Plymouth Chronicle November North 2023

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November 2023 A big yellow dinosaur has delivered an important message to children in Plymouth See Page 2

A campaign has been launched to give breast cancer patients greater confidence during their treatment See Page 12

Derriford & North Polish sailor Arek Pawelek has set sail from Plymouth aiming to set a new around-the-world solo sailing record See Page 15

ALSO INSIDE: Looking for a tradesman?

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New Armada Way plan

This stunning artist’s impression of how Armada Way could look at night under new proposals for the city thoroughfare which have been unveiled by Plymouth City Council as part of a major consultation process • Full story on page 12

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2 November 2023

Dinosaur delivers important message Pantosaurus, the NSPCC mascot, received a pop star-style welcome from schoolchildren in Plymouth as the dinosaur mascot dropped into storytelling events in schools and libraries across the city.

The NSPCC character was in Plymouth to visit children and help to deliver the Talk PANTS message, a simple and age-appropriate conversation to help keep children safe from sexual abuse.

At Crownhill Library children from nearby Widey Court Primary School went along to hear the story of Pantosaurus and the Power of PANTS and had a surprise visit from the yellow dinosaur dressed in his brightly coloured pants.

The children delighted in seeing the mascot and encouraged him to dance along with them as they listened attentively to the story.

They got to learn the PANTS acronym: Privates are private Always remember your body belongs to you No means no Talk about secrets that upset you Speak up - someone can help After learning the story the children all had a chance to get a Pantosaurus sticker and to have their photo taken with the larger than life character.

Jenny Jones, Year 1 teacher at

Children from Widey Court Primary School pictured with Pantosaurus, the NSPCC mascot

Widey Court Primary School, said: “It’s a really important message and it is done for children in a really fun and engaging way. It enables the children to say no and take control and find someone they can trust.”

Pantosaurus has also been visiting early years settings across Plymouth as well as other schools and libraries in the city.

Maherush Khan, local campaigns officer for the NSPCC, said: “We are used to talking to children about staying safe in different settings both in and out of the home, for example, talking with them about crossing the road safely. But what about speaking to them about messages that will help to keep them safe from sexual abuse?

“We understand that talking about this topic might feel daunting for parents and carers, but it doesn’t have to be. PANTS has been created specifically, with the help of parents and professionals, to make sure these conversations are as easy and appropriate as possible for children.

“Every family is different and

when and where you have these conversations will depend on your child – it’s all about whatever feels natural for you and them. Some parents have told us that bath time, getting dressed, and car journeys have worked well for them. Or you can start talking PANTS with the help of our friendly dinosaur Pantosaurus, featured throughout our website page and materials.

“We want to thank our partners across Plymouth who support the campaign and help us to spread the Talk PANTS message.”

As well as the storytime sessions and assemblies with Pantosaurus, the NSPCC also held online webinars for parents so that they could learn about Talk PANTS and how to share the messages with their children.

Schools in Plymouth will also be supporting Talk PANTS using new school resources which help deliver the Talk PANTS messages through classroom lessons and activities.

For more information on PANTS visit www.nspcc.org.uk or search ‘NSPCC PANTS’ online. Any adult worried about the welfare of a child or in need of support and advice can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk. If a child is in immediate danger, call police on 999.

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November 2023

NHS Careers Hub launched at City College Plymouth University Hospitals Plymouth (UHP) NHS Trust, City College Plymouth, and Livewell South West have partnered to create an NHS Careers Hub in the heart of the city.

College UK first with trailblazing initiative

Used by industry leaders and top universities around the world, MapsIndoors from MapsPeople transforms how students, staff and visitors navigate their way around the college site using the same digital AI technology which powers Google Maps.

Once they have accessed the MapsIndoors platform on the college’s website, users will gain access to an interactive map of

Top charity award for Hearts Together chief executive

Liz Harding (centre) pictured with the award

The innovative hub – which is located on the City College campus within the reception area – is set to significantly enhance students’ access to job opportunities within the NHS, creating a seamless integration of workforce development across multiple sectors within the city.

The NHS is facing an unprecedented demand for healthcare professionals to address both current and future needs, with a particular emphasis on preparing for the years ahead.

To align with the NHS goal of creating a 21st century workforce by 2024/25, the NHS Careers Hub will widen participation across the city by raising the profile of the Pictured at the official opening of the NHS Careers Hub (from left) Tudor Evans, 350 different career paths within the NHS. leader of Plymouth City Council; Ann James, chief executive of Plymouth Hospitals It will provide careers information, advice NHS Trust; Michelle Thomas, chief executive of Livewell South West and Jackie and guidance to students aged between Grubb, chief executive of City College Plymouth 16 and 18 in both City College and also careers within the health sector. next generation through the Careers Hub.” schools in Plymouth.

“The current employment landscape Ann James, chief executive of UHP, The advice and guidance will not only in this sector highlights the need said: “We are really excited about the signpost young people to one of the for a continuous supply of talent for NHS Careers Hub at City College Plymouth many vocational and academic courses various roles. Our collaboration with and what it will deliver for our local on offer at City College, but also towards UHP and Livewell South West opens up community. This initiative will provide apprenticeships. In conjunction with opportunities for students throughout the young people with the opportunity to UHP, the college has recently welcomed college to explore these career pathways explore the various career paths available the second cohort of students onto the while also extending these resources to within the NHS. healthcare support worker apprenticeship our local schools.

“The space will enable young people within the hospital to promote a more “One of our key strategic initiatives to interact with our organisation and experience-based pathway into the at the college is to promote health and healthcare professionals, and hopefully healthcare sector. well-being within our community, and the inspire them to consider a career in the Given the city and the region’s growing establishment of our NHS Careers Hub NHS. We are thrilled to be part of this and ageing population and the overis a vital step in expanding participation exciting project and look forward to reliance on the health service in recent citywide to ensure our community continuing to work in close partnership years, the college and its partners have receives effective care.” with City College Plymouth and a clear opportunity to lead the way Dawn Slater, director of Professionalism supporting the next generation of NHS in supporting the health and active and People at Livewell Southwest said: colleagues to develop.” wellbeing of Plymouth.

“We are thrilled to be a part of the NHS A completely free resource available The launch of the NHS Careers Hub Careers Hub along with our partners at to young people in the city, the Hub aligns with the college’s mission to play University Hospitals Plymouth. The new offers them the opportunity to explore an active role in preparing the workforce Workforce Strategy for the NHS puts various NHS career options, initiate the of the future and fostering collaborative emphasis on creating the workforce of development of their career paths, and initiatives throughout the region. the future, which will bring with it new seek answers to inquiries related to NHS Jackie Grubb, chief wxecutive of City pathways of entry into clinical and nonemployment.

College, said of the launch: “As the anchor clinical roles. institution for skills in the city, we are For schools interested in finding out “It is a time of great opportunity for committed to widening participation how the Hub can help their pupils, please someone looking to develop a career with and raising the profile of the variety of call 01752 305300. the NHS, so we hope to truly inspire the

City College Plymouth is the first further education college in the UK to create an interactive digital map of its buildings and wider campus with MapsIndoors’ digital wayfinding software.

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the college campus. They can then personalise their navigation by selecting the most disability-friendly route between classrooms, locating the nearest washroom, or finding an elusive study room.

City College Plymouth, recognised as an accredited Google Reference College, stands at the forefront of innovation in adopting impactful digital technologies.

In partnership with digital technology innovators C-Learning, the college has ensured that the interactive map was available to both new and returning students starting courses in September.

City College Plymouth’s chief executive, Jackie Grubb, elaborated

on the college’s strategic approach to easing the transition for new students: “Recognising that new students can often face challenges during their initial weeks on campus as they familiarise themselves with the environment, we have strategically introduced our innovative digital interactive MapsIndoors navigation platform.

“This strategic move not only alleviates the stress and anxiety associated with starting college but also affirms our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel empowered to explore the full range of opportunities the college has to offer.”

sustaining the charity through Hearts Together chief uncertain times whilst making huge executive Liz Harding, has steps in advancing the mission and be honoured with the ‘Rising future goals of the Hearts Together.

Leader of the Year’ award at In response to receiving the award, the 2023 Charity Times Awards.

The award highlights Liz’s outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to making a difference to the lives of individuals and families who find themselves in need of Hearts Together’s services at the Plymouth-based Hospital Hotel.

The Charity Times Awards are among the most prestigious events nationally within the charity sector, championing influential and inspirational leadership across the UK. Liz’s award reflects her remarkable achievements, dedication, and visionary leadership, particularly during the pandemic

Liz said: “To be recognised among so many exceptional individuals doing extraordinary things, in some of the most challenging environments, is both an honour and a privilege, as we all strive to make a long-lasting difference for the benefit of others.”

Hearts Together is a local Plymouth charity, enabling families and loved ones to stay close together during difficult times at its Hospital Hotel - a home away from home, providing support, care and compassion when it matters most.

For details about Hearts Together, visit www.heartstogether.org.uk

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

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

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

Christmas Fair Dec 3 Free event at the China Fleet Country Cub from 10am to 4pm with lots of Christmas gift inspiration including handcrafted gifts, decorations, stocking fillers and delicious treats including mince pies, gingerbread cookies and mulled wine. The Grinch will be trying to steal Christmas and there will also be live music with a Christmas choir.

Artisan Market Nov 3 and Dec 9 The Watermark, St Leonard’s Place, Ivybridge from 9.30am to 1pm. Eclectic mix of handmade, good quality, reasonably priced products for sale all made by the sellers. Upstairs via the lift or stairs.

Coffee Morning Nov 4 Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. In aid of the Rainbow Project supporting children and families in Romania.

Bonfire Night Nov 5 Plymouth’s spectacular Bonfire Night celebration is a safe and free way to spend the most explosive night of the year. Watch as the huge bonfire is lit, then gaze in awe at the brilliant firework display. If you’re feeling brave enough, have a go on the fairground rides or warm up with a bite to eat from one of the food stalls.

Schubert, Norway and Sea Songs Nov 5 Featuring the young star baritone Aksel Rykkvin with pianist Zany Denyer and violinist Charles Mutter at Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road, Stoke at 4pm. The concert will feature music from Schubert, Schumann, and Grieg, with a lesser theme of Songs of the Sea and pieces from Aksel’s native Norway. All proceeds to Plymouth Music Accord’s educational work. Tickets from www.plymouthconcerts.com Remembrance Festival Nov 10 Presented by the Federation of Plymouth & District Ex-Services Associations at St Andrew’s Church, Royal Parade at 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start. Featuring the Band of the Royal Marines Plymouth, Plymouth Area Police Choir, Legacy Choir, Plymouth Pipe Band and Drumhead Service. Tickets £10 including programme and flag available from St Andrew’s Church Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm and The Treasury 10am to 1pm October 28, November 1 and 4.

Southway’s Christmas Table Top Sale Nov 11 and Dec 9 Lots of Christmas goodies available at Church of the Holy Spirit from 1pm to 3pm. Also children’s crafts, tombola and tea and coffee available. For information or to book a table at £5 contact Veronica on 07855 256383.

It Shouldn’t Be Like This Nov 12 A play about homelessness by Jennifer and Paul Styrene at Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise road from 2pm to 3.10pm. The play is the result of various personal interviews with both those who have experiences of rough sleeping sofa surfing or living in. Hostels and those people and charities who are trying to help with this issue in the Plymouth area.

The performance is free but donations are welcome for local charity Shekinah.

Christmas Lights Switch On Nov 16 Plymouth’s Christmas calendar kicks off with the big switch on between 5.45pm and 6.45pm. Exciting programme of free, family-friendly entertainment to enjoy on the stage in the Piazza.

Christmas Fair Nov 17 and 18 Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road from 11am to 3pm. Christmas gifts, handmade items, jewellery, cards. Christmas Wreaths. Refreshments and much more. Entry Free. Contact Marilyn 07890165524.

Plympton PL7 4LT. at 7pm. Tickets £9 and £6 Under 16s, available from wwwticketsource.co.uk/sounds or call 01752 343472.

Santa Fun Run Dec 3 Saltram Rotary Club’s annual fund raiser in the city centre will attract hundreds of Santas of all ages, shapes and sizes. The event starts at 11am and funds raised will go to Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah. For details visit www.plymouthsantafunrun.co.uk

Barbican Lights Switch On Nov 18 Join the big event on the Barbican and Sutton Harbour for an afternoon of festive family fun with free activities, rides and entertainment from 12 noon.

Switch on is at 5.30pm.

Plymouth Jazz Club Nov 19 Featuring the Martin Dale Quartet with guest musician Jade Gall at Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Tickets on the door only. More details at www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Music for the Royals Concert Nov 19 Performed by the Chamber Ensemble of London with Director Peter Fisher at Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road at 3pm. Works by Purcell, Boyce, Elgar, Sullivan Handel, Mendelssohn, Binge, Jenkins and Duke Ellington Tickets £20 www.wegottickets.com/ event/590566 and on the door. Final concert of Jeanie Moore’s 30th International Concert Series.

Angela Barnes Nov 21 Popular and critically acclaimed comedian brings her Hot Mess tour to the Quad Theatre on the Marjon University campus at 8pm. Tickets from www. angelabarnescomedy.co.uk Father Christmas Nov 23 to Dec 31 Theatre Royal Plymouth presents the magical and award-winning production of Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas in The Drum for their festive children’s show. Tickets on sale now from www.theatreroyal. com/whats-on/father-christmas/#book Christmas Fair Nov 25 St Francis Church Hall, Honicknowle, from 12 noon to 3pm. Various stalls, games and refreshments. Father Christmas will be arriving at 1pm.

Leave No One Behind Nov 25 To mark the International Day of Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, Plymouth Soroptimists are organising a community walk against gender-based violence starting at 2pm from the Cornwall Street entrance of Drake Circus and finishing at the Nancy Astor statue on Plymouth Hoe. The aim is to raise awareness of the campaign to ‘Orange the World’. Orange is a bright and optimistic colour, representing a future free from violence against women and girls.

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir Nov 25 The choir presents Handel’s Samson in The Minster

Church of St Andrew at 7.15pm. Tickets £18 in advance or £20 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com/events/586914 or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, visit plymouthphilchoir.org Christmas Fayre Nov 25 Hosted by Ford Park Cemetery from 11am to 2.30pm.

Variety of items for sale at bargain prices.

Plymouth Christmas Market Nov 30 to Dec 17 Plymouth’s popular festive market will feature dozens of traders giving shoppers the chance to pick up some individual and unique Christmas gifts.

Christmas Fair Dec 2 St Boniface Church from 10am to 12 noon. There will be a variety stalls offering gifts, cakes, bottles and tins, sweet treats and many more. Refreshments will be served throughout. Grand draw with a range of fantastic prizes. Only 20p entrance and a warm welcome.

Water Music Concert Dec 2 The University of Plymouth Orchestra present music

by Handel, Mendelssohn, Coates and more at the Roland Levinsky Theatre at 7.30pm. Admission is free but donations are welcome. Free refreshments available after the concert.

Coffee Morning Dec 2 Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. In aid of Little Bridge House. All welcome.

Follow That Star Dec 2 South Brent Singers’ popular annual Christmas concert traces the Christmas story through music, readings and poetry. To be performed at 7.30pm in St Petroc’s Church, South Brent. The programme includes musical arrangements by John Rutter, David Willcocks and Morten Lauridsen alongside composers with a Brent connection, Ben Haigh Marshall and Dom Sebastian Wolff. Concert goers will have the opportunity to join in some of the more well known carols. Festive refreshments will be served. Admission is free and there will be a retiring collection.

Sounds Like Christmas Dec 2 Sounds Musical Theatre Company present a festive celebration of song. Two performances to choose from Plymstock School, Church Road Plymstock, PL9 9AZ at 2pm and Hele’s School Plympton, Seymour Road,

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

Carol Service Dec 7 To be held in the Victorian Chapel at Ford Park Cemetery at 6.30pm. Tickets £6 which goes towards upkeep of Ford Park Cemetery.

Charity Concert Dec 8 and 9 The Down Thomas Singers will be raising funds for Barnardo’s Plymouth with their two night concert. The Candlelit Celebration of Christmas Music and Carols will take place at the Silver Jubilee Hall, Down Thomas at 7.30pm. with free parking. Tickets are £5 including a hot drink and warm mince pie. All ticket sales and the closing bucket collection will be for Barnardo’s Plymouth. Tickets can be obtained from the secretary on 01752 299204.

Carol Concert Dec 9 Presented by the South West Chamber Choir at Stoke Damerel Church at 4pm. Christmas-themed readings and choral music under the title ‘What sweeter music?’ varying from the sublime to the humorous.

Tickets £10 (£5 for 18 and under) from www.trybooking. co.uk/CRFN or at the door.

Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir Dec 9, 12 and 13 The choir presents ‘A Little More Christmas Music’ at Harewood House, Plympton on December 9 at 7.30pm.

Tickets £10 including wine and mince pie. Also at St Luke’s Light Up a Life Service at St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth at 2pm. Admission free. Also at Crownhill Methodist Church on December 13 at 7.30pm in aid of church funds. Tickets £7.

Plymouth Jazz Club Dec 17 Featuring the Dart Valley Stompers at Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill at 7.30pm.

Tickets on the door only. More details at www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Carols by Candlelight Dec 21 Festive celebration at Salisbury Road Baptists Church at 7pm followed by mince pies and hot drinks. All welcome.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The funding will boost the waterfront and city centre Photo: Dom Moore

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6 November 2023

Rich diversity at Thornbury Primary Every day at Thornbury Primary School is full of new experiences and learning opportunities, from learning about lemons through to exploring how music is used to communicate.

Headteacher Claire Hardisty said: “We are very proud of our rich curriculum which engages children in their learning, and builds on their knowledge and skills. At the same time, promoting mental health and wellbeing is also really important to pupils, staff and families, as is an understanding of the world the children live in.”

The school year starts with a two week dive into a bigger topic, such as diversity. During those two weeks, children were involved in an activity with lemons revealing that all lemons look alike, but actually are slightly different.

They were also involved in reading texts such as It’s OK To Be Different, discussing how to respect people’s differences, and how people can belong to many diverse groups and communities. This linked to art, with experimentation using different media and studying the work of Matisse and Picasso.

The school’s considered and deep approach led to it winning a national award for Pupil Mental Health and Wellbeing earlier this year.

This term children have been listening to classic music works by Pachelbel and the Norwegian composer, Grieg. Many of Thornbury’s children take music lessons in piano, keyboard, and guitar and love exploring the wider world of composers.

Meanwhile lots of children enjoy sport in and outside school, from cheerleading to

golf helping the school to achieve a Platinum Award for commitment to PE. The children also enjoy competing against other schools in festivals, including those run by the Connect

Academy Trust, such as cross country or archery.

The whole school celebrated European Languages Day recently starting with a Language Assembly, and then a whole day of activities learning about different languages and European cultures and beyond, including looking at the rich diversity of languages among the

school’s families and children.

Many of Year Five and Six pupils have taken part in a life-enriching residential in Brixham, stretching themselves with the high ropes course, or surfing and other water based activities.

Children at Thornbury also get the opportunity to develop their leadership skills across the school. Older children are play leaders or buddies for playtimes, sports leaders, helping with sports activities and organising games at lunchtime, and Reading Buddies. Through learning the school’s innovative Ocean Curriculum, the children also are encouraged to develop a sense of the environment, and their role in the looking after the oceans for everyone’s future.

Claire Hardisty added: “We are developing the citizens of the future, and we are very proud that our curriculum and grounds, our lessons, relationships, and every aspect of school life, enables our children to develop into confident, resilient and responsible young people.”

Learning about lemons (top) residential water activites (main picture) and music (right) are all part of the diverse curriculum at Thornbury Primry School

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

Panto stars ready for the big show!

An evil ringmaster, a lion tamer, a clown and their circus chums joined forces to officially launch Theatre Royal Plymouth’s 2023 pantomime!

Goldilocks and the Three Bears is produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, and will begin its monthlong run at TRP on December 15, running until January 13 2024.

This spectacular pantomime stars double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes as the Ringmistress Olympia, Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell as Goldilocks and former Strictly Come

Dancing professional dancer Brendan Cole as the rival ringmaster, Baron Von Bolshoi, set on ruining Goldilocks’ Big Top. Panto-goers will also be treated to performances by local legend and West End star Samuel Holmes as Larry the Lion Tamer, Britain’s Got Talent ventriloquist Steve Hewlett and Silly Billy and panto pro Adam C Booth as Joey the Clown.

The production, which features stunning sets and costumes from The London Palladium, is a twist on the original tale and is the ultimate family friendly show this festive season. Athlete extraordinaireturned-TV commentator Dame

Kelly Holmes will be making her pantomime debut this year.

Kelly said: “I am a mix of excitement and nerves. I’ve done nothing that compares to panto ever in my life but I’m looking forward to working with this cast, they’re a great bunch of people.”

Also setting out in her maiden pantomime role is British Soap Award winner Alexandra Mardell. Alexandra said: “I’m really excited. The nerves are there as it’s my first panto and it’s a new challenge, but I can’t wait to get stuck in. Everybody loves panto, bring the family, it’s going to be amazing.”

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on Ice finalist Brendan Cole, who is no stranger to panto - or sequins, said: “I love being on stage and this production in particular has come from the London Palladium. To be involved in it is something very special. I’m going to cherish every moment and every boo I get.”

Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner and, with the help of their madcap circus friends, they’re battling to rescue their Big Top from ruin. Will they succeed? All seems lost, until three brilliant bears join the gang…

Tickets can be booked at www. theatreroyal.com/whats-on/ goldilocks-and-the-three-bears/

Green light for Charlton Road junction improvements Extra funding has been agreed to enable the long-awaited Charlton Road junction improvement scheme in Crownhill to go ahead.

Work to create a new signalised junction and reinstate the right turn from Tavistock Road into Charlton Road, which was closed during construction of the Derriford Transport Scheme, was originally due to get under way in 2020.

However, it was postponed to avoid putting additional pressure on the road network during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as nearby works on Morlaix Drive.

While initial preparations were carried out (including widening to improve the visibility of the entry and exit from Charlton Road), other complications have come to light since – not least the need to lower a large gas main in the central reservation.

This has been done to create a longer right-turn lane and provide adequate room for vehicles to wait at the new signals (as well as a safe stopping distance).

However, extra funding has now been agreed to kickstart the project and ensure the scheme goes ahead as promised.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “This will be very welcome news for the residents of Charlton Road, who have been waiting a long time for the turning into their road to be reopened.

“We are really pleased to have been able to agree this extra funding to ensure the works can finally go ahead.

“We are now working with South West Highways on a programme to deliver the scheme and we expect to announce full details, along with proposed traffic management arrangements, early next year.”

Plymouth Labour councillor for Budshead, Kevin Sproston, said he was ‘delighted’ with the news.

“During my recent election campaign I heard time and time again how much residents wanted the turning reinstated.

“For too long they have been spoon fed excuses and misinformation on this matter by the previous administration,” said Cllr Sproston, who was elected in May. “The residents quite rightly wanted results, answers and action and I am proud to be the councillor delivering this for them.

“This Labour council has kept its promises and has put considerable time, attention and additional funding into delivering this project and I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make this happen. I now look forward to seeing the implementation and commencement of work.”

Residents of the Charlton Road area have been sent information about the development.

Budshead councillor Kevin Sproston

The service, Shared Lives, offers people the opportunity to live in their community with a host family or carer so that they can receive a personalised package of care and support.

Adults currently supported by the service in Plymouth include those with a learning disability, physical disability or mental health issues.

The service offers both long-term care and short breaks to provide respite to other carers.

It’s similar to fostering or supported lodgings for children and young people.

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

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

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “The Shared Lives service is really valuable, supporting adults with additional needs or disabilities to live as independently in possible but with essential support on hand when they need it.

This provides an alternative to supported living or care homes, enabling people to remain in their own communities and empowering them to develop independent living skills.

“We’re hoping to increase the number of Shared Lives carers in Plymouth so that more people can benefit from this brilliant service.

It’s an incredibly rewarding and unusual role that gives people interested in working in care the opportunity to work from home, so if it’s something that you’re interested in I’d encourage you to find out more.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

@PlymChronicle

8 November 2023

Rebecca’s City College chief highlights skills key role at shortages in meeting with MPs The Box City College Plymouth was part of a delegation to Westminster aimed at celebrating the achievements of the UK’s colleges, and highlighting how they support the national economy.

The Box has appointed Rebecca Bridgman as its new head of collections and programme.

Rebecca will join Plymouth’s awardwinning museum, art gallery and archive in mid-November after more than a decade with Birmingham Museums Trust, most recently as the curatorial and exhibitions manager, where she led a complete overhaul of the collection displays at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and made her mark with audience-led projects focused on collaboration, co-curation and representing local communities.

Rebecca moved to the Trust in 2012, to become its first specialist curator of Middle East & South Asian Art. Prior to this, she worked at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge as a researcher for Islamic Ceramics. She has a PhD in Islamic Archaeology from the University of Southampton and a first degree in Archaeology and European Studies from the University of Exeter.

Nationally, she has chaired the subject specialist network for Islamic Art and Material Culture which shares knowledge and best practice throughout the UK’s museum sector.

Victoria Pomery, chief executive at The Box said: “Rebecca brings a wealth of experience with her and we’re thrilled that she’ll be moving to the South West this autumn to take up this exciting new role. Rebecca has a proven track record in maximising the potential of museum collections, developing audiences and understanding the value of culture as a tool for place-making and regeneration – all of which are vitally important to us here at The Box. We’re looking forward to welcoming her on board when she arrives in November.”

Head of collections and programme is a newly created senior role at The Box. Rebecca will be part of the senior management team that oversees the delivery of the organisation’s vision, mission, values and performance targets. She will also be responsible for leading on the care of The Box’s collections, the planning, curation and delivery of its ambitious exhibitions programme and the development of local, regional, national and international partnerships.

Rebecca Bridgman said: “I am delighted to join an organisation whose vision and values align so closely with my own. It is exciting to be moving to the vibrant city of Plymouth and to have the opportunity to play a leading role in developing this dynamic, ambitious and young hybrid museum, gallery and archive.

“I look forward to working with the team, local communities and partner arts organisations to build on past successes, spark creativity and together reimagine The Box as a place where everyone, in the city and beyond, feels represented and welcome.”

To find out more about The Box visit www. theboxplymouth.com.

Chief executive, Jackie Grubb, travelled to the House of Commons to meet education officials from the three main parties.

A Parliamentary reception was organised by the Association of Colleges as part of its Colleges Week programme, and the delegation heard about politicians’ plans for the UK’s further education sector.

Jackie also had the opportunity to tell MPs and senior Government officials about the success City College Plymouth has had in driving forward the skills and training agenda in the city and the wider region.

Earlier this year, the college staged its innovative Big Skills Discovery podcast, talking with a cross section of business representatives from across the South West about the importance of skills within their organisations.

The session brought together opinion formers and key college staff to identify skills gaps and

highlight how the college can support employers to get the right people into their companies with the right skills at the right time.

Following the success of the Big Skills Discovery, the college is producing a series of podcasts, called Skilfully Speaking.

Each episode will see Jackie welcome a well-known special guest for a discussion about their own unique journey and Jackie Grubb career path - all linked back to the skills, education and life experiences that helped them to succeed.

Jackie said: “Skills shortages are posing challenges to the future success of businesses in our region, emphasising the importance of engaging in conversations about inspiring life experiences. This is why we have placed a significant focus on addressing the skills gap.

“We are constantly seeking new ways to engage and inspire individuals, helping them to move forward in their own career journeys.

Plymouth MP in key role supporting care leavers Plymouth MP Johnny Mercer has stepped up as the new Cross-Government Lead for care leavers to secure improved outcomes for young people leaving care,

Over 80,000 children are currently in the care system costing the country £10 billion a year. At the age of 18, young people can leave local authority or foster care, however some young people leave care as young as 16 or 17.

Young people leaving care are known to experience poorer emotional and physical health outcomes and face barriers to education and employment. These challenges faced by care leavers remain a hidden inequality.

Johnny Mercer is acting on the recommendations of the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care, which gives care leavers a voice in the policy making process.

Announcing his role at a meeting of the newlyformed cross-government care leavers board, the MP stated: “I know the challenges that children in care can experience throughout their lives, which is why I’m delighted to be taking on the role of cross-government care leaver lead, championing the interests of care leavers.”

In Plymouth, Mr Mercer recently attended a Meet

and Greet with the Pause, a national charity that works with women who have experienced – or are at risk of experiencing – the removal of more than one child from their care.

Speaking on Mr Mercer’s visit, the charity’s chief executive Jules Hillier said: “We were grateful to be able to welcome Johnny to our Pause Practice in Plymouth and are really pleased to see the government focus on the issues facing care leavers by creating this new role.

“We are working with women who have been in care themselves, who have then grown up to have their own children taken into care. Evidence shows that to break this cycle and to reduce the number of children going into care, support for birth parents must be more widely available.”

Reflecting on his visit, Mr Mercer commented: “Pause do outstanding, brave and vital work with some of our most vulnerable women across the city, who end up having their children removed from their care. We have some truly special people in our city.

“Together with Trevi House, who I have supported for years, they really are a beacon of hope for so many vulnerable women and I’m so proud they are right here in Plymouth.”

Johnny Mercer met with women from the Pause charity in Plymouth

“Our Skilfully Speaking podcasts will shine a light on the importance of having the right skills - be they academic, self-taught or interpersonal - using the compelling, real-life experiences of entrepreneurs and other high-profile people.”

Jackie added that Skilfully Speaking would focus on the wide range of skills needed to succeed and would look to spark ambition in people of all ages to seize the opportunities in front of them.

“Training and skills development never stops wherever people are on their career path, there is always something new to learn.

“The Parliamentary reception was a chance for us to join others to spread the word about the great work that colleges do across the UK, as well as to listen to senior people of all political persuasions about what they have in mind for the further education sector in the future,” she said.

Eva with the letter and card from Buckingham Palace

Widey Court Primary receives special Royal message of thanks

Children at Widey Court Primary School were excited to receive a letter from Buckingham Palace thanking them for the gifts they sent to King Charles and Queen Camilla to celebrate their Coronation.

The school created a whole school ‘crown’ made up of children and staff, and then turned the aerial photo into a extra large jigsaw, which was sent to the Palace along with a beautifully written and illustrated book featuring two royal rescue dogs written by a Widey Court pupil.

Headteacher Shaun Nicholls said: “We ran a competition in the school for the best story to turn into a book for the King and Queen.

“Eva, a Year 5 pupil, created a wonderful story about Beth and Bluebell, two Jack Russells rescued from Battersea Dogs Home by King Charles and Queen Camilla. She illustrated the story herself, and it is a charming tale that appealed to everyone.”

The letter thanked the school for the book and the jigsaw, and for their well wishes.

@PlymChronicle

November 2023

9

Planter raises awareness of breast cancer A pink planter has been unveiled outside Derriford Hospital to help raise awareness for the importance of breast screening.

The planter, which was unveiled recently during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, was made possible thanks to help and support from the Primrose Foundation, Denholm Industrial Services and Nevada Construction.

Speaking about her vision for the planter, and hopes to spread breast awareness, Kayleigh Davenport, a breast screening nurse at Derriford Hospital said: “Part of my role is to raise awareness and provide health promotion on breast health and being breast aware. I wanted to create a visual reminder to raise awareness of the importance of breast screening.

“Everyone loves flowers, plants, and wildlife so I decided to create a pink primrose planter to remind those who may be due to book their mammogram to attend their appointment. I believe it is also a great prompt for everyone to be breast-aware.”

Kayleigh added: ‘’I would like to say a personal thank you to the Primrose Foundation, Denholm Industrial Services and Nevada Construction who all generously helped to fund the planter, soil, and flowers. I would also like to thank the grounds team at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, in particular, Emma who has been instrumental in coordinating this project.

“The plan is to have the planter in bloom all year round therefore if anyone would like to help maintain the flowers, please contact info@primrosefoundation.org.”

The Primrose Breast Care Centre located at Derriford Hospital is designed to provide a dedicated facility for investigating, diagnosing, and treating breast disease and breast cancer. It sees over 27,000 patients per year from GP referrals and breast screenings.

The centre provides specialist support, by providing a wide range of care, support, and information for patients. These services include helping to prepare individuals for surgery, and a prosthesis fitting service, which helps restore body image for those who have

had mastectomies.

For more information on the support provided by the Primrose Breast Care Centre, or to find more about breast screening, please visit www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/ primrose-breast-care-centre/

Help with food costs

We all feel the impact of the rising cost of living every time we do a shop.

Our online Cost of Living hub includes lots of useful information that can help, including advice on how to reduce food costs and on how to get help if you need support feeding yourself or your family.

This includes:

Cooking on a budget n Information about Food is Fun, which has advice on food budgeting, low-cost recipes and ways to help save money on your food bills.

You can also find Facebook groups, where people come together to share cost-effective recipes and tips. n Useful budget recipes and cooking tips from Transforming Plymouth Together.

Accessing food n Information about the Plymouth Food Aid Network, which has a Community Food Access map showing all the different charities, community groups and organisations able to provide food support such as food banks, food larders and community fridges.

n Links to Food Plymouth, which also has a useful guide if you need information about how to access food and to Plymouth Foodbank, who can provide three days’ worth of nutritionally balanced food to local people in a crisis. n Information about co-operative ‘food clubs’ in Plymouth.

Free food and milk for children If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

Free school meals If you receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, then your child may be entitled to a free lunch at school.

Visit the Cost of Living hub at:

plymouth.gov.uk/help-food-costs

@PlymChronicle

10 November 2023

Police appeal for Brave student learns to walk again public support for emotional graduation ceremony to crack down on criminals A brave fashion graduate learned to walk again for an emotional graduation ceremony.

Devon & Cornwall Police is appealing to local communities to report drugrelated crime and activity so they can target offenders and keep local communities safe.

Drug-related crime and other associated offences, including theft and violence, has a significant impact on communities and tackling them remains a force priority.

Every year the Force takes action to disrupt individuals and criminal gangs who have been directly linked to illegal drug activity across the two counties as a result of information and intelligence from the public.

Information reported to the Force and Crimestoppers means it is able to build up a picture of what illegal activity is happening in communities and use the intelligence to inform how and where operational activity should be targeted.

Organised criminal groups (OCGs) often take advantage of the most vulnerable in our communities by taking over their homes to set up base or recruiting them to transport drugs and cash across the county on the gangs’ behalf. Many of these victims can feel trapped and under the threat of violence or intimidation feel they have no other choice but to do as they are told.

Devon & Cornwall Police is again joining forces with Wiltshire, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Avon and Somerset as part of the regional intensification campaign, Operation Scorpion, to disrupt drug-related crime and share intelligence, to create a hostile environment for those intent on dealing their illegal drugs in the region.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Parker, from Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “The public of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have more eyes and ears than our officers do and our ability to bring criminals to justice and combat crime is greatly enhanced by the information and intelligence they provide us.

“My message to our communities is very simple: if something doesn’t feel right, quite often it isn’t so trust your instincts and please tell us what you know.

“Every piece of information and intelligence has a value. If you have seen or heard something that you think we should know about, you can report it to us online at www. devon-cornwall.police.uk. The information and identity of anyone reporting intelligence to us is protected, but if you aren’t comfortable talking directly to the police, you can report anything anonymously through our partners at Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Every piece of intelligence that is received

by Devon & Cornwall Police helps to build a picture. Things may not be actioned immediately, but as more information and intelligence is gathered, it helps to build a picture that could lead to enforcement action being taken, safeguarding a possible victim or identifying someone involved in crime.

Previously information from the public has helped identify cannabis grows and prosecute criminals.

Anyone concerned about drug related crime in their area, or think someone may be a victim of drug exploitation, should report it to Devon & Cornwall Police online at www.devoncornwall.police.uk. If a crime is in process or a life is in danger, dial 999.

Ezra Riley, who is 25, collected his Arts University Plymouth graduation certificate on stage in Theatre Royal Plymouth nine months after losing the ability to walk.

Ezra, from Exeter, graduated with BA (Hons) Fashion in a moving ceremony on-stage at Theatre Royal Plymouth, supported by friends and family.

Ezra studied Fashion at Arts University Plymouth from 2018 to 2022, completing his degree during an uncertain period of ill health and subsequent hospitalisation. He was due to graduate with his cohort early 2023 but had to defer after a severe bleed on his brain.

Ezra’s health problems first became apparent during the height of the UK’s COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns. At the beginning of January 2021, Ezra suffered a seizure that was later found to be caused by arteriovenous malformations (AVM), a tangle of blood vessels on the brain that cause blood to bypass capillaries and flow directly from arteries to veins.

Specialists

Following months of appointments with specialists in Plymouth, Exeter and London, a plan was created to treat Ezra’s AVM with Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery, a type of gamma radiation beam treatment.

Alongside his treatment, Ezra successfully completed his degree before returning to Exeter to live and work full time at Helpline, becoming assistant to the manager. Ezra’s university housemates had returned to their family homes after completing their studies, but wanted to live together in Plymouth again, so Ezra found a house for them to share and they signed the contract to move in together again.

Having completed his degree, Ezra was on course to graduate alongside his university classmates in a ceremony held in March 2023 and before that to move in with his former housemates again. Ten days before the scheduled moving date in January, Ezra suffered another seizure and was hospitalised at Derriford Hospital’s intensive care unit with a severe brain bleed in January 2023.

The impact was so severe that Ezra, who was subsequently transferred to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital in February, lost the ability to walk and has stayed in the NHS Mardon NeuroRehabilitation Centre in Exeter since March, unable to yet return home to his family but responding well to treatment.

Ezra was unable to graduate in the March ceremony alongside his classmates, and has not yet been able to return to the planned house share

Ezra on stage with his father Malcolm in Theatre Royal Plymouth with his friends, although they intend to keep space for him when he is able to join them.

When the dates for Arts University Plymouth’s next graduation ceremony in October 2023 were announced, Ezra was determined to commit to his rehabilitation in order to re-learn how to walk across the stage at Theatre Royal Plymouth and collect his certificate in front of friends and family.

Overcoming his nervousness about having to walk in front of a theatre full of people, Ezra worked hard with his rehabilitation team at Mardon, embracing the therapy on offer.

Ezra said: “My graduation ceremony at Theatre Royal Plymouth was one of the proudest and most nerve-wracking days of my life. Not only did I graduate, I also walked in front of hundreds of people after being wheelchair-bound since January. Ever since suffering a severe brain haemorrhage, I Iost the ability to do numerous things, including walking, and have been working with the brilliant people at Mardon NeuroRehabilitation Centre to relearn some of those skills.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone at Mardon who made this possible. Without the amazing staff there, I wouldn’t be where I am today and I will be forever eternally grateful for them all.

I especially want to thank my wonderful, loving, phenomenal parents who have been incredible this whole time, coming in every day to help with my rehabilitation.

“I’d also like to say a massive thank you to friends and family who have visited me and been my rock in this awful time, keeping my spirits up. You are my heroes and I love you all so very much. I’d also like to thank all of the amazing staff

Ezra wearing a denim jacket that he designed and made during his degree course

hires last year the service is well equipped to support everyone.

Linda, a ShopMobility customer, said: “I wouldn’t be able to get into town and meet my daughter without using a mobility scooter from Access Plymouth. It keeps me independent. Everyone is so helpful and having a private car park in the centre of town makes everything really easy.”

If walking longer distances is a problem or spending time outdoors with friends and family is challenging, Access Plymouth can help. Based in Mayflower East Car Park, customers can park and access the city shops and leisure outlets with ease.

Prices start as little as £5 for daily hire. The service is open Monday to Saturday 9.15am to 4pm.

Access Plymouth is holding an Open Day on

November 2 at Mayflower East Car Park from 10am to 2pm where local residents can find out more about what they hire and how it all works.

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

Mobility Access in Plymouth Access Plymouth provides Plymouth’s ShopMobility service, part of ShopMobility UK, a nationwide network of centres which hire out mobility equipment to the public.

The charity has a range of equipment including manual wheelchairs, powerchairs, mobility scooters and walkers so people with restricted mobility can enjoy independence outdoors. Open to anyone over the age of 18 who are looking to access shops and leisure facilities in the city centre.

Access Plymouth provides reliable and comfortable equipment that ensure confidence and peace of mind. They have a dedicated team which includes 10 volunteers and with over 3,600

from Arts University Plymouth and Theatre Royal Plymouth who worked so hard to ensure that my graduation went so smoothly and was a complete success. It was the highlight of my year.”

Ezra’s parents, Maria and Malcolm Riley, said: “As a family, we are incredibly proud of Ezra’s determination to overcome every challenge he had faced in the last few years. His courage is an inspiration to us all.”

@PlymChronicle

Big boost for city bus services Plymouth City Council has been awarded £1,633,126 from the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan Plus Fund.

The money will fund a two-year programme to support the city’s bus network and deliver a number of measures set out in Plymouth’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, agreed in partnership with local operators.

These include more frequent buses, better passenger information, co-ordinated timetables and new bus routes.

In addition it will secure the continued operation of the passenger waiting area at the George Junction park and ride and a contribution will be made to Access Plymouth, who provide transport options for people unable to use conventional buses.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport said: “I’m really pleased Plymouth has been awarded this grant, which will help us achieve our vision to create a thriving bus network where everyone can be connected to important people and places, by services that are frequent, reliable, fast, affordable, safe and clean. It will also help Plymouth to achieve its net zero goal for 2030.”

The Bus Service Improvement Plan Plus Fund was set up in recognition of the fact that buses are the most widely used form of public transport in the UK and the importance of local bus networks in getting people to work, places of education and healthcare, leisure and hospitality services.

Councillor Kevin Sproston, Plymouth’s Bus Champion, said: “We’re using this money to test new measures in our improvement plan

est. 2003

Photo: Plymouth Citybus

and help deliver the passenger priorities that underpin it; more frequent and faster journeys and services that are reliable, affordable, safe, clean, simple, direct, connected accessible and modern.”

Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “People up and down the country deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport system. That is why we have provided Plymouth City Council with over £1.6 million to boost the city’s bus services.

“Supporting the council with introducing a raft of improvements including new and

more frequent bus services as well as new infrastructure is fantastic for local residents, who will now be able to get to work, attend medical appointments and visit loved ones more easily.”

Plymouth’s updated Bus Service Improvement Plan, which will take into account feedback gathered during the recent passenger survey, is due to be published later this month and the BSIP Plus programme will get under way soon after.

For more information visit: https://www. plymouth.gov.uk/bus-improvements

November 2023

Funding secured to demolish eye-sores

Two scruffy empty buildings in one of Plymouth’s key streets are to be knocked down to help pave the way for development that could expand the city’s flourishing cultural quarter.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities announced that Plymouth City Council has successfully secured £353,250 from its Brownfield Land Release Fund to demolish two redundant buildings in Tavistock Place on a site a stone’s throw from The Box. One building was an annex and storage site for the old museum and art gallery, while the other was a social club which closed its doors in 2017.

Cabinet Member for Finance and City Centre Champion Councillor Mark Lowry said: “Tavistock Place has changed beyond all recognition since the Box opened in 2020. It is now somewhere people enjoy events, walk between The Box and the gallery space in St Luke’s and there are now places to eat and drink.

“The Box has seen over half a million visitors and it’s fair to say these buildings are not exactly adding to the atmosphere we are trying to create.

“I’m pleased that we have managed to secure this funding to knock these empty buildings down and get the site ready for a new life. This is good for the economy of the city centre and the city.”

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12 November 2023

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The long-awaited new designs proposed for Armada Way have been published – showing a greener, safer, more family friendly city centre – a space designed to bring life back to the heart of Plymouth.

The six-week consultation on the plans for Armada Way will end on November 28.

The proposed designs aim to: • Recapture the scale and grandeur of Armada Way – providing a gateway to the city centre, linking the train station to The Hoe. • Include more trees and greenery – 50 more trees than there were previously on Armada Way (before the felling). The new trees will all be 3.5 to 8 metres high when planted, to give immediate environmental benefits and a canopy to provide cover.

• Include a huge destination play village for families – that will be the size of five tennis courts, full of spaces to run, splash, balance, swing, climb, relax and sit, for children of all ages and their carers/parents to enjoy.

• Help wildlife and nature – there will be a variety of trees providing a range of habitats, shrubs, wildflowers and reed beds, as well as bug hotels and bird boxes.

• Work smartly to deal with the city’s rainwater – includes a new surface water drainage system, powered by solar panels to make it sustainable. It will recycle the water to maintain the plants and trees.

• Provide improved safety for all – the installation of 12 and 15 metre high lighting throughout and feature lighting to up-light plants and create patterns on the ground. A muchimproved CCTV system will help to deter anti-social behaviour.

• Provide more places to sit, relax and eat – there will be space for 500 people to sit.

• Includes a new cycling path for people of all abilities – anew cycle path is proposed to cater for cyclists of all abilities, with cycle racks and Beryl Bike hubs.

• Create plenty of pop-up spaces with water and power – pop-up spaces for retail, arts and entertainment.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Our city deserves to have a better city centre, a city centre that rivals others across the country and one where people want to live, work, visit, shop and do business in.

“We have worked really hard on these proposals.

We have not started with a blank sheet of paper, but have scrutinised the feedback from previous consultations to try and incorporate as much as possible.

Artist’s impression of the new Armada Way plan and (below) part of the huge play area

“These new designs have the environment, families, business and safety at the very heart of the proposals.

“We are proposing 202 trees from a wide range of species that will give cover and shade. Trees that will thrive in an urban environment and become part of a spectacular new look and feel for the city centre.

“We have included the innovative water drainage system powered by new solar canopies, which will not only help water the trees and planting but will also protect the Sound from pollution. And most exciting, for anyone with children, we have included a new huge play area – enticing families to come to the city centre and spend their time.

“We have thought long and hard about what we think the city centre needs to bring people and life back and I believe that these proposals have got what it takes. However, I want to hear from the people who live and work in our city and understand their views.

“We have a robust consultation process, delivered by an independent company called ECF. You can tell them your views online, in person or by picking up a hard copy of the survey.

“I would like Plymouth to look forward, work together to help shape the final designs positively and constructively. This is our city centre and it is incumbent on us all to create a space that will be vibrant, green, economically sound and most importantly be a fantastic place to be.”

To see the proposals and conment online, go to: http://letstalkarmadaway.co.uk To ensure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to have their say, there will be: • A display of the proposals in various places along Armada Way, including on the hoardings around the northern compound.

• Hard copies of the survey available from Central Library for people to complete and be posted in a secure box • An opportunity to talk to one of the ECF team who will be out and about on Armada Way wearing purple hoodies at stages throughout the consultation For more information on Armada Way, go to: www.plymouth.gov.uk/armada-way

November 2023

@PlymChronicle

13

National Marine Aquarium launches ‘Feed Friday the Turtle’ Experience

up to

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

love with the Ocean and its inhabitants.”

The Feed the Turtle at The Aquarium Experience will be available from October.

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

Good news for Hartley Vale, Peverell and Mannamead bus passengers A new bus route connecting Hartley Vale, Mannamead, Peverell and the city centre will start running from Monday October 30, replacing services that were lost at the beginning of this year.

The new 30/31 service will replace the previous number 39 and reinstate part of the number 31, which were non-commercial services the council could unfortunately not continue to subsidise, due to severe financial pressures.

Run by Stagecoach South West and funded from a Department for Transport Bus Service Improvement Plan Plus grant to the council, the new service will provide an hourly two-way loop between these areas from Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays).

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “We have listened to feedback from residents in Hartley Vale, Mannamead and Peverell, who say they have really

struggled with the loss of these bus services in their communities.

“We are really pleased to have been able to work with Stagecoach to provide this valued link but we have to remind everyone that it is being funded by a short-term grant. I’d encourage them to use this service as much as possible to help it continue after the contract ends.”

Councillor Kevin Sproston, the council’s Bus Champion, added: “It’s great to see this two-way route introduced; it will help to deliver on a number of the passenger priorities identified in the city’s Bus Service Improvement Plan and demonstrates the council’s commitment to providing services that connect people to key places.

“I’d echo Councillor Coker’s comments and encourage everyone in Hartley Vale, Mannamead and Peverell to catch the bus as much as possible to help maintain these services in the long term.”

The services will operate from stop A17 on Royal Parade.

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14 November 2023

@PlymChronicle

City College strikes Gold with Teaching Excellence Award City College Plymouth has been awarded a national Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Gold Award for its ‘overall outstanding’ higher education teaching and student experience.

Pictured outside the mobile CT scanner (from left) Cabinet member for Finance and City Centre champion, Councillor Mark Lowry, Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, Nicki Collas, Future Hospital Associate Director at University Hospitals Plymouth and Colin Stuckey, lead radiographer for CT at University Hospitals Plymouth

First patients seen at temporary CT scanner in West End The first patients have been seen at the temporary CT scanner which will form part Plymouth’s new Community Diagnostic Centre.

The new Diagnostic Centre, located at Colin Campbell Court in Plymouth’s West End, will provide wider access to critical diagnostic tests.

CT scans involve a series of x-rays which have incredible accuracy and allow radiologists to detect disease or injury as early as possible. The benefits include reducing the need for exploratory surgeries, faster cancer diagnosis, and helping to determine treatment of injury, cardiac disease and stroke.

Colin Stuckey, lead CT radiographer at University Hospitals Plymouth, said: “The main benefits of the new CT scanner are that it will increase our capacity and take pressure off the main Derriford Hospital site which will result in fewer cancellations. The increased appointment availability and location of the scanner will result in a more positive patient experience.”

The mobile state-of-the-art scanner allows Radiographers to see patients while the design and construction of the main Community Diagnostic Centre site continues.

Stuart Windsor, future hospitals director at University Hospitals Plymouth, said: “This is a really important step in our wider healthcare estates plan. This mobile scanner is enabling people living in, or near the city centre to use facilities closer to their home and have access to early diagnostic tests as soon as possible.”

Cabinet member for Finance and City Centre champion, Councillor Mark Lowry said: “We have been talking for some time about health facilities for Colin Campbell Court as part of our long-term generation plans and this is a very clear signal that this vision is starting to become a reality.

“The temporary scanner means that our colleagues in the NHS can get on straight away with the critical task of testing our residents for possible health issues, which is particularly important for people living in St Peter and the Waterfront, who have lower life expectancy than other wards.

“In the meantime our teams continue to work on the full application for the main CDC building which will be over 3,000 sqm in size and will provide a range of outpatient diagnostic tests. We are just weeks away from submitting this. It’s all go!”

Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth Centre Company, said: “I know our businesses in the West End will be pleased to see this as it represents real progress and also opens up the potential for many more people to pop into shops and cafes nearby.”

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “It is great to see significant steps to help the city begin to address some of its long-term health inequalities, especially in the city centre, which has the highest levels of deprivation in Plymouth.

“Anything that makes it easier for people to get a diagnosis as early as possible has to be a good thing. The earlier people get diagnosed the better their chances of recovery or managing health issues.”

Spotlighting the high quality student experience at City College, the judging panel stated that the college delivered ‘excellence for all of its students,’ including those who are often underrepresented in higher education.

“We have over 500 undergraduate students and higher apprentices studying university-level courses in everything from business management to engineering, both full or part-time, every year,” said Ben Manning, the college’s executive of Curriculum, Quality & Student Experience.

“Our higher education student body reflects the diverse nature of our local community, which is something we actively embrace as an organisation.

“Our students’ academic experience, alongside our support services, is designed to meet their needs and support them to achieve their best possible outcomes whether that is onto the next level of their degree or into employment.”

The TEF assessment particularly praised the college for its close links with employers in the region and with other education providers, such as Plymouth University and Marjon’s, who award qualifications to their higher education students. In particular, the panel highlighted City

City College Plymouth chief executive Jackie Grubb (centre) joins with colleagues to celebrate the Gold Award

College’s ‘strong industry engagement to promote excellent graduate opportunities’ for its students.

The college is well-known for embedding vocational learning in real-world settings into its courses and often has direct involvement from industry professionals in the shaping of its provision, including its university-levelHNC/D, foundation and bachelor programmes.

Chief executive Jackie Grubb said: “City College is strategically chosen by numerous students as an alternative pathway to a BA/BSc degree due to the unique experience to be gained thanks to our smaller class sizes, extensive one-to-one interactions with our industry-experienced lecturers, and reduced tuition fees.

“Since this award particularly focuses on the experience of our

students, I’m proud that our college has retained the gold rating that we first achieved at our last assessment in 2018. This achievement highlights the exceptional contributions of our higher education lecturers and the outstanding support of our corporate teams.

“I am delighted that the panel recognised the investments we have made in our university-level provision, such as our dedicated higher education careers adviser who provides individualised support for students as they plan their next steps.”

Further information about City College Plymouth’s extensive higher education provision and a full list of its university-level courses can be found at www.cityplym.ac.uk/study/ university-level-courses.

...and it’s Gold all the way for Plymouth University as well Plymouth University has been awarded Gold ratings across the board in the latest round of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).

The Government’s Office for Students (OfS), which runs the TEF, praised the student experiences offered by the university as being of outstanding quality.

An independent panel also highlighted outstanding provision across the majority of courses and subjects in relation to student outcomes.

The TEF is a national scheme run by the OfS to encourage higher education providers to improve and deliver excellence in the areas that students care about the most – teaching, learning, and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

Professor Judith Petts, vice-chancellor of Plymouth University, said: “Achieving TEF Gold is deserved recognition for everyone connected to the University. We have always made a commitment to our students to provide a first-class student experience enriched by research, professional work, and self-development opportunities.

“This rating reaffirms that approach is yielding results, and providing our graduates with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their careers.”

The University’s commitment to its students is exemplified through the Plymouth Compass framework, designed to help all students develop as a critical and creative learner, sustainable

and global citizen, competent and confident professional, and resilient and thriving individual.

Aligned to this, the TEF panel praised the University’s vision for advancing knowledge and transforming lives within local, national and global contexts.

It highlighted the university-wide teaching and learning strategy and its investment in major initiatives and strategic cross-university approaches.

The panel also said there was compelling evidence of positive student feedback and high levels of student satisfaction with teaching and the student experience generally.

And it acknowledged the support provided by the university to ensure every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, can reach their full potential.

Professor John Curnow, deputy vice chancellor, Education and Student Experience, added: “Our staff have immense energy, passion and skill that enables our students to enjoy an outstanding experience and education.

“Delivering excellence in teaching and learning is absolutely core to our mission of advancing knowledge and transforming lives. We are committed to helping students get the most out of their studies and extra-curricular activities, so they are prepared for whatever opportunities and challenges might come their way in the future.”

@PlymChronicle

November 2023 15

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The current world record for the smallest yacht to circumnavigate the globe was achieved by his fellow countryman Arek Pawelek will spend up to 11 months at sea

PLY_2023-10-23_PlymouthChronicleSeries_16x9 (1)_Just Go

Photos credit Lech Trawicki

Reader travel

UK BREAKS

By Coach from Plymouth

CHRISTMAS IN

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Departing Thu 28 Dec ‘23

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Get ready for the highlight of the Christmas season as we travel to London for the dazzling Winter Wonderland (admission not included). Simply book your entry tickets at hydeparkwinterwonderland.com and let us take care of the rest!

The classical-music phenomenon André Rieu returns to the UK with a sensational new show, including a date at Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena! Accompanied by his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, this evening promises to be filled with thrilling music.

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16 November 2023

Young Plymouth entrepreneur wins national franchisee business award

Councillors, veterans and others involved in the project pictured in front of the Poppy Wave

Poppy wave created and displayed to mark Remembrance Sunday A wave of handmade, weather proof poppies are now displayed on the Council House balcony for Remembrance Sunday on November 12.

Luke Henderson with his GBFA certificate

Former mechanic Luke Henderson, has been crowned a ‘Great British Franchisee’ after wowing judges with the success of local business, Snap-on Tools Plymouth and South Hams.

After falling out of love with his previous career less than five years ago, Luke joined Snap-on Tools as a franchisee in 2018 with one goal in mind – build a big business! And he’s certainly succeeded. At the age of 29, he’s now the proud owner of a multivan operation. He brought his brother into the business alongside him in 2020, is one of the global brand’s top UK performers, and has plans to semi-retire by the age of 45.

“Winning a Great British Franchisee Award has been an incredible honour, and a surprise” said Luke. “I absolutely love what I do and just go out there every day with the aim of setting the best example for my team and providing the best for my customers. With the right attitude and work ethic, everything else falls into place. I’m so proud to bring this achievement home, for myself and for Snap-on!”

Luke’s story isn’t without struggle. He sadly lost his mother in 2018 just after launching his new venture. Since then, he’s channelled his energy to making her, and his family proud.

“I know my mum would be incredibly proud of me and I dedicate much of my success to her. Being able to bring my younger brother into the business and supporting him to build his own future is incredibly rewarding. I also know it’s a great comfort for my dad. He gets emotional each time I bring home an award and I hope to keep doing so for many years to come.”

A real community man, Luke sponsors his local football and teams and is passionate about spending locally to support fellow business owners.

Founded in 2021 by Which Franchise, the Great British Franchisee Awards (GBFA) recognise outstanding business performance and a commitment to franchising in the UK. Entrants were scrutinised by a distinguished panel of judges included representatives from Lloyds Bank and The British Franchise Association.

Luke’s success is making waves across the sector. As well as winning a GBFA, he’s also been named as a finalist in this year’s HSBC BFA Franchisee of the Year Awards. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Birmingham in November.

The camouflage net was donated by Royal Marine Barracks Stonehouse, and the plan was developed by Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Pauline Murphy.

The poppies have been created and donated by schools, knitting clubs, council staff and members of the public.

Internal staff sessions also took place to help with the creation of the poppies.

The Lord Mayor, councillors, members of the public and veterans attended the unveil of the poppies today, with Council House security staff lowering the net.

Councillor Murphy said: “I am so pleased that the project was a success, this is a huge passion of mine, and I couldn’t thank everyone who helped with the project enough, the ongoing support has been incredible.

“To everyone who helped make and donate the poppies, the staff members who helped attach them to the net and everyone who showed their support, thank you.

“I am so proud of this project and really pleased with the outcome.”

For safety reasons, the display will be raised every evening by the Council House security staff and then lowered again the next morning. The display will be raised during the weekends.

Innovative take on Remembrance at Widey Widey Court Primary School came up with an innovative way of encouraging children and families to explore what November 11 means, who were the people involved and where did they live and work.

Staff have placed poppies in and around the school with a QR code linking back to an interesting fact about the Second World War and Plymouth.

Headteacher Shaun Nicholls said: “Everyone has mobiles these days and this is a highly engaging and creative way to involve the wider community in finding out more about the people who lived in Plymouth during the war and getting a more personal perspective on what the war meant for those people.

‘We hope that the children get their families involved in uncovering the clues with them, and that people anywhere in Plymouth can take part too.”

Widey Court has a strong history of commemorating Poppy Day, often by creating a giant wave of poppies at the front gate. Last year the children made a display using six-hundred

Widey Court Primary’s poppy wave last year

poppies, hand crafted by the children and staff of the school using painted up plastic bottles to form a wave of poppies to show the local community their appreciation.

Widey Court Primary has a very

active community of military families at the school and supports them with lunchtime clubs. The school has a successful Field Gun Club who take part in the Junior Field Gun tournament every year.

A Plymouth primary school is bidding for a top national award for the quality of its early years provision.

The team at Eggbuckland Primary School put a huge effort into welcoming children who are just starting school helping them to settle into their school life quickly and easily.

The approach is so special that they have already won the Pearson National Teaching Award at Silver level, and now entered for Gold.

The team are one of only six schools in the country to be in the running for a Gold award which will be announced on in November at a televised ceremony in London.

The winners will be announced on BBC TV’s The One Show the week before.

Headteacher Susie Carroll said: “Early Years and Foundation Stage staff here work fantastically as a team. We work closely to build string relationships between staff, children and families, delivering a hugely successful Trauma Informed approach for help children and families cope with difficult situations or experiences.

“Before assigning any classes, the team spends the first three weeks of foundation learning about the children and observing the friendships they make.

“We have developed a holistic curriculum that invests in all seven areas of the Early Years curriculum, with children’s happiness and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do, and high levels of autonomy and choice.”

Learn CPR to help save a life Each year over 30,000 people in the UK have a cardiac arrest outside of hospital and less than one in ten survive. Giving chest compressions (CPR) and using a defibrillator can more than double someone’s chances of survival.

October 16 was ‘Restart a Heart Day’, a national initiative which aims to increase awareness of the importance of delivering CPR and using a defibrillator when someone suffers a cardiac arrest.

Plymouth City Council is encouraging everyone to take 15 minutes to learn how to do CPR through the British Heart Foundation’s ‘Revivr’ training.

All that is needed is a cushion to help practice CPR: www.bhf.org.uk.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “This is so important – by taking just 15 minutes to learn how to do CPR you could help to save a life in the future. When someone’s heart stops, every second counts so learning how to do chest compressions is a vital skill for everyone and I would love for as many Plymouth residents as possible to learn and feel equipped to deal with these kinds of emergencies.”

“If someone is experiencing cardiac arrest, the quick use of a defibrillator in an easy to reach place can also be the lifeline that keeps them with us.

The Government has opened applications for a £1 million grant to help increase the number of defibrillators in local communities. Businesses and community organisations in areas with high footfall can apply now at: www.defibgrant.co.uk.

Anyone who already owns or manages a defibrillator is also asked to register it at www. thecircuit.uk the national defibrillator network run by ambulance trusts in conjunction with the British Heart Foundation. Once registered, the ambulance service can direct people to the

closest one when it is needed.

The Circuit has a partner site, www.defibfinder. uk which provides details of the the location of defibrillators where businesses and other organisations can see if their defibrillator is already registered.

However this website should not be used during an emergency: when someone collapses and stops breathing normally, it is important to quickly call 999, begin CPR and use defibrillator if one is available.

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18 November 2023

Plymouth’s HMS Lancaster in another big drugs bust Around £3 million worth of drugs will never reach the streets after Royal Navy Type 23 frigate HMS Lancaster delivered her fourth blow to drug runners this year.

Volunteer Deb Hoskin highly commended for national award after years of uniting the community with nature Local volunteer Deb Hoskin’s contribution to sustainable living has been recognised after she was highly commended for the Unlock Net Zero Awards.

After founding her charity, Horticultural Therapy Trust (HTT), in 2012, Deb has continued to help schools, social prescribers, Harbour Pathways, Rethink and the housing association LiveWest to connect the community with the environment. The charity operates from its base at the Penlee Valley Allotments in Stoke.

She believes the award has made her reflect on her 25-year journey of helping the environment and supporting people’s mental wellbeing through nature.

Deb said: “The award speaks out about nature and people’s wellbeing and that’s a really lovely thing. To achieve this award makes me feel really warm inside, and supports me to keep doing what I’m doing.”

The Unlock Net Zero Awards celebrate those who are leading the way for others by enforcing net zero solutions and helping reduce the Earth’s carbon footprint.

Talking about her achievement of being highly commended for the Unlock Net Zero Awards, she reflected back to when she took her twoyear-old grandson to the park on her LiveWest estate along with his mother and auntie.

“I helped my children plant 18 native trees from seed 18/20 years ago and now it is an amazing woodland,” she added.

“What’s lovely was seeing the woodland now and thinking did I think I was going to see those trees grown in my lifetime and now there’s my grandson at two able to see the nuts growing on the trees.

“For him to be told that your mum, auntie and grandma planted those trees had an impact on me, it was a realisation of the work I have done.”

Taking one step further in helping the planet, Deb has achieved net zero in her horticultural work, which removes carbon emission from the atmosphere and helps more people involved in nature.

Outside of the charity, Deb continues to volunteer and take part in a vast majority of green projects to help connect people in the community with nature. “We don’t have to be anything special to help the environment. It doesn’t take an awful lot. I don’t have a lot of confidence but it is my drive to care,” she said.

“All the people who have worked for LiveWest have been really lovely and supportive to help me grow into my potential.”

Through funding from LiveWest’s Community Grant, Deb has also been able to help children at Marlborough Street Primary School in Devonport in a therapy project, where she created wildlife gardens, a pond, hedgerow and much more.

LiveWest, the largest housing association in the South West, has also supported her to create a tree-nursery with children in the community, plant an orchard and join an after-school environment club at Millbrook Primary School in Cornwall.

LiveWest is on a journey to be Net Zero by 2050 and has plans to ensure all its homes have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating C by 2028, as they continue to work towards reducing their carbon footprint.

Sailors and Royal Marines from the Plymouth warship seized the drugs from a suspect boat after the frigate’s Wildcat helicopter located the vessel in the northern Arabian Sea. HMS Lancaster launched sea boats with a specialist boarding team from 42 Commando embarked, while the Wildcat circled overhead providing cover with Royal Marine snipers. Once the marines had secured the dhow, Royal Navy sailors went aboard to begin their search for any illegal cargo.

An in-depth search of the craft unearthed over 200 packages, containing a total of 260kg of heroin and 200kg of hashish.

The drugs, weighing just under half a tonne, were subsequently transferred to HMS Lancaster, a difficult task in high temperatures and sea swell.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: “HMS Lancaster’s four seizures this year show clearly the benefit that our continuous presence in the Gulf is having for regional and global security.

“Our Armed Forces are globally deployed to maintain peace, security and stability and I am proud of how we continue to operate around the world to uphold international laws and keep people safe.”

The ship is deployed to the Middle East on a long-term mission and is part of the UK’s continuous presence in the Gulf.

The success came while HMS Lancaster operated with HMS Lancaster’s Wildcat helicopter the international Combined Task Force 150 (CTF150), which shadows the suspect dhow is focused on anti-smuggling and anti-terrorist operations in the Indian Ocean.

HMS Lancaster patrols the waters of the Middle East to counter illicit activity and is at immediate notice to respond to a variety of tasks.

The boarding and seizure involved the entire ship’s company, from the ground crew maintaining the Wildcat, to the caterers who ensured the boarding team remained hydrated and sustained, and the marine engineers who ensured that Lancaster’s sea boats remain operational around the clock for just such an operation.

Commander Chris Sharp, HMS Lancaster’s Commanding Officer said: “I continue to be proud the teamwork of the whole ship’s company, and their ability to achieve successful interdictions such as this one.

“It is a true team effort that The boarding party about to intercept requires a lot of moving parts to come the suspect dhow together as a well-oiled machine, ultimately to stop the distribution of illicit narcotics.

Over 200 packages of drugs were “This success is shared with our seized by the HMS Lancaster international partners in Combined sailors and Royal Marines Task Force 150 who provided essential support to the operation.”

Lancaster’s seizure came soon after a visit to Karachi and an exercise with the Pakistani Navy.

The seizure is one of a series that the ship has conducted this year.

Two boardings in June seized £10 million of narcotics, and in May the crew intercepted £2.5 million worth of drugs.

That means in 2023, Lancaster has prevented more than £15 million of illicit drugs from reaching their destination.

In addition, the ship also intercepted an illegal arms shipment.

@PlymChronicle

THE

Experience

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

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

The hope is they sleep for the whole way home.

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

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

As long as we keep moving we’ll be fine.

The motion of the car is soothing the baby and she’ll be asleep before too long.

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

Still waiting.

Some 10 minutes pass by and at this point

November 2023 19

Dealing with life’s diversions

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms Plymouth

the baby is awake again and Finally we wind our way back really crying. in to Bodmin and I know The kind of cry which is exactly where we are and impossible for parents to once again how to get home. ignore. But there is nothing The rest of the journey we can do, we’re on an A road passes without any more in the middle of nowhere incident and we get across knowing the traffic could move the Tamar Bridge and we’re at any point. almost home. The journey As the driver, my stress that should have been 90 levels are very high at this minutes has managed to point. Is the road closed? Has take just shy of three hours. there been an accident? Will Somewhat unbelievably we be waiting here all night? we reach yet another set of Somehow the three year old roadworks as we approach is still asleep despite the Manadon Roundabout. At increasing protestations of her this point we’re so close to Dave Simpson sister. home I’m past caring and Finally the traffic starts mercifully the girls are still to move! Right we’ll be home in around asleep and ready to be transferred to their an hour so as long we’re moving the baby respective beds. should fall back asleep and we’ll be fine.

This situation got me thinking just how 20 minutes further down the road another difficult it is when plans change and our lives diversion! At this point we’re taken off become diverted off the course we thought around some dark streets near Bodmin we were on. and I’m trying to drive as steadily as I can I didn’t handle the diversions especially for the, now sleeping again, children in the well and found the drive far more stressful back. Balancing this with driving as quick as than I needed to. In life, as in the car, losing is allowed to get home as soon as we can the control of where we’re heading is a real before they wake up! challenge. Having circumstances conspire to How long is this diversion going to be? take us along a route we don’t really want to How much time will it add to our journey? be travelling isn’t easy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walkers turn out in force to support Age UK Plymouth

A group of almost 100 walkers stepped out to raise money for Age UK Plymouth, who support over 50s in the city with a vital range of subsidised services, activities and events.

The inaugural half marathon walk covered 11 miles from Coypool across Dartmoor and the South Hams, staking in Clearbrook Village Hall for refreshments, before heading back to Plymouth.

Marketing and communications manager Bryony Rawson said: ““A group of us in the Sahara Trek Team walked this trail earlier in the year as a chance to get to know each other. It occurred to us that as an opportunity to create a more accessible flagship fundraising event, the path lent itself perfectly to a Half Marathon Walk, especially with the village hall at the half way point.

“Our various fundraising challenges have been so well supported by so many people, but it’s really important for us to have an opportunity for those who wish to take part

in an event to have an option that is more accessible, and held in the community that we support.”

Tara Dale, head of fundraising added: “Our thanks go out to the organisations we worked with to make this event possible, the teams at National Trust Plymbridge Woods, Plymouth City Council and Clearbrook Village Hall.

“Our fundraisers ranged in age from 12 to walkers in their 70s. It was very moving to see people taking on this challenge side by side with their friends, colleagues, parents and grandparents. Well done to everyone who took part and thank you for your support.”

David Wood, Age UK Plymouth chief executive said: “The money donated through these fundraising activities is such an important part of what keeps charities like us going.

“Unlike grants and money for specific projects, this ‘unrestricted funding’ allows us to take action on vital work with real urgency.

Given the current social and economic

climate, for some, the stakes have never been higher.”

Plans for the 2024 Half Marathon Walk are already being drawn up and the headline

sponsorship for the event will be among items auctioned at the charity’s Fundraising Banquet which was due to take place on October 14.

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Changes proposed to taxi and private hire policy Taxi drivers, companies as well as passengers are to be asked for their thoughts on major changes to the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy.

The coffee offerings will complement the pastries and treats from Alma Yard’s popular on-site bakery, Heyl. The impressive Piaggio van at Alma Yard will serve up a variety of freshly brewed concoctions in the cobbled courtyard.

The Piaggio will be at Alma Yard from Tuesday to Thursday between 9am and 2.30pm until November 16. Visitors who are exploring the area, people taking a break from work, or simply looking for an inspiring spot

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Photo: Tom Carder Media

Alma Yard in Plymouth’s East End is hosting a pop-up collaboration with Minerva Café, featuring their brand-new mobile Piaggio coffee van, along with their existing range of espresso-based beverages.

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The policy regulates taxi services within Plymouth and was formally implemented in May 2022, but now the Council is considering altering it to take into account the current economic conditions and the cost of living.

Consultation on the changes is due to start on October 23 and will run for four weeks.

Key changes include: · Review and or revoke the livery policy which requires new hackney cabs to be green and white, although the council will still require hackney cabs to display door signage supplied by the council. · Knowledge of Plymouth – to remove this test as a requirement for private hire to encourage more applicants to consider entering the trade. · To allow black jeans. While the dress code has been welcomed and accepted by the trade there have been continuing objections to the rule that denim jeans are not permitted. The council is now considering that black jeans be allowed as part of the dress code.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Cemeteries and Crematoria said: “We have been reflecting on the issues the trade has experienced and think

there is more we can do to alleviate some of the pressures drivers, like everyone else, face with the rising cost of living.

“While the aim of the green and white livery was to make Plymouth cabs distinctive and drivers feel proud of where they are from, we are aware that it is currently very difficult to source the white vehicles needed to create the green and white look. They are expensive and the second-hand market is non-existent.

“Plymouth cabs will still be recognisable as they will have the City Council brand on their doors with their licence details.”

“We also want to be more pragmatic about the knowledge test. Weirdly, an error in the policy wording about the knowledge test applying only to hackney carriage drivers led to a sharp increase in new applicants interested in becoming licensed private hire drivers.

“Times moved on. Private hire drivers use GPS systems or apps on smart phones. Modern dispatch systems send bookings direct to the drivers’ data pads, which have the inbuilt GPS navigation.”

There will be an online portal on the council’s website and 936 drivers and taxi and private hire companies are being sent the information on how to get involved.

While the trade are the key stakeholders in the consultation, views are welcome from anyone interested.

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Plymouth u3a celebrates group’s 25th anniversary

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

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

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

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

A good number of visitors attended the event, despite the really unpleasant weather conditions. Several signed up for membership on the spot, many more left with an invitation to attend the forthcoming General Meeting.

Representatives from another group, Moor’s Edge u3a, were also in attendance to meet residents from the North of the city who might be interested in what the organisation has to offer.

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

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

@PlymChronicle

22 November 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

innovation to reduce our carbon footprint.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The ambulance will be used as a minor operating theatre as well as rescuing injured defenders and civilians including children. This will provide vital treatment and transport to Kyiv hospitals in those most critical moments.

The ambulance is Plymouth Ukraine Medical Aid’s largest ever purchased.

Ali Piper said: “We are so grateful to everyone who has made this dream a reality. Not only are we able to take the ambulance and 4x4s but vital medical supplies to support other hospitals in eastern Ukraine.

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

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

PUMA’s Ali Piper with youngsters in Ukraine

PLYMOUTH 96.3FM or listen online at crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

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

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

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

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

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

Residents were also asked whether the number of dogs allowed to be walked by one person at one time should exceed six. Nearly 90 percent of residents said that it should not so this will be added to the PSPO. In the current order, dog owners must keep their dogs on a lead within the marked playing area of a sports pitch but as part of the consultation, residents were asked whether dogs should be excluded from pitches altogether. Results show that 54 per cent of respondents objected to this change and so it was not implemented.

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

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

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

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

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

@PlymChronicle

November 2023 23

New Royal Eye Infirmary will help reduce waiting times for patients Plymouth’s new Royal Eye Infirmary has been officially opened by a 96-year-old patient who has had a lifetime of treatment under the service of the Infirmary.

Cutting the ribbon on the day was Robert Johns, who praised staff for the treatment he had received over many decades. People with eye conditions in Devon and Cornwall and the surrounding areas can now access the brandnew state-of-the-art facility.

The Royal Eye Infirmary has moved from Derriford Hospital to Alpha Way, off William Prance Road, and includes theatres, an increased number of treatment rooms and an expanded area for children.

Ann James, chief executive at UHP said: “Many of our patients will remember the move in 2013 from Mutley to Derriford and, as we are preparing for the future hospital with major development and investment in our estate, this is a key milestone in opening improved high-quality services for our community.

Patient Robert Johns cuts the tape to open the new Royal Eye Infirmary assisted by Ann James, chief executive at UHP

The Royal Eye Infirmary team pictured in front of the new building in Alpha Way, Derriford

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard 999 or 112 Police general enquiries 101 Derriford Hospital 01752 202082 NHS 111 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

“We’re so proud of all the teams who, as always, have worked so hard to make this new facility a reality; from the building project itself, to the fit out of all of the equipment and theatres, to staffing. I know our teams are looking forward to working here, and I’m sure patients will be impressed.”

Lizzie Padgett, head orthoptist, explained how the move is good news for patients: “We can now expand our REI team, which will allow us to treat more patients in a new purpose-built eye hospital, which has more clinical space.

This should see a reduction in waiting times for those accessing REI services.

“Here in the Southwest, we serve an

aging population which means that eye care and eye issues continue to increase, with more people experiencing conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.”

The new building includes a third operating theatre dedicated to sub-specialisms, such as oculoplastic, orbital and corneal surgeries.

As a specialism, Ophthalmology (Eye Services) has a lower reliance on an acute hospital site, making it a suitable candidate for a move away from the Derriford Hospital site.

However, Paediatric surgery and specialist ROP (Retinopathy of Prematurity) treatment will remain on site at Derriford.

Sponsorship boost for Theatre Royal’s Young Company Theatre Royal Plymouth’s community project Young Company Hubs is being sponsored for the third year in a row

by South West Water’s parent company Pennon Group.

TRP bring their youth theatre, Young Company, to those that need their support the most through the Hubs project. They partner with local secondary schools in areas of high deprivation, where the young people have limited access to arts provision.

Over the past academic year, they have taken Hubs into five local schools: Lipson Co-operative Academy, All Saints Academy, Marine Academy Plymouth, Saltash.net andTor Bridge High. Thanks to Pennon’s sponsorship, TRP are reaching the young people within these schools and creating strong relationships with them, their families and their leadership teams.

They have run three terms of after school workshops in the last academic year. The young people involved, often referred to TRP by their teachers, will have expressed an interest in theatre and may need some help developing certain skills or they may face particular issues so would benefit from participation.

With Pennon’s support TRP are able to continue to offer further engagement opportunities alongside the workshops, as the young people are encouraged to audition for Young Company productions, take part in additional workshops with visiting companies and enjoy theatre trips.

USEFUL NUMBERS

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

Travel

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

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

Entertainment Theatre Royal Barbican Theatre Devonport Playhouse Plymouth Pavilions Plymouth Pavilions Ticket Store Cineworld Vue Cinema Tourist Information National Trust Saltram The Box Plymouth Arts Centre

Leisure

TRP work very closely with the young people involved in the project to ensure that it is participant-focused, current and gives them what they most need. The young people develop a range of key skills including confidence, team building, communication, problem-solving, resilience and critical thinking – all of which are key for the next stage of their lives and beyond. It’s a safe space for young people to be open, say what they need to say, explore new opportunities and imagine themselves differently.

With this further funding from Pennon, TRP can connect with and inspire more young people in some of the most deprived areas of Plymouth.

Jane Pawson, TRP’s head of artistic planning, projects said: “We are delighted

to be able to continue the Young Company Hubs with our partners schools. The generous support from Pennon allows us to reach young people that would otherwise not be able to get involved in youth theatre. Youth theatre allows young people to develop their skills in so many areas, develop friendships, have a creative outlet, and for many can have positives impacts which follow them into adulthood.”

Susan Davy, chief executive of Pennon, said: “It’s important to us to promote and contribute to the region we live and work in, and we’re delighted to be continuing our proud sponsorship of the Theatre Royal Plymouth and the fantastic work it does through Young Company Hubs to support local schoolchildren.”

01752 267222 01752 267131 01752 606507 01752 936363 03337 727727 03303 33444 0345 308 4620 01752 306330 01752 333500 01752 304774 01752 206114

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 The Met Office Weathercall

Weather

0370 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.

@PlymChronicle

24 November 2023

Plans to plant ‘microforests’ across Plymouth Advertise to

over 22,500

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“The smiles prove that kids love nature, and to

homes in Derriford and North edition The Derriford and North Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Ernesettle, West Park, Honicknowle, Crownhill, Manadon, Whitleigh, Southway, Derriford, Estover, Mainstone and Leigham.

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

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

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

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

layered level and really do have huge potential which we are of course looking at recording and continuing to develop” “Whilst our initial aim is to plant the 96 schools as part of Project 96, we would love to think that this may inspire others to get involved..why not aim to plant one in or on behalf of every school in England?”

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

Societree’s Board of Directors is made up of Steve Warren-Brown, founder and managing director of locally-based YGS Landscapes, Adam King, Steve Evans and Nick Sprague.

To find out more about Societree and how to get involved visit www.societree.uk/

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