The Plymouth Chronicle Plympton & Plymstock August 2020

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Plympton & Plymstock

August 2020

Gables Dog and Cats Home are appealing for help fund the care for an old, battered cat called Busted Billy See page 19

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 to 6

St Luke’s Hospice are appealing for supporters to ‘go the extra mile’ to raise funds for its vital work See page 17

ALSO INSIDE: • Dial the Experts • Cross Rhythms • Community Job Experience Shop • Useful numbers

Marathon fund-raiser for NSPCC Colleagues at the NSPCC Centre in Plymouth have embarked on a month-long effort to raise money to help fund the work in the city protecting children from sexual abuse.

Sarah Cox, children’s service practitioner, who organised the campaign, is pictured here with her dog Paws during one of their fund-raising walks • See story on page 9

2 August 2020

2 August 2020

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Keeping Plymouth safe must be a team effort Plymouth has faced some huge challenges from COVID-19 in recent months - and we have risen to them.

Everyone has come together to help keep Plymouth safe and as a result we thankfully have a relatively low number of cases in Plymouth.

As events in other cities such as Leicester have shown, the risks of COVID-19 are still very much with us and we cannot afford to lower our guard.

We need to work together to protect each other and support our local businesses, many of

whom have really suffered during the lockdown.

As the lockdown measures continue to be eased it has been great to see so many businesses reopening safely.

We need to help ensure they can stay open by following the simple steps we are now used to – safe distancing, washing hands, wearing face coverings and self-isolating and getting tested if we have any symptoms.

The Government has now confirmed that we need to wear a face covering when shopping to help protect each other.

This is a minor inconvenience for supporting the NHS and protecting livelihoods.

The City Council maintained many services throughout the COVID-19 lockdown and we have now reopened many of those that we had to close in line with Government instructions.

We are working to bring the remainder back when it is safe to do so and appreciate everyone bearing with us while we work on this.

Please continue to stay safe. This is a team effort and if we all work together we will continue to save lives and protect the NHS.

We all have a role in protecting city from a COVID-19 outbreak A plan is now in place to reduce cases of coronavirus in Plymouth and protect residents in the event of a local outbreak – and we all have a role to play.

The Local Outbreak Management Plan has been agreed as the city takes responsibility for providing a fast response to any future outbreaks of the virus to prevent it spreading.

It sets out how partner organisations including the City Council, NHS, Public Health England and the police will work together to protect residents and support schools, care homes and businesses.

The aim is to work closely with the NHS Test and Trace service and ensure that local knowledge, networks and contacts are used to protect residents and ensure the needs of all members of the community are considered.

It is essential that anyone who has symptoms gets tested.

The plans are being overseen by the Plymouth COVID-19 Local Outbreak Engagement Board, which is chaired by the leader of the Council and includes the Director of Public Health and senior leaders from the NHS, Police, Clinical Commissioning

“We need the support of all residents in ensuring that NHS Test and Trace is as effective as it can be and for communities, businesses and organisations to take actions when needed to stop the virus spreading.”

Dr Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health

Group, Council and the business community.

The board held its first meeting in July.

Dr Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health

for Plymouth, said: “This plan is about the city working together to protect its residents, bringing all the knowledge and expertise that exists here together.

“We recognise that easing the measures that have been in place in recent months to stop the spread of COVID-19 is important for restarting the economy and relieving the burdens that people have had to shoulder but we need to do this very carefully.

“The risks of a second wave are significant and have the potential to cause significant ill health and loss of life.

“We will take a cautious, system-wide approach and will be carefully monitoring the data and intelligence so we can address with issues quickly.

“We need the support of all residents in ensuring that NHS Test and Trace is as effective as it can be and for communities, businesses and organisations to take actions when needed to stop the virus spreading.

“We will be working closely with organisations and communities across the city to help ensure everyone is working together to reduce the risk of an outbreak.”

Councillor Tudor Evans Leader of Plymouth City Council

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Let’s work together to keep safe

August 2020

3

Big change means no change in city car parks Parking in Council-run car parks and on-street bays is being made cash-free as part of a package of measures to help people stay safe from COVID-19.

Photo: visitplymouth.com

Pubs and restaurants are open again but we all need to do our bit to keep it that way, the City Council says.

Going out for a drink or a meal is different and to stay safe and prevent an outbreak we need to follow some new rules.

Council Leader Tudor Evans says it is vital that people who want to have a drink and enjoy themselves do so responsibly.

He said: “Businesses have been working incredibly hard to make sure you are safe when you are out and we’ve been working with them to help them prepare for opening.

“There are measures in place in all premises to ensure the virus does not spread and we all need to follow them.

“Coronavirus is still with us, it is still deadly. Plymouth cannot afford to become another Leicester, our businesses can’t afford it and they need our support to stay open.

“We are working closely with the police to avoid a repeat of the public disorder and littering issues we had on the Barbican before the pubs reopened.

“Please, for the sake of the rest of us keep safe, keep your distance.”

Council to buy local to support city businesses The City Council has launched a plan to ensure Plymouth benefits as much as possible whenever it spends money.

The Spend-4-Plymouth initiative, which is part of the Council’s Resurgam plan to support the city’s economy following COVID-19, aims to make sure all spending has concrete benefits to the city’s residents and environment.

It wants to buy Plymouth goods, works and services, use Plymouth businesses and pump some life blood into the supply chain.

Procurement regulations means that this is not easy as the Council has to comply with ‘fair competition’ regulations.

Buying local is already a key factor in the Council’s procurement and it spends almost half of its budget on businesses within PL postcodes, but now it plans to up the ante, committing to a 10 per cent increase over the next two years.

It also plans to set up a Plymouth Supplier Directory, where local suppliers can advertise their capabilities to local buyers.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GOING OUT Before you go

• If you can, book ahead – check out the pub or restaurant’s website or social media beforehand.

Payment machines in city centre car parks no longer accept cash, to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

You now need to pay through an app or by credit or debit card.

The aim is for all parking machines – including on-street – to be completely cash-free by the end of Summer.

You will be asked to pay by RingGo, via the mobile phone app, website or by phone.

Details of payment methods accepted in each car park can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/parkingandtravel/ findsomewherepark.

To download the RingGo app visit www.myringgo.co.uk.

Sitting down

• If you’ve not booked and your favourite place is full you won’t get in • Once inside, you will be asked to stay seated • Pubs have inside seating but with two metres or screens to separate tables

Standing up

• If a pub has an outside area you can stand up and drink but you must try to keep two metres apart

Taking orders

• Please listen to staff and security staff – they are trying to keep everyone safe • You may need to follow different routes in and out of the buildings • If you aren’t social distancing you may be asked to leave.

Hundreds of Plymouth firms benefit from COVID-19 grants More than 350 small businesses in Plymouth impacted

by COVID-19 have been given a much-needed lifeline through grants paid out by Plymouth City Council.

The grants have helped support Plymouth’s fishing community, visitor economy, language schools, nurseries, charities and many other small businesses.

The Council was responsible for distributing the £2.27 million Discretionary Grant Fund, which has protected almost 1,700 jobs.

The aim was to help businesses that weren’t eligible for the Small Business Grant Fund and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund, but which have significant fixed costs and desperately needed financial support.

A dedicated team of Council staff worked quickly to verify and process applications.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “We’ve worked quickly and efficiently to get this much-needed financial support out to as many businesses as possible, as fast as possible. Our staff have worked incredibly hard to not only set up and handle the applications quickly, but also to score and evaluate them.

“We expected demand was likely to outstrip supply and that turned out to be the case. We had to prioritise according to the Government guidelines to ensure the money went to those in most need, but we could have done so much more if we had been given access to more funding, or allowed to keep the under spend on the first grant scheme announced.

“We’ll continue to fight for our local businesses by lobbying for more financial support – although lockdown measures are easing, this is far from over and we will do everything we can to protect Plymouth jobs and businesses.”

4 August 2020

4 August 2020

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Vans welcome at Chelson Meadow again Council From Monday 20 July Chelson Meadow recycling centre will be accepting all types of waste except soil, rubble, tiles and ceramics.

Vans are now allowed but only between midday and 6pm as mornings tend to be busier. Trailers will be allowed from Tuesday 21 July, again only in the afternoon.

Both vans and trailers still need a permit

and the same exclusions and restrictions apply as before.

If you don’t already have a permit the easiest way to apply is online at www. plymouth.gov.uk/vanpermit. Staff at Chelson Meadow are not able to accept or process application forms or issue permits on site.

Outstanding applications that were made just before lockdown are being processed and permits will be issued as soon as

possible. New applications should take no more than a week to process.

The Council is asking people to be prepared for longer waiting times as vans and trailers take longer to unload than cars.

Vehicles may be turned away if queues build up and start to impact on the road network.

Please check all the information at www. plymouth.gov.uk/recyclingcentres before setting out.

Majority of City Council services now available as lockdown is eased More than 90 per cent of Council services in Plymouth are now available as Government COVID-19 restrictions are eased.

Most services are now operating with measures to ensure the safety of customers and staff and plans are in place for resuming the remainder in line with Government guidance.

While many Council services, such as bin collections, continued throughout COVID-19, some had to be suspended in line with the Government instructions to stop the virus spreading.

The majority of Council staff have been working from home, with many redeployed to critical services such as contacting vulnerable residents who were shielding to ensure they received the support they needed, providing supplies of PPE to care homes and quickly organising urgent grants for hundreds of Plymouth businesses.

Most office-based Council employees

continue to work from home in line with Government guidance.

Refuse collections have been maintained through COVID-19 and, to ensure this could be continued with fewer staff available, garden waste collections were suspended.

Garden waste collections will now start by 24 August.

Chelson Meadow Household Waste Recycling Centre is open with social distancing measures in place. Staff resources are being prioritised on operating this site safely, so the smaller centre at Weston Mill remains closed.

All public toilets are now open and additional temporary toilets have been installed on the Hoe and Barbican due to the increase in visitors following the easing of the lockdown measures.

The 1st Stop Shop in New George Street is being prioritised for homelessness enquiries.

To ensure safe distancing it remains closed to visitors with other enquiries, which can be made online or through the contact centre.

Four city libraries are now offering a select and collect service and we are working on plans to enable further limited access to libraries from next month.

All play areas and parks are open, as well as tennis courts and skate parks.

Car parks have remained open through the COVID-19 pandemic and were free for key workers. Charges have been resumed and measures put in place to end cash payments of to prevent customers and staff from having to handle cash.

The Tourist Information Centre on the Barbican is open.

The Government has now announced that outdoor pools can open. This came without warning and there is a lot of work to be do before Tinside Lido and Mount Wise pools can open. We are working with our leisure provider to ensure this can happen as soon as possible.

For the latest information about Council services please check our COVID-19 website at plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19.

Garden waste collections to resume in August Garden waste collections will restart by Monday 24 August – or sooner if possible, the City Council says.

The service would normally have started in April but was paused due to COVID-19 restrictions and the need to prioritise the city’s essential bin collections with reduced staff.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene, said: “We know Plymouth is a city of keen gardeners

During the lockdown months thousands of library users in Plymouth took advantage of the huge range of ebooks, digital magazines and comics and audio books offered by the City Council library service.

Now those who have craved getting their hands on a hard copy book can do so. The Library Service is running a select and collect service.

Customers are now able to select up to three books by genre, format and age category, and staff will arrange a date and time for the books to be collected.

Select and collect marks the first phase of re-opening libraries after lockdown. The Library Service is now working on plans to make more services available in more libraries.

Look out for news about these plans on the Council’s website and also on its Facebook and Twitter pages.

Information about select and collect is available at: plymouth.gov.uk/libraries

and that people want to get rid of their waste but ensuring that residents and crews are safe has to be our number one priority.

“Garden waste collection isn’t a statutory service but we want to reintroduce it as soon as we can do so safely.”

Residents who haven’t already registered for the service are being strongly encouraged to as this will help the Council manage demand and plan rounds.

Councillor Dann added: “By registering,

residents will help us understand where there is the most demand and plan our rounds in the most efficient way.

“As well as helping to keep crews safe, that also helps us reduce our fuel emissions – saving time and money and reducing our carbon footprint.”

In the meantime people are encouraged to compost at home or take their garden waste (not soil or rubble) to Chelson Meadow recycling centre.

registering births, deaths and marriages

Births

Nearly 1,000 babies were born in Plymouth during lockdown and the City Council’s registration team is now busy ensuring their births are registered.

By law births can only be registered at a face-to-face appointment, so the team is making appointments by order of birth date.

If your baby was born before 1 May 2020 you can book a birth registration appointment online.

The Council’s website will be updated when it is ready to start making appointments for babies born after this date.

Marriages

The Government is now allowing wedding ceremonies to take place but with a maximum of 30 people.

Some venues may allow fewer people because of social distancing measures.

The City Council is running ceremonies at the Register Office, at approved premises and at the Council House.

The Register Office is COVID-19 safe so couples can come in to give their notice of marriage, which has to be done faceto-face.

Registering deaths

The Council’s registration service is continuing to register deaths over the phone.

Customers have given positive feedback about this method which is safer for them and for staff.

Funeral and cremation services continue to run at Weston Mill and Efford Cemetery and Crematoria.

Due to ongoing measures to protect people from COVID-19 there a limits on the number of people able to attend services.

The Council is currently offering free webcasting for every funeral.

For the latest information visit www. plymouth.gov.uk

No Mow May is a hit with insects

The City Council’s #NoMowMay policy, where it let a number of verges and banks grow wild, led to some wonderful flashes of colour from Mount Wise to Mannamead and from Peverell to Plympton.

The bees and other insects have loved it and the Council says there has been positive feedback from residents and from nature charities and organisations.

Naturally wildflowers don’t last all year round and some areas are beginning to wilt so the Council is starting a new grass cutting schedule.

This programme will see most areas cut as before but it will leave some areas to let nature do its thing – places like steep banks, or verges that are more use to insects and wildlife than they are to people.

The Council cuts grass on a four weekly schedule. Its teams are still a little depleted, with some staff still shielding and others helping other, more urgent services, but it says it is doing its best to get round the whole city as quickly as it can.

Wild flowers blooming at Mount Wise

August 2020

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City Council secures £51 million funding to help transform green travel options in Plymouth A package of projects designed to help get us out of our cars and onto trains, buses, bikes, walking or using electric vehicles has been awarded a whopping £51 million.

A dozen projects can now get under starters’ orders, thanks to the Transforming Cities Fund which aims to help the city shift up a gear in tackling climate change and making sustainable transport more attractive and convenient.

The projects aim to reduce congestion, improve air quality and help the city prosper by investing in infrastructure to improve sustainable transport on key commuter routes across the city.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure said: “This will completely transform the way people get around in Plymouth.

Collectively, transport makes up around 28 per cent of carbon emissions so it absolutely makes sense to do all we can as a city to get people out of their cars. Small changes make a big difference.”

The schemes will deliver improvements to the walking and cycling network, focussing on filling gaps on the existing strategic cycle network and improving the current infrastructure.

They will provide better and more continuous links to key

growth areas on the main transport routes using sustainable, low carbon travel, which reduces congestion and provides more reliable journey times.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene said: “We are thinking seriously about the type of city we want to pass on to the next generation and this is a fantastic mix of projects that will help plug the gaps in our sustainable transport network as well as bring on-track some exciting ideas for future forms of travel.

“It’s about making the green, carbon-friendly option as convenient and easy as possible for residents, commuters and visitors.”

Plymouth has already secured £7.6 million in the first wave of the Transforming Cities Fund and projects are already making a difference to people’s travel habits. Charge points for electric vehicles are being installed at public and private sites, Real-Time Passenger Information is being upgraded at bus stops, new bus shelters and timetable cases have been installed along our key bus routes and a new off-road cycle route is currently under construction along Southway Drive.

Plymouth’s successful submission is called Productive Plymouth and looks to provide improved transport connections to help people of all ages and backgrounds get to work, education and training as well as hospitals and doctors quickly and easily.

Projects will encourage walking, cycling and public transport Electric power – around 50 mobility hubs with 300 electric vehicle charge points, up to 400 e-bikes, car clubs, solar car ports and a smart booking system. These will be integrated with public transport and mean people can plan journeys to use public and shared transport, in Plymouth and on the main routes into Devon and Cornwall.

City centre walking and cycling links – a long-term programme to transform the city centre’s streets and spaces including de-cluttering and improving pedestrian and cycle movement through the city centre.

Royal Parade improvement scheme – will increase capacity for buses with more bus stops. This road is a key part of the city’s transport network with 158 buses stopping every hour.

Mayflower Street bus stops – upgraded to take pressure off Royal Parade.

Plymouth Station forecourt interchange – a pedestrian priority area linking to railway station concourse improvements which will be funded through the first tranche of TCF funding.

Walk and cycle improvements from Dockyard to city centre – the B3396 Saltash Road from the Dockyard to the city centre corridor to be significantly improved for cycling and walking with a new a 2.7 kilometre path.

Smart signals – modernising our traffic control systems so that it is less susceptible to failure. This will cut congestion on the roads by smoothing traffic flows and prioritising signals in response to demand. This will improve air quality as stop/start driving is inefficient for fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. Re-phased signals for buses approaching junctions will give them a ‘green wave’ through the city.

Woolwell to the George Transport improvement scheme – funding for walking and cycling facilities linking the Park and Ride with Woolwell village to support the planned Woolwell development. Woolwell Roundabout will be replaced with a signal control junction and new signal junction at Woolwell Crescent. The road widening funding is still to be sourced.

Watch out for an electoral registration email The City Council is sending emails to thousands of residents as it begins its annual canvass of households to check voter details are correct.

The canvass checks that the right people are registered to vote at each address and is carried out every year to ensure the electoral register is up-to-date when it is published.

This year the electoral canvass is changing. New rules allow councils to check voter details against other government records, which means some households will not need to respond to their canvass notification.

You must respond if: • any of the information on your notification is incorrect • there are people eligible to register to vote at your address who are not included on the notification • the notification states that you must respond To help reduce the number of paper forms being sent out the Council is initially sending canvass notifications out by email and encouraging those who need to respond

to do it online.

Residents who have not provided an email address (or who do not respond to their email) will receive a paper copy later in the month by post.

Chief Executive and Electoral Registration Officer, Tracey Lee, said: “It used to be a legal requirement that every household respond to their canvass form, even if there were no changes to make.

“New canvassing rules mean that councils can now crosscheck the details they hold against other Government records so not all households will need to respond – although everyone should still check their details are correct.

“We are initially contacting residents who have provided an email address and encouraging them to respond online, to help reduce the number of paper forms we have to post out.

“However, even if you are contacted by post you can still respond online. You can also respond by text – full details are on the form.”

Public Transport Hub at St Budeaux – the two St Budeaux rail stations (Victoria Road and Ferry Road) are both close to bus services. A hub will connect commuters using trains from South East Cornwall and West Devon with employment and healthcare opportunities in the Derriford area. Enabling passengers to change at St Budeaux reduces journey times by sustainable transport compared to travelling via Plymouth Station.

Crownhill Road sustainable transport package – a new bus lane in each direction, with two lanes for general traffic. The bus lanes will be shared with cyclists, separating cyclists from general traffic. The scheme includes bus and cycle facilities at the Crownhill Road/ Budshead Road junction. The improvements will speed up bus journey times, reliability and reduce air pollution.

Work places travel grants – the Council will work with employers to develop and deliver sustainable travel policies and infrastructure so that organisations encourage staff to travel more actively to enjoy health benefits as well as contribute to emissions reductions.

St Budeaux Station to Dockyard walking and cycling route – the A3064 Wolseley Road to Dockyard to have a new 3.2 kilometre cycling and walking path connecting Tamar Bridge to city centre.

6 August 2020

6 August 2020

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Could you change a child’s life by fostering?

Could you help to change a child’s life through fostering?

That’s the question the City Council’s fostering team is asking as it looks for more carers as more children continue to need care during the coronavirus crisis, especially siblings and teenagers.

There are currently more than 450 children and young people in care and there is an ongoing campaign to recruit more carers to provide a local foster home for Plymouth children.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has caused additional strain on the lives of Plymouth families and children and we need your help to provide a safe and supportive environment during these uncertain times.”

When a child cannot be cared for within their family, the Council’s first priority is for them to be looked after by a local authority foster carer, as they usually live in the area near to a child’s family and friends and therefore supports a continued connection.

Fostering is a way to make a real positive difference to a child’s life, providing children and young people with a stable and loving home and the support and encouragement they need to flourish and achieve.

Fostering for Plymouth City Council also offers full training, support and the opportunity to learn new skills.

Plymouth foster carers are financially supported with an allowance. The allowance is designed to cover the daily costs of looking after the child and varies according to the age and needs of the child.

Foster carers receive lots of training to support them to understand the needs of the children they will be caring for.

Tara has been fostering for just over a year.

She said: “So far I am loving the challenge of helping to make a difference. We have laughed many times along our journey and I feel blessed to share those special moments with my foster child.”

Councillor Laing added: “All the children in our care are different, and to meet their needs, we are looking for a wide variety of people.

“Fostering is a challenging role to take on but it can make a real difference. If you feel that you are looking for a challenge then why not get in touch and make that first step that will change a child’s life?”

Anyone wanting to find out more about becoming a foster carer can contact the Council’s fostering team on 01752 308762 or visit www.fosterforplymouth.co.uk

More carers are needed in Plymouth

Major works now under way on one of Plymouth’s biggest ever road projects One of Plymouth’s biggest ever road projects reached a major milestone when work started on a new 140-metre bridge for the Forder Valley Link Road scheme.

Significant earthworks had to be carried out to prepare for the construction of the supports at either end of the bridge. A 133-tonne piling rig has almost finished installing the concrete piles that will provide the foundation to the bridge supports.

The bridge deck, which will carry the road, footway and cycleway, will be built in four sections. There will be no expansion joints or bearings between the sections, making this the largest ‘integral’ bridge in the UK. This means the bridge will need less maintenance, which means less disruption to motorists. As there are no joints the bridge will also provide a smoother ride.

The bridge will run over the Bircham Valley and carry the Forder Valley Link Road, connecting William Prance Road in Derriford and the Forder Valley Road/

Novorossiysk Road junction.

The scheme will create a much-needed alternative link between the A38 and the north of the city, avoiding the often heavily congested Manadon Roundabout and the A386 Tavistock Road.

This will help reduce journey times to and from key destinations such as Derriford Hospital, the University of St Mark and St John and the Plymouth Science Park and improve bus service reliability.

The project also includes safer routes for cyclists and pedestrians and will be complemented by improvements to the Forder Valley (Leigham) roundabout.

It forms part of a wider package of measures that are key to unlocking growth in the north of Plymouth, where over 4,000 new homes are planned over the next 15 years.

Others include the Derriford Transport Scheme, Derriford Hospital Interchange and Marjon Link Road.

For regular scheme updates email fvlrcomms@ balfourbeatty.com with your name and contact details.

Culvert is completed

Culvert completed Work to install the new 160-metre culvert that will carry the Bircham stream through the Forder Valley is now complete.

Giant piling rig at work on the site of the new Forder Valley Link Road

The new culvert, which will run below ground and lead to an ecology pond, is one of the environmental improvements as part of the link road scheme.

A team of engineering experts and ecologists worked closely with the Environment Agency and Natural England to design the culvert so it would replicate a natural habitat for the wildlife to help their transit.

It looks more like a natural water channel than the previous culvert and includes ledges to help otters and other wildlife travel to and from the Forder Valley Nature Reserve.

Rocks are being placed in the bottom of the culvert to mimic a natural riverbed along with fish resting pools.

The culvert will be covered over and the area landscaped as part of the works.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene said: “We promised we would do all we can to ensure any loss to the natural environment in building the new road is more than compensated for. This new culvert will be better for otters and other wildlife travelling along the valley and help us to create better landscaping.”

A new area of recreational land will be provided as part of the scheme, along with an extension to the nearby local nature reserve and links from the new road to paths within the planned Derriford Community Park, connecting local residents and road users with the natural environment.

August 2020

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7

Plymouth NSPCC colleagues take on mammoth month-long walk to help fund work in the city Colleagues at the NSPCC in Plymouth are embarking on a huge fundraising challenge to help secure funds for their service centre and its work preventing child sexual abuse across the city.

The team will be walking, jogging and running almost 2,000 kilometres between them to cover the distance it would take them to visit their sister sites across the UK, including Glasgow.

Each member of the team has set themselves a personal goal, but together they hope to clock up the distance before the end of July.

From the NSPCC service centre in Plymouth, colleagues work with children and young people whose lives have been affected by sexual abuse.

They are also leading the way with the Together Claire White and her goddaughter Grace are taking part in the marathon event

for Childhood partnership programme in the city, which is being piloted in Ernesettle, that aims to prevent child sexual abuse from happening in the first place.

Plymouth is one of four NSPCC Together for Childhood sites, and one of two focusing on the prevention of child sexual abuse. It is those sites in Stoke on Trent, Grimsby and Glasgow that the team is hoping to reach virtually, before covering the distance of the return journey to Plymouth.

Sarah Cox, children’s service practitioner for the NSPCC, who organised the fundraiser, said: “We are all adapting to working differently during the current pandemic and have moved to a virtual world. We are hoping we can invite families back in our centre soon but until then we know the virtual support we are offering is vital in supporting the children, young people and families we work with.

“We wanted to do something as a team to raise some money for our centre and the work we carry out, but also use it as a chance to do something together as a team because currently we are quite separate, working from

Shelley Shaw and her daughter Rocio are walking and running their way through the challenge

our homes and only seeing each other over our computer screens.”

Some team members are planning to run 30km over the course of the month, whilst others are walking 150km during July or attempting 30km of walking in a single day.

The team started their virtual challenge at their offices in Cattedown. Their first stop is 388km away in Stoke on Trent, with a further 213km to Grimsby. The last stretch is double that, a distance of 460km to get them to their furthest destination of Glasgow before attempting the 785km return journey to Plymouth.

The charity relies on public donations for 90 per cent of its income, and like many other charities

Welcome back!

We can’t wait to see you in Plymouth

Plymouth offers a fantastic shopping experience, with an amazing mix of top brand names and creative independents. As businesses continue to reopen, we’re looking forward to welcoming you back to Britain’s Ocean City.

You’ll find there are lots of additional measures in place in the city centre and across the waterfront to help keep you safe. There are also steps you can take to protect yourself and others from the spread of coronavirus.

Plan your visit Check what’s open Not all businesses will be reopening at the same time, and some may have reduced opening hours, so check before you visit. You’ll probably need to book in advance for lots of places, including attractions and restaurants.

You can find out what businesses are open by visiting Shop4Plymouth.co.uk, keeping an eye on our social media channels or by checking the individual businesses’ website and social media before you visit.

Your Safety We’re committed to keeping you safe when you shop, here’s what we’ve done: • New signs in place about social distancing • Enhanced cleaning for the public toilets • The street cleansing team will be paying particular attention to contact points like bins and seats • We’ve made our car parks cash free, so you can pay by card or by phone What you can do: • If you or anyone in your household has symptoms of coronavirus, please stay at home and self-isolate • Remember to follow the latest Gov.uk website guidance on social distancing • Wash your hands regularly, or use hand sanitiser when out and about • Wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth in situations when it’s hard to stay two metres away from people, such as in shops or on public transport • Follow social distancing and queueing instructions set out by businesses, and be mindful that you may have to wait to be allowed in to some stores to allow for a safe shopping experience.

shop4plymouth.co.uk #shop4plymouth

have been hit hard during the pandemic with cancelled or postponed mass participation events.

Caroline Morgan, supporter fundraising manager for the NSPCC in the South West said: “The team at NSPCC Plymouth are still here for children and have been during the lockdown and that’s been possible thanks to the public donations we so heavily rely on as a charity.

“As well as working with children, young people and families during the week through the direct services the team are offering virtually at the moment, they are finding the time to walk, jog, and run almost 2,000km, finding new ways to raise money when they can’t be together.

“They are an incredible team who want the best for children in this city, and all the money they raise will help protect children via the centre’s direct services and community based Together for Childhood activity.”

To follow the progress made by the team throughout the month or to sponsor the fundraising challenge visit Sarah’s JustGiving page at justgiving.com/fundraising/ plymouthservicecentre The team has been inspired by the charity’s Run30 challenge, which encourages people to run, walk or jog 30k in 30 days to help raise vital funds to help the NSPCC still be here for children and young people. For more information on how to sign up for the Run30 challenge visit the NSPCC website at nspcc.org.uk Any adult concerned about the welfare of a child or young person can call the NSPCC helpline for free and confidential advice on 0808 800 5000.

Children can contact Childline for free on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk 365 days a year, and speak to a counsellor about a worry or concern they may have.

8 August 2020

Consultation begins on new dog control measures

Residents and businesses are being asked for their say on the review of a Public Space Protection Order designed to reduce dog fouling.

Plymouth City Council is proposing some changes which include ensuring that dog owners have a means to pick up after their dog as well as extending the dogs on lead zone in Central Park. A change to dog controls on sports pitches is also in the plans.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: “I’m a dog owner and people who do not control their dogs or pick up after them give the rest of us a bad name.

“Residents are constantly telling us that we have to clamp down on dog fouling, and we think that by continuing to have these controls and by making these changes to our current PSPO, we will encourage behaviour change in the very small pocket of the community who let the rest down.

“It is really important to note that none of this is set in stone. We’ve put these ideas, which we think will be to the benefit of everyone, together and it’s now up to residents who let us know if this is what they want..”

Although the proposed new PSPO is largely the same as the original, there a few significant proposals being put before residents.

The first would make it an offence to be out with a dog without means to pick up after it. This policy has been successfully adopted in a number of other areas across the country and will encourage the small minority of dog owners who flout the law to do the right thing.

Another proposed alteration concerns where dogs should be on a lead in Central Park.

Two sets of plans have been drawn up. The first would see the current zone, which covers the Meadow Cafe, Community Sports Hub and Play Space, extended to include Cottage Field, the adjacent grass outside of the Life Centre and also the Milehouse Park and Ride car park.

The other proposal encompasses the area above and extends to the southern boundary of the park, excluding the Wooded Valley.

The current PSPO says that dogs must be on a leads on marked playing pitches. This has led to confusion over the definition of ‘marked.’ The next change suggests removing this caveat, meaning that in all circumstances, dogs must be on leads on any kind of playing pitch. The consultation also seeks views on excluding dogs from playing pitches altogether.

The final significant change will ensure that that dogs must be on leads at the site of the city’s new crematorium on Haye Road, next to Drake Memorial Park.

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) are the legal framework that forbid fouling, regulate where dogs should be on leads and where they are not allowed to go at all, and empowers the Council to issue fixed penalty notices to people who do not follow the rules.

It will be an updated on the existing order, which was introduced in 2017 and by law, must be reviewed every three years.

The consultation can be accessed here - www.plymouth.gov.uk/ dogcontrolconsultation It will close on Sunday August 2 . A published report will follow in September.

8 August 2020

@PlymChronicle

Making Plymouth safe and playful, while supporting the NHS charity A family fun ‘Safari’, a high street story-trail, is coming to Plymouth city centre to help spread joy, support the NHS and give families a safe reason to return to the high street.

Launched on Saturday July 18, families and households in Plymouth are invited to search the streets for 10 cute and colourful MonsterHeroes.

Using only smartphones, the Safari allows you to learn each of the MonsterHeroes’ name, story, and superpowers. Once all 10 MonsterHeroes are found, a free e-book that tells the story of their first team-up will be unlocked.

The Safari works by utilising contactless NFC technology and QR codes. Players don’t need to download or sign up to anything, they simply need to tap or scan to play. There is a nominal cost of £2 per family to play, with donations going to NHS Charities Together.

Plymouth City Centre Company is running the Safari to help bring some sort of normality back to the high street, keeping shoppers entertained and encouraging more visitors to the city centre while keeping them safe.

Over 100 BIDs and councils across the UK

are taking part in the MonsterHero Safari project, which has been sponsored by Wild in Art, with the aim of raising over £100k for NHS

Charities Together. In times of great stress, this project aims to provide the local community with a memorable high street experience that will bring a smile to the local community.

Steve Hughes, chief executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “We are really excited about this trail.

Many of our city centre events have been cancelled because of COVID-19, so now that we have introduced safety measures and the city centre has reopened, this is the perfect opportunity to attract people back in a safe and fun way and raise money for a great cause at the same time.”

Coordinating the national project is Martin Blackwell, former CEO of ATCM and the Charity Retail Association who said: “When I heard about the concept it just resonated with me and I knew I had to support it.

“I loved the idea of heroes; the idea of a ‘safari on the high street!’ I just thought, if something fun like this can help make families feel good about going back out onto the high street and raise money for such a worthy cause then let’s go for it.”

For more information, see visitplymouth.co.uk or to learn more about the story-trail please see www. monsterherosafari.com.

Nuffield Health announces date for the re-opening of Plymouth fitness centres Nuffield Health, the UK’s largest healthcare charity, will welcome members back to its fitness and wellbeing centres in Plymouth on July 25.

To ensure the sites in the Barbican Leisure Park and at the Devonshire Health & Racquets Club in Derriford are safe for both members and employees, Nuffield Health have implemented a number of changes, following guidance from UK Active, the UK government, Public Health England and the charity’s infection prevention team.

To maintain the health and wellbeing of staff and members, Nuffield Health is drawing on over 60 years of clinical care experience to influence its approach to reopening. Applying learnings from its hospital’s infection prevention team the gym will be taking members’ temperatures on arrival, reducing fitness class sizes and placing signs around the club to help maintain social distancing.

Classes will also be shorter than usual to allow time to sanitise the space in between sessions. Swimming pools will re-open for lane swimming only, with fewer people able to use the pool at any one time, and members will be asked to book their session before arriving.

Saunas, steam rooms and spa pools will remain closed, while cafes will be offering a reduced service, with some remaining closed for the time being.

Special measures will be introduced to protect staff and members

To ensure cleanliness, Nuffield Health will be performing an enhanced two-stage cleaning process, using detergent and disinfectant, to sanitise all gym equipment throughout the day and clean the entire club overnight. Nuffield Health will also be providing multiple hand sanitising stations and supplying more hygiene wipe dispensers throughout the club, so members

can clean down equipment and mats before and after use.

Martin Friend, chief operating officer at Nuffield Health comments: “The health and safety of our members and employees is our first priority. With over 60 years’ experience in clinical care, we are implementing learnings from our infection prevention team, alongside industry and

government recommendations to ensure our fitness and wellbeing clubs are prepared to welcome back members in a safe and controlled way.

“During this unprecedented time, we have been supporting regional NHS trusts and local communities across the nation.

We have made all of our 31 hospitals available to the NHS to help increase capacity to support those NHS patients affected by the COVID-19 (coronavirus). Our hospitals have also been used to facilitate the continued delivery of critical NHS services, such as cancer care, and to support NHS patients with other health conditions. We are in a unique position to care for people physically, mentally and clinically to help the recovery of the nation.”

Nuffield Health is also setting out how members can play a role in ensuring a safe, clean environment for all. Members will be asked to arrive dressed for their workout to limit the use of changing rooms. Members will also be asked to bring a full water bottle as water fountains will be out of use. Those using the gym will be asked to shower at home, so shower facilities can be prioritised for those using the pool, as the number of shower facilities will be reduced. Members will also be asked to book online for classes and lane swimming, and to limit their visit to an hour, so that all members get the chance to use the facilities.

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August 2020 9

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NEW DIRECTOR FOR PLYMOUTH SAMARITANS

Plymouth Samaritans have appointed Norman Holmes as their new director.

The director is a three year appointment selected by consulting with all members of the branch to find out who they would like to lead them.

Norman Holmes said: “I am grateful to the members of the branch for selecting me and I look forward to repaying their trust. The next three years will be an exciting and challenging time for us all. Our intention is to provide the best possible service for our callers and to make the branch truly sustainable. That will be my focus.”

Outgoing director Jan Sherriff said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as branch director and I am pleased to be handing over to Norman. He is a terrific appointment who will lead the branch with energy and clarity of vision.”

The Samaritans of Plymouth, East Cornwall and South West Devon are part of a network of Samaritans branches across the UK and Ireland who provide a listening service to lonely and distressed people 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Plymouth Branch is an independent charity in its own right. It is entirely run and staffed by volunteers.

The Branch has been working on a five year strategy to secure its future. This includes plans to increase the number of volunteers, open a shop and improve its premises.

Samaritans can be contacted by people in need at any time during the day or night by calling Freephone 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org

British Art Show returns to Plymouth Britain’s biggest touring contemporary art exhibition - British Art Show 9 - is coming to Plymouth again in 2021.

Held every five years to showcase the work of British artists who have made a significant contribution to international contemporary art, the show will be in Plymouth - for the second time in its history – from November 6 2021 to March 13 2022.

The exhibition will be displayed across four city venues - The Box, KARST, Plymouth University’s Levinsky Gallery and The Gallery at Plymouth College of Art. Works will include sculpture, film, installation, performance, painting and photography.

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10 August 2020

10 August 2020

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Ten Plymouth schools receive funding boost for improvements to facilities Ten schools in Plymouth are among more than 20 in Devon which will benefit from funding to improve their facilities.

The schools have been allocated a share of the £434 million investment announced by the Government to expand classrooms, upgrade facilities and improve the education of children across the whole country.

The funding will ensure schools have well-maintained facilities to provide students with safe environments that support a high-quality education.

It is part of the £1.4billion of capital funding for 2020-21 announced in April and is provided through the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF).

The Government has also announced a major 10-year school rebuilding programme. This will be kick-started with over £1 billion for the first 50 projects in 2020-21.

The new investment will ensure schools and colleges can focus on teaching, with brand new buildings and better facilities so that every child gets the world-class education all children deserve.

Schools across the country have played their part in responding to to the pandemic, ensuring their doors remained open for the children of essential workers – who have kept the NHS, public services and economy going throughout this crisis.

The £1billion package is on top of the £14 billion three-year funding settlement announced last year – recognising the additional work schools will need to do to help students to catch up.

The Plymouth schools which will receive funding are: Mayflower Academy: fire alarm replacement and emergency lighting repair works; Ernesettle Community School: drainage improvement works; Manadon Vale Primary School: essential heating/domestic water replacement; Leigham Primary School: essential heating/domestic water replacement; Weston Mill Community Primary Academy: fire safety and compliance; Eggbuckland Vale Primary School: essential fire safety works; Salisbury Road Primary School: dining hall fire improvement works; Mount Wise Community Primary School: curtain wall replacement; Mount Street Primary School: emergency lighting and fire alarm refurbishment; Elburton Primary School: drainage work.

Appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage Police have re-issued their appeal for witnesses of a collision in which a motorcyclist died.

The collision involved two vans and a motorcycle and occurred on Hillcrest Drive at the junction with Longwood Close, at 2.20pm on Friday July 3.

Officers would particularly like to speak to people in the area prior to the collision who witnessed the driving of the vehicles involved.

Dashcam or CCTV footage would be greatly appreciated.

Anyone with any information which could assist police enquiries are asked to phone 101 or email 101@dc.police.uk quoting log number 468, 3/7/20.

Theatre Royal Plymouth’s Messenger has been wrapped in pink tape as part of a national campaign called #MissingLiveTheatre

Theatre Royal Plymouth in appeal for public support to help secure its future Theatre Royal Plymouth is appealing for people to help secure its future by buying tickets for upcoming shows - even though there is uncertainty about when live performances will be resumed.

An emergency Arts Council grant of £806,000 for the Theatre Royal was announced in July as part of the Government’s £1.57 billion package to support culture.

Adrian Vinken, chief executive officer at Theatre Royal Plymouth - which is a registered charity - said: “We warmly welcome the Government’s announcement to support culture and we are very grateful to receive an emergency grant from Arts Council England’s COVID-19 Emergency Fund.

“We would like to thank all those who have so passionately and visibly supported the sector and TRP over recent weeks on the streets, on social networks, in the media and in writing.

“It’s been heartening to hear and see first-hand the impact of the work we do and how close people hold arts, culture and TRP to their hearts. We look forward to understanding the details of the Government’s support package announced this week and how it will be invested across the sector, including to freelancers on whom the whole creative industries sector relies.

“Crucially, we await a timetable that indicates when venues might be able to safely reopen again. Only then will we really be in a position to meaningfully plan a future for TRP.” In June staff at Theatre Royal Plymouth were informed that over 100 jobs were at risk because of the impact of the pandemic, which has reduced the venue’s income by more than 90 per cent. Redundancy consultations involving the trade union BECTU began on June 22 and could affect almost a third of the charity’s 340 staff.

Adrian Vinken said: “With the Government’s furlough scheme finishing in October and no guarantee about when and how we can safely open our doors, our already depleted funds will be under increasing pressure in the coming months.

Adrian Vinken

“This is compounded by research predicting a reduction in audience numbers when we do reopen, meaning that we’ll have to weather a significant drop in revenue even then – a situation that could last for 12 months or more. Together these factors have led us to the very painful but unavoidable conclusion that we must reduce our workforce in order to try to protect TRP for the future.”

BECTU Official Kevin Carson said “We have developed a positive working relationship with TRP in helping the company become a Real Living Wage employer last year.

Although this announcement about potential redundancies is worrying news, we understand that TRP have similar concerns for their survival as do most other theatres across the country. We will work with TRP to ensure the long-term future for the organisation and our member’s jobs.”

Adrian Vinken said: “We have done everything we could to protect the jobs and incomes of our loyal workforce for as long as possible. This includes continuing to pay our casual staff members when most companies terminated contracts back in March.

“We have also honoured all contracts with

creative freelancers working on the shows that we were due to produce despite their cancellation.”

No final decision on redundancies will be made until the consultation process is complete.

Whilst the venue has been shut it has undertaken support efforts including staff fundraisers and the launch of an Emergency Appeal to which hundreds of local people have already contributed.

Recently, TRP’s active staff members volunteered to reduce their salaries by 20 per cent in a bid to support the charity.

Paying tribute to the staff, Adrian Vinken said: “The commitment of the whole organisation during this very challenging time has been exceptional particularly the moving gesture by those still working to volunteer a reduction in pay.

“TRP’s excellent reputation in the industry and the fierce level of public support it enjoys has been built over many years and is a testament to the quality of our people.

It’s heartbreaking that what was a thriving organisation worth over £40 million annually to the local economy just weeks ago has been forced to implement redundancies to safeguard the future.

“It’s a terribly sad outcome for such loyal and capable staff –but a regrettable and inevitable result of the ongoing crisis.”

Though an opening date for TRP has yet to be confirmed, productions in 2020 remain on sale including the Christmas pantomime, Aladdin.

Adrian Vinken added: “The best way to support TRP is to continue donating, purchasing gift vouchers or booking tickets for the future as normal – safe in the knowledge that if we are able to open you’ll have a fantastic time and, if the show has to be cancelled, you’ll get a full refund.”

For details of shows later in 2020 and into 2021 go to www.theatreroyal.com/whats-on To support TRP go to www.theatreroyal. com/emergencyappeal. A new website theatre royal.com/tr3 has been created to provide updates and information on the valuable community work they are continuing to do during these difficult times.

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August 2020 11

‘Don’t suffer in silence’ – help at hand for people feeling anxious about leaving lockdown

@PlymChronicle

People in Plymouth who are worried or anxious about coping with the newly relaxed lockdown measures are being offered help and support.

A further easing of lockdown measures has left many people concerned about going back to pre-COVID social situations, such as visiting a restaurant, or about the catching virus itself while out and about.

Livewell Southwest and Devon Partnership NHS Trust (DPT), the providers of mental health services in Plymouth, Torbay and the rest of Devon, are reminding people that mental health services are open for business and available to help those in need – without needing to leave the house.

Sara Mitchell, strategic mental health Lead at Livewell Southwest, said: “It’s perfectly normal for people to be feeling anxious at this time with the easing of lockdown and we would urge people to seek the help they need if they need support. “There is a lot of support available for adults and children across Plymouth and Devon and we would urge anyone who has any concerns to please contact our crisis lines if you are in need of immediate mental health support or TALKWORKS or Plymouth Options who provide a range of services to people experiencing common mental health problems. Please don’t suffer in silence.�

Dr David Somerfield, medical director at DPT, added: “Many of us have looked forward to lockdown easing and the prospect of being able to see friends and family again or going out for dinner. “But for many people, lockdown has been an incredibly isolating time. Some people have had no immediate support available through loved ones, may have faced uncertainty about going back to work or may have lost their job. “All of these situations are examples of what can lead to an increase in common mental health problems such as anxiety, low mood or depression which can greatly impact on your day-to day-life and leave you feeling exhausted or worried.�

Simon Tapley, from the NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, added: “We want to remind people that they aren’t alone and there is lots of help available if they need it. There is a wide range of resources, information and support available including self help resources such as the NHS Every Mind Matters resources, help from national helplines and charities, GP support and talking therapy services. “TALKWORKS and Plymouth Options both provide support and help with common mental health problems usually in the form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a talking therapy which helps people manage problems by providing coping techniques to help change the way they are thinking, feeling and behaving. “People can self-refer online by searching for TALKWORKS or Plymouth Options, by phone or your GP can refer you on your behalf with treatment currently taking place over the phone or by video conferencing.

Those needing immediate support with their mental health are also able to access First Response Services which provide advice, support and signposting 24/7.

People in Plymouth can call 01752 434922 and those aged under 18 can also call 01752 435122. Both helplines are open to other health and care professionals and emergency responders such as the police who may need advice when supporting someone with mental health difficulties

12 August 2020

12 August 2020

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Major milestone in restoration of Fort Bovisand as work on stabilising cliffs gets under way The ambitious project to restore the historic Fort Bovisand and build more than 80 houses and apartments on the wider site have come an important step closer, with the start of essential cliff stability works.

Stabilising the cliffs will secure the road providing access to the Fort, and, just as importantly, preserve access to neighbouring residential properties.

Original plans had these works starting in March, but they were delayed by the pandemic. It is now anticipated that this stage will now be completed by early September when work will start on the rest of the project.

“We have taken the first step on the way to saving the Fort and bringing it back into sustainable and meaningful use”, said Greg Dyke, the former director general of the BBC and chairman of Fort Bovisand Developments. “This is the first stage of our exciting plans for the future of the Fort”.

“Basically, we are starting a £26 million project by spending more than half a million pounds making sure the access road at the front of the Fort doesn’t fall into the sea.

Obviously this has to be done first before we get on with the rest of the project.”

Built in the 1860s as a defence against the threat posed by Napoleonic France,

Fort Bovisand is one of the best surviving Palmerston Forts. In recent years it became one of the largest and most important commercial diver training centres in Europe.

The fort is in urgent need of repair and is currently on Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register.

The regeneration plans will bring new life to the site, restore the Fort’s historic buildings, improve sea defences and reinstate the harbour.

Two towers in the Upper Fort, demolished in the early part of the last century, will be rebuilt in a sympathetic style on their original foundations.

Three of the casemates will provide space for a bistro café and rooftop terrace offering stunning views across Plymouth Sound, and there will be a Visitors’ Centre and events space to promote the importance of this historic site. The regeneration plans include 81 new homes affording spectacular sea views from their terraces.

Access from the Fort Bovisand harbour to the South West Coast Path will be reinstated, and it is planned that a regular local ferry service will operate from there to points around Plymouth Sound.

Greg Dyke added: “For me this is a very exciting moment. I am delighted we are now in a position to start on this

Cliff stabilisation work under way at Fort Bovisand

project. We acquired this magnificent site some years ago, so actually starting on site is an important moment. As soon as I saw it and understood its history, I was determined it should be saved”.

“Very quickly it became clear that the best chance of saving and restoring the Fort was by allowing sensitive development on parts of the site. Both South Hams District Council and Historic England agreed with this

analysis and have been very supportive in getting a workable scheme agreed to achieve the future life of the fort”.

“With the Mayflower 400 commemorations deferred to 2021, this is an opportune time to commence restoring and developing the Fort, for the benefit of future residents, the rural economy, local residents, visitors and schools alike.” www.fortbovisanddevelopments.com

Special events in Plymouth to mark the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day on August 15 The 75th anniversary of VJ Day - Victory over Japan - will be marked with special events in Plymouth in August.

VJ Day marks the surrender of Japan on August 15 1945, effectively ending the Second World War.

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The 75th anniversary will be marked in Plymouth with a memorial service for the people of Plymouth, followed by a celebration in The Guildhall with live entertainment.

Lisa De-Lar, one of the organisers from an association called FEPOW - Far East Prisoners of War, said: “Everyone remembers and celebrates VE Day, thinking that this was the end of the Second World War, but of course that is not true.

“The war ended with Japan surrendering on August 15 1945 and after this date and in many locations the act of surrender had to be signed. So August 15 was known as the end of the War.” Lisa said that many dignitaries will be attending on August 15, including the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Lord Lieutenant of Devon and the High Sheriff of Devon.

The memorial service at the Minster Church of St Andrew’s is at 11am to be followed by the celebration in The Guildhall from 1.15pm to 9pm when people are encouraged to ‘put on those dancing shoes or sing along with great entertainers.

Music from the 40s, 50s and 60s will be performed by a number of acts including Sandy Sparkle, Neil Kristopher, 2 Unique and Ocean City Sounds.

Entry is by wrist band which cost £3. They can be purchased from the organisers at The Treasury between 11am and 2pm on July 22, 25 and 29 and August 1.

For more information visit www. vjday75plymouth.co.uk

August 2020 13

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Mammoth Mayflower 400 tree with Sherford Life historic link is planted in Sherford “How could the world go back to the way it was when so much bad had happened?”

A towering tulip tree has been planted at

Sherford to commemorate the Mayflower 400 anniversary.

The impressive nine-metre tall tree is native to Massachusetts and was specifically chosen by the Sherford Consortium to honour the historic connection between Plymouth and its American namesake during the Mayflower 400 commemorations.

In a small socially-distant ceremony, the tree was planted by Charles Hackett, chief executive officer of Mayflower 400 and representatives from the Sherford Consortium. Delivered by crane, the tree weighed around three-tonnes and took several hours to be settled into position on Libra Avenue, amidst Sherford’s homes.

This is believed to be the largest of its kind planted in the South West and could reach up to 12-metres tall, with a canopy spreading out over 8-metres once fully grown. Tulip trees are one of the tallest native trees of eastern North America, hailing from the state known for the Mayflower’s pioneering voyage.

Currently, it measures 80cm around its trunk and arrived at Sherford in a 2-metre wide pot!

For circa 35 years it has been in the care of British tree-grower, Hillier Trees, located within their 750-acre tree production site in Petersfield. The tree came to UK in 1985 as a 60-80cm tall seedling and has been transplanted seven times to give it a full and healthy root system. Grown in British soil for 35 years, the Tulip tree has now found its forever home at Sherford, with help from Plympton-based YGS Landscapes, which oversees Sherford’s abundant landscaping.

Although the current restrictions prevented Sherford’s residents joining the celebrations, they will soon have plenty to see, with the tree already in bloom with striking tulipshaped flowers that will be on display through the summer months. It is hoped that later in the year pupils at Sherford Vale will be able to help welcome the tree to the town and place a commemorative plaque at its base.

Emma Colin from the Sherford Consortium and regional sales and marketing director for Vistry Partnerships said: “The tree stands proudly at the heart of Sherford, where it will continue to grow and flourish for years to come. This is a unique and special way to honour the Mayflower 400 anniversary and we chose the tree for all that is symbolises. The Tulip tree is a beautiful addition to Sherford and one we are sure the community will treasure.”

Charles Hackett, chief executive officer of Mayflower 400, said: “Marking the Mayflower 400 commemorative year with the planting

Charles Hackett, chief executive officer of Mayflower 400 and representatives from the Sherford Consortium

of a variety of Tulip tree that is native to Massachusetts is a symbolic way of highlighting the transatlantic connections that have been formed and evolved between the four nations since the Mayflower’s historic voyage in 1620.”

Steve Warren-Brown, managing director of YGS Landscapes, said: “The arrival of this epic tree has been in planning for over a year and

we are delighted to welcome it as the latest addition to the Sherford landscape.

“It is a real testament to the Sherford Consortium’s commitment to enhance the environment wherever possible and make this a special place to live. This beautiful tree is a great celebration of the Mayflower commemorations, which we are thrilled to support.”

Mad Dog Mcrea to play exclusive live streamed gig Plymouth’s Mad Dog Mcrea will be playing an exclusive live streamed gig in August.

It will be a full production show and is not to be missed by fans of their unique mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz and bluegrass and music.

Tickets for this one-off event on August 14 are now available online from the band’s website. They are strictly limited and early booking is advised. The gig will not be available as a video after the event so make sure you are one of the lucky ones who can say ‘I was there!’

Tickets give access to an exclusive live stream from the venue with the show starting at 8pm and finishing at 9.45pm. Viewers can watch this from the comfort of your home or preferred place. The show will not be available to watch after August 14.

Kev Davis from event promoters Fuelled

By Cider said: “Coronavirus has hit the live music scene very hard but we are determined not to let it stop us enjoying our favourite

best bands this summer. We’re thrilled to be involved in this exclusive show, and know that Mad Dog Mcrea will be as dynamic and fun in your front room as they would be if you were in the front row!”

From self-penned songs of adventure, drinking, love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies – Mad Dog never fail to capture their audience with their infectious songs. In constant demand and having played just about every festival around, Mad Dog Mcrea are, in every sense of the word, a live, band.

Matched with the unshakable dedication of their massive and ‘loyal-to-the-hilt’, fan base – Mad Dog Mcrea are more than just a very popular, festival act – with five albums under their belts, they are serious and acclaimed recording artists too.

For tickets go to www.maddogmcrea.co.uk

These words come from a conversation between Frodo and Sam, two of the key characters in Tolkien’s legendary Lord of the Rings saga.

But perhaps they sum up our feelings about our own times too. How can things go back to the way they were before COVID-19?

Answer: they can’t – at least, not entirely. And that may be a good thing.

There are plenty of things we’ve missed over the past few months.

Cancelled events, sports By Revd Tom Brassil matches and concerts. Family weddings and parties and general social gatherings. Hugging people!

Being able to leave home without a mask and hand sanitiser and a nagging worry.

But there are also plenty of things we have rediscovered over the past few months too. The positives of family time at home. A sense of the importance of connecting with wider family. I have never spent so much time with my wider family as we have done via video calling these past four months!

Maybe you’ve discovered the joys of working from home and missing the awful commute. Maybe you have been reawakened to the simple pleasure of enjoying the nature around us.

And it’s inspiring to see how people have come together (relationally, if not physically) during this crisis. All the community initiatives and support groups that have popped into existence.

In my own locale of Sherford, almost 100 people across our small community came together to form the Sherford Mutual Aid Group, offering practical support like picking up groceries and medicines for the most vulnerable. There is a real sense that the chaos of 2020 has actually strengthened the community.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if, as individuals and communities, we didn’t just go back to ‘the way things were’ at the end of all this? If we could emerge stronger and better from the current crisis?

One of the most hope-inspiring passages in the Bible comes right at the end. After chapter upon chapter talking about the grim realities of life (plagued with human evil, suffering and death) we get a glimpse of the Christian’s hope for the future with these words from God: “I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:5, the Bible).

In other words, God’s plan for the universe isn’t to go back to the way things used to be. His plan is to make it better than new. If you’d like to find out more about the Christian hope, then please do look out for adverts for the Hope Explored discussion groups we run at Sherford Community Church.

“But in the end, it’s only a passing thing, this shadow. Even darkness must pass.

A new day will come. And when the sun shines it will shine out the clearer.” (Sam Gamgee, Lord of the Rings).

If you have any questions about Sherford life, or if you would like to know more about Sherford Community Church or about the Christian’s future hope, please contact me at tom@sherfordchurch.net

Care in the community by the community

What can we do for others? We, at POP+ have been delighted to witness the number of people; the amount of goodwill and the level of commitment that individuals across the city have shown to their neighbours whether they know them or not. Interest in the pioneering Neighbourhood Care Networks is growing as other community groups and city-wide organisations, including the City Council, Neighbourhood Watch and St Luke’s Hospice learn about the way they are supporting and enabling communities to better help themselves. There is also a determination from those involved, that as residents chose to participate, they will be encouraged and supported to take a greater role in shaping their own communities.

Despite the easing of lockdown, the Neighbourhood Care Networks continue to receive requests for help particularly from people still shielding. In Stoke, a team of around 15-20 STARS volunteers who have been providing local support are now going one step further: after months of seclusion, residents who may be tentative about taking their first steps beyond their door, are being offered a steady hand from a STARS supporter ready to escort them as they do their errands and shopping.

As the NCN’s develop so other agencies and organisations are recognising their value. As Karen Pilkington from STARS says, this means they can provide more support to more people; “We’ve had organisations such as Barnados, the Stoke GP Surgery and the Well Pharmacy giving our number to individuals they are working with, directing them to us for support.

It has been great to see this collaboration, between statutory services and volunteers, with everyone working together to create communities where we can all help each other.”

As we move out of lockdown Plymouth’s Neighbourhood Care Networks will become the meeting and connection spaces for businesses, community groups, networks and people to work together for the best of their neighbourhood. We have seen and experienced the power of empathy and compassion when we come together and support one another.

Our Neighbourhood Care Networks will help us retain this amazing but fragile green shoot of regeneration. As we experience further disruption the social fabric which holds us together has never been more important. Only together can we hold and support one another through the turbulence to come.

How technology is enabling compassion.

Since the beginning of the pandemic and the launch of the lockdown, the internet and social media has enabled thousands of individuals to form support groups and to respond quickly to calls for help. That so much community action has taken place by so many has been both humbling and heartening but, at the same time, there is concern that it has left some individuals exposed and potentially vulnerable on ‘open’ platforms with little digital protection. The Neighbourhood Care Networks, employs three digital platforms that are individually - and in combination - appropriate, efficient and secure:

WhatsApp: Some Neighbourhood Care Networks are using WhatsApp, where appropriate, to organise support around an individual. In one example, a WhatsApp group has been set up to support a resident with dog-walking: none of the individual’s details has been shared with anyone outside the group or without her consent. There is oversight, transparency and a sense of community enabling the volunteers to work together.

Many people are discovering how useful, important and enabling these technology platforms have proved to be. Working in combination, they have allowed POP+ to create an innovative digital infrastructure to care for people in a way that is safe and reliable; that makes rapid and appropriate connections and respects an individual’s privacy.

POP ideas helps channel a quarter of a million pounds of emergency funding into the city:

Twilio: POP+ is using Twilio to power phone lines that people, isolated at home, can text or call for support. When someone contacts the phone line, Twilio responds with a message which reassures them; lets them know their message has been received and informs them of the name of the person who will be returning their call. At the same time, their message is sent to the ‘on duty’ volunteer who, along with all other volunteers, has been recommended by someone already in the network.

Slack: a digital tool designed to help teams communicate. Each NCN has a space on POP+’s account that allows members, receiving requests for support from individuals-in-need, to coordinate a response with each other. It also enables network members to communicate the opportunities and challenges they are facing.

Furthermore, it allows people from different NCN’s to use Slack to interact with each other; access expertise; share information; discuss ideas and access useful resources.

Since the beginning of the lockdown POP ideas has been supporting more than eighty voluntary, community, social enterprise groups and organisations across the city with oneto-one advice on how they might survive the economic and social impact of the pandemic.

The team of advisors has been supporting more than twice as many groups and organisations than usual and spending twice as much time with their clients in their one-to-one sessions (via Zoom).

The expertise and input from the POP ideas team has helped to double the number of successful applications compared to this time last year and directly secure about £135,000 of funding since the 29th of March. At the same time, the team has been constantly promoting information from some of the country’s most significant funders, such as, the National Lottery, Sport England, the Arts Council and the RANK Foundation to its clients and flagging up opportunities for emergency funding. All this activity has helped to bring in about a quarter of a million pounds of funding to provide

Whitleigh Big Local.

Help line: 01752 875916 Nudge Community Builders, Stonehouse.

Help line: 07723 494413 STARS (Stoke Traders & Residents Association).

Help line: 07380 319128 The Hoe Neighbourhood Forum.

Help line: 077235 77305 Keyham Neighbourhood Watch.

Help line: 01752 563095 or 07780 711894

Daisies on the railway bridge at Garfield Terrace painted by STARS volunteers Zoe and Eilish with ‘Mike V’

much-needed financial support across the city’s voluntary and community sector. More than half of this has come from the Devon Community Fund with £162,897 of emergency money being awarded to forty-four charities and community projects across the city.

Imogen Potter, the Capacity Building Manager for POP ideas, says it has been troubling to hear how many of the city’s community projects are facing such uncertainty; without them, says Imogen, we all lose out: “So many of these organisations exist to help others, offering support, care and compassion to people most-in-need. It is imperative that we all - POP+, the City Council, the Government, local and national funding bodies - do as much as we all can to ensure they survive this time and are able to continue their work.”

One of those organisations supported by POP ideas is Plymouth Hope, which recently received £9800 from Devon Community Fund to help fund their Covid 19 response work and adapt their ongoing programmes to provide support online.

Plymouth Hope activity packs Food vouchers, activity packs for children, electronic devices and an increase in internet accessibility are just some of the critical support that Plymouth Hope has been able to provide.

It has also been able to continue its homeworksupport sessions for children, moving the service online, and lending devices to families where children are unable to participate for lack of equipment. The organisation has also set aside £2000 to support small groups that typically share a language (predominantly within the city’s communities of refugees and asylum seekers) that have been significantly affected by the lockdown.

More than forty clients of POP ideas have succeeded in their bids for emergency funding from the Devon Community Fund, including: Routeways Centre Ltd - received £1500 to provide activities offering respite during lockdown to families of young people with additional needs.

CHIL Plymouth (previously known as Community Health in Keyham) - been given £2000 to buy equipment and pay for staff & volunteers to support people facing mental health challenges.

Tectona Trust Ltd - £850 to provide remote support to members recovering from mental health & substance misuse.

Transforming Plymouth Together - £950 to share food, sports and experiences between communities in Plymouth as part of the Unifying Plymouth initiative.

August 2020 15

@PlymChronicle

‘Let’s build a statue we can be proud of’ A campaign has been launched to raise £100,000 to build a statue in memory of Argyle player Jack Leslie outside Home Park.

Jack, who played for Argyle from 1921 to 1934, was picked to play for England in 1925, but was then denied his England cap when the selection committee realised he was black.

A Crowdfunder campaign was launched at the beginning of July and has the full support of not only Plymouth Argyle, but also the Football Association, local MPs, celebrities and football fans all over the country.

Last year Plymouth Argyle named the new club boardroom after Jack, while Plymouth City Council has also decided to rename Sir John Hawkins Square after Jack Leslie.

Now organisers of the campaign want to recognise his achievements - and right a past wrong.

Campaign co-founder, Greg Foxsmith said: “At a time when people are recognising that black lives matter and statues of slave traders are coming down, we believe that putting up a statue is a more positive way to celebrate black achievement and challenge racial stereotypes. Let’s build a statue we can be proud of.”

The campaign has already received major media coverage, not only in national newspapers but also on BBC and other broadcast outlets.

At the time of going to press the campaign total had already passed £70,000, which included a £20,000 contribution from Plymouth City Council - the same amount the council donated to the Nancy Astor statue on The Hoe. Jack, a prolific goalscorer, was born in London and played for Plymouth Argyle for 13 years, scoring 137 goals in 401 appearances.

Jack was the only professional black footballer playing in England for much of his career and was a popular figure at Argyle where he helped the team win a championship and promotion, toured South America and became club captain,

Prolific goalscorer Jack Leslie

probably the first black player to do so in the professional game.

In his later years he worked in the ‘boot

room’ at West Ham, shining the leathers of World Cup winners, including the late Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst.

Jack’s granddaughter Lyn Davies, said: “My sisters, Lesley and Jill, and I remember Jack as a wonderful grandad who looked after us and told us funny stories. We and the wider family are absolutely delighted that he is now being recognised for the sporting achievements he was so modest about.”

Campaign supporter and PFA equalities officer, Iffy Onuora, said: “Jack Leslie deserves a statue for the career that is marked in the record books. But the injustice he suffered almost one hundred years ago is sadly still reflected in other aspects within the game and beyond today.

“Acknowledging that and celebrating this pioneering black player is a positive message we need right now, and helps contextualise the work still needed towards the wider goal of equality for all.”

The campaign team, made up of football fans across the country, hopes to use the Jack Leslie story to raise awareness of discrimination and campaign positively for equality, a message which is certainly relevant in the current climate.

Co-founder Matt Tiller said: “We are reaching out and calling on people to support this campaign. We want football fans, politicians, organisations and companies, but most importantly individuals, to show their support and donate towards the statue fund.”

To donate to the campaign go to www. crowdfunder.co.uk/jack-leslie-campaign

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It’s Electrifying!

THE ALL NEW HONDA E JOINS THE FLEET At Rowes Honda amidst soaring demand for electric vehicles

Letter to the Editor

Stop these cruel dog breeders First to say how much how much we usually enjoy your paper. However, I couldn’t leave a story you had in the July 2020 edition of the Plymouth Chronicle without writing to you.

The ‘It’s super news for Superdog!” article described the kindness and care given to a Shar-Peis dog by Gables Dogs Home and his adoptive owner.

It went on to describe the vet visits, the two operations for his deformed eyelids that folded inwards, and the surgical operation to resection his ears and remove excess skin. And even after all that he will still need careful attention to avoid infections.

Surely we are missing the point here?

Breeds like this are doomed to a life of suffering from birth. The breeders who deliberately breed dogs with such abnormalities should be prosecuted.

There is nothing good about breeding animals that have such severe skin, eye, ear and other problems that they need a series of surgical operations just to be able to live.

Please, Plymouth Chronicle, add a plea to readers never to support this cruel practice. Buying breeds like the SharPeis simply encourages breeders and perpetuates this cruel business.

Caroline Thomas

Sales of electric and hybrid vehicles (EHVs) are set to soar this decade, with ever-improving batteries, performance and range, and over twice as many public electric charging points than fuel stations now in place across the UK. Offering an ‘electric’ option to the people of Plymouth, Rowes Honda has announced it will be adding the much-awaited next generation electric car from Honda, the Honda e, to its extensive fleet of vehicles this summer.

For many, a reduction in one’s own environmental impact is now front of mind, as Brits are looking to the key car brands to provide them options that support these evolving preferences.

However, offerings within the EHV space often come with a

feeling of compromise in terms of design and performance of a vehicle in order to go green until now.

Introducing: the all new Honda e.

Powered by proven Honda electric powertrain technologies, the high-performance electric motor has been designed to deliver the agility and speed expected from smaller sportier models with a modern and stylish aesthetic. Subtle but sophisticated details include flush door handles that extend from the side of the car as the driver approaches with the key fob; and a Side Camera Mirror System in place of conventional side view mirrors.

Tim Chatfield, Group Sales

Manager from Rowes Honda commented: “As consumer preferences are evolving, we are seeing the popularity of hybrid and e-vehicles rapidly increasing.

We’re thrilled to be able to provide an affordable, efficient and stylish option in this space with the launch of the Honda e and look forward to inviting local customers in for a test drive.”

In true Honda style, the Honda e isn’t just about how it looks and feels to drive; it also overdelivers on practicality and intelligence. The technology introduced in to this model sets new benchmarks in the compact EV segment, with intuitive infotainment services and connected apps that seamlessly integrate with the owner’s modern lifestyle, accessed via the dual touchscreen displays, Honda Personal Assistant artificial intelligence or via the My Honda+ smartphone app.

The Honda e will be available

at Rowes Honda Plymstock from early July, starting at £26,660 OTR with finance options available.

To book your test drive today, contact your local Honda dealership on 01752 485333 or email at info@rowes.co.uk

16 August 2020

16 August 2020

@PlymChronicle

Royal Navy weather forecasters get celebrity endorsement from Laura TV weather forecaster Laura Tobin has given the latest Royal Navy Meteorologist course in Plymouth a big celebrity endorsement and wished them good luck for their futures serving the Fleet.

At a virtual ceremony due to COVID-19 restrictions six students received their graduation certificates and end of course prizes, as well as a congratulatory talk from Laura, with the help of a giant TV screen. Laura, who had also served operationally at RAF Brize Norton as one of the Air Station’s forecasters for several years, passed on some of her experiences to the course, who will begin their operational time soon.

“It is truly a huge honour to be asked here today,” said Laura, from her home near London. “Can I just say congratulations to you all on your achievements and it is no mean feat to have got this far, with all the Pandemic interruptions and knowing how much there is take in and learn, you have all done remarkably well.”

Those on course would whole heartedly agree. For the past 19 weeks they have been studying global meteorological forecasting and practised delivering weather briefs to their instructors, at the Royal Navy’s Hydrographic, Meteorological and Oceanographic (HM) School at Devonport Naval Base.

“All officers and senior in the specialisation will do this course at the school to become forecasters in the Royal Navy before moving onto an air station for consolidation,” said Chief Petty Officer Ian ‘Perry’ Mason, one of the students graduating.

“After spending two months briefing and learning on the job, briefing aircrew and squadrons we can expect to go to sea on one of the two Aircraft Carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth or HMS Prince of Wales.

“And it’s here that our briefings are critical to aircraft safety and carrier strike with F35 jets and helicopters conducting flying operations day and night.”

Ian served on HMS Queen Elizabeth during the recent trials with the F35 off the East Coast of the

Laura Tobin on the big screen for the virtual graduation ceremony

United States, where hurricanes and severe storms are frequent.

His 15 years in the Royal Navy have served him well and passing the Metrological Forecasting course is a huge highlight of his career so far.

“They will provide an essential role to an Aircraft Carriers capability, giving advice on the safety of operations, guidance to Command on where aircraft can safely fly as well as to the other Ships in a Task Group,” said Lieutenant Commander Gordon Jones, Officer in Charge of the Royal Navy’s Hydrographic, Meteorological and Oceanographic School.

“The capability to be able to react instantaneously to changes in the environment is essential to any naval operations. The ability to report a line of thunderstorms in the path of a mission and whether you have the flexibility to fly

in the next 10 minutes is important now as it was 50 or 60 years ago.”

Gordon is no stranger to reacting to weather changes at sea. He was the senior meteorologist onboard HMS Ocean, when it was diverted to the Caribbean in 2017 during Operation Ruman, when Hurricane Irma swept across the region, causing catastrophic damage in its wake.

“Being able to react to weather changes when you are carrying out disaster relief in the face of a Hurricane or Typhoon is important now as it ever has been. It is a sobering experience to personally witness the physical impact on a community and the devastation caused by the weather.

“Weather touches everything and everyone all the time. Whether it’s how long food will stay fresh or if you should take a coat with you when you go for a walk. We teach Royal Naval Weather Forecasters to be ready for anything, anywhere in the world, wherever our carriers or ships are operating.”

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August 2020 17

@PlymChronicle

Go the extra mile to support St Luke’s

Following official safety advice relating to mass participation events during the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the city’s best-loved charities has announced the cancellation of two of its flagship fundraising events for this year.

St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is not letting lockdown restrictions dampen the community spirit of its many ardent supporters though.

Quite the reverse! Having made the difficult decision to cancel the popular Men’s Day Out and ladies’ Midnight Walk events, after previously hoping to just postpone - and recognising the disappointment this will bring to the thousands who had signed up to take part - it is inviting local men and women to create their own fundraising challenge instead.

Sponsorship money raised by those who sign up for the charity’s Make your own Midnight Walk event this summer, in collaboration with Nash & Co Solicitors (July 24 – August 31), will help ensure the muchloved charity can continue to provide bespoke end of life care for terminally ill patients at home, in hospital and at its specialist unit at Turnchapel, and support them and their loved ones during these turbulent times.

Whether participants choose to walk, jog or run, and whether they take on the challenge solo, with members of their household – children are welcome - or friends (including the four-legged variety!), their personalised event will be an opportunity to have fun – safely - in the great outdoors. For the many who look forward to taking part in Men’s Day Out and Midnight Walk as a tribute to their lost loves ones, it is also a chance to keep the memory of that special person alive and celebrate their life.

Penny Hannah, head of fundraising at St Luke’s, said: “Over the years, Men’s Day Out and our ladies’ Midnight Walk have become legendary in our city with thousands taking part. They’ve done us proud, highlighting the need for local hospice care and raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to ensure our vital service continues.

“Cancelling both events for this year is disappointing for our supporters and us, but it’s the right thing to do to protect our community during the pandemic. It does mean though, that alternative ways of fundraising are key to our charity surviving in these uncertain times.

“That’s why we’re calling on existing supporters and new to sign up to Make your own Midnight Walk. Not only is registering easy and completely free of charge, there’s the flexibility to do everything from a gentle walk or jog to a full-on marathon distance.

Stay close to your own doorstep or head to a favourite destination, as long as it is safe to do so.

“What counts is taking part because it’s the sponsorship raised by sharing your JustGiving page with family, friends and neighbours that will help keep St Luke’s doing what we do best, being the professional comfort blanket our patients and their families need now more than ever.

“This is a great opportunity for people of all ages to have fun while doing good in their community, before we can all come together again for our mass participation events in safer times.”

To sign up and to get more information to Make your own Midnight Walk, visit www. stlukesmidnightwalk.co.uk Participants already signed up to Men’s Day Out or Midnight Walk have already been contacted by St Luke’s via email to explain the cancellation process.

St Luke’s is continuing to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic closely. The charity will contact each person who registers an event to ensure they are aware of the latest official advice relating to social distancing before their event takes place.

The popular Men’s Day Out fundraiser has been cancelled this year because of COVID-19

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COMMUNITY

18 August 2020

@PlymChronicle

JOB SHOP Plymouth teenager honoured Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop

Local businesses, voluntary groups, organisations, groups and individuals are invited to post their job vacancies in our Community Job Shop feature. This must be for part-time and voluntary jobs only and should contain no more than 50 words, including contact details. All you have to do is send the details via e-mail to info@cornerstonevision.com Deadline for each issue is first Monday of the month prior.

Please note that these vacancies were all posted prior to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Anyone interested in one of the vacancies is advised to contact the organistion concerned and check to see if the post is still available.

GARDENING AT YMCA PLYMOUTH Volunteers wanted to help at our community garden at Honicknowle. All produce from the garden is destined for an emergency food provision charity. Can you help us please. A few hours here and there would be great.

Contact, Vic Hibbert, YMCA Plymouth on 01752 761004 or vic.h@ymcaplymouth.org.uk HEAD SPACE VOLUNTEER Head Space offers an out-of-hours service for people who consider that they are approaching a mental health crisis. The service aims to provide a non-clinical setting with a safe, calm and structured environment, where individuals can go to access peer support. Volunteers will work alongside staff to provide support in both group and 1:1 settings. We provide comprehensive training and support, and the opportunity to join a successful and likeminded team. All travel costs are covered and you will be able to develop new skills and experiences and have fun whilst helping make a difference To get involved contact us for an initial discussion T: 0800 9230 039 or visit www.colebrooksw.org/head-space/ HELP AT HOME COMMUNITY SUPPORT ASSISTANTS Age UK Plymouth are recruiting Help at Home Community Support Assistants for domestic tasks/ shopping for clients. This is a zero hour contract at national minimum wage, mileage is paid. Please visit www.ageukplymouth.org.uk for full details and to complete an application form. Alternatively call on 01752 256020 for further details.

VOLUNTEERS Local charity Hearts Together is looking for willing volunteers with a little time to spare to help out at Derriford Hospital. If you can assist with general gardening, bed making and transport then we’d love to hear from you. The time you give to us can be totally flexible and we will cover your out of pocket expenses. Contact 01752 315900 or e-mail rachel@ heartstogether.org.uk. For more information go to www.heartstogether.org.uk ROYAL VOLUNTARY LIBRARY SERVICE Derriford Hospital needs help for the book trolley ward rounds weekdays between 10 am - 12 noon. If you are interested in the service and can spare the time, please contact Pat Hamilton on Thursdays 9.30 am - 3.30 pm on 01752 430880 for further information.

VOLUNTEER DOG CUDDLERS WANTED Offer a short break to some of our pawsome dogs.

Due to high demand we are looking for dog lovers to have a doggy home board with them while their owners are away. You will be fully insured, licensed and supported 24/7 by us. One dog at a time, guest dogs come with everything they need and only at times to suit you. It’s the perfect way for retired people, work at home and stay at home parents with school age children to have a ‘part time pooch.’ You must have a secure garden. Please contact Jennifer or Carolyn to discuss. 01752 769453.

DISTRIBUTORS Cornerstone Vision, publishers of the Plymouth Chronicle, are looking for distributors, to help deliver leaflets across the city and surrounding area.

Transport an advantage, own phone number essential.

We are particularly looking for people to help cover Efford, Ernesettle, Saltash, Ivybridge and Torpoint, although other areas may be available. Please email chris.etherington@cornerstonevision.com or call 01752 225623.

with Diana Award for helping to protect the city’s children A Plymouth teenager has been honoured with a Diana Award for her contribution to the city’s Together for Childhood programme, which aims to prevent child sexual abuse.

Former Hele’s School student Tegan Tunnicliffe, 18, has been commended for her ongoing work helping to protect children and young people from harm at an online virtual ‘red carpet’ event, the first in the ceremony’s history.

Recalling the moment she found out about the award, Tegan said: “The first thing I did was ring my mum who was at work.

“We both found it hilarious until it actually sank in and I realised which Diana we were on about. I was extremely honoured to be nominated, let alone actually receive a Diana Award.”

Liam Payne, James McVey and Dame Emma Thompson were among the special guests and performers at the star-studded online event, which Tegan attended from home.

Tegan, who lives in West Park, will be attending Plymouth University from September. She has been involved since the very early stages of Together for Childhood, contributing to the neighbourhood selection process in which the pilot site area of Ernesettle was decided.

“Together for Childhood is extremely important in encouraging involvement within communities, which in turn encourages a range of voices and opinions,” said Tegan.“I believe this is extremely important in encouraging the voice of young people to create a generation of people who are comfortable to speak out and get involved within communities.”

Publicly launched in October 2018, the community-based partnership programme is reinforcing simple safeguarding messages in communities to build confidence in adults to protect children from abuse.

The NSPCC has teamed up with local residents, voluntary groups and schools, as well as Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Safeguarding Children Board, and Devon & Cornwall Police to deliver the initiative.

Tegan is an active member of the programme’s youth participation group, EMPOWER, which has been exploring what healthy relationships mean to young people and evaluating Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) provision in schools.

NSPCC children’s service practitioner, Corinne Picton said: “Tegan co-created and codelivered sessions to teaching staff aimed at increasing their

Tegan attended the online ceremony with her pet sausage dog

“I would like to say a massive thank you to all of the adults who have given me a voice as a young person and given me the opportunity to speak and work around topics I am passionate about” TEGAN TUNNICLIFFE confidence in delivering RSE lessons. She was also involved in developing a quality assurance tool which could be used by schools to assess RSE teaching resources and lesson plans.

“This was based on the key messages young people wanted to give to schools about what made for good provision. This has been invaluable in preparing schools for when RSE becomes compulsory in September 2020.”

The group’s definition of what healthy relationships mean to young people has been adopted by the Plymouth Safeguarding Children Partnership, and an education resource pack created by EMPOWER is now widely being used by professionals across the city to help with the delivery of RSE lessons.

The pack includes a powerful animation narrated by Tegan, which members of EMPOWER scripted and created with the

support of the NSPCC and Barnardo’s in Plymouth.

Tegan adds: “I hope that in having this project, more young people are given the opportunity and encouraged to get involved within the community as I’ve had the chance too. I think it is important for young people to be heard which I hope this project will encourage for more people as it has done for me.”

In addition to her work around healthy relationships, Tegan also facilitated a session for the National Citizenship Service (NCS), presenting to more than 500 peers on the topic of exploitation.

She co-created the session following a training session she attended with Devon and Cornwall Police about County Lines exploitation. She went onto work with the force on a campaign to raise awareness of child exploitation, which is currently in use across the city.

Corinne added: “Tegan’s ongoing involvement in Together for Childhood is a credit to a young person who is passionate about young people’s rights, and believes steadfastly in opportunities for young people to express their thoughts and opinions, and for the adults and professionals around them to listen, take seriously and act. I am delighted that she has been recognised with a Diana Award.”

Established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, The Diana Award is awarded retrospectively to young people aged between nine and 25 years old for their social action or humanitarian work.

“I would like to say a massive thank you to all of the adults who have given me a voice as a young person and given me the opportunity to speak and work around topics I am passionate about,” said Tegan.

“I hope eventually I will be able to inspire other young people to get more involved within their communities and help them to realise that they can have a voice.”

The award ceremony is free to watch on The Diana Award YouTube Channel.

August 2020 19

@PlymChronicle

Busted Billy gets a second chance thanks to Gables Dogs & Cats Home Gables Dogs & Cats Home in Plympton are appealing for help to fund the specialist care needed for an old, battered and broken cat.

Busted Billy arrived at Gables after spending many lonely years fending for himself in the wild. He was initially thought to be around nine years old, but due to the horrendous state of his teeth and poor body condition the charity believes he is closer to 14 years old.

Years of surviving alone on the moors left Busted Billy emaciated and covered in fleas, with a matted and greasy coat. Despite receiving food from well-meaning residents in the area, his health has sadly been neglected.

After a veterinary examination he was found to have bad teeth (including fractured canines), conjunctivitis and tatty, filthy ears.

He is also suffering from muscle wastage (atrophy) all over his body and head, leaving him weak and lethargic.

If that wasn’t enough for this poor old boy, he has been diagnosed with diabetes, meaning he will need daily insulin injections for the rest of his life. It is estimated it will cost Gables £1000 for his ongoing care and treatment.

While many may have given up on a cat this age with so many health issues, as a genuine non-euthanasia charity Gables believes that he deserves a chance at a happy life.

Despite the difficult past that Busted Billy has had and the lifetime of medical care that he requires, he has an incredible zest for life and is very affectionate towards everyone he meets. He even enjoyed a good pamper session of a warm bath and a pedicure for his ingrown claws.

Ruth Rickard, deputy manager said: “Busted Billy is a very sweet, affectionate cat and it’s amazing to see how much he trusts humans considering his past. Many people believe they are doing enough for stray and abandoned animals by offering

RSPCA braces for summer surge in abandoned pets The RSPCA is bracing itself for a surge in abandoned animals and fears the fallout from the COVID-19 crisis could see more owners struggling to keep their pets.

Busted Billy...looking sad

the odd piece of food, but in cases such as Busted Billy’s, sometimes so much more is needed.

“We couldn’t turn this poor old boy away despite the difficulties we are facing ourselves.”

Even though the charity is struggling financially due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are determined to help Busted Billy begin to regain his strength and start the search for his forever home.

If you can help to ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to ‘Busted Billy’s Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/ bustedbillygetsasecondchance to donate online.

Donations can also be made via text: • To donate £1, text GABLESBB to 70201 • To donate £3, text GABLESBB to 70331 • To donate £5, text GABLESBB to 70970 • To donate £10, text GABLESBB to 70191

Busted Billy...looking better

Not enjoying his pedicure!

Remote control for hearing aids during lockdown People wearing hearing aids can now have their devices adjusted remotely, thanks to new technology rolled out by University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

Over 190 adults have signed up to this service since infection control measures were implemented at Derriford during lockdown.

Using an app linked to the hearing aid, the audiology department is able to adjust hearing aid settings for people who are in the comfort of their own homes.

Adam Beckman, head of Audiology Services, said: “We were concerned about our patients, having suspended all but emergency appointments, so we started setting up hearing aids remotely and posting them out to patients.

“This isn’t the normal way we work, but having remote access has meant we can fine tune the sound quality of the device after it has been tried out in the real world.

“This new technology has meant we can continue to help people whilst still maintaining social distancing, reducing traffic to the hospital and even give access to those people who are shielding at home.

“It’s a really positive outcome for patients, and as this new approach grows it will become much easier for people in even the most remote parts of the UK to get the same quality of service.

“It will be a long time before everyone can be offered the latest technology, but this is a small step towards a future that will be easier for everyone.”The new Danalogic hearing aids link to an app on a smartphone or tablet which is accessed via the cloud in the audiology department.

One patient using the app is 82-year-old Edward Gigg from Plymstock who is shielding. He said: “I’ve found the app very simple to use and didn’t have a problem downloading it.

“It’s definitely better than going out during lockdown and I hope that it will carry on after this period to save making journeys back and forth to the hospital.

“I do find an equal benefit is that I am able to alter the programmes

Edward GIgg from Plymstock...’simple to use’

via the app on my phone rather than pushing buttons on the actual device.”

Plymouth is one of the first parts of the country to use this technology, and other services have been following its lead.

There are an estimated 100,000 adult hearing aid users in the South West peninsula. Approximately 2000 patients are fitted with a hearing aid each year at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

For more information about Audiology Services visit www. plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/audiology

Typically, the charity sees abandonment peak in the summer months. Between June and August 2019, 16,519 animals were reported abandoned to the RSPCA which accounts for 30% of all animals reported abandoned that year.

During the summer months the charity received 282 reports about dumped animals in Devon.

This included a poorly rabbit who was abandoned on a roadside last summer. Found in July (2019) the male rabbit (pictured) was missing all his fur on the underside of his body and legs, with sores and wounds.

RSPCA inspector Claire Ryder remembers: “This poor rabbit was in a very sorry state, it was unthinkable that someone chose to abandon him when he so clearly needed treatment.

“It was clear he had been allowed to suffer for some time, by the state he was in. All the fur on the underside of his body was missing because of the awful conditions he’d lived in.”

The RSPCA is braced for an even bigger impact this summer following the easing of lockdown and the financial impact on the coronavirus pandemic, and has launched an emergency appeal to continue its vital rescue work.

During the three months since lockdown began, the RSPCA has received reports about 3,492 abandoned animals* - about 40 calls a day - including 1,509 dogs, 1,165 cats, 299 small furries such as hamsters, guinea pigs and ferrets and 275 exotic pets.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA’s animal rescue teams, said: “During lockdown we’ve seen pets become a source of comfort and support for people and it appears many people have taken on new animals. Fortunately during this time we’ve dealt with fewer abandoned pets however we are worried that as lockdown eases, people return to work, go on holidays or struggle financially we will be facing a massive surge of animal abandonments.

Dermot added: “Sadly summer tends to bring with it a surge in abandoned animals. We don’t know why but it may be a combination of the warmer weather making people feel less guilty about dumping a pet to fend for themselves and people doing away on holiday abandoning pets instead of arranging care for them.”

RSPCA rescue teams have been working throughout lockdown after being classified as essential key workers. The numbers of animals being cared for by the RSPCA has risen by more than 1,500 to 5,600 during the pandemic Dermot continued: “This is the toughest year yet for the RSPCA despite the huge challenges, our amazing teams have been continuing to rescue animals throughout this crisis.

“I’d urge anyone struggling with their pet to ask for help. Animals have been there to help us through the crisis, please don’t abandon them now.”

What people can do if they’re struggling to care for their pets: • Ask friends and family for help • Contact your vet about payment plans, discounts or vouchers for neutering or any other treatment needed • Get in touch with local rehoming charities for advice • Visit the RSPCA website at www.rspca.org.uk/ adviceandwelfare To help the RSPCA continue to rescue animals that have been abandoned this summer, please visit www.rspca.org.uk/abandonments

20 August 2020

20 August 2020

@PlymChronicle

Selfless kindness and compassion...

THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience It’s July 5 and I am writing this after Super Saturday or whatever phrase we use for acknowledging this day of independence from fifteen weeks of lockdown whilst recognising that COVID-19 has not yet been defeated.

So, is there any positive news about these unprecedented times? I believe there is, because life tends to challenge us on this adventurous journey of existence, from birth to death. With both some negative and positive experiences, whether we like it or not, we all must navigate the choices we are called to make in life.

So, after that existential preamble are you a glass half full or glass half empty type of person? Relevant with the pubs re-opening!

A very interesting comment was made today on the BBC’s Andrew Marr programme

by Sir Simon Stevens, chief executive of the NHS. He said that at the start of the Coronavirus pandemic, the NHS was concerned and preparing for around two million people requiring hospital treatment with perhaps a third of these patients possibly ending up in Intensive Care.

In absolute sensitivity to the families who have lost loved ones through this invisible

enemy, we can at least be grateful that it has not been worse in terms of the number of deaths.

Now the government has the painful task of addressing the economic fallout which Chris Cole we are now realising that it is going to be extremely challenging.

Certain sectors of the business community have been supported through the furlough scheme which is currently scheduled to finish at the end of October.

Of course, we live in the region where the hospitality sector has been decimated and so with care, we need to support our leisure industry whilst staying alert. I would suggest though that this COVID-19 disease is particularly a challenge for the older generation and would encourage younger members of the community to be sensitive to older family members and friends.

The one constant thing that has been obvious through these last weeks is the self-sacrifice of the NHS staff and many who

have volunteered with support and acts of kindness towards their fellow man.

Prince Charles’ statement about the NHS ‘remarkable selflessness’ on the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the NHS expressed what many of us felt. What motivates this kind of selfless kindness?

The parable of the Good Samaritan is told

by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. It is about a Jewish traveller who is stripped of clothing, beaten, and left half dead alongside the road. First a priest and then a Levite come by, but both avoid the man.

Finally, a Samaritan happens upon the traveller. At this time in history, Samaritans and Jews despised each other, but the Samaritan helps the injured man. Jesus is described as telling the parable in response to the question from a lawyer, ‘And who is my neighbour?’

In response, Jesus tells the parable, the conclusion of which is that the neighbour figure in the parable is the man who shows

mercy to the injured man—that is, the Samaritan. He then takes the injured soul to a local inn and tells the innkeeper to take care of the man and pays for the care of the injured traveller.

The story of the ‘Good Samaritan’ is often interpreted as the world and all its’ troubles being represented by the traveller who is beset on his or her journey by robbers, killers and thieves.

Jesus Himself is the Good Samaritan who tends the beaten up and robbed traveller with His care and healing and says to us all who can ‘open up with the spiritual or material resource gained through your own experience and influence’ to take care of this vulnerable person.

Jesus then tells us in the parable that he will support us as we take care of the traveller in our own ‘Inns of Care’. This is the fulfilment of the first and second commandment to ‘Love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and the second is like it to love your neighbour as yourself.’

Well done to all who have shown the courage of true love in these challenging times.

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

£40,000 grant for Improving Lives in Plymouth Improving Lives, the Plymouth-based charity, has been awarded a £40,000 grant by the Government.

Listen on 96.3FM or online at crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

The funding will allow the Improving Lives Veteran and Family Hub to provide ongoing support to veterans and their families through telephone and internet contact, including emerging additional needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Improving Lives is one 100 charities which will benefit from over £5.5 million of extra funding to support serving personnel, veterans and their families.

Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Plymouth Moor View MP Johnny Mercer said: “We mark and give thanks to our veterans for the outstanding service which they have given to this country.

“To show our appreciation we’re advancing veterans issues across government, through the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. I’m delighted as well to confirm extra funding for service charities to help them through the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said: “If it wasn’t for the brave servicemen and women who serve and protect our country, we would not have a United Kingdom to call our home.

“That’s why we must continue to do everything we can to support our veterans through these challenging times.”

General Sir John McColl, Chairman of the Confederation of Service Charities, said: “This emergency funding is a very welcome step towards sustaining life-saving support for those in need across the Armed Forces Community. The Service Charity Sector has once again demonstrated great imagination and determination in adapting its delivery methods during this crisis.”

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22 August 2020

Citizens Advice Plymouth issue warning over big rise in scams

Citizens Advice Plymouth are warning that over a third of British adults (36%) have been the target of a scam since lockdown began.

Polling conducted on behalf of Citizens Advice also showed that certain groups were at an increased risk of being contacted by a scammer, often those who could least afford it: - Of those with a disability or long-term illness, 45% said they had been targeted - Half (50%) of those at an increased risk of coronavirus or shielding had been contacted - Over half (54%) of those who have lost personal income due to the virus have also been contacted.

Jaroslava Hurtikova, research and campaigns Manager at Citizens Advice Plymouth said “Being at home doesn’t protect us from being targeted by scammers. We can all take steps to look out for ourselves and anyone who might be at risk of falling victim to a scam.”

If you’re worried you or someone you know is being scammed, here are some useful tips: • Look into installing a call blocker to help combat telephone scams • Talk to your or their bank immediately if there is any suspicious activity or transactions from their account or credit cards • Report the scam to Citizens Advice who will give you advice on what to do next and report the scam to Trading Standards • Report the scam to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 • If you or someone you know is struggling to pay bills or outstanding debts Citizens Advice may be able to help Jaroslava said: “We see scams of all sorts and types, and no one group of people is immune from falling foul of the scammers. We all have a role to play in being scam aware and helping each other from not falling victim to this“ Take the following steps to safeguard yourself and others from scams: • Be suspicious if you’re contacted out of the blue, even if it’s from a name you recognise • If it sounds too good to be true it probably is • Never send money to someone you’ve never met • Never give out your bank details unless you are certain you can trust the person contacting you • Don’t be rushed – you never need to make a decision straight away and if you feel pressured say ‘no’ • Suspect a scam? Hang up, wait five minutes to clear the line or use another phone to call • Don’t suffer in silence – speak out about scams Citizens Advice Plymouth is urging anyone who thinks they may have been targeted by or has seen an online scam to report it to its Scams Action service, either online or on 0808 250 5050.

For in-person, mail and telephone scams, concerned consumers can report issues to the Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133.

Citizens Advice will give advice on what to do next and report the scam to Trading Standards.

Your guide to community events in your area

In view of the current coronavirus lockdown measures we have held over the usual Community Directory listings as most if not all the events/meetings will not be taking place Your guide to community events in your area

22 August 2020

@PlymChronicle

Movie and theatre star Douglas Hodge does a lockdown video interview with Plymouth school!

Plymouth-born international star of the stage and screen, Douglas Hodge, has done a Google Meet interview from New York with students at Stoke Damerel Community College.

The amazing opportunity came about after the actor, director and writer retweeted the college’s post on Twitter about their Audio Book of the Week, which featured Douglas reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. A bit of detective work from the college discovered that Douglas was from Plymouth, so they tweeted him to ask if he would be willing to do an interview - and he said ‘yes’.

Douglas is best known for his roles in movies such as Joker and TV series’ including The Night Manager, Middlemarch and, most recently, The Great. He is also an award-winning stage actor, winning an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Albin in the West End production of La Cage aux Folles. He later won a Tony award for this role on Broadway.

He also played Willy Wonka in the enormously successful West End run of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory the Musical.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Douglas is in lockdown in New York, unable to return to the UK. Putting the questions to Douglas in the one-hour video link were college sixth formers Asha and Felix, as Asha has an interest in the performing arts and Felix is considering journalism as a possible future career.

College Principal Anita Frier said: “This was a great opportunity for our students to find out about a career working in the arts from such a recognised and talented actor. Douglas was so generous with his time, sharing some amazing stories and experiences.”

During the interview, Douglas revealed that although he left Plymouth as a young boy, he still regards the city as the family’s home-town - and is proud of his roots: “My father worked at Plymouth Dockyard, but he was promoted to Chatham Dockyard, so my brother, my mother and me all upped and left with him and went to Chatham,” he said. “But most of my relatives in my extended family stayed in Plymouth and are still there.”

From Plymouth to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) was a huge jump - and it realised a dream for Douglas, who had always wanted to be an actor ever since he was 12: “The year that I went to RADA, it was a rather brilliant term of people who have all turned out to be pretty staggering - Kenneth Branagh, Mark Rylance, Kathryn Hunter - there were only 23 in the term at RADA so we were put into a small group.

“But I wasn’t like a lot of the people at RADA. Where I had come from, from Plymouth, was very different to how the RADA people were at that

Douglas Hodge Photo: Eyevine

point, so I always felt that I was barging my way into their world. You have to have a deep-seated secret confidence the whole time.”

Douglas gave the students several top tips for succeeding in the arts, which hold true in other careers, too: Be sure this is what you really want to do; prepare as much as you possibly can for every role, train at drama school if you can, and hold on to your self-confidence at times when you suffer rejection and are turned down for roles: “You have to have strength and a belief in yourself. There

“I haven’t earned a single penny for four months because there is no way I can work, so it’s very dangerous and I have some friends who are really in trouble financially.” will be immense rejection - it doesn’t matter who you are.”

Despite all the inevitable rejections and often the repetition involved in acting, Douglas says it is a rewarding career: “I’ve had all sorts of lovely moments. I just did the movie, Joker, which I thought was a fantastic film. They just offered me this part, I didn’t know who else was in it, and I turned up and there’s Joaquin Phoenix in character, and you think, ‘gosh, this is really memorable, not many people get to do this’. There are moments like that where you think ‘wow, this is extraordinary’. And I have got to work with incredible actors. Probably the loveliest thing about being an actor is that you do put yourself into someone else’s shoes every single day. It’s

a lovely way to live your life. Whoever you are playing, you try and see the world through their eyes, even if they are a killer or a murderer, an unhappy person, someone who’s gay or is straight or whatever they are, you are living as that person and seeing it through their eyes. I think that is a very lovely thing to do to yourself. It does help you broaden your own tolerance and understanding of people. You have to be constantly empathetic.

Certainly, in La Cage aux Folles [where Douglas played somebody who felt that they should be a woman and was born a man], that really meant that I had to do that, and I thought that it really did have an impact on people’s lives.”

This summer, Douglas should have been at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London with the new musical of 101 Dalmatians, for which he has written all the songs - words and music. That had to be postponed because of the pandemic, and it has been rescheduled for next summer. The interview with Stoke Damerel Community College was just after Theatre Royal Plymouth announced redundancy plans and just before the Government unveiled a £1.57 billion rescue package for the arts. TRP is also to receive an £800,000 emergency bailout from the Arts Council.

Douglas himself has not been able to work since the pandemic struck: “I’m terribly worried, really. On television and film, it’s a complete shut-down. I was going to shoot a movie with Katie Holmes in New York right now, of course that’s completely shut down.

“In TV, The Great, with Elle Fanning - it’s a brilliant, funny series, it’s a bit like Blackaddder or Monty Python and it’s about Catherine The Great, it’s going to be on Channel 4 from January - I shot 10 episodes of that last year and in September we were due to shoot the next 10 episodes for Series 2. But that is completely up in the air. I think the ways of trying to get business back at the moment are almost impossible.

“I haven’t earned a single penny for four months because there is no way I can work, so it’s very dangerous and I have some friends who are really in trouble financially.

“But I’m extremely relieved about the package that the Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has put forward to rescue theatre,” he added. “It was more than hoped for and does offer some light at the end of the tunnel.”

Douglas harbours a hope of one day getting the chance to tread the boards in Plymouth: “I’ve never performed in Plymouth before, but I have directed there, a farce called See How They Run and I watched it every single night with a different relative. I was very proud, taking them in! It would be nice to do something with Theatre Royal Plymouth now, to try and raise some money for them - if I can ever get out of New York!”

Adventure golf and dining out at China Fleet China Fleet Country Club at Saltash is increasing its family attractions with the launch of an outdoor adventure golf course alongside a new dining facility called The Cabin Café & Bar.

Filled with striking wooden carved features and exciting course challenges, the 18-hole outdoor facility will appeal to families, along with the new café and bar which offers indoor and outdoor seating and a play park.

“Adventure golf has massively grown in popularity as an attraction on the UK leisure scene and there is currently nothing like this available in Saltash so we are excited to bring this to the local area” said managing director Dean Bennett.

“Our adventure golf offers an exciting and affordable day out

for all ages, family and friends.

It is also perfect for those team

building, corporate events. We will also be offering fantastic birthday parties for the children and are updating our existing nature trail to include an exciting Woodland Fairy Trail, where the children can solve clues, whilst on a family walk by the beautiful Tamar Estuary with the chance of winning a prize at the end” “We are sure the adventure golf course and The Cabin will be a great addition to our current offering, and a real compliment to the driving range, where if you really want to get competitive this is the place to practise your golf skills! We look forward to welcoming many more visitors from the local area and further afield.”

For more information go to www.china-fleet.co.uk

August 2020

@PlymChronicle

23

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City College Plymouth set up their own foodbank before Christmas

Community spirit shines bright at City College City College Plymouth is calling on the generosity of students, staff and the wider community to support local foodbanks.

The college has joined the national FE Foodbank Friday campaign, which has seen further education organisations around the country raising money for community foodbanks that have struggled due to the decline in donations since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The college’s own foodbank, which was set up before Christmas, is still supporting students facing financial hardship. However, with the college still closed to a majority of students and staff, it has struggled

to maintain its supplies. Through this fundraising campaign, the college hopes to be able to replenish its own foodbank and support others in the area.

Bob Hunter, director of student journey, said: “Our college foodbank, set up by our kind and community-minded student body, has been a lifeline for those students and their families who have needed that extra support during the coronavirus pandemic.

“I am proud to be part of this caring college community and I am delighted that City College Plymouth is joining the FE Foodbank Friday campaign so our students can continue making a positive difference to

our local community. I know times are tough for many people right now, but whatever you can spare will go a long way to supporting a family or individual facing hardship.”

Nearly 20 other further education colleges throughout the country are also involved in the campaign.City College has set an initial fundraising goal of £1,500. For further details about the campaign or to make a donation, visit the JustGiving page using the link www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/citycollegeplymouth-foodbank.

Students wishing to enquire about the college foodbank can do so by sending an e-mail to studentliaison@cityplym.ac.uk.

Let’s go fishing again!

Plymouth Boat Trips has reopened its river cruises, fishing trips and remaining ferry services.

Passengers will be able to travel, by water, to the beaches of Cawsand and Kingsand, cruise the River Tamar and take the popular, connecting Barbican, Royal William Yard, Mount Edgcumbe ferry, as lockdown measures are further eased by government.

Among the new rules of travel, face coverings are mandatory on board, and a one-way system will operate throughout all vessels. Additional boats will be in service to allow adequate social distancing, without reducing timetables, and contactless payment will be encouraged to reduce contact between staff and passengers.

All Plymouth Boat Trips services were suspended in March, when the Prime

Lions support for Foodbank

The Lions Club of Plymouth have donated £200 to the Oasis Project Foodbank.

The club decided that as charities in general are finding funds are scarce in the present climate, the donation was intended to help support the supply and distribution of food to the homeless and needy of Plymouth. President George Poad presented the cheque to Andrew Denham of the Oasis Project Foodbank.

Minister announced strict lock down measures across the UK. Party cruises and private charters remain on hold for now and, as with the recently reopened Cremyll Ferry service, there will be reduced passenger capacity.

Additional safety measures include table service on all cruise boats, the availability of hand sanitizer for passengers on boarding and regular cleaning between trips. Social distancing signage will be displayed, and queues managed, to ensure boarding and alighting passengers do not interact.

Owner of Plymouth Boat Trips, Ben Squire said: “We’re excited to be restarting operations, offering people the chance to get out on the wonderful waters of Plymouth again, and we’ve put all the necessary measures in place, to ensure that staff and passengers remain safe on board.” www.plymouthboattrips.co.uk

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 Crossline Listening Service 0300 111 0101 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Action 01752 651800 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Drug Addicts Anonymous: Helpline 07818260811 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 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

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Leisure 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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24 August 2020

24 August 2020

@PlymChronicle

‘Resurgam’ programme rises to challenge of reviving economy Keeping the pounds in Plymouth, skills development and a pipeline of construction that will keep people in work during a critical time for the city’s economy - those are the first projects under the spotlight as part of Resurgam - the city’s economic response to the challenges presented by COVID-19.

The Council’s Cabinet has been given its first update of Resurgam - a plan to reduce the impact of Covid-19 and to deliver a more equal, sustainable and prosperous city.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “We need to do all we can to look after our own businesses and to support them in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This programme is about seeing what we as a council can do to protect jobs in our city and helping our residents.

“These are practical measures that could make a difference to thousands of families.

“We’ve set a target of increasing by 10 per cent any spend on Plymouth goods or services.

“In the next few weeks we will launch our Skills Launchpad, so that those who find themselves out of work can get all the advice the city and its partners offer in one place and we will start or restart our big building projects, which will safeguard thousands of jobs. This is just the start.”

The council has reviewed its procurement process to maximise opportunities for local businesses and has set a target to increase spending with local suppliers by 10 per cent.

Over two years this will secure 280 jobs and keep an extra £8.2 million GVA in the local economy.

It has jump-started a building programme which will provide a critical and steady supply of jobs, contracts and opportunities for local companies and contractors.

The programme will see major road improvements on key routes to major employment areas as well as new homes and new business space.

It is working with the Department of Work and Pensions and the business sector to create an online one stop shop for people facing redundancy as well as more targeted support for young people through a new youth hub.

This will provide information, advice, real-time labour market intelligence, and match real opportunities to pathways into employment, apprenticeships and traineeships, work experience, training, education, volunteering and selfemployment.

The Resurgam programme was announced in May in response to the lockdown and its economic impact. Since then teams have been ‘on it’, providing extra support to businesses in the short term, as well as looking at where they could make a real

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over 21,000

homes in Plympton and Plymstock

Council leader Tudor Evans: ‘We need to do all we can to look after our own businesses and support them in the aftermath of the pandemic’

difference in the longer term.

As emergency economic responder, the council has already given direct, practical help to Plymouth businesses through administering business grant support - that’s 4,043 businesses helped, £46.9 million paid out in grants and 3,400 helpline calls taken.

Resurgam is Latin for ‘I shall rise again’ and the word became part of Plymouth’s history when it appeared on a wooden sign over the bombed out St Andrew’s Church during the Blitz That’s just the start. Six key delivery pillars have been identified through the Resurgam progamme. They are: Sector action plans: individual action plans to support recovery and growth for each of the city’s 13 key economic sectors: retail, defence, health tech, health and care, marine, manufacturing, digital, creative industries, tourism and hospitality, arts entertainment and recreation, construction and built environment, transport and distribution and fishing.

Build 4 Plymouth: Planned and new council The Plympton and Plymstock Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Woodford, Plympton St Mary and St Maurice, Chaddlewood, Langage, Elburton, Plymstock, Hooe, Turnchapel, Staddiscombe, Oreston, Pomphlett and Billacombe.

The September edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Plympton and Plymstock will be published on August 14 with a copy deadline of . The Plympton and Plymstock edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000

projects which are designed to stimulate growth for the city and its economy.

As well as creating hundreds of construction jobs, the projects aim to create opportunity. The projects cover transport, infrastructure, commercial property, housing and regeneration and as well as looking to speed up delivery, the council will lobby Government for funding Spend 4 Plymouth: Improving procurement processes to make sure the council spends as much as it can on Plymouth goods and services so that the city gets the most out of council contracts.

The aim is to increase current local spend by 10 per cent, maximising opportunities for the local supply chain, delivering social value through supporting local jobs and skills, looking after the environment and supporting communities.

Skills Launchpad Plymouth: An emergency taskforce to support Plymouth people facing redundancy. This includes targeted support for young people and school leavers whose plans and opportunities have been affected

by Covid-19. We will plan and prepare for future skills demands to identify the skills needed and to equip local people into employment.

City centre renaissance: Support for businesses to reopen and driving footfall through marketing campaigns. Making vacant units available for use, to improve public realm and encourage regeneration of our city centre.

Recovery Beacons: Three core areas have been identified as beacons for recovery; Marine, Green and Culture. This is an opportunity to kick-start our Green economy, a focus on new jobs, skills and future talent, and support our ambitions for a greener city.

We will also use our marine credentials and strengths at Oceansgate, the dockyard and our incredible marine learning and research facilities to harness growth opportunities and create jobs for our blue economy. And we will also use The Box and the Mayflower programme as a springboard for cultural, leisure and tourism industries.

CEO of Devon and Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Stuart Elford said: “We fully support the Resurgam plan for Plymouth and are pleased to have worked alongside the City Council to develop it, ensuring that it is supportive of and relevant to our businesses that will lead the economic recovery.

“The council has worked tirelessly to deliver immediate and extensive support to businesses in the area and this plan sets out the next phase as we not just survive but thrive as we come out of the COVID crisis.

“We will continue to work with the council in this powerful public and private partnership to ensure its successful delivery.” homes throughout the city.

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It’s easy now to see your GP: Six things you need to know More and more people in Plymouth are seeing their GPs as services continue to adapt to keep people safe from coronavirus.

Services like routine vaccinations and smear tests are now being offered, in addition to usual weekday GP appointments which can be held by phone, online or face-to-face.

Many people are surprised to know that GP services are fully available. Here’s how it works: 1. If you need to see a GP, contact them online via their website, or by phone 2. You will be offered a telephone, online or video consultation 3. Your GP may suggest you have a face-to-face appointment in the practice 4. If you do need to visit for an appointment, your practice will tell you everything you need to know when you come and what measures are in place to keep you safe 5. If your GP thinks you need to be referred to hospital for review or treatment, they will arrange this 6. If you are given an appointment, it’s really important to attend The NHS in Plymouth and the rest of Devon has pioneered essential new ways of working that have kept key services operating and, thanks to the efforts of staff, volunteers and the local community, kept the number of COVID-19 cases among the lowest in the country.

Many innovations have brought improvements that are here to stay – such as easy online appointments with GPs and hospital teams – nearly 45,000 consultations have already taken place this way and brought positive feedback from patients.

Now there are new challenges to ensure that Devon stays vigilant and ready for any future outbreaks.

Some services are being run from different locations so patients may be asked to attend at new venues – it is very important to keep these appointments which are designed to ensure the best possible care and treatment in the right place.

Anyone already on a waiting list will be contacted about what happens next and the likely timeline in which to be seen. Patients may be offered a video consultation for either a first or follow-up appointment. Services are working hard to provide more appointments for those facing longer waits and those at higher risk, particularly in mental health, where demands are increasing.

Those with symptoms that could be due to cancer will continue to be referred for an urgent assessment with the aim to be seen within two weeks. It may be necessary to travel to a different location than usual.

Hospitals and GP practices across the county have put in place special measures to protect patients and staff from COVID-19, whether they are treating a patient with symptoms of the virus, or for other illnesses. In many cases those affected by the virus are being seen in separate areas.

Patients needing urgent or emergency treatment throughout the COVID-19 outbreak have continued to receive it and other services are resuming, including diagnostics and surgery, so people are being urged to keep all appointments, wherever they are asked to attend.

Chronicle Plymouth

August 2020

Gables Dog and Cats Home are appealing for help fund the care for an old, battered cat called Busted Billy See page 19

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 to 6

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Plympton & Plymstock

St Luke’s Hospice are appealing for supporters to ‘go the extra mile’ to raise funds for its vital work See page 17

ALSO INSIDE:

• Dial the Experts • Cross Rhythms • Community Job Experience Shop • Useful numbers

Marathon fund-raiser for NSPCC Colleagues at the NSPCC Centre in Plymouth have embarked on a month-long effort to raise money to help fund the work in the city protecting children from sexual abuse.

Sarah Cox, children’s service practitioner, who organised the campaign, is pictured here with her dog Paws during one of their fund-raising walks • See story on page 9