Plymouth Chronicle September Derriford & North 2024

Departing Sat 14 Dec ‘24

In one of his most lavish settings, a winter wonderland is created with snow, two ice rinks, sparkling lights, 150 chandeliers and over 50 candelabras. Soak up the atmosphere and sing to Christmas songs and carols – the perfect way to get into festive spirits!

Your break includes

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth  3 nights at a selected hotel in Belgium/Germany/the Netherlands (JG3 or JG4 rating) with breakfast  André Rieu concert ticket (Block L2)

 Free time in Maastricht

 Excursion to a Christmas Market

Ticket upgrades available

Departing Mon 17 Feb ‘25

Escape to Shanklin on the Isle of Wight and enjoy lovely excursions, all for a great-value price! We include visits to Ryde, Cowes and the seaside resort of Sandown, as well as an optional Island Highlights tour on this fantastic sightseeing adventure!

Your break includes

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth & Saltash

 4 nights at the Shanklin Beach Hotel, Shanklin (JG2+ rating) with dinner & breakfast

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

crafting session

 Entertainment some evenings

 Excursions to Ryde, Cowes & Sandown

Optional Island Highlights tour (14pp)

Tour de Moor 2024 Chronicle Advert.indd 1

Dive into summer at the UK’s first National Marine Park

Plymouth Sound National Marine Park has launched ‘Your Summer Your Sound’ –a programme with over 900 free activity sessions designed to engage and inspire people in, on, under and around Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

Through feedback received during a learning and development stage, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park learnt about the barriers that prevent people from accessing the sea – these ranged from water confidence and financial restrictions to accessibility.

Thanks to significant investment from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Youth Investment Fund, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park are able to begin their five-year transformational programme with a series of free activities.

The activities run from Tinside Lido and Mount Wise Pools, include the SwimSafe programme and Activity Sessions, which are available throughout the summer period. Young people can sign up for free to learn to swim, or trial scuba, snorkelling, life-guarding and aqua-fit, alongside lots of other fun ways to enjoy the water in a safe environment.

Rhys Jones, chief executive of Plymouth Active Leisure, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for local young people to learn new skills that not only support their safety in the water, but can provide them with a pathway to employment.”

programme aimed to engage up to fifty participants each week from a wide range of local community groups will run at the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre for a four-week period.

Throughout the week participants will learn about local wildlife, the importance of our coastline and how they can have a lasting impact on Plymouth Sound.

Sam Waites, watersports and activities manager at Mount Batten Centre, said: “Through funding via our partnership with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park we’re able to open up this amazing initiative to our wider community groups, enabling them to build new and lasting relationships with the ocean.”

The Mount Batten Centre also run an extensive

range of exciting water activities that people can book through their website, from a Stand Up Paddleboard or Kayak tour taking in the local heritage and picturesque coastline, to their RYA approved youth sailing courses that run on a weekly basis.

There are also lots of marine themed land based activities that people can get involved with throughout the holidays. Look out for our Meet the Marine Park team who will be popping up at events across the city.

At select events, there will also be the chance to join Plymouth Laureate of Words, Rosemarie Corlett, in her ‘Letters to the Ocean’ activity, part of The Box’s Planet Ocean exhibition, where everyone is invited to pen their heartfelt messages to the sea.

The programme is designed to build confidence, enhance knowledge and eventually encourage people to explore the multiple ways to enjoy Plymouth Sound National Marine Park that are available on our doorstep.

A four-day Marine Citizenship activity

For those who prefer to stay dry-ish, there are plenty of volunteer activities to get involved in. Join one of the coastal clean-ups or citizen science events throughout the summer. These activities offer a fantastic way to contribute to the conservation of Plymouth’s beautiful marine environment whilst meeting new friends.

Plymouth Sound National Marine Park offers countless other exciting activities. From Rockpool Safaris to walking the beautiful South West Coast Path, there’s no shortage of ways to engage with the local heritage and nature. The summer campaign, ‘Your Summer, Your Sound,’ links to a dedicated landing page listing all the exciting ways to get in, on, under, and around Plymouth Sound National Marine Park this summer.

For more information and to plan a visit: www. plymouthsoundnationalmarinepark.com/yoursummer-your-sound/

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.

Saltram Rotary Classic Car Show

Sept 8

The popular family event returns to the Lyneham Estate at Yealmpton from 11am to 4pm with classic cars, motor cycles and tractors on display. Also featuring South Hams Singers, jazz band, food and craft stalls, drinks bar and bouncy castle. Admission £5, under 16s free.

Classical Concert

Sept 8

Mark Bebbington plays classical piano at Stoke Damerel Church from 3pm to 5pm including two works by Chopin. Tickets £15 from www.plymouthconcerts.com

Sing Devon

Sept 12

Do you enjoy singing? Do you like to meet new people? Then go along to the Welcoming New Voices free session at Plymstock School PL9 9AZ from 7.15pm to 9pm. The emphasis is on fun, supporting the local community and supporting each other. Lots of laughing mixed in with beautiful sounds. No auditions. Just come along and give it a go. Details at www. singdevon.com or call Pete Scott on 07896 276577.

It’s a Big Deal - A Festival of Bridge

Sept 14 and 15

Plymouth Bridge Club is hosting an open weekend at 1, Moor View Terrace, Mutley. There will be a friendly, gentle taster session for anyone who would like to find out more about the game from 10.30am, with coffee and biscuits, until 1pm. No charge. On Sunday duplicate play from 1pm to 5.30pm including a break for tea and cake. Warm welcome to players from other clubs and anyone who knows how to play. The £5 charge will all be donated to Cancer Research UK

Southway’s Autumn Table Top Sale

Sept 14

To be held at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Southway from 1pm to 3pm. Lots of goodies available as well as children’s crafts and tombola. Refreshments available and entry is free. Organisers are also asking for old shoeboxes and items to go into them for the annual Shoebox Appeal. For more information or to book a table for £5 please contact Veronica on 07855 256383.

Seafest Plymouth

Sept 14 and Sept 15

Seafest Plymouth, will once again be celebrating the incredible sustainably caught fresh fish and seafood on offer in Britain’s Ocean City, as well as celebrating and informing visitors about our wonderful ocean, all across the waterfront.

Brass Band Concert

Sept 21

Soundhouse, Plymouth’s brass band, has rebranded and is now Plymouth City Brass. To mark the change they are presenting a free concert in Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 7.30pm. Hopefully the audience will introduce new people to brass bands as well as be a great occasion for established band ‘geeks’! All former players, members of other groups in the region and anyone interested will be most welcome. Tickets, which free, from www.universe.com/ events/soundhouse-brass-re-branding-celebrationtickets-plymouth-4FV1KG

Kiri Pritchard-McLean

Sept 21

Multi-award winning comedian, satirist and writer brings her Peacock tour to the Sherwell Centre at Plymouth University. Recent credits include hosting Live at the Apollo and appearances on Have I Got News For You and 8 out of 10 Cats Do Countdown. Tickets from www.comicalentertainment.com

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

50th Anniversary Celebrations

Sept 22

Plymstock Community Centre is inviting local residents to celebrate its 50th birthday from 10am to 4pm. Entry is free and the event will feature displays, bouncy castle, face painting and much more. The Centre is located of the top of Broadway car park.

Plymouth Brick Festival

Sept 22

A LEGO fan event dedicated to all things brick at The Life Centre, Plymouth from 10am to 4pm. A great day for families, collectors, adult builders and every other kind of LEGO fan. With lots to see and do including speed building competitions, large scale displays, activities, traders selling loose bricks, new LEGO sets, retired LEGO sets, minifigures and accessories plus a dedicated building area. For tickets and details visit www.brickfestivalevents.com/event/plymouth-brickfestival

Greek Lunch

Sept 28

Visitor Centre, Ford Park Cemetery at 1pm. Tickets £12 available in office hours from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday

The Bazaar

Sept 28

Monthly market place at The Box from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy an array of local vendors displaying exceptional and skilfully crafted products. Indulge in different cultural experiences and get immersed in a vibrant atmosphere with live music and entertainment.

Why Did I Write That?

Sept 29

Composer Clive Jenkins reminisces in a new talk about his career illustrated with CDs both private and commercial at Stoke Damerel Church from 3pm to 4.20pm. Orchestral, choral, chamber and cabaret items plus some new piano music played live. A fundraiser for Stoke Damerel Church’s roof fund. There will also be cake provided! Tickets £15 from www. plymouthconcerts.com

Coffee Morning

Oct 5

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. Proceeds to Brikama Medical Mission. All welcome.

Trevi’s Warrior Women Walk

Oct 5

The Warrior Women Walk is back, bigger and better for 2024! The 10k challenge takes in the beautiful scenery

of Burrator Reservoir. It is an opportunity to connect with friends and other amazing women striving to be those resilient, determined women they know they can be. Details and registration at www.trevi.org.uk/ portfolio-item/warrior-women-walk/

Good Food & Craft Market

Oct 6

The popular Good Food + Craft Market will be taking place in Royal William Yard on the first Sunday of every month. Known for showcasing some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, the markets offer everything from tasty‚ reats to handcrafted gifts. The monthly markets have been a staple of Royal William Yard’s event calendar for years, and have won event awards along the way. Details at www.royalwilliamyard.com

You Are Here - Where Is Here

Oct 11 and 12

Local writer John McGee presents his latest play at Mutley Baptist Church at 7pm. Lost and alone in the middle of Dartmoor ...or so he thinks. That’s Jakob. Mapless. Apart from his Mappa Mundi tea towel. But can a 13th century map really get him back ‘here’? And what the heck does ‘here’ mean anyway? And is he really alone? Tickets £10 on door or at ticketsource/ co.uk/mcgees2PLUS.com

Gospel Choir Concert

Oct 12

Featuring Callington Community Gospel choir and Mark Jenner on the organ at Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 7pm. Free entry with collection for Children’s Hospice South West and church organ fund. Go along for an uplifting fun evening. Listen, clap, sing and just enjoy.

Singing Day

Oct 12

Organised by Plymouth Philharmonic Choir at the Woolwell Community Centre from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Featuring complete vocal scores of The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace with Nicholas Banks. Cost is £23 which includes the loan of the score. A light lunch is available for £7. Further details from Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s Facebook page, from Sarah Potter (07816 230173) or email plymphilchoirworkshops@gmail.com. Online booking at wegottickets.com/event/621228

Tour de Moor

Oct 13

St Luke’s Hospice’s popular fundraiser returns in October. With three distances and difficulty levels to choose from, it’s the ultimate inclusive family friendly

cycling adventure. For more information or to register visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tour-de-moor

The Chamber Ensemble of London

Oct 13

Back by popular demand the Ensemble present works by Handel, Marcello, Monteverdi, Vivaldi and Bach at Stoke Damerel Church from 4pm to 6pm. Visit www. plymouthconcerts.com for more details.

Civil War Talk

Oct 26

Popular speaker Philip Photiou will be giving a talk on the Civil War at Ford Park Cemetery. There will be a ploughman’s lunch included in the price of £12 for a ticket. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm where tickets can be purchased by calling 01752 665442. Philip is a popular speaker and his talks are often a sell-out.

Plymouth Oktoberfest

Oct 26

The popular event returns to Central Park with two sessions from 12 noon to 5pm and from 6pm to 11pm. Every year has been a sell-out since it was first launched and tickets are sure to be in big demand. As usual the event will feature oompah bands, bier steins, gourmet bratwurst, party games, singalongs, Ocktoberfest dress ups, lederhosen hosts and much more. For tickets and further information visit www. oktoberfestplymouth.co.uk

Bonfire Night

Nov 5

Plymouth Hoe will be lit up with a spectacular Bonfire and Fireworks display. More details coming soon.

Christmas Fayre

Nov 30

St Budeaux Methodist Church from 10am to 1pm. Various stalls including a raffle, tombola and cakes. Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and bacon or sausage baps will be available.

Milton Jones

Dec 14

Fans favourite Milton Jones brings his Ha!Milton tour to the Main Hall at Plymouth University at 7.30pm. Tickets available at www.comicalentertainment.com

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.

Tour de Moor, St Luke’s Hospice’s popular annual fund raiser returns on October 13

Special multi-sports day for blind and partially sighted

A free multi-sports day dedicated to blind and partially sighted people is coming to Plymouth in September.

The UK’s leading sporting charity for blind and partially sighted people, British Blind Sport, is hosting a Have a Go Day at Plymouth College, Ford Park, Plymouth PL4 6RN on Saturday September 21 between 10am and 3.30pm, in partnership with MoorVision.

On the day visitors can try out a range of sports – including judo and more to be announced in advance.

The session is open to adults and children aged 5+ of all abilities and is aimed at breaking down barriers to exercise by enabling people to try out the sports in a relaxed environment.

Vicky Cook, participation officer at British Blind Sport, said: “Our taster sessions have a crucial role to play in overcoming the common misconception among those with sight loss that sport and exercise isn’t for them, either because they aren’t aware of what’s available in their area, have a lack of confidence, or due to other barriers such as cost and transport. The activities we will be offering will showcase how existing sports have been adapted for those with sight loss. We are excited to be hosting a Have a Go Day in Plymouth, giving the almost 9,000 people living with sight loss in the area the opportunity to try out different sports and hopefully discover a new passion or hobby.”

Laura Hughes, chief executive at MoorVision said: “MoorVision is delighted to be working with

Two youngsters pictured during a judo session at a previous Have a Go Day

out new sporting opportunities.”

local area come along to try

Those wanting to attend British Blind Sport’s Have A Go Day in Plymouth should book a space in advance at www.britishblindsport.org.uk/hagd

A number of Plymouth’s busiest roads are set for an upgrade thanks to new government funding.

The focus will be on Plymouth’s Major Road Network (MRN), which links the A38 junctions at Weston Mill and Marsh Mills via the city centre and forms a critical route from the east and west of the city.

The Plymouth MRN route provides vital connections between the A38 and the major employment areas at the Dockyard and Naval Base at Devonport, the Oceansgate Enterprise Zone, to the Continental Ferry Port, and to the City Centre and Waterfront Growth area.

The new £6.35m funding is made up of funding secured from the Department for Transport (DfT), the Environment Agency (EA) and Strategic Transport s106 developer contributions and will allow the council to draw up detailed designs of potential improvements to the route, needed for the final bid to the DfT to secure the funding for construction, with the aim of improving air quality and reducing congestion.

The current traffic flow on the major road network is understandably high, with traffic building up at peak times.

To address this, the proposed scheme has been developed to include a number of improvements focussing on providing enhanced capacity for road users, greater pedestrian and cycle connectivity and protecting critical rail and road infrastructure and properties from flooding events.

The key elements of the scheme are:

• Junction improvements at the A38 Marsh Mills Roundabout, Camel’s Head and Ferndale Road/Carlton Terrace junctions to increase capacity and improve priority for buses

• Part-widening of the St Budeaux By-pass to increase the merge length

• New and improved pedestrian and cycle infrastructure including high-quality segregated pedestrian and cycleways along St. Budeaux Bypass and Embankment Road, a new cycle ramp to improve links to the existing cycle network near Gdynia Way, and crossing points at the Marsh Mills, Camel’s Head and Carlton Terrace/Ferndale Road junctions

• Removal of the redundant low rail bridge on A374 Embankment Road (Seagull Bridge) to allow the larger double deck HGVs to use the route

• Flood protection works at Arnold’s Point on Embankment Road

• Carriageway reconstruction and renewal works of targeted sections of the major road network

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet member for Transport, said: “I’m delighted to have obtained this funding and to be in the once-in-ageneration position of being able to improve some of our busiest routes and junctions.

“This scheme will improve a number of our most important routes and upgrade them to modern standards. A focus on sustainable transport will be absolutely key as we prepare Plymouth for a carbon neutral future.”

It is estimated that staggered construction on the scheme will begin in the early 2026 and end in Spring 2027.

British Blind Sport the delivery of another Have a Go Day in Plymouth and look forward to seeing many of our children and young people as well as adults with VI from the

LEADERSHIP CHANGE AT PLYMOUTH SCIENCE PARK

Plymouth Science Park, a leading hub for innovative science and technology firms in the South West of England, has announced that chief executive Ian McFadzen will be stepping down from his role in November 2024. The search for his successor is now under way.

Mr McFadzen, who has led the Science Park for seven years, will be taking up the position of CEO at the Ocean Conservation Trust, which operates the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth.

During his tenure, the Park has progressed to become a recognised leader in Plymouth’s and the region’s innovation ecosystem, and a key member of the national Science Park Association. A joint venture between the University of Plymouth and Plymouth City Council, the 25-acre campus is home to science and technology businesses involved in health, marine, earth and life sciences, digital and creative.

Chris Richards, Chair of PSP, said: “Under Ian’s stewardship, the Science Park has continued to evolve as a thriving centre of innovation and opportunity. The Board of PSP would like to thank Ian for his remarkable contribution to the enterprise over the last seven years. We wish him every success in his new challenge.

“We are focusing now on finding an exceptional new CEO who can work with the Board, tenants and key partners to ensure the science park evolves and progresses as a leading hub of science, technology and innovation for the region and beyond.”

Under Mr McFadzen’s leadership, the Park has fostered the creation of high-value jobs in technology enterprises across various sectors.

Ian McFadzen said: “It’s been a real privilege and honour to have worked with the PSP team these past seven years. Not only is the Science Park a leading institution that helps foster innovative firms, but we’ve always strived to be an open and collaborative organisation, working to elevate the amazing science and technology ecosystem centred on Plymouth.

“I’m excited about the next chapter for me personally but want to pay tribute to the many colleagues and people across the Park and other organisations, who I’ve had the pleasure of working with.”

A former marine biologist, Mr McFadzen has been a strong advocate for forging regional and national partnerships whilst at the Science Park. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology and Director of the UK Science Park Association. Previous roles have included Commercial Director at the University of Plymouth, Head of the Marine Innovation Centre in Plymouth, and founder and technical director of Biovault. Plymouth Science Park, home to around 90 innovative science and technology firms, works closely with the University of Plymouth, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Freeport, Oceansgate, and other key stakeholders to drive innovation and economic growth in the region.

Specialist team supporting people to get the help they need to turn their lives around

A new health improvement team is offering support to frequent attendees of Derriford’s Emergency Department to help them address the concerns that are driving them to regularly attend.

The Frequent Users Support and Empowerment (FUSE) service helps people that have gone to the Emergency Department five or more times in a year. Practitioners work with them to look holistically at their life and establish where they can get them better help and support in the community. This could be, for example, organising treatment for substance abuse, attending a GP appointment with them so that their medication can be better managed or engaging in talking therapies to build their resilience and improve their mental health.

Colleen was supported by the service. She said: “I would not be here without FUSE. It gave me the support when I needed it most. I first met Mark from the FUSE team in Derriford Hospital when I was under police custody and had two police officers on either side of my bed.

“At my worst, I was drinking two litres of vodka a day and very angry at everything around me. But since that day, I have made changes to my life. I most recently (with the support of Mark and the drugs and alcohol charity Harbour) completed a full detox for alcohol, regulated my type one diabetes and my overall health is a lot better. Mark has always gone

out of his way to help me get through things and his phone is always on for me to contact him or leave a message.

“FUSE is a project that works because when you are stuck in your own head and you don’t feel you have genuine support, you feel very lost. All it takes is that one person who genuinely cares. For me, Mark contacting me and coming out of nowhere in the Emergency Department was like finding a guardian angel. FUSE is an amazing service and has the potential to help so many more people.”

Advanced health improvement practitioner Mark Jones said: “We focused on Colleen’s mum and how proud of her she would be if she could turn her life around. It is amazing to see her living life now. She is full of joy; she is able to visit

her mum and she has had zero visits to the Emergency Department.”

Latest data shows of those discharged from the service in September 2023, their attendances to the Emergency Department reduced by 75% from 116 to 29 in March 2024. During the same six month period, there was also a 74% reduction in call outs for the South Western Ambulance Service.

Advanced nurse practitioner Paula Luke leads the FUSE team. She said: “No-one goes and sits in the Emergency Department for ten hours if they don’t need something or they are happy. What we do is find out what is making them unhappy and solve those issues.

“It is very difficult to tackle your problems if you think you are the only person having to do it. If you have got somebody to walk beside

you and point you in the right direction, then it gives you the strength to lift yourself out. That also becomes self-perpetuating because the client then becomes more confident and they are willing to try something on their own.”

This work is part of the Healthy Lives Partnership, a collaboration between University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust and Livewell Southwest. It aims to bring about the benefit of joined up care for people in Plymouth, West Devon and the South Hams.

Practitioners help people to reengage with services provided by different agencies from the voluntary sector such as Elder Tree and Age UK, through to GPs and South Western Ambulance Service.

Senior health improvement practitioner Tristan Merrifield said: “With our help, these individuals are going on to thrive in their lives, as opposed to just going through the revolving door of the NHS.”

Livewell Southwest’s deputy chief operating Officer Sara Mitchell said: “The FUSE team are offering something very new in terms of seeing people who attend the Emergency Department a minimum of five times in one year. The service, which is bespoke for each person, enables consistent engagement and proactive support with a practitioner who works using a very flexible approach to address life challenges.

“Early indications are encouraging, suggesting that this model is very successful in working with a wide range of people.”

LOTTERY BOOST FOR SOUL SINGERS

Local singing group, Soul Singers CIC has been awarded funding from the National Lottery Community Fund to continue their mums singing for health provision in Plymouth for a further twe years.

“We are absolutely delighted, it means that we will be able to sing and support more mums and their families in both the local and wider community of Plymouth,” said director, MJ Saunders when she found out the news.

Soul Singers has been providing mums with something a little different for the past five years. The sessions they run focus on mums’ wellbeing, providing them with the opportunity to do something fun for themselves.

The weekly sessions encourage mums to sing, have fun and connect with other mums but they don’t sing the usual nursery rhymes! The songs are very varied, encouraging and empowering covering a whole

range of genres. But the most important aspect is that they have fun. They are not a choir –they just sing for fun!

The sessions started after director, MJ Saunders studied the effects of singing to improve

mental wellbeing and have been called a ‘lifeline’ by some of the mums who attend.

MJ Saunders said: “Being a mum is hard and often very isolating. Mums look after everyone else but often forget to

look after themselves.”

The sessions have had such positive feedback with one mum stating: “It is the only group that I go to because I felt genuinely welcomed, where mums don’t have cliques and it is judgement free.” Another said that by attending ‘it changed her life’ as well as it being a ‘bringer of joy.’ There is also research to suggest that singing helps reduce symptoms of postnatal depression which can affect any new mum. Expectant mums are also encouraged to come to the sessions. Singing is great for baby bonding: both in and out of the womb!

The sessions are for all mums to attend, whether they have babies or children at school. In the Autumn the popular New mums sessions will return along with a new session designed for Mums who are working in the week and cannot attend the weekly daytime sessions. Check the website for further details at www.soulsingerscic. com

Members of the FUSE team

Ian McFadzen

Community hub offers more support in Southway

Residents living in Southway will be supported at all stages of life with the opening of a new Family and Wellbeing Hub at the local community centre.

Southway Community Hub has been offering community support and activities for many years, run by Southway Community Group CIC and local volunteers.

In partnership with Plymouth City Council, the family and wellbeing offer at the centre has been developed and this will be celebrated at a launch event next week.

The launch of the new Family and Wellbeing Hub took place on August 22 with a range of free activities for everyone to enjoy including circus skills, face painting and arts and crafts. Local residents were invited to go along and find out more about the new support that will be on offer.

Southway Community Hub offers a community café and is also home to one of the council’s Youth Centres. With the addition of the new Family and Wellbeing Hub, it will provide a one-stop shop for residents of all ages to access support and activities, with everything from parenting guidance and volunteering opportunities to debt advice and fitness sessions.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “Making Plymouth a great place to grow up and to grow old is a key priority for us, and we want to support all our residents to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

“Southway Community Hub has always provided a great range of support to local residents, but this has now been enhanced by the new Family and Wellbeing Hub which means people in the local

area have a fantastic centre on hand to help them at every stage of life.”

In 2023, Plymouth City Council was awarded a share of £300 million from the Government to help develop new Family Hubs and establish Start for Life, a programme providing support to parents for the first 1001 days of their child’s life, starting from pregnancy.

The Southway Family Hub, run by Barnardo’s, brings together local services that can support families at every stage, from pregnancy until their child is 19 years old, or 25 years old for young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

Sarah Crawley, director of Barnardo’s South West, said: “We are delighted to be managing the new Southway Family Hub which will provide unprecedented support for parents from before their child is born until they reach adulthood.

“Every stage of parenthood brings its own joys and challenges and the hub will be able to help every step of the way. In recent years we’ve had

a pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis which has made parenting more difficult, but having a family hub in the community means you are not alone. It’s a really exciting time and we look forward to welcoming families through the doors.”

Wellbeing Hubs aim to improve people’s health and wellbeing by building a greater sense of community and bringing local services together in one convenient location. This includes services helping people to improve their physical and mental health, reduce social isolation and take part in new activities that support their wellbeing.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Our network of Wellbeing Hubs play a really important role by connecting people to the huge array of services and activities available locally that will help them to stay fit and well, so it’s brilliant to be extending our offer in the north of the city with the launch in Southway.”

The new Wellbeing Hub is the eighth to open in Plymouth and will be run by the Southway Community Group CIC, who are currently celebrating ten years of community work in Southway.

Karen Stewart, wellbeing adviser at the hub, said: “We”ve been working in Southway for a decade now to bring local residents together and create a space they feel is their own. We’re very proud to have been asked to expand on all that work and to run the Wellbeing Hub for this area. We feel it can only serve to make Southway an even better place to live.”

Find out more about Family and Wellbeing Hubs in Plymouth on the Plymouth Online Directory: www.plymouthonlinedirectory.com.

Police ask public to ‘make your first call the only call you make’

Complaints about the smell of the sea near a beach, ice that has been ‘stolen from a drink’ and someone trapped in a jumpsuit are just some of the inappropriate calls received by Devon and Cornwall Police control centres recently.

On an average day, call handlers deal with 859 emergencies and 1,195 non-emergency calls. These numbers rise significantly at certain times of year – especially during the summer months when millions of visitors arrive to holiday in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Call handlers are put under significant stress trying to answer calls in a timely manner, to find solutions to callers’ issues and to ensure the right response when people need it most.

Pressure on emergency services is not helped by a significant number of accidental or inappropriate calls, which tie-up staff and prevents them dealing with real emergencies.

Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Leaper said:

“The Force understands that some calls are made accidentally and the quickest way for us to deal with them is for the caller to stay on the line so we can confirm that they don’t need any help.

If it happens to you please don’t hang up, stay on the line and explain what’s happened. We will understand.”

Every call made to 999 is investigated, even when someone hangs up. Calling by accident is not the only reason people hang up. Someone might be scared, unable to talk – or even forced to put the phone down, so the police have to investigate to find out what has happened. It can take up to 20 minutes to confirm all is ok each time a call is terminated.

ACC Leaper continued: “Staying on the line means we can make sure you are ok in a fraction of the time, freeing up our staff to answer more calls and help more people.”

The Force is equally concerned with the number of calls received that should really be directed to other agencies. This month, Devon & Cornwall Police have launched a campaign aimed at informing people who they should call in a variety of scenarios.

“We know there are lots of things that people need help to get sorted out – everything from swarms of bees, fly tipping, noisy neighbours and lost dogs to untaxed or abandoned vehicle. All those things are really annoying and you might need support to get them sorted out, but when you do, who are you going to call – the police isn’t always the best or the correct place to start.” said ACC Leaper.

Abandoned cars and antisocial parking are dealt with by the local council. Untaxed cars should be reported to the DVLA. Lost or found dogs should be reported to the dog warden. Noisy neighbours should be reported to the local council environmental health team.

Minor traffic collisions don’t need reporting to the police provided you have exchanged details with the other party.

By making the first call the only call made, it helps resolve the issue more quickly and helps the police concentrate on the things that keep communities safer.

Not sure who to call? Go to the report tab on the force website for information - devoncornwall.police.uk

Coun Jemima Laing cuts the ribbon to mark the opening of the new hub

Southway Community Group CIC celebrate 10 years of serving the local community

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advanced learning facilities

City College Plymouth is investing more than £2.5million developing modern and innovative learning spaces with cutting-edge technology, to meet the evolving needs of employers across Plymouth and the South West.

The work - which will be completed in time for the new academic year in September - will provide students and staff with enhanced learning and teaching environments.

The building work will allow the college to expand its T Level curriculum in three key areasengineering and manufacturing, health and science, and business.

“It's

great exercise, I think of it as I'm getting paid to do my steady

-Marianne

T Levels are a technical qualification designed to provide an alternative to A Levels for students aged 16 to 19. Developed in collaboration with employers and businesses, they provide a mix of classroom learning and industry placement.

Dominic Jennings, head of Estates at City College Plymouth, said the investment in innovation and technology underpinned the College’s commitment to providing state-of-theart teaching environments, developed in collaboration with industry partners.

He said: “Classroom learning is a vital part of the T Level experience, and these redeveloped, specialist areas will enrich learning, ensuring students are well prepared and work-ready.”

College chief executive, Jackie Grubb added: “The South West is home to 130,000 companies spanning a range of sectors and

emerging opportunities like the new Freeport, meaning demand from employers for skilled people is only set to grow.

“This is an investment for the future as our work continues with employers across the region to address the skills gap facing us all. The workforce of tomorrow needs the best facilities and learning experiences today and these new, state-of-the-art environments will boast the very latest technology and equipment to provide an enhanced learning experience ripe with innovation.”

This includes an Anatomage Table - a pioneering 3D virtual

Adults, young people and active seniors make up our brilliant team of delivery people across Plymouth. Get in touch to be part of the team. Own transport helpful but not essential. Scan to apply.

dissection and visualisation tool, which provides an incredible hands-on learning experience.

The engineering and manufacturing work is a £1.55million investment, including the creation of a mechatronics lab, immersive classroom and fabrication workshop.

A £596,000 project refurbishing the second floor of the college’s tower block will provide new health and childhood education facilities, including a room mirroring a hospital ward, a retractable lecture theatre, and childcare and breakout spaces.

A £599,000 development

programme for business is creating agile, professional spaces including boardrooms, an innovative lecture space, independent study areas and a professional development room for guided learning.

The redevelopment is being carried out by one of the region’s leading contractors, Plymouthbased TEC Construction.

The work, which is taking place at the heart of the College’s Kings Road campus, will allow employers to interact and work closely with students, encouraging entrepreneurship and collaboration so that students are prepared for their full skills journey.

They will be more ‘work ready,’ possessing the right skills and making them highly employable in an ever-shifting jobs market.

James Carson, managing director of TEC Construction, said: “It is fantastic to be working with City College Plymouth to deliver the landmark T Level project.

Designed around the needs of today’s learners, the new spaces will improve and enhance the learning experience for students, while also setting a benchmark for similar construction projects in the future.

“Committed to delivering industry-leading construction projects, and with proven experience of success in the education sector, we are proud to be leading the new T Level facilities, which will further support the continued growth of skilled workers across the region.”

Police reach out to local people in Plymouth on the doorstep

Police in Plymouth are on a drive to connect with people in the city to strengthen relationships, build public confidence and increase reporting of crime.

Neighbourhood police officers in the centre of Plymouth, who are responsible for providing visible ‘on the beat’ policing, are carrying out door-to-door introductions while on patrol across Prince Rock, Plymstock, Mutley, Greenbank and Efford.

Police Sergeant Justin Gool said: “While on patrol, officers will knock on the doors of homes across various neighbourhoods. The purpose of these check ins is to give the public a chance to meet our officers and raise any concerns they have. This could be a question about crime prevention they may have and it’s also a useful way for us to gather information about safety and crime in the area.

“The information we collect allows us to build a clear picture

of where crime is happening and when, which means we are able to plan proactive activity such as increased patrols, to deter and target offenders.

“Not only that, but it’s an opportunity for us share how the public can keep up to date with what their local police teams are doing to keep the

community safe.”

Police Sergeant Kirstie Swift said: “This work is essential to make sure that we build strong links within our community. After all, we’re here to serve and protect the public and an effective way of making sure we do this is by officers visiting and introducing themselves in the

neighbourhoods we look after.

“By meeting residents face-toface, we hope to build trust and encourage communication with our officers; we want people to feel comfortable reaching out to us. Our aim is to show the public that we’re accessible, approachable and here if anyone is in need of help.”

The police team are carrying out this community engagement in the Prince Rock, Plymstock, Mutley, Greenbank and Efford areas and will then focus on surrounding neighbourhoods in Plymouth city centre.

Anyone interested in finding out more about what the neighbourhood officers do in the local area, can visit the ‘what’s happening in your area’ section of the Devon & Cornwall Police website at www.devon-cornwall. police.uk/area/your-area.

Dates for upcoming public meetings can also be found there, where the public can discuss local issues and priorities.

Dominic Jennings, head of Estates at City College with James Carson, managing director of TEC Construction

on how often local council elections are held in Plymouth

Should Plymouth City Council:

Change to ‘Whole Council Elections’ (One election every four years, where all councillors are elected at the same time)

Keep the current system (One councillor in each ward is elected every year for a four-year term. Elections occur every year, for three years, with no election in the fourth year) OR

Take the survey and give your views at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/electioncycle by 22 September 2024.

Barbican - Royal William Yard - Cremyll - Saltash

WATERLINK FERRY NETWORK

All set for a sensational Seafest!

SOMETHING FOR ALL TO ENJOY AT MOOR’S EDGE U3A

People living in the north of the city who are retired or semiretired, feeling lonely or looking for something to do and meet new people is invited to visit Moor’s Edge U3A.

The group meets at 2.30pm on the second Friday of each month (apart from August for our summer break) at the Woolwell Centre, PL6 7TR. People can attend twice as a visitor before deciding if they would like to join.

A variety of interest groups are run by members for members which can be joined once someone is a member. Groups include Tai chi, three walking groups for various abilities, scrabble, country dancing, wine tasting, coffee and chat. This is just a selection and there is something for everyone.

The garden group visited Plant World in August enjoying lunch in the café following an interesting uphill and down dale walk round the gardens. A photo of the one of the flower pot men fishing which the group came across on the walk is shown here.

The singing group will be presenting a concert on the afternoon of September 20 at 2pm at Roborough Methodist church.

More than 20 members enjoyed afternoon tea at Yelverton golf club recently and there is a planned trip to Calstock by train in September.

Moor’s edge U3A look forward to welcoming new visitors at one of the monthly meetings and have volunteers to answer any questions. Visit www.u3asites.org/moorsedge/events for more details. There is also a Facebook page (Moor’s Edge) further information and photos can be found.

Diary dates: September 13 Samantha Marcumb on junior field gunning; October 11 The evolution of weather forcasting in the UK

Seafest Plymouth 2024 is returning with a brand new partnership announcement.

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, Plymouth City Council and Plymouth Sound National Marine Park have announced a new for Seafest 2024 which takes place in September.

The hugely popular annual festival, celebrating Plymouth’s vibrant waterfront, promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

Seafest 2024 will take place on Saturday and Sunday September 14 and 15, transforming Plymouth’s historic waterfront, from Bretonside to Royal William Yard and reaching across the water to Mount Batten and Mount Edgcumbe. The festival will offer a wide range of family friendly activities, showcasing the best of Plymouth’s food and drink, local businesses, live music, entertainment, and marine-inspired fun and inspiration, both on and off the water.

The exciting new partnership with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Funds, complements Seafest, by providing an even greater focus on marine activities, opportunities to engage with the water and ways to look after the much-loved Plymouth Sound.

Jon Walton, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said : “Seafest really is only achievable because of our levy payers and key stakeholders so we always want to ensure that each year we strive to provide the ‘best one yet’.

The collaboration with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park is a natural fit –we’re really excited by the partnership.

“Seafest is the epitome of Plymouth’s waterfront – family friendly, local produce, entertainment, a fantastic local offer, showing off our wonderful marine and maritime heritage – we’d encourage everyone to come along for the weekend and ‘sea’ and experience it.”

Councillor Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council said: “This collaboration goes together like locally sustainably caught fish and chips – great as individuals, but even better together!

By partnering with Plymouth Waterfront Partnership for Seafest, we’re able to let even more people know about the UK’s first National Marine Park and all the ways our local community, and visitors to the city, can get involved.

“With a wide range of free activities that our gateway partners are providing there’s plenty of opportunities to give some a go!”

Seafest is free to attend and offers something for everyone. Highlights include:

• A mouthwatering array of fresh seafood and other sumptuous dishes from local restaurants and producers complete with the traditional fish auction in the Barbican

• A live music stage featuring a diverse range of artists and entertainment including the ever-popular shanty bands, some of which will appear in local venues in the evening

• Across Plymouth Sound National Marine Park at Mount Batten, Tinside Lido and Mount Edgcumbe there will be a wide range of taster sessions to get people in, on, under and near the water, including free swimming sessions, SCUBA diving, sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and more

• Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Mount Batten Tower on the Sunday which boasts spectacular panoramic views of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park

• At Royal William Yard there will be

marine themed activities for all the family and opportunities to explore the waters of Firestone Bay

• On the Barbican there will be funfilled activities for children of all ages including the return of the popular Seafest trail

• Ocean Conservation Trust will be hosting an evening at the National Marine Aquarium on the Sunday evening, celebrating Seafest with a special Ocean Conversations event, and The Box will have free puppetry workshops for children following the story of The Whale’s Tale

• At West Hoe Pier volunteers will be taking part in a marine clean up; visitors can also find out about the history that lies on the bottom of Plymouth Sound

• Doggy Dip - don’t miss the seasonending doggy dip at Tinside Lido on the Sunday afternoon

• And much more!

This year, Seafest’s headline sponsor is Ocean MINI with Venton’s Cyder and The Early Bird are the Seafest’s official bar and entertainment programme sponsors respectively.

For more information go to www. visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/majorevents/seafest-plymouth

Photo: Scott Grenney One Plymouth

Photo: Scott Grenney One Plymouth

Photo: Scott Grenney One Plymouth

Photo: Jay Stone

Photo: Caitlin Hodges

Traffic delays likely as construction starts on first phase of £45 million Woolwell to The George transport scheme

Construction will get under way in mid-September on the first phase of the Woolwell to The George transport improvement scheme.

Phase one will include a new signalised junction where Woolwell Crescent meets Tavistock Road, as well as walking and cycling improvements on Woolwell Road and a two-way cycle track on Tavistock Road (north of Woolwell Roundabout). This will make it safer to travel by bike or on foot and will ease congestion, making public transport more reliable.

Work is due to start on Wednesday September 11 and is expected to take about a year. Minor changes to road markings will be made overnight on Monday September 9, with the main traffic management put out overnight on Tuesday 10 September ready for work to start on Wednesday 11 September.

Activities during this phase will include earthworks to prepare for the new junction at Woolwell Crescent, diverting drainage and utility connections and constructing the new signalised crossing and shared-use cycle paths on Woolwell Road.

To enable works to be carried out safely, the speed limit will be reduced temporarily from 40mph to 30mph between Belliver (Plessey) Roundabout and the George Junction. Vehicles will not be able to travel westbound from the Towerfield Drive roundabout towards Tavistock Road (along Woolwell Road) and there will be no left turn out of Woolwell Drive. Traffic will instead be directed along Woolwell Crescent to join Tavistock Road. This closure is expected to be in place until Christmas.

There will also be a lane closure on the inbound side of Tavistock Road on the approach to Woolwell Crescent. The bus stop near Eco Way will be temporarily out of use (with the nearest stops at Roborough bypass and at Woolwell Roundabout).

Some footpaths will also be closed for safety reasons but alternative pedestrian routes will be provided.

To reduce queuing throughout construction, there will be no right turn from Tavistock Road into Woolwell Road (at Woolwell Roundabout), except for emergency vehicles and buses travelling northbound. Instead, there will be a short

diversion north to Belliver Roundabout, where vehicles will be able to turn around to enter Woolwell Road from the southbound direction.

This diversion will ensure that southbound traffic can flow more freely without having to give way to right-turning traffic at the roundabout. It will significantly reduce queues that would have been caused on the A386 back towards Dartmoor. Businesses will remain open as usual during these works.

It is very likely that journeys will be delayed through the construction area, particularly at peak times. Drivers are being advised to adjust travel times and plan their journeys ahead where possible.

Changes to these traffic management measures will be introduced as the works progress and regular updates will be provided.

Detailed design work on the second phase of the scheme, which will include the replacement of Woolwell Roundabout with a signalised junction, as well as the widening of Tavistock Road, is almost complete and we will provide updates as this progresses.

The Woolwell to The George scheme has been in the pipeline for many years. It will tackle one of Plymouth’s worst traffic bottlenecks and is a vital part of our programme to provide better links to and from the north of Plymouth as it grows.

In the coming years there are around 4,400 new homes planned in the north of the city – including 2,000 new homes at the Woolwell Urban Extension. In addition, with other developments, such as the new district shopping centre in Derriford, we will see an increased amount of traffic along this route.

The whole scheme will cost £45 million – which includes £24.9 million UK Government funding to support delivery of these vital improvements.

More information about the scheme and these initial traffic measures, with maps, is available at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ woolwell-george

For regular scheme updates and advance notifications of road layout changes email the main contractor Balfour Beatty at WTTGcomms@balfourbeatty.com.

Liver patients will be treated in new-state-of-the-art unit

Patients with liver disease will be treated in a brand new state-of-the-art space thanks to the refurbishment of the South West Liver Unit by University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust

Celebrating the official opening on August 21, the Trust welcomed the chief executive of the British Liver Trust, Pamela Healy to cut the ribbon to the new unit.

Ms Healy said: “We are delighted to see the incredible work taking place at the liver unit at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth. With the rising prevalence of liver disease across the UK, it is crucial that those diagnosed have access to high-quality specialist care. This enhanced facility will not only offer advanced services but also play a vital role in early testing and diagnosis, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.”

Professor Matthew Cramp, Consultant Hepatologist at UHP said: “We’re delighted to welcome patients to share their experiences as part of today’s event and underline the

importance of patient focused outstanding care for people with liver disease.

“We’re really proud of the new unit and the work done by all of our teams to get it completed and looking so fantastic. We’re delighted to have moved in and staff are enjoying working in the new space.

The unit has 23 beds and will also look after patients before and after liver transplants. Staff in the unit have been involved in designing the new environment to make it feel less clinical. They have chosen colour themes to create a restful and mindful environment, been involved in the equipment used, and overhead lighting with nature themes have been installed. The unit has a new quiet room to facilitate a compassionate space for difficult conversations for patients and their families.

Liver disease is the only major disease where death rates are rising. Death rates from liver disease are 4 times higher

than they were in 1970. Other major non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and lung conditions have seen a fall in death rates over the same period. Over 9,000 people were admitted to hospital due to liver disease in the South West in 2022/23 and tragically, there were 959 premature deaths from liver disease in 2022.

Sadly, stigma stops almost one in three people from seeking medical care, which can hamper access to earlier detection, treatment and care.

It is estimated that 90% of liver disease is preventable with the main causes of liver disease being obesity, an undiagnosed hepatitis infection and alcohol misuse. People can reduce their risk of liver disease with some simple lifestyle changes such as trying to maintain a healthy weight and not drinking too much alcohol.

Learn more at www.nhs.uk/conditions/liver-disease/ alcohol.

How a little girl’s dream of being a ‘dolphin doctor’ led her to Plymouth University

Tsian Deslandes was born in England, grew up in Trinidad and told her mum she would be a ‘dolphin doctor’ from the age of three. But, with caring responsibilities and unsure of her academic ability, she wasn’t sure if she would be able to pursue higher education. After a call to the University of Plymouth’s Clearing hotline, she was accepted so began to plan her future halfway across the world.

Now in her first year of a degree in Ocean Science and Marine Conservation, she describes the ‘best decision she ever made’ and is helping students secure their own future by answering the phones in this year’s Confirmation and Clearing call centre.

Coming to university is a big life experience for anyone, but for Tsian Deslandes it was huge.

Within two weeks she’d gone from working in a shop in her home of Trinidad to studying at the University of Plymouth.

Supporting her single mum to look after her grandma, and not convinced she was clever enough to go to university, she completed her A Levels and was working out what to do next.

But her mum encouraged her to consider Clearing and, after a phone call and emails to confirm her place, there was nowhere else Tsian wanted to go.

She said: “I grew up by the sea and told my mum I wanted to be a dolphin doctor, so I wanted to study by the sea too. I remember a University of Plymouth international representative handing me a prospectus when I was young. It looked wonderful but, frankly, I didn’t think I was clever enough for uni, let alone come to one over in the UK.

“My mum is my absolute inspiration and when she mentioned Clearing, I thought ‘why not?’ let’s just pick the phone up and see what happens. Never in a million years did I think I’d be accepted and moving halfway

Millfields Inspired charity receives boost for its funds

A Plymouth charity has been presented with a cheque from the Queen Victoria Masonic Lidge in St Budeaux. Millfields Inspired is a charity established and supported by the Millfields Trust with the aim of working with young people and their families from local neighbourhoods to provide a pathway from school to future careers.

They also support levels of literacy, foster resilience and develop community cohesion.

The charity was in dire need of teddy bears and notebooks and the money donated will go towards helping with the purchase of these items.

The cheque was presented to Kelly Burch, develoipment manager of Millfields Inspired by Jack Corner, newly-installed Master of Queen Victoria Lodge. (See photo below).

across the world within a fortnight.”

She said: “Long-term, I want to work in protection and restoration of sea animals, alongside improving access to the sea and its benefits for disabled people. My cousin has non-verbal cerebral palsy and she’s my inspiration for the goal. Having a foundation year has enabled me to learn the academic skills that underpin the learning, and the whole course has been just what I wanted to do.”

In addition to the academic requirements, Tsian had to adjust to a new city in a new country, and passes on her advice to those worried about fitting in.

“I just threw myself into university life. The best thing you can do is get out there and meet people. I went to international welcome week, found friends, and they’ve become like my family. Within my time at uni I’ve also been chair of the Students’ Union Tropical Island Society, and chair of the Environmental Society, where I organise beach clean ups. It’s certainly been busy but surrounded

by great people, it’s been brilliant.

“Even on a day when things get difficult, I just walk up to the Hoe, it’s the most wonderful setting and helps me stay connected with the ocean.

“I also think one of the best things I’ve done is become a Student Ambassador, and through this role I support new and prospective students – which I’m really looking forward to doing through the Confirmation and Clearing Call centre. People are so nervous when they phone up, and I remember that only too well, so I just imagine I’m talking to myself when I speak to them.

“Wherever you’re from, uni is a big leap, you’re going to be afraid. Half of my heart is in Trinidad, half is at home, but get the right people around you and it makes it 10 times easier. People are friendly here and I feel so supported, so just give us a call, you never know where it might lead.”

To find out more about Conformation and Clearing at the University of Plymouth www. plymouth.ac.uk/study/clearing

Harry’s a wonder on two wheels!

A nine-year-old Plymouth boy is making a big name for himself on two wheels.

Harry Totham from Elburton is passionate about cycling and since joining Dartmoor Velo Club less than 18 months ago he has become a stand out rider in his age group.

Harry’s cycling journey gained momentum with his participation in the Tour de Moor last year. He tackled the challenging 33km route to raise funds for St. Luke’s Hospice, successfully raising over £650 for the charity, highlighting his determination to take on a meaningful challenge at such a young age whilst also supporting a good cause.

In the last year he has completed two cycling series – South West Cross Country and South West Youth Series Road Racing – each consisting of five events. His hard work and dedication were rewarded when he secured second place in the Under 10s category for both series.

Harry travels to Tavistock twice a week with his dad for club training sessions at the Dartmoor Velo Club and also trains at home on his Zwift hub trainer.

He also goes on regular bike rides with his dad after school.

Harry is also dedicated to encouraging other children to take up cycling. He participated in the Yelverton Rotary fun day, where he helped teach younger children basic

bike safety checks and demonstrated racing techniques he has learned at the club.

Harry’s mum Emma said: “As Harry’s parents we are extremely proud to be his biggest fans. His friends and family have also been very supportive and are delighted by his achievements.”

Harry’s achievements at such a young age underline his dedication and enthusiasm for cycling. He continues to excel and inspire others and shows no signs of slowing down.

Harry in action in a recent event

Tsian working in the Clearing call centre

Tsian aged eight gets up close to a dolphin at the Miama Seaquarium

Gables appeal for help to keep rescue dogs sizzling in the heat stay cool

Gables Dogs and Cats Home have been working very hard to keep their residents cool during the hot weather and have decided the time has come to install permanent air conditioning units in their kennels.

As hot weather and heat waves are here to stay, the temporary portable air conditioning units they have been using are just not an option long term and not very cost effective.

New units will also have the added benefit of providing heating during the winter months. The cost for these commercial units to be installed in the buildings most needed is £12,600.

General manager, Claire Sparkes said: “We are looking to our wonderful supporters to help us continue to provide the best care and living conditions we can for our vulnerable dogs. The brachycephalic (flat faced) breeds really struggle in the heat and we always worry about our residents anytime we have a heat wave.

“The staff do their very best to keep our animals cool and always come up with great new ways to do this but it is time to take that worry away for good. It is a lot of money to ask for but we feel it is so important to keep our animals safe and comfortable now and for many years to come. Any amount you can donate is so appreciated and we know that lots of small donations really do add up.”

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 raise enough funds for these vital air conditioning units. Anyone wishing help ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to their ‘air conditioning appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or cheques can be posted to Gables Dogs and Cats Home, 204 Merafield Road, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 1UQ.

Alternatively, donations can be made online by visiting: www. justgiving.com/campaign/gablesaircon or www.paypal.com/ paypalme/gablesdogsandcats

Rare leopard Lena is perfect match for Dartmoor Zoo’s Freddo

It’s a match! Dartmoor Zoo’s Amur Leopard Freddo is getting a girlfriend!

The long-awaited Amur Leopard arrival has been confirmed with Dartmoor Zoo ready to open their gates to Lena, who is coming from Colchester Zoo. Lena is from the a critically endangered species. At four years and eight months of age, Lena has been chosen as a suitable breeding mate for Freddo and this much anticipated pairing has been planned since Freddo’s arrival in November 2023. Colchester Zoo’s carnivore lead Emma commented: “Lena Is a feisty female Amur leopard with a big personality and a lot of character. She can be a little stubborn at times. She’s very inquisitive, enjoying all types of enrichment especially spices and perfumes. She will be missed by us all on the carnivore team at Colchester Zoo but I for one can’t wait to visit her at Dartmoor.”

Dartmoor Zoo’s chief executive David Gibson commented: “The arrival of a female Amur Leopard, to hopefully breed with our resident male Freddo, is the latest in our continued development of the animal collection here at Dartmoor Zoo.

“One of the many essential roles that modern zoos perform is the Conservation Breeding of Critically Endangered species such as Amur Leopards. We are delighted to be able to play our part in the continued conservation of this iconic and charismatic species.”

Lena will be moving into an off-show habitat while she adjusts to the move and the team will be regularly monitoring her welfare during this time. Observations will also be carried out to assess Lena and Freddo’s interactions, whilst plans will be made to work towards an introduction in the future.

SPRAY FOAM INSULATION REMOVAL SCAM WARNING ISSUED

Trading Standards is warning consumers to be wary of cold callers pressuring them to pay to have spray foam insultation removed – insulation that in many cases was only installed in the last couple of years.

The warning follows a recent increase in the number of complaints about the way these products and services are sold.

Last year Heart of the South West Trading Standards warned householders that some businesses were aggressively selling spray foam insulation, irrespective of whether it was suitable for the property or not.

Customers were being cold called, and often pressured into unnecessary work costing thousands of pounds.

Now Trading Standards says that it has noticed a steep rise in complaints about cold callers offering to remove the insulation.

These companies often call consumers out of the blue, claiming that the insulation that was put in was incorrect and will cause problems with insurance, damp and future house sales.

Often the original company that installed the insulation will have ‘disappeared’ or stopped trading and the ‘new’ company will offer to come to the rescue and remove it - for a price.

In reality these two companies are sometimes either one and the same or have close links and have passed on details of who to target.

While spray foam does lead to problems if applied incorrectly or on a property that isn’t appropriate, it is important that consumers are aware that these new companies are not always legitimate.

Senior keeper Ashley Matthews said: “We’re all very excited to welcome Lena to her new home. We’ve recently had a successful lynx introduction, resulting in two kits being born this May, so we’re thrilled at the possibility of another, hopefully successful introduction here at Dartmoor Zoo.

“Introductions can often take a while, and this is not something we want to rush. Our top priority will always be focussed on the welfare of both Freddo and Lena, so regular observations will be conducted, both individually and together, to see how they are adjusting and interacting during this time.”

Predominantly found in the border areas between Russia, North-East China and even

Korea, Amur Leopards gravitate towards densely forested areas, avoiding grasslands or overpopulated areas. Much of this area, however, is regularly under threat from unsustainable logging, forest fires, agriculture and industrial development.

With around 200 in captivity and 100 left in the wild, Amur Leopards are considered the rarest cat in the world, so Dartmoor Zoo are incredibly proud to host a breeding pair and continuing to contribute to global conservation efforts through research, education and hopefully soon, some Amur Leopard cubs!

To find out more about Dartmoor Zoo visit www. dartmoorzoo.org.uk.

Rosie Rowe from Heart of the South West Trading Standards, said: “Always be cautious if you are cold called or receive an unsolicited phone call about your insulation. Ask yourself how the caller can have known that you had this product in your loft.

“Do your own research before agreeing to any further work and seek an independent expert opinion on whether it needs to be removed.

“The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has produced a consumer guide for spray foam, and their website allows you to search for a qualified, professional surveyor in your area.”

The guide can be found by visiting www. rics.org and search for Spray Foam.

Rosie added: “Don’t be pressured into agreeing anything over the phone or on the doorstep. If you do decide that the insulation needs to be removed, check for membership of reputable trade associations or trader accreditation schemes like Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme.”

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Events and Cemeteries, said: “This is a reminder to our residents to always be vigilant when you receive a cold call from an unknown source, just because someone knows your basic details doesn’t mean they’re legitimate.

“Seek professional advice on whether any insulation does need to be removed, before making a decision.”

North

Below: Lena the Amur Leopard

Photo: Colchester Zoo

This article feels especially difficult to write this month. I’m sitting down to write this a week after the devastating Southport stabbings and in the midst of the waves of violence that have swept across the UK in the days since.

In fact it’s the morning after the demonstration took place here in Plymouth city centre.

It is at times like this when words feel insignificant. Unless you have decided to entirely block out the news, you are probably feeling a deep sense of pain at all you’ve seen unfold. I know I am.

I’ll be completely honest that the attack in Southport was a news story I couldn’t spend any time dwelling on. It was too evil, too devastating and too much to process. I can’t begin to imagine the feelings of the friends and families of those girls whose lives were senselessly cut short.

Seeing the unrest and violence on the streets in various cities in the days following has also been a very troubling sight. Some of those demonstrating have seemingly given the stabbings in Southport as their reasoning for taking part. This has been condemned across much of society including by politicians from across the political spectrum. Violence, particularly violence towards innocent people, can’t be justified.

In trying to find any words to help me process all that is going on I remembered a quote from Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Himself a man of Christian faith and one who is world renowned as a

ROOM FOR PEACE

champion of peace and nonviolence.

The quote reads as follows:

“Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

It is a profound statement made even stronger by the fact that Dr King stood in the face of very real oppression and injustice, which was delivered to himself and his community, by consistently choosing non-violence and a way of peace. He walked what he talked.

Whilst I totally condemn the violence and unrest we’ve been seeing it is clear there is real anger and deep feeling amongst people in our population.

Through social media and online communities this feeling is being stoked into hatred. Fear and lies being used to incite violent action.

One article on the BBC website entitled ‘Mosque leaders find moments of hope after violent disorder’ is certainly worth searching out.

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms Plymouth

It tells of a very different scene at a demonstration in Liverpool to many of the other such events.

Demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the UK’s oldest mosque but rather than violence taking place, muslims from the community met with those outside and spoke with them and they even shared food together.

According to the article the chairman of the mosque, Dr Abdul Hamid, said he believes there to be a very real fear of the unknown on the behalf of the demonstrators towards the muslim community. He is quoted in the article as saying ‘If they don’t get answers, they will try to find any excuse to label you.’

Again the power in these words is in the action that Dr Hamid and others in his community took at that time to back up what they were saying. They took it upon themselves to reach across the divide and listen and talk with the demonstrators to break down any fear of the unknown by becoming more known to them as people. It is far harder to hate someone who you understand and even befriend. When you

recognise shared humanity, shared struggles and shared pain, fear and hatred lose their grip.

If you’ve read any of these articles in the past you’ll know by now that I am a Christian. You’ll probably know as well that Christ had much to say about love and peace. Like Dr Martin Luther King Jr he lived a life which exemplified that which he spoke about.

Famously Jesus said ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’ and when pressed on who one’s neighbour is he shared the story of the Good Samaritan.

The message being that the Samaritan was a neighbour to the person he was speaking to. The person he was speaking to was a Jewish teacher of the law. The significance being that at the time there was much mistrust, fear and even hatred between Jews and Samaritans.

Christ’s call to love your neighbour is a call to love those who are different from you. Be that socially, ethnically or religiously different. To love as yourself is to first know that you are loved. My firm conviction is that it is a profound reality to know we are all individually loved by the one who made us. As we each get to know this more we leave little room for hate and much room for peace.

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

Plymouth community radio station receives funding boost. Can you help finish the job?

Following receipt of a DAB licence from Ofcom, Cross Rhythms Plymouth is running a crowdfunding campaign to raise the money to start transmission on this platform.

The station, which has been broadcasting on 96.3FM in the city since 2007, has received a significant boost in their fundraising efforts from a donor agreeing to match fund all proceeds raised towards the cause.

Cross Rhythms Plymouth has a great reputation locally for broadcasting a message of hope through Christian music and community content. Many local organisations have been interviewed over the years to share what they do in the city.

A recent example being an interview with Roger Rowland (pictured) from Plymouth City Brass describing how they both to engage musical novices to competing nationally with local skilled musicians. The target stands at £1,600 to be raised by the crowdfunder campaign.

The match funding donor will double that amount to bring the total to what is required for rental on the local DAB+ transmitter for the next year.The crowdfunder is open for public support until October 11.

To find out more about the crowdfunder campaign or to lend your support visit: www.crowdfunder. co.uk/p/dab-challenge or scan the QR code.

For more about Cross Rhythms Plymouth generally visit www.crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

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EMMA’S CRAFTY BUSINESS CELEBRATIONS

A successful Plympton based women-led crafting business is celebrating two years of success.

To mark the milestone EM-MAgination recently held a party at the Rees Centre in Plympton on featuring a family crafting session where party hats, party bags and badges were made to celebrate. After this those supporters of EM-MAgination including other local small businesses came together to share cake and a glass of fizz.

Founder and director of EM-Magination, Emma Drummond who lives in Plympton with her husband and two daughters said: “What a two years it has been. I still can’t believe that I am able to say that my job is to create happy experiences for other people. I have learnt so much about running a small business and have enjoyed every step of the way.”

The celebration was not about about the business but also the incredible community that had supported it from day one.

Emma took the opportunity to thank loyal customers, other local businesses, friends, and family for their unwavering support, acknowledging that their encouragement had been the driving force behind the business’s success.

The business’s story began with a leap of faith when Emma transitioned from a successful 12 year career as a speech and language therapist to pursuing her dream of having some more flexibility and time for her young family. As a working mum and a woman

in business, this journey has been both challenging and rewarding.

Emma said: “Anyone who has known me will tell you that never in a million years they ever thought I would leave the security of being employed to take the leap of faith to do something so different.”

Having struggled to return to work after her

first child was born due to the huge changes the world and NHS had seen after Covid, Emma also has some lived experiences of mental health difficulties which she feels are also supportive with other parents who may also be finding the journey into parenthood difficult.

EM-MAgination runs sessions for all ages,

from first footprints keepsake sessions for new born babies, to crafty crawler and messy makers for toddlers and preschoolers. They also run family craft sessions and a weekly craft-er school club for primary aged children. Sessions are designed to support creativity and freedom to create. Sessions always get a bit messy!!!

There are also monthly adult craft sessions as well as care crafters where Emma takes the crafting to care homes and residential settings.

Emma is excited to see what the future holds and what comes next for EM-MAgination. For further information visit www.emmaginationcraft.co.uk

Youngsters enjoying a craft session

Emma Drummond...celebrating two years of success with EM-MAgination

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Seven-year-old Grace will take on Tour de Moor challenge

As bold and brave as it is big hearted, the South West’s most popular charity cycling challenge returns to the wilds of Dartmoor this autumn, with fun and adventure for the whole family.

St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, which provides specialist end-of-life care across the city and its surrounding areas, is inviting cyclists of all ages and abilities to sign up for its Tour de Moor cycling challenge, taking place on Sunday October 13. Tour de Moor is best known as an adrenaline-packed, twowheel quest that can test the skills, fitness, and endurance of even the toughest of cyclists. But it’s so much more than that. With a range of distances and difficulty levels to choose from, it’s the ultimate inclusive, family-friendly cycling adventure.

Sponsored by Print, Copy, Scan, part of the Anglotech Group, Tour de Moor offers participants a choice of three distinct routes: a fierce, hill-filled 53km for those aged 12 and over; 28km of tough riding for those of nineyears old and above, and a gentler 11km ride along Drake’s Trail that’s suitable for the whole family.

Registration fees - £35 for the 53km and 28km, and £15 for the 11km - cover the running costs of the event. It’s entrants’ sponsorship and donations that really make the difference for St Luke’s, supporting the vital service it runs 365 days a year, covering Plymouth, Southwest Devon and East Cornwall. Already signed up for the popular challenge and raring to go is seven-year-old Grace Pepperell from Plympton, who has recently learnt to ride her bike. Grace, who turns eight in August, will be putting her skills to the test on the 11km, family-friendly ‘Mini Moor’ route alongside her dad Liam and grandad Ian Maguire.

Taking part in Tour de Moor is the family’s way of thanking St Luke’s for the compassionate care given to Grace’s greatgrandad in 2017 and her great-gran last year. The ride will count towards Grace’s Brownies charity badge, by helping to

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St Luke’s head of fundraising, Penny Hannah, said: “Combining fitness, fun and the phenomenal surroundings of Dartmoor, Tour de Moor is a family event not to be missed. For everyone who takes part, there’s a sense of belonging, purpose and achievement, riding to raise funds for local hospice care.

“It’s a really inclusive event that adults and children can join in, choosing the route which suits them, all riding together with the same great aim in mind – helping St Luke’s provide the very best support at home and in our specialist unit, for local people with terminal illnesses and their families.

make a difference to others. She has already surpassed her £100 fundraising goal, raising £170 for the hospice so far. Grace’s grandad Ian said: “She decided to take part for the first time this year to have fun and help raise money for more needy people. She’s looking forward to it, I just haven’t told her about the hill at the end!”

“What’s more, if like Grace every cyclist taking part commits to raising £100 or more in sponsorship, collectively we’ll have enough to care for 100 local families at home, supporting them at the most crucial of times. Plus, everyone who meets their £100 sponsorship target and pays it in by 29 November will be entered into our draw to win exciting prizes from Certini Bicycle Company.”

The Tour de Moor challenge will depart from Harrowbeer Airfield, near Yelverton, and finish at the same location. To sign up visit stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tourdemoor.

Grace with grandad Ian

Seven year

Grace is already in training for the Tour de Moor

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Consultation under way on frequency of local council elections

A consultation has been launched inviting people to have their say on whether the current local electoral cycle in Plymouth should be overhauled.

Last year councillors agreed that Plymouth City Council would undertake a consultation asking the public for their views on whether it should continue using the current cycle of local elections or move to ‘whole council’ elections once every four years.

The council currently elects a third of its councillors in three out of every four years, with no elections taking place on the fourth year.

Residents have the opportunity to express their view to retain this electoral cycle or to move to a ‘whole council’ cycle which would mean that all councillors in the city would be elected at once every four years, with no elections happening in the three years between elections, apart from potential by-elections.

The consultation provides additional information including arguments in support of both options and the deadline for feedback September 22.

Views can be registered at www. plymouth.gov.uk/have-your-say-ourelection-cycle

Councillor Sarah Allen, Chair of the Audit and Governance Committee, said: “This is a really important decision that the council needs to take, and it is vital that we gather the views from a range of people from across the city.

“It is important that people look at the pros and cons of the two options and give us their honest views. Democracy must work in everybody’s best interest. The process has to be thorough and fair so that we end up with the right system for Plymouth.

“I would encourage everyone to take part in the consultation using the online feedback form and paper copies in libraries so that councillors can understand the views of residents before making their decision.”

The timing of the consultation links to a review of electoral boundaries taking place in Plymouth later this year, led by the independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE).

An electoral review is an examination of a council’s electoral arrangements focussed on the total number of councillors elected to the council, the number of wards and their boundaries, the number of councillors for each ward and the name of each ward.

The LGBCE will undertake their own consultation on these matters in due course, when residents will have an opportunity to provide their views.

After the council’s consultation period on the electoral cycle has finished, all councillors will meet in November to consider all the feedback received and decide on whether or not to change the cycle.

Could you be a Good Neighbour Volunteer?

Plymouth City Council is reaching out to people who could spare a couple of hours a week to make a big difference in the life of someone in your community who is housebound.

They are looking for recruits to join the friendly Good Neighbour Support Volunteer team, which provides help for others with roles such as collecting shopping and prescriptions and providing a friendly face for someone who may be lonely.

It’s a rewarding role and chance to be part of a team, which provides excellent ongoing support for volunteers, including a full induction. There are also regular opportunities to meet other members of the volunteer team for a chat over tea, coffee and cake.

Many volunteers say becoming a Good Neighbour volunteer has enriched their own lives.

Suzanne, who has shopped for an elderly gentleman and visits a housebound lady for friendly conversation, said: “With too much time on my hands I decided to offer whatever talents I might have to the very worthwhile Good Neighbours volunteering service.

“So far, I’ve learned tips and hints from a chef and been humbled by the stoicism of a lady who was dealt a very cruel medical blow, plus the

bonus of gaining two new friends so far. I will continue to spread the word to influence others to volunteer to enhance a life – and certainly one’s own.”

David, who has visited many different residents, covering for other volunteers in the team when they are away, said that since becoming a Good Neighbour Volunteer he’s learned about various diets and allergies, sought out new and often exlusive products, shared recipes, stories and histories and even picked up tips on cooking, cleaning and growing things.

He said: “The positive feedback

and thanks received from people are fantastic rewards, making me feel valued and needed. We have regular, informal get-togethers where complimentary coffee and cake are welcome, tangible recognition of our effective teamwork.

“Being a volunteer is truly amazing in the way in which it so often gives back way more than is given out. I thoroughly recommend it!”

Former nurse Gail, who shops for an elderly couple, says becoming a volunteer has played a big role in restoring her own confidence after being affected by long COVID. She said: “I was apprehensive as I’d

lost all faith and confidence in my abilities, but this was an opportunity to try something new, that could be of value.

“Having been placed with two separate people and started visiting, I quickly felt a rapport with them and was amazed at how much better and lighter I felt in myself.

“Whilst actively listening and hearing them, I was able to forget about perceived problems of my own.

“Concentrating on their needs and being privileged to enter their homes and shop for them put my life firmly in perspective and has given me more than I feel I could ever offer them.

“It keeps me active, engaged and I really look forward to my visits.

“The opportunity to discuss each visit afterwards with a co-ordinator provides valuable time for reflection.

“I feel incredibly privileged to have this opportunity to be involved in such a worthwhile, important and valuable service in the community and it has opened up a new chapter in my life, for which I will always be grateful. I am loving life again.”

Anyone interested in becoming a Good Neighbour Support Volunteer should visit www.plymouth.gov.uk and search for Good Neighbour Support Volunteer.

Plymouth’s new crematorium is now open

The Park, Plymouth’s brand new crematorium is now open and Council leader Tudor Evans took the opportunity to welcome newly-elected local MP Rebecca Smith to the site.

Joined by Councillor Sally Haydon, the group toured the facility which was undergoing its very final checks before the first services this month.

Councillor Evans said: “The Park is such an incredible place and a fitting facility for generations of our residents to say their final goodbyes to their loved ones.

“Everything, from the light ceremony rooms to the way the building has been laid out, has been thought of with the needs of mourners and families in mind.

“In 2018, when we first funded this project, I said that we would build one of the most impressive crematoriums in the country and that’s exactly what we’ve done.”

Although the crematorium is still have the final touches applied, the on-site café and wake facility is already open to the public to serve refreshments for people attending funerals, for those visiting the site to pay their respects and for passersby.

With fresh cakes and good coffee, the café can be sectioned off into two rooms available for families to hire for wakes, memorial events or other family functions.

The rooms will be able to accommodate up to 40 guests or combine both rooms with the retractable wall and it will hold 75 guests.

The new facility off Haye Road in Plympton, has designs inspired by the landscape, where the buildings nestle into the slope of the site.  It is built of Plymouth Limestone, while inside light and airy ceremony rooms look out onto pooled water.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Community Safety, Libraries, Cemeteries & Crematoria, said: “I feel so lucky to be the portfolio holder and to have overseen this magnificent project to its completion.

“To think of the difference from the first time that I came here and looked at the plans is staggering. I’d like to thank Kier Construction for a job well done but also praise the council members and officers who have put their heart and soul into making The Park a success.”

Doug Lloyd, regional director at Kier Construction, Western & Wales, said “We are incredibly proud to have worked with Plymouth City Council to deliver this outstanding facility. This is more than just a building; it is a place that will touch the hearts of the people of Plymouth and the surrounding area.

With the site now operational, the Council’s Bereavement Service team will make The Park their new home. From its opening date, all cremations will take place at The Park, with Efford and Weston Mill still active for burial and memorials.

Suzanne...’very worthwhile’ Gail on a shopping trip

Councillor Sally Haydon, Councillor Tudor Evans and Rebecca Smith MP at The Park, Plymouth’s brand new crematorium

Double celebration at City College

Students and staff at Plymouth’s anchor provider of skills have celebrated outstanding GCSE results with adults achieving a remarkable 100% pass rate.

Despite a national decline in pass rates for English and maths, due to grades returning to pre-pandemic standards, students of all ages at City College Plymouth have excelled with an overall pass rate of 98%.

All students studying science subjects, including biology, chemistry and physics, achieved an exceptional 100% pass rate, with students studying level 2 technical courses in science, engineering, computing and electrical subjects also achieving a pass rate of 100%.

Among the college’s younger learners, nearly 800 students aged 16-18 resat their exams. Of these, a remarkable 98% passed – testament to their hard work and resilience.

Chief executive and principal of City College Plymouth, Jackie Grubb, said: “We are extremely proud of the results achieved by our students. These amazing results are a credit to our resilient and committed staff who have been there to guide and support them every step of the way.

“Those studying GCSEs at the college do so for a number of reasons; to retake and gain better grades in order to progress to higher level study or into employment,

to develop their career, and for interest as part of a lifelong learning programme.

“For those receiving their results today, I hope that they have finally achieved the grades they deserve. I am confident that their determination to succeed and commitment to their studies will enable them to reach their potential and to be successful and happy in the future.”

Many of the students who collected their exam results will be progressing onto higher level courses at the college with some having gained their GCSE qualification as an

entry requirement to study a degree. Others are now looking forward to enhanced job opportunities having gained these essential qualifications.

For those who do not have a GCSE in English and maths at grade 4 or above, the college’s highly successful English and maths team will support anyone with the desire to gain these vital skills. Not only will these qualifications improve employment prospects and provide greater education opportunities, strong English and maths skills will help with other aspects of life, from finance management and effective communication, to supporting

children with their homework.

To find out more about studying GCSEs at City College Plymouth, call the Customer Services team on 01752 305300.

Meanwhile City College Plymouth has achieved a perfect score of 100% in all eight of the areas assessed against the Gatsby Benchmarks Framework which looks at a school or college’s careers provision.

The Gatsby Benchmarks were developed on behalf of the Gatsby Foundation by Sir John Holman in 2013, which aimed to highlight what ‘good careers work’ looked like. They provide a clear framework for organising careers provision and have been accepted as best practice by the Government.

The eight areas covered by the Gatsby Benchmarks are a stable careers programme, learning from careers and labour market information, addressing the needs of each student, linking curriculum learning to careers, encounters with employers and employees, experiences in workplaces, encounters with further and higher education as well as personal guidance.

In addition to being one of a handful of colleges to receive 100% in all eight areas, the college also achieved a Gold Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) rating for its higher education provision in September 2023.

Tor Bridge High celebrate best ever results

Students and staff at Tor Bridge High have been celebrating outstanding GCSE results.

This year’s cohort has demonstrated remarkable ambition, courage and hard work, and the school is immensely proud to have made rapid and significant progress, securing its highest ever GCSE results.

Tor Bridge High, recently joined the Ted Wragg Trust, but the Estover school had been working with the Trust for some time. This year’s results saw double the number of children achieving a Grade 5 or higher in English and Maths when compared with last year and 69% of students achieved a Grade 4 or higher in both subjects.

Tor Bridge High prides itself on demanding the highest expectations of its students but with love and warmth. It provides a springboard for its students to go on to lead lives of endless opportunities, and their results today exemplify this. The school delivers a wide and balanced learning experience with opportunities to progress academically, emotionally and socially - enabling all

students to be the best they can be.

Tor Bridge High students were ecstatic this morning celebrating their achievements with their teachers and families:

Callum achieved grade 9s in English Language, English Literature, Science, Geography and Religious Studies; grade 8 in Maths; Distinctions in Engineering and Performing Arts. He will continue his studies as an A level student at Tor Bridge High. Kiara achieved two grade 9s in Science; grade 8s English Literature,

Maths, History and Religious Studies; grade 7 in Art and Design; grade 6 in English Language and Computer Science. Kiara is extremely excited to begin A Level study at Tor Bridge High.

Billie achieved two grade

9s in Science and a grade 9 in Maths; grade 7s in English Language, Religious Studies and Computer Science; grade 6 in English Literature, Spanish and Geography. Billie can’t wait to continue her learning as an A Level student in September. Lucas made superb progress over the course of his secondary education and will commence A Level study in September at Tor Bridge High. He achieved grade 6s in English Language, English Literature, Art and Design; Distinction in Sport; two grade

5s in Science, grade 5 in Geography, Maths and Religious Studies.

Tracy Stephenson, Headteacher at Tor Bridge High said: “Watching our Tor Bridge students celebrating their exam results with family, friends and their teachers this morning has been a very special moment.

I am so proud of all of our students who have shown tremendous hard work, resilience and determination. While these GCSE results mark an important achievement, they are just the beginning of the exciting journey that lies ahead.

“I hope all of our students take pride in what they’ve accomplished, and remember that their potential is limitless, and the future holds even greater opportunities. Well done to all our Tor Bridge High students on reaching this milestone! I look forward to welcoming many of you back to our sixth form next term and continuing your academic success with us on our journey to outstanding. For those going onto new adventures, I wish you the very best in your next endeavours.”

Lucas

Callum Kiara

Billie

New adult care facility given go ahead by city planners

Plans for a new care facility to support adults with learning disabilities and complex needs have been approved by local planners.

The new development will transform a disused depot on Outland Road, which was previously used by Plymouth City Council’s Parks department, into a modern and accessible building.

The facility will offer both daytime care, currently on offer at The Vine in Whitleigh, and short respite breaks or emergency care, currently provided at Colwill Lodge in Estover. Up to 14 adults can be accommodated overnight in the new location, which will include seven en-suite bedrooms and seven self-contained flats.

A wide range of communal spaces will give customers the chance to enjoy a range of activities during their break or daytime visit. This includes sensory rooms, activity rooms for arts and crafts including pottery, a large communal dining room for mealtimes and relaxing spaces like a TV room.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “We’re committed to making Plymouth a great place for all our residents to grow up and grow old in, so it’s brilliant to be one step closer to delivering this fantastic new facility. It will enable us to offer better support to adults with learning disabilities, and their families, ensuring they receive help and support in a purpose-built environment that meets their needs.”

Parents and carers of adults currently using

Illustration showing how the new care facility could look

the provision at The Vine and Colwill Lodge have expressed their support for the scheme and are particularly pleased with the new central location.

The Outland Road site is more easily accessible by bus and close to other facilities, and its proximity to Central Park will make it easier for people using the service to spend time in nature. One parent said they were ‘over the moon’ that the development is happening.

The facility will also be home to a Changing Places toilet which will be open to anyone who

Across: 1 Hosea,

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needs it. Changing Places toilets are larger accessible toilets which contain equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches and space for carers to meet the needs of people with disabilities.

In 2023, the Council committed an additional £2.3 million to the project due to an increase in building costs, bringing the total budget for the facility to £12.8 million. A procurement process will now take place for a contractor to carry out the construction work, which is set to start in summer 2025.

Advertise to over

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 26 with a copy deadline of September 16. The Derriford and North edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

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

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