Plymouth Chronicle Central March 2023

It’s National No Smoking Day on Wednesday 8th March and this year the campaign’s theme will focus on the link between smoking and dementia. Most of us already know that smoking can cause serious conditions like lung cancer and heart disease, but fewer people know that it can also increase your risk of dementia. Every cigarette contains harmful chemicals that are bad for your brain, quitting smoking could be the next step you take for better brain health.

There are lots of products available to help you such as nicotine replacement therapy or switching to a vape/e-cig to help reduce potential cravings. Paul Carder, went smoke free last year by switching to vaping and found that giving up was not as stressful as he initially thought: “Vaping dealt with the habit side of smoking as it replicated the action of smoking and satisfied my hand to mouth addiction.”

Don’t give up on giving up. Every time you try to stop smoking, you’re a step closer to success. Get the support you really need, call 01752 437177 or email oneyou.plymouth@nhs.net and quit this No Smoking Day.

All set for launch of Connect Plymouth

A new website has been launched as part of an initiative to provide new ways for people to move around Plymouth.

Connect Plymouth will officially launch on March 21, but ahead of this date people are being invited to visit www.connectplymouth.org to see what facilities will be near their home and where they work or play.

By the end of the installation phase, Connect Plymouth will see 500 electric bikes for hire at over 90 locations, 300 fast and rapid electric vehicle chargers in 50 locations and an electric car club across the city.

The ground work needed for docking stations and charging points is already underway in a number of locations. Council staff have been road-

testing electric bikes, for instance, from Ballard House and work is currently ongoing at Manadon Sports Hub in St Peters Road, which is one of the first sites to get infrastructure installed.

Other preparation work involves electricity cable installation, parking bay marking and in some cases, changes to kerbs.

The new Connect Plymouth components – the e-bikes, car hire and charge points – are designed to be integrated with existing public travel including ferries, walking and cycling routes and the Connect Plymouth website not only has a map of planned facility locations but links to journey planners and to the companies who run the schemes.

Councillor Jonathan Drean, Cabinet Member for Transport said: “We’re really excited about Connect Plymouth as it will offer greener, more sustainable travel right across the city.

“The scheme is all about making sustainable transport easier and more attractive for the people of Plymouth to use. With the official launch date in sight, we wanted people to check out the map so that they can get a sense of what’s on offer near them.

“We have committed to reducing carbon emissions and to greener travel as part of our Climate Emergency Action Plan and we want Connect Plymouth

to play a big part in helping to change people’s habits and to get greener on the go.”

Last year the council awarded contracts to Co Cars, the on-demand, zero and low emission car club to run their fleet in the city. Beryl Bikes are on board with a 500-strong fleet of electric bikes for hire to be located across the city. When fully operational, there will be an additional 300 parking bays across the city with electric vehicle charge points provided by Wenea.

Connect Plymouth is the new name for the network of facilities – which were formerly called mobility hubs. It is part of the Department of Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund, which aims to change people’s travel habits by making it as easy as possible for people to choose low carbon options to get about.

In March 2020 the Council received £51.2m capital funding from the Transforming Cities Fund. This builds upon the £7.6m previously awarded in 2019.

Adrian Vinken wins top honour at Devon Tourism Awards

Adrian Vinken, former chief executive of the Theatre Royal Plymouth, has been presented with the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award’ at the Devon Tourism Award’s ceremony.

Adrian, who is also former chair of Destination Plymouth, Mayflower400 and director of the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and The Lowry Salford has been a driving force in both the visitor and cultural sectors in the region.

He was awarded an OBE in 2006 for his leadership of the cultural and creative sector in the South West helping to create the first Cultural Strategy for the region.

In 2018 he was appointed a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the County of Devon and in 2022 he was awarded a CBE in the New Year’s Honours list.

A founding Director of Sheffield’s Leadmill Theatre in the late 1970’s his pioneering work led to the growth of the cultural industries and connected tourism offer in the city. He left in 1990 to run one of the region’s most successful and iconic venues, the Theatre Royal in Plymouth.

During this time, apart from presenting nearly 2000 shows, Adrian was responsible for the development of TR2, the theatre’s unique award-winning Production

and Learning Centre on the River Plym and the theatre’s wholesale modernisation in 2013, expanding front of house and catering facilities and creating the building’s third performance space The Lab.

He joined the Board of Destination Plymouth as a founder member when the company was formed in 2010 and was instrumental in the development of the city’s first ‘Visitor strategy’ embedding culture at the heart of the city’s ambitious growth plans for tourism and the wider visitor economy. Adrian retired from the Theatre Royal and Destination Plymouth in 2021.

Adrian Vinken said: “It’s a joy to receive this honour and I want to thank all those involved at the Devon Tourism Awards team. Frankly I feel a little embarrassed to be given such an award for, in the end, just simply having the good fortune to enjoy one of the most exciting, varied  and fulfilling careers imaginable in such a brilliant city.

“It’s been a privilege to work with my fellow directors and the great executive team at Destination Plymouth, the leaders and officers at Plymouth City Council and key activists in the area’s cultural sector.  Their commitment and advocacy has been responsible for radically transforming Plymouth’s cultural and tourism landscape over the past two decades.”

...and gold for the Tourist Information Centre team

Plymouth Tourist Information Centre’s team has won gold at the Devon Tourism Awards in the ‘Visitor Information Service of the Year’ category.

The team, led by Visitor Services manager Clare Phillips, won the award for their exceptional standard of service and appropriate information.

The Plymouth Tourist Information Centre is a key part of the Association of Barbican Business, has an excellent rapport with visitors and are an integral to the success of local tourist events.

The team has also been busy with the refurbished Mayflower Museum, which

showcases a journey through time with four floors and four centuries to explore.

Plymouth’s Ocean View at The Dome also won gold in the ‘Restaurant of the Year’ and bronze in the ‘New Tourism Business’ categories. The gold award for ‘Unsung Hero’ went to Doug Kerr, Plymouth Volunteer Cruise Ambassador.

Winners in all categories will automatically be ‘fast-tracked’ into corresponding categories of the South West Tourism Excellence Awards on at the Eden Project on March 23.

Clare Philips, Visitor Services manager at the Plymouth Tourism Information Centre said: “It’s amazing to be recognised

again for our exceptional standard of service at the Devon Tourism Awards. Its been a busy and exciting year in Plymouth, which the team have embraced with their usual enthusiasm.”

Amanda Lumley, chief executive at Destination Plymouth said: “We are so proud of the team at our TIC here in the Barbican and the great service they provide. Not only do they provide a warm welcome to the city but they are incredibly knowledgeable and give expert advice to the millions of visitors we receive annually. This award is truly well deserved and Clare and her team are to be congratulated”.

The first phase of Connect Plymouth goes live on March 21 and the occasion with be marked with a special launch event between 8am and 6pm at the Piazza in the city centre..

The public will get the chance to find out more information about each component of Connect Plymouth as welll as taking part in a range of fun activities. There will also be the opportunity to view the brand new electric VWID3 which will be part of the car club scheme.

Throughout the day the public will also be able to ride the e-bikes for free when joining one of the short 15 minute guided rides to help show people how to use the e-bikes and get a taster.

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

Send details of your event to info@ cornerstonevision.com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.

Anniversary Ceildh

Feb 25

With Plymouth Morris at the Woolwell Centre from 7pm to 11.15pm. With Black Velvet Ceilidh Duo. Tickets £8. Contact bagman@plymouthmorris.uk or www. plymouthmorris.uk

Susie Dent - The Secret Lives of Words

Feb 25

Take a journey into the curious, unexpected, and downright surreal origins of the words we use every day at the Quad Theatre, Marjon campus at 2pm. Susie will retell the adventures that lie hidden within such words as lasagne (involving a chamber pot) and bugbear (a terrorising monster). Susie will also share a selection of the funniest moments from her 30 years on Countdown and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, as well as some startling results from eavesdropping on a group of waiters. Tickets £23.50 from www. comicalentertainment.com.

The Terry Higgins Concert

Feb 26

Part of Jeannie Moore’s 29th International Concert Series at Stoke Damerel Church at 3pm. Terry has chosen seven pieces for this concert and performers include pianist Mark Bebbington, violinist Peter Fisher and flautist Judith Hall. Tickets £15 on the door and from www.wegottickets.com/event/568323

Cloudbusting:

Mar 3

St Luke’s Men’s Day Out

Mar 11

The Music of Kate Bush

As the longest running and most universally applauded homage to the music of Kate Bush, Cloudbusting has been championed by Radio One as one of the most authentic tributes in the world. Their passion for Kate’s music has won over sceptical fans everywhere, challenging perceptions of what a tribute band can be and resulting in sell-out performances across the UK. Hosted at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus from 7.30pm. Tickets £19.50 from eventbrite.co.uk

Music for Lent

Mar 4

West Devon Chorale present works by Mozart, Palestrina and others at Plymouth Roman Catholic Cathedral at 7.30pm. Tickets £14 (£12 in advance) £4 children and students from www.wegottickets/ westdevonchorale or from the choir adm inistrator on 01752 776479.

Rule the World

Mar 10

Take That tribute band appearing at Boringdon Park. Doors open at 7pm, 1am finish with house DJ. Tickets including three course dinner and welcome drink £40. Call 01752 339113.

Stand

Mar 10

Join the mass of big-hearted men marching through Plymouth to support the compassionate care St Luke’s provides for hundreds of local families at the toughest times in their lives. This special day is so much more than a fun, banter-fuelled, outing to revel in with your friends – it’s also about being mindful of our mental health. Discover a special bond with friends old and new as you stride a scenic 12km (7.5 mile) route through the city and waterfront from 10am. Starting and finishing at Plymouth Albion, participants can tuck into a well-earned pasty, enjoy a welcome beverage and cheer the local boys as they clash with the Rams from Reading. For details visit www.stlukeshospice.org.uk/mensdayout/

Soup and Sweet Lunch

Mar 18

Visitor Centre, Ford Park Cemetery from 12 noon to 2.30pm. Tickets £8, booking essential on 01752 665442.

Plymouth Brick Festival

Mar 18

A LEGO fan event at Plymouth Guildhall dedicated to all things brick! From 10am to 5pm Early bird from 10am £12 per person. Standard entry from 11am £6 per person, children £4. Family tickets available.

Table Top Sale

Mar 18

Up for New Parents

Professional comics perform for new parents who can’t get out at night!. At the Soapbox Theatre in Devonport Park at 11am. Limited tickets which include one adult and one child for £8/£10/£15 or pay what you can afford. Call 07947 880557 for tickets.

Mozart’s Requiem

Mar 11

The University of Plymouth Choral Society together with the Levowan XII choir and the Divertimento Ensemble present this legendary work and other compositions at 7.30pm in the Minster Church of St Andrew, Plymouth. Bookings from 01752 585050, www. plymouth.ac.uk/arts-institute/tickets or Mannamead News, Eggbuckland Road. Tickets £16 adults, £6 students/young people also available on the door.

Trinity United Reformed Church, Hartley from 10am to 12 noon. Entry 20p. Light refreshments available. To book a table contact Jill on 01752 249337.

The Marsha Head Concert

Mar 23

Part of Jeannie Moore’s 29th International Concert Series at Stoke Damerel Church at 3pm. Programme to include Passacaglia, Siciliana and Innocence Lost. Tickets £15 on the door and from www.wegottickets. com/event/568327

Plymouth Area Police Choir Concert

Mar 23

St Eustachius Church, Tavistock at 7.30pm supporting Police Force Museum and the choir. Tickets £12 via PAPC or Museum web sites, bookshop next to Church, on the door or through choir members.

Richard III Society Events

Mar 25 and Apr 15

On March the Devon & Cornwall branch of the Richard III Society will present a talk by two of its members on the Coronation of King Richard III. On April 15 there will be a visual presentation of past Coronations, starting with King Edgar.Both meetings will be held in the Chapel at Ford Park Cemetery at 1 p.m. Parking is free and anyone interested in medieval history is invited to attend. Further information if needed can be obtained by phoning the secretary on 01752 31685.

Plymouth Harbour Half

Mar 26

Join the Plymouth Harbour Half for a scenic running experience from Yelverton, following the former railway lines through Plym Woods, back to Saltram, and finishing up around the picturesque harbour. Jump on a coach to the heart of Dartmoor and enjoy the breathtaking views overlooking Plymouth, as you end up back on the Barbican. Details www. phrdevonmind.com

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir

Mar 26

The choir presents Dvorak’s Stabat Mater in Plymouth Guildhall at 7.30 pm. Tickets £20 in advance or £22 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com †or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, please visit plymouthphilchoir.org

Dinomania Tour 2023

Apr 1 and 2

Dinomania is a fun filled five star interactive dinosaur show hosted by YMCA Plymouth at Honickknowle. Two sessions per day at 11am and 3pm with only 300 tickets available per session. Join Ranger Chris and his dinosaurs as seen on BGT 2022! The award winning Youtube Rangers from Dinomania will teach you all about these amazing creatures. Dinosaurs will roam around the crowd in the UK’s most interactive dinosaur show. Tickets at www.dinomania.co.uk/ events/dinomania-tour-plymouth.php

Charity concert

Mar 31

Plymouth Area Police Choir join forces with the Girls Night Out Choir at St Bartholomew’s Church, Yealmpton at 7.30pm. Raising funds for local Scouts attending the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea. Tickets £7.50, £5 under 18. Contact Richard 07775603189/Bob 07970846992

Spring Fayre and Plant Sale

Apr 1 Visitor Centre, Ford Park Cemetery from 11am to 2.30pm. Details 01752 665442.

Magical Bones: Soulful Magic

Apr 2

Magician Magical Bones brings his show to The Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 7.30pm. Britain’s Got Talent finalist takes to the road with awe-inspiring and high energy magic. Tickets from www.tickettailor.com/events/ comicalentertainment/784365

Francis Rossi - Tunes & Chat

Apr 14

Status Quo legend Francis Rossi is taking up his acoustic guitar to bring a selection of wellknown hits and some previously not-performed-live-before tunes at The Quad Theatre on the Marjon University campus at 7.30pm. It’ll be a unique evening in which Francis will reprise fan favourites from a remarkable 50+ year career. Expect original-style, acoustic versions of Quo classics, threaded together with chat in this music based evening. VIP packages are available for those wishing to meet Francis before the show. Tickets at www. comicalentertainment.com

Model Railway Exhibition

Apr 15 and 16

Organised by Saltash Rotary Club at the restored Saltash Station Building – Isambard House – by kind permission of Saltash Town Council. There will be five 00 scale model layouts, pictures from local artists, Brunel Heritage talks, crafts trade stand and a ride-on loco provided by Plym Valley Railway. Admission is free with refreshments available. For ease of parking a shuttle bus provided by Community Enterprise PL12 will run hourly from Saltash Leisure Centre to Isambard House and return. Details at www. saltashrotary.org

Hear Better ‘Mini’ Exhibition

May 4

Free hearing loss exhibition designed for individuals and hearing professionals to find out more about the latest technology and local support available to assist people with hearing loss in daily life. To be held at the Copthorne Hotel from 10.30am to 3pm. There will be an NHS Re-tube clinic and British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreter from 10.30am to 1pm. For more information contact Sensory Solutions, Improving Lives Plymouth 01752 201899.

Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival

May 14

One of the South West’s most popular running events with half marathon, 10k and 5k distances as well as team challenges and Primary Schools Challenge. Enter now at www.runplymouth.co.uk

Plymouth Pirates Weekend

May 20 and 21

Swashbuckling fun for all th family around the Barbican, Sutton Harbour and waterfront. This popular event is one of the highlights of the year in Plymouth and draws thousands of people to the waterfront to enjoy the spectacle.

Send details of your event to info@cornerstonevision. com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.

St Luke’s Hospice is staging its popular Men’s Day Out fundraiser on March 11

Milo

Osteopathy

Osteopaths don't just treat back pain! Osteopaths are specialists in musculoskeletal health. Understanding the body how to enable it’s healing. By using a combination of massage, mobilisation and exercise therapy to treat problems at the cause and prevent their return.

Plymouth vet to run London Marathon to raise funds for SSAFA charity

Popular Plymouth vet Edmund Shillabear, who is 83, will be competing in the London Marathon in April to raise funds for SSAFA, the armed forces charity.

Edmund is the oldest runner for the charity and also one of the most experienced extreme athletes.

Edmund, who has veterinary surgeries in Peverell and Elburton is no stranger to the gruelling 42.2 kilometre challenge across London.

He said: “I ran my first marathon more than 50 years ago in 1971. I have finished more Plymouth Marathons than anyone else and I ran the very first London Marathon and the 25th one. I have run a few other London ones but I can’t remember which years!”

Edmund has a few secrets that contribute towards his phenomenal success. For one, he trains with five times British Racewalking Olympian, Chris Maddox and has a specific training style.

He explained: “Over 90 per cent of my training sessions are done at maximum intensity, a policy forced on me by lack of training time and nurtured by my best friend and oftentimes training partner Chris ‘Mad Max’ Maddocks. My Christian Faith has also helped me through numerous challenges.

“My competitors never believe me when I told them my low training mileage!”

Ed has also completed Ironman challenges and quadrathons – swimming, cycling, walking and running.

Edmund explained that his impressive athleticism was due to regular consumption of a full range of organic supplements and a lack of any modern sports science methodology or coaching.

Although, being a veterinary surgeon, Edmund knows his way around bodies and their capabilities. He’s put his skills to good use and is a shining example of what may be possible in later life.

He said: “When I entered the Fosters’ Quadrathon – which consisted of a 2.4 mile sea swim, 51km walk, 112 mile hilly cycling stage, finished off with a full marathon – 100 qualified to enter, 81 started, 64 finished, and as the oldest competitor I was third!”

“The winner had trained in the Himalayas and second place went to an ex SAS man who full time trained, and I came third. I took the week leading up to the event off, otherwise I was working full time.”

To make a donation to Edmund’s chosen charity, follow this link: https://2023tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/ pf/edmund-shillabeer

Green light given for 550 homes at Coypool

Plymouth City Council has approved unanimously Coypool Park, a Homes England development of over 500 homes on the former site of the china clay drying works.

A masterplan by LDA Design with CampbellReith and The Environment Partnership will transform the steep derelict site on the edge of Plymouth into a welcoming, imaginative, and attractive landscape-led community that is properly integrated into the wider neighbourhood.

The development of up to 550 homes includes affordable housing, 60 homes for older persons living and nearly 40 acres of high-quality accessible woodland.

Overlooking the Plym Valley, Coypool Park will be defined by its relationship to its woodland setting, originally planted to

screen industrial activity but now to be managed to provide the neighbourhood with a remarkable recreational asset that also delivers biodiversity net gain through enhanced added flora and fauna. A Design Code outlines how the woodland character will be drawn into the residential streets and play areas.

NEXT EVENT...

Reverend Dr Andy Hardy

What hope is there for those looking for answers to the deeper questions of life? Many people are asking this, both those in the church and those with no church affiliation. Andy Hardy is an experienced practical theologian who brings a wealth of knowledge to the subject and communicates his response in a way that is easy for all to understand.

Hear him speak:

Saturday 25th Feb

The King’s, Tavistock PL19 9AZ at 7:30pm

Future plans for children’s centres in Plymouth

Children’s centres in Plymouth will continue their important work supporting families while plans to grow the services they offer in the future are developed thanks to an innovative new programme.

Plymouth City Council will be part of the government’s new Start for Life programme which will see the development of Family Hubs across the country with access to additional funding. The aim of the hubs is to provide a joined-up service that’s easy to access for families with children of all ages, where they can find the information, advice and guidance they need.

Sunday 26th Feb

The King’s, Tavistock PL19 9AZ 10:30am

The Worship Centre

Estover, PL6 7LF 7:30pm

Coypool will be well served by sustainable transport, reducing reliance on travelling by car. A bus service linked to the adjoining Park&Ride will provide a frequent service into the city centre, and the adjacent Drake’s Cycle Trail will enable people to reach the city centre and join the SUSTRANS National Cycle network.

Paul Connelly, a director at LDA Design and project lead for Coypool Park, explained the rationale behind the scheme. “We don’t want Coypool to be one of a kind – we want it to establish a

benchmark for new landscapeled brownfield communities. The masterplan will create a sociable place to live, for all ages, but one that is also well connected to the wider landscape and the city beyond. It combines creative urban design with innovative engineering to turn environmental challenges into great placemaking opportunities, in particular in the imaginative use of woodland.”

The plans have been developed in close consultation with the Neighbourhood Forum, who have endorsed them. The proposals are designed to benefit existing residents by improving access to community facilities and sustainable transport links and be providing access to the extensive woodland green space. Homes England has now appointed BDW Trading Ltd as their delivery partner to bring the development to fruition.

Barnardo’s, Action for Children and LARK who currently run the children’s centres in Plymouth will have their contracts renewed from April 2023 for an additional two years. The new contracts will see a change to the way services are delivered over time as the city moves towards developing the new multi-agency Family Hubs. Some buildings used by the children’s centres are already shared with partners, such as midwives and health visitors, so options to consolidate locations and create more opportunities to co-locate are being considered to make savings, while still making sure they meet the needs of local families.

A statutory consultation will soon be taking place to get families’ views on the changes, which aim to make sure that spaces are used efficiently and that the help available from the centres is easily accessible to those who need it.

Children’s centres currently support families with children from birth to five years old, whereas Family Hubs will bring more services together and expand this offer to support those with children aged from 0 to 19, or up to 25 years old for young people with special educational needs or disabilities.

Councillor Charlotte Carlyle, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children and Young People said: “We know that providing local families with the help and support they need as early as we possibly can makes a real difference and helps to give children the best possible start in life. Our children’s centres have a vital role to play in this network, offering a welcoming and safe space for families where they can access a range of services.

16th Feb - 8am

22nd Feb - 5pm

Tune in on 96.3FM or listen online at bit.ly/CRPlymouthPlayer

For more information email info@fathershouse.org.uk or call 01752 225623

Listen to his interview on Cross Rhythms Plymouth www.fathershouse.org.uk

“I’m delighted that we’re part of the government’s Start for Life programme which will help us to transform these centres into Family Hubs and ensure that joined up help will soon be available. With support for local children from birth right through to their teenage years, we’ll be able to help them grow into happy, healthy adults.”

The council is aiming to launch the first Family Hubs in Plymouth this summer.

FathersHouseSW

Artist’s impression of the woodland setting for Coypool Park Credit: LDA Design

The former china clay drying works - site of the new Coypool Park development Photo credit: Imerys Minerals Limited

Many of Plymouth’s best-loved green spaces are set to benefit from nearly £1 million of funding and help the city tackle the climate emergency.

The money will help continue the work of the Plymouth Natural Grid across six council city sites and two National Trust sites, supporting Natural England to shape national policy.

Plymouth Natural Grid, a partnership project between Plymouth City Council National Trust and Real Ideas, has been working on habitat enhancement and restoration across the city and was due to complete in March 2023.

Over the past year, rangers have helped deliver skills, training and learning opportunities for young people, with Kickstart apprenticeships and short-term accredited learning programmes.

Now, the fund of £966,000 will help with extend the project further, with Ham Woods, Seaton Valley, Efford Marsh, Radford Woods, Newnham Meadow and Saltram all set for attention.

The project team will focus on conservation and habitat improvements based on rewilding and nature restoration across the sites and will be pioneering the science of understanding how we can achieve carbon savings. To support this, the Natural England team will be conducting scientific experiments to understand the levels of carbon that these improvements lock up in the soil.

In addition, four new apprentices will have the opportunity to learn key skills on urban green spaces across the city. There will also be a programme of community engagement to ensure that neighbours of the sites stay connected to their local nature reserve. Councillor Bill Wakeham, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Street Scene, said: “I’m very pleased to see this important project extended.

“Community engagement with local nature reserves is absolutely essential for their long-term success and I look forward to seeing scores of families discovering and emotionally investing in the wonderful natural world that is on their doorstep.”

Councillor James Stoneman, Cabinet member for Climate Change, added: “From a climate point of view, I’m very pleased to see the Council working with Natural England on a national project to tackle the climate emergency. It is fabulous to get both the local benefits and contribute to the global challenge”

More information on the work of the Plymouth Natural Grid can be found at www. plymouth.gov.uk/plymouth-natural-grid-project

Tasty treat at Plymouth’s Bistro Pierre

French restaurant Bistrot Pierre opened its doors to a party of pensioners all nominated from its partner charity Age UK Plymouth, to enjoy a free three-course meal.

In a charitable initiative held in the run-up to Christmas, Bistrot Pierre donated a free meal to a resident, carer or charity-user for every Sunday Christmas party booking of six people of more – which resulted in 30 free lunches for local Plymouth-based residents in January.

Age UK Plymouth has been supporting over 50s in Plymouth for eight decades, with activities and drop-in advice clinics taking place across the city.

David Wood, Age UK Plymouth chief executive said: “We are so very grateful to Bistrot Pierre for selecting our organisation for this wonderful scheme. It really was fantastic to host a group from across our many services and share an afternoon with clients from our Day Centres, Veterans

Projects, community social groups and of course, some of our wonderful and dedicated volunteers.

“We also want to thank the public for choosing to have their Christmas meals at the restaurant and supporting the Pay it Forward scheme.”

Age UK Plymouth is one of 17 local charities that Bistrot Pierre has partnered with nationally in this initiative - all chosen for their support of older people in their communities, from befriending schemes and dementia-focused musical programmes to housing and sight assistance initiatives.

Matthew De Sousa, general manager of Bistrot Pierre Plymouth said: “Our initiative has been designed to support those most in need in our local areas.

“January can be a challenging time of year for any resident, but for the most vulnerable amongst us, there has never been more need for communities to open their doors and welcome our residents in.

“We really enjoyed welcoming each and

every guest from Age UK Plymouth for a much-needed treat, a warm meal and an opportunity to create lasting memories.”

Free hedgehog houses on offer to schools and nurseries – thanks to college student

City College Plymouth is offering free hedgehog houses to schools, nurseries and care homes that might wish to provide the prickly animals with somewhere safe and snug to sleep.

Thanks to a scheme spearheaded by a 17-year-old student, the college has ten flatpack hedgehog houses that are easy to assemble and perfect for providing these cute creatures with a safe and secure home, where some might even raise a litter of hoglets.

Oliwia Ignac, who is studying for a T Level in Onsite Construction, has had the opportunity to develop her skills in computer-aided design through this project, and she said she is pleased that her work could have such a positive impact on local wildlife.

Oliwia said: “This initially started as a small project, but after receiving requests for houses from other departments at the college, we looked at how we could produce these on a

bigger scale. Luckily, the college has a Kimla CNC machine at its Centre for Higher Technical Innovation and Maritime Skills, which I was shown how to use by one of the lecturers, and this equipment can take my design and produce the houses really quickly.

“I hope schools, nurseries and

care homes take up the offer - it is exciting to think people will be getting such enjoyment from the work I have been completing as part of my T Level qualification.”

Sean Stupples, construction lecturer at the college, said: “The flatpack houses are really quick and easy to assemble, so even young pupils can get involved

if a teacher wanted to receive a house as part of a class project.

“The college has big plans to become more sustainable as a site but is also looking at other ways we can contribute to protecting the environment. Oliwia spent some time researching the essential elements for a good hedgehog house: small entrance to keep it safe from predators, and she’s ensured that the house will withstand bad weather.”

The college is considering scaling up this scheme and offering the houses to the general public and would be interested in hearing from people who might wish to order a house in return for a donation to a local wildlife charity. The college is also appealing to anyone who might have spare MDF they wish to donate to the project. Contact the college via Sean’s e-mail, sstuples@cityplym.ac.uk to request one of the hedgehog houses, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to begin with.

South West Water’s £4 price increase for 2023/24

South West Water is keeping increases to its average household bill for water and wastewater services for 2023/24 well below inflation, alongside record levels of investment.

The company has announced that the average bill will be increasing by less than £5, to ensure they remain affordable during the cost-of-living crisis.

The average household bill for water and wastewater services for 2023/24 will be £476, compared to £472 last year.

South West Water’s chief customer and digital officer, Laura Flowerdew said: “We understand

the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis for our customers, which is why we have worked hard to minimise any increases. We strive to help any customers who need it, and we encourage any customers who are worried about their bill to get in touch and see what additional support we can offer.”

While South West Water’s first focus is always on keeping bills low, it is also undertaking a wide range of initiatives to help customers during these challenging times. This year the company has supported customers with £68 million of benefits, providing a range of support measures for customers struggling to pay their bills and vulnerable customers, with over 79,000 customers

expected to access financial support between April 2020 and April 2023.

As the largest employer in the region, South West Water can help in other ways too, having just announced plans to double its apprenticeship and graduate programmes to 1,000 by 2030, and offering 5,000 work placements for children over the same period.

By April this year 42,000 customers will have been taken out of water poverty through South West Water’s support tariffs as part of its industryleading ambition to eradicate water poverty by 2025.

Customers will also continue to benefit from the £50 Government Contribution for 2023/24.

Residents in Plymouth will need to show photographic ID to vote in person at this year’s local elections which are being held on May 4. It is the first time this has been a requirement.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a full or provisional UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers’ licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass and a blue badge.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID can now apply online at www.gov.uk/ apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate or by completing a paper form which is available from the council. The deadline to apply for this ID is April 25.

Anyone who wants to vote in the local elections this May, must be registered to vote by April 17. For those who aren’t already registered it only takes five minutes to register online at www.plymouth. gov.uk/voting-and-elections.

Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote.

More information on registering to vote, what voter ID will be accepted or how to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate is available on the Plymouth City Council website. Anyone not able to visit the council website, or apply for a Voter Authority Certificate online, can contact the council by calling 01752 30486 or emailing ero@plymouth. gov.uk.

Tracey Lee, returning officer for Plymouth, said:

“Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it.

“With elections taking place in Plymouth on May 4, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they are registered to vote and have an accepted form of ID. It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.”

Voters will be able to use expired ID as long as the photo remains a good enough likeness to the elector, and the name on the ID is the same name as appears on the Electoral Register.

The changes do not affect postal votes but do affect proxy voters who will be required to show their own valid ID when voting on behalf of someone else.

Voters will have to provide ID at the council elections in May

Student Oliwia Ignac with Sean Stupples, construction lecturer (left), and Dan Burnard, programme area manager for Construction

Local construction and manufacturing apprentices’ achievements celebrated

Outstanding local construction and manufacturing apprentices have been recognised for their efforts and abilities at an awards ceremony held as part of Plymouth’s National Apprenticeship Week 2023.

The Awards were presented jointly by Building Plymouth and the Plymouth Manufacturers’ Group (PMG), with nominations submitted by local employers and training providers, with nearly 40 finalist apprentices celebrated and 17 overall winners presented top awards.

Lucy Edwards was awarded the prestigious Building Plymouth Construction Technical Apprentice of the Year 2023. Lucy is undertaking a Higher Level 4 in Construction Quantity Surveying Technician with Ian Williams and City College Plymouth

On winning her award Lucy Edwards said: “It was a privilege to have been nominated and I was so proud to have received the award. I am looking forward to using this platform to be an ambassador for apprenticeships and also to promote diversity for the industry as a whole.”

David Mears won the highly respected Ron Simmonds Construction Trade Apprentice of the Year 2023 Award. David is undertaking an Intermediate Level 2 in Bricklaying with Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon and City College Plymouth.

David said: “I feel very honoured to receive the Apprentice of the Year award and I’m very proud of what I have achieved so far during my apprenticeship. I thoroughly enjoy working for Persimmon Homes and I’m looking forward to developing my skills and gaining further experience, so I can become a qualified and competent tradesman.”

Enthusiasm

The PMG Apprentice of the Year Awards were sponsored by Make UK, of which Jim Davison, Make UK’s region director for the South of England was on the judging panel. The judges commented that amongst the nominations, there were apprentices who had transitioned with enthusiasm from a previous career, showed willingness to learn, some had taken on extra responsibilities, acted as ambassadors for their business and supported others, some received numerous endorsements, portrayed exemplary professional attitudes, and consistently exceeded expectations.

The first of the PMG Apprentice Awards was the Business Rising Star Apprentice for 2023 – which went to Nicola Mundy of Babcock. Nicola is training as a Higher Level Quality Assurance apprentice with Capella and said: “It is such an honour to be entered into the awards. To be recognised by management to be worthy of being entered into the awards and then to win, feels like a great achievement and I am very grateful to be recognised for the effort I am putting into my apprenticeship.”

Also from Babcock was the Winner of the PMG Final Year Business Apprentice of the Year Award, Laura Stephens, who is a supply chain apprentice training with the ATN Group. Gemma Selley, executive lead for the PMG, said: “Babcock is our PMG member with the largest number of employees in Plymouth. For Nicola and Laura to be nominated and win, is a credit to their hard work and shows

just how much they have stood out to their colleagues and managers. Congratulations to Nicola and Laura!”

In the Manufacturing Rising Star Awards there were incredibly strong nominations and ultimately Matt Pope of Schneider Electric was chosen as winner in this category.

Matt is a mechanical manufacturing apprentice training with City College Plymouth.

Matt said: “I was really honoured to have been nominated let alone win! The team at Schneider has been very supportive in my professional development – there’s so much happening in our industry, adapting to new technology and methods, so I’m really looking forward to an exciting future in manufacturing.”

For the PMG Final Year Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year Awards, the judges declared two joint winners: Chloe Tremayne Payne of Mars Wrigley and Stephen Tillyer of BD.

Chloe, a shift mechanic who is training with Cornwall College said of her win: “It was an honour to be a joint winner for the apprentice of the year awards. I have strong sense of pride in my work at Mars Wrigley and it feels amazing to know that it doesn’t go unnoticed.

“It has given me the motivation to carry on striving to do the best and seek improvement opportunities to help carry on progressing

in my career. Being an apprentice at Mars Wrigley has given me the opportunities to be able to win this award and I couldn’t have done it without my mentors and engineering team.”

Stephen, a moulding apprentice who is also training with Cornwall College, said: “To be a manufacturing apprentice at BD, means to work in an environment in which your development is encouraged and supported through the many learning opportunities that present themselves.

“I’m extremely grateful to have been nominated for the award - to be recognised by my mentors and leaders at work means a lot to me and is a huge accomplishment on its own.”

Introducing the apprentice awards ceremony, Councillor Charlotte Carlyle, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children and Young People at Plymouth City Council said: “It has been incredibly inspiring to watch all the finalist and winning apprentices collect their awards. Inspirational to see such an array of different backgrounds, yet united under the banner of being apprentices, all working hard towards their futures.

“Through investment in apprenticeships, the individuals, employers and economy all win, with Plymouth ever growing to deliver a skilled future workforce.”

Karen Friendship, managing director at Aldermans and Chair of the Plymouth Manufacturers’ Group said: “From the time of our first awards, we have learnt that when an apprentice is nominated, it is a huge morale boost for them. They tell us they are absolutely thrilled that their employer took the time to consider who should be nominated and put them forward for the awards. It is our role, as managers, to champion the talent in our companies and recognise our apprentices’ hard-work and passion for our sector – after all we are looking to them to be future leaders in our businesses. This is why these awards are so important

”Therefore on behalf of the PMG, I would like to convey huge congratulations to our award winners, commended nominees and finalists and express our thanks to our members for helping to create pride in our industry. We wish all our apprentices the most enriching of futures!”

Oustanding

Presenting the construction apprentice awards, David Bayliss, regional director at Stride Treglown and Chair of Building Plymouth said: “I was delighted and honoured to be able to present the awards to the outstanding apprentices we have in the local Construction and Built Environment industry. It is great to see such a diverse range of skills being recognised and the pride everyone showed in winning their awards.

“It certainly felt that the industry is in a good place and is attracting such talented people to build their careers in a fantastic diverse range of roles. Building Plymouth has championed the various pathways to the work environment through many different routes and this is testament to its success in promoting construction as a career of choice.”

At the awards ceremony, the Finalist, Highly Commended and Winning construction and manufacturing apprentices were all celebrated for their success and commended for the high standards they have shown in their achievements and skills developed during their apprenticeships.

To find out more about securing an apprenticeship in Plymouth and to download the latest Vacancy Bulletin visit www. skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk/youth-hubapprenticeship

Lucy Edwards, Construction Technical Apprentice of the Year

David Mears, Construction Trade Apprentice of the Year

Winners and industry leaders at the awards ceremony

PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

Green Tourism Awards for three Plymouth businesses

Plymouth businesses are flying the flag for the city’s sustainability mission, celebrating fresh success with more Green Tourism awards.

A further three businesses have been recognised for their commitment to the initiative – a partnership between Green Tourism and Destination Plymouth – which supports Plymouth’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism and helps businesses across the area achieve sustainable growth.

Among the latest to be accredited are Destination Plymouth members, The Cottages at Blackadon Farm at Moorhaven, Ivybridge – the first to win Gold in the Green Tourism awards. The business has since been shortlisted in four categories of the Devon Tourism Awards, including the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable section.

Co-owner Ryan Lynch said: “Our location, just outside Plymouth and in Dartmoor National Park, is very special and means we have a strong desire to be stewards for the environment. The scheme has allowed us to understand the progress we’ve made to be green, identify ways to share ideas and best practices with others and continue our journey to do more for the planet. Kudos to Plymouth for driving this initiative and setting an example to other cities around the country!”

Plymouth’s first luxury hotel, the historic The Duke of Cornwall, and Plymouth Boat Trips were both awarded Bronze status.

Peter Adams, general manager of the Duke of Cornwall Hotel said: “We are delighted to have been awarded a Bronze Award for Green Tourism and Green Meetings!

“It’s very important to us that we do what we can to protect our environment, so it was an easy decision to engage with the Green Tourism Accreditation Programme to achieve this award. It’s encouraging to see so many other Plymouth businesses do the same, as it’s an extremely strong and positive message to promote to help us drive domestic and business tourism visitors to Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City!

“This year the hotel celebrates its 160th anniversary, so whilst it can be challenging with the age and size of our building to achieve greater energy efficiency; we have been able to identify areas for change and improve processes where we can, and has now been proven, to be more sustainable. We are now working towards Silver!”

Plymouth Boat Trips’ owner Dom Squire said: “As a business operating within the National Marine Park and at the forefront of zero-emission vessel design, it is important to us that we do all

we can to reduce our impact on the environment. This award is part of an ongoing sustainability journey for Plymouth Boat Trips and will help us benchmark our position and monitor progress as we endeavour to reduce emissions and work towards a greener Ocean City in the future.”

Almost 50 businesses across Britain’s Ocean City’s tourism, leisure, cultural, heritage and hospitality sectors have signed up for the internationally-recognised Green Tourism programme. The Mariners Guest House, Jury’s Inn (now Leonardo Hotel), Bovey Sand Lodge Holiday Park and the New Continental Hotel were the first to achieve accreditation. And for others interested in joining, the opportunity to take advantage of fully-funded registration onto the programme was extended until the end of 2022.

Those taking part receive free expert support to help them reach their sustainability goals and gain the internationally-recognised Green Tourism Standard.

The programme includes a series of webinars with Green Tourism showing the benefits of enhancing sustainability practices to attract the rapidly expanding, green-minded tourism and corporate events sector.

More participants are currently in line for green accreditation but businesses which have applied are being urged to ensure they have submitted their green check assessments by the deadline in order to ensure they are considered for awards and receive the benefit of a fully funded second year too.

Amanda Lumley, Destination Plymouth’s chief executive, said: “The more businesses that sign up, the better for Plymouth. Not only does each business benefit by becoming more sustainable but the reputation of the whole city and surrounding area is enhanced as a sustainable destination. We want to help as many businesses as possible to achieve the internationally recognised Green Tourism Standard and encourage all those who are considering the scheme to join us in striving for the highest standards possible.“

Plymouth Sound is also home to the UK’s first National Marine Park, which enables a new collaboration between ocean, heritage and City. The National Marine Park will foster positive behaviours for individuals and businesses alike and aims at transforming the lives of every single person in the community of Plymouth through engagement with the city’s maritime heritage, landscape and nature and in turn promote sustainability and protect and conserve the marine environment.

For businesses wishing to find out more about this important environmental and sustainable opportunity and to apply directly, please visit www. visitplymouth.co.uk/green-tourism

BUSINESSES URGED TO SUPPORT CARE LEAVERS

Businesses and organisations in Plymouth are being urged to follow Barnardo’s and NHS Professionals, and sign up to the Care Leaver Covenant and offer support to a care experienced young person by offering apprenticeships, work experience, and free or discounted goods or services.

As part of its commitment to promoting equality the city council offer guaranteed interviews to those if they meet the essential criteria and are considered disabled, or have been in Plymouth City Council care.

The Care Leaver Covenant is a national programme that supports care leavers aged 16 to 25 to live independently.

The Covenant works with the council to create opportunities for care leavers in a number of ways

and aims to make Plymouth the best place for care experienced children and young people to live, to grow up and be supported for when they are ready to leave care.

Care leavers have dedicated personal advisors, who can help provide information on what the Covenant offers to them.

The aim of the Care Leaver Covenant, to which organisations commit, is to provide additional support for those leaving care; making available a different type of support and expertise from that provided by local authorities.

So far the Covenant have created over 2,000 opportunities covering employment, training, support, free tickets, discounts, giveaways and help with DIY! Some of these will be local and some will be national. Opportunities can be found

on the website mycovenant.org.uk

The Covenant will support organisations by making contact and providing training, advice and guidance on the best way to support the young person.

Councillor Charlotte Carlyle, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children and Young People, said: “The Care Leaver Covenant is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to support our care leavers who are looking to get their foot in the door and to support them with the next step in their journey. We are appealing to the people of Plymouth to get involved and pledge their support, to sign up and offer a care leaver the opportunity to broaden their horizons and support them in their next step in life.”

For more information visit mycovenant.org.uk

Dom Squire of Plymouth Boat Trips (left) receives the Green Tourism Award from Glen Gardner, Cruise New Business Development Manager & Sustainable Tourism Project Manager for Destination Plymouth

Peter Adams, general manager of The Duke of Cornwall Hotel

Eventfull year ahead for the city

From pirates to pyrotechnics, live music to military moments and food festivals to family fun, Plymouth’s 2023 calendar is jam-packed with popular events.

Each year, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and Plymouth City Centre Company work together to offer a buzzing events programme which also includes supporting independent organisers to host events in the city.

Councillor Pat Patel, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to announce the epic line-up of events taking place throughout 2023. It’s a great way to attract new visitors into Plymouth, who will spend money in the city and boost the local economy, positioning Plymouth as a lively, vibrant city with lots going on.

“With such a range of awesome events on offer, including best-selling bands coming to Britain’s Ocean City, it’s looking to be a busy year. Here are all the key dates you need for your diaries.”

Inspired by the high seas, Plymouth Pirates Weekend will fill the Barbican, Sutton Harbour and waterfront with two days of swashbuckling fun with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy (May 20 and 21).

Foodie fans are in for a real treat this year too. Flavour Fest (May 26 to 28) is the South West’s largest free food and drink festival, with hundreds of local producers selling tasty treats and a chef stage with regional cookery stars showcasing their skills.

Later in the year, the Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival (September 16 and 17) will celebrate all that is great about the city’s stunning waterfront and fishing industry.

There’s also an impressive line-up of live music to enjoy over the summer.

The August Summer Bank Holiday weekend will see the 1 Big Summer music festival take to Plymouth Hoe (August 25 and 26), with the lineup set to include a range of music including the fabulous Ibiza Orchestra.

Plymouth is set to host more global music superstars, at Home Park Stadium, including Devon’s very own Muse (May 27) and Kiss with their End of the Road Tour (June 3).

The Big Tribute Festival will be returning to Central Park, with an even bigger and better lineup than last year, hosting an impressive range of talented tribute acts (August 11 to 13). The party continues with Live in the Park (August 16 to 20) featuring a range of original and tribute artists to enjoy.

Another popular event coming back to Plymouth Hoe this year is Armed Forces Day, in association with Babcock (June 24). It’s a great opportunity for everyone to show their support for the military community. The day includes a packed programme of entertainment, military equipment and displays, interactive activities, parades and live music. The day will finish with an awesome free evening concert, where visitors can enjoy an amazing line up of performances to dance and sing-a-long to.

The Rehabilitation Triathlon hosted by the Royal Navy Recovery Centre Hasler (June 22) will also take place in the city, with outstanding athletes – Paralympians and Invictus Games competitors among them - competing in this tough event. The triathlon is made up of a swim in Tinside Lido, cycling time trials and static rowing on Plymouth Hoe.

The popular British Firework Championships are one of the highlights of the 2023 events calendar in Plymouth

up to

For those who enjoy participating in sport, or looking for a new challenge this year, the Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival (May 14), includes the Plymouth Half, 10k and 5k, offering something for runners of all abilities.

For the motorcycle enthusiast, visit the Ocean City Motorcycle Festival, incorporating the Ocean City Bike Show (August 12) and The MegaRide, (August 13), hugely popular motorcycle ride, starting at Lee Mill and raises money for charity, including South West Blood Bikes.

Look to the skies in August as the British Firework Championships (August 16 and 17) sees six pyrotechnic companies showcase their very best work in six epic ten-minute displays, as they compete to be crowned the nation’s best.

Later in the month, the West End Carnival (August 26) will return to the city centre offering a full day of carnival flair. Expect live music, street performers and free children’s activities to enjoy, and take time to explore the city’s independent quarter at the same time.

Circus Berlin will also bring their high energy, music and brilliant circus acts to Central Park, (September 6 to 23).

There’s a huge range of cultural activity planned for 2023 too, including a series of public artworks in locations across the city plus a top-class programme of exhibitions and events at The Box. Plymouth Pride is set to take place on Saturday August 5 and the location will be announced in due course.

For all the latest details about what’s on in Plymouth, including information about smaller events taking place throughout the year, please see visitplymouth.co.uk

Could you deliver the Plymouth Chronicle?

Call to nominate Plymouth’s awesome and amazing sheroes

Trevi, the leading women’s charity in Plymouth, is asking people to recognise and celebrate remarkable women to mark International Women’s Day in March.

The charity describes a Shero as a female hero who deserves to be recognised and celebrated for social, economic, cultural and political achievements.

Trevi’s popular Shero campaign returns for a third year. It is an opportunity for people to pay it forward, shout out loud and celebrate the awesomeness of their much appreciated and loved Sheroes, plus raise funds to support women and their children affected by domestic abuse and violence.

Trevi is encouraging a small donation to the charity for nominations who will receive a personalised certificate, message and badge to wear with pride. A selection of unique merchandise is also available to purchase, including Shero t-shirts, tote bags and hoodies.

Carrie Tecza, engagement officer at Trevi said: “The campaign is designed for people to be able to recognise and shout about any women who make a difference in their life – from the smallest of things they may do to some of the fantastic work we see being done in our communities by women.

“We feel especially this year with the cost of living crisis people have a unique opportunity to recognise those women who have gone above and beyond in their community to support others. This includes opening their home as a warm space, volunteering at a food bank or ensuring an elderly neighbour has enough food and heat. We want to hear about them all!

“We believe that there are many special women out there this year who deserve mention!”

Examples of previous Sheroes included mums, nans, sisters, best friends, teachers, volunteers and even inspirational celebrities!

This year Trevi hopes to smash last year’s nominations and aims to raise £5000 in donations.

Alongside the many amazing nominations

last year, there were several celebrity supporter including superstar TV presenter Stacey Dooley and social media influencer Rachael Hambleton, AKA Part-Time Working Mummy, who continues to support the charity with campaigns.

This year, Trevi staff and beneficiaries have recognised Plymouth’s Lord Mayor, Cuncillor Sue Dann as their Shero for her work in raising vital funds for the charity.

Cllr Sue Dann said:”Being nominated as a Trevi Shero is such an unexpected and very humbling award. As a person, a councillor and Lord Mayor, I find it so enjoyable and rewarding working with charities and volunteers who help people. Trevi work and support women and their families to make changes and create a future for themselves, it’s a joy to be part of the story.”

Trevi continues to work tirelessly to support women and children who are affected by domestic violence and abuse daily – providing safe and

nurturing spaces for women and their families to heal, grow and thrive.

This year marks Trevi’s 30th anniversary and a unique opportunity to celebrate the women and children whose lives there charity has helped transform over three decades.

From humble beginnings Trevi has blossomed into a well-respected charity, now supporting more than 700 vulnerable women in the city each year. It is regarded as a leader in the fight to end violence against women and girls, and continues to affect change in how local communities work together towards making towns and cities safer for women and girls.

The focus remains on ensuring essential services are made available for women affected by domestic abuse and violence across Plymouth and beyond.

Vikki, a Trevi peer mentor, has been recognised as a 2023 Shero. She said: “When I found out someone had nominated me for a Shero award it made me feel so appreciated, I’m really honoured to be a 2023 Shero. I’m going to nominate a friend of mine now and surprise her!”

This year’s campaign is supported by Plymouthbased candle company Devon Wick. Craig Ryder, managing director said: “We’re supporting Trevi’s Shero campaign this year to celebrate women’s achievements.

“As a large number of our customers are women, we thought this would be a perfect opportunity to support this campaign. We’ve previously raised money for Trevi, and we’ve come up with an idea to help again. This year we’ve got a limited edition wax melt with £1 per wax melt going to Trevi so they can continue to help and support women.’

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is #EmbraceEquity: challenging gender stereotypes, calling out discrimination, drawing attention to bias, and seeking out inclusion.

Trevi Shero’s campaign continues to grow, celebrating women everywhere. To nominate and donate visit trevi.org.uk/trevi-sheroes/

LUXURY CINEMA TO OPEN AT ROYAL WILLIAM YARD

A whole new cinematic and leisure experience will soon be unveiled in Plymouth, as Everyman confirms its arrival at Royal William Yard this year.

The new luxury cinema is currently under construction within the iconic Grade I listed Melville building, and is expected to open its doors this summer.

This opening will mark the arrival of Everyman – which is an independent network of boutique cinemas – to the South West. It will take up residence in the grand Georgian Melville building at the centre of Royal William Yard, which has been brought back to life by regeneration specialists Urban Splash.

A busy programme of work over the coming months will see the historic space transformed to create a waterfront cinema like no other, blending classic architecture with a modern interior. Everyman is known for its unique lifestyle approach offering outstanding customer service in a stylish and sumptuous setting.

Emily Jones, commercial director of Urban Splash, said: “Years in the planning, we are

thrilled to announce that Everyman will soon premiere its incredible offering at Royal William Yard. Becoming the first home to Everyman in the South West is a big deal and it couldn’t be a better setting; surrounded by the sea and spoilt for choice for places to eat, drink and stay.

“Already a hugely popular destination, Royal William Yard now becomes the place to be for leisure, with a huge amount to discover and do, day and night.”

Trevi peer mentor Vikki - 2023 Shero

The new cinema will be located in the historic Melville building and (left) typical interior of an Everyman cinema

Charities benefit from motor retailer’s diamond anniversary

Plymouth-based bereavement charity Jeremiah’s Journey is among six Westcountry charities to each receive a £10,000 boost to their coffers thanks to motor retailer Snow’s Group who have a Toyota outlet at Langage in Plympton.

To mark the company’s 60th birthday SnowsMission60 was launched to raise £60,000 to be split among charities chosen by the company’s staff.

Colleagues were given the opportunity to nominate local charities to be considered as part of Mission 60, and after a final companywide vote the charities chosen were: Second Chance Animal Rescue,

A whole range of fundraising activities were staged throughout 2022, including hair shaves, football matches and a 600 mile static cycling challenge to name just a few.

The beneficiary charities are now being presented with their cheques, with the one here being presented recently to Jeremiah’s Journey outside Snow’s Langage showrooms.

A spokesperson for the company said: “We know the money raised will be going directly back into helping the people and communities who have supported us over the last 60 years.”

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

From college to career - the course that is changing lives

A ground-breaking partnership between City College Plymouth and Princess Yachts has helped the world-renowned yacht builder recruit five outfitters as a direct result of a new, intensive course delivered at the college.

In April 2022, the college delivered a brand-new, ten-week course to support Princess Yachts with growing and diversifying its workforce after seeing huge levels of growth both in the UK and further afield. As the city’s anchor provider of skills, this course is part of the college’s commitment to addressing Plymouth’s skills gap.

First to enrol were career-changers Jess Langston and Sam Lever, both 23 at the time, who acquired a plethora of skills such as fitting bulkheads and matrices, scribing, and the safe and correct use of an array of carpentry and joinery tools.

After completing the course, Jess and Sam were both offered the opportunity to complete a short skills assessment at Princess Yachts and were subsequently offered jobs with the company. Now, both Sam and Jess are full-time employees, enjoying a good wage, a four-day working week and - most importantly to them both - career progression opportunities.

At the time, Jess said: “I was in a job that I felt wasn’t going anywhere when I found this course online. Knowing how valuable carpentry skills are, I saw this as a really good opportunity to start a new career with great prospects.

“I’m over the moon to be offered a job with Princess Yachts. The ten weeks went really quickly and I’m excited to be at the start of a new career that offers long-term progression.

I’m also really looking forward to a better work-life balance as a result of the four-day week that Princess Yachts offers. I’m really pleased I took up this opportunity and would recommend it to others.”

Since then, another three recruits have joined Princess Yachts having successfully completed the Boat Outfitting Skills course, which is delivered at the college’s Picquet venue. In addition to the opportunity to join

Free parking to remain at short stay car parks

Plymouth City Council has confirmed that free parking will not be impacted by the installation of new parking terminals in short-stay district car parks, contrary to rumours on social media.

New terminals are being installed in short-stay district car parks to help ensure that free spaces continue to be available for shoppers and support local businesses. The new terminals are in response to concerns that some people are overstaying their ‘free time’ allocation and in some cases staying all day. The terminals will simply ensure that people check-in when they arrive and leave at their allotted time.  This will ensure a regular turnover of spaces.

Councillor Richard Bingley, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Having the ability to park for free for a short period of time is a vital to keep our district shopping centres alive.

“But we do need to ensure that people do not abuse this benefit and overstay their allotted time. It isn’t fair on other local shoppers and it isn’t fair on our local businesses.

one of Plymouth’s largest employers, those who complete the course will gain a level 1 City & Guilds diploma.

Lance Chatfield, executive for Technical Innovation at the college, said: “This shortbut-intensive course has the potential to

have a lasting impact on both the maritime industry and the wider Plymouth community, providing opportunities for people to upskill or retrain into an industry with long-lasting careers.

“In just ten weeks, those who sign up to this course could be joining one of Plymouth’s most high-profile businesses with a strong set of skills. For some, this could be life-changing, and we’re really excited to be working with Princess Yachts for the benefit of our local community and economy.”

The course emulates life at Princess Yachts including a four-day-working week, with students expected to attend Monday to Thursday, 7am to 5.15pm.

To apply for this course, which is free for certain groups, visit cityplym.ac.uk and search for the course using the code PYDIW1.

“The new terminals will simply be a way for drivers to check in. We have had similar arrangements in place at the Crownhill car park for over 10 years and it works really well.

“I know that there has been some confusion and a lot of unhelpful misinformation online. So I will be clear –the free parking that is currently available in district car parks is not being reduced or removed. It is being protected.”

The new terminals are being installed at: Alexandra Road, Plymstock Broadway, Church Street, Deans Cross, Haye Road South, Marlborough Street, Morice Street, Mudge Way North, Plympton Ridgeway and West Park car parks. They will be live by April 2023.

Signs will be placed in each car park to let drivers know when the terminals are due be activated and we will be writing to nearby businesses to let them know what is happening and when.

Parking officers will also be on hand when the system goes live in each car park to help explain the new arrangements.

Jeremiah’s Journey, Children’s Hospice Southwest, Rowans Hospice, Naomi House & Jacks Place and Wessex Cancer Trust.

Sam Lever and Jess Langston... first to enrol on the new course

City

photographer’s image selected for Portrait of Britain

An image by a former Arts University Plymouth photography student has been selected for Portrait of Britain 2022, the UK’s biggest annual photography competition.

Logan Davies, who studied at the Arts University from 2017 to 2019, gained an Extended Diploma in photography and his winning image was part of his project ‘Queer Ethology’ exploring the existence, lives and survival of people who have been exiled from society and transformed into fantastical creatures.

Logan, who lives in Ernesettle, is a professional photographer and retoucher who creates narratives through classical portraiture, fashion photography and fine art. He was selected as One to Watch in 2019 by Arts University Plymouth after finishing the Extended Diploma in Photography at the arts university’s Pre-Degree campus.

Since then, Logan has completed a degree in Fashion Photography at Falmouth University, with work featured at Graduate Fashion Week 2022 and published in local newspapers.

Logan said: “Pre-degree study at Arts University Plymouth gave me a great foundation for my craft when I realised that traditional sixth form wasn’t for me. The environment on Pre-Degree Photography really paves the way for young people to develop their creative voice. From the regular crits to being expected to stick work up where it could be seen by others on the walls, I don’t think I would be the photographer that I am today without those experiences.”

Portrait of Britain is coordinated by the British Journal of Photography, the world’s oldest and most influential photography title. Billed as ‘a celebration of identity and an opportunity to rejoice in the diversity of a changing nation,’ Logan and the other winners have had their work exhibited on digital screens nationally.

Logan’s portrait was also featured in the Portrait of Britain Volume 5 book, published by Hoxton Mini Press.

Scouts pledge to clean up graffiti on Mutley Plain

Mutley Plain is being given a spring clean thanks to a pioneering scheme created by a local Scout leader and supported by Mutley Neighbourhood Policing Team and Councillor Charlotte Carlyle.

James Parker, leader of the 9th/21st Scouts based at Tavy Lodge Scout Hall came up with a scheme to clean up unsightly graffiti on Mutley Plain with the backing of local businesses.

His Scouts are pledging to keep buildings graffiti free for six months for businesses who sign up for six months. It is hoped that this will deter graffiti vandals in the future.

Councillor Carlyle said: “Graffiti has become a blight on Mutley Plain, making it look unsightly and generating a fear aspect to the area, which the Scouts hope to remedy.

“This is especially prevalent to Plymouth’s work on supporting the campaign to stop Violence Against Women and Girls and making areas more welcoming and feel safer. They also have volunteers like Chris Wood, candidate for May local elections in Compton Ward, and David Fitzgerald, presenter of Radio Devon Breakfast Show, coming along to help clean up!”

Letters have gone out to businesses asking for their permission for the Scouts to clean the graffiti off the walls, with many already signing up and expressing interest. Businesses which want their buildings graffiti free or to find out more, email charlotte.carlyle@plymouth.gov.uk

Young people’s art competition celebrates the ‘Joy of Drawing’

Drawings by hundreds of young people from across Devon and Cornwall, including three competition winners, have gone on display at The Box.

‘For the Joy of Drawing’ is the end result of a drawing competition organised by the city’s awardwinning museum, art gallery and archive late last year.

Young people from across the region were invited to submit their favourite drawings and The Box received over 550 entries across three different age categories –primary, secondary and 18-25.

A judging panel featuring artists Hannah Quinlan and Rosie Hastings and The Box’s contemporary art curator Nicoletta Lambertucci, had the difficult task of choosing the winners, who were 10-year-old Milo Smith (primary), 12-year-old Leah

Bach (secondary) and 20-year-old Jainey Pickerel (18-25).

All three were invited to The Box to receive their prizes and certificates. Their winning drawings are now on display alongside a selection of many of the other wonderfully imaginative and skilled entries that were received.

‘For the Joy of Drawing’ is inspired by the new series of exhibitions which recently opened at The Box. The spring 2023 programme includes an exhibition of work by artist-duo Quinlan and Hastings, as well as ‘Making Your Mark’ – a beautiful presentation of over 50 drawings from Plymouth’s nationally important Cottonian Collection.

The ‘For the Joy of Drawing’ display, ‘Hannah Quinlan and Rosie Hastings: Portraits’ and ‘Making a Mark: Dazzling Drawings from the Cottonian Collection’ can be seen

until June 4. Opening hours are 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday and selected bank holidays (including Easter and May). Admission to The

Box is free and there’s no need to book.

More information is available from www.theboxplymouth.com

MAYFLOWER MEDICAL GROUP GIVEN ‘GOOD’ RATING

Mayflower Medical Group, which has five GP practices in Plymouth has been rated as ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission - having been given an ‘Inadequate’ rating in 2021.

Following the negative rating in 2021, Livewell Primary Care Group took over the contract in April 2022. The latest inspection, which took place in December, found significant improvement had been made. This led to the practice being rated good and being removed from special measures because it was providing care that meet standards

people have a right to expect.

In addition to rating the service good overall following the latest inspection, CQC rated it good for being safe, effective, caring, responsive to people’s needs and well-led.

Livewell Primary Care Group is part of Livewell Southwest CIC, a social enterprise committed to delivering outstanding health and social care to the people of Plymouth and Devon.

Mayflower Medical Group is a five-practice Primary Care Network (PCN), serving a diverse and relatively deprived population of 36,000 patients

in Plymouth. It’s five practices are, Ernesettle Medical Centre, Stirling Road Medical Centre, Trelawny GP Surgery, Mount Gould Medical Centre and Mannamead Surgery.

Mandy Seymour, managing director said: “I am delighted to see the improvements we have made at Mayflower recognised as Good by the CQC inspectors. This is an outstanding turnaround and a testament to all the staff at Mayflower who have worked so hard for this. We have addressed the issues that were previously highlighted and are providing a much safer service for patients.”

Logan’s winning image

Councillor Charlotte Carlyle pictured with the Scouts and their leaders

Competition winners Milo Smith, Jainey Pickerel and Leah Bach

Logan Davies

Argyle legend Jack Leslie inducted into national Football Hall of Fame

Argyle legend Jack Leslie - the first Black player ever to be called up by England - was posthumously inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame at London Stadium ahead of West Ham United’s Premier League fixture against Chelsea on February 13.

Club Ambassador Ronnie Mauge attended on behalf of Argyle, joining Jack Leslie Campaign founders, and Argyle fans, Matt Tiller and Greg Foxsmith, Leslie’s family and a number of football greats to mark an emotional occasion.

Born in Canning Town in 1901 to a Jamaican father and English mother, Leslie started his career playing for non-league Barking Town, scoring over 250 goals and winning the London League title, before going on to become a goalscoring great and captain during 14 seasons at Argyle between 1921-35.

It was during his time at Home Park, in 1925, that the inside-left received a call-up for England’s Home Nations Championship international with Ireland, only for the invitation to be withdrawn because of the colour of his skin.

Despite the huge disappointment, Leslie continued to play superbly for the Greens for another decade, scoring 137 goals in 401 games, but he was never selected by England again.

A serious eye injury forced him to retire as a professional in 1935 and, after returning to east London and his original trade as a boilermaker in the East India Docks, he worked in the Hammers’ boot room in the 1960s and 1970s after being approached by manager Ron Greenwood. He worked with the likes of Bobby Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, Sir Trevor Brooking and Billy Bonds before retiring at the age of 82. He died in 1988, aged 87.

With his story little known, the Jack Leslie Campaign was founded in 2020 by Tiller and Foxsmith to celebrate, shine a light, and serve justice to his career and legacy. Through their tireless community crowdfunding and education efforts, the campaign achieved their six-figure target and saw their ambition of an incredible statue of Jack become reality in October of 2022.

With support from Jack’s descendants, Argyle, West Ham United, Barking FC and football fans near and far, the Campaign’s pursuit of justice saw the FA award Jack a posthumous honorary England cap, 97 years after his original call-up, to coincide

Jonathan Drean named as Lord Mayor Designate

Plymouth’s next Lord Mayor will be Councillor Jonathan Drean, following the recommendation of the Lord Mayor Selection Committee.

The recommendation will be put forward at the next Full Council meeting in March before it is fully agreed.

Councillor Drean is the Cabinet Member for Transport and Joint Chair of Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee, a member of the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority and was first elected to represent the Budshead Ward in Plymouth in 2007. He also served as the Deputy Lord Mayor in 2009 to 2010.

with the statue’s grand unveiling.

On February 13, just a few miles from his former home in Gerard Road, Canning Town, Jack was inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame in a pitch side ceremony at London Stadium.

There, National Football Museum CEO Tim Desmond presented the award to Jack’s three granddaughters, alongside West Ham legends Sir Trevor Brooking and Carlton Cole and the team behind the Jack Leslie Campaign.

Sir Trevor Brooking, West Ham United legend, said: “Jack was a lovely man who would do anything for you, and I am delighted to see him honoured with this special induction into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame.

“Jack’s story serves as an important reminder of the discrimination that Black players have suffered in years gone by, and it shows how they paved the way for those who followed them to be treated equally and become heroes, judged on their ability and skill rather than the colour of their skin.

“I’m sure he would be very proud to know that this special honour has been presented at London Stadium, and it is wonderful to have his family and members of the Jack Leslie Campaign here to accept it on his behalf.”

Matt Tiller from the Jack Leslie Campaign said: “We are delighted that fans from across the football community have responded positively to Jack’s story, and none more so than fans of Argyle

where Jack played professionally and West Ham where Jack was welcomed and still remembered fondly by legends such as Clyde Best and Sir Trevor Brooking.

“His induction into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame is a great honour, welcomed by the Campaign and Jack’s family.”

The National Football Museum Hall of Fame aims to celebrate and highlight the achievements of those who have made an outstanding contribution to football. Judges voted unanimously to induct Leslie in recognition of his stellar career and important story, laying foundations for the ethnically diverse sporting community of the future.

Tim Desmond, chief executive of the National Football Museum, said: “In 2019 we relaunched the National Football Museum Hall of Fame to be more representative of stories that are part of the holistic importance and significance of football, rather than just excellence in the sport. Since then, the museum researched stories such as Jack’s and many other players that acted as true trailblazers. We are delighted now to induct Jack into the Hall of Fame; he was truly a forerunner and now takes his rightful place amongst the greats of the game.”

The Hall of Fame, supported by the Professional Footballers’ Association, celebrates the achievements of those who have made an outstanding contribution to the game, either on or off the pitch.

Disused depot makes way for new care facility

A former council depot is being demolished to make way for a new care multi-million pound facility for adults.

Plymouth City Council is investing £10 million to create a centre of excellence combining specialist emergency and planned respite and day care services for people with complex physical and learning disabilities.

The Outland Road depot, on the edge of Central Park, was once the home of the council’s parks department but is no longer in use.

The site will now be cleared to allow the building of the brand new facility. Detailed plans for the building will be shared with the public, service users and their families during a consultation process this spring, but it’s set to include:

• A range of modern en-suite bedrooms and flats designed to maximise independence and allow support for adults with a wide range of disabilities

• Spaces for activity and learning

• Sensory rooms, outdoor spaces and quiet spaces for relaxation and therapy

Councillor Dr John Mahony, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social

Care, said: “This new facility is going to be absolutely fantastic for some of our city’s most vulnerable residents.

“ I’m delighted that we’re taking another step towards it becoming a reality with the demolition of the former depot.

“‘As a councillor for Peverell Ward I am particularly pleased with the use of this derelict site on the edge of Central Park, one of Plymouth’s most beautiful spaces. This will open up lots of opportunities for people using the centre to enjoy the great outdoors and spend time in nature which is so important for wellbeing.”

Once built, the facility will replace Colwill Lodge in Estover, which currently provides overnight short breaks and respite and the Vine in Whitleigh which provides daytime support. There is no other respite provision available in Plymouth for this client group.

Demolition of the existing buildings on site is being carried out by Wring Group and is expected take around eight weeks.

Procurement for the construction of the new facility will take place later this year.

Jonathan was born in Portsmouth and moved to Plymouth in 1969. His Father the late Tom Drean MBE was in the Royal Navy, and was also Deputy Lord Mayor during May 1987 to May 1988. For many years Jonathan worked in the aviation Industry, having started his career in 1978 at the Plymouth Airport, where he worked for Brymon Airways, and was later based at Heathrow Airport for 28 years.

He has worked with local residents and traders in the city on various improvement schemes, and also with many local transport companies to help improve their services within the city, such as rail, long distance coaches, continental ferries and various arrival gateways into the city.

Jonathan is married to Geraldine, who also works in the travel industry. Their Christian faith is very important to them and they attend and support their local church together.

As well as the official duties, Jonathan is looking forward to meeting many local voluntary charities and organisations, faith groups and supporting their fund raising events like flower festivals and the PMAC, a Youth Musical Group for nine to 18 Year olds, where Jonathan first attended a concert with his father in 1987, and in 2009 when he was Deputy Lord Mayor.

Councillor Drean said: “It is a huge honour to be asked to be the Lord Mayor Designate. I am looking forward to meeting and representing as many citizens, organisations, and charities of Plymouth during the year of office.

“Connecting with the people of Plymouth, the local communities, organisations and civic engagements is something that I am really passionate about and being elected as the Lord Mayor of Plymouth will reflect just this.”

Tim Desmond (left) and Ronnie Mauge (right) pictured with members of Jack Leslie’s family and campaign founders Matt Tiller and Greg Foxsmith

The former council depot in Outland Road

Cllr Jonathan Drean with Lord Mayor Cllr Sue Dann

Experience

Springtime certainly feels like the most dramatic time of change in the year. The daylight hours get longer and temperatures slowly warm up as winter gradually releases its grip.

Changes can be seen all over the place. Bulbs like snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils all come into bloom and trees and bushes start budding with new growth.

At the time of writing this myself and my family are going through one of the most sizeable changes it is possible to have, that of the arrival of a brand new family members. My wife is pregnant and due any day with our second child.

Just like the changes from Winter to Spring, there is so much about this big change that we’re excited about. Not least our daughter who is getting ever more excited about becoming a big sister. Change in our lives is one of those things, like death and taxes, that is absolutely guaranteed. Change is also quite daunting and at times very difficult to deal with. This goes without saying when it comes to negative changes like losing a job or the passing of a loved one, but change in general isn’t easy to navigate.

When everything’s changing...

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms Plymouth

We’re very excited about the arrival of our child but it is equally daunting embracing this change to our lives. We have to face the sleepless nights all over again for one thing!

Our daughter’s anticipation for becoming a sister is very pure, mostly because she has no concept of what this is really going to be like. We know she’ll make an excellent sister but equally she is bound to find the change in her life a challenge. She isn’t going to solely have her parent’s attention anymore.

She’s going to have to share us, her toys and lots of other things with her new sibling. Toddlers aren’t exactly renowned for finding all of that easy!

I recently spoke with someone who told me that change is one of the things they find most challenging in life. That might be the case for you too.

Whilst I was looking through the track listing for Cross Rhythms Plymouth I came

across a song by Family Force 5 which was especially relevant. Its title is ‘When Everything’s Changing’.

The lyrics in the chorus speak of a way in which the songwriter copes with change;

When everything’s changing

You are my constant

I’d be lost without You

You might interpret this as being a constant person in your life who enables you to process change. A spouse, best friend or family member perhaps. The constancy of the love and support from people in our lives is a significant support but it isn’t this to which the songwriter is referring.

The song is about how Jesus is the one who is truly constant in our lives and is able to give us the comfort and stability we need to face any change.

Friends let us down, spouses can leave and family members aren’t always

Meghan Field takes on key role in work of the VWAG Commission in Plymouth

A new strategic lead has joined Plymouth City Council, to help drive forward the recommendations from the Violence Against Women and Girls Commission across the city.

The Plymouth multi-agency Commission was established in January 2022 by Plymouth City Council following the tragic murder of Bobbi-Anne McLeod. Since the final report has been published organisations have been working hard across the city to shine a light on the issue and drive culture change, create safe spaces, ensure that women and girls in Plymouth are supported and empowered to report violence and abuse and get the support they need at the right time and in the right place.

One of the key recommendations from the Commission was that a new strategic lead be recruited to help drive forward this work.

Meghan Field joined the council last month and is passionate about combatting violence against women and girls. Throughout her 25 year career she has worked across the globe to support victims and design and deliver community responses to violence against women and girls in both the charity and public sectors.

She is also a certified Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) and managed a frontline IDVA service in West London for three years before taking on a range of roles including the VAWG Strategic Lead for central London, co-founder of the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance, and most recently the Director of Advance Women’s Charity in London.

Now in Plymouth, Meghan has been appointed to work in collaboration with the

Safer Plymouth partnership to ensure that violence against women and girls is kept high on the city’s agenda. She will be leading on:

• The development of a city wide blueprint/ action plan to address male violence and improve the local response to VAWG

• Ensuring that the city blueprint and commitment to tackling male violence against women and girls is embedded in the Plymouth Plan

• Developing a local repository for information, campaigns, policy, details of quality assured training courses and materials and best practice relating to VAWG

• Regularly monitoring and reporting on the delivery of the VAWG Commission recommendations and provide ongoing evaluation of their impact.

Meghan said: “Empowering women and girls, and combatting violence against women and girls. Could not be more important to me. My whole career has been dedicated to this in one way or another.

“Plymouth is trailblazing in its work so far.

I have been impressed with the work of the Commission to strive to do more. What is really clear is that to eliminate male violence against women and girls, one individual cannot do it alone. It is down to all of us. Working together to achieve one clear goal.

“I hope to be able to pull all the good work that is already being delivered in Plymouth together and help identify the gaps moving forward. I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to making a difference to this great city.”

Councillor Rebecca Smith, Chair of the Violence Against Women and Girls Commission for Plymouth, said: “We are

thrilled that Meghan has been able to join us. This is such an important role and getting the right person for the job was vital.

“Meghan’s vast experience in this field is second to none. She not only brings her personal dedication, but thanks to her impressive CV, she will also be able to share best practice. I look forward to working with her in the months ahead to really drive the Commission recommendations forward.”

consistent with their love and care for us but according to the testimony of the Bible and the experience of many millions of Christians in the world today and throughout history, Jesus is a very real and every faithful support in all the various stages of our lives.

The one who created us and knows us best invites us to live our lives with Him and to know the peace of His presence as we navigate the changes of life.

Myself and my wife are very privileged to have great family and friends nearby who we know will help us through the impending change we’re facing but much more importantly for us than that, we know that Jesus is with us.

This reality helped us so profoundly in the turmoil and change of 2020 when we had to raise our first child in the midst of a pandemic. The best thing is He is just as available to you now as He has been for us.

Freedom of City for military hospital group

A local organisation that provides military medical staff to work alongside the NHS have been recognised for their commitment to healthcare by being awarded the Freedom of the City.

The Joint Hospital Group provides around 170 personnel including consultants, nurses, operating department practitioners, radiographers and medics working in the trust.

The group is one of five tri-service – army, navy and air force – military hospital groups situated around the UK which provides the staff the opportunity to rapidly deploy and provide the ‘highest quality of healthcare’ in the UK and abroad, when needed.

The Freedom of the City – which was granted at the meeting of Plymouth City Council at the end of January – is an honour bestowed upon a valued member of the community.

Councillor Sue Dann, Lord Mayor of Plymouth, said: “The Joint Hospital Group have looked after and will continue looking after the military community. They provide healthcare professionals to interact with people locally and nationally, and deliver the highest level of healthcare for those in need around the world when it is needed the most.

“The citizens of Plymouth have expressed their admiration for their great achievements in the service of this country and of their long and historic association with the city, and this is why we have chosen to grant Freedom of the City to them today. I would like to thank them for all of the incredible work that they do.”

Speaking on behalf of the Unit, the Commanding Officer, Commander Jonathan Coates, Royal Navy said: “It is an absolute honour to be recognised for our long standing history of providing healthcare to the people of the city of Plymouth.

“It is a tremendous privilege to be recognised by the city of Plymouth and be bestowed with the Freedom of the City.”

Dave Simpson

Meghan Field

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Local families and children encouraged to join The Wild Escape

The Box is joining The Wild Escape, a major new project uniting hundreds of museums, galleries and historic houses with schools and families to explore nature and creativity.

Led by national charity Art Fund with support from Arts Council England, the project is the largest ever collaboration between UK museums.

Taking place between now and July, The Wild Escape invites children to find a favourite animal in their local museum and create an artwork imagining its journey to a natural habitat. The pictures and stories they create will be brought together in a collective work of art that imagines a better future for wildlife.

It will be launched online and in selected museums on Earth Day 2023. Visit www.earthday.org/earth-day-2023/ for details.

As part of The Wild Escape, The Box will be working with St Peter’s CE Primary School in Rendle Street, Plymouth on a series of workshops connected to evolution.

During the sessions they’ll be exploring the Six-Banded nomad bee – Britain’s rarest type of bee which can be found on the nearby South Devon coast – and its reliance on particular habitats and other species for survival.

The Box will also be supporting the school with its plans to redevelop its grounds through a donation of wildflower seeds.

During the Easter holidays, on April 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 11 to 15, and on Earth Day on April 22, The Box will be running free, family-friendly drop-in sessions inspired by Six-Banded nomad bee too. From headdresses and seed balls to bee homes and puppets; activities will vary from day to day and will give everyone who comes along the chance to be creative whilst learning more about this amazing insect and The Box’s natural history collections.

The Wild Escape is an opportunity to join the urgent conversation about climate change and biodiversity loss and look for solutions that will benefit nature, in partnership with leading environmental charities the RSPB and WWF and cultural organisations English Heritage and the National Trust.

The project is inspired by ‘Wild Isles’, a landmark BBC series that will air this year. Presented by David Attenborough, the programme will focus on Britain’s spectacular wildlife.

Jenny Waldman, director of Art Fund, said: “I’m thrilled that The Box is joining hundreds of organisations from across the country to connect thousands of children with the natural world.

Thanks to the invaluable support of Arts Council England, The Wild Escape will empower families and children to visit and discover our wonderful museums, whilst taking positive action to picture a better future for our wildlife.”

Jolly time was had by all!

Age UK Plymouth’s Jolly Elders group has recently had the opportunity to get out of the city and travel on two local scenic railways lines, thanks to a collaboration with the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership, a non-profit partnership who support branch lines in the South West including the St Ives Bay Line, Tarka Line and Atlantic Coast Line.

The Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership was founded in 1991 has been nationally recognised with 30 awards from the Community Rail Awards since its inception in 2005. The Jolly Elders Programme was formed just 12 months ago as part of the charity’s active living project and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

The group is for those over 50 who want to get together, meet new people and enjoy different themes and activities each week. Initially just one group met at Manadon Sports & Community Hub on Fridays but the group was quickly running at capacity. Keen to make Jolly Elders as accessible as possible across the city a second group was launched at Central Park Community Hub on Monday afternoons.

At the end of 2022 a third group was launched at the charity’s Mount Gould HQ, which gave the opportunity to make this a lunch club, with catering provided by the team at Age UK Plymouth.

Many have found Jolly Elders a lifeline with one regular saying, ‘the club saved my sanity after two years of being shut away. I could not mix with anyone. Lisa and Abi have been

doing everything, we think they are wonderful!’

Abigail Young, community support manager at Age UK Plymouth said: “As a charity one of the things we’re here to champion is wellbeing in the city of Plymouth. It’s amazing to be a part of supporting our Jolly Elders, an outing like a day’s round train trip to Looe can make a huge difference to someone’s wellbeing and helping them love later life.

“Our Active Living programme has been a huge part of the charity’s focus over the past year to reduce isolation in the community. We look forward to our weekly groups knowing that they are making a real difference to people. The psychological impact of lockdown has been huge on those who found themselves

grouped as vulnerable people. It’s amazing the effect of groups like Jolly Elders has in supporting people in leaving their homes and reducing that loneliness in the community.”

With the generous donation of free tickets, thanks to Great Western Railway, the Jolly Elders took their first ever trip, visiting Looe. The sun was shining as the group enjoyed a classic Cornish Fish ‘n’ Chip lunch and a walk along the sea front before making their way back to Plymouth Station along the Looe Valley Line.

For their second trip in December the group headed along the Tamar Valley Line where they enjoyed mince pies on the way and were greeted by children from Delaware Primary School who boarded the train singing Christmas carols.

The next step for Age UK Plymouth is to continue to grow the Jolly Elders Lunch Club which meets every Tuesday at The William and Patricia Venton Centre in the heart of Mount Gould.

The centre can be accessed by the number 23 and 24 buses direct from Royal Parade and the sessions include a hot cooked two course meal, activities and regular visits from guests including live singers.

For more information about Jolly Elders or any of the work of Age UK Plymouth visit www. ageukplymouth.org.uk.

To find out more about working in partnership with Age UK Plymouth or to talk about how groups or organisations can work with or support the charity please email enquiries@ ageukplymouth.org.uk.

Tree-mendous effort by U3A volunteers

Volunteers from Plymouth U3A have planted over 500 trees on National Trust land in Plymbridge Woods to create a lasting legacy to mark the 40th anniversary of the national organisation’s founding.

Plymouth U3A members took their spades and shovels and met up with National Trust area ranger Chris Acraman and his team, who guided the volunteers to the planting area.

Chris explained that the whips (young trees) were a mix of different varieties suitable for wet woodland, including alder, aspen, silver birch, buckthorn, and willow. As they grow, the area will develop into scrubland that will be a perfect habitat for ground-nesting birds.

Plymouth U3A chair Marilyn Lean, a self-

confessed pots and window boxes sort of person, said the idea of tree-planting had been generated in response to an initiative by the national organisation as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations.

She said: “We saw it as a way of making a positive contribution to the local ecology.”

Nationally, the U3A was founded in 1982 and has grown steadily since then. In the UK there are over 1,000

separate groups encompassing well over 400,000 individuals. Plymouth U3A, with around 800 members, is the largest in the South West, but new recruits are always given a warm welcome. With an eclectic mix of some 80 subject groups from Ancient History to Walking Groups there should be something for everyone. Full details, including an application form, can be found at: www.plymouthu3a.org.uk

Having fun on the Christmas rail trip

NEW NATURE PATH FORMALLY OPENED IN SEATON VALLEY

A vast swathe of green space in the heart of Plymouth has been formally opened to the public for the first time thanks to a new walking and cycling route.

The brand new, purpose-build Seaton Valley Nature Path stretches for nearly two kilometres and links the green space between Tailyour Road and Hunter Close in Crownhill to Forder Valley Road, near to the entrance of Poole Farm.

It is the first part of 5.6 kilometres of offroad network that will give easy pedestrian and cycle access to the nearby Forder and Bircham Valley Local Nature Reserves and previously inaccessible greenspace along the Seaton Valley.

Although the path has been open for a number of weeks, it has now received the finishing touches with tree planting and hedge laying all completed by Green Minds volunteers.

Councillor Jonathan Drean, Cabinet member for Transport, said: “I’m so pleased to be able to get this path open to the public so that this beautiful part of the city can be enjoyed by all. One of the big selling points for me is that so many communities can be sustainable linked for the first time.

“I’ve always said that we’re not going to get people out of their cars and on their bikes overnight, but if we invest in infrastructure like this, if we continue to set an example, it can only help in all our journeys towards carbon neutrality.”

Councillor James Stoneman, Cabinet member for Climate Change, added: “Sustainable transport facilities like this are so important, not just for the environment, but for people’s health.

“I can’t wait to see people of all ages enjoying the new path.”

The path was funded by the Transforming

Cities Fund and Green Minds and its construction has ticked off another action on the city’s Climate Emergency Action Plan. Green Minds is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund, Urban Innovative Actions Initiative.

A full ecological assessment has been completed as part of the scheme to ensure that the impact to wildlife was effectively controlled and mitigated and supports the aim of the Community Park being a highquality site to benefit people and wildlife.

The new path is crucial to the wider

Derriford Community Park project, which will see 147 hectares of beautiful natural space with wooded valleys, wildflower meadows and rivers around Poole Farm opened to the public.

Further paths and routes are set to follow this as part of the delivery of the Forder Valley Link Road, which is set to open shortly.

A further celebration event, open to public, will be held at Poole Farm during February half term. Follow Poole Farm on social media for more details at facebook.com/

PooleFarmPlymouth

New Royal Eye Infirmary to open in the Spring

People with eye conditions will be able to access a brand-new state-of-the-art facility this year as the building for a new Royal Eye Infirmary (REI) is well underway. University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust’s new REI on William Prance Road will include theatres, an increased number of treatment rooms and an expanded area for children.

Dave Adams, head of the Optometry Department, explained how the move will be good for patients: “We are an ageing population which means that eye care and eye issues are going to continue to increase, with more people experiencing conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

“The new REI means more space and more equipment which is good news for waiting times for patients accessing our services.

“We can treat more patients if we have the space, the staff and the equipment, and the good news is that we are employing more staff to work here too.

“In addition, when we move off the busy Derriford Hospital site, University Hospitals Plymouth will be able to put more wards in that space and take some of the pressure off the Emergency Department.”

The new REI includes the addition of a

Councillor Jonathan Drean officially opens the Seaton Valley Nature Path, backed by Green Minds volunteers who have helped with the finishing touches

third operating theatre dedicated to subspecialisms, such as oculoplastic, orbital and corneal surgeries, to start to reduce the waiting times of patients from across Devon

and Cornwall.

The new REI will have improved access for patients with a drop-off zone and parking. It is due to open in the Spring.

Artist’s impression of the new Royal Eye Infirmary in William Prance Road

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Plymouth set to welcome French tourists

Plymouth is aiming to welcome an influx of French visitors this year through an initiative with Brittany Ferries, showcasing the city as a go-to destination.

The partnership will promote the benefits of cross-channel sailing to reach the spectacular coastline and surroundings of Britain’s Ocean City.

Travellers from France can reach Plymouth in as little as six hours on a Brittany Ferry from Roscoff and it is anticipated the promotion will appeal to those seeking an easily accessible, sustainable and stunning coastal destination with a warm and inclusive welcome.

The partnership is being financed from VisitBritain’s GREAT Gateway Innovation Fund, enabling a joint marketing campaign, focusing on North-West France from Brittany, Normandy and the Loire regions across to Paris, to target the post-Covid-19, short-break travel market.

Amanda Lumley, Destination Plymouth’s chief executive, said: “We are delighted to be involved in this initiative which is such a good fit for our own ethos as a sustainable destination offering unrivalled coastal and

countryside locations and activities, value for money and a plethora of other travel options from here onwards.

“We are known as Britain’s Ocean City and have enjoyed a very proud maritime history of welcoming visitors by sea for centuries, so we are eager to see many more make that short journey across the channel to explore all the opportunities Plymouth has to offer. This partnership is an excellent example of two key organisations working together to make that happen.”

VisitBritain chief executive Patricia Yates said: “The Gateway Innovation Fund encourages local destinations in forging partnerships within the industry and boosts their marketing activity, showcasing the very best of their region.

“It also encourages visitors to broaden their travel itineraries, boosting inbound visits across more of the year and across more of Britain, supporting local businesses, destinations and economies.”

Brittany Ferries sails from Roscoff to Plymouth once or twice a day from March to November. Sailings take around six hours by day and nine hours by night.

With great motorway links from the Loire,

Dordogne and Atlantic Coast to the French port, it offers easy access to crossings to Plymouth for travellers from a large swathe of France.

Once docked at Plymouth visitors will have myriad opportunities to explore the city’s culture – including The Box museum and gallery – its history and a fantastic choice of dining and accommodation options.

The area’s environmental attractions include the UK’s first National Marine Park, numerous stunning walking trails and Dartmoor National Park.

Julian Patchett, partnerships manager at Brittany Ferries added: “While Brittany Ferries today links 12 ports in France, UK, Spain and Ireland we never forget that Plymouth was our very first destination port 50 years ago when French farmers established a fledgling ferry route from Brittany to Devon.

“Their vision wasn’t just to transport cargo and holidaymakers - they wanted above all to enrich the regions served by Brittany Ferries ships by promoting trade and tourism links. Our mission remains the same to this day, as we look to reveal the fabulous destinations of Plymouth and the southwest to a new generation of French travellers.”

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