The Plymouth Chronicle Derriford & North October 2020

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Derriford & North

October 2020

Plymouth has beaten competition from several UK cities to host the prestigious SailGP in 2021 See page 24

COVID UPDATE

Gables Dogs and Cats Home has received a huge response to an appeal for a kitten with a deformity page 12

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

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

Building hope for heroes

Plymouth Moor View MP Johnny Mercer - in his role as Minister for Defence People and Veterans - visited the Sherford Skills Training Centre to meet former Armed Services personnel who are learning now construction industry skills

• Story and photos page 13

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2 October 2020

2 October 2020

Rise in COVID-19 cases is a wake-up call for Plymouth

by Ruth Harrell Director of Public Health for Plymouth We have seen a rise in the number of positive tests for COVID-19 in Plymouth in recent weeks, in line with the picture nationally.

Councillor Tudor Evans Leader of Plymouth City Council It’s been great to see so many Plymouth businesses back up and running safely after having to shut during lockdown.

It has taken a lot of hard work for them to reopen in a safe way for both employees and customers.

COVID-19 has hit many businesses very hard and it is important that we all support them as much as possible by buying locally and keeping them safe, by wearing masks, washing our hands following social distancing measures.

This is why we are supporting a major campaign asking Plymouth residents to ‘geddon’ and shop local.

As a council this is exactly what we are trying to do ourselves – keeping as many of the pounds we spend in Plymouth.

It is just one of the many measures in our Resurgam plan to support Plymouth’s economic recovery and protect jobs in our city.

Thanks to everyone’s great efforts Plymouth has so far avoided the sort of lockdowns and restrictions seen in other cities. By working together we can keep it that way and save lives and protect jobs.

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The Government has announced new steps to suppress the virus, including tighter rules on wearing face coverings and higher fines for breaking the ‘rule of six’ (which now also applies to indoor team sports).

Businesses selling food or drink now have to close by 10pm and the maximum number of people allowed to attend wedding ceremonies and receptions has been lowered from 30 to 15.

Some of these new restrictions will now be set out in the law, with penalties for those who don’t comply. Further details are available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

The rise in cases highlights the risk the virus still poses to all our community and the need for us all to ensure we keep up the measures to keep Plymouth safe.

Any of us can spread the virus,

regardless of age. Though some of us might have mild symptoms, it does not mean that we cannot spread the virus to others who may become very unwell.

Now is the time to check that you and your family and friends are keeping up the simple measures that will help reduce the risks for everyone.

Dr Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health

• Wash hands – keep washing your hands regularly • Cover face – cover your face if you are likely to be close to others in an enclosed space; doing this protects each other.

• Make space – keep your distance from everyone except your household contacts, or those people who you consider to be your ‘support bubble’.

It is also important that anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus must also self-isolate and arrange a test.

Please only book one if you have symptoms, or if you are contacted and asked to do so.

Some people are currently experiencing difficulties in getting appointments due to a national problem with laboratories not being able to process the volume of tests they are receiving. We are pressing for this to be resolved as soon as possible.

The positive news is that despite the recent rise, Plymouth continues to have fewer cases than the national average. By all working together we can keep it that way.

Are you getting slack about keeping safe?

Are you still as careful about washing your hands regularly as you were a few months ago?

Do you wash your hands when you arrive home?

Surveys show that some people are now less worried about coronavirus than they were and admit to being less careful with measures such as washing hands for at least 20 seconds and keeping their distance from others.

Others don’t wear face coverings that fully cover their nose and mouth when travelling on public transport or in shops.

This is worrying both national and local public health experts as the risk from the virus is still very much with us, as shown by increases in cases across the country.

Plymouth City Council is backing the national information campaign to remind people to keep up these measures to help avoid a local outbreak.

It only takes a few people not to do this to spread the virus and cause an outbreak.

This can potentially have a devastating impact on people’s lives, with people (of all ages) who have underlying medical conditions and the elderly particularly at risk.

It can also potentially lead to local lockdowns, which can have a serious impact on local businesses and jobs.

It can be hard keeping up with the latest rules and guidance on staying safe. For the latest information visit GOV.UK/coronavirus

Take care if sharing car journeys Sharing a car with work colleagues or friends can increase the risk of spreading coronavirus.

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

If you need to do this, try to: • Share the transport with the same people each time • Keep to small groups of people at any one time • Open windows for ventilation • Travel side-by-side or behind other people, rather than facing them • Clean your car between

journeys • Ask the driver and passengers to wear a face covering • Consider seating arrangements to maximise distance between people in the vehicle.

If you travel in a private hire vehicle or taxi you must now wear a face covering (unless exempt because of an underlying health condition).

October 2020

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What you need to know about testing for COVID-19 and when to self-isolate Testing for COVID-19 is an essential part of the effort to keep the virus under control and save lives.

Since the start of the COVID pandemic there have been more than 33,000 tests carried out at the testing centre in Derriford or through test kits sent to people’s homes.

There has now been a total of more than 800 confirmed cases in Plymouth.

You can find out the latest figures on the City Council’s website at plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19.

Some people are currently experiencing difficulties in arranging a test or are being offered tests outside Plymouth.

This is due to a national issue with laboratories not being able to process the volume of tests now coming through.

It is important that testing is prioritised for those who have symptoms (especially if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive) and those who have been told that they need a test.

Here’s a guide on when you need to get a test.

When to get a test

You should get a free test as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of coronavirus.

The symptoms are: • A high temperature • A new, continuous cough • A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste The test needs to be done in the first five days of having symptoms.

You do not need to get a test if you have no symptoms or if you have different symptoms.

However, you may be asked to arrange a test even if you don’t have symptoms. For example, before you need to go

into hospital or if you are contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service or the City Council’s public health team.

Arranging a test

You can choose to take the test: • At a test site near you • With a home test kit To book a test visit the GOV.UK website.

There are currently national issues with the number of tests that can be offered. If you are told that no tests are currently available, the advice is to try again few hours later.

Please do not go to a testing site without an appointment.

You can also call 119 to get a test if you have problems using the internet.

Who you should tell

If you need a test because you have symptoms you need to tell the people that you live with and they will have to self-isolate.

You should also alert the people you’ve been in close contact with (but do not live with) in the 48 hours before your symptoms started. They do not need to self-isolate straight away but should take extra care to follow social distancing advice, wash their hands often and be alert to the symptoms.

You will need to pass their details on to the NHS Test and Trace service, if asked.

Close contact includes face-to-face contact (less than one metre apart) for any length of time (including talking to them or coughing on them) OR being within one to two metres of someone for more than 15 minutes (including travelling together in a small vehicle).

• You live with someone who has symptoms or tested positive • Someone in your support bubble has symptoms or tested positive • You’re told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace • You arrive in the UK from a country with a high

coronavirus risk – see GOV.UK for the latest information.

How to self-isolate

If you need to self-isolate because you are awaiting your test result or you have been asked to do so by the NHS Test and Trace service, you must not leave your home.

You should not: • Go to work, school or public places • Go on public transport or use taxis • Go out to get food or medicine – order it online or by phone, or ask someone to bring it to your home • Have visitors in your home, including friends and family – except for people providing essential care • Go out to exercise

When to self-isolate

You must self-isolate immediately if: • You have any symptoms of coronavirus • You’ve tested positive for coronavirus

Understanding the new ‘rule of six’ New NHS COVID-19 app will help businesses keep us safe You can now receive a £200 fixed penalty if you meet up with a group of more than six people to socialise.

The Government introduced the ‘rule of six’ to help stop the virus spreading and has now doubled the fine for a first offence.

The rule means you should not hold social gatherings of more than six people (including children) in private homes, indoors, outdoors or in places such as bars and cafes.

This has also now been extended to include indoor team sports.

It does not apply to schools or workplaces, weddings, funerals or organised outdoor team sports.

When seeing friends and family you do not live with you should:

Businesses are working hard to make Plymouth COVID-19 safe and sound and those such as pubs, restaurants, hairdressers, cinemas, visitor attractions and libraries have to keep a record of who is there, and when.

• meet in groups of six or less • follow social distancing rules • limit how many different people you see socially over a short period of time • meet people outdoors where practical as this is safer than meeting people indoors because fresh air provides better ventilation Visit the GOV.UK website for the full list of what you can and cannot do.

Businesses in hospitality, leisure and tourism; close-contact services; places of worship and local authority venues such as libraries and children’s centres now need to display QR code posters that work with the new NHS COVID-19 app to record contact details of customers.

This will ensure that NHS Test and Trace teams can get in touch with people who have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.

The app makes it easier for businesses to record who is coming in, as well as for customers who visit those places as they simply have to use their smartphone to scan the code as they go in.

If you don’t use a smartphone, you will need to check in manually when visiting one of these businesses required to display the codes.

To help judge whether a business is adopting COVID-19 safe practices check that: • You can see a COVID Secure poster displayed • You can easily keep a one-metre distance from other people you do not know especially when you are inside • You are asked for your contact details • Extra hand sanitiser is available for you to use • Tables are being cleaned after use

4 October 2020

4 October 2020

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21st century Mayflower launched in Plymouth A new Mayflower has been launched in Plymouth - exactly 400 years to the day that the 102 Pilgrims set sail from the city for a new life in America.

The four nation Mayflower 400 programme marked the day with a naming ceremony for a new vessel, the Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS).

The Mayflower Autonomous Ship was officially named at a Plymouth Gin pouring ceremony by the US Ambassador, Robert Wood Johnson, in the presence of the Dutch Ambassador, Simon Smits, and the First Sea Lord Admiral Tony Radakin.

The future of oceanography, the Mayflower Autonomous Ship will transform ocean science, enabling scientists to gather the data they need to better understand critical issues including global warming, ocean plastic pollution and marine mammal conservation.

The ship has been built by the Plymouthbased marine research organisation ProMare, with IBM acting as technology partner.

Robert Wood Johnson, US Ambassador to the UK, said: “Four centuries after the famous Mayflower voyage across the Atlantic, the US and the UK are once again setting sail from Plymouth to make history.

“American and British scientists have collaborated to launch a new autonomous Mayflower ship powered by the most cuttingedge artificial intelligence ever known.

“As we embark on this new era of marine exploration together, it could not be clearer: in America and Britain, the pioneering spirit of the original Mayflower Pilgrims lives on.”

Simon Smits, Ambassador from the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the UK, commented: “As the Netherlands, we have always been proud of our maritime history and religious tolerance.

“The story of the Mayflower is part of our history. It highlights the longstanding ties we have with the four nations commemorating, but also reflects what we stand for today.

“As a trading nation and partner in development, the Netherlands has a leading role in developing creative, innovative and sustainable solutions to global challenges.

“The launch of the ‘new’ Mayflower is a great example of innovation, both in the field of security and science. Together with the UK, as well as other countries, we work together to contribute to a safer and more sustainable world. Our presence here today, as well as our joint maritime activities in Plymouth are an example of this cooperation.”

Adrian Vinken, chair of Mayflower 400, said: “It’s fitting that this radical pioneering vessel should receive the Mayflower name 400 years to the day that her namesake left on her original world-changing journey. It’s the perfect way to start this year of national and international cultural activities and collaboration.”

The ship launch was a key moment in Plymouth’s Mayflower 400 anniversary programme, the 400 year commemoration of the voyage of The Mayflower. It represented the strength of Plymouth’s marine sector, an engine of growth and regeneration for the city.

The Mayflower 400 programme, which extends into 2021, includes everything from community events through to major exhibitions, performances and plays with the majority being free for people to attend and enjoy.

This anniversary differs from previous editions in that it reflects the whole story around the voyage and the impacts of colonisation in America.

The Wampanoag Native American tribe, responsible for the survival of the Mayflower passengers, have been key partners in the curation of national exhibitions and productions that tell the narrative.

Robert Wood Johnson, US Ambassador to the UK pouring Plymouth Gin at the naming ceremony for the Mayflower Autonomous Ship Photo: Wayne Perry

The Mayflower Autonomous Ship is launched in preparation for the naming ceremony

Powered by the sun and controlled by a robot... the new Mayflower

The new Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS) is a ground-breaking collaboration between a wide range of organisations including ocean research charity ProMare, technology giant IBM and the University of Plymouth.

The solar powered and AI controlled trimaran was two years in the making. The project was first conceived in 2014, since when the partners – many with roots in Plymouth – have been refining designs to ensure it can survive whatever conditions the Atlantic Ocean has to offer.

The 50-foot MAS will undertake six months of sea trials and short trips before setting out on its trans-Atlantic trip to measure ocean health: assessing the impact of climate change, measuring micro-plastic pollution and studying populations of whales and dolphins.

With no human captain or onboard crew, MAS uses the power of AI and automation to traverse the ocean in its quest for data and discovery.

The ship’s AI Captain performs a similar role to a human captain. Assimilating data from a number of sources, it constantly assesses its route, status and mission, and makes decisions about what to do next.

Cameras and computer vision systems scan the horizon for hazards, and streams of meteorological data reveal potentially dangerous storms. Machine learning and automation software ensure that decisions are

Photo: IBM

safe and in-line with collision regulations.

People will be able to follow the ship’s voyages and research online at www.mas400. org. If successful, the one million pound ship will become the largest-ever autonomous vessel to cross the Atlantic, captained by a robot trained

by IBM-designed artificial intelligence, using a million nautical images.

Like the Mayflower in 1620, the new vessel will travel from Plymouth, England to Plymouth, Massachusetts, but on a marine research trip rather than a colony-founding journey. The COVID-19 pandemic has delayed its trip until the spring of 2021.

Andy Stanford-Clark, chief technology officer for IBM UK and Ireland, said the ship’s launch ‘is a very exciting stage of the journey towards

autonomous shipping‚‘ that could pave the way for AI-driven cargo ships, water taxis and research vessels - as well as warships.

Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, commented after the launch of the new vessel: “Mayflower 400 is the chance for us to tell our citys’ story, and our city’s place in the story in one of the most important voyages in history.

“The coronavirus means we’ve had a very different kind of commemoration than the one we had planned, but I am determined that Mayflower 400 produces a lasting and positive legacy - one that renews the bond between the people of Plymouth, the United States and the Wampanoag nation.”

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Weston Mill Recycling Centre open - but only at weekends

Weston Mill Recycling Centre has now reopened - but will only operate at weekends.

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The small facility was closed at the start of the lockdown in March, so that the council could concentrate on making sure its core bin collections could continue.

Opening times will be from 8.30am to 5.30pm every Saturday and Sunday.

The site will be accepting most of the waste it usually does, including bulky waste, garden waste (not soil – see below), scrap metal and most large appliances like cookers, washing machines, tumble dryers and microwaves.

For the time being the following items will NOT be taken: • Soil and hardcore • Fridges and freezers • TVs and small electrical items • Recycling ‘bring bank’ items, such as clothing, cans and glass bottles Weston Mill has never accepted: • Antifreeze, asbestos or chemicals • Car or household batteries • Fluorescent tubes or low energy lamps • Gas bottles • Plasterboard • Cooking or engine oil • Hazardous or commercial waste All of these types of waste can be taken to Chelson Meadow Recycling Centre.

Social distancing measures will be in place and visitors are asked to maintain a two-metre distance from staff at all times.

Staff will not be able to help unload or carry waste, so people should only take items they can handle without assistance.

Please remember there are steps up to the disposal containers at Weston Mill.

No vans or trailers will be allowed, as has always been the case at this site.

A maximum of two adults will be allowed per vehicle to limit the number of people on site and aid social distancing. As always, children must stay in the vehicle at all times while on site.

There will be no special traffic management measures but the number of vehicles allowed onto the site at any one time will be limited and the site may have to close temporarily at busy times, if queues impact the surrounding roads.

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6 October 2020

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Art installation explores the legacy of Mayflower’s voyage

Photos by Wayne Perry

Mayflower Reflections

A virtual reality film exploring the momentous voyage of the Mayflower has been released.

On September 16 1620 the Mayflower set sail from Plymouth carrying 102 Puritan passengers, arriving in Massachusetts 66 days later after crossing the treacherous Atlantic Ocean. The 13 minute film called Mayflower Reflections explores the journey.

Believing that the Church of England was beyond redemption, the Puritans abandoned their country in search of a place where they could pray openly and live without fear of persecution. A similar exodus of people can still be seen today, with refugees giving up their livelihoods to seek sanctuary overseas.

Created by MBD, a Leicesterbased arts organisation specialising in creative digital storytelling, Mayflower Reflections is an immersive experience that asks how far we have come since the ship’s passengers set out their idea of a constitution for a free world.

Charlotte Angharad, business director at MBD said: “Mayflower Reflections is as much about today’s political landscape as it is the early settlements of the Plymouth Colony. The film’s unifying themes analyse the world in which we live, acting as a reminder of the struggles of the

past, an overview of our present, and a chance to imagine a brighter future.”

The film shows how the plights of 17th century pilgrims and contemporary refugees are surprisingly similar. It concludes with excerpts from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, highlighting the importance of acceptance and an individual’s right to seek protection in other countries.

Mayflower Reflections is funded

by Arts Council England and National Lottery Heritage Fund and supported by Mayflower 400 and Pilgrim Roots. It was created with the help of Dr Anna Scott of the University of Lincoln, who provided valuable insight into the journeys made by the Puritans of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire in particular.

Charlotte added: “There’s so much conversation about the Mayflower legacy, but our film instead focuses on why would people get on a boat and risk their lives. We’re still seeing this in the news today, with families fleeing their homes without any guarantee that they’ll get to the other side.

We’re shining a light on these brave souls in the hope that society takes notice and viewers play their part in extending a helping hand.”

Mayflower Reflections is available on You Tube.

A large-scale illuminated art installation in Plymouth Sound is exploring the legacy of the voyage of the Mayflower.

Titled ’Speedwell’ the huge installation has transformed the Mount Batten Breakwater into a public forum for discussion and debate about the impact and legacy of the ship’s journey, colonialism and the ecological state of our planet during the Mayflower 400 commemorations.

Created by local artist collective Still/ Moving, ‘Speedwell’ was funded by Arts Council England and Plymouth Culture as part of Mayflower 400.

Measuring 63m long and 6m high, ‘Speedwell’ uses illuminated signage comprising over 3,700 LED lights to invite viewers to ask complex questions about themselves, the damaged planet and the legacy of the pivotal journeys made by the Mayflower and its companion ship the Speedwell.

It offers multiple readings; constantly shifting between words that are lit up and questioning the historic concept that there ever was a ‘New World’. The artwork will remain illuminated through September, October and November 2020.

The installation is inspired by the events of 1620 when passengers on

board the Mayflower set sail to settle in what they called the ‘New World’, a world already home to indigenous people.

Speedwell, the companion ship intended to sail alongside the Mayflower, was unable to make the journey across the Atlantic. Some of its passengers were therefore forced to return to England and find ways to make peace with the place they sought to escape.

In response, ‘Speedwell’ asks visitors to imagine new worlds of living, caring and dying well together and invites visitors to add their own voices in response to the sculpture in person or online.

Still/Moving artist, Léonie Hampton said: “In response to the Mayflower 400 commemorative programme, Still/Moving wanted to find a way to offer audiences an open invitation to stop, think and talk about the damage in the world.

“The voyage of the Mayflower, Speedwell and what we have learnt in the 400 years since they set sail, give an opportunity to reflect and find better ways to understand the impact of those pivotal voyages and the ongoing colonial process.”

Dr Stephanie Pratt, a descendant of the Dakota (Sioux) Nation, whose guidance ensured the representation of the indigenous peoples of North America in

the work said: “It is especially important to me that Speedwell’s No New Worlds installation acknowledges the presence of the indigenous peoples of North America for some 12,000 years before Europeans came to their lands.

“As one of the most visible public works this autumn, Speedwell’s illuminated messages question what it means to commemorate, and I welcome this addition to the Mayflower celebration in Plymouth.”

Adrian Vinken, chair of Mayflower 400, added: “In exploring all aspects of the Mayflower story, and particularly its passengers being part of the intensive colonisation of America, projects like Speedwell shed light on an important and often neglected fact of history... that people with rich societies and culture had lived there as successful custodians of their natural environment for thousands of years before the Mayflower’s arrival.

“The Speedwell and other Mayflower 400 projects together aim to present a rounded picture of all aspects of the remarkable Mayflower story and its legacies.”

The installation is open to visitors to contribute their comments from 11am to 5pm daily until November 29.

For more information visit www. speedwell.live

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Free courses for adult learners in Plymouth

A range of free courses covering things like digital skills, health and wellbeing and foreign languages are now available for adult learners in Plymouth and surrounding areas.

The courses are being provided by the city’s adult education provider On Course South West, part of Plymouth City Council, as a major boost for adults who want to achieve personal goals, support their wellbeing or develop confidence and abilities in both their personal and working lives.

In total, 55 course options are available delivered online through learning platforms that have been used successfully by On Course South West tutors and learners since March.

From the moment of registration individual learners will be supported to develop a personalised plan, helping them achieve their full potential with an approach that is unique to On Course South West. As well as supporting them as they access their chosen course, further learning opportunities will be identified that will help them achieve their goals as well as helping them to access additional support as needed.

Jo Dennison, service manager for On Course South West said: “2020 has been a roller-coaster year for everyone, and we want to help adults across our local communities deal with the ongoing impact of COVID-19.

“We know that access to free learning will support the city-wide drive to help adults develop skills that will build confidence and meet personal goals. Providing these courses free of charge means there is no financial barrier for anyone who wants to learn and we hope this will encourage both new and previous learners to take advantage of the positive impact learning can have for every individual.”

A focus on skills is a key part of Resurgam, Plymouth’s Economic Recovery Plan and On Course South West’s new offer will feature on Skills Launchpad Plymouth, the city’s onestop virtual service to help local people equip themselves with the skills and confidence they will need to play a part in the city’s future, supporting those who are facing redundancy through the Adult Hub, and offering targeted support for young people through the Youth Hub. Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Transformation Councillor Jon Taylor said: “We are committed to restoring the social and economic vibrancy of our city ensuring that no one is left behind. The skills and training opportunities provided by On Course South West are an essential part of helping people get back on their feet.

“Free access to these courses will ensure adults across our communities can access learning. This is an incredible contribution to our Skills Launchpad initiative - our local emergency response to help the people of Plymouth through the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Any adult (aged 19 or over) interested in taking up this offer can call On Course South West on 01752 660713 or visit www. oncoursesouthwest.co.uk for more information including; course options, requirements and start dates.

Any learner who has recently enrolled for a course that is now free will be able to have a refund or use the free offer to continue their learning journey in the future.

8 October 2020

8 October 2020

@PlymChronicle

Eggbuckland’s new treehouse Plymouth Hoe is to get some TLC

Eggbuckland Vale Primary School has unveiled its brand new Foundation classrooms, celebrating with a grand opening involving staff and pupils.

A huge effort was made over the summer to get the new space ready for the children starting school for the first time in September.

Headteacher Wendy Cording said: “We now have an amazing unit for 60 children, including a mezzanine reading platform called the treehouse.

“We chose the treehouse because we were trying to think creatively about ways to use the space effectively in a way that would entice the children into reading and imaginative activities.

“We are also very driven by promoting wellbeing in our pupils and so we try to create spaces that are very ‘den like’ that make the children feel very safe. And of course every child loves a den!

Ros Owens, assistant headteacher and Early Years lead said: “They have had a similar reaction to the space underneath the treehouse. It has a secret doorway in it and we have put lots of mark making resources in there. It has really drawn the children into using resources that they might not naturally choose if they were just on a normal table.

“The whole setting has been created to maximise the children’s choices, foster independence and let children thrive no matter what their preferred learning styles are. All areas

Plymouth’s world famous Hoe is getting some TLC to make the city’s most important spot look even better.

The new classroom and mezzanine treehouse Inset: Isla cuts the ribbon

are set up for the children to be able to choose the equipment they want and to manage routines themselves.

“Each child has their own celebration frame so when they have done something they are proud of, it goes straight up on the walls. Not all the displays are full when the children arrive in September because we want them to take ownership of the rooms and really feel that they belong there as a little community of children and staff. ” Their very youngest pupil, Isla and a member

of year six, Riley, were proud to cut the ribbons, alongside Katie Johnson, a Key Stage 2 teacher at the school, who was once herself a Foundation pupil there.

Katie said: “I arrived here in Foundation when I was four, but it has changed a bit since then!

I can’t believe how lucky the children are to have these wonderful new classrooms. I wish I could have had a reading treehouse when I was here! It is so fantastic for us to able to foster the love of reading in our youngest pupils in such a wonderful learning environment.”

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A series of small projects that will make a big difference have started as part of the city’s Mayflower preparedness programme.

The first is a dull but necessary resurfacing of the main path, with pothole and edging repairs across other key areas.

But then it gets much more exciting.

Banks of stunning wildflowers look set to appear on the edges of the Hoe as well as the verges along Hoe Road.

A small number of apple trees could be planted and the dead QE2 memorial tree replaced with a Mayflower apple tree and mix of five others to form a small community orchard.

There are other plans in the mix which include: • The garden next to the café could be redesigned to encourage people into the garden rather than just looking at it.

Seating and paths as well as new access is on the cards. The garden will be planted using maritime plants and a blend of New and Old World planting.

• West Hoe Park - landscaping projects on flower beds around the park that are popular with young families. This will include introducing elements of natural play.

• An updated Welcome to Plymouth sign will be installed so that it is visible from land, air and sea. Design concepts have been drawn up and a pre-planning application has already been submitted The Peace Garden has already had some new planting and wooden benches have been repaired thanks to the efforts of the Shekinah Mission’s painting and maintenance team.

The team is working with the council and offers on-the-job training, personal development and work experience to help support people into employment.

Shekinah have also been involved in painting over 250 metres of railings below the Hoe and along the waterfront.

Deputy leader Peter Smith said: “Plymouth loves the Hoe. It’s a breathtaking place. It’s so popular that some of it is a bit tired from overuse, so we’re doing some fixing and mixing in some lovely ideas to make it even more special. It’s also great to see this project provide hands-on experience for people looking to get back into work.”

Diane Mansell, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said: “I know how important the Hoe and the waterfront are to all the businesses in our BID area which is why we have contributed £10,000 towards the work being undertaken. The Hoe is a stunning location and needs to look it’s best. We are happy to support these projects and they are a lovely mix of maintenance work and improving the natural environment projects.”

The council has been working closely with the Hoe Neighbourhood Forum, residents as well as vendors and leaseholders to make sure that nature is given a place to flourish working towards our goal of supporting measures to tackle climate change. The group is supportive of the installation of banks of wildflowers

October 2020

@PlymChronicle

Neil completes his epic Eddystone Lighthouse to the Hoe swim feat A Plymouth man has become the first person to swim from the Eddystone Lighthouse to Plymouth Hoe for more than 30 years - and only the fourth in history.

Neil Brinkworth completed the 14 mile marathon swim on September 8 and wrote his name into the record books as the first person in the 21st century to achieve the feat.

Neil, who is the founder of Plymouth Open Water Swimmers, said: “As a child I use to fantasise about the Eddystone Lighthouse, what it was like out there and my father used to tell me tales of him and his friends jumping off the stump of the old lighthouse into the sea when they use to go diving on the Eddystone reef.

“I loved to hear the stories about the old ship wrecks.

My imagination would be captured and I would dream about swimming to and from the lighthouse. Fast forward about 40 years along with my passion for open water swimming, I realised that my childhood dream could come true with some planning.”

It required a lot of hard work and planning, overcoming many setbacks and disappointments, but Neil eventually managed to get the right people together to support his effort.

Neil started his swim just after 5am and eventually came on shore 11 hours and one minute later after being delayed twice by Naval shipping movements that added at least 1 hour 45 minutes to the swim.

He said: “Climbing out of the water and up the steps raising my hands in the air was emotional and overwhelming. To be greeted my so many friends, family and a TV crew was unbelievable, I was overjoyed.

“The icing on the cake was being congratulated by Sharon Miller (Price) who was the last person to swim the Eddystone back in 1987, before me.

“The swim enabled me to showcase Plymouth as a future hub for long distance open water swimming.”

Neil Brinkworth sets off just after dawn on his epic swim

National award for naval figureheads

The Box’s ambitious project to conserve and restore 14 gigantic Royal Naval ship’s figureheads has won a top national award.

The project triumphed in the Restoration/Conservation Project of the Year category at the Museums + Heritage Awards.

The restoration of the monumental sculptures, the majority of which are on loan from the National Museum of the Royal Navy, took nearly two years to complete.

The project was supported by Interreg through its ‘Maritime, Military and Industrial Atlantic Heritage’ project, Plymouth City Council, National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.

The work to consolidate, conserve, repair and repaint the figureheads was led by The Box’s conservator Steve Conway and involved experts from London’s Orbis Conservation, South Molton’s Hugh Harrison Conservation and Helston’s Mainmast Conservation.

The team used scientific techniques to identify what fillers, fibreglass and paint had been used on the figureheads in the past. This analysis work included the innovative use of sonic tomography – a non-invasive method normally used to detect decay in trees.

Thirteen of the figureheads, all of which were carved between the 1830s and 1860s, are now suspended from the ceiling a striking aerial display at The Box. The largest, Royal William, stands on the floor in the entrance. To find out more about the Royal Naval figureheads go to www. theboxplymouth.com

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One big team.

Right now across University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, it’s St Luke’s who are working in partnership with hospital colleagues to ensure patients nearing the end of their lives get the specialist care they deserve.

Our nurses and doctors look after patients across the wards 365 days a year to provide this vital service, and it’s your support for our charity that helps make this possible.

Thank you for all your support for St Luke’s throughout the pandemic. Encouraging words, kind gestures and generous donations from our big-hearted community have kept us going despite these turbulent times.

They’ll be needed more than ever to help our charity meet the huge challenge of providing our vital service for patients and their families in the months to come, too.

Your kindness counts.

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October 2020

@PlymChronicle

New app is helping cancer patients and their families during COVID-19 A new app is being launched to support cancer patients in Plymouth and the rest of Devon and Cornwall with all the information they need conveniently located on their smart phone.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, cancer patients were left feeling isolated and vulnerable. “We initially created the app to support patients with the right advice and support at the right time whilst undergoing their cancer treatment,” said John McGrane, consultant oncologist at Royal Cornwall Hospital.

“With the challenges of coronavirus we are now able to get up-to-date information directly to patients waiting and worrying at home about their treatment, at a very difficult time for them.”

The app is free to download and provides a complete up-to-date information and reference tool for cancer patients and their families, which guides and supports them through their cancer journey.

It is complete with a whole range of videos, relevant links, cancer resources and contact information all specific to their own NHS Hospital cancer centre.

It can help patients find everything they need to know, from which bus to catch to the hospital right through to support groups in their local areas and what to expect when coming in for treatment.

Miranda Benney, cancer clinical programme manager in Plymouth, said: “Traditionally, we have spent a lot of time, energy and money getting information to patients through leaflets and website pages. Now, we can keep all of that information up to date in

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expect and it became a personalised journey.

“There’s such a lot of information to absorb at the beginning, and it can be impossible to take it all in – and even harder to explain it all to my friends and family.

Rather than them going off and doing their own research about my treatment, the app offers more knowledge about what to expect for them too.

“The app really helped all of us, from understanding treatment and symptoms, to finding where to go and who to contact at my centre.”

The initial version of the app was first launched in Cornwall and has been used by over 2000 cancer patients receiving treatment already. With over 10,000 new cancer patients receiving treatment in Devon and Cornwall every year, take-up is expected to extend right across the South West. one place, patients can access it at their own convenience and it directs them to reliable local advice and support.”

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust is one of five trusts across the South West using the app to keep patients up to date about their treatment and how to contact their cancer nurse specialist.

It also contains a section on COVID-19 which will allow patients to directly access advice about the virus and it also includes advice about side effects that might be experienced on treatment.

Anna Ridley, one of the patients involved in the pilot version in Cornwall said: “Using the MySunrise app made me feel less anxious about what to

Cancer patient Anna Ridley who uses the new app

Join our city’s cast of amazing characters

11

New citywide order to prevent drinkrelated anti-social behaviour on its way A new Public Space Protection Order is being introduced to crackdown on alcohol-related anti-social behaviour across Plymouth.

Covering the entire city, the order makes it an offence for any person to refuse to stop drinking alcohol or hand over any bottles or cans which are believed to contain alcohol, when required to do so by a police officer or authorised officer who, in their view, believes this would assist in preventing further antisocial behaviour, public nuisance or disorder.

The order replaces smaller PSPOs currently in place in Stonehouse, the city centre, Devonport, North Hill, Mutley, Tothill Park and Freedom Fields and comes into effect from October 20.

Those found in breach of the order will be placed on the anti-social behaviour escalation process, a system that ensures not only that enforcement is considered for repeat offenders, but also looks at what support can be offered by services to address any underlying issues.

The PSPO is not a blanket alcohol ban. It is entirely focussed on anti-social behaviour, not picnics in the park.

It is hoped that the new PSPO will provide a consistent approach across the city, leaving no room for confusion over boundaries or prohibitions.

A public consultation showed that 83.7 per cent of residents were in agreement that a citywide PSPO would be of benefit to the city.

Part of the Reopening High Street Safely Fund, funded by

12 October 2020

12 October 2020

Together on a voyage of discovery for Leigham Primary School pupils Pupils at Leigham Primary School, part of Connect Academy Trust, have taken a trip back in time to learn about one of the most significant events in their city’s history - the voyage of The Mayflower.

Throughout the school, pupils as young as four years old have learnt about the historic event through a variety of engaging activities such as boat-designing, boat-building, role-play Pupils learned and through interacting about the with specialist visitors.

Wampanoag Native Americans All of the children’s work will be added to a display - a replica of The Mayflower - in the school’s library, once completed.

Andrew Swainson, headteacher at Leigham, said: “The children have really been engaged with this learning. It has been a perfect opportunity to link learning across all year groups who have come back together as a whole school this term.

“We have utilised the outdoor areas and

Pupils enjoyed outdoor lessons as part of the voyage of discovery

encouraged the children to explore and be inquisitive about their city’s past. Teachers have also encouraged children to continue their learning about The Mayflower at home so that families can work together to learn about Plymouth’s history.”

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Gables Dogs and Cats Home have been overwhelmed with response after appealing for help for a kitten with a significant physical deformity – his back feet are bent backwards.

Without treatment he is unlikely to ever be able to walk properly and experience a good quality of life. As a genuine noneuthanasia charity they will not give up on the little kitten and are determined to give him a chance at survival.

They have affectionately named him Happy Feet, as they are optimistic that with their care and support he will be able to heal over time and live as normal a life as possible.

The charity took 10-day-old Happy Feet to their vets with

great trepidation, fearing the worst. After an examination, and knowing that Gables won’t give up on any animal, the vet gave them the positive news that it may be possible to fix the kitten’s feet with specialist physio as the issue appears to be musclerelated.

Happy Feet is now receiving gentle physio three times a day.

Gables are hopeful that over time he will be able to walk.

The charity reached out to itssupporters for any help they might be able to give towards the cost of Happy Feet’s ongoing care and veterinary support, estimated at around £1000.

Following the appeal for help, the charity received more than 200 donations totalling over £3,500!

@PlymChronicle

Reopening dates confirmed for Plymouth’s libraries All of Plymouth’s libraries will be open to customers again in the coming weeks.

People have been able to browse the shelves and book PCs again since September 14 at Plymstock, Southway and St Budeaux Library, which were previously only open for ‘Select and Collect’ pick-ups.

Estover and Plympton libraries reopened their doors on September 21, followed by Devonport and Efford libraries during the week beginning September 28. The remaining libraries – Crownhill, North Prospect and Peverell – will reopen during the week beginning October 12.

Central Library is now also open on Saturdays.

Deputy Council Leader Pete Smith said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming customers back into all of our libraries again – we know how valued our libraries are and how much they have been missed. It’s been great to see how well our online library services have been used, both during lockdown and afterwards.

“Last week we issued 178 per cent more eBooks and audiobooks compared to the same week in 2019 – and the number of eMagazines and eComics went up by a whopping 301 per cent. Our schools library service also issued far more eBooks and audiobooks this summer holiday than last year.

“And social media activities led by our staff have been hugely popular – these have included online book reviews, online Rhymetimes and Storytimes, ‘what I’m reading’ and ‘how to’ videos and much more.

“Since the Government announced that libraries could reopen we have been working hard to reintroduce services in a safe way for our customers and staff, using the national guidance in place. It’s important we do this is in a planned, controlled way so that we can quickly respond to any issues and keep everyone safe.

“We’re really pleased that, here in Plymouth, every library will soon be open for public browsing and we’re grateful to customers for bearing with us while we’ve been working to put these arrangements in place.”

Extra measures will be in place at all libraries to keep customers safe, including limits on the number of people allowed in at any one time, social distancing, oneway systems and self-service machines for checking items out. Customers will be asked to wear a face covering inside the library (unless exempt) and use the hand sanitiser provided.

Additional cleansing will be carried out and returned books will be put into quarantine for 72 hours before they are restocked and reissued.

Revised opening hours will apply at all libraries – full details are as follows: Plympton Library open on Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am to 4pm Estover Library open on Tuesdays, 10am to 4pm Central Library open from Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm Devonport Library open Wednesdays and Fridays, 10am to 4pm Efford Library open on Mondays, 10am to 4pm St Budeaux Library open on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays only, 10am to 4pm Plymstock Library open on Tuesdays and Thursdays only, 10am to 5pm Southway Library open on Mondays and Thursdays only, 10am to 5pm Week beginning October 12 Crownhill Library open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am to 4pm North Prospect Library open on Thursdays, 10am to 4pm Peverell Library open on Tuesdays and Fridays, 10am to 4pm

October 2020

@PlymChronicle

13

Ministerial visit for veterans learning vital construction skills at Sherford Plymouth Moor View MP Johnny Mercer has praised the work of a charity which is helping Armed Forces veterans to learn new skills in the construction industry.

Mr Mercer, who is Minister for Defence People and Veterans, made a visit to the new Sherford Skills Training Centre, to meet the 13 veterans taking part in the Building Heroes course to find out more about their experiences and the work of the charity.

The fully funded construction skills course is being delivered thanks to a partnership between the Sherford Skills Training Scheme, Building Heroes and Vistry Partnerships, which is part of the Vistry Group, and a member of the Sherford Consortium - the awardwinning housebuilders responsible for Sherford’s development.

Building Heroes is a charity that supports veterans, service leavers and direct family members - and offers practical skills courses for veterans and service leavers interested in a career in construction. Delivering accredited courses across the country with further education colleges and specialist training providers, this is its first course in Plymouth.

Priority has been given to veterans out of work or early service leavers not yet in receipt of resettlement benefits, to provide a helping hand into a new career. During the five-week programme, the team of learners will be tutored - by specialist provider Train4All - in various areas of construction and safety, leaving with Level 1 Construction Skills and Health and Safety qualifications.

The charity reports that there are around 120,000 unemployed military veterans of working age in Britain today. Stark figures also reveal the UK construction industry is facing a 230,000-person skills shortage – the highest in two decades. With Plymouth known for its

up to

Johnny Mercer MP chatting with veterans at the Sherford Skills Training Centre

sizeable military population it is an especially appropriate location for veterans to be given a new opportunity.

Mr Mercer visited the veterans at Sherford’s dedicated onsite training facility.

The revolutionary £370,000 Skills Training Centre was developed to address and reduce the region’s skills challenge. It engages military veterans, apprentices, local contractors and those working at Sherford, boosting manual skills by providing training and experience across numerous trades.

The MP said: “We have a proud military past and large population of service personnel in Plymouth, which makes it especially vital for us to do all we can to support and provide for our veterans. The work of the team at Sherford and Building Heroes shows what collaboration and commitment can achieve. This course is a fantastic example of leaders in construction, education and the charitable sector uniting in the best interests of our veteran community – and I hope to see more of this across the UK.” Bradley Davison, managing director of Vistry Partnerships South West, part of the Sherford Consortium, said: “We are pleased to support this exceptional charity in the work they do. We have no doubt the veterans taking part will gain an array of useful skills that will help them pursue a rewarding career in construction.

“We have an ongoing commitment at Sherford and throughout the South West to support skills and training, which we believe will have a

positive impact on the region, construction sector, and the lives of the learners.”

Steven Ricketts, Sherford Skills Training Scheme coordinator, added: “Around 60% of those we teach are former members of the Armed Forces and it is a privilege to provide training and practical experience to help them develop professionally. The intention of the scheme we run here is to create a lasting legacy by improving the region’s economic growth and employment landscape.”

Karen Jefford, chief operations officer, Building Heroes, said: “The charity started in 2013 and our provision has doubled each year over the last three years, such is the appetite and need to support military veterans into employment in the building trades. Our aim is to tackle unemployment amongst those who have kept us safe by offering them a seamless transition to a new career in construction.”

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£250 a POP

Festival of POP+ 2020

Come and join us for this year’s Festival of POP+ in the first week of October where you can take part in talks, workshops and training sessions. We have lined up a variety of community-interest sessions including guidance on writing funding applications; the value of communities and what we can do to make them stronger in a world overshadowed by the coronavirus. We will also be holding our AGM on Monday the 5th of October.

Sign up for our virtual festival at www.bit.ly/popagm2020

Octopus creates new ‘arm’ for networks

In the latest of its innovative attempts to create stronger and more-resilient neighbourhoods, Plymouth Octopus Project (POP+) with local groups has created a ‘virtual’ notice board to carry local messages to local people.

Operating via a simple text, it has been set up with unique numbers to serve residents, who sign up for the service (free-of-charge), in different areas of the city. The ‘notice board’ extends the work of the Neighbourhood Care Networks which have been helping residents support each other since the start of the coronavirus outbreak. Now, this latest community connection will let people know, via occasional simple text messages, of events happening locally, such as, residents’ meetings; cake sales and litter picks.

As well as helping to boost attendance, the text service can also be used to appeal for local people to get involved organising and helping at these events. And, as a greater number of people volunteer, so another layer of trust and inclusion strengthen our communities.

The service, which has already been launched in Stoke, is being rolled out across the city in conjunction with Our Plymouth.

Wherever you are in the city please text 07411 949 742 after which you’ll be contacted by someone from POP+ or someone from your neighbourhood who will be delighted to speak with you.

Churches & Faith communities; Sports’ Groups; Social Clubs; Community Leaders; Residents’ Associations; Youth Groups; Neighbourhood Watch & Timebanks

Your Neighbourhood Needs You!

Over the last few months, we have seen an amazing strength within our communities and a power that comes from being better connected to others locally.

If you are part of a local organisation, be it a sports club, community group or neighbourhood watch, you might consider joining POP+ - membership is free - and taking advantage of all that we offer. We have more than three hundred members representing groups and organisations from the voluntary and community sector of all shapes and sizes.

We want to make sure that we are ready for another lockdown (should the need arise) and/or other emergencies and that, in the meantime, we are working with you to make Plymouth even better connected.

POP+ and your neighbourhood needs you.

Email us on info@plymouthoctopus.org or call Plymouth 395131.

We can chat about the ways in which we can support you to make a greater difference to more people.

Has Covid left your community project or organisation a bit short? Do you need a small pot of cash to enable you to get back on your feet? Or have you already spent some of your financial resources during lockdown providing support to people affected by the virus or to keep you afloat?

Good news: a fast and straightforward fund from POP+ of up to £250 is available now.

Based on its research with the voluntary and community sector since March, POP+ has listened to, and heard, the need for urgent unrestricted core funding.

As Matt Bell, the CEO of POP+ says, making it accessible and immediate is the key; “We know that many community groups need some money to help them get them back on their feet. We’ve set this fund up for our members to access rapidly; to spend it where they know it’s needed and, unlike other funding, without any red tape.”

So long as you’re a member of POP+, with a turnover of less than £500,000 and the money has been spent (or will be spent) on something that has either a social or environmental benefit you are likely to qualify for the money.

To find out more, follow the link... www.plymouthoctopus.org/250-a-pop POP+ is free to join. If you would like to become a member or would like more information about ‘£250 a POP’ then get in touch: info@plymouthoctopus.org

Doing it together

POP+ has also launched a second fund this month for its members called The Collectives Fund which promotes collaboration rather than competition. With up to £3000 available, POP+ is encouraging applications from people willing to try new ways of working together and of helping other projects – as well as their own - succeed.

For more information ... www.plymouthoctopus.org/pop-collectives Those applying for the Collectives Fund will be required to make use of the digital platforms Open Collective www.opencollective.com and Slack www.slack.com but, fear not, POP+ and Our Plymouth are setting up some ‘tech training’ free-of-charge, to ensure your digital journey isn’t hampered by inexperience. Put your name down here… bit.ly/poptechtues And you can find more information about the Collectives Fund elsewhere in this issue of The Chronicle.

Tech Tuesdays – open to all

Let our digital champions guide you through Open Collective; Slack; Zoom; Microsoft Teams & other platforms Learn how to navigate the digital highway through our Play & Learn sessions Every fortnight from Tuesday the 15th of September between 1&2pm Join our digital crusade ... https://bit.ly/poptechtues

Emergency dog-walker John from Keyham leading the charge during lockdown

Take a POP at our new funds

October 2020

@PlymChronicle

Aquarium comes to life for Widey Court Children at Widey Court Primary School were treated to a virtual tour of the National Marine Aquarium using state of the art technology and human interaction.

The school is part of Connect Academy Trust which has just launched the UK’s first Ocean Conservation curriculum in partnership with the National Marine Aquarium and other Plymouthbased scientific partners.

Year 4 teacher at Widey Court Mrs Jenny Jones said: “Since we can’t go on school trips, we were delighted to invite Stu Higgs from the Aquarium into our school to lead the tour. At the Aquarium we had Karen Willcocks, who led the tour and live streamed the feed.

“The children were amazed by the experience. The class were largely familiar with the aquarium and were fascinated to be guided through it on a large screen with someone talking directly to the class.

“The interaction was superb and they were able to return to tanks to see various animals such as Noodle the octopus when he explored his tanksomething that isn’t possible on a whole class trip so easily.

“Along with Noodle the octopus, seeing Friday the green turtle jellyfish, sharks and a range of fish brought the aquarium into the classroom and made follow up work exciting because the trip had been within the class.

“It was incredible for the children to all get the same view of animals that were being discussed and to be in an environment where they were all focused and listening without any other distractions while key information was shared,” added Jenny.

Police appeal for witnesses after incident in Ernesettle Police are appealing for witnesses over an alleged attempt to cause grievous bodily harm in the Ernesettle area of Plymouth.

Officers are investigating an incident in which a man aged in his 50s sustained minor injuries in a collision with a car in Lakeside Drive at around 11.20am on Sunday September 27.

A 56-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

He has been released on police bail until October 24.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, or email 101@dc.police.uk, quoting crime reference CR/081481/20.

Stu Higgs and Karen Willcocks from the Aquarium presented to the pupils at Widey Court Primary School

New rules to reduce dog fouling are approved It will be an offence to be out with a dog in Plymouth without means to pick up after it from October 20.

The rule, which is part of a new Public Space Protection Order, has been given the green light after resident feedback in a public consolation was in favour of the move.

Another change will see the Milehouse Park & Ride car park and green areas in front of the Life Centre, become a dogs on lead zone.

The new PSPO, which was consulted upon in

July this year, is an update to the previous order designed to control dogs and prevent dog fouling.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: “The dog owners of Plymouth have spoken. Like us, they are fed up of the small minority of people who don’t pick up after their dog and they want something done about it.”

Overall there were nearly 1,500 responses to the three week consultation. Of the 1,454 people that responded, 81.3 per cent said that they owned a

dog. The proposal for dog owners to carry means to pick up after their dog was met with 95.1 per cent approval.

Under the new rules, if a dog owner is approached by an officer, they may be asked if they have means to pick up after their dog. If they cannot produce such means, a fixed penalty notice can be issued.

Full results of the public consultation can be found here: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ dogcontrolconsultation Advertorial

New treatment at Derriford will benefit whole of South West A new machine for treating renal and ureteric stones, based at Derriford Hospital will benefit hundreds of patients across Devon and Cornwall.

The first of its kind, the new fixed site lithotripter supports outpatient procedures for complex stones, revolutionising how stones are treated across the South West.

Lithotripsy is a technique for treating stones in the kidney and ureter that does not require surgery. Instead, high energy shock waves which are applied via the skin, pass through the body and break the stones into pieces as small as grains of sand. Because of their small size, these pieces can pass from the body naturally.

Consultant urologist at University Hospitals Plymouth, Richard Pearcy said: “Lithotripsy has been around for a number of years, however the original models required a water bath and for the patient to be under general anaesthetic.

Subsequent models were made mobile and were much lighter and easier to use, but that was a trade off with less effectivity in stone break up. The latest machine doesn’t require general anaesthetic, just ordinary pain relief but has good effectiveness in breaking the stone.”

The fixed site lithotripter now delivers treatment five days a week. More than 40 patients have been treated during the first six weeks, including the treatment of 45 stones, of which 19 stones have completely passed or only have small fragments remaining.

“The intention for the machine based at is for it to be made fully available to other hospitals throughout the South West,” said Richard. “This should reduce the ureteroscopy rate across these hospitals, simplifying the treatment of stones and resulting in fewer patients being admitted to hospital for acute care.”

Patient, Muhedin Marraqu, who has just completed his course of treatment said: “As soon as I was done I was back to normal. As long as you drink plenty of fluids you don’t have any pain.”

15

Is your vehicle worth more than you think?

It is well documented that our buying habits have changed in 2020 but relatively little has been publicised about the state of the vehicle market post lockdown. As with most industries it does look a little different due to the impact of Covid-19, but you are likely to be pleasantly surprised to know of some of the factors in the current market.

Your vehicle might be worth more than you think Used vehicles are proving very popular at the moment. People are still looking to change their vehicle for the same reasons as in any other year; perhaps they need a larger vehicle for their growing family or they want to get a different type of car to support a change of lifestyle.

However a lot of people are being more careful than usual with their buying decisions and 2020 has meant many have less to spend than in other years. The used

vehicle market is therefore the perfect place to look and as a result the used vehicle stock is in high demand. So much so that stock is becoming quite scarce with some dealers and part-exchange prices are actually going up – your vehicle might be worth more than you think.

Did you know you can get a valuation for your vehicle in three easy steps at Vospers. com? Even if you don’t want to buy a vehicle, Vospers are looking for stock.

You could get a new vehicle for less New vehicles are by their nature a more expensive purchase and are recovering from lockdown well but with a lot of competition for a smaller market demand right now – as not everyone is yet venturing out or making large financial purchases – there are incredible offers from manufactures and dealers on new vehicles.

The new 70 plate launch from 1st September is expected to drive demand as many new vehicle owners are in a cycle and

will be interested in renewing.

Vospers dealerships are holding events throughout the Autumn as they look to pass on manufacturer savings to customers and achieve ambitious recovery targets.

This means now could be the perfect time to get a great deal on a new vehicle.

Buying a vehicle is safe Vospers are open with all their dealerships and have taken government advice to put in measures to ensure their staff and all customers stay safe.

They have introduced physical distancing, installed zonal floor markings, and issued staff with protective equipment. When you visit their dealerships you will discover some changes to the way the dealerships and staff look, but they have ensured their high level of customer service remains. Leaving you to focus on buying the right vehicle to suit you.

For more information on getting your vehicle valued, new vehicle offers or how Vospers are keeping their customers safe visit vospers.com or call 01752 636363

Looking to sell your vehicle?

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16 October 2020

16 October 2020

Businesses urged to prepare for COVID-19 test and trace app

Super summer for Royal William Yard

@PlymChronicle

Plymouth businesses are being urged to download QR code posters that work with the new NHS Test and Trace app in time to meet new Government regulations.

Businesses and venues have had to display a unique QR code from Thursday September 24 when the new app was launched.

The posters make it easier for firms to meet their legal duty to collect contact details of people using their premises so they can be contacted in the event of a coronavirus outbreak.

The posters have to be displayed at entrances and customers just have to scan the code with their smart phones to check in.

The phone app and QR code poster create a digital record that they visited that venue at that time.

Ruth Harrell, director of Public Health for Plymouth, said: “The new NHS app has been designed to make the process of data collection easier for both the customer and the business.

Customers simply have to scan a QR code and in the unfortunate event that a person later tests positive for COVID-19, the system will use the app to warn others that they may have been in contact with an infected person.

“The system will provide them with information on where to seek help. And although it won’t name the venue, nor the person infected, it will help people to know when to self-isolate and protect others from the virus.

“With cases on the rise across Plymouth, we are keen that everyone takes part and remembers this virus threat is far from over.

We still need to maintain good hygiene, with hand washing, face covering and keeping two m apart. In some situations, people can forget, but this is a very real issue and we want to bring the numbers down.”

Premises that need to collect data are: • hospitality, including pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés, • tourism and leisure, including hotels, museums, cinemas, zoos and theme parks • close contact services, including hairdressers, barbershops and tailors • facilities provided by local authorities, including town halls and civic centres for events, community centres, libraries and children’s centres • places of worship, including use for events and other community activities It does not apply to those premises where a service is supplied and goods are taken off site immediately, such as a food and drink outlet providing a takeaway.

Businesses and venues should visit www.gov. uk/create-coronavirus-qr-poster to create a QR code.

POLICE APPEAL AFTER CAR FIRE

Police are appealing for information following reports of arson in Plymouth.

The fire service were called to Cheriton close, West Park, at around 2.35am on Monday August 31 following reports of a vehicle fire.

Investigating officer, PC Renshaw said: “Enquires have been ongoing and the cause of the fire is believed to be arson.

“I’m keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of Ringmore Way, Cheriton Close and Crownhill Road between 2.25am and 2.45am on 31 August.

“I’m also keen to hear from anyone who was driving the area at the time and may have dash cam footage or witnessed anything that may be relevant.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident and anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting CR/072746/20.

Restaurants and accommodation providers at Royal William Yard have reported bumper bookings and record levels of trade this summer.

Virtual visitors also contributed to the boom, with figures from the Royal William Yard website showing visits to its ‘stay’ page up by over 120% in July and August compared to 2019. The whole website saw a leap in traffic to almost 60,000 visits in August – almost twice the hits it received in the same period last year. And the new ‘reopening’ section to support visitors to plan their visit back to the Yard had over 6,000 clicks within a few weeks of launching.

Guests on the ground were plentiful too, with locals enjoying holiday-athome daytrips as well as travelling tourists. Seco Lounge reported its busiest ever summer in the decade it has been at Royal William Yard. Bistrot Pierre reported a busy and buoyant period, with regulars booking up tables weekly throughout August. And Royal William Yard Apartments reported 100% occupancy for July and August bookings for its serviced apartments.

The Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme made a dramatic difference throughout August, ensuring tables were full and phones ringing off the hook.

While the scheme has ended, many of the Yard’s eateries have continued their own promotions, with Wildwood extending the offer into September and beyond for those who sign up online.

Prezzo is offering two courses for £10 from Monday-Wednesday. Bistrot Pierre is giving 50% off dishes from Monday through to Wednesday in September.

Among guests to the region this summer, numerous famous faces were spotted, including at Royal William Yard. Celebrity chef Aldo Zilli took part in a ‘cook your catch’ fishing trip and dining experience with The Hook & Line; had a wine tasting at Le Vignoble; and his children tried standup paddle boarding with South West SUP. Extreme adventurer Jordan Wylie took a break from a world record attempt to circumnavigate Great Britain by paddleboard, stopping for a vegan feast and beer at Steel Brew Co. And professional sailor, Conrad

Humphreys berthed and sailed his boat – as featured on Channel 4 series ‘Mutiny’ – from the marina.

Hailey Cattle, regional marketing manager for Urban Splash, said: “This summer has far surpassed expectations. It was a pleasure to welcome everyone and the businesses here have worked tirelessly to give everyone the safe trip and happy memories they deserve after a tough time.

With plenty going on at the Yard in the months ahead and our vibrant community up and running once again, it’s a great time to plan a safe staycation.”

An Instagram post from Seco Lounge said: “And that’s a wrap on summer 2020 at Seco!

Officially our biggest summer in the 10 years we’ve been open! Record numbers of you came to visit us for discounted food in the midst of a global pandemic this month. Not quite how we expected the year to go.

“We’d love to thank all of our regulars (and newcomers!) for returning to us, politely adhering to social distancing guidelines and being patient with us as we did our best to keep you all safe and fed with fantastic food.”

Gas pipe upgrade work to start in Plymouth

Wales & West Utilities has started essential gas works in the Old Woodlands Road area of Plymouth.

The £350,000 gas pipe upgrade programme work is essential t keep the gas flowing to heat homes and power businesses so local people are kept safe and warm for generations to come.

It involves upgrading nearly 1,800 metres of gas pipes and will be complete by the end of November. In planning the work, Wales & West Utilities has liaised closely with Plymouth City Council and the work will be completed in phases.

This involves: Phase 1 – where an eastbound road closure along Old Woodlands Road and Rothesay Gardens will be in place. All traffic will enter from Crownhill Road, and travel westbound only, before re-joining Crownhill at the junction of Dumfries Avenue or Rothesay Gardens/Kirkwall Road. These measures will be in place from October 5 to November 27.

Phase 2 – where between October 19 and November 5, an eastbound lane closure will be in place along Crownhill Road from Honicknowle Services to the junction with Old Woodlands Road. Three-way traffic management will be used between October 19 and November 5.

Phase 3 – where a westbound directional road closure along Dumfries Avenue will be in place from November 4 to 27.

Wales & West Utilities programme controller Roxanne Whittaker, who is project managing the work said: “We know that working on roads like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future.

“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Plymouth. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it – now more than ever.

“Our engineers are following all hygiene and social distancing guidelines and we would respectfully ask that you keep a 2m

distance if passing our work site.

“As the UK recovers from coronavirus, we’ll be working hard to keep the gas flowing safely today and to prepare the gas network to transport green gases, like biomethane and hydrogen, so it can play its part delivering green, sustainable energy in the future.”

Wales & West Utilities teams working in local communities will be following clear guidelines to keep themselves and customers safe. Measures will include: • Before entering customer’s homes, engineers will wash their hands with soap and water • While in customer’s homes, they’ll wear face coverings and eye protection, and may ask anyone else in the house to stand in another room while they work • While working in the street, they’ll social distance as far as possible, and would urge local people who may be passing to keep 2m away from work sites Wales & West Utilities Customer Service Team will take calls from residents if they have any questions about the work. Contact can be made via freephone 0800 912 2999 or enquiries@wwwutilities.co.uk.

Alternatively, contact Twitter @WWUtilities or Facebook.com/WWUtilities.

FOOT SOLUTIONS CUSTOMERS ENJOY PAIN FREE COMFORT IN ALL WALKS OF LIFE The following Foot Solutions Plymouth customers were given a free foot assessment before being recommended the products that have made significant improvements to their health.

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Numbness, pain in balls of feet, hip and back affecting work Safety work boots and custom arch supports “It was immediately better, my posture changed as well as my walk. Over a short time my back pain almost disappeared too, and I was able to stop taking painkillers. My work boots feel like I’m wearing slippers, I can work all day now and I have totally regained control when I’m on my boat. I have a new frame of mind, I just want to go for it again.”

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“They fitted perfectly and the improvement was immediate.

I had always bought cheap shoes but this has made me realise the big improvements that are possible from investing a little time and money into my feet. It’s been a light bulb moment for me!”

“The care I received was unbelievable, and the results were too. I literally limped into the store almost in tears, and I skipped out! I am getting better all the time and as I continue to get better and have many pain free days, I’d say it’s worth every penny!”

“I have to say it’s been more than worth it. These shoes and inserts make an enormous difference – I could not do what I am doing without them.

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COMMUNITY

18 October 2020

@PlymChronicle

JOB SHOP Big sales boost for Honicknowle business Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop

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

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

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

Contact, Vic Hibbert, YMCA Plymouth on 01752 761004 or vic.h@ymcaplymouth.org.uk HEAD SPACE VOLUNTEER Head Space offers an out-of-hours service for people who consider that they are approaching a mental health crisis. The service aims to provide a non-clinical setting with a safe, calm and structured environment, where individuals can go to access peer support. Volunteers will work alongside staff to provide support in both group and 1:1 settings. We provide comprehensive training and support, and the opportunity to join a successful and likeminded team. All travel costs are covered and you will be able to develop new skills and experiences and have fun whilst helping make a difference To get involved contact us for an initial discussion T: 01752 563492 or visit www.colebrooksw.org/head-space/ HELP AT HOME COMMUNITY SUPPORT ASSISTANTS Age UK Plymouth are recruiting Help at Home Community Support Assistants for domestic tasks/ shopping for clients. This is a zero hour contract at national minimum wage, mileage is paid. Please visit www.ageukplymouth.org.uk for full details and to complete an application form. Alternatively call on 01752 256020 for further details.

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

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

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

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

Transport an advantage, own phone number essential.

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

A Plymouth-based online builders merchants has seen a big boost in business since investing in new artificial intelligence technology to provide personalised recommendations to customers.

with the solution, proving that customers are using and benefiting from it. For a company that is devoted to providing an excellent customer experience, it’s especially satisfying to see the onsite personalisation solution helping people to find what they need for their projects more easily.”

As certain building or DIY projects require a Earlier this year, CMOStores.com, which employs more than 100 people at its Plymouth HQ at Burrington particular suite of products, the solution can not only make the process of searching for the right Business Park in Honicknowle, products much simpler, it can also partnered with artificial intelligence remind users of key associated pioneer Peak to take its digital products they might have forgotten merchant offering to the next level by to add to their basket - ultimately creating hyper-personalised product allowing DIYers and tradespeople to recommendations at the point of sale get to work more quickly and with across its six online web stores. less hassle. The intelligent new onsite Commenting on the success of personalisation solution combines the new AI solution, Sue Packer, innovative technology with CMO’s chief financial officer at CMOStores. award-winning expertise to deliver com said: “Not only have sales of tailored recommendations, offering a associated products increased since real benefit to customers. we implemented the AI technology, The success of the new solution is but over a fifth of all transactions on Sue Packer a further boost to the rapidly-growing the sites have involved an interaction

e-commerce company, which has also seen its market share increase this summer as more homeowners shifted to online purchasing, and demand for construction products rose thanks to a nationwide trend for DIY projects during lockdown.

Sue continued: “As a business, we’re always searching for innovations that will help us to offer the right product to the right person at the right price – exactly when they need it, and our agile business model allows us to quickly adapt and implement new technologies to achieve this.

“Peak’s onsite personalisation solution has vastly improved our ability to connect customers with the products they need to complete their projects, and we’re very proud of the successes it has achieved so far.”

“As well as the increase in revenue, we’re also seeing that over a fifth of all transactions through the superstores have involved an interaction with the new solution, which proves that a significant proportion of our customers are using and benefiting from the AI-driven recommendations.”

For more information visit www.cmostores.com

A troublesome telly addict has been made to pay a high price for a series of noise offences.

Only a few days afterwards, further complaints were raised and an out of hours enforcement officer was called the complainant’s address. There they heard noise thought to be coming from a TV in two of the bedrooms determined to be loud enough to prevent sleep.

In February, officers were called out again and just as before, heard noise from a television emanating into the neighbour’s property.

Finally in March, officers again attended the complainant’s address. This time music was heard through the party wall, which gave way to noise from a television soon afterwards.

McTighe was handed a fine of £250 to cover all three

breaches, ordered to pay legal costs of £250 and a victim surcharge of £32.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: “Everyone has the right to live in peace and so I hope that this verdict delivers some kind of justice to this gent’s neighbours.

“Hopefully this case will show that we’re not afraid to act over noise issues; we will pursue nuisance neighbours and we will prosecute them.”

Residents having issues with noisy neighbours can always get help from the council. More detail are available here: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ environmentandpollution/noise

Moortec provides monitors and sensors for silicon chips, helping to increase their reliability and performance.

Chess Dynamics offers surveillance, tracking and gunfire control technology to naval, land and commercial customers.

Moortec is also shortlisted for two other awards: Best Workplace Tech Award and Best Scale-up Award, alongside fellow PSP tenant Rowe IT who provide software engineering, solution architecture and systems integration to the public and private sectors.

BMT Defence, which provides engineering and scientific services to industry, commerce, policymakers, regulators and public sector operators, has been shortlisted for the Tech Research Award.

Sustainability is a key driver for a number of

Plymouth Science Park tenants.

Frontier Technical is shortlisted for the Sustainable Tech Award for their work on a new approach to sustainable floating energy systems, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and providing energy access for coastal communities across the world.

Israeli medical-technology start-up Eye Control which recently expanded to Plymouth Science Park, uses artificial intelligence-powered eye-tracking and technology to help locked-in and ventilated patients communicate through eye movements, has been shortlisted for the Health Tech Award.

Around a 1000 people work in the 95 companies based on the Plymouth Science Park campus, making use of the world-class office, laboratory and research facilities.

Noisy neighbour ordered to pay over £500 Scott McTighe, 47, of Hilton Avenue in Manadon, appeared at Plymouth Magistrates Court and was ordered to pay £532 after pleading guilty to three breaches of a previous noise abatement notice.

The court heard how McTighe was issued with a noise abatement notice in August 2018 following an investigation into complaints of noise emanating from his property.

Then, in January 2020, further complains began to emerge and a reminder of the notice was sent to McTighe.

Plymouth Science Park firms in line for prestigious awards Six companies at Plymouth Science Park in Derriford have been shortlisted for the annual Tech South West Awards.

More than 145 entries were received for the prestigious event, which showcases the best innovation and talent across the region’s tech sector.

Plymouth Science Park has more finalists than any other science park in the region.

Ian McFadzen, chief executive at Plymouth Science Park, said: “We are delighted to see Plymouth Science Park tenants dominating the shortlist, with six talented tenant companies being shortlisted for six awards across a range of categories from International Success through to the Sustainability and Health Tech Awards.”

Moortec and Chess Dynamics are shortlisted for the International Success Award.

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October 2020

@PlymChronicle

The community of Ernesettle is leading the NSPCC’s flagship Together for Childhood programme with organisations across Plymouth working with local residents to develop and test ways to best protect children. The Together for Childhood team provide the latest monthly update on its work to keep children safe from sexual abuse.

The team have recently been focussing on equality and diversity as part of its Together for Childhood work, and we want to hear from you!

We know that if we are going to prevent child sexual abuse, then we are going to need to work with and engage with the whole population of Ernesettle and wider Plymouth.

We are committed to equality and diversity and are checking how our work reaches the community in Ernesettle as well as communities of interest.

So far, the Together for Childhood partnership has over 35 different organisations involved such as Friends and Families of Disabled Children, Ernesettle Primary school and Solomon’s Porch who have all helped us reach different parts of our diverse community.

Some of the ways we have been getting out into different parts of the community have been through groups such as Transforming Plymouth Together, who allowed us to deliver PANTS messages through food bank deliveries.

We have also attended RESPECT festival twice but unfortunately our plans to attend this year and to join in at PRIDE had to be cancelled because of coronavirus.

The wonderful Tea and Toast group have also been hugely informative in helping us understand the attitudes and knowledge of older community members.

While this work has meant we have been able to access and work alongside a wide range of people, we want to and know we need to do more to learn from communities of interest.

NSPCC development and impact manager for

Warning about bogus waste collectors Householders in Plymouth have been warned about bogus green waste collectors.

The Environment Agency and its partners have urged people not to be tricked by doorstep conmen into taking away green waste - which is then illegally fly-tipped in the countryside.

Waste carriers, like other licensed trades, are required to register and operate in line with a set of rules that protect the environment and their customers. These rules include disposing of waste in the right place, storing it safely and keeping accurate records of transfer and disposal.

If these traders don’t have a waste carrier’s licence, there is no guarantee rubbish will go to an authorised site. Instead, it could end up dumped on the side of the road or burned in a field, causing environmental damage. And the person who hired the unregistered trader could face a criminal charge.

Kevin Baker of the Environment Agency said: “We want people to take three steps to check whether the collector has a waste carrier’s licence from the Environment Agency: ask where the rubbish will end up, don’t pay cash and insist on a receipt, then record the details of the vehicle used to take the rubbish away.

“If people suspect criminal activity, they should report it on our hotline 0800 807060 or anonymously through CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111 and give as much detail as possible.”

All householders have a duty of care to ensure their waste is disposed of legally. Failing to meet the duty of care means that people could be held responsible if their waste is fly-tipped or otherwise illegally disposed of. If this happens they could be fined up to £400. Before hiring someone to remove waste, householders should check their credentials online at environment. data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-wastecarriers-brokers.

19

TFC puts the focus on equality and diversity

Together for Childhood, Shelley Shaw said: “By listening to a range of communities and people with different lived experience, we have already learned so much and this has helped us shape our plans and activities.

“It’s really important that we keep listening and learning from a diverse variety of individuals and groups so together we can take action to keep children safe.”

To learn more about the work on equality and diversity, or if you want to help us improve our knowledge and support the prevention of child sexual abuse, then please follow our social media pages for contact and updates via Twitter on @ TFCPlymouth or through the Facebook page, which you can find by searching ‘Together for Childhood Plymouth’.

If you want to find out more about Together for Childhood contact the NSPCC in Plymouth at Plymouth.Servicecentre@nspcc.org.uk or 01752 422577 or visit the NSPCC website.

Any adult concerned about the welfare of a child or young person can call the NSPCC helpline for free and confidential advice on 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk Children can contact Childline for free on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk 365 days a year, and speak to a counsellor about a worry or concern they may have.

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20 October 2020

20 October 2020

@PlymChronicle

Spirit of ‘Resurgam’ is needed again...

THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience Making a bold statement about faith is required sometimes and for this article this is a timely requirement.

As far as the Christian faith is concerned, globally, it is the focus on Jesus Christ as the Son of God which is foundational.

All authentic traditions from Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Protestant have at their core the belief that Jesus is unique in that He is both 100% divine and 100% human.

His death and resurrection 2,000 years ago are at the very essence of Christian traditions and the most unifying element within Christendom.

On the Plymouth City Council website, a statement has been posted which says: “We are in the midst of a global pandemic which is both a health emergency and an unprecedented economic shock.

This is a time when local government really matters. Our plan must protect jobs and address the immediate threats to lives and livelihoods, but it must also reset the local economy to address structural inequalities in our city and place a fairer and greener future at the heart of our recovery.” – Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council.

The statement on Chris Cole the website went on to say: “For the past six months we have had to balance the tension between health issues and a weakening economy.

Council leader Tudor Evans has pledged to lead from the front the city’s economic recovery programme out of the COVID-19 lockdown. At Cabinet today (Tuesday 5 May) he will announce plans to help Plymouth’s businesses get back to work through Resurgam - a programme to oversee recovery across all sectors.”

The word Resurgam is Latin for ‘I shall rise again’ and the word became part of Plymouth’s history when it appeared on a wooden sign over the bombed-out St Andrew’s Church during the Blitz. Councillor Evans said: “This is the

biggest economic challenge this city has faced since the Blitz, but I am certain we can rise to the challenge.”

So where does this story of Resurgam come from in our city’s history? The story goes that the sign was placed by a Margaret E Smith, an English teacher at Plymouth High School for Girls.

Miss Smith had Resurgam painted on a piece of wood by a Mutley carpenter and placed it above the entrance to St Andrew’s. Later it was carved in granite and placed above the door.

All this was during the 1941 Blitz which saw Plymouth bombed by Nazi Germany in a way that was comparable in devastation to the Blitz in London.

The threat of invasion and dominance by a foreign force was the last time we as a city experienced anything as challenging as we are today.

I would just like to take this opportunity of encouraging everybody who believes in the power of prayer to pray from hearts of sincerity with courage, generosity and love for our fellow man and families and pray for those in authority as is stated in Holy Scripture.

“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf and give thanks for them.

Pray this way for leaders and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

This is good and pleases God our Saviour, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1–4) As in the dark days of WW2, it will be courage within the hearts of Plymothians that will give us hope to see a new day dawning.

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

Garden waste to move to wheelie bins from 2021 Plymouth City Council is working on plans to switch the garden waste collection service from bags to wheelie bins for the 2021 season.

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

There’s lots of preparation work to do as this is a big change for approximately 38,000 households which use the service At the moment, the council issue thousands of bags per year to residents. The bags are expensive, they’re made of plastic and because they get so dirty, a lot of the time they’re not recyclable. They’re also shipped from China, so they make quite a large carbon footprint. They also go missing, blow away in the wind, and rip.

But most importantly, the change is so that the council can look after its staff. In 2019, garden waste crews lifted more than 4,400 tonnes of garden waste throughout the year.

So, in line with industry best practice, the council are reducing the manual lifting involved in the current garden waste collection service with the introduction of bins, which are easier to move and can be mechanically lifted into the truck.

The benefits of this change for residents are that garden waste will be kept dry and tidy, while the bins will be easier to clean and are more robust.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and the Environment, said: “This investment is part of our ongoing work to modernise the service making it more efficient and helping to make the city greener and cleaner.

“For residents, it will mean an end to worrying about the weight of each bag; and end of dragging a filthy, wet sacks out for collection and an end to them blowing off down the road, never to be seen again.”

In the coming months, residents will be asked to register for the 2021 service and will then be added to the bin delivery schedule order.

Dial the Experts The handy guide to Plymouth trades & services

R.C. Electrical - Ryan Cross

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

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

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

BUILDERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mob 07887587957 Office 01752212136

OVEN CLEANING SERVICES

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

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

ERB PAINTING & DECORATING

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

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

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

STEVE BENNETT PLASTERING

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

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

T.R.B Heating - Trevor Bryant

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

Want to reach 90,000 homes around Plymouth?

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

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

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

One Call Maintenance

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

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

StepUp Maintenance

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

ROOFING

DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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WASTE REMOVAL

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

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22 October 2020

22 October 2020

@PlymChronicle

New scheme to help people access food and essentials during COVID Plymouth City Council has announced plans for a new scheme to ensure that people who are struggling to afford food and other essentials because of the impact of COVID-19 are able to access them.

The council has received over £343,000 from the Government’s Emergency Assistance Grant for Food and Essential Supplies to help those most in need due to ongoing financial difficulties caused by the pandemic.

During lockdown, the council and its partners ensured that over 900 households who were shielding but had not yet received their Government food parcels or who had no money for food were able to access it through the Caring for Plymouth scheme.

Around 3,300 people were supported at the height of the programme, with 30 organisations providing around 70,000 meals.

The continuing impact of COVID-19 means that increasing numbers of people are expected to find themselves in financial difficulty and may have periods when they have no food.

Unemployment and the number of benefit claimants are set to double by the end of the year and it is estimated that many more people will be requesting support from food aid organisations. To help ensure the city can respond to increased demand and provide food to those who are most in need, a new contract will be signed with Food Plymouth to co-ordinate and manage a depot on behalf of a collaborative food sector alliance.

The council will work with FareShare, Food Plymouth and Provide Devon to co-ordinate all the local foodbanks and other informal

food aid organisations and ensure they can work collectively to reach everyone in need.

It will also work with the South West Food

Hub CIC to co-ordinate food donations and buy, store and distribute food and other essentials in the most effective and efficient way possible. A grant scheme will be opened to help smaller and grassroots food organisations, as well as organisations that: • are able to reach particularly vulnerable groups of people • are developing self-help approaches to food • give information and advice on benefits,

finances, employment and other sources of support.

A dedicated phone line will also be provided, with advice and information on debt management and benefit claims, skills and employment opportunities and other support available, to help people move away from relying on short-term food aid.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing and Co-operative Development, said: “Caring for Plymouth and the Good Neighbours Scheme have supported a huge number of people during the pandemic, particularly during the early response phase and through lockdown.

However, the impact of COVID-19 will be longlasting and we expect many more people to find themselves in financial difficulty as the crisis continues, particularly if we see a large local outbreak or are faced with further lockdown measures.

“We need to do all we can, with our partners, to ensure those who urgently need food and essentials can get them, as well as help people access advice and support on money matters, learning and employment opportunities and other sources of financial support.

“This scheme will bring all key partners together to ensure the city can continue to respond to residents’ most basic needs as the challenges of COVID-19 continue.”

Clip ‘n Climb stays on top in first month Popular venue Clip ’n Climb in Derriford has proved that the demand for indoor attractions is still very much present, despite COVID-19 restrictions.

Your guide to community events in your area

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

At the end of July, Clip ‘n Climb centres nationwide began to reopen with strict guidelines in place and reduced capacities, with many centres also taking advantage of the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme.

During these challenging times, it’s hard to predict how leisure businesses will cope, but Clip ‘n Climb Plymouth has proved that staying responsive and flexible is key to running a successful leisure business in the Covid era.

Despite only running at 50 per cent capacity, throughout the month of August the centre successfully welcomed over 3000 individual climbers, generating an encouraging turnover of £42,000, with the cafe alone generating nearly a quarter of total earnings.

Michelle Perrin, Manager at Clip ‘n Climb Plymouth said: “As operations where very different when we re-opened, we are astounded by the customer feedback and understanding.

“Customers have enjoyed the lower capacities in sessions, which in some cases made them return the following week.

Upselling in the café has been one of our main aims and we took full advantage of the government ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme, which has been a success”.

A total of 96% of all bookings were taken online, strongly outlining that customers are favouring contactless booking and payment methods wherever possible, emphasising the benefit of online platforms for businesses.

Vicky Coupe, Clip ‘n Climb UK franchise manager added: “We are really pleased with

our August performance; it highlights to us that the demand is still there for indoor leisure. Over the last few weeks, we have seen great customer feedback from our centres with regards to the procedures that have been put in place.

“This is the key to our return visits being so high, as people felt safe visiting. September onwards will bring its own obstacles but we are confident Clip ‘n Climb will be at the top of everyone’s list to visit.”

Alfresco bubbles help to buffer loneliness ‘Golden Oldies’ from a community cinema in Plymouth have begun to venture out from their homes for companionship thanks to emergency funding from the National Lottery.

Set up three years ago, Red Velvet Cinema, based in Devonport Guildhall, gave ‘older people’ particularly those experiencing loneliness and social isolation, a regular place to go where they could watch a classic film and share conversation and companionship. Before coronavirus, it had a regular audience of about 25 but, as the pandemic spread, everyone was put into lockdown.

For people like Mike Higgins, who is 82 years old and has been going to Red Velvet Cinema since it started, the loneliness has been very hard to bear. “Red Velvet Cinema is a significant part of my life,” he said. “I have very little ‘family’ available to me now so to get phone calls; to keep in touch and now meeting up in little ‘Garden Clubs’ is really important. The lonely bit is quite destroying; without this I have no other contact with people.”

Since the beginning of lockdown, Red Velvet Cinema has kept in contact with many of its ‘regulars’, providing conversation; collecting shopping and delivering home-made cake!

Now, as its founder, Caroline Blackler, explained, the organisation has started to do more, organising small groups and - most importantly - bringing people back together.

“The most important thing we have done during lockdown is to prevent any single person from Red Velvet Cinema thinking that there is nobody that cares about them. We have kept phoning, kept asking individuals how they are feeling and kept showing them that they matter.

We know how deeply upsetting it is for people – whatever age – to think they are ‘on their own’, that ‘nobody cares’. And we are determined that not one person who comes to Red Velvet Cinema should feel like that.”

Jean McDade is 85 years old and lives on her own. It was a 123 days before she left her house. Having contact with others through Red Velvet Cinema has been, she said, a lifeline: “It has been my bridge between being lonely and having someone who cares and tries to do something to about it. Unless someone has been absolutely on their own, day after day after day, you have no experience of it to know what it’s like.”

With £10,000 of funding from the National Lottery Coronavirus Community Support Fund, the cinema can now afford to keep the camaraderie alive. With winter on its way, the ‘garden clubs’ will move inside into Moments Café: every Wednesday morning, starting on October 7 from 10am until 12 noon, there will be a coffee morning which will also include a regular digital technology class for people wishing to learn how to use digital technology to better connect with each other, family and friends.

Red Velvet Cinema is determined that, by adhering to Government guidelines, it will help to keep people safe but, at the same time, reducing through companionship, the crippling effects of that modern-day malaise called loneliness.

October 2020 23

@PlymChronicle

Pioneering POP fund fizzes with innovation Charities and community groups in Plymouth are in line for thousands of pounds of new funding in a pioneering initiative designed to encourage collaboration not competition.

The POP+ Collectives Fund, launched

by Plymouth Octopus Project this month, has been designed with the organisation’s members to encourage the city’s voluntary and community sector to find innovative ways of working together. The new fund will continue to build on the amazing amount of trust and positive relationships that have enhanced and strengthened our communities throughout the pandemic.

The Collectives Fund will be open to the organisation’s three hundred members which between them support an amazing array of projects catering for an extraordinary range of individuals.

Within the sector, and across the city, there is a huge amount of expertise, experience and empathy from past endeavours. It is the combined value of this, said Charlotte Brew, POP+’s learning champion, that the organisation is keen to harness through the new fund.

“We’ve worked really hard with our members during the last few months to design something for Plymouth that will enable past experiences to help shape future projects,” said Charlotte. “We are putting ‘collaboration’ at the heart of the new fund as everyone involved believes, by working together, we can better support projects and create and improve existing connections across the city.”

The Collectives Fund is innovative in a number of ways. In a break from traditional funding processes - where a submission is considered by decision makers in private - the bids will be made public from the start. As well as being on the POP+ website, applicants will benefit from advice and guidance from fellow members before final submission.

Matt Bell, chief executive of POP+ is aware

this might be a bit daunting for some.

He said: “Our next round of funding is pretty radical: encouraging people to make public their bid at the start of the funding process, knowing that their peers – who may also be applying for a slice of the funding will be able to see and comment on it may make some people feel uncomfortable and possibly reluctant to take part.

“But, we believe that in overcoming their concerns, people, and their projects, will be open to greater opportunities.”

The digital communication platform, Matt Bell

‘Slack’, will be used where conversations between those involved with the application can take place at the same time. This, it is hoped, will lead to better, and more open, communication. It also means POP+ can better support the collaborations and, because it is directly involved and will not have to ask people to complete funding monitoring reports.

Aware that all of this might be a step too far down the digital highway for some, POP+ will be holding free-of-charge ‘tech training sessions’ once-a-fortnight.

Matt Bell believes there are members of POP+ ready for more technology in their lives: “Our members have told us how much they have valued the training sessions on Zoom that we ran during lockdown.

“We know it’s an even bigger step making the use of these digital platforms conditional in the funding process but there is some great technology available that will help create more-effective communication, strengthen collaborations and enable greater participation.”

Since POP+ was founded in 2014 the organisation has provided support for the voluntary and community sector which has included hosting regular networking events which, pre-COVID, were regarded as a great place to strike up new working relationships and to find new work partners.

Now, POP+ is testing out new ways of allowing its members to meet, albeit in a virtual space, in the hope that some of the magic made through its meetings will prevail.

The Collectives Fund launched at the beginning of September. A second fund for members, called £250 a POP, has also opened allowing organisations to rapidly claim up to £250 to help them with costs incurred during or because of the coronavirus.

For more information about either of these funds visit www.plymouthoctopus. org or phone us on 395131. To sign up for the tech training sessions go to https://bit.ly/ poptechtues - it’s worth a pop.

Plymouth Lions Club at work in the community Plymouth Lions Club continue to demonstrate their passion for helping the homeless of Plymouth by supporting the city’s Soup Run.

For the past 13 years the Club have fulfilled a monthly slot in the diary of the Soup Run, with the exception of two years when Ivybridge Lions came to the rescue.

The soup run is organised by Hillary Knight who operates out of the Shekinah Mission Plymouth.

Hillary carries out the tireless task of organising the daily run by coordinating various voluntary groups throughout Plymouth to distribute hot food, sandwiches, cakes and biscuits to a good number of distribution points where the homeless are likely to congregate during late evening.

The hot food is produced and sandwiches made by the Lions and their helpers utiliing the free use of the kitchen at the Emmanuel Church Hall Mannamead and then transported in their own vehicles and set out on tables at each of the agreed distribution points.

All of the food is donated by various suppliers and collected by the Lions Club.

A number of new clothing items are also made available by donation from local stores and clean used clothing donated by friends which are given to the homeless. In addition, sleeping bags are regularly purchased by the Lions Club at reduced prices and handed to the homeless.

Hillary Knight said: “Well done Plymouth Lions, the social distancing was excellent.

Thanks to Lions Ian for preparing the fresh soup in batches, Lionel for leading the team with his lady helpers, George, his young friend, and Bob Dight. A total of 48 needy people were fed on the night.”

USEFUL NUMBERS Emergency Numbers

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

Helplines

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

Travel

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

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

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

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

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

In addition to the Soup Run, a great deal of help is given by the Lions Club of Plymouth to the Women’s Refuge in Plymouth, where a number of ladies leave their homes with their children and seek refuge for various relationship concerns in a safe, secure environment. Homeless, often with only the clothes they stand in!!

The Lions club of Plymouth over the past 10 years have provided each displaced child with a new toys, important clothing items, books, pencils, etc. Suitable for differing age groups, which the child keeps. The ladies are provided with personal items, make-up and essential goods. (See photo above).

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

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

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

24 October 2020

@PlymChronicle

Teams from eight countries will take part in SailGP

Advertise to

over 22,000

Depending on the situation regarding the coronavirus, the November edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Derriford and North Plymouth will be published on October 30

with a copy deadline of October 21.

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

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

For more information, or to talk to one of our sales advisors, call

October 2020

Plymouth has beaten compe tition from severa l UK cities to host prestigious the SailGP in 2021 See page 24

COVID UP DATE See inside for news

Gables Dogs and Cats Home has received a huge response to an appeal for a kitten with a deform ity page 12

and information from Plymouth City Counc il Pages 2 and 3

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ALSO INS

Plymouth Moor View MP Johnn Minister for y Mercer Defence Peopl Sherford e and Vetera - in his role as Skills ns - visited Services perso Training Centre the to meet forme industry skills nnel who are learni r ng now constrArmed uction • Story and photos page 13

109 Victoria Rd, St Bud Plymouth eaux, PL5 1RX 01752 366 022 www.nigel gainey.co.uk

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team led by Ben Ainslie and I’m sure they will receive a lot of local support in their bid for the global championship.

“Plymouth is a city that shares a lot of the same DNA as SailGP, with a strong focus on marine technology and well aligned with our sustainability objectives. It also provides great viewing opportunities for spectators, who can view the racing from an elevated position on Plymouth Hoe. We look forward to staging a fantastic event and working with Plymouth City Council to ensure we leave a positive lasting impression and legacy in the city.”

Pete Smith, deputy leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome one of the world’s most spectacular sailing events to Plymouth – where better to play host than Britain’s Ocean City. It’s going to be an unmissable weekend, with fast and furious racing that spectators can witness up close thanks to the natural amphitheatre provided by Plymouth Sound.

“As well as providing a thrilling experience for visitors and locals, the economic impact of the event has the potential to be huge. This is brilliant news, especially as we look ahead to the future and focus on post-pandemic economic recovery. We’ll be working closely with SailGP to maximize the opportunities offered, ensuring that our residents benefit positively and inspiring a love of sailing in the next generation with an accompanying youth engagement program.”

Following the UK leg, SailGP plans to remain in Europe for grand prix events in the other team markets: Denmark, France and Spain. Further dates and venues will be announced in the coming months.

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nothing better than racing in front of a home crowd and we are incredibly excited about the prospect. There is an element of nostalgia for me personally, having grown up and learned to sail in the West Country and now all these years later coming back to race on the international stage.

Plymouth is a fantastic sailing venue with a natural amphitheatre for the fans to watch these amazing F50s.”

SailGP CEO Sir Russell Coutts said: “We are really excited to add Plymouth as the third event in Season 2 of SailGP. The British have a very talented

Following recent warnings about the increase in the number of positive cases in Plymouth, it is even more important that people with symptoms should be able to easily book a test.

He said: “We have a drive-in testing site here in Plymouth and rumours of its demise are greatly exaggerated. It is very much open. Yet we have been hearing reports of people being told they can’t get a test in Plymouth and are being offered places as far away as Taunton in Somerset - almost 75 miles away, and a 2.5 hour bus journey, and Launceston in Cornwall which is well over an hour’s travel by road.”

“This shambolic booking system needs to be sorted out right now. This city has had a wakeup call with a recent increase in cases, we are asking people with symptoms to get tested, and when people try to do the right thing, it should be far easier for them.

“We were so concerned about this last week that our NHS partners in the city had to put in place an additional service for those with symptoms who couldn’t get tested.

“We are in a pandemic, we are told repeatedly that this country has capacity to test on an unprecedented scale and yet we are hearing complaints from Plymouth people trying but failing to book a test.”

As well as writing to the Health Secretary, the Council Leader has written to Dido Harding, head of the NHS Test and Trace programme, who has recently been appointed interim chair of the new National Institute for Health Protection.

He added: “This situation could not happen at a worse time. We are seeing an increase in cases, we are all being encouraged to get back to the office and our kids back to school. How can it be in September - months into the pandemic - that a worrying number of Plymouth people are struggling to get a test in their own city?”

If you have symptoms please book a test as normal via the Government website. If you are unable to book a slot, email d-ccg. devon.urgenttesting@nhs.net and you will be contacted by someone who will direct you to the nearest testing centre. Symptoms can be checked via 111 online or calling 111.

The city’s Public Health Team have been in touch directly with the Department for Health and Social Care who say that while the service is currently very busy, they would ask anyone who tries to book a test and is unable to do so, or who is offered a location or time which is not convenient, to wait a few hours and then try again.

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Featuring the world’s fastest inshore sail racing, the event is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors to Plymouth over the weekend of July 17 and 18. It will attract a global audience of tens of millions who will follow the racing via the world’s top-tier broadcasters in more than 100 territories including exclusively in the UK on Sky Sports.

The eight teams from around the world will arrive in Plymouth following the season opener in San Fransisco in April and New York SailGP in June.

They all compete in hi-tech catamarans capable of speeds approaching 60mph.

The adrenaline-filled racing between competing nations will take place on Plymouth Sound in partnership with Plymouth City Council, with support from Associated British Ports, English Cities Fund and Sutton Harbour Group.

Plymouth SailGP will also form part of the city’s Mayflower 400 commemorations, marking the anniversary of the signature voyage across the Atlantic Ocean to America. Plymouth was selected following a competitive six-month-long bid process involving five other UK cities.

New for British fans in Season 2 will be the addition of the New Zealand SailGP Team to the impressive line-up of world-class sailors and top sailing nations. Among the league stars is the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie, who will give the home crowd something to cheer about at the British event.

Ainslie said: “For us as a British team there is

Spectacular action coming to Plymouth

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Plymouth has beaten competition from five other cities in the UK to host the prestigious SailGP’s Season 2 European debut.

Plymouth Council leader Tudor Evans has called for the Health Secretary Matt Hancock to sort out the ‘shambolic’ booking system which is preventing people from being tested for COVID-19.

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Plymouth is selected to host spectacular inshore sailing event in July 2021

Council leader urges Government to sort out the ‘shambolic test booking system

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24 October 2020