Plymouth Chronicle July East

Big improvement plans for key waterfront landmarks

Key landmarks across Plymouth’s waterfront are set to see big improvements as part of the National Marine Park’s ambition to encourage more people to use them.

Important heritage features at Tinside Pool, Mount Batten and the Garden Battery at Mount Edgcumbe Park will receive significant, but sensitive, makeovers designed to reinvigorate these amazing waterside locations and show off these stunning buildings and open them up to a new generation of users and uses, all thanks to National Lottery players.

A number of planning applications and listed building consents are being submitted over the coming weeks as part of an ambitious package of work that follows a year of talking and listening to families and communities across the city, history fans, nature and marine lovers and water enthusiasts. The projects are:

Tinside: Derelict parts of the iconic pool complex to be spruced up for a new era and range of uses:

The top deck – which is currently not used – to be transformed into an accessible, stylish public open space with café, events space, seating and landscaping

Internal and external alterations to the empty Edwardian building between the pool and Tinside Cove. This work is not just about providing disabled access, accessible changing facilities and kiosk, but will be a drop-in point for young people – with access to water-based activities and training. Given its location, these works will be water compatible, with flood mitigation features.

Mount Batten: Improvements for visitors to the Watersports and Activities Centre by modernising the interior, including upgrading the changing rooms, redesigning the foyer and café. As this is inside the building, it does not require planning permission, however the package also includes:

A planning application for improvements overlooking the water with terrace, seating – in front of the revamped café – and landscaping. scheduled monument consent for work at the foot of the 17th century artillery tower to repair, maintain and better landscaping with seating, paths and interpretation boards to encourage more people to enjoy this stunning Plymouth tower. The Garden Battery at Mount Edgcumbe Park: Inaccessible to the public for years, the battery was built as part of the Palmerston fort defences in the 1860s. It is described as is ‘a truly impressive building and a rare survival in terms of its

completeness and largely unaltered form.’

The proposal is to open up the battery which is next to the South West Coast Path through Listed building consent for two new entrances – made of steel – to allow public access to this coastal fort defence. The application includes internal staircases, internal alterations, resurfacing the saluting platform as well as interpretation panels, seating and landscaping.

The locations are designated gateway sites for the National Marine Park – meaning they will play a key role in the park’s vision to encourage people of all ages to enjoy Plymouth Sound – whether that’s in, on, under or by the water.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “These features play a huge part of our history and it’s only right that they are being looked at with fresh eyes to make sure they are part of our future.

“The National Marine Park team have been listening carefully to our residents, water lovers, families and community organisations before putting together these plans to make the most of these magnificent landmarks in new and exciting ways.”

Stuart McLeod of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re thrilled to hear about the positive plans to revive these buildings and spaces as part of the work of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

“These improvements will not only give these spaces a new lease of life but will also make them more accessible and useable for the communities they serve to benefit. The positive impact of this project both on Plymouth’s community and its economy is one of the many reasons we’re proud to support their vision.”

Rhys Jones, chief executive of Plymouth Active Leisure said: “We want a new wave of people enjoying Tinside – whether it’s at an event, enjoying the incredible view as well as learning to swim in or on the sea side of the pool. Thanks to the extensive conversations with swimmers of all kinds, potential users and partners we think these ideas strike the right balance for its future.”

Alex King, chief executive at Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre, said: “These projects are all about making sure residents and visitors can access the National Marine Park either on, in or by the water but in a way that benefits nature.

“They have been designed with sustainability at their heart and will be aiming to address climate change and increase biodiversity where ever possible.”

MOTORISTS WARNED OF DELAYS AND ROAD CLOSURE

Wales & West Utilities is working to upgrade the final section of gas pipes in the Plymstock Road area.

The work is part of a wider upgrade project, which started last year, and is essential to keep the gas flowing safely to heat and power local homes and businesses.

Wales & West Utilities has liaised with Plymouth City Council, and it has been agreed that traffic management will be in place between June 19 and July 7. This will involve a road closure on Oreston Road and two-way traffic lights on Plymstock Road. Motorists are advised to allow extra time for travel.

Wales & West Utilities David Murdoch is managing this work. He said: “While most of the gas network is underground and out

of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across the Plymouth area. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.

“We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future. We’ll have a team of gas engineers on site throughout the project to make sure our work is completed as safely and as quickly as possible while keeping disruption to a minimum.”

Plymouth’s economy sees huge benefits from international students who are studying at the city’s three universities, according to a recent study.

In 2021/22 there were around 1,180 international students at the higher education establishments, bringing an estimated economic benefit of £128.8 million.

The study by London Economics and partners revealed that the UK economy benefitted by £41.9 billion from international higher education students.

But it isn’t just the positive economic impact that international students bring. The report also stated that approximately 92 per cent of students lived outside of the EU, with China, India, Nigeria, and the USA being the highest number of international student enrolments in the UK.

International students bring a wealth of culture and diverse experiences which also benefit the UK, helping to foster a diverse environment, develop better intercultural understandings, and opening the door to new perspectives.

Plymouth Marjon University has welcomed international students from over 60 countries and has partnerships with 26 institutions

City economy’s £128m boost from overseas students

in 18 countries. Students can apply for a full programme of study or choose a short-stay study option for a term at the university. Degree programmes are typically shorter in the UK, meaning IHE students can graduate sooner.

Professor Ian Luke, deputy ViceChancellor with responsibility for international students at Plymouth Marjon University, said: “There is no doubting the positive impact international activity can have in terms of education inclusiveness, community and in-country development, social mobility, and improving job prospects.

“The cultural and social contribution that international students can make to a university, city, and region is significant. Here at Marjon, we work with international partners and students from across the globe and this helps us to inspire and prepare the University community to collaborate in a global society, benefitting from such collaboration and ensuring our graduates thrive.”

Artist’s impression of the new Tinside top deck café

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

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

Models and Railway Exhibition

Jun 17

Five model railway displays along with numerous built scale models kits including aircraft, sci-fi, ships and military vehicles. Plymouth Tothill Community Centre from 10am to 4pm. Traders will also be selling railway and modelling items. Tombola during the event and hot and cold food on sale. Disabled access and plenty of parking. Entrance fee: adults £2, family £5 and concessions £1. Children under 12 free.

Table Top Sale

June 17

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

Rehabilitation Triathlon

June 22

Hosted by the Royal Navy Recovery Centre Hasler on The Hoe. Over 200 participants from the UK Triservices and veterans will attend this event, along with International teams from the United States Marine Corps and Royal Netherlands Marine Corps. The swim will take place in the Tinside Lido and the cycle will consist of a time trial on rowing machines in a marquee positioned on the Hoe promenade. The allimportant Awards Ceremony will be held on the main stage on Plymouth Hoe.

Armed Forces Day

June 24

Plymouth Armed Forces Day, in association with Babcock, will be returning on Saturday June 24, with an exciting day for all the family to enjoy on Plymouth Hoe, and celebrate our military and all the great work they do. Armed Forces Day is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come along and show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving troops to reservists, veterans, cadets and their families. There will be activities for all the family to enjoy and get involved in, from exploring military vehicles and equipment, to tackling the Royal Marines obstacle course. Event starts at 10am and finishes at 10.30pm with a free evening concert.

Newspapers of the World

June 24 and 25

A display of newspapers of the world will be held on Saturday June 24 and Sunday June 25 at the Visitor Centre in Ford Park Cemetery. It will be open from 12.30pm to 3.30 pm. The historical newspapers will include ones of the Plymouth Blitz, old Plymouth, Royal events going back to the 19th century, the assassination of President Kennedy and more.

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir with Children from Fletewood School

June 24

The choir presents John Rutter’s The Sprig of Thyme and Andrew Carter’s Benedicite in The Minster Church of St Andrew, Plymouth at 3.30 pm. A cream tea is included in the price of the ticket. Tickets £20 in advance or £22 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, please visit plymouthphilchoir.org

Abba Tribute Night

June 24

Hosted by the Crowne Plaza Hotel, the Take a Chance on Us is a live Abba Tribute band. Two course dinner, DJ and drinks promotion on the night. For information and tickets call 01752 639900.

How to Keep Going

June 30

Plymouth Samaritans annual literary event will be held at the Copthorne Hotel, Armada Way, Plymouth from 9am to 5pm. Entitled How to Keep Going, the event will be a day of inspirational speakers who will share their journeys through life’s challenges. Authors include Beth Greenaway, Jessica Harrington, Floyd Steadman OBE and Michelle Thomas. Tickets £25 can be obtained from janetasherriff@btinternet.com

Grand Summer Fayre

July 1

St Boniface Church, St Budeaux from 10am to 12 noon. Delicious refreshments, stalls including gifts, bottles and tins, jams and chutney, home baked cakes, and more. Grand draw with lovely prizes, including a superb hamper. Admission 20p.

Coffee Morning

July 1

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon in aid of Water Aid. Books, cakes, raffle and more.

Summer Fair

July 1

Annual Summer Fair at Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road, Stoke. 11 am to 3pm, free entry.Variety of stalls and refreshments. To hire a stall, contact Marilyn at marilyngoldsbrough@hotmail.com

Victorian Symbolism

July 8 to Aug 26

Ford Park Cemetery’s Visitor Centre hosts the latest exhibition featuring Victorian symbolism. As opening times vary, details can be obtained by phoning 01752 665442.

70th Anniversary Celebrations

July 8 and 9

Morice Baptist Church, Ham Drive celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the laying of the Foundation Stone on its present site. Saturday 2pm to 4pm Fun Afternoon with bouncy castle, fun activities and cream teas. Sunday 10.45am Thanksgiving Service followed by lunch. For further information please contact Chris on 01752 364513.

Plymouth Triathlon

July 9

Plymouth Triathlon Club’s annual Triathlon race at Mount Edgcumbe Country House and Park. There is a distance for everybody. From a Super Sprint to a Middle Distance and everything in between. Also the kids can race in their respective age categories on a great course. Don’t you fancy a Tri? Then why not enter the Aquathlon or Aquabike. Bring the family too, as this location is not only a stunning place to race, but great for spectators as well. Visit www. plymouthtriclub.com to enter.

Summer Fair

July 15

Ford Park Cemetery from 11am to 2.30pm. There will be a number of stalls and bargains available.

Stoke Village Fun Day

July 16

The fun day in Stoke is back organised bye The Village Hub, Stoke Village Fun Day and Diverse Events. Activities in Blockhouse Park and in the village centre. Stalls, music, food and entertainment for all the family from 11am to 4pm.

Plymouth Arts Club Exhibition

Aug 1 to Aug 6

In aid of the Tower Repair Fund at the Church of the Ascension Church Hall, The Lawns, Crownhill from 10am to 4pm. Details at www.plymouthartsclub.co.uk

Love Summer Festival

Aug 4 to Aug 6

Now in its 12th year the Love Summer Festival returns to Newnham Park in Plympton. The family friendly festival offers three stages featuring cutting edge music, children’s area, clamping and great food. Caravan and camper friendly. For details visit www. lovesummerfestival.com/festival-2023/

Mount Edgcumbe Classic Car Shows and Summer

Fayre

Aug 6

Attracting over 900 cars of all marques, this is an event not to be missed for the budding petrolhead! But that’s not all – there is something for everybody during the day: over 100 stalls selling crafts, jewellery, clothes and much more, food a nd drink outlets

including a licensed bar, bouncy castles, fairground rides and family friendly entertainment from jazz music to magicians.

Big Tribute Festival

Aug 11 to Aug 13

After the huge success of 2022, the BIG Tribute Festival 2023 is back bringing more of the BEST UK Tribute acts over three days at Central Park under the 4,500 capacity tent and larger site location for 2023. Friday is family-friendly focused with fairground rides and bouncy castles. Tickets and information at www. bigtribfest.co.uk

British Firework Championships

Aug 16 and 17

The beloved British Firework Championships return to The Hoe providing one of the best free events in the South West. Tens of thousands of people will flock to the waterfront to watch three companies compete for the title on each night.

Summer Exhibition

Aug 16 to Aug 20

Plymouth Arts Club exhibition at The Lead Works, Rendle Street, Plymouth from 10am to 4pm. Details at www.plymouthartsclub.co.uk

Seth Lakeman

Aug 26

Devon’s own popular singer songwriter is accompanied by Benji Kirkpatrick and Alex Hart at The Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus. Concert starts at 8pm. Tickets fromwww.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sethlakeman-tickets-598514873097

West End Carnival

Aug 26

Plymouth City Centre Company is hosting the Carnival with a full day of carnival fun for all the family. There will be a parade at 11am and lots of music and entertainment throughout the day.

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

The ever-popular British Fireworks Championships are back in August

PLYMOUTH’S GREENER TRAVEL CHALLENGE

Plymouth City Council and Sustrans are challenging people to try cleaner, greener, healthier ways of getting around the city.

The Big Plymouth Travel Challenge encourages people to leave the car at home for more of their everyday journeys and choose active options – for example walking, cycling, scooting or skating – as a way of staying fit and healthy, saving money and helping to improve local air quality.

Everyone who registers will get online access to lots of useful hints, tips and support and a personalised dashboard where they can log their progress and even set themselves targets, such as calories burned, miles travelled or carbon emissions cut.

As an extra incentive, there are prizes up for grabs each week and at the end of the month-long challenge, including 200-minute Beryl Bike ‘bundles’, shopping vouchers and a Laserlight Core bike light.

It’s all part of the council’s ‘active travel prescribing’ programme, where its transport and public health teams work with partners including Sustrans, as well as health providers, link workers within GP practices and health and wellbeing hubs and community groups to get more people enjoying active travel as a form of exercise.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “Everyone knows the importance of regular physical activity but we don’t always think of the daily journeys we make as a way of achieving this. Even if we just walk or cycle for a few of those trips – or part of them –it can make a big difference to our health and overall wellbeing.

“It also helps to reduce the amount of traffic on our roads, which is good for everyone. I gave up my car five years ago and haven’t looked back. We want to promote active travel not just for leisure but also as a safe and practical option for getting around the city.”

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, added: “We are all aware of the impact of climate change and the more active journeys we each choose to make, the more we are helping to reduce harmful emissions and improve the local environment for everyone.

“This challenge is a great, fun way for us to encourage people to give walking, wheeling and cycling a go and to promote all the support that is available, such as free cycle training, bike maintenance and led rides.”

Everyone who lives or works in Plymouth is welcome to sign up to the challenge and you can go solo or team up with friends, family or colleagues.

Just head to the website at plymouth. getmeactive.org.uk, register and start logging journeys!

The challenge for the whole of June but residents can register at any point. For more details visit the website or email plymotion@plymouth.gov.uk

W E ARE RE C RUITIN G

Since 1965, Princess Yachts has been manufacturing yachts to international acclaim. Today our shipyards cover an area of over 1 1 million square feet across six sites in Plymouth, employing over 3,000 people

Whether you are beginning your career or looking to take the next step, your skills to the highest level.

We currently have vacancies for a variety of rewarding positions at all levels, including Carpentry, Engineering, Welding, Fabricating and more

Benefits include

• Competitive pay

• Pension contributions

• Employee discounts platform

• 4 and 3 day working week

• Training

• Occupational health

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Flexible shift patterns and more

Discover our range of career opportunities and apply at www.princessyachts com/careers or scan the QR code below

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can imagine”

MOOR HEARING

We

Hearing tests

Hearing aids

Microsuction wax removal

Custom made moulds.

Noise protection

“I’ve advertised in the Plymouth Chronicle many times because I know it will reach a wide audience of Plymouth residents. The staff are always friendly and helpful and prices are affordable for a local independent organisation like ours.” CM To find out more about advertising in the Plymouth Chronicle and reach over 90,000 homes call our sales team on 01752 225623

Envy celebrates 20 years of trading at The Broadway

Local hair salon Envy has celebrated 20 years at Plymstock Broadway in style. The Envy team had a special celebration night to start the anniversary and throughout the following week they handed out celebratory drinks and cupcakes to their clients.

Envy are always keen to ‘give back’ to the community. Salon owner Tracie Gunningham qualified as a Hatha yoga instructor during lockdown, and teaches it one to one in her spare time.

She is offering chair yoga sessions for the over 70s on specific dates in July, with the aim of bringing about connection, friendship, health and well-being to clients and the local Plymstock community.

Envy works closely with Emma Barrow Photography and they have teamed up to offer a celebratory ‘Self Love Photo Shoot’. The public can enter via Envy’s Facebook page or drop into the salon with name and email. Details can be found at www.envymyhair.co.uk/self-lovephotoshoot-tcs

Tracie said: “I would like to thank my current team and all past serving members of Envy, whom no doubt have contributed to Envy’s longevity and also a massive thank you to our clients for their continued support, loyalty and custom.

The Broadway has seen the opening and closing of many shops over the years, and Tracie said: “We feel humble to still be here.

Blocked or painful ears? It could be wax! Contact us or visit us in our brand new clinic for more information. Book your appointment quoting ‘WAX5’ for £5 off. 01752 936305 www.Moorhearing.co.uk help@moorhearing.co.uk 153

Eggbuckland Road, Higher Compton Plymouth, PL3

back to the area where she grew up Dr decided to set her sights on creating a with a difference – offering high quality price Here at elburton dental we want our receive the treatment that’s right for them, discussing the options available so that you can choice of treatment that suits you best. After all, teeth!

“The new centre manager Sarah Smith has had such a positive impact on the Broadway since she has been in her post. Her energy and supportiveness with all the business at the Broadway, her drive for the monthly market days and ensuring that the Broadway is full of fun family activities has really brought new life and foot fall back to our doors and for that we are all grateful.”

Envy has been trading for a total of 23 years operating three salons at its peak. However, this was scaled back in 2017 due to Tracie having health issues. Having the one salon has allowed her to get her health back on track and focus solely on making one business a continued success.

Tracie has recently introduced new specialised services to the salon such as mens non surgical hair replacement systems and Fabriq, a Keratin treatment that rebuilds, smooths and strengthens hair.

Sarah Smith said: “The Broadway and surrounding shops in Plymstock offer a great service to residents and beyond. The Broadway aims to cater for everyone’s shopping needs. Along with a wide retail mix, we also offer regular entertainment, promotions and events. “There are over 100 parking spaces adjacent to the centre and parking is free for the first three hours. We look forward to seeing you soon!”

Oprah Winfrey

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY...

Information Commissioner reprimand for Plymouth City Council

Plymouth City Council has been reprimanded by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for failing to respond to the public when asked for personal information held about them - known as a Subject Access Request (SAR).

Plymouth City Council repeatedly failed to meet the legal deadline of one to three months for responding to a SAR. The ICO has issued a reprimand to the council instructing it to take steps to ensure that the public receive their personal information within the statutory period.

Following enquiries, the ICO found that delays were found at Plymouth City Council over the last three years, with 18 requests taking up to two years to complete and a further 18 requests taking between three months and one year. There were 20 outstanding requests up to a year old, and eight requests still outstanding up to two years later. The highest compliance rate for SARs completed on time was 77% in 2022-2023.

Stephen Eckersley, ICO director of investigations, said: “Asking an organisation for the personal information they hold is a fundamental information right, helping people to understand how and why their data is being used. Delays to this process can cause anxiety or distress and have significant impact on people’s lives if they cannot receive copies of their data on time.

“With these backlogs of requests, Plymouth City Council is undermining public confidence by failing to be transparent and accountable. It is also denying residents access to their other information rights, such as asking for the information to be changed or deleted. Other organisations should take note that we will act if they fail to meet their legal obligations when responding to SARs.”

While the council invested in staff to tackle the requests, the reprimand outlined further steps to improve compliance with data protection law. The council must ensure that it has adequate staff resources in place to respond to SARs on time, and continue to implement effective measures to address the outstanding requests.

The ICO has asked Plymouth City Council to provide details of actions taken to address these recommendations within six months of the reprimand being issued.

An SAR is a request made by or on behalf of an individual for the information which they are entitled to ask for under Article 15 of the UK General Data Protection Regulation.

Plymouth firm celebrates 20 years and manages over £100m of investments

West Financial Management, based on Hyde Park Road opposite Hyde Park School, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Helen West, co-founder and sole owner, has been a Financial Adviser for 33 years despite being, as she says tongue in cheek, ‘only 21.’

West Financial Management specialise in Wealth Succession Planning, helping clients to pass maximum assets to the next generation. The Government froze the Inheritance Tax Allowance in 2008 at £325,000 for an individual and it is not due to be reviewed until 2028.

“Over the years we have steadily grown,” said Helen, “mainly from introductions, educational seminars and acquiring several retired Financial Advisers’ clients. We now manage over £100m of client investments.

“One concern we discuss regularly,” she added, “is the cost of care at home or in a care home as it can be expensive. It is important to our clients to maintain their financial independence should they need care in later life. It is therefore necessary to put plans in place before a crisis arises.”

Helen’s dedicated team has years of experience. office manager, Tina Blagdon recently celebrated her 10 year anniversary with West Financial Management, prior to that she worked at HSBC Bank for 26 years.

Newest member of the team Rachael Eastley joined West Financial Management three years ago and has now qualified as an IFA, before that she spent 13 years with HSBC Bank as a mortgage advisor.

Compliance manager, Sue Wilson was the office manager when she worked with Helen at Guardian Financial Services over 30 years

ago and has been with the firm for 17 years.

Community involvement keeps the team grounded as they deal with the intricacies of financial advice, as Helen outlined.

“Every year we volunteer in the community. This year we will be visiting the Devon & Cornwall Food Action Group. Last year, we visited Beera Farm and helped muck out the sheep pens and clean all the feeding buckets! ” she said.

Helen is also keen to maintain her fitness, as she believes that she needs to take care of herself, to be able to take care of the

company, its clients and her team.

Speaking of the team, she provides favourable working arrangements: “We finish at 2.pm on Fridays, everyone has the day off on their birthday and the team appreciate having the day off before Bank Holiday weekends so they can rest and rejuvenate!”

If you would like to have a Complimentary Discovery meeting to see how West FM can help you and your family, please contact them on 01752 228382 or book a free halfhour phone or Zoom meeting. https://westfm. biz/book-a-meeting/

NSPCC seeks volunteers to help deliver Speak Out, Stay Safe programme in schools in Plymouth

A series of information events are set to be held by the NSPCC across the South West in a bid to recruit new volunteers for the charity’s successful schools service.

Last year in Plymouth the NSPCC delivered its Speak Out, Stay Safe programme to 10,735 children in 36 schools across the city. Volunteers play a big role in going out to local schools to help children stay safe.

Speak Out, Stay Safe is a safeguarding programme provided by the NSPCC for children aged 5 to 11. It is available free to all primary schools in the UK.

It helps children, in an age-appropriate way, to understand abuse in all its forms and how to recognise the signs; that abuse is never a child’s fault and that they have the right to be happy and safe; and where to get help including the NSPCC’s Childline service.

The NSPCC is currently recruiting volunteers in Plymouth and across the South West to deliver workshops to Year Five and Six primary school children. Full training and support is provided for volunteers and they work alongside school staff and other volunteers to deliver the workshops.

Volunteering for the Speak Out, Stay Safe programme is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds. All volunteers are asked to be available to deliver two school visits a month with a minimum commitment of 12 months.

Sheila Simpson is a Speak Out, Stay Safe volunteer. She said: “After leaving the civil service, I retrained as a psychotherapist and was struck

when people described difficult childhoods and said they hadn’t realised this wasn’t normal for all children, so they had never asked for help.  That led me to research how to help inform children better at a younger age, and I found the NSPCC Speak Out, Stay Safe programme. I’ve been volunteering for about eight8 years now and have made some wonderful friends too.

“I really enjoy seeing how the Speak Out, Stay Safe programme engages the children. It both informs and empowers them. I absolutely love going into schools to deliver it.”

Fellow volunteer Janice Sibthorpe explained why she volunteers for the NSPCC: “I began volunteering for Speak Out, Stay Safe in 2013, after reading an article about it in the Evening Standard. The article described the service and talked about bullying and how devastating it can be if there is no one to talk to, no one to turn to.

“Previous to this a family member had been bullied, verbally and physical at school to the extent that they were the one to leave the school and look for a different school.

“Had they seen a Speak Out, Stay Safe assembly or workshop they may have had the courage to seek help sooner and to keep on speaking out until someone listened. The idea of speaking directly to children in a safe and age appropriate way about all forms of abuse, and that abuse is never a child’s fault resonated with me then and still does.”

Michelle Green, NSPCC South West and Channel Islands Schools Service manager, said: “The Speak

Out, Stay Safe programme began in 2011 and we currently deliver the service to 90% of primary schools in South West and Channel Islands

“You don’t have to have previous experience working with children to become a volunteer, but we do ask that you are over 16, have good communication skills and that you are passionate about children’s rights and letting children know about their rights.

“We are looking for volunteers from throughout the South West. Full training is provided and all we ask is that you commit to at least two workshops a month in schools that are convenient to you.”

Volunteer Information Meetings are being held in May and June for people who are interested in becoming volunteers for the NSPCC with Speak Out, Stay Safe. These meetings, held online, will give anyone interested more information about the role as well as a chance to ask questions.

To register an interest as a volunteer and sign up for a Volunteer Information Meeting in Plymouth go to https://join-us.nspcc.org. uk/volunteers/vacancy/speak-out-stay-safevolunteer-information-meeting-cornwall/6594/ description/

The closing date to register is June 23 and the webpage also has more information about becoming a volunteer for the NSPCC.

Anyone worried about a child, contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc. org.uk Children and young people who need help and support can contact Childline by calling 0800 111.

Helen West and her team pictured at Beera Farm for their annual volunteer day

Slimming World members shed pounds and raise pounds!

Slimming World members from Plympton, Plymstock and across the rest of Plymouth have joined together to help boost Cancer Research UK.

The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw is a national campaign where Slimming World members can donate the clothing they no longer need. Local members donated their unwanted clothes, shoes, bags, homeware

items and accessories.

At Plymstock Community Centre – which has acted as a bag collection point for the campaign – nearly 500 bags were collected.

Lauren Fidler, Plymstock and Compton Slimming World consultant and team developer said: “I always look forward to the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw event each year and this one is looking to be our biggest yet.

It’s never too late to re-train!

“It’s a brilliant opportunity for our members to celebrate how far they have come on their weight loss journey and for us to support such a worthwhile cause. Each bag is worth at least £25 for charity, meaning our members have raised over £47,000.”

Bex Hele, who runs the Compton Slimming World group at Compton Methodist Church, said: “I am completely blown away by the generosity of our members in giving back to

our local community by donating the clothes they have slimmed out of.

“Our groups are so much more than a weight loss organisation, we are a community. A way to help and support each other with no judgement. Being surrounded by other people who understand and can relate to each other is so important.

“My members were so excited to once again support this incredible campaign, and alongside Lauren’s group we collected nearly 400 bags! Part of the 1882 collected across the city. Phenomenal!”

The partnership between Cancer Research UK and Slimming World aims to raise awareness of the links between obesity and cancer. Research shows that being overweight or obese is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer in the UK.

Lauren added: “More than one in 20 cancer cases are caused by excess weight so, as well as raising vital funds, the partnership between Slimming World and Cancer Research also supports our shared goal to raise awareness of the links between obesity and cancer, helping people to live healthy lives.”

DEATH OF FORMER

PLYMPTON ERLE COUNCILLOR

Former Plympton Erle Councillor Ross Burns has passed away unexpectedly after a short illness.

Ross became Labour councillor for Plympton Erle in the 1995 local elections, achieving a Labour clean sweep in the ward with colleagues Val Burns and Ray Rogers.

In the next local elections in 1997 Mr and Mrs Burns did not stand to defend their seats and Plympton Erle returned to its then traditional blue colours with Conservatives Kath Banks, John Fox and David James being elected. Ray Rogers came fourth.

Ross last stood for election in Plympton Erle in 2007 when he came third behind winner Terri Beer and Paul Rowe of the Lib Dems.

He was also previously a South West candidate for election to the NEC of the Cooperative Party. He passed away peacefully at Derriford Hospital and is now reunited with Val. His funeral took place at Weston Mill Crematorium on May 30.

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

ANDREW WARD is managing director and sales director of Ability Bathe, a family-run independent bathroom installation company which was founded by Andrew and his wife in 2012.

Andrew has owned and run a complete bathroom supply and installation company for 25 years, fitting all types of bathrooms and wet rooms in the North of England. Since expanding into the South West, Andrew – together with a small team of employees – has specialised in installing and fitting not just bathrooms, but also walk-in showers and wet rooms.

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Andrew personally goes out to the initial consultation, paying great attention to detail and customer requirements. On commencement, he again attends and personally sets up the installation, running through all points raised with his employees, who will do the hands-on installation.

Then he spends the final finishing hours at the customer’s home to make sure the customer is happy with the installation quality and service. Ability Bathe’s motto is: “A bath to shower in 48 hours”

Andrew says: “We make the promise that we don’t come to you until our previous job is complete and we will not leave you until yours is complete”.

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PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

Plans for

Plans have been submitted for Sherford’s biggest stage of development yet with over 1,000 new homes to be built.

Of the three neighbourhoods being created within Sherford as a whole, the Phase 3A&B neighbourhood is set to have a distinct ‘village’ feel to it. A total of 1,024 new homes will be built in this new section, with a variety of house types and designs that reflect a village look and feel.

Located on the Eastern edge of Sherford, this new section will cover 45-hectares of land (450,000m2) and marks one of the most ambitious and significant stages of the development to date. The award-winning new community is being brought to life by the Sherford Consortium – a partnership between Taylor Wimpey, Countryside Partnerships and Vistry Housebuilding.

Phase 3A&B will be surrounded by open green space, including the scenic South Hams landscape of Sherford’s expanding Country Park. In total, it will provide 35-hectares (350,000m2) of publicly accessible green space and communal areas, which includes Sherford Stream Valley, urban parks, playgrounds, wildflower meadows, avenues of trees, and vast amounts of parkland.

This next chapter unlocks even more land within the Country Park, which will eventually cover 500-acres. Phase 3A&B provides a valuable connection to the ‘Northern slopes’ part of the park, enabling quick and easy access to the great outdoors.

This new phase of the Country Park will make the most of a stunning natural feature –Sherford Stream – to create a natural pool, open watercourses and aquatic plants. Grass and wildflowers meadows, mature and new trees, and Devon hedges will feature amongst this extensive and impressive park.

There will be footpath and cycle path

Sherford homes submitted

connections through the new phase, with around five kilometres of new cycle routes created, providing access out into the countryside. These new routes will connect to the Country Park, the National Cycle Network, and areas under development in the second phase of Sherford –such as the Community Park Hub and the ‘edible edge’, which includes community gardens, an orchard, and allotments.

Family-friendly in every way, the new phase of Sherford will have multiple play areas for children, with three playgrounds kitted out with an array of play equipment. These play zones are all located within a band of green space stretching around the perimeter of the new phase and connected by footpaths.

Within the new residential areas will be a number of urban parks, which means all homes are in close proximity to green space, places to play and relax. The communal spaces will have different characters based on their location. One park will embrace its natural surroundings of Sherford Stream, to create a habitat for plants and creatures that thrive in moist soil conditions. This will be set alongside meandering paths, seats, and a focal point with a difference: snail sculptures!

Biodiversity in action

As well as delivering attractive and functional green space, there is a bold biodiversity strategy planned. ‘Wildlife corridors’ will be created to connect and maintain habitats for wildlife, including Sherford’s bat population.

Wildlife meadows, native woodland, hedgebanks and wetlands will provide important ecological enhancements that boost biodiversity. Bird and bat boxes within the development and Country Park will also create homes for wildlife within the new town. A huge amount of new woodland will be planted – totalling 4.5-hecatres

(45,000m2) – which will also create new habitats, enable wildlife to flourish, and deliver massive environmental benefits by capturing carbon.

This major new phase of development will also create a vital new connection for the new community, with the completion of Southern Avenue. This is one of Sherford’s main arterial roads, linking to Main Street, which runs through Sherford and leads out to the A38.

The Reserved Matters planning application for Phase 3A&B has been submitted and it is hoped that work will start on site next year. A sizeable section of Sherford to develop, once work begins, it is likely to take two to three years for the infrastructure to be created, and three to five years for the new homes to be built.

Noel Staunton, managing director of Taylor Wimpey Exeter, part of the Sherford Consortium, said: “This major new phase at Sherford is a significant step forward and cements this new town as an outstanding place to live, work and socialise.

“Surrounded by green space and with a village feel, residents will have all the benefits of living in a modern town, while being in the heart of stunning South Hams countryside too. The vision has always been to create a unique, vibrant and sustainable community and Phase 3A&B will deliver this and more.”

Peter Sadler, managing director of Countryside Partnerships South West, part of the Sherford Consortium, added: “With a town centre, leisure centre, schools, community facilities, abundant green space and much more planned, Sherford is not only one of the largest new developments in the South West, but also one of the most exciting and ambitious too. There is a bright future ahead for Sherford and it is a privilege to create this oneof-a-kind new town.”

Sherford viewed from the country park Photo: John Allen

Wolferstans move mountains for The Mustard Tree charity

Staff from Plymouth-based law firm, Wolferstans Solicitors, recently embarked on a gruelling climb up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, to raise funds for The Mustard Tree, a charity that supported their late colleague Sharon Roberts during her battle with cancer.

The team, made up of Holly Bowditch, Julian Burrows, James Twine, Jack Harvey, Paige Bartlett, Pippa Tanner-Wood, Mara Cunha and Sam Porritt, took on the challenge in memory of Sharon, who passed away last year, and to give back to the organisation that had supported her and her family during such a difficult time.

The climb was no easy feat, with the team facing both physical and mental challenges throughout the journey. The team persevered though and successfully reached the summit of Ben Nevis, raising an impressive £3000 for The Mustard Tree in the process.

Reflecting on the experience, team member Julian Burrows said: “The climb was tough, both physically and mentally. But we kept Sharon in our hearts and minds throughout the journey, knowing that the challenges we faced were nothing compared to what she had gone through. We were absolutely determined to succeed for Sharon and for The Mustard Tree.”

The Mustard Tree expressed their gratitude for Wolferstans Solicitors’ support, saying: “We are passionate about supporting people effected by cancer here at the Mustard

Tree, and it’s great to work alongside the Wolferstans team who clearly feel the same.

“Every pound donated goes toward local service provision or plans in some way improve outcomes for those we support; on behalf of all the staff at the Mustard Tree, future cancer patients, carers, and families

across our locality, thank you Wolferstans Ben Nevis team!”

Wolferstans Solicitors is committed to supporting charitable causes and making a positive impact in their local community. This is just one of many initiatives undertaken to support organisations in need.

Taking a well-earned break on the climb

Peak performance at the top of Ben Nevis

Sherford Life

The world looks wonderful when the sun shines! As I write (at the beginning of June), we’re into the third week in a row of glorious weather. I’m sorry if that’s no longer the case by the time you read this! Where’s your favourite place to visit in good weather? I find that so much easier to answer than the question of where to visit in bad weather! And we’re so wonderfully spoilt for choice in and around Plymouth. Here are a few of my favourites:

We’ve got some absolutely stunning beaches: Wembury, Bovisand, Mothecombe and Bigbury to the east; Cawsand and Whitsand to the West. And the incredible North Cornwall coastline less than two hours away.

We’ve got some wonderful gardens and houses, many of them run by the National Trust: Saltram right in the heart of Plymouth, as well as Mount Edgcumbe, Overbeck’s garden, Buckland Abbey, The Garden House, Lukesland Gardens, Antony House, Coleton Fishacre. A personal favourite of mine is Greenway near Brixham, the former holiday home of legendary author Agatha Christie.

We’ve got great family days out like Paignton Zoo and Pennywell Farm. And then we have miles and miles of beautiful countryside: woodland areas like Plymbridge, lots of river and hill walks on Dartmoor, Burrator Reservoir etc.

SHERFORD SKILLS TRAINING CENTRE CELEBRATING FIFTH ANNIVERSARY

Marking a major milestone in delivering specialist skills and support for the construction industry, Sherford Skills Training Centre is celebrating its fifth anniversary.

Opening its doors in May 2018, the one-ofa-kind facility has supported over 245 learners through its two main training programmes, supported over 100 apprenticeships, and created over 280 job opportunities.

Filling workforce gaps and providing new employment opportunities, in just five years the centre has created a lasting legacy, successfully supporting hundreds of apprentices, learners, and armed service leavers, as well as enabling users to retrain and upskill. The centre is also a valuable onsite training facility for the many successful contractors and local businesses helping to build Sherford.

Boosting the local employment landscape and addressing the skills gap, Sherford Skills Training Centre equips learners with the expertise and experience needed to enter the construction industry. Open to everyone, the centre combines classroom learning with practical experience at one of the region’s largest active construction sites.     Delivering

skills

And that’s before you get to the beautiful pockets of nature in our own communities! In Sherford we have the slowly increasing Sherford Country Park, cared for tirelessly by a small group called the Friends of Sherford Country Park. Where do you like to if you walk from your house? Where do you go in order to have breathing space in nature away from the ‘hustle and bustle’ of life? It’s a key question, because life can be stressful, and getting out into nature can have wonderful healing powers.

By Revd Tom Brassil

Its flagship training offering is the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) backed onsite training programme and fully-funded Building Heroes courses – which support armed service leavers, veterans, and their families. Of the 28 courses run at the centre so far, more than 70% of learners have gained employment, gone into construction roles, or have continued in further/higher education

– many have even gone into jobs on site at Sherford.

Regarded as a hub of innovation and learning, the creation of the revolutionary £370,000 centre was funded by the Sherford Consortium – a partnership between Taylor Wimpey, Countryside Partnerships and Vistry Housebuilding. The facility features classrooms, a workshop, and an outdoor training area where learners are supported by expert educators and mentors, as well as benefitting from support and networking opportunities with Sherford’s housebuilders and contractors.

Community connections

inspire the next generation of construction professionals as part of its ongoing outreach work.

By hosting regular workshops, training days and events for local primary and secondary schools, pupils have the opportunity to learn more about construction careers and the many opportunities available.

The skills centre recently welcomed students from The Prince’s Trust, hosted Building Plymouth Open Sites events, and local schoolchildren attended as part of the Millfields Inspired project Widening Horizons – an innovative programme delivered to the seven local primary schools located within the Stonehouse neighbourhood of Plymouth, to help children understand the impact of education on their life outside of school.

But there is also another vital role that the natural world has to play in our lives: it’s a constant reminder that, despite what we often see as chaos, there is a beautiful order and intentionality in the created world. In other words, when we look at the natural world, we can’t help but notice that it is the work of a gifted, artistic and visionary Creator.

Most of us go about our lives with a general assumption that there is no Creator, no God behind it all. But I have yet to find any other more fitting explanation for the ordered beauty that I see in the world. In short: if it’s all an accident, why is it so breathtaking?

Some of the Bible writers pick up on this theme, and most notably writers of the Psalms. Here’s an example: the opening verse of Psalm 19 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”

Look up at the stars on a clear night and think, someone incredible made that! And then ask yourself: is it time to discover this Creator for myself?

If you want to find out more about the Creator, send me a message at tom@ sherfordchurch.net

Training programmes and onsite work experience are delivered by education partner City College Plymouth, with support from South Devon College, Plymouth Construction Training Group and Building Plymouth. Collectively, they support the development of skills across trades, including drylining, rendering and painting.

The centre is also helping to

Swimming at Mount Wise to stay free

Charges that had been planned for the popular Mount Wise swimming pools will not be introduced, says the new Labour-led council administration.

Mount Wise features three pools – a 25-metre main pool, a fun pool with fountains, stepping stones, a whirlpool and a bubble pool and a small pool where children can paddle and build their confidence in the water. The facility has fantastic views across the Tamar River.

As part of the 2023/24 budget proposals, it was announced last year that swimmers could be charged to use the outdoor pools this summer. However, in one of its first decisions, the new council administration has scrapped the proposals, keeping the Mount Wise pools free to access during the cost-of-living crisis.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries and Cemeteries and Crematoria, said: “Things are really tough for so many families across the city. Many can’t afford to have days out and trips with the family. Where we can keep things free or low-cost, we really should try.

“It is clear that the savings we would have made by introducing charges at Mount Wise would have been small, compared to how much the pools being free of charge means to local people. Therefore, we have decided to find the money elsewhere.”

Steven Ricketts, Sherford Skills Training Scheme coordinator, said: “It is fantastic to celebrate this milestone moment and the legacy being created.

“We are extremely proud to be able to demonstrate that the centre is positively supporting the construction industry and changing the lives of its users.

“By being based at Sherford, learners can put the skills they are learning into practice, increase their understanding of how sites of this scale operate, and have the opportunity to be part of the creation of an award-winning new community.

“In just five years, the Sherford Skills Training Centre has gone from strength to strength, and it is a privilege to see our graduates go on to secure employment, while filling the many vacancies available in the construction industry – including going on to work at Sherford.

“The centre is a one-of-a-kind facility, and we are constantly investing in new equipment and resources to ensure learners can develop their skills while learning about the opportunities available in the sector. We get incredible feedback from our learners –who gain new skills and confidence – and we look forward to continuing to build on this success.”

Zoe, a Building Heroes learner

Sir Gary Streeter MP officially 20opening the Sherford Skills Training Centre in May 2018

Photos: John Allen

Big programme of events to mark 300th anniversary of birth of Sir Joshua Reynolds

Plympton St Maurice is one of Devon’s unexplored gems. Why? Apart from the many lovely listed buildings and illustrious people who have been born there and have contributed to British history and culture, the village has been called ‘The Birthplace of British Art.’

The followers of artist Sir Joshua Reynolds, born in Plympton St Maurice on July 16 1723 wouldn’t disagree and will be celebrating his 300th birthday mid-July with many interesting events at his birthplace.

Visitors can still see Plympton Grammar School where Josh was a pupil and his father, the master. Rumour has it that the young Josh doodled on the school walls but an over-zealous decorator painted over leaving the early work lost forever.

Subsequent noted artists studying in St Maurice included Charles Lock Eastlake, first director of the National Gallery, Royal Academicians James Northcote and Benjamin Haydon. All three went to the same school as Reynolds.

Joshua’s artistic talents were quickly recognised from an early age. At the age of 18 he travelled to London to become an apprentice to another Devonian painter, Thomas Hudson, then returned to Plymouth where he set up his own studio before doing a European tour. Back in London, the 29-year-old artist successfully established himself as a portrait painter, gaining patrons and a wide circle of friends who promoted his work.

As founding member and first president of the Royal Academy, Joshua was knighted. He also gained an honorary degree from Oxford University in 1773. The same year he was elected as Mayor of Plympton – an appointment which he declared ‘gave him the greatest honour of all.’

Celebrating Reynold’s birth starts on Friday July 14. Leading art expert Dr Martin Postle will give a talk at The Guildhall in Plympton on ‘Reynolds at 300’ at 7pm followed by a discussion with other experts. Drinks at 8.30pm, tickets £12.

On July 15, current artists show off their work in an exhibition open from 10am to 4.30pm in The Guildhall. Displays of Reynolds connections with Plympton, charting his early life and local achievements as well as research into the local area will also be shown.

The paints, techniques and materials used by Reynolds are the subject of a fascinating talk from 2pm to 3pm by National Portrait Gallery expert Alexandra Gent.

From 11am to 11.45am there’s a guided tour of Plympton St Maurice exploring settings familiar to the young Reynolds.

On July 16 the streets of St Maurice go back in time as the streets are decorated and activities and trails for all will take place, set against the backdrop of the historic buildings.

From 10.30am to 4.30pm the art and history exhibition will continue in The Guildhall. An 18th century re-enactment group will demonstrate aspects of everyday life during Joshua’s early years in Plympton St Maurice.

A guided tour of the village will take place from 11am to 11.45am. A procession at 1pm will see flowers laid at the memorial to Sir Joshua at St Maurice Church.

After an address on behalf of the Plympton St Maurice Civic Association there will be a picnic on the castle green with family activities.

For budding artists, there will be easels and materials available around the village for them to create a masterpiece.

For those who want to see the real thing The Box in Plymouth has a spectacular exhibition entitled ‘Reframing Reynolds: A Celebration,’ exploring the artist’s career, and important works, many on loan from other international collections.

The Box is running an events programme of talks, special events and family activities and the exhibition runs from June 24 to Sunday October 29. Admission is free. Details at www.theboxplymouth. com/events/reframing-reynolds

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL

The three-day Midsummer Festival including concert, art exhibition, Lamb Feast and Open Gardens will be taking place on June 16, 17 and 18 June in Plympton St Maurice, not Plympton St Mary as announced on the front page of our last issue. We apologise for any confusion this may have caused.

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An early self-portrait

Another self-portrait by the celebrated artist

It finally feels like summer has arrived, although I realise I mustn’t tempt fate so hope the sun is still warm and shining by the time you are reading this!

With the sunshine has come epic grass growing. I know there has been a lot of noise about the grass cutting schedule across Plymstock and Plympton.

In the first instance, the best thing to do if there is a section of land where you feel the grass has been left too long is to check the online grasscutting map at www.plymouth.gov.uk/how-wemanage-our-grass

Whenever I get emails about the grass, I always check this map to see what should be happening at any given spot. I’m confident that by the time this article has gone to print, Plympton and Plymstock should have had it’s May cut, allowing for pollinators to enjoy the flowers but also helping our communities to look welcoming.

My big news this month is that I have been selected to replace Sir Gary Streeter MP as the Conservative candidate at the next General Election - likely next autumn. Back in November, Sir Gary announced his plans to retire at the end of this five year Parliament and it has provided the opportunity for me to step into his shoes and work alongside him getting to know the challenges and opportunities across the constituency as a whole.

It’s been a long application process with two tough interviews but I am really excited to have

Rebecca’s Review

By Plymouth City Councillor Rebecca Smith and Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for West Devon

this new role! I continue to serve as a Councillor in Plymstock Radford but I will also mention Plympton and Plymstock Dunstone in this column going forward.

If you’re involved with a community group or business or any other group you think it would be good for me to meet with, please do get in touch

on rebecca@rebecca-smith.org.uk. I am really keen to build on my existing knowledge of the community so I can best support you.

With the

Speaking of which, it was lovely to attend the Coronation Afternoon Tea of the Plymstock Townswomen’s Guild at Plymstock Community Centre a couple of weeks ago. As well as enjoying a lovely tea, I was able to speak about my work as a local politician and also judge the flower arranging competition! Finally, I always enjoy being grilled by the BBC’s Political Editor Martyn Oates on the South West Sunday Politics programme and enjoyed discussing the rebuild of Derriford Hospital (which is on track to be completed by 2025), housing and public toilets recently! All in a day’s work. Until next month, do let me know if I can be of any assistance. Email rebecca@ rebecca-smith.org.uk and Facebook: @ PlymouthRebecca

Wembury student’s journey from surfer to social media expert

Former Arts University student

Tom Bispham, has a career that has gone from strength to strength since graduating in 2022.

Creative director Tom - who went to Coombe Dean School – specialises in creating content for social media, marketing and advertising. Since summer 2022 Tom has worked with a range of brands, companies and influencers, including DJ Tom Zanetti, Glastonbury Festival, MISFITS Boxing, Northcore and UN Patron of the Oceans, Lewis Pugh.

Tom credits part of his success to the five years that he spent studying at Arts University Plymouth, beginning in 2017 with an A-Level equivalent Extended Diploma at the university’s Pre-Degree campus. He enjoyed his studies so much that Tom stayed on from September 2017 for a Digital Media Production degree – now part of BA (Hons) Film & Screen Arts – at Arts University Plymouth.

Tom said: “Instead of staying on at school to do A-Levels, I chose to go to Arts University Plymouth’s PreDegree campus to study filmmaking and media production. I grew up in Wembury, so the sea has been a

constant in my life and I love to surf, which led to me doing a lot of ocean videography during that first course.

“Sharing my work online, everything I posted was getting good engagement and it made me feel like I’d really like to learn more about videography and media management, so I stayed on for a degree at Arts University Plymouth.

“During my degree I started working as a videographer in Plymouth nightclubs, including Pryzm, The Depo and Fever, which helped me make connections in

the music industry. After working in nightclubs for a couple of months I met Tom Zanetti, a DJ, music producer, rapper and singer from Leeds.

“I’ve regularly created content and worked with Tom to support his social channels since we met, which has been a great experience. We’ve toured festivals across the UK and abroad, going to Tokyo World Boardmasters, then further afield to Ibiza, Tenerife, Greece, the Maldives and the USA.

“Working with Tom Zanetti

helped me to make connections with a range of other professionals within the entertainment industries, giving me opportunities to work with a large number of mainstream artists, companies and events within a relatively short period of time. I’ve filmed and created content in the past year at events including Glastonbury, Insomnia Fest, and MISFITS Boxing.

“I’ve also worked on short social media films for leading brands like Northcore, and collaborated with Lewis Pugh, an endurance swimmer and UN Patron of the Oceans.

“Things are going so well that I’m looking at ways to take practical steps to build a creative agency for short form content. I know that I can take my work to the next level by collaborating with more motion graphic and visual artists, to give my films an added polish.

“But that also opens the door to work with more graphic designers, animators, screenwriters for creative narratives. I don’t just want to increase my output, I want to pull different strands of talent together to offer an unrivalled service and to have a wider pool of collaborators to draw upon for big jobs.”

Cllr Rebecca Smith and local Party members at the Elfordleigh Hotel following her selection as Parliamentary Candidate for West Devon

Plymstock Townswomen’s Guild for the Coronation afternoon tea

Rebecca and Martyn Oates at the BBC in Plymouth

Tom in his surfing days

Tom with DJ Tom Zanetti

Aye-Aye the geriatric cat in need of lifesaving care

Gables Dogs & Cats Home have recently taken in an elderly cat called Aye-Aye from the RSPCA.

The lovely elderly girl was found lying in a road in a collapsed state and was extremely cold, underweight and lethargic. She was taken to a local veterinary practice where it was found that she was hyperthyroid and in need of urgent medical care. Sadly she was not microchipped so there was no way to trace her owner. Now that she is in the care of Gables they can effectively treat her condition and find her a new home where she will be comfortable and happy.

ACTION TO

BE TAKEN OVER

PERSISTENT ROAD FLOODING

Plymouth City Council is to carry out highway repairs after South West Water denied being culpable for the repeated flooding being encountered on Plymouth Road just East of the junction with Woodford Avenue.

It is a situation which has become the bane of motorists entering Plympton from Marsh Mills during heavy rainfall and also makes the pavement impassable for pedestrians and the nearby bus stop also becomes unusable.

A spokesperson for South West Water said: “We have previously sent a team to the site to look into this issue and could find no issues

with our network. We believe the flooding is being caused by a blocked highway gully.”

A Plymouth City Council spokesman said: “We are aware of the issue with flooding in this area, particularly when there is a heavy deluge of rain in a short space of time.

“A recent CCTV inspection shows that a repair to a nearby gully is required and we will be actioning that as soon as possible.

“We have also asked South West Water to carry out a wider survey in the area so that we can be sure there are no underlying problems that may be exacerbating the issue.”

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Gables are determined to help Aye-Aye back to good health. General manager, Claire Sparkes said: “When Aye Aye arrived she was clearly very underweight with a body score of just two out of nine, and in a very poor condition. She was not underweight due to just being old, she has untreated medical issues and has not been fed properly.

“We were pleased to be able to offer her our help. She is already starting to put on weight due to receiving six small meals a day of a top quality veterinary diet in the short time she has been with us. She has such a lovely character and she will be a lovely companion for someone very lucky.

Once she is strong enough she will need dental treatment to remove some very rotten teeth and a tumour on her jaw inside her mouth. She will also need a heart scan and bloods taken to assess how well her hyperthyroidism medication is working. In the mean time she will still enjoy plenty of

attention from Gables staff and lots of good food.

It is estimated it will cost Gables £4,000 for all the treatment and medication that Aye-Aye will need now and into the future, as well as basic care such as flea and worm treatment and vaccinations. As she is an elderly cat Gables will continue to support her new owners with her veterinary care.

To help to ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to Aye Aye’s Vet Appeal call 01752 331602 or visit www.justgiving.com/ campaign/AyeAye to donate online.

Aye-Aye pictured with Gables deputy manager Ruth Rickard

Dunstone Diary

By Councillor John Stephens

As this is my first article, I thought I would let you know what has been happening in my first month since being elected on May 4 as your local councillor for Plymstock Dunstone. It has been a whirlwind of a start!

Thank you to residents for putting your trust in me at the ballot box and I look forward to serving you alongside colleague councillors on our Labour-led City Council who will lead the city to Build a Better Plymouth. In Dunstone, I will also cooperate alongside Cllr David Salmon on shared issues that affect residents, leaving aside our political affiliations.

My sympathy goes to the family and friends of Cllr Vivien Pengelly who sadly passed away earlier in June. Vivien dedicated herself to serving the people of Dunstone and the city of Plymouth over the last five decades, including as Leader of the Council and Lord Mayor. (See story on back page).

I have been appointed to the City Council’s Education and Children’s Social Care and the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committees and the Licensing Committee. I will also serve on the Plymouth Senior Citizens Forum, Plymstock United Charity and Elize Hele and John Lanyon Education Foundation.

It has been great to have experienced a variety of engagements and events ranging from the Lord Mayor’s Choosing Ceremony, Plymstock Library Market Day, which supports a variety of small businesses, the Plymouth Motor Show at Plymstock Oaks RFC and meeting residents as you share your delights and situations that concern you.

A major challenge has been the unauthorised encampment at King George V playing fields in Elburton. These scenarios are always challenging for a local authority, the police and particularly for residents and businesses who can be affected by the negative consequences that can come with such a situation. I am glad to have engaged the police, the Cabinet Lead with responsibility for unauthorised encampments and the local residents’ association to review what has happened and how to mitigate future recurrence.

Whilst local councillor contacts often centre on deep potholes, high grass and narrow parking spaces, I have been inspired by ideas from the ideas some of you have sought to explore. For example, opportunities for intergenerational activity when older and younger people in our community can get to know and understand each other and share their varying perspectives and interests with one another; this is something I would love to explore further with you.

I am looking forward to giving you opportunities to share any concerns, or be signposted to someone who could help you with a situation and to discuss ideas to help make Plymstock an even better place to live and grow.

So look out for planned sessions for these chats at Plymstock Library, Staddiscombe, Elburton and Sherford which will be advertised on community Facebook pages and on my page Cllr John Stephens for Plymstock Dunstone.

If I can do anything to help you with local issues or ideas, please contact me on John.Stephens@plymouth.gov.uk

Harewood House visitors taken back in time

Visitors to Harewood House were taken back in time as part of the Plympton and District Civic Society’s local history weekend in May.

Period costume group the Age of Chivalry were unable to proceed with their customary encampment at Plympton Priory this year, but instead a number of their members were on hand at Harewood House to give group talks and slideshow presentations - which included one on medieval dance.

There was medieval music to enjoy and weaponry of the time, such as swords and bows and arrows, to have a look at.

The heritage room had extended opening hours during the weekend and their display of artefacts spilled out into the main hall of Harewood House. These included numerous scrap books of old local press cuttings and a large roll out of Ridgeway showing the shops which used to be there when it was that main A38 into Plymouth.

The Heritage Room at Harewood House is open most Fridays from 12 noon to 2pm where visitors can peruse old documents and look at cabinets of historic local artefacts.

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

May Fair was a corker!

This year’s Plympton May Fair was blessed with glorious weather and crowds turned out to an array of stalls inside and outside Harewood House along with a variety of entertainment.

This year’s event had a Coronation theme to it. Visitors were able to see a selection of vintage vehicles on display in the small car park outside Plympton Clinic and Stannator Andrew Cooper and Youth Ambassador Oliver Chard got to have a trip in one of them before the event was formally opened.

Dancing and singing groups performed in the car park above the tennis courts and the sporting facilities in Harewood Park were also available for spectators and participants to enjoy.

The ‘Human Fruit Machine’ gave added amusement to the day which also saw the climax of the Community Council’s Coronation Crown Hunt. 12 shops in Ridgeway each displayed a picture of a crown with a letter, the letters when put together spelt out a well-known phrase. Children had until 2.30pm to work out the answer and hand in their entry forms with the first 75 correct entrants receiving a commemorative Coronation medal.

The May Fair is only able to go ahead each year due to the voluntary effort of a team of members of Plympton Community Council and thanks in particular go to Pauline Kadoche who attended to much of the administrative organisation.

(Story courtesy of Plympton Podcast)

Councillor John Stephens learning more about Timebanks in Plymouth

The Cross Rhythms festivals we held in the 90s and early 2000s were a real joy for myself and Kerry.

Since we relocated back to the south west we have had many conversations with those who attended these three-day events.

To be totally honest, the workload was quite demanding at the time, and I often said that although I was there, I wasn’t always present as I thought about the pressure of hosting and organising the event.

A big shout out also to the hundreds of unpaid volunteers, still around today, who gave of their time to build the tented city and make it work so well. These were amazing people and truly servant hearted.

I say this because a friend of ours, Sarah Yardley, who organises CreationFest met up with me recently and shared her plans for this year’s event.

They seem so exciting but can take a toll on the team as these charities put the work in to make it happen.

Free festival not to be missed

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms

charity

These are good folk who work tirelessly to serve and bless other people without grumbling - too much.

As this is the festival season, I wanted to encourage you to consider attending the free Christian festival CreationFest which is held on the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge at the end of July. Yes I did say free! Unless you want to camp and then there is a charge, but as day visitors, there is no charge.

As I’ve already said, my wife Kerry and I still have many conversations with folk who attended the Cross Rhythms Festival in the

Local hospital goes Mega to help reduce NHS waiting times

A local Plymouth hospital is launching a two-month ‘mega’ drive to push down NHS waiting lists and treat as many cataract patients as possible.

With the number of people in England waiting to start routine hospital treatment now at a record high of over seven million, with one of the largest areas of referrals coming from ophthalmology, Practice Plus Group Hospital Plymouth has responded by tackling the waiting lists for their cataracts, one of the nation’s most common hospital procedures.

Cataracts can be easily treated, make a huge difference to quality of life and it is known that early referral and treatment can result in a better outcome, so Practice Plus Group Plymouth created their Mega Months to get their waiting lists moving.     Usually, the hospital treats on average 56 NHS cataract patients over a one month period, but during the hospital’s first Mega Month in May, they have seen over 240 NHS cataract patients, which has required careful planning.

Sarah Fell, hospital director, said: “We want to drive down the patient waiting times for cataracts and felt this was an achievable target with the staff and facilities we have.  The team are so positive and are working really hard to make this happen.“

With June being Cataract Awareness Month too, it has been the perfect opportunity for everyone to get involved and we have been promoting how important early treatment of cataracts can be.”  Practice Plus Group is increasing awareness of the signs and symptoms of cataracts with

a number of events, resources and education sessions for carers and professionals around the country throughout June.

Adrian Peake, who works for Practice Plus Group as operational director, put off having cataract surgery for three years before finally taking the plunge in October 2021.

Adrian said: “Having surgery on your eye is obviously not something anyone wants to have done. Even with my total faith in my colleagues, I felt fearful and actually put it off for three years. I love reading and I just didn’t read.

“When I did finally have the surgery, I wished I’d done it so much earlier. It took just six minutes and for me the results were immediate. Don’t underestimate the difference it will make to your life.”

For more information on the signs and symptoms of cataracts, visit www. practiceplusgroup.com/knowledge-hub/spotfirst-signs-of-cataracts/ Treatment is available on the NHS or privately and nobody should delay seeking advice if they are experiencing symptoms of cataracts.

For more information visit www. practiceplusgroup.com/hospitals/plymouth/

past and CreationFest is similar to what we used to do.

The organisers have a great inheritance through their connection with Calvary Chapel denomination which came out of the last great revival in the western world in the sixties and seventies called the Jesus People Movement. This movement started the contemporary music you can listen to on Cross Rhythms radio. Check out the CreationFest website for all that’s happening with the bands, speakers and events on www.creationfest.org.uk.

The CreationFest team are showing

The support currently on offer at children’s centres in Plymouth is set to grow with the launch of the city’s first Family Hubs.

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

Plymouth City Council has been awarded a share of £300 million that the Government has set aside for 75 local authorities to support the development of Family Hubs and establish Start for Life support that will help families as their children grow.

The Start for Life offer, supporting pregnancy through to four years old, is the first stage of the Family Hub programme to go live. Over time, the Family Hubs will incorporate additional support such as youth services to help families with older children and teenagers right into early adulthood. This will mean that whatever help, guidance and advice that families need, they will be welcomed at their local Family Hub where they can find support and connect to a wider network of services.

Four of the city’s children’s centres celebrated the start of their transformation in June:

• The Barn, Barne Barton Family Hub

• Rees Wellbeing and Family Hub, Plympton

• Nomony Family Hub, Cattedown

• Four Greens Wellbeing and Family Hub, Whitleigh Councillor Jemima Laing, deputy leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We want all children in Plymouth to have the best possible start in life and to ensure that

the film, Jesus Revolution, on Saturday night, Aiugust 5 which has been taking moviegoers by storm in the USA.

This film is the true history of this spiritual revival, which changed the lives of millions with hope and authentic spiritual love. It stars Kelsey Grammer, from the American sitcom Frasier.

It was this movement which encouraged me to start Cross Rhythms after listening to Bob Dylan’s track ‘Gotta Serve Somebody’ which he wrote after his Christian conversion in the 70s.

Cross Rhythms Plymouth will be interviewing the CreationFest team soon so keep connected on 96.3FM and online at crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth for details.

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

Plymouth’s first family hubs are launched

parents and carers feel supported by their communities.

The first few years of life are absolutely crucial so it’s fantastic to be launching the new Start for Life offer at four of our new Family Hubs.

“This is just the start of a journey for us in Plymouth, as over time all our children’s centres will transition to Family Hubs and bring together a much broader range of services to support families.

“Our aim is for any parent or carer to feel welcome at their local Family Hub, a place where they can reach out to a network of support and easily find the help they need in a local place, at any stage in their children’s lives.”

The multi-agency Family Hubs will offer:

• information about local support groups and activities for all the family - antenatal classes, play sessions, parenting programmes, dads groups and child development groups such as language development and relationship building

• practical help from professionals and peer supporters

• breast feeding and infant feeding support

• equipment on loan for example, breast pumps

• access to extra help if things get difficult

Find out more about Family Hubs at www. plymouth.gov.uk/family-hubs

Cllr Jemima Laing

Chris Cole

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NEW LORD MAYOR AND DEPUTY LORD MAYOR ARE ELECTED

Councillor Mark Shayer has been elected as Lord Mayor of Plymouth, with Councillor Kathy Watkin as the new Deputy Lord Mayor for the upcoming year.

They were both elected at the annual general meeting on May 19. Councillor Shayer was first elected to the Budshead Ward in 2022. Until recently he was the interim leader of Plymouth City Council, and prior to that the deputy leader, responsible for human resources, economic development and finance, as well representing Plymouth on the Devon and Somerset Fire Authority.

Councillor Mark Shayer, served on three ships for the Royal Navy before joining the Submarine Service, where he served as an engineer on five submarines over the course of nearly 25 years.

After leaving the Navy, he worked at Devonport Royal Dockyard as a project manager, before retiring in 2020.

He has always been active locally, sitting on a number of local boards, including at the Four Greens Trust, the Drake Foundation and is the Joint Chair for the Mount Edgcumbe Trust Board.

Councillor Shayer, said: “It is an honour to be elected as the new Lord Mayor of Plymouth for the coming year.

“I have always been passionate about Plymouth, and it will be a real pleasure to have the opportunity to connect with people across the City from all walks of life. I will take

this year as an opportunity to say thank you to those who make Plymouth such a lovely place to live, to work and to visit.

“I am looking forward to representing as many communities, organisations and the people of Plymouth and working hard to showcase Plymouth.”

Councillor Watkin was first elected as a ward councillor for Plymstock Radford Ward in 2019.

In addition to serving on the Planning Committee of which she was vice chair in 2022-2023. She also sat on the licensing committee, budget scrutiny committee, health and wellbeing board and the corporate parenting group.

Councillor Watkin trained as a speech and language therapist in London and practised for a few years. She then decided to pursue a career in law which brought her to Plymouth and has worked in and near the city as a solicitor for her lengthy legal career, and prior to her retirement had her own practice in the city.

Councillor Watkin, said: “To be elected as the next Deputy Lord Mayor is a privilege and an honour.

“I have loved Plymouth since first visiting as a child and feel that the people have a strong sense of community spirit. I am looking forward to meeting people from organisations and charities as well attending civic events during the next year”.

NewLord Mayor Coun Mark Shayer and Deputy Lord Mayor Coun Kathy Watkin

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Plymouth-based charity The Rainbow Project sends funds and aid to Romania and other parts of Eastern Europe and worldwide as the need arises.

In the past they have sent aid to a children’s home in Romania as well as a village in the Transylvania region which is populated by the poorest of the Romanian people. More recently they have been sending aid and funds to the Ukrainian refugees in Romania and into Ukraine itself, as well as sending funds to the Turkey and Syria Earthquake Relief Fund.

Their Spring Fayre at their chairperson, Bee’s Home in March was a success. Despite the weather, and winds that threatened to steal the gazebos, they raised a total of £2,000, half of which is for the Turkey and Syria Earthquake Relief Fund.

French Lions enjoy Plymouth hospitality

A group of Lions Club members from Morlaix in France have recently visited Plymouth.

In 1974 the Lions Club of Plymouth twinned with the Lions Club of Morlaix in Brittany. Twinning is known in French as ‘Jumelage’ and there were memorable visits and exchanges for many years, but eventually it sadly came to an end.

At the end of May, however, a group of 11 members and wives from Morlaix came across on the Brittany Ferry to rekindle old friendships and make new ones. The two clubs enjoyed a sociable lunch at Staddon Heights Golf Club where Lions Club of Plymouth President Jill Owen welcomed the Morlaix Lions and expressed the hope that the two clubs might meet annually.

She invited the Morlaix Lions to Plymouth for its 60th Charter next year, and members of the Plymouth Lions are hoping to visit Morlaix next May. The two clubs will then be able to celebrate 50 years since their initial twinning.

Morlaix Lion Michel presented Jill with a book about Morlaix, with an inscription to mark the special reunion.

The event was made possible by an initial enquiry last year by Lion Ian Hill to which Lion René and Lion Ghislain’s responded due to their long relationship with the Plymouth club, and Ghislain was thanked for organising it. Lion Loik impressed everybody with a message in both Breton and Cornish!

Rainbow Project helping the needy in Eastern Europe and

beyond

their sales, the charity does have some other goods for sale in their eBay shop. This can be found at www.charity.ebay. co.uk/charity/i/The-Rainbow-ProjectPlymouth/139558 or by searching for ‘The Rainbow Project Plymouth eBay for Charity.’

Food parcels for the elderly

Also, their four day pop-up Charity Shop held at Plymstock Chapel from May 31 to June 3 raised another £1616

Their next sale will be ther Summer Fayre at their chairperson, Bee’s Home at 7 Furzehatt Way Plymstock PL9 8LP, from Thursday July 20 to Saturday July 22.

They will be open from 10am to 3pm Thursday and Friday and 10am to 2pm on Saturday. There will be all the usual stalls including clothing, jewellery, bric-a-brac, linen, handbags, and shoes, and they will be serving tea and coffee with homemade cakes and lunches available by booking –Call 01752 401260.

There will also be a Silent Auction –details of which will be available soon on their website.

Anyone who can’t make it to one of

The French visitors with members of Plymouth Lions

Cost of living action plan is launched

Plymouth City Council’s new administration is to step up support for families impacted by the rising cost of living, Council Leader Tudor Evans has pledged.

A report to new administration’s first Cabinet meeting outlined the council’s renewed approach to responding to the cost of living crisis, including launching a new cost of living working group to oversee an action plan for supporting those most affected.

The council works closely with a wide range of partners and specialist agencies to identify those who need support, signpost help that is available and work to address the barriers that prevent people receiving all the support they are eligible for

The Cost of Living Action Plan will aim to ensure that all available resources are used in the most effective way to support residents through the crisis and to develop resilience within communities.

The council recently agreed how more than £4.5 million from the Household Support Fund will be used to help more than 34,000 Plymouth households

The funding will support those most likely to be affected including families, single adults and people with disabilities that are on low incomes, pensioners, care experienced young people, unpaid carers and people living in temporary accommodation. Priority will be given to those who are at most at risk of food or fuel poverty.

More than £1.7 million will be used to provide food vouchers during school holidays to families with children that are eligible for free school meals, to the value of £13 per child, per week. This includes this year’s summer holiday, May and October half-terms, Christmas holiday and February 2024 half-term.

A further £750,000 will be distributed to eligible residents in the form of food and fuel vouchers and essential household goods via an application process with Citizens Advice Plymouth. This will be split between multiple rounds of funding, with the first round due to open in early July. Details will be shared on the council’s website.

Councillor Evans said: “The cost of living crisis continues to hit most Plymouth people hard and there’s little sign of things settling down any time soon. Fuel costs, gas and electricity bills, rents, mortgages and the cost of the weekly shop have all been rising.

“We know that many people are struggling to make ends meet and how this can have an impact on all areas of their lives, including their health and wellbeing.

“As a new administration that wants the best for Plymouth residents and for our city, we are prioritising helping people most affected by the rising cost of living. Our action plan will make sure there is a joined up approach with our partners across the city, that help goes where it is needed most and that the impact of the rising cost of living is considered in everything we do as an organisation.

“We will also be fighting to make sure that Plymouth receives the support it needs from the Government.

“This is an urgent issue and there is a lot to do but we are committed to making a difference. We have already ensured funding is in place to support the work of the Cost of Living Working Group, as well as for the ongoing work to address child poverty in the city.”

Plymouth apprentice reaches final of national competition

A painting and decorating apprentice from Plymouth tested her skills against top scorers across the UK at the first ever Grand Final of the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA) Apprentice of the Year competition.

Ysabella Payn, aged 22, is a student at City College Plymouth and an apprentice at Bell Group. She achieved the top score in the Junior category in a regional heat held at North Kent College.

Ysabella battled it out against three other finalists, selected at regional heats in Accrington, Glasgow and Birmingham, at the Grand Final held at Doncaster College and University Centre.

Overall winners and runners-up in Junior and Senior categories will be invited to receive their accolades as part of the PDA Premier Trophy Awards ceremony at Plaisterers’ Hall, London in July.

Andrew Davis of the Association of Painting Craft Teachers (ACPT) judged the finalists’ work alongside PDA Chief Executive, Neil Ogilvie.

Neil said: “The Grand Final event has been a huge success and it has been fantastic to see the level of work produced by these apprentices who are well on their way to a productive career in colour.

“2023 has been a record year for this competition, which has expanded from three regional competition days to four regional heats and a Grand Final this year due to record demand.”

Kevin O’Donnell, senior technical demonstrator at Crown Paints, the main sponsor of the Premier Trophy Awards 2023, said: “Painters and decorators have an unparalleled ability to bring colour, life and character to buildings through their work.

“It’s important that the industry maintains a strong pipeline of enthusiastic, skilled young people working in the trade.

“That’s why we’re incredibly proud to sponsor a competition that supports and nurtures the next generation of talented professionals.”

For more, information visit: www. paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

PUBLIC NOTICE

MARINE AND COASTAL ACCESS ACT 2009 APPLICATION FOR PLYMOUTH SOUND BREAKWATER MAINTENANCE

Notice is hereby given that Babcock International, Plymouth has applied to the Marine Management Organisation under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, Part 4, for a marine licence to undertake maintenance of Plymouth sound breakwater, including casting and depositing concrete blocks.

Copies of the application and associated information may be viewed online in the Public Register at: www.gov.uk/check-marine-licence-register.

Representations in respect of the application should ordinarily be made by:

• Visiting the MMO public register at https://marinelicensing.marinemanagement.org.uk/mmofox5/fox/liv e/MMO_PUBLIC_REGISTER/search?area=3 and accessing the `Public Representation? section of case reference MLA/2023/00119;

However, we will also accept representations via the following formats:

• By email to marine.consents@marinemanagement.org.uk; or alternatively

• By letter addressed to Marine Management Organisation, Lancaster House, Hampshire Court, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7YH

In all cases, correspondence must:

• Be received within 28 days of the date of the first notice (17/06/2023);

• Quote the case reference; and

• include an address to which correspondence relating to the representation or objection may be sent.

Ysabella Payn

Funky Llama project celebrates 10th anniversary with 10 special events

Funky Llama, Theatre Royal Plymouth’s flagship project for disabled adults, is celebrating its 10th year with a range of special events during 2023. During the year 10 events will be taking place to mark the milestone.

Funky Llama is TRP’s platform for disabled adults to develop wellbeing, reduce isolation and enhance life skills as well as raising aspirations, creating opportunities and challenging perceptions.

The project started life as a six-month pilot in 2010, culminating in a sell-out cabaret night in The Drum Theatre.

In April 2013, Funky Llama was launched as a project thanks to Esmée Fairbairn funding.

The first club night – an inclusive nightclub event – was also held in 2013, transforming TR2 through a takeover of the building.

In the lead up to the event, TRP worked with Plymouth Music Zone and Attik 360 to mentor disabled artists and DJs to perform.

The project then secured National Lottery Funding, and a steering group was set up to help improve the accessibility and inclusivity of events such as festivals and nightclubs.

The first Funky Llama Festival took place in May 2014 in the TR2 car park. The event featured national and local performers, community workshops and stalls from service providers in the city.

Year on year, the learning around delivering inclusive and accessible events grew. Funky Llama worked closely with disabled and nondisabled performers to explore accessible ways of programming performances, whilst always considering access for festival goers.

In 2015, TRP ran a national conference at TR2 called ‘Differently Abled Driving Change.’ This was an opportunity for service providers, practitioners, artists and anyone interested in inclusive arts in the South West to come together to share best quality practice.

The conference featured presentations, open forum discussions and practical workshops led by some of the UK’s most innovative disabled-led arts organisations. Another key milestone of the Funky Llama project was the launch of the ‘buddies’ scheme, which sees a disabled and nondisabled person paired up to attend events.

First piloted in 2015, it took inspiration from the Stay Up Late campaign and Gig Buddies

initiative in Brighton. Funky Llama started with three buddies and this evolved with each event. TRP has worked with 12 buddies in total and they are coming back together this year to attend the various events taking place.

Many disabled artists have been supported by Funky Llama over the past decade. Luke Lundin won an emerging artist commission with Drake Music, Ally Bryan composed the music for the Green Space Dark Skies film and Spike Brooks is presenting his play about his experience of autism in The Lab at TRP this Summer.

Some of the events that are taking place this year to mark the 10th year are a Cabaret Night in The Drum in June, a Club Night at Pryzm Nightclub in October and a circus residency in November, in collaboration with Extraordinary Bodies.

Funky Llama participant Spike Brooks said: “Funky Llama is a platform for people to be who they want to be and an example of what the disabled community can do. We are thrilled to have been a part of this movement for 10 years.”

Sara Rhodes, associate director for Co-

Curated and Outdoor Work, said: “Funky Llama has been a significant project for the Theatre and the disabled community in Plymouth, the South West and nationally.

“From its conception, the project has been co-created with the most incredible team of people who bring their own experiences and knowledge to the table. This team, which has grown over the years, passionately advocate for inclusive and accessible, innovative and joyful activities and events that people have come to know and love as Funky Llama. I don’t think we could’ve anticipated 10 years on, the impact this project has had.

“The learning of the Funky Llama project has transferred into the makeup of how we do things in the theatre too, putting lived experience front and centre. It’s had an impact on access performances, on our website and flyers, relaxed performances, collaborations with companies such as Graeae and Extraordinary Bodies and our inclusive practice in community work.”

To find out more about Funky Llama’s 10 year celebrations, visit www.theatreroyal. com/take-part/funky-llama

Helplines

Vivien Pengelly ‘will be sorely missed’

Political leaders in Plymouth have paid tribute to former Council Leader and Lord Mayor of Plymouth Vivien Pengelly, following the sad news that she has passed away.

Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Mark Shayer, said:”This is very sad news and all our thoughts are with Vivien’s family at this time. Vivien was an important force in political life in Plymouth for many years and was loved and respected by so many people across the city. She will be sorely missed.

“Vivien leaves a strong legacy in Plymouth. She led the council during a critical period and her enthusiasm and determination helped deliver positive change to the council and to the city, not least with the development of the Plymouth Life Centre, a project which she was passionate about.”

A former teacher in London, Sydney and at Laira Green Primary School, Vivien first became a city councillor in May 1989. Apart from a short period between 1995 and 1997, she has served on the council ever since and represented the Plymstock Dunstone ward. She was the first female Leader of the council, holding the post between 2007 and 2012, an important period in the council’s transformation, and served as Lord Mayor of Plymouth between 2013 and 2014.

Throughout her political career Vivien tirelessly championed better sports and leisure facilities for the city and was a high profile supporter of

all sports in Plymouth. A season ticket holder at both Plymouth Argyle and at Plymouth Raiders basketball, she was a regular sight at both clubs, cheering on the teams.

She was always up for a challenge and when the America’s Cup World Series came to the city, Vivien donned a helmet and enjoyed a thrilling ride on a high-tech catamarans with some of the best sailors in the world.

She took great pride in her city and led the organisation of a number of large celebrations of sporting achievements.

When Plymouth Argyle were promoted to the first division, she arranged an open top bus tour and a civic reception, personally working many hours to make the arrangements.

After Plymouth Argyle went into administration in 2011, Vivien was instrumental in a council decision to support the club by buying the freehold of Home Park and leasing it back to the club.

Many Plymouth Argyle supporters paid tribute on social media to Vivien’s role in helping save the club. Prominent Argyle supporter Graham Clark wrote: “I was with Peter Ryan when we met Vivien in the Council House just after the club we went into administration. She said to us ‘Don’t worry I will not let the club die’. It is rare these days that politicians are true to their word. I firmly believe that her actions working with James Brent did more than anyone to safeguard the future of the club.

“She was a true Argyle supporter preferring to sit in the Lyndhurst than in the Director’s Box. It was never about her but more what she could do for others. Her natural warmth and affection was all embracing. She will be sadly missed.”

As Council Leader Vivien provided strong leadership for both the council and the city at a time of significant challenge. Her friendly and determined approach helped the council build strong partnerships across all sectors.

In 2010, during her period as leader, the council was crowned as the Best Achieving Council of the Year by the Municipal Journal, the top award in local government.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “I’m saddened to hear of Vivien’s passing. She has been so influential in Plymouth politics and civic life for so long, it’s hard to imagine council without her. Her five years of leadership saw her guiding the council to the MJ’s Best Achieving Council award and of course the Life Centre, her enduring legacy.”

Conservative Group leader Councillor Andrew Lugger said: “We are all greatly saddened by this news and her loss will be deeply felt by the many people that knew and loved her.

“I first met Vivien at the beginning of the 1990s and after coming back to politics after 20 years, she was the first to welcome me back. She was always available to give help and supported my leadership election. I really cannot imagine the council without her.

“Vivien was well-liked and respected across the political spectrum and will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her and worked with her.”

Outside political life, Vivien enjoyed spending time with her family, including five grandchildren.

As well as swimming and walking, she enjoyed the theatre and travelling.

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Gables has been helping the regions unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats since 1907. We take in and care for nearly 1000 cats and dogs every year.

We are a non-euthanasia charity, which means no healthy animal in our care is put to sleep. We receive no Government funding so rely completely on the generosity and support of the public through donations and legacies. We need your help to care for unwanted and aban doned animals in your local area.

Any donation, large or small, would make a significant difference to the work we do and will help to protect our future.

Vivien Pengelly pictured during her time as Leader of the Council