Plymouth Chronicle June East 2024

UK BREAKS

Departing Mon 19 Aug ‘24

Join us on this lovely short break to beautiful Yorkshire, where we combine the rolling hills, panoramic landscapes and charming towns of the Yorkshire Dales with the historic city of York. Don’t miss out on optional trips to Knaresborough and Harrogate to complete our delightfully scenic getaway.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at the Britannia Hotel, Leeds Bradford Airport (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

 Excursions to Skipton Market, Grassington & York

Optional excursion to Knaresborough & Harrogate (£14pp)

5 Days by Coach only

Departing Mon 2 Sep ‘24

Ey up All Creatures Great and Small fans! Come and discover the world of legendary vet and popular author, James Herriot. Our celebration of Yorkshire continues with visits to charming Ripon and picture-perfect Haworth plus a Leeds & Liverpool Canal cruise.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at the Corn Mill Lodge Hotel, near Leeds with dinner & breakfast

 Cruise on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal

 Excursions to the World of James Herriot Museum, Thirsk, Ripon, Skipton & Haworth

Optional excursion to Harrogate & York (£13pp)

Departing Mon 9 Sep ‘24

The beautiful county of Norfolk is characterised by charming seaside towns, and unspoilt coastline.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at a selected hotel, Great Yarmouth (JG2+ rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Entertainment some evenings (at the Nelson and Waverley Hotels only)

 Heritage train journeys on the North Norfolk Railway & Bure Valley Railway

 Mississippi paddle steamer cruise on the Norfolk Broads

 Excursion to Cromer & Wroxham

Optional excursion to Norwich (£14pp)

5 Days by Coach only £

Plymouth’s Paul Soley embarks on gruelling mega triathlon

Plymouth resident Paul Soley has embarked on a monumental ‘reverse triathlon’ in support of Plymouth Samaritans.

Paul started his adventure by running the London Marathon in April and he will then embark on the gruelling L’Etape du Tour on July 7 where he will be one of 15,000 amateur cyclists riding the 20th stage of the Tour de France between Nice and the Col de Couillole.

L’Etape is a 138 km route with more than 4,600 metres of ascent including the climbs of Col be Braus and Col de la Colmiane.

Paul will finish his reverse triathlon with the River Dart 10 kilometre swim in September.

Paul said: “I am proud to be undertaking these exciting challenges and raising money for Plymouth Samaritans. They are a much-needed resource. If I can do anything to raise funds that will keep a Samaritan on the end of a phone for someone who is in desperate need, then I’m all for it.”

Anyone wishing to support Paul with a donation can visit his Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/page/paul-soleysamaritans-2024

Plymouth-based Royal Navy chef is named best in the Services

A Royal Navy chef from Plymouth has been named the best in the Armed Forces after showing exceptional skill and unwavering commitment while deployed on operations.

Petty Officer Cat Taylor was singled out after patrol ship HMS Trent was widely praised for the quality of its food, especially in challenging or unusual locations – the ship was deployed to West Africa last autumn and has been in Caribbean since December.

Cat, originally from Weston-Super-Mare but now living with her family in Plymouth, was crowned Armed Forces Caterer of the Year 2024 at the prestigious Public Sector Awards in London.

“I’m still in complete shock if I’m honest, but I am honoured to have been nominated for the award and absolutely blown away by winning,” said Cat, who was named Royal Navy Caterer of the Year in February and subsequently put forward for the Armed Forces prize.

“I can’t take all the credit though; my team onboard Trent have been truly amazing, and I couldn’t have done what I have without their dedication and support… and also, my mum and daughter for always motivating me to keep doing what I love.”

Newly-appointed Fleet Caterer, Warrant Officer George Mee, noted Cat’s leadership and unwavering commitment as she and her team upheld exceptional standards of excellence even during challenging deployments – and the complexities of operating off the coast of West Africa.

“Despite limited support and supply obstacles, her innovative menus and the team’s evident passion for catering have set a new benchmark for excellence,” George said.

“It is an honour to commend Petty Officer Taylor for her outstanding dedications and hard work, which reflect the highest standards of the Royal Navy Catering Services specialisation.”

George also recognised Cat’s contributions to her unit, branch and the Royal Navy as a whole after edging out fellow chefs from the RAF and British Army to win the top prize.

With only around 50 sailors typically on-board Trent and five caterers, Cat performs one shift in four in the galley alongside her tight-knit team, who are expected to provide three hot meals for shipmates 365 days a year.

She’s also the driving force behind ensuring the finest food is served to guests for the many defence engagement duties the patrol ship performs on patrol, where Trent and her sailors are ‘roaming ambassadors’ for the UK on an almost weekly basis.

Cat joined the Royal Navy 18 years ago at the age of 17 and has served extensively at sea – almost exclusively in Plymouth-based

Petty Officer Cat Taylor - Armed Forces Caterer of the Year

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.

Car Boot Sale

Sundays

Coypool Park and Ride, Plymouth. Open for sellers from 7am and buyers from 8am. Cars £8, vans £10. Free parking for buyers. Toilets on site and dogs welcome on leads. All entry fees collected go to Colebrook Community Centre, a small local charity.

Summer Fayre

May 18

Eggbuckland Hall, St Edward’s Church, Eggbuckland from 2pm to 4pm. Plant sale, children’s activities, refreshments, baked goods, jams, toiletries, chocolate, raffle, crafts, Dartmoor meats, eggs and veg. In aid of church funds.

One for the ladies!

May 18

Ladies bowls morning between 10am and 12 noon at Plymstock Bowling Club, Furzehatt Road, Plymstock. All ladies (and partners if they would like) to come along and try both outdoor lawn bowling and indoor short mat bowling at this friendly club. No experience necessary, just take along a pair of flat soled shoes or trainers. Refreshments supplied. For more information contact Chris on 07956877688 or email info@ plymstockbowlingclub.co.uk

Spring Fayre

May 18

St Francis Church Hall, Honicknowle from 12 noon to 2pm. Various stalls, including tombola, gifts and grannie’s attic. Tea/coffee and light refreshments.

Pasty and Quiz Night

May 25

Ford Park Cemetery at 7pm. Tickets £10. To book call 01752 665442.

Sleeping with the Sharks

May 25

Join the National Marine Aquarium in an unforgettable sleepover, where guests will get to experience what happens after dark in the underwater world! Explore the aquarium after hours and see whales, stingrays, fishes, jellyfish and more all while getting involved with games, crafts and even some exhibition tours! The night will also include a number of educational opportunities. Then enjoy a movie on the big screen before tucking in and settling down for bed in front of the Eddystone Reef tank which contains fantastic local species such as sharks, crabs, lobsters and eels! Details at www.national-aquarium.co.uk/events/ sleeping-with-sharks-at-the-aquarium

Green Man Weekend

May 25 and 26

Fantastic mix of entertainment provided by local bands circus acts, Morris Dancers, re-enactment groups and much more ay Mount Edgcumbe. Traditional family activities will be running throughout the event along with food and craft stalls, bouncy castles, beer tent and much more. Details at www. mountedgcumbe.gov.uk

Freedom Community Festival Day

May 26

This year’s one-day event from 11am to 6pm will feature a folk/acoustic line up of local music including the Freedom Fields Ceilidh Band, Andy Quick, Dr Thuds Remedy, Matthew North, Modern life, The Spectacles, The Ukeabillies and Mad Rush. This year will also feature a dedicated local history tent hosted by Old Plymouth society. This will be focused on events linked to Freedom Fields Park and the siege of Plymouth during the English Civil War. Plus all the other usual family friendly attractions, craft stalls,

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

catering, inflatables and community information stalls. For details call 07722308462.

Flavour Fest

May 31 to Jun 2

The south west’s largest food and drink festival returns to Plymouth city centre for its 20th anniversary. This year’s event will be even bigger and better, featuring an exciting new entertainment zone where visitors can kick back and relax, soak up the atmosphere of live music and enjoy amazing food. Over 80 stalls of fantastic local produce, tasting sessions and, new for this year, bookable masterclasses, workshops, themed demonstrations and children’s activities, to mark the anniversary. Details at www.flavourfestsw.co.uk/

Charity Murder Mystery Evening

May 31

Candlelight Murder Mystery present the event in aid of the Samaritans Plymouth at Plympton Conservative Club at 7pm. Tickets £35 including a two course meal. Call Vanessa or Suzanne on 07942 740759 or email shooper2021@gmail.com for details and tickets.

Monsters and Magic Concert

Jun 1

A free themed music concert presented by the University of Plymouth Orchestra at the Davy Hall on the Plymouth University campus. Children’s concert from 3pm, all welcome. Evening concert at 7.30pm. Concerts to include music from Harry Potter, Night on a Bare Mountain and Concerto for Two Clarinets. Admission and refreshments free but donations welcome. Tickets can be booked www.plymouth.ac.uk/ whats-on

Coffee Morning

Jun 1

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12noon. Various stalls in aid of Shelter - the housing and homelessness charity. All welcome.

Caribbean Family Fun Day

Jun 2

Mount Edgcumbe Country Park from 10.30am to 4pm. Featuring steel band and live music, dancing, Caribbean street food, children’s entertainment, craft stalls, rum and cocktail bar and much more. Tickets at www.missivyevents.co.uk

Miles Jupp on Tour

Jun 4

Stand-up comedian, actor and writer Miles Jupp brings his On I Bang tour to the Main Hall at Plymouth University at 7.30pm. Tickets available from www. comicalentertainment.com

models. These are supported by model railways and traders selling models and accessories. The Centre is disabled friendly and also has a cafe onsite. Admission adults £5, concessions £3 and families £10. Further details from Ken Cork, 01752 258604 or email: ekcork@btinternet.com

Shark Month

Throughout July

A month-long partnership between Royal William Yard and the Shark Trust will see a host of events and activities on various dates during July. Featuring Oceanic 31 Exhibition, Family Art Activities at Ocean Studios, Shark Quiz Night, Jaws at Everyman Cinema and much more. Full details at www.royalwilliamyard. com/shark-month

The Devil Wears Pre-Loved Fashion Show

Jul 6

Charity show in aid of The Primrose Foundation. An afternoon dedicated to recognising and highlighting the benefits of purchasing pre-loved good-quality clothing at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel from 12 noon. Tickets include welcome drink and two course lunch. Visit www.www.primrosefoundation.org/event-tickets/ the-devil-wears-pre-loved-fashion-show

Summer Fair

Jul 6

Open Day

June 12

At the Royal British Legion Plympton & District Club from 12 noon. Usual stalls, attractions, entertainment, grand draw and barbecue. Free entry all welcome. Plymouth Hope Festival

Jun 15

Annual family fun day festival in Victoria Park from 10am to 5pm. Now the city largest multicultural festival and one of the largest in the region. Celebrating diversity in the community through sports, music, games, art, children play, and food from around the world.

Plymouth Motor Show

Jun 15 and 16

Albion Oaks Rugby Club, Staddiscombe from 10am to 6pm each day. Admission £5 per day. Children under 16 free. Discover a wide range of vehicles on display, from classic cars to modern marvels. Enter precious pets into the Paws4Proceeds Fun Dog Show, with a wide range of catergories, to suit everyone on both days, so giving four-legged friends, a chance to win that much deserved rosette. Registration from 11am, but will except entrants up to the start of each class all classes £1.50 per dog per class. A real treat for all car enthusiasts with food and refreshments available.

Sea Themed Concert

Jun 22

Plymouth Plymouth Philharmonic Choir are offering a sea themed soundscape with a concert at 4pm at the Minster Church of St Andrew, Plymouth. They will be performing Carter’s Horizons and Stanford’s Songs of the Sea. The choir will be joined by soloists Elinor Chapman (Soprano) and Mark Boocock (Baritone). The choir are also delighted to welcome children from the Fletewood School to sing a selection of Sea Shanties Tickets £18 in advance or £20 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from wegottickets. com/event/596024 †or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, please visit plymouthphilchoir.org

Plymouth Model and Railway Show

Jun 30

The show will be held at the John Kitto YMCA Centre from 10am to 4pm. Features include a D-Day 80 display along with local and south west model clubs displaying a large range of static and radio controlled

St Boniface Church, Percy Street, St Budeaux from 10am to 12 noon. Good choice of stalls including tombolas, homemade jams and chutneys, cakes and plants. Delicious refreshments and a grand draw. Something for everyone.

St Luke’s Midnight Walk

July 12

The iconic Midnight Walk fundraiser returns with three route options - three miles, six miles or 13.1 miles. The whole family is invited, from young children, teenagers and prams through to seasoned long-distance striders of all ages. This year the walk will start from the Plymouth Argyle Fan Zone at Home Park with a pre-walk warm up from Clubbercise. Details and registration at www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/midnight-walk/

RNLI Concert

July 19 and 20

The Down Thomas Singers are dedicating their two night Summer Concerts to the RNLI as it is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. The concert ‘A Grand Night for Singing’ held at the Silver Jubilee Hall, Down Thomas, on July 19 and 20 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £6 each with light refreshments and free parking. The music is light and romantic for a summer evening with maybe a Sea Shanty for the worthwhile cause! There’s always a good raffle and closing bucket donations. Tickets available from Secretary June on 01752 299204.

Plymouth Gang Show

July 25 to 27

The Plymouth Scout & Guide Gang Show will be performing at The Devonport Playhouse from July 25 to 27 at 7.30pm with a matinee on the Saturday at 2.30pm. Adults £12 Concessions £10 For more information please contact Andrew on 07810 880536 or go to www.ticketsource.co.uk/plymouth-scout-andguide-gang-show

Falklands Charity Ride

Aug 4

Raising funds for the SAMA82 charity. £5 per bike. Depart Westwood Inn, Lee Mill at 10am finishing with welcome party on Plymouth Hoe at 12 noon. There will be refreshments and charity stalls along with entertainment for children. To register or for further details contact 07714 561287.

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 iconic St Luke’s Midnight Walk returns on July 12 starting from Home Park

A student at Arts University Plymouth has secured a six-week summer internship at the world-renowned Wave Murano Glass in Venice.

Mature student Michele Azzopardi, who is studying BA (Hons) Craft & Material Practice, joined Arts University Plymouth in 2022. He approached the internationallyacclaimed glass factory in the hope of learning from the world-leading masters of hot glass and advancing his professional development between the first and second years of his degree.

Funding for the Wave Murano internship comes from the Turing Scheme, the UK’s programme for supporting students to take advantage of the personal and professional development opportunities offered by studying, working and living abroad.

Michele said: “I could not be more excited about this opportunity to learn from one of the most prestigious hot glass studios in the world. I’ve been following Wave Murano on Instagram and expect it to be an incredibly busy commercial glass environment, working long days in the public eye.

“The Venice Biennale will be opening while I’m there, with opportunities to experience new work by some of the world’s most influential artists. And alongside the chance to learn from experts at Wave Murano, there’ll be scope for me to create personal work in the evenings, which I’m sure will help me to advance my personal practice at an accelerated pace.”

Speaking of the funding for his trip to Venice, Michele said: “I hadn’t heard of the Turing Scheme before receiving an email about briefings for funded international trips. I went along to find out what was available and learned that I could apply for funding that could cover the cost of my flights and a monthly stipend towards living costs.

“That really takes the pressure off. I don’t think there’s any way that I could afford to

and study in Venice for

Michele Azzopardi

Plans for second chess congress are announced

Plymouth Chess Club has announced plans for a second major chess congress after the success of the first held in 2023.

The event, known as the Plymouth Schools Swiss Tournament is open to all primary and secondary age students and will take place at Plymouth College on June 22.

Alan Crickmore, president of the club, said: “We know there are many more students, both boys and girls, playing chess in schools and our objective is to encourage these groups and what better way than to hold a congress, which will be free to enter.

“There are many advantages playing chess: it appears to improve logical thinking, academic performance, confidence, patience, a sense of fair play and above all the opportunity to meet and communicate with new friends.”

The congress will have different age groups including Under 18, 15, 13,11, and 9. There will be prizes and certificates in each section of the competition. The event will have 30 minute rounds starting at 9.30am with regular breaks for refreshments. Free light refreshments will be available.

Further information about the competition is being sent to all Plymouth schools in the coming weeks.

Alan added: “Our overall aim is to generate more chess in schools, have a successful on-line inter-school league and ultimately to encourage more students to join the Plymouth Chess Club.

Graduate

shows

Arts University Plymouth’s Tavistock Place campus, between The Box and Drake Circus, will be open to members of the public from Friday June 21 to Thursday June 27 for the main undergraduate Graduate Shows

This event offers a once-a-year opportunity to look around the University of the Year for South West England, as voted for by students, and see examples of the very best work created by graduating students who are completing a wide range of creative qualifications, from BA (Hons) Interior Design & Styling and BA (Hons) Costume Production to BA (Hons) Film & Screen Arts and BA (Hons) Graphic Design. BA (Hons). Fashion Design students will be showcasing their work at Royal William Yard’s Ocean Studios for a catwalk fashion show on Friday July 5. For more details visit www.aup.ac.uk

New Boots pharmacy opens for Derriford Hospital outpatients

Outpatients who need medication following a hospital appointment will now benefit from a new Boots pharmacy facility, which opened at the beginning of April.

Derriford’s outpatient pharmacy faced growing demand with nearly 3000 items dispensed every week meaning it had outgrown its previous space.

The new Boots pharmacy is located adjacent to the multi-storey car park and next door Costa.

Derriford’s chief pharmacist and clinical director of medicines optimisation, Kandarp Thakkar, said: “We’re delighted to officially open today and are

confident that thousands of patients who use this service every week will have a much improved service. In addition, through our partnership with Boots, there will also be every day items that visitors and staff can purchase.”

Ashley Littlewood-Miller, national hospitals manager said: “We’re thrilled to be open and are excited to see our partnership with the Trust develop and look forward to welcoming patients.”

Attending the opening, Jim Griffiths, chair of the Patient Council said: “The Patient Council is delighted to see the opening of the new Pharmacy

When former Plymouth Argyle physiotherapist Paul Maxwell turned 50 years old in July 2023, he decided to set himself a challenge – not only for his body, but his mind too. He promised to run a half marathon, every week of the following year.

Paul hopes it will raise awareness about improving your mental health, as well as raising money to improve facilities for patients and staff at Livewell Southwest and Devon Mind. His goal was to raise £2000 but he has since smashed that target.

Paul said: “It started on my own and it has developed to a good group of 20 people. We have currently raised around £8,500 so hopefully we are going to try and target £10,000.

“We are using the title ‘change the tape’, trying to change the thought process of your mind. Step into the unknown. Keep challenging yourself everyday and genuinely be kind and be a good person.”

Livewell Southwest’s chief operating officer Ian Lightley joined him for run number 39 – a very windy and rainy 13 miles around Burrator on Dartmoor. Ian said: “It is the first time I have run this far. I really enjoyed it. It was great to talk to everyone along the way. They all have a personal story to tell about how mental health has affected their lives in some way. Paul has been quite open about his own journey. I think it is helping him, but also it is helping a lot of other people along the way as well.”

Paul is inviting anyone to join him on the remaining runs. “You don’t have to run a half marathon. You can run 5k, 10k, whatever you want. Just come and

facility at Derriford Hospital. The extra space available at the site, longer opening times, and the option for patients to collect their prescriptions at their local Boots branches will, we believe, significantly improve the patient experience.”

The new outpatient pharmacy will open on Saturdays, offering a convenient and modern service to patients.

Patients will now have the option to collect medicines from their local pharmacy through the Boots network in Plymouth and the surrounding areas.

Paul Maxwell (left) pictured with Ian Lightley of Livewell Soutwest

Image by Med Ahabchane from Pixabay

A Plymouth waitress has been presented with a prestigious award after going to the aid of an elderly customer during a medial emergency.

Tori-Lee Brown, who works at Platters Fish Restaurant on the Barbican, was presented with the Hearts of Hospitality Award after being nominated by Geoffrey Rogers whose 86-year-old friend suffered a fall and injury.

The nomination read: ‘Despite the challenging circumstances of his friend’s fall and subsequent injury, Tori demonstrated remarkable poise, promptly attending to the situation, and ensuring necessary medical attention was sought without delay. Her maturity and calmness under pressure, particularly at the young age of 20, stood as a beacon of exemplary service to others.’

Geoffrey Rogers commented: “Not many individuals, let alone someone as young as Tori, could handle such a situation with such grace and efficiency. Her quick thinking and compassionate response were truly commendable.”

Following an independent panel decision, Tori-Lee Brown was presented with the ‘Hearts in Hospitality’ award by Max Lawrence from the Institute of Hospitality’s Hospitality Assured programme.

Max Lawrence said: “Tori’s dedication to service and her compassionate response in a critical moment exemplify the core values of hospitality, making her a deserving recipient of the ‘Hearts in Hospitality’ award.”

Waitress Tori-Lee Brown pictured with her award, which was presented to her by Max Lawrence

City MP slams South West Water after big increase in sewage spills

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard has slammed South West Water’s ‘utter disregard for public health’ after latest figures revealed that sewage spills in Plymouth rose by almost a third in 2023.

Luke Pollard says the Government is ‘turning a blind eye to raw sewage dumping, after Environment Agency figures showed that 15,239 hours of sewage was pumped into rivers and seas from storm outflow sites in Plymouth from 3,268 spills – an average of nine spills a day. Across the South West, there was an eye-watering 83% increase in total hours spilt from 58,249 discharges.

Across England, last year was worst for sewage spills since records began. Sewage was discharged for an eyewatering record 3.6 million hours across England in 2023 –more than double the previous year.

South West Water ranked second highest among all water companies for sewage spills, with an average of 43.4 sewage spills per storm overflow, trailing only behind United Utilities with 45.4 spills.

The Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP has actively fought for protective measures to address sewage spills in Plymouth, leading a successful 18 month-long campaign for Devil’s Point and Firestone Bay to be designated as an official bathing water. The bathing spot was recently rated ‘excellent’ by the Environment Agency in December 2023.

Luke Pollard said: “The levels of raw sewage being recklessly pumped into our rivers, lakes and seas is sickening. Despite South West Water bosses claiming they are addressing the issue, sewage spills have soared to unprecedented levels.

“This is a glaring failure of the Government to hold water companies responsible for turning a blind eye to raw sewage dumping. Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, deserves better than this utter disregard for public health.”

City College wins bid to become part of pioneering ‘Skills for Nuclear’ network

City College Plymouth has won its bid to become part of a pioneering initiative to equip people with the skills to enter the nuclear industry.

The college has gained approval to join the National College for Nuclear (NCfN) network, positioning itself as one of just two providers in the South West. Alongside Bridgwater & Taunton College, it will play a crucial role in equipping individuals with the essential skills required to contribute to the growth of the evolving nuclear sector.

The NCfN is a cornerstone of the Government’s response to nuclear skills provision, and the college will help meet the capacity and capability employers in the sector need.

The college had to go through a rigorous process to win the right to be part of the network. It means that by September the college will deliver a nuclear skills suite of programmes that meet the needs of local, regional and national organisations across both the defence and power generation (civil) nuclear sectors.

The UK’s nuclear sector is growing rapidly, with numbers in the civil and defence workforce estimated to double over the next 20 years, bringing around 80,000 additional jobs across the UK.

The Government has recognised an urgent need to ramp up recruitment activity in the sector, but also that developing people’s skills in a wide range of disciplines which feed into the nuclear sector is needed if demand is to be met.

Jackie Grubb, chief executive of City College Plymouth, said the programmes

would focus on the careers and jobs within the nuclear sector, providing students with access to world-class learning opportunities that enhance their skills relevant to the industry.

She added: “City College Plymouth actively collaborates with the defence sector, equipping this essential workforce with the necessary skills for safeguarding our nation’s at-sea security. Recognising the critical role played by our nuclear submarine fleet, the college is committed to providing comprehensive training covering all aspects of this highly sophisticated machinery, including its intricate nuclear power system.

“As a proud member of the National College for Nuclear network, we will gain valuable insights into the specific requirements for delivering both nuclear-related skills and comprehensive expertise to meet the demands of our defence sector.

“We will be able to exchange best practices through working closely with Bridgewater & Taunton College to ensure that our workforce is thoroughly prepared and capable of addressing the challenges posed by the evolving needs of our national defence.”

Jenny Ashworth, managing director at the National College for Nuclear said: “We are delighted to welcome City College Plymouth to the NCfN family. At such an exciting and vital time for the nuclear and zero carbon sectors, we are thrilled to build upon the NCfN network with such a pioneering and dynamic institution such as City College Plymouth. We look forward to working closely with the team there to further build upon our ability to build a competent and agile workforce for the sector.”

The Government has also launched a campaign called Destination Nuclear, working with partners to fill critical skills gaps in the nuclear industry. The ambition is for nuclear power to generate a quarter of the UK’s electricity by 2050.

Plus, the Government has recently announced that one of the UK’s ballistic submarines, HMS Victorious, will be modernised in Plymouth by Babcock International under a new £560m contract. The move - announced by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps - will create around 1,000 jobs in the region.

Law firm’s bumper donation to city charity

A Plymouth charity has received a cheque for £13,000 after a two-year fundraising drive by city law firm Womble Bond Dickinson.

The donation from the firm’s Plymouth office went to its charity partner, Promoting Children in Plymouth (PCiP)

PCiP is a project of the Plymouth Drake Foundation, which aims to eradicate the social injustice, ill-health and misery caused by child poverty in the city. The charity works with schools and communities to provide children with opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.

WBD’s Plymouth office has supported PCiP with various fundraising activities, including raffles, quizzes and a charity ball. Through the money raised, the doors have been opened for a group of children to experience a residential week at Michael Morpurgo’s Farms for City Children and facilitated a series of family cooking workshops.

The firm also donated a book vending machine to St Peter’s CE Primary School in Stonehouse, as part of PCiP’s Story Telling and Book Gifting project, which encourages children to read for pleasure. Lawyers from the firm also volunteered to take part in storytelling sessions with pupils and gifted books to 27 primary schools in Plymouth.

Kerry Bidewell, development manager at Promoting Children in Plymouth, said: “We are extremely grateful to WBD for their generous support over the last two years.

Their donation has made a huge difference to the lives of children in Plymouth, who face some of the highest levels of deprivation in the country.

“Thanks to WBD, we have been able to provide children with access to books, education and enrichment activities, which help them to develop their skills, confidence and aspirations.”

WBD welcomed Kerry to its Plymouth office to hand over a cheque and celebrate the partnership. The firm is now looking for a new charity partner for its Plymouth office, as part of its responsible business strategy, which focuses on supporting social mobility, education and the environment.

Womble Bond Dickinson’s Nikki Jonas (left) presents the bumper cheque to Kerry Bidewell from Promoting Children in Plymouth

Luke Pollard MP swimming off Devil’s Point

A new health and Wellbeing centre is now open in the grounds of a historic mansion near Plymouth and ready to take referrals to the day service.

The day service provision, at Pearn Estate, in Hartley, will lay on social activities as well hot meals and refreshments. The Well Being Centre will also offering services like a disabled friendly shower facility, Arjo Spa Bath, hairdresser, consultation rooms for health professionals, all of these are in addition to the Day Service so can be accessed separately.

The aim is to boost services on offer for adults in the region at a time when many health services in the region are being stretched.

Nicola Williams, who will manage the new facility for Network Healthcare, part of the Pertemps Network Group, said: “This is very exciting for all of us. Since the pandemic, services have changed and a lot more is being asked of families to support vulnerable people.

“We think this is a much-needed service for Plymouth, offering a homely atmosphere with our experienced staff. We are hoping to create a valuable centre to support local people.”

Network Healthcare is a national Care Quality Commission registered company which already runs a number of services in Plymouth, including a child contact centre and social care community projects.

The Pearn is a Grade II listed building dating back to the 1890s.

For more information, visit www.networkhsc.co.uk

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Talented young dancers head for regional final of All England Dance

Two dance students from Plymouth have qualified to compete in the All England Dance regional final at Cheltenham this month.  The organisation is committed to nurturing and developing the talents of exceptionally gifted individuals in the field of dance.

old.  She is now 12 and has qualified for her lyrical solo in the All England Dance regional final. She said “I’m excited to get the opportunity to perform and be able to watch all the talent from across the region.”   Their teacher and principal of The Dance Shed, Melissa Fensom will be

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PUBLIC NOTICE Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence

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Amelie Murray and Darcey Holden both train at The Dance Shed in Plymstock and regularly take part in regional dance competitions throughout the year. This entails undertaking extra training on top of their regular classes in tap, ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary and musical theatre in order to learn a dance and perfect it to the point where it is ready to be performed and judged by an adjudicator.

Dancers need to gain a certain mark in order to qualify for the All England regional finals and compete to win a place in the national final which takes place later this year.

This year 11-year-old Amelie has qualified with her musical theatre piece, modern dance solo, lyrical solo and her tap solo.

She has been a student at The Dance Shed since 2020 and said: “I’m really pleased that I managed to qualify with four of my dances for the all England semi-finals. I am excited to take part for the first time as I really enjoy the pieces I will be performing. I think it’s going to be such a memorable experience. I love dancing at The Dance Shed and Melissa and Sonja have really helped to teach me with some brilliant dances.”

Darcey has been a student of The Dance Shed since the school began and she was just three years

accompanying them and providing support.  She said: “I am incredibly proud of both of them. They are extremely dedicated and talented students and we work very hard as a team so to reach this point is a great achievement for all of us.  We are very excited to take part and looking forward to the whole experience.”

This is a special year for The Dance Shed as it is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Melissa who is originally from Plymouth and trained and worked professionally in performing arts started the school in 2014 with just a small handful of students and has carefully nurtured it into a vibrant and popular school.

Melissa has two other teachers in her team who coach around 150 students ranging in age from three to 80 plus years.  Their classes are designed first and foremost to be fun and enjoyable.

“We are firm believers that a child thrives on encouragement and praise and this, together with developing self-discipline forms the basis of our approach to teaching,” added Melissa. “We don’t just teach children though – we have a thriving community of adult dancers too!  Our aim is to maximise a student’s confidence, coordination, self-expression and appreciation of music within the framework of the performing arts.”

The school offers a wide variety of classes to choose from and they cater for all abilities and all levels of ambition so any child or adult who wants to learn more skills and cultivate existing ones or find out how to book free trial classes can visit their website at www.the-danceshed.co.uk

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL JUST GETS BIGGER AND BETTER EVERY YEAR

It’s a testimony to community spirit that an annual event can be so successful every year. That community spirit belongs to Plympton St Maurice and the event is The Midsummer Festival and each year it just gets bigger and better.

This year the Festival is being held from Friday June 14 to Sunday June 16. On Friday night the Joshua Reynolds choir perform Desert Island Songs at 7.30pm at the Guildhall Tickets £7 on the door plus refreshment.

The popular Lamb Feast kicks off on Saturday June 16 at noon with a procession of glorious classic cars wending their way through the village to the Castle Green.

Succulent lamb baps are one of the attractions enjoyed by many. And there’s all the fun of the fair for the entire family –including dogs which can have fun in the dog show.

Martial arts expert and teacher Andy Cooper will be demonstrating a variety

of skills including self-defence with pupils from his classes held at the Plympton Guildhall.

Enjoy the swing boats, face painting and bouncy castle, candy floss and yummy Devon ice cream. Wander round the many stalls selling everything from plants to cakes, have a cuppa and listen to the steel and brass bands, watch the Yelverton Bowmen or enjoy The Susan Jane School of Dancing as one of the many arena events.

The Lamb Feast on Castle Green is one of the highlights of the Midsummer Festival

Over the weekend the Plympton Painting Group will be exhibiting art in the Plympton Guildhall. Keen gardeners are out in droves on Sunday June 16 for the jewel in the Festival crown when ‘The Hidden Gardens of St Maurice’ open.

Gardeners visit from far and wide to explore the beautiful gardens tucked behind the façade of the ancient houses. Opens 2 pm; tickets £5 on sale Guildhall. Children free. It’s definitely a weekend not to be missed.

Darcey Holden

Amelie Murray

Struggling to climb out of

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Plymouth MP calls for clarity over future of HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark

MP for Devonport, Luke Pollard, has called for ‘clarity’ from Ministers after a new statement revealed HMS Bulwark may not return to sea, despite Ministers prior pledges.

Mr Pollard, Shadow Minister for the Armed Forces, said the ships were effectively ‘mothballed’ after Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge confirmed in response to a Parliamentary Question that Bulwark would only deploy ‘if required.’

This was despite Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, telling the BBC in February: “We are not scrapping these ships, we are not mothballing them,” adding “We are keeping them available for our fantastic Royal Marines.”

During a Parliamentary Debate in January, the Government confirmed that neither Albion nor Bulwark would be scrapped and that the ships would not be mothballed.

The Ministry of Defence had also previously promised that ‘HMS Bulwark will remain in dock to complete phase 2 ahead of her final phase 3 recertification package, before returning to fleet in the summer of 2023,’ but now there is no date for her to return to sea.

Luke Pollard said Ministers need to be honest about the future of HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, having created a ‘cloud of confusion’ with their statements about the future of the ships.

“First, they said HMS Bulwark would be back in service last summer, it wasn’t. Then they said the ships won’t be mothballed, but now they can’t even say if HMS Bulwark will return to sea. That sounds like mothballing to me.

“Ministers are creating a cloud of confusion over these amphibious ships. Ministers need to be honest about the future of HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark and provide Parliament, Plymouth, and our Royal Navy with much needed clarity.”

Plymouth professor named among top 100 most influential figures for leading change in global health

Professor Richard Thompson from the University of Plymouth has been named among the individuals who have done the most to influence global health, in the inaugural TIME100 Health list.

Professor Thompson, is head of the university’s International Marine Litter Research Unit has been named as a ‘microplasdtic revolutionary’ in the ‘catalyst’ category, alongside actor and Parkinson’s campaigner Michael J Fox. The list also features luminaries such as French President Emmanuel Macron and former US President Jimmy Carter.

The recognition from TIME magazine comes almost 20 years to the day since Professor Thompson first coined the term ‘microplastics’ to describe the microscopic particles littering the ocean.

The TIME100 list honours the 100 most influential individuals leading change in health, spotlighting doctors, scientists, business leaders, advocates, and more who its editors say are not just at the cutting edge of the health industry but are sharpening it themselves.

Speaking of his inclusion in TIME100 Health, Professor Thompson – also Director of the University’s Marine Institute – said: “It is incredibly humbling to be included on this list, and to be named among people whose work is having a profound influence on global health.

“In recent years, we have become increasingly aware of the many challenges threatening the health of our planet and everything living on it. Plastic pollution is unquestionably among them, and our work over more than two decades has demonstrated the scale of the issue, and the potential harm it can cause.

“The current negotiations towards a Global Plastics Treaty are critical in addressing that, and they represent a generational opportunity to deliver a worldwide consensus that results in meaningful action.”

Sam Jacobs, editor-in-chief at TIME, explains how the list was compiled: “With guidance from Dr David Agus and

Arianna Huffington, our team of health correspondents and editors, led by Emma Barker and Mandy Oaklander, spent months consulting sources and experts around the world to select the 100 individuals who are most influential in the world of health right now.

“The result is the TIME100 Health, a community of leaders from across industries – scientists, doctors, advocates, educators, and policy-makers, among others – dedicated to creating tangible, credible change for a healthier population.

“Together, they are a reminder that many things are going right, and their work is enough to inspire the belief that the world of health is in the middle of a golden age of accomplishment and transformation.”

Professor Thompson’s first publication exploring the field of marine litter came in May 2004 with a seminal paper in the journal Science.

Since then, he has worked with colleagues across the university and globally on pioneering studies that have highlighted

the presence of microplastics everywhere from our rivers and coastlines to the deepest ocean, and from polar regions to the highest mountains on the planet.

His current projects include work to explore the impact of tyre particle pollution, and the performance of plastic alternatives, as well as assessments of the effects of microplastics on both humans and wildlife.

This work has directly influenced global policies, including the UK ban on microbeads in cosmetic, and he is currently a cocoordinator of the Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty and providing scientific evidence to world leaders negotiating the emerging global legislation.

Professor Thompson has won significant recognition for his work, being made an OBE in 2017 for his services to marine science among various other accolades.

In recent years, this has included being part of a collaboration awarded the NERC Impact prize in 2018, the Volvo Environment Prize 2022, and the 2023 Blue Planet Prize.

Until 23 Feb 2025

HMS Bulwark Photo: Royal Navy

Professor Richard Thompson - named in TIME100 list

Photo: University of Plymouth

Planet Ocean exhibition highlights city’s key role in marine research

The Planet Ocean exhibition at The Box is plunging audiences into the heart of the world’s vast ocean and exploring how it holds the key to civilisation’s survival in the face of climate emergency.

The highly popular exhibition aims to immerse visitors in Plymouth’s pivotal relationship with the sea, celebrating its role as Britain’s Ocean City, exploring Plymouth Sound National Marine Park – one of the world’s most studied and significant stretches of water – and highlighting the groundbreaking marine research that is taking place in Plymouth and impacting global policy.

Planet Ocean is drawn from the natural history, art and social history collections at The Box and has been supported by a range of partners including the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, the University of Plymouth plus a number of South West-based ocean conservation organisations.

With an array of marine specimens, swimming hats and costumes, examples of single use plastics and popular paintings including A Fish Sale on a Cornish Beach by Stanhope Forbes, visitors can learn how essential plankton are to life on Earth, how marine biology has been actively pioneered in Plymouth since the 1880s, how plastics are only one part of a wider problem of marine litter and pollution, and how we have the power to be part of the solution.

The exhibition also features a series of ocean-inspired works by contemporary artists. Bleached by Devon-based Tania Kovats is a response to the beauty and fragility of coral in the world’s ecosystem, while Parachute by Cornwall’s Nicky Harwood comments on our increasing relationship with disposable culture and waste. Made from recycled ocean and rural plastic waste, Underwater Meadows by Rosie Sherwood, evokes the South West’s incredible seagrass and seaweed meadows.

Beyond the main gallery, a new digital commission that tells the story of plankton by Kate Crawfurd and Beth Munro will play on the screens in The Box’s Media Lab throughout April, May and June, while the stunning Because You’re Worth It? II by

One of the

the

The Singh Twins in the main entrance hall highlights the human and environmental cost of consumer demand. A new series of display cases in The Box’s Active Archives gallery have been co-curated with local individuals and community groups and highlight the theme of health and wellbeing in relation to the sea.

Commenting on the exhibition, Sarah Marden, natural history curator at The Box said: “We are all part of one connected ocean, and everyone has the right to a healthy ocean. We want to show how the work that is happening in Plymouth to safeguard the sea has wider consequences around the world.”

“We also want to inspire hope in people. The climate crisis can sometimes feel so overwhelming that it’s hard to know where to start; but small changes in our behaviours can add up to make a big difference.

“We hope Planet Ocean will encourage more conversations and curiosity in our

visitors and by helping them to foster a deeper connection to the ocean, it can play a part in inspiring positive action and driving meaningful change.”

The Box will celebrate UN World Oceans Day on Saturday June 8 with family-friendly craft activities.

Visitors can drop in between from 10.30am and 12.30pm and 1.30pm and 3.30pm (last entries at 12.15pm and 3.15pm) to draw beautiful plankton forms on paper. They can then have them scanned and watch them swimming across the big screens in the Media Lab gallery.

Further events connected to the exhibition will take place throughout the year.

Planet Ocean runs until February 23 2025. The exhibition is open from 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday and is free to visit.

More information about Planet Ocean and The Box’s other exhibitions and displays is available from theboxplymouth.com

exhibits at

Planet Ocean exhibition at The Box: Family picnic on the Breakwater in the early 1900s

Plymstock Diary

By Plymstock Dunstone Councillors Maria Lawson, John Stephens and Stefan Krizanac and Plymstock Radford Councillor Daniel Steel

In Plymstock, and indeed across the city, the past few months have been a busy time for local election candidates, their party councillors and supporters.

In Plymstock’s two city council wards, Dunstone and Radford, Labour party candidates and their team of campaigners and supporters, delivered candidate literature to over 11,000 homes, and posted messages on-line and through letter boxes. We knocked and rung thousands of residents’ doors resulting in chats with over 3,700 people about what matters to them locally and nationally.

During the night of May 2 and the early hours that followed, there was a frenzy of activity whilst the votes were sorted and counted at the Plymouth Life Centre.

Eventually, Maria Lawson was duly elected to serve residents of Dunstone ward and likewise, Daniel Steel for Radford. While we and Plymouth Labour were thrilled with the outcome, it was also an opportunity to thank other candidates who were present and to offer Cllrs Salmon and Wakeham, the outgoing councillors, appreciation for their service to the people of Plymstock during the last three years.

Cllr Maria Lawson joins Cllr John Stephens and Cllr Stefan Krizanac in the team of Labour councillors who have set a few records; the first time Dunstone has been represented by three Labour councillors (all elected in less than one calendar year), Maria being the first ever Labour woman councillor in the ward, and we believe only the third woman councillor in the ward’s 57-year history. If we are wrong, we stand to be corrected.

Maria was born in Plymouth and has lived here virtually all her life. She started her nursing career at the age of nineteen and has dedicated 41 years to public service in the NHS. She is currently an oncology nurse specialist supporting patients undergoing cancer treatments.

She said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be

elected as the councillor for Plymstock Dunstone and would like to thank the residents for the warm reception I received whilst out and about in the community and for putting their faith in me at the ballot box. I will endeavour to work tirelessly for the residents and will support the community to the best of my ability.”

Cllr Daniel Steel is the first Labour councillor to be elected to represent the people of Radford since 1997. Cllr. Ruth Earl, who won in that year is delighted to know that Daniel has succeeded her, albeit 27 years later.

Daniel also stood as the Labour Party’s candidate in the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner election which took him across Devon and Cornwall to share his campaign message and to meet residents, businesses and organisation across the peninsula. In Plymouth and Exeter, he achieved a significant majority over the overall winner, Conservative candidate Alison Hernandez.

Daniel is a Janner born and bred. He is a former diplomat and co-chair of a local charity. His work has taken him to many challenging places including Afghanistan.

He said: “My career has taken me around the world, but I feel lucky to call Plymouth my home. Public service is my passion. This is rooted in the values I was taught growing up in a service family. It is a privilege to be elected as a Radford councillor and I will work tirelessly for the people of the ward and the whole city.

In next month’s article, we will share how residents in both wards can engage with all four councillors by phone, email, social media or in person. We commit to continuing our regular surgeries for people to share concerns and ideas with us at venues around both wards.

Following a request from several residents, we will also arrange some during an evening. Finally, all four of us look forward to contributing our part in the Labour City Council to help make Plymouth a better place to live, grow and work in.

Success at the double for Plympton beauty salon

A Plympton beauty salon has been named not only as the best in the South West – but also the best in the country.

Purity Salon and Training Academy scooped the prestigious awards at the English Hair and Beauty Awards 2024.

Purity was established 10 years ago in May 2014 by Lucy Phillips after she left the Royal Navy having served for seven years as a warfare specialist. It is not the first time Lucy has received accolades for her business, having won a number of awards over the years.

Lucy said: “Making the finals was a big achievement, but to win the regional and national awards is just amazing. We are all delighted and in a state of disbelief and gratitude.

“It is especially pleasing to have won the awards when we are celebrating our 10th anniversary this month.

“I am so proud of my dedicated six-strong team for this wonferful achievement. They have all been with me for several years

FREE DANCE CLASSES FOR CANCER CARE SUPPORT

Dance For Life Devon CIC, a new not for profit organisation based in Plymouth, dedicated to harnessing the power of dance for health and wellbeing, has announced the launch of its latest initiative, ‘Move to Nurture.’

The pioneering programme offers free dance classes tailored specifically to individuals affected by cancer, aiming to provide holistic support and enhance their physical and emotional wellbeing.

‘Move to Nurture’ is designed to empower participants with the transformative benefits of dance, fostering a sense of community, joy, and resilience throughout their cancer journey.

Led by experienced dance instructors, these classes offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore movement, express themselves creatively, have fun and reconnect with their bodies.

‘Move to Nurture’ classes cover a range of dance styles and techniques, including gentle movement, expressive dance, and relaxation exercises, tailored to accommodate varying levels of mobility and energy.

Participants have the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering a supportive community network that extends beyond the studio. Each movement session is followed by time to socialise, with

refreshments provided.

The programme is made possible through the generous support of donors and community partners who share Dance For Life Devon CIC’s vision of using dance as a tool for healing and empowerment. Classes are offered free of charge to ensure accessibility for all individuals affected by cancer.

‘Move to Nurture classes are held weekly at Hartley House Dance Club in Plymouth. Registration is open to individuals of all ages and abilities affected by cancer at any stage, at diagnosis, through treatment and in remission. To reserve a spot or learn more about the program, visit www.danceforlifedevon.co.uk

now, which has definitely contributed to our successes over the years.”

Purity is based on the Ridgeway in Plympton and offers a range of treatments include hair styling, nails, brows, lashes, make up and more.

Lucy added: “We have a fantastic team and extremely loyal customers, who continually support the salon not only because of the services we provide but the atmosphere that the team create. We are able to provide not only hairdressing services, beauty and nail treatments but also consultations, professional advice and retail a wide range of products to use at home. Each year we aim to add new services and keep up with the latest fashions and trends.”

Members of the public were asked to nominate their favourite stylists and salons for the English Hair and Beauty Awards and more than 60,000 votes were received.

The awards have been sponsored by Creative Oceanic for 12 years and have celebrated the stylists and salons from across England that represent excellence in the hair and beauty industry.

The success of these awards has led to Creative Oceanic launching Hair and Beauty Awards in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, London, Toronto and New York, all of which have been successfully established over the years, increasing the brand’s international appeal and recognition.

A spokesperson for the English Hair and Beauty Awards 2024, said: “Winning an award in this prestigious competition is a significant achievement, as it acknowledges the talent and hard work of hair and beauty professionals and sets a benchmark for others to follow. The winners of these awards represent the highest standards of quality and service in the English hair and beauty industry.”

Above: Councillor Daniel Steel Left: Councillors John Stephens, Maria Lawson and Stefan Krizanac

Purity owner Lucy Phillips and team leader Carrie Ham at the awards ceremony

New Stannator and Youth Ambassador take office

Plympton’s new Stannator and Youth Ambassador have been invested into their respective roles at a ceremony held at Harewood House on April 27 attended by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Cllr Mark Shayer, and the Lady Mayoress, Mrs Shayer.

The event was also attended by many past Stannators, local MP Sir Gary Streeter and Lady Streeter, a number of Plympton Councillors, representatives of many local community organisations and invited guests of the outgoing and incoming post holders.

Outgoing Stannator Andy Cooper revealed he had raised over £11,000 for his two chosen charities, believed to be a record amount raised by a Stannator during their year in office. This was achieved via a variety of means, including a sponsored cycle ride between Devon’s four stannary towns, a judo marathon and stints running the Harewood House Coffee Bar to name just some of the many fundraising initiatives.

A cheque presentation of £10,146.80 was made on the night to Andy’s main chosen charity, Motor Neurone Disease Association, with a further cheque for £1,000 due to be presented in due course to youth mental health charity iheart.

Accepting the cheque on behalf of the MNDA, a representative from the charity referred to the outgoing stannator as ‘What a legend’ and pledged that all the £10,146.80 would be ring fenced for use in Plymouth to support the 48 plus people living with the condition in the city.

Retired boat-builder Dave Partridge was subsequently invested into office as the 43rd modern-day Stannator of Plympton since the resurrection of the post in 1980.

He was introduced by his neighbour Martin Coaker who informed those present that Dave Is handy with a socket set and is someone everyone should have in their hour of need.

Dave, who has lived in Plympton for over 30 years, read out his oath of office and was presented with the Stannator’s chain by the Lord Mayor.

The new Stannator has chosen the Plymouth Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as his charity for the year and the fundraising got off to an immediate start with £154 being raised at a series of table draws during the investiture evening.

The role of Youth Ambassador for the past twelve months has been held by Oliver Chard, a student at Hele’s School. He told those gathered at the handover ceremony: “This has been an unforgettable year” as he summarised the past year.

Oliver highlighted his top five events as being his inauguration last April, attending the Plympton May Fair, being a community representative at the 2023 Lord Mayor’s choosing ceremony in Plymouth Guildhall, taking part in Plympton’s Remembrance

Day Parade last November and recently visiting the Lord Mayor’s Parlour in the Council House. He thanked everyone for their support during his time in the role and wished his successor, fellow Hele’s pupil Christopher Turner, an enjoyable year as Youth Ambassador before being presented with a memento of his year by the Lord Mayor.

Christopher was then introduced by Youth Ambassador administrator and 2012/13 Stannator Pauline Kadoche who said Christopher came across as a polite and confident young man on his application form and this impression proved to be right when she met him. She described him as having an easy-going

New Stannator Dave Partridge

nature and a winning smile and spoke of the support of his parents and sister in his bid for the role.

Christopher was congratulated on becoming Youth Ambassador by the Lord Mayor and presented with his badge of office after which he read the Youth Ambassador promise and gave a short response saying how he looked forward to working with people in the community over the coming year.

Christopher then went on to make a number of presentations including to outgoing Stannator Andy Cooper and his wife.

Christopher is the sixth Youth Ambassador since the role was first created in 2017 and the third

Hele’s student to hold the position, the two others being outgoing Youth Ambassador Oliver Chard and 2018/19 post holder Molly Disney.

On learning Christopher was to take over from Oliver in the role, Hele’s Principal Justine Mason said: “It is with great pride that I acknowledge the time and commitment invested in the community this past year by the outgoing Plympton Youth Ambassador, and I wish his successor, Christopher Turner, the best of luck as he takes over the mantle from his fellow Hele’s School student, Oliver Chard.

“As strong advocates for Student Voice at Hele’s and being at the forefront of issues affecting our young people in our school community, I have every confidence that the legacy left by previous Plympton Youth Ambassadors will be built upon and the voice of young people will continue to be heard across Plympton through positive representation and constructive feedback.

“The role of  Plympton youths in keeping the voice of our young people strong and constructive cannot be underestimated, and Hele’s School will continue to support Plympton Community Council and the Plympton Youth Ambassadors in this endeavour.”

Each new Stannator invites a member of the local clergy to attend the investiture evening where their role is to say a few words and to offer a blessing to the new post holders. This year Dave Partridge invited the Rev’d Lizzie Green from St Mary’s Church to perform that function.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Plymouth Lord Mayor Cllr Mark Shayer congratulates Youth Ambassador Christopher Turner

Ougoing Stannator Andy Cooper presents the cheque for over £10,00 to a representative of MNDA

Full STEAM ahead in Stonehouse!

A Plymouth community interest company has launched a STEAM Discovery Village and Family Hub in Stonehouse.

It Takes a Village Plymouth CIC aims to bring families together through exciting STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics – activities while also providing access to affordable, sustainable items and signposting to essential support.

After hosting a series of lively Pop Up Swap & Shop events, accompanied by fun STEAM and sustainability activities for kids, It Takes a Village has now set up shop in The Plot on Union Street for the next six months, offering a more permanent space for the community.

The launch party in Marchwas a huge success, drawing in families eager to explore a range of STEM equipment and activities, from digital microscopes to cutting-edge building and construction resources.

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard, who popped in to join the party, said: “It’s vital to engage children in STEAM at a young age, inspiring the next generation who are the future in these fields. It Takes a Village Plymouth CIC is doing incredible work, especially in a community like Stonehouse where access to STEAM activities and experiences for primary school children is limited.

“I want to see every child in Plymouth have the opportunity to be inspired by science and technology. Getting kids to make, create and explore when they’re in primary school can set them up for life and help deliver the skills our city needs when they’re older too.”

One of It Takes a Village’s directors, Layla Stringer, said: “Our goal is to create a vibrant space where families can come together, learn, and grow and we think we’ve done just that. It was fantastic to see so many children and adults playing and creating alongside each other and having fun. The overwhelming support we’ve received for our STEAM activities, Swap & Shops and our plans for the future demonstrates the need for such initiatives in our community.”

It Takes a Village Plymouth CIC has an array of exciting activities planned, including workshops during the May half-term, regular Saturday Swap & Shops Father’s Day events and more.

New funding to transform future of young people with SEND in Plymouth

Plymouth has received more than £1.2 million from the Department for Education to provide new opportunities to 360 young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) throughout the next year.

Plymouth City Council is working with partners across the city, including Routeways, Friends and Families, Eat that Frog, Plymouth Parent Carer Voice, City College Plymouth, Livewell Southwest, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust and Plymouth Parent Carer Voice, to support children and young people with short breaks and activities that will improve their health, education and wellbeing.

This includes the Your Future programme which aims to help young people with SEND aged 16 to 25 years into education or employment opportunities by developing a positive mindset and learning independent skills.

This year, Your Future will give 80 young people the chance to take part in a five-week course that incorporates two residentials: an activity week, and a city break away from Plymouth.

The programme, which was piloted last year with 16 young people, is provided by the council through On Course South West and offers a structured package of employability and skills training with coaching and mentoring.

Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “Our aim is for Plymouth to be a great place for everyone to grow up, where all children and young people are supported to be happy, healthy and supported to aspire and achieve.

“This funding is a hugely welcome investment in SEND support services and will enable partners across the city to carry on

delivering some absolutely fantastic services that have been codesigned with young people themselves.

“This means that young people with SEND can enjoy new opportunities and activities that help them to achieve their full potential, learning vital new life skills and building their confidence.”

The funding will enable a huge programme of activity to take place throughout Plymouth, helping to tackle social isolation and supporting hundreds of young people to access activities that give them chance to develop life skills and grow their confidence. This includes a range of activities run by the council’s Community Youth Team, including creative workshops, outdoor adventures, residential trips and digital skills development. It will also support the running of different youth groups, including for young people who are neurodiverse and those who identify as LGBTQ+.

City College Plymouth will deliver its popular Summer Activity weeks which help young people with SEND transition into the college, meeting new friends and building their confidence. Friends and Families, a local charity which works to empower families with children with a disability, will extend its Duke of Edinburgh Award offer.

Funding has helped to purchase equipment and provide new experiences, which means the first group of young people taking part will be able to complete their bronze award by the end of 2024, with plans to undertake additional levels in 2025.

The £1,279,705 of funding is provided through the Department for Education’s short breaks innovation programme and will be used between April 2024 and March 2025. This is the third year of the project, following two years of pilot activity.

Knitters wanted for special Janner Gansey project

Real-life sisters Karen and Fiona Evans, co-Founders of the Conscious Sisters CIC, whose project ‘The Gathering’ has been re-connecting the people of Plymouth to the Sound and sea, are calling for knitters who want to remake Plymouth Gansey jumpers.

The knitters using five steel needles will re-make the traditional fisherman’s jumper,to reclaim the Plymouth Gansey and for it to be a locally known and worn garment once again.

The gansey is a hand knitted fishing jumper with no seams which was worn in the 19th and early 20th century. The gansey was decorated with designs from nature or the world of fishing.

The gansey was worn by Plymouth fishermen up until the 1950s and today the jumper has virtually disappeared without a trace. Each knitter involved with the project will be encouraged to add a personal touch to their hand made jumper, so they are ‘knitted with love’ be it weaving a thread of

their own hair or embroidering something within the jumper so there is a threaded connection between the knitter and wearer. Fiona Evans, whose ancestors were fishers and who are passionate about connecting Plymothians to The Sound, said: “The Janner Gansey is a fabulous garment, warm and practical. But also, sustainable and good for the environment. We want ganseys knitted by locals to be worn and loved by Plymothians once again.”

Conscious Sisters are looking for knitters who are willing to knit to order jumpers for local people and they will get paid for their efforts.

There is also the aim for a repair service to be on offer to ensure the longevity and preservation of these hand knitted jumpers that will be knitted using five ply wool from fleeces grown in Devon. Anyone who would like to respond to the ‘Call for Knitters’ or know a keen knitter who would like to take part, should email hello@theconscioussisters.com

Young people trying archery through the Your Future programme

Youngsters enjoying activities at the STEAM Discovery Village

St Luke’s Hospice receives donation from developer

St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is the latest winner of a local developer’s Community Champions scheme.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon handed over the £1,000 cheque to the charity that provides specialist advice and support to people with progressive life-limiting illnesses, alongside local councillors Rebecca Smith and Kathy Watkin.

For over 40 years, St Luke’s has been providing specialist end of life care and support to people from across Plymouth, South West Devon, and East Cornwall, whether in the home, hospital or at their specialist unit at Turnchapel.

The hospice cares for people with serious illnesses such as cancer, motor neurone disease, heart failure, multiple sclerosis and chronic lung disease, treating any adult over the age of 18.

Its teams of specialist doctors, nurses, occupational therapists and social workers work alongside other healthcare professionals including at Derriford Hospital and Livewell Southwest as part of integrated care in Devon.

Persimmon is currently constructing the Saltram Meadow development in Plymstock where the housebuilder has recently secured planning permission for the next two stages of the development, which will comprise of up to 1,684 homes once completed.

Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme sees £700,000 donated to good causes and much-valued organisations across Britain each year. Recent local recipients include St Matthew’s Derriford Summer Fair and Plymouth Night Patrol.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon sales director Jane Cartwright said: “Through our Community Champions scheme, Persimmon Homes proudly supports organisations like St Luke’s, recognising their invaluable role in providing specialised care to our community.

“As we continue to build communities like Saltram Meadow, we are committed to not only constructing homes but also fostering a culture of giving back as part of our mission to leave a positive and lasting legacy in the areas in which we build.

“Together, we hope to help St Luke’s make

a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing life-limiting illnesses, ensuring they receive the support and care they deserve.”

Sarah Wallis, Partnership lead at St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth – added: “We were thrilled that our application was successful and Persimmon chose us as worthy recipients of its Community Champions grant.

“We believe that everyone deserves quality end of life care, no matter where, which is why we work with our community, in partnership with others, to achieve dignity, comfort and choice for people affected by life-limiting illnesses through delivering and influencing exceptional care.

“This donation further helps us to deliver on those goals and we are grateful to Persimmon for their help.”

Cllr Rebecca Smith commented: “It is important for developers to demonstrate how they can help local communities beyond the provision of homes, so I was very pleased to hear about Persimmon’s support for St Luke’s.

“The Hospice undertakes very difficult and very important work, so I am sure that this donation will go a long way with the staff here as well as its patients and their families.”

Cllr Kathy Watkin also said: “It is really welcome to see a major developer like Persimmon donate to cherished local charities like St Luke’s Hospice as part of their commitment to Plymstock.

“I was really heartened to hear about the Hospice’s work during our visit and congratulate St Luke’s on their successful application to this worthwhile funding stream.”

Political map changes colour following local council elections

The political map across Plympton and Plymstock has changed colour following the local elections on May 2.

Chaddlewood and Plympton Erle are the only wards to remain entirely the same colour.

In Chaddlewood Green Councillor Lauren McLay retained her seat with an increased majority over her by-election win in January 2023 and this time she took 53% of the vote.

In the neighbouring ward of Plympton Erle Andrea Loveridge held the seat, this time as an Independent, having resigned her Conservative allegiances towards the end of last year.

Labour pushed the Conservatives into third place in the ward this time.

There was disappointment for Conservative Councillor Natalie Harrison across the valley in Plympton St Mary where she was narrowly defeated by 285 votes by Independent candidate Sally Nicholson.

Mrs Harrison has, however, pledged to continue as a community campaigner in the ward and plans to contest the ward again in May 2026 when there will be all out elections for all the seats on Plymouth City Council, caused by planned ward boundary changes in the city.

In Plymstock, previously blue seats turned red with Labour winning both seats from the Conservatives. In Radford Daniel Steel ousted Bill Wakeham by 238 votes and in an eight candidate contest in Dunstone Maria Lawson triumphed over David Salmon by 184 votes.

Former councillor Chaz Singh made a gallant bid to win Radford as an Independent amassing a credible 463 votes, but ended in third place, almost 1,000 votes behind the winner.

Labour now has a substantial majority on the council, holding 42 seats, the Conservatives have seven, there are two Green Party Councillors and various Independents hold six seats.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Plympton Ukulele Band welcomes new members

The Plympton Ukulele Band started in 2017 when the first six members met at the Plympton Conservative Club.

As interest and numbers grew they moved to the Sir Joshua Reynolds pub on the Ridgeway. Now they have moved to The Rise, opposite the George pub, Plympton where they meet regularly on a Monday evening from 7pm to 9pm. There are approximately 30 members with a nucleus of about 15 regular players.

Over the years they have played at various venues in and around Plympton entertaining small groups and they support the Light up Plympton Christmas Lights switch on every November. They have raised money for numerous charities along the way – Gable Cats & Dogs Home, RNLI, Royal Society for Blind Children, SW Blood Bikes and the Donkey Sanctuary to name a few.

Anyone who can play the ukulele or would like to learn is welcome to go along and join then.

For further information contact 07976834111.

Good to be back! Local Elections means there’s a caution over local representatives contributing a column so a little break but back again now! It’s been a busy two months with plenty to catch up on - too much for one column but here is a flavour.

Since I last wrote, I’ve met with the Chronic Pain Coaching Team who have set up a local group in Plympton and are about to do the same in Plymstock and with Plymouth Bereavement Counselling service who are looking for further funding.

We’ve celebrated International Women’s Day which provided an opportunity to talk about tackling Violence against Women and Girls at Plympton Academy and I had the privilege of joining Promoting Children in Plymouth’s World Book Day read at Morley Meadow Primary in Plymstock.

I’ve taken part in two student hustings with the Sixth Form at Plymstock School, joined Sir Gary Streeter MP at a Q&A with students at Hele’s School and attended a fantastic Plympton Academy and National Theatre production at the Morpurgo Theatre.

By the time this lands on your doorstep, Plympton Community Council will have held their May Fayre at Harewood House, but a few weeks ago, it was good to attend the Spring Fayre and meet with local groups like the Plym Valley Railway at Marsh Mills. Their season started at Easter and with services running on Sundays and a couple of Saturdays a month, is worth a visit. I’m looking forward to popping along soon.

You may recall my campaign to secure a bus service from Plymstock to Plympton. Thank you to everyone who completed the survey. It was really good to see what you would like to see put in place. There was roughly a 50/50 demand for services via Haye Road and Cot Hill and through Sherford to Chaddlewood with a few keen to see a service via Marsh Mills.

Since then, I have met with the Cabinet Member for Transport and local bus company bosses, shared your views and had an update on their plans. We are all in agreement that there needs to be a service linking our two communities given both the new Crematorium and the new homes and business premises at Sherford.

Whilst one won’t be coming overnight, I am confident that our voices have been heard and we will see a bus service. I worked for three years

Rebecca’s Review

By Rebecca Smith Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South West Devon and Councillor for Plymstock Radford Ward

to get a zebra crossing on Furzehatt Road in Plymstock and will work for as long as it takes to get this bus routepreferably a circular route that will also include access to Saltram House. The fight continues!

Have you heard about Family Hubs? They have been designed to enhance the offer of existing Children’s Centres by making them available to families throughout their lifetime and to be a single point of access for the health and wellbeing services families may wish to use.

I recently visited the Plympton Family Hub at the Rees Centre which is run alongside the Rees Centre Wellbeing Hub by Barnardo’s. It was great to see the various activities taking place - prenatal checks, baby groups, breastfeeding support groups, a group meeting as part of Timebank South West and also to meet the Character Creation Roleplaying team who provide support for young people not currently in mainstream education.

Plymouth is one of 75 local authorities who received funding from

government to deliver Start for Life and Family Hubs. So far there are five across the city. I’ve been lobbying for one in Plymstock!

Delighted to have secured CCTV along the cycle/ walking path from Laira Bridge towards Sherford. This key route from the city centre through Plymstock is used by many people every day, but had no CCTV.

Given some anti social behaviour along the route and with my role championing seeking to enhance safety for women and girls, I lobbied Plymouth City Council for a camera and just a few weeks ago, one was installed. Really pleased to see this addition. Thank you to the CCTV team at the Council for sorting it out.

Finally, a couple of dates for your diary: Thursday May 16 - 9am to 10.30am Councillor Surgery at Plymstock Library

Monday May 20 - 11am Commonwealth War Graves Commission D-Day and War Memorial 70th Anniversary event on Plymouth Hoe (city centre side of the War Memorial) All welcome.

As ever, please drop me an email if there is anything I can do to help or any local group you’d like me to visit and promote.

You can contact me at rebecca@rebecca-smith. org.uk and why not follow me on FacebookFacebook.com/swdevonrebecca

Rebecca pictured with Sir Gary Streeter MP at the Rees Centre Wellbeing Hub

Rebecca at Morley Meadow Primary School for World Book Day

Rebecca meeting up with Plym Valley Railway fundraisers

Experience

If you’re a fan of these articles in the Plymouth Chronicle or you’re a regular listener to Cross Rhythms Plymouth you’ll be excited to learn of an event coming up very soon.

The Cross Rhythms Plymouth Showcase on Thursday June 20 will be a little bit of everything you love about Cross Rhythms and you are invited!

Music is at the heart of the radio station and we’ll have live music on the night from Plymouth’s own Will Allen as well as Our Atlantic Roots coming from the other side of the Tamar to perform for us.

They both are emerging independent artists who have a passion for their music and their faith. Introducing them to the good people of Plymouth at this event will be our joy and carry on our tradition of doing so for many artists over many years.

We’re also thrilled to have our resident poet Steve Wheeler bring an on stage version of his ‘Poet’s Corner’ radio show to the evening. He’ll be reciting some of

You are invited to our showcase!

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross

his most popular works. Some of them deep and contemplative and others light hearted and fun but always captivating and not to be missed!

I’m also especially looking forward to interviewing Rob Fowler at the event. Anyone who follows Cross Rhythms Plymouth will know of our Life Stories programme. Ordinary people being interviewed about their lives and encounters with God and why faith is important to them. What happens when you have money success and everything the world says you need but are still deeply unhappy? This was Rob’s story until something dramatically

changed. Find out what happened when he shares at the event.

We’ve done loads of these interviews on the station over the years, in fact you can find them both on our website listen again pages at crossrhythms. co.uk/plymouth and on our YouTube channel at youtube.com/@ CRPlymouth.

We’ve never done one in person and on stage before though so this will be new for us all!

It’s going to be a wonderful night and will be taking place from 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) on Thursday June 20 at The Worship Centre, Plymbridge Rd,

Rhythms Plymouth

Plymouth PL6 7LF.

Tickets are free and spaces are limited so scan the QR code here to book your tickets or head to eventbrite.co.uk and search for ‘Cross Rhythms Plymouth Showcase’. Or if you have any questions or want to find out more about the event, you can email us on info@crplymouth.co.uk.

Student votes bring top accolade for Arts University Plymouth

Arts University Plymouth has won University of the Year for South West England at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards.

The nominees and winners of these awards are selected by students based on reviews submitted by students from across the UK, and winners judged by a panel made up of prospective and current university students.

Arts University Plymouth was crowned as the Lecturers & Teaching Quality Winner for South West England, Facilities Winner for South West England and Student Support Winner for South West England. The leading arts university was also awarded Second Place for South West England for Students’ Union.

Ranked out of over 100 of the UK’s top universities at an awards ceremony presented by actor and comedian Lenny Henry, Arts University Plymouth came in fourth place overall in the UK category of University of the Year and top out of all universities in the South West of England.

Voted for by students, Arts University Plymouth took home second place in the UK for the Facilities award, third place overall in the Student Support category, and fourth place in the Lecturers & Teaching Quality category.

Highlighting the quality of Arts University Plymouth’s provision as a leading specialist for creative arts education, the University of the Year award celebrates the overall experience

of students, focusing on lecturers and teaching quality, the Students’ Union experience, facilities and student life.

Arts University Plymouth was the only specialist arts university considered for this category.

The university was awarded Winner in the Facilities award category for South West England, celebrating the access students have to the wide array of subject-specific resources available across all creative disciplines.

Students voted based on Arts University Plymouth’s cutting-edge resources, including Fab Lab Plymouth, diverse multimedia and photography studios, a comprehensive Materials Lab that supports innovative practices in hot glass, ceramics and biomaterials, and the university’s well-equipped Drawing Lab, Fashion and Textile studios.

Being named Winner in the Student Support category for South West England celebrates the

university’s focus on student support and on promoting kindness in the processes of thinking, making and living.

In 2023, Arts University Plymouth won a Kindness in Education Award, recognising the arts university’s collective work to build a kinder and more compassionate university and an inclusive community for staff and students.

Winning the Lecturers & Teaching Quality award for South West England, student votes highlighted teaching excellence on offer at the University.

In 2023, Arts University Plymouth was awarded a triple Silver rating by the Office for Students in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).

Now in their 12th year, the Whatuni Student Choice Awards are the only annual awards for UK universities based entirely on student opinion, with over 35,000 reviews submitted by students each year. Arts University Plymouth’s Whatuni ranking is based on reviews from 712 students, making up almost half of the leading arts university’s undergraduate student body.

Arts University Plymouth continues to be recognised for its excellence in creative education, providing a world-class ecosystem of resources and talent for the designers and makers of tomorrow. In 2023, Arts University Plymouth was voted second in the category for best Small or Specialist Institution at the WUSCAs, following a first place win in 2022.

Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks, Vice-Chancellor & Chief Executive of Arts University Plymouth, said:

“We are so delighted with the acknowledgement of our work through these awards. In particular the recognition in the University of the Year category has demonstrated that small and specialist universities like ours have much to contribute to the landscape of UK Higher Education. For the third year in a row, we are proud to celebrate these achievements with our community and with future applicants.

“This accolade is testament to the hard work and dedication of our talented colleagues at Arts University Plymouth, who work so hard to prioritise the needs and experiences of students.

One recent student review of Arts University Plymouth from a BA (Hons) Painting, Drawing & Printmaking student said: “It is a joy to come in every day. I seem to make more new friends every week.

“All in all, attending Arts University Plymouth is proving to be one of the greatest experiences of my life… To be creative and express myself the way I want to. Everyone can be themselves. It is like entering another world walking through those doors each day. A creative paradise!”

A recent review by a BA (Hons) Illustration student said: “It’s a vibrant, perfect uni that feels like home,” and another review by a BA (Hons) Craft & Material Practices student said: “This university has the best environment in the South West to facilitate creativity in a number of mediums. The open door policy to all workshops fosters a sense of endless possibility.”

Dave Simpson

Comedian Lenny Henry at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards

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Plymouth project to create world’s first autonomous research vessel

Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) has announced plans for the world’s first long-range, autonomous research vessel which could usher in a new era for net-zero oceanography and advanced international marine research.

PML has partnered with non-profit exploration charity ProMare and Plymouth marine technology firm MSubs to design Oceanus, a 24 metre-long uncrewed vessel. The vessel will be self-righting and will carry an array of monitoring sensors to collect data for research into critical areas such as climate change.

A video has been released – created by MSubs – after seed funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), but further funding is now being sought to support the building of the vessel, which PML says will take around two years to complete. If completed, PML says the vessel promises to be able to reach remote areas of the ocean that are difficult or impossible to sample through traditional research craft, whether due to remote locations or due to

extreme weather conditions.

Professor Icarus Allen, PML chief executive, said: “A statistic I find quite shocking is that, to date, humans have explored less than 5% of the world’s oceans, and yet the ocean does so much for us.

“It has absorbed at least 25% of carbon emissions that we have emitted. It also absorbs over 90% of the excess heat resulting from greenhouse gases and, most importantly, we humans get between 50% and 80% of the oxygen we breathe from the ocean,” Professor Allen added.

“It is vital now, more than ever, to improve our understanding of the ocean and the changes taking place within it. The ocean is facing huge challenges and it’s vital we have as much evidence as possible to support decisions on how to protect and manage it sustainably.”

The autonomous vessel would run via software programme Guardian AI and follows the Mayflower Autonomous Ship project, a £1 million robotic vessel which attempted to

A CGI impression of the Oceanus

retrace the 1620 sea voyage of the Mayflower in 2022.

Brett Phaneuf, representing ProMare, said: “The project is sustainable in that all the materials are recycleable, so it

will be aluminium, and the fuel itself is a hydrogenated vegetable oil, which is a waste oil made from plant products, with very little emissions, if any, from the ship when it is at sea.”

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People in Plymouth who are struggling with mental health issues can now contact the First Response crisis service by calling NHS 111 and selecting the mental health option.

The phone will be answered by a trained mental health call handler who will be able to listen to the caller’s concerns and help them get the support they need. With the caller’s permission, they can also access their electronic patient records to better meet their needs. They can offer advice over the phone and offer a crisis assessment if this is required.

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changes, feeling out of control, feeling unable to cope or anxious about leaving the house, hearing voices or seeing things others can’t or thinking about self-harm.

First Response is a 24/7 crisis line supported by a team of call handlers and mental health professionals at Livewell Southwest in Plymouth.

Trainee advanced clinical practitioner Jason said: “It is a free space, with no judgement, led by you and what the crisis means for you. We talk to you about what might be going on in your life, what you may want out of your life and try to work out what that picture looks like for you, where you want to be and how we get you there.”

Mental health crisis telecoach

Patricia said: “I would always advise people to reach out for help. I know the first step can be difficult to pick up the phone and calling, but it can save lives.”

Another telecoach Kerry said:

“If things aren’t feeling quite right for you, now may be the time to reach out to us. Just pick up the phone. There is a lovely team opeople waiting to take your call and make you feel at ease. The good thing about our service is we are open day and night, so it can be whenever suits you.”

Team Manager Lee Stone said: “It

is a great honour and privilege to be the manager of such a wonderful, motivated team of professionals and of a service that prides itself in seeking the best outcomes for our service users.

The Livewell First Response service is fully committed to delivering the best quality of care achievable 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“In 2024, we have taken, on average, more than 2700 calls a month - evidencing the critical need for a round the clock service. As we now move to the national 111 number, it will be easier than ever to get access to crucial mental health crisis support throughout England.”

Telecoach Jason

Telecoach Kerry

Telecoach Patricia

Marjon launches new counselling clinic for the community on a

‘pay what you can’

basis

Plymouth Marjon University has announced the opening of its newest service, the Marjon Counselling Clinic, dedicated to offering accessible and affordable counselling services to the community through its ‘pay what you can’ funding model.

The Marjon Counselling Clinic aims to extend support to individuals aged 18 and over with the convenience of self-referral through the clinic’s dedicated webpage. The service runs on a pay what you can basis, hoping to provide support for everyone, regardless of their financial status. The suggested donation is £15 per session, and donations will be used to develop and widen access to the clinic.

The clinic will be staffed by third-year Undergraduate and Master’s level students currently completing their counselling studies at Marjon. Each student counsellor is required to be a student member of either the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), ensuring adherence to professional standards.

Clinic manager and Marjon alumni, Mel Benson said: “Our objective is to address the city-wide demand for accessible and affordable counselling through our new clinic. The aim is to connect community members, who may otherwise face long waits, with timely and costeffective therapy.

“This clinic is designed to bridge a crucial service gap and seeks to establish connections with other community services. By providing students with a well-supported opportunity, we aim to cultivate their counselling practice and contribute to the university’s establishment as a pioneering hub for counselling and research.”

Professor Saul Bloxham, Dean of the School of Health and Wellbeing at Marjon, added: “The Marjon Counselling Clinic adds another service to our broad range of public health services, informed by research and led by students. Our clinics improve the community’s access to health and care settings and support our students’ learning and development.”

The Marjon Counselling Clinic will provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment for clients to openly discuss their difficulties and issues. Emphasising a compassionate and inclusive approach, the clinic will value and respect everyone’s unique background and circumstances.

Plymouth Marjon University has a variety of public-facing clinics, enabling the Plymouth community to access inexpensive, quality care. Settings include an Osteopathy Clinic, Physiotherapy Clinic, Memory Café, Lower Limb Clinic, and Cancer Pre-hab and Re-hab Clinics.

The clinic is eager to build partnerships and establish connections within the local community. Organisations or services interested in collaboration are encouraged to reach out to the clinic via email at counsellingclinic@ marjon.ac.uk.

More information about the Marjon Counselling Clinic can be found at www.marjon. ac.uk/mhw/info-for-patients/counsellingclinic/

Beth’s marathon trek in memory of her mum

A Mutley woman has completed a two-day 50 mile charity walk in Devon to raise funds for brainstrust.

Beth Phelps joined in the ‘Follow the Seagulls’ charity walk in Dartmouth on April 13 and 14 for the second year in a row, as a heartfelt tribute to her mother Ruth who passed away in 2023 following a brain tumour diagnosis.

Beth’s gesture demonstrated her strong personal connection to the cause and continued commitment to the community. The walk helped to highlight her family’s deep connection with brainstrust charity, which provided amazing support to her mum Ruth following her diagnosis with a frontal lobe glioblastoma in June 2022.

Sadly, Ruth passed away in June 2023, having completed the Follow the Seagulls incredible 50-mile journey last year less than two months prior.

Talking about her motivation for doing the trek again this year Beth said: “In 2023, I walked alongside her, but in 2024, I will walk for her.”

Beth aimed not only to commemorate her mother’s bravery and spirit but also to amplify awareness and gather support for brainstrust. The charity has been a beacon of hope and assistance for herself and her family and countless others navigating the challenges posed by brain tumours.

Beth is calling on the community for support in her venture, whether through donations, spreading the word, or providing encouragement. Her walk served as a sign of courage and solidarity with all individuals and families dealing with the devastating consequences of brain tumours.

Plymouth woman in remission from acute myeloid leukaemia welcomes new research

A Plymouth woman who is enjoying the retirement she didn’t think she would live to see after being diagnosed with leukaemia, is hoping that new research, funded by Leukaemia UK, could help dramatically reduce the impact harsh treatments can have on those diagnosed.

Linda Sellar, 65, from Plymstock, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in 2019 after struggling with breathlessness and picking up infections, including a cough. Blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy led to her diagnosis with AML, which is the most common type of leukaemia. Linda had two rounds of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant using donor cells from her son, Jack.

Linda struggled with side effects including losing her hair twice, fevers and a fungal lung infection. Now, the former civil servant is in remission and spending her time walking, skiing and travelling with her husband. She is also welcoming an announcement of new funding from research charity Leukaemia UK which aims to minimise the impact treatments, such as chemotherapy, can have on those diagnosed.

Linda said: “I can now recognize that my breathlessness was a symptom and am so grateful that my husband insisted on my visit to the GP. I was also lucky that my GP was vigilant. I would urge anyone who has symptoms to visit their GP and insist on blood tests, even if the GP does not consider it necessary.

“I would not be here today without the marvellous medical treatments available to cure my AML and the subsequent fungal lung infection. All this is available to people like me thanks to research and funding provided by Leukaemia UK.”

Professor Terry Rabbitts, Professor of Molecular Immunology at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, is exploring a new approach to targeting AML cancer cells to minimise the impact of treatment.  This news

came alongside World AML Day in April.

Professor Terry Rabbitts said: “Leukaemia is caused by mutations in the DNA of normal cells, causing them to become cancerous. Sometimes chromosomes break and are joined to other chromosomes. If this happens it can result in ‘fusion proteins’ – these only occur in cancer cells, so they are specific targets for treatment. My team and I will explore a new approach to targeting fusion proteins by channelling antibodies inside cancer cells.

“We have already begun a new technology that will allow us to deploy antibodies inside cells. Our aim is to get them to bind with the fusion proteins inside cancer cells to destroy them.

“This new anti-cancer strategy will mean fewer side effects for AML patients and should ultimately also benefit other blood cancers and solid tumours.”

Every year almost 3,100 people in the UK are diagnosed with AML yet its survival rates are among the worst of any cancer type. Just 13.6% of people survive longer than five years after their diagnosis.

Fiona Hazell, chief executive of Leukaemia UK, said: “Treatments for leukaemia, which have remained largely unchanged since the 1960s, are harsh and can cause terrible side effects like the ones Linda sadly experienced.

“We’re delighted to announce Prof Rabbitts’ new project, which, along with our other funded research projects, will help us to accelerate progress in leukaemia treatment and care.

“We want to offer people like Linda the hope of more effective and gentler treatments in the future. Breakthroughs happen all the time and we won’t stop until we have found better, kinder treatments for all those affected.”

Beth Phelps (far right) pictured with her late mum Ruth on the ‘Follow the Seagulls’ charity walk last year

Linda Sellar pictured with her daughter while undergoing treatment in hospital

Add summer colour to your garden space

May brings longer days and warmer weather, finally indicating that summer is coming after a very wet and cold start to the year. It’s time to tidy up any spring gardening and start making room for the new season!

• If you’re planning to have summer hanging baskets or new container recipes, now is the time to plant them.

• Remove any faded spring bedding and plant your summer bedding after the last frost.

• Apply some liquid feed to your tulips, daffodils, and other spring bulbs to help them grow better for next year.

• As plants start to bloom apply a liquid feed to give them a boost and prolong flowering periods.

• Tie up the new shoots of your climbing plants so they train along fences and walls.

• Start watering your plants earlier and later in the day and try to recycle water where possible.

• It’s a great time to grow fruit and vegetables as the season has started later.

• Time to treat your lawn, killing weeds to adding nourishment. You can also start overseeding. For those who are interested in gardening but don’t know how to start, now is the perfect time to give it a try. Even if you have limited space such as a small patio or balcony, you can still create a beautiful garden.

In Plymouth, we have lots of small spaces so container gardening is very popular whether creating bright colourful displays or herb gardens outside the back door, you can garden anywhere!

No matter what space or size you have, gardening doesn’t have to be challenging or expensive, that’s why this month we’re going to focus on bedding plants, or more specifically our simple idea for creating a wonderful container or hanging basket display.

Thrillers, Spillers & Fillers

Now this simple expression can apply to pots or hanging baskets with each of the three words referring to the category and role of the plants.

Thriller – These are your ‘wow factor’ centrepieces. If you’re thinking about a hanging basket or planted container, you can choose something like a Fuchsia, Geranium, Osteospermum or the Non-Stop Begonia as your thriller. Giving height, they sit in the middle of your

providing structure.

Top tip - If you’re looking for a classic summer plant that stands out from the crowd and can add some impact to your garden, then you might want to check out the Begonia. We recommend the non-stop and trailing varieties. Ours are simply incredible being locally grown, chunky and I have yet to find a better one anywhere! These plants are easy to take care of and pack a real punch of colour. It blooms until October and can handle shade, making it versatile for borders. The non-stop begonias maintain a neat, upright, and compact shape, with continuous double-bloom flowers throughout the summer. The trailing variety will cascade over the edge of the container, adding a pop of colour and contrast against delicate flowers.

Spillers – or hanging plants, will cascade or waterfall over the edges of your container. These could be Trailing Petunias (Surfinias), trailing fuchsias, begonias, geraniums, or lobelia. Bacopa is a best seller and must-have in any recipe. They are low-growing and vigorous, and they will fill the spaces in your container quickly, easily, and happily. Its trailing habit and simple white, pink, or purple flowers make it perfect for cascading over containers, and it blooms for an extended period.

Calibrachoa (Million Bells) is another spiller plant

that flowers profusely but is ‘self-cleaning’ so you don’t have to worry about deadheading the abundance of flowers. There are many colours and double-coloured varieties. Look out for some of the electric pinks and purples!

Fillers – Lastly, fill in the gaps within your container or basket with some bedding plants such as Impatiens, Lobelia, Petunias, Marigolds, Pansies or Violas,

When planting a hanging basket, you want to use either a container or basket compost or a good multi-purpose. Just make sure to add waterretaining granules and a slow-release fertiliser. Start with your centre plant, then the trailing plants between the chains of the basket.

Lastly, fill in the gaps with your bedding plants and water in well. For big, impressive displays, fill most of your soil space. There are no strict rules, just go for it!

After three weeks, feed weekly with a liquid feed and check daily for watering, even after light rain as it may not soak down far enough. Deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage beds to flower all summer long!

A typical recipe would be as follows: Choose a colour theme or mix it up with anything you like.

Hot – reds, yellows, whites, orange

Cool – pinks, purples, whites, blues, Carnival – red, purple, yellow-orange, pink, blue

One Thriller - Geranium

Three Spillers – Bacopa, Calibrachoa, Surfinia. Spread evenly. You can go for all the same plan to create symmetry or for doubles of a plant.

Six fillers - choose a mix of uprights - petunias and impatiens and some trailing lobelia.

arrangement

City College hosts largest regional construction skills competition

City College Plymouth hosted SkillBuild 2024 in April - the largest multi-trade skills competition in the UK for construction trainees and apprentices.

Delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), SkillBuild showcases some of the brightest emerging talent in the industry, where highly skilled learners and apprentices go head-tohead in a bid to be crowned winner of their chosen trade.

Students travelled from across the country to be involved in the South West’s regional competition and competed in trades including bricklaying, carpentry, painting and decorating, plastering, and joinery.

Competitors were tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem-solving and working under pressure. The competition assesses students’ and apprentices’ functional skills against real life work scenarios, alongside providing a unique way of combining teaching, learning and assessment to achieve real results for learners of all ages and abilities. The prestigious competition is proven to improve competitors’ technical and employability skills, as well as advancing career options in the future.

The day was also marked by a visit from DIY expert, Craig Phillips. The British reality star and TV presenter rocketed to fame in 2000 as a contestant of Channel 4’s Big Brother, and has since made a name for himself as a reputable TV personality, alongside his successful construction business.

Craig said: “Being in the construction industry at this moment in time has a prosperous future for anybody. I’ve been in the industry for 34 years and I’ve seen a lot of changes, but I often say to students that once you’ve got a trade, that’s going to stay with you for life. They can take that anywhere in the world

and really build their career from that.

“This is why competitions like SkillBuild are so important. There’s constant innovation of different materials, tools and there’s the demand for those in the industry to understand things like technical drawings, and SkillBuild really prepares those students for that experience and gives them an opportunity to put themselves out there as well.”

The college currently has five students in the top three scoring competitors for each trade category, who are hoping to score within the top eight nationally to qualify for

a place at the three-day SkillBuild National Final.

Terry Such, Curriculum lead & development officer for Construction & the Built Environment at the college, emphasised the event’s importance.

He said: “Hosting SkillBuild was a great opportunity not only for the college as a whole, but for our students, too. The competition saw 60 competitors travel from ten colleges and employers across the country, so we were privileged to be selected as a venue for the regional qualifiers.

“It was a perfect opportunity for our students and staff to witness first-hand the work that not only the construction department, but our students, have been up to this year. The competition created a real buzz around campus and we can’t wait to see where the final takes our students.”

SkillBuild highlighted the college’s commitment to creating a platform where young professionals can not only refine their skills but also gain critical exposure to industry standards and expectations, and further solidifies its role as a pivotal training ground for skilled professionals who are ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s workforce.

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