Plymouth Chronicle November East 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eight-year-old Harry’s big moor challenge

An eight-year-old with big fundraising goals is all set to take on the moors on October 8 in St Luke’s Tour de Moor.

Harry Totham and his dad Paul will be taking part in the St Luke’s Hospice Tour de Moor for the first time this year, with high hopes of raising big money for the charity’s compassionate care.

The self-confessed bike fanatics from Elburton will be taking on the 33km route, which is brand new for this year, giving riders a fresh challenge to embark on.

Paul said: “Harry and I love anything and everything bike related. We are entered into the 33km race as Harry said he wanted to challenge himself, as in his words ‘11km wouldn’t be a challenge for him and he wanted to raise big money!’

“If he could he probably would have gone for the 52km but there is always next year – and knowing Harry this will be his challenge next time!”

The pair have been making sure to test their pedals before the big day, with Harry attending a weekly cycling club as well as training with his dad.

“Harry and I go out on Mondays for a long ride. He trains at his cycling club Dartmoor Velo – which I am a coach for – on a Wednesday and Saturday and often races on Sundays at regional events. It’s such a great friendly sport where the support of the other club members gives it a real family feel.”

So far, Harry and his dad have raised £465 on their JustGiving page, completely smashing the £100 fundraising target! This means they have been entered into a special draw to win an exciting prize!

To make a donation to Harry’s fundraiser visit www.justgiving.com and search for Paul Totham.

Like many of the riders taking part in Tour de Moor, Paul and Harry may not have seen St Luke’s care in action first hand, but they have seen the impact their care teams have in the local community.

Paul said: “We have been fortunate enough not to be impacted by anyone in our family or friends needing the support of St Luke’s, but Harry wanted to raise money for a worthy charity. Since moving down here six years ago from London, we have heard and seen the great work St Luke’s provides for local people in their time of need.

“So many people raise money for charity after they have been affected by something which is amazing, but how amazing is it for an eight-yearold wanting to raise money for a charity that has not affected his life.”

Sought after homes for sale

New homes on one of Plymouth’s newest energy-efficient housing developments are now available for purchase.

The ten new sustainable homes, built on site of the former Morley Youth Centre, off Broadland Gardens in Plymstock, are available in a mix of two, three and four bedroomed options.

With building work now at the ‘topping out’ stage, local estate agent Lang, Town and Country have begun marketing the homes for sale.

The new development has seen the direct delivery of new homes by tPlymouth City Council for the first time this century.

Heated with modern, energy-efficient technology, to help achieve low carbon living, particular attention has been paid to their design, so that they are adaptable and sustainable. They have been built by local construction firm Classic Builders.

The Broadland Gardens development has been funded through the council’s Plan for Homes Investment Fund.

All of the homes will be sold on the open market, with surplus repaid back into Plan for Homes for the provision of affordable housing elsewhere in the city.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said:

“The Broadland Gardens development has reached a truly exciting stage with these fantastic homes really starting to take shape.

“We are in the middle of a housing crisis and we need more houses in Plymouth. This direct delivery project helps in two ways. Firstly, it sets a standard for the market and allows us to deliver the

kind of energy-efficient, modern homes that Plymouth needs.

“But crucially, it also allows us to take the surplus generated and invest it in delivering affordable housing elsewhere in the city.”

Matthew Minett, land and new homes manager at Lang Town & Country, said of the development: “We are delighted to be acting as the marketing agents for Broadland Gardens.

“This is an exciting project which will provide quality homes that are

flexible, sustainable and futureproof.

“We look forward to offering prospective purchasers the opportunity to buy an exceptional family home that can adapt with the needs of the modern family and is built to last.”

For more information contact the Lang Town and Country Land and New Homes team 01752 278499 or register interest at www. langtownandcountry.com/ new-homes-for-sale/ broadland-gardens

Pictured at the Broadland Gardens development (from left) Shane Jeffery, senior quantity Surveyor at Classic Builders; John Bird, associate at Clifton Emery Design; Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing; Joe McCarthy, development viability officer at Plymouth City Council; Nick Carter, head of housing and growth at Plymouth City Council; Matthew Minett, land and new homes manager at Lang Town and Country; Neil Emery, director of Clifton Emery Design and James Brown, site manager at Classic Builders.

Eight-year-old Harry (above) and pictured in training for the Tour de Moor

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

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

Against Apartheid

Until Dec 2

A new group exhibition at KARST curated by Ashish Ghadiali, founding director of Radical Ecology, with featured artists including Sue Williamson, Kiluanji Kia Henda, Kedisha Coakley, Angela Camacho, Ashanti Hare and Annaless Davis. Through the work of international contemporary artists, activists and scientists, the exhibition explores the origins of ‘climate apartheid’ - a potential outcome of anthropogenic climate change where life becomes impossible for increasing sections of the human population. This scenario would predominantly impact black and brown communities living on the frontlines of climate breakdown. For details visit www. karst.org.uk

Our Secret’s Safe

Oct 21

Latest production from Pilot’s Thumb Theatre - known for their edgy social drama – at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus. Tickets from www.wegottickets. com

Myths and Magic trail

Oct 21 to Nov 5

Dress in your spookiest outfit and follow the trail to discover the folklore tales and magical properties of trees here at Saltram. And of course don’t forget those pesky pumpkins, they’ll be back hiding in the gardens too, can you spot them all again this year? Every day from 10am to 5pm (last entry at 4.15pm). Free entry and no need to book.

Collectors Toy & Train Fair

Oct 22

Organised by the Plymouth Diecast Club at The Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth from 10am to 1pm. Admission : Adults £1. Accompanied children free. Free onsite parking, security, wheelchair friendly, toilets. Cafe onsite.

Oliver!

Oct 25 to 28

Award-winning Plymouth theatre company TOPS Musical Productions present the popular musical at the Princess Theatre, Torquay. For tickets visit www. atgtickets.com/torquay

Oktoberfest

Oct 27 and 28

The popular event returns to Central Park with Oompah bands, DJs, and traditional German food and drink. Tickets available from https://buytickets.at/ oktoberfestuk/846197

Nearly New Sale

Oct 28

New parents and carers in Plymouth can save money and be environmentally friendly at NCT Plymouth and West Devon’s sale Nearly New Sale at Eggbuckland Community College from 10.30am to 12.15pm. Visit www.facebook.com/nctplymouth to find out more.

Day Conference on Roald Amundsen

Oct 28

The Devon and Cornwall Polar Society is hosting an all day event at Plymouth University’s Roland Levinsky Building on the life and times of Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen. In recent years, the Society has conducted several successful events commemorating Polar explorers of the ‘heroic age’ of Antarctic exploration and a celebration of Roald Amundsen is long overdue notwithstanding that Plymouth is the

birthplace of Captain Robert Falcon Scott. A panel of four distinguished polar experts will discuss the adventures and achievements of this great Norwegian explorer to an international audience. Details at www. devonandcornwallpolarsociety.org.uk/

Ivo Graham

Oct 28

The Taskmaster star is bringing his brand new show Organised Fun to the Quad Theatre on the Marjon University campus at 8pm. Tickets from www. comicalentertainment.com

Shopmobility Open Day

Nov 2

Access Plymouth event to highlight what they do and what they hire out at Mayflower East car park from 10am to 2pm. Free hot drinks and cake. Meet the team and take part in the raffle.

Coffee Morning

Nov 4

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. In aid of the Rainbow Project supporting children and families in Romania.

Bonfire Night

Nov 5

Plymouth’s spectacular Bonfire Night celebration is a safe and free way to spend the most explosive night of the year. Watch as the huge bonfire is lit, then gaze in awe at the brilliant firework display. If you’re feeling brave enough, have a go on the fairground rides or warm up with a bite to eat from one of the food stalls.

Schubert, Norway and Sea Songs

Nov 5

Featuring the young star baritone Aksel Rykkvin with pianist Zany Denyer and violinist Charles Mutter at Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road, Stoke at 4pm. The concert will feature music from Schubert, Schumann, and Grieg, with a lesser theme of Songs of the Sea and pieces from Aksel’s native Norway. All proceeds to Plymouth Music Accord’s educational work. Tickets from www. plymouthconcerts.com

Christmas Lights Switch On

Nov 16

Plymouth’s Christmas calendar kicks off with the big switch on between 5.45pm and 6.45pm. Exciting programme of free, family-friendly entertainment to enjoy on the stage in the Piazza.

Barbican Lights Switch On

Nov 18

Join the big event on the Barbican and Sutton Harbour for an afternoon of festive family fun with free activities, rides and entertainment from 12 noon. Switch on is at 5.30pm.

Plymouth Jazz Club

Nov 19

Featuring the Martin Dale Quartet with guest musician Jade Gall at Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Tickets on the door only. More details at www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk

Christmas Fair

Nov 25

St Francis Church Hall, Honicknowle, from 12 noon to 3pm. Various stalls, games and refreshments. Father Christmas will be arriving at 1pm.

Leave No One Behind

Nov 25

To mark the International Day of Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, Plymouth Soroptimists are organising a community walk against gender-based violence starting at 2pm from the Cornwall Street entrance of Drake Circus and finishing at the Nancy Astor statue on Plymouth Hoe. The aim is to raise awareness of the campaign to ‘Orange the World’. Orange is a bright and optimistic colour, representing a future free from violence against women and girls.

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir

Nov 25

The choir presents Handel’s Samson in The Minster Church of St Andrew at 7.15pm. Tickets £18 in advance or £20 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com/events/586914 or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, visit plymouthphilchoir.org

Christmas Fayre

Nov 25

Hosted by Ford Park Cemetery from 11am to 2.30pm. Variety of items for sale at bargain prices.

Plymouth Christmas Market

Nov 30 to Dec 17

Plymouth’s popular festive market will feature dozens of traders giving shoppers the chance to pick up some individual and unique Christmas gifts.

Santa Fun Run

Dec 3

Saltram Rotary Club’s annual fund raiser in the city centre will attract hundreds of Santas of all ages, shapes and sizes. The event starts at 11am and funds raised will go to Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah. For details visit www.plymouthsantafunrun.co.uk

Good Food & Craft Market

Dec 3

The popular market at Royal William Yard from 10am to 3pm showcases some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, offering everything from tasty treats to handcrafted gifts. A great place to buy those extra special Christmas gifts.

Carol Service

Dec 7

To be held in the Victorian Chapel at Ford Park Cemetery at 6.30pm. Tickets £6 which goes towards upkeep of Ford Park Cemetery.

Charity Concert

Dec 8 and 9

The Down Thomas Singers will be raising funds for Barnardo’s Plymouth with their two night concert. The Candlelit Celebration of Christmas Music and Carols will take place at the Silver Jubilee Hall, Down Thomas at 7.30pm. with free parking. Tickets are £5 including a hot drink and warm mince pie. All ticket sales and the closing bucket collection will be for Barnardo’s Plymouth. Tickets can be obtained from the secretary on 01752 299204.

Plymouth Jazz Club

Dec 17

Featuring the Dart Valley Stompers at Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Tickets on the door only. More details at www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk

Carols by Candlelight

Dec 21

Festive celebration at Salisbury Road Baptists Church at 7pm followed by mince pies and hot drinks. All welcome.

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

Plymouth’s Christmas Lights Switch on takes place on November 16. Photo: Visit Plymouth

Funding boost for project to help attract more

and shoppers

A project aimed at attracting more visitors, workers and residents to Plymouth and helping restore pride in the high street is to be given a boost.

It follows a decision by Plymouth City Council Leader Tudor Evans to allocate £460,812 of UK Shared Prosperity Funds for the Love Plymouth project which will support activities by the Plymouth City Centre Company, Destination Plymouth and Plymouth Waterfront Partnership to increase footfall and improve the look and feel of public spaces.

The focus is on the city centre and creating a greener waterfront and will include national marketing, enhancing the events programme, streetscape improvements in the West End to build on the planters installed last year and supporting a community event in Frankfort Gate.

The Love Plymouth Project will see more work to attract visitors and shoppers, including branding and marketing, street art and performance and other cultural activities.

It also includes a business support grant scheme to help reduce the number of empty units, increase business confidence, attract more customers and protect and create jobs.

There are also plans to install vehicle charging points on the Hoe for electric ice cream vans.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a Government funding stream, which is administered by the Plymouth City Council as the accountable body.

Plymouth has been allocated £3.1m for three years (2022/23 - 2024/25) to support a mix of revenue and capital spend.

Tudor Evans said: “Plymouth has a huge amount to offer both residents and visitors and this additional investment will build on the excellent work already being done by the business improvement districts to draw in shoppers and visitors to the city.

“Businesses have had a particularly tough time of it over the last few years so I am really pleased that the Love Plymouth project will help make key areas of the waterfront and city centre even more attractive place to visit and shop.”

The funding will boost the waterfront and city centre Photo:

Dom Moore

Dental training programme shortlisted for top award

Plymouth University’s work to combine first-rate dental training with outstanding community care has been shortlisted for a prestigious accolade in the Times Higher Education Awards 2023.

The pioneering work of the Peninsula Dental School and the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise is in the running to win the Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community category.

It recognises the efforts of more than 100 staff and 400 students working and studying with the University, and in communities across Devon and Cornwall.

It is also the second award shortlisting in a week for the University’s dentistry team, after the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise was named among the finalists in the UK Social Enterprise Awards.

Professor Ewen McColl, head of the Peninsula Dental School, said: “This shortlisting is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with the Peninsula Dental School and Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise. It is further evidence that our approach is yielding benefits, both for our students and staff but the communities of Devon and Cornwall as well. With widespread talk of a crisis in access to NHS dentistry,

this positive recognition could not be more timely.”

The Peninsula Dental School was originally established to tackle oral health inequalities in the South West, and to train dentists who would stay in the region once qualified.

In 2013, it also established the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE) to treat patients who may

not otherwise have access to care.

In 2021/22, the period covered by the awards, students registered with the Peninsula Dental School – and working at clinics run by PDSE – saw almost 5,600 patients across Devon and Cornwall.

Over the course of 28,000 appointments, 418 dental and hygiene therapy students were able to deliver crucial primary care

to many of the more vulnerable members of society, including those experiencing homelessness and other forms of social exclusion.

This activity marked a significant rise both in the number of patients seen, and appointments delivered, at the University’s Dental Education Facilities in Plymouth, Exeter and Truro.

And of the 1,748 patients who left

feedback during 2021/22, 97% said they would recommend the services to their own friends and family.

In addition to this primary care offer, during 2021/22 the University expanded its range of programmes designed to improve levels of oral health with the community.

Through an Inter-Professional Engagement Module, dental and dental therapy students had the opportunity to work directly with one of 14 host organisations caring for children, people with learning difficulties, older people at risk of isolation, young carers, those experiencing homelessness, and those living in social housing.

A Supervised Tooth Brushing Programme, led by academics and students, worked with pupils at 146 primary schools to provide advice and guidance on the benefits, and most effective methods, of brushing their teeth.

More than 3,000 children aged 16 and under, who are unable to register with a dentist, were seen at paediatric oral health clinic while a Looked After Children clinic provided treatment to 96 children and unaccompanied young asylum seekers.

The winners of the Times Higher Education Awards 2023, widely regarded as the Oscars of Higher Education, will be announced at a ceremony in December.

W E ARE RE C RUITIN G

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

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

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

Benefits include

• Competitive pay

• Pension contributions

• Employee discounts platform

• 4 and 3 day working week

• Training

• Occupational health

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Flexible shift patterns and more

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

NEXT EVENT...

Peter Mockford

Occasionally God pushes the reset button on the church because often we drift away from the focus of our faith, both personally and as institutions. We need to get back to our identity in Christ both as individuals and as a church so that we can move forward.

As a retired Anglican minister and a registered psychotherapist, Peter Mockford will be looking at this subject from a biblical perspective whilst also drawing from psychological insights.

The afternoon session will look particularly at our identity as individuals in Christ, and in the evening session we’ll look at our identity as the body of Christ.

Hear him speak:

Saturday 28th October

The King’s, Pixon Lane, Tavistock, PL19 9AZ

2:30pm - 4:30pm teaching and discussion

7:30pm - 9pm evening ministry meeting

The event is free to attend and open to all. There will be a voluntary offering taken to cover costs.

For more information

email info@fathershouse.org.uk or call 01752 225623

www.fathershouse.org.uk

PRIDE & JOY

The Home and Garden Maintenance Team

Our services include:

• hedge & shrub maintenance • weeding

• tree work • lawn care & grass cutting

• creation of flower & veggie beds • trellis work

• shed & greenhouse work • pond care

• general garden tidying • fencing & gates

• patios, decking and general landscaping work

Plans to expand important adult care service in Plymouth

Plymouth City Council is looking to expand a care service that supports adults with additional needs, helping them to live as independently as possible.

The service, Shared Lives, offers people the opportunity to live in their community with a host family or carer so that they can receive a personalised package of care and support. Adults currently supported by the service in Plymouth include those with a learning disability, physical disability or mental health issues.

The service offers both long-term care and short breaks to provide respite to other carers. It’s similar to fostering or supported lodgings for children and young people.

www.prideandjoy-homeandgarden.co.uk

Call NOW to discuss your needsWe can help! One-off or regular service. 01752 961639 / 07773339470

elburton dental

The council is awarding a new contract to the existing provider, Shared Lives South West, which will see the service continue for another two years.

The new contract also allows for an 11.5 per cent increase in the fee carers receive to recognise the work hosts do in supporting vulnerable adults in the city. There are currently 13 people in Plymouth who receive care from Shared Lives, but it is hoped that the increase will help with the recruitment and retention of carers, enabling more people to benefit from this type of care.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “The Shared Lives service is really valuable, supporting adults with additional needs or disabilities to live as independently in possible but with essential support on hand when they need it. This provides an alternative to supported living or care homes, enabling people to remain in their own communities and empowering them to develop independent living skills.

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

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

Elburton dental aims to offer high quality service at a fair price We have a team of very experienced dentists, hygienists and nurses We want our patients to receive the treatment that’s right for them so that you can make the choice of treatment that suits you best After all, they are your teeth!

Whether you are a regular in need of a check, if you haven’t been in years and think it’s about time, or if you are in need of urgent care and advice, feel free to get in touch

“We’re hoping to increase the number of Shared Lives carers in Plymouth so that more people can benefit from this brilliant service. It’s an incredibly rewarding and unusual role that gives people interested in working in care the opportunity to work from home, so if it’s something that you’re interested in I’d encourage you to find out more.”

Dominic Spayne, CEO at Shared Lives South West, said: “With nearly two decades of history, we take pride in our ‘outstanding’ rating from the Care Quality Commission and we are excited to continue growing our services in Plymouth.

“We are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those we support, the communities we are a part of, and the broader social care sector.

“Through our services being truly personcentred, people supported by Shared Lives services live their fullest lives and the outcomes we see are inspiring.

“To become a Shared Lives Carer all you need is a spare room and either prior care experience or transferable skills.”

Carers do not need to have formal qualifications, but are required to have had experience in the health and social care sector or relevant transferable skills. Full training and ongoing support is provided to successful applicants.

For more information and to apply to become a carer, visit the Shared Lives South West website: www.sharedlivessw.org.uk

New Violence Against Women and Girls Champion for the city

Councillor Zoe Reilly is the new VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) Champion for Plymouth.

She is a ward councillor for Honicknowle and is also chair of Education and Children’s Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

One of Councillor Reilly’s many passions is to drive culture change, create safe spaces, ensure that women and girls in Plymouth are supported and empowered to report violence and abuse and get the support they need at the right time and in the right place.

For her work, Councillor Zoe Reilly has been bringing local groups and organisations together in their drive to tackle VAWG and has been working closely with the Youth Parliament and has made connections through the youth service.

She has set up regular meetings with Devon and Cornwall Police alongside council officers specifically Meghan Field, the Strategic Lead for VAWG who has made huge strides in this area.

She has been busy speaking at events and helping to organise events where organisations wish to open the conversation about VAWG. Zoe has worked with Plymouth Artists together on projects and continues to do so.

She has built a good relationship with MAN culture and continues to champion the importance of this group in addressing the attitudes towards women and girls, and what VAWG is really about.

Zoe is keen to meet as many people who are already working really hard and are the driving force of tackling gender based violence.

Councillor Reilly said: “I am really excited to be appointed as the new VAWG Champion and eager to get stuck into my new role.

“This subject, whilst extremely emotive, is very important to me. Over the next year, I am hoping to bring all organisations across the city together, and work on how we tackle VAWG. I want to create a space for people to have honest, open and appropriate conversations about what VAWG is.”

The VWAG commission was established in 2022 and set out a framework to drive down violence and other abuse, with an emphasis on empowering men to recognise and challenge worrying behaviour by their peers.

Popular Plymstock Christmas display returns with more new characters

The popular annual display of Christmas cartoon characters will be back in Reddicliff Road, Plymstock from the beginning of December.

For the past 18 years Plymstock resident Brian Steele has raised thousands of pounds for charity with local residents and families making donations when they visit Reddicliff Road to see the colourful characters.

The focus of the display each year is to raise funds for children’s charities with last year raising over £800 for Children’s Hospice South West. This year, the display will be in aid of Save the Children fund.

Brian Steele has been the creator of this exhibition and this has been added over the years with the help of his grandchildren. Most of the time, Brian does the carving of the polystyrene figures, and the children do the painting.

He said: “Each year, we try to add new characters based on what local children have requested. One new addition this year is Scooby-Doo but there are two other new ones and we want visitors to guess which ones are new.”

Brian hopes that as many people as possible will visit the display and support a worthwhile cause.

Big jobs boost with Langage development

Around 140 high quality jobs in marine, defence and space sector are on the cards at the largest tax site in Plymouth and South Devon Freeport, thanks to a business case which has just been signed off.

Work on a series of industrial units is set to get underway early next year at Beaumont Way in Langage now that a decision has been signed by the Council Leader Tudor Evans to approve the business case and allocate funding to enable construction to start.

The multi-million pound scheme is subject to successfully securing £4 million from the UK Government as part of the Plymouth and South Freeport Seed Capital funding and an application has been submitted.

Planning permission was granted last year to develop a Plymouth City Council-owned plot for 4,615 sq m (50,000 sq ft) of sustainable, high quality, employment space for medium and large sized businesses to occupy.

Once complete, it is expected to support around 138 full time jobs, not to mention construction and

supply chain employment during the initial build period.

Tudor Evans said: “This is big stuff. This is 1.6 hectares – or four acres – that can we can now get started on.“We are tackling the shortage of high quality, modern employment space facilities, by taking on development ourselves. We have carried out a number of direct development projects in the city which have all performed really well and are all fully let. Quite simply, if we build them, they will come.”

The Langage Tax Site is the largest of the three tax sites for the Freeport and is strategically significant as it provides the space and opportunities to support sector growth plans and economic specialisation, underpinning trade and investment objectives.

Businesses that are part of the Freeport can take advantage of a range of tax and customs benefits and incentives to support growth, innovation and investment in the South West, including business rates relief, employer National Insurance contributions rate relief, stamp duty land tax relief, capital allowances, VAT and tariff benefits and

simplified import procedures.

The scheme has been designed to be highly sustainable and incorporates sustainable technology to minimise carbon emissions and running costs, including solar photovoltaic panels, increased levels of insulation, higher levels of natural daylight and ventilation, EV charging pods and highly efficient heating systems.Once finished, the completed development will be available to occupy by eligible tenants.

As this site is part of the Freeport designated tax site, eligible tenants must specialise in either marine, defence or space.

Councillor Evans added: “People ask me what the Freeport means to Plymouth. It means jobs –skilled work in sectors where Plymouth is really playing to its strengths – and getting support to unlock sites so that businesses can create jobs and expand.”

While the site is owned by Plymouth City Council, the land it sits on falls within the boundaries of South Hams District Council. The planning permission went through the South Hams planning authority last year.

Brian’s granddaughter Sabina with the latest figure Scooby-Doo

Argyle fan calls in Mrs Murals for special paint job

Plymouth Argyle superfan Tony Stoneman has already had his house painted in the Plymouth Argyle green and has now gone a step further by adding a Plymouth Argyle mural.

Tony asked the popular local artist Ellie Johnson, known as Mrs Murals, to paint the football stadium and the local football club’s logo on his garage door. The house in Plympton is already well known locally as the ‘Argyle House’ as it stands out from all the others

.Mrs Murals said: “I’m delighted to be able to make Tony’s vision come to life by painting the Plymouth Argyle mural on his garage. This is what I love about murals - they give you the chance to surround your environment with things that you love!” Mrs Murals is well known for her community artwork in the neighbourhood including subways, libraries and schools. For more information visit www.mrsmurals.com

Mobility Access in Plymouth

Access Plymouth provides Plymouth’s ShopMobility service, part of ShopMobility UK, a nationwide network of centres which hire out mobility equipment to the public. The charity has a range of equipment including manual wheelchairs, powerchairs, mobility scooters and walkers so people with restricted mobility can enjoy independence outdoors. Open to anyone over the age of 18 who are looking to access shops and leisure facilities in the city centre. Access Plymouth provides reliable and comfortable equipment that ensure confidence and peace of mind. They have a dedicated team which includes 10 volunteers and with over 3,600 hires last year the service is well equipped to support everyone.

Linda, a ShopMobility customer, said: “I wouldn’t be able to get into town and meet my daughter without

using a mobility scooter from Access Plymouth. It keeps me independent. Everyone is so helpful and having a private car park in the centre of town makes everything really easy.”

If walking longer distances is a problem or spending time outdoors with friends and family is challenging, Access Plymouth can help. Based in Mayflower East Car Park, customers can park and access the city shops and leisure outlets with ease. Prices start as little as £5 for daily hire. The service is open Monday to Saturday 9.15am to 4pm.

Access Plymouth is holding an Open Day on November 2 at Mayflower East Car Park from 10am to 2pm where local residents can find out more about what they hire and how it all works.

Alternatively to find out more about ShopMobility at Access Plymouth call 01752 600633, or visit their website at www. accessplymouth.co.uk

The newly-painted garage door

Funky Llama’s flagship Club Night is back and celebrating 10 years in style!

Funky Llama will celebrate 10 years of community with its flagship Club Night, taking place at Pryzm Nightclub in October.

Funky Llama is Theatre Royal Plymouth’s flagship project for disabled adults to actively participate in the creation and delivery of high-quality arts activities and events.

The project is currently celebrating its 10th year. With performances from Electric Fire, The Scribes, The Majestic, Andy Quick and many more, this event is set to be a real celebration.

The first Funky Llama Club Night was held at TR2 in 2013 with the aim of creating an event that was inclusive for everyone, whether they were disabled or not.

Sara Rhodes, associate director at Theatre Royal Plymouth said: “We are super excited for the return of the Funky Llama Club Night at Pryzm Nightclub. This event marks a significant moment in the marking of the 10th anniversary of the Funky Llama project.

“We have a fantastic line-up of disabled and non-disabled bands, acts and DJs to make a truly unforgettable evening. At its heart, the Funky Llama Club Night is about celebrating inclusion, community, and people from all walks of life being together to have a brilliant night.”

Jodie Paget, Club Night producer, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing our flagship

Club Night back in October to celebrate the brilliance of Funky Llama over the last 10 years – it’s a party you don’t want to miss!”    Funky Llama Club Night is taking place from

6pm to 11pm on Thursday October 19.

Tickets are £7 and can be purchased now by visiting the website at www.theatreroyal.com/ whats-on/clubnight

Plymouth City Council is looking for volunteers to help bring its ambitious outdoor poppy display to life ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

The plan, developed by Councillor Pauline Murphy will see a wave of handmadeweatherproof poppies hung from the balcony of the Council House, using a camouflage net donated by 29 Commando.

Support from residents, local community groups, schools, knitting clubs and Council staff is being enlisted to make hundreds of poppies from weatherproof materials, which will be attached to net and suspended from the balcony of the Council House to create a wave. Those interested in taking part will need to hand their poppies in to the Council House reception desk by October 13 at the latest.

From Monday 23 October, the poppies will be displayed on the balcony of the Council House, and will be there until Remembrance Sunday on November 12.

Councillor Pauline Murphy, Armed Forces Champion said: “It is so important to remember the service and sacrifice of all of those that lost their lives as a result of conflict. The poppies symbolise of both remembrance and hope for a peaceful future.”

“This project aims to honour the Armed Forces community and as President of the Federation of Ex-Services, and the Royal British Legion Crownhill Branch, I am really passionate about honouring those who have served our country and remembering their bravery, this is so important to me.”

Easy accessible bathrooms

We understand that there are many options available to you or a family member who is starting to experience some mobility issues or no longer feel safe getting in and out of your current bath or shower. Everyone’s needs are completely di erent and we always advise using a free home survey so we can assist in nding the best solution for you.

PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

Campaign launched to help give breast cancer patients new confidence during treatment

Plymouth, East Cornwall and West Devon’s breast care charity, The Primrose Foundation, is marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October by launching a campaign to raise money to provide wig funding for those patients who’ve lost their hair following breast cancer treatment.

The charity has a one-week campaign with The Big Give, running between October 11 and 18. The Foundation is looking to raise £2,500 from donations which would be doubled to £5,000 by The Big Give who will match fund donations.

Earlier this year, The Primrose Foundation teamed up with Plymouth-based non-profit organisation Roots to Rise to offer £100 wig vouchers for recovering breast cancer patients to have a beautiful wig fitted for them. With at least 60 people requiring this service locally every year, the scheme needs £6,000 a year to continue.

Madeleine Matthews, fundraising coordinator for The Primrose Foundation, said: “We came up with this powerful project because we know just how difficult this side effect of breast cancer treatment can be for so many people. Hair loss is incredibly upsetting, and some people can’t afford the luxury of a correctly fitted wig, so offering wig funding is a real comfort at a testing time.

“We know that great things can happen when our community comes together,” she added, “and any donation made by local people and businesses between October 11 and 18 will have twice the impact as it’s match funded.”

People can donate – on those days only – by visiting the Primrose Foundation’s website, which links to the donation page, www.primrosefoundation.org/bits-andblogs/2023/8/12/the-big-wig-campaign

The Foundation has supported The Primrose Breast Care Centre at Derriford Hospital for over 28 years, raising public awareness, supporting those affected by breast cancer and helping to enhance breast care services locally.

Each year over 25,000 people are seen at The Primrose Breast Care Centre and between 400 and 600 breast cancers are diagnosed and treated. It’s thanks to the help and support of The Primrose Foundation that the Centre has become a service of excellence.

Other recent Foundation projects include part funding a screening awareness double-decker bus in Plymouth, which has been driving home the message that breast screening saves lives. It follows the release of figures earlier this year which showed a worrying fall in the uptake of breast screening appointments nationally and locally, with the overall uptake in the Plymouth area dropping to 72.5%.

In some parts of Plymouth, the figure has dropped to 54%. As a result, The Primrose Foundation is also using Breast Cancer Awareness Month to re-emphasise the awareness message, with its ‘LOVE’ campaign. It’s encouraging everyone to LOVE themselves enough to be breast aware:

L - Looking out for lumps, bumps, or dimpling

O - Observe changes or something new V - Voice your concerns to a medical

this message to others

The charity recommends getting to know your body and knowing your ‘normal’. On social media, the Foundation issues a monthly self-check Sunday reminder to everyone to LOVE themselves enough to be breast-aware and hopes that this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, everyone with breast tissue takes a few minutes to check their breasts and the areas around them.

The Foundation is also promoting its Big Bra Drop campaign, which encourages people to donate a pre-loved, goodquality bra.

Shelley Coleman, Trustee of The Primrose Foundation, explained: “How many times have you purchased a bra, worn it a few times, then relegated it to the back of the drawer because it’s just not quite right? Often, we suspect.

“In fact, many of us have several bras tucked away that have never even been worn! With our Big Bra Drop, we can make use of them by recycling them and giving them new life, so please consider donating your new or nearly new bras to The Primrose Foundation.”

More information is in the Campaigns section of the Foundation’s website. www. primrosefoundation.org

The Roots To Rise team (from left) Janine Boylin, Jo Heaphy and Hayley Short

Hannah Leach having a wig fitted at Roots to Rise

National Marine Aquarium launches ‘Feed Friday the Turtle’ Experience

Visitors can book to get up close and personal with the National Marine Aquarium’s much-loved resident green sea turtle, Friday, with their new Feed the Turtle Experience.

Ticket holders will join the NMAs expert animal husbandry team, helping to prepare Friday’s turtle-friendly veggie dishes. They will then get special VIP behind-the-scenes access and feed Friday from the top of his Ocean habitat. Waterproofs are recommended as it can get wet!

Friday resides in the Atlantic Ocean habitat, the largest and deepest tank in the UK. Alongside him, his neighbours include Sand Tiger sharks, Lemon Sharks, Nurse sharks, Southern stingrays and many others.

The National Marine Aquarium, run by the Ocean Conservation Trust, is dedicated to the health and welfare of the animals and aims to keep their aquatic life in line with their oceanic one.

Green Sea Turtles eat lots of seagrass in the wild, however, more than 50% of this has been lost due to climate change. Seagrass is one of the most important ecosystems on our planet as it absorbs vast amounts of carbon, as well as being home to lots of marine life.

As one of the key partners in a large-scale habitat conservation project by Natural England, the Ocean Conservation Trust houses a purpose-built seagrass laboratory in the National Marine Aquarium, where 25,000 plants are cultivated annually. Watch as seagrass is planted and cultivated at the lab, along with learning more about the importance of regrowing and rewilding.

Marcus Williams, curator at the National Marine Aquarium, home of the Ocean Conservation Trust, said:  “We are really excited to be able to offer this unique opportunity to get up close and personal with our cheeky green turtle, Friday.

“At the Ocean Conservation Trust we are firm believers in giving people the opportunity to have amazing experiences in the marine environment and what can be more exciting than meeting and feeding an endangered turtle!

“Participants will have the opportunity to help prepare Friday’s food, see his home and learn all about how we care for our most iconic resident before feeding him his lunch

under the guidance of our expert staff.

“Friday has been with us at the National Marine Aquarium since 2017 and in that time he has proved to be a great character. He just loves meeting new people and is super inquisitive when people come to visit. This is surely a unique experience and one that will help inspire different generations to fall in

love with the Ocean and its inhabitants.”

The Feed the Turtle at The Aquarium Experience will be available from October. Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, with the minimum age being eight years old. The cost of the experience is £140 for up to four people and includes a day visitors pass to the NMA.

PLYMSTOCK Plymstock Community Centre

Monday at 5pm and 7pm with Bethan 07814 682898

Monday at 8am and 9:30am with 07494754493 Lauren

Wednesday at 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm with Richard 07828 773047

ELBURTON Elburton Village Hall

Thursday at 5.30pm and 7pm with Rich 07828 773047

Friday at 9am and 10.45am with Rich 07828 773047

Friday at 4.30pm and 6pm with Tuesday at 9.00am (New Group) from 12/09/23

Jayne 07974 642634

PLYMPTON St Peters Lutheran Church

SHERFORD Sherford Community Hub, Hercules Road (Larkham Lane)

Thursday

at 9am with Lesley 07717 721392

Thursday at 3.30pm, 5pm and 6.30pm with Debbie 07547 673997

Friday at 9am and 10.30am with Debbie 07547 673997

Saturday at 8.30am and 10am with June 07865 090812

MANY MORE REDUCTIONS IN-STORE

Sherford Life

November is a big month for remembering: we remember both heroes and villains, love and war.

First we have, “Remember, remember, the fifth of November.” It’s very useful remembering stories from history: it helps us to shape what we do in the present. The more we remember, the more we are able to avoid past mistakes and emulate past good. On Bonfire Night perhaps we can be thankful that our system of government tends more towards being open and accountable than it did back in the 1600s (even if it is still a work in progress!) On top of that, we get the fantastic fireworks, not least those launched across Plymouth Sound!

Later on in the month we remember the many thousands of people who gave their lives down the years fighting for our freedom and safety. At the same time it’s a great opportunity to honour those men and women who continue to risk their safety for ours, day by day, year on year.

How will you remember? Will you visit the Memorial on the Hoe? This year we have the Archbishop of Canterbury conducting the memorial service, as part of a weekend of events all around Devon titled, “Come and See”. Why not come and see for yourself the great act of sacrifice at the heart of the Christian faith?

Or simply go and listen to the Archbishop talking about his own experience of bereavement and loss, and the importance of remembering those we love who are no longer with us.

As the nights start to draw in, I have to say I do like Autumn. But I realise it will also mean people have to start debating when to put their heating on and I know this will be a harder decision for some than others.

The Cost of Living Hub on the Council website, which we set up last year and which has been recently updated, is a useful source of information and support if you need it: www.plymouth.gov.uk/cost-living

I started the month doing something a little different. I’ve recently taken part in a Future Leaders programme on defence, diplomacy and development, looking at Britain’s place in the world as a force for good.

This cross-party course enabled parliamentary candidates like me to develop our knowledge and understanding on foreign affairs and aid. Being based here, I like to think my local knowledge is strong but gaining skills on a wider range of national and international issues was incredibly valuable. We heard from a range of speakers including the ex-Head of MI6, former lead at GCHQ, senior diplomats, representatives at the UN and experts on countries like China. Plus household names like Baroness Ruth Davidson, Alistair Campbell and Lord Peter Mandleson. It was a fascinating and enriching few days and I thought you might be interested to hear about another side to the work I do.

Back home, I had a really interesting visit to the Sherford Building Skills Centre. Did you know there is a construction skills training centre on site in our new town of Sherford?

To ensure we had the skilled construction workers to build the 1000s of new homes there, City College Plymouth and the new home builders set up the Sherford Skills Training Scheme to do just this.

Rebecca’s Review

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

It was great to visit their fantastic workshop and met with some of the Building Heroes trainees who are either veterans or are gaining construction skills ahead of leaving the armed forces ready for new roles. This is just one of the training schemes run by City College at the centre. Thanks to Taylor Wimpey for arranging the visit and showing me their new homes and ‘Unwrapped House’ at the Sherford Urban Quarter.

Great to gain an understanding of how they build their homes and the work they are doing to create sustainable and efficient homes.

It’s always enjoyable to spend time with local community groups and the Plymstock Wednesday Wives was no exception. One of many groups across the area who meet up regularly to hear speakers, chat and enjoy tea and cake and meals out, they invited me along to share something of my journey into politics and to take their questions. We also celebrated Jean’s 94th birthday and raised money for Plymouth Foodbank

By Revd Tom Brassil

Perhaps you might prefer to go to an Act of Remembrance at a local church. On Sunday 12th November Sherford Community Church will host our annual Act of Remembrance at 11am, straight after the regular morning service at 10. Please come along if you’re in the area. And at our 10am service on Remembrance Sunday we’ll be discussing the original “David and Goliath story”. It’s an ancient story of a young man who faced down a huge warrior on the battlefield, who risked his life for the freedom of his people. But it’s not just a handy byword for tales of victory against the odds. It also shows us a God who cares enough to be the one to fight for his people. This is the same God who said, “Greater love has no-one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13, the Bible) – and then proceeded to do exactly that on the very next day as he was nailed to a Roman cross. Jesus encapsulates this as he lays down his life not just for his friends but even for those who consider themselves his enemies.

Remembering those brave souls doing the same for us on the modern battlefields brings home the depth of love shown in that act of self-sacrifice, and the depth of gratitude that should mark our response. In November we remember both heroes and villains, love and war. Which of those will mean more to you this year? How will you remember?

And finally, the month ended at the Macmillan Coffee Morning brilliantly hosted by former Plympton Stannator Alan Street and his wife Val. It was a privilege to join Sir Gary Streeter MP at this annual event and to meet some lovely local residents and see some familiar faces too.

As ever, do let me know if I can do anything to assist. You can e-mail me at rebecca@ rebecca-smith.org.uk or visit Facebook.com/ SWDevonRebecca

Rebecca Smith pictured at the Plymstock Wednesday Wives Group

Rebecca Smith and Sir Gary Streeter MP pictured during their visit to the Sherford Building Skills Centre

Solo sailor leaves Plymouth on world record attempt

A new solo sailing world record attempt got under way from Plymouth at the end of September.

Polish sailor Arek Pawelek departed Mayflower Marina on the outward afternoon tide, cheered on by friends, family, and supporters as he set sail to attempt to single handedly circumnavigate the globe, non-stop and unassisted in his fivemetre yacht ‘Elblag’.

Arek’s world record attempt will see the determined sailor follow the classic sea route around the three famous capes of Africa, Australia, and South America without stopping at ports and without medical or technical support. Arek’s living space on the yacht for the anticipated 300 days is less than two square metres.

The seasoned sailor will be self-sufficient on board the yacht, living on freeze-dried, vacuum-packed food and using a manual desalination pump to make drinking water.

The current world record for the smallest yacht to circumnavigate the globe was achieved by his fellow countryman

and friend Szymon Kuczynski, Skipper of the 6.36 m-long yacht ‘Atlantic Puffin’ in 2017. Szymon, who also nominated Mayflower Marina in Plymouth for his successful world record, met with Arek just before his departure in Plymouth and wished his potential world record successor sage advice and fair winds ahead of the arduous adventure.

Arek, who took up sailing in his thirties, following a naval career as a diver, has already established himself as an experienced sailor, having participated in the Sydney to Hobart and Gotland Runt races. Arek’s adventurous nature first attracted attention in 1998 when he participated in sailing across the Atlantic in a four metre-long inflatable boat.

In 2008, Arek sailed single-handedly around Cape Horn on an open RIB and, in 2016, took part in the Setka Atlantic Challenge, which involved sailing on self-built five-metre-long plywood boats from Setka to Martinique.

Arek Pawelek is expected to spend around 10-11 months on his five-metre yacht ‘Elblag’, whose name and distinct pink colour was chosen by the ‘godmother’ of the vessel, Arek’s seven-yearold daughter Julia.

Arek said: “Fewer than three hundred people have sailed single-handedly around the world, and less than one hundred sailors achieved this without stopovers or outer backing.

“People have asked why I want to sail such a small boat. I was searching for a new adventure and considered sailing the world on my 2.7 metre-long dinghy. My wife, unsurprisingly, was concerned about this and suggested I sail the world in ‘Elblag’ instead.”

Managing director of Mayflower Marina, Charles Bush, said: “We are delighted to support Arek and Elblag at Mayflower Marina ahead of this incredible record attempt. We wish Arek the best of luck and will follow his progress with great interest. We look forward to championing his safe return next summer.”

UK BREAKS

Departing Mon 20 Nov ‘23

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

 4 nights at the Warner Corton Coastal Village, Lowestoft with dinner & breakfast

 Entertainment every evening

 Entrance to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular

 Excursions to Norwich & the Norfolk Broads by coach (Horning & Potter Heigham)

5 Days by Coach only

£399

Departing Sat 25 Nov ‘23

Enjoy the magical, award-winning Christmas Market in the beautiful city of Bath! With a huge range of traders providing a variety of handmade and local Christmas offerings in chalet-style 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 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast

 Visit to Bath Christmas Market

 En-route visit to a mystery location

2 Days by Coach only

£119

Departing Fri 8 Dec ‘23

The King of Waltz, André Rieu, will return to his hometown of Maastricht in December for a magical, fun-filled and Christmas-themed afternoon! Soak up the special atmosphere, sing along to famous Christmas songs and admire the lavish winter wonderland setting.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth

 3 nights at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel in Belgium/ Germany/the Netherlands with breakfast

 André Rieu concert ticket

 Excursion to a Christmas market

Ticket upgrades available

4 Days by Coach only

£449

Photos credit Lech Trawicki

Pawelek

Dunstone Diary

By Councillor Stefan Krizanac and Councillor John Stephens

Pioneering Pollenize conservation project is launched at Sherford

Councillor John Stephens writes…..

Compared to my usual ‘Diary’ message, this month’s is less upbeat but reflects the challenges many people in our area and across the city face right now.

Recently, I have met with people in Plymstock Dunstone whose day to day lives make such a difference to others. These have included school leaders and their amazing staff, police who protect our communities, shop workers who serve and make sure their shelves are stocked with what we need, and health service and care staff who tend to the community’s medical and care needs. They devote their lives to society under increasing pressures, are often understaffed and overwhelmed by the level of need they face day in day out. I have been touched by the passion they have for what they do but also saddened by how demoralised many are by the helplessness of not being able to do everything they feel should be done for the people they are called to help, teach and serve.

Along with other teams in the city, I lead a team as part of the Plymouth Soup Run which serves our street communities every single night of the year. This involves providing a record average one hundred people each night with a hot meal, bag of food, hot and cold drink, soup, clothing, shoes, toiletries, sleeping bags and blankets and just as importantly, a chance to chat.

Those we serve include people experiencing homelessness, some are sleeping rough while others may be living in accommodation and are struggling to make ends meet. Increasingly, we meet people who do work or have managed to feed their children but not themselves. Like all of us, every individual has a narrative to their lives; sadly, for some, childhood and adult experiences can predict the desperate situation they find themselves in. For some, loss of a job, a relationship breakdown, inability to pay rent, and ill health can lead to homelessness and a feeling of abandonment and despair.

When I describe these situations, don’t think it only happens the other side of Laira Bridge; these situations happen across Plymstock. Whilst I have been privileged in our Soup Run team to serve alongside several young people who went to Goosewell School, I have also experienced the heartache of serving former pupils with soup, food and a sleeping bag.

The desperation of such a crisis is felt by those who work in social care, health, local authorities and voluntary services, seeking to find a home for those needing one and well-being and health support.

We can all hope and pray for the day Foodbanks and soup runs will not need to exist; but many people are reliant on them right now. If you have any clean sleeping bags or washable blankets going spare, please email me and I’ll be happy to collect and distribute them to soup run teams.

Likewise, though I appreciate the cost of living is affecting most people, the next time you shop, please consider donating one item into a food collection box in a supermarket. Your one added to everyone else’s donation, can make a big difference. Thank you.

Councillor Stefan Krizanac writes….

It has been another month of busy work around the ward. It has been difficult to hear the stories of some residents and their trials when they are in need of medical help.

For example, to get to see a GP for a face-to-face appointment is harder every day; hospital stays are on another level if you are elderly or live alone. One resident told me how they had to stay in hospital because there were no spaces in community care homes for recuperation that they were informed they needed. I wonder why?

The delivery of these essential services has become harder and harder in the face of swingeing cuts to local government funding over the past 13 years. It was shocking to learn that in the last decade or so, the council has lost over £700 million in funding from central government. This makes it very difficult when you aim to provide the same kind of service as you have been doing 10 years ago but with much less money. But people do come first and that is what we are trying to do as a city council to the best of our abilities.

If you would us to help you with any local issues or ideas, please contact us on John.Stephens@plymouth.gov.uk 07977 730 601 or Stefan.Krizanac plymouth.gov.uk 07813

Pollenize, the leading local conservation community interest company, has launched a new environmental project at Sherford, to make the town a beacon of biodiversity.

Combining cutting-edge technology and community engagement, the project aims to boost the diversity of plant and animal life – and serve as a national example of best practice.

Pollenize has created a biodiversity programme that enables continuous improvements to land, using a tracking tool called ‘Floradex’, built with the University of Plymouth. Harnessing people power – by working with local community volunteers – a series of ‘Bioblitz’ surveys take place to identify local flora and fauna, which are recorded in an app. Pollenize uses the data to spot any gaps in biodiversity and create tailored seed prescriptions to help the environment flourish.

The first two Bioblitz surveys have taken place at Sherford, with a group of adults and children working alongside the Pollenize team to capture 777 observations of 186 different species of plants and animals in Sherford’s Country Park.

More surveys will follow to build a full picture of the area’s ecology, before Pollenize analyses the findings and recommends how to bolster biodiversity and make Sherford even greener.

The new town of Sherford has already won awards for its approach to sustainability and work to enhance and enrich the landscape. The Sherford Consortium – a partnership between award-winning national housebuilders, Taylor Wimpey & Vistry Group, which includes Countryside Partnerships, Linden Homes and Bovis Homes – saw the potential of the project with Pollenize to take Sherford’s commitment to ecology to the next level.

This is the biggest Floradex project that Pollenize –the Plymouth-based pollinator CIC – has undertaken to date. It plans to use the results achieved at Sherford – which is one of the most ambitious residential developments in the UK – to encourage other businesses, developers and land-owners to sign up to the pioneering programme.

Owen Finnie, the co-founder of Pollenize, said: “Floradex is such an exciting programme, combining community rewilding and scientific research to protect pollinators and the planet. Not only does it offer huge potential for land-owners and developers to boost biodiversity, but it is extremely rewarding for communities to take part in citizen science and improve the environment. The project at Sherford is off to a great start and we are confident it will make the development, already known for its sustainability credentials, into a national example of biodiversity best practice.”

Paul Moran, managing director of Vistry South West, part of the Sherford Consortium, said: “As well as being one of the largest new community developments in the

South West, Sherford is also set to be one of the most ecologically diverse locations in the region.

“The town has been designed to echo and enhance the landscape, with a 500 acre country park full of woodland, wildflower meadows and wetlands, plus 170 acres of new wildlife habitats. The Pollenize project is a great opportunity to work with an innovative conservation organisation and Sherford residents to make the plentiful green space as biodiverse as possible.”

Peter Sadler, managing director of Countryside Partnerships South West, part of the Sherford Consortium, added: “Even before the first brick was laid at Sherford, over £1m had been invested in ecology initiatives and a huge amount more work and investment has followed since then – with much more to come in the years ahead.

“Sherford has already gained international recognition and awards for its approach to sustainability and we hope that the results of the Pollenize project not only make a positive difference to this community, but go one to inspire and influence others.”

Find out more about the project, the dates of forthcoming Bioblitz surveys and how to get involved at www.sherford.uk and discover more about Pollenize at www.pollenize.org.uk

Volunteers using the app to identify local flora and fauna Photos: UpArt Photography

Rosemarie is Plymouth’s newly selected Laureate of Words for 2023 to 2025

Poet and lecturer Rosemarie Corlett is Plymouth’s new Laureate of Words for 2023 to 2025.

Rosemarie was selected by public vote from a shortlist of budding laureates for her poem Blue Space.

She is a bilingual poet and associate lecturer in creative writing at Plymouth University. She has a PhD in poetry and her work has been published in Iota, Poetry Wales, Lighthouse Literary Journal and The Guardian.

Speaking about her appointment, Rosemarie said: “I’m thrilled to have been chosen as the next Plymouth Laureate of Words. I’d like to express my huge thanks to Literature Works, Plymouth Culture and The Box, as well as to all of those who voted for me.

“I’m so looking forward to celebrating our city, connecting with new people and places and showcasing creative writing over the next couple of years.”

A special event to celebrate her selection will take place at The Box at 6pm on September 27. The free event will feature readings by 2021-23 Laureate of Words Laura Horton and 2023 Plymouth Young City Laureate Mimi Jones, as well as Rosemarie Corlett’s first public reading as Plymouth Laureate of Words 2023-25.

Plymouth Laureate of Words is a creative partnership between Literature Works, Plymouth Culture and The Box.

The Laureate represents Plymouth in words, illuminating its life, culture and stories through a combination of creative writing commissions and public events.

The locally based Laureate meets the Plymouth community to inspire and encourage the sharing of stories; reflecting the voices at the heart of the city.

Rosemarie’s first published collection of poems called Flightless Bird was published by Shearsman Books in August last year.

Tickets for the celebration event can be booked at www.ticketsource.co.uk

Harriers cheque for Harbour

Plymouth Harriers Running Club has presented local Plymouth charity Harbour, with a donation of £500. The much-needed funds have been raised through club social events and activities that Plymouth Harriers have held during the past year.

Karen Eccles, chair of Plymouth Harriers said: “Our main aim as a running club is to encourage and support members of our community to improve their physical and mental wellbeing and to build their social connection with other likeminded people, regardless of age, size or ability.

“The result is increased self-esteem and confidence, a new group of friends and the feeling of belonging to a family and community. We

think it is important to support individuals and groups within the community. We chose to support Harbour because their mission ‘to empower individuals to make positive changes and live a healthy and fulfilling life’ is very similar to our own.”

Plymouth Harriers welcomes runners of all abilities and levels of experience, with qualified coaches and leaders who can help people achieve their running goals, offering something to suit everyone.

Karen and the members of the club hope that the donation will help Harbour to continue their valuable work in providing drug and alcohol services to members of the community that need

Chinese Witch

it. The charity was founded over 30 years ago and supports individuals with complex lives who struggle with alcohol or drug addiction, providing comprehensive care and a sense of community.

Sean Gray, harm reduction coordinator at Harbour said: “As well as being able to continue valued services for people who experience addiction, Plymouth Harriers have shown countless people in Plymouth that they’re in their corner. Stigma is still very much alive and well when it comes to drug and alcohol use, and Plymouth Harriers have shown its possible for anyone to challenge this.”

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Karen Eccles with Plymouth Harriers members presents the cheque to Sean Gray of Harbour

Nature boost projects unveiled as National Marine Park bid submitted

A series of ground-breaking projects to support and help vulnerable species flourish within Plymouth’s National Marine Park has been outlined as a bid for the Horizons Project to the National Lottery Heritage Fund is signed off.

As well as building on a range of existing research and nature recovery innovations, projects under the park’s ‘nature boost programme’ will support the recovery of iconic species of Plymouth Sound.

Details of the programme have been finalised and it comes as Council leader Tudor Evans signs a decision to formally submit the delivery stage bid for the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park Horizons Project to the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The council has also agreed to underwrite the project by £2 million as part of match funding support for the bid.

People will be encouraged to discover and understand species and habitats of the National Marine Park, why they are in danger and through the plans for a digital marine park, to connect and act, getting involved with practical activities join citizen science initiatives and create drivers for people to make real change.

Some of the highlights include:

Expanding biogenic reefs – these are incredible habitats that store carbon and are home to many species and act as a nursery for fish when the tide comes in. Nature’s own ecosystem engineers, the humble oyster and mussels will play a part in the park. Left undisturbed, oysters create complex structures that support several ecosystem services by providing clean water and healthy fisheries.

Native oyster populations have declined by 95 per cent in the UK since the mid-19th century due to overfishing, pollution, disease, and invasive species. This is a nature restoration project that will boost local biogenic reef habitats.

Intertidal mudflats – are submerged at high tide and exposed at low tide and are home to vast numbers of worms, bivalves and cockles buried within the mud. As the tide falls mudflats and saltmarshes marshes are exposed to the air and become a popular habitat for waterfowl, wading birds and other species. This project aims to protect and conserve breeding and feeding grounds for Little Egrets and Avocets. It will increase understanding of wading birds through surveys and citizen science. Proposals include creating suitable access and viewing points, as well as engagement activities and a mud festival! Support recovery of iconic species in the Sound by developing robust breeding protocols and working to boost species numbers to reduce

vulnerability and increase climate resilience. These projects will improve the quantity of available food supplies by careful breeding of target species to support vitally important species. The aim is to develop breeding protocols for up to five species which are important not just to Plymouth but the South West of England. These are thornback ray, spiny and short snouted sea horses.

Community Boost for Iconic Species – the best nature boost ideas often come from the people and communities who live, work, relax and play in, on, under or around the National Marine Park. Community Boost projects will aim to kick-start small-scale projects that deliver nature boost activities supporting a community-led approach. It will reflect what people really want, and connects

Forum’s farewell benefits local organisations

minds and actions of local people promoting health and wellbeing.

Other aspects include developing interesting, interactive opportunities for people to experience these projects. This includes films, including ones that can be shown in the immersive dome and time-lapse, that will tell the story about the ‘Iconic species of the Sound’, their habitats and the role they play in the marine environment.  There will also be extensive citizen science initiatives to help develop new skills and foster a sense of inclusion, co-stewardship and connection. This could involve direct actions such as helping to remove nonnative species like the Pacific Oyster and seeding activities to help create biogenic reefs.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “This is an extraordinary programme designed to reverse some of the long term damage man has done to its environment and it has been created in such a brilliant way. For example, we help oysters to flourish again – they help us by helping to filter the water.  I love it!  The passion, the careful thinking, the extensive conversations with charities and organisations here in Plymouth to make these projects come alive and appeal to everyone is inspiring.”

“This is just a snapshot of the National Marine Park’s ambition for nature. The offshoots for people, new skills, new passion and new pride in Plymouth are immeasurable.”

Councillor Andy Lugger, Leader of the Opposition said: “Nature is a fundamental part of what our PSNMP is about, but importantly in our park in the sea the connection between people and nature is key. This is why this programme is so pioneering, we are developing ways for nature and people to not just co-exist but to deliver programmes that mean both people and wildlife will benefit. We always said the PSNMP would build on what is already great in Plymouth and together we will find ways to do even better, what a great example of this approach.”

Seagrass meadows

The National Marine Park is located within the Plymouth Sound and Estuaries Marine Protected Area (MPA), Plymouth City Council is a member of the Tamar Estuaries Consultative Forum (TECF) and through this management partnership work with other statutory bodies to manage the estuary sustainably. The NMP will work with TECF and stakeholders to help protect and enhance the MPA and deliver its Management Plan.

Roger Maslin, chief executive of the Ocean Conservation Trust said: “Seagrass is one of the most important habitats in the Ocean and Plymouth Sound has some of the best seagrass meadows in Europe but sadly so much has been lost over the last 100 years.

“We are delighted to be able to continue working with the University of Plymouth, Finance Earth and Plymouth City Council in developing a seagrass-based nature credit, which will help fund much-needed protection and restoration of this marine plant that keeps on giving.”

Members of the Plymstock Forum committee have presented cheques to several local organisations as part of their winding-up procedure.

The Forum was well known over the past 24 years, for running community debating meetings in the area. In addition to this, they organised the popular annual Plymstock Festival and recently managed the production and completion of the Plymstock history tapestries which can be

seen in the computer room at Plymstock library.

A total of more than £3000 was issued to the groups attending the presentation from the winding-up of the organisation.

The Forum committee had decided it could no longer continue its work without a big influx of new committee members. Unfortunately, this support was not forthcoming so it was decided to share the funds among local organisations and

charities. Those receiving funds were Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Beckly Centre, Plymstock Road Runners, Friends of Downhorn Park, Radford Arboretum Group and Gables Dogs and Cats home.

The Plymstock Forum ommittee regretted the closure of the organisation but it was pleased other local groups had benefitted.

The photograph shows members of the committee and groups receiving funds.

Councillor Kate Ewert, Cornwall Councillor for Rame Peninsula and St Germans added: “The breadth of the Boost Nature programme is extraordinary and I am really excited by the way these projects are not just about helping some of this area’s most threatened sea species, but making sure people on both sides of the Tamar and beyond get to learn about some of the amazing marine life on their door steps. I am particularly keen to see what comes out of the community led projects.”

Photo: David John Peake

Let me paint you a picture. We’ve had a great long weekend down in the far west of Cornwall. It’s around 7.30pm and we’re all set to head back home.

Our two girls, a three year old and a baby, are in the backseats of the car all prepared for bed as we drive home on what should be a straightforward hour and a half journey. The hope is they sleep for the whole way home.

So far, so good. We’re just out of Penzance and the girls have dropped off into what appears to be a deep sleep. We’re well aware there are roadworks for a large section of the main road in Cornwall but as we approach them all is quiet and calm in the car.

Then suddenly the baby wakes up. She’s not happy either and is crying out. Still, we’re moving steadily through the roadworks and somehow the three year old is still fast asleep.

As long as we keep moving we’ll be fine. The motion of the car is soothing the baby and she’ll be asleep before too long.

That’s when we hit the sign that is just what I didn’t want to see. Diversion. We’re led around the roadworks to a new part of the road. What’s worse the traffic ahead is stopped and we’re left in the dark waiting for the road to clear.

Still waiting.

Some 10 minutes pass by and at this point

D ealing with life’s diversions

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross

the baby is awake again and really crying.

The kind of cry which is impossible for parents to ignore. But there is nothing we can do, we’re on an A road in the middle of nowhere knowing the traffic could move at any point.

As the driver, my stress levels are very high at this point. Is the road closed? Has there been an accident? Will we be waiting here all night? Somehow the three year old is still asleep despite the increasing protestations of her sister.

Finally the traffic starts to move! Right we’ll be home in around an hour so as long we’re moving the baby should fall back asleep and we’ll be fine. 20 minutes further down the road another diversion! At this point we’re taken off around some dark streets near Bodmin and I’m trying to drive as steadily as I can for the, now sleeping again, children in the back. Balancing this with driving as quick as is allowed to get home as soon as we can before they wake up!

How long is this diversion going to be? How much time will it add to our journey?

Rhythms Plymouth

Finally we wind our way back in to Bodmin and I know exactly where we are and once again how to get home.

The rest of the journey passes without any more incident and we get across the Tamar Bridge and we’re almost home. The journey that should have been 90 minutes has managed to take just shy of three hours.

Somewhat unbelievably we reach yet another set of roadworks as we approach Manadon Roundabout. At this point we’re so close to home I’m past caring and mercifully the girls are still asleep and ready to be transferred to their respective beds.

This situation got me thinking just how difficult it is when plans change and our lives become diverted off the course we thought we were on.

I didn’t handle the diversions especially well and found the drive far more stressful than I needed to. In life, as in the car, losing the control of where we’re heading is a real challenge. Having circumstances conspire to take us along a route we don’t really want to be travelling isn’t easy.

Giving up the control of my life to a God who knows and loves me is a very real help in every season of life.

Trusting that even in the twists and turns of unwanted diversions in life God has good plans for me and is with me is a profound comfort.

That is true for the people I have the privilege of interviewing on Life Stories on Cross Rhythms Plymouth.

Recent interviews have included guests who found themselves caught up in substance addiction, faced mental health challenges, had to deal with the loss of a child and many other ways in which life didn’t go in the direction they would have wanted.

The common thing for them all is that they have known the presence of Jesus with them in all these difficult times and they have come out the other side.

You can listen to all our Life Stories interviews on the listen again pages at crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth or watch them on the Cross Rhythms Plymouth YouTube channel on youtube.com.

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

Student scoops top award with Tinside Lido image

A commercial photography student at Arts University Plymouth has won a prestigious award for his image of the iconic Tinside Lido.

Matthew Marshall, who is 24, won the Single Image category in the EIZO Student Awards. His photograph, ‘Tinside Lido Prepares for Summer’ embodied the competition’s theme of ‘colour’ offering a vivid portrayal of a painter diligently adding stripes to the empty art deco outdoor pool.

The EIZO UK Student Awards are an annual competition that provides students studying photographic and filmmaking courses in the UK an opportunity to showcase their talent and develop real life experience of working to a brief and deadline that will give them a head start in the creative industry.

The competition culminated in an awards ceremony at the EIZO UK headquarters in Ascot, where Matthew learned he had won the category.

Matthew said: “I was so surprised to have won. The other finalists’ work was so

good that I was happy to just be selected but it’s incredible to have the affirmation that the work I’m creating is appreciated. The awards ceremony was an excellent opportunity to see all of the finalists’ work in one place and being able to speak with the industry professionals about my work was a unique experience. I got to network with the other finalists too which was great!”

Originally from Plymouth, Matthew decided to stay in the city to study at Arts University Plymouth. “I originally delayed going to university due to life commitments, but I made the decision that if I didn’t go into higher education at this point in my life then I probably never would! I chose Arts University Plymouth because I was impressed by the facilities on offer and the quality of the photography tutors on my programme. Their experience and knowledge has helped drive my ambition to achieve in the two years I’ve been here.”

“The arts university is a great place for creatives to have the freedom to express themselves through their practice and it’s allowed me to meet people from completely different walks of life that I now consider to be friends.

“My favourite thing about Arts University Plymouth is the diversity it promotes. This isn’t just about the people that attend, it’s the different responses to the same brief that interests me. You gain an understanding from people’s work about the type of person they are and I think the university gives them the confidence to explore what values they hold dear to them.”

TRAIN CANCELLATIONS ‘SIMPLY UNACCEPTABLE’ SAYS MP

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard has described the high rate of train cancellations at Plymouth station as ‘simply unacceptable,’ after it was revealed that 1 in 20 services were cancelled over the summer period.

Analysis of National Rail data, collated by On Time Trains, revealed that in the last 12 weeks at Plymouth station:

• 5% of trains were cancelled – equal to 1 in 20 services.

• Weekend cancellations ranked higher at 8%, with less than half of train services on time over the weekend (45%).

• Across the week, over 1 in 10 services (13%) were 10 or more minutes late.

Plymouth station, which sees a footfall of over 5,600

passengers each day, ranks in the bottom 500 stations since June 2023 for performance.

The MP has urged Ministers to sit down with the rail unions to end the strikes which have been causing disruption to train schedules this summer.

He has also been campaigning to stop Plymouth train station ticket office from closure after the government pushed forwards with a consultation to shut nearly all rail ticket offices across the country.

Luke Pollard said:  “While these figures are not as bad as elsewhere on the network, cancelling one in 20 trains is simply unacceptable for people in Plymouth who are already being priced off the railways despite services remaining slow and unreliable.”

Dave Simpson

Matthew’s winning image

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City College Plymouth, in partnership with Kier Construction, one of the UK’s leading construction and infrastructure services companies, has celebrated the successful opening of a significant initiative designed to tackle the skills requirements in the city’s construction sector.

The launch of the Hard Hat Ready Training & Learning Centre took place in September at the college’s Picquet site in Devonport and was attended by Kier’s supply chain partners and key stakeholders from the construction sector.

The partnership between City College Plymouth and Kier, was developed to bridge the skills gap in the construction sector. The initiative was a direct response to the demand for skilled workers in Plymouth and the wider region. Kier’s ongoing and completed projects in the city include Intercity House and ‘The Park,’ Plymouth City Council’s new crematorium, The Hard Hat Ready Training & Learning Centre will offer a free, fiveweek Level 1 Diploma in the Construction and Built Environment, providing essential skills to adults who are interested in pursuing a career in construction.

The diploma can also transform the lives of unemployed individuals and ex-offenders by equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in the city’s construction sector.

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New construction training centre will boost skills development

building a robust workforce for the construction sector and is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality education and addressing the skills gap in the construction industry. But it goes beyond that. It exemplifies our unwavering civic duty to the city of Plymouth.

“Our partnership with Kier Construction not only bridges the skills gap but also champions social mobility. By offering a free, five-week course in construction skills, we are empowering adults, including unemployed individuals and ex-offenders, with the essential skills to embark on fulfilling careers in the vibrant construction sector.

“This initiative aligns with our core belief that education is the key to opportunity, and by doing so, we are strengthening our city’s social fabric. We are creating a pathway for those who seek to rebuild their lives and contribute to the betterment of Plymouth. This is our civic duty in action - enhancing the life chances of our community members and forging a brighter future for Plymouth through education and social mobility.”

Doug Lloyd, regional director for Kier, added:

Pictured at the opening of the new training centre (from left) Doug LLoyd, regional director for Kier; Jackie Grubb, chief executive of City College and Lance Chatfield, executive of Technical Innovation at City College

painting and decorating, wall and floor tiling, and plumbing, the course will also provide essential work experience opportunities.

Additionally, students enrolled in the course will have the opportunity to obtain their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, a vital credential for accessing employment opportunities within the construction sector.

Jackie Grubb, chief executive of City College Plymouth, highlighted the profound impact of the centre on both the construction sector and the broader community, emphasising the college’s civic duty and commitment to advancing social mobility in Plymouth.

She said: “The Hard Hat Ready Training & Learning Centre is a significant step towards

“As a leading construction company with a longstanding presence in the city, we recognise the importance of investing in a skilled workforce for the future. The Hard Hat Ready course will provide benefits for those looking to upskill or begin a career in construction, as well as our wider supply chain and the local community.

“We are excited to be part of this initiative and to continue our partnerships with City College Plymouth and Building Plymouth, which provide opportunities for individuals to thrive in the construction industry.”

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Plymouth u3a celebrates group’s 25th anniversary

Plymouth u3a has celebrated its 25th anniversary with a promotion Day in the city’s iconic Guildhall.

When the event was conceived some six months earlier, no-one could have foreseen the almost biblical downpour that would greet them on the day.

To compound the problems, a parade to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the granting of the Freedom of the City to the Royal Navy had to be relocated from the Piazza to the Great Hall in the Guildhall. So, a throng of sailors, Royal Marines, VIPs and onlookers had to access the event through the foyer where the u3a display was located. To the great credit of all concerned, it all passed with enormous cooperation and good humour.

Plymouth’s Lord Mayor had been enrolled as an honorary member of the u3a just a week previously and this was to be his first meeting with the group. Sadly, he was taken ill and had to cancel his attendance, so his place was taken by the Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Kathy Watkin. She very kindly agreed to meet the very first chairman of the u3a, Brian Saber, to offer her congratulations on the group’s achievement.

A good number of visitors attended the event, despite the really unpleasant weather conditions. Several signed up for membership on the spot, many more left with an invitation to attend the forthcoming General Meeting. Representatives from another group, Moor’s Edge u3a, were also in attendance to meet residents from the North of the city who might be interested in what the organisation has to offer.

With more than 770 members, encompassing some 75 different interest groups, Plymouth u3a offers something for almost everyone. Membership is restricted to those who are retired, semi-retired or who have finished raising a family. New members are always welcome and more information can be found at www.plymouthu3a.org.uk

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Oreston Bowls Club have raised funds for the Chestnut Appeal in memory of their members who passed away at the beginning of the year. A Memorial Cup Day was staged by the club in memory of Tony Hill and the event raised £200 for the charity. The club has decided to hold a similar event each year to benefit different charities. The club, which meets at Dean Cross Road in Plymstock between April and October welcomes ladies and gentlemen of all ages and abilities to take part in outdoor bowling. For more information visit www.orestonbc.co.uk

Solar panels power for car park

Plymouth City Council has installed over 200 new solar panels on the upper roof deck of the Theatre Royal car park to help catch rays to be transformed into green energy.

The panels – 222 in total – will power the entire car park plus provide some excess which goes back into the Plymouth grid.

The total installation can produce up to 94kWp per year, saving up to 17 tonnes of CO2 emissions a year; the equivalent to an average petrol car driving from Lands End to John O’Groats and back again 47 times.

It follows on from the currently-underconstruction first phase of the Civic District Energy Scheme which shares low carbon resources to heat, as well as partially powering, buildings around the Civic Square.

In time, the panels will also help to power new heat pumps installed at the Guildhall and the Council House, either directly through a connection, or virtually by using smart monitoring to balance the solar electricity produced with the electricity consumed by the heat pumps.

It’s all part of the council’s bid to decarbonise council buildings, reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and ensure that it meets the target of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “This is yet another example of where we have used

innovation to reduce our carbon footprint.

“As one of city’s top tier organisations, it is our responsibility to lead the way with schemes like this and set an example of what can be achieved in the journey towards carbon neutrality.”

The Theatre Royal car park currently has over 550 spaces and already has an electric vehicle

Rules on dogs in cemeteries to be eased

Dogs on leads will be allowed to accompany residents into Plymouth’s cemeteries from later this year.

The change in policy, for the sites at Weston Mill and Efford, is the biggest change to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) designed to reduce dog fouling.

The PSPO, which covers dog control as well as enforcement options around fouling, is in place to balance the needs of dog owners with other people who also use the parks, open spaces and sports facilities in Plymouth.

Most of these restrictions have been in place since 2008, under the old Dog Control Orders and similar restrictions are in place in most local authorities across the country.

station with two charging points and more planned. The installation of the solar panels is on the upper deck in 50 bays that are seldom used by drivers.

The scheme was funded through the ERDF EU Interreg as well from the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Vital medical aid leaves Plymouth for Ukraine

PUMA – Plymouth Ukraine Medical Aid – will be crossing Europe in October with one of the West Country’s largest medical aid convoys since the start of the war.

Plymouth Ukraine Medical Aid’s ninth trip is led by local mum Ali Piper and accompanied by Dr Jamie Fulton from Derriford Hospital. Theywill be taking an ambulance and three 4x4s all filled with supplies, funded through the kindness of local people.

These will be providing aid for life saving treatments in some of the worst affected areas of Ukraine. The group will be driving to the east of Kyiv. PUMA will be going to areas freed from Russian occupation where we will be handing over the ambulance and 4x4s to the Emergency Medics.

The ambulance will be used as a minor operating theatre as well as rescuing injured defenders and civilians including children. This will provide vital treatment and transport to Kyiv hospitals in those most critical moments. The ambulance is Plymouth Ukraine Medical Aid‚Äôs largest ever purchased. Ali Piper said: “We are so grateful to everyone who has made this dream a reality. Not only are we able to take the ambulance and 4x4s but vital medical supplies to support other hospitals in eastern Ukraine.

“PUMA want to thank everyone who has helped make this possible. We know with your help Plymouth Ukraine Medical Aid’s next trip will be even bigger so we can help save more lives,” added Ali.

Earlier this year, Plymouth City Council asked residents about a number of proposed changes to the order. Just under 2,000 responses were received, with 73 per cent identifying as dog owners themselves.

The consultation asked whether dogs, historically excluded from cemeteries, should be allowed in these areas on leads. Exactly 75 per cent of respondents agreed and so this restriction will be altered.

Residents were also asked whether the number of dogs allowed to be walked by one person at one time should exceed six. Nearly 90 percent of residents said that it should not so this will be added to the PSPO.

In the current order, dog owners must keep their dogs on a lead within the marked playing area of a sports pitch but as part of the consultation, residents were asked whether dogs should be excluded from pitches altogether. Results show that 54 per cent of respondents objected to this change and so it was not implemented.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: “Firstly I’d like to say a massive thank you to all residents who fed back on the PSPO proposals.

“This order is designed to stamp out dog fouling; something everyone dislikes, so to have so many people fill in the consultation has given us a really good idea of the feeling out there.

“We always said that none of the proposals were set in stone, so it’s been really good to get such a wide range of feedback to the initial ideas.

“On a more personal note, I’m pleased to be able to relax the rules around dogs in our cemeteries – I’m sure that for many residents, taking their pets to visit and remember loved ones will be of real comfort.”

The new rules will come into force when the PSPO renewed on October 20.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve pictured with the solar panels on top of the Theatre Royal car park

PUMA is now focusing on its winter and Christmas appeal to provide medical aid, warmth and gifts to those in need in Ukraine. For information on how to get involved visit PUMA (Plymouth Ukraine Medical Aid) on Facebook.

PUMA’s Ali Piper with youngsters in Ukraine

New home for Chestnut Unit

Derriford Hospital’s Chestnut Unit, which provides urology services, will soon move to its new home with access to extra space and state-of-the-art treatment rooms.

Work is underway on the Derriford Hospital site to redevelop the healthcare estate and make it fit for the future. The scheme of work, ‘Building for the Future’ will take place in a phased way over the next 10 years and will involve new developments as well as relocation of services, creating more space to care.

As part of this site restructure, the Chestnut Unit will be moving to the first floor of a brand new, purpose-built modular building in front of the maternity unit, near the multistorey car park.

The new Chestnut Urology Investigation Unit in the modular build is currently under construction and is due to open later this year. Urology is a surgical speciality, covering the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate and male reproductive organs.

Deputy care group manager, Fiona Peck, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for the department and the design of the building will support improved patient pathways.

“The services offered in Urology have increased over time and the new location provides sufficient space to significantly increase the level of activity and number of patients who can be treated.”

Unit manager, Tracey Whittingham, said: “Following years of planning and preparation, it is exciting to see this project transform into a tangible building. The difference to our staff and patients alike is going to be huge, being able to advance the Urology Service in the South West for all.

“We are so grateful that the Trust has

believed in our vision. Paul Hunter-Campbell, Urology Service line director and Anna Wilson, lead cancer nurse practitioner in Urology, have worked tirelessly for a number of years to make this dream a reality.

I can’t wait for the future and for the change this will bring to our service, whilst improving the experience and quality of life for our patients.”

Urology will continue to work closely with the Chestnut Appeal, a charity founded at Derriford Hospital in 1999. The new unit will include space for a charity office and the appeal will continue to raise funds for the very latest equipment and comforts for patients which are beyond what is offered on the NHS, making the unit the very best it can be.

This includes funding for training a psychosexual counsellor, offering a dedicated service for male continence, funding pioneering equipment and technology to be

housed in this new space. There will also be a conference room where our support group can meet each month.

“This purpose-built unit is going to be amazing for anyone who needs to access urology services, in particular men with prostate, testicular or penile cancers,” said Lesley-Ann Simpson, chief executive officer at the Chestnut Appeal.

“The unit will be giving men gold standard care in the South West, where it will be possible, even the norm, to have a consultation, scan, biopsy and results the very same day. I can’t wait for this service to be up and running, and continuing to strive to be the best we can be.”

For more information on the work of the charity, visit www.chestnutappeal.org.uk In addition to the benefits for Urology patients, the move will release space on Level 7 of Derriford Hospital for an expansion to the Endoscopy Unit.

Green Tourism Award for Destination Plymouth

The tourism body for Britain’s Ocean City, Destination Plymouth, is celebrating another sustainability success with the Green Tourism Bronze Award.

Richard Stevens, managing director, Go South West and chair of the Destination Plymouth Board, accept the Green Tourism Bronze Award on behalf of the team.  Green Tourism promotes greener ways for businesses and organisations to operate and advises on adopting a smart, sustainable outlook from top to bottom.  Its certification programme recognises the commitment of tourism businesses that are actively working to become more sustainable –an ethos that Plymouth, as a leader in sustainable tourism, has long championed.

Destination Plymouth, a private/public sector partnership, is one of more than 50 businesses across Britiain’s Ocean City’s tourism, leisure, cultural, heritage and hospitality sectors to have signed up for the Green Tourism programme, and its work to support businesses across the city in becoming accredited has been progressing since February 2022.

Those taking part receive free expert support to help them reach sustainability goals and gain the internationally-recognised Green Tourism Standard, with many already accredited with gold, silver or bronze awards. The programme includes a series of webinars with Green Tourism showing the benefits of enhancing sustainability practices to attract the rapidly expanding, green-minded tourism and corporate events sector.

Destination Plymouth also ran programmes with 40 businesses to provide ‘Green Edge’ customer service training as well as ‘Carbon footprint’ training and low carbon assessments with SWMAS.

Amanda Lumley, Destination Plymouth’s chief executive, said: “The fact that these awards are recognised worldwide as a sign of operating in a good, environmentally-friendly way is vitally important for our reputation. And we’re thrilled with this achievement.

“But we can’t rest on our laurels and the work goes on as we continue on our green journey city-wide.  We’re encouraging as many businesses as possible to get involved because as each individual business benefits by becoming more environmentally-friendly and eco-conscious, the reputation of the whole city and surrounding area is enhanced as a sustainable destination. It’s a win-win.”

Helplines

Artist’s impression of the new Chestnut Unit

Plans to plant ‘microforests’ across Plymouth

A new social enterprise has pledged to plant 96 unique ‘microforests’ at schools throughout Plymouth and surrounding areas.

Societree wants to create a lasting legacy that not only inspires the next generation by planting microforests, which have incredible environmental benefits, but also by supplying free books to every child who takes part.

Societree is inviting companies and organisations to join its mission by sponsoring a school or education provider and funding the creation of a microforest - investing their corporate social responsibility budgets in a sustainable way with environmental and educational benefits.

Microforests are literally small, dense forests that are a mixture of trees and plants that produce remarkable biodiversity for their size.

As part of the package, the children receive two years of free books, based on the work of microforest pioneer Dr Akira Miyawaki. The book series, entitled My Wacky Forest, is centred around the main character Mushi, who is a fun-guy!

Societree has named the initiative Project 96and is inspired by the late Queen who died aged 96, carrying on her vision of a ‘Green Canopy’. Two microforests have already been planted as part of a pilot scheme at Mount Wise Primary School and the YMCA Discovery College in Honicknowle, linked to Manadon Vale Primary School.

While Societree expects most of its funding to come from company sponsorship anybody interested in supporting its plans is welcome. Visit www.societree.uk/ to find out more.

Co-founder Steve Warren-Brown said: “Through our pilot projects, we have already planted hundreds of trees and given away hundreds of books and the effects it’s had on the children has been overwhelming.

“The smiles prove that kids love nature, and to

know that these micro-forests will continue to do educational, social and environmental good as they grow is a wonderful feeling. The planting days are fantastic and reinforce the need to get this done. Every school should have its own ‘My Wacky Forest!

The environmental effects of microforests are well-documented. Evidence shows they are incredibly efficient at sequestering carbon, they are significantly more diverse and they can grow up to 10 times more quickly, meaning you can have real generational impacts. Add to this the potential to reduce air temperature and to remove pollutants and you really do have a ‘Superlung’.

“It is not just the environmental benefits that interest us. The children get free books, which are educational and fun, and we have all read about the benefits of being outdoors and its impact on wellbeing. These projects impact on a multi-

Advertise to over 21,000 homes in Plympton and Plymstock

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layered level and really do have huge potential which we are of course looking at recording and continuing to develop”

“Whilst our initial aim is to plant the 96 schools as part of Project 96, we would love to think that this may inspire others to get involved..why not aim to plant one in or on behalf of every school in England?”

Societree, a Community Interest Company, has long-term ambitions to build a greener, more sustainable future in as many different communities, starting with the planting of the 96 microforests.

Societree’s Board of Directors is made up of Steve Warren-Brown, founder and managing director of locally-based YGS Landscapes, Adam King, Steve Evans and Nick Sprague. To find out more about Societree and how to get involved visit www.societree.uk/

The Plympton and Plymstock edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

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Youngsters at Mount Wise Primary School having fun after planting their microforest Photo: John Allen