Plymouth Chronicle Plympton & Plymstock December 2018

Chronicle Plymouth

December 2018

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Dartmoor Zoo announces appointment of new curator See page 3

ALSO INSIDE: • Out and About • Community Job • Community Shop Directory • Cross Rhythms • Dial the Experts Experience

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Dozens of Santas will be taking to the water at the Mount Batten Centre to raise funds for local charities • Full story and more pictures on page 10

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2 December 2018

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Sherford Life Companies line up as key site at What is the best possible Christmas gift for 2018? Are you wondering that too?

Frustrated with how out-of-touch I was, I decided to do a web search for the answer!

So here are the top picks for toys and games this Christmas: a set of plastic dinosaurs that you can attach to your fingers, a line of plush soft toys designed to look like monsters, and a game called Don’t Step In It in which blindfolded participants have to avoid stepping in… well, why don’t

By Revd Tom Brassil you look it up and see?

Perhaps you look at that list and think, “Is this all there is to Christmas?” Maybe you are of the generous opinion that, at Christmas, ‘it is more blessed to give than to receive’.

If so, let me suggest two possible options. The first is a lovely event I have attended for the last few years in Wembury Village Hall early in December.

It’s a Christmas get-together with plenty of carol-singing and wonderful performances by children from the local school.

A particular highlight is a visit from the great bearded gift-giver himself. Yet he comes not with a full sack but an empty one, and attendees are encouraged to bring a wrapped gift to put in his sack to take down to the Shekinah Mission.

The second option is a similar idea I saw the other day on social media: the reverse advent calendar.

You start with an empty box and each day of December, rather than taking out a chocolate treat you put in a food item. At the end you can donate the whole box to a local food bank. Isn’t that a great idea?

When we get beneath the glittery surface, we find that Christmas really is all about giving. Not us giving to one another, but God giving to us.

In fact, when we see what he gives us, we get the ultimate answer to the question I started with.

We find not just the best Christmas gift of 2018 but the best Christmas gift of any year! The gift? God himself!

When God’s messenger tells a young lady she is going to have a special child, she is told that ‘they will call him Immanuel (which means, ‘God with us’).’

(Matthew 1:23, the Bible).

In other words, God was moving into the neighbourhood, stepping into the world he had created, coming to be with us. And those who began to follow him realised that in doing so they had discovered true and full life.

So, are you ready to get into the Christmas spirit? Want to find out more about why that baby in the manger really is the best ever Christmas gift?

Sherford Community Church will be going through the Nativity story in an accessible and fun way on Sunday December 23 at 10am, and we’ll also be meeting at 10am on Christmas morning.

If you’re in the area, come along for some Christmas cheer!

If you have any questions about Sherford Life, or if you would like to know more about the gift at the heart of Christmas, please contact me at tom@ sherfordchurch.net

Langage is handed over to council The keys to an important site at Plymouth’s newest business park have been handed over.

The next phase of Hearder Court at Langage is now ready for business and was handed over to the council following a 10-month building project.

The 2,830 square metres speculative scheme was being handed over by Mark Wildman, managing director of Ryearch to Council Leader Tudor Evans.

Six units are available to let ranging in size from 193 square metres to 1,015 square metres. The scheme has been designed flexibly to attract a variety of companies both small and large. Subject to availability the units also have the potential to be combined creating larger space possibilities for interested companies.

Coun Evans said: “This is why we invest in developments such as this – even before the building is complete we have taken a number of serious enquiries about renting the units – which we hope to be in a position to confirm very soon.

“One of our pledges is to build more factories and work spaces. We invested around £3 million to create this wonderful workspace, which could facilitate up to 80 jobs as well as earn a long term steady income for the Council.

The quality and specification is superb and will allow businesses a real opportunity to occupy some first class facilities.

“Plymouth has the highest concentration of manufacturing employment of any city south of the Midlands and we need the space with up-todate facilities to attract high end companies.”

The new, highly specified and sustainable workspace scheme was named in honour of Plymouth scientist Jonathan Nash Hearder, an electrical engineer, inventor and educator who developed the induction coil and was an advisor on the first Atlantic cable.

The units all have flexible office space that can be easily extended vertically or horizontally to suit end users specific requirements. The site is fully secure with perimeter fencing, generous service yard areas, dedicated parking, waste recycling zones and electrically operated loading doors.

The new buildings also have energy saving features such as solar photovoltaic systems, efficient heating systems in the offices, LED lighting and increased levels of insulation, which when combined, should minimise carbon emissions and reduce running costs for occupiers.

The scheme has been awarded an EPC rating of A, demonstrating the quality and sustainable

Mark Wildman of Ryearch hands over the keys of Hearder Court to Council Leader Tudor Evans

ethos of the build. This should be an attractive feature to potential occupiers.

Mark Wildman, added: “We are delighted to have delivered this prestigious project for Plymouth City Council.

“It is a high quality building incorporating many modern build techniques and sustainable features

and will undoubtedly be a superb place of work.

“This flagship project confirms the growing vibrancy and development of Plymouth and we are proud to be actively participating in the growth of the city.”

The units are now available to let. For more information visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/langage_ beechwood_way.pdf or call Plymouth City Council on 01752 304161.

Government’s new loneliness strategy is welcomed

The British Red Cross in Plymouth has welcomed the publication of the Government’s loneliness strategy for England which highlights the growing problem of loneliness and maps out how people can reconnect with their communities.

One of the key recommendations in the strategy is the expansion of ‘social prescribing’ – something the British Red Cross Community Connector scheme in Plymouth, funded through a partnership with the Co-op, is doing.

Since July this year the British Red Cross have worked with approximately 80 people locally on a one to one basis or signposted them to more specific organisations.

During research done prior to the launch of the scheme in Plymouth it was identified that Plympton and Devonport are specific areas in the city where loneliness is an issue. The scheme provides free, one-to-one help over 12 weeks to people experiencing loneliness and social isolation.

Trained volunteers and staff talk to people about their interests and link them with activities in their local area to help them get out and make new friends, keeping loneliness at bay. People can sign themselves up for help, or be referred through a GP, social worker or friend or family member – and the help is open to anyone over the age of 18.

Richard Lynch, Community Connector for Plymouth, said: “Our research has shown that one in five people say they always or often feel lonely so I am sure there are people in the city who are currently feeling alone or isolated from their community and we would like to help.

“It could be someone who has been bereaved, recently become a mum at a young age or is experiencing a long term health condition, meaning it’s harder for them to get out and about.

“We can help people identify what they would like to do to reconnect with their communities and provide the practical and emotional support to

make small steps towards it.

“If anyone reading this is feeling lonely or knows someone who may be – please get in touch, we are here to help.”

The Connecting Communities scheme is funded through the British Red Cross partnership with the Co-op and was set up in 2015 to tackle loneliness across the UK. The British Red Cross has also been working closely with the government to feed in recommendations to the loneliness strategy and is continuing to call for ‘loneliness checks’ to be made during medical appointments in the same way a GP might ask about other lifestyle factors such as smoking or exercise.If you’re feeling isolated and alone and don’t know where to turn to for help, contact the Red Cross Plymouth Connecting Communities service on connectplymouth@redcross.org. uk or visit redcross.org.uk/lonely. There is a longer audio interview with Richard Lynch online in the December edition of the Plympton Podcast.

December 2018 3

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Dartmoor Zoo welcomes new curator

Starbucks plan for drive-thru coffee shop at Coypool Park

Plans for a drive-through Starbucks Coffee Shop at Coypool Retail Park have been submitted to Plymouth City Council.

Tom Lowry has joined Dartmoor Zoo as curator, to steer the charity’s conservation and education work

Family attraction, Dartmoor Zoo, has welcomed new curator, Tom Lowry, to lead the future development of the charity’s conservation activity and animal collection with the creation of a strategy to guide Dartmoor Zoo’s animal antics, known as a collection plan.

As Tom puts the new collection plan into action in the coming months and years, visitors can expect to see changes across the Zoo as new animal species are introduced; enclosures are revamped; and areas of the park are made more accessible to the public.

Commenting on his plans for Dartmoor Zoo, Tom said: “As curator, my job is to make sure that our keepers have everything they need to deliver the best possible care to the animals at Dartmoor Zoo, as well as supporting the charity’s conservation and education goals.

“Dartmoor Zoo is much more than a visitor attraction, it is a wonderful resource for the

public to learn about animal behaviour and the value of conservation in the modern world. The Zoo has also developed a brilliant education programme that offers hands-on training for students while inspiring the next generation of school learners.

“The next step in Dartmoor Zoo’s evolution is to take our conservation work up a gear, including participating in international breeding programmes. As a conservation charity, our responsibility is to concentrate on the species that most need our help, and those which support people to learn either through direct contact or behavioural research.

“In the long-term, we are aiming to be involved in the breeding programme for critically endangered Amur leopards and to create a broader picture of the global diversity of animal life in our big geopraphical exhibits. The team at Dartmoor Zoo is incredibly passionate about what they do and the creatures in their care - from the largest mammals down to the tiniest creepy

crawlies - and I’m thrilled to be working with them to deliver some great changes.”

A native Bristolian, Tom began his conservation career with Chester Zoo, spending several years at Flamingo Land and ZSL London Zoo, before joining Dartmoor Zoo from Golders Hill Park Zoo. Tom brings with him a wealth of experience in animal behaviour, management and collection planning that will underpin Dartmoor Zoo’s development.

Dartmoor Zoo was established in 2007 when Benjamin Mee and his family bought an ailing zoo. Since then Ben, his family and team have built the Zoo into the popular tourist attraction it is today.

Ben wrote a book about his experience and in 2011 it was made into the Hollywood Film ‘We Bought a Zoo’ starring Matt Damon.

In 2014 the Zoo became a charity, of which Ben is CEO. Today the Zoo is heavily involved in research, conservation and education projects to promote the welfare of animals and to enrich both the lives of humans and animals.

Homes England takes first steps in bid to redevelop old clayworks site Up to 600 new homes could be built at Coypool by 2030, documents lodged with Plymouth City Council reveal.

Homes England, which has acquired the old China Clay site at Coypool hopes to start the work by 2021.

As a fist step in the process it has lodged an application for a scoping opinion for the proposed development of 600 residential units, a community hub, vehicular access and hard and soft landscaping, including sustainable drainage systems.

Derelict china clay site...600 homes to be built?

The site has been derelict since 2008 and is earmarked in the Plymouth Joint Local Plan as an Although this is not yet a full and detailed existing brownfield site suitable for housing planning application, one quick off the mark development. resident was the first member of the public

to lodge a formal reply to the application.

Philip Heffernan who lives in Lynwood Avenue is concerned over access routes to the site, the ability of the local sewage treatment works to cope with waste from 600 new homes as well as the 5,000 coming on line from Sherford. He also queries how many of the new homes will be affordable for first time buyers.

Full details of the application and supporting documents can be seen on the planning section of the Plymouth City Council website under planning reference number 18/01766/

ERS105.

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

If approved, it is estimated that the new development will create up to 20 jobs. The single storey coffee shop will be located on part of the car park serving the now closed B & Q store and will require the removal of more than 20 car parking spaces.

The coffee shop will have a footprint of nearly 170 square metres - equivalent to approximately 1670 square feet.

The applicants Amsric argue that the proposed development will result in the efficient re-use of a brownfield site and make a positive contribution to the visual appearance of the retail park.

Proposed opening hours will be 5.30am to 10pm weekdays and 6am to 10pm on Sundays.

The planning application follows detailed pre-application discussions with Plymouth City Council planners to satisfy ecological, environmental and traffic issues.

Council confirm traffic loophole to be plugged

An unintended loophole in a Plympton Traffic Order which has caused additional delays along Plymouth Road is to be plugged after it was drawn to the attention of Plymouth City Council by the Plympton Podcast.

Angry residents contacted the Plympton Podcast complaining that cars and taxis were using the 7.5t diversion up Linketty Lane thus triggering extra red light sequences to the temporary traffic lights at the junction with Plymouth Road near Skewbridge.

When it was looked into it emerged that while these car and taxi drivers were acting in an inconsiderate manner their use of the diversion was not actually specifically prohibited.

The diversion was introduced in the The City of Plymouth (Cot Hill) (Temporary Prohibition of Driving and Parking) Order 2018. The intention of this Order was to provide a means of exit from the area for vehicles weighing 7.5 tons and above after a weight restriction was introduced on the bridge over the railway at Cot Hill.

However this Order placed no formal restriction on the type of vehicle which could use the Linketty Lane diversion.

Now though the council has said it will act to address this unintended anomaly.

A Plymouth City Council spokesperson said: “The temporary measures on Linketty Lane were designed to provide an alternative route for HGVs while weight restrictions are in place on the Cot Hill rail bridge.

“Unfortunately other vehicles have also been using this route, causing unnecessary delays on Plymouth Road, so we are now looking to implement a formal ‘authorised vehicles only’ restriction that will be enforced 24/7.”

Story courtesy of www.PlymptonPodcast. org.uk

4 December 2018

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

Cards for Good Causes Until Dec 18 Sale of charity Christmas cards in the Foyer, Plymouth Guildhall. Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

Charities receive at least 70p in every £1 from their card sales.

Plympton Fuchsia and Geranium Group Nov 13 In the Main Hall at Harewood House, Plympton.

7.30pm start, lasts a couple hours. Guests are always made most welcome and there is also a raffle. Guest speaker is Nigel Pascoe, a distinguished plantsman and frequent panellist on the BBC Garden Line, who will be giving a talk about horticultural matters generally between 7.30 and 8.30pm. Break for refreshments and the annual meeting will then follow at 8.45pm This is generally quite a short meeting.

South West Asbestos Support and Awareness Group Nov 15 Meeting at The Future Inn, SWASAG is a new charity that has been set up in the South West of England to provide help and support to anyone who is suffering with any asbestos related disease including mesothelioma.

Christmas Festival Craft and Food Fair Nov 16 to 18 Saltram House The very best in local crafts and food produce return to Saltram again this winter with Christmas gift ideas for every taste and budget. Soak up the atmosphere among the stalls with a warm glass of mulled wine and get lots ticked off your Christmas shopping list.

Unusual gifts, hand-crafted decorations, hot food and even the Christmas turkey.

Table Top Craft Sale Nov 17 Kings Tamerton Community Centre 10am to 2pm.

Refreshments available. Tables cost £5 to book a table ring 07955 962213.

Christmas Fayre Nov 17 St Budeaux Parish Church Community Hall, The Green, Crownhill Road PL5 2HN from 12 noon to 3pm.

There will be several tables selling goods, including childrens toys, cards, gifts, handbags, jams, jewellery, beads, bric a brac, etc. Refreshments will be available.

There are still a limited number of tables to hire at £5 to book, contact 01752 362161.

Christmas Craft & Gift Fayre Nov 18 Boringdon Park Golf Club in aid of Jeremiah’s Journey.

Free entry. The event will host an array of craft and gift ideas for the whole family with music & song from the Fabulous La La Choirs and more surprises to be announced.

Not to be missed Drake Circus Christmas Grotto Nov 17 to Dec 24 The magic of Christmas is alive at Drake Circus with Santa’s Smeaton’s Tower-style grotto and his team of elves. Let your child’s wish come early this Christmas by taking them to visit Santa in his magical grotto and receive a special gift from him and his helpers. Pre-booking is available on the Drake Circus website.

Illuminate Nov 22 to 25 The incredible light-based festival, Illuminate, returns to Plymouth’s historic Royal William Yard.

The festival offers an immersive experience, with projections and light installations set out across the Yard, live performances and interactive opportunities. New for this year is the use of water screen technology, as artists experiment with projecting onto the sea as well as land. Illuminate is free to attend and runs for four days, an increase from three last year. Families are welcome and there are plenty of interactive and playful workshops for everyone to get involved in, both during and in the lead-up to the festival.

Barbican Lights Switch On Nov 25 The Barbican and Sutton Harbour Christmas celebrations begin to take place as the lights are switched on for the Barbican and Sutton Harbour at the end of November.

Wonder Nights Nov 29 to Jan 6 Mount Edgcumbe For the first time ever Mount Edgcumbe will be illuminating the historic formal gardens as part of an all new after dark Christmas adventure. Enter a wondrous world of sensational sights around every corner. Discover enchanting lands under the stars and glorious gardens illuminated with gleaming delight. No end of festive merriment will ensure that Wonder Nights is one experience you really shouldn’t miss this festive season.

Penguins Follow the Lego Brick Trail Dec 3 to Jan 3 The all new Christmas trail arriving in Plymouth will see 20 LEGO brick penguins hidden in shops throughout the city centre. See if you can find all 20 – there are 19 Rockhoppers and one extra special Emperor to discover! Trail maps can be collected from participating retailers and libraries, or downloaded from the Visit Plymouth website. Whilst you’re hunting for the penguins make sure you don’t miss the LEGO brick Santa Express at the Old Town Street entrance of Drake Circus!

Plymouth Christmas Market Nov 29 to Dec 16 The city centre Piazza will be transformed as the Christmas Market sets out more than 50 beautiful log cabin style trading stalls. Pick up some individual

Native Makers Winter Market Dec 8 and 9 Ocean Studios, Royal William Yard Native Makers are returning with their two day festive makers market. With the return of Native Cubs Crafts, delicious snacks, fun and free activities,

Thanksgiving Day Nov 22 The Barbican An annual ceremony to mark Thanksgiving Day is held on the Barbican usually near the historic Mayflower Steps from where the Pilgrim Fathers first set sail aboard the Mayflower ship to settle in America, back in 1620.

of a festival of festive trees throughout the weekend and Festive Fayre stalls on Saturday featuring New to you Boutique, preserves, cakes, books re-cycled gifts, crafts, raffle, quizzes and games. Morning coffee, lunches, afternoon teas each day. Light musical entertainment - programme at the door. Join the festive spirit and view the plans for the Big Build.

Christmas Fair Nov 23 and 24 Stoke Damerel Church 11am to 3.30pm. Tables available on Friday November 23 at £10. Tables on Saturday at £20. Both days £25. Contact Marilyn and team at Stoke Damerel on 07890 165524 or e-mail marilyngoldsbrough@hotmail.com

Carers Rights Day Nov 30 Drake Room, Lower Guildhall, Guildhall Square, PL1 2BJ. 11am to 3pm. Free Know Your Rights event.

A great way to get a host of carers information including legal, advocacy, mental health and benefits advice. Free therapy taster sessions available throughout the day.

Step into Christmas Christmas Fair Nov 24 Held at the William Sutton Hall, Shelley Way, St Budeaux, from 11am. The Christmas Fair will include stalls selling gifts, cards, cakes, bric-a-brac, and more.

Carols will be sung and a festive visit from Santa for children of all ages will be a feature at the fair. Free.

Festive Forest Fayre Weekend Nov 24 and 25 Trinity United Reformed Church in aid of the Big Build Project from 10am to 4pm including Sunday service from 10.30am - 11.30am. With the inclusion

and unique Christmas gifts. Over 50 wooden cabins, festooned with fairy lights, will house traders from the South West and beyond, selling everything from sweet treats to handmade jewellery and even Christmas trees! Warm up with a drink from the Bavarian Bar or tuck into some delicious festive food from one of the many street food stands on offer.

There will be live music from Thursday to Sunday each week of the market featuring acts such as Swingology and Ocean City Sounds.

In the Moon of Winter Dec 1 Phoenix Chorale presents In the Moon of Winter at St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square from 7.30pm.

Come and enjoy a wonderful evening of winter music with Phoenix Chorale, featuring John Rutter’s Magnificat and a selection of contemporary carols from composers across the globe, under the direction of Marcus Alleyne, with accompanist Mark Smith and soprano Ann Sutcliffe, including performances from Woodford Primary School and Phoenix Juniors. The programme includes both a UK premier and a South

West premier performance. Mulled wine and mince pies available in the interval, as well as a Christmas hamper raffle. Tickets are £10 in advance, £12 on the door, children under 16 go free. Find out more at www. plymouthphoenixchorale.org Christmas Fayre Dec 2 Crowne Plaza Hotel Come and see lots of fabulous crafts and gift stalls, with Santa giving each child a free Christmas gift. Look forward to face painting, glitter tattoos, a magician, princesses, raffles, mince pies, cream teas and refreshments with more to be announced soon!

Table Top Sale and Coffee Morning Dec 8 St Budeaux Methodist Church, Victoria Road. 1pm to 5.30pm. £7 per table. Free entry with a small donation for epilepsy and autism charities.

Christmas Lunch Dec 14 The Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth. Hosted by the Plymouth Ladies Charity Club. A Christmas themed two course luncheon with welcome drink. Tickets £35 per person. Tickets will be available to purchase via the website PLCC.org.uk soon.

over 60 local and emerging makers, plus plenty of Christmas sparkle, there’s no reason not to pop by!

Native Makers is a platform for creative people in Devon, curating quality makers markets to support artisan craft in the South West.

Christmas Fayre Dec 8 - 9 Mount Edgcumbe Back for its fourteenth year, and still fabulous!

Featuring inspirational cookery demonstrations from leading West Country chefs, local produce of every culinary delight, lots of entertainment and Christmas carolling as well as a visit from Santa! If you’re looking for a special Christmas gift, there will be a huge variety of crafts and gifts available.

Santa Fun Run Dec 9 Hundreds of Santas are set to run through the city Centre. Go along to watch the spectacle at 11am or sign up to take part. The main route is 4km with a mini route for children of 2km. Both start at Drake Circus and finish at Frankfort Gate, just by Plymouth Market. All entrants will receive a free Santa suit to keep and money raised will support Hannahs, Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah. Find out more at www.plymouthsantarun.co.uk

Pantomime: Turkey Trouble Dec 15 Held at the William Sutton Hall, Shelley Way, St Budeaux at 2pm and 6pm. Turkey Trouble is a traditional fun filled family pantomime with lots of laughs and audience participation. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for children under 14 years old.

Vegan Christmas Market Dec 16 Clipper Inn, Union Street. 11am - 4pm. The community market space is transformed by Nudge Community into a perfect cruelty free Christmas market. Not a vegan? Not a problem! Plymouth’s newest Christmas Market will have a range of food and other Christmas ideas that are cruelty free, vegan, accidentally vegan or plant based. You don’t have to be vegan to enjoy it!

NYE Bubblicious Dec 31 The Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park Celebrate New Year’s Eve on a different time zone!

The clock will be re-set and we will count down to ‘midnight!’ For under 5s we will celebrate with Papua New Guinea and for the over 5s we will raise a glass with Thailand. Adults can enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly. For children there’s free glow sticks, UV face painting and an arts and craft chill-out area. Suitable for under 5s and their big people! Book tickets at: soapboxtheatre.org.uk

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Charity ball planned A charity ball is being held at Boringdon Park Golf Club in November to raise funds for two local causes.

The ball is being organised by the team at Skin Deep Hair Salon in Plympton and money raised will go to Pregnancy Crisis Care and Ava’s Fund.

Both charities help raise awareness and care for people in the aftermath of pregnancy, baby and infant loss.

In June 2017 one of the stylists and her partner from the Skin Deep salon suffered the tragic loss of their baby who was born sleeping. She wanted to give something back to help others and the team at Skin Deep wanted to help in this cause.

Around 300 people will be attending the ball and there will be an auction and raffle on the night. Auction items include signed gloves from former England goalkeeper Joe Hart and champion boxer Carl Froch.

For more information contact Nicola Wilson at Skin Deep Hair on 01752 344258.

Christmas concert Plymouth Area Police Choir have announced details of their grand Christmas Concert. It will be held on Friday December 14 at Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth, starting at 7.30pm.

The choir will again be supported by the young people of Montpelier School with the added attraction of their Legacy Choir. Tickets from Rob Fowler 01752 339788.

The choir will also be performing at Ridgeway Methodist Church in Plympton on December 4 at 7.30pm with a concert in aid of general funds.

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All local businesses, voluntary groups, and individuals organisations and groups are invited to post their job vacancies in our Community Job Shop feature.

This must be for part-time and voluntary jobs only and should contain no more than 50 words, including contact details. All you have to do is send the details via e-mail to info@cornerstonevision.com Deadline for each issue is the 10th of the month prior.

BOOK TROLLEY ROUNDS Royal Voluntary Library Service Derriford Hospital needs help for the book trolley ward rounds weekdays between 10 am - 12 noon. If you are interested in the service and can spare the time, please contact Pat Hamilton on Thursdays 9.30 am - 3.30 pm on 01752 430880 for further information.

SUPPORT WORKER The Candle Trust are looking for a support worker who understands the needs of people with autism, works in a person centred manner, can engage positively with service users, can undertake personal care, can be flexible with their shifts and has got at least a NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care. For more details, please ring Linda on 01752 212168 BODY REPAIR/PANEL BEATER/SPRAYER Westover Bodyworks is looking for someone to help part time with accident repair, dents, scratch removal and bodywork repair. Based in a busy workshop environment, you will be required to be adaptable to all accident and vehicle repairs; car and light commercial. Experience in car repair is preferable.

Email westoverbodyworks@talk21.com ENGAGEMENT VOLUNTEER Healthwatch Plymouth is a local service to give the people of Plymouth a voice with regard to their experiences of health and social care services. We are looking for people to talk to other people about their experiences. We operate from various locations across the city. We provide training, expenses (out of pocket and travel), transport and you will be with a positive and supportive team. No experience necessary just the ability to listen to people and hear what they are saying. You will meet new people, have fun, build your confidence, build on your CV and gain new skills. Contact details are volunteering@ healthwatchplymouth.co.uk or 08009230039 for further information VOLUNTEER RECEPTIONIST Plymouth Natural Health & Healing Centre, Outland Road PL2 3PY, Looking for a part time receptionist at the centre. Experience not necessary as training will be given. For more information please phone Robert Parkins (Chairman) on 07980 581177. Charity no 288813 VOLUNTEERS WANTED The Primrose Foundation, Plymouth’s only breast care charity supports those going through the breast care pathway, and are looking for enthusiastic volunteers. You’ll be helping at coffee mornings and spending time with patients and their families - so you’ll need to be comfortable chatting and listening.

Please contact Madeleine Matthews on 01752 975217 or email madeleine@primrosefoundation.org for more information.

6 December 2018

@PlymChronicle

Council seeks local views on neighbourhood plan Plymouth City Council is currently consulting local residents on the Plympton St Mary Neighbourhood Plan which was submitted to the council in October. The deadline for comments is 12 noon on December 14.

The plan has been put together by the Plympton St Mary Neighbourhood Forum, a non-political group, which was set up in 2015 by residents and supported by local councillors The group took advantage of the Localism Act 2011 which gave communities more power over future planning issues in their area.

They formed a committee and agreed objectives, which included looking at transport and getting around, the economy, housing and heritage.

They all agreed that the plan must set out

to reflect the views of residents, business and other stakeholders in the electoral ward of Plympton St Mary.

The first draft of the Neighbourhood Plan was taken into the community to get their opinions and comments and last year the group held a six-week public consultation which took place in several venues as well as online.

Once they took into account people’s views they put together a second draft.

Chairman of the Forum, Rosemary Hamley, said: “We are grateful for the support of the local residents and businesses to our plan.

The forum is committed to carrying out their wishes about what is important for Plympton St Mary and its community.

“Our Plympton St Mary Neighbourhood Plan has now been submitted and is progressing to the next stage. We are

delighted to be the first forum in the city to reach this stage.”

Much of the content reflects the Joint Local Plan, she said, but added that they had revised their green space policy as a result of inspector’s initial feedback and hoping to see more green space.

She added: “A great deal of work has taken place and this can be seen in the final issue of our plan. The plan will oversee developments over the next two decades and we as a forum want to ensure the wishes of the local community are kept in mind when future developments and planning issues are considered.”

A copy of the plan is available at Plympton Library and people can also view and comment on the plan online at www.plymouth.gov.uk/plymptonstmary neighbourhoodplan (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Self-portrait project set to honour famous Plympton artist A community art project has been set up in Plympton to mark the 250th anniversary of Sir Joshua Reynolds’ election as the First President of the Royal Academy of the Arts.

The project aims to bring together the people of Plympton to create a collaborative community work of art on the theme of selfportrait.

The works are being achieved via artistdirected workshops using a variety of selfportrait techniques and methods, including silhouette and tracing as well as exploring self-expression, a school participation competition and open entry to artists in the town.

Each portrait will be joined to form a tapestry of faces in the form of banners that will be exhibited in the Plympton St Maurice Guildhall for the month of December.

December is the month in which Sir Joshua Reynolds took up office at the Royal Academy back in 1768.

The project is formally called ‘A Portrait of Plympton’. The primary purpose is to celebrate the role of Sir Joshua Reynolds, Plympton’s most famous son, in promoting and developing art nationally.

The project is inspiring community members to find out more about their fellow historic Plymptonian and to make their own self-portraits as well as to to bring together members of the community in a single act of art.

A number of workshops have been held in recent weeks and the aim is to achieve 250 self-portraits. This is a target, not a limit and by mid October the total to date stood at just over 180.

Local community groups, such as Plympton Painting Group, Guides and Scouts, and residential homes have been asked to take part and workshops have been offered to engage all age groups to contribute to the artwork.

One recent self-portrait contributor was a blind person. Organisers gave him high contrast media and let him choose a face shape template to feel his way around with charcoal.

The Plympton St Maurice Civic Association have been among those helping to fund the project and local artist Jill Griffin has taken

the lead role in directing the project.

The exhibition will formally open on Saturday November 24 and continue throughout December.

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Weddings. Following the recent Royal Weddings of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle and Princess Eugenie to Jack Brooksbank as well as the 71st wedding anniversary of the Queen and Prince Philip, the timing of this talk is perfect.

Meg de Blank has a huge knowledge of the Royal Family and has given highly entertaining and interesting talks on Royal

topics in aid of Dame Hannahs in the past.

The Dame Hannahs Ivybridge Supporter Group helps raise awareness and funds for the charity by regularly organising events.

Tickets are selling fast and booking is essential. Please contact: Mrs Jackie Walster Thornbarn, West Alvington, Kingsbridge TQ7 3PG Tel 01548 856 390.

VOLUNTEER SCHOOL GOVERNORS WANTED Do you value the benefit of education? Could you support a local school by being a school governor?

School governors work as a team and play an important part in being a critical friend. Governors also engage with the community. Full training and support is given and the commitment is approx 4 hours a month. Do make contact to find out more information. Karen Powell 07415 665841

Enjoy a royal wedding themed tea in aid of Hannahs

DISTRIBUTORS Cornerstone Vision, publishers of the Plymouth Chronicle, are looking for distributors, to help deliver leaflets across the city and surrounding area.

Transport an advantage, own phone number essential.

We are particularly looking for people to help cover Efford, Ernesettle, Saltash, Ivybridge and Torpoint, although other areas may be available. Please email john@cornerstonevision.com or call 01752 225623

Guests will enjoy a delicious cream tea and a fascinating illustrated presentation

by Royal expert Meg de Blank about Royal

The Dame Hannahs Ivybridge Supporter Group is hosting a very patriotic fundraising event in aid of the charity on November 15 at 2pm. ‘Tea and Tiaras’ will take place at the beautiful and newly refurbished Kitley House Hotel.

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December 2018 7 @PlymChronicle

Peak gas generator plant is proposed for Valley Road A planning application has been lodged to build a peak gas generator plant at Valley Road in Plympton.

These types of plants are designed to cover potential energy shortages, supplying electricity to the National Grid when necessary. As a result they have a short-term operational nature and are more likely to operate during peak load hours only, when the demand for power is higher, but they do have potential to operate at any time.

The proposed development on the site near to the junction with Linketty Lane comprises two gas engine-driven electricity-generating sets.

The engines are proposed to be housed within purpose-built containers, as supplied by the manufacturer.

Local Councillor Terri Beer has concerns about the proposed development and in a letter she has delivered to households in the area she commented: “At this stage I will be objecting to the proposal.” Councillor Beer says she has concerns over issues of potential noise and pollution.

The application documents, however, claim there are no significant noise or pollution issues.

Pre-application tests simulating likely noise levels were carried out recently.

Test microphones were placed in the front property of a garden in Plymouth Road and another in the rear garden of a property in Dudley Road. The resultant report claims the dominant sound on the recordings was traffic noise and activity from a nearby trading estate.

An air quality assessment report submitted with the application contends: ‘The effect of the facility on local air quality would be ‘not significant’.

Councillor Beer is urging all residents to read the planning documents and to have their say.

Full details of the planning application can be viewed at https://planning.plymouth.gov. uk/online-applications/ and searching under reference 18/01820/ful.

Public comments on the proposed application should be made by November 27 to planningconsents@plymouth.gov.uk or Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Plymouth City Council, Floor 2, Ballard House, West Hoe Road, Plymouth, PL1 3BJ. (Story courtesy of www.PlymptonPodcast.org.uk)

Colebrook car park set for clampdown A car park in a Plympton village is set to receive spot check visits and fines dished out to those abusing the parking restrictions there.

The move follows issues raised at October’s ‘Have Your Say’ meeting held at Colebrook Community Centre.

The meeting heard that there are regular infringements of the two hour parking restriction in the small Colebrook Village public car park which is intended for shoppers visiting the village.

Ward councillors said that one idea would be to introduce a parking machine which would require those parking there to take a ticket to show the time of their arrival while still keeping the free parking.

There was however concern among local residents that this could easily lend itself to the later introduction of parking charges which would be detrimental to businesses in the village.

It was ultimately agreed that local councillors would arrange for parking enforcement officers to do ad hoc spot check visits and dish out parking penalties to those overstaying their permitted time.

(Story courtesy of www.PlymptonPodcast. org.uk)

8 December 2018

@PlymChronicle

FROGS want your views on Plympton Guildhall!

Have you ever been inside Plympton Guildhall? If so, a local community group - known as FROGS - wants to know what you think of it - and if you haven’t, they want to know what might tempt you.

The Guildhall dates back to the 17th century and was used by the mayor, a bailiff, nine aldermen, two sergeants at mace, a town clerk and a coroner. Later, two police cells were added.

Today it belongs to a Trust, with Plymouth City Council being the only Trustee, but a

specially-formed local community group is about to sign a long lease in order to share the day-to-day running of this historical gem.

The group the Friends of Plympton St Maurice Guildhall - FROGS – has already refitted the kitchen and re-decorated the main hall, but have longer-term plans too.

Chairman Tim Quinn said: “This is such an important building. We need to see it restored, and to find community uses or ways of earning income to help look after it. We have been given generous funding by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the Architectural Heritage Fund and Plymouth City Council to undertake a

proper business study, and we want to talk to as many people as possible to get ideas.”

Hilary Bracegirdle, who is leading on the study, said: “We’ve had the building surveyed so we know what urgent work is needed, as well as the cost of getting the whole building sensitively restored. We’re also talking to the public about what they’d like to do in the Guildhall. So far suggestions have included a memory cafe, a youth club, pop-up teashop, weddings, flexible work space, Air BnB, museum displays – and even a cat café. It doesn’t matter how wild the ideas are, we want them all!”

The shortlisted ideas will be evaluated

and fuller consultation will take place later. There’s a chance to visit the Guildhall on November 15 when The Box is holding an evening lecture as part of its ‘On Tour’ programme.

The talk celebrates the 250th anniversary of the foundation of the Royal Academy, of which Sir Joshua Reynolds was the first President. Visitors will be sitting in the very building where Reynolds (a native of Plympton) presided as Mayor.

Details can be found in the what’s on section of www.theboxplymouth.com.

Meanwhile, you can get in touch with the FROGS via plymptonguildhall@gmail.com.

Girls take on the STEM coding challenge A special event aimed at encouraging girls to get involved with computer coding took place at Plymstock Library, writes Erin Downes.

The free #GirlCode event for girls aged between 11 and 13 was organised by Women in STEM Plymouth. It allowed girls who may not have had the opportunity to code before, to experience it in a fun and friendly environment.

The hour was run by professionals from the hi-tech industry, from companies such as Elixel, Babble and Vualto.

The interactive session gave girls the chance to gain handson experience of the basics of programming using the BBC micro:bit.

They were encouraged to learn in

a very relaxed environment to help show how interesting and fun STEM routes can be.

Women in STEM Plymouth is a network formed with the purpose of helping to tackle the gender gap in STEM professions - science, technology, engineering and mathematics - in Plymouth.

Their ethos is that ‘women in STEM roles should be celebrated, championed and rewarded just as much as their male colleagues.’

They are attempting to reach this goal through three main aims: Inspiring more girls into STEM, supporting women in STEM through networking and also promoting the fantastic work women can do.

They later tweeted saying ‘What a fab afternoon at our first ever #GirlCode event. Really good to see

so many girls interested in tech and getting involved with #microbit, well done all!’

According to the WISE Campaign in 2017, women made up only 23 per cent of those in core STEM occupations, which was only marginally ahead of the previous year.

The imbalance is clear, making it all the more important for people to step in and help young girls to realise that they can do anything they set their minds to - even if that is in a traditionally ‘male dominated’ industry. #GirlCode aimed to encourage girls to consider a career in technology and software development and help them to realise that they are just as competent in those industries as anyone else.

It’s Christmas Fair time again at St Mary’s

St Mary’s Church in Plympton will be kicking off the yuletide season on Saturday December 1 by staging their annual Christmas Fair from 10am - 1pm.

It will take place in the Church Hall in Market Road. There will be a wide variety of stalls including books, fancy goods and handicraft, cakes, bric-a-brac, toys, plants, tombola and Christmas gifts.

A grand raffle draw will also be held and there will be an interesting array of other activities during the course of the event.

Refreshments will be available, including mince pies of course.

A church spokesperson said: “We look forward to seeing our many friends again and know that we can count on their continued support for which we are truly grateful.

“Not surprisingly, for a building that is over 700 years old, the task of maintaining it and keeping it habitable is huge. Plympton would not be the same without its iconic church.”

December 2018 9

@PlymChronicle

Concern over future of Drakeland’s mine Significant concern has been expressed over the future of Drakeland’s tungsten mine at Hemerdon after work at the mine stopped on October 10 and the company running it, Wolf Minerals, was placed into administration.

Speaking during his appearance on Hospital Radio shortly afterwards (see story below) local MP Gary Streeter said: “I’ve had all sorts of meetings. This has been my highest priority; it’s 240 well-paid jobs and a lot of money for our local economy.

The important thing is that we keep the mine alive while interested parties have an opportunity to come along and buy it.

MP’s radio rundown on Brexit, high street woes and Hemerdon South West Devon MP Gary Streeter appeared on Hospital Radio Plymouth one evening last month to answer questions on a variety of issues.

During his hour on the air on October 26 he explained the advantages of academy status for secondary schools, gave an update on progress with improvements to the south west’s rail network and action that needs to be taken to preserve city centre shopping areas.

There were a number of questions on Brexit and Mr Streeter outlined the likely affect on the 161 farms in his constituency as well as what it could mean for his urban constituents.

The MP also explained how his

constituents were geographically divided in their views on the referendum with the rural part of his constituency voting to remain in the EU whereas the urban areas of Plympton and Plymstock voted to leave.

The Boundary Commission for England (BCE) has come up with proposals to change the shape of the constituency at the next election, with Tavistock being added and Plymstock being taken away.

The proposed new constituency was originally going to be called Tavistock and Ivybridge and Mr Streeter explained to listeners why he wrote to the BCE asking for Plympton to be included in the title in addition to Tavistock and Ivybridge.

The Mayflower 400 celebrations, the Thales project at Turnchapel Wharf, safety

issues with the A38 and the situation at Drakelands Mine at Hemerdon were also among the numerous issues discussed during the programme.

As well as current affairs there was also some more light-hearted discussion about the MP’s early life, his school days, his first chosen occupation as a lawyer and he also chose some of his favourite songs to play.

Speaking after the show Mr Streeter described it as ‘an enjoyable experience’.

A recording of the show can be heard online at www.soundcloud.com/hospitalradio-plymouth/gary-streeter-2018 and there will be some extracts from it in the December audio edition of the Plympton Podcast.

“I think it’s a 50/50 chance of the mine staying open and I very much hope it does because once it’s closed up that tungsten will never come out and we would not get the economic benefit for our region.”

Sparkwell Parish Council also expressed its concern. Vice chairman Julian Taylor said: “This is a tragedy. No-one is leaving here with a large redundancy cheque. Many of the employees are young people who joined Wolf to seek a long and secure career and now their plans are in ruins. The business has been crippled by process problems and world tungsten prices. We call on all available agencies to seek to guide and support those who are losing their jobs.”

Concern has also been expressed in the community about what will now happen to the future landscaping of the area covered by the mine.

Mr Taylor added: “The company leaves behind a part finished landscape on what was ancient moorland. At this time the position regarding any indemnity provision to restore any part of the site is not known.”

Devon County Council however sought to provide a degree of reassurance on the future of the landscape at the mine if it does not re-open. The authority revealed that a bond exists which could be used to restore the site if it becomes necessary.

A DCC spokesman said: “A large restoration Bond is jointly held by DCC and the landowners. This Bond could be used to permanently restore the site only if there is no realistic prospect of the site reopening.”

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

10 December 2018

@PlymChronicle

Great Santa Kayak puts the fun into fund-raising

Santas will be combing their beards, tweaking their little red hats and floating onto the waterfront for the annual ‘Great Santa Kayak’ at the Mount Batten Centre on December 2. They are lucky enough to also have Radio Plymouth and One Plymouth involved as key supporters.

Celebrating its third year, the founding members of the committee – Jamie Yabsley, Tricia Duff and Scott Grenney – created the event as an innovative way to raise money for good causes in the Plymstock area.

Since it began in 2016, the event has been successful in fundraising for a range of causes that are all close-to-home.

In 2016, the money raised was

Story by Erin Downes donated to the Stroke Association in aid of a local colleague who had suffered a haemorrhagic stroke, and in the following year it was used to raise awareness and funds for Shekinah, St Luke’s Hospice and Mount Batten Centre Charity.

This year’s worthy causes are Mount Batten Centre Charity and Devon Air Ambulance, as a way of thanking them for their amazing lifesaving efforts when one of the Centre team needed help earlier this year.

This year’s event also has a particularly fun programme.

Those involved can enjoy a bacon bap and a tea or coffee on arrival, before changing into their Santa suits

and enjoying a paddle on a sit-ontop kayak with a group of qualified instructors.

They are also providing a steaming cup of soup in The Lookout at the Centre to help warm up participants once the experience finishes at 12.30pm. All the specialist watersports equipment is provided by the centre as well as Santa suits to ensure everyone looks the part.

The ‘Great Santa Kayak’ has been incredibly well received in previous years, with all involved having a great time whilst helping such great causes.

There are limited spaces on both single and double kayaks, so it’s important to sign up quickly to avoid disappointment.

To learn more, or to sign up visit www.mount-batten-centre.com/ great-santa-kayak-2018.

December 2018 11

@PlymChronicle

Get on your bike for RNLI’s first Reindeer Ride in Plymouth Plymouth RNLI is hosting a festive family bike ride along the Plym Valley cycle route on Sunday December 9.

The charity’s first ever Reindeer Ride will take cyclists on a 10 mile winter adventure starting and finishing at Plym Bridge Woods where they will be rewarded with a hot drink and mince pie.

The family friendly cycle path follows the route of an old Great Western Railway track on the edge of Plymouth, taking riders through glorious oak woodland, out into open

countryside, across breath-taking viaducts and through an illuminated tunnel.

Starting at 10am, riders will be joined by RNLI mascot Rookie the Reindeer. Participants can complete the route at their own pace, with the opportunity to stop off, enjoy the scenery and get into the festive spirit.

James Clarke, RNLI community fundraising manager said: “Our volunteer lifeboat crews are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including Christmas Day. While most of us are settling down to enjoy our

Christmas dinner, our volunteers are ready and willing to leave family and respond to the call to help those in trouble at sea.

“Our first Reindeer Ride is a great opportunity for families to get together, get on their bikes and join others in a fun day out to raise vital funds to train and equip our volunteer lifeboat crew so that they are able to do their lifesaving work in Plymouth at Christmas and the rest of the year.”

To sign up for Reindeer Ride, visit www.RNLI.org/ReindeerRide

Rookie the Reindeer at Plym Bridge

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12 December 2018

@PlymChronicle

Future of Target Travel to be decided at public inquiry The future of Plympton bus and coach operator Target Travel will be decided at a public inquiry to be held before the West of England Traffic Commissioner in Bristol on November 20.

At an earlier inquiry held before Traffic Commissioner Kevin Rooney in July, an Order was made revoking the firm’s operator’s licence with effect from 23.59hrs on October 27.

That enquiry heard of concerns over the alleged use of untaxed vehicles, failure to act in a timely manner to obtain approval for a new transport manager after the previous one resigned and a general lack of overall control at the firm.

Mr Rooney did however give the firm a chance of putting its house in order and applying for a new licence. After delivering his decision to revoke Target Travel’s current operator’s licence the commissioner added: “I make no order for disqualification and provide a period of time for this generally compliant operator to make a new

application. Such an application is more likely to succeed if the finances are shown as being genuinely available.

“Demonstration of a proper governance structure and attendance at public inquiry for the application by all statutory directors and the nominated transport manager will also assist, as will a schedule of vehicles showing usage and their taxation status.”

Target Travel duly applied for a new licence but this had not been decided by the time the revocation Order was due to take effect. The Traffic Commissioner therefore subsequently granted a further stay of execution.

The Traffic Commissioner’s communications manager, Damien Currie, said: “The operator’s licence held

by Dealtop (Plymouth) Limited – Target Travel’s legal name – will now be revoked at 23:59 on December 21 following an amendment made by the Traffic Commissioner to his original order.”

“The date has been extended to allow due consideration of a new licence application by the company. The new licence application

will be examined at a public inquiry in Bristol on November 20.”

The extension enables the company to continue to run its various school contracts, Devon County Council services such as the 59 to Cornwood and it’s Argyle match day specials.

Target Travel have however lost their Plymouth City Council subsidised routes, including the 52 and 19/A, in a re-tendering exercise which saw them being awarded to rival operator Stagecoach.

The last Target Travel 52 and 19/A services ran on October 26 after which the company posted a message on its Facebook page saying: “We would like to thank all our loyal passengers and hope to see you all again soon. We would also like to wish our drivers that are leaving to go to pastures new all the very best and many thanks for your hard work.”

The firm pledged: “We will be still running our Devon routes out and about and continue to grow from strength to strength.”

The loss of the Target Travel services in Plympton was met with disappointment and

sadness by some bus-goers.

Julie Elliott commented: “My mum used the 19A service around Plympton and will certainly miss one of the drivers, Nom. His helpful and cheerful manner were a credit to him.” These sentiments were echoed by another local resident who remarked: “He’s been brilliant with my autistic son who loves catching the bus with him.”

Sharon Parkinson said: “I’m sure that all the Merafield residents will miss their usual driver, Nom, as he was so helpful and friendly.”

Nom told the Plympton Podcast that a number of his passengers were in tears on his final day. “Five of my passengers were crying because it was my last day for the route. I’ll miss all my passengers,” he said.

Mark Sowton posted on social media: “Some lovely drivers have taken me to work the last couple of years. Will be missed.”

Kathy Macfadzean who lives in a rural village on the outskirts of Plympton added: “They’ve always been brilliant to us.”

(Story courtesy of www.PlymptonPodcast. org.uk)

VOTES NEEDED FOR CITY’S FIRST SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

The Mount Batten Centre Charity Trust has teamed up with Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB) to request funding from the Aviva Community Fund for Plymouth’s first Surf Life Saving Club to be based at the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre.

Plympton Stannators meet for their annual lunch

St Elizabeth’s House in Plympton St Maurice played host to the annual Stannators’ lunch for the third year in a row.

Current Stannator Natalie Harrison was joined by fourteen past Stannators as well as two of the town’s four Honorary Stannators for this year’s meal.

Together with their dining companions more than 30 people tucked into the two course lunch.

The event is arranged annually by the immediate past Stannator and this year Andrew Hill welcomed the party to the event and one of Plympton’s Honorary Stannators, the Reverend

Prebendary Margaret Cameron, said grace before the lunch was served.

The lunch was rounded off by a short speech from current Stannator Natalie Harrison and followed by a group photograph at the front of the hotel.

(Story courtesy of www.

PlymptonPodcast.org.uk)

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However, the project needs public votes to be considered further. If the project is successfully funded, in the first year specifically targeted groups of local young people will be recruited to be trained as lifeguards, particularly those from the PL1 and PL2 areas of the city.

Those recruited to the project will follow a rigorous programme which, on completion, will result in them achieving accreditation for their engagement, attendance and resilience.

The qualifications include first aid, lifesaving, water safety and significantly improves experience and understanding of water based safety matters.

Sam Waites, activities manager at Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre said: “We want to establish the first young people’s Surf Life Saving Club in Plymouth, to provide an essential community resource in Britain’s Ocean City.

“We would be immensely proud to train future lifeguards, provide pathways to employment and up-skill the local community in water-safety awareness.”

Funding will be used to allow for the set-up of this inaugural running of the project. The Mount Batten Centre Charity Trust would need to purchase specialist items such as wetsuits, safety equipment and rescue boards whilst also enrolling successful applicants with the national governing body.

Tim Coventry, CEO for Surf Life Saving GB said: “We are delighted to be partnering with The Mount Batten Centre Charity Trust for this potential funding from the Aviva Community Fund but we need the public to cast their votes to ensure we can progess the project to the next stage. SLSGB ensures that our beaches and coastlines are safer and more enjoyable places for everyone and we believe Plymouth is the perfect place to locate a new Club.”

The Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre provides water and land based education, training and leisure activities to thousands of people each year.

Next year the Centre will celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Each vote will support The Mount Batten Charity Trust to deliver a positive life changing impact on the future of young people within the city by giving them the skills to help other. Votes can be submitted online via www.avivacommunityfund. co.uk/voting/project/view/4-1445 up until November 20.

December 2018 13

@PlymChronicle

Theatre going ‘Above and Beyond’ for young people Plymstock Library was lucky enough to introduce the ‘Above and Beyond Children’s Theatre Festival’ to the local community, writes Erin Downes.

In its first year the festival - which is run by the Above Bounds Theatre Collective – was presented at three libraries in the city: Plympton Library, Plymstock Library and Southway Library.

Across the three days of professional theatre, founders Helen Bovey and George Boundy compiled a collection of seven children’s theatre companies to treat young people.

The festival at Plymstock Library started off with a bang as the children were treated to music and nursery rhymes with interactive elements, such as egg shakers, puppets and pom poms, to encourage them to get involved.

They also offered more free activities from face painting to arts and crafts, all arranged with help from local companies and individuals. The children were also given the opportunity to attend inexpensive shows across the three days from FEEL Theatre, Ditto Theatre, Collar and Cuffs, Paddleboat Theatre, Tiny Little Clouds, Brave Bold Drama and OH! Productions.

While all the shows attempted to be inclusive and teach the audience, one in particular had a particularly poignant message for the children. Little Meercat’s Big Panic! by Collar and Cuffs focused

Abovce Bounds founders Helen Bovey and George Boundy

primarily on helping children understand how to deal with difficult emotions, such as anxiety.

Their practical information for the children and their parents on how to deal with these feelings was included in a sensory, inclusive show that encouraged everyone to get involved.

When asked where the idea for the festival came from, the founders explained how they

had been heavily involved in performing themselves, meaning this was a natural continuation of their passion.

They had been shocked at the small part children’s theatre played in larger festivals, so decided to create an opportunity for young people to celebrate theatre in a less formal, lowpressure environment. After working with local libraries previously, they were able to

continue this relationship and encourage everyone – even those on the outskirts of Plymouth – to use theatre services and enjoy the arts.

The programme successfully attempted to get theatre to those who traditionally may not be able to access it and introduce younger generations to feel excited about art, music and theatre. Hopefully the festival will continue to grow in coming years to celebrate local families and bring them together through this medium.

Planning a party? Enter this competition and be in with a chance of winning an ‘Astroball’ party package at Clip ‘n Climb Plymouth! For up to 15 people, this prize also includes tickets for the jaw-dropping 9-metre drop slide, as well as a selection of freshly made pizzas baked onsite at Clip ‘n Climb Plymouth’s brand-new café. Suitable for both adults and children, the winner of this prize will have a fun-packed day to remember!

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14 December 2018

@PlymChronicle

Councillor’s Corner with Rebecca Smith In the six months since I was elected as local councillor for Plymstock Radford ward, I’ve been tasked with a wide range of tasks and challenges.

From getting a redundant telegraph pole removed to dealing with housing issues. Celebrating a large international company setting up offices in Turnchapel to ensuring grass, trees and shrubs are cut back properly across the ward. Plus the inevitable dog poo and bin issues!

If you follow my Facebook Page (@ CllrRebeccaSmith) you’ll have seen my posts about these issues and more – all of which I’ve been happy to tackle on behalf of local residents.

The work of a local councillor is wide and varied. However, two things I have rapidly come to enjoy are meeting with individuals and groups across the ward to see the issues they are raising for myself and spending the Community Grant money I receive each year to contribute to local projects.

This month I am holding my first Councillor Surgery. I’ll be at Plymstock Library on Saturday November 24 from 10am to midday and any Plymstock Radford residents can come and have a chat.

Please make the most of the opportunity to raise any issues you may have, let me know of anything you think is working particularly well, or get me involved in any local community projects or groups which would benefit from Community Grant money – it’s there to spend and I’m keen to help!

If you’re not able to come along on the 24th, I’m always contactable via email: rebecca.smith@plymouth.gov.uk, telephone: 07825 034970 or Facebook: @ CllrRebeccaSmith

Rebecca Smith visiting Hooe and Turnchapel Community Centre to see the new kitchen she supported with her Community Grant

Rebecca Smith and Gary Streeter MP at the opening of the new Thales centre at Turnchapel Wharf

Nancy Astor canvassing in 1919 Photo: The Box

Campaign launched to raise a statue honouring Nancy Astor

Prime Minister Theresa May is backing a campaign to raise a statue to Nancy Astor, the first female MP to take her seat in the Houses of Parliament.

She is joined by some of the most longstanding and iconic female MPs from both the House of Lords and the House of Commons across all political parties in Britain.

Theresa May said: “As the first woman to take her seat in Parliament, Nancy Astor paved the way for the many - but still too few - women who have followed in her footsteps over the last hundred years.

“As she said in her maiden speech, her fellow MPs should not be frightened of what Plymouth sends out into the world - indeed, Plymouth and the whole UK should be proud of the great strides Nancy Astor made for equality and representation.

“I am proud to serve as the UK’s second female Prime Minister in a Parliament with more female MPs than ever before. But I want that number to continue to grow - so I am proud to support this initiative to mark the centenary of Nancy Astor’s election with a statue, and hope it will inspire new generations of women and girls to play their full part in our democracy.”

A Crowdfunder campaign for the statue was officially launched on November 2 with a special event at her former home in Elliot Terrace on the Hoe. Plymouth MP Luke Pollard is chairing the campaign, which hopes to raise £120,000 in time for the centenary anniversary of the year Nancy Astor was elected.

To date there is no public statue to Lady Astor and campaigners are hoping for backing to raise funds to build one to be unveiled on The Hoe in Plymouth, 100 years to the day since her victory was announced on the steps of Plymouth’s Guildhall on November 28 1919.

Luke Pollard said: “Plymouth has a proud and rich political history and we need to celebrate our successes as a city. That’s why I think it is time to remember properly the public service of Nancy Astor who was not only the first woman to take her seat but was a Plymouth MP. “As a city we are sometimes slow to celebrate our history and that needs to change. The 100th

anniversary of Nancy Astor’s election gives us the chance to remember her contribution to our city and the nation and how she opened the door to more women standing for election.”

Nancy Astor, who was originally from America, was elected to Parliament just one year after some British women received the vote, by a huge majority of voters in the West Country city of Plymouth.

More than 70% of the electorate turned out: the Plymouth people knew they were making history by sending the first woman to parliament.

It was on December 1 1919 that she first walked into Parliament as the first elected female MP to take her seat, facing 620 men – most of whom

“She was fearless in the way she championed the interests of Plymouth, the causes that mattered to people in our city and women, children and families throughout the country.

She blazed a trail for others to follow. A statue to recognise this is long overdue”

LINDA GILROY

were fearful and hostile to the idea of women in Parliament.

That moment changed equality and democracy in the UK irrevocably.

International Astor Scholar Dr Jacqui Turner from Reading University where the Astor Papers are held, explained: “The election of Lady Astor changed British democracy forever. The importance of her election is that here, for the first time, was a woman who was able to directly influence the parliamentary debate and the writing of the laws of their own land. A responsibility she willingly shouldered for all women.

“Her courage and resilience in standing alone for almost two years in a hostile House established a platform on which women continue to build today. Her arrival in Parliament ushered in a new type of politician, a public woman, a new perspective and a reminder that there was a female electorate who increasingly demanded to be satisfied.”

Nancy Astor was persuaded to stand for the seat in Plymouth after her husband Waldorf -

who previously held the seat - was elevated to the House of Lords when his father died and he inherited his title becoming the 2nd Viscount Astor.

Alice Astor, grand-daughter of Nancy Astor, who is supporting the campaign, said: “I’m thrilled to be supporting this campaign. My grandmother was a trailblazer in politics who was passionate about Plymouth and a statue would be a fitting tribute not only to her service to the people of the city but also to her determination to be the voice of people who until then did not have a voice in Westminster.”

Linda Gilroy, who held the seat of Plymouth Sutton from 1997 to 2010, and who is part of the fundraising committee, said: “Lady Astor rose magnificently to the enormous challenge of being the first woman to take her seat in Parliament.

“She was fearless in the way she championed the interests of Plymouth, the causes that mattered to people in our city and women, children and families throughout the country.

She blazed a trail for others to follow. A statue to recognise this is long overdue.”

Linda Gilroy is joined in her campaigning for the statue by two other former women MPs from the city - Alison Seabeck (Labour) and Dame Janet Fookes (Conservative) - and actively promotes the cross-party aspect of the campaign.

If enough money is raised in the initial stages, then a design competition will be launched to design the statue. There are three sites on The Hoe outside Nancy Astor’s former family home - which she gifted to the city on her retirement that will be considered.

Among the range of Crowdfunding rewards available are: £1,000 for tickets to the VIP unveiling of the statue and a champagne reception at Lady Astor’s former family home at Elliot Terrace on The Hoe in Plymouth afterwards, £500 for an engraved stone around the statue, and many rewards of £15 for name, photo and hopes and dreams for the future to be placed inside a time capsule to be opened in 100 years.

To contribute please visit www.ladyastorstatue 100.co.uk and you can follow the campaign on social media at @ladyastorsatue or www. facebook.com/ladyastorstatue

December 2018 15

@PlymChronicle

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Plymstock teenager chosen for GB judo training camp in Japan Plymstock School student Max Gregory continued an impressive year with an invitation to attend an exclusive judo training camp in Japan in October.

The youngster currently holds the title of 90kg British Cadet Champion, and regularly represents England at Cadet Cups throughout Europe.

Max has gone from strength to strength with his judo, even being handpicked to represent Team GB. His most recent event took place in Japan, the home of judo globally, but they are also the next Olympic hosts, making the opportunity even more important.

Max was given the chance to travel alongside only 12 other individuals to take part in this camp which followed the British Judo Association’s technical development framework.

He trained at multiple different high schools during his visit, allowing him to

Story by Erin Downes

work on his skills with other top competitors and continue to push his own limits in a challenging environment. The focus of the training camp was to ensure young athletes have the technique and ability to be able to transition into senior competition in years to come.

Throughout the ten-day trip he was not only able to work on his judo, but was also introduced to the rich culture that is prevalent across Japan.

Another of his exciting events took place in Holland just prior to the GB Futures Camp where he completed two competitions in two days, winning both events. One of these was in Emmen in north-eastern Netherlands,

with the other taking place around two and a half hours away in Alkmaar. That competition consisted of three fights of knock out rounds, all of which he won by ippon (scoring one full point). As well as this, he was also given the opportunity to fly to Strasbourg earlier in October for an intensive five-day GB heavyweight training programme to further develop these skills.

In addition to Max’s achievements, his younger sister Cordelia is also making a name for herself in the world of judo.

Cordelia holds the title of Britain’s number one ranked cadet judoka in her weight and is also ranked 19th as a senior. Earlier this year, at the English Open in Walsall, she won gold in the over 70kg category, showing skill up against opponents older than her.

She is also in the England Squad and is working hard to try to join the GB Squad in the near future. Their hard work and dedication to the sport has clearly paid off, and wish them both all the best for their future sporting careers.

Living well with dementia According to the Alzheimer’s Society, 850,000 people in the UK live with dementia, which is defined as ‘different brain disorders that trigger a loss of brain function. These conditions are all usually progressive and eventually severe.’

Despite the hundreds of thousands of families affected by dementia, there is often a clear lack of advice and support. However, a new initiative organised by the NHS Livewell Dementia Advisor Service is addressing this.

Taking place in a number of locations across Plymouth since being launched in April, there are now Dementia Support groups to fill the gap.

The groups generally last for five sessions over a five week period. Covering everything from ‘What is Dementia?’ to ‘Planning Ahead’, the sessions provide a guide on how to make life with dementia a little easier.

Accepting diagnosis, refusing to let it change their lifestyle and making a conscious decision to take positive steps in the right direction are some of the main focuses.

The programme also allows a safe, nonjudgemental place for those living with

Reporter Erin Downes, whose grandfather has dementia, recently attended a support group to find out more about the condition

dementia to speak confidentially about it with other people who understand.

By being able to share their experiences with dementia and listen to others, they are encouraged to find answers from one another and use each other as facilitators.

Before leaving the programme, everyone is equipped with a ‘Support Plan’ to give them

a practical tool to live with their diagnosis.

These plans allow the devoted Dementia Advisors to know exactly what help is needed and ensure they can put it into action to help make life easier.

Carers or family members are also able to contribute to the plans, voicing their concerns to ensure they get the help they need. This extra support can make all the difference. Speaking to other carers or family members in the same situation can provide an outlet to express difficulties and gain an insight into how to deal with these problems.

One service user said, “As the granddaughter of someone living with dementia, attending these sessions allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the illness.

“It gave me a greater appreciation of the day-to-day difficulties associated with dementia and how I can help to make my grandad’s life easier.“ Often we forget how many people deal with these disorders every day, so it is important to thank Dementia Advisors who are working continually to make life easier for them.

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263 Beacon Park Rd, Plymouth 01752 787600 15 Stuart Rd, Pennycomequick 01752 222003 28 Pomphlett Rd, Plymstock 01752 492122 15 Fore Street, Totnes 01803 863448 15 Fore Street, Kingsbridge 01548 853116

16 December 2018

Celebrating Christmas Together...

The Minster Church of St Andrew

Nov 24 Christmas Pudding Workshop: Abbey Hall (behind St Andrew’s Church) 7.30pm. Tickets £5 from church office 661414. Ingredients provided, bring a bowl and wooden spoon. Gospel choir singing.

Nov 29 Advent Choral Concerts: Vivaldi Gloria Thursday 1.10pm, optional lunch 12pm.

Dec 7 Shekinah Evening of Words & Music 7.30pm. Free admission/donation.

Dec 16 and 24 Children’s Christmas Services: Nativity 10am. Christingle Services - Christmas Eve 2.30pm and 4.30pm - bring your children.

Dec 23 Carols By Candlelight: Traditional Nine Lessons & Carols with choir at 6.30pm.

Dec 24 Midnight Communion 11.15pm Christmas Day 10am for all age celebration.

Derriford Church (URC) Powisland Drive

Dec 2 10.30am Toy & Tree Service Dec 23 10.30am Nativity; 7pm Carols by Candlelight Dec 24 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10am Family Service

Devonport Community Baptist Church, Welcome Hall

Dec 10 Cider and Carols at the Lounge Pub in Stoke, 7.30pm Dec 15 Cafe church at the Devonport Live Café,(George Street) Devonport 2pm Dec 16 Advent Café Church at the Welcome Hall, Devonport 11am.

Dec 23 Carols by Candlelight at the Welcome Hall, Devonport 6.30pm Christmas Day Service at Welcome Hall, Devonport, 10am

Christ Church, Estover

Dec 3 Community Carol Service 6pm Dec 5 Christingle Service 7pm Dec 19 Crib Service 1.30pm Dec 24 Midnight Communion 11.30pm Christmas Day Service 10am

Leigham Community Hall

Dec 23 Leigham Christingle 3pm.

St Edward’s, Eggbuckland

Dec 1 Eggbuckland Christmas Festival 4pm to 8pm Dec 7 Christmas Craft and Wreath Making 7pm Dec 9 Eggbuckland Christingle 11am Dec 16 Carols by Candlelight 5pm and 7pm Dec 24 Christmas Eve Nativity and Crafts 2pm, 3pm and 4pm (with live donkey) Dec 24 Midnight Communion 11.30pm Christmas Day Service 10.30am

Mutley Baptist Church

Dec 9 Alternative Carols 6.30pm Dec 16 Morning Carols 9am Dec 16 All age Christmas Celebration 10.30am Dec 16 Carols by candlelight 6.30pm Dec 23 Carol Service Sunday 10am Dec 24 Late Service at 11.15pm Christmas Day Morning celebration 10am

RCCG Overcomers House Davie Hall, 1 Clifton Place, North Hill Road Dec 31 Communion/Crossover Night Service 10pm

Salisbury Road Baptist Church Rosebury Avenue, St Judes

Dec 23 Christingle all age worship service 10.30am Dec 23 Carols by candlelight 6.30pm Dec 24 Christmas eve communion service 11.30 pm Christmas Day all age worship 10.30am Dec 30 Morning worship 10.30am

St Jude’s Parish Church Beaumont Road

@PlymChronicle

Dec 16 Carols by Candlelight 6pm Dec 24 Family Christmas Eve Afternoon festive gathering for all ages 4pm Dec 24 Christmas Eve Midnight Communion 11.30pm Christmas Day All Age Communion 10.30am All of St Jude’s Advent and Christmas events and services online at judes.org.uk/christmas-2018

New Life Fellowship Widewell Primary School

Dec 19 Carol singing in Belliver Estate 7pm Dec 23 Family Christmas celebration 10.30am

Living Well Church, Plympton

Dec 23 Family Christmas celebration 10.30am Dec 23 Carols by glow stick 6pm

Efford Christian Fellowship, Torridge Way

Dec 21 Youth Club Carol Service with Nativity Play at 7pm Dec 23 Carols by Candlelight at 7pm Refreshments.

St Paul’s Church, Dunford Street

Dec 12 Special Christmas service for those with dementia, refreshments after 3pm Dec 16 Carols by candlelight with mince pies/mulled wine 6.30pm Dec 23 Christmas all age service 11am Dec 24 Midnight Communion 11.30pm Christmas Day Celebration of the birth of Jesus 10am

St Matthias, North Hill Road

Dec 9 Normal morning service 10am Dec 9 Evening Carols Service - ticketed event 5pm Dec 9 Evening Carols Service - ticketed event 7pm Dec 16 Family Carols Service - ticketed event 9.30am Dec 16 Family Carols Service - ticketed event 11.30am Dec 16 Normal evening service 6pm Dec 24 Accoustic Carols Service 6pm Christmas Day Service - 1 hour 10am All service times are start times, doors will open 30 minutes before.

Tickets for selected services have to be ordered online beforehand, they are all free we are just limiting the numbers for our building capacity. Weblink to our Christmas page: www.stmplymouth.org.uk/christmas

Morice Baptist Church Ham Drive

Dec 16 Christmas Messy Church service including scratch nativity and crafts for all the family, but especially suitable for those with preschool children 10.45am Dec 16 Candlelight carol service with nativity play performed by Girls’ Brigade 6.30pm Dec 23 Morning worship ‘Getting ready for Christmas’ morning service but with a Christmas twist! 10.45am THE

Experience

Dec 24 Midnight Communion Service 11.15pm Christmas Day Family Service – bring an unopened present to unwrap during the service 10.30am Dec 30 Carol request service - a service of carols readings and sketches for all the family 10.45am

Pilgrim Church, St Levan Road, Plymouth Dec 9 Candle-lit Carol Service, 10.30am Dec 23 Nativity Play 10.30am

City Church, Open Doors International Language School Dec 9 Carol service 10.30am Dec 16 Christmas Celebration 10.30am

St Budeaux Methodist Church, Barne Lane

Dec 22 Christmas Tree Festival at 10am - 4pm Dec 23 Worship at 10.30am led by Keith Angilley. Tea and coffee available from 10am. Carol service at 4pm, followed by a light tea.

Christmas Day Service at 9am led by Revd Kate Konrad.

Crownhill Methodist Church

Dec 16 Carol Service 4pm Dec 24 Midnight Communion 11pm Christmas Day Holy Communion 9am

Nov 30 Santa in the Church. Free refreshments, many activities and free food. Celebrating the Crownhill Community Lights Switch On. From 5pm.

Dec 12 Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir 7.30pm Dec 24 Family Christingale at 3pm. Communion 11.30pm Christmas Day Family Service 10.30am

Hooe Baptist Church

Hope Baptist Church

Plymstock Chapel, Church Road

St Andrew’s Buckland Monachorum & Holy Spirt, Milton Combe

St Michael’s Church, Albert Road, Stoke

Dec 13 Christingle Service 6pm Dec 16 Carols by Candlelight 6.30pm Dec 23 Nativity Service 10.30am Christmas Day Service 10.30am Dec 23 Everyone welcome to our Christmas family service at 11am. Come early for refreshments.

Candlelight carols at 6pm, all welcome for a festive evening.

Plymouth Methodist Central Hall, Drake Circus

Dec 16 Morning Worship & Holy Communion 11am, Messy Christmas 3pm. Event for all the family with lots of activities for children, and Outdoor Nativity with Carols (in the church car park, weather permitting) Dec 23 Morning Worship 11am. Candelit Carol service with Christmas message 7pm.

Dec 24 Midnight Holy Communion and Carols 11.15pm Christmas Day Christmas Day Praise for everyone 11am

Emmanuel Church, Mannamead Dec 21 Dickensian Evening 6.30pm

Dec 15 Carols in the Park. Sing your favourite carols with a live band in Central Park. (Entrance in Peverell Park Road, opposite Edgcumbe Park Rd) 4pm

Dec 23 Service of carols and readings at Milton Combe 10.30am. Service of lessons and carols by candlelight, followed by mulled wine and mince pies 6.30pm.

Dec 24 Christingle service of light for all ages at 4pm.

Midnight Christmas Holy Communion by candlelight 11pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer 8am. Christmas Holy Communion at Milton Combe 9.15am. Christmas Gathering for all ages with carols 10.30am Dec 31 Ringing in the New Year, followed by prayers in church 11.45pm

Plymouth Vineyard Church, Plymouth High School for Girls

Dec 16 Polar Explorers, family Nativity adventure.

10.45am - 12.15pm. Carols & Candles 7pm.

‘A happy heart is good medicine’

surprisingly simple principles that can make a huge difference. Let me try to illustrate what I mean: What makes me happy and relaxed may be the very Those words are straight out of the Bible, which thing that you try to avoid because it makes you bored is full of wisdom that has stood the test of time over or edgy, and vice versa. In relationships this is either thousands of years and it’s more than just positive going to cause tension and frustration if I try to get thinking. my needs met; or lead to grace or generosity if I try Against a backdrop in our news and social media to meet yours, depending on how we choose to deal about the problems of mental ill-health, how do we with it. apply those words? When everything looks bleak is it My wife and I are wired almost totally, completely realistic to expect a happy heart and cheerful mind? opposite in many ways – for instance, I love to do the The answers, of course, are as varied and complex same thing over again, like walking the same route as the issues that face us in our time here on this through woods and over moorland; planet. There is no ‘magic bullet’ to she wants to go find a new route and Ian Pilkington cure our depression; no miracle drug; a new destination every single time. no ‘one size fits all’ quick fix. But there Her choice sets me on edge as is hope and it lies in the opposite I gear myself up for the unknown, direction to the pursuit of happiness. ready to deal with it but not exactly Usually it surprises us when we are enjoying the rest. My familiar, the most self-forgetful, giving out regular route, with what I see as an rather than looking to consume. ever changing complexity of nature I battled (and it is past tense, which through different seasons and itself may give hope) with depression weathers, is to her not worth doing on and off for twenty years. And my twice because there’s so much more wife battled with living with me in out there to discover. all that too. So I realise there are Who is right? Both, of course, and deep issues involved here that a neither. What makes us happy is as little article like this isn’t going to unique as our fingerprints. So, we touch. But there are equally deep yet compromise. In that compromise,

A happy heart is good medicine, and a cheerful mind works healing.

Dec 23 Children’s Nativity 10.30am. Carol service 6.30pm Dec 24 Children’s Crib service 4pm. Midnight Communion 11.15pm Christmas Day Family Communion 10.30am

By Ian Pilkington Trustee of Cross Rhythms Plymouth

someone gives the other the gift of the thing that makes them happy at the apparent cost of pursuing their own happiness. And another piece of wisdom from Jesus comes into play: it really is better to give than to receive (and note, Jesus has no problem with receiving!)

Giving of ourselves is often undermined in our western culture, which emphasises the idea that ‘getting what I want’ will somehow bring me fulfilment.

Yet love leads us out of our isolation into a spacious place, where others live with us, as we seek to meet some (not all) of their needs.

Even something as simple as going for a walk where others would prefer, and not us, can be an act of love.

It’s how we learn to share life together, and you could ‘multiply’ it up to the major issues of life between any people in any relationship, and the principle still holds true. Giving out for the purpose of enriching another person’s experience, from a heart that is securely loved and when we rightly love ourselves, is the route to happiness and a cheerful mind.

For many of us, this begins in a loving relationship with God who is Love, who is also with us in the tough, sad and very unhappy times that will inevitably come our way. He gave Himself, and we celebrate this, appropriately, with giving at Christmas. All of us here at Cross Rhythms hope that you will find the Gift of Christmas in all its forms, more than ever before, this year.

December 2018 17

@PlymChronicle

Work under way on new Central Park café

Work has started on the new Central Park café.

The café will be one of the flagship projects of the overall Central Park improvements project, located adjacent to the clock tower, at the busiest and most visible point of the park.

It will overlook the recently re-opened Play Space, and will be in easy reach of the Community Sports Hub. The café will be built by contractors South West Highways and weather permitting, is expected to be complete in time for summer 2019.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and the Environment, was on site to watch as work began in earnest in November. Councillor Dann said: “We have worked very hard to get to this stage of the project and so I am very pleased to see the first spades in the ground today.

“This café will not only offer an opportunity

to relax and refuel within sight of the Play Space, but will provide much needed toilets, free for everyone to use.

“I look forward to my first cup of tea and slice of cake in the finished café!”

The new café will have an ample outdoor seating area providing extra capacity in better weather.

Designed by Erect Architecture, the café will have a grass roof, a large amount of glazing and canopy-covered external seating area.

The high-quality design aims to reflect and take advantage of the natural landscape and stunning views in the park, enhanced by LDA Landscaping.

It will also provide toilets free of charge for all park users during opening hours. It will be an ideal spot for all ages and provide a base for families to enjoy refreshments while being able to watch children playing.

More details on the Council’s plans for Central Park can be found here: www. plymouth.gov.uk/centralparkimprovements

Work starts on new café, from left: Councillor Pete Smith, Deputy Leader; Ky Cheal, project manager for Currie Brown; Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and the Environment; Nick Ford, project manager for South West Highways and Andrew Clanfield, associate project manager for the council

End of the road for big screen The big screen in Plymouth City Centre will be coming down next year.

How the new Central Park Café could look – an artists impression of the new Central Park Café, provided by Erect Architecture

Several key components have failed in recent months and most recently the screen has been suffering from regular power outages. Much of the equipment is too old to be repaired and replacements are no longer available.

The screen has been in place since 2008 and has gone well beyond its expected life span.

Plymouth was one of eight UK cities chosen to host a giant screen as part of the Live Sites programme as part of the build-up to the 2012 Olympics. It was made possible through the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, the

BBC, Plymouth City Council and Plymouth City Centre Company.

Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “Sadly, the Big Screen has come to the end of the road. We had to cancel our summer family film shows this year and now, despite recent repairs, it has broken down again. Commercially it’s no longer viable as it doesn’t attract the advertising revenues it did in its early years.”

He said the Plymouth City Centre Company would be looking at alternative ideas for next year to maintain the city centre as a vibrant and contemporary shopping and visitor destination.

The screen is likely to be dismantled in January.

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18 December 2018

@PlymChronicle

Young people in Plymouth make their mark Plymouth recorded one of the highest turnouts nationally in this year’s #MakeYourMark campaign and in November the UK’s Youth Parliament has been debating the top five issues voted on by teenagers nationwide.

Plymouth was ranked the 15th highest turnout area in the country with 54.3% of eligible teenagers taking part in a national ballot to determine issues of importance to be debated by the Youth Parliament.

Plympton’s Youth Ambassador Molly Disney is a keen supporter of the Youth Parliament.

“The Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for young people to inaugurate change across the country

as well as being involved with issues that are prominent throughout society and helping to expose their relevance within our lives,” said the teenager who is part of the junior leadership team at Hele’s School.

Molly added: “Making your mark and being a part of the Youth Parliament can promote positive perceptions of young people whilst giving us the opportunity to speak our minds.”

In the South West, young voters put mental health at the top of the list of issues they wished to have discussed in the UK Youth Parliament with ending knife crime being the next most important issue for them.

Mental health is a subject close to Molly’s heart. “Issues such as mental health continue to be ignored and unspoken about within school and the workplace,” she said.

This is something which is already beginning to be recognised and an event exploring wellbeing in young people is taking place at the Clay Factory in Ivybridge on November 22 and 23. It’s called ‘Resilient Young Minds - A Revolutionary Approach to Wellbeing.”

This one and half day conference will include a variety of speakers, including some students from Ivybridge Community College.

Equal pay for equal work are also issues Molly Disney feels strongly about and she is not alone as these were the third and fourth most important items according to the South West’s youth electorate in #MakeYourMark.

“The issue of homelessness is a factor that prevents young people from achieving their full potential,” explained Molly, adding: “Bringing light

Trio of sponsors come up trumps with new kits

upon this issue and debating why it is so important is one of the reasons why I think the Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for those who want to create a better society.”

She continued: “Another factor as to why I believe the Youth Parliament is a great platform for change is the issue of unequal pay of adults and young people in equal positions of employment.

“In order for young people to progress, stability and encouragement from older generations is needed to ensure our society can be better in years to come. This is why participating in the Youth Parliament will allow for the views and opinions of young people to be heard.”

(Story courtesy www.Facebook.com/ PlymptonYouthMatters)

Plymouth faces a budget crisis with surge in demand for social care Plymouth City Council is urgently managing a projected £5.2 million overspend caused by unprecedented demand for social care services and years of Government funding cuts.

Chaddlewood Miners U9 Clarets are sporting some fantastic new kits this season thanks to a trio of local sponsors.

AMT sponsor the team’s home kits and the kits for the team’s coaches. Plymouth Car and Commercial sponsor the away kit and Ace Fire & Security feature on both kits having sponsored the team to purchase some equipment they needed upon entry to the DJM League.

Team coach Paul Canning said: “Our kits were made by Raging Bull and look amazing considering they don’t normally supply football teams.

“We have a fantastic and supportive group of parents. Some of the lads have played together for a couple of years but most have only just started on their football journeys and they seem to love being part of a team.”

The children in the team all go to Old Priory, Chaddlewood, Boringdon or Glen Park primary schools.

The team have got off to a good start this season. At the time of going to press their record stands at three wins, one draw and two losses.

(Story courtesy of www.PlymptonPodcast.org.uk)

Molly Disney

Council leaders say pressures in managing big increases in the number of vulnerable children and adults needing essential care while Government funding declines year after year has put the budget at breaking point.

The projected £5.2 million gap in managing the budget for 2018/19 has been identified by financial monitoring which showed significant additional costs in childrens social care over the last few months requiring an extra £4.1 million for essential care for vulnerable young people.

A budget monitoring report to the Cabinet says that as well as a big rise in the number of vulnerable children needing care, the cost of the care is particularly high due to the level of support needed to keep young people safe, such as specialist residential care placements with high levels of staffing. A number of very costly care packages are the result of Court of Protection orders that place a duty on the Council to provide specialist care.

The council is committed to fulfilling its duty to safeguard vulnerable children and is working to find savings in other areas to address the shortfall.

At the same time the council is dealing with very high demand for adult social care as more frail elderly residents and people with dementia need support, costing an extra £481,000.

The report says it is also seeing an increase in homeless families needing temporary accommodation, which is costing an extra £168,000.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet member for Finance, said: “We’ve had to manage year after year of cuts to our Government funding but we are now close to breaking point. There’s absolutely no room in our budgets to meet the exceptional increase in demand for social care that we are now facing. We absolutely must - and will - protect these vulnerable young people.

“We are seeing the consequences of 10 years

of the Government’s austerity programme through a rapid increase in the number of very vulnerable people needing help, whether due to age and frailty, illness, poor mental health, abuse or homelessness. The cost of supporting some individuals is very high due to the severity of their problems and the need for high levels of personal care.

“We are seeing the impact of a social care market that is broken nationally. Despite the whole local government community calling for action, the Government continues to fail to address the problem.

“The money for social care announced in the Chancellor’s budget is just a drop in the ocean and will be of little help to us in addressing this problem.”

Plymouth’s position reflects a national problem and similar rises in demand and costs are being experienced by many other authorities around the country. There are currently 424 children with care packages and the number of children in the city needing residential places has doubled since 2014.

Supporting children and adults accounts for around 55 per cent of the City Council’s annual revenue budget of £186 million and it is required by law to provide most the services.

Urgent work is under way to find £5.2 million savings across the council to close the funding gap for 2018/19. This is particularly difficult as it comes on top of existing savings targets to address the year on year cuts in the Government’s funding, which will have decreased by 88 per cent by 2020.

This financial year the Council has had to find £11 million of savings, after delivering £18 million last year.

Councillor Lowry said: “We are going through all budgets with a fine-tooth comb to squeeze out every saving we possibly can but we’re going to have to make very difficult decisions about the level of service we can provide in the future unless the Government urgently addresses the crisis in social care and properly takes account of local need.”

December 2018 19

@PlymChronicle

Delegation meets Transport Secretary about A38 A modern A38 to support Plymouth’s plans to grow the region’s economy for years to come – that’s what the city, Cornwall and co-signatories of the A38 Case for Action have asked of Government.

A delegation of MPs and Councillors, including Plymouth MPs Luke Pollard and Johnny Mercer met Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling to ask for this key trunk road to be part of the next Road Investment Strategy – which will shape Highway England’s future investment from 2020 to 2025.

Cabinet Member for Transport Councillor Mark Coker said: “Most people in or near Plymouth know how critical the A38 is to their daily lives.

“It is a key route through the city, it is a road thousands of people use every day to get to and from work and it is a road on which 1.2 million vehicle hours are wasted by business travellers every year through delays.

“That is an extraordinary figure. And it is extraordinary that despite the A38 being

one of 30 priority routes identified for safety treatment by Highways England it is not in any scheduled improvement programme.

We have been working with our Cornwall colleagues to change that.”

“It is a key route through the city, it is a road thousands of people use every day to get to and from work and it is a road on which 1.2 million vehicle hours are wasted by business travellers every year through delays” COUNCILLOR MARK COKER The delegation set out a number of short term improvements they want: • Capacity and safety improvements to the A38 junction at Manadon Roundabout to help unlock growth in the northern corridor • Capacity and safety improvements to Deep Lane Junction. (These will complement

CO-OP CUSTOMERS GIVE A BOOST TO THE GUIDES Plympton’s Girl Guides say they are ‘ecstatic’ at receiving nearly £8,000 from the Co-op’s community funding scheme.

A spokesperson said: “This is 10 times the amount we had initially hoped for and will really make a difference to Betts and

the Guiding experience all our girls and volunteers have.”

Laura Parker from the Guides added: “We are very grateful to the shoppers of the Coop in Plympton.”

(Story courtesy of www.PlymptonPodcast. org.uk)

Plymouth’s Transforming Cities Fund which will help to facilitate the construction of the Park & Ride) • Improvements at Menheniot/Lean Quarry junction to address safety issues. (This will also complement the Transforming Cities Fund which would facilitate the construction of Park and Rail facility and taking advantage of more frequent local train services between stations in Cornwall, Plymouth and beyond being introduced from 2019) • Capacity and safety improvements to Bodmin Parkway station.

The delegation reiterated concerns over the A38’s safety record. Over five years, there have been 830 injury collisions between Bodmin and Exeter, of which 16 were fatal and 104 serious - that’s three and half times the national average for this type of road.

In total on the A38 between Bodmin and Exeter there have been over 1,500 unplanned closures in the last five years, which equates to six closures every week. This compares poorly to the A30 where there were less than

500 unplanned closures in the same period.

In the long term the delegation is collectively calling for national funding for a strategy for the A38 from Exeter to Bodmin, so that costs, timescales and benefits of upgrading this route to a modern standard can be clearly understood.

This will include widening of the A38 between Weston Mill Junction (Naval Base access) and B3413 Forder Valley Interchange.

Investment in the A38 has the potential to generate £890 million in wider benefits to the area’s economy – but a strategy is needed to get this onto to the Government’s road improvements to-do list.

Councillor Coker added: “I’d like to place on record my gratitude to residents and businesses who have helped us get this hugely important scheme on the Government’s radar.“ “We had a really constructive meeting and the minister has told us to work with the DfT and Highways England to secure a long term investment plan for the whole of the A38 starting in RIS2. We are on our way.”

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@PlymChronicle

Children encouraged to step inside Plymouth libraries Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise and health improvement charity, Well Connected, have recently donated 30 copies of their ‘Open Wide and Step Inside’ books to Plymouth Libraries.

‘Open Wide and Step Inside’ is a schoolsbased initiative which is aimed at five to seven year olds to help them to develop good oral health hygiene by telling the story of Geoffrey the Giant who has toothache and his journey to visit Daisy the Dentist.

He meets different characters along the way who each tell Geoffrey a key oral health message.

The donation of the books to the twelve libraries across the city and also the school library service will enable more children and their families to read Geoffrey’s story and discover how to look after their own teeth in a fun, friendly yet educational way.

The books are bright and colourful children will enjoy meeting the different characters.

Prince George and Princess Charlotte were recently sent copies of the book too which Prince William acknowledged in an encouraging letter about the project sent as a ‘thank you’ to the Well Connected team.

Wendy Smith, strategic lead for Community Engagement at Well Connected said: “We are delighted to be donating our brand new Open Wide and Step Inside hardback books to Plymouth Libraries.

The books are a welcome addition to the project which enables us to reach more children and their families across the city and promote the importance of good oral health from a young age.”

Well Connected delivers interesting and exciting projects in communities across Plymouth to promote and encourage positive lifestyle choices. One of these projects is Open Wide and Step Inside which is delivered in partnership with Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise and is supported by The Wrigley Company Foundation.

The project is an innovative oral health improvement resource helping to tackle the problem of large numbers of children needing tooth extraction in the south west region.

Well Connected and Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise are committed to improving the dental health of children in Plymouth as part of the city’s Child Poverty Action Plan.

Open Wide and Step Inside has recently been nominated as a finalist in the Early Intervention category at the Children and Young People Now Awards and in the Best Community Initiative category at the Oral Health Awards - both ceremonies will be held in London in November.

To find out more about the Open Wide and Step Inside project please contact Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise via pdse-info@ plymouth.ac.uk or the Well Connected team via info@wellconnecteduk.org

Fenella the Fairy Tooth Godmother with staff and visitors at The Beacon Library, North Prospect

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National recognition for Plymouth’s action on plastics scheme Environment Plymouth, the city’s networking organisation for everyone concerned with the environment and sustainability, has made it through to the finals of a national awards programme for its efforts to reduce single-use plastic across the city.

The campaign ‘Plastic Free Plymouth Waterfront’ run by Environment Plymouth in a partnership which includes the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth City Council and the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, is one of 30 community groups shortlisted from more than six hundred entries in the ‘Groundwork Community Awards 2018’.

It is competing against two other projects – one in the Lake District and the other in Felixstowe – for the best Community Group Contribution to Environmental Sustainability.

The shortlisting recognises the success of the efforts by Environment Plymouth to engage local communities, charities, businesses and individuals with its ‘Plastic Free Plymouth Waterfront ’ campaign.

Within five months of launching the Plastic Free Plymouth Waterfront initiative, Environment Plymouth had succeeded in attracting more than 80 business ‘Pioneers’ and more than 60 community ‘Ambassadors’ all of which had signed up and pledged to reduce their use of single-use plastic.

With initial objectives met, the campaign was declared a success and the Waterfront area awarded Plastic Free Community Status from the organisers, Surfers Against Sewage in record time.

“Right from the start, there was a commitment from people to get involved and a willingness to bring about change,” said Jackie Young, co-ordinator of Environment Plymouth. “Working with our partners we enabled people to turn their intent into action.”

Dial the Experts The handy guide to Plymouth trades & services

ARCHITECTS

ELECTRICIANS

J & M ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN House & Building plans Extensions • Conversions • Alterations Planning & Building regulation applications Fast & efficient service 01752 936125 07745 392764 jjmmdesign@yahoo.co.uk • www.jmdesign.org.uk BUILDERS

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R.C. Electrical - Ryan Cross

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www.rc-electrical.net rc.electrical@outlook.com 07813 195943

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ROWE NET - Electrical & Home Automation

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D HEWLETT GENERAL BUILDERS • All general household maintenance work undertaken • • No job too small • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Plastering • • Carpentry & joinery • Guttering • Windows • Bricklaying • • Bedrooms • Facias • Driveways • Patios • Decking • Call Derek on 07967 233257 or 01752 777578

T.CLARKE BUILDING & ROOFING PROPERTY MAINTENANCE All jobs done from a slipped slate to house renovation.

Trading standards approved and Buy With Confidence Member Tel: 01752 267507 - Mob: 07967150441 tclarkebuilders@outlook.com

BLINDS BEACON BLINDS Huge selection of blinds and awnings.

Plymouth’s only Luxaflex Inspiration dealer.

Free quote, free fitting, established 1976.

Specialist Showroom at 263 Beacon Pk Road, PL2 3JP.

Call 01752 787666 for a free home visit. www.beaconblinds.co.uk

CARPENTERS ALLWOOD INSTALLATIONS Trading Standards approved company Bespoke joinery • doors • staircases • bars Box frame windows • counters • PCstations.

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

All associated plumbing,electrical & tiling Tel 07704448835 www.allwoodinstallations.co.uk 01752348648 allwoodinstallations@icloud.com

MALCOLM WILLS • COMPLETE CARPENTRY SERVICE All aspects of carpentry repairs, refurbishment, new work, doors, flooring and alterations, shelving and storage Call for estimate.

07599 888841 • 01752 255154 malcolmwills2017@outlook.com

TS CARPENTRY Kitchens • Roofs • Refurbishment • Doors • Windows • Bedrooms • Staircases • Floors • Decking • New Builds • Bathrooms • Extensions 263 Bampfield Way, Plymouth PL6 6SZ Tel: 01752 212042 Mob: 07813 115891

CARPETS

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STEVE ELECTRICAL Fully qualified and insured electrician • Free estimates/no call-out fees • all electrical work considered • Over 20 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business • NICEIC cert • Rewires • Certification for minor or major work Very competitive prices/ high quality work.

Will beat all other reasonable quotes.

• Call Steve 07894 208842

GARAGE DOOR SERVICES

PLYMPTON & SOUTH HAMS GARAGE DOORS – Local family business; repairs and servicing, new garage door installations, remote electric operators for new and existing doors, electric gate automation, electric/manual roller shutters.

Free estimates and surveys. Tel 01752 348488 www.psgdoors.co.uk

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING

ROB'S LANDSCAPES

Landscaping AND GROUND MAINTENANCE IN PLYMOUTH AND THE SURROUNDING AREA Landscaping • Gardening • Natural Stone Walling • Fencing • Gates Block & Brick Walls • Patios • Decking • Ground Maintenance • Block Driveways Pressure Washing • Turfing Artificial Grass • Chainsaw License Free estimates • 18 yrs experience • Find us on Facebook

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LOCKSMITHS

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GREENS OVEN CLEANS Let me give your oven a new lease of life Call Trevor on 07501 645208 trevgreen4@gmail.com Fully Insured

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A M Removals Man & Van Service Plymouth Single items to full house moves 1 or 2 men available Fully insured Local/national work 07845735818 • 01752930301 www.amremovalsplymouth.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • • No job too small • 24 hour emergency call out • • Senior citizen discounts • Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429 B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job too small from tap washers to central heating systems. Free quotes gas safe registered. No call out charge, recommendations can be given. 07971572632 www.bw-plumbing.co.uk PINK PLUMBERS Fast, Friendly, Reliable and tidy service by your local FEMALE plumber.

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PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

One Call Maintenance Contact Richard 07974 101028

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DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

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LES PIKE • Emergency roof repair specialist • Concrete tiles • Natural slate • Lead valleys • Flashings All building & construction work undertaken.

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22 December 2018

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

@PlymChronicle

Your guide to community events in your area Plympton Library Family History Help Desk Tuesdays, 9.30am - 11.30am Get help and advice in tracing your family history.

Booking required.

Rhymetime Tuesdays, 10.30am - 11.30am Thursdays, 2pm - 2.30pm Saturdays, 10.30am - 11am Songs and nursery rhymes for babies and toddlers.

IT for Beginners Wednesdays, 10.30am - 11.30am Aimed at beginners, find out what you can do online by signing up to ‘Learn My Way’. Staff will be on hand to help.

Feel Better with a Book Wednesdays, 11am - 12pm Enjoy the power of great novels, stories and poems read aloud in a small friendly group.

Book Group Thursdays, 6pm - 7pm Meet up to talk about what you’ve been reading. Each month there will be a different book to read and discuss.

Board Games Evening Thursdays, 6pm - 8pm Drop in for an evening of gaming in a family friendly space. Games will be available, but feel free to bring your own.

Hello World - Coding and Making Saturdays, 9.30am - 10.30am After school club for anyone interested in coding and digital making. For 8 to 13 year olds.

Memory Conservatory Mondays, 2pm - 4pm Drop in for a reminiscence, arts and crafts, singing or to see a friendly face and have a cuppa.

Plymstock Library Feel Better with a Book Tuesdays, 10am - 11.30am Enjoy the power of great novels, stories and poems read aloud in a small friendly group.

Film Show Monthly, second Tuesday of the month, 2pm - 4pm Join in the fun for a free showing of a classic film.

Check with the library for this month’s title.

Hello World - Coding and Making Tuesdays, 4pm - 5pm After school club for anyone interested in coding and digital making. For 8 to 13 year olds.

Rhymetime Thursdays, 2.15pm - 2.45pm Saturdays, 10am - 10.30am Songs and nursery rhymes for babies and toddlers.

Libraries also run regular story times for the under 5s.

Lego Club for Grown Ups Thursdays, 6pm - 7.30pm Lego is not just for children! Why not join the Lego group for grown ups? The Lego is provided, you provide the building skills. No booking needed.

Share a Story Saturdays, 10.30am - 11am A weekly drop in session where you can read stories and do activities together. Each week follows a different theme.

Lego Club Saturdays, 2.30pm - 4pm Do you have a big imagination and like making things?

Why not join the Lego group? For children aged 6+.

Film Show Monthly, third Monday of the month, 2pm - 4pm Join in the fun with a free film show. Check with the library for this month’s title.

Plymstock Library Writers Group Amateur authors of stories and verse seek similar minded people for the sharing and discussion of each other’s work. We meet in the Plymstock Library on the first Thursday of every month for 2 hours starting at 5pm. Interested, then come along, or should you want

more information on the Plymstock Library Writers Group ring Tom on 01752208735.

Plympton Painting Group A fun thing to do! If you are interested in any sort of drawing/painting, why not join? Meeting in the multipurpose room at The Rise, George Lane, Plympton on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month between 7pm and 9pm. There are great speakers, most of the time demonstrating watercolours, acrylics, oils, pastels and drawing - a wide variety to suit everyone!

Don’t worry if you haven’t got the right equipment members are happy to share and advise. It is a group of enthusiastic amateurs who love to paint. Come and see for yourself at one of the meetings, and enjoy the fun. Ring Gill on 01752 350544 for more information.

Plymstock Gardening Society Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of the month at 7.30pm at Plymstock United Church Hall, Plymstock Road Oreston. The Hall is open from 7pm and new members and visitors are very welcome.

Plympton Gardeners Association First Thursday of every month at 7:30pm at Harewood House, Plympton.

We have talks from visiting speakers on gardening topics, monthly and annual competitions for members and we hold two flower and produce shows every year.

We also run a Trading Hut during the growing season where gardening supplies can be bought at competitive prices. Visit www.plymptongardeners.com for more details.

Plympton and District U3A The general meeting of the group, is held on the fourth Tuesday of the month to which visitors will be made most welcome. It begins with tea/coffee at 1.30pm, at Harewood House, Plympton. We have a wide range of interest groups for you to join and an officer available to help you choose. Groups include exercise for the mind and body example, quiz group and pilates. The meeting itself, with guest speaker, starts at 2pm. Our Christmas outing is to Tyntesfield, on Fri 30 Nov, and our Christmas Social, Tues Dec 11. For further information contact: u3asites.org.uk/ plympton or Maggie Holmes on 01752 957044 Coffee Morning First Wednesday of month St Peter’s Lutheran Church, Larkham Lane, Plympton hold a friendly coffee morning 10am to 12 noon.

Cost is £2 that includes a second cup of coffee and homemade cake. Everyone welcome. Come and make new friends.

Age UK Activities Age UK Plymouth’s William Venton Centre in Plymstock provides a wide variety of regular, friendly activities for over the 50s and carers.

A range of social and creative activities for all abilities: Freshly cooked lunches are available daily at just £6 for three courses.

Mondays Card and Puzzle Group. £3.

Art and Craft, also on Wednesdays, if you enjoy being creative, come along and join this friendly group.

1.30pm - 3.30pm. £3.

Music for the Memory. 2pm - 3.30pm. Free.

Busy Fingers Knitting Group, also on Wednesdays and Fridays. 9.30am - 11.45am. £3.

Reading Group, every third Monday of the month.

10.30am - 12pm. £3.

Tuesdays Tai Chi for beginners and improvers. 10am - 11am and 11.15am - 12.15pm. £4.

Bingo. 1.45pm - 3.30pm. £5.

Walking football run by Plymouth Argyle.

1.30pm - 2.30pm. Suggested donation £2.

Wednesdays Relaxing Yoga. 10am - 11.30am. £6.

Singing Group. 1.45pm - 3.45pm. £3 Thursdays Short Mat Bowls. 9.30am - 12pm. £3.

Art Group. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. £3.

Line Dancing. 2pm - 3.30pm. £5.

Fridays Scrabble. £3.

Computer Lessons. Come and learn new skills from getting online safely to reading emails. Booking required, free.

Quilling. A unique skills rolling, shaping and gluing paper to create interesting designs on cards and paintings.

National recognition for top Plymouth law firm Plymouth law firm, GA Solicitors, has secured its ranking in the prestigious legal directory, The Legal 500, for five of its commercial and private client departments.

levels provided. The Legal 500 is one of the most prestigious guides for those looking for a legal professional and the research process is comprehensive and onerous, with thorough research and interviews.

“This success is backed up by our The Legal 500 analyses the capabilities prominence in Chambers & Partners UK of law firms across the world. Its rankings where we have six of our partners ranked are made on a series of strict criteria as leaders in their field and also three and highlights teams who are providing departments highlighted - family, personal the most cutting edge injury and corporate and innovative advice to commercial. corporate counsel.

“This national In the recently released recognition demonstrates 2019 edition, five of GA’s the firm’s commitment specialist departments to its clients and were ranked for their work the integrity and in their respective fields professionalism of any of law: corporate and advice given.” commercial; commercial With more than 200 litigation; personal tax, years of heritage, GA trusts and probate; Solicitors is a multisector commercial property and Plymouth law firm with personal injury. nearly 80 members of Stephen Ramsden, staff, offering guidance managing partner of GA across seven specialist Stephen Ramsden Solicitors, said: “We are departments: business; delighted to see that such a high number family; employment; dispute resolution; of departments have been recognised for wills, trusts & probate; conveyancing and the calibre of their work and the service personal injury.

9.30am - 11.45am and 1.30pm - 3pm. £3.

Memory Lane Group, for carers and the with memory loss. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. £3.

For more information please ring 01752 405632 or visit www.ageukplymouth.org.uk Sequenced Dancing Tuesdays and Saturdays Plymstock Community Centre Tuesdays 2pm-4pm; Saturdays 7.30pm-10.30pm All welcome 01752 251313 or 668017 Plym Valley Sugarcraft Guild Meet on the third Monday of the month at 7.30pm at Norley Hall, 70-74 Plymstock Road, Plymstock. We are a friendly group of likeminded people of varying ages and skills, from beginners to the very experienced.

We hold various demonstrations and workshops each meeting from flower making to how to stack a cake. Contact chairman Ros Hawkins at roshawkins@ talktalk.net or secretary Carol Tweedie caroltweedie@ hotmail.com More details at www.bsgregion6.com and Facebook page Plym Valley British Sugarcraft Guild.

Sandy’s Plymchords U3A Fun Choir Tuesdays Chaddlewood Farm Community, Glen Road, Plympton 10am to 12 noon. Singing lots of popular songs in unison. No need for auditions or to be able to read music. For information ring Sandy on 01752 930524 Hooe and Turnchapel Ladies Group Meet on the first and second Tuesday of the month, 8pm at the Hooe & Turnchapel Community Centre.

Call 01752 311931 for more details.

Plymstock ‘Wednesday Wives’ An independent group of women who meet for a varied programme including speakers, workshop evenings, games, meals out and visits, and of course, chat!! We welcome all ladies (married or not) to the Hall at the United Reform Church Plymstock Rd, on Wednesday evenings (not first one in the month/and not school holidays generally) from 7.30pm - 9.30pm.

We have tea/coffee and a light supper which we take it in turns to provide. For details/dates please contact Jacky Partridge 01752 231139 ansaphone on.

Monthly Market Third Saturday of month St Peter’s Lutheran Church, Larkham Lane, Plympton hold a monthly market with crafts, jewellery, cakes, bric a brac and books etc. 10.am - 1.pm. Good refreshments available. Free entry.

Why not pay us a visit?

Sparkwell WI First Wednesday of month Sparkwell Parish Hall. Guest speaker this month Mark Rendell on the topic Eat, Drink and Be Merry. Come and see what we are about. No obligation but you are most welcome. Contact Heather Harvey 01752 893 249 Colebrook Community Centre Colebrook Community Centre is a totally self-funding charity.

Regular Events Monday: Diabetic group, 4 - 5 Children’s Language class Tuesday: 2 - 4 over 60’s group 4 - 7 Dog Training Wednesday: 9.30 - 10.30 Pilates 4 - 5 Children’s Language class Thursday 2nd week of month: 9.30 - 1 Fostering Thursday 3rd week of month: 10 - 1 Multiple Sclerosis 1.45 Pilates Friday: 9.30 - 10.30 Pilates; 11 - 12 Children’s Language class Friday: 1st and 3rd week of the month Country Dancing Car Boot Sales at Peacock Meadow & George Park & Ride March - October Available for hire suitable Children’s Birthday Parties Contact Kay for further details tel 01752 200046 Woodford Methodist Community Church Church and Worship Morning Worship and Children’s Sunday Club 10.30am 2nd-5th Sunday of every month. A guaranteed relaxed service, with friendly ministers and congregation. A team of wonderful Ministers keep each week fresh and rewarding. Experienced children’s workers in Junior Church teach and care for children from toddlers to teenagers with age-related activities. Those with babies and very dependent children are welcome to join in with this group. Prayer Team available to talk over your worries at the close of the Service. Drinks, biscuits and opportunity for friendly conversation in the hall after every service. We have grown to expect the unexpected in this modern, happy, friendly church.

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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY December 2018 23

Monthly Early Traditional Service (followed by Messy Church) 1st Sunday of every month. 9.30am Traditional Service with hymn books, prayer and a sermon. This is a wonderful time of worship with the traditional contents of a Methodist Service with a modern joyful twist. Members of the Prayer Team are available for you to speak with at the close of the service. You are then invited to go into the Hall for hot drinks and biscuits. This is a great opportunity to meet some of the members of this church and stay for the Messy Activities or just relax and have a chat over a hot drink.

Join the Santa Fun Run

Messy Church - begins at 10.30am with a session of arts, crafts, fun and mess in the Hall for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Hot drinks and biscuits are available and the opportunity to stay for lunch at the Church for a minimal cost. The items made are then taken into the Chapel for a very informal short Service.

The children are asked about the things they have made, before heading back into the Hall for lunch, or more coffee etc. This is a great opportunity to get to know the church and the people involved in it.

Energie Fitness for Women Classes at Lister Close, Plympton Tuesday 9.30am Ladies only Legs, Bums, Tums Tuesday 10.15am Ladies Only Pilates Wednesday 9.15am Ladies only BodyPump Wednesday 11am Ladies Only Pilates Friday 6pm Ladies only FatBlast Saturday 11am Gentle motorised exercise Sunday 9.15am Mixed Class BodyPump For more information call 01752 340044

‘Overflow Praise & Worship’ service 6.30pm - 8.30pm on 2nd Sunday of every month. Time in God’s presence:- worshipping, giving thanks, praying and sharing what God has laid on your heart in an awesome and amazing way. Refreshments will be served during the evening.

Prayer Group Tuesdays 9.30am-10.30am (In the Lounge).

In all the hustle and bustle of life these days, people struggle to cope, but look to fill that gap in their lives where something is missing. That gap can be filled with the loving family of God in a local church. Giving up a bit of time for regular prayer, together with others, can help you cope with the stresses and worry that life throws at you. We provide a non-judgemental circle of friendship and welcome everyone, regardless of background, luggage and history, to come and seek our friendship. We open our doors every week, for anybody and everybody to walk in freely and pray with us. Every word spoken is treated with the upmost confidence and privacy, along with unconditional friendship. Come along and pray with us - life is easier to cope with among friends. You can come in and out as you need and should you need to stay longer or talk to anyone at the end, you will not be turned away. If the doors are locked, knock on the window (room on right-hand end of the church). You do not need to attend any church to come and pray with us. For further information on Woodford’s church and worship events contact Sheila on 338517.

Community Groups: Woodford Wives (1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 7.30pm) This group of friendly women meet twice a month to listen to various speakers and meet socially. They also raise funds by holding a Coffee Bar at Harewood House and stalls throughout the year.

There’s always time for a chat! Day trips away as a group of friends. In recent years they have raised much needed funds for Help for Heroes, Bowel Cancer West (Derriford Hospital) and Shekinah Mission. To find out more Telephone Anne Eames on Tel. 216643.

The Linda Mortimore School of Dance Mondays 4.15pm8pm and Wednesdays 4.15pm-7pm. Linda trained at the Royal Academy of Dance in London and teaches RAD ballet and the ISTD tap, modern and jazz. The school holds a very popular adult tap class and produces stage performances, with regular productions. Dance is a great platform for socialising, learning posture and gaining confidence. Learning to dance can lead to a career or for just having fun. Call 01752 343791 for details.

Women’s Fellowship (Tuesdays 2.30pm-3.30pm - In The Main Hall) Come and join this lovely group, with a vast programme of speakers, covering many subjects.

They enjoy watching various films and slide shows, have annual outings and visits by choirs. The group also hold a regular Bring and Buy table to support designated charities. It is a really friendly, welcoming group with lots of stories to tell about living through different situations and stages, as Christians. Some of the members may well be in their latter years, but have fabulous personalities and lots to share. They enjoy each other’s company and are most definitely young at heart! To find out more about this wonderful group of ladies Telephone Muriel on 345284 or Pat on 348672.

Rainbow Girl Guides Rainbows is a section of the Girl Guides organisation which is all about developing selfconfidence, building friendships, learning new things and having fun. Our group is not running at present, but there are other groups in the area.

To find a group go to www.girlguiding.org.uk and register your details.

Woodford Men’s Meeting 10am (2nd and 4th Wednesday month) The Men’s Meeting, welcome any men who wish to join this convivial group. Session start with a cuppa before a speaker gives an interesting and entertaining talk, sometimes accompanied by a slide show or film, for about one hour. The meeting ends at 11.30am. A small

Saltram Rotary are launching their ninth Santa Fun Run and are inviting Plymouth people of all ages to join them. Each December, the club organises a fun-run through Plymouth’s City Centre.

Hundreds of Santas sign up to take part in this fun occasion and, whatever the weather, they make their way around the route and brighten the day with their cheer.

Participants of all abilities are welcome This year’s run will be held on Sunday December 9 and entries are now open via their official website at www. plymouthsantafunrun.co.uk. Entry cost for the 4km adult course is £15 and, for children, the 2.5km course is £5.

The main charities supported this year are Dame Hannah Rogers and Jeremiah’s Journey with the addition of Shekinah, with other Rotary charities also benefiting from funds raised.

After a physiotherapy supervised gentle warm-up, the starting claxon will be sounded at 11am by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth and an impressive tidal wave of red and white (Santa suits and beards!) will set off from Drake Circus towards Frankfort Gate. It’s a sight not to be missed!

Last year, the club had just over a thousand runners, strollers and walkers who took part, and they hope to increase that to 1200 for this year’s event.

Saltram Rotary’s President, Robert Jones said: “This has become an important and

charge of £2 is levied to cover refreshments and fees.

Guest speakers, specialising in a variety of subjects have enthralled those attending. Members and friends are always welcome to give a talk on a subject of their own choice! The group share a huge range of experience, knowledge and stories - why not come and share with them? We always welcome new friends and our group currently range from middle-age upwards. Come along you will be very welcome and have instant friendship in this cordial atmosphere. To find out more, ring Harold on 01752 337085.

Pins & Needles Knitting Club 2.30pm (1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month). This traditional hobby has bounced right back up in the popularity charts. People of varying ages are now picking up knitting needles and are all most welcome to come and join this group, which hand-produce and send knitted goods such as jumpers, blankets and hats for poor children in two areas of Romania and are sometimes asked to produce adult hats for Shekinah Mission, asylum seekers and refugees. One of the members makes cardigans, hats and small blankets for the Neo-natal Unit at Derriford Hospital. It doesn’t matter if you have been knitting for years, or have never seen a ball of wool before the group will openly welcome you and share their knowledge and skills! To join them, please contact Jean Milroy on Tel. 337578.

Games 4 U 2.30pm-4pm (2nd and 4th Thursday of every month) A group of friendly men and women who meet during the autumn and spring school terms.

The group play various board games from the easy to

Sunday of the month. Square dancing 5.30pm -9pm Mondays: Salsa classes 10am to 11am. Chatterbox 1pm to 3pm. Table Tennis 6pm to 9pm 1st Monday of the month Federation of Pensioners 1pm to 4pm (Phoenix Club) Tuesdays: Baby sensory classes 10am to 12 noon.

Valannes’s Dance School Children’s Ballet & Tap 4pm to 7pm. Line dancing 7.30pm to 10pm.

Wednesdays: Over 60’s Club 1pm to 4pm. Dance Aerobics 6pm to 7pm. Latin Line dancing 7.30pm to 9.30pm Thursdays: Watercolour Art Sessions for Adults.

Beginner and experienced artists welcome. Thursdays 10am to 12 noon. For more information call Janet: Mobile: 07742 983311 Line dancing 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Fridays: Evergreen Club 2pm to 4pm. Dance Aerobics 6pm to 7pm. Hall and lounge meeting room for hire telephone Lesley on 07952 465836. Licenced Bar - Open from 7.30pm week days and from 4pm weekends. Soft drinks and hot drinks also sold. All welcome.

colourful part of the Plymouth Christmas calendar and it is something that Saltram Rotary look forward to each year.”

Soo Brizzell, from the homeless charity Shekinah, said that they ‘are delighted and honoured to be one of the main charities for this years’ Santa Fun Run. Their dedicated team, at Shekinah, welcomes the support of Saltram Rotary Club as all money raised will help fund the vital support needed for people who are currently sleeping on the streets in our local community,’ Dame Hannahs’ charity fundraiser Charlotte Nicholls said: “We are overjoyed to have been chosen to be one of the chosen charities for this years’ Santa Fun Run. “We are grateful to Saltram Rotary for the continued support that they have shown Hannahs over many years. We can’t wait to see all of the Santas running to raise money for three brilliant local charities.”

Cindy Willcocks said: “Jeremiah’s Journey is very excited about seeing so many Santa’s taking part in the event this year. The Charity was delighted to receive a significant sum of money from Saltram Rotary Club last year which was used to help support children and young people who were either living with someone who had a terminal illness or had experienced the death of someone special to them.”

For more information visit www. plymouthsantafunrun.co.uk the quite demanding. No matter how much you need to concentrate, the club never lose sight that you are playing games and so there is always opportunity for light conversation during the tea and biscuit break! To find out more about this wonderful group telephone Joyce on Tel. 216343.

‘Woodys’ Youth Group 6pm-8pm. A new group set up for the community by the church. There is a good mix of children from 8-16 where they can test their scooter and skateboard skills on the ramps and jumps. Air-hockey also available. Youth workers work alongside members of the church and other volunteers to support this wonderful project. Primary-age children session 6-7pm and Secondary-age children session 7-8pm.

Laira Youth Band (Thursdays 7.15pm). The Laira Youth Brass Band started in 1972 from the members of the Sunday school at Laira Congregational Church, it has performed hundreds of concerts over the years, in every corner of the City and beyond. Scores of children have passed through its ranks. Most were taught to read music and to play their instrument whilst in the Band, and many have continued their musical hobby into adult life, some choosing a professional career in music. As well as part of the band performing (amongst others) in the weekly church service here at Woodford, the Band also put on regular concerts to raise money for local charities and take part in parades and perform at special church events. To find out more call Tony Hollick on 01752 216784.

Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre Sundays: Church service 10am to 12 noon 2nd and 4th

Plympton Moving On Stroke Club Alternate Wednesdays Meet at Pocklington Rise, George Lane, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 1JL 10.30am to 12.30pm. There is a small charge to cover the rent of the room, and for refreshments £2 per person. We tend to have a speaker one week, and an activity the next. Contacts Tony Stoneman 07834276371; Steve Fairbairn 07718749008.

Plympton Fuschia and Pelargonium Group Second Tuesday of the month The group meets at Harewood House, Plympton at 7.30pm please free to come along. New members always welcome. Full speaker programme to be found on pfgg.co.uk. Contact Sonia on 514119 for more info.

Sandy’s Songbirds Wednesdays A thriving, happy mixed choir. No auditions. No need to be able to read music either. This is a fun-filled community choir meeting weekly with refreshments and raffle too. Wednesdays 10 am to 12 noon at Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre in Glen road behind the Coop.

For details contact Sandy on 07737 461431.

Hooe’s Place Cafe St John’s Church Hall, Hooe. Open to all. 10.30am 11.30am for coffee. Freshly cooked lunches from 11.45am - 1.30pm. St John’s Church open through the hall 10.30am - 2pm. The only bus now travelling to Hooe is No. 2B every 20 minutes stopping outside the church.

Past Times Past Times group was started over 20 years ago to encourage people, especially those on their own or new to the area, to share their hobbies, knitting for charity, cross stitch, board games, quizzes or just pop in & enjoy some friendly company & a cup of tea. We also have a list of other groups, clubs & activities available in Plympton. We meet on the 4th Monday of each month, at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Market Road, Plympton 1.30pm until 3.30 pm. More details are available from the parish office Monday to Friday 9am until 1pm 01752 348525 Friday Night Bingo Fridays 7:30pm at Hooe and Tunchapel Community Centre. Tea, coffee and biscuits. Weekly raffles and late raffle once a month. Why not give us a try! Contact 01752 408441 for more details.

Table Top Sale Second Saturday in the Month (not January) Plymstock Community Centre: Vintage, Collectables and Craft 9am to 2pm. These table top sales are held in Plymstock Community Centre (top of Plymstock Broadway Car Park). A friendly and welcoming atmosphere prevails and there is something for everyone from antiques to knitted gloves and hats to books and records and jewellery. We hope to bring something new each month. Entry is 20p per person but children are free. There is a selection of hot and cold refreshments. Enquiries to Paula 01752 342321.

Circle Dance Thursdays Yealmpton Circle Dance Group. Yealmpton Community Centre, Stray Park, PL8 2HF. 7.30pm-9.30pm. A variety of dance styles from gentle and expressive to lively and joyful. Traditional and contemporary world music. Good for mind, body and spirit. Clearly taught and easy to learn. No partner needed. Friendly and fun. Call 01752 880196 for details.

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• continued from page 23 Mini Dance Machine Thursdays At Rees Youth Centre, Mudge Way, Plympton. Modern fun disco dance group for children. 4.15pm - 5pm for ages 4 to 6; 5pm - 6pm ages 6 to 10. £2 per session. Call Lisa 07896 105 479.

Boxing Classes Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Carl’s boxing stable has opened a new gym in Colebrook training for all ages to compete or just get fit. 7pm to 8pm. Details from Carl on 07837 920150.

Time Out Second and fourth Wednesday A group for individuals who are lonely and isolated.

Come for a chat and make new friends. Plymstock United Church, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month, from 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Refreshments £1. Contact Lin: 07818 254527.

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust Your local sanctuary for most types of unwanted domestic pets. Good homes always needed - have a look at lovely animals, and what we do on www. woodsidesanctuary.org.uk. We don’t destroy any animal unless it’s beyond veterinary help or dangerous and we have special units for elderly residents. Please don’t allow your pet to breed, ask us for friendly advice, or about our spay and neuter scheme for owners on benefit instead. Based in Elfordleigh. Tel 01752 347503.

Ballroom & Social Sequence Dancing Various dates Plymstock Community Centre every Tuesday afternoon 2pm until 4pm and every other Saturday from 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Details 01752 251313 or 01752 668017.

Off Key Singing Group Mondays For people who love to sing in the shower! Mondays 5.50pm to 6.50pm at Derriford Health & Leisure Centre, function room. Girl Guide Hut in Plympton 10.30am to 11.30am. Call 07770 683 314 for more info.

Guitar Classes Guitar lessons for children aged from 6 - 12 years.

Taught in small groups of 2 or 3. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 3.45 or 4.30pm Fridays at 4pm Saturdays between 9.30 - 4pm For more details Tel: 01752 216456.

Classes held in the Woodford area.

Sounds Musical Theatre Company Wednesdays Founded in 1911, we are a friendly, diverse group of people who love Musical Theatre and produce two shows a year. In March/April we perform our annual full musical production, with a musical revue in October.

Rehearsals are every Wednesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm in Oreston Methodist Church Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston. Visit www.soundsmusicaltheatrecompany. co.uk for more info.

Plymstock & District Art Society (PANDAS) Pandas is a small friendly group of amateur painters meeting for two hours (7.30-9.30pm) every Wednesday fortnight at the Radford Family Centre, Plymstock.

Members paint and draw in all media and enjoy occasional demonstrations and models. We are not a teaching class but help each other and have programme of themed evenings. Each year our annual exhibition takes place in Plymstock Library. New members are always given a warm welcome so please contact Mike on 794281.

Stay & Play Toddler Group Wednesday mornings during term time St Mary’s Church Pre-School, St Mary’s Church Parish Centre, Market Road, Plympton. 9.15am to 11.15am.

Group is run by friendly and experienced early years practitioners from St Mary’s Church pre-school that was given an overall Outstanding outcome by Ofsted (July 2011). New and expectant parents welcome. A one-off donation per week to cover costs of £1.50 per adults (children under 12 months) £2 per adult (children over 12 months). Includes refreshments. Telephone 01752 348525.

Beckly Centre Regular events at the Beckly Centre at Mayers Way, Hooe Road, Plymstock include: Mondays 7pm to 9.30pm adult social group with a variety of activities including crafts, life skills, cooking, quizzes, bingo and outings; Thursdays 7pm to 9pm youth group providing social activities in a small friendship mixed ages and ability groups for young people with additional needs; Saturdays and Sundays 10.30am to 3.30pm weekend activity groups for mixed age and ability groups of children and young people with special needs offering a good range of social and group opportunities; school holidays weekdays 10.30am to 3.30pm holiday playscheme activity sessions for small friendship groups of children and young people with special needs. For details call 01752 484433 or 07780 662391.

Barbican’s new Gin Room is the toast of Plymouth A Grade II listed building in Plymouth’s historic Barbican quarter is proving just the tonic for gin enthusiasts.

Owner Doreen Canele-Dow says: “We always knew we wanted a property in this area and, when we saw this building, we knew it was the one.

“The process of The Barbican acquiring it went very Botanics Gin Room smoothly and it has opened its doors been great so far. earlier this month “Our opening to offer around 100 week was really different gins for successful and we tasting and retail sale. have had some lovely Local property feedback. People like consultants Stratton the old building in Creber Commercial particular.” completed the letting Doreen, who of the former art already runs gallery and offices the flourishing at 38 New Street subscription service on behalf of the Little Gin Box, Plymouth Barbican says support for Trust. her new venture Agency surveyor from suppliers and Gavin Sagar says: “We customers has been are delighted to have incredible. assisted Doreen with She adds: “We have the successful letting welcomed locals, of 38 New Street. business people and Doreen Canele-Dow and Gavin Sagar toast a Barbican Botanics even students during successful future for Barbican Botanics Gin Gin Room certainly our first week. People Room. is an impressive, pop in for a gin and high quality business tonic and often end up buying a bottle or and fits perfectly in the historic Barbican two.” quarter. I look forward to next visiting on a The building is one of 20 historic social occasion!” properties looked after by charitable The property has been completely organisation the Plymouth Barbican Trust refurbished to create a tasting room with with management services provided seating area and relaxing chill out room on

by North Hill-based Stratton Creber the first floor.

Commercial.

Fun Club Fridays in term time Fun filled club for primary school aged children from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Plymstock Chapel, Church Road, Plymstock. Games, crafts, stories, songs, tuck shop etc.

50p entrance.

Samaritans and the Smile train, an overseasd medical charity, repairing hair lips and cleft palates.

Friday Night Bingo Fridays 7.30pm At Hooe and Turnchapel Community Centre.

Tea, coffee & biscuits. Weekly raffles and meat raffle once a month. Why not give us a try! Contact 01752 408441 for more details.

Breathe Easy Plymouth First Tuesday of the month Breathe Easy Plymouth, a local support group for anyone with a lung condition, their carers or anyone interested in supporting the group, meets regularly at Tothill Community Centre at 1.30 pm on the first Tuesday of each month. Entry is free and there is tea and coffee with biscuits, then usually a speaker. All are welcome. For more details phone Anne on 01752 402310 or Christine on 01752 220919

SING Every Thursday in school term times Plymouth Community Choir at Pomphlett. Great songs, lovely people and loads of fun! Do you want to sing with us? We meet on Thursdays 7.15pm-9pm at Pomphlett Methodist Church Centre (just behind Morrisons in Plymstock). We sing songs at the soul funky/world music end of the spectrum. Visit www. singdevon.com. Or ring Pete Scott on 07896 276577.

First session free! Book online or by phone.

Buddhist meditation classes Weekday lunchtime meditations 12.15pm - 12.45pm, Wednesday evenings - Introduction to meditation class - 7.30pm - 8.30pm, Thursday evenings - 7.30pm - 9.30pm Meditation - The Art Of Positive Thinking, Sunday mornings 11.30am - 12.30pm Find Inner Peace, Sunday mornings - Children’s classes - 10.30am 11.15am. Held at Ashoka Kadampa Buddhist Centre, 33 Sutherland Road, Plymouth. Tel 01752 224137 www.meditationinplymouth.org

Aden Veterans Calling all Aden Veterans. Did you know that the Aden Veterans Plymouth Branch meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at the RAOB Club in North Hill at 7.30pm. Why not go along and meet like-minded people.

Clog dancing Thursdays A fun way to exercise! The Plymouth Maids clog dancers are a small, friendly group of women who welcome new members. From the beginning of October to the end of April we practice at St Bartholomew’s Church Hall, opposite the Life Centre, on Thursdays 8 - 9.45pm. During the summer we dance out on Thursday evenings at various pubs and other venues in and around Plymouth. We also dance at occasional folk festivals and days of dance. No previous dance experience is needed, just a sense of rhythm. Come along and give it a try. For details contact Jacqui on 07814 355844.

Adult Children of Alcoholics Meetings Tuesdays 6pm – 7.15pm. St Barnabas Church, The Lounge (enter by separate entrance to left of surgery), St Barnabas Terrace, Pennycomequick, Plymouth PL1 5NN. Visit the website at www.adultchildrenofalcoholics.co.uk.

National Phone 01590 610 936.

Badminton Club Fridays Non league club meets on Friday evenings at Whiteford Road, Plymouth to play casual badminton.

All adults welcome including over fifties. For further details contact rcbeasley@btinternet.com Book Stall, Social Call Second Saturday of month Join in the games and fun at Plymouth Unitarian Church, Notte Street. Books, tea, coffee and cake for sale. 2pm to 4pm. Proceeds to support the local

Club Focus Camera Club Mondays Meets at the Future Inn, William Prance Road, Plymouth. Meets first and third Monday of the month from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For details see www. clubfocusplymouth.co.uk Community Dance Classes Exim have weekly Toddle Together dance classes on Mondays at Plymouth School of Creative Arts on Mondays from 9am to 9.45am. Parent/carer toddler

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sessions open to all ages crawling to four years. £3.50. Children’s contemporary dance (6-10 years) Thursdays in term time at Plymouth School of Creative Arts 4.30pm to 5.30pm. £4.50 per class. Adult just for fun contemporary dance at the same venue 6pm to 7pm Thursdays. £4.50 per class. Also Spaceshot dance classes every Wednesday at St Aidan’s Church, Ernesettle every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm. A mixture of street dance, fitness and contemporary.

Free. Details e-mail Kerrie at kerrie@eximdance.org.uk Costa Healing Rooms Meet at Costa, New George Street, c/o Old Town Street every Wednesday 2.30pm - 4.30pm CSPA Second Tuesday of the month The Civil Service Pensioners Alliance meet at the Raffles Club, 5 Ermington Terrace, Mutley from 10.30am to 12 noon. All members of the Plymouth and District branch are welcome to attend. For more information call 01752 946896.

Dancing Duo Fortnightly on Saturdays The Elm Community Centre, Estover PL6 8EU 7.45pm to 10.45pm with Henry and Jeannie. Ballroom, Latin, Sequence, Old Time and more. Free parking. Entry £6. Bring your own soft drinks and snacks. For more information call Jeannie on 01803 325905 or visit www.dancingduo.co.uk Dartmoor Gliding Friendly Flying on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. Call 07873 483001 for details or Google Dartmoor Flying.

Devon Army Cadet Force Voluntary uniformed youth organisation which allows young people aged from 12 to 18 to gain a wide variety of skills and experiences. There is no commitment to join the military, you don’t even need an interest in the military. Parade two nights a week at eight different locations in the Plymouth and surrounding areas. For details of local detachment and further information please call 01752261525. The telephone line is not manned 24 hours so please feel free to leave a message.

Eddystone Model Flying Club Provide help and free instruction for flying radio control fixed wing. Members fly 24/7 weather permitting. New members are welcome as well as experienced fliers. For details visit www.eddystonemfc. net or phone Dave on 07941 040633 or Mike on 01752 403124.

Families Need Fathers (FNF) Second Wednesday of every month Monthly support meeting 7.30pm to 10pm at the RAOB Club, 41 North Hill, Plymouth, PL4 8EZ. If you are separating or divorcing and are worried about not seeing your children, please come to our monthly meeting for support, information and advice. Talk to people in a similar situation or who have been through similar experiences and understand the family court process. FNF is a registered charity founded in 1974 that helps thousands of parents every year. We believe that each parent has a unique contribution to make to their children’s development and that children have a right to enjoy a loving relationship with both parents after separation.

Meetings are open to mothers and fathers and to family members and friends who would like to attend with or on behalf of a parent. For more information, please call Andrew Bull (general secretary) on 01752 793 325, e-mail us at info@plymouth.fnf.org.uk, or visit the website at plymouth.fnf.org.uk GraceNotes Acapella Group Mondays, Burraton Community Centre, Saltash.

7.30pm to 10pm. GraceNotes Acapella is a ladies close harmony acapella chorus who sing a wide and varied repertoire from traditional barbershop songs, through to modern Disney classics! Competing both locally and nationally, as well as performing at many singouts throughout the year, new members are always welcome! Rock up to a rehearsal and see what we do!

Email gracenotessaltash@gmail.com or find them on social media for more information.

Harbour Centre Recovery Café Fridays Female-focused social group for those in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Tea, coffee, regular activities promoting independence, empowerment and positive social/support networks in recovery. Child-friendly.

11am-2pm at Unit 2, 1st Floor, Hyde Park House, Mutley Plain. For more information and support to attend please contact Lynn McKenzie (Harbour Drug and Alcohol Services) on 01752 434299 or email lynn. mckenzie1@nhs.net Healing Rooms Meet at Shekinah Traning Centre, 24 Stonehouse Street, Plymouth on Mondays at 7.30 - 9pm (Not bank holidays)

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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY • COMMUNITY DIRECTORY December 2018 25

National Trust Plymouth Centre (NTPC) The group helps members to make even more of their NT membership and meet like minded people. During the winter months there are talks as listed: April on Mrs Ronnie, the Royal Matchmaker by Janet Crawford.

In addition there is usually coach events each month from April to September. Membership is only £4 or £6 for couples. For more information and application form call Russell on 01752 266608

Love in a box for orphans

Plymouth Proprietary Library Weekdays except Friday The Library has moved into new premises in the former doctor’s surgery in St Barnabas Terrace in Stoke. The library is now open and continuing to run its usual activities which range from reading and poetry groups to monthly lunchtime talks and coffee mornings. Suggestions as to new groups and ways which the library can reach out to the wider community are always welcome. Open every week day except Friday from 11am-3pm. So why not take advantage of the free parking and call in for a coffee and a look round?

Kreative Kidz Tuesdays Crafts, Science and cookery- age 6 months - preschool 12.30pm to 2pm. £5 or £4 if booked in four week blocks. To book email: info:wkuk.org Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Krafty Kidz Tuesdays Childrens activity workshops from ages 5 to 16. Cooker, crafts and STEM activities. £5 per session includes materials. 5.30pm to 7pm.To book email: info@wkuk. org. Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Plymouth Shakespeare Society Meets twice a month from September to May at the Burgess Hall (behind the Unitarian Church) Notte Street, Plymouth from 2.30 - 4.30 p.m. Everyone welcome. Further details call 257764.

Wk’d Wednesdays Adults activity workshops - activities range from crafts, cooking, woodworking, furniture up cycling, sewing. £10 per session includes materials. Accompanied children welcome. To book email: info@wkuk.org. Every Wednesday 6pm to 8pm Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Plymouth Skywatch Meet at St Budeaux Parish Church Hall every third Friday of the month at 7.30pm. The meeting usually consists of highlights of the night sky for the following month followed by a talk on an astronomy-related subject.

There is a break in between with tea and coffee available.

Plymouth Visually Impaired Bowls Club We play in the Plymouth Life Centre at the bowls hall on Tuesday morning from 10.30am to 1.30 pm and Friday morning from 12 noon to 2 30pm. In the summer we play on Tuesdays and Fridays on The Hoe from 10 30am to 1.30pm .If you require any more information please contact Colin Harris on 01752 222184.

Mayflower Offshore Rowing Club Various dates We meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 9.30am at Richmond Walk Devonport. We row out to sea, in The Sound and up the Tamar & Plym rivers. Ages from 14 and all abilities welcome. We run learn to row sessions. Contact secretarymorc@hotmail.co.uk or Jeff Keast 07865 228800.

Moors Edge U3A Second Thursday of the month New members welcome. Meets at the Woolwell Centre PL6 7TR. Guest speakers and a variety of social events.

Growing number of interest groups including bridge for beginners, wine tasting, weekenders, jazz, Spanish, art appreciation and still more to start. Details of groups etc can be found on the Moors Edge website, Facebook and reminders are now put on Streetlife.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Phobias Support Group Meets on Mondays at the Estover Elm Centre at 6.30pm. For details contact Daniel on 07500 837703 Pensioners & Fifty Plus Action Group If you are more than fifty years old and live in the Plymouth area we invite you to come to our regular meetings and meet some new friends. On the second Friday of each month we have free meetings and invite MPs, local councillors, local businesses, anyone able to speak on issues that affect older people, to come and talk to us. These meetings are held in the Wolseley Trust Community Building (next to Sheila’s Café in Wolseley Road), behind the Co-op just down from Milehouse traffic lights going towards St Budeaux. These meetings start 10.30am and end at 1pm, many buses stop outside the Co-op and if you come by car parking is usually available. We also have regular social meetings and would like to advise everyone that these will now be held at the Oak Villa Sports & Social Club in Ferndale Road, Plymouth (PL2 2EL) just down the road from Weston Mill Cemetery.

The No 13 Target Travel bus stops quite near it, and there is a large car park virtually next door to the hall.

These meetings are from 2pm to 4pm and we supply a very good buffet and as with all of our meetings we do have a raffle. Members of our group have free access but non-members will be asked to pay £2.

Anyone intending to come regularly to these meetings would find it more economical to pay the £12 single £20 double annual membership fee, and would also be eligible to take advantage of our subsidised taxi scheme (£2 each way). Members are also able to enjoy our regular meetings when we have short mat bowls, darts and other activities, and come to the two meals out every year. So anyone looking for good company and interesting meetings and would like more information please contact the Secretary Mrs Margaret Williams 01752 350498 or email tomag42@ hotmail.co.uk Performance Training (5-25s) Barbican Theatre’s dance and theatre workshops enable young people to build their confidence and learn new skills and techniques alongside professionals. Visit www.barbicantheatre.co.uk or call 01752 267131.

Play-writing, Performing, & Creative Writing The Playwriters Organisation meets on Monday nights (6-8pm) for Creative Writing & Acting, Wednesday

Plymouth Play Association For hire of resources for play, recycling scrapstore and arts and crafts. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday 10am-2pm, Thursday 10am-7pm.

Details 01752 256633.

Every autumn a team of Plymouth Soroptimists meet up to fill shoe boxes with gifts for boys and girls in hospitals and orphanages in Moldova.

This year 52 shoe boxes were wrapped in Christmas paper and filled with toiletries, hats, scarves, gloves, stationery, games and toys. The Mustard Seed Relief Mission collect boxes from organisations like Soroptimist International as well as schools, churches and individuals.

They transport around 40,000 boxes each year to children in Eastern Europe under the banner of ‘Love in a Box’.

Plymouth Soroptimist Lorraine Gillings said: “Our members are keen to support this really worthwhile cause. We love to know that some under privileged children will have their very own Christmas parcel to open at this special time of year.”

nights(6-8pm) for Acting & Theatre Production, Friday (10.15am-12.30pm) for Play-writing & Creative Writing.

All sessions are at the Playwriters mini-theatre above The Noah’s Ark, Courtney St (behind WHSmith).

Contact on 01752786777 for more details or go to www.playwriters.org.

Plymouth Archers Tuesday and Friday Archers who are registered with Archery GB are very welcome to come along. We run taster and beginner’s sessions throughout the year and have very good indoor and outdoor facilities at Stoke Damerel Community College. For more information visit www.plymoutharchers.co.uk or contact the chairman on 01752 784051 mobile 07443432375.

The club is open to anyone over the age of 10 and the school has very good disability access. We also arrange social activities throughout the year.

Sessions take place between 7pm and 9pm.

Plymouth Petanque Club A friendly club and a great way to be active for people of any age and ability. We meet for social games every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons throughout the year. Average attendance is about 25 -30 players.

These sessions are suitable for new players as we play to basic rules with the emphasis on fun, and we always stop halfway through for tea and biscuits (or cake for celebrations!) and a chat. We play at Brickfields Sports Centre and further information can be found on our newly updated website. www. plymouthpetanque.org.uk Plymouth Karate Academy Various dates Based in Faraday Mill Cattedown the club is managed

by Sensei Stuart Hick (4thDan), Sensei Jon Eaton (3rdDan) and Senpai Luke Irving (2ndDan). With more than 45 years combined experience all of the instructors are DBS checked, and teach Shotokan karate. Tuesday /Thursday Kids only Karate class 6.15- 7pm; Tuesday/Thursday Adult Beginners Intermediate - Advanced from 7pm onwards ; Saturday Morning class Kids Karate class 10am onwards. For more info: Stuart Hick 07970379268 or stuart.hick@ plymouthkarateacademy.co.uk

Plymouth Handball Club Thursdays Between 6pm and 7pm at Plymouth Life Centre.

Come and play an Olympic sport. A fun/recreational session for adults 18+. All levels and abilities welcome. Session is £3 (1st session free) Contact Dave 07983605639, Facebook Plymouth Handball Club, email plymouthhandballclub@hotmail.com Plymouth Musical Activities Club Thursdays A music group for young people aged 9-18 supported by volunteer staff members. At Pmac we teach flute, clarinet, drums, keyboards, singing and guitar. Meet every Thursday at Courtlands School in Eggbuckland from 7.15pm to 9.15pm. The charge is just £1 a week and people of all abilities are welcome. The group plays at lots of different venues and events throughout the year such as Devonport Playhouse, Lord Mayor’s day, Eden Project and many more. If you are interested in joining please call our treasurer Angela fuller on 01752 773482 or check out the Pmac website www.plymouthmac.co.uk Plymouth Numismatic Society Third Tuesday each month 7:30pm Coin collection and study can be an absorbing and rewarding pastime. New members are welcomed to informal meetings to share interest and knowledge of coins, providing the opportunity to give talks and presentations on any aspect of numismatics. This can range from studies of coins in historical, cultural or artistic context, to acquisitions, valuations and investment. Or members can just listen, learn and enjoy the company. Contact Bryan on 01752 480394 for more details and current location of meetings.

Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group Second Thursday of the month The Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group aims to offer friendship and support to anyone who is affected

by Lymphoma (Hodgkins or Non Hodgkins Disease), whether patient (past or present), carer, family member or friend, and meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Derriford Health and Wellbeing Centre from 3pm to 4.30 pm. For information, please call Pam on 01752 785094 or Scott on 01752 661035

Plymouth and District Advanced Motorists Group Monthly meetings on the third Monday of each month at the United Reformed Church Hall, Powisland Drive, Derriford. The meeting begins at 7.30p.m. with doors opening at seven. Guest speaker each month. Details 01752 405926 Plymouth Bridge Club We meet for sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings at 7pm, or Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 1pm. It is thought that learning a foreign language or playing bridge is conducive to maintaining a healthy brain. The former is difficult whilst the latter is much easier. We also offer teaching for beginners and intermediates either Monday mornings at 10.15am or Thursday evenings at 7pm. Why don’t you call Steven Lacey on 07990 521570 or email admin@plymouthbridge.co.uk and come along and join our friendly and conveniently situated members owned club, just off Mutley Plain.

Plymouth Magic Circle Every second Thursday We meet the second Thursday of every month at The Walrus, Athenaeum Street, from 7pm to 9pm. If you would like to join us, come along to a meeting. A list of current events is at www.plymouthmagiccircle.co.uk Plymouth Children’s Theatre Workshop Saturdays A theatre company for children and young people aged 6 to 18. Try your hand at performing, set design and construction, costumes and props, stage make up and much more. St Bartholomew’s Church Saturdays 1 till 4. Tots 3 - 5 years 12 till 1. www.plymouthchildrenstheatreworkshop.co.uk or 07760467857 or see our Facebook page Plymouth Philatelic Society First Wednesday of every month St. Edwards Hall, Home Park Avenue, Peverell from 7pm to 9pm. For details contact David on 01752 402981.

Plymouth Radio Club Second Tuesday of every month.

The Plymouth Radio Club meets second Tuesday of every month at the Weston Mill Oak Villa social Club, Situated in Ferndale Road, Weston Mill, Plymouth.

Commencing 7.30 pm. For all licenced Radio Amateurs and anyone interested in amateur radio. For those wishing to obtain a licence, email pippa117@hotmail. co.uk or telephone 07815542477.

Plymouth West Country Embroiderers Various dates Started in 1972. A friendly group of enthusiastic needleworkers who enjoy sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. Trainees (age 8-15) meet first Saturday each month from 11am to 3pm. Adults meet on second Thursday and fourth Saturday each month from 10.30am. We welcome experts and beginners of all ages. Contact Mary 01752 200047 for details.

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• continued from page 25 Plymouth Woodturners Third Friday of the month Meet at Pilgrim Church, St Levan Road at 7pm. Also demonstrate and sell at Otter Nurseries, Brixton, the first weekend of every month. New members always welcome, just turn up on the night.

Plymouth Meet Up Group First Tuesday of the month A social group for people with disabilities. Meets at Igrow Workspace 25 Phoenix Street from 4pm to 7pm for a chat and games and a short walk to the nearby Mount Pleasant pub for a meal. £2 for members and £3 for non-members. For more information call David on 017523 268777.

Plymouth U3A Second Monday of the month If you are retired, looking for new interests and to make new friends, then come along to the next monthly meeting of the Plymouth U3a and listen to our speaker. We meet at The Crowne Plaza from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Coffee available on arrival and an option to stay for a reasonably priced two course lunch in the restaurant. U3A (University of the 3rd Age) is organised and run by volunteers, there are over 60 groups to find out about and maybe join, creating opportunities for continuation of learning. A non member can attend as a visitor, further information can be obtained via the welcome and promotions desk on the day, or in advance by telephoning 01752 563551, joining on the day is also an option. We look forward to meeting you.

Plymouth Fishkeepers Society First and Second Wednesday of the Month. 8pm at the Hyde Park Social Club. If you are interested in the hobby of keeping tropical fish and want to learn more, then why not come along to one of our meetings.

Interests among members are diverse, and there is without doubt someone in the society who can answer questions covering most aspects of the hobby. The society caters for newcomers to people who have been in the hobby for a long time. Just bought your first fish tank? Then Plymouth Fishkeepers Society is the place for you.

Plymouth & District Egyptology Society First Saturday of the month We are a society of some 50 members whose passion is all things related to Ancient Egypt. Between the months of September of one year to May of the next, we meet on the first Saturday of each of those months, including Day Schools, and long weekend visits to UK and European cities to view Museum Egyptology Exhibitions, enjoying the local sights etc. The Society meets at the The Quaker House on Mutley Plain. Timings 2 pm until 4.30 pm for a normal lecture. Contact Details: janis. naylor@aol.co.uk Pray Plymouth Every Wednesday morning Organised by Churches Together in Plymouth from 7am to 8am at Open Doors Language School, 14-15, Woodland Terrace Lane, Greenbank, Plymouth.

Breakfast from 8am to 9am. Details 01752 249187.

Plymouth Community Choir Monday Evenings Meet at Salvation Army Congress Hall, Armada Way, Plymouth from 7pm to 9pm. New members are welcome, just come along for a free taster session at the beginning of the term, or contact the choir leader.

Terms are 12 weeks long and we sing a variety of music such as gospel, contemporary, sacred, world folk, pop, funky bass lines etc. No previous experience is necessary and you don’t need to be able to read music as we learn ‘by ear’ and repetition. Come and give us a try and see what you think! Our choir leader is Sarah Pennington and she can be contacted on 01392 437792 or by email plymouthcommunitychoir@ gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you!

Plymouth Cycling Touring Club Meet Sundays for a leisure cycle ride. For our latest rides list and meet time/place see www.plymouthctc. co.uk or contact Graham Black 01752 606650 or Andy Prideaux 01752 345170 for more information.

Plymouth Die-Cast Model Collectors Club First Wednesday of the month A club for anyone interested in or a collector of old toys, Dinky, Corgi, Tinplate etc. Meetings are quite informal, any club business is discussed along with a good gossip over a cup of tea or coffee. The meetings are held at the Jan Cutting Centre, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth from 7pm - 9pm. New members are always made very welcome with no charge for a first visit.

For further details or information please contact Paul Simmons, telephone 01752 846250, or check out the Club web site www.plymouthdiecastclub.com.

Plans for Merchant Navy Monument on The Hoe

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Plymouth Clarion Choir (Male Voice) Tuesdays Rehearsals between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Crownhill Methodist Church Hall with break in between for refreshments. Nice friendly atmosphere and a variety of music sung. Why not come along and see what it is all about. Musical director Catherine Davies, accompanist Olga Drougaleva. For details call Darell Jago on 01752 266434.

Plymouth School of Aikido Non-profit well-respected community based Martial Arts club founded over 35 years ago. Classes at Woodview Learning Campus (off Lancaster Gardens, Whitleigh) on Mondays and Coombe Dean School, Elburton, Plymstock on Fridays. Times: 7- 8pm Juniors, 7-9pm Adults. Aikido is a Japanese Martial Art suitable for both Men and Women learning and working together. Enjoyable, interesting, useful, physical, family-friendly activity with Child Safeguarded/DBS Nationally qualified Instructors leading to recognised gradings appropriate for students of all ages 7yrs to 70yrs. Fees with concessions; excellent value. Quality equipment including clothing available for purchase at non-profit prices. Checkout www.plymouthaikido. co.uk or Facebook Page. Contact Tre or David Worsley 403325, or Phil Smith 219355 for more information.

Artist’s impression of the proposed monument

Plans for the creation of a Merchant Navy Monument on The Hoe have moved a step nearer.

The Plymouth Merchant Navy Monument Fund charity has submitted a planning application for the statue and hopes that it will be sculpted and erected during the spring next year and formally unveiled on Merchant Navy Day in September 2019.

This would be followed in 2020 with a formal dedication as part of the Mayflower 400 celebrations.

The Fund was launched three years ago with a target of £150,000 to commission, build and erect a monument. Over 80 per cent of the target had been raised by the summer of this year, so the charity felt confident in submitting their plans.

The plan is to site the monument to the south of the Royal Navy War Memorial and to the west of the Armada Monument.

The monument will be dedicated to ‘Those men and women of all nationalities who serve in, or have served in, the British Merchant Navy or Fishing Fleets in times of both peace and war.’

An existing Merchant Navy memorial set in a wall opposite the Mayflower Steps, will remain. It is, however, small and difficult to find.

Its location has created difficulties in the past when Remembrance Day and Merchant Navy Day services have been held there.

Plymouth & District Koi Keepers Society First Wednesday of the month If you are interested in koi keeping, or thinking of building a pond and want to learn more, then why not come along to one of our meetings. We have guest speakers, presentations, visits to club member’s ponds before finishing the evening back at the clubhouse. At the weekends trips are arranged to visit other koi club’s ponds and koi shows and these are excellent days out. Meet at 7.30 pm in the lounge of the Tamar View Community Centre, Miers Close, Barne Barton, Plymouth. New members always welcome.

For more details of club activities please visit www. plymouthanddistrictkoikeeperssociety.org or ring Sandra Crocker on 01752 210118.

Plymouth Pisces Swimming Club for all Disabilities Sundays 11.15am to 1.15pm at Plymouth Life Centre.

Adults £2.50 per session, children £2 per session.

Under 5s free. Annual membership £5.

Plym Ramblers First and third Sunday in the month A well estab lished walking organisation offering regular walks by experienced leaders all within 20 miles of Plymouth. The group meets every first and third Sunday in the month and also hold interesting social events. For details contact the secretary on 344048 or the chairman on 405132. Plym Ramblers have now published their walking book “On the beaten track 4” the fourth book in a popular series of local walks.

Plymouth Inter Varsity Club We are looking for lively, interesting people who want variety in their social lives and would like to mix with others in a friendly, local social group run by its members, for its members. We enjoy a wide range of activities eg meals out, cycling, themed party nights, walking, canoeing, theatre, reading group and weekends away. Want to know more? You can go to our website www.plymouthivc.org , look at what we do and complete an enquiry or contact 01752 550492 or 07810065982.

Boys’ Brigade Various dates and Venues For more information visit www.boys-brigade.org.uk or Facebook, Boy’s Brigade Plymouth. 1st Plymouth

- Salisbury Road Baptist Church (Fridays); 2nd Plymouth - Ridgeway Methodist Church (Mondays); 4th Plymouth - St Judes Church (Wednesdays); 5th Plymouth - Mount Gould Methodist Church (Fridays); 7th Plymouth - Pennycross Methodist Church (Fridays); 8th Plymouth - Ford Baptist Church (Wednesdays).

New members very welcome. Age groups: Anchors (5-8); Juniors (8-11) and Company/Seniors (11-18). The Boys’ Brigade can help your church in its mission to children and young people.

5th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls Association We meet at Mount Gould Methodist Church, term time, and are looking to recruit both boys and girls aged 5-8yrs (6.30pm-7.45pm), 8-11yrs (6.30-8pm) and 11-18yrs (6.30-9pm). Our programme is very varied and includes craftwork, cookery, games, computer work, interactive challenges, sports competitions, sponsored fundraising and much more plus the year ending event - summer camp (8yrs+). Many of the skills learnt here can help prepare them for adult life. Interested - then come along to the church on Friday or contact Hugh Porter, 01752 667513, or email porterbb@blueyonder.co.uk 7th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association Fridays We meet at Pennycross Methodist Church in term time, Anchors (5-8 years) between 6.15pm and 7.15pm; Juniors (8-11 years) from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and Seniors (12-18 years) between 7pm and 9.45pm. There is a full programme of activities including crafts, games, drama, music, cookery, interactive challenges, national sport competitions and much more. The year culminates in a week-long summer camp. Our programme enables youngsters to learn many various skills and prepares them for adult life. Simply go along on Fridays to find out more or visit 7plymouth. boys-brigade.org.uk Plymouth Writers Circle Tuesdays Do you have a problem with plotting or characterisation. The Plymouth Writers Circle meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 10am to 12 noon at the Plymstock Community Centre (except in the summer holidays).

Plymouth Hockey Club Sundays Plymouth Hockey Club is the oldest junior club in the city and has recently achieved the highest award for organisation and safeguarding. The club is operated by parents for all children and young people. The club trains every Sunday between 10am - 1pm at Bull Point ATP. The club cater for young people from 4-16 years and no previous experience is required. The first 6 weeks are free to new members and everyone who trains gets to play. For more information, please see the website at www.plymouthhockeyclub.org.uk or contact Rob on 07861 250682.

Port of Plymouth Canoe Association Mondays , Thursdays and Saturdays May until September. Offering various introductory, taster and child ( 8-11 ) sessions throughout the spring and summer. For more information please contact Tracy Jones 01752 510653 email intro@ppca-club.org.uk or visit www.ppca-canoe-club.org.uk RAF Association (Plymouth Branch) After a very successful celebration of the 100th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Air Force throughout the UK, by all RAF Association Branches, it is now time to settle down and get on with local duties! Dates for the diary are as follows: Branch meeting on Wednesday Nov 28, starting at 10.30am followed by a coffee break at 11am, held at Raffles Club, Ermington Terrace, Mutley Plymouth. The Branch Christmas Lunch will be held on Sat Dec 8 at 12.30noon in the club three courses, entertainment, free draw. Cost £15pp contact tele no: 01752 268803 for details. Finally the branch AGM will be on Wed March 6 2019 at 12noon, followed by lunch at Raffles club. We look forward to meeting members old and new. Please help to keep the branch going.

RASC/RCT/RLC Assoication (Plymouth Branch) The final branch meeting for 2018 will be held on Tuesday Nov 13 (at 8pm), at Army Reserve Centre, Brest Road, Derriford, Plymouth. The first meeting for 2019 will be the branch annual general meeting on Tuesday Jan 8 same time, same venue. The Corps Association Annual Dinner, will be held on Friday Jan 25 (7.00/7.30) for details Tel: 01752 769169. Please show your support for the continuance of the Plymouth Branch of the Association.

Road to Recovery Group of Alcoholics Anonymous Open Meeting every Friday at St Matthias Church Hall, North Hill. Doors open 6.30pm. Meeting 7pm- 9pm. If you think you have a problem with alcohol, you are welcome to attend. Family, friends, health professionals etc also welcome. Contact: Matt 07766 006 153 or Jo 07918 141715. AA Helpline: 0800 9177 650.

Snack ‘N’ Chat Tuesdays Friendship group for the bereaved and those who live alone. From 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Coffee Corner in the Minster Church of St Andrew in the city centre. A community project run by two trained Counsellors and two trained listeners. Come and enjoy coffee, tea and home made cake and talk through how things are for you. Only 50p per session.

Solaris Yoga Enjoy vital relaxation, strengthening and toning muscles. Pregnancy yoga, mum and baby yoga and adult yoga held at Plymouth Swallows, St Andrew’s Cross, Church of the Holy Spirit Southway, Crownhill Fort and Jump. Please call Shilpa on 0771 1899 530 for times of classes.

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Soundhouse Brass and Soundhouse Youth Brass Academy Thursdays Want to play with one of the finest Brass Bands in Devon then why not come along and give us a try.

We also have a thriving Youth Band for younger players which is supported by Plymouth Youth Music Service. Both groups practice at The Soundhouse, Torbridge High School, Estover on Thursday evenings (Juniors 6p.m. to 7.30p.m. and Seniors 7.30-9.45p.m) Come along any evening, visit our website www. soundhousebrass.co.uk or ring Alan 01752844108 (Senior Band) or Garry 0744618977 (Youth Band) for further details.

City College brings NASA Challenge to Plymouth

Tea Morning Wednesdays Plymouth Unitarian Cafe 10am - 12 noon. Why not drop in for a bit of relaxation, a cuppa, knitting, a game, some reading or colouring? Or just have a sit down and rest. Dementia friendly. Tea/coffee and a biscuit 60p. All money taken goes to our charities for the year, Plymouth Samaritans and the Smile Train The Specials Wednesday Club For adults with learning disabilities. YMCA Plymouth, Honicknowle Lane from 6pm to 8pm £3 per week.

Further information www.sopd.org.uk The Arts Society South Devon We are part of The Arts Society, the National Association, and have about 250 members. We hold monthly evening lectures on a wide range of Arts topics, occasional morning lectures, Study Days, Tours, Visits and Concert visits. We would be pleased to welcome new members and introductory guest visits are available. See website for programme information and other details (www. theartssocietysouthdevon.org.uk) or contact Jim Stevens, Membership Secretary (jst74@hotmail. co.uk).

Tai Chi Beginners Classes Various dates Established in Plymouth since 1995. A friendly group covering all aspects of Tai Chi training for health and well being. Tai Chi is a gentle way to exercise and build strength. For those more keen, it is a complete form of body and mind martial arts system from ancient China suitable for all ages 5 to 95! To get more information, please drop into the class held every Tuesday 6.45pm at Mount Street Primary School, Greenbank, or any other class advertised on www.wutan-plymouth.co.uk. Tel. 07949 839088 Tamar Valley Westerners Sundays Established for more than 20 years, Tamar Valley Westerners run a country and western evening and line dancing at the Hyde Park Social Club from 8pm to 11pm. Live entertainment every week with a brilliant atmosphere, all types of dancing and bar for refreshments. Members £5, non members £6. All welcome.

The Pythagorean Society First Friday of the month held at Plymouth Natural Health & Healing Centre, Outland Road, PL2 3PY. 7

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard 999 or 112 Police general enquiries 101 Derriford Hospital 08451 558155 Electricity, Western Power Distribution 0800 678 3105 Gas, Transco (Gas Emergency Service) 0800 111999 Water, South West Water 0344 3462020 Environment Agency (Emergency) 0800 807060 RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Helplines

South West Chamber Choir Wednesdays Marjon Chapel 7.30 to 9.30 pm. We are a friendly auditioned choir of 25 to 30 singers specialising in unaccompanied singing, with a programme of madrigals, partsongs and sacred works. We give four concerts annually as well as a weekend of sung services at a cathedral each July. A reasonable standard of sight-reading is needed to join. We welcome enquiries. www.swcchoir.org.uk Shotokan Karate Club Shotokan Karate club in Devonport High school for Girls on Monday and Friday evenings for all ages and grades starting at 6pm. This is an authentic Japanese art, taught in the same disciplined manner instilling personal responsibility for actions, promoting confidence and self esteem. Karate taught in this environment is deemed to be beneficial for all ages and genders. All Instructors DBS checked, safeguarding and first aid trained.Contact club secretary Steve on 07518471142 or Colin on 07968061887. Shotokan Karate Club in Eggbuckland Community college Drama studio on Wednesday evenings from 7.00 to 8.30 for all ages and grades. . An authentic Japanese art, all Instructors DBS checked, safeguarding and first aid trained. Contact Georgina on 07807184279. Children’s Shotokan Karate Class in St Budeaux parish church hall, specifically for ages 7 to 12 years old, parents can train alongside their children in a relaxed and friendly environment.

All Instructors DBS checked, safeguarding and first aid trained. Saturday mornings 10am to 11am Contact Georgina on 07807184279

USEFUL NUMBERS

City College Plymouth is the first further education college in the country to host the NASA Space Apps Challenge, where innovative solutions are found to interstellar problems.

Aspiring coders, scientists, technologists, and space enthusiasts came together to address the challenges we face on Earth and in space in a two-day international hackathon, which took place in the College’s Regional Centre of Excellence for STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths).

In just 48-hours, five teams developed their solutions to selected challenges. From creating a time capsule to educating extra-terrestrial civilisations about human culture, everyone involved had to use their skills and imaginations to address these ‘out of this world’ problems.

Special guest speaker at the event, Dr Samantha Lavender, Director at Pixalytics, an independent company specialising in Earth observation, said: “At Pixalytics our philosophy is based on the belief that scientific research and innovation are vital to the future development of both our collective knowledge and our society as a whole.

“The NASA Space Apps Challenge fits in with this philosophy as the work that everyone has been undertaking for the past two days can help explain, develop and enhance our understanding

pm – 9 pm. We have a different topic each month with a guest speaker, covering a wide range of esoteric subjects. Please see our website for details www.pythagoreansociety.wordpress.net or email mail@pythagoreansociety.net The Plymouth Regional Head & Neck Cancer Support Group Our group is specifically aimed at head and neck patients, their partners and/or carers. Our support group will also welcome anyone who wishes to join us for whatever reason. You don’t have to be a cancer patient to join us but those cancer patients without a support group of their own will be made especially welcome. Due to the nature of this particular disease, most of our members are from the older age group.

We meet up once a month and take a trip out somewhere away from the clinical environment. We might also be able to help with transport if necessary.

Please contact: Geoff Read on (01752) 563 800 or email Secretary.PlymouthHNC@gmail.com Watercolour Art Sessions for Adults Thursdays Beginner and experienced artists welcome.

Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre Thursdays 10am to 12 noon. The Burrator Inn, Dousland, nr Yelverton Tuesdays 10am to 12 noon. Easy car parking at both venues. For more information call Janet on 07742 983311 Yankee Yoga Various days All abilities yoga classes set to sweet tunes.

Tuesdays 5pm @ The Art of Dance (Mutley Plain) 8pm @ Coombe Dean School; Plymstock/Elburton; Wednesdays 6pm @ Merlin Fitness (Crownhill); Fridays 7.30pm Special Class - Yoga for Athletes @ Taurus Gym (Mutley Plain); Saturdays 10am Special Class: Yoga Sculpt @ Merlin Fitness (Crownhill).

Contact Emily on 07478 257080.

of the world, but it also offers opportunity and hope for our future.

“The South West, and Plymouth in particular, has so much potential - being a digital hub sandwiched between the natural harbour of Plymouth Sound and the green hills of Dartmoor.

The City’s proud maritime heritage and thriving marine industry make it a great place to study global issues and solve them. It has been fantastic to see so many amazing and innovative solutions to complex problems - it goes to show there is a lot of talent in our city.”

City College Plymouth’s STEM Hub officer, Andy Robinson-Noades, said: “At City College Plymouth we promote the importance of science, technology, engineering and maths, so it was fantastic to see so many people come together, regardless of their background or skill level, to explore these subjects.

“Events like these open up the range of possibilities in STEM and encourage people to consider a career they may have never thought of before.” At the conclusion of the event, teams presented their solutions to a panel of judges with the best of the best progressing to compete on a global level. The two teams that progressed were ‘Geeks & Gamers’ who created an immersive simulation of potential Mars missions, and ‘Applied Sciences’ who designed a suit to measure the vital signs of future Mars colonisers.

National Trust Plymouth St Peter’s Lutheran Church, 19 Larkham Lane, Plympton. Meetings are held on the last Wednesday of the month at 2pm. For more information regarding membership please contact Judy Unitt on 01752 290437 or email judy.ntt@gmail.com Plymouth and District Parkinson’s Group Gentle exercise led by a fully trained physiotherapist every week at four locations. Tuesdays 10.30-12 noon at St Bartholomew’s Church Hall Milehouse contact 556651; Tuesdays 10.15-11.45 at Plymstock United Church Plymstock Road: contact 402340; Wednesdays 10.30-12 noon at Mount Gould Methodist Church Hall: contact 560289; Wednesdays 1.15pm-2.45pm at Emmanuel Church Hall Mannamead: contact 768890.

A monthly meeting is held on the second Tuesday of every month at Emmanuel Church Hall; Monthly Drop In with Dance Session: Contact 55665; Carers coffee meet first Monday of the month: contact 704075.

Other activities include lunches, outings, and an annual holiday Dartmoor Rambling Club The Dartmoor Rambling Club is a long established Rambling Club based in Plymouth. We have a regular programme of walks on alternate Wednesdays and at some weekends. The Wednesday walks generally use public transport from Plymouth City Centre to the start of the walk. Wednesday walks are usually about 8 to 10 miles on Dartmoor or on the coast and are taken at a pace to suit the participants. The weekend walks may use cars for transport and may go a little further afield. We are a small group looking to welcome new members. Our annual subscription is just £5. We can email you our programme if you email johnskinner@tinyworld or more details can be obtained by phoning John (Chairman) on 01752 782454, John (Treasurer) on 01752 218476 or Ron (member) on 01752 674230

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 Crossline Listening Service 01752 666777 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Association 07410 977598 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Drug Addicts Anonymous: Helpline 07818260811 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 116 123 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 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 Reel Cinema 01752 225553 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 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 Shopper, 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.

28 December 2018

There But Not There –

Plymouth’s Tommy projections

Photos: Help for Heroes

In the 100th year of the Armistice, a haunting reminder of those who gave their lives in WW1 is being projected onto the former Civic Centre in Plymouth city centre and will appear in Plymouth’s Illuminate Festival.

Help for Heroes and There But Not There – the campaign by the charity Remembered – are projecting a giant image of a ‘Tommy’, the nickname for a WW1 soldier, to galvanise the public to buy 10-inch Perspex silhouette Tommy replicas to help today’s veterans.

The figures can be ordered from www. therebutnotthere.org or from any WH Smith high street store.

Money raised from their sale will go to military charities Help for Heroes, The Royal Foundation, Walking With The Wounded, Combat Stress, Project Equinox and the

Commonwealth Graves Foundation.

Between November 5 and 10 Tommy was projected onto the former Civic Centre tower block and he will also appear in the Illuminate Festival at the Royal William Yard from November 22 to 25.

The silhouettes were designed by conceptual photographer and installation artist Martin Barraud, who first created the Perspex men representing the Fallen. Fiftyone transparent seated military figures, representing those lost in the war, were installed in Penshurst Church in Kent over the Remembrance period in 2016.

There But Not There has three aims: to

@PlymChronicle commemorate those who died in the First World War, educate all generations to understand what led to the deaths of 888,246 British and Commonwealth Service personnel and heal today’s veterans who are suffering from the mental and physical wounds of service through the sale of the Tommies.

Help for Heroes’ Plymouth Recovery Centre manager, Jock Easton, said: “Help for Heroes is incredibly proud to be one of the benefitting charities of this project. It commemorates the end of WW1 by educating about the sacrifice of those who have and continue to put their lives on the line for us and heal by giving them a second chance at life.

“We couldn’t have realised this project without the generosity of John Hibdige of JH-AV for supplying the projection equipment.

Our thanks also go to Plymouth City Council, Real Ideas Organisation, Urban Splash and 42 Commando for their help in making this a reality.”

John Hibdige from JH-AV, who supplied the kit and expertise to shine Tommy onto the Civic Centre, said: “There But Not There is an amazing project and it’s been our pleasure to be able to support Help for Heroes with the Plymouth projection.”

Tommy was projected from the Guildhall and a Plymouth City Council spokesman said they were glad to help: “As a military city we are aware of the good work carried out by our military charities. We were happy to be able to assist Help for Heroes and There But Not There to realise this projection to raise more money to help today’s veterans. Thanks to all our staff at the Guildhall who have helped this project take shape.”

Tommy will also be part of Plymouth’s Illuminate Festival being held at the Royal William Yard later in the month. Jenny Bishop from Real Ideas Organisation, which is behind this year’s Illuminate Festival, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Help for Heroes and have Tommy as part of this year’s Illuminate Festival. We work closely with the charity and have seen first-hand how support for today’s veterans can have positive impact on people’s lives.”

Hailey Cattle from Urban Splash, who now own the former Civic Centre, said: “We are delighted to support Help for Heroes and play our part in commemorating the 100th anniversary of Armistice. We hope that the Tommy projection, onto one of Plymouth’s most prominent landmarks in the heart of our City, created a huge amount of awareness for this exceptional charity.”

A Help for Heroes/Remembered Tommy was also present at Plymouth’s Remembrance Service on the Hoe on Sunday November 11.

There But Not There is the 2018 Armistice project for the charity Remembered.

Help for Heroes offers support throughout the year from its Recovery Centre in Plymouth and community locations across the South West. To get support or give support visit: www.helpforheroes.org.uk

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homes in Plympton and Plymstock 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 January edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Plympton and Plymstock will be published on December 7 with a copy deadline of November 26.

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December 2018

Previously the

Win an ‘Astroball’ party package for up to 15 people with Clip n’ Climb Plymouth See page 13 for details

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Plympton & Plymstock

Dartmoor Zoo announces appointment of new curator See page 3

ALSO INSIDE:

• Out and About • Community Job • Community Shop Directory • Cross Rhythms • Dial the Experts Experience

Dozens of Santas will be taking to the water at the Mount Batten Centre to raise funds for local charities • Full story and more pictures on page 10

Gym, Fitness Classes, Squash, Swimming Pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Jacuzzi, Tone Zone, Tennis & Table Tennis

Christmas Cracker Membership 2 consecutive weeks of inclusive membership only £25*

A happy, warm and friendly club,

Christmas Cracker Membership available from 1/12/18 to 7/1/19 Multiple purchases available.

Email: info@fortstamford.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply

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is welcome. gym | classes | squash | swimming | tone zone | spa | vibration plates

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