‘KINDERGARTEN’ OPENS FOR ORPHANED
KITTENS AT PLYMOUTH SANCTUARY
A ‘kitten kindergarten’ has been set up at a Plymouth charity to hand-rear days old kittens tragically orphaned in a road accident.
The three kittens were just a day old when they were rescued by Woodside Animal Welfare Sanctuary after being found by a road in Saltash with their deceased mum and sibling.
With their lives hanging in the balance, Woodside’s assistant supervisor Kirstin Stone set up an after-hours ‘kitten kindergarten’ at the Elfordleigh sanctuary to provide the specialist training needed to nurture the new arrivals.
A group of staff has volunteered to stay behind after work for specialist training in hand-feeding, temperature regulation, toileting and general healthcare - and lots of cuddles!
Overnight, the kittens, who they have named Flynn, Bug and Karen, are being taken home by the staff for ‘sleepovers,’ to ensure they have the very best care around the clock.
Kirstin said the kittens were doing well but, at only two weeks old, are still vulnerable and will need weeks of extra care before they can hopefully be rehomed.
“We have always provided training, but this is the first time we’ve started a ‘kitten kindergarten’,” she said. “The staff asked to be trained and they are happy to stay after work.
“At this age, the kittens need to be fed every two hours with a small syringe. They have to be fed
in a certain position and you have to be careful that they do not drink too fast because there is a risk that the milk can go onto their lungs and drown them. They need toileting and, until they are around three weeks old, they cannot control their own body temperature, so they need a heat pad.
“Kittens are blind and deaf when born. They have only just opened their ears. They are learning to walk and are bumbling around now.”
For Kirstin, the young trio take the number of kittens she has handreared at the sanctuary to 39. They are currently among 17 kittens being cared for by Woodside.
“I really like looking after animals that need help and need a bit of extra care,” she said. “It is a real commitment. They end up coming with you everywhere. I take them with me to see my friends and parents.
“They are doing well, however it’s early days and they are not out of the woods yet. The training is going well and I am noticing staff’s individual talents. One of them is really good at encouraging the kittens to settle and go to sleep, one seems to be able to get them to go toilet.
“Seeing the kittens growing up and knowing I’ve played a part is rewarding. I still get to see some of the cats that I hand-reared as kittens.”
For more information about the work of Woodside visit www. woodsidesanctuary.org.uk/
New plan to tackle poverty in Plymouth
A new city-wide approach to addressing poverty and raising the living standards of people in Plymouth is set to be agreed by councillors.
Building Bridges to Opportunity is a new programme that will focus on three areas. It provides a framework to review city plans, strategies and services to ensure that Plymouth is an environment where people:
• Don’t fall into poverty
• Experience less harm from poverty
• Can lift themselves out of poverty.
Building on the Child Poverty Action Plan 2022-25, the programme will ensure there is a wider focus on poverty, affecting Plymouth residents of all ages.
As part of the programme, a new Councillor Champion will also be appointed to help ensure ongoing cross-council commitment.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “We responded to the cost-of-living crisis immediately and have been working hard to support our residents as they’ve faced rising costs for energy, food and housing.
“However, it is clear that we now need to take a longer-term approach to tackle the root causes of poverty and ensure that people are empowered to lift themselves out of poverty.
“This new framework sets out how we will work across the council and together with key city partners to map out existing initiatives and assess how well they are working to support residents, while identifying any gaps in services or potential problems that could exacerbate the issues residents face.”
Departing Sat 30 Nov ‘24 Enjoy
stalls, there is plenty to take in to get you into the festive spirit.
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
Overnight stay at a selected hotel (JG3 or JG4 rating) with breakfast
Visit to Bath Christmas Market
En-route visit to a place of interest
Departing Fri 15 Nov ‘24
The Edwardian harbour town of Folkestone and the classic backdrop of Canterbury provide the whimsical settings for a festive breakaway to Canterbury Christmas Market, full of delightful treats to kick off your Christmas season.
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone (JG2 rating) with dinner & breakfast
2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks
Entertainment every evening
Free time in Folkestone
Excursions to Sandwich & Canterbury
▶ SAVE £20 - Quote PLY - Book by 11 Oct 2024
Departing Fri 22 Nov ‘24
The Thursford Christmas Spectacular is the biggest Christmas show of its kind in Europe! Set in a lavishly decorated auditorium, this celebration of the festive season delivers an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, dazzling costumes, music and variety.
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
3 nights at the Warner Corton Coastal Village, Lowestoft with dinner & breakfast
Entertainment every evening
Entrance to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular
Excursion to Norwich
Parents emotional appeal for help as three-year-old Clara battles cancer
A Plymouth couple have had to endure the worst possible nightmare after their threeyear-old daughter was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer that could leave her unable to walk or use her arms again.
Three-year-old Clara Gilley had celebrated her birthday on March 29 this year, but two days later she became unwell and was unable to move her arms or legs.
Her worried parents, Alana and Matt Gilley, called an ambulance and she was rushed to Derriford Hospital where she had an urgent CT scan followed by an MRI. To their horror Clara suffered a cardiac arrest while undergoing the MRI and it was an agonising three minutes before she was resuscitated.
The scans revealed a tumour around her neck and spine. The following day, April 1, Clara was transferred to Bristol Children’s Hospital - where she has remained ever since. Two weeks after arriving at Bristol she was diagnosed with a Ewing Sarcoma which was pressing on her spine and caused her to lose all use of her limbs.
Clara, who is described by her mum as feisty, kind and brave, underwent life saving surgery to remove the mass from her back and since then has been totally dependent on a ventilator to breathe.
She has undergone extensive chemotherapy treatment and is shortly due to start a long period of radiotherapy. Her condition is so serious that Clara has spent a significant amount of her time in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.
Alana and Matt have now spent more than six months in Bristol visiting Clara in hospital every day from early morning to late at night, with occasional respite when family and friends give them a break from being at her bedside.
They have now launched a £100,000 Crowdfunder appeal to raise funds to enable
their home to be adapted so that Clara can come home to Plymouth when she is well enough.
Alana, who is a qualified teacher, said:
“It has been a bumpy road with various infections as her immune system gets wiped out each time she has chemotherapy and then rebuilds itself, most recently ending up back in intensive care as a chest infection had impacted her breathing and she needed to be moved from her normal home ventilator to the ICU machines.
“We have recently found out that there is a part of her spinal cord that has been compressed so much that it has not recovered. It is, therefore, unlikely that she will ever be able to walk or move her arms again.
“Clara has been incredible through the whole experience. She’s undergone multiple surgeries including having her Hickman line inserted in her chest and more recently removed, having her tracheostomy procedure and her initial tumour removal.
“There have been times where it has been touch and go and despite all of this Clara has continued to smile and be her funny, sweet self. She is the strongest and most resilient person and she deserves to be given the chance to live a fulfilled life.
“Clara will not be able to be discharged from hospital until we have a suitable property for her to move to.”
Matt, who is a professional photographer added: “With all this in mind, our current housing situation is very much up in the air. It is looking likely that there is not a lot that we can do with our current home in Plympton to make it fully accessible to Clara and so we would need to move to a different property that allows her to move freely around all parts of the house or has the potential to be adapted to be fully accessible.
“It is really important to us that no part of the house is unaccessible to Clara to help enable her to have a childhood like other children her age.
“Unfortunately, we will not be able to get
a mortgage to borrow what we’d need to buy something suitable for all of us as a family and so we are very kindly asking for any help that will allow us to get Clara home.
“We really appreciate the kindness and generosity we have received so far and anything that you can donate to us to get Clara home would be graciously welcome.”
The Crowdfunder appeal has raised more than £20,000 since it was launched on September 1, so there is still a long way to go.
To support the fund to get Clara home go to www.crowdfunder. co.uk/p/get-clara-home#start
Clara’s favourite characters Wallace and Gromit visited her in hospital. She is pictured with them and her mum and dad
A happy Clara in her ballet outfit pictured just a few days before she was taken ill
Brave Clara has kept a smile on her face despite enduring extensive treatment for cancer
Photos: FPS Images
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.
Gospel Choir Concert
Oct 12
Featuring Callington Community Gospel choir and Mark Jenner on the organ at Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 7pm. Free entry with collection for Children’s Hospice South West and church organ fund. Go along for an uplifting fun evening. Listen, clap, sing and just enjoy.
Model Show
Oct 12
Harewood House, Plympton from 10am hosted by City of Plymouth Model Boat Club. Opened by Stannator of Plympton. All profits to Children’s Hospice SW. Admission £3, U14 £1. Boats, trucks, Lego, 3D models, helicopters and other RC models. Refreshments.
Singing Day
Oct 12
Organised by Plymouth Philharmonic Choir at the Woolwell Community Centre from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Featuring complete vocal scores of The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace with Nicholas Banks. Cost is £23 which includes the loan of the score. A light lunch is available for £7. Further details from Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s Facebook page, from Sarah Potter (07816 230173) or email plymphilchoirworkshops@gmail.com. Online booking at wegottickets.com/event/621228
Tour de Moor
Oct 13
St Luke’s Hospice’s popular fundraiser returns in October. With three distances and difficulty levels to choose from, it’s the ultimate inclusive family friendly cycling adventure. For more information or to register visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tour-de-moor
The Chamber Ensemble of London
Oct 13
Back by popular demand the Ensemble present works by Handel, Marcello, Monteverdi, Vivaldi and Bach at Stoke Damerel Church from 4pm to 6pm. Visit www. plymouthconcerts.com for more details.
Collectors Toy Fair
Oct 20
Organised by Plymouth Diecast Club at the Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth from 10am to 1pm. Adults £1. Accompanied children Free. Cafe, and free parking. Details www.plymouthdiecastclub.com.
Historic Building Myth-busting
Oct 22
Buildings archaeologist Dr James Wright comes to the Guildhall in Plympton St Maurice to speak about his new book Historic Building Myths. His fascinating talk will explore the myths and legends behind the architecture of a range of historic buildings and uncover that the reality behind the stories is often even more interesting, romantic, and exciting than the myth itself. Doors and fully licensed bar open from 7pm; talk 7.30pm, followed by Q&A and book signing. For tickets go to www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for Dr James Wright
Halloween Party
Oct 26
Woolwell Centre from 5pm to 10pm with DJ, crafts, games, fancy dress competition, bouncy castle, soft play area and tuck shop. Bar and refreshments available. Tickets £5 adults, £3 children. For information call 01752 695888.
Out and About
Your guide to events in the local community and beyond
Plymouth Oktoberfest
Oct 26
The popular event returns to Central Park with two sessions from 12 noon to 5pm and from 6pm to 11pm. Every year has been a sell-out since it was first launched and tickets are sure to be in big demand. As usual the event will feature oompah bands, bier steins, gourmet bratwurst, party games, singalongs, Ocktoberfest dress ups, lederhosen hosts and much more. For tickets and further information visit www. oktoberfestplymouth.co.uk
Halloween Pumpkin Lantern Trail and Bat Walk
Oct 26
The Radford Park Community Project will be hosting a Halloween fun event in Radford Park, starting at the Beckly Centre, Mayers Way, PL9 9DF from 4pm to 6pm. More details will be posted online nearer the date of the event.
Civil War Talk
Oct 26
Popular speaker Philip Photiou will be giving a talk on the Civil War at Ford Park Cemetery. There will be a ploughman’s lunch included in the price of £12 for a ticket. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm where tickets can be purchased by calling 01752 665442. Philip is a popular speaker and his talks are often a sell-out.
Coffee Morning
Nov 2
Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. Proceeds to Fund for Human Need. All welcome.
Bonfire Night
Nov 5
Plymouth Hoe will be lit up with a spectacular Bonfire and Fireworks display. More details coming soon.
City Centre Christmas Lights Switch-On
Nov 14
The Christmas calendar officially kicks off with the switch-on of this year’s spectacular Christmas lights on the Piazza, run by the Plymouth City Centre Company. The festive fun starts at 4pm, with a wonderful programme of entertainment, including singing, dance, plus live music from Joey the Lips, and their 10-piece funk and soul band. Santa will be coming along with special guests, sharing the
Christmas magic and switching on the colourful Christmas lights. The big switch-on moment is due to take place between 6pm and 6.30pm.
Barbican Christmas Lights Switch-on
Nov 16
Join in the wonderful Christmas lights switch-on event with an afternoon of festive family fun with free activities and entertainment from 12pm to 6pm on the Barbican and Sutton Harbour.
John Lydon – I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right
Nov 20
Punk icon John Lydon will perform in Plymouth as a part of his UK tour. The Sex Pistols’ frontman will be at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 7.30pm. Doors open at 6.45pm. Tickets from www. comicalentertainment.com
Sounds of Nature Themed Concert
Nov 23
University of Plymouth Orchestra presents a free children’s concert at 3pm at the Levinsky Hall on the university campus. Evening concert at 7.30pm featuring Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, Tales from the Vienna Woods by Strauss and Barry’s Out of Africa. Admission free but donations welcome. Tickets can be booked via the ‘What’s On’ page of the University of Plymouth website. The evening concert will include a raffle and free refreshments after the performance.
Christmas Fayre
Nov 23
Ford Park Cemetery from 10.30am to 1.30pm. This is always a popular event with many bargains on the various stalls.
Plymouth Christmas Market
Nov 28 to Dec 15
All the festive sites, smells and atmosphere are brought to the city centre, with the wonderful festive log cabins, festooned with Christmas lights, selling a wide range of unique gifts, crafts, clothing and festive treats including delicious food and live music
Just Christmas Fair
Nov 30
A ‘fair’ and charitable event with locally and ethically produced goods for sale at Hope Baptist Church, Peverell Corner from 10am to 3pm. Free entry.
kicks off with the
Refreshments include hot pasties and home made cakes. All welcome.
Dick Whittington
Nov 30 and Dec 1
Sounds Musical Theatre Company present a proper Plymouth pantomime for the whole family, a bespoke version as he follows his fortune to Plymouth. Performances at 1pm and 6pm, on November 30 and December 1 at 1pm at the newly reburbished community hub Oreston Methodist Church Hall. Tickets £13 adults, £10 children. £42 family ticket. Book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/sounds
Christmas Fayre
Nov 30
St Budeaux Methodist Church from 10am to 1pm. Various stalls including a raffle, tombola and cakes. Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and bacon or sausage baps will be available.
Santa Fun Run
Dec 8
Organised by Saltram Rotary Club with the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership. Event covers 5km around the Barbican and Waterfront with proceeds going to Shekinah and Jeremiah’s Journey. Register at www. plymouthsantafunnrun.co.uk
Christmas Concert
Dec 14
Plymouth University Choral Society with local soprano soloist Milly Atkinson will be performing John Rutter’s Magnificat and Shepherd’s Pipe Carol, Bob Chilcott’s On Christmas Night, and other carols including I Saw Three Ships (arr. David Willcocks) St Andrew’s Minster Church 7.30pm. Tickets available from Choral Society members or on the door £16 adults, £6 students
Milton Jones
Dec 14
Fans favourite Milton Jones brings his Ha!Milton tour to the Main Hall at Plymouth University at 7.30pm. Tickets available at www.comicalentertainment.com
Send details of your event to info@cornerstonevision. com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.
The Christmas calendar
switch-on of the City Centre Christmas lights on the Piazza on November 14
Devon & Cornwall Police in Plymouth have put money seized from criminal activity to good use, funding 25 food boxes filled with essentials to give to vulnerable people in need.
A total of £750 was donated to Devon and Cornwall Food Action (DCFA), a charity that works with food producers and supermarkets to redistribute food to those who cannot afford it.
The money will go towards funding boxes containing food items, toiletries and hygiene products. Police officers will be able to access these boxes to give to people who they engage with when on duty.
PC David Brooks said: “Being able to use criminal money for good by reinvesting it into the community is fantastic. These boxes will be vital in providing food and essentials for vulnerable people who are in need and not able to afford it. I hope we can continue to do some good in the community with these boxes.
“I’d also like to say thank you to all the volunteers at DCFA – you are an amazing group of people and it’s inspiring to see the work you do to support some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”
DCFA is striving to eradicate food poverty in Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall. The charity work with a number of services including community organisations and groups.
They distribute produce to people who have been identified as suffering from food poverty, being in desperate need to feed themselves or their families.
Over 80 per cent of the individuals and families the charity supports are in paid employment. There can be many reasons why people are in food poverty, including high property costs, addiction and unexpected illnesses.
To discover more about DCFA, visit www. devonandcornwallfoodaction.org/ Police in Plymouth continue to support groups, projects and charities in the local area with money from the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) fund, which contains funds seized from criminality.
For more information about POCA funding, get in touch with
Vital
funding
boost for key mental health projects in city
Funding has been given to seven projects in Plymouth that are working to support people who may be struggling with their mental health, as part of the city’s approach to suicide prevention.
The innovative projects are working to bring people together, combat loneliness and improve mental health in a range of unique ways, including craft sessions with therapy animals, mountain biking trips and even roleplaying games.
£45,000 of funding from NHS England in partnership with Plymouth City Council, administered by POP, has been given out in grants to a range of organisations with the aim of improving awareness of suicide and suicide prevention, while also supporting and empowering people.
The projects aim to support priority groups who are most at risk of suicide, including children and young people, adult men, people who are neurodivergent and pregnant women and new mothers.
The projects that received funding are:
• Trail Therapy by Bikespace: Regular mountain bike rides to support participants’ physical and mental health
• Diverse Explorations by Manifest, Queer Out Loud, NeuDICE and The Crafts Workshop: A series of creative workshops for young people who are neurodivergent and identify as LGBTQIA+
• First Time Fliers by Developing Natural Arts: Creative community craft sessions for young people, care leavers, students and new parents
• Roleplaying for Resilience by Character Creations: Establishing a network of in-person and online roleplaying games to help people overcome social isolation
• Animal and Art Wellbeing Community Group by Pets and Picasso CIC: A weekly group with therapy animals and arts and craft activities for adults who are neurodiverse
• Chronic Pain Cafes by Chronic Pain Coaching: Providing peer support and giving people the skills to help self-manage chronic pain conditions
• Wellness Workshops for Pregnant Women and New Mums by Pillars of Wellness & Wellbeing: Meditation, breathwork and yoga sessions to increase resilience and promote a regulated nervous system.
World Suicide Prevention Day in September aimed to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations to prevent suicides.
Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Every death by suicide is a tragic loss and has a devastating, far-reaching impact on families, friends and the wider community. We know this can be an uncomfortable and distressing topic, but it’s really important that we end the stigma and work to prevent suicides by having open conversations and creating an environment where people are supported during times of personal crisis.
“We want Plymouth to be a safe and supportive place for everyone and are pleased to be funding these innovative projects that will help people who may be struggling.”
Details of the mental health support available in Plymouth at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ mental-health-support. You can also contact the Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by calling 116 123.
Millbay Docks £23 million investment scheme opens up big economic boost for Plymouth
Strengthening works to the wharf at Millbay Docks have now been completed, helping secure the future of the ferry terminal.
Associated British Ports (ABP) say the works are the first in an investment programme funded by the UK Government as part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport seed capital programme.
The work on West Wharf is a key component of ABP’s ongoing £23m investment in upgrading infrastructure at Millbay, which will strengthen the port’s freight capability, increase its green credentials and make it more accessible for the cruise market.
The project saw the installation of 30 steel tubular piles, enabling the wharf to accommodate 100-tonne cranes. This will allow the port to handle more cargo and to install a passenger boarding bridge for both ferry and cruise passengers.
Additional plans involve refurbishing the passenger terminal building and implementing traffic management measures to reduce processing times for inbound traffic.
Ashley Curnow, ABP’s divisional port manager for Wales and the Southwest said: “We are delighted to be making good progress with
the upgrade works at Millbay Docks, which will facilitate more freight and trade, supporting the wider Plymouth economy.
“These improvements will also enhance the passenger experience for Brittany Ferries customers and open new opportunities for the port’s cruise business, which is going from strength to strength. This improved infrastructure is a testament to ABP’s commitment to driving growth and sustainability at Millbay Docks. We
are grateful to the patience and support of the local community during the works.”
Millbay Docks has been a key hub for Brittany Ferries for over 40 years and includes daily services to Roscoff in France, as well as weekly services to Santander in northern Spain.
Steve Lawrie, Port Operations manager, Brittany Ferries Plymouth said: “The strengthening of the West Wharf and subsequent new boarding bridge will significantly enhance
the experience for our passengers travelling through Plymouth, especially for those travelling on foot. The upgraded facilities align with our goal to provide seamless and enjoyable travel experiences for all our customers.
“This development underscores our long-standing partnership with ABP at Millbay Docks and our shared vision for growth and excellence.”
Richard May, chief executive of Plymouth and South Devon Freeport said: “It’s fantastic to see this project completed through Freeport seed capital funding. This is a key infrastructure upgrade for Millbay Docks which will enable ABP to optimise and grow their port operations, increase ship rotations and consider new routes as part of thePlymouth and South Devon Freeport.”
Plymouth City Council Leader, Tudor Evans said: “This is a huge milestone in ourour mission to increase global trade through our ports. Freeport seed funding has helped strengthen the wharf at Millbay, opening up huge potential for more freight as well as a better welcome for ferry passengers. This work means more ships, more cargo, more business and more growth for Plymouth.”
NEW BENCH INSTALLED THANKS TO RBL
A new bench has been installed at the top of Plympton’s main district shopping centre thanks to the efforts of the Plympton Branch of the Royal British Legion.
The RBL undertook a year of fundraising initiatives to finance the bench, which included one of their members, Dave Ayres, having his dreadlocks chopped off in return for sponsorship donations.
The RBL were assisted in the logistics of the venture by former St Mary’s ward Councillor Natalie Harrison, both during her time on Plymouth City Council and afterwards, in navigating council procedures for getting the bench put in place.
The bench at the top of the shopping part of Ridgeway is now in place for next year’s VE Day 80 commemorations and the branch’s centenary. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
New community support officer at Plympton RBL
Plympton’s Royal British Legion Branch now has a new community support officer.
Royal Navy veteran Craig Taylor has taken up the role and he plans to hold drop ins once a month where people can chat face to face over a cup of coffee, or one to ones can be arranged where this is preferred.
Craig will also offer guidance to enable people to engage with all the help that the RBL has to offer, drawing if necessary upon his own past experiences.
He also hopes to build links within the area to offer activities working alongside other groups and organisations which are active within Plympton.
Craig said: “As a veteran who was once in need myself, I know how important it is to have someone who understands where you have come from and what you might be facing, using language you understand - and who isn’t easily offended by ‘service speak’.”
Craig can be contacted via e-mail at Plympton.BCS@RBL. Community.
(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
Consultation meetings consider new homes plan
Two public consultation meetings, one at Hemerdon and the other at Chaddlewood, have taken place to enable the public to see in greater detail and comment upon proposals for new housing on land next to Stoggy Lane in Plympton.
A total of 500 new houses are proposed on the land which is owned by Plymouth City Council but is geographically situated in the South Hams.
The development could see the closure of West Park Hill to routine traffic to create a ‘green lane,’ with cars diverted onto a new road through the development site.
One of those to attend the consultation was Plympton Councillor Terri Beer. She said: “It’s important to have homes for people but the infrastructure needs to be in place first and foremost.”
In considering the Newnham proposals she was also mindful that 490 new houses are already proposed at Coypool and work has resumed on delivering a development of 49 new homes at Colebrook.
Cllr Beer added: “All sewage will go to Plympton Treatment Works which already takes sewage from Sherford and part of Moor View. There’s congestion on our roads that already suffer damage due to heavy lorries and it’s Plymouth that pays for repairs.
“Doctors are already struggling with patients and appointments are hard to get
and some residents have to wait weeks for a phone call. Pharmacies are already struggling and often queues out the doors.”
Chaddlewood Green Councillor Ian Poyser also went along to one of the consultations. He referred to there being: “Lots of questions about the type of housing suitable for this location, provisions for nature, supporting infrastructure such as schools, doctors,
community assets, sewage treatment capacity, connectivity such as bus services, walking and cycling, concerns about road safety and traffic.”
Cllr Poyser added: “There are a broad range of views from the public about this proposal. At this stage comments are not logged as objections or support for the development, these must be submitted following the
elburton dental
Independent private dental practice based in the nearby village of Elburton
touch
submission of the planning application next year.
“Therefore, residents should consider how this outline proposal could be improved, for example, the affordability, type and number of dwellings, nature recovery, sustainable travel and support with local infrastructure, schools, health care, community assets.”
The proposals for the Newnham development can be seen online at www. westparkhillnewnham.co.uk.
The feedback from the consultations will be considered and a formal planning application will be submitted to Devon County Council in 2025.
(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
PLYMPTON LOSES ONE OF ITS THREE POST OFFICES
One of the three Post Offices in Plympton has closed and there are no plans to replace it.
The branch situated in a convenience store in Plymbridge Road opposite the rear entrance to Hele’s School closed on 25 September, much to the disappointment of those living in the vicinity of it.
The branch was officially known as Marsh Mills Post Office, despite being nowhere near Marsh Mills. It inherited that title when the branch transferred there many years ago after the closure of the previous location at the bottom of Woodford Avenue.
A Post Office spokesperson said: “The operator for Marsh Mills Post Office has regrettably resigned. In a very challenging economic climate Post Office has undertaken a comprehensive review of the network at a very detailed, local level, analysing customer demand and accessibility of Post Office products and services.
“Consequently, with finite funding, resources need to be allocated to deliver maximum benefit for all our customers. At this time, therefore, we are not looking to replace Marsh Mills Post Office.”
Those who relied on the branch have lamented its demise. Julie Kinchin said: “The Post Office and the shop will be sorely missed particularly by the considerable number of elderly people in the immediate vicinity. One bus an hour to Ridgeway is useless.”
Another pointed out: “With many now using post offices for banking services too due to branches closing locally it’s more than the loss of a post office.”
The next nearest Post Office is almost a mile away inside the Co-op at Ridgeway with the other situated in the Co-op at the Chaddlewood District Shopping Centre. (story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
John Hockaday
In a report in our September edition regarding the planned Heritage Open Day at Harewood House a photograph was included which referred to John Hockaday as a former headteacher at Plympton Grammar School. Mr Hockaday was in fact a former head boy, not headteacher. We apologise for the error.
HALO HELPING HANDS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP THE AMBULANCE SERVICE IN PLYMOUTH
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) is looking for new volunteers in Plymouth to support their teams at Derriford Hospital.
The ambulance service is currently recruiting for a new volunteering experience, for a ‘HALO Helping Hand’, a unique and rewarding position designed to assist the Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officer (HALO) based at the hospital. The role offers a flexible volunteering opportunity without fixed times, ensuring volunteers can support around other commitments.
HALO Helping Hands volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth transition of patients from the ambulance service to the hospital. This position is key for supporting the operational efficiency of services and directly supports people without needing to be patient-facing.
Responsibilities include engaging with patients, supporting ambulance
crews, and supporting the duty HALO with capturing and inputting data, to the service’s Emergency Operations Centre.
This role offers an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the local community. Volunteers will receive comprehensive training, equipping them with valuable social and administrative skills.
Additionally, this experience provides a chance to meet
new people, learn new skills, and be part of a supportive and dynamic team to ensure an excellent patient experience is delivered.
SWASFT is looking for enthusiastic and committed individuals who are willing to volunteer their time and energy to support this initiative.
While the role does not involve direct clinical care, it requires a compassionate approach and excellent
communication skills to ensure the best possible experience for everyone involved.
The South Western Ambulance Service proudly holds Investing in Volunteers accreditation, demonstrating their ability to provide the UK’s quality standard for volunteer management, through its a well-led, dedicated Volunteering and Community Services Department, which fully
Lord Owens calls time on his political career after 60 years
Plympton-born Lord Owen has announced his retirement from politics at the age of 86 after more than 60 years in the political arena.
He started his political journey in 1960 while at University in London where he joined the Vauxhall branch of the Labour Party.
As Dr David Owen he was elected Member of Parliament for the then Plymouth Sutton constituency from 1966 to 1974 and then for the adjoining Plymouth Devonport constituency from 1974 to 1992.
integrates volunteering within the Trust.
More details about other volunteering opportunities available with the SWASFT can be found at www.swasftjoinus.co.uk/volunteers.
Anyone interested in supporting the new volunteering opportunity, or another opportunity offered, apply through the Trust’s website, www.swasft-joinus. co.uk/vacancies.
As a member of Labour Governments, he served as Navy Minister and Health Minister. In 1977, at the age of 38, he became one of the youngest politicians to take up the role of Foreign Secretary. In 1981 he left the Labour Party and was one of the ‘Gang of Four’ who co-founded the Social Democratic Party. He was SDP leader from 1983-87 and of the continuing SDP from 1988-90. In 1992 he was created a Life Baron, under the title Lord Owen of the City of Plymouth, and elevated to the House of Lords where he sat as an Independent Social Democrat.
In a statement published on his website on September 2, it was announced: “As of today Lord Owen has retired from the House of Lords. Given the new Government’s manifesto commitment to reform the House of Lords both in terms of hereditary Peers and retirement age, Lord Owen at the age of 86 is happy to voluntarily retire believing that the House of Lords is in need of serious reform to become a much more democratic chamber.”
Lord Owen was born in Plympton in 1938 and his father was a local GP in the town.
(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
19 October 202412 January 2025
In partnership with ARTIST ROOMS, Tate and National Galleries of Scotland
Paul RooneyBroken Token
19 October 202412 January 2025
An IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund commission, in partnership with The Box Plymouth Devonport 200
19 October 202412 January 2025
Photo:
The Box delights with exciting autumn exhibitions
New exhibitions at The Box are bringing an exciting combination of historical and contemporary art to the city this autumn.
Land Sea Sky: Ingrid Pollard, JMW Turner & Vija Celmins (October 19 to January 12 2025) has been developed in partnership with ARTIST ROOMS, Tate and National Galleries of Scotland. This major exhibition brings
together three artists who, although working more than 200 years apart, are connected through their close observation of nature and skillful use of materials.
It includes over 15 works by the muchloved JMW Turner, showing how he captured the essence of the land and sea before the invention of photography.
Paul Rooney: Broken Token (also October 19 to January 12 2025) is a two-screen film that explores the idea of home during a time of war. It’s part of the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund – a national partnership programme led by Imperial War Museums. Its production has involved Plymouth veterans, creatives and West Country folk
singer Hannah Martin. Rooney has combined the veterans’ recollections of connecting with home during conflicts in the Falklands, The Gulf and Afghanistan with film footage and a melodic folk ballad.
The Box is also celebrating the 200th anniversary of the founding of Devonport –once a separate town named Dock – through displays that draw on the city’s archives and a new commission by filmmakers Naresh Kaushal and Jamie Harper.
Discover more about these, plus Osman Yousefzada: When will we be good enough? (November 2 to March 9 2025) and Planet Ocean (until April 27 2025) at www. theboxplymouth.com
Join The Box on its ‘Journey to a Million’
The Box will soon be welcoming its one millionth visitor and it could be someone reading this article.
There’s only one way to find out! If you, your family or friends haven’t yet visited, went a while ago and have been meaning to go back, or you’re a regular attendee, why not head to The Box again?
Enjoy everything that’s on offer this autumn and help it reach this important milestone.
Visit our website for a full list of companies participating, www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/will
One of 15 works by the much-loved artist JMW Turner in the exhibition: Kilchurn Castle with the Cruchan Ben Mountains, Noon 1801. Photo - The Box, Plymouth
Ingrid Pollard’s Three Drops of Blood by Ingrid Pollard. Image by Stephen Tolfrey. Courtesy of The Box, Plymouth. © the artist
Southwest Funeral Care wins national award
Southwest Funeral Care has been named the Good Funeral Awards’ Low Cost Funeral Provider of the Year award for the second year in a row.
The independent, family-run funeral home based in Southway Drive, opened in 2020, with father and daughter team Paul and Stacey Warren at its helm.
Since then, the team has been dedicated to providing bespoke, family-centred care to those who choose Southwest Funeral Care to provide their loved-one’s service.
They have the privilege of being able to offer a funeral service at their funeral home. This enables families to have a fitting send off for their loved one with the choice of celebrant or minister, at a realistic, affordable cost.
“We are so humbled to announce we have received the National Good Funeral Award for Low Cost Funeral Provider of the Year again,” said Paul. “We cannot thank everyone enough for nominating us. We will continue to go above and beyond for our families, with our hard work and dedication never faltering.”
Comments from those nominating the company included that ‘their attention to detail, support, professionalism, but above all compassion, is second to none’ and that they offer ‘a quality, first class service delivered with the utmost compassion, professionalism and support at an affordable price’.
Father and daughter proprietors Paul and Stacey Warren with their national award
It was also noted that ‘Southwest Funeral Care have flowers in-house, which they allow families to use without a cost – giving every family member the service they need at a low cost, which takes a lot of pressure off everyone’.
Paul added: “The comments from some nominees with regards to taking the pressure
off our families and managing to keep our costs at a minimum, without compromising on quality, truly blew us away. Thank you to each and every one of you who took the time to share your views on our service.”
For more information visit www. southwestfuneralcare.co.uk or call 01752 651020.
New support group for tinnitus sufferers in Plymouth
A new group to support local people with tinnitus is being formed in Plymouth.
It is estimated that over 37,000 people experience tinnitus in Plymouth alone, and an estimated eight million people in the UK will be affected by tinnitus by 2025 - around one in seven adults.
Facilitated by Jill Field, Julie Williams and Carol Evans the group will enable people with tinnitus to meet others with the condition, hear useful tips on coping methods, find out what help is available and hear about the latest research.
Jill said: “I hope our new support group will provide a safe place where people living with and supporting people with tinnitus can come together and support each other, receive information and advice and feel able to share common experiences.”
The Plymouth Tinnitus Peer Support Group
is supported by Tinnitus UK. Julia Hobbs, Tinnitus UK”s head of services, commented: “Being among people who have tinnitus, listening to their experiences and how they manage it, can be a tremendous help.
“It is amazing to see the difference interacting with others living well with the condition makes to people, especially those who have recently been diagnosed.”
Tinnitus is defined as the experience of sounds with no external source, most commonly ringing or buzzing, but sometimes experienced as whooshing, clicking or even music. Around one in eight adults experience persistent tinnitus.
“Many people aren’t troubled by sounds they hear, but for around 10 per cent, the condition has a significant impact on their quality of life, often linked to stress, anxiety or sometimes depression.
Julia added: “Tinnitus can be an isolating condition, with friends and family struggling to understand how it feels to adapt to the presence of loud or persistent noises.
“Some people choose to bring a partner or family member to the meetings, which can often help both parties understand more about the condition and the experiences or behaviours it can bring.”
The first meeting of the support group will take place on Friday October 24 from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Ernest English House, Buckwell Street, Plymouth.
Anyone is welcome to attend, but attendance should be confirmed by emailing plymouthtinnitusgroup@gmail.com
For more information about the group please contact Jill or call the Tinnitus UK Helpline 0800 018 0527 (Mon- Fri 10am to 4pm)
TACKLING THE WORKFORCE CHALLENGES IN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Key representatives from Plymouth’s health and social care sector have met for the first time to share system-wide, collective workforce strategies across University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Livewell Southwest and adult social care.
The event hosted by Caring Plymouth, the city’s sector skills partnership for health and social care, brought together a range of stakeholders including adult social care providers, Plymouth City Council’s Commissioners, senior representatives from the NHS and Livewell Southwest, training providers including further and higher education, and representatives from Department for Work and Pensions.
Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “We now have shared understanding about the demands for this critical workforce so that we can better prioritise the coordinated actions that we need to take to deliver a sustainable, system-wide skilled workforce for the future.
“We know that this sector has the highest overall demand for recruitment in Plymouth, with approximately 350 unique job vacancies a month with highest demands for care workers and home carers as well as nurses, and there is also significant need for managerial and administrative roles.”
Speaking at the event, Darryn Allcorn, chief nurse and director of Integrated Professions at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, said: “It is exceptionally positive that we can work collaboratively across the city in order to understand our collective workforce demands and challenges.
“There is so much more to our workforce than the traditional caring roles associated with health and social care. Through working together, we can ensure our local communities not only have employment opportunities but supported to develop lifelong careers.”
Sharing their workforce strategy priorities, Nicky Varker, assistant director of Workforce at Livewell Southwest, said: “We share in the ambition to deliver the highest-quality health and care services to our population and to do this, we want to make sure Plymouth is the destination of choice for roles in the sector.
“This means creating attractive packages that bring the best people into the city and support them to unlock their potential. We’ve worked hard to open doors in recent years with new pathways into nursing that are helping people to achieve aspirations they had started to close a door on.
“The challenge is to spread this into our wider workforce to create clear development pathways to help people enter and grow within Livewell.”
The event also marked the launch of the city’s first dedicated Skills and Training Directory for the Health and Social Care sector which provides access and improved information, advice and guidance for people new to the sector as well as helping the existing workforce with career progression. For further information email caringplymouth@plymouth.gov.uk
Plympton’s new Hillcrest Centre meeting the many needs of the local community
Hillcrest Community Centre in Plympton has officially opened its doors to the community.
Run by Carl and Sarah Goldsborough, Lauren and Gavin Bolger and a team of volunteers whose aims are to meet the needs of the community. The Hillcrest Centre is a registered not for profit Community Interest Company.
The team behind the centre all work full time and give up their spare time to push the centre forward. They have ambition and drive, offering a range of different activities and ideas, all aimed at helping the local community.
There are many plans in the pipeline, including catering courses, cooking on a budget, a community café, boxing sessions, food bank, community fridge, craft fairs, children’s parties and more. There are also plans for specially adapted sessions for neurodivergent children and adults helping them to feel included in society.
Carl’s Boxing Stable operates from The Hillcrest Centre holding classes from Monday to Thursday from 6pm to 7pm and 7pm to 8pm and also private one-on-one coaching sessions daily. The boxing club attracts around 50 adults and children every evening and has six national amateur champions.
The club aims to bring families together during training sessions, with children and parents improving both physical and mental health through exercise building confidence, resilience and discipline and helping to prevent anti social behaviour.
RKID Club, which is also run within the Hillcrest Centre is specifically a designated club for SEND families offering a safe space, help, support and guidance pre and post diagnosis.
The Centre will have a team of volunteers with lived experience who will support parents with their mental health, offering help with form filling, workshops, signposting if needed as well as drop in clinics offering
a helping hand and guidance through each stage of the journey with their family. The aim is to help some of the most vulnerable families in in the community.
Stay and play sessions are available which include sensory, messy and imaginative play, music stories, and craft activities. This provides a safe place for children to play and be themselves by offering an all inclusive secure environment which not only helps the child it also helps the parents make connections with other SEND families and not feel soisolated.
The Centre will be offering space for private bookings for parties and family time together with the shared premises.
There is also the ringside cafe where families can enjoy coffee mornings time together, building friendships and enjoying family time together.
Future plans are to run RKID Club Youth Club and Young Carers Club in the evening and the Centre is holding lots of activities for
PROFESSIONAL CAR BODY REPAIRS FOR PLYMSTOCK AND SURROUNDING AREA
52 Oreston Road, Plymstock, PL97JH 01752 415506 • Car accident repairs • Bumper repairs • Car body repairs • Car restoration • Car spraying
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The Hillcrest Community Centre provides a wide range of facilities for families and youngsters alike
children over Halloween.
For further information please contact: Hillcrest Centre Sarah 01752 962991 email hillcrestcomcentre@yahoo.com
Carl’s Boxing Stable Carl 07958398355 email Carlsboxingstable@yahoo.co.uk
RKID Club Lauren 01752 962992 email Rkidclub@outlook.com
Above: The sensory room at Hillcrest and (below) the soft play area
National amateur champion Zac Eccles (second from left) with head coach, Carl Goldsborough, coach JP and ex professional boxer, now a coach, Vernon Penprase
New pitches and partnership: Sherford teams up with Argyle Community Trust to open outdoor sports facility
Extensive new outdoor sports facilities have opened at Sherford and they will be managed by Argyle Community Trust, the official charity of Plymouth Argyle.
The exciting new partnership will provide community access to Sherford Sports Hub, which has an all-weather sand-dressed astro turf pitch, full-size grass pitch, and tennis courts.
Both Sherford residents and the wider local community will have access to the new public pitches and high-class facilities – and will be able to hire pitches and book onto courses through a new online booking system. Located on Hercules Road, the amenities are easy to get to and include a car park, public toilets including an accessible toilet, and an on-site office for Argyle Community Trust.
The investment in these sports facilities is part of a broader vision to create a vibrant and active community, driven by the Sherford Consortium and supported by Plymouth City Council.
The Sherford Consortium is a partnership between two award-winning national housebuilders – Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Group, which includes Linden Homes, Bovis Homes and Countryside Partnerships – which is responsible for the creation of Sherford.
The collaboration with Argyle Community Trust ensures that these pitches will be used to their full potential, offering opportunities for grassroots teams and individuals to engage in activities right on their doorstep, removing barriers to participation.
Argyle Community Trust will bring a wealth
of expertise to Sherford, with more than 20 years’ experience of sports development in the region, and the successful operation of Manadon and Central Park sports hubs. The Trust engages thousands of people through its sports programmes and community outreach activities across Plymouth, Devon, and Cornwall.
To mark the milestone and celebrate the launch in style, a Community Launch Week will take place throughout half-term from Monday October 28 to Friday November 1, with a host of free or discounted activities taking place.
Community Open Day: Monday October 28, 10am-2pm
Residents and visitors will be invited to celebrate the new partnership. A free event with no booking required, the day will provide an opportunity to experience the new facilities first-hand and offer a range of fun activities for families, including: Sports – football, tennis, cricket, hockey; face painting,refreshments and a visit from Pilgrim Pete!
Half-term Launch Week: Tuesday October 29 to Friday November 1
Argyle Community Trust will run a variety of activities and taster sessions. Open to all, visitors are invited to have a go at tennis, kick a ball around on the astro pitch, and enjoy the new facilities. Equipment will be available to use – or participants can bring their own. The full list of events, free activities and discounted sessions will be listed on the website.
Argyle Community Trust will run various sports sessions, holiday clubs, and community outreach activities at Sherford from the new facilities. This will include an opportunity to play tennis for free at least once a week with support from qualified tennis coaches, free equipment hire, and a loyalty scheme. Information on the
SUNRISEWINDOWS
programme, prices and booking details will be available on the dedicated Sherford Sports Hub page.
These new sports facilities at Sherford are part of a broader plan that includes multiple sports and recreation areas at Sherford. The town has already welcomed a multi-use games area and skatepark, plans have been approved for a leisure centre, and future amenities will include football, cricket and rugby pitches, and a new pavilion building.
Richard Harrison from Taylor Wimpey, part of the Sherford Consortium said: “The opening of these new sports pitches and facilities marks yet another important milestone for Sherford. In partnership with Argyle Community Trust, we are committed to fostering a community where sports and recreation are accessible to all. We believe these top-tier sports and recreational facilities will inspire many to pursue an active lifestyle and bring the new and existing local communities closer together.”
Lewis Coombes, head of facilities from Argyle Community Trust, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with the Sherford Consortium to launch these facilities and are really excited by the opportunities we can offer to the Sherford community. We know that citybased sports clubs, community groups, and local residents are going to really value these spaces so we are looking forward to engaging with them to fulfil their needs and promote availability and accessibility of the facility.”
Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sports and Leisure for Plymouth City Council, added: “Gaining high-quality new pitches and sport facilities is great news for Plymouth. Argyle Community Trust has achieved a huge amount locally and is the right choice to manage these new facilities at Sherford. We are committed to making Plymouth a great place to grow up and grow old and through partnerships such as this are creating opportunities for more people involved in physical activity and creating new and exciting spaces to enable this.”
Find out more about Sherford at www. sherford.uk and Argyle Community Trust at www.argylecommunitytrust.co.uk
Photo: Argyle Community Trust
The new tennis courts
Full sized football pitch
New investment agreement could help reduce flood risk
Huge investments in Plymouth’s water management could be unlocked thanks to an innovative new partnership.
It comes after Plymouth City Council entered into a naturerestoration partnership with Rebalance Earth, a UK-based boutique fund manager, entirely focused on connecting finance with nature.
As part of a new memorandum of understanding, Rebalance Earth will collaborate with Ocean City Nature, an arm’s length, Council-owned ‘habitat bank’, to design and ultimately fund investible propositions, through their new innovative nature restoration strategy.
Habitat banks are a form of green finance that ensures that the biodiversity net gain, required by law for large developments, benefits residents and also ensures that natural habitats are looked after and maintained for many years to come.
From January 2024, national planning laws changed to require all large developments, as defined in planning terms, to provide at least ten per cent biodiversity net gain on all construction.
Developers investing in the city are able to purchase ‘units’ of already established biodiversity from the Habitat Bank, enabling them to fulfil their legal obligations, while funding a lasting environmental legacy in publicly owned natural environments within Plymouth.
The funding provided by Rebalance Earth will allow the council to better manage the risk of flooding from the River Plym.
Improvements will include the renaturalising of water courses to help slow the flow of water along with the development of more nature-based drainage systems, which will allow eco-systems to hold more water.‚
Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “We are incredibly proud to be piloting Rebalance Earth’s innovative new green finance fund here in Plymouth.
“Our plan was always to seek outside investment for Ocean City Nature and this partnership aligns perfectly with our strategic vision of building climate resilience and most importantly, enhancing the quality of life for our residents by improving, maintaining and optimising our cherished green and blue spaces.
“By integrating natural systems into our city’s infrastructure planning, we’re setting a precedent for how cities can leverage Nature-based solutions to drive sustainable economic growth, improve public health, and create a thriving environment for generations to come.”
Robert Gardner, chief executive and co-founder of Rebalance Earth,
emphasised the importance of the partnership: “Plymouth City Council is leading the way, demonstrating how we can come together to restore Nature and tackle climate change head-on. Nature is our most powerful ally, and we must rebuild it as the essential infrastructure that shields our cities, communities, and businesses from the growing threats of floods, droughts, and environmental degradation.
“By recognising nature as businesscritical infrastructure, we are shifting the paradigm – transforming natural systems into investable assets that protect our environment and generate long-term economic benefits. Plymouth will serve as a model that can be scaled and replicated across the UK.”
Existing solutions to mitigate these risks requires large amounts of capital expenditure, and only provide a short-term fix with costs continuing to rise.
Rebalance Earth’s strategy is to work with Local Government Associations, starting with Plymouth City Council, on nature restoration projects, by making a clear business case for companies to pay for nature restoration in their local areas in order to increase their operational resilience using Nature as a Service (NaaS) offtake agreements.‚
These long-term agreements not only provide companies with operational resilience from climate and nature related risks by reducing business disruption and risk of damage to assets, but they also generate attractive risk-adjusted returns. Additional returns are generated through Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) units and Voluntary Carbon Credits.
Once cashflow is generated from nature it becomes an investable asset class.
“The impressive Mayflower Brassiere is nestled inside the great Boringdon Hall and boasts two AA rosettes, led by Head Chef Max Ellerton.
Just off the Great Hall, the Mayflower Brassiere provides a more relaxed dining experience while still keeping the history, charm and elegance of the manor house.
“Dining with friends, who were lucky enough to be staying at the hotel, we enjoyed a pre-dinner drink in the ‘secret bar’ from their extensive drinks menu which includes cocktails designed by their very own mixologists. We recommend trying their Boringdon Hall gin.”
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Pictured after the signing of the new investment partnership (from left) Caption Walid Al Saqqaf, co-founder of Rebalance Earth, Rob Gardner, chief executive and co-founder of Rebalance Earth Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change and Kat Deeney, head of Environmental Planning at Plymouth City Council
Walid Al Saqqaf, co-founder of Rebalance Earth highlighted the strategic focus on water management: “Our focus on the River Plym highlights the strategic importance of water management in Plymouth’s infrastructure planning. By investing in nature-based solutions, we aim to mitigate the risk of severe flooding events like the devastating Marsh Mills flood of November 1954 and the recent extensive flooding last month.
Prosperity
“Applying advanced technologies like AI, remote sensing, and geospatial mapping, we can optimise how investments are directed in natural landscapes along the Plym to reduce flooding risks and ensure a stable water supply during dry spells, ultimately increasing long-term resilience for both local businesses and the City of Plymouth.
“This project sets the stage for scaling similar initiatives across Plymouth and the UK, highlighting the power of nature as a driver of both social and economic prosperity.”
Plymouth City Council’s partnership with Rebalance Earth demonstrates the council’s ongoing commitment to invest in nature-aligned solutions and protect its city from future climaterelated flooding risks like flooding, enhancing economic resilience for its businesses and improved quality of life its residents.
PUBLIC NOTICE TRUSTEE ACT
SECTION 27
DAVID PILL DECEASED
PURSUANT TO THE TRUSTEE ACT 1925 Section 27
Notice is hereby given that any person having a claim against or an interest in the Estate of David Pill of 3 Hazel Grove, Plymouth, Devon PL9 8DW who died on the 22nd January 2024 is hereby required to send particulars in writing of his/her claim or interest to the undersigned the Solicitors for the Executor on or before the 29th November 2024 after which date the Executor will proceed to distribute the assets of the said Deceased amongst the persons entitled thereto having regard only to the claims and interests of which he shall then have had notice and shall not be liable for the assets of the Deceased or any part of them so distributed to any person or persons of whose claims or interests he then has not had notice
Dated this 16th September 2024
Ageing Well project picks up pace
Work is continuing at pace to make Plymouth a more welcoming city for older people, the City Council Cabinet has been told.
Last year, the council committed to ambitious plans for Plymouth to become a city where people age well, where older residents are supported and empowered to live life to the fullest.
Over the past few months a city-wide steering group has been developing an ageing well programme for Plymouth, setting out how the council will:
• Support people to live healthily
• Have age-friendly places across the city that feel welcome and safe (this includes transport, outdoor spaces and buildings)
• Ensure activities are available that are financially, culturally and physically accessible
• Promote and celebrate the contribution of older people in the community
• Ensure older people have opportunities to develop new skills and pass on their skills
• Ensure that communications across the city are inclusive and portray positive images of older people.
At the next Cabinet meeting in October the council will launch a ‘State of Ageing’ report, presenting a picture of what is happening across Plymouth, including examples of lived experience and insights from real people. This report will help highlight the gaps and areas for future focus, with an action plan for moving things forward.
The council has also launched a new Ageing Well online hub, pulling together all the support and opportunities into one easy space.
A volunteering fair will also be held, focusing on volunteers over 50 years old, and there will be a range of activities, including taster sessions for special events, giving older people the opportunity to access new services, get information or advice and connect with others.
The launch of the hub came on International Day of Older People on October 1 which aimed to raise awareness of the opportunities and challenges faced by ageing populations, and to mobilise the wider community to address difficulties faced by older people.
Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “People are living longer which means there are more older people in our population now. Our Ageing Well programme is about making Plymouth a great place for people to grow old and changing people’s
perspectives.
“Ageing is a privilege, not a problem to be solved. We want to support people to live healthy and independent lives and to be valued members of the community as they grow older and we know that the earlier that people receive this support, the more positive the impact.
Our new hub contains a wealth of information to help people in Plymouth make the most of life.”
The new hub contains information about:
• Age Friendly places and spaces
• Help and advice
• Employment, skills and volunteering opportunities
• Travel
• Health and wellbeing.
The new Ageing Well Hub can be found at www. plymouth.gov.uk/ageing-well-hub
Guildhall refurbishment project moves inside
The front of Plymouth Guildhall is once again in view following a restoration project of the outside of this historic building
The scaffolding has now come down revealing the fine workmanship that has been going on behind to repair the stonework.
The front elevation of the building has been hidden since March to enable the work to be carried out by Westcountry Stonemasons, who were commissioned by the council.
As the building is listed, the project has involved carefully removing old material such as lime and mortar from between the stone work which has perished over time.
Materials had to be tested to ensure the replacement render would survive more decades of wind and weather and sea air.
The unique wave-shaped awning over the front doors has also been cleaned and waterproofed.
The restoration work began at the end of last year, with the focus initially on the northern Royal Parade-facing side and the western tower, The work involved repairs to the stonework on all sides of the building.
Cement used in earlier repairs has been replaced with a sympathetic lime render which would have been used historically, allowing the building to breathe better.
The Guildhall, including Great Hall, Assize Courts and City Treasury, was originally built in the 1870s but reduced to a shell during the Blitz. The buildings survived – by one single council vote in 1951 – the threat of demolition and became a focus of Plymouth’s rebuilding and the most significant survival from the bombed city centre. It was one of the few damaged buildings to be restored rather than rebuilt.
With work completed on the outside of the
Armada Way
work is now under way –at long last!
The long-awaited scheme to make Armada Way a greener, safer, more family-friendly city centre is now off the starting blocks.
Council leader Tudor Evans and city centre champion Councillor Mark Lowry marked the start of work by digging the ground at the top compound near North Cross, which will become a hive of industry as contractors swing into action.
Councillor Evans said: “This is a big day and a big deal. We said we would sort Armada Way and we are. It’s been a hell of a journey, but we are determined to make it worthwhile. There is so much to be gained from this scheme –new spaces for events and activities, places to play, better lighting, better seating, new CCTV cameras to help prevent antisocial behaviour, new landscapes to provide for biodiversity and a sustainable urban drainage system which will relieve pressure on our ageing drainage system. We are investing in the city centre because we think it is important and the right thing to do.”
City Centre Champion Mark Lowry added: “We would like to thank the businesses for their continued patience and support while we worked through all the challenges a scheme of this ambition has thrown up. Investors are watching this with great interest.
building, the inside of Plymouth’s Guildhall is to be given a makeover to help bring the buzz back to this landmark building.
Contractors TEC Construction have taken over the building to prepare for a major overhaul that will bring this historic landmark bang up to date for gigs, entertainment events, conferences, training and weddings.
The project will involve installing features such as acoustic curtains in the Great Hall, acoustic panels from the ceiling to improve the sound quality for different types of events. Facility panels will also be provided in the Great Hall to enable event organisers better audio visual connectivity for productions.
Also in the Great Hall, the roof trusses are being strengthened to enable higher spec lighting to be used and modular staging is to be installed offering organisers who hire the building more flexibility.
Toilets on the ground floor and within the Lounge Bar will also be refurbished, and a commercial kitchen installed adjacent to the Great Hall, while outside a ramp for wheelchairs and prams is being created to improve access.
The existing Lounge Bar will be demolished and replaced with a new larger and more modern bar increasing the number of covers and improving the customer experience. The building will also benefit from new lighting in key areas and upgraded WiFi throughout.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Community, said: “This is a massively important building for the city and it deserves to be back in the spotlight and play a bigger part in people’s lives and the life of the city centre.
“It’s played host to some incredible artists –Bowie, Queen and the Who in the 70s, but the needs of bands, orchestras and events organisers
have changed over the years. It’s great to see the work get underway.
The alterations are sympathetic to the building’s character and interior which Historic England describe as a ‘rare and unusually rich example’ of an unaltered `Festival of Britain’ interior. There are some outstanding touches including an imposing black and white marble staircase, a mural depicting famous sons of Plymouth and the city’s maritime history and three stunning 1950s chandeliers.
Over the last few months, the council has been in discussions with the contractor to value engineer the original specification to reduce the price to a more affordable sum that still delivers the scheme’s key outcomes, which is to create a space in the city centre that will attract a new wave of visitors and users.
“We currently have around 800 homes in the city centre and we want to see many more. The city centre is seeing rejuvenation and regeneration on a massive scale, which is needed if we are to make it a buzzing place where people want to visit, shop or live in.”
Given the scale of the scheme, the construction will take place over 22 months and will be carried out in phases.
Armada Way has been split into work zones and the first sign of progress will be site clearance and the creation of a haul road – a temporary road made from recycled building material – in the top two zones, with the top zone the first to see extensive work carried out. These roads will appear in each zone, to enable construction vehicles to get on and off the sites easily from the highway.
The compound overlooked by Beckley Point will see contractors digging foundations and forming the new amphitheatre, installing pipework for the rill and constructing the rain gardens – the first stage of the new SuDs scheme.
New landscaping, tree planting, new lighting, street furniture and flag poles reinstated as well as new paving are also part of the project plan.The team has met with businesses and will be working closely with the 50 or so retailers along Armada Way to ensure as little disruption as possible while the work progresses.
Steve Hughes, chief executive of the City Centre Company, said: “There are over 500 businesses here in the city centre employing over 7,000 employees.
“This scheme is hugely important to the city, to the shops, to future investors. We are delighted to see work start and can’t wait for this important street to be transformed.”
For all information and updates visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/armada-way
Image by EddieK at Pixabay
Plymstock Post
Standing together against violence and hate crime
Update from Cllr Daniel Steel for Plymstock Radford
At the most recent Full Council – a meeting of Plymouth City Councillors to discuss the important issues facing our city – I proposed my first Motion on Notice on community cohesion. A Motion on Notice is a debate topic and sets council policy.
Given the disorder we saw around the country and in our city over the summer, it was important to call on the whole council to stand together to make clear that violence, racism and hate have no place in Plymouth. I am pleased to report the motion passed with unanimous support!
It was also about celebrating the work of our unsung heroes in the police, council officers, and other partners who help keep us safe and our city running smoothly. I was extremely moved by the maiden speech of my fellow Plymstock Councillor, Maria Lawson, who received a well-deserved standing ovation. Cllr. Lawson summarises her speech later in this article.
In my speech one topic I spoke about was the inspiring actions of a group of residents from Plymstock who organised a carpool for care workers, many of whom would have usually clocked off and caught buses to Royal Parade to get home. One of these residents told me: ‘I could have wept at the relief the carers showed at having offers of lifts.’ This is the true Janner spirit.
Alongside preparations for the Full Council meeting, attending community and civic events and supporting residents with casework, we have continued our regular rhythm of Councillor surgeries at Plymstock Library alongside Devon & Cornwall Police’s Plymstock Neighbourhood Team. This remains a vital channel for residents to share their thoughts and concerns.
Update from Cllr Maria Lawson for Plymstock Dunstone
During my maiden speech at the Full Council meeting in response to Cllr Steel’s motion on community cohesion, it was important to recognise the positive contribution that our diverse community has made to our city.
I have worked as a nurse in Plymouth for over 41 years. The workforce at Derriford of over 11,000 people is made up of committed and caring staff from 92 countries. The skills and expertise of our diverse workforce enables the delivery of care to residents of Plymouth and the surrounding area.
My beautiful diverse and blended family have always contributed positively to society. My mother-in-law and father-in-law answered the call from the mother country and left their home in Jamaica to help in the NHS. My motherin-law worked in nursing until she was 67 and my fatherin-law becoming the first black public health inspector in Salford. They arrived in this country before Jamaica gained independence as British citizens.
My husband, who was born here, served 22 years in the Royal Navy and I believe was the second black police officer in Plymouth, serving a further 20 years.
In my speech, I reflected on the racism and discrimination my son has experienced throughout his life and how this had led him to question his own identity and sense of belonging. I also expressed how members of the global community who work at Derriford have expressed feeling unsafe and uncomfortable travelling to and from work. My fear is that misinformation and disinformation may lead to a rise in hate crime.It is all our responsibility to continue to stand up to hate and call it out when we see it. As Maya Angelou said: ‘Hate has caused a lot of problems in this world but has not solved one yet.”
Update from Cllr John Stephens for Plymstock Dunstone
In the debate recalling the shameful violence in our city over the summer, Cllr Tess Blight spoke about the value of high-class teaching of Religious Education in our city’s schools.
She named Goosewell Primary Academy to highlight its excellent teaching of RE to challenge and enable children to take their place in a diverse, multi-cultural, multi-faith and multi-secular city such as Plymouth.
Over 75 languages are spoken in our city’s schools by children who look upon each other as classmates, friends and members of the same school who share and contribute to their community, city and the planet that we all belong to.
On November 8, here in Plymstock, people will gather around the War Memorial on Burrow Hill to honour the lives of men and women who served our country, often paying the ultimate sacrifice, and usually alongside those of other nationalities and faiths.
The gathering, like those rightacross the land, is not just for veterans but also for their families and the public, members of our various public services, national and local elected members, and children and young people from some Plymstock schools.
In doing so, they will join as one to commemorate, pray and hope that the world we live in will see an end to the horrors and heartache caused by those whose motive it to dominate and perpetuate cruel acts of hatred and division.
As we remember them, let us all remember those who suffer today.
As ever, please contact your Plymstock Labour councillors via email or by mobile if you have any concerns or issues we can support you with.
Update from Cllr Stefan Krizanac for Plymstock Dunstone
Cllr Maria Lawson and I visited Plymstock Bowling Club on their Family Open Day. I was under the impression that only senior citizens played bowls there but was pleasantlly surprised to see all age groups enjoying themselves playing and socialising.
The club, owned by members, is refurbishing the bar area in the next few months and have ambitious plans to install solar panels to reduce energy and carbon costs. The latter is something we are looking forward to helping the club with through our community grant.
During our September ward walk around Staddiscombe, Dunstone councillors saw at first hand the difference a football club experienced using newly purchased equipment we had purchased with our community grants. On the same walk, we had the opportunity to see a memorial stone and
a standing ovation for her address at the council meeting
of
the
fields. It was a
radar station stationed there during the Second World War and those who manned it to protect our communities during some of the darkest days in our history. I will reflect upon this during Remembrance Day.
Councillor Contact Details Plymstock Radford: daniel.steel@plymouth.gov.uk on 07483 300703
Plymstock Dunstone: Maria.Lawson@plymouth.gov.uk 07483 301 286 Stefan.Krizanac@plymouth.gov.uk 07813 395 873
John.Stephens@plymouth.gov.uk 07977 7630 601
THE PLYM VALLEY ORIENT EXPRESS
Members of the cast of Murder on the Orient Express took time out of their busy schedule to board a steam train at Plym Valley Railway!
The UK tour of Agatha Christie’s greatest literary achievements played at the Theatre Royal during September.
Swapping the Orient Express for the
the visiting
Councillor Daniel Steel speaking at the meeting of the Full Council
By Councillors John Stephens, Daniel Steel Stefan Krizanac and Maria Lawson
plaque tucked away in
shrubbery along the perimeter
Staddiscombe playing
reminder of a
Councillor Maria Lawson received
Albert,
cast included Bob Barrett, Mila Carter, Rebecca Charles, Jean-Baptiste Fillon, Iniki Mariano, Rishi Rian, Alex Stedman and Michael Maloney who plays Agatha Christie’s famous Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot.
City College to fundraise for St Luke’s Hospice
City College Plymouth is partnering with St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, choosing the Plymouth based charity as their charity for the 2024/25 academic year.
As part of the college’s ongoing commitment to supporting community wellbeing and making a difference to the lives of local people, St Luke’s has been a cornerstone of care in Plymouth and the surrounding area for over 40 years, providing compassionate end-of-life care and support for those with terminal illnesses.
Throughout the year, students and staff will be working closely with the charity to raise much-needed funds and awareness through various events and initiatives including St Luke’s flagship events such as Tour De Moor, Men’s Day Out and the Midnight Walk.
Founded in 1982, St Luke’s offers specialist care to people with life-limiting illnesses across Plymouth, South West Devon, and East Cornwall. The hospice cares for over 300 people at any one time, delivering the majority of care in the comfort of patients’ homes, alongside its specialist unit in Turnchapel.
Their holistic approach ensures not only medical care
but also emotional and practical support for patients and their families. Their dedication to dignity and compassion has made St Luke’s a lifeline for the community.
City College student experience manager Chaz Talbot said: “We are delighted to be supporting St Luke’s as our charity partner. Their incredible work touches the lives of so many in our community.
“As a college that is deeply rooted in Plymouth, we recognise the importance of supporting local organisations that make a real difference. Our students and staff are excited to engage in fundraising efforts and community initiatives that will help St Luke’s continue delivering their vital services. Together, we can raise awareness, contribute to their mission, and ensure that their life-changing work continues to reach those in need.”
Every year, City College Plymouth students and staff choose a charity to support throughout the academic year. Last year, the community at the college chose Surfers Against Sewage, taking part in numerous fundraising events and activities to support the Cornwall-based marine conservation charity.
Make a will and help support St Luke’s Hospice
Every year during make a will week local solicitors and legal practices prepare a will in return for a donation to a chosen charity.
This year Make a Will Week runs from November 4 to November 10 and a number of local legal companies will be giving their time free of charge to update or write wills in return for a donation to St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth. Making a will helps provide peace of mind and is one of the kindest things people can do for the ones they love. Making a will is especially important for those who have children or other family members who depend on them financially.
The support offered by local companies during Make a Will Week helps ensure people with terminal illness live well to the end of their lives, making the most of every precious moment with those they hold dear.
Visit the St Luke’s website for a full list of companies participating at www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/will
Struggling to climb out of
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From back to front, left to right: Wayne Marshall, partnerships lead for St Luke’s; Pauline Hands, executive of health, science, leisure & public services at City College Plymouth; Chaz Talbot, student experience manager at City College Plymouth; Ben Manning, executive of curriculum, quality and student experience at City College Plymouth; Penny Hannah, head of fundraising for St Luke’s; Nina Wearne, Partnerships Manager for St Luke’s; and Judi Loheac, curriculum lead for health & childhood education at City College Plymouth.
Proposed new day nursery is dividing opinion in Plympton
Proposals to turn a redundant, disused chapel into a day nursery have divided the community living around it, with views polarised for and against.
A planning application has been submitted by Adam Jensen for a change of use of the old Underwood Chapel where the current planning consent is for a place of worship.
In his change of use application for the building which has been disused for a number of years Mr Jensen says: “Plymouth City Council are not currently meeting their Childcare Sufficiency Duty in the area and so this would go some way to addressing this issue.”
The main concern with local residents is with the extra traffic in Underwood Road and associated parking problems which are expected. One of those against the proposal remarked: “There’s absolutely nowhere near enough parking on Underwood Road. So much so that many Underwood residents park in Copse Road causing knock-on parking problems for Copse Road residents. This development would make the current situation even more untenable.
They added: “It wouldn’t provide a safe environment for the loading and unloading of babies and children into cars. The road is very narrow and cars get damaged on a regular basis already. Whilst I recognise the need for more nursery spaces, the location of this building is totally unsuitable.”
However, on the other side of the argument a resident who has lived in Underwood Road for 14 years said: “That poor chapel has been left to nothing and I for one am so glad it is finally being put to good use. Yes, there is a parking issue, but does that mean everything has to stop because we’re too afraid to lose our unofficial parking spaces? No. I look forward to welcoming the new nursery as our new neighbours.”
Another supporter of the nursery said: “I have lived in Plympton for 30 years and one of the biggest struggles in the area is lack of childcare places. I have a grandson and granddaughter who are both in need of a nursery and cannot get one anywhere close to where we live.
“Parents who want this nursery to go ahead will be more than happy to park in other areas and walk because that is much better than having to travel across the city just to get to a nursery. I hope this nursery goes ahead for the sake of local parents who are facing the same issues as my grandchildren.”
A number opposed to the application are skeptical that parents and carers using the nursery will actually walk to and from it and even for those that do one objector has pointed out that the narrow nature of the pavements and obstructions on them often lead to people with buggies and prams having to move out onto the road to pass them.
The transport statement submitted with the application suggests that a two hour staggered arrival window and five hour departure window plus car pooling for staff will act as mitigating features to any traffic and parking impact on nearby residents.
The document concludes: “The transition to a nursery will create a predictable, low-traffic environment that integrates well with the surrounding residential area.”
The planning application has been called in for a full debate before the planning committee. The deadline for public comments for or against the application, which is numbered 24/01199/FUL, is October 22 2024. Comments can be e-mailed to planningconsents@plymouth.gov.uk and the full application documents can be read on the planning section of plymouth.gov.uk (story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
As the leaves start to fall and there is a definitely autumn feel setting in, it’s good to reflect on the last few weeks.
September started with two weeks in Westminster. It saw my Maiden Speech. where it was a privilege to reflect on what it means to be the new MP for South West Devon and give a mention to Plymstock and Plympton, as well as other parts of this lovely constituency. It also saw the appalling decision by the government to scrap Winter Fuel Payment for all pensioners except those on Pension Credit. Being able to speak in the important debate that took place in Parliament and to be able to vote against this measure enabled me to reflect the hundreds of constituents who have been in touch, worried and concerned about this move.
You can find both of my speeches on my website: www.rebecca-smith.org.uk. If you would like any support to apply for pension credit, please contact my office on 01752 335666 and we can advise.
We have also heard that the funding for the long-awaited Emergency and Urgent Care facility at Derriford is under review by the Labour government.
The delays that this is causing have a direct impact on the ongoing work to improve Derriford and ensure the care provided is even better than it currently is. I have launched a petition to show the Health Secretary how much this new facility is supported locally. If you’d like to sign my petition, visit www.rebecca-smith.org.uk.
Starting this month have been my constituency surgeries. I’ve held two – one in Plymstock and one in Plympton. It was great to meet a number of constituents to support them in a wide range of issues. Do email me at Rebecca.smith.mp@parliament.uk or call 01752 335666 if you would like to arrange an appointment.
I know many local residents of Plympton attended the recent public consultation on the proposed housing scheme at West Park Hill, between Newnham and Hemerdon. As a former chair of Plymouth City Council’s Planning Committee, I have seen first hand the positive impact that new developments which give proper consideration to the neighbouring community can offer local people. I also saw the negative impact that poorly conceived ones could have.
That’s why I am seeking assurances that proper infrastructure is in place for the proposed 500 home development, including the impact on the local road network, parking, sewage system capacity and the provision of suitable bus routes. I look forward to learning about the outcomes of this current
Rebecca’s Review
By Rebecca Smith newly-elected MP for South West Devon and Ward Councillor for Plymstock Radford
public consultation and encourage anyone in the Plympton area to contribute. You can provide your feedback here: www. westparkhillnewnham.co.uk/feedback
Congratulations to Simon and his team at Plymstock Fire Station who hosted another fun-packed and interactive day earlier in the month. It was lovely to see the Plymstock Police team joining in the fun, as well as an ambulance crew pop along for a while too. A real ‘Blue Light’ event. My toddler niece had the best time, as did her parents and aunt! It was lovely to see out the month with the annual Macmillan Coffee Morning hosted by Val and Alan Street in Plympton. Tea, coffee and delicious cakes were followed by a raffle and auction. Val tries to raise £1,000 every year for Macmillan - a true local hero! I always enjoy catching up with local residents at events like this and it was good to see some familiar faces!
Parliament returns on October 7 and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in again and representing you in Westminster. As ever, you can get in contact via email at rebecca.smith.mp@parliament.uk or phone at 01752 335666 if I can help in any way. Do check out my website or feel free to follow me on Facebook: www.fb.com/SWDevonRebecca
Rebecca pictured at Plymstock Fire Station’s Open Day
Rebecca with Val and Alan Street at the Macmillan Coffee Morning fundraiser
Rebecca inspecting the plans for the new homes development at West Park Hill
Lifelines
In
the depths
of despair Tom
cried out to a God he didn’t know to ‘mend me or end me’
When Tom Collins lost his first wife Anne to cancer his life descended into years of despair, depression and darkness.
The couple had been married for more than 20 years when Anne passed away at the age of 47 in 1996. She had been diagnosed with four brain tumours at the end of 1995 and been given six months to live. She died nine months later.
Tom had a strange premonition before Anne’s cancer was diagnosed. He said: “She had become ill and I had this weird feeling that my world as I knew it was going to come to an end.”
He cared for Anne over the following months at their home in Tamerton Foliot and as her health deteriorated he cried out for her to pass peacefully. Tom said: “I wasn’t religious and didn’t go to church, but like a lot of people in this situation I cried out to a God I didn’t know for her to go peacefully. I had always felt that there was a higher power in our lives.”
With few family or friends around, Tom found himself grieving mostly on his own and more than a decade of pain and sadness followed.
Tom said: “It was as if my whole world had collapsed and I was in a very dark place. I was angry with the world and everything in it.”
A keen motor cyclist he joined the biking world and in his words ‘became a different person.’
“I had a fast racing motor bike and rode like a lunatic because I didn’t care if I died,” he said. “It got me into trouble with the police for speeding and they told me at my age I needed to slow down a bit.”
He took their advice and decided to buy a Harley Davidson instead and years of rideouts with his new found biking friends followed. “It became my whole life,” said Tom. “I enjoyed the camaraderie, but we did lots of stupid things and I got involved with soft drugs during this time.”
By this time Tom was in his early 60s and he realised that his life was shallow and meaningless. “I was sick of the life I was leading. I thought I was going to be alone for the rest of my life and got to a point where I didn’t want to be here anymore.
“Again in desperation I cried out to a God I didn’t know to “mend me or end me.’ I wanted to be a different person and really needed someone who would help me change. I had a sort of tick list wanting that person to have honesty and integrity, non smoker, non drinker, ideally a woman and someone younger than me,” he added.
A few days later he had parked up his Harley on The Hoe and was sat admiring the view in the
sunshine when Tom’s life was about to change as he heard the familiar rumble of another Harley Davidson approaching.
“I turned and watched as the rider parked up really neatly next to my bike. When they took their helmet off I could see it was a young woman. As she walked by me I commented on her neat parking and she stopped to chat. She told me she was called Bronia and I found out that she had lost her husband a few years earlier.
“She seemed so positive about life and had a really bubbly personality and it was then that she told me that her own family and church family had helped her cope with the loss. She had something about her that I didn’t have and I know that was because she was a Christian.”
They exchanged telephone numbers and later went on rideouts on their Harley Davidsons together.
“We got to know each other better and talked a lot about faith and Christianity and Bronia then talked to me about something called Alpha which is a course for people who want to find out more about faith and Christianity. I hadn’t opened a Bible or gone to church for decades, but Bronia persuaded me to go,” said Tom.
The course was run by Hope Baptist Church in Peverell and it was during the course that Tom, who was initially sceptical, became convinced of the existence of Jesus, that He was the Son of God and that He offered everyone the opportunity to invite Him into their lives.
One of the books which Alpha participants were recommended to read was John Stott’s Basic Christianity. Ironically Tom had been given a copy of the book many years before by some Christian neighboursbut he had never bothered to read it.
Tom said: “I took it to work one day to read and then came across a prayer at the end of the book. It said that if you really wanted Jesus to come into your life you have got to invite him. As I said ‘Jesus I am truly sorry, will you please come into my life,’ the tears started running down my face and I started to shake uncontrollably and as
Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth
this happened the DJ on my transistor radio said ‘and now we are going to play My Sweet Lord by George Harrison!’ It was incredible.”
Scan the QR code to watch Tom’s interview on Cross Rhythms Plymouth
“It was the turning point of my life. I started to attend Hope Baptist Church with Bronia on a regular basis and our friendship grew stronger and stronger. We would ride out on our Harleys, go for walks and were always talking about faith,” said Tom. They lived separately over the years but after praying about their future together they married eight years after they first met and they now live in Plympton.
Tom said: “I was in such a dark place but now my life is so fulfilled thanks to Jesus. When I came to faith I had a feeling, I didn’t hear a voice as such, but I definitely had a compulsion to tell people just what God has done for me.”
By:
Produced
Tom Collins
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City art galleries host prestigious national exhibition
Plymouth is hosting a prestigious national exhibition featuring work by the next generation of artists.
Bloomberg New Contemporaries opens at three venues in the city on September 28 and runs until December 7, before touring in London.
Marking 75 years of New Contemporaries, the 2024 exhibition features 35 artists who have been selected through an open call by internationally renowned artists Liz Johnson Artur, Permindar Kaur and Amalia Pica.
Launching at KARST, The Levinsky Gallery at Plymouth University, and MIRROR at Arts University Plymouth, the exhibition marks the first time New Contemporaries has been held in Plymouth since 1964.
Donna Howard, executive director of KARST said: “New Contemporaries is a great opportunity for Plymouth to showcase the city’s ambitious and dynamic contemporary art scene at a local, regional and national level.
“The artists in this year’s New Contemporaries focus on themes
and issues that are relevant to Plymouth and society more widely and we are excited about the conversations that will emerge as audiences visit the exhibition across the three venues.”
Works are arranged thematically at each venue offering an overview of urgent lived concerns, interests and social realities from this generation of artists.
Recurrent themes include mindfulness, consumerism, conviviality, environmentalism, geographical borders, and identity politics. A diverse range of mediums and approaches are featured including painting, sculpture, installation, photography, moving image and sound.
Since 1949, New Contemporaries has presented an annual exhibition of emerging and early career artists from UK art schools and learning programmes. The unique platform provides artists with an opportunity to present their work to a wider audience, alongside a programme of opportunities to support the development of their practice.
PLYMOUTH SET TO BENEFIT FROM NEW HEAT NETWORKS
Large swathes of Plymouth businesses and homes could soon benefit from an innovative new system of heat networks.
As one of only 28 UK cities involved in the government’s Heat Network Zoning Pilot, the council has been working on planning the first phase of this system.
Heat networks, also known as district heating, use a central source of heat which is distributed to consumers, via a network of underground pipes carrying hot water.
So instead of each building in the city using their own individual gas boilers or electric heaters, the system creates what is in effect a city-wide central heating system.
Waste heat, from other processes such as manufacturing and data centres, is by far the cheapest source of heat and also decouples the supply of heat from some of the volatility of energy prices,
associated with fossil fuels. It also provides a more efficient and lower carbon heating solution.
Plans for the first phase, which would see external funding of up to £60m spent on connecting-up major buildings in the city centre with the waterfront, were presented to Cabinet on September 9.
Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “This is an incredibly ambitious and complex project but the demands of the climate emergency are such that we have to be bold in our planning for the future.
“Heat networks like this have got the potential to revolutionise how urban buildings - be that commercial or residential - are heated and in the future, possibly cooled. Added to the end benefits of the actual scheme are the economic benefits of its construction, which will support growth with green jobs and skills development.
“I’m really pleased to support this project and commit the council
to supporting this through the first phase and beyond.”
The masterplan for the new heat network shows two zones. The first, in the southern and western areas of the city, is based principally around two large waste heat sources; the South West Water Central Plant, and the Devonport Energy from Waste plant.
The second zone, in the north of the city at Derriford, is focused around waste heat from the NHS medical waste incinerator, together with expanding the existing ground source heating scheme at Marjons University to provide heating and cooling across this area. While the first phase of the project will focus on business and commercial premises, the long-term ambition is for the scheme to be used for social, and eventually, other housing. The council is now seeking the procurement of a development partner and will submit an application to the Green Heat Network Fund to financially support the delivery of the first phase of the project.
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Youngsters from Argyle Community Trust put through their paces by Royal Navy instructors
Sixty youngsters from the Argyle Community Trust have been put through their paces by Royal Navy physical training instructors.
The instructors – based at HMS Drake in Devonport – gave the young athletes an introduction to a strength-sapping battle physical training session and stretcher run. The unique event allowed youngsters to experience firsthand the rigorous physical and mental challenges that military recruits face during their training.
“These activities are designed to foster camaraderie, teamwork, and resilience, qualities that are essential both in the military and on the football pitch,” said leading physical trainer Jamie Le Page, who led the activity.
“The stretcher run is a pretty physically and demanding task that requires everyone to work together and trust each other, this mirrors the coordination and team spirit needed in all competitive sports.
“Such experiences not only test an individual’s physical endurance but also builds mental toughness, providing valuable lessons for these young athletes as they develop their skills.”
D. TAYLOR
Thousands of Plymouth children missing out on free school meals
Parents and carers are being urged to check if their child is eligible for free school meals, with data indicating that approximately 2,600 children in Plymouth could be missing out.
Free school meals provide children with a hot, healthy lunch every day and give access to other benefits such as free holiday clubs during the school holidays.
Schools also receive invaluable extra funding for every child attending who receives free school meals. This is worth £1,480 per eligible pupil for primary schools and £1,050 per eligible pupil for secondary schools which means Plymouth schools are collectively missing out on more than £3 million.
This funding helps to tackle barriers and enables schools to put in place extra support for pupils who need more help to thrive and achieve their highest potential. Schools can use the funding in a huge variety of ways, which can include developing high quality teaching, providing targeted academic support, implementing initiatives to support attendance or offering extracurricular activities.
While all children in Reception to Year 2 receive universal infant free school meals, eligible families can still apply to help make sure the school is able to access this funding.
Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships said: “If you receive any of the qualifying benefits then I would really encourage you to apply online for Free School Meals, regardless of the age of your child, and it’s worth applying even if you are not sure if you qualify.
“It’s such a fantastic way for families to save both time and money that would be spent on prepping packed lunches. And even if your child would prefer a packed lunch, they can choose not to take up the free lunch option everyday and their school will still benefit from the vital additional funding available.”
Data from the Low Income Family Tracker by Policy in Practice has identified approximately 1,600 households in Plymouth that could be eligible for free school meals but are not currently claiming them.
Children and young people in primary, secondary and post-16 education may be eligible if their parent or carer receives certain benefits:
• Universal Credit with an annual income of less than £7,400
• Child Tax Credit with an annual income of less than £16,190
• Income based Employment and Support Allowance
• Income based Job Seeker’s Allowance
• Income support
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• Guaranteed element of Pension Credit
• Guaranteed element of the State Pension Credit
• Working Tax Credit run-on paid for four weeks after recipient stops qualifying for Working Tax Credit
To apply, visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/freeschool-meals. If extra support is needed in order to complete the application form, parents or carers can visit their local Family or Wellbeing Hub.
Plymouth University shortlisted for two prestigious awards
Plymouth University has been shortlisted for two prestigious awards at the Times Higher Education Awards 2024.
It is in the running for the Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership category, recognising its world-leading research and leadership in offshore renewable energy.
And it has made the shortlist in the Outstanding Estates Team category, following a period of significant investment and transformation right across the University campus.
University vice-chancellor Professor Dame Judith Petts said: “These nominations reflect the spirit of ingenuity and innovation that runs through everything we do. They recognise the work of our world-leading researchers, who are at the forefront of developing and delivering ways to harness the ocean’s power in the quest for clean energy.
“They also acknowledge the efforts of the team behind the ongoing transformation of our campus, which is ensuring staff and students work, learn and live in first class facilities. Above all, they demonstrate our shared commitment to finding solutions to the planet’s most pressing challenges, at the same time as taking – and inspiring – local and global actions.”
Offshore renewable energy (ORE) is widely acknowledged as being critical to the global net-zero agenda. Through its pioneering research, teaching, facilities, collaborations and influence, the university has earned a place at the forefront of national and international ORE innovation.
Its Centre for Decarbonisation and Offshore Renewable Energy, launched in 2023, is furthering its work in the field while its facilities – including the UK Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Test Facility and laboratories dedicated to autonomous monitoring
and cyber security – are ensuring future installations take advantage of the latest technologies.
Its continued leadership of the national Supergen ORE Hub is allowing the university to unite government, industry and academia beyond common clean energy goals that are driving the UK towards its ambitious net-zero commitments.
The shortlisting in the Outstanding Estates Team category recognises the efforts of more than 300 staff working as part of the Estates and Facilities Directorate. They cover functions from capital projects, catering and cleaning to student accommodation, security and sustainability.
During the period covered by these awards, their work enabled the University to become only the second in the UK to achieve PAS 2060 carbon neutral verification. They also led the completion of the £100million remodelling of InterCity Place and the Babbage Building, and worked with researchers on the CobBauge
Building, a first-of-its-kind showcase of sustainable construction technologies. Other initiatives include a strengthened commitment to encouraging biodiversity, the increased use of ethically and locally procured food in its cafés, and the sourcing and transporting of an electricity generator to a partner university in Ukraine.
Engaging students, staff, partners and visitors, these actions symbolise a joined-up team approach that enables the university to deliver first-rate facilities and opportunities, while supporting communities and reducing any environmental impact.
The Times Higher Education Awards Widely recognised as the Oscars of higher education, the Awards attract hundreds of entries each year that exemplify the talent, innovation and commitment of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life. The winners will be announced at a ceremony taking place in November 2024 at the ICC in Birmingham.
Memorial to former leader is unveiled in
A tribute to a former leader of Plymouth City Council has been unveiled at a development that she had championed.
Honorary Alderwoman Vivien Pengelly passed away in June 2023 following a short illness having served on the council for over 30 years.
A popular character on all sides of the Council chamber, Councillor Pengelly served as Leader of the Council between 2007 and 2012, an important period in the council’s transformation, and served as Lord Mayor of Plymouth between 2013 and 2014. In her later council career, she worked as the Cabinet Member for Housing, and it was during this time that she brought forward the plans for Broadland Gardens, a development of ten new energy-efficient, sustainable homes, built on site of the former Morley Youth Centre. With the site now nearly complete, a tree and accompanying bench has been installed at the site, which sits in Vivien’s former Plymstock Dunstone ward.
Current leader Councillor Tudor Evans, and Councillor Chris Penberthy, joined Vivien’s son Jon Kennedy, on site at the new development. (see picture above)
“I’m so pleased to be able to unveil this lasting tribute for Vivien, who served this community with such distinction for so many years,” said Councillor Evans. Vivien was a powerful and dynamic politician and was always your friend whatever
Photo: University of Plymouth
your views were. We sparred regularly, but we remained good friends. She is sorely missed.” Councillor Penberthy added: “We’re so pleased
to be able to honour Vivien in this way, not just in her beloved Plymstock, but also on a development she had a hand in making possible.”
Plymstock
Council leader Tudor Evans pictured with Vivien’s son Jon Kennedy and Cllr Chris Penberthy
Two nuclear milestones for City College and Babcock
City College Plymouth has launched its groundbreaking Engineering & Nuclear Skills building, developed in partnership with Babcock International Group, and the National College for Nuclear.
The cutting-edge facility further solidifies the college as Plymouth’s anchor institution for skills, leading the way in upskilling the region’s workforce and boosting social mobility through world-class training and education.
The Engineering & Nuclear Skills building features state-of-the-art resources designed to meet the needs of the ever-evolving energy and defence sectors. From immersive classrooms equipped with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology to advanced mechatronics labs and fabrication workshops, the new facility offers a unique and innovative environment where students can hone the crucial skills that industries need today.
Chief executive, Jackie Grubb said: “City College is at the forefront of driving growth and boosting social mobility by equipping our community with the crucial skills needed in key sectors like defence and energy security. Our partnership with the Babcock International Group and the National College for Nuclear is key to advancing expertise in the nuclear industry.”
Jackie continued: “Through our collaboration with leading employers and colleges such as Bridgwater & Taunton, we’re ensuring that Plymouth’s future workforce receives the specialised training necessary to thrive.
“Together with our strategic partners, we’re dedicated to continuously upskilling our community, enhancing social mobility,
and strengthening the nuclear industry’s capabilities.”
The new building will also support the upskilling of Babcock International Group’s workforce, contributing to national and international defence programmes, including the UK’s submarine maintenance and AUKUS programme.
As Plymouth aims to grow its population, City College is committed to providing the skills necessary to support the city’s future.
Jackie added: “The new Engineering & Nuclear Skills building is just the beginning. Our vision is to make City College a powerhouse for STEM education and training. We are deeply committed to providing the
best possible learning environments in partnership with industry, ensuring that our students are equipped for success.”
The college recently invested more than £2.5 million of grant funding in its facilities, including a mechatronics lab, immersive classrooms, and a fabrication workshop, as well as modernised health, science and business areas.
These investments continue to establish the College’s mission of offering groundbreaking teaching environments in collaboration with industry partners, equipping both students and the current workforce with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving job market.
£200m upgrade vital for national security
An extensive regeneration project of 9 Dock at Devonport Naval Base has been officially opened by Maria Eagle MP, Minister of State for Defence Procurement and Industry.
The project includes maintenance, life extension and facility improvements, delivering the most significant package of infrastructure work since the early 2000s. The site will receive the UK Vanguard Class submarines, which are critical in supporting the UK’s Continuous at Sea Deterrent and securing the long-term defence of the nation.
As part of Babcock’s long-term partnership with the Submarine Delivery Agency, including the maintenance of the UK’s Vanguard class submarines, the upgraded facility will deliver the current £560m maintenance programme already underway on HMS Victorious, extending the boat’s operational life.
Working with partners, the £200 million project has secured around 1000 local jobs, underpinning Babcock’s commitment to supporting the Plymouth community.
David Lockwood, Babcock chief executive, said: “Supporting the Continuous at Sea Deterrent is the most important thing we do.
The huge investment and increase in digital technology in this submarine facility ensures the UK has a sovereign, fit-for-purpose, deep
maintenance capability now and in the future.
“Opening our Engineering & Skills building at City College Plymouth on the same day, demonstrates our commitment to securing the critical nuclear skills the UK needs to continue to deliver these vital defence programmes.”
Maria Eagle MP said: “The Vanguard fleet
is at the heart of deterring our adversaries and keeping the UK safe. This government is committed to a ‘triple-lock’ on our nuclear and to bolstering national security through crucial refurbishments such as this one.”
Nuclear event (from left) David Lockwood, chief executive of Babcock International Group, Jackie Grubb, chief executive of City College Plymouth and Defence Minister, The Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP
Maria Eagle MP and Babcock chief executive David Lockwood at the official opening of the upgraded 9 Dock
All set for Santa Fun Run!
Plymouth residents are being encouraged to jingle all the way to the finish line this December as the Santa Fun Run makes its return to Plymouth’s waterfront for the second consecutive year.
Organised by Saltram Rotary, and supported by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, the festive event will be held on Sunday December 8, starting and finishing on the Barbican.
Participants of all ages are invited to don their Santa suits (all included with the registration fee) and enjoy the fun run, jolly jog, or wonderful walk of either a 2.5km or 5km route through the city’s beautiful waterfront all to support local charities Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah.
Jon Walton, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said: “We’re so excited to see the Santa Fun Run return to the Barbican and waterfront for a second year. Last year hundreds of Santas either walked, jogged or ran along our fantastic historic roads and enjoyed spectacular waterfront views.
“We really hope even more people will enter into the Christmas Spirit and participate this year to raise even more money for two such worthy local charities, Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah.”
Roger Punch of Saltram Rotary Club said: “Following on from the enormous success of the Plymouth Santa Fun Run on the waterfront last year, we are delighted to be able to take the plunge again this year. Again, primarily supporting Shekinah and Jeremiah’s Journey, who are such worthy charities, both providing invaluable support for the local community, we are looking forward to building on
the exceptionally positive feedback that we received. With invaluable support from the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, we have the realistic ambition of having 1,000 Santas on the start line on December 8.”
John Naismith of Jeremiah’s Journey said: “We are absolutely delighted that Saltram Rotary have selected Jeremiah’s Journey to be one of the supported charities for the Plymouth Santa Fun Run along with our friends at Shekinah. Being a part of such a high-profile fun run provides us the platform to promote the essential service that our Bereavement Services Team provide for children, young people and families in and around Plymouth. We are looking forward to many people joining us and there is every chance that you will see Jeremiah Bear complete the full 5k of the Plymouth Santa Fun Run again this year.”
Kristy Winters of Shekinah added:“We are thrilled that Shekinah has once again been chosen as one of the beneficiary charities for the Plymouth Santa Fun Run. This event is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness and support those most in need in our community. We are equally excited to be partnering with Jeremiah’s Journey once again!
“Our heartfelt thanks go out to the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and the Saltram Rotary for their continued support and dedication. We look forward to another successful and meaningful event this year!”
The Santa Fun Run takes place on Sunday December 8 at 11am. Registration is now open at www. plymouthsantafunrun.co.uk. All entrants receive a free Santa Suit and finishing medal as part of the entry fee.
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