The Plymouth Chronicle Plympton & Plymstock September 2020

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Plympton & Plymstock

September 2020

A new app has been launched featuring self-guided history trails around the city See page 13

CONNECT WITH US

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

Theatre Royal Plymouth has announced details of five blockbusters shows See page 11

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

Plymouth’s Clip ‘n Climb is back!

Plymouth’s popular Clip ‘n Climb centre in Derriford is back in business after being closed for four months. The attraction has followed Government guidelines to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for customers of all ages

• See story on page 22

2 September 2020

2 September 2020

Let’s work together to stay safe and protect local businesses I’d like to say a big thank you to Plymouth residents and businesses for helping keep the number of cases of COVID-19 in Plymouth low.

Keeping up the measures to keep each other safe, such as wearing face coverings, washing hands, social distancing and getting tested, is saving lives, as well as protecting livelihoods.

We can’t afford to relax our guard though. The experience of some of towns and cities has shown the risks of COVID-19 are still very much with us.

We need to continue to work together

to avoid the need for the measures and restrictions that have caused disruption to daily life and local businesses elsewhere.

Many Plymouth businesses have been badly impacted by having to remain closed during the lockdown. As a Council we continue to work with our partners on ambitious plans to support Plymouth businesses in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Through our Resurgam plan we have a substantial programme to invest in schemes that will both support existing

jobs and create new ones.

We are also starting or restart our big building projects, which will safeguard thousands of jobs. This is just the start.

We’ve set targets to ensure that Plymouth businesses benefit as much as possible when we are buying goods or services.

We have also launched our Skills Launchpad so that those who find themselves out of work can get all the advice in one place.

Please continue to protect yourselves and help keep Plymouth safe.

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Councillor Tudor Evans Leader of Plymouth City Council

How we can keep the number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth down

By Dr Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health for Plymouth We are fortunate that in Plymouth the number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth is currently low.

As we come into the back end of summer, the situation in Plymouth remains at a constant low level, with a few new cases being reported each week.

You can always check the latest position on our website at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19, where you can view a graph showing the number of cases in Plymouth over time.

Though there have been many people in Plymouth who have been ill, and even lost their lives because of COVID-19, our levels are amongst the lowest per head of population in the country.

It all goes to show that by working together, we can look after each other and help to keep our communities safe.

It can sometimes be hard keeping up-to-date with the latest information and guidance about COVID-19.

Dr Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health To help, our COVID-19 website includes frequently asked questions, as well as links to sources of advice and help. You

can find some of these questions answered on the next page.

Despite the low number of cases in Plymouth, we are not complacent.

It is vital that our prevention work is ongoing and that we are prepared in case there is a rise in cases.

We have an outbreak management plan in place for Plymouth, so we can deal with an outbreak quickly and efficiently.

We very much hope that this will not be the case, but it’s essential to prepare.

There is guidance available to help businesses, schools, colleges, care homes and hotels and restaurants stay safe.

This includes action cards providing a checklist of things to do in the event of an outbreak.

They’re available from the Public Health England website and you can find the link on our COVID-19 web pages.

Our public health team is also happy to advise on any queries. You can contact a member of the team on COVID19@ Plymouth.gov.uk.

The simple precautions you can take to stay safe You can reduce your chances of becoming infected or spreading the virus by taking a number of simple precautions.

Wash your hands Washing your hands thoroughly and often is one of the easiest ways you can help protect yourself from COVID-19. Outside your home, you should use alcohol-based hand

sanitiser if possible and avoid touching your face.

Keep your distance The risk of infection increases the closer you are to another person and the longer you spend with them. Wherever possible, you must try to keep two metres away from people who are outside your household or support bubble.

You can also lower the risk of infection by standing side by side, rather than face to face.

Wear a face covering Face coverings must now be worn in many enclosed public spaces.

This applies not only to public transport, shops and hospitals but also to museums, cinemas and places of worship.

Face coverings do not have to be worn in places where it would be impractical to do so, for instance, in pubs and restaurants or when visiting the dentist.

You can use either a single-use face covering or a reusable cloth mask and you can also make your own mask.

The key thing is that it should cover your nose and mouth. Wash your hands before putting it on or taking it off, handle it by the straps and avoid touching the part that covers your face.

Some people are exempt from wearing

face masks, including children under the age of 11. They should not be worn at all by children under the age of 3.

Face coverings do not replace social distancing.

Get tested If you have symptoms you and your household must isolate at home and arrange for anyone with symptoms to have a test.

You can do this online at gov.uk or by calling 119 if you have no internet access.

If you test positive, the NHS Test and Trace service will contact you with instructions on how to share details of places you have recently visited and people with whom you have had recent, close contact.

If you are contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service because one of your contacts has tested positive, you must self-isolate for 14 days from your last contact with them.

You must do this even if you don’t have symptoms. If you do develop symptoms, you should arrange a test and the rest of your household should also start to self-isolate.

If you can’t be reached by phone, text or email, tracers may knock on your door. You may also be contacted if you live in an area experiencing a localised outbreak.

Visit the GOV.UK website for the latest information on getting tested.

September 2020

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3

COVID-19: keeping up with what you can and can’t do It can sometimes be difficult keeping up with latest rules being put in place by the Government to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Plymouth City Council aims to help keep residents up-to-date on the guidance and position in Plymouth through regular email bulletins, its COVID-19 website and through social media.

The latest government guidance is available on the GOV.UK website.

Here are some of the key things you can and can’t do.

of your own household. During visits you should continue to maintain social distancing with anyone you do not live with or who is not in your support bubble.

8 You should not socialise indoors in groups of more than two households – this includes when dining out or going to the pub.

8 You should not interact socially with anyone outside the group you are attending a place with, even if you see other people you know, for example, in a restaurant, community centre or place of worship.

households (anyone in the same support bubble counts as one household).

8 You should not socialise outdoors in a group of more than six people from different households; gatherings larger than six should only take place if everyone is from exclusively from two households or support bubbles.

Socialising indoors 4 You can meet indoors in groups of up to two households (anyone in your support bubble counts as one household). This includes inviting people from one household into your home or visiting the home of someone else with members

Socialising outdoors 4 You can meet in groups of up to six people who you do not live with or who are not in your support bubble.

4 You can also meet people in groups of more than six people if everyone is exclusively from two

Staying overnight 4 You can stay overnight in someone else’s home. However, you should ensure you maintain social distancing with anyone you do not live with or who is not in your support bubble.

8 You should not stay overnight away from

Celebrations 8 You should not hold or attend celebrations (such as parties) where it is difficult to maintain social distancing and avoid close social interaction.

your home with members of more than one other household (your support bubble counts as one household).

Playing sports 4 You can play team sport if this is formally organised by a sports club or similar organisation and sports governing body guidance has been issued.

8 You should not be playing team sports where the relevant governing body has published guidance on how to do so safely.

Sharing a car

8 You should try not to share a vehicle with those outside your household or social bubble.

If you need to, you should take precautions such as opening windows for ventilation and asking the driver and passengers to wear a face covering.

Your questions about coronavirus answered How many people in Plymouth have had coronavirus? And how many have died?

During the week 1 August to 7 August there were three new cases confirmed in Plymouth, a decrease on the previous week total of seven.

This is a rate of 1.1 per 100,000 people. This is below the current rate for England, which is 9.1 per 100,000 people.

The total number of confirmed cases in Plymouth since the start of the outbreak is 681.

A total of 88 Plymouth resident deaths have been associated with COVID-19 since the start of the outbreak.

Are rates of coronavirus high or low in Plymouth?

As stated above, the current rate is 1.1 per 100,000 people. This is below the current rate for England which is 9.1 per 100,000 people.

The Local Outbreak Management Plan will allow for early identification and intervention of future outbreaks, ensuring that any further spread of the virus is minimised.

There’s lots of talk about support ‘bubbles’.

What are they?

In England, an option to form a support bubble with one other household is available for people who live on their own or for single parents with dependents – households with just one adult in essence. Support bubbles do not need to socially distance but you must follow social distancing guidelines if meeting anyone outside of your bubble.

Is it OK to visit relatives in care homes?

Care homes are known to be settings at higher risk of an outbreak. Each care home will have its own policy in relation to keeping its residents safe but given the higher risk of

Here are answers to some of the questions that people frequently ask.

You can find more questions and answers on the Council’s website at plymouth.gov.uk/Covid-19. an outbreak in these settings, general visits are still restricted. This may change over time, but please talk to the care home about any precautions you may need to take before you visit to keep your relatives safe.

Is a home-made face covering ok to use?

Yes. A face covering can be as simple as a scarf or a bandana tied behind your head to cover your nose and mouth. It is important to ensure that any covering allows you to breathe comfortably.

Face coverings are not the same as medical face masks used as part of Personal Protective Equipment, therefore social distancing and hygiene practices should still be observed.

Do I need to leave post, parcels and groceries for a few days to kill the virus?

There’s no evidence that anyone has caught COVID-19 from items of post, but the virus has been found to live on paper and plastic for a short time.

You should make

sure you wash your hands after touching anything that has recently been handled by another person, or after opening post or parcels and disposing of the outer layers. If you are concerned, then you can wipe down with an antiviral spray or set them aside for a short time.

Is shielding still in place?

The Government’s shielding arrangements for the medically vulnerable were paused on 1 August.

This makes it even more important that we continue to look out for friends, family and neighbours to keep each other safe.

Caring for Plymouth, an alliance between the Council, Livewell Southwest and a large number of voluntary and community sector organisations, has been helping ensure that those shielding at home have been provided with emotional support, shopping, medicine collection, support with paying bills and accessing money, if needed.

It is important to know that if you still need help, you can call the Council on 01752 668000.

You can also find information about support available on the Plymouth Online Directory website.

4 September 2020

4 September 2020

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Controversial go ahead given for new use of old bank building in Plympton City planners have approved a planning application which will see the old HSBC building in Plympton Ridgeway become home to two new businesses - despite a number of objections to the proposals.

Ibrahim Piek submitted a planning application to subdivide the existing building to be used as a restaurant and barbers shop.

The matter came before Plymouth City Council’s planning committee in July in a meeting which was held online rather than in the council house due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Plympton Erle Councillor Terri Beer told the committee that while local residents welcomed the building being brought back into use there were concerns about the impact of having yet another hairdressing business in Ridgeway.

“Currently there are 14 hairdressers and barbershops in Ridgeway,” Cllr Beer told the committee, adding: “Is it really essential to have yet another hairdressers on the Ridgeway which will saturate the shopping centre and affect businesses already well established.

What Ridgeway really needs more than anything is a diverse shopping offer not the same old same old.”

Cllr Beer also pointed out there were already ten eateries on Ridgeway, five of which open in the evening.”One more again would cause saturation” she said.

Cllr Beer’s sentiments were shared by Plym Chamber of Commerce President Andrew Briggs who also addressed planners with his concerns.

Plympton Rotary President Darren Hands and the Revd Robert Harris with the new defibrillator outside St Mary’s Church Hall

“I am very concerned the proposal will have a negative impact on Ridgeway. Too many of anything is a bad thing,” Mr Briggs told the committee citing the previous overpopulation of fruit and veg shops in Stoke Village which ultimately proved unsustainable.

Mr Briggs also pointed out that the most recent food shop to open up on Ridgeway closed within a few months and has not reopened since.

He added: “I think planning has a responsibility to create a positive shopping experience and I think if we have a look at somewhere like Totnes as being a small town with lots of individual little shops people flood to Totnes to do shopping.

Ridgeway needs to have a balance of retail outlets. I think at the moment we need diversity and harmony and I think oversaturation of any one business is a bad thing.”

Plympton St Mary ward councillor Patrick Nicholson unsuccessfully moved to have the application deferred to allow for further discussion with the applicant over the commercial viability of the proposed application.

Some other members of the committee did not feel it was the role of a planning committee to consider the commercial viability of an application, only whether it complied with planning laws and policies.

Cllr Sarah Allen also felt it was important to bring disused buildings back into use.

After lengthy deliberations the application was put to the vote and approved by 9 votes to 4.

(Story courtesy of www.plymptonpodcast.org.uk)

Church hall gets defibrillator St Mary’s Church Hall is the latest Plympton location to get a defibrillator thanks to the Rotary Club of Plympton.

George Benjafield, Plympton Rotary President in 2017/18 set an aim to see the Rotary club fund at least one defibrillator in the local Plympton community. Through Hearts Together (formerly HeartSWell), this was achieved last September when Chaddlewood Primary School unveiled a publicly accessible defibrillator, funded by the Rotary Club.

However there were funds left over and so the Plympton Rotarians decided to fund a second device With the help of local Community First Responder Ray Burch, a location was found at St Mary’s Church Hall in Market Road and it is with great delight that 2020/21 Plympton Rotary President Darren Hands has been able to officially hand this second device over to the Plympton community.

The commissioning of the defibrillator was

delayed due to the COVID-19 crisis but the formal handover by Darren Hands in July to Revd Robert Harris, Team Rector for Plympton Team Ministry and Phil Smith, Churchwarden of St Mary’s Church was much appreciated as Plympton continues to develop its ability to serve the needs of all people across Plympton at times of need.

Revd Harris was delighted to host the installation of the additional defibrillator in the Parish which is located by the entrance to the Church Hall, opposite St Mary’s Church and is near to St Mary’s Playing Field, St Mary’s CofE Infants School and Underwood area, which will enhance this vital provision of medical support across Plympton.

Suzie Ottewell, headteacher at the adjacent St Mary’s Infants School, said: “This is welcome news for our infant school as we host many events with children, parents and grandparents present and it is a relief to know this is now located close to the school.” (story courtesy of www.plymptonpodcast.org.uk)

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September 2020

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£10m boost for Plymouth building projects Plymouth is all set to receive up to £10 million to help a number of new construction projects get off the ground.

The Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership has been allocated over £35 million from the Government’s Getting Building Fund to spend on projects ready to go and £10 million of that is within sight for key Plymouth projects.

The projects chosen will support employment, regeneration, skills and innovation and play an important part of the city’s economic recovery programme, Resurgam.

Leader of Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans, said: “This is cracking news. We responded quickly with a number of shovel ready projects and the case on each was very compelling. If there are further calls, we have a pipeline of projects lined up and ready to go.

“Through Resurgam we set out our stall that economic recovery for Plymouth is massively important to us - this approach is already paying off.”

The projects are: • An additional £4.17 million for Phase 2 of Brunel Plaza/train station concourse development. The city has ambitious plans to transform this gateway, creating a thriving entrance with public realm, office and retail.

A series of phased developments is planned including modernising and refreshing the concourse. Phase 1 of the concourse entails moving and expanding the ticket gateline.

The funding will also go towards the refurbishment of Intercity House by the University of Plymouth,the transfer of land from Network Rail to Plymouth City Council for a new multi-storey car park, new pedestrian gateway to the city centre and new

accommodation for British Transport Police, GWR and Cross Country staff.

Additional funding is being sought to extend the project by carrying a second phase of improvements to the station concourse.

• £1.9 million for City Business Park in Stoke to help fund a new sustainable building providing 10,000 square feet of flexible workspace for start-ups and businesses looking to expand.

• £1.03 million for Plymouth Science Park

towards development of a new health technology innovation centre to drive the growth of the health tech sector. The hub will support businesses, becoming a focal point between them, the University of Plymouth’s world class research and the University Hospital’s Plymouth NHS Trust.

• £350,000 to refurbish the welding facilities at City College Plymouth. There is currently high demand for skilled welders across the South West and the funding will enable the college to double the number of

An artist’s impression of the Plymouth Railway Station development. Photo copyright Plymouth City Council

welding bays and specialist trainers.

Plymouth is also bidding for £1.7 million funding from the HotSW LEP’s Green Housing and Business Programme to deliver 68 net zero carbon homes and help retrofit homes.

A business case will now be completed for all the projects by the end of August.

SURGEON DAVID PAIN FREE AFTER YEARS OF DISCOMFORT Performing highly skilled surgery for hours at a time is a challenging role for anyone; having the added complication of chronic foot pain increased those challenges for surgeon David Chan.

David, a keen walker in his offduty hours, suffered with forefoot pain for a few years, triggered by walking long distance on holiday wearing less than suitable trainers.

Subsequently, he was told he had high arches and was given generic insoles from a high street shop, which he used on and off for a few years. They did not really help.

His professional life required him to be on his feet for up to eight, uncomfortable hours a day. “There was always a dull ache, and the pain peaked when I was in surgery,” said David. “I was so focused I would ignore it, but some days I had to ice my feet when I got home.”

The pain also spoiled a holiday at Lake Como, where David spent two days indoors because of it.

“The pain simply became too bad,” said David, “I was desperate.”

An advert in a magazine led him to Foot Solutions in November 2019, where he was given a comprehensive, free foot health assessment, after which a pair of customised arch supports and footwear was

recommended.

“I was unsure at first, but the investment into the right footwear and support has been so worthwhile. After two to three weeks they relieved the pain completely.”

That was nine months ago, and David has been so impressed by the continued improvement that he now has three pairs of shoes from Foot Solutions – Brooks trainers, work shoes and Merrell hiking boots – and says he would recommend that anyone with foot pain visits the store.

David now performs life-changing surgery for his patients free from pain, and he can enjoy days out with his wife and their two year old daughter,

walking along the South West coast path and other local routes.

If foot pain is affecting your work and leisure life, give Foot Solutions a call to arrange a COVID-safe appointment where they will carry out a foot health assessment for free, as the first step to finding the best solution for you.

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6 September 2020

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A tale of two new books...

Blogger turned author - at 92!

A Plymouth man has just published his first book - at the age of 92!

Kenneth Wheeler, who lives in Crabtree, has published Inspirations - a collection of short stories and poems that document his journey of faith and his years serving in the RAF as a Christian.

All proceeds from sales of the book are being donated to Open Doors charity, to support Christians who are being persecuted for their faith.

Kenneth was born in Stonehouse in 1928 and was the youngest of 11 children.

He survived the Blitz where his school was bombed and joined the RAF just as the Second World War ended. He served in the RAF for 32 years before leaving and taking the post of manager at the Officers’ Mess at Mount Batten.

Kenneth’s journey of faith started after his mother was taken seriously ill and was given little hope of surviving.

“I knew I needed to do something and decided to ask for God’s help,” said Kenneth. “I went to a service at the Elim Church in Stonehouse just down the road from where we lived and was literally in tears throughout.

“At the end of the service the pastor saw I was distressed and he and several church members prayed for me and laid hands on me, knowing that I was worried about my mum’s situation.

“After they finished praying the pastor told me that I would see a miracle when I went home to see my mum. And I did not only did she survive the illness, but went on to live for another seven years.”

Kenneth writes a Blog on Facebook every day about his life now and in the past - and has hundreds of followers

Kenneth Wheeler

in the UK and further afield. When one of them suggested he should make his Blogs into a book, Kenneth discussed the idea with one of his sons Steve, who then helped edit it and arrange for print and publication.

The book is available in Kindle and paperback versions on Amazon and has

already received a number of five star reviews - helping it to reach No 5 in the Christian book charts, up there with famous names such as Bear Grylls!

To find out more visit Amazon and search for Kenneth Wheeler Inspirations.

To read his daily Blog visit www.facebook. com/kenwheelerblog

Inspired by life in lockdown...

A single mum from Stoke has published her first book - inspired by the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on families.

Mother of four Linda Cartwright is a self-employed counsellor and therapist, looking after people with mental health issues.

Like many self-employed people, when lockdown was announced Linda’s income dried up completely. She said: “While everyone was stocking up on loo rolls I was left with just 83p in the bank and four children at home. It was nothing short of terrifying.

“I contacted Universal Credit, but the only thing they could give me was a Foodbank voucher. It was the first time I had ever had to rely on others to feed my family and it was certainly humbling.

“During lockdown, friends of mine, our local church and another trip to the Foodbank have fed my family. I am sure I am not alone.

“While trying to scramble some income together selling craft packs to children around Plymouth, I was thinking about the toll it must be taking on children’s mental health during lockdown and also coming out of lockdown after being home for so long.

“I woke up at 2am one night with two verses going over and over in my head and I had to get up and write them down before I could go back to sleep.”

From those verses Linda was inspired to write a book for children, about children in lockdown.

The 24-page book called Alfie and Alexa is a lyrical tale of two children in lockdown - one who hated it and one who loved it. Alfie is grumpy about it all and confused, while Alexa is loving having family around and no pressure.

Linda said: “I believe that most children will swing from one set of emotions to the other probably on a daily basis. This book will open up discussions in families or in September with teachers as children head nervously or

Linda Cartwright

joyfully back to school.”

In the back of the book - which was illustrated by one of her friend’s daughters Elise Smith - is a keepsake section for families to record their experiences and pictures of lockdown.

Profits from the book are going to the NHS and Plymouth Christian Centre Foodbank.

To find out more or to buy a copy visit www. alfieandalexa.co.uk

September 2020

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Plymouth Argyle in new effort to tackle loneliness Plymouth Argyle are joining forces with 31 Football League clubs as part of a major new programme to tackle loneliness among older people.

The English Football League Trust is receiving £810,000 from the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) to support League Club community organisations in 32 deprived locations across England with the aim of connecting more older people at risk of loneliness.

A recent study from the Office National Statistics (ONS) showed that 2.6 million adults reported that they felt lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’, while 7.4 million adults reported their wellbeing had been affected by having felt lonely in the past seven days.

The EFL Trust network has a history of working with people across all generations and have a track record of connecting the people who need it most.

Mike Evans, chief executive of the EFL Trust said: “We are proud to have been chosen to be part of this vital mission to support the older people in

our communities. We see this as an endorsement of the great work that the Argyle Community Trust and others like it have done in this area and we know there is so much more that our network will achieve.

“Our health and wellbeing team are working hard to match the expertise of our network to the communities where it is most desperately needed and we continue to work with DCMS, NHS, Public Health England and other agencies to ensure we can all build back better after COVID-19.”

Last year the Trust launched the Extra Time Hubs movement, to engage retired and semiretired people to combat loneliness and inactivity.

Funded by Sport England, through the National Lottery, the first pathfinder Hubs are run at Argyle and 10 other EFL clubs.

Iris, who attends Argyle’s Extra Time Hub, has found it to be a great support.

She said: “I found that since my husband passed away, I was finding myself increasingly lonely, and wanted to fill my time with new things and find some new friends.

“I love our weekly meet ups. I have made so

7

Photo: Age UK

many new friends and the staff go out of their way to make us welcome and encourage us to try new things. We are a great support for each other.”

Recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to ensure that older and more vulnerable fans and members of the community are not isolated have stepped up with groups meeting online, WhatsApp groups being set up and regular phone calls made by community teams, players and managers, to check on people’s wellbeing.

Clubs have also made doorstep visits to check in on community members across the country.

Roger, 80, is an Argyle season ticket holder who has benefited from the support that has been offered by the club. As the country went into lockdown, he unexpectedly lost his wife and faced isolation on his own.

The Argyle Community Trust have supported him with regular calls and doorstep visits.

Roger said: “Losing my wife was a terrible time and facing isolation alone was something I was dreading, however the support that I have received from Argyle Community Trust and the

club has been fantastic and has helped me feel less lonely and got through the darker days.”

The new grants will fund expanded activities across the country under the campaign Let’s Tackle Loneliness Together.

Work includes befriending phone calls, online social groups, a pen-pal scheme, social action from young people taking part in NCS, and socially distanced ‘garden gate’ conversations to emerge across EFL communities and reach the people who need this vital support right when they need it the most.

The EFL Trust will also be one of a number of charities and business across the UK who will join the government’s Tackling Loneliness Network, leading the charge against Loneliness. The group will explore ways to bring people together to build strong community spirit, with a focus on groups at particular risk of loneliness, and will work to continue these initiatives in the future.

To receive support from the project or to volunteer to help tackle loneliness, contact Emma Potter at emma.potter@pafc.co.uk.

Welcome back!

Plymouth is open and looking forward to welcoming you back for a safe and enjoyable visit. With shops, restaurants, cafés, bars and attractions, our city by the sea is the perfect place to enjoy some socially distanced summer sunshine.

Find out what’s open at shop4plymouth.co.uk Supported by the Reopening High Street fund

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Mother of a Plymouth student, Wendy Dillon from Kidderminster pleaded guilty to two fraud offences and two offences of counterfeiting at Plymouth magistrates. She was fined £130 for each of the fraud counts and ordered to pay £450 costs and a £30 victim surcharge The fraud offences were for making a false representation for gain, in this case a parking permit for her son at a property she knew he did not live in.

The forgery and counterfeiting charges relate to two dates in December 2018 and January 2019 for supplying a false instrument to the Council, i.e. altered tenancy agreements for her son with the aim of getting a parking permit for him.

The court heard that her son was living in a property in Armada Street - a set of student flats which were not entitled to parking permits. Her son, Luke, had already applied unsuccessfully twice, before she tried again on his behalf using an altered address.

The council’s permit team alerted the Council’s Corporate Fraud team after receiving yet another application for a Luke Daniels using the same car registration number, but for an address further along Armada Street. A check revealed the tenant living there was not Luke Daniels.

Residential proof and a tenancy agreement was provided for 12 Armada Street, but on closer inspection, it was clear that the names and address had been altered.

Wendy Dillon got in touch with the council when her son was invited for an interview under caution. She admitted she had submitted the fake applications. She said she had called the landlord to complain as the property had been advertised with parking, and that they had suggested she should apply under a new address in that area.

The magistrates were told that Dillon was mortified by her own behaviour. At the time she had not considered the consequences and had tried to help her son.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport said: “We hope this sends out the strongest message possible: do not try to dupe the system.

“Residents parking zones are brought in because there is already pressure on available road space in those neighbourhoods and developers hoping to build in those areas go in with eyes wide open. They are fully aware that those developments will not get permits. The onus is on any tenant or home owner moving in to check the parking arrangements.”

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10 September 2020

Council release video of new £16 million crematorium Plymouth City Council have released a computer-generated video of what the new crematorium at Merafield Road in Plympton will look like.

The fly-through - which can be viewed at https://youtu.be/SicvSJgEsp0 - gives residents the best idea yet of how the new facility will look, with a sleek and modern, one storey exterior.

Inside there are light and open ceremony spaces featuring large windows, in keeping with the desire to provide a modern quality facility.

The new facility will be set in 17 acres of countryside on the eastern edge of the city, off Merafield Road near the Stag Lodge entrance to Saltram Park.

The designs were produced by local architects Stride Treglown and Aecom and a construction partner is set to be announced in the coming months. It is hoped that building will begin by the end of the year.

The video is released as an extra £4 million was added to the project, following an executive decision by Council leader Tudor Evans.

The added investment brings the total project costs to around £16 million and reflects the final building specifications and additional service fees associated with acquiring the land.

It also ensures that a café, located on the site but away from the main crematorium building, is included in the project. The café will be open all day to serve refreshments for people attending funerals and also for people visiting the site to pay their respects. There will also be a facility that families can hire for wakes.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Community Safety and Customer Focus, said: “I’m really excited by the plans and the new fly-through video, which really brings the project to life.

“This extra investment means new facility will be one of the very best in the south west and I can’t wait to see work begin.”

When the new crematorium is built, existing cemeteries at Efford and Weston Mill will continue to be active for burial and memorials with the chapels available for bookings.

More information on plans for the new crematorium can be found at www. plymouth.gov.uk/futurecrem

Two views of the new building taken from the video released by Plymouth City Council

10 September 2020

@PlymChronicle

Pride of Plympton as Ben receives top award Plympton Academy student Ben Brockman is this year’s winner of the prestigious Ted Osmond Award - which is handed out annually by Plympton Rotary to a deserving young person who has made a significant contribution to their community.

Seventeen-year old Ben was nominated by Sarah Mayne who felt he warranted recognition for his tireless work fundraising for Cancer Research UK, a charity very close to his and his family’s heart.

Sarah said: “Ben’s dad is the co-chairman of Cancer Research UK Relay for Life Plymouth, receiving a national award for his efforts. Ben has spoken to me about how much he looks up to his dad and wishes to follow in his footsteps, but in my opinion Ben equally deserves recognition for all of the money he has raised for the charity”.

Ben carries out various activities for the charity. Not only does he raise awareness, he also dedicates a lot of his time to fundraise; he often sells Cancer Research memorabilia and does bucket collections to name just a few of his fundraising activities.

He also frequently attends committee meetings with his dad, where he plays a key role in organising the annual Relay for Life which normally takes place at Torbridge High School.

Ben takes part with his family each year as part of the ‘Bob’s Crusaders’ team which is in honour of a member of their family who sadly lost their battle with cancer. The local fundraising throughout the year for Cancer Research UK culminates at ‘Relay for Life’, where the final total for each team is revealed.

Every year ‘Bob’s Crusader’s’ has been the team to raise the highest amount of money for the charity. Ben personally does a lot of the relay laps himself, even overnight, in an attempt to raise as

Pictured from left to right: Ben Brockman, Sarah Mayne and Plympton Rotary President Darren Hands

much money as he can. Since the establishment of ‘Relay for Life’ several years ago, part organised by Ben, roughly £300,000 has been raised for Cancer Research UK. Ben has also received certificates from Cancer Research UK themselves for being a “Young fundraiser of the month” and outshining his peers in terms of amount raised per month – sometimes even achieving this certificate for several consecutive months in a row.

Sarah went on to say: “Ben has also been the inspiration for other young people to raise money for Cancer Research, including his girlfriend Tiegan, who now joins him for fundraisers and attended ‘Relay for Life’ with his family last year.”

Ben said: “Thank you Sarah for nominating me.

It was such a great surprise - I honestly wasn’t expecting it! When I’m doing anything for Cancer Research UK, I know that it is for a great cause and that it helps so many people that are struggling with it, but it is also always great fun and so I always enjoy doing it and I want to continue doing it for as long as I possibly can.”

Plympton Rotary President Darren Hands said: “I am delighted to present this award to Ben – a very worthy winner and one which Ted Osmond, the former member of Plympton Rotary who this award is named in honour of, would surely be proud of. It was also great to see Ben being nominated by one of his peers. They are both a credit to the Plympton community.”

(Story courtesy of www.plymptonpodcast.org.uk)

Donations boost for Plympton Foodbank Local people living in food poverty will continue to receive fresh food from the Plympton Team Ministry Foodbank, thanks to two recent grants, one of £1,500 from Devonshire Freemasons and another of £1,000 from the Rotary Club of Plympton.

Activity at the Foodbank has grown rapidly since opening in early April. The volunteer group at Plympton Team Ministry have supplied sufficient food for well over 100 people since the lockdown began, many of them children, and in some cases repeating food support on a monthly basis – thus providing the only food they have for some weeks until Government support could respond to their needs.

Among those who have already or could in the future benefit are the most vulnerable in the local Plympton community such as: Families where both earners have recently lost their jobs due to COVID-19; individuals with learning difficulties who have had to move from assisted residential care to individual living; cancer patients who have, for whatever reason, fallen through the cracks and had little access to food while shielding; young families in emergency housing; families who could not pay the rent or their utility bill due to loss of their job through COVID-19; people, especially the elderly and others, who have had difficulty in navigating through online services to access food deliveries; some with mental health issues finding difficulty in coping with the impact of COVID-19; A few who are suffering from domestic abuse and others who have no access to public funds due to being newly self-employed at the start of COVID. The Plympton Team Ministry Foodbank is currently receiving referrals from schools, charities such as Barnados, Homestart, church ministers and doctor’s surgeries.

Phil Smith Churchwarden and foodbank co-ordinator at the Plympton Foodbank said, “We are incredibly grateful to Devonshire

Photo shows Revd Robert Harris (Team Rector for Plympton Team Ministry), Churchwarden Philip Smith, Plympton Rotary President Darren Hands and two of the many volunteers at the Plympton Foodbank

Freemasons and Plympton Rotary for their generous donations to help us maintain the supply of food to those in need and also build up the stock of food in readiness for an expected increase in unemployment. We feel much more confident now that the sudden increase in need expected in the next two months can be met quickly by purchasing food if we cannot obtain sufficient donations to respond effectively.

“The feedback we are receiving from our supported individuals and families is incredible and they are so grateful that they can now access food in their own community, rather than having to travel with difficulty to central Plymouth to access food for their families.”

The grant from Devonshire Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.

In response to the extraordinary need created by the coronavirus pandemic, Freemasonry is providing special funding of £2.75 million for projects helping those who are particularly affected by the virus.

This extra money comes on top of the estimated £45 million given to charity every

year by Freemasons.

Rotary President Darren Hands said: “The club is delighted to have been able to help our community in these uncertain times.

Although stocks are fairly high at the present time, this can change very quickly and we know this contribution will make a huge difference. Financial contributions such as the one we have made will enable the Foodbank to purchase those items most at need over the coming weeks”.

While the Plympton Foodbank has healthy stocks of food currently they remain concerned that, during the summer, unemployment will rise suddenly and they want to help immediately to reduce the impact of loss of income, or increased costs of food for children on families and individuals - old or young.

Please contact the foodbank if you are in need of some support by e-mail at Foodbank. plymptonteamministry@gmail.com or phoning 07795026939.

You can also be referred by Job Centres as well as the people and organisations mentioned above if needing immediate food support.

(Story courtesy of www.plymptonpodcast. org.uk)

Blockbuster shows coming to Plymouth

September 2020 11 @PlymChronicle

Woman fined for subletting property A woman who sublet her Plymouth Community Homes property for around seven years has been ordered to pay £580 by Plymouth magistrates.

Theatre Royal Plymouth have announced dates for five blockbuster shows in 2021.

First up is Hairspray the smash hit musical comedy which will be performed from April 5 to April 10 2021. Another musical comedy Waitress will be at the Theatre Royal from July 5 to 10, followed by Chicago from August 9 to 14.

The epic stage thriller The Da Vinci Code comes to Plymouth from

Peace of mind at uncertain times

August 30 to September 4 followed by Strictly Ballroom the Musical from September 27 to October 2 2021.

The latest announcement follows the news that Grease the Musical will be staged from January 22 to January 30.

Tickets for Grease are available now, while tickets for the five new shows will go on sale on August 25 on the Theatre Royal website www. theatreroyal.com

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Marita Head of Lower Trevivian, St Clether, Launceston, pleaded guilty to knowingly subletting a social housing property in Swinburne Gardens, Honicknowle between January 2013 and October 2018. She was fined £100 and ordered to pay £450 costs and £50 victim surcharge.

The court heard the 60-year-old had been a tenant at the house since 2005 with the most recent tenancy agreement with Plymouth Community Homes signed in 2011.

She had moved in with her partner in Cornwall sometime in 2011/12 and a couple of weeks after leaving, she let her friend move into the property as he had nowhere else to stay.

She gave him the rent payment card for the property and he paid the rent from that point.

Plymouth Community Homes had no indication from Head that she was not living in the house.

She continued to pay her Council Tax by Direct Debit.

By way of explanation, she said that she had kept the property originally in case the relationship in Cornwall did not work, after this she felt like she could not ask her friend to leave the property.

She argued she did not realise that she could not sub-let the property, and hadn’t really thought about it. Sentencing her, the magistrates took into account her early guilty plea, previous good character and the fact that she made no profit.

Cabinet Member for Housing and Cooperative Development, Councillor Chris Penberthy said: “That house could have gone to a family in need. Social housing is for those who need it and there is a huge waiting list of people who sometimes have to wait years.

To glibly give a property to a friend like this beggars belief. It is beyond thoughtless.”

COVID-19 compliance course for businesses Livewell South West’s training academy is offering several courses at reduced cost to help businesses deal with the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.

The training department has teamed up with another agency which is HSE approved to develop a course primarily around COVID-19 compliance.

Many businesses and organisations are taking part in the course, which provides accreditation in the workplace to show that they had a COVID compliance officer.

The course, which normally costs £200 per person, has been reduced to £59, although places are filling fast. The course takes less than two hours to complete.

Julie Turner, who works for the Livewell Independence Centre at Mount Gould Hospital said: “The checklist and risk assessments alone are worth more than the £59 but at the end the certificate is a fantastic way of showcasing the lengths a business has gone to and the confidence it will give its customers in combatting the COVID pandemic.”

More details about the course and how to book can be found at www.livewellswacademy. co.uk/leadership_articles/10/covid19_ compliance_officer_course The Livewell Academy also offers many other courses such as first aid, basic life support, mental health and safeguarding. It can also offer bespoke courses to suit a particular business need.

12 September 2020

12 September 2020

@PlymChronicle

September opening for Plymouth’s £42 million cultural attraction The Box - Plymouth’s £42 million cultural attraction - will open to the public in September.

The original opening date in May was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but The Box will now open on Friday September 25, 26 and 27 with a special preview weekend for Plymouth residents who took part in a ballot earlier this year. It will then be open to the public from Tuesday September 29. Opening hours will be 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday.

The Box is the largest multi-disciplinary arts and heritage space to open in the UK in 2020. As a key element of Plymouth’s ‘Resurgam’ programme, its launch now symbolises Plymouth’s recovery and sets the direction for positive change in the local economy and life of the city as it moves through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originally three separate buildings, The Box’s ground-breaking design has completely transformed, extended and combined Plymouth’s former City Museum and Art Gallery, Central Library building and St Luke’s Church to create a cutting-edge, interactive cultural centre with 13 new galleries and exhibition spaces, a striking elevated archive, learning and research facilities and a brand new public square. In preparation for opening, The Box has put a number of safety and social distancing measures in place to help visitors feel as comfortable as possible.

These include: · Free admission by advance ticket only, with an easy to follow booking system at www. theboxplymouth.com (tickets can be booked from September 10) · Reduced capacity and clearly marked one way systems in key areas of circulation · Increased checks by staff and volunteers · Hand sanitising facilities and enhanced cleaning

The stunning collection of ships’ figureheads will be one of the big attractions at The Box

· A temporary reduction in on site events alongside an enhanced digital offer In line with government guidance, the wearing of face coverings will be encouraged for all visitors over 11 years old and mandatory in the retail area.

Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “This is such an exciting moment for the city and it’s fantastic to finally be able to announce these dates. The Box is a vital part of our recovery programme and it feels like it’s been a long time coming now. Staff have worked so hard over the last few months to maintain momentum and keep the public engaged with the project.

“They’ve also put in a huge effort to respond

to the current government guidelines to ensure that everyone who visits will have a safe and enjoyable experience. I hope everyone is as proud and excited as I am and can’t wait for the doors to open. In our post-lockdown world The Box is going to be a place where people can reconnect with each other, Plymouth’s history and its future.”

The Box will open with three major exhibitions.

Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy, the largest commemorative Mayflower exhibition in history, will include over 300 objects and has been cocurated with the Wampanoag Native American Advisory Committee.

Making It: An international contemporary art exhibition featuring newly commissioned works by Antony Gormley, Portuguese artist Leonor Antunes and Brazilian artist Alexandre da Cunha.

Kehinde Wiley: Ship of Fools has been curated in partnership with The Arts Institute at the University of Plymouth and Royal Museums Greenwich, and will present a three-channel film work by American artist Kehinde Wiley in The Levinsky Gallery.

Nine permanent galleries will also showcase The Box’s incredible collections and will include 14 monumental ships’ figureheads, thousands of natural history specimens, a full-size woolly mammoth replica, paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture and ceramics from the city’s art collections, objects, film and photography from its media collections and documents, maps and plans from its archives.

Admission will be free to all exhibitions and galleries apart from the ‘Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy’ exhibition. This will be free for Plymouth residents and under 18s with a small £5 charge for non-Plymouth residents who are over 18.

Find out more about The Box at www. theboxplymouth.com

£700,000 boost for Plymouth schools Several schools in Plymouth are to benefit from a funding programme announced by the Government.

The Plymouth schools and others in South West Devon have been allocated a share of the £560 million investment to repair and upgrade school buildings as part of a 10-year programme of work.

A total of more than £717,000 is being made available to local schools. They include Home Primary Academy which will receive just under

£125,000, Victoria Road Primary with over £62,500 and Devonport High School for Boys and Mount Wise Community Primary School which will receive a combined total of just under £530,000.

Welcoming the announcement Cllr Nick Kelly, the Conservative Group leader on Plymouth City Council, said: “Coronavirus has taken a toll on us all, not least our children, who have been kept from their friends, their teachers and their schools.

“As we exit lockdown we must focus on getting children back to school - and ensure that schools have the facilities and classrooms they need to support the high-quality education our children deserve.

“This funding will help ensure all children have modern environments which will promote the very best possible schools and education, enabling them to gain all the knowledge and skills they need for success.”

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Mayflower 400 exhibition will highlight cultural connections with the Wampanoag Native Americans A national touring exhibition which forms part of the Mayflower 400 commemorations is now scheduled to come to Plymouth in 2021.

Originally scheduled for this year, the exhibition - Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America - will open at The Box on May 15 2021.

Prior to arriving in Plymouth the exhibition will visit SeaCity in Southampton and the Guildhall Art Gallery in London.

The exhibition is presented by The Box, in partnership with Wampanoag cultural advisors SmokeSygnals, and features the first artistic commission from the UK to acknowledge its cultural connection with the Wampanoag Native American nation - a newly crafted wampum belt.

It is hoped that the touring exhibition may help to uncover a lost Native American treasure - the Metacom belt which was lost as a spoil of way in 1676.

Told by Wampanoag voices throughout, Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America is the story of Wampanoag Native America. The Wampanoag people have lived in north eastern America for 12,000 years.

Their nation extended beyond Boston, into Central Massachusetts and south to Rhode Island. The Mayflower passengers arrived there in 1620. Yet for almost 400 years, the impact of the Mayflower’s arrival on the Wampanoag Nation has been widely marginalised in the telling of Mayflower history.

Wampum belts are a tapestry of art and tribal history. Made from the purple and white shells of the whelk and quahog, wampum beads embody the Wampanoag connection to the sea and to life itself. Each shell bead is imbued with memory and meaning by the maker.

Wampum belts are of cultural, sacred and symbolic significance to the Wampanoag nation.

Through wampum belts, the Wampanoag share stories of their communities and culture. The newly crafted wampum belt has been created by more than 100 artisans from the Wampanoag nation and consists of 5,000 handcrafted beads.

It will tour with historic wampum belts from the British Museum collection. On completion of the tour, the new wampum belt will be returned to the Wampanoag Nation.

It is hoped that through this touring exhibition a lost Native American treasure may be uncovered – the wampum belt of the Wampanoag chief Metacom.

It has not been seen since it was sent to England in 1677 following the King Philip’s War, and has been the subject of an intensive international search that began in late 1970 and continues to this day.

The new Wampum belt

September 2020 13

@PlymChronicle

New app offers self-guided walking trails featuring Plymouth’s past A brand new app featuring self-guided walking trails throughout Plymouth is now available to download, giving visitors and locals alike the chance to explore the city through new eyes and discover more about its complex history.

The interactive Plymouth Trails app, which is free to download, includes three new tailored trails: Mayflower Trail: Following a circular route around the Barbican, see the buildings and meet the people that shaped the city in 1620, when the Mayflower ship and its passengers set sail for America City Centre Trail: Discover a different side to the imposing post-war architecture in the city centre and learn more about how the city was rebuilt following the Blitz during World War II Plymouth Hoe Trail: Enjoy a walk along the coast as you delve into Plymouth’s maritime history, taking in key landmarks such as Tinside Lido and Smeaton’s Tower.

By utilising new technologies, the app allows users to overlay video and images onto the landscape in front of them to experience a ‘then and now’ snapshot of the city.

Accompanying children’s activity guides are also available to download to keep younger visitors engaged. From September, school activity packs will be available for teachers to use with groups of children too.

The Mayflower Trail, created as part of the Mayflower 400 commemorations which will now continue into 2021, also boasts a physical presence in the form of bronze monoliths along the route helping to guide visitors and providing more information.

Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, Pete Smith, said: “We’re really proud of the trails and the app, which give people the chance to discover Plymouth’s fascinating

Bronze monolith at the Mayflower Steps

up to

Following the Mayflower trail at the Mayflower Steps

history at their own pace, in their own time.

“Although we’ve had to make changes to our Mayflower 400 commemorative programme, the free app offers everyone a chance to learn all about this significant story while exploring our beautiful city. And as we start to move out of lockdown, the trails offer the perfect opportunity to get out, try something new and enjoy some fresh air with the family.”

Work is ongoing to make sure that the core trails are accessible for everyone, which has been assessed with the help of Plymouth Area Disability Action Network.

A number of improvements have already been made, including adding dropped kerbs, seating and better facilities along the routes.

The new trails were made possible thanks to financial support from Plymouth City Council, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Great Western Railway, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, Mayflower 400 and the General Society of Mayflower Descendants.

Chair of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership,

Nick Buckland, said: “We were delighted to contribute towards the app development as we really believe this will encourage more people to explore Plymouth’s incredible waterfront and the fantastic businesses that are based there.”

The app also hosts partner trails that are free for people to follow. This includes the American Tree Trail from Plymouth Tree Partnership which runs from Drake’s reservoir through the city centre to the Barbican, stopping at trees and sites with an American association.

App users can also follow the Sutton Harbour Heritage Trail, a loop around the historic Harbourside area, or the Waterfront Walkway, Plymouth’s section of the South West Coast Path that will take users on a nine mile walk from the Cremyll Ferry to Jennycliff. Other additional trails will be added to the app in the future. The app can be downloaded now on Android or iOS. The app and core trails are available in French, Spanish and German as well as English.

For a preview of the Mayflower Trail, watch the latest video in the Mayflower Virtual Voyages series on the Mayflower400uk. org website, which also offers an insight into the events coming up around the commemoration.

For more information, see visitplymouth. co.uk/trails.

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DIRECT AIRPORT COACH SERVICE RETURNS TO PLYMOUTH Passengers will be able to travel from Plymouth to Heathrow Airport after National Express added the coach service to its schedules.

The 511 service from Plymouth to Heathrow airport will run once a day each way, seven days a week, via Exteter and Salisbury.

The route has been reintroduced as part of the UK’s largest coach operator’s return to the road after a three month suspension in response to COVID-19.

Chris Hardy, managing director of National Express UK Coach, said: “Our iconic white fleet restarted services in July, running at a reduced frequency with a focus on major towns and cities.

“Overall demand and bookings have been really positive and the level of requests for travel has

meant we can now also add this direct airport service back on the network.”

“We’re working hard to help people enjoy the summer safely and will continue to add new services and increase frequency on existing routes.

“Our significant COVID-secure measures including reduced capacity, temperature screening and additional air conditioning filters, allow customers to travel in confidence. And we’ve also introduced the option to amend the date, time and journey origin and destination free of charge if circumstances change.

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POP+ members have been working hard to support the development of an innovative way of allocating £30,000 worth of new funding. The money will be available to groups and organisations and will be divided equally between two funds: one with a maximum of £250, the other up to £3000. The smaller fund will be a simple web-based process designed for speed while the larger fund will require greater digital input; peer support and collaboration. Applicants will be required to use the digital platforms Open Collective https://opencollective.com/ and Slack https://slack.com/. If this makes you come out in a cold sweat, then fear not, POP+ and Our Plymouth are setting up some ‘tech training’ - put your name down here… bit.ly/poptechtues Keyham and the Great Canine Challenge sure we got food parcels to some ladies who When Helen Lounds had an accident during we know were left without and, since we’ve lockdown and found herself being discharged become aware of their circumstances, we’ve from hospital with her leg in a cast her first been able to help some of them so much more.” concern wasn’t about herself but for her four For many of its residents, the existence of dogs and how they were going to get their daily the Keyham Neighbourhood Watch has proved exercise. She need not have worried: not one invaluable. For Helen, there is no going back; but several knights in shining armour from the “I think during the whole Covid thing, Keyham Neighbourhood Watch stepped forth the community spirit in Keyham has been and came to her rescue; remarkable. I think it’s done wonders for the “When my leg was put in a cast I was community, in a twisted kind of way, and I think absolutely petrified, I had no idea how I was bonds have formed and will remain.” going to cope and the When projects like thought of having to ask Keyham Neighbourhood people to walk my dogs Watch and The Hoe for six weeks made me feel Neighbourhood Watch awful but, you know, people participate in the have been amazing; I’ve Neighbourhood Care had people checking on me Networks, it intensifies the every morning and the dogs scale of action; support and have been walked every engagement for - and within day. One guy, John, came - communities. As Kevin says, around several times at six working together is better in the morning to walk them for everyone; on his way home from a “I really do think that twelve-hour night shift: it’s the neighbourhood care Owen & Matt from Pollenize just lovely that people can do network is something that with some of their native bees that for each other.” we can work with. We don’t Helen’s story is not want to lose the identity we unique. What many people have experienced have, and it’s really positive the things we’ve throughout the pandemic is empathy, managed to do, but with greater investment compassion and a determination to support and collaboration I do believe it’s limitless, the each other. Eighteen months ago, there was amount of good work that can be done.” no ‘formal’ community network in Keyham and then Kevin Sproston, a Royal Navy sailor, living in the area decided something needed Tech Tuesdays to be done about the anti-social behaviour in ugh al Let our digit masters guide you thro the area. When Kevin launched the Keyham Open Collective; Slack; Zoom; Neighbourhood Watch on social media he had Microsoft Teams & other platforms no idea if people were going to be interested: n how to navigate the digital highway Lear “I put it on Facebook,” says Kevin, “and through our Play & Learn sessions about five people came along to the first ng Tuesday the 1st September Starti meeting. Now we’ve got about 12 amazing Every fortnight, between 1 & 2pm active volunteers and more than two thousand Join us on our digital crusade online members.” https://bit.ly/poptechtues And when lockdown came, the KNW sprang into action; “Within three days of lockdown we had a community phone-line; leaflets going into every house and we were one of the first communities to get a food delivery project off the ground.”

Since then the KNW has packed and delivered about 200 food hampers and donated about £2500 to the Devon & Cornwall Food Association (with thanks to the North Yard Community Trust, the Co-op and Great Western Power) to help with their costs. Volunteers have collected shopping, medicines, walked dogs and been there for those residents most-inneed including victims of domestic abuse; “Lockdown has created a perfect situation,” says Kevin, “with a controlling partner being able to keep someone indoors. We made

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Keeping afloat: how POP+ has helped businesses cast adrift Some of the city’s charitable organisations may owe their survival, post the pandemic, to the combined efforts of POP+ and the Plymouth Social Enterprise Network. Throughout the lockdown POP+ and PSEN have been regularly meeting with the Plymouth City Council’s economic development team to highlight the plight of charities and social enterprises across the city unable to access emergency business funding. Now, as a result of their intervention, more than 350 charities; social enterprises; small and micro businesses have been given money to enable them to weather the economic storm brought about by Covid-19.

It is the role of the Plymouth Octopus Project (POP+) to support the many and varied organisations that make up the city’s voluntary and community sector. A survey carried out

by POP+ just two weeks into lockdown, and a follow-up survey in June, identified the precarious position of many of its members, such as The Island Trust, which provides sailing courses from Plymouth for disadvantaged young people. The charity was anticipating one of its busiest years in its forty-seven-year history: with the Mayflower commemorations on the horizon it was to sail across 2020 with nearly 1000 people on board but suddenly all were grounded leaving the charity, as Emma Pate explains, without an income; “If we can’t sail, there’s no money.”

Unlike ‘conventional’ businesses eligible for the government’s Small Business Rate Relief, many of POP’s members found themselves facing great uncertainty with no money coming in and unable to qualify for emergency funding. Sharing their plight with the council, POP+ helped to direct critical funding through the ‘Discretionary Business Grant’ devised to support organisations with a significant fall in income; fixed property costs (including boat-based businesses) and/or rental costs on premises. Unlike other grants – crucially - it enabled the people assessing and awarding the funding to consider the needs and circumstances of each applicant, such as The Island Trust, which heard about the grant during one of POP’s on-line support sessions. It has since received £10,000 to pay rent, bills and berthing rates for its three sailing boats until September.

“We are really grateful for the work of POP+ and PSEN,” says Emma, “raising awareness of organisations like ours who were falling through the net of the government’s emergency funding schemes. While we are still fighting for our survival and looking for other support, this will help see us through the summer.”

For many organisations the grant has

bought them time.

Owen Finnie, from the social enterprise Pollenize, which has twelve bee colonies in five sites across Plymouth, says it’s thanks to POP+ that they even knew about it; “The only information we had about grants came from POP,” says Owen who along with Matt Elmes runs Pollenize, without any income.

“Without this funding we might have had to put a temporary stop on our work at what has been a really pivotal time for us. Instead, we’ve been able to tick along, pay our rent, look after the bees and continue our efforts to build a sustainable business.”

More than £2.25m has now been awarded through the discretionary business grant in Plymouth helping to ensure that the city’s many charities, social enterprises and organisations run by volunteers endure to help others. Furthermore, the efforts of POP+, PSEN and the city council has protected about 1,700 jobs and with them, their livelihoods.

Ben Foulsham

September 2020 15

@PlymChronicle

Lecturer Bridgette helps put Coxside on the map Plymouth College of Art lecturer Bridgette Ashton, is working with Take a Part and The Box to creatively map Coxside and its residents’ histories in a project called ‘Coxside Cartographies’.

Lecturer Bridgette Ashton

Pairing up with artist Joanna Brinton, Bridgette’s work engages with The Box’s Mayflower 400 exhibition and its themes of identity, diversity and migration, as well as some of its collections.

‘Coxside Cartographies’ encourages members of the public and residents of Plymouth’s East End to engage in activities and initiatives that involve mapping their local area.

Participants can download a PDF map from the project’s blog or The Box’s website and use it to plot routes and explore memories and stories of the area. Contributors can then upload their maps onto Instagram, using the hashtag #MappingHistories or email them to hello@effordtakeapart.org.

‘Coxside Cartographies’ is made up of three stages: Gathering, Making and Sharing, taking ‘mapping’ to be the interrelationships of people, objects, experiences and time.

The information gathered as well as the anecdotes, observations and objects that are created will be translated into a publication and map that can be accessed and used in Coxside, as well as remotely, to offer a multi-layered view of

the place and people.

Third-year BA (Hons) Illustration student Jess Holloway (pictured) was one of Bridgette’s students who took part in the project. Based near Coxside, Jess felt filling in a map would be valuable to the project and wanted to contribute.

Jess said: “Bridgette did a call out to all the illustration students, asking if we could get involved in mapping Coxside. I live close to the area, although I had to check on a map of Plymouth as I wasn’t quite sure exactly where Coxside was at first!

“I found out a lot about the local wildlife. I noted where the cormorants sat - on an upturned boat with ‘Harbour Authority’ written down the side of it.

There are a variety of fish swimming in the water and swans, Canadian geese and ducks that sit on it. I walked around a corner where on three occasions I came across different dead birds. I even saw a wharf roach, which I looked up when I got home. It looks a bit like a giant woodlouse!

“The project gave me a reason to explore and to cut down different paths, see what was there and where they intertwined. I found myself really appreciating the area. I’ve been longing

to visit Dartmoor since lockdown began and have been missing the wildlife out on the moors. The project made me realise Coxside was brimming with life, full of the encounters and experiences I was longing for. It’s made me realise how much I should appreciate the here and now, and how beauty can be found in any corner.”

Bridgette said: “As artists with a relationship to Plymouth, but living outside of it, myself and Joanna Brinton wanted to find a way to learn more about Coxside’s past and present and its connections to the wider world through migration, work and trade.”

Take A Part uses art as a catalyst to address social justice issues. Since its inception, Take A Part has grown to support communities throughout Plymouth, with a purpose to engage, educate and inform new audiences in contemporary arts while developing policy and setting agendas for neighbourhood regeneration initiatives, contributing directly to the social infrastructure of the city.

The Box is Plymouth’s new £46 million cultural destination and will be the biggest cultural and heritage centre in the South West and will be reopening to the general public on September 29.

Plymouth University in ‘telerehabilitation’ project in wake of COVID A team from the University of Plymouth has received funding from the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) to urgently devise guidance on remotely assessing and treating patients who require phyical therapy and other forms of rehabilitation, as a result of COVID-19 and other conditions.

As a result of the pandemic there has been a huge drop in face-to-face appointments and a significant increase in patients requiring rehabilitation.

‘Telerehabilitation’ is part of the move across the health service to deliver more services remotely.

Many patients, particularly those shielding because of health vulnerabilities, have had no face-to-face input over the whole of the COVID-19 period, and the need for rehabilitation has also increased as those recovering from the disease begin their journeys back to health.

The current project, led by the University of Plymouth and funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), is seeking to address these issues through the creation of a toolkit and training package for current and future clinicians. It is led by Professor of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Jenny Freeman with collaborators from the University’s Faculty of Health, the University of Warwick, and partners in NHS Trusts and the Social Care sector across the region.

Professor Freeman said: “Imagine your elderly mother has a fall. Without a face-to-face appointment, how do you assess things like her quality of movement and balance? There may be safety concerns, and other factors such as the need for a good quality internet connection.

“Assessment is absolutely key to being able to deliver a targeted intervention – if you don’t have a clear idea about people’s baseline abilities or how they are changing then it’s difficult to effectively plan and progress someone’s treatment. This research captures people recovering from the coronavirus, but also the much greater number of people with other, pre-existing conditions who have not been receiving treatment for an extended period of time.”

Professor Freeman added: “Rehabilitation is crucial for improving people’s quality of life and if there is one positive to come out of this situation, it is that people are now recognising this fact.”

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16 September 2020

First tenant for second phase of Oceansgate The first tenant for the second phase of Plymouth City Council’s Oceansgate development in Devonport, which is on course to be completed in December, has been announced.

ESL Group is moving its Space and Defence Solutions (SDS) division to a new industrial unit at the city’s marine Enterprise Zone. Other divisions of the ESL Group will remain in their headquarters at Plymouth Science Park.

Oceansgate has transformed disused Ministry of Defence land into a thriving hub for marine and maritime businesses.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “We’re delighted to welcome our first tenant to phase 2 of Oceansgate. We’re really proud of the development – it plays a key role in developing Plymouth’s status as the leading location for marine and maritime industries in the UK. “It’s been an extraordinarily difficult year with challenges on a scale we have never seen before and we’re now beginning to implement our economic recovery plan, Resurgam. Oceansgate has an important role to play in this, creating jobs, attracting new businesses to our city and offering those that are already based here the opportunity to expand in an environment that has been designed with their needs in mind.”

Phase 2 of Oceansgate includes a new three storey office building and 15 light industrial units, adding to the mix of offices and industrial units built during the first phase.

The £7.6 million project has been funded by the Council and a £2.25 million grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

For details: www.oceansgateplymouth.com.

@PlymChronicle

Council launch wildflower fundraiser Plymouth City Council is joining a new national initiative which helps to fundraise for parks and green spaces.

The campaign, called ‘What’s that worth to you?’, forms part of the Future Park Accelerator project which the council, along with ten other authorities, joined in 2019.

In Plymouth, the project will focus on creating more of the ever-popular wildflower meadows that have been so widely praised this year.

Residents who particularly enjoyed seeing them and the nature that they brought to urban areas will now have the chance to help fund even more.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and the Environment, said “Our parks and open spaces have really taken care of us during lockdown and have been a lifeline to lots of our community as part of their daily exercise.

“It’s now our opportunity to take care of our parks by donating to our fundraising appeal. Money raised will be used for to provide more wildflower planting, for bee, butterfly and bug hotels, and for our improved good health.

“This isn’t compulsory. It’s simply a chance for people who enjoy what we do with wildflower meadows to help expand and grow our plans in the future.”

The council signed up to Future Parks to make the city’s parks sustainable and to manage them better and in cooperation with the community. Fundraising for specific projects like wildflowers is a part of that.

Councillor Dann added: “Staying inside during Covid-19 lockdown was tough, especially for the one in 11 Plymouth households who don’t have access to a garden. Spending time outdoors in some

of our 100 or more parks and open spaces was a lifeline, and many families discovered previously unknown places and new favourite walks.

“We were given the time to look, listen and appreciate our surroundings. We heard birdsong as never before and we are now seeing wilder parks with increased wildlife, thanks to the reduced mowing that took place and the increase in wildflower numbers and, in turn, the number and variety of bees, butterflies and moths.

“If you liked this, you want to see more of

it, and you’ve got a couple of spare pennies then help us fund it in the future.”

Donations will be ring-fenced to fund the creation and maintenance of new wildflower areas across the city and the council’s Green Estate team have already begun mapping potential new sites of wildflower areas.

To donate to the appeal log onto www.plymouth.gov.uk/ parksnatureandgreenspaces/ loveplymouthparks/donateplymouthparks andgreenspaces, read the information and follow the instructions.

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New skills service launched Plymouth City Council has launched a new free skills service to help young people and workers facing redundancy.

The virtual one-stop-shop service is part of a citywide partnership called Skills Launchpad Plymouth, which was formally launched on August 12 - 24 hours ahead of the crucial exam results announcements.

The aim of the service is to help local people stay informed to equip themselves with the skills and confidence they need to secure employment.

The intention is to help local people to the build the skills that local employers need both today and in the future to fill jobs.

Councillor Jon Taylor, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Transformation said: “Our Skills Launchpad is a one-stop-shop for all who are considering their next move. It’s not just their futures we have been thinking about.

“We know that for many people high levels of anxiety and stress has really taken their toll in recent months. That’s why we also really keen to provide support for mental health too.

“Our Skills Launchpad is a virtual, safe space where young people can go to receive advice and support that is right for them.

“It shows the great opportunities available in the city, links young people to advisers and advice, helps

Church leaders reflect on racism and injustice The killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis in May sparked protests across the globe and led to a growing awareness of underlying racism in various parts of society.

you find mental health support if necessary and brings together impartial careers advice with job and apprenticeship offers along with better understanding of further study and training options.

“It may be that the right job requires skills that young people don’t yet have so a key part of the hub is making sure that the training and qualifications needed are clearly visible and can be accessed.

APPEAL TO FIND WITNESS WHO INTERVENED AFTER RACIAL ABUSE

Police investigating an alleged racially-aggravated public order offence in Plymstock are appealing for a witness said to have intervened in the incident to come forward.

It happened in the Pizza King takeaway, in Radford Park Road, at around 9.30pm on May 29.The owner of the eatery has reported being subjected to racist abuse after asking a customer not to enter the premises due to one-in, one-out Covid-19 restrictions.

It is believed an unknown male, who was present inside the takeaway, challenged the suspect.

Police are keen to identify and speak with this person.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101, or email 101@dc.police.uk, quoting crime reference CR/042863/20. Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

“Focused specifically on Plymouth, this has been a fantastic partnership effort with all partners bringing everything together for the first time to support the schools, the employers and the people in and around Plymouth as we deal with the economic impact of COVID-19.”

Skills Launchpad Plymouth will be continuously developed as the go-to place for local skills support, providing orientation and up to date real-time labour market intelligence so that local people can stay informed about the real employment opportunities today and in the future.

The service will also offer comprehensive impartial information, advice and guidance, in order to match opportunities to pathways into education, training, apprenticeships, employment, work experience, volunteering and selfemployment.

For more information visit www. skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk

It has led many to consider their own opinions and prompted people to desire change for good.

This was the motivation for a recent gathering of Christian church leaders at the Peace Garden on Plymouth Hoe. Church leaders and others from a wide variety of denominations and ethnicities gathered together for a service to reflect on the wrongs of the past, consider the injustices of the present and look to a different more equitable future.

The event was organised by Churches Together in Plymouth with the aim of publicly acknowledging the racism experienced by black people and to confess wrongdoings of previous and present generations in this regard.

Subjects such as the slave trade and its wide reaching impacts were raised and prayers for forgiveness were shared in an event conducted in a spirit of unity and hope.

Chris Clewer, chairman of Churches Together in Plymouth, said of the event: “The more I have looked into the issues raised by Black Lives Matter, the more I have been impacted by their plight. Discovering the true facts of the slave trade and colonialisation - and the injustice and prejudices black people still endure has left me humbled.

“I needed to do anything I could, especially in the context of the city churches, to demonstrate a desire for honouring and recognising that we are all equal before God.”

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COMMUNITY

18 September 2020

@PlymChronicle

JOB SHOP ‘Spirit of Hope’ for Plymouth families Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop

Pictured from left to right: Steve Whiteway, Tors Froud (project manager for Making Waves Together project) and the Dougouno family with Fatima proudly sitting in ‘Spirit of Hope’

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: 01752 563492 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.

The team at the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre received a call from kayak storage member and local charity champion Steve Whiteway, about a story that he had seen about a dad who had learnt to swim so he could enjoy water based activities with his daughter.

Kandas Dougouno learnt to swim during the winter through the Sport England funded pilot project, Making Waves Together, so that he could join his daughter, Fatima, on the water at sessions held at the Mount Batten Centre.

Steve was so touched by the story that he decided to donate his own kayak to Kandas and Fatima so that they could continue to enjoy many hours kayaking together in Plymouth Sound.

On receiving the generous donation, Kandas, who volunteers for Plymouth Hope, a charity which aims to support social inclusion by supporting people who may otherwise have become socially excluded, asked Steve if he would be happy for the kayak to be widely accepted on behalf of the charity to enable others to enjoy it and in doing so name the kayak ‘Spirit of Hope’.

Fatima enjoying ‘Spirit of Hope’

Steve said: “I’m delighted to be able to donate my kayak to Kandas, Fatima and the wider community at Plymouth Hope. I’m glad that they will be able to enjoy it and explore our beautiful Plymouth Sound with

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@PlymChronicle

Amanda sweeps into Plymouth As the impact of social-distancing and lockdown threatens the viability of many local businesses, an established Devon cleaning company - whose inspirational owner started from nothing - has bucked the trend by taking over a family-run cleaning business in Plymouth and taking on more staff.

Entrepreneur Amanda Barnes, who runs Devon Cleaning South Hams and its sister company Barnes The Cleaners, has recently taken ownership of PlymClean in Plymouth.

The take-over safeguards the employment of eight existing workers at PlymClean - three of whom remain on furlough because of their personal circumstances - and has resulted in the recruitment of three extra members of staff, and potentially a fourth.

Amanda said: “My ambition is to take PlymClean to the next stage in the company’s development.

Currently, it provides domestic services, but I’m looking to use my experience and contacts to expand the company into the commercial and industrial sectors. With PlymClean joining the fold this is an exciting time for my group of local cleaning companies. In contrast to the general economic decline caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, we are on the up!”

Former directors Gail and Stuart May, who have now both moved onto running a new property inspections and compliance company in the lettings industry said: “We started PlymClean from scratch six years ago. PlymClean was our baby, and we are very proud of what we have achieved - developing the brand, building an experienced team and a great relationship with our customers.

“During lockdown, we decided it was time for us to focus more on our other business which was still thriving during this difficult period, and accepted Amanda’s offer to take over at Plymclean. With

September 2020 19

Payphones under threat of removal Nine public payphones, three of which are in Plympton, are at threat of being removed due to lack of use.

Amanda Barnes pictured with former PlymClean directors Gail and Stuart May

Amanda’s impressive network of contacts, we look forward to seeing the business grow and thrive.”

Amanda Barnes is an accomplished self-starter who has grown her Devon cleaning empire from nothing. She had a tough upbringing after being abandoned by both parents in her childhood. Left home alone with her brother from the age of 12, she stopped going to school and it was more than two years before anyone found out that no one was caring for her.

Amanda was taken in by a family until she was 16.

Determined to make something of herself, she gained invaluable experience of running a household - as an au-pair in Luxembourg, and as a PA/nanny in charge of a team of domestic staff in London.

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After ten years in the capital, she spotted an opportunity to provide cleaning and management services in Devon to customers with high-end holiday homes here, and also to the local domestic and holiday-let market. She said: “I only usually tell my hard-done-by story to do the odd member of staff when they look at me with my nice handbag and think I’ve had it all handed to me on a plate.”

Amanda founded Devon Cleaning South Hams in 2004. The company provides a high-quality cleaning service throughout the district to more than 350 domestic and commercial customers, including many premier holiday-let properties. Sister company Barnes the Cleaners, based in Totnes, is a domestic and commercial laundry and dry-cleaning business.

The one in Linketty Lane just up from the Dudley Road junction is proposed for removal as are the ones at the Strode Road/Newnham Road junction and at the junction of Glen Road with Bellingham Crescent.

Others across Plymouth earmarked for removal are: Jephson Road, Plymouth, PL4 9ES; Forecourt of Plymouth Coop, Cecil Avenue, Plymouth, PL4 8SF; Crownhill Road, Plymouth, PL6 5AG; Little Dock Lane, Plymouth, PL5 2NA; Recreation Road, Plymouth, PL2 3NA; Henderson Place, Plymouth, PL2 2AB British Telecom (BT) is consulting local communities and Plymouth City Council has been asking for comments on the proposals to remove the nine payphones within the city.

BT have placed notices in the relevant payphone kiosks and the consultation period closed on August 10. The City Council will now make an initial decision on whether to object to the removal of any of the payphones and publish this for consultation for a further 30 days.

The Council must then send its final decision to BT by September 28. (Story courtesy of www.plymptonpod cast.org. uk)

20 September 2020

20 September 2020

@PlymChronicle

Navigating through the storms of life...

THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience

One of the great purposes of the Christian community down the centuries has been to provide spiritual and practical support for those who, on occasion, need a listening ear or helping hand travelling through the journey of life.

This attitude and behaviour have helped establish within the heart and soul of the nation the understanding of ‘loving your neighbour as you love yourself’ and defines us as a caring society.

All of us have had to navigate a new normal of reality within this pandemic and one of the great challenges has, and possibly will be, the invisible consequences to our mental health and issues of hope and wellbeing.

The stresses and strains we are all experiencing in these difficult times can put serious pressure on our core values, behaviours, attitudes and even our world view.

A brief look at history and these tumultuous events such as war and health pandemics have been part of the human condition across the globe for centuries, but in today’s world we all live in a global village accessed through digital

communication and the internet.

A dockside explosion in Beirut Chris Cole brings the tragedy to our screens within minutes through our news feeds. For many of us, during lockdown, television and online platforms have been a daily source of information and a lot of it has been very concerning and obviously quite distressing News outlets, in the main, are there primarily for the sensational or out of the ordinary stories and coverage of events and stories which are not typical of everyday life where you and I do life in the main.

The sensational and negative news often outweighs the positive stories. The challenge for us all today, however, regarding the times we live in is that we have so much access and

coverage to news information it can seem to make this bad news the normal everyday event.

Personally, as somebody who has worked in media most of my adult life, I can find myself succumbing to the negative information that bombards me. If it were not for my Christian faith and world view, I could easily succumb to the hopelessness of life.

The Bible is a powerfully inspirational book and I have found over time that it has a very positive supernatural ability to empower and liberate the reader deep within the heart and soul.

One of the great books in the Old Testament is the book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 verse 1 -8.

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, a time to die.

A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted.

A time to kill, and a time to heal.

A time to break down, and a time to build up.

A time to weep, and a time to laugh.

A time to mourn, and a time to dance.

A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together.

A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing.

A time to get, and a time to lose.

A time to keep, and a time to cast away.

A time to rend, and a time to sew.

A time to keep silence, and a time to speak.

A time to love, and a time to hate.

A time of war, and a time of peace.

I find these wisdom verses are so helpful as I navigate through life and put the good and bad times in perspective and balance.

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

Two recent local building projects up for awards Two local building projects have been shortlisted by a panel of expert judges in the 2020 Michelmores Property Awards.

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

The Awards, now in their 18th year, recognise the very best South West property and construction schemes, as well as the teams involved in them.

Bridging the Tamar, the Tamar Bridge Offices and Visitor Centre has been shortlisted for Project of the Year (under £5 million) category.

The development provides a new new state of the art 24/7 control room for managing A38 traffic across the Tamar Bridge and through the Saltash Tunnel. Included within the development is a new customer service centre, reception, engineering offices and conference room. The new facility is a landmark building surrounded by much improved landscaped grounds.

Hareston Farm Barns near Yealmpton has been shortlisted for Residential Property of the Year (35 units and under). The residential development converted historically significant barns dating back to 1908 into much needed high quality family housing surrounded by Devon countryside.

Commenting on this year’s shortlisted projects, Emma Honey, Partner and Head of the Real Estate team at Michelmores LLP said: “The South West is undergoing rapid transformation with strategic commercial and residential development taking place throughout the region, alongside exceptional restoration projects and smaller scale residential developments of note.

“This year’s shortlist reflects the exceptional quality of the development that has taken place over the last year. Congratulations to everyone involved in this year’s shortlisted projects - we look forward to revealing this year’s esteemed winners at a virtual event in November.”

Dial the Experts The handy guide to Plymouth trades & services

R.C. Electrical - Ryan Cross

ARCHITECT J & M ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN House & Building plans Extensions • Conversions • Alterations Planning & Building regulation applications Fast & efficient service 01752 936125 07745 392764 jjmmdesign@yahoo.co.uk • www.jmdesign.org.uk

BLINDS

UK Blinds Plymouth Ltd We won’t be beaten on price or choice!

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

BUILDERS

DMC PLYMOUTH RETAINING WALLS AND STONEWORK. REFERENCES AVAILABLE ON CHECKATRADE. DMCPLYMOUTH@GMAIL.COM 07938976544

D HEWLETT GENERAL BUILDERS • All general household maintenance work undertaken • • No job too small • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Plastering • • Carpentry & joinery • Guttering • Windows • Bricklaying • • Bedrooms • Facias • Driveways • Patios • Decking • Call Derek on 07967 233257 or 01752 777578

CARPENTERS ALLWOOD INSTALLATIONS Trading Standards approved company Bespoke joinery • doors • staircases • bars Box frame windows • counters • PCstations.

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

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

MALCOLM WILLS CARPENTRY

Home Improvements, Refurbishments, Alterations, Purpose Made Joinery, Flooring and Doors.

Senior Citizens Rates. Call for an estimate.

07599 888841 or 01752 255154 malcolmwills2017@outlook.com ELECTRICAL ROWE NET - Electrical & Home Automation

Do you find it hard to get someone to come and do a small job?

• Fully Insured • Fully Qualified Electrician • NIC EIC Registered • No job too small or big • Free Quotations • Reasonably Priced • Satisfaction Guaranteed

Call 07860 555011 - 01752 548766 info@rowe-net.net

Fully qualified ‘Approved Electrician’ Which? Trusted Trader & Reviews on Yell.com • Over 17 years experience • FREE quotes •

www.rc-electrical.net info@rc-electrical.net 07813 195943

STEVE ELECTRICAL Fully qualified and insured electrician • Free estimates/no call-out fees • all electrical work considered • Over 20 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business • NICEIC cert • Rewires • Certification for minor or major work Very competitive prices/ high quality work.

Will beat all other reasonable quotes.

• Call Steve 07894 208842

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING

ROB'S LANDSCAPES Landscaping AND GROUND MAINTENANCE IN PLYMOUTH AND THE SURROUNDING AREA Landscaping • Gardening • Natural Stone Walling • Fencing • Gates Block & Brick Walls • Patios • Decking • Ground Maintenance • Block Driveways Pressure Washing • Turfing Artificial Grass • Chainsaw License Free estimates • 18 yrs experience • Find us on Facebook

07506 739819

robslandscapes@icloud.com

GUTTERING

TOTALLY GUTTERED BLOCKED, BROKEN OR DIRTY GUTTERS? Domestic & Commercial, High Level Gutter Vacuum (up to 4 Storey) Prompt, Efficient Service from a Local Family Business Call on 07467 297363

LOCKSMITH The Door Doctor - 24 hr Locksmith • Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting • Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs • Replacement Glass • Free Quotes 30 PERCY TERRACE, PLYMOUTH, PL4 7HG Tel 01752 516877 Mob 07989 599969

MOBILITY AID WLS STAIRLIFTS RECONDITIONED FROM £749 NEW FROM £1349 RENTALS FROM £52 PER MONTH

Mob 07887587957 Office 01752212136

OVEN CLEANING SERVICES

GREENS OVEN CLEANS Let me give your oven a new lease of life Call Trevor on 07501 645208 trevgreen4@gmail.com Fully Insured

PAINTERS & DECORATORS A.S. DECORATING & MAINTENANCE Specialising in full room skims/decor • Maintenance • Repair • Plastering • Flooring • Tiling • Kitchen & Bathroom fitting 16 Lympne Ave, Ernesettle, Plymouth Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129 Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk

ERB PAINTING & DECORATING

Decorating internal & external • Plastering Renovations • Flooring • General maintenance Garden decking & fencing • Friendly & reliable Tel: 01752 559753 Mob: 07796 961036 email: ellis-ball@hotmail.co.uk

S.G.F Decorating Services Plastering & Decorating Specialist Painting - Plastering - Wallpaper - Interior & Exterior Work - Over 30 years experience C.S.C.S Registered - Friendly & Reliable 07859 804389 stevefull@live.co.uk

PLASTERING A R PLASTERING & BUILDING From a small repair to the whole house All Internal & External Work undertaken • Plastering • Rendering • Building work • Decorating • Damp proofing • Tiling • and more Free estimates call Alex on 07904755491

STEVE BENNETT PLASTERING

Special OAP Rates Internal/External Plastering • Spar Dash Specialist • Insurance Work Welcome • UPVC Facias, Soffits and Guttering • Property Maintenance • Painting/Decorating • Coving Prompt Polite Friendly Service • No Job Too Small • Free Estimates 01752 368601 • 07971 741068 www.stevebennettplastering.co.uk • facebook.com/plasterersofplymouth

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

T.R.B Heating - Trevor Bryant

Full Heating Systems • Boiler Exchanges • Fire and Fireplace Installations • Complete Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation • Former British Gas Heating Installer • Gas Safe Registered Special offer on servicing boilers £50 (T&C Apply) 0790 6706 799 www.trbheating.co.uk trbheating@live.co.uk

Want to reach 90,000 homes around Plymouth?

Interested in advertising in Dial The Experts?

Call Dave on 01752 225623 or email dave@cornerstonevision.com

B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job too small from tap washers to central heating systems. Free quotes gas safe registered. No call out charge, recommendations can be given. 07971572632 www.bw-plumbing.co.uk PINK PLUMBERS Fast, Friendly, Reliable and tidy service by your local FEMALE plumber.

Specialist in small to medium jobs (NO VAT) 01752 412070 07540 956436

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

One Call Maintenance

Call Richard • WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS 07974101028 • GLAZING REPAIRS • GARAGE DOOR REPAIRS or email

1callplymouth@ • ANY PROPTERY MAINTENANCE gmail.com All repairs expertly undertaken

StepUp Maintenance

◆ Home repair and improvement ◆ Garden Maintenance ◆ Power washing And more (no job too small) Contact Marc for free quote 07951 029947 help@stepupmaintenance.com - www.stepupmaintenance.com FULLY INSURED SERVICE

ROOFING

DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

All aspects of roofing work undertaken, from repairs and maintenance to full restoration and new build projects.

Pitched or flat roofs • GRP (fibreglass) •lead-work uPVC Fascias & guttering • Roof-lights • Fully insured A fast & friendly service. Competitive rates.

Call or email Neil for a free estimate • 07543363225 • 01752216765 devonshireroofing@live.co.uk • www.devonshireroofing.co.uk 10% discount to Forces Veterans

LES PIKE • Emergency roof repair specialist • Concrete tiles • Natural slate • Lead valleys • Flashings All building & construction work undertaken.

45 Years experience in the building industry.

Tel: 01752 787708 Mob: 07977949898

WASTE REMOVAL

KSR Licensed Disposal REMOVAL OF WASTE Cheap rates for OAPs, For a FREE Estimate, CALL Kevin: 07810 450940 Please Stay Safe!

DESIGN. PRINT. DELIVER. Your one-stop shop for print in Plymouth Contact us today!

01752 225623

info@cornerstonevision.com www.cornerstonevision.com flyers • brochures • office printing • signs display • promotional • and much more

22 September 2020

New service to support adults with autism

Adults with autism, their families, and health and social care services within Plymouth will now have access to a new specialist support service.

The Plymouth Autism Spectrum Service (P.A.S.S), run by Livewell Southwest and Plymouth City Council, will offer advice for adults with autism and their families, and a consultation service for professionals working with adults with autism.

The Advice Service is for adults with autism and their families to discuss their challenges as well as their abilities and strengths.

P.A.S.S. Advice Service is for those aged 18 or over, registered with a Plymouth GP, and have a diagnosis of autism but do not meet criteria to access support from the learning disability service. Adults with autism can self-refer to the Advice Service and be referred by anyone with consent.

Currently the Advice Service appointments and groups will be virtual using the Livewell Connect App. You can download the referral form from the P.A.S.S. Livewell website page www. livewellsouthwest.co.uk/plymouth-autismspectrum-service Dr Sarah Williams, highly specialist clinical psychologist at Livewell Southwest, said: “This is one of a few services across the country dedicated to delivering post-diagnostic autism support. This service has been set up to help people with autism and their families get the most out of their lives and their communities.

“The team is here and ready to support the people that need us, including practitioners who want to learn more about how to better support people with autism. We are a committed and passionate team, dedicated to helping the autism community, their families, and society as a whole.

“Our community support offer is varied and ranges from employment support, housing advice, help to take up or expand on interests, as well as mental health support, social care support and help with benefits.

“We also offer groups designed to help support people with autism like the Navigating Autism group and mindfulness practice group.”

The other service offered by the team is the Specialist Autism Training and Consultation Service, which is dedicated to supporting practitioners within adult Livewell Southwest services and relevant adult Plymouth City Council services to develop their understanding of autism, to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Councillor Kate Taylor, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care said: “I could not be more pleased to see this service come to fruition.

“Being able to help people live more independently, with better support and more of their needs met will have a great impact on quality of life to adults with autism in Plymouth.

Thank you to the hardworking staff who make services like this so fantastic.”

Teams and practitioners can access the Specialist Training and Consultation Service by emailing livewell.pass@nhs.net.

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 September 2020

Clip ‘n Climb open for business again Clip ‘n Climb in Derriford has opened for business again after being closed since March.

The popular centre in Brest Road offers more than 40 indoor climbing lines and is popular with families and people of all ages.

The team at Clip ‘n Climb had spent several weeks preparing for the re-opening, working hard behind the scenes to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment so that customers could climb with confidence.

Manager Michelle Perrin said: “It’s been a challenging three months, but thanks to our collective effort and the support of Clip ‘n Climb International and our staff, we have been able to welcome back our customers, so that they can enjoy family time together doing something they love, with all the right precautions in place.”

Following government guidelines hand sanitiser is available throughout the centre for customers to use after every climb, while the centre staff regularly clean all touch surfaces throughout the day.

Session sizes have be reduced to make it easier for everyone to keep a safe distance and staff wear appropriate PPE. Customers are welcome to take their own face covering if they wish to do so.

Pre-booking is now essential as are contactless payments.

Michelle added: “As always, the safety of our customers and staff is our top priority and we will continue to follow Government guidelines to make any necessary alterations.”

For bookings or more information visit www. plymouthclipnclimb

Plymstock painter Paul Mills completes 100km challenge to raise funds for St Luke’s Hospice A Plymstock painter and decorator has raised almost £1,000 for St Luke’s Hospice after walking an impressive 100km through the South Hams over a period of two days.

Paul Mills took on the walking challenge over the weekend of August 1 and 2 and attracted donations from people near and far who came to hear of his efforts, including one donor in Australia.

To complete 100km Paul had to complete a total of 31 miles on each of the two days.

Paul chose St Luke’s because of the invaluable end of life care they offer to people.

Giving his sore feet a rest at the end of his walk, Paul calculated he had taken a staggering 133,500 steps during the course of his marathon walk.

Paul said: “My personal challenge is now complete . Thank you so much to all who have sponsored me and helped raise vital funds for St Luke’s Hospice.”

(Story courtesy of www.plymptonpodcast.org.uk)

@PlymChronicle

Remote hospital appointments are miles better Thousands of miles in car journeys have been slashed in Plymouth and Devon, as an added bonus of hospital appointments carried out by telephone or video.

Patients who responded to a survey at one local trust alone reported a total of 9,000 fewer miles and saving many frustrating hours on the county’s roads and in hospital car parks as they broadly praised the experience of seeing their hospital team or consultant from their own home.

Those who still needed to attend hospital said that their appointments felt safe and well organised. Even before the arrival of COVID-19, Devon was leading the way in linking patients with their doctors online to improve efficiency and personalised care.

Now remote clinics are being used by many specialties, allowing people to see a specialist promptly, safely and without having to travel to hospital.

Thousands of appointments already take place this way every week in Devon, saving travel time and costs and supporting social distancing.

At University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, more than 150 members of clinical teams have undertaken 3,456 video consultations since April.

A further 93,062 have taken place by telephone. Mental health providers Devon Partnership NHS Trust and Livewell Southwest are also offering services remotely where possible, while continuing to offer face to face appointments where necessary and in line with PPE and other guidance.

Devon Partnership NHS Trust’s medical director, Dr David Somerfield, said: “Mental health providers have been at the forefront of delivering virtual consultations with patients since the onset of the pandemic. More than 100,000 mental health consultations have been conducted with people right across the south west since late March.”

A spokesperson for Livewell Southwest said: “Livewell Southwest has delivered more than 6,500 virtual consultations via our Livewell Connect app and platform since March, which has allowed us to continue to support people with their health and social care needs. “This has been used successfully by a number of our services and teams including our dental access service, the wellbeing team and our First Response Service. “Our 24/7 First Response Service supports those over 18 in Plymouth experiencing a mental health crisis, and has had more than 4,000 calls since launching in May.”

Paul Mills

USEFUL NSPCC workers in month-long fundraiser NUMBERS September 2020 23

@PlymChronicle

Children’s charity colleagues in Plymouth have walked more than 2,000 kilometres as part of a lengthy challenge to help fund their work in the city keeping children safe from harm.

Inspired by the NSPCC’s Run30 fundraising challenge, which encourages people to run, walk or jog 30k in 30 days, the team embarked on an epic fundraiser of their own.

The employees from the NSPCC Centre in Cattedown have surpassed their target to cover 1,846km between them during July by walking, jogging and running the distance between the four NSPCC Together for Childhood sites across the UK, of which Plymouth is one.

The partnership programme is being piloted in Ernesettle and aims to prevent child sexual abuse by reinforcing simple safeguarding messages in communities to build confidence in adults to protect children from abuse.

“Virtually, we made it to Stoke on Trent, Grimsby, and Glasgow before covering the distance back to our centre in Plymouth,” said Children’s Service practitioner, Sarah Cox who organised the challenge.

“In fact we have been so resolute to complete the challenge that we exceeded that distance altogether, clocking up more than 2,150 kilometres around our work and family lives.

“There are some very tired legs in the team, but we are delighted to have been able to work together to complete

this challenge and achieve our personal goals.”

The team have raised more than £2,200 for their work in the city, including the preventative Together for Childhood programme. The NSPCC is one of around 30 partners working on initiative in the city.

In addition to its preventative work, the charity also offers

therapeutic services to children and young people whose lives have been affected by sexual abuse.

Sarah added: “We are all too aware of the devastating impact that abuse can have on children, and with our Together for Childhood work we’re determined to prevent it from happening in the first place.

“We have been completely overwhelmed by the support we have had from family, friends and members of the public, cheering us on every step.“It’s definitely helped us get through this month-long challenge and we are thrilled to have raised so much money for our work, which we know can be life-changing.”

The NSPCC in Plymouth has started welcoming some families back to its centre by appointment only, with work taking place virtually where possible.

Caroline Morgan, supporter fundraising manager for the NSPCC in the South West said: “Our colleagues in Plymouth have shown that together we can continue to raise crucial funds even when we are apart.

“We rely on public donations for 90% of our income, and the team has done brilliantly – raising money so that the NSPCC is still here for children, young people and their families across Plymouth.”

For more details on how the team completed their challenge visit their JustGiving page.

For more information on how to sign up for the Run30 challenge in visit the NSPCC website.

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 or visit nspcc.org.uk 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.

Councillors support for emergency volunteer doctors Ten Plymouth City Councillors have donated £1300 to BASICS Devon, the network of 14 emergency volunteer doctors who provide specialist medical care at the scene of an accident or illness.

The councillors used money from their Community Grant funds to support the work of the volunteers.

BASICS Devon specialist doctors have responded to 50 emergency callouts in the last two months and were first on the scene at 49 of them. They are working hard responding on the frontline, assisting the emergency services with call outs as they increase as lockdown restrictions have lessened.

Devonport councillor Kate Taylor said: “It’s a pleasure to support the volunteer immediate care doctors closest to Plymouth. They offer an important service in backing up our emergency services, reducing response times and reaching remote vulnerable communities faster.

“This is particularly important now given the challenges we have seen with COVID-19 as they support our incredible ambulance service. They do so as volunteers and it’s important to recognise their contribution to supporting those in need.

Councillor Rebecca Smith, Plymstock Radford Ward said: “One of the many highlights of being a City Councillor is being able to distribute a pot of

Community Grant money each year to my Ward and to the wider city. It was a pleasure to use a small portion of this year’s grant to support BASICS Devon and their volunteer doctors serving the community across Plymouth. Thank you for all you do.’

Councillor Tony Carson, Peverell Ward also donated a share of his funds. “I am thankful for the opportunity to add a donation to this wonderful group of individuals who are ready to respond at a moment’s notice to what is inevitably a major incident.

Having learnt of the results BASICS Devon have had in saving lives it was compelling to help them out with a donation.’

Councillor Pam Buchan, Honicknowle Ward said: “Many voluntary organisations have taken a hit under COVID, losing funding and unable to fundraise. BASICS Devon offer an important medical service in Plymouth and Devon and I’m happy to have been able to support them at this time to ensure that service keeps on running.”

The funds will go towards annual support costs for the volunteers such as equipment replacement, education and training and mileage costs.

If you would like to make a donation to BASICS Devon or to find out more about BASICS Devon response to Covid-19, please visit www.basics-devon.org. uk

PLYMOUTH HALF MARATHON POSTPONED AGAIN - UNTIL MAY 2021 Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival, which includes the Half Marathon, 10k and 5k, has been postponed to May next year because of the COVID-19 crisis and the need for social distancing which would affect the races.

A survey by Run Plymouth also found that almost half of all participating runners would not feel safe taking part in the event on its originally scheduled date of October 4 - having already

been postponed from May this year. The races will now take place on Sunday May 16 2021.

Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, Pete Smith, said: “We understand this is disappointing news for everyone who was due to take part.

Our running series is incredibly popular and it provides huge economic benefits for the city, so this is not a decision that has been taken lightly - but the safety of runners, spectators and staff is our absolute priority.”

David Williams, director of Run Plymouth,

said: “We have explored a number of options but we’re passionate about the quality of our events and feel that the new guidelines would have negatively affected the experience of everyone taking part. We’re looking forward to returning in 2021 with another brilliant event for runners of all ages and abilities.”

All participating runners have been contacted by email and will be able to defer their entries to next year. For updates about next year’s events, visit www.runplymouth.co.uk.

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard 999 or 112 Police general enquiries 101 Derriford Hospital 01752 202082 Electricity, Western Power Distribution 0800 678 3105 Gas, Wales & West Utilities 0800 111999 Water, South West Water 0344 3462020 Environment Agency (Emergency) 0800 807060 RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Helplines

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

Travel

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

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

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

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

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Chronicle, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623

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

24 September 2020

24 September 2020

@PlymChronicle

University scientists on UK voyage aimed at inspiring young marine conservationists of the future Scientists from the University of Plymouth have set sail on a voyage aimed at inspiring young people through marine environmental science.

The expedition around the British Isles, aboard the tall ship Pelican of London, is being coordinated by the UK-based organisation Darwin200 and includes professional crew training young sailors and University staff training young scientists.

It will include an ocean science programme which has been devised by Dr Charlotte Braungardt and Dr Richard Sandford, from the University’s School of Geography, Earth and Environment Sciences.

They will be leading scientific observations, experiments and problem-solving sessions related to ocean processes, marine ecology and chemistry, plastic pollution and renewable energy aboard the ship as it makes its way around the UK coastline.

Some of the gathered data will contribute to ongoing science projects, including marine mammal surveys for the Sea Watch Foundation.

This is the second expedition Dr Braungardt and Dr Sandford have undertaken aboard the Pelican of London, the first having been a pilot of SEA the Future, the ocean education programme of the charity Adventure Under Sail, who owns the ship.

Dr Braungardt, associate professor in Environmental Science, said: “The ocean is a special habitat. On land, the inhabited zone extends only a few tens of metres above ground and a few metres below ground. The oceans are different and this alone is reason

Dr Charlotte Braungardt and Dr Richard Sandford aboard the tall ship Pelican of London (Credit University of Plymouth)

Advertise to

over 21,000

homes in Plympton and Plymstock

Garden waste collections will be back up and running in Plymouth on Monday August 24.

to cherish, understand and protect this habitat in all its diversity.

“We’re extremely pleased to be involved in this project and mentoring the onboard scientists. We hope to encourage them to investigate the human impact on this awe-inspiring environment and discuss ways to address it on all levels, from individual behaviour to high-tech and global governance solutions.”

The UK voyage will call in at Southampton, Plymouth, Cardiff, Liverpool, Belfast, Glasgow, Hebrides, St Kilda, Orkney, Shetland, Edinburgh and London, where the journey ends with a sail through Tower Bridge. It will

then be moored in London for a week where live lectures will be broadcast from the ship.

The tall ship arrived in Plymouth on August 10.

It will test the outreach platform and onboard systems for a two-year global voyage, which will harness the legacy of Charles Darwin by re-tracing his journey onboard HMS Beagle almost 200 years ago.

The prime objective of the global project is to find 200 next-generation global conservation leaders and inspire 200 million people by providing a platform of free, interactive resources for all school children, university students, teachers and the general public.

Currently planned to start in 2021, five global research projects will be conducted and the ‘world’s most exciting classroom’ will visit the 50 ports where Darwin made landfall.

Stewart McPherson, Darwin200 project leader, said: “In preparation for the Darwin200 global voyage, we’re embarking on a UK-wide initiative that brings along ten new scientists to carry out a detailed science programme throughout the 59-day project.

“We’re planning on a host of activities such as live lectures, citizen science project updates, and we’ll be publishing findings from the science programme on a daily basis. We hope to engage tens of thousands of young people across the UK to look at the health of the UK waters and better understand marine conservation.

The team’s vision is to change the world by creating the next wave of determined young conservation leaders, whose careers spanning several decades, will build a brighter future for our planet.”

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 October edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Plympton and Plymstock will be published on September 11 with a copy deadline of September 1.

The Plympton and Plymstock edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than

90,000 homes throughout the city.

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

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

The Pelican of London tall ship moored in The Barbican on August 10 Photo courtesy of Malcolm Harrison

Garden waste collections to start again on August 24

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To make up for the lack of collections in recent months the service will be extended until November.

Instead of fortnightly, the City Council will be running a four-weekly service for the remainder of the year. It means each household is expected to have three or four collections before the year is out.

Collections were suspended in April so that green and brown bin collections could be prioritised throughout the worst of the pandemic. As a result there has been little disruption to the main collections throughout lockdown.

Last year, the council started to make new plans for garden waste collections in 2020 because the fluctuations in demand sometimes meant the scheduled routes could not always be completed.

To address this, the council started to review the routes, invested in in-cab and introduced a registration scheme which has had over 38,000 households sign up.

This was done to improve efficiency by building data on who was using the service and how often, allowing collections in streets where the would be garden waste.

COVID-19 scuppered the plans and brought many challenges, including restrictions on how operations can work, increased waste from households and the need to safeguard some vulnerable staff.

Although most of these staff are now back and lots of measures are in place, there is still only have a finite number of drivers, a lot of whom have been working non-stop, without a break since March.

The council has hired 14 more staff to act as loaders although the key challenge has been recruiting experienced refuse truck drivers.

Information on the relevant collection days can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ binsrecyclingandwaste/checkyourcollectionday.

The usual guidelines on presenting up to four bags still applies and householders can find out what can and cannot go in the bags at www. plymouth.gov.uk/gardenwaste Householders who have not yet registered for garden waste collection, can do so at www. plymouth.gov.uk/gardenwaste

Chronicle Plymouth

September 2020

A new app has been launched featuring self-guided history trails around the city See page 13

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

CONNECT WITH US @PlymChronicleDN

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Plympton & Plymstock

Theatre Royal Plymouth has announced details of five blockbusters shows See page 11

ALSO INSIDE:

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

Plymouth’s Clip ‘n Climb is back!

Plymouth’s popular Clip ‘n Climb centre in Derriford is back in business after being closed for four months. The attraction has followed Government guidelines to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for customers of all ages • See story on page 22