Plymouth Chronicle Plympton & Plymstock April 2021

Chronicle Plymouth

See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

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Plympton & Plymstock

April 2021

COVID UPDATE

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95-year-old Charlie Trevethan from Southway has been sharing his memories of the Plymouth Blitz See page 24

Derriford consultant Professor Matthew Cramp has won an Excellence Award for his work See page 8

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Enter the dragon!

Image credit Carl Robertshaw

A spectacular dragon will hatch in Plymouth City Centre this summer, and grow to the size of a double-decker bus. The Hatchling is a ground-breaking outdoor theatrical performance that will unfold over a weekend of events in August and reaches an extraordinary finale on The Hoe - see story on page 4

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2 April 2021

2 April 2021

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Light at the end of the tunnel

By Councillor Tudor Evans Leader of Plymouth City Council The Government has now published its COVID-19 Response – Spring 2021 plan, setting out the roadmap for how we will leave the current lockdown in England.

It is very welcome news that the current lockdown measures and the ongoing vaccination programme are moving us in the right direction and we are able to ease restrictions in the coming weeks and months.

Many local businesses and attractions across the city have been hugely impacted

by Coronavirus and it is encouraging news that, if we continue to work hard, there will

be a brighter summer for us all.

Whilst the ‘stay at home’ message is still in place, Council staff will continue to provide essential services and support the most vulnerable members of our community. Thank you to the voluntary organisations and the army of volunteers who support this effort.

The opening of all nurseries, schools and colleges is the important first step in our road to recovery. I would like to give my reassurance that Plymouth City Council will continue to support schools as they return to face-to-face learning safely.

I know we will all want to send our heartfelt thanks to our local school staff for their hard work in making this happen. It has not been an easy task.

However, as we look ahead with a hope for a return to normality, it is important that we do not let our guard down and become complacent. We must all continue to adhere to the guidelines to stay at home until 29 March and follow the mantra of hands, face, space, in order to reduce the number of cases in the city further.

In addition, the provision of free rapid testing for those essential workers without symptoms will continue to play an important role as lockdown restrictions are eased.

I urge everyone who has to be out in the community for essential reasons, even if they have already received the vaccine, to get tested regularly to stop the spread of the virus as we take the final steps towards resuming our normal lives.

Schools are back – but still a long way to go

The Government’s roadmap heralds a clear turning point in the fight against COVID-19 and I would like to take this opportunity to again thank everyone across the city who has played their part to help get the virus under control.

However, we must not allow ourselves to become complacent. We have all seen how quickly rates can rise when we let down our guard and our hospitals are still under huge pressure.

I would urge everyone to continue to follow the current restrictions, get tested if they are feeling unwell and concerned about their health and take up the offer of the vaccine when it’s their turn.

Only by doing so will we see restrictions being lifted to the point that we can get back to doing all the things we love and have missed.

The return to face-to-face education

this week will be a huge relief to schools, parents and children alike. Please remember, if you have a child of school age in your household, then home test kits are available free of charge.

You can find your nearest collection point at https://find-covid-19-rapid-test-sites. maps.test-and-trace.nhs.uk/.

We have started rolling out community testing this week for essential workers, and hope that over the weeks and months ahead, we will expand this service.

While all of us look forward to a relaxation of the national regulations, it’s vital that we continue to exercise caution. COVID-19 is an extremely infectious virus and is still very much present in the community.

Cases in Plymouth have remained relatively low compared to elsewhere in the country and we do not want to see them rising again.

As restrictions start to ease, we must remain absolutely resolute in sticking to the national public health measures – keeping our social distance, wearing face coverings whenever indoors in a public place and regularly washing our hands.

By Dr Ruth Harrell Director of Public Health for Plymouth

HOW TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE

You can check the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth on the Council’s website at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19. There are also daily updates on the Council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Understanding the roadmap out of lockdown

April 2021

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Local Restrictions Support Grant: Are you eligible?

Around 1,200 Plymouth businesses are missing out on funding they’re entitled to and with the deadline fast approaching, Plymouth City Council is urging business owners to check if they’re eligible.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) is available to support businesses that pay rates to the Council and have been legally required to close due to ongoing coronavirus restrictions since November 2020.

These businesses are also entitled to a one-off Closed Business Support Payment, announced by Government at the beginning of the year.

However, an estimated 1,200 businesses in Plymouth haven’t completed an application yet which means they’re potentially missing out on thousands of pounds of funding.

There are a number of grants available

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covering different time periods of national lockdown: • 5 November to 4 December 2020 • 5 January to 15 February 2021 • 16 February to 31 March 2021 In addition to this, there are grants available for businesses that were required to close while Plymouth was under Tier 2 and Tier 3 restrictions between 4 December and 5 January.

The total grant amount that each business will receive is dependent on its rateable value.

The Council has worked to automate as many payments as possible, so that eligible businesses have only had to complete one application form since November. If your business is eligible you need to apply by 31 March 2021 to claim the funding for 5 January to 15 February, so don’t delay.

Find out more and see how to apply at: investplymouth.co.uk/business-grants

Your COVID-19 questions answered

A panel of health and care experts from across Plymouth are set to chair an online question and answer session to help provide reassurance and the facts around the Coronavirus vaccine to local people.

Hosted by Tony Gravett MBE from the local Healthwatch, the event will take place virtually between 6.30pm and 8pm on Tuesday 13 April.

Answering questions will be Dr Alex Degan, Medical Director for Primary Care for Devon, Sue Wilkins, Associate Chief Nurse and Director of Mass Vaccination and Dr Ruth Harrell, the Director of Public Health at Plymouth City Council.

The event will enable those with concerns about the Coronavirus vaccine to put their questions direct to local health and care experts.

Dr Harrell said: “Over

the past 12 months, we have all been working hard to keep Coronavirus OUT of Plymouth. Whilst the rollout of the vaccine is obviously welcomed, with over 80,000 local people already being vaccinated, it isn’t a quick fix.

“And the journey will be complicated.

The aim of this event is to listen to concerns, provide genuine up-to-date information and dispel any rumours that may be causing anyone to think twice about having the vaccine.”

For more information or to register visit https://plymouthcovid-19qanda.eventbrite. co.uk/

Become a COVID-19 Community Champion A new campaign aimed at providing timely, easy-to-understand and reliable information about COVID-19 and the vaccination programme has launched in Plymouth – and the Council is encouraging local people to take part.

The scheme aims to recruit volunteers who live or work in the city and want to help make a difference in their community, by ensuring people are kept up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 information and guidance, including the rollout of the vaccine programme.

By sharing good and useful information, COVID-19 Community Champions will help

their community, family and friends make informed choices that help stop the spread of the virus and that may save lives.

You might be someone who lots of people know and trust; you might be involved in a community group or organisation; you might have lots of family who live in the city or you might be involved in a popular business.

Whatever it is, you just need a willingness to help others and to work with likeminded people.

For more information or to apply, go to: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ covid19communityinformationchampions

NOTE: The information on these pages was correct at time of going to press on March 11.

Please visit plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19 for latest updates or sign up for email updates with the latest news and information at bit.ly/plymouthemailalerts

Major funding boost for key city projects

Almost £7m will be pumped into Plymouth to help important new construction projects get off the ground in 2021.

The Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership has announced it will be allocated money from the government’s Getting Building Fund to invest in major infrastructure projects to support economic growth across the city. Working in partnership with Plymouth City Council and local businesses, it is expected that this investment will create or safeguard more than 80 jobs or apprenticeships.

The projects, chosen after a robust selection process, will play an important role in Plymouth’s economic recovery programme, Resurgam, by supporting employment, regeneration, skills and innovation in the region.

Leader of Plymouth City Council, Cllr Tudor Evans, said: “This is a major shot in the arm for Plymouth’s economy and will make a significant contribution to our recovery from the pandemic. We put forward business cases for a number of exciting shovel-ready projects and I’m excited that they will now have lift off in the near future.

“Through Resurgam we want to deliver economic recovery and growth for Plymouth by improving the city’s infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions and saving or creating jobs for local people. Frankly, construction can’t start soon enough and we expect workers to be on-site this spring.”

Karl Tucker, chair of the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The HotSW LEP’s Getting Building Fund aims to support ready-to-go projects that will deliver new jobs and contribute to our area’s postCOVID recovery. We are delighted to have been able to award nearly £7m through the fund to Plymouth City Council, to help deliver a range of major projects that will improve the city’s infrastructure, create new jobs and significantly support Plymouth’s economic recovery.”

The projects given the green light by today’s funding announcement are: An additional £4.17 million for Phase 2 of Brunel Plaza/train station concourse development. The city has ambitious plans to transform the station, which has not seen significant investment in decades, by creating a thriving new plaza with operational staff accommodation. Phase 2 of these ambitious plans will create more than 60 new jobs.

Around £2 million will be spent on two of the city’s business parks. Up to 10 low carbon, flexible workspaces will be created at Plymouth International, while a former computer complex at the City Business Park in Stoke will be demolished and groundworks undertaken to develop a viable site for future construction. £300,000 will be spent on helping make more than 600 homes around the city more energy efficient. The households selected will be in fuel poverty meaning they spend a greater than average proportion of their income on energy bills. The project is also expected to give a £1m boost to local small businesses. £350,000 to invest in state-of-the-art third generation technology to create the largest Augmented Reality welding training lab in Europe at City College Plymouth. This will showcase the Heart of the South West LEP region as a world-leader in adopting disruptive technology to improve productivity and results in the welding sector, and attracting a much-needed new generation to welding through gamification and innovation.

4 April 2021

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The Hatchling is coming to Plymouth this summer!

A spectacular dragon will hatch in Plymouth City Centre this summer, and grow to the size of a double-decker bus.

The Hatchling is a ground-breaking outdoor theatrical performance that will unfold over a weekend of events in August and reaches an extraordinary finale on The Hoe. The beautiful visitor will hatch in the city, build herself a nest and then attempt to take to the skies in a bid for her freedom.

Along the way, she’ll explore the city, and as she roams, will encounter a series of events from intimate interactions to city-wide performances, prepared especially for her majestic visit.

Created by Trigger, a leading design team specialising in puppetry, kites and immersive theatre, this world premiere is taking place over the weekend of August 15 and 16.

The Hatchling will bring together artists, community groups and city partners to create a public artwork and a cultural icon that will unite people from all walks of life.

The Hatchling, which is free to attend, will invite the public to take to the streets and accompany the dragon on her epic two-day journey. The performance has been created with 25 partners including The Queens Harbour Master, Plymouth University and Plymouth Argyle Football Club.

The project is a collaboration between a team of leading UK creatives including Mervyn Millar, part of the original creative team of the acclaimed stage production War Horse, and Carl Robertshaw, a designer who has created sets for the London 2012 Olympic Ceremonies, collaborated with artists including Ellie Goulding and Kylie, and is a five-time sport kite world champion.

Artist’s impression of The Hatchling, produced by Trigger, preparing for flight. Credit - Carl Robertshaw

Standing at over 6.5m tall, The Hatchling is the largest ever puppet to be solely human operated. It is constructed from super lightweight carbon fibre weighing less than a piece of hand luggage, allowing it to be operated by a team of 36 puppeteers working in rotation in groups of 15.

Designed in collaboration with a paleontologist, she will be the largest ever flying creature, surpassing the size of the prehistoric pterosaur on which she is based.

Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Plymouth has been the starting point for some of the world’s most historic journeys including those of The Mayflower, Darwin and Shackleton, and for

thousands of emigrants setting off all over the world.

“The Hatchling will be another unique journey starting from the city this summer.

It will be a world-class cultural event set against the beautiful backdrop of Plymouth Sound.”

The Hatchling has been made possible thanks to public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England and support from Plymouth City Council and Mayflower 400. It will be delivered in partnership with a range of event partners, alongside five academic research projects conducted by the Brigstow Institute at the University of Bristol.

Schoolboy speedway star Ben gears up for big racing debut A schoolboy speedway star from Plymouth has roared away with a share of funding from a leading housebuilder as he gears up to ride 500cc bikes from his 15th birthday in May.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall has donated £1,000 from its Community Champions fund to support 14-year-old Ben Trigger as he competes in speedway events, progressing from the 125cc bikes to the full-size machines.

Ben, from Plympton, has an excellent record having been the top rider in his category in the south Young Ben in action west and is one of the top young riders in Britain.

He has also notched up rankings in the 125cc track racing gold cup in Poland, podium-place finishes at two international events in Belgium as well as finishing a very credible seventh out of 24 in the 125cc European final held in Pilsen, Czech Republic in August 2020.

But when he turns 15 Ben, who will compete in the 2021 Northern Junior League (NJL) with the Newcastle Sapphires, will be eligible to ride the full-size machines.

He said: “My dad, Lee, needs to buy parts and build me a competitive race bike to give me the very best possible chance. I also need to raise funds to help with the high running costs

to compete at this level. On January 1 dad and I started an 800 mile cycle challenge to raise money for my racing, with also the added bonus of getting myself in good physical shape for this important year ahead.

“I decided on the 800 mile distance because that is the distance I will have to travel - there and back - to compete in Northern Junior League (NJL) for the Newcastle Sapphires.

“This meant we had to ride at least 15 miles a day each, every day for 28 days. We successfully completed the challenge on January 28.

“This generous donation of £1,000 from Persimmon Homes Cornwall will make a huge difference to our ambitions.”

Jane Cartwright, head of sales for Persimmon Homes Cornwall, said: “Ben has been making the headlines for his success at speedway and we are delighted to be able to support a local lad who is achieving so much at such a young age.

“He clearly has focus and a drive to be the best he can and it is obvious his family and friends are incredibly supportive and proud of his achievements.” Each month Persimmon Homes donates up to £2,000 to community groups in each of its 32 business operating areas.

Valuable sponsorship for Ben

This means up to £64,000 is dished out every month – a total of £768,000 a year, and more than £2million since the scheme started in 2015.

Visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity to apply for funding.

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Councillor Terri Beer to be next Lord Mayor Councillor Terri Beer is to become the next Lord Mayor of Plymouth.

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The Lord Mayor’s Selection Committee has recommended her as the new Lord Mayor designate for 2021/22.

Councillor Beer was first elected to the City Council as councillor for Plympton Erle in May 2007. She has served the city for 14 years and was Deputy Lord Mayor in 2019/2020.

Councillor Beer was born and raised in Plympton St Maurice and has lived in Plymouth all her life. She gained a qualification in personal management at Plymouth’s City College and subsequently embarked on a career working for Victim Support at Plymouth Crown Court with an interest in assisting and advising victims and witnesses attending court to give evidence.

During this time she undertook specialist training to enable her to support families and the victims of crime during the judicial and court process.

Until quite recently she has been employed with Devon and Cornwall Police in the Witness Care Unit, providing guidance and support to victims and witnesses required to give evidence in court.

Terri enjoys spending time with her husband Colin and family especially her five grandchildren and her two cats Sebastian and Dolly.

Councillor Beer said: “I am deeply honoured to have been chosen as the next Lord Mayor to the City of Plymouth and Colin and I are looking forward to representing the City in the coming year.”

Current Lord Mayor Chris Mavin said: “I send congratulations to Cllr Beer. I hope that things work out well and that she has an enjoyable year.”

The Lord Mayor’s Selection Committee’s recommendation will be formally accepted

by Full Council on March 15. Councillor Terri Beer will take over as Lord Mayor from Councillor Chris Mavin in May 2021.

6 April 2021

6 April 2021

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Volunteering has helped Rebecca overcome anxiety and other fears A Plymouth woman who has a degree in psychology and is a trained counsellor has spoken of her own battle with anxiety and other mental health challenges during the pandemic.

many years and the series of lockdowns left her feeling almost suicidal and trapped in her own home.

However, life changed dramatically when Rebecca responded to an advert on social media by a Plymouth-based radio station Rebecca Mansell, who is 50, has battled called Ptown Radio. with agoraphobia and an anxiety disorder for “They were asking for volunteer radio presenters and I decided to apply,” said Rebecca. “I was interviewed and was delighted to be taken on by the station.”

A popular holiday club for children is starting again at Easter.

At first she found Mr David’s Holiday Club will be available for children aged from three to it incredibly difficult 11 years of age during the Easter holidays at the start of April. driving from her home The club is celebrating its 11th anniversary this year and is now in a new in West Park to the home at Eggbuckland Community College, having previously been held at studio in Mayflower St Gabriel’s Church.

Street. “I experienced Organiser David Bailey said: “We are hoping that the club will flourish panic attacks and felt again at its new home in the main hall at Eggbuckland Community College. that I could never “We are very fortunate to have additional facilities available to us such ever do it - but I as the gym and sports hall. New children are welcome to along and be persisted,” she said. part of our club with myself, Shannon Hele and Jamie Tolcher, who are all “Exposure therapy teachers. is commonly used “Also we plan to start our summer holiday trips on a Tuesday which we with people suffering haven’t been able to do since 2018. These have proved very popular in the past with trips to attractions such as Mount Edgcumbe, Pennywell Farm, Trethorne, Paignton Zoo, Dartmoor Zoo and Morwellham Quay.”

Bookings are now open for Easter on 07393229768 or email: dbaileydjr@ yahoo.co.uk

Popular holiday club is to start again at Easter

with agoraphobia. It means you deliberately do the things which cause you the most difficulty - and keep doing it over and over again.

“I was doing it myself, on my own, but with a real purpose. Now, after being in the studio for two months I am beginning to conquer the agoraphobia and anxiety.

“I never thought it would be possible - especially in the current situation. But repeatedly getting into my car and driving to the studio in Plymouth, doing my shows, has transformed my life.

“As a qualified counsellor I try to support others and can now use my own story to help them to realise that there can be light - even when the world seems dark,” she added.

Rebecca said: “I love being on the radio and have three shows a week. One is an 80s show, another is an agony aunt slot and then I have a rock show on Tuesday evenings.

“When I first started broadcasting I was literally thrown in at the deep end. I had never done anything like that before - but I discovered I could do it. It has totally changed my life - for the better,” she added.

To listen to Rebecca - who broadcasts as Goldie - visit www.facebook.com/ptownradio

Rebecca Mansell

New blue plaques celebrate famous Plymouth women Two important women in the city’s history have been honoured with blue plaques which were unveiled on International Women’s Day. The first is dedicated to

philanthropist and Royal Sailors Rests founder Agnes ‘Aggie’ Weston (18401918).

Located by the entrance to Endurance Court in Devonport’s Oceansgate development, the plaque has been positioned opposite the site where the Royal Sailors Rests buildings originally stood before they were destroyed in the Blitz in 1941.

London-born Weston spent more than two decades living and working among the sailors of the Royal Navy. As well as co-founding two Royal Sailors Rests in Plymouth with fellow philanthropist Sophia Wintz (1847-1929), they also set one up in Portsmouth.

Weston campaigned tirelessly to

Pictured at the unveiling of the Blue Plaques for Aggie Weston are (from left) Councillors Sally Haydon, Sue Dann and Jemima Laing

improve the lot of her beloved ‘bluejackets’ and even published a book in 1909 about her work with them. Her other accomplishments include the establishment of a monthly magazine called ‘Ashore and Afloat’ as well as many temperance societies on naval ships.

She was appointed Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in 1918 in recognition of her achievements.

When she passed away later that year she became the

first woman to be granted full naval honours at her funeral.

The second plaque has been installed on a private residence in Alfred Street near the Hoe in memory of the much-loved Plymouth artist Beryl Cook (19262008).

Born in Surrey in 1926, Cook moved to Plymouth in 1968 and held her first exhibition at Plymouth Arts Centre in 1975. Her paintings, many of which feature locations and scenes of Plymouth, are hugely popular and can be found in private and public collections around the world.

Alfred Street was her final home. Between 1968

and 1998 she also lived nearby, in Athenaeum Street.

Plymouth City Council Leader, Tudor Evans said: “Aggie Weston and Beryl Cook both left their mark on Plymouth and helped put the city on the map in their own distinctive ways.

I’m thrilled to see these added to our growing number of historical plaques, all of which highlight the stories of famous and lesser-known Plymouth people who achieved great things during their lifetimes.”

Find out more about many of Plymouth’s historical plaques at www. web.plymouth.gov.uk/ plymouthplaques.

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April 2021

Guildhall set for major makeover

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Plymouth’s historic Guildhall is in line for a serious makeover to attract more people into the city centre.

It is one of two buildings being lined up for restoration, reinvention and reactivation as part of the city’s Future High Streets fund programme.

Improvements to the Grade II listed Guildhall are expected to include a significant upgrade of facilities such as new toilets, an updated sound and lighting system, improved Wifi and the conference rooms will be refurbished to modern standards - although as the building is listed, the refurbishment will be sympathetic to the building’s history.

A commercial kitchen is also on the cards, ramps installed and the lifts refurbished so that the building is more accessible.

The Guildhall, including Great Hall, Assize Courts and former City Treasury was originally built in the 1870s but reduced to a shell during the Blitz. They survived - by one single Council vote in 1951 - the threat of demolition and became a focus of Plymouth’s rebuilding and the most significant survival from the bombed city centre.

It was one of the few damaged buildings to be restored rather than rebuilt, with the restoration continuing through most of the 1950s. It involved the stabilisation of what remained of the original building and the construction of new roofs, entrances and interior.

Cabinet member for Finance and city centre champion Councillor Mark Lowry said: “This building has had an incredible past and deserves an incredible future. It is right at the heart of the city and outside of the pandemic - was at the heart of some great music and community events - choirs, orchestras and wonderful tea dancing all take place in the Great Hall.”

The other building being brought back to life with is the Civic Centre.

The council earlier this year heard that the project had been offered an in-principle grant of £12,046,873 by the Future High Streets Fund.

Now Plymouth’s Cabinet is being asked to set aside £2.45 million funding previously allocated to the Civic project to pay for improvements to the Guildhall.

The Civic and Guildhall projects involve Urban Splash, Plymouth City Council and the University of Plymouth and are part of the city’s Resurgam recovery project to rebuild confidence and create a buzz that will bring more people in, for more reasons and for much longer.

Between them, the two buildings will provide a new physical and virtual conference and events hub that will connect the city globally and could bring 46,000 plus new visitors to the city.

It could also create an additional 25,000 hotel room nights a year and create 317 new full time jobs and 280 jobs in construction.

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8 April 2021

8 April 2021

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Excellence award for Derriford consultant A consultant from Derriford Hospital has won a top award for his work on behalf of liver transplant patients.

Professor Matthew Cramp won the Excellence in Transplantation Award as part of the 2021 UK Awards for Excellence in Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation.

Presented at the British Transplantation Society and NHSBT Organ Donation and Transplantation Joint Congress, held virtually this year, the awards recognise outstanding professionals and volunteers in the field of organ donation and transplantation across the UK. Winners in a total of nine categories were selected by a panel of clinicians, donor families, patients and lay representatives.

Professor Cramp, consultant hepatologist at University Hospitals Plymouth and chair in hepatology at the University of Plymouth, was nominated by a number of his colleagues due to his commitment and dedication in ensuring that patients across the South West receive equitable access to liver transplantation opportunities, which greatly impressed the judges.

Katie Ramos, Liver Transplant Nurse Specialist said: “Matthew has worked tirelessly for hepatology patients since he arrived at Derriford.

His vision for patients in the South West to get the best possible outcomes is really admirable; he fights for them to get what they need and what they deserve “In particular, Matthew’s emphasis on multidisciplinary team working to achieve a patient centred care service is really unique and clearly benefits our patients.”

Dr David Sheridan, service line director for Hepatology at Derriford added: “Matthew has been instrumental in developing an effective clinical network across the Peninsula, and building our trusted relationship with the liver transplant programme at Kings College Hospital.

“His leadership has been instrumental in providing the best possible and more localised pre and post-transplant care. We are seeing excellent patient outcomes to that effect. His expertise and strong clinical leadership has led to the development of shared care services for liver patients across the South West, and inspired future generations of hepatologists.”

Professor Cramp, who also leads the Peninsula Hepatitis C Operational Delivery Network, hopes to one day see even more localised services available for liver patients in the South West.

He said: “I’m very pleased and proud to have

New plans unveiled to make travelling around Plymouth cleaner and greener by 2023 Plymouth City Council has launched a consultation on ambitious plans to install a network of Journey Hubs, designed to make travelling around the city cleaner and greener.

To help curb emissions and encourage residents and visitors to use low carbon modes of transport, the council aims to install up to 50 Journey Hubs across Plymouth by 2023.

Each hub will provide electric vehicle (EV) charging points, e-bikes, an EV car club and links to public transport.

The scheme also includes plans for the UK’s first seagoing electric ferry.

As part of the consultation, the council wants to ask residents, businesses and commuters how they would use Journey Hubs, what features they should offer and where people think they should be located throughout Plymouth.

The council plans to install smaller hubs in residential areas and larger hubs offering more features in the city centre and main railway station.

The network of hubs will provide 300 EV charging points, 400 e-bikes and a car club, all operated through a smart booking system.

The hubs can also incorporate additional facilities such as live information boards for bus and train times, bike repair equipment and waiting areas. Local residents, employees, businesses and visitors will be able to use the hubs to plan their journeys on public and shared transportation, both in the city and on the main routes into Devon and Cornwall.

Cllr Mark Coker, Plymouth

City Council Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure said: “Plymouth has already declared a Climate Emergency and is committed to being net zero carbon by 2030 so we need encourage everyone

Cllr Mark Coker

to travel around the city in cleaner and greener ways.

“Creating the new journey hubs ticks off yet another action in our Climate Emergency Action Plan.

“Our hubs have the potential to revolutionise how we travel, offering the chance to ditch polluting petrol cars and use more sustainable, low carbon electric vehicles and e-bikes, available to hire through a smart booking system.

“We want feedback on our exciting plans and need your help in deciding what features our network of hubs should offer and where around the city they should be located to encourage maximum take-up.”

Further information on the council’s Journey Hub plans including a short video and how to respond to our consultation can be found at: https://plymouth-consult. objective.co.uk/portal/ climateandenvironment/ mobilityhubssurvey2021

Professor Matthew Cramp

been given this award, which is a reflection of the great progress we have made over many years to build and develop liver transplant services for people living in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, and a testament to the excellent outcomes we have delivered for patients over many years.

“As always this progress has been a result of a sustained team effort and I am so grateful for the help provided by so many colleagues here at the South West Liver Unit but especially the fantastic nurse team led by Amanda Clements and Katie Ramos.”

Ice skater Bradley strikes gold

A Plymouth teenager has won four Gold Medals in an international ice skating competition.

Bradley Oliver, who is 17, won the medals at the International Inclusive Championships for 2020 in men’s free skate and free dance. The results were announced by ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean when they appeared together on Zoom for the recent presentation ceremony.

Bradley felted honoured watching his video footage knowing Jayne and Chris were watching his performance too. They both congratulated Bradley on his skating and achievements.

Fellow skating competitors worldwide and their families, together with inclusive skating coaches, judges and volunteers gathered for the presentation following the championships held virtually with 40 entries judged across the different categories. Everyone cheered when they realised Torvill and Dean were making a surprise appearance.

Bradley was also ranked first in the Inclusive Paralympic International Championships for men’s free dance and men’s free skating.

In a closely fought competition each entrant had to be recorded on video independently within strict guidelines, and with qualified witnesses present.

Entries were received worldwide and judged by an independent panel of four.

Bradley, who only started skating three years ago, said he was amazed at how well he did. He first started competing in Inclusive Paralympic Competitions in September 2019, taking free dance up in February 2020, just before the first lockdown.

Bradley was lucky last year to compete face to face as well as virtually. He greatly misses training at the Top right: Bradley with his latest haul of Gold Plymouth Pavilions Ice Medals and (above) pictured at the Plymouth Pavilions ice rink in 2019 Rink at moment.

Bradley was born with many chronic health conditions, suffers severe pain and faces many challenges every day.

Unlike most of his competitors, Bradley cannot practice as much to master his routines as he has to pace and limit how much activity he does every day. With the excellent help and support of his medical team and Bradley’s determination, he is now a true ice skate king.

With Plymouth Pavilions closed, Bradley was lucky enough to get some training in at the winter ice rink at the Eden Project between the lockdowns. The next nearest permanent rink for Elite Sportspeople is nearly three hours’ drive each way, so 2021 training looks to continue via Zoom.

Bradley has off-ice blades attached to his boots to train locally in a car park or the village hall when this is permitted again to help aid fitness and keep his skills up.

Bradley’s mum, Katrina, said: “Bradley can’t wait to get back to skating on ice. He hopes he will be able to train locally and compete face to face again very, very soon. With a training camps abroad planned for later this year, he continues to look forward!”

April 2021

@PlymChronicle

9

New adult day care centre opens in Plympton A Plympton woman has realised a longheld ambition to open her own adult day care centre.

Amber Haigh and her partner Steve have set up the Daisy Chains Adult Day Care Centre which will operate out of the old Jehovah’s Witness hall in Station Road.

For Amber the new venture is the next stage of a long career in the sector. She said: “I’ve done health and social care for a long, long time. I started when I was 16, when I left school. Health and social care is in my heart.”

Amber considers the location of the centre is ideal for Plympton residents, situated in the heart of the town and will save clients having to travel into Plymouth city centre to source the type of facilities which will be on offer.

The building has had a new kitchen fitted, has ample parking and a large garden area will be a plus for events held at the centre.

The centre has already been kitted out with an air hockey and pool table as well as with books and games ready to take the first clients.

Gardening and cookery clubs will be on offer and entertainment will form a large part of the offering, with a specialist entertainments co-ordinator having been engaged to pull events together. Live music and singing are among the plans.

Some events will be put on using inhouse resources, but other people and organisations will be engaged for others and Amber is keen to hear from anyone with suitable ideas to put forward.

Improving Lives Plymouth name new chief executive Improving Lives Plymouth has appointed Rob Smith as its new chief executive who will take over when George Plenderleith retires at the end of March.

Given the importance of this role for the city, the Trustee Board decided to look nationally for someone with a business head and a charity heart and received a wide range of applications.

The recruitment process had to address the challenges of the COVID restrictions, and it was successfully completed with online solutions.

Rob Smith is an experienced chief executive within the charity sector and lives in Plymouth.

Rob will take over from George Plenderleith, who is retiring after 37 years with Improving Lives Plymouth, formally known as Plymouth Guild.

Jeremy Prichard, chair of Improving Lives Trustee Board said: “George’s achievements as chief executive are numerous, no more so than during the last 12 months of his tenure during the pandemic.

“A testament to George and his leadership of Improving Lives Plymouth, is the way that he has led the team at ILP through what is surely one of the most challenging years in the charity’s history.

“The Trustee Board and the staff are immensely grateful to George for his leadership and dedication throughout his time with the Guild and Improving Lives Plymouth and wish him a long and happy retirement.”

The centre will cater for adults with learning difficulties, people facing issues of loneliness and isolation as well as those with onset dementia who are still able to get out but need extra support.

It will also enable families to enjoy a bit of respite while their loved ones are engaged at the centre for the day.

It will be available to both private and socially funded clients and Amber is able to point people in the right direction to ascertain if social funding is available.

A COVID compliant open day was held on March 7 with the centre opening for business the following day on limited numbers as allowed by current rules applying to

The Daisy Chains team (above left) and some of the facilities available

vulnerable people.

As COVID restrictions ease more clients will be taken on with the centre in normal circumstances being able to cater for up to 50 people.

The Plympton centre is not the end of Amber’s ambitions. She added: “I’ll be looking to open a second and a third and my long term goal is to have my own care home.”

Daisy Chains Adult Day Care Centre can be contacted on 01752 342134, or by e-mail at daisychainhealthcare@hotmail. com or by searching Daisy Chains Adult Day Care Centre on Facebook.

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

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10 April 2021

10 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Key opening dates for Plymouth Life Centre facilities announced Parts of Plymouth Life Centre will be opening again in April in line with the national reopening of the leisure sector.

The gym and new changing rooms will be available from April 12, with the 50 metre pool and leisure pool opening at the end of April. Other facilities and activities will also begin to reopen in accordance with the Government’s roadmap to easing lockdown restrictions.

Contractors Balfour Beatty, Arcadis and operators Everyone Active are working flat out to finish the work programme which started last August and the finishing line is in sight.

When Plymouth Life Centre reopens, the vast majority of ‘dry’ facilities will be available. Work on the diving pool is expected to be complete by early June.

The work follows more investigations and a complete re-render and re-tile of the pool walls was instigated to prevent further works being required further down the line. These additional works have affected the timescales for the dive pool reopening but significantly, swimming and other aquatic activities will available from end of April.

Other leisure facilities will be open in line with Government announcements of the sector, including the Brickfields Athletics Track and All Weather Pitch from March 29 and indoor facilities at Brickfields and Plympton Swimming Pool from April 12.

The council has also given the go-ahead for the Tinside Lido and Mount Wise Swimming Pools to open on May 1, a month earlier than usual.

On reopening, Plymouth Life Centre will reflect

the latest standards in the ever-evolving fitness sector with increased COVID-19 safety, new carbon reduction measures and an overall improved customer experience.

The key enhancement elements remain on track and are progressing well ahead of the reopening, these include: • Refitting male and female gym change areas with new lockers, cubicles, LED lighting and fixtures and fittings • A new fitness studio, to be used for yoga, Pilates and other group classes • Replacing carpet and floor coverings in many areas of the building: viewing galleries, bowls hall and circulation spaces • Upgrades to heating and ventilation systems throughout the building, which improve air quality and mitigate the risk from air borne viruses and contagions, such as COVID-19 Deputy Leader, Pete Smith said; “The contractors onsite at Plymouth Life Centre have done an excellent job progressing works in what has been a particularly challenging period with rising coronavirus infections over the past few months.

“We are on track to reopen a significant number of activities at the Plymouth Life Centre in line with the earliest national timescales, followed shortly afterwards by the 50m and leisure pool, but we are aware this is subject to the overall control of coronavirus in England.

“We know people are keen to get back in the water as soon as possible which is why we plan to open the outdoor pools earlier to give our swimmers choice.

Dartmoor based children’s clothing designer proves a hit during lockdown

Kirsty Sidgreaves and (inset) one of her Sid & Tumble outfits

When 50 year old Kirsty Sidgreaves became a mum, she realised that climbing the corporate ladder was not going to fit in with her new family.

Luckily Kirsty, originally from Scotland, had another dream. To set up her own business, designing and selling quality clothing for children, aged from birth to four years old, which were practical, fun and made in Britain.

Kirsty, who lives at Roborough Down said: “I loved being at home with my son but my brain was still brimming with creative ideas and I knew I had the skill and determination to create something special.

“Finding good quality British made children’s clothes was such a challenge so I got out my sketch book and set about designing my own. This was when Sid &

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Tumble was born.”

The clothes are all designed around one ethos - to look great, allow children to move and to feel soft on the skin.

Joining forces with Makers HQ in Plymouth has enabled Sid & Tumble to achieve the ‘Made in Britain’ registered collective mark to show the products have been designed and made by a British company.

“My aim is to bring British made designer clothes into the lives of as many children as possible. Using the best quality fabrics and vibrant designs, I have created a range of luxury clothes for boys and girls to enjoy wearing during the all-important first years of their lives”, added Kirsty.

To find out more about Kirsty and the Sid & Tumble brand visit www.sidandtumble.co.uk

@PlymChronicle

Self-service dog washing is expected to be popular at new Plympton store A new pet supplies shop and dog washing facility has opened in Plympton. The Dog Dip is the brainchild of owner Philip Toms who has opened the business at Chantry Court, off Marshall Road.

April 2021

Plympton police issue warning over e-scooters Plympton Police have issued a warning to owners of e-scooters: don’t ride them in any public place or risk breaking the law and having the scooter seized.

The shop opened with a limited service at the beginning of March but it is hoped the business will move into full swing from April 12 when lockdown restrictions are expected to be eased to allow a full range of services to be offered.

When the full range of services are allowed there will be dog grooming and nail cutting as well as a new type of service which is expected to be quite popular - self service dog washing.

Three special baths have been put in at the shop to enable owners to bath their own canines, although serviced baths by staff will be available for those owners who would prefer that.

A self-service dog wash includes 30 minutes use of the bath, including shampoo, towels and dryer.

A loyalty card system will be offered, providing for the tenth wash to be available free of charge.

Initially it is anticipated not all three baths will be able to be used at once due to social distancing requirements but the ultimate aim is to increase capacity to allow for all three to be used.

The baths have harness points so the dog can be suitably restrained during the wash.

The business is strategically placed on a popular dog walking route leading into the grounds of Saltram, lending itself to passing trade.

There is also a coffee and drinks area inside the shop which, once COVID restrictions permit, will allow dog owners to sit and relax while their pooch is being pampered.

At the moment the store is limited to counter

Philip Toms outside the new shop in Plympton

sales and deliveries, but for pet food supplies they don’t just cater for dogs; there’s also food supplies for cats, birds, guinea pigs, chickens and fish to name just some.

General Manager at the store is John Chinnock.

He said: “If we don’t have something in stock, we will try to source it. One recent enquiry was even about something for a horse.”

The shop is able to cater for those on small budgets. John said: “For some in stock products

we can even offer a scoop out service so you don’t have to buy the full bag.”

The store is also a collection point for Bramble’s Pet Food Bank, where people can either buy products in store and donate to the bank or drop off items brought in from home. Bramble’s Pet Food Bank has been set up to help people and families who are struggling and need support to have access to food for their loving pets.

(Story courtesy of The Plympton Podcast)

In a post on the Plympton Police Facebook page PCSO Elaine Hesketh wrote: “I have noticed that there is an increasing number of e-scooters on the roads, on the pavements and in other public places.

“In order to help our residents stay safe and on the right side of the law I thought I would find out and share with you exactly what the rules are.

“While e-scooters are legally available to purchase, it’s currently against the law to ride a privately owned e-scooter in any public place in the UK. This includes roads, pavements, parks, town centres or canal towpaths.

“The only place a privately owned e-scooter can be used is on private land. This is because e-scooters are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs) so they are treated as motor vehicles.

As such, if they are used on a road, pavement or public place they are subject to the same legal requirements as any motor vehicle.

“We understand that e-scooters are very tempting for presents, and a great way to get around, but we would urge people to fully understand the law first.

“If you are found to be using an e-scooter in a public place, the scooter could be seized, and the rider reported for any offences.

“We would also urge anyone using an e-scooter legally - on private land - to carefully consider their safety before doing so. All riders should wear a helmet, younger riders particularly, would benefit from additional protective clothing such as knee and elbow pads to minimise injury.”

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12 April 2021

Sherford Life How hopeful are you? Maybe you’re daring to dream again, or maybe you’re feeling cynical as new promises come out of Downing Street.

The Government has held out to us a hope that we can have life again after Easter. The miracle of science and the saviour vaccine have come to our rescue!

And what a fantastic job our local NHS heroes are doing, getting the vaccine rolled out so quickly across Plymouth and Devon.

Yet we know instinctively that there’s more to life than physical health. And so we need a more rounded hope than just that the vaccine will protect us from illness.

What are you daring to hope for this Summer and

By Revd Tom Brassil beyond?

I’m hopeful for our children. As I write, my children are busy enjoying their first day back at school since before Christmas. Schools across our region are opening up again, hopefully never to have to close down in the same way again.

I’m hopeful that our Sherford Toddler Group will be able to start again soon, and connect up all those young families who have been so isolated over the past year. I’m hopeful that Sherford’s new Community Hub will be a focal point for bringing people safely together and battling loneliness and hopelessness in all ages.

I’m hopeful for our local businesses who will soon be able to open their doors again. My hope is that we won’t have lost too many during the various lockdowns. I have particular hopes for my two favourite cafés on the Barbican and in Plymstock.

I’m hopeful that it will soon be safe to eat out with my family. Where are you looking forward to visiting again soon?

I’m hopeful for individuals who have been battling depression and isolation.

People who deserve a bit of good news at long last!

I’m hopeful that the mix of warmer weather and greater safety in gathering will begin the process of healing for those who have felt downtrodden or left behind.

All of these things could be starting to happen by the time you read this: hope of life after Easter! Of course, Christians have believed for centuries that life begins at Easter: not with a miracle vaccine but a miracle resurrection – Jesus beating death once and for all!

And the brilliant thing about this hope is that it is based squarely on something that has already happened, rather than on continuing to keep an eye on ‘the data’.

Jesus’ friend Peter wrote that, “In his great mercy God has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3, the Bible).

Will you find time to celebrate that new life and that certain hope this Easter?

We’ll be livestreaming our Easter Sunday celebration on Facebook, as will many other churches. Why not tune in and celebrate with us?

If you have any questions about Sherford life, or if you would like to know more about Sherford Community Church or about what real hope looks like, please contact me at tom@sherfordchurch.net

12 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Sherford’s next chapter begins, with more green goals and a family focus Work has started on the crucial next stage of Sherford, which will see yet more of the grand vision for the town come to life.

The Sherford Consortium is embarkling on the latest phase, which will include 457 new homes, a big extension to the country park, and the creation of further family-friendly green spaces.

This is the vital next stage in a project, in planning for over two decades, which will eventually have over 5,500 homes and countless community facilities.

The expanding town is being brought to life by the Sherford Consortium – a partnership between Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Partnerships, part of the Vistry Group which includes Bovis Homes and Linden Homes.

Spanning a 175-acre area to the east of the first homes at Sherford, the new phase will take several years to be fully developed – and much of the early activity will involve earthworks, groundwork and ecological work.

This follows the work of an archaeological team, which has been conducting investigations on site.

Significant features of this major new phase will include a substantial expansion to the parkland; the site of the country park will increase fourfold and new recreational spaces and eco measures will be added.

The new neighbourhood will be surrounded on three sides by expansive green space and parkland. The country park will grow by 60-acres, incorporating formal areas for walking, relaxing and playing, as well as informal spaces including meadows and woodland. Livestock from Sherford’s existing farms will graze on pastures in dedicated parts of the park.

Almost 30-acres of extra green space will be created to the north west of the country park which will include wetlands, Sherford Quarry and West Sherford Wood. Within the woodland will be the West Sherford Wood adventure zone, an active space set to include a children’s playground and adventure play facilities. While the features of this and the finer details will be decided in planning processes in the coming years, this space promises to be a huge amount of family fun.

Sherford Quarry will be transformed into a nature conservation area, with extensive planting to support the many species of local wildlife there and within the nearby lime kilns, which is recognised as a site of

Families enjoying Sherford’s green spaces

ecological interest. This area will be open to public access for the first time, becoming a quiet place to observe local wildlife, walk amongst the trees and settle for a picnic.

Hundreds of new homes will be created in this new Sherford neighbourhood, 20% of which will be dedicated to affordable housing. It will also gain two new town squares. Continuing the commitment to making Sherford a pinnacle of sustainable living, the new phase will include a network of footpaths and cycle paths, connecting through the town and forming trails through the green spaces.

Both residents and wildlife will benefit from the creation of wetlands, an orchard and abundant wildflower meadows, bringing an even more ecologically diverse variety of spaces to explore. The wetlands serve another valuable function, as permanent open water areas set within sustainable drainage basins, designed to naturally store and drain excess water from heavy rainfall.

Extensive ecological work will go into retaining hedgerows, protecting the Sherford Stream, preserving woodland and creating new habitats.

Sherford already has miles of ‘wildlife corridors’ – connected green spaces that enable wildlife to move and thrive – and this new phase will see even more created.

‘Dark corridors’ will mitigate the impacts of

light at night, which will particularly benefit the bat population. In addition to Sherford’s bat bridge at the entrance of the town, the new phase will also include two bat ‘hopovers’ to enable them to navigate the area safely.

The Sherford Consortium’s vision for this major new stage of the development have been supported by South West architect and planning firm, Barton Willmore.

Darren England, project director at Vistry Partnerships, part ofthe Sherford Consortium, said: “The progress made at Sherford is already so impressive and so we are thrilled to be moving on to the next stage of creating this unique new community.

With hundreds of high-quality new homes, two new town squares and an array of exciting recreational spaces, Sherford’s next chapter promises to be a positive one with huge potential.”

Ian Pugsley, of Taylor Wimpey, said: “We are continuing our commitment to making Sherford a successful and sustainable new community, with virtually as much land dedicated to green space as it is to buildings. It is a pleasure to begin work on a neighbourhood where the great outdoors features so prominently. From new woodlands and play areas, to cycling routes and an orchard, this will be both an incredible addition to the area and a special place to live.”

New playground all set to open in April Final preparations are underway to open Sherford’s first playground, and reopen the skatepark and multi-use games area.

The Sherford Consortium plan to open the new facilities in early April, dependent on the weather and how the COVID roadmap unfolds.

Completing the path surfacing and installing seating, picnic tables and cycle racks, forms much of the final stage of work. A period of dry weather is essential to lay the tarmac pathways and enable the team to finish the area as planned.

The area will have a safety inspection by RoSPA, followed by some final finishing touches to the landscaping, to seed over any areas that require it after the recent wet weather. When the gates are ready to open, we will make the announcement!

The new play area will include everything from climbing nets and structures, to rotating balance beams and a fireman’s pole. One key element will be a large piece of ‘multi use’ equipment with gangways, a slide, nets, climbing walls and balance beams.

Classic playground equipment like swings and slides will sit alongside a climbing whirl and stepping posts. It will also will have wheelchair accessible elements including auditory equipment and access to the jungle swing.

Some residents had enjoyed using the skatepark and multi-use games area briefly over the festive period.

When this closed due to COVID restrictions in January, it allowed the area to be improved and permanent surfaces to be laid, which will Artist’s impression of the new playground transform the whole area.

April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Work of top British artists to go on show in Plymouth

LOOK II: Council set the record straight

LOOK II, the sculpture designed by world famous artist Sir Antony Gormley, has created plenty of debate since its installation on West Hoe Pier in September last year.

Now, in the wake of some false information about the sculpture, Plymouth City Council has published an extensive fact file in the form of a Q&A which can be found at www. plymouth.gov.uk/newsroom/plymouthnews/ findoutfactsaroundlookii The story behind LOOK II began in 2017 when the Council’s Cabinet agreed to support a number of major projects as part of the Mayflower 400 programme. This had cross-party support and included a ‘world class artwork’ to be unveiled in 2020, along with the opening of The Box. Plymothians have given the sculpture the nickname of Rusty Reg, reflecting its rusty look.

Made from 22 blocks in one cast iron form and weighing three tonnes, the engineers and

designers have calculated it will still be sturdy after 100 years as long as it is looked after.

The council have denied claims that the sculpture cost £750,000 pointing out that this figure included a number of projects in the area, including essential strengthening works to protect West Hoe Pier against damage from the sea.

LOOK II was funded through the council’s capital budget and part of the Mayflower 400 programme for the city, where the council’s contribution of £5 million was matched by another £4.5 million from other organisations, including the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Arts Council.

The council point out that because LOOK II was part of the capital programme, the money could not have been spent on core services such as road repairs or helping the homeless - which are paid for through the revenue budget which is funded from Council Tax. In response to suggestions that LOOK II should not have gone ahead during the pandemic the

Plymouth is to host the prestigious British Art Show next year.

council point out that decisions about funding a monument were made in 2017, while the decision to install LOOK II and all the planning work involved took place before the pandemic.

The council highlight the benefits of LOOK II by pointing out: “Antony Gormley is famous around the world. It’s a real coup to have one of his artworks here in our city.

“We hope that the sculpture will act as an attraction for visitors to the city from around the region and the rest of the country.

“They will come to Plymouth, they’ll eat, they’ll probably shop, they might even stay over, which puts more money into the Plymouth economy and in the long term, helps residents and businesses to prosper.

“We’ve had feedback from people who love Look II and people who hate it. But it has caused a discussion, and has definitely taken its place amongst the sights that our fantastic city is known for.”

Urgent work to repair waterfront storm damage Work will begin shortly to repair storm damaged steps on the Hoe Foreshore as part of the council’s commitment to one of the city’s most loved locations.

An urgent decision has authorised work to repair the semi-circular steps to the east of Tinside as well as a section of granite to the west on a seawall next to the steps. The area is used daily by wild swimmers to get into the sea but big chunks of concrete have been washed away and a Damaged on the Hoe foreshore caused by storms is to be repaired

void has formed beneath the steps.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet member for finance said: “We know how important the waterfront is to all our residents - the swimmers, kayakers, paddle-boarders as well as people who just want to pop up for an ice cream and take in the views.

“It’s been massively important to people over the last year, playing a huge part in stressbusting and keeping people healthy.

“We are constantly investing in the waterfront and as a city with National Marine Park status will continue to - there’s a lot more to come!”

A sum of £612,000 is going into the council’s capital programme to enable a more substantial repair to take place. It will include drilling in stainless steel tie anchors and having the void filled in. Sections of the steps have failed and the plan is to remove the failed steps and build a concrete support wall behind it in stages. Marine grade concrete for the repair will need to be pumped from the road above.

Councillor Lowry added: “Like

13

any repairs that take place by the sea, it is not a simple job. We have to take into account time, tide, weather and not to mention the fact that much of the kit to do the job will need to sit on a barge to enable the work to take place.”

The work is the latest in a long list of projects designed to make the most of the waterfront and keep up the battle against time tide and salty sea air. Over the last few years the following locations have had some serious repair work: • The Mayflower Steps and portico have been sensitively restored as well as the West Pier, with cobbles re-layed and new seating added - £370,000 • Phoenix Wharf - the historic pier was

completely refurbished and the former Mayflower sailing club transformed into a swish waterfront eatery - £658,000 • West Hoe cliffs have been stabilised - £284,000 • New toilets haveopened at West Hoe – £450,000 and work on the new loos on the Hoe promenade is just about to start • Mount Wise sea wall repaired - £120,000 • Tinside Pool repairs after winter storm damage - £52,000 • Foreshore repairs - £1.118m • Mount Batten pontoon £437,000 • Road and footpath near Jennicliff £287,000

Held every five years to showcase the work of British artists who have made a significant contribution to international contemporary art, British Art Show 9 (BAS 9) will be shown across four city venues - The Box, The Levinsky Gallery at the University of Plymouth, The Gallery at Plymouth College of Art and KARST. A total of 47 artists have been selected following extensive research by curators Irene Aristizebal and Hammad Nasar. They include Turner Prize winners and bursary recipients and artists who have represented Britain at the prestigious Venice Biennale. Many of the artists are developing new works for the exhibition which will include sculpture, film, installation, performance, painting and photography.

BAS9 will explore three overarching themes: healing, care and reparative history; tactics for togetherness; and imagining new futures.

All three were devised before the COVID-19 pandemic and last summer’s Black Lives Matter protests, but are now more relevant than ever.

Plymouth City Council Leader, Tudor Evans said: “British Art Show 9 has been developed at such an unprecedented time in our history and it will be a truly exciting moment for Plymouth when it goes on display here.

“Although the tour has had to be revised due to the continuing impact of COVID-19, the new schedule is a testament to the collaboration an exhibition of this scale involves. We’re very honoured to be the city that will round off the nationwide tour and are looking forward to working in partnership with everyone involved over the next few months.”

The national tour will visit Wolverhampton, Aberdeen and Manchester before culminating in Plymouth from October 8 to December 23 2022.

Police appeal after man is robbed in Stonehouse Police investigating a report of robbery in the Stonehouse area are appealing for information.

A man aged in his 20s was allegedly assaulted and had cash stolen stolen by two suspects in a service lane running adjacent to Melbourne Street at around 3.35pm on Friday 29 January.

He sustained minor injuries.

The first suspect is described as a white male, around 6ft in height, of medium build, with short, dark hair.

He is believed to have been wearing a black North Face beanie hat, black North face neckwarmer, a dark blue Hugo Boss tracksuit top and a dark-coloured puffer jacket.

The second suspect is described as white male, around 5ft 8in in height, of fat build with a ‘beer belly’.

He had mid-length, brown hair which was shaved at the sides and was wearing a white T-shirt with a central red logo on its front.

Officers would like to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident or remembers seeing males matching the descriptions given in the area at the time.

A 33-year-old man from the Plymouth area has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Call police with information on 101, or email 101@dc.police.uk, quoting crime reference CR/007344/21.

14 April 2021

Freeport could unlock major funding and create up to 9,000 new jobs

Plymouth is to become a Freeport, unlocking million pounds of funding for the area - both with within the city’s boundaries and across wider South Devon area.

Plymouth City Council led a partnership with Devon County and South Hams District Council as well as the Heart of the South West LEP on a bid to become a freezone which would include sites at Devonport South Yard, Langage Energy Zone and Sherford Business Park.

The Plymouth and South Devon freezone would aim to create space for businesses to import goods and materials, add value to them (by manufacture), and export them and leverage Plymouth’s marine innovation strengths to attract big marine sector tech companies. Industry giants Babcock and Princess Yachts have already backed the bid.

A key factor in the bid is the city’s commitment to high tech marine innovation with a focus on carbon zero technology.

Up to 1,000 new jobs could be created in the first two years and up to 9,000 over the next 10 years and 50 new apprenticeships and 10 internships every year by 2027.

More than 70 local businesses are expected to benefit from the scheme, which is forecast to bring in over £100m investment in the next six years.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “This is a big deal with big numbers. While we are waiting for the detail I am beyond chuffed that our thriving marine sector has been recognised as a strength and something to build on.

“It also shows that working with our neighbouring colleagues pays off.

Bottom line this means jobs, job security, opportunities and significant investment.

“We are calling our Freeport a freezone because it is about much more than a port.

This will benefit a lot of people across this area. This is also much needed recognition that levelling up is as important for us in Plymouth in the far the South West as it is to the North of England.”

The bid was based on three strategic pillars - marine and defence innovation, manufacturing and light processing, warehousing and staged imports.

Under the new Freeport status the proposed sites would enjoy specific tax and relief benefits with companies based there able to access special allowances encouraging firms to invest.

The aim would be to increase export trade and direct foreign investment.

Another goal would be to not only increase the number of jobs, but the calibre of jobs and encourage higher income jobs into the area through research and innovation opportunities The knock-on effect locally will enable Devon County Council to bring forward works at the Deep Lane junction on the A38, unlocking housing at Sherford.

Once the councils have more details from the Government about their model, they will be working up a more detailed business case. If all goes to plan, the Freezone could be up and running by summer of next year.

14 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Plympton’s dedicated band of litter pickers cleaning up!

A dedicated group of volunteers in Plympton are part of a growing network of litter pickers across the city.

Inspired by the Clean Our Patch Community Litter Pickers, 45 people first met at Plympton Library two years ago with the aim of spring cleaning the centre of accumulated litter.

Two hours later, while enjoying coffee and cake, they were amazed to find that their efforts had resulted in the collection of 115 bags of litter!

From that beginning, a group of litter-pickers continued to meet regularly for a year or so, once a month for a couple of hours, varying the location so that they tackled different areas of Plympton.

On average they collected around 25 bags of litter, along with a variety of bigger abandoned items such as old prams, parts of cars, traffic cones and other rubbish.

The social side of the activity meant that their regular litter picks always culminated in coffee and cake, or sometimes a visit to a local hostelry for a good social chat.

Coronavirus put paid to the monthly meet-ups but, so keen were the litter-pickers, that have have continued to pick litter individually, and, more recently in socially distanced couples.

Plympton Litter Pickers continue to collect impressive quantities of litter, both the everyday fast-food wrappings, drink cans and plastic bottles that abound, but are also finding very old rubbish in the undergrowth and hedgerows which sometimes is centimetres deep - swamping any growth of new wildflowers and plants and trapping wild-life.

Cathy Loft, who co-ordinates the group’s efforts along with Carolyn Hadji and Jenny Ayrton said: “It is not uncommon for us to find small dead mammals that have been caught in a can or a bottle and drowned.

“Numerous fly-tips have been reported to the council and promptly cleared, and we have tackled quite a number of ‘grot spots’ around the area. On one occasion we needed a council truck to take away hundreds of empty beer bottles which were being added to daily!

She added that 300 full dog poo bags have been removed from one place very recently, and, in that same week they had collected 900 dog poo bags around Plympton!

Cathy said: “During the two years that we have been litter picking we have collected over 3,600 bags of litter, which equates to around 80 tonnes!

We average 80 bags a week at the moment, which is an incredible achievement by our volunteers.”

As well as picking up litter, the group is becoming more proactive in its quest to maintain Plympton as somewhere to be proud of, by working alongside local shops, and obtaining evidence for the provision of additional bins, and working closely with Plymouth City Council to begin to tackle dog-fouling.

Cathy added: “Litter-picking groups are springing up all over the country, and are achieving enormous success in their work, and litter-picking is finding a role as a leisure activity because it is such a rewarding thing to do, whilst providing exercise and is a great way of meeting with like-minded people.

“So, two years on, and going very strong. We

always are very happy to welcome new members, of all ages, and are so looking forward to being able to meet together as a group again.”

For information or to join the group visit the Clean Our Patch page on Facebook.

Plans to improve Plymouth’s roads to keep the city moving Removing a redundant rail bridge and improving major junctions and roundabouts are among the ambitious proposals being put forward to improve the flow of traffic on some of Plymouth’s key roads.

As part of its Major Road Network (MRN) programme, Plymouth City Council is proposing a number of schemes to improve journeys on the route through the city that runs from the A38 Marsh Mills Roundabout to the A38 Weston Mill junction via the Embankment, Cattedown, city centre and Camels Head.

In a consultation launched in February, the council wants to hear the views of commuters, pedestrians, cyclists, disabled users and bus passengers on this route, as well as people who live on or near it.

The programme is currently at a very early stage of the development. No decisions with regard to design have yet been taken and people’s views will be important in helping shape the final plans.

The planned works - if they get the go-ahead and funding from the Department for Transport - would mean an almost £50m investment in Plymouth’s transport infrastructure with the aim of reducing congestion and accidents, helping people travel more by bus, cycle and by foot, as well as supporting economic growth and housing.

The population of the city is expected to grow to more than 300,000 by 2034 with an expected 19,000 new homes and 16,000 new jobs.

The proposed programme will include targeted junction improvements at traffic hotspots including:

• A38/A374 Marsh Mills roundabout • A374/A379 Cattedown Roundabout • A38/A3064 Weston Mill junction to Camels Head Other improvements outlined in the plan are: • New and improved pedestrian/cycle infrastructure including safer crossing points • Widening part of the A3064 St Budeaux Bypass • Removing the low rail bridge (Seagull Bridge) on Embankment Road to improve access for HGVs • Flood protection works at Arnold Point on the Embankment, to significantly reduce the risk of flooding affecting both Embankment Road and the nearby mainline rail route • Carriageway reconstruction works Further information on the council’s plans and how to respond to the consultation can be found at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/mrn Councillor Mark Coker, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Transport and Strategic Infrastructure said: “These are well known local hot spots where congestion is only likely to get worse as the city grows.

“This project could give us the chance to keep these economically important roads resilient, reliable and effective in the future and support both the local and national economy.

“We have all got caught in jams at some point and we believe these interventions will not only keep the traffic flowing, they will make our roads safer for everyone including cyclists and pedestrians, and no doubt help reduce people’s blood pressure.

“These are still early plans and we have identified these sites as areas where we believe changes could really make a difference - but we are keen to get residents and businesses’ input on the plans and would urge people to respond to the consultation with their views.”

The Department for Transport recently designated the A38 Marsh Mills to A38 Weston Mill route as part of its national Major Road Network (MRN), thereby recognising the strategic importance of this route to the country’s economy.

The Government wants to encourage improvements nationally that aim to reduce congestion and the economic impact of traffic delays. The Government’s programme also aims to: • Support economic growth and rebalance the economy by providing better connections between people and businesses, and markets and international gateways • Support housing delivery – unlocking new housing developments and providing a transport network that allows for future development • Support all road users – recognising the needs of, and delivering benefits for, all road users Should all parts of the scheme go ahead, the cost would be in the region of £48 million, with the Government funding around £40m, with the rest met by the council and developer contributions. The work would be carried out in phases over a period of three years, beginning as early as 2023.

Community Money Matters Citizens Advice Plymouth has embarked on a pioneering project working with the Neighbourhood Care Networks to support the growing number of people in the city facing financial crisis. With news from the debt charity, Stepchange, that there are now 1.2million people across the UK in severe debt and household borrowing due to the coronavirus at £10.3bn, so CAP has increased its commitment to helping those in Plymouth in financial difficulties.

Ageing well:

living better POP has embarked on a major South West study into ‘ageing’ to try and find out what helps or hinders people to remain independent as they get older. The work which is being carried out with the Plymouth Social Enterprise Network as part of the Devon-based social investment project, SIMPL, will see hundreds of people in Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay take part in the hope that their experiences of ageing can help to improve it for others.

The conversations, which will be carried out by a team of community researchers over the next six months, will help POP to understand how individuals can be better supported as they get older.

The CEO of POP, Matt Bell, believes the key is in trying to understand what makes each person’s experience unique: “We hope to find out what factors might enable someone to be – or not to be ‘independent’, for example, the existence of family; friendships; their own approach to getting older; financial circumstances and whether or not they feel part of a ‘community’.

We will be talking with individuals (and recording their conversation) about their experiences and circumstances along with their concerns, and any fears they might have, about their future. Through talking and listening, we hope to learn how society can make ‘getting older’ a more-positive experience for people and, for some, a lessfrightening one.”

POP is hoping to speak with people from as many different backgrounds as possible: men, women, LGBTQ+ people; people from all ethnic groups and people with disabilities, furthermore, we want to hear from anyone that is experiencing life through more than one of these lenses.

We are looking for people to be trained as ‘community researchers’ and for older people to participate in the project:

We are looking for people to ask the questions; hold the conversation and capture the information.

g You will take part in two trainin and tion ple com r afte , sessions and will be committing to the project, you ing lud paid reasonable expenses (inc the and g nin for your time) for the trai interviews. h to Age is not a barrier (!): we wis g the din hol ple peo ng see some you e abl valu ng vidi pro and interviews outh. research on communities in Plym

Across the city, Neighbourhood Care Networks continue to support individuals in their communities.

If you or your organisations would like to volunteer, text 07411 949 742.

NCN’s Helpline Numbers:

Efford Community Network

Efford Community Network

Efford 07380 309 586

Efford 07380 309 586

We are looking for individuals to share their experiences and help us to establish what can help or hinder someone to be independent as they age.

The conversations will last about half an hour and will be recorded.

YOU are more important than the research, so, rest assured, you do not have to talk about anything you do not want to.

POP supports nearly 400 members from the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in the city, a significant number of which are already working to support older people and help reduce loneliness and social isolation.

As Matt says; “We wish to help our members find new ways of supporting people and of benefitting from the financial opportunities that will come through the need for greater social investment around ‘ageing’. Ultimately, we want to make growing older better for everyone.”

If you would like to be involved, please contact info@plymouthoctopus.org

The initiative – The Plymouth Community Debt Project – is the first of its kind in the country and will see volunteers working as community debt advisors in the heart of their communities. Selection has begun to identify the first wave of (appropriate) volunteers with training due to start immediately. As, Tracy Ondrak, who is in charge of the project for the Citizen’s Advice Plymouth says, it’s about going to the people; “We are working with all the Neighbourhood Care Networks in Plymouth to train ten individuals - already trusted within their communities - so that they can support people straightaway, give them advice and, most importantly, help them make an immediate change to their circumstances.”

What’s crucial about these ‘community debt advice volunteers’ says Tracy is that they are already part of their communities; “We know that CAP can be seen as a bit ‘faceless’, while people in the hubs are already often known to people. They may be more likely to be able to get someone to do something about their financial circumstances if they can establish a rapport with them.”

The Stepchange report, Tackling the Coronavirus Personal Debt Crisis, also found that more than seven million people have borrowed money or fallen behind on utility or council tax payments with each person averaging arrears of £1,365 and debts of £1,577. Tracy believes there is worse to come: “As we come out of lockdown, people are going to be left with the financial impact of all this and many are just going to bury their heads in the sand which will just cause more complications. But, by putting advisors in the community, we can help people sooner rather than later.”

If you – or anyone you know – is worried about money, please contact CAP on the debt advice line: 07377 262979

16 April 2021

Up to £45,000 of match funding for creative digital projects In support of Plymouth’s iMayflower programme, Crowdfunder is looking for creative and digital projects in Plymouth to take part in a unique coaching programme.

The 10 projects selected will each receive £250 towards a crowdfunding campaign, 1-2-1 coaching and access to a possible £45,000 in match funding through Plymouth City Council.

Creative industries have been hit hard by the pandemic and Crowdfunder is looking to support the digital innovations that can help them to adapt and thrive.

From immersive technology to augmented reality, creatives with an idea for a new product, service or experience that they are looking to take to the next level, Crowdfunder wants to hear from them and help make it happen.

Crowdfunding is about much more than money. It gives people a digital platform to validate creative ideas, raise awareness of new projects, and build lasting relationships.

In response to the first lockdown of the pandemic, Big Sis CIC, an organisation supporting teenage girls, created an online mentoring scheme to reflect the challenges faced by parents and girls to attend sessions.

With new zoom spaces and online workshops for both girls and parents, Big Sis CIC was able to keep in regular contact with its community, while even expanding their audience further.

Through a crowdfunding campaign they raised £18,948 from 110 supporters including £500 from the iMayflower initiative and a further £15,000 in match funding from other partners.

“We urge projects considering fundraising for a Plymouth project with creative and digital aspects to consider crowdfunding and becoming part of the iMayflower ecosystem, with further support available from partners like Plymouth College of Art, Creative England, Plymouth University, Real Ideas and Plymouth City Council,” said Dawn Bebe, co-founder, Crowdfunder.co.uk.

Anyone with a creative and digital project that needs funding can start crowdfunding today and receive their first £250 from the iMayflower Digital Creative Plymouth fund.

Pitch up and putt on the Broadway

16 April 2021

Oscar winning Hollywood director announced as first patron of Dartmoor Zoological Society Cameron Crowe, the Oscar winning Hollywood director behind We Bought a Zoo has become the first patron of Dartmoor Zoological Society charity.

We Bought a Zoo was based on zoo founder Benjamin Mee’s book of the same name, and Cameron Crowe has pledged to support the charity with the use of his name, after taking a key interest in the zoo’s conservation work.

Cameron’s patronage will help the Dartmoor Zoological Society charity continue its vital work.

Its mission is to provide a future where no animal species faces extinction, by educating, informing, inspiring and empowering people to be more connected with the natural world and take greater responsibility for their impact.

Born and raised in California, Cameron started his career as a journalist, acting as a contributing editor at Rolling Stone magazine before moving into the film industry. His first big hit was Jerry Maguire (1996) starring Tom Cruise which he wrote and directed. This was followed by Almost Famous (2000) for which he won an Academy Award in 2001 for his screenplay.

Cameron Crowe commented: “I’ve always been a fan of the incredible work the team does at Dartmoor Zoo. Since I adapted Benjamin Mee’s

book for the screenplay and directed We Bought a Zoo, I’ve kept an eye on what they are doing. I love how, as well as doing conservation work with endangered animals, they also help vulnerable people too.

“Ground-breaking stuff with war veterans and kids excluded from mainstream education, connecting them with nature, real nature with

lions and tigers in it and it seems to work! It really is inspiring and that’s why I’m proud to support the great charity which is Dartmoor Zoological Society.”

After establishing Dartmoor Zoo in 2007, the Mee family donated the zoo to the Dartmoor Zoological Society in 2014.

Coral Jonas, deputy chief executive at Dartmoor Zoo, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Cameron as a patron of Dartmoor Zoological Society. After taking a keen interest in the work we do here whilst directing We Bought a Zoo back in 2011, Cameron was keen to know how he could continue supporting the zoo.

“By becoming a patron of the charity, not only will he raise awareness of the vital conservation work we do here in Devon, he will also help to ensure we can continue protecting endangered animal species and raise awareness of how we can all do more to protect the world in which we live.”

Anyone can become a member of the charity, Dartmoor Zoological Society. In addition to showing support for the zoo, members obtain free admission for a year and can benefit from a range of exclusive discounts. For more information about Dartmoor Zoo and Dartmoor Zoological Society, visit www.dartmoorzoo.org.uk.

Bishop’s special Lent initative The Bishop of Plymouth is supporting South West businesses during Lent by only eating local produce.

The Right Reverend Nick McKinnel and his wife are only eating food sourced in Devon and Cornwall until Easter Sunday on April 4.

Bishop Nick, who is Devonian by birth, said, “This seems a helpful way to support local producers, as well as reducing the need for air and road transport, though admittedly it does go a little against the tradition of fasting in Lent.

The Bishop, who has both Plymouth and Brixham fishing ports in his patch, added: “There is excellent meat sold by local farms and with restaurants closed at the moment, fresh fish landed that morning is available for home delivery.

“Obviously bananas and mangoes can’t be on our menu, but plenty of vegetables, fruit, cereals and other foods are grown somewhere in Devon and Cornwall, as well as drinks.”

The Bishop said that during Lent there was ‘a need to look beyond ourselves.’

He said, “Times are hard for some families at the moment, and even here in Devon there are those who struggle to put food on their plates.

“It’s great to see churches and organisations like Transforming Plymouth Together working with other agencies to collect and deliver food, and to support foodbanks, a real practical example of ‘loving our neighbour.’ ” Bishop Nick said Lent, which lasts for 40 days from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday, was a good opportunity for people to reconnect with their faith ‘to give time to prayer and reading, opening ourselves afresh to God.’

Rough sleeping declines in Plymouth

Rough sleeping in Plymouth is on the decline for the third consecutive year.

Shoppers on The Broadway in Plymstock will be able to enjoy a round of mini golf when they visit the centre in April. Local company Portable Putts will be back on The Broadway from April 10 to 17 from 10am until 3.30pm.

The mini golf will be £3 for nine holes or £4 unlimited play for the day. For more information contact Nathan on 07966 251467.

@PlymChronicle

In figures released by the government in February, numbers from the official snapshot recorded in November 2020 showed that 16 people were found sleeping rough, compared to 19 in 2019, 23 in 2018 and 26 in 2017.

The count has a set criteria and includes people seen sleeping or about to bed down or bedded down in the open air in in tents or doorways or people in buildings or other places not designed for habitation like stairwells or car parks.

The Plymouth Alliance is made up of seven different organisations working together to deliver homelessness support and accommodation as well as drug and alcohol and mental health support and was commissioned by the Council in April 2019. The partners are Bournemouth

Churches Housing Association, Harbour, Shekinah, the Zone, Plymouth Access To Housing (PATH), Livewell Southwest and Hamoaze.

This recent drop in rough sleeping numbers is testament to this way of commissioning and the Alliance, who have continued to work tirelessly throughout the pandemic to respond to the Government’s ‘Everyone In’ initiative.

Following the Government’s ‘Everyone In’ directive in March 2020, the Alliance was able to secure COVID-safe supported accommodation for those vulnerable to rough sleeping within 48 hours.

Quickly, two properties were leased to provide 26 individual rooms with staff from across the Alliance providing 24-hour support. The day centre kitchen, which closed during the pandemic, delivered hot meals to the houses instead. In

the first six months of the pandemic, just these properties supported 70 people in total, 22 people moved on to supported accommodation and 5 directly into their own private rented homes.

One resident said: “With the help of the project, my support needs are being met by the staff, and I’ve been supported onto an educational course that has provided much needed structure to my days.

“I can start to sleep better and I have been helped by the workers to speak to a GP. This meant I got a referral for my mental health which has been great for me.”

A further 44 rooms were also leased and the existing supported overnight shelter completely redesigned and adapted to provide eight COVID safe individual sleep rooms and two selfcontained sleep PODS.

April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Seven dogs living in appalling conditions rescued by Gables Gables Dogs and Cats Home have rescued seven dogs found living in makeshift kennels in appalling conditions on a farm in mid Devon. The cramped, tiny, wooden kennels had no heating and the only ‘bedding’ to be seen was some filthy, compacted straw on the floor.

The seven dogs, aged from three months

to six years old, were very underweight and huddled together for warmth. There were six poodle crosses, all with badly matted coats and covered head to toe in mud and their own waste.

The seventh dog, a lurcher now named Martha, had the opposite problem as she was suffering from severe hair loss and infected

Ruth from Gables Dogs and Cats Home with three of the rescued dogs

sores all over her body. Her tail had been badly chewed and damaged, leaving open wounds that were also infected.

All seven dogs were very nervous and had diarrhoea, with the majority of them also suffering from sore infected ears and in desperate need of dental treatment.

Gables took all seven dogs into their care and after thorough checks from their vet, started the treatment they needed, including a hernia repair for one of the poodle crosses named Alice. They have all been clipped, trimmed and tidied up to help them feel more comfortable by Dee from Deesigner Pets, who kindly volunteered her time to help them.

It is estimated it will cost Gables around £1,200 for all the treatment they have received, plus all the ongoing medical care needed. This will include treatment for their individual medical conditions, neutering, medical baths, dental treatment, microchipping and flea and worm treatment for them all.

Claire Sparkes, general manager said: “Having witnessed first-hand the conditions these dogs were living in, we were determined to get them out of there as quickly as possible.

“Although they were nervous when they first arrived at Gables, most of these dogs have quickly found their feet and it is so lovely to see them enjoying some fuss and attention now. However, a few of them have struggled to cope so will need some

Alice needed urgent medical treatment

extra time and patience. As a genuine noneuthanasia charity we are more than happy to give them all the time they need to learn to trust humans again and find the perfect forever homes they deserve.”

Gables Dogs and Cats Home does not receive any government funding and has felt the financial strain from the Coronavirus pandemic, but they are determined to help these seven dogs. If you can help to ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to ‘Seven Manky Pups Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www. virginmoneygiving.com/fund/7mankypups to donate online.

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18 April 2021

Over 10,000 hospital appointments are conducted by video since the start of the pandemic in Plymouth Thousands of patients at Derriford Hospital have used video consultations for their healthcare appointments instead of having to attend in person and rate their experience very highly.

Since the new scheme was launched in March last year, 10,000 consultations have taken place. Patients from the South West peninsula have benefited from this new service that has allowed more vulnerable people to see and talk to their clinicians without leaving their home. Having a video appointment also means some patients did not need to travel for over an hour to see their consultant, or pay for parking at the hospital.

Patients have also found it more relaxing to be able to talk to healthcare practitioners with a cup of tea in hand, and have been able to manage their time around an appointment more freely. Video consultations also allow patients to have their partner or family member with them during the consultation, which is not currently the case in face-to-face appointments, during the pandemic, due to the rules in place to reduce footfall into the hospital.

Simon Cowls, oncology patient said: “Meeting with your consultant in the setting of your own home is psychologically better.

And there is flexibility with it as well. If I got an appointment at say three o’clock, I’m not having to write off huge chunks of the day to travel, to park. You can literally, 10 minutes before, come into the lounge and get set up”.

Staff have been monitoring the experience of patients using video and telephone consultations very closely. Nearly 2,000 patients have taken part in survey work.

Overall satisfaction with video consultants was high, with 92% of respondents rating their experience as either very good or good.

Patients’ willingness to use remote consultations as a regular part of their healthcare in the future is also high - 83% of patients using video consultations and 70% of patients who underwent a telephone appointment said that they would be happy to have a remote consultation in future.

Mathew Swabey, project lead for video consultations said: “This uptake really demonstrates the use of technology at its best; allowing those in most need to access their health care, without having to travel and increase footfall in the hospital during times where social distancing is paramount.”

Video consultations have also brought benefits to some clinicians who have been able to see patients while they’ve been isolating or shielding themselves.

Richard Walters, specialist physiotherapist, said: “Some of my patients have liked video appointments more than other kind of appointments. They felt safer in the environment of their own home, emotionally safer. We also see people from quite big distances away, like Bude or Launceston, and that is a long way to travel, and there is a lot of cost to travel as well, so being able to have at least a first appointment via a platform that allows you to be at home makes a vast difference.”

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust patients can request video consultations by phoning the number on their appointment letter and the team will accommodate where possible.

For more information on how a video healthcare consultation works visit www. plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/videoconsult

18 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Cremyll Ferry is going electric!

The Cremyll Ferry is set to go electric after Voyager Boatyard and Plymouth Boat Trips won funding from Innovate UK to design and build e-Ferry.

The fully electric boat will become the flagship vessel on Plymouth Boat Trips’ historic Cremyll Ferry commuter route, between Plymouth and South East Cornwall.

Following the company’s recent conversion of a small, diesel work boat to e-Voyager, a 12 passenger electric design - this larger, 150 capacity vessel will operate for up to 14 hours a day on a single charge.

The funding from Innovate UK, comes as part of UK Research and Innovation, which is investing up to £191 million to fund single and collaborative research and development projects, via the Sustainable Innovation Fund, over the next two years. The aim of these competitions is to help all sectors of the UK rebuild after the effects of COVID-19.

The team at Voyager Boatyard have taken full advantage of quieter times, caused by COVID-19, to focus on the development of zero-carbon, fully electric propulsion systems for the domestic passenger vessel and under 24 metre commercial workboat sector.

Project leader, Andy Hurley said: “We have used the down time to apply for funding, that will enable us to further develop our zero-carbon agenda.

Following the success of e-Voyager, we’re delighted to move to the next phase and, once again, lead the way towards a sustainable marine future with e-Ferry.”

Voyager Marine and Plymouth

From this...the Edgcumbe Belle on the Cremyll Ferry run ...To this: computer generated image of the new ferry

Boat Trips will be working with Solis Marine Engineering, a team of expert naval architects, to create a clean hydrodynamically efficient hull form that maximises use of the stored energy available.

Simon Hindley, managing director of Falmouth based Solis Marine Engineering, said: “Projects which advance the zero-carbon agenda and marine renewables sector are

central to our work. For this project, we will be working in partnership with Pelagic Design to deliver an optimised low resistance design which helps to advance the use of clean energy in the South West.”

Both Plymouth City Council and Cornwall County Council have established targets to become carbon neutral by 2030 and plans are underway for charging points to

be installed on Plymouth’s Barbican Landing Stage and other sites.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet member for Strategic Transport and Infrastructure, said: “This is a fantastic project for the South West and we wholeheartedly endorse it.

“Economically, to see two South West-based companies combine to produce industry-leading technology does wonders for our marine sector in the city.

“I’m also delighted from a climate emergency perspective. We want Plymouth to be carbon neutral by 2030 but as a Council, we can’t do it alone. That’s why it’s so great to see a high-profile Plymouth company setting an example to others by pulling up their sleeves and helping us to meet our ambitious target.”

The e-Ferry will be designed and built to effectively operate in a congested maritime environment, with strong tidal conditions, rough seas, and challenging berthing locations.

It will also include additional zero-carbon solutions such as photovoltaic panels or similar renewable energy sources.

Andy Hurley added: “Our aims match the government’s Clean Maritime Plan, to have zero-carbon commercial vessels operating in UK waters by 2025.

“To help meet this objective, we are transitioning our business from a traditional boatyard, to a specialist hub with the knowledge base and skills to design, build, convert and maintain zero-carbon, electric, commercial vessels across the UK and globally. It’s a very exciting time for the maritime industry and the South West.”

...and so is the Mount Batten Ferry!

A vessel from the Mount Batten Ferry service fleet has had its engine replaced with a new electronic drive propulsion system and solar charging capability.

Copper, the smaller of the Mount Batten Ferry business’ fleet, has undergone the transformation to electric power over the last few months as the service has been closed to passengers due to the ongoing pandemic. The Mount Batten Ferry usually runs daily, all year round between The Barbican and Mount Batten.

The electric drive install was designed and fitted in-house by Universal Marine Services, which owns and operates the Mount Batten Ferry service, with the help of a local engineering company, Flint Engineering.

Copper’s sister ferry, Sulphar, has also had its diesel engines replaced with two fuel efficient smaller Beta engine units.

Harbour Master for Cattewater Harbour Commissioners, Captain Richard Allan said: “A year ago we launched the Port of Plymouth Air Quality strategy and invited our stakeholders to input into the strategy and consider and implement any new ideas that they may be able to adopt to improve air quality.

“With the installation of the Plymouth City Council charging points on the Barbican Landing Stage, and Copper’s new electric engine and solar charging capability, this is another hugely positive step forward as part of the Port’s commitment to improving air quality. We congratulate Captain Stevens and his team for making this conversion to electric and look forward to welcoming Copper back into service in the coming months.”

Captain Dan Stevens, owner of Universal Marine Services said: “Copper was chosen for an electric drive retrofit as it is one of Plymouth’s busiest

ferries and operates daily between The Barbican and Mount Batten. She made an ideal vessel to trial a new electric drive and will hopefully make a great addition, and leap forward, to Zero Carbon Emission transport for Plymouth’s waters.”

Copper is the second passenger ferry to be converted to electric recently, last year Plymouth Boat Trips launched e-Voyager and after undergoing rigorous sea-trials she will come into service in April.

Captain Allan added: “It really is excellent to have both ferry operators in the Cattewater investing significantly in electric craft.”

April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Then and now...Plymouth in the Key role for Carl Blitz and the scene today by trainee Royal Navy photographer Plymouth Community Homes has appointed Carl Brazier as its new director for Homes and Neighbourhoods.

Iconic images of World War Two bomb damaged Plymouth and Devonport, have been faithfully recreated by a trainee Royal Naval photographer, as part of a collection of pictures for his Defence Photography Course.

Encouraged by the rich history surrounding Devonport Naval Base and the barrack area of HMS Drake, Able Seaman Gareth Smith meticulously researched where a series of 1940s pictures were taken during the war and placed them alongside what is there today.

“I took the inspiration from working day to day around the Base and the city,” said Gareth. “I found I could identify some of the places and with a bit of leg work, research and looking around, certain landmarks in the background pointed me to the right place. Much of what was there has gone, redeveloped soon after the war, but it was amazing to get the right location, after all these years.”

The Plymouth Blitz was a series of bombing raids launched during WW2 by the German Luftwaffe. The Royal Dockyard at Devonport was the main target and in early 1941, five raids in particular reduced much of Plymouth to rubble. Nearly every civic building was

US troops by the Tamar

Derry’s Clock Tower

Sailors dancing on The Hoe

Charles Church

Carl will take up his new role on 10 March when he will oversee services including: repairs, asset management, community engagement, housing with support, income management, leaseholders, commercial lets and housing management.

PCH is responsible for managing approximately 16,000 homes and other properties in Plymouth and the surrounding areas from its headquarters at Plumer House in Crownhill.

Carl was previously director of housing and customer service for Stoke-on-Trent Council where he worked for six years. Carl said: “I’m really looking forward to joining Plymouth Community Homes. It’s clear to me that PCH is a social housing provider that has managed to strike the right balance between making good commercial decisions whilst staying true to its social purpose. I firmly believe people should have access to safe, quality homes so working for an organisation that puts its residents first and makes a difference to people’s lives is incredibly important to me.”

Carl has an impressive track-record in housing management including working closely with Regulatory agencies, with a career that has seen him work in senior housing roles within councils including: Stroud District Council, the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham and as a Board Member at First Choice Homes, a Housing Association in Oldham, Greater Manchester. At Stroud his work on Tenant Co-regulation was recognised as a role model by Government agencies.

Carl has also been influential in shaping national housing policy, taking part in a number of national groups including acting as an expert advisor for the Government’s Elphicke House Report and speaker at an All Party Parliamentary meeting on Supported Housing.

PRIDE & JOY The Home and Garden Maintenance Team

Vicarage Road camp

Our services include:

destroyed. More than two dozen schools suffered the same fate, as did 40 places of worship. Most were rebuilt but Charles Church was left in ruins as a memorial.

Despite this, and the high level of civilian casualties, the Dockyard continued in operation.

Gareth added: “This personal project really brought a sense of perspective to the catastrophic damage caused to Plymouth during the Blitz. I sought to revise important historical moments captured during WW2 in Plymouth and

Devonport, comparing them to the peaceful present day.

“It’s truly remarkable how the city rebuilt itself after the war. 1,174 people were killed and 4,448 were injured in Plymouth over the course of the war and around 30,000 people were left homeless.”

More of Gareth’s images can be found on his Instagram page at Gtsasmith Photography.

• 95-year-old Southway man’s memories of the Blitz: Back page

New scam involving National Insurance

The person calling informs the resident that their National Insurance number has been compromised or used in some way, and that a new National Insurance number will need to be issued. Personal details are then asked for.

A Devon & Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “Please be cautious of any unexpected calls. If you have any doubts about what is being asked of you or instructed by a cold caller, hang up the phone. A legitimate company or organisation will not put pressure on you or rush you.Anyone who has passed on any personal information to a cold caller should call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or make a report via the website www.actionfraud.police.uk.

People who have given out any financial information should phone theirbank or building society immediately and then make contact with Action Fraud.

E

Devon and Cornwall Police have issued a warning to people in Plymouth about scam cold calls regarding National Insurance numbers.

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20 April 2021

20 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

The one hope that is everlasting...

THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience I recently went for my usual exercise walk where we live and I experienced a beautiful feeling of profound gratitude as I observed the beauty of the countryside and the privilege of living in the South West.

I am ‘not the sharpest tool in the box’ when it comes to appreciating the beauty of creation and so it was unusual that my thinking went to the thoughts of the emergence of many creatures coming out of hibernation at the beginning of Spring.

I felt it was like how many of us are probably currently feeling, especially with the increased confidence provided by the vaccine, as we inwardly ‘cry freedom’ for the emergence from lockdown.

This appreciation of coming into Spring is also the hope of the Easter Celebrations of life coming out of death.

Like the seasons it is the rhythms and cycles of life and celebration in the Christian calendar. A journey through the good and challenging times is part of our collective human experience. The birth

of Christ at Christmas and His death and resurrection at Easter.

At the time of writing, we will have all endured almost a year of one of the most difficult times since the second world war.

Chris Cole However, we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel with the provision of the vaccine, which hopefully will not be the light of another train coming down the tracks.

Loss of life and economic uncertainty have been and still are the consequences of this pandemic which we still have to navigate through.

I have had my first jab, but still feel very conscious that we are not through this yet and I do not want to succumb to ‘well it’s OK for me now’ because we can still transmit the virus according to some health officials even after the jab. It is important to be

wise and prudent for the sake of others.

The evidence is still being gathered about passing on the virus after being vaccinated.

However, things are looking very positive, and it is hope which is such a powerful concept during challenging times.

The hope which I believe in is important and is not just the hope of going on holiday or getting a haircut. Those are good and totally understandable, but they are not the hope that undergirds us when life really gets tough. Health and economic security are still the real issues we all wrestle with as human beings.

I am increasingly mindful of the millions of Christians around the world who do not have much hope other than their faith in God. This is the hope that provides the

foundation within the Christian community, especially across the world, where Christians are severely persecuted for their faith especially in Iran, North Korea and China.

This hope understands what Jesus told Martha at the death of her brother Lazarus.

Martha replied, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies. And everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.

Do you believe this?”

“Yes, Lord,” she answered, “I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” John 11 v 24 – 27.

The hope in the eternal gives us hope in the day to day.

Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

Plymouth sight loss group supporting locals in need Plymouth Macular Society telephone support group is continuing to help local people affected by sight loss during the pandemic.

Vispring’s Plymouth factory employs 200 people

Competition for students to design a bed for Vispring

Plymouth based luxury bed maker, Vispring, has launched a competition in partnership with Plymouth College of Art, giving interior design and styling students the opportunity to design a limited-edition bed.

The winning design will be marketed and sold in the European and Asian markets in 2022.

Founded in London in 1910, Vispring is synonymous with comfort and opulence, furnishing the suites of high-end hotels, including London’s Dorchester, 45 Park Lane and the bedrooms of the finest homes around the world. In 1971 the factory relocated from London to Plymouth, where the beds are still made by hand, by its 200 skilled craftsmen and women.

Head of communications at Vispring, Victoria Soares said: “With our workshop based in Plymouth, it was important to Vispring that we support the progression of local design talent and we are very excited to see what the Plymouth College of Art students create.

“Vispring is looking for a stand-out piece, that showcases our brand’s beautifully handmade beds, with style and imagination, while also considering the practicalities of production viability.”

Three finalists will be chosen and reviewed by Vispring and fellow Plymouth company, Lang and Potter, which creates Vispring headboards.

The winner will then be selected by a panel of expert judges, including Vispring’s senior team, alongside designer and stylist, Despina Curtis and founder and director of London based PR agency, Tomorrow PR, Neil Byrne.

Cathryn Bishop, senior lecturer and subject leader at Plymouth College of Art said: “We’re delighted to partner with Vispring on this amazing opportunity for our Interior Design and Styling students.”

“Working with real briefs from industry leaders like Vispring is what our programmes are all about at Plymouth College of Art, we want to give our students an experience, as close to being in a real design studio as possible.”

The winning designer will also be invited to attend and assist the official photography shoot and experience a tour of the Vispring workshop.

It will be holding its 50th consecutive group call on March 24 at 11.30am. The group, one of more than 400 organised by leading sight loss charity the Macular Society, is open to anyone affected by macular disease, the biggest cause of sight loss in the U.K., which currently affects around 1.5 million people.

When the pandemic first hit last year, the Society introduced a range of telephone and online support services for anyone affected by sight loss.

The Plymouth Macular Society telephone support group, which is run by local volunteers and led by Brian Heather, hold their calls at 11.30 every Wednesday morning, and family members and friends of those affected are also welcome to attend.

Brian, 85, who took on the group leader role two years ago said: “The key word for our group, and all the charity’s groups, is support. Not only do we frequently have expert guest speakers who provide the latest advice and information but we also encourage and help each other come to terms with macular disease. We share lighter moments too with talks of local interest, quizzes and marking people’s birthdays.

He added: “We have a hard core of about 15 people who regularly dial in, and who frequently say that the calls are the highlight of their week. In fact, one member has told her family not to disturb her on a Wednesday morning!

Joking aside, moving to weekly calls has enabled us to build a lovely online friendship, and provides a great base for us to grow from when we are able to meet again face to face.”

Judy Pride, Macular Society senior regional manager, said: “Brian is a really enthusiastic, committed and effective group leader. He does a fantastic job of keeping

the group going, and staying in contact with those members who are unable to dial in.”

“As the pandemic continues to have an impact, the health and wellbeing of everyone remains our priority.

However, it’s absolutely vital that everyone who needs our support continues to receive it. Although our faceto-face services were suspended last year, we are still on the end of the phone for anyone affected by sight loss, including their family and friends.”

Judy added “Our telephone support groups enable people to better understand macular disease and to help them come to terms with sight loss; exactly the way our face-toface support groups used to do.

The sessions also help to ensure that everyone is kept up to date with all the current news and information. But most importantly, they allow people with macular disease to continue to take part in social activities, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation during these difficult times.”

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK. Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk. The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces. Many people affected describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement.

There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of macular disease, affecting more than 600,000 people, usually over the age of 50.

If you would like to join the Plymouth group call, or for more information about additional support services available locally, please contact Judy on 01264 560 229/0794 737 3244 or email judy.pride@macularsociety.org For information on other services currently available from the Macular Society, please call the charity’s Advice and Information Service on 0300 3030 111 or email help@ macularsociety.org

Dial the Experts The handy guide to Plymouth trades & services

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22 April 2021

22 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Second phase of Oceansgate development complete The second phase of Plymouth City Council’s Oceansgate development, a world-class hub for marine industries, has now reached completion.

The landmark was celebrated with a virtual event, with building contractor Kier Construction ‘handing over’ the keys to the council.

The project is transforming disused Ministry of Defence land in three phases, creating a purpose-built environment with both offices and industrial units designed with the needs of marine and maritime businesses in mind.

Phase 2 gives an additional 1,350 metres squared of light industrial space in three separate buildings and 1,100 metres squared of office space. The new office building is named Nesbitt House in honour of Plymouth-born Kate Nesbitt, who became the first female member of the Royal Navy to be awarded the Military Cross for her service in Afghanistan in 2009, celebrating the site’s defence links and proximity to the Naval Base.

The newly completed phase is already over 90 per cent prelet. Tenants moving into Phase 2 include ESL Group’s Space and Defence Solutions division and City College Plymouth, which is creating a new dedicated learning environment offering university-level courses in marine and engineering subjects.

Oceansgate is the city’s Marine Enterprise Zone and sits within South Yard which is a key part of the new Plymouth and South Devon freezone. The freezone offers specific tax and relief benefits for companies based within it, incentivising employers to invest and create new jobs.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “Plymouth City Council

Nesbitt House, the new office building at Oceansgate

is incredibly proud of Oceansgate, which has fast become a thriving community of marine and maritime businesses and will be a core site in the city’s new freezone, showcasing our commitment to high tech marine innovation.

“It’s fantastic to see Phase 2 come to completion despite everything that has happened during the last 12 months. Our economic recovery plan Resurgam is now well underway and Oceansgate has an important role to play in this, safeguarding and creating new high-skilled jobs in the marine, defence and technology sectors which is crucial after such a difficult year for so many businesses.”

Phase 2 of Oceansgate is a £7.6 million project funded

by the Council and a £2.25 million grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Doug Lloyd, operations director at Kier Regional Building Western & Wales, said: “We are delighted to have handed over Oceansgate phase 2, an important project for the people of Plymouth.

“Over the duration of this project, we have worked collaboratively with Plymouth City Council and Building Plymouth to deliver this first-class new building, with technical excellence and social value at the heart of this project.

“As part of our commitment to leave lasting legacies in areas in which we build, we have worked with local supply chain partners, provided job and training opportunities as well as hosted careers events to showcase the breadth of roles available within construction.”

During the construction of Phase 2, 82 per cent of all Kier’s spend has been with local suppliers. Throughout the construction process, Kier employed 12 new apprentices, totalling 291 waged training weeks for apprentices. More than 240 hours were dedicated to employment skills activities, with 17 construction-focused careers events for the local community.

Phase 1 of Oceansgate was completed in April 2018, and is now a base for eight businesses. The next steps include work on Phase 3.1, which will see the development of a new Marine and Defence Innovation Centre.

Find out more about Oceansgate at www. oceansgateplymouth.com.

COVID-19 testing for those with NO symptoms rolled out for essential workers across city Many essential workers or those providing vital care and support for the most vulnerable people in Plymouth now have access to a rapid COVID-19 testing programme.

Up to one in three people who have coronavirus never show any symptoms but that does not mean they are not infectious.

Lateral flow devices (LFDs) are one of the tools being used to help us to detect and fight COVID-19.

These tests can allow individuals with no symptoms to check if they have the virus, when they otherwise wouldn’t know. Anyone who has a positive result should self-isolate, to make sure that they are not putting others at risk.

The rapid turnaround lateral flow tests can give results in under an hour, without the need for laboratory processing.

Over the past few weeks, Plymouth City Council has been piloting the testing programme with its own frontline staff. Now, the council has expanded its offer with a mobile unit, travelling around the city to key locations where essential workers or volunteers are based. This includes the City Business Park, Four Greens Wellbeing Hub and the Age UK Centre.

The new service aims to complement the Government’s Rapid Workplace Testing programme. It is hoped that over the weeks and months ahead even more lateral flow

testing will be available across the city.

The lateral flow testing is in addition to

the symptomatic testing - sometimes called PCR Testing - that is already available for

those displaying COVID-19 symptoms at three venues across the city.

Ruth Harrell, director of Public Health for Plymouth City Council, said: “Roughly one in three people who have the virus do not have symptoms so could be spreading the disease without knowing it.

“Broadening testing to identify those showing no symptoms will mean finding positive cases more quickly, enable people to take immediate action and self-isolate and ultimately break chains of transmission.

“We will be expanding up our testing over the weeks ahead as more and more people will want to access the service when lockdown restrictions begin to ease.”

If you have COVID-19 symptoms and need a test Currently anyone who does have one of the main symptoms of a high temperature, new cough or loss of taste or smell must selfisolate immediately and book a test.

Testing is available by appointment at the drive-in test site at the former Seaton Barracks site off William Prance Road or either of the walk-through test sites at Marjon and the Guildhall, or via a home test kit. All the testing sites in Plymouth are operating seven days a week 8am to 8pm, so anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should book a test by calling 119 or by visiting the NHS website atwww.gov.uk/getcoronavirus-test

Financial help for low-income families told to self-isolate

Plymouth City Council is once again stepping in to help residents who need financial support while self-isolating.

It is to extend its discretionary Test and Trace Support Scheme until the end of March and will run alongside the national scheme which is designed to support low income households who need to isolate.

Since the launch of both the main and the discretionary scheme a total of 554 households have received financial support while they self-isolate.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing and Cooperative Development, said: “The infection rates are going down - which is great news - but we all know how

quickly they can go back up and with more testing due to come, any one of us could be told to self-isolate. Nobody should be struggling to make ends meet because they are doing the right thing, which is why we are stepping in to bridge a gap left by the Government.”

The council has so far received £120,500 for the discretionary scheme but that sum and more has already been spent supporting families.

At the moment no further funding has come from Government. Councillor Penberthy added: “Our overriding objective must be to protect our communities and look after the most vulnerable. If we had to end the scheme those

who are financially vulnerable and unable to look after themselves, or their families may return to work putting others at risk of infection. We cannot allow that to happen.

“We have written again to the Government asking them to review their funding. The allocation did not take account of the infection rate at the time, the city’s demographics and nature of employment, where many are in low paid jobs and cannot work from home.”

An emergency decision is being signed to allocate up to £17,000 to meet additional demand and to set a further £50,000 from the Test & Trace Support Grant should the forecasted demands increase.

USEFUL It’s fun and games galore - literally! NUMBERS April 2021

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23

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard 999 or 112 Police general enquiries 101 Derriford Hospital 01752 202082 Electricity, Western Power Distribution 0800 678 3105 Gas, Wales & West Utilities 0800 111999 Water, South West Water 0344 3462020 Environment Agency (Emergency) 0800 807060 RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Helplines

With lockdown restrictions easing, a Devonport-based group is looking forward to brightening up local events again with a selection of brilliant games.

The group, called Games Galore, provide the games to local clubs and community groups for their events, helping to keep all ages happy, laughing, entertained and engaged.

Games Galore is a small local group which makes large traditional wooden games from around the world and are happy to take them, totally free of charge, to any local clubs or community groups for a fundraising or social event.

All they need is space - indoor or outdoor - and they can have as many games as they can fit in. Games Galore have a selection of around 30 table top games to choose from that are suitable for the whole family.

One of the parents at a recent event said: “It’s good to see my children enjoying these

old-fashioned games instead of computer games and realising they are even more fun.”

The games are great icebreakers for people who don’t know each other well and perfect for lifelong friends. The Games Galore team will deliver, set up the games and will then stay to supervise and show participants how to play.

Devonport resident, Rob Preston came up with the idea for Games Galore in 2019 after being inspired by seeing something similar in a town square in France.

Rob said that he started by making a few large games and then tested them out at a games night for the local Plymouth Petanque Club at the Devonport Live Cafe. He was so encouraged by everyone’s involvement and enjoyment that he made more games from small table games to some as large as eight feet long.

Wherever possible Rob makes the games from recycled or repurposed timber.

Other retired folk became interested and

Rob gathered a small team of like-minded friends who love to play games and they started taking the games to other clubs and events. Sandie, one of the helpers and a retired SEN teacher, said: “It is so rewarding to see young and old playing the games together as a family. I always like to ask which one is their favourite.”

Rob said: “We could always do with a few more volunteers to help take the games out to the community so if playing games and meeting new people is your thing do please get in touch.”

He also appealed for help with creating a website for the group.

“As soon as lockdown restrictions are lifted and people can meet in groups again, the Games Galore team look forward to hosting your event. If you want to see some of these games in action check out our video on YouTube...just search for Games Galore 2019.”

For further information contact Rob on 07772 730098.

New family hubs to transform support for parents and children Plans to transform support for local families with children of all ages, are one step closer.

Last year, Plymouth City Council asked for views on proposals to expand children’s centres, and bring other family support services closer together, to transform the way that local services are delivered through a network of family hubs.

At a Cabinet Meeting in March, it was agreed that a new Family Hubs Innovative Partnership will be created. It will be made up of local organisations who will work together to support children and their wider families.

It will bring services together, for example, family and parenting support, young carers services, and youth work, across voluntary

and community services and those provided by the council. The Partnership will make sure that the voices and views of children, young people and families is at the heart of the design of future services.

The Hubs aim to not only help keep children and young people safe and protected, but they will also have a focus on prevention and early intervention.

The Hubs will work with local families, providing support early to try prevent problems getting worse, and avoid families needing more formal intervention from statutory services such as children’s social care.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People for Plymouth City Council, said: “This pandemic has caused

unparalleled challenges for many people in Plymouth, but it has been particularly difficult for many vulnerable families who need the most support.

“Our new Family Hub partnership model we are developing focuses our resources in the areas of most need and should, for many, provide a more effective service because we’ll be working far more closely across our services and with partners to provide integrated support in one place. It will transform the way we provide support to local families.”

Work will now begin on the of launch an innovation partnership to work with the council and other partners in the city, starting with design of the way the Hubs will support families from 2022 onwards.

Age UK Plymouth 01752 256020 Adoption UK 0844 848 7900 Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 088 Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Childline 0800 1111 Christians Against Poverty (Debt Advice) 0800 328 0006 Citizens Advice 0300 3309 043 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Action 01752 651800 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Drug Addicts Anonymous: Helpline 07818260811 Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre 01752 203670 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 National Christian Helpline 0300 111 0101 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Osteoporosis Support Group 075958 500314 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 116 123 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 Stop Hate Crime 24/7 Helpline 0800 138 1625 Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 West Country Landlords Assn 01752 242980

Travel RAC Green Flag Rail Travel, national enquiries Plymouth Citybus National Express Coaches Brittany Ferries Cremyll Ferry Torpoint Ferry Tourist Information Passport Office, National Helpline

08000 828282 0800 400600 08457 484950 01752 662271 08717 818181 08705 360360 01752 822105 01752 812233 01752 266030 0870 5210410

Entertainment Theatre Royal 01752 267222 Barbican Theatre 01752 267131 Devonport Playhouse 01752 606507 Plymouth Athenaeum Theatre 01752 266079 Plymouth Pavilions 01752 936363 Plymouth Pavilions Ticket Store 03337 727727 Cineworld 03303 33444 Vue Cinema 0345 308 4620 Tourist Information 01752 306330 National Trust Saltram 01752 333500 Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery 01752 304774 Plymouth Arts Centre 01752 206114

Leisure

Your Online News, Information and What’s On Service

Follow us at Facebook.com/PlymptonPodcast for regular stories, pictures and videos of life in Plympton and surrounding areas To hear our audio podcasts and to find other useful community information go to:

www.localwhatson.info

Tel: 07752 698504 E: plymptonpodcast@gmail.com

• Mobile Repair Service • Spares for PVC/Aluminium • Doors & Windows / Handles & Hinges • Wide Range Of Locks & Mechanisms • Garage Door Repairs / Patio Door Wheels • Free Estimates & No Call-Out Charge • Double Glazed Sealed units

Visit our Shop For Trade & DIY

Tel: 01752 221156

www.thedoordoctor.co.uk

30 Percy Terrace, Alexandra Rd, Lipson Vale PL4 7HG

Plymouth Life Centre 01752 606900 Brickfields Recreation Ground 01752 563320 Manadon Football Dev’ment Centre 01752 201918 Plympton Swimming Pool 0870 300 0020 Plymouth Pavilions 0845 146 1460 Megabowl, Coxside 0871 5501010 Tourist Information 01752 306330 The Beckly Centre, Plymstock 01752 484433

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Chronicle, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623

Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

24 April 2021

24 April 2021

@PlymChronicle

Memories of the Plymouth Blitz come flooding back for Charlie

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News of plans to mark the 80th anniversary of the Plymouth Blitz in 2021 with a series of special events led 95-year-old Charlie Trevethan to contact the Chronicle about his wartime memories.

homes in Plympton and Plymstock

Charlie, who was born in December 1925, lived with his parents, brother and two sisters in Rosedown Avenue, North Prospect when the Second World War broke out.

He has vivid memories of the bombing raids which wreaked death and destruction across the city in March and April 1941.

“During one of the raids me, my mum, and my brother and sisters were in our Anderson shelter in our garden when a bomb was dropped between two Anderson shelters in one of our neighbour’s front gardens killing everyone - including one of my friends.

“Debris from the bomb blast and parts of the shelter fell on to the roof of our shelter and I remember putting my hands up to stop our shelter from collapsing.”

Charlie said that his father, also called Charles, signed up as a Special Constable during the war and would be called out to attend the sites of bombings.

“That night he had gone to the workhouse in Wolseley Road where the police were stationed.

He was one of only two constables on duty along with the sergeant. The sergeant had been told that a bomb had hit a house in Rosedown Avenue - and he knew that was where we lived.

“He told the other constable to attend - but my dad overheard the sergeant and said ‘My family is up there. I’m going up there.’

“By the time he got to Rosedown the raid was over, but on the way he heard someone say that all the Trevethans had been killed. I don’t know what he must have thought at the time but luckily it wasn’t us.”

Charlie and the rest of the family had to be rehoused in nearby Laurel Road, North Prospect - only for a land mine to be dropped close by, which meant they all had to move again, this time to Dingle Road.

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Charlie Trevethan with his Argyle shirt and birthday card

He remembers visiting the city centre and seeing the devastation caused during the dozens of bombing raids which left over 1,100 civilians dead and nearly 4,500 injured. He recalls the deadly attack which led to a direct hit on a communal air raid shelter in Portland Square killing 76 people.

“It was a horrifying time, but as youngsters we just got used to all the bombings. I would often go out with my friends the day after a raid and collect shrapnel from the streets,” he added.

Charlie attended North Prospect School and having passed his 11 plus went to Devonport High School for Boys - but his education was curtailed by the war.

In June 1944 he was called up and served in the Devonshires

for four years, ending up in India fighting the Japanese.

Returning to Plymouth he met his wife Violet when they were both working at a local laundry company. “It was love at first sight,” said Charlie. They married in 1950 and eventually settled in Southway, where Charlie has lived for the past 63 years.

They had a daughter Jill, who became a teacher, but sadly lost a son at 10 weeks with cystic fibrosis.

He is extremely proud of his daughter and his grandchildren, Amy and Miles. Amy, who studied at the University of Oxford, was elected as a councillor in Barnet when she was just 21 and at 22 stood as a Labour candidate in the 2015 General Election, increasing the party’s vote from 12,000 to 18,000 in the Tory

stronghold of Chipping Barnet.

Miles studied at Cambridge University.

Charlie is looking forward to seeing them all again when lockdown restrictions are lifted completely.

Sadly, Charlie’s wife passed away in 2019 after a long illness.

They were together for over 70 years and married for 68 years.

Like Charlie she had also grown up in North Prospect.

Charlie spent 35 years working for Farley’s Rusks, taking early reitrement at 60. A keen sportsman he played cricket for Farley’s as a fast bowler - right up to the age of 60.

The other love of Charlie’s life is Plymouth Argyle. He attended his first match at Home Park in 1931 - and has followed the club for 90 years. It may make him Argyle’s longest-serving supporter - unless someone else knows differently!

He remembers seeing the legendary Jack Leslie play as well as larger than life figures Jumbo Chisholm and Harry Cann. “We were allowed to sit on the grass at the side of the Milehouse goal (now Devonport End) and I can remember Harry Cann so vividly,” said Charlie.

Charlie was also one of 43,596 fans who saw the Second Division match against Aston Villa in 1936. It was Argyle’s biggest-ever crowd.

Plymouth Argyle marked his loyal support on his 95th birthday presenting him with his own personalised shirt and a birthday card signed by all the first team squad.

Charlie’s story was featured in The Pilgrim - Argyle’s match day programme - as part of the Argyle Community Trust’s Tackling Loneliness Together initiative.

A member of the Argyle Community Trust team visits Charlie on a regular basis to check that he is well and presented him with a hamper at Christmas.

Charlie said: “I’m so lucky...I live in my own home and have wonderful neighbours who can’t do enough for me.”

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The Plympton and Plymstock Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Woodford, Plympton St Mary and St Maurice, Chaddlewood, Langage, Elburton, Plymstock, Hooe, Turnchapel, Staddiscombe, Oreston, Pomphlett and Billacombe.

The May edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Plympton and Plymstock will be published on April 9 with a copy deadline of March 29. The Plympton and Plymstock edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

If you have an event listing, interesting story or news item you think would be suitable for the Chronicle, please send an email to info@ cornerstonevision.com.

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Chronicle Plymouth

April 2021

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

95-year-old Charlie Trevethan from Southway has been sharing his memories of the Plymouth Blitz See page 24

CONNECT WITH US @PlymChroniclePP

@PlymChroniclePP If you would like to submit a story, email info@cornerstonevision.com or if you would like to find out more information on the Plymouth Chronicle or our other publications, please visit www.cornerstonevision.com

Plympton & Plymstock

Derriford consultant Professor Matthew Cramp has won an Excellence Award for his work See page 8

ALSO INSIDE:

• Dial the Experts • Local news and views

• Cross Rhythms Experience • Useful numbers

Enter the dragon!

Image credit Carl Robertshaw

A spectacular dragon will hatch in Plymouth City Centre this summer, and grow to the size of a double-decker bus. The Hatchling is a ground-breaking outdoor theatrical performance that will unfold over a weekend of events in August and reaches an extraordinary finale on The Hoe - see story on page 4

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