Plymouth Chronicle September North 2023

Young Plymouth businessman shortlisted for national award

Luke Henderson, owner of Snapon Tools in Plymouth and South Hams, is celebrating after being shortlisted for a national business award.

Hand-picked by a panel of judges, the young entrepreneur is now in the running to win the title of the British Franchise Association’s ‘Next Generation Franchisee of the Year’.

“Being a finalist is incredibly exciting,” said Luke. “I’m shocked to have made it this far but incredibly proud. Being a Snap-on franchisee has been life changing and I’ve been able to accomplish things I could once have only dreamed of.”

Luke launched his Snap-on Tools franchise in 2018 at just 25 years old, after a career working as an MOT technician. After sadly losing his mother that same year, Luke dedicated his energy to making her, and his family proud. In just over four years, he’s built a multi-van business, won multiple awards for performance and brought his brother into the franchise alongside him.

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

Sponsored by HSBC, the awards recognise the very best franchised businesses in the country, celebrating consistent growth, innovation and exceptional customer service.

Luke ticked all the boxes, and then some! From his custom-built Snap-on mobile stores, Luke and his team sell the most sought-after tools in the industry and deliver outstanding customer service to

automotive technicians across Plymouth and South Hams.

Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchise Association said: “We would like to offer our enormous congratulations to Luke and all this year’s finalists. We received a huge number of entries, and it was wonderful to read of all the amazing work being done in the UK franchising sector. We applaud our finalists for their enthusiasm, dedication and tenacity and for continuing to uphold the highest standards of the association.”

Fellow judge, Gillian Morris, is UK Head of Franchise, Commercial Banking at HSBC said: “Shortlisting candidates for the awards is one of the toughest challenges of the year. Once more the candidates were a very high standard, and I was really impressed at the diversity of entries across brands and sectors. I am looking forward to meeting the finalists and wish them all luck!”

Recruitment company to raise

£50,000

for Sue Ryder charity

Celebrating 50 years in the construction recruitment industry, ITS Plymouth is commemorating the milestone by pledging to raise £50,000 for the Sue Ryder charity.

Each ITS office, including the Plympton branch, is taking part in various fundraising events, which include a charity skydive, The 3 Peaks Challenge, site labouring days, marathons, football matches and much more. The funds raised will provide hospice care for people with life-limiting conditions and their families.

“Giving back is at the heart of everything we do,“ said Paul Knight, ITS director. “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we’re thrilled to support a fantastic cause and make a real difference.”

Paul. “As we celebrate 50 years of excellence, we remain focused on delivering the best solutions for our clients and candidates.”

Along with the charity drive, ITS Plymouth continues to push its diversity and inclusion focus to create employment opportunities for all.

By tackling industry stereotypes and showcasing the benefits of working in construction, ITS Plymouth is passionate about supporting sector-minority groups such as female workers and young people.

Thanks to his drive and determination to succeed, Luke was recently named the UK’s Top Multi-Unit Franchisee for the Southwest and fourth overall for the UK by global franchise giant, Snap-on Tools. He’s now got his sights set firmly on future growth and plans to support his brother, Mike, into franchise ownership too.

Winners of the HSBC BFA Franchisee of the Year Awards 2023 will be announced at an awards ceremony in Birmingham, in November. Luke said that, whilst winning would be an amazing achievement, he’s hoping his story can inspire other entrepreneurs into franchising.

“I hope my story encourages other young people to go for it!” said Luke. “My ambitions are to expand and grow my business, support my brother as he forges his own future alongside me and enjoy an early retirement. All of which my franchise is on track to help me to achieve.”

Cost of Living Plan launched

A new city-wide Cost of Living Plan that aims to increase the support available to Plymouth residents in dealing with the ongoing cost of living crisis has been launched by the City Council.

The new plan recognises that addressing the challenge to the city has to be a team effort and has been created in partnership with local organisations and charities that work directly with people most affected by the crisis.

The plan sets out how the Council and partners will support residents and brings together activity going on across Plymouth that will help local people, with five key themes:

Offers and discounts: Promoting all the free and low-cost things there are to do in Plymouth

Making the money go further: Helping people to access financial advice and claiming the benefits they’re entitled to, support for people to find and remain in work and ways to save money.

Crisis support: Providing urgent support for people in crisis, including those at risk of homelessness or who need emergency food aid

Asks of Government: Lobbying

the Government for support with new initiatives in Plymouth and for changes to existing policy

Longer term plans: Activity that will benefit local residents in the future, including investment, funding and business support.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member with responsibility for the Cost of Living Plan, said: “The ongoing cost of living crisis is having a huge impact in Plymouth. More people than ever before are needing crisis support and living in temporary accommodation, with many more finding themselves struggling to get by with the increase in rents and mortgages, food and energy prices.

“When we were elected to lead the Council in May, we pledged to make the cost of living an absolute priority and have been working alongside our partners over the summer to produce this new plan, which I’m proud to be launching today.”

Throughout the coming months, the council will be working closely with partners to provide support and advice to residents. This will include: working directly with employers to showcase how they can support their employees; running campaigns to encourage people to check they’re

claiming the benefits they are entitled to; providing free skills support to help people back into work or to get better jobs; and facilitating and promoting the opening of warm, welcoming spaces in the cold winter months.

Emma Handley, CEO of Citizens Advice Plymouth said: “In the past year, the rising living costs have pushed more people into the financial crisis and seeking help from foodbanks and other charitable support.

“Since January, Citizens Advice Plymouth has helped over 2,600 Plymouth residents to address issues related to increased living costs. The cost of living crisis is not affecting everyone equally and impacts the most vulnerable in multiple ways. Therefore, we welcome the Council’s initiative of the joined-up approach that will bring many benefits to the local residents. We encourage anyone, who doesn’t have enough money to live on, to seek advice. There are lots of options for support across the city.”

The plan is available to view now at www.plymouth.gov.uk/cost-livingplan

Find help and support on the Council’s Cost of Living Hub: www. plymouth.gov.uk/costofliving

ITS Plymouth works with main contractors, developers and sub-contractors across all sectors in the industry, supplying trades and labour as well as professional construction staff on a temporary and permanent basis.

“Our commitment to quality has been the driving force behind our success in the industry” continues

As well as this, ITS Plymouth is involved in several key mental health initiatives, which have seen company ambassadors co-ordinate and deliver mental health training to ensure all workers are supported in an understanding and friendly environment.

“Mental health is an issue that affects us all - that’s why we’re passionate about creating a positive working environment that supports well-being”, explained Paul. “Our partnership with mental health charities and national initiatives is part of that commitment.”

Luke Henderson (left) pictured with his brother Mike

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

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

Tell Me a Story

Sept 15, 22, 29

Visit The Box every Friday morning at 10.30am for half an hour of storytelling underneath the Royal Naval ship figureheads - perfect for under 5s and their grown ups. And there will still betime to say ‘hello’ to Mildred the Mammoth afterwards! Free admission. No need to book.

Circus Berlin

Sept 6 to Sept 23

From the producers of Circus Extreme comes the incredible and jaw dropping Continental Circus Berlin in Central Park. With an array of brilliant circus acts, music and real youthful energy, enjoy an international production packed full of comedy, daredevils, dancing and aerial acts. Housed in one of the UK’s largest circus big tops this show will delight young and old alike and promises to be a family treat. For details visit www.circusberlin.co.uk

Plymouth Heartbeat Celebration

Sept 9

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Plymouth Heartbeat at Scott Business Park from 11am to 3pm. Opening by Luke Pollard MP featuring Emazdad the Magician, face painting, sponosred head shave, BBQ and raffle.

Big Bee Event

Sept 9

Holly Park Apiaries is running the event at The Seven Stars Inn, Tamerton Foliot from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Admission is free and families can see live bees at work in a sealed observation hive along with a display of beekeeping equipment and the chance to talk to experienced beekeepers. Holly Park Apiaries local raw Devon honey will be on sale as well as free face painting and free children’s colouring competition.

Coffee Morning

Sept 9

The Plymouth Hoe club, 1, Osborne Place, Lockyer street, opposite the bowling club, is hosting a MacMillan coffee morning on from 11am until 1pm. All are welcome in support of this worthwhile charity. Free admission.

El Galéon

Sept 13 to 17

A full size replica of a 17th century Spanish galleon will be visiting the Barbican and will be open to visitors to tour the vessel. The ship will be open from 10am to 8pm. For details and tickets visit www.tickets. velacuadra.es

Bridget Christie

Sept 14

Stand up comedy legend and star of Channel 4’s The Change brings her Who Am I? tour to the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus starting at 7.30pm. Tickets from www.comicalentertainment.com

SING Devon

Sept 14

SING Devon present a Welcoming New Voices free session at Pamphlet Methodist Church Hall, Plymstock from 7.15pm to 9pm. Join a friendly group of local people for a fabulous evening. Experience the joy of singing - even if think you can’t sing. Lots of laughs as well. Details at www.singdevon.com or call Peter Scott on 07896 276577 for more information or to book a place.

Seafest Plymouth

Sept 16 and 17

Seafest Plymouth - formerly Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival - is a must for seafood enthusiasts.

taking place on October 8. For more information and to register visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tourdemoor

The festival will include lots of trader stalls, tasty treats, and demonstrations from the cookery theatre. Children can take part in the free activities including a find the fish trail. The popular cardboard boat race will also be taking place on Saturday. The free Seafest Plymouth is organised by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, and takes place on The Barbican, Sutton Harbour and Waterfront.

In Conversation with Judith Weir

Sept 18

Opening event for the new Musica Viva season at the Levinsky Hall, Plymouth University. Featuring composer Judith Weir, Master of the Kings Music, for a public evening of conversation with Robert Taub about her music, inspirations for her creativity and her current projects. Judith’s recent orchestral overture Brighter Visions Shine Afar was performed at the Coronation of King Charles III. This special evening will include an opportunity for members of the audience to pose questions to Judith Weir. For further info and tickets visit www.plymouth.ac.uk/ arts-institute

Car Free Day

Sept 22

Enjoy fun and free activities for all ages at The Piazza, Armada Way September between 11am and 5pm. The Car Free Day event will see representatives from local businesses and the Council share advice on how people can save money and time all whilst benefiting their health and the environment. Look out for interactive activities including the chance to join in with guided bike rides, climb aboard the Plymouth City chatter bus, or take on the challenge of pedalling a bike to power a television! Free bike maintenance checks will also be available with Dr Bike, so bring your bicycle along to have an experienced mechanic check everything from wheels, brakes, gears and more. This year, Plymouth is offering free rides on the Beryl e-bikes for anyone in Plymouth. Download the Beryl app, create an account, and start planning a journey.

Mediaeval Lunch

Sept 23

In the Ford Park Cemetery Visitor Centre. Tickets £10 available from the office which is open weekdays from 10am to 4pm. Telephone 01752 665442. Booking essential.

Motown Tribute Night

Sept 29

China Fleet Country Club celebrates Motown’s golden era starring Ruby Washington and Bruce Parker, the California Soul Man. For bookings visit www.chinafleet.co.uk/events/event-calendar/motown-tributenight.

An Evening with Sir Geoffrey Boycott

Oct 4

The outspoken cricketing legend will be appearing at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus for a night of fun and laughter, cricketing anecdotes and stories plus film of his playing and commentating career. Starts at 7.30pm tickets on sale from £20 at www. comicalentertainment.com

An Evening with Jeff Stelling

Oct 5

The Sky Sports legend, plus special guest former professional footballer Craig Hignett give an insight into what goes on behind the scenes in the studios along with some incredible football stories. Followed by a live auction and Q&A. Event takes place at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus starting at 8pm. Tickets available from www.comicalentertainment.com

British Beard and Moustache Championships

Oct 14

Organised by local couple Clair and Mike WellsburyNye at The Duke of Cornwall Hotel. Competitors from all over the UK - and further afield - will battle for honours in the event, sponsored by beard care brand Honest Amish. Funds raised will go to the Devon and Cornwall Air Ambulance Trusts. For details visit www. britishbeardandmoustachechampionships.co.uk

Choral Workshop with John Hobbs

Oct 14

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir present an all day event at Woolwell Community Centre, Plymouth featuring Puccini’s Messa di Gloria and Parry’s I Was Glad. Cost is £22 which includes the loan of scores. Light lunch available for £7. Further details are available from www.plymouthphilchoir.org. Online booking available at wegottickets.com/f/13134

Collectors Toy & Train Fair

Oct 22

Organised by the Plymouth Diecast Club at The Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth from 10am to 1pm. Admission : Adults £1. Accompanied children free. Free onsite parking, security, wheelchair friendly, toilets. Cafe onsite.

Oktoberfest

Oct 27 and 28

The popular event returns to Central Park with Oompah bands, DJs, and traditional German food and drink. Tickets available from https://buytickets.at/ oktoberfestuk/846197

Nearly New Sale

Oct 28

New parents and carers in Plymouth can save money and be environmentally friendly at NCT Plymouth and West Devon’s sale Nearly New Sale at Eggbuckland Community College from 10.30am to 12.15pm. A limited number of early entry tickets will be released to allow a lucky few to get access at 10am alongside NCT members. Volunteers helping to set-up and run the sale will get the chance to bag a bargain before the doors even open. Visit www.facebook.com/ nctplymouth to find out more.

Day Conference on Roald Amundsen

Oct 28

The Devon and Cornwall Polar Society is hosting an all day event at Plymouth University’s Roland Levinsky Building on the life and times of Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen. In recent years, the Society has conducted several successful events commemorating Polar explorers of the ‘heroic age’ of Antarctic exploration and a celebration of Roald Amundsen is long overdue notwithstanding that Plymouth is the birthplace of Captain Robert Falcon Scott. A panel of four distinguished polar experts will discuss the adventures and achievements of this great Norwegian explorer to an international audience. Details at www. devonandcornwallpolarsociety.org.uk/

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

St Lukes Hospice’s big Tour de Moor charity fundraiser is

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HARVEST

October

Clean up crew tackles litter and grime in city centre

A ‘clean-up crew’ has been cleaning up parts of the city centre over the past two months, following a walkabout by the new administration.

Two months ago, the new Council Leader, Councillor Tudor Evans, along with Cabinet Members and Council officers, walked around the city centre to review each of the redevelopment projects and see what can be done to tidy-up the area whilst the works are ongoing.

As a result, a cleaning and maintenance team was deployed to tackle litter, grime and broken street furniture, with works including:

• Increased programme of surface washing in the West End area, particularly around those areas where food is being served outside

• Repairs to displaced and damaged slabs, caused by an increase in construction vehicles, with inspections now carried out weekly whilst work is ongoing

• Damaged displays on planters have been repaired in the West End (funded by the City Centre company)

• New temporary seating has been installed throughout the city centre

• More attention to planting areas in and around Armada Way

• A new roof has been installed on the old poster display at Frankfort Gate and further repairs to the one on Armada Way near Royal Parade.

• The Sun Dial on Armada Way has been cleaned

• Some of the Heras fencing around the Civic Square has been pulled back to create more room for pedestrians.

• Replacement signs are soon to be installed on the San Sebastian Fountain and some repointing of the fountain brick work.

Councillor Evans said: “I know that the large amount of works happening in the city centre is far from ideal. However, whilst some of the projects have seen unfortunate delays, I am committed to get them all moving as soon as possible. We have to move forward.

“While it is easy to say that in the longer term the pain of the construction will be worth it, I recognise the day-to-day impact it is having on those who live, work or visit the city centre.

“It is unacceptable that whilst the construction works continues, the area becomes a magnet for litter and grime. Dirty floors, damaged street furniture and unkempt flower beds must be fixed and maintained throughout.

“Each of these activities might seem small in isolation, but together they add up.“

We will continue to drive forward our ambitious plans for the city centre and I would like to thank all businesses, residents and visitors for their patience and understanding.”

Shadow Chancellor praises success of Estover engineering company

A Plymouth business saved from closure five years ago has been praised by Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP during a visit to the company.

The future of the Barden Corporation, which is based in Estover, had looked bleak five years ago as its owner planned to close it. With the help from local MPs and Cllr Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council five years ago and again now, the business was saved and is now flourishing.

Barden makes precision ballbearings for high-end uses in aerospace, defence and space. This year they celebrated their 75th anniversary.

Rachel Reeves MP, Labour’s Shadow Chancellor said: “It was fantastic to visit Barden Corporation today and see not only a brilliant and highly skilled local workforce, but also the growth being driven by the advanced manufacturing on site. With interest rates up today, it’s clear that delivering the change Britain’s economy needs will not come easy.

“But businesses like this show how much potential there is in Britain, with the skills, businesses and ideas to rebuild. Labour will work hand-inhand with British businesses so we have an economy that is strong and

growing to make working people are better off.”

Luke Pollard MP, said: “Plymouth is world-class across many industries including advanced manufacturing, so it was great Rachel saw one of our success stories up-close during her visit. Let’s start telling our story loudly and proudly so we can get more investment to get our city’s economy growing again.

Fred Thomas, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate in Plymouth Moor View, said: “I invited Rachel to

Plymouth so she could see the worldclass skills we have in the city.

“To get our economy motoring again after 13 lost years of low growth, I want a government that will back businesses like this, help them expand and create more jobs in Plymouth.”

With skin cancer in the South West on the rise Derriford Hospital has teamed up with Plymouth MP Luke Pollard to talk about his skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, and to raise awareness about prevention and symptoms.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and it can come in several forms. These include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanomas, all of which the Dermatology team at Rowan House are seeing more frequently.

Earlier this year local MP Luke Pollard was diagnosed with skin cancer and underwent surgery at Rowan House in Derriford Hospital to have it removed.

Since his diagnosis, Luke has teamed up with the hospital to spread awareness and help people recognise the signs and symptoms of skin cancer as well as to encourage the public to take measures to help prevent developing skin cancer.

He said: “Getting a cancer diagnosis is scary. I’m indebted to the NHS for diagnosing and treating my skin cancer.

“The earlier you get any lumps and bumps checked out the better. So if you’re concerned, please see your GP. And remember, the best thing we can all do to prevent skin cancer is to wear sunscreen all year round, not just at the height of summer.”

Reflecting on his treatment, Luke said: “I hope due to this treatment,

MP teams up with Derriford specialists to raise awareness of skin cancer

I’ll be able to keep causing trouble in my job for many years to come.”

Darren Wallis, skin cancer specialist nurse at Derriford said: “The main causes of skin cancer we are currently seeing are related to sun exposure and sun damaged skin. We are also seeing an increase in young people being referred to us due to sun exposure and sunbed use.

“The best ways to look after your skin and to prevent skin cancer is to wear factor 50 sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, and apply it every two hours. It is also advisable to stay out of the sun during the peak times of 11am to 3pm, wear loose fitting clothes that cover your skin, wear a floppy hat to protect your head, face and ears, and to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water.” Anyone worried about a lump or a bump on their skin, or a mole that has changed in shape, size or colour, should see their GP who will be able to check it out and refer the patient on for further treatment if needed.

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Pictured during the Shadow Chancellor’s visit (from left) Luke Pollard MP, Graham Stirling, managing director at the Barden Corporation, Rachel Reeves MP, Mark Truesdale, quality compliance manager, and Fred Thomas

PLYMOUTH OPTICIAN WITH SERIOUS EYE CONDITION URGES:

‘Don’t delay – early intervention can save your sight’

A Plymouth man is urging people to ensure they have regular eye tests to spot serious conditions that can lead to vision loss and even blindness.

At only 35, Matthew Rattenbury has narrowangle glaucoma. If left untreated it can lead to full glaucoma, which can cause irreversible damage to someone’s vision. He is currently on the NHS waiting list to

Police warning on rogue traders calling on homes in St Budeaux

Police have received a call from a member of the public concerning rogue traders knocking on doors in the St Budeaux area of Plymouth.

A male and his son have been offering tree surgery work in the area by telling the residents about having other works booked in around the area.

Fortunately, on this occasion the victim has been supported by neighbours and the suspects did not gain any money.

A police spokesperson said: “If you require any work doing to your home or garden, please use a reputable company, and gain at least three quotes from trusted companies.

“Please pass this message on to friends, families and neighbours, in the area.

“We also encourage members of the public to sign up to Devon and Cornwall Alert, so we can get these important messages out to as many residents as possible.”

Residents can sign up via alerts. dc.police.uk

Commonwealth War Graves Commission to hold open days

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) will be holding free tours of Plymouth’s Efford and Weston Mill Cemeteries, as well as the Plymouth Naval Memorial, as part of the Heritage Open Days Scheme.

People attending the heritage days will learn about the history of the CWGC who commemorate the 1.7 million Commonwealth men and women who lost their lives during both world wars. Tours will discuss the remarkable stories of the men and women of the Commonwealth forces who are buried and commemorated here.

Visitors will learn how CWGC staff, supporters and local volunteers preserve the unique cultural, horticultural and architectural heritage and ensure that the stories of those who died are told.

The Heritage Days will take place on September 11, 13 and 14 at various times. For more information and to book a spot, visit www.cwgc.org/visit-us/open-days/ or email Rebecca.smith@cwgc.org

have a type of laser eye surgery to correct the sight-threatening condition.

Early symptoms related to narrow angle glaucoma include intense eye pain, headaches or migraines, fuzzy lighting or halo figures, pupil dilation, vision troubles, bloodshot eyes and physical sickness.

The condition was picked up by Matthew’s optician when he was in his early 20s and its progress has been monitored yearly ever since.

It is now becoming severe, so he has to have laser iridotomy, which uses laser energy to create a small hole in the iris to help natural fluids drain from his eyes. Without the drainage, pressure will build up and cause irreparable damage.

Matthew, a dispensing optician and trainee contact lens optician at Specsavers Plymouth, said: “Where I work, I’m in the best place to have my eyes checked regularly, and I can’t stress how important the tests are.

“By catching a condition early, there’s a far better chance of successful treatment. This is definitely the case with glaucoma, because with early detection, careful monitoring and regular treatment, most people retain useful sight for life.

“Glaucoma isn’t in my family, as far as I know, so my case just shows the importance of regular eye tests, because when I was younger I wasn’t expecting this.

“Health professionals advise people to have an eye test every two years or as often as their optician recommends. The effects of conditions such as glaucoma can be so gradual, people often don’t realise their sight is failing.’

Glaucoma, often referred to as the silent thief of sight because of its gradual onset, is one of the main causes of blindness.

Although the condition cannot be reversed, it can be managed – so early detection is key.

Matthew, who lives in the city centre added: “Narrow angle glaucoma is more severe and less common than glaucoma. Glaucoma isn’t specifically age-related, but I am young to have these symptoms.

“A knock to the head could close the little drainage I currently have in the eyes, which would cause a significant build-up of pressure. This could be very painful and cause blurred vision.

“I know that the laser treatment isn’t a guaranteed cure but, hopefully, it will resolve any risk for me in the future.”

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Matthew Rattenbury

Preparation work to clear Armada Way is scheduled to start soon

Preparation work to clear Armada Way is expected to get underway in the next few weeks.

With the bird nesting season coming to an end, Plymouth City Council will have independent ecologists in Armada Way to see if there are any live bird nests within the felled trees and brushes. They will use specialist heat seeking technology to give a better picture of what is present.

The council is currently working with its ecologists to prepare and complete a proposed method that it will ask contractors to follow when they start the clear up. In line with the legal injunction conditions, this proposed method will be shared with the claimant in the High Court case.

The claimant will then have 48 hours to respond, and only following consideration of their views, will the clean-up operation be able to start.

The council is working on the premise that the removal work will take place over a 24 hour period, starting in the early morning and continuing through the day into the evening and overnight, if necessary, to enable completion and to minimise disruption as much as possible.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “We said we would sort out Armada Way and this a massive step in the right direction.

“Not only that, but we are almost there with our new proposals for a future Armada Way and will be looking to share them for people to give their views once the felled trees have gone.” Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “This will  be very welcome news for our businesses on Armada Way. We hope the felled trees will now be cleared away as soon as possible and the whole area tidied up and made more welcoming.

“But, most importantly, we look forward to being consulted on the new plans and work being allowed to start on the muchneeded regeneration of the city centre.”   There will also be some preparation work to install additional fencing and acoustic screening to reduce noise.

As soon as the felled trees and brush have been removed, the area will be cleaned and made safe before we fully remove all the fencing.

The council has written to businesses along Armada Way to give them the latest update and will let them know final details once they have been confirmed.

Independent company will gather views on new Armada Way designs

- See page 18

Lifelong Argyle supporter Ken has dream time thanks to care home

A life long Plymouth Argyle supporter has been given the treat of a lifetime - thanks to staff at the care home in Exmouth where he now lives.

When chatting to a staff member at Raleigh Manor recently, Ken Brookshaw mentioned how much his he loved his life in Plymouth and what his local team meant to him. So, the staff at the home decided to organise a special event for Ken, getting to meet the Plymouth Argyle team in person - proving the old adage, it’s never too late.

Ken has lived at Raleigh Manor for 18 months and is loved by staff and residents alike. Staff at the home were delighted to be a part of making his dream come true, as they knew how much it meant to him.

As Ken set off to Plymouth, the staff were all so excited for him. Ken was also accompanied by his daughter to witness this great occasion.

Ken’s daughter, Alison said: “It is not lost on me how much effort has gone into making this happen for my father.

Dad pointed out where he used to stand and watch games in the Devonport End when it was standing only.

“He got to meet all the players and watch them win on the night. It was a big day and he seems to have given him a new lease of life.”

Gill Pratt, general manager at the home, said: “We believe that every moment is worth cherishing. We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Raleigh Manor.

“It is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here in making our residents’ dreams come true.

A big thank you to Liam Donovan from Plymouth Argyle Football Club who was

instrumental in helping make this happen for us.”

And to put the icing on the cake, Plymouth Argyle secured a convincing two nil Carabao Cup win for Ken against Leyton Orient.

Consultation on dog control in Plymouth begins

Residents across Plymouth are being asked for their say on the review of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) designed to reduce dog fouling.

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

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

Every three years the law requires the PSPO to be reviewed and so a 30 day public consultation will now begin.

While most of the rules particularly around dog fouling will remain the same, residents will be asked about the potential for the following changes:

Dogs are currently excluded from our cemeteries at Efford and Weston Mill. However, it is proposed that dogs should be allowed on a lead in these areas.

In the current order, dog owners must keep their dogs on a lead within the marked playing area of a sports pitch.  This requirement has been in place since 2008, and helps prevent dog fouling in areas specifically designated for sporting activities.  It is in place to help ensure that these areas are kept safe for the people using them for sport. Residents are being asked whether this rule should be maintained of if dogs should be totally excluded from the pitches.

A person who holds an Animals Activities Licence to care for other people’s dogs

during the day or overnight is only allowed to walk up to six dogs at a time. We want your views on whether this should apply to anyone who is in charge of dogs in a public place, whether they hold a Licence or not.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: “As a dog owner myself, I am constantly irritated by people who do not control their dogs or pick up after them. They really give the rest of us a bad name.

“We have to continue to enforce against dog fouling. It’s not only wholly unsightly and antisocial, it’s also a health risk.

“But we do think it’s important to listen to residents about dog control which is why we are making these proposals for comment.

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

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

This will be the second review of the existing order, which was first introduced in 2017 and then reviewed and renewed in 2020.

The consultation can be accessed at https://plymouth-consult.objective.co.uk/ kse/event/37516 and closes on August 27. A published report will follow in September.

Image by Mariya from Pixabay

“It was wonderful to see how happy Ken was – and the staff loved being able to make this happen.

Ken pictured with members of the Argyle squad along with Katy Smith, activities co-ordinator for Raleigh Manor (left) and Ken’s daughter, Alison Perks

Tash represents England at world games for blind

Plymouth therapeutic care support worker, Natasha Mead, temporarily hung up her NHS uniform for a football kit as she headed off last month to play for England in the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) world games.

Natasha, known as Tash to her colleagues,

has worked for University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP) at Mount Gould Hospital for the last three years, most recently for the team at the new Discharge Assessment Unit .  Speaking about the games, Tash said: “I’m really excited and nervous, this is the highest level I’ve ever played blind football at and

I’m so honoured to be able to represent my unit and do my team proud. I think it will be inspirational for someone with my story, passion, and work ethic to represent the ward.”

Despite her athletic success, Tash has future plans to work in physio for the DAU. “I really like being on this unit, it means I get to spend more time with the patients, and I want to help them further. I help run daily exercise sessions with the patients and they appreciate it, especially with my background, I even get to talk to some of them about football which they enjoy.”

The team at Mount Gould Hospital are extremely proud of Tash and have shown their support by decorating the TV room at the unit with balloons and England flags. Her colleagues also plan on showing all of Tash’s games so both staff and patients can cheer her on.

Samantha O’Driscoll, ward manager, said: “Tash is an inspiration not just to the staff on the Discharge Assessment Unit but to everyone. She is an absolute star; we can’t wait to cheer her and the rest of the England squad on.”

Reflecting on the backing from her team, Tash said: “I’ve been overwhelmed with how much support I’ve received from everyone. I can’t thank my manager and my team enough for making it possible for me to go and play

Worried about the cost of living?

We know that the rising cost of living is a real worry for hard-working and struggling households in Plymouth. Organisations across the city have come together to offer their support for residents living in all areas, with lots of help, advice and guidance available.

Help is available...

Financial help and advice

Find out how to check you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to, get support with budgeting, saving money or dealing with debt and find advice about avoiding scams.

Energy costs

If you’re worried about energy bills, find out about the support schemes available and tips to save money.

Food costs

There are a number of organisations in Plymouth that can help if you are struggling with the cost of food, with a map showing all the different food support available across the city

Help for families

If you have children, check you’re claiming all the support that’s on offer such as free school meals, free childcare, Healthy Start and help buying school uniform.

Housing costs, bills and homelessness support

If you are at risk of becoming homeless, it’s important to ask for help as soon as you can. There’s also discounts and offers to help with other housing costs including broadband, water and TV licences.

Employment and skills support

Get help finding a new job or sign up for free courses to help improve your skills and employability.

and represent my country.”

Tash hopes to inspire other people with her story. “I want people to know that you can do anything if you put your mind to it, don’t let your disability hold you back.

“I’ve been doing sports since I was eleven years old. I started off in athletics and competed for Great Britain doing 100m and 200m sprints. Then I was a national sprinting champion for 8 years and I’ve even competed against non-disabled athletes. I got into playing blind football at the Royal National College for the Blind, I took part in their blind football sessions, and I’ve played since then.

“If you want to play sports, go to your local club and get some advice on what support can be offered to you.”

Mental health support

If you’re struggling, there are lots of local services and organisations that can help so please reach out and remember you’re not alone – there’s always someone to talk to.

Warm, welcoming spaces

During the winter months, many venues in Plymouth will open their doors to provide a warm space for anyone to spend time in.

Tash’s colleagues at Mount Gould Hospital celebrating her selection for England

Tash wearing the special headset used during the world games

Trust’s Dip in the Sea campaign aims to make big splash for families

Plymouth-based Ocean Conservation Trust has launched the Dip in the Sea campaign to support local communities and families in need gain access to seaside essentials for enjoying time at the beach.

Donations can be made directly at the National Marine Aquarium where the teams will deliver and distribute seaside equipment such as swimwear across the city to those who need it. Wanting to give people the full experience of a brilliant day at the beach, as well as swimwear, The Trust is also accepting donations of swimcaps, beach shoes, wetsuits, buoyancy aids, swim shoes, towels, googles, sun cream and buckets and spades.

Donations can be made at the National Marine Aquarium, with plans to have drop off spots across the city. No entry ticket is required for drop off, and can easily be dropped into the donation box at the Aquarium’s gift shop.

Working closely with a number of charities tackling financial hardships in Plymouth, Ocean Conservation Trust is working with local food banks and Wellbeing Hubs including Trussell Trust, William Sutton Memorial Hall, Emmanuel & St Paul’s Parish Church, City College Student Food Bank and more.

For more information on the Dip in Sea campaign and how to get involved in either hosting a donation box or helping to distribute swim packs, head to the Ocean Conservation Trust website at www. oceanconservationtrust.org/ocean-advocacy/our-campaigns/a-dip-inthe-sea-from-the-oct/

Businesses urged to react to ban on single use plastic

Trading Standards are reminding businesses, such as takeaways, sandwich bars, care homes and retailers who supply certain single use plastic items that a ban comes into force this October, and they should start thinking now about alternatives and where to source them from.

The Government has announced a ban on a wide range of plastic items that is expected to come into effect from October 1 2023. It means that from October, businesses across England will not be able to supply certain single use plastic items to the end user.

The ban includes all single use plastic cutlery, trays, plates, bowls, and balloon sticks, as well as banning the use of certain types of polystyrene cups and food containers used to supply food which is ready to consume.

From October, members of the public won’t be supplied these products from any businessthis includes retailers, takeaways, food vendors and the hospitality industry and the ban will apply to online and over-the-counter sales.

The ban includes the supply of items by businesses from new and existing stock and will cover all types of single-use plastic –including biodegradable, compostable, recycled and items wholly or partly made from plastic, including the coating or lining.

Businesses which continue to supply single use plastic items after the legislation comes into effect could be given a fine.

It is estimated that England uses 2.7 billion items of single use cutlery each year, and 721 million single use plates. Only 10% of these items are recycled.

Certain plastic items, such as straws stirrers and cotton buds, have already been banned.

Plastic pollution takes hundreds of years to break down and inflicts serious damage to our oceans, rivers, and land. It is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, from the production and manufacture of the plastic itself to the way it is disposed.

It is expected that banning these items will have a significant impact on reducing plastic waste and littering in England. Plastic cutlery, for instance, was in the top 15 most littered items in the country by count in 2020.

Businesses could:

• Swap plastic for bamboo or wooden cutlery for takeaway food

• Swap plastic for metal cutlery for in-house guests

• Swap single use plastic plates or bows to re-usable alternatives that can be washed.

• Offer paper plates instead of plastic

• Offer to refill customers’ water bottles or travel cups.

• Encourage customers to bring their own clean containers for takeaway food.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “I hope strengthening the ban to further singleuse items will encourage retailers that didn’t take heed then to urgently seek out more sustainable alternatives. It’s an essential step to help clean up our streets and protect marine life.”

Open Events:

Monday 2nd October 5pm-7pm

Wednesday 11th October 9:30am & 11:15am

Rachael Holden, group manager Business Support and Innovation for Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service said: “Businesses should use up existing stock and find alternatives to single-use items. For instance, reusing plates, bowls and cutlery, or sourcing alternative single use items such as wood-based cutlery and paper-based plates.”

Donations can be dropped off at the National Marine Aquarium

The Lion Who Never Roared - Jack Leslie biography to be published In October

As the spirit of Jack Leslie continues to flow through Plymouth Argyle with an exciting and promising start to the club’s Championship campaign, his life story is to be told in print with a biography to be published soon.

The Lion Who Never Roared is written by Matt Tiller, a lifelong member of the Green Army who co-founded The Jack Leslie Campaign with his friend and fellow fan Greg Foxsmith. It will be released in hardback and include a fantastic section of photographs, many from the Leslie family archive, by Pitch Publishing on October 23 and is available to pre-order from all good bookstores.

More information about the launch can be found at www.pitchpublishing.co.uk/shop/ lion-who-never- roared

The book tells the story of a boy born in East London to a Jamaican father and a white, English mother who was signed by Plymouth as a 19-year-old from Barking Town in 1921. He became an Argyle legend playing 400 timesand scoring 137 league and cup goals.

Jack Leslie was a pioneer.

For most of his career he was the only black player and was the first to be appointed captain of a Football League side. He is now well-known for the honour he should have won.

Jack Leslie was the first black player to be selected for England in 1925, but he was

quietly dropped due to the colour of his skin and never allowed to represent his country.

This new book tells that story in detail and his remarkable life from childhood in East London through the Argyle years to his time at West Ham United, where he worked until he was 82 cleaning the boots of World Cup winners Bobby Moore, Martin Peters and Geoff Hurst.

Matt said: “This has been an honour and a privilege to research and write. Jack’s

granddaughters have given me access to their archive and to their memories and precious family stories. Their honesty and integrity with their grandfather’s legacy has ensured this is an honest portrait of this remarkable footballer and man.

“I shared the book with them to make sure I had got all the facts straight, but I was also nervous of what they would think. When they told me they loved it I was relieved and delighted.”

Jack Leslie’s three granddaughters, Lyn, Gill and Lesley have supported the campaign from the very start and it has been hugely positive for them.

They said: “When we finished reading the book, we were in tears. It was a very emotional read and we think that’s a good thing because it eloquently describes Grandad’s life and the impact he had on all his family, friends and colleagues. To say nothing of the effect we believe the book will have on all who read it.”

Matt continued: “The more I’ve read about Jack, the more I admire him. When he was selected for England he was just hitting his stride and starting to write headlines, but in the years that followed many, and not just Argyle fans, considered him the best inside left in the country who should have represented it on many occasions.

“That must have been tough, knowing that despite his talent and his undeniable patriotism, he would never get that chance to play for England.

The Lion Who Never Roared has already received praise from those who have been given a preview, including Viv Anderson MBE. Viv was the first black player to win a full England cap in 1978, 53 years after Jack’s selection. He has contributed a foreword and says the book is ‘Inspiring and important. An extraordinary life story.’

Blooming Well therapeutic programme is a horticultural haven for cancer patients

Blooming Well’s Sheepstor base on Dartmoor is celebrating a year full of tending and growing. The therapeutic horticulture programme, designed to support cancer patients in their recovery, is delivered free to participants as part of the Mustard Tree’s personalised care in cancer provision.

Facilitated by project coordinator, Annie Charles and Mustard Tree volunteer, Nick Demeranville, six programmes have run with 31 participants – all with very different levels of gardening knowledge.

Annie said: “The free, weekly sessions give people the chance to meet with others going through similar challenges and participants seem to really appreciate this. It also provides a valuable space where they can talk about something other than cancer.”

The initiative is growing in scope, winning a University of Plymouth ‘Get Involved’ Award in May 2022 and starting a collaborative research project with associate professor of occupational therapy, Alison Warren and her colleagues at the Faculty of Health.  February 2023 saw 25 occupational therapy students volunteering with the team, getting a chance to meet and talk with participants about their ‘Blooming Well’ experiences.

“The benefits of gardening are now well-established,” said Annie Charles. “It improves physical activity levels, lifts mood, boosts self-confidence, improves a sense of wellbeing, helps re-focus attention when overwhelmed and decreases levels of stress and anxiety. However, there is very little evidence about the benefits to cancer patients, so this seemed a unique opportunity to find out more.”

The award financed the purchase of tools, raised beds and other equipment. It also helped fund transport for participants unable to

travel independently to the Dartmoor site. “We’ve had many generous donations from participants and their families, keen gardeners and local Sheepstor residents, including seeds, equipment, books, offers of help, as well as a discretionary grant from Plymouth City Council.”

The success of the programme’s first year means that Macmillan Cancer Support has pledged to fund Annie’s Award in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture. Annie and the research team have been invited to present a poster at the Macmillan Professionals Conference in Glasgow later this year.

Blooming Well reaches a diverse range of ages from some in their mid twenties up to over 80 years old.

Annie added: “We like to encompass the wider therapeutic aspects of gardening, being physically active, eating healthily, the value of just being in nature and mindfulness.”

Many of the participants continue to feel the benefits even after the programme ends. “I still feel a warm, happy, glow when I think of everyone, the garden, the setting and the generosity of the people who allowed it to happen,” said one. “You went above and beyond in everything you did for me. From advice on my own

plants at home to giving me someone to confide on at the most difficult of times. Thank you. I will be forever grateful”, said another.

Marjorie, another participant who is recovering from chemotherapy and radiotherapy, said: “I have very dear memories of those few weeks. Being with like-minded people who are also experiencing similar health problems is really helpful. The garden is in the most calming place and to be able to plant seeds, take cuttings and be given plants to take home is really confidence boosting. Nature is a great calmer and healer.”

Volunteering has been an important part of developing what Blooming Well can offer and one of the most exciting developments this year is the new polytunnel. Volunteers from building firm Tilbury Douglas donated labour, cleared the site, and installed the polytunnel itself, as well as constructing work benches.

Project manager for Tilbury Douglas, Adrian Izod, said “We enjoy giving back to communities and charities where we have projects.  As a company we are encouraged to make a difference however small. The polytunnel means that participants can start a small nursery, develop plants from seeds, grow tomatoes and other salad vegetables to assist in their recovery.”

The project has already expanded to an additional site at the Horticultural Therapy Trust’s Penlee Valley allotment in Plymouth. Annie has planned what will be needed to make the site welcoming and accessible to all.

“We will need chairs, work benches and in time to create raised beds for easier cultivation,” she explained. Blooming Well’s first year has seen fantastic growth, with a total of five programmes planned for this year and the Plymouth site welcoming its first crop of prospective gardeners in May, next year is set to flourish. For more details contact the Mustard Tree on 01752 430060, or go to their Facebook page.

Cancer care in Plymouth at ‘crisis point’ as treatments are delayed

Cancer patients at Derriford Hospital waiting up to nearly a year for cancer treatment, according to Plymouth MP Luke Pollard.

He said the Government have created a ‘crisis in cancer care’ in Plymouth, after a Freedom of Information request found that cancer patients at Derriford Hospital are waiting up to nearly a year for cancer treatment.

Data sourced by the Labour Party through an FOI request has revealed patients at Derriford Hospital are facing long waits for cancer care, showing that:

Patients face waits of up to 311 days for their tests and scans and up to 191 days for a diagnosis or to have cancer ruled out.   Patients are waiting up to 99 days to see a cancer specialist after their GP has urgently referred them to hospital.

Some patients are forced to wait 33 days to start cancer treatment.

Luke, who had to take a month-long break from politics in March after being diagnosed and treated for skin cancer, praised NHS staff at Derriford Hospital for ‘working their socks off’ under difficult conditions, stating that Government Ministers must accept blame for growing NHS waiting lists.

Cllr Mary Aspinall, Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said the figures were ‘deeply worrying.’

She added: “They will cause concern to Plymouth residents who are either on the pathway themselves or who have family or friends on it. The government needs to urgently address the causes for the delays. Plymouth deserves better.”

Waiting times for cancer patients in England have worsened every year since the Conservatives came to power in 2010.

The Government is now set to cut two thirds of existing cancer waiting times standards for patients this week. The latest figures revealed that the NHS met none of its cancer targets in June 2023.

Luke said:  “The Tories have created a crisis in cancer care, leaving patients in Plymouth waiting dangerously long for a diagnosis or treatment when their cancer could be spreading.

“NHS staff are working their socks off. The blame for soaring waiting lists should not be put on staff but on out of touch Ministers who are presiding over the highest waiting lists in NHS history.

“The Conservatives cannot be trusted to address the problems in our NHS. We need a Labour government to get cancer patients diagnosed and treated on time again.”

The Labour Party has committed to cut cancer waiting times down to safe levels. The party’s plans to deliver better cancer care include training thousands more doctors and nurses every year, providing NHS staff with up-to-date modern technology, and reforming the health service so it catches cancer earlier.

Annie and Nick at Sheepstor

Participants planting at Blooming Well

Busy building the polytunnel

Top ratings for Arts University Plymouth

Students have rated Arts University Plymouth above the national benchmark in all categories of the National Student Survey (NSS) 2023.

This year Arts University Plymouth was the highest scoring arts university in the UK in five of the seven NSS categories: teaching on my course, learning opportunities, assessment and feedback, learning resources and student voice, when compared against the UK’s seven other well-respected arts universities – Arts University Bournemouth, Falmouth University, Leeds Arts University, Norwich University of the Arts, Ravensbourne University, University for the Creative Arts, and University of the Arts London.

Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks, ViceChancellor at Arts University Plymouth said: “We are delighted that our students have voted with confidence for their student experience, and we are pleased that our compelling offer has been recognised in the National Survey 2023.

“Once again we sit in excellent company amongst our peers, signalling the strength of the UK’s specialist arts higher education sector.

“We believe that Arts University Plymouth has a major part to play in creating opportunities for creative people of all ages, and we will continue to use the student voice and the importance of an excellent student experience to guide everything that we do.”

This result builds on other recent successes, with students voting Arts University Plymouth the top arts university in the UK for overall student satisfaction in the NSS 2022 and the university achieving Silver

in the Small or Specialist Institution category of the Whatuni Student Choice Awards in 2023 and Gold in the same category in 2022. The university is currently also ranked as a top 10 university in the  Arts, Drama & Music League Table 2024 in the Complete University Guide.

Standout courses in the NSS 2023 included BA (Hons) Fine Art, with an overall positive response rate of 94%, BA (Hons) Illustration at 90%, and BA (Hons) Interior Decoration, Design & Styling at 90%.

Arts University Plymouth is now the highest scoring specialist arts university in the UK for the NSS category of Learning Resources, recognising the ease of access to worldleading facilities, equipment and subjectspecific specialist resources such as Fab Lab Plymouth, Plymouth Arts Cinema, the

to what really matters

Multimedia and Photography studios, Materials Lab (including hot glass and ceramics), Drawing Lab and Fashion and Textile studios.

Staff were delighted that 82% of Arts University Plymouth students completed the NSS this year, significantly above the national average of just 71.5%, demonstrating the high rate of engagement from Arts University Plymouth students despite the difficult period for students nationally preceding the survey, which measured the satisfaction of over 300,000 final year UK undergraduate students

Some of the comments from students who completed the 2023 National Student Survey include: “I honestly believe I picked the best arts university to go to. I went to so many open days across the UK and no one’s resources compare to Arts University

Plymouth. The staff are so incredibly passionate and encouraging. There isn’t a bad word I could say about Arts University Plymouth.”

Another student said: “I feel like being at Arts University Plymouth has definitely been the right decision in terms of teaching time, one-to-one teaching with my tutors, and how I have improved as a creative as a whole. The teaching as a whole has been superb!”

In addition 91% of Arts University Plymouth students responded positively to the newest NSS question, ‘During your studies, how free did you feel to express your ideas, opinions and beliefs?’ demonstrating how hard academics at the arts university work to create a campus culture where all students thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Arts University Plymouth is now the highest scoring specialist arts university in the UK for the NSS category of Learning Resources, recognising the ease of access to world-leading facilities, equipment and subject-specific specialist resources such as those pictured above

New housing development in Southway under way

Westward’s latest two housing developments in Southway and Pllympton will provide 18 affordable homes.

Building work began recently with Homes England funding and recycled grant funding from Westward for both sites. All the homes are being constructed by local business and first-time partners for Westward, Classic Builders.

All properties on both sites will benefit from photovoltaic solar panels to assist with fast-rising energy costs and support environmental and sustainability strategies.

Two shared ownership and three affordable rent properties will be built at St Peter’s Close in Plympton, ready for occupancy next summer.  The two two-bed bungalows for shared ownership and three one-bed bungalows for social rent will be adaptable for accessibility, with one of the larger one-bed bungalows being already fully wheelchair accessible.

FUNDING BOOST FOR PLYMOUTH ARTS CINEMA

Plymouth Arts Cinema has been awarded £120,000 from the BFI National Lottery Audience Projects Fund, to span three years from August 2023 to March 2026.

Staff and trustees are delighted to receive the support of the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding .

As the only independent cinema covering a wide area of South West of England between Totnes and Falmouth, Plymouth Arts Cinema is based at Arts University Plymouth and embedded within the local community.

To continue to provide a vital part of the Plymouth cultural offer, Plymouth Arts Cinema has pledged to nurture the next generation of film lovers.

The funding will be used to bring the magic of cinema to three defined groups: those whose socio-economic position makes accessing cultural cinema difficult; families and young people who feel excluded from cultural cinema, and more diverse audiences who more accurately reflect the changing demographics of the city. It will work with charity partners and cultural organisations across Plymouth.

Plymouth Arts Cinema is committed to making cinema affordable to all. A recent pilot of a ‘no questions asked’ £4 budget ticket price was very well received and successful in welcoming new audiences, and the BFI funding will allow this to continue.

Paul Brookes, chair of the PAC board, said “Plymouth continues to be a place where the arts and heritage flourish. At the height of the pandemic, it was a difficult time for us and other organisations, but audiences are now returning, though still not quite in the numbers we achieved before then. It remains a crucial time for the cinema, given the cost-ofliving crisis. This funding for three years gives Plymouth Arts Cinema the ability to attract new audiences for great cinema from around the world, to have a sustainable future, and to continue to subsidise the ticket prices, keeping them affordable when so many things have become more expensive.”

Anna Navas, director and film programmer at PAC, said “It is a huge testament to the hard work we put into creating a film programme that can be daring, boundary-pushing and entertaining. We work hard to make sure there is something for everyone in our cinema.”

The homes offer the opportunity to downsize for those who now need less bedroom space.The land was owned by Plymouth City Council and sold to Westward at a discount for redevelopment to include accessible homes as a priority.

The bungalows will also each have an electric vehicle charging point.

Westward’s assistant director of Development, Jon Mutter, said: “I am delighted that we are able to bring these new homes to Plymouth for those who need them to suit their range of needs. We are committed to making sure that more people in our region have a place that they can call home.

“We also like to make use of regeneration sites such as in this instance.  This development is a further example of us working with local firm Classic Builders to build the houses on both sites, so we are not only providing affordable housing but also supporting employment in the city.”

In addition, the regeneration site at Moses Close

in Southway providing 13 much needed affordable homes. This will be welcomed by residents nearby as a restart on site following the delays caused by a previous contractor ceasing trading.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “I’m really pleased these schemes are progressing. The council is committed to working with partners to get good quality affordable housing built in Plymouth.

“I’d like to thank Westward Housing, Homes England and Classic Builders for the work they are doing to make that happen on these sites in Southway and Plympton.

“The council has been pleased to do our bit, and I’m looking forward to watching the schemes move forward and people moving into their new homes there next year.”

The 13 homes will be at social rent rates and provide an apartment block of six one-bed flats

designed for couples including two ground floor accessible and adaptable homes.

These are alongside a terrace of six two-bed houses designed for three people each, plus an end of terrace bungalow.

There is an Employment and Skills Plan for the site which means delivery of a certain number of training hours through the project – whether this be on-site construction worker hours, subcontracting electricians, or design work in the office.

The Moses Close homes will feature private gardens and the flats also benefit from a shared communal garden in this established residential area. The parking area will include dedicated spaces for any accessibility needs.

The rental homes at both sites will be marketed on Devon Home Choice, available from summer 2024. Shared ownership homes at St Peter’s Close will be sold through Westward.

Plymouth student named as Apprentice of the Year

A painting and decorating apprentice studying at City College Plymouth, has been named Apprentice of the Year by a national trade body.

Ysabella Payn, an apprentice at Bell Group, was named winner of the Junior Apprentice of the Year competition at the annual Premier Trophy Awards hosted by the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA).

Ysabella, who lives in Stoke, tackled two gruelling days of competition painting designed to test her stamina and skill as part of the contest, which attracted a record 65 participants this year.

The Junior and Senior winners of Apprentice of the Year 2023 were announced at the PDA’s Premier Trophy Awards ceremony held at Plaisterers’ Hall, London.

PDA Chief Executive Neil Ogilvie said: “In previous years, the top scorer from the three

in action at

regional heats would secure the prize, but due to demand, for the first time this year, we introduced a fourth regional heat in Scotland and a Grand Final.

“To achieve this award, Ysabella tackled two complex painting projects that both had to be completed within six hours and demanded high levels of precision and perseverance.

“She has done incredibly well to achieve the top scores in both the regional heat and Grand Final and so be named Junior Apprentice of the Year 2023.

“Ysabella represented Bell Group and City College Plymouth with professionalism and pride and has made an amazing start to her career in colour.”

Sponsors of the competition included Crown Paints, CITB, Purdy Professional Painting Tools, Valspar Trade and Ciret UK.

Ysabella said: “I felt very proud of myself when I won the award, it was nice to receive

recognition for all the practice and work I put in to preparing for the competition.

“I really enjoyed the awards event, it was nice to speak to other people within the industry especially the other prize winners from the apprentice of the year competition.

“It was also good to represent Bell Group and City College Plymouth as they’ve both really helped me in my career.

“I would definitely recommend the competition to other apprentices, it’s a good opportunity to develop your skills and further your career. It helps with your technical skills as well as organisation and speed.

“I was able to make good friends while competing and met lots of people similar to me.”

The PDA is the UK’s largest trade body for the painting and decorating sector. For more information, or to find a PDA member locally, visit: www.paintingdecoratingassociation. co.uk

Ysabella Payn, Junior Apprentice of the Year at the Painting and Decorating Association’s Premier Trophy Awards

Ysabella

the PDA Apprentice of the Year competition event

Spanish galleon heads to Plymouth after all

A full size replica of a 17th century Spanish galleon will now visit Plymouth in September after an earlier visit had to be postponed.

El Galéon will be moored in the Barbican and be open to locals and visitors to the city to step onboard to explore the ‘living museum’ during her stay.

The impressive tall ship is nearly 50 metres in length and will be impossible to miss when she arrives in Plymouth for the visit between September 13 and 17.

As a floating museum, members of the public will be able to go onboard and explore the ship’s six decks which offer a fascinating range of features, exhibits and displays.

El Galéon’s live-in crew will also be on hand to

UK BREAKS

talk to visitors and explain more about the ship and the history behind the Spanish galleon fleet which were used predominantly between the 16th and 18th centuries and took the lead role in many of the world’s trade and cultural routes that were the longest in length and duration than any other in the history of maritime navigation.

The visit to the Galleon consists of a self-guided walking tour. Once on board, visitors are free to wander its decks, talk to and contemplate dozens of interactive exhibits, videos, projections and historical documents. Photos are allowed.

Opening hours: 10am to 8pm from September 13 to 17. Tickets available at www.tickets.velacuadra.

es Prices: Children 5-10 years old £5 (under 5 free); Adults £10; Families (2 adults and up to three children between 5 and 10 years old): £25

By Coach from Plymouth & Saltash

FOLKESTONE & CANTERBURY

New telephone clinic helps patients with breast pain to receive early diagnosis

A new telephone clinic has been developed at Derriford Hospital to help patients who present at their GPs with breast pain.

Breast pain is the most common breast-related complaint in primary care and approximately 70% of females will experience breast pain at some point in their lives.

Patients can experience breast pain for several reasons, but breast pain alone is not a sign of cancer.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing to provide an efficient and effective service was challenging and alternative options and adaptations had to be explored. Patients could not be seen face to face with the need to limit footfall through the hospital.

Hence the Breast Care service was restructured. This included the initiation of a telephone clinic for patients with breast pain.

The initiative was introduced to provide a service where breast pain patients could safely be assessed and managed without needing to attend the hospital during the pandemic.

The new pathway, which is led by physician associate Chrystal Jumbo and clinical director Maria Verroiotou, has now been audited and re-audited and it has been found to work effectively and

therefore has continued.

Previously, patients presenting with breast pain would be seen at the one stop symptomatic clinic within the Breast Service Line at Derriford. However, appointments are restricted to 10-minute slots, and it was felt by the team that breast pain patients required more time.

The telephone appointments are 20 to 30 minutes long which provides breast pain patients with the necessary time to discuss their breast pain in depth, helping them feel listened to and understood.

Appointments can also take place from the comfort of the patient’s home which can help them feel more at ease when discussing their symptoms.

Another benefit of the new pathway is that it has helped to free up capacity at the one stop symptomatic clinic for patients with suspected breast cancer.

Throughout the initiative there have been no cases of breast cancer in breast pain patients.

The service also provides an opportunity for clinicians to share education and further information on breast care to help support patients in the future as well.

Following the telephone consultations, patients are invited to provide feedback via a survey. So far, patients have reported positive experiences with the service.

Departing Mon 6 Nov ‘23

It’s time to Jingle All the Way to Folkestone and enjoy some pre-Christmas festivities at our fabulous hotel! With plenty of delicious Christmas food, a 2-4-1 bar offer and entertainment throughout our stay – we can be certain of a fabulous five-days away!

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast (includes traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner)

 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

 After-dinner tea and coffee

 Light entertainment every evening

 Excursions to Canterbury & Rochester

Optional excursion to Sandwich (£8pp)

5 Days by Coach ly £239

Departing Fri 10 Nov ‘23

The Edwardian harbour town of Folkestone and the classic backdrop of Canterbury provide the whimsical settings for a festive breakaway to Canterbury Christmas Market, full of delightful treats to kick off your Christmas season.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 3 nights at the 2-star Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast

 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

 Entertainment every evening

 Free time in Folkestone

 Excursions to Sandwich & Canterbury

4 Days by Coach ly £199

Departing Sat 25 Nov ‘23

Enjoy the magical, award-winning Christmas Market in the beautiful city of Bath! With a huge range of traders providing a variety of handmade and local Christmas offerings in chalet-style stalls, there is plenty to take in to get you into the festive spirit.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Plymouth & Saltash

 Overnight stay at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast

 Visit to Bath Christmas Market

 En-route visit to a mystery location

2 Days by Coach ly £119

Lydia takes the plunge to raise funds for bowel cancer charity

A Plymouth woman who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in her late twenties is taking on the challenge to swim 15 kilometres in August to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK.

Lydia Cook, who lives in Eggbuckland, was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer 15 years ago, so she thought it was a fitting time to take part in the Swim15 challenge and raise money for Bowel Cancer UK.

Every 15 minutes someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK, making it the fourth most common cancer.

Bowel Cancer UK’s Swim15 fundraising event takes place in August and asks people to get sponsored to complete their own swimming challenge that incorporates the number 15. Whether that’s 15 laps a day, swimming for 15 days or racking up 15km throughout the month, each fundraiser can set their own goals that suits their fitness. The funds raised will help stop people dying of bowel cancer by raising awareness of the disease, and funding vital services and lifesaving research.

Lydia, aged 42 said: “I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer when I was only 27 years old. I had three very young children at the time and was so scared of not being around to see them grow up. I faced operations, living with a stoma while my bowel healed and intensive chemotherapy. These were very challenging times, but I’m here to tell my story and want to raise awareness and help others to tell theirs.

“I have chosen to swim 15km in August because I enjoy a challenge, and it’s been 15 years since my diagnosis. It’s so important to keep raising money and awareness for this charity so they can continue to help save lives and support people who are living with bowel cancer.”

Luke Squires, director of fundraising at Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer every 15 minutes in the UK, but it’s treatable and curable if diagnosed early.

The funds raised by our Swim15 challenge will help us continue to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by the disease.

“We are so grateful to Lydia for taking part in Swim15 and really inspired by her for speaking so openly about her diagnosis and treatment. Make a splash this August and join us in helping to create a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer.”

Anyone who is ready to take the plunge, whether it’s in open water or a pool, grab your goggles and help stop people dying of bowel cancer. Sign up today for Bowel Cancer UK’s Swim15 challenge and get a free swimming badge: bowelcanceruk.org.uk/Swim15

Bowel cancer victim Lydia Cook

Groundbreaking Port Agreement will drive growth at Millbay Docks

Plymouth City Council, Millbay Docks and the dock’s major customer Brittany Ferries have pledged to work together to support the docks to grow and to work towards Net Zero by signing a Memorandum of Understanding.

The move will support Millbay Docks  as a key economic driver for Plymouth and work towards the Council’s ambition to become Net Zero by 2030.

The memorandum was signed by Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, Christophe Mathieu, chief executive of Brittany Ferries and Henrik Pedersen, chief executive of Associated British Ports (ABP) and commits all partners to working together to ensure Millbay Docks enjoys a sustained era of clean, green and good growth, with investment to future proof facilities at the docks for years to come.

It came as the city welcomed thousands of visitors for the British Firework Championships, with Brittany Ferries marking its 50th year of service by becoming a major partner in the event.

Millbay Docks, owned and operated by ABP, covers 50 acres of port estate and is home to Brittany Ferries services, connecting the South West to France and Spain. It handles 400,000 passengers and 150,000 vehicles per year, as well as 80,000 tonnes of cargo each year, contributing to over £95m to the UK economy.

Millbay Docks is less than a mile from the city centre and its geographical advantages ensure that it is well placed to continue to serve established European trade routes as well as the growing cruise market via its two dedicated berths.

The three parties will work together to bring forward improvements and business development opportunities, for the mutual benefit of the docks, the parties and the wider port and city of Plymouth, in the following areas:

• A shared ambition for Millbay Docks to be Net Zero by 2030 supporting new green jobs and investment

• To maximise the impact of planned capital projects, including quayside passenger access and freight improvements

• To identify grant funding opportunities for investment in shore power, assisting in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vessels visiting the docks

• To develop the freight opportunity for Millbay utilising the Freeport, underlining the importance of trade between France, Spain and the United Kingdom

• To increase inbound tourism and cruise working with Destination Plymouth and other regional bodies.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “Port cities such as Plymouth have the advantage when it comes to working towards net zero. Transporting goods by ship is one of the cleanest ways of getting products from A to B.

“Millbay Docks has huge potential to be a major player for new freight opportunities, particularly as part of our Freeport status.

“We’re really keen to work closely with them to explore all avenues that create new jobs and are particularly excited about the prospect of green jobs and marine innovation that Plymouth leads the field in.

“We need to do more and we can do more to keep Plymouth ahead of the competition.

That’s what this Memorandum is about.”

Associated British Ports’ chief executive, Henrik Pedersen, said: “This year has seen the launch of our wide-ranging new sustainability strategy, ‘Ready for Tomorrow’, which outlines our plan to invest £2 billion in decarbonising our own port operations by 2040, and in major infrastructure projects to enable the wider UK energy transition.

“If we are going to make Net Zero a reality, it is essential there is a partnership approach, which is why we are delighted to be working with Plymouth City Council and Brittany Ferries to support greener growth for Millbay Docks and Plymouth more broadly.”

Christophe Mathieu, chief executive of Brittany Ferries added: “We are delighted to support this strong message of collaboration and intent with the city and Plymouth Port.

“We have proudly operated from Plymouth since the company’s inception in 1973. Fifty years on we are looking forward to a shared future built on economic growth, more crossborder trade and sustainable operations at sea and while in port.”

RAIN GARDENS WORK UNDER WAY IN NEW GEORGE STREET

Preparation work ahead of a significant phase of work on New George Street is underway.

Contractors Morgan Sindall will start creating rain gardens in New George Street as part of the new ‘Sustainable Urban Drainage’ system (SUDs).

The first of eight large holes in the ground will be reinforced and layered with material so that at times of very heavy rainfall, the area will be protected from flooding and the water used to irrigate new plants and trees that will be planted there. The rain gardens range in size from 15.3 cubic metres to 128.6 cubic metres and collectively will be able to handle up to 421 cubic metres of rainwater.

In order to carry out the work, the contractors need more space around the holes, so from this week the hoardings and the giant blocks that weigh them down will be moved from the House of Fraser side of the construction site. In its place will be temporary fencing and acoustic screening to reduce the level of site noise.

Work began on site in November 2021 with ground investigation, drainage, service diversions and site clearance with the enabling contractor. This was completed in April 2022. Morgan Sindall Ltd were awarded the next phase of works in August 2022, but also encountered significant problems digging beneath a city centre that was hastily rebuilt after the war. Voids, Blitz rubble, filled-in cellars and a maze of utilities has slowed the scheme down. The design team returned to the drawing board to ensure that the plans adapted to these unstable conditions. This design review is now complete and the construction team will be back on site next week (14 August).

Deep beneath New George Street a section of the planned new storm water sewer has now been created. Excess water from the rain gardens will feed into the new system, taking rain water away from the combined sewer and helping to guard against future flooding.

The new system comprises a series of large plastic pipes – the largest 1.5 metres across and acts as a storage system during heavy rain, holding around 215 cubic metres of rainwater and releasing this gradually via a constrained outfall, known as a hydrobrake.

Rain that falls onto hard surfaces in New George Street will be first captured by the rain gardens, which collect water and irrigates the trees and plants which will be planted there. Eventually this system will link up with the new sustainable urban drainage scheme for Armada Way.

Cabinet Member for Finance Councillor Mark Lowry said: “We said we would get these projects moving again and we are. We need to get our city centre opened back up and cleaned up.

“Traders, residents and visitors need to see our city centre looking its best and this has taken far too long. We are committed to getting this done as fast as we possibly can.”

Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “We have been disappointed with the delays to this scheme and have been pressing the council for some time to speed things up.“We are pleased that there now appears to be a renewed sense of urgency and look forward to the improvements and the re-opening of that section of New George Street in time for Christmas shopping which will be vital for our businesses.”

Tesco’s huge fundraising donation for Children’s Hospice South West

Kind-hearted colleagues at Plymouth’s Tesco stores were among those donating more than £45,000 to help youngsters with life-limiting conditions.

The money was given to Children’s Hospice South West after stores across the region chose the hospice as their charity of the year and set about organising a wide range of funfilled activities to help the 500-plus children currently receiving care.

Tesco colleagues took part in the hospice’s Rainbow Run Your Way fundraiser, put on a special It’s a Knockout competition, arranged fetes, football matches, head-shaving events, sponsored cycle rides, face-painting, fancy dress, coffee mornings, bake sales, book donations, and many others.

At the end of the year’s sponsored events, they had collected a total of £45,089.15. All the funds will go to the hospice’s three sites – Little Bridge House in Barnstaple, Little Harbour in St Austell, and Charlton Farm near Bristol.

Gary Wills, store manager at Tesco Plymouth, said: “We couldn’t be happier with the total we’ve raised. It’s a huge amount collected thanks to the kindness of a huge amount of people, including our generous customers who really got behind us.

“The work that staff do at Children’s Hospice South West is truly incredible. They make such a difference to the children and to the families of children who are there. It’s amazing.

“I know that the three hospice sites are a lifeline to families, offering resilience stays, emergency visits, home support, end-of-life care and bereavement support.

“Without them, I don’t know what the families and their children would do, and that’s why we selected Children’s Hospice South West as our charity for the year.”

It costs Children’s Hospice South West more than £12million a year to run its three children’s hospices, with more than 85 per

cent coming from voluntary donations.

Annabel Roberts, area fundraiser for Children’s Hospice South West, said: “On behalf of all of the children and families that we support, I would like to say thank you to all the participating Tesco stores for all their hard work fundraising and for giving us such a generous donation.

“We really do rely on the support of the local community to ensure we can keep providing vital care to families, and it means so much to us that Tesco staff and customers are part of this.”

Further information about Children’s Hospice South West is available at www.chsw.org.uk

Independent company will gather views on new Armada Way designs

An independent company has been commissioned to deliver the consultation on the new scheme for Armada Way, later this autumn.

While work continues on the new proposed design for Armada Way, Plymouth City Council has engaged an independent company – ECF – to lead on the management, delivery and evaluation of the public consultation that will gather insight to help shape the final design. Working with external experts to deliver the consultation provides reassurance that the process will be fair, transparent and in line with industry guidance and best practice.

ECF (Engage, Communicate and Facilitate) is a communications and engagement consultancy that specialises in supporting environmental, healthcare and renewable energy projects across the country.

The team designs and delivers bespoke communications and engagement campaigns that help bring their clients and the communities they work with closer together. Their expertise ensures that projects are transparent, robust, and inclusive. They are members of both the Consultation Institute and the International Association of Public Participation, and their work meets the standards set out by those organisations.

Councillor Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said:

“Over the past few months we have been reviewing the previous consultations that have been undertaken regarding Armada Way. It is important that our new design considers this feedback, whilst bringing forward further ideas to help rejuvenate and bring life back to the city centre.

“We want genuine consultation on those elements of the scheme that are different to the old scheme.

“We want this process to be beyond reproach and, importantly, to provide an opportunity for those seldom heard-from voices to have their chance to have their say.

“ECF are experts in this field. They will be designing and delivering a consultation that will reach out to businesses, families, young people, shoppers, those who live in the city centre and those who are frequent visitors.

“Over the next few weeks they will be reaching out to key partners and organisations in the city to discuss their plans for the consultation and ensure that as many people as possible are given the opportunity to be involved.”

More information about the consultation will be published in the next few weeks. It is hoped that the consultation will launch in the autumn.

Annabel Roberts of Children’s Hospice South West and Tesco store manager Gary Wills with the bumper cheque

PLYMOUTH

Plymouth - Know Your Numbers Week 2023

September 2023 sees the 23rd anniversary of Know your Numbers! Week. It’s never too early OR late to start checking your blood pressure. Your blood pressure is very important no matter your age. A blood pressure check is included as part of our NHS Health Checks appointments. Are you’re aged between

1ST TUESDAY IN THE MONTH FOUR GREEN WHITLEIGH

3 October

7 November

5 December

40 and 75 years old and haven’t had a Health Check in the past 5 years? Why not contact the team today to arrange your free 40 minute NHS Health Check? We will be able to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and body mass index (BMI) and can offer advice and support on the steps you can take to improve your health and feel better for longer. Below you’ll find a list of our Health Check clinic dates.

2ND TUESDAY

Next Month is Stoptober: The 28 Day Stop Smoking Challenge

See what happens when you feel real improvements to your physical health and seriously boost your bank balance like Paul. Paul started smoking when he was 18 and by his late 40s was smoking about 10 small cigars a day before he became smokefree.

He tried quitting a few times in the past without success. Then he tried an e-cigarette and found it really helped to gently transition his mind and body away from tobacco.

Although vapes may require a little getting used to, he found them very satisfying:  “Vaping dealt with the habit side of smoking as it replicated the action of smoking and satisfied my hand to mouth addiction.”

Vaping gave him the enjoyment of smoking without the harmful

chemicals. He really liked how much ‘cleaner’ vaping felt, containing no tar, no carcinogenic toxins and didn’t leave him smelling of smoke.

“I really didn’t like smelling of smoke, and it’s even worse with cigars. One of the biggest advantages to vaping is that it doesn’t leave you smelling of smoke. The smell of vaping is generally pleasant – in my case, mostly strawberry!”.

He also noticed real improvements to his health: “When I switched to vaping I noticed a difference to my physical health. I started to breathe more easily. Within two months of quitting I found that I could easily climb steep tors on Dartmoor. I walked straight up the tors without stopping, whereas before I would stop to catch my breath”.

“When it came to smoking breaks at work, it’s much quicker to have a few puffs of vape than smoking

a whole cigarette. Also, most workplaces are smokefree but they will allow vaping outside.”

Over time Paul reduced the strength of nicotine. He started at 18 mg, then went down to 12 mg and now he uses the 6mg fluid. “I started off trying several different flavours, now I generally have fruit flavour with a cool mint, which is refreshing; a bit like cleaning your teeth!”

In addition, Paul was delighted at how much money he has saved since quitting tobacco: “It’s safe to say that vaping is much cheaper than smoking! The cost of cigarettes is so expensive, I’ve saved so much money.”

Paul offers the following advice to anyone considering quitting smoking using a vape: “Start off on the highest nicotine level and reduce it over time. Persevere with it as it is different to smoking. Play around with the different flavours until you find one you really like.”

To start your smoke free journey or to book an NHS Health Check appointment please contact 01752 437177 or email oneyou.plymouth@nhs.net

Paul finished the interview by saying:

“There just isn’t anything positive about smoking. The harm and the cost is just not worth it. Vaping is so much safer than smoking tobacco, it’s worth giving it a try.”

Be like Paul and give quitting a go this Stoptober. Quit smoking for 28 days and you’re five times more likely to quit for good.

 For free, friendly support call:

01752 437177 or email:

oneyou.plymouth@nhs.net 

You’ve Got This!

Could you deliver the Plymouth Chronicle?

Larry’s Lousy Liver Appeal

Gables Dogs & Cats Home has recently taken in an 18-month old cat called ‘Larry’ who is in need of urgent medical care and life saving surgery.

On arrival at Gables he was very wobbly and it was discovered he was having seizures. Gables contracted vets Filham Park carried out tests which indicate he has a portosystemic (liver) shunt. It is believed he was born with this condition, where the toxins in his blood are not filtered out by his liver and instead travel to his brain.

This causes him to have episodes where he becomes very wobbly, disorientated and dribbles.  He is currently taking medication every 12 hours to manage this condition but

it is not effective long term. Even on the medication he still has seizure style episodes which take two to three days for him to recover from.

To help with this fatal condition

Larry has been referred to High Grove Referral Centre in Bristol so he can have a CT scan to investigate his condition and to plan for lifesaving surgery to correct the liver shunt.

Gables deputy manager, Ruth Rickard said: “He is such a lovely character and it is heart breaking to see him suffering with these episodes. He is only a young cat so we hope that the specialist surgery he desperately needs will enable him to live a normal life. We are currently medicating him every 12 hours, which he tolerates well. He is

always so pleased to see me in the evenings and is a pleasure to care for. He has lots of love to give to a new owner once he is well enough to be adopted.”

It is estimated it will cost Gables £7,000 for all the treatment, scans, specialist surgery and medication that Larry will need now and into the future, as well as basic care such as flea and worm treatment and vaccinations.

An informative and entertaining talk about beekeeping through the centuries by Terry McAuliffe of Holly Park Apiaries was the main event at the monthly meeting of the Inner Wheel Club of Roborough.

Terry’s slide show led members through the history of bees, the different types of bee, the mating activities of bees and the keeping of bees. It all finished with a taste of his delicious honey.

President Bridget Hayman presented Terry with a tealight holder, complete with decorative bee. Bees are the theme for the International Inner Wheel convention in Manchester next May. For more information about the group email IWRoborough@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page Inner Wheel Roborough.

Gables Dogs & Cats Home does not receive any government funding and has felt the financial strain from the cost of living crisis, but they are determined to help Larry.

Readers can help to ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to ‘Larry’s Lousy Liver Vet Appeal’, by calling 01752 331602 or visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/ larryslousyliverappeal to donate online.

The Box partners with National Gallery for major arts project

The Triumph of Art, the National Gallery’s commission to round off its Bicentenary year, has announced the partners it will be working with, to develop, produce and deliver the project – and The Box in Plymouth is one of them.

Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller will be celebrating festivals, gatherings, and art in the public realm, in this UK-wide performance work.

The Box will join Mostyn in Llandudno, The Playhouse in Derry/Londonderry and Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design in Dundee as partners with the National Gallery. Together, they will recruit four specialist curators, each of whom will be seconded to a partner to work on The Triumph of Art. The research, public programme and performances that result will be developed with close links to their local communities and geography.

Deller’s inspiration for the new work comes from the important role

of art as encountered in our public collections, museums and cultural spaces: from Renaissance paintings to folklore, dances, plays and rave culture.

Each partner will research, develop and stage a local performance piece. All four projects will then join together in a major performance outside the National Gallery, on Trafalgar Square in July 2025.

Deller has been researching and cataloguing events on the Square as a history of celebration,

commemoration and demonstration, collecting countless instances of joy and art in activism. The Triumph of Art will bring ‘NG200’, the National Gallery’s year-long festival of art to celebrate its 200th anniversary to an end, and look to the start of the Gallery’s next century.

Jeremy Deller said, “I’m looking forward to working with partners across all four nations to create something epic to mark the Gallery’s 200 years.”

Emily Stone, Project Curator at the

National Gallery, said, “We couldn’t have found better partners to work with for this commission – they represent a fantastic combination of history and heritage, and emerging talent. Researching places of joy and gathering has unearthed some very exciting ideas that showcase both individuality and common ground across the UK. We’re excited to find four brilliant curators to bring together local communities with an unparalleled celebration in Trafalgar Square.”

Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller

Photo: Stretch New Media

The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square

NEW CAFÉ AND WAKE FACILITY TAKE SHAPE

Council to sign charter to tackle antisocial behaviour and crime

Plymouth City Council is signing up to the Community Safety Charter, with the aim of eliminating harassment, antisocial behaviour, and intimidation in the city. The Community Safety Charter is a scheme which sits under the Neighbourhood Watch banner. The aim is to involve a wider range of local organisations, charities, businesses and groups in crime prevention activity and to extend this work towards a goal of eliminating harassment, antisocial behaviour, and intimidation experienced by anyone who lives, works, studies or visits anywhere in England and Wales.

Plymouth City Council will pledge to continue:

• Enabling others to identify and take an active stance against these crimes and incidents

One of the most unique features of Plymouth’s new crematorium is beginning to take shape.

Recent photographs show how the buildings at the new crematorium off Haye Road in Plymptom are taking shape. Photos courtesy of Plymouth City Council

• Actively encouraging and supporting those who experience or witness these crimes and incidents to report them to the relevant authorities

• Supporting those affected and signposting

those who need further support to agencies who can help them.

The Council will work with  agencies and organisations and encourage the city to become invested in signing up to this charter, such as Plymouth Citybus, who have already signed up to the charter and are promoting this on their vehicles throughout the city.

Any individual, community group, Neighbourhood Watch scheme, business, charity or other organisation in England and Wales can sign up for free, including schools and universities, community centres, taxi firms, and public places.

More information about signing up can be found at www.ourwatch.org.uk/charterAnyone who is being impacted by anti-social behaviour, can report this to Plymouth City Council by visiting www.plymouth.gov.uk/report-anti-socialbehaviourVictims of anti-social behaviour who need support, can contact Victim Support for free and impartial advice on 0808 16 89 111. For further information, please see their website www. victimsupport.org.uk

Crucially, though, it will also be available for families hire for wakes, with rooms to accommodate up to 40 guests.

The new crematorium, off Haye Road in Plympton, is being constructed by the Kier Group and will be known as The Park. It is due to open in Spring 2024.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Cemeteries & Crematoria, said: “This is another crucial construction milestone on the journey to The Park, Plymouth’s new, state-of-the-art crematorium.

“Although the café is only a very small part of the project overall, it’s fantastic to see it taking shape.

“We know not just from our research but from our own experience in attending funerals that often people come from far and wide, they stand around outside, they want to catch up before and sometimes after, and they’ve got nowhere to go.

“By having this facility on site, but slightly away from the main crematorium, we’ll be able to make what can be pretty tough days that little bit easier for people.”

The new crematorium, which will open in 2024, has designs inspired by the landscape, the buildings will nestle into the slope of the site and will be surrounded by pooled water. Plymouth Limestone is being used and with windows that will provide lots of light and stunning views out over the water, and the local Devonshire scenery and beyond.

Outside, reflective spaces, designed for memorialisation and scatterings will embrace the local environment and ecology.

In addition, the site will benefit from a new café, which will be open to serve refreshments for people attending funerals and also for those visiting the site to pay their respects. It will also be available for families to hire for wakes.

When the new crematorium is built, it will replace existing facilities at Efford and Weston Mill, which will continue to be active for burial and memorials. More information on plans for the new crematorium can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/futurecrem

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Located away from the main building, near the entrance to the site, the café will be open to serve refreshments for people attending funerals and also for those visiting the site to pay their respects.

• Promoting a culture that does not tolerate antisocial behaviour, harassment, intimidation and hostility towards others

TEMPORARY CT SCANNER IN CITY’S WEST END WILL HELP TAKE PRESSURE OFF DERRIFORD HOSPITAL

Plans are underway to prepare for the opening of a temporary CT scanner unit in the West End of Plymouth City Centre.

The site in Colin Campbell Court has been earmarked for one of eight new Community Diagnostic Centres across the country and help regenerate the city centre and provide wider access to critical diagnostic tests. The temporary CT scanner will be in place by the end of September, while the design and build of the permanent building, also at Colin Campbell Court, continues.

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

Stuart Windsor, Future Hospitals director at University Hospitals Plymouth, said: “We know that access to good, early diagnostics is key because having those tests early and getting an early diagnosis means people have a greater chance of a better outcome when there is something wrong.

This should therefore reduce health inequities for those living in areas of greater deprivation and improve overall health outcomes in Plymouth.”

A planning application for the temporary unit has been submitted and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust has been working closely with Plymouth City Council colleagues to determine the exact location and utility services required.The first patient will be seen later this year.

Cabinet Member for Finance and City Centre Champion Councillor Mark Lowry said: “Getting this application in is a huge step in the right direction. While this is a temporary solution, we are working together as a team on the longer term plans so that the West End can get the health facilities the area so desperately needs.

“Having the site cleared and making the land available has meant that the hospital can crack on with the task of providing services that people living nearby can access tests more easily. Getting a temporary unit up and running so quickly should help take the pressure off services at Derriford.”

The planning application pack for the permanent build is due to be submitted at the end of November. The procurement process for a construction partner will start shortly and the building is due to complete in Spring 2025.

A giant painting which hasn’t been seen in public for decades will be rolled out at The Box in September, as part of a live ‘conservation in action’ event.

Lady Jane Grey at Her Place of Execution was painted in 1839 by Plymouth-born artist Solomon Hart (18061881). The painting, which measures over three and a half metres high by just under three and a half metres wide (12 feet high by 11 feet wide), has been in storage for years. Now, the team at The Box are keen to explore its possibilities for the future.

Hart is widely considered to be one of the most influential Jewish artists of 19th century Britain. He was the first Jewish person to be elected to London’s prestigious Royal Academy and was also its Librarian for 17 years. His legacy in this role is huge as during his tenure he increased the expenditure on books significantly.

Unfortunate

Hart devoted an entire year to painting his ambitious work which shows the unfortunate Lady Jane Grey (1537-1554) about to meet her demise.

She stands before the block at the Tower of London looking to the sky, while the grim outlines of the battlements and her executioner loom behind her. It was the painting that secured Hart’s election to the Royal Academy.

Yacht Club’s support for RNLI

The Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club (RPCYC) has donated £500 to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

The sum was raised through a series of successful fundraising events, including the highly acclaimed Parade of Lights held last December, which captivated Plymouth crowds along the Hoe.

The Parade of Lights, an annual event cherished by the local community with participating boats and crews from all over Plymouth, showcased the incredible spirit of maritime enthusiasts, and served as a memorable occasion to raise funds for this noble cause.

Commodore Chris Deane, on behalf of the Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club his pictured presenting the cheque to RNLI Plymouth Coxswain Simon Jefferey, and expressed gratitude to everyone who participated in the various events, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact on the safety of the coastal waters.

Grey is often referred to as ‘The Nine Days Queen’. She was the greatgranddaughter of Henry VII and inherited the crown from her cousin Edward VI on July 9 1553. By July 19, her cousin Mary Tudor had been proclaimed queen instead. Lady Jane was imprisoned in the Tower of London where she had been preparing for her coronation.

She was tried and convicted of high treason, and executed on February 12 1554.

Despite his success with the Royal Academy, the enormity of the painting proved to be a challenge for Hart. He kept it rolled up for 40 years until 1879, when he gave it to his hometown of Plymouth to be hung in the newly-built Guildhall.

The painting was then moved and displayed at the former City Museum and Art Gallery in 1911, but was rolled for storage before the outbreak of the Second World War and has remained there ever since.

Now, thanks to The Box’s conservation in action event it will be slowly unrolled in view of visitors. A team of conservation experts will then assess its condition to understand the stability of the canvas and paint layers in order to plan the scale of restoration required and the costs involved.

In the 1980s, the painting was ‘faced up’ with tissue to secure loose paint and protect the surface. This treatment will be examined to see how

effective the facing has been and how easy it is to remove. The assessment will give The Box a much better idea about the potential for displaying the painting in the future.

“We are really proud of Solomon Hart’s achievements and are delighted to be sharing his work and story with our audiences,” said collections manager Steve Conway.

Impressive

“The Execution of Lady Jane Grey is an ambitious painting that deserves to be seen – even the original gilded frame which has been dismantled and aged over the years is impressive.

“This event is a great opportunity for us to be really transparent about some of the important work that usually takes place behind the scenes. It’s set to be a fascinating few days for everyone involved.”

The schedule for the conservation in action

event will see the unrolling on September 27 followed on September 28 and 29 with condition reporting, treatment and recording. The painting will be on public view on September 30 and October 1. This will be followed on October 3 and 4 with additional condition reporting and then rerolling.

Opening hours at The Box are 10am to 5pm. Admission is free and there’s no need to book.

The Box will be holding an informal Bitesize talk about Solomon Hart at 1pm on September 27.

‘Hart of Plymouth’, a brilliant one-man show written and created by David Prescott and performed by Derek Frood (Poldark, Manhunt) will also take place at The Box on September 30 and October 1.

For full details and to book tickets to one or both events, visit the What’s On section of www. theboxplymouth.com.

Solomon Hart (1806-1881), Lady Jane Grey at Her Place of Execution, 1839 ©The Box, Plymouth

Rarely seen masterpiece will be centre of attention at special ‘conservation in action’ event

I remarked to someone recently how important it is to take the time to remember positive changes in situations, breakthroughs and answers to prayer that have happened in our past.

It is so easy in life to be so focused on the present and our hopes and plans for the future that we forget where we’ve come from. More importantly what we’ve been through.

We have all faced challenges in our lives and whether they were big or small at the time, we’re delighted when we come through them.

As a Christian, prayer is a vital part of my life. Bringing difficult or painful situations to God in prayer is fundamental to my faith. In the moment when change occurs it is easy to attribute this to an answer to prayer and be encouraged. It is sadly all too easy to come around and face the next set of challenges and have that encouragement drain away.

If we’re able to recall what we’ve been through and how we’ve come through it, it can give us a tremendous sense of hope for our future and peace that we’re going to be ok with whatever we’re facing now.

This Summer I found myself glued to the Ashes cricket, as you may have been. (If you weren’t, don’t fear this isn’t going to be an in

Breaking through with prayer

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms Plymouth

depth cricket analysis!)

One of the big storylines was the performance of England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. He made a few high profile mistakes in the early tests and was coming under quite a bit of scrutiny in the press and on social media, saying that he should possibly be dropped.

He wasn’t and it proved the right call as he played very well for the remainder of the series, playing a key role in winning two tests for England and batting very well.

When he was interviewed by the BBC after the series he was asked about his performances and the pressure he was being put under by the cricketing public. He had this to say:

“When there are nine pins, a six-inch plate and a wire through your ankle and you are told you might not walk properly again, never mind run again or play professional sport, I am immensely proud of the determination I have shown and the commitment to get back playing at this level so quickly.”

Lions boost for Plymouth Foodbank

Plymouth Lions Club stepped in with valuable support when they heard that Plymouth Foodbank’s shelves were looking empty.

Club President Bob Dight accompanied by community service chair Lion Phil Greenwood and wife Lion Pam, with the agreement of all club members presented Rachel Javan, warehouse coordinator, with a cheque for £500 to purchase more food items.

The money donated was raised by public contribution to many fundraising activities held by the Lions Club for use within the local community.

Plymouth Foodbank helps people who are in financial crisis by providing them with much needed food (plus toiletries and cleaning items), a listening ear and useful support. Over 140 different

agencies can provide clients with Foodbank vouchers. Short term provision is given, with each food parcel containing enough tinned and dried food for a balanced diet for three days.

During July Plymouth Foodbank helped nearly 900 people were served, two-thirds of them adults and one-third children, providing a total of almost 8,000 meals.

The Foodbank relies on donations of food, toiletries and money. In one week recently they spent £3,000 of donated money to supplement donated goods. There are still some empty shelves in the warehouse. Donations can be taken to Plymouth Foodbank, The Oasis Project, 28 Manor Street, Stonehouse, PL1 1TW.  For more information contact info@plymouth.foodbank.org.uk 01752 254981 or follow them on Facebook or twitter.

He was referring to a severe injury he suffered in August of 2022. A significant challenge and one which put into perspective everything he was facing this summer in the Ashes.

Throughout all the intensity put on him with each test match, he evidently held on to what he had come through in the past 12 months and it enabled him to have success and overcome.

For the team at the Plymouth Chronicle and us involved in Cross Rhythms Plymouth radio, Covid 19 posed a very real threat to our activities, as it did for so many businesses and organisations.

We often remind ourselves of how grateful we are to not only have come through that tough time, but to be able to now develop new things and grow. We truly believe there were real answers to prayer in those tough times and that gives us motivation and strength for the challenges now.

One of the new developments for us at Cross Rhythms Plymouth has been to branch out into increased video content. We’ve launched a YouTube channel where you can watch full length versions of our interviews. Many of these feature people sharing their stories of overcoming adversity and seeing God help them in those dark times.

If you’re interested we’d love you to check out our YouTube channel. Simply search Cross Rhythms Plymouth on YouTube and subscribe to the channel and check out our content as it gets uploaded.

If you’d like to find out more about the station on a regular basis you can sign up to our mailing list online at www.crplymouth. co.uk/subscribe.

For you personally now might be a good time to take 5 minutes to think through some of the difficult times you’ve come through. Bringing them to memory can really help to put into perspective hard times that you might be facing today.

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

Support available for Plymouth students receiving exam results

Students in Plymouth receiving their GCSE and A Level results can get support for anyone who is uncertain about their next steps.

Plymouth City Council’s Skills Launchpad team is running a series of events helping to connect young people with opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs.

Education leavers and their parents or carers are invited to attend sessions at Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s base, located on the first floor of Barclays in the city centre:

Sector-focused drop-in sessions: For anyone interested in the construction and built environment or the health and care sectors, drop-in sessions are open every Tuesday between 10am and 3pm with more information about jobs, apprenticeships or further study.

Education Leaver CV Surgeries: Young people can pre-book a 30-minute CV review, with appointments available every Wednesday between 10am and 3pm throughout August and September. Book in advance at www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/education-leaver-cv-surgeriestickets-676591291767

Construction Apprenticeship Drop-ins: Meet local construction training providers on Tuesday August 29, and Tuesday September 12, between 10am and 2pm.

Training and Apprenticeship Drop-ins: Meet local training providers on Wednesday

August 23 and Wednesday September 27 between 10am and 2pm

Application Skills for Apprenticeships and Jobs: Drop in for help with applying for apprenticeships and jobs on Thursday August 31 between 10am and 12pm

Interview Skills for Apprenticeships and Jobs: Mock interviews are available on Thursday August 31, between 1pm and 3pm, to help develop individual skills. Email skillslaunchpad@plymouth.gov.uk to book.

Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “Good luck to all students in Plymouth receiving their GCSE and A-Level results and a huge well done for all your hard work.

“I really hope that you’re pleased with your results, but if that’s not the case then don’t panic.

“It can be really worrying if you don’t get the grades you hoped for, or if you’re not sure what to do next. But our brilliant and friendly team at Skills Launchpad Plymouth are here to help, with lots of advice about further education, apprenticeships and jobs too.

If you need their support, please do reach out and come along to one of the many sessions taking place this summer so we can help you to achieve your full potential.”

Find more information and support at www.skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk/ educationleavers

Support for Foodbank: Lion President Bob Dight, Lion Phil Greenwood, Rachel Javan, warehouse co-ordinator, and Lion Pam Greenwood

Dave Simpson

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Views sought on new adult care facility

There is still a chance for residents to have their say on the new £10 million adult care facility in Plymouth, a service that will support adults with learning disabilities by offering a combined day and respite service in one central location.

The state of the art, modern and accessible building is being designed specifically to support people with a wide range of disabilities and complex needs. It will include 12 en-suite bedrooms and six self-contained apartments with their own courtyard gardens to offer short respite breaks.

The facility will also include different spaces for activities such as sensory rooms, art rooms, gardens, and a kitchen.

Located on the site of a disused depot on Outland Road, which was once home to the council’s parks department, the facility will benefit from easy access to Central Park as well as strong transport links throughout the city.

The consultation launched earlier this year, with drop-in events and an online survey, and the survey has now been re-opened following requests for further information

about how the council will make the facility as low carbon and sustainable as possible.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “A lot of hard work has

gone into designing this new centre of excellence and I hope that others will agree that it will not only

improve our existing adult social care offer, but it will also transform a disused piece of land at the edge of Central Park.

“Supporting our must vulnerable residents, and their families is the utmost importance to the council. I believe that this new centre will be an excellent addition to the city.

“In addition, I am pleased that the facility will have strong environmental credentials, using low carbon materials, built to minimise heat loss, providing as much on-site renewable energy as possible, and improving nature and biodiversity on-site.”

Once built, the centre will replace the current daytime support offer at The Vine in Whitleigh and the respite provision offered by Colwill Lodge in Estover.

An online consultation is available until the September 17 at: https://plymouth-consult. objective.co.uk/public/jcasc/ asc_cp2023

Demolition of the existing depot buildings on the site was carried out earlier this year. A full planning application is due to be submitted this autumn, ahead of the procurement for the construction of the new facility.

Artist’s impression of the new care facility which will be built on the site of disused council depot on Outland Road

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Plymouth Oddfellows support for Woodside Animal Sanctuary

Plymouth Oddfellows provide supplies for Woodside Animal Welfare Trust.

Plymouth Oddfellows have recently supported Plympton-based Woodside Animal Welfare Trust and Sanctuary.

In arranging for the local charity to be supplied with a wide selection of foodstuffs and treatments, Bro. Michael O’Leary, chair of the Plymouth Oddfellows said: “The remarkable and valuable work carried out by this local animal welfare charity is plainly evident and we are very pleased to have assisted them in this way.

“As well as making every effort to support our members during these economically difficult times, we always do our bit to assist local charities and other good causes in Plymouth and across Cornwall as well.

“The increasing numbers of abandoned pets and the amazing work carried out by Woodside was brought to our attention and we thought this to be an excellent cause and in need of a little bit of help. Our friendly society has been around since at least 1810 and we proudly stand by our motto of ‘Friendship, Love and Truth.’

“We meet at St Budeaux Community Centre in Wolseley Road, Plymouth and also have a very successful lunch group which is run by Katherine to whom we remain very grateful.”

The Oddfellows meet for a variety of activities in Plymouth and other locations and with all the benefits of a well-established friendly society, the Oddfellows always welcomes new members of all ages and genders and all enquiries should be directed to the Provincial Secretary, Bro. Peter English on 01209 200810, by email to peter.english@oddfellows.co.uk or via the Oddfellows website: at www.oddfellows.co.uk

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New walking and cycling champion

Plymouth City Council has appointed a walking and cycling champion to promote and encourage more active travel.

Providing cleaner, greener and healthier ways for people to get around Plymouth is one of the council’s top priorities and, in his new role, Councillor John Stephens will be aiming to get more people walking, wheeling and cycling, both for their everyday journeys and for leisure.

He will work alongside Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, in identifying and bringing about improvements to make active travel easier and raising awareness of the support that is available.

“Walking, wheeling and cycling are great ways to stay fit and healthy, save money and explore the city, while also helping to improve local air quality,” said Councillor Stephens. “We want to ensure that these are appealing travel options for everyone, by providing the routes, infrastructure and support they need.

“As well as helping to guide our Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan, I will be working to promote the practical support on offer for people keen to make more journeys on foot or by bike, such as free cycle training, bike maintenance, led rides and a whole range of online resources.

“I’ll also be supporting local safety schemes and improvements that make it easier to walk, cycle and use mobility scooters and wheelchairs, such as new and improved crossings, footways and cycleways, as well as initiatives such as Safer School Streets and the Bike It Plus programme for schools.”

Councillor Mark Coker added: “We want to increase the number of trips made on foot or by cycle in Plymouth and that means ensuring there is a comprehensive network of routes that everyone feels confident using, regardless of their level of experience or physical ability.

“Active travel has so many benefits – it is low-cost, it is great for your health and wellbeing and it helps to reduce carbon emissions and improve local air quality.

“I look forward to working with Councillor Stephens, as well as key partners and stakeholders like Sustrans and Plymouth Cycling Campaign, to maximise walking and cycling opportunities in Plymouth and encourage more people to give them a go, more often.”

The latest Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan for Plymouth can be viewed at www.plymouth.gov.uk/localcycling-and-walking-infrastructure-plan

Coun John Stephens

£2 million spend on new classrooms for three city schools

Three schools in Plymouth will receive new classrooms during the next school year, helping to increase the number of places available for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Plymouth City Council is investing more than £2 million into new classrooms at two special schools, while also replacing a dilapidated Foundation classroom at a mainstream primary school.

Cann Bridge School will receive two classrooms to accommodate 16 extra pupils, while Mill Ford School will receive three bespoke teaching spaces so they can continue to support children that have been learning at a satellite location. This has been funded by a dedicated grant for capital development of high needs places from the Department for Education.

The Foundation class room at College Road Primary School that is currently in poor condition will also be replaced.

The aim is for all the new classrooms to be in place by spring 2024, following a decision signed today awarding the contract for the works.

Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “There is increasing demand for SEND school places in Plymouth so these new class rooms are absolutely vital, enabling us to open up additional places for children and young people who need more support than is available at mainstream schools.

“It’s also really important that we repair and replace school buildings when they need it. Pupils need and deserve a safe, high-quality learning environment that helps them to reach their full potential.”

The council is responsible for school place provision and major maintenance works to local-authority-maintained schools. Academies are responsible for their own building maintenance and can apply directly for funding from the Department of Education.

Repairs on the way for five Plymouth schools

Plymouth City Council is investing more than £200,000 to support vital building work and repairs on five city schools.

The repairs have been identified by the council’s education team as the most urgent to complete this summer. The council is responsible for major maintenance works to local-authority-maintained schools and receives a limited capital grant from the Government to carry out major works.

The schools which will undergo major repair work are:

• Cann Bridge School: Repair of the hydrotherapy pool, which supports students with sensory needs and physiotherapy

• Longcause Community Special School: Repair of the lift

• Laira Green Primary School: New flooring in the kitchen and Foundation class room

• Mary Dean’s CE Primary School: Repairs to the school roof

• Yealmpston Farm Primary School: Two new boilers and control equipment, and repairs to the school roof

The council will be developing similar programmes of investment next year, with more details to be published in 2024.

HMS Northumberland returns to Plymouth after 23,000 miles and nearly half a year away

Devonport based HMS Northumberland has returned home after spending more than half of 2023 at sea operating across the Arctic, Baltic and the North Atlantic.

The Type 23 frigate has sailed nearly the distance around the world, racking up 23,043 miles on the high seas since the start of the year, locating Russian units and protecting UK waters.

The ship returned to Plymouth Naval Base having also operated with NATO allies on submarine-hunting exercises in the North Atlantic, patrolled the High North and working with the world’s largest warship, the US Navy’s imposing aircraft carrier the USS Gerald R Ford, inside the Arctic Circle.

Commander Will Edwards-Bannon, Northumberland’s Commanding Officer, said: “I have once again been profoundly impressed by the selfless commitment and tactical excellence that my ship’s company has demonstrated across the length and breadth of our operating area, from the Atlantic to the Arctic and the Barents to the Baltic.

“Everyone on board can look back on this successful deployment with pride in our collective achievements: from once again leading task group operations in the Arctic Circle alongside close allies, to marking the coronation of His Majesty The King while we were in Iceland.

“I am hugely grateful for the support of all our friends and families who enable us to do our important work for the Nation and it is a great pleasure to see so many of them here to welcome Northumberland and her fantastic ship’s company home today.”

Northumberland spent three quarters of her deployed time on concerted operations, but also managed to visit Denmark, Iceland, and Norway in between tasking.

In the waters between Norway, the Faroe Islands and Iceland, Northumberland, with tanker RFA Tideforce and her Merlin helicopter of 814 Naval Air Squadron, took part in Exercise Dynamic Mongoose, NATO’s premier cold water anti-submarine warfare exercise designed to strengthen allies’ ability

to track and destroy threats lurking beneath the surface.

The frigate followed that up by tracking Russian warships, Vice-Admiral Kulakov and Admiral Levchenko, as they sailed in waters close to the UK.

In Reykjavik in Iceland, Northumberland marked His Majesty The King’s Coronation, hosting sailors from allied warships for a flight deck ‘street party’ and supporting efforts at the British embassy.

Petty Officer Vucago ‘Vinny’ Bainitabua, said: “I’m proud to look back and when

people ask: ‘where were you for the King’s Coronation?’ I can say: I was deployed on operations with HMS Northumberland in Reykjavik, hosting our NATO allies. It’s definitely one to remember.”

Northumberland, Type 45 destroyer HMS Defender and tanker RFA Tideforce joined the US Navy’s Carrier Strike Group 12, whose flagship is the USS Gerald R Ford, trained with the ship as she continued her Atlantic Ocean deployment. The frigate then led an allied task group in the High North, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to supporting and collaborating with Arctic partners, as well as enhancing the Royal Navy’s long history of operating in the region.

Northumberland was joined by RFA Tideforce, Norwegian frigate HNoMS Otto Sverdrup and United States Navy (USN) destroyer USS Thomas Hudner.

The crew did manage to get some down time with a myriad of self-generated entertainment such as raffles, quizzes, and race nights, raising money for the frigate’s favourite charities and welfare fund, plus Northumberland’s first Pride event at sea.

“This has been my first deployment with the Royal Navy and it has been a challenging but highly rewarding experience, from operating in the Arctic Circle, to escorting the world’s largest warship,” said Able Seaman Nathan Mounsey, an underwater warfare specialist.

“However, organising, planning and executing Northumberland’s first ever Pride was fantastic and my personal highlight from the deployment.”

HMS Northumberland is escorted into Devonport to be greeted by delighted friends and families

Vital role played by Livewell Southwest’s Family Nurses

Livewell Southwest’s Family Nurse Partnership is an intensive support programme for girls and women in Plymouth up to the age of 19 who are pregnant and are sometimes facing a range of difficult circumstances, such as homelessness, social isolation, mental health issues, or unhealthy relationships.

Vicki from Plymouth was 16 years old when Family Nurse Fay started supporting her through her pregnancy. She said: “I just don’t think I would be here now if it wasn’t for the service. She gave me inspiration and she gave me self-worth.

“She helped me with everything - from being homeless to going to the foodbank and getting back into college. Just every aspect of life really. You have checks for the baby all the time from the health visitors, but it’s focused on how the baby’s doing and I think at such a young age, to have someone there who can actually sit and go ‘no, you matter too’.

“It’s so good to see them. I had a conversation with someone and it made me think and I just wanted to message Fay and say ‘you might not remember me, but I just wanted to say this is how I’m doing in life and I couldn’t have done it without you’. When she remembered me it was just amazing. I’ve even got a daughter named after her.

“Now I’ve got a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in literature and I’m currently doing a PhD. So without that, it kind of starts a tumble of events.”

Family Nurses build a therapeutic relationship with young people, in order to support their transition to parenthood. They focus on every aspect of parenting, from what to expect in pregnancy, infancy and toddlerhood to breastfeeding, stopping smoking, healthy relationships, managing minor illness and reducing accidents, and supporting child development.

The service was set up 15 years ago and, in that time, has supported more than 450 families across Plymouth. The team

welcomed families back for a celebration event recently hosted by the Wolseley Trust at the Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre to commemorate the milestone.

Chloe was 17 years old when she started being supported by the Family Nurse Partnership. She said: “I would not be the person I am today if it wasn’t for them. I was quite scared and nervous to become a mum.

I was worried about letting my unborn child down.

“Now me and my little boy have our own home. We are healthy and we are happy. Now he’s getting a little bit bigger, my Family Nurse is helping me get him into nursery so I can spend a little more time to myself getting a job.

“I can see a brighter future now whereas I used to not really see that. I am proud of who I am and how far I’ve come.”

Family Nurse Partnership supervisor Fay Cook said: “It’s hard being teenager and it’s even harder being a pregnant teenager. If you think about public health in terms of hospital treatment, we’re more like the intensive care of the public health nursing service. To have that one person that you see regularly that you build up a therapeutic relationship with, that really helps you to set your goals and achieve your aspirations, that’s really, really important to have someone on your side.

“It’s a fantastic feeling knowing that you’ve helped 452 families, helping parents achieve their aspirations and their goals.”

Helplines

Fay Cook, second from left and the members of the Family Nurse Partnership team

Vicki Chloe

Jobs boost as construction apprenticeship training centre is launched in Plympton

Plymouth’s largest dedicated construction apprenticeship training centre has opened in Plympton.

Delivered by Greenlight Training, the investment in new purpose built facilities located at Newnham Industrial Estate now offers the biggest range of construction trade apprenticeships available in the city including bricklaying, carpentry, roofing, drylining, plastering, flooring, groundworks and property maintenance.

Dan Symons, director at Greenlight Training said: “Greenlight were delighted to finally unveil our new Apprenticeship Training Centre and to demonstrate to so many of our employers, partners, associates and friends the unparalleled range of facilities we’re now able to offer.

“It’s one thing to hear about how we support apprenticeships, it’s another for people to see the potential with their own eyes. We’re very proud of this training centre, and we’re hugely excited about the positive impact we can have on the landscape of apprenticeships across the region.

“This facility would not have been possible without the support, assistance and sheer hard work of our partners, employees’ and clients, and we cannot thank everyone enough for their help in making this centre a reality. We’re very excited about the range of opportunities we can offer, and the transformative impact we can have on the sector. It’s good for Plymouth, good for the South West, and ultimately it’s good for the whole industry.”

The opening event was well supported by industry representatives, key partners, current

apprentices, Plymouth City Council including Cllr Sally Cresswell, Cabinet member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, and employers who already access their apprenticeship training through Greenlight.

Speaking at the launch event, Mick Harvey, director at Award Group said: “It’s a great pleasure to work alongside Greenlight Training which enables young adults to grow and develop new skills within a safe environment for their future. Award Group currently have 18 apprentices spread over our carpentry, plastering and drylining departments and are looking forward to accommodating more apprentices in the future.”

Cutting the ribbon to celebrate the official

opening, Emma Hewitt, Skills Lead and Building Plymouth lead from Plymouth City Council said: “Huge congratulations to the Greenlight Training team for responding so brilliantly to the growing demand from the construction industry to help us tackle the skills shortages which are evident across all trades.

“Apprenticeships are the best route into this industry and the breadth of trade provision available now provides increased opportunities for local people - young people leaving the education system this summer as well as adults looking to retrain, to build a career which offers well paid prospects upon qualifying. Plymouth is facing its biggest capital build programme for 25 years and through the Building Plymouth partnership we are working hard to fill the hundreds of apprenticeship vacancies available.”

To apply directly for an apprenticeship with Greenlight Training visit www.greenlightsc.co.uk/ apply-for-an-apprenticeship

To find out how Building Plymouth connects local people with skills, training, education, careers and jobs including apprenticeships with the local construction industry visit www.buildingplymouth. co.uk or drop in to meet the Building Plymouth team who are based at Skills Launchpad Plymouth, 1st floor Barclays Bank in the city centre, every Tuesday, 10am to 4pm.

A helpful guide for Plymouth’s education leavers interested in joining the construction world can be found at: www.buildingplymouth.co.uk/careers/ school-leaver-engagement-2023-your-one-stopshop-for-next-steps

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22,500 homes in Derriford and North edition

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

The October edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Derriford and North Plymouth will be published on September 29 with a copy deadline of September 18. 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.

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of the Plymouth Chronicle.

Or visit plymouthchronicle.co.uk/crossword

Last month’s answers

Across: 7 Zoom, 8 Graduate, 9 Sparkler, 10 Nods, 11 Alive, 12 Reduced, 14 Telstar, 16 Egypt, 19 Tact, 20 Songster 21 Aerobics, 22 Mats

Down: 1 Compel, 2 Improvisation, 3 Agile, 4 Barrier, 5 Quinquagesima, 6 Stodge, 13 Warship, 15 Enamel, 17 Pretty, 18 Gnash

Gables has been helping the regions unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats since 1907. We take in and care for nearly 1000 cats and dogs every year.

We are a non-euthanasia charity, which means no healthy animal in our care is put to sleep. We receive no Government funding so rely completely on the generosity and support of the public through donations and legacies. We need your help to care for unwanted and aban doned animals in your local area.

Any donation, large or small, would make a significant difference to the work we do and will help to protect our future.

The views expressed in the Plymouth Chronicle are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this publication. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the publication.

Pictured at the opening of the new training centre (from left): Mick Harvey, director, Award Group; Emma Hewitt, Skills Lead, Plymouth City Council; Cllr Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, Plymouth City Council and Dan Symons, director, Greenlight Training