Plymouth Chronicle East May 2023

Brightening up Plymstock Broadway

The Broadway Plymstock has commissioned talented local artist Ellie Johnson, known as Mrs Murals to create new public art for Plymouth in honour of World Earth Day.

World Earth Day is an annual celebration on April 22 that aims to raise awareness of the need to protect the earth’s natural resources for future generations.

The first Earth Day was in 1970 with the aim of educating participants on the importance of environmental conservation. It’s since spread throughout the world, with over a billion people coming together to protect the planet from things like deforestation and pollution. This year’s theme is Invest in Our Planet.

Mrs Murals has created designs that celebrate the beauty of nature but are also thoughtprovoking.

The eye-catching paintings of butterflies and bees include an interactive mural of butterfly wings

for people to stand in front of for photos.

The butterfly Mrs Murals has used for these wings is the ‘Large Blue’ butterfly - an endangered UK species on the red list for extinction, but which has promisingly moved recently from ‘critically endangered’ to ‘endangered’ due to conservation efforts.

The far end of this wall includes a large sunflower head with bees surrounding it.

The second wall is inspired by World Earth Day’s aims to protect the planet and its environment. It shows hands holding the Earth, with a trail of birds emerging from it, growing larger along the wall, leading to a large image of a Turtle Dove.

Ellie said: “I chose to paint a Turtle Dove to symbolise love and peace, but also to raise awareness because they’re on the RSPB red list for endangered UK birds.”

The artwork will brighten the shopping area and hopefully help people to consider nature and the beauty of the environment all around them, especially on World Earth Day. Sara Smith, centre manager of The Broadway said: ”We are proud to have commissioned Mrs Murals to create a new piece of public art for Plymstock and we are thrilled to see it come to life in pride of place at our main entrance.

“In addition to a constantly evolving line up of new independent retailers, creative projects like this are part of a whole host of initiatives we have planned here at The Broadway in the coming year, to significantly improve the visitor experience and engage with the community we serve in new and exciting ways.”

MAY TO SEPTEMBER:

Ellie Johnson – aka Mrs Murals – working on the new public art at The Broadway Plymstock

Glen Park Primary rated ‘Outstanding’

Glen Park Primary School in Plympton has been rated as Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted inspectors.

During the recent two day visit, inspectors judged the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management all to be outstanding.

Inspectors met with school leaders, representatives from the Westcountry Schools Trust and governance. They also talked to pupils about their work and visited lessons, spoke to curriculum subject leaders and teachers and looked in depth at areas of the curriculum, including reading, mathematics, science, geography and physical education.

The report recognises what it is like for children to attend Glen Park Primary and stated: “Pupils at Glen Park Primary love to learn. The school’s motto, ‘success for all, through learning together,’ is turned into reality throughout the school. Pupils have a thirst for knowledge and are ambitious for themselves. Pupils consistently meet the high expectations that adults have of them”.

Inspectors noted that the quality of education provided by the school is exceptional. “Leaders at all levels are inspirational. Their focus on ensuring that every pupil receives the highest quality of education is relentless. Leaders are not complacent. They continually evaluate and adapt the curriculum to ensure it fully meets the needs of pupils, including those with SEND. As a result, pupils learn exceptionally well’.

The inspection team were impressed with the school’s curriculum and high quality of teaching. The report continued: “Leaders have created a highly ambitious curriculum which ensures that pupils acquire the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life. They also concluded that “Leaders have identified and sequenced the precise knowledge they want pupils to learn so they build on what they already know and can do”. The quality of teaching was judged to

be outstanding across the school.“ Supporting pupil wellbeing was also identified to be a particular strength of the school. “The way that staff nurture pupils’ well-being is a strength of the school. Pupils talk openly about the ways they look after their own mental health”. The impact of the wider curriculum was also recognised “Leaders consistently promote the personal development of all pupils. Themes such as diversity and equality are woven throughout the curriculum”.

Headteacher, Anthony Hutchings, said” We are thrilled that the inspection process has recognised the excellent work that our children and staff undertake on a daily basis. We are so proud of everyone within the school community and considering the rigour of the inspection framework, to be judged to be providing outstanding provision in all areas is a huge achievement for Glen Park Primary.

Unique dye garden created

Academics and students specialising in textile design at Arts University Plymouth have created a new plant garden for natural dye as part of their project ‘Of the Ground’.

The project is developed in collaboration with National Trust Saltram, one of the South West’s most loved National Trust properties, and sited at Plymouth’s community farm, Poole Farm, based in Derriford Community Park.

The ‘Of the Ground’ project, which is supported by Research England’s Knowledge Exchange Funding and builds on a collaborative project initiated in 2022 by the arts university and National Trust Saltram as part of the Green Minds project, which is a partnership led by Plymouth City Council and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund, Urban Innovative Actions initiative.

BA (Hons) Textiles Design course leader and textile designer, Emma Gribble, came up with the idea for the project.

Closely supported in the planning and planting stages by technical demonstrator Fiona Lloyd, Emma led her students in work to establish a natural dye garden at Poole Farm, combining Arts University Plymouth’s commitment to teaching sustainable processes with the use of local heritageinformed planting.

The National Trust supported the project research and shared a planting list from

Saltram’s archives, containing details of species used in the creation of the house’s original garden. The use of heritage-inspired plants will create a colour palette firmly rooted in Saltram and its surrounding landscape.

The textile design students and academics, who will manage the dye garden on an ongoing basis, recently visited the garden to plant and sow seeds in preparation for Spring. They were joined by volunteers and staff from Poole Farm and the National Trust, with expert guidance on planting from Dr Martin Stott, head gardener at Saltram.

Planted in raised beds, the ‘Of the Ground’ dye garden will include a variety of plants such as woad, dyer’s coreopsis,

daffodils, weld, marigolds, tansy, and madder, all sourced by local suppliers in the South West. The selection of plants were chosen in consultation with natural dye plant experts Nature’s Rainbow and natural dye guru Jane Deane. The beds were designed and constructed by the staff and volunteers at Poole Farm, including an accessible bed for wheelchair users.

Emma Gribble said: “As international awareness grows of how harmful many synthetic dyes can be to the natural world, I believe strongly that educators working within the textile and fashion industries have a responsibility to lead the way in teaching students alternative dye methods that are more sustainable and less damaging to the environment.

“This new partnership with National Trust Saltram actively investigates this. The project tests on a small scale how Arts University Plymouth can lead the way in encouraging students and textile practitioners to make more balanced decisions by building knowledge and awareness about alternative dye methods.”

As the ‘Of the Ground’ dye garden matures through the seasons, it will become a permanent resource, available for all Arts University Plymouth students to use. The range of colours it produces will be specific and unique to the local landscape.

“We are so lucky to have such a skilled and highly committed teaching team and inspectors were so impressed with the children’s attitudes to their learning and their level of engagement and motivation in the classroom. They were also incredibly impressed with how confidently and articulately they shared their views during the process. I would like to thank all pupils, staff, parents/carers and the Westcountry Schools Trust for all of their continued hard work.”

Rob Haring, chief executive of the Westcountry Schools Trust, said: “I am absolutely delighted for the staff team and children of Glen Park Primary School to have their efforts and achievements recognised so pleasingly by Ofsted. Being judged as ‘Outstanding’ is a real accolade of which to be immensely proud. The main thing, though, is that the children of Glen Park who come to school every day, are wonderfully cared for, and benefit from a super education.”

Pictured at Poole Farm (from left) Fiona Lloyd, Emma Gribble, Dr Martin Stott and Arts University Plymouth’s Tifaine Dickinson

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

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

Spring Concert

Apr 14

South-west based chamber choir Levowan XII will present an evening of beautiful choral music at St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square at 7.30pm. The programme features the premiere performance of the full and completed ’Requiem’ by Hugh Walkington, one of their own very talented members. The programme also takes the audience on a discovery of contemporary choral music from across Europe and the USA. FREE entry with a retiring collection. Levowan XII performs regularly at St Peter’s where the bright acoustics provide the perfect listening experience for their audiences. The choir has a large repertoire and enjoys singing classical works and discovering new music to share with others. For more information, visit www.levowan.co.uk

Francis Rossi - Tunes & Chat

Apr 14

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

Children’s Book Sale

Apr 15 Visitor Centre, Ford Park Cemetery from 10.30am to 1pm.

Richard III Society

Apr 15

The Devon & Cornwall branch of the Richard III Society will present a visual presentation of past Coronations, starting with King Edgar in the Chapel at Ford Park Cemetery at 1 pm. Parking is free and anyone interested in medieval history is invited to attend. Further information from the secretary on 01752 31685.

Model Railway Exhibition

Apr 15 and 16

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

The Magic Box

Until Apr 22

A fully immersive theatre experience for babies and toddlers with beautiful characters, lighting, sound, bubbles and puppets at The Soapbox Theatre, Devonport Park. For details visit www.stiltskin.org.uk/ soapbox-childrens-theatre-devonport-box-office

Warchild Concert

Apr 23

Fundraising concert for Warchild charity organised by Jeanie Moore for the very last time. Featuring five wonderful musicians - Peter Fisher, violin, Judith Hall, flute, Margaret Fingerhut, piano, Peter Oxley and Nick Meier, guitar. Concert takes place at Stoke Damerel Church at 3pm. Doors open 2.30pm. Tickets at www. wegottickets.com/event/569252

Open day at Oreston Bowls Club

Apr 23

Go along and try your hand at outdoor bowling on Sunday at 1.30pm at Deans Cross Road, Plymstock. All are welcome and free equipment loan and tuition will be available. Please wear flat shoes without heels.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum

Apr 26

Sponsored by Plymouth Samaritans at the Restore Church in Milehouse from 10am to 2pm. The forum will provide the opportunity to bring together wellbeing hubs from across Plymouth and providers with a link to mental health issues. The event is being funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. The funding will also support a local gardening project for men with mental health issues.

Coronation Cream Tea

Apr 29

Visitor Centre, Ford Oark Cemetery from 2pm to 4pm. Tickets are selling fast so anyone wishing to attend should either visit the office during working hours 10am to 3.30pm or call 01752 665442 to book a ticket.

Spring Fayre

Apr 29

St Bureaux Parish Church Community Hall, Higher Street, St Budeaux from 11am to 2.30pm. Table top sales and refreshments. Admission 20p.

Hear Better ‘Mini’ Exhibition

May 4

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

Past Coronations Exhibition

May 7 to 18

Exhibition at the Visitor Centre, Ford Park Cemetery from 10.30am to 3.30pm on weekdays and 12.30pm to 3.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Occasionally events can be cancelled through unavoidable circumstances so it is worth checking beforehand (tel. 01752 665442).

Set the Stage May 13

Sounds Musical Theatre Company return to Devonport Playhouse with Set The Stage, a show stopping concert of songs from blockbuster movies and stage shows. Matinée 2.30pm or evening 7.30pm.Tickets

from www.ticketsource.co.uk/sounds or phone

07395159955. Adults: £12, Over 65s £11, Under 16s £6. Check out Facebook or Instagram pages for more information about the company.

Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival

May 14

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

Spring Concert

May 19 and 20

Plymouth Musical Activities Club present Mac’s Musical Universe at the Devonport Playhouse. Go along to hear a variety of well-known songs about The Stars, The Sun and the Celestial. Tickets £7 on sale now. For tickets please text or call Carole Rowntree on 07926 029268.

Plymouth Pirates Weekend

May 20 and 21

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

Strictly Come Dancing - The Professionals

May 24 and 25

A spectacular line-up of some of the world’s best professional dancers will be at Plymouth Pavilions with performances each night at 7.30pm and matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm. For details visit www. strictlytheprofessionals.com

Flavour Fest

May 26 to 28

Foodie fans are in for a real treat this year as Flavour Fest returns to Plymouth city centre. It’s the South West’s largest free food and drink festival, with hundreds of local producers selling tasty treats and a chef stage with regional cookery stars showcasing their skills. Find out more on the Flavour Fest website at www.flavourfestsw.co.uk/

Plymouth Motorshow

June 3 and 4

Annual two day car show at Plymstock Albion Oaks Rugby Club from 10am to 6pm is open to vintage, old classics and sport cars including high performance car rally vehicles, kit cars and modern cars of interest of all motor sport clubs and motor cycles. Children’s entertainment, a family fun dog show (courtesy of Paws4Proceeds) an assortment of live local bands, food and of course, bar. Overnight camping is available for vendors and car show entrants.

An Evening with Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards

Jun 11

The legendary ski jumper - the first and only competitor to represent Great Britain at the Winter Olympics is appearing at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 7.30pm. Tickets from www. comicalentertainment.com

Models and Railway Exhibition

Jun 17

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

Rehabilitation Triathlon

June 22

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

Armed Forces Day

June 24

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

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.

Plymouth’s popular Flavour Fest returns to the city centre in May

House For Sale

A good Investment for Landlords Alexandra Road, Mutley Plain Guide Price £280,000 Offers around 270,000 AN EXCELLENT PROPERTY AND GOOD LOCATION. Please ring for details at BRADLEYS ESTATE AGENT Tel. 01752 260400

01752 642445

The new Archdeacon of Plymouth is the Rev’d Jane Bakker, who is currently Priest-in-Charge of a large parish in Southampton and was the former Area Dean.

Rev’d Bakker grew up in Cambridge and joined the RAF as an assistant Air Traffic Controller before working in accounts and becoming a management accountant.

She felt called to ordination soon after becoming a Christian and trained at Trinity College, Bristol, where she met her husband, Greg. She was ordained in 2001.

She said “I am most looking forward to getting to know the people of Plymouth Archdeaconry and discovering the joys and challenges of ministry in Devon. It is not an area I know well, and I will enjoy exploring the region.

“I find hope when I see small churches, sometimes in challenging circumstances, making a big impact in their local community. When the resilient and resourceful congregations gather around a renewed vision of God’s kingdom, then hope is irrepressible.  The message of Jesus is one of transformation. In the thousands of small changes that follow the movement of God’s spirit, hope grows.”

Jane succeeds the Ven. Nick Shutt, who is retiring at Easter.

She said that she was looking forward to working with churches in both urban and rural areas and across the spectrum of church traditions. “When churches respond to the needs of their community in imaginative ways, diversity and individuality emerge. The joy of being part of a broad church is that there is room for every expression of church – we are only limited by our imagination!”

The Bishop of Plymouth, the Rt. Rev’d James Grier, said “I am delighted that Jane is going to be the new Archdeacon of Plymouth and can’t wait to work with her as we partner in serving the people of Plymouth Archdeaconry.

“She brings a fantastic combination of pastoral, administrative and strategic gifts, along with great faith and enthusiasm, which are all essential for an archdeacon!

“I look forward to this new season of growing the kingdom in the wonderful west of Devon.”

Jane, who enjoys being “a serial crafter” in her spare time, plans to move to Devon in May.

She said “I like to walk with my dog Orla and my husband. We enjoy being by water, so we are looking forward to exploring Devon’s rivers and coastlines.”

Jane will be collated (licensed) as Archdeacon of Plymouth in a special service at St Eustachius church, Tavistock, on June 13 at 7pm. She will be installed as a member of the College of Canons at Exeter Cathedral during Choral Evensong on June 27 at 5.30pm.

Anyone is welcome to attend both services.

Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe

Costa manager Dawn in memorable trip to Vietnam

The manager of a Costa Coffee drive through in Plympton has spent five days in Vietnam in recognition of her fundraising efforts.

Dawn Cave, manager of the drive through in Gateway Retail Park off Plymouth Road, was one of 12 Costa Coffee team members from across the country who were chose to visit and experience the work done by the Costa Foundation in Vietnam to help support and educate coffee growing communities.

Dawn Cave

Dawn, 51, has been working for Costa Coffee for the past six years and is a passionate fundraiser for the Costa Foundation. She was recognised on behalf of her amazing team, who were the highest fundraising Costa Coffee store in 2022.

Collectively the store helped raise over £18,000 for the charity through climbing Snowdon, doing a sponsored ten-mile walk,

Can we help you live a happier healthier lifestyle?

Are you over 18 and need help or support with something that is affecting you or your life but doesn’t need direct help from Adult Social Care or Health Services?

to in-store fundraising with dress-up days, raffles and selling arts and crafts. Handpicked out of thousands of Costa Coffee team members, Dawn was recognised for the once in a lifetime opportunity.

During the five day visit to Vietnam Dawn and the group visited nursery schools in the Wake Lak province of Vietnam, meeting children, parents and teachers at schools

A charity at the heart of our community, supporting and inspiring people to improve their health and wellbeing

that have been built by the Costa Foundation over the past five years.

The group also attended the opening ceremonies of some of the newest schools to be built by the Costa Foundation across Vietnam.

The visits highlighted the difference that the charity is making to improve access to education for children across coffee growing regions.

Speaking about the trip, Dawn said: “Visiting Vietnam and seeing the amazing work of the Costa Foundation and meeting the children was an incredible experience. I feel truly privileged to have been chosen for this trip and to be able to see how our hard work over the years is helping children in Vietnam.

“I am proud to support the Costa Foundation which is making a positive contribution to coffee growing communities globally and this visit has inspired me to fundraise even more! From the trip to Vietnam, I have learnt that not every child has the same access to education that we may take for granted, and this needs to change. I am more motivated than ever to continue to raise money for the Costa Foundation to help all children have a fair chance at life by accessing the education they need to learn and grow.”

We are trialling this new support from Monday 10th April until 31st July 2023 and would urge you to get in contact.

Plymouth Community Assist (PCA) at the charity Improving Lives Plymouth is a free service to help Plymouth residents find information and support from voluntary and community groups and businesses in your local area.

Our aim is to allow people to live healthier more independent lives for longer by offering both preventative and complimentary services that work alongside the NHS and Adult Social Care. This could include conversations about accessing community group’s to combat isolation, maximising income, form filling, discussions about utility and food provision, long term health condition support, housing and where to gain free legal advice.

The PCA team are waiting to provide you with good quality information, advice, support and signposting that helps you to make informed decisions about your well-being, and will work with you to discuss the options available to find the best solution for you.

Your wellbeing request may feel small but if you need help and support with it give us a call…

The Costa Foundation was established in 2007, with the aim of improving the life chances of children in coffee growing communities by helping them access a safe, quality education. In Vietnam, children need to be able to speak Kinh, Vietnam’s national language, to access primary education. The Costa Foundation funds nursery schools in these remote areas to ensure children can learn Kinh from an early age and benefit from full schooling.

Over the last 16 years the Costa Foundation has supported 24 nursery schools in Vietnam, with a 100 per cent record of accomplishment of children leaving with the ability to speak Kinh.

In 2022 alone, they completed five new schools and ten schools’ expansions, with six new schools under construction across the world’s coffee growing regions. Additionally, two new programmes of work also started in Zambia and Ethiopia. For 2023, seven new schools are planned to be completed across Ethiopia, Colombia, and Peru, whilst adding extra facilities and expanding six schools across Uganda, Zambia, and Ethiopia.

John English, community manager at Costa Coffee, who also took part in the special visit said: “The Costa Foundation exists to help provide a safe and quality education for children in coffee growing communities. An amazing total of £1.2 million was raised for the charity in 2022, which was made up of a combination of corporate donations, donations from product sales, and in-store fundraising activities – such as Dawn’s.

Telephone – 01752 201898

Email - PCA@improvinglivesplymouth.org.uk

Complete an online referral at www.improvinglivesplymouth.org.uk/plymouth-community-assist

“We are honoured to have been able to acknowledge the achievements and hard work of our twelve Costa Coffee’s team members by taking them on an unforgettable trip to Vietnam, where they saw first-hand the difference that they, their stores and their communities are making.”

Dawn Cave (fourth from right) pictured during a visit to one of the schools supported by the Costa Foundation

Coffee growing

PRIDE & JOY The Home and Garden Maintenance Team

Our services include:

• hedge & shrub maintenance • weeding

• tree work • lawn care & grass cutting

• creation of flower & veggie beds • trellis work

• shed & greenhouse work • pond care

• general garden tidying • fencing & gates

• patios, decking and general landscaping work

Call NOW to discuss your needsWe can help! One-off or regular service.

www.prideandjoy-homeandgarden.co.uk

01752 961639 / 07773339470

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Mahatma Gandhi

!"#$%&'(

)!(&*"

”Best experience in years for a dentist visit. Friendly, informative and confidence inspiring. Thankyou” - Paul G.

Mobile giant to recruit 250 new staff in Plymouth

EE, the UK’s biggest mobile network operator is planning to take on 250 more people to work at its centre in Plymouth this year.

The organisation will recruit the new staff in the city over the next six months as part of a drive by EE, part of BT Group, to boost staff numbers across its contact centres.

Plymouths new family-run dental practice based in Elburton

• Mobile Repair Service

• Spares for PVC/Aluminium

• Doors & Windows / Handles & Hinges

• Wide Range Of Locks & Mechanisms

• Garage Door Repairs / Patio Door Wheels

• Free Estimates & No Call-Out Charge

• Double Glazed Sealed units

Visit our Shop For Trade & DIY Tel: 01752 221156

www.thedoordoctor.co.uk

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

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

We offer a wide range of treatments and are taking on new patients right now

You can register with us online at www.elburton.dental or give us a call on 01752 310000

The roles will be based at the recently refurbished EE contact centre in Plymouth and will be added over the next six months covering service roles for the company.

The complete refit of the centre, located at Langage Business Park in, Plympton, was completed at the end of last year, creating a modern workspace for the 1,000 or so colleagues based there.

The refurbishment has resulted in new café and restaurant facilities, flexible workspaces, collaboration areas, and ‘relax and refuel’ spaces.

For more information on the available roles, please visit www.bt.com/careers

“Learn as if you will live forever, live like you will die tomorrow.”

Winner! 2020 Best New Private Dental Practice – SW England

Andy Cooper chosen as next Stannator

Andy Cooper is to be the next Stannator of Plympton. He was chosen for the role following a ballot of members at the annual meeting of Plympton Community Council on March 24.

Nominations are sought in January each year and between then and the AGM in March member organisations of the Plympton Community Council meet to decide who they wish their representative to vote for.

Andy, who is very well-known and active in the Plympton St Maurice area, was described on his nomination form as ‘one of those unsung heroes that every community has.’

Andy has been on the committee of the Plympton St Maurice Civic Association for many years and heavily involved in their projects. At the annual Lamb Feast he takes the lead in health and safety, field layout, managing the teams of men to construct the marquees, arrival and departure of stall holders and then the clearing of the site after the event.

He was also involved in the refurbishment of Plympton St Maurice Guildhall, a building of

historic interest, where under Andy’s guidance a small team installed a new kitchen, totally revamped the entrance hall and also painted and decorated the interior. It is no secret that Andy

was often seen working there alone using his expertise as a carpenter and general builder. Among his other achievements Andy was instrumental in providing Plympton St Maurice

with a defibrillator which is situated outside of the Guildhall. He applied for and received funding towards the cost, but also encouraged crowd-funding from the locals on the Plympton Social WhatsApp group which he administers.

To the wider community Andy is very well known in judo circles. He has been teaching judo in Plympton for nearly 40 years. Five of his pupils have been selected for the National Squad and one pupil represented Great Britain in the Commonwealth Games.

Andy’s role as the instructor encompasses not just teaching judo skills but often dealing with children who have challenging behavioural or mental health issues and the benefit they derive from his lessons is immense.

He is also involved with the Plympton Hash House Harriers, a running group who also do a lot of charity fundraising.

Andy will take over from current Stannator Pastor Arno Bessel in a ceremony at Harewood House at the end of April.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

CAR WASH RAISES OVER £1.5K FOR FIREFIGHTERS CHARITY

A charity car wash at Plympton Fire Station raised £1,505 for the Firefighters Charity.

People drove in with a variety of vehicle types to be washed in return for making a charitable donation and there was also a draw with a number of prizes having been donated by local businesses.

Plympton firefighters were joined by their colleagues from other stations in Plymouth and got busy washing the large number of vehicles brought in for cleaning.

It wasn’t just cars that their owners brought in for an external spruce up. There was the occasional motorhome and even a horsebox at one stage. Visitors were able to take a look at fire fighting appliances based at the station and also a Renault Twizy car which the fire service uses for promotional work. There was also a visit from Pilgrim Pete and smoke alarm mascot Smokey was also there.

A spokesperson for Plympton Fire Station said: “We cannot thank you all enough for coming down and supporting this amazing cause.” Speaking of the sum raised, a representative of the Firefighters charity added: “That’s a wonderful result.”

Details of the charity’s work can be found at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk

01752 339373

Plympton Bowling Club is inviting people of all ages to have a go at lawn green bowling – for free.

The club is holding an open day on Saturday April 22 from 10.30am to 3pm at the Bowling Club in Harewood Park, Plympton. No appointment is necessaryjust turn up.

Having tried bowling and enjoyed it, people can proceed to have weekly lessons over a six week period at no cost. Only after completion of the coaching period do participants decide if they want to become a playing member and join the club.

The club offers good bowling and social events all year round, even on a weekly basis throughout the winter period with all activities being enjoyed by majority of club members.

For further information call chairman Chris Edwards on 07982 685 898.

INVITATION TO TRY BOWLING IN PLYMPTON... ...OR PLYMSTOCK

Oreston and District Bowls Club is holding an open day in April when men and women can try outdoor bowling for themselves.

The small, friendly club welcomes ladies and gentlemen of all ages and abilities to take part in outdoor bowling from early April to early October each year.

The green is a haven of peace and quiet and is located on Dean Cross Road, Plymstock, behind the children’s play area and adjacent to an ample car park. Number 2A and 5A buses stop nearby.

The club play regularly in both league and friendly matches against other local clubs and all members are encouraged to take part. League matches can be on any day of the week and at weekends in afternoons or evenings so all should be able to take part competitively if they desire.

For the less competitive and beginners, members can play as often as they like on any day of the week subject to suitable weather conditions and there being no competitions taking place or green maintenance in progress.

Guidance and coaching is available for beginners for a free trial period and all equipment will be available to loan, so just have a go but flat shoes without heels must be worn.

Members pay an annual subscription to the club, and green fees to the Plymouth City Council who own and maintain the facilities to a high standard.

The open day is taking place at 1.30pm on Sunday April 23 when potential new members, both experienced players and beginners will be welcome to go along, have a game and meet the club’s friendly members.

Anyone who is unable to attend on this date but would like to try bowling, please phone Chris on 01752 941750.

Current Stannator Pastor Arno Bessel congratulates Andy Cooper upon being elected to be his successor

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Plymouth to host sailing world championship

Plymouth is to host a prestigious world sailing championship next year.

Britain’s Ocean City will be the venue for the 45th edition of the J/24 World Championship in 2025.

The Plym Yacht Club, Saltash Sailing Club and the UK J/24 Class Association will jointly run the event which will take place between September 6 and September 14 next year.

The event will be based on the Mount Batten peninsula, supported by Yacht Havens Group and the Port of Plymouth Sailing Association, with five days of racing planned south of Plymouth Sound.

Event co-director Sam Marshall said “We are absolutely delighted to have been given the privilege and honour of hosting the 2025 World Championship. J sailors across the country were gutted to not have the opportunity to race in the 2020 Worlds in Poole due to Covid, so to be able to host boats from around the world in the UK will be fantastic.

“The Port of Plymouth has had an active J/24 fleet for at least 30 years, and we are expecting some strong competition in the lead up to the event over the next three years.

“Events like SailGP have done a phenomenal job of showing what Plymouth

has to offer on the water, and we are sure that people will want to travel from across the world to get a chance to sail in the same waters that they have now seen on television with the likes of Ben Ainslie and Tom Slingsby.

“The J/24 is a brilliant boat because it is really quite accessible due to its size and relatively low cost.

“ Teams sail with between four and six people, so we are expecting to see a diverse selection of sailors from local amateurs to international professionals.

“We are anticipating over 50 boats, with about 500 people coming to Plymouth for the event over the week.

“ There will be spectator boats on the racecourse too, allowing the public and event partners to get up close with the action. The racing is seriously close and there will be plenty of spectacular boat-on-boat action for the racers and spectators alike. We can’t wait!”

The J/24 is the most popular keelboat in the world, with some 5,500 boats sailing worldwide, and although it was designed in 1977, still attracts large fleets internationally, including 20 that actively race in port at the host clubs Plymouth Yacht Club and Saltash Sailing Club.

DOZENS OF NEW TREES PLANTED IN PLYMPTON

Dozens of new trees have been planted in Pathfields, including an Elder Tree chosen by 2017/18 Stannator of Plympton Andrew Hill.

It is a tradition for each Stannator to plant a tree in Plympton to mark their year in office and planting of trees for the past few Stannators has been delayed for various reasons. Now, though, a catch up programme is happening.

The tree planted by Andrew was a Sambucus Niagra Black Lace which is part of the Elder Tree family of shrubs and trees and is more informally known as the Common Elder.

It is a deciduous species and when in leaf it has almost black foliage which turns a rich red in autumn. When in bloom the tree has pink-flushed blooms.

Sambucus nigra bears sprays of tiny white flowers in early summer followed by small redblack elderberries which can be cooked and eaten, or used to make a refreshing summer drink. As such it makes an interesting addition to the community orchard in Pathfields.

Andrew said: “I chose an Elder Tree because

my adopted charity when I was Stannator was the Elder Tree who provide befriending and other services for the over 50s. Therefore not only does this tree mark my year in office but it also serves as a reminder of the wonderful and much needed services provided by the Elder Tree charity. The fact the tree may also produce some fruits within the community orchard is an added bonus.”

The ceremony involving the new Elder tree was part of a wider tree planting programme in Pathfields organised by Plymouth City Council in conjunction with the Plymouth Tree Partnership and Plympton St Maurice Civic Association.

Current Stannator Pastor Arno Bessel chose  Golden Square in Colebrook as the site of his Stannator’s tree, which is a Sweet Gum with the botanical name Liquidambar Styracifula ‘Festeri’.

When developed this is a broadly conical tree with deeply divided, glossy leaves. In autumn the leaves will turn brilliant orange, red and purple. Also at Golden Square is a flowering crab apple tree ‘Malus tschonoski’ planted recently by former Stannator Rose Hamley.

(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Former Stannators Andrew Hill and Rose Hamley planted trees (above) as did current Stannator Pastor Arno Bessel (below). Photos by Charlotte Willis

Action from a J24 championship

Plymouth performing arts students wow West End audiences

Gifted students from the local Stagecoach Performing Arts Plymouth have graced the iconic West End Shaftesbury Theatre.

The school travelled to London to perform and worked tremendously hard during rehearsals in what made for a spectacular event. As part of the show, the students performed a variety of renditions of world-famous songs and productions, including a combination of favourites from Back To The Future - The Musical.

On the night,families and friends alike were able to enjoy a plethora of performances by the Plymouth students who were joined by 15 other schools from across the country.

Stagecoach’s students have been able to perform at the iconic venue with many amazing performances over the years, and this was another enormous milestone for Stagecoach’s spring term. These showcases build on the students’ creativity, courage and skills that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

In the nearly 35 years since launching, Stagecoach Performing Arts has seen more than one million students unlock their creative potential, which they will value for their whole lives. Provided with the support and dedication of such an outstanding Principal network, the students learn so much more than how to sing, dance and act. Stagecoach helps them blossom into well-rounded individuals, ready to embrace life and all of its exciting opportunities. Stagecoach Performing Arts is also thrilled to be celebrating its 35-year anniversary next month.

The value of performing arts training extends far beyond the opportunities for professional performance features. Recent Stagecoach survey research highlighted the incredible positive

impacts the arts have on children’s happiness and creativity, with 85% of children citing singing and dancing with their peers as a major contributing factor to their happiness.

Almost half (41%) of the nation’s parents are concerned that their children are less happy growing up than their generation had been. Encouraging participation in the arts will have

undeniable benefits for the wellbeing of both children and parents.

With a network of over 55,000 students and more than 3000 extra-curricular Performing Arts Schools worldwide, Stagecoach aims to make a difference in its students’ lives by teaching

Creative Courage for Life and many children have gone on to study and work in Performing Arts from

blockbuster films to countless roles in local theatre productions.

Early Stages classes are available for children aged four to six and Main Stages classes take place for six to 18-year-olds every weekend during term time. For more information about Stagecoach Plymouth, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/plymouth or call 03300 500101

Students from Stagecoach Performing Arts Plymouth on stage at the Shaftesbury Theatre

Charity’s holiday lifeline for bereaved Forces families

Scotty’s Little Soldiers, the charity for bereaved military children and young people, have officially opened their seventh Scotty lodge for bereaved Forces families.

As well as offering a range of support to children and young people up to the age of 25, who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces, Scotty’s Little Soldiers provides respite breaks to give bereaved military families a chance to get away from their daily routines and make new happy memories together. Because the break is organised by Scotty’s, families naturally have conversations about their loved one who has died. It’s an opportunity to talk in a safe environment away from home.

The new lodge, based at Devon Cliffs in Exmouth, was unveiled in an opening ceremony attended by Scotty’s founder, Nikki Scott, the Palin family from Plymouth, who are supported by the charity, and representatives from Forces Support, who have generously funded the entire costs associated with the new lodge. The ceremony involved the cutting of a ribbon and a celebration with cake, balloons and a special visit from Haven’s mascots.

Breaks away

The Palin family have been supported by Scotty’s since 2013. Cpl Mark Palin was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2011, aged 33. He left behind his wife Carla and son Lennon, who was just one at the time. Their daughter, Ruby, was born a few months after his death. The Palins have benefited from a range of support from Scotty’s, including breaks away.

Lennon, who is now 13 years old, said: “To me, Scotty breaks mean having fun and enjoying yourself. Rather than being sat at home on the Xbox, we get to go out, do stuff and have a good time as a family.”

Eleven-year-old Ruby said: “Scotty’s is really special. It’s got a special place in my heart. You know if there are other people here from Scotty’s, you can relate to them.”

Their mum Carla added: “The new lodge is amazing. You get to have some time away from life and school and work and just come away and be a family and make great memories together. That’s really important to me because Lennon and Ruby weren’ t able to make any memories with their dad.”

Forces Support is a UK bereavement and veterans’ charity who have shown their dedication to Forces families by providing Scotty’s Little Soldiers with funding to cover the costs of the new lodge. They previously funded all Scotty’s respite breaks for the whole of 2021 and have continued their support by funding breaks for 100 bereaved military families each year from 2022 to 2024.

Scotty’s founder, Nikki, set up Scotty’s Little Soldiers in 2010 following the death of her husband, Corporal Lee Scott, in Afghanistan. The first thing she wanted to do was to give bereaved military children the opportunity to go on a respite break.

This idea occurred to her on a family holiday nine months after her husband’s death, when she saw her son, Kai – who was five at the time –playing in the swimming pool and smile for the first time since his dad had died. Nikki wanted to give other bereaved Forces children the same opportunity to smile.

Nikki said: “As soon as I saw the positive impact a holiday had on my family, I wanted to provide breaks for other bereaved Forces families. Including our new lodge at Devon Cliffs, Scotty’s now has seven holiday homes, which means more bereaved military families can have that muchneeded break, spend some quality time together, have those really important conversations about their loved one and remember that it’s okay to smile. That’s what it’s all about.”

Nikki continued: “We are so grateful to Forces

Support for their incredible generosity which enables us to make a difference to the lives of children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces.”

Scotty’s respite breaks take place all over the UK, with six more lodges located around UK Haven sites, including one other at Devon Cliffs, just a short walk from the brand-new lodge. Due to the number of families the charity supports, Scotty’s also provides breaks at Butlins, Alton Towers and Center Parcs.

So far this year, Scotty’s has supported over 600 bereaved children and young people, and the charity has a long-term goal of supporting 1000 bereaved military children and young people annually by 2030.

Scotty’s Little Soldiers provides relief from the effects of bereavement to children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces. Services offered to Scotty’s members include access to child bereavement support, guidance to parents and carers, personal education and learning assistance (including grants), and fun activities such as holiday respite breaks and group events. These are all designed to remind the children and young people supported by Scotty’s that they are not alone.

For more information on Scotty’s Little Soldiers, go to www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk For more information on Forces Support, go to www. forcessupport.org.uk

Plymouth mum Carla Palin pictured with her son Lennon and daughter Ruby at the new holiday lodge

Plymouth gets connected

Connect Plymouth is now up and running offering new, more sustainable ways to get around the city.

People got the chance at a special event at the Piazza to try out electric bikes and learn about how easy it will soon become to get from A to B using the greener forms of transport.

The event attracted plenty of people wanting to find out more about how the schemes work in practice, when the e-bikes will be ready to hire and to hear more about car clubs and e-chargers.

Docking stations have been popping up all over the city and when fully operational, Beryl Bikes will have a 500-strong fleet of electric bikes for hire from over 90 sites across the city.

There will be an additional 300 parking bays across the city with electric vehicle charge points provided by Wenea. The council has awarded a contract to Co Cars to run a fleet of electric car club vehicles within Plymouth.

Initially there will be 28 docking stations – or Beryl bays – with 125 bikes ready to ride and more due to come online throughout the rest of the year.

Kate Palmer, Beryl Scheme lead for Plymouth, said: “We’re extremely delighted to be launching our scheme in Plymouth, a city with a

clear and exciting vision to promote sustainable travel.

“Our e-bikes are a really fun and versatile way to travel and their extra power can really open up areas,

enabling riders to tackle hills and undertake longer journeys.

“They’re also great for commuting, allowing people to arrive at work clean and ready to go, and for

carrying heavier loads such as shopping.

“By swapping the car for an e-bike journey you’re not only boosting your own health and fitness, you’re also helping to reduce congestion and harmful carbon emissions, so why not give it a try.”

Nic Eversett, managing director of Co Cars said: “We’re passionate about creating less congested and polluted environments by offering alternatives to the private car. That’s why we’re delighted to partner with Plymouth City Council on this exciting project.

“Because our cars are shared, they are used far more efficiently – around 35 per cent of the time compared to just four per cent for private cars. Our members can also save thousands every year as they only pay for the time they drive plus mileage.

“Cars are bookable 24/7 by app from as little as half an hour to a few days. As well as Plymouth, they are also available from locations across the South West.”

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

José Contreras, head of Wenea UK added: “Wenea is delighted to be part of Connect Plymouth, an initiative that vastly improves access to sustainable transport modes around the city.

“By delivering 150 chargers to Plymouth, supported by our userfriendly app, we are removing a critical barrier holding residents back from using electric vehicles. This will cut carbon emissions, improve air quality and create a more enjoyable transportation experience in Plymouth.”

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

A fleet of 500 electric Beryl bikes will soon be available to hire in Plymouth

Co Cars have been awarded the contract to provide electric cars for hire in Plymouth

Start a new career in child and family social wor k

Graduates and people looking for a career change are being invited to ‘Step Up to Social Work’ and join Plymouth City Council’s Children’s Services team.

Step Up To Social Work is a 14-month, full-time, highly-rewarding training programme for talented graduates and career changers to become the next generation of child and family social workers.

It is designed for people who want to become a social worker, but do not have a degree in social work. Successful applicants train through a combination of academic study and hands on social work experience in a local authority, receiving support with training costs and a bursary of £19,833 over the duration of the programme. Applications are open now. Applicants eligible for the programme, which includes financial support alongside training, will be individuals with experience of working with vulnerable children, young people, families or adults, and who can demonstrate emotional resilience and potential for success.

Step Up To Social Work aims to attract applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds resulting in a workforce that represents the society that it serves.

Councillor Charlotte Carlyle, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children and Young People said: “Our absolute priority is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in Plymouth, and our team of social workers play a vital role here in helping to support vulnerable children and their families.

“If you’re looking for a new career where you can really make a positive difference to people’s lives, please consider stepping up to social work and joining our passionate and determined Children’s Services team.”

Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, Claire Coutinho said:  “I’ve been truly inspired by the social workers that I’ve met. The passion and support they provide for children and families is a real testament to the profession and it is what makes it such a rewarding career. To attract more great social workers we’re helping councils, including Plymouth City Council, with recruitment and retention, along with better support for social workers with new early career development.”

The Step Up programme is backed by a £25 million investment by the Department for Education to support 700 individuals to enter the social work profession in local authorities across England in 2024.

This will be the eighth cohort of Step Up since 2010, since then the programme has successfully supported over 2,300 social workers to enter the profession across England.

For more information visit susw.eu-careers.pocketrecruiter.com/

Plymstock Matters with

Councillor Rebecca Smith

War veteran, pot holes, World Book Day and some great news on housing - it’s all in a month’s work!

It has been a busy month! Here are a few highlights for you, covering Plymstock as always, with some news about Plympton this time too.

First, a follow-up story. You might remember me mentioning Second World War Bomber Command veteran, Ivor Foster, who I met with recently. As a result of my article here, Charles Cook, a Plymstock resident, got in touch to say he would love to meet Ivor.

It was great to be able to introduce the two. They’ve started to meet regularly and as Charles said when we spoke: ‘It’s not every day you get to meet a hero.’

As part of World Book Day, I was invited by local charity, Promoting Children in Plymouth, to read to Key Stage One children at Morley Meadow Primary School.

We had a great time reading ‘The Adventures of Scout: The Missing Bees’ and finding Scout’s little friend Vinnie the Frog on each page. It was great to visit this new school in Saltram Meadow for the first time.

I recently went out on a pot hole visit with senior highways engineers and my colleague, Cllr Kathy Watkin. We made sure they saw the areas we get the most complaints about and they’ve taken a list of work to do away with them.

Unfortunately, many of our Plymstock roads have a concrete layer below the tarmac which stops the defects turning into pot holes which is why they don’t all get filled. However, the team agreed that Plymstock would be a prime candidate for them to use a new piece of kit we’re hoping is coming soon and which fixes shallower defects.

Wearing my housing hat, of all the projects we’ve worked on this year, the one I’ve been most excited about has been a deal between Plymouth Community Homes, Homes England and the council to secure the purchase of 86 ex-MOD houses at Hillcrest Close in Plympton from Annington Homes. (See story on page 16). How often do you get to add 86 family homes, including over 50 for social rent and 20 for shared

ownership to the housing stock in the city in one go?! Delighted it has come to fruition.

Are you planning on voting in person on local election Polling Day on Thursday May 4? If so, please don’t forget you will need to take photo ID with you – there are a number of options you can take including a Passport, Driving licence (including provisional licence), Blue badge, identity card with PASS mark (Proof of

Age Standards Scheme), Older Person’s Bus Pass, Disabled Person’s Bus Pass, Defence identity card. It is also possible to obtain a free document from the Electoral Commission if you don’t have photo ID. More information can be found here: www. plymouth.gov.uk/voter-id

And finally, I wanted to use this column to clear up some misunderstanding on parking in Plymstock and Plympton. I’ve had a lot of enquiries about this! Following some recent changes, parking remains free at the Long Stay car parks in Plympton District Centre and is free at the Short Stay Ridgeway Car Park for up to three hours (four if you have a Blue Badge).

The free parking in the Short Stay section at the Plymstock Broadway has also been extended to three hours (four with a Blue Badge) and existing charges in the Long Stay section remain. Drivers will shortly be required to enter their vehicle registration to confirm the start of the free parking, bringing these car parks in line with others in the city where this has been required for several years. No new charges in district car parks are being introduced and none are planned.

The proposed consultation to consider whether parking restrictions and charges should be introduced at leisure car parks such as Jennycliff, Mount Batten and Devil’s Point has been scrapped after local Councillors including me and my Radford colleagues objected to the plans.

As ever, you are welcome to email me on rebecca.smith@ plymouth.gov.uk or find me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @PlymouthRebecca.

U-TURN ON CHARGES FOR LEISURE CAR PARKS - BUT COST OF PARKING INCREASES IN CITY

Parking charges will not now be introduced at a number of leisure car parks in Plymouth following opposition by local ward councillors.

Earlier this month it was announced that Plymouth City Council would be asking residents for their views on introducing minimal parking charges at Mount Batten (on-street and car park), Jennycliff, Devils Point and Strand Street car parks – all of which are currently free – with the revenue being reinvested into improvements in each car park.

In addition, the consultation would have

included proposals on introducing a small charge at the Life Centre (£1 for 24 hours parking) for customers of the centre, to help prevent non-users from migrating to the Life Centre car park, creating challenges for centre customers.

As part of the initial engagement, ward councillors expressed their concern on the proposals, therefore the Cabinet Member for Transport has decided they will not move forward. Councillor Jonathan Drean said: “As part of our wider budget programme, we highlighted that we would look at ways we could help address the increase in operating costs of parking in the city.

This proposal was exactly that. It was one idea. We committed to listening to views and that started with us engaging with councillors. It is clear that introducing charges at our leisure car parks would not be a viable option, therefore the proposal will not be moving ahead.”

Meanwhile on and off street parking charges in the rest of the city will rise by 10 per cent from April 1. Hourly on street parking charges will rise from £2 to £2.20 and all day parking from £15 to £16.50. Off street parking chargesa across the city will rise by a similar amount. Residents parking permits will rise from £41 to £45.

Charles Cook meets up with veteran Ivor Foster

Reading with the youngsters at Morley Meadow Primary School on World Book Day

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

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

Let Ability Bathe make your life easier. It is small enough to be very personal and approachable, and large enough to have the experience to complete a wide range of bathroom installations quickly and successfully to a very high standard.

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

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

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

Ability Bathe offers home appointments up to 8pm; for a free, no-obligation quotation call 07711 184309.

you deliver the Plymouth Chronicle?

Plympton affordable homes boost

A funding package totalling £7.6million will enable Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) to move ahead with the purchase of 86 homes in Plymouth which will be made available for affordable rent or shared ownership by local people in housing need.

Grants provided by Homes England and Plymouth City Council will be vital in enabling PCH to purchase 86 three-bed homes at Hillcrest Close in Plympton, as well as 80 garages on the former Ministry of Defence (MOD) estate.

Once the sale is complete, the properties will be refurbished by PCH as part of a £21.5 million project to provide much-needed threebedroom homes for Plymouth, with at least 53 made available for social rent by local people, and 20 homes will be offered for shared ownership sale through the organisation’s sales brand SO Living

The project will also provide long-term security for 12 families currently living in some of the homes, who will see their tenancies transfer to PCH after years of uncertainty.

The estate at Hillcrest Close will now be purchased by PCH from Annington. The properties have been leased by the MOD from Annington (the freeholder) since 1996.

Of the 86 houses, a number have been empty for some time, with only 12 remaining occupied by non-MOD personnel. Aware of the situation facing these tenants, their local MP Sir Gary Streeter strongly supported the purchase by PCH, which will bring to an end years of uncertainty about the future of their tenancies. PCH will be able to offer the existing residents new, assured tenancies, giving them long-term security in their homes.

The purchase also includes a large community centre which PCH hopes to let to a local business or community group.

The purchase will be made possible thanks to grants from Homes England and Plymouth City Council totalling £7.6million towards the overall project cost, which is estimated to be £21.5 million including the purchase price for the estate, fees and refurbishment costs.

Nick Jackson, director of Business Services and Development at Plymouth Community Homes, said: “There is a significant need for good quality, affordable social housing in the local area at present, especially for families in need of threebed homes, with a growing number of families in the Plymouth area managing in temporary accommodation while they wait for permanent housing to become available.

“We are very grateful for the substantial grant funding agreed from Homes England and Plymouth City Council which will enable PCH to go ahead with the purchase of 86 homes on this popular residential estate.

“Once refurbished, the estate will provide a

Former city student’s dream designer role with top eco fashion brand Lucy & Yak

Andrew Girdler, a former pre-degree student from Arts University Plymouth, has joined ethical clothing company Lucy & Yak as a graphic designer.

He studied at Arts University Plymouth’s campus for further education until completing his Extended Diploma in graphic design in 2015.

Lucy & Yak is an eco-conscious clothing company, with stores in Brighton, Bristol, Norwich and Nottingham and a significant global online presence. Founded by couple Lucy and Chris, and

named after their Volkswagen van Yak, the couple’s aim was to create eco-conscious, comfortable clothing using organic and recycled materials. Their bright and colourful patterned designs have become synonymous with the brand and since the launch of their dungarees in 2017, they now offer everything from loungewear and jumpsuits to bags, belts and hats.

Originally from Plymouth, and now based in Brighton, Andrew, aged 25, said: “I’d followed Lucy & Yak online for a few years and loved their branding, so when in 2020 they posted a graphic designer role on Instagram, I applied straight away. Due to the pandemic there was actually a two-year gap between my first conversations with the team and me actually joining. While it was a long time, I’m super glad I joined when I did. Those two years allowed me to learn so much more about design and motion graphics.

“I’d had experience working in the print, publishing and live music businesses, but had never worked for a fashion company before. There was plenty for me to catch up on in terms of digital marketing.

“My position as graphic designer means I work alongside our amazing lead designer Val, creating assets for marketing campaigns, communications, events, our digital platforms and clothing graphics. The job has pushed me to delve deeper into creative software and learning to work in a way that is more digitally focused than any of my previous roles. Every member of the team is super talented and supportive, it’s been the perfect

large number of spacious three-bed homes in a sought-after location which will be made available for social rent by local families, as well as 20 for shared ownership purchase to help people onto the housing ladder.

“This project will go a long way in easing pressure on the numbers of local people waiting for a secure, long-term home, and breathe new life into a residential estate where many properties have sat empty for some time.”

Councillor Rebecca Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at Plymouth City Council, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be able to bring these houses back into use for people who really need them.

“This has been a colossal team effort with our local partnerships yet again bearing fruit for the residents of Plymouth.

“I can’t wait to see families in this street again, turning houses into homes and breathing life back into Hillcrest Close.”

The proposed purchase would also include a large community centre, which has potential for future development, and 80 garages, which PCH will also take over and rent out.

The three-bed homes will be refurbished and modernised by PCH, with new insultation and energy-efficient upgrades made to improve their environmental performance and help reduce energy costs for residents, before being made available for social rent by local people in housing need.

The area is already popular with families, with the estate located close to both Chaddlewood and Glen Park Primary schools, and close to other amenities in the popular Plympton area.

environment for me to grow as a designer.

“My advice to people trying to get into graphic design is start by making the kind of art you want to make, even if you’re not doing it professionally. Building up a portfolio of work is just as (if not more) important than having a strong CV.

“For me, creating work for myself or friends was a great excuse to practise and experiment, helping me build and present a more diverse portfolio which has come in handy! Secondly, reach out and email brands, companies, bands, whoever you love, telling them about yourself and your work, and why you want to work for them.

“People love it when they can tell you have a passion for their particular brand. ‘You don’t ask, you don’t get’ has been the most consistently useful advice in my life as a designer and musician – so try using it from time to time!”

Former Arts University Plymouth student Andrew Girdler

Cllr Rebecca Smith pictured with Nick Jackson from Plymouth Community Homes

Plymouth scientist takes the plunge for Swimathon

A Plymouth scientist is taking the plunge for his seventh consecutive Swimathon this year, in memory of one of his students who sadly died from cancer.

Dr David Jenkins, associate professor of Nanomaterials and Devices at the University of Plymouth, will swim five kilometres on May 14 at Plympton Pool to raise money for Cancer Research UK and the end of life charity Marie Curie. He is urging others to make a splash too by taking part in the world’s largest annual fundraising swim for the two much-loved causes. Swimathon takes place from May 12 to 14 at pools and venues across Devon and the UKincluding pools in Plymouth.

David, who is 62 and lives in Hooe, explained: “As someone who works in early detection, I know how important it is to spot the signs and symptoms of cancer early, but research needs to be funded and I am glad to do my part in raising awareness and funds for cancer research.

“I have researched various fields of cancer, including pancreatic and early onset gliomas, and understanding more about these diseases, such as lifestyle markers and using technology to spot the signs early, is important.

“One of my students, Ms Suad Al-Soeh, sadly died in her 30s from leukaemia. It was hoped she would have a bone marrow transplant but she died alone in hospital not long after her diagnosis.

“We all know someone with cancer or has been

through the disease, but funding is important for both Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie, in order to keep people living longer and with kinder treatment options.”

With a variety of distances available - from 400m up to 30.9k - the sponsored event offers a challenge for swimmers young and old, new and experienced.

People can participate individually or as part of a team. Any swimmers who can’t make one of the organised sessions can sign up to MySwimathon, which takes place from April 28 to May 21, and choose a time and venue that suits them.

David swims three times a week and enjoys the time he gets to practice his front crawl. He is hopeful that covering 200 lengths will take him around two hours and 20 minutes.

He added: “I enjoy the concentration that swimming allows me, it is just me and the chance to exercise both body and mind and that it’s a great form of exercise. As someone with Aspergers too, the chance to ‘switch my head off’ is glorious and keeps me swimming every week.”

By sharing his story he hopes to inspire people across Devon to get off the starting blocks and help support the charities close to his heart.

David is keen to emphasise that you don’t need to be a super swimmer to take part.

He added: “Swimathon is such a fun and simple way to encourage people to dip their toe in the water and get swimming. It really doesn’t matter

if you’re not the fittest or the fastest. I hope swimmers of all ages and abilities grab their caps and costumes to help thousands of families across the UK.

Swimathon has raised more than £55m for charity since it began in 1986. With rising energy costs putting some community pools at risk of closure, not only does the event support vital causes, £2.50 from the entry fee of everybody taking part at an official Swimathon venue is donated to help protect these pools for the future.

Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Devon, Alison Birkett, said: “Whether you supercharge your swim and take on the 30.9k challenge or 5k is more in your lane, with Swimathon there’s a distance to suit everyone. There are also lots of great benefits to taking part, not least the chance to enjoy the water while supporting people like David.

“One in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime, but all of us can support the research that will beat it. From proving the link between smoking and cancer, to laying the foundations for modern radiotherapy our scientists have been at the forefront of cancer research for 120 years. And we’re not stopping now. That’s why we’re urging swimmers to dive in, raise money and help us keep making new discoveries and breakthroughs. Together we will beat cancer.”

Marie Curie’s director of Community Fundraising, Jayne Waterhouse, said: “Swimathon is an iconic

event in the Marie

calendar and one we all look forward to every year. The exciting and inclusive challenge sees thousands of people take the plunge with sponsored swims up and down the country, whilst raising money to help Marie Curie support those affected by terminal illness.”

Sign up for Swimathon 2023 at swimathon.org

Support David’s Swimathon at www.justgiving. com/fundraising/davidjenkins2023

Helping hands needed at charity shop

The UK’s leading vet charity, PDSA, is calling on kind hearted people who want to make a difference in the local community to support its life-saving work by offering a helping hand at its Plympton.

The shop, located at 78 Ridgeway, helps to fund vital veterinary work across PDSA’s 48 Pet Hospitals – including Plymouth Pet Hospital – which cares for thousands of pets every year.

Shop Manager Susan Philp is urgently appealing for locals to volunteer some time at the store. She said: “The success of PDSA charity shops is all down to our amazing team of volunteers.

“We urgently need help from more local people to continue the life-changing work we do every day in our Pet Hospitals.‚

One of more than 100 PDSA shops in the UK, the Plympton team plays a pivotal role in helping to fund the Plymouth Pet

Hospital, which provides a lifeline to local pet owners who would otherwise struggle to afford veterinary treatment if their pet unexpectedly becomes ill or gets injured.

In 2022, the Plymouth Pet Hospital carried out over 16,000 consultations, 10,000 of which were face-to-face. The hospital costs more than £1.4 million a year to run.

“Volunteering for PDSA is not only rewarding, knowing you’ll be helping a brilliant cause, but it is also fun - you’ll get to meet new people and make some

friends along the way in a warm and supportive environment,” added Susan.

“It also looks great on your CV and you’ll receive full training so no previous retail experience is required and we’ll reimburse your travel expenses so you’re not out of pocket.

“If you are an animal-lover who is aged 18 or over and would like to play a part in helping pets in need, we’d love to hear from you!”

There is a network of more than 3,000 devoted PDSA volunteers across the UK who save the charity over £4 million a year by dedicating their time to helping out. Volunteers can choose to spend as much or as little of their spare time to helping out as there is no minimum time commitment.

To find out more please contact Susan on 01752 283932 or pop into the shop. To apply online, please visit the Volunteering with PDSA page.

CHARITY IN ‘BUSTED BOILER’ APPEAL

Local animal charity Gables Dogs & Cats Home have found themselves in a sticky situation after one of their main boilers broke down beyond repair.

The boiler supplies all of the hot water for hand washing facilities, cleaning the animals’ food and water bowls and laundry machines. Hot water is essential to maintain good hygiene levels.

Gables currently has more than 100 unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats in their care, including some very vulnerable young and old. The cost of replacing the commercial boiler is £4,000. Gables is already suffering financially due to the cost of living crisis and their electricity bills have risen from £25,000 to £90,000 per year. They are now looking to their amazing supporters for any financial help they may be able to give.

Ruth Rickard, deputy manager, said: “We know times are hard for everyone at the moment and this breakdown couldn’t have come at a worse time.

“It is such a large amount of money to have to find so we are asking our wonderful supporters to donate just a pound or two so we can reach our goal. It doesn’t have to be a large donation to make a huge difference.”

Gables is a true non-euthanasia charity and believe in giving all their animals the best chance at having a normal life.

To contribute to ‘The Busted Boiler’ campaign call 01752 331602 or www.justgiving.com/campaign/ bustedboiler to donate online.

If Gables is lucky enough to raise more money than is needed it will go towards helping the animals in their care.

Curie

Making a splash: Plymouth Professor David Jenkins is taking part in Swimathon this May to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie

In the article last month I wrote about Easter and the meaning of the festival as it was approaching. You’re probably reading this article after the event having had a little too much chocolate.

I wrote in the last piece about what Easter means to me. The Easter narrative of Jesus’ death on a cross and ultimate resurrection providing humanity with the way back to God and the way to a full life now and forever.

You will no doubt have your own opinion on this. It may be that you believe it as well and are in agreement. It may have been a reminder of a story you once knew as a child but has since lost its significance to you. Or quite simply you may believe it to be nothing more than a story. A myth of some kind which you have little time for.

Whatever your opinion, the reality is it means very little unless it means something to you personally.

The message of Easter and the narrative that it is possible to know God and live life with God present in your life has an impact if we can see it modelled by someone. It makes it more real and opens the possibility that it could be true for ourselves as well. Otherwise it is simply theoretical and seems too abstract to have real meaning.

In my role at Cross Rhythms Plymouth it is

What does it mean to you?

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager

my pleasure to present a show called Life Stories. The show profiles individuals for whom this story is very real and makes all the difference to their everyday lives. The interviews are always very honest and the guests share both the highs and lows of their lives and what their faith means to them.

As much as possible I try to interview local people from here in Plymouth.

Whatever your opinion on Easter I encourage you to listen to one of these Life Stories interviews and see what your opinion is then.

I recently spoke with Rob, a man who grew up in Reading, battled anxiety in school and went on to start a very successful business. Everything seemed perfect but he was not happy and needed drink and drugs daily to live the life he wanted. Believing he would never be happy he spiralled into deep depression until the God of the Easter message became very real to him and has changed his life ever since, bringing him to Whitleigh in Plymouth and a work serving the community there for some time.

Cross Rhythms Plymouth

You can hear his story at www.crplymouth.co.uk/ podcast/rob-fowler-life-stories.

Or maybe you’d prefer to listen to Jackie’s story. One in which she found faith which so changed her it led her on a lifelong journey of forgiveness from someone close who had wronged her in her younger days.

Her desire to forgive and find freedom, as motivated by her connection to God, would provide hope for the person she was forgiving as well as herself. Her story is online at www.crplymouth.co.uk/ podcast/jackie-yates-lifestories.

Then there are Kev and Reuben, a father and son pair who both recognise God as being the most important aspect of their lives. Kev has experienced God with him through relationship breakup and Reuben experiencing God as being the only one who could help him come sober from a drug taking habit that was spiralling out of control.

You can hear them both talk about their stories at www.crplymouth.co.uk/podcast/kevand-reuben-smith-life-stories.

We have so many more stories on the website like that. You can find all of them by visiting the Life Stories page in the Listen Again section of our website or simply be scanning this QR code:

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

Thousands enjoy National Marine Park open weekend

Giant eels and King and Queen Neptune welcomed thousands of people to enjoy a fantastic free weekend at the National Marine Aquarium organised by the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park for the people of Plymouth as a thank you and to celebrate achievements over the past year.

Over 3,700 tickets were distributed to targeted community groups through the Marine Park Rangers and Gateway Hubs: Mount Batten Centre, Mount Edgcumbe, Plymouth Active and the National Marine Aquarium.

A further 2,900 tickets were won via a public ballot, which saw over 9,000 entrants in the lead up to the weekend.

The event was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Sue Dann and Roger Maslin, chief executive of the Ocean Conservation Trust. Guests were treated to a theatrical display led by the Barbican Theatre and lots of marine themed activities including face painting.

Stilt walkers, King and Queen Neptune, presided over their marine kingdom throughout the weekend, whilst visitors were encouraged to watch their favourite aquatic wildlife feast during punctuated feeding times.

Throughout the open weekend, the team behind Plymouth Sound National Marine Park were on hand to gather feedback from visitors as part of the public consultation to inform future plans.

To help promote sustainable travel to the event, Plymouth CityBus provided free bus rides for children with an accompanying fare-paying adult. Although the free service was aimed at those who were lucky enough to secure free tickets, others were able to use

the offer throughout the weekend to visit the wider National Marine Park.

Ahead of the open weekend, the Gateway Hubs – Mount Edgcumbe, National Marine Aquarium, Mount Batten Centre, and Plymouth Active, were each asked to nominate an individual who goes above and beyond at their organisation to become a winner of a golden ticket experience.

Each nominee was rewarded with a golden ticket to experience the snorkel at the aquarium activity at the National Marine Aquarium across the weekend.

Councillor Pat Patel, Cabinet Member for

Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and Sport at Plymouth City Council said: “We are delighted that we could offer so many tickets for free, so that the people of Plymouth could enjoy time together learning about our National Marine Park. It was an exciting weekend for everyone involved.”

Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Tudor Evans, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for the people of Plymouth to play an instrumental part in the next five years of the National Marine Park.”

The Plymouth Sound National Marine Park Horizons Project has been made possible

thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, with £9.5 million funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The open weekend took place during National Lottery Open Week, which provides offers to National Lottery players as a thank you for their support helping to fund good causes.

Dave Simpson

The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Pat Patel, Aquarium staff and National Marine Park volunteers at the start of the open weekend

Golden ticket winners John Baddick and Chris Wright snorkelling

Dial the Experts

Architecture Carpenters

ALLWOOD INSTALLATIONS

Trading Standards approved company

Bespoke joinery • doors • staircases • bars

Box frame windows • counters • PCstations.

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

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

Blinds & Curtains

MALCOLM WILLS CARPENTRY

All aspects of carpentry. Home Improvements, Alterations, Flooring and Doors, Small jobs undertaken. Senior Citizens Rates. Call for an estimate: 07599 888841 or 01752 255154

UK Blinds Plymouth Ltd

We won’t be beaten on price or choice!

Comprehensive Range of Styles & Fabric Free Measuring, Quotation & Fitting Discounts for Multiple Blinds 01752 300923 | 07765 033470 www.ukblindsplymouth.co.uk

The Door Doctor - 24 hr Locksmith

• Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting

• Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs

• Replacement Glass • Free Quotes 30

Tourism’s vital importance to Plymouth

STEVE ELECTRICAL

Fully qualified and insured electrician • Free estimates/no call-out fees • all electrical work considered • Over 25 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business • NICEIC cert

• Rewires • Certification for minor or major work

Very competitive prices/ high quality work. Will beat all other reasonable quotes.

• Call Steve 07894 208842

Garden & Landscaping

SPONSOR ENABLES GARDENERS SHOW TO CONTINUE AMID SPIRALLING COST

Plympton Gardeners Association staged their latest annual Spring Show in Harewood House on 18 March, but it was only made possible due to sponsorship from local businesses.

The show attracted many daffodil exhibits plus some other seasonal blooms and vegetables along with domestic science, photography and junior exhibits. The event was formally opened by Lord Mayor Cllr Sue Dann who was also given a preopening tour of the exhibits by PGA chairman John Gilding.

Sir Gary Streeter MP visited the National Trust’s Saltram estate to show his support for English Tourism Week.

Coordinated by VisitEngland English Tourism Week is an annual celebration of the tourism industry, highlighting its importance to local economies and promoting the innovation, quality and range of products and services on offer to encourage more domestic breaks.

Sir Gary Streeter said: “The Saltram estate is a jewel in the crown for the whole of Plymouth and South West Devon.

“With its combination of a fascinating historic home and acres beautiful woodland and parkland, it is easy to see why Saltram receives in excess of

one million visitors each year. It was good to visit today and hear of the Saltram team’s exciting plans for the future.”

Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth added: “Tourism and the wider visitor economy is hugely important not only to Plymouth but also the wider Devon and SW region. In the city it supports just under 8,000 jobs with 5.2 million visitors annually making an economic impact of over £337 million.

“English Tourism Week is a great opportunity to celebrate our amazing people, heritage, culture and experiences and it is great to be here today showcasing Saltram House with Sir Gary Streeter MP and the National Trust team.”

Show secretary Paul Hutchings told those attending the afternoon prizegiving that the Association’s costs of staging this and the Summer Show have been rapidly rising in recent years and that this year they have only been able to go ahead with both shows due to the generosity of the events’ headline sponsor, Moorland Heating - a Plympton-based business owned by Brendan Wavish - supported by secondary sponsors of the show schedule.

Among those exhibitors picking up accolades in the Spring show were:

Emma Dunne - The Daffodil Trophy, Daffodil Society Bronze Medal for Best Overall Exhibit and PGA Spring Trophy for Best Exhibit In Show; Pam BNovice Spring Trophy for Daffoldils; Debbie SwainPGA Floral Art Trophy; Cllr Natalie Harrison - Spring Baker Cup for Domestic Science and Runner Up in Photography classes; Phil Warren - President’s Cup for Photography; Roy Rogers - PGA Certificate for his winning entry of forced rhubarb; John Gilding/ Lorna Rogers - Runners’ Up Diploma for Daffodils

Noah Penhallurick & Isobella Hensman - Joint winners of the children’s colouring competition.

Noah was also praised by the judges for his balloon themed cupcake buns with the judge commenting: “I really love this idea, it is perfect for a birthday party! They are so colourful and fun.”

The Plympton Gardeners Association was founded in 1948 to promote gardening and to assist members in improving their gardening skills. The Association is currently affiliated to the Royal Horticultural Society, the National Vegetable Society, the Daffodil Society and the Dahlia Society. They hold meetings on the first Thursday of each month in Harewood House at 7.30pm and prospective new members are welcome to attend for a taster session.

Their next meeting will be on May 4 when George Kestell will be giving a talk called ‘A Bucket Full of Colour.’ Their Summer Show will be held on August 19. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Tourism boost: pictured from left Jez McDermott from Saltram, Cllr Rebecca Smith, Sir Gary Streeter MP, Lydia Rys from Saltram and Amanda Lumley from Destination Plymouth

LES PIKE

repair specialist • Concrete tiles • Natural slate • Lead valleys • Flashings

All building & construction work undertaken. 45 Years experience in the building industry. Tel: 01752 787708 Mob: 07977949898

Removals

J&S RUBBISH REMOVALS

A. PRITCHARD PLUMBING & HEATING

Gas Safe Registered Boiler Changes • Central Heating Systems All Plumbing Work • All Work Guaranteed Mob 07968 949558

MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • • No job too small • 24 hour emergency call out • VAILLANT approved installer Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429

KSR Licensed Disposal REMOVAL OF WASTE

Cheap rates for OAPs, For a FREE Estimate, CALL Kevin: 07810 450940

Top

/ Waste

Clean Our Patch founders celebrate the fifth anniversary of community service

Clean Our Patch founders El Clarke and Ash Samuels have had good reason to celebrate in recent weeks.

In March they celebrated the fifth anniversary of their community interest company with their annual awards ceremony and that was just a few weeks after they had been invited to London by Keep Britain Tidy to attend the launch of the 2023 Great British Spring Clean campaign at the House of Commons.

During their visit Plymouth MP Luke Pollard gave the pair a tour of the House of Commons.

Speaking about the fifth anniversary El said: “Reflecting on how far we’ve come in the last five years is quite amazing. We have had and still have the privilege of working and collaborating with so many amazing people, groups and organisations that there are too many

to mention - however, you all know who you are.

“We have educated thousands of children and possibly adultshopefully teaching ways to manage waste and challenge littering in a safe way.

Ash added: “We are truly honoured to know and work with each and everybody who picks with Clean Our Patch.”

The annual awards included the following:

Young Volunteer of the YearJoshua Birch; Teen Volunteer of the Year - Lee Allchurch; Hardcore Litter Picker of the Year - Alexandra Armstrong; Community Impact Awards - the Cattedown Team and Leigh Mainstone and Estover Team; Team of the Year - Annemarie and Douglas Kerr of the Ham Team; Community Engagement AwardSue Brain; Volunteers of the Year

- Sally Matthews and Lee Tierney; Outstanding Individual Achievement

- Madeleine Shaw from Plympton. Andy McNeill, Clean Our Patch’s Ambassador for Murley who is being treated for terminal brain cancer has chosen the Brain Tumour Charity as the charity which Clean Our Patch will support in 2023.

El said: “He is a truly amazing human so please keep an eye out for upcoming fundraisers as we want to raise as much as we can this year.”

Ash added:”We also want to say a massive thank you to Helping Hands Environmental Litter Pickers - the people who create the pickers we all know and love - for sponsoring the annual awards event.

“Thank you to everyone who was able to join us and to everyone who supports us with the litter mission. This is only possible with the help of each and every one of you.”

T.CLARKE BUILDING & ROOFING PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

All jobs done whether big or small Trading standards approved and Buy With Confidence Member Tel: 01752 267507 - Mob: 07967150441 tclarkebuilders@outlook.com

Our qualified engineers can supply, service and repair all makes of mobility scooters, stairlifts, and home lifts. Please call Best Mobility for a sensible quote. www.bestmobilityplymouth.com bestmobilityplymouth@yahoo.com 0800 2851956 · 07974377582

El Clarke and Ash Samuels pictured at the launch of the Great British Spring Clean in London

Coronation on big screen in the Barbican

Plymouth residents are being invited to come together to watch the King’s Coronation ceremony and concert in May.

The events are to be shown on a big screen in the Barbican so people can enjoy the historic occasion with others, thanks to help with the screening costs from the Department of Culture Media and Sports and the UK Government.

Following ‘The King’s Procession’ from Buckingham Palace on Saturday May 6, the Coronation of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey.

The procession and service will be shown on a big screen on The Parade, which has proven to be a popular location for live events.

On Coronation day there will be a party atmosphere on Quay Square and Southside Street (which will be closed), with charity stalls and stands, roving entertainment, children’s activities and a street party zone with tables and chairs for people to share food and picnics.

The stage on The Parade will see community performances and live acts wrapped around the screening of the coronation events.

On Sunday May 7 there will be entertainment on the stage, with live bands from midday until the live screening of the Coronation Concert taking place at Windsor Castle.

The following weekend the City Council will team up with Plymouth Pride CIC to stage a free screening of the Eurovision Song Contest finals at the Guildhall.

More information on King’s Coronation events in Plymouth can be found at www.visitplymouth.co.uk/coronation

New cameras to crack down on fly- tipping

Fly-tipping in service lanes is set to be targeted by the introduction of new mobile cameras.

A number of city service lanes have long been blighted by environmental criminals and while Plymouth City Council is able to investigate each case of fly-tipping, often the perpetrators are not found.

Now, though, thanks to a successful funding through to DEFRA’s Fly-Tipping Intervention Grant, new equipment will be available to help with keeping the streets clean.

Not only will the cameras deter fly-tipping in the first place but they will also help catch the criminals red-handed.

While the council already owns and operates a number of mobile cameras, this funding will go towards five new cameras which will be deployed to hot spot areas.

Fly-tipping carries a fixed penalty notice charge of £400 which if not paid often results in a summons to court and a much higher fine.

In the first two months of 2023, nearly 50 penalties were given out for littering in back lanes while a further 13 were issued for flytipping.

Councillor Bill Wakeham, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Street Scene, said: “Residents with rear service lanes have for too long had to put up with fly-tippers.

“They’ve had enough and we’ve had enough so I’m delighted that this grant will help us to deter fly-tipping in the first instance but also ensure that the small minority who do not take responsibility for their waste are suitable punished.”

Freedom of the City for sporting heroes

Two Plymouth sporting heroes have been recognised for their commitment to sport at a special meeting of Plymouth City Council – awarding them Freedom of the City.

Endurance swimmer, Lewis Pugh OIG, and English cricketer, Heather Knight OBE, have been awarded Honorary Freedom of the City, the highest honour the city can bestow.

It is awarded to ‘persons of distinction’ who have shown exceptional service or achievement. It recognises those who have provided ‘eminent services’ to Plymouth and gone the extra mile to enhance the city’s reputation or improve the lives of people less able to help themselves.

Lewis Pugh, who was born in Plymouth, is an endurance swimmer and ocean advocate.

Dubbed the ‘Sir Edmund Hillary of swimming’, he is the first person to complete a long-distance swim in every ocean of the world, and he frequently swims in vulnerable ecosystems to draw attention to their plight.

He is best known for undertaking the first swim across the North Pole in 2007, to highlight the melting of sea ice in the Arctic. In 2013 he was appointed as the UN Patrol of the Oceans. Lewis is also the first

Ambassador for Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, actively encouraging the public to take an

active interest in our oceans.

Heather Knight is the captain of the England women’s cricket team and won the World Cup in 2019. She attended Plymstock School and played club cricket for Plymstock Cricket Club, attending training sessions when she was just eight years old.

Councillor Sue Dann, Lord Mayor of Plymouth, said: “Plymouth has been supporting and cheering on Lewis and Heather for a number of years. Lewis not only has an incredible record of sporting achievement, but

we are proud that he is the first Ambassador for our National Marine Park.

“He is a strong advocate for our great city, working to make sure we are doing the right thing to help protect the marine environment to ensure the good health and wellbeing of those who use the National Marine Park and for the ecosystems within Plymouth Sound. He is immensely proud of our rich maritime heritage and campaigns for it to be protected.

“Heather is also a phenomenal role model for sporting excellence. She is an incredible talent and captivated the nation when she led the England women’s cricket team to their fabulous World Cup win in 2017. She strives to raise the profile of women in sport – inspiring a new generation of female athletes who want to follow in her footsteps.

“By awarding both of them the Freedom of the City honour, it is Plymouth’s way of showing them just how proud we all are.”

Lewis Pugh said:“I am so fortunate to have spent some of my formative years growing up in Plymouth. It was a crucial part of my journey to becoming an endurance swimmer and ocean advocate. Thank you, Plymouth, for helping shape me into who I am today.”

Smiles all round for dental improvement programme

Children across Plymouth are receiving tooth brushing lessons and oral health packs to help them keep their mouths healthy, thanks to funding from Plymouth councillors.

The ‘Open Wide Step Inside’ programme, run by Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC, is available to all Year 2 pupils in Plymouth primary schools.

As part of the programme schoolchildren enjoy a 45-minute interactive session in school where they learn how to take care of their teeth and maintain healthy mouths with the help of an animated film.

Councillors from nearly every ward in the city contributed funds from their community grant allocation to ensure that every child that takes part in the programme this year is given an oral health pack to take home. Some councillors were unable to support the programme as their community grants had already been committed to other projects, so the additional funding required

is being provided by Plymouth City Council’s Child Poverty Cabinet Advisory Group.

The oral health packs include a toothbrush, toothpaste, timer, sticker and storybook, giving children all the tools they need to put their learning into practice and help protect their teeth.

A key priority in Plymouth’s Child Poverty Action Plan for 2022 to 2025 is to continue the oral health improvement programme for children. This scheme has helped 1,610 children so far this school year, with the potential to support up to 2,500 in total.

Councillor Rebecca Smith, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Homes and Communities and Chair of the Child Poverty Cabinet Advisory Group, said: “Taking good care of our teeth is vital to help prevent dental issues – and other wider health problems - in the future, so these sessions offer an incredibly important life lesson and will be especially useful to children who may have missed routine dental appointments during the pandemic.

“I would like to express my thanks to my 43 fellow councillors who have generously supported this programme with their community grants in order to help hundreds of children across Plymouth look after their teeth.”

Karen Burn, oral health educator and Dental Outreach Team lead for Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise said “Being able to offer this programme to Plymouth primary schools is a privilege. Teaching oral health education to primary age children is the key to reducing the number of children being admitted into hospital to have teeth removed under general anaesthetic.

“Having the support of the Plymouth City Councillors has made this programme more impactful meaning every school who takes up the offer is contributing to better oral health for our children.”

For further information about the programme please contact dentaloutreach@plymouth.ac.uk

TOP YOUNG DANCE COMPANY IS COMING TO PLYMOUTH

The National Youth Dance Company’s 10th anniversary tour is visiting Plymouth this summer.

The country’s flagship company for young dancers, which is run by Sadler’s Wells, will visit The House in Plymouth on July 15 with their new work Novacene, choreographed by guest artistic director and Sadler’s Wells associate artist Wayne McGregor.

During the dancers’ time with NYDC, they are offered a unique insight into the dance profession, living and working closely together as a company, alongside staff and the artistic team.

The year-long experience within the company provides members with the

necessary skills and techniques to find career opportunities and raise aspirations, self-esteem and confidence. The dancers are mentored during four intensive residencies in school holidays to create and rehearse the new piece. With 35 dancers, aged between 16 and 24 years old, hailing from 19 towns, cities and villages across England it’s a nationwide company.

Over the last 10 years NYDC has worked with over 6,000 young people through workshops and projects across the country. Over 300 young people have joined the company, creating 10 full length dance productions by internationally renowned choreographers. For more information visit www.nydc.co.uk

Heather Knight

Lewis Pugh pictured with Lord Mayor Cllr Sue Dann

Celebrating the success of over 500 young people helped by Skills Launchpad Plymouth

Two years into delivery, the team behind Skills Launchpad Plymouth, the city’s onestop-shop for skills, training, education, careers and jobs, held a celebration event to mark the impact of the first Youth Hub Plymouth contract.

This successful and innovative collaboration, led by Plymouth City Council in alignment with Department for Work and Pensions, established a brand new service through the Youth Hub to offer targeted support for young people aged 16-24 years, including those with additional needs.

The celebration event was hosted within Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s physical home at Barclays Plymouth, where the team acknowledged the young people engaging as members of the Youth Hub who have shone for their resilience and determination, as well as celebrating key individuals from the city-wide partnership who champion support for young people.

Reflecting on what has been achieved during the initial two year contract, Jo Lacy, Skills Launchpad manager said: “The Youth Hub is a core offer for the Skills Launchpad Plymouth service, supporting 16 to 24-year-olds to access local opportunities, whatever their circumstances. Our work is made possible by an amazing city-wide partnership, co-investment by DWP and support from Barclays Plymouth, and at this stage in our journey we are celebrating that we have engaged with 541 young people, with 74 per cent of them moving into a positive outcome.

“Our Youth Hub coordinator, Rhianne, is dedicated to providing tailored one to one support for every young person who becomes a member with us, and through ‘joining the dots’, we now see impressive outcomes in transitions, including 261 young people going into employment, 208 into training and education, and 288 into preemployability or mental health support.

“Of these successes, we are delighted to note that a large proportion of these young people taking their next steps are care experienced, young adult carers, young parents, have special

educational needs or disabilities, or have experience of the youth justice system.

“Over the past two years, we continued to expand our offer, hosting events and workshops ranging from recruitment events to CV sessions, weekly job shops and more. We’re excited to confirm that we will be continuing to offer support to young people, particularly those who are more vulnerable, as funding from the DWP is supporting a Youth Hub 2 contract.”

Lynne McBain, Plymouth Partnership manager at Department for Work and Pensions said: “We are delighted to have worked with Plymouth City Council to deliver the Plymouth Youth Hub for the past two years, supporting young people aged 1624 with skills, training, education, careers and jobs.

“Having DWP work coaches working alongside the Youth Hub Coordinator and key city stakeholders across Plymouth means we can offer comprehensive services and tailored experiences, tapping into the support and knowledge available to support our customers.

“The relaxed Youth Hub environment really works well for our customers, especially those who feel nervous about attending appointments, and we have achieved some great outcomes supporting our customers into work.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the launch of Youth Hub 2 in April 2023.”

During the celebration, Youth Hub Plymouth members were acknowledged for determination, ambition, progression, resilience and altruism. Congratulations went to Aden Webb, Amy Moth Hughes, Tiegan Ross, Leah Dickinson-Black and Elizabeth Macilraith.

Praise was also given to DWP work coaches, the Prince’s Trust and Care Journeys, for their significant contributions.

Anyone looking for support in the city can access the services of Skills Launchpad Plymouth for free, either via access to the resources on the website at www.skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk or by signing up to become a member to access one to one support.

HUNDREDS OF HOMES SET FOR ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS

A vast swathe of social housing in Plymouth will receive significant energy improvements after Plymouth City Council was successful in bidding for a government grant.

In all, 725 homes across the city will benefit from more than £7 million of investment from the latest wave of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF). The award is part of £778m of funding across England to ensure thousands of social homes are upgraded to reach an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C-Rating.

Properties will benefit from a range of measures including external wall insulation, cavity insulation and double glazing. Selected properties will also see solar panels and air source heat pumps fitted. These improvements are anticipated to make meaningful contributions towards reducing energy costs, strengthening Plymouth’s green economy, improving housing quality, regenerating some of our most deprived neighbourhoods, and helping Plymouth reach net zero by 2030.

Building on good work the consortium approach which is currently delivering improvements to 83 homes as part of Wave 1 of SHDF, the Plymouth City Council will once again join forces with Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) and LiveWest to deliver these works.

The council will administer the funds whilst PCH

and LiveWest will be responsible for delivery of the work to the homes they own and manage in the city, match-funding the grants from their own funds.

PCH is the largest social housing association in Plymouth with 16,000 homes, and will receive £5.6 million in grant funding and contribute a further £8.6 million to ensure 600 of its homes across Plymouth benefit from energy upgrades over the next two years.

LiveWest meanwhile, will retrofit 125 homes, receive £1.5 million and contribute a further £1.8 million from their own funds.

It means that between government funding and the money contributed from PCH and LiveWest, over £17.4 million will be committed to the project.

Cllr Rebecca Smith, Cabinet Member for Homes and Communities, said: “Upgrading these homes to the best energy efficiency will mean to such to so many people and so I’m grateful for the funding we’ve managed to obtain.

“Once again, though, partnership working with friends and colleagues at PCH and LiveWest has been key and helped delivered positive change for the people of Plymouth.”

Cllr James Stoneman, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Governance added: “This announcement is warmly welcomed. A key action of our Climate Emergency Action Plan is to scale

up the delivery of projects that reduce emissions, including retrofits to our housing stock.Buildings are one of our largest contributors of carbon emissions and therefore this funding will be key to helping the council reach its 2030 net zero target.”

John Clark, chief executive of Plymouth Community Homes, said: “It’s fantastic news we have secured £5.6m of funding which we will match-fund ourselves. This will help us to make 600 of our social homes in Plymouth more energy efficient, which will in turn help our tenants to reduce their energy bills and keep their homes warm, dry and comfortable, as well as reducing carbon emissions.

Suzanne Brown, executive director of Operations for LiveWest, said: “This funding will enable us continue working with our consortium partners and expand on our valuable SHDF Wave 1 investment in neighbourhoods such as Barne Barton, where Wave 1 delivery is well underway.

“Over the next two years The SHDF, alongside our own LiveWest investment, will help us undertake a range of building improvement works to a further 125 homes across Plymouth.

“Not only will this investment benefit our customer’s with more efficient homes, but we welcome the opportunity to continue to work with our partners to progress the growth of Green Skills in Plymouth and across the region as a whole.”

Helplines

Ypoung people and Skills Launchpad Plymouth representatives celebrate their success

All set for Armed Forces Day

Plymouth’s spectacular Armed Forces Day returns to Plymouth Hoe this summer with an epic programme of events, activities and entertainment.

The exciting line-up was revealed at a launch event marking 100 days until Armed Forces Day on June 24. It will include music, pageantry, fly pasts, exciting service displays, service charities and fun for all the family. The launch was hosted by 29 Commando Regiment RA at the Royal Citadel.

Lieutenant Colonel Kieran Phillips, Royal Artillery Commanding Officer, presented the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Sue Dann, with the Armed Forces Day flag. Members from Babcock, Plymouth City Council and representatives from each Military Service, veterans, cadets and Military Kids Club Heroes also attended.

The launch saw members of 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery abseil down the walls of The Royal Citadel, carrying the Armed Forces Day flag and title sponsors Babcock’s flag.

Lord Mayor, Councillor Sue Dann, jumped at the opportunity to bravely abseil down the 70ft high Citadel wall.

The flags were passed to the 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines, who flew them from their Offshore Raiding Craft (ORCs) in a thrilling on-water display. The ORCs travelled at high speed in an arrowhead formation across Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

Plymouth Armed Forces Day is a celebration and a chance to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, which is expected to see over 40,000 people will flock to Plymouth Hoe, to enjoy the family-fun event.

This year’s line-up will see audiences wowed by the all-day arena and stage programme, interactive displays, military vehicles and equipment, demonstrations and parades. There will also be a flyover of iconic aircraft over Plymouth Sound before heading on to Cornwall who are hosting the national celebration this year.

Councillor Pat Patel, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport at Plymouth City Council, said: “Armed Forces Day is not only a brilliant day out, filled with fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, but also a hugely important opportunity for the people of Plymouth to show support to our Military, reservists, veterans, cadets and their

families, thanking them for the great work they do.

“It is also great to see the spotlight on the Southwest this year, when celebrating this significant day; with the national event being hosted in Falmouth. It brings a great opportunity for our communities to come together to celebrate and show our continued support to our Armed Forces.”

Lt Col Kieran Phillips said: “I’m delighted that we can launch this year’s Plymouth Armed Forces Day with the magnificent Royal Citadel as our backdrop – this has been home to Gunners for over 300 years and to the Commando Gunners for the last 60. It is a great opportunity for us to continue to play our part in the Plymouth community that means so much to.

“This Plymouth Armed Forces Day will be just as spectacular as those that have gone before; and is a brilliant annual moment for us, our families and our veterans to come together with our wider Plymouth family.”

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

The June edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Plympton and Plymstock will be published on May 12 with a copy deadline of April 24. The Plympton and Plymstock edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

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

We welcome submissions, but cannot guarantee publication. We accept press releases in the form of text documents and images in JPG or TIFF format (high resolution please).

The views expressed in the Plymouth Chronicle are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this publication. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the publication.

Lord Mayor Cllr Sue Dann pictured with officials and military representatives

Lord Mayor Cllr Sue Dann bravely abseiled down the Citadel wall