The Plymouth Shopper April 2016

SHOP LOCAL SAVE POUNDS

Compton & Crownhill

American ‘Pilgrims’ in visit to Plymouth - see page 17

8,000 copies delivered in Compton, Crownhill and Manadon Huge scheme for Colin Campbell Court

Dramatic plans for West End

April 2016

Great prizes to be won with Foot Solutions See page 15

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

• DIAL THE EXPERTS • What’s On in the area • Community Job Shop

• Advice Plymouth • Charity news • Cross Rhythms

HOMES AND JOBS BOOST IN HONICKNOWLE - PAGE 11 Vouchers on page 3

Plymouth City Council has unveiled plans which could transform the West End of the city over the next few years.

The council is seeking funding to purchase 11 properties around Colin Campbell Court to open the way for the development of shops, restaurants and scores of starter homes.

And funding is also being sought to purchase properties in Bath Street to enable the creation of the long-awaited ‘boulevard’ to link the city centre with Millbay.

FULL STORY ON CENTRE PAGES

...and a new cultural district focused on Plymouth’s £34 million History Centre

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This is an architect’s impression of how Tavistock Place will be transformed over the next four years when the Plymouth History Centre is completed. The creation of a cultural district adjoining the Centre is included in proposals which will be considered by city planners in June.

FULL STORY ON CENTRE PAGES

USEFUL New £60m water treatment works

numbers

Emergency Numbers Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard Police general enquiries Derriford Hospital Electricity, Western Power Distribution Gas, Transco (gas emergency service) Water, South West Water Environment Agency (emergency) RSPCA

999 or 112 101 08451 558155 0800 365900 0800 111999 0800 1691144 0800 807060 0300 1234 999

Helplines Age UK Plymouth 01752 665424 Adoption UK 0844 848 7900 Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 088 Alcoholics Anonymous 08457 697555 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Childline 0800 1111 Christians Against Poverty (debt advice) 0800 328 0006 Crossline Listening Service 01752 666777 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Association 07410 977598 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 08457 909090 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 West Country Landlords Assn 01752 242980

Work will start in April on a new £60 million water treatment works to serve Plymouth and the surrounding area.

South West Water have appointed a Dutch firm to construct the new state-of-the-art facility at Roborough, which will replace the outdated treatment works at Crownhill, which was built in the 1950s and is reaching the end of its useful life.

The main construction is scheduled to finish by the end of December 2017 and become operational in September 2018. The existing Crownhill works will close a few months later.

08000 828282 0800 400600 08457 484950 01752 222221 08717 818181 08705 360360 01752 204090 01752 822105 01752 812233 01752 266030 0870 5210410

The new works will use cutting-edge treatment processes, designed and developed by PWN Technologies, which was tested at a prototype facility at Crownhill between June 2013 and June 2015.

Senior project manager Mike Court said: “The new treatment works will meet the needs of Plymouth’s growing population and provide a secure, high-quality drinking water supply for the wider Plymouth area for generations to come.”

Jack and Jills celebrate ‘good’ Ofsted rating Trustees, staff, children and families are celebrating after four of the Jack and Jills childcare sites in Plymouth were rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

The inspection judgements followed inspections by Ofsted inspectors at Jack and Jills childcare settings at Crownhill,

Plympton, Eggbuckland and Widewell.

Ofsted inspection reports from all four childcare settings stated that staff teams know the children and parents well and that children are happy and confident.

Staff teams provide a wide range of activities and use good teaching skills to plan a broad range of interesting activities.

Ofsted stated that children are making good progress in all four of the childcare settings.

Jack and Jills Plympton take from babies to six year olds and their report goes onto say that the babies and youngest children show through their interactions with staff that they feel emotionally secure.

Jo Jenkins area, co-ordinator of The Royal Naval Preschool Learning Organisation charity, commented: ‘‘This is an excellent result for four of our childcare facilities.

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

Around 150 people are expected to be employed during construction.

Jack and Jills Crownhill

“It would not have been possible without the dedication, motivation and passion from all those concerned. Everyone has worked really hard to ensure that our children and families get quality childcare whilst they are using Jack and Jill’s childcare settings around the city.”

The charity is responsible for the seven childcare settings across Plymouth and

SE Cornwall which are open from 9am – 3pm and Plympton Jack and Jills 8am – 5pm 50 weeks a year.

For more details about the Jack and Jills’ Childcare settings across the city in Crownhill, Eggbuckland, Plymstock, Torpoint, Widewell and Plympton or to book a place contact 01752 788345 or visit jackandjillschildcare.co.uk

Jack and Jills Widewell

Entertainment Theatre Royal Barbican Theatre Devonport Playhouse Plymouth Athenaeum Theatre Plymouth Pavilions Reel Cinema Vue Cinema Tourist Information National Trust Saltram Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Plymouth Arts Centre

01752 267222 01752 267131 01752 606507 01752 266079 01752 222200 01752 225553 08712 240240 01752 306330 01752 333500 01752 304774 01752 206114

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

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Shopper, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623 Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

2

The Plymouth Shopper

Jack and Jills Eggbuckland

Jack and Jills Plympton

Contractors are appointed for £12m Derriford road improvement scheme Major transport improvement plans for the north of the city have taken a major step forward, with the appointment of the main contractor for the £12 million Derriford Transport Scheme.

The contract has been awarded to Amey LG Ltd following a competitive tender process and construction work is expected to begin in July.

The Derriford Transport Scheme will help to reduce congestion along Tavistock Road and create more road

capacity for the extra traffic that will be generated by proposed developments in the area.

designs are being finalised following public consultation in 2014 and 2015.

It will also include better facilities for public transport, walking and cycling.

Derriford is an area that is undergoing vast change, significant to the city’s future. A vision to establish a new heart for the north of the city was first proposed in Plymouth’s Core Strategy in 2007 and Derriford has since been identified as a key area to deliver growth in housing, employment and associated infrastructure as part of the Plymouth Plan.

Derriford Roundabout and the William Prance Road junction will be upgraded with additional traffic lanes, new bus lanes and improved traffic signals, as well as new, marked cycle lanes and new pedestrian crossings.

Walking and cycling improvements will also extend towards The George Park and Ride.

A preferred option has been chosen and scheme

Blitz exhibition at Ford Park Cemetery Ford Park Cemetery is marking the 75th anniversary of the Plymouth Blitz with an exhibition in the Visitors Centre.

The exhibition will run until May 12 and will include a list of locations where citizens were killed (in their homes and in public places) together with a map of where the bombs fell.

Come and have a coffee and cake in the coffee shop and find out how our citizens coped with the devastation of their proud city.

Opening times are Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10.30am and 3.30pm, and 12.30pm to 3.30pm each Saturday and Sunday. There is free parking and no entrance charge.

Central to this vision is a transport network that can connect people to new homes, jobs and leisure and health facilities. The Derriford Transport Scheme is part of a master plan of highway improvements that will help to achieve this and deliver jobs and homes in the north of the city.

It will be supported by other essential infrastructure improvements in the area including the new Marjon Link Road (which opened in the autumn), the Derriford Hospital Interchange and the proposed Forder Valley Link Road.

The Heart-of-the-South-West Local Enterprise Partnership (HotSW LEP) is contributing £10.16 million towards the £12.72 million scheme.

For more information visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/ derrifordtransportscheme.

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The app, which is called Changify, is the only software in the UK that allows local residents to report and suggest priority issues for their area, and receive feedback from other app users on their ideas.

The search is now on for 200 budding local cyclists, walkers, runners to take part in the app’s trial.

This urban innovation programme is managed by local highways services provider, Amey and the Ferrovial Services Centre of Excellence for Cities in partnership with Plymouth City Council and Design 4 Social Change and is supported by Plymouth University.

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The trial will run for three months with updates posted on Twitter using the Hashtag #SmarterStreets. If you are interested in taking part please contact events@ design4socialchange.com or signup at www.changify.org/ smarterstreets.

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3

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS

Plymouth Scale Model Show 2016 Apr 2 Plymouth Guildhall This annual show, which is hosted by three local model clubs, will take place at the Plymouth Guildhall on Saturday, April 2nd. Numerous clubs from around the South West (and beyond) will be displaying their talents in scale model making.

Drop In Apr 4 and Apr 18 Arts and crafts and chat organised by Plymouth and District Branch of Parkinson’s UK. Mount Gould Methodist Church Hall, Farringdon Road, approximately from 2pm - 4.00pm.

April 18 features Dance for Parkinson’s Nearly New Sale Apr 9 Organised by Plymouth and West Devon Branch of National Childbirth Trust at Eggbuckland Community College from 10am to 12.30pm. Sellers packs available now. For more information, please contact Linda Ludlow, branch coordinator, PlymouthAndWestDevon@nct.org.uk Redesign a Chair Workshop Apr 10 Eden on the Green, 4 Ham Green, PLymouth PL2 2NH. Contact Su on 07727028236 for details and bookings.

Plymouth Parkinson’s UK Branch meeting Apr 12 Guest speakers: Kim Tieu, Professor in Neurodegenerative Disease, and Paola Simoneschi, development manager Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry. Professor Tieu will discuss his research into Parkinson’s Disease and the progress being made. He and Paola will also share details abo ut the new Derriford Research Facility and what it means for the future. Meeting takes place at Emmanuel Church Hall, Compton Avenue, Mannamead from 2.30pm - 4.30pm.

Shoe Box Appeal Apr 13 Video to be shown at St Gabriel’s Church in Peverell of children receiving their Christmas Shoebox gifts. The showing starts at 2pm and afternoon tea will be served. All donations in aid of the Shoebox Appeal. All welcome to attend. More details from Pam on 01752 310048 Bumps and Babes Apr 15 Plymouth and West Devon Branch of National Childbirth Trust are relaunching their bumps and base group at Crownhill Family Centre from 10am to 11.30am. For more information, please contact Linda Ludlow, branch coordinator, PlymouthAndWestDevon@nct.org.uk Spring Food & Craft Fair Apr 16 Stoke Community Centre, 10am to 6pm. Local crafts, plants, produce, strawberries and cream, cider and sausages and much more.

Spellbound Apr 16 and 17 A magical festival for fairies and goblins in and around the Soapbox Theatre, Devonport Park, Stoke. Children will be entertained and enchanted with a magical fairy village, storytelling, arts, music and dance. Plus there will be an evening family Ceilidh. For further information and tickets please go to www.stiltskin.org.uk Plymouth Half Marathon Apr 17 The Hoe, Plymouth Plymouth’s Half Marathon, is a much celebrated traffic-free road race, which takes in all that is great about Plymouth.

Stunning coastal views, the beautiful National Trust grounds of Saltram Park, as well as the inconic Plymouth Hoe where Sir Francis Drake once played bowls!

Family Food and Fun Day Apr 17 Central Park, Plymouth 10am to 4pm. Family fun day with lots of stalls, childrens activities, including pony rides, refreshments and more, come and enjoy a day of free fun and games. For more information visit www.leapsw.com Classical Guitar Concert Apr 22 Featuring talented guitarist David Cotter at the Victorian Chapel, Ford Park Cemetery. Tickets £8 available from the cemetery office telephone 01752 665442 (weekdays only) 10 am to 3.30pm.

All things Mods, Minis, & Mopeds Show Apr 23 Plymouth Guildhall Over 60 Retro,Vintage & artisan exhibitors. Live music, retro

• continued on page 6 4

The Plymouth Shopper

Rhymetimes Central Library Every Monday from 11am Every Thursday from 2pm Crownhill Library Every Tuesday from 2.15pm Efford Library Every Tuesday from 10.30am North Prospect Library Every Tuesday from 2.15pm Peverell Library Every Monday from 2pm Every Friday from 11am (booking needed 01752 305633) Plympton Library Every Thursday from 2pm Every Saturday from 10.30am (Under 5s club) Plymstock Library Every Thursday from 2.15pm (booking needed 01752 306606) Every Saturday from 10am Devonport Library Every Saturday from 11am St Budeaux Library Every Thursday from 10am Southway Library Every Wednesday from 10am Stoke Library Every Wednesday from 10.30am to 11am West Park Library Every Monday from 10am to 10.30am Storytimes Central Library: every Wednesday from 11am (storytime and crafts) North Prospect Library: every Thursday: 2.15pm to 2.45pm Gadget sessions Get tips and advice on how to make the most of iPads, tablets, smartphones, e-readers and more. Find out how to use your library card to download free eBooks and magazines.

Central Library Weekly on Tuesday afternoons 2pm to 3.30pm Peverell Library Fortnightly on Thursdays 10.30 to 12 noon Plymstock Library Fourth Friday of the month Plympton Library First Wednesday of the month 2pm to 4pm Southway Library Last Thursday of the month 2.30pm to 3.30pm Stoke Library Third Monday of each month 2-4pm West Park Library Second Wednesday of each month 2 to 4pm Pensioners & fifty plus action group Can we take you for a ride? If you want to meet new friends why not take advantage of our subsidised taxi service (for anyone 50+ living locally) and wishing to come to any of our meetings, but have difficulty in getting to the meeting places - like physical problems or awkward bus connections.

You can now enjoy the luxury of door to door travel, hear interesting speakers and watch a variety of cabaret acts. We meet on the second Friday of every month in the Wolseley Trust Community Building (next to Sylvia’s Café) behind the Co-op superstore in Wolseley Road, PL2 3BY, just down from Milehouse traffic lights going towards St Budeaux. We have interesting speakers chosen by members, from MPs to representatives of national and local businesses, and these free meetings are from 10.30am to 1pm. Parking is usually available and many buses stop outside the Co-op.

Our social meetings are held in Kings Tamerton Community Centre, PL5 2BH (the No 16 bus stops outside) and we have a variety of acts to entertain us, from cabaret to country & western, and these meetings are from 2pm to 4pm on some Fridays. Non-group members pay £2 but this includes a very good buffet and we always have a raffle. Anyone over the age of 50 looking for good company and interesting meetings can get more information from Mrs Margaret Williams (Secretary) Tel; 01752 350498 or email; tomag42@hotmail. co.uk Circle Dance Thursdays Yealmpton Circle Dance Group. Yealmpton Community Centre, Stray Park, PL8 2HF. 7.30pm-9.30pm. A variety of dance styles from gentle and expressive to lively and joyful.

Traditional and contemporary world music. Good for mind, body and spirit. Clearly taught and easy to learn. No partner needed. Friendly and fun. 01752 880196 for details.

Dancing Duo Fortnightly Saturdays With Henry and Jeannie at Plymouth Life Centre (Central Park near Plymouth Argyle ground) for ballroom, Latin and sequence, old time and more. Time 7.45pm to 10.45pm free parking. Entry £7. Bring your own soft drinks and and snacks. Early tea and coffee available at cafe. January 30 Fireglow Evening; February 13 - Valentine Ball with charity draw (evening wear preferred); February 27 - February Romance in Pink; March 12 Heralding Spring in green & white; March 26 Easter Dance with chocolate draw; April 9 Birthday Bash; April 23 - Red & White for St George; May 7 - Kaleidoscope of Colour; May 21 Lilactime; June 4 English Country Garden; June 18 Flaming June.

Armed Forces weekend

The hugely successful Plymouth Armed Forces Day is returning in June as a transformed spectacular two day event - Armed Forces Weekend.

The Armed Forces Weekend will be introducing some brand new spectacles including; The Rifles Freedom of the City Parade led by The Band of The Rifles, 29 Commando Royal Artillery’s Feu de Joie and Devonport Field Gun’s Association Junior Field Gun Competition.

The award winning event - Silver in the Devon Tourism Awards and Bronze for the South West Tourism Awards - raises awareness, acknowledges and supports the Armed Forces community, celebrating the incredible contribution they make to the country.

They will join two of the main attractions; a thrilling air display and a Saturday evening entertainment concert.

Plymouth City Council is hosting this two day event in association with Babcock. Mike Whalley, Babcock director for warship support said: “Babcock International Group is very proud to support Armed Forces Weekend in Plymouth and is looking forward to once again joining with the local community to celebrate the occasion with serving personnel, veterans and their families.”

“Therefore, we decided to extend the event to a two day extravaganza, with a range of new features to entice the community to keep coming back and to celebrate how proud we are of Plymouth’s naval and military history.

Due to the huge appetite of the public for this annual event, which saw around 50,000 visitors take to The Hoe in 2015, it will now take place over two days with much more to see and do.

This extravagant weekend will take place on Saturday June 25 and Sunday June 26, providing a whole host of exciting entertainment, airshows, military displays and parades that will attract visitors from far and wide.

The weekend will include an RAF and Allied Air Force Memorial Service as well as a Parade of Standards, Cadets and Veterans.

A number of arena displays will feature during the weekend which will include Military Bands, a Field Gun Crew Competition, Cadets Programme and Combat Displays. A Bustling Veterans Village, Royal Navy Village, Army Village and RAF Village supported by the Royal Marines will be on show for the local community to experience.

Kreative Kidz Thursdays Pre school messy play sessions, overalls provided, different activity each week, meet new people make new friends £3 per child includes tea/coffee for adults. 12.30pm to 1.30pm To book email: info:wkuk.org Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Krafty Kidz Tuesdays Childrens activity workshops from age 7 years. Crafts, cookery, baking, woodworking, model making, scrap heap challenge. £5 per session includes materials. 5.30pm to 7pm.To book email: info:wkuk.org Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Wk’d Wednesdays Adults activity workshops activities range from crafts, cooking, woodworking, furniture up cycling, sewing. £10 per session includes materials. Accompanied children welcome. To book email: info:wkuk.org. Every Wednesday 6pm to 8pm Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Performance Training (5-25s) Barbican Theatre’s dance and theatre workshops enable young people to build their confidence and learn new skills and techniques alongside professionals. Visit www. barbicantheatre.co.uk or call 01752 267131.

St Budeaux Square Club Meets last Wednesday each month.

Next events November 25 and December 16. All events are 11am to 3pm with full three course meal - entertainment & discussions. Entrance fee £5 all in open to senior citizens of St Budeaux to join please phone 01752-365246 Community Cafe Every Thursday in term time Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road between 10.30am and 2pm Community cafe run by learning support students of City College Plymouth, serving tea, coffee and cakes baked and prepared by the students Sandy’s Plymtones Mondays Fun choir for men and women. Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre (near the Co-op), Glen Road, Plympton. 2-4pm No auditions, no need to read music just good humour and enthusiasm needed. Contact Sandy on 336953 or 07737 461431.

Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said; “Since 2008, Armed Forces Day has gone from strength to strength, becoming more popular with the local community each year.

“Armed Forces Weekend continues to honour our service men and women and I personally would like to say a huge thank you to the Armed Forces community and look forward to celebrating the outstanding contribution the Forces make to our country.

“This event is an incredible showcase for Plymouth and we are pleased to once again be working with such fantastic sponsors.”

Commodore Ian Shipperley, Naval Base Commander, Devonport, added: “We are all really proud to be supporting Armed Forces Weekend this year.

“It is an ideal opportunity for the local community across the South West to show the depth of support for our military personnel, veterans and their families. This will be the second year I have attended in Plymouth and I am looking forward to what I am sure will be a wonderful day.”

For more information visit the website at www.plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk.

Family Events at Elburton Methodist Church Messy Church is held on the first Saturday morning of every month (excluding August), from 10.30am to 12.30pm. All welcome to join fun morning of arts, crafts, drama, music and refreshments for the whole family.

Toddler Group meets every Friday during term time from 1.30pm to 3pm. A small friendly group with lots of activities for the children, it’s a chance to chat and make new friends. For more details of both events contact Debbie on 215632 Baby and Toddler Group Friday mornings in term time St Pancras Church, Honicknowle Lane, Pennycross 10am until 11.30am. Large selection of toys, a craft table and the session concludes with nursery rhymes and action songs.

A charge of £1.50 for one adult and accompanying child/ children and £1 for extra adults covers all refreshments and craft materials. We hold occasional activity mornings and tabletop sales in the church hall to support Children’s Hospice South West.

Tuesday Coffee Morning St Pancras Church, Honicknowle Lane, Pennycross. The church cafe is open from 10 am until 12.30 on Tuesday mornings, selling coffees/teas/cake/biscuits, also locally produced organic honey and preserves.Come along to chat, read the newspaper or join in at the puzzle table.

There is a small selection of books to borrow and leading up to Christmas there will be a Traidcraft stall, selling fair trade tea/coffee, Christmas cards and small gifts.

Snack ‘N’ Chat Tuesdays Friendship group for the bereaved and those who live alone. From 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Coffee Corner in the Minster Church of St Andrew in the city centre. A community project run by two trained Counsellors and two trained listeners. Come and enjoy coffee, tea and home made cake and talk through how things are for you. Only 50p per session.

Carers Hub & Active Life 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Join a gentle health walk around historic Plympton. Are you a carer? Would you like to feel healthier, happier, meet people and have some fun? This walk is open to carers and the person they care for (if they wish to come). We meet at 10.30am outside Plympton Library and the walk ends with

• continued on page 6

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View at the top...pictured from left: Councillor Ian Tuffin, Cabinet member for Health and Social Care, Council Leader Tudor Evans, Sam Gilpin, managing director of Gilpin’s and Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance and Assets

Asbestos checks delay demolition of Quality Hotel

Plymouth City Council Cabinet members and representatives from Devon and Cornwall’s emergency services got a bird’s eye view of the Hoe and the Sound from the top of the Quality Hotel.

Demolition contractors Gilpin have been on site since mid-January to prepare the building for demolition after the eyesore was bought by Plymouth City Council.

The authority bought the 10-storey building and plan to knock it down and prepare the land for redevelopment, preferably for a hotel of international standing.

It follows growing concern about the number of vandalism and arson incidents at the derelict site which towers above the Hoe. Cabinet Member for Finance and Assets, Councillor Mark Lowry said: “As well as giving people an update, we wanted to highlight the extraordinary views and the position this hotel commands.

“We think the site offers an amazing opportunity and have already begun talking to hotel marketing experts about its potential.

“They are all really keen to see a hotel of an international standing open in time to help the city celebrate the extraordinary events that will be taking place for Mayflower 400.”

Council leader Tudor Evans added: “It was good to see colleagues from the city’s emergency services here without sirens and lights!

“We wanted to thank them for the times they have been called here and the considerable part they’ve played in keeping this neighbourhood safe, putting themselves at personal risk when dealing with incidents.”

Work carried out by the contractors so far include service disconnection, removing plants and shrubbery, site clearance as well as securing it and carrying out surveys including asbestos and noise.

Someone’s coming to find you

The hotel was built in the 1970s when asbestos was commonly used in construction. Both the council and the contractors were expecting to find the substance within the building and a thorough decontamination will start before the full internal strip out gets underway.

“As this will be carried out inside under strictly controlled conditions, the public are not likely to see any change for eight or so weeks.

Once the asbestos has been removed, dismantling the building floor by floor will happen relatively swiftly.

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • continued from page 4

• continued from page 4 catwalk, minis & mopeds, best dressed competition, beauty parlour and tearoom. For more information visit www.missivyevents.co.uk Spring Fayre Apr 23 St Budeaux Community Hall (behind the Old Blue Monkey pub), The Green, Crownhill Road from 12 noon to 3pm.

There will be several table selling goods, including wooden items, gifts, jewellery and bric-a-brac. Refreshments available. There are a limited number of tables to hire at £5 each. To book telephone 362161.

Plymstock Gardening Society Apr 25 Talk on St Luke’s Open Gardens Scheme by Wayne Marshall, co-ordinator of the scheme. Meet at church hall, Plymstock United Church, Plymstock Road. Meetings start 7.30pm, and finish 8.45pm-9pm. Admission - members £1, visitors £1.50. Tea or coffee and biscuits included in admission. Visitors welcome. If a visitor joined the club at the same meeting, their admission would be deducted from the membership fee. Yearly Membership is still only £4.50, or £3 for over 60s.

Brent Singers Apr 30 Performing Haydn’s ‘Creation’ at Buckfast Abbey at 7.30pm.

Directed by Philip Arkwright. Free admission, retiring collection.

Summer Fair May 21 Plymouth Natural Health & Healing Centre is holding a summer fair at the centre 175 Outland Rd, PL3 6AD. Lots of stalls including gifts, toys, jewellery and more. Tea and coffee entrance free.

Bus Rally Jul 16 and 17 A celebration event marking the closure of the Plymouth bus and coach station at Bretonside and Exeter bus station. A cavalcade of buses will set off from Exeter at 10.30am and travel to Bretonside. On arrival a bus and coach running day will take place from Bretonside from 12.45pm to 5.15pm.

Plymouth heritage bus running day and classic vehicle rally will take place the following day, July 17. Vehicle entries are now being accepted and details can be found on Facebook Plymouth bus weekender or at wwww.plymouthcitytransport. co.uk or www.dgot.co.uk.

April Open Day at Devonport Naval Heritage Centre The Naval Heritage Centre in Devonport Naval Base will again be opening its gates to visitors on Sunday April 3, with the theme of ‘The Story of the Devonport Naval Heritage Centre’.

A special attraction will be Courageous, the decommissioned Cold War nuclear submarine, which will re-open for public guided tours after a six-month closure for refurbishment.

A new temporary exhibition will commemorate the centenary of the battle of Jutland - telling the stories of the battle, the Devonport ships that took part, personal stories from the men at sea, events in Devonport area and Devonport Dockyard at the time and Naval technical developments relating to the battle.

There are galleries displaying one of the UK’s largest collections of 1:72 scale model warships, ranging from WW2 to the current day and exhibitions on traditional boat building and the history of navigation. Exhibitions will also cover World War One, collections of uniforms and medals and the history of the Plymouth Breakwater.

Warrant Officer Ray Crockett, of the Naval heritage Centre, said: “This will be a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and heritage of Devonport, the naval base and the Royal Navy and is an excellent day out with something for all the family.

The collection includes exhibitions from across the ages from the age of sail to the modern day. We look forward to sharing the outstanding and unique treasures of the heritage centre.’’

6

The Plymouth Shopper

the opportunity to purchase refreshments and have a chat (session finishes at approximately 12.30pm). Well behaved dogs welcome! For details contact Larissa Milden at Plymouth Guild’s Active for Life service on 01752 201891 RASC/RCT/RLC Association For any welfare problems please call 01752 343 492 or write to the army reserve centre derriford plymouth (c/o RASC/ RCT/RLCAssoc) Mayflower Offshore Rowing Club Various dates We meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 9.30am at Richmond Walk Devonport.

We row out to sea, in The Sound and up the Tamar & Plym rivers. Ages from 14 and all abilities welcome. We run learn to row sessions. Contact secretarymorc@hotmail.co.uk or Jeff Keast 07865 228800.

Plympton Fuschia and Pelargonium Group Second Tuesday of the month The group meets at Harewood House, Plympton at 7.30pm please free to come along. New members always welcome.

Full speaker programme to be found on pfgg.co.uk. Contact Marie 343386 for more information

Eggstravaganza at Aquarium

Visitors to the National Marine Aquarium during the Easter holidays will be able to learn about eggs of a very different variety, with a host of exciting activities dedicated to the huge array of weird and wonderful eggs found in our oceans.

Children and adults alike can look forward to exploring the ‘eggstra’ special ‘ocean babies’ themed trail until April 10, where they’ll discover lots of fun facts about marine infants.

A daily family friendly interactive show will also be hosted in the Just Add H2O Aqua Lab, educating and fascinating visitors by showing how marine eggs survive under water and how infant marine life copes in the big wide ocean.

Visitors will be able to get involved in the shows, with lots of volunteer opportunities and exciting experiments.

As well as an eggstraordinary Easter Show, the Aquarium will also have an Ocean Eggs & Babies trail for visitors to take part in. They’ll not only have to track down the animals around the building, but match the size of each marine egg or baby with its parent.

This, plus Easter themed arts and craft activities in the Creative Centre daily from 11am till 3pm, will make for a fun filled and interactive Easter.

Sarah Pickup, host supervisor at the National Marine Aquarium, commented: “We are looking forward to welcoming our Easter visitors to what we’re sure will be another great fortnight of non-stop fun.

“Our ocean creatures lay and hatch their eggs in an amazing number of ways, and we’re hoping that our activities prove that there’s more to Easter animals than just chicks and bunnies.”

To book tickets, visit www.national-aquarium.co.uk

Community Dance Classes Exim have weekly Toddle Together dance classes on Mondays at Plymouth School of Creative Arts on Mondays from 9am to 9.45am. Parent/carer toddler sessions open to all ages crawling to four years. £3.50. Children’s contemporary dance (6-10 years) Thursdays in term time at Plymouth School of Creative Arts 4.30pm to 5.30pm. £4.50 per class. Adult just for fun contemporary dance at the same venue 6pm to 7pm Thursdays. £4.50 per class. Also Spaceshot dance classes every Wednesday at St Aidan’s Church, Ernesettle every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm. A mixture of street dance, fitness and contemporary. Free.

Details e-mail Kerrie at kerrie@eximdance.org.uk Community Clubs at William Sutton Memorial Hall, Shelley Way St Budeaux Gardening group Mondays 10.30am to 1pm open to all to come and enjoy some gardening on the grounds of the hall. Free coached football sessions for young people aged 7 to 18 years old on Wednesdays 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

Ready2Work Work Club open to all. Fridays: 1pm to 4pm Dance Yourself Fit Every Friday morning 10.30 to 11.30 at St. Budeaux Community Centre.If you want to get fitter or simply love to dance, come along and join our friendly class.for details contact Jackie 01752 950306 Solaris Yoga Enjoy vital relaxation, strengthening and toning muscles.

Pregnancy yoga, mum and baby yoga and adult yoga held at Plymouth Swallows, St Andrew’s Cross, Church of the Holy Spirit Southway, Crownhill Fort and Jump. Please call Shilpa on 0771 1899 530 for times of classes.

Plymouth & District Koi Keepers Society First Wednesday of the month If you are interested in koi keeping, or thinking of building a pond and want to learn more, then why not come along to one of our meetings. We have guest speakers, presentations, visits to club member’s ponds before finishing the evening back at the clubhouse. At the weekends trips are arranged to visit other koi club’s ponds and koi shows and these are excellent days out. Meet at 7.30 pm in the lounge of the Tamar View Community Centre, Miers Close, Barne Barton, Plymouth. New members always welcome.

For more details of club activities please visit www. plymouthanddistrictkoikeeperssociety.org or ring Sandra Crocker on 01752 210118.

Regular events at St Budeaux Baptist Church Tuesday 1pm to 3pm Senior Friendly Club 5pm to 6.15pm Noughts & Crosses primary age children’s club; Wednesday 7pm to 9pm craft group; Thursday 11am to 1pm lunch club once a month afterwards fellowship time; Fridays 9.30am to 11.30am Jelly Tots toddler and parent group. Sundays 10.30am Service & Explorers for children monthly family service.

Port of Plymouth Canoe Association Mondays , Thursdays and Saturdays May until September. Offering various introductory, taster and child ( 8-11 ) sessions throughout the spring and summer. For more information please contact Tracy Jones 01752 510653 email intro@ppca-club.org.uk or visit www. ppca-canoe-club.org.uk Special Olympics Plymouth and District Saturday and Thursday swimming club: Saturdays are free times 12.15 pm to 1.15 pm at Plymouth Life Centre.

Thursdays from 6.30pm to 8pm £4 at the Life Centre.

Plymouth Pisces swimming club from 11.15am to 1.15pm at the Life Centre subs £2 each week £4 membership.

Tamar View disco 7pm to 9.30pm once a month Monday evenings. Highbury Disco Tuesdays and Fridays subs £2 each week. St Budeaux disco £2 each week on Thursday

evenings 6.30pm to 9.30pm at St Budeaux Community Centre. The Special Olympics Plymouth and District at YMCA Kitto centre on Wednesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm £15 membership £2 each week. Plymouth Boccia Mondays from 11am to 12 noon at the Life Centre £2 each week. Wednesdays from 10.30am to 11.45am at the Life Centre £2 each week. Saturdays from 10am to 11am at the Jan Cutting centre £3 each week National Trust Plymouth Centre Make the most of your Trust membership by joining the Plymouth Centre for even more activities. During the winter there are talks. This summer there are coach visits to: April to Treslissick House and gardens; May to the Trengwainton Garden; June to Mapperton House; July to Montacute House; August to Tyntesfield House and Village, September to Barrington Court. Membership is only £4 per person or £6 for two people at the same address. For more information and an application form call Russell on 01752 266608.

Age UK Plymouth Bridge Fridays Friday afternoons between 2pm and 4pm at Elspeth Sitters House, Hoegate Street, Plymouth. Do you play bridge and would like to join a friendly, social group. £2 per session which includes tea and biscuits. Details phone 776881.

Tots Time - St. Jude’s Mondays during term-time From 9.30 to 11.30 in the Upper Hall at St Jude’s Church on Beaumont Road, babies and toddlers are welcome with their carers at £1.50 per session. Tots Time provides toys, craft, snacks, drinks, singing, etc. For more details phone 078604573727.

Plymouth Children’s Theatre Workshop Saturdays A theatre company for children and young people aged 6 to18. Try your hand at performing, set design and construction, costumes and props, stage make up and much more. Ford Baptist Church Saturdays 1 till 4. Tots 3 - 5 years 12 till 1. www.plymouthchildrenstheatreworkshop. co.uk or 07760467857 or see our Facebook page Plymouth Karate Academy Various dates Based in Faraday Mill Cattedown the club is managed by Sensei Stuart Hick (4thDan), Sensei Jon Eaton (3rdDan) and Senpai Luke Irving (2ndDan). With more than 45 years combined experience all of the instructors are CRB checked, and teach Shotokan karate. With many advantages to learning karate, instructors teach traditional skills and Self-Defence with genuine applications to modern day situations. Students often say that they feel self-confident; have increased discipline, improved fitness levels and co-ordination. But above all, they all agree its great value for money, fun and a fantastic way to meet new friends no matter what age you are. Tuesday /Thursday Kids only Karate class 6.15- 7pm;

Tuesday/Thursday Adult Beginners - Intermediate - Advanced from 7pm onwards ; Saturday Morning class Kids Karate class 10am onwards. For more info: Stuart Hick 07970379268 or stuart.hick@plymouthkarateacademy.co.uk Pray Plymouth Every Wednesday morning Organised by Churches Together in Plymouth from 7am to 8am at Open Doors Language School, 14-15 ,Woodland Terrace Lane, Greenbank, Plymouth. Breakfast from 8am to 9am. Details 01752 249187.

Plymouth Community Choir Monday Evenings Meet at Salvation Army Congress Hall, Armada Way, Plymouth from 7pm to 9pm. New members are welcome, just come along for a free taster session at the beginning of the term, or contact the choir leader. Terms are 12 weeks long and we sing a variety of music such as gospel, contemporary, sacred, world folk, pop, funky bass lines etc.

No previous experience is necessary and you don’t need to be able to read music as we learn ‘by ear’ and repetition.

Come and give us a try and see what you think! Our choir leader is Sarah Pennington and she can be contacted on 01392 437792 or by email plymouthcommunitychoir@gmail. com We look forward to seeing you!

Tothill Sequence Dance Club Saturdays Up to date dances at Tothill Community Centre every Saturday from 7.30pm to 10pm. Leaders Peter and Dorothy Wheatley. Admission £3. Contact Bill 01752 667484, Sue 01752 651004 or Dorothy 01752 260193.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Every Monday Compton Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Group for young people aged 14 to 23 years. Meet 7.30pm at Compton Methodist Church. Details 01752 706056.

Breathe Easy Plymouth First Tuesday of the month Breathe Easy Plymouth, a local support group for anyone with a lung condition, their carers or anyone interested in supporting the group, meets regularly at Tothill Community Centre at 1.30 pm on the first Tuesday of each month. Entry is free and there is tea and coffee with biscuits, then usually a speaker. All are welcome. For more details phone Anne on 01752 402310 or Christine on 01752 220919 Arrows Kids Club Thursdays Held at Plymouth Methodist Central Hall every Thursday in term time. 6.30pm-8pm for all children aged 7-11 years.

(Please note the Drake Circus Mall opposite the church is open till 8pm on Thursdays.) Games, Craft, tuck shop, Bible stories .. lots of fun. Only 50p per week.

• continued on page 8

Whoopee! celebrations “Knowing your market is absolutely essential in this type of business,” said Alan. “Tracking the latest trends and ensuring you have the right stock at the right time at the right price is the key to success.”

Whoopee is celebrating 12 years of selling toys, puzzles and games in Plymouth City centre.

A family business, run by local husband and wife team Alan and Marcia Collins, Whoopee! opened on Royal Parade opposite the Theatre Royal in December 2003.

Stocks at Whoopee are constantly changing and Whoopee are often one of the first with new lines in stock.

“We have a fantastically enthusiastic, friendly and knowledgeable team led by Ray on the shop floor who has been with us from the start,” said Marcia.

Whoopee is where you can find something different. “We are experiencing tremendous growth in eighteenth scale die-cast cars, from movie greats, Americana of the 50s, 60s and 70s to custom cars” said Alan.

Whoopee have won many awards over the years including Primary Times favourite toy shop three years in a row and The Herald’s City and Waterfront award for best gift shop in 2015, all voted for by customers

“The savings club is also a great way of teaching children the value of money and budgeting, several of our younger customers have their own account”.

The Whoopee Facebook page where the latest deliveries and new lines get posted and discussed throughout the day has a great following and is full of up to date news and information. Here are just a few of the customer reviews posted on the page “Great range of toys from retro right through to modern up to date toys but more evidently noticeable is how they can’t do enough to help …. nothing is too much trouble, a rare and pleasant experience these days.”

The new regulations come into force on April 6 and require all dog owners to have their dog microchipped so that specific information about the dog and owner can be stored on a database. This is in addition to the requirement for dogs to wear a collar and tag, showing the owners details.

Whoopee stock ranges such as Sylvanian Families, Hama beads, Schleich and Papo figurines year round in greater depth than most other toy shops.

Customer service and product knowledge is core to the Whoopee experience.

Marcia said: “The savings club allows customers to reserve items or build up savings for birthdays and Christmas, a real helping hand in the run up to these important occasions

Dog owners in Plymouth are being urged to get their pets microchipped ahead of new legislation being introduced this month.

Whoopee! sells all the toys you would expect from the largest toy companies such as Lego Hasbro and Mattel but also specialists like The Puppet Company, Orchard games and Bigjigs toys.

What are their secrets to continued success? Offering something a little different to the national chains, a diverse range, great product knowledge and excellent customer service – as well as offering prices that are as good as the large retailers.

Whoopee make the most of social media to promote the business and have launched a highly popular savings club which has over 700 members.

Reminder to dog owners: ensure pets are microchipped

Plymouth City Council’s Environmental Protection team collect about 100 stray dogs a year, with about half of those being returned to their owner. Some are microchipped, which allows the officer to identify an owner quickly, but many details are not up to date.

“Other hot properties include Pop Vinyl figures, TY Beanies and “gateway” games such as Munchkin and the locally made Cornish Smuggler.

Alan and Marcia Collins of Whoopee!

“Saved with the Christmas Club last year for the 1st time. Best thing I did, made our Christmas much more affordable. Staff were really helpful including taking extra orders on the phone. Will definitely use again this year.”

“Whoopee is one of our favourite shops & the staff are not only helpful, but incredibly knowledgeable. Nothing is too much trouble.”

Not just a shop but an experience, Whoopee! offers an Aladdin’s Cave of traditional toys from the latest releases to the established best sellers at all price points from pocket money to that extra special gift.

Alan said: “It’s always great when I am walking towards the shop to see children excitedly pointing and telling their parents all about it and asking to go in to have a look around.”

Specialists for puppets, educational toys, puzzles and games including traditional favourites such as backgammon, chess and mahjong they supply many local schools and nurseries.

The regulations also prevent a dog from being transferred to a new keeper until it has been microchipped and any new owner of a dog is required to update the information on the database on the transfer of keeper/ownership.

The shop also offers a larger and more diverse range of adult and children’s jigsaw puzzles than any other shop in Plymouth.

“We have recently relocated our Jigsaw puzzle display within the shop and sales are definitely up,” said Marcia, “we are constantly refreshing the range from new and existing suppliers.”

Once the regulations are in place, council officers will have the powers to issue legal notices to pet owners whose dog is not microchipped.

Whoopee! are members of the Toymaster buying group which supplies around 350 independent retailers across the UK, ensuring that members offer the most competitive prices, check out their advert in this edition of The Shopper for their latest half price toy offers.

The council is also reminding dog owners whose pets are already microchipped this is a perfect opportunity to make sure their details are up to date.

For more information on stray dogs visit www. plymouth.gov.uk/straydogs

Whoopee! 74 Royal Parade, Plymouth, Tel 01752 225030, Facebook Whoopee-toys.

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The Plymouth Shopper

7

Council supports more than 2000 people into employment In the last two years more than 2,000 people have been helped back into work or an apprenticeship in Plymouth.

In June 2014 the City Council pledged to support 2,000 more people into work or an apprenticeship, and working through the award winning and successful 1000 Club this ambitious target has been reached.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “We have kept most, if not all of our 50 pledges that we made in 2014 but being able to sign this one off has made me the most happy.

“It was always going to be an ambitious target but through perseverance and hard work the city has excelled itself, demonstrating the real benefits of partnership and cooperative working. We are absolutely committed to making sure that we continue to invest in growth opportunities in this city which will in turn lead to jobs with real prospects for local people.”

The 1000 Club is a partnership-led initiative that acts as a broker and helps businesses and organisations offering work experience, apprenticeships or full and part-time work in the city. It was established in 2012 as a way of ensuring that businesses are able to navigate the often complex landscape surrounding recruitment. Since its launch over 1,500 businesses have signed up to be members enabling them to access the support that is available.

Since 2012 the member businesses have supported more than 6,000 people into a job, apprenticeship, work experience, work placement or graduate internship.

The 1000 Club offers its services free of charge and any business in the city is able to sign up to become a member of it. For more information please visit www.1000club.co.uk

New forum will help women return to work A forum designed especially to help women return to work has been officially launched by Plymouth City Council.

The forum was the council’s pledge to make sure that women had access to all the advice and support they would need to help them return to work after maternity or child care leave.

The support forum offers guidance on family friendly working policies and where to access all kinds of information needed when thinking about returning to work.

As part of the process of developing the forum, the council asked staff about their experiences during maternity leave and on returning to work.

Building on these responses the council have reviewed and rewritten many family related policies to make life easier and less stressful for new mums. The council now hope to encourage other employers in the city to follow suit and make their policy’s family friendly.

Zoe Anning, parking systems manager at Plymouth City Council said: “I was lucky during my pregnancy with twins that I worked with my manager to manage my work commitments and hospital appointments, but I know some people don’t always get this support.

“It’s good to hear that employers are listening to employees and adapting HR policies to make life easier and fairer. A forum like this with all the information in one place is a great idea for new mums as it can be daunting, especially as a new mum with twins, so any help can only be a good thing.”

The women returners forum is run as part of the city’s 1000 Club, which was established in 2012. The 1000 Club is a network of local businesses that are committed to supporting people into careers in the city.

For more details visit the forum www.1000club.co.uk/ Women-Returners.aspx 8

The Plymouth Shopper

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • continued from page 6 Coffee Morning and Book Stall Thursdays Crownhill Methodist Church hall from 10am to 11.30am.

Join us for a cup of tea or coffee, biscuit and a chat. All welcome. For details ring Carroll on Plymouth 960746.

Plympton Probus Club Second Monday of month Plympton Probus Club was formed in 1985, and enables retired and semi- retired men to meet a convivial group aged, 55 or over who meet on a regular basis. Would you consider joining us at the Plympton Library venue? We meet on the second Monday of each month at 10am, and provide opportunity to hear a variety of interesting speakers.

Additionally, social lunches with wives and guests are held at various venues throughout the year. Currently, vacancies exist for new members and anyone interested, should contact the secretary, Gerald Hendrick, on 01752 514942 Aden Veterans Calling all Aden Veterans. Did you know that the Aden Veterans Plymouth Branch meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at the RAOB Club in North Hill at 7.30pm. Why not go along and meet like-minded people.

Lipson Lions Junior Hockey Club Training every Wednesday 6pm until 7pm at Lipson Community College. Currently need players of all age groups and ability particularly girls. Age groups 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. First two visits are free. Go along and try it.

Details from Samantha on 0790 555 2318.

Pennycross Sequence Dance Club Meets at the Holy Family Church Hall, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth. Mondays 6.30pm beginners class with step by step instruction. 7.45pm sequence dance. Fridays at 7.30pm for sequence dance.

Whist Drive Tuesdays and Wendesdays Kings Tamerton Community Centre want adults of all ages to come and join us in a game of whist. Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons at 1.30pm start, also The first Sunday in every month at 2pm start. Entrance is £1.50,which includes tea, coffee,and biscuits. We are a friendly crowd and would like to see some new faces. City Bus No 16 stops right out side the community centre. Call Brenda on 206204 for more details.

Baby & Toddler Group Every Friday Lipson Vale Primary School between 9.15am and 10.30am.

New families welcome. Please call Kate Timothy or Elaine Bromhead on 01752 224801.

Plymouth Shakespeare Society Meets twice a month from September to May at the Burgess Hall (behind the Unitarian Church) Notte Street, Plymouth from 2.30 - 4.30 p.m. Everyone welcome. Further details call 257764.

Twins, Triplets or more Support group held on a Tuesday morning 10am-12pm at Surestart Children’s Centre, 25 Manor Street, Stonehouse, (Tel 208650) or a Friday morning 10am -12pm at Sir John Hunt School, Whitleigh. An informal group open to all mums and expectant mums. A great chance to meet other mums and dads in the same situation.

Mini Dance Machine Thursdays At Rees Youth Centre, Mudge Way, Plympton. Modern fun disco dance group for children. 4.15pm - 5pm for ages 4 to 6; 5pm - 6pm ages 6 to 10. £2 per session. Call Lisa 07896 105 479.

Waterfront Writers Fridays Meet every Friday during term time at The Swarthmore Education Centre, Mutley Plain 1pm to 3pm. Anyone who wishes to share or listen to poetry and prose is welcome. Visit www.waterfrontwriters.org.uk for details.

Friendly Luncheon Club Tuesdays & Fridays Tuesday 12.30pm & Fridays 1pm each week. For details and bookings call 01752 606317.

Tothill Daytime Sequence Dancers Wednesdays Tothill Daytime Sequence Dancers meet at the Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Judes, Plymouth Sequence Tea Dance 2pm to 4pm. Everyone welcome.

Portal Writers Tuesdays The Portal writers are a helpful group of writers who are dedicated to helping first time and have a go writer. Meet Tuesdays 10am to 12 noon at Southway Community Centre, Hendwell Close, Southway. Tea or coffee. Contact Gloria Lane on 01752772686.

Plymouth Dog Training Club meets at St Edward’s Church Hall, Eggbuckland on Wednesday evenings. For details call 01752 350788.

Family fun at Cotehele

If you’re looking for things to do with your children during the Easter holidays, hop on over to Cotehele, the National Trust house, garden and estate near Saltash.

Family activities are running until Sunday April 10.

“Easter is one of our favourite times of the year at Cotehele,” said visitor services and volunteer manager, Charmian Saunders.

“After the long wet winter, and now the daffodils are blooming and the robins are singing, there’s nothing more enjoyable than losing yourself in the garden and estate with family and friends.”

From Tuesday March 29

until Sunday April 10 between 11am and 4pm, there will be an alternative family trail in the woods starting from reception at the house and leading down to the mill.

The cost is £2 per trail and normal admission charges do not apply unless

vistiors want to visit inside the house, formal garden or mill. Dogs on leads are welcome.

The staff and volunteers at Cotehele Mill will be milling on Sundays and Thursdays; and will also be decked out in Victorian dress on Sundays.

The House is open every day 11am-4pm, with the mill, restaurants, shop and gallery open until 5pm and Cotehele’s garden and estate open daily from dawn to dusk. For details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/cotehele or ring 01579 531346.

Lunch Club Tuesdays and Fridays An invitation to lunch at Welcome Hall Centre, Fore Street, Devonport. 12.30pm Tuesdays, 1pm Fridays. Friendly company. For details or to make a lunch appointment call 606317.

Plymouth Skywatch Meet at St Budeaux Parish Church Hall every third Friday of the month at 7.30pm. The meeting usually consists of highlights of the night sky for the following month followed by a talk on an astronomy-related subject. There is a break in between with tea and coffee available.

Boxing Classes Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Carl’s boxing stable has opened a new gym in Colebrook training for all ages to compete or just get fit. 7pm to 8pm.

Details from Carl on 07837 920150.

Plymouth Croquet Club Hartley Park Reservoir, Mannamead Road. New members welcome. Equipment and tuition available. For further information contact Plymouth 666801.

Trinity Art Group Thursdays We are a small group of experienced artists who enjoy meeting and sharing our talents. We meet every week (ring for dates) at Trinity URC, Tor Lane, Hartley from 7pm to 9pm. If you are a beginner and would like to explore the enjoyable pastime of painting in watercolour or acrylics we could offer some assistance. We also welcome all levels of proficiency as our aim is to enjoy our time painting with time to socialise over a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit, all for £2.50 each night. Details Dave Crawford 01752 407047 Country Music Venue First Friday every other month At the Aggie ‘Opry’. Agaton Club, St Budeaux. Top country acts being booked. Details 01752 362240.

Plymouth Play Association For hire of resources for play, recycling scrapstore and arts and crafts. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday 10am-2pm, Thursday 10am-7pm. Details 01752 256633.

Karate Club Mondays For those aged 11 years and over at Trinity United Reform Church, Tor Lane, Hartley between 6pm and 7.15pm.

Details 07967 313285.

Monthly Soup lunch for all the community Last Wednesday of the month Lovely homemade soup, cake, tea & coffee all for £3 at the St Budeaux Church Community Hall, The Green, off Crownhill Road, Higher St Budeaux. from 12.15 - 2 p.m. A warm welcome awaits all those who come. Have a go at the quiz if you want, browse the jigsaw library or just enjoy the company.

Coffee mornings Last Wednesday of the month Run by the Highbury Trust Community Support Service, Outland Road between 10.30am and 12.30pm. All members of the public welcome to attend. For details 01752 753711 Community Activities Various dates Evening events at Keyham Community Sports Hall, Drake Primary School, Saltash Road. Monday: Karate classes suitable for children/families and adults. 5pm to 8pm; Tuesday: Keep fit classes. Making exercise fun and easy to do. 6.15pm to 7.15pm; Wednesday: Yoga classes.

Beginners/intermediate - first tester session free. 7pm to 8.30pm. The Community Sports Hall has spaces available for hire, for further information contact Roy Burt Sports Development Coordinator at the school on 01752 567649.

Keep Fit Classes Wednesdays Jackie Hamlin’s ladies keep fit class Wednesdays 10.15am - 11.15am or 6pm - 7pm at Hyde Park Social Club KFA registered, insured, low fees. Contact Jackie on 01752 672685. All proceeds to Alzheimer’s Society.

Plymouth Radio Club

Second Tuesday of every month.

The Plymouth Radio Club meets second Tuesday of every month at the Weston Mill Oak Villa social Club, Situated in Ferndale Road, Weston Mill, Plymouth. Commencing 7.30 pm.

For all licenced Radio Amateurs and anyone interested in amateur radio. For those wishing to obtain a licence, email pippa117@hotmail.co.uk or telephone 07815542477.

Tennis Club Mannamead Tennis Club, Eggbuckland Rd welcomes new members. 4 hard courts and 2 grass courts. Coaching available. Contact info@mannamead.org.uk or phone 773652.

Time Out Second and fourth Wednesday A group for individuals who are lonely and isolated. Come for a chat and make new friends. Plymstock United Church, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month, from 1.30pm 3.30pm. Refreshments £1. Contact Lin: 07818 254527.

Eddystone Model Flying Club Provide help and free instruction for flying radio control fixed wing. Members fly 24/7 weather permitting. New members are welcome as well as experienced fliers. For details visit www.eddystonemfc.net or phone Dave on 07941 040633 or Mike on 01752 403124.

The Plymouth Laryngectomy Club (PLC) The club aims to offer support and understanding to Laryngectomees, and their families and carers. We also extend this invitation to all Head & Neck Cancer sufferers.

Please get in touch and come and join us. Club Members usually meet up at 10.30 a.m. on the first Monday of each month. One month we meet at the Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre at Derriford Hospital and the following month we take a trip somewhere – anywhere! Please contact Geoff READ on (01752) 563 800 or email him on geoffnread@ gmail.com.

Buddhist meditation classes Weekday lunchtime meditations 12.15pm - 12.45pm, Wednesday evenings - Introduction to meditation class 7.30pm - 8.30pm, Thursday evenings - 7.30pm - 9.30pm Meditation - The Art Of Positive Thinking, Sunday mornings 11.30am - 12.30pm Find Inner Peace, Sunday mornings - Children’s classes - 10.30am - 11.15am. Held at Ashoka Kadampa Buddhist Centre, 33 Sutherland Road, Plymouth. Tel 01752 224137 www.meditationinplymouth.org

• continued on page 16

Former hostel to be converted into rent-to-buy flats The Ship Hostel building in Stonehouse, which has been empty since 2011 is to be converted into affordable flats, as part of a drive to bring empty homes back into use in Plymouth.

The building is being converted into 11 affordable rent-

to-buy flats by Octopus QSH, working in partnership with Plymouth City Council, and forms part of the council’s Plan for Empty Homes.

QSH is an affordable housing developer specialising in delivering homes with little or no government subsidy.

The equity investment in the scheme is the result of a joint venture with private finance house Harcourt Capital.

RAFA in Plymouth seeks new members

Since January 2015, the Plymouth City Council has helped bring 83 empty homes back into use including the former Job Centre in Hoegate Street as part of the objectives of the Plan for Empty Homes 2015-2019, which aims to bring 200 empty homes back into use by March 31 2019.

Plymouth’s Royal Air Forces Association is appealing for new members to join the branch after a disappointing turn out at the annual meeting.

Through Octopus QSH’s innovative ‘rent-to-buy’ scheme, tenants are able to save up to 10% of the purchase price and have the option to buy their properties within the first five years of living in their home with a deposit built up from the 50% rent paid over the five year period.

The current committee was re-elected at the meeting, but its members are now on the look out for ‘new blood’ to join and be part of the branch’s future.

Those who do not purchase during this time can continue renting their homes on a 20 year assured short hold tenancy.

Committee meetings are held at Raffles in Ermington Street, Mutley starting at 6.30pm and all members of RAFA are welcome to attend. Dates of forthcoming meetins are April 27, May 25, June 22, July 27, August 24, September 28, October 26, November 23 and December 14.

Councillor Chris Penberthy said: “I am really thrilled

A social event to celebrate St George’s Day is being held at Raffles on Saturday April 23 starting at 7.30pm. The evening will feature a cabaret with a Ruby Washington tribute act and basket meal.

Tickets are £15 and are available by contacting 07588 830230.

that Octopus QSH are going to be bringing the former Ship Hostel back into use. The rent to buy option offers people the flexibility to ultimately buy the property if they are in a position to do so.

“Another recent initiative we have introduced to tackle the blight of empty homes is our monthly ‘Empty Homes’ surgery at 1st Stop in New George Street - anyone can pop in and let us know about an empty building that they would like to see brought back into use.”

Kevin Hancock, construction director at Octopus QSH, said: “Receiving the green light to bring the former Ship Hostel building back into use is the result of hard work and dedication by all parties involved in this project, and is a testament to what can be achieved.

The former Ship Hostel in Stonehouse

“This latest scheme is a truly innovative and very different for affordable schemes, as the project will see the redevelopment and significant renovation of an old building back to its former glory – we look forward to getting started on site.”

People are invited to register their interest in the new apartments by contacting South Devon Rural Housing Association on 01803 847591 or by email: steve@ southdevonrural.com • The Empty Homes Surgery takes place a Plymouth City Council’s 1st Stop in New George Street on the first Wednesday of every month between 10am and 2pm.

Volunteers wanted for weight loss trials Plymouth University is looking for adults who would be willing to take part in a weight loss trial.

The trial is being funded by the National Institute for Health Research in collaboration with Plymouth University.

They want to hear from people aged 18 and over who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or more to take part in the trial which is called ‘Personalised Health Intervention for Weight Loss and Increasing Physical Activity.’

The study will last six months and will involve two therapeutic sessions with a researcher - one face to face at the university and one telephone session.

The remainder of the study will involve brief booster phone calls every two weeks to help keep participants

on track with their weight loss target.

On completion of the programme, participants will attend the university to be weighed and measured and receive a £15 bonus for taking part.

Anyone interested should contact Linda Solbrig on 07784 617079 or e-mail her at linda.solbrig@ plymouth.ac.uk

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River Cottage’s Matthew Norton pictured with Kelechi Nnoaham, Plymouth’s director of public health and staff and pupils at High View School

Pupils get smart about sugar Pupils at a Plymouth school have been learning about a new Change4Life campaign from Public Health England which encourages families to get Sugar Smart and take control of the amount of sugar they consume.

lesson plans, which are being provided to primary school teachers across the region, via the School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme, to highlight to children how much sugar is in everyday food and drink.

It follows revelations that four-to-10 year olds consume each year the average weight of a five-year-old in sugar, that’s 22kg or more than 5,500 sugar cubes.

A new Sugar Smart app has been launched to help parents see how much sugar there is in everyday food and drink.

Matthew Norton, head chef at River Cottage Canteen is supporting the campaign to encourage children to learn about the amount of sugar in everyday food and drinks.

He took part in a special lesson with pupils at High View School in Efford to show them some easy-to-prepare low sugar snacks.

The lesson complements the current ‘Food Detectives’ Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2

Five million Sugar Smart packs will be given away to primary age children and their families via schools, local authorities and retailers.

The free app works by scanning the barcode of products and revealing the amount of total sugar it contains in cubes and grams.

The Change4Life Sugar Smart campaign aims to warn both children and parents about the health harms from eating and drinking too much sugar. A fifth of four-to five-year-olds and a third of 10-to 11-year-olds are overweight or obese.

This means they are more likely to become

obese adults who are prone to a range of lifethreatening health problems, such as heart disease, some cancers and Type 2 diabetes.

There are now 2.5 million people suffering from Type 2 diabetes, 90% of whom are overweight or obese.

Kim Dorian-Kemp, headteacher at High View School said: “We’re delighted to welcome Matthew to High View School to engage the children on how to eat less sugar.

“We all know that children eat too much sugar so it’s great that this campaign offers helpful tips for parents on how to cut down.

“The new ‘Food Detectives’ lesson plans provide a great way of getting children thinking about how much sugar is in the every day food and drink we all consume.

“By teaching them about sugar consumption at a young age, we hope that they will get into good habits which will set them up for life.”

Group’s pledge for parity In recognition of International Women’s Day, Plymouth Women in Business Networking Group have called on their members and others to sign up to the Pledge for Parity campaign.

At their sell-out monthly lunchtime meeting at The Treasury Bar 120 women were asked to support the campaign which aims to accelerate the achievement of equality.

As part of the campaign everyone - men and women - can pledge to take a concrete step to help achieve gender parity more quickly, whether to help women and girls achieve their ambitions, call for gender-balanced leadership, respect and value difference, develop more inclusive and flexible cultures or root out workplace bias.

The World Economic Forum predicted in 2014 that it would take until 2095 to achieve global gender parity.

three accelerators, working independently and together, that can change the trajectory of women’s advancement.

Then one year later in 2015, they estimated that a slowdown in the already glacial pace of progress meant the gender gap wouldn’t close entirely until 2133.

These are making career opportunities more visible to women, speeding up culture change with progressive corporate policy, such as paternity leave and flexible working and building supportive environments and work to

The Pledge for Parity Campaign has identified

eliminate conscious and unconscious bias.

Organisers of Plymouth Women in Business Networking Group say they hope their network and the actions of their members will contribute to helping to make this happen.

For more information or to sign the pledge visit www.internationalwomensday.com/ PledgeForParityCampaign

Making a material difference to recycling

Five clothing banks will be installed in Plymouth at locations across the city as part of a push to reuse and recycle unwanted textiles.

JMP Wilcox will be installing the banks so that people can drop off old clothing shoes and even bedlinen and curtains so that they can get a second lease of life. However, items like duvets and pillows are not suitable in these recycling banks.

The company is the largest textile reclaimers in the country and specialise in recovering 10

The Plymouth Shopper

donated clothes and other textiles for reuse and recycling.

The better quality items are marketed as preloved and retro items and resold in the UK and Europe, while a large percentage is sent to less fortunate people in developing countries.

Cabinet Member for Street Scene Councillor Brian Vincent said: “We’ve been looking at ways to encourage people to think about reusing and recycling and know that some decent and reusable clothing ends up in our brown bins.

“These banks are not just for old clothes, but

can take other items – provided they are in a reasonable condition and are clean – such as bed linen, curtains, and blankets.”

The banks can also take shoes with pairs tied together and under wear (providing items are clean, of course).

The banks have been put in at the following locations: Plymstock Broadway Morice Street Devonport George Park and Ride Southway Shopping Centre Car Park Windmill Pub Car Park Leigham

Homes and jobs for Honicknowle NEW HOTPOINT New homes, jobs and training and a natural play area are among the plans for a derelict former school site in Honicknowle Thanks to a partnership between Plymouth City Council and Spectrum Housing Group, plans are well underway for the development in Chaucer Way.‚ As well as 137 new homes, £312,000 is being invested in a number of projects to benefit the community including: £120,000 to improve playing pitches for children; £66,000 to improve adult playing pitches; £47,000 for a new green playing area and £40,000 for a new road crossing Mary Miller and Craig Francis from Spectrum Housing Group, Councillor Pete Smith, Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, and Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Co-operatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, said: “This will be a fantastic scheme for this part of

All change at Pennycross School Plans for major improvement works worth over two and a half million pounds have been drawn up for Pennycross Primary School to create much-needed space for growing pupil numbers.

The work will provide a new two-storey extension with eight new classrooms (four to each floor), stores, toilets, group rooms and a new hard play area. The newly expanded school is anticipated to be fully functional from September 2017.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “This area has seen so much investment in new and improved housing over the last few years but the schools haven’t expanded at the same rate. The school desperately needs extra space to accommodate its pupils and will really benefit from these new facilities.”

Head teacher at Pennycross, Carole Waziri said: “This extension will raise the profile of Pennycross within the community and will enable us to grow alongside the increasing community. We are very excited that this project is underway.”

Information day for Parkinson’s A Relaxation and Information Day for younger people who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s is being held in April.

Organised by the Plymouth and East Caradon Younger Onset Parkinson’s Group, the event takes place at Callington Town Hall from 9.30am to 1pm.

Supported by Callington Lions Club, the event is for people of working age, living in the Plymouth and East Caradon areas who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

In addition to information on services and technology available to younger people with this progressive neurological disorder, there will be individual ‘taster’ sessions of relaxing therapies, such as Shiatsu and Reflexology. ‘Bella the Therapy Dog’ will also attend the event.

Pictured left to right, Councillor Tudor Evans Leader of the council, Carol Noden Chair of Governors, Ian Baker strategic investment and capital manager and Carole Waziri, headteacher

New loos at Devil’s Point New toilets have been opened on Plymouth’s waterfront as part of a programme to replace or refurbish facilities.

Refurbished toilets at Devil’s Point have been reopened – just in time for the Easter holidays – following the demolition of a rather dated block, believed to have been built in 1960s.

The uninviting concrete block has gone and in its place are new modern toilets, similar to the facilities that have been installed on the Barbican. There are two unisex cubicles with mother and baby changing facilities.

There is also a toilet for people with disabilities and a shower so that people using the beach and seawater pool at Firestone Bay can rinse off after bathing.

The council teamed up with the Stonehouse Lawn Tennis Club who will be using a room at the rear of the building. As part of the lease conditions, the club will make their facilities available to

the local community. With more people using the revamped toilets, it is hoped the toilets will be less of a target for anti-social behaviour.

On the other side of Stonehouse Creek, a new unisex toilet with mother and baby and disabled facilities will also open at Richmond Walk, near the public slipway behind the Mayflower Marina and overlooking the River Tamar.

The project team consulted with the Plymouth Area Disability Action Network to make sure that the facilities were as disabled friendly as possible.

The cubicles are wider and signage has been designed to be easier to read for those with visual problems.

Contractors TEC Construction have been demolishing and replacing facilities near the local shopping centres at Southway, Whitleigh and Crownhill.

The replacement and refurbishment project costs £436,600 and is funded through the council’s capital programme.

Karen Rose, chair of the Plymouth and East Caradon group said: “Parkinson’s is often thought of as a condition of much older people. Whilst this is often the case, many people in their thirties and forties, even people in their twenties are diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

Linda Bonnin, director of development for Spectrum Housing Group, said: “We are delighted to once again be working with Plymouth City Council. The support of officers and members throughout the planning process has been invaluable in securing a scheme that will deliver a range of much needed new housing which will benefit the local community for years to come.

National award for Plymouth parking team Plymouth City Council’s parking team has won a national award for its work in supporting the local community.

The team has beaten off competition from across the country to win the Inspiration Award in this year’s British Parking Awards, organised by Parking Review magazine.

The awards, now in their 15th year, showcase excellence in the design of parking facilities, exceptional customer service and innovative thinking Over the last 12 months the 60 members of the team – who manage the city’s parking zones, parking enforcement and car parks – have made it their mission to make a difference to others, especially those who are less fortunate.

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They’ve raised hundreds of pounds for charity and been involved in a host of projects and initiatives supporting the community, including: • Job coaching and placements through Shekinah, helping exoffenders find work • Mentoring for the long-term unemployed through Jobcentre Plus, which has led to two people being offered apprenticeships with the council

263 Beacon Park Rd, Plymouth 01752 787600 28 Pomphett Rd, Plymstock 01752 492122 15 Stuart Rd, Pennycomequick 01752 222003 15 Fore Street, Totnes 01803 863448 15 Fore Street, Kingsbridge 01548 853116

• Supporting apprentices and helping seven gain an NVQ in Business Administration • Offering work experience placements through the Prince’s Trust

“The sooner people receive a diagnosis, the sooner they can access the mutual support of similar aged people with Parkinson’s and tap into a wealth of knowledge and experience on ways of managing the condition, specific exercises to maintain mobility, technological aids and services available.

“We are also lucky to have Parkinson’s Support Workers in Plymouth and Cornwall, from Parkinson’s UK.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance for Plymouth City Council who launched Plan For Homes in 2013, said: “We are thrilled to work with Spectrum on this new community. This development will also include four self-build plots for people interested in building their own home, space for leisure activities in the local area, 51 affordable homes for rent and sale, and brings with it hundreds of job and training opportunities in the construction industry.”

For more information, email housingdelivery@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 304146.

Architects Stride Treglown have now been appointed to work with the school and the Council to put together the designs. The improvements are needed to cope with an increase in birth rates and the new housing developments in the area.

Plymouth City Council is investing £2.786m from the capital investment programme which includes £646,601from section 106 funding which has been generated by housing developments in the area.

Plymouth and we look forward to seeing homes for hundreds of local people and enhanced facilities for everyone who lives locally to be able to use.”

• Being trained as Dementia Friends, delivering training to other staff and introducing Dementia Friendly bays in car parks Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Street Scene The Plymouth Shopper

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Property deal kickstarts regeneration of West End Plymouth’s West End is set for a dramatic makeover after the City Council revealed that it is planning to acquire nearly a dozen properties around Colin Campbell Court.

The council is in discussions with the Homes & Communities Agency to provide funding to buy 11 properties, including the distinctive art deco block and a row of shops on Western Approach.

The council wants to acquire over four acres of land as part of its plans to transform Colin Campbell Court into a smart new shopping area with scores of new homes.

Cabinet Member for Finance and Assets Councillor Mark Lowry announced that the multi-million pound scheme would completely change the face of this part of the city.

He said: “Instead of a cluttered, scruffy car park overlooked by dated low-rise 1960s shops, Colin Campbell Court could become a desirable place to live as well as shop and enjoy.

“I am delighted to announce this important regeneration initiative. We are on a journey that will make a huge difference to the city and buying up the land for redevelopment is a crucial step along the way.

“Colin Campbell Court has long been recognised as a redevelopment opportunity

Architect’s impression of the Colin Campbell Court scheme

and we believe its transformation is essential to revive the West End. As the major landlord, the council is prepared to kick-start its regeneration as without public sector intervention, it would not happen.

“This scheme features more homes rather than just shops to encourage more people to live in the city and make it more lively and dynamic.

We are already in discussions with funders and partners and we are looking, in particular, at those able to support building starter homes, so that Generation Rent can get a foot on the housing ladder.”

The proposals are based on work carried out

Boulevard dream comes closer Buying land in Bath Street is a crucial step in the council’s long-held ambition of better linking the city centre to Millbay and the sea.

The council is in discussions with the Homes & Communities Agency to fund the acquisition of five properties in Bath Street to help progress the development along the boulevard which will deliver over 170 new homes as well as new shops, restaurants and studios.

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The Plymouth Shopper

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The first phase of the link between the Millbay and the city centre was completed last year. Called Brunel Way, it runs alongside the inner dock and was built as part of the Quadrant Quay development phase.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet member for Finance and Assets said: “By acquiring these sites, we are pushing along the regeneration of this area and creating this

important link to the city centre.

“It means we will be able to clear the land, demolish disused buildings, and prepare the site for redevelopment.”

Millbay has changed dramatically over the last few years. There are now blocks of quality homes overlooking the docks, a new school and shops and restaurants opening up. It is becoming a destination in its own right, but there is still more to do, he said.

He continued: “Passengers coming off the ferry are getting a very mixed impression of Plymouth at the moment. On the one hand, there are smart flats, a new and dynamic school and yachts in the marina, but then they have to drive through Bath Street, which does not sell the city at all.

“Everyone agrees it is pretty run down. We want more homes here and want to improve this location so that it fits with our aspirations for a cruise terminal as well as continuing to improve all the our neighbourhoods along the waterfront.”

by LDA Design who have been commissioned by the council to work on the City Centre Masterplan.

It sets out a mixed use redevelopment with over 300 homes around the Colin Campbell location, with 25 per cent of the homes to be starter homes. In addition there will be shops, cafes and studios and car parking as well as attractive public open space.

It is envisaged that the new development would include four to six storey buildings, whilst the current car park would be transformed into a court yard, shops, cafes with homes built above them and lanes breaking up the building blocks.

Roads around the new neighbourhood would be completely redesigned, with barriers removed, crossings simplified and enlarged and major reengineering of the junction between Western Approach and Union Street.

The underused footbridge across Western Approach would finally be taken down and the tired Frankfort Gate transformed with significant landscaping.

Housing developments have proved critical in the regeneration of other cities and other parts of Plymouth, said Councillor Lowry and added: “This is a great opportunity to revitalise the West End and provide connectivity through to Millbay by the continued development of the boulevard.

“While the land deals are agreed, this redevelopment is very much at early stages and we will be consulting with traders, residents and everyone with an interest in making this part of the city an amazing place to live, shop and work.”

The council is freeholder of the car park and the majority of properties already. It is the council’s intention that redevelopment of the site will include adequate parking for both traders and shoppers.

Spring clean to avoid pests As the days get longer and the weather gets better, now is an ideal time to spring clean your house and garden.

Sometimes, however, this may lead to the discovery of some unwanted guests. The most frequent calls received by Plymouth City Council Pest Control Service relate to mice, rats, wasps and fleas.

Mice are found in buildings because they are looking for food and good nesting sites, which can include lofts, cellars, and dark, quiet places like under the stairs and under the kitchen units.

They can build their nests out of cloth, paper and insulation. Signs of mice include droppings, gnawing marks and smear marks where they follow the same routes to look for food. Mice are good climbers and if you can get a pen into a hole, a mouse could squeeze through it too. So they can get to places that you may think are out of reach.

Rats could be living in your compost heap or under your shed or decking areas. They can

eat the food that you put out for the garden birds or the animals you keep as pets, e.g. rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, etc. Even if you put bird food on a bird table, rats are good climbers and have no problem accessing them. They also scavenge on food waste from rubbish and can get into your bins if they are not closed properly or have holes.

If you see lots of wasps or hornets in your home or garden, it is likely that there is a nest nearby.

This is because after hibernating through the winter a queen wasp will search for a sheltered place to build her nest, which may be in attics, wall cavities, sheds or in a sheltered spot in your garden. There may be thousands of individual wasps living in and around the nest.

Another pest to consider are fleas, which live on a host animal such as a cat, dog or person, biting them and sucking their blood. They are found living on pets, in carpets and on furniture. You may have noticed your pets scratching and so should use a veterinary approved treatment on your dogs and cats.

Finding pests in your home or garden can be unnerving and cause distress. You may not know what to do or where to turn for help. For all these pests and some more unusual ones, such as bedbugs and cockroaches, the council can locate the source of the problem and treat them using methods that ensure the safety of the public and minimise damage to the environment.

Pest Control Service can be contacted on 01752 304147 or e-mail pestcontrol@ plymouth.gov.uk.

Further advice can be found on the website www.plymouth.gov.uk/pestcontrol You can help prevent infestations of rodents and insects by carrying out basic home maintenance and keeping your garden tidy.

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Architect’s impression of Tavistock Place with the Plymouth History Centre on the right

‘Massive and exciting’ plan for new cultural heart of the city focused on £34 million Plymouth History Centre

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Plans for the £34 million Plymouth History Centre have been submitted for approval by city planners.

The History Centre plan includes proposals to create a pedestrianised cultural district in the heart of the city focused on Tavistock Place.

St Luke’s Church in Tavistock Place will be refurbished and extended to create a gallery capable of accommodating national exhibitions and events.

The plan includes major refurbishment and extension of the City Museum and Central Library to create exhibition and gallery space, storage for collections, offices and learning spaces.

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Ancillary buildings facing Tavistock Place will be demolished as part of the plan.

Architect’s impressions of the new building have given a dramatic insight to the way in which Tavistock Place will be transformed.

Plymouth City Council leader Tudor Evans said that the plans were ‘massive and really exciting.’

He said that the council had been successful in securing the funding for the History Centre, which is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.

“This plan is the start of something that begins to tell the story of Plymouth properly for the first time, the story of Plymouth Sound, the story of the Royal Navy, the 100 journeys that changed the world.

“All of these things came from Plymouth. We are going to create a

Spacious interior of the new History Centre

building that we are all proud of, to celebrate the history that we are all proud of.

“We are going to create a fantastic square in Tavistock Place with the history centre above and then there will be St Luke’s Church with a massive art gallery where we will be able to have exhibitions that you would normally have to travel to London to see.

“The history centre is as important culturally as building the Theatre Royal was 30 years ago, I am absolutely convinced of that.”

Comments on the planning application (ref 16/00393/FUL) must be submitted by April 5. It is expected that the proposals will be considered by the council’s Planning Committee in June.

South Yard Phase 1 contractor appointed A contractor has been appointed by Plymouth City Council to design and build the first phase of employment development at Devonport’s South Yard.

Following a procurement exercise, Midas Construction, part of the Midas Group, has been awarded the pre-contract agreement for Phase 1 direct development at the yard that will include new offices and industrial units at the gateway to the site.

It came in the week a demolition team is at the site to knock down redundant buildings in preparation for the yard’s new role at the heart of the Plymouth

01752 546222

UNIT 1 & 2 Drake Mill Business Park Estover, Plymouth, PL6 7PS www.plymouthmobilitycentre.co.uk

D ED OO ST G OF red e st gi re

He added: “We are working with nationally renowned architects and the building design they have come up is going to be spectacular and will transform that part of the city. It will change it beyond recognition.

PLYMOUTH MOBILITY CENTRE

and South West Peninsula City Deal.

The Ministry of Defence and Babcock are working closely with Plymouth City Council and the City Deal delivery team to transform the naval yard into a thriving Marine Industries Production Campus.

Two buildings, which were once offices and a health centre, will be levelled by MOD contractors to pave the way for the new campus, which forms a key aspect of the City Deal, which aims to boost growth and productivity and create thousands of jobs across the region’s marine and advanced manufacturing sectors.

South Yard is a 7.46 hectare site and

under the City Deal will become a hub for marine companies, providing workshops for engineering and manufacturing and potentially laboratory space for research. South Yard has been servicing the needs of the Royal Navy since 1690 and a lot of work needs to be done to redevelop the site – from surveying the historic buildings within the yard, separating and replacing services such as electricity and water within the site, re-engineering the layout as well as preparing the site for new facilities and building them.

The site will have up to 25,000m2 of flexible employment space with deep water docks and jetties suitable for the marine and advanced manufacturing sectors.

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13

MONEY MA££ERS with Steve Carey

Benefits of multi-agency approach with clients Advice Plymouth is the charity partnership of Age UK Plymouth, Routeways, Plymouth Guild and Citizens Advice Plymouth.

The four charities work independently and in collaboration to achieve the best results for clients. Each charity has different qualities and expertise that benefit the people of Plymouth and offers the best support and advice available.

Hazel Wilson* experienced our multi agency approach when she contacted Advice Plymouth for help. Hazel initially approached Plymouth Guild regarding her transfer from Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Plymouth Guild referred Hazel to Age UK Plymouth as she was over 50 years old and they recognised Age UK could assist Hazel further.

Hazel had severe mobility problems and care needs. Age UK Plymouth met with Hazel and discovered she had already attempted to complete the form.

However upon Hazel presenting the form, it was clear there was a lot of important information she had neglected to include.

Age UK Plymouth assisted Hazel in completing the form and as a result she has recently been awarded PIP with Mobility Enhanced and Care Enhanced

Tax changes - it could be you!

By Anna Salisbury of Advice Plymouth rate from 09/03/2016 - 24/01/2020.

As well as working collaboratively with our own partners we regularly contact other organisations to get the best results for our clients.

One client received support from an advisor at Citizens Advice Plymouth, who worked with Shelter, National Debtline, the Private Rented Team and Council Tax at Plymouth City Council to attempt to resolve the problem. Advice Plymouth will always use our multi-agency approach to get the best result for our clients. * Client’s name changed to preserve anonymity If you think you would benefit from contacting Advice Plymouth there are many ways you can get in touch and we encourage you to do so if you are facing a problem.

Contact us for information and advice.

Spread the word about the vital services we offer.

Tel: 03444 111 444: Mon, Wed, Fri 9am - 6.30pm. Tues, Thurs 9am - 8pm. Sat 9am - 1pm Drop-In: Ernest English House Buckwell Street, PL1 2DA: Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri 9am - 5pm

I don’t normally focus on tax when writing these articles, but there has been a huge amount of coverage about tax issues recently, and many commentators are saying that taxpayers cannot find accurate advice on how they might be affected.

In this short piece, I am going to flag up some of the changes taking effect in April 2016, so everyone is aware of the impact. If it doesn’t affect you, it may affect someone you know, so pass it on!

Taxation of savings income There was a time when people had savings, and those savings generated interest. Since the credit crunch, it has been very difficult to find a savings account paying a decent rate of interest. However, the Chancellor believes that some people still receive interest, so he has shaken up the way that it is taxed.

Starting from April 2016, banks and building societies will no longer deduct tax at source.

In the past, you had to fill out a form and apply for ‘gross payment’. Now, everyone will get their interest gross. However, that means you may have to declare that income to HMRC, and pay tax direct.

HMRC have said that the tax can be collected through your PAYE code, but that assumes: • You have a job that earns you enough to pay tax • They can estimate with a large degree of accuracy how much you will earn in interest during that year.

This is fraught with difficulty, as the sale of a property, receipt of an inheritance, or a rise in general savings rates could lead to an under collection of tax.

On the other hand, giving away some of your savings, or investing them in another way, could mean you overpay tax during the year, and have to claim it back after the year end.

Either way, we recommend you check carefully every notice of coding you receive from HMRC, as they do not get it right 100% of the time! When asked recently what would happen if HMRC made a mistake, the spokesperson replied: “It is the taxpayer’s responsibility to make sure they pay the correct amount of tax.”

So guess who will pay for any mistakes!

There is some good news, in that a basic rate taxpayer will not pay tax on the first £1,000 of savings income received in a tax year. (This is in addition to any income from an ISA which remains fully tax free).

However, if you are a higher rate taxpayer you will only get £500 tax free, and if you pay tax at 45% on any of your income, there is no allowance.

Taxation of dividend income Many people, especially retired folk, rely on their savings to generate income to live on. In many cases, this income comes from dividends on the shares they own.

From April 6 2016, there will be no tax on the first £5,000 of dividend income received in a year. However, tax will be levied at 7.5%, 32.5% or 38.1% on any dividends in excess of this.

This has been introduced as a way to tackle

a widely used tax avoidance structure, but will affect all taxpayers in receipt of dividends.

In a further complication, any dividends within the allowance ‘uses up’ part of the basic rate band, so you may end up paying more tax on other income.

An apology, and an offer I am sorry for ‘taxing’ your brains this month, but the changes are likely to affect so many, that I felt it appropriate to climb on one of my hobby horses this month, and warn you all of what’s about to happen.

‘If you’d like some help in understanding these changes, please get it touch via our online enquiry form at http://numbersukltd. com/’ Steve Carey, Numbers UK Ltd Telephone 01752 226084 www.numbersukltd.com

Language is more than communication Have you overheard a child ‘code switching’ this is when a child uses words from two languages within the same sentence? A French-English child, for example, could easily produce ‘Give me my nounours!’ to refer to her teddy bear, or ‘Pas open it’ to say ‘Don’t open it!’

This ability to swap between their two languages can be disconcerting for parents, who might assume their children are confused. However, code switching is normal in bilingual children, and shows that children develop connections between both languages.

At the Plymouth University Babylab, we are interested to find out if bilinguals learn words differently to monolingual toddlers and how they separate and integrate both languages. One of our current studies involves 22-27-month-olds listening to sentences such as ‘Yesterday I saw a spoon’ and looking at two pictures on a TV screen, for example a bowl and a bed.

Sometimes the word spoken in the sentence is associated to one of the pictures presented: in the example, spoon and bowl are related objects. Sometimes the spoken word is not related to the pictures on the screen (‘Yesterday I saw a car’ and then a bowl and a bed are presented). After hearing the sentence, we are interested to see if bilingual children will look longer at the related pictures than the unrelated ones compared to same 14

By Charlotte Stone of Plymouth Babylab age monolingual children. Ultimately, this research will help to design language evaluation tools for bilingual children, who are notoriously very difficult to assess due to their different trajectories than monolinguals.

We have recently set up a new eye-tracker lab to monitor the movements of children’s eyes for this study, in addition to our usual TV/camera set up in the Babylab. We are excited to be using the new technology and we would love you and your young child to visit the Babylab to take part! We are looking for children aged 22-27 months, monolingual or bilingual, and we would love to see more local bilingual children who learn Cantonese, Mandarin, Dutch, German, French, Spanish, Italian or Polish.

By taking part not only do you help us with our research but also your child will receive a small gift, (such as a Babylab t-shirt, a yo-yo, a beach ball or a plastic mug) a Babylab scientist certificate and a balloon!

On a different project, the UK Bilingual Toddlers, we are assessing 24-month-olds’ English vocabulary. This is a series of questionnaires to be completed online in your own time, ending with a ten-minute phone call including questions about the amount of time your child is exposed to their two languages. The results so far

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show that toddlers who spend at least 60% of their time being exposed to English have an English vocabulary score equivalent to that of monolingual English children. We would be pleased to see more bilingual toddlers to take part, especially those learning English with Portuguese,

Mandarin, Cantonese or Bengali.

visit www.plymouthbabylab.org.

More generally, Plymouth Babylab is interested in how all children develop, so if you have a child aged 0 to 6 years and you would like to contribute to research, please contact the BABYLAB on 01752 584865 or

If you would like to take part in studies in psychology as an adult, please contact the PSYLAB on 01752 584853 or visit www.plymouthpsylab.org

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15

• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 8 Laira Youth Brass Band Thursdays The City’s premier youth brass band meets at Woodford Methodist Church (next to the school) on Thursdays from 7.15 to 8.45 pm. Open to all youngsters from age eight upwards. Contact Tony Hollick on 01752 216784 for details.

Plymouth Numismatic Society Third Tuesday each month 7:30pm Coin collection and study can be an absorbing and rewarding pastime. New members are welcomed to informal meetings to share interest and knowledge of coins, providing the opportunity to give talks and presentations on any aspect of numismatics. This can range from studies of coins in historical, cultural or artistic context, to acquisitions, valuations and investment. Or members can just listen, learn and enjoy the company. Contact Bryan on 01752 480394 for more details and current location of meetings.

Plym Ramblers First and third Sunday in the month A well established walking organisation offering regular walks by experienced leaders all within 20 miles of Plymouth.

The group meets every first and third Sunday in the month and also hold interesting social events. For details contact the secretary on 344048 or the chairman on 405132. Plym Ramblers have now published their walking book “On the beaten track 3” The 3rd book in a popular series of local walks.

Plymouth Inter Varsity Club We are looking for lively, interesting people who want variety in their social lives and would like to mix with others in a friendly, local social group run by its members, for its members. We enjoy a wide range of activities eg meals out, cycling, themed party nights, walking, canoeing, theatre, reading group and weekends away. Want to know more?

You can go to our website www.plymouthivc.org , look at what we do and complete an enquiry or contact us direct on 07542 125575.

Second-hand book stall Every second Saturday in the month 2pm-3.30 pm, at Plymouth Unitarian Church, Notte Street.

In aid of The Motor Neurone Disease Association Celtic Music with a Twist Every First Thursday Kitty O’Hanlon’s, 9pm. Three Strand Minstrels play lively Celtic acoustic music at Kitty O’Hanlon’s.

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust Elfordleigh Your local sanctuary for most types of unwanted domestic pets. Good homes always needed - have a look at lovely animals, and what we do on www.woodsidesanctuary.org.uk.

We don’t destroy any animal unless it’s beyond veterinary help or dangerous and we have special units for elderly residents. Please don’t allow your pet to breed, ask us for friendly advice, or about our spay and neuter scheme for owners on benefit instead. Tel 01752 347503.

Clog dancing Thursdays A fun way to exercise! The Plymouth Maids clog dancers are a small, friendly group of women who welcome new members. From the beginning of October to the end of April we practice at St Bartholomew’s Church Hall, opposite the Life Centre, on Thursdays 8 - 9.45pm. During the summer we dance out on Thursday evenings at various pubs and other venues in and around Plymouth. We also dance at occasional folk festivals and days of dance. No previous dance experience is needed, just a sense of rhythm. Come along and give it a try. For details contact Shirley on 01752 407676.

Pennycross Friendship Group Thursdays The group meet every Thursday at 2pm in the Pennycross Methodist Church, Pridham Lane off Beauchamp Road, Peverell. Interesting speakers and outings. New members always welcome. For details 01752 362099.

The Boys Brigade Various dates For more information visit www.plymouth.boys-brigade. org.uk. 1st Plymouth - Salisbury Road Baptist Church (Fridays); 2nd Plymouth - Ridgeway Methodist Church (Mondays); 4th Plymouth - St Jude’s Church Halls (Wednesdays); 5th Plymouth - Mount Gould Methodist Church (Fridays); 7th Plymouth - Pennycross Methodist Church (Fridays); 8th Plymouth - Ford Baptist Church (Wednesdays). New members welcome. Age groups: Anchor Boys (5 to 7); Juniors (8-11) and Company Section (12-18). The Boys Brigade can help your church in its mission to children and young people. Contact the development team at plymouth.battalion@tiscali.co.uk or call 01579 346218.

5th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls Association We meet at Mount Gould Methodist Church, term time, and are looking to recruit both boys and girls aged 5-8yrs (6pm-7pm), 8-11yrs (6.30-8pm) and 11-18yrs (6.30-9pm).

Our programme is very varied and includes craftwork, 16

The Plymouth Shopper

Men’s Day Out is a fund-raising winner Men across the city turned out in force to ensure another 60 people in Devon receive care at home.

St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth male only fundraising event Mens Day Out took place on Saturday with over 700 men taking part in a 12km charity walk, raising an estimated £60,000 – enough to provide care for 60 people at home. (£1,000 average cost per patient at home) The event powered by IU Energy, was hosted once again for the third year at Plymouth Albion RFC as a army of men walked proud through Plymouth city centre, the Barbican and Hoe. It wasn’t all ‘work no play’ for these keen fundraisers as their return visit to the club was welcomed with scrum-ptious Pilgrim pasty and pint before settling down to watch Albion battle against Blackheath.

It’s the second year for Damien and Ryan Huxtable, who describe the event as ‘electric’. The Brixton brothers went on to explain the core reason why it is so important to show their support “We are walking in memory of both our Dad, Roger and Grandad William who were both looked after by St Luke’s. We can’t praise them enough for the care and support they gave our family. You can’t help but notice the messages on the t-shirts, they really bring the reality of the work they do and the people they have helped home. Today brings back good memories and is a great way to reflect.”

Fancy dress was a popular theme of the day. Raising over £250 and dressed as Sonic the Hedgehog, Leon Franklin was walking in memory of Father David. “He was cared for at home. St Luke’s made my Father feel more comfortable and helped us a family come to terms with his inevitable passing. To have that support network was unbelievable.” cookery, games, computer work, interactive challenges, sports competitions, sponsored fundraising and much more plus the year ending event - summer camp(8yrs+). Many of the skills learnt here can help prepare them for adult life.

Interested - then come along to the church on Friday or contact Hugh Porter, 01752 667513, or email porterbb@ blueyonder.co.uk for further information 7th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association Fridays We meet at Pennycross Methodist Church in term time, Anchors (5-8 years) between 6.15pm and 7.15pm; Juniors (8-11 years) from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and Seniors (12-18 years) between 7pm and 9.45pm. There is a full programme of activities including crafts, games, drama, music, cookery, interactive challenges, national sport competitions and much more. The year culminates in a week-long summer camp. Our programme enables youngsters to learn many various skills and prepares them for adult life. Simply go along on Fridays to find out more or visit http//:7plymouth. boys-brigade.org.uk Mini Matts Parents & Toddler Group Mondays St Matthias Church Hall on the corner of Clifton Street & Bedford Park. 1.30pm to 3pm £1 per family per session. (during term time).

Plymouth Cycling Touring Club Meet Sundays for a leisure cycle ride. For our latest rides list and meet time/place see www.plymouthctc.co.uk or contact Graham Black 01752 606650 or Andy Prideaux 01752 345170 for more information.

Plymouth West Country Embroiderers Various dates Started in 1972. A friendly group of enthusiastic needleworkers who enjoy sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. Trainees (age 8-15) meet first Saturday each month from 11am to 3pm. Adults meet on second Thursday and fourth Saturday each month from 10.30am. We welcome experts and beginners of all ages.

Contact Mary 01752 200047 for details.

Plymouth Philatelic Society First Wednesday of every month St. Edwards Hall, Home Park Avenue, Peverell from 7pm to 9pm. For details contact Derek on 01752 360551 or David on 01752 402981.

Sequenced Dance Saturdays St Gabriels Church Hall, Hyde Park 7.30pm to 10pm Modern Sequence Dancing Tuesdays and Wednesdays Sequence dancing for all. Further details 01752 493311.

Plymouth Marjon Hockey Club Hockey for all ages and abilities from age 5 through to 60+ with weekly coaching and regular matches based at the University of St Mark & St John. Tuesdays & Thursdays 5-6pm age 7-11 boys and girls. Girls age 10+ and senior

Reverend Alen McCulloch has seen first-hand the difference his walk will make. “When I visit families who have been sadly bereaved, I learn about the person.

Regularly I am told by the family they were helped by St Luke’s. It does mean a lot to the person who is sadly near the end of their life to be able to be at home, but also to the family. This has certainly anchored St Luke’s in my mind. It is a terribly important service of care that is provided to a huge number of people each year.”

Men’s Day Out veterans, Barrington Soden from Milehouse and David Griffiths from Elburton are now on their third year taking part. “It’s a great cause and I believe in the work they do. You never know I may need to use them one day and I like to put something back.”

Rob Hugh from Barne Barton took part with a groups of friends. He was walking in memory of his Dad who was cared by St Luke’s last November.

“He was a wonderful man and sadly he passed away from Cancer. St Luke’s did such a fantastic day and that is why we are here today. St Luke’s were there every step of the way for both Dad and our family from when he was diagnosed.

“I feel walking today is giving something back to the charity for the wonderful work they do, so they can continue their work and help other people like Dad.” Senior events Fundraiser at St Luke’s, Emma Winter said: “Another fantastic day, everybody was in such good spirit. Men you have done our charity proud, your money will make a difference and we can’t thank you enough.

“I must also say a massive thank you to the army of volunteers who without them we could not put on an event like this; the support of local businesses IU Energy and Pilgrim Pasties and also Plymouth Albion for been the perfect hosts.”

ladies Tuesday evening. Men’s Club training Wednesday 7.15-9pm. Boys age 10+ and senior men Thursday evening.

Sunday mornings boys and girls aged 5 to 14 years. For more information visit www.pmhc.co.uk

Keep Fit Classes Wednesdays 10.15am - 11.15am and 6pm - 7pm Hyde Park Social Club.

KFA registered, insured, low fees.Details 01752 672685.

The Plymouth and District Advanced Motorists Group Monthly meetings on the third Monday of each month at the United Reformed Church Hall, Powisland Drive, Derriford.

The meeting begins at 7.30p.m. with doors opening at seven. Guest speaker each month. Details 01752 405926

Parent & Babies and Toddler Group Tuesdays and Fridays Come and join us, meet new friends during term time at Crownhill Methodist Church Hall, 10am- 11.30am. Booking recommended as places are limited. Call Anne 07791332503.

The Rainbow Experience First Tuesday of each month Social/Support group for older lesbian,gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people (50ish and over) living in and around Plymouth. Meet at Plymouth Arts Centre, Looe Street, Plymouth, (near Bretonside bus station) at 2.30 pm on the first Tuesday of the month. It provides a safe, non judgemental and encouraging atmosphere for LGBT people to meet and share experiences. For more information contact David on 07722 019423.

Weekly Bingo Thursdays Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Jude’s 7pm.

Entrance £1. Tea and biscuits 20p. Draw tickets on sale.

Mums and Babies Tuesdays Mums and Babies is a support group for mums with babies from birth to eight months old. Come and meet other new mums and enjoy being spoilt by our sympathetic leaders with tea, coffee, biscuits and a listening ear. £2 a session.

We meet at Hope Baptist Church Hall, Peverell Corner, Plymouth from 1pm to 2.30pm. For more information ring the church office on 01752 708090.

Drake Probus Club Third Tuesday each month Are you a retired professional or businessman? If so we have a number of vacancies for membership. We invite you to come along to a meeting of the club at the Royal British Legion Club Tailyour Road, Crownhill. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 9.30am for 10am.Our programme includes guest speakers at each of our monthly meetings. Other club activities, where wives and partners are very welcome, happen regularly, include monthly pub lunches and outings to places of interest during the summer months. Just come along. For further details please contact Jim Gettings on 661450 or Richard Hill on 318704.

Al-Anon Family Groups Are you concerned about someone’s drinking?

A fellowship to help families and friends of alcoholics. Local meetings. Confidential Helpline 020 7403 088 www.al-anonuk.org.uk Rainbows Fridays 1st Devonport Rainbows, Salvation Army, Haddington Road, Stoke Every Friday 6- 7pm Call 01752 405027 for details.

Exercise Classes for over 60s Wednesdays Keyham Methodist Community Hall 10.15am-11.15am Exercise classes for the over 60`s and registered disabled.

Gentle exercises to music aimed at improving your core muscles and balance. Followed by a cuppa and time to chat and make new friends. For details call Bridget on 408951.

Toddler Group Thursdays Plymouth Christian Centre 9.30am to 11 am, term time only £1.50 per family. Contact Liz Crudgington on 661019 for details or see the www.plymouthchristiancentre.org Ballroom & Social Sequence Dancing Various dates Plymstock Community Centre every Tuesday afternoon 2pm until 4pm and every third Monday of the month from 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Details 01752 251313 or 01752 668017.

Club Focus Camera Club Mondays Meets at the Future Inn, William Prance Road, Plymouth.

Meets every Monday from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Membership Secretary 01752 231139 Website www.clubfocusplymouth.co.uk Plymouth Woodturners Third Friday of the month Meet at Pilgrim Church, St Levan Road at 7.30pm. Also demonstrate and sell at Otter Nurseries, Brixton, the first weekend of every month. New members always welcome, just turn up on the night.

Plymouth Striders Running Club Twice weekly Meet at Widewell School, Lulworth Drive, Widewell (behind The George at Roborough). Mondays and Thursdays 6.30pm. Over 16 years and all abilities welcome. For info contact widewellstriders@yahoo.com or check out our website www.widewellstriders.co.uk Watercolour Group Every Friday 10am to 12 noon at Onward House, 55 Greenbank Road, Plymouth. To join this friendly group just come along or ring the group leader Ray on 01 752 300633 for more information.

• continued on page 18

American Pilgrims in Plymouth The sun shone on Plymouth to welcome a delegation of eleven American ‘Pilgrims’ from Plymouth, Massachusetts, as the city gears up for Mayflower 400 in 2020.

The whistle-stop tour included a civic ceremony, church leaders’ meetings, an inter-denominational church celebration and, of course, a tour of the Barbican and Mayflower Steps.

The group of four adults and seven young people was led by Dr Paul Jehle, an historian and church Pastor from Plymouth, Massachusetts, who is chair of the faith committee for Plymouth 400 in the US. “We’re marking something far broader than just the Pilgrims,” said Dr Jehle. “American liberty is the child of

Photos by Hannah Cochrane English liberty. This is a providential story linking the UK and the USA.” The official visit began with a reception at the Lord Mayor’s Parlour in Elliot Terrace (former home of Nancy Astor) on Saturday morning.

The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Dr John Mahony, said: “We are delighted to welcome our friends from America to Plymouth.

“The Mayflower pilgrimage is such an important part of Plymouth’s history and as we get closer to the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage we are very pleased to be able to celebrate these historic links in this way.”

Dr Paul Jehle, dressed in authentic Pilgrim costume, presented the Lord Mayor with a signed copy of William Bradford’s ‘Of Plymouth Plantation’, which is widely regarded as the most authoritative account of the Pilgrims and the early years of the Colony they founded.

Jonathan deMacedo, aged 17, son of US Senator Vinny deMacedo, presented the chief executive of Destination Plymouth Amanda Lumley with a copy of ‘Mourt’s Relation’, a journal of the Pilgrims describing the first year’s events for the ‘adventurers and settlers’ who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620.

The Americans were keen to walk where their ancestors did on the Barbican and at the Mayflower Steps, and they were joined by Plymouth Pilgrim David Saunders.

Seagulls and day-trippers alike were fascinated by their costumes, with the latter asking them many questions.

Next on the itinerary was a key meeting with church leaders in the historic Prysten House, where the American team heard how the Pilgrims had been welcomed by the congregation of St Andrew’s church in 1620. They discussed plans for the churches to contribute creatively into Mayflower 400.

Paul was encouraged by the churches’ involvement: “I’ve met with church leaders whose service to the community as we come up to 2020 will be so significant.”

On Saturday evening, the Americans enjoyed a prayer and worship service held at Plymouth Christian Centre.

Around 100 people, young and older, heard from keynote speakers and prayed for Mayflower 400 and the issues it represents.

Dr Jehle gave some encouragement to the youth of Plymouth: “The history of the UK has affected so many nations, especially the US, and your future can be bigger than the past. By engaging with God and the civic and community celebrations you can affect the future for your children and grandchildren.”

The US delegation with Plymouth church leaders at the historic Prysten House

Jonathan deMaceo agreed: “This matters. Young people can really get involved. Everyone has a voice and has something to be heard. Every gift that we enjoy to speak freely is founded right here.”

Lord Mayor Councillor Dr John Mahony and US representative Dr Paul Jehle exchange gifts

The weekend was jointly hosted by Cross Rhythms 96.3fm community radio and Churches Together in Plymouth (CTiP).

Cross Rhythms station manager Dave Simpson said: “It’s exciting to see the spotlight on Plymouth. It’s not just a beautiful place to live; the city has huge historical significance and the pioneering nature of the Pilgrims is alive and well today.”

Rev Chris Clewer, chair of CTiP, which networks 120 churches of all denominations, said: “The awesome legacy of the Mayflower is still affecting us today.

“They changed the churches they left behind, helping to create a society where we have the freedom to choose our religious beliefs, which we enjoy today.”

The Plymouth Shopper

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• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 16 Plymouth Magic Circle Every second Thursday We are a small friendly Magic Club who meets every second Thursday at The Walrus, Athenaeum Street, Plymouth from 7pm to 9pm. All budding magicians are welcome to join us.

For details call Ian Marley on 07979 655018.

Be a nature explorer!

Make A Difference, Plymouth Fridays in term time Support group for parents or carers in Plymouth of children with disabilities or special additional needs either diagnosed or still going through the process. From 10am at Tamar View Community Resource Centre Barne Barton. Open to any parent or carer who can get to us. For further information please visit Make a Difference Plymouth on Facebook or call Kerry on 07599996389.

Exercise for Over 60s Tuesdays and Thursdays Life Centre Thursdays 1.30pm to 3pm in the Dance Studio.

Plymstock Tuesdays 9.30-10.30 and 10.45-11.45 Gentle exercises to music aimed at improving your core muscles and balance. Followed by a cuppa and time to chat and make new friends. For details call Bridget on 01752 408951.

Prince Rock Dog Training Club Puppies to adult classes, obedience training, socialisation.

St Matthias Church Hall on Monday and Tuesday evenings, from 7.15pm. More details phone 01752 772411.

Line Dancing Tuesday Evenings.

All levels, from beginner to advanced. 99 per cent country music. Very friendly club. Pennycross Methodist Church Hall, Beauchamp Rd Peverell Tel: Kathy 07780 931456.

Plymouth Hockey Club Sundays Plymouth Hockey Club is the oldest junior club in the city and has recently achieved the highest award for organisation and safeguarding. The club is operated by parents for all children and young people. The club trains every Sunday between 10am - 12 noon at Manadon Astro, off St Peter’s Road. The club cater for young people from 4-16 years and no previous experience is required. The first 6 weeks are free to new members and everyone who trains gets to play. For more information, please see the website at www.plymouthhockeyclub.org.uk or contact Rob on 07861 250682.

Plymouth Clarion Choir (Male Voice) Tuesdays Rehearsals between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Crownhill Methodist Church Hall. Seeking to fill vacancies in all sections. For details call Darell Jago on 01752 266434.

This year is the choir’s centenary.

Community Herb Clinic Tuesdays 1-3pm Onward House, Greenbank Road. Walk-in for free general health advice or phone for appointments. Herbal medicine can be used in the treatment of any medical condition in an effective, integrated (and affordable) way to suit you. Details Sara Hills 01752 872960 www.herbs-work. co.uk Off Key Singing Group Mondays For people who love to sing in the shower! Mondays 5.50pm to 6.50pm at Derriford Health & Leisure Centre, function room. Girl Guide Hut in Plympton 10.30am to 11.30am. Call 07770 683 314 for more info.

Jelly Tots Baby & Toddler Group Fridays 9.30am to 11 am at St Budeaux Baptist Church (during Term Time). £1.50 per Family www.stbudeauxbaptist.org.uk Plymouth Writers Circle Tuesdays Do you have a problem with plotting or characterisation.

The Plymouth Writers Circle meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 7pm to 9pm at the Plymstock Community Centre (except in the summer holidays).

Singing for the Brain Thursdays A singing programme to enable people with dementia to express themselves through music. Carers are welcome, with refreshments provided. The sessions are also supported by volunteers. Meet every Thursday between 2pm and 4pm at Catherine Street Baptist Church PL1 2AD. Call Tracey Rousell at Plymouth Alzheimers Society on 01752 608900 or Paul King 01752 608909 South West Chamber Choir Wednesdays Marjon Chapel 7.30 to 9.30 pm. We are a friendly auditioned choir of 25 to 30 singers specialising in unaccompanied singing, with a programme of madrigals, partsongs and sacred works. We give four concerts annually as well as a weekend of sung services at a cathedral each July. A reasonable standard of sight-reading is needed to join. We welcome enquiries. www.swcchoir.org.uk Tai Chi Beginners Classes Various dates Established in Plymouth since 1995. A friendly group covering all aspects of Tai Chi training for health and well being. Tai Chi is a gentle way to exercise and build strength. For those more keen, it is a complete form of body and mind martial arts system from ancient China suitable for all ages 5 to 95! To get more information, please drop into the class held every Tuesday 6.45pm at Mount Street Primary School, Greenbank, 18

The Plymouth Shopper

Beit Ezra Saturdays We are an informal group looking at the Jewish roots of Christianity and the place of the Jewish people and Israel today. We meet from 4pm to 5:30pm at Kinterbury House, Kinterbury St, Plymouth. For details see www.beit-ezra.org.il or email david@beit-ezra.org.il

The Filling Station, Yelverton Every fourth Friday Top up spiritually: we are not a church but an informal way of expressing the Christian faith at monthly meetings.

Everybody is welcome. Meet at Yelverton Golf Club Golf Links Rd, Yelverton at 7.30pm. For details visit www.thefillingstation. org.uk or contact Les and Di Wood 01822 854877.

Plymouth youngsters are being invited to be a nature explorer during the Easter school holidays.

The free activities are being organised by Stepping Stones and offer crafty, arty, edible family fun sessions in local woodlands.

All events run from 11am to 2pm and children must be accompanied by an adult. Event details and locations: Woodland Wood - Wednesday March 30. Meet at the entrance to the woods off Ringmore Way (opposite Knowle Battery play area). Contact Bex House on 07983 693798 steppingstones@plymouth.gov.uk Poole Farm - Thursday March 31. Plymbridge Road, Estover, PL6 8NF. Limited parking available. Contact Chris Avent on 07919 226942 derrifordcp@plymouth.gov.uk Efford Marsh - Friday April 1. Meet at the open space in Efford between Deer Park and Military Road. Contact James Roberts on 07847 392578 steppingstones@ or any other class advertised on www.wutan-plymouth.co.uk.

Tel. 07949 839088 Fitness and fun touch rugby Wednesdays Central Park Rugby Pitches 6.45pm-7.45pm OPM Rugby is the official Touch Rugby club for Plymouth. Come along and enjoy a great welcome. No rugby experience required.

Have fun, get fit and make new friends. More details phone Ernie on 07809 209571 or www.opmrugby.com.

Coffee Afternoon Thursdays Mainstone Community Centre hold a weekly coffee afternoon every Thursday at 2pm Regular events at the Crown Centre, Stonehouse Monday and Tuesday Basic Computer course 9.30am to 11.30am free; Tuesday Art for all: try out a new skill 10am to 12 noon Tuesday Coffee morning; Thursday morning Spreadsheets and other computer skills; Thursday 2.30pm to 4.30pm Brush up on English; Friday afternoon 1.30pm to 4pm Job Club; First Friday of the month 4.30pm to 6pm Messy Church.

Plymouth Squirrels Squirrels collect nuts. Sometimes these get out of control.

We collect things and have the same problem. Do you?

Perhaps we can help. We meet at 7pm at Pilgrim Church, St Levans Road. Easy Parking. Details 07752 351234 Devonport Park Community Choir Mondays A friendly mixed group of singers meet in the Pavilion Cafe in Devonport Park every Monday evening from 6-7.30pm.

Cost is £3 per session. No previous experience necessary.

For more details telephone 318087.

Harbour Centre Recovery Café Fridays Female-focused social group for those in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Tea, coffee, regular activities promoting independence, empowerment and positive social/support networks in recovery. Child-friendly.11am-2pm at Unit 2, 1st Floor, Hyde Park House, Mutley Plain. For more information and support to attend please contact Lynn McKenzie (Harbour Drug and Alcohol Services) on 01752 434299 or email lynn.mckenzie1@nhs.net Guitar Classes Guitar lessons for children aged from 6 - 12 years. Taught in small groups of 2 or 3. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 3.45 or 4.30pm Fridays at 4pm Saturdays between 9.30 - 4pm For more details Tel: 01752 216456. Classes held in the Woodford area.

plymouth.gov.uk Ham Woods - Sunday April 3 10am to 4pm. Xplorer basic orienteering. Meet at Ham House. Tuesday April 5 and Thursday April 7 10am to 4pm. Bird and bat box making.

Meet at Ham House. Contact Friends of Ham Wood on 07966 174277 info@hamwoods.org.uk Ernesettle Creek - Wednesday April 6. Meet by the footpath at Lakeside Drive/Tangmere Avenue. Contact Jemma Sharman on 07774 336624 steppingstones@ plymouth.gov.uk Southway Valley - Thursday April 7. Meet at the entrance at Pendeen Crescent by the miniature railway. Contact Bex House on 07983 693798 steppingstones@plymouth. gov.uk Kings Tamerton Woods - Friday April 8. Meet at entrance at the end of Priestley Avenue, beside St Budeaux Foundation School. Contact Bex House on 07983 693798 steppingstones@plymouth.gov.uk Soundhouse Brass and Soundhouse Youth Brass Academy Thursdays Want to play with one of the finest Brass Bands in Devon then why not come along and give us a try. We also have a thriving Youth Band for younger players which is supported

by Plymouth Youth Music Service. Both groups practice at The Soundhouse, Torbridge High School, Estover on Thursday evenings (Juniors 6p.m. to 7.30p.m. and Seniors 7.30-9.45p.m) Come along any evening, visit our website www.soundhousebrass.co.uk or ring Alan 01752844108 (Senior Band) or Garry 0744618977 (Youth Band) for further details.

Carers Support Group Last Tuesday of the month Are you a carer? Would you like somewhere to go for advice & info, to relax & unwind with other Carers? Come to our drop in session at St Budeaux Library 10am- 1pm on the last Tuesday of the month.

Watercolour Art Sessions for Adults Thursdays Beginner and experienced artists welcome. Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre Thursdays 10am to 12 noon.

The Burrator Inn, Dousland, nr Yelverton Tuesdays 10am to 12 noon. Easy car parking at both venues. For more information call Janet: Mobile: 07742 983311 Plymouth School of Aikido Non-profit well-respected community based Martial Arts club founded over 35 years ago. Classes at Woodview Learning Campus (off Lancaster Gardens, Whitleigh) on Mondays and Coombe Dean School, Elburton, Plymstock on Fridays. Times: 7- 8pm Juniors, 7-9pm Adults. Aikido is a Japanese Martial Art suitable for both Men and Women learning and working together. Enjoyable interesting, useful, physical, family-friendly activity with Child Safeguarded/ DBS Nationally qualified Instructors leading to recognised gradings appropriate for students of all ages 7yrs to 70yrs.

Fees with concessions; excellent value. Quality equipment including clothing available for purchase at non-profit prices.

Checkout www.plymouthaikido.co.uk or Facebook Page.

Contact Tre or David Worsley 403325, or Phil Smith 219355 for more information.

CoGS Kids Club Wednesdays in term time For primary age children at the Church Hall of The Good Shepherd, Marine Rd, Oreston at 3.30pm. Games, cookery. craft, stories, films. For details contact Steve on 213358 or Sue on 480568.

Stay & Play Toddler Group Wednesday mornings during term time St Mary’s Church Pre-School, St Mary’s Church Parish Centre, Market Road, Plympton. 9.15am to 11.15am. Group is run by friendly and experienced early years practitioners from St Mary’s Church pre-school that was given an overall Outstanding outcome by Ofsted (July 2011). New and expectant parents welcome. A one-off donation per week to cover costs of £1.50 per adults (children under 12 months) £2 per adult (children over 12 months). Includes refreshments. Telephone 01752 348525 Mobile No: 07527 734990.

Classique Dance Studios Based in Stoke we have classes available for all ages starting from three years old in ballet, jazz, musical theatre, cheer leading, and street dance. Classes run from Monday to Saturday. After February half term we are starting ‘A Day Of Dance’ every Saturday for children from 6 to10 years which includes musical theatre group, cheer leading, street dance, ballet and jazz classes from 10.30am-3.30pm.

Anyone interested in joining Classique Dance Studios or the new ‘Day Of Dance’ on Saturday’s please email classiquedancestudios2014@gmail.com www.classiquedance-studios.com Adult Children of Alcoholics Meetings Tuesdays 6pm – 7.15pm. St Barnabas Church, The Lounge (enter by separate entrance to left of surgery), St Barnabas Terrace, Pennycomequick, Plymouth PL1 5NN. Visit the website at www.adultchildrenofalcoholics.co.uk. National Phone 01590 610 936.

Penlee Local Art and Craft Group Wednesdays Meet at the Diggin It Meeting Room at Penlle from 12 noon until 2pm. All welcome. This is a group for all levels of artistic or craftworkers to make friends and socialise, exchange ideas and perhaps even organise local exhibitions. Small contribution to room hire needed depending on numbers. Please telephone Teresa if you are interested on 07955 476727.

Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group Second Thursday of the month The Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group aims to offer friendship and support to anyone who is affected by Lymphoma (Hodgkins or Non Hodgkins Disease), whether patient (past or present), carer, family member or friend, and meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Derriford Hospital Health and Leisure Centre from 3pm to 4.30 pm. For more information, please call Pam on 01752 785094 or Scott on 01752 661035 Plymouth Youth Cycling.

Various days Free coaching for 10-16 yr olds. Thursdays (mountain bikes) 5pm-6.30pm Life Centre and various locations across Plymouth; Wednesdays HMS Raleigh (road racing bikes).

We can teach you manuals and jumps and how to ride like the Tour de France winners. No fancy gear needed. Bike, helmet and a sense of adventure! For locations and times find us on Facebook.

Singing 4 Fun Thursdays 2pm - 3.30pm We welcome new members. St Pauls Church, Torridge Way, Efford from 2pm to 3.30pm. For more details contact Janette 07854 850830 Rainbow Singers Saturdays Come and join our happy band of rainbow singers sharing singing, fellowship and prayer. We meet at St Gabriel’s Church at 10.15 am most Saturdays. For more information please call 01752 262600

• continued on page 20

Important milestone for new country park

THE CHRIS COLE

Experience

Son shines at Easter...

With Spring in the air, hopefully it will put a spring in your step. Cheesy I know, but life has its ups and downs and we need to endeavour, through good will, to keep each other optimistic through some of life’s more challenging experiences.

Sunshine, and the hope of summer coming with holiday breaks, is often not far from our thoughts. When it comes to holidays, however, there are two major events for Christians which impact on all of society in the UK. Christmas and Easter are times of relaxation and often reflection. At the time of writing this article, Easter has come early this year.

On the reflection side of things within our culture, Easter focuses on the end of Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry through his trial, death and resurrection.

The proof of His resurrection wasn’t just an empty tomb, but the spiritual phenomenon of millions of people across the globe throughout the ages putting their personal faith, trust and reliance for their lives in Him.

“Father forgive them because they know not what they do”, Jesus declared on the cross. If you watch the film ‘Passion of the Christ’ you’ll soon recognise that we have often sanitised this event and you couldn’t get further from the Easter bunny and chocolate Easter eggs if you tried.

heart to open up and receive this amazing spiritual reality.

Holman Hunt’s famous painting, ‘The Light of the World’, pictures Christ holding a lamp, standing and knocking at a door covered in thistles (our spiritual hearts) without a door knob on the outside.

The assumption being that the door can only be answered from the inside as the light gives illumination about our personal lives.

Free will and choice are pre-requisites for genuine love. ‘Why are we here?’; ‘what is life all about anyway?’ and ‘what happens when we die?’ are profoundly intelligent questions.

The start to the process of answering these questions lies in a personal relationship with God in Christ for those individuals who have experienced Holman Hunt’s depiction of salvation. It truly is good news.

Personally, my worldview is quietly optimistic because the conviction of how I see life is built on a relationship with a person who I believe has demonstrated to millions through His life, example and influence that He has the answers to life’s deepest questions.

This doesn’t mean that we are unaware of the challenges facing us all, whether it is personal, family, local community, nationally or globally.

Denial isn’t a river in Egypt, but with a Christian worldview we understand the nature of evil and its impact upon the world, and we also have a hope in the One who has overcome the world and death and gives us all hope through the power of His Holy Spirit.

Recently the Lifelines newspaper focussed on the Queen’s ninetieth birthday and her personal Christian faith and Chris Cole, is the founder of Cross Rhythms charity. He is also a Fellow why she shares her faith to the of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). Listen to his Cross Rhythms nation every Christmas.

‘Whosoever believes in Jesus Christ has eternal life’, says the ancient scripture and this personal faith requires each

Experience programmes on 96.3FM or online at www.crossrhythms.co.uk/ plymouth. Also, download Cross Rhythms Plymouth app from Google Play and the Apple app store.

I enjoy the holidays and the sunshine, but when the clouds come I am confident that the Son is still shining above the clouds and the clouds will eventually give way to lovely days.

New LEAF for council’s vehicle fleet Six new electric cars have joined Plymouth City Council’s vehicle fleet as part of a two-year pilot, part-funded by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Poole Farm is being rejuvenated and there are plans for a campus offering courses including horticulture, countryside management and animal husbandry.

Other plans include new footpaths and cycle routes, new habitats, a community garden and an orchard for growing food for the farm shop and café.

Work has already started to manage the site with a small herd of cattle coming to graze the grassland areas in the very near future.

Councillor Mark Lowry said: “We are creating thousands of new homes and job opportunities in Derriford but it’s vital people have access to the great outdoors near their home.

“This land transfer will help us deliver this country park and forms part of our joint plans to improve public transport facilities at Derriford Hospital. It makes sound financial sense for these two public organisations to work together in this way.”

The public transport improvements at the hospital are estimated to cost just over £2 million and are funded by the Heart of the South West LEP and Plymouth City Council.

As well as reducing congestion outside the main entrance and making bus journeys to and from the hospital quicker and more reliable, the Derriford Hospital Interchange scheme will provide better waiting areas for bus and taxi passengers and those getting dropped off or picked up by car.

Plans are also progressing on the new link road between Forder Valley and Brest Road, creating a new route between Derriford and the A38 and vital extra capacity on the road network.

The Forder Valley Link Road will provide better access from the east, reduce pressure on Manadon roundabout and complement other transport improvements being made in the north of the city.

Together they are expected to cover around 72,000 miles each year, saving around £26,000 in fuel costs over the two years of the trial. There will also be savings on maintenance.

“If the trial goes well and the cost benefits are good

Plans for a community park have been in the pipeline since 2008. Last year the council announced an exciting partnership with Duchy College, as part of the Cornwall College Group, to create an ‘environmental education hub’ in the community park.

The first phase of housing development is already near completion at Palmerston Heights and the new £6.3 million St Matthew’s Church of England Primary School opened last September.

It is hoped the new cars will reduce carbon emissions by nearly 12 tonnes a year compared to their petrol or diesel equivalents.

“Not only have we been able to replace fleet vehicles that had reached their shelf-life much more cheaply but we can also find out what savings we can achieve using electric cars.

An executive decision has been signed to approve the acquisition of NHS Trust land at Bircham Valley, Derriford so that the nature reserve legally becomes part of the 140-hectare park.

Derriford has been earmarked as a key growth area for Plymouth with a new district centre, housing and employment proposed to be built over the next 20 years.

As well as forming part of the general fleet the 100 per cent electric, zero emission cars can also be booked out by staff travelling in and around the city on council business, reducing the number of mileage claims that are submitted.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Streetscene, said: “Thanks to the OLEV funding we secured, we are effectively leasing these cars at a quarter of the normal cost.

Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust is to transfer ownership of the entire Bircham Valley Nature Reserve to Plymouth City Council so that it can be part of the new Derriford Community Park.

Construction started in February and is programmed to take nine months.

The Nissan LEAF vehicles, leased from Vospers as part of the funding arrangement, are being trialled as pool cars to assess how much can be saved on fuel and maintenance costs, while reducing harmful carbon emissions.

The DfT’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) has awarded £112,500 towards the pilot through its Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) Readiness Project, with the Council contributing the remaining £37,500.

Another significant milestone on the road to create a huge country park in Plymouth has been made, thanks to an important land deal.

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Sophie Easter from Plymouth City Council, Steve Hancock EV specialist at Vospers and Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Streetscene

we will hopefully introduce more electric vehicles into our fleet. We are also exploring the use of hybrid technology.”

Steve Hancock, EV specialist at Vospers said: “We’re delighted to supply Plymouth City Council with a fleet of the latest technology in EV vehicles. The Nissan Leaf is zero emission electric which means that it’s environmental impact is significantly reduced compared to a conventional vehicle.”

The council has already installed charging points at its Ballard House, Midland House and Windsor House offices and Prince Rock Depot to support the introduction of electric fleet vehicles, alongside public points in the Regent Street, Theatre Royal and Western Approach car parks, all three park and ride sites, City College Plymouth, the Cumberland Centre and Derriford and Mount Gould Hospitals.

The Plymouth Shopper is a series of community newspapers distributed to 62,000 homes across the city on a monthly basis.

We welcome details of local stories, including success, awards, appointments and events.

Send your items by e-mail to: info@cornerstonevision.com

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19

First of three new community orchards planted in Honicknowle

The first of three new community orchards have been planted in Honicknowle.

When fully matured the orchards will offer open green spaces for people to enjoy, as well as free fruit to pick.

They will also feature a beautiful wildflower meadow within the orchard.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: “We’re absolutely passionate about making sure people have access to open green spaces and these orchards and their wildflower meadows will offer a beautiful tranquil space for people to enjoy in residential areas.

“One of the best parts of this whole scheme is the impact we have on our environment, as not only are we creating something for residents to enjoy we are also introducing even more wildflower meadows to the city that will help bees and insects to flourish.”

Over the next week three more orchards will be

planted at Central Park and Plympton Pathfields in the partnership between the City Council and Buglife.

These orchards will also offer people a unique opportunity to celebrate the life of a family pet by purchasing a five-year memorial plaque on a granite plinth.

The orchard project has been supported by Councillors Mark Lowry, Peter Smith, Dr John Mahoney, Mrs Patricia Nicholson and Martin Leaves, who have all donated money from their community grant funds.

Each Plymouth Councillor has an annual grant allocation of £3,500 to fund community activities and projects in their wards. They can combine their grants to fund one or more projects or various community activities, if they wish.

To find out more about green gifts please visitwww. plymouth.gov.uk/greengifts

Pictured right: Cllr Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Streetscene at the planting of a new community orchard

• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • Church Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston.

Visit www.

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts • continued from page 18 soundsmusicaltheatrecompany.co.uk for more information.

Broadway Organ Society Third Wednesday of the month Organ concerts held at Plymstock Community Centre, top of Broadway car park. Concerts start at 7.45pm. Everyone welcome.

Plymouth Musical Activities Club Thursdays A music group for young people aged 9-18 supported by volunteer staff members. At Pmac we teach flute, clarinet, drums, keyboards, singing and guitar. Meet every Thursday at Courtlands School in Eggbuckland from 7.15pm to 9.15pm. The charge is just £1 a week and people of all abilities are welcome. The group plays at lots of different venues and events throughout the year such as Devonport Playhouse, Lord Mayor’s day, Eden Project and many more.

If you are interested in joining please call our treasurer Angela fuller on 01752 773482 or check out the Pmac website www.plymouthmac.co.uk The Plymouth & District Egyptology Society First Saturday of the month We are a society of some 50 members whose passion is all things related to Ancient Egypt. Between the months of September of one year to May of the next, we meet on the first Saturday of each of those months, including Day Schools, and long weekend visits to UK and European cities to view Museum Egyptology Exhibitions, enjoying the local sights etc. The Society meets at the Swarthmore Centre on Mutley Plain. Timings 2 pm until 4.30 pm for a normal lecture. Contact Details: janis.naylor@aol.co.uk Exercise Classes Various days For over 60’s and less abled people. St Margaret Mary’s Roman Catholic Church Tuesdays 9.30am to 10.30am and 11am to 12 noon. Thursdays Life Centre 1.40pm-2.45pm.

New Extend Movement to Music classes for the less able Mondays at Miles Mitchell Village Hall 11am to 12 noon and Thursdays 2pm to 3pm at St Bartholmew’s Church Hall. Run

by Birgitta Whight. Contact 01752 408951.

Rainbow Group Tuesdays The group meets at Mount Gould Church from 4.45pm to 5.45pm for girls aged from five to six and a half. For more information contact 07913697767 Sequence Dancing for All Saturdays St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Hyde Park Peverell, 7.30pm to 10pm. With tea and biscuits. Everyone welcome.

Yankee Yoga Various days All abilities yoga classes set to sweet tunes. Tuesdays 5pm @ The Art of Dance (Mutley Plain) 8pm @ Coombe Dean School; Plymstock/Elburton; Wednesdays 6pm @ Merlin Fitness (Crownhill); Fridays 7.30pm Special Class - Yoga for Athletes @ Taurus Gym (Mutley Plain); Saturdays 10am Special Class:Yoga Sculpt @ Merlin Fitness (Crownhill).

Contact Emily on 07478 257080 Sounds Musical Theatre Company Wednesdays Founded in 1911, we are a friendly, diverse group of people who love Musical Theatre and produce two shows a year. In March/April we perform our annual full musical production, with a musical revue in October. Rehearsals are every Wednesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm in Oreston Methodist 20

The Plymouth Shopper

Singing for the Brain Mondays The Alzheimer’s Society hold Singing for the Brain on every Monday, ( not on Bank Holidays ) at the William Venton Centre, 8 Memory Lane, Plymstock. Do you enjoy singing?

Why not go along and increase your well being with our singing for the brain programme specifically designed for those living with dementia. Carers are welcome too. Join them every Monday between 2pm and 3.30pm.

Beckly Centre Regular events at the Beckly Centre at Mayers Way, Hooe Road, Plymstock include: Mondays 7pm to 9.30pm adult social group with a variety of activities including crafts, life skills, cooking quizzes bingo and outings; Thursdays 7pm to 9pm youth group providing social activities in a small friendship mixed ages and ability groups for young people with additional needs; Saturdays and Sundays 10.30am to 3.30pm weekend activity groups for mixed age and ability groups of children and young people with special needs offering good range of social and group opportunities; school holidays weekdays 10.30am to 3.30pm holiday playscheme activity sessions for small friendship groups of children and young people with special needs. For details call 01752 484433 or 07780 662391.

Contact and Conversation Tuesdays Every Tuesday at 2pm at St Barnabas Church, next to the doctor’s surgery off Stuart Road. Contact, conversation, tea and cakes. Everyone welcome, free to all.

Plymouth Meet Up Group First Tuesday of the month A social group for people with disabilities. Meets at Igrow Workspace 25 Phoenix Street from 4pm to 7pm for a chat and games and a short walk to the nearby Mount Pleasant pub for a meal. £2 for members and £3 for non-members.

For more information call David on 017523 268777.

Ford Park Cemetery Gardening Club Third Sunday of the month The Club meets outside the Visitor Centre at 11.30am and is always looking for new members. If you have a few hours spare, why not go along and join them.

Plympton Moving On Stroke Club Alternate Wednesdays Meet at The Rise, George Lane, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 1JL 10.30am to 12.30pm. There is a small charge to cover the rent of the room, and for refreshments £2 per person.

We tend to have a speaker one week, and an activity the next. Contacts Tony Stoneman 07834276371; Steve Sargent 07944691482; President Gloria Ward 01752 776978 and Chair Janine Capstack. Website www.pmosc. btck.co.uk Emmanuel Tea Break Fridays New members welcome to join our club for mainly over 60’s, meeting at Emmanuel Church Hall, Mannamead, on Fridays at 2pm. A varied programme of indoor activities and occasional trips out. For more details call Richard on 707894.

Sunday Sale Second Saturday of the month Book stall, games, refreshments and bric-a-brac sale, 2pm to 4pm Plymouth Unitarian Church, Notte Street, Plymouth.

All in aid of Alzheimer’s Society and CHICKS’.

Thursdays Tavy Lodge Scout Centre, off LissonGrove, Mutley. Contact 07527687804 or 9th21stplymouthscoutgroup@gmail. com 5-6pm Beavers; 6.15-7.30pm Cubs; 7.45 - 9.15pm Scouts. Open to young people from the ages of 6 to 14. Come along and join the winter adventures.

Reading Group Third Tuesday of the month Like reading? Like to share your views on books? We are a small friendly group who meet at Tothill Community Centre on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 10.30am for approximately 1 hour to discuss chosen books and swap other reading experiences. All new members will receive a very warm welcome. Please ring 01752 513197 for details.

Bumps & Babes Group Fridays Make new friends with other parents and parents-to-be.

A weekly group welcoming all parents, parents-to-be and carers held in Crownhill. Organised by NCT Plymouth and West Devon branch. Refreshments, chat and toys. £1 donation to the NCT Charity. More information Sally Hall 07702 738757 Community Coffee Morning Fridays 10am-12pm Enjoy delicious English and Romanian home made cakes, a great cup of tea or coffee, and of course, some good company. Everyone welcome. Ford Baptist Church, Alfred Road, Plymouth, PL2 1QB Self defence classes Small but well-respected martial arts club. Classes most nights of the week at St Mary the Virgin Church, Federation Road, Laira. Classes for children and adults.

For details visit www.budosocietymusashi.co.uk or call 07742 834366.

Plymstock & District Art Society (PANDAS) Pandas is a small friendly group of amateur painters meeting for two hours (7.30-9.30pm) every Wednesday fortnight at the Radford Family Centre, Plymstock.

Members paint and draw in all media and enjoy occasional demonstrations and models. We are not a teaching class but help each other and have programme of themed evenings. Each year our annual exhibition takes place in Plymstock Library. New members are always given a warm welcome so please contact the Secretary Colin (401018).

Lets Work It Out! Mondays Weekly drop-in at the Efford Youth and Community Centre (Blandford Road PL3 6HU). Friendly help and support for all ages and abilities in a relaxed environment Mondays 2-5pm.

Basic computer skills, job searching and CV/application writing, voluntary/work placements and training courses, benefits advice and free tea and coffee! Starting March 14. To find out more call Becky on 07933916513 or email letsworkitout@mail.com RAF Association (Plymouth Branch) The association are hoping this year to increase the membership of RAFA, that means approaching ex-members of the RAF and serving members. If any of you know of friends or relations who may wish to join please get in touch.

Branch committee meetings will be held as usual on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Dates for 2016 are Apr 27, May 25, June 22, July 27, Aug 24, Sep 28, Oct 26, Nov

23, and Dec 14, to which old and new members are invited, should they have any problems or wish to join up. Meetings are held at Raffles Club, Ermington Terrace, Mutley Plain, Plymouth at 6.30 pm. The AGM this year will be on Wednesday March 2, same venue at 6.30pm all welcome.

For further information please contact the branch secretary on 07722 338090 especially prospective new members.

South Devon Decorative & Fine Arts Society (SDDFAS) We are part of NADFAS, the National Association, and have over 250 members. We hold monthly evening lectures on a wide range of Arts topics, occasional morning lectures, Study Days, Tours, Visits and Concert visits.

We would be pleased to welcome some new members and introductory guest visits are available. Visit www. southdevondfas.org.uk for programme information and other details.

Plym Valley Branch of the British Sugarcraft Guild Third Monday of the month The group meets at at Norley Hall, 70-74 Plymstock Road, Plymstock. We are a friendly group of likeminded people of varying age and skill, from beginners to the very experienced. Forthcoming events March 21 Janet Pavey Cat-n-Hat (members £3 non members £5) Apr 18 TBC; May 16 AGm and flower demon by Yvonne Lamerton (£2/£4); June 20 Ann Pickard Bride & Groom (£4/£8); July 17 Carolyn Harvey Sunday workshop TBC; July 18 Carolyn Harvey Various sugarcraft techniques TBC. More information from secretary Ros Hawkins 408759.

Dartmoor Rambling Club Enjoy the countryside and get exercise by walking and talking with our club. As well as Dartmoor we walk the countryside and coast. Wednesday walks are 8 to 10 miles by public transport and also some weekend walks- eg. Buckland Monachorum, Lydford, Hemerdon Mine, Three Barrows, River Lynher. Call Russell 01752 266608 for more info.

Plymouth Morrismen Wednesdays Plymouth Morrisment are looking for new members for the coming season. They meet at the RAOB Club in North Hill at 8pm on Wednesdays. Everyone most welcome. Dances will be taught and by May you will be able to dance in public on our outings in the Plymouth area. In the summer we will also be going to France for their sea time festival, Tonbridge, Southhampton, Yeovil and Par. Visit the website at www.plymouthmorrismen.org.uk for details and the full programme. But best of all come and meet us there is a lot more to tell or call 01752 337564.

Central Park Dog Walkers Association Daily Meet at 10am and 2pm every day at the Golf Cafe near Plymouth Life Centre. Very friendly and informal. For help and advice for all ages.

SEND US YOUR NEWS...

The Plymouth Shopper is a series of community newspapers distributed to 62,000 homes across the city on a monthly basis.

We welcome details of local stories, including success, awards, appointments and events. Send your items by e-mail to: info@cornerstonevision.com

Are you a reputable business, reliable and trustworthy?

Do you look after your customers, but want to attract more?

Buy with Confidence will: • Promote your business • Give your customers confidence • Provide you with help and advice • Want to know more?

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trading.standards@plymouth.gov.uk

AERIALS AND TV REPAIRS SIGNAL AERIALS - Freeview specialist • TV & Video tuning • Multi room distribution • Wall mounting • Sky repairs • 16 Agaton Road, St Budeaux, Plymouth PL5 2EW Tel 01752 361858 Mob 07816 668675

BUILDERS T.CLARKE BUILDING & ROOFING Roofing & building maintenance contractors all jobs done from a slipped slate to house renovation.

Trading standards approved.

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• Bathroom Design & Planning • Kitchen Design & Planning • Installation Service • All Home Improvement Work Undertaken • Tiling • Electrics

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

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

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

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

TS CARPENTRY Kitchens • Roofs • Refurbishment • Doors • Windows • Bedrooms • Staircases • Floors • Decking • New Builds • Bathrooms • Extensions 263 Bampfield Way, Plymouth PL6 6SZ Tel: 01752 212042 Mob: 07813 115891

CLEANING SERVICES MAJESTIC CLEANING - CARPETS, RUGS, UPHOLSTERY

• Professionally Trained & Insured • Furniture Moved with Fast Drying Times • Approved by Trading Standards & Woolsafe • Sourced via Age UK • Advanced NCCA Member • Call for a FREE Survey Office: 01752 242899 Mobile: 07725 998818

ELECTRICIANS CTC ELECTRICAL SERVICES Domestic electrical work • Showers • Sockets • Security Lighting • No Job too Small 162 Holmwood Avenue, Plymouth PL9 9EX Tel 01752 405514 HYDE PARK ELECTRICAL LTD

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Unit 8, Darklake View, Plymouth PL6 7TL Tel 01752 250801 Mob 07891 909846 email hydeparkelectrical@yahoo.co.uk

STEVE ELECTRICAL Fully qualified and insured electrician • Free estimates/no call-out fees • all electrical work considered • Over 20 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business • NICEIC cert • Rewires • Certification for minor or major work • Very competitive prices/ high quality work. Will beat all other reasonable quotes • Call Steve 07894 208842

R.C. Electrical - Domestic/Commercial Ryan Cross - Fully qualified ‘Approved Electrician’ • ELECSA Approved Contractor • Fully Insured • • Over 14 years experience • FREE quotes • Lower overheads = Better prices for customers

07813195943

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FLOORING BWF Flooring

Specialist in Carpet • Vinyl Safety Flooring • Karndean 07966 421790 ben@bwf-flooring.co.uk www.bwf-flooring.co.uk Mike Dixon - All Floors All aspects of flooring preparation and installation Wood ~ Laminate ~ Tile/Ceramics ~ Carpet ~ Vinyl ~ Altro Nearly 20 years’ experience Local ~ Affordable ~ Reliable 07877359985 ~ 01752 518302 Find us on Facebook ‘Mike Dixon - All Floors’ for photos and reviews

GARAGE DOOR SERVICES PLYMPTON & SOUTH HAMS GARAGE DOORS – Local family business; repairs and servicing, new garage door installations, remote electric operators for new and existing doors, electric gate automation, electric/manual roller shutters.

Free estimates and surveys. Tel 01752 348488 www.psgdoors.co.uk

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING

Oasis Landscapes Offering a wide range of services for all you garden needs. From patios and stone walling to tree surgery and hedge trimming we provide everything you need!

• Patios and Walls • Stone Walling • Hedge Cutting • • Teracing and Fencing • Gardens cleared • • Design Service • Tree Surgery • Decking • Tel : 01752 946 526 mobile: 07486 058 597 email: info@oasissouthwest.co.uk Website: oasissouthwest.co.uk

LOCK SMITH All Hours Locksmith - 24 hr Locksmith • Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting • Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs • Replacement Glass • Free Quotes 17 Ivydale Road, Mutley, Plymouth, PL4 7DE Tel 01752 777844 Mob 07989 599969

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

Mob 07887587957 Office 01752212136

PAINTERS & DECORATORS A.S. DECORATING & MAINTENANCE Specialising in full room skims/decor • Maintenance • Repair • Plastering • Flooring • Tiling • Kitchen & Bathroom fitting 9 Hereford Road, Whitleigh, Ply. PL5 4HG Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129 Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk

PAINTER AND DECORATOR Offering a High Quality and Reliable Service in all aspects of Decorating Inside and Out Also Home improvement and Plumbing Service Call Martin for a free Quote on 07730414365

ERB PAINTING & DECORATING

• Wallpapering • All aspects of decorating internal & external • Plastering • All general maintenance undertaken • Friendly & reliable Tel: 01752 559753 Mob: 07796 961036 email: ellis@erbpaintinganddecorating.co.uk

PLASTERING MJB PLASTERING

• Internal & External • Reliable • Clean • High quality service at affordable prices Mat Bradley - Time served Tradesman Tel: 07716 728258 Home: 01752 211649 mjb-plastering@hotmail.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

VAT FREE PLUMBER

OFFERING OAP’s 20% DISCOUNT UNTIL 2017 Local, friendly & reliable. 30+ years experience.

Numerous references on request. 24/7 service.

Free quotes and advice. No job has ever been too small.

Clive Gavin and Son Plumbing and Heating 01752 959236 - 07803 320 755 B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job too small from tap washers to central heating systems. Free quotes gas safe registered. No call out charge, recommendations can be given. 07971572632 www.bw-plumbing.co.uk MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • • No job too small • 24 hour emergency call out • • Senior citizen discounts • Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429 T.R.B Heating - Trevor Bryant Full Heating Systems • Boiler Exchanges • Fire and Fireplace Installations • Complete Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation • Former British Gas Heating Installer • Gas Safe Registered Special offer on servicing boilers £50* *T&C Apply

0790 6706 799 www.trbheating.co.uk trbheating@live.co.uk

MOORHEAT

PLUMBING AND HEATING SOLUTIONS Boiler Upgrades & Repairs • Heating Installation Boiler Servicing £45 incl. VAT • Landlord Safety Certificates • No Call Out Charge Tel 01752 705042 Mob 07768 231106 Web www.moorheat.co.uk PINK PLUMBERS Fast, Friendly, Reliable and tidy service by your local FEMALE plumber.

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

A. PRITCHARD PLUMBING & HEATING

Gas Safe Registered • Boiler Changes • Central Heating Systems • All Plumbing Work • All Work Guaranteed Recommended and accredited installer of Ideal, Worcester and Vokera Boilers

Tel 01752 203354 Mob 07968 949558 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE For all you property maintenance needs and home improvements. Over 30 years experience. We offer honest advice and high standards of workmanship.

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ROOFING PAUL JOHNSON ROOFING & BUILDING

New roofs • Repairs • General Building work • Fascias • Guttering • All work guaranteed Competitive rates • FMB Award Winner

Tel 01752 364 466 Mob 07767 835879

pnjohnson@hotmail.co.uk www.pauljohnsonroofingplymouth.co.uk

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

45 Years experience in the building industry.

Tel: 01752 787708 Mob: 07977949898

DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

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

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

Call or email Neil for a free estimate 07543363225 • 01752216765 • devonshireroofing@live.co.uk

WASTE REMOVAL KSR Licensed Disposal REMOVAL OF WASTE Cheap rates for OAPs, Scrap Metal Cleared For a FREE Estimate, CALL Kevin: 07810 450940 WINDOWS & DOORS RESOLVE PVC Door & Window Repairs

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Handles, Hinges, Mechanisms, Letterboxes, Seals, Panels, Cat flaps Let us “RESOLVE” the problem for you!

Free Estimates, Friendly Service Call 0787 204 1114 Email: Mark@Resolvepropertymaintenance.co.uk

DAVE LORD WINDOWS AND DOORS Windows, doors and conservatories. Established 1991. Member UK Trades Confederation and Certas Home Pro Insurance Back Guarantee.

257 Old Laira Road, Laira, Plymouth PL3 6DG. Tel 01752 221567 Mob 07714 329129 Email: lordy22@hotmail.co.uk

Please mention Dial the Experts when calling one of these advertisers Interested in advertising in Dial The Experts?

Call Tendai at 01752 225623 or email tendai@cornerstonevision.com

The Plymouth Shopper

21

First students receive their employability passport awards Three Plymouth students are the first in the city to receive their employability passport awards.

The three successful students pictured with council leader Tudor Evans

New allotments officially opened

After months of hard work a forgotten piece of scrubland has been turned back into allotments and has welcomed its very first tenants.

The site on land at the back of Channel Park Avenue in Efford has been brought back into use as part of a Community Landshare Scheme.

It’s been a real community project as it has been designed taking into consideration the needs of the community members who have a plot on the site so that they take ownership of the day to day running of the site from the very beginning.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for

r ppe n Sho etitio mp for Co nner y i W bruar Fe

Streetscene said: “This really has been a fantastic project which has brought the whole community together. “ One of our pledges in 2014 was to encourage the use of unused land around the city to grow crops fruit and vegetables and I’m really pleased to see all the hard work has paid off and people are now enjoying this outdoor space.

Another site at Lower Swarthmore in Central Pak will be opening next month. Providing 50 plots, a community hut, community orchard and toilet, and will become part of the already established Swarthmore Allotment Association for the day to day running of the site and it’s future links with the local community.

To find out more about Plymouth’s allotments visit www. plymouth.gov.uk/allotments

The passports, which were rolled out across city schools last year, give employers more information about students other than just their qualifications, including attitude, punctuality and communication skills. Developed by schools working in partnership with Plymouth City Council, they are also embraced by local businesses that recognise its value to provide better opportunities to create smooth transitions into future employment.

The three schools involved in the pilot project have now awarded pupils who are the first to achieve success.

Fourteen year old Jessica Budd from Plymouth High School for Girls was presented with a Gold Award and said: “Having goals to work towards has motivated me to volunteer, look for various work experience placements, and participate in School Clubs and generally to become more involved. I think that the skills I have developed through completing the Employability Passport have made me more employable as I have developed the confidence to try new things.”

Sixteen year old Oliver Priestley from Eggbuckland Community College has achieved a Bronze Award and sixteen year old James O’Connell was the first of four students at Devonport High School for Boys to receive a

Silver Award. He said: “The Employability Passport has been really useful because it has recognised things I’ve already been doing and has also helped me gain vital skills needed for my future career. I have found speaking to large groups a problem before, but through the motivation the passport gave me I have been able to talk to employers and also teach some lessons to younger students at my school.”

Sue Moreton the IAG Co-ordinator from Devonport High School for Boys agreed and said: “I am delighted to see students being recognised and rewarded for developing these vital skills – not “soft” skills, but significant; substantial; serious skills.”

Leader of Plymouth City Council Tudor Evans said: “Congratulations to Jessica, Oliver and James for being the first students to complete their employability passports. I’m absolutely passionate that all our young people achieve the best in life, so it’s really important that they not only have good academic qualifications but they are also able to demonstrate some important life skills like organising, managing time and problem solving for potential employers as well.”

The whole project helps embed work skills into the curriculum through real life projects and work placements and greater engagement between businesses and schools. This then demonstrates to prospective employers, or Higher Education providers, the work and employability skills that students have gained. The Passport has three levels of awards, bronze, silver and gold depending on levels of achievement.

“Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.”

Congratulations to Miss Karina Vettorel (online entry) of Haystone Place, Plymouth PL1 5DU who was the winner of the Majestic Cleaning competition which appeared in our February edition. She won a carpet and upholstery clean.

Psalm 2:12

Post your job vacancy here

Each month we offer local businesses, charities and other organisations the chance to advertise their positions totally FREE of charge. The Community Job Shop feature is only available to advertise part-time and voluntary posts and must contain no more than 50 words including contact details. Please note that all advertisements must be submitted with a full name and address for verification purposes.

CLEANER - Cleaner wanted to clean lovely holiday properties. £7.60 an hour, 12 hours plus as season progresses. Join a happy friendly team. Call Christine on 07941908677 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - Plymouth and West Devon Branch of the National Childbirth Trust are seeking volunteer committee members, specifically a new branch secretary, treasurer and membership secretary. You can get involved as much or as little as you like, but need to be able to commit a minimum of 2-4 hours every 4-6 weeks to attend meetings. Support will be given. For more information, please contact Linda Ludlow, branch co-ordinator, PlymouthAndWestDevon@nct.org.uk or look at our website www.nct.org.uk/Plymouth VOLUNTEER GARDENERS - The Royal Naval Preschool Learning Organisation is a local charity operating seven Jack and Jills Childcare settings around the city and Torpoint and is looking for volunteer gardeners to help children and staff learn about growing vegetables and flowers in the play and outside areas. If you can spare a couple of hours a week and some gardening knowledge then please contact 01752 788 345 extn 1 & 2 for more details. All volunteers will be vetted and undertake a DBS check for the purposes of safeguarding.

VOLUNTEER TRUSTEES – The Royal Naval Preschool Learning Organsiation a local charity operating multi childcare sites in the Plymouth and S.E. Cornwall area is looking for volunteers to expand the board of trustees .

Any interested parties please contact 01752 788345 extn 1& 2.

CLEANER - Domestic cleaner/housekeeper required.

Join a friendly team. Employed. P/t only. Up to 14 hours

per week. Experience and car essential. Police checks. Tel 369933 for more details.

SELF EMPLOYED HAIRDRESSER – For two days a week - Thursday 9 - 5 and Saturday 9 - 4. Shape Hair salon, Higher Compton. The telephone number to contact is 01752 771100 between 9-5pm.

HOME HELPERS/CLEANERS – Wanted for Plymouth and surrounding areas. DBS/CRB and own car preferable, good rates of pay. Call Louise or Naomi on 01752 319981.

BEAUTY THERAPIST – We are looking for an experienced, fully qualified beauty therapist to join our team.

Hours, pay & conditions will be discussed at interview.

Part or full time hours. Only fully qualified with at least five years beauty therapist experience are sought. Please call 07866447795. Confidentially guaranteed EXPERIENCED BARBER/HAIRDRESSER - Required to work in well established, busy city barbers shop on Mutley Plain. The successful applicant will be required to work on a self employed basis for five days a week to include some weekends. Please contact Gary on 01752 252447 if interested.

VOLUNTEER - Handy person needed by charitable disabled children’s group in Plymstock to generally help with maintenance of equipment, some decorating, gardening, minor repairs to premises One or two sessions per month to be mutually arranged, Bus fares covered and DBS check. Contact Beckly Centre on 01752 484433 VOLUNTEER - Plymouth Natural Health & Healing Centre is looking for a part time Volunteer Receptionist at

the centre at Outland Road. No experience is necessary, training will be given, travel expenses will be paid. If you are interested please contact the chairman on 01752210279.

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED – Cornerstone Vision, publishers of The Plymouth Shopper, are looking for new distributors, to help deliver leaflets across the city and surrounding area. Transport an advantage, own phone number essential. We are particualrly looking for people to help cover Efford, Ernesettle, Saltash, Ivybridge and Torpoint, although other areas maybe available. Please email Tim@cornerstonevision.com or call 225623 DRIVER REQUIRED - Early morning weekend Driver required. Sorting and delivering papers and paper rounds drop off. 5 hours per day. Own vehicle required.

Would suit fit retired person. For more information contact Elburton News 403871 NATURE CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS - Required to help plant trees to create native woodland on and around Dartmoor. Moor Trees run a minibus every Sunday from Mutley Plain. Pick up point is opposite 89 Houndiscombe Road 9.45am on Sundays. No experience is needed and we provide tools, training, tea, coffee and cake. Please contact us on 0845 456 9803 or visit our website www.moortrees.org for more information.

VOLUNTEERS -YMCA Plymouth requires volunteers for minor repair work, grounds work and coffee bar assistants.

If you feel you have the skills relating to these roles and can spare us some time please contact Vic Hibbert, HR Manager on 01752-761004 or e mail vic.h@ymcaplymouth.org.uk

Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop

VOLUNTEERS - The Landmark Trust is looking to recruit volunteers to assist with ongoing conservation work at historic Crownhill Fort. If you enjoy gardening or DIY, and can commit one day a week we would love to hear from you.

Call 01752 793754 or email info@crownhillfort.co.uk CLEANERS FOR PRE-VETTED PRIVATE HOMES – You choose how many hours a week you want to work between 10 and 20 and who you’re happy to work for. If you are mature, have good references and preferably a car and DBS (police check), we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Marc on 01752 395595.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – Memory Matters SW, dedicated to improving the lives of those living with dementia needs volunteers to support craft activities, games, making tea , socialising and generally helping members have fun. Plymouth Activity day clubs run on Mondays and Fridays 10-4.If you can spare some time please contact us on 01752 692264 or kate@ memorymatterssw.co.uk or visit www.memorymatterssw.co.uk TIMEBANKING - With timebanking you volunteer your time when and how you want. Do a small job for someone, earn time in the bank. Use that time to have something done for you or gift the credit to someone else. It’s safely sharing your time and talents locally:penny@timebanksw.org.uk 01752 395131 www.timebanksw.org VOLUNTEER DOG LOVERS - Would you like to look after a dog for a week or two? Dog lovers wanted to care for nice dogs whilst owners are away. This is not a job but a very rewarding hobby contact Jennifer,Terry or Carolyn on 01752 769453

All local businesses, voluntary groups, and individuals organisations and groups are invited to post their job vacancies in our Community Job Shop feature. This must be for part-time and voluntary jobs only and should contain no more than 50 words, including contact details. All you have to do is send the details via e-mail to info@cornerstonevision.com Deadline for each issue is the 10th of the month prior. We are happy to publicise vacancies FREE for up to three months.

22

The Plymouth Shopper

Matthew scoops top award The winner of Plymouth’s first construction apprentice of the year is Matthew Evans from Whitleigh. His success was announced at the recent Building Plymouth Apprenticeship jobs fair in the city.

trained Plymouth Apprentice Ambassadors.

Leader of Plymouth City Council Tudor Evans presented Matthew Evans with the award, to acknowledge and celebrate his exceptional contribution to the workplace, and to recognise his commitment to the apprenticeship experience as whole.

Cllr Evans said: “I congratulate Matthew on being recognised as Plymouth’s top apprentice in construction and our first ever winner.

Not only is this award a celebration of our apprentices’ achievements, it also recognises the real importance of the construction and built environment to our city.

Matthew is completing his Level 2 trowel occupations with Elmes Construction and City College Plymouth. He is also one of the newly

Lizzy Berna, undertaking a higher level professional apprenticeship with AECOM and City College Plymouth, and Liam Willsher, who has undertaken a Level 2 and 3 in plastering with Zibest Plastering and Building Contractors and the Skills Group, were also highly commended finalists.

“This council is working extremely hard for our city by investing in construction jobs

with real prospects for local people. The diverse nominations received are a fantastic reflection of the high calibre of apprentices working within our city, and we know demand is growing from industry for even more apprenticeships in this exciting sector”.

This new annual award is officially known as the Ron Simmonds Construction Apprentice of the Year Cup. Ron was a former Alderman and Mayor of the city and trained as an apprentice bricklayer, the award pays tribute to the contribution he made to Plymouth.

Mr Simmonds’ family and friends were also there at the presentation ceremony to celebrate this success.

Visit www.buildingplymouth.co.uk for more information.

Jordan nominated for fourth award A hardworking apprentice from Plymouth has been put forward for an educational award, just months after receiving national recognition for his dedication to learning.

Jordan Brown, who lives in Whitleigh, was named as Barratt Homes’ top apprentice in the UK in December, having taken both the regional and divisional titles earlier this year.

Now he has been nominated by his employers for the Plymouth Apprentice of the Year award, which will mark his fourth commendation in a row if he wins.

Winner Matthew Evans pictured with council leader Tudor Evans

Jordan, who is currently working on Barratt Homes’ PL2 development in Plymouth, said: “It’s an absolute honour to have been put forward for yet another award, particularly with it being National Apprenticeship Week this month.

“Winning the Barratt Homes apprentice of the year award was a brilliant feeling and just to be nominated for another one is a real bonus.”

Jordan, 20, started his carpentry and joinery apprenticeship with Barratt Homes just over a year ago, having been inspired to take up the trade by his grandfather.

“I’ve had a chance to try so many things during my apprenticeship and every day is different.

“I go to college one day a week and get training on the job from my mentor and it’s good to learn from the guys that have been doing it for decades.”

Reflecting on what advice he’d give aspiring apprentices he said: “Be persistent and don’t give up.

“Apprenticeships are really popular so competition will be tough for places but work hard, get your CV right and keep going until you get your dream job.”

Jordan Brown with Barratt chief executive David Thomas

PART TIME, SELF EMPLOYED JOB VACANCIES DISTRIBUTOR JOBS AVAILABLE LOOKING TO EARN SOME MONEY SO YOU CAN CELEBRATE ST. GEORGE’S DAY IN STYLE? PERHAPS TO HAVE SOME EXTRA £’s FOR YOUR LONG WEEKEND OVER MAYDAY? THEN EARN SOME £’s WITH CORNERSTONE VISION!

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IF EITHER OF THESE JOBS INTEREST YOU CONTACT TIM on 01752 225623 or tim@cornerstonevision.com www.cornerstonevision.com @CornerstoneVis

Since 1985

Cornerstone Vison 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY The Plymouth Shopper

23

Seven editions reaching 63,750 homes

Royal recognition for sporting volunteer A sporting volunteer from Stoke who devotes his free time away from his studies to coach and inspire others in sport, has been rewarded with a national award presented by Prince Michael of Kent.

It said: “Macauley runs after school clubs, summer holiday camps, as well as working with the educational school departments in Plymouth to help with the delivery aspects of the curriculum. From 2011 to 2012, he spent 111 hours volunteering to develop the after-school football

Sam Dyer is one of 13 volunteers picked from across the country for the three-week project run

by StreetGames, a national sports charity helping disadvantaged communities.

Sam, a Level 3 Sport & Leisure Apprentice with Plymouth-based Skills Group, will be teaching English and coaching various sports to deprived youngsters living in the favelas.

Sam was specially selected due to his work providing sporting activities for young people and adults at Hamoaze House in Plymouth.

Apprentice Sam to work with youngsters in Rio’s slums for his work at Hamoaze House.

Barry Mountstevens from Plymouth City Council’s Sports Development Unit nominated Sam for the StreetGames volunteer project.

He said: “Sam’s enthusiasm for sport and his passion for changing young people’s lives is fantastic to see, and is why Plymouth City Council nominated him to go with StreetGames to Rio during the Olympics.

He also supports the Hamoaze House youth club and in 2014 took seven youngsters, who had never left Plymouth, camping to Glasgow to watch the Commonwealth Games.

Macauley Rickard, who is studying full time for a BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, earned his recognition from the Torch Trophy Trust – a charity which recognises and supports volunteers in sports and recreation across the UK. Macauley was nominated by AOC Sport and received his accolade at the Trust’s annual awards ceremony on Pall Mall in London. The citation to the Trust reflected Macauley’s commitment to sharing his love for sport to benefit primary and secondary school children.

An apprentice from Devonport has been selected to travel to Brazil during the Olympic Games to work with deprived youngsters living in Rio’s favela slums.

Macauley receives his award from Prince Michael of Kent

programme for a primary school and college, which he later continued in 2013.”

Currently, Macauley delivers weekly football sessions, as well as assisting with athletics and sports days. He has calculated that he has dedicated approximately 1,310 hours to volunteering and has never let his age and educational commitments stop him from supporting children, schools and local communities.

Torch Trophy Trust Chairman, Paul Dimond said: “Macauley epitomises the spirit of the Trust’s aims in recognising outstanding volunteers.

His tremendous work to support younger members of the community is deserving of the highest possible praise. Every year, the Torch Trophy Trust Awards reveal outstanding people whose selfless commitment has made a major difference.

Without doubt, Macauley is one of those people.”

The 24-year-old said: “I feel hugely grateful to have this opportunity and have very mixed emotions. While I’m very excited about what lies ahead at the same time I’m nervous, but it will be a great experience.

“I’ll be visiting the deprived areas in Rio and helping young people who are exposed to drugs, crime and violence. We are aiming to give them something positive in their lives like this fantastic sporting event, which will be held in the heart of the city. It will be amazing to see the difference in culture and share experiences with people in a different part of the world.”

Sam was nominated to go to Brazil by Plymouth City Council’s Sports Development Unit after being crowned Active Devon Young Sports Coach of the Year in 2014

“He will help StreetGames create a lasting legacy in Rio by providing sports equipment coaching, resources and teaching children how to speak English.

Sam will gain a lot from this experience and it’ll open his eyes to different cultural lifestyles.”

Mark Boulting, managing director of Skills Group, said: “It is fantastic to see how Sam’s apprenticeship scheme has given him the skills to go on and do something as worthwhile and memorable as this.

“We really do wish him every success with this great opportunity, and will be supporting him further by making a donation to his JustGiving page.”

Sam needs to raise £2,000 for the project, which runs from August 17 to September 7, and has set up a JustGiving page to help raise funds. If you would like to support Sam, log on to www.justgiving.com/Sam-Dyer1/

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