Plymouth Chronicle Plympton & Plymstock October 2021 by Cornerstone Vision

Chronicle Plymouth

September 2021

The Royal British Legion is encouraging Plymouth families to join the Poppy Run For details See Page 3

# PLYMOUTH TOGETHER Students at Plympton Academy and Hele’s School have celebrated their A level resuls For details See Page 10

Plympton & Plymstock

The Box has announced the winners of a competition to name their woolly mammoth See Page 22

ALSO INSIDE: • Dial the Experts • Cross Rhythms • Local news and Experience views • Useful numbers

And they’re off! Thousands of spectators flocked to Sherford on September 6 to watch the start of Stage Two of the Tour of Britain cycle race. A Lead-Out Parade with local youngsters, cycling instructors, key workers and a women’s cycling group got the race off to a great start in the sun • Story and pictures - See page 13

LANDLORDS ARE YOU UP TO DATE WITH CURRENT LEGISLATION? Book your 1 hour free consultation 01752 407774 | www.plymouthestates.co.uk

2 October 2021

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Steep rise in COVID cases in Plymouth Plymouth has been listed as an Enhanced Response Area (ERA) by the Government, following a steep rise in the number of COVID-19 cases.

The ERA also includes Devon, Torbay, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The number of positive cases in Plymouth has continued to be higher than the national average over the past few months. At the time of going to print, we are seeing around 150 new cases each day, which means our case rate per 100,000 population is around 435. We are also seeing an increase in the number of COVID-related hospital admissions, particularly among younger adults (many of whom have not been vaccinated). Derriford Hospital has declared a ‘critical incident’ due to the pressures on its services, partly caused by the rise in COVID-19 cases, as well as a higher than average number of emergency department patients and other factors. They are also seeing a rise in the number of pregnant women being admitted, which is worrying as catching COVID while pregnant

can be extremely dangerous for both the mother and the baby. While being listed as an ERA does not mean there are additional legal restrictions on Plymouth, it is a sobering reminder that COVID-19 has not gone away. Our high case numbers, together with the number of people being admitted to hospital, are now in the national public eye and everyone is being strongly advised to act carefully and responsibly. If you haven’t already been vaccinated or you’ve not yet had your second dose please do this as soon as you can. Getting a vaccine means you are less likely to become ill and have less chance of spreading the virus to others who may be more vulnerable than you are. There are many locations in the city where you can get your vaccination and it really is the best defence against COVID-19. Remember, though, that it does not stop transmission or illness completely, even if you have been double-jabbed so everyone should stay vigilant.

Please help to stop the virus spreading by continuing to wear face coverings indoors, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport, washing your hands often and meeting outdoors when you can (or letting fresh air in if meeting inside). Lateral flow tests are widely available to take at home and will help identify if you have the virus without realising. Test regularly and, if your result is positive (or if you have any symptoms, no matter how mild), isolate immediately and get a PCR test. The last 18 months have tested all of us and we are grateful to everybody for their immense efforts in helping to protect friends, families and others from the virus. Together we have achieved so much. Let’s carry on being careful to reduce the spread of this highly infectious disease in Plymouth and make sure these collective efforts are not wasted in the weeks and months to come.

By Dr Ruth Harrell

Director of Public Health for Plymouth

Get your COVID-19 test this week The Council is continuing to take its mobile testing site on a mini road trip to hand out free COVID-19 testing kits, for people without symptoms.

The team will again be visiting busy parts of the city to make it as easy as possible to pick up a kit and to get a test. The upcoming dates and locations are: • Tuesday 14 September: Aldi Stonehouse • Wednesday 15 September: Granby Way • Thursday 16 September: Frankfort Gate • Sunday 19 September: Barbican Leisure Park You can also pick up home testing kits from

libraries, but tests themselves will not take place at these locations. The mobile locations are in addition to the site at Place de Brest in the city centre, which is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm, offering assisted testing and handing out home testing kits. All of the city’s pharmacies also stock the testing kits or you can order them online or through 119, to be delivered to your home. For more information visit www.plymouth. gov.uk/gettested.

Where to get your vaccine jab

If you haven’t had your COVID-19 vaccination yet, or you’re due your second jab, you can get one at Home Park or the Council’s mobile vaccine van – and you don’t need an appointment or NHS number. The mobile van will be at Frankfort Gate, in the city centre, every Thursday in September between 10am and 3pm. (Only the Pfizer vaccine will be available.) Walk-in sessions will also be available at these locations: • Tuesday 14 September: Aldi Stonehouse (mobile van), 10am to 3pm (Pfizer only) • Wednesday 15 September: Granby Way (mobile van), 10am to 3pm (Pfizer only) • Wednesday 15 September: Home Park, 8.30am to 7pm (Pfizer and Moderna) • Friday 17 September: Home Park, 8.30 to 7pm (Pfizer and Moderna)

CHANGES TO SELF-ISOLATION The Government has made changes to the COVID-19 self-isolation rules.

Anyone who has received both vaccinations will no longer have to isolate if identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive. This applies to adults who have had both jabs at least 14 days before the contact and to under 18 year olds. If you haven’t been fully vaccinated, you will still need to self-isolate if you are identified as the close contact of a positive case, unless you are under 18. The new rules mean many people can get back to the things they love. At present, almost 80 per cent of the over-16 UK population are double-jabbed, with over 168,500 in Plymouth having received both doses. But many still have not. Double-vaccinated health and care workers who are close contacts of cases may return to work, provided they have had a negative PCR test. They will need to take daily lateral flow tests for 10 days as a precaution. For more information, go to: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19.

can check the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth HOW TO KEEP You on the Council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/COVID-19. The information on this page was correct at the time of going to UP-TO-DATE NOTE: press on September 9.

Out and About Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

Journeys from Plymouth Until Nov 14 The latest exhibition at Ford Park Cemetery’s Visitor Centre is Journeys from Plymouth, which looks at how local people went out into the world to explore either on military service or to make their fortunes. The exhibition is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10.30am t0 3.30pm and from 12.30pm to 3.30pm at weekends.

St Luke’s Hospice fundraiser Tour de Moor returns in October

Tour de Moor Oct 10 The Tour de Moor being challenge in aid of St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth returns to the rugged wilderness of Dartmoor in October. The popular event offers cyclists an adrenalinpacked adventure over the hill-filled, 52km mixed terrain route of mud, sweat and gears for those aged 12 and over. Shorter courses available for young ones and families. Register at www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tour-de-moorregistration-page

Circus Extreme Sept 10 to 26 Circus Extreme returns to Central Park with a brand new death-defying show! A one-ofa-kind performance, that has been years in the making and features some of the most talented performers in the world. All housed in a climate controlled, socially distanced COVID secure theatre style big top. Merging modern and contemporary styles with extreme stunts and classic clown escapades, audiences will be thrilled by the jam-packed Circus Extreme with show-stopping performances. For a discount call 0203 375 3970 or online with Ticketmaster and quote BIKES. Union Street Party Sept 12 Union Street is closed for one day a year to hold a magical family friendly party. It was first started by Stonehouse Action volunteers (now Nudge) who just rocked up to a side street with a bag of food shopping, a table and some bunting. Now in its 12th year, it has grown into a massive street party that celebrates Stonehouse and showcases Plymouth’s local talent and organisations. Food, music and fun from 12 noon to 4pm. Tom Jones in Central Park Sept 18 One of Britain’s best-loved entertainers Sir Tom Jones has sold over 100 million records in a career spanning more then five decades. With over thirty-five Top 40 hits in the UK, including ‘It’s Not Unusual’, ‘Sexbomb’ and ‘Delilah’, don’t miss this chance to see Tom Jones performing live in Plymouth. Details www.beeyay.com Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival Sept 18 and 19 Seafood lovers are in for a treat as Plymouth Seafood Festival returns to The Barbican and Sutton Harbour. Organised by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, this free festival is a vibrant celebration of the incredible sustainably caught fresh fish and seafood on offer in Britain’s Ocean City. There will be plenty of fun activities for children to get involved with too, throughout the two days,

there’s something for everyone. Stalls will line Quay Square and The Parade, selling delicious fresh dishes to enjoy on the day, as well as some special treats to take away. Soak up the festival atmosphere with some refreshments and live music, with sea-shanty bands who will be entertaining the crowds during the weekend.

Adelaide Park Fun Day Sept 18 Event features stalls, music, food, dance and spoken word with support from Nudge Community Builders, Plymouth Hope Football Club, Royal Adelaide Art and Yoga, Oasis Project and food by Jabulani 2pm to 5pm. Funded by Mayflower 400. The Big Doggy Day Out Fete Sept 19 Go along to Mount Edgcumbe for a day of family fun with pooches, street food, an array of exciting activities and more than 25 exhbitprs offering pet products. The event also features workshops, talks and much more making it a jam-packed day for dogs and humans of all ages. Activities on the day include Have-a-go agility, Paws for Talent show, fun scent game, canine olympics and photo pet booth. There will also be a fun charity dog show with proceeds going to Refuge4Pets. For ticket details and

Join the 2021 Poppy Run!

Photo: Matt Alexander

Good Food ands Craft Market Oct 3 and Nov 7 Royal William Yard from 10am to 3pm. Located on the Green, Main Street and inside the Melville Building, the popular market attracts some of the region’s top artisan makers as well as leading local food and drink producers and vendors.

further information visit www.adoggydayout. co.uk

Charity Ball Oct 16 Fundraiser for Dartmoor Zoological Society at Boringdon Park Golf Club featuring live music from Joey The Lips, charity raffle and auction hosted by David Fitzgerald. Three course meal and drink on arrival. Starts at 6.30pm. Tickets online at dartmoorzoo.beaconforms.com/ form/1d6e8022

An Evening with Phillippa Hanna Sept 21 Live in concert at Hope Baptist Church, Peverell Park Road 7.30pm. The internationally acclaimed performer is a rarity in the UK music industry, bridging the elusive gap between gospel, pop and country music. An evening with Philippa brings together storytelling and entertainment in a way which people of all ages, from all backgrounds can enjoy. Tickets hopebaptist. churchsuite.co.uk/events/tsn2ieto

Bonfire Night Nov 5 Spectacular bonfire and fireworks display on The Hoe.

The Weekender Festival 2021 Sept 25 and 26 Staged at Newnham Park, Plympton the two day event will feature more than 20 acts, a whole host of local talent, cocktails and a funfair. It will feature the best in underground electronic music and commercial dance over a jam-packed weekend. With the legendary Pete Tong, Wilkinson and globe trotter Ben Nicky on headline, while Casa showcases the likes of Eli Brown, Bart Skils, and Danny Howard. Joel Corry, the man behind the current UK No 1 single is joined by fellow chart topping stars 220 Kid, Franky Wah, and Nathan Dawe. For details visit www.theweekenderfestival.com

Illuminate Nov 25 to 28 The spectacular Illuminate light festival, will once again transform Royal William Yard through light art installations and projection mapping. Created by local and international artists, tech designers and students, the festival promises to deliver an inspiring, immersive experience which will delight visitors of all ages. Illuminate is free to attend. Families are welcome and there are plenty of interactive and playful workshops for everyone to get involved in, both during and in the leadup to the festival. For more information visit illuminate-festival.co.uk/

The Royal British Legion is encouraging people to lace up their trainers and take part in its annual Poppy Run on Sunday November 6 to help support service and ex-service personnel and their families.

The RBL’s Poppy Run events are taking place in 10 cities across the country, including Central Park in Plymouth. Alternatively, there is a virtual version, My Poppy Run during October and November, where people can show their support for the 2021 Poppy Appeal. The Plymouth Poppy Run is £15 to enter and under 18s go free. Entry includes a Poppy Run T-shirt and a special finishers medal. The My Poppy Run is free to enter, and T-shirts and medals can be purchased separately. Participants can choose to run, jog or walk a distance of their choice any time during October and November and get family, friends and pets involved too. Whether runners choose to do the live Poppy Run or the virtual My Poppy Run, they will be helping to transform and support the lives of many in our Armed Forces Community, raising vital funds to ensure that those who have

Christmas Lights Switch On Nov 18 The Christmas holiday calendar officially kicks off with the switch-on of this year’s beautiful Christmas lights, marking the start of late-night shopping. More information from visitplymouth.co.uk

served are offered the life changing support they need and deserve. Sharon Wells, Events Partnerships Manager for The Royal British Legion said: “The live Poppy Run, or virtual My Poppy Run is a fantastic way for people to show their support for The Royal British Legion and have some fun with family and friends at the same time. “While the COVID-19 pandemic has created huge challenges for RBL, as we approach our 100th Poppy Appeal, there will be more ways than ever for people to show their support, including new and remote ways to take part and raise vital funds for service personnel, veterans and their families who are struggling through hardships, injuries and bereavements. “Members of the Armed Forces community need the Royal British Legion’s help now more than ever, and we are working tirelessly to ensure that those who have served are being looked after, no matter what challenges the country faces.” For more information or to sign up: www.rbl.org. uk/poppyrun or contact the events team on 0333 011 4500 or email events@britishlegion.org.uk

4 October 2021

Plympton Rotary helps launch a new mental health service in Nepal A Plymouth University graduate has got a mental health project off the ground in Nepal thanks to funding from Plympton Rotary Club.

Plympton coach Sam smashes it at Torbay event Plympton Tennis Club player and coach Sam Hopper is celebrating after winning this summer’s Torbay Open Tennis Singles Championship. Sam battled back from losing the first set of the final against Benjamin Johnson 3-6. He squared the match up by taking the second set 6-3 before eventually triumphing in a closely fought out deciding set which he won 10-8. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

The club has a long history of supporting projects in Nepal, most recently helping a school and village damaged by the 2015 earthquake in a remote part of the Gorkha district. A Nepali doctor, Aban Gautam, recently completed a Masters in Clinical Research at Plymouth University and approached the Rotary Club for help with urgent COVID-19 needs in Makwanpur District. With funding from Binika providing her the Rotary Club, Dr telephone counselling Gautam inaugurated service a tele-counselling service in early June to provide emotional and mental support to COVID-19 patients and factual advice about the virus. The service is based at the hospital he is having built, Siddhasthali Rural Community Hospital. Plympton Rotary and Dr Gautam worked quickly as virus numbers rose steeply in Nepal, advertising for a counsellor and from 128 applicants appointed a young woman, Binika Shrestha, to the post. In the first six weeks she took 545 calls and now regularly contacts people referred to her by the medical centre.

Binika keeps in regular touch with Plympton Rotary. She said: “Most of my callers are people who have not had a vaccine and have limited understanding of Covid-19. They are so relieved when they get in touch with me or when I phone them.” Some callers have a family member hospitalised or have recently lost a family member to COVID-19 and they are often scared and heartbroken. Binika prioritizes them for follow-up calls and reassurance. Plympton Rotary Club President Peter Reid served for many years as a volunteer in Nepal with VSO and understands the challenges and difficulties faced in remote parts of the country. Peter said: “We raised £5,000 very quickly. It is wonderful that our Club had support and donations from over 50 people and several other Rotary Clubs, and to know through Aban that our funds met people’s needs so quickly.” If you would like to find out more about this project or other projects that Plympton Rotary have engaged in or are looking to support, you can follow them on their Facebook page @plymptonrotary or email them at plymptonrotary@outlook.com.  (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

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Community mourns loss of former vicar The Plympton community is mourning the loss of their former vicar, Rev’d Margaret Cameron, who passed away on August 30. Rev’d Cameron was the vicar at Plympton St Mary’s Church for just over 10 years, taking up her post in the spring of 2003. Rev’d Cameron came to Plympton after previously being the rector of Hemyock with Culm Davy, Clayhiddon and Culmstock in Exeter and before that she served as curate of St Peter’s in Budleigh Salterton and later in Whipton. During her time at St Mary’s she forged strong links between the church and the community and in 2013 she was made an Honorary Stannator of Plympton in recognition of her tireless work in the local community. Rev’d Cameron retired from her Ministry in November 2013 and a farewell lunch held at Plympton Conservative Club that month was attended by a capacity 100 people. During the course of her ministry Reverend Cameron was made a prebendary - a form of canon with a role in the administration of a cathedral or collegiate church. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

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Jolly fine time at the Plym Valley Railway

Volunteers at the Plym Valley Railway are celebrating a successful ‘Music on the Rales’ event held at their Coypool site on the first weekend of September.

The event was a combination of live music, sampling of various ales, ciders and wines from Plymouth’s oldest brewery and rides on the trains. A spokesperson said: “Thank you to everyone who visited us this weekend! We have had a amazing time with our volunteers operating three diesel locomotives, a steam engine and the Class 142 too! The beer was flowing and the bands and singers were incredible.” The Plympton Ukulele Group were among many musicians performing at the event. In addition to riding on a choice of diesel and steam operated trains there was an eye-catching static exhibit of an engine which had its first experience of daylight for many years after spending a long time under cover undergoing cosmetic improvement and an engine overhaul. That exhibit was an ex-Blue Circle Cement locomotive known as Vanguard. The spokesperson added: “The locomotive is a credit to the team who have worked tirelessly on the engine over the past few years.” Looking at the finished result, who can disagree! As well as the full-sized engines visitors were also able to see the group’s evolving plans for a miniature railway and also look at a model railway display. For more information about the Plym Valley Railway and its opening times go to www.plymrail.co.uk or visit www.Facebook. com/PlymValleyRailway (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Picture House pops back into action The Pop Up Picture House has returned to its monthly screenings at Plympton St Maurice Guildhall.

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The community cinema was about to celebrate its fourth anniversary year in April 2019 when it suddenly had to cease its activities due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Now it is back in action, taking up where it left off with a screening of the film The Upside which took place on September 3. This was the film which was to have been screened in April 2019. The Pop Up Picture House intends to resume its previous format of film screenings on the first Friday of each month with doors opening at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. More details of upcoming films to be shown can be found by searching @ picturehousePSM on Facebook. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

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Thought For The Day

Much-needed upgrade for Jennycliff car park

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The popular visitor car park at Jennycliff is to get a much-needed makeover.

The car park, which attracts over 50,000 visitors a year, is made up mainly of gravel, with a small section of tarmac that frequently suffers from pothole damage. It will be completely surfaced for the first time and new, clearer signage will be installed to give drivers and passengers a safer, more pleasant welcome. Councillor Jonathan Drean, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Jennycliff is a really popular spot for local residents and visitors to take a walk and enjoy the scenic views and the car park has certainly seen a fair amount of wear and tear over the years. “We’re really pleased to be making these improvements, which will give visitors a much less bumpy arrival and hopefully far fewer muddy puddles to avoid! It should also mean fewer repairs in the longer term, which is more cost-effective. “We will need to close the car park for a few days while the work is carried out but we’re aiming to complete this as soon as possible. We’d like to thank everyone for bearing with us while we make these much-needed improvements.” The car park will be closed from September 13, for up to five days.The nearest public car park is at Mount Batten, a short distance along the South West Coast Path. There are some parking spaces on Staddon Lane but drivers are reminded these are limited and to park safely and considerately. Access to the Jennycliff Café and nearby public toilets will be maintained throughout the works.

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Bulky waste collections will be returning this autumn. The service, which was suspended in 2020 to allow for prioritisation of domestic collections, will begin again in October. Bookings will be taken from the end of September. The break in the service has allowed the Council to analyse residents’ use of the service and make a few subtle changes to the pricing and booking system. Previously, residents were charged £20 for the collection of up to three items, and £40 for the collection of up to six items. Now, residents will be able to dispose of four items for £25 and then £10 per item thereafter. In addition, where collections used to be free of charge for recipients of Council Tax, Housing, Income Support or Pension Credit benefits, a 50 per cent discount will apply for Council Tax support recipients only. These changes not only reflects residents’ use of the service in previous years, but following an extensive benchmarking exercise, ensures that the cost of bulky waste collection in Plymouth remains below that of other local authorities. Visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/newsroom and the council Twitter and Facebook pages for more updates.

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Happy ending for Ethel the cat after six months of loving care

Staff and volunteers at Woodside Animal Sanctuary in Elfordleigh are celebrating after their celebrity cat which they rescued in March has found a forever home.

Ethel was in a terrible state when she arrived at Woodside after living as a stray for a lengthy period. Woodside deputy manager Dawn Cornish said: “She looked like a walking brick. I have seen a fair few tangled coats but never matting this bad.” But even with all the extra fur she was so emaciated she weighed only half the weight of a cat her size. Dawn added: “She needed help urgently as her neck and head were so tightly matted she could hardly move, so we shaved her neck and this obviously provided immediate relief.” Nevertheless it took Ethel some time before she trusted herself to move freely without the expected pain of tugging hair. Her road to health continued with a trip to the vets where they found her mouth to be deeply infected, which explained why she could not

groom herself. The rest of her fur was shaved while she was under anaesthetic. Dawn said: “She was very weak, extremely underweight and generally vulnerable. With the added complication of a chest infection, at times it was touch and go during those early weeks. As she gained strength Woodside started to share her story on the charity’s social media page and she quickly gathered a regular following eager to learn of her progress. Some of her videos received over 10,000 views and over a thousand comments wishing her well. Her posts also gained attention from as far away as the USA and Australia. Six months after arriving in such a story state the time came for Ethel to prepare to leave the sanctuary for her forever home. Her new owners said: “We saw a recent post on Facebook and were touched by her story. She seemed to be elderly and overlooked and we just felt we could offer her a home a spoil her for the rest of her days. We cannot wait to get her home.”

Plymouth to benefit from more trees A total of 2,021 new trees will be planted throughout the city between now and Spring 2022 to boost green infrastructure and help reduce the impact of climate change.

Woodside staff member Kirstin Stone with Ethel as she looks today and (inset) how she looked on arrival

Woodside’s founder Carole Bowles said: “Thankfully we do not see as many animals in the neglected health that Ethel was suffering when she arrived as we did in the past but maybe this is because we are able to reach them earlier. “With over 175 animals on site though it is always an uphill battle especially when many of our animals require long term care due to illness or age. With Ethel too we wondered if she would become a long term resident. Thankfully we do have four special care units on site which

provide long term care for animals that are unlikely to be rehoused for medical, age or behavioural reasons. “These units take a lot of funding but the demand is always high and not something we would ever want to cut back on. The cats all have free roam of the sanctuary during the day and so it is very much a home from home environment for them.” Anyone who would like to help support the work of Woodside and cats like Ethel are asked to visit the website on www.woodsidesanctuary. org.uk.

The new trees will be added to the 394,000 trees that are already contained throughout Plymouth – that’s equivalent to 1.5 trees for every person! Each tree will be accessible throughout public places such as parks and open spaces, road verges, residential streets and outside housing developments. The commitment to more trees comes as both the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan (CEAP) and Corporate Carbon Reduction Plan (CCRP) acknowledge the significant role tree planting and tree management plays in addressing the Climate Emergency and mitigating climate change. Introducing more trees to Plymouth’s existing green spaces (40 per cent of total land) will help deliver on the council’s Climate Emergency commitments by reducing C02 emissions, absorbing pollution and improving our air quality. Greening programmes also have many other benefits that include providing habitat for wildlife, improving urban aesthetics and benefitting the mental health of residents. The additional trees will also lessen the impact of Ash Dieback, a destructive disease that presents a significant risk to the loss of trees in the city. The newly established trees will be supported by the principles of the council’s Plan for Trees which helps trees in urban areas become fit for purpose, resilient to the challenges of climate change and disease, whilst being adaptable to whatever new challenges the future may hold. For more information visit www.plymouth. gov.uk/planningandbuildingcontrol/ treesandhedges/plantrees

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10 October 2021

@PlymChronicle

Plympton students celebrate successes

Hele’s celebration: Amy Best, Morgan Ellicott, Bethany Allen, Rachel Wintour and Jenny Whistler

Hele’s celebration: Joe Hannon, Corey Pearce, Tom Allen, Kelly Armstrong, Samet Gokoglu and Gabe Marshall

High hopes are realised at Hele’s School

Year 13 students at Hele’s School returned towards the end of the summer holidays to find out the results of their A Level and BTEC studies over the past two years – and there were some outstanding successes.

Hele’s School Principal, Justine Mason, said: “In a year like no other, it was an absolute pleasure to welcome our students back on site to receive their

qualifications. The journey to this year’s results day has certainly been the most unusual we have ever known or could ever have imagined, and we hugely commend the maturity and resilience our young people have shown in the most difficult of circumstances.” There were stand out performances from a number of A Level students, with Joe Hannon, Elliot O’Connor, Caitlin Taylor, Millie Rowsell, Reggie West, Jamie Frost and Jack Stone topping this year’s results haul with a very impressive 19 A*s and 3 As between them! Head Girl, Holly Roser, achieved grades A, A, Distinction* and will be studying Tourism Management at Bournemouth University, while Deputy Head Girl, Millie Rowsell, finished her Hele’s School career with a bagful of top grades - building on the eight grade 9s she achieved at

Academy all stars!

Plympton Academy has reported some outstanding achievements by its students in their A levels and Level 3 BTEC qualifications this summer.

GCSE with three A* grades at A level to round off an exceptional seven years! Head Boy, Joe Hannon, also built on his success at GCSE where he achieved six grade 9s and an A* in Latin, to secure three A* grades and one A at A level. Joe will be studying Mathematics and Philosophy at the University of Warwick. Caitlin Taylor and Elliot O’ Connor achieved six grade 9s at GCSE followed by three A*s at A Level to further highlight that students have continued to grow and achieve great success since their GCSE qualifications. Many excited students are now looking forward to starting university courses in subjects ranging from accounting, aerospace engineering, cyber security, economics, and nursing to physiotherapy, law and everything in between, while Emily Brokenshire and Kelly Armstrong are going on to

study Medicine at Newcastle University and Queen Mary University London (Barts) respectively. Several students have also secured a plethora of exciting and competitive Higher Level Apprenticeships, including Olivia Heath who achieved four A Level grades at A*, A, A, B. She has started as a paralegal apprentice at Womble Bond Dickinson. Ms Mason, speaking on behalf of the whole school community, concluded, “At Hele’s School, we are always hugely proud of our students’ achievements but there is definitely an additional element of pride this year as we bid a very fond farewell to the cohort graduating today. Not only have our young people achieved highly but they have made a lasting contribution to the school community. “ (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Plympton Academy celebrations: Annabelle Wilkins, Makayla Cook, Olivia Osborne, Ebony Bell, Taylor Vockings, Anna Laniewski and Lily Wallers

This year, following the cancellation of exams, grades were awarded through a process of evidence-informed grades, against a national standard and approved and awarded by the exam boards. The government is not publishing performance data for any schools or colleges this year due to the varying impact of the pandemic. Some of the amazing individual achievements include Carrie Irwin, who achieved three A* Grades in Biology, Plympton Academy celebrations: Ryan Mathematics and Religious Studies and is Vince, Justin Combs, Hayden Simpson, going on to study Physical Education; Olivia Lewis Treleaven and Connor Perry Osborne, who achieved A* in Psychology, A in Religious Studies Jake Grenney..will and a Distinction study commercial star in her BTEC photography at Business Studies distinction stars in her BTECs; Carys Macaskill who achieved seven Grade 9 Plympton Academy Year 11 students achieved excellent results in Plymouth College of Art and is going on qualifications, three Grade 8s and two distinction stars. their GCSEs and Level 2 BTEC qualifications this summer. to read Marketing There were also outstanding results achieved by Katie Stephenson, Freya Just a few of the many success stories included: Leah Nelson who achieved and Management at the University of Exeter; Martin, Rachael Easterbrook, Paige Gould and Katie Venn who all averaged a well deserved nine Grade 9 qualifications and a distinction star in her BTEC; Hayden Alexander who achieved A* in English above Grade 8 for their qualifications. Ellie James who achieved eight Grade 9 qualifications, two Grade 8s and two Language and Literature and achieved Grade A in both History and Religious Studies and is going on Leah Nelson - nine Grade 9s Plympton Academy GCSE celebrations (from left) Ethan Holman, Luke to read History at the University of Southampton; and a distinction Witts, Jack Willis, Marcus Clinnick, David Jeal, Oliver Brockman and Kyle Jake Greeney who achieved an A* in Photography, Higgs Grade A in Religious Studies and a Distinction star in BTEC Sport and is going on to study Commercial Photography at the Plymouth College of Art; Annabelle Wilkins who achieved an A* in Sociology and Grade A in History and Religious Studies and is going on to read Criminal Justice and Criminology at the University of Leeds. Lisa Boorman, the Academy’s principal said: “We are immensely proud of all the work and achievements of our students, especially after such a difficult and disrupted year. Our teachers have worked tirelessly to ensure students are all able to progress onto further education and apprenticeships, and we look forward to seeing what they will achieve in the future.”

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12 September 2021

@PlymChronicle

Artist’s impression of the new Electric Forecourt in Outland Road

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Plans for electric forecourt in Plymouth are unveiled Plans for the construction of an Electric Forecourt in Plymouth have been revealed.

GRIDSERVE Sustainable Energy has announced that it intends to submit a planning application to build the superfast Electric Forecourt in Outland Road, adjacent to Goals and opposite the current Esso filling station. Plymouth could become one of over 100 locations across the country to feature an Electric Forecourt delivering convenient, ultra-fast charging for drivers of all types of electric vehicles - particularly those who don’t have offstreet parking at home. Electric Forecourts are supplied by 100% renewable, net zero carbon energy, and represent a critical part of the solution needed to support the transition to mass market numbers of electric vehicles, in advance of the ban of new petrol or diesel vehicles in less than eight years from now. The Plymouth Electric Forecourt will offer the world’s fastest charging rates, with the ability to charge an electric vehicles in less than 30 minutes, and help to position Plymouth at the forefront of the low-carbon transport revolution. The location of the forecourt will provide convenient access for the region’s private and businesses users, supplying low cost, high- speed charging powered by 100% renewable energy.

The current proposal by GRIDSERVE, includes 32 charging bays, a coffee shop, convenience retail, and an airport-style lounge with high-speed internet. This will also serve as a learning centre to raise interest and share information about all topics related to electric vehicles, and provide the confidence, and platform people need to help make the transition to electric vehicles in the earliest possible timeframes. Toddington Harper, chief executive and founder of GRIDSERVE, said: “Plymouth City Council has declared a climate emergency with the intention of the city becoming carbon neutral by 2030. By developing this state-of-the-art Electric Forecourt in Plymouth, we will be supporting the City Council in achieving

this objective. It will support residents of Plymouth to tackle local air pollution and encourage low-carbon transport, while also offering a solution that is future proofed to support the mass uptake of electric vehicles. “Plymouth is in the unique position of being at the forefront of over 100 sites across the UK to host a GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt. Every site will be supporting the grid with on-site batteries and supplied by solar energy. With convenient, dependable, ultra-fast charging, we are making charging an EV as easy as using petrol stations, with the best possible customer experience.” Visit www.gridserve.com/plymouth for details and to comment on the plans.

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Plymouth Energy Community is working with Plymouth City Council, to develop a new community-owned solar farm, at Chelson Meadow.

The project will bring a site the size of 24 football pitches into action as a key part of the city’s response to the climate emergency. To get to net zero Plymouth needs to be making a rapid transition onto renewable power sources, and this project provides one of the few opportunities actually within our city to make a substantial contribution to this ambition. With support from a government grant, Plymouth Energy Community (PEC) has completed feasibility studies that demonstrate this scheme will generate a significant amount of the city’s renewable power, enough to power 3,860 homes, whilst also having the potential to deliver an improvement in biodiversity, and

provide a huge educational experience for the public to engage in Plymouth’s net zero transition. Alistair Macpherson, chief executive of Plymouth Energy Community, said: “We are very excited to be working with Plymouth City Council to bring forward this flagship community renewables project for the city.” “PEC already owns and manages 20% of Plymouth’s renewable power infrastructure. This new project will be three times bigger than their current solar farm at Ernesettle, and will put local people in control over a key part of the city’s transition to net zero emissions. A community owned solution will maximise the local economic benefits of this investment and ensure any surpluses are invested into other local projects that respond to climate change and tackle fuel poverty.” Councillor Maddi Bridgeman, Cabinet member for Environment and Street

Scene, said: “It is fantastic to be a part of this incredible project that will revolutionise how we power Plymouth.” “Our collaboration with PEC is widely seen as a national and international exemplar for how councils and local community led organisations cooperate to scale up grass roots response to climate change.” “As our Climate Emergency Action Plan makes clear we cannot do this alone, and there is a space for everyone to make a difference.” “Substantial challenges and changes are required to get the investment our City needs to get to net zero, and we want make sure that investment is secured in a way that helps us build back better. This community owned project on our old landfill site is a fantastic example of that.” For updates visit www. plymouthenergycommunity.com/ourwork/chelson-meadow.

October 2021

@PlymChronicle

Sherford takes centre stage as the Tour of Britain sets off across Devon

The new community of Sherford took centre stage on September 6 as it hosted the start of Stage Two of the legendary Tour of Britain cycle race.

Thousands of visitors joined Sherford residents to watch the world-famous race set off from Sherford’s main street, enjoy a bustling event village, cheer on a community parade, and soak up the atmosphere. The lead-up to the Stage Two start at Sherford saw the community, which is already home to over 1,000 residents, come together over the weekend to create a huge piece of land art to celebrate the Tour of Britain.  Built by Sherford families to be visible from the sky, the land art took the form of a giant 50m x 30m race bike, using recycled bike wheels and reusable materials in line with the community’s sustainability principles. Residents lined the ‘wheels’ of the impressive 2D structure, walking around the perimeter to create the illusion of a giant moving bike.  A family fun day saw hundreds of Sherford families celebrate together, with activities including children’s cycle races, and plentiful cream teas served in the sunshine.   The growing town will eventually be home to 12,000 people, but already has an exceptionally strong sense of community spirit. This was particularly evident in a Community Lead-out

They’re off...thousands of spectators at Sherford for the start Stage Two of the Tour of Britain

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Cordless Cleaner Parade, where Sherford Vale primary school pupils rode out from the start line to launch the Devon leg of the race. They were accompanied by Bikeability instructors, local key workers, and a local women’s cycle group.  The Lead-out Parade featured a number of children wearing distinctive custom-made cycling

Youngsters enjoying the family fun day

jerseys. These were designed by a Sherford Vale pupil during a competition run over the summer. Freddie Beckhurst, age five, created the winning design. The colours are a nod to the red, white and blue of the Tour of Britain emblem, mixed with green to symbolise Sherford’s Country Park, which Freddie and his family love having on their doorstep. From BMX stunt demos and an array of stalls to visit, to commemorative Devon flags and selfie frames for photo mementos of the day; Sherford came to life with thousands of visitors flocking to the town to see off the race in style. Lining the streets, spectators saw the riders depart on 185km route, heading through the South Hams and across Dartmoor, before finishing in Exeter.   Jenna Waters, Vistry Partnerships, part of the    Sherford Consortium said, “Hosting the Tour of Britain is an honour and we are delighted to support this incredible event. The vision for Sherford has always been to create a vibrant new community that people love being part of, and we think that is especially the case today. We appreciate the opportunity to welcome so many visitors to Sherford, so they can see and experience what an incredible place it is.” Ian Pugsley of Taylor Wimpey, part of the Sherford Consortium said, “This ever-growing town already has a strong community spirit, which was clear to see in this weekend’s family activities, during the Lead-out Parade, and the welcome given to riders and spectators today. We are thrilled to have helped everyone enjoy the occasion; this is truly an event that the Sherford community will remember and treasure.” Find out more here: www.sherford.org Photos by John Allen

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14 October 2021

Plymouth tickled pink!

@PlymChronicle

Council launches new campaign to recruit more home care assistants Plymouth City Council is launching a new dedicated campaign to encourage more people to consider working in the home care sector.

Clinically urgent blood tests will continue in Devon People requiring clinically urgent blood tests in Plymouth and the rest of Devon have been assured they will still be able to have them as surgeries and health care settings are faced with a shortage of equipment used for carrying out blood tests.

A global supply issue is affecting the availability nationally of the blood tubes used for blood tests and this is now having an impact on the number of tests that are being carried out. The shortage means surgeries and other healthcare settings are having to restrict the number of blood tests they can carry out and reduce non-clinically urgent testing. However, local clinical leaders have reassured patients that blood tests will only be deferred where it is clinically safe to do so. The supply position of the equipment remains constrained and is forecast to become even more constrained over the coming weeks. While it is anticipated that the position will improve from the middle of September, overall supply is likely to remain challenging for a significant period. Dr Paul Johnson, Clinical Chair, NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “A supplier to the NHS has advised us of a global shortage of some equipment used for taking blood tests. “Anyone who needs a test for urgent health problems will still get one but, where your clinician recommends that it’s safe to do so, you may be asked to come back for a test at a later date, or your appointment may be rescheduled. “Given the nature of the shortage, we have not been given an exact date for when tests will be rescheduled, but please be assured that if your condition or symptoms require it, then you will get a test, and the NHS will be re-booking your test when supplies become more easily available. “If your condition or symptoms change or get worse, please contact the NHS as you would normally.”

Plymouth turned bright pink on August 20 as a thousand participants came together to walk across the city, raising vital funds for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth.

Faces both familiar and new were welcomed to its hotly anticipated mass participation fundraising event, Midnight Walk, following the sponsored walk’s cancellation last year because of the pandemic. So popular was the event in aid of the compassionate care the hospice provides across Plymouth and surrounding areas that it was a complete sell-out. Setting off from Plymouth Argyle’s Home Park Stadium, everyone followed either a five, 10 or 15-mile route taking in many Plymouth landmarks, including Smeaton’s Tower and the Barbican. And when the challenge got tough, moral support came in abundance from the spectators who cheered them on from their front gardens and the passing motorists who tooted their horns in solidarity. The event, sponsored by GA Solicitors, saw many participants walking in memory of lost loved ones, having fun and making new memories as they

celebrated the lives of people special to them who will never be forgotten. Head of fundraising at St Luke’s, Penny Hannah, said: “After the disappointment of having to cancel last year’s Midnight Walk due to COVID-19 safety measures, this year’s event felt even more special. For some taking part, it was the first opportunity they have had to reunite with family and friends since losing a loved one during the past 18 months, which have been so incredibly tough for everyone going through bereavement. It was also important for us to remember the five people whose lives were tragically taken in Keyham, and think of their loved ones, too. “We are so grateful to everyone who took part. Sponsorship money raised helps keep our team on the road 365 days a year, giving their compassionate care to patients in the comfort of their own home and supporting their families – all of which helps make our community a kinder place for people living and dying with terminal illness and for those close to them as well. For more information about St Luke’s specialist end of life care visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk

Home care or domiciliary care assistants are vital to support people to improve and maintain their independence, enabling them to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible. However, a shortage of staff in this sector means there is increased pressure on hospital wards and care homes as people are unable to return home. This lack of staff comes on top of the increased pressure that the health and social care sector were already under due to the effect of the Coronavirus Pandemic  In 2020 the City Council joined forces with Devon and Torbay Councils to launch the Proud to Care campaign, aimed at recruiting more people across the entire health and social care sector to ease the pressure on hospitals.  Since its launch almost 300 people have been offered employment through Proud to Care’s applicant placing service, while thousands more have applied directly for the hundreds of jobs advertised on the Proud to Care jobs board.  However, despite the numbers recruited there is still a significant gap in the domiciliary care market in Plymouth, which is why the council is now launching a new dedicated campaign which focuses solely on recruiting staff in this area. Localised support for applicants will be coordinated through Skills Launchpad Plymouth including help for individuals to prepare for interview in a care setting, the opportunity to gain entry level care skills to build confidence, and advice to overcome barriers to starting work including access to financial support for work clothing, initial travel to work costs as well as guidance on benefits calculations.   The new campaign will focus on the benefits of a job in home care which includes promoting the flexibility to choose the sort of hours that are right for the applicant. All as well as flexible hours other benefits include; paid holiday on top of the hourly rate, paid mileage and travel time.  Trudy Phillips, who has been working as a home care assistant for 14 years, said: “I have loved the flexibility of the caring role and have continued to provide care and support to my clients alongside working in the office. I joined the care industry with little experience and received full training and support to help me provide the best care possible. I find promoting independence and caring for clients in a dignified manner very rewarding, it gives me great satisfaction knowing that I am supporting clients to achieve their goals and remaining within their own home.”  Strategic commissioning manager Caroline Paterson, who works closely with the city’s domiciliary care providers, said: “Our providers are really keen to highlight that working with people to enable them to maintain their independence and continue to live in their own homes is one of the most rewarding jobs there is. A job where you really feel you have made a difference to someone’s day.  “All home care Assistants receive excellent training and will be supported if they choose to study for any of the professional qualifications available. Work is available all day, every day, seven days a week and therefore assistants can work flexibly at times that fit in with their lifestyle to provide that perfect work/life balance.”  Visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/workinhomecare to find out more about working in home care and the comprehensive support available.

October 2021

@PlymChronicle

Seafood fans Plans for community speed watch discussed in for a treat at Festival

Plymstock Matters with Councillor Rebecca Smith Hope this finds you having enjoyed a semi-normal summer, even if more of us holidayed at home than abroad! It’s hard to believe it’s already September!

Cllr Smith with PCSO Bob Bayly, PC Dean Large and Sgt Roger Hocking

Seafood fans are in for a treat this September as the Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival returns to the Barbican and Sutton Harbour on September 18 and 19.

It felt good to start seeing some of the normal features of a Plymouth summer back on the schedule with the British Firework Championships and plenty of activity and excitement on the water. Although, I have to admit I was at the F1 British Grand Prix when the Sail GP happened in Plymouth Sound. We recently conducted a residents’ survey across Saltram Meadow and heard back from over 50 locals about what they like about their community and what they’d like to see improve. Not only was it great to be out meeting people on Cllr Smith meeting with residents of Saltram Meadows

the doors again, it was good to get some feedback on local issues. I’m very aware of the lack of play facilities there and I will be writing to Persimmons and see if there is any way they will bring forward installing them even though their planning permission states they can wait until they’ve built more houses. Being able to meet more easily in person meant I caught up with the Plymstock Police team a couple of weeks ago. We had a great coffee at the Black

Cat Surf Cafe at the Broadway and chatted about things we are working on locally and how we can keep working together. The next ‘Have Your Say’ meeting will have taken place before you read this, but as part of that meeting we are having a presentation about setting up a Community Speed Watch in Plymstock to help monitor traffic speeds and issues across the ward. As ever, feel free to follow me on Facebook for regular updates - search for Cllr Rebecca Smith or @PlymouthRebecca. Equally, email with any casework on rebecca.smith@plymouth.gov.uk or call on 07825 034970.

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Organised by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership (PWP), the free festival is a vibrant celebration of everything Plymouth’s historic harbourside has to offer, including fresh, sustainably caught fish. Diane Mansell, chief executive of PWP, said: “The festival is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the very best of the Waterfront and to celebrate the area’s heritage. “With stalls, entertainment and demonstrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While you’re here, make sure you explore the fantastic range of independent shops, eateries and galleries along the Barbican and Sutton Harbour.” Throughout the weekend, a Cookery Theatre on West Pier (next to the Mayflower Steps) will host demonstrations from chefs at some of Plymouth’s most popular restaurants include Supha’s, Rockfish and Monty’s. Chefs from The Boathouse and The Hook & Line will also be battling it out onstage in a cook-off on Sunday afternoon. Stalls will line the streets of The Parade, Quay Square and West Pier, selling delicious street food dishes to enjoy on the day as well as special treats to take home, ranging from fresh fish and shellfish to fudge, flapjacks and local gins and liqueurs. Ventons Devon Cyder will be hosting the festival bar, so you can soak up the atmosphere with a tasty tipple. For those wanting to learn more about how to prepare fish and eat it sustainably, Seafish will have a display of local species provided by Plymouth Trawler Agents. Their team can explain how to fillet different types of fish and will be happy to answer questions. Plus at the end of each day, you can purchase the fish from the auction in the Cookery Theatre. Sound Seafood will have some tasty samples for you to try of fresh Mackerel and Sardines.  There will be plenty of fun for children too, including free crabbing, colouring, crafts and even a giant fisherman puppet to look out for, with his shrimp friends! The Ocean Conservation Trust will be on hand throughout the weekend too, with games to play and plenty of fascinating stories about life beneath the waves. Learn all about the impacts of plastic pollution or join in a litter pick to help keep the Waterfront plastic free. There’s also a walking trail to follow from September 11 to 19. Follow to find the 20 beautiful fish illustrations designed by resident festival artist, Debby Mason. The festival has been made possible with the support of Sutton Harbour Group, Sound Seafood, Ventons Devon Cyder and Plymouth City Council.

Find out more about the Festival at visitplymouth.co.ukseafoodandharbourfest

16 October 2021

Sherford plots for the future

Sherford residents will soon have access to a communal green getaway, with new plans unveiled for a new allotment building. This new structure will offer users a functional, shared social space amidst the town’s first allotment plots.

Designed with sustainability at its heart, the new building will be created from a re-purposed site cabin and will include a kitchen, outdoor terrace, equipment storage, and eco-friendly accessible and compostable toilets. Built for the community by the community; learners from the Sherford Skills Training Scheme will have a role in creating the building. The plans were submitted just as the UK celebrated National Allotment Week, an annual initiative to raise awareness of the role allotments play in bringing communities together and supporting sustainable lifestyles. From growing fruit and vegetables, to cultivating new friendships, this year’s ‘Plotting for the Future’ theme focuses on how allotments

16 October 2021 help create an eco-friendly future. The new allotment building will be surrounded by extensive landscaping works, including new orchard trees, wildflowers and grasses; all of which are already found in the surrounding Devon countryside. Accessible to all, Sherford allotment users and visitors, will have access to the new facility, its own dedicated car park, and a network of footpaths. The first wave of allotment plots will be located within a two-hectare space near Sherford’s country park and play area, which means residents and community groups will be able to grow their own produce within walking distance of their homes. In total, there will be eight-hectares of land dedicated to allotment space at Sherford, which will become available as the town develops over the years. Kathryn Pennington, regional development director for Vistry Partnerships South West, part of the Sherford Consortium said: “Allotments have been bringing communities together throughout history, and from making the most of the outdoors, to fostering new friendships, their benefits are countless. The new allotment building is set to be a fantastic addition to the growing community. The permanent structure will not only be the perfect practical place for allotment users, but it will also be the ideal location to meet other members of the community, and create a more sustainable way of life.”

@PlymChronicle

Lord Mayor re-opens popular coffee bar at Harewood House

A popular Plympton meeting place which plays an important part in relieving social isolation in the area has re-opened after being shut for over 17 months due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The Harewood House coffee bar was formally re-opened by Lord Mayor Cllr Terri Beer in a ceremony at 10am on Monday September 6. As part of the ceremony one of the historic Plympton maces was brought along to the re-opening. The Lord Mayor said: “It was a huge and emotional pleasure to re-open Harewood House coffee bar and meet volunteers and residents.” The coffee bar, which serves reasonably priced hot and cold drinks and snacks, will be open from 10am until approx 2pm Monday to Friday each week. As well as providing an important community meeting place for social interaction between residents the coffee bar also serves as an important fundraising facility for the local groups and organisations whose volunteers run the coffee bar as a means of raising funds for their various causes. Profits from the first week’s sales will go to the Lord Mayor’s two chosen charities, Bowel Cancer West and the NSPCC. During the immediate following weeks the bar will be run by

Plympton Gardeners (Sept 13 - 17 ), EE The Breakthrough Transformation Trust (Sept 20 - 25 ) and St Peter’s Lutheran Church (Sept 27 to Oct 1). As part of COVID compliant measures the toilets at Harewood House are restricted to one person at a time, but both toilets are now unisex and visitors are asked to wear face masks when walking through the building. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Lord Mayor Cllr Terri Beer, husband consort Colin, Civic Macebearer Steve Mallinson holding one of the Plympton maces and Phyl Twiss and Beryl Netherton from Plympton Community Council

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October 2021

@PlymChronicle

Flower Festival strikes right note Hundreds of people visited Cornwood Church over the recent August Bank Holiday weekend to visually take in over twenty floral exhibits on display as part of the church’s flower festival.

Ofcom awards special licence to Hospital Radio Hospital Radio Plymouth is one of only 12 stations in the UK to be awarded a special licence by the communications regulator, Ofcom.

The festival takes place every two years with each year having a particular theme to the displays. This year’s theme was ‘Music in the Landscape’ with many of the displays adopting song titles or music types as their source of inspiration. One display had yellow flowers arranged in the shape of a saxophone and was themed on rock and roll. A much larger display included a mini forest of trees and flowers in the shape of a man and woman to depict ‘Tales from the Vienna Woods.’ There was also a large display at the

main altar which paid tribute to the NHS. Many of the visitors to the four day event commented on the impressiveness of the various floral displays. (Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

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Stunning floral displays at the Cornwood Flower Festival included these three examples: a tribute to the NHS, a rock and roll themed yellow saxophone and an eye-catching display of a man and a woman depicting Tales from the Vienna Woods

The new ‘limited coverage’ licence is designed for organisations who want to broadcast within a limited area, such as hospitals or army barracks.  Although Hospital Radio Plymouth already had an FM licence, it wasn’t strong enough to reach all parts of Derriford Hospital and the Peninsula Medical School, so the charity was an ideal candidate for the new licence. Station manager Keith Jolley said: “This licence is being issued to 12 organisations on a trial basis to see if the extended range is a viable option for more restricted radio licences in the future. Over the next 12 months, we’ll be working with Ofcom to report back on the success of our new FM frequency.  “As a charity, we’ve seen the impact radio can have on improving people’s wellbeing for over 50 years, so it’s exciting to be at the start of what could be a new phase of FM broadcasting.”  Hospital Radio Plymouth will now be broadcasting on 107.3FM, allowing it to be heard more clearly on FM across the hospital campus.  The station is now also broadcasting online via its website and app, allowing them to liaise with local residential homes and to connect others who may be feeling isolated with friends and family who can share the listening experience with them.  The multi-award winning station has a team of volunteers who visit patients in hospital, collect requests, put together programmes and make sure there is a friendly voice at the patient’s bedside 24/7.  To tune in, make a request or send a dedication, patients, staff, friends and family can contact the station at www.hospitalradioplymouth.org.uk

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18 October 2021

Appeal for help after discovery of dogs being kept in appalling conditions in Plymouth home Gables Dogs and Cats Home were recently called to help with yet another suspected puppy farm, located in a seemingly typical family home in the centre of Plymouth.

When they arrived they immediately knew they were dealing with a serious situation by the putrid smell that greeted them as they approached the property. After accessing the house, two female adult dogs were found crammed into tiny cages among piles of rubbish and junk in a dark, filthy room. Both dogs had no food or water and were left sitting in months’ worth of their own waste. Their claws were overgrown, the pads on their paws were burnt from standing on the urine-soaked floor of the cages and they were both severely underweight. To make matters worse, both dogs were nursing litters of very young puppies. Without adequate food or water the strain on these poor mothers was clear; they were giving everything of themselves to ensure their puppies survived. Another eight severely underweight dogs, suspected to be the father and a previous litter, were found running loose in another filthy, rubbish strewn room. They also had no food or water and weren’t given any access to the outside world. This room had been used as their toilet, resulting in all eight dogs’ long hair being heavily matted with their own waste. All 19 of the dogs and puppies were signed over to Gables so they could receive the urgent care and attention they desperately needed to save their lives. After arriving at Gables they were provided with much needed food and water, and all ten adult dogs began to gain weight in a matter of days. The adult dogs had their severely matted coats shaved off and they were bathed, clipped and groomed by Dee, from Designer Pets, and her daughter. They removed an incredible 5kg (the equivalent of five bags of sugar) of urine-soaked, muck-covered hair from all the dogs, who were relieved to finally be able to move freely. All of the dogs and puppies will need to be neutered or spayed before looking for

Rescued...the dogs safely in the Gables van

@PlymChronicle Members of the Borrow Don’t Buy team

Plymouth projects need your votes in race for top award Two Plymouth projects, The Box on The Box and Borrow Don’t Buy, are appealing for votes after reaching the finals of the National Lottery Awards 2021 ‘Project of the Year’.

their forever homes. Some of them will need dental work, ear treatments and hernia repairs; and they will all require medical baths as part of the essential healthcare they have never received before. Deputy manager, Ruth Rickard said: “I have attended several rescues throughout my career and no matter how many times you do it, that ‘smell’ is indescribable. It was so bad inside the house that I actually thought I was going to lose my lunch and had to step outside more than once; unlike these poor dogs, who weren’t allowed to go outside for a breath of fresh air. “It really brought home how these poor dogs had needlessly suffered every day. As well as the obvious physical neglect and lack of care given to these dogs, they had never been socialised outside of the home so were extremely nervous and scared of anyone new. “Fortunately they are now in our care and our priority is to give them all the love, attention and support they need to go on to

have much happier futures.” Taking on a large group of dogs in one go can be daunting at the best of times and with the current financial situation this certainly was not an easy decision but Gables simply couldn’t let these poor dogs down. It is estimated it will cost Gables an additional £5,000 for all the essential treatment and ongoing care the 19 dogs and puppies need. If Gables is lucky enough to raise more money than is needed it will go towards helping the other animals in their care. Gables Dogs & Cats Home does not receive any government funding and has felt the financial strain from the Coronavirus pandemic, but they are determined to help ‘Shih Tzu Shambles’. Anyone who would like to help to ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to ‘Shih Tzu Shambles Vet Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/ shihtzushambles to donate online.

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They beat off stiff competition from more than 1500 organisations to reach the public voting stage in this year’s National Lottery Awards, which celebrate the inspirational people and projects who do extraordinary things with the help of National Lottery funding. There are 17 shortlisted finalists from across the UK, who will compete in a four-week public vote to be named the inaugural National Lottery Project of the Year. Winners will receive a £3,000 cash prize for their project and an iconic National Lottery Awards trophy. The Box on The Box was an initiative that came about during the first COVID-19 lockdown. The Box - Plymouth’s new museum and gallery - live streamed films from their archives direct to some of the most isolated people across the city. Combining archive film with commentary and reminiscence prompts, the project was viewed over 3,000 times by people living in care homes, residential settings and others living with memory loss. One care home went out and bought a smart TV just so they could participate, another spent time going room to room ‘rewinding’ each session so that all of their residents could take part. Borrow Don’t Buy, aims to help their members reduce clutter, save money and ultimately reduce their carbon footprint while strengthening the community by simply borrowing not buying. This innovative ‘library of things’ lends out anything from power drills to electric bikes and even encourages members to fix their own technical products by supporting repairing sessions. From 2018 to 2020, Borrow Don’t Buy saved the people of Plymouth over £90,000 of valuable income - enough to buy a twobedroom flat in the heart of the city. Jonathan Tuchner, from the National Lottery, added: “In these challenging times that we still find ourselves in, we see so many examples of inspirational work throughout our communities, driven by these very projects. It’s thanks to National Lottery players, who raise more than £30 million each week for good causes, that brilliant projects like these, are possible. “The Box on The Box and Borrow Don’t Buy are doing some incredible work in Plymouth and they both thoroughly deserve to be in the finals of the National Lottery Awards Project of the Year 2021. With your support, one of them could be a winner.” To vote for The Box on The Box or Borrow Don’t Buy please go to lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards. Or simply use the Twitter hashtag #NLATheBox or #NLABorrow. Voting runs until 5pm on October 4.

What is POP? POP is a charity that supports and leads real, purposeful and lasting change in Plymouth. Our purpose is to build strong grassroots organisations, charities and social enterprises by supporting them to work together and take a lead in creating change. POP has more than 400 member organisations of which 70% are ‘small’ organisations (under £100k turnover) and ‘micro’ (under £10k turnover). Since 2014 we have:

Raised £7.9 million for 259 organisations in Plymouth. Given personal unique advice

in a one-to-one setting to more than 550 city-based voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations.

Held 130 workshops at which more than 900 individuals from

community groups/organisations have received “significant improvements to their learning and understanding”.

Helpline Numbers:

POP on Funding

LINE ICONS

POP Collectives Fund: Tom Loveder, from the Radical Minski project, opens the Love Shack

POP ideas

POP Surveys

POP ideas is delivered by POP and Iridescent Ideas. It provides support and advice to organisations, whatever size they may be, whether they are new or established. It can help to get projects off-the-ground and then help sustain them. It is often the first stop for people in Plymouth with good ideas. In the financial year 2020-2021 POP ideas has:

CHARI

Four years ago POP received £1.3m from the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation on the basis that we would use the funding to better address the needs of people across the city and bring about greater ‘change’ through improvements to the voluntary sector and by creating a more effective - and equal - working partnership between the voluntary, public and private sectors. We think we’ve been doing pretty well so far! Here’s why...

In March last year, and co-inciding with PHILANTROPHY ORGAN DONATION HUMAN RESOURCES when the first lockdown began, POP Since July 2018 POP has handed out working with Plymouth City Council & £287,000 to projects across the city. Our Plymouth - undertook a survey of We’ve been testing new ways of funding its members which then helped the city - prioritising participation, openness and better respond to the Covid-19 pandemic. collaboration: The results and remarks from participants highlighted some of the challenges the Our “250 a POP” fund has been paid sector was facing and subsequently out 66 times, that’s a total of £15,637. enabled the city council and POP to It’s been used to pay for, among other DONATION ADOPTION EDUCATION GRANT Supported 141 organisations in provide specific support more quickly things, ‘zoom’ licenses during lockdown; Plymouth of which 80% are regarded and to ensure that the work of smaller, a camping trip for refugees and sports as ‘small’ ie with a turnover of less than grassroots organisations was more visible. equipment for young people. £100,000 a year Furthermore, the results of the survey The POP Collectives Fund has played a vital role in POP reshaping its Secured nearly half a million awarded a total of £36,000 to 12 funding and support offer in the following pounds in grant funding - £490,735 unique partnerships which have been months: for 40 organisations busy spending the money on the Raised £385,735 from 50 separate collective good. For example, The CARE FOSTER DONATION AIDresponded ORGAN 170 organisations in FOOD Plymouth bids for Covid-response work/emergency Radical Minski Nudge Collective has funds opened an ethical shop in The Plot on 34% had a turnover of less than £100k Union Street, offering colourful creative, Provided training to more than 100 and repurposed, clothing while Digital community groups in, for example, legal 19% had a turnover of less than £500k Inclusion has been structures; financial management and collecting, repairing social impact and dispensing surplus Held 39 training & networking ‘tech’ such as laptops; “For anyone starting up, or without any DONATION NGO RETIREMENT HOME sessions phones and NETWORK tablets to background in volunteering and charity indivuals and families work, POP ideas is invaluable.” in Stonehouse. In our latest survey, 98% of “If I’m stuck on something, then you respondents reportedORGAN DONATION PHILANTROPHY HUMAN RESOURCES FOSTER CARE NextCHARITY up, the funky Street-to-Scale guys are brilliant at finding solutions “overall the quality of POP Ideas fund has enabled POP to work with with a smile.” is excellent or good”. recipients less-likely to be eligible for “Friendly, approachable, happy to say money under ‘traditional’ funding if there’s something they don’t know applications, such as, ‘people with a about but have amazing networks to good idea’ who are not part of a formal find answers.” organisation, and young people.

CHAR

SOC RESPONS

CHARITY

LINE ICONS

MEDICA

Survey Feedback

Can you help? POP is looking for new Trustees

Efford Community Network

Efford 07380 309586 Glenholt 07849 413125

Are you interested in being a part of our driving force for community change? We’re ADOPTION EDUCATION constantly striving for a diverse board ofDONATION trustees. This year we would particularlyGRANT like to invite young people to work with us and to share their perspective as part of the POP Board. POP Trustee Nomination Form: www.tfaforms.com/4923257 POP is here to support citizen action and networks through funding, collaboration and capacity building. Get involved - check out our website and become a member!

POP’s Learning & Collaboration Fund (now closed) supported eight SOCIAL REGISTERED projects with £5000 ranging from payingCHARITY

RESPONSIBILITY for a pilot for a literary festival; plastic

ALM

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www.plymouthoctopus.org FOOD AID

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20 October 2021

@PlymChronicle

It’s the little things that matter so much... THE

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms Plymouth

Experience It’s early September as write this and it’s impossible not to reflect on the events in August here in Plymouth.

The tragedy in Keyham shocked our community to the core. I was out of the city at the time but seeing the reports as the news was breaking was scary and heartbreaking. As the major 24/7 news cycle has moved on, the families of the victims certainly haven’t. I can only imagine what those who have been closely affected are going through. What is quite remarkable about this time is how the city has pulled together. First responders did what they had to initially and it wasn’t long before the wider community rallied around. Food parcels were delivered to those in the immediate vicinity. There was a candlelit vigil, a minute’s silence across the city, local volunteers from the street pastors initiative made themselves available for a few weeks

after the event to be a listening ear to anyone The most impactful aspect for me however who needed it. Churches in the local community were the hundreds of tributes laid on the corner opened their doors around the clock and the of Henderson Place and Wolseley Road. hashtag #PlymouthTogether No one single item stood out trended on social media for and none of them were grand quite some time as people by themselves. There were shared messages of support flowers, cards, balloons and and condolence and unity in other similar items. the face of such great darkness. It was a combination of the I am so proud to be a born sheer number of items and the and raised Plymothian and messages on each one. Each never more so than in is past item was heartfelt, each item month. had been given deliberately and It wasn’t long after the with real care. shootings that the city played They were a powerful host to the world premiere of reminder that people do care. The Hatchling and the West Often in life it is the little End Carnival took place in the things that make a big impact. city centre. To witness crowds  The entire response in coming together to celebrate Plymouth said to me that life Dave Simpson life and enjoy themselves after and love will always win out. such a difficult 18 months and Even through the very darkest such a horrendous event a few of times. weeks before was truly heart warming.  Finding life in and through challenging times

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

New plans to make walking and cycling easier in Plymouth A consultation on Plymouth’s first Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) has been launched.

Running until October 8, the consultation seeks views on improvements which have been identified for 10 routes, six walking and four cycling, in order to help residents undertake walking and cycling journeys more easily. The improvements would look to benefit cyclists and pedestrians on the identified routes through a variety of measures, these could include new cycle lanes, resurfacing, introducing safe crossings or enhancing access points. The six walking routes are: • Union Street (Stonehouse Bridge to Western Approach Junction) • Victoria Park to Plymouth Railway Station, via Pennycomequick Roundabout • City Centre (Jigsaw Park), via North Hill (B3250) to Mutley Plain • City Centre (Jigsaw Park) to Lipson (Ladysmith Road) via Regent Street and Gascoyne Place • Charles Cross to Gwyn Road (Mount

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Roundabout, Cattedown, to Mutley Plain (end of Greenbank Road) • Eastlake Street/Cornwall Street via Fletemoor Road and Mutley Plain to St Budeaux Wolseley Road Walking and cycling is good for physical and mental health and switching to more active travel journeys will improve health, quality of life, the environment and even the local economy. The LCWIP will help to improve conditions for active travel by: • Identifying cycling and walking infrastructure improvements for future investment in the short, medium and long term. • Ensuring that consideration is given to cycling and walking within both local planning and transport policies and strategies. • Making the case for future funding for walking and cycling infrastructure. Plymouth City Council continues to make significant investment in active travel with £8.95 million being invested in walking and cycling infrastructure between 2016 and 2020 which, combined with complementary programmes such as Plymotion, has allowed us to continue progress in this area. The LCWIP consultation aims to build upon the recent Active Travel Fund survey where 70 per cent of respondents agreed that it was extremely or very important to promote walking and cycling in the city. Councillor Jonathan Drean, Cabinet Member for Transport said: “More than 2,000 people took the time to respond to our recent Active Travel Fund survey, this was hugely appreciated, as the feedback will help to inform Council strategy. “I was very encouraged that the results of the recent survey showed that the vast majority of residents consider walking and cycling as an easy and practical choice for how they travel around the city. “We are committed to investing in active travel and the LCWIP will help future investment in walking and cycling infrastructure, so please take part in the consultation, as your feedback is really important.” The LCWIP plan and short feedback survey is available at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ localcyclingandwalkinginfrastructureplan

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22 October 2021

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Free school meals available for more Plymouth children

Meet Mildred the mammoth! The Box has finally been able to give its popular woolly mammoth a name – Mildred.

Parents and carers in Plymouth are being urged to check whether they’re eligible for Free School Meals for their children, which can also attract extra income for their children’s schools.

A nourishing meal in the middle of the day helps children and young people to do well at school, and free school meals make a genuine saving in the household budget. Schools benefit financially as well: for every child registered for a free school meal the school receives extra income, (Pupil Premium), which helps the school provide more and better learning facilities for the children. It’s a real win-win! Free school meals are automatically provided for all school-children in a government funded school in Reception, Year 1, or Year 2. After that, parents need to apply and free meals are available to many more families than are currently applying. Once your child is registered for free school meals, they are eligible until they finish the phase of schooling (primary or secondary) they’re in on 31 March 2022. Parents who have applied before and were not eligible can re-apply at any time – so if your circumstances have changed, now’s the time to apply again. And if your child has moved from primary to secondary and you haven’t set up free school meals yet, check if you’re eligible. As a quick guide, if you’re in receipt of any of the following you may be eligible: • Income Support • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • income-related Employment and Support Allowance • support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 • the guaranteed element of Pension Credit • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190) • Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit • Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get) Checking eligibility and making an application is straightforward: check online at www.gov.uk/apply-free-schoolmeals. If you don’t have a good internet connection or need some help with the process, ask at your child’s school for guidance to make it even easier.

Mildred the Mammoth winners (from left) Melvyn Griffiths, Nicola Johns, Councillor Mark Deacon, Joshua Deacon, Tammy Walker and Ann Lewis

The old English name dates from Anglo-Saxon times and means ‘gentle strength’. It was suggested by six people as part of a competition that ran earlier this summer. They include a local mum who took part on behalf of her 21-month old son. All six were thrilled to learn their suggestion had been chosen. The competition to name the life sized furry female received a whopping 1,316 suggestions from members of the public. The woolly mammoth has been a big hit with visitors since The Box opened last autumn and is a focal point in its natural history gallery which is filled with thousands of specimens from its collections. Fossils show that woolly mammoths were roaming around Plymouth 35,000 years ago. They became extinct at the end of the last Ice Age, amid a warming climate and widespread human hunting. Councillor Mark Deacon, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and Sport said: “The

‘Name our mammoth’ competition had a brilliant response with a wide range of suggestions – some of which were really clever and some of which really made us laugh. “We’ve gone for something quite traditional in the end, but with some real meaning behind it.” The Box’s natural history gallery includes a lot of information about climate change and the mammoth is a symbol of how fierce yet fragile nature can be. It makes a name that means ‘gentle strength’ a really fitting choice.” The winning entrants in the competition are (in alphabetical order) Melvyn Griffiths, Nicola Johns, Jo Kerswill, Ann Lewis, Oliver Roberts – nominated by mum Rachael Eadie – and Tammy Walker. They visited The Box last week to see the woolly mammoth and receive some mammoth-themed prizes. To meet Mildred visit The Box from 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays. Entry is free and there is no need to book a ticket. Find out more from www. theboxplymouth.com.

he injured his legs and needed surgery. The charity has been an absolute lifeline for us and we were so pleased to be able to plan something and raise some money in return so they can go on to support more dogs like Atos.”  Explosive search dog Atos came from the Netherlands to join the Ministry of Defence and was partnered with PC Addems and stationed at the Atomic Weapons Establishment in Berkshire, for five years. The duo helped to keep members of the public and public figures, like the Royals, safe at large events.

Atos was forced to retire early in 2019 after being diagnosed with chronic arthritis and developing a fear of travelling in the car.  Claire added: “Atos started to suffer from arthritis – due to the pressure he’d put on his body during his years of service – and as he got older his travel fears worsened. It was decided that Atos would retire and he then became my responsibility. “The Army take care of food and medical costs during the dog’s working life but, as soon as they retire, all costs become the sole responsibility of the owner.”   Just a year into his retirement, in September 2020, Atos ruptured his cruciate ligament during a walk. The Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a newly established charity, stepped in to help Claire and Atos, and pay for the bill; the first grant it had issued to a dog in need. When he ruptured his other cruciate ligament at the start of 2021, the charity offered to cover the costs again.   Charity trustee Kieran Stanbridge said: “Police and military police dogs have excellent care while they’re in service but there’s no doggy pension for them when they retire and that means that whoever takes them on when their career ends has to foot all of the bills. With many working dogs uninsurable, this can be a huge financial commitment.   “We’d like to say a big thank you to Chris and everyone who has donated to his fundraiser; this money will allow us to help other unsung canine heroes who have done so much for this country.” • To donate to Chris’s fundraising challenge visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/chrisparsons-atos

Marathon fundraiser for Thin Blue Paw charity A Devon man walked 120 miles across the whole county to raise money for a charity that supported his dog – a retired Ministry of Defence police sniffer dog – in his time of need.

Chris Parsons, 37, from Ivybridge, embarked on the challenge on August 22 starting out in North Devon and finishing on August 26 – springer spaniel Atos’s ninth birthday – in Wembury on the south coast. Chris, an accounts manager, walked 120 miles and was entirely self-sufficient during the challenge, wild camping at night. His partner, Ministry of Defence dog handler PC Claire Addems, and retired police dog Atos went to meet Chris at the finish line along with some other handlers and upand-coming four-legged recruits from the Ministry of Defence Police dog unit.  Chris said: “I’d heard of the Two Moors Walk which stretches across Exmoor and Dartmoor but I wanted to walk the entire county, north to south. I did lots of research and set my course as well as stopping points where I could camp at night and ensure there was a shop or pub nearby for refreshments!  “I knew it would be a big challenge and I wanted to push myself physically and mentally. I had to get all of the kit to ensure I was comfortable during the challenge.  “I really enjoyed the challenge and was lucky to have good weather although I did suffer from blisters and swollen ankles so I was glad to see the finish line on my final day; especially with everyone there waiting for me!”  So far, Chris has raised more than £1,600 for the Thin Blue Paw

Chris Parsons with his partner Claire Addems and retired police dog Atos

Foundation, a national dog welfare charity that supports working and retired police dogs. The charity which issues financial grants to the owners of retired police dogs to assist with management of conditions and pay for life-saving surgery - supported Atos when he ruptured both cruciate ligaments and needed two separate surgeries, costing more than £4,000 in total.  Claire said: “I’m so proud of Chris for taking on this challenge and for raising so much money for the Thin Blue Paw Foundation. Chris and Atos are the best of friends and Chris was so worried about Atos when

USEFUL It’s a marathon effort, as Argyle, Albion and NUMBERS October 2021

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Patriots all team up for Plymouth charity Plymouth’s three major sports clubs have joined together in a team that will be running the 2021 Virtual Virgin London Marathon for well-known local charity, Friends and Families of Special Children.

When the charity secured three places for the event, they approached Plymouth Argyle, Plymouth Albion and Plymouth City Patriots basketball team for runners - and all were more than happy to help. So, on Sunday October 3, ‘Team Friends and Families of Special Children’ will be putting their best feet forward on a route they have designed especially for the occasion, taking in the home grounds of the three clubs and the charity’s Bretonside HQ at Virginia House Centre in Peacock Lane. The team are Argyle’s Home Park facilities manager Gavin Priest, Albion company secretary Ellie Venables, and Patriots superfan, Pete Waumsley. It’s hoped that first team players from each of the clubs will be joining their club colleagues for part of the marathon. Pete is the most experienced runner of the three, having clocked up over 30 marathons, including the London Marathon on 13 occasions, and he has an impressive personal best of 2:35:57. He said: “We’ll be starting with a lap around Albion’s ground at Brickfields and then running around the Pavilions, home of The Patriots although if we can, we’d like to run around the court itself. “We’ll also be taking in The Hoe and the charity’s building, and then it’s uphill all the way to Bickleigh and Marjons, where Plymouth City Patriots train, before coming back into the city and ending up at Home Park. Ideally, we’d love to finish with a lap inside the ground, in the area between the pitch and the stands. “It’s a challenging route, but it’s not about times, it’s about the cause,” added Pete. “And on a personal level, it’s a real privilege for me to be able to do this in support of such a great charity.” This will be Ellie’s second full official marathon, having completed the 2018 London Marathon in a time of just over four hours. She runs at least four times a week and in December, did a 26-miler with a friend. Her preparations for the Virtual London Marathon include running the Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon and the Torbay Half Marathon, both in September.

Marathon team pictured with the Friends and Families of Special Children mascot (from left) Patriots’ Pete Waumsley, Argyle’s Gavin Priest and Albion’s Ellie Venables

External affairs director at Citizens Advice Plymouth, Thomas Godwin explained what this means for claimants. He said: “As it stands, the government is set to slash benefits by £20 a week equivalent to £1,040 a year - from October 6. The exact date people will see the cut kick in will depend on the day they get their Universal Credit payment. For many, this means September will be the last month they see their benefits paid at existing levels. “The cut will hit nearly six million people on Universal Credit. This includes 27,028 people in Plymouth. According to the latest available figures, approximately 40% of those in the city (10,093) are already in work but are entitled to some level of the benefit.” He said that while every Universal Credit claim will drop by around £85 a month, the proportion of income claimants will lose will vary depending on their circumstances. Single people under 25 are set to be hit by the biggest drop. Monthly standard allowances will drop: • By a quarter for single claimants under

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“I’m always up for a challenge,” she said, “and this route will definitely be a challenge! When the charity approached us, as a club, we were very keen to help. Friends and Families of Special Children is a fantastic local charity that helps many families in our community. So bring it on and let’s raise lots of money for them!” As an experienced triathlete of 10 years, Gavin is used to running marathons - after completing the first two disciplines, a long-distance swim and a gruelling bike ride: “I’m more built for endurance than speed,” he said. “Pete will have finished, gone home, showered, and come back by the time I finish!” Gavin, who oversees all the health and safety requirements and day to day maintenance at Home Park, isn’t put off by the hilly route, however: “I’m used to hills and tough routes, so I’m fine with that. I won’t need to do any special training for it, I’ll just carry on with my usual triathlon training. And if it all goes well, I’ll be doing the Manchester Marathon the following weekend!” Friends and Families of Special Children currently supports over 1,700 families with disabled children and young adults in the Plymouth and surrounding areas. Services include specially catered activities, a Fun and Freedom Club for young carers, a sensory room for children with profound and multiple learning disabilities, and advice and information.

Chair of Trustees, Kay O’Shaughnessy, said: “We’ve been fortunate to have worked with Plymouth’s major sports clubs down the years, and many of our young people and their families have benefitted enormously from being able to access a range of sporting activities which are not otherwise readily available to them. For example, through our Fun and Freedom Club, our young carers have been able to join in with bespoke multi-sports at Plymouth Albion, led by Albion players at their stadium. “At Argyle, their Community Trust has facilitated several fantastic opportunities during school holidays, including football and multi-sport activity days for young people aged 7-15 with a disability or additional need. And we have very kindly been given lots of tickets so that some of our families could have the opportunity to watch basketball games at the Pavilions.” Kay added: “Many of our families face barriers in relation to health, well-being, levels of physical activity and socialising, and all these wonderful opportunities have had a positive impact. They have given our young people the chance to explore their full potential, improve their life chances and aspirations - and, importantly have fun!”Anyone wishing to support the marathon effort should visit https://virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/virtual-london-marathon More information is available on the charity’s website: www.friendsandfamilies.org.uk

Citizens Advice Plymouth campaigns against benefits cut More than 27,000 people in Plymouth are set to have their benefits cut this autumn - and Citizens Advice Plymouth is campaigning against the cut in Universal Credit.

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25, from £344 to £257.33 • By a fifth for single claimants over 25, from £411.51 to £324.84 • By 17% for joint claimants under 25, from £490.60 to £403.93 • By 14% for joint claimants over 25, from £596.58 to £509.91 Thomas added that people who are worried about their income are not alone and there is support available. “Everyone’s situation is different which is why speaking to a trained adviser may be helpful. Depending on your circumstances, support could include a number of options.” These include: • A benefits check. This will help you verify you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to. You can use Citizens Advice Plymouths online benefit calculator as a starting point. • Support with essential costs. You can contact your Plymouth City Council to see if they can give you any extra help from a hardship fund, including food or essential things like clothes. - Check your local council] on GOV.UK. • Help with debt. Some bills can cause you more problems than others if you don’t pay them. Rent or mortgage arrears, energy bills and council tax are your priority debts as there can be serious consequences if you don’t pay them. Citizens Advice Plymouth can provide guidance if you’re struggling

with bills and has a specialist Debt Advice service for those who live, work and study in Plymouth • Free school meals. If you have children and you get certain benefits, you might be able to get free school meals for your children. • Food bank vouchers. If you can’t afford the food you can ask for a referral from Citizens Advice Plymouth or an organisation that’s already supporting you - for example, a charity, school or children’s centre - for a food bank voucher. Thomas added: “Many people seeking our advice at the moment are unaware of an impending cut to their Universal Credit. Understandably, when they realise their benefits are set to drop by £20 a week it causes a lot of anxiety. “Previous analysis by Citizens Advice shows £20 a week is equivalent to six days of energy costs or three days of food costs for a low-income family. “If you’re in this position, remember you are not alone and there is support available. As a first step, make sure you’re checking your online journal regularly so you know how much your benefits will reduce by and when. Citizens Advice Plymouth, which is campaigning against the cut, is on hand to help you if you’re worried about making ends meet”

Age UK Plymouth 01752 256020 Adoption UK 0844 848 7900 Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 088 Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Childline 0800 1111 Christians Against Poverty (Debt Advice) 0800 328 0006 Citizens Advice 0300 3309 043 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Action 01752 651800 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Drug Addicts Anonymous: Helpline 07818260811 Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre 01752 203670 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 National Christian Helpline 0300 111 0101 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Osteoporosis Support Group 075958 500314 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 116 123 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 Stop Hate Crime 24/7 Helpline 0800 138 1625 Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 West Country Landlords Assn 01752 242980

Travel RAC Green Flag Rail Travel, national enquiries Plymouth Citybus National Express Coaches Brittany Ferries Cremyll Ferry Torpoint Ferry Tourist Information Passport Office, National Helpline

08000 828282 0800 400600 08457 484950 01752 662271 08717 818181 08705 360360 01752 822105 01752 812233 01752 266030 0870 5210410

Entertainment Theatre Royal 01752 267222 Barbican Theatre 01752 267131 Devonport Playhouse 01752 606507 Plymouth Athenaeum Theatre 01752 266079 Plymouth Pavilions 01752 936363 Plymouth Pavilions Ticket Store 03337 727727 Cineworld 03303 33444 Vue Cinema 0345 308 4620 Tourist Information 01752 306330 National Trust Saltram 01752 333500 Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery 01752 304774 Plymouth Arts Centre 01752 206114

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Plymouth Life Centre 01752 606900 Brickfields Recreation Ground 01752 563320 Manadon Football Dev’ment Centre 01752 201918 Plympton Swimming Pool 0870 300 0020 Plymouth Pavilions 0845 146 1460 Megabowl, Coxside 0871 5501010 Tourist Information 01752 306330 The Beckly Centre, Plymstock 01752 484433

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Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

24 October 2021

@PlymChronicle

Advertise to

over 21,000 New online hub is launched

A new online hub has been launched to help support all those impacted by the tragic incident in Keyham.

The site: www.plymouthtogether. co.uk includes the latest information on where local people can access care and wellbeing support in the city and which organisations can provide a listening ear and reassurance. In addition, the website includes information regarding the new Plymouth Together Fund – providing a secure and safe way for fundraising activity to take place, information about future memorial activity and an online form for people to get in touch. Over the past two weeks, dozens of organisations have rallied together to provide support for Keyham and communities impacted by the tragedy. Council community engagement staff, educational psychologists, and youth workers have been based in Keyham at community hubs providing outreach support with an

army of other local organisations (see below for new location). In addition, the council has provided cleansing support, organised memorial events, and is now working with partners on a longer term recovery programme for the area. Ward councillors have also been actively supporting the community. The website is from the Community Recovery Co-ordination Group, which has been set up by Plymouth City Council to look at how together with partners it can support and enable the communities impacted by the tragic events to recover and rebuild.  Over the weeks and months ahead, further information will be added to the website, to ensure it is the main place where people can receive the most factual and up-to-date information. Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “What happened in Keyham was devastating, the impact will be felt for years to come. It is therefore essential

that all partners come together to ensure a joined-up approach to supporting the communities’ long road to recovery. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get help. This website will be a one-stop-shop. And over the weeks and months ahead we will continue to populate it with the information and tools that the community want and need. “I would like to say a big thank you to all those who have provided help so far. From council staff, the Police, voluntary sector, ward councillors, the local MP, businesses, all those who have raised money and all those who have helped those directly impacted. These acts of kindness demonstrate that if we continue to work together, we will help Keyham to get through these dark times.” For those looking for support in the Keyham area, the Reassurance Hub, is now located at the Wolseley Trust Community Centre, Wolseley Close, PL2 3BY. It is open from 9am to 5pm.

Tributes to be preserved in memory of Keyham victims Memorial items left in Keyham will be kept as a permanent tribute to those who lost their lives in the attack. Following consultation with residents of Keyham and the families of those who lost their lives, council staff joined members of the local community, to begin to remove the sea of flowers, plants, cards, teddies, candles and balloons that have been placed in key locations throughout the local area, from the beginning of September.  Initially all the donations will be moved to a local secure area, where items will be digitally captured. Then, a range of petals from the donations will be pressed and cast in resin, stored safely for the bereaved families and local community to view at a later date. Those that have wilted will be turned into compost, and used for future green space memorials.  Soft toys left as a tribute will be cleaned and stored and in future they will be given to

children’s charities such as the Teddy Trust who give soft toys to children experiencing traumatic events all over the world. Messages and cards left will be kept by The Box, and stored for historical record at www. theboxplymouth.com/plymouth-together. The Box will be turning its Cottonian Research Room into a drop-in space where people can leave their messages of condolence until September 17.  Members of the public can call in at any time between 10am and 12pm every day except Mondays. Green card and stencils will be available for them to create their own hearts and write their tributes.  A facilitator will be on hand at all times to guide and support people. The hearts will then be displayed in The Box for everyone to see. Longer-term, they will be documented and held in the city archives.  Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “The number of physical

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tributes to those who lost their lives has been very touching. We know that each one came from the heart, and meant something to the local community. We want to permanently capture each donation.  “We have been working closely with the local community to make sure that these acts of kindness are preserved and protected. Over the past week or so, we have already made sure that many of them have been protected from the rain. “Our preservation work will ensure that longer term, those who lost their lives will not be forgotten and their spirit and memories will live on forever. “Over the weeks and months ahead there will be further tributes and memorials planned, and I am pleased that The Box has been able to facilitate a further opportunity for people to pass on their messages.” For people planning other memorials or tributes, please get in touch at: plymouthtogether@plymouth.gov.uk

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Chronicle Plymouth

September 2021

The Royal British Legion is encouraging Plymouth families to join the Poppy Run For details See Page 3

Or online at cornerstonevision.com

# PLYMOUTH TOGETHER Students at Plympton Academy and Hele’s School have celebrated their A level resuls For details See Page 10

Plympton & Plymstock

The Box has announced the winners of a competition to name their woolly mammoth See Page 22

ALSO INSIDE:

• Dial the Experts • Local news and views

• Cross Rhythms Experience • Useful numbers

And they’re oﬀ ! Thousands of spectators ﬂocked to Sherford on September 6 to watch the start of Stage Two of the Tour of Britain cycle race. A Lead-Out Parade with local youngsters, cycling instructors, key workers and a women’s cycling group got the race off to a great start in the sun • Story and pictures - See page 13

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