and via Twitter @ LaunchpadPlym

Business leading the way in vaccination research moves to Plymouth Science Park A company which aims to make the world a safer and healthier place through infection control and vaccine development is the latest tenant at Plymouth Science Park in Derriford. The Vaccine Group – a University of Plymouth biotech spin-out company – was founded in 2017 to develop and commercialise the work of Dr Michael Jarvis, associate professor in Virology and Immunology at the University of Plymouth’s School of Biomedical Sciences. The company is working on a number of projects involving vaccine research and development to control human and animal diseases. Global partnerships to develop vaccines for use in animals include the Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Kansas State

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University and UC Davis, California. TVG partnered with Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Montana and The Pirbright Institute to develop a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the causal agent of the COVID-19 pandemic, to specifically address future variant emergence in humans. The move to Plymouth Science Park comes as TVG attracts more investment and increases the breadth of its research and development and commercialisation work. Further expansion is anticipated in 2022 and beyond as the product portfolio and collaborative programme expands. Jeremy Salt, the company’s chief executive, said: “TVG has been awarded a number of international grants and has raised significant private investment to expand the scope of our research. The move to Plymouth

Science Park is really helpful in providing high quality support for the company. “This is very reassuring to us as it allows our research team to focus on their projects and build value for the company. Having other companies in close proximity is a potential benefit as we build our networks in the commercial environment.” Dr Michael Jarvis said: “TVG has recently completed a pre-clinical trial that is a significant milestone in the development of the next generation of COVID-19 vaccines. This vaccine is designed specifically to address the emerging variant problem. With plans to expand and collaborate further in order to tackle COVID and other diseases, Plymouth Science Park provides the perfect environment.” Visit www.thevaccinegroup.com

As Devon Air Ambulance enters its 30th year of service in 2022, the charity is inviting supporters who would like to raise funds for the local lifesaving charity to take a leap into the blue with a skydiving fundraising challenge. Over the Platinum Jubilee bank holiday weekend on Saturday June 4, 2022, Devon Air Ambulance will be championing jumpers on its first ever Community Skydive Day. Fundraisers will assemble at Skydive Buzz HQ at Dunkeswell airfield in East Devon, where they will be cheered on by friends and family as they embark on their 15,000ft jump. Those who might like to take to the skies in a different way can opt for a wingwalk challenge instead. Fundraisers’ family members are all welcome to lend support at the airfield as there will be food available and a host of fun activities to engage onlookers, as well as an opportunity to meet members of the Devon Air Ambulance team who will be happy to answer questions about the 30-year-old service. Fundraisers who undertake the skydive challenge on June 4 are helping to keep the advanced critical care team responding to the people of Devon when they need it most and will receive a personal thank you from one of our critical care paramedics to express gratitude for their support. Fundraisers can sign up now for the 15000ft plunge, either choosing to jump solo, or by building a team with colleagues, friends, or family. In advance of the jump, supporters can raise funds with supporting events to cover the cost of their jump. Interested fundraisers can contact the Devon Air Ambulance Fundraising Team for some helpful ideas by emailing fundraising@Daat.org Those interested in the wingwalk can experience the thrill of a sky-high feat when they strap themselves to the top of the Wingwalk Buzz aircraft. As with the skydive, the Devon Air Ambulance fundraising team is available to support fundraising plans ahead of the event. Sally Hilton, head of fundraising for Devon Air Ambulance said: “We’re delighted that there has already been keen interest in the skydiving weekend. Funds raised by our intrepid supporters will make a big difference to our patients, especially after such a prolonged period of having put on-hold our public fundraising events. The weekend promises to be great fun for everyone who participates or supports the fundraisers, and we’re very much looking forward to an occasion that will help to mark our 30th year of service.” Anyone interested in signing up for the skydive or the wingwalk can do so by visiting the charity’s event page www.daat.org/Event/ jubilee-jump-skydive

Building strong grassroots organisations, charities, and social enterprises in Plymouth

Message from Matt, CEO at POP This must be the year we clap for the future. Surely, we’ll see greater stability and an end to the frequent restriction changes which have had such an impact on our wellbeing and our business? It is obvious that the impact of the pandemic will be long, particularly within the ‘caring’ professions: NHS waiting lists continue to grow; ‘burnout’ is increasing and the shortfall of staff, such as nurses and GP’s shows no sign of stopping. Yet, now is the time to applaud those that have carried us through the last two years; the NHS, charities, communities and individuals. Thank you.

Hello, I’m Caroline and I’ve been writing this POP page since the beginning of the pandemic. I’ve reported on the work of communities; volunteers and neighbours. I’ve written about inspirational individuals who through one good deed have, to their surprise, found themselves leading a projects to help others; I have written about the work that POP does to enable others to make Plymouth a better place for all of us and, now, I’m going to write about Spiderman.... what?!!! I know, bit of a surprise for me too... but there I was watching the latest film in the cinema, when I am introduced to Peter Parker’s Aunt May who is a thoroughly good egg. The operations manager at the homeless shelter FEAST (it stands for Food, Emergency, Aid, Shelter and Training), Aunt May instils in Peter the belief that people are essentially ‘good’ and deserve a second (or third) chance. Regrettably, this doesn’t hold true for the Green Goblin and Aunt May is tragically killed in the ensuing battle between good and evil.

Caroline with her friend at the Funky Llama event on the Hoe, 2019

In the scene where Peter visits his Aunt’s grave, we see the inscription on her headstone: “When you help someone, you help everyone.” And - here it is, that lightbulb moment - this is what POP does! This is POP! POP is Spiderman’s Aunt May! And that’s what I needed to tell you.

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WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

POP is working with Street to Scale to bring grassroots community ideas to life. There is no application form; no targets and no need for written outcomes. If you’d like £1000 to spend on your community, contact: 07842 043399 (WhatsApp)

The Care Nest Sings of Compassion:

“All too often, we put our energies into caring for others and focusing on what others think of us instead of accepting ourselves. It’s

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SUPPOSE YOU HAD £1000 TO SPEND IMPROVING YOUR COMMUNITY

POP will continue to focus on ‘community’ and the amazing grassroots groups we depend on (but are often unaware of) while we initiate exciting plans to increase our support and widen our impact across the city. Now, more than ever, we need to reinforce our connections so that we can face future challenges together.

Stepping into The Care Nest for therapy is akin to being given a great big hug. The warm, cosy and intimate space is adorned with blankets, pillows, and candles casting a gentle light and creating a sense of softness. Helen Williams, who greets you with kindness and compassion, invites you to come to rest and settle into a session unlike any other you might have experienced. This is The Care Nest, where learning to love yourself is (as Whitney sang) the greatest love of all:

Efford Efford Community Community Network Network

So, please excuse the gratuitous film poster but... why not?! Happy New Year.

For POP, this year is a significant one as we near the end of our core funding from Esmee Fairbairn.

“May we care for ourselves; may we care for each other; may we care for this place.”

Helpline Numbers:

not an egotistical love but one that takes accountability for our actions and one that is incredibly brave.” This unique therapeutic space which opened earlier this year, and the compassionate aura that radiates from Helen, help to ‘hold’ the individual as they share intimate details of their life and explore their feelings, such as, grief, despair, anger, fear, exhaustion, frustration and loneliness. The extent and depth of feelings such as these, says Helen, have led to widespread ill health and great distress; “Many of us are now experiencing pervasive and persistent trauma as a direct result of the harms that surround us. It cuts us to the heart, and it’s non-stop.” Helen has set up The Care Nest to help people. Drawing on her own experiences and challenges - and armed with the appropriate

professional training and qualifications along with an abundance of compassion - Helen supports individuals as they progress on a journey of rediscovery and greater selfunderstanding. Through a combination of talking therapy, mindfulness and body-mind integration practices, Helen delivers a trauma-sensitive approach in either one-to-one or group sessions both online and in-person.

name, and to investigate Helen believes we can learn to dissolve this flow of unworthiness and emerge with greater acceptance and love for ourselves. If you feel the Care Nest could help you then contact Helen on 07584 635747 or email helen@matterinmotion.co.uk

“We are in a time of great division and loneliness and people are experiencing intense emotions that they are often unable to share. And, in our culture, we have almost no safe spaces in which to express these feelings so we don’t get listened to and often we’re told our feelings don’t count.” From politicians to people with addictions Helen has found that any one of us might believe that we are not ‘enough’. Having delivered similar therapeutic practices via a one-hour workshop every day for five days to a cohort of community leaders in Scotland, including members of the leadership team of the Scottish government, Helen believes there is an undercurrent of unworthiness flowing through society. Through a simple set of invitations – to slow down, to notice, to

Helen Williams

16 February 2022 THE

Experience It is early January as I write this and a classic early January morning at that, cold, grey and drizzly.

Not the most upbeat description but accurate for how the weather has been almost every day since Christmas. With the bleak weather, short daylight hours and end of the Christmas festivities, January is a month which many people find difficult. Thankfully we’re more aware of mental health nowadays and in general people feel more able to talk with someone if they are struggling. The situation is far from perfect but health services are better equipped to deal with any number of mental health challenges people face. January is so linked to mental health challenges that the third Monday in January is dubbed ‘Blue Monday’ because it is supposedly the day where the population struggles more mentally than any other day in the year. One of our slogans at Cross Rhythms Plymouth is ‘Positive Radio for Britain’s Ocean City’. It’s something that we try to hold to in what we broadcast however we are definitely not a station for just the

16 February 2022

@PlymChronicle

Dealing with life’s struggles

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms Plymouth

power of positive thinking or in any way in those people who are working to help denial of the very real challenges in life. others through these radio interviews. Thinking positively is important but The root of our motivation for being facing the reality of day to day life with the ‘positive radio’ does go a little deeper still. good and bad bits is vital. It is the belief and lived As a result we regularly experience of all of us at broadcast interviews with Cross Rhythms Plymouth local community groups that we as humans are and organisations who are incredibly valuable. That there to help local people value comes first and who may be struggling for a foremost from us being number of reasons. created and loved by God In recent months this and knowing this love can included an interview with truly give us a firm mental Devon Mind, a local mental and spiritual foundation to health charity about the face whatever life throws services they provide for our way. new and expectant parents This doesn’t mean that and the mental health none of us have mental challenges they face. You can health struggles. In fact hear this interview in full I think I can safely say and other similar interviews almost all of the team Dave Simpson on ww.crossrhythms.co.uk/ have experienced times plymouth. of depression and anxiety It is always great to hear to varying degrees. What how much support is on offer if you are it does mean, though, is we know and struggling and it’s an honour to support experience the love and presence of God in

Jack Leslie statue will be unveiled later this year, say campaign organisers After its incredible fundraising effort, designing and planning for the Jack Leslie statue is well underway, and organisers of the campaign have now reveal edmore about its design and location.

is leading on project delivery, planning the landscaping that will surround the work and dealing with logistics. With Garry’s expertise, the campaign has identified a preferred location which Plymouth Argyle also supports. It would provide maximum exposure to the statue for supporters, Park and Ride users and park users. Subject to discussions with the local authority, it is hoped to confirm the location in January. Campaign co-founder, Matt Tiller, said, “All involved in the Campaign want the most public-facing location outside Home Park as possible. We hope Argyle fans, away supporters and passers-by alike, will stop

Work on the artwork itself is now progressing apace with renowned sculptor Andy Edwards, crafting the clay maquette – a scale model – to finalise the pose. In the coming weeks, it will be scaled up to one and a quarter life-size to create an impressive, detailed and lifelike statue of the Plymouth Argyle legend. Everyone involved is excited and impressed with the work in progress. The statue’s full detail will only be revealed at the unveiling, which will happen in 2022, at a date to be confirmed. Edwards, the artist behind many such projects, including the CloughTaylor monument at Derby County FC and the Beatles statue in Liverpool, was appointed after an exhaustive selection process in 2021. He said: “As a football fan, the last few months of research have been hugely rewarding. I’ve enjoyed listening to many enthusiastic and informed Plymouth Argyle fans, had insightful conversations with former players and had the privilege of guidance and encouragement from Jack’s family. “I’ve tried to put all of this into a new scale model design from which the statue will begin being enlarged very soon. Without wanting to give too much away, the new design portrays an iconic legend at his peak, when his goalscoring prowess was first being noticed by the press nationally. Fans can look forward to an installation that features many other elements to illustrate the story and recognises the many, many contributions that have made this new unique landmark Sculptor Andy Edwards is working on monument possible.” a scale model of the statue Garry McBride of Monumental Icons

and not only admire this celebration of Jack as a player, but also consider the injustice that befell him in 1925.” Jack Leslie’s family has been involved throughout, particularly his three granddaughters Lyn, Gill and Lesley who said, “We are so proud to see our grandad’s life recognised, celebrated and also used to as an educational tool in the fight against racism. We were finally able to meet members of the Campaign and the sculptor, Andy Edwards, in person recently. Now, the whole family is excited to see the statue coming together.” Aside from statue planning, it has been a busy year for the campaign, with several events linked to Black History Month. This culminated in the unveiling of a Heritage Blue Plaque in Newham, East London, where Jack was born, raised and first played football for nearby Barking FC. It was there that he signed his professional contract with Plymouth Argyle. Campaign co-founder Greg Foxsmith said: “We have had an incredible year in terms of raising awareness of Jack’s story, which has been featured on everything from Antiques Road Trip to Coronation Street. The campaign has already shown Plymouth in a positive way, and the statue, once unveiled later this year, will continue to do that as a lasting legacy.” Meanwhile, fundraising continues, and people can contribute via the Crowdfunder site: at www.crowdfunder. co.uk/jack-leslie-campaign The Jack Leslie Campaign is also keen to hear from businesses that would like to get involved. These extra funds will help the statue project and the educational work supporting the monument and telling the Jack Leslie story. Contact the Campaign for more information at jacklesliecampaign@gmail.com information: jacklesliecampaign@ gmail.com

the midst of challenges. We’ve all just come through Christmas and at the heart of Christmas is the message of Jesus, otherwise known as Immanuel. This word Immanuel means ‘God with us’ and it is truly profound. God wants to be with us in our everyday lives and came into the world as a human to share in our lived experience with all the good and bad aspects of that. Fast forward to Easter and you can see quite how much of the human experience of suffering Jesus entered into. A phrase Jesus was quoted as saying is ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’ This is an invitation to any of us that we can reach out to God and share our burdens and find true peace in their place. This is as true for mental burdens as any other and it is my hope in writing this article that you can experience this for yourself this year. Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

EMERGENCY ROADWORKS IN EXETER STREET Emergency roadworks to repair a fault on the electricity network will start in Plymouth on Monday January 24, with work expected to last ten days.

Western Power Distribution is to close the inbound entrance to Bretonside at the junction with Exeter Street from 9.30am from Monday. This work will ensure the continued security of electricity supplies to customers around the city, and enable staff to complete work as quickly and safely as possible. Traffic will be diverted along Exeter Street, The Viaduct, Kinterbury Street, Bretonside and right onto Vauxhall Street. Outbound traffic through Bretonside will be open but restricted to one lane at the exit onto Exeter Street. Team manager Shaun Lang said: “We know these are busy junctions and would like to apologise to motorists for the inconvenience. We are working as fast and as safely as we can to complete the works and hope to have the repair and reinstatement of the road completed within ten calendar days.”

Dial the Experts The handy guide to Plymouth trades & services

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18 February 2022

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Free 12-week course at Slimming World Slimming World groups in Plymouth have teamed up with Plymouth City Council to offer residents a free 12-week referral.

Helping children to prevent tooth decay Schoolchildren who are most at risk of serious oral health problems in Plymouth are receiving fluoride varnish applications to prevent tooth decay now and in later life.

In terms of general health in Plymouth, there is a marked difference between the West and more affluent East of the city, and children’s oral health can be adversely affected by living in the city’s more deprived wards. In areas like Plymouth without water fluoridation the Department of Health recommend that all children should receive fluoride applications to their teeth to protect them against the risk of dental decay. The financial reality is that with limited funds, those schools whose pupils have higher risk of developing tooth decay have to be prioritised. Why some areas of the city have higher levels of poor health, in wards that also have lower levels of financial prosperity, is an important question that provokes complex answers. A report from Public Health shows that more children are affected in those areas, with some pretty grim statistics and lived experiences city-wide: 620 children had 3,935 teeth extracted under general anaesthetic in one year, at a cost to the NHS of £629,000. As well as affecting physical health and wellbeing, tooth decay can eventually lead to not being able to smile confidently, loss of social interaction, lost job opportunities, and a wide reaching, negative effect on a person’s ability to live a full life. As part of the city’s multi-agency response to support children who need the most help, 24 primary schools in targeted areas are taking part in the fluoride varnishing programme. “Fluoride varnishing is the best tool we have for preventing dental caries (tooth decay),” says Elaine Knight, dental clinical lead with Livewell South West, “and uptake of the programme in these primary schools, aimed at 4-5 year olds, is good.” Dental nurses visit the schools twice per year and apply fluoride varnish to the teeth of the children. In addition, they deliver oral health messages to school staff, parents, and children in years 1, 3 and 6. As any parent knows, the daily mantra ‘Brush your teeth’ dawns like a new idea to children every day, and needs repeating endlessly for some, so this support and education can really help. There are persistent oral health inequalities in the city. Fluoride varnishing, along with engaging parents, teachers and communities to help children learn how to look after their teeth is one of the ways in which those inequalities are being addressed, providing significant protection for children’s teeth both now and for later life. For more info regarding children’s oral health, go to: https://www.livewellsouthwest.co.uk/childrensservices/specialist-dental or talk to your child’s school office to see if they are part of the fluoride varnishing programme.

Lauren Fidler, who is one of the team developers for the area said: “We are hearing daily from the residents in our area about the struggles they are facing trying to lose weight on their own after lockdown and are desperate to take control again of their weight and join one of our groups. “When looking at the statistics for the Plymouth area, 67.5 per cent of adults were overweight or obese so I’m grateful to be able to offer this fantastic genuine offer to the residents of Plymouth.” Lauren first joined Slimming World as a member herself losing seven stone before becoming a consultant. She joined the weight-loss group as she hated how she looked and felt isolated because of her weight which also impacted her health condition; Chronic Fatigue Syndrome [CFS]. Her CFS is currently in remission thanks to her new healthy weight and life-style. “Losing weight and improving my diet means I have so much more energy. At my biggest I struggled to get out of bed each day and climbing stairs was a huge challenge. Since losing weight I’ve been able to become much more active and stop medication for my conditions,” said Lauren. To apply for the offer applicants must be a new member to Slimming World, have a BMI of over 25, and live in postcode areas PL1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. To find out more, contact the local Slimming World consultant or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk to find a local Slimming World group.

Lipson Co-operative Academy latest to join Ted Wragg Trust

Martin Brook, Lipson Academy headteacher, left, with students from Lipson Academy, and Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, right

Lipson Co-operative Academy has become the latest school to join the Ted Wragg Trust.

It is the fourth Plymouth school to join the ambitious Trust of schools, which aims to strengthen communities through excellent education. The Trust has the highest expectations for every child, every day, with social justice at its core. The addition of Lipson, which believes in valuing young people, putting them first, insisting in the highest quality in everything they do, with an emphasis on achievement as a core purpose will

further strengthen the growing Trust and open up opportunities for pupils, staff and the Plymouth area. Moira Marder, chief executive officer of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “I am so incredibly excited to welcome Lipson to our ambitious and inclusive Trust of schools. “The Trust continues to grow from strength to strength and we have gained real benefits from positively collaborating with our ever-growing network of schools and links to local and national organisations.” Martin Brook, headteacher at Lipson

said: “Although Lipson will be joining the Ted Wragg Multi Academy Trust from January, we have been working really closely together for the last six months, during which the experience has been extremely positive. “I can see only good things coming from the partnership and I think the relationship will benefit Lipson and the Trust as a whole.” Lipson will be the 13th school to join the Ted Wragg Trust which also includes Marine Academy Primary, Marine Academy Plymouth, and All Saints Academy Plymouth.

February 2022 19

@PlymChronicle

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First all night rave at Flicks - The Warehouse, 14 February 1992 from the upcoming exhibition at The Box ‘Because The Night Belongs To Us’ © Mirrorpix

The Box unveils details of exhibitions programme for the coming year... The Box, Plymouth’s award-winning museum has unveiled details of its exhibitions programme for the year ahead.

Over the course of the year, the venue will celebrate local talent alongside international artists – including several Turner Prize nominees – through ground breaking exhibitions that draw on its permanent collections and which bring new works and collaborators to Plymouth. Highlights for 2022 include: Another Crossing - Artists Revisit the Mayflower Voyage Ten international artists from the UK, USA, Wampanoag and Netherlands respond to the ongoing resonance of the Mayflower voyage. The exhibition is a partnership between The Box, Plymouth College of Art and the Fuller Craft Museum, USA. All the artists involved have created work in response to the 400th anniversary, utilising only technology - tools, materials, and processes that existed in 1620. The exhibition highlights the sophistication of historic craft practices, like beadwork, joinery, metalsmithing, leatherwork, and pottery. The exhibition opens on Feb rural 26 and continues until June 5. Breaking the Mould: Sculpture by Women from 1945 Breaking the Mould is the first survey of postwar British sculpture by women. The exhibition explores the work of over 40 sculptors in the Arts Council Collection. It provides a radical recalibration, addressing the many accounts of British sculpture that have marginalised women or airbrushed their work from art history altogether. Many of the represented artists have challenged widespread notions of sculpture as a ‘male occupation’ by embracing new materials, subjects and approaches. In contrast, others have avoided institutional bias by producing work for alternative spaces or public sites. Featured artists include: Barbara Hepworth, Elisabeth Frink, Kim Lim, Cornelia Parker, Veronica Ryan, Rachel Whiteread and Anthea Hamilton. The Plymouth presentation is delivered by The Box and The Arts Institute, University of Plymouth partnership and will be displayed as a dual-site exhibition at The Box and The Levinsky Gallery at the University of Plymouth. The exhibition runs from March 26 to June 5. Dress Code - Fashion Stories from The Box In the city’s first exhibition dedicated to fashion, highlights from The Box’s costume and textile collection will be displayed alongside paintings, drawings, film and archival material to tell important local and international stories about

Dress Code Fashion Stories from The Box will open in March

fashion and clothing. The exhibition spans the 1700s to today and speaks to contemporary conversations about identity, sustainability, shopping, design, making and craft. A paper dress from the 1960s foretells the future of fast fashion. A 300-year-old silk gown tells the story of global textile trade. A subversive garment made locally, and worn all around the world, represents one of several of the city’s histories of garment production. From lace to latex, visitors will learn about Plymouth’s fashion pasts and futures. Exhibition opens on March 26 and continues until September 4. Zadie Xa Korean-Canadian artist Zadie Xa has a strong focus on making, combining and exploring her own identity through film and performance, textiles and painting. The Box acquired two works by Xa in 2018, through the Contemporary Art Society. For this exhibition, she will create a mythological and cosmological journey that creates dialogue with historical works from the collections. The exhibition runs from April 2 to June 5.

Because the Night Belongs to Us From the Van Dike Club of the late 1960s to the world famous Union Street - Plymouth’s contribution to experimentation, self-expression, music and creativity has been distinctive, challenging and captivating. Because the Night Belongs To Us is the culmination of a five-year community engagement project called Plymouth After Dark, which has brought together a diverse range of previously unseen archive materials, film, images and new commissions to tell this story for the first time. The Box has developed the exhibition with numerous contributions from the people of Plymouth. It has been supported by artist Keith Harrison (recent commissions include Jerwood Open, V&A Ceramics Resident, Outlands Network], award winning journalist, writer and critic John Harris and DJ, psychotherapist and broadcaster Nemone. The exhibition runs from June 18 to September 4. British Art Show 9 The British Art Show is a landmark touring exhibition that celebrates the vitality of recent art made in Britain. British Art Show 9 takes a critical look at art produced from 2015 to the present moment, a period that begins with Britain voting to leave the European Union and closes with the still unfolding Covid-19 pandemic. The exhibition was shaped after meeting with over 230 artists in 23 cities and will present work by 45 artists, including Turner Prize nominees Oscar Murillo and Hurvin Anderson. In Plymouth, the exhibition centres on the migration of bodies, peoples, plants, objects, ideas and forms. It includes Cornwall-based Abigail Reynolds and Katie Schwab, who had a SouthWest Showcase residency and exhibition at Plymouth College of Art in 2019. Since Plymouth hosted BAS7 ten years ago, the city has grown in maturity, confidence and reputation as a cultural destination and centre for contemporary art. Plymouth will be taking a very innovative approach to developing audiences, involving them in the planning process as they aim to dispel the myths around contemporary art. The exhibition will be delivered in partnership with Plymouth Culture and shown across four venues: The Box, KARST, The Levinsky Gallery at the University of Plymouth and MIRROR at Plymouth College of Art. The show will run from October 8 to December 23. For details of all the exhibitions and collections visit www.theboxplymouth.com

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20 February 2022

@PlymChronicle

to Event-full year ahead for the city! Advertise over From pirates to pyrotechnics, live music to military moments and food festivals to family fun, Plymouth’s 2022 calendar is jam-packed with a host of events.

Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival takes place in September

The plan for 2022 includes the return of some beloved events on the waterfront and throughout the city centre, which haven’t been able to take place since 2019 due to the ongoing pandemic. Each year, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and Plymouth City Centre Company work together to offer a buzzing events programme which includes supporting independent organisers to host events in the city. Councillor Mark Deacon, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and Sport at Plymouth City Council said: “We’re thrilled to be able to announce the epic line-up of events due to take place in Plymouth throughout 2022 – here are all the key dates you need for your diaries. After the last couple of years, it goes without saying that we appreciate things don’t always run and chart-topping band Simply Red (July 10). triathlon is made up of a swim in Tinside Lido, as planned, but our hope is that this year we can Another popular event coming back to cycling time trials and static rowing on Plymouth ensure the safe return of some of Plymouth’s most Plymouth Hoe this year is Armed Forces Day Hoe. popular free events, as well as some exciting new (June 25). It’s a great opportunity for everyone Plymouth’s military history will also be additions.” to show their support for celebrated with Commando Gunners’ 60th The family fun begins the military community, Anniversary Parade (May 14) through the city, in May, with the return of from serving troops to including the serving regiment and veterans, The popular Pirates Weekend Plymouth veterans, cadets and their to mark the 60th anniversary of 29 Commando Pirates (May 7 and 8) promising a families. The day includes Regiment Royal Artillery in Plymouth. Weekend swashbuckling two days returns in May a packed programme of For sports fans, sailing enthusiasts and of fun inspired by the high entertainment, with arena action lovers, SailGP is returning to the city for seas. The fun continues displays, interactive activities the second year in a row. Expect adrenaline throughout May with free and parades, including a fuelled excitement on Plymouth Sound as ten activities for families to dedicated parade of veterans international sailing teams comprised of the enjoy at Lord Mayor’s Day to recognise the 40th world’s top athletes battle it out to win the Great (May 21). anniversary of the Falklands Britain Sail Grand Prix (July 30 and 31). Foodie fans are in for War. Visitors can enjoy live Anyone who is more excited about participating a real treat this year too. performances throughout in sport rather than watching can sign up to the Flavour Fest (May 27 to 29) is the day before a free evening Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival (June 19), the South West’s largest free concert takes to the stage, which includes the Plymouth Half Marathon, 10k food and drink festival, with with an amazing headliner and 5k, offering something for runners of all hundreds of local producers set to be announced soon. abilities. selling tasty treats and a The Rehabilitation Look to the skies in August as the beloved chef stage with regional Triathlon hosted by the Royal British Firework Championships (August 17 and 18) cookery stars showcasing Marines (June 23) will also sees six pyrotechnic companies showcase their their skills. Later in the year, take place in the city for the very best work in epic ten-minute displays, as they the Plymouth Seafood and first time, with outstanding compete to be crowned the country’s best. Harbour Festival (September athletes – Paralympians and Later in the month, the West End Carnival 17 and 18) will celebrate all Invictus Games competitors (August 27) will return to the city centre offering a that’s great about the city’s among them - competing full day of carnival flair. Expect live music, street stunning waterfront and in the tough event. The performers and free children’s activities to enjoy, fishing industry. and take time to explore the city’s There’s also an impressive independent quarter at the same line-up of live music to enjoy over time. the summer. More details about all these The Jubilee Bank Holiday events will be shared in due weekend will see the 1 Big Summer May  7 – 8 Pirates Weekend Plymouth, Barbican and Sutton Harbour May 14 Commando Gunners’ 60th Anniversary Parade, Royal Parade course. For all the latest details music festival take to Plymouth May 21 Lord Mayor’s Day, City Centre about what’s on in Plymouth, Hoe (June 2 to 4), with the line-up May 27 – 29 Flavour Fest, City Centre including information about set to include an epic range of June 2 – 4 1 Big Summer, Plymouth Hoe smaller events taking place music including Basement Jaxx, June 19 Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival, Plymouth Hoe throughout the year, please Years and Years, The Libertines and June 23 Rehabilitation Triathlon hosted by Royal Marines, Plymouth Hoe see visitplymouth.co.uk. Supergrass. June 25 Plymouth Armed Forces Day, Plymouth Hoe Event organisers can also Following the success of the July 9 Paloma Faith, Central Park promote their own events on Tom Jones gig in September 2021, July 10 Simply Red, Central Park the Visit Plymouth website by July 30 – 31 SailGP’s Great Britain Sail Grand Prix, Plymouth Sound Cottage Field in Central Park is submitting the details here: www. Aug 17 – 18 British Firework Championships, Plymouth Hoe set to host more global music visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/ Aug 27 West End Carnival, City Centre superstars including singersubmit-event. Sept  17 – 18 Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival, Barbican and Sutton Harbour songwriter Paloma Faith (July 9)

ALL THE BIG EVENTS - AT A GLANCE

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